Happy 3rd Birthday Ben!

For his birthday Aunt Teesa took him to Build - a - Bear to create his own stuffed animal. He brought home Slow-Poke his turtle fireman. He loves Slow Poke. Every night we have to take off the fireman gear off so he can go to bed and every morning we have to put it back on.

He had a really cool Thomas cake. It was a challenge to keep the Thomas on the cake.

Big birthday hugs from Ben's good friend Aiden from school.

After the party Ben got to video call with Madgie and Patch and talk on the phone with Mama Kay and Papa.

Here is the big birthday moment caught on tape.

Will you be my valentine?

Abbey got a special valentine from her Patch. She really liked it.

Oopsie Poopsie #1

Here is a good picture for future boyfriends.

Oopsie Poosie #2

Baby due at the end of August. Mom and Familly are doing great!

Bittersweet Parenting Moments

Last night Ben had a major achievement. You might not think this is too fantastic, but I am pretty sure this is rocket science to a 3 year old. At 3 AM Ben got himself out of bed and went and used this potty by himself. But wait there is more! He put all his clothes back on, went back to his room, turned his night time music on, got back into bed, and went to sleep.

At first I was thrilled, but then I couldn't go back to sleep as I kept thinking about all of the other things he is going to learn to do himself, and how soon he won't need his father's help. I guess I now really understand the blessing and curse of parenthood. Every new accomplishment is also a step farther into the world of independence. It just never occured to me until now. I most likely shouldn't dwell on this. Those who know me well know that I am rather moody. I just have to enjoy the time we have to play pirates and cowboys while I still have it, and I can hope that Abbey enjoys being silly with her Dad as much as Ben does.