Grandpa Edward's 60th

This past Saturday we celebrated Darrel's Dad's 60th birthday.  We had a surprise party for him at his house in Owensboro, KY.  Darrel and I were in charge of the decorations and cakes.  Larry loves the Broncos, he is a true fan.  My first attempt at designing a cake, it was fun even though my fingers are still stained with food coloring.

Darrel's promotion

Darrel was promoted to First Sergeant, and we are so proud of him!  He loves the army and serving his country. Kendall, Grandma Beal, Uncle Brandon and I were there to support him.

Clapping after the ceremony was over!

Where does the time go?

I've been trying to post another blog for about 2 weeks now, but some little girl keeps me busy!  I do love watching her play.  At 9 months she started clapping her hands and playing peek-a-boo.  Kendall has always liked to cruise around our furniture or hold our hands to walk her, but now she's even using the walls to explore the house.  She will take a couple steps to Mommy, but she's not quite ready to walk by herself.  I'll be chasing her around this summer!

Army Wife

This past weekend we traveled to French Lick for a Leadership Conference for the Army National Guard.  Darrel, Kendall, Grandma and I went for the weekend.  We had fun exploring the huge hotel; Kendall especially liked walking the halls.  We got to go swimming, and Darrel and I attended a formal dinner.  We even got to have a few drinks with friends, which doesn't happy very often!  While it was a fun weekend, we also had briefings for the upcoming deployment.  I try not to dwell on the negative emotions of Darrel having to leave us, but sometimes I can't help but think of what he'll miss with Kendall.  The good news is that Darrel is getting ready to be promoted to First Sergeant, yay! 

Brandon

January 21st was the 2 year anniversary for my brother's lung transplant, "Uncle Brandon" as he's now known.  It is amazing how great he is doing, God gave him a second chance at life.  We celebrated with friends and family at Hooter's and Stoney's of all places.  We had fun though!

The Joys of Motherhood

Kendall is 8 1/2 months old, and her personality is shining.  Here's some thoughts on mommyhood:

Loves

-Getting hugs and kisses from my baby girl
-How Kendall's smile and laugh melt my heart
-Seeing her develop and make new strides-
  cruising around the furniture and using toys
  as walkers!
-Finally Kendall is napping without a fight (most days)

Things I do because I love her

-Wake up 2-3 times a night (or more) to feed her
-Wipe a runny nose with whatever is convenient
-Eat a dairy-free diet
-Act goofy just to make her smile

I absolutely love that I get to spend most days with Kendall.  She amazes me with all the things she learns everyday, just like every other mom!  I try to enjoy the age she is now and not look too far into the future, because I know she's going to grow up way too fast!

8 months and growing

Kendall had her 8 month pictures last week, and it hit me how fast she is growing.  Though, I do love seeing her reach her milestones and discover new things every day.  Last night she was taking steps just by holding onto the furniture with one hand.  She'll be cruising in no time!