Straw World

has it really been that long?????

2011-09-17T10:56:00.000-07:00

I have missed my blogging, maybe I can get back to it this fall, although there may be no readers anymore since I last posted in May! You faithful readers will come back I hope. :)

We have had quite the summer, our family (the 3 of us) vacationed together for 2 months. What a blast! We started out in Georgia, drove to Michigan, then Illinois, then to Iowa, Adam and I even went to California for 10 days just the two of us, it was simply heaven!

I will leave you with a few pics of our summer....

Abby's LOVE'S the water any way she can get it.

Lovin' on cousin Zeke.

Watching the baby chicks at the Iowa State Fair.

Soooo much fun on the giant slide. We had not even gotten all the way to the bottom and she said, "AGAIN"

This n' That

2011-05-18T13:42:00.000-07:00

As you can see we have been really busy, hope you enjoy some pics of Abby!

2 year well check

2011-05-16T11:13:00.000-07:00

Abby passed her "well check" with flying colors! She is 3 feet tall and 32.6 pounds, putting her in the 95th percentile for both. She is talking up a storm as well. Dr. Jackson said she is ahead of the curve (of course I knew that, look who her parents are) HA! She is sooo smart and we are just loving getting to watch her grow and change everyday.

I am going to post some pics later today or tomorrow so stay tuned.......

It's been too long, again!

2011-05-14T05:27:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it has been 2 months since I posted on my blog. I will do a catch-up blog post soon, complete with pictures. (that is for you sarah)

We have been really busy planning, we are taking a 2 month vacation this summer, July 1 - September 10. Stay tuned I will be updating you as we cross the country on our family vacation.

Dinner

2011-03-08T14:05:00.000-08:00

Made this for dinner, YUM! They go perfectly together. :)

http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/spring-risotto-63775.aspx

http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/easy-feta-chicken-bake-54246.aspx

Gone too long!

2011-03-08T11:03:00.001-08:00

So ever since I got Facebook I have seriously neglected my blog, well no more, I am back, oh faithful readers.

For starters I made this for dinner last night and it was amazing!
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/broccoli-rabe-and-salami-pasta-recipe/index.html

I used baby spinach instead of the brocoli rabe and only 2 cloves of garlic. BIG hit with Abigail!

Speaking of Abby, she is going to be 2 at the end of the month, I seriously can't believe it! She is talking all the time, full sentences and has a mind of her own. Soo independent. I will get a few pics of her up here soon.

Stay tuned for more info from Straw World! :)

Heaven is for real!

2011-01-25T10:24:00.000-08:00

I read this book in two days, (probably would have read it in one sitting if I was still single and childless) it is a MUST read. You will laugh and cry at the same time, you will have chills and goose bumps.

I know I believe in heaven and one of the things I look forward to most is seeing my mom again, this book affirms my hope of reuniting under one beautiful rainbow in heaven with her.

Sometimes we lose sight of the big picture and get caught up in the everyday, this book reminded me what we are living for, for eternity with God. We all go thru times when we are in need of reminding of how great God is, of how much we are loved by God and how awesome His plan is for us. This book gave me just the pick me up I needed. I believe all things happen for a reason, if you are reading this blog you should read this book,if nothing else it will make you think, it may draw you back to God where you belong, it could change your life forever.

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Heaven-Is-for-Real/Todd-Burpo/e/9780849946158/?itm=1&USRI=heaven+is+for+real%3a+a+little+boy%27s+astounding...

Watching the snow fall

2011-01-10T16:58:00.001-08:00

Snow Cream

2011-01-10T15:26:00.000-08:00

White Christmas in SC

2010-12-26T08:24:00.000-08:00

Watching the snow fall.

Iowa

2010-12-05T17:37:00.001-08:00

Abby and I spent November in Iowa with A LOT of really excited great grandparents and grandparents. We were able to see aunts, uncles and 2nd cousins too! We had so much fun and Abby has been talking about all the new people she met since we got back to South Carolina.

Abby loved flying on the airplane, so much that I had to wait to tell her until we were leaving because she would just keep yelling, airplane airplane!!!

We can't say Thank You enough to our families for housing us and feeding us!

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with the Schaad's and the Straw's. Traditional turkey dinner was at the Schaad's and we had pheasant dinner at the Straw's. My dad also made homemade eggnog ice cream which was amazing!

We did not get any snow in Iowa but with any luck maybe SC will get some like it did in February. :)

We don't know when our next trip to Iowa will be but I hope it is soon.

Leaves

2010-11-10T18:21:00.001-08:00

Abby played in the leaves at G'pa Schaad's today, she had so much fun!

Bed Head

2010-11-10T18:17:00.001-08:00

Abby loves her new Pooh Bear from G'pa and G'ma Schaad. She was riding him this morning in her jammies. She has the cutest bedhead too.

The Plague

2010-11-08T06:52:00.000-08:00

Our house has been hit with the plague. Abby and I were supposed to fly to Iowa on Saturday and at 5:30 am I was in the hospital with the worst flu I have ever had. I am finally coming out of the haze and Adam has a head cold to beat all. Thankfully Abby has not even sneezed. We have been praying over her to stay healthy! Praise God she is good so far. Abby and I are going to try to head to Iowa tomorrow, please pray for us, safe travels and good health.

Foot

2010-10-31T18:08:00.001-07:00

These videos speak for themselves, too funny, we just have to laugh!

BOO!

2010-10-31T17:35:00.001-07:00

Happy Halloween from our Little Pumpkin

2010-10-31T16:37:00.000-07:00

We had a lot of fun tonight, there was a costume contest for all the kids in our neighborhood at the park. She really liked seeing all the kids in their costumes. We took Abby to a few houses to trick-or-treat and she was such a charmer, although I think she liked having the kids come to our door the most. Here are a few shots of our fun.

Daddy is under my spell....

2010-10-30T13:20:00.001-07:00

Abby went to daddy's work on Friday to trick-or-treat. She had a lot of fun and was really good at getting just one piece of candy. She was the cutest pumpkin there.

This is Abby's runway pose.

Davey the scarecrow and Abby the pumpkin.

Eating snacks with Daddy.

Stinkin' Cute!

Halloween is here!

2010-10-28T10:21:00.000-07:00

Abby and I go to a program called Time Out (which is like mother's morning out) Today we had our Halloween party. The kids all dressed up and decorated pumpkins and cookies and ate pizza. It was a fun morning!

