Popsicle Lullabies

2012 Jump Start!

2012-01-17T11:37:00.004-06:00

This is where we started January 1, 2011. The Littles were really little.

Please forgive me for stealing this from Baby Bangs, a blog that I adore and follow. I just thought it would jump start my blogging again and help me to capture what happened in our last year.

1. What did you do in 2011 that you'd never done before?

Ran a half marathon.

My first marathon/mile 8

Lived with my in-laws while we waited to close on our house.
Went to grad school for my second Masters degree.
A massage on the beach.
Celebrated my three year old and my one year old daughter birthdays.

2. Did you keep your New Year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

Greg and I set goals for 2011, but they weren't really resolutions.

Our Welcome Sign When Arriving to Texas

Goals like:
A trip outside of Missouri - Texas
Potty train - Carolina
Wean - Little Elizabeth
Decide where we were going to live - Jackson Street
Date nights
Etc. Etc. Etc.
No resolutions, but directions. Make sense:)

Goals for this year are less specific: Be more compassionate, forgive quicker, be intentional in other's lives, read the Bible in a year.

Jonah

3. Did anyone close to you give birth or get married?

My Besties had a baby - Noa
My other Besties had a baby girl- Brooklyn
My niece - Lindy gave birth to Norah Rose Lamper.
Our cousin - Sarah had baby Jonah Asher Greenstein.

Brooklyn

Noa

Jeff and Kathy Orr

My sister - Kathy married Jeff Orr. Greg was their officiant. It was just lovely!

4. Did anyone close to you die?

Grandma Jewel and Kay Rodgers passed in 2011.

5. What countries did you visit?

I got to visit Mexico two times this year. One just with my man and the other with my girls and my man.

6. What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?

2011 was one of my favorite years. I hope 2012 brings Greg a job as a school counselor and that my counseling practice is fruitful.

7. What dates from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

I love you, Greg Vest

November 8, 2011 - The day when my man came in the back door and told me that he lost his job. I will never forget the look on his face. I am certainly glad our response to each other was love and tenderness. It's one of those days that you think is going to be the end of your existence, however it began the beating of my man's heart. He had been working construction for years. Probably the most educated construction worker I know, but he was doing it for me and for our little girls. That's how I could stay home. I had actually prayed that the Lord would let him get a job elsewhere. I had prayed to that I would one day get to clean out his work clothes drawer that was filled with caulk, dirt and grim of other people's houses. But looking back on it now, it was a drawer filled with manly work. A man that would sacrifice his own dreams for me. A man that dreamed of more, but asked God everyday to lead his steps. He was true to his family and he had his ear to ground asking God to show him when it was time. So when I say that November 8 is etched on my mind, it's more than just losing a job. It's the day that my husband knew God had more for him. It was the day we cleaned out his work drawer. It was the day he realized he could do his internship and begin the dream he had thought God had for him long ago. November 8, 2011, that look on his face turned to joy. Greg and I spent about 45 minutes afraid, but God suddenly turned it into joy. He is so faithful. Greg starts his internship on Monday at our daughter's elementary school. He is also going to be working closely to one of our newest favorite people, Earl, in the middle school in our county. I am certainly glad that I was the one he came home to that day and had to say the dreadful words of "I lost my job". I wouldn't miss this adventure with my man for anything in this world.

8. What was your biggest achievement for the year?

Ran a half marathon. It really is mind over body. I had an injury going in, but I talked myself through the run and ran all of it except for 1/2 a mile. Amazing achievement. Still can't believe it!

My broken

9. What was your biggest failure?

Speaking harshly to my children and husband.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

I broke my face on Thanksgiving day playing our annual football game.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

Our sweet little Cape Cod house.
The girl's passports.

12. Where did most of your money go?

Our new old house.

13. What did you get really excited about?

Selling our house after a long lease purchase and buying our darling little home.

Anticipating my girls view on Mexico.

14. What song will always remind you of 2011?

Running to you - Shane and Shane

15. Compared to this time last year, are you:
-Happier or sadder?

Happier! Can you believe it. Happier!

-Thinner or fatter?

My goal for 2012 is to find balance here. I was at different times thinner and fatter than I needed to be in 2011. (Stole this, but feel it)

-Richer or poorer?

Little bit poorer, but only in money.

16. What do you wish you'd done more of?

Cook dinner for my family.

17. What do you wish you'd done less of?

Hold grudges.

18. How did you spend Christmas?

We had planned a trip for our family to go to Mexico. We were planning on going the week after Thanksgiving. However, I broke my face so we had to postpone our trip for two weeks. It was the week before Christmas week festivities. It was the greatest trip. Our girls had so much fun. Greg and I had so much fun. It was weird to be in a tropical paradise hearing Felize Navida, but someone had to do it. So we did.

Our Christmas in Mexico

We had to miss Christmas with the Rodger family because we got into town late the evening of. We love that Christmas celebration so much and hated to miss it, but the ocean was a little bit more tempting.

Santa came to visit US:)

Santa made a visit to our home when we got back from Mexico. It was a wonderful surprise.

On Christmas Eve, we went to Greg's family. It was so fun. Our cousin Matt started doing these silly random poses which set in motion the human pyramid. So fun!

Christmas Morning, we spent the morning in our new home with our Littles. They had the best Christmas. Every year I say we had the prettiest Christmas tree and again I think we did. It was so pretty. It is weird I thought since Greg lost his job we would be lacking this Christmas. However, it was the best Christmas I can ever remember. We loved it very much.
That evening we went to my sister's house and ate like king's.

Our Sweet Morning at Home on Christmas Day.

Our cousins, Neil, Sarah, Hannah and Jonah came from Philly the next day. We spent the week around town and downtown.

Carolina ice skating

Carolina also had her first trip the ice skating rink. She was so brave and did so well for her first time.

U2 with the McCain's

19. What was your favorite TV program?

We got rid of cable about a year and a half ago and use Netflix. However, we did get into Breaking Bad, Sons of Anarchy and Downton Abbey.

20. What were your favorite books of the year?

Halfbroke Horses, Hunger Games, the study of James.

21. What was your favorite music this year?

Shane and Shane, Coldplay and U2 ( saw them this year)

22. What were your favorite films of the year?

The Help

23. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?

I turned 40 this year. Greg and I went to Mexico to celebrate. We came home and on the day of my birthday, our small group surprised me at one of our favorite mexican restaurants. I heart these people.

24. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

Leaning on Jesus like never before.

25. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2011?

Classic with a splash of sassy. Sometimes boring, but sometimes cute!

26. What kept you sane?

Burying my head in my Bible, sometimes sleeping with it. Getting on my knees to pray. Our Small Group and My Monday Ladyfriends!

27. What am I blown away by from 2011

Immediately after our friends and family received the text that Greg lost his job, they began to look around their house and see how they could give Greg work to do. What an amazing life we have. We are surrounded by the most loving and genuine people I know. They were truly concerned. Within the first 48 hours, we had a gift certificate for $150 to the grocery store and Greg had two side jobs on the books. He got on at Fort Zumwalt as a substitute thanks to my sis. Since then he has been busy helping others as they help us. God has been faithful to us. He is redeeming our life. Our friends and family will be blessed for thinking of us during our time of need.

Also, when I broke my face there was a tremendous out pouring of love for me and family. We had people offer to pay our doctor bills, bring us food and bless us with sweet gifts like flowers and pedi's.

Our life is rich. It is blessed and surrounded by God's people. Amazed by His love and their love too.

Thank you friends and family for your deep love. We will never ever forget it.

28. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011.

I really really really can trust God. His Peace cannot be described. He gives it to us in times of need. He does not want us to fear. He is for us. He knows our wounds. His grace is sufficient.

So here is to 2012. Love you friends and family. Let's see what this year holds. Hope it is the best for you. If your year is filled with ups and downs like ours was this year, we hope we can love you, celebrate with you or cry with you. Thank you from the bottom of our heart. You are the finest of things.

Some Of The Sweetest Things I Have Ever Received.

2011-09-21T15:43:00.002-05:00

So it's been four whole weeks since Greg and I turned to the key in the lock of this home on Jackson. I will write soon about Part 2 and maybe 3, but today I am focused on something else.

Today, I got the courage to hang some pictures. I have been a little tentative because I like thinking we just moved in. There is an excitement about being in a new home. There are excuses for not having your home in tip top shape when it's only been a month. However, there is a tremendous peace that comes with the feeling of being in your home that you hope to be in for the rest of your days.

While piddling yesterday and today, I am rummaging through the boxes that are labeled decorations, good stuff or keep! I truly am loving getting to these boxes. Going through the box of sheets wasn't the most fun I have, but since it's apart of moving I tried to enjoy it as much as I could. Sorry, boring side note. I am excited that I am finally to these boxes. Beds are made, clothes are in drawers, silverware is accessible and now to find a home for all the "Specials". So being knee deep in these specials, I realized that I have gotten alot of sweet gifts through the years. People pay attention to how you decorate right? And people have paid attention to my style and have joined me in it. Here are just a few and while writing this I forgot a few, but don't worry, they are in my special box:)

So this is a sweet gift from an old friend, Frank Victory. He was aware of my love for antiques and he sanded and scraped and sanded and scraped this down to this little beauty. She is an original potato bin. He found her in a barn/lean to building.

Love this line "When I saw it, I thought of you!" What a great compliment. When I saw this ole piece of junk that needs alot of work, I thought of you. Now that will preach if you ask me. It really does describe me:) But I take that as a compliment. I have had Mrs. Potato Bin for 17 years now. She has held pots, pans, target bags, gloves and others in need of historic housing.

In this same picture, those beautiful picture frames. Now, I do collect antique picture frames, but only after Greg's grandmother gave me my first two beautiful ornate picture frames that now display the beauty of my darling girls. I love to find them at a reasonable price, but certainly understand when a store owner keeps the price a little steep. (But hoping they cut me a deal)

My favorite for sure! Thanks Grandma for knowing me.

These are my grandma Delores' dishes. I knew her when I was a girl. My brother shared them with me a few years ago. Love them. I am still scratching my head wondering why he didn't want to keep them for himself (chuckle, love you Gene).

This little ole table came from my cousin, Sarah Greenstein. It was her grandmother who lives in Pennsylvania I believe. Sarah thought that I might enjoy it and she came home with me. Since then this little lady has been my diaper holder, book shelf and darling cold drink holder. I adore her. She's the type who has a little flaws, but you adore her for them. She is mine now. We love each other and she will be here at Jackson Street from now on. Thank you, Sarah. Also, Sarah just had a little boy! His name is Jonah Asher. What a name huh! Cannot wait to kiss him. He is a little brother to Hannah. We miss you guys and hope we can see you soon.

This is my newest "Oh, that looks like Kim!" My mother in law was in a thrift store in south city and found this little sweetheart. She gave it to me for my birthday. I am trying her in every room and looking for the perfect place for her. She is rickety, but wise if you will. I am certain she will enjoying holding a few pictures on top of her back so she can have a sense of purpose in this world. This is what she was made to do. Her mission in life. I will get you something soon, sugs!

And these.....ignore the dirt:) I love milk glass. I would love milk glass even in the shape of a rat which I hate rats, but I do love milk glass. But this little couple made it to my home a few years back. They were given to me by my Aunt Mary. She paid attention to how I adorn my home and she bought me these little beauties and an antique tea picture for my Christmas present one year. I love them and use them daily. I remember hearing her say "Thought it looked like you!".

Music to my ears. Gifts that make my heart skip a beat. I absolutely adore these things. They are on my favorite list!

A honorable mention: My uncle Mark refurbishes old antique radios. And low and behold guess what I got. You guessed it! An antique radio straight from one of my favorite people's collection.

And my BFF, Cindy's grandmother gave me a chair that she felt would be perfect for my home. (Rest in peace sweet chair)

There are others that I have missed and so I kindof feel like Coach Taylor/Kyle Chandler when winning an Emmy on Sunday for best Actor(best show ever Friday Night Lights). When I post, I will kick myself for forgetting you. So just know I will remember you!

I gotta get back to work hanging some pictures or maybe take a nap, but thanks for reading. It's been fun! So if you ever see a leg of a broken down table, chair or a smelly, odd broken down old thing, think of me. I love those types of things. Poetically, it is a reflection of my heart at given times in my life. But thankfully I have been loved in ways that have restored my brokenness.

Oh wait - see what I mean......

Enjoy your day. It's pretty here today.

Love to you all,
Kim

A Blog Post That Has Been Waiting To Happen Part 1

2011-07-29T20:38:00.005-05:00

This old house.

When Greg and I were early into our love, we made a list of all the goals that we had for our lives. The goals including trivial things such as owning a suit, driving on the autobaun, taking dance lessons and going to the Olympics. Other loftier goals were dreams of becoming a counselor, becoming a parent and owning and rehabbing an old house. We had no specific order that we were hoping for, but it was on our list. And like many dreams on our list the one of owning an old house came to pass.

