Mike's Visit to Sandusky

A few weeks ago, I wished my father-in-law Happy Birthday! You can read that post here. I also mentioned that he was on his way to Ohio that very moment. And, what a weekend we had! We celebrated his birthday at the Japanese Steakhouse, which Miss T loved, had a super fun Memorial Day cookout with some friends and family, went fishing, and the guys built Tinley a swing set that would make any kid jealous! 

It's always sad when our visitors leave, especially now that Tinley is starting to remember people. But, that's the price we pay for living in a different state than the rest of our famiy. At least we have pictures! Thanks for a wonderful visit Papaw! We love you!

Gifts and Japanese Steakhouse for Papaw's Birthday!

Memorial Day Cookout with friends and family!

 Building the swing set...

Papaw Slater came from WV to visit and help!

Miss T helped supervise... 

It's finally complete!

Papaw relaxing and having fun with his Princess!

Nicole's Bachelorette Party!

This past weekend, my best friend got married! I'll have more on that later, but this is all about the bachelorette party we had for her a few weeks ago in Charlotte, NC! What a fun time. I was a little nervous. A- because I was planning the whole thing, and so of course, I wanted everything to be perfect, and B- because I really would only know 3 of the girls, including Nicole. But, I'm an outgoing person, so I really wasn't too worried about that. I knew we would have a great time and by the end of the weekend, all really like each other, and boy was I right! 

Friday, we made the 2 1/2 hour drive from Raleigh to Charlotte. Upon arriving downtown at our hotel, we were greeted with champagne during check-in. Score! The other bridesmaids and I decorated our suite, and we all spent the night opening gifts, playing games, ordering pizza, and just getting to know each other. It was the perfect first night. 

Saturday, we hung out by the pool for a bit, but the clouds started to take over, so we explored the area, where there was TONS going on. What a fun place! Saturday night, we all went to dinner at a cute little pub, then hit up Whiskey River, the largest country bar, and Howl at the Moon, a fun piano bar. Both were walking distance from our hotel. It was a wonderful day and night, and when time came to say goodbye Sunday, it was actually quite sad. I only hope Nicole had a much fun as I did! Here are some pics from the weekend, in no particular order...

Trendy Tot Tuesday

Happy Trendy Tot Tuesday everyone! I have missed you all. We have been so incredibly busy, but I think things have finally calmed down for a while. Miss T has had lot's of excuses to sport some of her cutest outfits, so I thought I would show them off today!

Mimi's funeral with her cousins. Dress: Carters, Shoes: Stride Rite, Bow: Fabulous Female

A fun day with mommy! Entire outfit: Gymboree

Wearing red in honor of Mimi! Smocked Minnie Dress and matching bow: Tinkled Pink Boutique, Onesie: Ralph Lauren, Shoes: Wal-mart

At the airport in Wilmington. Monogrammed Chevron Bubble: Smocked-a-lot, Shoes: Stride Rite

Hanging outside! Shirt and capris: Gymboree, Shoes: Pedi Ped, Sunglesses: Target

Going out for Papaw's Birthday! Dress and leggings: Ralph Lauren, Shoes: Carters, Bow: Fabulous Female

Dinner at Elijah's in Wilmington! Chevron monogrammed dress: Smocked-a-lot, Shoes: Wal-mart, Bow: Fabulous Female

Lunch with Mommy and Da in West Virginia! Monogrammed chambray bubble: Smocked Auctions, Bow: K&K Baby

A fun day! Onesie: Ralph Lauren, Skirt: Target, Shoes: Gymboree, Headband: hand-me-down from Jamy!

Shopping with GiGi! Monogrammed gingham bubble: Smocked-a-lot

At the park with Mommy! Shirt and shorts: Gymboree, Shoes: Stride Rite, Sunglasses: Target

Want to join the link up? We'd love to have you! Follow Kelly, Megan, and  Lindsay, and link up your post! :o)

RIP Mimi

Two weeks ago, my Mimi passed away. I am so thankful that I took Tinley to West Virginia where she lived to visit her while she was still living. I will smile every time I wear red, or read the nursery rhyme book she gave Tinley. She was the most honest woman you would ever meet in your life, and wasn't afraid to tell it like it was. I loved that about her.

Within the past 3 months, I have lost both of my grandmothers, and although I miss them both every single day, I am so thankful I got the chance to know them, and make some wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. More importantly, I was able to introduce my daughter to the both of them and take some pictures that I will always treasure. I know they are in a better place, keeping each other company, and watching over us all. 

RIP Mimi, I love you. 

My cousin's rehearsal dinner: 2009

A trip to WV to visit Mimi and introduce Tinley: April 2013. Also my last visit with her.

Mimi's surprise 80th Birthday. September 2009. She was so happy to see my and my cousin Stephen!

My family! I'll never forget her house on Maryland Avenue.

Love you all!

With Mimi on our wedding day

This picture is very special. It's both my grandmas at the beach. I was just a few months old.

Mimi and I at my bridal luncheon: August 2010

You can read her obituary here.