Adding #6 Was Easier Than I Thought

I have to admit, I was very nervous about adding a new child to the family. Over population of our 4 bedroom, 3,000 square foot home and 7 passanger minivan was a big concern. But what weighed more heavily on my mind and heart was how the five kids would feel and react to having a new little human around.

Well, now that she has been here for nearly two months, I am happy to report that 99% of the time the older kids are happy to accommodate the baby's needs! They are all crazy about their new baby sister and almost always willing to fetch a clean diaper, new outfit or the pacifier that is across the room. Even more grand is how understanding they are when baby needs to nurse or is fussy and needs mama to snuggle. OR, when I am finally able to get Claire to sleep somewhere other than in my arms, the older siblings are typically willing to make themselves scarce so she can sleep.

My kids amaze me! All my worries have been put to rest and I spend as much time as I can soaking in all the adorable sibling moments!

Like this

and this

and this

and this

and most of all, this

Meet the Newest Herdling!

On June 2, 2013 we welcomed a baby girl, Claire!

8 pounds, 3.5 oz & 20.5 inches long- all 10 fingers and toes...

we think she is a bundle of perfection!

Thank you all for your well wishes!

We are all adjusting and doing well!

Watch for updates as I am sure there will be lots to write about!

The Herd is Expanding!

We have made the announcement to our families, facebook and now to the rest of cyber space...

Our Herd is growing!

In June 2013, we are expecting another daughter!

Our space is limited but thankfully our love is not! We are looking for a larger vehicle, creative rooming ideas and lots of frilly, pink things!

Everyone is super excited (Jack doesn't really get it, but he's very enthusiastic!!)

Watch for updates, I am sure it will be interesting!

 

How to Make a Drill: Owen Style

I am a huge supporter of open-ended, creative play. My oldest son has this mastered! He can make something cool out of just about anything and he is constantly taking his imaginary play to the ends of his little mind!

I apologize for the video clip being sideways! I can't figure out how to rotate it! Youtube shows it in the correct orientation.

The latest Owen Creations is this drill! Crafted from an old (and broken) mobile for our baby doll crib and a sugar cone from the play food bin.

*Well DUHHH*

Who wouldn't look at these two random items and think "DRILL!"

I never know what he will come up with next- sometimes it super creative and sometimes it is more on the destructive or dangerous side but it is always genius! I love to see him think and create!

Trying to Enjoy All That They Do

With five kids, I am really never surprised by what goes on here.

Sometimes I am truly amazed.

There have been moments where I am somewhat speechless

And other times I am left in disbelief...

...but never surprised.

We have raised our kids to be individuals- to be inquisitive, to think and act independently.

So when they do something crazy I am not suprised!

I am proud!!

(usually)

I blog about these moments a lot.

To me they are a little funny, a little frustrating and very endearing!

My most recent example:

My youngest guy stood to the right of this angle- and took his t-shirt off. I watched him- he worked REALLY hard. I could have stopped him and insisted he keep his top on. But I let him think and and act on his own accord.

Then he ran right past me, yelling "I DEHHHH IT!". I felt his pride- who am I to interrupt this important learning process??

Once he got to the exact other side of the photo spot, he proceeded to take his shorts off. This was way easier since they were the pull on/pull off type. Again- he was a proud little guy!

Now that he was declothed he bounced back in front of me, stopped for a moment and a light bulb kind of went off. He grabbed for his diaper straps...

Just as I started to tell him not to go that far- it was done. And the expression on his face was priceless. The look of freedom and pure joy was unforgettable! I can STILL hear his squeel of delight and the giggles that followed!

I am so thankful I had my cell phone in hand, camera already open, and was able to catch this shot as he ran off in a giddy delight!

Some parents would take this moment as a frustrating occurrence of toddler mischief and vent to friends about how difficult kids can be or wish that their child would quickly grow out of this phase.

Me? I am the exact opposite. I will forever cherish this photo and I still marvel at the thought and emotion that took place in these three seconds! I wish I could stop time and enjoy these moment for longer than what we are given. Time is fleeting, and I know it. I try not to dwell on it and just enjoy all the little moments. The happy ones, sad ones, funny ones and yes, even the frustrating ones!