
Scarcely a day goes by that I don’t use the phrase, “since this is Ben’s last year at home we need to make his favorite soup/watch Princess Bride/play more soccer ball in the backyard…”
His requests are taken pretty seriously these days.
So finally, after several months of Ben dragging a folding metal chair outside to do his homework and insisting that a front porch is just a slab of cement without seating, we bought a swing.
Bowl of soup (in his favorite orange bowl), Harry Potter on the iPod, Ritter Sport sweatshirt and a perfect fall day– I can’t help but admire someone who can eek all the goodness out of one hour.

Jeanelle
Mary’s facial expression is pure perfection!!
Alyson (New England Living)
Oh, I love it! You are such a great mom!
Annie
1. Can I come live with you?
2. You have beautiful, amazing kids.
3. I really get this.
I’m a year behind you with Lauren a junior this year but I am still falling into the “well, this might be the last summer….” or “we’ve never been to Disney World with the kids! Should we go this year before Lauren leaves?” kinds of statements. Et cetera. It’s bittersweet.
Selwyn
You are amazing to realise the significance, to act accordingly (that swing is fantastic!) and take the time to capture the moment.
Though I’m a bit worried about the pirates Mary sees off the port bow.. She looks like a princess warrior =)
(And I love how Ben just keeps eating his soup!)
Tracy
awww, look at Miss Mary in her MJ. You are an amazing woman. Can I come try your swing out sometime?
xoxo,t
martha corinna
You have such a beautiful family, and your home looks gorgeous Michelle! Love all the green.
Linkous
Ben you are a stud! I can’t believe you have only one year left at home! Seems like just yesterday that you, in your noble goodness, said to your mom, “It’s just not fair that Kevin and Kit don’t have kids yet, I hope they have a baby.” And now here we are 3angel babies later and you the strapping lad that you are! Thanks for hanging with us at priesthood ( you too stefan:)it was fun to see you guys!
dalene
you know i’ve been there. glad to know you’re enjoying it!
Tricia
How is it possible that you can take a simple picture of your boy eating soup from an orange bowl and turn it into a work of art? Just beautiful Michelle.
Catherine Hess
Gosh, I can’t believe your kids are getting so big! I remember when Ben was born…wasn’t it just 5 or 6 years ago??? It’s kids like him who make me feel old.
Ken
Sheer joy! Thanks for sharing the “shining moments”.
I love you!
Dad
Mitchell Family
Ben, Good call on the swing. How have you managed so many years without it?
Linn
I learn so much about being a good mom from you. And I know you don’t even mean to–that is the best part!