who knew

Who knew all the toys we put away years ago would provide an infant and a 3-year-old hours of entertainment together!

one

I am amazed to think it has already been a month.  Time is a funny thing with a newborn--sometimes it drags on and a day can feel like a week, and other times a day is gone in a flash.

Your wild hair is the topic of conversation most days.  It seems to define your little personality--calm and laid back with a little spunk here and there.  Little smiles at bath-time have begun to appear when your little body hits the warm water.  Sometimes, you sit and smile while examining the faucet and other times you just sleep during your nightly bath.  It is our favorite time of day...time with just you.

We are delighted to have you here with us no matter how busy it may be.

These things have been life-savers this month and I attribute them to a few good nights of sleep (knock on wood...I know it could change in a minute).

Fisher Price

This newborn cradle/rocker was loaned to us by a friend and it is amazing!  It allows the baby to sleep propped up, it rocks and it is super cozy feeling for the baby.  It works wonders for babies with a cold  and congestion.

Vicks Filter Free Humidifier

I love not having to worry about a filter on a humidifier.  This humidifier has helped a congested baby sleep and also makes wonderful white-noise.

Aden and Anais Muslin Swaddle Blankets

These swaddle blankets stretch and breathe which makes swaddling a bigger baby so much easier than using the flannel blankets.  They keep her swaddled tight all night!

Baby Bjorn

This lovely contraption helps at dinnertime when you want to be held but I need hands free to prepare our meal.  It holds you close and secure so that I can use both hands.

Overall the transition from 2 to 3 hasn't been bad.  I just feel like someone threw a third ball into my juggling act.  I am busier than I have ever been but it is a wonderfully good busy taking care of little souls.

My heart hasn't been happier!

first days

Well, we've made it halfway through the first week of school.  I think the rest of the house is more tired and worn out than the little student attending school.  Getting up before the sun to get everyone ready, lunch packed and breakfast made has us worn out {as soon as the bebe sleeps through the night, I am sure this will get easier}.

Our little student has had a super positive start to her year!  I am incredibly thankful for that.  I think that is most important for any school year--a good start makes for a great year.

On the second day, she was dropped off in the car line and bravely made her way into school.  This was big.  We had no idea what her reaction might be when she had to go alone.  Thankfully, many other children were doing the same thing so she didn't feel quite so alone.  I am grateful for her Daddy who has been dropping her off.  If I had to do it, I am sure I would sit there in tears as my little 5-year-old walked away.  His calmness and reassurance has been just what her sensitive little soul needs.

Each night, after everyone is tucked in and sound asleep, I take a deep breath and think, "whew, we made it through another day."

A new year...

“The kindergarten children are confident in spirit, infinite in resources, and eager to learn. Everything is still possible.”

-Robert Fulghum

Excitement mixed with a bit of apprehension fills her smile and nervous hands today.  

As we send her off we hope for a positive start to a new school, a new phase...a new chapter in our lives.  We are assured by all the loving teachers who deeply care about our children while they are away all day.  Hooray for first days and new beginnings!

with my sister...

Bless you, my darling, and remember you are always in the heart - oh tucked so close there is no chance of escape - of your sister.  ~Katherine Mansfield

I love the way these sisters are bonding through hair brushing, pretending to be the Momma and just plain old playing on the floor.  I hope these bonds will last a lifetime!

making someone's day...

I love this quote.  

Have you ever held onto that sweet note a friend wrote at just the right time,

 or remembered someone's kindness during a tough time?

Those little acts are so meaningful and will be cherished forever.

the highlight of our day...nature's tranquil morning

Cool morning air has recently graced our mornings and we race to get outside before the hot steam arrives with the sun.  Lately, these two are delighted to push their little sis in the stroller.  On this morning, we had a little kitty accompany us on our walk.  The bebe is calmed by the cool breeze and bumpy stroller ride.  We are happy to take advantage of the mornings together before we all go our separate ways in a few days when summer comes to a close.

{This Momma couldn't help but be a little sentimental about that...}