First trip of the year to Living History Farms

One of our favorite places to visit is Living History Farms.

The girls love to go to summer camp there, but we

also like to go and explore on our own.

Today we grabbed our friend Ellen and a warm coat

and headed out for our first trip of the year!

Avery had fun on the pony ride ~

Claire was a little nervous, but still had fun ~

The broomshop put them to work.  They had that

place clean in no time!

Avery loved the horses, but didn't understand

why they weren't paying any attention to her!

Luckily, the pigs and the cats gave her plenty

of attention!

One of Avery's favorite parts was

playing teacher in the school house. 

It was a little cold and a little damp,

but we had a great time at the farm!



"There's no crying in softball!"

That's one of my favorite lines from the movie,

League of their own. 

And, I'll admit, I've said that a time or two to my girls.

Hey, I've never denied that I occasionally live vicariously

through my children and softball is a passion of mine!

This year Claire is playing for the Pirates.

She is lucky to have her Grandpa Johnson coaching again.

He is really working hard with them, and they have come

a long way since their first game.  A long way!

Despite my occasional "ugh" or "come on Claire"

I have managed to enjoy watching her play and

have fun doing it!

Not only that, I've enjoyed watching Ella play

with the "little sister club" that has been formed

by all the little sisters of the team.  Very cute!

Ella isn't playing softball this year, but she's

enjoying her time at the fields none the less!

Batter up!~

Claire has a good bat.  Strong 'breaststroke' upper body!

I have been most impressed with Claire's willingness

to run this year.  She's getting over that "they're looking at me stage"

and is actually running like she means it now! 

Homeplate!

Whether your playing ball, swimming, reading or

just hanging out, I hope you enjoy your time with

your kiddos. 

I am learning to cherish every moment I have with

them and I'm so grateful for that!

God bless!

We are family....

If you want to know who is at the top of the list for Avery,

just listen to her prayers.

They usually go like this, "Bless mom, dad, claire, ella, avery

all the people I know and love, and jack, and baby sophie!"

Sometimes she leaves out Jack, sometimes she leaves out

her sisters, but she never leaves out baby Sophie.

Here's to growing up loving your cousins!

First duet ~

You can see the love in that gentle touch ~

Beautiful!

The girls got to help Sophie celebrate her 1st birthday

with homemade cupcakes and a few presents ~

Well, not sure who enjoyed the present more.....

We love you sweet baby Sophie!