Kickin' it Landis

Showered by Family

2012-02-15T13:54:00.000-08:00

Last weekend Dale's aunts Penny and B.Jo threw me a wonderful shower. We had great food, tons of laughter, and I was spoiled with gifts.

Dale and I are finally getting a boy and that means that it's time for bugs, snakes, and lizards. For those of you that know us at all you are not surprised one bit by the crib bedding we chose...

Now that's AWESOME huh?!?!

It was such a beautiful shower and so neat to share the new baby boy with the family. Thanks Aunt Penny and Aunt B.Jo.

Showered by Friends

2012-02-15T13:43:00.000-08:00

My dear friend Julia threw me a fabulous baby shower! And she made it just precious in every way.

Look at this adorable cake she made...

And the punch...with rubber duckies of course....

And the coolest diaper cake! Look at this awesome motorcycle...now that's talent!

We played some great games including "do you know your baby food?" (which I won!) and "do you know your baby poop?". Mom was trying really hard to figure that diaper out...

Sam loved celebrating her baby brother Chase! She helped open every present, devoured cupcakes, and even ate some of the baby food.

It was perfect in every way! Thank you Julia!

Lets stimulate labor...

2012-02-14T13:49:00.000-08:00

Today I went in to see my OB. My regular doctor is on vacation so I actually saw Dr. Nathan who delivered Samantha. Chase's heartbeat was 150 beats/min, and my uterus was measuring at 41 weeks due to a big baby, although I am only 39 weeks 1 day. A cervical check showed that I am 3cm dilated and 90% effaced. Since the baby is so large, I'm so uncomfortable, and I'm after 39 weeks the doctor went ahead and stripped my membranes...

It was an uncomfortable procedure but not really painful. The doctor takes his fingers during your cervical check and runs them in between the uterus and the amniotic sac stripping those connective membranes. It releases hormones called protaglandins that can help soften the cervix and stimulate labor. Right now I'm cramping both in my uterus and in my back and feel uncomfortable. So now we wait and see if it works.

I Will Be Here

2012-02-14T09:29:00.000-08:00

Dale and I have been married for 5 1/2 years. We've celebrated 7 Valentine's Days together. Today I wanted to share the song that we had sung at our wedding. It took us some time to find the perfect song and this one was chosen...

I Will Be Here by Steven Curtis Chapman

Tomorrow morning if you wake up
And the sun does not appear,
I will be here.

If in the dark we lose sight of love,
Hold my hand and have no fear,
‘Cause I will be here.

CHORUS
I will be here when you feel like being quiet;
When you need to speak your mind, I will listen.
And I will be here when the laughter turns to crying;
Through the winning, losing, and trying, we’ll be together,
‘Cause I will be here.

Tomorrow morning if you wake up
And the future is unclear,
I will be here.

As sure as seasons are made for change,
Our lifetimes are made for these years,
So I will be here.

CHORUS
I will be here, so you can cry on my shoulder;
When the mirror tells us we’re older, I will hold you.
And I will be here to watch you grow in beauty,
And tell you all the things you are to me;
I will be here.

I will be true to the promise I have made,
To you and to the One who gave you to me.

As sure as seasons are made for change,
Our lifetimes are made for these years,
So I, I will be here.
We'll be together and i will be here.

You can listen to it HERE

These words ring true in my heart. I love you Dale Landis...I will ALWAYS be here!! Happy Valentine's Day!!

39 weeks!

2012-02-13T20:12:00.000-08:00

Today I turned 39 weeks pregnant...only 1 more week and Chase is fully baked!

The last week has been exhausting! I can honestly say that I feel miserable. I am in excruciating pain and ache from head to toe. There are times I struggle even walking. I had a doctors appointment on Thursday and am now dilated to 2.5cm and effaced to 80%. Chase's head is no longer down in my pelvis but is resting on my right hip bone, causing a funny tickle feeling. Contractions have slowed down and I haven't had many this week.

The doctor decided to send me for an ultrasound to check on the baby's size and the amniotic fluid. I'm gigantic and he wanted to see if there was any reason for me to be induced early. At the ultrasound (39 weeks 3 days) the baby was measuring an estimated 9 pounds 3 ounces!! He's huge!! The amniotic fluid is looking great and measuring at 11.5cm (goal is at least 8). Although the baby will continue to gain weight at a rapid pace the doctors didn't feel it medically necessary to induce me early since I was able to deliver Samantha (9 pounds 12 ounces) without any complications.

So at this point I'm hanging in there. I take it a day at a time and only make it through the day with the help of others. I get funny looks when I'm out in public, always asked if I'm carrying twins, and have a severe waddle. Sleeping is hardly happening, my whole body is swollen, my joints are so loose I have been dropping everything (including my soda at Subway this week... embarrassing!), and the lower back pain is unreal. I have another doctor appointment tomorrow (Valentine's day) so we will see what happens. I'll keep you updated...

37 weeks

2012-02-03T14:13:00.000-08:00

So I turned 37 weeks on Monday but waited until today (37 weeks 4 days) to let you know how my OB appointment went. The visit went well. I think I shocked everyone a bit that I'm still hanging in there. The doctor checked my cervix and I am now 2cm dilated and 60 % effaced. The baby has also engaged his head into my pelvic bone and can be felt at a -1 station...

I am experiencing contractions each and every day. Some days its just a few and some days I can go for hours with irregular and painful contractions. My pelvic pain has increased and since the baby is so low I visit the bathroom at least every hour and a half.

I have been super productive at the tail end of this pregnancy. I never 'nested' with either girl, so this relentless desire to get things in order in my house is a whole new feeling. I have scrubbed the couch, washed every load of laundry AND hung it up (this ones for you Aunt Karen), have no dirty dishes, prepared Chase's crib, purged the girls closets and dressers, chopped all my hair off, prepared 6 freezer meals that are ready to be put in the crockpot after he's born, wiped down the cabinets in the kitchen, packed hospital bags for Dale, I, Chase and both girls, stocked our home with shopping necessities, in addition to cleaning walls, floors, and toys up from everywhere. My mom has been a gigantic help and I can honestly say this pregnancy is the most I have ever been prepared. It only took me 3 to get it!! Well maybe soon Chase will decide to grace us with his presence...although if he is half as stubborn as my girls it may be a few weeks. My body would be thankful though if he came this weekend (after my baby shower this Saturday that is!)

Now that's the love of a Daddy!!

2012-02-02T09:28:00.000-08:00

Fun on Wheels

2012-01-29T09:52:00.000-08:00

Samantha got invited to her first big girl birthday party at the roller rink. She had the time of her life!! Here she is standing up for the first time...

It didn't take long before she got her balance and could pose for the camera...

Danielle loved the party too. She giggled and smiled the entire time. There's something about disco lights, crazy rolling kids, and loud music that makes any one year old happy.

Daddy enjoyed himself too and was a sweaty mess from keeping his little girl standing on her 2 feet for laps and laps. What a fun experience!

36 weeks!

2012-01-29T09:09:00.000-08:00

I'm 36 weeks along. We are in the safe zone at this point and if Chase came this week he would not need to stay in the NICU (newborn intensive care unit). At my appointment this week (and I'm now going every week) everything looked great. Chase's heartbeat was 140 and a quick ultrasound showed that he is head down and in the birth position.

Good news...I took my last hormone shot this week!! I'm so glad to have them over with and it is comforting to know that they did their job. I've also been having some contractions this week, some nights so severe that a warm shower was the only way to calm my uterus down. Since I've been contracting my OB decided to check my cervix. I am 1cm dilated and 50% effaced. Looking below you can see that the goal is 10cm dilated and 100% effaced. Since it's my 3rd baby it could happen any day at any moment.

I am starting to show other signs that it's going to be happening somewhat soon. I've lost my appetite and my bowels have changed, I'm nauseous, Chase has dropped lower into my abdomen, along with other symptoms you would rather not read on a blog :) I'm struggling with both girls at home and find it horribly painful to hold Danielle at all. My mom has been over every day this week to help out. She has been AMAZING and such a blessing. Even Dale's mom has helped by taking Sam. Everyday that I can protect poor Chase and keep him inside is another day he gets bigger and more healthy. I'm feeling HUGE and am starting to get the 'are you having twins?' comments out in public. This is what I see...

Now compare that to what I saw at 36 weeks pregnant with Samantha...

Crazy big difference huh?!?! Well until next week...

'Metato"

2012-01-22T09:05:00.000-08:00

There are a few things in life that Samantha just LOVES and Mr. Potato head is one of them. She loves to build him and his entire family and then take their picture...

And some days Metato has had a rough day...

Picture taken by your favorite 2 year old!

But one of her favorite ways to see Metato is on Toy Story 3. Now I'm way overdo with this blog (by months) but since this cute potato has been appearing everyday I thought I would just do it now.

A few months back my good friend Sarah offered us 3 free tickets to go see Toy Story 3 on Ice with her and her family. We had a fabulous time!

And Samantha got to see Mr. and Mrs. Potato in REAL LIFE! Plus they were ice skating (which she has seen Minnie do on one of her movies)! She was sooooo excited.

Even Minnie and Mickey themselves made an apperance!

It was a wonderful time and I'll never forget the cute concern she had if they left the stage for even a minute.

Children's has touched my life

2012-01-22T08:24:00.000-08:00

Seattle Children's Hospital has changed my life. I remember walking through those halls years ago in my nursing clinicals thinking about all the children that have to come to this hospital. I saw itty bitty babies and teenagers. I saw sick little ones and ones that have faced more than I could even imagine in my 31 years of life. I never imagined that I would roam those halls as a parent of a patient. But after Danielle was born I became very used to those decorated floors, colorful elevators, and wall animals. I have been on my knees praising God many times for that Hospital. We live close. We never had to relocate to give Danielle some of the best care in the world. We never had to worry about the experience of the doctors. We always knew that the professionals that touched our daughter were talented, precious, and chosen just for her by God. My life, and especially Danielle's life, will never be the same because of Seattle Children's Hospital. And just as our first year of surgeries has come to a close Children's has begun to change my life in a different way.

January 3rd, 2012 Dale left Providence Regional Medical Center and their Emergency Room and started a new career at Seattle Children's Hospital. He is working in the Outpatient Procedure Center where they do a variety of day surgeries, ranging from endoscopies, colonoscopies, dental restoration, sedated hearing screens, bone marrow aspiration and a whole bunch more. He is working Monday through Friday 7-3:30. God is incredible!!! Not only is Dale loving it but that schedule is made for a family with 3 kids. I haven't had every evening or weekend with him for years! It's amazing to have family dinners. It's wonderful to sleep next to my husband every night. It's incredible to have his help getting everyone to sleep and settled in. It's awesome to not feel like a single mom every week. The benefits are great and so far the commute to Seattle is not an issue in the slightest. I haven't seen Dale like this in quite some time. He is truly enjoying it. He has left the stress and frustrations of the ER and has found a schedule and area that he loves. He isn't riddled with anxiety before a long day and he comes home with energy and excitement to see the girls. Have I said already that God is Good!! And once again Seattle Children's Hospital has changed my life.

It just keeps coming!

2012-01-19T11:38:00.000-08:00

Seattle is gettin' snow!!! And that's an understatement. It has been pouring down for days...like the heavens have opened up and let the snow devour us. Now I know I'm from Colorado and get what real snow fall is but snowfall in Seattle is different. It's wet, it's icy, it's ocean snow, and the whole city isn't prepared. We don't get it that often and the state doesn't even have snow trucks....they just shut down. REALLY....THE CITY SHUTS DOWN! It's crazy. So the girls and I have been stuck inside for days. It's not that I don't like playing in it but I'm HUGE and can't handle everyone. Plus at this point it's so bad that if I were to go into labor I would have to have our neighbor (who we hardly know) watch the girls and call 911 just to get to the hospital. So I'm trying to take it somewhat easy.

We'll Seattle may shut down but unfortunately the hospitals don't so Dale has somehow made it safely to work everyday this week. Praise God for buses and his safety. Yesterday he got to come home early as a surprise to everyone. You can see below he had to park outside the complex so he wouldn't be stuck the next morning.

So since he got home early we decided to bundle up and go out. I have such cabin fever...it was a breath of fresh air. Everyone LOVED it!

This is the first time Danielle has seen the snow. It snowed the day after she was born but with her 5 day hospital stay we weren't taking her out to frolic in it. Then the first snow of this season (a little one at night that didn't stick) she was having her palate repaired. See seemed to love it.

Mackenzie is always a fan of the snow. She dug up some knit hat somewhere and played with it the entire time we were out. It concerned Samantha but her energy just made Dale and I smile. By the time we got home her poor paws were bleeding from running so fast.

Check out Samantha's first snow angel. She didn't really understand what was going on or why in the world anyone would lay in the snow but it sure was cute.

What a fun snow day!! I'm so glad we were able to enjoy God's beautiful creation (and some hot cocoa when we got home)!

2.5

2012-01-19T10:19:00.000-08:00

Two and A Half

Hold her a little longer

Rock her a little more

Tell her another story

(you've only told her four)

Let her sleep on your shoulder

Rejoice in her happy smile

She is only two and a half

For such a little while!

