More Biking Pics

Luke loves riding his bike
View of Big Creek from the bridge
Pretty much sums up the day!

Biking Pictures

The crew getting set to go!"Mommy, what's this on my head?"
Luke leading the way
Sarah on her "princess" bike
Crossing one of the bridges along the trail

Adventure in the Woods

On Sunday we ventured out on the first day of fall (0r was it summer?) It was about 87 degrees, but at times it felt like 100! It took ALL morning to get 2 parents, 3 children, 4 bicycles, 5 helmets, 4 water bottles, 1 child seat attachment ,1 backback filled with baby supplies, snacks, first aid kit ....... just to name a few! We also had a FEW setbacks....... ant invasion in our kitchen, overflowed toilet, child "accident" on the way to the potty, flat bicycle tires, bike rack not fitting our new van (I think the last time we used the bike rack we had a honda civic and toyota corolla....it has been awhile!), adjusting van to put bikes inside now, cranky kids, cranky parents, no naps, etc..... Definitely one of those memorable moments that will be etched in our brains for a long time...... hopefully one of those ONCE in a lifetime kind of moments. However, I am beginning to realize that our lives with three little ones might just be this crazy at times..... thankfully, God is able to work through even these kind of moments. Thank you, God, for your overwhelming love, patience and mercy......

Well, our day ended up being a success after all! We got to the trail and after getting everyone ready (helmets on heads , water bottles situated, properly seated on bikes) we headed into the woods. It was a beautiful shaded trail with lots to see........several bridges, creek to admire, benches at crossroad to take water breaks, fairly flat, etc..... Luke took off and ended up being our leader most of the time, while Sarah took her time and was quite content being the caboose. Andrew.....well, you would have never known Andrew was with us.....he sat behind Daddy in his seat and hardly made a peep. In fact, at one point, the helmet (which was way too big for his head ) completely covered his face. We don't know how long he rode like this, but it didn't bother him a bit.....he just peeked his eyes and nose out of the vented holes that were supposed to be on the top of the helmet. Can you tell that he is a third? He learned quickly to roll with the punches and only cry when hungry or hurt.... definitely the most laid back child of the bunch! I think that is called survival mode. I definitely could take a few pointers from him after our morning!!

The children really enjoyed our "adventure in the woods" and keep asking us when we will go back....... still not sure what my answer is on that one...... the good moments definitely outweigh the headaches......I guess I better clean up my bike and get ready for lots of "adventures in the woods" for my future. But I wouldn't trade them for anything in the world!!!



Stay tuned for pictures soon.....

It's Luke's Turn

It's finally my turn! Gotta show little bro my new class


Luke started 3 year old preschool last week. As you can tell from the pictures, he was excited that morning until we got to school. He was a little apprehensive (I could tell by the expressions on his face and the amount of thumbsucking he did), but he had no problem saying good-bye once the time came for me to leave. He has two wonderful teachers, and I know that he is going to have a great year:) I am truly enjoying my time with him and Andrew as well. He goes to preschool three mornings a week, so I have him and Drew the rest of the time. I know that in a blink of an eye they will be all grown up. The other day at the grocery store a woman came up to me and gave me some advice. She told me her two boys were in their 4o's now and she wanted me to know that the time I have with them right now is one of the most precious. She told me to be sure to let go of the "small stuff" and really relish this time in their lives. What great advice! I have definitely spent a lot of time over the last two days playing and truly enjoying these "young years."

First Day of School

Well, it finally happened....my little baby girl started kindergarten. At the end of the day I asked her what her favorite part was and she told me that a little girl shared her dessert with her. Definitely a way to win Sarah's heart (and friendship) everytime......dessert!!

It is truly amazing how fast these last five years have gone by. To my surprise I did not shed a tear that first day until I parked my car later that morning at the YMCA and asked my little three year old if he wanted to go in and play at the playcenter. He has never once complained of going......except today. I turned around and tears welled up in his eyes. "Mommy, I miss Sarah," and tears started streamming down his face. Well, the tears started flowing freely at this point.......his best friend and playmate had left him for kindergarten......after LOTS of hugs and kisses he decided that he could go without her. Definitely a big "first" day for Luke as well....the first day without his big sis. Needless to say, he was sooooo excited to welcome her home that afternoon. I think he realized that she was not going away forever, just for a few hours.........

Daddy is 33!

Sarah and Luke give Daddy their cards
Daddy's New "Mexican-style" Jacket?
The Real Jacket
Yes, that's 33 candles!
The fam at Grandma and Granddad's House

We had a wonderful day celebrating Daddy's birthday at Grandma and Granddad's house. What a feast! Happy Birthday, Daddy!!! We love you sooooo much:)

Papa's 60th

Papa and his Girls on his 60th Birthday
Aunt Kristen and Susanna Kristen
The Cousins
"Gramie, that cake looks delicious. Is it time to eat yet?"
The Grandkids helping Papa with the gifts

Happy Birthday, Papa!! We hope your 60th was a special one. We love you so very much.

The Shaw Kids

This is one of my favorite pictures of the three munchkins......let's see if I can actually get this to post correctly!