September Smiles

For the first time in a looooooooong time, I have turned the calendar to September and actually smiled a big, huge smile. Although I loved teaching and it will always be a passion of mine, the feeling of knowing that September meant 9 more months of non-stop craziness was never something I enjoyed. It was especially tough to face the beginning of the school year once I became a mom. Knowing that 9 months would pass by before I got good, quality time with my own kid(s) was such a hard feeling.

This year was different. I am officially a mom and subbing just a day or two a week if I get the chance. The amount of stress I would normally feel at this time of the year is equal to the amount of joy I'm feeling being home with my babies just about every single day! I'm trying to figure out some sort of routine (yes, I said it...routine...shocker, right?!?). I thrive on routines and schedules, so this whole freedom of being home has been a bit of a challenge. I like the feeling that on some days there is absolutely nothing to do, but that can also start to get old in a hurry! For now, we're keeping busy by making trips to the library, going grocery shopping, hanging out with neighbors, starting MOPS, cleaning, doing laundry, and just hanging out together...it's more wonderful than I ever thought it would be!!!

Here's a few pictures to help you see just how much fun we've been having and all the smiles that go along with that fun!

Is it ever possible to get two kids to take a decent picture?!?
(Leah, Leah...look at the camera!)

(Okay Caleb, Leah is looking, but what are you doing?)

(Alrighty, you've both given up...maybe another day!)

another wonderful visit with Grandpa, Grandma, and Auntie Kalyn

celebrating the big 21 with Auntie Kalyn...hard to believe she was just 13 when we met

cutest boy in the world

cutest girl in the world

And we'll end with 3 facts about each kid:

CALEB:

1. finally gave up using the pacifier while sleeping (this momma can't believe her baby boy is now the farthest thing from a baby)

2. is super awesome with going potty...can't remember the last time he's had an accident

3. hates to share with his sister....his tricky way of getting toys away from her is to say that he's going to take the toy and "teach her how to use it"

LEAH:

1. wants to be on the move at all times (does so by utilizing the funniest "wounded soldier" crawl I've ever seen)

2. is so over the idea of eating baby food...can I just start eating the yummy stuff you guys are eating?!?

3. has the world's best belly laugh when you really get her going (Caleb tends to get her to laugh more than anyone else)