Kinda Cute...

To capture Asher and Millie at the precious, I won't-be-this-small-for-much-longer stage that they are in, we called upon Sandy Haas. Sandy photographed our wedding (almost 6 years ago!) when she was just beginning her journey in photography. She tirelessly hiked around Oak Openings with us on a HOT Saturday in July and the result is this. (scroll down after you click the link to see our slideshow) We were really just hoping to get a few shots of the kids, but we got way more than we bargained for! :)

Soon-to-be-sold

Just got a call that our house the new house are both cleared to close. Looks like next Thursday will be the big day. I am ELATED. Can't help but get choked up every time I think about it. A better answer to prayer than I could have ever hoped for. I will miss this sweet little place. I'm not gonna know WHAT to do with myself in our new home. And I CAN'T WAIT!!!

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

Ephesians 3:20-21

Little Helper

So many things to do... So little time... Wah, wah, wah... I don't think life will ever be rid of things to do. And nor do I naively await a time in which things will "slow down". There is always something and that's just life. Moms and homemakers especially cannot easily escape their jobs. They dwell in the places they work and kids always need to be cared for no matter what their age. So, as I have come to this awakening, I've been trying to incorporate Asher in some of the things I'd typically wait until nap, bedtime or the early morning to get done. I've even captured some sweet shots of this hands-on little guy.

Our neighbor gave him his very own,

Asher-sized watering can.

His first attempt at unloading the silverware.

Not sure if he liked standing at the top of the step stool

or getting to handle adult-sized utensils more. It's a toss up.

Bagel Date

While Millie snuggled in bed with Papa this morning, I took Asher out on the back patio. He drank his milk and I sipped my coffee. It was a beautiful morning. Sunny and bright yet cool. Lots of birds and squirrels to watch. I'll miss this backyard.

I had the urge to go for a walk, but also knew the clock would tick quickly before church and both Mama and little man would need to eat before then. Or else.

Insert Panera. Walkable and edible. Love, love, love. Love the friendly old man who never ceases to be there each morning to greet you with a smile and open doors for the mamas and their strollers. (Bravo to you, kind sir!) I really must ask this man his name sometime. It seems ridculous that I have not. But anyway, what a perfect morning for a Mama/Asher date. I had the french toast bagel toasted with butter while he munched on an untoasted blueberry bagel. (He says bagel quite well you know. And pronounces coffee without flaw :) We watched the cars, the trucks, the motorcycles and many folks out riding their bikes. Main Street is a perfect form of entertainment and conversation for a young boy. Doggies, birdies, flowers. The sun reaching up over the buildings behind us while we hid in the shade. Let's just say it was a good morning.

5 Ways That Simple, Frugal Living Benefits Kids

A dear family friend who had a good deal to do with my up-bringing wrote an article that encapsulates so much of what I desire for my family and children. More and more I find myself leaning toward this idea of slow, intentional, frugal living and parenting. Not there yet, but I'm steering in this direction. Find the fabulous article here.

7 Months- Swimsuit Edition

Each month I am falling more and more behind on these pics! Nevertheless, here is sweet Millie in the midst of her 7th month. She just HAD to show off her darling swimsuit. A great borrow thanks to the Gawron girls!

And a little bonus video for ya. Fuzzy cuz I took it with

the digital and not our actual video camera...