Mickey Seamus Moran

Mickey's New Friend

2008-07-24T07:53:00.000-07:00

I'm such a bad mommy! I haven't updated you on Mickey's new friend... Chris and I got a kitten a few weeks ago! Mickey is loving him... we named him Django, but Mickey calls him "go" or "cat". The cat likes to lightly swat Mickey's head when Mickey walks past him (when the cat is up high) which Mickey thinks is hilarious. He likes to take Django's toys and run with them to get the kitten to chase him which makes him laugh really hard too. He also loves the cat smelling his hands and feet and will hold them out for him. We're really proud of how gentle he's been being with him which makes us feel better about bringing home Finn (although a baby is different than a cat...but you know).

Mickey is also saying more words. He says "yeah", "no", "cat", "ball", "juice", "hi"... he also pats his hands on his lap to show you he wants to sit on your lap. He cracks us up with his "yeah" and "no". We'll ask for a kiss and he says "no.." and then we ask if he wants a snack and he says "yeah!" Sometimes he says "yeah" even when he has no idea what you mean. Chris brought him for a walk at the park and asked him if he knew who made the trees and sky and Mickey just said "yeah!" which made Chris laugh. He's getting so big! We really can't believe it... He's going to seem so huge when Finn gets here...

18 Month Doctor's Appointment

2008-06-30T15:33:00.000-07:00

Mickey had his 18 month doctor's appointment today (even though he is about to be 19 months on Saturday) and they said everything looks great! He's in the 25% for weight and height and in the 97% for head! All those brains the boy has...haha! He measured 31.5 inches long/tall and was 25.5 pounds. The doctor said he looks great health and development wise.

Mickey's entered a bit of a shy faze lately. He's fine with people he knows and women (what a ladies man) but he has been super shy when men he doesn't know that well try to talk to him. At the doctor's office today he went and sat behind the garbage can where the doctor couldn't see him until I went over and held him! He's really too cute...

He's also learned to say "all done" or something that sounds like it... it's kind of like "aww duh" but he says it when he's done eating so we know it's what he means. He still says "ball" and "juice" too. He's also learned to make a low growling sound when you ask him what the monster says (I got him an elmo and a cookie monster stuffed toy and he associates them with monsters... he even tries to growl the word 'cookie' for cookie monster).

Mickey's Double Date

2008-06-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

My friend Ashley and I went out this week and Mickey joined us. He liked having two women pay lots of attention to him AND have one of his favorite food (pizza and breadsticks from Olive Garden).

Mickey is a ham...as soon as I pulled out the camera he started giving big smiles. You can tell he never has his picture taken!

Mickey loves kisses

What a little goofball!!

Mickey Playing in the Yard

2008-05-12T18:16:00.001-07:00

Mickey got a frog shaped pool although it's been too rainy to get much use out of it... except throwing balls into it or just standing in it...

Mickey chooses the pacifier instead of gum when playing baseball. He also likes to throw multiple balls at once.

Mickey takes a break from all his pitching.

Mickey stares down the batter.

The New House

2008-05-12T18:09:00.000-07:00

Sorry that I have been too busy to let everyone know how the move went... Mickey is loving his new house (especially the yard). Chris and I were really happy that he didn't have any trouble sleeping the first night and has been coping really well. He was a little more clingy at first while he was getting used to things, but he seems to understand this is home now and loves to roam the house. That's one thing we've been loving about having one floor...not having to gate off anything!

As I said, Mickey loves the yard. He really enjoys going outside and playing baseball with Mommy and Daddy (and his Pepe when he comes over). He loves to throw the ball and swing the bat. He gets into his stance and swings like a pro! We don't know how he learned that (except from Daddy playing softball and watching the Red Sox). He also has a pretty good arm for throwing the ball. He loves to sleep with his bat too...He would stay outside 24/7 if we let him...it's usually a big deal when we make him come inside.

Mickey is also getting lots of teeth in...He hadn't gotten any since he was 1o months old and now all of a sudden he has four molars and a bottom front tooth coming in (maybe more... I can't really see). It's made him a little grumpy but he's a trooper.

Easter Sunday

2008-03-26T06:46:00.000-07:00

Mickey have a very good Easter...he got lots of candy which he was happy about. Daddy taught him how to open the plastic eggs which caused a mouth full of jellybeans right before we were supposed to leave for church (and that was after a doughnut for breakfast).

We went to my parent's house for lunch and Mickey got to enjoy lots of yummy Easter foods (which went all over his face as well). My grandmother is staying at my parents for the next week and a half, so Mickey enjoyed seeing his Grand Meme. Mickey also got to have an Easter egg hunt as you see from the pictures in the previous post.

Easter Pictures

2008-03-26T06:38:00.001-07:00

Mickey got to have his own Easter Egg hunt at his Meme and Pepe's house

Mickey wonders where to look next

Mickey telling everyone that he found an egg

Daddy helped Mickey find the egg and the put it into the basket

Mickey did pretty well at finding the eggs himself too...

Mickey wanted to find all the eggs and open them

Mommy followed Mickey around too to make sure the eggs went in the basket and not all over Mickey's face...

Mickey still managed to open them and get the chocolate inside...he thought it was a productive hunt...

Playing in the Yard

2008-03-21T17:43:00.000-07:00

Mickey spent some time today at his Meme and Pepe's house and got to explore a leaf pile

Quite the model, Mickey poses for the camera

What an angelic child...

The sun was in his eyes, but he still manages to look adorable!!

15 Month Doctor's Appointment and More Updates

2008-03-13T17:40:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that Mickey is already 15 months old...the time goes by so quickly!! Chris and I were just saying the other day how strange it is that he's the same baby we brought home from the hospital. It'll be weird to have another baby in the house with Mickey being the oldest. I think Mickey is going to like having a baby in the house though because whenever he sees a baby doll or a baby on tv, he goes and hugs it and says "aww".

Mickey is so smart. I know every mom says that but I really think he is. He's started showing you his belly button if you ask where his belly is. He pulls up his shirt and sticks his finger in his belly button. I don't know if I've said this before, but he also answers the "what sound does a dog make?" with a bark and "what sound does a bear make?" with a growl. He absolutely LOVES dogs/puppies. He gets so excited when he sees one on tv or outside.

He's also been trying to imitate words like "book" with the "k" sound and "shoes" with the "shh" sound. It's really cool to see him communicating with us. He also tells me when he wants a nap lots of times by either going to his crib and looking at me while trying to climb in and saying "uh, uh" (his most common word). He also will come to me to pick him up most times when I ask if he needs a nap. I know that won't be lasting long...

He went to the doctor's this week and they said he looks really great. He was 23 pounds and 31 inches long. His head is still in the 90%...see? Smart!

Mickey's Big News

2008-02-27T17:00:00.000-08:00

Mickey wanted to let everyone know that he's going to be having a little brother! That's right, I went to the doctor's office on Monday and found out that the baby on the way is a little boy! Mickey doesn't quite know what a brother is yet, but we are sure he will learn quickly once little Moran baby #2 arrives...

Mickey and Taz

2008-02-04T10:49:00.000-08:00

Mickey's Meme brought over a giant "Taz" stuffed animal for him and Mickey couldn't stop hugging it and was showing off his cuteness for the camera...

He knows that he's adorable...

Don't you just want to kiss those cheeks all the time??

He kept looking at Meme wanting her to take more pictures of him...our little male model...

This is Mickey's "cute" face (although all of his faces are cute) he does when he is being sweet and hugging something. He loves to hug all of his stuffed animals and anything soft. It's usually accompanied by him going: "aww..."

Busy Mickey!

2008-02-04T10:43:00.000-08:00

Sorry that I haven't written in awhile. We've been a little busy...

