One year: a shining spot

Hazel Ruth turns one today! What a year it has been, for better or worse. That has really made time fly by, but it’s been really wonderful to watch Hazel develop and become a big girl. She’s been a shining spot in the midst of difficult times.

Eleven months: yes she can!

In one mere month, my “baby” will turn a year old. How can that be?? But as I watch Hazel walk and play and interact, I realize that she’s growing up fast and becoming a big girl right before my eyes.

Ten months: A big step

It’s been a crazy week so I’m a little late, but Hazel is now ten months old!

…you are one spunky little girl, mild-mannered about some things and fiercely opinionated about others…Will you be walking by our next update? I guess we’ll see.

I posited this question at the end of Hazel’s nine month update. Now, one month later, what is the answer?

Nine months: spunky and motivated

Spunky, motivated Hazel Ruth is nine months old! When I look at her, I am surprised to realize that she’s closer to toddlerhood now than she is babyhood. She’s getting so strong, dexterous, and capable…which means she can get into all sorts of new things.

A little sand in your diaper

Last week, for our summer vacation we took the kids to the Outer Banks for a week. Seven days in one beach house with five adults and four kids four and under is a little bit of insanity, but we survived and had a good time while we were at it.

Sun’s out, son’s out

Hudson’s birthday coincided with the epic Solar Eclipse 2017, a once-in-a-lifetime event that a two-year-old could never appreciate. In fact, I’m pretty sure he slept right through it (since the peak happened pretty close to nap time). Between eclipse viewing and birthday partying, it was a crazy, hectic, but very fun day that I’ll always remember.

Two years old: happy birthday, Hudson!

Hudson is two years old today! The last year has screamed by and taken my baby boy with it, leaving a full-blown toddler in his place. Every day is more exciting as he becomes ever more capable and knowledgeable.

Eight months: exciting accomplishments

Happy eight month birthday, Hazel! This has been an exciting month of firsts from beginning to end. You're becoming so adept and are so pleased with each new accomplishment.

Seven months: a curious spirit

Happy seven months, Hazel! You’re turning into a big girl, doing so many more things and developing your own little personality…which is proving to be quite interesting. I’m impressed by your inquisitive spirit and your drive.

When life hands you lemons, make lemon bars

Today I wanted to share a tasty summer recipe that any mom of little kids is sure to love spending an entire day making. Based on a real recipe by Ina Garten and (loosely) inspired by a true story.