Big sister

So along with Katherine's arrival, came the big sister role for Riley. To be honest, we were more nervous about how Riley's world was about to change than bringing home a new baby. It would be an understatement to say Riley is a great big sister.

She came to visit at the hospital on Saturday morning, sporting her appropriate attire for the occasion.

Riley immediately wanted to hold "baby". Katherine is a mouthful, but we've got baby down to an art!

We were discharged Saturday afternoon (at my request I might add), and Riley greeted us at home before we could get to the front door!

Informing the family of the proper noise level suited for a new baby.

Riley, being the child of order that she is, she constantly is aware that Katherine's pacifier needs to be with her, or in her mouth at all times, the baby blanket is supposed to cover her up, not lay around. My boppy pillow belongs next to her. And she's a big help with diaper changes, etc. Riley has adjusted very well so far. I'm sure we'll have our moments, but thus far, she's done great at her new role!

Happy Birthday Katherine Grace!

Katherine Grace Nichols arrived on September 17th, 1:42 pm, weighing 6 lbs 14 oz, and was 20.5 inches long. My delivery was very easy, and she's the most laid back child I've ever met.

10 year high school reunion

The month of August was very busy for us. We had plans every weekend, and most all of them involved travel. I was 8+ months pregnant. Good times.

The last weekend of August was my 10 year high school reunion. It was fun getting to see my friends I grew up with, but it's funny with the world of blogging and Facebook, most of us have an idea of what everyone is up to. It's different than what our parents reunions are/were like.

I didn't take many pictures worthy of posting, but it was a good time had by all.

Baby Shower for Katherine Grace

Lots has happened in our world the last few weeks, but in my true orderly fashion, I can't "skip" and not post things, so I'm making a hard effort to catch up and get current with my blogging duties.

So a few weeks ago, perhaps a month, our neighbors threw us a diaper shower for baby Katherine's upcoming arrival. We are so blessed to such great neighbors, not only next door, but around the neighborhood.

The women of our families also joined us, and we enjoyed a girls lunch together at my favorite restaurant on the square, Cafe Piazza.

These are the great neighbors I speak of. Debbie and LeAnn live next door, and Bobbie is just down the street.

Notice baby John. He is 3 months older than Katherine. They are future boyfriend/girlfriend! You'll meet Jake, John's older brother below.
The gift table. They also had a matted frame everyone signed welcoming Katherine.

Yummo cake!

Meet Jake, Riley's boyfriend. They are in the same preschool class together, and we warned the teacher that they might be hugging and kissing each other. They love to play together.

Happy 2nd Birthday Riley!

We celebrated Riley's second birthday, on her special day, 8/14, in Columbus at Chris's parents house, where we were joined by my parents, brother, and grandmother. We had a fun afternoon with all the grandparents, opening presents, and then grilled out for dinner.

Riley was lucky enough to get to open a present after breakfast, to help get her day started.

Um, excuse me GG, please don't distract my present opening!

It's a new princess tent! Peek-a-boo!

Opening one of the many gifts that afternoon with the full family. It's a Barbie bike!

Checking out the new ride...

Look, I got a letter game from mom and dad!

This is the cake I made. It's one tier smaller than last years, but we sure did enjoy it.