little stairsteps

I love this image I captured of the children on Mother's Day. We were down at the American Tobacco District for dinner. They all lined up (in order) to peer over the railing at the water fountain.

Jack of all Trades

Josiah is wayyyy into his legos lately! He likes to build elaborate, original structures out of his various lego sets. Today, as he was trying to walk downstairs with two such creations in his hands, I reminded him to watch his step. He replied, with the confidence and vocabulary of a much older child, "It's okay, mom. I'm a trained professional."

my heart

I had a sweet early valentine from my little boy...

On Sunday morning, as we were walking down the hall at church, he said to me,

"I love you so much, Mama. I love you so much that sometimes my heart just CRACKS, you know? You crack my heart, Mommy."

Oh, Josiah, you crack my heart, too.

Two Girls in the Woods

Renée and Celeste have discovered a world beyond the backyard, beyond even the woods behind the backyard...a rocky creek bridged by fallen tress, railroad tracks overgrown with time, a steep ravine with ferns for footholds. I am so honored that they shared this magical, secret place with me!

I have heard of a book, Last Child in the Woods, that is about the disconnect between today's children and nature. The premise is that our kids are too busy with homework, extracurricular activities, and video games to venture into the great outdoors. I remember how many hours I spent with my brother and friends playing in the woods when we were children - the mystery and freedom and joy of being in a place that was just for us.

I am very happy for my little explorers!