Bonding time with the Boys

so I would have had some new pictures to put up today, except that the internet wasn't working last night. I took the cutest pictures of the boys together after I got home from work yesterday. It utterly amazes me how much Avery loves AJ. You can see the love he has for his little brother by the way he holds his hand, or kisses his forward, or even just looks at him. I hope and pray that the love, bond that they have will last through the years.
Since having AJ, we have tried to make sure that Avery has his alone quality time with each of us, and with us both so he doesn't feel left out. Which means, I will take him to the store with me, even though I know it will make a 15 minute trip a 20-30 minute trip. I have come to love that little quality time Avery and I have, talking, singing as we go up the aisle.
Last night I had to run a few errands and decided to take AJ with me alone as I hadn't gotten that alone time with him lately. I loved every minute of it, as we strolled through the aisle of Michael's and Wal-Mart getting little things we needed for the house. AJ was in his little pack I wear/carry him in... and he'd just look up at me and smile. He had been quiet for a second and I looked down and he was asleep holding my shirt... I just stopped in the aisle and watching my sleeping child and just soaked in those precious moments. I know the proudest title I have ever, and will ever wear is the title of Mom.
As we go into the 4th tomorrow I look forward to celebrating this holiday with our new expanded family of 4. How precious these holidays are, and how lucky we are to be in the land of the free. I stop and think and pray for all of our men and women who stand up and fight for our freedom every day. I am allowed to feel safe at night because of those wonderful men and women...