Snow!

Halloween

Puyallup Fair

Eleven years and two kids later...

...and we're still in love! Many things have changed, but not the spark that started it all.

Today Stu and I celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary. What a blessing our love is, and the family that we share brings such joy! We had a nice lunch out together while Papa Gil and Grandma Ginny watched the boys. It was a beautiful day to be on the Tacoma waterfront, dining and walking along Ruston Way.

As Papa and Grandma observed, Ben's growing up quickly; he's not a newborn anymore. He's looking cuter to us every day, and especially when he's smiling! He's also making noises and "talking" to us a lot. It's fun and exciting. Billy's doing great too. He sometimes pretends to also be a baby, but most often he enjoys the benefits of being a big boy. He's found a few ways to act out for supplemental attention, but overall he's adjusting quite well to the recent changes. We're getting back into a routine, and that seems to feel good to everyone.

Next up... the Puyallup Fair. (We'll be there within the next two weeks.)

Growing and Changing

Both our boys have been growing a lot lately. We see clear differences between them already, and I thought you'd like to see for yourselves!

Settling In

Benjamin

Benjamin Thomas Correll was born on Tuesday, July 29 at 8:21 am. He was 7 lbs. 4 oz. and 21.5 inches long. He's very healthy and is adorable, soft and sweet! Billy is welcoming to his new brother, and the transition into a family of four seems to be going smoothly. We feel very blessed!!

Thomas Train

You know who Thomas is, don't you?!

It was a beautiful summer day, and we had a great time meeting Sir Topham Hatt and some of his trains in Snoqualmie. The train ride took us right over the Snoqualmie River.

PS- Happy 33rd Birthday to Aunt Ruthie!! It's gonna be a good year!

Expecting

Yes it's down to the end of the pregnancy, and we're ready and waiting for our second son to arrive. The due date is July 22, which means anytime now! Personally, I don't think he'll be early, (based on my past experience,) but many have predicted he will be... we'll just have to wait and see. And most likely if you read this blog, you will be alerted the birth right away.

We are aware that our lives are about to change forever... and are both nervous and excited about that... but having a son as wonderful as Billy contributes to a general feeling of confidence. Billy seems to be as ready as can be for his brother's birth. He has a baby doll he's been practicing holding, and is fully aware that there's a baby in my tummy- (it's hard to miss!)

We've got the carseat in the car, the hospital bag packed, diapers stocked, and clothes washed... and that means we're ready, right?!!

Warm Thoughts and prayers much appreciated!

Ocean Shores

We had a great weekend at Ocean Shores; blue skies, warm sand, and lots of family fun!

Oops! (I guess we've been busy?!!)

What a beautiful weekend we had, and it looks to be another sunny day. Billy and I will be out in the backyard playing on his new play set, and weeding as much as possible. If it's warm enough Billy will want to play in the sprinkler again. We've also got our usual Monday chores to attend to, and dinner to fix. After posting a long overdue blog update, I will feel confident to accomplish my goals for the day!!

All is well with the family. Last night during Billy's final trip to the potty, he told me he loved me in the sweetest voice. I was attempting to remain quiet, and whisperred back "I love you, Billy." He took my face in his hands, looked me in the eyes and said, "No, a little louder." What a guy! I responded just as he had requested, and also gave him a kiss; he really just melts my heart. And now that I know just how much a mother can love her child, I am looking forward to the arrival of our new baby in anticipation of a puddle where my heart used to be.

Saturday was the birth day of our new cousin Avery Oosterwyk. We look forward to meeting her this week. Contratulations to the new parents and grandparents!!

Happy New Year

*Up top is Billy with Auntie (Tia) Ruthie, and Uncle Eric at Thanksgiving.

*The cowboy outfit is one Grandpa Dwight (Papa White) brought him.

It's 2008, and we're excited to be starting a new chapter in our lives! Stu just started a new job on Wednesday, at W.G. Clark. It's a construction company in Seattle, where he'll be working on their tech-support team. We're especially pleased that he will not be traveling for work anymore, (aside from his daily commute to Seattle and back.) Readers of this blog should already know this info- as well as the exciting news of our second child due in July. We heard a strong heartbeat at the doctors on Monday, and are beginning to fall in love with the little one already.

Billy is still a complete joy. He had a great time during the Christmas season, and met Santa for the first time. Since he's such a good boy, Santa Claus brought him just what he asked for- a geotrax train set. Santa ofcourse wasn't the only one to bring Billy gifts:) Billy also loved all the special family get togethers. Stu and I loved being witness to his joy and excitement throughout the holidays.

Have a wonderful New Year!!