Almost 2!!!

Ruthie is ALMOST Two!!!

We celebrated Ruthie's 2nd Birthday in New Bern, NC with all her wonderful aunts and uncles, Gaga and Opa and her favorite cousin: Miles. She had so much fun celebrating! Ruthie helped bake her birthday cake and had fun decorating it with me. She especially LOVED eating the sprinkles off the top and eating her piece of cake with her special icecream she requested.

Lots of fun these last few weeks. We went to New Bern, North Carolina for Thanksgiving. We had such a wonderful, relaxing time... although, Ruthie decided that she was over the whole "nap" thing and learned how to get out of her pack-n-play!! Crazy!! Heather and I were enjoying a peaceful afternoon with the babes safe and "sleeping" in their pack-n-plays when we heard a noise and the sound of a doorknob turning. I really thought we were hearing things because it wasn't possible that either Miles or Ruthie would be making that noise, but we decided we better check just incase. Heather and I walked down the hallway (heard nothing), opened the door to my bedroom and there was Ruthie, standing by the door, shoes in hand, greeting us with "Good Morning!" I did what every "normal"mom would do- I screamed and jumped! I couldn't (still can't) believe Ruthie got out of her pack-n-play!

(Ruthie striking a pose on Thanksgiving!)

We had such a great time! We spent the first few days relaxing and having one on one time with Gaga and Opa. On Monday, Opa took Ruthie (and her parents) (mommy's request) to the Chelsea. I was really craving some Butternut Squash soup, but they didn't have any. We had a great time and Ruthie loved having lunch with her Opa. Ruthie went to Gaga's school on Tuesday for a Thanksgiving Feast. She absolutely loved going to Gaga's school. After we all finished eating, Ruthie went back with Gaga to her classroom and helped herself to a desk and some crayons and colored pencils. Ruthie had a great time hanging out with her Gaga and Opa. She learned some new songs (Wheels on the Bus) and continued enjoying some older classics (Sunshine on my Shoulders)

(Ruthie and her daddy enjoying a snuggle after raking the leaves)

Tuesday night Auntie H, Uncle Nat, and Miles got into town! We were all very excited to see them. Wednesday we decided to go to the beach! Miles had never been there and the weather was absolutely gorgeous and we didn't want to miss a great opportunity. I think we all agreed- we were happy we made the trip. It was a wonderful time shared by all! Miles loved the sand and Ruthie, well... she loved the water! (Pictured below) I came prepared with an extra change of clothes incase she got "wet" but I definitely didn't think she was going to run into the water and play in the water acting as if it was a normal summer day! Great great day!

(Ruthie loving the water at the Ocean)

Thanksgiving Day we got up, had some breakfast, and headed out to the Pier to swing and take a walk down by the River. Ruthie and Miles had such a great time. (so did all the adults) We spent the afternoon relaxing and getting ready for Thanksgiving Dinner. Auntie Kristen and Uncle Andrew arrived around 5:30pm that evening and we all enjoyed a nice dinner. It was so nice to have some time together as a family with absolutely nothing on the schedule.
On Friday- the guys went out to play a game of golf and the ladies and kiddos went out shopping and out to eat. Again, we celebrated Ruthie's 2nd Birthday Friday evening and Ruthie had a blast opening gifts and hanging out with her family! Saturday, we were sad to pack up and head home- but this was definitely a Thanksgiving we'll all remember!!

(Ruthie and Miles looking at the ducks)

(Ruthie and Miles playing by themselves back the hallway)
(Until Mommy's came back to check on them!)

Thanksgiving is a time of to reflect and give thanks for all we've been given.
This Thanksgiving- I am so thankful for such a wonderful family. Jon and I truly blessed with amazing parents and the best brothers and sisters. I also give thanks for such a wonderful daughter and the best nephew!

Some happy news!! I had my ultrasound and diabetes test on Monday. The ultrasound revealed that my placenta has moved up and far away from my cervix which means I am free again to picture and plan a natural childbirth which brings me such joy!

Little boy/girl Stube is healthy and growing well. So thankful for such a wonderful pregnancy.

Dear Ruthie,
I love you so much sweet little girl. I can't believe that at the end of this week you'll be two! I don't know if you'll remember all the fun we've had in the last month preparing for you big birthday party. We have gone to many stores buying fun Hello Kitty supplies which you are so excited for. I can't wait to go pick out balloons with you on Friday and then make your cake and finish up those last minute touches. :) I know you're going to have a great time with your friends and family! You are such a happy child and I hope that you know that you make your mommy and daddy very happy. We love watching you sing and dance and now play pretend!

Love you Ruthie Mackenzie

Mommy