tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87694022670382657182024-03-05T05:30:04.396-08:00Susan & Brad + 2First we had each other. Then we had you. Now we have EVERYTHING.Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.comBlogger189125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-44686279083166408932012-11-27T08:17:00.001-08:002012-11-27T08:17:28.805-08:00ThanksgivingWe had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. Brad had the entire week off, which is a first! We spent most of the week relaxing - lots of sleeping in and napping. We also took a day to go to Calhoun and visit my Aunt Pearl and cousin Nancy. It was their first time meeting Abby! Pearl is my Dad's oldest sister. It was a nice visit! After that, we drove just down the road to Brad's Dad's house to celebrate his 60th birthday. It was a great trip and great food!<br />
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For Thanksgiving day we spent the day in Thomson with my Aunt Claire and her family. It was wonderful! The girls loved spending the day in the country and seeing lots of cows! It's so important to me to instill in my girls a sense of family during the holidays. I wish more than anything that they could have the same memories of the holidays that I have - spent with extended family. I think that's the most important thing in the world. There's nothing more important than family. <br />
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A few days later we went to Brad's mom's house for Thanksgiving dinner with their side of the family. We all had a great time and got to spend some great quality time together. It was a nice week! <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLUqx5C1L9ETb0rdk3lsrza5ARwrttnqKbqlRTljWi9Wm3gWyooW25mizASrH1AldUzTwIjm_nOAEmiQDHilP0ovRcS4ZOpAEhyphenhyphenvOySyYJtumJj1DITUYsU9uF7p4b94KP8aLM3iEe6cog/s640/blogger-image-1205773935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLUqx5C1L9ETb0rdk3lsrza5ARwrttnqKbqlRTljWi9Wm3gWyooW25mizASrH1AldUzTwIjm_nOAEmiQDHilP0ovRcS4ZOpAEhyphenhyphenvOySyYJtumJj1DITUYsU9uF7p4b94KP8aLM3iEe6cog/s640/blogger-image-1205773935.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoI43aCGk3Ebmu4MKOH_cg-I-kfWm3SuXelqR7rGeRC9zKVSrbd3d7lOpky3jSXP-hhpD91PAMnn7sUOGp9xn9qADVU5aQpn6dNJuNry2V9OcrWnSsEhZBNWHnvrLS00a-JdlJMbELNOPw/s640/blogger-image-178623253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoI43aCGk3Ebmu4MKOH_cg-I-kfWm3SuXelqR7rGeRC9zKVSrbd3d7lOpky3jSXP-hhpD91PAMnn7sUOGp9xn9qADVU5aQpn6dNJuNry2V9OcrWnSsEhZBNWHnvrLS00a-JdlJMbELNOPw/s640/blogger-image-178623253.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAv8HYCN5rds0O77nvyiO2GOq1HAid15pQBCB8NxldN3z3cRDsfpJPAfNS2DDTC0TKvP4kIMq_rakh2o_hW3A9w0aazfpK7QyIWC6ZwQVm1HJ20tVt2yzcm6PyuJuulBdzZoCwORHr5eed/s640/blogger-image-1816017811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAv8HYCN5rds0O77nvyiO2GOq1HAid15pQBCB8NxldN3z3cRDsfpJPAfNS2DDTC0TKvP4kIMq_rakh2o_hW3A9w0aazfpK7QyIWC6ZwQVm1HJ20tVt2yzcm6PyuJuulBdzZoCwORHr5eed/s640/blogger-image-1816017811.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYdr6UO2IN_Q8JMk5FpVEz1BrNAzy-XQYclMyzcDBFmAC6GTNrsgN8spebcFU-CpUuWDV5XF1xe1GWHNGd3xbc0xQUnEmPmVj_lb9EDargHHR7T3KXbqU32UVLx2THPFuKcgcBg1tbtuCb/s640/blogger-image--1839298778.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYdr6UO2IN_Q8JMk5FpVEz1BrNAzy-XQYclMyzcDBFmAC6GTNrsgN8spebcFU-CpUuWDV5XF1xe1GWHNGd3xbc0xQUnEmPmVj_lb9EDargHHR7T3KXbqU32UVLx2THPFuKcgcBg1tbtuCb/s640/blogger-image--1839298778.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGT2AcCVKeYYeJKe2sea47DUaMxYxTUu5lLG2KlNxrpM5lcvFxyZPd0WlUJjQh-LQG_6Gc8Oy0aM_3NsglOrr7bzAf90vPAHUuNGzoaRd51AYBiQNTwA5sFiB73cBi25eorjAwKJWTJibx/s640/blogger-image-240326567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGT2AcCVKeYYeJKe2sea47DUaMxYxTUu5lLG2KlNxrpM5lcvFxyZPd0WlUJjQh-LQG_6Gc8Oy0aM_3NsglOrr7bzAf90vPAHUuNGzoaRd51AYBiQNTwA5sFiB73cBi25eorjAwKJWTJibx/s640/blogger-image-240326567.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3XSADtrJP2Mpk42vrByYSRG96VKKFERV565LvolWUvvZ90IZZjIXQuToU6AO8yusDMB-x0cP17QdqDwQ6fH_GbMy-B9yt-n9H_ZjQZk9EbOqFGt9wAN6J7Z3qVQrtQr-9DlGVeugD41Z/s640/blogger-image--737910208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3XSADtrJP2Mpk42vrByYSRG96VKKFERV565LvolWUvvZ90IZZjIXQuToU6AO8yusDMB-x0cP17QdqDwQ6fH_GbMy-B9yt-n9H_ZjQZk9EbOqFGt9wAN6J7Z3qVQrtQr-9DlGVeugD41Z/s640/blogger-image--737910208.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuPr_6qDdhMj4MttM4Mke2XRPr6tpDoRIlkhk7Z90dCw_npUQTh-vTgj30JQTbH1AxkNu-Y5ekFAGcksr_PfjjIljjeddzqk9tlJGkdlNv7qrnfjXA2z9TixdLSsEMbXBzj4XzDr2B65F3/s640/blogger-image--1621883340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuPr_6qDdhMj4MttM4Mke2XRPr6tpDoRIlkhk7Z90dCw_npUQTh-vTgj30JQTbH1AxkNu-Y5ekFAGcksr_PfjjIljjeddzqk9tlJGkdlNv7qrnfjXA2z9TixdLSsEMbXBzj4XzDr2B65F3/s640/blogger-image--1621883340.jpg" /></a></div>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-56930944103157223432012-11-14T13:59:00.001-08:002012-11-14T13:59:15.600-08:00Wordless Wednesday<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvC_HfEJpf1B8SSwaB1wPa330tJ7KsHWgNIQC0LwcXZtWf30asCopIkUslZhbEXPg6EUf9JdMDdDYFNWN-A0zRNNn85qfnYbGBYMKh1-LW_Yut3AoLBuCa4arvFsTO5ArILel0lwAN0hxw/s640/blogger-image-1474233439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvC_HfEJpf1B8SSwaB1wPa330tJ7KsHWgNIQC0LwcXZtWf30asCopIkUslZhbEXPg6EUf9JdMDdDYFNWN-A0zRNNn85qfnYbGBYMKh1-LW_Yut3AoLBuCa4arvFsTO5ArILel0lwAN0hxw/s640/blogger-image-1474233439.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirFBPC-p1HzrKwBVxOU5xWBwUL5Tx0aOw2WaUe3-e27VgMba6bVl0n6h4vDmb1C8bkPVXndnY9OlLIgg6wfBCAObocF80hacI5o-1PGuTBRfEyBeQN5WwND4wCfDsiutlKY3MkJYk7TcMA/s640/blogger-image-1753695423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirFBPC-p1HzrKwBVxOU5xWBwUL5Tx0aOw2WaUe3-e27VgMba6bVl0n6h4vDmb1C8bkPVXndnY9OlLIgg6wfBCAObocF80hacI5o-1PGuTBRfEyBeQN5WwND4wCfDsiutlKY3MkJYk7TcMA/s640/blogger-image-1753695423.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGIHfyO6A9xqzMHNkyppQphj9EpopxOlOfxpt2OshyphenhyphenCaFOZDjL4EAaMSv3VuhR0JXm44MFSZN-T5IQ0T_Na1JXCo6Jr0Rrp43ejYqh52SpAeLGaeFIiG5BWjoXywuJ0ozBgWuirJeN2tx/s640/blogger-image--1832708712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGIHfyO6A9xqzMHNkyppQphj9EpopxOlOfxpt2OshyphenhyphenCaFOZDjL4EAaMSv3VuhR0JXm44MFSZN-T5IQ0T_Na1JXCo6Jr0Rrp43ejYqh52SpAeLGaeFIiG5BWjoXywuJ0ozBgWuirJeN2tx/s640/blogger-image--1832708712.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJ0k3vTx0-iPM-O7HaWOgCoXDKbpCF1YeiqxVK5rMXefBO-L4s0OLcN1NzSBGdK1E-hizJaPws8dkSI46kSMshg8KJRrvHXjdMKiBlsdkSgUq_KA9ewXq_Zuh7YDyM4fP86y1JLqQSXJB/s640/blogger-image-609941738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJ0k3vTx0-iPM-O7HaWOgCoXDKbpCF1YeiqxVK5rMXefBO-L4s0OLcN1NzSBGdK1E-hizJaPws8dkSI46kSMshg8KJRrvHXjdMKiBlsdkSgUq_KA9ewXq_Zuh7YDyM4fP86y1JLqQSXJB/s640/blogger-image-609941738.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm_bJlgsErYz6cfUDh0fy3lY2yqzl3JmV7ZKKShB1lca3Gn9L4aDDc-Lsn_9u4sH_AAbeWKDhfVPgI7SS9k_EhyphenhyphenmxtU-lguiI3Ox3kBZNjODlM9TU_lYajmqKEPTyyRYBGlkUC9vHB1Wj8/s640/blogger-image-1134566139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm_bJlgsErYz6cfUDh0fy3lY2yqzl3JmV7ZKKShB1lca3Gn9L4aDDc-Lsn_9u4sH_AAbeWKDhfVPgI7SS9k_EhyphenhyphenmxtU-lguiI3Ox3kBZNjODlM9TU_lYajmqKEPTyyRYBGlkUC9vHB1Wj8/s640/blogger-image-1134566139.jpg" /></a></div>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-13928791117455596282012-11-11T08:40:00.001-08:002012-11-11T08:42:17.314-08:00Relaxing weekendIt has been SUCH a nice weekend! It is the first in the last several months that has had nothing at all planned. There's something to be said for 2 whole days of freedom. We have enjoyed every second so far!<br />
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Yesterday was nice. The girls slept in for the first time since daylight savings time screwed us up. We spent a lazy morning at the Dekalb Farmers Market and followed that up with some samosas for lunch and a long family nap. It was divine! We spent the evening snuggling and playing with the girls. <br />
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Today has found us running a few errands. Brad is getting a MUCH needed haircut (against his will) and I will be doing the weekly meal planning and grocery run. Not my favorite thing to do, but it will be a nice quick trip as Brad will have the girls with him at home. Hoping for another nap this afternoon. :) Can't beat it!<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSDfnvS6xXjqe60ceYheO7FAaS0pF30vlVTzA6OujGP0Tcz9sALkqanzEfzfuGwAikxRluhyoE4hq65d8XBT2bhBxgSE6PsHx-V7rg0Agl_qvCfg67C8YIdsQxPWoJvhB53zQJRWEZIWBb/s640/blogger-image-389313270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSDfnvS6xXjqe60ceYheO7FAaS0pF30vlVTzA6OujGP0Tcz9sALkqanzEfzfuGwAikxRluhyoE4hq65d8XBT2bhBxgSE6PsHx-V7rg0Agl_qvCfg67C8YIdsQxPWoJvhB53zQJRWEZIWBb/s640/blogger-image-389313270.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_j_6MrGrFKzw0v0U6k6wmnF9LdNhLd6pZymG7q9-P7tXeulOEUxU8lLvEjwqbdSx1bmR8F4WRn9m_u8LP1N5lGzAHlLyRjI_T8ZoN7FyDRZBXauhdZg4eqRnN3SppgRVZjhEgqZyeCvss/s640/blogger-image-1944481997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_j_6MrGrFKzw0v0U6k6wmnF9LdNhLd6pZymG7q9-P7tXeulOEUxU8lLvEjwqbdSx1bmR8F4WRn9m_u8LP1N5lGzAHlLyRjI_T8ZoN7FyDRZBXauhdZg4eqRnN3SppgRVZjhEgqZyeCvss/s640/blogger-image-1944481997.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyy4V7LLmre3HU4dI49SYKLI87No6YURtIA6QGJ7vyN1sHRSvsW3s1K2J3b3mbTIIuLLwXuEidFYCE5y_9YJ0UK11IETL58h4KqQBYBbLlDOg-FKeGCrnpYXcasx9s7DuuKNo2lzCwNI7a/s640/blogger-image--1001666007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyy4V7LLmre3HU4dI49SYKLI87No6YURtIA6QGJ7vyN1sHRSvsW3s1K2J3b3mbTIIuLLwXuEidFYCE5y_9YJ0UK11IETL58h4KqQBYBbLlDOg-FKeGCrnpYXcasx9s7DuuKNo2lzCwNI7a/s640/blogger-image--1001666007.jpg" /></a></div>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-78028502849867869152012-11-05T08:10:00.001-08:002012-11-05T08:11:20.365-08:00Bad Mommy-blogger!I can hardly believe that it's been nearly 6 months since I last posted. It's ridiculous. We've been so busy living life that I've scarcely found time to write about it. I DO keep daily journals for each of the girls, but I had such high hopes of keeping up with regular blog entries as well. Oh well. That's the past, I suppose!<br />
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I've just discovered the blogger app on my iPhone, so I'm hoping that I'll be able to post a little more conveniently. I take nearly all of my photos these days (and there are usually 5 or more. a day!) on my phone so it eliminated a few steps to post from my phone as well. <br />