Abby wanted to get candy with her Vera bag not her trick or treat bag, too bad because her treat bag is cute, maybe she will use it at one of our other Halloween parties this weekend.

Brayden and Abby

Zach, Josh, Brayden and Abby

She was a dancing fool, she got hot and we had to take her costume off.

Stay tuned for more Halloween fun, we are going to Daddy's work tomorrow!

fun in the park

2010-10-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

We went to the park a few days back and the kids had a blast on the see-saw.

Mitchell Landon

While Mom and Dad are away.....

2010-10-28T10:02:00.000-07:00

Adam and I recently took a trip to Savannah, it was our first weekend away without Abby. We met up with some college friends, Matt and Emily, we had some wonderful meals, took a carriage ride, did lots of shopping, the girls had a trip to the spa and the boys did a pub crawl. We also celebrated Matt's 30th birthday.

.........Abby and Grandma will play

Abby and Grandma Straw had a lot of fun! Abby got her first tutu, first baby stroller, a new picnic table, her first trip to buy a pumpkin, her first chance to mush play-doh and her first drawing with side-walk-chalk. Abby is still talking about her time with Gma and lucky for her we will be in Iowa very soon.

Thanks for coming to stay with Abby, we really had a wonderful time in Savannah! :)

Maine Part 2

2010-10-25T10:52:00.001-07:00

We stayed at this beautiful home on Bailey Island. Check out this website for more pictures and views. http://www.maineislandgetaway.com/

The sunsets were gorgeous!

We had lots of fun hanging around the house, and we also frequented a few beaches.

We bought live lobsters at Cook's which was right across the street from the house we rented. We boiled them ourselves, and it was very yummy!

Abby was so excited to see the "shishey" she was not scared to even touch them. (of course the whole time I am praying that one of the bands does not come off)

Abby also loved watching them swim in our sink, she even thought they would still be there when she woke up the next morning. Whoops!

The finished product was amazing!

We has such a wonderful time in Maine, I know we will go back someday soon.

Maine Part 1

2010-10-25T10:16:00.000-07:00

We went to Maine in September, we spent a few days in Portland and them met up with Adam's parents to head to Bailey Island for a week. Here are a few pics of our time in Portland.

We took a ferry ride and Abby loved the big boat.

We went to a Sea Dogs Baseball game.

Abby really enjoyed the game.

Adam sent me to this place to relax a while all by myself. :)

You choose a soak for your feet (I chose mint chocolate) and sit in these big sofa's while they serve you tea. How amazing!

All About Abby In Maine

2010-09-29T05:12:00.000-07:00

We went to Maine at the beginning of the month with G'pa and G'ma Straw. I truely can't believe that it is the 29th already, this post is long overdue so I will get to the reason we all know you are here, which is to see pictures of Abby! Then I will share some stories and family pics on another post.

Dr Abby

2010-08-30T06:38:00.000-07:00

Abby LOVES playing doctor when she has to go in for a check up. Her favorite are the tongue depressors, she even opens her mouth and says aaaahhhh.

Moeckl Reunion

2010-08-26T10:08:00.000-07:00

Abby and I went to Tennesse this month for the Moeckl Family reunion. I am not sure what I was thinking driving Abby by myself to TN for 6 hours in the car, but I did and we lived, thank goodness. Here are a few pics of out trip. We had to leave early because Abby got sick but we had a lot of fun while we were there!

Grandpa made waffles, ice cream and pizza for everybody and it was sooo good!

This little wooden bear was at our front door in our cabin and Abby had to give him "sugars" everytime we left and came back.

Grandpa taught Abby how to splash at the pool.

You might be a redneck if.........

2010-07-25T06:55:00.000-07:00

You put up the garage door, pull out the cars, set up your lawn chairs, "cut" on your box fans to blow in the direction of your lawn chairs, and cut on the radio to broadcast the cubs game all while........

your daughter plays in the kiddie pool that is in the garage too!

Hey, we live in the south people this is totally normal. HA!

She also figured out that with the fans going putting cups over your ears makes it sound like the ocean.

Here mama you try.

We had a wonderful day, Abby played by herself in the pool for 2 + hours and we tried to stay cool with the fans and a frosty beverage. Hope you enjoyed our redneck pool party.

A few fun things.....

2010-07-22T09:29:00.000-07:00

Abigail has really taken to loving and feeding her babies.

Check out this video......

A new passtime with Dada. Check out this video......

She loves her monkey.

We just got an indoor ball pit, it is the highlight of our toys right now. Kinda messy with 200 balls all over the livingroom, but sooo much fun!

She is a little spitfire these days.

Watch this video.....

Bubbles

2010-07-12T10:04:00.000-07:00

The other day we had fun with bubbles inside because it has been too hot to go outside and play.

Hop along Lilly

2010-07-12T09:57:00.001-07:00

Some of you have heard and some have not, Lilly has Mast Cell cancer. She had surgery on Thursday and is recovering well. She will be sporting a cast for 2 weeks. (I have never seen Lilly so calm) The prognosis is not great as we know that the cancer has spread to her lymph system from a biopsy of a node. We aren't sure what the next step is yet, please keep her in your thoughts.

Boo Boo

2010-07-12T09:55:00.001-07:00

Abby has taken to walking on her tip toes, I have yet to get it on video, however this is what happens when you fall into the kitchen cupboard.

Blowing Rock

2010-07-12T09:47:00.001-07:00

We went to Blowing Rock NC for the 4th weekend. We rented a nice little condo in the mountains. A few pics from out trip.....

Enjoying the view and loving the doggy.

We saw great g'pa and g'ma mewhirter while we were there too.

The flowers were just beautiful!

Adam played a little horse shoes.

Having fun at the park playing in the mulch.

Bad Blogger

2010-07-01T11:31:00.000-07:00

I know it has been too long since I posted on the blog. I will try to get better at this. We have been really busy. The three of us made a trip to Chicago for Abby's first cubs game and Abby and I went to Iowa for 3 weeks while Adam worked really hard. Here a a few pics of our trips. (not sure why some are so small)

Abby and PaPa

Abby and Gma

Abby Loves Harvey!!!

First skinned knee

Going to the zoo

2010-05-11T19:20:00.000-07:00

We got a pass to the zoo this year and Abby is a BIG fan! She loves being outside and seeing all the animals. She thinks everything is a "dawgie" but we are working on that. If you ask her what a lion says she will roaoaoaor for you. She giggles when she feeds the giraffes, this is her favorite thing to do by far.

We spend most of the time pointing and saying "dooo ohhhh" which I can only assume means look it mommy!

