LADYBUG-GARDEN

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ABBY!

2010-10-03T19:51:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to my Beautiful Ladybug. It's been the best 3 years of my life. I love you Miss Abby!

Love,

Ladybug Grandma

SUMMER FUN

2010-09-28T20:37:00.000-07:00

The Summer went by so fast. Daddy had to go to Chicago for a week. We got to go to Seattle for Daddy's class reunion. We went to a few baseball games. Aunt Val and Uncle Chris got married and I was a flower Girl. We got to play outside a lot and pick raspberries and tomatoes at grandma and grandpa's house.

Ladybug Grandma has a hard time keeping up with the blog these days. Fortunately, she does take a few pictures. Here are a few from this summer!

Posing in Daddy's hat!

Hannah just Loves Corn-on-the-cob.

Here we are getting ready for a walk.

Grandpa is teaching me to play tee ball. I'm getting pretty good at it.

I got to be a flower girl for my Aunt Val and Uncle Chris's wedding.

Hannah at the Wedding

Getting ready for the wedding to start

Hannah and I got to have a tea party!

Perfecting my pouring skills!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HANNAH!

2010-02-15T18:27:00.000-08:00

Hannah at 10 days
Hannah today!

I'm one year old tomorrow!

Happy Birthday sweet girl!

Tomorrow, we celebrate the birth of our dear little Hannah. She is a very sweet little girl and has brought much joy to our lives. She says several words, is thinking about walking, and wants to feed herself. She manages pretty well with her 6 teeth. She loves her big sister and wants to do everything Abby is doing. We love you Hannah!

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

2009-12-19T18:53:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone. It's been a very busy month. Daddy's football team won the State Championship. We went to a lot of football games!

I've been trying very hard to stay off of the naughty list. Sometimes it's really, really hard. Grandpa has been reading me lots of stories and I have been watching lots of Christmas stories on TV. Last week, Grandpa took be downtown on the bus. It was a lot of fun.

Hannah is getting real fast at crawling. She pulls herself up on stuff and gets into my things. She has 2 teeth now. She babbles a lot and says some words. I like playing with her.

We are in Seattle seeing Grandma Linda and Grandpa Greg. When we get home, it will be time for Christmas! I think it is going to be fun!

BIRTHDAY, HALLOWEEN AND RANDOM CUTENESS!

2009-10-30T13:32:00.000-07:00

THE BUMBLE BEE AND THE CATERPILLAR
MISS HANNAH THE CATERPILLAR

MISS ABIGAIL THE BUMBLE BEE

SILLY LITTLE MONKEYS

HANNAH LIKES TO CRAWL UNDER HER EXERCISER

HAPPY HANNAH

ABBY SLEEPING IN PAPA'S ARMS
SWINE FLU IS NO FUN

TASTY BIRTHDAY CAKE

OPENING PRESENTS

UNCLE TRAVIS SHOWING ME I'M TWO YEARS OLD!

A lot has happened since Grandma last made a post. She is so busy with Hannah and me that it's hard for her to keep up.

On October 3rd, I turned 2 years old. We had a brunch party. Grandma Linda and Grandpa Greg came all the way from Seattle. Aunt Stephie, Uncle Travis, Uncle Paul, Ladybug Grandma, Papa and our friends Ron, Cynthia and Nancy came to celebrate with us.

A couple of weeks ago, Daddy, Mommy, Grandma, Hannah and I all got the swine flu. We were all pretty sick except Hannah who was only a little sick. I don't know where we got it because we haven't seen any pigs since the Fair in August!

Yesterday, Mommy and Daddy took Hannah and me to mommy's office to "Trick or Treat."

We dressed up in our Halloween costumes. I was a bumble bee and Hannah was a Caterpillar. We were so cute!

Hannah is 8 1/2 months old now. She crawls all over the place. She squeals a lot. She doesn't have any teeth yet.

I still love my books. Papa reads them to me all the time. Sometimes I read them to him.

We are getting ready for Thanksgiving now. A whole bunch of people are coming to our house.

FUN IN THE SUN!

2009-07-13T21:36:00.001-07:00

INTRODUCING.."TIGRESS" GARDNER
JUST CHILLIN' IN THE POOL
HANGIN' IN THE BACK YARD
WATCHING BASEBALL WITH DADDY

The sun finally came out and I get to play in the backyard. The Swimming pool is a lot of fun, but Hannah is too little to swim so she just has to sit back in her chair and watch.

Grandpa also got me a golf club and is teaching me how to play golf. We also play soccer in the backyard and look for birds and airplanes.

Hannah is getting so big. She likes to laugh and sit in her chairs. When she lays on the floor, she is almost turning over to her tummy. She will be 5 months old on Thursday.

Mommy had to go to San Francisco for 2 days. Daddy is off work so we get to stay home with him.

My new favorite indoor activity is coloring. I color lots of pictures. My favorite color is yellow.

IS IT SUMMER YET?

2009-06-04T22:21:00.000-07:00

HANNAH AND I HAVE MATCHING LADYBUG OUTFITS!

I LOVE TO HIDE IN MOMMY AND DADDY'S CLOSET

I LOVE MY BABY SISTER

So much has happened in the past month. Everyone is busy because we moved into our new house. We are trying to get all the boxes unpacked and things put away. I am trying to get used to the stairs. Grandma Linda taught me to go down on my bottom. I've only fallen down them once, but that's enough.

Our new house is so big. I love to run around the circle. We have a big back yard and I get to go out and play soccer. I have a pool to sit in if it ever gets warm enough.

Our new house is only 5 minutes from Grandma and Grandpa's. Some days they come over and watch us at home.

