Wrapping up May

Life has been great lately. We are visiting with friends again, our weekly mom's group has started back up at local parks, we've had lots of fun family time, and the warm weather keeps us outside all day long. I often get swept away with how blessed my life is. There was a time I thought I might never have my own babies, so I always remember that, especially on the hard days. I love being a mama to my amazing kiddos. Here is what we've been up to:

We finally started our mom's small group Bible study back up. We haven't met since February 2020. I love these sweet friends (one is missing). We all have babies to wear and toddlers to chase :)

We go to our nature preserve weekly, but it's always special when Daddy comes along! We took some time as a family to explore together.

One of the more recent times we were out there with friends, we got to play in the creek. It was probably my second favorite day we've ever had there (followed closely behind the day the kids played in the rain). Isla was covered in dirt and had the time of her life. It was so fun!

It was like taking a feral child home. She played so hard that she refused to eat lunch so she had to eat on the way home (I know, not the safest idea). She was covered in dirt and water so she had to strip before getting buckled. Such a fun, fun day! (Note the very pink cheeks and dirty legs).

We've also spent a lot of time in our backyard. Isla has been busy in her tinkerspace, garden, and little pool. Ewan joins when he can :) Every morning, Isla runs outside to see if there are any strawberries she can eat. I love her patience and curiosity while growing our garden. It's very exciting when we can enjoy one or two! 

One of the more exciting things was when Nana and Pop Pop opened their pool. That is always the sign that summer has officially started for our family. Isla LOVES swimming there and I think she'll be a fish all summer. But do you know who loves it more than her? Ewan! He just giggles and splashes to his heart's content. It's going to be a fun summer! 

We also had a fun night of music in the park with Nana and Pop Pop. It was all 50's and 60's music. 

We are in the middle of our caterpillar/butterfly unit. We have been so busy lately that our morning basket time only happens once or twice a week, but when it does Isla soaks it all up. We even ordered some caterpillars that arrived with everything they need to turn into a butterfly. They are currently sitting on our mantle inside their chrysalides as we patiently wait for them to emerge as butterflies.

And on all the in-between-days (when we don't have some big adventure planned), we've spent many days at parks, with friends, at the zoo, and with each other. I love these days.

Isla kept folding her hands to pray and raising her hand to worship during online church. Next week, we are going to try in-person finally! 

I asked Isla if she knew how to make an "I" and she made this! She later told Michael that it was an elephant tusk, but I believe this is her first written letter she's ever made!

And finally, this little man turned 9 months on the 20th. He's such a happy baby. He's finally crawling, which makes him even happier. He puts everything in his mouth as quickly as possible. He eats so much food, but really dislikes most vegetables. He likes to snuggle and smile all day. He has started waking up every 2 hours again, but I'm blaming the third and fourth teeth he's working on. We are so blessed to know him and be his buddy. Sweet, sweet boy.