My New Favorite Carrier

Sometimes Owen is a little clingy, especially when life gets stressful here with getting ready for the move. I had a ring carrier that I'd put him in but he was just outgrowing it, the snugli was fine, but my back would hurt after a little while, so a friend had her baby wrapped and I asked her how to do it. I went and bought several yards of material, and practiced several times (when Anna's home she is a big help, she loves to do the final tie for me), and I finally found a comfortable wrap for both of us. He doesn't fall asleep in it often but I thought I'd grab the photo op while I could.

Beau's Drawings

Beau drew these for school.
They hang in the hall for a long time.
The other kids were very impressed as was his teacher.
Of course Ben and I were impressed too.
He did tell me he feels he really needs to work on drawing animals with four legs he isn't very good at that yet. I told him he had plenty of time to practice. He doesn't have to be perfect right away. He strives for perfection in everything which is good and bad at times.

Sledding Fun For All

We took the kids to College Hill, a sledding hill they have wanted to visit since the first winter we were here. It was a struggle to get them all to stop long enough to take this picture but I am so glad I did. They all look so happy and it really sums up our time here in Montana. The days are going by fast Ben will be leaving in less than a month, but we will always have these wonderful memories. Although I can't wait until this winter goes away, I am way ready for spring.

I didn't get pictures of it but Anna and Beau will wrestle over one sled and the winner is the one that is on the sled at the bottom. Watching it I am sure that one of them will end up crying but they both are smiling ear to ear when they come in from the hill. I think they like the aggressive outlet with their snow gear on because they are padded. It is also a lot of fun to watch them enjoying themselves so much.

Owen's First Sledding with Daddy

Down the hill with daddy

Owen had so much fun

The journey back up had begun

Daddy pulled with all his might

Owen's smile was so slight

He was all grins back at the top

Til mom said it was time to stop

Time to go to the car she said

at least she didn't put me to bed.

Anna's Valentine Treat

Memere sent the kids each a dollar in their Valentine's card and I let them get a treat at Wal-Mart. Anna loved what she chose and we took a picture to show Memere.
Thank you Memere for the special treat. Love your bugs!!!

Who Needs a Chair

Luke is super resourceful.

It's Been Too Long

Time is slowly flying by. There is so much going on yet each day presents its own challenges with an 8 month that wants to be 2.

His favorite toy, he loves music, the louder the better.
Ben and I are thrilled with this.

Look mom no hands.

Falling down, a normal activity.

Just a cute picture.

This shirt reminds me of a Luke story. If you have met Luke you have probably received a monkey hug, where he wraps his arms and legs around you so tight you can let go and he will stay put, stuck right there. His monkey hugs are infamous. We don't do monkey hugs all the time around here, although occasionally he gives one out, but the other day he was eating a banana and piped up, "Hey mom, this will help make me stronger for my monkey hugs." Well put Luke, he is a little comedian as well as the loudest one in the house, although Owen is starting to compete.