April Hufty - Journal

Training...

2008-10-30T15:43:00.000-07:00

My training has picked up lately after a couple weeks of rest. I took a week off, because I started to get burned out, and then I took another week off, because I was sick. I am back on track thanks to much encouragement from friends. I have enjoyed running more than I thought I would. My motivation has changed a couple of times. In the beginning, I just wanted to get skinny fast! Then when that disappointed me, I started focusing on what I could make my body do. I am amazed that I can run 4 miles 3 times a week and consider them short runs! I never thought I would be able to run 13 miles, but I am now confident that I can do it. I run early in the mornings (5:15am-6:00am-MWF) with my friend Michelle who encouraged me to run this ½ marathon. I have really enjoyed her friendship and running tips! On Saturdays, I have been running with a group from my church. Last Saturday, we ran 9.5 miles. My friend Nora humbled herself and ran with me the whole way. She is a 5 time marathoner!…and will run in the New York marathon this Saturday. The ½ marathon is in 2 weeks and I am glad. I am ready to just do it. I look forward to the days when I don’t have to get up early! It should be an interesting experience. The marathon is sold out with 30,000 runners! I know…it is hard to believe there are that many crazy people like me!

Pumpkin Patch!

2008-10-28T06:09:00.001-07:00

Sunday, Aaron and I decided to take Rachel to the pumpkin patch. We had a great time watching her roam free among all the unique pumpkins. When Aaron asked her what they were, she very excitedly said, "APPLES"! She liked to pat each one as if she were testing its ripeness or something. She also liked the ones she could sit on. We took several pictures, and they turned out pretty good considering most of the time she was way too busy to be still for a picture. The weather Sunday night was very warm and we all enjoyed being outside at sunset.

Big Girl Bed!

2008-10-09T12:53:00.001-07:00

A couple of days ago, I assembled Rachel's toddler been that has been sitting in the garage. She "helped" me put it together and was so proud to show Daddy when he got home. It is a bit of a struggle to put her to sleep now that she can get out! She is getting the hang of it though. She likes it a lot!

Rachel singing with a jelly sandwich!

2008-10-07T11:05:00.000-07:00

I have learned how to use the video feature on my camera! On the way home, Rachel started singing at the top of her lungs to my praise music CD. It was so hilarious! She can sing the whole chorus by herself! When I got home, I rushed in to get my camera. The video doesn't show her singing the whole chorus, but it is still pretty entertaining. Enjoy! (notice at the end when I ask her to say bye bye, she says, "Bye, bye Aunt Amber!")

1/2 Marathon

2008-08-10T21:06:00.000-07:00

I have gone completely insane and have decided to run a 1/2 marathon! The race is called the San Antonio Rock 'n' Roll Marathon and it will be November 16th. I will be training 6 days a week for the next 14 weeks. What am I thinking!?! I will be running with about 6 of my friends from church. I am scared of failing and scared that I will loose my drive, but I am ready to be back in shape, healthy, and strong. I will keep you updated on my progress.

Twin Vacation!

2008-07-21T18:53:00.000-07:00

Last year, Amber and I decided that we would like to start having annual twin vacations! What a wonderful idea! This year, we decided to get a cheap hotel in Austin and shop! We met at 9:30am and the mall was close so we went there. I told Amber that I have a lot of “Mommy” clothes and I need more teaching clothes since I will be working 3 days a week at UTSA. So, she was very helpful when I was tempted to look at/buy “Mommy” clothes. At one point, she even said, “I hope you didn’t just buy a Mommy shirt behind my back.”
We shared a chicken sandwich, fries, and a coke at lunch and shopped some more. One funny thing that happened was I finally found a shirt that I liked and when we finished trying on more things we totally forgot about it. About 45 minutes later, Amber said, “What happened to that brown shirt you decided to buy in Dillards?” HA! We laughed and went back and bought it.
After so much shopping, we were getting tired and cranky, so we headed back to the hotel and took a long nap. Yes! I never get a nap!
Our hotel was CHEAP! Ooh girl…cheap. Amber got us a great deal- $36.00 at a 2 star extended stay hotel. It was just fine. We had cable and a refrigerator and felt very safe. The air conditioner leaked cold water on the floor and the shower curtain came down in the bathroom, but other than that it was a bargain! HA! It certainly gave us something to talk about!
After our nap, we hurried out the door for our evening show. A live performance of “Beauty and the Beast” was showing in Zilker Park’s outdoor theater. We arrived over 2 hours early so that we could have good seats and too our surprise the hillside was already covered in blankets and lawn chairs. I was relentless in giving Amber a hard time, because she kept telling me that no one would be there that early. We laughed and kept calling ourselves “rookies.” We ended up finding a place near the front, but very much on the side of the hill. They were still really good seats. We spread out our blanket and lawn chairs and ate our Taco Bell before the show. The show was high quality and surprisingly well done. We were not expecting much since it was free, but wow!...it was great. I can’t wait to take Rachel to a show next year.
After the show, we bought powdered doughnuts, milk, and cereal for breakfast.
Sunday we slept in and were checked out of the hotel by noon. Amber took me by her work and showed me her office and then treated me to lunch at Mimi’s Café…so good! We leisurely shopped some more and laughed mostly. We shared Jack in the Box for dinner and ended our day watching Wall-E at the theater nearby. It was a great movie. Amber panicked when she realized that she didn’t have a hoodie to keep her warm. I said we can share this one! …so we did. I had my arm in one sleeve and she had her arm in the other. We joked that we were Siamese twins! (see picture). As always, it was sad to say goodbye, but we had to return to the real world eventually.
Favorite inside jokes
· “Twin Baca!”
· “Jean skirt, blue necklace?”
· “A person can die without water!”
· “Its like your buddy”

Breakthrough!

2008-07-14T18:28:00.001-07:00

RACHEL POOPED ON THE POTTY ALL BY HERSELF! Halleluia! Praise the Lord! She is getting it! ...AND she is peeing on the potty like a pro - all day! Can you believe it?!

