The Gift of Gabi's Grace

A Year Ago...REALLY

2011-04-29T11:11:00.005-05:00

Gifts of Gabi's Grace

I cannot believe it has been almost a year since I have last posted. Life sure has been busy. But the one thing I want all of you to now is that in that year we finally received our 501 C 3 status and Gifts of Gabi's Grace is a nonprofit organization. I am so proud of what we have done in the past in Gabi's honor, but I cannot wait to see what this can do for the future. We are currently working hard at planning our FIRST ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT. It will be September 24th, 2011. There is much work to be done, but as soon as I have more info, other than the date I will post it! We are extremely excited about it! We are also revamping our website, which will provide all the info you will need to play, donate, or volunteer!

Thank you again for always remembering Gabi!! How blessed we are to have been touched by such an angel!

Photo Update

2010-05-18T09:36:00.004-05:00

It has been so long since I've been on here I may of forgotten what I am doing. Life is good, kids are getting big, and well we are so blessed!!! I thought some of you would appreciate some updated photos. I usually update on facebook, so that is why I have strayed from here, my apologizes.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY PRECIOUS ANGEL

2010-01-11T23:38:00.003-06:00

On January 12th, 2007 we welcomed with open arms our first baby girl, Gabriele Sheridan. As a first time parent I was overwhelmed with the joy many of you have experienced. But I was also filled with much fear for I had no idea what her future would hold. I mean I was not scared of becoming a part of a new community but I was scared for all the unknowns of what people would say, how they would treat her, what would she be capable of on her own? It was all very honest things I feared for my child. I mean we were not gonna let Down Syndrome be what defined Gabi's future, but we were still fearful of how it could hold her back.
We quickly learned just how stubborn our little girl was, she had so much fight in her. Right away she was able to breastfeed, which we were told she likely wouldn't take to it for a while, because of D.S. We were told she would not develop as other children do. And up until the week before she had open heart surgery she was only one week behind from the "normal" children. I use that word very lightly, because I HATE IT!!! Who can truly define "normal"? Anyways, she had beat the odds that she was up against even as early as 5 months old, so we knew great things were in store for our baby girl.

I want to apologize for not continuing on her legacy as I planned with this blog. I admit I have become lazy. The days seem shorter, my life seems busier, and I always seem to find an excuse of something else I should do. Well I am not going to say this part of me will change, but as much as I enjoy blogging I find myself wanting to spend all my waking moments with Kinsley, can you blame me?!?!?

Gabi was sent from heaven I believe on short loan. I still believe she snuck away and when God did his head count he realized my little punky had gotten away so he was taking back what was rightfully his. Although I still would like to argue we could of given her the most amazing life here on earth, but God has bigger plans for her. I have come to truly believe this did not happen to us but for us. She has left an impact on my life that no other ever could of possibly done. I wasn't a bad person before, but I am definitely more giving and more thankful than I was. As parents we assume it is God's plan that we love and protect our children as he would. Well we did that and now we have a better relationship with him because of her. We did go through our times of doubt, but unless you have been in our situation, which I hope none of you have, you will never truly understand how one could not have such doubt on faith. I have come to peace knowing Gabi is with God and the other angels. I believe she is one of the heavenly hands that has played a huge role in Papa Acker's cancer miracle. He has nearly beat the odds, the doctors say he is a medical mystery...we say God and Gabi are working together and keeping Papa safe! God and Gabi also worked together in making sure Kinsley was created for Jason and I. As I have said on several occasions if it weren't for Kinsley I would be locked up in a looney bin somewhere! I like to think God and Gabi are on our side and they will work close together in keeping our family safe and healthy. We all continue to strive to be better, to serve the Lord better, and someday we will be reunited again.
I was always so scared of dying, but I can honestly say I am no longer scared. It is a reality of life, sometimes sooner than we plan. I know I have the most amazing little girl that will be there waiting for me. I cannot wait to hold her in my arms again. The picture above means so much to me. I know it has only been 2 1/2 years since her passing, but I forget how she feels, I forget how she touched me, to hug her and kiss her it is all such a distant memory. Nothing is worse than not remembering some of the most precious things we should cherish the most as our children grow up, or in my case as they move on to bigger and better places. I want nothing more than my heart to be filled with happiness. We were her chosen parents, whether she snuck away or not, she was ours for a reason. She and God knew we were the best for her and I thank God everyday for the days we had with her. I love harder, give thanks more, and appreicate this precious thing called life more!
So people live, love, and cherish those little ones and when they grow up to be big ones continue to live, love, and cherish the lifetime you've shared!

Happy Birthday my precious punky!!! I love you forever and ever

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

3rd Annual Santa's Little Helpers...DECEMBER 19th

2009-12-07T09:26:00.003-06:00

Last year...time to collect for this year!

The last 2 years we have had an incredible response, we went from filling stockings the first year to filling gift bags last year. But it is all because of the overwhelming love and respect each of you have for our Gabi. Every Christmas since she has passed we have collected items to give to the children in the PICU at Children's Mercy. The way we see it, Children's Mercy gave us so such love, hope, and encouragement, during the most awful moments in our lives. That was the last place we held our daughter, the last place we hugged and kissed her. Although it is bittersweet to go to Children's Mercy, the fact is that is the last place she was and we want to give back. Now we can't do this on our own, so that is why I ask each year for your help.

Think of some of your best memories as a child, especially those memories of Christmas. How many of you spent it in the PICU, I hope none of you! These kids don't deserve to be in the hosptial at what is suppose to be such a magical time of year. So we like to spread a little cheer and hoilday spirit. And even if it only takes them away for a second to bring a smile to faces, that is all we wish for! Donations could be anything from coloring books and crayons, games, lip gloss, hot wheels, dolls, booties, hair bows, arts and crafts...we never know the ages of the children, but it can range from newborn to 17 years old..variety is what we go for. I usually buy out the dollar spot at Target. Or if you'd rather just send a buck or 2 that works too! We only have 2 weeks to collect items, so anything and everything is GREATLY appreciated!

Our little angel is counting on us to represent her well but we need your help. Thank you and God Bless!!!

Warning...You are about to view the CUTEST PERFORMANCE EVER!!!

2009-11-30T21:01:00.005-06:00

3rd Annual Santa's Little Helpers

2009-11-20T08:50:00.005-06:00

I cannot believe it has been nearly a month since my last post. I do apologize, I have been so busy with cheerleading and then there is Kinsley. She is slowly becoming a big girl right before my eyes. She is AMAZING!!! She is starting to put words together making little sentences. She always wants to dance, color, and play with ALL her stuffed animals. I should say carry ALL of her stuffed animals around, and if she can't get them ALL I carry what she can't. We are potty training and she recognizes most of the time when she needs to go. She is soooooo proud when she does go, and of course so am I! She just turned 18 months, such a fun age, but it's a busy age.Gracie is staying busy with school. She has finally figured out why it is so important to do good the first time around. She has weekly spelling test and on Thursdays they have a pretest. If they get 100% they don't have to take the test on Friday, let's just say I think she has only taken one test on Friday. She just finished cheerleading for her little brothers team and now she is starting basketball. She is pretty pumped about bb, and I think Jason is more excited than ever, something he can really relate too.Now for the next topic at hand, 3rd Annual SANTA'S LITTLE HELPERS!!! For the last 2 years we have stuffed stockings for the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Childrens Mercy. We have had such an amazing response both years, so I am really looking forward to see how this year turns out. I am thinking we will deliver Saturday December 19th. That is not 100% confirmed but that is the date I am thinking will be best. That gives us 4 weeks to collect items. Remember we do not know until a couple days before what age groups we are collecting for, so it is important we get a little bit of everything. Mostly babies, a few tweens, and teens we also like to include something for the parents. These are some things we have collected in the past...coloring books and crayons, cross word puzzles, gift cards (McD's and movies tickets are great), hand held games, barbies, toy cars, lip gloss. The place I stock up the most is the dollar spot, you can find great items there for super cheap. We also accept monetary donations and then I take that and buy items suitable for the children/parents. I also like to take a tray of goodies for the nurses, so any bakers out there??? If you are interested in making any sort of donation, please contact me micah@giftsofgabisgrace.org
It is a tough time of year for everyone Christmas can be overwhelming on top of all of our other expenses, but the think I always remind myself of is, the kids are in the hospital and no kid should ever have to spend Christmas in the hospital. So we need to bring a little cheer to their day, give them a stocking full of goodies, just let there minds be in another place for an hour or 2.

Stepping Up for GABI'S GRACE

2009-10-26T08:32:00.007-05:00

Our team raised $720, just $30 shy of my goal...which I was super excited about. The sun was shining and we were surrounded by our amazing family and friends! It was a great day and we couldn't of had more pride walking for our angel. Thank you again to those of you who walked as well as donated!

My favorite 2 cheerleaders

2009-10-01T10:48:00.005-05:00

A Great Way to Start Your Monday!

2009-09-21T09:29:00.002-05:00

What can I say, the girl loves music! And check out her new uniform, Great Grammy made it and she LOVES it!

Another eventful weekend...

2009-09-10T08:53:00.005-05:00

Can you believe it, 2 days in a row I am on here!?! I figured instead of making a huge entry I would just start from the weekend. We are always on the go when Gracie is in school. But this was our last free weekend for a while. She starts cheerleading this next Saturday, which I am totally pumped about. She has been practicing really hard with her mom and me. When we practice though she asks if her motions are right and where she should be looking on certain motions...it is so cute. She actually listens to me too since I am a cheer coach.
So Saturday Kins and I picked up Gracie and went out to the Renaissance Festival, opening day. Gracie got to ride a pony, get a henna tattoo, and visit with Mimi and Papi....Kins and I were along for the ride. Jason had to work all day Saturday, so I have been trying to keep both girls entertained without hearing too much, "When's Daddy gonna be home?"Then Sunday was the annual Childrens Mercy Memorial Service. It was very bittersweet, this year they dedicated the 2008 quilt. The 2008 quilt is in memory of the children who passed in 2007. I had made a quilt block in memory of Gabi the quilt was beautiful. And the most special part is Gabi and Ava are right next to each other, just as they are in heaven...insert tears here :) The quilt will be hung in the hopsital on the wall near the cashiers counter in May of 2010. Be And each family gets to release a butterfly...it is such an amazing site to see when they are released.
Monday as a family, along with Uncle Freddie and Zach, Uncle Michael, Matt, Jess, and Joellen we all went to the Ren Fest. The kids got their faces painted, rode an elephant, jumped on a tampoline off bungies, ate turkey legs...let's just leave it at they got SPOILED!!! Oh and Kins got her new attire for the Ren Fest, she is so stinkin CUTE!!!

2009-09-09T20:49:00.003-05:00

Basically it's like this...we have been super busy and enjoying life to the fullest! The girls are doing great. Jason and I are doing great...we celebrated our 2nd, 3 year anniversary. If that confuses you it's because in June we got married at the courthouse and then in September we had a ceremony to exchange our vows in front of all of our loved ones! So that is why I say our 2nd, 3 year Anniversary!

I have been taking pictures like a crazy woman...is that any different than any other moment in my life. If you don't take pics how do you capture those moments you wish you had your camera??? I will have to download them soon and post A LOT!!!

Step Up For Down Syndrome Walk is coming up soon, so be sure to sign up. The cut off date for team t-shirts is right around the corner!

STEP UP FOR DOWN SYNDROME

2009-08-26T15:09:00.006-05:00

Don't wait until it is too late the walk is October 24th, seems far off but it will be here before you know it! Join team GABI'S GRACE for our 3rd walk. It is $20 for adults and $15 for children. Price includes team t-shirt, lunch, and lots of fun family friendly activities. All proceeds go to kids in KC with D.S. It is an incredible cause and most importantly to us, we are there to walk in memory of our precious angel! If you can't walk, donate to our team! All planning to attend and wanting a t-shirt, the cut off date is Sept. 25th...so don't lose track of time and forget to sign up...DO IT TODAY!!!

Piggies For Gabi

2009-08-21T13:57:00.011-05:00

Thank you everyone for your thoughts, prayers, and Piggie Tails!!!
You all bring so much joy to our hearts. Gabi WAS shining down on us all yesterday!

Remembering Our Angel

2009-08-19T10:29:00.007-05:00

It doesn't seem possible that is has been 2 years since Jason and I received the call that Gabi was not doing well and we needed to hurry to the hospital to be by her side. That day was the worst day of our lives, we couldn't get to the hospital fast enough. Our hearts and minds raced as we drove that horrid 15 minutes to get to her. Gabi had been doing better, or I should say she was maintaining. But I think she was just holding on for us. She needed to reassure us we could move forward with our lives. That is when we conceived Kinsley, definitely our life saver!

As we rushed into the hospital up the elevator for what seemed to take an eternity to go up 2 floors, the doors opened, we signed in, approached her room and we knew what was in store as soon as we saw her. Gabi had retained so much fluid she was so Pink and Squishy...she looked as if she would burst if she held onto any more fluids. It was the most awful feeling in the world, knowing there was nothing Jason or I could do to comfort her. We discussed our options with Dr. Teeves and proceeded with dialysis...we feared this because there was only a slim chance this would do the miracle we needed. As Dr. Teeves did her thing she felt a bit of relief it worked a little. So for the next 12 or so hours we watched and waited by her side. We called our family and our pastor for the most dreaded call of all. They needed to be there with Gabi what if this was it. Our family had been our biggest support while watching us and Gabi over the past 7 weeks in the hospital.

