October 2020 - The Last Fall Walk

On what was probably the last warm fall day, we took a walk around the Ancaster Ruins loop. It is a good hike, and I'm glad James was with us, or I don't know if I could've made it. :) 

Little girl peeking out. Such a cutie. 

I got more pictures of Jason and the younger ones, as the older kids were a bit ahead, and we didn't keep up! Jason did so well through the long hike - He made it about 3/4 of the way, which impressed me. 

Trying to just "look" and not get completely soaked by the stream. 

Writing down notes of some sort on the way. :) 

I love this picture of these two. Jason so content with Daddy. 

We had a picnic supper part way, and then at the end, rushed to get back before it got too dark or rained. A nice evening. 

October 15th - Remembering Them

October 15th - when we get together with Ben & Deanna, and Brad & Diane's families to remember the babies that we've lost, write their names on a balloon, talk to our children about the value of life, and send these balloons up

This year, Katie wrote a short message to her four siblings and attached it to the balloons - sweet gesture. 

It was cold and windy, and you couldn't see much, thus not great pictures - but it's another memory for us, and especially our children, who are growing up in a death-focused culture - that God created life - and HE alone is the Giver and Taker of life. 

 Sending them away. 

October 2020 - Thankful

On a walk through the village to the ponds and back. Fun and laughter - and teasing Uncle Brad. Cousins & so much love for each other. 

 

October 2020 - Smiles, Babies & Playtime

He's starting to get into the other kid's shoes. Trying them on - which is pretty cute. I love when he helps me when I'm dressing him, or putting clothes/jackets over his head. He is getting it. 

                                         

We went up to meet Derek - Sarah & Jonathan's little guy. :) 

Such a great mama. 

Caught him reading in the girls room. 

These two especially, play a lot of games together - Pandemic has been a favorite since March (lol) and lately it's been Ticket to Ride. All the kids play different card games together, and it makes me so happy when they are having a blast together. Of course, there are often issues between them - we all are being sanctified. ;)

                                                                     Daddy and Jason. <3

Little man in yellow - ready for bed. 

September 2020 - School Time

Leanne doing her school work. Crazy to think I have 5 in school now. 

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Laura listening to her teacher - with Bob Jones Distance Learning. 

Love catching Jason, being all big like his siblings. :) 

 

September 2020 - Just Life around Here

James helping Erik with his breakfast of the week. Each of the four youngest have a night where they make breakfast for the next morning - Erik makes sheet pancakes. Sometimes, it ends up only a few of them make it one week, or maybe one, but they almost all know how to make their recipe alone - and can bake it too - which makes mornings a lot easier. 

Shantel and her mom had our family over for dinner, which was so thoughtful. The kids played "the frog" game with her and did a lot of laughing. 

Took Jason to get his eyes checked - needs stronger lens, so we will get those soon. 

And this guy can ride a tricycle by himself now! At the beginning of the summer, I tried to attach blocks so his shorter legs could pedal - as he was strong enough - but just short... :) 

But he can do it now -  and am so proud of him. :)

Katelyn has been trying to get Leanne to learn how to write a bike. 

 Katie took me on a date - bike ride to Tim's, and some treats for everyone. She had just done a babysitting job for an Auntie, so she wanted to bless her siblings with some treats. So sweet of her.