I may be blogging a lot about potty training, but it is my life right now...MY LIFE!

Lightbulb Moment!

2008-07-13T19:40:00.000-07:00

It has been a long 5 days, but I am happy to report that we are making progress! I have been tireless in my efforts to devote every ounce of my attention to this potty training task. I am also fortunate to have the help and support of Aaron too! Thursday and Friday, she sat on her small potty in the living room every hour or so. It was fun and exciting for most of the day, but toward the end, not even my bribes would work! She enjoys coloring, working puzzles, watching TV, and eating while sitting there. She peed on the potty mainly because she sat on it so often. Saturday, she only peed on the potty ONCE! It was not a successful day. She did not want to play that game anymore! Keesha watched her during the afternoon, because we had a wedding to sing in (Julie and Alex). Thank you Keesha! ...That is a good friend! Today, I stayed home from church to continue to work with her. I feel like a broken record! "Rachel? Do you need to go potty?" Today, She began telling me "potty!" in the MIDST of saturating her panties! ...I quickly scooped her up and took her to the potty each time. Although frustrating, She did much better than yesterday. Tonight was the biggest breakthrough when she simply looked at me and said, "potty Mommy." I just knew she was peeing at that moment, but to my surprise...she was dry. I said, "ok, Rachel...lets go potty." We calmly walked to the potty, I helped her with her pants, and she sat down and PEED! WOW! What a concept! Aaron and I rejoiced with her, clapped with her, sang potty songs with her, and gave her a well-deserved M&M! I am so proud of her. I called Mom as soon as I could!

Oops!

2008-07-11T18:20:00.000-07:00

"I accidently pooped in the bathtub! ...Sorry Mommy!"

"...Hey, stop looking at my ears."

Picture Gallery

2008-07-11T13:16:00.001-07:00

I started a picture gallery, so if you would like to see more photos please click http://picasaweb.google.com/aprilhufty.

Potty Training

2008-07-10T08:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I started the impossible task of potty training Rachel. I have gathered a lot of advice and decided to begin my quest. She had a few accidents yesterday, but overall did well. Sitting on the potty yesterday was fun and exciting, but today…not so much. She is bored with the idea already telling me “no!” so I am trying to be very sensitive and not pushy. I am pulling out all the tricks and practically doing cartwheels when she is cooperative. So far today, she has had two accidents...not bad. With all this hard work I understand why they call it a milestone! I read an article online that reminded me that “this is HER milestone…not YOURS.” I laughed…so true. I don’t expect her to be potty trained tomorrow or even next month, but I am certainly determined to devote my best efforts so that she can be successful before I start teaching in a couple of months.
This is something I pondered today…What possesses a child to hold pee in while sitting on the potty for 5 minutes, and then letting the flood gates open as soon as new birthday clothes are put on? …Anyone?

Camping

2008-07-09T12:35:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, we went camping at Beuscher State Park. This was Rachel’s first time. She loved every minute of it. Mimi made Rachel an Elmo birthday cake that she just loved! Aaron and Tim B. went on an 8 mile hike! …crazy, I know. A few Austin relatives stopped by on Sunday and brought Rachel presents! What a wonderful surprise! It was so nice to spend time with family. When it started to get dark, we roasted marshmallows and ate smores. Aaron quickly put our tent up before it got too dark and Rachel loved playing inside. Rachel ate so many sweets that she had a terrible tummy ache in the middle of the night. I am sure she woke up everyone in the entire park! I finally consoled her and let her sleep on me for most of the night….lawn chairs aren’t the most comfortable things to sleep in! The next morning, Papa made breakfast…eggs, bacon, and toast. Aaron and I rested while Mimi and Papa took Rachel to the playground. It was a fun memory.
Mimi and Papa
Jeremy and Amber
Tim and Emily
Granny and Ann
Tim, Lauren, and Garrett
Theresa and Beth

4th of July

2008-07-05T12:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we celebrated the 4th of July by watching the Fiesta Texas fireworks from the parking lot of La Cantera Mall (as we did last year). We brought food and had a tailgate party with our friends- the Eppersons and the Gileos. Lee staked out a good spot near a grassy island, so we spread out our lawn chairs and the kids played. It was so much fun. I believe we have started a tradition with this event…free entertainment!

Rachel's Birthday Party

2008-07-04T12:44:00.000-07:00

(notice the shoes...Nike shocks- Thanks Aunt Amy!

Rachel is 2! Wow! It is so hard to believe. When she was born, I always thought to myself…she will never be 2! Realistically, I knew she would, but it just seemed so far away.
We celebrated yesterday at La Cantera with my mom’s group (lunch bunch). I brought cupcakes for everyone and they were quite popular. Rachel ate hers using one of her candles as a utensil. Like most of the kids, Rachel ate just the icing.
When we finished eating, we went to the mall playground which is our normal routine. We had a great time watching the kids play and run around with their balloons. I meant to get a group picture of all the kids.
Rachel, Sarah, and Allan Epperson
Keesha, Olivia, and Xander Williamson
Niki, Lauren, and Luke Loudermilk
Alyssa, Kaden, and Benjamin Fitz

Missouri

2008-06-17T22:05:00.000-07:00

We just returned home from spending the last 10 days in Missouri with family. It was so nice to be there for the summer. It was the best trip (in my opinion) we have ever had there. We went to attend and participate in Sara and Brian’s wedding. Getting there was a little rough! We had to wake up at 4:00am to make our 6:00am flight. Rachel did great until she got motion sickness. She vomited on the first flight which we were highly unprepared for. It was everywhere! We bought a new t-shirt for her at the Dallas airport since I didn’t have a change of clothes (a pink shirt with Elmo-Perfect!). Then she vomited again on the second flight. We were much more prepared the second time having the bags ready! We were so glad to get off that plane. Brad took us straight to the hotel and we showered and rested.

