A Few Good Men

August 17 is a big day around here. We celebrate 19 years of marriage today and Alec turns 15. I remember when Alec was born, how excited we were that he would arrive on our 4th wedding anniversary. We have shared this day for many years now and it is a reminder of my good fortune each and every year.

Sure both of these men can literally drive me out of my mind in their own right but they are also such a blessing. Alec is the smartest boy I know and very much a gentleman. Yes, there are times we dislike one another immensely but I am genuinely grateful for the day I was privileged enough to be in the delivery room to hold him for the first time. To experience motherhood for the first time. My dad sent me an e-mail recently that reminds me of then and now.

""GET OUT! I'M DRIVING" soon to be the mantra of the Ringhiser household. Or perhaps... A---L---E---C!

My amazement mirrors yours. I remember too well the circumstances surrounding the arrival of my dear and oldest grandchild along with the utter breathtaking beauty of the baby boy who was a miracle from the start. What blessings were in store and what challenges lie just ahead."

As we go forward into teenagedom--Give me strength to deal with the challenges and help me to recognize the accomplishments of a boy becoming a young man. Help me to remember that is part of being a good mother.

And then there is Ray. A man dedicated to his family and ME more than any I know. As I get older and experience life more I realize how hard this trait is to come by. So many marriages just don't make it and I am so lucky to have one that is stronger now than ever. I am grateful for a man who adores me and loves me despite my faults, unconditionally.

Today, life is good.

Make A Wish

Today Olivia turns 11. I have been informed by her that I "must" post today as I have been neglecting my blogging duties and this being such an important day...deserves it's own entry. Of course it does! We welcomed Oliva into our family 11 years ago and have been so blessed by her it would be impossible to put into words. She is well informed, well spoken, well rounded and most of all well loved! It has been so fun to watch her go from little girl to young lady. She is exhibiting all of the normal signs of "tween-itis" and it is hilarious to watch. Sleepovers, chatting on the phone, g-mail, giggles, fashion and even boys seem to be the "thing" of the moment. Almost a year ago exactly we moved to Maple Valley and I was so worried about her finding a place to fit in. She shared with us that her birthday wish last year was to find one good friend and I am thrilled to say she has been blessed with many. The transition has been a relatively easy one for her due in large part to her large personality. As a parent it is so great to see your children happy. I'm not sure what she's wishing for this year but with her confidence, determination and a little luck I know she will make it happen. She has that way about her. I am thankful to "know" her and look forward to another year of possibilites. We love you Olivia.

Mom, Dad, Alec, Carson and Addie

Too Lovely

Too sassy.
Too cute.
Too naughty.
Too loud.
Too funny.
Too busy.
Too happy.
Too fast.
Too loved.
Too smart.
Too blessed.

Addie turns two today and we are reminded of the call two years ago that blessed us with our baby girl. Words cannot express how much joy she has brought to our family. Wish us luck as we attempt to survive the "terrible two's". We look forward to milestones yet to come, talking, potty-training, and more personality. We love you Miss Addie.

Daddy, Mom, Alec, Livvy and Carson

Thanks Chelsea for the pretty pictures!

Easter Hosanna

Look at these beautiful kids..they clean up well. :)

Spring!

Spring Break is over and we are back to the school grind this week. We had a good week and were thrilled to have Ray take a day off work last Wednesday. We ventured to Seattle to the Pacific Science Center. The highlight there had to be the butterfly house which the kids couldn't get enough of. Alec (as you can see) had the honor of being a butterfly's "perch" and couldn't seem to shake the little fellow. We watched an Imax movie, saw bugs that were utterly disgusting, and ate in the overpriced cafeteria. The kids seemed to have a great time--Addie refused to sit in her stroller (as you can see) and we spent most of our day chasing her from one thing to the next. The weather for once cooperated all week and the rain came back just in time for the weekend. Swell.

Who's that girl?

I have realized I haven't put any recent pictures of Addie on the blog for quite some time. As you can see her hair continues to grow and take on a life of it's own. Having a toddler is wearing me out but she's my girl. We hang out together, we're a team.

She's our Star...

Olivia participated in the school play this year, PETER PAN. She played Starky the pirate and did an amazing job. They practiced for 3 months several days a week and it was well worth the wait. The production was amazing. A great set, amazing costumes, and wonderful singing and dancing. Livvy has come a long way over the past few years. She has struggled with terrible stage fright but seems to have conquered those fears in a big way. Drama and singing are definately "her" thing and she seemed to thrive in her element. We are so proud of her. Take a look.

Carson turns 7

Carson turns 7...How is that possible?

Well another birthday has come and gone. This one seems to have surprised us in the sense that is just doesn't seem possible that seven years have passed us by since Carson joined our family. I know all parents must feel that way but it has sincerely been a joy to be his Mom. He is soooo full of personality, charm, giggles, talent, fun, etc. we are amazed by him on a daily basis. Carson is a great student, a great "ball" player (of all sorts) and a great brother. His birthday was on a Sunday this year so we are anticipating his "friend" party in a few weeks (after Spring break). He loved his new I-pod Nano and his money from grandma and grandpa that is burning a hole in his pocket. So many choices...he simply cannot decide at this point. It was a great day full of frosted brownies with sprinkles, lots of dancing and overall joy. We sure love you little man. Happy Birthday!

Starting Over

Starting over.

O.k. O.k. haven't been keeping up on the blog thing. No working camera has been a big issue, moving in and getting settled over the last few months hasn't helped either. So... here we go, another attempt to document our life here in Maple Valley.