Mommy's "Birthday Promise" Letter

Audrey Grace,

     On your first birthday, I want to let you know one thing:

Daddy and I love you more than you will ever know.

     When I saw you for the first time, I had so many emotions I can’t even begin to describe each one. The best way I know how to describe those feelings as a whole are in two words: Unconditional Love. We waited nine long months to see your beautiful face. When you arrived… everyone was there because they all wanted to meet and fall in love with you… and we did.

     You are the happiest baby I’ve ever met. You bring such joy and laughter into our life! You smile, even when you are sick. It is very rare that you aren’t in a good mood, making us all laugh and smile with you. You see the world through rose-colored glasses, and I pray you never lose that optimism. Remember, while there are very bad things that are going on in our world right now, God made beautiful rainbows to remind us of His love for us.

     Mommy and Daddy can’t always be by your side, so know there is One who loves you more than us… He is your Creator, Heavenly Father, Savior, and Protector… He knew you before you were even born. He sent His Son, Jesus, to live a righteous life, and die for you so that someday you can sit in heaven and talk to Him, face to face.

     I pray that in years to come, Daddy and I raise you according to the Word and not according to the world. I know we will make mistakes, but know that regardless, we love you and will do our best to be humble and admit when we are wrong. We are human, and like you, we are learning as we go. It will be our first time raising a toddler, a 1^st grader, and a teenager, just like it will be your first time being a toddler, 1^st grader, and teenager. Luckily we have a Great Book of instruction, God’s Word, the Bible, to aid us in the direction we should go. When we discipline you, know it’s to make you a better steward of the life God has given you, not because we don’t love you. It is because we love you so much, that we have to discipline you.

     I cannot wait to watch you grow and learn and love. Remember that I am here to hold your hand through the joys and trials of this life. I promise to be your mother and not your friend (that’s a good thing). I promise to forgive you when you make mistakes as Christ forgives me when I make mistakes. I promise to love and respect your Daddy for as long as I live, because we took a covenant with God the day we said, “I do”. I promise to do my best to show you what a Godly wife and mother is. I promise to teach you God’s Word and how you can apply it to your life, everyday. I promise to make my life priority list: God First, Family Second, and Career Third. I promise to love you, forever.

Sincerely,

Mommy

Eleven Months

"The most important thing is to enjoy your life - to be happy - it's all that matters." Audrey Hepburn

 I Do Not like:
Being hungry
Not being the center of attention
The gate that keeps me from going up the stairs
Being sleepy
Not being able to see Mommy if she walks around the corner

Things I Love: 
Baba Black Sheep Nursery Rhyme
My bottle
My sippie cup
My first tooth brush
Any food!
Crawling
Pulling myself up
Walking with the walker toy
Peek-A-Boo
Tickling
Making "Poot" noises... thanks Daddy, Uncle D, RB, and Grandpa Jim-Jim for teaching me that!
Taking baths
Wagon Rides
Getting and giving kisses-- but not to stinky boys!
Playing with my friends at CLC!
Going UP the stairs
Trying to walk

Wordsworth:
"Mamamama" Mama
"Dadadadada" Dada
"Bababababa" Bottle
"Aaaahhhh" Screaming to get what I want.
"Mmmm-wah!" Kisses
"Mmmm" Yummy food or MORE FOOD NOW!
"Papapa" Paw-paw
"Cicicici" Cici
"Grrr"
"Ruff-ruff" Talking to the puppies- Jr Wunior and Hanky Panky
"Peek-a-boo" I can even play with you now with a blanket! 

Milestones:Early October: First Stomach Bug and Double Ear Infection -- that was NO fun!
October 17th: I took my first step!
October 26th: Cut my Third tooth (one of the top ones!)
October 29th: Drank a juice box through a straw! Sluuuurrrp!
October 31st: My FIRST Halloween!

November 1st: I took FIVE steps!

My baby sister is growing. Daddy felt her move for the first time this month and Mommy is feeling sweet Evelyn Merie move around a lot more often (and she's getting her least favorite preggo symptoms: back pain and round ligament pain). The Dr said Evelyn and Mommy are doing great! God is so good.

Since Mommy and Daddy are getting tired of me screaming when I want things (and they have caught on quick, those sneaky parents of mine), they have been working on sign language with me. I can sign 'more-please' and 'all done.'

This month (November), Daddy will be going to compete in an Army competition that his Unit chose him for... because he's so studly! Pray he does well and has a blast! Mommy and I are so proud of him.

Next post coming soon! My "Beautiful & Fabulous -- Breakfast at Audrey's" Birthday Party! 

I have my One-Year check-up at the beginning of December. Can't wait to see how much I've grown!

