Grieving:

Grandmas are special

For those of you reading this, I'd like you to play Amazing Grace as background music. 

Dear Grandmom,

Or as I liked to call you "G"!

My heart is broken and I am still in disbelief that you are no longer with us here on Earth. A piece of me left on Friday, July 27, 2018 when my mom called to let me know you had a massive stroke and were not coming back to us. Everything stood still as I wept. That moment is in my mind forever and I wish I had the power to turn back time and change that phone call. Margie picked me up and we drove over to Paoli Hospital to visit you--one last time. Unfortunately, Margie and I shared a similar situation just 7.5 years ago when we received the news of our dad's death. The car ride was somber yet comforting knowing we had each other.

As we approached your room (room 3024), I saw you laying asleep in the bed. It did not look like you and I had a passing thought that it wasn't really you, but, rather I was called by mistake. As I crossed the threshold, I saw my mom there and was reminded that this nightmare was our reality. Caroline and Marirose joined us soon after (with a phone call from Colleen) in the room and we spent hours talking and laughing about our memories of you--all while you were "asleep" in the bed. I wondered if you could hear us and could feel the love surrounded by you. Aunt Anne, John, Mindy and Molly joined us later in the night to stay with you. As Margie, Marirose and I were leaving, my mom told us to hug, kiss you and say our last words. I watched as Marirose and Margie took their turns, but when it came time for mine, I could not muster up the courage to do it.   It was heart-breaking for me to see one of the toughest women I know laying and there was nothing I could do to change the situation. I knew in my heart, it was just a matter of time before the rest of your body would shut down.  I left the hospital room and quietly said "goodbye". July 28, 2018 is when you took your last breath.

You were a constant fixture in our lives and it's hard to imagine our family gatherings without you. I have so many memories from childhood to most recently our 4th of July celebration. You were not the type of Grandmom who had a batch of chocolate chip cookies hot from the oven waiting on the counter for us. But you were always there to help with us when my parents needed a sitter, took me to get my driver's license (all while watching my younger sisters), attended every Birthday, Communion, Confirmation, Baptism, and Graduation. Simply put, you were there.

You let your teenage grand-kids stop by with their friends on the weekends for some sodas and snacks. You would sit and talk with us and be engaged in what things were going on in our lives.

You were the Grandmom who purchased and stored cherry cordials for her granddaughter knowing just how much she loved them. I will never forget the Christmas you gave them to me leaking through the package because you forgot to give them to me when you first bought them.

You put Easter candy out at Christmas time...and your laugh when you were called out on such an outrageous (in our minds) act.  Christmas time was such a fun holiday with you. Each year, you would say "I am not having the day after Christmas party" and yet every year, there you were hosting. And you know, I think it's what you loved the most--hosting people at your house.

You were spunky! We always knew the truth with you and nothing was sugar-coated. You did not hide your emotions and did not like bad drivers. I remember one after--I believe I was a freshman in high school--we were in the car with you and someone ran the stop sign...you yelled out "Where did you get your license? Kmart??". I was pretty embarrassed at the time, but it's a memory that makes me smile and laugh now.

Most of all though, I witnessed you demonstrate your love with my three daughters over the past 7.5 years. You welcomed them into your home, attended their milestone events, gave them $1 with each visit and their favorite--holiday socks.

My Christmas shopping will not be the same this year. I will miss buying saltines, Skippy peanut butter and sparking apple cider but above all, your genuine appreciation for a simple gift. What you loved most, was us being around you and remembering you through the years.


There are so many unspoken words and moments yet to be had, but I am so very grateful for the 38 years I had you.

I'll leave you with this Irish Blessing that has always reminded me of you...because even though you were part English--though you did not admit :), you were the most Irish person I have ever met.

May the road rise to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face.

And rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in

the hollow of His hand.

Sophomore year at Cabrini. You were very excited to drop me off.

Christmas 2018

February 2017

With Love,

Kathleen

Life

Life

Today, I left the office and walked for the train a few hours early. As I walked, I felt my throat closing, eyes welling and just an overall sense of panic. In just a few short hours, I will be looking at two grieving parents who lost their 15 month old daughter suddenly and unexpectedly last week. How can I comfort them? Why did this happen to such an innocent child? Why? Why? Why?

