The Blanchard Adventure

Look Alikes...

2009-10-19T08:09:00.000-07:00

Below are a few pictures of Kailey and Anna. YES, we know they look JUST ALIKE!!! I love it!

Top: Kailey

Bottom: Anna

Below: Kailey's Announcement Picture

Below: Sweet Anna Grace

We are so blessed to have TWO beautiful girls! I can't wait to see what fun the future holds!

Anna Grace

2009-10-19T07:46:00.001-07:00

Our sweet Anna Grace arrived on October 8, 2009 at 10:00am. She weighed 7 lbs. 15 oz and was 19 1/2 inches long. She has blonde/brown hair and blue eyes. She is absolutly perfect and has already touched our hearts in so many ways. She made a REALLY fast entrance... One minute I was just hanging out in the labor and delivery room and the next nurses are running around, Greg and my Mom are running down the hallway and the doctor is sweating when she arrives... 68 minutes of TOTAL labor and 2 pushes and our sweet baby girl was HERE!

Anna Grace is such a sweet baby. She is very calm and oh so sweet. She barely cries, and only does so when she is hungry. She is a GREAT sleeper (just like big sister Kailey) and doesn't like to be in a wet/dirty diaper for long. She really looks A LOT like her big sister, sometimes it catches me off guard when I look at Anna and see so much of Kailey in her.

I am recovering really well. I think this was actually an easier recovery than with Kailey, I really only had pain where my epidural was.

Big sister Kailey is really loving being a big sister. While we have had a few jealous moments, overall Kailey really loves to hug and kiss Anna. She is such a big helper and wants to help Mommy do everything... diapers, feeding, etc. And she is quick to remind us all that only "big girls like me" can have chocolate milk and m&m's.

We have had family in town for a couple of weeks now and boy has it been a HUGE help. I haven't been to the grocery strore in weeks thanks to my Mom and Greg's Mom and I think I might need to learn how to use the dishwasher and washing machine again. Our wonderful friends have been bringing by meals and that has also been a huge help! Thank You to everyone for your love and support. We can't wait for you to meet our sweet Anna Grace!!!

When Kailey was born...

2009-10-07T09:26:00.000-07:00

It really feels like Kailey was JUST born yesterday! It is hard to believe that tomorrow (10/8/09) we will add another member to our family! Kailey has brought us so much joy and happiness, we are excited to see what this new member adds to our already blessed family!

Kailey was born on Wednesday, January 3, 2007. She was born at 12:18pm, weighed 8 lbs, 8.4 oz and was 21 inches long. That day will forever be etched in our minds and I am sure tomorrow will be added to one of those "never to forget" memories.

Kailey is so ready to be a big sister, she talks about baby sissy all the time and is constantly asking when she is going to come and live at our house! This morning I told her that sissy is going to come tomorrow and Kailey was SO HAPPY, she hugged my tummy and just kept telling sissy how much she loves her! It was so beautiful and touching!

As I reflect back today on when Kailey was born I can't help but think how very special Kailey is and how she has made our lives so much better! She is truely a blessing and gift from God! I am both sad and happy to be making this transition from one to two kids, but from what I hear after baby #2 is here it is hard to even remember what it was like to only have one!

Below are a few pictures from when Kailey Louise was born, oh what a special day that was...

Tomorrow is THE day...

2009-10-07T09:25:00.000-07:00

Well, the day has come for baby girl to make her debut! We will be heading to the hospital at 5am for an induction! Please pray for a safe and easy delivery!!! Stay tuned for details of baby girls arrival!!!

MDO- FIRST day of School!

2009-09-16T13:02:00.000-07:00

Kailey started MDO about 3 weeks ago... SHE LOVES IT!! We went to meet the teacher day and she wasn't too sure about it all, we met her two sweet teachers, the music teacher and the PE teacher. Yes, they actually go to music and PE in addition to regular "school." The first day went pretty well, she was sad when we left, but the teachers said she only cried for about a minute after we left and then she was fine! On day 2 she walked right in looked back at me and said "bye Mommy, see you after lunch." It was bittersweet, so glad she loves it, but a little sad that she loves it enough to just say bye:( They have a really tight schedule and do lots of fun things in class. She has already come home singing new songs and she loves to talk about her friends at school and what they do each day. One of my great friends sons is in Kailey's class so Kailey loves to talk about Ben and they sit by each other at lunch everyday. There are only 7 kids in her class and 2 teachers.

She goes twice a week, it has been really great to experience a little "freedom" for those few hours. I got my hair done one day, ran errands another and now that I go to the doctor weekly I go whenever she is in school. It will also be nice once baby arrives as it will give me some time with just baby. Kailey loves her school and I can't wait to see what wonderful things she learns this year!

This was her first project... They each made a collage so if they get sad at school they can look at all the people who love them!

Baby Shower...

2009-09-08T14:15:00.001-07:00

My great friends threw me the MOST AMAZING baby shower...It was breathtaking. They did an amazing job and everything was so special and wonderful. They did a bird theme, the invitations had a bird nest on them, their were bird cages throughout the house, the table linens were gorgeous... various prints with a bird/nest theme, napkins with feathers, white chair covers, votive candles spread throughout, and take home nests with almond "eggs". The food was SUPER yummy too! Fruits, quiche, cake balls, salad, chicken salad puff pastries, pasta salad, key lime pie, a yummy cake, punch, tea, etc... YUMMY!

I was so blessed to have so many wonderful friends in attendance, it really means so much to us to have made such amazing friends in our short time here in Houston. We are truly blessed.

Baby girl and I received many nice gifts and we have been having fun playing with everything and getting things all ready for baby girl to arrive.

35 weeks

2009-09-08T14:13:00.000-07:00

How your baby's growing:Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that she's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (pick up a honeydew melon). Because it's so snug in your womb, she isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times she kicks should remain about the same. Her kidneys are fully developed now, and her liver can process some waste products. Most of her basic physical development is now complete — he'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight.

33 Weeks!

2009-08-25T13:29:00.000-07:00

This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds and has passed the 17-inch mark. She's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and her skeleton is hardening. The bones in her skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for her to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a conehead-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as her brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.

Surprise Baby Shower!

2009-08-18T06:39:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Kailey and I traveled to Baton Rouge. While I was there we saw lots of our friends and had a lot of fun! On our last night I thought I was going to meet up for a simple dinner with some girlfriends, but boy was I wrong... I showed up at Walk-On's (one of my favorite places) and all of my girlfriends were there and yelled "SURPRISE" they had planned a surprise baby shower for me! It was so wonderful! There were a few ladies there that I didn't even know were going to meet us for dinner! Amy (the master planner) did a great job planning it secretly! We enjoyed a yummy dinner, opened gifts, took pictures and ate some REALLY yummy desserts! I really have the best friends in the world! Baby girl received lots of nice gifts... from diapers to wipes to clothes and everything in between, she is one lucky little girl!

Amy the master planner

all the ladies!

super cute hooded towel

gifts for baby girl!

32 weeks!

2009-08-18T06:29:00.000-07:00

Well, we are at 32 weeks now. I just can't believe how fast this pregnancy is going by. I see the doctor every 2 weeks now and go again on Thursday.

How your baby's growing:By now, your baby weighs 3.75 pounds and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, she'll gain a third to half of her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as she fattens up for survival outside the womb. She now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). Her skin is becoming soft and smooth as she plumps up in preparation for birth.

30 Weeks!

2009-08-06T13:16:00.000-07:00

Well, I am a little over 30 weeks now! I can't believe we only have 10 weeks left until we meet baby girl! We are SUPER close to choosing our favorite name so check back soon! I had an OB appointment today and everything is looking GREAT, we have an ultrasound tomorrow and we can't wait to see baby girl!

Here is what is happening at 30 weeks:

Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and she weighs almost 3 pounds (like a head of cabbage). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds her, but that volume will decrease as she gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. Her eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after she's born, she'll keep her eyes closed for a good part of the day. When she does open them, she'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means she can only make out objects a few inches from her face. (Normal adult vision is 20/20.)

Stay tuned for a 30 week picture!

Fun at Honey's!!

2009-07-31T12:10:00.000-07:00

We recently returned from an 8 day visit to Honey's house in Dallas! We had such a fun time and as always it is always so fun to be with Honey. My older brother, sister-in-law and nephew came down from Oklahoma too so it was really fun for the cousins to play together. Some of the things we did while in Dallas include:
*swimming
*playing catch and t-ball, Kailey LOVES her pink glove!
*rode on scooters
*went shopping A LOT!
* visited friends
*went out to eat
*completed my baby registries for my shower
*went to the movies
*saw a children's show
*grilled out
* took a cooking class (YUMMY FOOD)
*relaxed
*and laughed A LOT!

We are looking forward to Honey coming to visit us in a couple of weeks for some more fun!! Below are just a few of the pictures from our trip, notice how Kailey has on a princess dress in almost EVERY PICTURE! Can I just tell you, she LOVES LOVES LOVES to play dress-up ALL THE TIME!!!

Kailey LOVES to play t-ball and catch!

Uncle Tim, Timmy Ryan and Kailey

Cousins Enjoying breakfast together

SCOOTER TIME!

Timmy helping Kailey use her scooter

ready to conquer the roads!

silly girl!

TICKLES!!!

