Good Times!

I just finished spending a few day with my sister Josi and her beautiful children Isabella and Ben.  What cuties!  I think the thing I like the most about spending time with my niece an nephews is getting to know their little personalities.  (and to check out how their parents deal with them!)
First off...if there was an award for the most patient mom on the planet, Josi would win hands down!  There were a few times where I would have lost it, and put each kid in the corner (with their hands behind their back and standing on one foot of course!) haha.  But, calm Josi just sat with them and did her "I need to tell you something" quiet lecture.  It was cute.  And even though one half second earlier, both kids were screaming at the top of their lungs, tears flowing, Josi's quiet voice got them to hush and they would listen to every word she said.  I was super impressed by how much little Ben understood.
Speaking of Ben....oh my goodness!!!!  That kid is so super sweet.  His smiles brightens up any room, and his fascination with giraffes cracked me up!

The very first thing he did when he came into my house was go straight for these little giraffes.  I asked him very politely to please not touch.  So....he didn't.  He just squatted there and stared at them! haha. 
I loved the "stillness" in his face, if that can even make sense.  When he wasn't smiling (which was not very often) his face was so perfectly still.  I could stare at him for hours!

Now, little Bella...what a funny girl!  If she wasn't being oober sweet to Ben, she was being a lil' bossy thing!  She certainly speaks her mind, and lets you know, without doubt, when she is not happy about something.  I know she loves being a big sister, but I feel that she loves to still be a baby too!  We had so many giggles when playing "baby".  I don't know how many times we sang "You are my sunshine" in sign language and I'm sure she could do it all day.  Bella is a gorgeous little girl and like her lil' brother - has an angelic face that lights up the room.

Right before they were leaving, Isabella found the "worlds smallest fly".  I had to capture her and Josi as they carefully looked at this fly!

They have only been gone for one day, and I miss them!  I miss hearing Ben and his "hey baby!" I miss Bella's sweet face and of course, I miss my litte sister.
Josi and I have been getting closer over the past couple years and I am loving every moment with her.  Some may think she is a little "opinionated" but I say it's honesty.  I love that she will always be truthful, and honest and fair.  I love her sense of humor and I love knowing I can be myself around her.  I love that she is goofy and fun.

Josi has become a friend to me....not just a sister.  I thank God for her, and am so happy to have her in my life.  I don't think we go 2 days without talking/texting/emailing, whatever!  We're always "on top" of the going ons in eachothers lives.  It's important to me to have her close.
I love you Josi!!