Since I do milestone updates for the kids, perhaps I deserve a blog dedicated to my birthday? My birthday was on friday and David was able to get the whole weekend off! I took Friday off and we decided to go on an adventure. I have lived in Austin my whole life and never been out to Hamilton Pool. Since it had just rained for days on end, the water quality was not safe enough for swimming but we thought it still sounded fun to go for a hike.
After dropping the kids off, we headed out to the Hill Country. The water fall and main pool is just about a half mile hike (downward.) I got a call from my office and lost signal mid-conversation because we had hiked so for down. Basically the pool area was a cave who's top had fallen in- it is pretty cool! What's not cool? Freaking snakes.
On our hike down to the pool all of a sudden David sticks his arm out in front of me and says "STOP!" He didn't yell but he was serious and I knew there was some danger. But I didn't hear or see anything. I kept asking him "WHAT? WHAT?" and he kept not answering me and was looking around. He finally just moved me and THEN poined out a snake. I think we both instictively tried to see if it was rattling. The snake was looking right at us and had his mouth open- pretty frightening. He was just a couple of feet from us but since it was frozen David ushered me along and said "C'mon, let's go." Luckily, the snake stayed still and let us go past.
I was freaked out and my eyes were now GLUED to the trail. Not 10' away a baby snaked slithered right in front me accross the trail. Awesome. Then we got to the beautiful pool and water fall. All of a sudden it was a little cooler and there was lots to look at. There were little pools, lots of greenery and cool rock formations. We walked behind the falls (all the while watching for snakes). When we came out it would appear that the same freaking snake had followed us down to the pool because it was yet again in the middle of the path. It wasn't moving but there was no other way to get past it. Instinctively David reached for a large stick (in case it became agressive) but what he thought was stick was another freaking snake! Now we were really screwed- two venomous snakes in a 10' radius and there was no way out. I kept my eye on snake #2 while David watched the one in the path. This went on for a couple of minutes and finally snake #1 slithered off. We quickly took the opportunity to walk past!
On our way out we past a couple with their photographer- probably taking engagement pictures. They were all dressed up and in sandals so we warned them and then a girl (obviously a model) who was in a bikini and flip flops and with her photographer. I guess they didn't get the memo to wear sturdy footwear. We stopped at the guard post and inquired as to the kind of snakes that are generally in the park. He said mainly moccasins (the entire trail is on a stream). Since they are agressive snakes he kept saying things like, "WOW!" and "YOU ARE SO LUCKY." Geez.
Then we drove into Bee Cave for a snack and shopping. We went to James Avery and Bath and Body Works. When we got back into Austin we got my car washed, and then went to Things Celtic. We had a whole list of things to do sans kids ;) Things Celtic was awesome. David and I have some rings picked out there. Before picking up Emma from school we went to Cavenders and David and I picked out new boots. That night we were headed to Walburg for dinner with my parents and friends! It was so much fun!
Saturday morning we went to breakfast and then had a family birthday party. That afternoon we recharged before our friend Mark's birthday party. We spent the evening at their house enjoying awesome food and beverages and watched some UT football ;)
Sunday I slept in and David and Cody fell back asleep in the recliner so we missed church. We had brunch with my parents at Trudy's and I had a three hour nap this afternoon while Daddy and Cody spent some quality time together (Emma spent this afternoon at my parent's house and took a nap w/Grammy).
I had an amazing weekend! It was very busy but I love our life! I LOVE David and appreciate so much him making this the best birthday! I'm just so blessed. I have everything I've ever wanted. A healthy daughter and healthy son. A husband who I love more than anything. I'm working hard to give back as much as I can and share my blessings. Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Sunday, September 12, 2010
CureSearch Walk 2010
The CureSearch walk was a great success. As of walk-day more than $42,000 was raised and my total will be about $500. Just as I expected, it was emotional to think about the reason we were all there. During the opening ceremony after the Emcee, Paul Brown from News8, and dignitaries such as Lloyd Doggett were introduced, the families who had lost a child to cancer were asked to come up to the stage. One representative from each family was given a white balloon. Some Mommy's attached little notes and kissed the balloon before they were all simultaneously released. (I'm getting goosebumps just recalling it all.) Then all of the children in attendance that are currently in treatment for cancer were asked to come up to the stage. They each received medals to wear and introduced themselves. I was dumbfounded at how many were there. Cancer sucks and these kids (and their families) deserve at 100% cure rate.
I am not a Doctor or a scientist. But I am a decent event planner and am so glad that God gave me the opportunity to learn about children's cancer and to help make a difference. I was glad to finally meet the regional director of CureSearch who I had been working w/via e-mail and telephone in preparation for the walk. I wasn't at last year's first annual CureSearch Austin walk, but evidently this year there were many, many more participants and we raised double! I have so many ideas for next year. I want to have a much bigger walk team and raise more money! Though emotional, it really was a great morning. A group from UT "SMILE" was there with arts and crafts projects for kids, and there was a face-painter and clown. A local DJ kept things moving and Amy's Ice Cream had some sweet treats for us to cool down with after the walk. A local bakery, "A Trip to Bountiful" provided yummy muffins and pastries. The owner lost their child to cancer. Starbucks coffee donated coffee and water. Entertainment, food and drink and a GREAT cause- all you could need!
