Our Little Water Baby

We did a lot of swimming and water activities this summer! It's already becoming cooler, and we already miss the outdoor water activities! Here are some pictures of Maddie doing her most favorite thing during the summer:



And although the summer is over, we are so very excited for the fall activities to begin! :)

4th of July Festivities

Highlights from our 4th of July celebrations:

• Maddie was named "honorable mention" in the beautiful baby contest for her age group

• Went to Provo's 4th of July Parade (it was packed...)

(enjoying treats too....)

(REALLY liking the floats)

(keeping "cool" with the shades)

(quality time with Daddy)

oh...and the parade.....

• 

• Enjoyed family picnic with the extended Empey family

• Had Flag Cake! (now a tradition in our family)

What a fun and PACKED day! :) We enjoyed celebrating together as a family, but definitely missed the family we had with us last 4th of July when my family was here to meet little Maddie---here she is one year ago----I know this statement is cliche, but time really does go by so fast! We miss our itty bitty Maddie, but our toddler Maddie is so much fun and continually makes us laugh all day!

Madisen's 1st Birthday

So i have DEFINITELY been absent from the blogging scene for way too long! Life got a little crazy after our family vacation, but there's been A LOT that's happened! Among them......Maddie turned ONE! Her party was "ONE-Derful" too. Thanks to good friends who helped to prepare the cakes (thanks, Misti!) and for those great ones who came to celebrate too! Here are some highlights:



What a fun time we had, indeed! It's hard to believe my baby girl is already 15 months old. The time went by so fast and at times it's sad that she will never be my little newborn anymore...she's growing SOOOO much and developing so fast right in front of our eyes every day. She's so smart and unbelievably sweet. She is willing to give kisses to ANYONE who asks, loves to say "hi" to everyone as they pass her, and is such a cuddle bug with her mommy and daddy. She is the pride and joy of our lives and we are sooooo grateful to have her as part of our family. Funny how it doesn't take long for something so little to completely change your life. In this instance, it's been for the better. Of course, parenting does have its challenges, but we've been so blessed to have such a happy, beautiful girl who has the sweetest spirit. And although it's sad to see her growing up so quickly, we have learned to treasure every day the good Lord gives us and to make the most of it.

....More updates from the summer to come....
STAY TUNED!