Dodge Street (this really has nothing to do with the post...Will gave it this name).

Another year gone by (all too quickly, in my mind), and we now have a 4-year old. As of a few months ago, both Dave and I, as well as several family and friends, made the observation that Will suddenly seemed a lot older...truly a "big kid," and no longer a "big boy," if you know what I mean. From the way he carries on conversations, to the way he interacts with other kids, and how he responds to discipline and instruction, seemingly transformed over night. I know it's cliche, but I can't help but state how fast the past four years have gone. It honestly does feel like we just brought him home from the hospital, and yet, here we are...starting him in his first year of school (well...sort of).

It's not officially school, per-say, but close enough, so that's how we refer to it. I'm continuing with my CBS (Community Bible Study) for the 4th consecutive year, which gives Will and Graham two hours to be with other kids their age, and also benefit from some wonderful Biblical teaching. Even though it's only for a couple hours each week, it's a great introduction to what school will be like when they do start. I like that it kind of eases them into it. And of course, I love to have that time to soak in the Word and be refreshed as well.

In addition to CBS, I also enrolled Will and Graham in our local Mother's Day Out program. For now, we opted only to do 1/2 days (9:30-12:30 on Fridays), but I'm thinking that next semester I'll transition them into the full day program, which goes until 2:45. Because of the name, I had always thought it was more or less a baby-sitting service, but it's actually very structured. They have teaching times both scholastically and biblically, work on writing letters, arts and crafts time, recess, and also kidnastics - which the boys seem to love. I pack lunches for them, and drop them off with their backpacks filled with everything they need for the day.

As to be expected, Graham had a tough time the first day I dropped him off, but his teachers said he did great. And Will was so cute...he couldn't get into his room fast enough. As I was signing him in, I looked down and realized he was no longer standing next to me...he literally raced right to his class, sat down with his classmates and joined right in on the story they were reading. We've been so proud of how well they've done with such a big step!

We once again, kept the birthday party very low-key. It was fun to celebrate with my parents when they were in town, and then we decided to keep it to a small group of family and friends on his actual birthday, which was on Friday, August 19th. We grilled out burgers, and everyone pitched in a side item, which I greatly appreciated!

As you may have guessed it, the theme of the day was matchbox cars...his most favorite thing to play with. I decorated the table the night before, so when he woke up the morning of his birthday and saw it, he was really excited. He still takes a nap during the day, but the excitement was too much for him that he couldn't fall asleep. It was pretty funny to watch him almost be in pain with anticipation :)

Will has expensive taste when it comes to cars. With no persuasion from us, he has long declared the Range Rover Sport as his favorite vehicle. Dave found a die cast model of one online, and bought it for him...he's borderline obsessed with it. We also got him a BMX bike with training wheels...so far it doesn't even compare to the Range Rover - ha!

Graham is starting to talk and express himself more and more every day, which is both good and, well, not-so-good. He certainly has very strong preferences, and isn't afraid to voice them. He can be a stinker, but sometimes it's hard not to laugh, because he's just so darn cute about it. Many have made the comment that he's gonna be a heartbreaker, and I think they're right. He loves to wrestle, tackle, and play rough, but deep down he is a sweetheart...very tender. Will and Graham are so gentle with Macy - I have been amazed. We knew Will would be that way, but didn't necessarily expect it from Graham, so that has really surprised us.

Macy has truly won our hearts. She has been an absolute doll, and we're gathering that she's going to be quite the socialite. She absolutely loves activity, and loves interacting with others. She gives out the best smiles, and fights sleep tooth and nail when we're anywhere other than home, because already she seems distressed about missing out on anything! Macy has been a very content baby, and it has been such an answer to prayer...we are enjoying every minute with her, and are excited to watch her grow!

Dave and I celebrated our 9th anniversary on September 7th. I feel so lucky to be married to my best friend; someone who makes me laugh and doesn't take life too seriously, and who is spontaneous, yet thoughtful at the same time. I am so proud of how hard Dave works, and am grateful that he is in a job that he enjoys - what a blessing! I am also very thankful that he is a man who fears the Lord, and not man...what a wonderful example and gift to our children (and me, too)! Dave is so great with the kids. I am amazed at how well he rolls with the punches having 3 kids 4 and under. I love you so much, babe, and am excited to see where the next 10 years takes us :)

what a sweet little face

This was last week while Dave was traveling for work. The boys love to play football with Dave, and Graham kept walking around with the football saying, "Daddy." So sweet.

Dave showing Will the ropes with his new bike.

The beautiful flowers that Dave sent me for our anniversary while he was out of town :)

We feel beyond blessed to have three beautiful, healthy children, and continue to ask the Lord for health for them, wisdom and discernment as we try to figure out this whole parenting responsibility, and most importantly, that they would come to know Jesus Christ and trust Him at a young age. We love you, Will, Graham, and Macy...so very much!