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Okay, 8 months later...

I really should make this a better blog! Perhaps every time I go to check on fb I should participate in my very own blog! Maybe I can make a com-back with some Halloween news to share... So, cheers to new endeavors of better blogging (thanks to my Oktoberfest photo). ;-)

Maeda Point

We went on a late Saturday afternoon adventure. It was nearby which was awesome, and the weather was just right for on the coast, a little chilly, a few sprinkles, and plenty of breeze blowin through.

Some upclose cute pics of our good time...

Andy did a bit of additional exploration, as usual. Can you see him?

Momma's loves...

Fun pics around the house!

Here is Daddy being the rock star that he is...

Violet snoozin...

The boys playing in the dirt downstairs...

Deep thoughts...

I can't express it accurately with words, or understand the depth of it, but when I look at Violet and see a direct reflection of her Daddy is makes my heart so warm. I know I'm fortunate to feel such love and gratitude for my whole family. Not everyone has a happy story. Even the struggles of maintaining a normal family life can get you down - may the Lord never let me forget how much He has blessed me. I don't know if there are anymore children in our future, but I feel so content and complete. We always said three, and I had always hoped for a daughter to go with my sons - and it actually happened. I think back to fond memories of being the only and youngest daughter, and how special all the girl time me and my mom shared. I think about how much I can't wait to bond with Violet and how lucky I am to have a little sweetheart. And back to my initial thought - that fact that she looks just like Andy reminds me of the special love that the Lord gave to him and I to share, and through that we have these beautiful children. They are a reflection of the love we share. Again, may the Lord protect us and keep that love safe that we grow together as a family founded in love and the Lord. Amen. <>< (that's for you Ma).

Fall Days

Well, summer seems to be over here and it's lovely! I had all the windows and doors open yesterday with a great breeze blowing through, and it felt amazing. Of course, that is aside from the "mighty machines" that have been working in the neighborhood. Luckily the jackhammering across the street has ceased, but looks like there was sewer trouble on the other side of the street. It entertains the boys at least!

So, Violet is one month old and getting so big and so sweet. She seems to be connecting more each day with us. She surprised me the other day when Andy came home from work she turned her head all the way to see him and just started smiling. :) I can see how this is going to go... very sweet. Here they are taking a little snooze together.

The boys and I took a walk to the grocery store yesterday and it's always a fun adventure. I got a picture of them in the candy aisle watching a commercial on this little tv! Funny, isn't it?

This is a cute little onsies a friend bought me back in TN, in honor of our Stroller Strides. Which I plan on rejoining next week, so wish us luck! With three little ones we shall see how it goes. I'm not too worried - as long as Franklin can keep up on his bike we should be good to go!

Well, there isn't too much else happening, but I thought I would check in and say hello. I'm not sure what we'll come up with this year for Halloween festivities. Plan is to check out the Foster Fright Night with friends from work. Should be fun. I have not pursued costumes this year with the kiddos since it's a little challenging getting around with 3 little ones and I don't know where I'd look for costumes other than on base, and those are not impressive... If we come up with something I'm sure you'll see a picture soon enough. When we went to the playgroup the other day I didn't bake anything - just brought cookies from the store, and I told the gals "I think I'm excused from that kinda stuff with  a new baby, so I'm gonna ride that train for a while." Laundry and dishes all in one day seem to be enough, let alone crafting and cooking (well dinner I do, oh wait I actually do all 3 meals a day cause I have to! Kids gotta eat!! haha)

P.s. We miss you all, can't wait for visitors. Thanks for all the super fun boxes in the mail. It really does make our day. If there's anything Japanese you'd like please let me know. The boys like sending out mail too! All our love to you everyone. See ya on skype!