Feels Like A Summer Sunday

Anyone who lives on the East coast knows Maryland has a reputation for craziest weather patterns. The only predictable thing about our weather is that it is unpredictable. Just a few weeks ago we had warm 50 degree days and then BAM! State of emergency snow blizzard.

Today was no different. February 28 and 63 degrees.

Naturally, we seized the opportunity and soaked up quite a bit of (much needed) vitamin D. (This was also a great time to play with my new lens). 

One kiddo is not pictured as she was enjoying a special treat with friends. On a side note, I love that hubby baby-wears. 

They were so thrilled to get the wagon out. They were talking about all the places they plan on taking the wagon this summer.

Peek-A-Boo!

This guy was happy to take a break and get back to his banana. Also, how is it time for his birthday already?! In two weeks my baby will no longer be a "baby".

Days like this I will cherish, because all too soon there will be no more wagons or babies or toddlers dreaming about flying their wagon to the moon.

Senior Session

I always like a good challenge. I'm incredibly competitive, especially with myself. I think that's one of the reasons I enjoy getting the men in front of my camera. They are always hesitant or just flat out don't wanna. I enjoy getting them to loosen up, embrace the camera, and just have fun!

Seth is a senior and like most males, wasn't super keen on the idea of a photo session all about him. But we got comfy, had some laughs, and I was able to get some great shots that really embodied his personality. 

I met Seth and his family at a church we used to attend together. 

He plays soccer, and from what I hear, is pretty darn good!

Once you get him laughing, it's pretty contagious and difficult to stop. 

I photographed his older brother for his senior session and I had so much fun. I was very thankful to be able to work with this family again.

See? Total soccer player stance. 

Thank you Seth for a great session!

Five Is A Wonderful Number

I feel terrible having been away for so long, but it was for a good reason. 

Baby {Coffee} Bean #5

Due 4/21

We couldn't be happier!!

This ultrasound picture was taken at 9 weeks. I am now 13 weeks as of today. Praying this "morning" sickness will subside soon. Really, I've been truly blessed. I feel great in the morning, which allows me to get out of bed and start my day, such an important thing since I homeschool 4 children. But as the day progresses, I digress. By the time bedtime rolls around, I'm usually in bed before the kiddos and I feel like, if I blink, I will surely throw up! 

I have an amazing husband and he does so much for me during these times. He's truly a rockstar! 

But the BIG bummer about having morning sickness in the fall? I miss out on all my favorite foods and flavors!! Pumpkin Coffee? No thanks!! Chili?! Fahgettit!!! Soup? Ugh! 

And anyone who knows me, knows, I break all fall flavors (especially all things pumpkin) out as soon as school starts!! I LOVE it! So in the meantime, I am freezing about 4 bottles of Pumpkin Spice creamer, hoarding pumpkin spice choco chips, cheater pumpkin spice cookie mix, and pumpkin bread mix for when I feel normal and alive again. Come Christmas all my food will be pumpkin themed. My family will love me. {sarcasm}

So, if you want to eat some pumpkin food are drink some pumpkin coffee for me, go ahead, enjoy it! And know that there are some people in the world crying over the lack of pumpkin in their diet.

So please excuse my sparse posts. It takes a lot these days just to get through my normal duties and responsibilities. But it's so worth it! 

I will hopefully have a couple of posts this week, but I make no promises. I do hope that you will subscribe so you don't miss out on any future posts. 

A Shopping Trip: Ikea

Allow me to introduce my sisters in law. Marie, on the left, is married to my husband's brother. Bekah, on the right, is my husband's sister.

I am truly blessed to have these amazing gals in my life!

This was Bekah's first trip to Ikea. Let's just say, she now wishes they had them "back home".

Bold diner mugs, love them!

So many cute things!

I'm pretty sure I will be using these in my Fall decor.

I love these lights. I would love a display similar to this in my home. The lighting was so warm and inviting.

Look. Mandrakes!

On our way to check out the As-Is section. Always fun.

We usually always find something we love.

You can't leave Ikea without buying Swedish Fish. It's impossible.

I love the Market Place. So many neat items.

Have you ever tried their Salmon Paste? It's delicious!

But my most favorite thing about Ikea... Kids eat free Tuesday!! 

This momma and her 4 kiddos look forward to that every week. 

What is your favorite thing about Ikea?

Ticket To Ride

Last week we had a wonderful time visiting with family. My sister in law came in from Indiana and it was so wonderful to just be together. We got together with the siblings and had a great afternoon.

Judah's favorite was the huge cabinet of Legos.

He was back and forth between the Legos and this movie. (Who knows which one it is?)

My brother in law purchased a new game, Ticket To Ride. If you have not played it, I highly recommend it. So much fun!

My sister in law and her husband (which is my husband's brother)

My other sister in law, from Indiana.

Brother in law, aka, Man with the beard

She was trying to be sly and go unnoticed. She's pretty good at that...most of the time

My hubby and sister in law having deep theological discussions. 

Over beer.

Is there any other way? 

Seriously. I love my family.

Things We Love Edition: Painting

Sometimes, it's more fun to play inside. Especially when there is paint involved.

These girls were busy painting their masterpieces to sell in their art show.

This particular piece this artist is working on, came to live in my bedroom. It is one of my most treasured pieces of art.

I wish I had thought to take a picture of the other fabulous piece of art I purchased, but I can tell you, the colors were perfect!