Family Picture Day

Some of you have noticed the new blog header picture.  Zachary and Annaliese came up and we took our first ever family pictures with All Ten Kids.  I'm actually a little stunned when I look at that picture.  It doesn't feel like that many people (usually).  Dang.  That's a big family!

After pictures, we went home, where Paul made us a lovely brunch.  

It was so nice to have the whole family together.

Katie calls Annaliese "Ni ni lee!"

It's painfully cute.

Annaliese went through the boxes from her bedroom while she was here, tossing some stuff, passing some down to younger sibs, and taking some away with her.  She had me pack away her 3 favorite stuffed animals for "someday when she has kids" in my hope chest.  The next day, I read, "I miss my children as little children. There are some moments that this ache is so strong that I would happily take one of the tantruming, screaming moments that so drove me wild just to be able to hold that little person one more time."  Totally got me teary-eyed.  

This big guy is all settled into his new apartment near his new base, which is just far enough away that he's in no danger of us "dropping in" on him, and just close enough that he can visit often. 

After brunch, all the big kids went outside to play football.

These two played really nicely together in the house.

Lukey hung out upright in his stander/walker.

Big brother telling little brother the next play.

I love this picture.

Lots of laughter.

Lots of action.

Afterwards, we took a trip to the store and then Annaliese showed us her mad smoothie making skillz she's recently gained at her job.  She even let Hannah help her.  

All in all, it was a lovely day.

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