Changes

So Paul and I returned safely from Wisconsin earlier this month.  Originally, only Paul was going to help move his parents back to their hometown; but thanks to my dad offering to watch the kids, we were both able to help.  After three days of driving through some pretty heavy rains, we finally made it.  I was so glad to have been able to go and meet some of Paul's extended family--plus it was nice to have spent one more week with his parents.  Luckily, the weather cooperated while we were unloading the u-haul and we were able to get his parents' apartment looking like home.

 Paul and his Grandma Kohl...she is such an

awesome lady - and a heck of a dice player.

 My mother-in-law, Julaine, and Paul's aunt Marian having fun playing dice.

I love this picture of my father-in-law...rolling his

eyes cause his sister is about to beat him in dice I'm sure.

 The week we were there went by too quickly...we enjoyed our time with the family so much.  Unfortunately, when we left, we had to leave two of the most incredible people behind.  David and Julaine - we miss you so much and will be forever grateful for being able to learn so much from you.  We were truly spoiled by having you so close to us for the time that we did...and we plan to visit again as soon as possible.

While we were away, the boys had a full week with Poppi (my dad) and he did not disappoint.  Thankfully, there was a few nice days here in the valley and dad was able to play ball with them.  He took Ben to his t-ball games and Gavin to his track meets.  It was definitely a lot easier for Paul and I to leave when we knew the kids were in good care....however, I think after the week, Poppi was ready to give the job back to us.  :)

Gavin had Field-Day at school a few weeks ago and won 2 of the races.  Those wins moved him up in the 'bracket' to race against kids from other Nampa schools...during which he won in the 4x100 relay.  This moved him up to race in the All-City Elementary Track Meet against kids in not only Nampa, but Caldwell and Vallivue as well.  Paul and I were finally able to go to this meet.  (Unfortunately, he placed 2nd).  He had a blast, though, and is talking about joining track once he gets into Middle School.

 Proud Runner...and not even out of breath

Benjamin has been busy with t-ball this spring and if you have never watched, I highly recommend it.  Watching kids in their first year of any sport is very entertaining...and sometimes very frustrating.  I commend those that can coach such young children.  Ben is actually the oldest on his team, so this was both his first and last year in t-ball.  It has helped to teach some basics of the game though and he should have a better understanding for next year when he plays baseball.  He has been enjoying himself for the most part...although the weather this year has not been the most ideal for playing.

 Hitting hard and making it safely to 1st base

Jacob has been trying to enjoy the weather...when it actually cooperates.  He's been able to go to the zoo several times this spring and both we and Poppi have taken him and the rest of the clan to some playgrounds.  He recently found my stamps and has decided they are just the thing to let his creative juices flow.  Earlier this week, he came running into our room at 1am and we discovered that he was running a fever with 104* temp.  The following day, it would go down, only to spike up again.  Poor baby was stuck indoors for a few days until I was sure the high fever was gone for good.  Today, he finally had a decent temperature for the entire day...yea!  Sure hate to start off summer break with a sick kid. :(

 

Jacob feeding the goats during one of his trips to the Zoo.

Miley has also been trying to enjoy the weather lately.  It amazes me how much more independent she becomes everyday.  This time last year, we were still pretty much toting her everywhere...now she is able to play in the backyard with her brothers and away from mommy and daddy.  It's bittersweet to see all of my children grow so quickly.  Miley has been obsessed with her baby dolls lately.  She will rock them to sleep and protect them from dogs and big brothers.  It's very abnormal for me to watch since I was never really the baby doll girl growing up...I admit I like to tease her with them.  We make a game of it and then she'll give the doll to daddy so mommy can't get it.  Yesterday, she received her much needed 1st haircut.  Gina Miranda did a great job and I love that when Miley is asked who cut her hair she says, "Gina" very proudly.

 

Showing off her new do with her new friend, Gina.

We were able to have Paul's nieces over for dinner today...Paul grilled some amazing ribs while the kids were all playing in the yard.  I just had to take the opportunity for one more photo for the blog:

 

Patiently waiting for summer to truly arrive...

One more note: Welcome to the world, Miss Ellie!  My fabulous friend, Kay-Cee has joined the ranks of parenthood!  She is just so adorable and I can't wait to meet her (once I'm sure Jake is completely healthy).  Congrats to Kay-Cee & Eric!