Just Stand There

Marshall stood on his own today without hanging on to anything for balance.

Therapeutic Ducks

The past few days have been rough. All four of us have been sick for weeks and just can't seem to get over it - even with antibiotics. Marshall is on his third antibiotic for the same ear infection and the rest of us are battling sinus infections and general ickies. All of this boils down to no sleep, too much time stuck in the house, and lots of crabbiness.

On the verge of a mental breakdown, I got the kids ready this morning and headed out to the gym. Usually a good workout and a peaceful shower can clear up my mood. No luck today. This was a strong funk and the family was paying for it.

Late this afternoon, Brenna started talking about bicycles and on a whim I decided to dig out my bike and trailer. I bought a bike trailer to take Brenna biking with me almost two years ago and then found out I was pregnant, so it's been sitting in the garage collecting dust. Today was it's maiden voyage - and there couldn't have been a more perfect day for it!

I loaded both kids into the trailer not knowing what their reaction would be. They loved it! :) We took a quick ride to a nearby pond and watched the ducks. As I sat there on the sidewalk holding Marshall and watching Brenna talk to the ducks I knew this would be a memory I would treasure. A wonderful, calm, happiness came over me. Once again, the cherished moments always seem so simple and unplanned. We just need to take a deep breath and slow down.

Just a Minute, Sweetie

Lately when I've asked Brenna to do something, she responds in the sweetest little voice with "Just a minute, sweetie." it's all I can do to keep from cracking up.

A Year Ago Today

At this time exactly a year ago I was cuddling with my new baby boy in the hospital. I can't believe it has been a year already. This has been the fastest year of my life and time doesn't seem to be slowing down at all. It was a wonderful year, but part of me can't help but be sad that my babies are growing up so fast. I'm excited for the new phases to come and know that I will be forced to say goodbye to others. Every night at bedtime I hold and hug Brenna and Marshall because I know that there will be a day where they won't want me to... and I'm sure that day will come too soon.

In celebration of his birthday, Marshall began a new phase. He has always been a climber, but today I caught him scaling the stairs with Brenna. Both of them were giggling and crawling up the steps. By the time I realized it, he was already up to the landing. This boy has no fear. I'm afraid of the bumps and bruises we are going to see with him. Brenna was, and still is, so cautious. Marshall does not share that trait with his sister.

As much as I wish time would slow down, I do so enjoy watching Brenna and Marshall grow up together. You can tell already that they love each other. Marshall giggles so much with Brenna and Brenna tells me that he is her "favorite." They are starting to play together - when Brenna isn't yelling at him for touching her stuff. I'm sure both will continue for many years.

I can't imagine my life without both of my children. To be completely honest, this past year has been difficult with two small children, but I would not trade it for anything. Watching them together, hearing them giggle, seeing Brenna try to teach Marshall... it all makes the difficult times totally worth it.

A year ago...

Meeting Marshall

Kisses for her new brother

Cuddling with my baby boy

Today...

Happy Birthday Sweet Boy!

Brenna decorating a cupcake

Such a happy guy!

Time Out for an Adventure

I have so much to get done today and the tension just kept building all morning as I was trying to complete tasks. At noon I finally gave up and decided that we all just needed to get out of the house. I loaded both kids into the stroller and walked up to Chick-fil-a for lunch. This probably doesn't sound like much of an adventure to most people, but with two unpredictable children anything can be an adventure. Both kids made it through the 20 minute walk without any major meltdowns. We ate in the restaurant - which was a first (we usually just drive through). Brenna was fascinated by the indoor play structure and willingly choked down a piece of chicken to get to go play. After that, we ran a couple quick errands at the shopping center then headed toward home. One last stop at the neighborhood park to wear off any energy that may be left, and now we are all in bed for a late nap time. :) I'm glad I took the time out. It didn't help with my to do list, but our impromptu adventure was much more fun for everyone than my cleaning rampage in the house this morning.

Love is in the Air

Nights like tonight make up for all of the rough days. Brenna's sweet, nurturing personality was in full-force. Hugs, kisses, "I love you"s, and love pats were in generous supply. Marshall joined in by giving Brenna tons and tons of kisses - stopping to clap between each (his new skill that he is very proud of). In all, a very happy night.