School Is Out!

Whoo-hoo! That is all I have to say!

She Is Walking

Erik claimed that last week ON Carly's birthday, he saw Carly take two steps. Connor claimed he saw the same thing the following day. Well, since I did not see it happen, then I say it didn't count! :) On Sunday, during her party, Carly showed off to everyone...and this time I saw it. It's official. She took a total of 12 steps! Of course, every time she would start to walk I did not have my camera ready. Then, after everyone was gone, I caught her on camera. Check it out...

The Party

Sunday we celebrated Carly's birthday. What a great time! One gift she received was a ride-on train that makes a lot of noise. She loves it! She pushes it everywhere. She enjoyed her cake and really did not make too big of a mess. It was a fun day with family and friends

Monday was her Dr. appointment for her one year check up. She weighs 23 lbs 7 oz and is 30 1/2 in. tall. I really thought she would be closer to 24 pounds since she has not had baby food for several weeks and eats every kind of people food we put in her mouth.....and a lot of it. She is definitely not a picky eater!

This first year has gone by way too fast!

Carly's First Year

Thankful!

Today is Carly's FIRST birthday! Wow! How can that be already? Like every birthday with each of my children, I think back to the day they were born and "re-live" in my head the events that took place that special day. As I think of Carly's birth day, I remember the many different emotions I experienced that day. Something I was not really expecting or ready for. Today though, is different. I sit here and am still filled with *awe* over this precious little girl (something that will never change), but if I had to choose one word to sum up how I feel right now, it would be thankful. I am thankful for this precious gift the Lord gave to us one year ago today. Thankful that the Lord had chosen us to be the parents for this baby girl. I am thankful for her mother who selflessly placed her baby into my arms and put the needs of her baby girl ahead of her own. I am thankful for all our family and friends, near and far, who surrounded us with love, words of encouragement, prayers and support during that time. I am thankful for Carly!

So about Carly.... Carly has brought so much joy to our family and we love seeing her personality come out more and more. She is a *ham* and she knows it! She loves to play peek-a-boo, blow kisses, wave good-bye and talk to everyone. She is standing alone but not yet walking. She loves to eat and I haven't found anything yet she doesn't like. She loves to share her food with the dog too...and of course Cooper loves that! She has the best two big brothers and she lights up when they enter the room. She truly is a joy!

We are celebrating Carly's birthday this Sunday, so stay tuned...lots of pictures to come.

Mother's Day

I had a wonderful Mother's Day! I love being a mom. I love being home everyday and doing mom things. There is no other job I would rather have. I have the best three children ever and I thank the Lord for them! I also have the best mom ever!! I'm thankful for her being there for me and most of all, that she loves the Lord and has taught me of His love and grace.

To quickly recap our day.....in the morning we went to Tim and Tanya's church for Kaitlyn's dedication. Afterwards, we all gathered at their house for brunch and, of course, a swim in their pool. This time Carly got in (2 weeks ago the water was still a bit too cold) and she loved it! I knew she would since she loves her bath time and gets upset when I take her out. The temp here has reached the 100's so the pool was very refreshing!

I have one cute thing to share. One of the best things about Mother's Day is receiving those gifts that the kids make at school. Well, Carter made a card for me and it had some *fill-in-the-blanks* statements. Here is what one statement read about me...... My mom is as beautiful as peas. Wow! Thank you Carter!

Student of the Month

Carter has worked very hard this school year and we are so proud of him. Yesterday he received an award for Student of the Month! This is quite an honor and we are thrilled that he was selected to receive this. His teacher presented him the award and this is what he had to say about Carter....

Carter has shown great strides in his academic abilities this year. He has become very independent and shares many thoughts and ideas unique to most third graders. I admire him for his accomplishments and take great pride in honoring him as my student of the month.

Way to go Carter!

(So I forgot my camera and was not able to get a picture of Carter receiving the award during the assembly.....I am so bummed about that!)

Ready For Her Walk