The Redingtons

Luau Fun

2011-08-16T11:36:00.003-06:00

Here is a blurry pic of our cute 2 year old at the Pitre Luau a month or so ago. Grace found some of Kenna's moon boots in her closet and was trotting around in those all day (in the 95 degree weather I might add)...too bad we didn't get a picture of that.

And last but not least here is a picture of Grace on the bear statue at Aspen Grove family camp. She is growing like a weed :)

Claire Bear

2011-08-16T10:00:00.003-06:00

Isn't she adorable?! Updated pictures of Gracie will be posted tomorrow.

Don't you wish they could stay this little forever? A tear comes to my eye every time I see this picture. What a special time for a mother and her child.

We've MOVED!

2011-08-16T09:23:00.005-06:00

The past few years have been a whirlwind for Mike and I. Since 2009 we have been through losing Mike's job, to moving in with his parents, to Sue getting a new position with the Governor's office, to Mike attending and completing his training, to Mike getting a new job with the University of Utah Healthcare, to moving into a rental home in Riverton, to having a brand new beautiful baby girl and to now...purchasing our new home in Riverton!! We have been through ups and downs and everything in between but we finally feel completely settled. We have everything we could possibly ask for...healthy and happy children, a wonderful home and fantastic jobs.

LOVE LOVE the gas stove and double oven.

It's been a long time.....

2011-08-16T09:08:00.003-06:00

Yes indeed it's been a long time and I am embarrassed to say that our little Claire Bear is almost 4 months old and I haven't even added her to our blog. So here she is! Enjoy...........

I must say she has changed a lot in the past few months but I will post more pictures tomorrow. :)

We LOVE cousins!

2010-10-11T12:42:00.004-06:00

While Mike worked hard in the backyard building Clark's shop (and I stayed home to sleep off a bad cold) Grace enjoyed baking some cupcakes with her cousins and "Aunt eesha" aka Aunt Elleisha.

Crystal and Grace adding sprinkles to their creations.

As you can see...she enjoyed not only baking it but eating it as well.

While daddy and uncle clark are working hard... you will find Grace and Crystal giggling and smiling on the swing set.

And sippin' on their slurpees.....

And even coloring some pictures!

I love watching these girls grow up together. I can already tell they will be best friends forever. Thanks Elleisha for carrying my daughter to and from 7-11....while pushing Cynthia in the stroller and most likely holding Crystal's hand while you walk. LOL You are superwoman!

Oldies but Goodies

2010-08-25T13:29:00.003-06:00

I love coming across pictures I didn't know about (these were taken at least 6 months ago). Mike must have snapped these while I was at work one day.

It's a GOOD thing our little Ace is so calm. The poor dog just endures Gracie's torture. Although Grace is learning (after being disciplined) that she can't irritate the dog...it scares me to death to think that Ace might "snap" one day.

AHHHH!! Seriously, poor Ace!

I have a feeling Ace got some good licks in.

Best buddies

2010-08-17T09:32:00.004-06:00

On Saturday night Mike and I got the opportunity to watch "Kenna"who is one week (to the day) older than Grace. Most of you probably don't know this but Grace is SO incredibly shy. She is completely attached to her "Momma", "Dadda", "Pa" and "Nana" so we were a little unsure how this night was going to go. Fortunately, Grace and McKenna had an absolute blast and were up playing until 11:30pm. Seriously, Grace (nor Kenna) had ever been up nearly that late...ever! I can't wait to see these two grow up together..they are already BFF's for life!

Grace was so excited to actually have someone sit at her table with her. McKenna would point to the chair and tell Grace to "sit".

Playing with your friends toys is always so much more fun than playing with your own toys!

3 Years Come and GONE

2010-07-07T13:57:00.005-06:00

Today is my anniversary and I am filled with complete happiness and love for this man.

It seems like yesterday I was doing this.....

And then this....

And then this bundle of joy entered our lives.....

And last BUT certainly not least, little Gracie was a true blessing from our Heavenly Father.

The pieces of our little puzzle are complete!

Mike, thank you for being the incredible man you are. Grace is so lucky to have you as her example, best friend, and daddy. WE LOVE YOU!

