BalancedChaos

New Cathedral

This is one of my favorite Scout field trips. We have always been lucky to get amazing tour guides that are able to keep a group of 3rd grade boy's attention for over an hour. One highlight on this tour was that we were able to go into the room where they keep the relics. We were told not many groups get to tour this room and for a group of boys it was definitely a highlight to see bones of saints and wood from the cross of Jesus.

I've realized that Maura will have already gone on most tours and field trips by the time she enters grade school- another reason she will be able to team teach Kindergarten with Mrs. Drabelle.

Last Parents as Teachers Visit

Maura had her last Parents as Teachers visit last month. Lisa has been with us for 12 years, since Ben was a baby! I feel like this program has given me so much throughout these years. During those PAT visits with Ben, I remember being so excited that someone was coming over to talk about him with me! First, it was adult interaction during a time when I was getting too little. Second, I always had questions and needed reassurance. And finally, Lisa always made me feel like I was an awesome mom. Lisa continued to come over with Max and then Maura. I felt less like I needed the adult interaction but still had questions and loved the reassurances. Through the years I thought this would be a perfect job as the kids got older. I feel so lucky to be part of such an incredible program with an amazing staff. It is a dream job talking with moms and helping them through the crazy path of parenthood. I teared up quite a few times during our last visit being flooded with memories of all these years that have gone by too quickly. But I'm so happy I get to be there for moms like me.

Amy's Portrait of Molly

Amy gave me a watercolor of Molly for my birthday- tears. She totally captured Molly's eyes, fur and crazy chicken legs. What an incredible gift- the picture and to have such talent in the family!

http://www.amaliafisterlottes.com/newpaintings.html

Crazy Hair Day and Skating

Maura's first time ice-skating. I think Charlie mostly held Maura up while she looked around and talked her way around the rink :)

Superbowl with the Tomlinsons

Always lots of food, drinks and laughs with the Tomlinsons

When did everyone get so flippin' big?!!

Maura can hold her own with the boys

I remember this crazy mask making Ben cry when he was a baby which feels like last year.

Scouts

We went to the Wild Bird Sanctuary for a Scout event. The kids made bird feeders and learned about endangered birds in our area.

We also learned about other endangered animals including some species of turtles. Max decided he wants to be a herpatologist and study turtles. I think it is a great idea especially if he lives in a warm climate that I can visit frequently!

Blue and Gold dessert competition- Max's contribution

This is the 7th year of Pinewood Derby for us. This year, Max's car came in the top 5 and got to go to the District competition. I think Charlie said he put the least amount of work into the car this year. So now we know the right strategy!

Cousins

We are SO blessed to have such an amazing extended family. I truly feel like our kids are happiest when they are with their cousins. The energy is always positive and full of fun. Much of the credit goes to Kate for giving us a feel week each Summer to spend with each other where we can build on our relationships. Family was in town after Christmas and we spent time rock climbing, shooting off rockets, celebrating more Christmas and just hanging out.