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Here are a few photos of the last few days! <div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajdJHpATi9dRRaNC8qyT6kUG9R18B8LmJcs0xOnFVOqbMhvmCVKeJBxcnhm9Q2SmHc8pkg4h-NbSKkJ2XuNDVNfSQVReMIU-f93LGtCofC8UD_-_NO-Sz-7rXFPVrjCthT7e5ZVY2CWu6/s640/blogger-image--1338767836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajdJHpATi9dRRaNC8qyT6kUG9R18B8LmJcs0xOnFVOqbMhvmCVKeJBxcnhm9Q2SmHc8pkg4h-NbSKkJ2XuNDVNfSQVReMIU-f93LGtCofC8UD_-_NO-Sz-7rXFPVrjCthT7e5ZVY2CWu6/s640/blogger-image--1338767836.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_lMF0kZMpXVsJNhUfKRhJzmVcRqOC_FK9J9BmRODIjh1WiihN0sIvzGwVEbV-M6_7udSCY0NjPSn-VjJmjpvmRphnmqL7PV7gzN-F9hPxWxCbi2OGKBMVZ79mF2EEvbpD2wuNDslMhAX/s640/blogger-image--1485125133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_lMF0kZMpXVsJNhUfKRhJzmVcRqOC_FK9J9BmRODIjh1WiihN0sIvzGwVEbV-M6_7udSCY0NjPSn-VjJmjpvmRphnmqL7PV7gzN-F9hPxWxCbi2OGKBMVZ79mF2EEvbpD2wuNDslMhAX/s640/blogger-image--1485125133.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_MbIvNymkfe-RnT_EWlgmgVOtreAh5ZdAp85ScxZMVwIKNHJMtiDQ0NrAXsYB3p0liuaMhXay6Zst3qydfrDgw8KpItRvlOVG1IIHRbkUynfhkKGq2cSC0qodfNk3jdCdTZRERKbuLbS/s640/blogger-image--2053003528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_MbIvNymkfe-RnT_EWlgmgVOtreAh5ZdAp85ScxZMVwIKNHJMtiDQ0NrAXsYB3p0liuaMhXay6Zst3qydfrDgw8KpItRvlOVG1IIHRbkUynfhkKGq2cSC0qodfNk3jdCdTZRERKbuLbS/s640/blogger-image--2053003528.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin4a3DYljnqw9FLcDfpVBSMIy_Qwbazg-ej34UADu5MXsw2fAAuaOOkMufgvfZIjZCYjmDmzl__s3ar0zsWB0jkl7VwykSaa5S6JQJ7xqn-nfTdVT4MyMyFwmoq5nujdRaISv6YAiYbTqj/s640/blogger-image-738721170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin4a3DYljnqw9FLcDfpVBSMIy_Qwbazg-ej34UADu5MXsw2fAAuaOOkMufgvfZIjZCYjmDmzl__s3ar0zsWB0jkl7VwykSaa5S6JQJ7xqn-nfTdVT4MyMyFwmoq5nujdRaISv6YAiYbTqj/s640/blogger-image-738721170.jpg" /></a></div>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-15921707412360162372012-05-14T09:58:00.002-07:002012-05-14T09:58:54.166-07:00Easter<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Get ready for photo overload! Consider yourself warned.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We had a fabulous and very laid back Easter this year. We did a photo shoot the day before Easter with <a href="http://mycharmingkids.net/" target="_blank">MckMama</a> (any of you who follow other Mommy-Blogs will know of her). It went really well and we should be getting the CD in the mail soon, so I'll be sure to share! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We had a great time coloring Easter eggs. Emma was ALL into it, and Abby supervised the operation.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Easter fell on Brad's 30th birthday this year, which he was very excited about (NOT!). We woke up to see all of the loot that the Easter Bunny left the girls. They were both pretty excited!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We headed to church and met Mimi there. The girls did great! They both made it through most of the service, though Abby was sleepy, but not sleepy enough to fall asleep. We all took turns passing her back and forth/wrestling with her. Emma even prayed out loud with the priest once. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">After church we went to Mimi's to have Easter lunch and an Easter egg hunt. It was Abby's first egg hunt and she loved it! She went down for a nap as soon as it was over. The girls dresses were baby shower gifts from Brad's parents when I was pregnant with Abby. They wore them for some professional photos when Abby was about 4 months old - and they still fit! Abby's is a 6 month size - told you she was tiny!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">These are some of my favorites. Love how sneaky Abby is while snatching sister's eggs!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">After an awesome lunch we headed back home for a nap before dinner with Brad's family to celebrate his birthday and Easter at the same time. He ended up with 2 cakes that day, so he can't complain too much!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It was a really nice Easter. I honestly don't remember Easter last year. My Dad had just passed away and it was all a blur. This one was much better, though we certainly missed him every second of the day.</span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-49733682300990075712012-05-14T09:37:00.000-07:002012-05-14T09:37:19.601-07:00Playing Catch Up<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I've been such a bad blogging mommy lately. I've just been SO darn busy that I barely get a spare moment. And when I do, there are ever so many things that I need to do. The girls take a nap around the same time each afternoon, which provides a tad bit of a break for me, but it's rare these days. Abby's naps are sometimes super short and as soon as I get Emma down and laundry started, Abby's up. I personally think that she just wants some one on one time with Mommy to play! </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm going to do a bit of catching up over the next few days. Abby is nearly a year old (AH!!!!) AND Emma will be 3 before we know it. It feels like it was just yesterday that we brought each of them home from the hospital. How on EARTH are they so big!?!?!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-13861913334399404682012-03-12T08:56:00.000-07:002012-03-12T08:56:28.132-07:00A really nice weekend.<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This weekend was just really great. It was energizing, refocusing, and family-driven, which we really needed. We had a really challenging week last week. It was full of late nights, cars breaking down, sleepless nights (thank you, Abby), and going through the motions. So often lately I feel like we just put one foot in front of the other. We don't get out of the house enough, leaving to have dinners with family, grocery shop, or just run errands when necessary. We go through the motions of the day, exhausted and completely devoid of energy or inspiration in the end. We NEEDED a great weekend to adjust our focus back to where it should be - on our family.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Brad had Friday off as a furlough day, but it was pretty much a disappointment that threatened to ruin our 3-day weekend. Due to tons of errands and lots of school stuff for Brad, we ended up just staying around the house. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Luckily enough, I won tickets to a show at the Center for Puppetry Arts on Facebook, of all places. We had to wake up early, shift naps around, and do some seriously strategic planning, but it was all worth it in the end. I regret to say that I don't have a single photo of the day. Photography was strictly prohibited in the entire place, so I didn't even bother to bring a camera. It was SO much fun! We saw "Space!" which was a little too educational for my taste, but the girls loved it. Both girls made it through the entire show! The stadium bench seats were perfect, and Emma was able to see the stage easily from her seat. Abby made it until the last few minutes when she got so excited that she started talking to the puppets. Brad took her out for a few minutes of a break. Just about that time, Emma told me that she needed to go potty. We grabbed the rest of our stuff and made it to the bathroom (our very first public restroom experience!). There, she touched everything in sight as I scream/whispered - DON'T TOUCH ANYTHING!!!!! It was pretty funny, after the fact.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As we were heading back to the theater, Brad came out and told us it had just finished. So much fun!! We got to see a real Big Bird, Ernie, Kermit and Rowlf (from the Muppets). Lots of other puppets from the Jim Henson collection as well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We headed home for a nice long family nap. It was just an awesome day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">On Sunday we decided to venture to Stone Mountain (where we had planned to go on Friday) and ride the Sky Lift. For those of you who haven't been, it's a large trolley-type car that goes up the side of the mountain on a cable system to the top. We rode to the top of the mountain and got to walk around and see the city. It was SOOOO windy! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The girls had such a great time. Abby stayed snugly and warmly in the Moby wrap, which was perfect for the trip. Emma scared the crap out of both of us several times. Brad decided that we might need to invest in a leash for her for next time. :) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />Brad loved how Abby's eyes got HUGE every time she looked out of the cable car.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It was so great to re-charge and spend some quality family time. We really needed it. Now if we can just make it through another long week full of late work days for Brad and this God-forsaken time change, we'll be doing good!</span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-78046838846996024392012-03-04T19:58:00.000-08:002012-03-04T19:58:56.768-08:008 Months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Yes, as has become typical with these posts, Abby is, in fact, 9 months old now. And yes, I am just now getting around to doing her 8 month post. I know, I know. I'm sure she'll hate me forever once she's old enough to know how post-dated her monthly update posts were. She'll live. I'm certain of it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Anyway. Abby at 8 months. It wasn't a terribly exciting month, but we had a few "firsts." Abby caught her first real cold. Emma got it first, passed it to Abby, and then to me. It was pretty rough. Low-grade fever, congestion, runny nose and NO sleep. The best part is that she had just really started to sleep through the night with some regularity when the shit hit the fan. It took an act of God to get her sleeping again, but I'm happy to report that she's back on track now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She wants to be put DOWN all of the time!! She will arch her back, wrestle, fling herself backward, and do the worm in order to get you to put her in the floor to play. Once in the floor, she gets up on all fours and rocks backwards, or just commando crawls to whatever she wants. And she's FAST! What she lacks in size, she makes up for in speed. She's hell on wheels and you can't turn your back for a second. Her favorite mission in life? To get into Emma's potty. And she's stealthy about it. Little stink.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As much as she wants to get down to play, she also adores me holding her. I think she'd be content to ride around on my hip for about 95% of the day. She doesn't like being sat in her exersaucer or her swing for more than a few seconds, and she's the first one to let you know how displeased she is with the situation. I told my mom, when she's grown up and has had one baby, I'm going to get her back for this. I'm going to wait until that baby is about 18 months old - you know, REALLY good and busy, and I'm going to buy her a monkey. Not just any monkey. One that wears diapers and screams when you put it down. And one that smears food all over its face while you feed it, and fights like a cage fighter when you try to get him dressed. I'm going to make her carry that monkey around all day while she chases her other child around. And I'm going to laugh. Really hard. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's also eating like a horse. Brad wants to come to her next check up so that he can find out where her hollow leg is. Seriously. She eats like it's her job. WAY more than Emma ever did, and Emma outweighed her by about half. She eats 4-5 ounces of fruits/veggies with oatmeal mixed in at each of her 3 meals. She also eats a ton of Gerber puffs, Baby Mum Mums (her personal favorite), and other finger foods. She nurses about 5 times a day. She likes rice, cut up cooked veggies or fruit, and rice cakes. She's a hawg. Not a "hog." A HAWG!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The funniest part is that she's still a peanut. There are a couple of tiny leg rolls, but she's still SO skinny and small. My aunt Claire says she'll fool you because she looks like such a tiny baby, but she ISN'T! She's got a lot of personality and if the food's not coming fast enough, you'd better cover your ears. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She is in 6 month clothes. She can wear 6-9 months, but 3-6 still fits comfortably. She's in a size 2 diaper (but she's still in a size small diaper cover). Not sure what she weighs, but I'd be willing to bet it's not even 16lbs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She loves her big sister, but big sister is rough when they play, so she's a little scared at times! So is her mommy. Emma wants to roll around and rough house with her, but is still learning that she's small and easily hurt. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She has recently decided that it's hysterical when someone pretends to gag. She's got the best laugh ever. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She adores the remote control, just like her big sister did.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She still looks just like her mama, and more and more like her Grandpa every day. Every now and then I take a picture and look back at it and my breath is just sucked away - she looks SO much like him. That has been such a blessing for me because I am so devastated that he never got to meet her on this side of heaven. I just know he would adore her so much. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This month has not been particularly busy, but Abby's been busy growing like a little weed. How on earth has it nearly been a year?? I'm planning a joint party for Abby's first and Emma's third birthdays. SO hard to believe time has flown that fast.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-55487259204255458812012-02-13T18:59:00.000-08:002012-02-13T18:59:50.101-08:00Potty Training!<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I haven't written about this yet, for fear of jinxing it. Hell, I'm scared to say anything even NOW! Emma is pretty much potty trained! This is week 3 or 4, though I can't remember exactly.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We bought her a potty about a year ago, knowing that we'd need it "someday." We tried twice, (once for a good 3 days, once for about a day) and were pretty unsuccessful. She didn't seem to have the awareness that she was going at all, and would get VERY upset if she saw her prize (usually an M&M) and didn't get it. She just wasn't ready.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And then one day, she was. I changed a particularly nasty diaper and, whilst trying not to gag, said to her, "You know what? We're done with this. You're a big girl and you can use the potty now." I put a pair of the itty bittiest panties you've ever seen (either princess, Yo Gabba, or Minnie Mouse) on her, and she did it. I don't even think she had 1 accident that first day. She was SO proud of herself!! She's only had a handful of accidents at all and the ones that she has had, have been because she was distracted. She's clearly still learning to listen to her body.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I can't tell you how proud I am of her. She figured it out almost instantly and there's been no turning back. Her potty sings to her as soon as she goes, and she's thrilled with the sense of control it gives her. She isn't trip trained - in fact, she will almost ALWAYS say "no" when you ask if she needs to go. She knows when she needs to, and either tells me or just goes and sits. She's such a big girl. She also uses a toilet seat reducer ring on our toilet, though the little potty seems to have a bigger draw for her when we're home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She has pooped several times on the potty, and has only had 1 of "those" accidents. She often waits until after naptime and goes in her diaper before I get her up. She's still diapered for nap and overnight, as those diapers are SOAKED when she wakes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I thought I'd go ahead and add a picture of her "doing the deed," as I'm sure she'll appreciate me for it someday. HA! Emma, if you're reading this as an adult, be sure that I wiped your little butt and washed your diapers enough times over the course of your 2.5 years to earn the right to post as many pictures of you sitting on the potty as I want to. And I DO want to. I will, however, spare you the picture of the first time she pooped on the potty. Nobody wants to see that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-35199182122548854812012-02-13T12:43:00.000-08:002012-02-13T12:43:19.537-08:007 Months<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'll admit it. I'm a horrible mother. My last post was when Abby was 6 months old, and she's now 8 months old. In my own defense, life FLIES these days!! I usually don't get around to taking her monthly photos until the very end of the month anyway, but this last month just completely snuck by me.</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'll add in some fuzzy phone pictures (just about all I have this month!) and hope it suffices.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So what was Abby up to at 7 months? A lot! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She is sitting up pretty well, but has decided it's pretty pointless because she can now get up on all 4s and rock! She seems to think I'm going to allow this, but she's mistaken. She's been forbidden to become mobile until she turns 3. Or maybe 4. We haven't decided yet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's eating like a COW. Seriously. She eats a minimum of 4 ounces of baby food (around 2 jars, if she were eating processed baby food) and has come to discover the joy that IS "puffs." She also loves Baby Mum Mums, which I have decided are God's gift to mothers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She is still spitting up MUCH less than she was, now that she's on Zantac. We are loving it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm not sure what she weighs, but I imagine she's still in the 14lb. area. My joke these days is that with Emma, we played "count the rolls." With Abby, we play "count the wrinkles."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She is finally in size 2 diapers, though she's still cloth diapered all the time. We haven't bought a single new diaper. She's in all of Emma's old ones. Talk about saving money!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She wears 6 month, or 6-9 month clothes. Technically, she still fits in 3 month and 3-6 month, but I have a TON of Emma's clothes to go through with her. Emma's first winter, she was in 6-9 or 9 month clothes. Abby's a full size below, at least. As luck would have it, Emma literally had more clothes during that season than any other, and more than she could ever wear. I've pulled out several outfits with tags still on them, so they're new to Abby! I had 2 Rubbermaid boxes of 6-9 month clothes. Ridiculous.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She had her first diaper rash this month and it was BAD. We think it may have been from too much yogurt. Still not sure. A friend recommended Calmoseptine cream, which was a godsend. We also did lots of nekkid time and some soaks in baking soda baths, as you can see. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I re-discovered, during that rash, the biggest reason I hate disposable diapers. In one day, she had 3 diaper explosions. RIDICULOUS. Had she been in cloth, none of them would have occurred. Not to mention, I wouldn't have spent $10 on a stupid pack of diapers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's still swaddled to sleep, and shows no signs of breaking loose. We have tried to leave 1 arm out a few times, and it was a nightmare. Just not worth it. Emma proved to us, she won't go to preschool in a swaddle blanket.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She has been a pretty good sleeper at night, but naps have been shot to hell. For some reason, she has decided that she only needs 1-1.5 hour naps in the afternoon, and no evening catnap anymore. Mommy knows that she really needs more like 2-2.5 hour naps.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She ADORES her sister. Emma can make her laugh harder than anyone else. The love is so mutual these days. Emma adores Abby and CONSTANTLY wants me to hold Abby up so she can dance with her. She also likes to tell me where to "put" Abby. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">They take "sister baths" pretty frequently now, and both love it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm sure no one will be interested in this, but I thought I'd mention it for my own memory's sake. Abby is a poop machine. She spent the first half of her life maybe going once every 2 weeks, if we were lucky. Now, it's a minimum of 4 times a day. Seriously! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's coming into her own, so to speak. She's got quite a personality, and it's pretty funny! She tells you what she wants and when she wants it. She DOESN'T wait well. If she sees me getting her food ready, she starts complaining about how long I'm taking with it. She's a mess.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She loves her food. She particularly enjoys avocado, sweet potato, and pears. She also loves peas, butternut (or acorn) squash, peaches, applesauce, bananas, prunes, and carrots. All of those are mixed with baby oatmeal in order to thicken them. She tolerates green beans.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She had her first REAL solid food this month - pizza crust. She insisted that she needed it, and I was tired of listening to her yell about it, to be honest. Second-child syndrome. I don't think I ever would have handed Emma something like that to make her stop yelling. Got to be honest! She thought she had died and gone to heaven.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Month 8 update coming soon!! :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-10779041869525730002012-01-10T08:37:00.000-08:002012-01-10T08:37:08.658-08:006 Months<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Time is flying by, as it always seems to be these days. Abby's already 7 months, and her little 6 month photo shoot wasn't completed until a few days before. At least she was technically still 6 months old, right? :) Please excuse the lack of variety in the pictures. I remembered that we had forgotten to take them one afternoon when I was out somewhere with Emma, so I asked Brad to take the photos for me. He used his own new camera and forgot to take of the time/date stamp, so they all had a huge neon label on them. He also "experimented" with some camera settings, so they were also all blurry. Ick.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's such a sweet heart. She brings the brightest little light to our family, and it's hard to imagine life before her. She makes all 3 of us smile each day and is just so much fun. Her big sister still adores her and makes her laugh harder than anyone else. Emma adores trying to hold Abby's hands and "dancing" with her. She does little dances and funny voices to make her laugh, which makes us all crack up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She has started to say her first word this month! Brad got her to say "Mama" one time, and she hasn't stopped since! She is sparing with it, but it's the sweetest sound ever.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's grown so much since last month. At her last appointment she was 13lbs. 4oz. (2nd percentile) and 25.25 inches long (9th percentile). She's a peanut, and probably will stay that way from the looks of it. In comparison, at Emma's 6 month appointment, she was 16lbs 10oz and 26 inches long. A big difference!