Pool Fun

2010-07-07T13:13:00.004-06:00

Yep, we love the pool and sprinklers, and the slide in the pool and the ball that sprays water and even the watering can when mom is trying to hydrate the flowers BUT funny thing is: Grace just started NOT liking the bath??!! I don't get it either.

All we have to say is "CHEESEY FACE" and this is what we get.

And yes...no need for applause...I planted the flowers you see. Well, ok ok ok my mother in law may have paid for them and told me where to place the exact flowers so they look perfect but I'm the one who got her fingers dirty!! We have people knock on the door and tell my in-laws how incredible their landscaping is but don't worry..I pat myself on the back for it! :)

The zoo with my pal

2010-07-07T12:39:00.004-06:00

We purchased a season pass for the Hogle Zoo this year. Grace enjoys watching the other kids probably more than the animals so I'm not sure if its more fun for me or her!

This is McKenna, Gracie, and Mike looking for some baby tigers. I think Kenna found one!

"Hellllooooo baby leaopard!" Grace was fascinated by the leopard who was lounging against the glass.

Welcome to the world Baby Zuri...by far the cutest baby elephant I have ever seen. Zuri is especially cute when she plays with her big ball and jumps in and out of her water/mud pit.

CHEESE!!

This was a great zoo day with fabulous friends!

18 months old

2010-05-03T11:07:00.005-06:00

I can never get enough of this adorable toddler. Bella Blu Photography (aka the beautiful and talented Denise) is remarkable with her camera ALTHOUGH I have a very uncooperative little girl when it comes to getting her portrait taken. I just wish I had a picture with her sweet smile and maybe even some teeth to show off. Maybe next time Denise!! AND seriously you MUST check out Denise's photography blog. This past weekend she shot a wedding and her pictures are literally breathtaking. If anyone needs their family photo updated or anything else...CALL HER!

BELLA BLU PHOTOGRAPHY
Denise Harkey
801-361-2498

This picture was edited so nicely. I love the antique look.

And again...the "closed mouth" tactic!! Although I love love those little pigtails. :)
I love how sweet this picture is.
OH YES! Finally a smiling picture....but not at the camera.
And last but not least - a wardrobe change. I loved this little outfit but unfortunately Grace was DONE and not having anymore pictures. So this was the best we could do. BUMMER!

Loving the sun...and the slide!

2010-04-22T17:01:00.004-06:00

Grace is always on the go-go-go! She is still not talking much but she sure has a lot to say - I just wish they were things I could understand. I would love to know what she is thinking. Most moms are cursing me b/c they are complaining that their kid won't shut up...I, on the other hand, can't wait for this little one to start talking in FULL sentences or maybe even a few words other than uh oh and DOG! :)

Grace goes down this slide over and over and over and over...get the idea??! The other day she did it for 35 minutes straight. I was getting so dizzy just watching her.

My Easter Dress

2010-04-13T09:24:00.003-06:00

I fell in love with this Easter dress for Gracie. Doesn't she look precious??! These pictures are for you mom and dad. We miss you and love you!

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-04-13T09:09:00.005-06:00

For some reason Grace enjoyed throwing her eggs like they were balls rather than checking for a sweet surprise inside. Needless to say we didn't come home with very many "sweet surprises" - thanks heavens!! Easter was spent at my sisters home. We enjoyed dinner, the egg hunt and two puppies snarling and fighting with one another....actually it was just my puppy doing the snarling.

I found one!

Here is Easton looking for the eggs that Uncle Mike "hid just for him."

Growing Like a Weed

2010-03-23T14:57:00.004-06:00

The sun is finally out (well depending on the day) so we are taking advantage of it! Gracie is now 16 months old. She loves going outside, green beans, dancing to Yo Gabba Gabba, saying "dog", her dad (& mom too BUT mostly her dad), talking on any telephone, did I mention dancing??!!, and all kinds of berries!!

Our first attempt at pigtails and it just barely worked.

Best buddies! Grace is now at the age where she loves to play with our dog. Throwing the ball, tugging on a sock and chase are their favorite games!