As a mom of three young girls, my heart hurts. It's a hurt and ache that is difficult to describe. I'm going to pause and take a few minutes to center myself as I prepare to send my condolences to Matt and Kristie. 

Well, it has been a few days since I attended the Celebration of Life for Teagan Rae.  The composure of Matt and Kristie are etched in my memory. There are heroes in my eyes. They stood their for hours as people came to pay their respects.  They put together an afternoon of food, drinks, chocolates, videos, pictures, memory books and people from every aspect of their life to celebrate the short-lived, but full life of their daughter. In a time of such sorrow, they found the energy to put together a tribute that will forever be in my mind. 

As I listened to the stories Ray shared of Teagan on behalf of Kristie and Matt, my mind started to think deeply of the concept of life. Maybe the simple lesson here is, live with the same joy as a young child. Wake up happy, enjoy simple things such as swinging on swings, climbing a mountain in Colorado and being with our friends and family. Simply enjoy each and every day...the present. Our time on this Earth is not promised therefore; we must make the best of it.

I'm still left with the achy heart and the desire to be a super hero and change this for them. The most I can do is send them all of the love and comfort I can. I'll sign off with the poem that helped me when I was grieving the sudden loss of my dad:

If Tomorrow Starts Without Me

If tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not there to see.

If the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me

I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today. While thinking of the many things we didn't get to say.

I know how much you love me, As much as I love you, and each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too;

But when tomorrow starts without me, Please try to understand, that an angel came and called my name, And took me by the hand

And said my place was ready, in heaven far above, And that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love.

But as I turned to walk away, A tear fell from my eye, For all my life, I'd always thought, I didn't want to die.

I had so much to live for, So much left yet to do, it seemed almost impossible, that I was leaving you.

I thought of all the yesterdays, the good ones and the bad, I thought of all that we had shared, and all the fun we had.

If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while, I'd say good-bye and kiss you and maybe see you smile.

But then I fully realized, that this could never be, for emptiness and memories, would take the place of me.

And when I thought of worldly things, I might miss come tomorrow, I thought of you, and when I did, my heart was filled with sorrow.

But when I walked through heaven's gates, I felt so much at home. When God looked down and smiled at me, From His great golden throne,

He said, "This is eternity, and all I've promised you." Today your life on earth is past, but here life starts anew.

I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last, and since each day is the same way, there's no longing for the past.

You have been so faithful, so trusting and so true. Though there were times you did some things, you knew you shouldn't do.

But you have been forgiven, and now at last you're free. So won't you come and take my hand, and share my life with me

So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart, for every time you think of me, I'm right here, in your heart.

- Author Unknown

To my sweet Amelia

Dear Amelia,

I was so happy to see you before I left for work this morning. You woke up so cheerful and sat with me for a few minutes in the living room. This wasn't a holiday or special occasion so, one that may not stand out in your memory as you grow, but one I want you to know.  I'm writing this so you know on September 27, 2017, you added a bit of sparkle to my weekday morning routine.

As I rode on the train this morning, I thought about your birthday. I remember being moved to my postpartum room shortly after having you (you were already there with your dad).  The nurses were talking about the weather and how it was snowing (lightly) outside. I love snow...it's just so magical. And in that moment of discussion, the magic of snow and a healthy, beautiful girl were linked in my mind.

I view you as magical as snow.  You take on that world with such an inquisitive mind yet fearless and strong.  You love learning about how the world works.

You are magical my Dear Amelia.  Enjoy this beautiful world and never stop asking "why".

XOXO

Lucy: 9 months

Lucy: 9 months!

Lucy is 9 months old and cruising through life like a champ. She weight 18lbs 10oz and is 27.5 inches in length. Out of our three girls, Lucy is in the lead by 2 lbs on growth at this age.

Lucy has a smile that lights up the room. She loves people... everyone she sees is blessed by her smile and giggles. She watches with such passion as her big sisters ride bikes, swing on swings, climb monkey birds, read and play. 

The past few weeks she has been focused on learning to walk; she cruises around holding onto to furniture, but daily takes a few unassisted steps.

She loves games. She raised her hands as we say "how big is Lucy?? So big!"  She enjoys clapping and playing peek-a-boo!

We can't believe how fast time is going...we love every minute with our Lucy and love watching her grow and develop.