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She wears 6 month clothing, or 3-6 month. She can still fit into her 3 month stuff though! She looks so funny to me with things like her sippy cup because she looks like she should be too small to do things like drinking from a cup. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She loves to eat, and has started to eat 3 solid meals a day (in addition to still nursing about 6 times a day). She loves just about everything we feed her, but her favorite is prunes. So far she's tried pears, apples, prunes, bananas, avocados, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, carrots, green beans, and peas. She has also recently started eating yogurt, which is quickly becoming a favorite.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She wears size 1 diapers still, believe it or not. She is cloth diapered full time, but had a brief time in disposable diapers this month when she got her first diaper rash. Pretty sure the yogurt was the culprit, but it cleared up within a day or 2. Gotta love some purple Desitin!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She is rolling all over the place, and really starting to sit up as well. She started Zantac a couple of weeks ago. With it, she now sometimes goes all day without spitting up. Then again, there are days that it doesn't seem to help at all. Not sure what the deal is. We gave it to her for a day or 2 with her spitting it ALL out before realizing that it tasted vile. Actually, Brad tasted it and said it was the worst thing ever. I took it to CVS and had them flavor it. They said that the flavor was so bad, the only flavor they had that would touch it was grape. Can you imagine? She does much better with the grape flavoring, though she still hates it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's happy nearly all the time, and is a great sleeper. She's still swaddled, and shows no signs of being ready to stop. By this point, Emma was breaking out of it on a daily basis - not Dabbs! She takes 2 good, long naps a day, and one cat nap around 5:30. She's good about letting me wake her up from naps, unlike her sister was, so she's on a good schedule. Her naps are from 10:00-11:30, 1:00-3:00 (or until she wakes up) and 5:30-6:15. Bedtime is between 8:00-9 and she sleeps until around 9:00 the next morning. We started some sleep training this month, and she has had several nights of sleeping through the night, though she sometimes needs the passy put back in once or so. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's our little monkey and we adore her!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-32935191170904376272011-12-27T13:21:00.000-08:002011-12-27T13:21:26.281-08:00Christmas Party<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Every year, since I was a kid, I've gone to the Christmas party that my mom's job puts on. Santa is there, there are lots of crafts to do, and music. It's just fun! Emma's first year, we got the BEST pictures of her with Santa. She was about Abby's age and just mesmerized. The next year, she was 1.5 and terrified. I was curious about how this year's experience would be.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">A few weeks beforehand, she had talked nonstop about Santa. She begged to go see him, so we loaded up one afternoon and hit the mall. I wanted her to see him from a distance and get comfortable with the idea that he wasn't a very scary guy. It turned out that he was walking around the mall and we got to visit him up close. Emma was in the stroller and felt pretty safe. She talked to him all about the Mickey Mouse in a store window, and presents. He gave her a high five and called her by name (tripped her OUT!). I was figuring the Santa visit at the Lekotek party would be just as awesome. Wrong.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She had fun making reindeer food, crafts, singing music, running around. Then it came time to see the fat man. She saw him from a distance and wasn't very happy. I decided it would be best to get some pictures with just Abby first because we stood the best chance of getting cute pictures without her sister, in case she screamed. I was right. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Cute Abby pictures, and then I tried to get Emma to sit on my lap next to Santa. Freak out. As you can see, it wasn't pretty. I wonder how next year will go??</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-4645714047161216272011-12-27T13:14:00.000-08:002011-12-27T13:37:26.770-08:00Christmas<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This Christmas was a bittersweet one. Emma was REALLY into all things "Christmas." She adored driving around and looking at lights, Christmas music, baking, making an Advent calendar snowman, and decorating the house. However, always near the forefront of my mind was the missing piece. Christmas was Dad's favorite holiday and he LOVED to give gifts. He was famous for asking my input for all of Mom's gifts, and then, after all of the gifts were opened, sneaking somewhere and pulling out her "big" gift. It was always a complete surprise. He also always tucked an envelope for each of us (Brad too, once he was in the picture) with some spending cash on the tree. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">There are so many traditions that I want to keep and continue with my family. There are also a lot of new ones to be made, and we got a good start this year! Our favorite was Stone Mountain. They had a TON of lights and decorations, Santa, a Snow Angel, lots of stuff to do, and a special Christmas train ride (our favorite). Several times we piled in the car, hot chocolate in hand, with Christmas tunes on the radio and checked out light displays that we had heard about or remembered from our own childhoods. We also made reindeer food, and cookies for Santa on our new special Santa plate.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We baked a lot, and made fudge. We decorated the house, though there were several decorations (particularly my beloved Rudolph houses) that we chose not to put out because someone (I won't mention a name) likes to sneak off and play with things she shouldn't. I got Emma her own tree this year. She chose purple. She had her own unbreakable ornaments on it to mess with as she pleased. It REALLY helped keep her grubby little hands off of the big tree!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">On Christmas eve we woke up early to go to breakfast with Grandpops for his birthday. Afterwards we all came home and took a nap to prepare for the festivities. We got dressed and headed to the children's mass at church. As I was taking a few photos outside before church, our neighborhood Santa and Mrs. Claus came by on the back of a pickup truck. He drives around and visits the children of the neighborhood on Christmas eve. Emma is NOT a big Santa fan, though she talks a good game. He came over and offered her a candy cane. She decided it MIGHT be worth it, and met him halfway to get the candy. The poor little thing shook like a leaf the whole time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">After he left we went to church. Both girls made it through the whole thing! Emma took one little break to walk around with Daddy, and Abby fell asleep less than halfway through in my arms, but they made it like angels! We had Waffle House for supper (my mom and dad's tradition) and then went to bed early. Mimi and Bailey spent the night and got to be there first thing for Christmas morning.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Abby woke up first, and we had to wake Emma up around 8:45 after I just couldn't wait anymore! They were both so excited! Santa brought Emma an easel and lots of art supplies, a picnic table, 2 Gabba pillow friends to complete her set, a princess castle tent, and a few random toys. Abby got lots of little toys, some bibs, and teethers. She needs them - we think she's cutting her first tooth!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We played a lot and exchanged our own gifts before breakfast. Lunch was not too much later, and then we all took a nap. We got up and ready and went to Brad's parents' house for Christmas dinner. I completely forgot to bring my camera, but will add some pictures once I get a copy. The girls were spoiled ROTTEN this year! We think we may begin an "each of you gets __ gifts" from us next year. It would be different if Santa and mom and dad were the only gift givers, but both grandparents outdo Santa every year!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We had an excellent Christmas and made it through with no tears. It was nice for it to be completely different than every other year. Though my Dad's presence was sorely and noticeably missed, it was nice to have new traditions and new plans so that it was bearable. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We're enjoying our decorations too much to take them down just yet, but I want to get it done before Brad goes back to work. Isn't un-decorating just the worst?</span><br />
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<br /></div>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-13593932375983998232011-12-05T16:44:00.001-08:002011-12-05T16:47:38.691-08:00First Solid Food<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">So it's out of order. Sue me. ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We fed Abby her first solid food (baby oatmeal) when she was about 5 1/2 months old. She wasn't so sure she liked it, but it ended up well! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The faces speak for themselves.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Is it just me, or is she seriously not one of the 2 cutest babies EVER???? </span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-45745045121223708672011-12-05T14:31:00.001-08:002011-12-05T15:23:03.062-08:005 Months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I find it pretty appropriate for Abby's 5 month post to come just after she turns 6 months old. That's symbolic of life these days! There's hardly a second to sit down and write a blog post, much less upload pictures to it. In fact, as I write this, there's a hashbrown casserole in the oven, Brad's putting Abby down for a nap and getting ready to light the grill, and Emma is running around like a crazy person because she woke up from nap to her Daddy home. There is a load of diapers to fold, and at least 2 loads of laundry that are ready to be done. There are dishes in the sink, and I swear that you can't tell I mopped the kitchen floor a few days ago. I swear that if I were able to do 2 loads of laundry a day, I still wouldn't be caught up. It's amazing how much laundry a family of 4 (especially with a very pukey baby) can go through.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So. Miss Abby. She weighed 11lbs 11oz. at her 4 month appointment, so I'm guessing she's near the 12lb mark now. The doctor was very pleased with her weight gain, though she's still in the 5th percentile for weight and 15-25th for height. She's an absolute peanut. Pictures just don't accurately depict her size. She's SO much tinier than Emma ever was. At 6 months, Emma was nearly 17 lbs. We have had to buy several winter outfits because Abby is nowhere near Emma's size during the winter months. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She wears 3 month clothes, or 3-6 months. 