Spring time fun

Ford trying really hard during tummy time. (he's so fun right now, so he's got his fair share of the blog this time)

The older 4 children started taking karate about a month ago. Its interesting to watch their strengths and weaknesses as the instructor teaches at a level well above most of them and they are expected to jump in and learn without individual help. There are often a trio of children counting to 10 in Japanese.



Check out Feven's 'athletic stance'. :)
Ford turns 8 months old this week...time has really flown. He has 'lots of personality', like when he growls if someone comes near his food. The other 4 are really enjoying him right now...he repeats sounds, tries to 'catch' and makes lots of obnoxious noises. :)
Maisy lost her 1st tooth. Her adult tooth had come in behind so her mouth looks a little crazy. She'll be the first one at the orthodontist.
Ford loves the camera.

Scott's promotion!

It was a proud moment for me last week as I stood by to watch Scott get promoted. We had the joy of sharing his promotion with my Mom and (cousin) Matt. They both took the day off to celebrate with Scott in DC and we had a chance to spend some time with Matt before he deployed to Afghanistan. It was a special day to all of us. It was a bonus to have General Thomas promote Scott. He was Scott's commanding officer in Yuma, a man whom we value as a Marine and a person. The day couldn't have been better! Congratulations Scott!!!


Scott and General Thomas.

Scott reaffirming his oath of office.
Just a little bit of a push of the pins into Scott's shoulder. (i'm too short to get much leverage)
One day this will be a very special memory for Law!

Christmas and more...

Merry Christmas! (just a few weeks late!) We had a great visit with Grandma, Uncle Ryan and Aunt Renee! It was mayhem here as we enjoyed our last white Christmas for some time. Uncle Bob and Aunt Beth came through as well, but the pictures came out blurry. :(
Playing the wii courtesy of Ryan and Renee.
Ford is getting big, but Scott's hand keeps things in perspective! :)
Fun hikes with Dad!
Ford started solids.

Uncle Ryan and Aunt Renee at Christmas!
Family photos with Grandma.

LOVE this sign..you rock Ang!
Uncle Ryan and Aunt Renee!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Dave and Barb made the trip from Colorado to spend Thanksgiving with us! It was a wonderful time having them here. Secretly, we had been planning with Dave's brother Bruce and his wife Polly, to surprise Dave and Barb by also being here for Thanksgiving. (from MN) We had some great family time with them and Cousin Matt.Scott cuts down our Christmas tree.
Ford is almost 4 months...laughing, 'talking', and drooling.
Dad and the boys.
Maisy in her German dress.
Law and Ford.
Wandering around the Christmas tree farm.
Girls in matching pj's.

Grandad and Bibi with the children.
Dave's birthday pumpkin pie! (thanks Mom!)
Is that a big table or what?
Uncle Bruce and Ford.
Bibi and Aunt Polly.
Dave's surprise when he sees Bruce, Polly and Matt.
Bibi and Ford.
Bibi made this amazing quilt for Maisy with fabric from all over the world...including some fabric of a Great Great Grandparent that is almost 100 years old. THANK YOU BARB!

Ford rolls

Happy Birthday Marine Corps and Scott!

Scott and I had the privilege of attending the Commandant's Marine Corps ball last night. Over 3000 people were in attendance at a beautiful hotel on the water in DC. The Marine Corps band put on a small concert and there was live entertainment! AMAZING! It was my first experience seeing secret service in person...pretty neat! Niki's Mom valiantly handled all 5 children for the night...THANK YOU MOM!

For those who know I rarely even blow dry my hair, I'd like to say I did this pretty much on my own, with Mom pinning a few hairs. I'm neither creative, nor good with hair, so God must have been helping me! :)


Solo's not an average dog...contemplating his next chess move.

Mom and Ford.
Does this look like something the men of the S family might do or what?
Scott celebrated his 39th birthday with a homemade pumpkin pie from Mom.

Are you SERIOUS???
Law learns to play chess...check out 'Julie' in the chair in the background!