And there she is, pretty Victoria on a cold winter day. She is even pretty without her beautiful flower gardens to adorn and compliment her beauty.

How it all began. It was on a weekday. I was on my way to work. I took the same route everyday. I drove by the same houses. But this day was different. When I came around the corner there she stood like she just moved into the neighborhood. She took my breath away. I had driven by her for years on one of the busiest streets in our town, but that day it was as if the clouds let the sun through and there she stood. I could not wait to see inside. I took Greg and a dear friend to see her glory and boy did she have some. The lady who owned her, loved her. She had so much to offer, but still so much more hidden away for just the right time or right person. Were we the right people for this beauty? We thought so. We decided to buy her.

Thirty days later, we, along with a trillion of our friends, were moving us and all our things in to this 1881, Queen Anne Victoria. I loved this old house. She was a dignified lady if you will. She was in a class all of her own. She had original hardwood floor all the way through. She had the biggest crown modeling a person of my status had ever seen. She also had the sweetest of porches and pitches, claw foot tubs, chandeliers, and old original wooden doors held on the frame by the most ornate hinges you could find. Plus, a scarry basement to add even more character if you are into that sort of thing.(we were:) She also had the most beautiful hydrangeas that grew the size of volleyballs, that when picked lasted forever and made the house feels even more lovely. This lady of a house was loved and we joined her fan club.

Soon after we purchased Queen Victoria, this home took her place in our life as our shelter. Looking back on this old house that is exactly what I know God used her to do. You may say that is obvious, but we had other dreams for her. We dreamed of gigantic parties, children climbing and yelling through the halls, neighbors sharing sugar and life becoming more and more grand for us.

However, during this particular time and at this particular shelter, we battled through some of the darkest and coldest of days. We wrestled with God and man in the halls of this home. We cried and covered our heads. We struggled to get out of bed. We buried hope. Listened for a heartbeat. We were a spectacle of struggles. Nothing good was coming our way. And everyone could see it. Loss after loss after loss.

We had a room full of friends and neighbors come and pray for our childless life. We had friends come to the back door on our darkest of days, pray for us and leave. Loved one after loved one to visit the devastated.

We screamed at God here. We questioned God here. We thought God had left us here in this lonely home. It was a season of intense sadness, The Great Sadness. But Victoria stayed steady, she kept us safe.

And after a while as the storm lifted, we lifted our head to our Lord. He had already forgiven us for yelling and questioning. He understood why. He never left Old Victoria. He was a permanent resident. And there He was as we had felt Him in every crevice of this home even when we were angry with Him. However, what I know now is that He was willing to be misunderstood on the account that He had greater glory in us waiting for the things we had asked Him for. He held us together even when we thought we had nothing left to put back together.

Months later, we found out about our little Carolina. She was coming to this old house. The clouds lifted yet another day. Sunshine came through the windows and we began to feel our heart beat again. We had to get ready for her. So we did. This is her nursery. I loved every inch of it. Darling......., my favorite room. Our neighbors had a wonderful shower for us and we spent the afternoon painting the flowers on the walls.

This picture is of Little Bit pitching a fit! It cracks me up! I mean she is madder than a hornet here. Little Bit in this big ole room just for her. We just dreamed of her, but had no idea what was coming very soon........

This is Little Bitty again.

This is the dining room. One of my favorite rooms in the house. Greg made this table specifically for Victoria. This room demanded a table with many chairs for entertaining. We did have some fun here at this table. Our table was our guest book. If you were a guest in Victoria, you would sign the bottom of the table. We still have the table and she may be used again one day.

See the pretty chandelier. It is original to the house. And again a hydragea. I guess I got inspired the days the flowers came inside:)

This was probably my favorite room besides Carolina's. Greg found the glory of the floor under many layers of blach. This is what he found and finished, the hardwood back to it's original glory. This room brought in so much sunlight. I loved seeing the birds and the squirrels in the backyard play and play. And note the hydrangea on the counter and the vases on the wall. See I told ya.

Some more hydrangeas.

But soon after Carolina came to our lives, I knew I wanted to stay home with her. How in the world would we be able to do that, we had no idea. During the "Great Sadness" days, we had tried to sell our house, but no takers. The economy was crashing and not everyone likes this type of house for their home. But we knew that we had to sacrifice other things in order for me to be with the girl. After waiting for so long to be with her, our priorities changed significantly. We knew what we had to do and we trusted that things were going to work out. We needed to sell Victoria.

In August of 2009, I put Queen Victoria on Craig's List for sale by owner. I put the sweetest pictures I could find of her and waited. I even toyed with renting it to some university students. Both options were posted and we were just waiting for a response.

While on a wonderful trip to Colorado, we got a call from a young man saying he would like to see the property. We explained that we were out of town, but if he was serious we could show it to him on Tuesday when we returned. He called us on that Tuesday to confirm and sure enough he came to the house to take a look around. He asked Greg then if he would consider selling the house. Greg said that we would, but was uncertain if this man was serious. Two days later, the man, Chris, contacted us to say that he was serious and would like to work out a deal. We are thinking no way, this cannot be happening. Seriously:) Really:) We had plenty of skeptics. We were trusting though.

Three weeks later, we moved out of lovely Victoria to a carpet filled home in a closeby family friendly neighborhood. Greg, Carolina and I were moving on.

That young man, Chris, was the best tenant a person could ever ask for. He told me on this first time officially meeting him that he knew that was the house for him. He said that he knew God and he felt God saying it was ok to do such a deal with some strangers such as ourselves. And after a long and enduring process that home is officially his. He loves this old house. It is now his home and his shelter.

Thank you Victoria all your love.

We enjoyed many parties and celebrations inside and out including weddings, dedications and discos.

Had the best little Thanksgivings Greg and our cousins have had to date.

Hosted many overnight guests.

Painted a nursery and brought our baby home to you.

Had the greatest of neighbors that shared more than sugar with us.

Thank you for everything, Queen Victoria.

You know all of our secrets and soaked up every tear.

Thank you for each memory. You were steady in the most severe storms, but beautiful on the sweetests of days.

Be good to Chris. Keep him safe too.

Just wanted to say hi!

2011-03-17T09:25:00.011-05:00

Elizabeth at 9 months. Isn't she lovely.

The race just wore her out. She also received her very first sunburn. Don't judge didn't realize little bit would get too much sun this early in the year:)
Our tiny dancer.

My baby girl.

Happy St. Patrick's Day to all of you!

I decided to just jump right in with a St. Patrick's Day post because it has been so long since I posted. Today my Carolina is dressed in a bunny outfit and Elizabeth is following behind her!
These girls! These girls! What else can I say except thank you for these girls!

Carolina just finished up her dance class. She did exceptional I might add. She has learned to walk on her tippy toes and smile big with her chin up! It might be something she wants to continue, we will have to see.
Elizabeth is pulling up on everything. She is a studier. She is studying about walking I can just tell. She is very smart and so incredibly lovable! Her smile just lights up the entire room! She was good at saying Momma, but now when I say Momma, she says "Dadda"! Drats! Is all I can say!

Our family had the best time at the St. Patrick's Day Parade in St. Louis this last Saturday. I ran my first 5 mile race and was so glad to say that I finished under an hour. Greg and my girls waited for me at the finish line. Really, they were the only thing that kept me going on the first hill on the second mile. Brutal to say the least, but I finished strong!
After the race we were able to celebrate our time with some friends, The O'Reilly Clan. We walked with our friends Mollie and Will with their family float. It was so much fun. Being in the parade is the way to go. You don't have to fight all the crowds! You can pick up the good candy along the road if you like and people like it if you wave to them:)

Well just wanted to say hi and get back into the groove!
Happy Patrick's Day! Just found out this was one of my dad's favorite holidays so I think he would have been proud of me on Saturday! Miss him! So cheers to Gene on this Happy Patrick's Day!
Enjoy your day and let's all chant "We want spring! We want spring! We want spring!
Love,
Kim

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-28T16:42:00.004-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to Everyone!

We and many of our friends have had an 18 or 19 year tradition.

The tradition is playing football first thing in the morning on the Thursday that celebrates the Pilgrims and their landing on Plymouth Rock.

This game has been played by the founders for many many years, but lucky for us they have extended it to others along the way.

There have been Pastors, Carpenters, Pilots, Lawyers, Accountants, Teachers, CIA Agents, Realtors, Mothers, Fathers, Husbands, Wives, Brothers and Friends, Penn State Alumni, Texans, Irish, Protestant, Catholic, Jewish and Atheist who have participated in this tradition.

Each year there have been play after play that have come from secret play lists and viewed by watching several game tapes from secret societies. The "W" or the "Tree" is called out from the huddle on any given game day.

The game goes by for two or so hours, but the soreness goes on for days. But who cares when the rush of the game, the smell of the crisp morning air and the fans from the side lines cheer you on.

The Game Day.

Here is the game 2010. On a new field with some new faces.

The fans.

The game is now over, but there is whispers of another one in the month of December. Stay tuned for those of you who couldn't make this game. You were missed.

I love the game of football on Thanksgiving day. Now that I am a momma I do miss catching the ball thrown by my QB1 hubs or snatching the flag off the tail of a competitive female which will go unnamed (she knows who she is).
I will be back dont' you worry.

P.S. Greg Vest is still sore today and it is Sunday.

After the game

We had a wonderful day with our families. Elizabeth enjoyed her first lemon. She really did kindof enjoy it and we enjoyed the look on her sweet little face.

And Carolina enjoyed a sweet time with her cousins.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all. Hope you all had the best day~
We are thankful for you.

Love,
The Vest's

Framily in the Fall

2010-11-28T15:17:00.013-06:00

Time with our Framily.
Framily = Friends and Family or Friends that feel like family which ever one fits.

Howday Partner, It has been a wonderful fall.

Where to begin:

Would it be the bonfire with the Sitarski's?

Or the bonfire with our small group?

Trick or Treating on Main Street?

Square dancing at church?

Or the Pumpkin Patch with The Vest's?

I mean it when I say we have had the best fall.

This is me and my sweet friend Belle at the church square dance. The Virginia Reel was a dream of mine. Since I am a long time fan of Gone With The Wind, I have always, always wanted to reel down the floor under the arches of my dearest of friends. And then there was the dosey doeing that took place with my man. Can't decide which one I loved better.

We celebrated our September, October, November birthdays with the Rodger's. This is Barb and Carolina watching the guys put up the "Goliath" size basketball goal at G. Rodger's estate. They are good friends as you can tell.

And so starts the season of desserts for Greg without his lethal enemy. God bless those who have compassion on my man and think about him before preparing a meal. You are not thanked enough! So thank you!

Love how her fat roll goes right across the "BEATLES". Perfect fit if I might say so myself.

Our family at the best pumpkin patch. I waited my whole adult life to bring my little ones here. They loved it. Carolina even got in on a pony ride. She absolutely knew what to do. So brave and enjoyed every minute of it.

Sisters, snug as a bug in a rug.

The girls and I had a nice little picnic next to the river.

Carolina made friends with a fireman at one of my races.

Blue eyes

Lina the lamb.

This is Lina and her bestie Lily at a bonfire we enjoyed together.

Besties

My girl with all her other besties. She invites all of them to nap with her. She would have it no other way.

My darling girl Carolina.

What a sweet season this has been for us. Hope your's was the same.

I have also had the privilege of spending the last 11 years with my man Greg Vest. It has been a wonderful ride. We spent our evening in the city at a great mexican restaurant and finished off dancing around a saw dusted floor. Would not change a second of it if it meant I couldn't be with you this very second in this very place. Our favorite song these days is "Dancing in the Minefield". Enjoy with us below.

Love all of you and hope you have sweet sweet holiday season.

Happy Birthday Carolina - Two Years Old

2010-10-05T07:55:00.010-05:00

Happy Birthday Carolina!

Aunt C and Elizabeth

Your new ride. Your friends enjoyed it too!

What a great smile huh!

Carolina Kimberly

I love it that you pray.

A. Jo

Your besties.

You're Special.

Hope you liked your party.

Miss Amber bought the Hungry Caterpillar decorations and don't forget her faithfulness in providing the chocolate milk (organic of course).

And don't forget that your Papa Vest made a wonderful caterpillar cake for you. Best in town I might add.

Lily showing you how to drive - foreshadowing I am afraid.

What a great gift huh! Love your new house. The Address was 2C. You already had house guests too.

Your housewarming party.

You are darling.

Happy Birthday Carolina.

We are so thankful for you Love.

You make our world more beautiful from your sweet little voice, your kind nature, funny personality, to your gigantic sentences that leave our mouths left wide open with disbelief by your delightfulness.

Cannot wait to see what is coming next.

You are an amazing gift.

I pray that you will be a woman of dignity and strength.

That you will love other's well.

That you will be sensitive to God and His voice.

