Around the House 10-04-09

It has still been warm around here with an occasional cool front that may last for a few hours. So on the warm days after it has rained (and over the last ~6 weeks it has rained about 8 inches! PTL) it is nearly impossible to keep the kids out of the mud puddles. Here they are before bath time.....

Martin

Millie

Bella Jane

'Laina Girl

Here is a family shot of all of us at a bounce tree a few days later as we were checking the pasture and cows. Looking at the picture and seeing all those kidos, it is hard to believe they are all ours. What joy they bring. How blessed we are to have such a wonderful papa, Stephen. He is so much fun, lighthearted, hardworking, and a Godly man. We all love him so much!!

Millie is quite the big helper with James. For about 2 months now, she has been readily volunteering to carry James around. At first, I would tell her she needed to be sitting down and I would hand him to her. As the days wore on, I realized what a help it would be if she was able to hold him and comfort him when I was in the middle of oh, lets see...changing diapers, making a meal, holding Elaina, doing hair, folding clothes, or anything that is easier to do with 2 hands. So, she jumps at any opportunity to help with James. I am so grateful! Some might say, at just barely 3 years old she is already holding an infant? She has proven herself quite capable, and most of the time, I have her stand right next to me so I can relieve her at any moment. The only thing now is that James is getting really big really fast and is almost to much weight for her to hold for a long time. None the less, she is there when I need her.

Here is Cowboy Martin. He is so proud to have a horse. He actually handles him pretty well too. Boots occasionally has a little ornery streak in him, and will try to nip at the kids. Stephen has told him that if he ever try's to nip him, to "Bust him right in the nose". Martin holds that rope under Boots' chin and does just that. Boots gets the idea for a few minutes anyway. When Stephen is home, Martin will unhook him from the tether, tie a rope to his halter (like reins) and ride around the yard. Martin sits so proud. He is learning how to turn the horse and make him go and make him stop. He is so cute to watch!!