Big news

Somehow I've missed posting some vital information. I've got to get my blogging back on track. In my defense, first trimester totally kicked my butt. Between working, chasing after a 2 year old, and growing a baby I was too exhausted to do much else.

Rest in Peace, Grandma

We got some very sad news last week. Unexpectedly my Grandma Meinders passed away peacefully in her sleep early Sunday morning, January 8.

I am so glad that Rachel, Ava and I went to visit her just a week before. I have some great memories growing up and as an adult with my Grandma. I always felt so blessed that my parents chose to stay living in Dumont so that I could form such wonderful relationships with my grandparents.

I have so many wonderful memories, its hard to list them all right now. I have been going through some pictures the past few days of her and it breaks my heart and makes me happy at the same time to see Ava recognize her as "Grammy" in the photos.

Our little family Christmas

Starting traditions is something that is very important to me. Because my grandparents lived so close and we didn't have to do much traveling over Christmas I was always able to wake up in my own home Christmas morning. This was my favorite time and I always looked forward to that day. I want that excitement for Ava and hope we can continue to let her wake up in her own house Christmas morning.

We invited my parents, Tyson and Rachel, and Josh over for cinnamon rolls and to watch Ava open her presents from us and Santa. We were all sitting around waiting for Sleeping Beauty to rise. Pretty funny how seven adults are on the schedule of the 2 year old. She runs the show!

Ava was very excited about every present and equally excited for Darren and me to open our present that she made for us at school. I heard "I made it!" all day long!

Unfortunately, later that evening I started feeling a little queasy and by 9 pm I had the full blown stomach flu. I was just thankful it hit me after our celebrating was done.