And that your life will reflect the redemption that God has done in our family.

We love you so much our oldest baby.

Momma

Goodness x 2

2010-10-05T01:10:00.008-05:00

This is my oldest praying for her good buddy Tyler. She worried for him and prayed that God would heal him so he could just play and play.

Got some sweet sugar overflowing here.

Our daughters.

Their shoes.

Or boots whatever the day or mood brings.

First day for denim.

First day for pj's and golasha.

No it is not Brittany Spears it's my DAUGHTER!

My sister Kathy always trimmed her toenails by bending over to get them. Now it has been passed along to my daughter.

Chubby.

Making chicken and dumplings together.

Matching "Monkey" jammies.

And finally a shout out to the Beatles.

Girls I am crazy about you and cannot wait, but then again can wait til I share my lipstick with you.

I love you,

Momma

Elizabeth 4 months old

2010-08-31T07:53:00.012-05:00

Elizabeth Mae,

Since you have arrived on May 28th, this home has been tossed upside down. You can laugh if you want, it's ok. We have had to adjust to a new kindof life, but only a more beautiful life. I want you to know that you have made our already sweet world so much sweeter.

It could be your beautiful face.

It could be your sweet little smile.

It could be your patience with me.

It could be your patience with your big sister.

It could be that you were made just for us and God already filled you in on your new home and those who live in it.

You may have been prepared to have to wait just a second longer than you should have to. I am truly sorry about that baby. Sometimes your sissy just NEEDS something and she won't wait another second. She has learned to cry alot louder than you at this point.

I want you to know that I could not have asked for a better baby than you.

You sleep so good. You sleep in your own bed now. YOu go right to sleep as soon as we turn on your music. Amazing.

You eat so good.

You only cry when you are hungry. And even that I let you go just a little longer(sometimes) because you have the sweetest little cry.

I had asked for a calming force in my next child and He certainly did answer me on that. Not only are you beautiful, but you are just very peaceful.

You love to talk and talk. You are kindof loud just so you know.

You love your big sister. You either smile real big when you see her or you blink very very fast preparing yourself for any false move she may make.

You love to be held tight!

You love to be rocked and to nap with your momma.

You love it when the car is driving and you make your opinion known when it is not.

You love joining us at the table when we are having dinner.

You do so well taking a bath and letting your sissy insist that you make a "Funny face".

You are really strong and able to hold your head up for a long period of time.

I also can see that you are thinking about rolling over anyday now. You can do it Sweets, but make sure I am there to see it happen k.

I love it that you cry when you don't see me anymore in the room. I promise you I will always come back to you.

And I believe you are on the verge of saying MaMa when you see me:) Wishful thinking but a momma can repeat and repeat until you have no choice, but to say it.

This was your swim suit for the summer.

Sweetest little face.

Another suit that you looked just thin and fabulous in I might add.

Wow, words are not able to even describe your sweet little beauty.

Again, I think you are beautiful.

Another good look for you.

Steals my heart everytime.

Elizabeth, I love you my darling youngest child. You are beyond dreams for me. I cannot express how incredibly grateful I am for you and that I get to be your mommy. I will always ask God to help me be the best mommy I can be for you.

Cannot wait to kiss you in the morning.

I love you sweet thing,

Ma Ma

How old are you Carolina? "I'm Twenty Three Months Old".

2010-08-31T07:18:00.011-05:00

She often times cannot stand the thought of ever being away from her favorite shoe of the day.

She loves her Nana.

Decided that Woody would be best without his cap, but unfortunately for him it is not his best look. I can hear a southern accent "Somebody has performed a lobotomy on me". This is also her deciding that the more powder the better. Do not ask me where I was while this was accomplished because I truly do not have any idea. It happened very very fast.

What about that smile?

What about those shoes?

Potty Training her baby doll.

Her sweet little glow of a tan at the City Museum.

Again with her radiant smile!

She wore these shoes to the farmer's market the other day. The place shut down when she entered the room. Everyone, I mean everyone admired her boldness in fashion.

She is the greatest big sister.

They recently started sharing their room together. When she hears her sissy cry she says "Do you need me to turn on your music sissy?"

Look at her tip toeing. Love her!

Her daddy helped her and her sister make these cookies for me while I was away.

She made a wish...............

An Elizabethan Era

2010-06-08T17:28:00.004-05:00

You could say that we were waiting for the perfect pictures to post the newest arrival into our family, but that just isn't true. (although Cindy took some great ones just today!) I almost feel bad, seeing that I put up a post about Carolina's birth FROM THE HOSPITAL on the day she was born. So here goes, the official bloggy announcement:

Elizabeth Mae Vest

born May 28, 2010- 9:28 a.m.

7 lbs. 8 oz. - 19-ish "

It was way more relaxed and fun the second time, it was more about getting to see her than all of the other newness. She is a sweet girl, and beautiful if I may say so. She looks a lot like Carolina, but we get differeing opinions on whether she resembles Kim or me. She eats, sleeps and poops, so I guess everything is just as it should be. She is really a calm baby, peaceful even.

Carolina loves her sissy LIZBIT, although she hated being away from her mommy for four days. She has definitely taken to her since we came home and she is really sweet to her. She's not yet learned to be extra gentle, so we have to make sure kisses for sissy don't become headbutts, you know with that soft spot and all.

Carolina and our newest, Elizabeth

Carolina, Lily, Elizabeth and Ella- our girls and the Sitarski girls. This picture makes me melt and cringe...how did Brian and I get into this?

As sweet as could be.

The perfect gift, another girl.

To My Lovely First Born

2010-05-27T21:43:00.004-05:00

Dear Carolina,
You are off to sleep now. I am awake thinking of how my life has changed since you made your appearance some 20 months ago. It is as if my smiles are just a little bit wider and my fears are just a little bit deeper because you have effected my world with might! You make me braver and funnier because that is what you are my dear, you are brave!

You are the one person on this earth that gave me the courage to ask God to consider giving me another child. I would not have if you had not been so kind to us during these 20 months. I know He must have warned you about our inabilities. Your patience as our child has been so apparent and yet so gracefilled. You just made it seem like parenting was so easy and that I might be able to handle it again.

You are contagious. You are a gift from our God. You are a life changing force.

There is only two other events in my life that makes me know that God loves us so deeply that He gives us a miracle. A gift that is only because He loves us. You are that. You sealed the deal that makes me never ever doubt that there is a God Almighty who is absolutely crazy about us.

My love, I hope that you know that tomorrow is a gift for you too. You get a sister. A sister. I pray that you and your sister will be crazy about one another. That you finish each other's sentences. That you laugh at your private jokes. That you roll your eyes at your parents together. That you share lipstick and pocketbooks. That you skip, tell secrets and keep each other at their best. And that you will celebrate each others beauty..........

She has a wise little teacher in front of her. Teach her what you know. She will be lucky to know that at 20 months you should encourage others to "elax" or for you to tell them how funny you are or that you Need a sucker! You are more than my heart can handle so I have no idea what God is gonna do in the morning when I meet your sweet sister. I guess I should elax and trust that He will take care of all that.

I love drinking chocolate milk with you. I love giggling with you. I love napping with you. I love reading books with you. I love that you make a big deal out the big things such as tractors or birds. I love singing songs with you. I love praying with you. You know Him so much more than me huh? It has not been that long ago that you spent all of your days with Him.

There are so many because of you's....................But mostly because of you, the intensity of motherhood has captivated my heart with your sweet aroma. A force! You are a force!

So tomorrow the three of us turn to four. Don't worry my little one. I know it's gonna be more than our hearts can handle and it will be so worth it.

Night Night Lina,
I lub you,
Momma

Not a wet eye in the place.

2010-05-17T08:05:00.022-05:00

Who says "I am funny" out loud besides well ............me??? My daughter Carolina Kimberly does. She cracks herself up. She is hilarious and she knows it! The other day she just went ahead and declared that she was funny. "Mommy, I funny!"

"Not a wet eye in the place". This has been a little theme that we have had in our home these days. What I mean by this is our girl has found the art of fake crying. It's hysterical! When she uses her new skill she gets this wonderful pitiful look on her face which entails her sweet little lips leaping out like she is getting ready to play the horn! She is crafting her new fine art. Sometimes she will even lay her head down to give it a more dramatic effect. You gotta see it! The thing is that she only does it for us, so how will you ever believe us right!

To catch you up.......I will begin with Elizabeth Mae coming next week. Scheduled C Section @ 9 a.m. on Friday May 28th. Now if she comes earlier, no complaints here. My friend Tricia predicted sometime this week so I better get some laundry done. I saw Elizabeth on Friday and I will see her again tomorrow morning. She has a lot of similar characteristics as her sister. She has big cheeks and a more rounded forehead. I have seen her smile. I have seen her with her wrist in the air waving it as if to say "I WAS SLEEPING HERE!" I have seen her trying to get that sweet little thumb in her mouth. We are so thankful that we get to see her at every single visit. We know that this is a gift. It certainly does provide assurance that as of that minute all things are as they should be. As I double check the list - packing for the hospital is all that is left.

For those of you who may not know , one of the many reasons I fell in love with Greg Vest is because he plays the guitar. Greg is my troubador. Greg's romance with music and ability to dance with any instrument mesmerizes me. I become a love struck girl filled with stars in my eyes. The girls in his home are certainly his biggest fans! It's his therapy if you will. You know when he reaches for a dance with his guitar it's because he is missing it and needs to say some things. He did this one evening while she went off to sleep. What little girl gets that? My little girl gets that! A lullaby sung by her daddy! Goodness sakes!

Carolina is very musically inclined. I do believe that Carolina is convinced that her life has background music. It has a sweet and faster beat to it. She likes it that way. And the girl has some talent. She can pick out a piano part in any Harry Connick Jr song. And can the girl sing you ask.... Oh man can she sing like bird. I think she might even be writing her own songs with the ballets and show tunes she comes up with. She sings hallelujah along with Sandra McCrackin like nobody's business (her grandma gets a kick out of that for certain). She plays the drums with the chop sticks her uncle Gene gave me. And by far besides her mother's air drums and other instruments, Carter, the drummer from The Dave Matthews Band is her idol. She says "I play drums"! She gets a kick out of herself. She strums her momma's guitar at least once a day. I am often time left with stars in my eyes at her as well but that probably doesn't surprise you!

We have the girl's room ready. We decided not to paint in hopes of not being here past our lease date next April. But besides that the girl's have matching bed clothes "Simply Shabby Chic". Just simply love it! Don't you just love it when you love it just right?

Carolina has moved to a toddler bed. It has been a struggle for her. We often times find her on the floor because that is where she gave it up. I don't understand the whole need to sleep on the floor, but she must. I trust her judgement. When she is done from her nap or so she thinks, she knocks on the door to let us know we can come and get her. When did she get big?

Elizabeth will use her big sister's crib which was originally Greg's bed when he was a baby. Today it is filled with wonderful gifts that we have been blessed by. Like true Cindy fashion, she blessed Elizabeth with her own set of monogrammed things. She did this for Carolina as well. They are keepsakes for certain. She also made the girls "Big Sis" and "Lil Sis" matching tee's! Love them!

We have an antique chifferobe that would allow for some shelving so Greg made some great shelves for more of the girl's clothes. Can you believe that? Needing more room for girl clothes? Shocking!

My mom and I have been quilting two quilts. One for each girl. The quilts are patchwork and lovely if you ask me. What I love the most about these quilts is that my momma and I have sewn them together. I just fell in love with stitching each patchwork piece together by hand and enjoying a lovely conversation with my mother about sewing, her mother, and about the girls. It has been such a gift. The second thing I love is that my mom and Greg's mom had the forethought of saving some of the dearest and sweetest of our clothes. Dress after dress, John John after John John we were able to have. I kept them in an old suit case for along time, but since the quilts came up, we decided to incorporate them into the patch work. I could not be more excited about this! How sweet is that! Thank you Mom and MaryAnn. I have already started Carolina's keepsake box so don't worry I will pass this sweet gift along.

The only thing we are waiting for now, is well of course our Sweet Baby and she and her sisters new ride. The Chicco Together Double Stroller. I double checked and it is on a ship as we speak coming from the South Pacific! Sounds mysterious.......Need some background music to go along with this huh!

Carolina will be starting a new little toddler class tomorrow night. The Wiggly Worms! It's here in New Town at the Organic Farm. She will be spending her afternoon with her new friends learning about being on a farm. I can hardly wait. She has no idea, but will be pleasantly surprised I am absolutely certain of that. ( pictures to follow)

Most recently, Greg's dream of his girl being a huge Cardinal fan has come to pass. She went to her first game and stayed the entire time. She rooted for Wainwright! Yelled "Play ball!" and sang "Take me out to the ballgame". The only thing she was not fond of was the fireworks when they hit a home run. She certainly appreciates the tradition, understands the need to celebrate a home run, but is uncertain why such loud noises!