The walk was 2.5miles. I can't remember the last time I willingly walked that far. But we did it. The whole thing. Emma was amazing and Cody was along for the ride in his stroller. Daddy did a great job pushing such a heavy load! When Emma and I would get tired we would run. Along the way there was a sprinkler system going and I let her run through it. When we were done Emma laid flat on the pavement- she was tired! My parents, brother, sister-in-law and nephew were all there to support us! Our friend Vance and his buddy Jason joined our team and it was so nice to have them there with us!
After a brief closing ceremony where they awarded the top fundraisers, my family and I headed over to our favorite restaurant in Bee Cave, Zingers, for some yummy lunch! I am so glad that we did this. I am thankful to all who were supportive, donated, or just listened to me about CureSearch. It sucked to be told no. For emails and messages to go unanswered. Because to me, now that I know what I do about children's cancer and the extreme misuse of federal funding for cancer research (pediatric cancer gets less than 1%) I can't imagine not jumping in and getting involved or donating what you can. But, it's not for everyone. Not everyone will listen either. And that's ok. I love my family for getting behind me, or rather, standing w/me. Thanks hun!
September is childhood cancer awareness month so just because the walk is over, doesn't mean the fight is over. I have an amazing friend Amanda Harbin who is working on her non-profit group, called Battle4aCure. Amanda posts daily updates about local kiddos fighting cancer. For me it is a daily reminder of my many blessings, it keeps me grounded, humble and it's an amazing way to let prayer work. Amanda organizes many community events, fundraisers and is an amazing advocate for these kiddos and childhood cancer. Be friends with Battle4aCure on Facebook- Amanda is a sweetheart and would love to have you! For more info, check out her webiste: Battle4aCure.com
I am not a Doctor or a scientist. But I am a decent event planner and am so glad that God gave me the opportunity to learn about children's cancer and to help make a difference. I was glad to finally meet the regional director of CureSearch who I had been working w/via e-mail and telephone in preparation for the walk. I wasn't at last year's first annual CureSearch Austin walk, but evidently this year there were many, many more participants and we raised double! I have so many ideas for next year. I want to have a much bigger walk team and raise more money! Though emotional, it really was a great morning. A group from UT "SMILE" was there with arts and crafts projects for kids, and there was a face-painter and clown. A local DJ kept things moving and Amy's Ice Cream had some sweet treats for us to cool down with after the walk. A local bakery, "A Trip to Bountiful" provided yummy muffins and pastries. The owner lost their child to cancer. Starbucks coffee donated coffee and water. Entertainment, food and drink and a GREAT cause- all you could need!
The walk was 2.5miles. I can't remember the last time I willingly walked that far. But we did it. The whole thing. Emma was amazing and Cody was along for the ride in his stroller. Daddy did a great job pushing such a heavy load! When Emma and I would get tired we would run. Along the way there was a sprinkler system going and I let her run through it. When we were done Emma laid flat on the pavement- she was tired! My parents, brother, sister-in-law and nephew were all there to support us! Our friend Vance and his buddy Jason joined our team and it was so nice to have them there with us!
After a brief closing ceremony where they awarded the top fundraisers, my family and I headed over to our favorite restaurant in Bee Cave, Zingers, for some yummy lunch! I am so glad that we did this. I am thankful to all who were supportive, donated, or just listened to me about CureSearch. It sucked to be told no. For emails and messages to go unanswered. Because to me, now that I know what I do about children's cancer and the extreme misuse of federal funding for cancer research (pediatric cancer gets less than 1%) I can't imagine not jumping in and getting involved or donating what you can. But, it's not for everyone. Not everyone will listen either. And that's ok. I love my family for getting behind me, or rather, standing w/me. Thanks hun!
September is childhood cancer awareness month so just because the walk is over, doesn't mean the fight is over. I have an amazing friend Amanda Harbin who is working on her non-profit group, called Battle4aCure. Amanda posts daily updates about local kiddos fighting cancer. For me it is a daily reminder of my many blessings, it keeps me grounded, humble and it's an amazing way to let prayer work. Amanda organizes many community events, fundraisers and is an amazing advocate for these kiddos and childhood cancer. Be friends with Battle4aCure on Facebook- Amanda is a sweetheart and would love to have you! For more info, check out her webiste: Battle4aCure.com
Thursday, September 2, 2010
A New Chapter
If you friends with me on Facebook, you've probably noticed my posts about CureSearch. For me it started in late February when I started following the story of Layla Grace. Layla was a happy, healthy, BEAUTIFUL 15 month old little girl from the Houston area. At 16 months old her family found out that she had stage 4 Neuroblastoma. She had a massive tumor in her abdomen which extended from above her left kidney, around her side, over her belly and wrapped around her aorta. In addition, the cancer was in her bone marrow.
In a matter of a week and a half Layla went from normal happy and healthy to lethargic, and in pain. About 10 months later Layla went to play with the angels on March 9th, 2010.
