There are times when everything seems just so perfect. When the screams die down and the anxiety of a little girl passes...this was one of those times. We had the couch bed pulled out for the littles, made all soft and comfy with thrift shop comforters and the felt sandwich kit came out. Hezekiah loves any kind of "toy" food. It's something he can "play" with that is like real life, not something he has to mimic from someone else.

Maggie and him played for quite some time making amazing sandwiches, laughing and smiling. The other boys were in the back room watching TV. I could her some laughter and occasionally the loudness of Waylons excited voice. It was a peaceful night with some music in the air and for once a clean livingroom before bedtime. A moment in time I was glad to share with my amazing kids.

I hope you get some calm after a storm....

Love,
Momma

It's A Kids Life

We don't live in a big metro area with year round schools. What does this have to do with anything? Not much to do that is super local when it's not summer. We are taking full advantage this summer. It's nice to be able to do so, even when my body is just tired. The kids are involved in and will be involved in several programs this summer. It's a life they have always imagined, and so have I.

Comic book store reading club, geography themed craft classes, swim lessons and more. It's fun to know that we are free to do these things, enjoy life and get out into the real world. We go to the library and museums...we get to experience so much. Granted most things are indoors, this is best for Joaquin. The kids do take advantage of the pool their dad bought them and the trampoline. They run over to the park most evenings and play freely.

When people question how I parent or how the kids learn, I get mad. Then I remember that it should not matter what they say. My kids are happy. Sure the floor may have toys on it and the walls need to be washed more often...but, my kids are not robots glued to the tv. They are not meek little minions. They are real human beings, with minds, thoughts and opinions. ...sometimes ones that make me batty. Often they make each other batty... some days way too often.

Love,
Momma

Comic Book Stores and Being You

The older boys started the summer reading club at I.E. Comics yesterday. It's a pretty small group this week but, I'll add two more of my own next week. They can share a trade since they are early/pre-readers. This means I get to read the books to them...woot!

While most 12 year old boys I have come to know would steer clear of paper masks and shields, mine does not. He is true to himself, he is happy with who he is... even when girls his age are around. Why? Because, I want him to know it's okay to be himself, no matter what the situation is. I know he looks angry in this picture but, super heroes don't smile.

I hope that all my kids are comfortable being who they are. That they are not easily swayed to change for someone else, or change their opinions or beliefs. They are pretty awesome how they are, and yes sometimes it can be annoying....but, they are loved anyhow.

"Be yourself; everyone else is already taken."
~Oscar Wilde

Love,
Momma

Update

Tons has happened since my last update. First of all my garden is growing pretty good. Because, of the heat I have a limited time I can only do it at sunup or sundown. Yay pregnancy!

Maggie turned 8! Where the heck has the time gone. She wanted to go to pizza so we did. It was great fun for the family. Later that day we went to Angie's for a graduation party. That night I finally met my friend Jenn. We have been online friends since Joaquin was a baby. It was pretty great!

Hezzie has no speech all summer.........he said goodbye to Miss April.

I am still very tired all the time...it will pass soon...I hope.

Love and Tomatoes
Momma