Ezra turns 4

The girls were such a big help making another special birthday--this time for Ezra. They made signs and gifts and even played "pirates" much longer than usual. We love our now 4 year old boy!!

Dorothy being a good sport and letting Ezra win every pirate attack.

Cinnamon rolls and bacon. Breakfast of 4 year old champions.

At breakfast, Ezra informed me that he does not like cake and only wanted a bowl of ice cream that night. I was happy to cut a few hours of kitchen work out of my day. He was happy to eat plain vanilla ice cream. Win-win.

Tuckered out and snuggled up. I'm glad that he's not too old to love on his baby sister at the age of 4. I will never get tired of these snuggle pictures!

Oh, we sure love this boy of ours. I'm grateful every day to be his mama.

Daddy's birthday!

The kids were all SO excited to create an extra special day for Marty this year, especially because his birthday was on s Saturday and we knew he'd be home all day. They made cards, coupon books, and decorations WEEKS in advance. Their grandma Vieira also help them make handmade gifts. I think they achieved their goal of "extra special." 

Ready for breakfast and gifts!

One of many signs created.

A bookmark--made by Lucy, and a keychain--made by Dorothy.

Ezra painted a picture of a monster.

It was a rainy, yucky day, so we decided a Star Wars marathon was the way to go. 

The day was relaxing, pretty peaceful, and full of love for our sweet papa man. I love these memories, and I love this sweet family of mine.

Feeling It

For the past few months, the idea of blogging has seemed more like a chore than a joy. So I took a little break. But now I find myself missing the opportunity to record and share some sweet memories.

Our winter has been slow in coming this year. We had one good storm, but the majority of it melted off pretty quickly. Back toward the beginning of January we had our first few flakes fall. It didn't amount to anything, but the kids all wanted to celebrate and get geared up.

I never used to enjoy the winter, but I find myself loving the slow pace and quiet indoor activities more each year. 

Dorothy reading a Frog and Toad story to everyone.

Puzzles together.

New artwork for the gallery.

Looking through good books.

Just playing naked. No big deal.

Audiobooks and artwork. Dorothy is drawing her own secret garden while listening to the beautiful book. 

And homemade play dough. Hours and even days of entertainment.

Annie is not too sure about this squishy stuff.

This big kids like to say they work in a cookie factory. 

Dorothy's snake. 

More snow may be heading our way this next week. We're heading to the grocery store today and then getting ready to hunker down a while. We'll be happy to do so.