A visit with the Simons

The Simons came to visit in September, and it worked out that they were here for a wedding during Bennett's 4th birthday.  This was the first birthday we've celebrated with B, so it was extra special for all of us.  We wish so much that they lived closer, because we always have so much fun when we're together.

Uncle Justin and Auntie Stacy came over to visit straight from the airport.  They indulged the kids with a tea party - water and gold fish, we do it high class around here

cousins having fun with the wagon

B loves his uncle

Kyle is so great with kids, they all love him.  It's a gift and I love to see it!

Oh, sweet Sloane

She is a doll, such a fun personality and is non-stop motion.

We loved getting to spend time with her ~ she is growing and changing so fast!

time for presents

Bennett's new stomp rocket was a huge hit with the kiddos.

They had so much fun!

Carter and B

Bennett really loves Carter and is content doing whatever Carter is doing.  It really is so cute to watch and I'm (usually) proud of Carter for how sweet he is to Bennett.

They are good buds

Now these two on the other hand have more of a love/hate relationship. 

They did really great this trip, so maybe we are turning a corner and we'll see more love!

B chose ice cream pies for his birthday treat and enjoyed it as we all sang "happy birthday"

Happy 4th Birthday, Bennett!

We love you, buddy!

Fun with Cousins!

Stacy and the kids made a trip up to Portland last week and we were lucky enough to see them three different times during their visit.  I'm not sure how it happened, but I didn't snap a single picture of my sweet little niece...sad.  She was sick towards the end of their trip and asleep in the car during our museum visit.  She's so cute and has grown so much and I'm sad I don't have any current pictures to post.

I know I've said it many times before, but I'm so thankful that Kennedy and Carter get to grow up with cousins who are close to them in age.  It's a fun little group of five!

On Saturday, Kyle took the kids and met his sister at the Children's Museum. 

Carter and Bennett in the dig pit - love their coordinating shirts!

Kennedy is such a turkey when it comes to having her picture taken.  Kyle marveled at how well B would pose for pictures.  You had to be quick, but he always looked to the camera and smiled his super cute smile.  He could teach his cousins a thing or two!

All three enjoyed the veterinarian area

In the reading nook

I love B's crossed legs...he's growing up way too fast!

The water room is always a hit

After a few hours at the museum it was on to lunch. 

What a special day!

We headed out to Hillsboro after church on Sunday and the weather was decent so we bundled up the kids and headed to the park.

Before dinner I took the kids out to ride bikes...I am still impressed by how well Carter is doing on two wheels.  He loves it!

The "big" kids

Kennedy, Bennett and Carter

These two are so funny together.  I'm not sure if it's their proximity in age or their strong willed nature, but they argue like crazy.  Today's argument was whether it was "raining" or "sprinkling".  It's hilarious to watch them together. 

There's so much going on with Kennedy's outfit...comfy jammies, rain boots and a winter coat.  Oh Kennedy, you are unique and I love you!  I pray that you always feel confident enough to be just who you want to be.

And not one to be left out, Brady came along for a stroll.  I just love those chubby cheeks!

Such a great smile!  B really loves Carter and was his shadow the entire day.  Carter is quite patient with him, as opposed to how he can be with Kennedy, and they get a long great. 

Joy!

And here's a cute picture of Baby Sloane, I just couldn't bare the thought of leaving this sweet little one out!  I love that she smiles with her whole face, just like Kennedy did at her age.  She is a doll - so happy and always moving!

{Photo from Stacy's blog}