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 :)

the weekend

once in a blue moon

a few instagrams:

Isabelle playing the piano

Yesterday we went to my aunt's house where they have a piano, and Isabelle loved playing on it and hearing the music. She sat on the bench and just played for about 5 minutes. Here's a little clip. The excited squealing around 17 seconds is especially cute :) Definitely starting her up on piano lessons in the future!

Isabelle walking!

I love seeing her getting the hang of walking! Proud mom :)