28 week belly picture

2009-07-30T11:54:00.000-07:00

Sorry it has taken me a while to load this...

28 weeks with baby girl 2

And this last picture is from when I was 28 weeks pregnant with Kailey:

29 WEEKS!

2009-07-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

How your baby's growing:Your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. Her muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and her head is growing bigger to make room for her developing brain. To meet her increasing nutritional demands, you'll need plenty of protein, vitamins C, folic acid, and iron. And because her bones are soaking up lots of calcium, be sure to drink your milk (or find another good source of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, or enriched orange juice). This trimester, about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in your baby's hardening skeleton each day.

I can't believe I am already in the 3rd trimester, time is flying by and in 11 weeks (or less) we will be meeting our beautiful little girl. We are busy getting her nursery all ready! Kailey LOVES to talk about her "little sissy" and is very protective of my tummy. She is quick to tell people that it is HER sissy, its pretty darn cute I must say! Kailey is really into helping me get things ready and really loves that every time sissy gets something new she does too!!

28 weeks!

2009-07-21T12:39:00.000-07:00

By this week, your baby weighs two and a quarter pounds and measures 14.8 inches from the top of her head to her heels. She can blink her eyes, which now sport lashes. With her eyesight developing, she may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. She's also developing billions of neurons in her brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.

Week 27

2009-07-15T18:40:00.000-07:00

Last week we had our check-up with Dr. LeBlanc, everything is looking great and baby is right on track. I also had my glucose screening and everything is just fine in that department! We also had our ultrasound with Dr. Rowe- he said baby girl is looking GREAT and is VERY LONG! I was 26w4d when he dad the ultrasound and he said that baby girls legs were measuring at 29w6d-- WOW, yes they are VERY long... Hmmm, I wonder where she gets that?!?! He said that she is growing just right and will most likely be long and lean:)

We go back in about 3 weeks for our next check-up!

This week, your baby weighs almost 2 pounds and is about 14 1/2 inches long with her legs extended. She's sleeping and waking at regular intervals, opening and closing her eyes, and perhaps even sucking her fingers. With more brain tissue developing, your baby's brain is very active now. While her lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with a lot of medical help — if she were to be born now. Chalk up any tiny rhythmic movements you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and they don't bother her, so just relax and enjoy the tickle.

Week 26

2009-07-07T14:41:00.000-07:00

How your baby's growing:

The network of nerves in your baby's ears is better developed and more sensitive than before. She may now be able to hear both your voice and your partner's as you chat with each other. She's inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of her lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when she's born and takes that first gulp of air. And she's continuing to put on baby fat. She now weighs about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches from head to heel.

Nursery Update:

The crib and dresser are IN! We will have them THIS weekend! The mattress should be delivered THIS week as well! The nursery is all painted, too! We are just waiting for the artwork and other sweet touches to arrive along with the rug and window treatment! How exciting!!

4th of July FUN!

2009-07-06T12:13:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the 4th of July we had over several friends with their kiddos! We enjoyed some yummy BBQ, hamburgers, hot dogs, pasta salad, beans, watermelon, pie, oreo balls and over course lemonade and carmel corn! We even had some fresh oysters, I didn't eat any but I heard they were quite delicious! The kids had fun playing outside and the Daddy's even turned the regular slide into a super-dooper WATERSLIDE, complete with a pool at the end! The kids had SO MUCH FUN and must have gone down that thing at least 50 times! We packed up the chairs and headed to Kemah for an awesome fireworks show, it was really great and the kids did fantastic! It was so fun to spend time with friends and celebrate our great country!

July 1, 2009

2009-07-06T12:01:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday our church had an AWESOME 4th of July celebration! It started with a yummy dinner from Chick-Fil-A followed by patriotic music and recognition of those who has served this great country. Our church, Sagemont, has a HUGE cross outside with water all around it. They did a special baptism at the celebration and baptised 60 people, WOW! How awesome, so many people loving Jesus!!! The fireworks started after that and boy were they beautiful! They were right behind the cross which made for some awesome pictures and a constant reminder of how awesome God is! It was a nice reminder that even though having our "independence" is an awesome thing being "dependent" on him is the most important!

Kailey LOVED the music and fireworks and kept saying "More Fireworks, Daddy" " I want more fireworks." She and Greg danced to the music and we all just enjoyed some family time. I am really glad that we found a church that values family events so much, I love the time I get with my wonderful family!!

Week 25

2009-06-30T13:10:00.000-07:00

Head to heels, your baby now measures about 13 1/2 inches. Her weight — a pound and a half — isn't much more than an average rutabaga, but she's beginning to exchange her long, lean look for some baby fat. As she does, her wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and she'll start to look more and more like a newborn. She's also growing more hair — and if you could see it, you'd now be able to discern its color and texture.

I can't believe we only have 15 weeks left, at the most!!! WOW!!

Bayou Wildlife

2009-06-29T12:06:00.001-07:00

Last week we went with some great friends to Bayou Wildlife Park. It was SUPER FUN!! THe animals are "free" in a huge wildlife reserve. We boarded a wagon type thing and made our way throughout the park. All of the animals came up to the wagon and we were able to feed them all! Some of them were a little aggressive when it came to the food and even managed to steal a few of our food buckets. We saw LOTS of anumals, some of our favorites were the giraffes, longhorns, deer, llamas, buffalos and kangaroos. Kailey LOVED petting the llamas and camels and one camel even looked like he was going to give her a HUGE kiss!

It was a really hot day, like 104 so we were pretty sweaty after our tour with the animals. We enjoyed a yummy lunch at McAllisters and then came home for a much needed nap and shower! We will certainly go back to visit the "aminals" but we will wait until it cools off some.

Little Tumbler

2009-06-29T11:56:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we went to a super fun birthday party at AcroFit, a local gymnastic place. The kids (and parents) got to play on EVERYTHING and then had pizza and cake! Kailey LOVED the trampoline and jumping into the foam pit. Daddy also had lots of fun playing right along with her! She was really worn out when we left and we all got a good nap, well, except Daddy because he was busy painting the office. Since she loved it so much we are looking into a toddler class they offer!

Stair Sleeper

2009-06-23T13:58:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we discovered what a drama queen Kailey can be. When we returned from running some errands Kailey said she wanted to go upstairs, I told her she needed to wait for me to go up with her. She proceeded to throw herself on the floor and then block the stairs from all of us. She laid on the top step kicking the wall and pouting. I just let her do her thing and several minutes later things got very quiet. I walked over to the steps and this is what I found...

Yep... Kailey was ASLEEP on the bottom step. I couldn't believe it. I was worried she would roll off onto the tile so I moved her to the bed and she slept for another 2 1/2 hours, I guess she was just tired...

Happy Daddy Day!

2009-06-23T13:43:00.001-07:00

We had a really fun weekend! Granny and Poppy came to visit us from Louisiana... On Friday we enjoyed a yummy dinner out, Saturday Greg and Poppy worked on the nursery ALL DAY LONG.. They painted and put up the chair rail and crown molding while Mommy went to buy all the furniture we had picked out. Granny and Kailey had fun organizing all of the toys that will go into the girls craft system from Pottery Barn Kids. Saturday night we enjoyed a yummy dinner thanks to Granny and then stayed up late playing. On Sunday (Father's Day) we started by sneaking out to Buckees to get Greg and Poppy a yummy breakfast, we headed to church and then came home. Kailey gave Greg his father's day gifts... The matching recliner for our media room, a new miter saw and some other fun goodies, his FAVORITE GIFT was the artwork Kailey made for him to hang in his office. Kailey also made some artwork for Poppy and he loved it! We enjoyed a day at home, Greg and Poppy worked on the nursery some more and helped Mommy get things organized, put in the attic and plan our next project. We had some yummy steaks, burgers and chicken grilled by daddy and enjoyed some yummy dessert made by Granny. It was really a great weekend and it was super helpful to have Granny and Poppy in town. I was able to get several closets cleaned out, I went through all of the baby clothes, organized toys and even had some ALONE time! All and All it was a great weekend! I am so incredibly blessed to have such an AMAZING Daddy for Kailey and Baby Girl 2, he is such an awesome man!

Stay tuned for pictures of the nursery...

Here are some pictures of the artwork Kailey made:

Week 24

2009-06-23T13:03:00.000-07:00

I can't believe we are already at 24 weeks, WOW--time is flying by! Here is what's going on this week...

Your baby's growing steadily, having gained about 4 ounces since last week. That puts her at just over a pound. Since she's almost a foot long (picture an ear of corn), she cuts a pretty lean figure at this point, but her body is filling out proportionally and she'll soon start to plump up. Her brain is also growing quickly now, and her taste buds are continuing to develop. Her lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" as well as cells that produce surfactant, a substance that will help her air sacs inflate once she hits the outside world. Her skin is still thin and translucent, but that will start to change soon.

Trip to Louisiana

2009-06-16T12:59:00.000-07:00

Dancing with Daddy

checking out the fountain and flowers with Granny

playing in Poppies truck

swinging

A couple of weeks ago we traveled to Greg's parents house for a visit and to go to Greg's cousins wedding. It was a quick weekend, but we had lots of fun at the wedding, playing outside, seeing family and friends and of course eating some yummy Louisiana food.