The wedding was held at a vineyard in a small town called Herman. The rehearsal went well and it was so refreshing to see the whole family together again. We finally got to meet Braden for the first time. He was so alert and showed off his beautiful blue eyes…so precious. He is 5 mos old.

The day of the wedding, Aaron and I showed ourselves around the charming little town and found a Music and Arts Festival which we LOVED!

The wedding was beautiful and everything went as planned. Aaron led the ceremony and did a fantastic job, Rachel was a flower girl and I sang. I was mostly concerned about how Rachel would behave during the ceremony. She was wired and squirmy before the wedding, but did uncharacteristically good walking down the path with Olivia and sitting with Nan during the wedding, thank goodness. Sara was radiant and at times teary, and Brian was handsome and sincere in his gaze. After the dance, we were all exhausted and crashed at the hotel another night.

The rest of the week consisted of a lot of rest and a much slower pace. We spent time outside watching the kids play in the water. Seth and Olivia were tireless as they played on the slip n’ slide and Rachel sat in her kiddy pool and enjoyed splashing around.

On Wednesday, Nan took us to Grant’s farm (now owned by Budweiser). It was a beautiful day and Rachel loved it! We got to see the Clydesdale horses, elephants, turtles, lamas, camels, and more. It was so much fun for all of us.

Later in the week, Aaron took us out on the four-wheeler to show Rachel the cows. The cows were eager to see us, because they thought we were bringing food. They “mooed” right in front of us. They were large and intimidating. Rachel plastered herself to me or Aaron as they surrounded us. As we rode along to the back of the land, I snapped pictures of the stampeding cows following us wherever we went! The land was green for miles as it has rained so much there lately. The rain flooded several surrounding towns and there were many bridge closings. Aaron was surprised that they were comparing the floods to the flood of 1993.

Friday night, we went to a Cardinals game. It was Aaron’s first time to go since the stadium renovations. Rachel was crawling over seats and up stairs until a Cardinal player hit a homerun. The fireworks certainly got her attention. She was so startled that she scrambled for my lap and sat still for a good 30 minutes just in case it happened again. We had good seats, however, the Cardinals lost terribly (2-22). Even though they lost, we had a great time. That night we said goodbye to Sara, Brian, and Braden. I am not sure when we will see them again (tear) especially if they stay in Japan.

Sunday was Father’s Day. We had lunch after church at Eagle’s Nest Café in Louisiana with Nan, Brad, Adam, Nicole, Ashton, and Kobe. It was SO good!
The rest of the day was spent traveling home. Rachel got sick again, and we decided she might be getting nauseous because of the Elmo movie we set up on the laptop to occupy her attention. She did better after she stopped watching it, but who knows. It is great to be home. Thanks to our friend Steven, our plants are still alive…and thanks to Carrie and Jeff, our dog is still alive! Rachel was so happy to see Sebastian and she can finally say his name now!

Father's Day

2008-06-17T19:44:00.003-07:00

Happy Father’s Day Daddy! I am a few days late, but better late than never! Thanks for being such a fun and loving Dad! Your love has never been as visible as it is now especially when you spend time loving on Rachel. Thank you for showering Rachel with the love you have given me all my life. Rachel still asks for you and Mimi and every time she hears a loud car she says, “HOTROD!” I wish I could have sent some time with you this weekend. Hopefully we will see you soon. Miss you and I LOVE YOU!

Charger Show

2008-06-01T12:31:00.001-07:00

Dad prepared all week to take the charger to a car show in Boerne. Rachel helped Papa a lot! As he was loading the car on Thursday night, the starter broke. Dad decided that it would not be easy to fix, so the car show dropped out of our plans. Mark, Mom, and I pushed the charger back into the garage. It was not as easy as it sounds! Friday morning, Dad took the car to his buddy at Dempsy’s and they were able to fix it. So Dad and I went to pick it up and he let me drive the charger home from the automotive shop! I was shocked that he asked me, but excited and a little scared. The 5-speed transmission was quirky and the loud engine was intimidating, but it was such a RUSH! I loved it! Dad followed me home on his motorcycle and we arrived safely!

We hauled the charger in the big trailer all the way to San Antonio. It was a good trip. Rachel was good and pretty quiet until the very end…she was done! The car show was yesterday and Dad lined his car up with all the others. Dad’s car was OF COURSE the coolest and the only green car with unique red stripe. However, most people admired the large engine. The Williamson’s met us there, and we ate at the Bear Moon Café.

bulbs

2008-06-01T12:25:00.000-07:00

For those of you that care…my bulbs are growing so fast. I was thrilled to see their progress after being gone a week (picture taken yesterday).

Bakery

2008-05-31T12:53:00.000-07:00

Mom had a very busy week, because of the high school graduations. The bakery hit an all time record high for cake orders in one day...72! Rachel sat on a can on the table and watched Mimi decorate cakes. She found all sorts of toys to play with! Mom enjoyed the company, however, her progress slowed quite a bit! Rachel liked her cookie on a stick!

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-30T12:59:00.000-07:00

We drove to Abilene to spend the long weekend with Mom and Dad. We hadn’t been there since Easter and needed some time away. Rachel and I stayed the week, but it was a short trip for Aaron.
We went swimming almost everyday. Rachel continued to get more and more comfortable with the water. She was insecure at first and would say “hep, hep!” She insisted that someone was touching her floaty with both hands at all times. But just in a few days, she learned how to float by herself and didn’t want anyone heping her at all! She wanted to do it all herself! My anxiety level dropped dramatically when she could balance herself and kick her feet. I was able to really relax and enjoy myself. I gave her some crackers to snack on, but she couldn’t figure out why they kept getting soggy! “Hold the cracker up Rachel!”

