Keeping up in 2011

There was little time to sit back and relax after ringing in the new year this year! I had just enough time to get all of the holiday decorations packed up and stacked in the attic before getting the sewing machine out and putting together a few baby items. Our dear friends, Tammy and Tracy, hosted a really lovely baby shower for Alex on January 15th. Even Amy, Isabelle, Olivia, and Tara were able to come for the weekend and help cheer Alex on to parenthood!


Alex & Nicholas checked into Willowbrook Methodist Hospital on the morning of January 26th, and I was fortunate to spend the day with them as Alex "labored" toward the birth of their little boy. It was a good thing that Alex had exercised and kept herself in great physical shape throughout her pregnancy, because at 9 lbs. 1 oz. and 22 inches, it took considerable pushing to deliver Leo Nicholas that evening! He is a beautiful, healthy baby, and we feel so blessed to be able to be "hands on" grandparents nearly every day!

The miracle of birth is such an emotional and spiritual experience. The great love a new little spirit from heaven brings to all of us is overwhelming. I was so proud of Alex as she maintained her unwavering calm and unassuming demeanor through a long day of labor and delivery -- especially since I often need her calming influence! We are so thrilled to welcome little Leo to our family.