Aunt Becky

silly Uncle Ryan (pic taken by Kailey)

My Silly Monkeys,,,

2009-06-16T12:55:00.001-07:00

So, if anyone wonders where Kailey gets her silly side from I can tell you.....

HER DADDY!!!

Little Fish...

2009-06-16T12:41:00.001-07:00

Kailey loves to swim swim swim... while in Dallas we did lots of swimming. Honey's neighborhood has a zero-entry beach pool that is really cool!! We also used the good ole baby pool in the back yard...

American Girl

2009-06-16T12:33:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we traveled to Dallas to visit Honey, while we were there we did lots of shopping, eating out, swimming, playing outside and we went to the American Girl store! OMG--this store is simply AMAZING!!! If you have a little girl you MUST go here. It is two HUGE stories of dolls, doll clothes, etc. They even have a hair salon where your baby can get her hair done! Your little girl and her baby can even dress alike! It was AWESOME! They even have an American Girl Cafe upstairs where you can get yummy treats and of course your baby sits right up to the table with you. It was the PERFECT girls day and Kailey loved it!! Little girls are SO MUCH FUN!

Week 23

2009-06-16T12:24:00.000-07:00

Turn on the radio and sway to the music. With her sense of movement well developed by now, your baby can feel you dance. And now that she's more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound (about as much as a large mango), you may be able to see her squirm underneath your clothes. Blood vessels in her lungs are developing to prepare for breathing, and the sounds that your baby's increasingly keen ears pick up are preparing her for entry into the outside world. Loud noises that become familiar now — such as your dog barking or the roar of the vacuum cleaner — probably won't faze her when she hears them outside the womb.

Week 22

2009-06-09T12:30:00.001-07:00

At 11 inches (the length of a spaghetti squash) and almost 1 pound, your baby is starting to look like a miniature newborn. Her lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are becoming more distinct, and she's even developing tiny tooth buds beneath her gums. Her eyes have formed, but her irises (the colored part of the eye) still lack pigment. If you could see inside your womb, you'd be able to spot the fine hair (lanugo) that covers her body and the deep wrinkles on her skin, which she'll sport until she adds a padding of fat to fill them in. Inside her belly, her pancreas — essential for the production of some important hormones — is developing steadily.

Week 21

2009-06-03T13:23:00.000-07:00

Things are going along smoothly. I am finally feeling good and have been busy picking things out for the nursery. We haven't decided on a name yet, but stay tuned. I have been feeling baby girl move for a few weeks now and Greg started feeling her about 3 1/2 weeks ago. It is very cool! She is very active at night and likes to stay very low in my tummy.

Your baby now weighs about three-quarters of a pound and is approximately 10 1/2 inches long — the length of a large banana. You may soon feel like she's practicing martial arts as her initial fluttering movements turn into full-fledged kicks and nudges. You may also discover a pattern to her activity as you get to know her better. In other developments, your baby's eyebrows and lids are present now.

HALF WAY THERE!!!!!

2009-05-26T14:10:00.000-07:00

Well we are half way there!!! WOW! This pregnancy is going by SO MUCH FASTER than it did when I was pregnant with Kailey. I am really trying to enjoy every second I get with Kailey as I know my time will soon be split. It is hard to believe that there will soon be two little princesses in our house... Daddy better prepare himself!!

Going on this week:

Your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. She's about the size of a cantaloupe She's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom and about 10 inches from head to heel — the length of a banana. (For the first 20 weeks, when a baby's legs are curled up against his torso and hard to measure, measurements are taken from the top of his head to his bottom — the "crown to rump" measurement. After 20 weeks, she's measured from head to toe.) She's swallowing more these days, which is good practice for her digestive system. She's also producing meconium, a black, sticky by-product of digestion. This gooey substance will accumulate in her bowels, and you'll see it in his first soiled diaper (some babies pass meconium in the womb or during delivery).

Crazy Eights

2009-05-26T09:58:00.000-07:00

Crazy Eights

Crazy Eights! My friend, Erin, tagged me for this...so...here goes

Tag Rules...
1. Mention the person who tagged you.
2. Complete the list of 8's.
3. Tag 8 of your wonderful blog friends!

8 things I look forward to:
1. Having our second baby girl
2. decorating another nursery
3. seeing my Mom tomororw
4. going on several vacations this summer
5. TIGER Football!
6. Kailey starting MDO in September
7. The backyard finally being finished (I don't know if that will ever happen)
8. my Uncle Bill coming home from Iraq safely

8 things I did yesterday (Memorial Day):
1. went swimming
2. made some yummy burgers
3. thanked lots of soldiers:)
4. watched Greg fix the broken waterline outside
5. had some great friends over
6. went grocery shopping
7. Watched John and Kate plus 8
8. organized my maternity clothes

8 things I wish I could do:
1. Snap my fingers and have my house all organized
2. be skinny and still eat dessert!
3. see my friends who don't live here
4. win the lottery so Greg wouldn't have to work anymore
5. go on a vaction RIGHT NOW!
6. fly
7. live closer to my Mom (one day, one day)
8. see my fabulous brothers, sisters and nephew more often

8 shows I watch: (when Kailey isn't watching cartoons)
1. Lost
2. The Bachelorette
3. John and Kate Plus 8
4. The Hills
5. Law and Order SVU
6. The Office
7. Cheesy Movies on Lifetime
8. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse (I do have a 2 year olf)

Bloggers I tag:

Melanie
Charli
Kim W.
Ashley B.
Shannon
Cassie
Julie
Nicole

THANK YOU

2009-05-25T15:01:00.001-07:00

Memorial Day: A Day to Remember...

A very special THANK YOU to all of the brave men and women of all branches of the military who made the greatest sacrifice of all so that we can have the many freedoms that we enjoy each and every day. We are forever grateful and are forever in debt to you and your families. If doesn't feel like one day is enough, we will remember you always and will always remember that it is because of YOU that we have our FREEDOM.

On this day we also remember those currently serving and those who have served in the past. We are praying for your safe return and are grateful that you were brave enough to stand up and fight for our great country and people.

Thank You.

Susanna

Wife of 1LT Greg Blanchard

Strawberry Festival!

2009-05-21T11:26:00.001-07:00

Miss Strawberry about to head out to the Festival!This past weekend was the Pasadena Strawberry Festival. We headed out early and started our day of FUN! We really had a good time! Greg was one of the judges for the cook-off so he was lucky enough to try lots of different Gumbo's, Ribs and Fajitas, he saved some for me and boy was it YUMMY!! While he was judging Kailey and I met up with our friends Carrie and Luke. We walked around the carnival area, watched some mud volleyball, watched an alligator show, looked at all the different vendors, watched a family circus (I will post again about this), went to the petting zoo, and oh so much more. They had a children's village set up which was really nice as it was air conditioned!! After Greg was done he met up with us for some more fun, we played some games, won some prizes, and ate some yummy and not so figure friendly carnival food. We even had a piece of the WORLD'S LARGEST STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE it was AWESOME!!!! We really had a fun, family day and when we left the festival at 3:30 Kailey was OUT!

This is the World's Largest Strawberry Shortcake, the picture really doesn't do it justice. And boy did it smell and taste yummy!!!

I just HAD to get a funnel cake, it was yummy too!

Week 19... almost half way!

2009-05-19T07:21:00.001-07:00

Your baby's sensory development is exploding! Her brain is designating specialized areas for smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch. Some research suggests that she may be able to hear your voice now, so don't be shy about reading aloud, talking to her, or singing a happy tune if the mood strikes you.Your baby weighs about 8 1/2 ounces and measures 6 inches, head to bottom — about the size of a large mango. Her arms and legs are in the right proportions to each other and the rest of her body now. Her kidneys continue to make urine and the hair on her scalp is sprouting. A waxy protective coating called the vernix caseosa is forming on her skin to prevent it from pickling in the amniotic fluid

Friday Funday...

2009-05-18T15:17:00.001-07:00

On Friday we took our first trip to the Houston Zoo!! We had a fantastic time and ended up buying the annual pass since we loved it so much!!! We went with our friends Kendra and Jonah, enjoyed our picnic lunch, checked out the animals, rode the carousel and train and came home for a LONG nap!! We didn't get to see everything before nap time so we will be headed back to the zoo soon!

Then, Friday night Kendra, Jonathan and Jonah came over for a yummy dinner and lots of laughs. We really had fun hanging out with them and can't wait to do it again soon!

Chimes

2009-05-18T13:16:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite places to eat in Baton Rouge is The Chimes Restaurant, so of course last week I just had to eat there and see some friends!

Alaina, Auntie Kim (Kailey's Godmother), me, Rebecca and Reece

Auntie Amy, Auntie Melanie and me

Kailey watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse on the phone

Kailey and Reece are great buds!

The ladies...

Spray Park!!!

2009-05-18T13:09:00.000-07:00

Last week, while in Baton Rouge, Kailey and I met some of our good friends at Jambalaya Park, a local spraypark. Kailey LOVED it! She was running around like a wild woman!! She loved getting wet, running around and spending time with friends. It was a beautiful day to be outside and it was really wonderful to see some friends and their cute kiddos!

