My Boys!

Here are my beloved boys!

Ethan is VERY excited about his new brother Samuel!

Ethan and his amazing Dad!

Samuel and Daddy!

A sweet kiss!

The family

such a cute grin

my precious Samuel

cousins born 14 hours apart: Avalyn and Samuel

My parents with the babes!

silly Ethan

Silly guys playing

The boys on a bear hunt!!!

deep in search

 The boys' first of MANY baths together! I enjoy bath time very much already!

Cutie pants Samuel!

Ethan and Dad trying to catch the frog in the pool!

Ethan is excited about it; but a bit hesitant.

taking a peek

Oh man I love this boy!

My sweet sweet oldest son Ethan Riley!

Some things I want to remember about Ethan:

1. I was sitting at the lunch table, I think hormones had me a bit sad that day- I cant quite remember. Anyway, Ethan looked at me and said, "Jesus loves mommy." I smiled and was reminded of the Lord's great love for me. Then Ethan said, "Jesus loves me." I love my son Ethan, he is so sweet. I told him, "yes, Ethan, Jesus does love you and me."

2. Samuel was crying in his car seat when I ran QUICKLY to the bathroom. Suddenly I heard him stop. When I came back to the kitchen, Ethan had left the table where he was sitting eating his lunch and was rocking Samuel in the car seat; and Samuel and fallen asleep again. How sweet sweet! Ethan has been so helpful to me; rocking Samuel, bringing him toys, and bringing me water or a burp rag when needed.

3. Finally, a crazy day when Samuel would not sleep; for about 6 hours during the day- Ethan woke up from a nap, I was crying and Sam was crying. Ethan said, "mommy want some water?" We give Ethan water at night when he cries. Then he said, "I go help Sam," walking into Samuel's room. Then, last resort, Ethan said, "where's Daddy?" He opened the bedroom door where Steve was sleeping, he works nights, and runs in yelling for Dad, "Daddy come on!!!!" Ethan is so funny and knew exactly how to help us! Run for Dad if nothing else works! I love him and he has been wonderful!

I have been thinking about the following verse during this not always easy transition in life:

Psalm 26:3 NIV

"for I have always been mindful of your unfailing love
    and have lived in reliance on your faithfulness."