Now when she sees a red and white uniform or any other uniform she instantly says "Cardinals" or "ballgame" . This morning her request instead of Yo Gabba Gabba was to watch the Cardinals. No lie! I promise you!

We received a membership to the zoo from Greg's sister's family. We absolutely could not love it more. Carolina and I high tail it there any chance we get. We have been able to ride the train at least one time every month since then. We get a sweet little discount at our favorite snack bars and save time and money parking in the fancy parking lot! It's great! Two weeks ago, Carolina and I went with the Sitarski girls. As if that was not fun enough, we were able to see the Stingrays. Don't worry for those of you who instantly say "What about the Crocodile Hunter?" We made it out alive! I love it when Carolina has a day in which she has to tell the whole world: "Train" "All aboard", "Tigers" "Stingray" "Wash your hands"! Lasting impression on the little lady!

As for Greg and I, we spend our last weekend celebrating, resting and anticipating the arrival of our newest love. I have no idea how God gets your heart primed for such an event, but He is being faithful to us during this time of preparation and anticipation of the advent of our second child Elizabeth. Still wake up from time to time and have to look and see that I have a big belly with my second child moving around in there. It is such a dream come true for us. Thank you all for wishing this for us, praying this for us and celebrating this for us.

Just before I wrap this up just a few things I am looking forward to. Of course my daughter's meeting each other, kissing my new daughter and watching Greg and Carolina kiss her too. Dancing around the living room with my girls.

Bending over.

Drinking a huge glass of orange juice.

Tutti Mare.

A glass of wine with my hubs.

Not having to take antacids at bed time.

Walking without losing my breath.

Getting a gym membership to New Town gym.

Volunteering at the Beth Moore Conference in June. Maybe I will get to meet her. Elizabeth is going too so maybe that will be a draw. Bethy loves babies especially those with the same name I am guessing!

Taking a deep breath!

Thank you Lord for my family. I love them like only you know.

There are so much more that I probably should catch you up on, but instead I will let the pictures speak for us.

Love to all of you,
The Vesties

Just right before Elizabeth - Slideshow

2010-04-19T16:52:00.004-05:00

We took the amtrak train to Chicago for a little adults only weekend. We had a great time talking, walking, laughing and eating. Kim is the best traveling companion, even 8 months pregnant. We were having such a great time that we took ZERO pictures, so all of these are pilfered from the internet.

Took a brief walk on the beach. Chilly.

Nice used book store, picked up some 1950's kids books for the girls.

Kim loves Anthropologie, so she found a little heaven here.

We ate dinner at this great little Irish pub. Good fish and chips!

We didn't want a full on boat tour, so we took a $4 water taxi ride and got to see the city from the water.

Kim has never been to Wrigleyville, so we took the red line up there to walk around. The game had just gotten out, so she said it felt a little like Mardi Gras. When your team is terrible for 1oo years, you have to make it a party or it's just no fun.

We did a little shopping for the girls at the Gap on Michigan Avenue.

We stayed at the Tremont Hotel, right by Water Tower Place at Michigan Avenue and Chestnut.

Random Goodness

2010-01-28T21:08:00.006-06:00

Good evening, It's just me and my baby in my belly and the laptop. Thought I would blog a thing or two. My man is in the woods with his possey! They have all gone to shoot things except for Greg. He will be nestled up nicely next to a fire with a good book. That's my man, he is fly fisherman not a hunter. He is ok with it. He just went to get in as many belly laughs as he can possibly get. And looking at the guest list, it will not take long.

The girl is upstairs asleep.

Luke is lying on the floor asleep.

And the refrigerator is making the oddest noise. Kindof like a war movie mixed together with a chairsaw reving up. Not too concerned about it. I know my strengths and refrigeration is not one of them. So moving on....

I would like to introduce you to our new toothbrushes!

Aren't they just about the cutest couple you have seen in a while. Could not pass them up!

I would like to also introduce you to the reason for the new couple coming to live with us:

SURPRISE!!!
It does not take her long to take over what she fondly calls "Teeth" in her high sweet pitched voice.

Interesting enough Greg was always confused why I did not really like sharing a toothbrush with him. He would forget or lose his toothbrush and took liberties in using mine. I would nicely ask him not to use my toothbrush. I wasn't saying that I didn't love to kiss him or that he had funk mouth. I just did not like the whole idea of it. You just never know right? Greg would bring the debate to different audiences and still found the same response: No! You don't share toothbrushes! (Thank you people!)There is just not a good reason to share a toothbrush with anyone!
But all of a sudden, a new toothbrush has found it's way to the grocery list and it is Greg's handwriting.
Hmmmm.........
Why might you ask?
I asked the same question myself.

Kim: "Why do you need a new toothbrush, your's is not that old?"
Greg: "Um because the girl decided to dip it in the toilet and put it in her mouth"
Kim: "My point exactly!!!!"
BAM! Just like that Greg needs a new toothbrush!

So nobody is sharing toothbrushes anymore in this house. Thank you Lina for putting the kabosh on that debate. She put the smack down on that idea and her daddy appears to have a different opinion about the whereabouts of a toothbrush.

Oh my word, can't really believe she would do such a thing can ya?

Random Thing Number 2:

Little project I worked on this week: An old mirror and a $2.69 piece of glass from Jeling Hardware. They cut glass for you cheap. That is where I always get my glass!

Next the mounting of one of the most adorable pieces of art I have ever seen. CKV received this print from Johanna for Christmas. Wait to you see it up close.

Be still my heart. It's the truth. - Carolina just stay little, I mean it!

Although the glass did not go all the way to the top of the mirror, I still believe it blends in nicely. Can't really tell unless looking at it closely.

The little love hanging sweetly over her bed.

Thank you Jo. We absolutely love it!

Our doll representing her neighborhood!

Good night!

Hope you all have a great weekend.

Thanks for reading.

Love,

The Vest's

What's in a name.....

2010-01-22T09:04:00.006-06:00

I am writing twice in a week! This a record. Just wanted to answer some questions that were asked about our sweet little doll.

I am 21 weeks, which turns a new week every Friday! I am not having any more morning sickness, but I had it in the truest of forms in the very beginning.

We are naming her Elizabeth Mae Vest. We got very lucky with this beautiful name because it makes alot of people happy including us!
Elizabeth is my mom's grandma's name.
It is the favorite name on Greg's Grandma Hart's side as well. Grandma told us that someone's girls on the Vaughn's side, evidentally alot of girls, all have Elizabeth as a middle name!
Then to top it off, Mae is my mom's middle name and both of Greg's great grandma's names! How bout that!
This girl is bound for love wouldn't you say!
Oh it could be possible that she is named after Victoria Elizabeth Welton. Greg told Matt that was the case so shhhhh don't tell her anything else, lots of love from Guam will not hurt a sweet soul!

But don't think it hasn't crossed Greg's mind that she will be as gorgeous as his young man crush - Eliz(s)abeth Shue.
I know the man - he has thought it!

Some people may think it's a bit premature to name our darling, but we like to call her by name. She feels like an Elizabeth. After we saw her and all her glory on Thursday the name just came right to us.

I would have to say that one of my heroes in my life has been Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. I was always drawn to read about her surprise from God at her very old age. However, I don't think I am quite as old as her, but still I am certain we would have our own inside jokes from our AMA diagnosis. AMA stands for Advanced Maternal Age. It cracks me up when I see my diagnosis! Mercy - poor Elizabeth. What would her diagnosis be? RRRAMA - Really Really Really Advance Maternal Age? The one thing that we certainly have in common is that we know our child is from God. She even said "The Lord has done this for me". I am certain this never lingered far from her mind. Especially since she was carrying the best man to bride groom. Oh how I would have loved to have been back then with her. She and Mary, pregnant at the same time. Mary pregnant with Jesus. One young, one old, still stunned by the gift! One throwing up and one holding the other's hair back, but having to throw up because it made her sick too! Borrowing each other's maternity clothes. One going into labor first and the other one saying "Um that looks like it hurts". YIKES! "Maybe we should invent an epideral". Looking up the heavens giving some more suggestions. Zechariah still not being able to talk because he felt the need to inform the angel about he and his wife's dx RRRAMA. He probably should have shushed if you asked me. I am certain Elizabeth probably giggled to herself about that. Maybe even saying under her breath, whoa it is about time! She probably knew it was divine to keep her man's mouth shut for that long. I am certain lots of pictionary was played on his account.
And poor Joseph! Wonder what he was thinking of all this! Couldn't talk to Zechariah that is for sure! Bless his soul! All to bring to us the Savior of this World. What a sweet time!

But here in A.D. - My first born just crashed into my thoughts and just climbed up on the chair and got my attention by saying over and over again "Hi""Hi""Hi Momma"! Grabbing my face to look at her's. It never gets old. She has the sweetest voice I have ever heard. It just melts me. I love being her momma! Two girls!!!! THis thought has overwhelmed our minds and our hearts! We could probably short circuit if there was a possible way! They will be a joy and delight to us for certain.

Love to you all! Thank you for praying for our sweet family! We are praying and hoping for God to give those just like Elizabeth a sweet baby soon!
Kim

Would like to introduce you to our sweet little daughter Elizabeth

2010-01-18T09:49:00.006-06:00

We had our 20 week huge ultrasound on Thursday. What we saw was something that my heart could not explain, the love for our newest and sweetest and pretty little daughter. It is an excitement unexplainable. I mean just knowing that as of right now all things are as they should be with our girl. This gives us an extra gigantic sigh of relief and an peaceful grin all our own. We love her already and cannot wait til she gets to be with us. But until then I will have my time with her while I get bigger and bigger and she kicks my ribs and my bladder. Oh motherly bliss! I have had a wonderful pregnancy so far. Please continue to pray for our sweet little baby and for our family.
Love to you all,
The Vest - Greg, Kim, Carolina, Elizabeth and Luke The Dog

Pumpkin Pie, Prenatal Vitamins and a Pretty Sweet Life

2009-11-30T13:03:00.009-06:00

Hi Everyone,
Thought I better get to this before this gets out of hand.

First and most importantly, Greg and I found out recently that we are gonna have another baby. We are so excited about this. We held our breath for sometime because we were uncertain how to accept such a blessing in our lives. We did not do any procedures. We did not drink any potions or swallow any miracle pills. The good old fashion way if you will. Greg and I just said recently with the miracle of our daughter Carolina, we did not have the audacity to ask God to bless us again, but He did. We are so thankful for this privilege and so thankful that our sweet little girl will have a sibling that she will grow old with.

We are always still praying and hoping for those unable to have a baby or those who anxiously awaiting to hear if they get to have a baby or have another!

We are 13.5 weeks. This pregnancy is going kindof quick. I guess because I am still having trouble believing that I am pregnant (except for the increase in my waistline, that boy happens fast the second time). Dr. Herrmann has been generous and has allowed us to come and see the baby every week. He said he would like to help us wallpaper our home with ultrasounds. The last ultrasound we could see our little one, great heartbeat, it has been ranging from 178 to 150. This ultrasound you could also hear the baby swishing and turning, we even saw a little wave if you can believe that.

I am a little less nauseated this time around. It hits me more often in the evening and especially when I take those gigantic horsepill size prenatal vitamins. The only true craving I can say has overtaken me is The Southwest Chicken Salad from Hardees. You should try it if you haven't. It's on the Red Burrito Menu. It's is a wonderful party for my pallet. I have been known to eat at least five in one week. Yikes!

Who would have known that Greg and I would celebrate our TEN year anniversary with a baby in my belly. It was a wonderful evening. I mean it when I say I would never want to live a day if I had to do it without Greg Vest. He has been the most incredible lifetime traveling companion. I cannot even believe how God has blessed us and after all these years we still love deeper than ever.

To celebrate our anniversary we had our second overnight date without the girl. Greg's parents were very kind to come and stay at our place and we headed down to the city. We stayed at the downtown Hilton and headed to Mango for some Peruvian food. Then after dinner finished up our evening with a giggling walk around the bustliest part of the city. We finished with a night cap at Charlie Giggots. My favorite a cup of restaurant style coffee and a big piece of chocolate cake. The next day we woke up at 8:45. This was the first time I was able to do this since I was about 7 months pregnant with the girl. It was heavenly. We took our time getting up. Then off to enjoy the rest of our day. We went to Soulard for some vegetables. Then to Kicker's Corner for some wings and a burger and topped it off by stopping in at Shottzie's in South County. We got home about 4 p.m. and we were both so glad to see our girl.