They all rushed in and we waited. We prayed, we cried, we told Gabi we knew how much she fought and it was ok to go into God's hands now. Those were words you NEVER want to tell your baby, but what choice did we have. She wasn't getting better, we truly felt she was suffering and that is absolutely not what we wanted for our baby. In the wee hours of Aug. 20th 2007, as I held my baby for the very last time, we said our final prayer and said our good bye's and Gabi returned to God and received her wings. How bittersweet that moment was. There is not a day that goes by I don't relive those final moments, it is not the way I want to remember my baby, but those are are final memories and how do you not remember that? Our Gabi changed our lives forever. We found the true meaning of life, we love harder, we give more and we are better people because of her. As much as I would change to fix her and bring her back to live with us much much longer, I know God had a bigger better life planned for her and that is where she belongs. It is taken me a long time to realize and agree that that is the truth and God really does know what he is doing. But given the situation how was I to think anywhere other than with her parents is better for her. I trust in God and what he does for us. And yes I said FOR US, 2 years ago I'd of said he did it to us not for us, but that is simply not true. He does things for us, we just have to learn from it and move forward.

Thank you God for bringing Gabi into our lives! I wouldn't change a thing, she defined life for us and that we will forever be thankful for. Please keep her safe and we do look forward someday to being with her again! And thank you for Kinsley she has given us the strength to continue to keep going forward with life. And thank you for Gracie, she is such a strong little girl. She has been through so much, but we continue to see her blossom into such an amazing young lady. We are truly blessed and we owe it all to you!

With that being said, I declared August 20th as NATIONAL PIGGIE TAIL DAY!!! Please show your support and wear piggies in honor of our precious angel Gabi. Most little girls love piggies, so it isn't that hard. The only thing I ask, please take a picture and send it to me. It is such a great way to help us get through the day! Thank you and God bless you all!!!

email it to: micah@giftsofgabisgrace.org

Oh Me Oh My

2009-08-14T10:18:00.005-05:00

Things have gotten super busy around here and school hasn't even started! Last week my squad took 4th place at our regional competition. I was very proud of them, some tough competition out there. We will be competing mid November for the state tourney. I have high hope for them, but we have a lot of work to do in preparation for that. Our football season is about to begin, which I look forward to. Kearney is very well know for there athletic achievements, among other things. So I think Jason will even enjoy attending the games :)

All decked out for the Regional Competition...check out her shirt...GO BULLDOGS!!!

Gracie spent her last day with us on Wednesday. I guess you can call it that, we still have her every weekend, but we love summer time, cause we have her a lot more. She is ready to get back to school, but not so much for abstinence with daddy. Nothing we can do though, tough havin a split family. She did start cheerleading yesterday! YES, I said it cheerleading! I am so pumped for her, this is her first year on an organized squad, so we will be traveling early Sat. mornings to watch our little cheerleader!

Rockin in Sissy's chair...she loved it until she rocked to hard and fell forward onto her noggin!

Kinsley is GO GO GO!!! She is talking up a storm. Some of her newest words are Mema (finally, poor mema thought she'd never say it), puppy, bath, back pack (strange huh, she loves Dora, so that's where that one come in), potty, and pee pee. We are slowly working on potty training. I know it is a bit soon, but really who say when is too soon??? I am so proud of her too, she does an excellent job considering how young she is. We have a great little pee pee/poo poo dance...which she thinks is GREAT!!! I am a little frustrated though because I have been looking for training pants, NOT pull ups at the stores and they have plenty and they do make them in 18 months, but apparently they do not believe there is much demand for them, so they do not have them in stock. I will have to order them online...oh well! She is one of the friendliest toddlers I know, she says Hi to EVERYONE! Loves blowing kisses and has even flirted with a few cuties! She continues to dance her little tushy off, she LOVES music! Today my baby girl is 15 months old...wow time sure flies.

15 months ago today...

Jason is doing great! Staying super busy at work. This weekend he gets alittle alone time, which is well deserved. Me, Kins, and my mom and heading to Branson to see my grandparents. Our first little road trip with Kins. My grandparents live in AZ and they are going on a little get away so we figured we better take advantage of them being so close. We are really looking forward to it! So next week I will have to post pics of that adventure!

Have a great weekend! Just a friendly reminder...next Thursday is my self proclaimed NATIONAL PIGGIE TAIL DAY, in honor of Gabi receiving her angel wings!

Friday Giggles...

2009-07-31T09:27:00.002-05:00

HaPpY BiRtHdAy DaDdY

2009-07-30T14:14:00.003-05:00

I LOVE YOU SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH! HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!!!

1st Annual STEP UP FOR DOWN SYNDROME WALK

2009-07-17T09:11:00.004-05:00

I can hardly believe it is that time of year again. We have participated the last 2 years in KC's Annual Buddy Walk in honor of our little angel, Gabi. Well here I go again asking for you to open your hearts, join our team! It is $20 for an adult and $15 for a child, which includes a t-shirt. The day is filled with fun, tons of activities for the kiddos, lunch is included, and a walk for a WONDERFUL cause. They have changed the name this year, STEP UP FOR DOWN SYNDROME WALK, not quite sure the reason behind it. Anyways that doesn't matter, the fact is there are thousands of families that need your support. So, mark your calendars for October 24, 2009 to join us for a walk that is very special to our hearts. And even if you can't walk you can still be a part of our team. Simply click on the link below and you can see how. Thanks so much! And we look forward to you joining our team!!!

1st Annual STEP UP FOR DOWN SYNDROME WALK, team GABI'S GRACE

Pics BELOW

2009-07-10T08:56:00.001-05:00

So last week I started to post pics and forgot to finish. Anyways I posted it today thinking I would have pics up for today, but it still posted on the day I did it. Go down 4 posts to BUMP, SET, FOUNTAIN and enjoy the pics of my girls. They are definintely worth scrolling down :)

A Slight Delay...my fault

2009-07-10T08:29:00.002-05:00

There is no excuse as to why I haven't posted the details of last weeks tests, I have been extremely busy this week. I do apologize though! I hoped you figured at this post, NO NEWS IS GOOD NEWS :)

As for Jason, the lump IS benign. The thyroid specialists wants to see him in 3 months, just keep an eye on it. No need to go in and remove it, many times they will shrink on there own and absorb into the body. So that is what we are praying for. Worst case, they go in and remove it. Jason already feels like it has gotten smaller though.

As for Fred, his prostate cancer IS localized, which means it did NOT spread. That is not only wonderful news, but a medical mystery to the doctors. He was diagnosed 2 years ago, and at that point is was a level 10, which is the worst level you can be diagnosed with, the odd were not in his favor. Well with the grace of God, a very special guardian angel, and endless prayers he is still going strong and kickin the cancers butt. Although he will never be 100% can free, he still has many years with us with proper care. For the next 8 weeks he will be going through very intense radiation, with hopes of knocking out the prostate cancer all together. I just wish the doctors would of thought of this months ago. All I can say is everything does happen for a reason and we are blessed that God is allowing him to continue such a courageous battle! As I told my FIL, God has others plans for him and that is why things are happening the way they are. That and he has 3 grandchildren to watch grown up!

So all and all things are looking up for the Ackers! Thanks to all the prayers you sent out for us, PRAYERS DOES WORK! Please continue to keep us there, we are still not in the clear, but definitely in a better place than we were.

With that being said, TUCKER needs our prayers. He has had a rough couple of days. His family is exhausted from all the excitement and could really use some encouragement! They are fighting hard for their little guy and when set backs happen it breaks your heart. You question the doctors, the nurses, yourself, even God. And although it is not right to question those people it happens and until you are in that situation you may never understand. But with that being said please pray for Tucker and not only him his entire family, they could use some good news!

We love you Tucker! xoxo

Here's the latest...

2009-06-30T14:18:00.002-05:00

Ok so Jason's specialist say he is almost 100% is it benign, which is excellent news. Confirmation will come no later than Friday. He said if it wasn't then his whole neck would be swollen, which it is not...THANK GOODNESS!

Now as for Fred, his x-rays showed no signs of colon cancer, FANTASTIC!! Now the tricky part, his prostate is extremely swollen which is causing his problems down below. So they are going to run more tests on Thursday, to see if the prostate cancer is still locallized, which is what we pray for. If that is the case, then they can attack it with more chemo and radiation. Now if it is the alternative and it has spread then they can only give him pain medication to ease the process.

Now I am feeling VERY optimistic. He has been doing great other than the bladder and back problems. We have a very special guardian angel and she has been pulling lots of overtime working with Papa and keeping him safe. We also have an amazing Lord above that no matter what the challenges are we face as a family, we have become not only closer with each other but our faith goes stronger each day. We will all go at some point in time, and it is comforting knowing we will all be together again in heaven, but I do pray we can live life together here on earth for a very long time.

Please please continue to keep us in your prayers!

Jump on over to Tucker's Blog as well, he is slowly progressing in the right direction, but as I have said before he has a long road to full recovery. WE LOVE YOU TUCKMAN!!!

Update to previous post

2009-06-30T09:18:00.000-05:00

Jason ended up having the biopsy, but it will be 3 days before we get the results. Let's just say our tummies will be in knots...I/we HATE waiting!

No news on Fred yet, will update once I hear from them.

Acker Family could use your prayers...

2009-06-29T21:50:00.003-05:00

It has been a while since I have posted a request like this, but I felt it was necessary. So anyone who has been following our blog is aware that my Father In Law has irreversible prostate cancer. It has been nearly 2 years since the initial diagnosis. Since then he has had many aches and pains, been through chemo, numerous medications, THE WORKS!!! Well he has been doing better, the cancer has been controlled and has not spread any other places. Well, he has had severe back pain, and had some troubles doing normal daily things. He saw the oncologist earlier today and he has been ordered to have x-rays tomorrow to see if it is colon cancer. SERIOUSLY...this has been tough enough on the ol' man, I pray this is not the case. But I figured a few prayers couldn't hurt. As soon as I know something I will post, but our family will be saying our prayers tonight.

It saddens me that we even have to reach out for more, but God knows whatever it is we CAN handle the news. Papa, hang in there you got3 grandchildren that need you to be strong and continue to keep fighting as hard as you have...give it hell ol' man! Gabi will be holding your hand tomorrow...WE LOVE YOU!!!

And one more request, Jason had his annual check up a couple weeks ago with the oncologist, and his thyroid is enlarged. He had an ultrasound 2 weeks ago and they want to do a biopsy, which is suppose to be tomorrow. I say suppose to be because the doc's office said it's a consultation but that is not what we were originally told so who knows. Every year at the annual check up the oncologist looks closely at his heart and thyroid, these are the 2 areas of concern for long term side effects from his chemo.

Well, it's getting late and Jason is waiting on me to start a movie, so I best be scootin.

We appreciate your thoughts and prayers:)

Good Night!

Bump, Set, Fountain...

2009-06-29T11:01:00.010-05:00

I started this post last week and forgot to post it...oops! Enjoy the pics :)

Gracie started volleyball a few weeks ago. We weren't sure what to expect, but she far exceeded our expectation. She has done great and had a lot of fun. Kins really enjoyed watching too. She does take her eyes off the ball. And she clapped throughout the entire game, mostly for sissy:)
As for our little water bug, she cannot get enough of the pool. She never wants out, always playing, splashing, walking around, she even goes under and LOVES it. She likes to grab the dive sticks underwater, she even did a little swimming yesterday, kicking and using her arms like a big girl.
Great Gram and Great Papa Bowles, I tried to get her smiling in the suit you got her, but she was too excited to go out and wouldn't hold still. This is as good as I got...kind of cute though:)
I think I saved the best for last. Last Thursday night we went to a free jazz concert at Zona Rosa.

Kinsley not only loved the music but she LOVED the fountains. ok, I need a break...this is good music!

Road to Recovery

2009-06-26T13:45:00.000-05:00

Well Tucker's surgery went great and he is now on the long road to recovery. Please continue to keep him and his family in your prayers. Sometimes this can be the hardest part of the family. Tucker is a Trooper and he will be up and going before you know it!

We Love You Tucker...xoxo

I told you Gabi would be right there to protect him:)

Prayers for Tucker

2009-06-25T10:25:00.004-05:00

Our little buddy Tucker has been in Boston since Sunday. Today at noon he will be undergoing a very important open heart surgery. Please say an extra prayer for not only Tucker but for his family. As we know this is never easy to allow your child to go in and not having a guarantee of the results. I have sent Gabi on a special mission today to hold Tucker's hand during surgery and bless the surgeons hands working on him.

If you are interested in following his progress throughout the day please go to their blogs. Alisha, aka computer whiz is good friend with Tucker's Mommy, Karen...she will be posting updates as she receives them.

http://ihearttucker.blogspot.com
http://bryantfamilynews.blogspot.com

Love and Prayers Bryant Family!

