Lauren is 5!

Dear Lauren,
In the moment you were born, we were changed forever. On that day, we learned that another level of love was possible, and five years later, that love is only growing stronger. As we watch you learn about your world, we're overcome with pride. Your curiosity is insatiable, and your smile, contagious. Nurturing others is your special gift, and it's obvious in the way you care for your baby sister. You're our little scholar, cuddle bug, and star performer. Someday, far too soon, we'll long for these days, but until then, we're soaking up every minute. Happy birthday sweet girl, and thank you for lighting up our lives.

Gone Fishin'

On my dad's birthday, we took Lauren and Kaitlyn fishing at a small, private pond. What a great day! In this picture, Papa is teaching Lauren the great art of casting. No push-button reel for this girl!Lauren has been fishing before, but this was the first time she had casted, set the hook, and reeled all by herself. Here's her first official catch.

Looks like a pro, doesn't she?

Proud mommy. She reeled in one blue gill after another, while poor Kaitlyn just couldn't get a bite.
Until...
How's that for a first fish? To be clear, that striped bass was her first fish EVER! Her own mom has never caught one. What a great memory it will be for us.

Easter Fun

Our Easter was packed with family and fun this year. Check out everything we did!

Lauren was so excited to color the eggs. "What is this for?"

The girls took a break from hunting eggs at Nana and Papa's house to play on the swing set. I think they could do this all day (if Daddy keeps pushing.)

Finally his turn.

Found one!

Lauren and Kaitlyn love spending time together.

Planting flowers with Papa.

On our way to GG and Pop's house for more egg coloring and hunting. The fun hasn't even begun and both girls are fast asleep.

Swinging with Pap and listening to his harmonica.

Easter lunch with the Glasgows.

We topped off our visit by celebrating Micki's 88th birthday.

Sami's 2nd Birthday

Dear Sami,
You are a bright and beautiful child. An independently minded little girl that challenges us and makes us love you even more. Already, we can see that you move to your own beat, and we hope you never lose that. The affection you have for your sister makes us melt, and the way you've perfected "the tattle" makes us laugh. You're the sloppiest eater we've ever seen, and one of the greatest sights we've ever laid eyes on. We savor your hugs, tiny kisses, and sweet little voice. When we hold you, we want to freeze time. But then we'd miss out on the incredible person you're becoming every day. For all of these reasons and more, we love you. Happy birthday Samantha.

Table Manners

Before...

After...

Best Buddies

As we watch our girls play together, we're overwhelmed with pride. They're the best of friends and truly love each other.

In this picture, they're getting ready to play in the snow...by licking the cold window. The laundry baskets have become one of their favorite toys. Lauren doesn't even mind that Sami can't push her.

Just hanging out and watching a movie. They often end up in the same chair.

The day we brought Sami home, she became Lauren's baby.

Beyond lucky...don't you think?

Snow Angels

What a snowy February it's been! In the past two weeks, we've had three snow days. The girls and I have tried to make the most of it. Take a look at what we've been up to.

"I'm ready Mom!"

"Wait for me!"
Right back at you, baby.

An angel in more ways than one.

Sampling the snow, but not sure she's a fan.

I couldn't get this one to stop though!

Snowball fight!

"I'll show you, Lauren!"

The wind up...

...and the hit.

"MOOOOOOOOOOOM!"

Showing some love to the snowman.