Blessed.

I try to never take for granted Parker's health and development in life.  I try to remember every day how lucky I am because he is healthy and happy.  I try not to let little things stress me out (even though it's hard) because I have a beautiful, healthy, happy baby and that is what is important to me. 

If you listen to country music, then you've heard of Aaron Watson.  This is the story of his little baby girl that he lost early in October: http://barbedwirehalo.wordpress.com/2011/10/21/giving-julia-back-week-21-part-one/.  If you don't have the time to read it, the gist: They were pregnant with their fourth baby, and his wife gave birth to her at 33 weeks and she did not survive.  It is amazing to read how their faith has helped them get through it.

I can't imagine.  I just can't.  My heart breaks for anyone who has lost a child.  I will never begin to understand what that must feel like but can only imagine how hard it must be. 

So today, (even though I try every day) I will not sweat the small stuff.  I know there will be things that come along that catch me off guard and I will revert to my old, negative ways, but I am going to TRY my hardest to enjoy this short life and continue to feel so incredibly lucky that I was blessed with this sweet little boy.

It doesn't get much better than this.

Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater

We took Parker to his first pumpkin patch this weekend.  I am loving everything fall and everything pumpkin: seeds, lattes, candles, etc.....but especially lovin' my little Punkin.

There are not too many smiles from Parker in these pics, but he really did like it.

MIL of the YEAR.

While I was spending 10 hours at a continuing education class today, my wonderful MIL came over to babysit our sweet boy (Daddy had soccer games).  I left at 7 a.m. and got home at almost 7 p.m.  When I walked in the house, my MIL had made lasagna for us to have for dinner....did laundry.....did the dishes....and spent the entire day with her grandbaby.....oh....and brought a new toy and new clothes for Parker (which she does EVERY time she comes over :).  You cannot imagine how nice it felt to come home to that, especially after the crazy busy week I had. 

Granzie, thank you so much for today.  You helped me out so much.  You are awesome.

 

Gigi time.

Gigi came in town this weekend to visit Parker us. :)  We had such a good time, as always.  Parker and Gigi had a little outside fun before she had to get to the airport this evening. 

Thank you for coming to see us this weekend, Gigi.  

And how adorable is my little guy?  I'm not sure if it's inappropriate to talk about how cute your child is, but come on......HE IS A-DORABLE.....and you better believe I tell him that every day.

Jump, jump....

Daddy put together Parker's Jumparoo yesterday.  We're pretty sure he likes it.  :)

 

He gets it from his Mama.

My weight and height chart.  Almost identical to my baby boy's.

Me and my Mama. 

Eight years ago....

......I fell in love with you.  Three years ago today I married you.  And four months ago, we made our family complete (for now).  I couldn't ask for a better life.  We have been through so much together, and you continue to make me a better person.  You've taught me so much about myself that I may have never learned on my own.  The best thing you and Parker have taught me is how insanely in love I can be with two people.  Thank you for giving me my happy, little life with my sweet, little family that I have dreamed about since I was a little girl.