9 Months  (08/29/12)         
Weight  18 lbs  9.5 oz (45 %tile) 
Length  28.75 in (85 %tile)   
Head     17.38 in (54 %tile) 
Shots     HepB

6 Months  (05/29/12)         

Weight  16 lbs 3 oz (53 %tile) 

Length   26.75 in (82 %tile)   

Head     16.75 in (52 %tile) 

Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, (HepB), PCV13, Rotateq

4 Months  (03/30/12)         
Weight  13 lbs .5 oz (35%tile) 
Length   25.25 in (81 %tile)   
Head     16 in (39 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

2 Months  (01/24/12)         
Weight  10 lbs 10.5 oz (51%tile) 
Length   23.25 in (82 %tile)   
Head     15.13 in (46 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

1 Month  (12/29/11)         

Weight  9 lbs 1.5 oz (48%tile) 

Length  21.5 in (63%tile)   

Head     14.63 in (51%tile) 

Shots     HepB       

Newborn (11/28/11)

Weight  7 lbs 11.5 oz (62 %tile)

Length  20 in (75%tile)

Head     14 in (75%tile)

Shots     None   

MORE Tutus and Bows!

Mommy and Daddy found out last week that God will be blessing their lives with another little girl in February! Mommy is so excited and is already starting to plan my little sister's nursery. Daddy is so happy that I am very healthy, but I think he is nervous about all those boys that will be chasing after his girls!  Mommy had been looking at a few different nursery themes and decided on pretty yellow flowers.

Mommy is halfway there at 20 weeks pregnant! This week my sister is the size of a banana! I *love* bananas!

Last week, Mommy announced my gender to Mommy and Daddy's friends and family! We had a party at Fuddrucker's complete with "gender reveal cupcakes"! Check out the photos!

"I know something you don't knowwwww...."

Mommy painted her nails... boy or girl??

Red Fire Truck or Pink Fire Truck? Everyone picked a color to wear! Only Mommy and Grandpa Jim-Jim got it right!

Mommy made me a split red/pink fire truck outfit... I love to eat!

Cici won the draw... she got to open the cupcake...

PINK!!!

  

I got to help fill the cupcakes with PINK icing... Mommy let me have the beaters to taste! :-)

As you know from my past blogs... Mommy was on her own in thinking up girl's names because Daddy was *so* sure I was going to be a boy (that just shows you… go ahead and test God, His plans are usually different and *always* better than yours!).  A few days before we headed to the Sonographer's office, they agreed on the perfect name.

 
My baby sister's first name, Evelyn, is of Irish origin and means "life." They chose this particular name because it is very pretty and classic. Daddy wanted to name her after his grandmother, and they found out after Mommy fell in love with the name that it was is grandmother's middle name. To Mommy and Daddy, true life is spending time with the blessing of their family and children. Knowing our temporary body is going to be replaced with an eternal body when we spend eternity in heaven with the Creator of life. They hope that this will give Evelyn hope for her future, through trials-which she will face- knowing God is in control. Mommy and Daddy know this will become more evident to Evelyn once she is older and can understand how having faith in the Creator of life applies to her as a Princess of Christ.

*1 Corinthians 15:58 “So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.”

Her middle name, Merie, is of Hebrew origin, meaning "the perfect one." The different spelling (with an "e" rather than an "a") is to honor Mommy's grandmother, Betty Merle. Mommy and Daddy feel so blessed to be entrusted with yet another one of God's most precious creations. They also hope that they are able to raise her to live her life knowing she is not perfect but if she follows God's direction, His perfection will be glorified by her life.

*Colossians 3:23 " And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men"

I am so excited to meet my little sister and introduce her to our amazing family and friends. She will be here sooner than you can say Springtime!

My baby sister: Evelyn Merie Turnell (isn't she beautiful, like me?)

Ten Months

"If I'm honest I have to tell you I still read fairy-tales and I like them best of all." Audrey Hepburn

I Do Not like:
Being hungry
Not being the center of attention
The gate that keeps me from going up the stairs
Being sleepy
Not being able to see Mommy if she walks around the corner


Things I Love: 
Baba Black Sheep Nursery Rhyme
My bottle
My sippie cup
My first tooth brush
Any food!
Crawling
Pulling myself up
Walking with the walker toy (aka...Daddy)
Peek-A-Boo
Tickling
Making "Poot" noises... thanks Daddy, Uncle D, RB, and Grandpa Jim-Jim for teaching me that!
Taking baths
Wagon Rides
Playing with my friends at CLC!
Going UP the stairs

Wordsworth:
"Mamamama"
"Dadadadada"
"Bababababa"
"Aaaahhhh"
"Papapa"
"Grrr"
"Peek-a-boo" (Mom's pretty certain she heard me utter those words!)

Milestones:
September 3rd: 1st time being sick with fever :-( 
September 14th: My first Homecoming Parade and High School Football Game! Go Uncle D!
September 24th: 1st Wagon Ride / "Fishing Trip"
October 1st: Saw my sibling on the 3-D sono! The baby has mine and Mommy's nose!
October 3rd: Said "Peek-a-boo" pretty clear! 

