Jacob's Surgery

 Jacob has struggled with clogged tear ducts since birth, similar to Sam.  We were not surprised that he would need surgery to open his ducts.  We were just grateful to get it done this year since we have already reached our medical deductible with all the events of this year.

 Waiting for him to wake up after his surgery.  He started to stir and try to sit up so I was able to pick him up.  As soon as I was holding him he fell right back to sleep.  It took him a really long time to finally wake up.  I think he was enjoying the quiet room and cuddling time with mom! :)

 His left eye had a lot of infection in is so the doctor left betydine in the eye to fight the infection.  The result was a gnarly looking eye for a couple days.  Now he looks good as new.  So grateful for the success of the surgery.

Summin' Up September

 Our Scout Council has all scouts wear their uniform to school on Patriot Day.  Sam's teacher sent me this picture from that day.

 Early morning seminary, late night band rehearsals, piano lessons, homework, orchestra concerts, etc...adjusting to life in High School has resulted in a couple days of finding Thomas like this after school for a few minutes.

 Spring was able to attend a youth temple trip to the Columbus temple!

 Another useful endeavor with duct tape.  He kept messing with his siblings at dinner and after repeated attempts to get him to stop we pulled out the duct tape.  He thought it was funny but it also served a purpose.  He stopped messing with them after we let him go free! :)  This kids keeps us on our toes but he is so much fun.

 Detours to climb tress are a regular occurrence when we go for walks.

 Sam on Safety Patrol!

 Thomas needed some help with his math homework so Jacob willingly volunteered!

 Mix-Match Day for Homecoming Spirit Week.

Daily Life with our Littles

 These two love doing crafts together and painting has been a favorite this month.  They even rediscovered finger paint.  Trying to get all the enthusiasm for that over with now while it is still warm enough to paint outside.

 Library visits are always a highlight.  I can usually get them to run any errand with me if I promise a trip to the library when we are done.  Gideon has speech at the library once a week as well so we get to enjoy the time playing and reading while he is in speech.

 Jacob has become very good at pulling food out of they pantry and out of the recycling container.

 Already loving to play music.

 He doesn't like it so much when all his siblings go outside to play and he is left inside.  We often find him looking out the windows "talking" to them.

 Puzzles are a daily happening.

 Enjoying being outside for as long as the weather will allow it!

We have a 7 Year Old!

Joshie is now 7!  Not sure where all those years went.  I guess that is how it always will be, though.  Josh has been really excited for his birthday this year.  He chose to have salisbury steak with noodles and white sauce for his dinner.  His dessert choice was an ice cream cake!  It was so fun to take him with me to pick up his cake and choose his birthday balloons for the family.  He chose to get punching balloons for all his siblings this year.  

I love Joshie.  He has a way of melting me in moments.  His quick smile with his little dimple and his twinkle in his eye.  He wants to much to make others happy and keep peace and harmony in the home and everywhere he is.  He often is our quiet reminder that words, tones, and actions can be hurtful.  These are the thoughts that come to mind when I think of Josh at this point in his life:

*Peacemaker

*Silly

*Happy

*Physically tough with a gentle heart 

*Loves to play rescue bots & Transformers

*Trampoline expert

*Fast

*Great reader

*Obedient

*Quick to apologize and quick to forgive

*Humble

*Close to the spirit

*Tender hearted

*Pranskter

*Giggly

*Ready for any game, race, or competition...more for the fun of it than caring to win

*Glue that holds the younger group of siblings together

Piano Recital

Thomas performed at the Kent State Recital Hall on Saturday in his first recital with Mrs. Bachus.  He played "First Arabesque" by Debussy.  His playing has dramatically improved in just the 12 lessons he has had with Mrs. Bachus.  He has a renewed love and a much deeper understanding and ability to progress.  So grateful for people that make time to share their talents and gifts with our children.

Touchdown!

Flag football season has begun again for Sam.  This year Joel is coaching his team.  I love this time of year because football is such a love of Sammy's that his behavior improves drastically!  He becomes much more responsible and diligent in doing what is expected of him because he wants to keep he privilege to play football.  They had their first game on Saturday.  Although they lost, 12-6, he scored his first ever touchdown...a 50 yard rushing touchdown!  He also played defensive back.  Sam is a quick kid and very hard to catch. I can't wait to keep watching him this season.

All Healed!

After 8 weeks with his cast, Josh was able to experience freedom again!  He actually had mixed feelings about getting his cast off.  I think he  was liking the extra attention he would receive from his cast.  However, once it was off he was so happy.  He said his arm felt like it was going to float away because it was so light!  He is working hard to gain full mobility again.  It was an adventure...one I would be more than willing to not have again!

Updated Pictures

Jacob...1 Year Old

 Mary-8 Years Old

 Spring-12 Years Old