Five! {Celebrating Lydia}

Our girl turned five today.  Five!  What a joy Lydia is (and strong-willed and what some might describe as quite stubborn as well ... all traits which will make her a strong leader I believe!).  This girl has a special place in the hearts of many.  

Like Samuel, Lydia also plays her birth order well - she fits the molds of little sister and big sister well.  She knows how to work her charm on the boys, and she also dotes on Nora (often giving in a little too easily when Nora "needs" something).

On this day I like to reflect back to December 18th, 2009 - it is still with great surprise that I recall the emotions when my doctor proudly and with much emotion himself, announced that we had a baby girl.  And, as I do every year, I must insert the caveat that we love our boys fiercely as well.  It was the surprise of a daughter that was (and remains to be) quite extraordinary.

To our girl, Happy Birthday, we love you more than you can imagine.  XO

Double Digits {Celebrating Samuel}

Today our (not-so) little boy turns double digits.  It is such a joy to see Samuel grow.  He has a tender heart and loves big.  He adores his big brother and dotes on his little sisters, and he is often the one to bring Owen into conversation.  He plays the role of middle child well.

He also love animals ... if not for allergies I have a feeling we would be more than just a one (oversized) dog and fish family.  In fact, he is trying hard (relentlessly) to convince us that a hedgehog would be a perfect Christmas gift.

It's been a blessing to celebrate Samuel this weekend ... a snow coaster size pizza for family birthday (eve) meal out ...

Special hot cocoa to finish Birthday Eve ...

And, his favorite - a peanut square breakfast ...

And, then a surprise boys' afternoon / night out!

Seems the boys thoroughly enjoyed boys' day out - they went to a hockey game, and Samuel was randomly chosen to ride in the zamboni!  Happy Birthday to him!!

(Samuel and I have a birthday date planned for later this month, and we will celebrate him and Lydia ... and maybe Jason who it seems may also have a significant birthday this month ... with a family party this upcoming weekend)

Me and my December babies ...

Happy Birthday to our Samuel, you are a blessing to us and many others!  We love you!  xo