Happy Birthday Bryan!

This little boy loves to help wash dishes. I can turn on the water just a trickle and he will play for 20+ minutes filling up measuring spoons and cups. And it lets me cook! 

Bryan's brother and family and mom were in town for his birthday last week so we had a busy weekend celebrating with everyone. We went swimming, played at the mall's giant tree house and had gluten free raspberry cake. It was soo good! (Sorry no picture). Then for Bryan's birthday I made him a t shirt quilt with old wrestling shirts and photos. It was a totally suprise and I think he really liked it. It was fun to make something really special for him. 

Eli's new tricks

This little guy has had an explosion of new tricks and words! It's really fun to watch. 

He now will occasionally say "amen" after our meal time prayers. He is very good at folding his arms and sometimes we have to pray 3-4 times during the meal because he keeps setting down his fork and folding his arms ;) 

Today when helping me cook he said "it's hot". That was the first (understandable) sentence I've heard. Usually he just says "hot."

When he can't find someone like dad or something like his blankie he shrugs his shoulders and puts his hands up like saying "I don't know". It cracks me up every time. 

He can point to most body parts: toes, feet, tummy, ears, eyes, mouth, nose, head, and hair. And binkie if it's in ;)

Any time a cartoon theme song is on Eli starts skipping and hopping while waving his arms around his head. I try to get it on video but it's just too spontaneous!

He had two forks and took a bite from each every time! 

I Snuck my phone around the corner to see Bryan reading to Eli. Sweet moment :)

Living Room Quilt

I have been day dreaming about making a quilt for our living room. Not a fancy don't touch kind of quilt but a cozy, soft, snuggle in the couch kind. 

I decided to do a type of hourglass pattern but not so organized. I found awesome flannel prints in 6 colors so I randomly matched up pieces for a random look. The top and back are both made out of flannel and I totally love it! 

I tried a few new techniques this time that really helped my quilt turn out more professional. I used spray adhesive in between the layers to keep it from shifting during the quilting. This worked a million and a half times better than quilting pins. Then while straight line quilting I used a walking foot which helped keep the layers together and not slipping or ruffling. I also machine bound the entire quilt which made it sooo fast! Loved this way! Okay- onto pictures. 

Newport Beach Aquarium

I wish I had more chances to go to the beach and just watch the ocean waves roll in, walk along the wet sand and smell the fresh air.  My mom, Bryan, Eli and I took a quick trip to the beach and checked out the Oregon Coast Aquarium.  I had never been there and it was fun to watch Eli explore everything.  He's at a great age to explore new adventures. 

 

Zoo Lights

One of the evenings in Oregon we went to see the Zoo lights.  It was a fun relaxing evening (except that Eli didn't nap that day so he was slightly less than happy).  Oh toddler troubles.  

 

Bryan was in California for 3 days on a duck hunting trip so he missed the Zoo lights, but we finally scrambled together to get a quick family picture. 

 

 

More of our Merry Christmas

The sight of a Christmas never gets old. I love the soft glow and the quiet it brings to just sit and look at the lights. I can't wait for the day when we have our own home and we can sit jn front of the fire with the lights dim enjoying the peace. Someday. 

The next few days were spent playing and enjoying a stress free week. 

We don't do much for New Year's Eve festivities besides playing games, treats, and movies. Eli started the partying right by running through the house practically naked. But boots were a necessity ;) 

Time for Italian sodas!

Sadly this is the only picture I got with crystal. But a priceless one for sure :)

Brotherly Love

Eli played with my brothers everyday this break. It was so sweet to watch them get down on the floor and color, build trains, play peek-a-boo, tag, or read together. They have tender hearts to be so patient with this energetic little boy! 

Doing a sticker book on Christmas Eve

Eli helping Doug build a little chair 

Playing with trains

Drawing mustaches---I mean, coloring :)

And endless books and puzzles. 

Dear Mr. Eli

Dear Eli,

These past 18 months have been life changing. The love I felt for you when I first met you was incredible. I was in tears the first time I held you, barely comprehending how much I could love you and the joy you would bring our little family. 

This first time mom thing is tough and we've had our bumps along the way but i'm grateful everyday to have you in my life and the lessons you teach me. I wouldn't change one day we've had together and I'm so blessed to be able to stay home with you everyday. 

You have such an excitement for life. There is so much personality packed in one tiny body. I love playing with you and watching you explore new things in the  world. 

You have such a luster for learning an each day brings new things! Today you showed me a red and blue toy and named their colors without help.  You know every animal sound by heart and will point out a dog across the street.  You always want to help me in the kitchen standing next to me on a chair helping stir. Bath time is your favorite part of the day and your giggles while splashing in the tub melt away any stresses I have. You give the BEST lip puckered baby kisses I've ever had ;). You love to give me hugs and cuddle like when you were a tiny little guy. Eating and sleeping may not be your strengths right now but I'll take those if I can have your happy, silly, excited, curious, loving and gentle self. 

Thank you or letting me be your mommy and for being so patient with me as I stumble through being a first time parent. I continue to love you more and more each day and can't even put into words how deeply I cherish you. 

Love always,

Your mom