Eli's birthday

This kids started back to school this week. We're finally starting to get the house back in order, purging more and taking in less will be my motto for 2014.

Evelyn hasn't napped in her bed all week. Only in the car when I pick up the kids. Its been a good week overall. I'm trying to get her back on her schedule. Because she's one and she still needs a nap everyday. She's quite the fighter though. She will not give in easily and I think she knows how much it kills me to hear her cry in her bed when I lay her down. I can only take so much.

Eli's birthday was sunday. We drug his birthday celebration out all weekend. Starting at 10:00 a.m. friday, his friends came over, they had a sleepover and then played paintball saturday. another sleepover saturday night and a relaxing day sunday, which included take out sushi and some cleaning and organizing.

I know I say this every single year, but how can it be he's already 12? I know we're coming up on some challenging years, and to be honest its already started. We get some attitude and back talk but, he's a good boy. I'm proud to be his mom. I pray that God guides me everyday in raising him. He's really into hunting right now, he loves to be outside, he's full of energy and very kind, he picks on Ava like its his job and he loves Evelyn more than anything. I see that in his eyes when he looks at her. He loves Ava too, just won't admit it right now;) He can't wait to grow up, I tell him to slow down because childhood is short and he needs to savor it. He can't wait to drive a car, (Oh Lord help me, I don't know how I'll get through that!) He wants me to come in his room and talk everynight and I'm so very thankful for that. I hope it lasts forever.

So, 12 years have past and I think I've learned a thing or two about being a parent. I've made many mistakes, but I know my kids know how much I love them and that I'm always, no matter what, going to be here for them. This year, I hope to learn patience more than ever. With three kids at very different stages in life, I will have to lean on God to help me with that everyday. And speaking of purging, having less clutter in my life and home help me daily to live a better life. My focus can be more on God, my husband, my kids and my family. One thing I've leanred about keeping my home free of clutter is its an everyday choice. Buying only what I need and nothing more. Its a battle I'm ready to fight!

Today, I'm thankful that 12 years ago God gave us Eli.

Our week-

 Wearing one of my old dressses. I cannot express to you how much I love vintage baby clothes!