Overwhelmed

Thanksgiving. Christmas Cards. Checking Backpacks. Washing Bottles. Work. Unknowns. Black Friday. Spelling Words. Overdue Library Books. Dentist Appointments. Blog. Christmas Lists. Wrapping Gifts. Birthdays. Family. Dinner. Groceries. Computers Breaking. DVR. Bible Study. Emails. Pictures. Doctor Appointments. Sick. Bills. Laundry. Friends. Bank. Post Office. Target. Meijer. Cleaning. Baby-sitting. Reading.

Stopping...to reflect, live in the moment, talk to God and not worry about everything above. It's tough, but also feels necessary right now. All of the above will always be there, but Johanna will not be 8 months for much longer. Abigail will not be an emergent reader for much longer. Henry will not be wanting me to do puzzles with him for much longer. It's tough to stop when "stuff" gets in the way...I'm busy and feeling overwhelmed...time for a snuggle, a book and a puzzle.

Mom's 60th Birthday Gift

Sunday was a gorgeous Fall day so Mom and Dad were able to take their hot air balloon ride that was Mom's birthday gift. They took off in Southwest Holland and landed in Zeeland. It was a beautiful day for a ride and they said that they had a wonderful time!

Halloween 2009

We had a fun, yet COLD, Halloween this year! Abigail was SO excited to be Princess Leia and loved the costume that my mom made for her. Henry was appropriately then Han Solo. Johanna was a warm, cozy elephant. The kids had a lot of fun. It's obvious that Abigail is really growing up...she outlasted everyone and would have loved to trick-or-treat all night.

Helping in Abigail's Class

On Friday Abigail's class had a fun day! They started the day off with a parade wearing their masks that they made in Art class. Abigail's mask was chosen to be in an art show at the Arts Council...we are so proud of her! Then they rotated between the four first grade teachers and learned about bats, spiders, owls and one other thing that I can't remember! I was able to help in Abigail's class while she was learning about bats. They made these adorable bat headbands. It was fun to be with her for a bit!

Abigail's mask.

Abigail and her friend Henri working.
Abigail showing off her headband.
The whole class.

Johanna at SEVEN months!

Johanna is getting big! I'm behind, as usual, so at this writing she's 7 1/2 months really. She's still the happiest baby in the world, sleeps 12 hours at night and takes two naps a day. She loves fruit and cereal, but hates vegetables and gags every time. She got her first tooth not too long ago on the bottom and the other bottom middle tooth is peeking through as well. She actually went to the doctor today and weighs 16 pounds, 1 ounce. We're getting close to being out of size 2 diapers and 3-6 month clothing, though she can still wear both. We had a fun Summer and we also love Fall when it's not so hot and we can be outside in the cool air. This little girl is getting bigger every day and we love her SO much!