Future Tatoo Artist

So the other day I assumed Levi was playing in the playroom with his brothers. I was in the living room and thought that everything was put away out of his reach. I didn't take into account that he would climb onto the antique roll top desk and get large markers and draw all over himself. This is life with Levi as a 2 year old. He's always full of surprises.

Silas at 10 Months

I can not believe that Silas is already 10 months old. He is definitely a joy to have in our family. Currently, Silas loves to pull up on things -- couches, chairs, and even doors. He's at such a fun curious age and can discover the smallest items left on the floor by his brothers. He still will not sit up. He prefers to sit on his knees. None of the other boys have done this, so I do find it a little unusual. He screams if I try to "encourage" him sit down. I think he just doesn't like to sit still. He will eat some homemade solid baby foods like pears, carrots, apples, and sweet potatoes, but he really prefers to handle things himself like crackers or fruit puffs. He reminds me of Josiah when it comes to eating who refused to be fed by spoon. He loves playing in the water. He is now in cloth diapers 100% of the time. I just couldn't resist the cow print diaper when I saw it. He's still nursing and has yet to figure out a sippy cup but thinks they are fun toys. I'm in no rush. He is definitely a mommy's boy. Some would probably say he is high maintenance. He just knows what he wants and has no problem expressing his needs. As long as his needs are being met (mommy holding him), he is a happy baby. I can't believe he will be 1 year old in 2 months! Time has gone by way too fast!

Levi's 2 Year Old Pics

Back in April, I had the boys' pictures taken. After taking a look at them, I couldn't decide which one I liked best for Levi's 2 year old picture. Caleb and Josiah both have pictures when they were 2 in the same overalls. I wanted something that looked similar to the other 2 boys but also showed Levi's personality. Kerry came to the rescue and took these pictures of Levi when we were on vacation. He took quite a few others. I'm still trying to decide which one I like best.

Vacation in Bonita Springs, FL

The day after Silas' dedication, my parents and the six of us left for vacation. We went to a place we had never been before, Bonita Springs, FL. We stayed at the Coconut Plantation which was perfect for families. They had so many things on site that the boys didn't seem to run out of things to do the entire time we were there: swimming, beach volleyball, ping pong, art activities, searching for beautiful seashells on the beach, and observing all of the wildlife like rabbits and alligators. Josiah loved the lazy river. Levi enjoyed the kid size pool. Caleb enjoyed the beach. And Silas enjoyed being held continuously all week. We were even able to squeeze in a couple of hours at the outlet mall on our way to the condo. I enjoyed having a full size kitchen so we could cook our own meals and the washer/dryer in the unit so that I could wash clothes and diapers. Thanks Nana and Granddad for a wonderful trip!

Caleb, Kerry, Levi, Josiah, and Granddad on the lazy river


Me and my 4 boys at the beach


Levi wasn't the biggest fan of the beach. He preferred hanging out under the umbrella.


Caleb checking out a shell he found.


Silas taking a nap on Mommy's lap.


Josiah enjoying rocking for a split second.


Caleb, Granddad, Levi, Nana, Silas, and Josiah

To the 2 Greatest Dads: Happy Father's Day!

Silas' Dedication: June 8, 2009

Silas was dedicated on Monday, June 8, 2009. Ever since having Levi's dedication at home in California, I knew I would want to have Silas' at home as well. We invited families in our church. We planned his dedication for the time my parents were going to be here. One of the things that made it so special is that my Dad had the honor of dedicating Silas, just like he did Levi. It concluded with a sweet prayer time for Silas. It was a special time that we will always treasure. By the way, Silas slept through almost all of it.

Caleb's Creatures

As most of you know, Caleb has a love for all of God's creatures, and he is especially passionate about reptiles and amphibians. He received a digital camera for his birthday from Nana and Granddad and he showed us some pictures that he had taken. We were quite impressed at his creativity for pictures which led us to talking about using the computer for his pictures which led us to let him start a blog to help document his passion. From a homeschooling mom's perspective, I think it's going to be great for his computer and writing skills. He will be closely supervised at all times meaning only when mom or dad is in the room with him. I'm excited to see where his creativity and love for animals takes him. You can view his blog here.

By the way, I uploaded his pictures tonight after he was asleep and couldn't resist posting this one.