Hannah is getting bigger. She smiles a lot and giggles too. She likes her swing and bouncy chair. I like them too, but grandma said I'm too big to sit in them.

I am learning a lot of new words. Sometimes I even use them instead of whining. I still love my books and I love playing with balls. I'm a good thrower and kicker.

SPRING IS IN THE AIR

2009-04-30T19:49:00.000-07:00

BLOWING BUBBLES IS FUN
MY FIRST EASTER EGG HUNT

HANNAH AT HER BAPTISM

HANNAH LAUGHING AT MAMA

We've been very busy this spring. I've learned a lot of new words. Hannah is learning to sleep all night. We had Easter and Hannah got baptised on the same day, and we got a new house.

Grandma Linda and Aunt Beth and Aunt Sarah all came for Hannah's baptism. After Church, we went to brunch. Aunt Stephie and Uncle Travis and Uncle Paul also came. We hunted eggs on Saturday because it was nice out. I had a lot of fun putting them in my basket, but they were empty. Mama said that maybe next year, the Easter Bunny will put something in them.

Mama went back to work this Monday. She said she needs to get more money because we got a new house. Our new house is 6 miles closer to Mama's work and Grandma and Grandpa's house. It has a nice big back yard. My bedroom is huge. I've already had issues with the stairs. I slipped on the bottom step and fell. I need to take stair descending lessons.

I'm being a good girl. Hannah has to come to Grandma and Grandpa's with me. It's not so bad. When Grandpa is playing golf, I get a little crabby cause Grandma can't play with JUST ME. I still love my books. I like to feed myself but I DO NOT like to get my face and hands washed when I'm done.

BAD LADYBUG GRANDMA!

2009-03-24T21:45:00.000-07:00

HANNAH IN HER CRIB
EATING MY FIRST CHEESEBURGER

WISHING AUNT STEPHIE A HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Ladybug Grandma has not been keeping up with the blog and posting new pictures. There really is no good excuse.

Hannah is growing bigger every day. She got yucky stuff in her mouth that the doctor called "thrush." She is a good girl and lets mommy sleep a little. She weighed 8 pounds and 8 ounces when she saw the doctor.

I've decided that I DO NOT want my picture taken. I want the camera. I like to look at the pictures in the back. Grandma has a lot of new pictures of me "pitching a fit."

This past weekend, we went to Seattle to see all of my relatives there. They had a party for us. Grandma Linda and Grandpa Greg taught me about bubbles. I LIKE BUBBLES.

HANNAH AT ONE WEEK!

2009-02-28T23:13:00.000-08:00

THESE PICTURES WERE TAKEN ON FEBRUARY 23RD

A BUSY WEEK!

2009-02-28T22:47:00.000-08:00

We had a very busy week. Aunt Tiah came and brought Derek and Drake. We had fun playing. Aunt Tiah took lots of pictures of me and Hannah.

Hannah will be 2 weeks old on Monday. Daddy has to go back to work and I will go to Grandma and Grandpas' house. They said the doggies miss me.

I'm trying real hard to be a good girl. Sometimes I forget. I like my baby sister, but I DO NOT like sharing my mommy and daddy.

BIG SISTER

2009-02-21T22:00:00.000-08:00

GRANDPA TOOK ME FOR A WALK

WHILE WE WERE WAITING FOR

MOMMY, DADDY AND HANNAH

TO GET HOME

HEY! HERE'S MY NEW BABY SISTERTHIS IS HANNAH GRACE GARDNER

Everyone keeps telling me that I'm a big sister now. I really don't know what a big sister is supposed to do, but I'm sure I'll find out. Hannah has come to live at our house. She sleeps a lot. I DO NOT like it when she cries. Mommy and Daddy let me give her hugs and kisses. Today we went to the Mall and I got to ride in the front seat of our new stroller.

I'm trying real hard to be a good girl. I guess she is here to stay, so I will just have to "shake it off" and get used to it.

HANNAH GRACE GARDNER

2009-02-17T08:54:00.000-08:00

Hannah Grace arrived at 7:39 P.M. on February 16th. She weighed in at 7 pounds and 7 ounces and is a whopping 20 inches tall. We don't know what her future plans are but you can be sure that they will include those lungs that they gave her 10 more days to develop.

She is beautiful and going to be a great addition to our Ladybug Garden. Abby will get to meet her today..........We will post more photos of the happy family later.

PAY IT FORWARD!

2009-02-15T11:43:00.000-08:00

OK....This idea came from a friend in Utah.

The first 3 people to leave a comment on this post will receive a hand made gift from me during this year. (Or maybe a store bought gift, depending on my time what with "new baby" coming tomorrow.) When and what will be a surprise. There's a small catch......You knew there would be, didn't you? Post this on your blog then come back and leave a comment, telling me that "You're In." Fun, huh? Who doesn't like surprises. Remember only the first 3 comments will receive a gift.

COUNTDOWN TO NEW BABY

2009-02-11T11:06:00.000-08:00

WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?

WHAT NEW BABY?

Grandma tells me that we are counting the days until the "new baby" moves into our house. I don't know what in the world she is talking about. Our house does not need a "new baby", thank you very much.

Mommy is supposed to HAVE the new baby on Monday.

We have been very busy at our house. We got all new carpet and new floors in the bathrooms. The house was a mess for 3 days. I have a lot of new fuzzies to pick up now. The kitties had to move to the garage because the "new baby" is going to sleep in their room.

I have a bad cold and a nasty cough right now.

Grandma will let everyone know when "new baby" invades my life. I don't know what all the fuss is about.........we really don't need a "new baby". Do we?

