tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18201123435201871292024-03-13T11:24:14.615-07:00All That I Can SayFrom Infertility to MotherhoodKaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.comBlogger99125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-53209844549824689162011-06-14T11:27:00.000-07:002011-06-14T12:49:26.269-07:00These Polka-dotted Shoes Were Made for WalkingI have been a very loyal blogger for a couple of years now. This began as a place for me to journal the range of emotions I was dealing with as a result of infertility and my miscarriage. I found I had this internal dialogue that just needed an escape so, for some reason, I decided to make it public. I don't know how many people have actually read all of the words I've put here, but I know there have been a few and that's enough for me. I know I helped at least one stranger through her struggle with infertility as well. I've said it before, but the journey it took for us to have a child has helped me grow. I feel like what was once an ugly, sad and dark time has transformed into something entirely different. Now that I'm "on the other side" of it all, I am able to look at it with an objective eye. At the risk of sounding overly metaphorical, it's now just one patch on the quilt of my life and it adds to the overall beauty of the collection. A collection of experiences that I've had and will have in the future.<br /><br />I've been debating on whether or not to continue posting here now. That is why I've been absent for a little while. I was sort of avoiding the decision. I also feel like I have other avenues to share our life with Jordan (read: Facebook). It may not seem like a big deal but this blog is very personal to me and I didn't want to just abandon it one day without a formal goodbye. I'm not absolutely certain that I will never post anything again, so this may be more of a "to be continued" than "the end". I don't know what the future holds for us in regards to having more children. We may end up at the RE's office again or we may adopt. I may feel the need to chronicle our next adventure and if I do then I will be back. I have prayed for guidance and I know God will lead us down the path He desires for us. I don't feel like Jordan will be our only child but only time will tell. For now I am just waiting for the answer to that question.<br /><br />Of course, what would a post be without pictures? Pictures are always a must.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">About to take a dip in the baby pool.<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_1156-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_1156-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a></span><br /><br />She learned sign for hat and then decided that wearing one was okay after all.<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_11941024x683-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_11941024x683-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a></span><br /><br />I just love this one.<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_12061024x683-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_12061024x683-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a></span><br /><br />Using her new walking skills to explore the backyard with Daddy.<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_1222683x1024-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_1222683x1024-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></span>Another one of my favorites.<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_1225683x1024-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_1225683x1024-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a></span><br /><br />A family portrait.<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_12311024x683-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_12311024x683-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-20814169969769699682011-04-06T20:40:00.000-07:002011-04-06T20:59:49.069-07:00Jordan's First Birthday in Pictures! (And my 100th post!)<div style="text-align: center;">She woke up happy on her birthday!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0638.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0638.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Enjoying some toast topped with chopped pears for breakfast.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0674.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0674.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />She had to spend some time doing one of her favorite things which is pushing the chairs around the kitchen.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0651.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0651.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />We went to Chick-fil-a for lunch but I left the camera at home. She enjoyed eating what I brought for her and one of my fries. There were also some balloons which always fascinate her. Then we came home and she took a nap. After some rest she was ready to continue her fun day.<br /><br />We are off to the park.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0681.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0681.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I think this swing is going to be fun mom.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0716.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0716.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />She enjoyed the view.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0722.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0722.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />No fear!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0726.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0726.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Yep, that was a lot of fun.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0730.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0730.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />We did a little bit of exploring. It was windy today, can you tell?<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0733.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0733.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Jordan's first trip down a slide. I'm pretty sure she enjoyed the ride.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0735.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0735.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />She stood here for a while and then attempted to crawl...<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0738.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0738.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />but she didn't like the wooden chips. It was time to go home anyway.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0746.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0746.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Jordan ate a lot of lasagna for dinner. A lot... of lasagna. She has tasted it before but this time she made a meal out of it.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0747.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0747.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Lasagna makes a girl thirsty.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0757.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0757.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Signing "all done". It was a really fun day!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0760.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0760.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Jason and I sang Happy Birthday to her just before bed. She smiled the whole way through and I think that is because she really did have a happy birthday. :)Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-30432062003006089052011-04-06T12:16:00.000-07:002011-04-06T12:39:48.348-07:00Dear Jordan,Happy Birthday to my sweet baby girl.<br /><br />You were born at 9:35 in the morning one year ago. We didn't know you would be welcomed into the world quite that early but thankfully you were healthy and strong. I remember hearing you cry for the first time and I cried too. I was so happy and I couldn't believe that my wish had finally come true. Dr. Reed brought you around the curtain so I could get a quick peek at you before they dried you off and wrapped you up. Your blood sugar was low so they had to take you to the NICU for a little while but they let me give you a kiss on your cheek first. I remember how soft and squishy your cheek felt. That was the first of many kisses because I still just can't get enough of your squishy cheeks. I'm so glad you have learned to give kisses and hugs back now. Your little arms wrapped around my neck make me so happy!<br /><br />You have brought countless smiles to so many different people's faces. That includes family, friends and all the strangers you have charmed with your cute little grin and wave. You have truly brightened this world! Especially when it comes to your Mommy and Daddy's world. We have so much fun watching you play and explore. You are curious, determined, cheerful and have moments of such sweetness that I try to relish it because I know you will be busy again just as quick! I cannot believe how much you have changed in one year. You went from a tiny 5 pound baby to a cruising, waving, laughing, babbling, pointing, speed crawling, and recently climbing (eek!) little girl.<br /><br />I am so excited we are celebrating your first year of life and I look forward to celebrating each year to come. I love you!<br /><br />Mommy<br /><br />(I have pictures to share of course so I will come back with those for my 100th post! I can't think of a better way to celebrate 100 posts.)Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-32844236237346931012011-03-11T19:06:00.000-08:002011-03-11T20:05:33.955-08:0011 Months - My Little ValentineA few weeks ago we celebrated Valentine's Day with our little Valentine. Jason was sweet and bought us each our own bouquet of flowers. My gift to him was a framed picture of Jordan that he could take to work and I must have taken 75 pictures but only ended up with a few that were worth framing. This girl is just too busy to sit still for a photo.<br /><br />And... a few days ago I turned 30 and Jordan turned 11 months.<br /><br />Eleven.<br /><br />Months.<br /><br />I'm not sure which is more unbelievable. That I'm no longer in my twenties or that Jordan is less than a month away from being a one year old. I can tell you that I'm way more excited about one than the other.<br /><br />Jordan is currently into exploring every room and thing in the house. She explores everything <span style="font-style: italic;">but</span> the toy box these days. Today we almost had the cliche mess of a child in a flower pot but I was able to get there just in time. I'm not sure how many times her hands have ended up in Daisy's water bowl and her hand prints line the bottom of the television. I'm also mystified as to why she is tempted to taste the granules that are in the bottom of the fire place but she looks at me like I'm crazy when I try to feed her green beans. Today she ever so gracefully spit some back out with the distinct look of disgust on her face. (What a stinker.) She is still endlessly fascinated with Daisy while Daisy is still less than thrilled about that fact.<br /><br />I think her favorite thing to do right now is to point. She points all day and at everything. We go outside and she points at the trees, the cars, the houses, the leaves and tells me all about them. Her babbling is sounding more and more like her own language. I truly believe she is telling me about things even though I can't decipher what it is yet. But I enjoy our conversations none the less! She is also quite the copycat and has learned how to fuss at the dog. The pointing comes in handy here as she will wag her finger and babble some commands to Daisy after I've fussed at Daisy to get out of the kitchen. That's right girl, you got my back.