BUBBLES!!

We love our shoppin' cart!!

Hawaii

2010-01-14T14:50:00.009-07:00

**Be prepared for a lot of pictures. Mike and I were very lucky to have planned and prepared for this trip since February 09. For those of you who don't know, Mike lost his job a few months ago and this Hawaii trip was somewhat on the rocks...thankfully we worked hard to be able to still head on our trip and enjoy every second of it.

This fountain was easily an hours worth of fun for Grace.
This is our resort, Marriott's Ko'Olina Beach Club Resort, on the island of Oahu.
I really wish Mike and I would have taken pictures of our room on the first day but we slacked and snapped shots on the last day while we were trying to pack up...soooo please excuse the mess. The picture was taken right as you walk through the door.

Bathroom vanity

Tub looking into the bedroom

This living area is right off the kitchen
She wasn't a fan of the sand at first but tolerated it thereafter. I don't think she ever really "enjoyed" the sand. The feeling of being dirty or having things on her fingers doesn't appeal to Grace much. LOL

Just soakin' in some rays but of course she was lathered up with sunscreen and I don't think there was anyway the sun could break through that barrier! Translation: mom put A LOT on.
This resort had the neatest pools. Here is a picture of Grace and I under a little cave and you can see the water slide in the background. I can't wait to take my children when they are older and can truly appreciate all of the man-made waterfalls, slides and caves this beach club offers.
"Give me 5!"

Grace and I on the rocks with some beautiful scenery. It was a little overcast outside on this particular day. The perfect day for a walk on the beach...so that's what we did!

Precious!

It's "the" face again.........after thinking about it, I think Grace gets this from her dad! :)
This is a must see! Mike and I enjoyed everything about the PCC.

This is Gracie anxiously awaiting for the water parade to begin.

Each water float had dancers from the different islands of Tonga, Samoa, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji and Hawaii.

We also made a stop at the Laie Hawaii Temple. The temple is closed due to some remodeling for the next 18 months but the grounds have been kept up impeccably.

We actually ate cooked shrimp scampi from this rundown RV that has been ravaged with graffiti by tourists from around the world (we received rave reviews from the hotel staff on Giovanni's Shrimp Truck). I must admit it was delicious, although I did sanitize after. Ewww!!

Our resort hosted a Luau called the Fia Fia Polynesian Dinner Show. Mike and I sat by a bankruptcy attorney from Washington who bragged about how well business has been this year (in light of the failing economy). That guy wasn't the greatest company to have while eating dinner and "trying" to enjoy a fun show.

While in Honolulu we felt the need to visit the Pearl Harbor Memorial and indeed it was very special. Grace was a pure gem which also made our visit extremely memorable.

Part of the USS Arizona.

These monuments (behind Mike) post information about the fallen boats, submarines, planes and soldiers who died not only in the Pearl Harbor attack but also during the World War.

I love this picture.

And lastly, we visited the Dole (pineapple) Plantation.

We paid $15.00 for a 10 minute ride on this train. Was it worth it?? Come on we're on vacation..of course it was!

MAHALO!!!

Cold Winter Days

2010-01-13T16:59:00.005-07:00

We have bundled up this year because it has been so frigidly cold lately. Grace enjoys being outside so it is always a production getting out the door. Here are a few cute pics on a day that actually turned out to be quite beautiful.

Here is our boy Ace!

This must be Grace's thinking face....

And this......

I am not sure where this face came from but I have a feeling her cousin Easton has been influencing her.

This is Easton as a baby...I wish I could find a better photo.

Vance Family Christmas Party

2010-01-13T16:27:00.005-07:00

It is always nice to have a delicious warm meal followed by a rousing White Elephant gift exchange. My nieces and nephews are all growing up so fast - hopefully you will be able to recognize them mom and dad!
From the left: Dallin, Stephanie, Keira, Morgan, Lyndon, Chelsie, Eridee, Taylor and Justin.
"Is that you Ace?" No Grace thats Boo Radley..the newest edition to the Earl Family. I wish I had a picture of Boos face because he is adorable.