Choir Banquet

2008-05-24T20:05:00.000-07:00

Aaron’s choir banquet was last night. We had a great time. It was a date! The students dressed up and many awards were given. Aaron honored the seniors and his good friend and associate Jennifer (since she will be teaching somewhere else next year). Later everyone danced and had so much fun. Aaron was pleased with the amount of people that came…150.

La Cantera 5-22

2008-05-23T19:43:00.000-07:00

Every week, Rachel and I have lunch at La Cantera with friends! It is so nice. I look forward to it every week. My friend Rachel Epperson and I started meeting for lunch when Baby Girl was only 2 months old! Yesterday, I took some pictures so that I could share. We eat in the food court, then go play at the playground. It is a much needed time for me and Rachel. Our group has grown so much and we are now out numbered by our kids! I am the only Mom with just one kid now! ….don’t get any ideas!

Stickers and Braid

2008-05-23T19:18:00.000-07:00

Today was a good day for us. We stayed home the whole day and played together! She also “helped” me clean the house. While I was cleaning my office area, I found some Krispy Kreme stickers and she was fascinated! She wore them on her body for a long while. It was a Kodak moment! She didn’t have a nap today…in fact, she has decided lately that she doesn’t need a nap. She is so tired, but just refuses to sleep…not sure why.
After her bath tonight, I was noticing how long her hair was getting, so I made a braid…HER FIRST BRAID! So pretty!

Bulbs!

2008-05-23T19:12:00.001-07:00

I planted several bulbs a little over a month ago (April 17th) and they have been amazing to watch! I have never been so successful at growing anything in my whole life! They are really starting to bloom and they change every day! The first picture was taken on May 15th and the second picture was taken today…only 8 days later! I am feeling very proud! ….and wanted to share!

Choral Society -Brahms

2008-05-23T19:05:00.000-07:00

Aaron had his last concert of the season on Sunday. It was one of the best that I have seen. He was so excited, because everyone had worked so hard and the music was masterful…Brahms. The church was full all the way to the back and the choir and orchestra were impressive in number. It was so relaxing to sit in that church and listen to the live polished choir. Rachel would have loved the music, but I did not bring her. I needed the break, and she would have definitely been on the recording! Oh dear!

Elmo!

2008-05-13T20:59:00.001-07:00

We have a new best friend in the Hufty household…ELMO! About a month ago, I discovered that Sesame Street came on from 9:00am-10:00am every morning. Ever since this discovery our morning always includes the show. It is not hard to tell that Elmo is her favorite part as she mimics everything he does…singing, dancing, laughing. Saturday, we found an Elmo doll at Target and now Elmo goes everywhere Rachel does.

My Mother's Day

2008-05-10T21:44:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful day! I was expecting to have a boring uneventful Mother’s Day, but it was surprisingly great! Church was energizing and uplifting. I am surrounded by so many people that love me and I know that I am so blessed. Aaron was in Missouri for his Grandfather’s funeral, so I was just going to spend the day at home. However, I didn’t have to, because I was invited to lunch by our dear friends Pat and Marcia Snodgrass. We went to the Hyatt Resort! There was live music, ice sculptures, clowns, and TONS of food (buffet style)…my favorite was the dessert buffet! I enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere and the great company! Rachel was surprisingly good considering I really pushed her naptime back. The rest of the day, I reflected on how much I love being a Mommy! I tried to get Rachel to tell me Happy Mother’s Day, but she said, “NO!” I did not take offense. I took a hug instead!

Happy Mother's Day Mom!

2008-05-10T19:43:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's Day Mommy/ Mimi! I hope you have a RELAXING and peaceful day! You are such an awesome person and I love you so much! You are EVERY WOMAN! I want to teach Rachel everything you have taught me about life, Jesus, faith, unconditional love, and inner beauty, because those are a few of the many priceless gifts you have given me! I am so glad there is a day to honor people like you, because you deserve it! Thank you for always showering Baby Girl with your overflowing love and attention. She KNOWS her Mimi loves her! I miss you tons and hope to be in Abilene sometime soon to go swimming with you (and Rachel)! I need a Mom fix! Kiss, kiss, hug, hug from me Rachel and Aaron! I love you so much Mom!
April
(pictures taken in February '08)

Bottle

2008-05-10T15:58:00.000-07:00

Today is Rachel's 13th day of being sober from the bottle! I am so proud of her. I wouldn't have been able to do it without the support of my friends. I dreaded taking it away from her, but found myself at times embarrassed that she is almost 2 and still on the bottle. I had been slowly withholding the bottle for about 3 months now and finally decided that wasn't working and I needed to wash those bottles and put them away for good! COLD TURKEY!It has been tough on me and her both, but we are almost fully adjusted to the new lifestyle. Yesterday was the first day that I really felt like she ate enough in a day! She has never eaten well and is completely disinterested in food 95% of the time. All she wanted was the bottle. She is slowly learning that she needs to eat to have energy and a full tummy. I let her sit in her chair and eat anytime she wants to which is about 4 or 5 times a day. She is even starting to tell me when she is hungry by saying "uh hunry" and "eat some?". She woke up a couple of days ago and I the first thing she said was, "roni-cheese" (macaroni and cheese) so that is what she had for breakfast! When we go places, coping without the bottle is tough, especially when sometimes we drive for 30 minutes! So her diaper bag is always stocked with her favorite snacks- fruit gummys, mini-oreos, chex, and crackers. She recently learned the word cookie, but when Rachel requests it, it comes out "kicoo"!!!

Garden

2008-05-10T15:52:00.000-07:00

April 18th- I wanted to show off my freshly tamed, pruned, and mulched garden. It took a lot of hard work...luckily I had Rachel to help me! Ha! She kept pointing to my legs saying "dirty!" ...and looking at my hands and saying "yucky!" When I used the water hose she said "water?" I wanted to put some old shoes on her, but she insisted on wearing the on-backwards-miss-matched ones she picked out and put on herself (see picture). I planted some bulbs (calladiums) in pots that I will transfer to the garden when and if they survive. I had some old empty pots laying around and Rachel kept saying "hat?" and putting it on her head (dirt and all). I made her stay on the outside of the garden while I worked, but she was very upset about it. She pouted and cried...and then when she got quiet, I looked back and notice that she had one foot in!...she was testing me!

