Welcome back!

Never thought my days would be so chock full of "fun and excitement" that I would lose the time to journal my life's journey. I find myself either doing laundry, dishes, cooking, cleaning, running errands, playing "driver" to Ian (who should have his license come December), bathing, reading, helping with homework, or just plain passed-out by 9pm. The life of a busy mom, right?! Oh, and I LOVE every last minute of it! How blessed I am to have 4 beautiful children and to be home with them at least 5 out of 7 days. Never did I imagine I would have the opportunity to be the mom I dreamed of :) Now don't get me wrong, it's not all fun and games. I have no clue how either of my grandmother's were able to maintain such order with 5 kids each! And let's remember, only one parent worked and they only had 1 car. Although if only Josh had the car I would probably be less busy since I wouldn't be able to drive anyone anywhere :) Oh...how sad Ian would be!

Ashlynn is growing by leaps and bounds weighing in at 16 lbs by 6 months! She is a hearty eater, mainly still just breast milk but I have started some fruit and veggies occasionally at meal time. She and I are taking a plane ride to NY in a few weeks to visit my family and celebrate my grandma's 90th birthday.

Abby started kindergarten and is the apple of our eye! She is doing fantastic and will be recognized as Character Kid of the Month for her class on Friday!! She is looking forward to going to the Celina pumpkin farm as a field trip :) She is also taking the CogAT test (for gifted and talented) next month.

Keara...well, she has shown me that without Abby's influence, she is one smart cookie and a well behaved little girl. A big helper to me during the day and loves to read and color. Of course, in the dirt or on a bike is really where she wants to spend all her time.

Ian is fairing well, struggling in a couple of his AP classes, but he is putting forth all of his effort. He's playing Running Back and OLB for the Varsity Football. Soccer will be next, starts up in January. Yea...34 degree games.

All in all, we are blessed. Life always comes with struggles, but I keep my eye on the prize and remember that my Heavenly Father will take care of my needs. The rest is just fluff.

Praise Him in all we do, give to those even less fortunate than we are. JOY. Jesus Others Yourself.