Blind dates and birthday parties

This weekend we went to a birthday party for Charlotte and Carter. I met Jordan, their Mommy through JR League. We had a blind lunch date about a month ago. I know that sounds funny but we literally had never met before and had only spoken through email. I am so thankful the date went well ;) We have had fun meeting up at the Children's Museum and seeing, "The Help" kid free! I am looking forward to starting JR league together and more play dates. Charlotte turned 1 and Carter turned 3. Sidney had a great time at the party, which was at the Nature Discovery Center. She loved the bunny and of course the lemonade and cupcake! We realized it was her first time drinking lemonade. She slurped it down!

Sweet girls

Sidney moving in on more cupcake!

The girls look thrilled. This was our best attempt with both looking.

Tasty lemonade!

Happy birthday Charlotte and Carter! Thanks for having us.

15 Months

Now-15 months old!

then- August last year

My baby is so big! She is my little buddy and we have so much fun. She is more active than ever. She loves filling up her purses from anything she can find around the house. She is starting to dance and loves listening to music. She still LOVES books and has an amazing attention span when listening to them. She has taken an interest in her baby dolls but Elmo is still her fav. Her favorite food is now applesauce and grilled cheese sandwich. This month was exciting because we took her to the beach for the first time, which I will post about later.

We went to our new pediatrician for Sidney's 15 month old checkup. I wish I could tell you what the Dr said but I have no clue.I was deafened by Sidney's crying and could not focus on anything! As soon as we walked into the office she started clinging to me, grabbing my hair, holding on for dear life and screaming. It was as if she knew what was coming! She did not calm down until after the shots and blood work. I think she had worn herself out from the tantrum! Daddy was able to come at the end of the appointment and meet the Dr. She was calm by then of course. She never acts up for Daddy! We had a good report and are so thankful for a very healthy baby. She is still in the high percentile for height and low for weight. She is still only 22 pounds! Crazy for a 9 pounder at birth.

reading with Daddy

little grump

looking at her battle wounds

out cold before we pulled out of the parking lot

On a side note I get so excited to see all the Pi Phi stuff at Texas Children's. Every book in the HUGE hospital and all of the doctor's offices was donated by the Houston Alum Club and directly from links to literacy from various chapters. They have these cute little pi phi "book nooks" everywhere. I tried to take a picture of the book nook itself but I was wrestling a cranky toddler.

What's for Dinner?

I have a confession. I am addicted to the blog "Kelly's Korner."I love reading it and I especially love her "Show Us Your Life" section. I noticed that she used to have a recipe blog. I clicked on the link and found several great ideas to try. We tried this one last week and it was EASY and TASTY! Thank you Kelly and I wish you were still doing your recipe blog.

Lemon Chicken with Green Beans and New Potatoes

click here for recipe!

Back to School Idea-Gift for Teacher

I can't believe it's time for back to school already! For me this year nothing is changing, which I am very thankful for. Since Sidney has had separation anxiety lately I can't imagine having to leave her at a new place. I do plan to have more of a routine and schedule around our house though. We now have our set activities and are getting some what used to Craig's CRAZY hours. On Tuesday we have Bible Study. It's a group of mom's all with young children. Half of the time we end up just talking and it's great! Sidney goes into the Kingdom Kids Nursery and she is starting to enjoy it and play with the other kids. Wednesday we have our play group. There are about 12 girls and we take turns hosting. So far we are meeting lots of nice people! Thursday we have Song Play, which will be starting next month. It's at church also so Sidney is really starting to recognize some familiar faces. So, that leaves Monday and Friday open. Those days usually turn into pool days or play dates. So with all that business I guess that's why I can't believe it's mid August!

I saw this idea at Keeping Life Creative. Even though my little one is not in school yet, I thought this was adorable. Being a former teacher I would have really appreciated this cute gesture!

First Day of School Survival Kits

These boots are made for walking

and that's just what they'll do

and one of these days these boots are gonna

walk all over you!

All Aboard!

We took Sidney to Herman Park for her first train ride! She seemed very excited when she saw the train. Once we got on she was not sure what to think. She started pointing to trees, ducks and of course her favorite, cars! Despite it being 200 degrees she had a blast! Herman Park is right behind the Texas Medical Center aka "Dada's work." The Houston Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theater and several museums are also in the park. In true Texas style, it's huge! It has some very pretty areas. We are looking forward to going back when it cools off.

This to shall pass...

Paging my happy baby...please come back!

Sidney has been such an easy baby. Until now. I am not sure if it's from being around me and only me lately or just her age. She won't let go of my leg, panics when I leave the room, won't stop crying in the nursery at church AND acts crazy when other children even approach her. After several attempts at church I just wanted to break down and cry. I wanted to give up. I know that's not the answer. I don't know what is but I just have to keep trying. Ugh! So frustrating to see her so sad! I wish there was something I could do to make it better quick!

Paper Coterie

I am so glad I discovered this site! Right now until August 31 you get a 40.00 credit! Use the code "BEGINANYWHERE." A great way to make easy albums or gifts!

I love the swatch books....

Two years ago today I married the love of my life.

A sweet baby girl later...

and a journey to a faraway place..

I love you even more than on our wedding day! Happy 2nd anniversary. Can't wait for more memories.

More wedding pics here and the article from Southern Weddings Magazine.