Next post coming soon! Gender Reveal of my sweet sibling! :-)

9 Months  (08/29/12)         
Weight  18 lbs  9.5 oz (45 %tile) 
Length  28.75 in (85 %tile)   
Head     17.38 in (54 %tile) 
Shots     HepB

6 Months  (05/29/12)         

Weight  16 lbs 3 oz (53 %tile) 

Length   26.75 in (82 %tile)   

Head     16.75 in (52 %tile) 

Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, (HepB), PCV13, Rotateq

4 Months  (03/30/12)         
Weight  13 lbs .5 oz (35%tile) 
Length   25.25 in (81 %tile)   
Head     16 in (39 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

2 Months  (01/24/12)         
Weight  10 lbs 10.5 oz (51%tile) 
Length   23.25 in (82 %tile)   
Head     15.13 in (46 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

1 Month  (12/29/11)         

Weight  9 lbs 1.5 oz (48%tile) 

Length  21.5 in (63%tile)   

Head     14.63 in (51%tile) 

Shots     HepB       

Newborn (11/28/11)

Weight  7 lbs 11.5 oz (62 %tile)

Length  20 in (75%tile)

Head     14 in (75%tile)

Shots     None   

Nine Months

"I've been lucky. Opportunities don't often come along. So, when they do, you have to grab them." Audrey Hepburn 

I Do Not like:
Being hungry
Not being the center of attention
Being sleepy
Getting stuck... now that I'm on the move it happens a lot.

Things I Love:
My bottle
My sippie cup
Dominoes
My first tooth brush
Cheerios
Bananas, Peaches, Watermelon, Peas... pretty much anything I can get into my mouth!
Gnawing on Tortillas/Rolls
Playing and jumping in my exersaucer
Crawling
Pulling myself up
Walking with the walker toy
Peek-A-Boo
Tickling
Making "Poot" noises... thanks Daddy, Uncle D, RB, and Grandpa Jim-Jim for teaching me that!
Taking baths
SWIMMING!
Taking walks with Mommy and Daddy
Playing with my friends at the gym!
Playing with my puppy friends: Jr., Vadar, Mickey, Jake, Hank, and Diesel
Fake crying to try to trick Mommy and Daddy into getting what I want... it's not really working on them though... I'll just try it on the Grands! 

Wordsworth:
"Mamamama"
"Dadadadada"
"Bababababa"
"Aaaahhhh"
"Grrr"

Milestones:
July 24th: Saw my baby brother or sister for the first time on the sono! 
August 10th: Started eating meat!

August 14th: Walked with the walker toy...
August 28th: 1st Day of CLC! I've already made some pretty cool friends.
September 3rd: 1st time being sick with fever :-( 

I start CLC/School again this month! I will get to move up to the big babies room with Mommy's friend Brittney from church. I am so excited to meet new friends! Mommy is teaching a class this year, she is excited (and busy making those lesson plans and decorating her room... in Ladybugs of course!). Mommy is also "busy" preparing for my FIRST BIRTHDAY PARTY! Mommy and Daddy decided to complete one or two tasks per week so they don't get bogged down in the party and remember *I* am the one who's turning ONE! :-)

I got to see and hear my little brother or sister's heartbeat! The Dr said the heart rate is slow, so, Old Wives say it may be a boy! We find out October 1st at the Sonogram. While we were there, the Dr said he or she is measuring a week early (meaning Mommy has a fast-growing baby inside her belly)! Right now, the baby is the size of an Orange, (but may be bigger since the books say the baby is supposed to be 2 oz this week and last week the baby measured 3 oz...). Mommy is showing a little (think little league basketball) and I've been giving her belly lots of raspberries lately!! I've been telling him/her secrets about making sure to practice breathing and moving around, I think the baby is listening, too!

9 Months  (08/29/12)         
Weight  18 lbs  9.5 oz (45 %tile) 
Length  28.75 in (85 %tile)   
Head     17.38 in (54 %tile) 
Shots     HepB

6 Months  (05/29/12)         

Weight  16 lbs 3 oz (53 %tile) 

Length   26.75 in (82 %tile)   

Head     16.75 in (52 %tile) 

Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, (HepB), PCV13, Rotateq

4 Months  (03/30/12)         
Weight  13 lbs .5 oz (35%tile) 
Length   25.25 in (81 %tile)   
Head     16 in (39 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

2 Months  (01/24/12)         
Weight  10 lbs 10.5 oz (51%tile) 
Length   23.25 in (82 %tile)   
Head     15.13 in (46 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

1 Month  (12/29/11)         

Weight  9 lbs 1.5 oz (48%tile) 

Length  21.5 in (63%tile)   

Head     14.63 in (51%tile) 

Shots     HepB       

Newborn (11/28/11)

Weight  7 lbs 11.5 oz (62 %tile)

Length  20 in (75%tile)

Head     14 in (75%tile)

Shots     None   

The Many Faces of Audrey

Hello family and friends! I just wanted to pop by with a super fun post!
Check out all of my "faces!" 

My "DIVA" Face

 My "There's BEAVERS in the River-walk?" Face

 My "Super Happy" Face

  My "I have a secret" Face

 My "Bo Derek" Face

My "I'M GONNA BE A BIG SISTER!!" Face 

"Oops... they did it again!" 

