Birthday hike & 1 month!

It's amazing how much can happen all at once, when really all you are doing is sitting around nursing a baby.  This past weekend, Jacob took 10 kids (plus some support) on a 2 mile hike at Patapsco State Park in honor of Hersh's birthday.  Sender and I met them at the end of the hike for a donut celebration. This was exactly what Hersh had requested, a hike and donuts, as his birthday party, and it was perfect. Great weather, great bunch of kids, a happy birthday boy, and a little sister who rocked the big kid hike!  Now this week we will celebrate our sweetest first babe turning 8!

And then yesterday, Sender Matson, turned 1 month old!  He is waking more each day (and night--but let's not discuss that).  Likes to eat every 2 hours, and is so engaged when his big sibs get home from school.  He's a real sweetie.

AlteLu is still our sunniest lover, who is also working herself out.  If nap gets skipped, she can be a bit bristly, so we are focusing on love, support, firmness, and honoring her.  I am grateful to have her as my daughter:)

We also enjoyed our last OKECC Truck Day, where AlteLu was happy to have Clover and I along for the ride. Then we attended Hersh's birthday lunch--a special milestone each year!

Newborn photos

In honor of Sender's birth we took newborn/family photos.  The weather held out, everyone was happy, and the results are priceless.  I cant believe how grown up Hersh and AlteLu look, and I know that this time with Sender as a newborn is fleeting.  Even though we're tired, our hearts are full of love!