What a Week!

This week has been both chaotic and crazy, although it has not been bad overall. I expected the chaos and crazy, given that it was the first week for the kids to report to school. I waltzed in Monday morning with a room that was not finished--had books all over the place--and lesson plans that were not submitted. I was missing my baby girl but ready to see all of the new 6th grade faces that would occupy my classroom for the next 10 months. Although my room was not ready, surprisingly I was. I managed through the chaos of that morning, played some games with my kids, and got all of the first day procedures required by the state finished with very little time to spare. Then, I rushed over to Carrie's to pick up my girl. I'n so lucky to have Carrie around. I honestly don't know what I'd do without her. It is a great feeling knowing that I don't have to worry about Keely being 100% taken care of by the person keeping her. Nevertheless, I am so ready to see my girl at the end of the day! I leave school just as soon as I can possibly get away and speed on my way to Aunt Pete's. Seeing that girl after a day of work is the best part of my day. Needless to say, it's been a chaotic and crazy week, but it's been a good one, too.

Keely has started watching TV! This little monkey watches Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Dora the Explorer, and the Baby Einstein videos. It is one of the cutest things ever! She was watching Baby Beethoven up until a few minutes ago when she started fussing. I'd look over at her, and she would talk to the TV. So cute! It is hard to believe 2 months has come and almost gone. She's getting so big! I almost already want another one! But, that will have to wait until Keely's had her fair share of alone time with Mama and Daddy. I think she deserves that. She's trying to sit up now. I mean, unsuccessfully, of course. But, I had her propped up on her Boppy the other day, and she started trying to lean forward towards me. What a big girl! She's holding her head up really, really well, and she laughs and coos constantly. She's one of those babies that people say was born talking. She's definitely a Mama's girl. She's still nursing, which means that I get to pump twice at work. Yay (sarcastically). But, she's completely worth it. I'd do anything for that sweet baby girl! Speaking of, here is the first of two slideshows I am posting today. These pics were taken on August 11, 2009 at JC Penny.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

This next slide show is a conglomeration of pictures from the past 2 or 3 weeks. Isn't she just adorable?!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Have a good week. God bless!

2 Months

Today marks the two-month anniversary of Keely's birth. Happy two-month birthday, baby girl! Because of this anniversary, I thought I would offer some reflections and highlights of the past two months. Here we go.

Reflection #1: Being parents has completely changed mine and Carl's lives. We tend to get frustrated with each other a little more often, but we have this closeness that doesn't shift despite our constant picking at each other. We've always had a close relationship, but it's different now that Keely has entered into our family. I think those of you with kids understand what I am trying to communicate to you. In short, Carl and I absolutely love being Dad and Mom.
Reflection #2: Even though we had all of those fertility issues, we wouldn't change anything about the past two years. I think those complications helped us to prepare for parenthood. Carl and I were able to focus on our relationship and long-term goals during those difficult years. We did not appreciate them while they were happening, but we've both come to appreciate them now. If we had conceived prior to when we did, we might not have ended up with beautiful Keely. No, we wouldn't change them. We certainly hope it is easier the next time around, though. And, I have a feeling it will be.
Reflection #3: Being a parent is hard. We didn't think it would be easy, honest. We knew it would be hard, but we've still had a few reality checks over the past two months. With Keely's thyroid problem, reflux, and milk protein allergy, we've definitely had our fair share of difficulty. Keely is still perfect. We would not wish any of those complications upon her by any means, but we can work with them (and hopefully through them eventually).
Reflection #4: The things we thought were so important prior to Keely's birth seem to take a backseat to her now. I guess that's part of being a parent. I hate to think not all parents feel the same way about their kids. For us it goes, God, family, then friends.

Highlights:
1) watching Keely sleep
2) listening to Keely laugh
3) hearing Keely say what sounds like Mama when she's upset
4) showing Keely off to everyone
5) knowing that she is ours
6) praying for Keely
7) napping with Keely
8) Keely's first vacation
9) shopping for/with Keely
10) Keely's first play date
11) evening walks with Keely
12) hugging and kissing Keely
13) making Keely smile
14) talking to Keely
15) getting through bath time without Keely screaming
16) nursing Keely
17) being able to check Above Average on the doctor's form when asked to compare her to other kids her same age
18) taking pics of Keely
19) watching Carl play with Keely
20) imagining how wonderful Keely will turn out

Another Smile Box to Show Off Our Girl

Make a Smilebox slideshow

These pics are all from the past 3 three weeks. Most of them are from the past 2 weeks. Keely is 8 weeks old today. I cannot beleive she is already that old! I cannot believe summer is drawing to a close already either. I report back to work on Wednesday, and I am already planning to be dramatic the first day I have to leave Keely with my sister. Thank goodness for Carrie, though. I don't know what I would do without her! Nonetheless, I really don't want to leave my sweet girl. I cannot imagine my mornings without getting to watch her sleep and cuddling with her. So, I am naturally holding her all day long almost, thinking I should savor every last second with her. No one ever said I wasn't dramatic. Anyway, while I am looking forward to meeting all the new faces and getting to teach again, I am not looking forward to leaving Keely. It will be hard. So, say a prayer for me that I will do better than I suspect I will. Say a prayer for my sister because I'm not sure she knows what she's getting into. She'll have her 3 kids and my 1 kid until school starts and Ally reports to kindergarten. Two more things, and I'll draw to a close. First, Keely actually made it through bath time without a single cry! Last night marked the first time we didn't hear wailing and screaming while being bathed! We were both shocked! And, very, very proud. Last thing, we got the lab results from Keely's endocrinologist, and her thyroid medication is fulfilling it's duty. No need to up her dosage at this point--YAY! Have a fabulous week, all!