Letters to Emersyn - 8 Months Old

Dear Emersyn!

Today you are eight months old! Goodness gracious, EIGHT months! I might as well start planning your 1st birthday. You will soon realize I am a planner and love hosting things. I have given it some honest thought though, I'm keeping with the Kate Spade theme. So your Birthday party with me black, white, gold and a hint of hot pink! Just like your bedroom....your baby shower was the same theme too.

Every day seems to go faster and faster, making us suddenly at eight months. Your continuing to change before my very eyes and you continue to become more fun everyday. This month, you ceased to be my tiny baby girl and became what I refer to you as, "my grown up baby.

This month you started sitting up and you also became mobile. You started crawling and exploring and going after what you want. You no longer lay on the floor playing with toys, but instead seek after whatever you can see and reach. These things tend to be on the dangerous side - the fireplace, electrical outlets, and power cords. The house is already child-proof, but you are continuing to keep us on our toes.

And as if crawling weren't enough, you have also learned to pull yourself up. You stand in your crib. Your pulling up on all the furniture. You even moved between two objects while standing yesterday. Stop that! Stop that behavior that resembles walking. You are my wittle bitty baby!

You are becoming so much more aware of yourself and of your surroundings. You're curiosity gets the best of you, especially when shopping with mommy and grandma - you just look around and take in your surroundings with such wonderment. But it seems like you are happy to go along on any adventure. You love playing with your toes and putting them in your mouth. You only have 2 teeth but you are drooling buckets and leaving puddles. When you see food, you must have it. Your favorites would have to be honey crisp apples and sweet potatoes too. You did get your first taste of some water and aloe. You loved it, just like your sister. Bath time has become so fun with you. You had your first bath in grandmas sink. I think you were a little confused but quickly had fun splashing the water everywhere. Now that you can sit up unassisted your enjoying things a lot more.

We don't see the pediatrician till next month, but I am guessing your roughly 15lbs. You were 13lbs in September. You can wear anything from 3 to 6 months clothes. Anything bigger then that is still too big. We have graduated up to size 3 diapers, but you still have lots of room to grow in them. I have a feeling you will be in those for a while, your sister was. We are still struggling with shoes. Unfortunately you have wide feet like your sister, so finding shoes that fit are not easy. We have a few pairs for Charleston that fit you. Your not so sure about them. Your only getting used to having socks on your feet too.

During the week, we stay fairly busy outside the house. We have our mommy and me workouts we go to. I think its your favorite time of the day, you get so many cuddles from everyone and you can now chase all the kids around the studio. I'm sure this is were you are learning all those big kid things like crawling, pulling up and almost walking. You sleep so well afterwards. Usually about 2 hours. When you wake up, I always hear you cooing and babbling away in your crib. Your night sleep schedule has changed a little though, you like to get up between 4 and 5 to get a bottle, but quickly go back to sleep to about 7:30ish when your sister wakes up and runs in to give you hugs and kisses. You love everything about her. She can always make you giggle...its so cute.

Life with you at eight months old couldn't be any better. You are such a happy baby and you and your sister can charm us all day long with those giggles and smiles. The love you have for your sister and even your puppy is amazing. I am looking forward to the Holiday season with you and your sister as we do a bit of traveling.

I love you sweet girl.

Letters to Emersyn - 7 Months Old

Dear Emersyn,

You are 7months old. This number blows my mind! When did you get so big? But your still so little! We don’t see the doctor this month.. but from your previous appointment - I’m guessing your roughly 14lbs. Which I believe Charleston was 16lbs at 7months. So your a little smaller. 

Your still in 3-6months clothes & size 3 diapers. 

You have ventured into the world of solid foods. You love Honey Crisp Apples, Pears, Pumkin & Sweet Potatoes. You were not too sure of the mangos. So we will try those again later. You did try some quacamole and you loved it. Of course! It’s so good! You even had your first taste of an Herbalife Shake! Your eyes got so big and you wanted more and more! Once you figure out how to use a straw I’m sure I will have you fighting for my shakes too! Your two bottom front teeth are completely in now - although you would think your ready for reg food. Your always grabbing for it. 

You are now mobile. You army crawl like a pro. I know it will only be days before you get this crawling thing down. You are so determined to do everything Charleston does! You have really figured out how to use those hands and feet. Grabbing and kicking everything. Your just like your big sister at this age. You love for me to carry you so you can hold on to the shopping cart. I think we’re going to have another shopper on our hands. You also started pulling up on things this past month and sitting up a little on your own. I’m going to need you to slow down just a tad. Your growing way to fast. 

Your still sleeping like pro at night. Usually asleep before 8 and your up at 6:30 to eat, but sometimes fall back asleep after you eat. You always wake up happy and ready to start the days. You have started fighting naptime some, but sleep usually wins. Your naps can last anywhere from an hour to 3hours. Now if I could get yours and Charleston nap to overlap some so I can get some work done. A mom can only hope right?!?! Lol. 

Oh sweet girl! I know I can not stop or slow time down! All I ask is you stay a baby as long as you can! I love watching you grow and see your little personality shine through! I absolutely love watching you and your sister become best friends! I am blessed to be your mommy! 

Love you always! 

Letters to Emersyn - 6 Months Old

My little Emersyn! 

At six months you’re as eager as ever to get moving. You’re frustrated when you can’t reach things and let out a yelp of irritation. You’re happiest on your belly, kicking around and pulling yourself in a circle as you try (and try and try) to navigate your way across the room. Whenever I put you down to play on your back you roll over and often twist yourself around like a baby compass. Your little legs never stop kicking. Even when you’re sleeping you move so much – often waking yourself up. You can get up on all 4 now, but you have not officially started crawling yet. I give it a month and you will be all over the place. Slow down little one, stay still a little longer.

We don't see the pediatrician till Wednesday so for your unofficial numbers.. you weigh roughly 12.5 pounds. Your still wearing 3month clothes and size 2 diapers but I think we're about to move you up to size 3. You do so much better with hair bows then Charleston ever did! Yay, bc we have so many. Lol. We did try a pair of shoes the other day - you were very confused on what was on your feet! But they stayed on for the most part. We will just have to keep working with them. 