Baby Layla
Layla, shortly after diagnosis
2 years old, fighting for her life, this was a good day
Layla's story changed my life. I have everything I have always wanted. A husband who loves me and I cannot imagine living without and two amazing, beautiful children. But the thought that all of that could change because of an illness that isn't getting the attention, funding and research that it NEEDS is something I cannot stand idly by and let it go unnoticed.
I knew I wanted to help. But how? What can I do? While I was following Layla's story, I met some amazing people. I heard about a walk coming up in Austin. Better yet- it's actually in Bee Cave! I thought, "Aha!" this was a sign. David knows every business owner in Bee Cave and at the Galleria Mall. "I can help!" CureSearch works with the Children's Oncology Group and funds Dell Children's hospital here in Austin. And that was that, I'm all in.
At first I felt badly about constantly posting on Facebook and sending emails to friends and family asking them to get involved. But I'm not sorry. Nothing is going to change unless people are made aware. I had no idea that children's cancer has to be studied completely differently than adult forms of cancer. I had no idea that federal funding for pediatric cancer is a joke. I had no idea that I could wake up one morning and I could all of a sudden be the mother of a cancer patient. Cancer took my paw paw away from me when I was 10 years old; he was my best friend. Cancer took my husband's father away and he never got to meet his grandson. Cancer shook my family when my mother had to have her thyroid removed. I have a sinking feeling that my family is not through with our battle against cancer. Even if we don't. No parent should have to hold their child while the light in their eyes fades away.
I can't do it. But what I can do is donate my time, money and passion to help raise awareness and funds to FIND A CURE. Now I "follow" many families who have a little fighter. Unfortunately, it seems like at least one a week loses their battle and we get another update from a broken mother or father.
So if you've noticed the change in me, you're not alone. I have changed. And I will never forget Layla Grace.
For more info. on Layla's story: www.laylagrace.org
To learn more about CureSearch: www.curesearch.com and www.curesearchwalk.org
Monday, August 30, 2010
Cody: 7 months
Where to start? I feel like Cody has just taken off! Literally, he has. Cody started by sitting up. Within a couple of days he went from a one-handed push-up position to completely sitting himself up. A couple of days later he was pulling up on the couch, recliner, your knees, anything he could get a hold of! That same week he took off crawling. Cody pulls up and takes steps towards whatever he is holding on to. He attempts to let go but hasn't stood unassisted yet. He reaches for anything and everything he can get in to- cords, shoe laces, anything that lights up, etc. I had forgotten how to baby-proof!
He is amazing and so much fun. He is always smiling and has the best laugh! He is ticklish. Cody is taking about an 8 oz bottle 4-5 times a day and has at least two meals and a snack. He is also self feeding with puffs! Now I can put him in his highchair with a snack and get our dinner started while he feeds himself- fun times ;) He eats stage 1 and 2 baby food as well as trying some of the things that we eat. He had some yogurt, macaroni, mashed potatoes and a couple of bites of pancake. He loves to hold his sippy cup and seems so refreshed after some watered-down apple juice!
We had to make a family trip to the outlet malls because Cody has outgrown 95% of his clothes. We bought him size 12-18 months! Big boy! Emma and Cody both got new shoes at the Stride Rite store- Sissy is a size 1.5! What are we feeding these kids?
Sleep. What's that? Cody has been giving us a little bit of trouble for about 2-3 weeks now. He will go to bed and sleep for exactly one hour and then wake up. He doesn't want Mommy, he doesn't need a diaper change- he wants Daddy. He smiles and reaches for Daddy. David doesn't get home until about 7 so he only has about an hour (if that) with Cody before he falls asleep. Sometimes Cody fights harder than other nights, but eventually he goes back to bed. It could be worse, a lot worse.
Emma is still in love with her brother. She plays, talks and sings to him. Last Saturday she decided to go in to his room when she heard him waking up. She turned the light on and proceeded to put on a dance routine for him. David and I woke up to them giggling at each other. How sweet is that? Emma is literally Cody's favorite toy. Cody bangs his arm down, waves "hi" and "pats" things. If you pat your hand (on your knee for example) twice, he pats his hand twice.
I know I'm forgetting things so plan on this entry being edited.
He is amazing and so much fun. He is always smiling and has the best laugh! He is ticklish. Cody is taking about an 8 oz bottle 4-5 times a day and has at least two meals and a snack. He is also self feeding with puffs! Now I can put him in his highchair with a snack and get our dinner started while he feeds himself- fun times ;) He eats stage 1 and 2 baby food as well as trying some of the things that we eat. He had some yogurt, macaroni, mashed potatoes and a couple of bites of pancake. He loves to hold his sippy cup and seems so refreshed after some watered-down apple juice!
We had to make a family trip to the outlet malls because Cody has outgrown 95% of his clothes. We bought him size 12-18 months! Big boy! Emma and Cody both got new shoes at the Stride Rite store- Sissy is a size 1.5! What are we feeding these kids?