Week 18

2009-05-14T14:07:00.000-07:00

Head to rump, your baby is about 5 1/2 inches long and she weighs almost 78ounces. She's busy flexing her arms and legs — movements that you'll start noticing more and more in the weeks ahead. Her blood vessels are visible through her thin skin, and her ears are now in their final position, although they're still standing out from her head a bit. A protective covering of myelin is beginning to form around her nerves, a process that will continue for a year after she's born.

First French Braid

2009-05-06T13:36:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that Kailey's hair is long enough to french braid now?!?!? She LOVES for me to "do" her hair! She will run and grab a hair brush and tell me how she wants it styled! I asked her if I could try and braid it and she said "YES! Braid hair, Mommy," her hair is still VERY fine, so it slipped out pretty easily, I was just pumped that it is long enough to braid now!!! I can remember my mom braiding my hair when I was little and I loved it! Kailey ran right to Daddy and said "look Daddy, I look so pretty" she was RIGHT, she is just too darn cute! She is quite the little diva with her hairstyles and painted nails. Oh and did I mention she HAS to have her lipstick (chapstick) on before we go anywhere. She is SUCH a girl and I LOVE it!!!

Little girls are just SO MUCH FUN!!!!

Family Pizza Friday's!!

2009-05-05T12:15:00.000-07:00

When I was younger we would make homemade pizza most Friday nights, I really loved it so when I was pregnant with Kailey I started that tradition with our family. We love it!! While it doesn't happen every Friday, it does happen a lot!! Kailey loves to be the big helper with the cheese and other toppings. She usually ends up eating most of the toppings before they even make it on the pizzas. This past Friday she didn't want ANY help from us so she did the WHOLE thing all by herself, except the cooking part:)

Week 17

2009-05-05T11:50:00.000-07:00

We go back to the dcotor next week for our "big" ultrasound where they check all of the anatomy of the baby...

How your baby's growing:Your baby's skelton is changing from soft cartilage to bone, and the umbilical cord — her lifeline to the placenta — is growing stronger and thicker. Your baby weighs 5 ounces now (a little more than an onion), and she's around 5 inches long from head to bottom. She can move her joints, and her sweat glands are starting to develop.

Week 16

2009-04-28T09:23:00.000-07:00

How your baby's growing:

Get ready for a growth spurt. In the next few weeks, your baby will double his weight and add inches to his length. Right now, she's about the size of an avacado: 4 1/2 inches long (head to rump) and 3 1/2 ounces. Her legs are much more developed, her head is more erect than it has been, and her eyes have moved closer to the front of his head. Her ears are close to their final position, too. The patterning of her scalp has begun, though her locks aren't recognizable yet. She's even started growing toenails. And there's a lot happening inside as well. For example, her heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, and this amount will continue to increase as your baby continues to develop.

Anniversary--looking back

2009-04-23T11:50:00.000-07:00

Greg and I recently celebrated year 5 year wedding anniversary. Time has really flown by. Of course being the sentimental person I am I had to pull out ALL the pictures, videos, cards etc and just think back on all of our special times together.

Greg and I were married on April 2, 2004 in Baton Rouge, LA at Istrouma Baptist Church. Our original wedding date was supposed to be that summer, but to our surprise Greg got orders to head to Iraq for 18 months. We decided to move our wedding up a bit and get married before he left. We had two weeks. We called the church and then had the next Friday open in the chapel so we took it, my family flew in and Greg's family drove up. We also had several of our closest friends that were able to come such short notice. My mom set up a nice dinner at Juban's for the reception dinner. My wedding gown had not come in so my Mom and I found a gorgeous white suit I could wear instead, Greg wore his dress greens. There was no time for musicians, registries, and all the other stuff that goes in to a wedding. There were no photographers or videographers available so we just asked family and friends to preserve our memories for us! All that mattered was that we were in love, Greg was about to leave and we wanted to be joined as husband and wife. The simplicity of it all was perfect, the true meaning of marriage was witnessed that day without all the fluff. Boy, this brings me to tears even thinking about it all. The ceremony was PERFECT! We were so in love and all I really remember was looking at Greg and realizing how lucky I was to be marrying such an amazing man. But, in the back of mind I was so terrified that he may not come home from Iraq. I definitely didn't make it down the aisle without tears, and lots of them. Our church pastor, Brother Stuart married us and he made it very special (he later did our renewal ceremony and is now at the church we attend in Houston).

Greg and I at the LSU War Memorial, this is where he proposed.

We were able to go on a honeymoon, we went on a cruise to Jamaica, Cayman Islands and Mexico. It was bitter-sweet. It was WONDERFUL to be husband and wife, but it was so sad knowing that Greg would be leaving me for 18 months and neither of us knew what the future held. It was all up to God. We are both SO thankful for wonderful friends and family who helped us through the tough times of his deployment.

(Greg is on the far left)

The day after Greg got in country (Iraq) my wedding dress came in, I just put the box in the closet and knew I would wear that beautiful gown one day. Greg and I decided to have a renewal ceremony when he returned so we could have the wedding that every little girl dreams of. I had plenty of time to plan and that is one way I passed the time. After he safety retuned in October of 2005 we continued planning our renewal ceremony. Our ceremony was on April 1, 2006 almost 2 years after our wedding ceremony. We were lucky enough to have everything we didn't have the first time: ALL of our family, new friends, old friends, I wore my wedding gown, Greg wore his dress blues, bridesmaids, groomsmen, a rehearsal dinner, my FAVORITE photographer from Houston, a videographer, showers, a HUGE cake, a real reception, and most importantly TIME together! It was wonderful, it was like a dream and I loved every second! Brother Stuart did our ceremony and he helped us to add some special touches to our ceremony, we used 3 colored ribbons to represent God, Greg and I and how you need all three for a healthy marriage, a unity candle, two soloists we had a family prayer at the end, and of course we had the Sabre Arches which were amazing and looked really great in our pictures!! It was like a fairytale. We went on a two week honeymoon and enjoyed every second together. We really enjoyed this honeymoon because we knew that Greg was home and we didn't have to rush our time together. We went on a week long cruise to St. Thomas, St. Marteen, and San Juan and then spent a week in Disney World, it was wonderful (and productive, Kailey was born 9 months later:))

one of my wedding showers

As I look back I think about just how hard it was when Greg was deployed. It really puts things in perspective. I guess that is why I don't think it is a big deal if he has to work a little late or if he has to travel a week or two for work. At least he comes home to me everynight and when he is away I am not worried if his camp is going to be attacked by insurgents. I really, really love my husband and I Thank God EVERY SINGLE DAY that he put Greg in my life. I never thought I would be an army wife, but I really think Greg's time away has helped us to keep in perspective what is really important and what is trivial.
Rehearsal dinner at Ralph and Kacoos

Me, Raine and Carolyn (SIL's)

Greg and the bridesmaids

one of my bridal pics

me and the groomsmen

My Brothers and Me!

SMOOCH!!!

For our 5 year anniversary we took a weekend trip, spent lots of alone time together and just enjoyed one anothers company. It was just nice to have some time one on one while my Mom watched Kailey. We are planning a big trip for after B2 arrives. I can't wait to see what the future holds, I know whatever it is, it will be great as long as Greg is by my side.

I love you Honey!!!

Easter Ham

2009-04-23T11:43:00.000-07:00

On Easter Sunday after we went to church to celebrate the resurrection (you know, the ENTIRE reason for Easter) we came home and cooked a YUMMY Ham!! It was 9lbs and boy was it good! This was my first time to cook a ham so I was pretty excited (and nervous too). Greg helped put the pinapple and cherries on top and then I did the Honey Spice glaze. We had my super secret family pasta salad, green bean casserole, rolls and a pie for dessert. We really enjoyed our yummy dinner and even had leftovers for ham sandwiches throughout the week!!

The Eatser Bunny Came!!!

2009-04-23T11:36:00.000-07:00

While we were sleeping the Easter Bunny came and brought Kailey some really great treats! The first thing Kailey said when she woke up was "Did Easter Bunny Come??" We said yes and then let her walk out in the living room, she ran to her baskets jumped up and down and started yelling "Easter Bunny Came" "Bunny brings presents and candy" it was hilarious! She started looking through the baskets which took forever because she wanted to play with everything and eat ALL the candy! The EB really brought her some cool things and he even managed to remember Mommy and Daddy!!

The Hunt...

2009-04-22T15:15:00.000-07:00

In addition to having our own family egg hunt we went to several other Easter Egg hunts, by the time we had ours she was a PRO! She could throw those eggs in her basket faster than any adult I have seen :) Also, notice the tutu... She would not leave the house without it AND her bunny purse, what a girlie girl!

She KNEW there were goodies in the eggs so she would load them up as quick as possible...

And what is Easter without a TUTU???

Coloring Eggs

2009-04-22T15:08:00.000-07:00

We had a WONDERFUL Easter!! Here is the first in a series of posts... Kailey, Greg and I really enjoyed coloring eggs for the Easter Bunny to hide. (Actually, he hid plastic eggs for the sake of breakage, but we still colored some too). Kailey LOVED dipping the eggs and using the magic crayon to color all over them. She kept re-dipping the eggs we had already colored so we got some crazy colors. We made quite the mess but had a great time doing so! I can't wait to see what next year is like with TWO kids... Any tips???

Kailey LOVES this part!

