Happy Birthday to my baby.

It doesn't seem possible that my baby is 1!  September 19th was Nora's 1st birthday.  She happily walked around being the center of attention, which really isn't anything new since she is the apple of everyone's eyes in this house.  She posed nicely for pictures, opened presents, played with cousins, and of course, ate cake.  I couldn't have asked for a better day, or a better baby.  I love you Nora Lynne.

First day of school

This year we are once again homeschooling the kids.  Thanks to a pep talk from our pastor, Josh is now Principle Daddy/Crisp.  He sat down with the three older kids had gave them their marching orders for the year.  I'm excited about this year and so are the kids.  Esther was busting at the seams with excitement before we started.  And Olivia and Garrett were great students on the first day (aren't they all?!?).  

Our non-traditional "first day of school" pictures in front of the house.

No shoes for these kids!

No back packs either.  But lots of smiles and love.

Nora is almost walking and is so happy about it.  I can't believe she's almost one!

Chef Garrett

The kids love to help me in the kitchen.  I let them measure out dry ingredients and pour them in.  Olivia's gotten really good at cracking eggs.  And when all else is done, stirring is always a good job for a kid.  Today I ventured out of those comfort zones and let Garrett cut up some vegetables for our chicken pot pie.  After he washed his hands and the veggies I let him go.  I sat next to him and diced the chicken while he worked on the celery and carrots.  He talked all about being a cook. . .that he was doing so well at cutting up the veggies. . .asking me if the pieces were small enough. He talked about going to a cooking class and making something for me.  And how he would bring home the recipe for me to make too, and it would be really good.  These are the days I want to remember.  Thanks for the quality time buddy, I love you.