And sweet girl, you don’t know it, but you have a sister who watches over you from heaven. Her name is Payton and she would have been 3 years old this month. She didn’t make it though, and that makes Mommy and Daddy very sad. But we are lucky to have such a sweet little guardian angel to take care of you and Charleston. 

Mommy and Daddy are so glad that you found us. I never could’ve imagined that you would be so perfect! I LOVE your head full of Aubrun hair, and you look just like me! Makes your daddy mad both of you girls look like me! I tell people I plan on taking over the world by cloning little mini me's! You girls may look like me, but you do have some of your daddy's traits. You both have his wide feet! Ughhh! Makes it hard for finding shoes that fit. Charleston got Daddy's curls, we will soon find out if you got them as well. But it looks like you will have super fine hair like me. Charleston does too. Your has more red then hers! Which I love. Your grandma Sherri has red hair. I have red highlights, I was hoping one of you girls would have red hair so we will see how things change as you grow. 

We haven't officially started you on solid foods yet but we did give you some sweet potatoes and boy did you love them!!! Avacodos are my first choice of foods to start you on, so we will see what foods you like here soon. 

Don't grow too fast sweet girl. Mommy loves you! 

Letters to Emersyn - 5 Months Old

Dear Emersyn! 

You’ve started to laugh and it lights up the whole room when you do! Your generous smile (you always have one for Mommy!) is what keeps me going, even when you wake me in the middle of night, which is a rare occasion. And it's usually only bc you lost your pacifier. 

Your a happy baby. You smile all the time, and giggle too. This month I've seen you fall so in love with your sister. She's your favorite person. She does a little dance, and you crack up. You watch her every move all over the house. 

You get so excited about life sometimes that you squeal at the top of your little lungs! You’ve also just started to blow raspberries and spit bubbles. You’re fascinated by the world around you and you like to learn about thing by putting them in your mouth to feel what there all about. Your drooling puddles but I haven't seen any teeth break through. 

You love being on your changing table, and your tiny toes always seem to make their way to your mouth when you’re on it. I think they taste best at a higher altitude.

You don’t like tummy time so much, but who needs it anyway! You can hold up your sweet little auburn head just fine. Your rolling around like crazy! Your even scooting around some, which I'm not quite ready for that one! Your never in the same spot I leave you at.

You haven’t started solids yet, but you will in a month or so…no rush, right sweet girl? We have tried a little bit of oatmeal in your milk, but I'm not seeing it keep you any more fuller. Your still eating 6 oz. about every 4 hours. Sometimes longer sometimes shorter. 

You really like to be held. People say that I’m going to spoil you, but they don’t know that you just need a little extra comfort sometimes. This world may be exciting, but it can be big and scary for little babies too. Mommy knows. Big sister knows too, bc she's always trying to comfort you when you cry. Even if you don't want your pacifier she is sure to make sure you have it. 

We saw the pediatrician this month. You were 12lbs 7oz. Don't get me started on your height. You are 25inches long. That's the 67th percentile. Where are you getting your height? Defiantly not for me! I'm forever short! You just might be taller then your sister. 

You’re growing and changing, Emersyn. It’s what you’re supposed to do, but Mommy just wants to bottle your 5 month-old sweetness for now. Please don’t grow up too fast!

I am forever yours, sweet girl.

Love, Mommy

Letters to Emersyn - 4 Months Old

Dear Emersyn! 

These months are going by way to fast and I still haven't figured out how to slow time down! You have changed so much in just the past month. Your smiling now. Your coo-ing, and oh those baby noises can melt my heart! 

Your four month check up is not till next week, but I unofficially weighed you and you were roughly 11lbs. Last month you were 10lbs. So your gaining good weight. Your newborn clothes are fitting perfect. Most 0-3 month clothes are still too big. Your still eating 5-6oz every 4-5hrs. 

You have had such a busy month traveling too. Your an expert in the car these days. The first of June we went to Ohio. That was a 14 hour drive. You girls did amazing. I was impressed bc even Charleston has not done that ride yet. But both of you got to meet everyone. Great Grandma & Great Grandpa loved seeing you! 

We actually just got back from Orlando. That was an easier ride for you both. Only 6hrs. We spent the week with Grandma and Grandpa but you got to meet Great Grandma and Great Grandpa too. Great Grandma got a hold of you and neither one of you wanted to let go! It was so sweet! You even made your first trip to Magic Kingdom. You loved the rides and seeing all the colors and things! It was so hot so we didn't spend all day at the park. No worries though bc Grandma and Grandpa work at Disney so we will get to go a lot more! Plus we're making a big trip in December with Grandma & Grandpa Pope! 

Your personality is really starting to shine through! I love this age. You love watching Charleston play around you. And Charleston is obsessed with helping me with everything for you. She loves holding the bottle and helping me burp you. The bond between you too is growing everyday and it makes my heart skip a beat! Watching you two together is my favorite thing ever. 

I can not wait to see what this next months adventures have in store for you! 

Mommy loves you sweet girl! 

Letters to Emersyn - 3 Months Old

Dear Emersyn,

You turn 3 months old today!! Two things are certain: I have no idea where those three months went and you're changing every day. I hope these letters freeze time just a little bit by giving you a snap shot of what you were like at just 90 days old. We love you more with each passing day.

Your eyes seem to be getting bluer by the day and your dark hair is growing like weeds. You don't really have a favorite toy or anything, but you have found your hands! Your constantly grabbing onto blankets, or even my shirts when your snuggled up close. You started to grab your bottle as well.

You have become more aware of your surroundings. You're getting really good at tracking Charleston as she runs around the room in circles around you. You would prefer to be cuddled in my arms, but Im determined to get you to like tummy time or swing time. Its not that you hate either, you just can't be swaddled up tight. Your moving around a lot more, so not sure how much longer you will be able to use the swaddle blankets. Which might be harder for mommy to work. If I can get you to sit in your swing or lay on the floor long enough for mommy to get some work done, that would be amazing. But none the less, I don't mind cuddling you all day. My work and house cleaning can wait!

