Everything & More

We had such a great Christmas!  It was everything I hoped it would be and more!  We had such a fun day, and I think I had so much fun just watching Kenley all day.  She was having the time of her life and didn't miss a moment!  We started out Christmas Eve night going to Klaus resturaunt with my Mom's side of the family. It was fun seeing my cousins, and really nice that we had a private room so Kenley could crawl around.  When we got home we prepared our milk and cookies for Santa and made sure everything was ready for his big arrival!  (oh ya, and Ray had to wrap presents last minute)

We wondered what time Kenley would be up and were pretty surprised that we were up before her!  Ray was so excited that he couldn't wait any longer so we woke her up around 7:30.  It was so fun to watch her actually pull things out of her stockings and play with the toys she got.  I was excited to finally give Ray his I-pad, and I don't think he has put it down yet!  I was spolied by Ray and got a beautiful grey Coach purse, pjs, perfume, and a gumball machine, among other gifts. 

Then we got ready and headed to my mom and dad's house.  We had brunch with my dad's side of the family and opened a ton of gifts!  Then, we went to Ray's mom's house for dinner and opened more gifts!  We all got really nice gifts, and Kenley was so spoiled by all of her family members.  She was having a blast playing around with everyone and checking out all her new toys!  I can't even begin to list what she got, but let's just say our family room looks like Toy's R Us right now. 

It was really one of the best holidays that I can remember, and I think it was because I was just able to relax and have fun.  I just loved watching everyone watch Kenley and it made me happy knowing she was having so much fun.  We are so lucky to have our families close by so that we can celebrate with everyone!  Now, on to enjoying the rest of the week and start finding room for all these toys!

I didn't take a ton of pictures on Christmas because once we were with the families I was too caught up having fun, but here are a few from Christmas Eve and the morning.

      

   

The nice list

So, I think I am FINALLY done shopping!  I think that I have thought I was done for the last 2 weeks, but then I would always think of something I forgot to get, or one little thing here and there that I I had to pick up.  All that is left to do is finish wrapping.  I don't even know how our tree could possbily fit more gifts under it.  I am excited about the gifts I am giving this year, and I hope everyone likes what I got them.  The only thing missing now is a little dusting of snow.  It is abnormally warm right now, and I think it was almost 50 degress today!  Normally, I would be the last one requesting cold weather, but I would like a white Christmas.  Just not too much, so that we can still get to our holiday parties easily!

Last night, Ashlee and Will came over with their kids, and it was the first time that all of the adults were able to get together in over 2 years!  It was fun watching the kids play together and seeing how excited their kids are about Christmas.  They were so excited to show me a video Santa sent them telling them that they made it to the nice list. It gave me an idea of how fun it will be once Kenley really gets into it.  It will be fun this year since she will be much more alert and playful.  Last year, I'm pretty sure she slept the majority of the day.  I remember everyone was so excited for the few minutes she opened her eyes. 

So, I'm just enjoying these few days before Christmas.  Right now, I'm baking cookies.  Well, by baking I mean cracking apart the pre-made cookie dough, and putting it in the oven :) Hey, I think that counts!  I don't want Santa to be hungry when he gets here. 

Here are some pictures I took this morning of Kenley in her Santa diapers.  Look at those little buns!

Rough Start, Strong End

Tried to think about how to summarize this week, and rough start, strong end is just about perfect.  I had a very rough week.  I'm not usually much of a crier, or, at least I try not to be, but this week I did my fair share.  It started off with a really hard start to the week in school.  I have two classes that are just driving me crazy lately.  So, after those bad days at work all I wanted to do was pick up Kenley and come home and try to enjoy a few hours with her and Ray.  Kenley wanted nothing to do with me Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday night.  She cried and tried to get away from me the second she would see me. Talk about breaking a mom's heart :(  I already have total working-mom guilt, and this only confirmed my fears that she would not want her mommy because I am spending so much time away from her.  I know that this is completely normal for kids to go through, and I shouldn't take it personally.  But, as much as I tried to tell myself that I couldn't help buy feel horrible.  So, by the third night, I basically had a break down. I was getting anxious about the weekend, since we already had plans for my parents to watch Kenley so we could go out to celebrate Greg's birthday.  I always feel so conflicted because I do like to go out sometimes, but it IS hard for me to be away from Kenley on the weekends because that is what I look forward to all week. I think it is kind of hard for me to explain, but sometimes I just get worked up anticipating being away from her even if it is just for a few hours.

