Slow down the pace

We left tball a little early today and skipped a lacrosse game for Ryley.  We take their sports seriously but sometimes we just want our Saturdays back.  We felt guilty for a little while but that feeling was gone as soon as we were in the car together.  We drove upstate to my cousins house.  I always love taking the drive because we pass horse farms and drive to an area that is less busy and congested.  I felt relaxed as soon as we arrived.   The highlight of my day was watching my kids play in the pouring rain with no care that they were soaked.  Their clothes and hair were soaked to the bone and yet they were running around with smiles on their faces.  The backyard was one huge playground with lots of laughter.   What sports did we miss?  I don't remember.

Little Things

Sometimes the smallest things can bring such a smile to your face.  Ryley, Joey, Owen and TJ; I hope someday you realize the little things you guys did or said, brought me such happiness.  Here are a ew:

1.  Ryley, I love the books and notes you write to me.  I love when I go upstairs and I see one taped to my door or resting on my pillow. 

2. TJ, I love that you tell me you love me 100 times a day.

3.  Joey, I love how you just can't get close enough to me when we lie onthe couch and you want to snuggle.

4.  Owen, I love when you wake up in the morning and come into my room, you wake me up by saying "good morning, mommy," and give me a big kiss.

I also love: (this is the competitive part of me)

That Ryley scored 2 goals in lacrosse and wants to play midfield so she can play the whole field.

That TJ can handle a lacrosse stick and throw the ball better than older kids.

That Owen likes someone to pitch to him so he can hit the ball far.

That Joey loves to play hockey, tball and now lacrosse and wants to be good.

You guys make me smile every day.

Let's play ball

Spring is here.  It's still a bit chilly, but I at least was able to put away the snow pants and snow boots and bring out the baseball gloves and lacrosse sticks.  Joey and Owen are playing tball. (they look adorable in their hats and baseball pants).  They had their first practice and game the other day.  Owen had a smile on the whole time.  At one point, Joey was on third base and Owen was up at bat and I heard Joey say, "come on Owen, you could do it!"  I just can't take how cute they are!  Ryley had her first lacrosse game.  Ryley scored a goal and her team won!  It was a proud week for the Dargans.  They were all so proud of themselves, and they should be.  Joe is the tball coach and lacrosse coach and I love to watch him with the kids.  He was meant to do this and the kids love it!  Joe must really love it because he went out and bought all the boys lacrosse sticks and we now have our own games in our backyard.  TJ throws the ball with his stick like a champ!  There is going to be some competition around here!

Sweet souls

Saturday was freezing, but we headed out early in the morning for the Hillsdale Easter egg hunt.  We are getting tired of winter coats and hats and gloves but it doesn't stop us from having fun.  The kids gathered lots of eggs on their hunt.  There were a few kids who showed up late and missed it.  There were a few more kids who didn't get anything.  Ryley, Joey, Owen and TJ all decided to give up some of their eggs, candy and treats and share with the other kids.  They were so sweet and felt so bad that some of the kids had nothing.  They did this a few times.  It made my heart melt.  They did it on their own and with no complaints.  I am so proud of them and how thoughtful and selfless they are.  It was a proud mommy moment.

Three Generations

This is something to be proud of:

Three generations.  My mom always tells me how proud she is of me.  I remember her always telling me that when I have a daughter someday I will understand the bond and the overpowering feelings of love.  Well, mom, you were right.   It's amazing.

We love Aunt Melissa

We had the pleasure of going to the Museum of Natural History with Aunt Melissa.  Everyone should have an Aunt Melissa.  The kids adore her and love spending time with her.  She knew everything in the museum and loved sharing all her knowledge with the kids.  Thank you Aunt Melis for such a great day!

Hiking

Hiking seems to be our go to plans on the weekends.  We have hiked when it's hot, when it's freezing, when it's muddy and of course on beautiful days.  I love to be outside with the kids and i love when it's just us.  It's definitely a great way for them to burn some energy, but it's also a great way to get alone time together where it's quiet.  I hold hands with Ryley and have little discussions with Joey.  Owen and TJ chase Hobson.  Our hikes started with Ryley in a baby bjorn, and now I watch all 4 climbing rocks and running up trails.