You are a very good sleeper. You usually go down about 7:30 and sleep to about 7am. You are still sleeping in the rock n play, but working on moving you to either the pack and play or the crib. You're just not a fan of sleeping on a flat surface. You still nap a good bit during the day, but I find you awake and more alert in between.

Your getting bigger by the day. You are currently in size one diapers and moving your way into 0-3 month clothes. In an unofficial weigh-in using the bathroom scale, you clock in between 10 and 11 pounds. Your eating 6 oz. in the morning and sometimes before bed. During the day you still do 4 oz. Usually every 3-4 hours. I need you to slow down some! I have a feeling your going to be my last baby and that makes me want to keep you small even longer. Maybe one day I can talk your daddy into making you a big sister {but shh, we can work on him later}!

You don't currently have any teeth, but im about 99% sure you have one trying to come through. You drool every now and then. And when I put my finger in your mouth to massage gums you smile as if its the best thing in the world. If your anything like your sister, you are right on track as she had 2 teeth coming in at this time.

You may not have a favorite toy, but you do love baths. Especially getting your hair washed. We took you in the pool for the first time on Memorial day and you loved it. Then you passed out hard.

You do pretty decent on trips around town or even to Aunt Brandy's house. We are gearing up for the biggest road trip you or your sister has been on. Next week we head to Ohio. Which should be an interesting ride up. Your Aunt Brandy and I plus you, Charleston, Hunter, Jonathan and Randy all in one car.. while Grandma Sherri and Uncle TJ in another. With kids, Cleveland usually takes about 12-13 hours. Hunter is used to it, Jonathan has done the drive a few times, the rest of you munchkins have an adventure that awaits you. Hopefully this will get you used to traveling more, bc you girls and I head to Orlando at the end of June. You are going to be cuddled and loved by all kinds of family members. Im sure you will love it.

Im looking forward to the many adventures with you and your sister. Hopefully time slows down enough for me to remember every moment (mommy brain in full effect over here), if not we have these letters to look back on. Until our next monthly update....

Mommy loves you.

Letters to Emersyn - 2 Months Old

Dear Emersyn,

Time is flying by and I am so conflicted by emotion. Im overwhelmed with joy and excitement but at the same time my heart hurts everyday as you seem to grow another inch... further and further away from the tiny newborn we brought home from the hospital.

You've complete our family. We're now a party of four (five including Hera) and we feel whole. (Although I miss your sister Payton everyday and wish she was here. One day you will know all about her too). I can't wait to include you in the Mommy and Daughter things me and Charleston do. You have already adapted to being our shopping buddy and partner in crime.

I didn’t get around to writing to you on your actual 2 month birth day. Its been crazy with two babies around. This month you went from an itty, bitty, tiny newborn to a baby. I need time to freeze for a little while.
Our day started with a check-up at the doctors’s office where you weighed in at 9 pounds and 11 ounces and measured almost 22 inches long. You met all your milestones. Cooing….Check. Smiling…check. Turning to sounds….check. Following objects with your eyes…check. Although all these accomplishments are to be celebrated, Its never easy when the tray of shots enter the room. (and I have no issue when shots, needles or blood - your daddy on the other hand can not even be in the same room)

I've always thought that the second child would be easier, and whereas there are some things that are smoother, there is also knowledge. Knowledge of what happens when your baby is about to get a shot. The ensuing tears and screams. The long day of discomfort. I think the phrase "ignorance is bliss" applies to parenting your first child. Now that I know what is going to happen, there seems to be a stronger anxiety that grips my heart.

In your 2nd month in this big ole world, you have said goodbye to spring and hello to summer. The summer brings with it many traditions in our family ranging from trips to Orlando and frequent visits to the water park and even the beach. I can't wait to see how you react your first time at the beach, or even DISNEY!

Your sister has really warmed up to you. She now runs into the bedroom in the morning peeking her little eyes above the bed to see you. She cares where you are and wants to be near you all the time. She loves giving you kisses. Her hugs are more like headlocks, but this too shall pass. I hope that you share the same affection for one another as the years roll on. I desire for you girls to be the best of friends. Just like your Aunt Brandy and I.

I love watching your eyes move to the rhythm of the world, seeing you explore the room around you and learning who you are. It’s fun to witness all
your “firsts.” The next month will bring more excitement and more memories. I am beyond
blessed that I get to be your mommy.

I love you always,
Mommy

Made it through the SECOND TRIMESTER!

Im not going to lie, my second trimester was not any easier then my first. The nausea finally stopped! Which is a huge relief... how does anyone function with all that! whew! Hunger seems to come and go. Some days im hungry and some days Im not. Most days I have no appetite for anything.. but whats new from previous pregnancies. These girls don't like food! Like the other 2, shes likes her sugar and chocolate. I have eaten more sugar this time around. Since having an anterior placenta I don't feel her that often, so I eat a handful of sour gummy bears - and shes all over the place! I've decided if thats how im going to get my kick counts in this pregnancy then i'm not going to complain. I mean we all know my candy addiction is REAL anyways!

I did have a scare the beginning of the trimester, because some of my blood came back abnormal. I was not going to worry about it, bc it always comes back with abnormalities.. but this was with one of the genetic testing. The spina bifida one - the levels came back high. I went and saw a maternal specialist. Something I had to do by myself, and after Payton - this is never an appointment you should do by yourself. Thankfully everything came back out. My levels were one point over the failing point. But the doctors still want to treat me as if im high risk and keeping an eye on everything. So for the remaining of the pregnancy I will see the doctor ever 2 weeks. Every 4 weeks will be a normal check up and every 2 weeks I will have an ultra sound to make sure she is growing on schedule.

I feel like Emersyn looks so much like Payton too. She's is roughly about 2lbs, so a little smaller then the girls at this point. We will see how much she grows... and me... in the next few weeks.

Baby Carbonaro #3 is a.....

We normally do a gender reveal get together when we find out.. but this year we are getting into the holiday season, so we opted out on it. We have known for a few days, but could not come up with a cute way to announce it. I mean you know I cant just say hey were having a ..... I have to do something cute and creative! 

Well we had an extra pumpkin at my mother n laws and we wanted to carve it with Charleston anyways - so I took advantage of it and used it to announce our gender! 