6 month pants fit, but the sleeves on shirts are too long, and they are just huge on her. She is in size 1 disposable diapers, and small cloth diapers. She's nearly out of her infant diapers. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She started solids a few weeks ago. So far she really likes prunes, sweet potatoes, and avocado. She eats twice a day right now, but tends to spit up a good bit after her first solid meal of the day. Not sure what that's about.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Speaking of spitting up, wow. She's a puker. The doctor mentioned that most babies outgrow it by 6 months. Yeah. Notsomuch. She spits up less volume than she once did, but still spits up after just about every feeding. It still doesn't seem to bother her, so there's really nothing to be done about it. She goes through a minimum of 2-3 outfits during the day, not including pjs. She also usually goes through 3+ bibs and 3 burp cloths. Wowza.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It's been tough to work on motor skills like sitting up because of her reflux. As soon as she hits anywhere near a 90 degree angle within at least an hour of eating, it all comes back up. I'm a little scared for her to lose too much of her feeds because she's such a tiny little monkey. So, if she's not sitting up right on track, it's my fault. We're really starting to work on it now, even though it always accompanies at least 2 spit ups. She can sit up with just one finger on her thigh to keep her steady. She's getting there!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She adores her sister. She belly laughed for her for the first time last night. She's smiled at her forever, but last night was the first true belly laugh just because of Em. It was precious!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Emma has really wanted to hold her a lot lately. It only lasts for a second or 2, but it's sweet of her to ask! Emma is VERY jealous of Abby touching toys. Not just her toys, ANY toys. I think it comes with the 2 year old territory. We're working on sharing and trading. She's getting there slowly but surely.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's not teething yet, and her drooling is much better, but she wants everything in her mouth. I remember these days with Emma all too well. She gets it in her head that she wants a certain toy in her mouth in a certain way. If it doesn't cooperate, she's PISSED! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We have the Christmas tree up and both girls love it. In fact, Emma has her own tree this year. It's REALLY helping her to keep her hands on her own ornaments, and off of the ones on the big tree. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Abby is still taking 2.5 naps a day. She takes a good nap from 10-11:30 in the morning, and a nap with Emma at 1:00. She also takes a 30-45 minute cat nap around 5:30. Bedtime is between 8-9:00. She sleeps pretty darn good - particularly compared to her sister at this age. She wakes once to eat usually, and often not until 5:00 to eat. She gets up for the day between 8-9:00. It's NICE! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's still swaddled, though I think that's going to be ending here soon. No one can get over how quickly and easily she goes to sleep. You change her diaper, swaddle her, put her in her bed, turn on the fan, and she's out. She occasionally needs you to put the passy back in, or turn on her seahorse soother, but that's it. The child doesn't know what it means to be rocked or nursed to sleep. Love it.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's still a Mama's girl. She will look for me from across the room. She won't often calm down for anyone but Mama. It warms my heart, but makes it tough for me to leave her. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She also apparently still looks just like me. In fact, I had a complete stranger in the mall stop me to tell me that this week! I can totally see it in my baby pictures, but find it funny that so many other people see it now. I will never complain - it's only right that after carrying her for 9 months, she should at least resemble her mama!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She adores to be in the Moby wrap or sling. Particularly on the train at Stone Mountain. We broke down and got Mountain Membership passes - endless train rides! Abby and Emma both adore it, though I'm not sure Abby has ever stayed awake for more than 5 minutes of it! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Well, that's about it for 5 months. She'll be meeting Santa next weekend for the first time and I can't wait! Hope her sister makes it.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-36233524511363905272011-11-04T12:15:00.000-07:002011-11-04T12:15:06.435-07:00Stone Mountain<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We have discovered the Stone Mountain love. As I kid, I think I may have gone once or twice. I had never even seen the Laser Show until I met Brad. I was neglected as a child, as you can see. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We decided to get an annual pass because we live so close and we are always looking for something fun to do on weekends. I can really see us going back a lot! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We rode the train when we first got there - Emma LOVED it! If it weren't $20 for us to ride it, I would say we'd do it a lot. Maybe only on special occasions. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We went back the following weekend for the last laser show of the season. It was so fun! Emma loved running around like a crazy person before the show started. She watched the show and LOVED the fireworks. Unfortunately, it was past Abby's bedtime and she was less than happy with the situation. She stayed in the Moby Wrap and was fairly quiet though.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Goofballs.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />We can't wait for the Christmas season to start and then for the laser show again in the Spring. In the meantime, we can do lots of walking, playing in the playground, and having picnics.</span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-34757833394765065272011-11-04T11:58:00.000-07:002011-11-04T11:58:19.271-07:00Babywearing<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I've been getting a lot of questions lately about different types of babywearing, so I thought I'd do a blog post about my favorite carriers.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">If you've read this blog for awhile, you may have noticed that I have lots. I love wearing my babies and they do too. It's rare that I will put Abby (or Emma when she was smaller) in a carrier and have her be awake 15 minutes later. It's so relaxing for the baby, as they are right up next to you and can hear your heartbeat. It's incredibly beneficial for newborns as well. When they are in a carrier, it is the closest they can get to feeling like they're still in the womb. Feeling your movement and hearing your voice in your chest are so soothing for a tiny baby. In fact, many moms find that wearing their baby reduces colic and fussiness. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">There are several types of carriers, and I only have a few of them. I have a ring sling, a Moby Wrap, a Sleepy Wrap, and several "slings."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I have only recently discovered a love for my ring sling, so there aren't many pictures of me using it. I never could get comfortable with it when Emma was small, so I was determined to try it again. I discovered that YouTube has TONS of how-to videos for every type of carrier imaginable. I watched a few short videos, discovered some easy tips, and then was able to master using it with Abby. She loves it! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">While I like the ring sling, it still isn't my favorite. It is a little finicky and not the best for a beginner. My absolute favorite is just a plain sling. My favorite brand is <a href="http://www.thepeanutshell.com/Products/Baby-Slings" target="_blank">Peanut Shell</a>, and I have 2 or 3 from there. I've always managed to find them on sale on their outlet website, and never pay more than $20 for one. In fact, there's a microfleece one that's identical to one I have for $19.99 right now! I'm a bargain shopper! They are the easiest to throw in a diaper bag, and the quickest to throw on and put a baby in. I always have one in my diaper bag. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I have a few that are just pretty and thin, and 2 that are for cooler weather. They all get plenty of use! I love to use these at the grocery store or when out shopping. I can throw it on, put Abby in it, and have my hands free to get Emma out and into the shopping cart.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As you can see, you can use it with a newborn or sleeping baby, or turn the baby around to use it with an older baby. You can also use it to hip-carry, which I don't have a picture of. You get the idea.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">While they are "hands free" they aren't the most comfortable for long periods of time. Because they go over 1 shoulder, they don't really balance the baby's weight equally over your upper body. You can get a touch sore after more than an hour in it. Also, you really don't have a whole lot of use of both arms, as one arm is right near the baby's head. That's where a Moby Wrap is awesome.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My other favorite carrier is a Moby Wrap. I also have a Sleepy Wrap. The only difference that I've found is that the Sleepy Wrap is made of a slightly thicker material. These are 1 size tie-on carriers. It is basically one really long piece of fabric that is tapered on the ends, or "tails." The only reason that these are't the only carriers I use, is because they take a minute to put on. Because the tails are so long, they often drape on the ground when I'm putting it on. I wouldn't want to do this in a parking lot, for example. However, when we go somewhere that requires a lot of walking and it's near a nap time, I put it on at home, and then just wear it in the car. When we get to our destination, I can just put Abby in it and go.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">These are also the BEST for newborns. They hold the baby firmly, and the baby is free to curl their little legs up, froggy-style, in it. I also love it because it keeps germs away from the baby because their faces are nearly covered. I used this a lot when Abby and Emma were really little and we'd go out. It's also great for colicky babies around the house. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">One of my favorite things about the Moby is that you can cover up their heads when they fall asleep. As you can see in a lot of these pictures, Abby has fallen asleep, and the Moby keeps her head comfortably supported. It also has the added benefit of body heat. We used it at the Stone Mountain Laser Show last weekend, and she and I were both toasty, even though it was around 40 degrees!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I hope this has helped to answer any questions you may have had about babywearing. I'm not an expert, but I've used one quite often through the past 2 and a half years with 2 babies. Feel free to ask me any questions you might have! I love to talk "baby" if you couldn't tell. ;)</span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-88685873018246722052011-11-04T11:21:00.000-07:002011-11-04T11:21:53.709-07:00Zoo Atlanta<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm a little late in posting about this, but better late than never. Right? