Happy Independence Day!

THE STORIES BEHIND THE PICTURES:

Candy was promised to the girls if I could get a picture of them together. I love this one for so many reasons. The dresses, the way Kinsley put her arm around Hallie with no direction, even the grumpy scowl on Hallie's face.


We went to the Monument parade with cousins, grandparents and friends. As usual, Mason and Kinsley shared conversations and secrets only they are privy to.


While the kids waved flags and collected obscene amounts of candy, the fellows hung back. It only took 3 takes for me to get this shot without my sister jumping in the background or one of the boys giving a cheesy thumbs up.


Cousin Makena being her normal photogenic self. The girl takes professional direction like a champ. I am not used to a child who will effortlessly move her candy bag behind her when I tell her it needs to go for the sake of the picture.


I just love this picture. Ben has a game he constantly plays with Hallie which brilliantly gets him loads of love. He insists that she does not give him any kisses, and voila, she attacks.


My sisters. It is safe to say that it was easier to get a picture of the kids. This one made the cut simply because I didn't have the patience to analyze the 20 shots my dad successively took. He then made us take individual pictures standing by trees we each planted when we were little.


My bestie. Kinsley and I have a super close connection. We really just love being together. I still rub my eyes in disbelief when she independently gets herself a glass of water or sings along to the Glee soundtrack. Or the way she wants to be held close--when she is upset for making a bad choice--even when she is upset with me--she wants me to hold her tight.


My little bug. Hallie has the most extreme expressions. On one hand, she physically shakes when excited but she can also shoot daggers with her eyes when frustrated. She is pretty cute either way. I am most amazed at her chattiness. Our days are filled with a constant play by play of what she sees and thinks.


My baby. I am now 29 weeks and feeling great. I'll go out on a limb and say this little one is the most active of them all. She never stops moving, turning, kicking. We keep her ultrasound picture on the fridge and I stare at her often looking at her precious little form. I am desperate to meet her.