In happiness,

Kathleen 

To my last baby...

Dear Lucy,
I write this post as I sit with you asleep in my arms. It's a peaceful moment and one I want to document for you. The past few days have been emotional for me as I started to see signs of the need to supplement with formula in your diet. Your nursing sessions and  my milk supply has decreased during pumping sessions. I knew this day would come...I just didn't expect it for a few more months.

My heart aches and it full of mother's guilt. I tried so hard to achieve a full year of breastfeeding with you.  The demands of a full time career (outside of being a mom) with a constant need to be on the go and in meetings has added challenge into maintaining several pumping sessions while away from you.

Life doesn't always go as you plan and you will constantly be thrown curve balls. How you manage them is what is important. Making the decision to supplement is what is important for you at this time.

XOXO

Lucy Anna Thomas

Lucy Anna Thomas: Baby Thomas 3

This is the story about how we welcomed our third daughter into our family. Tim and I welcomed Lucy Anna into this world on Tuesday, December 20, 2016 at 8:30 am. She entered this world weighing 6 pounds, 14 ounces and measured 19.75 inches in length. She is just as beautiful as her big sisters.

The days and weeks leading up to my planned c-section were mainly uneventful. Around Thanksgiving, I started experiencing Braxton-Hicks contractions and thought for sure I'd go into labor early as I did with Amelia and Clara. Lucy had other plans 😊.

I woke up early the morning of the 20th (well I  hardly slept). Tim's mom arrived around 515am and we left for the hospital shortly thereafter. Tim wanted a coffee so, we stopped at Wawa. I enjoyed the quiet and still neess of the cold December morning. I knew this would be my last baby so, I was sure to take in every moment as we prepared for Lucy's birth.

I checked in at the front desk and was escorted to the labor prep room. I met my nurse and we bonded over our name as it's not very often I meet another Kathleen. She asked a series of questions, hooked me up to the monitors and informed me at 7am there would be a shift change. Tim and I had been through this before so, we felt comfortable with the upcoming procedure.


At 7am in walked nurse Sharon. I recognized her right away. She was my postpartum niesw with Clara. I remembered liking her a lot and felt at ease. Dr. Chastney arrived right on time at 745am to review the section with me. With his very social attitude, he joked about the John Carlin skit of  the stars singing all I want for Christmas by Mariah Carey. For any of you who know Dr. Chastney, you can picture his bubbly personality discussing this.

After my prep, I walked down the hall to the OR. Walking myself to the OR was a new experience for me. With my previous sections, I went into labor and naturally. Walking to the OR seemed surreal. So, here I go...just stepping up on a step stool ready to have my belly cut open. It was cold!!! Even though I had two other sections, I was scared! I kept trying to practice my deep breathing and picture myself on a mountain. I visualized chatting with my dad. Visualizing this calm and peaceful scene put my mind at ease. 

Once they were setup to being the procedure, Tim entered the room. He held my hand and we talked about all the amazing things we have going on in life. It was a nice and memorable. Having a c-section is nerve wracking...it's a major surgery and with each one, I needed Tim to help me focus on other things. 

And then at 830am I heard " she is absolutely beautiful! You guys made an adorable little girl". Words cannot do that moment justice. It was amazing. After Lucy was cleaned up, Tim left with her and the nurse to get situated in the postpartum room.


Shortly after my procedure was completed, I was wheeled to the recovery room where I wad reconnected with Lucy and Tim. Tim's parents were taking care of Amelia and Clara for the day so, Tim and I were able to relax a bit and enjoy the time with our new little one.  I remember on Thursday a.m. I woke up and I turned on some Christmas music and I knew that it was going to be a great day I knew that if I set my mind to be positive and to avoid the external stressors the day would be great there was nothing I could stand in the way. Clara spent the afternoon with me and Lucy. We enjoyed watching some Christmas movies, playing games and eating cookies. 

I was discharged on Friday my body was physically healing well I walked out of the hospital (without a wheelchair) with Clara, Lucy and Tim and we drove to Hillside to pick up Amelia.  Our life as a family of five was beginning.

Christmas 2016 was very merry for us. We are excited to watch Lucy grow, learn and be a part of our family.

xoxo,

Kathleen

It's So Hard To Say Goodbye...

It's So Hard To Say Goodbye...