Teagie (Marquita is probably cursing me under her breath right now..she hates that nickname)

Easton, Marquita, Jeff and Lauren admiring their brand new Christmas train. WOOT WOOT Easton insists that this is "his" train.

Don't you just want to squeeze these cheeks??!!

Here is the cute fleece scarf that was passed and passed and passed around. As you can see Carlee is eyeing it very closely and that lucky bugger stole it away from me at the very last second.

Lauren is in deep conversation with her uncle Mikey.

I LOVE LOVE this girl.

Our 2009 Christmas

2010-01-13T16:02:00.004-07:00

Our day looked a lot like this.....

Lots of smiles and pictures with Gracie's tongue sticking out...she was in a weird (but so fun) mood.

Lots of fun boxes to open and paper to run through.

And lots of play time with cousins.

Grace was so excited for this vacuum that she couldn't even keep her eyes open for a picture!

Also, this whole Christmas holiday I have been calling this little girl "Gracie Lou Who". With her pigtails and cute little cheeks she really looks like Cindy Lou Who from "How the Grinch Stole Christmas". Don't you think??

Our Family Pictures

2009-11-18T17:04:00.008-07:00

I wish Grace was looking at the camera but the colors are gorgeous.

I absolutely adore this man. He pretty much makes me smile like this everyday.

UGH...the dog wouldn't cooperate for family pictures. He also looks like a rag-a-muffin.

I just love this picture.

Strike a Pose

2009-11-18T08:22:00.005-07:00

Can't believe this girl is one. Unfortunately, this is one of the only shots Grace was smiling in. This truly captures her cute little personality.

So serious and actually quite sad. She looks like one of those kids that needs a donation for food. Feed me!

Another true capture of Gracie...her tongue sticking out.

And this was her saying "you won't get a smile outta me today!"

I loved the colors in this one.

Don't mess with........

2009-11-04T09:02:00.005-07:00

Wonder Woman!!!

Gracie may be petite but she can show you whose boss!!

Since we started walking, its been a whole new world for mommy and daddy. Grace has suffered from some massive ear infections so we are headed to the hospital for tubes on Monday 11/9...wish us luck!

Checkin' out her stash...

Grace turns one in just a few days. We have been working on this number 1 for weeks and she finally has it down!

Of course, Ace had to be in on the action. AND of course he was a San Diego Charger Football player...yes that's his personalized jersey. LOL

Mike and I went to a small Halloween party on Friday night. Unfortunately, all of my fun costumes are in storage right now (sigh) so we trudged to Zurchers and found Mardi Gras apparel. It worked...I guess.

Here is Grace and her cousin, Crystal. They LOVE being together. (As you can tell Elleisha is due in 1 week with Crystal's unborn sister, Cynthia). We can't wait to meet you baby Cynthia!!

My happy girl!

These two are best buddies.

I am almost ONE!

2009-10-14T16:17:00.003-06:00

Check out our "sneak peek". Grace got her 1 year photos done by the amazingly, incredible, super-duper Denise with Bella Blu Photography. It was cold, windy, and a little rainy but she was a trooper. This picture of Mike holding Grace's hand is precious! I will post more pictures in a few weeks when Denise gets done editing them.

http://bellabluphotographyblog.blogspot.com/

Me and my ponytail

2009-09-22T10:21:00.003-06:00

Little girls are so fun. I have been waiting for this day and it has finally come! THE PONYTAIL!! Our little Gracie is getting so big. She is now 10 months old but still wearing 6 month clothes..just a petite little thing. Grace loves to clap, squeel, say "da da" (we are working on "ma ma" daily but I think she is just teasing me by not saying it!!), crawl, walk from one piece of furniture to the next and laugh. Grace also LOVES books, dancing and singing. She is also attached to the dreaded BINKY. We absolutely adore this sweet girl.

Quick Trip to Jackson Hole, Wyomin'

2009-08-13T14:40:00.015-06:00

For those of you who know Mike and I, you wouldn't consider us "campers". So this is what we call "roughin" it....

Yep, it was rough indeed...we had to share a bathroom with four other cabins.

Here is Mike and Grace "making do" with our king size bed in our 5 star cabin.