These are some of the kids in our small group on aplay date at the zoo. We have 9 kids in all but only 7 are in this pic.

The last time we went to the zoo Abby fell asleep in the stroller which has never happened before. She only slept 20 minutes but this is progress people! (sorry the pic is sideways)

Pooh Party in South Carolina

2010-05-11T18:56:00.001-07:00

We had a Winnie the Pooh party for Abby's first birthday here in South Carolina. We invited all of our friends to celebrate with us and as you will see Abby put on quite a show!

The mess begins....................

Mommy get it off my hand!

Super Sweet!

Sharing?

2010-04-12T17:48:00.000-07:00

Abby is learing how to share, sort of. The other day I was talking to Adam while he was at work and recorded this........

Happy 30th Birthday Adam!

2010-04-12T17:30:00.000-07:00

Adam turned thirty this year and we celebrated with a few of his favorites! We invited friends to Mellow Mushroom for pizza and brought along a Bruster's chocolate peanut butter ice cream cake. Here are a few pics of our evening!

Waiting for Daddy.

Look mom a balloon!

Make a wish! We love you babe, Happy Birthday.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-12T17:11:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter! This was Abby's second Easter but her first egg hunt and easter basket, enjoy the pics.

Happy 1st Birthday Abigail!

2010-03-28T17:37:00.000-07:00

We can hardly believe that is has been a year since Abby joined our family. We have had such a wonderful year with her and are looking forward to the adventures ahead of us. We took her home to Iowa for her 1st hair cut and her 1st birthday party. Here are a few pics of our time there.

Daddy do you want some cake?

Mommy, I am all sticky could you help me?

opening some presents

Hair Cut

Abby did an amazing job at her first hair cut, she sat and played with the toys like nothing was happening. I hope we get this lucky on the haircuts to come. :)

Before

After

Happy with a sucker!

We are so glad we could share Abby's special day with our family, the trip was much too short but we will never forget her first birthday in Iowa!

Stairway to....doggy

2010-03-09T13:43:00.000-08:00

Abby has a new trick she would like to share with you........

I think we need another gate!

Fun Zone and Friends

2010-02-25T06:00:00.000-08:00

We went to a kids fun house yesterday called the Fun Zone for a play date with some friends. Abby loved it and she was full of giggles the whole time.

Dog House

2010-02-24T06:18:00.000-08:00

I was doing some dishes this morning and it got really quiet, this is what I found.

I was waiting for the day that Abby would realize she could fit in Lilly's kennel, I didn't think she would figure it out while Lilly was in there. As you can see Lilly is less than pleased with the Abby invasion.

Move over I am trying to turn around!

The pink bracelet and ribbon (one in each hand) go almost everywhere with her.

Lilly bailed as soon as she thought it was safe to exit the kennel. HA! Poor dog, she has no sacred place from the baby.

Shake that funky leg!

2010-02-22T16:52:00.000-08:00

Savannah

2010-02-19T07:02:00.001-08:00

In Savannah, GA on River Street for Valentine's with my two sweeties! What more could a girl ask for?

Lilly and Abby chillin' in the sun.

Just the three of us.

Abby and Daddy waving out the window of the loft we stayed in.

Shea and Murphy, the horses on our carriage ride thru Savannah.

Abby had a great time until about the last 5 minutes.

A few sites to see around town.

Waiting to be seated at The Lady and Sons

Abby after eating the buffet at The Lady and Sons. HA!

Another wonderful place we ate at while in Savannah, this was suggested by Adam's grandma and it was amazing. We sat by a real wood burning fire place for lunch.

The best meal we ate in Savannah was here at Nobel Fare! Words cannot describe the amazingness (is that a word? it is now) of this bistro.

Abby was a little angel at this fancy place, she had such good table manners and the guests around us just loved her!

We had a fabulous time in Savannah and can't wait to go back.

Grandma Deb Visits

2010-02-19T07:02:00.000-08:00

We recently has a visit from Adam's mom, we had a wonderful time, Abby and Grandma were good pals all week long. They played patty cake, peek-a-boo, went for walks, did laundry (one of Abby's favorite things is to throw the clean clothes from the dryer on the floor), and all sorts of other fun games. Great G'pa and G'ma came from NC that week too, they just popped in for a night. Here are a few pics from our time with them.

Walk on Girl!!

2010-01-31T17:12:00.000-08:00

Abigail started walking tonight! She took two steps and then she just kept going. Here is a couple videos of her first steps.

Doggy Heaven

2010-01-27T07:11:00.001-08:00

Today we said good-bye to one of our furry friends. Toby has lived a long and happy life and has given us great joy over the years. He was one of the family and a true companion. Anyone who had the privilege of knowing Toby would surely believe in doggy heaven because a dog like Toby deserves a heavenly rest. Any kid who ever met Toby always gave the same big smile that Abby had every morning when he came to give her kisses. He was was pure joy, even on your worst day Toby could make you smile.

Here are a few pictures of Toby over the years.

We are going to miss you Bubba!

Peek a Boo Abby

2010-01-21T17:25:00.000-08:00

Abby learned how to do this yesterday, so stinkin' cute!!

A few more Christmas pics

2010-01-16T06:17:00.000-08:00

Their faces say it all! G'pa Mark and Abby

Great G'pa and G'ma Schaad

She sticks her tongue out when she thinks like Grandma Deb

Abby, Angela, Adam, Nathan, Vanessa, Rachael, Grant, Jessica, G'pa Mark, G'ma Pam

Adam, Angela, Abby, Grandpa Mark, Great Grandma Carol, Great Grandpa LelandRachael, Jessica, Angela, Nathan

Abby is thinking. Mom, seriously.......

Is the craziness over yet, When do we go home?

Abby did really well meeting all these new people but by the end of the week she was ready to go home. :)

Abby's First Christmas and Visit to Iowa

2010-01-07T17:05:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful first Christmas with Abby. We drove all the way to Iowa and we were welcomed by snow and ice the whole way! Abby was a real trooper for the long car rides, sleeping in hotels, and cold diaper changes in the car. There were many firsts for Abby this trip, but most importantly she met a ton of family members who were anxious to see her. We had such a good time and our trip will not soon be forgotten. Here are a few pics of our time in Iowa.

Abby's first experience with sledding.

Uncle Nathan and Abby

Aunt Sarah and Abby

We met Lily Straw for the first time, she is the daughter of Adam's cousin Luke and his wife Sara.

