On Working Late Last Night

Dear Lucy -

I worked later than usual last night. I had dinner with one of my favorite clients. I just want you to know that I only did it because Dad was home with you and I knew you were happy to spend time with him. When I got home, we cuddled. Dad kept you up just for us. I held you for a while and then you awoke. You were not happy, though I'm guessing it was just because you were hungry and not because you were angry with me. Either way, you felt better quickly and went to sleep shortly thereafter.

I missed you all day, but knew that we would have the next (at least) six nights to spend together. I cannot wait to see you in 9 hours.

Have a great day with your grandma and get excited...just two more days until you meet Joanna!

I love you,
Mom

All About Me: Lucy Hannah, 3 Months Old

Luce!

Happy 3 months!! Wow, this has been a big month! You are way more alert and expressive than last month - perhaps you can even read this post :). Here's the scoop on you, Miss Lucy (you are soooo cute!).

1. We use the swing only as a crutch now for your fussiest times only! You're so alert and interested in what's going around you, we think you're better off learning than sleeping (which is what happens when you're swinging).
2. You started grabbing toys this month! Your dad really worked with you all month on developing this skill and now you're (almost) a master! It has been so exciting to watch.
3. This month the doctor gave you permission to go into public more often. We went to Northbrook Court a couple times, to FedEx, to Cleveland, to Eggsperience/Meli/Once Upon a Bagel, to my office and even to the grocery store.
4. You slept through the night for the very first time on the 26th (one day after your 3rd month was complete). Daddy and I were THRILLED! (Secretly I know I will miss you in the middle of the night.)
5. You really enjoy colorful books and we love reading them to you!
6. You can find me across the room. Easily.
7. You won't take your eyes off the television. Consequently, we're watching a lot less!
8. You still HATE tummy time, but are clearly making progress. You also LOVE standing up!
9. You smile most often in the mornings. You LOVE when we change your diapers.
10. I think you're a righty while Dad thinks you're a lefty. Time will tell!!
11. You still have greyish/blueish eyes.
12. You are transitioning out of your 0-3 month clothing. I packed it up for your little sister or brother. I'm not going to lie, I cried. You're already getting so big and so fast!!
13. At 3 months you weigh in at 10 lbs and 13.5 ounces...you are trending perfectly and continue to be in the 10th percentile.
14. You drink 4.5 oz. - 5 oz. 6-8 times a day. You still get a little frozen breast milk in your bottles. It was so emotional for me to stop pumping, but the supply did not meet the demand. If you ever breastfeed any of your babies, you'll know why giving it up was so hard. Words really can't explain it.
15. YOU SMILE A LOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
16. You sort of tried to laugh with your father a week ago. We have it on video! Ask us to see it.
17. Your favorite outfit is a simple pair of jeans, white tee shirt and your grey headband.
18. You had your first babysitter and overnight baby sitter (non family) ever. Christine babysat on a Monday night so that Daddy and I could have some quality time together and Cari babysat overnight while we had a little get-away! You were "perfect" for both.
19. Adam still loves you a lot and wakes up in the middle of the night to feed you with me.
20, I start your days with "It's a Beautiful Day" by U2 and play you the Will I Am song from Sesame Street at least once a day.
21. Most people say you look EXACTLY like Daddy (but prettier).
22. You try to hold your own bottle!
23. You are wearing size 2 diapers now!

I'm sure I'm forgetting so many new events, but as I remember them, I'll add them on!

I love you more today than yesterday,
Mommy

PS - Check out the photo below. You've been trying to stand since your first month. I hope you always want to stand up for yourself, baby girl.

Don't Cry Because It's Over...Smile Because it Happened

Dear Lucy,

I waited all week to write you this note. Had I written it earlier, you would have read a sad note about how much I will miss our days together. Instead, three days later, I have a little more perspective and write from a place of gratitude.

Thank you for the last twelve weeks. While we have the rest of our lives to spend time together and bond, those days meant the world to me - they were just about mom and daughter. Some of my favorite memories felt like the most frustrating days of my life! Remember the time you cried so hard that we sat on the washing machine for an hour to make you stop? What began as a 24 hour period (who even knew what time it was) of begging you to sleep has quickly transformed into a day of trying to keep you awake so we can play longer.

