Logan- 1st Year

Logan, you have been such a unique and special child, from the moment you were born. You were always something special, as with any of our children. You have a mystical way of looking at things. . . even now.



Once we got through the sickness of the initial 5-6 months of life, you were the happiest baby- loving everyone with your smiles and soon your words.

You went on your first vacation when you were tiny. We took you to see the ocean. It was your brother's request and we didn't know how crazy we were at the time!

We also visited about 20 zoos and aquariums. You loved it.

You hated to sit in the grass- this is when you started to get used to it.

It didn't take long for you to scream. I'm wondering if the texture bothered you. I'm sorry, but we thought it was a bit funny.

You were a fightin bugger:

Even when you didn't feel well, you put up with my photo shoots:


Zach loved you. . . most of the time.

You wore 3-6 months clothes on your 10 month birthday. You weighed about 12.5 pounds when you turned one I think.

You started to like grass, by the time it started to die off.

And your first year, you had so many tests and trials. It broke my heart. I didn't want to take pictures, but knew you might want these later. I wanted to only be in the moment with you. This was right before your kidney tests. It was an all day procedure and my first experience with surgery, sedation, and iv's on my baby. :(

You screamed and put up a good fight, but the nurses won you over with fun toys. Next time, we would come more prepared. I'm so sorry there ever had to be a next time. . . and time after that . . .

Surgery tuckered you out always.

Your follow-up appointments were always so chipper and happy for your doctors. It made me think how forgiving and thankful you were and yet you didn't even know what that was. . . I don't think so anyway.

Your first year of life was horrible, gut-wretching, unlike what we would have ever experienced, and the most terrific time of our lives. You triumped over death and you showed us that doctors make mistakes and miracles do happen. You have a spirit that is contagious and love people to an extent that Christ would be proud of. You inspire me, my son, Logan.

Flashback 7 years Ago

7 years ago. . .

Hmmm. . . .

I was pregnant. . . with this little cutie:

I was scared to death about his future. Looking back now, I have no idea why I didn't put more faith in the amazing miracles God does. I guess that's what they mean by, "you live and you learn." Logan will celebrate his 7th birthday soon. And. . . oh my goodness- I haven't even sent out birthday invitations! That might be a project to tackle this weekend. Awe. . . just looking back. . . he was gorgeous. . . even with how sick he was as a baby,

I can appreciate it all now.







PS- I really miss Grandma. :(

Oldie but Goodie

This picture was taken back in November during Brienna's birthday party. We had all 7 grandkids together. This past week, we have learned how to Skype with Brienna and my Blue Springs family. It is sooo fun!!!!! I really enjoy it.

Weekend

Malachi spent the weekend quilting with Grandma Pam and Aunt Sharon. I think he had such a fun time as well as kept them entertained. He's quite the talker and story-teller. It is such a blessing to have family close that my kids know so well. It also helps do much with how my health has been lately so I could rest this past weekend.

Shawn's 31st Birthday

I forgot to get this posted. I apologize. Its been crazy busy and icky around here. Our immune systems need a BREAK! Shawn had his 31st birthday a few weeks ago. Of course, he had to work all day, so we celebrated briefly with him when he got home. His favorite cake is Jell-O with Cool Whip cake, so I tried, but honestly, my energy is gone by the end of the day, this is what we ended up with:

The kids picked out the candles- some were even trick candles! :)


Shawn was amused!


Look at all that smoke for just 33 candles!!!!!!



My big 3-0 is coming up soon. I have to admit I'm a little nervous about it, not because I will be getting older but I'm just understanding more about how very precious my days are with my family. I have so much I want to do.

Afternoon at the Park

Today it was nice out. . .maybe close to 55 degrees. The boys had spent time last night at friends' houses so today they needed to get out and get some fresh air. After the med dosage changes I am finally up and going and a bit stronger. I decided to pull my camera off and dust it off a little bit. I need to blog more so my boys have memories of what they did growing up.

Today was fun. . .and exhausting. . . but worth it.

I loved the time at the park with the kids and I especially loved how I captured some of their most precious facial expressions.




These keep me going.















This bike really is a little too small for Malachi. We need to find a new home for it, but its so sentimental. :(

I love the determined face in this picture:

Zachary LOVES riding his bike. He is a good rider and really sticks with it.