But no...really...this was my second trip to Jackson, WY and it is absolutely gorgeous. Mike and I had the privilege of attending our good friends wedding. The view was picturesque and we enjoyed spending time with Mike's best friends.

I'm pretty sure it is illegal to leave Jackson WITHOUT a picture of ourselves at the infamous Antler Arch. So here it is!

Camille was glowing and she looked gorgeous!

JUST MARRIED - Introducing Jordan & Camille Kuretich!

Mike and the "Shaw-eans" (yes both of them are named Shawn/Sean)

Judge Memorial (the High School Mike went to) picture with wives/girlfriends & baby included. Gracie is the first of her kind from this group.

Yo Gamma Gamma

2009-07-30T16:19:00.008-06:00

***Apparently the show is called YO GABBA GABBA!! Thanks Tiff for setting me straight and teaching me how to be a "good mom"!! LOL I was typing too fast yesterday.....ok Tiff..that is my excuse.

Grace has found a new passion and love for a simple show called Yo Gamma Gamma. Whenever I turn it on her eyes are glued to the TV. Actually, during the entire show her eyes won't leave the screen yet she walks in circles around the ottoman. It is quite funny. But truly...how can it be that my almost 9 month old enjoys this show? It's a mystery.

"Oh my favorite show! Thanks Mom!"

Halfway around....

"I'm almost where I started and my eyes haven't even left the screen yet. YES!"

Still going....

Must be a commercial.....

Time for bed.

Fun in the VERY hot sun

2009-07-06T11:45:00.011-06:00

Our July 4th weekend was very eventful. My family, Marquita's family, Shawn's family and Justin's family drove to St. George to celebrate together AND to see our Grandpa Murdoch who is living there with my Uncle Cam. The weekend was packed full of eating out, pool, 4th of July festival, Tuacahn play and visiting grandpa. The kids had a blast getting reacquainted after not seeing eachother for 2 years (since my wedding - my anniversary is tomorrow...YAY!!). I am going to attach a bunch of pictures (we missed you Morgan, Steph and Keira!!) Love you mom & dad!

Marquita, Lilia and the little boys enjoying the sun.

My brother Shawn with his youngest son Xavier.

Hannah and Lauren.

Gracie enjoying the view from her floatie.
Mitchell, Shawn's oldest, posed just long enough for me to snap one shot of him! Thanks Mitch!

As you can tell by Grace's flushed cheeks it was 100 degree weather. Thank goodness Aunt Lilia was there to keep her cool.

Grace is at the age where she just wants to be held by mom and dad. During this trip she allowed people to hold her for a short time. If you weren't holding her then she was probably smiling, laughing or waving at you though! She is our little sweetheart.
Gracie and Natalia.

Jeff, Taylor, Justin and Carlee at the festival.

Justin and Eridee

Dallin is such a good cousin.

Here is our beloved Grandpa Murdoch. Isn't this a nice photo of him mom?? This is the only living grandparent that Mike and I have so this is a trip we will cherish.

It was so special to be able to introduce Grace to her great grandpa. I hope she never forgets that moment.

Grandpa surrounded by family - just what he loves!

Mike with his new best buddy, Xavier.

Natalia and Lauren at Tuacahn. We saw Footloose and it was incredible!! It is a "must see" show if you will be in St. George this summer.

Xavier would not allow a picture of his face so the back of his head must do.

As you can tell, it was 11pm at night and I was still sweating like a pig.

Dad, you remember this highchair??? Yep, this is the one you sat in 55 years ago...hee hee

PHEWW!! I told you there would be a bunch of pictures. Happy 4th of July and Happy Birthday Mom!

Redington Family Reunion in Idaho

2009-07-02T11:08:00.005-06:00

Every June Mike and I attend the family reunion where we don't know 95% of the family who attend. I must say Gracie is sure an ice breaker. I think this year I met more people then ever and we had such a nice time.

One of our recent family pictures. This is for you Joni...who complains that I never post pictures of myself. Waving is another thing Grace has learned but everytime we try to video it or capture it on camera she won't perform...that stinker!

