Abundantly Blessed: October 2014

TJ was a lucky boy this year - he celebrated his birthday twice. Once when John's family came to visit and a second time on his actual birthday when my parents visited. TJ and my dad nearly share a birthday so it was fun to spend it with Dad.

TJ's personality has really started to shine in the past few months. He has always been a pretty easy-going baby, but I have loved getting to know this little person better as he gets older. TJ is very tender-hearted and loves his momma! He lights up when his big sister is around and he makes a point to get into all of her things. I can't wait to see what this next year brings for TJ - God never makes mistakes and looking at how TJ fits in with our family is just another confirmation of how God works. I can't imagine life without my little man.

We started the celebrations off with a trip to our local aquarium with Nana and Pap - so great to share one our favorite outings with my parents.

Dad is great with our kiddos - always willing to get on the floor and roll around with them!

Poor FC had a tough time understanding that sometimes gifts are for other people.

Cake! TJ is definitely not a sweets eater - but he did....eventually....eat his cake.

I have literally been so busy keeping up a house and chasing after my kiddos that blogging has been put way on the back burner in life. I have tried to jot down the funny and tender moments that I want to some day remember, but getting pictures complied and put onto a blog post has simply been beyond me.

In February, we hosted the Seton Mom's for a St. Valentine's party. The house was filled with lots of children and laughter. We are so blessed to belong to a church with such an active parishioner base. The mom's group has given me roots in Texas and filled a pretty needy void. Looking forward to getting to know the women better in the year to come. John was sent to South Korea for his AT this year. When he offered to fly me and the kids to Huntsville I jumped at the chance to spend time with our families. During our stay we enjoyed quality time with the cousins and TJ met many major milestones including sitting up on his own, crawling, and cutting two teeth! I look back now at pictures and video from that trip and it blows my mind how quickly the time goes. Felicity also experienced her first snow...In Texas of all places!!

My Dynamic Duo in action:

She definitely has a flair for the arts - music, coloring, dancing....all favorites right now.

Little Man's safe place. Ha!

Scratch that...it was his safe place!

My babies love to be outside.

A girl an her dirt - captivating.

First ride together in the big "choo-choo train" cart. Poor FC is having a bad hair day.

Playing in the backyard at Nana and Pap's.

FC and Cousin Matthew were able to have a fun adventure together at the Early Works Museum during our visit. They had a blast!

TJ and Cousin Natalie getting to hang together.

April - Felicity turns TWO!! She had her very first birthday party complete with sweet friends and cake. It was zoo themed since she is in love with all animals. We were lucky enough to have my parents and Aunt Ashley and Natalie with us as well. Such a fun-filled weekend. FC is my fiery-spirited little girl. She marches to her own drum beat and brings such joy to my heart every day. I can't believe my baby girl is already two! Looking at the pictures from the April file and I love seeing my children's relationship blossom. They generally fight like cats and dogs right now, but they also can't stand to be apart. Hopefully they will always share a close bond.

Bath time is a family favorite!

FC and her books. She looks so tiny here - just about 6 months ago. Her Uncle Matt and Aunt Katie sent her an "Annie" dog that she still cherishes.

TJ looking so handsome in his nautical bubble. Love a chubby legged baby in white shoes!

It was absolutely awesome having Aunt Ashley, Cousin Natalie, and my parents here in April. 900 mils is simply too far apart!

FC was given a play kitchen for her birthday! It was a huge hit.

Easter in Texas - this year we attempted Keller's Egg Drop with the kids. While there were not many eggs to be had the kids enjoyed playing at the park and walking the trails.