Friends

Lately Ruby & Noah have started to really play with each other. I've been waiting for this moment & it's kind of been life changing to have 15 minute intervals where I can do things like empty the dishwasher without a baby crawling into it. I love hearing these two laughing together in the other room & seeing all the silly games they come up with. Ruby told me yesterday, "Noah's my best friend. He's a good baby." And Noah definitely saves the majority of his kisses for his sister. These two really love each other. I want more than anything for them to be close friends & I have a feeling they're going to be. There is nothing that brings me more joy than seeing my kids love each other.



1st Birthday Celebrations

I feel like we just finished a birthday marathon between Ruby & Noah's birthdays & multiple celebrations each. But this year was a fun one. Noah & his cousin Kate had a little birthday party together which was fun since those two are only 8 days apart.

 

 

I'm afraid Noah has gotten to be a pro at devouring birthday cupcakes. He eats those things like it's his job, all with this very serious look on his face.

 

Ruby loved "helping" Noah open all his presents.

 

 

Noah's teething face - he's working on getting all 4 molars at once (?!)

 

This little motorcycle toy was such a hit! His legs aren't quite long enough to reach the floor but he figured out a way to push himself just using one foot. I'm pretty sure he'd live on that thing if I'd let him. Boys are fun.

 

There is something terribly satisfying to me about a first birthday. That first year is full of so much - all things good & hard & transitory & so many new & exciting experiences. It is a year to be celebrated for sure. Happy Birthday Noah!



 



On Living the Simple Life

I feel like the early years with my children are such a unique season of life where I have them almost all to myself & most of our living is done within the walls of our own home. Our schedule is predictable & simple & they take so much pleasure in the little things. I am so much of their world & they need me & love me in this way that is simultaneously exhausting & so fulfilling. I love watching their faces as they learn & grow & take in the world around them. They love to peak out the window & watch the garbage man pick up the trash or people mowing the lawn. These days are good in the simplest, purest kind of way & I'm certain that some of my fondest memories are unfolding right before my eyes.



12 Months

Our sweet little Noah is a year old! This past year with him has been one to remember. I can't imagine a happier or more fun little boy. He's a mama's boy through & through & one wild child. It's hard to describe, but he has just done something to my heart. He came into my life & was everything to me that I never knew I needed. He has been such a bright spot in our family & you can always count on him to be happy & smiling. He's such a dream. Oh, how I adore this little boy! Happy Birthday sweet Noah!

 

 

 

 

And here are some things I want you to remember Noah:

1. You are SO loved. Totally, completely & unconditionally.

2. Be a gentleman. Open doors, use good manners, pay sincere compliments, & be respectful.

3. Avoid the tendency to be too casual - in dress, in relationships, in worship, & in speech. 

4. Be grateful. Feel it & express it. It makes for a much happier life.  

5. Follow the example of your dad. You won't go wrong.