But, anyway, the end of the week was better.  Thursday and Friday went much smoother at school.  I forced my one class that had been giving me hell to do silent work until the end of the week.  Two of my favorite students from another class even wrote me the sweetest letter telling me that I was their favorite teacher.  It was much better picking Kenley up those days, and we were able to spend some time together both nights. Kenley was so snuggly to me on Thursday and Saturday, that I swear, she was trying to make up for the rough nights before. Friday night we went to dinner with Joan, and it was so nice being able to catch up and have some girl talk. Saturday, we went out for my sister's graduation from her Master's Degree Program and my dad's birthday.  Later,  that night, my parents watched Kenley so that we could go bowling with Katie and Greg to celebrate Greg's birthday.  I was really glad that we went and we had a fun time.  

I am determined to have a good week this week!  I only have 2 days of work until I start my 2 week Christmas break!  I can not wait to just be home and spend every minute with my little girl.  I know Christmas is going to be so much fun with her this year.  I am happy that Ray will also have a 3 day weekend for Christmas and New Years.  I am going to focus on my family and getting in the spirit of Christmas!

1st Birthday!

That's right, Kenley is officially ONE!  How is it possible?  We had her birthday party last weekend at the house, and it turned out great!  Kenley had so much fun being the center of attention, eating her cake, and opening all her presents (well, of course she had help with the last one.)  It was fun celebrating with our families and Kenley was so happy all day.  I think there were about a million pictures taken, so pretty much every moment was captured.  Ray and I took the day off today to celebrate with Kenley and we took her to go see Santa!  We had no delusions that she would be too happy and we were right.  She was okay until it came time for her to actually sit on his lap.  But, we still got some pretty funny pictures.  There was the slightest dusting of snow on the ground this morning, and I couldn't help but think about how it snowed while we were in the hospital the day after she was born. 

I thought I would reflect on a few things about this past year:

I realized that I was meant to be a mom.  I don't mean this in the sense that I am the best mom, or that I always know what to do, but for the fact that I love every minute of being a mom.  I always hoped that I would have a baby girl, and I am so lucky that I got my wish.  I remember when we found out that she was a girl, and I truly felt like it was too good to be true.  Before Kenley was born, people would tell me that being a mom is hard, but totally worth it.  I am pretty lucky to say that Kenley is such a happy, easygoing baby that being a mom has not been hard, it's been awesome!  Sure, there are days that are hard, but that is mostly because I get sad about being away from her when I am at work.  It's hard that I can't be with my baby girl all the time, but as soon as I'm with her she puts a smile on my face. 

Kenley has brought our family even closer.  Ray and I have seen a new side of each other now that we are parents.  We bonded over our precious girl, and the two of us look at her in amazement like only parents can.  I love seeing them together and the way Kenley's face lights up when her daddy plays around with her.  Ray and I have both always been close with our families, but Kenley has only made us closer.  We are so lucky to have so  much love, support, and help from our families.  Kenley is SO loved.

