Beach day......F I N A L L Y

SO sick of rainy days!!

When I left for work this morning.....this is what everyone was doing. AFTER my run mind you! This mama is motivated! Myron and Brennan on MY bed, on the computer.

Nathan STILL in bed on his gameboy.....
Malan.....transfixed by the cartoons on television. I know I know.....but it's NOT summer, or is it?
and.....Rylan.....lying on the sofa.
I really wish I could bring my sweet little Mae to work with me. She is all smiles and energy.
I have been helping a friend by taking care of her 91 year old great aunt. It's work....

It's work away from my children, which is the hardest part. Shane is starting to appreciate just how hard it is being home. Yes, he is at home for the time being, until an opportunity to rent a room from someone comes up. We appreciate all your support and prayers through this transitional time in our lives. Everyone is happy, well adjusted and very loved.

Running.....flowering, etc.

We haven't had too many days of sunshine, here, in the Pacific northwest. When we do, I spend extra time outside to get some color. For the last month, I have been nearly (sometimes over) 4 miles a day. I have lost nearly 30 lbs and feel fantastic. It takes me about an hour to do my loop. I have to stop and walk sometimes, but I can feel the healthy changes taking place in my body. I love that endorphin boost!

Mae and I planted a little flower garden for her. She loves to go out and water them every day.

Okay, that's it for now.....

Everyone is doing great....

No really...if you know our current circumstances, then you are wondering.

We are doing fantastic considering. Shane and I are still friends and the kids are healthy, happy, and wise...

xo

While the boys are away.....

Well....the big boys at least. Mae and Rylan had fun in their respective boxes and Mae played dress up...

It was such a nice break from the constant loudness of summer...

Happy Birthday Mae!

I can't believe she is 4 years old!! The time just flew by. Mae is the most loving, kind, sweet, little girl I have ever met. She is everything I always dreamed a little girl would be.

I am one lucky mother. Of course MY present to her is wooden.
But which did she prefer? Ooooh....daddys present of Polly Pockets. Have mercy....
"What? I can put my fingers in the cake"?? She was already spaghetti'd up aka filthy from dinner so why not?
Happy Birthday princess. You are a joy...

Passion Project- 6th Grade

Surprise surprise....Brennan chose Los Angeles for his Passion project. Ever since we went to California the kids have been nonstop talking about it. They have chosen it for many school assignments/projects since our vacation! Brennan worked very hard on his and we brought in some authentic Californian food tonight. Mexican! When he asked me what kind of food to bring in, to represent California, and I answered Mexican, he looked hurt and said "Mom, that's pretty racist"...:) I had to smile and explain to him the whole "this land was their land" speech.

It was a great night with fun foods from around the world. Brennan is our third child to have Ms. Atkinson and I am sure not our last.