-Author unknown

Samantha is Two and a half and she is such an incredible little person. Her beauty is breathtaking and her personality is fiery but sweet. She is a wonderful daughter!

Here's some more about my precious Two and a Half year old...

She loves Minnie Mouse and all her friends. She loves Blue's Clues, Elmo, and Jungle Book. She loves singing... especially her ABC's. She loves drawing, coloring, playing with Play-Doh, and anything Mr. Potato Head (metato she calls him). She loves to wrestle with Daddy and bake with Mommy. She loves to be outside! She loves parks and slides. She loves having friends...

She loves Thomas the Train, reading books, and listening to bible songs. She has started to rule out naps and only takes one a couple times a week. She loves to sleep with Mommy and Daddy...and her blankie of course. She loves her sister but easily gets frustrated with her. She wants to be independent and do all things on her own. She is potty trained throughout the day but still wears diapers at night. She adores her extended family...especially her grandparents and aunts and uncles.

She likes to sip off my coffee, eat any sweets available and has an intimate relationship to milk. She loves going to church, down to play with Nana's cat Merlin, and over to play with her Oma. She loves to dance and can dance for hours to a song by Hannah Montana. She can throw a great tantrum and scream with the best of them. She can make her way around the computer without any help from us and says she is 'checking her email'. She is over 3 feet tall, wears size 4T, and size 9 shoe.

She has some great sayings..."that's amazing"..."that's a bad idea"..."chicken nuggets and cottage cheese please" (always her request for food)..."baby brother is in my tummy"..."Love you too much". Samantha is stubborn and strong willed but tender and loving. She helps out as much as she can and likes to do things for others. She loves taking pictures and uses my camera nearly every day. She doesn't like having her hair up and fights me when I have to brush it. She loves playing in the bath tub but is so terrified of water in her eyes she fights you when you wash her hair. She talks all the time and loves to be on the phone. She loves animals and even insects (thanks to Daddy). She loves swimming and doing anything active.

She is pretty much incredible in every way and just a joy to those around her. Happy half birthday Samantha!

34 weeks

2012-01-12T16:10:00.000-08:00

It's almost time! In fact this is the week that my labor initially started with Danielle and I ended up in the hospital. Luckily I can say that there have been no real signs that Chase is planning on coming this early but we all know they have a mind of their own. Truth is I think I am ready to deliver at any time... I'm tired of being pregnant but I don't really want another premie.

Now don't get me wrong I love being pregnant! But there is a reason our bodies are not meant to have 3 kids this close together. I am past the point of looking full term and the new question is "are you having twins?" Seriously, I'm only 34 weeks along...how in the world am I going to handle this belly for 6 more weeks...he's gettin BIG. My pregnancy symptoms are much more severe and painful than they were with either girl. I can hardly walk at times and a 10 hour day alone with the girls makes Tylenol, heating pads, Tums, and our bed my best friend. I struggle lifting much of anything and the act of carrying Danielle for long distances makes me just want to curl up in a ball and hold my tummy. The hormones to relax my joints seem more intense than before and I struggle at times even opening a sippy cup cause my fingers can't tighten around the lid. These same hormones have relaxed my hips and I waddle better than most. I'm having issues with my pelvic bone and at times it feels like I'm cracking apart at the middle. Ok...I know it sounds like I'm complaining but I promise I'm not. Just want to document these crazy and hard times. It's amazing how you can have 3 kids and 3 very different pregnancies, including how your body handles everything. I have 2 more progesterone injections left and then I'm free as a bird. I'm hoping Chase will hold off until I'm 37 weeks at least...or the last week in January. I'll keep you all apprised if something happens. Time to start praying for a safe delivery for both Chase and I.

YUM YUM

2012-01-11T11:28:00.000-08:00

While you flip through these pictures and see Danielle devour her 1st Birthday cake I thought I would tell you a little about her...

She's a little thing...wearing 12 month clothing, size 2-3 shoes, and #3 diapers. She is just over 20 pounds. She hates getting dressed and having her diaper changed but is always freezing and can't be left to wander around naked.

She just got her 3rd tooth and is close to getting a few more. She can say mama, dada, oma, mana (samantha), hi, more, nana, and talks all the time.

She takes two very schedule naps and likes to go to bed between 8-9pm. She will no longer fall asleep in anyone's arms but has to be laid in her crib, even if she lets out a few tears. She is a champ and always sleeps through the night.

She can walk up to 10 steps in a row and wants so badly to be able to keep up with her sister. She walks all over the house and is always trying to take more steps.

Danielle loves music and anything that makes noise. She enjoys playing with toys and always wants to be in the middle of what her sister is doing.

She's gotten really good at feeding herself and doesn't seem to be that picky...yet. She always needs to be fed as soon as she wakes up or its not long and she is melting down.

She has bright blue eyes and golden brown hair. She has dimples to die for.

She can drink out of sippy cups and straws. She no longer uses a bottle or seems to even want one. She is very oral and EVERYTHING goes in her mouth.

She LOVES water and is starting to enjoy milk. She loves to wave at people and claps when she is excited.

She loves bath time and dancing. She is finally starting to enjoy car rides and loves being outside.

Happy Birthday Danielle!

2012-01-11T10:53:00.000-08:00

Danielle celebrated her 1st birthday among friends and family at our clubhouse. It was a great party and she loved being the center of attention.

I bought her an adorable onesie with her name embrodered on it from etsy.com and then handmade her the blue and pink tutu. She was the cutest thing ever!

Unfortunately I planned the party to what I thought was around her nap time but as January approached her nap time started to fall right during party time. She held on like a champ though and the sugar from her cake gave her a few more minutes.

Present time was fun. I or should I say Samantha and her friends helped Danielle open all her presents. She was spoiled rotten with toys and clothes. Samantha even got a few gifts of her own....one being Mr. potato head...her ABSOLUTE favorite thing!! Check out that smile..

An adorable name pillow my friend Julia made her. Cute huh?!

It was a perfect party! I felt so loved and excited to see all those who came to support and cherish my little Danielle. What a great way to celebrate!

Danielle's Winter ONEderland

2012-01-11T09:59:00.000-08:00

Dale made these beautiful signs on the computer

On January 7th we threw Danielle a winter ONEderland birthday party for all our friends and family. After weeks of planning and one exhausted momma it came together better than I could have ever imagined. Check out some of these homemade decorations and my delightful baking.

Pull apart cupcakes!!

Melting snowman cookies!

Doughnut snowmen...

Melted snowmen pieces!!

A snowman for each of us!

TOO CUTE HUH?!

One year later!!

2012-01-11T09:42:00.000-08:00

If you were with Dale and I on December 27, 2010 just a few minutes past 6:18pm this is what you would have seen...

Danielle had just been born, been checked out by the NICU nurses and was handed to her daddy. I had yet to see her when this picture was taken and they were on their way to meet me.

Exactly one year later we celebrated our beautiful little daughter with family, pizza, and of course cupcakes. Here she is after diving into the frosting, smashing the cupcake into her mouth and giggling her heart out...

What a crazy year this has been! We love you baby girl...Happy Birthday Danielle!!

A birthday party for Jesus

2011-12-31T17:32:00.000-08:00

I can hardly wait for Thanksgiving to be over. Why you ask, well to decorate for Christmas of course. Give me a few years and I may just scratch waiting for Thanksgiving and enjoy these decorations for longer. Anyways back to the point...Samantha and I were setting up the nativity scene this year and I went through the entire story of Jesus' birth. And that's when she realized that Jesus birthday was on Christmas day. We were celebrating his birthday of all things...and birthdays are her favorite things to celebrate.
"Mantha make Jesus birthday cake?"
"Aww of course baby, we can make him a cake." As my heart melted.
"And party hats?"
"Sure why not. We'll have a big party for Jesus okay." A gigantic smile spilled upon her face and she ran to tell Daddy all about the birthday party coming up. And for the month of December Samantha sang 'Happy birthday Jesus' nearly every day in anticipation.

Sam and I spent Christmas morning making a birthday cake with big candles and a party hat for everyone who was coming. Christmas night after the extended Landis family get together, Dale's immediate family all got together and we threw a party...a birthday party for Jesus.

Uncle Kyle showing off his new french press from REI

Aunt Becky was thrilled about her new Panini maker!

Kickin back enjoying her new sippy cup from Aunt Robin and Uncle Berry

Chip and Dale of course!!!

Cheryl's sister was in from California to celebrate the holidays with her family and along with her came her little puppy Skipper. This puppy has been carted around for DAYS. Samantha hardly lets him down and absolutely loves that he is her size.

A manly Christmas for Dad...a hunting knife, a camo shirt and recoil pad for his rifle

I apologize for there being no pictures of the cake or the singing....it's that pregnancy brain again...it's kickin my butt!

An intimate Christmas morning

2011-12-31T17:04:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning when the girls got up the house started to buzz. Samantha knew it was Jesus birthday but I don't think she fully understood was was all to come. I threw some cinnamon rolls in the oven and we dove into the gifts. We all got spoiled this year.

You can't live in Washington without a cute pair of galoshes

That's one tired mama

I made out this Christmas!!! Seriously, I didn't ask for a single thing and my husband pulled out all the stops. I got fresh water black pearls in earrings, a necklace, and a bracelet. I also got a juicer and a Panini maker!! Jealous yet?!? And I can't forget that my stocking was stuffed to the brim with a spa set and gifts galore!

Samantha was really into opening the presents this year and it didn't matter who they belonged to. I liked getting her help...Danielle on the other hand seemed a bit overwhelmed and couldn't keep up. I tried to save one just for her.

Dale was surprised with a new gun this year! I LOVED seeing the look on his face. Since I hadn't gotten it yet I taped pictures over a cap gun. He didn't realize that the cap gun was even there until the end and that's when the little boy inside came out. I think that cap gun was about as cool for him as a real one....okay, maybe not quite as cool, but close.

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-31T16:49:00.000-08:00

Baby's first Christmas

Every Christmas Eve we spend the evening with my family. This year was super fun! Unfortunately Dale had to work and after last years Christmas extravaganza putting me in labor, this year was low key and wonderful. We started by going out to dinner at Claimjumpers....wonderful food and no cleanup at our house! This going out to dinner thing may be the way to go from here on out. I really enjoyed it! Then we all came back to our house, had dessert, and opened gifts with the girls.

Samantha's very own big girl lip gloss...from Karissa

No hesitation diving into that first present

Danielle walked, or should I say ran, around the house all night using her new walker from Nana

32 Weeks Pregnant

2011-12-31T10:28:00.000-08:00

We're 32 weeks along and baby brother Chase is not so little anymore. He's starting to fill out the uterus and definitely make his presence known. He is such a mover...hardly giving my body a break between the kicks and punches. He is much more active than either of the girls ever were. Here's a picture of what he may look like snuggled up in there (although he is head down)...

We have started to see the doctor every 2 weeks at this point. Things look great. His heartbeat is around 150 and I have had no major complications. I've experienced 2 contractions in the last few weeks (totally normal) and besides that am holding on tight showing no signs of preterm labor. I am getting uncomfortable though and am experiencing quite a bit of hip and pelvic pain. Sleeping is becoming more difficult and even carrying Danielle around is exhausting. I hardly make it a full day without a nap.

It's amazing to be this close. I could have this baby this month in January....strange huh? I'm still shocked at times that we are starting all over with a new baby when Danielle doesn't seem old enough. You know I've done this labor thing twice now in the last 2 years and last night as I was laying in bed I started to get nervous....seriously Heather I think you have this down. But the truth is both deliveries were so different...I mean miles apart. What will this one be like? I really think it comes down to how long I go and how big he is. I'm excited for labor though as a whole. It's empowering as a woman. As painful and traumatic as it can be for my body its awesome to accomplish bringing your children into this world.

They made it on the nice list!

2011-12-26T17:42:00.000-08:00

Leaps and Bounds

2011-12-17T22:48:00.000-08:00

This has been an impressive week for Danielle. It all started on Monday.

Dale and I decided to try Danielle out on a non cleft bottle. She has been making sucking sounds while she feeds and has been suckling while she sleeps. Whoever developed cleft bottles is not a mom to a cleft baby. The air they pump into the tummy, the leaking, the nipple clogging and the overall work they cause the parents is just the beginning. When Danielle's colic was bad Dale decided to get out Samantha's old Dr. Brown bottles which are known to reduce gas bubbles and colic symptoms. The trick now was to make them suitable for a cleft baby who couldn't suck. Danielle was using the pigeon bottle at the time which allows the baby to bite the nipple and milk it with the tongue using a one way valve. Well give Dale 10 minutes and all of the sudden the one way valve was placed in the Dr. Brown nipples and our cleft problem was solved! Not only was our cleft baby using a colic reducing bottle but also a bottle that didn't bring with is a slough of frustrating problems. So back to this week....Monday we removed the valve making it a 'normal' bottle which requires sucking. She took all 8 ounces like a champ and she hasn't turned back! My daughter is sucking on a bottle!!!! What a success story for her palate surgery.