'TIS THE SEASON

2008-12-10T20:10:00.000-08:00

Today, grandma took me to get my Christmas picture taken. They turned out pretty good, so we thought we would share them with you.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

2008-12-06T22:21:00.000-08:00

We've been really busy these days. I have learned to walk. I spend my days cruising around letting grandma and grandpa chase me. I'm getting really fast. I find all kinds of things to get in to. I love to walk. I do not like the word "NO."

On Thanksgiving, we went to Albany to spend the day with our cousins. I had turkey and all the trimmings. They had a "sunken living room" so I spent a lot of time crawling up and down the step. I was a very good girl. I like turkey, but I LOVE pumpkin pie.

Yesterday, Mommy and Daddy took me to the mall to see Santa. HO, HO, HO. It was kind of scary. He's much bigger than the pictures I've seen. Grandma taught me to say "HO, HO, HO." I say it a lot because Santa is everywhere. I'm not quite sure what he's all about. I like Santa, but I DO NOT like him to hold me.

HALLOWEEEN CUTIE

2008-11-03T22:57:00.000-08:00

This Halloween, I had two costumes. The first one was a puppy dog. We had my picture taken a couple of weeks ago, but I outgrew it and Daddy had to go get me a new one. I went trick-or-treating at Mommy's office dressed as a Jack-O-Lantern. I don't know what that was all about the there were a lot of children all dressed up and a lot of grown-ups making a big fuss over me.

Grandma Linda was here all week. She watched me so my Ladybug Grandma and Grandpa could go to Arizona and watch the Ducks play the Sun Devils. They had fun and the Ducks won!

I have been practicing walking. I'm not very good yet. I mostly cruise around the furniture, but I do walk between the couches.

I've been having fun playing with my new birthday toys. I really like all of my books. Especially the ones with animals.

ABBY IS ONE!

2008-10-06T19:00:00.000-07:00

THIS DAY TOOK ONE YEAR TO GET HERE!
MY SPECIAL OUTFIT THAT GRANDMA
LINDA GOT FOR ME!

OCTOBER 3RD, 2008

READY FOR BED....MY PARTY WILL BE
TOMORROW, OCTOBER 4TH.

LOTS OF YUMMY FOOD

THESE LOOKS LIKE PRESENTS

BUT THEY ARE REALLY CAKE

THE BOWS ON TOP ARE REAL

FLOWERS!

THIS IS ME WITH ELMO AND ABBY CADABBY!

RIDING ON MY LION THAT

GRANDMA LINDA AND GRANDPA GREG

GAVE ME!

GETTING A TASTE OF CAKE

AND DECLARING THAT I'M

FINALLY ONE!

I'VE HAD ENOUGH CAKE!

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5TH

FATHER STEVE IS SPRINKLING

HOLY WATER ON MY HEAD.

MOMMY, DADDY AND ME AFTER

I WAS BAPTISED.

This was a very busy weekend. My birthday was on Friday. We started out by going to breakfast at IHOP, where the waitresses put a candle in some French Toast and sang "Happy Birthday to Abby." We went home and Mommy and both Grandma's made me a chocolate cake for my party. We went to Chili's for dinner with Daddy then it was home and bed.

On Saturday, both Grandma's and both Grandpa's hung up banners, streamers and blew up a lot of balloons. Mommy and Daddy came home with a lot of food and some pretty cakes.

After a while, friends started coming. First,Mommy's friend Stephanie and Calin came, Then Aunt Stephanie, followed by Auntie Tiah and Derek and Drake. Uncle Paul came but Aunt Haley couldn't come. Uncle Travis came a little late because he had to work. Everybody brought presents because the invitation said NO GIFTS. I got so many toys. Mommy can put the baby toys away because I now have big-girl toys.

We ate lots of food and yummy cake. I got to play in the chocolate cake. No body wanted to eat it after I was through.

Sunday, Mommy and Daddy and I took Grandma Linda and Grandpa Greg to our church. Grandma Kay and Grandpa Bob and Uncle Paul were there.

After church, Auntie Tiah, Derek, Drake and Aunt Stephie and Uncle Travie came and I got Baptised. I was a very good girl. Some of Grandma and Grandpa's friends stayed and watched and some of Daddy's friends from his work came too. I got to wear a long white dress and Grandpa said I looked like an Angel! After that, we went to Marie Callender's for brunch. It was a very busy weekend. When we got home Mommy and I took a nap.

Today I had my one year check up. I had to get 3 shots and I cried. I now weigh 20 pounds and 8 ounces.(the 40th percentile) and I am 31 inches tall. (the 94th percentile) We can now turn my car seat around so I can see where we are going, and I can now drink regular milk! I have 10 teeth so I can eat pretty much anything. I love turkey and yogurt.

It's been a very nice first year............but look out world, I'm going to be walking soon and there's no telling what I will do.

WE WENT TO BRUNCH AFTER CHURCH.

HERE, I AM TEACHING GRANDPA GREG

HOW TO PATTY CAKE!

ELEVEN DOWN, ONE TO GO!

2008-09-03T12:38:00.000-07:00

PLAYING "PATTY CAKE"
MY FIRST CELL PHONE

THE LION SAYS "ROARRRR"

Today, I am 11 months old. In one month, I get to have a birthday party and play in the cake.

My grandma has been very busy these days. I keep her pretty busy because I like to explore everything I can get my hands on. I can move pretty fast. Now I can pull myself up on the furniture and clean off the end tables.

In August, my mommy gave me a nasty cold. It was hard to breathe and eat at the same time. Then, I got a virus somewhere and I was pretty sick. My fever was 103.5 and stayed there for about 3 days. I got a sore throat too. I just wanted to sit on laps and sleep.

I'm back to my old self this week, and boy is Grandma and Grandpa glad!

