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!
on the go
turn on the spotlight
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
park fun
The local parks are just more fun when Daddy is around. Sure, it's great to visit with other moms and watch your own child interact with other friends. But I really enjoy when it's just the three of us. Most often we go after dinner when there are very few people playing. It's nice for Scott to see Morgan enjoying everything the playscape has to offer, and I enjoy sharing those moments with him. Our most recent visit was Friday evening.
Giant abacus? Kinda fun.
Lion's Mouth? Ehh. So so.
Swings? Getting warmer!
Slide? Yes! This is where the party's at!
i caved
Did I cave? Or was it more like taking advantage of an opportunity?
Stylist Aunt Kelli was in town over the holiday weekend at the Lake with her gear, so I figured a tiny trim wouldn't hurt. Morgan was great!
Finally realizing that it's hot under that cape and wanting to be all done.
Morgan's new haircut (not much has changed)
Momma's new haircut
definitely not yet
So I went and bought the little hair bands. They are teeny! Just one twist holds Morgan's fine locks.
I also picked up a headband, a.k.a. the bangs-in-face prevention. This is just way too much fun. The haircut has been vetoed. Or at least post-poned.
rethinking the trim
Maybe I shouldn't cut Morgan's hair after all? (I can't wait for the day when Morgan wants to play hair salon with me.)
Mom: those are your mini-clips holding Morgan's hair. Tiny rubberbands might be better. But they were still fun to try.
celebrating the bump
In the whirlwind of last week, Sarah and Doug made their final visit home until Christmas. It was the last time for me to see Sarah pregnant. As I dropped them at the airport in the darkness of Monday morning, I said, "Next time I see you two, you'll officially be parents!" I was feeling bittersweet today, wishing I would have taken a picture of Sarah and me together while she was here. But like every trip, there were things to do, people to see and not much time to just be. The thought never crossed my mind to pose for a photo with my beautifully pregnant sister. Instead I am the photographer in these pictures.
Aunt Sarah and Morgan playing
Forget the smiling sunshine... Morgan shows Aunt Sarah and Uncle Doug how chalk is really done.