Now if you think I had a hard time trying to decide how to do the gender reveal you should of seen us trying to pick a name! Of course every name I liked, Richard did not. He likes the generic boring names (sorry not sorry), but I like something unique and personality. I mean my name is Bjana. lol. Finally we narrowed down a name.. 

Letters to Charleston - 10 Months Old

Dear Charleston,

It blows my mind that you are about to enter the double digits of babyhood! Time has flown way to fast since your beautiful birth. I feel like I’ve blinked and you’ve become a little girl. I can’t believe you are now cruising on furniture, playing with your toys and would rather stand than crawl. 

You may have said “dada” first, but you can’t stop saying “mamamama” now, which makes me smile every time. Especially if I leave the room. You will chase be down screaming mama mama. You have learned to make the cutest noises. Grandma Terri loves to copy you and you always respond right back. Its like you two have your own language. Although I love the sounds, I can't wait till you are making actual words and I can find out what is going on in that sweet head of yours. 

You find so much joy in other people’s smiles, especially mine and daddy’s. You love going to Grandma Terri's. You always know where you are as soon as we step foot in her garage. You always have the biggest smile on your face. You light up Great Granddaddy's face every time he sees you. He is always making you giggle, and we cant help but giggle with you. Your sweet laugh is contagious. 

We wont see your doctor again until 12 months, so I just sat you on our scale. Your weighing in at 18.9 pounds. Your still wearing 6 months clothes, but have also started to wear some 6-9 month clothes. Your feet are finally starting to thin out some, so you can wear shoes! Which is good, bc you have a CLOSET FULL! 

I am in full swing of planning your FIRST birthday! I can not believe its in TWO MONTHS! There is not really theme, but a color scheme of Pink and Gold! With a little "Princess" thrown in. :) I've already purchased your smash cake session outfit as well as your party day outfit. I even have your cake ordered! We did a little bit of vanilla and chocolate, but regardless. I think it's safe to assume you will devour it. 

You have a very hearty appetite. With your 6 teeth. You absolutely love your food. We have not tried too many table food items yet, but you LOVE the things we have tried: sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, peas, strawberries & spaghetti noodles. You still love your blueberry, cranberry and apple baby food. We started doing some of the baby snacks like: lil crunchies, yogurt melts, puffs & mum mums. If I had to guess your favorite food would be the ranch lil crunchies. But you are obsessed with the peach puffs and yogurt melts we just started you on. You have never really wanted juice, unless it was some of my Herbalife beverage mix, or aloe. Daddy bought you some white grape juice, you really like now. 

I love watching you grow and change everyday! You bring joy to so many people. You are so very loved!

Love you Always,
Mommy

Letters to Charleston - 9 Months Old

Dear Charleston,

Time is moving so quickly. Every time I turn around your a month older. Now you are 9 months old and have become this beautiful little person.

You are a curious little one - army crawling anywhere you can. I know that you won't be crawling for too much longer as you are eager to stand and become more independent. You are constantly trying to pull yourself up onto the furniture to explore new undiscovered surfaces or to simply retrieve something that had been taken away - remotes, power cords or an iPhone. You have become such a little pro in your walker. You can spend hours in that just exploring the house or sitting in front of the windows watching the outside world.

This past month has been full of adventures for you. We spent the day in Sumter celebrating Aria's first Birthday! You loved spending the day with Uncle Fred and Aunt Daysha. They def wore you out. Grandma Terri traveled to Orlando with us to celebrate Emily's baby shower. You did so good with everyone. We spent a day at Epcot, which you enjoyed hanging out in your stroller seeing the sites, but when you got hot and tired you passed out!
Your Aunt Mary and cousin Hadley , who live in Vegas even came to visit. You loved playing with Hadley. I don't think you have been around to many babies your age so you really loved playing with her. It was so cute to see you girls together.

We have your 9 month check up tomorrow with Dr. Lewis so im excited to see how much you have grown. Your still wearing 3-6 months clothes for the most part, but have been slowing working your way into 6 months clothes. Depending on the brand, some 9 month clothes fit but are too big for the most part.

Life is filled with distractions and now with you, I have a clear direction and purpose. When I look at you I am filled with a love I have never felt before. Don't get me wrong, I love your daddy, but a mothers love for her baby girl is indescribable and magical. You are teaching me every day to be more patient, live in the moment and embrace the time we have been given to share together before you are all grown up and ready to discover the world on your own. Because as much as I don't want to think about it now, there will be a time when I won't see you every day.
I know you are going to do great things in life. You re already such and incredible little lady and I will support you and help you to grow to be everything you want to become. I will cherish all the moments I get to enjoy with you. I love you beyond measures, and I am honored that I was chosen to be your mother.

You have already taught me so much about what it means to be patient and selfless. But I want you to know more than anything, that you are loved. By so many. No matter how many times I say it, or how many ways i try to write about it, you will never realize how truly loved you are until you have a child of your own to hold in your arms.

With all of my love,
Mommy!

Letters to Charleston - 8 Months Old

Dear Charleston, 

When did you become 8 months! Yes, I said {EIGHT MONTHS}. Time has just flown by! You continue to change before my very eyes and you continue to become more fun each day.

This month you became mobile. You have started army crawling and exploring and going after what you want. You no longer sit idly playing with toys, but instead seek after whatever you can see and reach. These things tend to be on the dangerous side - especially in the ever so messy office; scissors, electrical outlets, power cords and the fake tree you like to pull the leaves off. This wouldn't be so bad, but it has fallen on top of you 3 times. You think you would of figured this one out by now. You have not figured out the concept of crawling yet, as your not sure how to get your stomach of the ground and keep it up. In the last few days you have gotten up on all four, and your ready to crawl, but then just fall to the ground and start to army crawl. We have not started child-proofing yet, but since you continue to keep us on our toes, I think its time. You gave mommy a scare the other day.. During the day sometimes you nap on our bed bc thats where you fall asleep and I don't want to move you to your crib so I just stack pillows around you. Well apparently I did not get to you fast enough after you woke up and you decided to reach for something and fell off the bed. You screamed for about 3 secs, bc it took me about 2 to get too you. Once I had you cuddled in my arms you were ok and ready to move around again. You did get your first booboo, but it does not seem to phase you. 

