Half-year old

[I just realized I never posted this! Better late than never.]

Tevi's 6-month status:
19.0 lbs
26.5 inches
2 teeth on the horizon
sits, bounces, grabs, demands

And now a little something for the grandparents (because anyone else will be bored stiff):

Good things

We had a nice Valentine's Day. Thanks to my sister we had our first date without any kids since Tevi was born. It was so great to spend some time with just Aki, even if it was in Costco. ;)

Last week when I had just gotten over being sick, a friend of mine came to visit and helped me so much. I hope she knows how much it brightened my day! What a gal—I guess that's what friends are for.

Baby news! I just learned that one of my favorite people is expecting. On top of that, one of Aki's cousins and her husband finally adopted a precious baby after years of waiting (see Baby Leila above)—I can't think of two more deserving people. Also, my cousin Emily found out baby #4 she's carrying is actually #4 and #5—twins!

I'm going to have a super productive day today, since my kids are spending the holiday with their aunties, so it's just Tevi and me at home. I miss them already, but I think I'll enjoy being able to do some things with just one child to worry about.

Finally, my brother Brigham was just promoted to the army rank of Captain (here he is getting "pinned"). I am so proud of him . Congrats! Incidentally, Brig's baby boy turns 1 today. Happy Birthday to Max! I love you, little guy!

Heavenly Day

Feel free to change my music player to song #2 "Heavenly Day" while you read this...it's only appropriate.Today is a great, good, wonderful, happy day. I have such a sense of RELIEF. Why? Oh, I'll tell you why:

1. For the last few days, I was sicker than I have been in a really long time, but am feeling like myself today. Good health is not overrated.
2. We bought a new van over the weekend (okay, Aki bought it while I was whining in bed). My kids think it's "sweet." Best part: I no longer have to ask for rides! Can I get a hallelujah?
3. Aki officially got a new job and will be starting it later this month. Closer to home, more time at home, better benefits, and job stability. Amen.
4. Tax refund.
5. Speaking of money, Aki and I had our "budget meeting" last night to make sure we're on the same page. We covered lots of ground, made plans and goals, and that is a hopeful feeling.

So now I'm going to focus all this good happy energy on getting my house in order, specifically:

• organizing the pantry and food storage
• finding the camera charger
• putting away the laundry
• and changing the sheets.

Right after I love on my little piggy for a bit. Because he is heavenly.

Photography Giveaway

Who wouldn't love a chance to have new family photos taken, or have your little ones' cuteness captured on film? My talented friend Jenn—of EYEFUL PHOTOGRAPHY—is doing a giveaway for a photography session. She is the one who took the newborn photos of Tevi (see below), and of my cute niece and nephew (image above).

Click here to find out more about it and enter! You'll be glad you did!

all images via Eyeful Photography