Almost-summer joy

Here are some pictures from our weekend.  It finally feels like summer is here, and we made the most of it despite one bout of strep throat!  I just want to share some joy after the last, rather heavy, post.

I was about to pick up Nick and head inside to get some things done when one of my kids cried out, "Mom! All five of your kids are playing on the swings together!"  They were right; this was a special moment!  I ran in for my camera!  This is one thing I love about summer and vacations -- when they slow down enough to get bored -- and then discover they do still have a lot in common.

This not-so-little man turned 8 months old on Friday, May 17!  Time flies!  He is such a joy!  Have I shared the story of how Brendan said one day, "Mom, I knew I would love him, but I had no idea I would love him THIS much!"  Seeing my older children interact with Nicholas has really sold me on the benefits of having young children even when you also have older children around.  He has brought so much joy into our lives, and has taught all of us so much about love!

This pile of rocks was, for a short time, home to a big blue beetle my boys found outside.  Luke actually cried when the beetle inevitably died.  (How I love his sweet heart!)  Don't worry: We held a proper funeral for Blue, and a catepillar soon made himself at home here.

This was one of my Mother's Day presents.  We've been wanting something to put on this pillar for a long time!  Colorful flowers always make me smile!  Especially ones from my children!

For some reason, our lilacs are mostly brown this spring.  They still smell wonderfully, but they don't look so great.  Except for this one purple bloom I found!