Izzy and Emmy's Momma is one smart lady

2009-06-24T08:44:00.005-05:00

ALISHA THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE SUGGESTION!!! I have been so upset thinking I was gonna have to start a new blog if I couldn't figure out how to fix not being able to add pics. Well my computer savvy friend Alisha gave me the idea to change my browser to FireFox and wallahhhhh...I can now upload my pics again. So if you have updated your browser I highly suggest you do! Firefox is free and it only took about 5 minutes.

NOW FOR SOME MUCH NEEDED PICS!!!
And now for a little cheerleading. My new squad went to cheer camp last week and well let's just say I got to relive my youth a little. Unfortunately the pic is a little dark, but I swear it's me up there...Momma's still got it!

Still no luck

2009-06-23T08:30:00.001-05:00

Thanks for the help, but for some reason I no longer get the photo image like I always used to. Maybe it's cause I haven't been on here in so long. Anyone else ever had that happen to them? URGGGGGGG, that's what I get for taking so long!

Ummmm, HELP

2009-06-22T09:51:00.000-05:00

It has been so long on here that I notice the format has changed a bit. How the heck do I add my pictures? Until I get some help, you will have to wait to see what I have...that's what I get for taking a month to get back to my postings! URG!!!!

A long time coming

2009-06-22T09:06:00.000-05:00

I CANNOT believe I have allowed so much time to pass since my last posting. I do apologize, but I have to admit I have been terribly busy and well, the girls and I have been trying to enjoy our days by the pool. And once daddy gets home, we like to spend time together as a family, then once the girls are in bed...we are pooped!

So we did finally get moved, I think it was 3 weeks ago. It all happened so fast. We ended up in an apartment, which isn't all bad. It is only a 2 bedroom, but we couldn't justify the cost of an extra room when we don't have Gracie as much. So Gracie is super excited sharing a room with sissy. Although, I am not a huge fan. Seems to be the nights we have Gracie that Kins wakes up in the middle of the night, which means, Gracie wakes up too. And their room is cramped, but it will do for now, I have become very creative finding place to store things. That and my living looks like a toy store:) Oh well we are scacraficing space and saving money to get caught back up. This is definitely a temporary move, but I am enjoying not cleaning as much space, decorating, and the 3 pools in our complex. The good outweighs the bad, so we are still smiling!
Some of you may remember we were suppose to move into a townhouse, but that property mgmnt. co. was a nightmare. If you are in KC, DO NOT EVER do business with OWENS BUILT PROPERTIES. Day before we were getting keys, they screwed up big time and cost us over $140 for their mistakes, which they refused to reimburse us. Long story short...they do horrible business and we went our separate ways. I am much happier where we are anyways and we saved over $120 a month by going to the apartment.

I started my new cheer job. I am now the Assistant Cheer Coach at Kearney High School. I LOVE IT! These girls have such a GREAT work ethic. Last week we went to cheer camp and they did excellent, I was so proud of them. I even got to doing a little stunting myself. And let me tell you, MOMMA'S still got it:)

Jason continues to stay hard at work! Yesterday we got to spend the day with both of our families. At the end of the day we went to my parents where he got to throw the girls around in the pool. As much as he didn't want to get it I KNOW he LOVED every minute of it!

Gracie and Kinsley are doing great! Gracie is finishing up her swimming lessons, which she loves. She is now swimming like a dolphin:) She had volleyball camp last week and is doing incredible. They had a serving contest and she won! Tomorrow night is the true test, her first game and it's a double hitter, so it will be action packed.
And where should I start with Kinsley. Everyday that little girl amazes me more and more. I never knew how truly rewarding it is being with her everyday is. She makes me so proud. I swear the MY KID IS A GENIUS, as all parents do! She says many words on a daily basis. She uses words in the right context. She runs, she loves swimming, she loves going under water. There is not one food out there she doesn't like. She is great with shapes, she knows quite a few animal noises. She recognizes all her family. She LOVES/ADORES both her Papi's...which they cannot get enough of her either! When she makes messes with her toys or my tupperware bowls, she loves to help clean up. She will take things to Daddy if I ask her too, or anyone for that matter. If we say take this whatever to whoever she does it. Overall she sleeps GREAT! I guess I could go on and on, but I want to post pics for you to enjoy as well...I will let you see for yourselves!

Party, Party, Party

2009-05-18T08:28:00.010-05:00

Kinsley's new set of wheelsMusical stacking boxes, which she LOVES!!!
Every kid should eat with balloons attached to the high chair
Her official PARTY HAT, which didn't stay in very long!
Cake #1
Yummy I like this...
Official PARTY outfit, party #2
Strikin a pose, with her new car
She loves those balloons!
Her itty bitty yellow polka dot bikini
Her big ol' babydoll
Cake #2 and #3
YUMMY!
She never did dive into it, afraid she might be a little dainty!
She did enjoy it though:)
Workin off the cake, pushin her best friend Joellen around.

Overall Kinsley had a GREAT celebration. She had 2 parties, 3 cakes, tons of presents, and lots of family and friends over the celebrate with. I would say she did a-o-k for her first birthday. Now if I could just my house back in order! But then again I have to pack this week, what's the point...we move Saturday! Thanks again to everyone who celebrated with us, it was one special day!

HaPpY BiRtHdAy KiNsLeY!!!

2009-05-14T08:09:00.002-05:00

Seems like only yesterday we were going in to be induced.

As soon I get pics from today I will post, but we have a busy day ahead of us, so it may take some time. I just wanted to share a year ago with all. And reflect on the fact that God is good and we are so blessed. HAPPY BIRTHDAY KINSLEY ADDYSON, we love you sooooo much!!!

XOXOXOXOXOXO

Time to Pack up the Troops and Move Out!!!

2009-05-07T08:50:00.007-05:00

So much has been going on around here I can't even remember the last time I truly wrote an entry other than post a few pictures or for that matter the last time I checked up on all my bloggin buddies. I feel horrible I haven't been following, but I just have been in my own little world. And as all of you know time to focus on my family is the most important thing I can do. And I have been trying to keep myself sane and do a little bit for myself. But can I really say it is for myself? Not really I have been working and although I enjoy what I've been doing I do it for my family. Just as Jason does for us everyday of his life...bless his heart. We are so blessed to have such an AMAZING, LOVING, CARING, RESPONSIBLE daddy!!! We have been dealing with a lot of crap lately and it saddens me because it is all beyond our control, but through all that crap we have stayed strong and supportive of each other.

We have been living life with a new outlook. We become stronger with our faith with each day. Even though things are crappy in some areas, other areas just get better and better. Our love grows more and more everyday for each other and our girls. He has an incredible job, with lots of opportunity for us to believe in our goals that we have as a family. He LOVES his job, it's actually a great escape from our reality. Even though I am in a complaining whiney mood, I still know we do have soooooo much to be thankful for. It is just a few irritating things that seems to NEVER go away, but hey life wouldn't be fun without a few hiccups right?!?

Gracie is doing AWESOME in school. She is doing end of the year spelling tests and so far this week she has gotten all of her words right. Lots of practice at home, but it pays off. Her reading skills improve everyday. She actually tells a story instead of reading a bunch of words...it's so enjoyable. She is getting ready to start playing volleyball for the first time, which she is super excited about. Then swimming lessons in June. Never a dull moment for that child! And she gets better with Kins everyday. They have so much fun playing together. They love having dance parties!

Kins is growing like the dandelions that won't go away in the front yard. I cannot believe I just compared my child to the weeds in the front yard...hehehe!!! She is walking a ton. She says, Mommy, Daddy, Mimi, Papa, By Byeeeee, Baba (bottle), No, uh oh. She can make a monkey noise, ducky noise (which is her favorite, she quacks all over the house). We imitate an elephant and monkey. She can sort shapes. And we are even working on potty training. I know it seems so early, but I figure it couldn't hurt and typically we are home so why not! I just need to be more consistent with her. She has poop pooped 5 or 6 times now in the potty. Obviously that one is a little easier to know it coming. She loves rearranging the kitchen, whether it be the chairs, the bowls, her high chair, you name it if she can move it she will.

Now as for us and our living situation. We have decided to move again! We found a place up north, not in Liberty where Jason works, but close the address is Kansas City, actually off North Oak TFWY. We are kind of excited, it's a brand new town home. You see we had to move because we are down to one car. We are trying so hard to get back on our feet and that means downsizing in every aspect of our lives. Life is getting better for us, but we still have certain sacrifices to make and after all we'd do whatever it takes for our baby girls!

As you can see my girls are doing great. And daddy and I are still madly in love:) Now for your entertainment some head banging and fun pics. ENJOY!!!

Oh my goodness I almost forgot, the birthday countdown has offically started at our house...exactly 7 days till the big day!!! I CANNOT believe my baby will be 1 :( This last year flew!

Kinsley's first experience with Finger Paints!

Happy Monday!!!

2009-04-20T08:27:00.002-05:00

Jason and I never have pictures taken together. I seem to always be the one behind the camera. Well one night last week I was playing with the camera and took a few of just us. So I thought I'd share one:)And then of course one of Miss Kins. At 11 months old can you believe I am able to put her hair in a ponytail. And not the kind on top of her head I have always be able to do that, I am talking a real pony in the back of her head. Must be silly to some, but I am proud of my baby's full head of hair, it is so exciting to try new things. Plus I have to admit I find joy in the littlest of all situations. Sure makes me appreciate life a whole lot more.

At times I feel like I get so wrapped up in all the doom and gloom, but we do have so much to be thankful for! Things can always be worse right!?! So I have decided to enjoy even the smallest things like Kinsley's pony:)

Sorry for the Delay

2009-04-17T10:46:00.006-05:00

I haven't had time to post since Easter, I have been on the go. And when I do get some time to get things done, while Kins is napping, I typically do things around the house...cleaning, cooking, laundry, the things us mom's love so much:) Anyways the girls had a GREAT Easter, spoiled as usual. I think Kinsley enjoyed the empty plastic eggs more than anything else in her baskets!

EASTER WITH DADDY'S FAMILY

EASTER MORNING

CHURCH

EASTER WITH MOMMY'S FAMILY

Big Steps...

2009-04-07T21:00:00.004-05:00

I came out of the kitchen and this is how I found Miss Kins, hangin out of her ducky...asleep! I guess whatever it takes right?!?

And then...

Sorry again it is so dark, but for some reason our power went out...how werid, beautiful weather and the whole town went out, oh well we made the best of our time! So now you can understand why I am not posting as much, someone keeps me VERY busy, and of course I am lovin it!!!

What a month...

2009-03-23T08:17:00.006-05:00

We have been doing well. The girls are growing up so quickly. Recently we have taken advantage of the beautiful weather. Kinsley loves to swing and Gracie loves taken her down the slide.

It is official Kins is a big girl,,,she is now in a big girl carseat. Makes me sad, but I love turning around and seeing that precious face!St. Patty's day was fun, we went to the playground at Gracie's school. She was on Spring Break so we all got to hang out. Except for Daddy though, he was at work...which normally I would be sad, but I am so thanksful he is at work. Just yesterday he said how much he loves his new job...Thank you Lord!!!Watching the other kids play while we ate lunch.

I love this next set of pics, Kins and I were watching Gracie swing.

Look mommy sissy is swinging...

Wow, she is going high...YEA SISSY!!!
Kins got a balloon and even during her nap she didn't let go. She loved that balloon. She giggled and played with it until we could no longer play with it!And finally, we signed up Gracie to ring the bell at church, but she didn't go this last weekend, she had her b-day party at her mom's house. So Kins stepped up and did it for sissy! She loved it. She giggled and thought it was pretty cool!!!

Have a great week everyone!

Pray hard and good things are to come!!!

2009-03-08T21:06:00.003-05:00

Last week started off great, Jason was getting a job offer from a company based out of Phoenix, AZ. I thought that would be great, we have family there and I'd love to go with him occasionally to the office. He'd be based out of our house and travel when needed. So because he was getting this offer, he had turned down a couple other offers. He and the owner spoke Monday night and he was to get the official offer and details of pay and benefits on Tuesday morning. Needless to say we did not get much sleep Monday night. So the call came and about an hour after the call Jason told me, They changed their minds and there would be no offer...WHAT!?! Ok, well this is not the first time this happened to us, so we will just get back on the job search sites. But what the heck are we gonna do, we are totally out of money, patience, and quickly losing our faith, again. Well we decided we'd pray really hard! Jason gets a magazine called Senior Advisors, it's a magazine for the insurance world. He went on a rampage and started calling every office in that had ads to see anyone was hiring. After all this would be his area of expertise, he has been in the industry for 10 years, surely somebody would like someone with his charm and experience.
This one particular company was hiring. In fact the guy had put out an ad in the local newspaper looking for a new marketer. He was actually going to hire an individual that afternoon when Jason sparked his interest. So they scheduled an interview for Wednesday morning. Jason was super excited, but trying so hard not to get his hopes up to high for fear of what typically happens to us. I know I know poor us...but come on can't we have a break for once, we are really getting close to losing everything. And I am not sure how much more we can handle before we totally reach a breaking point. So again we pray and pray and pray...I don't think we stopped praying.
The interview went great, and by Wednesday afternoon JASON WAS OFFERED THE JOB!!! Which he started on Thursday, salary, benefits, a chance for bonuses, maybe even some commission, and the best part it's in Liberty, MO. That is about an hour and 15 min. from our house. It's a bit of a commute, but we can make this work.