Abby loved the tissue paper in the presents.

Great Grandma Straw and Sarah

Adam's Sister Sarah (in green) Adam's Cousin's wife Sara (in red)

Grandpa Steve and Abby

Adam Steve Luke and Mark went hunting for some pheasant.

Abby just loves her Aunt Sarah, she was giving her kisses all week.

One of Steve and Deb's friends knit this hat for Abby, it is so cute on her!

Helping daddy open presents

She loves her choo choo

Abby's first Christmas ornament.

Adam's parents Steve and Deb

Great Grandma Mewhirter, Sarah Paul, Deb Straw

Aunt Rachael and Abby

Aunt Jessica and Abby

We took Abby out to see my mom and brought her a poinsettia. They were one of mom's favorites.

Abby's first Christmas Eve Service

Abby and Elsa

Cousin Aaron and Katie

Michael, Nathan and Grant

Cousin Jon and Liz

Cousin Chad and Cousin Drew

Abby had such a good time opening presents. She liked the paper best but now that the presents are home and there is no paper to play with she is having such fun with her new toys!

Vanessa, Nathan, Emily and Malcolm

Great Grandpa Schaad and Abby

Aunt Vanessa, Uncle Nathan and Abby

Malcolm, Abby and Great Grandma Schaad

Lilly was exhausted after all the traveling, hunting, and people watching.

Merry Christmas and Happy new to you all. May you have a blessed 2010! We can't wait to see what this new year has in store for us.

Homeward Bound.......

2009-12-16T19:31:00.000-08:00

We are off to the great state of Iowa! We will be departing on Friday and hope to make it to J-town by Saturday evening. We are so excited to play in the snow, drink chocotini's, play in the snow, Adam will be hunting, play in the snow, see old friends, hangout with family, ooh and did I say play in the snow! We are also excited to introduce Abby to all of her relatives, look out Iowa here we come!!!

just peekin' thru

2009-12-09T06:11:00.000-08:00

Abby's first tooth broke the skin on December 7th. The two days before that were just horrible. I wish I had know so I could have given her some motrin sooner. I have done pretty well with her milestones......like eating rice cereal, then veggies and fruits, even crawling and pulling up on the furniture but for some reason this milestone is really hard. She is growing up too fast. I like her toothless grin, maybe I will like it just the same with one tooth, guess we will find out sooner than later. I will post a picture just as soon as we can get one! HA! For now you will have to oogle at these.

Gobble, Gobble Friends & 8 Months

2009-12-02T07:24:00.000-08:00

We have been busy the last couple of weeks, our good friends from Mass came to visit for a week, we had Abby's first Thanksgiving and she turned 8 months.

Abby and Landon meet for the first time, they were so sweet!

The train is always every kids favorite, the game is to see how many kids can ride at one time. (and not get hurt of course)

They pretty much spent the whole week playing like this.

Abby is eating a yogurt melt, just so you don't think she is choking on a toy. :)

Our good friends - Jason, Erin, Mitchell, and Landon.

Mitchell giving Abby a smooch. Too precious!

A little cuddle time and book reading before bed.

Adam carving the turkey.

Abby loved Thanksgiving Dinner. She ate turkey, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pie. She loved all the new flavors and textures.

Mitchell eating some mac n' cheese

Playing after the big meal. Our other good friends Jeff and Tricia came for dinner too. Tricia your green bean, sweet potatoes and pumpkin pies were amazing!!!

Turkey day was pretty relaxing around here, we took naps and ate too much.

We went to Copper River with Jay and Erin on their last night here and then to marble slab for dessert.

Abby and Landon both had their first taste of ice cream. Abby had pumpkin and Landon had cinnamon.

De Stratis family we had such a wonderful time with you, it was so great to meet Landon for the first time. We miss you already, it is too quiet around here! I am having a urge to beat Jay at Catan again, could you come over for a rematch tonight? We love you guys! Don't stay gone too long. :)

Abby is climbing all over everything these days. She is eating "solid foods" and is just the happiest kid around. Her personality is really starting to come thru and she has a lot of preferences these days, especially when it comes to eating and playing with the dogs. We are enjoying every minute with her. It is crazy that she turned eight months already, where does the time go?

Happy 60th Wedding Anniversary G'pa and G'ma Mewhirter

2009-11-20T16:29:00.000-08:00

Happy Anniversary! We hope you are having a wonderful time in Alabama.

Asheville, NC & Biltmore Estate

2009-11-12T16:26:00.000-08:00

We went to Asheville and the Biltmore a couple weekends ago, we rented a cabin that was just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. It was just beautiful, the leaves were changing and the weather was amazing!

We ran across some turkeys in the road.

Abby sitting in a chair on our porch.

Abby and daddy admiring the architecture.

The wine cellar, there was a wedding going on while we were there. How cool to have your reception in the wine cellar!

Abby was such a good girl, she took two naps in the Bjorn while we were at the Biltmore.

What a happy girl!

We spent our morning by the fireplace.

We ate lunch in downtown Asheville on our way home. This is our view from the pub.

We had such a nice relaxing weekend, we almost called to see if we could stay an extra night.

Abby's first lollipop

2009-10-31T17:04:00.001-07:00

We let Abby have a few licks of her first lollipop, lets just say she LOVED it! She knew exactly what to do and when we decided she had had enough, she cried. She was licking that lollipop like she had done it a thousand times. These pics really speak for themselves.

Abigail's Dedication

2009-10-31T07:24:00.001-07:00

We had Abigail dedicated on October 11th and G & G Schaad were able to come. It was really a nice day and we got to eat waffle breakfast!

Abigail is wearing the dress I wore when I was dedicated.

After church G & G Schaad made brunch for all of our friends. We had Dad's homemade waffles and ice cream and Pam's cheesy potatoes were a huge hit too. We are so glad that G'pa and G'ma could come and share this special time with us. Everyone really liked meeting my parents and having a full belly, which my dad loves doing, he would never miss an opportunity to fill someones tummy with waffles, that's what the Schaads do!!

G'pa and Abby chillin' out after the brunch.

We can't thank you enough for all of your help for Abby's dedication. It would not have been as cool without you there. Your brunch was a hit, our friends want to know when you are coming back. We love you!

