The Holmes Family

Miles is a superhero!

2011-03-28T13:29:00.003-05:00

We had a fun time at Owens' and Virginia's birthday party at the Little Gym on Saturday. Everyone was given a personalized superhero costume and a mask. Miles' favorite part was parachute play.

Happy Birthday Jacob!

2011-03-28T13:00:00.003-05:00

This weekend we celebrated Jacob's first birthday at River City Gymnastics. Very exciting! His friends played in the foam pit, on the trampoline, climbed the rope wall, swung on the rings, and walked on the balance beam. We enjoyed the day and are happy to have a 1,2, and 3 year old. Whew!

Thank you Bousson Photography!

2010-12-16T07:32:00.007-06:00

Cassie did a great job on our Christmas pictures this year. Here a few. Visit her at: http://boussonphotography.blogspot.com/

It wouldn't be Christmas without the Holmes' family Elf Yourself

2010-11-29T15:34:00.002-06:00

We love to dance, what can I say?

Shutterfly is really on it this year

2010-11-29T15:29:00.002-06:00

Shutterfly is giving 50 free Christmas cards to bloggers. I know a lot of you have blogs so it sounds like a great deal. Go here to check it out. Pass it on to your followers!

We're getting our Christmas pictures done this year by Cassie Bousson with Bousson Photography. Go here to check her out. As soon as we have our CD of images we'll post them. Is it December yet?

Halloween 2010/Happy Birthday Rodrick

2010-11-15T15:05:00.008-06:00

We celebrated Rodrick's birthday with dinner with friends on Saturday (10/30) night and on Halloween, had a cook-out with the Thompsons and later trick-or-treated with them. Rodrick got a gift certificate for Rangemaster for a gun class (safety first!), a One Year Bible, and Tony Dungy's autobiography "Quiet Strength" on CD. Miles was an elephant, Carter was a friendly tiger, and Jacob was a bat. This was Miles' first year really understanding the concept and he loved it.

Me and Paige (with her reflective vest on; safety first!)

Miles; Hall, and Van Thompson

Taking a break...

The pre-trick or treat meal

Carter the tiger and Jacob the bat

2010-11-01T12:13:00.002-05:00

So proud! Jacob began crawling on Sunday, October 31--Rodrick's birthday! 7 months. Three months earlier than Miles and Carter. WOW.

Pumpkins!

2010-10-13T12:02:00.003-05:00

We went to Fall Harvest Festival at the Agricenter on Saturday. Our intention was to find a pumpkin patch but they are not having one this year. We stumbled upon the festival and had a great time. Miles and Carter each picked out a pumpkin to paint and we ate Italian Ice, a funnel cake, and walked around the petting zoo/(farm?) pen. Rodrick has the animal pictures and once he sends me those, I'll post them.

And, here's Jacob, watching and waiting to be a big boy.

2010-10-08T11:43:00.003-05:00

Rodrick took the boys to Gibson's Thursday morning and they had a great time!

Happy 30th Birthday Tanya!

2010-08-12T10:41:00.007-05:00

On Saturday night, we gathered for dinner at Bangkok Alley (East location) to mourn the loss of my 20's. Thanks to Tonya and Dottie of Bangkok for making everything very easy and hosting a great 30th.

Here I am with Kim--we took the bar together and worked at Lawrence & Russell together.

Brooks and Tara

Fanta and Imad

Melody and me

Here we are at the end of the evening--totally looks like a huge blowout, but we don't know the people behind us.

They gave the birthday girl complimentary fried grasshoppers.

Jillian's reaction to the grasshoppers.

Becca's reaction to the grasshoppers.

I totally have an excuse....

2010-08-12T10:32:00.004-05:00

Hello? I have three babies, 3 and under. I'm usually really good at blogging, but when your laptop dies at home, what are you gonna do?

What a fast summer! Miles starts pre-school Wednesday and we are gearing up for a great year in the Mudpuppy classroom at Miss Lee's. Tonight is New Parent Orientation, next week Tuesday is Miles' visit at school and Wednesday is first day!

Here are family pictures, by Marci Lambert. Very happy with her work and please use her for your photo needs.

Let the madness begin!

2010-03-31T12:15:00.003-05:00

Jacob and I came home Monday afternoon and are adjusting well. Carter is eyeing his bottle but is doing well adapting to his new role as big brother. He mostly wants to eat Jacob's toes. That's partially my fault--I told the boys that we don't kiss Jacob's face or hands, but we can kiss his toes. Somehow that became we can eat his feet.

Miles has been with my mom since Sunday in Little Rock and he's having a great time there. He went to dinner last night with my mom, sister, and cousins. My cousin Crystal has four boys so he was in playtime heaven. They are on their way back now and we can't wait to see him. We miss him! This the longest we've been without him.

Go here to see Jacob's hospital pictures.

http://www.picaboopics.com/

User name: ho6254

password: jacob

Welcome Baby Jacob!

2010-03-28T15:09:00.003-05:00

On Friday, we welcomed Jacob Mitchell Holmes to the world. He was 7 lbs even and 19 inches long. He is healthy, eating well, and learning to sleep around two very loud children. We go home on Monday! He's a keeper. Miles and Carter are excited to have a little brother and wore their "Awesome Big Brother" stickers on Friday. Thank you for your prayers and we will post more pictures and the birth story next week.

Made It!

2010-03-23T09:58:00.002-05:00

Well I made it to 39 weeks! Never been here before...my last doc appt was yesterday and there is no dilation; Jacob is high and is likely bigger than Miles and Carter (both 6 lbs. 1 oz).

I was resting in the living room yesterday and told Miles to go potty with Daddy because Mommy's tummy was hurting. He asked "your tummy hurts because of Jacob?" I said it hurts a little but it's not Jacob's fault, just a little sore. He then told me "we have to get Jacob out of there." Later, he got his stethscope, climbed into my chair and told me he was about to listen to Jacob's heart and get him out. He is totally into bringing this baby home. Carter, clearly, has no clue what's going on.

38 weeks and counting

2010-03-18T16:01:00.003-05:00

So, I've never made it past 38.5 weeks, but I feel like this baby will make it to next Friday. He is very high and my cervix is long and closed, according to Dr. Healy. Honestly, he can stay in as long as he needs. I'm in no hurry--I'm almost ready, but we still have several projects left. The handyman is coming this weekend to finish up some around the house work while we have breakfast, head down to the Gap Outlet for summer clothes for the boys, and have lunch. Hopefully they'll nap on the way back and the house will be done when we return.

We can check off a project that we started on last week--Carter is finally on a better sleep schedule, is not taking a bottle AT ALL, and is falling asleep on his own. We put him down around 8:30 after a bath and book and let him go on his own. At first, we were going in in 5-7 minute intervals, and it took almost an hour to help him get to sleep. Now, we put him down and within 5 minutes, he's knocked out. He may wake up looking for his pacifier once in the night, but he is good to go until 6:30. And, he doesn't need a bottle when he gets up. YES!

Tonight's mission: finish packing my bag, pack the boys' bags' (never know when labor may start and if they'll need to spend the night with a friend) and wash Jacob's clothes to pack his bag.

I'll be 39 weeks on Tuesday and my last day at work is Wednesday. My plan is to take the boys to school as normal on Friday, be at the hospital at 10:00 a.m. (Section is scheduled for noon) and have my mom pick them up from school to meet Jacob that afternoon.

It's getting close to time!!

Last minute fun stuff before next Friday!

2010-03-17T14:38:00.005-05:00

So, the official C-Section day for baby Jacob is Friday, March 26th. We are very excited to bring home baby #3. Until then we are trying to squeeze tons of fun activities for the boys.

We went to the Children's Museum a couple of weeks back which was great for Miles, not so much for Carter since he's a little young for the activities. We went on a horse carriage ride downtown which we hadn't ever done.