<br /><br />Other than that, I'm putting some things together for Jordan's birthday party. I know it will be here before we know it!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">This isn't the one I gave to Jason but I liked it too. Maybe she will grow up to like Daisies as much as me.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog2-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog2-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Our pretty flowers from Daddy. Was it presumptuous of me to assume the bigger one was for me?<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog4-3.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog4-3.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Hanging out at the Weymouth house on my birthday. Notice the indiscriminate pointing.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog10-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog10-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The family had decided we had a theme this time and that included mustaches.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog11-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog11-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Jordan wasn't a fan.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog9-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog9-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Forget toys. Socks are way cooler.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog8-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog8-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The pointing continues!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog1-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog1-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The many...<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog6-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog6-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />many...<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog5-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog5-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />faces of Jordan.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog7-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog7-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Last but not least, just because you have a pretty face does not mean you always take a pretty picture.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog3-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog3-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-3329274178913158532011-02-10T14:26:00.000-08:002011-02-10T20:10:04.206-08:0010 Months - Cruisin'The little peanut that came home from the hospital under five pounds is now about to graduate into a bigger car seat. Technically she was a few ounces too light for her first car seat the first time she rode in it. Just for nostalgic purposes...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1029.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1029.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /></div><br />Who is that teeny tiny little baby who was too small for her newborn sized clothes??? Now we have a cruising ten month old who I can hardly keep up with. She is using her crawling skills to keep me on my feet (literally and figuratively).<br /><br />Lately Jordan has decided if Jason and I are laughing about something then she should be laughing too. Then of course we laugh because she is laughing and so the cycle continues. She is also learning that she can do silly things to make us laugh. (Pictured below is one of those times that she knew her goofy faces were entertaining me.) It's good times in the Minter household. <br /><br />We've also had two snow storms this month which is a bit strange for North Texas. We let Jordan touch the snow but I don't think she liked how cold it was. I hope this strange weather returns when she is a little older! We saw a huge group of children sledding by our house and in a few years we will be joining in on the fun.<br /><br />Now every mother has the best of intentions when it comes to what they will feed their child. I've made all of Jordan's food, mostly with organic produce. Right now her favorite seems to be yogurt mixed with applesauce and blueberries. She's still enjoying puffs and I am doing my best to keep her interested in veggies. I think she has realized that she is getting the short end of the stick though and she would rather have what we are having. Even if it's an ice cream sandwich...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">No, I did not let Jordan taste my ice cream sandwich. No, that is not the evidence on her face.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_3040.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_3040.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Blueberries are great but they are messy!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_3001.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_3001.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />Daddy and baby silhouettes.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_3031.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_3031.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />My little ham was squinting her eyes at me and laughing.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_3010.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_3010.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />Wearing her "Jordan" shirt she got for Christmas from her cousins. She refused to sit still for a picture!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2965.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2965.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />My little mini me. I have to find my baby pictures so I can show off how much she looks like me here.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2936-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2936-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />Snow storm number one. Her first snow!!!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2898.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2898.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />Snow storm number two. She didn't know what to think of all that cold white stuff.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_3052.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_3052.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />After being stuck inside for three days from the snow and ice, we started to get a little silly. <br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_3036.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_3036.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-19476895269877169402011-01-06T09:59:00.000-08:002011-01-09T21:17:48.161-08:009 Months - One Feet, Two Feet, These Are Neat Feet!Jordan Mae (aka: Stinkerpot, Little Miss, Booger Bear, Snuggle Bunny, Little Gene, and most recently "La-La", per Daddy, since that's what she says 24 hours a day) is 9 months old today. That means we are 3 months away from her first birthday. I feel like we have gone from counting up to a countdown. A countdown to the age of one!<br /><br />Our girl went from crawling one day to pulling up the next. Literally! For a while she was doing her own version of crawling that looked a little disorganized and was not the most efficient method of getting around (even though eventually she would get where she wanted to go). Then one day she finally figured out how to organize all those limbs into working as a team and then the next day she decided it was time to move on to the next thing. Now we can hardly keep her off her feet because she uses everything to pull up on. Our legs, tables, couches, the ottoman and she's even tried the wall a few times but without much success. <br /><br />She has also been learning how to feed herself. While she isn't completely sold on most solids that we've tried, she does enjoy feeding herself little puffs. The first time I gave them to her she must have sat in her high chair for 45 minutes just focusing on getting those little pieces into her mouth. For a while there were more going into the chair and onto the floor than in her mouth but tonight I only found six in her chair. I'd say her accuracy has improved quite a bit! She also finally cut two teeth on the bottom. Hopefully someday she will be willing to put her teeth to good use.<br /><br />One thing that is fun about this age is her personality is showing more and more. I find evidence of who she is in all the things she is doing. I am even doing my best to put a positive spin on the fact that she has quite the opinion about certain things. <br /><br />1) She is always reaching for things and going out of her way to get her hands on things she probably shouldn't have. Translation - She will be a goal oriented person who won't give up on her dreams.<br /><br />2) She gets so mad at me when I remove her from an area she shouldn't be. Translation - She won't let society tell her what her limits are.<br /><br />3) She doesn't sleep much and often thinks it's time to play when it's really time to sleep. Translation - She will be the life of the party and a lot of fun to be around. (That's fine as long as she doesn't have <span style="font-style: italic;">too</span> much fun.)<br /><br />4) She would rather be held than sleep in her bed. Translation - She is a very affectionate and loving person. <br /><br />Of course she is not always getting into trouble. There are times that she will just crawl over to me and lay her head on my leg. She also will lay her head on my shoulder and give me a quick snuggle every once in a while. I know every parent probably believes their child is intelligent but I truly believe we have a smart little cookie on our hands. Her pediatrician pegged her a genius months ago. While I think "genius" might be overstating, I am willing to agree that she is going to have her Daddy's smarts. Apparently a high needs baby can often mean a smart child, so with that in mind, the bags under our eyes are merely evidence that we have created someone special.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Visions of sugar plumbs are dancing in her head. Asleep on Christmas Eve.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2790.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2790.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />Christmas morning and curious about that snowflake.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2793.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2793.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />She didn't care to unwrap any gifts but she thought the bows were lots of fun!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2811.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2811.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />Continuing the solids adventure.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2783.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2783.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />I just love her outfit and expression here.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2722.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2722.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />Visiting her Great Grandpa (her Gene counterpart) and Great Granny during Christmas. She had fun playing with Grandpa's hands.