"How do I say goodbye, to what we had the good times that outweigh the bad I'll wave them back..."  The lyrics of Boyz II Men popped in my head as I pulled up to my childhood home in Upper Darby for the very last time on August 17th. After much debate, I made the decision to go visit my childhood home for a little bit of closure. After my dad's sudden death I didn't go to Upper Darby very much... I guess just the thought of going there without him there was too much for me to handle so I avoided the house altogether. 

So I made the last minute decision to go the night before my mom's move. I arrived in the late evening with my three daughters in tow. I wanted them to be there and see the house for the very last (and for the Lucy, the first) time.  I walked around the house and thought back to some fond memories of major events: moving there in 4th grade, block parties, grade school and high school friends, college, my wedding day, etc... When I visited the basement, it was odd not seeing all of my dad's tools, yard equipment, etc...the only remaining item was an old workbench that we've actually got for my grandparents house. But, when I closed my eyes, I could picture my dad standing there at his table saw.

The house was more than four walls, a floor and a roof. It was a home to me...a safe place. A place filled with memories both happy and sad. I remember the friends (both lifetime and season friends)  that were a big part of my life during those seasons. They are apart of my past and a part of who I am.  I can vividly remember the day we moved in to our home June, 1988 when Melissa and Patrick were anxiously waiting outside to met the "new" neighbors.  My sisters and I were excited to have friends around our age to play with. I remember many nights of bike riding, tag and kick the can with the neighbors, my wedding day and unfortunately, the day I was called home to find out my dad was gone. Those are same of the memories that are wrapped into the place we called home.

231 you always be in my heart thank you for giving me a home. I'll leave this blog with one final quote my favorite quote from the movie Hope Floats..." Beginnings are scary endings are usually sad but it's the middle that counts the most.  If you find yourself at a new beginning just give hope a chance to float up because it will."

XOXO,

Kathleen

They say its your birthday...

Happy 63rd Birthday!

Happy 63rd Birthday to my Dad in Heaven!  Not a day goes by without us missing him.  

This post is a way to share the memories of my dad with my daughters. I don't want this post to be a long rant about how tough life can be but rather focus on the positive of it.  Yes I do miss my dad dearly and grieving his death has definitely given me different perspective. It has now been six years-six and a half to be exact and as I write this post I realize that I have many blessings and the blessings stem from my childhood. I wouldn't be the person I am today without the guidance that I have gotten from my dad. Was he perfect? Was he the president of the United States?  Was he a saint?  The answer to all those questions is no, but to me he was someone I admired.  Every morning I wake up and I thank God that I have today I often think that my dad woke up on January 24th 2011 and knew it might have been his last unfortunately I'll never know for sure. But today on his 63rd birthday I smile and I think of the moments with peace and comfort.

I remember our drives to the Poconos. I remember meeting him for lunch just a few years back. I remember him ordering and iced tea and a hot dog from the vendor carts as we sat on a bench outside of the University of Pennsylvania and talked about life. I remember in college when I realized it did not want to be a bio major anymore and I was afraid to tell my dad because for 21 years I spoke about being a doctor he didn't discourage me and he didn't make me feel bad about my decision to change what he did was he helped me he went with me to meet with my College advisor and determine the best path two graduating and having sex with life I remember my dad always being there when I needed him most I spent two and a half years of going to classes downtown after work and to make my commute in the nighttime hours safe he would call me and talk to me as I walk to 30th Street Station I remember my last class on December 7th 2010 I was in a rush to get to the train station and I didn't call him until I had gotten there and he said to me Kathleen I was really hoping you would have called because I wanted to pick you up tonight and drive you home this may seem like such a small minor thing for me that was enough. I didn't need material things in life what I needed was to know that someone cared and that is exactly what I got from my dad those are the exact things that I mentioned above that I learned to carry with me as a parent what I want to do is provide my girls with the life knowing they have parents that are always there no matter what so today as we celebrate my dad's 63rd birthday I've raised a glass and I celebrate the hard-working man the life that he had the life that he create it for all of us and I say thank you for him the things I have today would not be possible.

Till me meet again, Papa xoxo

A Final Farewell

A Final Farewell

In just a few short hours we will all say goodbye to Phil's hill--a place that holds the very heart and soul of our dad. For as long as I can remember, my dad talked about owning a place on a mountain. He enjoyed wildlife, fishing, hearing birds chirp, trees and the quietness of the mountains.