Daddy watching Kailey study the egg

using the magic crayon

Mommy and Kailey

Two Aunties Come to Visit

2009-04-22T14:38:00.000-07:00

Two of my great girlfriends from Baton Rouge came to visit us and boy did we have a fun time! While it wasn't the same yearly trip without Melanie we managed to have fun anyway! Kailey absolutly ADORES her Auntie Kim and Auntie Amy, she just loves them!!

We started their fun trip with a shopping excursion to IKEA of course and then a yummy lunch at Red Robin. Later that day we went to Kemah for a yummy dinner at Saltgrass and then a walk around the rides and shops. The next day we went to Moody Gardens in Galveston and visited the fish at the Aquarium, Kailey really loved the penguins! We went to the Rainforest Cafe for lunch and Auntie Amy ordered a HUGE Volcano dessert! Later that evening we all went to watch Kailey dance! She had quite the fan club, I think the other parents thought we were nuts as we weer 1. all pressed up against the viewing glass, 2. all taking pictures and 3. all talking about how cute Kailey is. Yes, I am sure Greg was a little embarrassed as well! We went to Fudruckers for dinner and had a grand time singing to the old songs and eating some delicious hamburgers. We finished off the night by watching Twilight in the media room, it was awesome! I love that movie!! We really enjoyed our time with Amy and Kim and can't wait for more fun SOON:) They are great friends and we just love them!! I can honestly say I don't think I have laughed as hard as I did when they were here in a long time!

Below are some pics of our fun together!

Dancing Queens

little dancer

Kailey walking the beach

Dessert!

In The Cage!

getting close to the eel

great friend

behind bars already...

Way Late St. Patrick's Day...

2009-04-22T14:29:00.000-07:00

So, while loading pictures from the last two months onto the computer I realized just how many pictures I haven't shared. I guess we have just been too busy having fun to update! Here are some cute pics of Princess Kailey on St. Patrick's Day!

Week 15!

2009-04-22T13:44:00.000-07:00

Your growing baby now measures about 4 inches long, crown to rump, and weighs in at about 2 1/2 ounces (about the size of an orange). She's busy moving amniotic fluid through her nose and upper respiratory tract, which helps the primitive air sacs in her lungs begin to develop. Her legs are growing longer than her arms now, and she can move all of her joints and limbs. Although her eyelids are still fused shut, she can sense light. If you shine a flashlight at your tummy, for instance, she's likely to move away from the beam. There's not much for your baby to taste at this point, but she is forming taste buds.

Only 25 weeks to go!!!

New Favorite...

2009-04-17T15:06:00.000-07:00

My Mom bought Kailey the Hi Ho Cherry-O game a couple of weeks ago and let me just tell you that she LOVES it!! She plays EVERY SINGLE DAY and is pretty darn good at it!! Of course we would never let our 2 year old princess lose, but she is actually really good. She does a great job counting the cherries and will even count yours for you!! She calls the game "Hi Cherry-O" it is pretty cute. She is learning to take turns and doesn't like it when you take too long to spin the wheel.
It is so fun to watch Kailey learn new things and take such an interest in playing games. She is growing up fast and we are just trying to soak up every second with her!! I can already picture Kailey teaching her little sister how to play games, too!

Doctor Visit...

2009-04-16T14:22:00.000-07:00

Today I had my 14 week OB visit. Everything went really well. Kailey joined me for the visit and she was on her best behavior. All of the nurses loved her and gave her stickers and candy! Kailey loved hearing B2's heartbeat and even asked "Ms. Amy" to listen to her baby. The dr played along and put the doppler on Kailey's baby doll. Kailey LOVED it! I just LOVE hearing the beautiful sound of a babies heartbeat, it just remindes me of what a miracle life is.

We are officially in the 2nd trimester and I am hoping I start to feel better soon!! I am still pretty nauseated, but I have hope it will get better.

I go back in 4 weeks for another check-up and the anatomy scan.

Come back soon for an Easter update and some pictures from Dallas and from Auntie Kim and Auntie Amy came to visit!!!

Week 14

2009-04-16T14:19:00.000-07:00

How your baby's growing:

This week's big developments: Your baby can now squint, frown, grimace, pee, and possibly suck his thumb! Thanks to brain impulses, his facial muscles are getting a workout as his tiny features form one expression after another. His kidneys are producing urine, which he releases into the amniotic fluid around him — a process he'll keep up until birth. He can grasp, too, and if you're having an ultrasound now, you may even catch him sucking his thumb.In other news: Your baby's stretching out. From head to bottom, he measures 3 1/2 inches — about the size of a lemon — and he weighs 1 1/2 ounces. His body's growing faster than his head, which now sits upon a more distinct neck. By the end of this week, his arms will have grown to a length that's in proportion to the rest of his body. (His legs still have some lengthening to do.) He's starting to develop an ultra-fine, downy covering of hair, called lanugo, all over his body. Your baby's liver starts making bile this week — a sign that it's doing its job right — and his spleen starts helping in the production of red blood cells. Though you can't feel his tiny punches and kicks yet, your little pugilist's hands and feet (which now measure about 1/2 inch long) are more flexible and active.

Busy, Busy, Busy...

2009-04-08T14:40:00.001-07:00

These past few weeks have been BUSY! Greg's family came in for a few days a couple of weeks ago, Greg and I celebrated our 5th anniversary on April 2nd. We spent our aniversary with a weekend get-away sans Kailey! Greg planned it ALL and it was a total surprise to me! My mom even flew down to watch Kailey!! I will share more later.
This week Kailey and I are in Dallas spending some much needed "down time" with my Mom!

After Easter two of my girlfriends are coming in from Louisiana and I CAN'T WAIT to see them! Poor Greg, will be the olnly guy in the house!

I promise to update soon! We have lots of fun pictures and updates to share!!

Stay Tuned!

Week 13

2009-04-08T14:38:00.001-07:00

As I enter my last week of the first trimester this is how B2 is growing...

Fingerprints have formed on your baby's tiny fingertips, her veins and organs are clearly visible through her still-thin skin, and her body is starting to catch up with her head — which makes up just a third of her body size now. If you're having a girl, she now has more than 2 million eggs in her ovaries. Your baby is almost 3 inches long, the size of a peach, and weighs nearly an ounce.

Week 12

2009-03-31T14:45:00.000-07:00

Well, we went to the doctor yesterday for our 12 week ultrasound, everything is looking great and B2 was right on track. We got to see/hear the heartbeat again and B2 was sucking on his/her fingers. It was so cool! We got lots of pictures and a DVD so that was cool. We also found out that B2 is a __________________!!!!! I can't tell you boy/girl yet because we want to tell our family first. Now, this isn't 100% of course, but two different people looked at the u/s and said the same thing, we were told it is around 85%at this point. Stay tuned for the news!!!!!!

This weeks updates:

The most dramatic development this week: Reflexes. Your baby's fingers will soon begin to open and close, his toes will curl, his eye muscles will clench, and his mouth will make sucking movements. In fact, if you prod your abdomen, your baby will squirm in response, although you won't be able to feel it. His intestines, which have grown so fast that they protrude into the umbilical cord, will start to move into his abdominal cavity about now, and his kidneys will begin excreting urine into his bladder. From crown to rump, your baby-to-be is just over two inches long (about the size of a plum) and weighs half an ounce.

Week 11

2009-03-24T08:39:00.000-07:00

We went to the doctor last week and everything was right on track. B2 was moving so much so that they had a hard time getting an accurate measurement, but with a little time they got it! We also saw B2's little heartbeat just beating away. SO BEAUTIFUL!!!

Your baby, just over 1 1/2 inches long and about the size of a lime, is now almost fully formed. Her hands will soon open and close into fists, tiny tooth buds are beginning to appear under her gums, and some of her bones are beginning to harden.She's already busy kicking and stretching, and her tiny movements are so effortless they look like water ballet. These movements will become more frequent as her body grows and becomes more developed and functional. You won't feel your baby's acrobatics for another month or two — nor will you notice the hiccupping that may be happening now that her diaphragm is forming.

Week 10

2009-03-17T11:51:00.000-07:00

Though he's only the size of a prune — a little over an inch or so long, crown to bottom — and weighs less than a quarter of an ounce, your baby has now completed the most critical portion of his development. This is the beginning of the so-called fetal period, a time when the tissues and organs in his body rapidly grow and mature.He's swallowing fluid and kicking up a storm. Vital organs — including his kidneys, intestines, brain, and liver (now making red blood cells in place of the disappearing yolk sac) — are in place and starting to function, though they'll continue to develop throughout your pregnancy.If you could take a look inside your womb, you'd spot minute details, like tiny nails forming on fingers and toes (no more webbing) and peach-fuzz hair beginning to grow on tender skin.

In other developments: Your baby's limbs can bend now. His hands are flexed at the wrist and meet over his heart, and his feet may be long enough to meet in front of his body. The outline of his spine is clearly visible through translucent skin, and spinal nerves are beginning to stretch out from his spinal cord. Your baby's forehead temporarily bulges with his developing brain and sits very high on his head, which measures half the length of his body. From crown to rump, he's about 1 1/4 inches long. In the coming weeks, your baby will again double in size — to nearly 3 inches.

Honey to the Rescue!!!

