winter walking.

 



We've taken Kate for a couple walks out in the MN winter.  She falls asleep pretty quick when we're all bundled up.  It was +1F this morning so she'll probably stay inside today...  The view of our yard from the living room window after a recent snow was gorgeous.

tummy time.

with a beautiful new blanket. To be honest it only lasted a few seconds, but the proud parents managed to snap a photo.

in her sleep.

amongst her many expressions, kj smiles in her sleep.  she does!  i am so looking forward to the day she begins to smile intentionally during her waking hours.  meanwhile, i love thinking on this little diddy i came across recently...

Baby's Smile, by Helen Good Brenneman

The doctors and the nurses state

My baby's smile's a fake.

It's not a smile at all, they say--

It's just the tummy ache.

But Grandma's explanation

Is much nicer, far, than this--

An angel stooped from heaven

And gave my babe a kiss.

she also squeaks like a little mousey in her sleep.  what do you think that's all about?

41.5 + 4 wks.

Others assure us that she has grown so much since the Day1 photo!

Here's a more recent one -- must perfect the eskimo kiss if you live in chilly MN! ;)

And another one -- it was the biggest (& saddest) game of her life yet... =P

cuddling.

One of my most favorite things to do these days is cuddle with my little one.  To rest my chin on my babe's soft head while she sleeps on my chest is lovely, and though time doesn't altogether stop, iy seems less important..  And I rest knowing, that for just a little while, we are safe and warm and content together.  Just one of many ways I can love her right now, and I treasure it.  Here's to wishing that you have a peaceful, comfortable moment with your loved one today.

welcome kate.

Katherine Joy was entrusted to our care on Dec. 21, 6:45PM.  7lb. even, 21 inches.  The last weeks have been filled with seemingly endless moments of excitement and fear, peace and restlessness, frustration and joy.  We’ve had support from family friends from day 1, from all angles.  The holiday season was filled with sweet times with family, celebrating Kate’s and our Savior’s birth.  A steady stream of thoughtful, encouraging, and much appreciated gifts from friends in far-away places has padded our spirits, and Kate’s wardrobe.  “A solstice baby, full of hope,” came a note from an encouraging colleague.  You’re a miracle, Kate.  Impeccable timing, God.  A move to a new city, bringing us closer to family.  A dream job for Dad that allows Mom to stay home for awhile.  A beautiful new home in the perfect location.  The beginning of labor just before induction would have been necessary.  Just the right size to make it out.  Just before 2+ ft. of snow would have kept us in the hospital for days.  All the grandparents (first grandchild on either side) waiting in the lobby.  Uncles and aunts there within a few hours & days.  I remember thinking during the few hospital hours, as I looked at all her little parts (a real little person, can you believe she gets to come home with us!) laying with Mom...  What sights will these eyes see?  What places will these feet visit?  What sounds will these ears hear?  What words will this mouth speak?  Whose lives will these hands touch?  Only God knows.  And we wouldn’t want it any other way.  Oh, what Joy!  Welcome to the world, Kate.  We’re so glad you’re here.