Things I never want to forget about this year are:  The nights when I was exhausted, but I would get up in the middle of night with Kenley and it was just the two of us, (sometimes for hours and hours...)when Kenley first rolled over on Easter, and Ray and I were the first ones to see it, when we went to the zoo for the first time, running in the jogging stroller with her in the summer, taking her to the pool, getting her out of her crib in the morning when she is waiting with a big smile on her face, listening to her babble...man, this girl has a LOT to say!  When she learned to give kisses, when she learned to wave, when she doesn't want to go to anyone but her mommy (yes, this secretly makes me happy) when she will snuggle, which isn't often, when she smiles and laughs at the stupid things I do to get a reaction out of her.  This list could probably go on and on, but these are just a few of the things I want to remember.

Happy 1st Birthday Kenley!  We love you so much and you have truly made this the BEST year ever!

Loving it!

What a GREAT weekend so far!  I am taking full advantage of a full 5 days off of work, and even better is that Ray had them off too!  I can't think of the last time that happened when we were not travelling.  We were both off on Wednesday and Kenley got her 1 year photos taken. Well, it wasn't quite the experience I had imagined which would have been Kenley being super cute and giving us kisses, smiling and hamming it up for the camera.  She wasn't in the best mood, and it ended up being a little stressful for Ray and I.  I was trying to keep Kenley happy in between changing her outfits and the pictures, and I guess I was a bit bossy to Ray.  (Sorry, honey)  However, I am sure there were many adorable pictures taken, and we will get to see them soon.  But, it was still nice having the day off and we managed to get our Christmas tree up!  Kenley was back to her usual happy self after she got to nap.

Our Thanksgiving was great, and Kenley was such a trooper!  We went to my Grandma Wostratzky's early in the day and got to see my Aunts and Uncles and a few of my Cousins, which was fun. Then, we headed to Ray's mom's house with his family for dinner.  It was his mom's first time having Thanksgivng in her new house, and it was so nice. Kenley napped in the car, and then we stopped by my Grandma and Grandpa Voight's house to surprise them since they didn't think we would be able to make it there.  So, it was a long, but fun day seeing all the family, eating, and hanging out.
We were so glad that Kenley was in such a good mood, and everyone was so happy to see her.  This is her last, first holiday.  (Meaning it was her first Thanksgiving, the last FIRST holiday for her)  It was really special for me, and I hope for her too. It was so  nice for her to be able to crawl around and entertain everyone with all of her new skills. She showed off her clapping, standing, blowing kisses, saying "all done" and "hello" to everyone.  I swear, I never saw a group of people more entertained by this.  (me included) She is clearly the center of attention at the family parties being the first, and only grandchild at this point. 
Friday, I introduced Kenley to her first "Black Friday" and she was so great!  I wasn't sure how long I would be able to be out shopping, but ended up being gone for almost 7 hours!  Surprisingly, it wasn't too crowded.  We went to Khol's and then to the mall.  I got a lot of gifts so far, and had fun continuing a tradition with Kenley.  I met my mom and sister at Khol's and then my aunts and Anthony were at the mall at the same time so we had luch with them. 
Today and tomorrow are just chill days to get a few things on my "to-do" list finished and relax a bit!  I don't want this weekend to end!  It's been great, and I know I only have 3-1/2 more weeks till Christmas break.  Here are some pics we took the morning of Thanksgiving.

Thankful

I am thankful for so many things in my life. Sometimes I think about how lucky I am and can't belive that I have been so fortunate in my life. 

First, and foremost I am thankful for Family:

This year my own family of 3!  It has been an amazing year becoming a mom and I am so thankful for meeting my husband because he has given me everything I ever wanted, a family. I have loved watching him as a father and Kenley Marie brings a smile to my face every day.  We couldn't be more greatful for our amazing little girl and every day brings a new adventure.  I am also truly so greatful for both of our families.  Our parents and sisters are always there for us and we are lucky to have so much support and love from them all.  I couldn't imagine not having them around and all living close by.