That's right! Mommy and Daddy found out that Mommy has a surprise growing in her tummy! The Dr. said my little brother or sister will be here at the end of February!

Mommy told me this: "This is scary for Mommy and Daddy! Two babies not even 15 months apart! Your surprise brother or sister was not in our plan, but he or she was always in God's perfect plan! Mommy and Daddy are so happy and blessed! I am so excited for you! You are going to have someone your age to play with and confide in... and you will be the best big sister, ever!"   

I can't wait!  

Eight Months

"I was born with an enormous need for affection, and a terrible need to give it." Audrey Hepburn

I Do Not like:
Being hungry
Bright lights
Not being the center of attention
Mommy or Daddy leaving me... even to make my food or a bottle.
Being sleepy
Getting stuck... now that I'm on the move it happens a lot.

Things I Love:
My bottle
My sippie cup
Noise Making Toys
Mommy's homemade baby food
Cheerios
Bananas, Peaches, Watermelon, Peas... pretty much anything I can get into my mouth!
Gnawing on Tortillas/Rolls
Playing and jumping in my exersaucer
Army crawling
Crawling
Trying to pull myself up
Peek-A-Boo
Tickling
Making "Poot" noises... thanks Daddy, Uncle D, RB, and Grandpa Jim-Jim for teaching me that!
Taking baths
SWIMMING!
Taking walks with Mommy and Daddy
Playing with my puppy friends: Jr., Vadar, Mickey, Jake, Hank, and Diesel
Sitting up on my own
Pulling up in my crib -- Daddy lowered it when Mommy found me trying to jump ship!
Fake crying to try to trick Mommy and Daddy into getting what I want... it's not really working on them though... I'll just try it on the Grands! 

Wordsworth:
"Mamamama"
"Dadadadada"
"Bababababa"
"Aaaahhhh"
"Grrr"

Milestones:
July 1st: Started crawling... a lot!

July 3rd: Aunt Britt-Britt gave me my first Oreo! It was so good! I looked like Jr when it was "gone"!!
July 14th: Pulled myself up with the help of the coffee table.
July 19th: Got my first tooth brush from Aunt Britt-Britt and my soon-to-be dental hygienist Ms. Angela! I was also taped to be in a promo/commercial for the first time. I may be a TV star! ;-P

I am growing and achieving so much these days! Mommy says I'm as tall as some of the two-year-olds she teaches! I'm also starting to test the "discipline waters." I zoom off to put a computer cord or some other dangerous thing in my mouth and look back to make sure Mommy and Daddy are watching, give a "I know I'm not supposed to do this look," then in my mouth it goes! I'm not sure what this new word "No!" is, but I don't think I'm going to like it! I am also a crawling super star. Man I can move! Why didn't I start this sooner?!

A few weeks ago, Mommy hurt her foot exercising, so she's had a rough time chasing me around and climbing up and down the stairs.The Dr said she needs to stay off of it for another month so the fracture can heal. Last week, Daddy had his Graduation ceremony where he gave the best Valedictorian speech. Mommy and I are *so* proud of him! Our hero!

I don't go see my Dr again until I'm 9 months, but I have definitely gotten much taller since my last visit.

6 Months  (05/29/12)         
Weight  16 lbs 3 oz (53 %tile) 
Length   26.75 in (82 %tile)   
Head     16.75 in (52 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, (HepB), PCV13, Rotateq

4 Months  (03/30/12)         
Weight  13 lbs .5 oz (35%tile) 
Length   25.25 in (81 %tile)   
Head     16 in (39 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

2 Months  (01/24/12)         
Weight  10 lbs 10.5 oz (51%tile) 
Length   23.25 in (82 %tile)   
Head     15.13 in (46 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

1 Month  (12/29/11)         

Weight  9 lbs 1.5 oz (48%tile) 

Length  21.5 in (63%tile)   

Head     14.63 in (51%tile) 

Shots     HepB       

Newborn (11/28/11)

Weight  7 lbs 11.5 oz (62 %tile)

Length  20 in (75%tile)

Head     14 in (75%tile)

Shots     None   

Seven Months

" I never think of myself as an icon. What is in other people's minds is not in my mind. I just do my thing." Audrey Hepburn

I Do Not like:
Being hungry
Bright lights
My teeth coming in
Not being the center of attention
Mommy leaving me... even to make my food or a bottle

Things I Love:
My bottle
Noise Making Toys
Mommy's homemade baby food
Cheerios
Gnawing on Bread or Tortillas
Playing and jumping in my exersaucer
Army crawling
Peek-A-Boo
Tickling
Making "Poot" noises... thanks Daddy, Uncle D, RB, and Grandpa Jim-Jim for teaching me that!
Taking baths
Taking walks with Mommy and Daddy
Sitting up on my own

Wordsworth:
"Mamamama"
"Dadadadada"
"Bababababa"
"Aaaahhhh"

Milestones:June 14th: 1st Cheerio
June 24th: Cut my first tooth!

I won't have a Dr appointment until Month 9, but I am growing and developing! Mommy can tell because I'm getting heavier, gaining teeth, and picking things up with my fingers (instead of my whole hand), and getting sad when she leaves. I recognize my awesome Grandparents and squeal and smile when they show up! My family is the best!