2009-03-16T11:40:00.000-07:00

Last week my wonderful Mom and nephew came down for a visit and to help me around the house with some things. As you know I have been really sick with this pregnancy so they were coming to my "rescue." Some of the time they were here I felt okay so we were able to do some fun things and some of the time I felt horrible so they helped me with Kailey, laundry and some other things around the house.

While they were here we visited Space Center Houston (NASA), it was awesome and the kids had a great time! I didn't know what to expect, but it was really cool! We also went to the Incredible Pizza Company for dinner one night, to the downtown aquarium for lunch and to see the fish (and white tigers) one day, and a couple of days we just hung around the house and relaxed. Well, I relaxed and Mom and Timmy worked around the house. We also got some GREAT pics of the kids together and with their "Honey."

We really enjoyed having them here and were very sad to see them go. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful family and I thank God every day for blessing me with them!

Stay tuned for more pics...

The Silly Pair...

2009-03-11T14:31:00.000-07:00

While organizing pictures today I found this marvelous picture of Greg and I from 2006 when we were in Disney World. I was newly pregnant with Kailey (and didn't know it yet), Greg had recently gotten home from Iraq and we had just spent a week on a cruise. We were pretty silly I must say. That was such a fun time, 2 weeks of vacation to just be with each other and be silly. I loved every single second of it!!! Let's just hope that we never really look this crazy!

Week 9

2009-03-10T14:10:00.000-07:00

What's going on with B2 this week????

How your baby's growing:

Your new resident is nearly an inch long — about the size of an olive (see pic below) — and weighs just a fraction of an ounce. He/She's starting to look more and more human. His/Her essential body parts are accounted for, though they'll go through plenty of fine-tuning in the coming months. Other changes abound: Your baby's heart finishes dividing into four chambers, and the valves start to form — as do her tiny teeth. The embryonic "tail" is completely gone. Your baby's organs, muscles, and nerves are kicking into gear. The external sex organs are there but won't be distinguishable as male or female for another few weeks. His/Her eyes are fully formed, but his/her eyelids are fused shut and won't open until 27 weeks. He/She has tiny earlobes, and his/her mouth, nose, and nostrils are more distinct. The placenta is developed enough now to take over most of the critical job of producing hormones. Now that your baby's basic physiology is in place, she's poised for rapid weight gain.

Mission Organization Part 1

2009-03-09T14:20:00.000-07:00

We had some work done in our pantry and I thought that would be a great time to clean it out and get it organized. It was in horrible shape and everything was all over the place. I am much happier with the finished product!!!

Before:

After:

Now what else can I organize... (when I am not throwing up???)

Our Exciting News!!!!

2009-03-02T07:54:00.000-08:00

I AM PREGNANT!!

I'M PREGNANT!!! Kailey is going to be a big sister!! Yay- we are really excited! My due date is October 13th so I am almost 8 weeks. I have been sick pretty much from morning to night and even sometimes in the middle of the night. I have been trying to nap when Kailey naps and Greg has been awesome with helping me around the house. We had our first ultrasound 2 weeks ago and were able to see his/her little heart just beating away. We will find out if B2 is a boy or a girl in about 4 weeks! Any guesses????

One Year Ago...

2009-02-27T13:57:00.000-08:00

It was one year ago today that we moved into our new house in League City, Texas. I can still remember how excited we were to go and sign our closing papers. Kailey was just over a year old and she joined us for the fun adventure. We enjoyed visiting our house as it was being built every day and some days we went over more than once. We loved it before it wsa even ours! We have had fun this year making it a "home" with lots of projects. SOME of our projects include: puting up chair rails in Kailey's room and the game room, installing pendant lights, building a dog run. building a house for the dogs that even has shingles like our roof, painting several rooms, hanging blinds, finishing the media room to include two rock columns, sconce lighting, a step up for theater-like seating, a built in screen, building frames around the bathroom mirrors, and the list goes on... we have been BUSY!

Some of our plans for this year include having wood floors insalled upstairs and in the downstairs bedroom, dining room and office, building a cover indoor/outdoor living space off of our patio, painting the rest of the interior different colors, landscaping the backyard, and the list goes on... We are really having fun!!

Valentine's

2009-02-16T12:31:00.000-08:00

We had a fun Valentine's 2009!! Our weekend went something like this... Friday: made homemade Valentine's cookies, Granny and Poppy arrrive, play outside, go to Incredible Pizza for dinner--Kailey LOVES this place, it is like CEC but BETTER! Saturday: Wake up and have a belated Christmas with Greg's parents, eat a HUGE breakfast, open Valentine's presents, Mommy and Daddy leave for the day and Kailey stays home to have fun with Granny and Poppy. Mommy and Daddy did LOTS of shopping, had a yummy lunch out and then went to a fun, secret place!! Saturday night we enjoyed BBQ as a family from our favorite place. Sunday: Granny and Poppy leave, go to church and Sunday School, come home, eat lunch and play guitar hero all afternoon! Greg and I are planning our "real" Valentine's dinner out for during the week when it is less crowded. Kailey was certainly our "Valentine."

gifts from Honey

homemade cookies!

We hope all of you had a wonderful Valentine's day with your special people.

HUGS,

The Blanchards

Visiting Great Friends

2009-02-16T12:21:00.000-08:00

Kailey and Riley

Wild Rides with Kim

Melanie and Me

Diaper Cake

Melanie's Awesome Cake

Kailey and Reece

Auntie Amy and Kailey

Playing at the Park

Several weekends ago we made a trip to Baton Rouge to visit some friends and to help with Melanie's Baby Shower. We had a fantastic time! We enjoyed visiting with our friends, Kailey LOVED seeing her friends and of course we enjoyed eating out, shopping and spending time together. We stayed with Amy and Trae and their dog Riley. Kailey was OBSESSED with Riley, by the end of our trip she was hugging him and trying to share her toys with him. Amy and Trae are the most wonderful hosts and we always enjoy spending time at their house. Melanie's shower went really well. Since Melanie loves the beach we did a beach themed baby shower and everything turned out really cute! We are so blessed to have such amazing friends and we cherish the time we get to spend with them.

Happy Birthday Honey!

2009-02-16T11:13:00.000-08:00

"Happy Day Daddy" as Kailey would say!

Today 2/16 is Greg's birthday, Happy Birthday Honey!!! 32 years ago today he blessed this world with his presence! He has done more in the past 32 years than most people do in their entire lifetime, I am so very proud of the man he is. I feel so blessed to have such an amazing husband and partner in life. Kailey is so blessed to have the worlds best Daddy!

Happy Birthday Greg, we love you!

Happy Birthday Timmy!!

2009-02-06T08:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday (2/5) was my nephew's 9th birthday! I can't believe he is already NINE! Wow- how time flies!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TIMMY RYAN!!!

Football Frenzy...

2009-02-03T06:14:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, for the SuperBowl we had about 25 adults and 12 kids over to party! We had lots of yummy food and really enjoyed visiting with one another and watching the game. We even had a trivia game with prizes! We all enjoyed the 3D show/ads and everyone looked silly in their 3D glasses!! Everyone seemed to have a good time and were already asking when the next "Blanchard Party" will be!

TuTu Fun!

2009-02-03T06:11:00.001-08:00

Two nights ago Kailey decided that she wanted to give us a little fashion show. She pulled out ALL of her tutu's, about 11 of them and proceeded to WOW us with her fashion show! She LOVES her tutu's! We have had fun making them and one of them my great friend Jessica made for her. I seriously think Kailey has one in every color! I have been making them to give as gifts and they have been a HIT!

Korkers

2009-02-02T12:46:00.000-08:00

I have been making bows for about a year now. I make all different types of bows and I love to try new ones, too! I saw some really cute "korker" bows at a boutique near our house and decided to try my hand at making one. I made one, then two, then FIFTY! They turned out so cute!! I have already sold ALL 50 of the bows I made and I have been working like crazy to make more! One of the local shops here has agreed to sell them in their store for me so that is pretty exciting! I make them in all different colors and even take special orders!
Take a look!! I think they turned out good!

First Haircut!

2009-02-02T12:37:00.000-08:00

Kailey had her FIRST haircut this past weekend and did great! We went to this kids place near our house where the kids get to sit in a fire truck and they can watch a movie of their choice. Kailey wanted to watch ELMO, so the nice lady put it on for her and gave her a lollipop. Kailey sat perfectly still the entire time and was such a good girl! Other kids were freaking out and crying, but not Kailey, I think she liked the pampering! She also got a little certificate for her first haircut, a picture with Mommy and Daddy and of course some of her hair! Here are some pictures of our first haircut.

Two silly monkeys...

2009-01-29T15:47:00.000-08:00

Everyday Kailey wants to play outside... I love it because we all get some fresh air and we ALL have fun on her playground. Sometimes we have picnics outside, sometimes we play house in the playhouse and sometimes we just play. Last night I came home and found these two silly monkey's playing on the swings.
Kailey was giggling with glee as Daddy taught her a new way to swing. Of course, I worry about her doing a face plant, but she did okay and it was all worth it when I heard her laughing so much! Kailey is VERY much a Daddy's girl now and I am so blessed to have such a wonderful daughter and to have Greg, who is an AWESOME Daddy!

And this my friends, is the money shot!

