A Much Needed Visit to WV

As previously mentioned, this past weekend Janey and I flew out to WV with Joe. I spent a few extra days visiting Mom and Beka and her family.

Janey's first plane ride. Thanks for the help Uncle Joe!! You are the best!!

I had such a great time being with Beka and playing with her adorable kids. It was so funny how little things that would happen with the kids would remind me of me when I was growing up; like when little Josie pulled Mary's hair, it reminded me of how many millions of times I had my hair pulled by Hy and Jay. And how Hy would mess up my ponytails on the way to school so I would have to show up at school with my hair looking ridiculous... this stuff scars 8 year old girls!

Anyway, it was fun to be there. I think my favorite part of the whole visit was on Monday afternoon. I was laying Janey down for a nap when Gideon came in to help me. As I was laying her down in the pack-n-play, he matter of factly told me that she wasn't ready to take a nap.

"Oh really?" I said teasingly.

"Yeah, she needs me to sing to her first."

He then picked her up out of her bed, took her over to a chair, sat down and in the sweetest and most gentle way, he sang her I am a Child of God. I cried - of course. I pictured myself holding him as a little baby, trying to get him to fall asleep in the mornings when Beka would bring him to me after a long night, and now this sweet little boy is rocking my little baby to sleep.

He then brought her back over and gently laid her down in the pack-n-play for her nap and said,"Now she's ready to take a nap". I love my sweet Gideon, and I know my little Janey loves him too.

Each of the kids had their sweet moments with Janey. Joseph may have had a few too many... but he did finally learn to be extra soft when he would hold her and instead of rolling over with her he would give her kisses. I love this picture of him, I think it perfectly portrays how happy this kids is.

Mary and Leah were sweet enough to help me with my make-up Monday morning. It was so cute how they are so good with putting on mascara! I guess they've had a lot of practice when they sneak their mom's make-up.

The girls and Joseph helped me make Blondlies on Sunday evening after dinner. They were so cute. Thanks for the help guys!

Little Amos - poor baby had an ear infection while we were there. Every once in a while he would show off his cute little smile though, what a sweet boy!

Ephraim is quite the athlete! We played a little baseball while I was there. Man he can hit! I was bummed that I didn't get any pictures, but the camera probably couldn't keep up with how fast he can run anyway... Here is the little man, snuggling with his mom - what a lucky boy!!

Leah and Mary, helping me feed baby Jane! Talk about a vacation!!

One last photo shoot with Uncle Joe!

What sweet kids!!

Beautiful Beka, with my little Janey. I loved seeing what a good mom she is. Two different nights I was there she left little presents under the kids pillows while they were sleeping - I am totally remembering that one. I thought it was such a fun reminder that you are loved, what a great way to help your kids start the day. Thanks Beka, for the great example you are to me of a righteous woman and mother. Your kids are so lucky to have you!!

Janey loved seeing Grandma again. We miss having her live so close!! Thanks for the chats! It was so nice catching up with you again!!

Last minute pics, right before I left Beka's house.