C H I C A G O!!!

This birthday was a big one for me...I just couldn't wrap my head around the fact that I am old enough to have a 7 year old! But I am, and I couldn't be more proud of how Gracie has turned out. This last year she's had to help out around the house a lot, and deal with a little less attention from mom and dad. Having a baby in the house again has been so much fun, but very time consuming too. I asked Gracie if she wanted a friend party this year, or if she'd rather just spend a few days just with mommy. Well, she picked me! So my mom came up with this great idea to take her to Chicago. Gracie's been wanting an American doll for a little while now. So, we thought we'd make a weekend out of it and surprise her by taking her to pick out her own American Girl! It was so much fun and relaxing to just spend time with her.

In the car all ready to head out! Nanna and Gracie walking through Chicago

She told me to "hurry up!" we were right across the street from the AG store.

At the front doors, so excited!

Here is the one she picked out! She wanted a doll that looked just like her.

Welcome Katie!

Katie and Gracie meeting face to face...:)

Gracie picked out a winter outfit for her doll.

And then we took her (not Gracie..don't worry, the doll) to get her ears pierced.

And then we took Katie (and the rest of us) out to see the BIG city. Just look at all those people! Chicago reminded me a lot of New York City.

We stopped at the Lego store to get something to bring back for Charlie. Check out this spider made out of Lego's!

And a Lego Woody!

Some of the sights

Then we headed back to our hotel room and Nanna had a few more gifts for Gracie.

A jeep!

Twins!

We headed out for a fancy dinner and stopped at the beach on our way. My mom and I found this super cute matching outfit for Gracie and her doll.

Gracie's Birthday

We have a Bible study at our house every other week. And this last one fell on Gracie's birthday, so we decided to have a little party for her with our church friends. I made some spagetti, every brought a side, and we had a blast!

This pic made me smile when I saw Addy just sitting there smiling at me..this girl is always ready for the camera! :)

For the past six years we've had beautiful weather on her birthday and the day we have her party. And this party was no different. Beautiful weather again!

Opening presents

Nanna and Grace Charlie being silly

New baby Noah, what a cutie!

And his big sis Kenzie