Happy Birthday, Kelley!

We celebrated Kelley's birthday today.  Kelley is the best sister I could have ever asked for. She is 3 years older than so it wasn't really until college that we actually began to become friends. I've always thought she was so cool-way cooler than me. She is so smart, witty, a great writer, super crafty, artistic, an awesome mom, and incredibly thoughtful.  One of Kelley's talents is that she gives really good gifts. I have always admired this about her and wish I could be more like her in this way.  She has given me so many thoughtful gifts, especially since I've had a baby. So, when she asked me to make her birthday cake, I had to say yes, especially since the last time she asked me it didn't turn out so well. See below.

What it was supposed to look like.

How it turned out. I mean seriously, what is that?

So, clearly I had to redeem myself. I think it turned out much better this time and was quite tasty.

Happy Birthday, Kelley!

Cuddle Time

Ruthie has started to put her head down on our shoulders when she is tired. She hasn't done this since she was itty bitty and it is the best. I have missed it.

This is how I found the two of them after my run one day last week. *Note: this is a completely candid shot. I know. Adorable.

Life Saver

Several weeks ago I developed an intense fear that something bad was going to happen to Ruthie while she was sleeping. So intense that I would check on her numerous times during the night, which obviously interfered with my already inconsistent sleep schedule. I couldn't get any rest. I stressed when she wouldn't go to sleep and then I would get anxious once she was finally asleep.

After 2 particularly difficult nights which resulted in me inadvertently waking Ruthie up numerous times during the night, Wade decided enough was enough! (and I agreed, but I couldn't help myself) One evening Wade surprised me with a video monitor! It was THE BEST surprise. If you had asked me what I thought about video monitors before I had a baby I would have said they were a complete waste of money, but now I will tell you it has made all the difference. Now, I still the monitor several times, but it doesn't disturb her and I am able to rest a little better if I can just glance at it and make sure she is still breathing. Wade is the best!

Happy Times

One of my favorite times of day is in the morning after Ruthie wakes up and before Wade goes to work. Here's a little picture of Wade reading to Ruthie one morning last week. There are few things that make me happier than seeing the two of them together.