Honeymoon # 2...kind of :)

What an awesome week! We just returned this Wednesday night from a four day trip in Arlington/Fort Worth. Cliff had coaching school, and we decided to make a vacation out of it, so with the help of some family members we stayed in a super nice hotel and had help with little Grace who stayed in Marble Falls with Mimi, Papa Fish, and Uncle Matt. Elijah joined us, and we went all over DFW. In addition to the coaching seminars, we visited the Stockyards in Fort Worth, TCU, downtown Fort Worth (which is so beautiful!!), our old friends from Dallas, my old work, Joe T. Garcia's (amazing Mexican food!), and enjoyed the pool, hot tub, and yummy breakfast buffet/feast at our hotel.

Cliff and I haven't had a trip together since Grace came along, so it was such a treat. I even spent one afternoon while Cliff was listening to speakers walking around the mall and Target for three hours. I can't even remember the last time I went to a mall. I actually went through every aisle of Target too. I may be crazy, but I have to admit it was really fun. Elijah just took everything in, mostly slept and chilled out in his car seat. I am still amazed how good he is.

Even though we had some much needed marriage time, we did miss Grace a ton. Each time we would see something she would have enjoyed...the zoo, museums, cattle, pool...we wished she was there. It is amazing how these little people became such a part of you! Your always thinking about them. I just wish we could figure out a way to make long car trips more enjoyable for her!

We had so much fun, that I forgot to take pictures. These are the only two...

At Joe T. Garcia's Mexican Restaurant. Yummy!!

Just Chillin

Elijah Newborn Pics

Here are a few precious pics of Elijah! You can check out more at http://paigemeyerphoto.blogspot.com/2011/07/newborn-session-baby-elijah.html.

Kids in Color

Last week I started a new bible study with some moms at our church. We introduced ourselves and then our children by drawing them in color. The colors we choose represented their personalities. I thought is was a very creative and effective way to describe Grace and Elijah, so I thought I would share it with you, so you can get to know our little pumpkins better!!

GRACE

She is 100% girl (notice the purple and pinks). She loves to emulate mommy by helping with Baby Elijah, carrying her purse, pushing her baby in the stroller, getting the broom out to sweep the floors, cleaning up the floors with napkins when she spills her milk, and playing with makeup. She isn't crazy about clothes yet, but that could be a good thing. :)

I had to use marker instead of pencil or crayon because her personality is bold and loud. She is high energy, goofy, sometimes high maintenance, extremely curious, super smart, doesn't meet a stranger, and the life of the party. She likes to terrorize Emma the dog, run and scream with delight throughout the house, play rough with her dad, throw balls and toys, and get messy in the dirt.

There is a serene side to her also. She can listen, obey (at times) and be so very thoughtful. She loves to pray and reminds us several times throughout dinner and our day. She is an incredible blessing and challenges us daily to be better parents and better people.

ELIJAH

Well, he is only three weeks old, but he still is so different even as a baby. He is incredibly laid back, calm, and sleeps incredibly well. He is an easy, easy baby. I look forward to seeing the little man he will be!

Having Two

So Cliff and I have only been at this for less than a month, but we honestly agree that two kids are better than one. It is hard to explain, but it was like we didn't realize what we were missing until he came along. I guess it is also easier the second time around because we are much more relaxed. Grace also has another person to think about, share with and take care of. It has been really good for her and her development. She is handling it pretty well too. She is quick to respond to his cries offering toys, pacifiers and blankets. She has even tried to pull my shirt down and exclaim EAT!, so the baby can nurse. I mean she is a smart one. Let's just hope that doesn't happen in public! Elijah is growing fast and is already up to over 8 lbs from 7 lb 11 oz at birth. He is calm, cool and laid back. Nothing seems to really phase or bother him unless he is hungry. He is an easy baby. We are having fun, and I know it has been so enjoyable because Cliff has been home. Just a few more weeks and school is back in session, so we are cherishing each day we have.

Wearing their little brother and big sister shirts from Aunt Missa

Grace loves to brush her teeth...rather chew on her toothbrush. The cute dressed was made by her Mimi, Cliff's mom.

Elijah's matching outfit

Grace going golfing

We decided to take family out last night with both Grace and Elijah. It was $1 putt-putt, so who could turn that down?  We had my sister, Charissa, her husband, Matt and my Dad in town to all show Grace how to play golf. It was so much fun. Grace's main goal became picking up everyone's ball on the green and giving it back to them. She thought she was being very helpful. Elijah came too and slept peacefully in his stroller...he is such a good baby! Here are some pics from the night, thanks to her uncle Matt!

Elijah - Week One

Elijah Ray!

Elijah Ray Holdridge arrived Friday, July 1 at 12:21 PM measuring 7lbs 11.5oz and 20.25 inches. He is absolutely perfect! We are so blessed!