Lively and imaginative, Lily is a fun-loving girl! She is our monkey in the middle, but she may prefer lion in the middle. She’s always bringing a burst of energy and creativity wherever she goes. Loyal to her friends and passionate about all that she does. When she’s not dazzling on the gymnastics mat, she’s lost in the magical worlds of fairy tales and musicals, where her talent as a performer truly shines.
Looking back at Lily at 10 years…
Looking Back Archive…
Theo embodies patience, kindness, curiosity, and has a steady nature. His disposition brings a sense of calm and warmth to everyone around him which is quite a feat when you have four sisters who share your birthday. A true baseball fanatic, he immerses himself in the game, both as a player and a dedicated fan. He cherishes the time spent watching and playing sports with his dad and anyone else who will join him. His gentle nature and unwavering curiosity make him a joy to be around; we learn something new every day from Mr. Theo.
Theo at 10 years…
Looking back archive…
Birthdays are a welcomed time for nostalgia and as a strong INFJ, I love to reminisce!
The number 11 has always carried significance in my life. When I was younger it was angel time. Something that felt magical about consistently glancing at the clock at 11:11 am and sneaking in a wish or a prayer. Today, this holds true. There are schools of thought around numerology and deeper connections to realms beyond our own. While I don’t ascribe to this system of thought, I can’t deny the alignment that this number fosters. In some circles, 11 also represents a season of transition. As we approach the V5’s 11th birthday, we are certainly in a season of transition.
Last year, we celebrated the onset of double digits. This year, we are amidst a move to middle school, changing bodies, expanding minds and harder questions about life, significance, and belief systems. We are also witness to bigger feelings and emotions… anxiety, fear, sadness, anger and even rage. Frank and I continue to partner to expose the kiddos to coping strategies that will bring peace amidst the change and will stay with them as life gets harder. In this, we remind ourselves of the value that personal time outs can provide.
We move forward in making new memories to look back on in the not-too-distant future. Please join us celebrating our miracles and this year’s looking back series!
Bella is a pillar of strength in mind, body, and spirit in our rambunctious family. As a quiet leader, she inspires others with her actions and demeanor. She finds joy in reading, writing, and art, channeling her creativity into beautiful expressions. Her passion for gymnastics showcases her dedication and power. Beloved as a sister, daughter, granddaughter and friend, she is always there to lend a helping hand. Bella you’re a cherished presence.
Looking back at Bella at 10 years…
Looking Back Archive…
Change is funny. Sometimes it happens suddenly without subtle warning. Other times, there are hints that something is different or will be. Last night, Frank and I were chatting about the journey our family has been on for well… for the last 10 years… and this week felt different.
Frank describes this journey as if you’re on the beach and you see an island in the distance. You know you want to get to that island, but do so you need a boat and, on the boat, you need tools to fare well in the sea. You also can’t go alone because that may be nice for a day but then we’d end up like Tom Hanks in Castaway. The vision, the boat, the tools, those are easy to obtain. The hard part is getting other people to join you on the boat. Well, yesterday we realized that our boat was full and ready to sail!
We have been pouring concentrated time and energy into behavioral and mental health care for all members of our family over the last several years. Life is hard. Life is harder when you have to share; Share a room, a birthday, your parents’ attention, or dare I say a pair of shoes! We are committed to raising our kids like a garden. We planted the seeds and they all sprouted on the same day. We can’t control the plants, only the soil, food and sunshine!
While I’ve been trying to tame my advice monster, I will give in and share a few resources that have supported us in getting on the “boat.”
Family Journals:
Mental Health Support:
Protected Time:
Family Events:
Helpful Prompts:
I write this knowing full well that it’s easier to talk about hard times after they’re in the rearview mirror. I also write this with the intention to share that our voyage is just getting started and as an invitation to connect with others who may have a difficult, messy or confusing situation. We were made to walk life together.
Sweet Bella Bean continues to walk to the beat of her own drum. She remains our fearless fashionista who can make any pattern or color scheme work. Her pace of life is about as fast as the clouds passing by. Her cadence paired with her empathy is a divine recipe. She has a sixth sense about noticing God’s handiwork from natural anomalies to a water color sunset. Bella is also the first to know who needs a hug. Her big hugs squeeze the hardship right out of you, leaving room for all her love she has to share.
Now, a look back at Bella’s last year!
Belle at eight years…
Bella at seven years…
Bella at six years…
Bella at five years…
Bella at four years…
Bella at three years…
Bella at two years…
Bella at one year…
Bella’s First Year…
My buddy and Dad’s best friend is living his best life. This budding second baseman would spend all of his waking hours playing ball with his neighborhood buddies. And, this summer, he has! Theo loves routine and he’s pleased with a copy and paste type of day. However, watch out when he and Bella get the giggles because they’re unstoppable. Their sillies don’t cease until they say so. It is a true privilege to watch this young man tackle life and learn from his inquisitiveness, gentle nature and saint-like patience.
Now, a look back at Theo’s last year!
Theo at Eight Years…
Theo at Seven Years…
Theo at Six Years…
Theo at Five Years…
Theo at Four Years…
Theo at Three Years…
Theo at Two Years…
Theo’s First Year…
Ellie Rose continues to find her way to the top in all that she does from schoolwork to gymnastics. They told us she’d be our determined one with all of the complication in utero and they were right! She is wise beyond her years and always able to call out the elephant in the room with ease and clarity. If she doesn’t find her way into the Oval Office in 2053 we are hedging bets that she’ll be a compassionate leader wherever she lands.
Now, a look back at our Ellie Rosie over the last year!
Ellie at eight years…
Ellie at seven years…
Ellie at six years…
Ellie at five years…
Ellie at four years…
Ellie at three years…
Ellie at two years…
Ellie at one year…
If you really want to turn back the clock, check out Ellie’s First Year…
Silly Lily Grace has a heart of gold and a contagious smile! She is always ready to lend a hand and loves to fold laundry, a divine gift in this household. She spends the majority of her day in a magical world of her own and the other half seeking sibling playmates. Lily remains our early bird, up by six and on a mission for her banana, raisin bread and sunny side egg. Her day is not done until she has a “night pride” mission with Uti the koala at her side.
Join me as we take a look back at Lily’s last year!
Lily at eight years…
Lily at seven years…
https://player.vimeo.com/video/734542425?h=bf1a09cd5e
Lily at six years…
Lily at five years…
Lily at four years…
Lily at three years…
Lily at two years…
Lily at one year…
Lily’s First Year…
From her first monkey screech, we knew this girl had to be heard. K is an astute observer and is learning daily the power she holds with her tongue. While impulses are her kryptonite, her sky blue eyes are ours. She has learned at her young age how to put on a social mask. However, Her feelings can’t be hidden because she wears them on her sleeve. She may be the toughest of our nuts to crack, but when you do you find the purest joy and love.
Now, let’s look back at Kali over the last year…
Kali at eight years…
Kali at seven years…
Kali at six years…
Kali at five years…
Kali at four years…
Kali at three years…
Kali at two years…
Kali at one year…
If you really want to turn back the clock, check out Kali’s First Year…
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