Connor's Place

Look Whose Two!!

2011-01-12T13:27:00.001-05:00

Happy 2nd Birthday to the best little boy in the entire universe! Mommy & Daddy love you very much and are so very proud of you! We hope you love your bounce house and your new big boy bed!!

He really does like both, by the way! He got them yesterday since we were home from school with snow and ice. Connor's looking forward to celebrating at the real bounce house this weekend. More pictures to come then . . . .

The Little Gym

2010-06-15T10:53:00.013-04:00

Climbing on the mat . . . I think I can!

It's a little tall for me just yet . . .

Meet Connor and . . . Connor! Two Connor's in the class!

They all want the bubbles.

Happy Boy chasing the bubbles!

Catching some rays at the pool.

Not sure what Daddy is doing, but Connor was very happy!

Now Daddy is happy and we don't know what Connor is doing!

We signed Connor up for something called the Little Gym. It's a fun place for kids to go where they can further develop their social skills and wear off some of that energy they have. It's not a workout session by any means, but they do activities that help to stretch the body.

At first Connor was a little cautious, as usual, but he warmed up quickly to it. Miss Christy told us if the kids run off the mat, checking things out - let them. It's their way of becoming comfortable in their environment. And sure enough, just like she said, he would always come running back and join the group. Naturally, he wasn't the only one wandering off.

They change activities every few minutes and sing a song at the change of each activity. For example, they will sing "It's time to play with the balls today, balls today, balls today, it's time to play with the balls today, at the Little Gym". They play with jingle bells, balls, bubbles, a parachute (the kids get on it and we spin them around and we also wave it up and down over the kids). Then they get free time to roam the gym and play on the mats, the equipment. Connor did the rings (you know, the ones gymnasts use), the tunnels, the balance beam, things like that. The class is only 45 minutes long, but then we went to Wal Mart for just a few minutes afterward. When we got in the car to go home, he was out in less than a minute. We are considering signing him up for something similar, though it geared more towards music (since he loves watching music stuff on Nick Jr) and is hosted by the Town of Cary. If we do that, he will have the Little Gym and leave and go right to music class and then home for lunch.

As most of you know, he got bit at school last week by another child. I guess Connor had a toy and the other kid wanted it, so he/she bit Connor for it. You could see the mark a day or two afterwards. Didn't break the skin though. But, ever since then he has reached a 'hitting phase". He wants to hit Mommy & Daddy and of course Buddy & Chloe. Poor Buddy just wants to be left alone and all Connor wants to do is chase him. Chloe will play with Connor, but Buddy is the grumpy old man so he is not interested in playing. We're trying to teach Connor to give Buddy his space. It's not working yet. :)

At any rate, we asked the teacher about it and we have some new approaches that we are going to try for the hitting. Just a phase he is going through she says. He'll grow out of it.

He still loves to go outdoors. We've taken him to the pool about 3 times already and of course, our trip to the beach. It's been so hot out though I hate to take him out there. We color on the driveway with sidewalk chalk, swing in his swing, push the wagon or tricycle and sweep. He loves to sweep the garage. He's also showing some signs of being a neat child. Every time he passes a door that is open - he closes it. We know where he gets that from - Momma!

I was in the laundry room last night and noticed that Kevin had left out a pair of shorts and a shirt that both had food stains on them and needed to be treated. I told him now we know where Connor gets his messy eating habits from. He is honestly the messiest eater in his class!

We got the papers that he is moving up to the next class in about a month (around 7/12). I hate to see him leave Mrs. Melinda's class, but I know it has to be done. She has been just wonderful to work with and she adores Connor. Both of his teachers say that he is very expressive - you can just see the joy and amazement on his face when something interests him or makes him happy. And of course he lets you know when he is mad. He's got a little temper on him. If you tell him no to something, he takes his pacy out and just throws it on the floor. Like, HA! Look what I just did. Now what are you going to do about it?? NA NA NA NA NA NA

Not much else going on around here. The 4th is just around the corner and I can't wait to take Connor to the fireworks again. Hopefully he likes them just as much this year as last year. He's really so much fun to be around these days. He runs and plays and interacts so well with us. This past weekend I did nothing but play with Connor and I loved it. I'd much rather be playing with him than doing anything else. And since he goes to bed so early, I can catch up on laundry then! We just love our little boy!!

We just got a post, we just got a post, we just got a post - wow, its about time!

2010-03-05T13:14:00.013-05:00

Kebina and Little Kebina

Showing off my walking legs . . .

Hmmmm. Do I dare go down this slide? He did decide to!

Going across the bridge . . .

Excuse me sir, do you know how fast you were going?

He really was happy - you just have to grab a shot when you can these days!

Loves to ride in his little red wagon . . .

And sometimes, we like to throw Chloe in there with him.

Cool dude. He has some much cooler shades now though.

I think Daddy is having more fun than Connor!

Yup. One kid loves another. :)

Loves the swings at the playground in our neighborhood.

I don't remember when this was taken, but it looks like spaghetti night!

Connor did enjoy the snow we had a couple months ago!

Wow . . . Where does the time go? I can't believe it has been so long since I posted, but once Connor found his walking legs, it was all over. The child is always on the go - such a boy! He loves to climb any and everything. When I picked him up one day last week at school, his teacher told me just that day he had climbed onto the table and across it to get another child's cheerios. :) Too funny! He also has learned how to hike his leg up so he can try to climb into the bathtub! I guess it is our own fault. We bought him a slide as one of his Easter presents and it is one that does not have steps. Rather, it has a little ledge that you climb onto, so you can sit and play before sliding down. He loves climbing all over the thing.

Now that is has become warm, we've also discovered just how much Connor likes being outdoors! We usually leave the back door open so that he can go out onto the covered porch as much as he likes and just lock the screen door out there. I think he just likes the challenge of getting in and out of there. We had a plumbing issue a couple weeks ago and they've recently torn up the hardwoods, waiting for the subflooring to dry before they lay new hardwoods. So that means there is a little bump getting onto that section and getting off. He loves to walk up and down that area and push his push toys over the little humps.

He's still getting colds a little too often for me, but hey, that's daycare. Just a lot of runny noses and coughs. You get it well and it returns again. Probably something to do with allergies too. I know mine have been a pain since Spring started. Other than that, very healthy! He had a 15 month check up two weeks ago and is still 75% for height and weight and 85% for head size. We were at the park today (which he loved) and there was a little girl there with her grandma. She asked me how old Connor was and I said 15.5 months and she was like OH WOW! He is going to be a big boy! Connor was JUST as big as the little 2 year old girl. Amazing.

He's really talking pretty good. He is supposed to have a vocabulary of about 10 words right now. He can say duck (his first word), more, all done, (he also signs those two words), mama, dada, bye bye, hi, and book. Those are the ones he says most often (and of course, he tries to say Buddy and Chloe a little bit) and every once in a while he throws another word in there. Today he learned the word pacy (for his pacifier) but he called it "pass". Close enough for me! If you ask him where things are, he can point to them - mickey mouse (on a chair in his play room), fish, big truck, ball, light, fan, high chair, shoes, nose, ears, hair, bus - things like that. He's moving right along doing all the things he should be at this age.

We did, though, have to make a couple of changes. First, we took away his bedtime milk. He was getting a bottle or sippy cup of milk at bedtime and really, he gets enough ounces during the day at school, so we took the night time feeding away. He barely noticed. The first night he looked at me like where is it, but didn't put up any fuss at all. The second night, he didn't even give me the look! The second change we had to make was making him put himself to bed. I let him sit in my lap watching Nick Jr every night before bed and that's where he fell asleep (and I admit it, I fell asleep with or before him quite a bit!). Then he would get moved to his bed. So , we decided no more of that (though I really, really miss it - I mean one day he won't want to sit on my lap at all! Shouldn't you hold on to these things as long as you can??!). First night, he was so tired he fell asleep in the car on the way home from my grandma's house. He didn't stir when I took him out of the car seat, into the house (where the dogs were barking) and I put him straight to bed. I believe that is the ONLY night he has not had a bath before bed time. I hated not to give it to him, but I hated worse to wake him. Second night, he cried 20 minutes. Third night, maybe 6 or 7. Third night, maybe 2-3. Now no more tears! I bathe him, get him ready for bed and then Kevin and I take turns holding him and getting our hugs and kisses good night and then one of us (because it is VERY important that Kevin do this sometimes too in case I am not here for one reason or another) puts him down in his crib, tell him we love him, we're right outside if he needs us and night night. Not one fuss in days! He also does really well with nap time too - same thing. Goes right down. He doesn't nap as long as I'd like but that's another story.

