Ballet

I have lots to blog about, but first I have to play catch up from the few weeks before Christmas in order to start on the rather large Christmas post. Abby's ballet recital was on December the 8th, and precious to say the least. She has been taking once a week for thirty minutes since last January. We have come leaps and bounds from our first day at ballet. Thankfully, we have a very patient and very sweet teacher that helped Abby become more comfortable. She loves it now, and I love the moms that I have become close to as well. Next semester starts a ballet/tap combo that last 45 minutes instead 30. Here is our little ballerina in training over the past year.

Almost a year ago. Admiring her new ballet shoes.

Abby's first ever ballet class.

This was from our last ballet recital in May where sweet Ms. Janice had to hold Abby and Grandmommy helped coax her into performing

Playing with her friends on the last day of class

For this last recital she did great- went on stage and did the routine just like everyone else. We were so proud of her!

We celebrated at Houston's with a massive plate of french fries and ice cream.

So proud of you Abby!

Christmas Card Pictures-

You may remember from last year, but Abby went through a phase right around Christmas time where she refused to have her picture taken, which in return, created quite a bit of holiday stress trying to find the "perfect" Christmas card picture. Well, the "happy face" is back right around the time to kick of the Holiday season. This face only comes out when she sees me reaching for my camera or when I ask her to hold Charlie. To say she is over it is an absolute understatement. Here are few lovely shots from the many Christmas card photo shoots.

This was from last year...

Just a few attempts from this year...

How funny is this? She is so mad at me!

After lots of begging, pleading, and bribing, we got Abby and Charlie to sit and smile for the camera-- one of the most under estimated task out there. This is NOT our Christmas card picture; however more of a teaser picture. The real one will be out soon.

Merry Christmas Everyone!!!!

Charlie's Baptism

We had Charlie's baptism on December 1st at Immaculate Conception Church. Charlie was baptized in the same church by the same Priest that married me and Brandon, and later baptized Abby; Father Val really is very sweet to us despite our less than perfect church going track record (It's at the top of the list for 2013). The man of the hour did a great job. Not a whimper, whine or tear for the whole event. But really, Charlie just goes with the flow. He wore Abby's Baptismal gown, and to everyone's surprise, fit into it nicely despite his ever expanding waist line. He looked precious on his big day.

What a great day!

Thanksgiving

I love this day. No presents, no hustle and bustle, just food and family.

Thanksgiving morning watching the parade

Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!

GIrls Day Out...

Last week Abby and I had a day out with just us girls. We needed this time together desperately. We had a lot of fun getting our nails done, grabbing some lunch, and having some ice cream.

This really is the best way to spend $3!

Eating some lunch at Bronte.

Enjoying our Sweet CeCe's ice cream

Getting up to dance!

What a mess!

November, thus far-

For some reason, November has absolutely flown by! Wish it would all slow down for just a second, but I think it is only going to go by faster. Charlie is almost 6 months old, is rolling over and is very close to sitting up on his own. He is still sleeping through the night, but will cry out once or twice when he loses his paci. Abby is quite the little social butterfly these days. We have toured several school, had lots of play dates, and have tried not to let the time change interfere with playing outside. Here is a picture recap:

Charlie has officially outgrown his baby bath

is developing a sweet personality,

and a cute little smirk.

Charlie has also developed eczema on his face. His cheeks will turn bright red and bumpy, but will get better and then worse again as the day goes on. We talked with the Pediatrician, have switched all soaps, cleaners, lotions, and detergents to "free and clear," and can tell a significant difference. Hoping that this will nip it in the bud.

Charlie has begun teething, and sought relief in his teether, Sophie, the giraffe

Apparently Abby is teething, too

Abby loves her brother,

and Charlie loves his sister

Abby is "reading" like crazy,

and Mommy got her workout in! (with our neighbor, Field)

Nothing like watching Minnie's Bowtique while playing with your Minnie Mouse balloon

We have been touring schools this last week and have a lot to think about it! Here is Abby at one of the open house play date.

I think she loved it!

Brandon and I celebrated our 5 year anniversary this past weekend. Cannot believe we have been married for 5 years and have 2 kids! We went to Iris and enjoyed one of the best meals I think I have ever had.

This was the surf 'n turf: a steak stuffed with friend oysters and topped with blue cheese- wow!

The most amazing bread pudding I have ever had!

What a great month its been!