Maddie's Going to Be a Big Sister!

It's official...we're having another baby! Jesse and I are thrilled. We are so thankful to the Lord, because we know He is the One who opens the womb. I'm about 6 weeks along, which makes the due date around November 19. At our doctor's appointment today we were able to see this mini human- about the size of a jellybean, with little arms and legs already sprouting! Its tiny heart was beating so fast! What a joy it was to see and hear this new life!

Here's Maddie showing you the size of her little brother or sister:

Cousins...Part 2

Last week we went to get pictures taken of the cousins at Picture People. Here are the photos I took before we left.

If you want to see the professional ones go here.

After pictures the girls rode the carousel.

My sister is beautiful!

Maddie LOVES pasta, can you tell?!

The next day we went to Melissa's in-law's new house. It's in Agua Dulce, and it's my dream home! Charis loved playing pretend in the big backyard.

Maddie really wanted to ride the horse.

Everyone enjoyed the swing.

Charis looks just like her Grandma!

Emma loved the ride.

I think Maddie must have eaten 8 strawberries for lunch that day!

The day after Grandma's, we drove down to Santa Monica Beach. The girls had a ton of fun in the sand.

We miss you already Aunt Melissa, Charis, and Emma! Thank you for coming out- it was fun to play for the last two weeks. Love you!

Cousins

My sister and her kids have taken a full 2 weeks vacation here in CA. It's been so much fun to see the little girls play together. Here's a few pictures of what we've done the first week. The second week is still in the works!

All aboard!

They loved the trains at Griffith Park.

Little boxcar children.

Emma loves mothering her dolls.

So, now does Maddie.

Eating cookies and watching a movie.

Olvera Street excursion.

Look at all that pink.

We ate a yummy Mexican lunch in the park.

Nothing like eating on the run (with some help)!

A little "hike" (not a real one for adults, but definitely for little legs). Jesse had Mercy (the Smiths joined us) on his back, and Maddie in the front for a bit.

Mondays with Rachel

It's a joy meeting with Rachel on Monday mornings! She is a blessing to our family, our Bible Study, and pretty much everyone she knows. She has such a kind, teachable, heart and loves to serve. This last Monday she showed up with a bouquet of beautiful daffodils, a chai tea latte, and her camera. Madison and I were spoiled! After having breakfast, making some peanut butter bars, and talking; we headed to the park where she took beautiful pictures of the Smith's kids and Maddie. Go here if you'd like to view her work. Thank you, Rachel!

We love you Grandpa!

Two days ago Jesse's dad had double knee replacement surgery. We are so thankful that all went well, and that he's already walking a bit. Here is a blog post dedicated to make you smile, Grandpa...

Grandpa, I was thinking about you today at the train park-

I know you like trains.

There were so many fun trains, so I ran to see each one. All day I said, "choo choo".

Then I ate a few chips and got my energy back.

Here's my best pose for you.

(She actually just laid down there- not sure why :)

I love you Grandpa, and hope you feel better soon! Next time you come to CA, I want to take you and your new knees to the train park!

A Few of Madison's Favorite's Lately...

Papa is one of Maddie's favorites..she dances and jumps up and down every time she sees him. And when we're not with him, she repeats his name over and over. So precious!

Hair bows are another favorite. The more, the better!

Going outside....and bringing all of our favorites with us (purse, dog, blanket, and bus)!

This is what happens when there's too many favorites to carry! She actually only took the purse out, the rest stayed home.

Pretty shoes (little girl high heels) are a fav. These were actually my niece's shoes that she wore in Jesse and my wedding 3 1/2 years ago! Maddie definitely prefers these to any other shoes, and likes to wear them all the time (even with jeans and sweats).

Books and babies!

We were so glad to spend a day with my dear friend, Leslie, while they were visiting for Shepherd's Conference. It's so fun to see Leslie as a mom. Charlotte is adorable!!!