Caution: Lots and Lots of Photos Ahead

Because seriously, every time we take family photos we have at least a few like this:

But look at how precious these girls can look when they're threatened/bribed/begged.

Never mind

Apparently, the thought of any sign of emotion between Mom and Dad was comedy gold.

And only our die-hard romantic found this shot appealing. 

But seriously, do you see how sweet my tiny ballerina is?

Particularly when contrasted with her ornery big sister.

I honestly have no idea what our sis-in-love/ photog extraordinaire had to do to get this shot.

And this one is looking WAY too old for this mama's heart.

Ohmygoodness, I'm buying more shotguns and ammo and door locks.

And she was so sweet to help her little sister with her accessories.

Now, the outfit is perfect.

And this is what was happening directly behind the photographer.

We made sure to get shots of just us sweethearts.

But it's really hard to not crack up when you're trying to act romantic in front of a camera, your kids, and your sis-in-love.

And then we were attacked by the minions.

But we did get this precious shot, which made the whole morning worth it.

Oh, and this.  Hubba hubba!

Our little divas struck a pose.

Jerome practiced his pensive look.

And then got a few head shots for work.

My hearts flips for this precious shot of a daddy and his princesses.

And the sweetness of their love.

And the goofiness of their relationship.

Well, two out of three isn't so bad 

Oh my goodness, this one was full of piss and vinegar that morning!

But, finally, we were done!

Seriously, my sister-in-law is amazing.  You can check out her stuff online at Sunflower Eyes Phototgraphy.  

This photo shoot is our family.  It is our life - giggles, goofiness, sweetness, and love.  

Catching up

So, here's what this crazy crew has been up to lately:

We've learned about the human body by building them.

Mom went to an 80's party and ROCKED IT!

Madi started gymnastics.

Violet started ballet.

And Nina started jazz dance.

The dog got dressed up...

A few times...

Ok.  This happens more than I should admit.

We officially became sponsors for our favorite balloon crew,

And got to chase/crew for them at two different rallys.

We got all dolled up in support of our favorite team,

Then had to share in the pain of defeat.

Madi confirmed my suspicions that we will need good health insurance for her later in life.

I made chocolate covered strawberries.

Jerome made crepes.

Violet made me cry.

Translation: "God is coming down to me.  I believe in God. One day I saw God, so I'm now in peace and I have faith in God."

The snow (finally!) made me attempt to be a photographer.

And my sweet kitties getting along made me smile.

And I wonder why I'm so tired at night!

Summer is...

Baseball

Hammocks

Sidewalk chalk

Memories

Snuggles

Friends

Creativity

Giggles

Smiles

The chance to be a kid

Day 5: Back To The Grind

Well, we survived the first four days. I pretty much spent Thursday and Friday sleeping on the couch. Jerome was AMAZING and took the kids swimming, to the museum, on adventures, and generally did everything.

Saturday morning a dear friend picked me up and we went to a baby shower. When we got home, I was so light-headed and nauseous I almost collapsed. After spending the rest of the day like that, we realized the pain meds were doing more harm than good. So we ditched them.

Sunday was great, with church and fro yo mixed with naps. And no puking.

And today, it's back to the grind. We have 2 more weeks of school, so the girls are gathered around the coffee table while I'm on the couch. Jerome is is going back and forth between home and work, and the cats are pestering the dog.

In other words, life is returning to normal. Although we still aren't sure what color cast I should get tomorrow. Stay tuned for the big reveal!

Summer in Review: May

Another summer is almost gone. 

Another summer full of memories.

Memories that I don't want to forget.  Moments in the lives of my children that are far too fleeting.

 

I am going to remember.

Remember branding calves

Yes, that is blood and guts dried on my neck.  Lovely.

And enjoying a treat while watching the big boys play soccer.

I want to remember the pouty faces when the lifeguard makes us get out for a break

And save this photo to use as blackmail someday

I want to remember my adventurous little climber

hanging out with friends

and playing card games together.

I want to remember the joy of exploring trains with friends

 

and guns for Mommy

 

I need to remember sweet notes left on the table

and a big girls first baseball game.

Because sometimes, the best memories

Are the ones that happen purely by chance.