Bittersweet

I know Evan is just being a goof in these pictures...trying to fit into little sister's blanket. But it really was the most bittersweet thing to see. It wasn't so long ago that he could fit into that blanket and even had a bit of room to spare. But today, even more than just realizing my little boy is growing up, you could see that he could tell he is growing up. And you can tell he is not quite sure how he feels about it.

The desire to be independent is there but the reluctance to get too far from Mom is still very strong. He tries so hard to be a brave big brother but you also see some jealousy creep up. He acts like a complete know-it-all, so wise in the ways of the world, but then you catch a glimpse of his uncertainty and his hope for reassurance. He goes from being frustrated that he isn't big enough to feeling even more frustrated that he is too big.

I know everyone is probably tired of hearing me say it...but I can not believe he starts Pre-K in just a few short weeks. Up until this point, my sole job was to keep Evan near and keep him safe. But I have always known that the bigger task was to teach him to grow up and get him ready for all those times that I won't be near.

I just can't believe I am already having to tackle that bigger job...

Fun in Dallas

The kiddos, Nana and I headed to the Children's Museum upon the recommendation of several of my friends. And it was a great choice. We spent several hours there and the kids loved every minute of it.

Road Trip

We are in Dallas for the weekend...and I have a feeling it is going to be a very rough trip. These are my bunk mates and their preferred sleeping positions:

Just another day...

Cousins!!

We got to have a nice little visit with Miss Lillian...love that little girl!!

No where to go...

but still ready. Just in case.

More Pool Time!

Let's Go Swimming!

This year, Bartlesville opened up a splash park just a couple of miles from our house. At first, I was hesitant to go with two little ones by myself. But it didn't take me long to realize that it was a great way to spend an afternoon and wear the kids out!

Evan loved going but was not interested in actually swimming. And he hated getting water in his eyes. When I noticed they were giving swimming lessons at the park, I signed Evan up. It was a disaster!! I made Matt take him the first day because I just KNEW it was going to be ugly. He cried, he screamed. He wouldn't try anything.

By the end of the second week, Evan was jumping in and going underwater like a champ!! I have to give the credit to his instructor, Ted. He had incredible patience with Evan and by the end of lessons, Ted was definitely a hero in Evan's eyes

Caught In The Act

Ninja vs Power Ranger

It's My Birthday!!

This year, Matt, Mom, Evan and Libby made sure I had an extra special birthday! It was such a fun day. I think they have all finally realized I LOVE to celebrate my birthday and they better jump on board.

The pretty cake:


Making my wish:


Evan woke me up that morning saying he was going to get me a special present that had a white stick and it was going to be on FIRE!


Libby helping me out:


Look what I got:




The absolute perfect card from the kid who tells me a hundred times a day that he loves me "this much"!


We followed the party with some shopping (however, jeans shopping is not a good idea when it is your birthday!) and dinner at one of my absolute favorites, Ti Amo.

What a great day...I loved turning 35!!

Cousins!!

We don't get to see her nearly enough...but we love our Lily!