Ava Elizabeth Simmons

We are so blessed to have a new niece!  Ava Elizabeth was born on Monday morning.  She and Briggs are just 24 days apart in age.  How fun to have a little cousin so close to your own age!

Clayton & Lindsey have a beautiful little girl!  We cannot believe all her hair...

3 little boys in the mountains

Last weekend we took all three boys to Boone to get a Christmas tree.  This was something we had hoped to do for a few years, but I am not sure we should have kicked off this tradition with a 3 week old, 3.5 year old, and 2.5 year old.  Eli & Knox had a great time, but J and I were exhausted by the time we got back to Greensboro.  I was humbly reminded that we need to slow down for a little while, adjust to being a family of 5, and get a handle on zone defense rather than man-to-man.  I think Jerrold had his doubts about us surviving the day, but he didn't discourage my plans...he has way to much confidence in me!  All in all, it was a nice day.....

Briggs-2 weeks old

Their Adventures...

Eli & Knox are two of the most imaginative, creative little boys.  The games and adventures they create in their minds always amaze me.  They are at home full-time this year and I have been able to witness everyday how much they are ever-changing.  These pictures are from a morning that I was so surprised at how well and how long they played together in the yard.  Their friendship is so sweet.  They really are best buddies.

Briggs Mitchell Simmons

Our sweet little boy is finally here.  Briggs Mitchell Simmons joined our family at 4:36 on Friday afternoon, November 4th.  Considering the difficulties of my pregnancy we expected a big baby.  I am not sure any of us expected him to weigh 10 lbs, 11 oz!  We are already completely in love with this little boy.  As we drove home on Saturday evening we marveled at how much love God gives us for our children even when we have only known them a few hours.  It is unimaginable to me that this love pales in comparison to God's love for us.

Eli & Knox will be coming home this afternoon, but have already spent some good time with their little brother.  Knox appropriately calls him, "Biggs", and Eli begs us to whisper around him.  The next few days and weeks will be full of much joy and some difficulties, but we choose to focus on this tremendous blessing God has bestowed on our family.