Grandpa and Grandma Schaad Visit

2009-10-31T07:02:00.000-07:00

Grandpa and Grandma Schaad came to visit Abby at the beginning of October and they stayed for a week. It was a really nice visit and they were here for Abigail's dedication (another post on that later). We spent the week doing pretty low key things since Abby and I had been sick. Poor Abby had a double ear infection and the swine flu. I must say she was a really good baby for being so sick. Grandma Pam met Abby for the first time and it was love at first kiss. They really bonded over the week. We went for lots of walks and Grandma really liked feeding Abby her lunch and dinner.

Pam and I got to go shopping, get coffee and we got pedi's. We did some relaxing when we could too.

Pam and Lilly got close this week too, they both have a love for curling up on the couch!

Adam and my Dad went to an air show and had a really good time.

Abby stole Grandpa's heart all over again.

I think we spent most of the week just playing with Abby and watching her test her limits. The week G & G Schaad were here Abby was pulling up in her crib and was starting to crawl, more inching like a worm but she was starting the crawling process.

We had a really nice time with G & G Schaad, a week was too short! Can't wait to see you at Christmas.

Happy Halloween

2009-10-30T18:12:00.001-07:00

We have had fun this last week getting ready for Halloween. We carved pumpkins at our small group and we had trick or treat at Adam's work today. We did a little photo shoot with Abby which turned out to be a little challenging now that she can crawl, but she is still a cute Tigger. I dressed up too, as a cat. We had a great time! Hope you all have a good Halloween with lots of cute kids at your door doing tricks for candy.

Abby's New Tricks

2009-10-28T17:15:00.000-07:00

Abby has been trying out some new tricks lately. She can stand up in the crib and crawl. She found it more interesting to play and stand up than to go to sleep, so we had to take her fun away and we lowered the crib. She has been crawling for about a week but we just got this video yesterday. She is camera shy and every time we get the video going she stops doing her tricks.

We have had a really busy month so be looking for a couple more posts, including our visit with Grandpa and Grandma Schaad and Abby's Dedication.

Happy B-day Aunt Sarah

2009-10-01T11:09:00.000-07:00

happy 6 month birthday!

2009-09-28T18:08:00.000-07:00

Today is Abby's 6 month birthday, we had a little party for her tonight. She got her first taste of yogurt and she loved it! Abby is eating green beans, peas, carrots, bananas, pears, and peaches along with her rice cereal and oatmeal. She loves to go for rides in her stroller, we took her across the Lake Murray Dam this weekend, she was just taking it all in, wind in her hair and eyes wide open. Our baby girl is really on the go, she is scooting around on the floor, sitting up to play, and just this past saturday when Adam went to get her from her nap she was sitting up in her crib! She is sooo talented. (doesn't every proud parent say that, ha!) We are learning new things about Abby everyday and we just can't get enough. We love you Toots and we can't wait to see what the next 6 months bring, but don't grow up too fast, okay?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUXmG8g1QDk&layer_token=fa10be4f4dbff9b8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__Br4IWR65E&layer_token=b464f156781cd41a

I know my name

2009-09-22T08:49:00.001-07:00

Stink'n Cute!

2009-09-22T07:52:00.000-07:00

What have we been up to?

2009-09-15T07:02:00.001-07:00

We have been really busy lately, we love watching Abby grow and change everyday. Here is a little bit of what we have been doing the last month.

Abby has taken a liking to books, she loves looking at the pictures. We think she is going to be a good student because she loves to study things.

Abby still loves the exersauser, the giraffe is her favorite to chew on.

We started Abby on rice cereal a while ago but now we are onto the veggies. She eats peas and green beans with her cereal now and she just loves it. She makes mmmm sounds when she eats.

This kid can jump! She will jump for 20 or 30 minutes now, she really gets a workout.

A couple weeks ago we went and played a round of golf with daddy, we almost made it 18 holes but Abby got tired. She really enjoyed driving the cart and looking at all the cool outdoor stuff.

We also had a visit from Grandpa and Grandma Straw for Labor day weekend, I will post more on that later, for now I am off to clean house!

Mountain Memories in Maggie Valley

2009-08-17T16:36:00.000-07:00

We spent a long weekend in Maggie Valley NC, it was our first trip alone with Abby and the dogs. We rented a house called Mountain Memories that we found on VRBO.com and it was on Utah Mountain. It was so refreshing to have cooler weather and a better view of the stars. We made big breakfast every morning around 8:30, Abby let us sleep in. Then we would get ready while she took her morning nap. Upon her waking up we would go exploring. We ate lunch at some nice places and found an amazing bakery. Then we would head home and grill out for dinner and sit and watch stars in the hot tub, after we put Abby to sleep.

Abby is playing with her toys while we ate lunch at a place called the Sweet Onion, I had some fantastic pink trout, which I am told was caught just 6 miles down the road.

Adam took a picture of Abby playing while mommy shopped in a baby boutique.

This was the lunch spot on day two, it was right along a creek and had all outside dining.

Lilly always finds a blanket to lay on and this trip was no exception, she took to the bear rug right away.

Toby found a nice spot in the hallway so you had to step over him to walk by.

Then he got smart and realized that Lilly had a good thing on the bear rug, so while she was out on the deck hunting bugs he took over the rug.

Eventually they decided to share.

We went to the Smokey Mountain National Park. Here I am preaching at the Palmer Chapel.

This is Abby at her first day of school.

We hung out in the car for a little while to give Abby time out of her car seat. She is really into giving kisses now as you can see.

This is an old house in the park, it was crazy how low the ceilings were.

These pretty purple flowers were growing all over the park.

We also got to see some wild Elk that live on the Park.

Abby holding onto her daddy.

These butterflies followed us all around as we toured the park.

We got to go on a 20 minute date and have some gelato while Abby slept in her stroller beside us. We found a place called the Chocolate Bear while we toured main street in Waynesville. This is also where we found the most amazing bakery, I ate enough sugar for like a month!

We had a great time and did lots of relaxing and had tons of family time.

We got a 14 pounder!

2009-08-14T07:45:00.001-07:00

Can you believe this cute little thing is 14.4 pounds and almost 25 inches long! She is growing up too fast, she is trying really hard to sit up on her own, it is exhausting.

We are off to the mountains for the weekend so you will have a blog to look forward to next week.

