Braden learned how to turn around in his exersaucer today!

Dear Braden,

Mommy is so excited to be feeling better! I was thinking tonight how blessed my life is with you, and how different! I used to spend hours getting ready and mama and daddy (Grandma and Grandpa) say I wouldn't go to the mailbox without makeup on. Today, I went all around town in flip flops, stretchy pants and my wet hair pulled back in a ponytail (at least that meant I had a shower:)). I traded in my Clinique face for a face lovingly covered in slobbery kisses. And believe me, I wear that slobber with pride! A shopping trip used to mean saving up money to spend at places like The Limited or Express, today I got together my coupons to hit a sale at Carter's. I now pore over the racks for clothes sized by ages in months and count on my fingers how old you'll be next season. Now instead of rushing around to get done in time for "Friends" to come on, I am rushing to get done before it's time to eat again...But, like today-I can just whip out a bottle at Target and feed you at a table for two:) So my darling boy, you have turned my world upside down and inside out. And all I have to say is, "Thank you..."

Love-Mommy

Dear Braden,
What a busy month! Mommy is so excited to be done with school for the summer. I just know we are going to have so much fun...right after I am done with this horrible stomach bug. You and daddy are quarantined upstairs and am by myself...I know you are just a few feet away but I miss you! I love holding you and just looking at your sweet little face. You have been rolling over for almost a month now-it is so exciting!
This past week you got to see almost all of your grandparents. Grandad O came to watch you Monday and Tuesday. Then Grandma and Grandpa G took over for the rest of the week. I know they enjoyed loving on you. You bring joy to so many people.
I can't believe you are almost 5 months old. It seems like in a blink I went from finding out I was pregnant to looking into your big blue eyes. I am so thankful for you my little angel. I think I am going to sneak upstairs and just take a little peek at you. I love you.
-Mommy

Dear Braden,

Mommy is so busy lovin on you it is hard to find time to blog! That and the new flat screen daddy bought...So I am so excited that you are trying to roll over. A little sad too that you are getting so big. I love that you know who I am now though-seeing you light up when I am near you makes my world brighter. Just a couple more weeks and then we will get to be together the whole summer! Today you are in cute cowboy outfit which made me want to buy baby cowboy boots but apparently you have to pay big bucks for baby boots! This Sunday is Mother's Day and really the only gift I need is you, sweet boy. But Shhh-don't tell daddy-I am hoping for jewelry!

Love,

Mommy

Let me count the ways...

Dear Braden,

Today I would like to list a few of the things I love about you:

1. How you remind me that miracles DO happen.

2. How you can look like different people I love with just a slight facial expression.

3. How you smile right before you go to sleep.

4. How you get so excited when you get the light on your activity mat to come on.

5. How it feels to be your mama.

6. How you grab my finger when you are near me.

7. How sometimes I am the only one who can calm you down.

8. How sweet you smell after a bath.

9. How you make little things (like holding your head up) suddenly seem extraordinary.

10. And finally-you make me a better person.

I love you sweet boy-

-mommy

Dear Braden,

What a fun weekend we had with Grandma and Grandpa! It is so fun to watch you interact with them. You are starting to explore the world around you. You 'pet' your doggie that hangs on your carseat and it was so cute. You also grabbed mommy's hair, but not too tight. Note to self-make hair appointment to get a cut:). One if your favorite things to do it put your hands in your mouth-so cute! Last night as we were getting ready for bed you were wide awake and being so fun-too bad it was bedtime! I could stay awake all the time and just watch you. I am sad that Spring Break is coming to an end, but soon it will be summer. One reason mommy wanted to be a teacher was to have these breaks when I had children. I love you dear heart.

Love,

Mommy

Easter pics

Anniversary date

Dear Braden,

Here we are on the couch again and you are wide awake....such a night owl! You were up at this time in the womb too so I guess you did give me fair warning! Daddy and I went out for our fourth anniversary this year-it is hard to believe this time last year I was not even pregnant yet! Daddy and I had a great time, but we did hurry back so we could go and get you:) I am so glad that me and your daddy are so happy together. We are a blessed little bunch. I hope you never forget how much you are loved. I love you sweet boy...now let's think about going to bed-oh alright maybe a few more minutes...

Love, Mommy

4/5/10

Dear Braden,

You are beside me on the couch sleeping and I couldn't feel more love than I do at this moment. Who knew that a little 12 pound person could steal my heart? Bringing you home from the hospital on my 30th birthday was the best present ever! This weekend we had your very first Easter. You looked so sweet in your little blue and white outfit grandma got you....until you pooped on it during lunch. It's okay though, it happens to the best of us. The Easter bunny was good to you and brought you a bunny I made with Aunt La at Build a Bear, and a couple of other goodies. Next year, I will give you some goodies to munch on like daddy got in his...I can't believe you are getting close to three months old. You are wearing 0-3 month clothes, you can hold your head up and you are beginning to smile when you see me or daddy. I love to hold you and will as long as I possibly can. I love you sweet boy, and always will.

Love,

Mommy