Your daddy and I argue about your first word! I swear its "hey." We say it so often in our household it's easy for you to pick up. Also when your doing something your not suppose to do, I usually say "HEY!" instead of saying "NO!" You also say the typical dadadadadada.. so of course daddy takes that as you saying "Dada." I guess time will tell when you start to really talk and we can make out your words more. 

While those developments were so exciting and welcome, one thing that I could've done without this month was your nap strike. You didn't give up naps all together, but I'd say that more often than not, your naps were 20 minutes or less. You have had a few bad nights this month, Im not sure if its due to your teeth or what. You cry for a few mins and usually go back to sleep when we pat your back, but its a few times a night now. 

You are becoming so much more aware of yourself and of your surroundings. You notice our food and must have it. You love playing with your hands and feet. You play with your tongue and perpetually scratch your head. If you drop something or I hide a dangerous object, you no longer simply forget it, but instead strain your head to find the missing thing.

You have 3 teeth now. The 2 on the bottom and 1 on the top that has broke through in the last few days. I swear the only time I know your teething is your slight fever thats associated with it. This top tooth has made your nose a little runny, but still a fairly happy baby! 

You had your first trip to the pool this month. You were a little unsure at first, but after a few mins you loved it. You are def going to be a water baby this summer. 

I love you baby girl. I love picking you up and you wrap your little arms around my neck giving me a reason to better myself, and love life even more. We've got some good times ahead of us. Thank you, sweet girl, for being such a shinning star. 

I love you to the moon and back,
Mommy

Letters to Charleston - 7 Months Old

Dear Charleston,

You are 7 months old. The number blows my mind. I remember reading other people's blog and thinking how big their babies were at 7 months. And here you are, exactly 7 months old, and yet you're still so little and at the same time so grown. You've gone such a long way. I could never imagine myself as a mom to a 7 month old and yet in a blink of an eye, you are 7 {freaking} MONTHS OLD!

I am most likely repeating myself saying this month has been the most amazing one so far. When I day-dreamed about you, when you were in my belly, I couldn't imagine that we would  have times like this where every single day is unbearably precious and unfathomably fun. Writing these letters to you become more important with each passing month.

Your day ALWAYS starts the same. About 6 or 7 am. We hear you rolling around and giggling in your crib, patently waiting for one of us to come get you. When you realize daddy or I standing at your crib.. Its instantly a slew of babbles and laughs followed by the biggest smile, making it evident for anyone else in the house that the PRINCESS is awake.

So what's new this month? Well, you are 16 lbs. and about 26 inches tall. You are wearing 3-6 month clothes and a size 2 in diapers. But not for much longer, I think its almost time to move up to a size 3. You have truly become a water baby. You love bath time and playing in the water, always trying to grab it as it comes out the faucet. You still only have 2 teeth, but I believe you have another one trying to push through. You are such a fighter when it comes to falling asleep. I swear your afraid your going to miss something. But when you finally give up, you are out like a light. Still sleeping at least 9 hours a night. Which is great, now only if I could.

Your favorite foods are pumpkin, apples and pumpkin and you just started liking squash. Two weekends ago we gave you one of those puffs that dissolves in your mouth, I was a little nervous. I knew it dissolved right away, but was not sure how fast and if you would choke. I think I was more worried about if you knew how to chew it or swallow it....but you loved them. I know sure if it was more of a "solid" food then what your used to or what. It amazes me that even at a young age you still know what to do. You are so interested in regular food. No matter where you are, you try so hard to reach it and grab it. Soon baby girl.. soon!

You are using your fingers and hands like a pro. You grab on to anything and everything, from toys to things on the shelf at stores. Your always grabbing on to clothes that get close enough for you to reach.You love when were out shopping and prefer me to carry you as I push the cart, so you can grab on too and help! Your going to be the perfect little shopper with me and Grandma Terri.

You babble and coo all day long. Im pretty sure you will be a big talker here soon. I think you have said "hey" several times, but that is still up for debate. Regardless, I can pretty much make out the meaning of your noises. I love your smile and giggles. It just brightens up the room. You are such a ray of sunshine when your great granddaddy Jack sees you. He loves to play with you and is always looking forward to your little giggles.

You are not crawling yet, as you haven't quite figured out how to lift that belly up. But you are EVERYWHERE! You scoot and wiggle around on your back to move from place to place. I can put you on your back and turn away for 2 seconds and you will be on your stomach turned the other way. You are def going to give me a run for my money! Your daddy and I will be chasing you all over this house.

You are such a mommy's girl too. Your daddy likes to beg a differ but there is no denying it. He's determined to make you a Clemson girl, but he does not realize that the girls in this family are Carolina fans all the way. Im so looking forward to taking you on your first tailgating trip in the fall. You will love it!

You are growing so fast! I need you to slow down! Sweet girl you are such blessing and your daddy and I love you to pieces!

Letters to Charleston - 6 Months Old

Dear Charleston,

Today you turned 6 months old. SIX WHOLE MONTHS of baby. I can't believe it. In many ways the past 6 months have passed by at a scary speed. Sometimes I feel like I blink and you've changed right there in front of me. You're no longer the tiny little baby we brought home. You are solid, with chunky, strong thighs and a firm grip. I am amazed at how much you have grown and how we can't even remember what life was like before you made us a family. Seriously, how did we spend our evenings?

We saw Dr. Lewis today and your weighing in at 15.15 pounds and 26 inches long. I have a feeling your going to be short like mommy! As for your clothes, your still wearing 3 months for the most part, but can wear some 6 months depending on brand.
You have been teething since 2 months, but this month your first tooth finally broke through and just this week we noticed another one right beside it. Ahh 2 teeth!

At six months you're as eager as ever to move or just get up on your own two feet. One day I could leave you on your play mat on the floor and work around the house, and then the next day you were suddenly mobile. Now you can roll across the floor and lie on your back and wiggle backwards (it's hilarious), and I cant leave you unattended for 5 seconds because I don't know where you'll end up. But it's wonderful because now your world is starting to open up. You have gained a tiny bit of independence and there's a world of adventures ahead.
Did I mention you can sit up all by yourself? No? Well, you can. You're a bit wobbly at times but everyday you get stronger. And you love it. Just recently, you have started to lift your arms up when you want picked up and every once in a while you will reach for others if you want to go to them. Its super cute.

