The Mergenthaler Family

Andrew is now a big 7-year old, and Ricky has hopped into the double digits. Because their birthdays are 3 days apart, they often combine some of their celebrating. This year, we celebrated all weekend and into Monday. Andrew began the celebrating on Friday with his birthday.  Andrew is sweet and easy to please. He wanted to go to the library on his big day. So, after piano lessons I took the birthday boys to the library . . .  Easy! We have a thing going on here in the Iowa City area called Herky on Parade. The University of Iowa mascot is a hawk named Herky.  Several sponsored artists have made different versions of Herky over the years to be on display at local businesses, parks, and community centers. Currently, there are 83 of these guys around. The boys are excited about counting how many Herkys they can see and if we can stop, they want a picture too. The Coralville library has "Father Daughter Herky," so that was the first of many Herkys the boys have been photogr...

There's a lot to write about, and I know I promised to write more. Unfortunately, I still find that I am too busy to keep it up--even on my phone at piano lessons. When I find that I have a chance to sit, I rather read a book or stare off into space, or talk with the kids or Rick. So, for now, here are some pictures. Most of them could have a funny story or a witty comment, but you will just have to imagine what those might be if I took the time to write them. The pictures are a peek into real life at our house--some fun, some messes--all good things, all good things! (These two pics above are of Emily on the day she got her braces off).  (Clubhouse in the shower) (Cleaning out the toy box) We are happy. Life is good. 

Here in Iowa, St. Patrick's Day always falls on spring break. This year, for spring break, we aren't doing anything special except some pet sitting while owners are away on trips.  I have ended up with a few cute pictures, though. Getting pictures of the girls that they approve to be posted online is getting to be quite the challenge. I understand because I don't like pictures of myself either. I think the girls won't mind me posting these. Last Saturday, while Dad was busy at work I took all six kids to check out some deals at the outlets. After shopping for some time and not finding many deals, we went to McDonald's to get Shamrock shakes.  St. Patrick's Day itself was on Monday, the first day of spring break. Ricky was so excited for spring break to start that he got up at 6 am. I was already up at 5, but an early start sometimes makes for a very long day. If I were a cool mom, I would have made them a special green breakfast. Instead, we ate the  usual and g...

Literally!  But she is just too cute! The toddler stage is so much fun!  If she would just sleep through the night consistently like most toddlers, we would be in much better shape. Nonetheless, I love this sweet little girl. She gives the best kisses and hugs (if she doesn't get overwhelmed and decide to bite or pinch your face instead). She is generally happy and has outgrown crying in the car anytime we have to go anywhere after dark. She likes treats (typical of most Mergenthalers).  She is learning some new tricks, including climbing the stairs and standing on her own.  Sometimes she can be a little crazy.  But she is always a lady. When sitting, she nearly always crosses her feet at the ankles.  Yep, she's our little princess and we love that she is a part of our family.