I took Miles to the Dr. Seuss Birthday party at Davis Kidd two Saturdays ago and we met the Cat in the Hat, but didn't want to go up to him for a picture.

While everyone is pumped during storytime...

My sweet boy opted to play with the animals

And, last Saturday we had breakfast with Dora the Explorer at Bronte Cafe.

Carter's First Day!

2010-02-02T13:53:00.002-06:00

Carter had a great day in his big boy classroom. He completely rejected his bottles at school so we're down to one when he wakes up, one on the way home and one at night. He is playing and participating in circle time and has even done artwork. What a big boy!

Happy First Birthday Carter!

2010-01-26T14:11:00.003-06:00

We had a great weekend and celebrated Carter's first birthday! Our party was Sunday at Kid Station. The theme was Thomas and we loved our cake from Robyn. She has done great cakes for us and they are worth the drive from Little Rock to get them. I had to go to Conway for my alumni meeting so I picked it up on my way back on Saturday. Everyone had a great time!

Carter's Walking and First Birthday plans

2010-01-22T12:13:00.003-06:00

Carter started walking steadily last week after a week or so of small steps. He is keeping up much better with Miles and looks like he will break out into a run any minute.

Sunday, January 24th, our littlest Holmes turns 1. What a year. His first birthday party will be at Kid Station on Erin Drive and he's inviting a couple of friends from his class, family friends, and family. He is celebrating with a train theme and is very excited. Miles and I have been singing Happy Birthday to him for a couple of days now to get him ready. He has a new haircut and is ready to go. I will post pictures after this weekend--we have haircut photos, walking photos, and will have birthday photos.

Rodrick and I are going to a Grizzlies game tonight sans children. Tomorrow morning I'm heading to Hendrix (VERY early) for an alumni meeting. Busy weekend. Picking up the cake from Robin and headed back tomorrow afternoon.

Carter's first Christmas!

2010-01-04T10:06:00.007-06:00

Carter woke up at 5:30 Christmas morning, took a bottle and went back to sleep until 9:30 or so. He was very excited to open presents!

Christmas!

2010-01-04T09:56:00.002-06:00

This year we opened presents at Rodrick's parents' home in Jackson. We had a great time and the boys got back home to find what Santa brought to our house in Memphis as well. I should've taken a picture of the train set before Miles started playing with it. It looked just like the picture. Now, not so much. Here are images from Christmas morning.

He's looking for cookies that Santa ate the night before.

with his new Thomas and Percy

on his Spiderman bike...

finding his cookie pillow (which he has slept with every night since)

2009-12-23T11:10:00.002-06:00

In the tradition of putting together gifts (remember last year's kitchen that took us 4 nights?), we started putting together Miles' train set and table on Monday night. We covered it up with blankets and hope that Miles will not go back to the den/playroom before we head out tomorrow for Mississippi. He'll get it when we get back on Saturday. Hopefully it will look like this when it's completed.

Cookie decorating at home

2009-12-22T09:10:00.005-06:00

Miles loves his cookies! We got home from a looooong day of shopping on Saturday and baked and decorated sugar cookies. Not too bad for our first time making them (rolling out dough, using the cutters, etc.) Miles was very proud (Mommy was too) and we will be making more for Santa on Christmas Eve. We will also be leaving apple slices for the reindeer and probably egg nog for his long trip back to the Pole. We've told him that we won't be at our house for Christmas but he could drop stuff off at Gran and Paw Paw's in Jackson, MS. And, whatever's too big to fit under the tree there, he could take to our house in Memphis.

Christmas cookie decorating at LEAD

2009-12-21T09:18:00.004-06:00

Last Wednesday, I took sugar cookies to Miles' classroom with icing and sprinkles for each child to decorate and eat. We listened to a Naval Horn Quartet/Quintet (not sure if there were 4 or 5) play Christmas musict the hopsital for patients and the LEAD children first and returned to the room for COOKIES.

Miles munching down!

I love this picture of his friend Jonathan!

Johanna spreading her icing...

Morgan is intense in her decorating
Miles is showing everyone how to spread icing.

Outtakes from the Christmas Card and Decorating the Tree

2009-12-21T09:08:00.002-06:00

We actually put up the tree on the 13th, but I didn't post the pictures. We tried to get frick and frack together for the Christmas card and that was fun.

Anniversary and this weekend!

2009-12-07T12:10:00.002-06:00

Rodrick and I celebrated our 4th anniversary on Thanksgiving Day this year. Who knew how full our house would be four years later? Our den will soon succumb to them and become the playroom. The painter/handyman is coming over tomorrow night to re-paint the kitchen and fix up a couple of things that need to be done. We plan on getting the "playroom" ready before Christmas because Miles is getting a trainset and table.

This weekend is Rodrick's firm's Christmas Party in St. Louis. Carter and Miles will be staying with Denicia at our house Friday and Saturday morning. Carter has two night experiences: either he goes to sleep at 8:30 or 9:00 and wakes up around 2:30 and will not go back unless he has a bottle (which is totally new because we were making it without a night feeding for a while) or he stays up until 11:30 and sleeps until 6:30 or 7:00. Miles is solid on sleeping from 8:00 ish to 8:00 in the morning. We'll head back down to Memphis when we wake up on Saturday.

Carter's ears

2009-12-07T12:06:00.003-06:00

Carter had a string of ear infections for 6 months that actually felt like one big long ear infection. I took him in Nov. 19 for tubes and Dr. Naidu (same surgeon as Miles) put tubes in his ears. We expected some drainage but unfortunately have had continuous drainage and another ear infection. His follow-up is this Wednesday and we're on drops and omnicef. NOTE: We discovered a horrible allergy to Amoxcillin that manifested as an all over the body rash, so no penicillin for Carter. Please pray for an end to the infections and that the tubes will do their job.

Thanksgiving luncheon at LEAD

2009-12-07T11:38:00.004-06:00

The annual T'giving luncheon was a success last month. Rodrick and I split the time between Miles and Carter quite well. First, we visited with Miles during circle time and sang songs and took pictures. When it was time to eat, we brought Carter down to Miles' room. Neither one ate, likely because they were excited to see us, so we headed down to Carter's room to finish his lunch.

Surprise!

2009-11-24T10:49:00.002-06:00

Coming to a crib near you: March 2010.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-11T16:20:00.002-06:00

The boys trick or treated at school October 30 and had a great time. Carter was Superman and Miles was a tiger. Miles had a great growl and picked up a TON of candy. Le Bonheur hosts candy stations all over the hospital and they had tons of fun.

Look at these two!

2009-10-26T08:59:00.004-05:00

Rodrick took this shot one Sunday evening when I was getting the winter clothes out and putting summer up. They are CRAZY sometimes.

Here's the best invention since sliced bread...

Carter's crawling!

2009-10-12T09:05:00.002-05:00

So, Carter started crawling on September 30. Miles put his Grizzlies flag across the room and said, "Carter, come get it." And, Carter went and got it. They are great together and I am often caught in the crossfire of the wrestling matches.

Carter is also cruising quite well and is standing for 2-3 seconds so he should be walking by Thanksgiving, I think. They are both doing better at night but Miles doesn't fall asleep until he has pulled every book off the shelf, every shirt out of his drawer and has run around his room a dozen times. Carter is sleeping longer, but still waking momentarily between 3:00 am and 4:00. am.

I finally bought a side by side stroller which I put together on Sunday, anticipating an after nap walk. Miles has a cough and runny nose, so I figured that he would rather not be pushed around in the wind. I love the two-kid shopping cart at 240 Target. It saved my life on Saturday. Miles insists on walking but if he's sitting next to Carter in the double cart, he's fine. It's better than the car cart at Kroger, because both of them can sit in it and still leave me the entire cart.