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2857-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2857-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />We also visited "Uncle" Troy. He thought she wouldn't like him but she looks happy to me!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2862.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2862.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />Using her new skill (standing) at her new toy.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2888.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2888.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />There is a Jordan in there somewhere.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2882.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2882.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />My happy girl!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2773.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2773.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-61920961073625000752010-12-15T10:07:00.000-08:002010-12-15T18:48:32.909-08:008 Months - Peekaboo, I See You!8 months and this girl won't slow down!<br /><br />She is waving like crazy, crawling, attempting to pull up and playing peekaboo.<br /><br />The waving is usually more of the whole arm flying recklessly back and forth but it looks so enthusiastic, I love it. Of course it's one of those things that she does randomly and hardly happens at socially appropriate times. We always wave back though so we probably aren't helping. :) She will get it eventually.<br /><br />The crawling is ever improving, much to Daisy's dismay since she is often the destination. It's either her or the Christmas presents that are all too tempting with their bright wrapping paper and colorful ribbons. I have one designated present that is all hers to destroy and will definitely have to be re-wrapped before Christmas morning. Oh well, we just consider it practice for her first opportunity to open presents. She won't know why I'm finally encouraging her to rip paper to shreds since usually I'm rescuing whatever important document she has gotten her little hands on (and inevitably goes into her mouth). On that note, I found myself wanting to apologize to the sales clerk at Children's Place the other day for the half slobbered tag she had to scan. Drool is just an occupational hazard in a place like that though.<br /><br />The attempts at pulling up started one day after she officially began crawling. It started just after we got home from our trip to Amarillo for Thanksgiving. I was sitting on the floor and she grabbed my knees and with all her might she tried to stand. Now that seems like all that she is interested in. Forget trying to perfect the crawling, standing is way more fun. My biceps are getting quite the workout since she still needs plenty of assistance.<br /><br />And then there is peekaboo. Cutest thing ever. First she discovered that she could raise her arms above her head. Before, all of her toys were in front of her, but now they can go on her head! The progression to peekaboo happened naturally. She had her taggie blanket and attempted to put it on her head but covered her face instead. Upon removing it I said "peekaboo!" and that began our new game. Yesterday she was playing it in her carseat with her bunny security blanket. She must have done it 20 times or more. The best part is that she was watching herself in the big mirror on the seat while I narrated from the front. I don't know who was more amused, Jordan or myself.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Our busy girl.<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2595-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2595-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a></span><br /><br />The laptop is one of her obsessions. (Her cloth diapers are temporarily not being used due to a rash issue. Too bad because they are much cuter in pictures.)<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2582-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2582-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Her new kitchen toy from her cousins. She loves clock because it has a little ball that she can spin over and over and over...<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2581-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2581-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This is pretty much the only way she sleeps these days.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2612-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2612-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Trying out some squash in her mesh feeder.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2687.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2687.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />She has already learned that it's nice to share with your friends.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2701.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2701.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Daddy is such a funny guy!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2688.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2688.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Just happy to be Jordan!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2682.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2682.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Last but not least, we took Jordan to see Santa last Friday. She wanted to see who we had handed her to but we distracted her with lots of excited talking and smiling and we got a big smile back! They snapped about 6 pictures and then she looked back, got a long, good look at who was holding her and then began to cry. I'm glad we got a big smile out of her first!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=santa-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/santa-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /></div><br /><br />I have video of Jordan playing peekaboo and I am still trying to figure out how to upload it. I plan to post it as soon as I conquer technology.Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-87966699322650200252010-11-21T14:35:00.000-08:002010-11-21T20:20:14.609-08:007 Months - Sitting and Crawling and Waving, Oh My!Well look who is late again. I've intended to post for the past couple of weeks because Jordan is 7 and a half months now! I guess I've been a little busy with this girl who is learning all kinds of new things.<br /><br />First of all, she has learned to sit! This is quite the accomplishment because it allows her to enjoy her floor time so much more. She's still a little top heavy and losses her balance when she turns to follow us (or Daisy) across the room. I think she is really enjoying feeling like a big girl though. Sitting up means that now she gets to sit in high chairs and shopping carts. Fun!<br /><br />She is also working very hard to figure out this whole crawling business. She can now get up on all fours and rock but she rarely goes anywhere. She pushes with her toes, almost into a bear crawl, but gets stuck at that point. All that is left is for her to learn to coordinate her arms and legs. That doesn't mean she cannot already work her way around the floor though. Rolling can take you all kinds of places you want to (and shouldn't) be. The days of me being able to keep her contained are coming to an end and I see even busier days in my near future. All of this coming just in time for the holidays when decorations and presents will be out. I'm not sure we will have any presents under the tree this year. We will have to seek higher ground for them unless we want to be doing a lot of rewrapping.<br /><br />Jordan also has a new fascination as of recently. She will be reaching for a toy and all of sudden she is distracted by her fingers. She will just watch her hand as she bends her fingers over and over. Who wouldn't be excited about little fingers that can pull Mommy's hair, yank on Daddy's lip or grab Daisy's ears?<br /><br />And while we are talking about hands... My little girl is learning to wave and it's the cutest thing. With all of her finger watching lately, she has gotten the opening and closing of the fist down. Last night we were at Amber's (one of my best friends) wedding and I saw her waving her hand and then I realized it was in response to someone waving at her. Today Granny and Grandpa did lots of waving to her and she was watching very closely. Sometimes she was so interested that she forgot to wave back. I think she will be waving at everyone before we know it.<br /><br />I have so many pictures that I want to share. That is what happens when I wait too long to post. Prepare yourself for cuteness overload.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Nothing is safe if it's in Jordan's reach.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2235.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2235.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Our little snow leopard on Halloween.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2299-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2299-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Some Jordan and Daisy bonding time.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2310.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2310.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Eating is messy business! (Maybe that's why I'm in no hurry to change her liquid diet.)<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2324.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2324.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Outside on a Fall day.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2331.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2331.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />It's all about having something new to explore.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2342.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2342.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Just went for a walk on a chilly evening!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2361.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2361.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Yes, she is asleep with her feet crossed and propped up on her breathable bumpers. I still need to get a picture of her sleeping on her tummy because I love how she sticks her bottom in the air. I think it's truly adorable.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2365.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2365.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I think I can read her mind in this one. She is saying, "Mommy, you are going to be in big trouble when I figure out how to crawl."!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2396.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2396.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Here she is thinking "It's my turn to play with the camera!".<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2398.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2398.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />All dressed up for Amber's wedding.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2416.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2416.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />Our little family wearing our Sunday best.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2430.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2430.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />It was a late night for Jordan. We are on our way home and she is pooped!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2432.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2432.