6 Months  (05/29/12)         
Weight  16 lbs 3 oz (53 %tile) 
Length   26.75 in (82 %tile)   
Head     16.75 in (52 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, (HepB), PCV13, Rotateq

4 Months  (03/30/12)         
Weight  13 lbs .5 oz (35%tile) 
Length   25.25 in (81 %tile)   
Head     16 in (39 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

2 Months  (01/24/12)         
Weight  10 lbs 10.5 oz (51%tile) 
Length   23.25 in (82 %tile)   
Head     15.13 in (46 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

1 Month  (12/29/11)         

Weight  9 lbs 1.5 oz (48%tile) 

Length  21.5 in (63%tile)   

Head     14.63 in (51%tile) 

Shots     HepB       

Newborn (11/28/11)

Weight  7 lbs 11.5 oz (62 %tile)

Length  20 in (75%tile)

Head     14 in (75%tile)

Shots     None   

Six Months

" I love people who make me laugh. I honestly think it's the thing I like most, to laugh. It cures a multitude of ills. 
It's probably the most important thing in a person." Audrey Hepburn

I Do Not like:
Being hungry
Bright lights
Spitting up...Mommy doesn't like it either! But I'm starting to do better.
My teeth coming in
Allergies
Mom grabbing my boogies with the booger grabber!

Things I Love:
My bottle
My "Jesus Loves Me" bunny
Playing with my toys! I can grab those things now--on purpose!
ALL baby food
Gnawing on Bread, Tortillas, and homemade potato fries
Playing and jumping in my exersaucer
Rolling across the floor
Peek-A-Boo
Tickling
Rocking on all fours (watch out Mama-mama! I'm getting ready to crawl!)
Being a boat! 
Taking baths
"Singing" and "Talking" - If I hear music I will sing with it!
Music and funny noises
Gnawing on my hands, or anything for that matter (these teeth coming in hurt!)
Taking walks with Mommy and Daddy
Scooting across the floor on my back
Trying to Army Crawl!!
Sitting up on my own
Saying "mama-mama"... I think Mommy loves it more than I do!

Milestones:
May 6th: Said "Mama"
May 11th: Sat up by myself
May 11th: Played the baby piano
May 13th: First "pool" experience
May 18th: Daddy Graduated Dallas Fire Academy! I'm a Fire Fighter's baby! Whooo!
May 25th: First Pro Photo Shoot (I love that camera!)
May 26th: First SPLASH! Day

6 Months  (05/29/12)         
Weight  16 lbs 3 oz (53 %tile) 
Length   26.75 in (82 %tile)   
Head     16.75 in (52 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, (HepB), PCV13, Rotateq

4 Months  (03/30/12)         
Weight  13 lbs .5 oz (35%tile) 
Length   25.25 in (81 %tile)   
Head     16 in (39 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

2 Months  (01/24/12)         
Weight  10 lbs 10.5 oz (51%tile) 
Length   23.25 in (82 %tile)   
Head     15.13 in (46 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

1 Month  (12/29/11)         

Weight  9 lbs 1.5 oz (48%tile) 

Length  21.5 in (63%tile)   

Head     14.63 in (51%tile) 

Shots     HepB       

Newborn (11/28/11)

Weight  7 lbs 11.5 oz (62 %tile)

Length  20 in (75%tile)

Head     14 in (75%tile)

Shots     None   

Five Months

"I heard a definition once: Happiness is health and a short memory! 
I wish I'd invented it, because it is very true." Audrey Hepburn

I Do Not like:
The "Peter Cotton Tail" Easter bunny. Those crazy ears are SCARY!
Being gassy
Being hungry
Bright lights
Spitting up...Mommy doesn't like it either! But I'm starting to do better.
My teeth coming in
Diaper Rashes (I had my first really bad one and it took a few days to make it better-- note to self: do not poop in diaper while sleeping)

Things I Love:
My bottle
My "Jesus Loves Me" bunny
Playing with my toys! I can grab those things now--on purpose!
Bananas
Bananas w/ Avocados
Squash
Green Beans
Apple Juice
White Grape Juice
Carrots
Peaches
Gnawing on Bread
Gnawing on homemade potato fries
Playing on my play mat
Rolling across the floor
Peek-A-Boo
Tickling
Being a boat! 
Taking baths
"Singing" and "Talking" - If I hear music I will sing with it!
Music and funny noises
Gnawing on my hands, or anything for that matter (these teeth coming in hurt!)
Taking walks with Mommy and Daddy
Going to school (CLC)! It's so much fun to play with my friends and teachers! Plus I get to make super cute crafts!
Scooting across the floor on my back
Trying to Army Crawl!!