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We went with Mimi to Zoo Atlanta a few weeks ago before it got too cool. The weather was perfect and we went right when they opened, so it wasn't very busy. We had a blast!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Emma loves animals, but apparently not up close right now. She tended to scream in terror whenever we saw one. And not just big things like elephants. Goats were almost as scary as elephants to Miss Em. She's a nut.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We had fun anyway though, and ended up the trip with a ride on the train. It was the girls' first train ride! Pardon the picture of us on the train. Brad was the photographer for the trip, and was a touch too lazy to move AROUND the pole to take the picture, so I ended up with 6 pictures of a metal pole through my head. On top of that, they were all blurry, even though we were holding still at the time. Goofball.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-3804599544635949382011-10-26T11:19:00.000-07:002011-10-26T11:19:16.253-07:004 Months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Abby is almost 5 months old now. I'm still confused as to how to count the months exactly because she was born on the 31st, but there aren't 31 days in each month. Confusing. Anyway, she's growing up way too fast! It's a recurring theme with my 2 little monkeys. Also a recurring theme: me, almost missing the month entirely before I do a photo shoot and a post!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Here is some info on Abby at 4 months:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's a peanut. She weighs 11lbs and is about 23 inches long. That's about the 5th% for weight and 15-25th% for height. She's very petite! As a comparison, at her 4 month check-up, Emma weighed 14lbs, 6oz, and was 24 5/8 inches long!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She dropped a percentile on weight this month, but the doctor is not concerned. She's still spitting up quite a bit, and there's not much that can be done about it. Medication for reflux just reduces the acid in the tummy, causing less burning with reflux. Abby doesn't have any pain, because she just spits up breastmilk immediately following eating, before it's been digested. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I think I've had a bit of a "milk supply" issue lately. She, like her sister did, fusses and acts really rotten when she gets ready for bed. She had been really frustrated when nursing for the last time before bed. I've been upping my water intake SUBSTANTIALLY, and taking some herbal supplements. I think it's helped quite a bit. We discussed starting rice cereal (actually, we're going to do oatmeal because the rice made Emma SO constipated. TMI?). The pediatrician recommends waiting until closer to 6 months to start, and I'm in no hurry. Starting too early has been shown to lead to food allergies and obesity, so they recommend waiting. Being a peanut is just fine with me!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She can roll from her back to her tummy, and has rolled tummy to back once, but I think it was an accident!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She adores her big sister. She's not completely trusting of her (with good reason!) because she tends to be on high alert when Emma's around! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She smiles the biggest smiles and laughs for Daddy when he gets home.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Her Aunt Nancy got some serious belly laughs last night! We're not sure what exactly she thought was so funny, but she CRACKED up! She's pretty stingy with those belly laughs, so it was really awesome.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's a mama's girl. No doubt about it. I tend to be the only one to calm her down when she's really fussy. She also still looks just like her mama, or so I'm told. I can't complain. ;)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She had been losing some of her hair in the back, but it's coming in again! Emma was bald for so long, that I'm not used to having a baby with a little hair! It's just about the same color as mine. That cracks me up because, as a baby, my hair was exactly Emma's color. In fact, we have a lock of my hair from my first haircut and it looks like it came off of Emma's head. It didn't darken up until much later. Abby's is starting out so dark, I wonder what will happen?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She wears 0-3 and 3 month clothes. She has some 3-6 month clothes, but they're still a bit big. I had hoped to be able to share all of their clothes because Abby was due 4 days before Emma's birthday. No such luck. Emma was a chunk, and Abby is petite and came 3 weeks ahead of schedule! I pulled out 3 rubbermaid boxes this morning and sorted clothes. Luckily, Emma had a few 6 month and 6-9 winter clothes, though most are 9 month. I think she'll be wearing some bigger clothes with the legs and sleeves rolled up! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She is still a good sleeper. She takes 2 big naps a day, and 1 short one around 5:30. She goes into the crib awake, and falls asleep on her own. She sleeps from 8:30PM-8:30AM most days, waking once to eat. Sometimes that one time is around 7:00, so I can't complain! She's had a few nights lately where she's woken twice to eat, but she's been catching our cold, so I can't blame her.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Speaking of colds, Abby has her first. It seems to be a much weaker version of what Emma and I had. She is a little sneezy and sounds snotty, but only has to have her nose wiped just after she wakes up. She ran a low-grade fever at one point, but Tylenol worked it's magic.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's been a busy body lately. She tries to sit up if you lay her down, even to change her diaper! She also is too interested in what's going on around her to nurse very efficiently lately. She's been doing her best eating in the middle of the night. Emma was the same way!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">See her trying to sit up?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She wears XS diaper covers still. To put this into perspective, we really began cloth diapering Emma at 4 months. She went straight into a medium. Abby swims in a small!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She had her first trip to the zoo a few weekends ago (also her first train ride!). We had a ball. I'll do a post on it very soon. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She also took her first trip to Stone Mountain. It was Emma's first as well. We rode the train and walked around. Can't wait to take them to a laser show!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She loves her swing, but I worry that she spends too much time in it. She is in there while we eat every meal. She doesn't seem to mind, and I have a hard time tending to her wild sister during meals, much less eating myself. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She loves having her hands in her mouth. We have to physically fight her to get them out and put the passy in. When her hands go in, puke comes out, so we tend to stick with the passy. Also, as I tell her all the time, I can't cut her hands off when she turns 2, but I CAN take the passy away!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's my precious little angel. Having been through it with Emma, I know that this is my favorite age. She's happy nearly all of the time, giving us big gummy grins constantly. She's a snuggle-bug and adores being held. She also likes to spend time playing on the floor with her toys and play gym - the best of both worlds!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I can't believe it's nearly Halloween. A lot of people have asked about costumes. Emma is going to be Olivia the pig. Abby has a Halloween shirt that says "I love my mummy" and will be along for the ride!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-64865604419706903182011-10-05T19:41:00.000-07:002011-10-05T19:43:19.276-07:00A Fat Lip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">Well, she finally did it. Emma earned herself an emergency trip to the doctor's office. We were going to head straight to the ER, but the doctor's office said that we could come by there first and get their opinion, so we did. Emma must like to make sure my heart rate stays nice and high. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">What happened? Let me explain.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">We had just finished breakfast. Emma had eaten and was playing in the living room like she does every day. I had just put Abby down for her morning nap and came back to the kitchen to wash some dishes. We do this every single morning. Emma plays like an angel, I clean up the kitchen, and then we play together until Abby gets up. Not today. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">Today I had just put away the clean dishes and was re-loading the dishwasher when I heard a bump and Emma screaming bloody murder. I went running and picked her up. She looked fine, but shaken. I took her into the kitchen and sat her on the counter to get a better look (and turn off the water). Blood. Everywhere. I thought she knocked out a tooth, but upon inspection, noticed a hole clear through her bottom lip. Well, technically it's just below her lip, but above her chin. I PANICKED.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">I carefully cleaned up her face with a warm washcloth and got her a Popsicle. We were both still in our pajamas, so I carried her, Popsicle and all, to our bed. I made phone call after phone call while my hands were shaking uncontrollably, getting myself and Emma dressed in the process. First person I called? My MAMA! I knew she could get here before anyone else. Then I called Brad's mom. She was on her way. Then I tried Brad. He was the farthest one out. No answer. Shit. I frantically searched my phone for his school phone number. Called and got the secretary. I told her who I was and that we were about to head to the ER with my daughter and couldn't get in touch with Brad. She radioed him and had him call me. He was on his way as soon as he could pass his class off to another teacher.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">I called the doctor's office and they said we could come there first if we wanted to. I would rather do ANYTHING than get Emma stitches OR deal with the ER, so I took them up on it. My mom got here first, and then Brad's mom. Abby was still napping so I gave Brad's mom a few instructions and some disposable diapers. By the grace of God, I had 2 ounces of pumped milk (the results of 2 miserable and fruitless pumping sessions) in the fridge. This is the first time since Abby was born that I have really pumped, and had been trying to get enough to freeze in case we ever had an emergency. How lucky was that?? Any other day and we'd be searching the house for formula samples.