2013 garden

This year has been a little different as the weather was tricky to start. So far we have had a healthy batch of zucchini, radish, sweet peas and lettuce. Cantaloupe, orange peppers, cucumber, onion, tomatoes and strawberries to come. The zucchini I had labeled as squash so a few got a bit big before I figured things out. See the picture of Maleah below. She loved how big her zucchini got!

Summer school

I decided to do some homeschooling this summer to both see if I might like it and help the kids retain what they have learned this year. It has been key in our home routine and I am surprised that my lesson plans of about an hour are well tolerated. This kids have had so much fun, and I've enjoyed my time with them as well. Often the kids will request more work later in the day. That makes me smile. Here are a few pictures of some of our art projects and work. I'm looking forward to finishing strong!

Secret note

Dave made it to Dubai on June 4 and we were given instructions to stretch the hose to the driveway and spray. Once it was wet a very sweet note appeared "I love you". Awe. I love the thoughtfulness of my sweet hubby and that the note is still there every time I pull into the driveway.

Goodbye for the last time

June 3, 2013- We held our breath and spent the day acting as if it were any other. Even though we all knew that at 5pm that night we would hug for the last time for three months. I really thought it would get easier each time. In perspective, I suppose there was less tears and more chatter filling the usual drive home from the airport. Though it didn't change the sick feeling I had all that evening. This is such a challenge in our family. And one that stretches my character for sure! It was nice to have Dave home for a few months to catch up, but to be honest it just made it harder in so many aspects. I am really praying that over this past year we have learned and grown in a godly fashion and that God has something more "normal" in store for us. I will never again take for granted my family unit as it was, yet I know that this whole experience was a blessing from God in packaging I didn't want. Thankfully he knows what we want and need.

Happy (early) 2nd Birthday Maleah

June 2, 2013-Since Dave leaves for Afghanistan tomorrow, we wanted to go ahead and start the birthday festivities so that he could be a part of it.  I cannot believe that our little girl will be 2 this month. Though, each day she reminds me that she is with her new found independence!  A few of our close friends joined us for a fun filled pizza party to celebrate followed by ladybug cake.  (This was most everyones first time eating ladybug--it was quite good!) Maleah enjoyed the celebration and made out well, including a bubble machine, scooter and princess lawn chair. Needless to say she left the party (frosting stained lips and all) and took a very long nap!

Cone of shame

Cora got fixed and of course she had to wear the "cone of shame" for a couple of days.  Noah thought it was pretty cool.  Here he is showing Cora that "its not that bad!"  I still don't think it convinced here otherwise.

My crazy kids

Need I say more?  

Handyman Noah at your service!

Maleah likes to wear mommy's clothes

Stars Game

The boys went to a Huntsville Stars game.  This is one of Noah's favorite places to go.  I am not sure if it is the game or the fact that dad lets hime eat candy.  Hmmm....

Noah and Ryan 

Ha Ha I have candy!

Chattanooga

We spent the day in Chattanooga a few weeks ago and we sure had a good time.  This trip we decided to take the kids on the "Duck boat ride".  Noah was very impressed that not only could it drive on the road, but it could float on water.  It was a beautiful day for floating on the river and for spending time walking around downtown.