Doodlebug's a Little Ladybug

Tongue Twister

2010-09-26T08:11:00.002-05:00

For Ladybug, it's not pRobably but pLobably. However, it is BLOCKS BUCKET when I said Blocks Blucket by mistake.

I'm Not Ready for This

2010-08-14T18:07:00.002-05:00

Darren and I have been exploring the idea of transitioning Emma out of her crib. We've looked at toddler beds, twin beds, mattresses, etc. Emma was intrigued in the stores but not overly excited.

Emma seems to love her crib. She doesn't try to climb out, never has. While at home, she only sleeps in her crib, never naps anywhere else, and just seems to feel so secure. So we have not been in a hurry. And well, let's face it. I'm just not ready.

Well, today we found the mattress set. We (Darren and I) decided let's just put the mattress on the floor next to her crib to let her get used to the idea. And well, let's face it. I'm just not ready.

Emma has proceeded to take all blankets out of her crib and lay them across her new bed. She's ecstatic and excited. And well, let's face it. I'm just not ready.

I'm hoping to leave her crib one more night. Maybe get one last picture of her nursery before we dismantle. And well, let's face it. I'm just not ready.

I've had these visions of what her room would look like, whether it would be a cartoon character, or polka dots, or something really girly. I haven't decided. I'm not prepared. And well, let's face it. I'm just not ready.

I bought two bedding sets today because I couldn't decide. And well, let's face it. I'm just not ready.

I'm still not thrilled with either. It's just not right. It's not what I envisioned. And well, let's face it. I'm just not ready.

My little ladybug is no longer little. And well, let's face it. I'm just not ready!

Emma - ISM's

2010-04-07T20:22:00.002-05:00

Lell Lo - Yellow

Che Be - HEB

Chep Up - Ketchup

Lobby Lobby - Hobby Lobby

Blutterly - Butterfly

Bug Bug - Ladybug

More to come...I'm sure.

Fruits of our Labor

2009-12-02T21:46:00.007-06:00

Yes, they are all wrapped. The purple and blue presents are birthday gifts. :)

Black Friday

2009-12-02T21:31:00.003-06:00

Each year NaNa and I tackle Black Friday, literally. After we plan, we shop. And shop. And shop. And shop.

Good news, thanks to Swagbucks and Mypoints, Christmas presents are not only bought, the list is complete, and everything is paid for with gift cards I earned. It's lovely!

However, this is what we came home to after a busy morning shopping.

Both were asleep.

And it made the whole morning totally worth it!

Lions, and Tigers, and Bears, OH MY!

2009-10-10T21:16:00.001-05:00

We went to the beautiful Houston Zoo.

We saw this.

And I took a picture of the Daddy and Ladybug in front of the elephants.

But most of the time I was watching this.

Because Ladybug was doing this.

All around the zoo.

Gentoo Penguin

2009-08-28T21:29:00.000-05:00

PoPo and Gamma came for a visit.

They took us to the Aquarium at Moody Gardens.

I don't know who was more excited, Daddy or Ladybug?
Emma is the exact size of a Gentoo Penguin.
Family portrait time
PEN-GINs are now all of the center Ladybug's conversations.

You say tomato...I say YUM

2009-07-25T21:10:00.000-05:00

Thinking about it...

This stuff is good!

It's Hard (Cute) Work

2009-07-24T20:18:00.001-05:00

Time to get started...

Man...this is kind of fun...furrowed brow...

What do you mean I'm not supposed to look cute while I mow?Back to work...

I'm going...I'm going...

We've Adopted

2009-06-18T20:15:00.006-05:00

Meet Alexandra, aka Alex.

Aka, Emma's favorite toy.

Alex Approximations:
Born March 12, 2009
Adopted June 6, 2009
Weight: 2 pounds 8 ounces

I'm Walkin...

2009-06-01T21:22:00.003-05:00

Yes Indeed...

2009-06-01T19:06:00.006-05:00

I'm Walkin...

2009-06-01T18:16:00.000-05:00

Oh, I wish I were...

2009-05-17T21:14:00.000-05:00

NaNa and Emma enjoyed a hot dog when the Weiner Mobile made an appearance at our HEB.

Ladybug in Frog Pond

2009-05-09T20:10:00.000-05:00

One day, all babies will be born healthy

2009-04-26T20:07:00.000-05:00

What a difference a year makes.

March for Babies: Final Plea...

2009-04-24T10:26:00.002-05:00

This Sunday we are walking for babies. The March for Babies 2009 walk will be at the University of Houston. This is my final plea for donations. Please support the March for Babies walk by donating using the button/link on the right side of the blog.

Our family was blessed with the best care and treatments for Emma. March of Dimes helped make that possible.

Another Fond Farewell

2009-04-19T16:12:00.004-05:00

The First Time

Then (March 1st, 2008)

And the Last Time.

NOW (April 19, 2009)

Goodbye, Dear Car Seat. We will remember you well.

And now, onto bigger, better things, such as the new car seat.

(Photo courtesy of Amazon.)

March for Babies

2009-04-16T12:46:00.003-05:00

You may recognize the picture above, it was taken a year ago. And it is one of everyone's favorites.

In a little over a week, Emma's Entourage (our Family Team) will be participating in the March for Babies walk. March for Babies is an annual fundraiser for the March of Dimes (MoD).

Our family was blessed with the best care and treatments for Emma. March of Dimes helped make that possible.

Texas Bluebonnets

2009-04-12T21:16:00.006-05:00

It wouldn't be Easter without the Texas Bluebonnets. So a Happy Easter to all and please enjoy a Ladybug in the bluebonnets.

Suggestions are now being taken for the official Easter picture. Feel free to comment!!!

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T15:19:00.001-05:00

Happy Duckling

2009-04-02T19:12:00.000-05:00

Daddy makes bath time so much fun!!!

Visitors from Afar

2009-03-17T19:10:00.000-05:00

PoPo, Gamma, and Emma

Cowgirl In Training

2009-02-28T20:02:00.002-06:00

Ladybug with Butterflies

2009-01-31T20:59:00.000-06:00

How cute am I?

Booty shot...

Birthday Party Time

2009-01-25T20:29:00.001-06:00

I have so much I want to add to this post, but the slide show will have to do for now.

The theme was cupcakes. So I went a little overboard. (Just a little!)

I made 3 different types of cupcakes (banana, chocolate, and vanilla). There were approximately 120 cupcakes on the table, not including Emma's 4-inch banana cupcake. There is a picture of the dessert table in the slide show. We had a salad, lasagna, and homemade extra garlicky breadsticks, that Ladybug enjoyed more than anything else. The girl loves garlic.

The colors were awesome. I chose to highlight the red, yellow, lime, and purple. I had red and yellow tablecloths. And of course, balloons were everywhere.

Emma had the party hat and bib. Her high chair was decorated too including a cupcake themed plastic sheet to catch the cake Emma smashed. It was cute to say the least!

Let's not forget the cupcake pops either.

It was a blast!!! Ladybug may not remember it, but the family certainly will.

Oh, and welcome to the world, Baby Angela. Your Mommy, Daddy, and brother are totally forgiven for not coming to party. After all, a girl has to make a grand entrance.