It's football season again. This time Daddy doesn't have to coach. He will be in a much better mood if our team loses. (Which they hardly ever do.)
He really likes his new job and he gets to come home much earlier. Sometimes, he picks me up!

My favorite toys are my rubber Duckies and my singing nursery rhyme book.

TEN MONTHS OLD!

2008-08-04T20:53:00.000-07:00

I'M A HAPPY GIRL!
THIS IS MY FAVORITE BOOK.
GRANDMA LETS ME CHEW ON IT!

I turned 10 months old yesterday and Grandma fed me Ice Cream. Boy, is it yummy! We spent the day at Grandma and Grandpa's house because we were having an open house. We want to sell our house and get a bigger one closer to Mommy and Daddy's work.

Mommy had to go to San Francisco for a whole week. Daddy and I are going to miss her. Daddy started his job at Marist today.

On Friday, Mommy and Daddy went to the beach and I stayed home with Grandma. I was a very good girl and slept all night. Mommy and Daddy missed me but they had a good time. Thursday was Mommy's birthday. It was the first time that they were both gone all night.

I'm getting to be a big girl.. I like to make all kinds of sounds. I especially like to roar like a lion and make monkey sounds with Aunt Stephie. I love music. Grandma sings me silly songs. I also REALLY like Ice Cream!

MY FIRST "FOURTH OF JULY"

2008-07-09T19:54:00.001-07:00

ALL DRESSED UP
MY MOMMY AND DADDY AND
OUR SPARKLERS
THIS IS AN "ABBY SANDWICH"

MOMMY, DADDY, GRANDMA LINDA

AND ME!

For my first 4th of July, my Grandma Linda came down from Seattle and spent a whole week with me. We had a lot of fun with Daddy while Mommy was at work!

We had a bar-be-que and Grandpa and Ladybug Grandma came over. Uncle Travis was sick but Aunt Stephie came. I got really tired after the Sparklers so I went to bed before the real fireworks. Maybe I can stay awake next year.

Mommy doesn't have to work so many hours now. she gets home in time to play with me. She gets to have Friday off because she had to so many nights and weekends. We are having a garage sale on Saturday. Daddy said it's because my stuff takes up so much room, we have to get rid of some of his and Mommy's.

ITSY-BITSY, TEENY-WEENY YELLOW POLKA-DOT BIKINI

2008-06-19T21:07:00.000-07:00

The sun is finally shining so Grandma took my picture in my new swim suit. She sang me a funny song about it too.

Even though I won't be 9 months old for a couple of weeks, I had my check up at the doctor on Tuesday. I am 27 3/4 inches tall and I weigh 18 pounds and 5 ounces. I am getting so big! I now have 6 teeth as the last one popped through today. It hurt so bad. I cried and Grandma rubbed some baby ora-jell on it.

I am getting around pretty good now. I roll where I want to go and can push myself around in circles. Aunt Stephie wants me to crawl but I'm not quite sure how to do it yet. Grandma says she's not sure she wants me to crawl because she'll have to chase me!

Monday is Daddy's last day at McKenzie. He will get to stay home with me for a few weeks before he starts his new job at Marist. We are going to have fun.

GRANDMA HEAVEN!

2008-06-12T20:31:00.000-07:00

THE SUN CAME OUT TODAY! GRANDMA TOOK ME FOR A RIDE IN THE STROLLER!

SOMETIMES, MY DADDY LETS ME WEAR HIS HAT!

GRANDMA LINDA AND ME!

Last week, Grandma Linda came and spent the whole week with me. I got to sleep in. She played with me all the time and we had so much fun.

My Daddy only has a few more days of school and then we can spend all day together. He starts his new job in August.

Mommy is still working long hours. Sometimes I don't even get to see her before I go to bed. She is almost through with her big project. I can't wait.

WATER BABY

2008-06-05T21:01:00.000-07:00

My grandpa took these pictures of me taking my bath. I've learned to really like taking baths. I'm going to learn to swim as soon as I can.

My Grandma Linda came home with us on Sunday. She has been hanging out with me this week. We have been having a lot of fun. She sings me a lot of songs. On Tuesday, my Ladybug Grandma came over and I was in "Grandma Heaven!"

HAPPY SPRING!

2008-05-28T21:34:00.000-07:00

THE FLOWERS ARE REALLY PRETTY
UNCLE PAUL TOOK THIS PICTURE!

I REALLY LIKE TO SHOW OFF MY TEETH!

I have been really busy this Spring. I went to San Francisco with Mommy and Daddy on the airplane. Mommy didn't do a very good job of taking pictures while we were there. I got to meet my other Great Grandpa and Great Grandma. They came all the way from Tennessee. I also got to meet my Uncle JR and Aunt Julie and cousin Isabelle. Aunt Beth and Aunt Sara had a commitment ceremony. We had a good time. I was a very good girl on the plane. The stewardess gave me some wings.

Daddy is changing jobs. He will be the assistant Principal at Marist High School next year. It is in Eugene and only a couple of miles from Grandma and Grandpa's house. He will get to spend a lot more time with me. On days that Mommy has to work late, he will be able to pick me up on the way home. Mommy had been working late all the time and on Saturday too. She has a BIG job to get done. When she is through, we will get to have more time to play.

Next weekend, we are going to Seattle. My Mommy and Daddy are going to a Mariners game and I get to stay with Grandma Linda and Grandpa Greg. Sunday is Daddy's birthday!

SEVEN MONTHS OLD!

2008-05-05T21:19:00.000-07:00

THIS GRASS TICKLES MY TOES!
MOMMY AND ME...CATCHING SOME RAYS!

JUST ME BEING CUTE!

