Singing Hallelujah

Parker has been really trying to immitate words lately. He was sort of a late bloomer when it came to talking. He was more interested in balls. Fittingly, his first word was ball. Later came his first sentence "it's a ball." Here he started saying hallejulah when we were watching a youtube video of american idol.

It's funny how this will probably mean nothing to anyone else, but as his mom I think it is the most adorable thing ever.



Oh, and my little sister was the camera-woman. She needs a little practice.

Casey is finally engaged!!

My brother has been dating a wonderful girl named Sheralee. She is perfect for him. Sheralee is kind, talented, and spiritual...and she rock climbs. So obviously, a perfect match. They are going to get married July 30th and I'm so excited. Sheralee, welcome to the family!



They let me take some picture of them. Check it out at photography-by-ashley.blogspot.com. I have a lot more time now that school is almost out and I've been doing a lot of photography. Let me know if you are interested.

Inspiration for today

What an inspiration! Any complaint that I've ever had in life seems silly compared to the hardships that Stephanie has and continues to endure day to day.

I love how she said that motherhood and beauty are the same thing. I think, as a woman, I always want to be beautiful. I spend time, money, and energy trying my best to fit the world's definition of beauty and I'm never really satisfied. There is always something I would change about myself if I could, but when I look into Parker's eyes and when I feel his kisses I feel more beauty than any amount of money could buy or any amount of time could produce. I spend way too much time thinking of ways to improve myself, never quite living up to my expectations, but when I tickle Parker and hear his infectious laugh I don't think of inadequacies. I think about how blessed I am. I think about love. I think that is why motherhood is synonymous with beauty. Nothing is more beautiful.