Happy Birthday, Our Little Miracle!

My sweet, Olivia:
It's so hard to believe it has been four years since your daddy and I drove to the hospital, expecting your arrival. We could hardly wait to meet you. However, you weren't quite ready to join us in this world. Your daddy and I got to the hospital bright and early the morning of September 19th, 2007. Our whole family anxiously awaited news of your birth. But, it wasn't until many hours later, you decided you were ready to meet us. It was 5:27pm on September 20th we got to finally see you face-to-face. I got a quick glimpse of your head full of hair as the doctors whisked you away. Although you endured a lot throughout the next few months, you did it on your own terms, just like when you were born. You have remained that same feisty, determined little girl up until today. Your family could not be more proud to have you in our lives. You have touched so many hearts with your smile, your contagious laughter, and your wit. You prove to us each day that there really are miracles and that one person truly can make a difference in the lives of so many others. You have grown into such a smart, kind, beautiful young lady, Olivia. Just the other day you told me that since you were turning four, you'd be able to drive my car. I told you it would be more like 14 years old before you got to do that. Your reply was, “Well, I can at least drive daddy's boat when I'm four!” You make me smile everyday and I could not be more proud to be your mom. Happy Birthday, sweetheart!















On Saturday we had Olivia's birthday party here at the house. It was a great time spent with the star of the show and our family and friends. I think I'll let the pictures do the talking, they always do it best!







































Yesterday I took Olivia to my hairdresser where she got her very first haircut and a mani-pedi! She did start to tear up when Jenni first combed through her curly locks, but once that was over she enjoyed it. I told her it is a very special thing for a girl to go to the beauty parlor!










Another wish has come true for Olivia.








That's right, she has been granted her Make-A-Wish! We will be leaving on December 2nd for our trip to Disneyworld!


We are so blessed to have Olivia in our lives, she is a true miracle and we thank God for her each day. We also thank God for all of you by our side. Thank you for sharing in this special day for Olivia and keeping us in your thoughts and prayers.

The kiddos ended up with a pretty nasty cold, which I think was a result of their allergies. I know I have been feeling the effects as well as some other family members. The pollen count has been high lately. We seem to be at the tail end of things as the runny noses have slowed down. The cough has gotten worse though. At least they are both starting to sleep better. For a few days Thomas was waking up 6-7 times a night and Livi 2-3 times. Steve and I are tired! As for the other issues Olivia has been having, they are still there. Her vomiting has increased the last few days, but her output seems a bit better. I was supposed to bring Olivia back to cardiology this week if things were the same. I can't decide what to do. One day she seems ok, the next she's tired, pukey, and out-of-breath. Please continue to keep the kids in your prayers.


A few weeks ago Nordstrom had their annual picnic in Cedar Rapids. Gram invited Aunt Lisa and us to go with her this year. It was at Usher's Ferry and it was amazing. The food, bouncy rides, train rides, and looking at all the historical buildings. It was a lot of fun for all of us! They also had free face painting and they were very intricate designs. But, after waiting in line for 40 minutes and still having 4 people in front of us, we called it quits. We still had a blast doing other things.






















Thomas is turning into a little stinker ! Once this kid gets walking, I will never sit down. He already has me up and chasing after him constantly. He is still a sweet, happy, laid-back baby...he is just into EVERYTHING!



Instead of using the door to this playhouse, Tom will just fling himself over the wall!


You tell this kid no and he just smiles....

Thomas is starting to put more sounds together. He will look at me and say, “Mama.” He also says, “Dada” “more” and “Num.” Although, he doesn't always say these on a consistent basis. Thomas is the fastest crawler I have ever seen. He's faster than Livi at crawling right now! He walks all along the furniture and he has also taken two steps unassisted! Mama's big boy!






On Sunday night we took advantage of the cooler weather and had a fire out back. Steve went to the store to get Graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows and we had our first family smores night! I couldn't remember the last time I had a real smore. It was great!




Marshmallow face!

On Monday MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) had their annual kick off. The kids and I went and enjoyed carnival games and snacks. I have been in MOPS before, but this is the first time I've taken the kids with. Olivia loved it.








Believe it or not, yesterday was Olivia's first day of preschool. I am in disbelief myself. Our big girl! I went into work a little late and took Liv to her first day of school. I couldn't wait to rush home at lunch to hear all about it! However, this Little Miss isn't giving me any details! She told me she had fun and she went down the big slide. Her teacher told Gram during prayer she made sure to include the horses she loves so much. Ha. Too cute!







“Bye, Mom! You can leave now!”