Well, this weekend, I turned 7 months old. We had a special day on Sunday when we went to Albany to Aunt Erma's and Uncle Terry's. Actually, Erma is my grandmas cousin, but that is confusing to me so I'll just call them aunt and uncle. There were a lot of people there. We had dinner and a nice day in the sun. I was a very good girl.

I have been working on my sleeping skills. I'm happy to report that I can go to sleep by myself. I still like to be rocked but I'm learning independence. After my last 2 teeth came in, I'm sleeping a little better at night too. I have 4 teeth now.

I like to play with my toys and boss the dogs around. When they bark or whine, I tell them to hush!

MY TRIP TO GREAT GRANDMA'S!

2008-05-05T21:00:00.000-07:00

GETTING TO KNOW GG!
FOUR GENERATIONS
This is me with my Mommy, Grandma
and my Great Grandma

We had a nice "Girl's Trip" to Medford to meet my Great Grandma. She wants me to call her "GG " because I have so many grandmas. We stayed two nights in a hotel and I had a hard time sleeping because of all the strange noises. The first night I got to sleep with Mommy and the second night with Grandma.

We had a great time at my Great Great Aunt Ann's house. We had a nice lunch and I got to see my Grandmas cousins Bernie and Barbara.

Everybody thought I was very special. Especially GG. She said I was worth the wait. I gave her a red rose bush for her mothers day present. When the roses start growing, I'm going to pick her a flower.

"SITTING PRETTY"

2008-04-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

JUST PRACTICING MY SKILLS!

I've been working really hard on "sitting up" by myself. I'm getting pretty good at it. I like to have someone close by, just in case.

I've got a little runny nose these days. It's no fun. I DON'T like to get it wiped. I'm pretty crabby and I'm having a hard time sleeping these days. (I should say nights.)

Next weekend, I'm going to meet my Great Grandma Lewis. My Mommy and Ladybug Grandma is going to take me. She has been waiting 6 months to meet me.

I'M SIX MONTHS OLD!

2008-04-05T18:42:00.000-07:00

April 3rd, 6 months old!
This is my activity center at Grandma and Grandpa's!

Well, now that I'm a big girl of 6 months old, I'm learning how to do all sorts of new things. Aunt Stephie is trying to teach me to sit up by myself, but my bottom is too round. I need help. We played on the floor and she was so funny that I had to giggle.

I'm eating more food these days. Most of it is O.K., but I don't care for bananas and prunes. I really like peas and sweet potatoes. Grandma doesn't like it when I blow bubbles while she is trying to feed me.

Grandma said that when it stops raining and gets a little warmer, we can go for a walk in my stroller. She got me a new sun hat. I can't wait to wear it and go look at all the pretty flowers.

MY TRIP TO SEATTLE!

2008-03-25T20:56:00.000-07:00

My cousins Caleb and Keegan hunting Easter Eggs.
I'm giving my Aunt Amanda a big sloppy kiss.

Do you like my Easter Dress?

My Grandma Linda and Cousin Caleb.
(Isn't Grandma Linda's hair pretty?)

My Aunt Valerie and me!

Just chatting with Uncle David and Aunt Danielle!

This is my cousin Jake!

This is my Great Grandma Armstrong.

I'm so lucky to have so many grandmas.

As you can see, I had a very nice time in Seattle. I got to see all of my relatives. We went to a baby shower on Saturday and had an Easter brunch at Grandma Linda's on Sunday. I was a very good girl.

Today, I had my 6-month check up. I weigh 15 pounds and 12 ounces. I'm 26 1/4 " tall. I'm getting to be such a big girl. I get to eat more food now. I sure hope I like it. Mommy's milk is so good but I have to learn to eat vegetables.

HAPPY EASTER!

2008-03-22T21:01:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday my Mommy and Daddy took me to the mall and I sat on this huge bunny's lap. I look really small on his lap. I really am a big girl now. I have 2 teeth and I can roll all over the floor.

We are in Seattle this weekend. I hope all my relatives are impressed with how much I've grown.

Happy Easter to all!

CRABBY ABBY!

2008-03-18T21:03:00.000-07:00

I've been a little crabby the past couple of days. It's because I've been getting my first tooth! It's really cute. I've also eaten sweet potatoes. Mommy says that I might get to eat some fruit soon.

Do you like my new "Weenie Dog" outfit? It has a little puppy in the pocket. I like to chew on it.

We are going to Seattle for Easter. I get to see my Grandma Linda and Grandpa Greg and all my Aunts and Uncles and Great Grandma and Grandpa. See you soon!

My Mommy and Daddy both have a whole week off to spend with me. We're going to have lots of fun.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MOMMY AND DADDY!

2008-03-08T20:20:00.000-08:00

Today is my Mommy and Daddy's wedding anniversary. Daddy is out of town at a coaching conference. He is such a good coach that they ask him to be a speaker. With him out of town, Mommy and I spent the day with Grandma and Grandpa. We went to a home show. I was a very good girl. Everyone loved my outfit. (Especially the matching shoes!) On the way home, we stopped and had Chinese food. (Mommy, Grandma and Grandpa had Chinese food.)

When we got back to Grandma and Grandpa's I got to have cereal. See how good I am at eating real food! It's pretty good and in a week or so I get to try and have something called vegetables. Before you know it, I'll be eating anything I want.

Happy Anniversary Mommy and Daddy! Thank you for falling in love, getting married and giving me life! I love you!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUNT STEPHIE!

2008-03-05T15:21:00.000-08:00

Today is my Aunt Stephie's birthday. (Don't tell anyone, but she is 30!) She came to see me after she went to the dentist. She has a funny smile because her mouth was numb. She played with me in my doggie proof pen. We had a lot of fun.

I'M FIVE MONTHS OLD!

