Popcorn

Just a glimpse of the last couples months at our house.

I struggle with birthday cakes, so I shamelessly borrowed this idea from Shaunda.

Last year I was trying to decide whether newborns or two-year-olds were sweeter. But now I think one-year-olds and three-year-olds mothering their dolls is the ultimate sweetness.

In early January, my family had our annual hog butchering. This year we did three whopping 500 lb hogs.  

Everybody helps, though I admit that I spent most of my time inside with the littlest ones. Someones got to do it.

The next generation of helpers is in training.

If you want to see more specifics from butchering days, check out the records of other years - 2013, 2012, 2011, and 2010.

We don't generally do a big party for first birthdays. (Especially since her birthday hit the above butcher day.)

But a simple cupcake was fully enjoyed.

I love to find a couple girls in a corner sharing a book.

My sons were delighted to find a brand-new tent at Goodwill - for a less than brand-new  price. The weather this winter has cooperated and they have spent several nights in their tent. They are planning to live in this tent this summer. So they say.

Can I slow time down? This girlie is rushing to catch up with her siblings. A few days ago she learned how to climb onto chairs. Then tables. Now nothing is safe. The house seemed to have imploded with this whirlwind dumping toys and scattering clothes.

She loves to be outside on these unusually warm days. This afternoon she discovered that she can climb the sliding board ladder. All by herself.

I know she is my sixth child. But I still panicked when I looked across the yard and discovered her halfway up the ladder. But she had it all under control.

I think this girl is going to make me tired this summer. But oh, how many smiles she gives in return.