Two!

We had a very eventful few days leading up to Annabelle's birthday celebration. Horrible tornados and storms went through our state on Wednesday. Luckily, the only damage at our house was the loss of power...actually, the entire county lost power. After one night with candles and a latern and hearing that it would be about 5 days until we got power back, we decided to pack up and head to my parent's house. It ended up being a great decision because power didn't come back on until Monday at our house, and Jesse's work is just opening back up tomorrow! We have learned a lot about things we will do in the future to be prepared for an emergency like that - the gas and grocery shortages were a little crazy! Thankfully, 5 days at with my parents was like an unplanned vacation.



We had Annabelle's birthday planned for that Saturday, so we just decided to go ahead with a little family celebration at my parent's home since we had been talking to her about her birthday all week! She was extremely excited about cake and party hats!

Our precious birthday girl!

There are just no words for how much I love this child.

Such a special day with Nana and Grandad!

Loving play time with Jimmy and Ellen! They got her princess dress up clothes and a magic wand - she was thrilled!

Jesse and I had the best time trying to figure out how to make a monkey cake...there was a detailed sketch (Jesse's), lots of cake carving, and lots of icing! We have decided that this will be our new "night before the kiddo's birthdays" tradition!

Saying "eat cake", "eat cake"!

Finally! Piece 1 of 2!

Golf playing princess!

Fun for the big kids, too!

The newest member of our family - this doll has been everywhere with us this week!

This is exactly how I will remember my girl on her birthday - party hat, tutu, baby doll and her new tricycle!

Annabelle,
Happy Birthday, sweet pea! I have trouble comprehending that we have had you in our family for two years now. It feels like weeks ago that we brought our tiny new infant home, and it feels like we have known you forever. I just cannot even begin to put words how much you love, joy, laughter, and fun you bring to our lives!