10 months young

And just like that, Walker Roo is 10 months old.  Our chunky monkey can turbo crawl, pull himself up on everything, and loves to babble.  He says "mama" and daddy is practicing "dada" every day.  Our baby can't get enough of his brothers or the swimming pool and his eyes light up whenever he gets in his high chair.  He's slowed down on the weight gain and is steady at 20 pounds and 8 teeth.  I know he'll be walking before we're ready for it and he's learned how to crawl up the stairs but getting down remains a challenge.  Babies are sweet, but oh man this little boy takes the cake.  His smile melts me, how are we so close to ONE already???

And that's a Wrap

Swim lessons came to an official close today, and while I hope and pray that Miss Angela comes back next year, I think I may have to be okay with this being the last time she teaches my kiddos (cue my tears!).  To say I think ISR is the ultimate gift and most amazing skills you can give your kiddos is an understatement.  What Miss Angela did for our family can NEVER be talked about enough...our boys love the water, have confidence with their swims and floats, and I have one more layer of protection when it comes to water safety.  It's said every day that the first line of defense if parent supervision, then a barrier, then swimming skills, and I am so thankful we have all of them in place.  You can never be too careful around water, and I want all our kiddos to be able to respect and enjoy swimming.  Here are some snaps from lessons- I have awesome video on my instagram.

The First Day I Woke Up

Today was the first day I woke up knowing my dad has cancer.  We haven't shared the news yet as we've waited for the doctors' appointments and diagnosis to come in.  I feel like cancer is something that effects everybody, but it is still surreal when your family is the one hearing those words.  My dad has prostrate cancer, and in the world of cancers, if you had to have one, this would be the one to get. It is operable, has a VERY high cure rate, and the doctors all seem optimistic that with the surgery next month, he will be able to say he's cancer free as soon as they remove the infected area.  Everyone is nervous for next month, but with anticipation of a new baby coming just two weeks before his surgery, we are all optimistic and sure everything will go okay, we just know it will.   In the meantime, as we wait for surgery day, we're taking in all the extra play time and crazy dad antics we can get.  We love you Papa and can't wait to help nurse you back to your 100% healthy self!

A Master Yoda Party for the Books

Wyatt insisted on a Master Yoda party and we both had a blast planning it for the last few months.  I did an official party recap over on the other blog, but here are some shots from the big day.  To say he enjoyed himself would be an understatement.  Parties may be stressful and a whole lot of work, but to see your child shine and feel so special on their big day, well that makes it all worth it.  I don't think there's been a day where our kiddos' happiness radiates as much as it does when they are being loved on during their birthday.  Wyatt Bear, a happy birthday you will have!

 

Happy Third Birthday Wyatt Bear

Today the boy who made Wesley a brother and me an official "boy mama" turned THREE!!  He just figured out his age about a week ago and now there is no denying it...we will never be able to pass him off as two since he tells everyone how old he is (so long free movie tickets!).  Sweet Wyatt Bear, this last year has been one of huge growth...you came into your own and your personality has been blossoming.  You have an opinion of your own and you want everyone, especially your big brother, to know it.  I think the 2 to 3 year has had more changes than any we've experienced so far.  Here's a recap of your year-  In the last 365 days, you potty trained, slept in a big boy bed, started going to school, rode forward facing in the car, took up soccer, learned to swim, became a big brother, loved Santa and could pass on the Easter bunny, have started to understand jokes and silly sarcasm, fell in love with Star Wars, decided food is over rated, outgrew a dairy intolerance, continue to play well along and enjoy make believe with brother...Wyatt, you crack me up EVERY day with your questions and observations.  You remember more than I do, and catch on to things I don't even know you're paying attention to.  You are an amazing brother to Wesley and Walker and are finding your place in this crazy house.  I thank the heavens every day that you made a family of four and stretched my heart bigger than I ever imagined.  To the birthday boy, who will tell you he's three today and quickly remind you he'll be four next!, happy happy Master Yoda birthday!  I love you!

40 in and 40 out

Today marked the day where Walker has officially been outside the womb for as long as he was in...so it's actually 40w5d, but who's counting...for 285 days Walker, you have officially been in my arms and to say I am in love, well that would be putting it lightly.  Little dude, we're crushing this mama baby duo, you make mommying the best job in the world.  I love every stage of the first year, yes even the two hours of sleep you get in the beginning, and I REALLY hope to do it one more time (four kiddos will be a breeze Gabe!), but I have to say, this nine month old stint is certainly a ton a fun.  His giggles, his curiosity, his little "mama" when he's sad, oh man it's like music to my soul.

Swim Lesson Update

I am so pleased to say that all three of the boys are ROCKING swim lessons.  Wesley is working on strokes and side breathing, Walker has mastered an independent float and will work on the roll to float sequence this week, and Wyatt is blowing our minds with his willingness to jump in and swim.  He has remarkable swimming skills and can hold his breath for so long so the rolling onto his back is still a challenge but it is getting better every day!  We are so thrilled with everyone's progress and so so so thankful that Miss Angela is spending her summer teaching in California!