The next change we're working on is backing up his bed time. He was going to bed around 8:45 or so, but he gets up between 6 and 6:30 most days. That is NOT good on weekend mornings! So, the doc suggested backing up his bed time. Sounds crazy, but she says he is not getting into the really deep sleep but that if he were he'd probably sleep longer. So, we backed it up to 8:30 and then 8:15 and now tonight 8am for the first time. We'll do this slowly until he is at a 7:30 bedtime. Wow - I won't know what to do with myself! Maybe catch up the ironing or the blog since those are the things I find it hardest to get to. :) Hopefully he'll begin sleeping in until 7am.

After all that is done (and hopefully works), we'll move him to a big boy bed in the next few months, start potty training (maybe 18 months?) and self feeding. He does really well with spoon feeding himself now, for the most part, but he needs to get used to that a little more. He's starting to become very independant. There were some items he still let us spoon feed to him, but not anymore. He wants the spoon AND the cup and he wants to do it himself! He does best with applesauce and yogurt (we found a kind he actually likes!). Although one night he was still eating and Kevin had gone upstairs for something and I was working on the dishes and I turn around he has taken the cup of applesauce, thrown it over the side of the high chair and it landed ALL OVER BUDDY! Poor dog. Speaking of, we had company last night for dinner (Aunt Jenn, Uncle John & Aunt Sarah) and I was in the kitchen making a salad. As usual, Connor decides he needs Mommy to pick him up. I've gotten REALLY GOOD at doing things one handedly! So, I had just cut some cucumber and of course, he wanted some. So I am feeding him some and throwing some more into the bowl. I then took some trash to the trash can, start walking back to the cutting board and pass the nice big yellow salad bowl on the way. You can guess what happens next. Connor grabs the bowl, pulls it off the counter and WHAM! Breaks all over the floor, salad flying everywhere. And poor Connor - it startled him so bad he was in tears. I just kept telling him, its OK, it was just an accident, Mommy's not mad - but dang it, I really wanted some salad! LOL Oh well. Never a dull moment around here.

I can't think of much else that is going on since we last wrote. He is completely out of the helmet, of course. His head looks GREAT! We are so pleased with it. He has 3 bottom teeth and 4 top teeth. He also has molars coming in. He is getting all kinds of scrapes and bruises from falling and just being a boy. He hardly ever cries anymore when he falls. He hates having his toenails cut, but does not mind the fingernails. He likes being tickled and riding on Daddy's shoulders.

We have enrolled Connor in The Little Gym, so we start that in another month or so. We'll go on Saturday mornings and he'll play in the gym for an hour or so. Should be lots of fun. My friend Annie is going to teach both Connor and I how to swim, which I am really excited about it. I sort of know how, I just don't know how to tread water. So, we'll get to spend a lot of time at the pool this summer. :)

Other than that, not much else going on. Next weekend is my second real Mother's Day, which I am very excited about. Saturday will also mark the 2 year anniversary of when I found out we were having Connor. I don't think I'll forget that moment for as long as I live. Kev and I have our six year wedding anniversary in a couple of weeks too. Busy month for us. Not sure what we'll do yet, but I am sure we'll take it easy and just enjoy being a family. We really do love to spend all of our free time with each other. When we're not with Connor, our conversation somehow always steers back to what do you think he's doing now or I really miss the little fella. We just can't get enough of our son. We love you sweet guy!!PS - You know you are a parent when you can't get kids TV songs out of your head. The title of this post goes with the "We just got a letter" song from Blues Clues. These things really get stuck in your head! PSS - Uncle Tim I am still working on trying to get a video on here. I can't seem to figure out how to get the camcorder to upload a video, though I have tried several times! Will take one on my camera so we can get one on here soon.

Happy First Birthday, Son!

2010-01-12T22:31:00.002-05:00

Dearest Connor,

Happy First Birthday, Son! It's hard to believe that just one year ago today, you came into our lives just as smoothly and calmly as your good natured personality is today. You did just what you were supposed to and made labor very easy for Mommy! We are so very proud of you, sweetheart, and couldn't have asked for a better little boy. We promise to always love you, take care of you and support you for as long as we both shall live. You are our life now & we are so very blessed to have you! We love you, Connor!

Love,

Mom & Dad

PS - You had an excellent first birthday! We only sang to you about a dozen times (which you thoroughly enjoyed!), daycare sang to you & served you cupcakes that Mommy made for you. We picked you up a little early and took you to Monkey Joe's - which you loved and then out to a nice dinner where you had Penne Alfredo and applesauce! Such the big boy!

Connor's First Birthday Party

2010-01-10T10:53:00.021-05:00

Connor with his Great Grandparents (Kevin's Grandparents)

Mommy helped me open ALL my gifts. Next year it is Daddy's turn!

As you can tell, I was more interested in playing than the actual opening gifts part.

The bib Aunt Becca gave me says it all.

This is one of my all time fave pics. Cousin Jordan isn't usually so calm and sweet as he is in this pic, shows a different side of him . . . to me anyway.

All right. Down to my birthday suit (sort of). Where's the cake??

As you can see, I did NOT like getting messy.

Connor with one of his favorite Christmas toys. Mom & Dad got him this one.

Practicing my baseball skills early.

Mom & Connor hanging out in the playroom.

Hmmmmm. Now how does THIS work?

Connor cruising the log at the mall, on a playdate.

See, Mom, I can do it!

Another favorite picture. He looks a little wistful here.

Davy Crockett, King of the Wild Frontier!

Connor's playmate, Chase.

This is how Mr. Connor likes to fall asleep. My precious angel.

Connor does NOT like his new winter coat, as you can see!

Got me some new kicks! Stride Rites - they'll help me to walk!

Connor on Christmas Morning.

The tree (the pink pigs are for the dogs).

He did not like the messy cupcake on his hand.

Connor at his school Christmas party. Munchin on a cheese puff!

Are Mom & Dad watching me?

Yesterday was Connor's First Brthday Party! He had a good time, but was very tired! He only napped about an hour in the early afternoon yesterday and he finally went to bed about 8:45 last night. Slept good, though. Have to admit - we did too!

He must take after his mother though. He did not enjoy making a mess with his cake. He played in it for a few minutes and then was crying to get away from it. :) He was like that at his Thanksgiving party at school also - he put his fingers in his cupcake and then was waving his hand all around trying to get if off of there!

He wasn't too into opening his gifts, as suspected. He is visually stimulated by them once they are open though. He loves all of his new toys and most definitely his new clothes (of which we are very appreciative). Got several new books, which is always good, and some money to go towards the TV we'll be buying for his playroom (that's our present to him) and some to go to his college education fund. He got a new BIG Tonka truck, which seems to be his favorite (good job, Uncle Tim!), a monkey puppet (soooo cute) that goes with his 5 Little Monkeys book, a sippy cup with his name on it (LOVE IT), a birthday boy angel, a guitar, a push mower, a construction equipment puzzle (my favorite - reminds me of cousin Jeff) and more. Thanks to everyone who came and thank you for all of the gifts.

In other news, we find out tomorrow whether Connor has 2 weeks or 4 weeks left in his helmet. She added a patch at the last appointment to be even more aggressive in getting his head to finish rounding out. Wwe are hopeful it is only 2 more weeks. I have to admit that I will miss it when it is gone, but Kevin will not. It gives me great relief to know that he is protected with it on. Yesterday, he went without it at his party and ended up with two bumps on his forehead, a scratch on top of the head and a scratch on one eyelid! POOR THING! I felt so bad. He kind of looked like cousin Caleb by nights end with all the bumps and scrapes.

Connor also has 6 teeth coming in. He's been really good about it, but sometimes he does get a little fussy about them. He is drooling like crazy! They include his front two teeth and his left canine, so they aren't easy ones. The left front tooth has broken through and is coming in nicely, the right front is still breaking through the gums. He is also going through some separation anxiety lately. He had tears streaming down his face when Dad dropped him off at school a couple times this week. Better him than me. I'd have to take him back home and call in to work!

He's also very close to walking. He got his first pair of hard soled shoes a couple of weeks ago, but has really been wearing them for about a week now. He's trying to adjust his balance from going from soft soled to hard soled shoes. Any day now he is gonna let go and take a few steps. He will take steps between us and between items (couch and table) if it is within arm's reach. He can cruise down the wall easily and LOVES to climb the stairs. We put a gate at the top of the stairs not long ago so I don't know if it is the gate or the challenge of the stairs that attracts him the most.

Tuesday is his 1stbirthday, so we'll probably do something special with him that evening & probably send cupcakes or something to school with him so he can celebrate. Thursday we have his one year check up and shots, so that is always fun. He is such a good sport about everything. He cries for just one second after the shots and he's over it. Such a trooper, our little man.