Sleep. What's that? Cody has been giving us a little bit of trouble for about 2-3 weeks now. He will go to bed and sleep for exactly one hour and then wake up. He doesn't want Mommy, he doesn't need a diaper change- he wants Daddy. He smiles and reaches for Daddy. David doesn't get home until about 7 so he only has about an hour (if that) with Cody before he falls asleep. Sometimes Cody fights harder than other nights, but eventually he goes back to bed. It could be worse, a lot worse.
Emma is still in love with her brother. She plays, talks and sings to him. Last Saturday she decided to go in to his room when she heard him waking up. She turned the light on and proceeded to put on a dance routine for him. David and I woke up to them giggling at each other. How sweet is that? Emma is literally Cody's favorite toy. Cody bangs his arm down, waves "hi" and "pats" things. If you pat your hand (on your knee for example) twice, he pats his hand twice.
I know I'm forgetting things so plan on this entry being edited.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Kindergarten!
On Wednesday, August 18th Emma had her first day of "Big Girl School" as she likes to call it. No tears for any of us! I kept wondering how I would feel because we're supposed to cry, right? They had a "Boo Hoo/Yahoo!" breakfast which I thought was a cute idea. I just know that this is where she is supposed to be right now and it feels so natural for all of us.
The morning routine is a little crazy, but I wouldn't know it any other way. David wasn't able to come to school with us because the Dept. sent him to a training class in East Austin. First stop was Cody's daycare which starts their day at 7:30. I was there at 7:31 because I only have 20 minutes to get him settled and drive Emma to school by 7:50. Emma's classroom seems large and is so adorable. They sit at tables of four (although there are only 3 at Emma's). She is sitting with Hannah and next to Colby- Mrs. Summers' grandson. Emma has lots of buddies in her class that she knew from preschool and her closest girlfriends are in the other two Kindergarten classes- probably a good thing since she inherited her Mama's gift of gab. At first I thought there were only 11 kids in her class, but each morning I count differently; I think there may be 13. LOVE THAT TEACHER-STUDENT RATIO!
Emma's weekly schedule includes Spanish, music, science, PE, cooking and lot's more. This week they have been working on B's. What happened to A? I'm not sure. I'm so proud of her. All of a sudden she seems more independent. I'm surprised she let me walk her into the classroom this morning! One of Emma's favorite teachers has been the science enrichment teacher who teaches them all about animals, bugs, plants etc. so Emma may join her gardening club! During the last week of school Emma brought home tons of plants and her little Oak Tree has been thriving!
Redeemer will definitely keep us busy. Leading up to the first day of school we had parent/teacher conferences, popcicles on the playground and new parent orientation. Soon we will have back to school night, school pictures and PTL meetings. At least I was prepared from previous experience.
It's so bizarre to have a baby and a 5 year old and realize how fast she has grown, our family has grown and all the adventures that lie ahead!
The morning routine is a little crazy, but I wouldn't know it any other way. David wasn't able to come to school with us because the Dept. sent him to a training class in East Austin. First stop was Cody's daycare which starts their day at 7:30. I was there at 7:31 because I only have 20 minutes to get him settled and drive Emma to school by 7:50. Emma's classroom seems large and is so adorable. They sit at tables of four (although there are only 3 at Emma's). She is sitting with Hannah and next to Colby- Mrs. Summers' grandson. Emma has lots of buddies in her class that she knew from preschool and her closest girlfriends are in the other two Kindergarten classes- probably a good thing since she inherited her Mama's gift of gab. At first I thought there were only 11 kids in her class, but each morning I count differently; I think there may be 13. LOVE THAT TEACHER-STUDENT RATIO!
Emma's weekly schedule includes Spanish, music, science, PE, cooking and lot's more. This week they have been working on B's. What happened to A? I'm not sure. I'm so proud of her. All of a sudden she seems more independent. I'm surprised she let me walk her into the classroom this morning! One of Emma's favorite teachers has been the science enrichment teacher who teaches them all about animals, bugs, plants etc. so Emma may join her gardening club! During the last week of school Emma brought home tons of plants and her little Oak Tree has been thriving!
Redeemer will definitely keep us busy. Leading up to the first day of school we had parent/teacher conferences, popcicles on the playground and new parent orientation. Soon we will have back to school night, school pictures and PTL meetings. At least I was prepared from previous experience.
It's so bizarre to have a baby and a 5 year old and realize how fast she has grown, our family has grown and all the adventures that lie ahead!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Father and Son, Baptized Together
Sunday, August 15th 2010 is a day I will never forget. When I met David I was surprised to hear that he had never been baptized. I not-so-secretly wanted him to be baptized before we were married, but in retrospect I know it wasn't the "right" time.
While I was pregnant I got the idea that Cody and David could be baptized together and David loved that idea. We started looking at dates and kept hitting road blocks. We had planned to be out of town on the 14th and 15th in Dennison for a concert with Roger Creager and Aaron Watson, but when we heard my BFF was having her engagement party that weekend, we canceled our plans so that we could be in town and decided it would be a great time to have the baptism before school started.