I am also thankful to all of my friends.  Although I don't get to see some of my friends as often as when we were younger, I am very thankful that they are just a phone call or visit away and it seems like no time at all has past.  I have been very lucky to have some of the same friends since childhood.  Not many people can say that. I'm hoping to get to see some of my friends over my Christmas break and catch up!  I'm also thankful for my co-workers, and my friends that I have met over the past few years through Ray

I am very thankful for all the things I have in life.  My house, car, and material posessions.  We have lived in our house for about a year and a half now and I truly feel at home and peaceful when I am here.  We put a lot of work (and money) into making this house the way we wanted it, and have really been enjoying it.  I am especially feeling cozy about being home now that we put our Christmas tree up!  Thankful that we have jobs, even though we complain about work, we are lucky that we both have pretty stable jobs that allow us to have these things.

I could probably go on about many, many more things I am thankful for, but these are the top of the list.  I am ready for Turkey Day tomorrow.  Just finishing up my corn casserole that is baking in the oven.  Next on the list is to get ready for Black Friday!  Yes, I am a freak and actually enjoy going out on this crazy shopping day.  I have always gone with my mom and sister, and it's a tradition that I find fun.  This year, I will be introducing Kenley to the maddness.  I plan on at least going to Khol''s, and it makes it pretty easy since I live right across the street.  Last year I got a ton of my gifts from there since its a place you can shop for everyone.  Plus, I want to get the Khol's cash!  I have a few things on my list to buy so far, but I am hoping to get more ideas tomorrow since we do our secret santa drawings with both families.  Yay!  I'm excited just thinking about it!

Looking forward to spending the day with family tomorrow.  We haven't seen our grandparents, aunts, and uncles, or cousins recently so it will be nice to catch up with everyone.  Let the holidays officially begin!

Happy Turkey Day!
P.S. We are also anxiously awaiting the news about my cousin, Rob, and his wife Pam.  Their baby boy is due tomorrow.  We all hope he is born soon!

Just Thinking....

Yay for another weekend!  Even better, out of the next 9 days I only have to work 2 of them!  Whoooo!! Thanksgiving is next week and Ray and I are both off starting Wednesday.  I am very excited about that because Kenley is going to get her 1 year pictures taken by Amanda Hein, Cheryl's wedding photographer.  We are also hoping to get some family pictures and maybe even a Christmas picture.  I already have 2 outfits planned for Kenley, including her b-day party outfit.

This weekend we are going to start shopping for gifts and maybe even put up some of our Christmas decorations.  The next several weekends are already starting to get pretty busy with lots of family b-days coming up, the holidays, and friend/work parties. 

Kenley isn't walking yet, but she is busy standing and pulling herself up every chance she gets.  She is still adjusting to the time change.  This morning she was up at 5:00 am again!  As much as I would love the extra sleep, I am also secretly happy when she wakes up a little earlier because it forces me to get up and then I get to spend more time with her before heading to work.  This morning we had time to snuggle in bed and play a little before heading to Sally's.  Sally, Kenley's babysitter is so sweet.  We are so lucky that my co-worker reccommended her to us.  She truly loves having Kenley over, and really misses her when she isn't there.  Between her and Ray's mom watching Kenley, we couldn't really ask for a better situation. 

 Here are some pics I took this week.

Trick or Treat!

Kenley's first Halloween was a lot of fun.  She was with Grandma Kruse during the day, and went to her work with her in costume!  All the doctors and nurses loved her.  Then, Ray and I took her trick-or-treating, just to a few houses and neighbors that we know.  The neighbors all loved seeing her and gave us plenty of candy that Ray and I enjoyed later. I took about a million pictures of our adorable little pink elephant!!  I know next year Kenley will be running up to all the houses and saying, "trick-or-treat" for herself!  Katie and Greg stopped by the house to see Kenley in her costume.  We were all surprised that she didn't seem to mind the huge elephant ears and didn't complain too much about having the thing strapped on her head.

