Erika Rowland's blog

CHILDREN GO OUTSIDE AND PLAY!

The day started with yogurt covered kisses- Bella proudly is eating all by herself.  What started as a push in the right direction from me, has now become a QUEEN of independence and don't even think about helping her out!

Nap time meant building forts with Hayden- I can't get over how quickly he can tie a knot to make the the blanket stay on top.

Then the Nanny came and Moodus and I were out hiking!  Notice the HUGE smiles on our faces... happiness truly is knowing your children are well cared for while you GO PLAY!

  
  

The day before surgery, one would be a nervous wreck. Quite the opposite for me. Though I realized my spirit is far more ampitious than my body, today Moodus and I hiked up Mount Monadnock (without the children). To not worry about the tree roots (that make Hayden fall), the low branches that might get into Bella's eyes, or the rocks above was such a liberating feeling (don't get me wrong I love hiking with the children). Moodus and I were able to just be on the mountain. I needed to breathe, clear my head, and tire my body out. I am definately tired, I know I will get a good night's rest, and I am ready for tomorrow. To put this all behind me, is an incredible feeling.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ODZEE37ik0

Moments Like These, I WISH I Could Just Box Up!

Hayden asked me tonight to sing to him.  He had woken up scared by the shadows on the wall.  As I crawled into his bed, I thought this is why I became a mom.  I have never know love that is deeper, sweeter than this!  This morning we were sweetly entertained by Hayden singing, I am Super Man (by REM), while running around the living room with his Super Man Pajamas on (for the longest time they were called Super Boy because he didn't know what Super Man is-honestly I do not think he still really knows)!

BALANCE

This year my goal is to find a HAPPY balance between the many hats that we all wear.  For me, has a wife, a mother, and a teacher...I struggle with keeping myself afloat.  I have been given a second chance to stop.  I have learned to BREATHE and enjoy the moment (even if it entails wiping poop while explaining why it is not winter, summer comes after spring even though there is snow on the ground and yes I would love to come and see you play tomorrow night!)

 

Reduce, Reuse, Recyle

Hayden discovered how to make pink..."Look Mama when I do this and this watch what happens!"

After spending a morning of saying, "No thank you Bella these are Mama's glasses" Bella needed a pair of her own.  Though she does not like to wear them, she is most proud of using them to hold the paint brush!

"TA DA"

Hand-Me-Down pajamas...but you get the idea!

Next project...flowers!   
  

Sweet Bella

Bella definitely is the second child- first time eating ice cream ten months old, first time eating a chocolate bunny this Easter, and though all these firsts are happening much sooner than I am proud to admit she is thriving!  She has spunk (ok let's be serious she is sassy) and has a sweetness all at the same time.  She is the easiest child, just goes with the flow and truly content with what life brings!  The ergo is our best friend, can't imagine a day without it!

Happiness is seeing the pure determination in her!

 

Happy Hayden

 

From the moment I knew I was pregnant, Hayden has always been active.  I will never forget one time reading to my class when all eyes were fixed on my belly (not the story).  Hayden was moving around and it was hard not to watch as my belly changed shape.  At four Hayden has a wonderful laugh, truly makes others laugh out loud.  Like most four year olds that I know, he is curious about so many things, asks LOTS of questions, loves to dress up like a cowboy, sing, and dance around!  Here he is "NOT a bunny, but a mysterious cat!"

Perhaps the apple does not fall far from the tree- singing and making music like his Papa!