Cub Scout Blue & Gold Dinner

The Blue & Gold Dinner is when the boys move up to the next group. Noah is a Webelo II. Samantha & Megan helped direct traffic, serve food & cake.

Weights & Measures

A couple of days ago, Luke had his 9 month checkup and Faith had her 4 year check. Both kids are on target. I was able to answer yes to all the milestones, so I took that as a good sign.

Luke hasn't learned to use the sippy cup, which could prove to be a problem in the near future. He doesn't take a bottle either. He just wants to bite on the cup. I do not plan to breastfeed after he turns 1. He better learn soon or I'll be giving him fluids through a medicine dropper (not really anticipating this). So far, Luke's vocabulary is not as expansive as Samantha or Noah's at this age, but his smile reaches from ear to ear. He definitely likes to call Dad, Da da, etc. He rarely calls for mom, but I get the best hugs. Did I mention how much I love my little guy. He is soooo sweet!!

Faith often plays shy in new or uncomfortable places. When I took her to the doctor for her appointment, she would only talk to the nurse during the vision and hearing test. She did not say a word to the doctor. She has had the same doctor for over 3 years. She continues to be on the small side. I think she is in the 10th percentile for height. Faith had to get three shots. I was able to confirm that Faith really does have the largest crocodile tears that I have ever seen. She handled it like a champ, but those tears are enormous. I think Faith is pretty advanced in the technology category. Not that this is something the doctor asked about, but I had to share my amazement with her natural ability to operate cameras, computers, remotes, etc.. Pretty sad, when I have to ask my four year old for help.

Luke weighs 18 lbs 4 oz and is 28.5 inches.
Faith weighs 30 lbs 9 oz. and is 38 inches.

Luke and Wyatt Playing

Luke is 9 Months Old!

If You're Happy and You Know It
Look At Me Now
Do I look relaxed to you?

Luke continues to be a smiley and active little guy. We have nicknamed him Tigger, as he likes to bounce. I've tried to really enjoy the little things, which by the way are so huge. I love it when he has the grin that comes with accomplishment. It is not a bragger type of an expression, but rather one of amazement, wonder and sometimes curiosity. He speaks to me with his beautiful blue eyes and smile. I am compelled to clap and cheer. Yea Luke! Good Boy! Mommy Loves You! Luke loves to clap too! If there is a lot of energy in the room, he gets even more excited. The claps get louder and the bouncing gets faster.

Luke's Accomplishments:

• pulling himself up (for about a week now)
• cruising along the furniture (the last couple of days)
• trying to stand on his own (yesterday - only successful for a couple of seconds)
• bathing in the big tub without his little bath (only likes it, if mommy comes in)
• vocalizing with more intensity
• clapping more frequently and deliberately
• easily grabbing snacks and putting them into his mouth
• transferring objects from one hand to the other
• improving on all of his earlier accomplishment

As I watch Luke (and his sibling), my heart is touched. Often times, I find myself fighting back tears. The tears are of joy, thankfulness, unconditional love, fear and sadness. I am overwhelmed and thankful for the Blessings that God has given me. Being a little older and more experienced parent this time around, I have tried to soak it all in. I enjoyed Samantha and Noah immensely and was able to spend countless hours playing with them. I just did not realize how fast the time would go (this is the sad part).

Having four children has brought great joy to my life and taught me of a different kind-of love. I would lay my life down for any of them. Loving them makes me want to be a better wife, daughter, mother, sister, friend, etc. I am called to be a good example of Christ's love, yet I fail everyday(I fear what this may cost). My patience gets thin, my disappointment is too obvious and my expectations may be too high or low (depending on the subject -school vs. household duties). I feel a heavy burden to teach them how to care for others, as I care for them and as God cares for all of us. Parenting is not easy!

As I was typing this entry, Luke woke up and began to cry. Noah walked in the room and upon making eye contact he said, "Luke had hope in his eyes". He was referring to the fact that Luke was hoping that Noah would reach in and rescue him. What a strong statement! I began to wonder, do I have hope in my eyes? Have I shared hope with those closest to me?

Happy 1st Birthday Wyatt!

Wyatt's Birth Day - One Year Ago Wyatt at his 1st Birthday Party

Other Random Party Pictures

President's Day ~ 2/16

Today we had intended on going to the Reagan Library, but our plans quickly changed. The main lot was filled to capacity and we were directed to the overflow lot. The rain was pouring! The shuttle van would have to take at least 2-3 groups before taking us. We calculated that to be a 40-60 minute wait with no rain shelter. Emily did not seem to mind one way or the other, so we opted to leave in pursuit of other activities. We went to the mall, had dinner at Johnny Rockets and headed to Santa Monica. The drive thru Malibu was beautiful. The Santa Monica Pier is cool, but we had gotten there just as they shut down all the amusements. Despite the fact that things didn't go according to plan, we had a blast hanging out with Emily. We will miss her!