Palm Desert

We had the chance to "escape" to Palm Desert for a few days and enjoy some much needed relaxation and sunshine! While we were there we visited the Living Desert zoo and the Children's Discovery Museum, both of which were a lot of fun.

There was a display of African instruments that the kids could try...Addie loves music so she really got into this part (cookies were the only thing to drag her away).

The petting zoo...I missed most of this part but from what I was told this little animal got tired of being the center of attention and gave Addie a "nudge" with his horns.

One of my favorite parts were the giraffe's, I couldn't believe how open this zoo was and how close we were to some of the animals.

Riding the range...

The Discovery Museum had lots of neat exhibits and different things to do while Jonah and Papa were golfing. Addie is very into movement and how things work right now.

The motorcycle was a big hit with most of the kids there.

Cat's 30th Birthday

I don't normally post our day-to-day events but this I had to share. First, to everyone who has asked what I currently look like, here you go! Being pregnant with a boy is so very different (for me) than being pregnant with a girl. At this point in my pregnancy with Addie I was not small (yes, I am being nice to myself today). This little man seems to just suck everything out of me!

Cat is one of my best friends from college and while we don't see each other as much as we would like we are always quick to pick up where we left off. She and her family have always been amazing to us and we were so excited to share in her family birthday.

The best part of this visit was getting to see our growing bellies side-by-side. Cat and I are due 3 weeks apart and we are so excited that our kids will be so close. We are convinced that they are having a girl and our little boy will be able to show her the ropes!

This is yet another glimpse of God's perfect plan, they like us struggled to get pregnant and it is such awesome timing that we are going through this together. We have shared lots of tears and will now share lots of memories!!!

Addie is getting to the age where she is understanding the different things she attends, this was no exception. When she heard "party" she was ready to go and had no problem posing for the camera.

First Day of Pre-school

Addie started a one day a week preschool program this past week and we are enjoying it! I am loving having a few hours to myself and she is loving the interaction with other kids. She did really well the first day and even better this week. Her teachers say she is catching on quickly to the different activities as well as taking instruction...now if that would just transition to home as well!

Our Precious Baby Boy!!!

I have continually said that God has a sense of humor and He has yet to fail me. I fully admit that anyone who asked me what I wanted got the "girl" response as I wanted Addie to have a sister. That said, everyone tried to tell me it is a boy and I think I was living in denial. Jonah new from day one.

Before Lisa (the ultrasound tech) even told us I saw the tell tale sign and was suddenly filled with so many emotions. I can't explain it except to say that I am truly excited and nervous all at the same time. We have been so ensconced in everything little girl that this is a completely new adventure.

I find it so fitting that as my Granddaddy left this earth a new little boy has been sent to fill his place. My Granddaddy was one of my favorite people and I can only pray that this little man has his faith, compassion, and sense of humor.

For now we begin the hunt for names, the middle name will be William (that was my grandfather's name) and seems so appropriate for this time in our lives.

Merry Christmas

This Christmas was so much fun! The video is priceless and very rare to catch Addie in such a good mood when the camera is present. I think she was overwhelmed with all of the festivities but it is such fun to see her starting to understand holidays!

Addie had to wait on our bed for Papa and Gaga to arrive so she could see what Santa brought.

Santa arrived with an easel and art projects in tow...for anyone with small kiddos I highly recommend the Melissa & Doug company. They have all sorts of toys and projects which are fairly easy to assemble (YEAH!) and very kid friendly. Next came lots of gifts for the whole family...some of Addie's favorites so far are her webkinz from her cousins, a soccer ball which she wants to bounce most of the time, (We are eagerly awaiting some dry conditions outside to show her the difference.) a sushi set for her kitchen...too cute, a DJ Soundboard which I can't even begin to describe except to say we will never be in silence again, and the tent which Addie calls her house.

Jonah and his new Giants hat...

Gertie was in on all of the fun as well...

We always miss family during the holidays with everyone scattered across the country but we are so blessed to have my parents near by to share the days!

We love you all and can't wait for 2009!