Chris's dad came to visit a little over a week ago from Connecticut. Mickey loved having his grampa here for the weekend. Mickey was really shy at first but then he couldn't get enough of Grampa Grit (he LOVED that Grampa let him walk around the restraunt and explore instead of just sitting in the highchair the whole time)! Mickey can't wait to go to Connecticut and see Grampa Grit, GLo, and his uncles Drew and Roan. We're hoping to go later this spring...I have some pictures of Mickey with Grampa that I will try and put up soon!

Mickey enjoyed the Super Bowl Party last night (even though he was very sad that his favorite team, the Patriots, lost...) He got to play with a couple of his friends and eat lots of good food.

Going Out to Eat

2008-01-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

Mickey and Daddy getting ready to leave to go out to eat

Well, Mickey found a new favorite food...pancakes! We went out to IHOP with my parents Saturday and Mickey couldn't get enough of them...he also liked the scrambled eggs, but not quite as much. He would shove it in his mouth and then ask for more. Little piggy.

Merry Christmas from Mickey

2008-01-03T08:11:00.001-08:00

Mickey liked playing with Jubilee's baby bottle

Mickey was very excited about Christmas

The sleepy babies took a break from playing to take a picture for their Meme

Mickey and Jubilee play with their new toys

Mommy and Daddy have a minute of not chasing Mickey around the house

Mickey had a great Christmas at his Meme and Pepe's house

Birthday Party Pictures

2007-12-14T09:28:00.001-08:00

Mickey snuggles with his Meme before the guests arrive for his Birthday Party!

Mommy and Mickey blow out the birthday candles on his cake

Frosting covered face...

Mickey was very excited to be eating more birthday cake

He's a very aggressive eater...making sure it's good and dead...

He was very intrigued by the bubbles he got from his Uncle Michael, Aunt Ember, and cousin Jubilee

He also got a Spongebob bat and ball along with some other great presents from his friends and family...

Mickey's Birthday Party

2007-12-10T10:34:00.000-08:00

Mickey had a great birthday party! He had a good time playing with his friends and eating cake (which he got all over his face...we have pictures that i will add later). He also got some fun toys which he is loving. It's so crazy to think he's one now...

The other news is he is walking!! He took his first few steps two days before his birthday and now he can basically walk across the room. He's still wobbly and falls sometimes, but he gets very proud of himself and his accomplishments (mommy and daddy are proud of him too).

Happy Birthday, Mickey Seamus!

2007-12-05T15:32:00.000-08:00

It's official! Mickey Seamus Cooligan Moran is now one year old!! Chris and I both can't believe it. This year has flown by so fast. The little man celebrated the day by playing with his new toys that he got from Grampa Grit, GLo, Uncle Drew, and Uncle Roan (which he loves by the ways, thanks!!) and spending time with his mommy and daddy. Chris came home early from work so that made Mickey happy.

For dinner he had his favorite food, pizza (he had his other favorite food, french fries, with his lunch) and Mommy made him a baseball cake. With some help, he opened his birthday present from Mommy and Daddy, a baby t-ball game. So, overall he had a very good birthday and is looking forward to his birthday party this Saturday :)

I'll put pictures up once I get them...

Thanksgiving Pictures

2007-11-26T07:13:00.000-08:00

Mickey takes a break from his playing in the grass to take a picture with his mommy and daddy (and Aunt Grace) on Grama and Grampa's front porch

Daddy gives Mickey his first Thanksgiving meal

Mickey loved the mashed potatoes his Great Aunt Jenny made...his favorite was the pumpkin pie though....

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-24T14:37:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone,
This is Mickey. I hope you guys had a good Thanksgiving. I did. I went to Grama and Grampa's house. I got to eat lots of good food. My favorite was the pumpkin pie.

My mommy and daddy said they have a special Thanksgiving present for me. I'm getting a little brother or sister in July! I don't know quite what to think about that yet. Daddy says I will have to share my toys. Hmm. Mommy says I will be a good big brother.

Love,
Mickey Seamus

Slacker Mom...

2007-11-13T06:17:00.000-08:00

I just want to let you know that I will be putting up pictures of Mickey in his Halloween costume...I've been slacking...but they will be coming soon!!

More Teeth On The Way

2007-11-07T12:28:00.000-08:00

Mickey has two more teeth coming in, one on either side of his current two front teeth...he's been a little more cranky and his sleeping has been a little off, but he's a trooper! He does well with not biting too (so far).

I ordered him his first meal at a restraunt yesterday too...that was weird! He had a kids meal that had grilled cheese and fries. He loved it! My little boy is getting so big!

2007-10-29T14:59:00.000-07:00

Mickey just started giving hugs to his stuffed animals...it's so cute! He holds it and put his head down on it and goes "ahhh..." mimicking my "aww". He does it to other random things too like his pacifiers. What can I say? He loves them. He even gave his friend Silas a hug at church yesterday which was sweet. He loves to hug his bear the most though.

He also climbed up onto our love seat all by himself...(to get to Daddy's computer) The little rascal is extremely active and I bet he'll be walking before long. He doesn't really like to walk holding onto our fingers though (he can't go as fast as he wants). He'd rather crawl and then cruise along the furniture and walls.

Mickey is very happy (along with Mommy and Daddy) that his favorite team, the Boston Red Sox, won the world series. He was asleep so he missed the game, but his dad told him this morning and he seemed very pleased....

Snuggles with Pepe

2007-10-24T08:07:00.000-07:00

He's so camera shy as you can see

He also hates the attention that he gets all the time

Too adorable!!

His new favorite thing to do is blow raspberries...his pepe tries to avoid the spray...

Mealtime at Meme and Pepe's House

2007-10-24T07:55:00.001-07:00

Mickey is always happy when it's mealtime...

He wasn't sure what he thoughts about the Shepherd's Pie though

"Hey...this isn't what I ordered..."

Cook Out

2007-10-22T09:12:00.001-07:00

While Chris was gone on a buisness trip this past weekend, Mickey and Mommy went to a cookout at a friend's house where Mickey enjoyed his first taste of pumpkin pie!

Mickey and Mommy snuggle while eating hamburgers and chips (as seen on Mickey's chin)

Mickey sits on "Aunt" Hannah's lap and flashes that goofball smile

The Little Man

2007-10-05T19:56:00.000-07:00

Mickey stood by himself! I still cannot believe it...he pulled himself up on our tv entertainment center thing and let go. I don't think he realized that he did it at first but he seemed very proud of himself after the fact. Chris was away in Hilton Head at the time so he missed it, but Mickey made up for it tonight.....

...Not only did he make up for it, he surpassed himself...but this time I was at the grocery store so I missed it.

I had told Chris about him standing by himself so while I was gone Chris was trying to get him to do it. He held him up and the let go and Mickey stood alone. So then Chris got the idea to hold his hands and have him walk. Chris did this and then let go and mickey took a step alone and then fell on his butt. That's right, Mickey TOOK HIS FIRST STEP...

Chris is telling me that it doesn't count as his first step because he didn't stand by himself and then take a step, but still...I'm sad that I missed it but I am glad Chris was able to see it :)

9 Month Doctor's Appointment

2007-09-18T12:25:00.000-07:00

Wow! Bad, mommy...i haven't written in awhile...sorry about that. Mickey had his 9mo doctor's appointment today and it went really well. She said everything looked great. He had to get his finger pricked for a blood test and one shot. He didn't even cry, although he did complain because we made him lay still and held his hands still. He doesn't like that very much...his stats were:

Weight: 19 lb, 12.5 oz (35%)
Height: 28.75 in (65%)
Head: 47.6 cm (95%!!)

Yes, our son still has quite the noggin...he also has four teeth now! His top two finally are in and it looks so cute when he smiles! He is still crawling all over the place, clapping, and now waving and dancing too. He loves to dance to his music while holding onto his crib rails. He's been saying "da-da" a lot...he actually pointed at Chris a couple weeks ago and said "Da!" We weren't sure if he knew what he was saying but he sure looked like it...

