Giving Thanks

As I look back on the last year, I have such an abundance of things to be thankful for.  I thought I'd take a few minutes to list my top ten. 

10.  I am thankful that I have a secure job I enjoy and that allows me to share equally with Dave in providing for our family.  

9.  As much as I complain that we'll be stuck in our condo for a million years, I am so very thankful that I have a comfortable home to return to each night. 

8.  I'm thankful that in this tough economy, Dave and I are never late on any of our bills, and have enough extra to enjoy life. 

7.  As emotionally difficult as my miscarriage was, I am thankful that it happened.  Without that experience, I wouldn't have my angel of a daughter in my life. 

6.  My mom is my best friend in the world.  I am so thankful for the relationship that we have. 

5.  Keith has been an incredible addition to our family.  I'm not sure I really realized the full extent of my feelings towards him until Ellie was born.  Ellie has one Grandpa, and a fantastic one at that. 

4.  I'm thankful for the power that a new baby has to bring people together.  The past year has really helped me to reconnect with my Aunt Kathy and Uncle Wayne.  I love them so much.   

3.  Being a mom is the most incredible challenge I've ever taken on.  Believe me, Ellie's personality will surely make motherhood a challenge :)  I'm thankful to have the opportunity to take it on!   

2.  I'm unbelievably thankful for my husband.  He's been my rock for 9 years, my husband for 3.  I couldn't ask for a man who loves me more, who takes care of me better, who thinks of me all the time, and who puts me ahead of anything else.  I love you, Dave. 

1.  We can all guess what my #1 is.  Ellie is the joy of my life.  I hear daily what a happy little girl she is.  I hope that her feisty, happy-go-lucky personality follows her through life.  She makes me want to be a better person, and I am so thankful that I can say that I am the mother of this amazing little being. 

Take a few to think about what you're thankful for.  It's important to look at the good in your lives...

Happy Birthday to Ellie!

It's hard to believe that our baby girl has been with us for an entire year.  I know it sounds cliche, and I've heard it a hundred times, but I just don't know how I lived the other 25 years of my life without her.  I hear it from everyone; Tammy and Erin at daycare, family members, friends, and neighbors; that Ellie is just the happiest little girl.  I even have former students who've even told me how they just don't get how she's so happy all the time!  I like to think that Dave and I have at least a little bit of influence on that.  In the profession I'm in, I see many families that struggle day in and day out, and I feel really proud that we are able to give Ellie a happy, loving, and comfortable life.  I wouldn't trade any of the ups and downs of Ellie's first year for anything.  It's been quite a ride.  I'd do it all over in a heartbeat. 

Ellie's first year came to an end with a bang!  We had a big party with family and friends who have played a big part in making Ellie's life such a good one!  She was so happy the entire time!  From exploring the party room while we set everything up to smashing cake and opening presents (well, watching me open her presents), Ellie was one happy little lady!

We went with a ladybug theme for her party :)

Making the cutest ladybug appetizers ever!

 I told you they were cute!

My friend, Beth, and her daughter, Jessie, made these adorable

 chocolate covered Oreo favors!

Making a grand entrance into her party!

Ellie and her Great Aunt Janet :)

Uncle Chris is one funny guy!

Great pictures of the family! 

Striking a pose :) 

Ellie's cute and delicious ladybug cake, 

made by our friend, Beth.  Thanks, Beth! 

Oooohh....presents! 

She was such a good girl! 

 I love my new drumset from Nanny and Grandpa!

Group shot! 

All clean! 

Thinking about digging in...

Hmmm...this is good!

Gotta love some oozing chocolate!

And....we're done :)



Catching Up...

Life has been very hectic lately!  Between Halloween, preparing for Ellie's birthday party tomorrow, and report card time at school, I haven't had much time to update the blog.  Life's been great.  Ellie's growing up so fast.  It's hard to believe she's going to be one tomorrow.  That's another post though :)  Here are some pictures from the past few weeks...

Our little monkey...

This was her favorite toy for like a week...why we buy toys is beyond me :)

She was watching Dave chase Kirby around the softball field...apparently they're pretty funny :)

Our 5th Annual Thanksgiving with friends!

Kristen and Matt 

Deirdre and Adam

Sarah, Lee, and Baby Boy Dripps :)

Us :)

We got a free trial class at My Gym Kids Fitness Center.

Ellie LOVED it, so now we're debating on joining :)