Birthday Party Favors (Cupcake Lollipops)

2009-01-19T20:44:00.000-06:00

The theme of Ladybug's First Birthday party is Cupcakes. So, of course, I had to do some type of cupcake favor.

I am not obsessive. I am not compulsive. I do not suffer from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. And, I am certainly most definitely not a perfectionist. And those of you who know me can stop laughing any moment now.

Here is how I spent Martin Luther King Day.

Cupcake Pops!

These are cake like truffles, in this case strawberry, dipped in milk chocolate, then white chocolate, "sprinkled," and eventually bagged and tied with a pretty ribbon.

Happy Happy Birthday Miss Emma!!!

2009-01-14T21:32:00.004-06:00

Wow...what a busy day we have had.

First up, was the early wake up call you gave us. Somehow you knew this was a special day.

Next, packing up 5 dozen cupcakes. (I have pictures.)

After a quick trip (maybe not so quick) of dropping Daddy's truck office at its hospital, we were off for your 1 year check up.

Emma Official Estimates:
Weight: 23 pounds 2.5 ounces
Length: 29.5 inches

Good news to report, we can make the official switch, that is the switch to cow's milk away from formula!!!

Second item of outstanding news, "we are no longer the parents of a preemie." Well, Miss Ladybug may have been a preemie, but she is on all targets for a full term baby, so we can't use the fall back of, "She was a preemie."

Next we were off to deliver the cupcakes. 2 1/2 dozen went to the NICU (15 for day staff and 15 for night), another box went to Labor and Delivery, and yet another box to Dr. Nisbett's office. Most excited I think were the Labor and Delivery nurses (I must have made a lasting impression). They were so excited to see how much Emma has grown.

Upon arriving home we greeted Great PoPo and Great Grandma who are here to stay the evening and through tomorrow. We ate lunch and Emma illustrated her fondness for Target by showing Grandma how she can really shop.

After a quiet evening, where we did try milk, the real thing, which we were not fond of, we sang in lullaby version, "Happy Birthday." It was an exhausting day for Miss Emma who wanted to retire early, but we couldn't let her go her first birthday without hearing it.

A Mom P.S.: I will post the "sappy" Mom's Happy Birthday post at a later time. I am still having a rather emotional time with it. In the mean time, please take a moment to wish my miracle ladybug a Happy Birthday. You are welcome to post anonymously, but it would be a great remembrance for Miss Emma. Darren and I appreciate everyone one of you!

God's Gentle Reminder

2009-01-13T21:46:00.002-06:00

Sometimes plans go awry. I had planned to do posts detailing all the events that led to Emma's arrival. There never seems to be enough time in the day. Well, I think sometimes God's sends gentle reminders that He's in charge. And very much case in point about who's in charge: the HARD DRIVE. Gee...it kind of reminds me of the plans to have a baby in March of last year. God had His own plan then too.

Anyway, stay tuned for the official First Birthday post tomorrow.

I will do the posts that led to Emma's arrival. Just not now. So, stay tuned, I might be backtracking a little.

Family Portrait

2009-01-09T20:23:00.001-06:00

The pictures are a little fuzzy. (Video size was too big.) I would be happy to share better pictures with requests.

Luckily these were taken the week before 3 of my wisdom teeth were removed. The weekend they were removed was also the weekend Emma was sick for the first time. Yep, Ladybug's Dad was one lucky guy that weekend!

Reason to Be Thankful for the Blog

2009-01-07T08:32:00.002-06:00

Our hard drive crashed. Yes, it is totaled.

I had been working on blog posts and just waiting to insert pictures but now the pictures are gone. So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, good bye... This with everything else including electronic copies of my dissertation.

So I am calling on all friends and family, if you have pictures of Ladybug, please send them to me.

Please please please pretty please..........

Practice Makes Perfect

2008-12-15T19:53:00.000-06:00

We did a practice shoot for Ladybug's "official" Christmas pictures. Here's the preview.

Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

2008-12-10T22:37:00.001-06:00

A couple of weeks after Darren and I moved to the Houston area it snowed, on Christmas Eve actually. (We actually missed it, we were in Weimar for the holidays). However, this was the first time in a long time it snowed enough to make a snowmen. And snowmen were even made on the beach (see pictures of Galveston or Bayou Vista). The last time I can remember a snowfall this heavy was in the mid-80s, specifically at my birthday party. I am probably still one of the few people in my hometown that had a Snow Birthday party complete with a Snow Family.

Well, it snowed here again. This time we were here. It officially is Emma's first snowfall, though I don't know whether to count it or not, she slept through it all!

But here is proof, it can snow in Dickinson, Texas.

Emma's First Stand (not Political)

2008-12-09T17:34:00.000-06:00

Officially, her booty is against the couch. But it still counts, right?

Happy Turkey Day (aka Go Cowboys!!!)

2008-11-27T16:29:00.000-06:00

Oh, how I love thee.What a face? At least, I'm cute in the picture.

Aunt KK and Uncle DonaldLet's Go Cowboys!!!!Yes, Uncle Jim Bob is one of my favorites!Is it game time yet?

Please note: PaPa, NaNa, and Mom were there as well. But, you see who got pictures.

I'm in the Army Now...

2008-11-15T14:52:00.000-06:00

Well..in training maybe...

I'm officially mobile. Let me introduce, The Army Crawl.

Please excuse Mommy's Bad Video Picture but maybe the photos will help you visualize better.

No More Leaning Tower of Ladybug

2008-11-10T18:17:00.000-06:00

And I am just a little proud.

Rumble in the Jungle

2008-11-02T16:16:00.006-06:00

After visiting the NICU everyday for nearly six and a half weeks, we returned to the NICU for the first time in over eight months.

Emma was officially invited to the Clear Lake Medical Center Neonatal Intensive Care Reunion.

We got to visit with a few of the nurses that shared care of Emma including Alice, one of Emma's favorites.

We also got to visit momentarily with Dr. Bedhi and Dr. Patel.

As we were leaving we were fortunate enough to see familiar faces. During Ladybug's stay, we became "scrub buddies" (See side story below) with the parents of a little girl who was also born at 30 weeks around the same day as Ladybug. She weighed a little over three pounds and went home a few days before Ladybug. We refer to her as Ladybug's Butterfly or NICU sister.As Ladybug's Mom, I admit, the reunion was more uncomfortable than I thought. It was really weird to step back as if stepping back into time and see the hospital from a different perspective. In January, February, and March, I didn't have time to think of consequences or "what if's." In November, I do. I have said this before but it certainly bears repeating. We are blessed to have a constant reminder of the power and proof of miracles!

Side story: The security, privacy and safety of the NICU patients is VERY VERY IMPORTANT. To obtain entrance into the NICU, you would have to "buzz" the nurse/NICU receptionist. She (very few male nurses in NICU) would then check with the nurse assigned to to your child to see if you could enter. Once the secure doors were unlocked, you would step over to the washing basin or over to the lockers first to deposit materials that couldn't be taken into the NICU. If your baby was in level 3, you put on the hospital gown. Then you had a to grab a sterile sponge that contained sanitizing soap and scrub your entire hands including under your fingernails. You washed, you scrubbed, you rinsed, you scrubbed, you washed, and rinsed again. Absolutely no GERMS were allowed in the NICU without permission. Once your hand washing was complete you stepped over to another phone to dial the nurse/receptionist once again, who would then unlock the second set of secure doors. All this is written not as unpleasant reminder, but as part of the experience. This also reiterates, that as parents we did not know the names of the other babies nor parents. We only recognize the faces of those that shared the washing basin, or waited outside locked doors, or those that share a story with crossover to ours.

