It has been so long. I can't seem to keep the blog updated. Then, when I sit down to update, there is way to much to say. So, I am going to do several short and sweet entries to get us sort of caught up...
The very day following our week of heaven on earth, we left on a jet plane for chicago. For the first time ever, we left part of our brood at home with Nana and some friends. Initially, C was the only kiddo that was going with us. But, since we were blessed with the new little man (J) in our home, he tagged along for the fun.
Our purpose was to facilitate a vacation bible school for a group of kiddos living in a homeless shelter while in Chicago. Our purpose was to teach them the Word, serve them, and show them by our actions the love that Christ has for them. We had a purpose...but every time that I have ever had an opportunity like this, it is my mission to bless the socks off of these people. But I am the one who walks away a changed person. These kids...from all walks of life...living in a homeless shelter...some unaware of a Man named Jesus that walked the earth to save them...have joy, peace, happiness that only God can grant them in the situation that they are in.
C had a great time...it touched my heart to watch him interact with the kids. He stood up one day in front of the whole group and taught them a Bible verse. C wanted to serve...he, at the age of six, was on a mission for Christ.
But that is not all...Hubs went out on the streets and passed out sandwiches and water. He cleaned and painted at another homeless shelter.
We also had the opportunity to have a lot of fun. In the evenings, we saw the city of Chicago. We had so much fun spending time together...seeing Mary Poppins off broadway, eating Chicago style pizza, shopping at the Lego store, and just bonding with the group of teens and adults that we travelled with.
All in all, that week was another one to write down in history as unforgettable. The city, the kids, the time...all incredible. 
It is a place of encouragement, accountability, refreshment, challenges, learning, growing, friendships, and so much more that can't even be put into words.
The college kiddos that work there are different...serving others before themselves, all for the glory of God. Hubs or I did not get drinks for our kids all week. I'm not sure that we fed the baby a bottle or a jar of baby food. We did not cut up meat or clean up spilt drinks. We sat and talked with our kids and the staff and each other. We went on a picnic, listened to incredible speakers about Godly parenting, and had fun. 
The arts and crafts room was a big hit this year.
Water rockets and skiing were on the play list. 
We enjoyed a carnival and did lots of swimming. 
Every day was full, but not exhausting. Thank you PC for another week of heaven on earth. It is a true gift to our family every year.
K-bel still uses a passy....although only at nap and night, it is so against the norm at our house, but this baby is good at breaking the mold. She also still eats us out of house and home...don't be surprised if she eats three meals a day and seven or eight snacks. No heads turn when she out eats her six year old brother. In fact, leave it up to her brother or sister to provide the snacks and passy at her request.
K-bel still has her gastrostomy button. She seems to be doing quite well. We still don't have a diagnosis for our baby girl, but we hope to see her body really start growing soon....on its own.
K-bel believes whole heartedly that she is in charge 100 percent of the time even if you tell her that she is not. That little bitty body is mighty. She is not afraid to tell her siblings that they need timeout or any other consequence. And most of the time, if they choose not to listen, she takes matters into her own hands.
We celebrated K-bel's birthday with a butterfly party. We had lots of fun with friends and family. 
I love you sweet baby girl...I couldn't be more in love. I want to scoop you up and eat you my little bitty. You make me laugh so hard so often. Happy 2nd birthday. 
With the help of some great fiends and Papa, we drew, cut out (from foamboard) and painted the main characters from Candyland. I can truly say that I completely and totally enjoyed it. There were lots and lots of hours put into the project but it was very therapeutic and fun.
We played a game at each character station...and after each game the kiddos received a prize that went along with the character area. It was some serious candy filled fun. At the end, each kiddo went to "King Candy" and chose candy to put in his or her bag. I am sure all of the parents appreciated each gram of sugar that we helped their children consume that day. :)
Anyway...another year and so many memories. F has the best personality and is still so social. She loves being the center of attention and has no problem making people laugh. F still requires a lot of structure and discipline. We don't really know what God has planned for her, but she has the potential to be used in mighty ways! Happy Birthday sweet girl...we love you!
Today, C was baptized. What a gift...in fact, the best mother's day gift ever! We are close to our pastor and his wife, so C was very comfortable with the whole situation. It was such a blessing to witness our oldest kiddo join the body of Christ.
I hope all of you had a Happy Mother's day. Both of our sweet moms and my sister in law and niece came in this weekend. We always enjoy our time with them. We are blessed beyond measure for the parents that we have had. They are absolutely incredible... 
