Death brings Life

As most of you already know my mom passed away a few weeks ago. It was very sudden and most of my family was in complete shock. Many questions where asked, why God? Why my mom? Why so young? But ultimately we knew we didn't need these answers because God has a plan and he causes all things to work together for the good of those who love him. (Romans 8:28) So instead we have turned to God and decided to look at the positive. My mom had a great life; she met and married the love of her life, was blessed with three daughters, got to see all of us walk down the isle and say I do. She was there to witness her first grandson being born and spent two wonderful years with him. And she was able to learn that a second grandchild was on the way. Yes that is right, with death comes life and we are choosing to celebrate my mom's life and the life of Baby Gardner #2 due March 5th. While this is a bitter sweet time we know that my mom would be so proud. We love you mom.

My mom with Matthew earlier this summer

 Me at 12 weeks pregnant (Matt wanted to be in the picture to show everyone where the baby is)

Matt's 2nd Birthday and Soeder Family Visit's

Matt's birthday fell on a Saturday this year and we had some special visitors. My parents, grandma, and sister, brother-in-law, and their dog all made the drive to St Louis to spend the weekend. We had a great time and loved every minute with our special guests.

Matt was so happy to have Louie staying with us for the weekend, after he left he walked around the house looking for the dog for days. And yes, the dog actually stayed in my house (big deal for those that truly know me)

 Ken, Jamie, my Dad, and Brian went to the Brewery for a tour one afternoon

 We can't forget about Ted Drewes, it was Uncle Ken's first time

 On Saturday afternoon, my family took Matt so I could get ready for the party. Matt got to go up in the Arch for the first time.

 The weather here has been hot, so Papa decided to cool him and Matt off in the sprinkler

 Aunt Jamie decided she needed to cool off too

 I just love this picture, look closely and you can see my dad's facial expression (just makes me laugh)

 We headed to Sho Gun for family dinner to celebrate Matt's birthday

 He loved it, they even sang to him

I can't claim these but they turned out so well, I just had to post them.

 Some of the decorations

 Can you tell what the theme was yet?

 Happy Birthday Matthew (my baby is two, where did the time go?)

 Nana and GG enjoying some cupcakes

 He just loved his nerf arrow gun from Aunt Sue and Uncle Anthony (from Ohio), it was the hit of the party