4 months

2009-08-10T06:31:00.000-07:00

Abby just turned 4 months old and we can't believe it! She is growing and changing so fast. She talks all day long, (like her mother) rolls over from her belly to her back, scoots on the floor, (she wants to crawl so bad) she chooses what toy she wants to play with and lets you know when she is bored with it, she loves the jump up and the bumbo seat, (anything that keeps her upright) she does not want to be rocked to sleep anymore, (this makes mommy sad) she also prefers to suck on her thumb or fingers instead of the pacifier, she loves to look at herself in the mirror, bath time solves all her problems she loves the water, (until you take her out of the tub) she is trying really hard to to sit up on her own, she has slept from 8pm to 7am for almost two weeks now, (she still wakes up in the middle of the night but not to eat) she loves to give kisses, (they are soo slobbery) she is a snuggle bunny in the morning, smiles all day long, (most of the time) she is trying to shake that third nap but some days she really needs it, she has the sweetest personality and is so out going. We can't remember life before her and would not change a thing. She is an amazing little girl and so full of energy, we cherish everyday with her even the tough ones. She loves to laugh and one smile makes everything right in our world. We love you baby girl!

Fast Friends II

2009-08-07T07:30:00.000-07:00

Bathtime

2009-08-07T07:28:00.001-07:00

Fast Friends

2009-08-06T07:47:00.000-07:00

When we were just dog parents we loved having two dogs because they could play together and entertain themselves, now we love having two dogs because they entertain Abby. She is totally in love with the dogs and she has a special bond with Toby. We love watching Abby reach out for Toby when he walks by her and follow him with her head when he leaves. They also like to give kisses, how sweet is that, dog drool and baby drool. :)

Jump around, jump up and get down

2009-08-05T19:24:00.000-07:00

Abby is really enjoying her new jumper and Toby and Abby have fallen in love. Watch Abby jump then turn to follow Toby as he walks away.

Feet and Bathtime Fun

2009-07-26T07:55:00.000-07:00

Abby found her feet a couple weeks ago but up until this week she could not get them in her mouth. They are her new favorite toy!

Bumbo Fun

2009-07-26T07:53:00.000-07:00

Abby loves her bumbo seat, she sits in it while we eat dinner and uses it as a teether.

Sweet Mornings

2009-07-26T07:45:00.000-07:00

This is the sweet face we wake up to every morning!

Rice Cereal

2009-07-09T09:26:00.001-07:00

Abby has been eating 5 times a day for a while now and the last few weeks she has been wanting to pick up an extra feeding in the evening so I called her doctor to ask about giving her rice cereal. While I was sad to call because that means she is growing up, she was obviously wanting more to eat. So for about a week now Abby has been having cereal for dinner, she absolutely loves it! She is usually wanting more when it is all gone and I must say she is very good about eating from a spoon, hardly any of her cereal is on the bib. She also wants to help put the spoon in her mouth along with some fingers. Her daddy is not so sure about the whole eating baby food thing and to be honest I am not either but that is only because she is growing up too fast and we want her to stay little. Here are a few pics of her first bites.

Ya, Mon!

2009-07-08T10:06:00.001-07:00

So here is where our trip to Jamaica started. We have a sleepy baby and a 2 plus hour plane ride, this can only go two ways, she sleeps or she cries, well I am not going to brag (Yes I am) but we have the BEST baby ever to travel on a plane. She either slept or cooed the whole way there! We are very proud of our world traveler.

Once we finally landed Aunt Sarah could finally hold her niece! What a great first meeting.

This is beautiful Tensing Pen, the resort that we stayed at. We stayed in the " Long House" with Adam's Parents and it was a blast.

We spent our mornings by the pool or in the hammock's eating breakfast and reading books while grandma and grandpa watched Abby. It was so relaxing, we needed the break and couple time.

Abby got in on the pool action too but she had to wait until afternoon. The sun was soo bright that she would cry when we took her out at noon.

Adam and I went to dinner one night by ourselves to the Rock House which was another resort a little down the road from us. It was our second date since we had Abby and we decided we need to do it more often. The food was great and the sunset was amazing!

Grandpa Straw gave Abby a tour of the resort almost everyday, she loves to be walked around and look at all the colors.

Abby is a real ham she loves to entertain people and grandpa and grandma love being the captive audience.

Adam and his dad spent their time playing cribbage on the patio at our house and the view was just gorgeous.

When we originally booked our stay at Tensing Pen we did not know we were having Abby so I called them when we found out we were pregnant and asked about getting a crib. The lady said Ya Mon we have a crib, I said great we won't have to bring the pack n' play with us. This is the crib that Abby slept in, one afternoon I went in to check on her during her nap and this is what I found. Thank goodness cribs have improved since this one was made.

One of the big attractions was jumping off the bridge into the ocean, some people would not even go across the bridge. As you can see there are no hand rails and it is pretty far down.

Adam's Uncle Greg and Cousin Kelsey took the plunge.

Adam's Parents on the boat cruise.

Adam and his cousin Erica on the boat cruise discussing the meaning of life.

We had a really great house keeper named Sonya while we stayed at the Long House and after being there a couple days we asked her if she had kids. She said yes I have 6 ages 13 to 31, we said great, would you watch Abby for us while we are at the wedding? She agreed and it was nice to be able to enjoy the wedding and have Abby play with Sonya in the air conditioning.

The Bride and Groom.

Kelsey and Abby.

The three of us in our wedding duds!

Aunt Sarah and Abby.

We had such a good time in Jamaica, the best part was being with all of Adam's family. The wedding was beautiful and we are so glad we could make it. Jamaica gave us the relaxation we needed. We are trying to plan our next getaway now, we figure if we can take Abby to Jamaica we can take her anywhere!

Talk a little?

2009-07-06T05:23:00.000-07:00

Abby found her voice a few weeks ago but until the last couple of days she has had to think really hard to get sounds to come out, now she talks all day long with ease. She has all kinds of stories to tell and her voice is so sweet. I took this video in the car while we waited in a line of cars to go see the fireworks on the 4th.

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-04T12:59:00.000-07:00

blog post long overdue

2009-07-03T08:01:00.000-07:00

Hello! to all of you faithful readers. I know this post is long overdue, I am finally on the mend and feeling like a kinda normal mommy again. It has been one heck of a month but we are back from Jamaica and feeling refreshed. I don't think we have ever needed a vacation as bad as we needed this one. I have lots to blog about and I promise to get on that right away, next week! Since today is my birthday I can blog if I want to, blog if I want to. HA! So, I know what you really care about is that Abby is three months old and soooo cute, so here is a little eye candy for you to keep you checking the blog until I put up some more pics and stories from our last month.

Ascites...... What?!?!?

