Abby Kate is TWO!

(*Note to readers: There are many new updates on the last few blogs, if you scroll down. I'm finally caught up...somewhat!)

Abby Kate is TWO!! (Or "Doo", as she says...)

Today was big b-day #2 for our Katers. And, even though some of us had a stomach bug :(, we still had a very fun day with our big girl. Here's our big girl at wake-up time! (And, yes, her hair looks like this EVERY morning. )

Look closely to see that Kendyll & Carlie, who were very excited to see their sister, were showing her how to make "2" with her fingers. This is an ongoing challenge for Abby Kate. And, you can see her reaction was to turn and face the wall. She was NOT interested in their assistance. But, eventually, she did find her own way to make "2".

Before we left for our birthday treat, the three girlies snuggled and watched some Elmo to "gear up" for Abby Kate's surprise!! Then, we got on our Elmo clothes!! Can you tell these girls had a really funny guy behind the camera? I love these belly laughs on camera. (And, notice Kendyll's big gap in front! Another lost tooth this weekend!!)

And, next.....do you know where we went?!

ELMO LIVE on stage!! What a fun show! We all really enjoyed it, and Sesame Street does a GREAT job with these shows. Every character was there (except Carlie noticed there was no Snuffy :) ), and Abby Kate was simply amazed to see her favorite people in person!

As soon as we got there, she was pointing everywhere, saying every character's names. And, it just got better from there!

And, look at this sweet expression when Elmo finally took the stage. Pure amazement. :) And, then, she just started waving and saying "HI Elmo!!!" It made us all smile.

Funny that mommy was actually knee-deep in a stomach bug at this show. A few trips to the bathroom, and we were good to go. :) Isn't that awful that I still went? Mark offered to take them alone, and I wouldn't hear of it! It was worth it just to see the girls enjoy this treat.

Tonight was presents and a low-key dinner at home, since we weren't recovered enough to be out again.

Abby Kate, you are truly the joy of our family. Thank you for all the ways you make us smile every day, and for the sweet & spunky girl you are. It makes Mommy quite sad to know you're growing into a big girl now. What will I do when my baby is too big to cuddle and rock? For now, I'll savor it as long as I can!!

We love you, big girl. Happy Second Birthday, AK!