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-63971137952445767152010-10-21T19:51:00.000-07:002010-10-21T20:02:40.490-07:00Our Little Punkin'I just wanted to share the pictures from our trip to the pumpkin patch. Jordan was sleepy so she was a little cranky by the end (as you will soon see). I would like to go again to see if we can get a few more smiles!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Our one and only smile caught on camera. I'm glad Daddy was there to make her happy!<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2211.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2211.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Jordan and her big cousin Matti<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2217.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2217.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Hmm... what is this thing?<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2220.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2220.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />At least someone is happy in this picture (Keely)<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2226.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2226.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Why are we so mad at the pumpkin? Pumpkins are our friends!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_2229.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_2229.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">We will see if we get another chance to go. I cannot believe it's so close to Halloween already. I actually started my Christmas shopping today. Now that is going to be a fun holiday!<br /></div></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-58427016113567736152010-10-17T20:05:00.000-07:002010-10-31T18:52:10.563-07:006 Months - Tyler, Tastes and Toes!Shame on me! Jordan turned 6 months a week and a half ago and I haven't been here to post. I have so many pictures to share.<br /><br />We went to Tyler a couple of weekends ago to celebrate my mom's birthday as well as Keely's. Jordan was feeling the party spirit.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog1-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog1-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">While we were there Jordan had some bonding time with Grandpa...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog2-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog2-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />A nap on Granny...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog6-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog6-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />And a quiet conversation with her cousin Matti.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog5-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog5-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />She also spent some time playing with Daddy...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog3-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog3-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />And her first taste of avocado. (Which did not impress her.)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog4-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog4-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">We really enjoyed our time there, like we always do. I look forward to taking her back, hopefully sooner rather than later. We will take her for walks on the dam, swing in the backyard and eat all the s'mores our tummies can handle.<br /><br />In other food news, Jordan also had her first taste of sweet potato. It impressed her about as much as the avocado. So far this girl is picky but she comes by it honestly. Her momma may have had a bit of a reputation as a child. But who doesn't want their grilled cheese to be cut diagonally? It's the only way that makes sense. Am I right?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog8-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog8-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />She would rather eat her bib.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog9-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog9-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />We also introduced the sippy cup but for now it's just a toy. The ice makes a fun noise when you shake it and throw it!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog11-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog11-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Jordan also discovered a fun new toy that is great for holding and chewing on. I will give you a hint...<br /><br />It's cute, chubby and has five toes.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog7-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog7-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />It's so cute to watch her hold her foot while she kicks it back and forth. I caught her staring at her feet a few times in the last couple of weeks. It was only a matter of time before she decided to grab one and check it out.<br /><br />Last but not least, Jordan may finally be sleeping a little better. The last week we have seen some improvement and I'm praying that continues. I think Jordan is praying for the same thing in this picture.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog10-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog10-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><br />Watch for another post coming soon. Yesterday we went to a pumpkin patch with the family and we have some cute pictures of the cousins!<br /><br /></div></div></div></div><br /><br /></div></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-37199352326404845862010-09-27T10:27:00.000-07:002010-09-27T11:40:06.944-07:0025 Weeks (tomorrow) - Picture Poetry<div style="text-align: center;">Our little baby Jordan Mae,<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog9.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog9.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />She loves to eat<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />and chew<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog10.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog10.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />and play!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog6.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog6.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Her mommy loves her<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog12.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog12.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />and her daddy too.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog11.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog11.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />With her smiles so sweet<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog5.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog5.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />and her eyes so blue!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog7.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog7.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><br />Since my last post Jordan has gotten a new toy. Her fabulously fun exersaucer. It satisfies her need to be upright and entertained! She loves the buttons that talk and play music. She found those the minute we put her in it for the first time. Now she pushes them and gets to laugh while I do a silly dance for her. I love watching her explore all the toys and she always looks like such a big girl in it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Mommy, put down the camera and do that little dance!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />She also has started eating cereal at the recommendation of her GI doctor. Despite my hesitations, I finally gave in to the advice I've been ignoring for the past month. Well, it may not be helping her sleep any better, but she sure does love it! Sometimes she gets a little upset when she realizes that she has had the last bite. Even after I have scraped the bowl clean.<br /><br />Jason and I made sure to get video and pictures of the momentous occasion. I successfully multitasked by using one had for the first bite and the other armed with the camera. I already shared one of these above but here they are in order...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Here comes the first bite!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Ew, what is THAT?!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog3.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog3.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />She may not look satisfied but looks can be deceiving. She now gets so excited when she sees me preparing her cereal. I cannot feed her fast enough sometimes. Hmm... has someone been watching how daddy eats?<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog4.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog4.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And one more picture for fun.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Who are you and how did you get in my toy?<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Blog8.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Blog8.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div></div><br /><br /></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-58906466923192729052010-09-07T19:56:00.000-07:002010-09-11T19:46:13.832-07:0022 Weeks - Giggles and WigglesMy baby is five months. How can that be? All I can think is that we are almost half way to a year. It seems like we just had her but it also feels like she has been with us forever.<br /><br />I think we have the squirmiest, most wiggly baby ever. We are all starting to realize that this girl wants to move and she wants to move fast! Now the only thing holding her back is the fact that she doesn't know how to move quiet yet. Well, besides rolling to her tummy and squirming herself into the side of her crib anyway. The other day Jason was holding her and she was looking at me with this look on her face. All limbs were moving and if she could have willed herself to go then she would have flown to me! I imagine when she learns to crawl it will be like something straight out of a cartoon. Legs moving, a little smoke and the ZOOM! She's gone! Lord help us, we are going to need it!<br /><br />She is also giggling a little more each week. We had our first giggle a few of weeks ago but they were few and far between. I was holding her while washing her hair in the sink and something about that struck her as humorous. I got so excited only to find out she had giggled for her daddy just before that! (Which he had failed to mention to me I might add.) Now I usually get a giggle out of her when I am taking off her onesie. She cannot keep her hands out of her mouth so getting a onesie off can be a bit of a challenge and I think she has turned it into a game. She giggles as I try to maneuver her arms out while she makes every effort to continue chewing on them. It's a fun game that makes me giggle too.<br /><br />This last weekend we went to Tyler to visit my parents. Our second road trip was definitely a success. Jason and I finally got to go out for our anniversary that was a month ago. It was our first date since Jordan was born and we actually had a conversation. A long, uninterrupted conversation. Even though we thought of Jordan, we really enjoyed the fact that we both got to eat a hot meal at the same time. One of life's simple pleasures that we traded in for toothless grins and slobbery kisses. A pretty good trade off if you ask me.<br /><br /><br />Enough rambling. Pictures!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Rolling over is so much fun! Well, it's fun until you realize you want to be on your back again and you don't know how to do that. That's where I come in (again and again and again).