Milestones:
April 6th: Rolling over... and over and over... across the floor!
April 8th: First Easter! 
April 10th: Tried Avocados... but I didn't like it so Mommy put in a little banana. I love it!
April 16th: 1st Sit up!
April 17th: Mommy noticed me trying to crawl! She better get ready to run to keep up with me!
April 20th: FIRST Pedicure! I love my Pink Sparkly Toes... & I held my bottle on my own!
April 21st: I am getting up on my knees and rocking back and forth... so close to being OUTTA HERE!
April 26th: I tried the Army Crawl!

I have been driving my Mommy crazy while keeping her up with my tossing and turning all night and waking up at very weird hours (sometimes midnight, sometimes 3am, or 5 am...). My teeth hurt and I'm learning to flip over which wakes me up...then I realize I'm starving so Mommy has to feed me when I won't cry myself back to sleep. Hopefully these crazy nights will end soon so I can get some sleep (oh... and Mommy, too)!
The week before Easter, Mommy got sick (kidney/bladder infection) and had to be in the hospital for about 3 days. Though I was sad Mommy wasn't feeling well, I got to hang out with Grandma Jennie, Grandpa Jim, and Uncle Dave! I had so much fun!! I also got to meet a bunch of "new" family members over Easter! I have a huge family... how am I ever going to remember all of these names?! I got to see Grandma Turnell (Daddy's Grandma) this month. She isn't doing so great these days, but I love to spend time with her! A girl can't have too many Grandmas and Great-Grandmas!
For the past couple of months, when he has time, Daddy has been working on making a half-wall to separate Mommy's craft room from the foyer (partly for design and partly to make it easier to keep my cute self out since there's scary things in there like needles and irons and string!). He better get a move on it because I am about to be movin' and groovin', getting very curious about the rest of the house! (Time to get those gates installed on the stairs, too!)
I do not have a Dr appointment this month (thank goodness!). I will have an appointment at 6 months though! I hope they don't give me any shots, but if they do I get to collect another rubber duckie for my collection!!!

Four Months

"I believe in manicures. I believe in overdressing. I believe in primping at leisure and wearing lipstick. I believe in pink. I believe happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day, and... I believe in miracles."
Audrey Hepburn

I Do Not like:
Wet/dirty diaper
Being wet without a towel
Being gassy
Being hungry
Bright lights
Being strapped into my car seat (but then once I'm in the car or taking a stroll in the stroller, I'm ok)
Spitting up...Mommy doesn't like it either!
My teeth coming in
I am scared of people wearing glasses

Things I Love:
My bottle
Playing with my toys! I can grab those things now!
Bananas
Playing on my play mat
Peek-A-Boo
Tickling
Taking baths
"Singing" and "Talking" - If I hear music I will sing with it!
Music and funny noises
Gnawing on my hands (these teeth coming in hurt!)
Taking walks
Rolling over
Watch people walking across the room... sometimes I will even try smiling to get their attention!

Milestones:
March 1st: Started taking a little baby cereal in my bottle
March 7th: Two bottom and top teeth starting to root in!
March 9th: Sitting assisted by my Boppy...
March 15th: Sitting up with Boppy and in highchair
March 20th: Stopped taking my paci on my own...
March 22nd: First big girl food: Banana--in my mesh paci!
March 30th: Put all pacis in storage!
March 28th: I am trying to hard to roll over from back to belly! I get halfway there!

This month I have to go to the Dr and get MORE shots...not fun. But it's important the Dr checks to make sure I am still healthy! My next appointment is at 6 months! Mommy really wants me to stop growing so fast, but I can't wait to explore the world on my feet!

4 Months  (03/30/12)         
Weight  13 lbs .5 oz (35%tile) 
Length   25.25 in (81 %tile)   
Head     16 in (39 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

2 Months  (01/24/12)         
Weight  10 lbs 10.5 oz (51%tile) 
Length   23.25 in (82 %tile)   
Head     15.13 in (46 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

1 Month  (12/29/11)         

Weight  9 lbs 1.5 oz (48%tile) 

Length  21.5 in (63%tile)   

Head     14.63 in (51%tile) 

Shots     HepB       

Newborn (11/28/11)

Weight  7 lbs 11.5 oz (62 %tile)

Length  20 in (75%tile)

Head     14 in (75%tile)

Shots     None   

Three Months

"For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone." Audrey Hepburn

I'm not a newborn anymore! I am a bonafide infant at *three* months old! That means I'm a fourth of the way through my first year of life! Mommy wants me to stop growing up *so* fast!

My startle reflex is starting to fade away this month and I am gaining more control over my movements. I am so strong that I'm able to hold my head up and look around and I can also use my arms to hold my chest up during tummy time to look around. I have even scared myself a little when I flip over onto my back from my tummy (I can flip to the left and right), but Mommy laughs and smiles when I do, so it quickly becomes funny and not so scary. I can also kick pretty hard and bounce a little when Mommy or Daddy hold me up. My hands are starting to open and shut (which is pretty fun to watch). I even surprise myself when I accidentally grab onto my toys.

I am sleeping through the night (bed time is 8:30 pm until about 8:00 am) and I've started staying up for most of the day except for a cat nap here and there and a nice long 2-3 hour nap in the early afternoon.

