In times of uncertainty and things unknown, I get so happy when I remember that Jesus, my friend, is right there waiting for me. I don’t need a phone to call him or a car ride to see him. I don’t need a fee or a ticket. I don’t need a subscription or a prescription. No line to wait on, no instagram account or facebook. He’s just right there, ready for me.

Happy 11th birthday Melina! I hope the world brings you as much joy as you bring to us! Keep shining your light.

9 months and he’s already walking out into this great big world. Daddy holds his hand to protect him from falling but he’s already so independent. He can’t explore his surroundings quick enough. He wants to run and touch and be free. Hes our fourth child and its exciting to watch him bloom like a flower. I know its inevitable that hes going to grow up fast. I already watch our 3 daughters grow up before our very eyes and theres nothing to do to stop it. So this time around, I’m just going to sit back and enjoy the show.

I love coffee. It’s the first thing I look forward to in the morning. It’s my ultimate pleasure, my happy little place. It helps me unwind and it whispers to me “slow down and take a sip”. Early Mother’s day morning I woke up to the wonderful aroma of coffee, eggs and bagels. I never wake up to any food aromas, as I am the person in the house who gets those aromas started each and every day. So my nose and stomach were super delighted! My girls treated me to a most delicious breakfast made with love. They wanted to serve it to me in bed but I don’t like staying in bed any longer than I need to so they served it to me in the dining room. Coffee would have been enough, but they made me my favorite breakfast and just the way I like it.  They even put my favorite table cloth on the table! I was served fried eggs with cheese and a half of a bagel light on the cream cheese. What a treat, not only was it delicious but I loved all of the little details. The flower, the little chocolates, the pretty tray, a little glitter. They know me so well! I was truly impressed. The surprises didn’t end here, I was showered with cards galore, beautiful rocks (one rock had a quote on it that I had written in a book when I was in my 20’s. Apparently everyone thought it was hysterical and they painted it onto a rock for me) and a paper pendant neclace! My day continued to unfold with a beautiful lunch which included a delicious salad made by Amir and Milano cookies followed by a show on the trampoline. After a visit to nonnas we hurried back home where I was surprised with a beautifully put together dinner for two. Amir and I were greeted at the front door by a lovely little waitress named Lia. She had a great big smile and sat us at a window side table for two.Our meal started off with a glass of water, and a fruit salad appetizer with a side of granola and almonds.

Followed by a fluffy, pink pancake topped with fruit and powdered sugar. The meal ended with my favorite dessert, chewy chocolate chip cookies.Thank you girls for making this mother’s day feel like mother’s day, it didnt feel like just another day of me in the kitchen and that was exactly what they wanted. It wasnt just about the meal that was made. It was all of the little details that made me realize how much my girls know me and what I like. The lite up candles and the Mason jar filled with flowers, the classical music that played in the background. A cup of coffee would have been enough, but all of the extras made this day a day I will remember for a long time to come.

I love watching Liam as he discovers the world around him. He is definatley in his zone when he is out doors. His favorite way of discovering things right now is by tasting and chewing everything. Discovery through play is beginning and it’s one of my favorite times. I love this little poem titled Play Days I found in our Treasury of Mother Goose Rhymes book.

How many days has my baby to play?

Saturday, Sunday, Monday,

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday;

Saturday, Sunday, Monday,

Hop away, skip away,

My baby wants to play.

My baby wants to play every day.

 

Liam, may your days of play never be limited.

a kiss under the table

baking cookies just because

sitting in a quiet place

a whisper from above

hearing the girls say “daddy’s home”

baby giggles

listening to my girls play the flute

Organization

painting a rainbow

a veggie platter

talking to a friend

playing with your sister

playing with your brother

a slobbery dog kiss

gathering fresh eggs

reading a book

calling saba

calling nonna

talking with cousins

reading old notes

taking a walk

Shoes

Playing dress up

painting

watermelon

girls playing barbies

imagination

happiness is right now.

Things I’m loving right now;

All my children home and enjoying time together (and sometimes not so much). I’m loving all of the art work the kids have been working on. I’m enjoying The Presence of God, a book I’ve read several times before and feel like right now is a good time to read it again. I’m loving not having to be at the bus stop with Isabel at 6:40 am. I like having amir work from home, even though he’s crazy busy it’s nice knowing he’s upstairs and will be on time for dinner. Loving the kids slumber parties on our living floor, endless hours of play, and sitting down on the driveway floor watching the kids draw with chalk. Everyone just seems less stressed and in no hurry to be any where. I know this too shall pass so I’m going to make the best of it.

I set up a little art studio in our dining room knowing this would become one of our favorite spots in the house. I have yet to sit and create something but I feel like it’s the best gift I can give to the family right now. It’s been a great outlet for the kids. While Amir works night and day to sustain us, I’m trying to find ways to keep us all mentally healthy and happy.