Trick or Treat!!!

2008-10-31T21:00:00.000-05:00

For Halloween, can anyone guess what Miss Emma was?

Well, thanks to Aunt Kathy, Emma was...can you believe it...a ladybug.

Yes, these are professional portraits. But she is just so darn cute.

Although Miss Emma did not go trick or treating, she did attend the Galveston College Halloween Carnival. Once again, cute is an understatement.

What Can Possibly Be Cuter Than...

2008-10-30T21:39:00.005-05:00

...a baby's laugh.

Please excuse the quality of the video below. Maybe Santa will bring a new camera for Christmas?

Asleep at the Reigns

2008-10-25T20:50:00.000-05:00

Happy Nine Month Birthday Miss Emma!

2008-10-14T07:05:00.000-05:00

Okay...I've surrendered to the harassment. Here are few pictures. I was hoping to actually post a real blog but...

She actually has two teeth now. But snapping a picture of them is impossible.

She love love love loves her great Grandma and great PoPo.

I think she has Great PoPo's smile.

Happy Nine Month Birthday Miss Emma!

Sleeping Booty

2008-10-06T16:05:00.000-05:00

The title says it all!

How cute is this?

Hurricane Ike: Update

2008-09-15T07:49:00.001-05:00

I can't seem to say often enough, "We are blessed."

Darren, Dad, Mom, and I ventured home (Dickinson) yesterday with an empty pit in our stomach not knowing what to expect. Thankfully, we were AMAZED. We pulled into our subdivision to discover a house fully intact. No broken windows, no major water damage in the house. Hurricane Ike's destruction of our property included lifting away a few roof shingles and a few portions of our privacy fence lying on the ground. The missing shingles created a small hole in our roof that led to a little water damage in our utility room (tile not carpet). We are out of electricity. However, when we arrived yesterday, our freezer chest still had ice and the butter in the refrigerator was beginning to soften but still cold to the touch. The estimated time of arrival for power restoration has very from a few days, to a week, to even a month.

Galveston College, from reports, also was spared and very lucky. Initial reports indicate that only a few windows were broken and that there was not, I repeat not, flooding. We are very lucky. There still has to be a complete assessment of the facility. There is no power and power is not anticipated to be available for several days at the very minimum. Limited personnel have been allowed back onto the island at this point. Therefore, faculty, staff, and students are not expected to report back for some time.

And for those of you wondering, the Hellibu survived as well. No damage.

I will keep you posted with updates as I can. We appreciate your prayers and thoughts.

Happy Eight Month Birthday, Miss Emma!

2008-09-14T21:00:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe it's been eight months. And what a wonderful, crazy roller coaster it has been.

This month's milestones:

Emma's first tooth appeared as of August 30th. I know that has been a long time, but I have been trying to get the elusive picture. Maybe another day...
Emma does not feel it is necessary for her to remain on a blanket or in one place. She rolls where she needs to go, preferably at the edge of the blanket but on the carpet.
She is starting to babble a lot more. There is nothing distinguishable, yet. However, the angry babble is certainly too cute.
The jumperoo is favorite baby "gear" of the moment.
Favorite toys: pink love bug, soft eeyore, a duck that quacks, and dotty the blanket
Other cuteness: She had long given up her binky. However, she found a different brand binky and loves to "pop" the binky. Imagine her taking the binky with one hand on each side while it's in her mouth. She then pulls as hard as she can. This results in a "POP" that makes her giggle every time.

I don't have pictures to post. Dial-up connectivity is a little slow. I'll post when I can.

Run from Water, Hide from Wind

2008-09-12T07:59:00.002-05:00

Well, we have done so.

For those of you who may not know. I work for Galveston College, the community college on Galveston Island. We live in Dickinson/League City, Texas. (Interesting story there, our mailing address is Dickinson but we pay League City taxes and utilities)

In fear of the nasty, nasty, did I mention, nasty evacuation for Hurricane Rita we left as soon as we absolutely could. During the Rita trip, the normal 2 hour driver turned into 10 almost 11 hours. We left this Wednesday evening and made it to Weimar in 2 hours 45 minutes, thankfully.

We are going to ride out the storm here. It is not looking good for home and work.

It's always an adventure in our household and definitely never boring.

Compromise

2008-09-08T07:10:00.007-05:00

When Darren and I started dating, there was an obvious difference between the two of us. A difference so big, the family even asked if I was sure there was no one else. I am, and always have been, an Astros fan. The entire family supports the Houston Astros. I have been to at least one game a season since I can remember. I actually lost count how many games a year I went to when I attended U of H, after all Tuesday was college night. I digress. Needless to say, I am just a little bit of a fan. And well, Darren is not (or was not, still debatable) an Astros fan. And he didn't just like any team. He support the Atlanta Braves. How could I possibly spend the rest of my life with a Braves fan?

Before Emma, we would root our separate ways. However, we didn't feel that it was appropriate to make our daughter choose. Thus came along the compromise. Emma's baseball team of choice is the Houston Astros not Atlanta Braves. Emma's football team of choice is the Dallas Cowboys not the Houston Texans (and really I'm not giving up much there :) ) That is until she is old enough to choose her own teams, but for now anyway is the Astros and the Cowboys.

So, the family attended Emma's first baseball game on . It was a special game beyond Emma's first. It was the day Craig Biggio's jersey was retired. The 'Stros won't be the same. But anyway, Emma had a great time. She fell asleep in the top of the first inning, slept through Ty Wigginton's 3-run homer in the bottom of the 1st. Yes, this included her sleeping through the crowd noise, the firework explosion, and the train. However, we did have time for a few pictures. Here's our favorite.

But not to be outdone, here's another. And yes, she is in an Astros outfit as well. In the top picture she's just hiding it.
And another family photo...(thanks Bryant!)

And so, the compromise goes. Emma went to her first 'Stros game. This past Sunday she watched the Cowboys game with Daddy. And so you don't think I am totally picture biased, here are a few pictures.

The Cowboys had scored a touchdown right before I grabbed the camera. And yes, she does have a Dallas Cowboy outfit, it's just a little big. So, according to Daddy, she saving it for the playoffs. We shall see.

So...go 'Stros and go Cowboys!

Goodbye My Friend

2008-09-05T10:37:00.002-05:00

Today we lost a special member of the family. Samantha Claire (aka "Sammie"), our Siamese, passed away this morning. She was almost fourteen years old. We knew in our hearts that she wouldn't be with us forever, but somehow it's the same heart that knew that's hurting right now.

Darren corrected me today when I said she was mine. Yes, Darren, you are correct, she was ours. However, she was and always be mine. I am the one who held her inside my letterman jacket when I took her home from the shelter. I am the one she slept next to or on top of. I am the one who argued with her over possession of the "duckie" blanket. And she was the one who knew me and comforted me before you. I've joked but it's the honest truth. I knew you were the man who would be soul mate because Sammie approved.