The Beach

2007-08-27T04:44:00.000-07:00

Mickey had his first beach trip this past week! We drove to the Outer Banks (Corolla, NC) to visit with Chris's grandmother, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Mickey was very happy to meet all of them and play with his second cousin Luke (and try to steal his pacifier). He also enjoyed all the attention he got from his great grandmother and great aunts and uncles.

He did not, however, enjoy the beach. Everytime we let him sit or stand on the sand he would cry and the water was the same. He didn't mind if we held him while we stood in the water and just let him look at the waves coming in, but letting him actually be in the water was pretty scary to him.

It looks like his top front teeth are getting ready to come in! He's been pretty extra tired which I assume is from that.

Mickey Seamus...

2007-08-09T09:31:00.000-07:00

Sorry that I haven't written anything in awhile. He's been keeping me very busy! I cannot believe that my baby is eight months old now...it doesn't seem real. It seems even less real to then realize that he will be a year old in four months.

His new thing that he loves to do is clap. We'll tell him "clap, clap, clap" and he does it! Its funny because he likes to clap to music and many times, he's on beat! He likes for us to clap with him too.

This morning he sat up by himself! (he's been able to sit alone for awhile, but I mean he was laying down and he pulled himself up to the sitting position) He still is crawling all over the place and has a new fasination with outlets and night lights, always a fun thing for Mommy and Daddy.

His bottom two front teeth also finally came in! He did really well too and wasn't really extra cranky or anything. He was a little more tired, but not bad at all. I was happy about that because I've heard such horror stories.

It's taking Chris and I to be able to give this kid a bath though. He does not like to sit still and wants to explore everything in, around, and out of the tub. I think he's definitely going to keep Chris and I in shape...

Mickey in His Chair

2007-08-06T09:59:00.000-07:00

Chris and I went away for the weekend for our anniversary so my parents watched Mickey. Here are some adorable pictures they took...

Is that not the cutest picture?? He has such a cute smile...

His new thing that he loves to do is clap. He likes to show off how he does it too.

He looks like he's in time out right here...oh it's good to be home and be back with my baby boy because we both missed him so much...

Us

2007-07-20T11:17:00.001-07:00

This is actually an older picture from Memorial Day weekend, but I thought you would enjoy it

Fourth of July Weekend

2007-07-20T11:13:00.000-07:00

Mickey loves his dadddy...

He also loves the pool!

Mickey enjoys the blow up pool with his cousin Jubilee at Meme and Pepe's house

He's Getting Too Big...I Don't Know What I Think About It

2007-07-17T15:55:00.000-07:00

So, Mickey has been pulling himself up onto everything lately. Couches, stairs, toys, baby equipment, anything he can find. We are definately keeping a closer eye on him. He loves being able to get around and do more too. He hasn't been going for wires as much which I appreciate, but he loves to head for the kitchen where he can pound on the floor and pull himself up on the microwave cart which makes me extremely nervous.

He's been doing "praise the Lord" lately which is where he raises his hand to the sky (he's seen people doing it at church and started mimicking it) and he wants us to do it with him. He even yells at you sometimes until you do it with him. It's really cute.

No teeth yet but I think that some are going to be coming in soon. Hopefully...he's been a little cranky lately and I think that's why. I guess we will see.

Such A Busy Boy

2007-07-02T09:18:00.000-07:00

Mickey has been very active lately! He crawls everywhere to get to everything that he wants. His favorite thing to try and play with is cords and Chris's guitars, so Mommy has to be very aware of where he is at all times. He likes to crawl to the kitchen floor and pound on it with his hand. He definitely likes to make noise. He has one of those little baby pianos that he likes to play with too. He sings along while he pounds the four keys too. He just loves music.

He's also been doing this thing where he raises his left hand in the air and just leaves it there. Sometimes he then starts smacking everything, but most of the time he just holds it there for awhile. He's also started pushing himself up on things that are low to the ground. He can push himself up on my legs or the guitar case. When he crawls he also gets on his toes sometimes too. This boy wants to walk so badly. What happened to my little baby boy??

He loves to say "dadada" which Chris loves and sometimes he says "mamama". He also purses his lips together and says "oooh" and looks very surprised. Too adorable. I cannot believe that he is almost 7 months old...that's over half of a year...ahh!

6 Month Doctor's Appointment

2007-06-08T09:54:00.001-07:00

Mickey had his 6 month check up yesterday and everything looks good. He had to get two shots but he was very brave and hardly cried. He weighs 16 lbs, 15 oz and was 26.5 inches long. His weight is evening out to the middle of the percentiles, but the doctor said that's fine. He was 40% for weight, 50% for length, and 90% for head!! What a big noggin (45.5cm)!!

She said his motor skills look great and he should be able to pull himself up on stuff by the time I come in next time (when he's 9 mo). She also showed me where his two bottom teeth are getting ready to come in!!

Mickey at Meme and Pepe's

2007-06-08T05:51:00.000-07:00

Mickey looks a little tired here...

"Look, Meme...I can crawl now!"

Isn't he just the cutest baby??

Mickey and Jubilee

2007-06-08T05:47:00.000-07:00

Mickey and his cousin Jubilee spend time at their Meme and Pepe's house...

6 Months Old...

2007-06-06T07:01:00.001-07:00

So, Mickey started crawling last night (his 6 month birthday) and this morning...(which by the way is way too young in my opinion) He kind of hops up onto his knees and rocks for a minute and then goes back onto his belly where he pulls his legs in and then flexes them out on the carpet and therefore gets to where he wants to go! What a little rascal! Now starts the days of Mommy having to chase him everywhere and baby proof the house!

Mickey with His Aunts

2007-06-05T12:55:00.001-07:00

Mickey pulls Aunt Joyanna in for a kiss...

Oh...right on the nose...he loves to give kisses...

...and get kisses....

Something tells me we're going to have to watch out for this little boy...he loves the girls...

Mickey loves to play in the excersaucer

Look at those big, brown eyes...

Aunt Cally joins Mickey, wondering what he's doing in her seat...

Aunt Cally tries to teach Mickey how to smile for the camera

Mickey and His Friend Conrad

2007-06-04T08:55:00.001-07:00

The date on these is wrong...but they are from a month or so ago...here is Mickey at his Aunt Hannah's house with his pal Conrad...

2007-06-03T14:03:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that my baby is only two days away from being six months old! How is this fair?? It really sneaks up on you. I'm loving everyday with him though, so I shouldn't complain. He just gets cuter and more fun.

He's still trying very hard to crawl. He is learning to get up on his knees, but he doesn't do it all the time. He will get up on them and rock a little bit, and then collapse. It's so cute to watch him try to reach for things and try to crawl towards them.

He's been being more vocal lately as well. He's been saying "Ma Ma Ma" a whole lot which I absolutely adore (even if he doesn't know what he's saying yet...he just knows Mommy gives him a lot of attention when he says it). And he does a whole new screeching thing too when he's playing around.

He goes for his six month appointment Thursday, so I will let you know how that goes :)

Mickey and His Girl

2007-05-18T10:45:00.001-07:00

Mickey loves his Auntie Ashley

They enjoyed their first date at Duke Gardens

Mommy came too...

5 1/2 Months Goes By So Fast

2007-05-17T07:04:00.000-07:00

Five and a half months really does go by so fast. I look at Mickey and see him changing daily! It's amazing! I can't believe how much he has grown in the past month alone...

He can roll both ways now which is a mixed blessing...he rolled off the bed last week. I think it scared him more than hurt him, though. He was pretty brave about the whole thing. He did cry, but not for long and was back to his smiley, happy self. He does enjoy being able to move around more by himself though. He wants to crawl badly but can't quite figure that one out yet. He wiggles and flexes his legs like crazy but can't master getting up on his knees yet.