Then on Friday I'm sitting in a chair with Danielle leaning on my legs. She walks around everything these days and had come up to say a quick hello. Dale decided to kneel in front of her and call her to himself. Sure enough to everyone's joy and excitement she took a step towards him. Then she realized what she had done, froze, and went into the crawling position. My little baby took her first step and only at 11 months! I remember the first 5 months of her life and the grief I received from her pediatrician for not giving her tummy time. You try sticking your baby face down with a NAM and letting her bash her face....give me a break Doc you don't live in my world. I always feared though deep down inside that that would set her back. Put on top of that the fact she has had 2 surgeries, been in restraints, and has been about 6 weeks behind developmentally because of her prematurity and you could say we were floored. God is good!! I can't even believe it...I'm just so proud of all she has become.

Then today I get home from a long day a Costco (who in their right mind goes there the weekend before Christmas...I know I'm nuts) and Danielle has another trick to show her mommy. While eating lunch today Dale decided to let her try out a sippy cup that Samantha uses. Danielle loves water and always asks for it while she is eating but refuses to drink any out of a bottle. We have been trying to use a cup but if you have ever let a 11 month old drink out of a cup you know more ends up in the bib than in the tummy. Sure enough she was able to wrap those cute little lips around the spout and SUCK it right out! And on top of that she started feeding herself. Yep you heard me, Danielle was placing those little dissolvable puffs in her mouth all by herself. We haven't been able to feed her any solid food up until now and boy was she ready. It's been frustrating for her I can tell and a 11 month old is normally eating most table food. Well with an open palate we were set a bit behind but this week shes eaten most of our meals, chewed them up (with her 2 small teeth) and loved every minute of it. Now apparently she can put those small morsels in her mouth all by herself.

What a week!! I'm just overflowing with joy and pride. My little girl is growing up so fast and she has overcome so many obstacles. And I'm super thankful for a husband who isn't scared of pushing her a bit. Look at all the things he has got her doing.

The many faces of Danielle

2011-12-07T17:25:00.001-08:00

It's Christmas Time

2011-12-07T17:19:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year when the Christmas lights shine bright and no matter how old you are you feel like a kid again....well for me anyway. So when I heard about a light show at the Botanical Gardens in Bellevue we jumped at the chance of taking the girls.

Sam made it her mission to find as many animals as she could.

Mommy's little helper

Fascinated by the squirel

Gorgeous huh?!

Come on Uncle John lets go that way and do it again!!

Post-op visit

2011-12-07T14:16:00.000-08:00

It's been almost 3 weeks since the surgery and Danielle is back to normal. We had her post-op appointment with the surgeon on Monday and all looks well. The mouth is healed over and the palate looks just as he would like. We can expect some hardening of the palate in the upcoming months but for now she is off restraints and absolutely happy as can be.

At this point we can begin some solid food, which Danielle has been begging for for the past month or two. We need to start with some soft stuff like pasta and steamed veggies but can progress from there. We are restricted from feeding her anything hard or dangerous like chips for a few months. We can also work on getting her from the bottle onto a sippy cup. Since the surgery Danielle has started to try and suck on her bottle. She makes cute noises and tries so hard. She also suckles while she sleeps...something we've never seen her do before. We tried taking out the cleft palate part of the bottle and she got very frustrated since the milk flowed so slowly. It's just going to take some getting used to.

A few days ago I picked a booger out of Danielle's nose. A REAL booger...green and gooey. Now I know you are puzzled at my excitement but Danielle has never had boogers. They all just went straight down. My daughter has a nasal cavity and BOOGERS!! I'm sooo excited. I would much rather pick her boogers than deal with her lunch pouring out for hours.

She is also drooling a ton! And when I say a ton I mean a ton. We could probably ring out 2 bibs a day. Ring them out!! Her tongue hasn't ever had this much stimulation and boy is it activating those salivary glands.

We made it! She healed up perfectly and made it threw the last year with a smile on her face (the most beautiful smile I could have ever prayed for). I wish I could have seen life where it is now the day she was born. God took care of us. He took care of her. Now no more surgeries for years and years to come!

3rd Trimester

2011-12-07T13:55:00.000-08:00

I just entered my third trimester!! This is when it gets exciting because you know it's almost here. I just had to show you these pictures. Here are my 3 pregnancies all in my 28th week. Everyone keeps saying I'm carrying Chase like a basketball and already huge so I had to look at the comparisons. They may be right...

Pregnant with Samantha (my first pregnancy)

Pregnant with Chase (my third pregnancy)

Pregnant with Danielle (my second Pregnancy)

I don't know how I can get any bigger...and I still have 10 more weeks! Oh my goodness!! Chase is doing great! I am still getting my hormone shots and at this point have stopped seeing my high risk doctor. At our last appointment with him they checked my cervix and the baby's growth. My cervix was over 4 cm long (they want at least 3) which means it shouldn't cause any preterm labor. Chase looked great...and boy was he big. I'm already measuring 2 weeks ahead and he is more than 1/2 pound larger than 'normal' gestational size. Needless to say the doctor confirmed that we are going to have another LARGE baby! No surprise, I know, but goodness gracious...one more 10 pounder! I have no issues with PUPPP, anemia, diabetes, high blood pressure or any other of the daunting pregnancy complications. This has been great! Probably the best pregnancy yet. I am however starting to really feel the added tummy and the aches that come with it. Between the pelvic pain, serious heartburn, and everything growing out and out I feel like I should be closer to the due date than 10 weeks. Guess that happens when it's your 3rd baby in row stacked one on top of another. Here's a glance at what Chase may look like if you could peer inside...

We're getting sooo excited to meet you baby brother Chase!!

Gobble Gobble

2011-11-26T17:12:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving 2011 was Awesome!!

We started preparing the night before by baking and decorating cookies to take to the party. The cookies were a hit and were absolutely incredible. Even Danielle was a lover of the frosting...

The boys hung out outside and deep fried some turkeys. They were incredible!! They were by far the most moist turkey's I have ever eaten. The key...inject them with wonderful spices under the skin...YUM!!

Regan (Dale's dad), my brother, Kyle (Becky's husband), Corey (Kyle's brother), Justin (Dale's cousin) and Keith (Cheryl's cousin)...Dale was taking the picture

The girls hung out inside and prepared all the other good tastin' fabulous food. We had a huge spread. It was fun to have everyone together.

Karissa (My future sister in law), me, My sister in law Becky, Cheryl (my mother in law), my mom, Alyssa (Kyle's sister in law) and the kiddos.

We tried to get a cute picture for our Christmas card. This isn't the winner but I liked it and wanted to share one with you. Boy is it tough to get two little ones to smile at the camera. We finally bribed Sam with a cookie (shhhh...don't tell anyone)

The first time you have ever seen a palate on our precious Danielle.

And the cutest picture of the entire day....the turkey we cooked once we got home from the party...

One week post-op

2011-11-26T16:24:00.000-08:00

We've survived one week!! The time has gone fast...hopefully the next 2 weeks (Dec 5. is her post-op appt) go just as fast. Danielle is doing well...actually she is doing better than I imagined. She is tolerating the restraints well which was one of my biggest worries. Much better than her sister...

Needless to say Samantha didn't like the arm restraints one bit even after SHE asked to put them on. And I promise we weren't torturing her...even though it may look like it. Danielle's not a big fan of the elbow ones either. They cause a ton of frustration. She can pick things up but can't do anything with them once they are in her hands...now that's torture for a little one.

The mitts are much easier and Danielle doesn't seem to mind them one bit (unless you're putting them on). Samantha didn't mind them much either and even tried crawling with them on...but that only lasted a few minutes then it was time to take them off.

I try to take them off for an hour or so a day. As long as she is supervised and nothing goes in her mouth it seems to give her some joy and relief. Although that little stinker has realized she doesn't need her hands to get those precious toys in her mouth.

She seems to be doing okay with her pain. We are all out of narcotics and are only using Tylenol and Advil to stay on top of any. There are still times of irritability especially when she is tired and we have had to try some new calming and soothing techniques than what used to work in the past. She has also started eating and drinking better. For nearly a week she would only eat yogurt and that has slightly expanded in just the past couple days. She is now starting to take at least 3 bottles a day and has increased her urine output to the normal ranges.

We have had a few close family members and friends drop by and visit. It's always nice to get some face to face emotional support. We are also receiving nightly dinners dropped by our home for the 2 week period post-op. It's amazing how much a simple meal can bless you. The nights have been the roughest time for little Danielle and with minimal sleep at night it's great to have someone else slave over a hot home cooked meal.

Our biggest challenge at this point is Danielle's nightly sleeping routine. She is just now starting to fall asleep around 9pm which is much better than those later hours that she chose earlier in the week. Once she is in bed though she is awake every hour and a half at least. She needs to be comforted, receive pain meds, pacify herself with a bottle, or drink until her little tummy is full as can be. It's exhausting. Sometimes there is nothing you can do to stop the crying. All you can do is hold her tight and pray. I'm hoping that we can soon overcome this sleeping junk and get back to her pre-surgery normal.

Another challenge we are facing is with Samantha. She is getting frustrated with the amount of attention Danielle is getting and also the lack of stimulation she is receiving. One full day of relaxing in front of the t.v. and Samantha is irritable, temperamental, fitful and full of tears. She has begun to lash out as Danielle and Dale and I with hitting, and yelling. We have started to make a point of giving her something to do like bake, paint her nails, outings with Oma, reading time, etc. and that has seemed to help a bit. Needless to say this surgery has kinda thrown everyone in the family off.

A slow recovery.

2011-11-20T10:19:00.000-08:00

Friday Evening

By Friday mid day Danielle had been removed from her monitors and her IV fluids. She was eating and drinking enough to maintain her own urine output. She would have occasional times of being awake but slept for the majority, and only in people's arm. She would wake in tears needing to change her position and receive more medication.

Friday night we were discharged home. There was really nothing more that the hospital could do for her that we weren't already doing. Besides, the environment seemed to be causing more discomfort for her than anything. It was decided that being home would help aid her the most in recovery.

We drove home through our first snow fall of the season and listened to Christmas music as Danielle slept. Once we got home she got a second wind and wanted to be on the floor crawling around. She was still a bit sedated on narcotics and was wobbly on her feet but you could see more life on her face.

The night was rough and Dale ended up staying awake with Danielle while I slept through the night. The poor thing couldn't get comfortable anywhere but on her daddy's chest. She cried in pain, needed constant medication, and just acted irritable. She latched onto the bottle though for the first time since surgery!

Saturday Morning

Saturday morning rolled around and little Danielle was wiped from the night. After sending Dale to bed I found that the infant swing seemed to offer some comfort. She ate a few ounces of yogurt but didn't want much from her bottle.We continued the Ibuprofen, Tylenol, Oxycodone, and Antibiotic/Steroid Ear drops throughout the day.

She has done well with the hand mitts and can still crawl around and pull herself up on things. I tried the arm restraints for some time today and she got really frustrated. The mitts are the way to go!

Saturday Evening

Samantha came home and got to see her sister for the first time since Thursday morning. Both girls were completely excited and showered each other with smiles and kisses. We spent some time together and opened a cute gift from one of the ladies that Regan (Dale's dad) works with.

In the middle of the night we realized that Danielle had had only a few ounces of formula all day long. In addition to that she hadn't had a wet diaper all day. If we didn't get anything in her the surgeon wanted us to come straight to the emergency room. It's dangerous to get dehydrated after surgery. In the middle of the night we tried everything....formula, pedialyte, apple juice, and even apple sauce. Nothing worked. And then after some prayer and getting ready to go back to Children's Danielle was willing to take some formula as long as Dale would squirt it into her mouth while sitting up. Whatever works....she took 3 ounces.

Sunday Morning

The girls are curled up watching Minnie Mouse and enjoying each other's company. Danielle just took another 3 ounces of formula but still hasn't had a wet diaper. So today we will prayerfully try to get our little sick one to eat and drink as much as we can.

The first 24 hours

2011-11-18T09:47:00.000-08:00

It's 9am...we made it through the first night. It was a bit of a challenge but everyone is doing well. She didn't want to be put down and spent most of the night in her daddy's arms. If she slept in her crib she would wake within the hour in a startled cry of anxiety because she didn't know where she was. You could tell she was uncomfortable and always melted down about the time she was due for her next pain medication.

Dale was able to get her to eat 9oz last night using the bottle. He was able to squirt the milk directly into her mouth and she didn't seem to mind swallowing. She snored a bit and you could hear the blood and drool gathering in the back of her throat as she breathed with a gurgle.

Her whole body is swollen from all the IV fluids and her little toes are puggy as ever. Her face swelling has already started to decrease and there is no bruising. There is a bit of dried blood in her nose but the bloody discharge from her mouth is nearly gone. The palate looks great! It's strange to see since she's never had one before. You can see a ton of stitches and the open sores amongst the swollen tissue.

This morning Danielle had her first (more than a few minutes of crying) awake time since the surgery. She started cooing and even said mama a few times. We tried to get a smile out of her. You could see the smile in her eyes and a softening of her lips but she may still be too swollen to give out a big grin.

