{growing}

Today, I was reflecting on my life--and all of the many changes that have taken place.

The main theme that came to my mind was

growing.

My ever changing and growing belly is really starting to show now. I am amazed at how fast this pregnancy has flown by. I want to remember this time, and feel like I need to write down a few things so I can keep track of all the different stages and changes taking place.

- I am 6 months along right now, and feeling pretty darn good.

-Aside from some mild heartburn and a few sleepless nights--all is well. (love my body pillow)

-My only 'real' complaint is that I get pretty tired during the day and lack the motivation to do as much as I would normally like to accomplish.

-This has been a bit of a challenge for me, because I am definitely a mover and a go-er, and like to stay busy. But, I have found that in the early afternoon--a nap is the only thing that I feel like doing.

-So I am trying to get over the fact that not everything always gets done during the day....and that is ok! A sink full of dishes and a pile of laundry can always wait.

-Plus, I have really enjoyed relaxing in the afternoons while reading a good book, and playing with Tanner.

-Still have a strong dislike for cola drinks.

-I love feeling my baby girl move around, and it always brings a great big smile to my face.

-No big cravings, other than-- I love eating fresh fruit, string cheese, chicken tacos, and any kind of soup.

Now,

Look at this picture above!

This photo was taken over three years ago.

Hunter was 3.

Tanner was 1.

How did these two boys of mine grow up so fast?
Hunter will be turning 7 yrs old in less than 2 months.
Tanner is 4 yrs old.

These are the same pictures from up above--with a side by side comparison of how much these two have changed over the past 3 years.

I am trying my best to cherish these moments, and take joy in the journey of raising them and watching them grow. My patience unfortunately hasn't always been the greatest as of late, but I am trying to do better. I feel blessed with the strength and help that I need to make it through each day.

Well, ok so most days!

{a call to caucus}

:Iowa Caucus:

The state where every vote counts...literally!

The Iowa Caucus was held this past Tuesday. I felt very deeply, that it was important for me to get out and make my vote count during this 2012 Caucus. Little did all of us 'Iowans' know, that the final count came down to 8 votes! 8 little votes was all the separated the first and second place candidates. It gave a whole new meaning to the phrase "every vote counts." So, come Tuesday night at 7pm--Steve and I headed to our designated place to caucus with two little boys in tow, and participated in this great event. I am so glad that we live in this great state, known for it's corn and caucuses-- and that we could be involved in this very important process. These experiences are ones that we will not soon forget, and I am happy that my boys could come along, and see the importance of what we were taking part in that night.

Don't my kids look thrilled to be there??

They'll thank me someday :)