Busy bees...

My girls have been keeping me busy lately.

If I could have one wish, I would wish Isla's non-stop energy and bigger than Texas personality was contagious! Being 6 months pregnant and already suffering from lack of sleep due to two little gals who try to climb in our bed every night... I could really use it! Her ongoing energy and enthusiasm seems to be limitless at times. I love this about her.

While Isla is bouncing off the walls, Laylin is following close behind. She tries to keep up with big sister best she can. She wants to do everything Isla does, but at the same time she is searching for her own independence. She may not say much, but she makes up for it in her feistiness.

Both girls are so different and so similar at the same time. I love watching their bond and love for one another grow daily. They are really starting to play together a lot more. Sure this comes with screams, fighting and usually Laylin hitting Isla, but none the less, they love each other. Isla tries to mother Laylin and Laylin rejects it by trying to run away. It's a push pull relationship, but the love these sisters are beginning to share is so sweet to watch grow.

They are both getting overly excited about the arrival of baby #3. As we prepare by getting the baby things out, I think Laylin is beginning to understand the concept of another baby coming.

I can't wait to see the relationship these two form with our third.

Growing Up...

These two girls are growing up. Neither no longer "babies" all though they will both always be My baby.

Laylin Jane wants to do everything Isla is doing so even though she's small,  I can sense her growing up even quicker. She's starting to talk more, humming songs, dance, run and twirl and is very playful. She's also still very feisty. She has a big temper and is not afraid to show it, but at the same time she is sweet as she can be. I love how she wraps her little arms tight around me now when I'm carrying her or rocking her to sleep at night. I can really feel her love for me and it makes my heart so full. 

Isla thinks she's nearly grown up now. She announces to me everyday... "Mom, when I'm 7 and all grown up..." She tells me about what her wedding will be like. How she will continue living at home with her cousin Lawson and all the fun things she will do. Its so entertaining to hear her tell stories. She is really good at it! She loves to perform, dance, sing and be the spotlight. I, of course, love it too. She keeps my days happy and there is never a dull moment with her.

My blessings, my gifts, my challenges and accomplishments these girls teach me so much about true love, understanding, patience and our Father's love each and every day. 

Feisty Laylin

Oh my sweet and oh so feisty Laylin Jane!

You have really started growing and doing lots of new things lately! You love doing everything big sissy, Isla, does and you want everything she has too! You follow her around like a little shadow. She looks out for you and mothers you now too. I've seen a shift in the way she plays with you, takes care of you and "mothers" you. She calls you her little honey and darling. You are sweet to her too. Giving her hugs and love in the morning, sharing your toys with her and playing together nicely.

You love playing with your babydoll and giving her a bottle. You like to put her in the baby swing to go night-night, but then try to open one of her eyes so she can still see you. You've started exploring everything and are into nearly everything as well. You especially love the pantry and pulling things out of organized places.

You love playing hide n' seek with me and your sister. It's so cute to hear you say, "Rarr" when you find us or when we find you!

You also love to color and do art projects. Usually lots of fun, but very messy.

Speaking of messy, your new favorite thing to do is eat with a spoon. Just like Isla of course, you love to copy cat her at the table. If she has a bowl and spoon, you want one too. Most days, the bowl ends up turned over on your plate or in the floor. Its messy, but its even more fun to watch. I've learned to embrace the mess. Our messy home now embodies our busy and active kids, and that's ok!

You still only have 4 teeth. The cutest little teeth ever...two in front on the top and bottom.
You're still a peanut at only 18lbs, but you are growing at your own pace.

You love to dance and hear music, take baths, give kisses and say BYE!

At 17 months old, you can say....
Isla
Mama
Dada
Bella
Baby
More
All done
Bye
Papa
Mamaw
Ball
Block
Book

Lots of B words, but you are starting to say many other words too! You said your name for the first time this week and it was oh so sweet to hear!

We love your gentle spirit and your sweetness. Can't wait to see what else you are doing in the next month!