Playing Catch up....

Needless to say, our lives have been a little bit more than busy lately. Winter has finally lifted its heavy hand upon us here in West Plains, and Spring is in full swing. Living life with an almost teen, a pre-teen, a toddler, and a baby has been incredibly challenging in so many ways, but still a blessing. I must admit that there are days when life would seem so much easier if I had two in school, one in Mother's Day Out, and only one at home to lug around, but I know that we are where God wants us to be for now, so we will continue to walk in the light that we have, trusting in Him, and counting our blessings.

We took a family road trip to Nashville, TN in early April with a family from West Plains. We had a blast! We visited several museums and parks along the way and had a great time with the Lewandowski's. We got a flat tire on the way home and had to drive 55 mph almost the entire way home. It took forever, but we got EXCELLENT gas milage!

Tim has been traveling quite a bit since his job responsibilities have shifted some. He is still doing a fantastic job, and his efforts are apparent in the companies continued growth. I know that it isn't Tim that is responsible for this, but God is , and is using him in this field to encourage and assist his fellow co-workers in growing business. Tim at the Great Wall in China, December 09
Brenna is very involved in the Youth ministry at our church and is looking forward to her summer mission trip to Arlington, Texas where they will participate in apartment ministry. She still loves tumbling, and is continuing to develop those skills. Watching her long legs flip around is quite beautiful. She has made some new buddies at our home school co-op, and is enjoying developing those friendships as well.

Taylor had oral surgery mid April, and is healing up so well. I praise God that she has recovered from this much better than I did when I had the same thing done at almost her same age. It is amazing how well she has done, and we know that is all because God heard our prayers! She LOVES tumbling, and is so athletic. She has no fear when it comes to doing the tricks, and is doing so well. She has enjoyed co-op as well, making new friends and spending time with old ones too.

Kara is.... well... Kara... she is growing so fast. Her vocabulary has gone from words and sentences to paragraphs and dissertations. She loves to play outside on her slide, blowing bubbles, and picking up rocks... yea, rocks... She is doing so well with her potty training and we hope to soon be 100% diaper free soon. She still wears them at night. She loves to be with her sisters, and loves to mother TJ. They have really started interacting more, playing together, and laughing together. That sound just melts my heart.

It is hard to believe that TJ will be one year old in a short month. He is such a joy. He says mama, dada, ba-ba, bye, hi, and has the signs down for "more" and "all done". He loves to smile, laugh, give kisses, and play. He is already "all boy", as I say, in his need to tackle, throw, and play rough. He is almost walking, and I think hasn't done so yet because he has his sisters who will pick him up when he reaches up for them.

As for summer, we don't have any specific plans yet. And I am ok with that for now. With everything that has been going on in life, it would be nice to have some down time. Reality is that I know we won't have that for many more years to come with our kiddos in 4 different directions. Until then... this is the season.

Brenna, Taylor, and Kara, April 10

"The little man" TJ Easter morning, April 2010