SIL pressure

So, as many of you have noticed- I haven't posted on this blog in a while. The lack of posting certainly has not been because our lives have been void of exciting events and happenings. My initial lack of posting was due to pure exhaustion. I used to post when Chandler was napping; however, in July I began taking naps along with Chandler and going to bed shortly after Chandler was asleep. I attribute the sheer exhaustion and lack of posting to the little blessing who has been growing and thriving inside of my body for the past 29 weeks or so. Those of you have been there understand. Those of you who put up with me falling asleep during our conversations understand. Those of you who talked to me on my car rides home from work in order to help me stay awake understand. Anyway, I regained some of my energy a while back, but I felt so behind it was a daunting thought to catch you guys up. I think the last post of substance was actually in July. The posted video of Chandler in September was a valiant attempt, but the video itself was many, many months old at the time of the posting. So, here's the catch up...bear with me...I'll spare you too many details- promise.

Jeff, Chandler and I found out our family was going to increase to four in July. We were excited of course, but cautious. We filled our families in on the news in September explaining why I looked so bloated and couldn't keep my eyes open. Chandler remains overly excited about baby Smoak coming into our lives. You see, Chandler is a "big boy" in every way and is very excited to meet his little brother. He has offered to let him sleep in his bed and has said he will show him all of his toys when he comes. We did have a few shaky months of Chandler really wanting a "baby sooster", but he's over it now. If you ask him what he wants to name his baby brother he'll tell you "Daddy Smoak". Most of all, he just wants the "baby out"! We'll see if he doesn't ask us to put the baby back in when he gets here. ; )

For Halloween Chandler wanted to be Mickey Mouse, so of course I obliged- I couldn't think of a more adorable costume. He had fun trick-or-treating downtown with Bella (his princess).

The second week of November Jeff had the honor of pinning Jason's police badge on him as he graduated from Oakland Police Academy. We're so proud of Jason and happy for his family- and Jeff is loving having him around work now!

The holidays were of course full of family time, shopping and some chaos. We spent some time at the snow with Jeff's family right after Christmas and Chandler loved it! He helped make snowmen, went down the tube run, played with his monster trucks in the snow, and of course loved to lick the snow (every mom's dream : P).

We also found out on Christmas Eve that my Ma maw and G pa were going to go from having 1 grandbaby to 3 by September of this year. Brandon and Kimberly are expecting a little person at the end of August and we are thrilled! I can't wait to meet him/ her! Chandler is still learning that he can't jump on Kikers. She used to be fair game for anything, but now he has to be a little more careful.

Side note: Jeff and I celebrated our 8th Wedding Anniversary this year! Woo hoo!

So far the new year has consisted of two amazing weddings, riots and Spring cleaning a bit early. We can't wait for the rest of the year- we have so much to be thankful for and so much to look forward too. Hopefully I can keep up more with my blogging; however, I'm not convinced of my diligence once kiddo #2 arrives.

Here are some pictures of the last 6 months in no particular order- that's getting a little excessive.

Decorating the Christmas tree with Daddy (mommy was there too).

A finished Gingerbread Choo Choo Train- yummy.

At the Pumpkin Patch with mommy and daddy.

Playing in the creek up at "The Cabin" with Daddy. Grammy, Papa, Madison, Kyle and Mommy were there too.

The new train I got for my second birthday from mommy and daddy.

Hiking in Yosemite in July

Picking out a Christmas tree with Mommy and Daddy (told you order was out).

Roasting hot dogs with Daddy in Yosemite- my first camping trip!