Lately

I've heard from a few people (well, my mom and one other person) that I need to blog more, so that leads me to believe one thing: the blog actually gets read by my mom and at least one other person.

Our lives have been the least busy they've ever been these past few weeks. This little booger keeps me hopping, from the time she gets up until we say a good-night prayer and lay her down, but generally speaking, our days are easy and restful.

We said a very sad but proud farewell to this little guy (and his parents):

We do get to have weekly facetime chats with them all the way across the world!  Avery turns one this month, and even though he and Eric and Katie are far away, we love that they are so selflessly obedient. So stinkin proud of them!

Easter was very fun this year. Esther had several chances to gather eggs. I refuse to say "hunt" when all she has to do is walk around...she should expect a challenge next year.

Mimi made special efforts for Easter outfits this year, and everyone was dressed beautifully.

Lee was gracious enough to let me keep my annual beach trip with Toni, and it was a much anticipated girl time.  I. love. this girl!!

As soon as I got back from the beach, I decided to tackle potty training.  It did not go well. On the third day of very little success and LOTS of messes, I gave up. We'll try again when Esther shows the least bit interest.  So far she's only interested in unrolling the toilet paper.

We had lunch with Mimi for Mother's Day, and we have so enjoyed all the extra time we've had with her lately!  I'm also realizing more and more that I am JUST like her. (Tip: Only I am allowed to admit that.)

We've had several birthday parties for friends, and Esther has attended all in true girly style. It cracks me up how prissy she is.

We had the chance to be at the hospital to welcome a new friend, Mason Marie! We have already had fun loving on "baybie," and can't wait for more snuggle time this summer!

After last year's water terrors, I was a little nervous about Esther's reaction to the pool this summer. This about sums it up:

She loves the water! We have a blow-up pool in the back yard that she loves, and she is fearless at Mimi's "big pool." She jumps off the edge without hesitation, and she can spend hours jumping off the steps and "swimming" (floating while I pull her) back. I'm so glad, especially since its already unbearably hot.

The best part about my being home is all the cousin time we get. The Renicks are in perfect walking distance, and I love how often we get to see them. Esther and Lyza Claire are in the same class at church, and it has only increased their fondness for each other. Its wonderful to know Esther has four loving cousins so close, and I LOVE having my big sister as a neighbor. She has become my closest friend, my shoulder to cry on and my confidant. I'm so thankful for her and her littles.

More to come later, but this should catch "both" of my readers up!