My brother, sister-in-law and nephew came in from Plano, and my grandfather and Aunt Cathy from Houston as well as my Aunt Lisa, Uncle David, and cousin Lily from Elgin and my Granny and Mom and Dad. Since David's family lives out of town (mostly out of state) and we only planned the baptism in a couple of weeks, they were not able to travel and be there; but we definitely felt their spirits with us and know they are thrilled for David and I. It was very special to do this at my home church, Gethsemane Lutheran. Pastor Gronberg baptized my brother and I, confirmed me, baptized Emma and married David and I. This congregation has watched me grow and it was very special to share this day there. Even though we will be moving our membership to Redeemer to support Emma and get involved as a family, Gethsemane will always be my "home church" and extremely important to my family and I.
When we met with Pastor to talk about this day, one of the things he asked us was who would be baptized first. I blurted out "DAVID!" I laughed by saying he is running out of time. :) I'm so proud of him. He amazes me all the time. He works so hard, is so honest and wears his heart on his sleeve. I love our conversations about God working in our lives. We weren't planning on getting pregnant when we did, but it was His plan for us. We weren't planning on Emma going to Redeemer this year, but He worked it out. We feel so blessed and know His presence and I am proud that David wants to raise our children in this ancient tradition.
The service was really beautiful. The family sat in the first 3-4 pews and early on we were called up. The family gathered around the baptismal font and the children of the congregation were called up to watch as well. My parents and David's sister Cristy are David and Cody's godparents or "sponsors" so my Mom lit candles and my Dad held cross necklaces during the baptism. When it was time, David passed Cody over to me and pastor had him lean over while he prayed over David. He then poured water over his forehead, made the sign of the cross, held his face and he was baptized! David was teary-eyed and it was all I could do to not cry! Pastor Gronberg had my Dad place one of the cross necklaces around David's neck and then gave him a big hug. Then it was Cody's turn.
I handed Cody back to David who leaned him backwards near the baptismal font and pastor did the same thing with him. Once again my father placed the remaining necklace on Cody. Ever since I was a little girl I dreamed of the day that my children would be baptized. My Pastor does something very special after a baptism. He takes the baby and presents them to the congregation. He holds them above his head and walks down the center aisle. Gethsemane has the most beautiful stained glass sanctuary that I've ever seen and I love the look on the faces of children as they catch sight of the beautiful colors as light shines through them. Cody did amazing- my sweet, sweet baby. This day was ever more special because David was side-by-side our son.
The rest of the service was beautiful. I requested that we sing "I was there to hear your borning cry" just like the day that Emma was baptized. Afterwards the family joined us for lunch at Red Lobster and opened a few gifts. Thanks to all who came or were thinking about us and always praying for us! We are so blessed!
While I was pregnant I got the idea that Cody and David could be baptized together and David loved that idea. We started looking at dates and kept hitting road blocks. We had planned to be out of town on the 14th and 15th in Dennison for a concert with Roger Creager and Aaron Watson, but when we heard my BFF was having her engagement party that weekend, we canceled our plans so that we could be in town and decided it would be a great time to have the baptism before school started.
My brother, sister-in-law and nephew came in from Plano, and my grandfather and Aunt Cathy from Houston as well as my Aunt Lisa, Uncle David, and cousin Lily from Elgin and my Granny and Mom and Dad. Since David's family lives out of town (mostly out of state) and we only planned the baptism in a couple of weeks, they were not able to travel and be there; but we definitely felt their spirits with us and know they are thrilled for David and I. It was very special to do this at my home church, Gethsemane Lutheran. Pastor Gronberg baptized my brother and I, confirmed me, baptized Emma and married David and I. This congregation has watched me grow and it was very special to share this day there. Even though we will be moving our membership to Redeemer to support Emma and get involved as a family, Gethsemane will always be my "home church" and extremely important to my family and I.
When we met with Pastor to talk about this day, one of the things he asked us was who would be baptized first. I blurted out "DAVID!" I laughed by saying he is running out of time. :) I'm so proud of him. He amazes me all the time. He works so hard, is so honest and wears his heart on his sleeve. I love our conversations about God working in our lives. We weren't planning on getting pregnant when we did, but it was His plan for us. We weren't planning on Emma going to Redeemer this year, but He worked it out. We feel so blessed and know His presence and I am proud that David wants to raise our children in this ancient tradition.
The service was really beautiful. The family sat in the first 3-4 pews and early on we were called up. The family gathered around the baptismal font and the children of the congregation were called up to watch as well. My parents and David's sister Cristy are David and Cody's godparents or "sponsors" so my Mom lit candles and my Dad held cross necklaces during the baptism. When it was time, David passed Cody over to me and pastor had him lean over while he prayed over David. He then poured water over his forehead, made the sign of the cross, held his face and he was baptized! David was teary-eyed and it was all I could do to not cry! Pastor Gronberg had my Dad place one of the cross necklaces around David's neck and then gave him a big hug. Then it was Cody's turn.
