Big Day and New Experiences

The girls in their big girl beds
Sweet Abby sleeping like a big girl in her bed

Rory cuddled with her zebra

Belle (Rory's zebra)

Tink (Abby's Lamb)

Tink and Belle

The girls' special Family Day treats

Toby is growing big

Sister snuggles in Abby's bed

For the girls' 2nd birthday, Michael and I decided that it was time to get each girl their own "big girl" bed. So, after doing some research and shopping for the perfect beds, we bought two twin storage beds. We decided to skip the whole toddler bed idea because they don't stay in them long enough to really justify the price (in our opinion). We also didn't want to use the crib toddler beds because Rory had already been doing dangerous stunts on her crib. We received both beds before the girls' birthday, but one of the beds was missing the screws and attachments. So, for the first week, the girls both slept in Abby's bed. It actually worked really well, but they still like having their own beds now that both are set up. We have been so proud of how well they made the transition. They go to bed and usually sleep for a good 10-12 hours at night. They are also still taking a good nap in the afternoon. They are such big girls!!!

As some of you might remember, Feb. 15, 2008 was the day that we finally got to bring little Abby home from the NICU. It was a tough stretch having one baby at home and one in the hospital. I wouldn't wish it on anyone. Last year, we made a point to celebrate the day that Abby got to come home and we were finally home together as a family. We call it our Family day and try to do something special. Last year, we all four went out to eat together. This year, Michael and I decided to do something that the girls would have fun doing. We decided to take them to the local Bear Mill and let them pick out and make their very own stuffed animals!! They had a really great time!! Abby picked a lamb. She really enjoyed getting to help stuff the lamb and then pick out clothes for her. She dressed the lamb in a fairy outfit. When they asked what she wanted to name it, she decided that "Tink" was the best name (that is one of her nicknames). Rory picked a zebra and decided to dress her in a pink princess outfit. She named her zebra "Belle." So, now we have two very special new stuffed toys in our family!! The girls love their new friends and sleep with them, play with them, take them with us in the car... etc. I think this year's Family Day was a success!! We look forward to celebrating it every year from now on!!