She is at such a teachable age. We learned how to say we are sorry today. "tell Mommy you're sorry" ...Rachel says "Shaaahwy" ...super cute!

Rachel and Mommy

2008-05-09T23:39:00.000-07:00

Rachel is my life and my joy! The Lord has given me such an important and special little girl to raise and take care of. She makes me smile everyday and I am so blessed to get to stay home with her.

Zoo!

2008-05-09T22:48:00.000-07:00

We went to the Zoo last Saturday! Rachel went last summer, but this was like going for the first time! It was so great! Aaron and I had a blast showing Rachel the animals and teaching her about frogs, elephants, hippos, birds, monkeys, bears, fish, ect. She saw a mountain lion and called it a kitty cat! She could have stayed there all day. We went to the petting part of the Zoo and she touched a sheep and several goats. The day was beautiful and breezy, not too hot. When we got home she crashed!

Kiddy pool

2008-05-09T22:32:00.000-07:00

It is getting really hot down here in San Antonio, so we are finding new ways to cool off. Rachel loves to play in the water and splash. She is still learning the word "swim," so I ask her if she wants to take a bath outside...She practically can't get her clothes off fast enough. The picture shows her in a bathing suit (first time in the kiddy pool), but most of the time she plays n@k3d!!!

Locks of Love

2008-05-07T21:21:00.000-07:00

So most of you have noticed that I cut my hair off! I had been growing it out for a while so that I could donate it to Locks of Love. Thank you to Emily and Tim (sister and brother-in-law) who greatly inspired me! I went to the salon on April 18th and was able to donate 11 inches. It was a gratifying and liberating experience. I love my new hair and now I am ready for the summer!

12-13 months

2007-07-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

July 2^nd- We went to Sea World with Mimi and Papa! She clapped for Shamu! It rained on us and she liked it.
July 3^rd- Doctors visit- 10% in weight, 25% in height, 90% in head.
July 4^th- We sing, “Old MacDonald had a farm…” Rachel says, “E-I-E-I-E-I…..”
July 6^th- Says “Uh-oh”!
July 10^th- She tries to say Daddy. Most of the time it sounds more like Daggie …or just Da.
July 13^th- She says “Duck” when she sees her rubber ducky!
July 14^th- We say “How big is Rachel?” Rachel reaches for the sky and we say, “Sooo big!”

11-12 months

2007-06-30T13:08:00.000-07:00

June 2^nd- We finally found a sippy cup that she will take (kind of).

June 4^th- Sara and Brian’s wedding day. Brian called her “Doll-face.” Rachel got sick while they were here (some sort of bug).
June 17^th- She blows kisses and gives hugs
She still does not eat well…but bring on the Gerber squash!
June 18^th- She cries herself to sleep very well and sleeps through the night. FINALLY!
June 20^th- She will give you a “five.”
June 20^th- She pats me when she lays her head on my shoulder…SO CUTE!
June 21^st- MawMaw (Nan) came to visit!
June 22^nd- We went to the Botanical Gardens. She loves to be outside.
June 25^th- We went to the Zoo. She had a good time, but didn’t always see the animals we pointed to.
July1st- Rachel’s first birthday party- We played “Stick the Tail on the Donkey” and we blew bubbles outside. Mimi and Papa brought the amazing cake. Rachel stole Olivia’s sippy cup and chewed on it most of the party. She got clothes and toys and a hat that was too small for her head. She didn’t eat her cake at all. She wanted out of the high chair, because she felt like she was missing out! We had a great turn out and it was a blast!
Guests: Heather, Zoe, and Zachry Vann, Pat and Marcia Snodgrass, Jennifer Zaccagni, Lee, Rachel, and Sarah Epperson, Mike, Rozlyn, Caleb, and Maggie Wurtz, Suzie and Jesus Rocha, Janea, Caleb, Mason, and Luke Gileo, Lisa Arnold and Steve Crawford, Mimi and Papa, Amber and Jeremy Harper, Keesha, Xander, and Olivia Williamson, Stormy, Julie Breeden, Janice, Max, and Paige Grantz

10-11 months

2007-06-01T13:07:00.000-07:00

May 2^nd- She claps and dances when she hears music.

May 15^th-23^rd- We drove to Abilene.
May 16^th- Granddaddy taught her how to wink! She would only do it for him.
May 17^th-Rachel went swimming for the first time and loved it!
She watched the toy train with Papa
May 22^nd- Plays peek-a-boo. She puts her hands on her head when we say “Where’s Rachel?” …then we say, “There she is!”
May 23^rd- She opens her mouth really wide when she sees someone!
May 25^th- She holds the phone (among other toys) up to her ear when we say “Hello?”
May 26^th- She finally figured out how to wave! I worked forever on that one!
May 29^th- She hums when I sing Blue Skies and Rainbows! … and that song ALWAYS cheers her up!
May 29^th- June 1^st- Slept through the night! YESSSSS!
May 31^st- She figured out how to unroll the toilet paper.
June 1^st- First word- “Doggy”
June 1^st- She like to tease Sebastian with her treat.

9-10 months

2007-04-30T13:06:00.000-07:00

She claps and wiggles when she hears music
April 6^th- We took pictures in the blue bonnets!
April 7^th- Her first step!
April 8^th- We had Easter at the Harper’s house.
April 8^th- First top tooth!
April 9^th- She goes from sitting to standing without pulling up.
April 14^th- She took 14 steps in a row! She’s walking!
April 26^th- She is walking consistently now.
April 26^th- She had a cracker for the first time.
She still wakes up once or twice at night

8-9 months

2007-03-31T13:05:00.000-07:00

March 15^th- Ate her first Cheerio.
March 19^th – She stands for 12 seconds.
March 25^th- She walks on all fours.
March 31^st- Sarah Epperson’s (best friend) birthday party.

