Kennedy's Magical Birthday

Thanks again Beth for making the best invites!

This past Saturday Kennedy had her third birthday party. We celebrated with family and friends - including Nana, Papa Raftery, Aunt Kitty & Craig. Craig put on an exciting magic show. It was such a treat watching all the faces wonder in amazement at Magic Murphy's wonderful talent - all the kids loved him! My mom came in on Monday, my aunt Kitty arrived on Wednesday, Papa Raftery on Friday and Craig got in Saturday morning - the whole week was definitely a treat for us. Miss Kennedy was so excited the day of her birthday. She couldn't wait for her friends to arrive and for the fun to begin. My aunt Kitty and I put together a birthday outfit for Kennedy which consisted of a tutu with star embellishments, a t-shirt with an iron-on number three, and a princess crown. She looked adorable and was with out a doubt the birthday girl! It was a wonderful day and a wonderful week! Thank you mom, Papa Raftery, Aunt Kitty, and Craig for making Kennedy's day so special! Love you!


Hanging out with Aunt Kitty & Craig

Hocus Pocus!

Jumping with Aunt Kitty

Watching Magic Murphy's show

Landon and Nana (Thanks Amy for the great pics!)

Yum Yum!

More magic!

This was a great trick!

Bouncing away!

Can we say excited?

Kennedy and Nana

Mini angel food cupcakes (perfect for the little ones)

Sorry for all the pics - it's always hard to pick and choose!

The lemonade remedy

Today is the day that my mom left after spending a week with us. It never fails that when we drop her off at the airport, I start to get sad and unsettled. My mom means so much to me and it never gets easier saying goodbye. I did my usual crying as we approached the airport; however, this time I was consoled by my three year old daughter. As I drove off, she said, "Mommy, why are you sad?". I replied that I was going to miss Nana and she then told me to drink some of her lemonade and it would make everything better. It instantly made me smile and got me to reflect on how such a young life can make a difficult situation so much easier. She also added in that when we got home, she would give me kisses and hugs (those definitely helped).

Mom - I love you so much! As I sat down to write a blog on Kennedy's birthday party, I couldn't help but write about how much you mean to me! Thank you for making our week so enjoyable - we miss you already!

Happy Birthday Miss K!!

Three years ago, Jared and I were blessed with our little Kennedy. She gives me endless joy every day and it has been so amazing watching our little girl develop into who she is today. Every day is filled with something new and something refreshing. She wakes me with a "Mommy it's light out!" and she ends her days with "Sleep with the angels". She has gone from an infant who depended on me every second of the day to a young girl that wants to take on a new adventure every day. She is three and proud, she is curious and loving, she is witty and kind, she is spontaneous and adventurous - She is my Kennedy!
Nana arrived on her birthday - what a beautiful surprise for Kennedy!
This cake rocks!
Pink sprinkles it is!
Her first pedicure - Lavender toes with silver sparkles
Good morning surprises
Her favorite breakfast- waffles and bananas
Thanks Papa Gary and Grandma K
Her new Barbie tote - she's loving it!

Happy Birthday Kennedy!

"Turtle"

I've had these blank canvases sitting around for over a year now. I originally bought them to create a project from Martha Stewart but as life got busier and busier, I pushed my canvases aside. I decided to make good use of them and have Kennedy create some original art for our guest bathroom. We went out and got all the supplies - acrylic paint, brushes, sponges, etc. It was such a treat watching her this afternoon. She absolutely loves painting and she has this amazing imagination that I could only dream of having. One of her paintings she named "Turtle" - I thought that was pretty cute!
ABOVE: Her first out of four paintings
This was her second painting which I really loved
Proud of her accomplishment!
The finished product!

The Meaning of Father's Day....

To an amazing father:

Thank you for being a dad that our children adore! You ability to show them how to enjoy each and every moment always seems to amaze me. You've created special times for them that will continue to impact their life. Whether it's taking them to the park, going on a bike ride, or sharing lemonade - your always committed to pouring your time and love into them. I love you as a husband and I love you as the father of our children! Happy Fathers Day!

To My Father:

You've been there through every stage of life. Through the tears, through the joy, and through the moments only a dad could mend. Your a father that has shown me to enjoy life and to appreciate the small things in this world. Your notes of encouragement have always been a source of strength and I thank you for putting so much time and love into my childhood. It's true what they say about daughters and fathers - there is a special bond that only we can understand! I love you dad! Happy Fathers Day!

BRO and SIS

Relaxing after a hard day!

Just thought I'd share some pics of Kennedy and Landon after their swim.

Gymnast Kennedy

On our way to our first gymnastics class
She's super excited!!!

Miss Kennedy has lots of energy these days and we thought it was time that we get her involved in gymnastics. She has this amazing carefree spirit and is always willing to push her limits. Unlike her mother, she's not afraid of heights and loves climbing, jumping, somersaults, headstands, etc. Needless to say, Kennedy needed some letting loose time! We found a great place called North Florida Gymnastics. Her first class went great and we are looking forward to watching her enjoy this new adventure!

I LOVE DEALS!

I wouldn't necessarily say that I was born to shop; however, I do believe I was born to find deals. As many of you know, I'm always trying to find the best deals - clothing, vacations, makeup, etc. I came across one today that I just had to tell you all about. E.L.F is a cosmetic brand that Nordstrom is renaming into their exclusive brand. All their makeup, excluding a few kits, are selling for $1.00! Yes, one dollar!!! It's a fun line that has been awarded by magazines such as Allure, Oprah, and Self. Enjoy!

Here is the link
www.eyeslipsface.com

Landon's Colorful Party!

Granny Smith made this beautiful banner for Landon!

Landon's invite that my talented friend Beth created (Thanks again Beth)

This was the last photo at Landon's party - it looks like he's reflecting on his adventure filled day! (Thank you Amy for capturing some beautiful moments!)

YUM!
Proud Parents!
As you can see, I'm not so sure about this one!
This truck was a hit!
Gazing eyes

Our friend Joseph enjoying some bubbles
Miss Hailey!
Our Kennedy in action
All lined up waiting for presents and cake
My happy boy!

Landon's party was a fun-filled day! We had Granny and Grampy Smith down from St. Louis for four days and the kids truly enjoyed their time. This weekend made me reflect on a lot of things in life but one truth really stood out. Our military lifestyle may not allow us to live close by family; however, I truly believe that both Kennedy and Landon are forming beautiful bonds with our family despite the distance that separates us. I also believe that we've been blessed with an awesome group of friends-Friends that will always have a place in our lives!