2008-03-03T21:11:00.000-08:00

DOES THIS DRESS MAKE MY LEGS LOOK FAT?

Today, I'm five months old. Time flies when I'm having so much fun. My favorite thing to do now is to pant like my dogs. Everyone thinks it's cute so I keep doing it. I also like to squeal. I'm learning how to sit up but I still need help. The other night, my Mommy gave me cereal. Boy was that yummy! It took me a while to figure out how to swallow it but once I got the hang of it, I ate it all!

NEW SHOES FOR ABBY!

2008-03-02T19:58:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time since my Grandma put a picture of me on the blog. She has been very busy because Grandpa has been going to a job downtown every day and she has to watch me all by herself. I keep her hopping.

I've been doing a lot of things to keep her entertained. I've learned how to make a lot of new sounds. She thinks I'm funny.

Today, we went to a place called Seven Feathers. We met a bunch of family from Medford and California. I got to meet 2 of my Great-Great Aunts, and a bunch of cousins. After we ate, my Grandma took me into a room and hung out while all the other adults went and played games. They put money in machines and most of the time they just walk away with nothing. My Mommy however was lucky and she got some money back out. She said she got enough money to buy me some new shoes!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

2008-02-14T21:06:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentines day everyone. My Daddy and I survived Mommy's trip to San Francisco, but we were sure glad to get her home.

Today, my Uncle Paul and Aunt Haley came over and played with me. My Aunt Jodi from South Carolina sent me a valentine card. I didn't get any candy because I don't have any teeth, but I'm working on them.

MY MOMMY'S THE GREATEST!

2008-02-10T12:17:00.000-08:00

In case you didn't know, my Mommy is the best in the whole wide world. She is so good at her job that they need her to go to San Francisco for 2 days. The bad part is that I have to stay home. Don't worry though, she has plenty of milk saved for me. (See I told you she was the best!) My Grandma is going to come to my house on Monday and my Daddy is going to stay home from work on Tuesday just to be with me. After all, it IS all about me!

MY FIRST SUPER BOWL

2008-02-03T22:23:00.000-08:00

Today was my very first Super Bowl Party. Since it was also my 4 month old birthday, my Mommy got birthday cake from Cold Stone. I couldn't have any but it sure looked good. The Party was at Aunt Stephie and Uncle Travie's. Grandma and Grandpa were there and "Uncle Mick" and "Aunt Jamie" came all the way from Seattle.

Things got pretty noisy. Auntie Stephie played with me. I laughed a lot and slobbered all over my clothes. Everyone says that I must be getting teeth. Watch out, when the teeth come in, I get to start to eat real food.

This is me relaxing on Daddy's lap watching the "Big Game!" It was a pretty exciting game. The Giants surprised a lot of people.

FOUR MONTHS OLD

2008-01-29T21:24:00.000-08:00

Today I had my 4 month check up. See how much I've grown. I now weigh 13 pounds and 10 ounces. I am 25 inches tall. I got shots in both legs. I got a lot of sympathy from my Grandma and Grandpa. My real Birthday is Super Bowl Sunday. Maybe we'll have a "mini party."

My Daddy had a meeting in Eugene and he came and got me when he was done. I like it on the days when Daddy gets me early. We get to hang out at home with my dogs and cats while Mommy is at work. I'm making all sorts of sounds now. They're hard to explain so I'll have to show you all the next time I see you.

SNOW DAY

2008-01-28T13:47:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, it snowed and snowed. All the schools in the area are closed today, except my Daddy's school! Here's a picture of me and my Grandpa in their back yard. A picture was necessary because after all, this was my first real snow.

On Friday, my Mommy and I went to Papa's Pizza for a birthday party for my friend Calin. He's a big boy. I think he is 7. That's really old. Grandma said that I get to have a birthday party in 8 months.

THREE MONTHS/THREE WEEKS

2008-01-23T17:45:00.000-08:00

Look at me! I have discovered my hands. I'm learning to suck my thumb. I have also learned that when I kick my feet in the bath tub, water splashes and Grandma laughs. Baths aren't so bad now.

Now I'm learning to say my prayers. Today I prayed that I would get to see Daddy tonight, and guess what! He came and picked me up after work. Mommy has a lot of meetings this week, but it is better than her going to San Francisco for a week.

THREE AND ONE HALF MONTHS OLD!

2008-01-17T11:11:00.000-08:00

We are losing track of the weeks thing, so we will post in months and weeks. Today, Grandma and Grandpa took me to I-Hop and Target. I was a very good girl. Grandpa said I have to wait until I'm older to eat pancakes but I get cereal when I'm 6 months old.

Grandma told me today, Jasper was waiting for me at the door. The dogs don't like it when I cry. They want to kiss me but they have bad breath.

DAY BY DAY

2008-01-12T22:21:00.000-08:00

We are getting into the routine of going to Grandma and Grandpa's every day. I'm getting better at nap time and I have nailed the smiling thing. Most of the time we just hang out. Mommy comes over at lunch time when she can.

Mommy hurt her back on Friday, so Grandma and Grandpa took me up to Daddy's school for the Basketball game. I was a very good girl. Some nice ladies held me. I think Daddy was proud of me because he showed me to everyone! Oh, the Eagles won the game too!

THREE MONTHS OLD TODAY!

2008-01-03T16:49:00.000-08:00

Laughing at my silly Grandpa!

Today I turn 3 months old. My Ladybug Grandma gave me a bath and I didn't cry! I also took a nap in the cradle. (I still prefer a lap.) I'm growing so fast. So much to learn, so little time!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2008-01-01T12:49:00.000-08:00

We just got home from Seattle and look what Grandma and Mom did to me! This year is going to be busy because I have a lot of stuff to learn.