Sammie was special for so many things. She did back flips for paper balls as a kitten. She was so cross-eyed she would often run into walls, pick herself up, and carry on as nothing happened. Or, when she did venture out of the house which rarely occurred, she would always turn left and make a complete circle. She had the Siamese Texas drawl. She loved the top of the stairs. And, when you combine the drawl and the top of stairs you got an echo that she was so proud of, yet it rattled everyone's last nerve. And, speaking of stairs, of course the bunny hop was the only way to traverse them carefully.

Sammie was intelligent. She considered herself a real human. She knew the phrase, "Go to your room." And though Darren didn't believe me that she said, "Mom" or what sounded really close to "Maaaaaaaaaa," he became a believer during my first trip away from home at approximately 2am in the morning when she was looking for me at the top of the stairs.

I will miss all the little things. But most importantly, I will miss my friend.

Amazing

2008-08-29T20:50:00.007-05:00

A friend of mine shared on her blog, a fun website (http://wordle.net/). So, of course I had to try it out. Basically, it takes a collection of words and makes them into art. The words that are used most frequently are made the largest with less frequently used words tucked between. I used Emma's blog to generate the following two images.

I can't but help notice that the words that are most noticeable are Emma and God. Amazing.

Whoa...Horsey...

2008-08-14T21:11:00.006-05:00

In Darren's pursuit of making his little girl a cowgirl.

Emma has begun to ride horse.
Well sort of...

Seven Months...Already....

2008-08-14T20:47:00.009-05:00

Happy Seventh Month Birthday Miss Emma!

Accomplishments/milestones of the month:

No more preemie formula. Emma has advanced from Similac Neosure to Similac Advance (a regular formula). Yeah!!!!!
BACK to TUMMY! Emma can roll from her back to her tummy. She has also discovered that she can do this as she falls asleep and loves sleeping on her tummy. Did I mention she loves sleeping on tummy? If not, she really loves sleeping on her tummy.
She's an all-nighter. That is, she sleeps from approx 8 in the evening to 5 in the morning. Thank goodness Daddy is a morning person.
She had her first true road trips. We stayed in San Antonio for 4 days 3 nights in the Westin Riverwalk. There she got to spend some valuable time with Great Grandma and Great PoPo.
She also spent the night in Waco on another road trip. There she got to spend time with Granny and PawPaw.
She has begun solid foods. I'll have some pictures posted later.
She has survived her first Tropical Storm (Edouard). She was absolutely smashing and wonderful throughout the day. What can we say? She's a survivor.
She has started to giggle and laugh. Hopefully, soon I will have the audio clip for everyone to here.
Has fallen in love with her bug (stuffed pink and yellow toy with bell, not pictured) and her beloved Dotty (the polka dot blanket in the majority of pictures.

And now for what everyone is really here for....

pictures, pictures, pictures.

My apologies if you have a slow connection, but you asked for these.

Such a big girl...

A Thought for All Preemie Moms

2008-08-07T07:47:00.002-05:00

This message was shared on one of the numerous preemie message and support groups that I joined. It's beautiful, so I thought I would share.

Did you ever wonder how the mothers of premature babies are chosen?

Somehow, I visualize God hovering over Earth, selecting hisinstruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As he observes, he instructs his angels to take notes in a giant ledger.

"Armstrong, Beth, son. Patron Saint, Matthew.Forrest, Marjorie, daughter. Patron Saint, Celia.Rutledge, Carrie, twins. Patron Saint...give her Gerard. He's used to profanity.

"Finally, he passes a name to an angel and smiles."Give her a preemie."

The angel is curious. "Why this one, God? She's so happy."

"Exactly," smiles God. "Could I give a premature baby a mother who knows no laughter? That would be cruel."

"But does she have the patience?" asks the angel.

"I don't want her to have too much patience, or she'll drown in a sea of self-pity and despair. Once the shock and resentment wear off, she'll handle it.I watched her today. She has that sense of self and independence so rare and so necessary in a mother. You see, the child I'm going to give her has a world of its own. She has to make it live in her world, and that's not going to be easy."

"But Lord, I don't think she even believes in you."

God smiles. "No matter, I can fix that. This one is perfect She has just the right amount of selfishness."

The angel gasps, "Selfishness?! Is that a virtue?"

God nods. "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally, she will never survive. Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child less than perfect. She doesn't know it yet, but she is to be envied. She will never take for granted a spoken word. She will never consider a step ordinary.When her child says momma for the first time, she will be witness to a miracle and know it. I will permit her to see clearly the things I see-- ignorance, cruelty, prejudice-- and allow her to rise above them. She will never be alone. I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life because she is doing my work as surely as she is here by my side."

"And what about her Patron Saint?" asks the angel, his pen poised in the air.

God smiles. "A mirror will suffice."

Happy Half Year Birthday!!!!

2008-07-14T21:29:00.003-05:00

Happy Half Birthday Miss Emma!!!!!!

Emma Estimates:

Height: 25 inches (25th percentile for a six month full term baby)
Weight: 15 pounds 2 ounces (25-50th percentile for a six month full term baby)
Head circumference: 44 cm (90th percentile for a six month full term baby)

Other accomplishments:

Emma rolls to her side.
Emma is no longer on a combination of moo juice and preemie formula rather she eats a moo juice/full term infant formula combination.
Emma has a laugh that makes your heart giggle.

Happy Fifth Month Birthday!!!!

2008-06-14T13:01:00.004-05:00

Okay...nothing but pictures taken today on Emma's 5th Month Birthday!!! How time flies!

I tried to capture some in the bouncer and car seat for size reference.

Nothing's Wrong Just Testing You

2008-05-29T21:44:00.007-05:00

Okay...okay...alas, I know you are here for the pictures of Emma. Here's a couple of quick pictures of Emma. You will note a few things:

She is no longer sleeping completely on her wedge. She prefers to move, aka turn not toss, at night.
She is using a big girl binky. We have transitioned her from her beloved green soothie binkies to Avent binkies which will grow with her. Her new favorite is the Pinky Binky she has in her mouth in the picture.
Yes, the onesie is one of our favorites. It states "Nothing's Wrong Just Testing You"
And yes, she is getting bigger. She's growing too fast.

Wanted: Freezer Space

2008-05-29T21:32:00.005-05:00

So...as many of you have read, I express "moo juice" for Emma frequently on a daily basis. This pumped moo juice is then dumped into plastic bags to be frozen to be defrosted to then be dumped in her bottles. We shall call this the "pump and dump" process.

Well, currently I have pumped enough milk to be dumped for 2 weeks. Now, officially this is not enough moo juice to supply Emma's demand, but a beneficial ratio of moo juice to formula.

Therefore, freezer space is devoted to moo juice.

But that's not all. This past Memorial Day weekend, I spent time making Emma baby food. Emma helped in the kitchen (basically, she sat bouncing herself in the bouncer and amusing herself while Mom was busy). So....we made.....

Butternut squash
Acorn squash
Calabaza squash
Applesauce
Pears
Carrots
Green Beans
Sweet Potatoes

So here is what the freezer currently looks like.