So this is just a litle testimony that if you pray good things will come, it just may take some time. We have been so down lately and we lost a sight of our faith. We were truly being tested and we almost failed, but we chose to pray hard and know that with God we will come out ahead.

THANK YOU GOD!!!

WARNING..DO NOT DRINK AND STAND

2009-02-25T22:49:00.008-06:00

I know this is a little dark but hopefully you can see our little girl is just growing up so dang fast. All of the sudden tonight she stared standing on her own, with no support. And she did it a lot. Of course she seemed to really like showing off for her Papa, which he totally got a kick out of it...who wouldn't though? Tomorrow she goes in for her 9 month check up, we are so anxious to find out how much she has grown.

Graice has had a lot going on lately. She was involved in a dance clinic that the high school girls taught, which she LOVED...I still think we have a cheerleader though:) And then last week all the second graders had a little concert. They sang 4 ADORABLE mother goose songs. They songs were super cute, I hope she remembers them so we can sing them to Kinsley.The girls keep us so busy, but we are lovin every minute of it!

Chucky Cheese

Workin the balance beam

Hey Great Grandma Bowles, check out my shirt...GO HAWKEYES!!!

Girls Just Havin Fun

2009-02-23T00:31:00.005-06:00

Thought this would be a great way to start off this week...

TUCKER BRYANT

2009-02-13T23:34:00.003-06:00

Tucker is a very energetic little boy, he is full of life and his family has dreams for him! The only way he will be able to fulfill these dreams is by going to a Childrens Hospital in Boston to have heart surgery. Well as many of you know surgery is very expensive, not to mention what it can do to a family financially. The Bryants live in KC. His mommy, Karen, has prayed for us and given me hope in many desperate times. Tucker deserves this surgery so much. Surgery date is April 13th. We want to help in any way we can. Gifts of Gabi's Grace Foundation has been inactive for a while. So I am hoping and praying that anyone who can help will. Simply click on the picture below and it will direct you to a special blog for Tucker to raise money. They are also doing several raffles to raise money as well. If you would like to make a monatery donation or an item to raffle, or you'd like to bid on an item...PLEASE Click on this adorable little boys picture. We are all experiencing the effects of the economy but every penny counts in a situation like this. The last thing the Bryants need to worry about is if they can afford to be with there son in a time of such importance.At the Children's Hospital in Boston there is a surgeon doing Bi-Ventricle Repairs on kiddos just like Tucker. This is not an experimental procedure, it is not a new procedure, it is however being used in a way that can fix hearts and give Tucker a new life; a long life. A life without being labeled as a "heart baby".

"Without our miracle in Boston, we sit back and wait for the day that Tuck’s little heart gives out. It could be a month, a year, or even 10 years, but the truth is, Tucker's heart will eventually give out. With the heart surgery in Boston, Tucker will have a full heart; a growing heart. He will be able to play sports. He will have oxygen saturation's in the high 90’s, not the low 60’s…..it is everything we have prayed for." -Karen

Gymnastics, Cheerleading, and Random Fun...

2009-02-11T23:11:00.006-06:00

Gymnastics with Chelsea, we had a great time. Kins really liked the slide.

OUR FUTURE CHEERLEADER...notice the uniform Tonya:)

I have tried and tried, but Gracie is just not interested in being in the pics. Luckily I got this one, such a silly cheesy girl!
We made, with a little help from our friend Carey, our quilt block piece for the Childrens Mercy Memory Quilt. Obviously Gabi will stand out..hot pink polk a dots:) The quilt will be dedicated over the summer then hung in the hospital. I will give details once it happens, I believe anyone can view if in KC.

Seriously mommy stop with the pictures...Check out her outfit though, I love those boots!!!

30 Something...

2009-02-10T23:46:00.002-06:00

This one is about me! I feel I have truly neglected this blog for so many reasons lately and I regret it. There is sooooo much on my mind and instead of getting things out like I used to, I for some reason have been holding everything in. WHY??? I think part of it is because I fear the truth. But if I had more faith in what is going on around me, maybe I'd realize that everything happens for a reason and some day things turn full circle. I try to be a very honest, trustworthy, loyal, caring individual. I do not want from others, I want to give.
So, this past weekend was huge. My girlfriend, Erica from KY, came in town for a weekend full of surprises. Jason planned a party in honor of my big 3-0. He rounded up so many friends I hadn't seen in a while. My girlfriend, Tonya, her hubby Nate, and their twins even came from IA. I am blessed with very special people in my life. THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR COMING OUT ON SATURDAY, JUST WISHED I'D OF BEEN ABLE TO HANG A LITTLE MORE!!!
Today was my actual birthday, I had a wonderful day. My neighbor who is a very good friend took me out to lunch, sushi....YUMMY, and then we got pedicures. What a great relaxing day for just us girls. Then Jason and the girls met me on Mass. St. for some b-day shopping. Actually I think the girls got more than me. Oh well, that is what I do for my girls!

So I started thinking about how quickly life happens. I am in shock to say I am 30, I do not feel 30...or do I? I have experienced so much life in the past year and a half I feel way older than 30. I mean is a person my age suppose to of experienced the things Jason and I have. It all comes down to losing Gabi. I am young I have so much life to live, but yet I lost my daughter and for what? She was a blessing sent from the heavens above and then poof...GONE! UGH, it is still so frustrating. Gracie and Kinsley are here to celebrate this day with me, but I will never have all 3 of my girls together.
I changed out a few pics in frames in Gracie's room the other day. One pics is of her, Kinsley, and her little brother...we both said how it's not fair Gabi can't be in that pic too. Yea, yea, yea she is there in spirit, but that will never be good enough. I just want to SCREAM sometimes. I hate to complain and sound like oh poor me...blah blah blah, but it just sucks! I know that is not what many of you think I should focus on, the Lord has his plan and I should just know that with him I can and will get through this, but will I ever feel complete again...NO!!!

Ok, I do have so much to be thankful for and believe me I AM. Things can always be worse, but come on...this is the worse thing that has ever happened to me and I don't know how else to express my emotions other than to feel a sense of emptiness. I love my life, I love my husband, I love my girls, I love my family, I love my friends. I am a christian, but I am still searching for things that I wonder if I will ever feel the way I used to again. I forgive, but will I ever forget...the pain is always so deep and on the surface.

Many of you have prayed and offered your friendship and kind words to us...THANK YOU!!! I feel that is why I continue on in my search for the unknown. One day I will find it in my heart, but I guess I am just not ready. As for now I am the oldest 30 year old I know. But I did get carded tonight at dinner, so I still got something going for me...HEHEHE!!!

And the search goes on...

2009-01-30T00:10:00.006-06:00

Well we continue to search for our sanity! Jason is still searching for a job he can make his career, but we haven't had much luck. He has 2 really big interviews these next 2 weeks. Talk about nerve racking, I feel like we just keep beating our heads up against the wall. He enjoy selling cancer policies, but it is just not cutting it. With today's economy there is not extra money out there that people are buying extra policies, which means no income for us. So hence the reason for continuing the search.

As for me, I have made a huge decision which will go into effect in the fall. I will be going back to school to get a degree in Elementary Education. I have been toying around with the idea for a while now, but thought that since I just had Kinsley it wasn't the right time. But the more I think about it the longer I wait I will always have an excuse for why it is not the right time. So I figured if I at least wait until fall I can get all my ducks in a row and we will just make it work. Plus I don't plan on going to far from home, Baker University is about 15 minutes away. And I have already talked to them and it will only take me 2 years and that includes Student Teaching. And by the time I finish Kinsley would be 3, so I could get her in Preschool and I can work again. Which would help tremendously, I feel like Jason has so much pressure on him, that if I could contribute I would feel so much better. Don't get me wrong I LOVE staying at home with the kids, but I find myself needing something for me. I hope that doesn't sound selfish. I put my girls ahead of everything. There is NOTHING I wouldn't do for them, but again I need more. And I feel like at that point Kinsley will be getting into school and play groups and well I will have more time for me.

Plus we still haven't decided if we are gonna have another baby. Somedays we want one more, somedays we don't...it's scary when everything is so perfect now! And by that I mean that Kinsley and Gracie are healthy beautiful girls, and I am so afraid of what happened to Gabi happening again.

Now as for the girls. Gracie is growing up so fast. She is doing very well in school. And she has made some great new friends. It is so exciting that she is here in town with us now. And we get to see her so much more. Jason and I are so thankful for the time we have together and we get to be involved in so much more now. She just recently had to get glasses, which are super cute! She is near sighted, the dr. said it may actually correct itself with time, so we'll see. She really likes them. I don't have a pic. yet, but I will be sure to post one soon. She is quite the stylish little thing, but would you expect anything less???

Hat Day at school
And of course PJ Day

Now as for Kinsley well I think I will let the pictures say what she has been up to.

Spaghetti need I say more???

She is now walking a few steps at a time with the walker, and she loves it!

As you can see she REALLY enjoys her bottles, if you didn't know you'd think she was a lush!

And I think my mom would tell you, she gets this from me. Sleeping with her bootie stickin straight up...when I was her age of course!

And finally our little Rock Star in the making!

8 months and growing strong...

2009-01-21T00:44:00.004-06:00

What can I say...we love TARGET!!!
She is pulling her self up on everything, or I should say trying. I helped a little here, but it won't be long little Miss Independent will be on her own.

I/We cannot get over how stinkin cute she is. This is the first shot she stood long enough I got in on camera.

Kinsley is now 8 months old. She is crawling all over the place. Last night she was playing with her walker. I stood her up and she was just hangin out. Next thing I know she took 3 steps all by herself. I would love to see her take her first steps before my birthday, which is next month, but we'll see. She is eating tons these days. Basically she will eat anything I let her. I have slowly been working on table foods. She still only has 2 teeth, so I am super careful.

I need to post Gabi's b-day pics. We had a wonderful celebration with great family and friends! I didn't get a ton of pics but some definitely worth posting, I will do it very soon.

I am feeling a bit under weather. I took some medicine tonight and now I can't sleep...UGHHHHH!!!! That stuff is suppose to make me sleepy!

HaPpY BiRtHdAy PuNkY!!!

2009-01-12T00:53:00.003-06:00

This is such a bittersweet day! As you can tell by the time of my post I cannot sleep. I try but everytime I end up in tears. At 4:41am it will be Gabi's 2nd birthday. It was hard enough not being able to celebrate her first birthday with her and now another year has passed. I wish I could say it seems like yesterday that I held her in my arms for the first time, but the truth is I cannot remember what it was like to hold her. It seems as if the memories get further and further out of reach everyday. I keep telling myself she WAS real and she will ALWAYS be the biggest part of my heart. I strive everyday to be better than the day before. And I owe that all to my angel. Gabi taught me so much of what the true meaning of life is.

She was sent to me on a mission and I feel she accomplished that! It is not what we have or don't have that makes us who we are. It is what we learn as we experience each day, one day at a time.

My precious Gabriele,
Mommy, Daddy, and Gracie miss you so much. I just know that we would of had a great time together as a family, but God had a different plan for us. And although we may never understand, we have to accept that. I do believe you knew me well enough to know that I needed baby Kinsley in order to continue to keep my focus. Because of Kinsley I am able to move forward each day. Don't get me wrong, not a single day goes by I don't wish you were here, but it makes life a little easier to deal with when I am chasing her around the house:) I can barely keep up and I know it will only get worse, but THANK YOU! Well, I should thank God and I do, but I think when you made the deal to go back after sneaking away it was a good trade. I hope that makes sense, you can NEVER be replaced, but I was given someone else to love just as I would of and still do love you.
I feel like none of this is coming out right. I am so upset I even have to write such a stupid letter to you. You should be here and we should be having a huge party today! UGHHHHH!!!! Baby my heart aches every second of everyday for you. I would give ANYTHING to touch you, kiss you, hold you, polish your toes, put your hair in piggies...ANYTHING! I cannot believe that this is our life, isn't this what happens to other people, on a Lifetime movie or something. Here I go again, tears...
I cannot wait till Kinsley gets older and I can tell her all about her big sissy. She will be so proud of how brave you were and how lucky we are to have such a special guardian angel! Gracie talks about you all the time. We were both pretty upset tonight, cause we feel cheated! We wanted more time with you. I could go on and on about what we don't have with you. But the most important thing for me to do is focus on what we once had and hold those memories closest to my heart. You were my first daughter, always will be. There is a special bond there no one can take from us. And although I wish we could be together I find comfort knowing we will be someday.
I love you punky! I miss you soooooooooo much. Be a good girl as you celebrate in the heavens above. I can't wait for you to get all of your balloons. Look for a couple of special ones from me, daddy, and both your sisters.

LOVE LOVE...LOVE LOVE

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Family Member Needs a Good Home!

2009-01-09T13:22:00.003-06:00

I'll try to keep this as upbeat as possible but unfortunately we need to find a good home for the second oldest female in our family...Sadi, our Australian Shepard.

