not to us

I've really been off the blogging band-wagon, huh?  I suppose life has just been very normal and smooth recently.  :)  And that hasn't been an accident.  One of our goals for 2010 is to keep things calm.  :)  No surprises, no drama.  After the past couple of years, we're really looking forward to a low-key year.

This week has been stressful for Mike.  A project at work has required long hours and focused problem-solving.  In order to try to keep his stress as low as possible, I cleaned up the house, and the kids and I headed for Terre Haute.  My hope is that he's been able to come home and relax...not worrying about cranky children or a tired wife.  :)

On the other hand, we SURE do miss him!  We'll be going home Friday afternoon, and I can't wait to see him when he gets home.  The kiddos are looking forward to it, too!  :)

We've been having a good time here at Poppa and Nonna's, though.  The kids thrive on the extra cuddles and love.  I must say, I thrive on it, as well.  :)

This weekend, we're getting our pictures taken for the church directory (that's a whole 'nother blog post!), and Ruby picked out a pretty hilarious outfit.  It's not something I would have ever chosen for her, but she really seemed to like it.  I'll make sure to get a picture of her to post for you all.  It'll really show her personality.  :)

Burke continues to develop at a mind-boggling pace.  He is consistently saying or signging these words: Mama, More (spoken and signed), Up, Down, Please (signed), Thank You, Night Night, No No, and That (while pointing to a desired object).  Every once in a while, it seems like he's even saying more.  He's walking like a pro and climbing like he wants to give me a heart attack.  He can get onto any seat or piece of furniture, and he's fearless.  He'll pull one chair over in order to use it as a step-stool up to another chair (or TABLE!)  He's a crazy kid.  :)

Ruby's very into movies right now.  She loves the story lines and the plots.  She enjoy discussing the movies, talking about the characters and their motives.  She's also become quite interactive with her cartoons.  She answers their questions outloud and follows their directions.  And, despite my best intentions, she is fascinated by Dora the Explorer.  She knows how to say Up, Down, Open, and Close in Spanish.  And she's learning how to sing her Spanish alphabet (courtesy of Mommy and Daddy...not Dora!)  :)  And don't worry!  We don't just watch t.v. all day.  We're slowly making our way through 200 new Golden Books that I found on Craigslist for $10.  We've discovered some of my favorites from my childhood, as well as Disney Classics.  :)  She is so much fun these days.  We're experiencing fewer tantrums and increased cooperation.  (And know I'm knocking on wood until my knuckles bleed.)  :)

Life is good, and we're counting our blessings!  Thanks for taking this journey with us.  We love you!