Her pediatrician wants us to wait until Emma is 6 months old plus 10 weeks (Emma's adjusted age of 6 months) before we begin baby food. Quite honestly, I can't see us holding out that long. She is already taking approximately 30 ounces per day. If we wait as long as her doctor suggests, we will not be starting solid food until October. Any suggestions or ideas are welcome.

1000 Hits...

2008-05-29T21:25:00.003-05:00

Okay...not quite as big of ordeal as Biggio's recent record, however, I find it very impressive.

If you look at the number of hits since Emma came home, we have hit the
1000 mark.

Oh, how I regret and wish I would have put the counter up sooner.

Thank you all for making it happen!

Long Awaited...

2008-05-20T06:38:00.006-05:00

Well...I know it's been a long time and a lot has happened.

The first pictures you'll see are from May 16th. Darren and I renewed our vows. Emma slept the entire time so there aren't any cute pictures of the three of us. She was, however, up long enough for us to snap a few shots, the best being Emma with her great grandma. I am hoping the two other cameras in attendance will have better pictures.

Mickie presented me with a beautiful bouquet.

And Mom made a wonderful wedding cake that tasted as awesome as it looked.

But I know what the blog readers really want and that is pictures of the Ladybug. So here you go....

I can be cute.
I can be mischievous.

I can be cute.
I can make you laugh with me.
But then I can be serious.
But get cute again.

And again...

It's hard to believe that Emma is 4 months old already. It's hard to believe that I actually celebrated my first Mother's Day. It's hard to believe I have a beautiful, wonderful, absolutely precious daughter of my own. It's hard to believe I have a husband that is so supportive, always there, and always making me feel loved. It's hard to believe my life is as fulfilling as it is.

It's hard to believe all these things...unless you believe in miracles. And I ask, with the proof that I have, how can you not?

Quick Post

2008-05-08T07:56:00.003-05:00

Emma had her four-month wellness exam yesterday, so...

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 11 pounds 3 ounces
Length: 22 1/2 inches
Head circumference 40 1/2 cm

I will post more details later...

March for Babies

2008-04-27T11:40:00.003-05:00

Here are pictures of our adventure today. The first of course are the cutest. This is Emma in her sun hat.

Emma and I are currently accepting applications/nominations for next year's March of Babies Family Team, to be known a Emma's Entourage. I think we need a whole crew. We will have T-shirts and everything. Let us know if you are interested....

Growing with Grins and Giggles

2008-04-26T10:09:00.009-05:00

Tomorrow (if the weather cooperates) Emma will visit the University of Houston for the first time. We are going to attempt to participate in the March for Babies walk. See link on the right...

However, today when Emma woke up, she was all grins and a giggle.

And just for comparison purposes... This was Miss Emma on March 3rd. Take a look on the tiger in the picture on the left to compare size.

Another illustration of Miss Emma's growth. Emma, yesterday, getting ready for Miss Kim's.

Emma coming home from the hospital on March 1st.

Okay...and Mommy's first attempt at a video. Sorry for the dark picture. But listen closely at about 8 seconds. Then the video stream broke. Let's just say I won't make any money making professional videos in the near or distant future.

Okay okay.... a lot has happened...

2008-04-21T13:10:00.004-05:00

since I last posted. Let's see if I can condense.

I was given a lovely baby shower or rather Emma was given a lovely baby shower. This was the "makeup" baby shower for the shower scheduled in January when let's just say I was avoidably detained.

Here are a few pictures:

Ladybug in ladybugs!

Emma spent her first few days at the Miss Kim's house (day care). And yes, that means I went back to work. I started off slow only going in Tuesday and Thursday of last week. I think the hardest day was Wednesday. I am a deep end of the pool not one torturous toe at a time person. Wednesday was just a tease. Please don't get me wrong, Monday night was hard. Tuesday morning was harder. But Wednesday was the hardest because I knew what it was going to be like to be away from her yet I had another day to enjoy her and cry because I couldn't be there. However, Emma rewarded me on Tuesday night. She couldn't be consoled by Daddy or Aunt MiMi, only Mommy would do. :)

But it's official now, I am back to work full-time. And Darren takes Emma to the sitter's because I think if it were up to me, I would just turn around and go home with her.

In case you didn't notice, there is a link to the March for Babies walk on the right side of the blog. I have decided to become a volunteer with the March of Dimes organization. To quote the organization:

"The money we raise for March for Babies will support lifesaving research, services, education and advocacy that help babies get a healthy start.

Please help by donating today!

The mission of March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality."

Belated Easter Pictures

2008-04-09T08:59:00.005-05:00

How cute am I...

...in my Easter outfit?

Great Uncle Jimmy & Emma

Mommy, Daddy, & Ladybug

Three Generations (Hrcek, Antosh, Clark)

NaNa, PaPa, Mommy, and Emma

NaNa, PaPa, Daddy, Mommy, and Emma

No More Big Brother

2008-04-06T08:07:00.003-05:00

Well...we have been sort of quiet on this issue because it seemed too good to be true. But Emma is officially CORDLESS!

That's right...

NO MORE MONITOR!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pictures pictures pictures....

2008-04-01T08:56:00.009-05:00

Emma in her Easter dress

Our Baby Girl

Holding Mommy's Finger

Daddy's Palm

Back in Mommy's Arms

Bye Bye Newborn

2008-03-31T13:49:00.002-05:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 8 pounds 4 ounces
Length: 21 inches

Well, it's 'see ya' to newborn footsies. Miss Emma is growing again. It was confirmed at her appointment today. I will try to post pictures as soon as I can.

Today, Emma received her Synagis shot to prevent RSV (a respiratory virus). She was a very big girl. Once again, the nurse injected the medication, Emma wailed momentarily and then looked at the nurse and grinned. The nurse was amazed!

I Remember and Always Will

2008-03-21T21:22:00.008-05:00

I woke up this morning with a tear in my eye. Today is an emotional day. You see, Miss Emma, today was your estimated due date.

Approximately forty weeks ago, a truly miraculous event occurred. Your Mommy and Daddy had wanted you in their life for a very long time. They were even told by the doctors who specialize in “special orders” that it was just not possible. They used words like “improbable” and phrases such as “highly unlikely” and “chances too small to measure.” But our family always said, that we needed to be told no or that is was impossible before we would prove the people wrong. You are a blessing from the very beginning.

I remember being told that we were pregnant. I also remember being so happy that I was scared it was too good to be true. I remember the look in Darren’s eyes when I spoke the magic words we longed to hear and say. Daddy and I even hid the good news from the family until you were with us for thirteen weeks. I remember announcing your expected arrival to your grandparents on Grandparents’ Day. I also remember telling your Aunt MiMi and the priceless look she had on her face. It felt so good to celebrate our love for you even then.

I remember seeing your heartbeat on the screen and the wonderful it made then. And even though you were elusive with the ultrasounds, I remember how absolutely beautiful you were then.

I remember how much your taste buds influenced my life. Like your Daddy, apparently you don’t like onions. I couldn’t tolerate the smell. You also have my love for green apples and cranberries. I was fortunate not to have morning sickness but then again, I was already blessed by you so I would have welcomed even the morning sickness with open arms.

I remember how even the silliest things to a whole new meaning because you were already in our lives. Christmas changed. New Years changed. More importantly the word family took a whole new meaning.