<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1938.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1938.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Before we left for Tyler we had some visitors over. Jordan got to meet a few more members of Jason's family and that included her Great Grandma Millie!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1960.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1960.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />We went to Tyler for two nights and even though it was still pretty warm we spent a little time outside. I wanted Jordan to get to enjoy the country before we headed back to our concrete jungle.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Tyler.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Tyler.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Her newest outfit which I think makes her feel pretty.<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1942.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1942.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />It's never too early to enjoy a good book. This book was Jordan's souvenir that my parents brought back from Santa Fe. She loves to hold this book, play with the pages and... can you guess? Yep, chew on it. :)<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1913.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1913.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Spending some time on the reflux wedge. Hey, Jordan is chewing on something... surprise, surprise!<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1957.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1957.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"I don't know why they say you 'have a baby'. The baby has you."</span><br />~Gallagher<br /><br /></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-4217760353122547842010-08-18T09:16:00.000-07:002010-08-18T10:15:37.398-07:0019 Weeks - We Be Rollin'Jordan has never taken a particular liking to tummy time but I can hardly keep her on her back these days. She's been rolling on to her side and has been getting closer to rolling all the way from back to tummy for a while now. It's hard to roll over when you can't get your hands out of your mouth though.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1802.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1802.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />And of course the rolling means that diaper changes go something like this...<br /><br />Put her on her back and undo the onesie while Jordan is trying to roll to her side.<br />Grab for the wipes... roll her back<br />Reach for a new diaper.... roll her back<br />Put dirty diaper in wet back... roll her back<br />Go wash hands and come back to...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">a baby on her tummy!<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1863.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1863.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I took that picture yesterday (Tuesday). Monday she turned over for the first time but it took a lot of work! Grandpa and I were cheering her on from the sidelines and she finally got that arm out of the way. Of course as soon as she was on her tummy she fell back to her side but it still counts! Then yesterday I was about to change her and left the room just to grab a onesie. I was back in seconds but that's all it took for our little Roly Poly to get on to her tum. This proud mama scrambled to find the camera like she always does.<br /><br />Also, speaking of Grandpas and cameras. I captured this moment on Monday. Jordan was getting grumpy for a nap and my dad snuggled her just the right way to make her happy. Now if this picture doesn't melt your heart then I don't know what would.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1858.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1858.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Like I was saying before, Jordan is still spending a lot of time chewing on those chubby little hands. Whatever happens to get caught in her hands on the way to the mouth is collateral damage. Dresses have become a favorite thing to chew on and modesty is not an issue with this little lady!<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1773.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1773.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Now last time I brought up Jordan's adorable little baby neck. I'm not sure what it is about baby necks but they have to be one of the cutest things ever. Maybe it's the view of the back of those tiny ears? Maybe it's because the neck look so tiny compared to the disproportionately large heads it is supporting? Don't worry if you feel the need to kiss your computer screen in a second. It's a completely natural response.<br /><br /></div></div></div></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1840.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1840.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Maybe we should all carry around a picture of a baby neck in our pockets. The next time someone is rude you just take it out and turn their cold heart into a pile of mush. Feeling stressed? Immediate warm and fuzzies. Yes, I think I'm on to something here.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">That's all from baby land for now!<br /></div></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-43711514481604253052010-07-27T19:39:00.001-07:002010-08-07T21:13:34.744-07:0016 Weeks - Look Mom! Hands!(Technically this post is actually over a week late. I started this a while back but I'm just now getting a chance to finish it. I'm a little sleepy but I cannot abandon my blog!)<br /><br />So the reason I am so late to writing this is Jordan has decided that naps are the ultimate enemy. We spend a lot of time trying to convince her otherwise but she puts up a good fight. Today she got the better of us and stayed awake for 9 straight hours besides a 10 minute and 20 minute nap. That's. Not. Normal. There are rumors of some sort of sleep regression at four months so I'm crossing all my fingers and toes that this is a phase. A very very short phase.<br /><br />Jordan's newest talent is using her hands for chewing on, sucking on, and slobbering on (oh the slobber!). She also is using them to bat and reach for toys and occasionally Mommy's face. It's so great to see her exploring the world around her in a whole new way.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1704.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1704.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Hmm... What does this taste like?<br /></div><br />Jordan has also become my new shopping buddy. She has gotten to hang out in the Baby Bjorn on short trips to the grocery store, Ulta and Hobby Lobby. It's fun for her and fun for me. I get to show off my cutie and my hands are free to shop at the same time. Win, win!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1715.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1715.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />This thing is perfect for hand chewing.<br /></div><br />We also just acquired a Bumbo. I think it makes Jordan feel like a big girl because it helps her sit up all by herself! She is getting stronger all the time and I think she will be spending plenty of time in her squishy pink seat. Tummy time is also helping her strengthen that cute little neck. I need to take a picture of her neck come to think of it. Next time!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1752.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1752.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />A seat just for me!<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1721.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1721.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Baby workout.<br /></div><br />Other than that, Jordan is spending her time trying to develop some adorable baby "cankles". She has wrinkles where chub meets chub. I love it. Her cheeks have such a nice squish to them now, I can't help but kiss them all the time.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1733.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1733.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Love that smile. :)<br /><br /><br /></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-20687741656579870232010-07-19T20:12:00.000-07:002010-07-23T20:04:16.390-07:00The Great Cloth ExperimentI can thank my internet mommy friends for Jordan being in fluff. There were things I knew I wanted to do when I had a baby, but cloth diapering was not one of them. I'm happy to say that we've been mostly successful! Of course this girl has no problem trying to test the limits of a diaper. Disposables have failed that test numerous times and our cloth has definitely had a better success rate overall. In fact, most of the leaks we've had were due to mommy error.<br /><br />Why I like cloth:<br /><br />Let's face it, cloth is just cuter. Sure, Elmo and Cookie Monster are fun on TV but they can only do so much for a disposable diaper.<br /><br />I'm only a little "crunchy" so I will reluctantly admit here that saving Mother Earth was not my main motivator to do cloth. I do like the fact that I'm not putting chemicals next to my daughters skin all the time though. I can't help but feel like disposables are dirty now. I still use them at night but I cringe a little each time I grab for one.<br /><br />It gives me an excuse to shop. Shopping for fluff is definitely more fun than running to Walmart at 11:00pm because you forgot to stock up on diapers.<br /><br />I've learned the stain fighting (and bacteria fighting) power of the sun. It's truly amazing!<br /><br />I am saving money in the long run. Who doesn't want to save a buck or two?<br /><br />In the beginning it was all a little overwhelming. I had to ask a lot of questions and do a lot of reading before I really understood all the types of cloth diapers and the terminology that goes with it. It's like learning a new language consisting mostly of abbreviations. The first time I ventured onto DiaperSwappers I laughed at the ridiculousness of the posts. "BG OS 3.0, EUC, EBF, $15ppd". Um, yeah... (In case you are curious, it means "bumGenius one size in excellent used condition, exclusively breast fed baby, $15 including delivery".) These days I am feeling a lot more confident with my cloth knowledge but there is always something new to learn.<br /><br />In keeping with tradition of my blog, I of course have to include some pictures.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Small FuzziBunz, I love the light blue<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1595.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1595.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Lilac FuzziBunz<br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1561.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1561.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">A good mama, it has tiny unicorns and rainbows on it :)<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1636.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1636.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div></div><br />Another good mama<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1649.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1649.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />I don't have any pictures of her bumGenius but I think the FuzziBunz and Good Mamas win the cuteness contest anyway.</div></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-62142717910287795922010-07-13T07:10:00.000-07:002010-07-13T07:18:43.048-07:00Rockin Green Giveaway at The Bragging MommyStay tuned for a post about my cloth diapering experiment.