Summer 2012

He finally got that wish in 1999/2000 when he purchased 10 acres of land in the mountains north of the city of Lock Haven, PA. he spent many weekends travelling 4 hours to build the cabin he wanted. In December 2010, he took his last trip there (unknowingly), locked up the house for the winter with hopes to return in early spring and finish building the inside.  Spring 2011 came, the tree leaves bloomed, the grass grew, the birds chirped, the animals came out of hiding, but Phil did not return. Left behind were tools, coffee beans and mugs, boots and other miscellaneous items.

Stream by Phil's Hill

Over the past four years, it was visibly difficult for any/all of us to visit Phil's hill. I know for me, the thought of moving his tools and other belongings was too much to deal with emotionally. So, I chose to avoid everything including his mountain property. I went once in the summer of 2012 and being there was too much-I left without a desire to go back and face the reality. My mom recently made the decision that it was time for us to sell the place and move forward with positive and happy memories of the times we spent there.

Last family photo at Phil's hill

This past weekend my sisters, mom and I sat at Phil's hill with a mixture of emotions that ranged from laughing with happy memories of past trips to sadness to have to let go of such a monument of our dad.  This past weekend was special though. It was a special time for us all to bond and hold close our own personal memories of a great man that was lost four years ago. My sister's and I spent Friday sorting through items, selecting which  we wanted to bring back to our own homes and remembering the fun trips we had in the past.

I took as many pictures as I could, listened to the sound of chirping birds, smelled the mountain air, touched each wall of the cabin and  breathed in as much of the present as I could, took one last look around and quietly left. As we pulled out of the driveway, I watched the house fade in the side view mirror,  I quietly sad goodbye to my dad.

Ideas for the house

Ideas for the house

Cardinal

Siblings

Last view of the hill

Many of you may not understand the pain and heartache that follows the death of a parent--it's unexplainable. Visiting Phil's hill one last time gave me the opportunity I have been looking for the past four years--the opportunity to formally say "goodbye". Till we meet again Papa... XOXO.

Phil happy as can be on his new mower

Note: Written July 2015.

January: a time of change

A Time of Change...

January is the month when we are ready to take on the new year by setting goals and resolutions. It's the month when we look at the year past...happy times, sad times, negatives and positives and hope to foster change for the year ahead.

January 2011, I set three goals for myself: enjoy being a first time mom, lose the baby weight in preparation for my sister's spring time wedding and achieve some DIY home projects. I was the stereotypical 30 year old woman.  The first few weeks of January were not easy. The holidays were over, everyone was back at work and I was home--alone--with a newborn (with the occasional visitors) but, I knew this was my "new" life and I couldn't complain. I had a bundle of joy who stole my heart.

On Monday, January 24th, my resolutions and goals faded away when I received the unexpected news of my dad's death. A death that has left a heartache that could (and would) not be healed. Over the past four years, I have dreaded the month of January. I wake up each year on January 1st filled with anxiety and fear. I spend each day wishing I could hide in a corner until the month is over.  I go through each day in a daze and asking myself if there was something I could have done to change the outcome and think about would I would say, if I could talk to my dad one more time.

Half way through 2014, I promised myself I would change. I knew it wasn't healthy for me to continue life in such unhappy mood. I promised myself I would change the way I viewed the world and the death that has changed me. As the year drew to a close, I knew the biggest challenge would be the month of January. Slowly, I am getting over the anxiety of fear that I have felt the past three years during the month of January.  I have hope and faith that in time I will continue to heal.

It's amazing how in the blink of an eye, life can change forever. I wake up each day and remind myself that I need to live for that specific day: to do my best at work, to be thankful for my husband, for the two little girls that call me mom, my family and so much more.

There are two things my dad always said and I will carry with me each day: "Be thankful you woke up today because you never know when it will be your last. " and "Life's a piece of shit, so, always look on the bright side of life!" (He loved that song from Mighty Python").

 Today, there will be tears, but through them, I will promise to look at the bright side of life.

Kathleen

“If ever there is tomorrow when we're not together.. there is something you must always remember. you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. but the most important thing is, even if we're apart.. I'll always be with you. ~Winnie the Pooh

Amelia: glasses and preparing for a tonsillectomy

Amelia with her new pink glasses!