2009-06-08T13:25:00.000-07:00

This is pronounced uh - sahy - teez which is that latest thing to put me back in the hospital, and yes you read that right, back in the hospital! So you know I have had my gall bladder out, well ,I just never could get better, in fact I kept getting worse so much so that I was in more pain than the whole gall bladder attack ever gave me. I called the surgeon on Tuesday last week to tell him something was really wrong, I keep feeling worse and worse, he says okay lets get a scan done of the surgery site maybe you have a bile leak from the gall bladder being taken out, well that was not the case, after what seemed like a few hundred tests, scans and ultrasounds they found a whole lot of fluid on my abdomen, which is called ascites. They drained 4 plus liters of this fluid off of me and it felt like I had been living with a house on top of me once they took it off. I was in the hospital for 3 days and two nights, I missed Abby and Adam so much! They still don't know why the fluid build up happened, I will have a follow - up ultra sound this week to make sure things are as they should be. Please pray this is the last of my medical mysteries for a really long time and that I will continue to heal and get my strength back.

The one thing I know for sure is that God is good and he has been with me for the last 3 weeks, I don't know why I have had to deal with all of this but I know it has brought me to a new level with God and given me a re-newed appreciation for my family. I realized that I have the most amazing husband who can take care of our daughter and be at the hospital with me at the same time, he can do mid-night feedings, clean bottles, wash baby clothes and meet with the doctors to see what is wrong with me. I am Thanking God everyday for Adam and Abby and the family we are becoming, I Love them more than anything and I am learning that God loves us more than we know.

I really appreciate all of you who have prayed, watched Abby, brought over food, and just called to say HI! Our South Carolina family has really stepped up for us and we could not have done it without you!

Yes, I know Abby is two months old now!

2009-05-31T15:18:00.000-07:00

Needless to say with the last weeks events I have not gotten a post up yet, but I will! She is the joy of our lives, she changes daily and we simply cannot get enough of her.

Stay tuned for a two month post of our Sweet Pea.

Gall bladder, Who needs 'em?

2009-05-22T07:24:00.000-07:00

So here is another quick update......

Things do get better everyday as far as the surgery goes (Thank God!), my latest challenge is eating. Things just don't taste right and it hurts to digest food. Please pray specifically for eating as I need to eat more so I can "feed the baby" aka Abby. Also pray for Adam as he has gotten a cold and has to go back to work tomorrow, which also means I will be home with Abby by myself.

Thanks to Grandma Straw for helping us this last week, we were really sad to see her go home. There is nothing like having a mom around when you don't feel good and she sure took good care of us, especially me!

Another Update

Things are looking up today, I am more moble and have less pain than yesterday. Still hard to play and pick up Abby. The bruising is getting worse but that is how it will heal I am told. Thankfully Adam's mom is here to help with Abby and keep us fed. Yet again she saves the day, or week in this case! We would be up a crick with out her for sure. Thanks to all of you who have been praying for us, we do need your prayers. I go for my follow-up with the surgeon on friday. Hopefully in another few days I will feel like a new woman. :)

UPDATE

Well this is day three after the gall bladder has been taken out and I am still in a lot of pain, I am bruising and my belly is very swollen. Please continue to pray for a quicker recovery and less pain. Please also pray for Adam who is taking care of me and Abby, He is living on little sleep and keeping the family together. He is doing a GREAT job I might add!

Well, today at 1:30 eastern time I will be having my gall bladder taken out. I went to the ER Tuesday morning with chest pain and trouble breathing, turns out I was having a gall bladder attack. They took an x-ray, ultra sound, blood work and urine sample to find out I have gall stones and a UTI. Pain has been pretty bad the last few days, but that should all go away this afternoon, at least from the gall bladder, then I begin the recovery process from surgery. Good news is that the surgery is laproscopic, out patient, and there is no infection in the gall bladder. These should all add up to a quick recovery! Please keep me in your prayers today.

Great Grandpa and Grandma Mewhirter

2009-05-10T14:02:00.001-07:00

Great Grandpa and Grandma came from North Carolina to meet Abby this weekend, we had a really nice time and I think they just fell in love with her! Abby was such a good baby while they were here, I think they will be back soon. :)

Grandpa and Grandma Straw

2009-05-10T12:54:00.000-07:00

We were so lucky to have Adam's parents come and stay with us last week, they took care of us and Abby. Adam and I got some much needed rest and G & G got some good snuggle and playtime with Abby. Here are a few pics from our time with them....

First Date Night

2009-05-10T12:42:00.001-07:00

Adam and I went on our first date since Abby arrived while his parents were here for a visit. It was really hard to leave but we had such a good time and we knew that she was in good hands. We went to Ruth's Chris Steak House in downtown Columbia. Adam had steak and I had lamb, we enjoyed a nice bottle of wine from Oregon which brought back great memories of our time there this past summer, we topped off the evening with some chocolate sin cake. It can only be described as "AMAZING" in the word of my good friend Erin. Thanks Grandpa and Grandma Straw for watching Abby so we could celebrate on our own for the evening.

video clip mania

2009-05-06T13:48:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple videos of Abby that we took this weekend when Grandpa and Grandma Straw came for a visit. Abby really put on a show for them, she was moving and talking all weekend long.

The Swamp

2009-04-27T11:07:00.000-07:00

We took Abby on a big adventure Saturday. We loaded up and went to a swamp, Abby fell asleep on the way there, she is good at napping in the car.

The swamp has a board walk all around it, we put Abby in the stroller and off we went. It is 2.4 miles around the whole thing, not too far but far enough for me since I am still recovering from having the little sweet pea.

She started waking up to eat so we scoped out a good place to sit down and relax while Abby ate.

Turns out her meal was pretty good, so good in fact we had to change outfits if you know what I mean.

There were turtles swimming in the lake where we stopped to rest, and some cool fish but it was hard to take pictures of the fish.

Abby and the lake, look at that pot belly!

We made it home in time for dinner and to put the Abby to bed. It was a big outing for everyone, but nice to know that we can get out and do things with our girl!

Game Time, and Activity Mat

2009-04-16T10:22:00.001-07:00

Abby is three weeks old already, time is really flying by, here is how our week has gone so far.......

One of Abby and Adam's favorite pass times is watching sports together, Well Abby doesn't know they are watching sports but she loves hanging out with her daddy!

This was Abby's first play time on her activity mat, she fell asleep pretty quick as she got tired from all the stimulation.

Today was a crazy day, Abby had a lot of tummy problems and about the only thing that soothed her was the bouncy seat.

I took the mirror from her activity mat and held it up for her, she really enjoys looking in mirrors these days.

