Cole's Half-Birthday . . . With an Extra Surprise for Me!

I like to think that I come from a pretty fun family. We have fun together and do fun creative things. I mean, who else makes t-shirts for every momentous occasion? One special thing we do every now and then is celebrate a half-birthday.

"What is a half-birthday?" you ask. Well, it's 6 months after your actual birthdate when, in Cole's case, he turns 10 and a half! This is a great little celebration for those with December or January birthdates who often get overshadowed by or have their gifts combined with Christmas.

Last weekend my parents came over to celebrate Cole's big 10.5 before they left on their vacation to visit my sister's family. Cole had no idea!

They even brought half a birthday cake . . .

to be served on half birthday plates!

He also got some great gifts - movies, a new novel, and this way cool wall sticker of a basketball player - #41 in blue, anybody know who?

But before the festivities got started, I went to get the baby up from her nap, knowing Memom would need to get her fix before leaving town for a week. As I came back up the hallway, Cole said, "Look who's here!" And what to my wondering eyes should appear? My sister!!!

I was SO excited! We needed a video camera to capture that moment. I almost squished the baby! I know I scared her half to death with my screaming! What a wonderful surprise! She had flown down to catch Cole's little party, meet her new niece, and then drive back home with mom and dad.

We spent the rest of the day together and it was so fun, just hanging around the house talking. She is a great resource for this "new" mom. And we laughed a lot. Everyone needs a good friend they can easily laugh with. My sister is that friend.

But she wasn't here an hour before she put this ridiculous bow in my little girl's hair. Good grief! Sorry if I offend any readers, but I personally think bows and headbands on babies are silly. I'm just saying. I mean look at her! She looks like a present!
The day flew by and was over before I knew it. I so wish it could have been a longer visit, but she has her own little ones to attend to. I am grateful for the time we did have. Thanks for making it happen, Beck! You too Jeremy!

And happy 10.5, Cole!!!

One Month Old!

I am one-month old now! Look how sweet I am.

I've been eating well - check out my cheeks!

My Aunt B took pictures of her kids every month next to a stuffed animal to see how much they grew. So my mommy put me next to this lamb. Next time we'll use a colorful background so it will be easier to see.

Here I am striking a pose in my cute shirt/shorts set. Turquoise is a good color for me!

Yep, that's red hair! Well, more auburn or strawberry blond like my mommy's. It gets lots of attention!

When I get toweled off after a bath, it looks kinda crazy and curly!

It's been a great first month! I can't wait to see what next month holds!

Good Big Brother

Smiles

Ever seen a baby smile in their sleep? Is it gas, dreams, inherent sense of humor - who knows! But it is precious! My daughter has a beautiful smile. Let's pause for a moment and realize that I just used the phrase "my daughter" in a sentence. Still not use to that. Hmm . . . moving on.

Catching the elusive, unintentional smile is a difficult task since you never know the precise moment it will occur. She usually gives us the grin while falling asleep, though sometimes she will outright laugh in the middle of a hard sleep.

Here are a few of my attempts to capture the beautiful beam:

I just can't wait until she can do them voluntarily!!

Cow Appreciation Day

July 9th was Chick-fil-A's Cow Appreciation Day. Dress like a cow - get free food!

"Free" and "Chick-fil-A" in the same sentence sends my husband into orbit! He prepared our outfits this year. Unfortunately, we had to go at lunch time and Cole was at camp so he didn't get to participate this year. But we initiated Naomi right in to the Jackson tradition!

The Bull

The Cow

The Calf

Naomi Update

Well, we've made it 16 days with our new little one! And we just love her! She is so precious. We find ourselves just watching her. Her little baby facial expressions and noises are so fun! Cole is a fan of hers most of the time - he just doesn't understand why she continues to cry.

Here are more pictures of our blessing:

Checking out the new girl

Grace Therapeutic Massage

Brice's massage room is officially open!

He has joined Grace Ministries to offer proper ethical body work and promote long term maintenance, health, and care to many hurting souls around the city.

We've had a lot of fun getting the room ready and decorated to create a relaxing, comfortable environment.

And look how official he is!

There is a launch party at Grace Ministries on July 22nd at 5:30. Come see the space and make your appointment!