Much Needed Update...

Okay... I know... I've taken about a month off of blogging during one of the most eventful times of year.  Christmas was amazing.  We had a wonderful time together as a family and were able to see most of our extended family during this busy time of year.  What a huge blessing.  Emma really got into Christmas this year and we enjoyed acting out with our nativity scene/reading/sharing with her about the birth of Jesus.  I can't even imagine how much more she'll soak up next year!  Another momentous event happened for Emma on Christmas day too.  She received her first soccer ball.  Please understand... in no way am I trying to overshadow the birth of our Lord... but in both my life and Billy's... soccer was a huge part of our childhood/teenage years/college etc.  Okay... maybe more for me... but a lot of time, sweat and medical bills went into that sport for my family since 3 children played for more than two decades.  It really was the perfect gift for Emma and she does love her 'ball'.  My heart literally lept the first time she kicked it.  She doesn't have to follow in Mommy's footsteps, but I hope she does find a hobby that she enjoys like I enjoyed soccer. 

Speaking more of Emma... she has really become a toddler this past month.  She is just growing up before our eyes and we just wish we could slow it down.  Currently here's some of her latest skills;

saying all kinds of words, even putting two of them together sometimes
walking and I'd go as far to say she's running (as fast as those little legs will go)
walking backwards (she's too young for that right?)
feeding herself with a spoon and sometimes offering Daddy some (Billy never says no) :-)
grabbing our hands and taking us with her when she really wants to do something
graduated to a convertible car seat
can go get her shoes/water or pacifier when I ask her to (sometimes I don't even know where they are!)
she's enjoying 'fort' type creations that can be made from blankets or boxes
she dances... but she's always danced :-)

Every toddler needs to know how to use an Ipad right?  My 11 yr old nephew, Jake, showing her how.

I think I'm going to like facing this direction!!

Dancing with a new friend at Mainly Music

In her makeshift fort.

We can hardly believe this time last year she was barely sitting up.  It's one of those joyfully sad events that take place as you see your baby growing up.  But it is amazing how much she can comprehend at this early age.  She still is mesmorized with dogs and will basically kick anything round on the ground.  Her love for books is weaved deep within her soul.  She loves walks outside and going to the park to look at rocks and to see the water.  She can point out an airplane in the air before I even hear it sometimes.  She just seems to have this overall fascination with whats going on around her, no matter where we are... and its a huge comfort to know most of the time she is a content little girl. 

Cute pic.

We also found out recently that Emma is going to have a little sister!!  I just grin and think of all the adventures, sweet times and disagreements they will have together.  I love my sisters to no end... but in our earlier years.... we were probably the best of friends and the worst of enemies at the same time! June Bug (her nickname since she is due in June) is looking right on track and healthy with lots of normal stats.  Billy and I have already been saying how we'll be talking about 'the girls' this time next year.  So fun.

Hi little June Bug.

Emma wanted to buy her 'Little Sister' this.