WHAT DOES A SHRIMP BOAT, CHRIS HOLDING A BLOWFISH, AND ME BEING EXTREMELY SICK HAVE IN COMMON?

It was July 2002, Chris and I had been living in Biloxi, Mississippi for 5 months and were enjoying the Air Force life. My mom, her husband Brent and my sister Steph decided to come and visit us over the 4th of July. I hadn't been feeling the best, really light headed, nauseated, extremely exhausted and just didn't feel myself. I had been running a lot and told Chris that I was going to train for a half marathon. I was increasing my mileage running and just thought my body was adjusting to this and didn't think much of not feeling so well. Being pregnant though was out of the question. My family arrived and my sister said, "you look like a little mom." I thought that was kind of weird, but what do 16 year olds know. During their visit we decided that going on a Shrimp Boat ride would be a lot fun. When we were on the Shrimp Boat I didn't feel the best and thought that I was dealing with a little sea sick. We were all listening to the tour guide give his presentation when he asked if anybody would want to hold a Blowfish. Chris volunteered and that was the end for me. I got so nauseated and sick that I ran to the top deck and spent the rest of my time throwing up over the edge of the boat. My step dad Brent went and found my mom and said, " I think you have a pregnant daughter who is throwing up on the top deck of the boat." That was just the beginning of my throwing up days. Yes, I was pregnant and after one long and extremely sick pregnancy our Eliza Alice Steele finally arrived on February 17, 2003. She was the cutest baby, but yet had a streak of spitfire written all over her. I can't believe that my baby girl is 6 years old. Where does the time go? What I do know is that I love her with all of my heart and I am the luckiest mom in the world to have such a wonderful daughter as she is. Eliza as you celebrated you 6th birthday I hope it was all that you wanted and more! Also, that you will always remember how much your daddy and mommy love you always and forever! HAPPY 6TH BIRTHDAY ELIZA!!!!

Eliza turns 6 years old!
(February 17, 2009)
Happy Birthday to our Sweet Eliza!

Eliza was so excited for her birthday! When Christmas was over she would ask on a daily basis how many more days until her birthday. Sometimes she would get so frustrated and cry because she wanted her birthday to be that day. When the 17th of February finally arrived she was the happiest little lady ever!

I remember birthdays when I was little. They were the best! My mom would make my birthday very special. I always knew that when I woke up our dining table would be decorated and presents would be waiting for me to open. I am doing my best to have our dining table decorated for our kids on their birthday too. Birthdays are so special for each child! The day they were brought into the world...... brings tears to a parent's eye.

Oliver decided that playing Wii was more exciting that Eliza opening presents.

Right on! Bowling is way cool!

Mommy and her 6 year old Eliza! Where does time go?

Daddy with his sweetheart....

Eliza knew that packages were in the mail from her family back in Utah. When the doorbell would ring she was the first to open the door. This is one of her packages she received from Pappy and Grandma Leste. Thank you!

Money is the best! 5 dollars Yahoo!

I am going to get this darn package opened you just watch me!

I am one spoiled girl! Thanks family for everything!

Eliza the 6 year old Birthday Girl! Going out for her Birthday Dinner! Eliza chose to go to her favorite chinese buffet restaurant. She was able to pick whatever she wanted to eat and enjoy being with her family!

Eliza and Lucas enjoying their dinner.

Oliver thought eatting this orange was fabulous!

Our Birthday Girl!

Maria and Eliza
Eliza wanted brownies for her class treat. She kept asking me if I would please make extras. She said that she wanted to be able to go around and share them with her other favorite teachers in the school. Eliza has such a loving heart towards others. I love this about her.

Oliver loves going to Eliza's Kindergarten class. He gets all of the kids attention and he is quite spoiled with hugs and kisses. Below he is watching Mrs. DeLeone talk with the class as if he is in Kindergarten already!

He definately rules the Kindergarten room!

Our Eliza Bee sitting on her teacher's (Mrs. DeLeone) lap, as her class sings Happy Birthday to her.

Eliza was so excited to pick out her birthday crown from Mrs. DeLeone's Box. She loved having all of the attention on her special day!