ARMY

This is why I love little boys:

These two got dressed up to save the world from bad guys and to have lunch together outside under a tree!

I think it was Nick's two best buddies (& brothers) who have kept the "army" thing alive so long in our house. Their dad is a B-1 Bomber pilot serving overseas so they are all things military and have taught my boys a thing or two about survival!

MOVIE NITE

Tonight Nick and Livi and I went on a little date to the movies. They have been dying to see Monsters vs Aliens in 3D so that is what we saw, complete with popcorn and soda and candy. Isn't that the only way to see a movie? I don't even remember the last time we went to the movie theatre so we wanted to do it up right. It was so fun, sitting there with them as we tried to touch the images that jumped out of the screen at us! Nick was Mr. Chatty and talked throughout show while Liv was so enthralled that we could barely tear her away long enough for a potty break! It was a fun night. I love my little buddies.

MOTHER'S DAY

I love Mother's Day! The kids woke up early and were at the side of the bed bearing gifts just as I was opening my eyes. Nick actually ran in earlier to use our bathroom and on the way out whispered, "Happy Mother's Day!" The homemade cards, handpainted flower pot, gorgeous yellow tulips and yummy breakfast were just what this mommy needed. My family always makes me feel so special. Chris is so cute about helping the kids shop and cook and reminding them not to fight since "it's moms special day."

Today was extra special because my mom was here and we celebrated together. After my yummy breakfast, the kids and I made her breakfast and gave her the gifts and flowers we had for her. She is such a wonderful Mom and Grammie. Everything I am I learned from her. She is loving and generous and wise. She is smart and funny and has gone to the ends of the earth more than once to be at my side when I needed her. She knows me better than I know myself sometimes and I count her as one of my very best friends. I love you, Mom. Thanks for being the best mom in the world!
After church we came home and Chris grilled up a yummy dinner for all of us. He worked his heart out and it showed. He is getting to be a master in the kitchen. I may have to stop cooking all together! The kids and I watched a movie and napped while he cleaned up. Seriously, what a guy. I couldn't be the mom I am without his constant help and love!

I adore this little family. Every minute of every day, I think about them and want to be with them. My favorite time of the week is when we are all home together, talking and reading and having fun. My kids are beautiful and funny and full of life. They are so different from each other and I love it. I tell each one that they "are my favorite" because they are. I can't imagine my days without their smiles and whining and stories and tears. They are my life. And I wouldn't have it any other way.

One of the my most favorite photos of Nick

Liv and I at Girls Camp

Goof-ball Ben and I, stealing each other's gum

I WANT GA-POP!

Ben is learning how to stall. Every kid goes through it, at least in our house. Tonight he pulled out a doozie though, requesting my dad "Mr.-I-have-never-changed-a-diaper-ever" get him ready for bed. My dad was sweet to oblige...