This month has been filled with lots of celebrations. I just love November. We hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

This Thanksgiving looked a little different than the last 11 years for Greg and I. THis was the first year that I was unable to play in the annual Thanksgiving Turkey Day Football Extravaganza! Although I wasn't able to make it, of course my man was up and out of here! Jon picked him up at 8:20 and he got home by 11:20. They played hard. For the next three days I would hear a random OOHHHHH, AWWEEE, OUCH! And there was an obvious scar from the gladiator like affair on my love's ankle. It is all very worth it to my man! If Greg were to get pregnant, have to stay home and watch Carolina, it would drive him crazy. CAGED LION is all I can say! But luckily that wasn't the case this year. He also received a few texts from fellow team mates stating how they were unable to tie their shoes without needing help getting back up!I believe that even our pastor John who plays with them found it important to talk about it on Sunday. It is a very Godly thing to play football on Thanksgiving morning. I will be back next year don't worry. I hope Cindy will too unless she keeps making more babies!
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving - we went to 3 different places. Julie's house on Thursday. My mom's on Friday evening and my brother's on Saturday. The weekend finished up with a house warming party for my niece Stacy. She got her first place and we showered her with things that make a house a home. Darling little place and we are so happy for Stacy and Kayla. What a sweet little surprise and it couldn't come at a better time of year! She even got her own Christmas tree. I am certain she spent the rest of the evening putting her lights and ornaments on the tree! Oh how wonderful!

Other things that have been going on with us. Greg is planning another trip to Guatemala. This time the trip will be just a men's team going to serve those in Guatemala City. THe trip is planned for late March 2010. More details to come soon.

Greg and I have been asked to start a new basecamp or Bible study in our church. We are excited about this. We have been meeting with our pastor on Monday nights to get us prepared and ready for such an amazing adventure. Our group is not just going to be studying the Bible. We want to get out into our community and help those in need. Recently, Greg and I met a beautiful couple from North City. They pastor at a missionary baptist church in the city. Greg and I would like to offer them help or those they may know of in need. They also asked Greg and I to be thinking of how we can help them with their ministry serving the families of homicide victims in the city. It would be an a amazing privilege to help them in this capacity. We are looking so forward to seeing how this is going to come to fruition.

As far as me, I am still seeing clients at the practice. Greg and I are still seeing clients together which continues to be such a joy and a challenge in our life. We love it.
Next week I start teaching sociology again. Soo excited! Syllabus is updated! I loved my last class and hope this one goes just as well.

Lastly, my newest weekly goal is to strum on my guitar for five minutes a day. You see my man bought me this beautiful melodic piece a few years ago for my birthday. I picked up learning the cords quickly, but the strumming well let's just say has been more of a struggle for me. I think Luke covers his ears when I pick the guitar up! I want to get better at this. My goal is to play a few Indigo Girl songs like nobody's business.

Our darling: What has she been up to? She is growing and growing. Can't believe it. She is climbing on the furniture. She has got some rythym and breaks into dance at any given moment. She will not keep a barrett in her hair to save her life and she has a new name for us "Daddamomma". I don't think she want to take the time to say both of our names so now she throws them in their together. Just now she came over to me with a picture of Lily Sitarski and said "LuLu". She loves her LuLu. I just love it that both Lily and Carolina have given each other nicknames. Lily was the first to call Carolina "Lina" and it stuck. I am not certain if Lulu will stick, but we definitely know who that is around here!
One of my most proudest moments - This girl keeps her nose in books. She loves books. She reads them to herself, studies them and sometimes says what she thinks they say outloud. But this topped it all. In early November she and I went to the zoo with Cindy and her girls and our friend Michelle and her boys. We took sometime at the Malayan Bear exhibit. There were many reasons why these bears kept us interested. You can let your mind wander some, but don't go too far. So while we were in awe of some of there love and ways of showing affection, Carolina breaks out in her rendition of "Brown Bear, Brown Bear". She said it with the perfect cadence that she and I read it in on most days. She put two and two together. And what topped it off was that other people heard her! They could hear her saying something and purposeful! I mean SPEECHLESS!!! PRICELESS! I will never forget it. She knew she had done something wonderful too and clapped for herself!
Recently the girl has gotten a little lovey with her baby dolls. I took her American Girl Bitty Baby doll out of the box and as we speak she is taking good care of her. It is so interesting to watch the maternal instinct kick in to a young woman. Beautiful to say the least.

This month Carolina gets to meet two of her newest friends. Matt and Vicki are coming home from Guam for a visit. It will be our first time to meet Kyra in person. Can't wait to introduce Carolina to her. Then if that weren't enough, Neil and Sarah are coming to stay with us for the holiday. They are bringing their beautiful Hannah. Carolina has big surprises ahead! Just cannot hardly wait!

Well I guess that gets me caught up on all that has happened and is gonna happen around here for now. This Christmas season Greg and I are gonna try to focus on the the real reason for the Christmas season. We are looking for a family to serve or give to so if you have any ideas, please let us know.

I want to finish with saying Happy Birthday to many people this month: Cindy, Steve, Kathy, Pat and Glenda.

Thanks for hanging in there for this long blog, but I just couldn't let it go another second!

Love to you all and we hope you have a wonderful holiday season.
The Vest Family

Wow, So much has happened since we talked last!

2009-10-05T12:52:00.011-05:00

Good afternoon sweet friends,

What a whirlwind this last few months have been for us.

First of all, we are settled in our new home. We like to call it our "Little Row House on the Praire". We live in a row house in New Town and it literally(Jon I know you think literally is overused, but wouldn't you say that literally is appropriate here?) is across from a "Prairie in Progress" Hence the name is fitting wouldn't you say?

We love our simplified life. Our new neighborhood is just lovely. Greg and I have always wanted to live in the city and have our people(church, friends, family) around us at the same time. Now I am not trying to claim that New Town is the "Concrete Jungle", but it is a wonderful garden of what we really wanted most for our family and in our neighborhood. We have walked more in the last month, well, than in our whole life.
Luke loves it here. He gets to walk everyday, play frisbee with his dad just across the way in the park and if he is lucky he gets to take a dive into the lake. He had no idea what was happening when his pack was packing up their things and hauling them off. A little unnerving to say the least.

We liked to think of it as "Retirement". It is a refreshing rest from working on a historic 1881 home in Old Town. Believe it or not I don't miss the old house. Having an old home was always something I always wanted and may go there again sometime, but am thankful for the rest from the constant work of it all. Coming from our sweet victorian to our row house leaves lots of time to be together which was what we wanted most. Greg has to mow, but that literally takes him 3 minutes. We are resting, reading, giggling, cooking, riding our bikes, and spending time with friends. We are so thankful for this time in our life.

As most of you may know, Greg and I met while working together at TGI Friday's. He liked my buttons or my flair if you will? And at time still likes to push my buttons. Right after were were married, we went on to work in Colorado together at a residential treatment center for trouble children. We have always loved working together. Since we left Colorado, it is something that we have longed for and have prayed to get to do again. And as of late, Greg and I have been able to work together. For sometime now, I have set up my private practice at Freedom Counseling seeing clients one night a week. Greg has always been welcome to see clients as well, but it has been slower going for him because he is already working full time elsewhere. We have gotten the privilege and have been seeing a married couple. We love it and them. It took us just a little bit to get our groove, but it appears that we with God's help, have been able to get our swagger on. Greg truly is gifted as a counselor. I do admire his love for clients. He cracks me up like no other. He uses his comedy in his counseling as well. He is not as Dr. Phil as many of you would have guessed. He has not in my presence told a client to just get over it yet. The biggest deal is that we are so thankful to be able to do this together. Greg has 3 other clients. I am up to 8 and just love it. We are just so dang thankful for this in our lives.

But then there is the girl. Lina as she likes to call herself. Waving at strangers and giving them the flirty grin. She is still stealing our hearts and making our belly hurt from giggling so much. She knows she is a crack up! Here are some of her newest accomplishment: climbing stairs with and without permission(naughty), blowing kisses, oh and saying "No" under her breath of course. She knows what a cow, chicken and goat says. While on our walk she starts with these noises. This is for us to know that she wants to go visit the cows, goats, chickens and pigs at the farm here in New Town. She loves to dance. She has some great moves. She is a little lover and will without prompting plant a big one right on the lips. What a Lovey! She at times gets a sweet spell and goes right over to Luke and gives her all her loving!
As we speak she is saying her newest word "Luda luda luda luda" Can't helped but say it myself. She is just delicious.
We had our first visit to the emergency room. Carolina conked her head right on the corner of the chair and the biggest egg came pertruding right out of her head. It was horrific. Jo is my witness. She was our saving grace. We rushed to the hospital just to find that they could tell I was a new mom. I don't think they giggled in the room with us, but maybe as they felt the door shut right on their tush. Yes, I know now that you want a gigantic egg to come out of your child's forehead. It's a good sign (huh?). They just patted me on the back and might have said "there, there". They sent us off with hopes of a black eye in the morning. So that was $150 lesson, but I am thankful I know now. So if that wasn't enough, Greg was taking Luke an Carolina for a walk. Luke saw a rabbit and pulled over the stroller to give the girl another egg on the other side. So at one point in that week, our little doll had horns and dark circles under her eyes. I am not sure we introduced ourselves in the neighborhood that week. Was afraid of an anoynmous call regarding the care that she is receiving. Yikes what a week that was!

Carolina made it through that week and went on and celebrated her first birthday last Saturday. The day before, well I spent it crying. I was having a little bit of a time believing my darling is one year old. I mean when they say it goes quick, they are not joking! With her in this world things are easier to prioritize. She just makes it just a little bit more prettier!
So back to her birthday. She was a doll. She loved her cake. Bite by bite you could see she was enjoying every minute of it. She even offered others a bit with her cake filled hands. She is very generous as you can tell. She did not get too many takers, but she didn't take it too personal. She just kept on eating. She got her first table and chairs. Didn't realize she is a little short for it, but she certainly will grow into it. She also got her first American Girl Doll. Who gets an AGD at age 1? She also received so many other sweet gifts some from out of town even and we cannot thank you all enough for celebrating our girl. If you were able to make it, we missed you. Thank you also for loving us. It is incredible.

Hope you all enjoy this time of year. We love October. Can't believe it has been a year since our girl was born. Wow!

Love you all,
The Vest's

An Even Bigger Smile!

2009-09-01T14:10:00.002-05:00

I am unable to show a picture because we are in the middle of moving, but today I saw it! I saw what has been making my sweets kindof cranky! It was her little second row of bottom teeth. One is clear through the gum while another one appears to be just underneath the surface! These teeth have been really tough for my girl! She usually isn't cranky, it's been kindof "Girl Interrupted"!

Hope you all are great! Be back soon! Greg and I are moving to New Town this week and next! Love it there so far! Just love it!

Kim

"Lina"

2009-08-22T13:54:00.003-05:00

Just had to post the most recent wonderful thing our daughter has done. Well last evening the Vest family spent the evening visiting with New Born, Beautiful, Baby Girl Ella Lynn Sitarski. I love her alot already! Greg has the touch. I call him, and others have as well, the "Baby Whisperer". Her momma is in love with her. Cindy said that Ella has stolen her heart and that Lily is just perfect with her new role as big sister.

Ever since Lily Marie Sitarski knew Carolina she has been informed as to who she is in her life. And it pleased our hearts so when we heard Lily say for the first time "Lina"! We just loved it. She will see pictures of Lina and wonder where she is. She even saw a picture of me before Carolina was here and she asked where Lina was. Just darling.

So this morning Greg, Carolina, Luke and I all started our day with family time. It's the time we have while we decide what is for breakfast and what we will do with our day. It's my most favorite time of the day. We get alot of attention from our girl. Lots of kisses and giggles happen at this time of day. But this morning was different than any other. Something extra special came from Carolina's mouth. What was it you ask? Well it was "Lina"! Glory Hallelujah! We asked her to say it again and she did! What is your name Carolina? "Lina"! OH GLORY TO GOD IN THE HEAVENS!! They weren't kidding when they tell you every single day is something better and wonderful!

I almost can't contain myself and I find it very catartic to share this incredible moment! We feel bad from time to time because she has a list of "TRICKS" that we often put her on the spot to do. She is very picky as to when and who and when and where she performs! This has been added to the very tip top of the list! This is on top of the cherry!
Love to you all,
Kim

Sing along with me "So much to say so much to say so much to say"

2009-08-19T09:25:00.011-05:00

Our girl on her first real vacation to the mountains.

Belle is not really a dog fan, but she is a Luke fan......It's really kindof sweet the love they have for each other. Luke has a way with the ladies unless he is covered in horse muck.......

Greg and Anthony before one of their day adventures fly fishing!

Is there anyone else besides me that likes V8? Well I kindof cracked up about this.......
Fancy Vegetable Juice - Giggle Giggle!!!!!! Yep it's fancy alright! No bad, not bad!!!!

Well I just decided to sit down and grade some papers so here I am blogging. I saw the importance of blogging over, well my student's paper! Don't tell them or others I said so. Right now I am listening to the sound of my beautiful daughter yell out "Momma"! She does this all day long. It's our little thing I guess. Kindof a role call, but with a little bit more sass to it! Carolina is talking alot: bird, George(curious george is her stuffed animal), ball, book, Duke(Luke)and somethings we are not certain she is saying, but she sure does mean it! Also when she hears our phone she holds her hand up to her ear and say "ALLO"! Then she says "OOOH"! What a crack up! She is watching us!