Sadi has been a great family pet and good with all of our children. However for some reason last night Kinsley crawled up behind her like she has done many times, and Sadi growled and nipped at her very quickly. It scared the living daylights out of both of us and I almost killed the dog! She is a great dog though and has been very good for everyone in the family up until now, and we just can not take the chance of something happening again. Kinsley is OK, when Sadi nipped at her she didn't even break the skin but the quick snap at Kinsley's head just left a little bruise and a mark on her forehead. Luckily she has a tough head just like her Dad! All we can think about though is the fact that it could of been a lot worse.

If someone would like to have Sadi she needs lots of love and attention and a place to run. She is a very energetic dog as are all Aussies. She has been an inside dog her entire life of 5.5 years but think she would really enjoy being on a farm to run as much as she wants. As I mentioned before she has been great with Gracie my 7 year old daughter, Zach my 4 year old nephew, and Joellen our 2 year old neighbor. We obviously want her to go to a good home and will not let just anyone take her but if you know of a GOOD home please let us know.

Long Overdue Photo Update...

2009-01-05T10:16:00.008-06:00

First time in a high chair at a resturant...she is gettin so big!

The coolest rocker EVER!!!

Christmas Eve with her new walker

Christmas Day just bein silly
Christmas Morning Jammies

They were so happy Christmas Morning!

Christmas Eve, I think she liked the bows more than the presents

The best gifts of all

Christmas Eve you always get to open one!

NEW YEAR EVE, ready for the count down

New Year Morning, lookin good even after a long night of partyin!!!

2ND ANNUAL SANTA'S LITTLE HELPERS

2009-01-05T09:35:00.006-06:00

Sorry it has taken so long to fill you on on the huge success we had this year with Santa's Little Helpers. A wonderful nurse by the name of Amy from CMH South, had been following our story for a while and thought we had started an amazing thing and she wanted to help. She made an announcement at her church and everyone was so gracious. Then my dear friend Alisha, over at Izzy 'n Emma's blog, wanted to help in a major way too. Her husband, Greg works for a screen print company and his company donated basketballs with our logo name as well as Miracle Happen Ministries. What a wonderful thing, I think I was most excited about the balls because they donated enough we will be able to use them for other events. We would of never been able to pull it off if it weren't for them.

Matt and Megan were going to pack up all their goodies they had collected and head up to KC to join us for the stuffing of the "stockings." We had to use bags, because of the amount of stuff we had for the kids. Unfortunately though with Megan being pregnant and her and Matt both came down with something. Bella had been sick the night before too, so we did not want them to travel the 3 hour drive and be sick the entire way. They stayed at home, we had both decided to cancel until they came to town in January for Bella's next appointment. I agree it was the right thing to do. But the more I thought about it, the more it broke my heart. It was our way of celebrating Gabi, giving to the place we spent our final days with our baby. We had to go ahead and give what we had and well we could figure out the rest later.

So we packed it all up and headed to Kansas City for the big delivery. I had to stop and get a few things to make it happen, but I didn't care we had to do this for Gabi! When we got to the hospital we stuffed all the bags and up to the PICU we went. Christy, one of our favorite charge nurses was working, she let us in and Gracie even got to hand deliver the bags. Some of the children were sleeping or their parents weren't there, so we had to just leave the bag for them. But there were a few children whos parents were there and opened the packages right away. They were thrilled, their faces were worth it all. One mom had told me, this was the only Christmas her son would get, because they had been in so long and they could not afford to do anything. That is the exact reason we started this, just to see that little boys face. I'd of given anything to see that look on Gabi's face. And I believe she was there with us and it made it all the better! Not to mention some of our favorite nurses were working and Dr. Tieves, our most favorite PICU doctor. She is the one who came back after her shift was over to be with us and Gabi in her last hour. It was bittersweet, but I wouldn't of wanted it any other way.

I cannot thank everyone enough for all of your generous time, money, and donations! We could not of had such a huge success. We look forward to another successfull outcome in December.

God Bless to you all!

2nd Annual Balloons for Gabi

2009-01-03T12:14:00.005-06:00

It amazes me just how quickly this last year has passed. With that being said I have a lot of catch up to do. I have tons of pictures to share from the holidays, but I had to make this important announcement! GABI'S BIRTHDAY is Monday, January 12th. And just like last year we would like everyone to send Gabi a little note attached to a pink balloon. If anyone that lives around us would like to come to our house for the release we would love to have friends and family over for the occassion. We would like everyone to release their balloons 7pm central standard time. Now for those of you that live in where it is dark at 7, which is most of us, please take a picture before you release your pic. Like last year I would love for everyone who participates to send me pictures, just email them to me. I will put another reminder or 2 on here, so no one forgets...mark your calendars...7PM CENTRAL STANDARD TIME, MONDAY JANUARY 12

Something for Everyone...

2008-12-22T23:49:00.005-06:00

Little Who's in Whoville
Our little Who

Actress in the making

Checkin out the big fish in the big tank at Bass Pro Shop

Kins and Chelsea

Daddy and Kins

Kins and her Birdie

Need I explain who is in this pic???

FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS...

2008-12-14T21:23:00.003-06:00

REMEMBERING

2008-12-11T10:12:00.007-06:00

Compassionate Friends (an organization that provides support for bereaved parents) is sponsoring a world wide candle lighting. This candle lighting is a ceremony to remember children who have passed away. It is held on Sunday, December 14th at 7:00pm for each time zone. This is to cause kind of a wave of lighting around the world for 24 hours. Please take part in remembering Gabi along with the other beautiful children who have lost their lives.

Angel Gabi

Angel AvaAngel Brenlee

Angel Mia

Angel Jack, not pictured...but always in our hearts!

Check us out...

2008-12-10T09:09:00.001-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

And an update...

2008-12-07T21:39:00.006-06:00

Kinsley is now 15lbs. 10oz. and 25in. long I am amazed at how much she reminds me of Gabi everyday. Many times Jason and I do double takes, of course they look alike they are sisters, but geesh! She will be 7 months on the 14th. Gabi was 7 months 8 days so we are really scared given the fact our first baby was taken from us right around this time. I want this post to be focused more on the positive in our lives, but this is a really hard time of year, so forgive me.

Kinsley eats like a pig. She talks a babbles ALL the time. She laughes at daddy ALL the time, we all do:) She is crawling better, but still like rambo. I think she will be up on all fours by Christmas, at least that's my goal. She got her ear pierced this last Thursday, she is soooooo stinkin cute! Today at church we did her baby dedication, it was a tear jerker, but perfect!

Gracie is 7 going on 25. She is such a good girl, always helping with sissy. She has such a big heart. She is going to be performing a class performance of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, she is super excited for her debut as an actress:)

Thanks for sticking with me and hopefully being understanding of my absence!

Now enjoy some much needed pics!

Holiday Funk

2008-12-07T21:22:00.002-06:00

I cannot believe it has been almost a month since my last post. There are so many reasons I have not been on here, but I think it comes down to the fact that holidays are very tough. I have always loved holidays to me it means time with family and creating traditions and keeping up with those traditions. Well that is the thing that is so hard to deal with there is a huge part of our family that we can never get back. Gabi came into our lives and so quickly she was taken.
A couple of weeks ago I was watching ER, one of the doctor had lost there child, 5 years had passed and she was talking about it to her husband. She said when you lose a spouse you are a widow when you lose your parents your are an orphan, but when you lose a child there are no words. This is probably about the time of my last post and well need I say more...

Oh my precious punky Mommy and Daddy miss you so much. The holidays will never be what we had dreamed of for our family. You were a blessing sent from the heavens above. We were the chosen ones to have been touched by an angel. You will always have our hearts and you will NEVER be forgotten. I am so sorry it has been so long that I share my thought with you. Sometimes I think it makes it harder when I do, because then it is real. WHY? WHY? WHY? My heart aches everyday you and will forever. I find peace in the fact that we will be together again, but until then it hurts so badly! I love love love love you, now forever and always!

On The Go...

2008-11-18T23:01:00.004-06:00

as the title says, On The Go!!!

Seriously Mommy, FEED ME!!!

Well it has been awhile, but we have been extremely busy. I feel like I never seem to catch up with anything. And now that the holiday season is about here I am going nuts! I barely see my husband let alone see anyone else. Kinsley and I have been hanging out and working on lots of good stuff. She is now CRAWLING!!! First time was Saturday night, she wanted Joellen's toys so bad (our little neighbor). The girl did what she had to to get that My Little Pony:) I can't believe it, she is getting to be such a big girl! Her 2 bottom teeth are almost all the way in, I think she is cutting more though. Tonight she was really fussy and she's ran a fever all day. Guess I will know in a few days, this is what happened before the bottom 2 cut.

I love her cheesy smile!!!

She will hate me for this someday, but she is so stinkin cute!

2nd Annual SANTA'S LITTLE HELPERS

2008-11-09T23:57:00.007-06:00

Gifts of Gabi's Grace Foundation and Miracles Happen Ministries are back at it again. With last years huge success we want ot spread a little holiday cheer to some very special kids. Childrens Mercy PICU is very special to our families, for very obvious reasons. Unfortunately though we have not had the time this year to fundraise and have events for our organizations, so we are begging for your help again! And I know we ask a lot, but I feel like the times we ask for help it is necessary. Christmas is my favorite time of year, especially as a child and I think my most favorite part was the stocking!

Last year many of you helped brighten many kids faces as they spend their holiday in the PICU. We had an overwhelming response of those who wanted to take part in such a special event. We WANT and NEED your help again this year. We have not set a date for delivery, but we need to start getting items together. Last year we had everything from crayons, coloring books, puzzles, games, barbies, dolls, matchbox cars, jewelry, movie tickets, candy, the list goes on and on. The children range anywhere from newborn to 18 years old. We made ornaments and even little picture frames. It was such a fun event! And of course we could not leave out our guardian angels up there, the nursing staff, we took them trays of goodies to snack on.

If you would like to be involved in any way shape or form please contact me. Our web site has the wrong mailing address listed and I can't seem to get on it to change it, technical difficulties! Please email me, micah@giftsofgabisgrace.org

Whether it is money, toys, candy, cookies...we need it all!!! I found the majority of the items I pruchased at Targets dollar spot, I have already spotted several items I'd like to pick up. I know this is a hard time of year for many people and with the economy in shambles it makes things even harder. But these children deserve a little holiday spirit and that is exactly what we plan to give them, with your help of course.

THANK YOU and remember the kids will love you for it and most importantly rememeber the whole reason we even started this was our 2 amazing little girls, ANGEL GABI and BELLA

These stockings were filled beyond belief, I can't wait to see how much the kids get this year, with your help of course!

Pirate, Punk Princess, and A Tooth!!!

2008-11-01T11:23:00.006-05:00

Last night was fun! Gracie and her little brother, Chance, came to our house for Trick or Treating, our neighbor, Joellen, joined us as well. So we had a Pirate- Gracie, a scarey Zombie- Chance, a Punk Princess- Kinsley, Minnie Mouse- Joellen, Tigger- Daddy, and me the "Salsa Dancer. Kinsley and I made it through most of the neighborhood, but a diaper change and food was needed about half way. We headed back while the rest of the kids finished up. They brought home lots of great treats, I am sure their teeth are rotting as I type:) Speaking of teeth, Miss Kinsley first tooth is cutting through her gums I felt it for the first time last night...YEA!!! It is so hard to believe how quickly she is growing up, I am lovin every minute of it! My baby is turning into a big girl!

Busy busy busy!!!

2008-10-31T09:42:00.007-05:00

I am sorry for such a long delay in post, but I have been extremely busy. I have been working from home and I am the assistant cheer coach at the local h.s. And of course I have my precious little Kinsley keeping me on the go. Gracie just moved to Eudora, so I have had her a lot more too. I gotta tell ya though, the time with the girls has been amazing! Jason has been dreaming of the day that he lives in the same town as Gracie and it finally has happened.

Quick update on Kinsley, she is getting bigger everyday. She is sitting up on her own at times. She still hasn't got it everytime she tries, but she is pretty darn close! She loves being on her tummy and she is trying to scoot, won't be long and we'll be chasing her all over the place. She even sit up on her tummy, stretching her back, Ilove this move it is so stinkin cute! Of course she is ALWAYS so stinkin cute! She is constantly sticking out her tongue, wonder where she gets that from? She loves to mimick! She even responds to noises we make, of course she is talking to us! She has become quite the chatterbox! We hit a major marker on Tuesday. As of Tuesday she was the age Gabi was when she went in the day of surgery. So this is all new territory for us. Of course Gabi was around for another 7 weeks, but she was not the same baby those last 7 weeks. Ok before I get too emotional, with that being said ...next topic!

Here are a few randon picture from the last month and very soon I will post our little pirate and punk rock princess!!!

This Breaks My Heart...