Amelia has had quite an eventful summer thus far. Over the past year we noticed Amelia snoring heavy during the night and tired (even though she had a lengthy sleep) during the day. We suspected enlarged tonsils so, we took her to an ENT at CHOP early spring for an evaluation evaluation followed by a second opinion a few weeks later at DuPont.  Both doctors concluded her tonsils were enlarged and needed to be removed.

While we were giving ourselves time to process the idea of surgery another curve ball was thrown our way.  On Sunday, June 1st Amelia woke up with crossed eyes and told us she saw two of everything. This was the first we notice anything with her eyes so, we quickly took her to the local ER. At the ER an evaluation was completed and inconclusive. The doctor did not see any damage to the eye and recommended we follow up with a pediatric ophthalmologist. 

The next day I called the pediatrician and asked for Amelia to be evaluated before calling an ophthalmologist. During the appointment, the doctor conducted a series of test and did notice her eye turning inward. Due to the sudden onset, he wanted to rule out any type of neurological issue.

On Friday June 6th, Tim and I took Amelia to DuPont for an MRI of the brain. The doctors administered a moderate sedation and monitored her closely (due to her enlarged tonsils and possible apnea). Amelia was a great little patient and recovered quickly.Words can not explain how I felt that day. BUT the staff at the hospital were amazing. We thought we had to wait till Monday for the results, but as we were driving home, the nurse from our pediatrician's office called and told us the scan was clear!

So, next up was a visit with the ophthalmologist. He evaluated Amelia and explained that she is far sighted and her eyes have been straining which resulted in her crossing of the eyes. So, we went shopping for glasses. Of course the options were limited as Amelia only wanted pink :)

Amelia loves having her nails painted

Once Amelia was settled with her glasses, we made the appointment for her tonsillectomy on 8/11/14.  On Monday we will venture to DuPont hospital for the procedure. We have faith the doctors, nurses and staff will take good care of our little girl. We are also hoping for a speedy recovery. On the plus, she'll have a ice cream only diet for a few days!

Amelia in OCMD

Amelia, Clara and I getting ready for a Target shopping trip!

Clara: Happy 1st birthday

Dearest Clara,

I just laid you down to sleep, your very last night asleep as a "baby". Tomorrow is your first birthday. Tears fell as I put you down...it's a bittersweet moment. I can't believe you are already one!! The past year, I have been your everything. Your source of nutrition and comfort. I will miss those quiet moments in the middle of the night when it was just the two of us.

While, I'm sad to see those times go, I am happy for the times ahead. This will be the year your personality continues to develop. I am already so proud of the loveable girl you are today. My heart melts when you hug me and kiss my cheek and when I hear you babble "I love you" (I know that is what you are saying).

So, sweet baby girl, I love you with all of my heart. Thank you for the joy you have brought us and making us a family of four.

Love you always.

Clara: nine and ten months

Where has the time gone? I can't help but ask myself that question when I think about how quickly the past three months have gone.

Clara transitioned from crawling, to walking with assistance to walking independently the past three months.

She continues to babble and says (attempts) momma and Amelia. She loves to sing and dance especially when the Frozen soundtrack is playing on the radio! 

Tim is her world and squeals in delight when he walks through the door. 

During the day she loves to eat little crunchies, puffs, oatmeal, yogurt and veggie pouches. 

She loves to play with the kitchen set, farm, blocks and Legos! 

And her favorite is bigger sister, Amelia :)

Clara:Seven and Eight months

Seven and Eight months

Clara has really grown this past month. She is crawling all over the place, standing at her activity table, walking a few steps while holding on and babbling away!

Those top two teeth and trying to pop through!

She spent the month of November enjoying the leaves and crisp fall air. Her very first Thanksgiving was spent with the McCarthy clan, Papa T and Nana at our house.

Clara enjoyed the month of December with many fun activities: her first visit to Santa, celebrating her big sister's birthday with a penguin-themed party and a visit to Hershey park and Christmas!  One not-so-fun thing was her first double ear infection. After trying a second antibiotic, she was on her way to feeling better :)

Clara:Six months

Six months

November 15, 2013

Clara celebrated her first Halloween as a lady bug this year. She spent the evening with her sister and the majority of her Thomas cousins. 

