Weekend Fun

Few things beat the smell of a fresh cut Christmas tree and that is what we decided to do on Saturday. A tree farm near by seemed like a great choice. Zane stayed in the warm car as we were able to drive back and pick out a tree. The children loved it and afterwards we warmed up in the barn with cookies and hot cocoa.

Decorating the tree was a blast with them. The were great helpers and Violette even put some ornaments on Zane.

It is a very nice looking tree and fills our house with a wonderful smell.
Sunday our good friends, the Feyes family, came over for an overdue visit. The children had a ton of fun together and it is always great seeing them. Mia and Violette haven't reached the age where they can play together, but they seemed to enjoy being around each other. Noelle and Olivia on the other hand did nothing but play together.

The weekend seemed to embody the Christmas season of family, fun, and friends.

Today, I captured Zane's smile on the camera for the first time. He smiles often, but never when the camera is pointed at him. Today I had it on and ready at just the right moment.

Wordless Wednesday

Thanksgiving 2010

This year because of Zane being a little guy still we decided not to head up to Traverse City for Thanksgiving. Instead we went over to St. Clair to my Aunt Judy's house and had a wonderful time with them and my Grandpa this Thanksgiving. We are thankful for family!

The children had a blast and even received some presents, hand picked by Great Grandpa which have been a huge hit. We watched the Lions loose, once again, then feasted on a wonderful dinner. The children even had their own little table, which was thoroughly adored.

This was the first meeting of Zane, and he was loved on by all.
It was a really great Thanksgiving and upon leaving Noelle didn't want to go! About twenty minutes into the drive it was silent and I glanced back to see ALL 4 sleeping...at the same time! Usually there is much chatter despite having the DVD player on, but they were tuckered out from a great day and slept almost the entire way home.

First Program

Tuesday evening, Noelle and Max had their first school program. It was adorable. Max was a bit out of sorts and did nothing. Really, I mean he just stood there the entire time and did nothing. He knew exactly what to do, as he had practiced it at home enthusiastically. Once he got up on stage he just looked at us. Noelle on the other hand did very well and performed the correct signs and songs very intently. The children had the opportunity to take the microphone and say what they are thankful for after their performance. Noelle was thankful for her kitty and Max for, no big surprise, Daddy!

It was an adorable little program followed by a real Thanksgiving meal for all the families to enjoy.

I have video, but I don't know how to flip it so you don't have to tilt sideways to watch. Pictures will do for now!

He's A Month

Zane turned one month old today (Friday). The tears flowed, as I am very emotional and it's a big milestone. Sobbing will ensue when he rolls, sits up, crawls, walks etc. He's my last, I can't help it.

It's been a great first month, although we are fighting pink eye and thrush in the house. Max, Violette, and now Zane have all had thrush, but this is the first time I have had the very unpleasant experience along with the baby. He seems fine, puckering when given his medicine is the only complaint. I have successfully kept pink eye away from him!


As for Zane's personality, it seems to be starting to come through. He is awake for longer periods and has begun to give real social smiles. Not a lot of them, but a few here and there have been experienced. Along with smiles he has found a bit of his voice, cooing while awake. The chaos of his brother and sisters around him keeps him entertained and at times overwhelmed. They bounce back and forth trying to gain his attention. I feel like I have to put a steel cage around him to ensure safety. They all love to try to hug him and kiss him while I tell them to back off constantly. He's well loved, nothing wrong with that.



Zane is getting big and filling out. Breast milk does a baby good! His cheeks are getting very chubby and he is getting very long.
We are not lacking on sleep. Zane has a last feeding around 9pm and sleeps until about 3am. His next feeding happens when the other's get up. I can't complain about one night time feeding. I enjoy getting up with him and catching up with some shows on DVR as I lovingly nurse and cuddle him. I look forward to the next month seeing Zane grow and develop. At the same time I want him to stay this little for a long time as I love the newborn stage so much.

Wordless Wednesday

Taken on Monday. I didn't get my camera out today.

A New Family Member

Because we weren't busy enough, we have added a kitten to our family. Noelle has been asking for a kitten as a birthday present and I couldn't think of a reason not to get one for her. Aunt Ceecee found a beautiful Persian and decided to get it for Noelle. She came over Sunday evening and Noelle had no idea about her early surprise.

Upon opening the box she was in shock and it took her a few moments to register that she did indeed get a kitten. Her face lit up and she was ecstatic! Max and Violette were also very excited about the new addition.

Miette has been a great addition. She is four months old, so not too little as we have to worry about her with the children. The name comes from the movie, Barbie and The Three Musketeers, where Barbie has a kitten with the same name. Miette is a docile kitten, taking the loving abuse of all the children with stride. She doesn't run away and wants to be near all of us. Noelle carries her around all the time and has yet to be scratched. I think she is the perfect kitten for our family and is adjusting to the chaos of three rambunctious children exceptionally well.
Yesterday was opening day of Deer Season and Zane was sporting his camouflage from Aunt Liz!