AnnMarie's birthday weekend

One of the best decisions I made while pregnant was to go ahead and have AM's birthday party early---before baby came.  Genius!  ha kidding, but really, it proved to be a lifesaver that it was already done when the real day came around.  

We celebrated with family on the 10th, and MC got to meet her grand grandparents too!  

A joyful meeting

Two beauties :)

The next (rainy) morning we awoke to a fun surprise from school that I had forgotten about---another preplanned event I was so glad I had done back in August! :)

We'd been "paw-ed" by the fourth graders.  It's a fun little fundraiser for them that AM really wanted to happen to her this year!

Didn't let the rain stop them from going out to see it!

When I asked AnnMarie what she wanted for her birthday dinner, she said, "Grandmommy's chicken and dumplings".  So sweet!  Even sweeter---Grandmommy brought all the ingredients and graciously took the time to make them with her.  What a fun memory!  

My Pioneer Woman shot
And might I add that they were just the thing to hit the spot on that cold and rainy day!!

Later that night we went over to my parents house for dinner.  Cookie cake request from the birthday girl!

She had two little guys ready and willing to help her blow out the candles.  :)

And another precious cousin looking cuter than ever!
*MC was there I promise---she was just being toted around by grandmothers!

Reading with Uncle Sean/Daddy

And we even had a handsome prince come to the party.  And some other good looking dude who really wanted the costume too.  Mommy's learning to never have "one" of anything when there are two year olds around!  :o)

*To our beautiful AnnMarie: You make Daddy and I prouder every day.  We thank God for your caring spirit, loving heart, and helpful attitude during this changing time in our family.  We can't believe it's been SIX years since you came to us!  We pray for many wonderful years ahead and can't wait to see who you become. We love you forever and ever!