Since she was wide awake we decided to try feeding her. We started with one of her favorites...yogurt...and she inhaled it! The 4oz cup was empty in no time and I must say it was awesome to not have it come out of her nose.

This is the face of pure satisfaction! A full tummy and no pain! As I'm writing this she is out cold sleeping right there in her highchair. Of course I cleaned her up a bit first.

Surgery Day!

2011-11-17T11:01:00.000-08:00

6:25am--Both girls warm in their pajamas, packed in the car and on our way to the hospital. Just a quick stop off to get my beloved coffee and then to my dear friend Jill's house so she can watch Samantha for the day. (Thanks Jill....you're such a blessing).

7:45am--Check in at Children's Hospital. Danielle gets dressed into a gown and little socks as we try to entertain our tired melting down baby. We talk to the surgeon, his assistant, the operating nurse, and the anesthesiologist

9:15am--Danielle is taken into the arms of the anesthesiologist and we are left alone in the room. No tears from anyone.

10:00am--The ENT came out to tell us that the ear tubes have been placed and Danielle is doing well. It's time to start the palate reconstruction. We head out to make phone calls, nibble on some food and enjoy each other's company.

11:25 am--We got an update from the procedure room...Danielle is doing great! The procedure started at 10am and should take approximately 3 hours. My brother showed up to visit and brought us the perfect lunch. It's nice to have some company and keep my mind occupied.

1:42pm-- Surgery is DONE!! Danielle is doing great and all is well. The surgeon said everything went perfectly. She will be in recovery for about 2 hours. They keep her sedated, laying on her tummy with her feet above her head to allow for the drainage to come out without going in her tummy.

3:20pm--We just got a room...it's a private corner room with a view (thank you God for that blessing!) She is on her way up from recovery.

4:20pm-- We have gotten Danielle settled in the room. She is still fairly sedated from the medications but looks great!

6pm--Danielle is curled up in her Daddy's arms sleeping like an angel but wakes occasionally and cries out in pain. She has been able to take her oral pain medications and also drank a few tablespoons of her bottle. She has been switched to cloth boxing mitts to keep her fingers out of her mouth (much better than the full arm restraints). Hopefully the night goes well.

A few tears

2011-11-16T13:59:00.000-08:00

Today in the midst of cleaning the house, scrubbing the dishes, packing hospital bags, and doing laundry, I took a moment and laid on the floor with Danielle. Just the two of us in a quiet house and she smiled at me, giggled and said 'Mama' over and over. Tears started to flow. This poor baby, so young, so innocent, so undeserving has no idea how her life will change tomorrow. She can't prepare herself for the pain. She's not going to understand why she hurts, why she doesn't feel right, why life has been completely turned upside down. She's not going to understand the restraints, the IV, or the nurses and all their cold instruments. I can't take it away. Nothing I do can make it all better for her. It's the lot in life she was given. I don't understand...and I know I am not supposed to understand all that God does but it sucks. The journey sucks...for her. I pray God uses all this for His glory and He promises that He will but the truth is when your in the jungle that thought doesn't take away the fact that it's a tough place to be. God please keep my baby safe. Please comfort her soul even when I can't comfort her in any way physically. Give her peace and in some way give this little 10 month old, the joy of my life a way to understand your path. Let her feel your presence. Let her feel the warmth of your hand during the procedure and the tough road ahead. Please God. shine bright for all to see, including me, right now.

Countdown has begun!

2011-11-15T08:41:00.000-08:00

Surgery is Thursday!!

Yesterday we went to Children's Hospital to have the pre-op appointment for Danielle's palate closure surgery.

The appointment was packed full of information and I feel a little more prepared. We are to arrive at the Hospital at 7:45am and the surgery is scheduled to start at 9am. I'm so glad we got the morning surgery; it always allows you time to get settled in your room before night time rolls around. The surgery itself should take at least 3 hours and will include ear tube placement for her chronic ear infections in addition to the palate closure.

The surgery itself will be reconstructing muscles, bone, blood supply, and tissue from the gum line all the way back to the throat (even Danielle's uvula, the dangling thing in your throat, is split in two). It seems like a complicated surgery entailing many layers of dissolvable stitches and and a skilled hand of the surgeon.

Danielle will be left with a significant suture line and also 2 open wounds that were created to allow slack so the tissue could be pulled tight across the opening. After surgery Danielle will spend a couple hours in recovery. They wake the babies slowly in order to protect their airway (everything is swollen right where you breath), and stabilize their blood pressures. This surgery has a high risk for bleeding and you don't want them startled awake.
After recovery Danielle will be brought to her room in restraints. Children's uses 2 different kinds of restraints 1) full arm bands so she can't bend her elbows and 2) large mitts, much like boxing gloves. The restraints are used to keep her from putting her fingers or anything else into her mouth. Danielle LOVES her mouth. She puts EVERYTHING in there. So these restraints will be crucial in the recovery period for approximately 2 weeks. In addition to the restraints Danielle will come to her room with a tongue piercing. They pierce the tongue and attach it to a string so it can be pulled out of the mouth to open the airway.

We will be staying in the hospital 1-2 nights and will most likely go home sometime Saturday. The key to the hospital stay is to get Danielle eating and drinking again and to get her pain in control before we are sent home.
This surgery has many complications that can occur during the healing process. The sutures can rip open, infection could set in, fistulas (or holes) can develop and eat threw the palate, or lack of blood supply can cause the tissue to die. All we can do is pray against any of these complications and trust the treatment plan of the physicians.
I'm a little nervous and a bit overwhelmed getting everything prepared. This surgery comes with different emotions than the last. This one doesn't effect how my baby will look for the rest of her life but this one is more traumatic and intense for her. The recovery period will be very difficult and we will encounter many obstacles and difficulties. It breaks my heart that my little 10 month old baby has to tackle things this big and experience pain I can only imagine. I will do my best to blog continuously during this surgery so you can be there with us. So until later this week...

We Need Prayer!!!

2011-11-12T07:37:00.000-08:00

Danielle's palate closure surgery is less than a week away and the poor thing is sick. Yep as much as I tried to protect her she got a GI bug and is throwing up and has horrible diarrhea. It's awful and I'm super nervous. Please pray God gives her little body healing prior to surgery so it isn't postponed or made more complicated in the recovery process. Please also pray that the rest of us don't get it. We need a miracle of protection. Dale and I are both planning on staying at the hospital and can't if we're sick and Samantha is staying with Dale's parents and would be supper difficult if she got sick. Only a few more (super packed) days before our journey with surgery begins and the health of this family is crucial!!

In the double digits!

2011-11-04T07:43:00.000-07:00

Danielle is 10 months old!

Her beauty just makes me smile. She has dirty blond hair, bright blue eyes and dimples that could melt even the hardest of hearts. This month her two bottom middle teeth came in! That is my favorite baby thing....its just adorable.

At her appointment this last month she weighed in at 19 pounds 7 ounces...52.22% for body weight
She was 28.25 inches...63% for height. These numbers are for full term babies not preemies so she is doing excellent!! She is starting to get some adorable baby fat on her...I just love it!
This month Danielle hit many milestones. She now crawls everywhere!! In fact she follows me around the house and hates to be alone. She also pulls herself up on anything that's available and can make it around the coffee table like a champ. She can even pass between the coffee table and the couch. It's super fun to watch.

She has the sweetest heart and is such a people person. Life is all well if she is held. She is eating well and has cut herself back on the amount of formula she consumes. She sleeps well through the night and only wakes once for a feeding. She is also becoming better at self soothing and can now be placed in her crib awake and get herself to sleep.
She loves to play with toys and her sister and enjoys bouncing and jumping. She's growing up fast and is just the joy of my life!

Preventing preterm labor

2011-11-02T14:34:00.000-07:00

My little Danielle decided to begin labor 6 weeks before her due date. By the grace of God she stayed in the womb for another week and came into this world 5 weeks premature. We were blessed with a healthy 6 pound 7 oz baby with absolutely no complications unlike many parents whose children are premature. We never did discover the reason behind her prematurity but it's never something to take lightly. A matter of days can be the difference between life and death, NICU stays, incubators, and breathing tubes. So when I got pregnant with Chase my Obstetrician sent me to see a Perinatologist AKA a high risk pregnancy doctor. He presented his concern surrounding the prematurity and suggested a hormone treatment that has been proven to help sustain a pregnancy.

Dale and I went home and did some research. We decided after learning that there are no detrimental side effects for either Chase or me that we had nothing to lose (well except for the ridiculous amount of money it would cost). I would have to get weekly hormone injections of 17 alphahydroxyprogesterone caproate from 18 weeks up until 37 weeks pregnant.

The doctors are allowing Dale to give me the weekly injections at home rather than go into the doctor every week. One awesome blessing of being married to a nurse!! I think he likes doing it...watching me squirm puts a smile on his face.

The injections are super painful! They are given in sesame oil and feeling it pushed into the muscle is just awful. It's gotten to the point I only make it threw it by holding Samantha's hands and grimacing in pain. Dale laughs at me...he says it's ridiculous I need my 2 year old to get a shot. I don't care what he says...she my life saver!

Within a couple of days my entire thigh from knee to hip feels like I have been beaten with a bat...seriously its incredible. Each week comes with it's own reactions along with the pain. Some weeks I cry non stop or feel utterly exhausted. Others I have body aches and joint pain. I have the doctors remind me every visit that it's worth it. And when I look at pictures of premature babies on line I know I'm doing the right thing. Chase is worth it..but boy does it stink!

In addition to the hormone injections I am going into the doctors every 2.5 weeks to have ultrasounds on my cervix. They are making sure that my cervix is staying thick and not changing to early. So far so good and it's actually better than they are hoping for.

24 Weeks Pregnant

2011-11-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

I'm 24 weeks along!! Little Chase is over a pound in weight and almost a foot long. He is a little mover, and even with an anterior placenta I'm feeling him a ton.

This is an example of what he may look like at this point in the pregnancy. My little man is gettin' so big!

I'm feeling great and at this point have had no complications. I am loving being pregnant and still can't get over the fact I'm having a boy. Dale got to feel our little rascal for the first time yesterday morning. Dale came home from work and ventured into our bedroom to say hi as I was still curled up warm in the covers. This is normally one of Chase's busy times and with a soft touch of his daddy's hands the little guy went nuts. I love that!!

My 10 favorite things right now...

2011-11-01T20:12:00.000-07:00

1) 1/2 decaf 20oz macadamia nut white chocolate mochas. I'm seriously addicted!! It's a daily necessity. In fact for the first time in any pregnancy I am willing to pack up everyone and drive just to get one.

2) salt...no chocolate...no wait salt...noooo really chocolate...these cravings are nuts!!
3) A long, hot shower...I don't get one often so they have to be cherished
4) The cold weather AKA warm clothes, slippers, blankets (and I must admit I'm still wearing flip flops)
5) Christmas music...seriously it's already on the radio!

6) My new van. I can fit me, Dale, both girls, a costco trip, a double stroller, and the dog...ALL AT ONCE!!
7) My bed with a ton of covers and even more pillows...I don't feel like I get to see it enough
8) Feeling Chase kick
9) Danielle's crib music maker. It helps put her to sleep and she can turn it on herself.

10) My new double stroller. Boy does it make getting around SO much easier!

What are your favorite things right now?

Happy Halloween!!

2011-11-01T19:29:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Jill's 7 month old daughter Kahlan

I love you Baby Brother Chase

Check out this cheerleading move Mom

Seriously Mom?!? Are we done yet?

LONG days, SHORT years

2011-10-26T21:58:00.000-07:00

I had someone say those words to me not long ago...long days, short years. Boy does that nail it on the head when you have kids...especially right now at these ages. I'm exhausted!! Emotionally, physically, mentally exhausted. I don't know if I have ever felt more overwhelmed and burnt out as I do right now. There are times I wake in the morning and wonder how in the world I will make it through an entire day. And then I crawl into bed at night completely empty and praying that my sleep will be a bit restful. The days are long. But then I look at Sam and wonder how in the world can she be two and I am about to have my third child...where have the years gone? My plate is full!

My season in life...

I'm running after a rambunctious 2 year old,

catering to every need of a 9 month old (and running after her since she crawls everywhere),

picking up toys continuously,

waddling around with a gigantic pregnant belly and all it's glorious aches and pains,

awake at least twice a night with neither girl sleeping continually from sun down to sun up,

feeling like a single mom when Dale works 3 days in a row,

picking up toys continuously,

trying to find a way to survive in a home we have SEVERELY outgrown,

venturing through foreclosure on our condo (It's a good thing just stressful...I'll blog about that later),

trying to prepare myself for the addition of yet another kid in a 2 bedroom condo,

working one day a week which is starting to wear heavily on my body and Dale's patience when he's alone with the girls, picking up toys continuously,

trying to survive hormonal ups and downs caused from my hormone injections (again I'll blog about this in the future),

going to many doctor appointments for my OB and high risk pregnancy doctors,

attending bible studies and MOPS (mother's of preschoolers),

preparing for Danielle's upcoming surgery and all that it entails,

picking up toys continuously,

and trying by the grace of God to be a decent wife, mother, homemaker, daughter, and friend.