I remember being told to expect complications. You see, other doctors had told your Daddy and me that it wasn’t a matter of could we conceive but should we. I remember being so careful with everything I did to ensure your safety as well as my own so that I would be here with you.

I remember the cold that started it all. I remember going to the doctor for the cold but finding out about high blood pressure. I remember taking it easy and researching articles that made me more uneasy.

I remember being hospitalized the first week of the new year. I remember having your Daddy there for me not letting either of us out of his thoughts for even one second.

I remember being hospitalized with such high blood pressure, I think I raised the nurses' blood pressure. I remember each needle that was used and each and every medication provided to make certain everything possible was done to keep you inside as long as possible.

I remember the moment that Dr. Nesbitt told me that today (1/14) was THE day. I remember never being more frightened and happy in my life. I remember each of every moment of that day between that moment with Dr. Nesbitt until I heard you cry in the delivery, a cry that were told just hours before not to expect.

You see Miss Emma, you are not just a blessing; you are a MIRACLE.

So on this glorious day, the day of your expected arrival, I thank God for miracles. I thank God for the miracle of your conception, the miracle of your birth, and the tiny miracles of having you in my life each and every day!

Daddy's Birthday

2008-03-11T21:23:00.002-05:00

Emma's Special Outfit for Daddy's Birthday

Gambling Visitors (March 6th, 2008)

2008-03-08T10:16:00.003-06:00

After a trip to Louisiana, for recreational purposes, Great PoPo and Grandma decided to take a detour on their way home. They stopped by to see Miss Emma officially at home.

Great PoPo holding Emma for the first time.

Mommy isn't the only one who can rock me to sleep.

Official Retirment (March 5th, 2008)

2008-03-08T10:02:00.005-06:00

Well... it's a sad, yet happy day in the Clark household.

Emma is officially having to retire her premie onesies. Here are pictures of her wearing the yellow onesie. My how she has grown!

Oh, the fond memories we will leave behind...

~ Yellow Rosebud, February 3, 2008

http://annaeed.blogspot.com/2008/02/yellow-rosebud.html

~ Lavender Lady, January 30, 2008

http://annaeed.blogspot.com/2008/01/lavender-lady.html

~ Pretty in Pink, January 31, 2008

http://annaeed.blogspot.com/2008/01/pretty-in-pink.html

~ Green Goddes, February 1, 2008

http://annaeed.blogspot.com/2008/02/green-goodess.html

~ Baby Blue Belle

http://annaeed.blogspot.com/2008/02/february-9th-2008.html

First Doctor's Appt (Well sort of...March 4th, 2008)

2008-03-08T09:53:00.007-06:00

Today was Emma's first appointment with her pediatrician. So, that counts (I think) as her first doctor's appointment. Yes, I know, she has seen doctors practically everyday of her life, but this one's outside the hospital.

First things, first, Emma weighs SIX pounds according to Dr. Farella's scales.

Second, Emma received all of three of her two month immunizations. It was really cute. The nurse looked at us and told us to be prepared because the babies generally cry for long periods afterwards. Emma, on the other hand, let out a small cry for each shot and then gave the nurse a glaring stare almost as if she were saying, "That's all... that's it... no more. Oh, I've handled way worse than that lady."

Third, according to Dr. Farella, Emma is to be treated like a regular newborn. She just has a little more experience at being a newborn.

Finally, Emma's next scheduled doctor's appointment is in two months. It seems rather weird to think that after spending almost 7 weeks in the hospital with daily visits from doctors, she can now go that length of time without them. Okay...minor correction... she does have a follow-up eye appointment in two weeks.

Emma in her car seat with monitor

The footsies are getting small

Bouncy Bouncy Bouncy (March 3rd, 2008)

2008-03-08T09:51:00.004-06:00

Here's pictures of Emma in her bouncer. It helps with her acid reflux. Plus, I think Aunt MiMi enjoys it as much as Emma.

Okay, this is new. What's this really about?
Hey, this isn't half bad...
It's kind of fun.
And it really wears me out.

All's quiet on the Clark forefront

2008-03-02T18:09:00.005-06:00

... well, as quiet as can be.

Here's a picture of Emma taking charge of her medication.

She's already illustrating who's the boss.

~ In other news, Happy Birthday NaNa!

Homeward Bound (March 1st 2008)

2008-03-02T18:08:00.004-06:00

It's a new month with a new beginning...Emma's home.

Emma Estimates for the Very Last Time Daily

Weight: 2441 grams or 5 pounds 6.1 ounces
Length: 42 centimeters or 16.5 inches

~ Emma's First Car Ride

~ Emma in Her Bed

~ Not pictured ... An overly joyed ecstatic and proud Mom and Dad!

Let Us Sleep On It (February 29th, 2008)

2008-02-29T13:52:00.004-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 5 pounds 5.9 ounces

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ This is Emma's official last picture in the level II NICU at Clear Lake Regional Hospital.

~ Before Darren and I could bring Emma home, we had to "Room-In" at the NICU. There is a room at the hospital in the NICU area that is set up like a hotel room. Here are pictures.

That's Emma in the pink open crib in the pictures.

We have to be there at 8pm Friday evening to stay with Emma with her monitor to be sure we understand how it works. We will be discharged from the hospital directly from the "Rooming In" room and no longer in the NICU.

The hospital is "kind" enough to bring our meals. There's everything we would need to simulate a home experience including a lost remote to the TV.

One of our favorite nurses describes the experience this way, "After we (NICU) have had Emma for this long, we (the nurses) want to be sure we trust you enough to take our precious one home." Basically, they want to "sleep on it" just to be sure.

Checkered Flag in View (Thursday, February 28th, 2008)

2008-02-29T13:51:00.011-06:00

It's becoming official. Miss Emma is coming home. Today, we got word that the expected/anticipated "Bring Home" date is Saturday! I have been absent and hesitating writing this all week because the dates have kept changing. But, as we move closer to Saturday, the date has stabilized.

I can't describe how this feels right now. I am anxious, nervous, scared, proud, humbled, excited, ecstatic, terrified, happy, sad, joyous, selfish, beaming, and emotional to say the least.

Emma, I can't wait to have you home!!!!!!!

Field Trips (Wednesday, February 27th, 2008)

2008-02-29T13:51:00.006-06:00

It was a long, but good, day at the hospital today. Emma completed more of the tests needed before she comes home.

1) Emma had a barium swallow test. Basically this involved Emma being fed some nasty liquid and x-rays and more x-rays. The x-rays showed the barium liquid going down and then coming partially back up the esophagus. This is commonly known as Acid Reflux. Therefore, Miss Emma will be coming home with Acid Reflux medication.

2) Emma also had an MRI of her brain. Results are back and all looks normal. YEAH!

3) The results are back from the OCGVR (???, I don't know if I have the right acronym). Emma has periodic breathing. This means at times she breathes normal for 4-5 breathes then takes a really shallow breath. As a precaution, she will be coming home with monitors. Dr. Bedhi indicated she will grow out of this. We just need to be patient. (Haha, you all know how patient Emma and I are. We both will have to rely on Darren's patience.)