Our girl has started to walk full time since I blogged last. She is great at it! My momma said that she couldn't catch a hog with those legs. She a little on the bow legged side, but they say that is what comes with an early walker. We'll see. She is steady and can turn around with a little bit more finesse than a truck driver turning from the local Lion's Choice. No one wants to jack knife if you know what I mean? She is also climbing stairs when she gets the opportunity. She looks like the cat who ate the canary when she is spotted! Thank goodness for baby gates! With walking brings a new adventuresome life for me and her daddy oh and don't forget Luke The Dog. He has to be on all 20 of his toes to make sure she doesn't infringe on the little life that he holds dear to him such as his frisbee. The other day Sister had his frisbee. He stood at attention looking and wondering how he is gonna get his paws on that frisbee. She yelled at him "No"! I guess he had enough and he went for it. Leaving her little legs and bottom in the dust! He has to fight for his rights around here these day. The look on his face sometimes says "My goodness can't I have a thing to myself" or "Back in the Day".

In July, Greg and I went for a wonderful short vacation to South Park, Colorado. There is nothing like the mountains and a man in fly fishing gear. I mean I just love wadders and my dimpled face man in them. We had a wonderful time with our friends Anthony, Belle and their family. Luke went with us. His most influential and memorable moment of the trip was when he saw the horses and went right where they eliminate and smeared himself right in it. Yes, could have been a long ride home with such a smell, but Greg was gracious enough to take him in the cool mountain stream and wash him with none other than Johnson and Johnson Bedtime Bath. It's main ingredient is Lavender which if you do not know is soothing. Needless to say, we scared the rainbows and the big brownie fish while getting the "Elimination" off of our dog. He was effected by the shampoo and he slept for a good portion of our day. Just a plug for J&J.....

We just recently sold our house. We are so thankful for this. We are moving to New Town. We call it our Little Row House on the Prairie. You'll see when you come over. Feel free to come on over anytime. We are moving the first of September!

There are just so many wonderful things happening in our life. Like right now, Carolina and Luke are playing in the toilet! Who taught her how to lift the seat? Wow can't a girl blog for a minute. Yep they are still at it! Where is the towel? I mean towels???? EWWW SHE JUST PUT IT IN HER MOUTH!!!!! We hope you all are doing great! Fill us in on your life when you can.

Our cousins Neil and Sarah just had their first little girl - Hannah Claire - WOW SHE IS PRETTY!

Would like to officially ask Ella to come on out and meet us! Cindy is being induced in the morning. Can't wait to see the pretty little thing. August 20th will never be the same!

Love to you all,
Kim

Best Daddy Ever

2009-07-10T16:43:00.002-05:00

Kimmy come back here and look at this......

2009-06-17T08:05:00.009-05:00

Me and my girl

Gorgeous!

Mad as a HORNET!

Parents as Teachers would be proud. She loves it! It's like her own space ship or tent....

Carolina's Uncle Gene

Look at those linen pants! Delicious!

Doll Baby! Yes, her shoes are gold!!! Thanks Janie and Jack!

If you haven't tried these, go right now.....YUMMY! We bought two boxes!

Blueberries! She loved them.

So as many of you know Greg and I are Mexican food addicts. We are not in treatment or care to join a group except a group that meets at mexican restaurants for bowls and bowls of chips and salsa. But let me tell you what makes us a little different than other mexican food lovers. Sunday we just left our friends and decided we couldn't wait to eat until we got home and we must stop. Our friend Jo lives about 4 miles from us so you can see why we thought we wouldn't make it home without a stop at the local watering hole El Agave. We hadn't been there since Saturday, the night before, which was another reason why we knew we must go. We have friends at El Agave. They like our daughter. They bring us all the chips and salsa we need and sometimes Greg gets a bowl and I get a bowl. Now that is service. So back to the point! So anyways after leaving New Town, we rushed to El Agave. Greg parked and went to the back of the car to get the girl. When he noticed some mashed carrots.......Mashed carrots is something we do not just keep around in the back of the car for those of you wondering. The "mashed carrots" were everywhere including our pretty little girl's mouth. Greg said "Kimmy come back here and look at this." We investigated more and found out that the mashed carrots were coming from her little bitty diaper filled with other sorts of mashed mashy mushy smelly yucky things that were now all over her, her three little teeth and now all over us.....So what would any mexican addict do you ask? Cleaned their daughter up as much as possible and take her on in and order our favorite - fajita for one(split it). Didn't miss a beat! No real reason to. Yes, we both took our turn washing our hands in the restaurant which is quite nice in case you were wondering......

So if that is not gross enough, read on. Closest call ever in all of my motherhood....Luke had a tick on him that popped off because , well because I guess it was full as a tick. Well it popped off right on the kitchen floor. DISGUSTING! YOU COULD BARELY SEE THE LEGS, BUT THEY WERE MOVING! UGGGGHH. and before I knew it, the girl had it in her hands going for her mouth.... I DOVE TO THE SCENE! EMBRACING THE BLUCCKKY THING IN MY HAND AND RUNNING FOR THE TOILET TO END IT'S LIFE IMMEDIATELY! OH MY WORD! That was the closest call! Don't judge! How was I to know? It happened so fast! Words can't describe the horror! The what if'! Sometimes you have to kill a life to save a life!

Take a breathe. I realize this is a riveting blog entry. Take your time. Wait......Ok.... Move on.

But on a softer and sweeter side. The other night, I don't even know if I can even do this story justice, but here goes. The other night we went to New Town for a reggae fest. Really fun, great time, great company. We went with our neighb's Ed and Leah. While we were there we took a long long walk around the place. Wonderful place. So the girl was in her stroller, not strapped in, but content. She dozed off to sleep, but before settling in, she turned herself right over on her belly and snuggled in like she does in her own bed! COULD NOT BELIEVE IT! WHAT A DARLING! COULD NOT BELIEVE AND STILL CANNOT! I mean she went off to sleep! She turned herself over and went off to sleep. I know you had to be there to get the best picture, but it was wonderful!

Carolina has 3.5 teeth. The top teeth were brutal for her. She wasn't herself for sure!

She is doing well. She is taking naps everyday and sleeping through the night. She has got "Bye Bye" down well. She is still saying "Dadda"! She is a great little lover. She gives kisses to almost anyone which we have to be careful with. She just feels the love and goes for it! Oh the love of a babe! She talks alot. I know she knows what she means because she just keeps on saying it! I am not sure how to spell all the things she says or I would share specifics, but just trust me on this one. She is truly a speaker of truth and wisdom. I can tell....

Also wanted to share that I will begin teaching at University of Phoenix in July. I am pretty stoked about it. Teaching Sociology. I always wanted to teach college level and am so thankful for this opportunity.

This summer we are anxiously awaiting many new babies. Greg's sister Julie is having a baby girl - Lexi. Our cousin Sarah is having a baby girl - name to be announced. Cindy is having her baby girl - Ella. Looking forward to meeting these sweet little girls. And just tomorrow, a new baby Shaw will be entering in to the world. Our friends Jeff and Gayle are having their second boy tomorrow. Can't wait!

Hope you all are having a great summer and thanks for catching up with us.

I have to share this right away.......

2009-06-03T21:15:00.003-05:00

She is learning to use a spoon.

Her first day in the pool and in her bikini!

This was the shirt her daddy wore on the day she was born.

But I have to share what just happend. It is blog worthy!

So just a few seconds ago Greg and I saw one of the sweetest things I think all four of our eyes have ever ever seen.

We just went upstairs to start our nightly rituals. Lady bug turned on - Check. Mix tape/cd singing - Check. Aquarium and swimming fish lighting up the room - Check. Praying for our girl - Check. Sneak back over to the bed for one last peek. Hoping to get our eyes filled with all her beauty so that it will keep us full until we get to see her in the morning. So when we did what we saw was our girl lying on her belly, hind end sticking straight up, and our girl reaching out with her hand to get her baby doll. She pulled the baby close and went off to sleep holding her baby close in her arm.

Goodness Gracious - All I can ask her is "CAN I HAVE MY HEART BACK?" GEEZ LOUIS! We stood with our mouths wide open watching our baby show affection to another without anyone watching. Good Glory!

Oh My Word Should Really Be Oh Our World.....

2009-05-29T20:46:00.010-05:00

Mother's Day

She takes naps in her own bed now.

At my mom's house the day before Easter.

This is the smile I talk about below. This was Easter Morning.

Mother's Day with my two favorite loves.

Her pulling up.

Oh Our World...............................................

That's exactly what has changed since we blogged last. Oh our world has changed so much in the last six weeks. Not only has our babycakes turned 8 months old, she has accomplished many many things. She is doing terrific. The little lady has two teeth on the bottom now. What a darling sight! We believe that her top teeth are coming any second too. Can't wait to see what her little grin will look like then.

Easter morning was so sweet. We put Carolina next to her Easter Basket and you would have thought she knew she just received a gift. Her smile as you can see was genuine and filled with laughter. She just loved her little basket. Greg and I were so surprised how lovely she was about her basket. That just made the rest of the day even more lovely. She has that effect on things especially her parents.

Is that background music I hear. You would think this girl's life has some background music going because she is becoming the Dancing queen. Carolina has got herself a little bit of rythym. It's hilarious. She will just break out in dance at anytime. She loves music. She cracks us up.

This month we also had the tremendous privilege of dedicating her. Greg and I have waited, well, our whole marriage to dedicate our child back to God. So in April, Greg and I dressed up and got our girl in the car. Drove to church and cried the whole way there. We were overwhelmed with the privilege and love that we have to be the parents of this strong little miracle. We had such a great day. After the service, our backyard filled up with friends and family. Those who have wept, prayed, believed and celebrate now our gift from our Lord. I have to say that on that day, I knew what Hannah felt like. She is a woman in the Bible whom I have felt many similar emotions. First when she begged God to give her a child and secondly when she promised the Lord she would give him back. So this day was special. Just special and powerful. I know that our God was with us. Our celebration was a blast. Our last guest left at 10 p.m. Lots and lots of hamburgers and laughter. Can't thank everyone enough for coming and witnessing our devotion to our God and rearing our child to know him.

Another wonderful celebration is Mother's Day. I had no idea how much I would love Mother's Day. It's is way way better than my birthday. Who cares about your birthday when you get to be a momma. For all of you waiting to be a momma, I can't wait to celebrate with you too! Greg and Carolina took me to Soulard for veggies and fruit. Then off to the Hill for a hot salami sandwich. Then we spent the afternoon at the Zoo. The day was topped off with a delicious meal cooked especially by my love. AHHHHH what a nice day that was. I loved every minute of it.

Speaking of laughter, we have a giggly girl. What that does to our hearts. We try almost anything to get her to laugh. We are unplugged around here to hear that joyous noise. Her giggle makes us giggle. And she thinks she is funny. Seriously. She kindof cracks herself up. I think she tells herself jokes in her new little language(DADAADAAAAKEEEEEDAAAADAAA, sounds kindof like that) that only she knows and just breaks out in giggles. And yes, she says Dadda. However, she no longer says momma unless I am not in the room. She says it to other people. Greg is her dadda and she loves him to pieces. When he goes to work in the morning, she waves, yes I said waves, and says "Dadda" and waves. Likes she knows Dadda gone bye bye.

Her biggest accomplishment of the last six weeks - Started the weekend of her dedication in April. Just one day Greg and I were sitting there and she army crawled over to the table and pulled herself clear up and looked around like she was BIG! She was BIG! I THOUGHT I BROUGHT HOME A BABY! NOW LISTEN I AM THINKING OF PUTTING A BRICK IN HER PANTS! ANY OTHER IDEAS? I said army crawl before because now she is crawling like she has been doing this for years. Now we know she hasn't because she hasn't been on earth for a year, but you would think by the way she moves she is an Olympian crawler. The girl has become unstoppable. We are childproofed until we realize that we aren't childproof. We have pillows blocking every cord or any possible tantilizing naughty thing she can chew, pull, grab which can lead to something possibly crashing down on her perfect little pretty little noggin......I THOUGHT SHE WAS A BABY! NOW SHE IS BIG!!! No more just sitting and admiring our little love while she lays quietly on the designated area we have allowed her to lay. SHE RULES THE PLACE!!!!!!

We couldn't be more happy about this little life in our home. Making noise, eating dog hair, giving Luke her food,getting in Luke's bowl spilling things, smelling things up (good and bad), giggling and filling us with love. What a girl! What a girl!

We hope all of you are having a wonderful summer! Thanks for reading about our baby and our life. We love you.

G, K, C and Luke the dog

6 month old Sugar!

