Tootie and Fave Save the Day!

Well, I went back to work this week. The only reasons I survived, with what little sanity I had left, are Amber and Amanda. Our incredible friends saved the day. They kept Evan all week while were in teacher inservice. Hopefully it will make the transition easier when she actually has to go to daycare in Decatur on Tuesday.

I had to report at school on Tuesday at 8:00 a.m. So, when the alarm went off at 5:30 a.m., I begrudgingly went to take a shower and Lance headed to the kitchen. When he walked down the hallway later with a cup of coffee in one hand and a bottle in the other, he said, "Now I actually feel like a parent. Isn't this what they do?" While he took care of Evan, I got ready for the day and by 7:00 a.m., we were on the road to the Aunts' home. Of course they welcomed her with open arms and sleepy eyes. When I left, I actually looked forward to work. This routine continued each morning and I really enjoyed it. I loved the time in the early morning with Evan. While I was at work, I could focus on my job because I knew she was totally safe. Luckily for all of us, Amanda works from home on Mondays and has generoursly offered to keep Evan each Monday. "Few!" That will make it easier!

Aunt Tootie and Aunt Fave, or Amanda and Amber - whichever you prefer, are two of the most giving, caring, strong, amazing women we know. Over the last two years I have watched them parent their own two beautiful children, Caleb and Mckinlee. I have marveled at their ability to balance their busy lives as business owners and parents. I wish I knew how to adequately express how grateful we are for their support and love. We could not do it without them and, frankly, we do not want to. We could not fathom our lives without their laughter and guidance.

So this week we tackled car seats, separation and school. Who knows what is in store for us? As we head into the new year, at least we have incredible people in our corner!

--Sara

The Great Geebaw

On Saturday, Evan had her first visit with her Geebaw (the wonderful woman who has lovingly agreed to love Evan as one of her own grandchildren, thus allowing her to call her by the chosen name, Geebaw). Pam or "Geebaw" was one of my Mother's closest friends and we think of her as family. We feel quite fortunate that Pam is in our lives, and with her we get her delightful daughter, Josi, and granddaughter, Hannah, as well.

Pam and Josi came down on Saturday and stayed through Monday morning. We had a great time. Pam provided the loving advice and support we sorely needed. Once they departed for the Texas panhandle, we felt better prepared for parenthood. Thank you Geebaw!

The rest of the week was pretty good. On Thursday, we traveled to Decatur to have another photo session done. I think we got some pretty good shots. Rest assured, we will post them as soon as we have them!

Unfortunately, we also tried to slowly introduce the less expensive Costco brand of formula and it was not a success. After another round of projectile spit-up and tummy cramps we have surrendered. Evan's sensitive stomach cannot tolerate anything but the ridiculously priced Enfamil.

On Friday, Lance had to go back to work. So, I was on my own with Evan for an entire day. It was incredibly tiring and difficult. We were still dealing with the aftermath from the formula debacle, so she was fussy and I was frustrated. I was really happy to see Daddy walk through the door at 4:15 p.m.

It was really an eye-opening day for me. I know now that being a stay-at-home Mom might be more than I could handle. So, I think starting back to work on Tuesday, knowing she is in good hands, will be best for all of us. I will let you know how it goes!

The weekend has been good. After Lance got home on Friday, we went to Aunt Fave's birthday celebration at her parents' house and had a good time. We have spent the rest of the weekend at home trying to get ready for school to begin...and trying to get Evan on a school schedule. Who knows? It just might work!

--Sara

The Last Five Weeks

The last five weeks have been filled with the usual: sleep deprivation, feelings of inadequacy, spit-up covered shoulders, and sappy smiles.

It is true. It is much harder that I ever imagined it would be...much harder. Of course it has been worth it, but in ways I never dreamed.

Those of you who know us, already know that Lance is truly one of the best. I knew that too; but it is has never been more evident than in the last five weeks. He never fails to be there for either one of us. Whether it is a pillow under my elbow or a refill on my water bottle, he is there. He has smiled through the peeing, the pooping, and the puking. I watch him delight as Evan reacts to him and I am again filled with such overwhelming love for the two of them, I just sit and cry. This has also prompted Lance to worry about the "baby blues" and insist I go out with the girls! He has been selfless and I need everyone to know how much he is appreciated and loved.

Evan is just beginning to really see us and react. Her smiles light up our hearts. I now look forward to every day...just to see what she is going to discover.

Thank you to all who have visited...we appreciate your support and love more than you know.

My plan is to blog once a week to let everyone know what Miss Evan is doing, but as I have learned...nothing will ever go according to plan again. Que sera sera, we have a beautiful little girl!

--Sara