raising redheads

It's almost March and I can hardly wait. March is a slow month. A calm, gentle month. It will warm up slightly and we can enjoy the sunshine. It is a time of hope. For some reason, March revives me. I am ready to feel revived.

We are all enjoying a lazy night at home tonight. I got a movie for the kids and a movie for us. I can't wait to just relax and enjoy one another. This week has been much more busy than usual. Both of my good friends, Ashley & Jennifer had their babies this week!

Ashley & Jeremy welcomed Shawn Michael on Tuesday morning. He weighed 6 lbs. 15 oz.

Jennifer & Steve welcomed Jenna Lou yesterday morning. She weighed 6 lbs. 7 oz.

I was able to see both babies shortly after they were born which was such a blessing to my heart. I have been praying for my friends through their entire pregnancies. In fact, I was with both of them on the days that they found out they were expecting. How neat to share in this time with them! Both babies are absolutely perfect and beautiful. Shawn has no hair and Jenna has quite the mullet. It's awesome.

...oh and they smell delightful...

My babies smell delightful too.

We had such a great day today! We went to a birthday party for their 2nd cousin and they played and behaved perfectly. I'm always so proud of them on days like today. They make me feel like I'm doing alright as their mom. Some days, I don't feel so confident but mostly they are great. As I type, Braden has one sock on and one sock off. He's cute as can be.

Nora has quite the imagination the last few days and she's quite entertaining. She says some of the most off-the-wall things and yet I'm amazed at her mind. She officially read her first word this week. "Pop." She can recognize all of her numbers and almost all of her letters. She's so smart and it is so fun teaching her. Braden is pretty quick himself; learning mostly everything his sister does. It will be a joy teaching them at home.

I am feeling pretty good. Still in alot of shock but definitely getting used to the idea of another little girl. I feel like I could possibly have a UTI so I'm a little uncomfortable tonight. Other than that, I'm growing and can feel this baby moving and that is wonderful to me!

Life is good.

Every day is such a blessing and I find myself thanking God for the surprising joys that He brings. The gifts that only He can give.

This man.

These kids.

This home.

These friends.

New babies.

Hope of sunshine.

Treasures of the everyday.

Thank you Jesus!