Marlie and Tate had their birthdays in April, turning 6 and 2. They are both hilarious and adorable at these ages.
Marlie is sweet and kind and spunky. She is learning to read and has just as much energy as ever. She loves to draw and create more than anything else, but also really enjoys math so apparently she is a good mix of her dad and I.
Tate is the funniest kid I've ever known. I know I'm bias but for real, he is. He is talking in full sentences, loves "diggers", is his dad's biggest fan, still hasn't had a haircut, is really sweet with Hays, and keeps us laughing for sure.
Hays Baby is almost 7 months old. He is the chunkiest baby I've ever had and I love it. He is laid back and happy. He is still waking up at night a few nights a week. His first two teeth poked through a few weeks ago. Unfortunately he has been battling a virus mixed with his eczema that has been pretty awful. It has left him with some spots that might scar and me with an aching heart. I'm hoping this is just a short phase that will soon pass, but I don't know.
We went to Florida last month for a much needed family vacation. It was interesting to say the least. Hays' virus popped up right as we were leaving our house and we pretty much spent the week worrying and trying to figure out what the heck was happening to him. Mix that in with taking care of two other children, and two twelve hour car rides and it was more than a little rough. But, there were some really good moments too. Memories were made and despite the stress, we were thankful for the change of scenery and time together. Marlie and Tate were adorable little beach bums. My mom and step dad were there to help (praise the Lord). We are eternally grateful to our friends, Terry and Mary, for the use of their place in Florida. We've been going there now since before Marlie was born and it has become such a special place for our family.
Once upon a time, before stretch marks and sippy cups, I was a backpacking guide in Colorado during the summers in college. There were days I thought I couldn't possibly take another step. My feet were rubbed raw and wrapped in duck tape. My body was pushed to carry more than I thought I ever could and walk farther than I thought possible. It was emotionally, physically and spiritually exhausting. However, I also saw more, learned more, and grew more than I ever had before. I used to tell people that guiding was the hardest, but best thing I've ever done. I can now say that motherhood rivals those summers in Colorado. There are days I sit in my car and stare at the house, wondering how I can ever get the kids and all of the grocery bags up our stairs one more time. My back is on fire by the time I crawl in to bed and I'm asleep before my head hits the pillow. I wonder and worry and pray about what to say, and what not to say. About when to be tough and when to be compassionate and how to be both at the same time. But sprinkled throughout all of the really hard times, are moments so rich and meaningful that keep me going. One foot in front of the other, just like those days as a guide. This is a really hard, but wonderful season of life. I'm so thankful.
