More Than Dog Children

Yes, sir!

Tae Kwon Do remains a passion for Declan. I thought he would only last a few months but he's loving it and working hard so we'll keep on taking him and are excited to see his talent blossom.

Declan and "J" didn't have an instant bond. It took awhile for them to mesh but they are best bros now. It's so fun to see their relationship deepen. We laugh (and sometimes vent) about how they are both spirited children. How did this happen?! How did we get two very strong willed, crazy, outgoing, stubborn, spirited kids??

It makes for interesting dynamics. They are always trying to make each other laugh so sometimes our voices of authority are quickly dismissed. It's a work in progress for sure.

Regardless, I see many beautiful adventures in the future with these two!

This is the "school day" glazed over look Declan gets in the evening...

Apple Picking

Martin's Hillside Orchard is a darling little place just 45 minutes away. We went last year with the twins and knew right away it would be a new tradition. We ate apples and yummy raspberries all week.

And just for kicks, last year....

Then he was 6

How is it possible that this little chubby faced, smiley, sweet, sassy baby is SIX?!

Time truly flies. I use to hear that and roll my eyes and now I fully embrace that saying.

Declan is a little boy now...but always my baby.

I'm so proud of who he has become (though I could deal with a little less of the constant negotiating...this kid will not take no for an answer). BUT...he is sweet and caring and has loads of friends at school. Plus: a girlfiend. Whaaa?! I know! Oh Lily... ;)

Funny, silly, magnetic, easy to get along with. Love you, sweet Decs.

We had a Minecraft party, of course. I accidentally scheduled it on Grandma's birthday. Whoops! Fun to celebrate them together, though.

This kid does not lack exuberance. Ha!

Mark and I took Decs lunch at school. He was the first kiddo to turn 6 in his class. I don't regret waiting to send him because he grew so much last year in academy preschool.

We met some of his goofy friends and I like having faces with names. He was so proud we were there. When does that change and they get embarrassed of us? I'll soak in this stage for now...