CHANGE. . .this is the theme for our family this past year. We moved (again:), welcomed a new baby, said our goodbyes to a loved one, and survived a major career change. Through it all, God has been good and we have been blessed.
Last Christmas we talked about the idea of moving and by the end of January 2010, we were settling into our new home! There is a long story about how this all came about but we couldn't be happier with our decision. We have a cozy layout, a great neighborhood, and a large backyard for the kids to play. I will say that I don't want to move again for a LONG time, espcially 6-7 months pregnant! This was the second move being pregnant:).
On May 10th, 2010 we welcomed Abigail Claire Blakely into the world! She was 7lbs 14oz and was 21 3/4inches long. She has been such a source of joy in our lives. She has an amazing temperament and loves interacting with her world. She LOVES her big sister and her big sister LOVES her. It is so fun to watch the sisterly bond they have already developed and we look forward to seeing how their relationship flourishes in the years to come.
Two weeks after Abigail was born, Jayme left for 5 months for the Police Academy. He lived down in Burien, Monday through Friday, training hard to join the ranks of the Lake Stevens Police Department. It was a major career change for Jayme and a major life change for the whole family. The girls and I felt so much love and support from our friends and family during that time. We couldn't have survived without them and we are forever grateful!
During Jayme's time away in the Police Academy, we received some devastating news about the medical condition of Jayme's dad, Brian Blakely. He had been battling all sorts of complications associated with his ongoing cancer treatments. He went in for a major surgery April 21st and was in the ICU for over 3 months when it was realized he would never fully recover. Brian passed on July 30th, 2010 and will be dearly missed by his friends and family. Soon after Jayme's police academy graduation in October, the whole Blakely Clan came together in Florida to celebrate his life. Our time was bittersweet. It was wonderful to be all together again but sad that it had to be under such circumstances.
On July 27th, my brother, Bryan, and his wife, Thandeka, welcomed their baby girl into this world. Her name is Busisiwe ( meaning "blessed one") Amiela Whitlock. We have yet to meet our sweet niece and won't get that opportunity for awhile since they live half way across the world in South Africa. My mom did get a chance to meet her 3rd granddaughter this past October and had a wonderful trip. She said that Busi is beyond beautiful and Bryan and Thandeka are incredible parents. I can't wait for the time when all three girls can run around and play together!
Jayme is now settling into his career as a cop. He has worked both night and day shifts and has responded to all sorts of 911 calls. He is still in his probationary period and his brain is in overdrive as he works hard to learn all the department protocols. Overall, he is loving his job!
I am still teaching part time at Gateway Middle school and am back in a jobshare situation with my teaching buddy who also welcomed her second baby last year. I work every Tuesday, Wednesday, and alternating Mondays. I love my schedule and love my job even more! Emma is still going to Cedar Park Christian School two days a week and Abbie is being cared for by her Grammy and Grandma Nay Nay. What a blessing grandparents are:).
Jayme and I continue to enjoy being Daddy and Mommy to Emma and Abbie. Life is a bit crazy with a 7 month old and 3 year old around but we wouldn't trade it for the world! Emma is becoming quite the little sassy girl but I guess that goes with being 3 years old:). She is ALL GIRL! Emma still loves to sing and dance and has a real interest in making bead necklaces, wearing tutus, and getting her nails painted. I have caught her several times getting into my make-up and attempting to put it on:). But even at 3 years old, she really is as sweet as can be! Abbie has become such a laid back and happy baby. She was tough at the beginning because of her struggles with acid reflux but she has grown to be such a different infant. She is so responsive to people and watches everything her big sister does. She is more interested in playing and talking in her crib rather than sleeping during the day. . .I honestly don't know how she is still so happy with such little rest! All in all, Jayme and I couldn't feel more blessed by our two sweet little girls.
We are looking forward to a joyous holiday season and we wish you all the same!
God Bless,
Jayme, Kristin, Emma, & Abbie
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