Everett Turns 7!

So, our big boy turned 7. How is this possible? Wasn't I just writing about how he learned to roll over. And crawl? And that he took his first steps. Watching your children grow is so very bitter sweet. There is this surge of joy. That they have grown closer to independence. They have learned new skills and matured. Every day is a step closer to the person they are becoming. However, there is also this surge of sadness. They need you less. The days of babyhood are becoming more faded. 

I'll never forget the moment when I was in our apartment in Louisville, rocking my sweet baby Everett. He was just days old and I remember looking down at him wondering what kind of boy he would turn out to be. Well, I could not be happier that God has given me this boy. Everett is funny, witty, passionate, curious, determined, intelligent, and can be so sweet. He is very artistic and I think that just might be his "thing." A day does not go by where he doesn't grab a piece of construction paper and a pencil and sketch something. And it is 90% of the time Star Wars related. Which leads me to his family birthday party. This year's theme was Star Wars. 

 And the majority of his gifts were Star Wars related. 

 Oh my. A chocolate cake with 7 birthday candles!

 And littlest brother certainly loves cake. 

 This one too. 

Happy Birthday Everett Grey!

The Goat Farm

Also known as The Carl Sandburg home...........

Glitter Play Dough with Ellie Girl

There is a sweet spot in our homeschool morning where Everett works on his copy book and cursive and does not need any assistance from me. This is when I try to have some toddler time with my two favorite tots. This morning Eleanor and I decided to make some glitter play dough. It was non-cook play dough so super easy and she was able to help. We added the glitter for some fun. I love special time with my girl and I know she soaks up every minute of it!

Easter Morning

We had a lovely Easter. We went to church which was followed by a wonderful lunch (which the children helped pick out), and opening Easter baskets. After service we ate fried chicken, orzo salad, biscuits, and loaded baked potatoes. For dessert we had strawberry layer cake and chocolate layer cake. So yummy! 

 The best I could get with the sun in their eyes. 

 Opening baskets. Eleanor got a set of fairy tale books (which she loves), bubbles, and stamps. 

 The big boys each got bug catchers, books, and Everett got a new Bible. Thatcher got some board books, a bunny and chick wind up toy, and a new bus (a New York City bus!)

An Easter Outing

Easter afternoon we decided to venture over to the arboretum since the day was just so beautiful. The big boys brought their new bug catchers and were eager to find some insects. 

 Everett checking out an ant find. 

 His school bus is always in hand. 

 Signs of Spring. 

 Oh my, these two. 

 And the perfect end to our adventure was an Easter egg hunt in the woods. 

A Coloring Hobby

I am always up for anything that will keep my littles occupied, and any good alternative to screen time. So how did I not know about Color Wonder?! A good friend told me how these coloring books with special markers and I ran out to Target and stocked up. It certainly has helped Eleanor color within the lines and my big boys love showing off their coloring talent. And even Thatcher Reid has enjoyed being able to color with markers. It makes for a good before dinner task. 

Little Bit of Lately.....

Eleanor is a little iffy when it comes to naps lately. She sleeps every couple of days, but on the off days she has "rest time." It truly is not much of a rest time though. She mostly gets into her closet and puts together crazy outfits (like the one pictured below). And today I had her come downstairs because she was singing way too loudly and I was sure she would wake Thatcher Reid. Oh my-this quirky little thing keeps me on my toes!

 And our bin of beans kept her occupied while I cooked dinner one night. 

 And then everyone joined in on the fun. 

 And then one night these two tried to convince us they could sleep in bed together. And they almost had us convinced! As sweet as it was, I was happy they both retired to their own beds. I love this friendship that is growing between these two.