Today I got some pictures of her in motion on the mat, she really gets her arms and legs going, she can even kick the ball with her feet.

Sorry all the pictures have a paci in them, but when her tummy hurts she has to suck on something! What's a mom to do, pull out the paci for a picture, I think not!

Well off to sleep, I hope, we will try to post more pictures soon. Abby will be 4 weeks old on Saturday so stay tuned.

First Bottle and 2 week check-up

2009-04-16T10:22:00.000-07:00

Adam gave Abby her first bottle, daddy did a great job feeding her and she did a great job eating. She does not seem to mind having a bottle so long as she eats!

We went for Abby's 2 weeks check-up yesterday and she is growing like crazy, I really thought she would be 10 pounds but she was only 9 pounds 8 ounces. She loves to eat I tell you!

She is so much more alert these days, she likes sitting up and looking around the room. Bright lights and starring out the window are her two new pass times. I think we are going to get out her activity mat really soon.

Well off to do a couple chores before the sweet pea wakes up.........

2 weeks old already!

2009-04-14T10:11:00.000-07:00

We can't believe Abby is two weeks old already, it has gone by so fast. Adam had to go back to work yesterday and it was really hard. He wanted to stay at home with us and I was all on my own for the first time. I must say though Abby took it easy on me. I ate breakfast and lunch and got a shower, I drove Abby into Adam's work so his co-workers could meet her, it was only for an hour but it was a big adventure for us. I was tired by dinner time. We are trying to get into a routine, I try to get some "house work" done and nap while Abby takes a nap.

Abby is having more awake time during the day now, she likes to look at lights and sit up in your lap, it is so cool to see her personality develop more everyday.

We go to the doctor tomorrow for her two week check-up, I wonder how big she will be?

Well I am off to get some lunch and a cat nap. :)

Happy Birthday Daddy

2009-04-09T19:36:00.001-07:00

We made our first adventure out as a family for Adam's birthday yesterday. We went to a mexican place called Pedro's. Abby was an angel, she never woke up and we had a really nice dinner.

Hope you had a great birthday babe, Abby and I are glad we could celebrate as a family!

Thanks Grandpa Schaad and Uncle Nathan

2009-04-09T19:18:00.000-07:00

Grandpa Schaad and Uncle Nathan came to take care of us for a whole week, and boy did we need it! They went shopping for us, cleaned the house, and Grandpa cooked all of our meals. I am pretty sure that we would not have eaten if Grandpa had not been there. We are so glad that they could spend our first week home with us and get to know Abby.

Is that a proud Grandpa or what?

Doesn't Uncle Nathan look like a natural with babies?

Abby spent most of her time just like this with Grandpa, they were great snuggle buddies!

Grandpa and Uncle Nathan we would not have made it thru our first week home if you had not come and helped us, thanks for all your hard work! We have missed you this week, please come visit again soon!

Tummy Time

2009-04-08T14:30:00.000-07:00

Abigail got sick on Monday night so we took her to the doctor on Tuesday to be safe. She was 8 lbs 3.5 oz on our last doctor visit and we did not want to risk her being sick before she reached her birth weight. It turns out, that was not a concern. They weighed her at the doctor's office and she is 9 lbs even. That is 7 oz over her birth weight! They grow up so fast...

The doctor thinks it is most likely that Abby was sick because she was fed too much, so she cleared us to allow Abby to sleep up to 6 hours (we were waking her every three) between feedings. Mommy actually got 5 hours of continuous sleep last night. Wow!

The doctor also encouraged us to give her a little tummy time during the day to build her strength and use some energy so she will sleep at night. Check out the following pics and video proving just how big and strong she is.

First Bath

2009-04-02T19:48:00.001-07:00

Let's put it this way, Abby likes her bath until you put the water with it. HA!

She really hates the washcloth part, even if it is warm. I hope she gets over that soon, I hate hearing her cry.

First Diaper Change

2009-04-02T19:47:00.000-07:00

The nurses at the hospital were so efficient that we never had a baby with a dirty diaper, Adam had never changed a diaper before and was so excited when Abby finally gave him cause to change her. He did really well and I must say his skills have come along way in 6 days.

In the Hospital

2009-04-02T19:43:00.000-07:00

We were absolutely amazed once we had Abby in our arms, it was love at first sight! She is such a wonderful baby, with a really sweet personality.

We could look at her and hold her all day. She is a daddy's girl for sure, he can sooth her in a second.

The Dr. says she is perfect, we think so too. :)

Heading Home

2009-04-02T19:29:00.000-07:00

Here we are at the hospital getting Abby ready for her first car ride. Dressing her up was so much fun, until we realized that we had to put her in the car seat and drive her home.

She did not make a sound when we put her in the car seat, just snuggled in for the ride.

This nice lady wheeled Abby and I down to the car while daddy pulled up to get his girls.

I sat in the back to "watch" Abby since I thought she would be nervous this being her first ride and all, she never woke up, I was the nervous one.

Daddy was gripping the wheel at 10 and 2 to make sure that we made it home safe with our bundle of joy, good thing I was not allowed to drive, this was a lot of pressure, daddy did GREAT!

We made it home in one piece and Abby never knew we left the hospital. :)

Abby Loves Her Grandma Straw

2009-04-01T09:42:00.000-07:00

Looking lovingly into Grandma's eyes at the hospital...

Abby was very soothed with Grandma's whispers in her ear...

Grandma and Grandpa (Schaad) did a great job cleaning up the house prior to our arrival back home. This was Grandma's reward...

Last chance to cuddle before Grandma has to go home...

After Grandma left we dressed her up in one of our favorite outfits. It just so happens that this one is from Grandma too...

Grandma said it was an honor to be here. It was an honor and pleasure for us as well. She helped SO much...cooking, cleaning, shopping, dog watching, etc. She filled in for me when I was sick and could not be at the hospital and did so many other things. We could not have done this without you and it was so much more meaningful with you here. We had planned for her time here to be a little longer, but Abby was a little late in her arrival. We look forward to Grandma and Grandpa Straw coming back SOON for a visit.

Love you Grandma,

Adam, Angela, and Abby (AA&a)

Abigail's First Moments

2009-03-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

The before pictures :)

These two people don't know what they are getting themselves into...

Dr. Skinner with our new arrival

Are you looking at me?

Holding daddy's finger

Stretched out after getting cleaned up

First moments with Mom

We love these feet. She had just been foot printed, hence the black marks

First moments with Dad

First bath

Angela and Abby with our doula Jean

With G'ma

With G'pa