Baby Dedication Sunday

2009-09-14T10:28:00.005-05:00

Carter and Miles were dedicated Sunday morning at 9:00 service at church. My mom, Bruce, and Taylor drove in to attend service. We selected pictures and verses to be displayed during the dedication. They are below.

Carter was great during the whole service. Miles usually attends Fellowship Kids but since the dedication was at the end of service, he was in the sanctuary. The first hour we kept him entertained and occupied. I then had to take him outside to play on the steps or to walk around. When we actually got to the dedication portion around 10:20, he was very tired, and it showed. We made it through it and went to Holiday Deli and Ham for lunch with everyone. It was pretty rainy, so we didn't take many pictures. But, here they are.

Miles James

Age 2

1 Samuel 1: 27-28
For this boy I prayed, and the LORD has given me my petition which I asked of Him.
28". So I have also dedicated him to the LORD; as long as he lives he is dedicated to the LORD "

Carter Mason

Jeremiah 29:11-13

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

Project No More Pacifier

2009-09-14T10:24:00.001-05:00

Day 5
Sunday lunch time

It took Miles a very long time to get to bed Sunday after lunch, but he did and I went grocery shopping while he, Carter, and Rodrick slept. Dr. Geiger was absolutely right about not saying anything when you lead him back to bed. Soon, Miles was turning around and going himself on Saturday night. He also didn't wake up until 7:40 on Sunday morning. A GREAT improvement over the previous days. He is agitated but definitely getting better.

Miles posing for the camera

2009-09-11T10:00:00.003-05:00

Carter at dinner time and playing

2009-09-11T09:59:00.000-05:00

Project: No More Pacifiers! Day Two

2009-09-11T09:35:00.003-05:00

So Wednesday night (DAY ONE), I couldn't find Miles' pacifier and thought that it would be a good time to go cold turkey at night. Dr. Blen, our dentist said that it would soon disrupt his mouth formation and told Miles that he had to give the pacifier to the baby monkeys and giraffes at the zoo. I told him the same thing and he was prepped, but of course, not ready. This past weekend, I noticed that he was digging it out of his bag and sticking it in his mouth, even when he wasn't sleepy. I knew that it had to go.

Wednesday night PM
We got ready for bed slightly earlier than normal. Carter was already asleep and I devoted all my attention to getting him comfortable in his bed and explaining that the pacifier was at the zoo for the baby monkeys and giraffes. He asked, "long neck g'raf?". YES! We read stories and into bed he went--for a few minutes. I told him that if he slept without his pacifier, he would get a prize in the morning. Then he cried out, Mommy, I need my cc (that's what we call it). Then he walked into the kitchen where I was washing bottles and asked for it again. I walked him back and tucked him in. This ended about 15 minutes later when he fell asleep. Success! I sent a text message out that Miles had no pacifier and was a big boy.

Thursday morning 3:15 am. Miles wakes up and asks for his pacifier. I ignore it until he gets up and walks out crying. I lead him back in, saying get in the bed. This went on for another hour. Mostly, he would cry, walk out--I would walk him back. (At 4:30, Carter woke up from the noise and Rodrick patted him down until I made a bottle at 5:00 That's my limit. If it's before 5:00 am, Carter doesn't really need it). I remembered that on SuperNanny, the nanny suggested silence when they get out of bed. If you talk when they get out, they'll think they have company. So I stopped saying anything and just walked him back. Pretty soon, all I had to do was point and he would cry/walk back to bed. Around 5:50, he calmed down and by 6:10 he was asleep.

When he woke up for school I gave him his prize (a puppet) and he was not happy. He was very sleepy and angry about not having his cc. I gave him a cup of yogurt and he happily ate it on the way to school. Once there, we told EVERYONE about his pacifier free night and how big of a boy he was. He was very proud of his puppet.

Thursday after school: I learned that Miss Lisa gave him his pacifier at naptime, not knowing that we really were kicking it. AUGGGGGHHHH! We got home and I went to my hair appointment while Rodrick stayed with them.

Thursday pm (DAY TWO): Rodrick said it took 10 minutes longer for him to settle down and sleep. When I got home around 8:15, he was sleeping soundly.

Friday 1:27 am: I heard Miles coughing pretty violently and I worried that he couldn't catch his breath. I got a cup of water for him and his cough medicine. He didn't wake up but kept coughing. Then he wheezed and I knew he needed his albuterol inhaler. He woke up crying and I tried to give him his meds but he was too upset. We did the walk back to bed routine and he finally took his medicine, drank water, and stayed in bed, screaming. At 3:15, he settled down and I drifted to sleep as well. I would hear an occasional whimper, but that went away. There is nothing worse than hearing and ignoring, "Mommy? Come here. Mommy? Lay down."

I hear that the first two or three days is the hardest. I've got to get up tomorrow around 5:30 am to head to Conway for an Alumni meeting, so hopefully he will rest well tonight.

Update

2009-08-20T14:06:00.004-05:00

Hey there,

Everything's going great around here. Carter is very close to 7 months old, is sitting up well, and is playing with his brother when he can. Miles had his first dentist appointment to Dr. B (Dr. Blen) and did a great job. He is officially in his big boy bed and sleeps well through the night most nights. Carter is trying to sneak in a bottle between 1:00 am and 2:30 am, but he is going to be weaned off of that, pending a weight check next week. He loves eating and watching Miles. He hasn't figured out that he can't walk but he wants to badly.

Last week when we were in LR, we were having cheese dip before lunch at Buffalo Grill (yum!) and Miles looked around the table, said "WAIT A MINUTE, MOMMY", grabbed my sister's hand and mine, looked down and said "pay". I said, "You're right Miles! Thank you for reminding us." He soaks in so much. He "prays" by closing his eyes, mumbling, and looking up saying "Amen." At night, he can do some of "Now I Lay me Down to Sleep"--he's working at that.

Here they are having a bath as well as playing on a hotel bed in Fayetteville last week. They really are hilarious to watch. Miles has all of his teeth, I think he was eating and it looks like he doesn't have any on the left.

One more of the big chair

2009-07-01T16:06:00.001-05:00

Yesterday Miles told me to go to sleep on the floor on my couch cushion. Then he immediately jumped on me to wake up. That boy.

Waking up

2009-07-01T16:02:00.002-05:00

Carter is waking up here. We obviously were bothering him.

I offered rice cereal, oatmeal to him three weeks ago and he didn't like it. He also is not a fan of applesauce or sweet potatoes. We'll keep trying.

Happy 2nd Birthday, Miles Holmes!

2009-06-25T07:58:00.006-05:00

Miles turned 2 on June 11, and we celebrated at Pump it Up, which is a great place to have a party, even for 2 year olds. He invited his class and friends and everyone had a great time. They climbed, bounced, jumped, had pizza, cake, and hopefully took a great nap when they got home.

And, here is my sweet baby, Carter. My mom is holding him.

A trip to the playground

2009-04-16T18:42:00.006-05:00

I picked Miles up from school and we headed to the park next to Richland Elementary School, down the street from our house. Miles had a great time, even though the other kids were older. We did meet two year old twins while there. Carter enjoyed the stroll around the playground.

Watch Ellen

2009-04-16T09:27:00.002-05:00

I love the Ellen show. My friends say that I'm obsessed with it. I watch it everyday, while I'm on maternity leave. When I go back, I'll record it. She is fabulous and has a lot of fun but she always gives viewers and audience members great prizes. If you get a chance, watch it--she has hooked so many people up that are struggling in the economy. Anyway, I sent in Miles and Carter's Easter picture so we'll see if she shows it on air. :)

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T23:26:00.005-05:00

Here are Carter and Miles after church. Carter hung on long enough to let Miles get this picture. He was furious, though. It was a little cool outside so we didn't get many pictures. Here are a couple of the misses.

Then, the rain came. So, instead of hunting for eggs and taking more pictures, they spent some of the day hanging out watching an Elmo video.