I handed Cody back to David who leaned him backwards near the baptismal font and pastor did the same thing with him. Once again my father placed the remaining necklace on Cody. Ever since I was a little girl I dreamed of the day that my children would be baptized. My Pastor does something very special after a baptism. He takes the baby and presents them to the congregation. He holds them above his head and walks down the center aisle. Gethsemane has the most beautiful stained glass sanctuary that I've ever seen and I love the look on the faces of children as they catch sight of the beautiful colors as light shines through them. Cody did amazing- my sweet, sweet baby. This day was ever more special because David was side-by-side our son.
The rest of the service was beautiful. I requested that we sing "I was there to hear your borning cry" just like the day that Emma was baptized. Afterwards the family joined us for lunch at Red Lobster and opened a few gifts. Thanks to all who came or were thinking about us and always praying for us! We are so blessed!
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Date Night
Mommy and Daddy have spent a lot of time working and taking care of Cody and Emma and as often as possible, we sneak out for some time alone. We are so lucky to have Grammy and Paw Paw close by and willing to watch the kiddos so that we are able to go out. Generally we just grab a movie or go out for dinner but this time would be a little different.
David and I went to Luckenbach/Fredericksburg to see Roger Creager with some of our friends last September when I was about 16weeks pregnant. We were celebrating Tom's birthday and had a great weekend! Before that I cannot remember the last concert we went to. This is significant to me because that's how David and I met (honky tonkin' if you will) and something we love to do together.
It is an amazing thing to live in central Texas. Especially if you like to listen to great live music, dance, drink beer and even enjoy the great outdoors! One of the great land marks that David and I neither one had been to was Nutty Brown right here in Austin! It was a beautiful night; there was a most excellent breeze and seriously, it was one of the best concerts I've been to. I know it sounds we don't go to many, and we haven't in the last two years, but we used to! Anyway, the margaritas and beer were flowing and Bruce Robison and RRB rocked it. I did not particularly care for the smoking, but Matt "politely" suggested to this girl in front of us that if she blew out in our faces one more time, that she would not like his response. :) Then two guys dropped their (How you say...?) "bud" in front of David. Probably not smart to dump your pot in front of two cops, but luckily we were all there to have a good time. And my hubby and I were having a great time. I loved feeling so relaxed and knowing that David was too. It was so refreshing to hang out with people who like you for you and don't bring drama.
Since we were going to be out a little later than usual, and my parents were babysitting my nephew Drew, we asked our friend Natalie if the kids could hang out with she and her son. So Saturday evening after we dropped them off, David and I met a few friends at Chuy's (mmm!) and then headed to NB. It was so much fun and I can't wait to do it again!
David and I went to Luckenbach/Fredericksburg to see Roger Creager with some of our friends last September when I was about 16weeks pregnant. We were celebrating Tom's birthday and had a great weekend! Before that I cannot remember the last concert we went to. This is significant to me because that's how David and I met (honky tonkin' if you will) and something we love to do together.
It is an amazing thing to live in central Texas. Especially if you like to listen to great live music, dance, drink beer and even enjoy the great outdoors! One of the great land marks that David and I neither one had been to was Nutty Brown right here in Austin! It was a beautiful night; there was a most excellent breeze and seriously, it was one of the best concerts I've been to. I know it sounds we don't go to many, and we haven't in the last two years, but we used to! Anyway, the margaritas and beer were flowing and Bruce Robison and RRB rocked it. I did not particularly care for the smoking, but Matt "politely" suggested to this girl in front of us that if she blew out in our faces one more time, that she would not like his response. :) Then two guys dropped their (How you say...?) "bud" in front of David. Probably not smart to dump your pot in front of two cops, but luckily we were all there to have a good time. And my hubby and I were having a great time. I loved feeling so relaxed and knowing that David was too. It was so refreshing to hang out with people who like you for you and don't bring drama.
Since we were going to be out a little later than usual, and my parents were babysitting my nephew Drew, we asked our friend Natalie if the kids could hang out with she and her son. So Saturday evening after we dropped them off, David and I met a few friends at Chuy's (mmm!) and then headed to NB. It was so much fun and I can't wait to do it again!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Cody: 5-6 months
Lots of changes! After one month of cereal we introduced solids and Cody is a champion eater. At his 6 month check-up he weighed 16lbs. Just as exciting was the fact that he didn't have to go to the Dr. for an entire month (a first since he's been born)! At his 4 month check up he weighed 14lbs. 2oz.
I have made one attempt at baby food "meat" but Cody kept gagging in disgust and I don't blame him! His favorites are fruit and cereal and is still gassy with carrots, green beans and peas. Sweet potatoes are ok. We explained to the pediatrician that he still REALLY throws up a lot for hours after he's had a bottle and now she tells us he's got reflux. He's never showed signs of discomfort or pain so she just suggested that we add cereal to his bottle. It is working beautifully! He is still spitting up during/just after his bottle but in a much more bearable, "normal" amount. David and I are great with this concept and thankful we don't have to medicate him!