Grace is so close to crawling. She moves herself backwards and rolls herself where she needs to go. She just hasn't figured out how to move her knees forward.

Elleisha (Mike's sister who is expecting her 2nd little girl in November), Clark and adorable 16 month old Crystal

Shannon and Kaelynn (Mike's sister and niece). I ACTUALLY got Kaelynn to "let" me take a picture of her. :)

And here is Grace trying to eat everything in sight. P.S. an update to an earlier post:
Grace LOVES her food, it only took 4 weeks of force feeding my child daily. UGH!!

I love my family.

Kaelynn, Crystal and Grace are such sweet cousins. It will be so fun to watch them grow up together.

Mommy and Gracie

And here is the last picture of the day. After a long drive Grace and grandma chose to relax on the bed with their favorite pasttime....books!!

Our happy girl

2009-06-04T12:09:00.004-06:00

Mike, Grace and I attended the 10th Annual Memorial Day BBQ. Grace was able to play on the grass with her best friend McKenna. Well, I guess they didn't "play" but they exchanged a few love taps and baby gibberish. This picture is too cute for words.

Pool Day

2009-06-01T13:09:00.003-06:00

Grace spent her first day in the pool and LOVED it! This is her 0-3 month bathing suit she is wearing (thanks Jen!!). I feel like my 7 month old baby is getting so big but when I dress her up in her 3 month clothing I realize how petite she really is. If I could only get her to eat her baby food I think she would fill out....anyone have any ideas?? Grace will not allow me to feed her with a spoon, so we tried the fresh food binky feeder (she hates that now). She will only eat things that she can hold onto...so we have now ventured to the gerber graduate crackers and such. It is very frustrating! I hope she doesn't become a picky eater.

Grace and her buddy Nathanial. It was overcast outside but still warm out so we took advantage of the day.

Don't you love the hat?!!

Grace is holding her arms out because she wants Nathanial to hold her. LOL

Lots to catch up on.

2009-05-08T14:46:00.021-06:00

A lot has happened the past month for the Redington/Vance family.

Yesterday my niece, Chelsie, got married to Lyndon Garrett. They are the sweetest couple and we couldn't be happier for them. Congrats Chels! We love you.

Mike and I took Grace to her six month appt and much to our surprise the doctor told us she has an ear infection....how can you tell your baby is sick or hurting when they are always so happy???!!! She is now on an antiobiotic and close to feeling 100%. We also got the doctors blessing to start her on some cereal. Here are some pictures. We laughed so hard. You would think we were trying to feed her liver and onions or something. We have realized that our baby is VERY expressive (those were Marquita's words and I couldn't agree more with her).

Grace with her daddy. She has no idea whats comin'.

Still as happy as a clam....

What did you do to me???

I like this spoon, can I hold it?

Do I have to swallow???

I just don't trust you guys anymore.

My mom and dad were in town during the Easter holiday. Their being in town was the perfect opportunity for Gracie to be blessed. It was a very special day. Grace was surrounded by family who loves her very much. I was honored to have my dad here to administer the blessing. My parents are now serving an 18 month mission for the LDS church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. We miss them so much but are so proud of them.

Here are some random six month pictures.

Correction

2009-04-09T13:20:00.001-06:00

I wrote down the website for Bella Blu Photography wrong and I can't figure out how to edit my post....LOL

www.bellabluphotographyblog.blogspot.com

Our beauty at 5 months old

2009-04-09T10:22:00.007-06:00

Gracie got her pictures done by the incredible Bell Blu Photography (check out Denise's blog http://www.bellbluphotographyblog.blogspot.com/). The pictures turned out amazing and I am having a very hard time choosing my favorites. Grace looks like such a little lady and I love these pictures because it truly shows her cute personality.

UPDATE!!

2009-03-23T07:10:00.002-06:00

Grace is rolling all by herself! Mike placed her on her tummy Saturday evening to get some dreaded "tummy time" in for the day and to his surprise she got some gusto and rolled onto her back. He got all excited and yelled for me to come and see. We placed her on her tummy again and then she showed mommy what a big girl she is!! And then we did it again....yep she did it!! The really cute thing is that after she rolls, she gets the biggest smile on her face cause she knows how excited mom and dad are.