We started feeding you baby food.. you weren't sure about it at first and at times you still aren't. We have tried several brands but of course you prefer the beech nut over anything. It seems your favorites so far are pumpkin and honey crisp apples with pumpkin. Your going to be a pumpkin girl, just like the rest of us! You ate a whole jar of the apples and pumpkin the first time eating them. You just did not want to put them down. You were also covered from head to toe because you got excited every time you took a bite. You like your vegetables better then your fruit. Although the other day you tried pears and raspberries and you love it.

Recently, you have discovered our faces, and we keep getting poked and prodded by your adorable fingers. Especially when we are rocking you to sleep.
You have always been a good sleeper - you sleep 9-10 hours every night. Your napping is less predictable - most days you sleep a total of 3-4 hours, but occasionally you go on a nap strike and get a little irritable. But sleep eventually wins.
Your always a happy baby when you wake up. Its usually about 7:30am when I find you in your crib just a giggling and playing with your feet.

This month you have definitely come in to your own. Your personality has continued to grow and you are becoming more of a little person than an infant. This makes me slightly sad because your tiny baby days are ending, but I am so excited to see what the next month brings.
I just can't believe it's been 6 months already.
Your Daddy and I love you more than you could imagine!

6 Month photo shoot coming soon!

Letters to Charleston - 5 Months Old

Dear Charleston,

Yesterday you turned 5 months old. I can’t believe you’re already such a little lady. You’re still full of smiles but you’ve picked up many new skills in the past month. You can sit up (with a little support), reach your toes, hold your own bottle, blow bubbles, roll both ways and jump a ton in your bouncer. You even love to sit in your bumbo seat and watch Kate and Mim Mim. You have become more vocal in the last few weeks and sometimes I think you just like hearing your own voice. But I don't mind.. It's so cute!

We saw the pediatrician for an unscheduled visit this month bc of a little cough you had.. But luckily it went away as fast as it showed up! You weigh 15 pounds and probably somewhere around 25/25.5 inches. Most of your clothes are still 0-3 and 3 months, although you can wear a few 3-6 months depending on brand. Your hair is lightening up just a touch and has started falling out. Your eyes look like they will stay blue like Your daddy's and I.

Dr. Lewis suggested we start solids with you at 4 months, but I’ll admit it: I wasn’t ready. That is just another sign that you’re speeding away from baby status. My plan was to wait until 6 months, but every parent knows that a parenting plan never goes as you’d like. You have already started staring at solid foods and reaching for it. We decided to start you on avocados first. You didn't have much of a reaction to it. You hated the whole spoon feeding thing more then anything. We have also started sweet potatoes, squash and pears. Sweet potatoes you liked for a few days but when you got the spoon feeding figured out, you didn't care for sweet potatoes any more. Squash you kinda liked and pears you didn't like at all. I think we have apples next to try! I've been trying to extend your in between eating time but you want to go back wards. You were eating every 4hrs, your now eating every 3hrs. It averages somewhere between 3-5hrs. Depending on your days. Your such a chunky monkey!

You went on your first road trip this month. We went to Orlando to see Grandpa Hoey and your Great Grandparents Hoey and Carbonaro! You did so well in the car ride. Slept most of the time. Even when you were awake you were quiet as can be! You got to meet so many family members while we were in Orlando & of course you were the topic of all conversation!

You took your first trip to the Magic Kingdom while we were their as well!! You enjoyed seeing all the colors and characters. Cinderella's step sisters wanted to keep you! You can't help it - your just so cute! We did a Disney 3D orchestra show and you loved it. Well until u got sprinkled with water & then you were a little confused. But I think your first Disney trip was a success!

And sweet pea, you don’t know it, but you have a friend who watches over you from heaven. Her name is Payton and she would have been 17 months old tomorrow. She didn’t make it though, and that makes Mommy and daddy very sad. But we are lucky to have such a sweet little guardian angel to take care of you.

Mommy and Daddy are so glad that you found us. I never could’ve imagined that you would be so perfect! I LOVE your head full of brown hair, and you look just like Mommy! Your my mini me! 

You’re still a laid back, smiley girl and you know how to light up a room with your infectious smile. You’re still sleeping well at night, but you fight sleep during the day during nap times. Dad & I love you so much. We can't forget about Hera! She loves to protect you and her favorite thing is to lick all your drool off. You’re growing and changing so much. It’s what you’re supposed to do, but Mommy just wants to bottle your 5 month-old sweetness for now. Please don’t grow up too fast.

All my love,
Mommy

Letters to Charleston - 4 Months Old

Dear Charleston,

Though you're only four months old, I'm amazed by the personality you're already showing; we're learning more about who you are every day.

From the moment my labor begin, I knew you were someone very special. You were the ultimate partner and champion in your epidural-free birth. From the moment you were born, you seemed much older than a newborn. You have made life so easy for me. Instead of the restless, frantic life stage that I expected to be in with a newborn, I have spent the past four months in total bliss. I have felt nothing other than rested, calm, and totally in love.

Each morning, you wake me up with your little baby noises and greet me with a happy little dance. Even though at times it's earlier than I'd like, once you smile at me, I can't help but smile, too.

While you could care less about rolling over, you have hit the belly laugh milestone. There's not a sweeter sound in our lives right now. When we get you in a laughing fit, everything in the house stops and everyone comes over to see you. You never fail to put on a good show. I often wonder if I have a future performer on my hands. You already have the ability to light up the room and make people smile. You LOVE attention. (Just like mommy) ;)

The love your older cousins have for you is just amazing to me! Little Jonathan who is only a year and a half has so much love for you it melts my heart. When he see's you he lights up and just wants to play with you. I love watching him interact with you. I can already see it, you two will be the best of friends. Both boys are such a big help when we come to visit, and they love holding you!