Daddy recorded Miles finding eggs that we hid around the living room. I really have to figure out how to upload video. I'll get it on the site by Tuesday.

GO HOGS! and Purdue

2009-03-18T18:23:00.006-05:00

Today was Spirit Day at Miles' school and he was supposed to wear his favorite team's colors or clothes. I haven't bought Miles a Razorback outfit since football season and it's too small now so I panicked. But, he wore his Purdue T-shirt and took his Razorback football (which plays part of the fight song), hog nose, UA board book, and our car flag. I think he was prepared. His class read his board book during circle time and they danced to the fight song when I dropped him off this morning. And, my sweet boy called the Hogs. I'm trying to figure out how to upload video off of my phone. As soon as I do, the world will see my little Hog fan.

PS, he's scarfing down pizza at the same time.

GO HOGS!

First Bath and Booster for Miles

2009-03-12T16:59:00.006-05:00

Carter enjoyed a first bath and my assistant, Miles, did a very good job of telling me Carter was in the "wa-wa".

On Monday, Miles decided that he no longer wants to sit in a high chair (though it's still in the kitchen) I bought him a booster at Target on Tuesday and he sat in his big boy booster for the first time on Tuesday at dinner. He loved it. Until Wednesday...when he wanted to sit in his highchair again.

Carter watched in amusement.

Is Blue's Clues even still on?

2009-03-05T12:47:00.004-06:00

The answer is a big fat YES. DVR was invented for the sole purpose of catching each episode of Blue's Clues, which by the way, airs at 6:00 am, 6:30 am and 8:30 on Noggin. Miles watches an episode while we catch a few more minutes of sleep in the morning. I gave him a notebook to write his clues in and he loves singing the songs. I have a preference for Steve on the show over Joe, the new guy, since I grew up watching Steve. Two things: I was in high school/college when it came on but my sister is 13 years younger than I so technically Taylor grew up watching it. Second, the show hasn't had a new season in years, so Joe isn't necessarily the new guy. He replaced Steve when Steve went away to college and the show went downhill.

Enough about that. Great show. I ordered DVD's and used it on a recent trip to Nashville--we limit the DVD's to car trips. We have MO-MO (Elmo) toys and gadgets around the house but Miles isn't a fan of the videos. We heart Blue. So, Laura, you are not alone in your tv dilemma.

Carter's One Month Check-up

2009-03-03T10:28:00.003-06:00

Carter had his one month check-up on Thursday and is 7 lbs 14.5 ozs and 20 1/4 in long. He has grown a lot in his first month and is doing great. He got a shot and after a small cry he was fine. He is eating well and is getting used to his schedule. Occasionally he will remain awake after a feeding at night but usually he will go back to sleep. He is awake during the day after every feeding for about an hour or hour and 1/2. I'll post first bath pictures a little later today.

Miles before school

2009-02-23T14:04:00.003-06:00

We got up this morning to get ready for school--Fanta came to pick Miles up--and I thought he looked really cute in his sweater so I took some pictures. Funny thing--when you ask him to take a picture, he squats and says cheese. Not sure why. The sweater is part of the huge box of hand me downs from my cousin, Crystal. She has four boys: 9,4 and 2 and the next boy is due in late March/April. We have plenty of clothes, thanks to her.

The squat

and smile!

Brushing his teeth...

Cheese!

Carter is 4 weeks old and is going for his one month shots on Thursday. He is eating about every three hours, and eats around midnight, between 3:30-4:00 in the morning and again at 7:30. He doesn't want to go back to sleep after the 4:00 feeding, so I'm adjusting to that. It takes him about 2 hours to get back to sleep after that one. I've tried the swing, bouncy seat, walking, rocking, singing--it takes a while.

Happy Valentine's Day (belated)

2009-02-17T15:48:00.005-06:00

We headed to Nashville on Friday for V-Day with the boys. Rodrick had a meeting and I needed to get out of the house, even if it was to a hotel. We had a great time and celebrated Valentine's Day with room service, cupcakes, and chocolate. Miles and Carter each got a bear, Rodrick got candy and a CD and I got a great Coach wallet from Miles and Carter and a red Coach bag from Rodrick. Pretty great! We didn't go out much, so here are the boys with their gifts in the room.

2.5 weeks

2009-02-12T11:33:00.003-06:00

Here are the lastest pictures of Carter. He will be 3 weeks on Saturday. He's alert more during the day and slept last night for 3 hours at a time. The birth announcements will be sent very soon, just trying to get a good shot. Our photo session was cut short due to hiccups. The last photo is Miles at 2 weeks for comparison.

Carter's newborn session

2009-02-04T13:56:00.001-06:00

Lisa has done a fabulous job once again. Please check out Carter's newborn photos at www.kiralisa.com. He's gaining weight and is doing well.

Carter's eyes are open!

2009-01-26T18:31:00.003-06:00

Tonight is our last night at the hospital and tomorrow the adventure at home begins. All of his tests came back fine and he is a sweet boy. Rodrick and Miles came up to eat dinner with me at the hospital and Carter slept through it all, of course. He spit up quite a bit yesterday but is eating well today. We'll check in later on this week.

2009-01-25T14:57:00.003-06:00

Introducing Carter Mason Holmes

2009-01-25T13:21:00.004-06:00

Well here he is! Carter Mason was born at 10:27 a.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2009. He is 6 lbs, 1 oz. and 18 and 3/4 inches long. Those are the EXACT same measurements as Miles Holmes. And, both are O+. He is doing great and very excited to be here. Miles met Carter on Saturday and took pictures today, Sunday. Miles held Carter and is very gentle, using "nice hands" and blowing kisses.

I woke up Saturday morning around 2:15, having mild contractions. They got worse, then went away, then came back, intensified. I charted them until 5:30 am and woke Rodrick up to let him know that I needed to probably head to the hospital, but I wanted to wait until 6:00 am or later to give Miles a chance to sleep. He got dressed and I started cleaning the house, much like with Miles' birth. We called Fanta and Imad to let them know that we would be dropping Miles off, and got ready to head out, but couldn't find keys to my truck, which had the toddler seat for Miles and our bags, packed and ready to go for weeks. So, we were locked out from the camcorder, clothes for the hospital, Miles' big brother gift, etc. Fanta picked up Miles in her toddler seat and took him to her house. His bag was actually in his room, packed and ready. The locksmith came out, couldn't open the truck because "only BMW can provide a key to get in"--lock can't be picked. That's not true because I've been locked out a few times and have had it opened without issue. Anyway, he wasn't understanding that I was in labor, though I told him several times and he was standing in front of me, so I finally asked, are you done trying? Great, we're going to go now and we appreciate your attempt. We got to the hospital at 8:00 am and the contractions got further apart and were not changing my cervix! My pain was getting more severe and Dr. Stern (who did the C-Section last time) said there was no need to be in pain without my cervix dilating, so he gave the okay for the C-section. So, at 10:27 am, little Carter arrived, healthy and beautiful.

GREAT BIG THANKS TO Imad and Fanta for being so available and meeting a different locksmith at our house that couldn't open the truck either and for taking Miles for the day!!!

HUGE THANKS to Jillian for picking up toiletries, pajamas, and Miles' big boy gift from Target. And, the flowers and balloons!

38 weeks

2009-01-21T20:51:00.002-06:00

I've never made it this far before, but here I am. No change in my cervix and Dr. Healy looked like she felt pretty bad for me at my appointment today. I've only slept 6 hours in the last 55 or so and I'm heading to work tomorrow for a couple of hours to clear out my desk, send emails and set my out of office voice mail. If I start having consistent contractions, Dr. Healy said that she would be fine with the Section, so I'm hoping that I get sleep tonight or the contractions become consistent and stronger. I've been contracting so long that I don't know what it's like to have a contraction free day. Wish us luck.