2009-04-07T06:53:00.000-05:00

The Sleeping Picture is the Hippo with the Binky tossed to the side!

Good times! Good meals!

Gypsie Girl
Love bug of our lives!

Good morning everyone, I felt it a sense of urgency to get a new post out today. The reason for the urgency is because we are waiting the advent of Carolina's first tooth. If you were to take a quick peak you could see a little white spot just under her swollen gums. It's not like Carolina is unaware that this is happening. This has been a difficult time for our girl. She has been quite a woman about the eruption of her first pearly whites, although at times, the pain has been too much for her to bear.

The last few weeks have been filled with so much excitement. Where do I begin? Well first, the long and loyal friend "Baby" the binky has now become yesterday's news. She is actually offended when you offer her binky. When she does communicate about her feelings regarding this matter, it is not quiet. Which means that she is not quiet! Get it? So our assumption is that she is saying "I can't believe you think I would ever ever want such a thing." Like we are the crazy ones. As if to say "I am so past that!" Now don't get me wrong, it is kindof a like a bad habit for her sometimes and she will pick it up just from time to time, but she doesn't want to have to explain her reasoning for it. And we do not ask......

So her "Baby" has now been replaced by another transitional object - Her stuffed baby Hippo. We only give it to her when it is time to rest. At night she grabs it with all her love and strengtht like they are going to break out in the Tango or do the Cha Cha. She is thrilled to see her hippo and then they go off to sleep.

Other wonderful things that have happened in this last couple weeks......
Lots of talking, well "MOMMA MOMMA MOMMA", but still no "DADDA DADDA DADDA". But we are still working on it.

She is very affectionate and will plant a good one right on the mouth. And if you are not ready for it, well all the drool available for her teething, will smear or drip right on your chin and possibly down your favorite shirt. So be aware. She is a lover!

We have added some new food to her menu: spinach and butternut squash plus a little apple juice. She loves it and does so well with her food. Have to say that the only thing she is not fond of is bananas. She gaugs when she tastes it. It's almost Oscar worthy and cracks us up. We continued to try to give it to her, but she would seperate it from the other food. So what you are hearing me say is that she likes SPINACH better than BANANAS! We will revisit this in a couple weeks!

On the home front: Greg and I have been trying to get our old house up to par for the summer. Lots of hard work lately. We found out recently our porch is rotting so Greg is hard at it trying to replace the old rickety porch. The good thing is that since we live in a historic area, we are eligible for a facade grant. So we are in the middle of making up a proposal for the city so that we can rehab this beautiful old thing just as if it were 1881. So keep your fingers crossed. Other than that, we are spending time working outside getting the gardens ready. I used some of the giftcards I received at Christmas on Saturday. I bought a tree and other shrubs ans roses which are warm and cozy in my front parlor. I wasn't about to let the little loves freeze this week. I have to say that I have never hosted a Weeping Cherry Tree before. It's fun and I have taken "Talking to your plants" to a whole different level. I think I might ask if they would like some of my coffee this morning. So when Global Warming kicks in again, well Carolina, Greg and I are out in the front yard if you can't find us in the back or in the house.

Side note: It's nice to be able to bend over this spring. Last spring I was too sleepy because I had a sweet little Carolina in my belly. Then you saw what happened to the belly! Which made it difficult to bend over and weed a garden. So I am back at it! I love dirt under my fingernails and in my toes. I hope everyone enjoy their Spring time. I want to get this done now because we want to be at the Zoo, festivals or Forest Park. Wanna come too? Please let us know!

Oh we want to give an endorsement. Vivianno''s Market on the Hill has two bottles of wine for 7 bucks! Which that in of itself is great. However, my new thrill is from The Lost Vineyards of Spain. Sound Fancy? Well it's not, but you are still gonna love their Sangria. YUMMY! My Father-In_Law share this love. It's the type of goodness that you have to squeeze or shake real hard when it's all gone. A moment of silence is necessary when your bottle is echoey. The message that is sent back to you through the bottle neck is "Go Get Some MORE QUICK!" You gotta get some of this tasty goodness and get it quick!

Well tomorrow, Carolina and I will be out looking for an Easter Dress for the Sister's first Easter. I have a couple in mind, but will need to narrow it down. We also will be getting her picture made with the Easter Bunny if we time permits!

The most important thing about this season is remembering why we celebrate Easter. Not just because my beautiful Dogwood trees have their debut and shows off for the Robin who is trying to find a place for her nest and babies. But it starts for me on Thursday night. A time which is so sombering, Jesus in the garden. It is the beginning of redemption and forgiveness for this world. I still struggle with people working on Good Friday! I like it when it rains around 2 in the afternoon. I play my favorite song "High Noon" by Andrew Peterson. And Saturday,always seems a little quiet to me. Then early Sunday morning the time has come when Jesus says Mary "Why are you crying?" And she replies "RABBONI"! She sees that He is alive and is standing in front of her. Her Savior! The Savior of this world! I just love Easter!

Well I had a lot more to say that I realized. Thanks for listening. Hope you and your family enjoy your Easter or Passover. We love you and are thankful you are in our lives.

What a big month for our girl.

2009-03-20T18:59:00.000-05:00

This last week was a great week for Carolina. Her biggest accomplishment for this week was sitting all by herself with no props, no assistance or spotting. She is truly an accomplished sitter. She loves it and is offended when you just might suggest that she would want to lie down for some strange reason. Lying is for babies!

This last month has also been focused on introducing vegetable and fruit into her diet. Greg and I went to Soulard Market, one of our favorite things to do on Saturday, to get all the produce and spent the rest of the day pureeing and freezing cubes and cubes of zucchini, squash, sweet potatoes, peaches, plums etc. She has really enjoyed every new and fancy cuisine served to her. Not a picky eater so far maybe a little bossy if I don't get it to her mouth quick enough, but that is nothing new. The girl expects speedy service at her restaurant.

St. Patrick's Day was spent at the park with her grandma and me. In the picture you will see her sporting her authentic onesie straight from Ireland. A shout out to her Uncle Gene who made sure to remember her when he traveled there in the fall. What a lucky girl!

Also it's cute to see her with a little tan. She inherited beautiful olive skin and it serves her well on beautiful days at the park. Don't worry I have a supply of sunscreen for her little nose.

We are in love with her and she is growing leaps and bounds! We are so thankful for our love.

Love to you all,

The Vest Family

I'm Carolina's Momma

2009-03-11T21:58:00.001-05:00

Our Sweet Girl.......They are right when they say that every single day brings something sweet. She is growing so fast. The most important event in recent history is her sweet little voice saying "Momma". It is breathtaking. This morning about 6:10 a.m., Greg and I both heard her wrestling in her bed. Then as sweetness entered the darkness, I heard "Momma". I was up and in her room quicker than you can shake a stick. When I reached her little nest, the biggest smile was on her face! OH GLORY!

These are the days to remember! I wish I could just bottle all the smells, smiles, sounds and memories so I can have them for the rest of my days.

Me and C while her Daddy is off to Ski

2009-02-28T08:12:00.000-06:00

Good morning everyone. It's me and Carolina. We are here at home while Greg is in Colorado skiing. This was Greg's Christmas present from me so I have no complaints of him having a wonderful vacation and not taking me.

So Carolina and I have been hanging out this weekend which is much like what we do throughout the week, but it feels strange not having our favorite man arrive on the scene everyday about 5 p.m. We have made it two nights now, but are thankful we just have one more to go.

Greg is skiing with our dearest friends, Brandon and Ed. Then today he gets to see our nephew Nick who lives in Colorado and who loves to snowboard. Colorado trips are Greg's nirvana. He loves Colorado, loves to ski and he loves to be with his friends. So he is got it going on for sure. I think the next best thing for him would be all those things and that he could fly fish in a cold moutain stream after along hard day on the slopes. But don't get me wrong, the man is planning his fly fishing trip to New Zealand. We have a belief that if we say it out loud, there is power in that and it will come to pass. So that is exactly how he brought it to me. "Kimmy, if it's out there, it will come to pass. I am going to fly fish in New Zealand." I has worked for us on a lot of wishes so try it........

So enough about his vacation. Carolina and I spent the evening with my sister last night. And today we are plannning to attend a baby shower. The isn't just any ole baby shower. It's a shower to celebrate Baby Girl Welton. Greg's best friend since I don't know is having a baby, I mean Vic is having the baby, but Matt's gonna be the dad. Got it??? So we are so excited for them. They will be great parents. Then this afternoon, well we are free to see what our day holds.

Just an update for those of you who were expecting a blog on my master gardening classes. Well I have decided that in this season of my life, I am going to not take the course all at once. I am taking the classes one at a time. For those who want to join me, the classes are sometimes held on Wednesday nights for two hours or sometimes on Saturday for two hours. You get the picture. I loved that Greg knew that this was a wonderful gift to me, but I would rather spent my days in my garden and learn a little at a time, being with my family instead of spending 18 weeks in a classroom(which I am sure would be an amazing classroom, but still). And besides I exchanged the course for a nice little gift card to my favorite nursery and our trusted friend Lowe's. So when I do attend the short classes, I will post. So stay tuned!

Just an update on our girl. She has really started honing her skills on the ever sought after "Raspberry". The girl is getting it down. Just at random times in the days, she breaks out in raspberry! It's contagious and the next thing you know she has brought everyone in the room in on it. I can't imagine how she will work a whole ballpark full of people when she decides it time to do the "Wave". Stay tuned to that as well.

From a momma's perspective, this is going to fast for me. She is getting big fast. I mean she is already in his "Skinny" jeans that just a couple months ago I thought would never ever fit her. She is sleeping through the night for the most part. She is started to express herself more, it's almost like she is singing. You gotta hear it. It's a little baby version of dogs howling. I mean that in the sweetest way of course. When her daddy and I sing from the top of our lungs in the car which we have been known to do, she takes her own part in the melody. She is a very very very fast learner. I mean what do you expect. Another thing that amazes me is when she wakes up, she just talks to her Ladybug or the mobile butterflies. I am sad sometimes that she doesn't just need me so bad that she can't wait another minute, but right now her friends are doing it for her. I thought this was going to happen in her teens......She is just a doll inside and out! What a wonderful gift, a daughter.

Well we gotta start our day.

Love to you all,

From those who are left in Missouri: Carolina, Luke The Dog and Me

Sweeter Still

2009-02-23T18:51:00.000-06:00

Thanks to Molly Rodgers, we have some sweet new pics of the girl. I want to say all the typical stuff; she's getting big, it happens so fast, she changes every day, blah, blah, blah. I realize that BILLIONS of other parents have gone through the same thing, but it's true for each of us, nonetheless.

She is rolling over, front to back and even back to front a few times. She scoot/crawls on her back and when we get her out of her crib she is nowhere near the position she was in at bedtime. At what age was I no longer able to chew on my foot? She is really sweet, I can't believe how lucky we are.

2009-01-18T19:11:00.000-06:00

I don't know how or why but it seems we have gotten an incredible number of calls or e-mails
lately from people who know people or are praying for people with sick or dying children. I used to pay little attention to stories like that, but since waiting so long for our little girl and knowing her like I do now, I can't imagine what those parents are experiencing. I hope anybody who has little ones realizes how quickly it can change. Squeeze 'em a little tighter tonight.

On a happier note, our baby gets better every second. She had a little hiccup in the bedtime routine, she cried pretty hard two nights in a row. She has been sleeping a lot longer at night, though, (7-9 hours straight) which really helps your perspective on how fun babies are. She has so many friends close to her age and so many on the way. She'll have at least 6 more by next fall. I think fertility may be a group phenomenon and happens in waves, are there any sociologists out there that can back this up?

This is a great picture of my cousin Kristen, Carolina and Harley.

This was Carolina's first day in the nursery at church. Her mom cried, she did not.

My baby and my baby mama.

This is Carolina on the Balinese quilt we got from Matt and Vic.

The Year of The Princess

2009-01-08T16:56:00.000-06:00

We are already into a new year with this princess and she's different every day. She rolled over on her own today three times, stomach to back. She's talking (or speaking in tongues) a LOT, and she's sleeping for much more acceptable periods of time at night (in her own bed, no less). She got sick for the first time, a little cold or something. She had the sniffles and was a little subdued, but she didn't really get too cranky about it. I really like the little things that change about her, this just gets better every day.

Christmas was a lot better with Carolina. Everything just seemed a lot sweeter. She got to spend time with Neil and Sarah (my cousins) finally and she was probably held by no less than forty family members. She takes it all in stride, I think she has a "happy place". Santa hooked her up with a lot of great gifts, she HAD been a really good girl last year.

Carolina has been eating a bit of rice cereal every night, and she picked up the spoon feeding thing pretty well. She has not yet learned the proper use of a napkin, however.

She went to see Santa a few weeks before Christmas. She liked him.

With the number or photos we've taken of her, you'd think we'd have more of the three of us. This is at a post-new years party at Kicker's Corner.

