The Swingset.....

We continue to be amazed at how quickly Owen catches on to things. We got this swingset when Ava was a whole year older than Owen is right now and she was scared to go up the ladder at first. She also needed us to catch her going down the slide. Well, this is not the case with Owen. He quickly learned to climb up the ladder and isn't afraid to just fly down the slide. Ava seems to like to have someone to play with and is happy to help Owen out with things. Owen certainly still needs close supervision, but we are amazed that nothing slows him down!

Preschool Pictures....

Ava had her preschool pictures this week. I decided just to go ahead and post my snapshots instead of waiting for the professional pictures. If they turn out anything like our recent church directory pictures, I'm not holding out much hope! Luckily, they took the pictures before snack time at preschool because Ava came home with about a gallon of chocolate milk spilled all over her outfit!

Fun With Daddy....

Owen loves his playtime with Daddy

All the necessities...pacifier, blanket, silver flats :)

Owen's shoe obsession continues and Ava's are just the right size to slip on and wear around the house. Some day he will probably want to shoot me for this :)

Ava & Owen's Baptism....

Several attempts...the best shot of them together Owen's turn to get baptized

Ava's turn to get baptized

Pastor Josh, Our family with Sponsors Hannah & Luke

We tried to get Owen with the cake, but that was not successful

On March 24, 2012, we had both the kids baptized at our church. Grandpa and Grandma VM with Addie and Sam, Grandma Joyce, and Hannah and Luke (sponsors) came to the service. I was very upset when I realized I forgot to do pictures at the church with everyone. We had time before the service, but I remember thinking that we would just take pictures afterwards. Of course, I can't remember anything! The baptism went as predicted. Owen didn't want to be held and was fighting to get out of our arms, but both kids cooperated during the actual sprinkling of the water. We talked with Ava about how baptism meant she was part of God's family which she seemed to understand; however in true Ava form, she was concerned about how much water was going to get on her new dress :)

Lawnmower Out in March?

Ava getting her first ride of the season

Owen is intently watching every move the mower makes

Owen gets his very first ride and seems to love it!

Brad got the mower out and thatched the lawn last weekend. Both the kids were noticeably excited. Ava immediately assumed her position riding along with Daddy, but I think she may have a little competition this year. Owen can be scared of loud noises, so Brad had the engine on low speed when he gave Owen his first ride and it was a success. Owen seeemd to enjoy every minute of his ride around the lawn. So nice to be having such great weather to enjoy!

Cabinet Fun!

Who knew that so much fun could be had in a cabinet? Well, these two love to empty out the toys (Owen usually starts it) from the cabinet along side the fireplace and then play in it. I remember Ava doing this same thing when she was about Owen's age. Owen especially loves when Ava shuts the doors. All you can hear is giggling!

Bath Time...

Owen just loves bath time. He enjoys playing peek through the shower curtain liner. It is one activity that he will always be in a good mood for!

A Few Snapshots...

Big Shocker--Owen refuses to look at the camera

Owen cried for his picture with Daddy, but Ava was her usual cooperative self.

Hannah and the kids

It's been nice enough to go outside nearly every day. What a wonderful spring we are having!

Never a Dull Moment....

This would be Owen checking to see if anyone is looking before he makes a mad dash into the pantry to get into something!

You see, Owen had already taken a bath and had is PJ's on and was all ready for bed when he decided to sneak back into the bathroom and "leap in" with Ava! I can't say I've changed too many diapers that were completely soaked in bath water! Oh Owen- how dull life would be without you!