Gracie Girl

I just love this little girl. She's my big helper, buddy, third hand, and partner in crime.

This is classic Grace. Walking on her own. Swagger in her step. Oblivious to the world outside of where her mind is.
Our first night at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island Grace made quite an impression. We were enjoying a sunset walk along the porch after dinner with a number of other guests. A few other couples stopped and were watching Grace do her usual middle-of-attention stuff. They were in the middle of telling us how cute Gracie is when suddenly she scrunched up her shoulders, clenched her fists, and made the face. You know what I'm talking about? Seconds later, the face was replaced by an expression of relief. She looked around at her audience, shrugged a shoulder and shamelessly said in the most casual voice, "I just pushed all my poos out." Needless to say, we made a hasty retreat to our room.
Blowing kisses with great-grandma Venna


In the last several weeks, Grace has developed great sensitivity for our feelings of happiness and sadness. At least so far as these feelings apply to her behavior. Anytime there is a hint of seriousness or reprimand in my voice she spouts, "Are you sad or happy?" She will repeat this question until I answer. If my answer is 'happy' she'll follow up by asking to see my "happy face." (Something I say to her a lot that is now coming back around to bite me.) If my answer is 'sad' her immediate retort is "What will make you happy again?" This is usually followed by a few crocodile tears and "I need some wubs (loves)." We go through this dialogue at least 15 times a day.
More faces of Grace. The middle right is her saying "What the...?!" She thinks this is very, very funny. Gracie talks with her hands. This definitely comes from my (mom's) side of the family.
Grace is still obsessed with chasing birds. She started out tip-toeing towards these gulls so as to catch them unaware. By the time I got the camera focused, she was in a full run.


Though she has her moments in the tantrum spotlight, Grace is a very good kid. I know how lucky I am. She plays so well with Grant. She is still in love with her daddy. She makes me smile everyday. I am so excited for the personality she is developing- confident, silly, smart, caring.