That's about it for now. Hope everyone has a great week!

Happy 11th Month Birthday, Son!

2009-12-12T17:22:00.014-05:00

Connor's first day in his helmet (and his provider, Heather, at UNC)

Connor in the wagon at school for Halloween - he sort of slid down here!

The second time the parade came around, his teacher, Mrs. Sarah, had him

Connor's class at the Halloween party... Bring on the cheese puffs!

Surprisingly, it was a well bahaved table

Connor and his other teacher, Mrs. Melinda (and Aunt Angela in the background)

Mommy & Connor on a hayride

Connor in the pumpkin patch

Connor & Daddy by the tractor at the Corn Maze

Mommy & Evil Knievil at the neighborhood party

Let's see what we have here . . .

Say what, Daddy?

This was the Sunday after Halloween & the first time Connor pushed a toy around on the floor!

Daddy & Connor in the backyard, admiring the fall colors

Ugh! But I WANT to read THIS book!

Whose ready for bath time???

Connor playing in the laundry room while waiting for the bath water to run

And my favorite picture of all! Look at that cute little hiney just waiting to get in the tub!

Thanksgiving lunch at Connor's School. The turkey pasta salad was DELISH!

Momma helped feed me so I wouldn't make TOO much of a mess . . .

Daddy & Connor at the Thanksgiving Luncheon

And now that he finished his lunch, it's time for a bottle and then a nap!

Look at our big boy drinking his milk all by himself!

Hmmm. Think they'll notice if I get in the kitchen cabinets?

Mommy decided that Aunt Becca should get on her shoulders and she would take her around the 9 ft tree to put on the lights......Good times!

Like Father, Like Son. NAP TIME!!

Time is just flying by way too fast! Connor is 11 months old today! So hard to believe that in another month he will be ONE YEAR OLD! We can't wait to have his party and celebrate the occassion! It's been quite some time since I was able to update the blog, so let me bring you guys up to speed on what is going on in our's and Connor's lives.

Connor has been in his helmet for about a month and a half full time now. He's made significant progress and as of his last appointment two weeks ago - is over 50% of the way to the goal. Most kids wear a helmet for 4 months, but Connor won't have to go that long. She said at the last appointment to give it another month and see where he is at then. We'll keep you posted on that. Connor doesn't mind wearing it in the least and to be honest, it is GREAT protection! Best decision to put him in the helmet. Come to think of it, I don't think there are any regrets on the decisions we've made for Connor. We're doing pretty good as first time parents, I'd say!

Developmentally, Connor is ALMOST walking. He's letting go of the furniture with one hand, but has yet to let go with both. He's cruising great and moves from object to object without hesitation (i.e. - couch to the coffee table or kitchen table to the cabinet). He is into everything though - loves opening the kitchen/bathroom cabinets and drawers. We made a trip up to Babies R Us today for some more baby proofing items. He's also become very chatty/vocal. As of last Sunday his new favorite thing to say is MA MA! I am so proud! Interestingly enough I think it was Tuesday night he said BEH-CAH - my youngest sister's name. Surprises me because he doesn't see her all that often, but it made her day! He's now saying MAH-CAH - my name! YAY! I just love this little rascal. So - more sounds are coming and we try not to give him his pacy too much so that we can encourage more speech development.

Food wise - this child really does like everything. He's now eating finger foods solely. Rarely will I feed him something out of the jar these days. He loves Momma's cooking too. Some of his favorites so far are spagetti (Momma style - noodles and sauce only - no meat), grilled cheese sandwich, chicken nuggets, oatmeal, and he adores the fruits and veggies we feed him - even asparagus! We are trying very hard to get him to eat what we're having for dinner and not to cook him something seperate - but some nights that doesn't work.

Speaking of food . . . Thanksgiving has come and gone since I updated the blog. For the first time ever - I cooked a holiday dinner! And for 11 people - mostly my in-laws! It came out as a great success. I was excited not only because it was my first time cooking such a meal, but also because it was Connor's first Thanksgiving. I was excited for him to have my food for the occasion. Since it came out so well, we are hosting Christmas Day dinner at my house for my family this time around. We'll see if I do as good as I did at Thanksgiving . . .

Connor is still loving school. When you come in to pick him up - he is so excited to see you. It is such a great feeling! We are really excited about his first Christmas, also. We bought him a few things - not many since he won't really know & since his birthday is right around the corner. We'll be sure to get some pics (maybe even a video if we can) to post to the blog.

Halloween also happened since I updated. Connor was a skeleton for school on Friday and on Saturday, he was Evil Knievel for a block party in our neighborhood. We had to do something to celebrate the helmet!

Connor also had a birthday party to go to today and wouldn't you know Kevin and I BOTH forgot the camera? DUH! His friend Reed (our neighbor's son) turned 2 this week and had a party today at the Little Gym in Holly Springs. Connor had a blast! We may sign him up for Saturday mornings there - get some of that excess energy out!

Other than that, I don't think there is much going on with Connor. He's had a couple of colds in the interim (seems to be an almost ongoing thing) but nothing too serious. I am sure it is just a mixture of daycare and the winter weather. It's been a little cold here lately!

Work has been exceptionally busy for me. I am hoping it slows down in January some. Kevin's been steady with his work, also - foreclosures on the rise again. :( Kevin seems to keep a cold about as often as Connor - so I am hoping that both of them get to feeling better soon and break the cycle of cold passing to one another. The deer are doing great, although my buck has been MIA. Jordan, my oldest nephew, went deer hunting with his Paw-Paw (a big no no according to Aunt Monica), and shot his first deer last Friday and his second one yesterday. Tsk Tsk Aunt Rebekah for letting Jordan do that! Caleb is doing good in school and both boys did great with tackle football. They started practice for basketball last week.

Noah and Laurel are doing great. Laurel got her hearing aids about a week and a half ago, and if I understand things right from Michael, she is able to hear some with the hearing aids! That is great news! They'll keep checking her to make sure this is working for her and if it doesn't, they will try cochlear implants.

That's about all I can think of for now. Connor is napping so I am trying to get the pics posted before he gets up! Hope you guys enjoy!

9 Month Photo Shoot

2009-10-28T08:02:00.009-04:00

Such a happy little family . ..

And a very happy little boy!!

Mom & Me

This is one of my favorite pictures! I just love the fall!

Another favorite. This is what he does when he is concentrating. I know who he got this from!

See my two bottom teeth??? I just got a third on top!

Very serious, yet sweet . . .

Here are some pictures we had done of Connor on Sunday for his 9 month photo session. As usual, he is so easygoing that the picture taking is very easy.

Connor received his helmet on Monday and yesterday was his first day wearing it! The schedule was wear it for an hour, remove it for an hour - all day except for naps and sleeping. His teacher said once it is on, he doesn't mind it at all. He did great with it. Today it will be on for 2 hours, off an hour - except naps and sleeping. After 5 days of a schedule like this, we'll be up to wearing it 23 hours as instructed. Yesterday, when he got to school, Kevin put the helmet on him and then a little girl and her Mommy came into the classroom. The little girl walked right up to Connor and started rubbing the helmet. It was so cute, Kevin said. Then Kevin had to go to the car for something and come back and Connor was by the bookshelf and all you could see was a helmet and two pretty blue eyes. It was quite funny! Kev has my camera today, but we do have some pictures of him in his helmet we'll be posting in the next few days.

That is all that is new on our end. Hope everyone has a great week!

First Haircut!

2009-10-23T09:07:00.014-04:00

What the heck is this? What does she think she is going to do to me?

Yikes!

Well, now, I have something to play with so this isn't so bad.

Snip snip here and snip snip there . . .

Ooooohhhh - WOW.............

I can probably put this in my mouth . . .

All done! Emily, Daddy and Connor

Wow - October has been an incredibly busy month! We've had such non stop events that I have not had any time to update the blog. So much is going on . . .

Most importantly, Kevin & I have made the decision to put Connor in a helmet. Connor has torticollis (or did have rather) which really equates to having a stiff neck in adults. Due to this, Connor liked to lay his head to the right when sleeping (and not to the left), so his head flattened some in the back. We worked extensively trying to get him to turn to the left and we have done an excellent job - his range of motion is pretty much normal now. However, despite how hard we worked to keep him off the flat spot so that his head could round out more in the back, the plastic surgeon recommended that we go ahead and do the helmet so that we have 100% certainly that it will round out. It may round out more on its own over the next three months, but it may not. Better safe than sorry. So on Monday (the 26th), we will go to pick up the helmet from UNC and start wearing it. Personally, I think he will be just adorable in it!