He's gone through all of the stage one baby foods and starts stage two in a couple of weeks. He also has become a very big boy in trying Cheerios! He likes them too. He gets mad when I stop giving them to him. I have to break them in half and he gnaws at them. It's so cute to watch!! He's been downing 8-9oz of bottle five times a day too. Little piggy...

He's still been sleeping exceptionally well since we moved in here. He does wake me up a little earlier, but he rarely wakes me during the night for his pacifier.

He's being a lot of fun with all the new interactions too. He gets so excited when Chris gets home from work! He squeals and gives Chris huge smiles which Chris loves, of course. He still loves to snuggle his mommy too which makes ME happy.

He grabs at everything too. It's strange having to be so aware of what's around him now, because he just reaches all the time. We were at a restaurant and I was holding him and he was climbing across the table to reach my soda! Little rascal! His other new favorite things to grab for include the remote, cell phone, shoes, and Chris's computer...

New Home

2007-05-03T07:04:00.000-07:00

We've moved to our new home! It's a townhouse which is nice...I will try and take some pictures of Mickey's room to post as well. Mickey did extremely well with the move...I thought he would have a harder time with not being on schedule for two days, but he was a good boy (as always).

He's been sleeping much better the past three nights too which has been nice for me. He usually does well except for waking me for his beloved pacifier, but the past three nights he hasn't. He's spoiling me! He's doing great with his solid foods too. He's gone through all the veggies and two fruits (peaches and pears). He starts apples tomorrow. He can also somewhat drink out of a cup and water bottle...it's so cute because he's been trying to grab for whatever we have. He just stares as we eat things.

It's strange to already be paying close attention to what he's doing...I went to the grocery store yesterday and I had him in his stroller, sitting up so he can see, and he kept trying to grab for things on the shelves! He loves to grab onto anything...

He was also trying to sing yesterday...I was driving with my ipod playing and he was singing in the back seat! It was so cute! He has such a sweet little voice too...he wants to start crawling, but he's not there yet...

Easter Sunday

2007-04-16T11:32:00.000-07:00

Yeah! My cousin took a picture of us with Mickey's Easter outfit...

More Photos

2007-04-16T11:27:00.000-07:00

Eating his cereal

What a messy face!

Mommy still give him his bottle...although he thinks he can do it himself...

Solid Foods

2007-04-16T07:30:00.000-07:00

Mickey has been doing great with his solid foods! He's already had carrots and sweet potatoes and is currently eating squash...tomorrow is his last day on that and then he'll be having green beans...he seems to like all of them so far too. He makes quite a mess though...especially with the cereal...

He's been doing much better with his reflux lately too. I think it's from the solid foods and being upright more of the time. Anyways, it's nice to not have him spitting up all of the time!

Easter Sunday Pics

2007-04-09T10:54:00.000-07:00

I had a much cuter Easter outfit on him for church, but he didn't get to stay in too long...he doesn't keep clothes clean...

In Aunt Cally's excersaucer

He loves to stand so this is Mommy's favorite thing for him

What a big boy!

Grandpa Grit, Grandma Lo, Uncle Drew, and Uncle Roan Visit

2007-04-09T10:45:00.000-07:00

These are older...they were taken when Mickey's grandparents from CT came down for the week to visit with us...of course he got even more spoiled :)

Old Photos

2007-04-09T10:28:00.000-07:00

These are old pictures, but I thought you might enjoy them...I finally got them off of Chris's camera so they are new to me too!

Mickey in his bear outfit the one day we had snow here...

Look at those gorgeous baby-doll eyes...I know he's a boy, but they're still gorgeous!

"Who, me?"

Mickey's first big-boy bath in his tub

I know he'll hate me for these when he's older...but how cute!!

Poor Mickey

2007-04-05T14:41:00.000-07:00

Poor little Mickey has a cold...he's been sneezing and coughing a lot...he actually had a doctor's appointment today for his four month check up so that was good to have the doctor look at him. He had to still get his shots though so that makes him even more sleepy today. He was very brave again though and he only cried for a minute or two. I know tomorrow will be a little worse, but Chris will be home for Good Friday so that will be helpful.

He now weighs 15 lbs, 3.5 oz! He was 24 in long too. His percentiles were 60% for weight and height and 80% for head circumference...he does have a large noggin...the doctor said he looks very good and is doing everything they would hope for at this age.

He's going to start solid foods too!! Where does the time go...he has to have cereal twice a day for a week or so and then we'll start with a veggie for a couple of days and make the rounds through the wonderful world of vegetables! Big, big boy...

We brought him to the park on Saturday for the first time and he was fascinated with the ducks! The ducks let you get pretty close to them so Chris brought him over and he just stared and stared at them...it was so cute!

He Loves to Stand

2007-03-26T16:37:00.000-07:00

Mickey has been loving his little excersaucer! He loves to stand up so it makes it all the more fun for him and easier than me holding him up all day long...he's been exploring all the toys that are on it as well. He has started to grab toys that are close to him too. He doesn't really reach for things, but if they are there he grabs them. He had one of his Ugly Dolls in his stroller today and he just kept staring at it and touching it's eyes and grabing it. It was very cute to see him.

He's been laughing too! This past week he has just been really laughing at different things. He gave lots of laughs to his Aunt Cally at church this past Sunday. His Aunt Ember was rocking him back and forth toward her and she (Cally) would rub his head and he thought it was hysterical! It's so cute to watch him laugh and smile. He's such a sweet boy...

Also, Chris and I have learned a weird comforting thing he does at bed time...he rubs the back of his head! As soon as we lay him down with his pacey, his hand goes to the back of his head and he rubs it. His hand is usually still there in the morning too...he has a bald spot there now from all the rubbing he does! What a cutie pie!!

Bouncing Baby Boy

2007-03-19T15:39:00.000-07:00

Mickey bouncing away in his seat for the first time!

He even noticed the toys on the front and played with them a little bit...

Little Squirt...

2007-03-07T07:08:00.000-08:00

Mickey woke me up a lot last night...it was funny though because he'd make sounds like he wanted his pacey and when I would go in, he was wide awake on his back looking at me! He did that several times so I'd roll him back on his belly, give him his pacey, and then he'd go back to sleep for two hours. He finally got up around 5:40am (I had gotten out of that habit and so it was pretty tiring for me) wanting to eat. This boy is going to keep me very active!

Well, we are leaving him with a non-parent babysitter this weekend...Uncle Paul has graciously agreed to watch the munchkin while Chris and I go to the Shins concert Saturday. Hopefully he behaves and is a good boy (Mickey, not Paul...lol...) for his god-father...we're going to put nanny-cams all over the house to catch Paul spoiling him too...lol...just kidding...

It Goes By Too Fast

2007-03-05T10:09:00.000-08:00

Well, Mickey is officially three months old today...where does the time go? I've always heard parents say it goes by so quickly and I never understood that until I had Mickey. They really don't stay baby-babies for very long. Sigh...it's okay though because he's more fun now. He gives us such huge adorable smiles! He's really too cute...

He's been laughing at the fan a lot. He doesn't really laugh laugh, but he giggles at it. Even if it's not on, he loves it. It's really cute! Except, I am selfish and I only want those smiles directed at me and not some ceiling fan...lol...

He's still be sleeping well, except he's been waking up like 5 times for his pacey. They usually run together as in I get up twice around 4am and three times around 6am...he can suck on his hand, but I guess he likes the pacifier better. Little rascal...

He's On the Move!

2007-02-28T07:55:00.000-08:00

Mickey rolled over yesterday morning!! He usually wakes up around 4am and 6am just wanting his pacey (he goes right back to sleep) so I went in at 4am and gave it to him. When I went back in at 6am, he was on his back! Little rascal! He's been trying to do it again, but his arm keeps getting in the way so he can't (it makes him mad too). It's so cute watching him try.