I also definitely recognize Mommy and Daddy when I see them and since I see my grandparents so much, I recognize them, too! They love it when I use that big toothless grin to melt their hearts when I see them! I can also recognize Mommy and Daddy's voice... they can tell because I get quiet when I hear them and even look around for them. Another thing I smile at... my bottle!

I have started "talking," too! I like to make "ooos" and "ahhhs" and "hiii" sounds when I'm happy and want to talk. I also love to look at my face in the mirror and make silly faces. I really love to get strapped into the stroller and go for walks with Mommy, Daddy, Jr, and Hank, too. Another REALLY cute thing I'm doing now... LAUGHING! Mommy and Daddy think it is SO funny, and I think they are SO funny, so we all just laugh and laugh and laugh! This circle of laughter is so much better than the circle of tears Mommy and I went through in month one!


Mommy and Daddy can definitely see my personality and moods: grumpy, happy, curious, excited, and fussy.

I am growing so much, but this month I don't have to go to the doctor (thank goodness, they always poke me with needles and it's so RUDE!). My diapers bumped up to size 2 this month! AND I am no longer able to fit into the 3 month old footies, so I'm in size 6-9 month footies (I have long legs like my ma'ma!). I've also been trying out rice cereal every once in a while, and I really like that stuff! I can't wait to try that stuff they call steak, though!

Mommy got a new job at the church as a pre-K teacher, which means I get to go play and make some friends in the nursery a couple times a week! I've been having so much fun!  

Next month will be a big month for me, I will have my 4-month Dr visit and she will let Mommy know whether or not I can start eating more cereal and baby foods... Daddy will be happy if I do get to eat more cereal and other food because that means we won't be spending *as* much on formula.

This month Mommy and Daddy dedicated me to the Lord at our church. Uncle Dave surprised me by flying in from Pittsburgh! I was so happy to see all of my favorite people at my dedication! Great-Grams, Shark, Grandpa Jim, Larry (aka-Grandma Jennie), Great-Great Aunt Judy, Great-Great Uncle Dan, Cici, RB, Uncle Dave, and Uncle D all came out for this awesome event.

Two Months

"As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others." Audrey Hepburn

Here's what I've been up to in month TWO:

I am now 100% formula fed... but my tummy is pretty sensitive, so I am on "sensitive" formula. Mommy and Cici were concerned about how much I've been spiting up and the fact that I get colicky/gassy after I eat. After we made the switch from regular formula to sensitive formula, Mommy and Cici decided to try out the Dr Brown's bottles, binkys, and Colic Calm drops. I feel a lot better, now.

I had my first over-night stay without Mommy and Daddy while they went on a "staycation" at the MD Resort gratis Grandma and Grandpa Turnell. They said they had fun and got some much needed sleep and relaxation. I got to stay at Cici's and play with Cici, the squishy face kitty, Zoe, Uncle D and RB for a couple of days. I also made a trip to Dallas to visit Great Grams and Shark and Great Uncle Craig. Back in Prosper, I heard some strange noises coming from outside, Cici says they are chickens and I will get to meet them when I'm old enough!
 Grandma Jennie and Grandpa Jim came to get me on Sunday and I played at their house with all of their dogs (Jake, Vadar, and Mickey) and saw Grandma Jennie's goats and sheep... I can't wait to feed them when I'm old enough!! Mommy and Daddy did pretty well leaving me for the first time... though I think the pictures and videos Cici send Mommy helped her.

I am smiling a lot more now and even making sweet squealing and giggling noises when I'm really happy. I love when Daddy steals my nose and play's "This Little Piggy" with my toes and I love when Mommy plays the "Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes" singing game. 

I recognize Mommy's voice when she comes to get me out of bed in the morning...I get really quiet because I love to listen when she sings the "Good Morning Song" and gives me morning kisses. 
I have been sleeping through the night (though Mommy doesn't like to brag for fear that it will end). After Mommy and I go through my bedtime routine (eating, bath, playtime, then cuddle/reading time) Mommy puts me to bed around 9:30 pm and I sleep through the night until about 7:30 am (usually I sleep 8.5-9.5 hours). 
In the middle of my 6th week of life I decided that it's really fun when Mommy puts me in bed to push myself up on my arms and look around. I also have better control over my head, so I can look around when Mommy or Daddy hold me. I am also starting to test the waters of flipping to my back. I scare myself when I do get from my tummy to my back. I am also slithering around on my tummy when I'm in bed or on the floor for my "tummy time." 
I can also "walk" when Daddy holds me up on his chest... getting stronger every day. 
I really like to "sit" in my Boppy pillow or on Mommy or Daddy's lap to look around.

