And just like that....summertime.

Its been a tad busy around here- but mostly a good sort of end of the year busy.  Emmeline had her ballet recital. She had such a lovely time at Glenside Dance Academy and was sad that this session ended. She attended the class with two dear friends from church.  Granddad came to the recital which was added fun.  We had a week long celebration of Lena's second birthday with lots of friends and pool time and a fun family birthday party! Papa built a new swing set for the girls and many hours have been spent out back basking in the sunshine and splashing in the pool.  We went to the County Fair and Emmeline and Sam had such fun going on rides together. We won't mention Lena's profound dislike of the event. To top off our busy month of May we spent Memorial Day with Oma and Opa in Lebanon. We've been doing a lot of outdoor activities- the girls have developed a great love of bug searching and many hours are spent turning over rocks and digging in holes. We're learning that its wild rose, daisy and wild phlox season and are gearing up to make strawberry jam. We joined a CSA and though we're making another brave garden attempt, the black walnut trees foil us year after year so we'll see what comes of it.  Two and three are such busy ages. The days are so full and then two little people crash hard at the end of the day. So do the Mama and Papa.

Emmie

There's a not so wee little three year old who is growing and blossoming over night. These pictures document a shift that is both startling and precious. Suddenly we have a little mama, a helper, an intelligent and thoughtful individual who often has well thought out arguments and opinions. I want to remember Emmeline at this age- one of intense discovery. I want to capture her joy and wonder and bottle them up forever. We love you Emmie B.

two

Dear Little One,

You are two. Happy Birthday sweet girlie. It seems rather epic that we've traveled two years since that day when suddenly, after four hours of labor, you were here. It is a marvel that after all those worries from placenta previa, you are a toddler. Lets chat about you now.  You are really something else Lena Sue. You are tender and kind, worried about all the ants and bugs that walk by. You notice the clouds (you call them cows) and the rain storms (you call it smoke). You mind the wind and the cold and the heat. You'd rather avoid car seats (sorry babe), high chairs and anything loud or scary like Papa's new tractor. You are very social. You love people, especially those you know well. You are still a big eater and love meat and soup best of all these days. You are working on your molars and lets just say you're not a happy teether.  Oh my. You are sleeping better now and ask to go to bed.  You are not keen on cuddling right now (never really have been) and prefer Papa for bedtime and stories. You are potty training yourself.  You can be stubborn but your moods usually blow over quickly, unless you are tired or hungry, in which case, you let us know about it. You love Emmeline so much and so desperately want to be like her. You ask for pig tails every day and search for your own undies. You want to play with her big girl toys and snuggle with her.  You love baby dolls and your make believe play has really developed. We love you Lena Lu. Happy Two!