Happiness is....

....G I A N N A

Did I ever mention that I am the mother to one of the happiest children on the planet? Oh, she comes with her moments - but don't we all.

This is the most typcial version of our daughter.

I can check THAT off my bucket list!

Maria's Bucket List #37:

 Publish a children's book

CHECK!!!!!!

Yes, my nine loyal readers, that's right!  I co-authored a children's book and it is now in print.

It's called "A Crawfish Tale" and I am proud not only because it's complete, but because it's a really good story with really amazing illustrations. 

Soon I will tell you more about the story, the book and the journey in making our dream a reality....but for now, I'll just leave you with a sneak peak:

It makes my heart SO happy to see my daughter hold the book that her mommy helped write.

BIG NEWS COMING....

.....and I SOOO wish I could tell you that it's a baby, but it's not

(or if it is --- I'm sure not aware of it yet!!!)

Here's your clue... 

Far-away Friends

Isabel and Gianna are far-away friends.

We don't get to see her (and her momma and daddy) near enough.

When Isabel was born, Gianna was almost six months old.

That's a BIG difference at that age.

Then they became toddlers, but there was still a difference...

Now, they are getting closer and closer in size, speech and personality.

Watching about five minutes of The Little Mermaid.

Some quick hugs....and then OFF THEY GO!!!

Then a new friend, Ethan, came to play....

What a lovely quick visit.

Love you bunches, sweet Isabel.

Fleeting Fad

As a baby, Gianna took an occasional pacifier.  If we were trying to quiet her in public or she had a hard time settling her, we'd use one.

Last week I found an old pacifier when I was clearing out some baby items.  She got a hold of it and popped it in her mouth.  She thought it was an accessory....and had it in her mouth for a good 30 minutes.  I would have taken it out sooner, but I was enjoying the quiet. (So sue me.)

Don't worry....it was just a quick fad.  It passed.