Happy New Year

Today, the kids came back from the cabin, in Iowa.  They were able to see their cousin Jordan & most of their Aunts & Uncles & extended family. It was a wonderful trip, they had fun, but 5 days was a LONG time to be away...we are so happy to have them home with us once again!

Tonight, we had Baby Emma's Birthday Party.  Notice the beautiful birthday crown Rachael made Emma, all by herself!  She used a little glue & kids scissors, I was so impressed, it looked great.  Above is the Cotton Candy Cake I made her, the kids split it & then headed straight to bath with sticky hands & faces.

 Sticky little Daniel

 For Christmas, I bought Rachael an adorable twin bed tent, it was Disney Princesses & came with a pillow & sleeping bag.  I was so excited about the present, because it was similar to the one I had as a kid, and I remember loving mine.  Christmas Night my mom & I tried putting it together, we worked on it for almost an hour, trying to figure it out.  Finally, we realized that we hadn't gotten all the pieces to put it together.  So, I returned it with a disappointed little girl.  
But grandma is so smart, & put the little yellow pop up tent on Rachael's bed instead. The corners extend over the 4 posts of her bed, so it doesn't move.  It's much roomier than the princess one would have been, she & Daniel love to lay down in it & read or play.

 Presents from our favorite neighbor's, the Ploenzke Family...I used to babysit their boys, Chris, Matt & Greg.  Daniel's middle name is Gregory,in memory & honor of their son Greg .  

 Daniel got a car from a favorite movie of his, CARS.  It goes by itself quickly & Daniel laughs so hard as he runs after it.  Can't tell by this picture, but he truly loves this gift :)

Rachael got a Belle Princess Doll, which she is VERY excited about.  She has all of them now & screamed YES as she opened it up.  Thank You Ploenzke's for your thoughtful gifts, we love them & appreciate your love & kindness!  


It is now, 2011.  Thank God 2010 is over & we survived.  With this new year, I am hopeful that we can continue to move forward & strengthen our relationships with one another & with our extended family.  Rachael said she is excited to try new things this year & keep being happy & loving Daniel & Mommy.  Daniel wants to complete his potty training & get all these ouchie teeth to come in!  


We wish you & yours nothing but blessings, happiness & good health for this new year.