A new gun!

First bonfire for the year.

They dynamic of our bonfires have changed so much in the last years. My sitting and having my feet up may not have changed much. But, now the boys are helping a ton.

Our new neighbor friend is sure cute . . .and just terrifies some of the boys. We are getting used to a dog . . .someone else's thank goodness!!!!!

Yes, smores. I did say it was a bonfire, right?!

Finally, outside for Lukas . . . he just loves it.

A couch.

"Really, a couch?" Some of you might be thinking, "she is blogging a couch?". Well, this is so much more. God is a God of detail and I had to take this picture of my nephews helping bring it home under a rainbow. God gives us more than we can ask or think.

Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Portland for the weekend

Doug and I had a night away to celebrate! I don't even know how to put into words how much work Doug has done these last years and we really were excited for him to pass his licensure exams. I am so proud of you and can't put it into words, Doug. Love you so much!

School help

As I mentioned, it is hard keeping everyone happy during school hours. So, Lukas found a new favorite thing: a sympathetic and loving big brother. He really likes being held CONSTANTLY.

It's a hard life around here.

During school some days sometimes it is hard for the little boys to keep entertained. Here is an example!

Tight spaces

We keep finding Lukas wanting to be behind the couch, in between the bed and the wall, well . . . just in tight spaces. Here he is nice and cozy.

Saturday bathroom clean

I don't believe I am a slave mom, but it occurred to me that I kept cleaning a seat that was not exactly my issue. So, we have a new system and lots more help in cleaning the bathroom. My theory isn't working too well though, just as long as their future wives know I have tried hard.

Oregon

Titus has something in his eye, but I believe the phrase was, "Leah, take the picture."

Check out Darius too in this pic, if you can get your eyes off Titus's "muscles".

Lukas was so excited to have a swimsuit on.

Shower Gifts

As someone said "is it blogging or bragging?" Well, I am trying to use what I learned at our Mom's group last month for a little extra special love put into a shower gift. A friend's blog has inspired me to be a little more domestic to say the least.

The Park

Try "I Spy" or "Where's Waldo?" All I have to say is with Lukas at my side it is still stressful keeping an eye on 4 at the same time. What a fun park 5 minutes away though.

Dentist trip!

After over 3 hours . . . we had 2 teeth pulled, all were cleaned, flouride treatments, several sealants, I even heard the words from Titus, "be brave, Darius." There was lots of gagging, a few tears, and several tokens for bravery. They should have token machines for the moms too. Thank goodness for Grandma who kept the younger two.

Sat. Ballgames

Noah and Abby had b-ball games and we got to watch. So fun! Thanks!

Gotta love him.

Leaman Art

Date night . . . for mommy and the boys

A little card playing. . .

A little entertainment . . .

Lots of relaxing. And mommy was happy too!!!

Titus

My little chef (yes, I am letting him use a knife). He worked diligently and absolutely impressed me.

So, he is always impressing me.

Special time with mommy

I was trying to teach him to love Starbucks. You just keep trying till they love it.

See, he loves it. Now I have an excuse to go. "Doug, the boys just needed a Starbucks." Do you all see how that works?

Uncle's birthday lunch. I think the balloon was for Uncle.

King for a week. All the hugs, snuggles, food, and attention. I did get to go to Indy to see my family, although I didn't get any pictures except of Lukas. I forgot the camera charger . . . I really thought I hadn't forgotten anything that morning we left (not that I was excited to leave or anyting?!?) Doug spoiled me and let me have a week of vacation. Amazing timing as well, the boys all the got the flu the day I left. We owe an official "thank you" to Grandma and Aunt Carol. . . you are amazing. And to Aunt Sandra, "sorry." And to Doug, "I love you dearly and thank you for spoiling me. I am ready to go again." And to Greta, "It was amazing to see Caleb. I love you."

Boy cousins

We definately didn't get enough pictures . . . but Lukas seemed so photo happy whenever the camera came out.

This was some cousin bonding time --ya know, his back to Caleb. Their first time out together for Mexican. They were thrilled.

Monkey see, monkey do.

Wow, real fun and so fun to have a pal willing to do all the work. "Thanks, Drake!"

Rubber ducky

I couldn't help but laugh. There will be benefits and there will be trials being boy #5. He sure didn't seem to mind. He got lots of attention and everyone seemed so happy and giggly.