Elijah's First Birthday

Our little man is ONE! What a privilege, my son, to be your mama and watch you grow each year. You have a strong yet gentle spirit that is sensitive yet fearless.  I love chasing you around as you explore the world. I love singing to you at night as you cuddle on my shoulder. I love watching you gobble down food like a real man. I love holding your hand as you walk with a wobble. I love your giggle, your smile, and your chatter. It is a joy to be your mother, and I am so thankful each day for you!

You loved your pool party and your cupcakes. You climbed over everything and laughed along with your friends...

Summer Part II

Over June we were blessed to travel to several places. When school let out Memorial Day weekend, we packed our bags and headed out to the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains of North Carolina to visit my mom, stepdad, grandparents, sister and brother-in-law. It was a amazing start to our summer with lows in the 50s and highs in the 70s. It was glorious and beautiful. We took the kids to Tweetsie Railroad where Grace was able to see Thomas the Train live and enjoy kid-friendly amusement rides. Cliff took her on a few spinning ones (ones that would have made my face blue), but she seemed to love it! We also fished, fed the ducks, swam (in a outdoor heated pool - remember this is not Texas), celebrated 30 years with Cliff, hiked/walked in the mountains, visited my sister and brother in law, toured Duke and UNC Chappel Hill University, enjoyed date time in the mountains, ate amazing food, and spent quality time with family. Summers are what make teaching so great!