Mobility here we come. Cody gets up on all fours, sometimes into a "push-up" position. Otherwise he'll be on his hands and knees and start to rock back and forth. He is scooting sideways and backwards. Basically he goes everywhere BUT the blanket/pallet we lay down for him to play on. He will even get into a one-handed push-up position and is this close to pushing himself up to sit. He sits with support, but not for long; he is too impatient to stay still. He still loves his saucer and frequented his swing at daycare. Speaking of daycare, Cody and Emma are no longer at Stepping Stones, last Friday was their final day there. When I told Cody's afternoon teacher a couple of weeks earlier, she just about cried. We got stopped by 3/4 of the staff on our way out for last minute Cody kisses. I'm thankful for the kind hearts who took care of our kiddos.
Cody is taking between 4-5 7.5oz bottles with food/cereal 1-2 times a day. It's time to increase his food intake and we've purchased his first sippy-cup to try juice! He sleeps about 11 hours normally but has only recently been waking up once during the night for a diaper change/bottle. He is a complete joy and the apple of our eye. So far Emma is still completely enamored with him and I catch her doing things like combing his hair w/her barbie brushes and the other day she actually sang him to sleep in the car. He STARES at her on our ride home from school.
I cannot believe it has been 6 months. I still remember the EXACT pain I was in and the look on David's face when we locked eyes after Cody came out. I've been back to the OB...it seems David has been right all these years, I am imbalanced, lol. Things aren't leveling out like they should be and I was reminded last week how much of a miracle it was that I was able to get pregnant. I thank God for my blessings!
I have made one attempt at baby food "meat" but Cody kept gagging in disgust and I don't blame him! His favorites are fruit and cereal and is still gassy with carrots, green beans and peas. Sweet potatoes are ok. We explained to the pediatrician that he still REALLY throws up a lot for hours after he's had a bottle and now she tells us he's got reflux. He's never showed signs of discomfort or pain so she just suggested that we add cereal to his bottle. It is working beautifully! He is still spitting up during/just after his bottle but in a much more bearable, "normal" amount. David and I are great with this concept and thankful we don't have to medicate him!
Mobility here we come. Cody gets up on all fours, sometimes into a "push-up" position. Otherwise he'll be on his hands and knees and start to rock back and forth. He is scooting sideways and backwards. Basically he goes everywhere BUT the blanket/pallet we lay down for him to play on. He will even get into a one-handed push-up position and is this close to pushing himself up to sit. He sits with support, but not for long; he is too impatient to stay still. He still loves his saucer and frequented his swing at daycare. Speaking of daycare, Cody and Emma are no longer at Stepping Stones, last Friday was their final day there. When I told Cody's afternoon teacher a couple of weeks earlier, she just about cried. We got stopped by 3/4 of the staff on our way out for last minute Cody kisses. I'm thankful for the kind hearts who took care of our kiddos.
Cody is taking between 4-5 7.5oz bottles with food/cereal 1-2 times a day. It's time to increase his food intake and we've purchased his first sippy-cup to try juice! He sleeps about 11 hours normally but has only recently been waking up once during the night for a diaper change/bottle. He is a complete joy and the apple of our eye. So far Emma is still completely enamored with him and I catch her doing things like combing his hair w/her barbie brushes and the other day she actually sang him to sleep in the car. He STARES at her on our ride home from school.
I cannot believe it has been 6 months. I still remember the EXACT pain I was in and the look on David's face when we locked eyes after Cody came out. I've been back to the OB...it seems David has been right all these years, I am imbalanced, lol. Things aren't leveling out like they should be and I was reminded last week how much of a miracle it was that I was able to get pregnant. I thank God for my blessings!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Adventures in Baby Food!
Cody had his first 'solid' on July 3rd, 2010 just a few days after he turned 5 months old. Up first was green beans. Then sweet potatoes, bananas, carrots, squash, pears, peas and finally apples. He's tried all of the stage one foods except prunes. (blech.)
The only reaction he had was when we tried to introduce oatmeal instead of cereal. His face started turning red and splotchy so we immediately stopped feeding him the oatmeal, watched him closely and it went away almost instantly. Other than that, he is gassy with carrots and peas so we are steering clear of those right now. His favorite is bananas! He will eat any of his baby food warm or cold but no longer likes his cereal unless it is mixed with something.
I started out by giving him half of one jar of food and then some cereal. He is only having bottles during the day and "food" for dinner. When we first introduced cereal at 4 months, he fell asleep after eating and didn't take a bedtime bottle for at least two weeks. Then gradually he added back in the bottle and takes most of his 7oz bottle in addition to the baby food and cereal. On the weekends he has fruit for "breakfast" in addition to his bottle but since we are about to change daycares, I haven't added it to his daytime routine.
In the beginning Cody LOVED to take the spoon away, and get a death-grip on it with two hands! Mommy and Daddy have to use two hands to get it away from him. If we weren't feeding him fast enough, he'd grab the bowl himself. Here are some pictures from the last couple of weeks. Cody loooooves to eat.
"What am I doing up here, Mom?"
Death grip on spoon. He likes it!
All done. Not too bad for the first time.
Day three of green beans.
Kissable
Spoon being ransomed for more food.
The only reaction he had was when we tried to introduce oatmeal instead of cereal. His face started turning red and splotchy so we immediately stopped feeding him the oatmeal, watched him closely and it went away almost instantly. Other than that, he is gassy with carrots and peas so we are steering clear of those right now. His favorite is bananas! He will eat any of his baby food warm or cold but no longer likes his cereal unless it is mixed with something.