7-8 months

2007-02-28T13:04:00.000-08:00

She loves her videos!
Aaron puts her to sleep on his shoulder at night while he watches Star Trek.
February 18^th- Her 2nd tooth came in (bottom)!
February 18^th- She crawls into other rooms by herself…just exploring!
Gets into EVERYTHING!
Says “hoo hoo” and snorts when she gets excited! HA!
February 24^th- She met Tahj for the first time!

6-7 months

2007-01-30T13:03:00.000-08:00

These first 6 months have completely changed our lives. The whole world revolves around our little girl. If she is happy, then I am happy!

We are at a very good place now. I am starting to wean her from breastfeeding and start her on baby food.

Growth spurt…Holy Cow! Eating all the time and not sleeping through the night.
January 8^th- eating in the high chair
January 8^th – first crawl! …forward movement.
January 9^th- goes from a laying position to a sitting position.

Starting on rice cereal…and will not eat it!
Smacks with her lips and tongue.
January 14^th- crawls the length of the couch! REALLY!!!
Happy as a clam!
She can get out of the Bumbo all by herself…she is very determined!
January 16^th- She crawls without encouragement…all by herself!
January 16^th- Pulled up on her own in her crib (first time)!
January 27^th- She is pulling up consistently
January 27^th- We were trying to get Rachel to say Daddy and she started saying “da da da da” over and over again. We got it on video, and Aaron was so happy!
January 27^th- Rachel saw her first live musical- Wizard of Oz- O’Connor HS. I brought the bumbo and some toys and she sat in the aisle and although she got a bit restless, she was good the whole time.
Her favorite food is Gerber squash!
January 28^th- Her first tooth emerged (bottom)!
January 28^th- She was dedicated in church
Still “bubbles” her tongue all the time
Rubs her eyes when she’s sleepy, but never likes to go to bed.
She laughs at Sebastian all the time.
Her favorite things are: straps, cords, Sebastian’s ball, bulb syringe, remote, baby videos, and mirrors.
January 30^th- Sarah Epperson’s first step at our house
Rachel can climb out of the bouncer even when buckled in!

5-6 months

2006-12-31T13:02:00.000-08:00

A NEW BABY!!! She is happy and smiles always! We have turned a corner!
Aaron and I can finally eat a meal together, because she will play by herself!
She bubbles with lips and tongue. Daddy taught her that one!
She always cries when I leave the room.
Getting stronger because of the excersaucer. She loves it!
We went to Aaron’s rehearsal for his annual Yuletide Feast at O’Connor and she was quiet though the whole show. Thank goodness. We enjoyed showing her off.
He most frequent compliment “She is so alert!”
December 2^nd, She holds bottle by herself (kind of).
December 4^th, Starting to do Mini push-ups…so strong.
December 12^th, She fell asleep to Baby Einstein video.
I am only breastfeeding her 50% of the time.
She will not go to sleep! We spend a lot of time singing her to sleep (Blue Sky’s and Rainbows) as she swings in her swing.
She found her feet…her new toy! Ha!
She is a happy baby who can play by herself! I never thought this day would come. We are in a good place!
December 9^th, She can sit up unassisted! I am so proud!
She played under the Christmas tree at Mimi’s house. So cute. She loves the lights and shiny balls.
I hate to be away from her for SACC rehearsals.
In late December, Rachel had her first plane ride- Christmas in Missouri -she was an absolute angel. I will never drive to Missouri again!
December 26th, she crawls backwards.
December 31^st, she pulls her knees up under her and rocks.

4-5 months

2006-11-30T13:01:00.000-08:00

November 30th

November 15^th, we switched her formula to soy and she showed much improvement.
November 15^th, Rachel started to play by herself. She was okay playing in the floor occasionally.
November 15^th, we borrowed an excersaucer from Keesha. It is the best invention ever!
We are really noticing how little and petit she is compared to other kids her age.
She rapidly moves arm back and forth when tired to keep herself awake. “Go to sleep, Rachel.”
Mimi bought her a phone rattle and it is her favorite toy…Thanks Mimi!
We discovered that she loves baby videos.
We went to Abilene for Thanksgiving and Tim took family photos.

3-4 months

2006-10-31T13:00:00.000-08:00

Early October, she was diagnosed with acid reflux and prescribed medicine for her excessive spitting up.

October 14^th- She rolled over for the first time in her crib that morning (back to front). I think it took her so long to roll over, because we had to hold her ALL the time. She is very strong, but didn’t spend a lot of time on the floor awake, because she would just cry and cry.

Rachel fell asleep in the swing for the first time (with the blowdryer on of course) …YES!!! That is HUGE!
She falls asleep every night in the swing with the blowdryer (3 ½ - 5 ½ mos).
I started taking Rachel to the gym with me. She didn’t like to be away from me so she cried a lot. I was paged often, because she was inconsolable.
October 30^th was the first Sunday the nursery did not page me out of church.
Late October, MawMaw and PawPaw came to visit. She screamed all the way home from picking Nan and Brad up from the airport. I will never forget that. It was awful. I still don’t know what was wrong with her.
October 31^st, we visited the Gastroenterologist for excessive spitting up and constant stomach aches. The previous medication did not help much. The doctor prescribed some more medicine that didn’t help much. He encouraged us and said that it is just a matter of time before she grows out of it…hang in there.
My best guesses as to why she cries all the time: Reflux or gas. She also refuses to eat when I know that she is hungry.

2-3 months

2006-09-30T12:57:00.000-07:00

September – “Lunch at La Cantera.” I started meeting with my friends every Thursday for lunch at the food court…so much fun!

