Big Boy, Big Bus

Sometimes the joys of parenting are overwhelming. My cheeks were literally sore by the end of the day. Sure, potty-training is terrible, trying, tearful (for mom). But when that baby of yours overcomes and is successful in even the smallest things, your heart is full (especially when his pants no longer are! I couldn't resist). Sutton has been to the school bus stop to get his cousin, Isaiah from the bus on many occasions. He knew he had to wear big boy pants and keep them dry for an entire day and then he could ride the bus. Well, my friends, he did it! And one the best things about his bus ride is that he was so excited to include his Sissy, his Granny and his Mommy in on the fun. We rode to Target, got some snacks, then rode back home. He grinned and grinned and took it all in...as did I. 

P.S. I would just like to take a moment to say how much I love living near my Mom. She was every bit as excited to ride that germ-ridden, bumpy bus as Sutton and I were. Still so happy every time we get to be together in the little things. I do love that lady.

A Tent, to help you get your ZZZZs

When Nate works nights, the kids and I usually pack up and stay at Granny and Grandaddy's. Well, they are out of town for a few weeks (in Africa, again), so I had to get creative in order to actually sleep without Nate at home. The kids, of course, LOVED sleeping in mommy's room and mommy loved not having them directly on top of me while I slept. Not sure if it was the having them in the same room as me, or the prayers and scripture recitation that helped me sleep. Either way, we were happy campers.

Valentine's Day

We threw out the halloween candy at Christmas, the Christmas candy a few weeks ago and now the lollipops and chocolate have arrived. How is a mom supposed to lose those last pounds of baby weight when there are Reese's Peanut Butter cups/pumpkins/trees/eggs in the house?! Natalie did love every single valentine though. Her sweet little heart just knew every word on every single valentine was chosen specifically for her. 

Lunch Love

I generally don't enjoy the cleaning-out-the-lunchbox-after-school chore. However, after Nate has packed the lunch, you never know what you're gonna find in there. Unlike some late sunday nights where I find yucky, half-eaten ham sandwiches or cucumbers that have gone bad, what I found on this night made me grin from ear to ear. Nate packed Natalie Reese's Pieces with a note that said "Daddy Loves You." I loved the note, I love that she didn't eat every single piece of candy and I am SO grateful for Nate Cook and how he is showing our daughter what love is. Oh, how I love that man. 

A Mattress without a Memory

Luckily, the mattress we chose long before we even knew we were expecting Beckett didn't include memory foam. Otherwise, we'd have a few permanent little 21 inch holes all over the place. 

That's right, baby number 3, in our bed and sometimes on his tummy. :)

New Favorite Photo

Bird's Eye View

Dr. S. Cook

I was seriously thanking God for Granny at this never ending Dr's visit. She held a baby and entertained a 3 year-old like no other! Thank you Granny K!

Bouncy Boy

He's still a little small for the jumperoo, but SO cute sitting upright.

Cookie, the dog

Natalie is convinced Beckett likes her Fur Real pet as much as she does. I think she's right!

Beach Day for Spirit Week at School

Tummy Time

A Mom's Workout

This is commitment to getting in shape. Stroller with one baby in bottom, who needs pacifier repositioned over and over until he falls asleep. Big boy in stroller singing "glory hallelujah" to the tune of God is So Good at the top of his lungs for the entire walk. And girl on bike needing constant attention, questions answered as she rides and help getting up hills! Go Mom, Go!

A Lot to Love

Second Christmas 

And just like that, Christmas is over...for this year. :)