Memorial Day

I know Renee is going to kill me for putting this picture in here but its a memory. The day started out with David, Chris, Valerie and I waiting while Renee ran a 5K race. It was a benefit for children of Fallen Heroes. I do not remember her time but I was just so proud of her efforts. Valerie was just happy to see her mommy.

Then she got to go swimming. If swimming is involved, Valerie is happy.

Valerie's First Swim

We took Valerie for her first swim today. She LOVED it! She is usually very cautious (scared) of new things. But not swimming. She showed no fear. She kicked her feet and wanted more. She keep trying to blow bubbles.

We are going to have to watch this fearless little swim baby very carefully.

Ranger Game 2010

We took the family to the Ranger Game today. It was really hot but we somehow ended up with seats that were in the shade the whole time. There was a cool breeze and it was a really relaxing fun family time. My sweet family.

Valerie had fun watching all the people and being held by the whole family.

Julia loved eating ice cream and watching the players with her "nockulars."

First Summer Swim

Julia spent the night with us tonight while her mom and dad went out. We had our first summer swim ... well kinda. She stayed in the spa pool and in a little plastic pool we have for her and Valerie.

We had a blast swimming, eating pizza picnic style outside and playing memory her favorite game. You would not believe how she beats me every time.

How Big is Valerie?

Valerie spent the night with us Friday night while her mom and dad went out. She is not walking but loves to ride on this little riding horse. We say "How big is Valerie" and she throws her hands up. I thought I would never get her out of this swing.

Valerie is SOOO BIG!

Great Grandparents 55th Anniversary

We celebrated Valerie and Julia's Great Grandparents 55th anniversary tonight. Happy anniversary Mom and Dad!

Valerie's First Birthday Party

Valerie had her one year old party yesterday. It was a Strawberry Shortcake theme. The whole family. It is a little hard to see in this picture but they are all wearing strawberry sunglasses.

First you need to see this fabulous Strawberry Shortcake Cake Renee made. Didn't she do a good job? Click here to see the process.

It was a beautiful day and the decorations were fabulous. Renee went all out with the details.

Chris was in charge of the grilling and did a fabulous job. He grilled sliders and hot dogs. Everyone loved them.

The food that we could not get enough of was the marshmallow pops. They were so yummy!

Even Valerie loved them.

Everyone sang Happy Birthday to the birthday girl.

She was not into the smash cake. I think she does not like getting dirty.

Valerie's Lauren, Great-Grandmother, Aunt Elizabeth and Kristin arrived in birthday shirts. Their shirt says Happy First Birthday Valerie and they are wearing strawberry glasses.

It was a great Party, Renee and Chris. Valerie is lucky to have yall for parents.

Happy 1st Birthday Valerie

Valerie is One Year Old today. I am having a hard time wrapping my mind around her being one year old. I remember when she was one day, two days, even 3 months old, I would think enjoy this because it goes so fast and boy does it. I really just can not believe she is a year old. I know I enjoyed it but why did it have to go so fast.


Chris and Renee took Valerie to the Zoo today and then we meet them at Abuelos for Valerie Birthday / Mother's Day celebration. We had such a great time. Her birthday party will be on Saturday.

David and I played the role of "Dorky Grandparents" tonight and wore our "Team Valerie" tee shirts that we wore in the hospital on the day she was born. It was just such a happy time I wanted to relive it.

Never to Young for Service

Julia went to the post office with me to help me mail 48 boxes to College Students from Campus Angels Ministry. She was so funny. At first she carried only one box to throw in the big wagon. Then she figured out she could carry two and was so proud of herself. She keep wanting to do it all by herself. She definitely did not understand she was doing something for others. She just knew she was having fun. I agree with her doing something for others is very fun.