I am back at work now, working to help your father afford a life that we dream for you - I want you to have anything and everything. I'm working hard to give you the chance to play where you want, learn what you want and one day study at any institution that is lucky enough to have you. I am working so we can go on vacation together, so that you can entertain your hobbies more often (horseback riding? Sure! Tennis? You got it!). I am working because your father and I are a team, challenging ourselves to give you even more blessings than we were given (you'll do the same thing when you're a parent, Lucy). And of course, I am working because I love my job and am dreaming more and more about where I want my career to go. One day I will explain it all to you.

I miss you every single day, every single hour. Rest assured, my love, that while I work hard, I've got one eye on my clients and the other on the clock, awaiting my Lucy/Daddy/Adam time - the BEST part of my day.

There is no need to cry, let's just smile because it happened.

See you tonight. I love you.
Mom

Our Last Day!

Don't Wait Up!

Last night marked the conclusion of our week-long Valentine's Day! Jason and I spent it alone, without precious baby and dog. We left them in great hands with Grandma Sandy in charge during the first shift and Aunt Cari taking over for the last 14.5 hours (but who was counting?).

Jason and I checked into the hotel (thanks to Aunt Michele!) around 5. We threw down our things and walked to Millennium Park to check out the Bean and the new lights shining upon it. We then waited in a half hour line to get to the top of the Hancock for a couple cocktails (worth the wait when you're with someone you love). By the time we got to the 95th floor, we called to change our dinner reservation at Capital Grille to 9:30. We met a great couple at the bar and had much needed romance at dinner. Hand in hand, we made it back to the hotel for a good night's sleep! 

Meanwhile back home, our little ballerina was busy-busy going on a walk and doing her thang. Cari sent photos (THANK YOU). All of her smiles gave us amazing peace of mind knowing that there was no rush home - she was having a blast. And so, we walked to brunch & enjoyed our time together. 

When we arrived home, we were greeted by a happy dog, spotless home and beaming baby. And they were greeted by a couple really in love. :)

PS - Lucy and I had an extensive conversation the other day! It was awesome. Girl likes to talk (like her mama).

PPS - Lucy met cousin Becky yesterday!! She was so excited to spend time with one of Mom and Dad's favorite people. Thanks to Cousin Becky for the fabulous gifts!

Take Your Love to Work Day

I had a doctor appointment early in the morning, so Lucy and I stopped by the office on our way (it is on the same block) so that I could show Lucy where I will be thinking about her next week. She was such a natural, picking up the phone, charming my boss and taking care of business. I was happy that she was able to see my office.

Lucy's new best friend

At the appointments afterward, she made friends with the receptionist and walked around with her during my entire appointment. As I sat awaiting the doctor, I could see Lucy pass by with the nice woman, filing folders, showing patients their room and finally sleeping on her chest. Another fun day with my babe...

Lucy and Steve

Lucy's first day at work

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Our Baby Valentine

Lucy,

Happy First Valentine's Day! We LOVE you. We love getting to know you everyday, watching you grow and learning more about who you are. You are a new part of our wonderful family; one that has filled our hearts with pride and more joy than we ever knew possible. We love you today and every other day, too. It just keeps getting better and better...

Love, Mommy and Daddy
PS - Today we did our first art project together! (See below.)
PPS - Thanks for helping me surprise Daddy this week. We had a great Valentine's Day because of it! Look how exhausted you were after the crafts and your big dinner:)

Our Weekend With Aunt Laurel!

We spent the weekend with one of my oldest and closest friends in the whole world. On Thursday afternoon, Laurel came in just to meet you, Lucy. We did so many fun things like grocery shop, go on errands, brunch, nap...and listen to Baby Girl Bohrer cry...and cry. (Aunt Laurel still loves you!)

On Friday, we ran errands in a blizzard. It was the first time that you were outside to see the snow live! We were so excited that you and Adam dressed up like snowflakes in honor of the milestone!

