Kennedy's First Birthday!

Our little Kennedy turned the big O-N-E on June 26.







We had a ladybug-themed party at our house. We like to keep the first birthday small, so we just invited our HUGE family (there is no small amount of family here!) and a few family-like friends. The kids played in the wading pool and splash pad; we had a little picnic, lots of gifts, some cake, and a lot of fun.

She wasn't too sure about her cake or the party hat! With a little help from her daddy and big sister, she realized the cake is yummy. As for the party hat....it was toast!



Cute swimsuit to match her theme! Thanks, Tiff, for letting us borrow it!! :)

Opening gifts. She realllly loves this ball. She also loved the ladybug balloon her grandparents got for her. Unfortunately, it made a quick escape to the heavens. Sad, sad, sad!



We've really enjoyed her first year. Kennedy has such an easy-going and kind personality. She's a very fun little girl.....and at the same time, she's quite wild! :)

Jordyn's a Star!

On June 13, Jordyn ended her year of ballet and tap lessons with a huge recital at the INB Performing Arts Center. Apparently, I don't have any still shots (because I was backstage and daddy was left with Kennedy and the video camera), but it was such a cute performance. All the tiny kids stand on the stage, with the teachers on the sides behind the curtains, and the whole time the kids are looking to the sides copying the teachers. Everyone in the audience just "oohs and aahhhs" and giggles. It is the sweeeeeetest thing. She was pretty hesitant to go on stage during rehearsal--good thing they have one! After watching the other classes, her teacher, and with the encouragement of her friends, she decided she would dance, too. She did it with such enthusiasm. Her parents/family could not have been prouder. She made me so emotional. I always made fun of my mother and rolled my eyes at her for this exact reaction. Now she probably laughs at me. I guess these are the things you can never truly understand until you are a mother. Jordyn's dancing brought back a lot of great memories. Especially since she danced at the same studio that I did as a kid/young adult. She had fun, but has decided to give soccer a kick (okay, cheesy--sorry!). Kennedy was mesmerized by the performance, so maybe she'll be the dancer of the family. I will never push my love of things on my kids, so if neither does no biggie! I'm not saying I'm not a bit hopeful, though! :)