dan, beth and baby livia

aren't they adorable?!?!

they are my sis-in-law, her hubby and their 5 month old daughter!

i sure had fun taking their pictures!

sadie elizabeth & lauren faith

taking in the moment

we just got back from a week up north with my wonderful parents and grandparents. who are all amazing.

i was privileged to spend a lot of quality time with my grandpa. who we don't see often. my grandpa has faced the loss of his only son [my uncle] this february. and his wife's memory. [my grandma] recently being diagnosed with a fast-acting-dementia. yet. he is still thankful. he is a great listener. very wise. a great teacher. a great observer. and a complete joy to be with. he never complained. he was open and honest. but focused mostly on the good times. he loved to share funny stories. just the way he lives his life has recently affected me to my core. my grandpa got the memo that we only live once. he is 100% present. i'm grateful for that.

i hope to become a person who is noticed for the unspoken things i do, like my grandpa.

in honor of my uncle who recently moved to heaven and in honor of my grandpa and grandma. tonight i took in all that was in front of me. because you remind me to. just by being you.

thank you.

sweet summertime

swimming.


swinging.


bonding.

family fun

John wrapped up his Spring semester last night. No school for him, for 3 DAYS. He begins his summer class (1 of 2) Monday night. He is getting strait A's. All while juggling family and work like a pro! This morning we felt a spontanious family day [to come up for air] after a VERY busy two months was definately in order.

In no particular order, here is a fun recap of our time out as a family!

stream of consciousness

picture style.


Sadie has become an avid bike rider. Just in time to turn 5. Nini enjoys to stroll along too. It's EXTRA exciting when the four of us get to do this together.


the girls still love sharing a bed. aside from a few clonks and bonks. and certainly some giggles and mischief. overall it's been going well. it really saves space. and today Sadie was really sad to not be with Nini while she was away from her. i'm glad for their new bond. and. i think it has something to do with their co-sleeping ways.


Nini is a proud mama. just like her big sis.


Sadie is an amazing artist.


Sadie did a great job at her first ballet.


almost brought a tear to my eye.


i'm thankful for her confidence.


the song: "be careful little eyes what you see... be careful little eyes what you see... for the Father up above is looking down in love... oh, be careful little eyes what you see..."

and so on. remember this one from Sunday school?? :)


a new favorite. nature hikes. and. collecting wood ticks. so far, the seasons count//Sadie: 2. Nini: 2. Mom 2. YUCK.


of course. any activity must accompany eating.


oldest=planner. youngest=free spirit.

ha ha!