Best compliment- “She is so alert!”
Rachel cries often but is consoled by the bouncy excersize ball we sit on and the blowdryer. We spend HOURS doing this.
She still hates the swing.
I watched TV the most this month, because she demanded to be held and breastfed constantly.
The nursery lady told me to let her “cry it out” and it upset me. I wanted to tell her, “My baby is hurting! …not spoiled! I may be new at this, but I know her better than anybody in this world and certainly better than you!” In retrospect, I think she was trying to help, but it made me feel like she was questioning me as a mother. I was very emotional!
She liked to sit on my lap and lean against my legs while facing me.

1-2 months old

2006-08-30T22:20:00.000-07:00

• First movie- Beauty and the Beast
• If she was awake….she was crying!
• In pain all the time.
• She still does not like the swing.
• 6 weeks old- First road trip to Abilene. She slept almost the whole way, but screamed when we got there, and everyone wanted to take her away from me which made me sad and full of anxiety. I could not stop her from screaming.

A New Season

2006-07-31T22:08:00.000-07:00

I am finally done with school and I am really enjoying this new season of my life. Right now there is nothing I would rather do than take care of my precious 9 pound ball of flesh! Wow…how drastically my life has changed. It is almost August and I feel like I should be signing up for classes at UTSA. I don’t know what it will be like not to have to go to school. I just finished my master’s degree and it was the most challenging experience I have ever had. The summer is almost over and soon Aaron will be back in the swing of things. I think I will really enjoy being a full-time Mommy. I plan to teach a few students, but my goal is to not have to put Rachel in daycare.
I enjoy working out …and it’s a good thing, because I have a lot of work to do! My pre-pregnancy weight was 125lbs. At 41 weeks, my last doctor’s appointment, I weighed 168 and currently I weigh 149. Yikes! Will I ever see 125lbs again?
Aaron and I moved into our first house in January. I really enjoy spending time here. Aaron planted a garden this summer and painted all the bedrooms. We have really made this place our own. I love holding Rachel on the back porch while I sing to her. She loves the warm summer air.

Letter from Mommy

2006-07-31T22:06:00.000-07:00

Dear Rachel,

I have prayed for you countless times, and you are now the most precious gift I have ever received from God. I am so thankful you are here and healthy. I tell you that I love you everyday and hope that even at this young age you know and feel that unconditional love. Aaron and I have prepared our hearts and home for you as best we know how.
As you grow, I hope you know how much you mean to me. I promise to do my very best to give you all the opportunities you need to succeed in life. My prayer is that you will grow up to be a woman who loves the Lord with all her heart.
You are not even a month old and I already can’t imagine my life without you.! You are so real and animated and beautiful. I couldn’t ask for more. I hope I never forget this time I am spending with you now. I love you! Kiss, kiss, hug, hug!

Mommy

0-1 month

2006-07-30T21:24:00.000-07:00

First Days Home
Home visitors (brought food)- Chris Van Heerde, Lee and Rachel Epperson, Annie Gipson, Jennifer Zaccagni, Patti and fam, Chris and Rebekah Georges, Jesus and Suzie Rocha, Gileos, Eleazers, Rich and Cheryl Gochis, Jeff Kleck, Jill Peavey, Rozlyn Wurtz, Peggy and Kay Portillo. Other visitors include- Snodgrass, Mannings, Dyers.
Rachel was born on a Sunday. Mom and Dad stayed here at the house for the first night, but had to leave in the morning. Nan stayed until Thursday. Nan was a lot of help. She got Rachel to take a pacifier, and she stopped her from crying several times too. I was able to rest more because Nan was there. The Forth of July and Aaron’s birthday were quite uneventful. I gave Aaron an IPod.
Emily and Tim came Wednesday night and left Friday morning (July 6-8). Tim took the most adorable pictures of Rachel, and I will cherish them forever (5 days old). She didn’t cry the whole hour and a half, but peed 4 times on me, Aaron, the changing table and Aaron’s leather chair! Tim and Emily were fascinated with her. Rachel’s expressions were sleepy and serious.
Mom returned Friday morning and spent another week with me. Mom wanted to be here on Saturday so that Aaron and I could have an Anniversary date. Aaron and I went to Texas Land and Cattle steak house for our 6th year anniversary and it was my first time away from the baby. It was so nice to get out of the house for a while.
One of Rachel’s favorite things to look at is Grandmommy’s quilt that hangs on the wall in our guest room. She loves all the colors and shapes. When she was concentrating on a face or object her eyes would cross…so hilarious! Rachel always opens her eyes really wide and pushes her eyebrows down for a very humorous facial expression. Amber really thinks it is funny. Aaron enjoys calling her Yoda!!! His other favorite nickname for her is Kuvahmach- Star Trek reference. Aaron is so helpful. He can’t get enough of her. He changes most of her diapers and is good at soothing her.
In the beginning (the first two weeks), I felt very distant from Rachel. It was so hard to believe that she came from my stomach. She didn’t seem to know me …or I her, at all. The longer I am with her, the more I know and love her. Now, it is hard to imagine my life without her. She seems to know (now at 4 weeks old) that I am the one who feeds her…and that is good enough for me! I learn more and more about her everyday. Strangely enough, when Mom left and Aaron went to work, Rachel and I started to really bond. Even though it was hard, it helped to have her all to myself and take care of her. My confidence grew in these weeks (2 - 4weeks). I had never changed a diaper before Rachel!
Last night, I was thrilled, because she slept for 5 hours…halleluia! Ever since she was born, she has struggled with belly aches. I feel so sorry for her and helpless because I can’t always fix it. The doctor told me not to eat or drink dairy products, and so we will see if that helps…weird, I know. I was thankful that I was able to breastfeed Rachel. She latched on very aggressively the first time, but wanted to eat all the time which made me incredibly sore. Tears streamed down my face at times, but I’m a pro now!
We have tried everything to make her feel better. At just 3 weeks old, she will not allow you to bend her over to burp her. She stiffens out her legs to stand instead (3weeks-4 mos). She is obviously very uncomfortable. She hates the swing and must be held at all times. Aaron and I found that bouncing on the exercise ball while cradling her helps, but nothing is as magical as the blow-dryer! We discovered that the constant sound of the blow-dryer soothes her and stops her from crying almost instantly (2 weeks old). Whatever WORKS! The doctor has advised us not to expose her to public places until she is six weeks old. She loves car rides so Aaron, and I go on dates to Sonic. Two birds with one stone.