This week I had a rough week at work.  Just the usual things that happen with students getting lazy and not listening, but it just really seems to have escalated the past 2-3 weeks.  I was happy to have parent-teacher conferences tuesday, and today I attended a reading conference.  I think I needed a little break from the classroom.  I saw a quote on somebody's facebook wall that said, "There are 7 billion people in the world, don't let one ruin your day."  I think I'll have to repeat that mantra and not let a few negative student ruin my day. 

Planning for Kenley's 1st birthday is underway!  We just got the invitations and her birthday outfit! We're just going to have the family over for a party, but I have already bought some great decorations and I am planning the rest of the details.  I'm happy to celebrate her 1st amazing year of life, but a little sad too.  To me, she is still my little tiny baby and probably always will be in many ways. 

Ready to enjoy the rest of the weekend.  After this week we have a few busy weekends coming up, and I know things probably won't slow down until after the holidays!  Wow....I better start thinking of gift ideas for everyone!

Random Thoughts!

Just have a few quiet minutes to think about a few things right now since Ray isn't home yet and Kenley is napping.  It's kinda wierd and I don't really know what to do with myself!  Usually during a time like this I would be cleaning like a madwoman!  I will be the first to admit that I am a neat freak.  I can not stand it when my house is not clean and everything is in its place.  I realize I will have to get over this as Kenley gets older and all her toys start invading the house, but right now I think I'm doing a pretty good job about keeping things neat.  So, back to my point-the reason I am not cleaning right now is because I am having a cleaning lady come next week!  I am so beyond excited about this that it is kind of sick.

I've had a few hard weeks at work and have cried several times over being away from my baby.  I'm sure every working mom understands.  I think these few weeks have been especially difficult because I have a few students that are driving me nuts that make it harder to go to work.  Plus, Kenley has been so tired a few days that she has been going to bed before 7:00!  I hate it because then it is like I only get to see her for 2 hours a day.  I'll keep wishing to win the lottery....(guess I better start playing!)

Halloween is on Monday and I'm excited to dress Kenley up.  She's going to be a pink elephant.  I'm sure I'll take lots of pictures, if we can get her to keep the costume on for a few minutes.  We're just going to take her to a few of the neighbor's houses, and then Ray and I will eat the candy :)  It's pretty crazy that this is basically the start to the holidays.  It gets me pretty excited to start thinking about decorating the house and buying gifts!  I'm hoping our house will be even more festive than it was last year because I have been accumulating decorations over the past year.  I'm sure Ray will be thrilled when he realizes everything he has to help me put up!  I think I get this from my mom because she always went all out for Christmas.  Growing up, we even had Christmas decorations in the bathrooms! 

SO looking forward to the weekend! 

October

The past few weeks have gone by so fast, I haven't even have time to blog at all.  I had to look at my last post to see what was going on then and realized it has been almost a month!  Today Kenley is officially 10 months old!  She is really cruising around now crawling everywhere and getting into everything!  She also got another tooth, so she is up to 5 now.  Part of the reason I haven't blogged is because for a few weeks we have all been passing around a cold!  I had kind of a bad week and between being sick, and the cold dreary weather I was just kinda cranky all week. Unfortunately, I ended up being sick on my birthday.  Kenley had been sick a few days before and Ray and I took off the day of my birthday planning to do something fun, but then I got sick.  Now, two weeks later Kenley seemed unable to get rid of it so I finally took her to the doctor and found out she had an ear and sinus infection. It didn't seem to bother her too much, and for the most part she has been her happy, playful self.  She's already getting a lot better from being on medicine the past few days. 
On a positive note, this week has been much better.  I am so excited to enjoy this beautiful weather and even more excited that I have a 3 day weekend! I took Kenley out in the jogging stroller and could have stayed out there all day.  I know I better enjoy these warm days because it could be snowing in a few weeks. My parents are going to babysit Kenley tonight so that I can go get a massage, and then Ray and I are going out for a date night.  We are also getting new carpeting put in our lower level right now.  It seems like the weekend is off to a great start!