Wide Open Space (Tuesday, February 26th, 2008)

2008-02-28T20:24:00.006-06:00

Okay...Darren is not a fan of the Dixie Chicks but I happen to like some of their songs. So I couldn't resist.

Yes, Miss Emma has moved into an open crib and out of her isolette. She's movin' up.

The apparatus you seen in her nose is not oxygen. She was having her OCGVR (???) test done. (Please don't ask what the acronym references. At work, I am known as the acronym queen, but alas I have been dethroned!) Basically, this 12 hour tests monitors breathing, heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation levels, acid reflux, etc. It's a 12 hour test.

I find it rather semi-ironic that Emma is finally out of an isolette but is now hooked up to more wires.

Needless to say, this is another step closer to home.

Aunt MiMi's Day

2008-02-25T10:23:00.003-06:00

Aunt MiMi got to hold me today!

All I Can Eat...Really?????

2008-02-24T05:54:00.003-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 2257 or 4 pounds 15.6 ounces
Feedings: All She Can Eat in 30 minutes

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

There is just one picture today. It shows it all. This is one of her smiles/grins after she finishes her bottle. Today, she took 15 minutes "direct from the source" and additional 20 cc's from a bottle.

This marks another milestone or "check" on the checklist of things to do before she can come home. In addition, she was taken off her Reglan (for acid reflux). Before she can come home, they will perform a sleep and acid reflux test to determine if she needs monitors and meds when she gets home. We are definitely getting closer.

Tiny Bubbles (February 23rd, 2008)

2008-02-24T05:32:00.006-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 2270 grams or FIVE pounds
Feedings: 44cc's over eight bottle feedings with one direct from the source

Accomplishments/Happenings/Milestones:

~ There is a nurse in the NICU that loves giving baths. We know so, because she sings a modified version the song Tiny Bubbles in the sweetest, bubbly (pun-intended) voice while bathing other babies. It took everything in me today, not to sing T iny Bubbles while bathing Emma. Darren and I gave her a bath this morning. This marks another CHECK on the checklist of things to do before we go home!!!

~ After her bath, to warm her up and keep her warmer, Mommy (me) decided to try one of Emma's other outfits with feet. Daddy didn't think this would be a good idea. Well...

Here you see Miss Emma in her lavender onesie before her bath.

And here you see Miss Emma in the outfit she chose after her bath and tantrum, a pink onesie. As soon as we placed Miss Emma's feet in the feet portion of the footsie, she began to cry, well not really cry, more like scream. Nothing would console her. Finally, Daddy grabbed a onesie and with a big smile at Mommy said, "I told you so."

~ Great Grandma and Grandpa, Aunt KK and Uncle Jimmy came for a visit.

Moo Juice Direct from the Source

2008-02-22T20:45:00.004-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 2170 grams or 4 pounds 12.5 ounces

Feedings: 38 cc's over eight bottle feedings including one feeding direct from the source

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Along with all her feedings being by bottle, Emma gets to attempt obtaining milk directly from the source once a day. She took the news and attempted this like a pro. Keep your fingers crossed!!!!

The nurse actually called this pose/look, Breastmilk Drunk.

~ Pictures of the day!

Now You See It...Now You Don't

2008-02-21T13:47:00.004-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 2146 grams or 4 pounds 11.7 ounces
Feedings: 38 cc's during 8 bottle feedings

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ We feel like doing a little cheer. Oh what the heck...

Two, Four, Six, Eight, what do we appreciate???? Eight Bottles a Day...That's right eight bottles a day!!!!!

~ Picture Time...What's different about these two pictures?

Closer and closer...

2008-02-21T09:32:00.003-06:00

The burning question: When is Emma coming home?

Well ... I don't have an answer for the moment. But consider these things...

Some have stated she will come home when she is 5 pounds. She's close.

Some have stated she will come home after all eight of her feeds are by bottles. She's close.

Another has said that she will come home after she's reached 36 weeks. She's close.

All in all, we must remember that each day brings us closer and closer to bringing her home.

And what well she come home to????

Well, in my spare time (haha), I've made Darren help redecorate the nursery.

The nursery before...

The nursery after...

Yes, it's been invaded by ladybugs. The walls have been painted a pretty green (3rd time's the charm). The official bedding collection is the Kidsline Ladybug collection.

It's too cute!

Now if only Darren can prevent me from buying more of the matching accessories...haha...

Two...Three..Four...SIX Bottle Feedings Per Day

2008-02-20T14:28:00.005-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 2098 grams or 4 pounds 10 ounces
Feedings: 38 cc's and the title says it all, SIX bottle feedings per day

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Today, Emma started out with Four bottle feedings per day and jumped to SIX bottle feedings day!!!

~ Picture of the Day

Two..Three...FOUR Bottle Feedings Per Day (February 19th, 2008)

2008-02-20T14:20:00.005-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 2055 grams or 4 pounds 8.5 ounces
Feedings: 38 cc's per feeding with FOUR bottle feedings per day

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Yes, you read correctly. Every other feeding for Miss Emma is a bottle feeding. She is taking them in stride as well. At her 11am feeding, she downed (maybe inhaled is a better word) her milk in 8 minutes. At 5pm, she took her complete bottle including burps in 9 minutes. She is also all smiles after her bottle. Like look at me, I'm a big girl now!!!!

~ The caption below should read...Daddy, I refuse to take pictures under these circumstances.

Pardon Me, Do You Have any Grey Poupon?

2008-02-18T20:38:00.006-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 2020 grams or 4 pounds 7.3 ounces
Feedings: 38 cc's with THREE (possibly FOUR) bottle feedings

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Look at the little angel in white!!! Just remember looks can be very deceiving.

~ During Emma' 5pm feeding, her refined pallette or taste buds made an appearance. Emma absolutely refused to take her bottle today at 5pm. She was definitely looking for her bottle and would start sucking on it immediately. But then she would shudder and spit whatever she had taken out. We tried for 20 minutes. Darren and I smelled the milk and it smelled different than previous bottles. We asked the nurse if there was a new additive. She replied no, but said this was the last of the batch mixed from earlier. The nurse then took a freshly squeezed/pumped milk, mixed and re-bottled. Emma took it rapidly in 9 minutes with a really big burp. So, apparently Miss Emma prefers fresh milk over milk that has sat in the fridge awhile. So either we can describe her as really really picky or a baby with refined tastebuds...hehe... I can just see Emma requesting Grey Poupon, certainly not just any plain mustard.

~ More pictures from today...

Overachiever (February 17th, 2008)

2008-02-18T13:53:00.003-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 1950 grams or 4 pounds 5 ounces
Feedings: 34 cc's with TWO bottle feedings possibly THREE per day!!!

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Miss Emma the overachiever took her 5pm bottle in all of SIX minutes!!!

~NaNa and PaPa got to hold Emma today!

Moving On Up...Two Bottle Feedings a Day

2008-02-16T09:49:00.005-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 1910 grams or 4 pounds 3.4 ounces
Feedings: 34 cc's with one bottle feeding per day

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Today, Miss Emma was our little pink princess.

~ The bottle feeding went extremely well and she is being bumped up to 2 bottle feedings a day, one at 5pm and one at 5am.

~ Please also note there is a rare occurence in the pictures. Can anyone spot it?