For weeks now you have loved to stand up. You've loved working at this and getting better at it. Today you can stand up for a long time. Your leg muscles have gotten so strong. Your daddy even had you stand up and balance by your self, and you balanced pretty well for a good 30sec. We were amazed. When your legs get tired and  you go down, you always want to get right back up. I want you to remember this at every stage in your life: always get back up. Falling is part of life; falling is how we learn; falling means that we're stretching ourselves, pushing ourselves, growing and striving to be better. Falling is living life - getting back up is living life to its fullest.

You love watching TV, at first I think it was just for the colors. But we can across this show called Kate & Mim Mim and every time we put it on you get the biggest smile you can make. You could watch that show for hours. Thank goodness for Netflix, we can put it on anytime.

You know, you may be little, but you've already had a profound effect on my life. When I wake up now, the first thing I do is look at you. Some days your already wide awake; others I see your closed eyes and your little lips pouting as your body moves with the rhythm of your breathing, and I can't help but smile, and reminded that all is well.

I grow more in love with you every day. Just when I think there's no way I could love you any more, somehow, there's even more room in my heart and more love to give. I can't even remember what life was like without you. In just a few weeks we will be celebrating your first Christmas and we are so blessed beyond words to have you in our family.

We love you,
Mommy, Daddy & your puppy Hera!

Letters to Charleston - 3 months old

Dear Charleston,

How are you already 3 months old?  What happened to my tiny 6 pound baby?  You're doing exactly what you're supposed to do, sweet girl... growing, learning, and thriving.

This past month was full of new little milestones, changes, and lots of smiles. But I must confess,  I have yet to start your baby book. Between sleepless nights for mommy, snoring noises by daddy, and everything else in between - I hope these letters help freeze time just a little bit by giving you a snap shot of what you were like at only 90 days old. We feel like you've been with our family forever while at the same time it feels like you were just born yesterday. 

Your smiles make my heart beat fast and my insides melt. You have been using those sweet smiles to communicate with us. I love making eye contact with you and seeing you smile at me. It's during these moments that I realize you have fulfilled something deep within me, you make me so happy to be a mom.

Your learning to take naps in your crib during the day, but your still sleeping in your pack n play at night. You still preferred to be held and snuggled, but we love to snuggle with you! You are still sleeping through the night, and I love waking up to your giggles in the morning. 

You love holding on to shirts when your eating or snuggling. Its so freaking cute. You have tiny feet, your newborn sized shoes still don't fit. You can still fit into some of your newborn clothes but your wearing 0-3 months for the most part. Some are still a little big. You are in size 1 diapers, but not sure if you will be in them much longer. 

We have not weighed you since your 2 month appointment, but I'm guessing your roughly 11 pounds now. Growing girl! You're also getting very strong, getting close to being able to hold your head completely on your own (even with those cheeks), and we are always shocked by your strong little legs.

You are often a little fussy in the evening, but nothing that can't be fixed by mommy snuggles. I always tell daddy - mommy snuggles are better because I can pick you up and with in minutes your fast asleep. Daddy try's so hard, but you just prefer mommy snuggles! You like to talk and coo. Your not much of a screamer, but we're not going to complain about that. You like driving in the car, but have had your moments where you want to be out of your seat. We recently took a road trip to Charlotte and you did so well. You go everywhere with me and do very well being out and about.

You LOVE to sit up and see whats happening around you. I'm not sure how far you can see and how clear it is but you like watching the tv with us. I think you just like the moving bright colors. 

You are so much more alert, smiley, happy, and occasionally a little "demanding".  You have acquired some new nicknames from us:  Sweet Pea, Chunky Monkey, and of course, my baby girl. 

You bring endless happiness to our life, even in the moments you are sad or grumpy. There is so much excitement, even in the little things, and it really puts life into perspective. We still spend a lot of time just staring at you. You are so special and I am reminding myself to cherish every day with you, because these days with my little Charli are numbered. You are growing so fast! 

Mommy loves you so much!

Letters to Charleston - 1 month old

Dear Charleston, 

Today you are ONE month old! I can’t believe it - it has been the fastest month of my life. You came into this world and changed it for the better. 

Your sweet nature is a joy to be around and since day one, you have been a relaxed, happy-go-lucky baby. You only cry if you’re starving or you need your diaper changed. Except for 

a slight case of jaundice your first week, you have been perfectly healthy! 

For the first 3 weeks of your life, you slept a lot and woke up only to eat and then went right back to a peaceful slumber. In the past week you’ve spent much more time with your eyes open, taking in your new world. Nothing phases you: from your dog Hera giving you slobbery kisses to me running the sweeper. 

When you were born, We were surprised by the amount of thick, dark hair you had. The ultrasound tech told us at every visit you had hair, but we never imagined this much. Your sister Payton had hair, but no where close to the amount you have. 

Your first cries were music to your Dad’s & my ears. You def have a set of lungs on you. When they placed you in my arms it was love at first sight. I never wanted to put you down, but I had to share you with the rest of the family who was eager to meet you! You have stolen the hearts of many and you have two cousins who are already wrapped around your fingers. From day one they have taken you under their wing, smothering you in kisses and always checking in on you. It warms my heart to know you 3 will have each other for the rest of your lives.

Thank you for being a dream baby. Your first month has been wonderful. I can’t wait for us to do so many fun mother/daughter things in the future, but I wish I could push the slow down button on life right now. You are growing up too fast…

I’ll love you always,
Mommy

Second Pregnancy - Third Trimester Reflections

As we get down to the "business" end of this pregnancy,
I figured I would take a step back and reflect
on the third trimester.

(p.s. this was written over a few weeks time)

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We knew from day 1 we would be inducing this pregnancy for health reasons. Dr. Fisher wanted to schedule the induction before we got to the 37 weeks and 6 day mark, which Richard and I agreed with 100%.  So that put us in the week of August 8th-15th. July has been a waiting game to get the hospital schedule of when we could narrow a date down, and on July 14th - we got that date! August 10th at 7 am. Now that we have a count down clock to watch, things have gotten more real, including my emotions.

