It's a Christmas Miracle

I'm back.  No apologies.  No excuses.

Just wanted to introduce you to another beautiful little blessing given to us.

Olivia Brooks was born on October 21.





She charged into this world, produced a birth story that won't easily be forgotten, and wrapped the entire clan around her finger in a matter of minutes.









This girl is pure sunshine.  I am in love with her.

And the kids are so in love with her as well.  Especially the boys.  Go figure.

Remember this guy.



He tormented the twins for a solid year.  Literally.  I would have to lock the babies inside their bedroom for their own protection if (God forbid) I had to tinkle.

But now he is a gentle and kind big brother.  He loves sweet Olivia to the moon and back.  And he will often come over while I am nursing her, put his arm around me, and slowly exhale, "Mom, I'm so glad you were pregnant."  Me too, buddy.

Another Season

It's been almost a full year since I last posted on this blog.  That doesn't mean there have been no posts drafted or great intentions.  But life has gotten the best of me.  Not in a bad way, just in an honest way.

I'm not sure what has kept me from posting regularly.  Priorities? Insecurities? Laziness? A search for clear vision or purpose? Probably a little bit of all of those. And add in 14 weeks of extreme morning all day sickness, and I think we've found the answer.

But it definitely hasn't been due to a lack of content.
This crew provides a massive amount of material to entertain the masses.

I have loved documenting the crazy that is our family's life story.  Full of love, disappointment, blessings, sorrow, adventure, abundance, lessons, and so much laughter.






Every time I relay one of our "learning moments" with the kids, someone always says, "I hope you're writing this stuff down!"



We think we'll never forget the time our son tried to steal the bread during communion.  Or Caleb's much talked about vacation high point of having unlimited "Hick" to drink. (Not to be confused with the
familiar Hi-C.)

But, with this family, I'm afraid there are just too many highlights for my aging memory to hold on to.




So I am purposing to find more time in front of this decrepit computer to capture our family's adventures and reflect on the beauty that is motherhood.

And I think this little surprise blessing may be hankering for a few shout outs too.  We are excited to meet her in October, and the kids are busy choosing her name.  (Heaven help us all.)