~ Today, the kind and gracious ladies from work hosted a baby shower for the two of us. I will post pictures when I can. Thank you thank you thank you to all the ladies who hosted, those who attended, and a big thank you for the fabulous gifts Emma and I received.

Revolt Against Fuzzy Socks

2008-02-15T18:24:00.004-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 1870 grams or 4 pounds 2 ounces
Feedings: 35 cc's over 30 minutes or 12 minutes during her on bottle feeding

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ The nurses really like her in green.

~ By now you have seen pictures of Emma in her cute bobby or cuff socks. She really likes those and keeps them on her feet. However, she either does not like the fuzzy socks or she has a whole lot of fun pulling them off and having the nurses replace them. A few days ago, one of her nurses put fuzzy socks on her 5 different times. Each time the nurse says, Emma would use her feet and toes to push them off her feet. The nurse finally gave up. Well, today was the same thing. A different nurse put fuzzy socks on and Emma was quick to take them off. So no fuzzy socks for Emma for the time being. I'll keep you posted on the fuzzy sock watch!!!!

~ Snug as a bug in Daddy's arms.

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T08:12:00.006-06:00

Pictures of Emma in her Valentine's Day outfit (a red floral print onesie, red jumper with pink bow and flowers, and white socks with pink bow to match)!!!!

FOUR!!!!!!!!!!

2008-02-13T14:16:00.004-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 1810 grams or 4 pounds
Feedings: 35 cc's with 2 bottle feedings (5am and 5pm)

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Pictures from today...

~ Two steps or bottle feedings forward, one step/bottle feeding back. Emma's 5am feeding went wonderfully. However, during the 5pm feeding while I was holding her, when she needed to burp, Emma's heart rate and oxygen saturation rate would lower. She would have another A and B. The nurse spoke with the doctor. They decided to decrease Emma's bottle feedings back to once a day. In addition, she would be given supplemental oxygen through a nasal canula while feeding.

Semi-Rough but All in All Not a Bad Day

2008-02-12T13:37:00.004-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 1790 grams or 3 pounds 15.1 ounces
Feedings: 35 cc's over 30 minutes through feeding tube or over ??? minutes as fast as Ladybug can gulp it down through bottle

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Emma had a visit from the pediatric opthmologist or should it be the optometrist who specialies in pediatrics? Anyway, Emma had a visit from the eye doctor today. Her eyes look really good. This doctor wants to follow-up in 2 weeks but all looks really well.

~ I tried to give Emma her bottle at 5pm today. She wasn't having it. Even one of Emma's favorite nurses couldn't get her to take the bottle. The nurse was quick to point out though that the eye exam usually throws babies off. Regardless, Emma finished her feeding through the feeding tube. However, she did so well yesterday they have increased her bottle feedings to twice a day. Her next scheduled bottle feeding is tomorrow (Wednesday) at 5 am.

Bring on the Bottles

2008-02-11T20:19:00.000-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 1780 grams or 3 pounds 14.8 ounces
Feedings: 34 cc's over 30 minutes (or 22 minutes...hehe)

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Happy Four Week Birthday!!!! Emma was born exactly four weeks ago!!!!

~ Major Announcement/Accomplishment: Emma took her first bottle today and she took it like a pro. She took 34 cc's over 22 minutes. Really, she took the milk in half the time, the other half being devoted to burping. The nurse was really impressed. We are VERY PROUD to see the very least.

~ In addition to the bottles, Emma was grinning and all smiles after her feeding. Daddy captured a few of the gummy grins.

One Full Pound Since Birth

2008-02-10T20:13:00.000-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 1725 grams or 3 pounds 12.8 ounces
Feedings: 31 cc's over 30 minutes

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Great Grandma and Aunt KK visited. Emma slept the entire time, eyes totally shut.

~ Darren and I arrive for the 5pm feedings and Miss Emma is bright eyed and bushy tailed.

~ In other news, Emma has officially gained a full pound since birth. Take a look at the before and after pictures.

Emma 1/14/08

Emma 2/10/08

Baby Blue Belle

2008-02-09T23:30:00.001-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 1694 grams or 3 pounds 11.7 ounces
Feedings: 31 cc's over 30 minutes

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ *****New Outfit Alert***** Today, Emma is wearing a light blue onesie.

~ In the past, one of the nurses joked Emma would gain more weight if she didn't exercise so much (oh, what a problem to have)! Darren took these pictures within a few moments of each other. Her legs are constantly moving.

MY BINKY (February 8th, 2008)

2008-02-09T16:21:00.001-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 1630 grams or 3 pounds 9.5 ounces

Feedings: 31 cc's over 30 minutes

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Today Emma was in her green footsie with cheeries. But if you look closely, she is developing a little booty. :)

~ Home Decor (well...okay...Isolette Decor)

The name tag was done by NaNa.

The pink teddy bear is a gift from Great Uncle Jimmy

~ Emma has to have to her binky. She even played a rousing game of MY BINKY with Aunt MiMi. This consisted of Emma sucking on her binky until Aunt MiMi raised the camera, only to have Emma spit it out. Aunt MiMi places it back and the game begins again.

Our Family Loves Our Preemie More Than Yours

2008-02-07T20:49:00.001-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 1621 grams or 3 pounds 9.2 ounces
Feedings: 29 cc's over 30 minutes

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Miss Emma is modeling her green onesie once again, but this time with green socks. The socks happen to match her froggie which is a bean bag used for positioning her.

~ Mommy got to Emma hold during two of her feedings today. Neither time did Emma experience an A and B. Also, if you look closely in the picture, Emma has to hold her big girl pacifier every time.

~ This is the certificate from yesterday's NICU CPR class. The instructor joked that we needed to place our certificate on her isolette to show that we love our preemie more than yours because we completed the CPR class.

~ In other news (Mommy news), I got to stop taking my blood pressure medication today. And maybe today wasn't the right day to do so. But that's another story...

Growing and growing and growing...

2008-02-06T16:02:00.000-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 1630 grams or 3 pounds 9.5 ounces
Feedings: 29 cc's over 30 minutes

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Miss Emma was in pink today. See below.

~ Emma was using "big girl," ie newborn pacifier.

~ While Daddy was holding me during my feeding I had no A's and B's. My oxygen saturation level dropped just a bit but a few taps from Daddy made it all better.

Ups and Downs

2008-02-05T11:34:00.001-06:00

Emma Estimates:

Weight: 1580 grams or 3 pounds 6.7 ounces
Feedings: 29 cc's over 30 (or 40 minutes)

Accomplishments/Milestones/Happenings:

~ Check out the Hot Pink Socks!!!!

~ There will be ups and there will downs. Today as I was holding Emma during her feeding, she had a couple of A's and B's (apneas and bradycardias). It feels so weird and basically terrifying to be holding your child and hear the monitors beep warning of the unusual pattern and then to watch as she stops breathing and turns a little blue. You just feel helpless. Thankfully, it doesn't take her too long to recover just long enough to take years off your own life. Acid reflux is to blame according to the nurses and doctors. They say it will go away with time as will the A's and B's. Her 5pm feeding was adjusted to span over 40 minutes instead of the normal 30 to give her more time to digest. Again, we will keep you posted.