<br /><br />In the meantime, if you cloth diaper then enter to win some Rockin' Green at The Bragging Mommy! Even if you don't use fluff then you can still use their detergent on any laundry. It's free of all the "nasties" that most detergents come loaded with. They come in some yummy scents as well as unscented. They also have specially formulated detergent for different types of water. Pretty cool stuff.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.thebraggingmommy.com/2010/07/09/rockin-green-cloth-diaper-detergent-review-and-giveaway/comment-page-2/#comment-35573"><i>Go Here</i></a> to enter! Good Luck!Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-39028899765442389682010-06-29T11:00:00.000-07:002010-07-01T14:38:07.107-07:0012 Weeks - Dimples, Bubbles and SnugglesAnother month has flown by.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Things I've learned and love about Jordan<br /></div><br />She makes all sorts of faces in her sleep. I often see her smile after a middle of the night feeding in the dim light of our bedroom.<br /><br />Sometimes she "sings" with me when I sing "I'm Just a Little Black Rain Cloud" to her.<br /><br />I love watching her discover the world around her. Like yesterday I carried her around the house, showing her and telling her about each room. She was so content as she was taking it all in.<br /><br />Her lips look just like her Daddy's.<br /><br />She can surprise me with a smile at the most unexpected times. Sometimes it's after fussing and she just decides to be happy instead. Or like the other morning when she pooped while I was nursing her and it immediately went everywhere. Jason and I went into scramble mode and it took the two of us, some creative de-clothing, and lots of wipes to get the situation under control. As soon as we laid her back down she gave us the biggest smile. Stinker.<br /><br />She has the most kissable knees.<br /><br />I enjoy it when she is in "snuggle bunny" mode. It makes it hard to put her down and a lot of the time I don't. Like my aunt said to me, we have kids so we could spoil them, right?<br /><br />She has the most incredible bubble making skills.<br /><br />Sometimes she will just stare at us with a smirk on her face. We will laugh and she will just hold that smirk as if she knows she is entertaining her parents.<br /><br />Her little voice is the sweetest sound.<br /><br />She is incredibly fascinated with the television. I will turn her away and she does her best impression of an owl trying to keep her eyes on it.<br /><br />Her eyes are big, round and beautifully blue.<br /><br />I love watching her try to suck on her hands. She prefers the right one but sometimes it won't come to her so she has to go to it.<br /><br />She loves to raise her eyebrows. She has so many expressions and her eyebrows play such a big part. Sometimes she only raises one which will get a laugh out of me every time.<br /><br />When she is almost full from nursing she will throw her arm over her face and be totally relaxed. It looks so dramatic.<br /><br />Her chin has a dimple.<br /><br />She makes a sort of whimper when she is really hungry and knows she is about to be fed. It's a little sad but very cute.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1467.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1467.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />That elusive right hand<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1488.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1488.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Chillin' with her Daddy in her cloth<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1421-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1421-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Squishy Face<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1531.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1531.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Beautiful Blues<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1376-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1376-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Eyebrows UP<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1522.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1522.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />There is that dimple!<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1443-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1443-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Caught one of those cute little smirks<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1491.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1491.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Bubbles!</div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-76917708682167332042010-06-03T19:23:00.000-07:002010-06-03T20:17:05.475-07:008 Weeks - New Sights and SoundsWe officially have smiles and coos!<br /><br />It would be hard to recap the last month. Hard because it's all happened in a sleep deprived blur. No, it's really not that bad. I had no idea my body would function so well on such little sleep though. I've spent the last month feeding, rocking, feeding, swaddling, feeding, holding, feeding and loving our baby girl. Needless to say she has done quite a bit of growing with all the eating going on. We have an appointment next week and I can't wait to see what she is weighing these days.<br /><br />We also started to come to realization that our baby had colic. The horrible episodes of crying (Jordan) caused lots of tears (mine). I realized why my parents still talk about me having colic as a baby. Twenty-nine years later and they still sigh when they hear the dreadful word. Well I owe my gratitude and sanity to Dr. Karp and his book (The Happiest Baby on the Block). Thanks to him we are experts at the 5 S's and they work like a charm. We spent about two weeks questioning what the magic trick was to helping her and now I know it's 5 tricks. I need to send that man a seriously large batch of brownies.<br /><br />Speaking of brownies...<br /><br />Out of desperation I also cut dairy and soy out of my diet. I daydream about big glasses of milk and macaroni and cheese. Of course, I did that before I took it out of my diet. What I wouldn't do for a big slice of chocolate cake right now. I'm not even sure if it was necessary but when your baby is crying for no apparent reason you will try whatever you can to help. For now cupcakes and ice cream will stay in my dreams and off my lips (and off my hips).<br /><br />I think Jordan has grown up overnight. I became sort of obsessed with trying to make her smile at me and I started to realize that I was just not that interesting! Well thankfully Jordan decided today that we should have a little "conversation". She told me she was happy through smiles, coos and that delightful sound they make when they suck air into their lungs that almost mimics a laugh. It was some of the most fun I've had with her yet. I even got one of those smiles on camera. Picture time.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1223.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1223.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />So what do I do with this thing?<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1225.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1225.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />My Daddy makes a good bed<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1255.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1255.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Like a baby Houdini breaking out of a swaddle<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Granny.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Granny.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br />Four generations<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Jordanssmile.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Jordanssmile.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />What do you know! Mommy is a funny lady!<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Jordanwithhat.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Jordanwithhat.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />A sample photo from our professional photo shoot. The photographer was at our house for over three hours and got Jordan to sleep so soundly. It was the most fun!<br /></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-92198291354098124362010-05-04T20:02:00.000-07:002010-05-05T21:15:38.092-07:00The Story of Jordan's BirthWhat better day to tell Jordan's birth story than on her expected delivery day! We already passed our cesarean day which would have been April 28th if she hadn't decided to make her own birthday.<br /><br />Happy one month sweet girl.<br /><br />Now the story of how she surprised us on that early April morning...<br /><br />I started feeling cramps in my back on April 6th around 2 in the morning. They came in waves but not necessarily with any pattern. I knew those could be contractions but they were definitely different than my preterm labor contractions. I hadn't slept a wink and continued to stay up and monitor my cramps which were becoming more painful but still irregular. Jason woke up to me sitting on the bed crying and started rubbing my back. I think I was crying mostly because I was confused and didn't know what to do. Some of the cramps were long and intense, some were short and not that bad. I told Jason to go back to sleep and that I was going to lay in the living room where I might be more comfortable. I didn't want to tell him that I was thinking about packing my hospital bag. He went back to sleep and I started gathering my things but a big part of me was in denial. I was in denial even when I was on my hands and knees breathing through the pain. At 4:15am I woke Jason up and told him we needed to go to the hospital. He asked if he could take a shower to wake himself up and I thought he was being sarcastic so I told him if he could shower and be ready in five minutes then he could. Next thing I knew he was turning on the water... Luckily I didn't feel panicked so my sense of humor was still in tact. Lucky for him I mean.<br /><br />We gave some extra pets to a sleepy Beagle and by 4:45am we were on the highway.<br /><br />We fully expected to be sent home and that is why I didn't pack Jordan's coming home outfit. I mostly took things that I knew I would want for an overnight stay and figured we may even be home before breakfast. We arrived, got a room, got me a gown and I was attached to the familiar monitors. I explained what was happening to the nurse and she said she would check me to see what was going on. Well when she told us that I was 3cm and 90% effaced I wasn't sure whose face was more full of shock, mine or Jason's. The doctor on call said to hydrate me to see if that would stop the contractions (which at this time I realized were definitely contractions and were getting pretty painful). I knew it wouldn't work since I had been drinking loads of water the whole pregnancy. We waited, things didn't change, so the doctor came in to do an ultrasound to check Jordan's position. I could have saved him the trouble because I knew she was breech but I'm sure they want to make sure before they slice you open and put your intestines on a table. I was happy that we had to wait long enough for a shift change and they were able to contact my OB. At around 8:45am they let us know that my doctor was on his way and we were having our c-section around 9am!<br /><br />This is when the term "whirlwind" comes to mind.