In bible study today the leader asked us how we would feel if God told us that He wanted us to stay right where we are in life for the rest of our lives. Could we do it? Would we do it? And would we be joyful and content? I laughed...and then I felt horribly convicted. This season in my life is intense. The days seem to be getting longer and at times I wonder when one ended and the next one began. I thank God this is just a season in my life. But right now I think I'm going to prayerfully attempt to shower my days with joy, my kids with love, my husband with kisses, my friends with encouraging words, my body at least every other day (smile), and God with my thankfulness. I don't want to miss the gift I've been given in these long days because these short years just fly on by. God pick me up, dust me off, and please PLEASE carry me!!

My hands are slimy!

2011-10-26T16:31:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year...my favorite...the fall! And with it comes not only heavy rain, beautiful trees, and candy corns but pumpkins. Samantha was super excited to carve pumpkins this year. We went to the store and she hand picked each and every one. What a process...the mind of a 2 year old!

She was fascinated by the seeds and didn't seem to mind gettin' her hands dirty...or slimy as she called it.

I think the kid in Dale loves it just as much.

Her and her little friend Sophia had the times of their lives.

And if you ask me I think the finished product was just cute as can be!

Surgery is Scheduled!!

2011-10-26T15:13:00.000-07:00

The next obstacle for Danielle to overcome in her cleft repair is the closure of her palate. We have finally reached that anticipated time. Her surgery is scheduled for Thursday November 17th at Children's Hospital in Seattle. Her pre-op appointment will be the Monday before on November 14th. At that appt we will find out what time surgery will be set for and all the minor details. At this point we know that surgery is supposed to take approximately 3 hours and we will remain at the hospital for 3 days. Danielle will be assigned a nutritionist to monitor her calorie intake since last time at her lip closure she lost weight. She will also have tubes placed in her ears to aide in drainage and help stop her ear infections.

We have just started handing out and mailing prayer cards (above) to anyone that will commit to joining in prayer with us. We have handed out these prayer cards (business cards) twice before...once after she was born and once before her lip closure. It is so comforting to know that we are not alone in this journey but we have many brothers and sisters in Christ standing beside us lifting her up in prayer. Will you please join us?
I'll give you more updates and details after the appt on the 14th and will also guide you through the process as I did last time. So until then...

He'll be known as...

2011-10-08T15:02:00.000-07:00

I can't believe we're having a little boy!! Oh goodness...I don't know how to raise little boys...I got this girl thing down. Even though I'm nervous I couldn't be more excited. I'm going to have a son!!! A SON!! YAY!! This little baby's name has been chosen since July. Samantha has called him by this name since the very beginning. It's like she always knew. And when we suggested to her that the name could possibly be different she adamantly told us NO.
I know you are all sitting in suspense so without further ado...
Our first born son is...

Chase Robert Landis

Chase means 'Huntsman' and Robert means 'Bright Flame'... the Hunter of the Bright Flame...too cool!! Robert is a family name on Dale's side. It is the name of not only his beloved Grandfather but also his Father. We had to continue the tradition since little Chase will be the first and possible only boy to carry on the Landis name for one more generation. We can't wait to meet you Baby Brother Chase!

Half way there...that's if I go full term!

2011-10-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'm 20 weeks along in this pregnancy!! Where does the time go...I'm half way through!

18 weeks along...with my Mom

This has been a great pregnancy. I feel fabulous and besides being low on energy (you try taking care of 2 under 2 and carrying one!) I am loving every minute of it. I can honestly say that this has been the greatest pregnancy so far. I've had no PUPPP, no heart PVC's and no complications. Dale says I'm a bit more emotional with this one than I was with the girls so I guess we should be praying for him and not so much me (smile).

You've seen me from the outside...now here is what the baby and I look like on the inside...

We went in at 18 weeks 4 days to have our anatomy scan completed. We had it done at Maternal Fetal Medicine at Providence Hospital. It was a long appointment which included a full in-depth scan of the baby, a meeting with the geneticist to discuss our findings and a meeting with the Neonatologist to discuss our management of another preterm baby. The week leading up to the appointment was tense. I cried a lot! I just seemed to get wrapped up in fears about the health of this baby. What would this ultrasound show? Well...it showed this...

A profile picture.

A beautiful baby!! With no cleft, no defects, no abnormalities...just a perfect, healthy, beautiful baby in every way! His heart was beating in the 150's per minute and he was wiggling up a storm! Sometimes the ultrasounds are hard to understand so here is a pic of what the baby may look like at 19 weeks along...

Pretty awesome huh?! So there Dale and I are sitting in that dark room with my tummy covered in goo and tears in our eyes and the sonographer asks if we want to know the sex of the baby. HECK YEAH!! He cruised down to the legs and...

Check out the little triangle sitting between the two outstretched legs. (Right leg visible, left leg slightly blacked out)

There was no hiding it!

HOLY COW!!! A healthy beautiful baby boy! God is SOOOOOO good!! What a blessing from above! The Landis name will now continue for 1 more generation...too cool! So along with being told we were having a healthy baby boy we were told that my placenta is anterior just as it was with Samantha. That means that is is laying on the front of my uterus against my tummy. This is why I haven't felt him kicking much. It tends to block much of the sensation.

So now I'm 20 weeks along. I'm huge, filled with joy and cherishing every minute of this journey.

In and Out

2011-10-04T05:15:00.000-07:00

Danielle has officially been out of the womb as long as she was in...she is 9 months old!!

This past month Danielle has started to get on all 4's and rock. She can get just about anywhere and has more determination than any baby I've ever seen. She hates when she can't keep up with her sister. She is crawling backwards which is one of the most comical things I've ever seen. She can make it all the way across the house and then boom...she backs into a corner...and she's stuck! The little thing can't figure out how to go forward.

Little Samantha and Danielle have become the best of buds. They spend much of the day playing with each other (or accidentally knocking each other down). Danielle is such a people person! She wants to be around people at all times and goes through her moments of needing both daddy and mommy. There is nothing that breaks your heart more than when your baby cries just because she can't see you anymore.

Also this month Danielle pulled herself up in her crib! This little girl LOVES to be standing. She will do anything to pull herself up on whoever may be near. She even took 5 steps this past week while holding onto only 1 of Dale's hands...she is ready to be on the move.

Similarities??

2011-09-15T18:46:00.000-07:00

I want to introduce you to my beautiful cousin Des and her gorgeous family. Des is just 2 year older than me and has always been someone that I look up to and cherished deeply. As kids we were buds. Every single holiday and we would be connected at the hip for a few days. I remember watching her grow and always striving to be like her. She loves the Lord, guided me through my cheerleading days and I'll never forget when she fell in love with her husband. She looked like royalty on her wedding day. Listening to her talk about Mike I prayed God would give me the same thing one day. We live nearly half the country apart and yet she is always on my heart. I remember when she started having girls and I was blown away that she was given 3 of them!!...3 girls what is God nuts! I couldn't do it I thought, but Des was the perfect woman for it. Now here I sit with 2 beautiful daughters and possibly a 3rd on the way and all I can do is smile at God.

Now let me introduce you to her middle daughter...precious little Em. I've heard Des say at times she looks at Emmeline and sees me. That just makes me smile. But then one day I was taking cute pictures of Samantha's french braids and I saw something...

Tell me you see it?!?!? There is definitely a similarity there right? The Herburger genes run strong.

That's just cool!!!

Summer Fun 2011

2011-09-15T17:11:00.000-07:00

It's starting to turn to fall in Seattle. Thinking back this summer has been filled to the brim with fun. We've done some neat things like...

Going swimming

Dale went out for a weekend and went Carp Shooting, using a bow and arrow...the ultimate guys weekend

We attended a charity baseball game at Safeco field (home of the Mariners) and got to sit in the first row behind home plate!

Now that's how to watch a baseball game!

After the game Dale got to go on the field! What a dream!

And sit in the visitors dugout...

And go into the visitors locker room...crazy to think the Yankees have been here.

Summer was the time for accessories... jewelry and sunglasses

We went to picnics and BBQ's. Sam found herself a new home and a new friend.

We took the girls to the fair...

We played outside until the sun went down...

Samantha went on her first bike ride...

and we went to daddy's work to celebrate Father's Day

Those are just a few of the fun things we did this summer!

My little baby is gettin' big!

2011-09-14T19:27:00.000-07:00

Baby Danielle is 8 months old! She has become so fun and is developing a sweet and spunky personality.

She is getting so big and now tops the scales at 18 pounds. She is wearing 6 month clothing and is all arms and legs.

Laying next to the outfit she came home from the hospital in

She has a killer smile and is always showing off her tongue and dimples. She loves bath time...

celebrating Grammie's 82nd birthday

Danielle...whom we all call Dede (what Samantha called her originally since she couldn't say her full name) is still teething. She makes the cutest 'old woman face' (without dentures of course) when the teething is bad. She still has yet to break any teeth but we can see those bottom ones pressing out on the gums.

Feeding is still a small challenge but Danielle is now eating solids twice a day. Sometimes she eats a ton and sometimes a few bites is all I'm going to get. You can tell she is ready for big girl food but we are only allowed to feed her baby soft food until her palate closure. Of course on occasion she gets to try the food she aggressively dives for...

She is starting to sleep through the night about 5 out of 7 nights...yay for me!!! She takes about 3-4 naps a day but there is yet to be any rhyme or reason to them. Lets see...what else...

She is starting to get on all 4's and desperately wants to run after her sister, she hates her car seat, she loves swings, loves to be held, loves new toys, doesn't like her feet covered, does great in the church nursery, hates being left in a room alone, doesn't like kisses from the dog, but loves kisses from us, loves the stroller, is great at pulling Sam's hair, knows her name, loves being tickled, has gorgeous blue eyes, she can army crawl backwards, now uses a highchair and is so much fun to play with!

A whopping 5 years!!

2011-09-14T15:09:00.000-07:00

This August Dale and I celebrated our 5 year anniversary. 5 years...incredible! So much has happened in these past years. We decided to celebrate in style without any kids and went to dinner at Daniel's Broiler.

Check out this view from our table. The food was incredible, as was the service. We started out with some fried calamari and then spoiled ourselves with incredible entrees. Dale had the 24 oz porterhouse steak with brandy peppercorn sauce and a side of lobster mashed potatoes. I had pecan crusted Hawaiian Ono and a side of lobster mashed potatoes also. We shared some broccolini...you drooling yet?

We finished the night with a complimentary dessert...a molten chocolate cake, with vanilla ice cream and fresh berries...incredible!

We went all out on gifts this year. 5 years is something to cherish!

I got Dale a Tissot watch with sapphire crystal and had engraved on the back..."All my life, 8/16/2011"
He got me a ring with a Brazilian amethyst surrounded by yellow gold, garnets and amethyst. It is stunning and matches the amethyst bracelet he got me for our 4 year anniversary.

I'm madly in love with my husband...in fact more in love now than I was on our wedding day. He truly is my best friend.... seriously we're buds. I'm still learning new things about him and his past and our relationship is exciting. These last 5 years have surpassed all my dreams of marriage. And although we've had a fair share of trials I'm glad he was by my side through them all. I can't wait to see what the next 50 years bring.

I love you Dale!! Thank you for sharing your life with me! I cherish you!!

An Adored Visitor

2011-08-24T14:14:00.000-07:00

For 12 wonderful days at the end of July my Aunt Karen came out to visit. We had such a busy trip, although my goal was to let her rest, somehow I managed to keep us running.

She was here to celebrate Samantha's 2nd Birthday Bash, Danielle's dedication, and my Mom's birthday along with shopping, eating great food, visiting a farm, visiting my dad and eating in my brother's sub shop. Super fun stuff if you ask me!!

She always comes with a suitcase filled with goodies for the girls. One of the best all time...these matching shawls...ADORABLE. My luck though I have yet to get a picture of them together wearing them. I don't have many matching outfits for the girls so this is super fun for me!!!

It was great to have Karen here and let her see baby Danielle after her surgery. Karen has been one of my biggest supports and prayer warriors over the past year. From before I even knew about the cleft, her and I would talk about this little baby and she would give comforting words when I had an aching feeling something was wrong. She prayed with me threw the preterm labor, the emotions surrounding the cleft and even helped me put together all the prayer cards. She has been a strength to me and has lifted us all up in many different ways. She holds a special place in my heart and will always be someone I admire and cherish. Thank you Karen for everything...for loving us unconditionally and being a spiritual, physical, and emotional strength.

Party Time!!

2011-08-24T11:06:00.000-07:00

To celebrate Samantha turning 2 we held the greatest Minnie Mouse Party EVER!!!

Here she is making her Grand Entrance (in her adorable Minnie Mouse Dress)

My Aunt Karen and I made and decorated 50 pink Minnie Mouse cupcakes with bows and ears to match. They came out better than I had hoped!

Karen, my dear friend Julia's mom, offered up her home to host the party. And it's not just any home...it's the most perfect, beautiful party home on a lake!!!

We were spoiled rotten with a beautiful day and not a minute of it was wasted!!

