keeping up (or trying to)

{subtitle: Life with four older siblings}

One of our favorite spots for a "hike"...The park areas surrounding this lake are really fun, lots of little paths and rocks and hills and places to explore.  We love afternoons when the kids can just let loose and roam - and we're left watching the crazy, and trying to steer everyone in the same general direction :)  

Times like these Luke works so very hard to keep up with the big kids.  Even though he's just 14 months younger than John Paul - 14 months is a big deal when you're only 2 years old -  Those big sibs though, so so precious, they are sweet to look back and encourage him along.

And when the going gets rough ..... well, he's most always willing to hitch a ride on Matt's shoulders!

At the end of the day, most every day this summer, it's baths/showers for everyone.  ohmyword, these kids get so dirty!

Especially the one who spends most of his day trying to keep up with the big sibs!

[Matt and I think Luke might be our most "natural athlete"... who knows what we know, but he just seems more coordinated and agile.  Relatively speaking of course :)  he he.  Time will tell.  Regardless, it won't be long before 14 months is nothing on this little boy, and the tables just might be turned!]