Making cookies

We spent all afternoon together in the kitchen today making Valentine's cookies. We pulled out our matching aprons (that my darling sister-in-law made for Hol & I for Christmas) & kneaded, rolled, cookie-cut & giggled for hours. So grateful to have this little person as one of my very best friends in the world.

Meet Maleri Joy

Holidays

What a month!?! I think you could say we had a busy December. It all started with little miss turning 3 on the 16th. She loves her scooter, as you can see.

Then, we moved straight into my baby brother's wedding on the 22nd. It was freezing & snowing at the temple, so I left the camera in the bag. I wish I had a shot of Hollie staring in awe at Aubry's dress when they first came out. She just couldn't believe her eyes. The reception was a blast & I managed to take some pictures there, though. They had an awesome dj & the dance floor was packed the whole time. So much fun. Hollie's favorite dance partner? Definitely CJ. When we got home, I asked her if she liked dancing with C & she replied, "Yeah! He's just my size!"

I am officially in.love. with Hollie's mini-bouquet. And the bride's? To die for. My sis-in-law has mad flower skills. Aubry left her bouquet sitting on a table at one point & this is Hollie bringing it back to her. Apparently she thought Aubry needed them at all times.

Three days later, Christmas was here. When Hol came down the stairs, she bolted for the presents, grabbed the first one she saw & hugged it profusely. Unfortunately, just hours later, she came down with pink eye, ear infections & strep. The next day? She gave it to Mommy. So, we spent New Years on the couch. I'm just barely starting to feel better. It was ok, though. I think we needed a little down time. Sadly, Christmas cards didn't get sent & neighbor gifts didn't get made, but we did what we could. We're hoping for a calmer, healthier new year.

December 16, 2006

I just couldn't sleep without telling Hollie how much I love her. At this very minute, three years ago, I was folding your teeny newborn clothes, putting finishing touches on your new room, packing for the hospital...and waiting for my entire world to change. It's hard to remember the person I was before you came to us, because you've changed me so completely. From the minute I saw you, you completely stole my heart. You have filled the walls of our home with so much life & joy. Last night, you let me rock you to sleep. And today, I heard you mutter a sleepy, "I want my mommy" as you woke up from your nap. Thank you for the thousands of moments like these that overwhelm me with gratitude for being your mother.

What's new...

It feels like I have not blogged in ages. We're doing great, just a little busy. So, here's an update. I'm 15 weeks today, have most of my pre-preggo energy back & I haven't thrown up in almost 2 weeks. A month ago, that would have seemed miraculous. There is ONE beautiful baby incubating in my uterus (contrary to some illegitimate facebook rumors) & we can't wait for January 7th when we find out what color to paint the nursery. Boy Sam is also doing great, just trying to ride out the swell of my many mood swings. I couldn't ask for better than him. And Hollie? She's Hollie. Crazy, adventurous, passionate, energetic, loving, curious Hollie. She'll be 3 in less than a week & I just love the little person she's grown into.

On Sunday before church, I pulled out the camera to do a profile belly shot before I really start showing & snapped a few of the Hols, too. How can you not love that face? Except, of course, when she's dumping liquid dish soap on the carpet. It's a little more difficult then.

Cinderella

Hollie thought Halloween was the greatest day of her life. At every door, she would knock & say "I need to trick or treat!" We couldn't convince her that full sentences were unnecessary.

June 3, 2010