Check out this gorgeous back yard!! Karen's home was such a blessing...as was she. She fed all my guests...with food she provided and served. We were pampered from the start. Thank you so much Karen for making this a birthday we will never forget!! You truly are special to our family...we love you!!

The sun and the fun seemed to tucker out little Danielle but after a short comfy nap she was back at it!

We even had a chocolate fountain with ALL the fixin's...strawberries, bananas, graham crackers, animal crackers, gummy bears, marshmallows, pineapple, and pretzels...now that is fun!!

Samantha was spoiled with gifts! She had a blast opening them all and wanted to play with each one before she moved on to the next.

The day finished up with another dip in the water!

It was the most PERFECT party ever! Thanks to everyone who celebrated with us!!

Danielle's Dedication

2011-08-21T17:22:00.000-07:00

Danielle was dedicated this last month at our church, Canyon Hills Community Church. It was a neat service and so special to spend with all our family. Hope you enjoy the video...

Danielle's Life Verse:

Guide me in your truth and teach me,

for you are God my Savior,

and my hope is in you all day long

Psalm 25:5

Looking Back

2011-08-20T19:25:00.000-07:00

Since I've started blogging Danielle's cleft and the address has been handed out to various parents from Children's Hospital who are also undertaking the cleft process I have received some touching emails from mothers and grandmothers of cleft babies. They tug at the heart strings. It is such a tender process and brings along with it so many emotions. I have been told that it has been good for some to read about our process, that my raw emotion allows them to feel connected to someone who has already been there. I decided to go back and look threw all my old cleft posts. I can't stop crying. Even making it as far as we have I'm just overwhelmed with all the old emotions and heartache as I look back. This process has not been an easy one. And it's not over. I sat on the computer the other day while Dale and Danielle played on the couch together. I overheard him apologize to her for being born with a cleft. It broke my heart. She's beautiful but the truth is life will have it's challenges. It makes me sad for her. I wish I could take the pain away (emotional and physical). We've only had one surgery and I know there are many more to come.

Danielle is currently fighting another ear infection. They make her miserable and there's nothing I can do that seems to help. We were supposed to have tubes placed on Aug 22. The procedure was booked and all the doctors were on board. I wanted to get her off the maintenance antibiotic as soon as possible...it's not good to be on an antibiotic for months at a time. Last week I got a phone call from Danielle's ENT from Group Health (our insurance) and they denied the surgery. The lead anesthesiologist refused to work on her because of her age, reflux, and cleft and therefore wanted us to go to Children's. I'm so frustrated. I just want this done. We have an appointment at Children's on Sept 19th with Danielle's surgeon and an ENT to discuss her upcoming palate closure and ear tube placement. They had said we could expect the surgery to take place in November but since she's on a daily antibiotic treatment I'm going to push for October. I'm nervous for the surgery already. I don't think any surgery will be easier than the one before. They all bring their own obstacles.

My heart just grieves for my dear daughter and those other precious babies at Children's Hospital who have such a long journey ahead.

Samantha turns 2!!

2011-08-19T11:29:00.000-07:00

July 14th Samantha woke up chipper as can be. She had hardly sleep that night before because the excitement was to great. Samantha was turning 2!! The morning kicked off with her first gift...A Mickey Mouse Clubhouse book set...

We had a grand day at the water park planned but after such a rough night sleep the day ended up consisting of a few naps. So instead of the water park we partied that night at Red Robin with the family.

Samantha LOVED to be doted on and opening all her gifts. She thought the best part was by far the Red Robin crew singing to her and then setting a giant ice cream sundae right in front of her little hands. Once the excitement died down though she took one bite and then was off to play with the balloons.

Even Danielle had a great time!

I can't believe Samantha is already 2. Where does the time go? I remember being pregnant with her, bringing her home from the hospital, watching those first steps, and adoring my first little baby. She was such a good baby...and a fabulous toddler. Here's a little about my cutie patootie...

Samantha loves Mickey Mouse, Blues Clues and Elmo...she LOVES milk...She wears 3T clothing...and size 7-8shoes...She could be potty trained but doesn't want to be...LOVES to be outside...at ALL times...loves the moon...is a very light sleeper...is starting to have some separation anxiety...loves to pray at bedtime and before meals...sings 'Oh Happy Day' constantly...adores her baby sister...and her new baby 'brother' (what she calls it) in mommy's tummy...She loves baby dolls...and calls them ALL baby Abby... carries a blankie with her most all the time...thinks one blankie is great but 8 is even better!...Loves animals...is obsessed with slides and parks...likes swimming...isn't a picky eater...LOVES rollarcoasters...and anything daring...loves the tickle monster...and wrestling with daddy...likes to 'drive'...Adores her Oma and Poppy...and her Nanny...has a dear friend Kasey...Loves to have her toes painted...and take a bubble bath...is adored by her parents...is a complete drama queen...and can throw great tantrums...Loves hugs and kisses...giving and receiving them...She talks non stop...loves swinging...loves the windows down when we drive...is a social bee...likes the beach...points out each and every motorcycle...likes jewelry...is a Daddy's girl...takes forever to fall asleep...likes to talk on the phone...is good at brushing her teeth...loves her teddy bear and stuffed monkey...stands at 3 feet tall...is a giant help to her mommy...and is precious in every way!!!

Happy Birthday Samantha!!! We love you so very much!!

Second Trimester for little #3

2011-08-18T13:26:00.001-07:00

Does this not bring tears to your eyes...

http://www.i-am-pregnant.com/Pregnancy/calendar/week/14

It does to me...but then again everything seems to be. But come on...our little baby is only 13.5 weeks along and God is just miraculous!! I still can't believe I'm pregnant at time so looking at these pictures just blows my mind. At 13 weeks our little rascal is nearly 3 inches long from crown to rump (his little bum) about the size of a peach. Nearly all body systems are formed and the eyelids are starting to fuse together. If it's another girl she has nearly 2 million eggs in her ovaries (a weird concept to think that my grandchildren are inside of me). The hands and feet are no longer webbed and the vocal cords are starting to form. I placed a ticker at the bottom of the page so you can track how far along we are. Remember that between 18-20 weeks we can find out what were having (boy or girl???) at the anatomy scan. This time we are going straight to maternal fetal medicine at the hospital to have our ultrasound done because that is when we discovered Danielle's cleft. This baby only has a 5 % chance of having a cleft but we won't waste anytime making sure everything checks out okay.

So how am I doing you ask...

I'm still nauseous
Peeing a ton, and horribly constipated (I'm a nurse...you knew I couldn't just pass up telling you about even the yucky stuff of pregnancy)
Starting to get my energy back
I've started having PVC's (abnormal heart palpitations) again so I've started taking my iron to combat any anemia. Read about it with Danielle's pregnancy HERE.
My PUPPP is not bad at this point. They actually ruled out the actual diagnosis of PUPPP when I was pregnant with Danielle so if it gets bad again I will be seeing a dermatologist to get his help. To read about it in Danielle's pregnancy click HERE or HERE
I'm showing pretty significantly. In fact I look much bigger than 13 weeks. I guess that will happen when it's your 3rd pregnancy in just over 2 years.
I cry at the drop of a hat...seriously...it's ridiculous
I'm enjoying this pregnancy actually. And as a surprise to me I'm not dealing with any anxiousness or fear related to the health of the baby. I'm still just trying to wrap my head around having 3 kids in 2.5 years...but God's working on my heart and mind.

Well until later...

I'm ALIVE!!!!

2011-08-18T12:15:00.000-07:00

I knew you were nervous BUT I'm ALIVE and back in action!!! What a month!! Since I blogged last, over a month ago, life has been crazy and busy! My aunt came to visit for 2 weeks, I've been sick as a dog and the craziest news of all I started working. That's right ladies and gentleman Heather Landis is a working woman...a practicing Registered Nurse. I have been employed at Eastside Endoscopy Center in Bellevue Washington. We perform colonoscopys, upper endoscopys (upper GI's), and a few random procedures. I LOVE IT!!! I will be working a per diem schedule...AKA...I choose my own shifts, and at this point am only working 10 hour shifts 1-2 days a week. Starting August 1st I had an intense 2 week full time training period. I survived...barely :) It's hard working 10 hours on your feet, being pregnant in your first trimester, having your husband work at night, and taking care of 2 little kids who neither sleep through the night. With the help of my mom and mother in law it was a success and I am now onto working my per diem schedule. Unfortunately after the 2 weeks were over I came down with a killer cold. It laid me up for 2 days and I still have yet to pull completely out of it. So much has happened this last month and I have some fun blogs to do. I promise I'll catch up and you won't miss a thing.

It's little heart is beating!!

2011-07-15T18:49:00.000-07:00

Well I'm 8 weeks along and our beautiful baby now looks something like this...

http://www.i-am-pregnant.com

Of course on the ultrasound we had today he looked something like this...

He is laying on his side and his head is to the right. The black area is where his brain is. You can see little nubs where his arms are. I am due on February 20, 2012, just about the time Danielle will turn 14 months old.
He looked great on the ultrasound. He is approximately 1.5 cm long and his heart was beating 158 times a minute (a great number). Dale also spotted a subchorionic bleed on the side of the placenta during the ultrasound. Much to the surprise and nervousness of the ultrasound tech she confirmed it but was shocked Dale saw it. As the placenta is forming there is a section between it and the uterus that doesn't seal right and bleeds. Most of the time this heals by the end of the first trimester, and there is only a 1% chance of miscarriage and those are normally seen with significant bleeding. I had a subchorionic bleed with Danielle and it was discovered when I started bleeding in the first trimester. This one doesn't seem to be that big and I have yet to have any bleeding but it wouldn't hurt to have some prayers over it.
I am feeling pretty nauseous and have had one night where I loved the toilet and my throw up bucket more than anything in the world. About dinner time my stomach begins to get a bit ripe and by the evening I am normally tucking myself into bed so I don't throw up. The mornings are a bit rough too. I am super tired but I guess that comes with the territory of raising 2 under 2 and still getting up for a night time feeding with Danielle. Dale has been a superhero and allowed me the chance to rest nearly every day. He has picked up the slack when I can't hang on and has been a champ when I order pizza for dinner cause I'm too tired or nauseous to cook. My PUPPP isn't bad at all yet and I'm starting to settle into the idea of having 3 kids so close together. What a roller coaster ride God has put us on!

A surprising gift from God

2011-06-29T17:34:00.000-07:00

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart -Jeremiah 1:5

Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him. -Psalm 127:3

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. -James 1:17

http://www.i-am-pregnant.com/Pregnancy/calendar/week/6

Check out this beautiful baby!! It is only 4 weeks old (the mom is 6 weeks pregnant) and this week the heart starts to beat! A beautiful life...a beautiful creation...a gift from God. Well ladies and gentleman, I'm here to say, that a little bundle of joy about this size is growing in me!! Yep you heard me right...I am 6 weeks pregnant!! We have known for exactly 2 weeks. I woke up in the middle of the night with some round ligament pain in my belly and just knew I was pregnant. Sure enough 3 positive test confirmed it and I have my first OB appointment in just a few weeks. I'm just now starting to feel some symptoms like needing a nap, a snack and a restroom more often. This baby was a complete surprise, in fact Dale and I were sure we were done having kids, but apparently God wasn't ready for us to be done.

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. -Isaiah 55:8-9

He has great plans for this family and we are fully ready to submit to His will and enjoy the journey!! Thank you God for the gift of a beautiful baby in our lives.

Half a Year Old

2011-06-28T16:41:00.000-07:00

Little Danielle is 6 months old!!

She is a little cuddle bug...is wearing 3 month clothing...is Samantha's little babydoll (check her out in Samantha's babydoll's stroller)...

loves to be naked...started eating solid food...but still to small to sit in a highchair...naps for only 30 min at a time if in her cradle...naps for 2-3 hours if in her car seat...

smiles every time she sees her sister...is super long...is getting stronger...likes to hold Samantha's hand...

loves to play with toys...likes to hold onto her burpcloths at all times...is still wearing #1 diapers...loves her toys...now uses her exersaucer...

has giant dimples...drools constantly...and is getting bigger every month!!

A bit of the midwest in Seattle

2011-06-28T14:50:00.000-07:00

We were spoiled this month when my mom's sister and her parents came out to visit. My Aunt Susan came up from California and just a day later my Grandparents arrived after a long road trip from Nebraska. It was wonderful to spend time with some of my family and share my girls with them.

One of the neatest things was celebrating my grandparents 64th wedding anniversary. We went to dinner at Olive Garden and ate until we felt like we were going to burst.

Sam enjoyed her first encounter with olives...

What a special occasion. I hope that Dale and I will be happy, healthy, and as much in love as you both are. Happy Anniversary!!

We lucked out one day and the sun showed itself in this dreary city. We all jumped in the car and headed to the park. Samantha was spoiled with slides, climbing walls, swings and a ton of family doting over her every move. Grandma and I on the other hand didn't leave without a bruise or two. I hit my head square on a post as I jumped off a ledge ( a tad bit comical to watch but oh so painful!!). Grandma fell when we walked along the path and sprained her ankle. That night after we got home Grandma's ankle began to swell and turn colors. Nurse Dale stepped up to the plate, wrapped and iced her ankle and accompanied them to the ER. After confirming that it wasn't broken we spent the next few days around the house keeping her poor ankle elevated.