We said goodbye to Aunt Laurel on Sunday, following a night of adult fun (Daddy stayed home with you), which was much needed! Note: You have clearly found your hands. These days you try to put the whole thing in your mouth. You also are making amazing eye contact. We are trying to do as much tummy time as possible now...you are accepting it more and more everyday.

This Magic Moment

I was just feeding you in your room. It was your father's "turn," given that it is weekend, but I insisted. Today marks the end of the second last week before I go back to work (whoa, what a mouth-full). I miss our days together already.

Your Dad walked into the room to be sure that I didn't want him to help. You were a pleasure and all I needed in that moment. As he walked out of the room and started dinner with Laurel, he told me something that made me smile. "She really loves you," he said.

"You are clearly bonded," he told me. I knew it, but it felt so wonderful to hear. "How so? Tell me more. Why do you say that?" I needed to know everything. It was simple a simple message with an overwhelming response.

As your dad quietly closed the door, you drank your milk and I gazed at my baby.

It was a magical moment.

Lucy's First Shopping Trip

Now that the doctor has given Lucy the go-around, she has been out and about and enjoying new sites. One of the first trips was to Northbrook Court. At Lord and Taylor, I thought Lucy was the happiest I had ever seen her! She was all smiles, looking at new colors and objects with eyes wide open! (She wanted a dress, but I told her to wait until she fits in 3-6 month clothing first!)

 Then came Macy's and she done! Crying is an understatement! It may have been because she wanted her first shopping experience to be with Grandma Sher or Aunt Michele!

I had to make one last stop of Lucy, of course!

After all that, we went home and Lucy's napped. Afterward, we went to Joey Goodman's to say hello. Joey continues to be the funniest child.

Dr. Kindall Gives Great News!

We just got home from the cardiologist. it was a big appointment because month two is when symptoms of congestive heart disease show signs of failure. We were told to expect this month to be the one where she likely goes on meds and start the talk of surgery.

Lucy had a "perfect" report. She is growing EXACTLY as she should be, breathing the right way and basically acting as if she doesn't have any VSDs. While we usually would return in a couple weeks, this time we won't go back to the cardiologist for two whole months (she will still go bi-monthly, i'm guessing to the ped). There is a real chance of no surgery, though it would be a unique situation given Lucy's heart.

GREAT DAY! WE'LL KNOW WAY MORE IN TWO MONTHS.

Oh, and she can go in public now!! woo-hoo!

PS - Right now Luce is napping in her crib, likely dreaming about how much she loves life...she's a very happy baby!

PPS - She now weighs 9.14!

Cleveland ROCKS!

The three of us made great timing, arriving around 6 PM. We only made four brief stops - two of which were to yank Adam off the CAR SEAT and chain him up to the front seat. He loves his Lucy! One of the stops involved a breathing check to make sure my Sleeping Beauty was okay - she did not make a peep.

Grandma Sherry and Grandpa Bruce welcomed us with open arms. Needless to say, the entire week involved showing Lucy off to some of the people that I love most. Lucy met Caroline, Amy, Aunt Margie, Uncle Harold, Rita, Bruce, Hannah, Craig, Rachel, Brittany, Josh, Tammy, Sydney, Drew, Alex, Julie, Rochelle, Susan, Kevin, Ashley, Scarlet, Stephanie, Jeff, Margie Rotman, Diane, Katie, Michelle, Brian, and more. What a labor of love.

Lucy wants to move to Cleveland. I told her it is not possible. We'll go every other month instead.

Lucy developed tremendously while in Cleveland. She smiled much more often, grabbed something for the first time (still not sure if it was on purpose) and said her first words, "I miss Daddy." Well, all but the last is true.

It was the first time that I did not feel like a teenager in my home. As I held Lucy in the mirror of the room I grew up in, I felt just that...grown up. It made me think about all the trips that I took to NJ to visit MY mom's childhood home. I wondered if my mom felt like I did. And then it dawned on me...Mom and I often watched "I love Lucy" before bed in HER old twin size bed.

Here are some highlights from Lucy's first trip "home." I hope she loves Cleveland as much as I loved NJ.