Impressions and Expectations

2006-07-16T22:29:00.000-07:00

First Impressions
• Mom told me that I would think she was the most beautiful baby on the planet …and she was right. I really do think that! She couldn’t be more beautiful!
• Her ears are the cutest and stick out just a little bit like her mommy. She also has the unique ability of spreading her toes far apart…something she also gets from her mommy.
• Her chin is definitely her daddy’s. From the first time we looked at her, we noticed a slight cleft!...so cute!
• We noticed early on that she has very healthy lungs! Her cry is quite loud, which means of course that she will be a great singer someday!!!
• Rachel hiccups ALL THE TIME! This is of course no surprise to me since she got them quite often before she was even born!
Expectations
• I expected to dread changing her diaper, but since she likes it and it doesn’t smell that bad, I don’t mind so much.
• I expected to have a hard time breastfeeding and at first I did. She is a very aggressive sucker…my little piranha! I was actually thankful for that, but she made me quite sore for a good two weeks. I stuck with it though because I know that it was best for her.
• I expected her to have darker hair. It is surprisingly blonde.

What does your name mean?

2006-07-16T13:27:00.000-07:00

We wanted to find a biblical and meaningful name. I have always wanted to have a little girl named Rachel and Aaron desired to name you after a family member. We both loved the name Elizabeth and considered that for your first name. Elizabeth is the middle name of Nan, Jenny, and Grandma Roberta’s first name. One night we were looking online and found a site that tells the meaning of names. We typed in Rachel Elizabeth and found that the two names together mean, “Innocent lamb consecrated to God.” It was the perfect name for our soon-to-be baby!

Tim's pics...5 days old

2006-07-13T16:12:00.000-07:00

LABOR!

2006-07-04T22:21:00.000-07:00

I was scheduled to be induced at 9:00am on July 2nd- one week after due date…Finally! However, I went into natural labor at midnight. I thought I was having braxton-hicks contractions, so I got in the bathtub hoping to relax those muscles. I was counting on having a restful night before I would be in the hospital for several days, but that didn’t happen. After being in the bathtub for 45 minutes, I started to think my contractions might actually be labor. I woke up Aaron and he held my hand while he continued to be half asleep. As I continued to moan, Aaron realized that my pain was increasing and soon was giving me full attention. He started looking at the clock to time my contractions and they were only five minutes apart. Aaron insisted that we go to the hospital and kept trying to convince me. I kept thinking the contractions would stop or just go away. I didn’t want to have a “false alarm,” but as the pain increased, I was CONVINCED…we needed to go! As Aaron loaded up our pre-packed bag, I went to the guest room and woke up Mom and Nan. Mom was totally out and it took a few shakes to wake her, then she jumped and was worried something was wrong. I said “Its time!” They threw on some clothes and we were off to the hospital. Aaron drove Mom’s Durango. Nan rode in the front seat and Mom rode in the back with me. I was doubled over and Mom felt helpless. Aaron was speeding and trying to time my contractions at the same time. Mom was irritated that he wasn’t going slower over the bumps, but Aaron was gonna get me their FAST! My contractions were 2 minutes apart. The pain was unbearable. We arrived at the hospital around 2:00am. I kept asking when I could get my epidural. I had to wait until a full bag of fluid had gone though my ivy. The anesthesiologist walked through the door at around 3:00am, and I have never been so happy to see anyone in my whole life! At this time, they checked me and I was dilated 8 centimeters. I was not scared to get the shot, just trying to be as still as possible. Once the epidural kicked in things slowed down dramatically. I felt so good. I had not felt that good in MONTHS! Aaron encouraged me to rest and sleep, so that I could have energy later when the baby was born. So I did. Mom called the family. Amber and Jeremy drove down from Leander and arrived at about 4:30am. I was so happy about that. When Daddy got the news, he hopped on his motorcycle and drove all the way down here. He said he froze towards the end of the trip because it started to drizzle. He made good timing (of course) and tried out his new DVD player that he mounted on the bike! That’s my Daddy! He made it just in time to see me right before I started to push at 8:15am. My doctor was busy with another patient, so the nurse coached me through the pushing. Aaron was on one side and Mom was on the other. It felt like I pushed forever with little progress. Aaron counted to 10 each time and was intensely encouraging me. Then, all the sudden, Rachel’s head popped out. The nursed was visibly panicked as she yelled “OK, STOP PUSHING!” Luckily the doctor had just walked in the room and was putting on her rubber gloves. Dr. Beciero coached me through the last few pushes and soon was holding Rachel in her hands-born at 9:10am. She commented on Rachel’s size and was sure she was a 9 pounder. Aaron cut the umbilical cord and they quickly cleaned her and bundled her up. My epidural had worn off quite a bit and the doctor had to give me local anesthesia for the stitches. No wonder it hurt so bad! Rachel weighed 8lbs 4oz and was 19inches long. I was in labor for 9 hours. I couldn’t wait to hold her. I could not believe how beautiful she was. The nurses bundled her up like a burrito, and she was content. I was so happy to FINALLY have her in my arms. Many people visited and we all went home the next day (Monday morning).
• Hopital visitors- Mom and Daddy, Nan, Amber and Jeremy, Lisa Arnold, Suzie and Jesus Rocha, Lee and Rachel Epperson, Patti Ted and Kelsey, Jennifer Zaccagni and Amanda Herring