Some cute kids

Happy Birthday Emily!

Emily finally reached the big seven. It seems like she's been waiting for so long - at least a year. But the big day came and now she is trying to come off the sugar and excitement high and go to sleep. Several of her friends came over after school for games and ice cream (because it was actually HOT today) and for the most part had a great time. 7 year olds can be pretty dramatic it seems, so there were some ups and downs, but it was fun. Emily received some money in some of her gifts which is perfect timing because we are trying to teach her about saving and were just looking into opening her own savings account. She thinks its pretty cool that the bank will give her more money for keeping money in an account. I don't know that she understands its a rather small percentage of that money. Anyway . . . We are just starting to see glimpses of what kind of person she will grow up to be. There are so many ways for a child to go in this world and so many things that can lead them astray. We know that the most important thing we can do is pray for them! We are praying that God will use Emily Joy greatly for His glory!

Bustling Around and Staying Busy

We've been on the go with all kinds of activities and projects lately. We've been working outside a lot as we continue to improve our yard and try to wrap up half completed projects from last year. We found a used play structure/swing set on craigslist and set that up for the kids. They are loving it! Emily is participating in spring soccer and was so excited to make a goal at her last game. All the girls on her team have a lot more soccer experience than she does so it was good to see her make a point. Ryan had just finished telling her he would get her a candy bar if she made a goal and she went right out there and scored. We couldn't believe it. Emily is also getting ready for her ballet recital. She had a dress rehearsal and pictures this last Saturday. Here she is in her costume. She is a "teacup" in Alice and Wonderland. This week is her birthday as well and she is so excited!

So Happy Together

I love these pics of Lila and Rylan together. This is in the morning when both Emily and Alaina were at school. When Alaina is home she and Lila are usually playing with dolls or ponies, but when she is gone Lila and Rylan are best friends!

Cousins and Friends

Just had to say THANK YOU, Amy for bringing yourself, Grandma, and Grace for a visit! It was a good time. Rylan was quite taken with his cousin, Grace. Now that I think about it I realize he hasn't played with someone his own size for probably as long as he can remember. Rylan enjoyed showing her his toys and they played very well together. Cousins and friends!

Signs of Spring

Spring has been slow in coming this year. The cold weather seems to be hanging on for an extra long time. Every once in awhile we get a sunny warm day and those are ones to treasure. This day we found some cute little flowers growing at the park. A sure sign of spring! Hurray!

lions and tigers and bears oh my!

We took a trip to the zoo at the end of last week. If you want details give Lila a call and she'll be happy to tell you all about the animals she saw. Hippos, zebras, giraffes, snakes, and the list goes on. Rylan even pet a goat! This picture was taken at the end of our trip which is why the kids are so droopy. They all slept well that night!