St. Patricks Day Smiles

St. Patrick's Day fun all started with some green milk, green french toast, and a story about St. Patrick himself. Madeline made dramatic faces while Deacon read the story eagerly awaiting the end. Everyone quickly dressed in green to avoid a day full of unwanted pinches. Sorry for the repetitive pictures, but it is getting more difficult to get all the smiles at once!


This is just some cuteness to show off. She is quite the climber and moving around on everything. I even found most of the way onto the counter next to her high chair. We have finally figured out a buckle for it that she can't get out of, but if she does figure her way out of this buckle, we will have to start tying her legs down.
We are really enjoying her personality coming even more to life. She can now say, "dog, dada, amen, and all done."Of course these are all in said such that not everybody would quite understand, but it is definitely a good start. Anyone that sees her, feel free to say "mama" a thousand times as I am looking forward to hearing that from her next!

You're in a Chair... In the Sky!

Madeline's Creativity

This is the picture that Madeline drew shortly before we left to go pick up Deacon. He was flying at the time. In case you can't tell there is fire on the mountain, an airplane and all the James members parachuting safely to the water. Actually, I believe there is a castle in sight. I decided not to think too hard about it, but it was a little disturbing considering the moment. Madeline assures me that we were never in any danger of crashing in the story she tells with this picture.

Daddy's Homecoming

We had a fun time welcoming daddy home from Qatar. He got to Spokane late, so we met him in Spokane at a hotel. The kids and I got there early and went swimming, had dinner, and watched a movie. Deacon got to the room well after everyone was asleep, but the kids excitement got the better of them and we were all up at 5:45!

This is Frank's Diner in Spokane which has become my favorite breakfast restaurant. If you ever have a chance to go, it is great food, service and atmosphere.

Ivan was a little wild with excitement to see dad and when I asked for smiles, this is what I got. Deacon brought them both golden Aladdin lamps and camels. Madeline also got a gold bracelet and Ivan got a real sword! As for me I was super excited about a pearl necklace, a gold necklace and charm and some fun linens.

Fiona had her first swim and did swimmingly. I have yet another water baby!
After swimming we headed home and quickly had three sleeping children and 2 hours to catch up talking together!

A Sneak Peek

First of all, sorry for the lack of scanning abilities. However, you get the idea and it definitely looks like the profile of the first three children.

And so the most interesting question to answer is: What is the sex?

Well, we are going to be the perfect average American family (extended version...4 kids, 2 of each + a dog)!

Ivan was so excited that he went to look in the car for him! I wish it were only that easy and quick. Well little junior looks like a super cooperative, healthy little guy and a dedicated thumb sucker. Praise God! The due date is July 23rd, but I will let you know when I pick a date for the weeks before that!