Early morning trip to Baptist

2009-01-21T09:24:00.003-06:00

I started contracting (again!) Monday around 11:30 pm and after two hours of 4-5 minutes apart, went to Labor and Delivery at Baptist. Miles did great and I feel bad for waking him up--I really wanted to drive myself up there to avoid getting him out of bed. They monitored me and we decided to take a sleeping pill to help me rest, even though Dr. Healy did offer to do the C-Section if the contractions were uncomfortable. The pill didn't work at all and now I have had 5-6 hours in the last 52 hours. I am EXHAUSTED. The contractions are bearable, at times not so much, but I'm still here. I have an appt today with Dr. Healy and she'll evaluate me. As of yesterday I am 1-2 cm and 60% effaced. We'll see how the visit goes.

37 weeks--full term--and still marching on

2009-01-15T10:02:00.005-06:00

My doc appt went well yesterday. Still 1 cm, 50 % effaced. My C-Section is scheduled for January 28 at 10:30 am. We are going to drop Miles off at LEAD that morning and get to the hospital at 8:30. We'll have a good dinner the night before and no eating for me after midnight. It looks like I may actually make it to then. I'm a little surprised and definitely happy.

My last day at work is next Friday the 23rd. We still have a couple more things to do in the nursery. I'm switching Miles over to the side seat from the middle to make room for the additional car seat. He's been sleeping all night very well in his crib and he is loving his new big boy backpack that he takes to school instead of a baby diaper bag. It's a little too big for him, so if anyone has suggestions on where to get one that's appropriate for toddlers and not tipping him backward, please speak up. My next and last appointment is January 21 at 12:45.

36 weeks

2009-01-09T09:28:00.002-06:00

I went to the doctor on Wednesday and no change from last week. Next appt is January 14. I really don't think I'll make it to then, but I didn't think I would make it to today. My official prediction is the weekend of the 17th because it's a holiday weekend, and it would be cool to watch inauguration from the hospital/home instead of missing it at work, no other reason. The room is coming along and I'll get pictures posted. We are getting the last things delivered to the house and are ready! I am full term next Thursday, which I've never been before, so we're pretty happy that it's close.

What do I know? He'll probably arrive Monday. :)

Still here...

2009-01-04T14:20:00.004-06:00

I have been having contractions off and on that go away and aren't getting stronger but are there, nonetheless.

Rodrick and I went out to dinner on New Year's Eve and while we were gone, had planned to have our babysitter put Miles in his big boy bed because we moved his crib into Carter's room. He actually went to sleep and when we got home around 9:00 he was knocked out. We were so shocked to see him in it that we kept looking in on him. He then woke up. Our bad. He would not get back in the bed for two days so we cancelled that and decided just to get another crib. He is sleeping well and we think that we'll try again in 6 months or so.

In other news, we took Miles to Dr. Stecker Saturday morning to check his ears (he's had a cough and drainage). They are, in her words, "gorgeous!" Can't believe it. We have a post op appointment on Tuesday with the the ear surgeon that put his tubes in. I think that I'm probably 2-3 cm and we're looking at 10 days or less. What do I know? :) We are putting the finishing touches on Carter's room and we'll be done by tonight.

Almost 35 weeks

2008-12-29T15:33:00.009-06:00

Christmas was great--here are pictures of Miles in his new kitchen...getting more on the blog this evening.

I started contracting a little and recognized them as real contractions, not in front, but in back and I decided to give Dr. Healy a call. The nurse told me to come on in for monitoring. I was checked again, still 1cm and 50% effaced, and no sign of labor. She said for right now, I'm fine, but I could have him obviously at any time. So, that's that. My bag is packed. Miles' bag is half packed and we have a plan ready. I am really hoping that he can stay in until 37 weeks! next appt: January 7.

Update!

2008-12-23T12:22:00.017-06:00

I went to the OB yesterday and am dilated 1 cm and 50% effaced. I am 34 weeks currently and I am hoping that Mr. Carter stays in until 37 weeks. I had Miles at 36.5, so I know that an early delivery is possible. I am finished with shopping (but haven't gotten food for Christmas dinner) and we still have to put together Carter's bassinet and Miles' kitchen and Diego table and chairs set. Here's Miles hanging his "My First Christmas" ornament from 2007. Can't believe he was a little baby this time last year.

Miles 2008

Miles 2007

Putting together the dresser

2008-12-23T11:57:00.013-06:00

Jillian came over Saturday morning and did a GREAT job putting together the dresser/changer combo. She expected to do some fun art project but I sort of needed her more on this. Cherelle arrived in time to observe the nearly finished product and to put together a drawer. As you can see, it required intense concentration and Miles attempted to help with his drill. Thanks a bunch!!

Here she is probably an hour into it.

You can see a little bit of Miles' head in the right bottom corner

Cherelle shows up to observe and build a drawer.

Way to go JILLIAN!

My Review of Graco Christon Dresser/Changer Combo - White

2008-12-22T08:20:00.001-06:00

Originally submitted at Toys R Us

Coordinates beautifully with the matching Graco Christon 4-drawer chest. Complete the nursery by pairing with a Graco crib: the Blakely, Victoria, Ashleigh or Lauren. Unit features hidden European door hinges, European metal drawer glides as well as a locking mechanism to prevent the drawers from p...

Get past the assembly and it's fine

By Miles' mom from Memphis, Tennessee on 12/22/2008

Pros: Sturdy, Cute, Matches other pieces well

Cons: Difficult To Assemble

Best Uses: Small Children, Toddlers

Describe Yourself: Working Parent

We are using this in our toddler's room and giving his new brother a bigger dresser, so I wish the drawers would have been a bit more deep. I also wish it had a back panel on top of the dresser but you get what you pay for. All the pieces were there; the front corner is damaged, but I wasn't about to wait for a re-shipment and it's not that noticeable. We used a drill and screwdriver and had no problems--didn't need wood glue, etc. Great job to the mom that put this together with a 5 and 3 year old. I had a friend come over on Saturday morning and with two very short breaks, it took us 3.5 hours.

(legalese)

AutoZone baby shower

2008-12-19T16:21:00.006-06:00

Cherelle and Jillian organized my work baby shower and did a great job. I got tons of gifts and am excited to put them all in Carter's room. They are coming over Saturday morning to help get his room together now that it is painted. I'll post pictures of that, but for now here is the shower:

Present table

Cake (isn't it cute!)

Cake and punch table

I had a great time and really appreciate everything. I'll get pictures of everything and post those later.

Time Flies

2008-12-15T08:12:00.012-06:00

I cannot believe that we only have 44 days left until the debut of Carter Mason Holmes. I fully expect him to be here before that date; co-workers are filling up the January calendar/ office pool pretty quickly. There's really no prize; the winner will likely get the title of best guesser.

I had my camera this morning at Miles' school and snapped a couple of pictures. Here's Miss Tammy with Miles playing on the carpet with the shape sorter.
Here's Miles with his buddy Mason. Mason's mom just had a baby girl, Sagen, and I'm sure Mason is giving Miles tips on being a big brother.

Rodrick's firm had their holiday party Friday night and here we are right before we left. Miles didn't go, but of course we took a picture together.

I wore 3.5-4 inch heels for the first time in two months, so it appears that I'm close to Rodrick's height, but obviously I'm not. So, here's what I look like 8 months pregnant, attempting to attend a social function. Thanks A Pea in the Pod for helping me look presentable.

Thanksgiving Lunch at LEAD

2008-11-20T12:42:00.005-06:00

Today Miles' school celebrated Thanksgiving with a Parents' lunch. It was very festive in Classroom #3. The tables were decorated and Miles Holmes had a pilgrim costume on prior to my arrival. He took it off so I didn't get a picture with him in it, but I'm told he was a cutie. So, Daddy and I got there, fixed our plates and ate turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes, rolls and cake during lunchtime. When we left, he walked to his cot like a big boy and got ready for his afternoon nap. Here is our big boy eating cake, right before naptime.

