IHOP Adventure

Jared and I decided to venture out today to the local IHOP after getting some coupons in the mail.  Parker loved having breakfast for dinner, and he loved the Rootie Jr.  We let him practice eating blueberry compote with a spoon, and he was a big fan!

Parker's First Steps

Parker has been getting braver and braver.  On St. Patty's day, I received a text from Ms. Melody - our daycare provider, letting me know that Parker had walked half the length of her couch.  We were excited and hoping to see more walking.  At home, he pretty much did none.  Apparently, all he needed was from fresh country air at Grandma and Pawpaw's house!  Parker did lots of walking while we were there.  Here's video proof!

Also, here a a few pictures of some of those first steps.  We are so excited that our little man is growing up!

 Practicing with Pawpaw and Grandma

Bundle of Joy

We were so thrilled to be able to throw a shower for our friends, Jessica and Esera.  Our/Their friends, Mike and Susie also helped.  Sweet, Emma Mazy Leota is due to arrive in April (although she seemed a little anxious to arrive earlier this month).  We are so thrilled for them and this wild ride they are about to begin.  Esera has been a close friend of Jared's for years.  We were sad when he decided to take a leave from AFD to go to Iraq, but we were so pleased when he returned with Jessica!  She's such a cool cat, and she and Esera seem to be so great for each other.  It was a treat to have their friends in our home to celebrate this wonderful time in their lives.

 The boys and the boys with Jessica

 Awe - love this!

 Jessica's family was here from Alaska!  They are coming back and bringing moose and 

smoked salmon for us to sample.

 The very gorgeous cake - made by Gabriel's in Marietta (above).  

Susie made the great centerpiece (below).

Sandi is...losing count!

 Parker had a great time with "Aunt" Ashley.

 The birthday boy!

 Jared, Me and my GIANT Japanese beer.

 Wait -- who's 33 here?

This year's birthday was really perfect!  My husband took Parker to daycare, came home and cooked me a delicious breakfast, my dreary hair got a well deserved (and needed) color boost, and I  had dinner with some of my very favorite people - the Corns and Ashley Murrell!  Jared was so sweet and so attentive.  When I arrived from getting my hair done, Parker was dressed and the diaper bag was ready, so that we could get out of the door.