Our Kids Are Great

I have such appreciation for these two sweet spirits. I wish I could keep them just as they are today, but tomorrow I will find that they have grown-up a little more, again!

Skyler is in 3rd grade this year and is doing awesome. In fact, he has "graduated" from Special Education and moved up to the regular class as of today. He was so excited and proud, just as we were and are. Skyler is such a sweet, sensitive child and is always asking if he can help--especially when it comes to Layla. You can tell that he really enjoys and appreciates being a big brother. Skyler is becoming increasingly aware of the difference between right and wrong and works really hard to make good choices. He is very liberal with his hugs and isn't yet afraid to say "I love you" to his parents. Skyler still asks me to sing to him at night. I can't describe how good that makes me feel.

Layla just seems to learn more and more every day. She is working on mastering the skill of grabbing objects and is doing very well. She prefers to sit up so that she can look around (she hates to miss anything!) and is very strong. Layla tends to giggle the most during diaper changes. She has also started a habit of pushing her stomach out when she wants to be picked up. Her teething seems to be bothering her more, but she's still precious after fussing all day! Layla smiles with her whole self, and I have a feeling that she will have a great capacity for love.

Rick took this picture of the two last night. I think the smile on each child's face expresses what each feels about the other: contentment.