Ode to Zach

Twas the night before Zach's second birthday
And all through the bedrooms
Kids were scurrying about
And running on fumes.

Mama and Daddy were causing quite a commotion
Moving Zach in with Caleigh
Having gotten the notion
To move Caroline to the nursery.

Pillows, toys, clothes & blankets
Move from this place to that
To beds or in drawers sorted out
As the kids settle down on their new nicer mat

~
In truth the switch was (is) somewhat difficult. Caleigh is used to reading with the light on for awhile. They are used to going to sleep in their own rooms. It's been over an hour and they are still awake and talking. Caroline will be the easy one to switch, we think.

We are so blessed to have Zachary in our lives. He is joyful, strong, gentle, compassionate, loving, smiley, and a wonderful son and brother. We look forward to seeing him grow, mature, and learn.

Early Christmas in PA!

The kids & their parents had a great time opening gifts from Oma & Jochen early (Thanksgiving weekend).

Zach was quite impressed with his tractor/ride on. Caleigh immediately started sleeping with her new Madeline doll. Mama says 'cheese!' Caroline just laid there and looked pretty. She has also worn her newborn sized coming home outfit for the last time...

Going to get our Christmas tree!

We found the perfect tree! A group effort. Kind of cold but a good outing. We also picked up lots of pine branches for our front flower boxes.

More from on the porch &....

...her proud parents. We did manage a self portrait of us on Thanksgiving after the festivities.

Caroline at nearly two months is cooing and smiling and loving attention. She loves her bath - never cries. She likes to flail about on her back. She loves her sibs...and the fan, and lights, and her swing. Fun times.

Sweet Caroline

A little photo shoot Thanksgiving weekend on the big porch.

Thanksgiving 09 in PA

We didn't do too well taking pictures. But we had a great time! Oma and Jochen joined us for the weekend. Neighbors Sherrif & Rhonda joined us for Thanksgiving dinner. Plenty of yummy food provided by all, turkey off the grill (yeah Dan!), and a good time enjoying the kids and each other. A good second Thanksgiving celebration in our house.

Caleigh came to the table the first time we called. ;-) Caroline in her pretty new outfit (thanks Grandma!). Zach enjoyed some of Daddy's tunes before dessert was served (it's good to let the meal settle first). We were thankful the kids were good and the neighbors felt welcome and enjoyed being with us.

Caroline smiling

We are loving her smile! And coos & all her new skills (holding her head high, bearing weight on her legs)!

The middle picture makes me laugh. She looks captured.

Working & resting

All in a day's fun!

Daddy enjoyed his coffee while Zach worked ;-)

The kids and their wacky smiles.