In other news, Connor has also started a new classroom at school. The ages used to be 6 weeks up to 12 months and then 12-24 months. To help keep the children closer in respect to gross motor skill development, they have now changed it up to be 6 weeks to 9 months, 9 to 15 months and 16 to 24 months. Connor has two new teachers - Mrs. Melinda and Mrs. Sarah. He has done really well transitioning into the new class. They try to get the kids to all snack and nap at the same time - which is a small adjustment for Connor. He can adapt very well to new schedules! He really has blossomed since entering the new classroom. We now are crawling on all fours (previously was the commando style), pulling up to standing, enjoy walking while holding his hands, becoming much more vocal, and he has started new foods! We're now on stage 3 Gerber's - a little chunkier and the introduction of meat. He is also eating finger foods - Cheerios, Gerber Puffs, Animal Crackers, mashed up bananas and noodles, etc. He is LOVING the new food. And he drinks his water out of his own little sippy cup - so cute! Dinner has now gone to a 35 minute or so affair - which is good. He can munch on his finger snacks while we eat and then one of us feeds him the jar food while the other does the dishes. Works out well.

He still has just his bottom two teeth - no top ones yet. Developmentally he is right where he should be, according to his pediatrician at his 9 month check up. He also had a seasonal flu shot, so that should keep him healthy. To be honest, I am a little surprised that he has only had one major sickness since birth and that was shortly after starting school. He has the occassional cough or runny nose, but to be formula fed - this kids is pretty healthy! So are his parents, so that is not really a surprise . . . .

We go this weekend for our 9 month pictures. I'll try to post those next week. Oh yes - and the haircut! He did SO well with it. Emily, who is our good friend and stylist, trimmed Connor's hair up for me around the ears. I know everyone loves his hair long - it's getting some of Mommy's curls - but truly - the kid needed a haircut. Mommy knows best! It had just gotten way too long over the ears. Emily did a great job, as usual.

In other news, Uncle John got married last weekend (17th) to Sarah. What a beautiful wedding - and bride! We couldn't be happier for them. We also have about 6 birthdays in October, so we're busy with parties. Next week is Halloween & Connor was going to be a lobster but since he will now have the helmet, I think we're going to switch it up to be a football player or something like that. He has a parade at school next Friday where they get to wear their costumes, so I will post some pictures of that as well. Our little boy is growing so fast!

That's about all for now. More to come soon. Enjoy the cool, crisp, fall weather. It is my favorite time of the year!

Laurel is here!

2009-09-24T07:52:00.004-04:00

Baby Laurel sucking her thumb. That's Aunt Kathy behind her.

The Evans Family - from L to R - Laurel, Michael, Noah & Martha

Michael & Laurel just coming in from their 18 hour plane ride!

Noah while he was waiting for his Da Dat to come home.

As many of you know, my cousin Michael and his wife Martha (who kept Connor until he was able to go to preschool) have been in the process of adopting a little girl from the Ukraine. On Saturday September 19th - after almost six weeks of traveling - Michael and Laurel finally arrived back home in the US! Everyone is doing well and settling in just fine. I know this was a long journey for both Michael & Martha and very difficult to leave their son, Noah, behind while traveling to the Ukraine to get everything in order. We are glad that the process is behind them and that they can now enjoy their new daughter.

Congratulations, guys! We are so very happy and excited for you! We lovingly welcome Laurel to the family and can't wait to get to know her better!

Lots of Updates

2009-09-04T13:15:00.052-04:00

Uncle Tim & Connor

Aunt Rebekah & Connor

My first wound! You wouldn't believe me if I told you how this one happened!

See the skinned nose? Accident #2 last week. Connor did a face plant on the playground at school. Oh yes - those are prunes he's eating and yes, Daddy was feeding him.

Ahhhh - it's bath time!

Rubber ducky you're the one . . .

Huh? What's that?

Jailbird. :) He actually really enjoys playing in here at dinner time.

This was Connor while we were singing Happy Birthday to him yesterday.

You want some of this???

Just wouldn't be a post without a pic of my other family . . .

Big poppa and two of the little ones.

Wow - lots has happened since our last post.

In good news - Connor has his two bottom teeth! They are so adorable. Of course, he doesn't like to open his mouth and show them to you, so the only time we can see them really well is at night when he falls asleep. I then get out the little flashlight and open his mouth so we can look at them. Soooo cute!

Our little boy is also crawling! He does a really good job of the army crawl and the teachers at school say he is keeping up with the older kids. I'd say he started the crawling about a week or so ago - around seven and a half months. And let me just say - this is a whole new change for us. Now that he is mobile, he is in to everything. You can't just sit and watch him any longer - you're trying to get ahead of him, anticipating what he might reach for next. It's tiring, but so much fun. I did try to upload a video of this but it just will not upload! Sorry!!

On a note so good note - poor Connor had his very first illness last week. Silver lining - at least he was 7 and a half months before he ever really caught his first cold. On the not so bright side, it was a viral infection that lasted several days (that he passed on to Mom) that turned into a double ear infection! We went to the doctor three times last week and I am confident they knew I was a first time Mom. I didn't know what to do with a sick child! At least we will know what to do should he get sick in the future.

My grandmother used to say that when we were sick, she'd stay up with us all night. And even now, at the ripe 'ole age of 31, she still will call me several times a day if I am sick to see how I am feeling. I never quite understood that. Until now. Amazing what experiencing this on your own can do for you. Kevin and I make quite a good pair as far as this is concerned because I panic over everything where sickness is concerned and Kevin is very nonchalant about sickness. Brings us to a good medium.

But to make matters worse last week - not only was Connor sick, they also gave him a flu shot, he was teething with that second bottom tooth and he had his first couple of accidents and wounds last week too. My poor little boy!

In other news - Martha is back home!! YAY!! Michael (my cousin) is still over in the Ukraine finalizing the adoption of their little girl. He and Laurel are expected home next Saturday. Please pray for a quick and safe trip home for him and Laurel and that she will adjust nicely to this change in her life.

School is going well for Connor and he has adjusted well. I do think that he was a little overstimulated at first because he would wake quite often in the night and you'd have to go in to comfort him and get him back to sleep (Dad's job for the most part). Once he had been in school a couple weeks though, this went down to maybe once or twice a night - just having to give him his pacy back.

Mom & Dad went to Uncle John and soon to be Aunt Sarah's couples shower a couple of weekends ago, which was alot of fun. Aunt Rebekah kept Connor for a few hours while we did that. We also got to see Aunt Krissy and Uncle Wes as well as Uncle Tim that weekend too since they were visiting from out of town.

Speaking of family . . . Kevin's Aunt Nancy and Uncle Jim have just moved here from the DC area. Kevin's grandparents moved here from the DC area this weekend also. Ironically, Aunt Nancy and Uncle Jim have not visited our house before, but their realtor took them to look at a house on our street - not knowing that is where we lived! Small world. They ended up choosing another house though, but we would have been happy to have them as neighbors!!

Cousin Jordan and Cousin Caleb are now playing football. They are practicing now, but should have their first games in a couple weeks. We'll try to make it and get some pics to post on here.

I think that is all that has been going on lately, but there could be some things I missed. Its late at night (since I don't have alot of free time to update the blog) so if I forgot to mention something, family, I'm sorry!

Hope everyone has a great week. More to come soon. And Happy 8 Months to our darling baby boy!

First Week at School

2009-08-14T12:55:00.018-04:00

Connor and Miss Yelena, his teacher from Russia (don't you love this new thing he is doing with tucking his lip??)

This is what Connor was doing when Mommy picked him up yesterday.

Ugh! They caught me chewing on my toys again.

OK, OK, I surrender!

I mean, really?? (Doesn't this sound & look like Aunt Rebekah?)

Daddy thought it would be cute to show my rump-a-licious hiney.

So happy watching my Baby Einstein vidoes.

Aunt Rebekah & Uncle Ryan (Mommy's youngest sister and husband).

Grandma, Uncle Brian and Aunt Angela (Mommy's oldest sister & her husband and my granny).

I know, I know! This is hilarious! Uncle Brian thought it would be nice to play with Ma's hair piece and she did not know she looked like this until after I took the picture. She may kill me for putting this on here, but I can't resist.

Connor, in swim gear, taking a nap on the way to the beach.

Mommy, Daddy and Me (I am not one of those women who look good with wind blown hair!)

Walking on the beach - that's Cousin Jordan way in the background by the water.

Little Baby Deer and Momma Deer eating dinner.

And, I got a good pic of my 4 pointer buck. This is about as close as they will let me get to them.

So, Connor started school!!! YAY! His first day was Monday of this week and Kevin and I both were there to see him off for his first day. Yeah, I admit, I cried a little bit once I got back outside to the car. But, I realize that it is just so beneficial for him and that erases some of the sadness. They do grow up very quickly. We just hit 7 months this week and I just can't get over the fact that 7 months ago I was 28 lbs heavier and carrying around an almost 8 lb baby inside of me. Crazy.