Clara has been on the move the past few weeks. She rolls around to get to her toys and has been trying to crawl. And within the past week, she has been attempting to pull herself to a standing position. 

She is continuing to explore the tastes a variety of foods.  The doctor gave us the go ahead with soft cheeses and snacks!

Clara has her two bottom teeth! Will she get her top two in time for Christmas??

Stats:

Weight: 15.8lbs

Height: 26.75 inches

Happy 3rd Birthday Amelia!

Dear Amelia,

Tomorrow is your 3rd birthday! You have grown into such a beautiful, smart, fun, caring and imaginative young girl. You arrived at 9:06am on Saturday December 18th, the moment my life changed for the better. You remind me daily how precious life is.

This past year you have taken on the role of big sister. You did so without jealousy or anger. You welcomed Clara with open arms and enjoy teaching her about life.

Thank you for being a wonderful daughter. I look forward to watching you grow this year.

Love Always,

Your Mamma :)

Clara:Five months

Five months

 

Clara has mastered the ability to situp on her own. She loves sitting on her mat playing with her toys. She's still very happy and loves razzing and gooing at us. We are teaching her how to say mama, dada and aya (Amelia's nickname).

In addition to speech, we are working on teaching her how to crawl. We've been putting her in the crawling position and having her reach for objects. It won't be long now till she's mobile.

She has added pears, apples and squash to her diet. Later this week we plan to try carrots. I was making the baby food myself, but it's been tough. There are not enough hours in the day. I'm left with the guilt of wondering if I am a bad mom for buying store bought baby food :/.

On October 5th she enjoyed a fun day with her cousins (Thomas side) and met tons of extended family.

We think she may be teething these past few weeks. She's been a little cranky, drooling and hasn't been sleeping well. I hope this is temporary. I miss my 8 hours of sleep.

School days!

School Days!

 

I'm still trying to wrap my head around the fact that my sweet little baby girl is now in school. It seems like yesterday I held her for the first time.  I never fully understood the advice "enjoy every minute because they grow too quickly" until now.  My gosh, it really is the truth. 

We enrolled Amelia in the Terrific 2's program at Trinity Preschool of Berwyn. She had her first official start of school on Tuesday September 10th. Miss Independent left my side as soon as we got to the door of the school. She yelled a "cheerful" bye and waved as she ran into the building. Little did she know the first day, parents were asked to stay :) As I watched Amelia that day from a far, I knew she'd be okay.  She listened very intently to the teachers, she was happy to swing on the swings and slide down the slide. She enjoyed playing with the toys and making a craft. She giggled when she saw a photo of herself hanging on the wall in her classroom.

As I watched her navigate her classroom, I thought back to my dad and his reaction when he first met the tiny little baby on December 18, 2010. "There is something special about Amelia!" That is what he would tell everyone when he told them about his new granddaughter. He was certainly right. She is a special little girl. She will continue to amaze me daily and be spectacular in this world. 

On another note--we took the girls to the beach on September 7th. Words cannot describe how much Amelia loved it! She enjoyed the water, sand and boardwalk. She has the best time flying a kite with her daddy :)

Clara: Four months!

Four months!

Clara officially hit the four month mark on August 30, 2013. She has been growing and developing well these past four months.  First and foremost, she absolutely loves watching and playing with her big sister, Amelia. Clara watches intently as Amelia runs around the room and she squeals with delight. Lately, Amelia has been playing peek-a-boo and Clara bellows with laughter. When Clara sees Amelia running, she starts kicking her feet really fast. It won't be long before she is crawling after her big sister!

Sisters

Clara can roll front front to back and back to front. She loves grabbing and playing with her toes. Over the past few weeks she has learned to sit up. She's been able to sit for about 2-3 minutes at a time. 

She began eating solids. So far she has tried oatmeal, bananas and peas. She's adjusting well. 

First solid food experience

We took a trip to the beach on Saturday, September 7th. She enjoyed sitting on the sand, but did not like the wind very much. We'll try again next year :)

She is one of the happiest babies I have ever met and we just love her to pieces :)

Four month stats:

Weight: 14.5 pounds

Length: 25.5 inches

Hanging Out

Daddy and his girls