Runners!!

I just love that my boys have the opportunity, at a young age, to experience cross country. I must say, knowing how much they enjoy basketball and baseball and football, I never imagined they'd enjoy running so much. I didn't think cross country would even be on their radar, especially if'd they'd have to choose that instead of the other sports they've played since they were 5.  I enjoyed running for my school when I hit junior high. My only experience up until that point was probably the 50 yard dash at the annual field day. If you ask Mike, he'd admit, the running genes come from my side of the family. My dad and younger brother were also runners.

The boys have run 3 races so far this season. Last Friday, Trent set a goal, went for it, and got first place. His determination is amazing to me. He was white as a ghost after he crossed the finish line and walked over to me. His lips were quivering both from the emotion of his excitement and sheer exhaustion. He half whispered through his dry mouth "I did it, Mom!" He gave me a big HUG! (you know, in front of EVERYONE!)

Yes, I totally teared up! So amazed by his drive and determination and accomplishment. He has not yet won in his 3 years of running. He's been 2nd many times, so this was fun for him. I loved cheering him on and sharing in his success!

Drew has done well this season too. He's enjoyed running and being part of a team. I'm learning more about his personality as well. I love that he is just as excited, if not more, to see his friends do well than he is for himself. He's got a good heart.

Enjoy a few pics from the race...

Schools In

A new school year has begun!

New School,

fresh supplies,

lunches packed!

Praying you have a great year, boys!

And, yes, we miss you already! See you this afternoon...

Celebrating!

...another year of life...

We always do a big b-day party with Mike's family on our vacation together. We spanned June through September this party. So here are, of course, 3 of my sweet 6 gifts!

Sporting her new pink tutu! She wears it well.

13 months

Cuz I just can't help it...

I love making these monthly reminders of my baby girl growing up.  Really, I just know I'm probably not going to get to making her a scrapbook, so this is going to have to do! I love looking back at the 12 other pictures I've got and seeing how she has changed.

I just love her delicate little profile.

Have a great week all!

Walkin'

We reached another milestone...she's on the go. This last week I gotta break my mom and brother took countless steps with Anna. She knew where she wanted to go, but needed there hand for stability, and they graciously obliged! It was so funny to watch her take off and practically run. When we arrived back home she ventured on her own after a ball in the family room. She took a two steps, then four...then seven! Ahh!! She was so pleased with herself. I snapped a few of her outside as well...

Idependance Day 2013

We got to celebrate the 4th with my family in Ohio. We took the kiddos to King's Island and had fun going on the big rides! We hardly spent any time in the kiddy area. They are just growing up so fast. We stayed with my brother and had a nice afternoon in their pool.

Happy 13th!

Just looking back at some pictures of this day 13 years ago! I posted some a few years ago here...

A fun little review of the last 13 years...