Connor wasn't supposed to go to school for another week or so, but my cousin Michael and his wife Martha (who kept Connor since he was 2 months old) got the approval for their adoption last Monday and had to fly out the following Monday! They are in the Ukraine now and hope to bring their daughter, Laurel, back with them when they return at the end of this month. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they travel and meet their new little girl.

Connor does enjoy school quite a bit - I think he likes seeing the other babies - but he sure does miss his Martha! He saw her before she left and he just grins so big when he sees her. I know it was just as hard for her and little Noah as it was for us and Connor to make this change, but it was time for it and it has worked out great for all of us. Martha and Mike - thank you again so much for all that you have done for us over the past six months. You were a great blessing to us and we are just so grateful that you were so willing to help us in our time of need.

Connor has two teacher - Miss Yelena, from Russia, and Miss Essence, who lives right in Raleigh. He seems to love both of them and enjoys playing with the other kids. He is smiling so much these days - his little personality is just shining through. His teachers say he has done great this week - no fussiness or anything. He is a very laid back baby and just as content as can be. He has enjoyed story time, music time and water play time! They play with buckets of water outside in their swim suits and Connor almost dunked himself with the bucket of water he is so strong. Miss Yelena calls him chubby white haired boy, which gives Daddy a good laugh. The school will send us pics from time to time and I will try to post those on here as well. Daddy will be the one to take Connor and pick him up, so it makes it a little easier on Mommy!

I also included some pictures from when we went to the beach with my family a couple weeks ago. We didn't stay in the sun too much, but Connor really enjoyed walking on the beach in the evenings. It was nice, cool, breezy weather - so that was nice. He did good on the car ride, too. I'm telling you - he is a trooper! He handles all kinds of changes so good.

Speaking of change . . . we're changing his feeding and sleeping schedule! I do this every so often to accommodate his age. So, at six months we decided that we would like to try taking him off of his acid reflux medicine, so we did and he is doing great without it. I think he has outgrown that issue. For those of you who don't know, babies with acid reflux have to be held upright for at least 25 mins after eating before you can put them down to nap. So for six months, Connor got used to be held and then put down to sleep. We had to teach him how to put himself to bed at night. And it took some time over several nights (one night until midnight) to get him to learn to put himself to bed and now he does it without any problem. It was hard to live thru that, but it is worth it now! He goes to bed at 9pm and sleeps til 7am. :)

He's also sitting up really good by himself now. He doesn't need much support at all. Rolling both ways of course and no teeth yet, though I can feel them through his gums. Any time now they'll be pushing on through. I can also feel the top ones too, so they won't be far behind the bottom two.

Other than that, not much else going on here. Some of Daddy's family - Uncle Tim, Aunt Krissy and Uncle Wes - are coming into town for the weekend. Uncle John and soon to be Aunt Sarah are having a bridal shower this weekend, so we'll be hanging out in Chapel Hill this weekend. We'll be sure to take lots of pics to post on the site!

Hope everyone has a great week!

The Happy Days of Summer . . .

2009-07-20T12:44:00.007-04:00

Awww - isn't our happy little boy so sweet??

As you can tell, like Father, like Son. I think we have us another appraiser here, folks!

Dad & Connor celebrating 4th of July. Connor LOVED the fireworks display!

Well, now, let's see how we like the pool . . .

Hmmm. This is MUCH colder than the water at home, Mom.

One step, two steps, three steps, four!

Me & Dad at the pool. Getting a little fussy cause it's eating time and I LOVE to eat!

This is one of my faves! Connor on the carousel at Pullen Park.

Celebrating my six month Birthday at the park.

BIG kisses from Momma!

Oh all right, I'll give you a half smile . . .

Connor LOVES to go out in his Baby Bjorn. Bad for my back, but worth it for him!

Giddy Up Horsey! Giddy Up!

Well, I don't know about the rest of you, but we're enjoying the days of summer. You have to be really careful how long you're out with Connor though - he does have the tendancy to get heat rash on his tummy and back. I do believe this is one hot natured kid. He's wore me down into sleeping in just a onesie and some socks. NOTHING ELSE! I really think he needs something on those fat little legs of his, but hey, whatever makes him happy!

Connor has done some serious developing in the past week to week and a half. Martha says that when I went back to work FT Connor was in a little bit of a funk there, but is now in a groove again. He's so much more alert and interactive all of a sudden. It's great to watch his eyes light up at a toy and he's starting banging on a couple of them. He's also rolling really well - both ways - tummy to back and back to tummy. He does really good supported sitting (you just gotta sit behind him so he doesn't fall backwards). He's still making lots of noise! Matter of fact, Kevin took him to Starbucks last week with him and he started doing his 'Ahhhhhhh' thing which sounds like high pitched squeling to me. But, this elderly man said to Kevin, "Well, I don't think I've heard anything quite like that before. It sounds like he is singing" - and he is so right! It's hilarious and Kevin & I just want him to keep making noise - so no pacy unless it is sleep time or unless he is fussy. The more noise, the better (for now anyways!).

Connor loved the fireworks we took him to see for the 4th. He was in just awe over the colors and the noise of it all. Was not scared a bit. We got off schedule, but it is OK. Come to think of it, since that time he has started to get seperation anxiety in his sleep I think. He's now certain that if he cries in the night, Mommy and Daddy will come running. Usually it is Daddy (I figure it is his turn to take care of him!) but . . . we're been advised it is best to let him cry it out. The docs and the physical therapist both agree. Might take a week, but we're gonna work on that. It's not so much that he awakens, its more like he whines a little and just wants you to put your hand on him and he goes right back to sleep. Takes 4 to 5 minutes usually and happens 2 to 3 times a night.

He's also started eating fruits! YAY! So far, bananas and applesauce and no allergies yet (for veggies either). We'll be changing his feeding schedule next week so that Martha feeds him in the AM and I'll feed him in the PM and he'll still get 4 bottles (instead of the current 5). Will let you know how that goes.

Uncle Tim came all the way from Nashville this past weekend to see Connor. It was so good to see him and visit with him. I wish we had taken some pictures so I could post them, but you get so caught up in visiting that you forget about the pictures. Sorry about that Uncle Tim. We promise to take lots when you come home next month for John & Sarah's shower so we can post them to the blog.

Not much else going on. Hard to believe that July is almost gone and fall will be approaching soon. And then CHRISTMAS! Very excited about that of course. We are also taking our second road trip this weekend - back to South Carolina again - this time to Myrtle Beach. It will be Connor's first experience by the ocean and luckily, he can now wear sunblock (which he will be COVERED in). We're going with Aunt Angela and Uncle Brian, Aunt Rebekah & Uncle Ryan, cousins Jordan and Caleb and of course, Ma (my grandmother). I am VERY excited to be taking a vacation with my family as it has been ages since we've done that. I only wish my other little babies Buddy and Chloe could come with us. That's OK. Maybe we can take a family trip to the mountains soon . . . Mommy, Daddy, Connor, Buddy and Chloe. Sounds like fun to me!

Oh and one last note - no teeth yet, but he is definitely teething. As soon as those joker pop through, pictures for all of you! Also, we got six month pictures taken this week so family members near and far - you'll be getting your copies soon!

Have a good week!

HAPPY SIX MONTHS, CONNOR!!

2009-07-12T22:30:00.003-04:00

Happy half a birthday to our baby boy Connor! We can't believe how fast you are growing right before our very eyes. We couldn't be more proud of you, son. We love you very much!

Love,

Mommy & Daddy

Playing Catch Up

2009-06-24T20:13:00.018-04:00

Connor's First Bite of Real Food! Carrots, if you are wondering . . .

I'm just not so sure about this Mom & Dad . . .

Actually, I think I might like this!

I'm not really this messy, Mommy & Daddy did it to me!

So much to eat, I fell asleep in my high chair.

Me in the Baby Bjorn at Caleb's TBall Game.

I love to grab my feet!

Mommy's friend Karen and her son Chase. We meet them for lunch sometimes.

I was going upstairs and Connor was watching, so I had to get this one on film.

My little babies! This one is about a 4 pointer now.

Here they are - waiting for their dinner.

Our house in the summer time . . .

I love to go from laying to standing. So, one . . .

Two . . .

Three! Yay!!!

Me standing from the front. Man do I have a tiny waist!

Full length photo with Buddy in the background.

Caleb preparing to bat. That's his Dad (Uncle Ryan) behind him. He helped coach the team.

Caleb sliding into third base . . .

Catching a ball on first base. That is his brother, Jordan, in the background.