We.. OK.. maybe me.. wanted kids back to back. I mean im not getting any younger. So even with everything that happened with Payton, we still wanted to jump on the bandwagon again. After our 6 week appointment we started trying again. It took me about 2 cycles - which felt like a life time. But when I finally saw those two lines, I felt immense relief. But that was soon replaced with the realization that I would spend the next nine months holding my breath. One of the greatest comforts to me over the last months was learning how many other women felt the same fear that I do and yet survived subsequent pregnancies. 

As the date gets closer to August 10th, it also means Paytons first birthday is approaching. My emotions are all over the place.We are about to bring our second daughter into the world and I don't know how to be excited. Friends and family keep asking me, are you excited, are you ready... I am, don't get me wrong I'm ecstatic, but I can't help feeling devastated and sad at the same time. I still remember looking at the glowing screen trying to make sense of the sonogram... there was no movement or heartbeat. I couldn't cry... I just sat in silence. As much I try not to think back on that day, its hard not too.

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In some ways, this pregnancy has flown by. In other ways - I feel as if we have been on this pregnancy roller coaster for way too long. If I'm to be honest, this pregnancy was not as easy as the first one. Physically, it was harder, which meant mentally it felt worse. My first trimester was the long waiting in between doctors appointments, then patiently waiting to hear her heart beat.  The second trimester was getting through the dizzy/nauseated spells. But this third trimester the stress has built up and made it self known through more complications and less sleep.

At 27 weeks and 6 days we went into the doctors office because her movements had slowed down tremendously. Normally I don't feel her in the mornings till about 10-11ish because she's so active through the night, but she was not the night before. When we got in the doctors office they put me on the NST monitors.

(The Fetal Non-Stress test is a simple, non-invasive test performed in pregnancies over 28 weeks gestation. The test is names "non-stress" because no stress is placed on the fetus during the test. The non-stress test is a simple, noninvasive way of checking on your baby's health. The test records your baby's movement, heartbeat, and contractions. It notes changes in heart rhythm when your baby goes from resting to moving, or during contractions if you're in labor.)

I sat on the monitors for about 30 minuets while they checked over all the recordings. She stayed pretty active during the test and everything was reading on track. Which was a relief!

With in 4 days we were in the hospital because I was having a sharp pain on my left side. Dr. Dillon - the high risk doctor was on call so she helped us out and took good care of me. We got checked into the hospital about 6:30 pm and she put us on the NST monitors. She stated the sharp pain is very common in pregnancies and gets worse with each one. Its called a round ligament pain. Not something thats very comfortable I might add. But she knew everything that happened with Payton and wanted to keep me on the monitors for a little while. During this time she discovered I was having contractions. I was like really? I just thought it was pressure and the difference in the way I was carrying her compared to Payton. Or maybe braxton hicks. But that wasn't the case. With in an hour she decided we were gonna stay over night - because the contractions were not stopping and were pretty steady. She ran a bunch of test and even gave me some medicine to relax me to see if that would stop the contractions. About 2am she could not determine what was causing the contractions, but was able to determine I was not in preterm labor. Since there was nothing else she could do, she sent us home about 3am and told me to take things easy and look out for labor symptoms.

At 30 weeks we spent a week in Florida - we took my 1 year old and my 6 year old nephews to Disney World! Everyone had fun which was great, but the heat was ridiculous. I know Richard got his exercise for the week... he pushed me in a wheel chair through out the parks. I got up and walked around some, but it made the contractions more frequent. I made it back to Charleston - with no signs of early labor! woohoo!! lol.

Contractions never stopped. Around 33 weeks they got longer and more intense. At times, I was not sure she's was going stay put till we induced. She is def a wiggler and a shaker. I got more nauseated as well. Sometimes it was hard to determine which was making the other one worse - being nauseated or the contractions.

I don't believe I was blessed with the pregnancy glow this time around.. its more like a "I'm so tired and hungry" shimmer....

Similar to my last pregnancy - things in the "bump" department seem to have slowed down in the third trimester. Charleston is still growing beautifully, however we are predicting her to be similar size to Payton. She is a little bigger, but not by much. My weight gain was more this pregnancy, but shes had a bigger appetite then Payton did. Payton liked fruit, veggies and sugar! Charleston likes her hamburgers and sugar. I am sad she does not like seafood. Its the one thing I craved with Payton, and it still seems to be the one thing I crave with Charleston, I just cant handle the taste! 

As my third trimester is ending - contractions have gotten stronger. Some days they are close enough to track them, but not enough to rush to the hospital. My driving days ended about 34 weeks - I couldn't count on not having an intense contractions, so I decided I probably shouldn't be driving....

--------------------------

At 33 weeks and 6 days we did our Maternity photos with the Fabulous Kaity! Since we did maternity photos at the beach for Payton - we want to do a park or something this time around. Since we decided on the name Charleston, we decided on downtown Charleston! :) Here are a few of my favorites......

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At my 36 week appointment I was 1 cm dilated and 60% effaced! Baby Charleston can come at anytime! Dr. Fisher said look out for my water breaking or contractions being 5 mins apart for an hour or so. The days following my appointment, my contractions def got closer and stronger really fast! During our ultra sound Miss Charleston was super active, but we got a few good pictures of her! I mean look at those CHEEKS!!! I'm pretty sure she gets those from me! They estimated her to be about 6 lbs and 1 oz. So she's def bigger then Payton! Lets hope she doesn't get much bigger then that by next week! lol. 

--------------------------------------------

So today is my last day of being pregnant! I'm not sure what my emotions are because I'm to exhausted to even think about them! Surprisingly im not really nervous or scared about tomorrow. I know my feelings about the delivery day have been a little different through out my pregnancy - but now that its here, I think im ok! I mean i'm nervous - but who wouldn't be pushing a baby out! lol. 

Richard and I have decided to keep things as simple as possible tomorrow! We have to be at the hospital at 6:45 am. We have told family not to be at the hospital no earlier then 9 am. We have also told all our family and friends that we only want intermediate family at the hospital tomorrow, but everyone else is welcome to come see us on Tuesday. We just want tomorrow to be as simple as we can make it, and no stress for anyone. We will see how that goes! I at least will have my sister their to put anyone in their place if need be! lol. She gets me like that! :) 

So ready to meet this bundle of joy we have been so patiently waiting for!