It was so precious to see everyone. It has been a year and it may be a few more before we can make it out to see them all again.

I just love watching my girls with my family. Since I don't have any in the state it just warms my heart. Samantha fell in love with Papa. She wanted him to play with her constantly and said his name in almost every sentence.

I just love seeing 4 generation pictures. We didn't get a single great one though. One of us was doing something funny in all of them so I picked the one I thought was the best to show you. It just fascinates me to see that many generations in a picture and it is weird to watch myself move up in the generational line.

Thank you guys for coming out to visit. It was so special and I cherished every minute. I just adore sharing my girls and my life with you, in more than just this blog, and can't wait until I get to see you again. Hope you enjoyed yourselves as much as we did.

1 month post-op

2011-06-28T14:11:00.000-07:00

It has been 1 month since Danielle's lip repair. Healing is coming along great and there seems to be no more pain. We had a post-op appointment on the 20th with the surgeon and he was very pleased with the results. We have begun lip massages using Vaseline a few times a day. Danielle isn't a huge fan since we are rubbing her face but the massages will help keep the scar flexible and soft.

The next phase of Danielle's repair is already in the works. We have an appointment in September with her surgeon (the same one who did her lip) and an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist to discuss her palate repair and test her speech and hearing. We are aiming for sometime in November for the repair. Until then we are supposed to get Danielle switched from the bottle to a sippy cup. In addition we are not supposed to feed her any type of solid food except for pureed baby food. We were told that this surgery will be more traumatic than the lip and healing will take some time.

Danielle is struggling with chronic ear infections and has been placed on a daily maintenance dose of antibiotic. She has fluid behind both ears constantly and by giving the antibiotic we are hoping the fluid doesn't fester into an infection. In July she will be seeing an ENT at Group Health to discuss tubes being placed in her ear drums to aid in draining the fluid. If this surgery doesn't happen in the next few months than the tubes will be placed at the same time as her palate repair.

Feeding is still an issue and Danielle HATES her bottles. She had developed a fear of the colic pain caused by drinking the formula and she has also become addicted to sugar which is in all the medications she has taken for months. In order to entice her to drink we now place sugar straight into the bottle. It is the only way to get her to calm down enough and drink her milk. She has not been gaining weight so we have also begun baby food. She does ok and has liked carrots, peas, and pears so far. She does well until the food makes it's way up through the palate and out her nose. That normally results in crying and the end of a feeding. I hope that one day she is a good eater and we no longer encounter these screaming struggles.

2011-06-27T18:13:00.000-07:00

2 weeks post-op

2011-06-10T00:27:00.000-07:00

It's been 2 weeks since little Danielle's cleft lip repair. She is healing up wonderfully. Her nose is starting to relax and her nostrils are continually changing shape as the weeks go by. The swelling and bruising are all gone and she doesn't seem to have any pain.

We are officially in our new normal. She sleeps better than she ever did...longer and less interrupted. Overall she seems more relaxed. She smiles more than ever and has become more social and enjoys cuddling. She is eating more at each feeding, although feeding her is just a big pain...she hates it! (not because of the cleft but because of the colic and reflux). She will now lay on the ground and play with her toys, which never happened prior to surgery. She is no longer irritable, frustrated, and in pain like she was with the NAM and face tape. We have a whole new daughter.

Dale and I are adjusting well. It's funny how fast you become accustom to this new normal and don't think about the struggles of the past. Standing where we are now and looking at the final result I am so glad that we were as diligent as we were. There were many times when things were hard that people told me to take the NAM out or tape off for a night or a few days. They said it didn't really matter and it would make her feel better...but we never did. I knew she wasn't happy but I also knew that the quicker we got the work done the quicker we would be threw the surgery. The more diligent I was the better she would look for her lifetime. I owed her that. I had to take my mind off the screaming, off the sores, off the sadness, off the judgement of others and focus on the end result. And now were here and I'm so pleased. I can honestly say with all my heart there is not a single thing about the surgery I'm disappointed in. Her lips are perfect, pouty, and have an amazing shape. Her scars line up with the ones God would have given her without a cleft. And although her nostrils are not exactly the same, I don't even see it.

I took her shopping a few days ago and instead of bringing in the car seat, covered as it used to be, I carried little Danielle on my hip. I wanted to shout if from the rooftops. People now comment about how adorable she is, how tiny she is, how cute her outfit is, how precious her face is...no more do we get nasty looks, confused questions, or people pretending she isn't there. Looking at her in person you wouldn't even know. You could never imagine what that beautiful face looked like at birth. It seems unreal that we have made it this far.

I can recall the feelings of sadness, fear, and confusion that day she was born. I felt hopeless, helpless, and utterly overwhelmed. I wish I had known that day that everything would have turned out the way it has so far. But I guess that's part of the journey...not knowing and trusting in God. We survived these last few months. None of us are the same. It's been a journey I would never wish on my worst enemy but in the same breath I wouldn't take it away either.

Holding Danielle tonight as I fed her her bottle, I realized that for the first time since birth I've bonded completely with my daughter. I never realized I was holding back before but maybe it was a survival technique. A way of pushing threw the junk and getting what had to be done, done. But now as her personality shines threw, and I can see her smile and brush my cheek against hers I'm madly in love with the baby God gave me. She is no longer a patient of mine. She no longer breaks my heart as I watch her suffer.

I never thought it was possible to admire a little baby, especially one who is only 5 months old. But I do. I admire her strength. I admire her resilience. I pray those amazing qualities remain strong in her. That even though she tackled all these obstacles at such a young age she didn't do it vain but rather God used them to shape her into the woman He desires for His kingdom, to be more like His son Jesus Christ. I have to put my hope in that. It just helps me cope. Helps this painful process more worth it.

Our journey is far from over. We now struggle with chronic ear infections and her upcoming palate surgery in the next few months. We have an entire mountain to climb but I feel like I just topped a ridge and on the other side was a glimmer of beauty that God gave me to lay my weary head and rest for a bit in Him.

Big Girl...

2011-06-09T23:14:00.000-07:00

My little girl is not so little anymore...nope...she's a BIG girl!!
This month has brought on a lot of fun changes in Samantha. She has a new sense of independence and likes to do everything by herself. If you try and help she sternly looks at you and says, "No, me, Mantha"

Last month Dale and I walked in after Samantha's nap time to find this...

That little rascal was crawling out of her crib...but she couldn't get past this point so we decided before she figured it out we would move her into a big girl bed.

The transition has been easy and Samantha absolutely adores it. She goes to bed without any hassle and doesn't get out on her own but instead calls for one of us. Just nights after this picture was taken she asked for a pillow and blankets.

This big girl LOVES baking with mommy...

And apparently thinks she is ready for makeup...AKA...highlighter

And maybe even a bra...

But one thing this big girl IS ready for is the BIG GIRL potty!!

Samantha's first successful potty!

For weeks Samantha would ask to use the potty but when we put her on our toilet she would freeze up. So we decided she needed her own. We headed out to the store, let her pick out her own potty,

got her some big girl panties and the rest was history. The entire day she was successful at going potty all by herself.

She is not yet completely potty trained during the daytime but for the most part she is able to do it all on her own. Only a few mishaps. She loves the whole process, even washing her hands after. It is so neat to watch her be proud of herself and giggle with glee each time she run out to tell us she went potty.

A big girl bed...A big girl potty...Minnie Mouse Big girl panties...those are just a few of the wonderful ways my little girl is growing up into an incredible BIG GIRL!!

5 Months Old

2011-06-09T20:52:00.000-07:00

Danielle is 5 months old!!

She coos a ton and will hold an entire conversation with you

She has big dimples

She crosses her ankles when she eats

She takes about 3 naps a day

She has slept through the night only twice but normally wakes at 2am and 6am for a feeding

She smiles a ton

She loves to lay and play with toys

She adores her sister...

She's about 12.5 pounds and just over 2 feet long...super tiny

She has blue eyes and reddish hair

Shaking a rattle is the fastest way to get her to stop crying

She has extremely long arms and legs

She can roll from her tummy to her back and from her back to her tummy

Her colic is going away but she still struggles with reflux

She likes to be held at all times

She loves putting things in her mouth

She drools a ton

She drinks a full 8 ounce bottle 4 times a day

She hates eating and we have to entice her with sugar water...it's a nightmare!

She will only fall asleep in our arms...and then sleeps in her cradle

1 week post-op

2011-06-02T20:09:00.000-07:00

We made it through the first week and I couldn't be more thrilled with the outcome. My daughter is stunning!!

This surgery has changed not only her look but also her personality. She is much more relaxed and not quite as fussy. She is no longer uncomfortable and bothered by her NAM and tape. She likes to play with toys and cuddle...both of which didn't happen much prior to surgery. She will take naps in her cradle and doesn't mind being put down...a whole new world for us.

For the next week Danielle is restricted from tummy time and using a pacifier. We will keep the surgery site moist with Vaseline and have our post-op visit with the surgeon on June 20.

Post-op Day 6

2011-06-02T19:49:00.000-07:00

Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning Danielle was screaming her little head off. She refused to eat and I couldn't figure out why she cried out in pain with pain medicine in her system. Dale and I sat confused at 5:30 am until it dawned on us....Danielle hadn't pooped in 6 days....thanks to the narcotics. Dale rubbed her tummy and the crying stopped. After just minutes it smelled like success. While changing her diaper and the scant amount of stool, the flood gates opened...and I mean OPENED!! Her entire intestine emptied. Dale made me post this picture...he was certain you would all enjoy it.

Since she finally pooped we decided to stop giving the narcotics and continue only with Tylenol. She did pretty well all day and only cried for the ear infection. Eating is getting easier and she finally will take an entire bottle again. I'm relieved because she has lost some weight since the surgery.

I was also able to put Danielle back in an over the head onesie without fear of causing pain.

All Better!!!

2011-06-02T15:24:00.000-07:00

Post-op Day 5

2011-05-31T20:24:00.000-07:00

Post-op day 5 started bright and early. We had to be out the door at 6am to be checked into the surgery center at Children's Hospital by 7. Danielle was sent from my arms once again but this time only for a short time...her suture and nasal stent removal only took 5 minutes.

She was put under for the procedure and therefore needed to sit in recovery for a few hours. She did wonderful, ate 1.5 ounces and fell fast asleep. We were on the road home by 10am and she slept until nearly 1pm.

With all the stuff removed we can see our little girl for who she really is. This is the day I've imagined for months. This is the little girl I have alway pictured. She is in a great mood (well besides the ear infection) and is doing great with feedings. We are starting to reduce her pain medication and she is sleeping well. The surgeon said that the look of the nose and lip with change over the next few months and any inperfections in the nose can and will be fixed in future surgeries. I think she is just perfect...just as God intended!

Samantha was thrilled to see her little sister when we came home from the hospital. She kept pointing to her lip and saying 'all better'. Ohhhhh, so sweet!! Plus she wanted me to take a picture of her while I was shooting Danielle and I couldn't resist that smile.

Post-op Day 4

2011-05-31T20:08:00.000-07:00

As I said on the last post, post-op day 3 had been a little rough. Well day 4 was no better. She cried a ton, needed constant pain medication, didn't want to be laid down, and finally showed us what was really going on by tugging on her ear. I just knew she had an ear infection so come early afternoon we headed to urgent care. Sure enough Danielle was diagnosed with her 3rd ear infection in only a month. She was started on Augmentin and given her first dose before bed.

On a positive note Danielle ate out of her bottle for the entire day. She has started to increase her feedings to 4-6 ounces and even tolerated her NPO status by sleeping through the night before her suture removal. Such great eating and the fact that she has been sucking on her fingers shows that the pain is no longer in the lip but now has moved to her ears.

Post-op Day 3

2011-05-30T13:02:00.000-07:00

Sunday after surgery and we seemed to have a bit of a set back. Danielle cried more than usual and her pain medicine had to be given exactly on time. Feeding is still a struggle and takes both Dale and I, causing a severe coffee addiction during the day.

We have been getting lots of visitors and Danielle has been enjoying all the attention.

My dear friends from life and bible study have showered blessings upon us by bringing dinner every night. Sam is enjoying her little treats...

Her first fruit Popsicle

Someone left her a tad too long with her ice cream bowl!!

Post-op Day 2

2011-05-29T12:39:00.000-07:00

Saturday after surgery and little Danielle is starting to return to herself. The swelling is starting to go away and there's hardly any bleeding or bruising.

She smiled for the first time since surgery!! It was sooo wonderful to see and brought tears to my eyes...it was the perfect smile.

She also played for nearly 30 minutes and to my excitement she FOUND HER TOES!!!

Danielle tried her bottle for the first time today and drank almost 1.5 ounces although every other feeding is still using the rubber syringe. She is sleeping well and occasionally makes it 6 hours before needing more pain medication.

One of the greatest things about being post surgery is Danielle is a little cuddle bug! She just wants to be held and will lay quietly in your arms for such a long time. We haven't seen that side of Danielle before.