Mickey had a lot of fun with Grandpa Grit and G-Lo and his uncles last week. We stayed pretty busy. We brought Mickey to his first museum (the Museum of Life and Science in Durham). It was pretty cool and I am sure he'll like it much more when he's older. They had bears, wolves, lemurs, and butterflies! We got him a stuffed wolf to celebrate his first trip...

This week Mickey is enjoying time with his great aunt Cathy (my dad's sister) and his grand-memere (my dad's mom)! He's a busy boy, you know...

Cutie Pie!

2007-02-17T06:42:00.000-08:00

On Uncle David's Lap

Too Pitiful!

Big Smooch from Mommy

Mickey has a cousin!

2007-02-17T06:34:00.000-08:00

Well, Mickey now has his first cousin! My brother and sister-in-law welcomed their first baby, a girl, into the world yesterday! Jubilee Ann was born Feb 16, 2007...7 lbs 15 oz! She's absolutely beautiful! She looks so much like her mommy already...she shares her mom's (and aunt's) brown curls! Mickey still gets to be Meme and Pepe's favorite grandson...Jubilee is now the favorite granddaughter! I am loving being the aunt to a little girl too! Now I can buy the girly pink stuff for her. I don't think Mickey would want it :) Mickey looks so big now compared to his cousin.

I realized I hadn't updated you on Mickey's sleeping in awhile. He's been doing terrific! He usually has his last bottle around 6:30 or 7pm and then goes to sleep an hour and a half after that. He then sleeps (in his crib) until 7am!! No more midnight feedings!! Chris and I are loving that...It's been nice to get some sleep and I am very proud of Mickey. He's been taking much better naps now too in his crib. My big boy!!

Doctor Appointment

2007-02-07T06:21:00.000-08:00

Mickey had his big two month doctor's appointment yesterday! He weighed 12 lbs 4 oz and was 23 1/2 inches long! The doctor says that he looks great! He was in the 65% for weight, 75% for height, and 85% for head circumference! I guess he has a large head...lol...

He got four shots yesterday too...my poor baby! He did really well though! I was proud...he screamed as the nurse was giving him the shots, but as soon as they were done, he stopped! I gave him lots of hugs and kisses, my brave boy. He didn't act much different the rest of the day either. He slept and ate normally and was only a little cranky once and awhile. He feels slightly feverish today, but not bad at all!

Naughty Mickey

2007-02-05T16:06:00.000-08:00

Sorry about the mix up, but Mickey's appointment is actually tomorrow. I thought it was today but when I called to check what time, they said it's tomorrow. So, I will update you tomorrow on how his appointment and shots go!

Well, we are learning that although small and adorable, our little Mickey Seamus has quite a temper! He gets very angry when we take away his bottle to burp him! It's so obvious to us that he needs to burp, yet he wants to keep eating so he screams, arches his back, and kicks! It's so amazing to me that even though he's a baby (and what some might consider innocent) he still has just as much sin in his heart as a grown man! God's really shown me that it's so much like how I respond to Him sometimes when things don't go my way. No, I don't kick and scream physically, but in my heart I am still fighting Him when I want something and am not getting it. God knows what I need and what's best for me, and I need to trust Him!

New Pictures!

2007-02-03T14:44:00.000-08:00

Mickey in his new bouncy seat from Grandma! (I guess he likes it!)

He's a deep thinker :) Much like his mommy...

What a face!! His Meme took this picture while we were away overnight

The Morans!

Mickey's First Night Away

2007-02-03T14:38:00.000-08:00

Mickey spent his first night away from home last night! I surprised Chris and got a hotel room so we could sleep and just enjoy time away so Mickey stayed with his Meme and Pepe (my parents) overnight! Chris and I really missed him, but it was nice to have time alone. His Meme says he did really well although I am sure he missed his mommy a whole lot!

He's getting WAY to big! He'll be two months Monday, but I am already having to start putting him in 3-6mo clothes! I don't think that's very fair to me. He's also moved up in his diaper size.

He's very active! I think he will definately be an athlete...he's holding his head up very well and he loves when I hold him and let him stand on his legs a little bit...He loves to bounce! The other day I was holding him on the floor and letting him stand, and he put one foot in front of the other and walked four steps with me holding on to his waist!!! I REALLY don't think that's fair for my baby to do to me...

Doctor's Appointments

2007-02-03T14:33:00.000-08:00

Sorry that I haven't written for awhile! I thought I would update you on the past week though. I brought Mickey to the doctor's last Friday and got some Zantac for his reflux which seems to be helping! They weighed him and he was 12 lb .08 oz I believe...Tuesday he went to WakeMed to get the birthmark on his back looked at and it all came back perfectly normal!! I wasn't too concerned about it but it's nice to know. The doctor said he just has a low spine. It's not too low, but it's one the low side.

He goes to the doctor Monday for his 2 month checkup and has to get some shots!! My mom is going to come with me so I don't pass out watching them stick my poor baby...

7 Weeks Old!!

2007-01-23T15:01:00.000-08:00

Wow! Mickey is 7 weeks old today! It's amazing that it seemed like forever for him to actually come, but now that's he's here it's going by so quickly! He's really losing that "newborn" look which is sad for me because I am learning how quickly they grow. It's still fun though because although he's growing, he's also learning new things and that makes it worth it! I love his smiles in the morning...there's really nothing like having your sweet baby look up at you in excitement and smile...his whole face lights up and he opens his mouth so wide like he wants to talk to me! What a blessing children are.

God has been so good to Chris and I. This time last year I had just miscarried...I would not have thought that a year later I would be snuggling with my baby boy...God really is awesome and His plans are so much better than our own. Although it was sad to lose the last baby, we wouldn't have Mickey now! I can't imagine not having him...every day is so special and new!

Sleepy Head

2007-01-23T13:57:00.000-08:00

Mickey likes to get comfortable sleeping on the couch instead of a crib...he watches Mommy and Daddy do it all the time!!

Feeding Changes

2007-01-21T20:32:00.000-08:00

You know, reading through the past few entries, I realized I hadn't informed everyone of a very big decision Chris and I had to make about Mickey...after a lot of thought and prayer, we have decided to put Mickey on formula. It was a very hard decision to make seeing as I always thought I would breastfeed for a longer time, but God seemed to have other plans for our boy and that is perfectly fine with us! We ultimately want what's best for Mickey and not what we want for ourselves...he seems to do much better on formula in that he is full and not still hungry, and just some other issues that we were seeing with him when it came to nursing...he takes the bottle extremely well (in fact, he's quite the little piggy when it comes to it). It's been very humbling for me, which I am grateful to God for, and He has shown me a lot about my expectations and desires the past few weeks.

Please pray for Mickey also because he has been showing some signs of having slight reflux problems. It's been nothing serious, but it is causing him to spit up more than usual and for him to have some stomach pains. I am planning to talk to the doctor about this next time, but just pray that God gives him relief and even healing! The formula is definitely staying down better which is helpful. He's such a sweetie and I am so thankful to God for giving him to us. God has truly blessed us with this boy and I can still hardly believe he's finally here!

Mickey's Baby Dedication

2007-01-21T20:04:00.000-08:00

Mickey, Daddy and Mommy during prayer

Grandpa, Grandma, Aunt Cally, Mommy and Mickey

Mickey was dedicated at church today! Chris had to speak and he did a great job! Mickey would be proud...he was asleep instead of paying attention...

Mickey's Sleep Patterns

2007-01-20T06:53:00.000-08:00

Wow...I haven't written for awhile...I KNOW you all have been on the edge of your seat, checking this site hourly to see when I would post something new...lol...well, here it is!