2008-10-22T09:42:00.001-05:00

I know this is not the kind of thing I normally post, but it hit me hard. I felt it was important to share the truth. Now I am not trying to make a political stand on this blog, but there is hard evidence to the truth of this and I feel as an american we have the right to voice our opinions. Do I agree with either party 100%, absolutely not, but this I think is almost the deal breaker for me!
Abortion is a very touchy subject, afterall, I'd give anything to have my baby with me. So with that being said I do not think it is right to terminate a baby. I am on the fence though because I believe if it is a life threatening situation then maybe it should be considered. I don't know I am glad do not have to make a decision like that. But for those that do this, Induced Labor Abortion, shame on you! An innoscent baby should not have to suffer, because oops you made a mistake! Have you ever heard of adoption?
Obama wants change, well so do I, but not if it means we don't care about our future!

Just for Papa...

2008-10-20T21:53:00.003-05:00

How is this for ya Papa???
I do want everyone to know that even though Papa Acker is going through his chemo and been a little up and down, he was still at the Buddy Walk. If you haven't been over to his blog lately...here is a quick update. He just finished his second round of chemo. The first round went pretty good. He now has a new do, or I should say lack there of...shiney bald and he actually pulls it off pretty well. I think he thinks he is tough now:) His started to lose a bit of hair, tried blaming the cats for shedding, when actually it was him. So in honor of his shiney new do, Jason wanted to do the same. So Saturday morning before the walk, Jason went shiney as well. I didn't think I'd like it, but I actually did. Anyways Papa had a little spell of forgetfulness, which is another side effect of the chemo, other than that he was feelin pretty good. Round 2 was this last Friday and so far so good. We sure do appreciate you keeping him in your thoughts and prayers.

If you get a chance leave him a comment on his blog, he would LOVE IT!!!

http://efacker.blogspot.com

BUDDY WALK SUCCESS!!!

2008-10-19T23:39:00.007-05:00

We had a great time on Saturday! I was a bit stressed though. Things were not set up the way they were last year and I had no idea. It ended up being fine, but I was a little on edge, so I apologize to anyone if you felt I was being a bit rude! I have to tell you though even with all the chaos, it was amazing. The Buddy Walk brings such happiness to us. We only wish our little angel was there walking with us. It did hit me at one point while we were walking. I was so sad at the thought that we would never cross the finish line with our special little one. But I guess she will always cross with us cause she is forever in our hearts...blah blah blah! I know I sound like a whiney butt, but oh well I am a whiney butt! I am in one of those moods, poor us! I just miss our little pink and squishy soooooooo much. And being around everyone on Saturday makes me miss her even more!

On a different note, we want to thank everyone who supported us whether you were there to walk or you sent in a donation Team GABI'S GRACE raised $1080, which is $80 over my goal!

The PERFECT Queen

2008-10-15T10:32:00.001-05:00

I actually was planning on posting this story yesterday and didn't have time to. Then a friend of mine posted it, so I figured I would copy her post...thanks Amy:)
Anyways it brought tears to my eyes so have a tissue near by. Kristen brings so much hope to many others out there. And as her sister said, "Not matter who you are, everyone is the same and you should treat everyone the same as well."

I think that says it all! CONGRATS KRISTEN!!!

Down Syndrome: To Noah With Love

2008-10-10T20:06:00.004-05:00

In the spring of 99, a gift from up above,was sent to me from heaven to cherish and to love.

He's not what I expected, and at first I was afraid,

but who was I to question, the choice that God had made.

For he gave to me an angel, so precious and so sweet,

and I thank Him each and every day that the two of us could meet.

I named my angel Noah, he's the love that I adore.

He needs me more than ever, but I truly need him more.

I'll turn my times of sorrow into happy times at last.

The crying and the heartbreak will be memories of the past.

We'll look forward to the future and the milestones that it holds.

We'll battle all the boo boos, the sniffles and the colds.

We're together for a reason, It was clear right from the start.

I'll be loving him forever, till death our lives will part.

by Vonda Weikert

Gabi Made OUR World a Better Place...

2008-10-09T23:32:00.005-05:00

I often wonder what life would have been like if things did not turn out the way they did. I obviously loved my daughter with all my heart. I never wanted her to suffer, I never wanted her to leave us, but those were things we had no control over. Do you honestly know what it is like to watch your child in pain and know that there is nothing you can do to help her. My heart aches thinking about it. I do know that the choices that we had to make were not easy, but I have to admit it was not something we doubted for one second. We did not want her to suffer, we did not want her to feel any of the pain. We wanted her to feel the love that surrounded her with every breath she took. We wanted her to rest peacefully.

I get angry because I wish there was something more the doctors could of done, but that is just it, there was nothing more that could of helped our pink and squishy.

I am so thankful that Gabi was a part of my life. She gave me new meaning to how I want to live out the rest of my life. I have said it a million times and I probably will say it a million more...I was touched by my very own angel and for that I will forever be thankful. She introduced us to an entire new community that I knew existed, but never knew anything about. I see more happiness and love in that community than any other. I am so blessed to be a part of such special peoples lives. I love reading their blogs, seeing their happy little faces...they truly make the world a better place!

Dan's April In Paris

2008-10-07T23:22:00.001-05:00

What every girl dreams of for the prom. We should all be so lucky. Dan is one amazing guy!

BUDDY WALK

2008-10-06T22:37:00.003-05:00

Did you know that there are only 11 days, maybe only 10 if you are reading this on Tuesday, until the 13th Annual KC Buddy Walk. Our team reached my personal goal to raise $1000, but there is still time if you want to be a part of our team. The KC Buddy Walk is one of the largest in the nation. KC's goal this year was $325,000...well we have reached that goal and now the 2nd goal is $355,000 which would take over Cincinnati's lead spot as I believe Top Dog.

KC has 284 teams

6190 Walkers

$343, 092 raised

Down Syndrome Facts

*Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring genetic condition with an incidence of 1 in every 800 births.

*There are currently over 350,000 individuals living with Down syndrome in the United States.

*There are approximately 5000 babies born with Down syndrome each year in the United States.

*There are approximately 50 babies born with Down syndrome each year in the greater Kansas City area.

*Down syndrome is one of the leading clinical causes of cognitive delay in the world - it is not related to race, nationality, religion or socio-economic status.

*With appropriate support, individuals with Down syndrome can lead fulfilling lives and be contributing members of society.

If you would like to be apart of this amazing experience, click on the picture below and join us Saturday, October 18th...

A Poem with Extra Love

2008-10-05T21:07:00.003-05:00

Twist of Fate
by Matt Yount

This poem was written by a boy who is extremely blessed with his little sister who has a little something extra...

A twist of a fate brought a special gift to my door

How was I to know what God had in store

The gift was wrapped in beauty and filled with love

It was more special than I'd ever dreamed of

At first I was unsure if this was really a gift

But all my doubts faded when I felt my spirit lift

The gift that God gave me was my special little sister

Overflowing with God's light, there's no way I could have missed her

She has brought me nothing but joy and laughter

The two things in life that are most sought after

She sings me songs and brings me to tears

With a smile or a hug she wipes away all my fears

She is more than my sister, she's one of my best friends

Her heart is so pure and her love never ends

She was everything I never expected

She was a gift from God who was specially selected

I love her so much we're each other's biggest fan

Her influence in my life has made me a better man

I wouldn't trade the world for the moments that we've shared

Because without her in my life who knows how I would have faired

Her future is so bright, I can hardly wait

My life has changed forever, thanks to a simple twist of fate.

I HAVE A VOICE

2008-10-04T10:45:00.001-05:00

A Month of Awareness

2008-10-01T11:25:00.004-05:00

October is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month. I would like to pay tribute not only to my angel, but to those who live this life everyday. I truly admire these individuals. They laugh harder, smile more often, and love unconditionally. I never realized how much I was really missing in life until Gabi arrived. She gave me a new reason to live and most importantly more reason to love. The poem, Welcome to Holland was first given to me after we received Gabi's diagnosis. I will never forget the day I read it and how much it touched my heart. With that being said I leave it with you to read as today's Thought of the Day...

Welcome to Holland

by Emily Perl Kingsley

I am often asked to describe the experience of raising a child with a disability - to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience, to understand it, to imagine how it would feel. It's like this...
When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous vacation trip - to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make your wonderful plans. The Coliseum. Michelangelo's David. The gondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It's all very exciting.
After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes in and says, "Welcome to Holland."
"Holland ?!?" you say. "What do you mean Holland ?? I signed up for Italy! All my life I've dreamed of going to Italy."
But there's been a change in the flight plan. They've landed in Holland and there you must stay.
The important thing is that they haven't taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine and disease. It's just a different place.
So you must go out and buy new guide books. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will meet a whole new group of people you would never have met.
It's just a different place. It's slower-paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you've been there for a while and you catch your breath, you look around... and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills... and Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts.
But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy...and they're all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life, you will say: "Yes, that's where I was supposed to go. That's what I had planned."
And the pain of that will never, ever, ever, ever go away... because the loss of that dream is a very, very significant loss.
But... if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things... about Holland.

Smiles for your Monday morning...

2008-09-28T23:07:00.008-05:00

The lastest stats on Kinsley...she is 12lbs. 15 oz and 24in. long. My baby is 2 feet tall, that is almost half of me she is gonna pass me up before she is in school:)

Things have been awfully busy around here and I don't see things settling down anytime soon. So for now here are a ton of pictures. Have a lovely monday morning and hopefully I can find time later this week to put a real entry in here. But I know how much everyone loves pics, so I didn't figure anyone would mind...

I am not proud of my girls at all huh!?!

Dreaming an Angel

2008-09-22T17:53:00.003-05:00

Sorry for such the delay since the last entry, I just haven't really been in the mood to blog. You would think that with such a beautiful healthy family I'd have so much to say...I do, but it just doesn't seem right to be so happy when inside I am so sad.
It has been a while since I have had an emotional entry, so be prepared. I am so sad but not for the reasons many of you would think. I am obviously mourning the loss of my child, but I do not feel like things are going the way they should. Who says how I should feel or not feel, all I know is that what I feel now it has to be wrong. I am in such a state of denial. I see her pictures everyday around the house and it makes me smile. But I often wonder who she is...here is what I mean by that. She was here for such a short amount of time we were cheated and did not get to know her the way I always dreamt for any of my children. She blessed us with an entire new outlook on life, she made us better people, she touched our hearts in a way I will forever be thankful for, but she broke my heart the day she left. I still have anger in me that I thought would be gone. I feel like it was all a dream. Gabi came into our lives and as soon as we got comfortable she was gone. I had a dream last night and when I woke up this morning it felt so real. The dream did not relate in anyway to Gabi, but when I woke I had to pinch myself back to reality! That is how I feel about my precious baby. I know she was here in my arms. I have pictures and her toys, her clothes...tons of her things, but it is all just stuff...Where is she? Why isn't she here to wear those clothes, play with those toys, be in more pictures? More importantly why did God think she was better off in his arms rather than mine, I am her mother, how could anyone be better for her than me? And how will Kinsley ever know enough about her? I feel like I don't even know enough to be able to tell her all she should know about her sissy.
I fear forgetting I feel like everyday she becomes more distant in my mind. She is forever in my heart, but when you have so few memories they seem to fade and that scares me to death.
When I look at Kinsley I see so much of Gabi in her. Obviously they look alike they are sisters. I never saw down syndrome when I looked at Gabi, that is not who she was, she was this perfect little angel that gave my life new meaning. And now when I see Kinsely I see a new reason to keep going after such a tragedy. And my sweet Gracie, she keeps me going as well. I hope someday she realizes just how much she helped me stay focused on her and Kinsley. I have to give Jason credit too! There are days I would love to just stay in bed, but with 2 girls on the go and a husband who depends on me as much as I depend on him...we all have to keep focused!

Punky, Mommy misses you more everyday. I thought that with time it would be easier, but it is not. I cannot wait to see you again! I wish I could hold you, kiss you, love on you and someday I will. But until then I will be missing you like crazy...xoxoxo I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE you with all my heart and soul!

4 months later...

2008-09-13T23:17:00.002-05:00

Thursday we had a huge moment I hope to never forget...Kinsley rolled over for the first time! It was like watching Gabi's first time. I was so excited, I called Jason immediately...he was on his way home from work. As soon as he arrived I layed her down and she did for him a few times, she is a show off just like Pink and Squishy! I screamed I was so excited! Before you know it she will be crawling, IKES...I don't think I am quite ready for that!

Last night when I put her to sleep she rolled a few times and couldn't get back over, she screamed and cried. I went in and turned her over. Finally I ended up putting the little foam thing that keeps her from moving around. I feel bad cause she a wiggler, but I am afraid she will roll over and get stuck. I know I know she will figured it out, but I am just not ready for her to do it on her own:)

We think she is starting to cut teeth as well. She constantly has her hands in her mouth. She gets fussy if she is not chewing on things, and she drools ALOT!!! We could be wrong, but she really enjoys her teething ring and the teething tablets...we'll see!

Well enjoy the pics...

Check out that shirt...Daddy is a Rock Star

Gracie's crazy braids

All dressed up for church, notice the dress Kristy:)

Teething ring and her Nike bean

Standing in her crib for the first time...seriously what is next???

And the Awards go to...

2008-09-12T20:03:00.003-05:00

My friend Alisha over at Izzy 'N Emmy's blog gave me the Brainy Blog Award. Apparently she thinks I give good insight on things...Thanks Alisha!!

