Little Adventures

So much of our days are filled with routine but nothing breaks the norm like play dates.  These are one of the best inventions that moms came up with.  The time is great for child-to-child interaction as well as discovering our kids' strengths and weaknesses.  We love filling our home with family and friends and welcome the chance to strength those bonds.  Carson had his first playdate with buddy, Asher, this Saturday.  Even before the age of one, the boys wanted whatever toy the other child had.  It is one of those things that we don't have to be taught. 

And the Hamrick clan (Gabriel, Kaelyn, Kinsleigh, and London) came over on a rare but beautiful afternoon and we all took turns riding in the Dune Racer.  Did you know it's possible to squeeze 4 little girls in a two seated Power Wheels?

Siena is eating better these days and is learning so much.  She knows where everything is in the house, including Mommy's things.  She DOES NOT have the Knoll gene for running late.  She is ready to go before any of us, and is usually loads herself in the car, patiently waiting on the rest of us to join her.

Carson is our joyful little boy.  I truly believe he is the happiest baby in the world with his giggles and squeals.  And if he isn't using his mouth for that, he is attacking Mommy for kisses.  He dressed up like Daddy for church this week and wowed all the ladies.   I am currently taking names and numbers of eligible ladies because I think his black book is going to fill up quick.

Story time is delivered by Daddy at our house in Siena's room with a story of her choosing and a chapter from the Bible.  Carson is usually left out because of feedings or a bath but on this rare occasion, story time was for Carson and Siena couldn't be left out (even though her lights were out).  There is nothing better than the little, ordinary things to make up this beautiful, extraordinary home.

January in Tennessee

January is typically the slowest month of the year and that's pretty true here.  But the small things are still important.  Carson started eating cereal this month.  Unfortunately, it hasn't kept him full enough to sleep through the night.  He is also enjoying his Johnny Jumper and is very quickly following in his sister's footsteps of being VERY active and on the move.

January is New Year's Series at our church which equals fun and excitement.  We have enjoyed dressing the kids up in new outfits from Aunt Cathy and Cousin Megan for service.  January is also basketball season, and though we live south of the Mason-Dixon line, we still cheer on our Kansas teams, in spirit and in attire.

Siena has been an amazing big sister and has recently started talking to Carson in a high pitched voice.   It's easy to see that she considers herself to be a grown-up and definitely not a baby anymore.

And Tennessee FINALLY got snow....two days after a tornado warning in the middle of the night.   Makes perfect sense, right?  Nothing was cuter than Siena bursting into the bathroom while I was showering to announce, "MOMMY, IT SNOWED!"  Following a warm breakfast, we headed outside to enjoy our winter wonderland, while it lasted.  (Yes, it was melted before noon)  And as always, Milo refused to be left out.