First birthday party Round 1

These pictures are long overdue, but it has been a busy week here at our house. Kelly left this morning, which was very sad, but we are already looking forward to having him home at Christmas.

Jenna's first birthday party was a wonderful time. We have been blessed by so many friends we call family, that Jenna won't know who is who in her family tree! In addition, Grandma and Grandpa "Cleveland" traveled from Ohio for the wonderful occassion. They even stayed for the actual day, which was a fabulous surprise.

Thanks to all who spent the afternoon with us and special thanks to my parents for making the "long trip!" It was appreciated by all.

Monday!

Only a few days left until my dear husband comes home and I can't wait! He should be here for Thursday night if not before. This coming weekend is also Jenna's birthday party and my parents will be coming to town for the festivities. It should be a great time for all, especially our little one year old!
I can't believe it has been a year. In many ways, it seems like just yesterday, but of course in others it seems so far away. I still remember this time last year, when we weren't sure if we would really be able to adopt this little one. In fact, we didn't really have ANY baby things at this time. Kelly and I went to the store and bought $100.00 worth of clothes, diapers, etc. which really isn't much. And I also ordered a basinet online since I figured that could be stashed in the attic much easier than a crib if we came home without her and it never got used. As many of you know, it wasn't until the night before that I started creating a nursery for her. Actually moving furniture and getting a separate room ready. Her homecoming was so different than what many do when they bring home their first child, but of course that just makes it more special in my mind. Now, I can't imagine living without her.
Only one week left of her first year of life! WOW!

Halloween is over!

Yes, it is finally over, but I know Jenna will be wearing her lion costume again soon! She actually went trick or treating three days! Okay, one day we had friends come over to trick or treat here, so she got dressed up that day. Drew and Annie came over with their little dog Marley. Drew had a mask on and Jenna wasn't too sure about that mask. She loved the dog, of course, but Marley had so much energy and was jumping on Jenna's lap, licking her face, etc. Bella was a little jealous, to say the least. Then, on Friday, Jenna and I went trick or treating to the neighbors around here. It was raining so we had to drive, even though it wasn't far. But Jenna had a great time! She would walk around showing off her new walking as well as her cute little tail. By the time we got home, we barely had time for a bath before she fell asleep! Then, on Saturday our other neighbors came for the night. They live in Vincennes and just weekend here. Anyways, Jenna put her costume on for an encore performance. She loved the costume, but was exhausted already when we went to their house so we didn't stay long.
Now, we have the time change. She of course, doesn't understand and wanted to go to bed at 6:00, which used to be 7:00. I decided to let her since she has been sleeping 12 hours a night lately. Hopefully, she will sleep until 6:00, which wouldn't be too bad. I typically get her up around 6:20 anyways. If not, I guess we will have to drive around tomorrow to get her a late nap and keep her up a little later.
All in all, we had a great weekend. I raked, while she spent some time with Grandma and Grandpa Taylor next door. That helped me tremendously. It's always a toss up about getting things done before Kelly gets home, so that we can spend time as a family, or leaving it for him. I decided to rake for him and got about 4.5 hours into it when the neighbor boy came to offer his help! I was very thankful because I probably had another 2 hours to go and I didn't know when I would be able to do it. So, that is done. Next order of business is Bean's birthday. Kelly comes home this week (Wed or Thurs) and that will help me be able to bake her a cake at least. Nothing too grand for her party, we just don't typically get into all that hype. But, that doesn't mean we love her any less! Can't believe she will be one. She is my little dream come true...
Have a great week.