Tiny Dancer

2009-01-28T11:39:00.000-08:00

Last night was Kailey's first "official" dance class. It was amazing. She had gone to try the class and loved it, so we got all registered and officially started yesterday. She is in a class for 2-3 year olds. The class is broken into three parts: tumbling, ballet and tap. She was SO READY to get on her tights and leotard. She also has the cutest ballet slippers and tap shoes. They are so little! We got all ready and I asked her where we were going and she replied with "going to dance, Mommy." There are 5 little girls in the class and two teachers. The teachers are very sweet and are actual ballerinas so that makes it extra special. Kailey did fantastic--she did exactly what they asked and smiled the WHOLE TIME! It was such a proud moment, as a parent to see your child doing something so well and listening to directions. I watched everything through the viewing window with the other parents. She especially liked the tap dancing! She wanted to wear her tap shoes home and even showed us her moves when we got home. I thought for sure she would want to sleep in her tap shoes, but she let me take them off but asked for them first thing this morning. She will go to dance once a week and there is even a recital after they have been in class for 6 months.

This may sound silly, but I have dreamed of Kailey's first dance class pretty much since the minute I found out I was having a girl. I remember when I was in dance and I loved it, I knew that I wanted a little girl that liked to do the "girly" things, like dance!! Last night was such a special time. Girls are just so much fun!!

(I wish the pictures would have turned out better, but I was taking them through a double sided mirror.)

Baby Love

2009-01-28T11:12:00.001-08:00

Our good friend Crystal came over to introduce us to their new baby, Preston. let me tell you, Kailey was LOVING it! Crystal told Kailey she could hold Preston and Kailey was really excited. Perston is ADORABLE, and so sweet. Crystal is a wonderful Mommy, too!! Kailey held Preston for most of the time and even fed him his bottle. She was a PRO! I think she liked having a real baby to nuture much more than her baby dolls. Even after they left she kept saying "hold baby, mommy" she really loved him being here! She was so sweet, gentle and kind. One day, a long time from now, when she is married, she will be a wonderful Mommy!

Future Miss America???

2009-01-28T06:13:00.000-08:00

Last weekend the Miss America pageant was on TV. I thought I would try to watch it as I have always been a fan of pageants. I love to see the beautiful evening gowns and guess on who is going to win! I am convinced that Kailey will be the future Miss America or Miss USA, if you would have been here to see her in action you would think so too!

This year, Kailey was SO INTO IT! It was really cute! During the opening number Kailey danced around the game room, we thought this was cute... Then came the really funny stuff... During the swimsuit competition she saw the girls with their hands on their hips so she walked right up to the TV, put her hands on her hips and began parading around the room. She would even stop to pose. Greg is in trouble!!! Kailey is SOOOOO girly, and I LOVE IT! During the evening gown competition Kailey wanted a "dress" so we put one on and boy did she steal the stage! Those contestants have nothing on her!

She watched the entire pageant and even clapped for the winner. Miss USA is in February so I am sure we will be watching that too!

It was such a fun night! I am SO BLESSED!

More Party Pics

2009-01-23T13:13:00.000-08:00

More Birthday Fun!!!

Kailey's Candy Shoppe (2nd Birthday Party)

2009-01-23T11:52:00.001-08:00

Kailey's 2nd Birthday party was a HUGE success!!!

On Saturday, January 10th Kailey had 34 families (97 people not counting Mommy and Daddy) over to celebrate her 2nd birthday!!! Yes, i know 97 people was A LOT of people, we just have such amazing friends here!!! Thankfully, people could mingle both inside and outside!! As the guests arrived they were greeted with larger than life lollipops in the front yard, then there was a sign that said "Kailey's Candy Shoppe." Once guests entered the "Candy Shoppe" they were flooded with sweetness! To the left was a "Gun Drop" tree where the kids could take a gum drop filled with crayons to take home. There was also a "Lollipop Tree" where the kids (and adults) could pick lollipops, the two people that got the black sticks won a Candy Land game (Yay for Ethan and Julian)!! We had an M&M guess and the closest guess took home a jar full of M&M's, there were 813 in the jar--yes, I had to count every single one of them!! My mom and I wore aprons that said "Kailey's Candy Shoppe" as a special touch and the house was decorated with LOTS and LOTS of candy, marshmallows, HUGE candies, balloons, lollipops, etc. You really felt like you were entering a candy shop, which was the point! And we had a CD of all "sweet songs" playing in the background.

The kids played both inside and outside while also enjoying little subs, chicken fingers, creme puffs, chips, dips, fruits, veggies, cookies, the oh so popular chocolate fountain and of course CANDY!! Outside we had lots of toys, Kailey's new playground and bounce houses!

About midway through we all headed outside to have a "Lollipop Walk" similar to a cake walk, but instead of walking around in a circle everyone stood in a circle, passed a giant lollipop around and when the music stopped the person holding the lollipop won a giant cupcake! This was really fun and both winners were well deserving!!! After the Lollipop Walk we had a "Candy Race" all the kids lined up on the wall and raced to the giant bag of candy!!! The winner got to take the candy home (Yay for Raymond)!!

We headed inside and got everything ready for cake and ice cream! Everyone sang to precious Kailey and she sang along too! She blew out her candles and then everyone dug in to the super yummy cake!! We opened gifts and the kids continued to play! Kailey received SO MANY gifts, it was kind of humorous, she kind of lost interest after she opened up about 5 presents, so Mommy opened the rest and stored them away for days that we need a little pick-me-up!! Thank You Everyone for such awesome gifts, but more importantly, for sharing your time with our sweet daughter!

As the night wound down and people started to depart they found a HUGE candy bar and take out boxes to pack up their goodies! There was everything from Snickers to Twizzlers, to Pixie Sticks, Skittles, gum, every type of candy bar and just about anything you could think of! It was a HUGE HIT! By the looks of it, the kids and adults had fun packing up their candy!!

Mommy, Daddy, Honey and Kailey were really worn out after the fun party! Holly (babysitter extraordinaire) was able to be at the party to help run things so that was a huge help! I don't know what I would have done with her and Honey's help!!

Now, what to do for Kailey's 3rd Birthday????

Happy Birthday Raine!!!

2009-01-20T13:11:00.001-08:00

To my beautiful sister (in-law) HAPPY BIRTHDAY. WE LOVE YOU!

Playgroup Birthday

2009-01-20T13:05:00.001-08:00

One of the playgroups I am in does a monthly birthday celebration at a local place called Monkey N' Around. It is an indoor play center with lots of toys, slides, tunnels, etc. Every month the birthday kids have a celebration there and everyone comes to join in the fun. The Moms bring snacks, the kids play and of course the birthday cuties celebrate and everyone sings HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KAILEY!

Birthday Cuties!

Kailey's actual birthday...

2009-01-20T12:57:00.000-08:00

I am WAY behind on updating this... Kailey's birthday was January 3rd. She turned TWO! Well, we didn't have her birthday party with friends until the 10th, but on her actual birthday we asked her what she wanted to do and she said "CHUCK E CHEESE" over and over until we said we would take her there. CEC is her favorite place to go, she loves the pizza and she is really good at some of the games. Here are some pictures from our time there...

I can't believe my baby is two!

Daniel

2009-01-16T14:08:00.000-08:00

This week my Monday night group finished our Beth Moore study. We were studying Daniel. It was EXCELLENT! I had never studied Daniel before so I was especially interested. It was a 12 week study and was broken into two 6 week sessions. The first 6 weeks was mostly about Daniel's life and how he faced similar pressures and temptations as we face in today's world. We learned by Daniel's modeling how to keep integrity in today's crazy world. The second 6 weeks was my favorite as it was about the prophecies from the time of Daniel through the second coming of Christ. It was thrilling and so rewarding. I love to read God's word and I really love when I grasp an understanding of it all.

Below is a brief blurb of the study:

Beth Moore's study, Daniel: Lives of Integrity, Words of Prophecy shows how individuals can live with integrity in today's self-absorbed society. Join Beth in a faith-building study of prophecy and learn how to shine for Christ in our modern culture. Just as the prophet Daniel faced unbelievable pressures—to compromise his faith, to live in a hostile culture, and to confront temptations and threats—today's believers face many of the same trials.

Now that we have completed this study we are deciding on which one to do next, I will keep you posted!

Just Hanging Around...

2009-01-16T11:53:00.000-08:00

Just hanging around...

Greg and Kailey are quite the silly pair. Kailey knows that when she hears Daddy's truck that the silliness is about to begin. I LOVE it when Greg gets home because Kailey gets SOOOO excited to see him! She starts with the air kisses the second she hears his truck, she runs to the door, screams with excitment and this is all before he even walks in. Once he is inside she grabs his legs and squeals with glee. Greg usually needs a few minutes to decompress after work and then the silly games begin. They start the tickle game, hide and seek, they run races, play with the dogs, and the latest favorite is the upside down hanging game you can see pictured above. KAILEY LOVES IT! She giggles like crazy when she is "hanging" upside down and then wants "more, more, more" when she is right side up. It is really funny, but boy does it make me nervous:)

Happy New Year 2009

2009-01-11T19:32:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The guys...

The girls...

We spent our New Year's Eve with some wonderful friends. We enjoyed a delicious dinner, desserts and of course games and great conversations. This was a kid-friendly night so Kailey had fun staying up late and partying with her buds. We celebrated at 11 instead of midnight so we could be off the road before the drunks we out:) We are excited to see what 2009 brings. 2008 was a WONDERFUL year for the Blanchard family so we are excited to see what the New Year will bring.

