"fun" at the library

Morgan was finally old enough to attend her first storytime session at the library this fall. Funny how it worked out, though. While the other kids listened intently, Morgan walked around the room aimlessly.



While the other kids enjoyed making crafts, Morgan panicked when her fingers were dirtied.



By the time we made it to the last session, Morgan was getting the hang of things. It was Halloween day and the kids were able to wear their costimes. In this shot, Morgan should be waving her star along with the song. Instead she is frozen, scared to touch her tulle skirt.



Her favorite part of storytime was using the felt board. Each child's piece coincided with the lyrics of a poem, and at just the right time, the kids got a turn to put their very own piece on the board. Morgan loved this.



When the five weeks of storytime concluded, we registered for the special "Music, Music" program at the main branch. It was a one-day event that Scott was able to attend. As you can see, he was the photographer and I sat solo most of the time because Morgan, well, she did her own thing.




Here's the back of my head. And where's Morgan?
Off running around somewhere, watching other people.

luke's first week

I get my turn to hold this adorable bundle in two weeks.

Can't wait to touch that hair!

on the go

I'm not one to sit idle for very long. A single day in the house is enough down time for me. So when Morgan started asking to go for a ride, it brought a smile to my face!

Now after waking from every night of sleep and every nap, she puts in her request. Exploring the world (or Target) is so fascinating for her. And I love it. She has, however, started to retain a memory or two about places visited. Unfortunately, those places aren't always daily stops. Her most recent requests have been for Nah-Nahss, the Wees and the Side. Translation? Her friend Thomas, and the park favorites: swings and the slide.

Last week, Morgan woke up and immediately asked for her shoes. I obliged. Then she appeared with her hat on, all ready to go. Too bad it was 6:30 a.m. and we were still in our pajamas!

turn on the spotlight

Gymnastics used to be a huge part of my sister's life. She started taking lessons when she was little, and it grew into a 16-20 hour a week commitment by the time she was in 8th grade. Sarah participated in meets all across the state as part of the United States Gymnastics Federation and was absolutely amazing. In high school she would walk away with all the honors, blowing girls out of the water who didn't have the same background.



I was always proud of Sarah's athletic talents because they were so different than mine. I participated in the team sport of basketball. Her individuality is what counted in gymnastics, and later, diving. Her sports required grace, patience, determination and dedication... all gifts that I wouldn't put at the top of my list.

When Sarah excelled in those things, I was sure to let everyone know she was my sister. It made me feel good to put her up on a pedestal, knowing she was too humble to stand in the spotlight that she deserved. I wanted her to be recognized.

And so today, I am sharing again just how awesome my little sister is.

Just over five hours after my post on Friday night, Sarah and Doug welcomed their son, Luke Douglas, into the world. Daddy Doug called at 12:45 a.m. and relayed the information:

Born around 11:15 p.m. on Friday, October 10.
Weighing in at 6 lbs, 8 ounces.
Measuring 20 inches long.

What Doug also shared was how Sarah powered through the pain to give birth. It was her intention to try delivery without an epidural. Progress was quite quick, however, and suddenly the option for relief was no longer there. With only two low level pain meds through an IV, she delivered Luke.

When I think about all of the special gifts that God has given Sarah, it's no surprise to me that she was able to use them on Friday night. And I know that God has also given Doug special gifts of his very own... to absorb the emotions and pain of his wife, to hold her hand, to remain calm in the chaos.

Little Luke has arrived, and I can't wait to meet him. I am excited to see Doug as Daddy. But even more powerful to me right now is my sister. She is now a mother. And she is amazing.

the call

I see the caller ID. It's my parents.

"Hello?" I ask inquisitively, knowing I just talked with them at length last night.

"Helloh-oh," my dad says in an excited, sing-songy way.

"Why are you calling?!?!?" I demand, hoping he's about to say what I really want to hear.

"Time to start the baby watch clock!"

Oh my!

baby watch

It's a little challenging to to keep watch on your pregnant sister when she's 1500 miles away, but believe me, we are doing it!

Sarah and Doug are expecting their first child in just a couple weeks. While we've affectionately been called Uncle Scott and Aunt Rach by the children of our close friends, come this October, we will for the first time ever legitimately hold the titles.

The countdown is on! But I think they are ready. Sarah and Doug have had lots of practice with their nephew, Kai, and niece, Morgan. I smile when I see these pictures, knowing that soon Sarah and Doug will be holding a baby of their very own. What awesome, relaxed parents they will be!

With Kai in California

With Morgan.