florida

Last night Isabelle and I arrived in Ft. Lauderdale, FL to spend some time with my parents this summer. I was terrified the whole day before we boarded the plane as I imagined myself being the mom with the screaming baby on board, but to my surprise Isabelle did really good on the 2 hour flight! She fell asleep on my shoulder before we took off and only had a crying fit for about 3 minutes before we landed. I was so relieved! I'm hoping the return flight will go just as smoothly. 

Our first day here consisted of exploring the area, my mom loving on her grand baby, and of course my mom trying to put some meat on my bones :) The rain kept us away from spending time at the beach, but I did snap a photo as we passed by.

Even though part of me is missing home already, I can't deny there are many perks that come with being under the same roof as my parents again. For one, I haven't had to wash any bottles or dishes so far! Also, it's been nice having my own personal chauffeur (mom). And of course it's always nice having eager hands to help out with Isabelle. She has really taken to her grandma and grandpa, which warms my heart :)

at the pool

this one just cracks me up. "ugh, no more hugs mom!"

Isabelle had her first experience at the pool today! Last summer she was too young for us to take her in, so I was excited to finally put a bathing suit on her and let her have her first feel for the pool. I know she looks pretty grumpy in some of these pictures, but she actually really enjoyed herself in the water. She was splashing and even tried to swim away from me a few times! Afterwards, she was eying the playground so we spent some time there too. I have no idea where this baby gets all of her energy from. This mama is pretty exhausted!

sweet baby niece

 

Already missing this cutie and her parents...too bad Hawaii is so far away!

this week, according to my iPhone

 

 

This week, my mom and step dad came in from Palm Beach, my little brother from Pensacola, and my big brother and his family from Honolulu (yeah we are all spread out)! It has been so nice getting to spend time with them all, as well as have a few extra hands to help out with Isabelle :) 

My niece Madison is just about 6 weeks old and SO adorable, as you can see! Strangely, holding this little newborn kind of scared me! It's crazy, but it seems like I already forgot what is was like to hold Isabelle when she was that young! Time really does just fly by...

I am going to be so sad when they all go back home to their FAR away cities, but I am so very thankful for the time I've been able to spend with my family.

Dear Isabelle

My baby girl,

I love the way you laugh when I brush your teeth. I love the way you walk up to me and plop yourself on my lap or give me a sweet hug. I love the way you give those slobbery wet kisses. I love the way you smile with those tiny teeth of yours. I love the way you squeal when you're excited. I love the way you trail behind me with your hurried baby steps. I love the way you smile when you feel the wind in your face. I love the way you lay your head on my shoulder when you're sleepy. I love the way you cling to me when you're scared or see someone new. I love the way you laugh when you look out the window and see the big kids playing outside. I love the way you can simply brighten my day when I'm sad. I just love you so much :)

Always,
Mom

the cheesecake factory

1. Isabelle cheesin' 2. amazing cheesecake display 3. my niece Madison 

4. my aunt with Madison 5. my brother holding Isabelle 6. Isabelle and I

Yesterday my big brother, his wife, and my 4 week old niece Madison arrived all the way from Honolulu to visit! It was so great seeing them all and finally getting to meet baby Madison! We went to dinner at the Cheesecake Factory which was quite the adventure. Let's just say I was that mom getting those stares and who had to take an angry baby outside every few minutes. Isabelle was just not having it last night! But at least I did get to scarf down my food and take a bite of strawberry shortcake before having to leave for home early.

It's been one of the toughest weeks I've ever had, but getting to see my big brother and his family was definitely something to be grateful for. They left this morning to visit some other family in Arkansas and Dallas, but they'll be back in a week and I can't wait!

11 months

Isabelle is 11 months today!

These days she is walking and running. She enjoys chunking objects as far as she can. She tells us, "no no!" She has 8 teeth. She likes her cheese, yogurt, and bananas. She is getting pretty good with the sippy cup and just today learned how to drink from a straw. Her favorite toys usually include anything not intended to be a toy. She has stranger anxiety and will cry when mommy or daddy leaves the room. Our doctor and dentist note that she has a great pair of lungs :) She is smart and assertive. She notices when mommy tries to hide her iPhone and will try looking for it. Of course she still has the cutest grin!

I love my little troublemaker :)