New Life

This morning, as I enjoy my sweet and growing toddler (who seems to be accomplishing something new and exciting every minute), my mind wanders to when she was born. This is partially because I'm excited about our son Aaron joining us in May and because my cousin just welcomed his first baby, a daughter, into the world last night. I am so excited for them. She's healthy and they are about to enter into the biggest, scariest, and most joy filled adventure. I don't consider myself an expert after a short 19 months on the journey, but I do take hold of the many blessings I've encountered and the lessons I've learned. I think about how quickly one changes in the first year of life and how many advances they make. I hope that I am changing that much in my life and still making advances toward the goal...becoming more like Christ and affecting the world for His glory. Sophie has affected my life so much, turned it inside out. I know Emily will do this for my cousin and his wife. I also know as followers of Christ, we are supposed to do this in the world we live in.

So, dear friends, go out today and turn the world upside down...doing good and affecting everyone around you for the glory of the Heavenly Father. Enjoy the miracle of life and how exciting change can be.

The Curtains cover a multitude of sins...

Whenever Sophie is doing something she knows is wrong, she hides behind the curtain to do it...I think she still thinks I have no clue.

Can't we go anywhere?!

So, the past few days we've been at home because Sophie has been teething and not feeling like herself. She understands that she doesn't feel well, but not that it should keep her at home. Several times a day she's been saying "bye bye momma" and going to the door. Today, she went straight for the backpack...maybe then Momma would get the hint! In the end, she settled for watching cartoons with her pack.

Sophie and her Pony

Wonderful days...

My parents were able to come down for the day on Friday and it was perfect weather to take Sophie to the park. We had so much fun with the sunny treat and Sophie had a wonderful time showing off and playing with Poppy and Grammy! I am so thankful that Josh's and my parents are close and involved. They may be tired after spending a day with Sophie, but all have fun. These are the kind of days that make Sophie believe everyone is around to watch or entertain her! For a couple more months at least, right? You wouldn't know from the picture of me, and baby Aaron, that I still have 2 months!

Maybe Sophie won't be in charge of baby brother when he comes...

Good Days

We're having so much fun with Sophie these days. It seems as if overnight she has become a "big girl!" I love how many discoveries she makes and how I can see her brain putting pieces of life together. I love our girl. Here are some fun pictures of around...


Busy....


Learning how to be a sister...so nurturing.
Feeding and helping baby look out the window.


Driving baby around the house...
we'll probably have to watch her with baby Aaron...very closely!


More window watching.