Another mouth to feed

Nursing my babies has been one of the best natural gifts of my life.  I have been exceptionally blessed in how easy they have taken to nursing.  I try not to take this for granted, knowing that so many people really have to struggle to make this work and others just can't. 
Everyone knows of the obvious benefits of nursing...mainly ease and nutritive value for baby.  But some of my personal favorite benefits of nursing are...
...the almost-tranquilizing effect a latch has on a squirmy, fidgety, fussy baby.
...a milk-drunk baby face...sleepy eyes, half smile, pure bliss...
...big bright eyes staring up at me... goes without saying, this is the opposite of milk-drunk.  although, the smile occasionally accompanies the big bright eyes.  then my heart melts and I start dropping big fat tears on the baby.
...sitting still, me and my baby, several times a day...with two kids I need to be reminded sometimes to pee or eat.  at least I always make time to sit and stare at my baby.
...convenience and ease. (I know it's an obvious one...but really, there is enough to remember with two kids...I don't need the extra hassle of sterilizing nipples and keeping formula on hand!)
...the magic that is my body making exactly what my baby needs.  (again, this is a given...but REALLY - my body makes exactly what my baby needs for exactly his/her age...it is truly magic!)
...the 'conversations' that Max and I have after she eats.
...a sweet baby holding my finger or resting a hand on my breast.
I am so grateful for this time and this gift!

Father's Day 2011

I am not the father, but I thought Father's Day was a perfect day. 

We snoozed until 6:30 after a stormy night.

We gifted Daddy his grill, photo, cooler cups, and stepping stones.  Cole gave him a special gift that he made at school - a brick with his handprint.

We made biscuits and gravy for breakfast. (Derek ended up cooking *with an audience* - what a guy!)

We watched CBS Sunday Morning, drank coffee, and the boys put together Daddy's new little grill.

We went to Na & G's and enjoyed the pool.

We came home and all four napped (at the same time!) for a couple of hours.

We made Smokey Mountain chicken for dinner.  (Derek ended up cooking again - Dad of the Year!)

We snuggled in to watch a movie together, 2012, in which the Daddy was the hero.

Derek and I talked about how wonderful the day was and how lucky we were to have these awesome kids.

Cole and I talked about how great the day was and how lucky we were to have the best Daddy.

Cole told Derek to stay home from work because he would miss him.

Derek told Cole to never grow up.

 Being a dad is a big job that I try to never underestimate.  I am so grateful for the father that my kids have!

Happy Father's Day, Derek!