What a beauty.

Apparently glow worms are the rage.

I can't get over her big eyes.

The Ghost of Christmas Future

2008-12-07T08:19:00.000-06:00

I realize that we are now responsible for how our daughter views Christmas and giving gifts and what it's all about. It makes us pay a little more attention to how we approach the holidays. It's really easy to let it just be about eating and decorating and shopping and getting stuff. I know she doesn't get it now, but we want to be more purposeful about what goes on around her during this season. I hope she grows to love Christmas for good reasons, and I'm sure she'll still want an iPod or a Wii or whatever. But it has been more meaningful for us because of her. I hope she learns to ski as soon as she can walk!

Our Favorite Holiday Ever

2008-11-30T21:26:00.001-06:00

Carolina was watching us play football...not really.

The REAL reason for Thanksgiving, our annual football game.

Our little family.

As this holiday season is under way, we realize this one is already more fun than any other. It means something different when we think of Carolina and what it will mean to her as she grows up. I wasn't cranky at all about dragging up all of the Christmas boxes from the basement, usually it's a pain. She was in a great mood as we put up our tree, she was smiling a lot. I was tempted to find a way to stick her at the top of the tree, but we settled for the star.

Thanksgiving was a whirlwind. Three full family meals in three days. Enough with the turkey. Carolina finally got to the place where her eyes just glazed over from all of the commotion, she was a trooper, though. She got a lot of love and a lot of attention, she might be spoiled.

2008-11-16T15:50:00.000-06:00

We haven't posted much recently, I guess it's because we're sort of growing accustomed to the fact that she is going to amaze us everyday and all of you might not be quite as amused as we are. So humor us every so often and let us post pics and talk about Carolina and share the little things that make this parenthood so incredible.

She is pretty much smiling every day, sometimes almost on cue. There have been two or three times when she looked at me, recognized me and smiled. There is nothing better. She also recognizes Luke the Dog now, and she really likes him. She has been a champ about the colder weather, never a whimper about it. Maybe it's because she was frozen for eighteen months. Her hair is thinning a lot in the front and on top (shout out to Uncle Matt) and it seems to be getting lighter. She hasn't been weighed in a while but we're guessing 8 pounds-ish. She is a great baby, she rarely gets fussy and cries when she's really tired or hungry. This is the best thing we've ever done.

Uncle Gene gets sucked into the vortex that occurs whenever she falls asleep on your chest. You could take Mountain Dew intravenously and it wouldn't matter, you'd get sleepy.

5 weeks already?

2008-11-01T16:46:00.000-05:00

We just like this picture!

She is starting to smile more, we're not sure if it's on purpose or not.

She accidentally found her fingers one day...she hasn't since.

A Monumental Occasion

2008-10-14T19:46:00.000-05:00

The last few days have been quite exciting for our little popsicle. On Sunday afternoon, she attended a birthday party for the first time. Her very good friend Lily Sitarski turned one! I'm not sure she knew she was at a birthday party, but she was pretty content anyway. On Monday, she FINALLY got to meet her Uncle Matt and Aunt Vicki, who flew all the way from Guam to meet her. (OK, so they had a wedding to attend as well, that just happened to be convenient for them.) She has heard so much about them and has met just about every one of her aunts and uncles but was holding out a little special lovin' for Matt and Vic. She went to the Iwaszkowiecs' for dinner last night to celebrate the Weltons and life and friendship. She seemed very pleased to be in such a warm place with ridiculous quantities of great food, tasty beverages and wonderful friends. We were able to see pictures of their travels and Carolina is already well educated on Guam, Bali, Mt. Fuji Japan, Kyoto Japan, the Australian outback and avoiding coconuts that were "rinsed" (fell into) in the "river" (sewage). And we learned a new tip, those crazy big bouncy balls that people use for aerobics and such are magical baby spaceships. Leigh bounced her for a few minutes and she was rendered nearly unconscious for much of the night.
Carolina finally gets to meet Matt

She's a big fan of Johanna and Vic

Amie, Carlos, Jon, Me, Jeff, Matt, Vicki, Johanna and Rachel via Skype from Seattle.

Lily at her 1st birthday party

worth a thousand words

2008-10-14T19:39:00.000-05:00

These are some of her more beautiful poses as of late.

2008-10-03T19:53:00.001-05:00

If you have not read the book The Shack, you should. (http://www.theshackbook.com/) It's a story about tragedy and God and how the two collide. It resonated deeply with us as we wandered through miscarriages and failed fertility procedures and wondering why God wouldn't bless us with a child. The main character experiences deep hurt that lingers, the kind that lets you get on with life but without passion or desire. He refers to it as The Great Sadness. The darkness that hovered over us for almost six years was likened to that. We were able to live and live well even at times, but a pervasive cloud made every snapshot a bit dim, every memory saddened. I would never have wanted to admit that having a child was a bargaining chip with God, but it sort of was. I still trusted God and listened to Him, but I had an issue with Him about it. As one week has passed since Carolina's arrival, I realize that she was the breath of God. He took six years to inhale deeply enought to blow The Great Sadness away in one sweet gust. I know it gets harder this being a parent, and I'm okay with that. I'm ready for it. And I know, too, that this little girl will break my heart more than it has been yet. She'll get sick or date a loser or get drunk at 16 or worse. But it won't be the same as The Great Sadness. It's gone now. Every difficult experience from here on out will bear the resemblance of the breath of God. I see it in her, and it's better than anything I've known.

Home Again For The First Time

2008-09-30T15:53:00.000-05:00

We were booted from the hospital today around 9:30 a.m. Our insurance company didn't want to pay for ONE more Tylenol. We were actually pretty ready to leave. It's nice to have all the doctors and nurses there to help, but it gets to be a lot. We're just going to have to figure it out here at home.

Carolina has been a peach all day; sleep, change, eat, burp, repeat. She did get me with the obligatory you-just-changed-my-poopy-diaper-so-now-I'm-going-to-blow-this-one-out poop.

Luke the dog has been really great with his new baby sister. He has been calm and gentle, he licks and sniffs her and even seems to be getting even more protective of his property. If you sneezed in our front yard he'd be on you. We're curious to see if he starts sleeping in her room instead of ours.

A lot has changed in four days. It is feeling like fall in St. Louis, today is quite beautiful. The news is pretty gloomy, it seems the economic sky is falling. Baseball season is over (for the Cardinals, anyway). We have a kid. That little detail seems to make all the others pretty insignificant right now.

Even with all of the advise we've been given (solicited and not), there are a few things we didn't consider. (1) We're going to use FAR more laundry detergent. In three hours I'd worn three shirts, used two burp cloths, soiled one big blanket and I should change my shorts, but what's wrong with a little milk vomit? It's a good thing Kim and Carolina are pretty much going naked these days...I don't think I could keep up with the laundry. (2) They say a baby eats every two hours, so it seems like you should be able to sleep for ALMOST two hours in between, right? Bull. It seems like they eat every 18 minutes. You have to start the time when they START eating, so if they eat for thirty-forty minutes, get burped and changed and settled back to sleep, you have very little time before they start all over. Just enough time for US to eat or go to the bathroom, forget cleaning or laundry. (How do single moms do it?) (3) I will now be able to tell new dads by the way they drive. As we're heading home and I'm driving with an infant in a car seat for the first time, I suddenly became an 84 year-old driver. I was hacked off at all the drivers "flying" by (going 65), I used my blinker seven miles before each turn and I was perfectly content to go 54 in the far right lane. I hope this road paranoia subsides or we are going to be REALLY late getting places.

I cannot believe this will go on forever, literally. Barring freakish twists of fate, I will feel like this about another girl besides Kim for the rest of my life. There are few things in life that are this good that you know you get to keep.

This is nothing

2008-09-28T18:40:00.000-05:00

When you have every manner of medical professional checking in on you every seven minutes, newborns are easy. I suppose that first day home can be a bit daunting. We are relishing in a lot of the small things. My new favorite thing in life is to see her yawn. I want to cry like a little girl every time. She just burped like a trucker and we thought it was the greatest thing. We're proud of her for pooping. When she wails, there is nothing annoying about it. I know it's all a great honeymoon period, and we don't want to miss it at all. I think the fact that we waited and prayed for her for so long makes us a little less annoyed at her. Again, we're just two days in but I completely dread going to work next week because I don't want to miss anything.

The hospital experience has been great, our greatest admiration for the folks at St. John's Mercy. Great people from day one. The only tough thing about all of the medical opinions is all of the medical opinions. Every nurse, doctor, resident, personal care assistant, housekeeper and room service attendant has a different opinion about breastfeeding, sending your baby to the nursery for the night, pacifiers, bottles, sleeping arrangements and choice of college. We're pretty laid back I guess, but Kim wants to nurse and there are a LOT of opinions about that. It can be a tad smothering. I guess you figure out what is best for your baby and do it. I know some folks feel differently, but the scheduled C-section is the way to do it. I was whipped after a twenty minute procedure, I can't imagine doing the 20 hour labor thing, let alone what it does to a woman. Women are the tough ones for sure.

Finding out we were pregnant and having a girl were amazing moments. Doing this whole pregancy thing with my good friend Brandon has been the icing on the cake. God makes amazing things really amazing sometimes so we remember that He likes to see us smile. This is him with my daughter.

This is my daughter with Brandon's daughter Kaelyn. They are less than 8 weeks apart.

Kim Jr.

2008-09-26T22:06:00.000-05:00

I am pretty overcome by the events of the day. All in all, everything was as easy as it gets. Dr. Herrmann, our hero and Doctor of the year, was a bit late in arriving because he had to deliver another baby at St. Luke's. Our 12:00 C-section started to roll about 1:15, Kim was in the OR at 1:35 and I was holding Carolina at 1:55 p.m. CST. That was a long-a## twenty minutes. I cried a bit (or a lot depending on your definition) and pretty much saturated the surgical mask which makes for some pretty humid breathing ( I see what Rach means about burping in your mask). She weighed 7lbs 4oz and has GREAT lungs...opera singer lungs. I'm a Dad, I really love this little girl and I love Kim more, too. It really is instantaneous the unconditional love part, I don't know quite how it happens. Kim is feeding her and both are figuring each other out, I think they're ahead of the curve for eight hours old. Here are some highlights from our greatest day yet.

Kim had just gotten to the hospital. A month ago, Carolina was head down and ready to roll. Last week she had flipped to breach which isn't too common, hence the scheduled C-section. Today, right before the procedure, they did an ultra-sound and she was flipped again head down. We did the procedure anyway, no way we were going home empty-handed at this point. This little girl is trouble.

Kim is now under the influence. Can you tell in the squinty eyes and the crooked smile? If you've ever seen her with a bottle of wine...

Apparently Carolina is not all that happy about the frigid air and the poking and prodding. She looked pretty rough at this point, but I was smitten.

Our first family photo. I'm overhwhelmed with joy and pride, Kim is high. She looks just like her mom.

I have always had this dream of seeing Kim and her momma with our baby. This was one of the most memorable moments of my life.

This is my new favorite picture in existence.

...and counting!

2008-09-25T17:10:00.000-05:00

Waiting is brutal. I know billions of people in the history of the world have experienced this, but it is exciting and overwhelming and nauseating and beautiful nonetheless. I thank you for praying for us and for Carolina and the chance we get at parenthood. This miracle is not ours alone, God intends them for everyone.

She is all we have waited for.

This just in..........

2008-09-22T10:06:00.000-05:00

Carolina Kimberly will be making her debut on Friday afternoon at 12 p.m. or so. I have a planned c-section and will be in St. John's Mercy. We will be there over the weekend so if you want, please come and celebrate her advent into our world!
Love you all!

One Frozen Dream

2008-09-20T14:27:00.000-05:00

I know that every new life is a miracle, and our constant references to miracles is in no way meant to diminish or cheapen the actual meaning of miracles. Our understanding of the idea has changed in the past six years as we embarked on the long, arduous and eventually fruitful journey of pregnancy. After several failed fertility procedures, including two In Vitro cycles, we were moving towards adoption. We had two embryos that were cryogenically frozen from the second IVF and we had decided to do a "natural" Frozen Embryo Transfer. Natural just means Kim wasn't all hopped up on hormones and steroids and other questionable narcotics. The embryos were thawed and one of them was good, one was great. Both were implanted in January. The success rate isn't very high for FET's, so we were sort of trying to close a chapter and move on. However, seven days after the procedure we were told that Kim was pregnant. Here we are in September, mere days from her due date. I was reminded of this miracle the other night when Carolina had the hiccups. I had felt her move before and seen Kim's belly contort and bubble, but seeing her and feeling her with the hiccups made me realize that she was real, a real live person, more than anything else. We are so thankful to have had the experience of pregnancy, we still pray for all of those who are waiting for their miracle, and we wonder if adoption is still in the plans for us. For now we just want to meet our little popsicle.