I guess leaving the baby on the bed alone isn't such a good idea anymore....

Like I promised....

2009-03-20T14:36:00.003-06:00

"Dare me?? I'll do it!"

Sooo close!!

"Mom, could ya put the camera down and help me out??"

TA-DAH!!

2009-03-18T13:19:00.003-06:00

Ok ok ok I know..it has been a long time. I am back to work so the days and weeks just seem to fly by. I am a little mad at myself because I haven't been photographing Grace like I should. The world needs to see her adorable face at least once a week, right??? So you say, "come on Sue!! Blog more!" I am going to try very hard to update you more often! I have pictures that I will upload tonight.

Being back to work brings mixed emotions. Generally, I am so busy that I don't have much time to get emotional but there are those moments when I sigh a little. Everyday I get out of here by 4:30pm so I can rush to kiss some little baby cheeks. I truly never knew motherhood could bring so much. I mean I thought a puppy brought me joy but being Grace's mom doesn't even compare to being Ace's mom. Ya I know, Ace and Grace, its funny blah blah blah. LOL

Grace is still a very happy baby. She laughs and smiles constantly. She is so close to rolling over but not quite there yet. Her daddy loves to be with her all morning, he has finally gotten the chance to really bond with her and its so cute to see that she is starting to become a little daddy's girl. There is nothing sweeter than hearing your husband talk "baby talk".

I hope you enjoyed this update....stay tuned for pictures to follow.

I'm a big girl!

2009-02-12T12:47:00.003-07:00

Grace finally fits in her jumper and she is loving it. I don't feel like she is my infant anymore. Right now she laughs, blows bubbles and is constantly babbling about anything and everything. She loves to talk.

And to answer the question I get asked THE MOST. Yes, Grace's hair pretty much does that by itself. When she gets out of the bath I just comb it up and then it stays completely in place. :) There is no baby product in her hair!!

She wore herself out!

Happy 50th Auntie Linda!!!

2009-02-03T17:52:00.006-07:00

Yep thats right....this gorgeous brunette is 50!!!! I can't believe it myself. I want to see her birth certificate.

It is always a party when Uncle Scotty and Aunt Linda (Mike's brother and sister-in-law) come into town from Seattle. We love them and miss them so much!! They got to meet Grace and Crystal for the first time so it was really special to be able to capture their first moments together.

Oh man the sun kinda ruined the picture!!

Grandma Redington with her two babies.

This is Shannon and Scott wrestling around during the Super Bowl.

You Tell us??

2009-01-15T14:56:00.004-07:00

Who does Grace look like??

Sue

Mike

Just loungin' around

2009-01-13T20:06:00.006-07:00

Being a stay at home mom has been so fun. I am taking advantage of the time I have been home because it won't last too much longer...BOOOOO!!! Here are a few pics of Gracie, she is getting so big.

Ace did you stick your paw in a light socket???

Grace opens her eyes so big when you talk to her. Check out her big brown eyes! (Mike is secretly hoping they turn green like mine).

This is Ace's favorite squeaky toy. We play fetch with him every night. Last night Ace ran onto the bed in anticipation of Mike grabbing his toy and throwing it. This is what Mike saw when he walked into the bedroom. We laughed so hard.

OH YUCK!! Puppy kisses!!!
P.S. This happened right when I snapped the pic. Trust me, I didn't stage this picture.

That darn dog!

My First Christmas........

2008-12-30T14:40:00.007-07:00

Was pretty special.

I slept most of the day but my mom and dad helped me open all of my presents.

I layed on my new pillow pet "yellow duckie"

Ace seemed to like it too.

And I played with my cousin Crystal, she likes to pet my hair and touch my face.

All in all, I am a pretty lucky girl!

Two Peas in a Pod

2008-12-15T10:28:00.003-07:00

We introduced McKenna and Grace to eachother for the first time on Saturday. McKenna is Jill and Preston's baby (some of our best friends here.) Mike and Preston refer to eachother as "cousins".

