Bella's friend party

This year for Bella's birthday party with friends we had a party at the aquarium. She was able to invite 3 girl friends from school and the 4 boy friends she has. It worked out great that the boys were just as entertained as the girls. Surprisingly I think their favorite activity was playing hide and seek under the pizza table.


She was so happy to wear such a fancy party dress.

I love a cupcake cake!
Bella and Olivia
Everyone enjoying pizza




They went on a scavenger hunt through the aquarium to learn more about the animals.

Spoiled even more-


I know I am so in the way but I LOVE the look on Bella's face. That is joy.

My baby is 5

Bella turned 5 on Jan 16. It was a very big day for her, one that she had been looking forward to since her last birthday. The day started with presents from mom and dad, and ended with more presents and cake and ice cream with all the family.







Corys mom made this great Barbie cake for Bella.



Her new prized possession - a pillow pet

Bella and Branide went to color me mine earlier in the month and this was what she painted.

According to Bella she can now do everything "because I'm five". In fact she wants to know when she gets her own phone. I am amazed and greatful everyday for the gift of Bella. She is a very loving, happy little girl and I am so lucky to be her mom.

Bella's new bed

Bella has been growing so much lately and I knew her toddler bed was getting uncomfortable. We were just hoping to make it until after Christmas. I had an old bed that we were storing at my moms (thanks mom) and I got Bella a new bedding set for part of her birthday. She is so happy and loves being a "big kid".


I just love this picture.

Christmas 2010

This year for Christmas we had Christmas Eve at our house,with my family and Cory's family over for breakfast on Christmas morning. Except my mom has to come to everything, because I love her.
Bella had a Barbie Christmas and loves the magical things that Santa picked for her. And yes even the dogs get their own stockings.











Christmas day afternoon we all went to moms house where opened presents and ate even more. My mom made amazing quilts for the grandkids. What a great new snuggle!

Family pictures

This year for family picture we went to Memory Grove Park where Cory and I got married. It was a cold day and we were trying to beat the rain but Janelle did a great job and there were a lot of wonderful pictures to choose from. I can't believe how much Bella has changed over the year.

Halloween 2010

This year for Halloween Bella was a 50's girl. Yes, this is a costume that I spent weeks talking her into. We did the ARUP parade for the last time this year, which I still can't believe. She ended up loving her costume, and even the rain didn't stop us.





School friends.





She loves to strike a pose