I started out by giving him half of one jar of food and then some cereal. He is only having bottles during the day and "food" for dinner. When we first introduced cereal at 4 months, he fell asleep after eating and didn't take a bedtime bottle for at least two weeks. Then gradually he added back in the bottle and takes most of his 7oz bottle in addition to the baby food and cereal. On the weekends he has fruit for "breakfast" in addition to his bottle but since we are about to change daycares, I haven't added it to his daytime routine.
In the beginning Cody LOVED to take the spoon away, and get a death-grip on it with two hands! Mommy and Daddy have to use two hands to get it away from him. If we weren't feeding him fast enough, he'd grab the bowl himself. Here are some pictures from the last couple of weeks. Cody loooooves to eat.
"What am I doing up here, Mom?"
Death grip on spoon. He likes it!
All done. Not too bad for the first time.
Day three of green beans.
Kissable
Spoon being ransomed for more food.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Weekend
What a busy weekend! Saturday morning Emma went to have breakfast with her grandparents so I helped her get ready and she left about 8AM. I went in to check on Cody and he was waking up so I changed him and together we woke up Daddy. I was hungry so we went to Kerby Lane for breakfast. Two eggs, two bacon and half of their half-size blueberry pancakes later I was full! Daddy got the same thing except he got pecan pancakes. Yummy! When Emma got home we went to get her haircut and then back home to get ready for her friend's birthday party. It was awesome- rainbow theme everywhere! This was one of her bff's 5th birthday who she went to daycare with as an infant through 3 years old and for the last year they have been in dance class together.
We had a little down time before it was time to take the kids to Grammy and Paw Paw's house. One of our friends is moving to Dallas so we were all getting together at Red's Porch in S. Austin as a little going-away party. We took 360 to get there and it was nice to have a sunset drive w/my hubby. Then we drank beer and ate chicken-fried steak! That's romance for 'ya! :) It was great to visit with so many of our friends at one time. That never happens!
Sunday morning we went to church at Redeemer. Emma enjoyed Sunday school and I know it was nice for her that four of her friends from preschool were there. It was Cody's first time to go to the nursery! They have a pager-system and everything a baby could want to play with or need! He did great and we got to enjoy church. My parents joined us and it was nice to worship together.
The sermon was about being servants in continuation of their series on Relationship Principles of Jesus. "The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Matthew 7:11-12 One of the things that Redeemer does is an interactive bulletin where you can fill in the important message of the day. This is a new thing for me but I enjoyed that reiteration of 'the point'.
For this Sunday these lines were:
"Humility means depending on God."
"Humility Handles our need for notice."
Everything they do is for men to see... Matthew 23:5
"Exalt yourself: You need other's notice."
"Humble yourself: You notice other's needs."
"Don't waste time worrying about honor! Live your life for an audience of One!
"Humility comes from our relationship to God."
"Humility is the true mark of greatness."
It was a wonderful service. We've mainly gone during the traditional service but this time enjoyed the blended service. I very much enjoyed the more modern songs that I know! But love hymnals and singing from the song book so I will have to get my fix of that too!
After church we had brunch w/my parents at Trudy's and went home briefly before taking the family to see Despicable Me! Hilarious movie and fun times! I love weekends w/the ones I love!
We had a little down time before it was time to take the kids to Grammy and Paw Paw's house. One of our friends is moving to Dallas so we were all getting together at Red's Porch in S. Austin as a little going-away party. We took 360 to get there and it was nice to have a sunset drive w/my hubby. Then we drank beer and ate chicken-fried steak! That's romance for 'ya! :) It was great to visit with so many of our friends at one time. That never happens!
Sunday morning we went to church at Redeemer. Emma enjoyed Sunday school and I know it was nice for her that four of her friends from preschool were there. It was Cody's first time to go to the nursery! They have a pager-system and everything a baby could want to play with or need! He did great and we got to enjoy church. My parents joined us and it was nice to worship together.
The sermon was about being servants in continuation of their series on Relationship Principles of Jesus. "The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Matthew 7:11-12 One of the things that Redeemer does is an interactive bulletin where you can fill in the important message of the day. This is a new thing for me but I enjoyed that reiteration of 'the point'.
For this Sunday these lines were:
"Humility means depending on God."
"Humility Handles our need for notice."
Everything they do is for men to see... Matthew 23:5
"Exalt yourself: You need other's notice."
"Humble yourself: You notice other's needs."
"Don't waste time worrying about honor! Live your life for an audience of One!
"Humility comes from our relationship to God."
"Humility is the true mark of greatness."
It was a wonderful service. We've mainly gone during the traditional service but this time enjoyed the blended service. I very much enjoyed the more modern songs that I know! But love hymnals and singing from the song book so I will have to get my fix of that too!
After church we had brunch w/my parents at Trudy's and went home briefly before taking the family to see Despicable Me! Hilarious movie and fun times! I love weekends w/the ones I love!
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