McKenna was born exactly one week before Grace. We are excited to see these two girls grow up together. We love you Cousin McKenna!!

Don't you love the comb-over look Grace has going.

Our Little Angel

2008-12-10T17:16:00.002-07:00

Ask and ye shall receive.......

2008-12-10T16:53:00.003-07:00

Well, about four weeks ago I had this renewed vow that I would "blog with a purpose" BUT life as a new mom is actually keeping me quite busy. SOOOO get off my back JONI!!!!!! Ok, I am just kidding.

My friend Denise is an INCREDIBLE photographer so I begged her to take pictures of our little family. THANK YOU DENISE!! You truly are amazing and I have people asking me for your number....

Here is my beautiful baby. I was truly blessed with such a good natured little girl. She does have her nights and days mixed up but if that is the worst thing about her then I will take it!

Blogging With Purpose

2008-11-13T21:37:00.003-07:00

Well now that I have something to blog about I love posting updates on our little family. I love being a mom. Grace has brought so much joy to Mike and I. We never imagined how much love we can have for this little girl. Here are a few moments that Mike and I have captured during the week. ENJOY!

RUB-A-DUB-DUB

2008-11-13T21:29:00.004-07:00

Grace had her first bath at home and she was in heaven. I thought these pictures were cute so I had to post.

Grace loves listening to Mike's voice.

Introducing...Grace Redington!!

2008-11-08T20:27:00.005-07:00

7 pounds 5 ounces and 20 inches long ....so much for the prediction that grace was going to be between 8 and 9 pounds. :) She was born on Thursday, November 6th at 3:52pm.

Grace was born with a lot of BLACK BLACK hair. I had quite a few nurses ask me curiously when they brought her back from the nursery if I was "Grace's mom"? Hopefully she will look a little like me one day.....

I WANT MY MAMA!!

Cousin Crystal giving Gracie a "love tap".

My daddy is so proud and loves me so much!!

Time is at a stand still

2008-10-28T20:13:00.003-06:00

Well, we are about 8 days away from my due date and time seems to be moving WAY too slow. Up until last week I was feeling awesome, but the anxiousness has finally set in. Hopefully my next post will be pictures of a beautiful little baby girl!!

AND if someone at work asks me if I am having twins ONE MORE TIME...I swear I am going to freak out!!!

Yep she is a PINK girl!!

2008-09-29T20:12:00.003-06:00

In the beginning when I found out that we are having a girl I was sooo against having a color pallet of PINK PINK PINK but.....after I started buying things and putting the room together....guess what color came out full throttle - YEP you guessed it PINK!! I am in love with the little clothes we have received and the room we have put together. I will post pictures of the baby's room as soon as I get it all put together. I love leaving people on the edge of their seats. LOL Here are some pictures of the baby shower my mother in law and sister in law put together. Mike and I are so blessed to have such wonderful family members.

34 weeks pregnant and growing everyday...

PINK!!!

My nieces, Hannah and Lauren, came to help out.

Here is a very rare shot of the Redington girls. Linda, we missed you!!

My Charger Boys!

2008-09-12T14:48:00.003-06:00

You have to admit that Ace looks pretty darn cute in his Charger uniform. Sunday was the first day he was able to wear it - so out came the camera!

Baby Shower - WHAHOOO......Gifts!!!

2008-09-11T10:24:00.006-06:00

My mom and mother-in-law put together a surprise baby shower at Aspen Grove. The shower will really help prepare us for our little girl's entrance into the world in November. This was a day to remember, especially since I felt so incredibly spoiled!!

Vance Family Reunion 2008

2008-08-29T13:55:00.005-06:00

In July, the Vance Family congregated at Aspen Grove for a week full of FUN FUN FUN!! Approximately 60-65 family members attended. Mike and I loved every second of it and we look forward to taking our baby girl there in three years.

I finally did it!!

2008-08-07T13:15:00.007-06:00

I have finally joined the blogging ranks. I have a lot of people asking for "Fat" pictures....so here I am in ALL MY GLORY. I am now 27 weeks. This picture was taken while we were at a week-long family reunion at Aspen Grove Family Camp (during the July 24th holiday week.)