eve of two

The girls have really enjoyed the arts and crafts that we have stashed in the closet.  I'm not sure what I'm saving all of the pre-made kits for; obviously not snowy days, since we usually make up our own fun when the occasion strikes.  Ironically, I could likely open my own kid's camp with the abundance of activities on hand.

Their naturally creative minds astound me; a knack for creativity, a zest for discovery and life - I think that must be the ticket to anywhere you want to go.

The girls find their creative legs as I find my own - in an ever-expanding smash book which is quite possibly one of the best things that could grace my living room shelves - a place to keep all random thoughts, ideas, and need tos in one scrappy and upscale journal of to do lists.

I have had a myriad of other general realizations this week - things that make me wonder, make me sad, and make me better.  It has taken me a long time to get to this point in my life - where I am comfortable with who I am, the things I believe, and losing the fears of whether I am doing things right by others' standards.  A refreshing change of pace to be sure; I wonder why I spent so much of my life worrying about ruffling feathers when all I really did was ruffle my own by muting my thoughts and opinions.  It's an interesting realization to come to - one that makes me wonder, but I also know where all of the insecurities stem from.  An uphill battle all of my life to deal with judgement and inadequate feelings.  I'm thankful to be in a place where I know that's not true (and not acceptable)  - and thrilled to be learning things to avoid this for my own children.

Also?  A pinterest gem inspired me to make up my own puppy chow recipe - full of mint and chocolate.  I can't describe the satisfaction that lies in that bowl, but I can tell you I pretend three handfuls is actually just one.

I have also spent the entire week pretending t-w-o isn't right around the corner, and alas, it came anyway.

We spent Eisley's birthday eve with an unplanned overly long nap while I made cupcakes.

Then, we spent our afternoon jumping and eating, though not both at once.

This smile makes me weak and overcome with joy.  I go to bed tonight remembering the days before her birth; how so desperate I was to meet that mystery person.  I am filled with happiness and pride; and also a bit of sadness that we are saying goodbye to her babyhood.  It went by so quickly, and I have no earthly idea how 24 months have gone by in the blink of an eye.

What a beautiful, humbling soul in a crazy world.  So, so very grateful.


Ruby's preschool scribbles dedicated to baby sister as she turns another year old--

"You're a very special girl to me.  When you are away I get very sad.  Tomorrow is your birthday and you got presents and cards and I really love it, so Happy Birthday, Eisley!  Love, Ruby"


Eisleyism:

Every time I lock the car, it honks, and every time, Eisley says, "Car bark."


To note:

This week, Jimmy told me that I make eggs just like his grandma did.  That is probably the highest compliment of my entire life.

Little Miss happens to believe she should see her birthday from the minute it begins - partying in sister's jammies (thanks, Daddy) and playing with fun new toys that came in the mail.  This week, we hit the jackpot with fun mail from very special people.