Caleb taking a swing . . .

Little Caleb! Hard to believe he is almost six!

It is unreal how much time flies when you have a baby! We've had lots going on since our last post, so I will try to catch you up.

Our friend Emily had her little girl, Remy, about 3 weeks ago. Connor & I went to visit them a couple weeks ago and I was just amazed at how little she is! She was about 8 lbs 5 oz and I thought to myself, really - Connor was that small once??? And it was only five and half months ago! Congrats to Emily & Jeremy and to little Zeke 'cause now he is a big brother!

Connor had physical therapy several weeks ago and she insists that he is just getting better all the time in terms of his torticollis. However . . . Kevin & I were still concerned about his head not rounding out in the back yet, so she suggested that we may want to start talks about him possibly wearing a helmet later down the road if it does not round out. Those of you who know me well know that this sent me into a panic. So, we made an appointment with the pediatrician whom we saw last week and she insists he is fine. She has seen far worse patients than Connor and they've never had to wear a helmet. And, in the 2 years she has been there, she has never referred a patient to a cranial facial specialist. That said, I still asked for a referral and we see the specialist Thursday at UNC to see what other suggestions he may have for helping his head to round out. We've implemented a few changes of our own and I can see some progress. It is slow going, but we do think it is working well.

Our little chunk is up to 18 lbs and 3 oz as of a week ago. This kid LOVES to eat. For big news - we started eating about 3 weeks ago! We've tried carrots, green beans, squash and this week sweet potatoes. Suprisingly, he seems to like the sweet potatoes the least. He loves the green beans though - just like Mommy! When you finish feeding him (regardless of the kind) and it is all gone, he gets very upset. Next week we'll be trying peas, which I think he might like. So far no allergies, which is good. Once we're through the veggies, it will be time for his 6 month well visit and they may allow us to start fruits. We'll keep you posted on that.

He's starting to babble more - loves to hear the sound of his voice. In the car he loves to go aaahhhh aaaahhhhh aaaaaahhhhh and his latest thing (past few days) is squeeling. He is so loud!! He's also rolling a good bit for and he likes to roll on his side and grab his toys. Martha is so good to him & works with him all the time. Noah always asks where Baby Connor is, so I know that when it comes time for Connor to go to preschool, we won't be the only ones heartbroken!

Speaking of, I went back to work full time this week and it is very sad. I'd love to be able to stay home with Connor, but know that preschool can offer so many things of benefit to him. Whoever would have thought that I would want to stay home with a baby?? Not me, that is for sure. But those little ones do change you. Martha will continue keeping Connor until August 24th and then he is off to preschool.

And in the most recent news . . . The Mazda just couldn't take it any more. We had to trade her in for a new car this past weekend. As much as I complained about Kevin handing her down to me, I do kind of miss her. We bought an 09 Honda Pilot and it has lots of room for little Connor! Big Big Thanks to Aunt Angela and Uncle Brian for all their help in trying to "revive" the Mazda and keeping our cars in line.

That's about all I can think of for now, but more to come next week (hopefully - this working thing is really eating up my time!). We should have more to report on the toritcollis and head rounding out issue then.

Road Trip!!!

2009-06-02T17:59:00.019-04:00

Mom, Dad & Connor as we prepare to leave for our first road trip.

Mom did most of the driving . . .

Dad rode shotgun part of the time . . .

Krissy & Wes - our gracious hosts

Kevin & I at the Farmer's Market in Charleston, SC

Buddy & Chloe went to stay with Monica's Grandma.

Connor just chillin' before we leave for the trip.

Are we there yet??

Aunt Krissy & Connor - he loves to check out your hands!

Aunt Krissy, Uncle Wes & Connor had a great time together.

Uncle Wes and Connor having fun.

Cousin Calvin got a pony ride while Dad, Brian, walked with him.

Cousin Kayliegh also had a pony ride. Doesn't it look like fun???

Aunt Krissy, Cousin Calvin and his Mom, Karen (Kevin's cousin).

Kayleigh taking care of Connor - she has great maternal instincts!!

Aunt Krissy and Connor, hanging out.

Blitzen - Aunt Krissy and Uncle Wes's dog.

LENNY!! Krissy & Wes were dogsitting him for some friends.

On the left is Sandy and the right is Cubby - Karen, Brian, Kayleigh & Calvin's dogs.

Connor loves to play with this apple (and put it in his mouth of course) while in the Bumbo.

Cousin Kayleigh hanging out with Connor in the bumbo chair.

Kevin with Kayleigh - isn't she just so sweet??

Me & Calvin and Kayleigh & Connor watching TV.

Well, we took our very first road trip with Connor. We went down to Charleston, SC to visit Kevin's sister Krissy and her husband Wes for the weekend. It could not have gone better! Connor was great on the car ride there and back (about a four hour drive). We did have to stop to feed him once on the way there and once on the way back, but he happily got back into his car seat and on we went. We had a great time visiting with Krissy and Wes and also with Kevin's cousin Karen and her family - Brian (husband), Kayleigh (their 4 year old daughter) and Calvin (their 2 year old son). They are so adorable - as you can see from the pictures!

Thanks to Krissy and Wes for inviting us and to Karen and Brian for having us over for a cookout. We had a great time and can't wait to see all of you again soon!

Other than our road trip, not much else going on here. We're just enjoying watching Connor grow. It is so exciting to see him develop! The other night we heard him on the baby monitor in the middle of the night and Kevin went to check on him & he was trying his best to roll from his back to his tummy and was trying to grab onto the bumper of the crib to help him roll over. We're not ready for that quite yet! He sleeps in a sleep positioner which is supposed to help keep him from rolling over, but this little guy uses his feet to scoot himself further up in the crib towards the uppermost corner - and out of that positioner! He can roll from his tummy to his back pretty easily (when he wants to) but not yet from his back to his tummy.

He has also really taken to holding his toys or if you lay him on his tummy, he now reaches out with his hands to grab something in front of him. He holds on to everything now - your shirt, hair, ear - whatever he can find. We went to AC Moore yesterday to pick up some stuff and he was in the Baby Bjorn - facing outwards and when I went to pay you use those little pens at the credit card machine to enter your PIN number and he grabbed the pen! That caused me to enter too many numbers for the PIN and we had to try again. He's so much fun!!

He is also babbling away. I think he likes to hear the sound of his own voice! He just goes ahhhhhh ahhhhhh ahhhhhh ahhhhhh A WHOLE LOT now. He wasn't much of a coo-er so we are surprised he is doing all this noise making. :)

The therapist said that from about 4 to 8 months it is like something new happens every week and I think she is right. We'll get some more pics and videos up soon to show any other new developments he has made. Hope everyone has a great week!

Slow Down! You are growing way too fast . . .

2009-05-25T19:42:00.010-04:00

Connor and Chloe

Enjoying a spring afternoon on the back porch

Yet another new toy for me to play with

Mmmmmmm . . . Rice Cereal!

Mommy feeding me rice cereal

Me & Mommy swinging - one of our favorite things to do!

Farmer in the dell, the Farmer in the dell . . .

Mommy's little pets - you can see three in this pic

The Lone Deer - she always comes first & then the others follow

Sleeping Beauty - in his own room!

Really guys? Not another picture!

I love to stand, so this is becoming a favorite play thing

Baby Connor's First Rice Cereal Feeding

It has been an exciting month of changes for Connor! We had our 4 month well visit and Connor is in the 75 percentile for height, weight and head circumference. He is now 25 and a half inches long and weighs 15 pounds 9 ounces. He is a our little chub-a-lub. The doctor said he was doing fabulous and seemed to be a very easy going baby. We'd have to agree, of course!

She also gave the green light on trying rice cereal. We've attached a video of his first feeding. Hope you guys enjoy it. We also changed his feeding from 6 fize ounce bottle feedings to 5 six ounce bottle feedings. Either way he gets 30 ounces a day, but now he gets it in five feedings instead of six. We also moved him to his crib! He's been sleeping in his own room now for about a week and he's doing great! His only problem is that he is a back scooter! We get up in the morning to find he has pushed himself into the uppermost corner of the crib! He's a little rascal this one. One other change is that we now no longer wake him at 5am for a feeding. We let him sleep. New sleeping times are from about 10pm to 7am! What a good sleeper!!

We also saw the therapist last week and she also had good news. His torticollis is pretty much non-existant now and we're just working on strengthing his neck with some new excercises. She'll continue to meet with us every so often just to make sure it doesn't come back when he starts new phases like crawling, walking, etc.

