San Francisco

This trip was ALL Havanna's idea.  This little three year old had just been begging to go see the Golden Gate Bridge for weeks.  I don't know where she got it in her head, but she was ready to see the world.  For the very first time, we took the rode that drives up a hill just west of the bridge.  I can't believe after my dozens of time in this city that I'd never ventured that road before!  It was beautiful!
We made a quick trip of it, spending most of our time in the hotel swimming pool.  Really, isn't the hotel usually the kids most favorite part of any vacation?  They just love staying somewhere different.  So, my wild hearted Havanna, there it is.  The Golden Gate Bridge.  It seemed to have met all of her expectations.

Not crazy, just fun

Maybe we like the camera a little bit more than we should...

Little Artist

I sat the girls at the table for some paint time.  They LOVE to paint.  I guess because it's so messy.  If it can get you dirty, or destroy something, these girls just can't get enough of it.  They had paint, water, brushes, and.... Paper.  Can you guess what did not get used?  Berlyn yelled from the kitchen as I folded laundry in my room, "Mom!  Do NOT come in here.  We have a surprise for you!!!"  How can I get upset when they are A) being so independent B)  getting along so well?  Havanna sat like a champ for at least ten minutes while Berlyn created this masterpiece.  She actually spelled her own name backwards across her sisters forehead.  That's pure talent.

A Little Nuts

For anyone who knows Havanna, this little girl is the most expressive kid I've ever met.  She wears her heart on her sleeve, and you NEVER have to question what she is feeling.  Her face simply shows it.  We had the camera, and she wanted to play photographer.  Even the book photo was a pose.  Let's pretend that we're really focused and totally loving this story.  Show me... HAPPY!!!

It All Comes Out In The Wash

This is my washing machine.  A disposable diaper ended up in with a load, and I'm left with this very difficult to clean up mess.  At least it's clean.

The Man I Love

I'm guessing this picture was taken in 2005.  Sitting in the grass, thumping my foot to the magical beat and swaying to the music, I had no idea that fast forward a couple years and I would be marrying this man.  Raising four beautiful daughters together.  Seven years in and the sound of his voice still melts my heart.  Happy Anniversary, Nicholas.  You are my gift from God.

Just Relaxin'

I don't know how to clearly convey just how much I love summer.  REALLY.  LOVE IT.  I wish it were always summer.  Now and forever.  Blue skies, warm air, late nights.  No schedule.  Guilt free pajama days.  No thought of school weighing heavy on our minds.  These girls play outside for endless hours every day.  We make fruit smoothies.  We don't comb our hair.  We read countless books.  Play.  Play.  Play.