I had a good time in Seattle, but my Grandpa Greg was very sick and he didn't get to rock me. I hope he gets better fast. Next time we go there, we will rock all day!

Tomorrow, both Mommy and Daddy have to go back to work so I get to go to Grandma and Grandpa's house. I'm going to miss Mommy and Daddy but I'm sure I'll get lots of hugs and kisses.

I'M 12 WEEKS OLD TODAY!

2007-12-26T23:45:00.000-08:00

My Mommy met me and daddy at Grandma's at lunch time so she could get in some cuddle time. I'm being a very good girl while Daddy is hanging out with me. We love to watch Sports Center and a little golf. Oh, the Food Network is pretty interesting too.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

2007-12-26T10:52:00.000-08:00

I'm all dressed up for Christmas day. We went to Grandma and Grandpa's house. (Ladybug Grandma) We will be going to Grandma Linda's house on Friday. Aunt Stephie and Uncle Travie were there and also Uncle Paul and Aunt Haley.

Aunt Stephie and Uncle Travie gave me this Glo Worm. His face lights up and he plays lullaby's. Pretty cute! They also gave me a lot of other noisy toys! The grown-ups ate ham and a lot of other stuff. Mommy said I get mine in a day or so. We had a lot of fun just being together.

AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT!

It was a long day and I couldn't stay awake for the family picture. Just wait until next year. I'll be able to open my own packages and play with all the boxes!

JUST ME AND MY MOMMY

2007-12-22T22:15:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Daddy took me shopping. We got Christmas Presents for Mommy. I was a good girl for him. Today Mommy and Daddy went on a date to the movies and I got to stay at Grandma and Grandpa's house. This is me getting a hug from Mommy when she got home. I think she missed me a little.

ELEVEN WEEKS OLD!

2007-12-19T16:36:00.000-08:00

Today, I am 11 weeks old. My Mom and Dad took me to see Santa. We had a nice little chat. I told him that I've been a real good girl. I haven't had a lot of chances to be bad yet.

My Mom goes back to work tomorrow and I get to hang out with Grandma and Grandpa. Daddy will be home for a couple of weeks after tomorrow and we are going to hang out together.

I'm getting pretty big these days. My Mom had to move the straps on my car seat! She has a bin that she is putting clothes that don't fit me anymore.

TODAY I'M 10 WEEKS OLD!

2007-12-12T19:26:00.000-08:00

I am 10 weeks old today and I got to hang out with my Grandpa while my Mom went to a meeting at her office.

Today I learned that when I smile and laugh, my Mom and Grandma and Grandpa go nuts. They make a huge fuss and take a lot of pictures.

Mommy said that I am doing a good job of sleeping at night. She has to go back to work next week. I'm going to miss her but Grandma said we can send her pictures of me when I do something cute!

GETTING IN THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT!

2007-12-08T14:37:00.000-08:00

I want to say hi to everyone and show off my snowman sleeper. There seems to be a lot of whispering lately. Today, my Mom and Dad went to Woodburn to go shopping. I got to stay with Grandma and Grandpa. I wonder what this shopping thing is all about?

Tonight, we are going to go over to Aunt Stephie's' and Uncle Travie's I get to meet Bogey. He is my dog Baxter's brother.

TWO MONTHS OLD!

2007-12-04T14:15:00.000-08:00

Just hanging out with Grandma!

Playing the waiting game!

(see last paragraph for explanation)

Today, it was off to the doctor for my 2 month check-up. I now weigh 11 pounds and 1 ounce. I've gained 4 whole pounds! I am 22 and 1/2 inches tall.

Life is very good. As long as my tummy is full and my diaper empty, I'm a pretty happy girl. I've decided that late night TV is kind of boring so I'm spending more of those hours sleeping.

I love music, so if you want to keep me happy, learn some cute songs to sing to me.

For those of you wondering, my little "poop" problem came to an end on Sunday night. I amazed my Mom and Dad with the fullest diaper they could ever imagine. It's hard to fit 8 days worth into one little diaper!

8 WEEKS OLD!

2007-11-28T15:49:00.000-08:00

Today, I am 8 weeks old. I accidentally smiled once, now everyone wants me to do it all the time. When I do, the camera starts flashing, so if I'm a little crossed-eyed, please forgive me.

Our trip to Seattle was so fun. I got to meet Grandpa Greg and a lot of Aunts and Uncles. I was the hit of the party. I was a very good girl, but it was a very long car trip. Mommy and Daddy love to show me off.

Mommy is feeling much better. We have a good time hanging out every day. Daddy misses me when he has to go to work, but he calls us when he can.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2007-11-22T20:43:00.000-08:00

Today was my first Thanksgiving. We went to Grandma and Grandpa's house for a big dinner. My Uncle Paul and Aunt Haley were there too. We watched a lot of football. I am now 7 weeks old.

Tomorrow, we are off to Seattle. It's a long ways. I think I might sleep a lot.

My Mom is feeling a lot better. She quit taking the medicine that was making her and me sick.

SIX WEEKS OLD

2007-11-20T22:51:00.000-08:00

I've been real busy the past couple of weeks. My Mom had her surgery on My 6 week birthday. It was a real long day, but she got to come home that night and here she is holding me. She's getting well now.

My Grandma Linda came all the way from Seattle to help us. She is feeling much better and now she has more hair than me! I get to go to Seattle the day after Thanksgiving and meet all of my relatives. They are giving me a big party! I'm so excited!!!

I'M FIVE WEEKS OLD!

2007-11-10T18:15:00.000-08:00

Relaxing with my Mom and my dog Baxter

Can you believe that I'm 5 weeks old already? My Mom says that I'm getting to be a better sleeper. My Daddy says that I'm beautiful and my Grandma Kay says that I'm the sweetest little girl ever!