Post-op Day 1

2011-05-27T20:47:00.000-07:00

We made it 24 hours!! And Danielle is finally starting to get into a routine. Every 4 hours we give pain medications, have her drink 1-3 ounces using the rubber syringe, flush out her nostrils, clean her sutures and apply antibiotic cream. She has been sleeping good but eating is still a challenge. There is lots of screaming, thrashing about, and formula always ends up on me, daddy, the couch and all over Danielle's little face.

The swelling is increasing but the bleeding has pretty much stopped. There hasn't been as much bruising as I expected but maybe it will increase in the days to come. Overall Danielle's mood is good. There's not a ton of crying and she spends quite a bit of time just hanging out with us. I have yet to see her smile and she still seems pretty tired which is caused by the narcotics.

The first night...

2011-05-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

It's bright and early in the morning, the doctors just rounded and we will get to go home sometime today. We survived the first night but only with the help of the nurses. A few hours after Danielle came up to her room she finally opened her eyes...and only to the sound of Samantha's voice.

Her bright blue eyes darted around the room until they settled on her sister's face. Danielle sat starring at Samantha until her eyes slowly drifted back to sleep. Within a few hours she began to show signs of being hungry but the pain in her lip and throat (from being intubated) made latching onto the bottle pretty much impossible. The nurses came up with a clever idea and we used a rubber syringe to drop milk into her mouth.

She screamed and thrashed about as large tears poured from her eyes. It broke my heart and I couldn't help...I cried as Dale helped the nurses. She fought so hard she pulled out her IV and covered herself with blood. All we had to do was get some milk in her tummy so she would be able to tolerate her first dose of pain medication. With a ton of love, patience and diligence Dale and our fabulous nurse made her feeding successful. Once the pain medication was on board and some food was in her tummy she finally fell back to sleep.

Danielle continued to wake up almost every hour wanting more food. We cleaned the blood that accumulated around her sutures with q-tips, applied an antibiotic ointment, and cleaned her nostrils with saline. The crying has dulled down a bit but you can tell she isn't comfortable yet with a closed lip and her NAM out...it's just something new.

We will be coming back in on Tuesday and Danielle will be put back under to remove her external sutures and the tubes in her nostrils (used to help keep their shape and aide in drainage).

I praise God for our wonderful surgeon. We couldn't have chosen a better one!!

We found out that the surgery took so long yesterday because the surgeon practically did the procedure twice. He had completed the surgery and couldn't get over a 'buldge' in her lip. He wasn't pleased and decided to take the time to fix it. In doing so he realized he pretty much had to start completely over to get his desired result. It amazed me to hear that. It would have been so easy for him to walk away when the surgery was complete and just accept the disappointing 'buldge'. Thank you God for hand picking our team. They have forever changed our lives.

Surgery Day!!!

2011-05-26T08:05:00.000-07:00

7:30am-- Getting everything packed up and ready to leave. Smooth morning and Danielle is thoroughly enjoying her apple juice (clear liquid diet). So far I'm holding up well. Heading out the door soon!!

9am-- Check in at the surgery center. Talked to the surgeon, nurses, and anesthesiologist. Got her scrubbed down with antibacterial wash, NAM taken out and placed in a hospital gown

10:35am-- I handed my baby girl off to the surgical team. I could hear her cry as they took her down the hall. My tears have a mind of their own and I'm prayerfully passing the time. Family member and friends are by our side.

12:25pm-- Got an update from the operating room. Danielle is doing GREAT. Her vitals are stable and she is tolerating the operation well. We're enjoying the sun, good conversation, and a large coffee.

2:50pm-- The nurse called from the OR and told us the surgery should be done in about 40 minutes. Danielle is doing wonderful

4:15pm-- Surgery complete!!! A 3 hour surgery took nearly 6 hours but Dr. Tse was meticulous. He came out to talk to us and discuss the surgery. It took some work to get the asymmetrical cleft to look symmetrical but overall he is satisfied with the outcome. She will most likely have one nostril a tad larger than the other but this can be fixed in a quick future surgery. I'm getting so excited to see her!!

5:15pm-- Baby Danielle is back in my arms!!! She is just radiant and I can't stop crying.

Officially IN my 30's!

2011-05-25T16:49:00.000-07:00

I had the most perfect 31st birthday!! In the morning Samantha and I went to MOPS (mothers of preschoolers) and had a pampering spa day. The celebration lasted all day and then at night we had tons of fun planned. It all started with getting dolled up...

15 of us went out to dinner at the Crab Pot in Bellevue. It's a restaurant I've always wanted to visit and I finally decided my birthday was the perfect excuse.

The coolest thing about this place is how you eat. You get a bib, a mallet, and a crabcracker...and then the food is dumped in front of you. No need for a plate!!

My dear friend Julia showing me how to dig in!

Check out that beautiful food!! Snow crab, king crab, clams, mussels, corn on the cob, potatoes, sausage

and of course shrimp...

We had the most incredible time. I don't think I've laughed that hard in a long time. What a neat way to let loose and enjoy the amazing Seattle seafood. It was sooo special to spend the day with all my family and dear friends.

My mom even baked my favorite cake...yellow with chocolate frosting..and my wonderful husband added the beautiful decorations :)

After dinner Dale took the girls and let me go out with my friends Julia and Aleta. What a great evening!!! We hung out in the hot tub, ate cake, and drank wine. It was the perfect ending to the most perfect day!! Thanks everyone for spoiling me rotten!

In Just One Week

2011-05-21T13:31:00.000-07:00

In just one week...

We'll see our daughter without an open lip
We'll be home safe after surgery
I'll be able to kiss her cheek without tape
We will no longer have to clean a NAM
We will no longer have weekly appointments at Children's Hospital
We will no longer have to tape her face
We will no longer have to hear Danielle scream as we work on her molding
We will no longer have people stare with question
We can start tummy time and not be worried about her hitting the NAM on the floor
We will no longer have to carry our 'NAM tool box' with us everywhere we go
All the hard work will be worth it
We can really enjoy our daughter and not be overwhelmed by the circumstances
We will be trying to get our daughter to eat without too much pain
We will be cleaning her sutures and applying Vaseline EVERY hour
We will be flushing her nose out with saline twice daily
We will be giving Danielle pain medication regularly
We'll be up continuously throughout the night
We will be giving Samantha and Mackenzie (our dog) over to the grandparents for a few nights
We'll see her beautiful smile without an appliance

I've waited almost 5 months for this surgery but as I sit here I'm scared it's almost here. This house has been filled with tears. Dale wants it over with as fast as it can be, but me, I wouldn't mind another week. I'm scared to see her in pain. I'm scared to see her for the first time after surgery. What will she look like? How did the surgeon do? I'm scared to try and feed her. I'm scared to hand her off to a nurse, walk away and leave my precious daughters life in someone else's hands. I'm scared of the recovery and all it entails. I will NEVER miss the tape, the NAM or her cleft smile...NEVER!! I'm her mom and my heart breaks for her. I know I'll cry through the surgery. I know I will fall to my knees when they come out and say she did great. I know I'll cry when I see her for the first time. In fact I'm crying just writing this. I hold her and gaze at her precious little face. I am sooo in love with her. She is mine. Why does such a beautiful, innocent little girl have to tackle such obstacles this young in life? I know God's ways are not our own, and it is well with my soul that she was born with a cleft. I never need to know the reason why God allowed this but I'm sad for her and the struggles that lay before her. Our lives have been interrupted.

I am doing an amazing bible study right now. Jonah: Navigating a Life Interrupted by Priscilla Shirer. Week one we studied the privilege of a life interrupted. I had to share it with you because it's changed me...

"God graciously gives divine interventions to His children. He presents them an opportunity to partner with Him in purposes they could never conceive. A life interrupted by a holy God is a privilege. Believers must internalize this principle in order to live a life that accomplishes God's will. God doesn't need us to complete His purposes, yet He still chooses to ask us to partner with Him. It's unfathomable. His calling means that He has chosen you above anyone else to do what He is asking. You are the one He singled out and pinpointed as His partner for a particular project.
Whether it's parenting a special needs child or...He's purposefully given you the high honor of being the one He deemed suited for a task that has heavenly implications - a task of divine partnership that will yield magnificent results for you and for His kingdom. While these benefits might not be visible at the outset, a supernatural outcome waits on the horizon for anyone who chooses to partner to God."

Danielle's cleft was never expected. When you get pregnant you always just think that the baby will be healthy and perfect. This divine intervention has not been easy and it will probably get harder before it gets any easier. I'm overwhelmed about our lives 'in just one week' but I'm privileged to walk with God, feel His grace and His peace and watch Him at work in our lives and the life of our daughter.

4 months old!!

2011-05-19T09:30:00.000-07:00

Little Danielle is 4 months old!!

The outfit she wore home from the hospital

At her well child visit she weighed in at 12 pounds 8 ounces (16% of growth in full term babies). It's cool that at 5 weeks premature she is already measuring as big as 16% of all the full term babies. She was 2 feet 1 inch tall (66% of growth based on length)...she's a tall one! She is starting to wear 3 month clothing.

She smiles all the time and will hold a full conversation of cooing. She loves to be held all the time...loves her carseat...loves watching Mickey Mouse with her sister in the morning...loves to be swaddled...and she loves to be naked.

She sleeps in a cradle next to our bed and only wakes twice a night (sleeping through the night was out the window when she got her nasal stints). She is starting to enjoy toys, loves to hold her rattle, and is the biggest wiggle worm I've ever seen. Her hair is lightening and hitting a shade of red. Her eyes are still as bright blue as they were when she was born. She is growing into such a beauty.

She is definitely a mommas girl but her dad and her are two peas in a pod...

Happy 4 month birthday baby girl!!

Eating with her grandpa

A Completely Different Face

2011-05-17T17:11:00.000-07:00

I can tell people that Danielle has changed dramatically since her birth but I just wanted to show pictures so you could see how completely different she looks in just 5 months.
Look at the complete cleft on her right. The gap is very large. Also look at the placement of her center lip. It is pushed to the left.

Danielle at birth Dec 27, 2010

April 25th 2011

4 months later and she doesn't even look like the same baby!! Notice that the lip has been moved center, the gap is smaller and the columella (the skin between her nostrils) has been lengthened.

Danielle March 29, 2010

February 7, 2011

The 2 pictures above show Danielle's palate and alveolar (gum) gap. We have decreased the gap from a whopping 15mm to 4 mm. Also check out her nostrils. They are completely collapsed.

Just moments after birth Dec 27, 2010

Pre-op appointment 5/16/2011

The biggest difference between the 2 pictures above is Danielle's nose. The nostrils have been arched and have a beautiful shape.

After nasal stints 5/16/2011

She's all ready for surgery!! Like I said this process is bittersweet...but looking back all the tears, sores, cleanings, discipline, tape and appointments were worth it. She is BEAUTIFUL!!!

We miss you already!!

2011-05-10T11:02:00.000-07:00

April 20, 2011 we said goodbye to Dale's Grandpa, Robert Charles Cooper Landis.

Our wedding Aug 16, 2006

I have one grandpa (my mom's dad) whom I love with all my heart but he lives so far away. When I see him I feel like a little girl again...getting hugs, eskimo kisses, and just the mere scent of him brings back warm memories and feelings. Living in Washington I don't have a lot of family around and I've always missed my grandparents....But when I married Dale his grandparents took me in like I had been born in their lives.

Visiting Samantha...just 2 weeks old

They both shower me with love and although they don't take the place of my grandparents I feel just as passionately about them as I do my own. They are MINE! My girls adore them. They have loved spending time with Samantha, Dale, Danielle and I. We have had lunch dates a least once monthly since Samantha graced us with her presence. In that time we became close.

Celebrating Samantha's dedication Nov 2009

We had the chance to say goodbye to grandpa. I thank the Lord for that! I sat next to his bed, held his hand and told him how much I loved him. He looked at me and said, "I love you too kid, and those girls are perfect. Thank you for bringing them here to see me." Dale and I spent every day with our family and helped keep Grandpa comfortable. He was in the home he raised his family in and was ready to go home to be with the Father.

Grandpa's 84th Birthday. Dinners at the Spaghetti house.

I have so many special memories about him and I have only known him for 6 years. It was incredible to reminisce with the family and his dear friends about who he was in the past. He left a legacy filled with love, kids, grandkids, great grandkids, an incredible marriage and an example of how to serve others with compassion. I pray that I can leave such a great legacy.

Playing with Dale's new stethoscope after his graduation from nursing school, June 2007

3 generations...summer of 2009

I will see him again someday when it's my turn to leave this world and I find peace in that. He had such a beautiful and full life and I know that his world just got even better...he's in the presence of the Lord.

Holding Danielle...the day before he went into the hospital

Meeting Danielle for the first time. Jan 2011.

We love you so much grandpa. We will never forget all the incredible times we had, your laughter, your kindness, and your great hugs. We'll see you soon and in the mean time don't you worry, we'll take care of Grammie!!

My nursing school graduation (37 weeks pregnant with Samantha)

The birth of their first great grand baby... Samantha born July 14, 2009