Mickey has been sleeping really well this week! I've only had to get up and feed him once a night! When he falls asleep around 9 or 10, he hasn't been waking up until 4:30 or 5:30! He even slept until 6:30 one night! It's kind of funny to think I was ever getting up every 1 1/2 or 2 hours to feed him...it's so nice to get more sleep. In fact, Chris was a sweetie last night and let me sleep all night while he got up and fed Mickey...it was very nice! I slept really lightly though because I am not used to being able to do that, but it was still extremely restful. What a great husband I have and a great daddy Mickey has! (Chris is passed out upstairs right now though...lol)

He hasn't been wanting to sleep through the night in his crib though. I've let him sleep in his carseat while I sleep on the couch a couple of times. The other night I had fed him at 10:30 and put him down in his crib and then Chris and I went to bed. Right as I was about to fall asleep I heard him wake up and start crying. I knew he wasn't hungry because it had only been an hour, and I knew I had just changed his diaper. I went in to check on him and he was screaming so I picked him up. He stopped crying immediately, looked up at me, smiled and cooed! He just didn't want to be in there! I couldn't believe it! They start young, don't they...

Mickey has his dedication at church tomorrow! It'll be funny to have him up there getting dedicated with his aunt Cally!

Go Red Sox!!

2007-01-11T11:44:00.000-08:00

Red Sox Fan Mickey!

(these were taken awhile ago, but I thought I would put them on here anyways!)

5 1/2 Weeks and Still Growing

2007-01-11T11:37:00.000-08:00

Mickey has been doing pretty well sleeping in his crib! Chris is thankful because he's been able to get more sleep...when Mickey does well, I am able to sleep more too! He's been being pretty consistent with waking up at 3-3:30 and then 6-6:30. Somtimes he goes longer than the 6-6:30 feeding too which is nice. The past few nights he's gone until 8 so he's been sleeping a 5-6 hour period and then a 4-5 hour period which I think is great! During the day he is eating about every three hours.

He hasn't been naping as much during the day either so he has more awake/alert time. He's very smiley in the mornings too which has been so sweet to see! I love getting all the smiles I can! He's doing great with eye contact too. He follows Chris and I with his eyes when we move and will just stare us in the eyes for long periods at a time! It's so cool to see how he develops and what changes are happening! He just keeps getting cuter and cuter all the time!

Doctor Appointment

2007-01-05T12:48:00.000-08:00

Mickey had his one month appointment today and it went really well! He weighed in at 11 lbs and was 23 inches long! The doctor seemed impressed with how strong he's getting and how well he is doing with lifting his head as well! They gave me some growth charts for him and he's in the 75% for weight, 90% for length, and 88% for head circumference (it's 39 cm)! Big boy!

Mickey gave me his first real smile today!! It was so cute! I was talking to him this morning and he was looking at me and just gave me this really wide smile and cooed at me! How sweet for his one month birthday!!

My Big Boy!

2007-01-04T10:20:00.000-08:00

Mickey has officially moved out of our room into his own room and crib! It was his second night in there last night, but the first night where he was actually able to sleep the whole night in his crib. It's weird not having him in our room anymore, but I think it's more helpful because Chris sleeps through Mickey waking up now, and I don't have to hear every little noise he makes. This way we are both able to get more sleep...Mickey slept over 5 hours last night too which was nice!

It's so cute to see him in his crib because he looks so small compared to when he slept in the bassenet. My little baby is growing!! I'm anxious to see what the doctor says tomorrow about his weight. He's been such a little piggy lately...it's so strange to think that he's going to look big next to the newborn babies that are being born at church! He's been one of the youngest, but not anymore! (well, technically he's still one of the youngest, but you know what I mean)

Yes, More Pictures (I'm a mom, can you blame me?)

2007-01-02T05:45:00.000-08:00

Mickey on the couch with "Rufus" the penguin

Mickey hugs Mommy at Nana and Poppy's house

Meme holds Mickey at church

Mickey and his Aunt Cally

Four Weeks Old!

2007-01-02T05:34:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that Mickey is four weeks old today! Time is really flying by...I think it must be because he keeps us so busy, but it's still so strange that it's already been almost a month since he was born! He's been changing too...he's been making a lot more eye contact which has been really fun! Although he's always seemed to like music, it seems like he likes it even more now. Last night he was crying pretty hard and Chris took out his guitar and started playing for him, and Mickey stopped crying immediately and started looking around for where it was coming from. He actually did that twice last night!

He's started sleeping better as well. The past few nights (with the exception of last night) he's slept 5-6 hours straight where as before he was sleeping 2.5-3 hours! So, Mommy is very happy with that! He's been going through a growth spurt though and has been wanting to eat a lot and sometimes very often. He goes to the doctor again on Friday so we'll see how much he weighs!

Chris stayed home all of last week which was so nice. He had to work from home, but it was still wonderful to have him here with us. He went back to work today which made Mickey and I a little sad...we got spoiled...

Christmas Pictures

2006-12-27T15:51:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from Christmas Day at my parents house...

Merry Christmas from the Morans! Besides Mickey screaming (he really hates having hiccups), this would have been a great Christmas card photo

Mickey snuggling with his Pepe

Mickey doesn't know what to think of Christmas yet

Mickey with his favorite thing of all time...his pacey!

Merry Christmas!

2006-12-26T07:57:00.000-08:00

Mickey had his first Christmas yesterday! It wasn't too exciting to him, but Chris and I enjoyed it for him...I'm sure he'll enjoy his toys eventually! It was really cool to be able to have a baby here for Christmas though. It's going to be so much fun to build family traditions with Mickey and see the excitement that he shows (yesterday he just wanted to sleep). Mickey gave us a nice present...He let us have a good night's sleep! He only got up once in the middle of the night on Christmas Eve!

We've found out that Mickey really likes music! Whenever he starts crying really hard, we put on music and it calms him right down (and even puts him to sleep sometimes)! It's really cute too because it's usually rock music which you would think would keep him awake. We think it's because Chris and I listened to music so much while I was pregnant because he likes one of the bands Chris played a lot. Maybe we will have another musician!

Mickey had his first trip to church this weekend as well! He did very well, although he slept most of the time. Chris and I enjoyed showing off our beautiful boy!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! God bless!!

Pictures

2006-12-21T06:40:00.000-08:00

What an adorable face!!

Mickey looking out the window

Daddy and Mickey taking a nap

More Pictures...

2006-12-21T06:23:00.000-08:00

Mickey and Mommy snuggling and watching "White Christmas" at Meme's house

Mickey sleeping in the basket at his Meme's house (he won't fit much longer!)

Happy Birthday, Mickey!

2006-12-19T13:53:00.000-08:00

Today is Mickey's 2 week birthday! I can't believe it was two weeks ago that I had him...I feel like we just got home from the hospital. I guess it's because he's been keeping me so busy...although he didn't like it too much, we had to celebrate by going to the pediatrician's office. The doctor says everything still looks really good and he weighed in at 10 lbs 2 oz! My little porker!! He goes in January 30th for the ultrasound of his back, so you can still be praying for him. The doctor again reassured me that 95% of the time it turns out to be nothing, but they want to be safe.

Mickey liked having his grandpa here to spoil him!! No one can stop kissing his chubby cheeks! He doesn't mind too much though. He likes all the attention and cuddling.

I've started getting a persistant schedule set up for him! I was really getting frustrated because I felt like he was hungry too soon and that he wasn't having consistent nap times. I've been reading the Baby Wise book and it really helps...he's now eating every 3 hours which means I have plenty of time to build up enough so he isn't hungry. He's napping between feedings too which helps because I know when he eats and when he sleeps and can therefore actually plan my day accordingly!

Thanks for Your Prayers

2006-12-14T15:05:00.000-08:00

Well, I have been doing much better! My mom told me that drinking water and getting rest really help. I was surprised how much water can help my mood and my energy level, but it really does! She came over today and helped me out with Mickey which was so nice! It's great to have other women to talk to who know what it's like with a newborn and who can give great advice!

Mickey is definately starting to get a routine down which is great. He got up every two hours for a feeding last night, but he went right back to sleep afterwards which he hadn't been doing. He's also been being more awake during the mornings and evenings which helps him have a better afternoon nap schedule and bedtime schedule...so thank you God for how he is blessing me with helping get Mickey more scheduled! Please continue to pray that God leads Chris and I in wisdom for parenting and that He gives me the rest I need!

