Stuffs...

Four words...The Hunger Games Trilogy... what on earth people!!! I've heard of these books and because of my anxiety and worry ridden nature I didn't read them when everyone else was. My desire to be completely immersed in another land took over and these are the books I've been reading over the last week and a half. How someone has this story swimming around in their head is beyond me!! Once I got past the initial shock and my poor inner self was able to get over the idea of the whole thing- I most certainly was immersed. Very interesting and lots of parallels to make in real life. I think this would be a great read for teens in school- so many possible discussions!

The little people are becoming not so little and I kind of like it. No babies to get up with, no diapers to change, everyone gets themselves ready and buckled in the car, they help with the household duties, and I have time to pursue some personal interests like my beloved yoga and piano lessons.

We've been spending every Monday morning at a place called The Learning Farm where the littles get to feed goats, chickens, horses, cows, pigs, and sheep. They are learning all about Colonial times and doing things like milking goats, making butter, soap, and dyeing wool. Lots of fun but a little chilly. Marah is usually filled with trepidation with new things- however her complete terror of the chickens was not something I expected. I tried to use my skills to talk her down but she finally said in her are you crazy voice "Just look at them Mom, how can they not be scary!!"

I am really learning to appreciate the people our older kids are becoming. I have learned so much from both of them. I knew it would be hard to let go but I had no idea how hard. One day you are changing diapers and the next they are driving and you are talking about college. Hayden is graduating this year and talking about moving out next year. I'm excited for him and so happy that his choices have opened lots of doors for him. FYI- teens are not always thrilled with getting their picture taken:)

We all miss Ryker but Jack most of all. I'm still amazed at how much child one and child five are alike in looks and personality. Ryker has taught us so much and I will be forever grateful to him- although I wish the process would have been easier I wouldn't change the lessons we all learned. He is his own man marching to his own drum. I am so impressed with the success he has been experiencing in his life over the last six months. Watching him come into his own has been one of the highlights of my life.

I've found myself telling Jack that I feel as if my heart will burst with the love I feel for our family. I'm so grateful to Ken who stuck through all the hard times and chose to grow in our journey together. My day always feels complete when I can get that little smirky smile out of him! I am forever grateful that he finds me humorous!! I think it really is true that when we have sorrow the joys are so much sweeter. I am doing my best to enjoy the sweetness without letting the worry take over- thank you yoga and a fantastic counselor!!