Hello Carter Holmes! (sort of)

2008-11-18T15:26:00.006-06:00

Here are images from our ultrasound on November 18. The last one is of Miles at 29 weeks. Aren't my boys cuties!?!?!?

Miles Holmes, 29 weeks

Washington, D.C.

2008-10-22T09:15:00.018-05:00

We are back from our trip to Washington, D.C. We got there last Thursday morning, Oct. 16, and returned Tuesday morning bright and early! We did a lot of sightseeing and strolling. We love the Metro and how easy it is to get around. The fall is great there and the weather was pretty good. Each morning we woke up, had a good breakfast and by the time we finished eating, the weather warmed up for sightseeing.

Landing in D.C. Thursday morning...

Friday morning, we took the Metro to breakfast at Old Ebbitt Grill, across the street from the Dept. of the Treasury and down the street from the White House. They have TERRIFIC French toast and scrambled eggs and here he is after eating...very happy! From there we visited the White House.

Miles had a great time running around Lafayette Park. There were a ton of other children there from daycares on an outing or playing with nannies. He was occupied with chasing HUGE squirrels with leaves. They were seriously the biggest I've ever seen.

Friday afternoon we visited Union Station's shops and ate at Johnny Rockets. Tons of people were leaving on trains to NYC and we later found out that a lot of people commute to Phila, NYC, and surrounding areas on the weekends. After a nap, we went to Filene's Basement (a huge bargain shopping store with great deals, sort of like TJ Maxx but better brands) and did some shopping and strolling. That evening we had caramel sundaes from room service. Saturday morning, we got up and headed to breakfast at Union Station at the Station Grill. We met two women that work at the US Election Commission and had just made an appearance on C-SPAN. They were very nice and talked to us about working and living in DC. We then went to the grounds of the US Capitol for pictures. The tour was up to 3 hours long, so we skipped it and went to the Washington Monument instead.

We did more than eat while in D.C., but we had great chicken dogs at a stand across the street from the Washington Monument.

We went back to the hotel for Miles and Rodrick to take naps and then we got up and got ready to go to my cousin's 10 year anniversary of the charter school she founded in 1998. www.ewstokes.org. I introduced her at the program and here are my guys, looking very sharp!

That evening, we had dinner at B.Smith's restaurant in Union Station. Miles had a great time with his cousins and met his Aunt Mimi for the first time. She is my grandmother's sister, so this is actually his great-great aunt.

Sunday afternoon we went to Georgetown's shops to stroll and relax. We ate at ESPNZone that night. We did some more shopping and strolling in Virginia on Monday and here are pictures of Miles catching a quick nap on the Metro to VA and with a ball at Rodrick's friend's house near Leesburg, VA.

After eating at Cheesecake Factory, we headed back to get ready for an early flight back home.
Miles was awake at 4:30 am and ready to get on the plane. He was packed and helping me get out of the door on time.

We had a great time and are glad to be back in a calmer environment. :)

Miles at school

2008-10-14T07:47:00.004-05:00

Today when I dropped Miles off I got a couple of pictures in his classroom. He is at LeBonheur's LEAD program and is in classroom #3.

Here he is pushing a toy. Here he is with his buddy, Mason. They're getting books for the carpet.

Latest doc appointment

2008-10-13T13:58:00.003-05:00

So I went to the doc last week. I am right on target and my next appointment is the gestational diabetes test. I can't believe it's already time for that. I will be 24 weeks on Wednesday and then before you know it, I'll be in my third trimester. We are getting the 3-D ultrasound in November and I'll post those pictures when we get them.

Belated Congratulations to Christine for a healthy baby boy! Dean Matthew Nevitt was born September 8 at 10:03am. He weighed 7 pounds even and was 19.5 inches long.

Flying with babies...and how 'bout them Hogs?!?!?

2008-10-13T10:17:00.004-05:00

We haven't flown since the new rule came down in July about baggage allowance. I learned that NWA charges $15 for the first bag you check in. How can anyone travel with a baby with two bags? Thankfully, they allow you to carry-on one piece, one personal item, AND a diaper bag, AND the stroller can be checked at the gate.

We have flown with Miles a few times and he is very good, as long as he is entertained and it's near a nap. I timed this for early Thursday and right after lunch on Sunday. He'll likely sleep the whole flight. It's only a 1.5 hour flight, non-stop.

The Hogs (3-3) were victorious last weekend with a win over 20th ranked Auburn on Saturday. We garnered 416 total offensive yards to Auburn's 193.

Updates!

2008-10-13T10:07:00.003-05:00

So, you obviously noticed that our blog name has changed since milesholmes is no longer accessible. Miles finally realizes that I have a baby in my belly now. While eating lunch on Friday, TLC Baby Story came on and he heard a baby crying. He turned toward the living room and said "baby?" Then he reached over to my shirt, lifted it up and said "baby?" Cutest thing ever! Then in the bathtub, I asked him, "Where's mama's baby?" and he stood up to touch my stomach. Finally, last night I was on the couch and said, "Miles, where's the baby?", and then he slapped my stomach, so I think he gets it and is now tired of being asked. Too cute.

Miles is on the downswing of another ear infection. Thankfully, he's been on antibiotics since Thursday, so he's feeling better. We also went to the ER for wheezing and he has an Albuterol inhaler/mask that we use when his breathing becomes difficult. We are headed to Washington, D.C. on Thursday to attend my cousin's charter school 10th anniversary. We'll be back on Sunday and will take tons of pictures. I haven't been to DC in the fall, only summer and winter, but I hear that it's really pretty.

Changes!

2008-10-02T08:50:00.007-05:00

We are changing the blog address in about a week! I will be sending out a mass email so if you want to know the new address, please email me at tanyacholmes@yahoo.com. I will change the address and notify you. Once it's changed, you probably won't be able to access milesholmes.blogspot.com, so I won't be able to tell you if you don't email me...

Miles went to Alison yesterday for his first hair trim. No clippers were used and he looks exactly much like he did, except less hair. I'll post better pictures of the finished product, but here are the pictures from the salon. I did save clippings which are currently being housed in a ziploc baggie. He was a very good boy and I HAVE TO GET RID OF THE PACIFIER!!

It's a Boy!

2008-09-15T10:23:00.002-05:00

It's boy #2 for us! We have not made a final decision on a name, however. The baby's doing well and is right on target for weight and length. He should appear on January 28, 2009 via a scheduled C-Section. We're excited to see him.

Miles jumped out of his crib on Monday night, landed on his feet, but scared himself and me, of course. We promptly bought a toddler bed, but Amber suggested that we just turn the crib around so that the higher side prevents him from jumping out. The lower side is currently against the wall. This WORKED! He had trouble getting to sleep Saturday night, but I think it's not a permanent thing.

This weekend we're headed to Fayetteville for AL at AR while Miles stays with my mom for the day. This past weekend's game at UT-Austin was postponed until September 27 due the hurricane. I'll take more pictures this weekend and post them very soon!

WOOOOO PIG SOOIE!

2008-09-04T07:39:00.009-05:00

Miles had a great time at his first Razorback game on Saturday, August 30, 2008. We played (and barely beat) Western Illinois 28-24 in Fayetteville. We drove up Saturday morning from LR and he slept most of the way. Fayetteville is a great town and has changed a lot, even from last season when we went up there for games. Miles loved the band, eating a sno-cone, and pizza. We thought he would be worn out from the game--he lasted almost 3 hours from tailgating right before the game to the beginning of the 4th quarter. He wore his Razorback creeper (see below). He was up for a while when we got back to the hotel, but slept in (8:00!) the next morning. We took pictures...Next home game is this weekend in LR (v. Louisiana-Monroe). Next Fayetteville game is September 20 v. Alabama.