Other than that, we're just hanging in here, keeping things pretty low key. We went & saw AJ's new place this weekend. For those of you who don't know, AJ is Aunt Jennifer. She just closed on her place in Durham. CONGRATS JENN!! This coming weekend we're taking our first road trip to Charleston to see Aunt Krissy and Uncle Wes and we're also going to visit Kevin's cousin Karen and her family while we are there. Pictures of that coming soon!

Also in good news - we got Mommy her very own camera! Now we don't have to wait so long to post things!

Hope everyone is doing well. More to come after our adventure next weekend!!

Connor's Got a New Toy!

2009-05-10T16:34:00.009-04:00

Connor's New Toy Video

Connor Playing in Playland

Connor has a new toy! Aunt Kathy loaned us her bouncy station and Connor just loves it! The physical therapist recommended this as his next big toy so that it will help his neck stay strong and upright. He is doing really well with therapy, by the way. We don't go back for another three weeks, but she did add some new exercises to the routine so that we can get him up and going. This video clip shows that happening! He looks like he is running in this thing. So funny. Kevin was in tears he was laughing so hard!

Mommy also got Connor some hand puppets as he seems to really like those. He especially loves his Cookie Monster one. He just grins so big when I use that to entertain him. He is at a really fun stage now. Each stage is so amazing. Hard to believe he is already almost four months old. We'll let ya'll know how the check up goes on Tuesday. He sure is chunking up!!

Connor is also really starting to hold on to his toys and bring them to his mouth! I don't know how this stuff happens overnight, but it seems like it does. Friday night he also rolled over completely - from his back to his tummy four times! So much is happening all at once! My little boy is growing up . . .

Today is also my first Mother's day and while it is bittersweet day for me, I have to say again that I love being a Mom. There is nothing like it. I think a Mother's love is like no other. It is very powerful and magical. To know that I was once loved like this really brings it home to me. I miss my Mom and wish she was here today to see Connor, but I know she is watching over us from up above. I wish all of you that are mothers a Happy Mother's Day.

Hope everyone has a good week!

Time Flies When You Are Having Fun

2009-05-04T16:18:00.006-04:00

Have I mentioned lately how much Kevin & I love being parents?? It's just so exciting to see all of Connor's new developments and just know that we made this handsome little tyke! He's really growing so fast. Martha even said to us about a week ago, "I don't know what happened over the weekend, but it's like he's grown!" His little legs are just as fat and adorable as they can be! And he is getting to be so long. We go for his 4 month check up and the dreaded shots next Tuesday (on his birthday) and I can't wait to see how much he's grown height and weight wise in the past two months.

Connor is also starting to realize that he can do things with his hands. He was at Martha's last week sometime and she said he grabbed a hold of the napkin she was holding and was just looking at it like "I did that??". He's starting to touch his toys more and even trying to hold the bottle a little. He's also starting to roll just a little bit. He's rolled several times already, purely by accident, but now he's laying on his side, almost turning over.

We bought a Baby Einstein movie over the weekend and played it for him Sunday night. We figured if we laid him on his tummy and positioned him to see the TV, he might stay for more than his usual 10-15 minutes. He stayed the entire half hour! And he was just a smilin' and talkin' to the TV. So funny to watch. I included a video for you guys to see of it. Enjoy!

This week Mommy has a physical and then we have physical therapy on Thursday. Daddy is heading to Nashville for the weekend to see Uncle Tim (his twin) graduate from Vanderbuilt with his MBA. Congratulations, Uncle Tim! We are all so very proud of you!

We also worked it out with Martha to keep Connor full time for all of July & August. He will officially start school on Monday August 24th. I better stock up in Kleenex. Just the thought of it makes me want to cry! It's good for him & I know he'll benefit from it, but still - it's my little boy! :(

Hope everyone has a good week. Hopefully I will have some pictures for you soon.

Three Month Pictures

2009-04-20T09:07:00.005-04:00

Oh no!

Family Picture

What you talkin' 'bout Willis?

Chillin'

This is as close to smiling as we got.

Just being his sweet 'ole self.

How many chins do I have??

It's been a busy week for us, as is becoming customary! We went to see the physical therapist on Thursday. Again, she said that Connor is making excellent progress & to keep up the good work. Since he hasn't changed that much (that heavy 'ole head is still bobbing around), we won't go back for three weeks. Hopefully by then he will be supporting his head really well and she will be adding new excercises to our routine.

Friday we went to Chapel Hill to see Kevin's parents, grandparents and sisters. It was Connor's first meeting with his great grandparents (Kevin's maternal grandparents) and his second visit with Aunt Krissy. We are planning a trip to Charleston in late May to see Krissy and Wes and also Kevin's cousin Karen and her family. Should be lots of fun!

Saturday we took Connor to get his 3 month pictures taken. I have attached a few for you guys to see. He was not in much of a smiling mood, but with all those flashes going on, I don't think I would be either! It was lots of fun though and we plan to do it again at 6 months, 9 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months. After that it will just be a yearly thing.

Yesterday we had Grandma's 81st birthday party (Monica's maternal grandmother). It was a surprise party and most everyone made it. Grandma was VERY surprised! The look on her face was priceless! I think everyone had a good time and the food was great.

Not much going on this week. Connor and I may meet up with Karen & Chase Thursday for lunch. Other than that, we are going to rest and recover from our busy busy weekend! Hope everyone has a good week!

Growing up fast . . .

2009-04-08T22:23:00.010-04:00

This is my hat to wear to the pool. Looks like I am going on a safari!

Yes, yes. I see what you are saying Mr. Star.

Hi Mom! Hi Dad!

Awwwww! Sweet Sweet Baby Boy!

My 'laughing' face.

Aunt Rebekah, Aunt Angela, Mommy & me on Easter.

Mug Shot. Enough said.

Another day in tummy time land.

Up close and personal. I think I might have Mom's eyes!

Oh, geez!!!

Cousin Jordan, Dad, Mom and me on Easter.

Cousin Caleb, Dad, Mom and me on Easter.

Dad, Mom and me in my ears.

Why do they do this to me???

Basking in the sun . . .

Connor had his first PT appointment a couple weeks ago and the therapist said that he has a very mild case of torticollis. His neck is not in bad shape at all - just that gravity is taking effect and pulling his head down (all those brains weigh alot!). She gave us several excercises to try at home. Mom spends about 45 minutes working with Connor about 4-5 times a day with Dad filling in some on the weekends. Martha also works with him on the days she has him. When we went for our second appointment, the therapist could already see an improvement and said we are doing all the right things. We have our next appointment this Thursday to see how things are still going. Martha is able to see some improvement as well. When Connor does tummy time, he is starting to lift his head up and look around at some toys we bought to visually stimulate him. He is growing so fast!

We haven't done a whole lot out of the ordinary lately. We met Karen and little Chase for lunch last week and got our picture taken with the Easter bunny. Saturday we went to Shelby's birthday party (who turned 2 this year) and Sunday we went to Uncle John's and Aunt Sarah's for Easter. Lots of good times. Maw-Maw is turning 81 in a couple weeks, so we are having a surprise birthday party for her this weekend, so it will be a busy week for us. Aunt Krissy and Connor's great grandparents are also coming into town this weekend, so we'll be seeing them as well.

Today we are going for professional photos of Connor since he is 3 months old. If they have a soft copy, I will get them and post them on here. If not, look for your copy via mail.

Hope everyone has a good week. More to come soon!

Little C, Little C, Little C

2009-03-22T10:54:00.009-04:00

Chillin in my little swing.

Reading my book while chillin in the boppy.

This is how I fall asleep at night (since I have to sit up for 20 mins after eating).

Love my little sailboat onesie! It matches my room!

I do look alot like Dad, but have a ton of Mom's features too!

Heh Heh Heh

Buddy, Connor & Chloe - our 3 kids.

Getting my tummy time in the boppy.

Practicing sitting up - won't be too long now!

Taking a nap in my crib.

Our Happy Boy!

Daddy Loves Me!

Look at the little bitty foot!

On the front porch with Daddy.

And now it is Mommy's turn. I do love to swing!

I wear my sunglasses outside . . .

One day I am going to get big and help Daddy with the gardening.

Practicing trying to stand. The more I practice, the better I will be!

Mommy does love me bunches!

I love the outdoors!

It's a little bright outside for me, so gotta wear my shades.

Is this not the cutest sweater! Thanks Aunt Krissy for making me cute!

Can you tell what my favorite page of the book is? I love black and white.

I'm such the cutie!

FINALLY! A Family Photograph. Chloe, Mom, Dad, Connor & Buddy on Saint Paddy's Day.

Seems like more pictures of Connor are being requested all the time, so here are some new ones. Be patient with me though . . . It is a lot to be a working Mom and still make time to do all the household things I used to do and give Dad some attention, too. I'd say on average, you'll see new pictures about every two weeks. Also, remember that if you leave a post as anonymous, please leave your name so we know who submitted the post.

