We've moved our pots and pans to higher ground to save our downstairs neighbors from the percussion section. James discovered the evacuated 'caves' in the kitchen and now loves to climb in, shut the door, and explore. I wish I could fit too, that looks like fun. Two years ago, on May 11th, we got married for time and all eternity in the Washington D.C Temple. It feels like yesterday. We both can't believe how quickly the time has passed. The past two years have been full years and we are happy to have even more ahead of us.
We celebrated by going to dinner with our friend, Alana. James decided he wanted the attention of every customer and he got it. When we left, the people at the next table thanked us for the entertainment. Funny, I wasn't that entertained. Nevertheless, we celebrated and now have this memory to add to our collection.
So far, this baby has treated me extremely well. I only threw up a handful of time during the first trimester and have been able to do a lot more than I could when James was incubating. I've had the usual fatigue but overall have felt pretty good. This little guy kicks and squirms, but not so much that I am uncomfortable. At least, not yet anyway. He just nudges his confines and reminds me he's there. I love that.
Judging by how I've been feeling, this little guy seems to have an easy-going personality. I'm looking forward to meeting him and hope James learns quickly the 'baby rules'. Things like: 'Don't poke your brother's eyes' or 'Don't drop toys on your brother' or 'Let the baby sleep'. Fun will be had by all.
My home town has a parade everytime I have a birthday. I am not lying. See:
But, being the modest person I am, I rarely tell anyone that it is my birthday. In fact, I do such a good job, I would be surprised if anyone at the parade would even know they were celebrating my birthday.
We packed up the family to go downtown to see the parade. Grandpa helped James to see over the crowd, but James seemed to be more interested in a Thomas the Tank Engine balloon over in the Midway.
I told Charity how I always wanted a funnel cake, but never got one. This year was no exception. Maybe I should learn to make it at home...
We all had a real nice time. I love family.
Baby Maggie definitely had the best seat. Drums and Trumpets didn't phase her. She is so Cute!
I've been very slowly working on a quilt. James has been helping me. Hence, the slowly part.:)
After a day of running around Grandma's house James decided to eat something to gain his strength back. He went back to exploring cupboards and drawers soon after but we were all happy he had finally eaten. He was so busy that he didn't eat much when we were there.
We had a lot of fun at Grandma's house. I read a western and relaxed. This was made possible by Grandma and the Howell contingent who kept James from unloading all the cabinets. I also got to think a good deal about the next Howell baby as he kept kicking my book. Thanks for giving me a real vacation and a break, Grandma Howell! I only hope the weekend wasn't too tiring for you and Josie.
Little Margaret melted our hearts. I got to hold her on Sunday. I felt her sweet spirit and her newness of life and couldn't help getting teary eyed. What a beautiful little girl. 
Daniel had his birthday this weekend. Grandma Howell made him a delicious chocolate cake with a peanut butter topping. It was great. Daniel felt loved. He got cake, beans and chips, and then the next day stuffed shells....plus his regular presents. Heaven.
Ahhhhh....... She is so cute!
In other news, Daniel has perfected the art of bagel making. James loves them because he's teething and they are better for chewing than bread. We love them because they make less crumbs for us to clean up.
James continues happy and healthy. We sure love him. 