Mickey's grandpa (Chris's dad) is flying down to meet him and will be staying with us for the weekend, which we are very excited about!

Prayer Request

2006-12-13T08:29:00.000-08:00

Mickey did much better sleeping last night (thankfully)! I only had two feedings between going to bed and waking up...I was definately thankful for the sleep and I think Chris was thankful for the sleep as well. I am hoping he will keep this up! It certainly seems like he is starting to get used to his bed and going to sleep. Not that he doesn't fight us on it a little, but it's better. So please pray that he continues to get the sleep the whole family needs :)

Please pray for me...I am starting to have some of the post pardum hormonal stuff...yesterday was really hard on me. I think it was because Mickey was being pretty fussy and I wasn't able to have much rest, but I was pretty weepy. Chris was great when he got home and took over so I could rest, but just pray that God gives me the rest I need to take care of Mickey. And also for the grace to do it without resentment! I love our little boy very, very much and I want to be able to serve him in his needs without being depressed...lol...so, please just pray that God gives me some relief from the changing hormones and for grace for Chris as I walk through this! We both prayed last night and I am doing MUCH better today...It's at least good to know that this is my hormones and that it won't last forever. And, God is stronger than everything and can give me the relief and rest that I need. Thanks!

What A Cutie!!

2006-12-13T08:25:00.000-08:00

Thought you all might want to see a couple of pictures of Mickey not in the hospital...this was taken Monday, December 11th

What a face this guys has! He makes such cute facial expressions all the time...

He is our sweetie...who could say no to this face??

Pediatrician Appointment

2006-12-11T13:41:00.000-08:00

Mickey had his follow up doctor's appointment today. He went in Saturday and he had lost 2 oz so they wanted me to come back today just to check and make sure he had started gaining weight. I guess it's customary for babies to lose a little weight until the milk comes in so when he left the hospital he was 9 lbs 1 oz and Saturday he was 8 lbs 15 oz. Well, he has been eating like crazy so we weren't worried about it at all, but we prayed anyways that everything would go well. They weighed him today and he's at 9 lbs 4.6 oz! The doctor was calling him a little porker...lol...that's my boy! Anyways, that's a great weight gain (the doctor said he's showing off a little), so thank you Lord that he's eating well.

Everything looks really good according to the doctor. He has a small birth mark right above his tail bone which the doctor said looks fine, but they want to do an ultrasound of his spine just to make sure it looks good. He said if there was a problem there would be more evidence around the area (which there isn't) but they still recommend an ultrasound. So, just pray for that. Again, the doctor really isn't concerned and he said it's probably just a mark from being born, but prayer would still be appreciated! Besides that though, Mickey looks very healthy which we are extremely thankful to God for! He has truly blessed us with the most beautiful and wonderful baby boy :)

Keep praying for him with scheduling! He has his days and nights a little confused right now, but the doctor said he should faze out of that. He slept better (which means so did I) last night, but please continue to pray for grace for Chris and I as well as wisdom. Thanks!

His First Few Nights Home

2006-12-09T11:13:00.000-08:00

We've been surviving the first few days (and nights) home with little Mickey! He is actually a very content and happy baby and doesn't cry that much except for when he's hungry or when he needs his diaper changed. He loves to cuddle with his mommy and daddy too. He actually loves to sleep on Mommy's chest instead of in his bassinet...he still has his days and nights confused a little and doesn't like for his mommy to sleep much (he just wants her to cuddle him) but he's doing better. Feeding has been going extremely well too, thanks be to God. Mickey is just a wonderful baby to have around. Chris and I can't stop kissing on him.

We went to the pediatrician's office today for his first visit and they said that he looks really great. His weight went down 2 oz so they want to see him Monday just to see how things are going, but it's not a big deal because babies tend to lose some weight the first week. Mickey was a real trooper through it, he didn't cry at all! I will keep updating you on our precious baby and add pictures as they come!

Introducing Mickey Seamus Cooligan Moran

2006-12-08T11:32:00.000-08:00

Mickey Seamus Cooligan Moran
Born 12.05.06
9 lbs 10 oz 22 inchesMommy and Daddy's first picture with Mickey

Mickey was a very peaceful baby and took time to stare into his mommy's eyes

Although extremely tired, Chris was a great help and was very proud of his baby boy

Mickey is Finally Here!!

2006-12-08T11:19:00.000-08:00

Monday night around 10 pm I started going into labor! I wasn't quiet sure if it was real or not, but when the contractions started getting worse and closer together, we decided to go to the hospital and got there around 2:10 am. God was so faithful and extremely awesome during the whole labor! I received my first epidural not too long after I arrived because I was already 4 cm when I got there. It was working very well which was helping. Jamie came into work around 7 am and was able to come on as my nurse!! My epidural tube had come out somewhat because they kept retaping it, so I received a second one because the pain was getting intense. They put me on a pitocin drip to help make my contractions a little stronger and also broke my water. By then I was 5 cm.

The doctor came in after awhile to check on me and I had only gone up .5 cm and was not really effaced any more than I had been. It was then that she told me that she believed I was going to need a c-section! Although Mickey was doing fine, he hadn't dropped down into the pelvis anymore and my contractions weren't doing much although they were intense. Dr. Wind said she believed he was just too big for me. She said we could wait an hour and see if anything changed, but she really doubted it would. Jamie encouraged me to wait the hour and we'd pray. So, my mom, Chris, Jamie, and I began praying that God would do a miracle and make it to where I would be able to deliver without surgery. (Thank you to all who were also praying on our behalf...)

The doctor came back in forty five minutes later and checked and I was 7 cm dialated, fully effaced, and he was right where he needed to be!! What an awesome God!! The doctor said I was fine and would probably be able to deliver naturally. Around 11:10 she came back and checked and said I was ready to push! I was extremely exhausted and had been dozing, so I didn't even believe her at first...God was again faithful and gave me the strength to push and even some pain so I was able to feel when and how to push! The doctor told me to be prepared to push for up to 2.5 hours, but again God was full of grace and 20 minutes later Mickey Seamus Cooligan Moran made his appearance into the world to be greated by his mommy, daddy, and two of his grandmothers!

Appointment with Dr. Wind

2006-12-04T08:25:00.000-08:00

I had my last doctor's appointment today with Dr. Wind...that's a relief to know I finished and next time I go there for my 6 week check up, I will have a baby...

She said that I am 3 cm dialated and about 80% effaced which is great! His head is fully engaged which means that he is right where he needs to be for labor and delivery! She stripped my membranes in the office too which she said, if my body is ready (which it seems to be), should bring on labor. So, we are hopeful and prayerful! In case I don't go into labor, they have scheduled an induction for Monday the 11th for me, but I am hoping I don't have to wait that long. At least there is an end in sight though and I know I don't have to wait longer than that! Just keep praying for Mickey to hurry it up and that everything would go smoothly and according to God's perfect purpose!

At Least it's Getting Closer...

2006-12-03T17:17:00.000-08:00

We're still hanging in there! Chris and I didn't go to church today just in case, but nothing happened. It was nice to get some rest though. It's very uncomfortable to sit in those chairs for an hour when you're nine months pregnant! It will be very nice to be thin again (and able to see my feet, and actually have ankles..)!!

Chris is going with me to the doctor's office tomorrow which will be nice. They should be planning an induction for me to happen in the next couple of days. It will be nice to have an end in sight and actually know when we should be having Mickey. Just pray that everything goes well tomorrow and that they are able to plan the induction and that it wouldn't be too far away. Pray for me to continue to trust God and His timing. I know this will all be worth it and I can't wait to hold my baby boy!

