Bloom Where You Are Planted

A little look back......








My little seedlings are doing some serious growing!

How did this happen?

Ben and I visited a friend's new baby. He was one week old. Side by side, I could not get over the difference in our babies - just 9 weeks apart. How did Benjamin become this chubby, strong baby. Wasn't it just yesterday that he was the tiny, dependent little guy weighing only 6 pounds, 13 ounces? Well, actually Marcey is was 9 weeks ago. But it feels like a flash in time. These images just reminded me to soak it all in because my baby, my babies, are growing up so fast!

Milestone update: Ben has found his hands. He giggles. And he is kicking at his toys. Lily is counting in Spanish. She "mastered" donkey kicks in her gymnastic class (I have no idea?). She can spell her name. And they are both happy little kids - the best indication of success in my book!

Easter

We had a wonderful time in Homestead for Spring Break. We went on many adventures, from the everglades to the zoo and lunch with the ladies. And, we celebrated a special Easter with our newest bunny, Ben. This visit was also super special because the kids got to spend time with thier great-grandmother, "B". Here are some pics from our recent visit:

Spring Blessings

Our Lord has risen, and Spring is here! My own little chicks are growing and changing every day. 

Lily talks non-stop and seems to understand things way beyond her years, such as the cycle of the moon and greater-than/less-than. So she's a smart gal, but one with a wild and wonderful imagination. You never know what story she will tell. She might be going to the moon on a merry-go-round, or riding to a castle on a prince's horse. I love this side of her. I certainly relate to her fanciful stories more than science and math!

As for Ben, well he is just a ball of joy. He has reached many milestones as well recently. He has discovered his hands and tongue, and he is trying to make sounds. If you talk to him, he will imitate you. And he loves to smile! His smile is giant and gets to a part of my heart I never even knew existed! 

I just told Buck that these past 9 weeks have been the best of my life and I am certain I mean it. My children are little pieces of heaven. True gifts from God. I know for sure that God thought to himself, "Marcey - I love you. And I am going to give you the greatest gifts of love you could ever wish for....."

I pray that I might have an eternity with my kids....to enjoy their love forever. And, while I know this is not possible, it would be my only wish if I could have just one!

Why Grandparents Rock!

I found these clips from recent visits with the grandparents. Grandparents are the best!

Which reminds me.....Lily said this in the car the other day:

"Mommy......your job is to do the laundry (gee thanks.). Papa's job is to do the dishes. Ben's job is to poop. Mimi's job is to have candy at her house. Grandpa's job is to take me on walks in the wagon. Grandma's job is to play hide and seek with me in the trees. Grandma B's job is to drive. And, my job is to play with my friends."

Everyone got that?

Sugar, sugar and more sugar:

Learning how to be a diva:

There She Goes

Lily started "big girl" gymnastics this week. It was bitter sweet watching her walk through the doors into the huge gymnasium. She only looked back once and then she was off to join her class. So it has happened. I am now on the other side of the glass wall. I am waiting with the other moms, and she is twirling away - possibly on her way to find a lifelong passion. 

Being a part of these moments makes me so happy - down to my core. But at night, when she is dreary and almost asleep, I just want to kiss her from head to toe and inhale the sweetness that is her youth and innocence. She is perfection. Soft curls. Soft skin. Legs that dont fit in my lap anymore. Arms that drape off the rocking chair when I hold her. 

I wouldn't stop her from growing up if I could. But I do indulge when she falls asleep and kiss her from head to toe. I like to think she sleeps just a little better with mamma's love sprinkled all over her!

Pink Bike And A Bubble Bath

It was a beautiful weekend here in St. Petersburg. We strolled downtown for lunch and spent some quality, and much needed, time around the house. I took a few videos of the kids doing what they do best - entertaining me. From bike riding to bath time, I wish I had every second on film! Time is moving too fast. I adore these children and the happiness they bring me!

I posted a little clip of Ben snoozing, just because it doesn't get much sweeter than a sleeping baby! (note - he passed out in Lily's bed.....don't panic, we did not pass down pink blankets and pillows.)

What Has Ben BEEN Up To?

Snoozing.

Checking out real estate.

Cruisin the streets.

Working on his killer smile. Watch out ladies.

Festival Fun

We're a little bit country, so we headed to the Strawberry Festival in Plant City on Sunday. So did everyone else in the tri-county area! Lily had a blast on the rides. She is quite a little dare devil, taking on a mini roller coaster and the swings. What she does not appear to like it the strawberry funnel cake we ate (photo below)!

It was a beautiful day full of memories. And in the crowd of thousands we even ran into Lily's BFF! 

PS - Ben is not photographed because he slept through all of the excitement:)  

Perfect Score!

Lily started Gymnastics classes last night and dare I say she is a natural? She took to it like it was second nature. Hand stands, balance beam and swinging from the bars - she was strong and fearless. I was shocked at her strength and her near perfect technique! OK, maybe I am getting carried away ..... it was just a sweet mommy and me class. But we may be on to something here! If not, the sparkly leotard is a keeper and the look on her face when she bounced on the trampoline - priceless!

Say Cheese?

I am still trying to get a good photo of Benjamin. But every time I click, he cries or moves or my flash fails. But here is the most recent round of attempts.