Things are going well with Little C. He had his 2 month check up on the 12th and he was up to 11 lbs 4 oz and was 23 and a half inches long. He is in the 40th percentile for weight and 70th percentile for height and head size. His pediatrician said he will grow up to be tall and brainy!!They also told us that Connor has torticollis - which basically just means that the muscles in his neck are a little tight and need to be worked out. He likes to look to the right and not alot to the left, so his head is flattening a little in the back. Good thing Dad wanted to ask about this! Since we caught it early, he most likely will not have to wear a helmet to correct the problem. We start physical therapy this Thursday (3/26) and will probably go once a week. She'll show us some exercises to do with his head and better ways to carry him to help him turn his head. We do give him some tummy time every day, which also helps, and have started putting his books to his left side and making him look at them from that angle. He seems to be doing better with his neck already.

Connor is LOVING staying with Aunt Martha. She is so good to him! She works with his neck also while he is there and shows him black and white books that he just loves. Little Noah loves Connor too. He calls him "Baby Con" and has more recently taken to calling him sweet guy. Martha says he made it up all by his self! He loves to kiss little Connor on the head all day long! When it is nice out, they take walks around the pond across from Martha's house. It is truly a blessing that things worked out the way they did and that Martha is willing and able to keep Connor. Kevin and I both feel really good about the decision and are glad that Connor will be six or seven months old by the time he starts daycare.

Dad is also enjoying his time with Connor on M, W and F mornings (the days he goes to Martha). Since Mommy has to be at work by 7:30, she feeds & changes Connor about 5:15 and puts him back to bed until 8am or so when Dad gets him up. Connor is definitely a morning person! He smiles and coos so much first thing in the morning! Mornings is Dad's favorite time with Connor. Mommy's favorite time is bath time. Probably because I am so crazy about having a clean child. Just ask Aunt Rebekah. When she used to bring the kids over, first thing I would want to do is give the boys a bath. Not even that they were dirty - I think I just like the smell of baby shampoo and lotion!

We've got a good routine going with him and he seems to like it. We especially love our weekend time when we spend time together as a family. When Mom is home on Tuesdays and Thursdays - we're usually busy with appointments and doing grocery shopping - things like that. So, Saturday and Sunday we like to go out to Target and get baby supplies that we need or go for walks with Connor. We took him out yesterday in the backyard and took some pictures of him. He really loves the outdoors! More to come soon!!

We love you our little boy . . .

2009-03-02T13:49:00.000-05:00

This is where I do my "business". Can't you tell by the look on my face?

What you talking about Daddy??

My outfit says Kiss Me, I'm Irish.

I like to chill in my boppy sometimes.

And sometimes not . . .

Awww! What is the pitiful face for??

And finally, off to sleep I go.

Aren't I just the cutuest? Uncle Tim picked this out for me.

This pacy has my name on it cause it is the one I take to the YMCA.

Don't let this fool you. Mommy gets me to sleep, THEN hands me off to Daddy!

Lots going on in the O'Brien household these days! Little Connor has been getting out lots lately. He had his first babysitting experience with Aunt Rebekah a couple weeks ago. We only called once to check on him and Mommy didn't even cry! He also had his second babysitting experience (sort of). Mommy got clearance from the doctor to go ahead and start working out again, so we went to the YMCA and left Connor in the nursery. He did really well with it.

We also took our first trip to see Grandpa & Grandma O'Brien at their house and Uncle John and Aunt Sarah were there too. Mommy's friend Karen has a little boy, Chase, so we meet up with them about once a week now. It's nice for the two Mommies to get out of the house! Connor has also been to the dentist and doctor with Mommy for her appointments and another trip to see his pediatrician. They have changed his formula once again. Hopefully this will be the last one we switch to. Connor is up to 10 lbs and 2.5 ounces these days and very healthy.

Next week though, we start a new routine. Mommy called the daycare to check on where we were on the waiting list. Suprisingly, they told us July when in the fall they had said April would not be a problem. We had to figure out a solution and fast! Mommy & Daddy did some thinking and decided it would be best for little Connor to go to Aunt Martha's house (who also has a little boy - Noah) and stay with her on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays. Mommy will stay home with Connor on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is the plan until July. The daycare has called again to say now it might be August but we told them it has to be July or else. Stay tuned for details on that as Mommy and Daddy really don't want to change daycares.

Little C has also had an increase in his bottles, so he is sleeping a little longer at nights. The other night he slept through the entire night! He went down at 10pm and didn't get up til 7am! Since then he gets up about 5:30am and then goes back down til 9am.

Some other big news - the cord has finally come out! Mommy thinks little Connor just didn't want to let go of her. :) After 7 weeks though, it finally fell off yesterday - March 1st. So, he had his first bath last night and really enjoyed it. He loves being in the water.

More to come soon (as long as Mommy doesn't get too bombarded with work next week!!).

One Month Old and Counting . . .

2009-02-13T10:15:00.000-05:00

My sailboat themed room.

More storage in my room.

Toy Wall. Our fave? The Jack in the Box.

My Bed (although I sleep in Mom and Dad's room right now).

See, they even put my name on the wall!

Geez, does it ever end? Bath time lasts forever!

Me on my one month birthday.

My Chicken Little Feet (compliments of Aunt Sue & Uncle Harry)!

And they even match my outfit!

Mom likes a total package.

Rub a dub dub, got myself out of the tub.

Me sleeping a couple weeks ago.

My cousin Noah.

Aunt Angela & Uncle Brian, Aunt Rebekah (holding Connor) & Uncle Ryan and Mom & Dad.

Caleb is the only one who guessed my birth date right, so he gets to hold me first.

Caleb, Shelby and Jordan

Connor has been very busy lately, so sorry for the delay on updates. He went to his cousin Jordan's 10th birthday party a couple weeks ago - his very first outing (besides to the doctor's office) and saw some new faces. He doesn't mind being passed around the room at all - he sleeps through everything!

The next week, Connor went to the grocery store with Mom and was so good! However, this week when we went he had a case of Mommyitis. Nothing was going to keep him quiet except for Momma holding him in one arm and pulling the grocery cart behind her in the other. Interesting shopping when you are doing it with one hand.

Yesterday Connor turned one month old and we went for our one month doctor's appointment today. He is now up to 9 lbs 6 oz and he grew an inch over the past month. The doctor was very happy with his growth and says to keep on doing what we're doing. His acid reflux is also getting better, so that is good. We hope that he will grow out of it soon.

He's definitely starting to stay more focused and smile more when he is awake. He's been smiling in his sleep since we brought him home, but it is nice to see him smile with those pretty blue eyes open. He's still sleeping great at night and the doctor said today not to wake him anymore in the night - let him tell us when he is hungry. We were waking him about every 5 hours to eat, so who knows how long he might go without being woken up! During the day he will still eat about every 3 - 4 hours like he is doing now.

I've included some pictures of his room and him getting his every other day sponge bath. The cord has not come out yet, so we have yet to take our first real bath. He definitely is going to have an innie belly button though. The doctor said it should come out before his next visit (one month from today). He also had one shot today and did pretty well with it.

We'll have more stories to share soon. Connor is going for his first baby sitting experience with Aunt Rebekah next weekend (the 21st) while Mom and Dad are going out for Dad's birthday. Who wants to guess how many times we'll be calling to check on him?? :)

Firsts . . .

2009-01-21T11:04:00.000-05:00

It's been a week of firsts for all of us. Little C got his first (and second) car rides - which he seems to like. We had our first snow, which was beautiful. The little man is setting a good pattern for himself. He sleeps really well during the night (4 hour stretches) and does well during the day until mid afternoon. Then he gets a little fussy, sleeping off and on until about 9pm. Then he settles down for the night. The doctor says everything is going well for the little man and that he is very healthy. We are very blessed with this child.

He has arrived!!

2009-01-18T18:09:00.000-05:00

Little Connor Michael finally arrived on Monday, January 12, 2009 weighing in at 7 lbs 12 oz and measuring 21.5 inches long after only 6 hours in labor! Our first week has been quite an adjustment, but we are all doing well. Little Connor is a good baby and doesn't fuss a whole lot. Mom and Dad are still getting used to the frequent feedings in the middle of the night, but he is so worth it. We just love his platinum blond hair. Such a cutie!! We'll have more updates soon, but here are some pictures in the meantime . . .

First Picture

2008-11-13T11:43:00.000-05:00

Here is my first picture taken back on October 10th, 2008. Mommy & Daddy were very excited to be able to see me for the first time! More pictures to come around January 16th, 2009 . . . and perhaps even sooner than that!