Those eyes......

I always enjoy browsing through my photo library.....and I came across this photo of Nate that I captured recently....and I love it. 

There is something about his eyes....there has always been something behind those deep blue windows. Before he was communicating with words and was deeply struggling with self control.....before we knew he had autism and had so many unanswered questions....I remember searching those eyes.

You know how some people wear their heart on their sleeve? Well, Nate wears his heart through his eyes. As his mama, I can read those eyes so well.....before he shows any physical emotion I know how he is feeling when I look in them. I know when he is overjoyed, I know when he is scared, I know when he is confused, I know when he is angry, I know when he is content.

Eye contact has never been one of Nate's strengths.....but when he does connect those eyes to mine, there is something that moves me deep down to my core.  His verbal skills have improved tremendously over the years, and we are so thankful to God for answered prayer in this area and look forward as Nate matures in his communication. His self expression is much healthier than in the past, and ironically Nate has the most peaceful spirit of all of our lovies. He can still be emotional at times, but it has been by God's grace that he is learning self-control.

When I look in his eyes I can see where he has been and I am patiently waiting to see where God will take him on this journey. One day, not too long ago, Nate and I were sitting really close facing each other. He was fascinated at the color of my eyes, and upon seeing his reflection in mine, he said, "Mommy, I see Nate in there."  Of course that made me smile.

Boy oh Boy!!

A few weeks ago our family was blessed with the news that we will be welcoming another baby boy this October.  

 All of our lovies are excited for a baby brother.....yes, even Lauren. The morning of the ultrasound, surprisingly she told me that she wanted another brother......maybe she was swayed by all of the chants from the others saying, Boy! Boy! Boy!

It is sweet to see them kissing and talking to my belly. This little guy has been very active as of lately. Jared was able to feel him kick for the first time the other night.  I am enjoying every movement. I feel great, I usually do during this phase of pregnancy. It's near the end where I start to slow down counting down the minutes until the big day.

I am very thankful to be able to be a mama to another little lovie......God is so gracious.  I am so looking forward to holding and kissing this little life that grows inside of me. Until that moment, I will delight in this season of pregnancy.

Just in case you were wondering... our littlest lovie's name is:

Adam Jared

Happy Birthday Luke....

Two years ago today God was gracious to our family as He blessed us with Luke William. It is hard to put into words how much joy Luke brings to our family. I dedicate this post to my sweet son who I thank God for everyday.....

You have an awesome sense of humor.....

You run to the door everyday when Daddy comes home from work.....

You like to wear cowboy boots.....

You like to push your little mower around the yard while Daddy mows.....

Your favorite book is GOODNIGHT MOON by Margaret Wise Brown.....

You like to sing.....

(and I love to hear your sweet voice)

Your nickname is "Captain Cute"...given to you by your brother Noah.....

You are a great napper.....

(Thank You)

You have a few little friends your age that you enjoy.....

You like to jump off of the couch.....

You love to be read to.....

You just started saying your own prayers....

(beyond precious)

You fall asleep in my arms everyday as I rock you and hold you close....

(I have no plans in the near future to stop rocking you to sleep for your nap)

You kiss my belly and like to talk to the baby.....

You have one of the best sounding belly laughs.....

You love, love, love to wrestle with you brothers.....

You tell me when you are sad.....

You are really into tractors right now.....

You love watching Nate build his legos, sitting at the table beside him.....

You like to pretend you are a waiter and take our order.....

(so funny)

You are very cuddly.....

You like to play babies with Lauren.....

(even though this annoys Noah)

You love popsicles.....

(just like the rest of your siblings)

You are talking more and more everyday.....

You really pucker up your lips when you give kisses.....

You are not fond of big dogs.....

You like to watch Monster Trucks and America's Funniest Home Videos.....

You drink lots of milk.....

You are very attached to your bear blankie and nuk.....

You love ice cream.....

You love building with your blocks.....

Your favorite snacks are apples and cheese.....

You love going to the park.....

You tell me you love me everyday.....

All day today, I just kept looking at you, and couldn't believe that my baby was two already. You are a challenge and such a delight all wrapped up in one. I so enjoy being your Mama. Out of all of our lovies you have been the most attached to me, still wanting to snuggle everyday, and I truly cherish those moments. Just your presence brings something so special to our family . I am grateful to God for your life and for the amazing blessing that you are to us. Our prayer for you is that God will do a mighty work in your heart, and that you will grow up with a powerful love for Jesus Christ....our beautiful Savior. 

Happy Birthday Luke....I Love You.

Love,

Mommy