Off and running... well almost!

About 3 weeks ago, just shy of 9 months, Gabe took his first steps and he hasn't stopped cruising yet!  He's getting quite good- can stand up without pulling up, turn around 360 degrees, and can walk and wave or carry toys with him.  He went from the traditional Frankenstein lumber, to bustling around the house in no time. He just loves chasing Will and Ella around the house now.  We are so proud of our little guy!!  Just love him to pieces!! 

You can see him walking in this video and get a quick listen to his contagious little laugh! You can also hear Will and Ella bickering in the background.... good grief... :-)

My boys...

Fantastic 4!

We had a wonderful time celebrating Will's fourth birthday last weekend with many of our friends and family! With 17 kids under the age of 5 in the house, it was hilarious!  It was, of course, a construction themed party with all of the birthday boy's favorites!

Chicken!

Tool belt treat bags!

The dump truck cake- complete with Will's favorite malted milk ball boulders.

Tool cupcakes.

Nan made DIRT!  And served it out of the back of a dump truck! So cute- and quite a hit with the kiddos!

Gabe and Ella helping out!

 The house all ready!

The birthday boy!

We set up a workshop of sorts in the basement where the kids did some projects. 

Painting construction sun catchers.

Beading a tool lanyard or bracelet for their tool belt.

Pounding nails into bricks!

Working hard!

Ella!

The other Ella!

Maddy.

Chase painting his truck.

The other Maddy!

Will and Brooke painting.

Benjamin practicing his hammer skills.

Happy birthday buddy!

And the highlight of the day!! Joe called our project manager to get them to park a back hoe in the lot next to ours so the kids could climb on it.  They were SO excited!  Way to go Dad!

Most of the gang...

Benjamin!

Will and Jackson!

Chase!

Ella and Kylie!

Kylie and her dad Chris.