Creativity

Maybe it's because I'm a teacher, but I value creativity in kids. I believe kids should be allowed to be creative. (Well, okay. I say that, and I do believe it, but I do have to give myself a pep-talk if big messes will be involved. . . ). Anyhoo. I love it when Olivia and Sawyer use their creativity, and I give myself little mommy-gold-stars when they do, especially if they initiated it on their own. . . and especially if there won't be a huge mess to clean up afterwards.

Playing train. They were into this for a looonnnngg time.

From 5 and 7

Then there is Lynnea. Her creativity centers around getting herself anywhere that is UP, and also around getting anything small and dangerous INTO her mouth. I'm hoping to channel that somehow. But for now, at least she's cute. . . and creative--in a determined sort of way.

From 5 and 7

5 and 7

Sawyer recently turned 5 and Olivia 7, and I think the arrival of these two birthdays for me has been the most shocking! 5 and 7 just seem so old. Saying them makes me feel old. How did this happen right before my eyes? Maybe having the third baby just sort of accentuates how much time has passed since they were her size. So much happens and then I look back and can't sort out the details in the blur; I'm trying to cherish each moment of their development. . . Anyway, I am so thankful for my kiddos, and so delighted with who they are (most of the time!). They are such precious gifts from God. This year, what with the busyness and scheduling of teams, we told Olivia and Sawyer we were going to do small family things for their birthdays. So for Sawyer's special day, we went to see Cars 2, and Olivia's birthday fell on a team beach trip that we were scheduled to go on, so she got to go to the beach and then have pizza with part of the group afterwards.

Sawyer's All Chocolate Heart-Cars Cake

From 5 and 7

Olivia's Strawberry/Vanilla/Chocolate Cake

From 5 and 7