Ch,Ch,Ch,Changes-that's the theme around here

So things are shaking up in a good way here. I love when you have that feeling that you are on the verge of something great. That tingly feeling that you get in your soul, like when your standing at the edge of the pool about to jump in. There are so many possibilities. It's scary and exhilarating all at the same time. That is how things have been around here. Trust when I say that it is still accompanied by the hard, and not so pretty times too, but the good is overwhelmingly better than the bad. The bitter moments just make the good ones feel even sweeter.
Isabella is growing by leaps and bounds and it is astounding how fast it is happening. She has always been so independent, but preschool has really helped her advance socially. In the last few months she decided on her own that she does not need a pacifier anymore (hello pictures without a paci in the way!), she also has decided that she will sit still on her own and eat dinner at the table. No more strapping this kid into a high chair. Time to say goodbye to another sweet piece of her baby stuff. It is soon to be cleaned (how nasty do those things get?!) and retired to the spare bedroom. She does so much better socially, in that she goes to nursery without throwing a fit, and she is very interested in other children. Such a leap forward for this one. She even practices sitting on the potty. Amazing things are happening in her world and I am loving being a part of the journey.
At Blake's work, there have been changes lately, and we may be in the way for a promotion with a small, although greatly appreciated, raise. I have considered taking a school course to get certified in a technical skill and be able to work from home.(I could never leave this sweet girl.) We have also been looking at buying a second car, and taking a vacation. I can not tell you how much each of these things would improve the quality of our life. We seriously have not had a vacation since 2006! A little sand between our toes might be exactly what this family needs.
I just wish that the cooler weather would get her now, and stay. I am so ready to pull the sweaters and boots out of the storage bin under the bed, and get to strutting my stuff.

(One last picture with the paci, for old times sake.)

The changes around here have been pretty amazing, and here is hoping that that the changes in your life bring you to a place of more happiness too. I must give all the credit to a loving Heavenly Father, who has blessed us beyond all that we deserve. I am thankful everyday of my life.