On our way to watch the HOGS play! Pig SOOIE!

A picture with Porkchop!
Miles standing with "Il Porcellino," a replica of a bronze boar from Florence, Italy.

An afternoon with Run's House!

2008-08-25T14:33:00.002-05:00

For fans of Run's House:
Miles and I went to a book signing at Davis Kidd last Sunday and had a visit with Rev. Run and his family. He signed our copy of "Take Back Your Family". Justine loved Miles and Miles wanted to hang out with Russ. Here's the picture:

News! (sort of old to most people reading this blog)

2008-08-18T08:17:00.004-05:00

We are expecting Holmes the sequel in January. My official due date is February 4, but this will be a repeat C-Section, so we're scheduling it for the last week of January (if I make it that long). We do not know the gender, but that appointment is September 5. I am finding out and Rodrick wants a surprise, so unless Miles tells you, we're keeping it hush. Miles will be 19 1/2 months when the baby arrives and we are working everyday on loving and being sweet to a baby doll. His world will be turned upside down, I'm sure. This Saturday night will be the first time I have been away from Miles EVER overnight. I will be in Conway on Saturday for a Hendrix alumni board meeting and Saturday night, he'll be with my mom while Rodrick and I getaway for a night. So, I am 16 weeks pregnant and really think it's a boy, but we'll see.

Happy birthday and lots of updates!

2008-06-24T14:48:00.008-05:00

Miles turned one on June 11, 2008 and his first birthday pictures are at
http://kiralisa.com/blog/?cat=3

Scroll to the middle of the page and he's under "Happy Birthday Miles"

His birthday party was at the Fire Museum of Memphis. We had pizza, cake and ice cream and a great time.

Miles playing on the fire truck:

Trying on his firefighter outfit...

Looking at the party room, eyeing his singing Elmo balloon, I'm sure.

He loves pizza!

Miles an Kaia on the fire truck.

Happy birthday Layla!

2008-05-05T13:22:00.007-05:00

Saturday was Layla's birthday, so we headed over to her birthday party and had dinner and DORA cake. Miles actually slept for the first hour or so, but woke up to have cake (no icing) and play with Layla and Malik.

Layla on her new ride-on from Miles.

"This cake stuff is great."

Crumbsnatchers, literally.

Linda visits!

2008-05-05T13:08:00.004-05:00

My cousin, Linda, visited from Washington, D.C. recently. She brought beautiful frames and we'll put one of these pictures in one. We had a good time and are going to visit her in October at the charter school she began in 1998. Check it out here: http://www.ewstokes.org/ They are having an open house for the new building...

Miles visits GG

2008-05-05T13:04:00.004-05:00

GG (my mom's mom) moved to McKinney, Texas in late April and when we flew back from PHX we stopped off and visited her in LR before she left for Texas. I took some pictures that day of them together:
He's looking at my sister and laughing at her which is why he never looks at the camera.

More pictures

2008-05-05T12:54:00.007-05:00

Giving kisses...

Eating breakfast the morning that we left...

Waiting for the hotel shuttle...

Funny face!!

Hanging on the balcony...

In the pool in Phoenix

2008-05-05T12:43:00.009-05:00

Hanging out at the cabana.

"This is kind of like the bathtub Daddy."

Don't let go of me dude!

Chillin in the sun with Mommy.

I'm swimming!!!

Here are the boys!

No hands Mom!

Phoenix pictures

2008-05-05T12:29:00.013-05:00

Miles was great on the 3.5 hour flight to PHX for a conference in early April. We had a smooth ride and he slept the last 45 minutes. We took Miles to the doctor the Monday before we left and his ears were clear. When we got to AZ, however, he was a little cranky, and we figured out that evening that he was developing a cough. The combination of the dry air and flight weren't great. We stayed in with him the first night of the trip, Wednesday, but he felt much better Thursday after a couple of rounds of cough medicine. Turns out, as we suspected, he had another ear infection. Omnicef, again. Here are pictures from the trip.

Another ear infection and Easter 2008

2008-04-03T08:14:00.007-05:00

So we are at the end of another ear infection. We went to the doctor last Monday and got Omnicef this time, so hopefully it'll clear up. We have another appt on Monday to check his ears.

My dad came to town for Miles' first Easter and Miles decided to crawl on Friday, March 21. He's everywhere now, but being contained in the living room. We took pictures in his Easter outfit and they are below. He had an Elmo basket and also went to the crawler room at church for the first time!! We are very excited about his progress. He's such a big boy now.

His appetite is huge and he's eating green beans, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese (favorite!), vanilla pudding, Gerber ravioli, Lean Cuisine cheese ravioli, Healthy Choice Fettucine Alfredo with chicken, bananas, peach chunks, noodles (from low sodium chicken noodle soup), hash browns, pancakes, applesauce, graham crackers, Gerber cheese curls, Gerber crackers, Cheerios, biscuits with jelly, baked potato, carrots. He loves his sippy cup! The other night he had a Corky's chicken leg (no sauce and torn into pieces), green beans and new potatoes for dinner.

We are headed to Phoenix on Wednesday and this will be Miles' first flight. I've gotten tons of advice on landing and takeoff (bottle, pacifier)--now all we have to do is entertain during the flight. I'm sure we'll have lots of photos that I'll post when we return.

Update

2008-03-11T15:02:00.012-05:00

Miles has his first ear infection, which we are treating with antibiotics and are finishing the meds Thursday (our 10th day). He is such a trooper. He has a smal lingering cough at night.

Miles enjoyed his first story time in January, I just haven't updated the blog. Here he is, watching with great interest. :)

We attended the MLK Grizzlies game--Miles' first NBA game--

He was exhausted after half time...

Here he is with Layla--Layla is 10 months old and is showing Miles how to crawl and talk.

He's pulling up now on EVERYTHING! He is doing a great job crawling backward, also.

Lastly, here we are in his first snow--we had actually run out of the car on the way to the house and took a VERY quick picture.
In fact, we got right up and ran to the house.

The Flu!

2008-02-08T10:33:00.000-06:00

Hello all,

Miles ran a fever on Super Bowl Sunday and we watched and monitored it all day long. After Tylenol and Advil all day, his temp went down but spiked at 103. We went to the emergency room and after another dose of Advil, he was tested for the flu, which he has. It's type A so it's supposedly a less severe strain. He is doing better now after being at home all week with us and a nanny, so we hope he's all cleared up. He does still have a runny nose and is coughing, so I'm taking him to Dr. Geiger today for a check up. We'll update soon and get new pictures up. We are almost 8 months old!

We've got teeth!

2008-01-18T10:21:00.001-06:00

So, Miles' teeth peeked right before Christmas and they are in full bloom now. He's loving Gerber turkey/rice dinner and baby peach cobbler for dessert. Dianne Ochiltree (author of "Lullabye, Little One") sent us an autographed nameplate for the inside of his book, inscribed, "To Miles, Sleep tight!" You can go to her website and request one. He has started to fall asleep when I read the book after his bath. I've also put pictures of him in his Hendrix attire--I needed to take a picture to send to the alumni magazine, so I've put a couple on here, not sure which one to send yet. Miles is going to his first Grizzlies game on Monday, which will also be his first concert, since Rodrick's favorite group is the half-time entertainment: Boyz II Men. I'll be sure to post those pictures as well.

We're going to send a thank you note to the author with this picture--I think he's so cute!

Thanksgiving pictures

2008-01-10T07:59:00.000-06:00

I'm finally getting around to uploading the T'giving pictures...as you can see, Miles has certainly gotten bigger since then.

Rodrick giving Miles a bottle in his bumbo.

My Grandmother Ruth hamming it up for the camera while we get dinner ready...

