Our Valentine's

I've never been a mushy Valentine's Day lover.  But two little girls later, I think I'll always be willing to celebrate a day of love.  And chocolate, of course.

Molly:  41 months.  She's in love with all safari animals, especially lions and zebras.  Actually, the smiles you see above are not by request (surprise!), but because I pretended her little zebra toy was attacking my camera ;) Molly's always looking out for Kate, always reminding me when she needs me (or her, sometimes).  She's been saying "Mommy, you wanna see something so cool?!" just before trying out her new somersault.  She's the best. 

Kate:  nearly 3 months:  the girl smiles when she wants, but always when she wakes up- so glad someone came to save her from that crib!  And always during a diaper change (wet diapers are not her thing).  She's not a great napper, but amazing sleeper at night.  She followers her big sister constantly, and loves looking in the mirror at herself.

And I'm back to work tomorrow.  It's not a subject I've been excited about, but it's here.  This is our life right now, so I'm going to try and make the most of it!

Since Ash Wednesday is THIS WEEK (seriously?!!), I'll be giving up social media again- I might update the blog sometimes, just for our reference, but I'm unplugging instagram and facebook again.  Catch ya'll in 40 days!

Two Months

 

She's two months.  Two months we've had her home with us, and it honestly feels like we've known this little soul forever.  I am forever thankful to God for the chance to raise this sweet little girl. And Molly, the most caring big sister.   While I was pregnant with Kate, I remember telling Jesse this baby was going to be my saving grace.  I was struggling with my career away from home and felt so ready for three solid months home--with my children.   And I think I've been granted more grace than I could have imagined.  And this sweet little girl is changing me, forcing me to grow as a Mommy. Because now I've got two girls, sisters.   It's the most humbling and gratifying experience.  I really can't quite explain it.  But I know we're all in good hands.

I'll be off enjoying this sweet, smiling face.  She's trying so hard to laugh now, so Molly and I will be busy telling many a joke ;)

Christmas

 

 Sharing some of our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day photos.  It's kind of embarrassing, but I'm barely able to find a chance to catch Kate's little "birthdays" with my iphone camera, let alone get out my real camera for some good pictures.  I'm hoping to adjust to life with two someday...

As you can see, Molly is quite the little charmer.  Or completely unwilling to cooperate.  I'll let you decide.

We had such a nice Christmas.  It's just the best to see family and friends.  I just hate that it seems to all happen at once, and we're always so pressed for time.   Even a few minutes of visiting can lift my spirits, though, so I'm thankful for each short visit.

As you can see, the girls were blessed beyond measure with gifts.  Molly asked for "an Elsa doll that can talk and sing 'Let it Go'" repeatedly.  And now that she's got it, it hasn't stopped talking and singing "Let it Go'.  Yipee!

Christmas Eve mass was so crowded, as always.  So when the priest invited all children to the front for his sermon, we couldn't even see our free-spirited Molly.  At times, I'd see her head pop up and notice a little grin on her face (they were supposed to be sitting quietly and still, listening to the sermon).  I heard some chuckling amongst the congregation, but couldn't relate.  It wasn't until after mass that we learned of Molly sneaking around the alter, around the organ.  Obviously not following the rules, not sitting quietly, not sitting at all!  I whispered to Jesse-  "that's your little free spirit". 
 I think its amazing to watch the soul inside your own children.  Though I see her each and every day, it's still humbling to see her reaction to a crowd.  And I realize that I love the brave girl she's becoming, but mostly:  she is her father.  Through and through.  :)

We're still hanging out in Santa jams, playing Christmas carols, and eating the last of the cookies this week.  It's so nice to be home for the Holidays.

I hope your Christmas Season is as beautiful as ever!

Merry Christmas.