Almost overnight, I outgrew all of my newborn clothes, so I am now in 3-6 month sizes... but I had another growth spurt, so I'm almost busting out of my 3 month footies! 
I celebrated the last few days before my 2 month birthday with a stuffy nose and not feeling good. Mommy did not like me not feeling good because there is really nothing she can do about it other than attack my nose with the booger grabber--which I hate--and rub my chest with baby vicks. I think this stuffy nose-ness has convinced Mommy and Daddy to get a humidifier soon, though.
Month Two Dr. Visit:
           

2 Months  (01/24/12)         
Weight  10 lbs 10.5 oz (51%tile) 
Length   23.25 in (82 %tile)   
Head     15.13 in (46 %tile) 
Shots     DTap, IPV, HiB, HepB, PCV13, Rotateq

1 Month  (12/29/11)         

Weight  9 lbs 1.5 oz (48%tile) 

Length  21.5 in (63%tile)   

Head     14.63 in (51%tile) 

Shots     HepB       

Newborn (11/28/11)

Weight  7 lbs 11.5 oz (62 %tile)

Length  20 in (75%tile)

Head     14 in (75%tile)

Shots     None   

One Month

"I decided, very early on, just to accept life unconditionally; I never expected it to do anything special for me, yet I seemed to accomplish far more than I had ever hoped. Most of the time it just happened to me without my ever seeking it."   Audrey Hepburn

Whew! It has been one crazy month, I must say.
The first couple of weeks were pretty rough, since I was learning how to sleep, eat, and potty. I think I have the hang of it now. I eat about 3-4 ounces per feeding, and I eat about 8-10 times each day. Mommy breast fed me for the first 3 weeks, but because I have latch-on problems that leave Mommy crying with pain (and me crying with frustration... followed by Mommy crying with frustration... followed by me crying because Mommy's is upset --what a cycle!), I am now on formula. Because of the crazy cycle of tears, Mommy started pumping and bottle feeding me breast milk and supplements with formula but that made Mommy produce less milk, so I am now a formula fed baby. Mommy felt pretty guilty at first, but now she is really glad she gets to enjoy spending those sweet moments feeding me.

Mommy and Daddy are glad that I am such a good baby... I usually only cry when I am hungry, need a diaper change, if I am gassy, or really tired. Otherwise, I am a content baby, looking around or sleeping. Mommy spends so much time with me that she can usually tell what I am crying about... that's some Mommy skills!

My vision is getting better and better. I am focusing on Mommy and Daddy's face and I started looking at the mobile birds flying above my swing and I love to lay on my play mat and look at the mirror and dangling things. I am also starting to "talk," though Mommy thinks I sound more like a little piglet with my grunts, thus my recent nickname "Mommy's Little Piglet." I also make really cute sighing and cooing noises when I am eating (and content) or when I'm cuddling with Mommy and Daddy as I fall asleep. I make everyone laugh when I grunt really loud and it's followed by a diaper explosion! I am getting pretty strong, too. I can hold my head up for a while now when being held or when working out (aka-Tummy Time). I started sucking my thumb, too... but I still don't really pay too much attention to my hands or feet (unless I need to suck on my hands while waiting to be fed). I have also been smiling. The first couple of weeks I "smiled" with my mouth only ("they" say it was just gas though), but as of recently, I will smile with my whole face in response to Mommy and Daddy's smile or when Daddy steals my nose or when Mommy sings the "Good Morning" song or gives me sweet smooches!

I sleep pretty well for a one month old. I go to bed around 10:00-10:30pm and wake up around 4:00-4:30am to eat, and then I go back to sleep for a few hours. One of my and Mommy's favorite morning activities is our cuddle time. Sometimes we sleep, but sometimes we just lay in bed cuddling and playing.
I have a short colicky period toward the end of the day, but it only lasts for about 15-20 minutes during the time when Dad gets home. There's just so much going on around this time of day (4:30-5:30pm), I get frustrated and over-stimulated, so Mommy has to plan dinner after this time since the only thing that really makes me happy is to cuddle with her. After I calm down, I take a short nap (which is perfect for Mom and Dad since they get to eat while I sleep).
When I wake up, it's time to play with Daddy - I've missed him all day and I love it when he plays with me. Sometimes he takes my nose (how does he do that?!) and I think it is *so* funny.
Mommy has been trying to get me on a bed-time schedule/routine. We start off by playing with Daddy for a little while in Mommy and Daddy's bed while Mommy gets my bath, bed, and food all situated. Then I get in the bath, which I love... it's so warm and relaxing, I really love the lavender bath bubbles. Then Mommy gives me a nice massage (she figured out that if she does this while I'm still in the tub it's not so cold with the lotion and I enjoy it more). Then Mommy wraps me up in my towel like a little burrito and puts me in my PJ's while she gives me lots and lots of kisses. We say goodnight to Daddy (if he's not already asleep) and head into my room to read a bedtime story or listen to lullaby music while I eat, and then Mommy puts me in my bed and I fall right to sleep.

Month One Dr. Visit:
The Dr. says I am beautiful and doing great (and that Mommy and Daddy are doing a great job).
                          
Newborn (11/28/11)
Weight  7lbs 11.5 oz (62 %tile)
Length  20 in (75%tile)   
Head     14 in (75%tile) 
Shots     None   
1 Month  (12/29/11)         
Weight  9lbs 1.5 oz (48%tile) 
Length  21.5 in (63%tile)   
Head     14.63 in (51%tile) 
Shots     HepB