I'm really growing. I weigh 9 pounds already. I don't really like my bath, but Mommy said I have to have them anyway. I don't like to have my clothes changed either.

My Mommy has to have surgery on Wednesday to have her gall bladder removed. I'm going to miss her because she has to be gone all day. I'm sure my Grandma will take good care of me.

LITTLE MISS LADYBUG!

2007-11-04T20:31:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, while the Oregon Ducks were beating the Sun Devils, My Mommy and Daddy took me to Salem and I posed for some pictures. This is me in my Ladybug Costume. It was kind of big, but everyone thought I looked cute anyway.

FOUR WEEKS OLD!

2007-10-30T22:55:00.001-07:00

Look at me! I will be four weeks old tomorrow. Today, I got to go to IHOP with Grandma and Grandpa and Mom. My Mom and I got to hang out with Grandma and Grandpa all day while Brady was at the vet for his check up. Baxter got to come too because he cried.

I am trying real hard to let my Mom sleep a little more at night. It seems like I'm learning something new every day.

THREE WEEKS OLD

2007-10-24T18:44:00.001-07:00

Today, I am 3 weeks old. I got to go to the dentist with my Mom. They gave me my very own tooth brush. The only problem is, I don't know what a tooth is yet. I'm wearing the cute outfit that my Grandma Linda brought me last week. Don't you think I'm cute?

I got to hang out with my Grandpa Bob and Grandma Kay while my Mom took a little nap. She's pretty tired because she's had a little problem with her gall bladder. The doctor is going to fix it so she doesn't have to go back to the emergency room in the middle of the night.

My Grandma and Grandpa's dogs, Jasper and Schatzi think I'm a squeaky toy. When I get bigger, I can pet them and they will know that I'm a human.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS

2007-10-20T12:34:00.000-07:00

I've been wondering where my Daddy goes on Friday nights. Did you know that he is a football coach, and on Friday night they play games. Last night I got to go to my very first football game. We took a very long trip to Alsea. It was kind of cold and it rained a few times. I was a very good girl. After the game I got to go out to the middle of the field and give my Daddy
a kiss and congratulate him for McKenzie's 34-32 victory. Next week I get to go to Daddy's school for their Homecoming game.

My grandma Linda, Aunt Amanda, Aunt Valerie and cousin Keegan came all the way from Seattle to see the game and play with me today.

TWO WEEKS OLD!

2007-10-18T17:05:00.000-07:00

Today, I had my 2 week check-up. I am a growing girl. I now weigh 7 pounds and 9 ounces. I am 20 1/2 inches tall. I still get a little confused about day and night. I'm trying hard to get things right, but there is so much to learn.

SEVEN DAYS OLD!

2007-10-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

After my Mom and Grandma Kay drug me to the mall for my first visit to Gymboree, I got to go see my Grandpa and pose for some more pictures. My mom had to buy me some little clothes because the 0-3 month things are just too big!

2007-10-07T19:53:00.000-07:00

Abby with her beautiful eyes open

LIFE IS GOOD!

2007-10-07T19:46:00.000-07:00

We are happy to report that the new family is getting along very well. Today, we just let them be a family without outside visitors. Abby is nursing like a pro. Rick is changing diapers like he's been doing it all of his life and Mandy is the most amazing mother. We are getting a lot of pictures so if you want more than I post, let me know, I'll be glad to email some.

INTRODUCING: ABIGAIL BREE GARDNER

2007-10-03T23:10:00.000-07:00

Our little family

Sleeping in my Grandpa's arms

Our darling Ladybug has finally made her appearance. She weighed in at 7 pounds and 1 ounce and is 20 inches long. She made her debut at 7:42pm on her grandma and grandpa's 32nd anniversary, October 3rd. She is the most beautiful little girl and already has won the hearts of everyone she has met. We will post more pictures soon!

READY FOR BABY!

2007-09-09T21:13:00.000-07:00

We spent today watching the Seattle Seahawks win their opening day game and putting the finishing touches on the nursery. We can finally say that the only thing needed is our precious little Lady. We think the nursery turned out really cute.

The green sign says "I'm a Dream Come True" and the black sign says "My Prince Did Come, His name is Daddy."
Butterflies, Dragonflies and Flowers, Oh My!

All ready for my Daddy to read me my first story!

SECOND SHOWER!

2007-09-09T20:50:00.000-07:00

Rick's Sister Amanda made this Cake

(the baby and blanket are edible)

Rick, Mandy and Hostess Jamie

On Sunday, September 2nd, Mandy was showered with more gifts in Tacoma. Her friend Jamie was the hostess and all of Ricks family from the Seattle/Tacoma area were in attendance. Stephanie and I drove up from Eugene to take part in the celebration. It was a beautiful day, the food was delicious and it was great spending time with Rick's family.

NURSERY/SHOWER #1

2007-08-24T21:07:00.000-07:00

Mandy at her first shower with the darling decorations and Ladybug cake that Tiah made.

This is the nursery so far. We still have to hang the stuff on the walls and paint the bookshelf. We'll post more pictures when the whole room is done. Boy, are we having fun!

MANDY'S BELLY

2007-08-22T16:59:00.000-07:00

Mandy on her birthday, July 31st.

KEEPING UP

2007-08-22T12:49:00.000-07:00

I've started this blog to allow all family and friends to keep up with our precious new little ladybug.

Over the past few days, we have painted the nursery. (It's Green and Yellow!) Last night, Mandy and I hung the border. Friday, we will place the furniture and pictures will follow.

This is a very exciting time for all of us. We have waited so long for this miracle to enter our lives. I will do my best to keep this site updated for all to enjoy.