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">So Mom and Emma and I left and Brad's mom stayed with Abby. Brad beat us to the doctor's office. We sat in the waiting room for a few minutes before heading back to see the nurse practitioner. She took a look, cleaned it up a bit, and recommended a stitch or 2. It had stopped bleeding within minutes of her cutting it, but the doctor said it's for "cosmetic reasons" that they recommend stitches. Anytime that it's outside of the lip line, they recommend them. I very politely asked her if we had any choice. She consulted with another doctor, and told us she'd be fine, but to keep Neosporin on it and watch for infection, which wasn't likely. YAY! We left like bats out of hell! I just wanted my babies.in.my.arms. My nerves were shot, as were all of ours.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">We got back to our house and Brad's Dad was here. It meant the world to me that he came by. Seriously. My family is awesome. Have I mentioned that? They love us, and my girls SO much, and it's mutual. The fact that all 3 of them left work and flew straight to our house the minute I called, is just awesome. We couldn't have asked for better grandparents for these girls. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"> Emma got the ice cream I promised her, and Brad brought home her favorite - pillow chicken (Chick-Fil-A). She ate, I very carefully wiped her mouth, and put Neosporin on it, and w</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">e all had a much-needed family nap-time. We got up and Brad took Emma to pick up a school order of clay at a local shop, and I fed Abby. When they got back we headed to Mom's for dinner. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">Emma has been an angel. She only cried for a minute once it happened, and only for a second or 2 while the doctor looked at it. I'm so impressed with her. She's awesome. AND big! Did I mention that she went from 25lbs in early July, to 28lbs today? And here I was getting concerned that she's not eating quite as much as she used to. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">I bought some Mederma to use once her lip heals to help reduce scarring. It's really not that bad, but I'd hate to think that my choice to avoid a traumatic hospital experience would cause a scar she'd hate me for forever. Praying that doesn't happen. If it doesn't disappear, maybe she'll be proud of it and consider it a battle scar that adds character, though I'm not sure that little girl could stand one more ounce of character! One day, when she has her own babies, she'll understand. Until then, she can have ANYTHING SHE WANTS!!!!! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">I'll leave you with a funny. This is what she did while I nursed Abby last night. She's a nut.</span><br />
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Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-84969351326549113812011-09-30T11:24:00.000-07:002011-09-30T11:39:00.153-07:00Emma Claire<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I've been meaning to do a post just about my sweet EC, but I just haven't sat down and done it. I want to make sure to remember all of the hysterical things she says, and know that she she says so many that I'll end up forgetting some. This girl talks a mile a minute these days and she never fails to crack me up. So here goes.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The other day, Abby stayed with Mimi while we went "chopping" at Target. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She LOVES to cook in her pretend kitchen. She'll bring me a cup and say "here, lemonade." She'll take a pretend drink of hers and say "deeeeee-licious."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She was in time-out in the hallway the other day. She was crying and fussing (mostly pretending) and then I heard her instantly stop crying and say "heeeeere Sissy! Come here, Sissy. Whatcha doin, Sissy? Wanna play?" Sissy is the cat, in case you don't know.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">When we pass Citgo she says "Look mom! Triangle!"</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She adores Chick-Fil-A. Only she doesn't call it Chick-Fil-A. She calls it "pillow chicken." We're not exactly sure why, but she can spot the sign a mile away. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She loves eating shabeggy (spaghetti), blockly (broccoli), and hummus (thomas). She also likes spigots......biscuits! She also recently had boiled okra (YUCK!) for the first time with Mimi and loved it.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Mom and Bailey were over the other day and Bailey was sitting in such a way that Emma couldn't get between he and I to walk through. She started shouting "OPEN!" You know, like it was a door.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She loves bathtime and watching the "vortex" after the tub drains.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She adores watching kids shows on Netflix during breakfast. She makes sure to tell me "it's loading" and "it's thinking" if it takes a second to start.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">If she hears an airplane she says "leeeeeesten! Hear it?"</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Just before she goes to bed she says "I stay in bed?" She's heard it enough!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Sometimes after she is supposed to be asleep, Brad or I will hear her pushing the grilling buttons on her kitchen. I'll ask him what he wants to order since she's apparently up late working her second job as a fry cook.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She still adores Yo Gabba Gabba and can do a lot of the dances on the show. She particularly loves the "Twirly Lurly" (Twirly Whirly) and the "Chomp, Chomp, Chippy, Chippy, Chomp" (an alligator dance).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She has started to sing along with me when I sing, instead of finishing lines. She loves to sing "I love Jesus" (Jesus Loves Me), and "This little light of mine." She also knows most of the words to Copa Cabana (I know, I'm strange). If I sing "Her name was Emma," she follows up with "she was a showgirl" and continues from there. She can sing every single word of "Daisy, Daisy, Give me your answer do."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's a huge climber these days. She climbs on the side table in the living room on a daily basis and the other day she disappeared from her bedroom where all 4 of us had been playing. Brad found her sitting in the center of our kitchen table, eating goldfish.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She mostly calls Brad "Dad." If he's not answering her when she calls him the first time, she changes it up. He's called "Pappy", "Papps", "Chacho", and "Brad" most everyday.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She has an awesome sense of humor. She calls Lucy "Loose Goose" and Abby is "Abbs Abbs", "Abby Gwail" or "Abby the Gwail." I can't blame her, I rarely call either one of them by their actual names.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Speaking of nicknames, Emma has several. Emmanems, Nemmers, Nem, Eeema Neeema, Neem. She will answer to any of them. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She often refers to herself as Emma Claire. She'll be climbing on the table to get my attention. When I ignore her, she says "What are you DOING Emma Claire?!"</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She loves to watch "Mickey Mouse Cluh-house."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Instead of saying "can I help you?" she says "you help me?" And instead of "I want some" she says "You want some?"</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She can count to 14. After that, it just gets funny!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm sure there are a million more, but those are the ones that immediately come to mind.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-58669999040878335942011-09-27T08:09:00.000-07:002011-09-27T08:09:58.366-07:003 Months<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
I can hardly believe that my littlest monkey will be 4 months old so soon. I guess it's time that I did her 3 month update, huh? I'm such a bad blogger now that Abby is here. I have NO spare time these days, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I spend my "spare time" kissing and loving on the 2 sweetest girls in the world.</div>
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<i><u>All About Abby:</u></i></div>
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She's somewhere around 11-12 lbs the best I can tell. I scheduled her 4 month appointment today, so I'll know her stats soon enough. I'm dreading that appointment - more shots. </div>
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Speaking of shots, I'm pretty much following the same vaccine schedule that I did with Emma. I'm delaying the chicken pox vaccine, and waiting to do the MMR until she's 2. It works for us, and I'm comfortable with it, as is my doctor. </div>
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Abby is growing SO fast! She loves to stand up, but only wants to be in a sitting position for limited amounts of time. She still loves her swing and sits in it while we eat.</div>
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She is learning to reach and grab toys. She has reached for her beads on her changing table for a LONG time, but we're working on grabbing toys. She's TERRIFIED of rattles. No clue why!</div>
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She loves to just lay on a blanket and play and be talked to. It's her favorite thing.</div>
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She tolerates tummy time, but doesn't have much patience for it. She rolled over from tummy to back this month, but hasn't done it again. She sort of scared herself when she did it!</div>
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She cracks up when we jiggle her around. She likes to be messed with!</div>
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She gives her Daddy the biggest smiles when he gets home from work.</div>
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She's a mama's girl. Big time. She will let most people hold her for a minute, but not much longer. My mom is just about the only exception to that rule. And she usually only calms down for Mama.</div>
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She wears 3 month or 0-3 month clothes. 3-6 are too big still. I had to buy several outfits recently for her to wear when it gets cold. All of Emma's winter clothes are 9 months. My guess is that Abby MIGHT be into 6 month clothes by then! She's such a peanut!</div>
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She is still spitting up, but not nearly as much. </div>
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She's a great sleeper, with only a few weird occasions of waking up. She takes 3 naps a day and sleeps from 8:00 until 8-9:00 AM. She only wakes up once to eat during that span. It's awesome!</div>
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She has started to hate the car, just like her sister. She's significantly better than Emma was at this age though. She only cries if she's sleepy. Unfortunately, that means that if we stay anywhere past about 6:30, she's going to scream all the way home. We've even tried driving with me sitting in the back, squeezed between the 2 carseats. She still screams.</div>
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2 Months - 3 Months </div>