Daddy feeding Miles sweet potatoes and rice cereal.

Grandmother and Miles after a bottle. AndPebbles being nosy.

Grandmother at the table.
I thought this was cute.

Christmas 2007

2008-01-04T15:39:00.000-06:00

We got toys and clothes and more toys and more clothes! We had a great Christmas and enjoyed eating wrapping paper while opening gifts. Miles' baby food list now includes carrots, green peas, sweet potatoes, bananas, applesauce, pears, and peaches. He eats at the table in his big boy dining chair (picture later) and watches Pebbles while he eats. Daddy taught him to blink--which is very funny to watch. He laughs a lot and is sitting up on his own for awhile before toppling over.

After dinner, we play and hang out, and get ready for a bath. He LOVES the bath. After a bath, we cuddle and read "Lull-a-bye, Little One" by Dianne Ochiltree. Then, he gets in the crib and he's out within ten minutes. Usually; sometimes it takes longer, but we normally make it there between 8:00-8:15.

Miles with the Fisher Price Stacker that everyone had when they were little.
Christmas Day

Pat the Bunny tastes better than Brown Bear.

This is bigger than I am!

What a ham!

Ripping up the paper...

Update

2007-12-14T11:10:00.000-06:00

Miles went for his 6 month check up on Tuesday. He is 25 inches long, and weighs 16 1/2 lbs. He is now eating applesauce or peaches for his mid-morning snack and green peas or sweet potatoes in the evening for dinner. Dr. Stecker has suggested adding baby yogurt for variety. He will add carrots tomorrow and yogurt next week.

He is sitting up alone for a few seconds before he starts to lean over and he rolls from tummy to his side. Miles loves his exersaucer and his new toys. He has added a drum, cup stackers and a cell phone to his list of toys. We are getting our books from Shelby County Books from Birth, which I HIGHLY recommend to everyone with children under 5. Register here for a free book each month until your baby is 5 years old. http://www.booksfrombirth.org/

We are gearing up for the holidays! I will post Miles' "First Christmas" Ornament later, but here are pictures I took last night in his "First Christmas" outfit.

Exersaucer!

2007-11-03T18:01:00.001-05:00

Miles spent some time in his Exersaucer today. He is a little too short to reach all of the toys on the activity center, but he plays with the ones he can. He is feeling so much better now after running a slight fever, but we're pretty sure that was from teething.

He's making pretty cool noises, especially early in the morning. He hasn't said mama yet, but he's close. :) He gurgles more and fake cries when he thinks you're not paying attention to him. He is making tons of progress in the crib. When he starts rubbing his eyes, he's ready for a nap. Usually, you can put him down and he'll give a couple of whimpers or yelps and he's off to la la land.

Rice cereal

2007-11-03T17:43:00.000-05:00

This morning we tried rice cereal. Judging from the pictures, it loooks like most ended up on his face or bib, but he did eat some and LOVED it. We'll eat it twice a day for a week and then try oatmeal for a week. THEN, we'll try oatmeal and a couple of veggies for a week. If he tolerates it, then it's off to the races. He's growing up!

Getting ready for Halloween

2007-10-28T18:56:00.001-05:00

On Saturday, the Hogs were victorious, beating Florida International 58-10. Woooo pig!!

Baby Razorback in training...

Today, we went to the neighborhood Fall Festival. Miles dressed as a bunny and enjoyed the stroll. There were tons of kids in their costumes and lots of babies. Miles took a picture with the big kids on a Memphis fire truck. We'll post that later.

Ok, so I've gotten behind

2007-10-22T21:14:00.000-05:00

I've gotten WAAAAY behind on blogging. I've heard you all. Please note that I am back at work and my goal is to blog weekly. This is hard stuff, but I look foward to hearing what's new in your lives, so I can see how a month old post is whack! So, Miles went for his 4 month check-up and shots. He weighed in at 14 lbs 1.5 ozs. What a champ. He is in the 50th percentile, so we're excited. He is holding his head up, when he wants to.

Every morning, Miles and Daddy get up around 7:00 a.m., have a bottle, wash-off, hang out, do secret big boy stuff until time for Daddy to leave around 8:30. Mon-Wed. he goes to Underwood United Methodist Church where he is in "Granny's" room from 9:00 until Mommy gets him at 4:45. On Thursdays and Fridays, Lorena comes over at 8:30 to play and hang out.

He had a little tummy bug and hasn't started rice cereal yet, but as soon as he steadies his head a little more and gets this bug out of his system, we will start it morning and evening. He LOVES his bath and hates to get out. He is sleeping completely through the night--and will SOON move to his crib. He laughs, talks, and watches us move around the room. He is a growing boy and has traveled a lot. We are heading back to Fayetteville for a game and we'll post pictures of him in his Hog attire on campus. Enjoy the pictures...

2007-09-10T12:59:00.000-05:00

September came quickly! I was scheduled to return to work today, but I have accepted a position with AutoZone, Inc. and I start September 24! Miles is growing more and more and is sleeping from 10:30/11:00 to 6:00 in the morning. We are getting weighed tomorrow, and I suspect that he will weigh around 12-13 lbs. He has smiled for awhile, but on August 31, he started laughing out loud while he was eating. He loves his playtime and is lifting his head while on his playmat.

on his bouncer...thanks Jonnie and Ashley! He has wrist rattles on, not bracelets, P.S.
With Daddy--he loves his fingers now. And, he brings his hands together, which is right on schedule.
Pebbles figured out that she is not the center of the world.
Here he is after eating: (very happy). He talks A LOT. I wonder why :)

2007-08-12T16:42:00.000-05:00

So, it's been awhile since we've updated everyone, but Miles is 9 weeks old tomorrow and weighs 10 lbs. 3.5 ozs. He's 22 inches long and eating very well since the surgery. It's like he never had it! He sleeps well at night, about 4 hours at a time, sometimes 5. He's growing up! Here are pictures...

He looks like he worked the night shift here--he loves his sleep positioner--we were actually trying to get some tummy time in, but he pooped out. I caught him giving me a kiss...
He's so sweet!

Miles' surgery

2007-07-29T20:15:00.000-05:00

Last Tuesday evening, Miles had some vomiting and we called the doctor because it was projectile and not merely spitting up. She asked us to come in the next morning if it persisted for a baby "zantac" and to call if he threw up again. Wednesday afternoon we took him in because he had another episode. She sent us over to get an ultrasound to check for any abdominal obstructions, etc. We learned that Miles had pyloric stenosis, which affects about 1 in 200 boys. The pyloris is a muscle between the intestine and stomach that became enlarged and required surgery. We packed a bag at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday afternoon and prepared for surgery on Thursday at Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center, in downtown Memphis.

Miles couldn't eat or drink anything from the time he had the ultrasound (3:30 p.m. Wednesday) until 4-6 hours after surgery on Thursday. Because he was an add-on and not a scheduled surgery, there was no telling when his surgery would take place. That night was a little scary because all we could do was give him a pacifier dipped in a sugar solution to calm him. He's only 8 lbs, 10 ozs--and not eating for a day was a frightening thought. He had an I.V. which kept him hydrated (which I don't recommend parents watching get inserted on their child).

I tried to inform as many people as possible and I'm sorry if I didn't email/call you, but Miles is recovering well and is SUCH A BRAVE BOY...I will post pictures tomorrow.

Thanks for all of your prayers and thoughts! For more information on pyloric stenosis, go to http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/digestive/pyloric_stenosis.html

Miles' One month pictures

2007-07-16T14:44:00.000-05:00

Miles loves his activity gym! He plays on it almost every day. He figured out that hitting the mirror played music!

Here, he found himself in a mirror--
I'm ready for my close-up, Mommy...

Having fun!

Miles is sleeping in his pack'n'play or his crib during the day and we're going to try it at night as well (soon) :)