11 Months Old and Walking!

Here is a little exerpt of what Phoebe's up to these days: walking, playing with her stuffed animals, falling and bumping her head on the coffee table, putting anything and everything in her mouth, making different babbling noises. This video was taken on her 11 month birthday, which was May 12th.

Happy First Mother's Day Mommy!

Mommy, did you know that you are one of my most favorite things? I mean, I like my toys, my books, and a good afternoon nap, but nothing, absolutely nothing, compares to you. If I could cook for you today, I would, but Daddy says you deserve more than Cheerios, especially today (and I think he's right).

You feed me everyday. You make my yummy food (blueberries, sweet potatoes, beef, and so many other tasty treats). You take me on walks and jogs (the runs are a little bumpy, but I still like them anyway, especially since I'm with you). You read to me every day. You sing to me. You play with me. You change my messy diapers. You talk to me in both English and German (danke!). You taught me some sign language. You took me to Kindermusik in the fall and the spring. You took me to swimming lessons earlier this year. You wash my dirty clothes and dishes. You get me dressed for the day and then again for bedtime. You give me baths. You read my Bible to me. You dance with me. You play games with me. You pick up my toys. You wipe off my face when I'm done eating. You take extra good care of me when I get sick. You take me to the doctor's office when I need to go. You make sure my car seat is secure. You keep me away from dangerous and icky things. You hold me when I'm scared or when I get hurt. You put me to bed eah night. You get up in the middle of the night with me when it's necessary. You hug me. You kiss me. You tell me that you love me.

Mommy, as we celebrate this first Mother's Day together, I want you to know how much I appreciate you and all that you do for me and for Daddy. You take such wonderful care of us, and you are a great example for a little girl like me to see and learn from every day. I am blessed to call you "Mommy."

I Love You and Happy Mother's Day!


Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." (Proverbs 31:28-29 28, NIV)

Kindermusik Part 2

Phoebe completed her first year of Kindermusik last Thursday. It was an amazing experience for both of us, filled with the cutest baby and toddler moments, and all centered around music. Our teacher and friend Miss Sandy used drums, scarves, balls, egg shakers, clackers, bells, rain shakers and more to give the children a sensory and social experience every week. We will miss seeing our little friends Julianne, Jacob, Jacob, Todd, Gracelynn, Grayson, Keller, Audrey, and Katie and their Mommys each week, and will treasure the memories we made in class and at home.

Our Neighbors

Our across-the-hall neighbors, Penelope, Andrea and Thomas, moved out about a week ago. Penelope was kind enough to watch Phoebe when I went Bible study in the Winter, and Andrea and Thomas loved to play with Phoebe and watch her grow. Andrea taught Phoebe to dance, and Thomas loved giving her hugs. They also shared their toys with her, and she loves playing with them! We miss them already, but they still live close, so we will see them again.