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She has the tiniest ankles ever. I still can't get socks to stay on the poor thing. Check out the picture of her ankles vs. Emma's at the same age. Explains a lot!</div>
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I still can't believe what a chunk Emma was compared to Abby. Or how different they look! Abby is all mama, while Emma was mostly Brad. Right now, Emma's more me when I was her age. It's so funny how they change back and forth!</div>
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She fits into our little family so well! She's just perfect.</div>
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Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-74750381969508846402011-09-07T12:00:00.000-07:002011-09-07T12:00:43.355-07:00Angels<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Since my Dad died, I have had some serious internal questioning going on. I've always believed in heaven, God, life eternal. I still do believe in all of those things. I always assumed that if someone as close to me as my Dad passed away, I'd feel some sort of presence. Shortly after he died I searched everywhere for him. I found him in the red cardinal that suddenly decided that the best place to be while Emma and I were eating breakfast was right outside our kitchen window, staring in at us through the whole meal. I saw him in the bluebird that perched on my mom's fence, sitting there while we talked about Dad, day after day. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Since a little time has passed, I'm still looking, but finding nothing. I don't feel his presence anywhere. I see him in Abby. GOD, do I ever. Sometimes it's as though he's the one looking back at me from behind her eyes. That's truly the only place. It's pretty devastating. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I said all of that, to tell you about this. I think he may come visit Emma. And no, I'm not crazy. There have been SO many times that she's said things about him out of the blue. At the exact moment he died, my sister-in-law told me that Emma started saying "Papa? Papa?" At the time, that was what she called him. Since then, I've referred to him as "Grandpa." Each night we pray for our family members by name. We always pray for "Grandpa, in heaven with Jesus" (or "Stegis" as Emma used to say!). She calls Brad's Dad "Grandpops," so it's not him that she's talking about. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">A few weeks ago we were eating dinner at my mom's house. Emma reached up and grabbed her head and scrunched her hair, just like Dad used to do to her. She stared off into space while she did it and said "Grandpa!" It was like she was seeing him. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">A couple of weeks ago I decided, out of the blue, to get Emma her first big ice cream cone. I wanted to do something my Dad loved to do - give a toddler a huge ice cream cone and let them make a huge mess. It's SO not my style, but I knew it was something my Dad would have already seen to that we do. So we did. On the way to the ice cream place, Emma looked out the window and said, "Hi Grandpa. I see you Grandpa. Whatcha doin, Grandpa?" She speaks very clearly, and those were her exact words. It took my breath away and I didn't even know what to say. I've since thought that I should have asked her questions, and I WILL next time. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I know that she remembers my Dad, even though it's been several months since she last saw him. I've got a few pictures on the fridge, and have a necklace with his picture on it. She always says "Grandpa!" when she sees them. She also says "grandpa" when she sees pictures of men with gray hair and glasses that resemble my Dad. I wish I could find the words that her little mind could wrap her head around to explain. I just can't. I want to take her with me to the cemetery, but don't think it's the time. I know she'll ask questions that I don't know how to answer. I'm sure I'll know when the time is right. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I wish more than anything that he could see my girls right now. He loved Emma more than anything in this world and would be so thrilled with how smart she is. He would adore snuggling with Abby's sweet self. I guess he IS seeing them right now, even though I struggle with the faith that he's still somewhere watching. I hope and pray that I'll find him somewhere again, and that my faith will be restored. I just wish I didn't have to wait until I make it to heaven for that to happen. It's hard to accept the finality of death, and that I have no control over what God has planned. This grasping for his presence won't make it happen. I guess that's what faith is, huh?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It reminds me so much of one of my favorite Jars of Clay songs. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><b>"Like A Child"</b><br /><br />Dear God, surround me as I speak,<br />the bridges that I walk across are weak<br />Frustrations fill the void that I can't solely bear<br />Dear God, don't let me fall apart,<br />you've held me close to you<br />I have turned away and searched for answers I can't understand<br /><br /><i>[Chorus:]</i><br /><br />They say that I can move the mountains<br />And send them crashing into the sea<br />They say that I can walk on water<br />If I would follow and believe<br />with faith like a child<br /><br />Sometimes, when I feel miles away<br />and my eyes can't see your face<br />I wonder if I've grown to lose the recklessness<br />I walked in light of you<br /><br /><i>[Chorus]</i><br /><br /><i>[Little girl:]</i><br />"I've got joy like a fountain!"<br />"Be kind one to others"<br />"In Jesus Christ Your son"<br /><br />They say that love can heal the broken<br />They say that hope can make you see<br />They say that faith can find a Savior<br />If you would follow and believe<br />with faith like a child </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-23539682525340181592011-09-07T11:39:00.000-07:002011-09-07T11:39:24.767-07:00The Cemetery<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Many of you probably don't know about the runaround that my mom and I have been given at the cemetery. They purchased their mausoleum plots many years back, and all of the things involved with internment were paid for. That includes the grave marker. My mom and I had to go to the cemetery office 2 days after my Dad's funeral to design the marker. It was really painful, and the last place we wanted to be, both physically and emotionally. But we did it. The creepy guy in charge of working with us was, well.....creepy. And not in a "I work at a cemetery and only wear black suits" kind of creepy. In a "I like to play with the bodies when no one is looking" kind of creepy. I don't know of any other way to describe it! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Anyway, fast forward at least 2 months. We still hadn't heard from him regarding when the marker would be placed. I had been to the cemetery to check a couple of times. It was hideously painful. Not only was the wound on my heart very fresh, but to see him buried in an unmarked grave was just gut wrenching. I burst into tears every time I went. I had finally had enough. I wrote a letter, describing the experience we had had with the creepy dude and emailed it to their office. The manager called me the following day and I put him in contact with my mom. A new guy (much less creepy) was assigned to us and the marker was designed, proofs sent to my mom for approval, ordered, and installed. And here it is. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I think it's perfect. Dad would be so proud. The only thing missing was flowers. I took care of that this Sunday while my girls and their Daddy napped. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">What do you think? I was going for "Fall, pretty, yet masculine."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Do you know what? In the few times that I've been back since it was installed, I feel such a sense of peace. It's no longer a painful place that I dread going to. It's a place where I can talk to my Dad, be alone, and feel a little bit of closeness. It's amazing the difference that a grave marker and some flowers can do.</span>Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8769402267038265718.post-15953584752143212562011-09-07T11:23:00.000-07:002011-09-07T11:23:22.009-07:00Abby's Baptism<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This past Saturday we had the honor of having Abigail Marie baptized in our church. It was a wonderful day full of family and friends and we were so blessed to have them all there with us. Abby was an absolute angel. She didn't mind the big, uncomfy dress too much. She wore Brad's christening gown, my grandmother's cross necklace, and on the necklace, she wore a baby ring that Brad's mother had made from one of her rings. My mom also gave her a special bib that was blessed by Pope Benedict. It was so special to have all sides of her family represented. </span><div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It was a very emotional day for me. The last time that we attended a baptism at Holy Cross, it was Emma's. My Dad was there with us, as was Brad's Grandaddy. My Dad's absence was so painful for me. It was never more obvious that when the deacon traced the sign of the cross on Abby's forehead, and invited all who felt compelled to do the same. My Dad should have been right there. It hurt more than words can possibly express. I miss him daily, but there are certain moments when it sneaks up on me and hits me like a bus. That whole day was filled with those moments. He would have ADORED Abby, just as he adored Em. He would love to hear all of the crazy things Emma says these days. He would have cracked up when, as the Deacon was about to pour water over Abby's head, Emma shouted "Abby takin a bath!" He would have thought it was hysterical when she completed the sign of the cross with the Deacon. "Father, Son, and Holy Spiwit." Precious.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We were so blessed that Brad's Aunt Elaine and Uncle George honored us by becoming Abby's godparents. She adores them already! They drove all the way from the southern tip of Florida to be with us, and it meant the world. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">After the baptism we headed home to celebrate with cake and punch. There's a funny story behind the cake. I have bad luck at Publix with baptism cakes. Emma's had to be completely remade on the morning of her baptism because they made it orange instead of pink. It was SO ugly! Well, I went to pick up Abby's and noticed that it read "God Bless AbiGALI Marie." I just about died. Had it said Emma's nickname for her, "Abigwail," I would have let it go. But Abigali had to go. They were able to remove the wrong letters and fix it, but you could still tell. I think I've learned my lesson with Publix. It sure did taste good though!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">After most of our guests had left, Amber, Jason, and their daughter, Quinn, stayed and we got to visit. We don't see them nearly often enough. We had Mexican for dinner and they left just before the girls went to bed. It was an awesome day that we will never forget. </span></div>
Susan Gilchristhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294885876413860373noreply@blogger.com0