Introduction to James, Elias, and Cora

After six and a half long months - Tobias is finally home. We were fortunate enough to have lots of family and friends join us in helping make Tobias' homecoming celebration very special. Here we are about 6:30am as we head out to meet Tobias' ship. Everyone was feeling patriotic. Here's James and his buddy, Clayton, showing their pride. James helped prepare for Daddy's homecoming by making this very special sign. It wasn't exactly what I had in mind, but I'm awfully glad that James added his own artistic influence. Watching the mighty Mac pulling in. Tobias deployed onboard the USS McInerney (FFG 8) the oldest commissioned ship in the US Navy, excluding the USS Constitution (which has sails) up in Boston. Edie, Tobias' mom, and I showing our excitement. While it was hard to have Tobias gone for so long, we are so proud of him! Can you spot Tobias? James had no problems spotting his Daddy and running into his arms. It was a perfect moment! And Tobias couldn...

Having fun and waiting for the warm weather. James loves his helicopter. Here he is playing with his pilots doing rescue missions. Football is still James' favorite thing! Happy boy! James and his good buddy walking through the zoo. Such nice boys. Football, football all the time! It's a bit hard to play football when your mom just wants to take pictures instead of play with you. =) Yummy! Strawberries!! Deep in thought. Look at this little guy - so sweet.

We've enjoyed a quiet February. Uncle Josh painted our bathroom for us and James was his little helper. James enjoyed a Valentine's Day Party at his school. Everyone had a cupcake and some candy. Yummy! We went to the park with James' friend, Lyla, and her mommy. Lyla is about 7 months younger than James. I liked the water fountain picture because of the height difference - Lyla is a cute, petite little girl and James is a nice tall boy! James has enjoyed playing with his 'new' digital camera (my old one). Look at that happy boy! Mommy and James in their Sunday best. James looking super nice in his tie - that he picked out by himself actually. The highlight of our month is hearing from Daddy. Here are some of Daddy's adventures in Costa Rican rain forest . The top picture shows him on a zip line. Look at how high he is above the canopy.

A quick relaxing stop in the Cars couch before heading off to school. I thought this was so funny. Bandit apparently thinks James should share some of that food all over his face. Breakfast anyone? Such a big boy feeding himself. Yummy yogurt! James showing his love of technology. He's so tech savvy! James got a new Cars couch for Christmas. Here he is lounging with his bear and some snacks watching Cars. Mommy's new favorite book! By the way - check out those feet! Tobias' younger brother, Josh, is living with us. He moved in a couple of weeks ago. The highlight for James is having someone teach him some more football skills. Like most toddlers, James loves to run! Fast, fast, fast! Check out this action shot. James may be a kicker some day!