Kailey and her horn!

Kailey and Hayley

Daddy, Kailey and Mommy

Christmas 2008 Recap

2009-01-11T18:56:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2008 was really wonderful. This was THE BEST Christmas! All of my family was together and that is what made it so wonderful. The yummy food, fun conversations, games, The Christmas Program, the carriage ride, dinners out and of course Santa coming made this Christmas so memorable and special. Kailey was SOOO in to Christmas this year, she loved tearing the presents open. Santa left some presents unwrapped and the kids really liked that. Both Timmy and Kailey had a wonderful time and had HUGE smiles all morning long. The adults got some great gifts too, but I think our favorite part was watching Kailey and Timmy open all of their presents. Kailey got TONS of awesome gifts, but I think a couple of her favorites were her dollhouse, MORE babies, her shopping cart and the highchair and cradle for her babies. She was really fun to watch this year as she really understood the idea of opening presents. She was so sweet, after she would open a present she would go and tell the person who gave it to her "thank you" and would give them a BIG hug, she is truly a sweet child.

YAY! Daddy's new toy!

stealing Mommy's new purse!

Twenty-Seven

2009-01-11T18:36:00.000-08:00

I can't believe I am 27 years old... Where in the world has the time gone??? I turned 27 on December 23rd and I must say that this year was one of my most favorite adult birthdays. Why, you might wonder?? Because I got to spend it with my incredible family! I spent my birthday with my Mom, both brothers, both sisters, my nephew and of course my wonderful husband and beautiful daughter. It was so great to look around and see my family. It is not often that we are all together so I really cherished this special time.

We were in Oklahoma for my special day. We went to one of my favorite places, BRAVO! YUM! It was delicious! We enjoyed a yummy meal and then headed back to the house for dessert and presents. My middle brother, Jon, has his birthday on December 19th so we "shared" our birthday's this year. After dessert and presents we played some games and visited.

Thank You to my wonderful family for making my day so special.

Happy Birthday Kailey!!!

2009-01-04T19:05:00.001-08:00

Yes, I know I am a day late in writing this, but my excuse is a good one... We were too busy celebrating Kailey's birthday for me to have time to write anything:) Yesterday was so fun! We had a family day to celebrate and boy did we love every second of it! Kailey's favorite place in the whole world is CHUCK E CHEESE, the three days before her birthday she kept asking to go to "Chuck Cheese" so we took her there for her birthday lunch. She had a ball! Eating pizza, drinking coke and running around the place like a wild woman! She was worn out by two so we headed home for a nap. We had a special dinner, opening presents from Mommy and Daddy and then sang Happy Birthday. Kailey was our helper in the singing department. She knows "Happy Birthday to you" so she kept singing that--it was VERY cute! We had some cake and then headed out for ice cream. We really enjoyed this family day. I cannot believe Kailey is TWO. It just seems like yesterday she was born. Time is flying by... I am just so glad I get to spend every day with her. She makes EVERY SINGLE DAY so wonderful.

Her birthday party with friends is next Saturday and boy are we busy getting ready for that! We are doing a "Candy Shop" theme and everything is turning out great! I am SO EXCITED!!We have some fun surprises in store so stay tuned for details...

Lucky Girl

2009-01-02T19:15:00.000-08:00

Kailey will be TWO tomorrow, and let me just tell you, she is one LUCKY little lady.

This is what she is getting for her birthday from some special loved ones...

We have been doing TONS of research and this seemed to fit with our criteria. It is just perfect for Kailey. And I might add it is perfect for Greg too, because the company (Rainbow) comes and sets it up at your home! YAY! Also, if we ever move, they will come and disassemble it, pack it all up and set it up wherever we may move. Awesome, right!?!? It has a great slide, clubhouse, rock wall, swings, a monkey bar, picnic table, tic-tack-toe spinner, binoculars, a picnic table, safety ladder, and more!! Plus, a REALLY great warranty!

The website of the company is www.kidstructures.com they have some great products if you are in the market for a play structure.

I CAN'T WAIT to see Kailey play on it!

Sorry...

2009-01-02T19:13:00.000-08:00

I know, I haven't updated in a while. I promise to update soon, once i get a chance to upload pics from my birthday and Christmas!

Stay Tuned for Birthday, Christmas and New years Pics!!

The Christmas Train

2008-12-20T15:35:00.000-08:00

Last night Greg, Kailey and I went to something called The Christmas Train, at a local church. It was AWESOME!! We were not sure what to expect, but our friends that had already been there said it was something really special.

When we arrived at the church and went in the main building we were greeted by friendly faces and THOUSANDS of Christmas lights, about 10 Christmas trees, live Christmas music, and of course SANTA!! Once we made our way to the ticket counter we noticed other booths serving hot cocoa, pizza, cotton candy, cookies, etc. I got a small hot cocoa and boy was it yummy.

We purchased our tickets for the train and while we waited we enjoyed listening to the music, and Kailey and Greg had fun dancing. They also had a really cute area set up for the kids with bounce houses, santa and really cute Christmas activities.

Once we boarded the train Kailey started yelling "ChooChoo"" ChooChoo" she was so very excited! The train ride lasted about 12 minutes and it shared the true meaning of Christmas with all of the passengers, it was so special and touching. I was really glad to see so many people interested in something like this. It is really refreshing to have a night out with like-minded people.

Anyone living in the Houston area should check it out- here is the link http://www.thechristmastrain.org/

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Baking...

2008-12-20T15:24:00.000-08:00

This past week I pretty much baked something Christmas-like EVERY. SINGLE. DAY!! This is how it went down in the Blanchard Kitchen:

Monday: Make (from scratch) all the dough for 12 DOZEN cookies

Tuesday: Baked 12 DOZEN Christmas Cookies

Wednesday: Make 2 Christmas Tree Cakes and 4 pounds of fudge

Thursday: Make 100 edible snowmen

Friday: Make 2 loaves of homemade breakfast bread, and make divinity.

Saturday: KITCHEN CLOSED!

Kailey and I had LOTS of fun baking it up this past week, but boy did I get in over my head. My problem... to many new recipes to try! Everything turned out fantastic especially the 144 cookies and the edible snowmen.

The kitchen is closed for the rest of the year, so don't call me if you need something baked!

Christmas Crafts

2008-12-17T11:45:00.000-08:00

Kailey has been VERY busy this month making various Christmas crafts. We have made everything from ornaments to mini trees to our own Christmas cards to gift bags and EVERYTHING in between. Kailey LOVES art so it has made the season very fun for both of us!

We decided to make a few special gift bags for the extra special presents. Kailey painted the bags with fingers, toes and paintbrushes. They really turned out cute and I am sure the reciepients will love them as well.

Elf on the Shelf...

2008-12-17T11:24:00.001-08:00

This year we started something fun for Kailey (and future children) at Christmas time. It is called "Elf on a Shelf."

It's meant to be a new Christmas tradition for your family. We've been participating since Thanksgiving and boy are we hooked!

Here's how it works. Mr. Elf comes to visit your home during the holidays. He watches over the home and reports back good deeds to Santa each night. The next morning he comes back and sits in a new location. Your kids get to search him out each day. Kailey LOVES this part! On Christmas Eve he returns to the North Pole and stays their until next year.

Here's how it goes at our house: every night before bed we read the book "Elf on the Shelf" and kiss Mr. Elf goodnight, then Kailey goes to bed, when she wakes up the first thing we do is hunt for the elf. She LOVES this part! We search high and low andHere's how it goes down at our house. Once we find the elf we kiss him good morning and go on with our day. I think as Kailey gets older she will better understand the idea that the elf reports back to Santa part, but for now she is enjoying hunting for him and reading the cute book.

We named our elf something special but for now we are keeping his name within our family.

Just another special touch to the Christmas season!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

More Pictures...

2008-12-15T12:50:00.000-08:00

oops... these didn't load onto the last blog:

Christmas Countdown...

2008-12-15T12:21:00.001-08:00

So, we decided to start a Christmas countdown 12 days before Christmas. We thought that it would help Kailey to see how many days left until she can tear into all of the presents she has been looking at under the tree. We made a paper garland with red and green paper, we have 12 loops, and each day we cut one off, so we can all see how many days are left until the craziness of present opening begins. Kailey LOVES to use the garland as a scarf and is really great at cutting each days loop off (with her safety sissors of course).

Christmas Pictures

2008-12-15T12:05:00.000-08:00

On December 2nd we had Kailey's Christmas pictures taken and boy are they cute. It was so hard to decide which ones to buy. She did really great and smiled the whole time and really LOVED being the center of attention... imagine that?!?!

Below are a few of our favorites...

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Silly Little Kailey

2008-12-12T14:41:00.000-08:00

The last few nights Kailey has been quite the silly girl at dinner. A few nights ago she started to lean in for a kiss and then when we would get close she would move and then CRACK UP! She made a game of it, leaned in for the kiss and then tricked us! She was really having fun being silly. When I pulled the camera out she started to pretend to kiss the camera and then giggle- so silly. She brings so much joy to our lives, moments like this remind me of how very blessed Greg and I are!