Thursday, January 29, 2015

Ice Cream Sandwich therapy

My boys encountered me sneaking an ice cream sandwich this afternoon and volunteered to "help" me out with it. After giving them each a bite, Madigan stated: "Mama, I am such a good helper. Why don't I help you some more?" Ever vigilant in his care and concern. 

The sunshine came out today and opened our doors for some outdoor romping. The youngest member of this crew has been wrestling with a fever for three days, so we curtailed our adventures to the back porch, but there was much happiness. There were dump trucks buzzing at full speed, bicycles careening and little legs galloping. Though there is very little that causes me more fatigue than watching my boys fight sickness, there was so much delight in this day. That sweet little monkey wanted only to lay his head against my chest and cuddle all day long. Laundry has officially taken over our house, the floor has started growing hair thanks to the generous contributions of our crazy white dog, the fridge is hosting the good, bad and ugly by now, and be warned, lest you need to use our restroom. 

Boys are in bed, and I do believe there's another ice cream sandwich in there calling my name - only mine. :-) 



Beware the green monster. 

Sick and still smiling. 

Paugie's selfie. 

Morning mug, yoga style. 

The three four amigos.



Stuck. But still smiling. 

Jess printed my entire blog for me... 

I've been reading all day... such a gift. 

Saturday, January 24, 2015

40% of my life


Almost. As we celebrated our 14th wedding anniversary, my "George" and I realized that we have been married for almost 40 percent of our lives.


In this shared life, we have grown through:  
unknown and exciting challenges (multiple moves across the country, Kris' PhD attainment, parenthood) 
heartache (loss of Mama Lynn, Papa Ross, beloved grandparents, loneliness, longing)
immeasurable blessings (have you met our 4 magical boys? Community, friendship)
fear/anxiety (Who in the world has this parent thing figured out? Unanswered questions) 
joy in abundance (in my every day. I wake up and know that I'm loved. And then there's the other 4 marvelous men I live beside - endless joy) 
a deep and abiding love that passes all understanding (or reason, sometimes). I had no idea that love meant this. 








As Madigan announced in Costco, yesterday: "Mama, I want to be a daddy. Our dad is really fabulous, and I will be a fabulous dad too." Truly stated, my boy. 







Future photographer

Don't let his size fool you... there's some serious talent in that small person! If anyone's looking for a backup shooter, he's your man. 


Proof is in the pudding. 


Sunday, January 18, 2015

Hoofing it through winter

On a rare warm day during winter, it is hard to keep this crew indoors. You're likely to find us gallivanting on the trails, throwing sticks in the pond, playing hide-and-seek in the trees and running as much as our legs will permit. Eventually, someone runs out of steam and we begin the formidable stroll to the truck (and, ultimately, home for naps). These treasured days renew our hope and relieve so much pent-up energy. 


The Highwayman

Solving the mysteries of the world.  

That Paugie Face

Such a face! 

Still deep in thought... 


I treasure these moments.

Just really handsome. 

Hide-and-Seek begins 

All purpose vehicle (or mom)

Hide-and-seek continues...