Evan is a big kid now

Evan, my sweet boy turned 10 on April 14th. He elected not to have a party, and took the money instead. Whew! My parents took him out for a birthday lunch and shopping trip, which is a standing tradition for all the kids, and something that they look forward to. Nate's folks dropped by in the evening with a card and some cash, so he was all set. We even skipped a b-day cake, instead he opted for chocolate pudding with whipping cream. Little Ceasars was his dinner of choice. I have to say that I was very grateful for a low key b-day this year.

Of all my children, Evan is the one that I find myself wondering about the most. His strengths and weaknesses are the most evident of all my children, and my heart is always turned towards him as a result. From the moment that I held him in the hospital, we had an instantaneous bond that was not there with other kids. I was in shock after Austin, with a touch of post partum, and I was very sick and uncomfortable after my c-section with Luke, but Evan was my easiest birth and I was elated right from the start.

So happy birthday to my son, whom I can no longer refer to as a little boy. Once they hit the double digits they are big kids in my book.

Easter 09

We skipped most things traditional this year and ventured out on our own. Normally we have family over or go to their house, but this year we were pooped and decided that a change was in order. We went to church, came home and had leftover hotdogs from the night before, hid the kids baskets on our property, and then watched The Masters all afternoon. We even bypassed coloring eggs for the first time in my life. All in all in was a relaxing day and we enjoyed it, but it felt weird to have ditched everyone, so I don't know if we will do a repeat of this or not.


This is how my kids have to look for their easter baskets

Austin taking a rest after he discovers his basket near this giant beech tree.

The family photos were done with a self timer, hence the close up of the bushes.

Isn't the creek beautiful? I just love coming down here.

Amanda helps Evan find his basket.

I don't think this one is any better, but we only had battery life left for 2 shots at a family photo.