<br /><br />Everything went very fast. All of a sudden the triage room was full of people from the surgical team, people taking my blood, the anesthesiologist coming in to explain how they would give me a combined epidural and before I knew it I was being wheeled to the OR. It took them five (yes FIVE) times to get the epidural in. A poke to numb, a poke with the epidural needle... all this while they were futilely telling me to relax. My OB actually made it in there while they were still trying and he took over comforting me. He put my head in his chest, rubbed my shoulders and his presence was such a huge relief. Finally they got it to work (my spine has a bit of a curve and that is what was causing the problem). I laid back, they put up the curtain and Jason was back by my side. At 9:45am we heard our baby crying and I was overcome with emotion, tears, and joy.<br /><br />My doctor brought her around the curtain for us to get the first glimpse of our beautiful baby girl. Then she was cleaned, weighed, swaddled and brought back to us for a brief closer look. I really got to see her face this time and I said something (cannot remember what now) but I swear she smiled. Well, no, she DID smile. Try and tell me different, I dare you. They brought her in close so I could kiss her right cheek. I remember saying how soft she was. Such a perfectly sweet little cheek. Then she was out the doors and Jason and I were left to try and absorb what had just happened. A few minutes later Jason was looking a little pale and took a trip out in the hallway for some air. A lot had happened in a very short amount of time.<br /><br />They had Jordan in the NICU for about 6 hours because of her low blood sugar but she graduated to the nursery on our floor by that first evening. That first day is very fuzzy. I was totally exhausted and could hardly stay awake to talk to all the visitors we had. We stayed at the hospital until Friday and she did VERY well for a 36 week baby. Their only concern was she lost 9% of her body weight and they don't want them losing any more than 10%. Her lowest weight was 4lbs 13.9oz and she's been gaining ever since!<br /><br />Now we have been enjoying her for a whole month. Jason and I have laughed at the way she coughs when she get angry. Sometimes she whimpers in her sleep. It's sort of sad and sweet at the same time. There have been times where she is so sleepy you can move her limbs without her taking any notice. My favorite times are when she is wide awake, looking around and discovering her world. We've already kissed her a million times.<br /><br />She is the most precious gift.<br /><br />This coming weekend is Mother's Day and I feel so honored to be able to celebrate the holiday as a mother for the first time. Me! A mother! She is the best answer to my prayers.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1084-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1084-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />A baby photo session<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1116.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1116.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Sleepy daddy and sleepy baby<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1121.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1121.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />One month on this day!<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1126.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1126.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />May 4, 2010<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1139.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1139.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"You are so precious to me, sweet as can be, baby of mine."</span><br />~Dumbo<br /></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-51867574453089877022010-04-21T10:18:00.000-07:002010-04-21T13:31:10.045-07:00Celebrating the Arrival of Jordan Mae!I fully intend to come back and tell her birth story in words, but for now it will be in pictures. Jordan Mae was born by cesarean section on April 6, 2010. She surprised us by coming four weeks early but I'm so happy to say she is healthy and was able to come home with us right away. My blog is a bit behind so I will start where I left off...<br /><br />First of all, we finished her room a few weeks ago. I loved the idea of the bird theme as soon as I saw the bedding and I'm really happy with how it turned out.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Jordansfinishedroom002.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Jordansfinishedroom002.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Jordansfinishedroom007.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Jordansfinishedroom007.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Jordansfinishedroom004.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Jordansfinishedroom004.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />My gift to Jason<br /><br />On Easter Sunday I decided to have my oldest sister take some pregnancy photos of Jason and I. It ended up being a cloudy and rainy day so we just took a few inside for the time being. I thought we would have time to get some more later but little did we know...<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=064kissingmodified.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/064kissingmodified.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Attempting to kiss but giggling instead<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=0049barebellymodified.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/0049barebellymodified.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />April 4, 2010<br />35 Weeks 5 Days<br /><br />And two days later... 36 Weeks exactly.<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_0920.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_0920.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Just born<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_0931.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_0931.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Swaddled and cozy<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_0934.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_0934.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Spent about 6 hours in the NICU for low blood sugar<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_0954.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_0954.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />A very proud daddy<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_0984-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_0984-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Cuddling with her mommy<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_0988-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_0988-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />All dressed and ready to leave the hospital<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_0996-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_0996-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />About to bring our baby girl home!<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1053.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1053.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Sleepy pose<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1048.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1048.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Such a pretty face<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1049.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1049.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Baby feet in daddy's hands<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1058.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1058.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />First bath<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=IMG_1010-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/IMG_1010-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Our little miracle at last<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:100%;" ><span style=";font-family:Verdana;" ><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: arial;font-family:verdana;" >"Before you were conceived, I wanted you.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: arial;font-family:verdana;" > Before you were born, I loved you.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: arial;font-family:verdana;" > Before you were here an hour, I would die for you.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: arial;font-family:verdana;" > That is the miracle of life."</span><br /> <b><i> </i></b><span style="font-family: arial;">~Maureen Hawkins</span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><br /><br /><br /></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-89790378392975077592010-04-01T15:03:00.001-07:002010-04-01T20:35:19.708-07:00Signs of SpringI don't know if there is a better time than Spring to be on the verge of having a baby. It just fits, doesn't it? The world is becoming colorful again after the gloomy winter months. Flowers are beginning to peek out from the ground (or those might be weeds if you are looking at our yard, but some weeds are pretty). The Bradford Pears on our street bloomed and have now left what appears to be white confetti on the street and sidewalks thanks to the kite flying weather this last week. The sun is out and the air is warm. But best of all I saw this happen in the last couple of days.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=AngelTree002.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/AngelTree002.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=AngelTree003.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/AngelTree003.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />That's our Angel Tree we planted last year on our due date. I waited and waited for it to bloom all summer and then the day before I had my IUI in August it finally did. I took it as a good omen. Once again our tree is brightening our backyard with signs of life, hope and beauty.Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-49367823901186185682010-03-30T12:57:00.000-07:002010-03-31T11:54:20.895-07:0035 Is the Magic NumberI am 35 weeks today AND I have 35 days left until my due date!<br /><br />My newest adventure is researching cloth diapering. "Naive first time mom syndrome"? Perhaps, but plenty of moms do it (and claim to love it) so I know it can be done. I am now becoming proficient in a whole new world of acronyms. First it was the trying to conceive acronyms (ttc, dpo, wto...) , then it became pregnancy acronyms (ftm, c/s, bf...), and now it's cloth diapering (os, BG, FB...). Cloth diapering has come a long way since the plain white cloths with pins. I won't bore you with all the details but let's just say that there are so many options that you will wonder if your college degree really means much about your level of intelligence. Thank goodness for all the helpful mamas on the internet. The initial investment is a little intimidating but the operative word there is "investment". We will start out with "sposies" and hopefully switch over to cloth after the first month or so (either part time or full time, we will see). I first mentioned the idea of cloth diapering to Jason back in the fall and there was a definite look of disgust on his face. I think he's slowly coming around to the idea and what man doesn't want to hear "It will save us money"? Especially if you know my Jason.<br /><br />I am happy to say I am done with my 17P injections! I was supposed to get one this week but my prescription was out and my Peri said it would be fine to skip this last one. My rear end is thankful since the last few shots seem to have angered it. For some reason I started getting bruises, knots and itching at the injection site (which is so attractive, let me tell you).