and yet ANOTHER first {Daddy's Harley}

Olivia has been waiting impatiently for the weather to break so she can go for a ride on daddy's big bike.  We have had unseasonably warm weather here in Ohio (thank you very much) and he got the bike out last weekend. 

After a few battery issues, it was all systems go.  Our girl has a smile that lights up a room and the ride she took up the street and back didn't disappoint!  I see my seat has been replaced by my two girls since Abigail can't resist a ride on the bike either... 

Maybe a side car IS in our future?

Seeing the Difference {Already}

Olivia has been such a trooper with her hand/arm; no real pain, no complaining, just an inconvenience at bath time and bed time! 

We headed to the doctor on Tuesday to get the cast off and have her arm re-casted.  Well, the doctor was so pleased with her progress, she did NOT need a new cast.  He put her in a splint (she has to wear it ALL the time) and we scheduled therapy.  The next big decision we will need to make is whether to make her index finger into a thumb and her middle finger an index finger, therefore giving her a "pincher".  The doctor has a few young patients he has done this with lately and he has promised to call me over when they are here (parents permission of course) so I can see the benefits.  We would not do this until Fall, so we have a lot of time to make the right decision. 

And without further ado...(if you have a weak stomach, beware)

BEFORE -->

AFTER-->

Honestly, how awesome is that?

Happy Birthday {Abigail 7}

My first (and youngest) daughter just turned seven.  I can't believe it!  Abigail has been with us for almost five years now and she has grown into such a beautiful, loving (on her terms), KIND and CARING person.  She loves her sister like they've been together forever.  Yes, they argue, but in the end, Abigail has Olivia's back. 

We celebrated with a pancake breakfast dinner in her honor and topped it off with cake, ice cream and PRESENTS.  When we asked Ab what she wanted, she said anything she got would be nice!  Ahhh, love this girl's heart.  The best part about gift opening time {for me} was watching her and listening to her READ her cards!  Oh how far she has come! 

She is having her very first sleepover this weekend, two friends are coming and her cousins are coming over to party with us.  Should be interesting, to say the least! 

We are thankful every.single.day for the gift the Lord has given us in our Abigail, we love her with all our hearts.  (sorry for the awful phone pics, camera battery was dead)