{PHFR}

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 It's time for another {PHFR} yay! I am really grateful for the Lawler ladies hosting this because if it wasn't for this and the Yarn Along, I might never be motivated to post.  And post I must because blogging is one of those things I appreciate most after the fact.

We have been battling strep and various viruses since Thanksgiving. It has been challenging to say the least. Last week was Sara's 3rd birthday and poor thing was sick! We were all horrified for her. I made these pretty pink pancakes and she didn't even eat any. *sad* We ended up having her special cake this week and she was feeling much better and ready to celebrate being 'free' (that's 3 for those of you who may not be versed in toddler speak)

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 Sara's birthday is on St. Nicholas Day, December 6.  This year he brought personalized mugs and some m&m's. St. Nick loves m&m's I hear.

I also printed out some coloring sheets for the kids and they worked very, very hard on them.

MaryClare fell asleep mid-color she was working so hard. This kid is one amazing sleeper. I must do a post with all of the pictures I have of her sleeping in odd places at odd times.

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My littlest one has cut her first two bottom teeth. There has been much wailing and gnashing of teeth (by those of us who already have them) over this event, not to mention drool. I'm glad they've finally erupted, poor thing.

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We went to a Santa brunch this year at my parents clubhouse and I was able to get a great shot of all the kids together-cue the Halleluia chorus! This will be in the Christmas card and I bet folks will get a kick out of counting heads and realizing that we added another one this year-hee hee!

Thanks for stopping by!

 

Happy 10th Birthday Ryan!

Ryan and Sara last week. She looks so much like him when he was a baby.

Jake was only 14mo. old when Ryan was born, still a baby himself. But when he came to the hospital to visit me when Ryan was born, he looked huge! My Ry was just 6lbs 13oz. He had a sprinkling of dark, auburny hair and a classic English roses and cream complexion. The freckles came later! He gained weight quickly and became a strong and sturdy little toddler with round cheeks and the absolute softest skin. We called him butter baby cause his skin was 'soft as buttah'. He was also nicknamed Danger Baby. Ryan is almost fearless and is full of bold curiousity and as a baby, we could always count on him to find the most dangerous object or situation no matter where we were. He gave and surely still gives his guardian angel a workout! He has always been a people person. He is a friendly and outgoing kid, a total extrovert! We joke he has never met a stranger and he could make friends with a doornob. This kid is a total charmer and one of the most good hearted people I know.

He is a nurturer type, always looking out for the little guys and born leader with a soft heart. The younger kids adore him and even the sibling he fights with most can often be found giggling and whispering with the adored big bro. Lately they have found some common ground and have been getting along so much better. He is a great big brother and he actually likes to help with Sara, asking us if he can feed her, hold her or just play with her. I see him making great strides in his self-control. He is so determined and willfull, two traits that can really try the patience of a mom, but will serve him well as an adult as he continues to learn to apply those strengths in positive ways. I admire that quality in him.

Happy Birthday, my son. I treasure you and I'm so happy that God has put you in my life. You make the world a better, brighter place.

Love, Mom