I proudly accept this award, so I must . . .

1) Think of at least 5 bloggers that you believe to be “Brainy Bloggers”

2) Post it on your blog for all to see! Let them know you’ve awarded them by email, twitter, etc or via a comment on their blog!

3) Share some linky love and link back to both the person who awarded you. http://izabelandemilyjack.blogspot.com/

4) Come back to the Brainy Blog Headquarters to sign our Mr. Linky and then pass it on!

I would like to pass this award onto the following brainy blogs:

Megan at Miracles Happen

Amy at Kaden and Angel Ava

Carey at Dream Big

Pam at Rhett's Journey

Amy at The Flege Farm

Ladies I hope you will accept this award. You can find the full description of this award and the html for the blog award in two sizes at the Brainy Blog Award Headquarters.

Thanks again Alisha for thinking I have good things to say:)

A Touching Moment...

2008-09-12T10:47:00.007-05:00

Learning About Down Syndrome ...CBS Night News

After watching the clip from the link above and thinking back it makes me even that much more blessed that we were chosen for Gabi. Although there are some comments I do not like or agree with in the report, it is still a good story. I am so thankful that someone in high profile is bringing attention to our children who very rarely get the attention they deserve! Gabi was the best thing that came into our lives. We give more, want less, find happiness in every situation, and love better. Gabi and all her little friends are the most compassionate people I know. Our involvement will continue as Gabi lives on in our hearts.

Here is a friendly reminder, if you haven't signed up to walk with our Team Gabi's Grace you better do sign up...t-shirt deadline is next friday, the 19th!

A Day to Remember

2008-09-11T08:51:00.003-05:00

For those who have lost their lives and those who continue to fight for our freedom, we give thanks. It is so hard to believe that 7 years ago today the attack began. I just hope that soon we can find peace and bring our men and women home!

HaPpY AnNiVeRsArY HoNeY

2008-09-08T16:00:00.005-05:00

Hard to believe this was only 2 years ago. I have truly been blessed with an amazing husband, and 3 incredible little girls. Not a day goes by I don't wish our first little angel was here with us, but every other aspect of my life with you baby is PERFECT!!! With you by my side, and me by yours, WE can accomplish ANYTHING! I love you so much, thank you for being my rock, my soul, my best friend... LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE

BaBy GiGgLeS

2008-09-08T08:25:00.003-05:00

Kinsley is getting so big so fast. I have been meaning to post some video, figured it would be a great way to start off your Monday. Daddy sure knows how to make a girl giggle!

this could be yours...

2008-09-03T12:25:00.001-05:00

DEADLINE, Just Around the Corner

2008-09-03T09:38:00.004-05:00

Attention all interested in joining Team Gabi's Grace for the 2008 Buddy Walk...The dealine to order t-shirts with our team name printed on them is just around the corner, Friday, September, 19th. We want to thank everyone so far who has joined but I know many of you out there have not signed up yet, Mimi and Papi, Mema and Papa, not to mention a few other family members as well...HINT HINT HINT!!!

I have made it easy for you, click on either picture and it will take you directly to the page you need to join our team or if you can't be there to walk, make a donation!

On that same note I am so excited to announce that we have made one of the top list for the walk. We have made to top 5 for the Largest Pre-Existing Team, we have 18 walkers so far. I know of 8 more that will be joining, the largest team has 29 members, I am sure we could get that top spot, but I need your help...JOIN OUR TEAM!!

GO TEAM GABI'S GRACE

HELP ME, PLEASE

2008-09-02T14:00:00.002-05:00

Ok so I have been trying to leave the code for the buttons to our blog and our website for people to be able to grab them, I have come to a total blank. I can't figure out how to make the little box come up under the buttons...someone PLEASE HELP ME!!!

email me the directions, I would GREATLY appreciate it:)
micah@giftsofgabisgrace.org

Our BIG Girl...

2008-08-31T15:02:00.005-05:00

This week Kinsley has accomplished many new things. Well maybe I should rephrase that, she has experienced many new firsts. It amazes me how quickly she is developing, before you know it she will be crawling all over the place, saying her first words, and dating...hahaha!!! Hopefully that is a very very very long time from now.

My neighbor comes over almost everyday with her 2 year old, Jess and Joellen. Joellen loves her baby Kaddy! So when they were over, Jess mentioned I should put together the exersaucer and see Kaddy does in it. Thanks for the little push to do so, because Kaddy LOVES it. I guess I thought she needed to be much bigger, ha, the seat is a little big, but she can sit up in it and reach all the toys. It is a little advanced for her, but a little extra work never hurt anybody. I cannot believe how much she does play with the toys on it. She reaches, pulls, pushes buttons...most of it is accidental hits, but she still does it and smiles and giggles when it make noises. Soon she will realize it it her that makes the noises go off.

One night at dinner this week I put her in her high chair for the first time, perfect fit. I always set her in the vibrating chair while we eat, so she can be with us, but it is always on the floor, so she has to look up at us. It doesn't bother her, but when I put her in the high chair, talk about grins and giggles...she LOVED being up with mommy and daddy!

I gave her cereal for the first time too! She isn't a huge fan, she definitely likes me better, but it was something new and fun to try. I think she wore more than actually made it into her tummy, but we will keep working on it!

Please mommy, don't make me do this!?!

And finally her last first of the week, we took her to the Ren Fest yesterday. She is so stinkin cute, she had a great time. Such a good time she went about 4 hours before she realized she hadn't eaten, that is huge in the late afternoon. Gracie wore her little fairy outfit and we all enjoyed the day. We will be out there quite a bit since Mimi and Papi are working there again this year. If anyone is interested in going or wants to meet us there please be sure to let me know!

Notice Kinsley is holding Gracie's Fairy wand...she is such a strong little monkey!!!

Worlds of Fun

2008-08-25T11:36:00.007-05:00

Gracie had been promised all summer if she was good she would get a big surprise, from Mimi and Papi. Well is was time for redemption, and the kid had one heck of a day. We all got to go to Worlds of Fun, the big amusement park here in KC. She had been once before but she was 3, so never has really experienced the fun. At the beginning of the day we had to convenience her to get on the rides, but as soon as we'd ride them, she'd want to get right back on. She loved it! Papi and Kinsley hung out most of day while the rest of us rode the rides. My brother and I rode all but one roller coaster, we love the thrill. If you ever go to Worlds of Fun, I highly recommend The Patriot, it one of those coaster you feet dangle...it was awesome! I even managed to get Jason on it, although he didn't really like it. He has a bit of a weak stomach when it comes to rides, poor guy can't even ride a carousel.

The very first ride of the day, she had to go twice:)

This turned out to be Gracie's favorite ride, the Octopus

Michael and I are in the very front

Uncle Michael and Kins, oh she loves that thumb!

Kinsley had a rough day waiting on us

Gracie was ready to sneak up on a kid

Gracie, me, and Mimi

Jason got in his kicks too!

All aboard...

Princess Kinsley

Time to go home, check out all of Gracie's winning and she had more stuff not pictured!! Overall a very good day! Thanks Mimi and Papi:)

Piggies for Gabi

2008-08-21T22:13:00.004-05:00

Giving thanks and asking for prayer...

2008-08-20T23:26:00.002-05:00

We would like to thank everyone for their tributes to Gabi today. It was definitely a rough day for Jason and myself, but with the help of a little wine and my in-laws we made it! I am still getting photos, I will post many tomorrow of our friends all over who wore Piggies with Pride today. If you haven't emailed them to me please do... micah@giftsofgabisgrace.org

On another note I want to ask for more prayers, sorry but we need more! My father in-law got his results back today from his surgery and things were not as we hoped. He is waiting to hear from his oncologist, he has to see a prostate specialist. The cancer is very aggressive, not something any of us wanted to hear. The good thing is, it has not spread so we should still be able to buy more time to attack hard!!! I know that if anyone can fight through this he can, but he needs strength. It would be wonderful if you could leave him a comment and let him know he is in your thoughts and prayers. http://efacker.blogspot.com We all know you read our blogs, we can see the hits on our tickers, but it is nice to hear from you too!!! Gabi is gonna be on Papa watch so he is definitely blessed with on special guardian angel. We love you Papa, we will be there fighting every step of the way with you!!!

Dear Pink and Squishy,

2008-08-19T23:01:00.006-05:00

Today is your birthday that mommy and daddy don't enjoy celebrating. It is the day that you received your wings and flew into God's arms. We know that it is extremely selfish of us wanting you here with us instead of in heaven with God. Well....we are your parents and it's our right to be selfish when it comes to you! haha The memories that we have of our short time with you are so amazing. However, the memories that are so vivid on this day are not one's we thought we would ever have to endure. The battle we constantly have is one of wanting you in our arms and of wanting you to be healthy and happy. In God's plan those two could not go hand in hand. To be healthy and happy you need to be with him. That is probably the hardest thing for us to accept as your parents is not feeling like you would be safer, healthier and happier in our arms. We know in our minds that you are where you are supposed to be and we are going to be with you again soon. It's our hearts that continue to ache for you and want nothing more than to take care of you.

You have taught not only us but thousands of others to appreciate life, love, and all the children for every moment we're given before we begin our real lives in our eternity in heaven. We will always miss you and be torn apart by the fact that you are not with us. We also value the time and the lessons that you gave us and promise to carry them on to others as long as we are hear on earth to share it. You brought us so close to so many amazing people that are so much a part of our life now, we don't know what we would do without them.

Now on a different note. Gracie misses you something fierce too so I hope you can find a way to give her the strength to grow from her time with you. I know you are playing with your new baby sister Pink and Squeaky cause she has the hardest time focusing on us when you are flying around daddy's shoulders! I'm sure you're wearing your pigtails and having a great time with all your new friends in heaven. We think about you always precious and long for the day that we are all together again as a family.

Love, Love...Love, Love

Daddy, Mommy, Big Sis Gracie, and Baby Sis Kaddy

DON'T FORGET...

2008-08-19T11:08:00.005-05:00

Tomorrow is NATIONAL PIGGIE TAIL DAY in honor of Gabi!!! If she touched your life in any way, please remember her tomorrow and remember the thing that we love the most about her...her piggie tails. Ok maybe that's not the thing we love the most, but it one of our best memories! Mommy and Daddy love you pink and squishy!!!

Tropic Thunder...NO NO NO

2008-08-14T15:57:00.002-05:00

I was gonna write a big old shpill and go on and on about this new movie but I have blogger friends who have done it for me. There are 2 links listed below I think are very important for anyone with a conscious to check out. Thank you!!!

The first link is an article that was written by a mom just like me, proud parent of Parker

http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/217/once-upon-a-time-there-was-a-retard/

The second is a news report, the story is on a very special family...The Birds, Pam and Rhett are friends of me and Gabi

http://www.abc4.com/mediacenter/local.aspx?videoid=85719@video.ktvx.com

Thank you for those of you who said extra prayers for Papa. He made it home this morning and he is to be resting! Jason, Kins, and I plan to see him tonight. I did talk to Mema earlier and she said he is in some pain, which is to be expected, but he is doing well! If you would like full updates, hop on over to his blog... http://efacker.blogspot.com

Special Prayers for Papa

2008-08-13T19:35:00.005-05:00

Today Papa Acker had surgery, the old fashion way I might add. He refers to this surgery as a roota-rooter. Not only did they go in and clean him out, but they wanted to see if the cancer has spread. He is out of surgery and doing well according to Mema, but we will not results for a bit. We/He would greatly appreciate a few extra prayers for him. He is a tough old guy, so we know things will be in his favor, but never hurts to have a few more prayers!

I sent Gabi on a special mission today. I talked to her about Papa and how important is was to be there with the doctors working on him as well as being there with him through the surgery and recovery. I know my girl and she is taking good care of him!

On a side note I wanted to mention Gracie went back to school today! It is so hard to believe she is in the 2nd grade already! She was super excited and ready to see all her friends. She wore the cutest little outfit, I had to show her off:) Love you kiddo, believe it or not I do miss you already!

Miss Kinsley continues to grow like a weed, here's a few cute pics I have been dying to post, she is soooooo stinkin adorable!!! I finally caught a couple of smiles on camera, she was laughing at her Daddy at the time...he is so silly!

Never take for granted...

2008-08-11T09:29:00.003-05:00

Looking back at some of my favorite pictures of my sweet punky makes me happy. I can remember the moment I can remember everything about how amazing my baby girl was. It saddens me I can no longer have those moments today or tomorrow, but at least we did have the time we had! Gabi taught us so much about life, the thing I have learned throughout this entire experience is just how precious life is and to live in the moment...Give thanks for everyday we have together. Sorry I know I keep saying this over and over, but I cannot express enough just how important it is. So as you start your week off think about what kind of difference you can make in your kiddos lives. Think about the things you would want them to know if you could not see them again. It is a terrible thought, I know, but so can the end result if you choose to not share those feelings. That is one thing Jason and I know we did right with Gabi, she knew and felt every ounce of our love. We were there every step of the way, we fought with her just as she fought to be with us!

Gabi is sporting new shades that sissy bought her! She sure knew how to work the camera:)

We LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE you

Pink and Squishy!!!

