Birthday eve

On Michael's birthday eve, our house is calm with the kids in bed early and Ryan and I nestled in for a movie. It's been a busy weekend and frankly, we're all pooped. Sweet Elena is eager to help celebrate Michael's big day, but is clearly trying to hide some envy. She's working hard at it though and it just shows what a loving little heart she has.

Michael has truly mastered some of the words I've mentioned, favoring, 'no no' and 'uh-oh' all the days long. And in the last week, he's seemed to grow up so much, finally beginning some small steps around the furniture (not that we're in a hurry. The contrary.) and going from a squatting position to standing for very long periods of time. Big boy!

It's so hard to believe he's a year and equally as unbelievable that he's only been in our lives for a year. He's added so much. But for today, he's still only 11 months old. I'll remember this time for as long as I live. I love you sweet La and Michael, little lights in our lives.