<br /><br />I have an appointment on Friday with my OB and from here on out I will be seeing him on a weekly basis. I can't believe we are already to that point, it's really exciting! It still looks like a cesarean section is in our future but a healthy Guppy is all I'm worried about.<br /><br />One last thing. My positive note for the week.<br />I think her room is the happiest room in our house. I've dreamed about that room becoming a nursery for years, even stepping in there a time or two to dream about what it could look like. Now I get to walk in there and enjoy what we have prepared for her. Hopefully there will be picture post before the weeks is over.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=35Weeks001dated.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/35Weeks001dated.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">March 30, 2010<br /><br /><object height="285" width="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/yljQpsgMi4I&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xcc2550&color2=0xe87a9f&border=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/yljQpsgMi4I&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xcc2550&color2=0xe87a9f&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="285" width="340"></embed></object><br />If you watch the front and right part of my belly then you can see her hiccuping! Excuse my frantic breathing, I was trying to take shallow breaths. Also excuse Friends being on in the background.<br /></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-50134263809352564862010-03-23T11:49:00.000-07:002010-03-23T14:30:08.212-07:00The Beginnings of a Daddy34 Weeks today! That means we are down to 3 weeks until I'm term and 8 weeks to our due date. My doctor's guesstimate on her weight last Friday was about 5 pounds (just by feel, I think that's pretty cool and we will someday -soon- see how accurate he is). Guppy continues to get the hiccups at least twice a day and I enjoy watching my belly move around while she wiggles and squirms. The TV may be on but belly watching is a lot more fun.<br /><br />I'm at the point where it's easy to complain about the aches and pains of a third trimester pregnancy. As much as it hurts sometimes, I am not here to complain about <span style="font-style: italic;">any</span> of it. That would be a disservice to myself and anyone else who has prayed and prayed for a baby. I would rather list the reasons I am so happy and so blessed. I think each week until she is born I'm going to focus on something positive. On that note... My husband has taken such good care of me this whole pregnancy. When I was on modified bed rest he would fetch me water without me asking. I don't think I have vacuumed since I became pregnant and at this point he has completely taken over dish washing (and the occasional dog washing). Watching him put the crib together with my dad, putting together the bassinet, hanging new blinds in the nursery, etc., has been so fun to see. He's great at taking care of his wife and I know he will be great at taking care of his daughter. I love that man with all of my heart. Ok, if I don't stop then I'm going to have to fetch the kleenex.<br /><br />And now I'm happy to share my shower pictures with you. I don't know if anyone will ever realize what a special day this was for us!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0017.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0017.jpg" alt="shower 1" border="0" /></a><br />Yummy table of food. Just looking at this makes me hungry.<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0020.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0020.jpg" alt="shower 2" border="0" /></a><br />My sisters about to be subjected to embarrassment. I just got to watch. :)<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0048.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0048.jpg" alt="shower 4" border="0" /></a><br />Itty bitty bathing suit from my friend Amber. Adorable!<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0049.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0049.jpg" alt="shower 5" border="0" /></a><br />My friend Elizabeth who flew in all the way from Chicago! Thank you for the banana onesie, I love it and can't wait to see her in it.<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0050.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0050.jpg" alt="shower 6" border="0" /></a><br />My parents are starting our girl off right with a pink Texas Tech blanket. We will have to share that.<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0056.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0056.jpg" alt="shower 8" border="0" /></a><br />My dad and youngest niece made an appearance.<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0053.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0053.jpg" alt="shower 7" border="0" /></a><br />My mom and the wonderful hostess Cindy.<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=DSC_0036.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/DSC_0036.jpg" alt="shower 3" border="0" /></a><br />Soon to be Mommy and Daddy!<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=34Weeks001dated.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/34Weeks001dated.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />And one of the ever growing belly of course.<br />March 23, 2010<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"Any man can be a father. It takes someone special to be a dad."</span><br />~Unknown<br /></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-35513929535587252972010-03-16T15:29:00.000-07:002010-03-17T12:08:02.419-07:00Seventh Inning StretchFour weeks until I'm considered full term and seven weeks until her due date!<br /><br />I saw the Peri yesterday and have officially graduated from going back! FFN was negative (yay!), cervical length still good (yay!), amniotic fluid level is good (yay!). Guppy is guesstimated to be weighing in at around 4 and a half pounds. That is with a margin of error of a pound and a half though so it's not an exact science by any means. We will be attending our last birth class this Thursday and I have a regular OB appointment on Friday. Last Thursday we took a tour of the hospital which I personally found to be a lot of fun. There were three couples on the tour and the preggos were glued to the nursery window watching two newborns get dressed and swaddled by the nurses. Will there come a time when this will be less surreal?<br /><br />Last weekend was a big one for the nursery. Jason and my dad picked up the dresser which has allowed me to put away the clothes I've been washing and folding. The crib was put in place along with the bumper (turned cornice) over the window. The quilt is now up as well and my crafty mom found a place for the extra bumper by putting it over the closet doors. I'm still being stingy about posting pictures because I want it to be finished first. Just a few more touches here and there and it will be complete.<br /><br />I've posted the 3D pictures that were given to me at my appointment. 3D sonograms are harder to do at this point since the baby is running out of room and it's hard to get a good view. The sonographer tried her best to get a good picture but the umbilical cord distorted the left side of her face a bit. I still think they are cute enough to share. :)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=33Weeks006dated.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/33Weeks006dated.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />March 16, 2010<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=33Weeks004modified-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/33Weeks004modified-1.jpg" alt="blog size" border="0" /></a><br />Silhouette of a baby belly<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Image3.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Image3.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />32 Weeks and 6 Days (March 15, 2010)<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=Image4.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/Image4.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />Her cheeks have definitely started to fill out!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;">A baby changes your dinner party conversation from politics to poops. <br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">~ Maurice Johnston</div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1820112343520187129.post-45693032326132857202010-03-09T15:15:00.000-08:002010-03-09T16:23:28.926-08:00Honey, Can You Shave My Legs?Tap... tap... tap...<br /><br />That's what it feels like when she gets the hiccups. She has been getting the hiccups about twice a day for the last week or more and I think it's so cute to imagine her in there, hiccuping away. She's continues to give me some good kicks every now and then and sometimes it feels like she is just rolling around. I talk to her and tell her that she can kick me as much as she wants.<br /><br />Today I am 32 weeks with 56 days remaining until her due date. There is a growing list of things that I will not being doing for the next 56 (give or take a few) days.<br /><br />Grocery shopping - It seems as though the grocery store puts my uterus in a bad mood. I can't say that I enjoy grocery shopping that much anyway, so I guess my uterus and I have that in common. Let me just say that Jason has been a real trooper in taking over for me.<br /><br />Shave my legs - Take a breath, lean over and try to reach where I can... Doesn't work very well. I warned Jason that he may need to give me a hand since I will be wearing a dress this Friday to attend a wedding. I was hoping if I gave him fair warning then he would be able to get used to the idea by the time I need him to step in. I'll let you know how that goes.<br /><br />Pick something up off the floor with any sort of grace - I need some of those grabber things with the little tongs on the end. I'm not sure if it's harder to get down there or get back up. And BONUS, pregnancy makes you clumsy! Ah the funny little ironies of life. (By the way, I didn't believe this pregnancy rumor until I dropped my hair dryer, knocked over my water bottle and tripped, all with in about 10 minutes. I was about to wave the white flag and go back to bed out of fear that I might hurt myself.)<br /><br />I would say sleep for more than 2 hours straight but I think we all know that a good nights sleep is not anywhere in my near future.<br /><br />Here are the bird pictures I made that match her bedding. I meant to post a picture of them a long time ago but better late than never. I still plan on posting a picture of my glider rocker but I am waiting until it is in it's permanent spot. I love love love my new glider.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=002-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/002-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=001.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/001.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=32Weeks005dated.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/32Weeks005dated.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />March 9, 2010<br /><br /><a href="http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/?action=view&current=32Weeks012.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e163/Kayla1981/32Weeks012.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />The Belly (and I)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous - how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! I can't even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me!"</span><br />~Psalm 139:13-18<br /></div>Kaylahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18156756524696393338noreply@blogger.com3