Father's Day, 2010

I am so lucky to be surrounded by some amazing men. First, my father, who has always been there for guidance, who has always worked hard to provide for our family, and has loved me unconditionally. You are such a wonderful man! You are a a walking encyclopedia and full of knowledge. Thank you for teaching me all about the World around me and for always making me smile. I am so lucky to have your as my Dad! I couldn't have hand picked anyone better! I love you bunches!

Next, to my wonderful husband. You are an amazing father to our 2 children. From day one, you were a natural. You have always been the late night feeder, and as much as I know you did it to help me get some much needed sleep, I know you did it more to get some 1 on 1 daddy time. You are always patient, caring and a great role model to our children. I couldn't ask for a more hands-on dad for our children. I love you dearly and can't wait to see how our life unfolds with our two little blessings. With you in it, I know it will be full of fun!

To Father Bob, my second Dad, you play such an important part in our lives. You have helped shape Jeremy into the wonderful husband and father that he is today. You are such a great example to your two boys. Thanks for always being there for us and your grandchildren. I am a lucky girl to have found not only a wonderful husband, but also a second dad! We love you so!

Lastly, to my 2 brother-in-laws. I always wished growning up that I had a brother, and am so thankful that I have TWO! David- you are the the handiest of men, your talents are endless. Whether it's putting together a winning pinewood derby car with your oldest son, or finishing your basement on your own, you can do anything! You are loving and patient with your children and a great Christian example. Jeff- you were born for the role of father and are a true natural. You are always hands-on and have passed on your wonderful sense of humor to your girls! Your children truly adore you and so does Mackenzie!

Happy Father's Day to you all!

And now...some pics and highlights from this weekend!

We celebrated Father's Day at the Buzzard's Lakehouse this past weekend. We enjoyed 2 full days there and swam, went for a boat ride, did some tubing, layed out on the dock and enjoyed some family time. The weather was amazing and it was the perfect way to celebrate Father's Day.



















Happy Father's Day!

Surprise Party

This past weekend, we threw a surprise party for Mackenzie and Caleb's daycare provider, Lori.  She has been such a huge part of our lives and we are so sad that she will no longer be watching children at her house.  We have grown so close to her and trust her completely with our children. However, we are so excited for this next chapter in her life and know that she will be a great teacher & addition to any elementary school.  Saturday we had all the families that she currently watches over to our house for a cookout.  Everyone brought something delicious to share and the kids played, and played, and played.  Since they are used to spending 8 hours a day with each other, they could play independently and happily, without any issues or meltdowns.  It was so nice to just sit back and watch the kids run around, while we enjoyed some kid-free time.  After the cookout, we gave Lori a "teacher bag" monogrammed with her name.  It was filled to the brim with supplies for her class and a scrapbook filled with pictures, notes and memories from all of us.  The weather ended up being perfect, the kids had a blast together, and the adults enjoyed a night hanging out laughing and enjoying each other's company. We were so glad we could celebrate such a wonderful woman who will forever be cemented in our hearts.  Good Luck to you, Lori!  We will miss you dearly!

Thank you Lori, for caring for our children like your own. For all the little phone calls after a rough drop off, for the sweet texts letting us know our little ones were having fun and involved in a craft, for always answering the door at the start and end of the day with a smile and sweet story. You will always be a special part of our lives and we will miss you dearly!

Caleb, 5 months

It's hard to believe my baby boy is 5 months old already.  It seems like he has been a part of our family forever.  Many of my friends who have only one child ask me how the transition from 1 to 2 has been.  Honestly, it's been a breeze.  Somehow we managed to get the easiest baby in the World.  Don't get me wrong, he has his fussy moments, and still struggles with reflux and indigestion, but compared to Mackenzie as an infant, he is a piece-of-cake.  I hope he always stays this way!

Here's what's going on with little man:

*He eats around 4-6 oz,  every 3-4 hrs during the day.  We make sure he gets good volume during the day, so that he sleeps well at night. 

*He eats cereal in the morning, but usually just a few bites b/c he hates it.  We have slowly introduced peas, carrots and pears.  He is a fan of all three and can't get enough.  I am crossing my fingers that he is as adventurous as an eater and easy to please as his sister, when it comes to eating.

*Caleb can roll from back to belly, but still struggles with rolling from belly to back.  He has only done that a handful of times.

*If you sit him up, he can sit unassisted for about 5-10 seconds.

*He still sleeps great at night, and has become a side sleeper.

*Caleb is super strong and grabs purposefully at things.  He puts most things into his mouth and is a drool factory  these days.  I am predicting teeth in the near future.

*Caleb is still a happy boy, with a heart melting smile.  He is laid-back and go with the flow, which is good when you live with our family!

*His hair seems a lot lighter lately, almost blonde in color.  Mama may have to go back to her natural hair color one of these days!  We are still thinking that he may have my light eyes, but time will tell.  It would be nice to have one kid with a few of my genes.  :)

*Caleb has started to show some early signs of separation anxiety.  If he cannot see one of us, he starts to fuss. So sweet, how just seeing us can provide comfort and reassurance.

*He has become quiet the chunkster these days. My once skinny legged baby, is now a well-fed butterball. Love it!

And now...some photos of our sweet 5 month old...

Happy 5 month bday, Caleb!  We love you bunches!