Winter Break

The kids are back at school, but not after having a fun, relaxing winter break.  There was also a fair share of doctor appointments, cleaning, sibling fighting, and surviving.  We loved having Matt home for a week.  He enjoys going on family outings and making memories.  We were blessed to have the opportunity to take some of the kids on individual dates. We are thankful for the opportunity to pour into them.  We also hit the movie theater a couple of times, went bowling, made a trip to the zoo, visited Hannah and Micah's China buddies, celebrated Christmas and the new year, and cheered on Nathan at hockey.

Maelee had some milestones.  Matt is the wheelchair whisperer.  Maelee had some outings in her wheelchair with Matt's help.  She still does not buy the whole wheelchair thing when Deanna introduces the idea.  We are working on Maelee's acceptance of the wheelchair.  Maelee is becoming more attached and showing more trust.  She understands a lot of what we say and is growing in her ability to communicate.  Her first two word phrase emerged this week, "No way!"

Micah's lunch date with Dad

Maelee's first wheelchair outing

Maelee received her Certificate of Citizenship.  She is official!

Claire's special birthday trip to American Girl with Mom

The kids dressed up to celebrate New Years Eve.

Happy New Year!

Micah's China buddy

Hannah's China buddy

Maelee has drank some sips from a straw!

The long awaited reindeer, Santa and snowman pancakes.

Hannah's date with Mom.

Maelee's first time falling asleep in Mom's arms. 

Maelee's first time sporting pig tails.

Hannah and Maelee are still working on getting along.