Straight Strugglin'

2008-08-08T09:21:00.004-05:00

Oh our precious Gabber Goo!!!

Everyday is a struggle for many reasons. I often wonder if we will ever get out of our current situation? We are both very determined and strong willed people I know we will, but how much more can we take. I hate to dwell on things that ultimately mean nothing in life, but when you can't seem to make any ground it is awfully difficult to think positive about anything! If you are the type of person who can't stand a little complaining this entry is not for you. I never intended this blog to become such an emotional book, but I never knew how life was going to be.

I layed in bed last thinking to myself about what people say to us on a daily basis, "How are you doing?" or "Wow, I can't believe it has been so long!" or "She (meaning Gabi) is looking down on you right now and she is so proud!" Of course we give the usual answers, we are doing good, I know it has been a long time and yes I know she is always around protecting us. But what I really want to say is that we are terrible. We don't talk about Gabi the way we used to, we don't remember the little things like we used to, we are not the strong parents everyone thinks we are. We are human, our hearts are broken. And it is the worse kind of broken you can imagine. We will never get to touch our first daughter again, we never got to hear her say her first words, watch her first steps, open presents at her first Christmas, tear into her first birthday cake...I could go on and on. I still have such a difficult time understanding why. I am so short tempered these days and I absolutely hate it! I have so much anger inside of me. I want to be that happy mommy I once was, but she is gone, forever! I have responsibilities with Gracie and Kinsley and I will still be the best I can be, but I often wonder how it would be if Gabi was still here. Poor Kins is gonna be so over protected, I hope she understands! And then Gracie she has been amamzing, but I hope she never feels like she is being short changed either.

I love our girls more than life itself, I just wish we had all 3 of our girls with us. It has been a long year, but even with that being said I can't believe how quickly time has passed. Last night I had to send an email with a picture of Gabi to the hospital for a Memorial Service that is being held in October. While Gabi was in the PICU I never once thought for a second this is the kind of email I'd be sending a year later. Unfortunately things do not always turn out the way you want, but you must keep moving forward. Learn from the past, take time to be thankful for the things in your life everyday...meaningful things! I cannot emphasize that enough. As much as I would love to go shop, have a good time out with my hubby, or spoil my girls...the things that truly mean the most is us just being able to spend time together. So honey, sorry for the frustration lately, but I miss you and spending time together is the only thing that is truly important to me! I know it will get better, but it always seems to get worse first! So I guess I will just sit tight and surely things will change soon, at least that is what I pray for.

Give those babies hugs and moochies everyday, don't just tell them you love them, mean it...let it show by your actions!

And as always...REMEMBER GABI!!!

TEAM GABI'S GRACE 2008

2008-08-04T17:59:00.005-05:00

Just as we did last year, we will be participating in the 2008 Buddy Walk. This years walk will be October 18th. I am excited this year the walk will be in October...that is Down Syndrome Awareness Month! The Buddy Walk was established in 1995 by the National Down Syndrome Society to celebrate Octobers month of awareness. The walk is only 1 mile long. We had an incredible turn out last year. We raised over $1500, this year my goal is $1000. We had a team of over 25 who walked in memory of Gabi. We would love for anyone to join us for the walk. But if you are far or cannot make the date we would greatly appreciate any donation towards our team.
Every step we take, every dollar we raise will help ensure that each individual with Down syndrome in the United States will be able to do just that. Last year alone, over $5 million dollars was raised nation-wide for local and national education, research and advocacy programs. Locally, we raised over $300,000 to benefit more than 850 families in the greater Kansas City area.

Simply click on the link below and it will take you to our team page! Remember big or small, every donation counts!

http://www.syssolutions.com/KCBuddywalk/main/Team.aspx?FundraiserId=f424fc42-67cf-44df-bb1b-24b32b8a5ac5

If you do join our team you will receive a t-shirt with our team name, Gabi's Grace, on the back, you will also get lunch and there are lots of activities for the kiddo's...it's great fun!

Remembering Our Angel

2008-08-02T15:23:00.008-05:00

This month I am going to focus on our little angel. You may ask why this month, well as hard as it is to believe, on the 20th it will have been a year since Gabi received her wings. What a long yet short year it has been. We lost our baby, found out we were pregnant, moved to Indiana, lost a job, moved in with my parents, had a beautiful healthy baby girl, and then finally moved back to Kansas back into our house. It seems as if we would be out from under it all, but things continue to challenge our lives. I never want to sound ungrateful for the things we do have, but things have been very very tough around our household lately and it would be nice for a bit of a break.

Jason finally found a job which he really enjoys. There is a new fitness club opening in Lawrence, Maximus, he is the General Manager. They are doing presales now, but come October things should really be boomin! So if you live in our area, make an appointment with him to check it out:) He is working crazy retail hours, so we hardly see each other. Which makes me sad cause we really got spoiled being around each other a lot and now we really miss each others company.

Kinsley went to the doctor yesterday for 3 shots...not fun, but she did surprisingly very well. She weighed in at 10 lbs. 11 oz. and she is now 22 3/4 in. long. She is growing like a weed and she gets cuter every second! She coos and giggles a lot, she smiles when smiled at, she focuses on object especially her silly daddy. They have a really cute little song and she smiles soooo big and giggles so hard when daddy sings it to her!

Gracie is getting ready to go back to school, she starts on the 13th. Seems like every year they start earlier. She is excited though. She is can't wait o be in her teachers class, although she wishes she could be in 1st grade again so she can go back to Gary's class:) I am sure she will see her plenty though in the halls, before and after school. She has been reading and practicing her sight words for 2nd grade. It has been a great summer, but we are all ready for school.As for me I am super excited for the perks of Jason's new job, I get a free membership, so come October, I will be a gym junkie! It is about time I get my butt back into shape, among other things:)

Now most importantly my angel, GABI...
I wonder what she is doing right this second? I wonder how often she visits me and the rest of our family? I wonder how long her piggies are? I wonder if her favorite color is still pink? I wonder if she still gets pedi's and paints her pigs pink? I hope she is serving as the best President the Piggie Tail Club has ever seen. I am convinced she has lots of friends and she helps many like Angel Jack, Angel Brenlee, and Angel Ava. I hope she knows just how much Daddy and I miss her every single day. We wish we could hold her, hug her, smell her, kiss her all over! It is so hard to believe how much time has passed since we last held our baby, but we thank God everyday for the time we did have with her. We were once touched by an angel, how many of you can say that? She has been the reason Jason and I have not given up. We have faced many many challenges in this last year, but her will to fight and keep going gives us strength we never knew existed in ourselves. This month I will share some of my inner most feelings about the baby I once held and will continue to love her forever and ever. Be prepared with a box of tissues, cause I am sure we will all need them!

I do have one request on August 20th will you please put your kids in piggies for Gabi. And if you want take a picture and send them to me. It may sound silly, but I can't imagine remembering her any other way. I know many of you still follow our family very closely, thank you! The continued support definitely helps with each passing day.

I AM DECLARING AUGUST 20th,

NATIONAL PIGGIE DAY, IN MEMORY OF OUR PRECIOUS ANGEL, GABI

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!!!

2008-07-30T17:37:00.003-05:00

Today is the official day, Jason is now in his thirties. This is a big deal to him because he is the last one in his group to turn 31 and he for the longest time was eating it up he was not IN his thirties he was only thirty. Pretty silly if you ask me, but apparently it kept him young or something:)

Anyways this last Saturday I had planned a surprise party for him. It was a great success. We had people show up we hadn't seen in a long time and people who came from near and far. It started off a little slow, but as the night progressed we all had a fantastic time. Thank you to those of you who came to help celebrate. I wanted to have a surprise party last year for the big 3-0, but since we were in the hospital, that obviously was the last thing on my mind. So I wanted to make it up to him. I just wish I'd of taken some better pictures. About half way through the night I realized I hadn't taken any. Me, the mommy who never goes anywhere without my camera...it was on the counter the whole time...I was more interested in socializing!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY,

WE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE YOU!!!

XOXOXO

Piggies and Smiles....

2008-07-22T21:20:00.005-05:00

I cannot believe I did not post this sooner...I think the title says it all!! What 2 month old baby do you know can sport piggies??? My girls were blessed with a full head of hair, what can I say, Daddy and I produce well together:)

New Friends and lots of 1st...

2008-07-16T21:54:00.010-05:00

This is Gracie and Kinsley's new little friend Reese. Her little sister, Brenlee, was just like Gabi and is one of Gabi's angel buddies. We like to call her family our twin family, it is amazing the similarities 2 families can have. This was the first time the girls got to meet. They instantly became best buds! We hope to get them together again real soon!

So much has happened since I last posted, we have had a lot of 1st with Miss Kaddy! As you can see from the picture above she got her 1st haircut this last Sunday. It started off ok, she was asleep, but that didn't last long. That ok though all I really wanted to accomplish was to trim the back, it is now full and fluffy...kind of:)

And then the 2 above were just cute, I cannot believe how much personality and spunk this little one has. Boy are we in for a treat as she gets older. I do have some exciting news, the last 2 nights she has slept through the night. Bedtime is no later than 10pm and she has not been awake before 6:30am. It has been so nice finally getting some real rest. Ok so I have to admit I am not positive she is sleeping the entire time. I have been turning down the monitor (I can still hear her though if she throws a total fit). But overall no problems and she is doing great with it. I am so proud of my baby girl!

Now is the most adventurous thing Miss Kaddy has done since birth...she went out on "Uncle" Aaron's boat. She loved it! Daddy held her up and let the wind flow through her hair, she did not squawk once. We did buy her a life jacket and it was huge, but it was infant size, I think that speedo has no clue the size of a real infant, it probably would of fit Gracie.

And now the best for last...I do believe on that boat ride we had a special little guest, check out those Gabi rays!!!

FDFDS Golf Tournament

2008-07-15T09:55:00.009-05:00

Well I figured since the FDFDS Golf Tournament is more of what I focus on and Micah focuses more on the Buddy Walk then I should put this entry in!

We would first like to thank Brian Lantis and MarLan Construction for sponsoring a hole in Gabi's memory. This is the second year in a row that we were the only people to have an individual sponsored on a hole, so we were pretty excited about that again.

We did not do all that great playing but we had a great time. My older brother Fred Acker Jr. played on the team. He's not a very avid golfer but a natural athlete so we used quite a few of his shots. We got more entertainment out of him on the trip home from the group photo...man it was funny. Travis Shuck played who was Freddie's best friend growing up and became one of my best friends too as I got past the annoying little brother phase, which was just a few years ago! haha. Travis is always a good time and yesterday was no different, I love his hat and may have to find one myself. Travis got tired of making fun of Freddie on the way home and fell asleep! Brian Lantis played with us as well, Brian is another childhood friend of ours. Again more Fred and Travis's when we were younger and I'm pretty sure I went back to being Freddie's annoying little brother yesterday with Brian! Now Brian is supposed to be our ringer but since he's been spending more time trying to keep his blood pressure down from coaching little league than golfing, his shots tended to slide a little to the right. One was a beaut though that was only a few feet from taking out the window of his own truck! I played brilliantly of course so no need to add any notes on my playing...haha NOT!

As we have all known each other for several years now it was a really good time. I'm hoping they'll all come back to play again next year, hopefully with some practice! My goal for next year is to raise enough money to sponsor a couple of teams as I have other friends that wanted to play but we were lucky to even have one team this year.

Here are some more pics from our day of Golf!

A Day Fit for a Princess...

2008-07-11T13:02:00.005-05:00

Princess Kaddy, ruler of all cuteness!!!

On Wednesday we met Megan and the girls for lunch at Crown Center. Once a month they come to KC for Bella's appointments and it is our thing to meet with them, I gotta see them somehow:) After lunch they headed to CMH and I decided to take Gracie and Kinsley to Kaleidoscope. Now if you have never taken your kids there before, it is a must...best part about it, it is FREE!!! It is part of Hallmark, I believe it is a lot of there scraps. It is a huge room full of arts and crafts. Nothing has instructions, the kids just get to be a creative as they want. Parents get to join in on the fun too! I remember going to kaleidoscope as a kid, it was my favorite field trip. Anyways, Gracie made her things and I obviously hooked up Kinsley. We will definitely be going back before the summer is over!

Fireworks, Lilly Pads, and Dumdums

2008-07-07T21:20:00.010-05:00

We spent the 4th at Mema and Papa Ackers. We cooked out, the kids played in the pool, then they fished in the pond, and then fireworks. We had a great time, I just love getting together with the family! Then on Sunday, we went to my parents. We played at the pool, then cooked out. It was yet another great time! Here are some pics from the weekend. Kinsley got a new floatie from Mimi and Papi...it's a lilly pad. They got it more for next year, Mimi thought it was too cute and had to get it. But it actually works for her now, oh she is just too cute for words:)

I almost forgot, Kinsley tried a new sweet treat today. It was a Banana dumdum, yep you got it...she had her first sucker and LOVED it!!! She loved it so much she cried when I took it away. So maybe on occasion when she is a good girl I will give her a little sweet treat:)

Gracie enjoyed her dumdum too!!!