I will keep you updated on what the doctor says and when I should be getting induced (if I don't go into labor before then). And, we will let you know once I go into labor and when the baby comes. If anyone wants to visit us in the hospital, we can try and schedule it if you call us once he's born. We probably aren't going to be passing the baby around at church (sorry, I am a paranoid soon-to-be-mother) but we would like close friends and family to be able to get a chance to see him and hold him.

Thanks for your prayers!!

Mickey's Room

2006-12-02T12:25:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of Mickey's Nursary for all the women out there who like to see these sort of things...sorry to the guys who don't!

He has great shelves in his room for blankets and toys

Here is the guest bed that will be great for getting up with him

Here's a view of his dresser that has all his pajamas, shoes, socks, and other things like that

Here's his crib! We love the elephants...

Due Dates Come and Go

2006-12-02T12:19:00.000-08:00

Well, as you can see, he didn't come on his due date...he just wants his mommy to be all the more excited to see him by making her wait even longer! Sorry to those of you who guessed Friday or Saturday afternoon (including myself) for him to be born. He's being a little stubborn. My mother-in-law reminded me today that the more he's in there, the stronger and healthier he'll be...I can't complain about that! It's weird, however, because I was telling Chris that it feels like since he wasn't born before or on his due date, he isn't coming at all, which is NOT true! It's weird to think that, but it's like I missed it or something. It's really going to be a relief once I am laying in the hospital bed and they say I am really in labor (and once the epidural kicks in...lol...) I hope everyone is having a wonderful day on this beautiful Saturday afternoon!!

The Countdown Continues

2006-11-30T14:38:00.000-08:00

Well, we are getting to be at the wire here. We are still waiting (somewhat patiently) for our son's arrival into this world. Tomorrow is his due date which is amazing. Chris and I still can't believe that by next week we will have a baby in the house that is ours! It's kind of crazy to look at our lives and see how much has changed in the past 3-4 years! God has truly blessed us with a wonderful marriage and now a baby. It's just amazing that we still feel like kids ourselves in so many ways and yet here we are getting ready to raise a child (I had just started getting used to being a wife, let alone a mother)! I thank God for all the wonderful people and experiences He has brought into our lives these past years, I am certainly not deserving of such grace. It really just points back to how awesome and glorious our Heavenly Father is!

Any guesses on what day Mickey will come and how big he'll be? We can see who will be the closest...Hmm...I am going to guess Saturday afternoon and 8 lbs 10 oz...

My Pregnancy Growth

2006-11-29T14:23:00.000-08:00

Me at 16 weeks- I thought I was showing so much! I was amazed that my stomach was growing and couldn't wait to see how large I would get

Me at 7 months- I couldn't imagine getting any larger...

Me at 8 1/2 months- but I was sure able to! You can see my dad laughing at my belly in the background...

Yes, I have grown a lot this past year...and I am even larger now! (no comments or agreements from those who see me thank you...)

Appointment with Dr. Inge

2006-11-29T11:13:00.000-08:00

I had my appointment with Dr. Inge today and he said I haven't changed too much. He said I might be a little more effaced but not much...sigh...I am going again Monday instead of Wednesday so if I haven't had the baby by then they will schedule an induction for me. He seemed hopeful that I would have the baby by this weekend though. So just keep praying! I would really like to have the baby before next week...obviously... but I must be patient. He still has a couple of days before he's late so I can give him some time :) There's no reason to think I won't go into labor before this weekend so I need to not get anxious. Thanks for listening to all my rambling these past few days!!

Patience is a virtue...

2006-11-28T12:39:00.000-08:00

It's extremely hard to be patient, do you all know that? It's weird because I don't think I have ever had to wait for something like this where I didn't know when something big was going to happen (except waiting for Chris to propose, but I didn't have a week of "is it today?") and it is nerve racking! I know that God's timing is perfect and far supperior to when I think something should happen, but it still doesn't make my brain stop! I know all the waiting will be worth it... I've waited nine months already, I can certainly wait a couple more days...(or is it hours or a week? AHHH!!) Hurry up Mickey Seamus Cooligan Moran...your mommy is going to go insane!

This Past Weekend

2006-11-27T06:16:00.000-08:00

Well, I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!! Mickey did not come, but I think he will be here very soon. I have another doctor's appointment Wednesday (if I can make it till then). He has been giving me a lot of contractions and cramping so it could really be any day now! Chris and I both are getting very excited and trying to be patient. I can't believe that his due date is Friday! It seems like it's gone by very quickly in some ways and it's hard to imagine we might be holding our little baby boy by this weekend!! I will keep you all updated!

Appointment with Dr. Taylor

2006-11-22T12:35:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! I went to the doctor again today and everything still looks good. Dr. Taylor says I am now 2 cm dialated and about 50% effaced! It's not much, but it's progress. She's on call until Friday night, so I am kind of hoping I will go into labor sometime in there...I really want her as my doctor as I am sure I have said before. She seemed like she thought there was a chance I could go this weekend, but we'll see. He's definately been doing a number on me. My iron is still a little low, so I need to take more iron pills. Well, not much else happened at the doctor's...she said his heart rate sounds very good, and she thinks he has dropped some more which is also good.

I hope everyone has a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving! Maybe Mickey will decide to come (after lunch) and give us yet another thing to be thankful for this year!! God bless you all!!

Appointment with Dr. Taylor

2006-11-15T09:17:00.000-08:00

Well, I had my doctor's appointment today and it went pretty well. I was hoping I would be more dilated, but I was only a little more than 1 cm. I am 40% effaced though and Dr. Taylor says my cervics feels soft which is good. She doesn't think I have fully dropped though because his head is not engaged yet. She also says she thinks he is about 7 1/2 lbs right now! My iron is a little low so they gave me some iron pills to take. My strep test came back positive too (surprise, surprise...I always get strep) but she said that it's not a big deal and they will give me penicillin during delivery. So, it was a busy appointment, but a good one (besides the strep and iron).

I go back next week, the day before Thanksgiving, so we will see what that holds! I get to see Dr. Taylor again then too which is great. You can keep praying that she will be the doctor who delivers Mickey. I like the other doctors too, but she is the one I've seen the most and the one I really want...

He's Practicing for His Big Day!

2006-11-13T07:51:00.000-08:00

Well, Mickey has definately been practicing for his delivery...I have been having pretty constant contractions (not too constant in intensity though). I had contractions every 2o minutes and then every 10 minutes for several hours on Friday night. They've been like that the past few nights, actually, so I am still hoping that I'll be more dialated when I go to the doctor's on Wednesday morning.

I had Jamie feel where the baby was on Saturday and she said that his head is still down (as it should stay until delivery now) and that it does seem like I've dropped a bit. According to her, his head feels like it's right above my pelvis too which is an indicator of dropping and a good sign. I'm really relieved to hear that because it means he should be fine for a natural birth and God willing, no c-section!

I'm a little anxious about not knowing when he's going to come...I mean, they tell you the due date, but really he could possibly come anytime and not know what day or what time is a little nerve wracking. Just keep praying that God gives me peace and contentment until the day arrives, and that all goes smoothly with delivery. I really want Jamie to be my nurse so you can pray for that too :)

And the wait goes on...

2006-11-10T13:40:00.000-08:00

Well, I am 37 weeks today! Woohoo! Only three more weeks to go (and hopefully not more than that...less than that would be nice...) until Mickey finally graces us with his presences! He's still been pretty active. He doesn't kick anymore, but he does slide his arms and legs around quite a bit. He wants to remind his mommy that he is well and getting ready to come.

It's very cool that so many women from church are having babies all around the same time. It'll be fun to have playmates for Mickey and so much godly wisdom from the mothers in church. I am sure that I will need LOTS of it! It's so intimidating to think that Chris and I will be raising a man and how all that we do affects him. I am so glad that God doesn't leave us here to do it on our own, but gives us wisdom and the help of others in order that we might glorify Him through our parenting.

I am really excited that we will have a baby for the holidays. It makes it all the more wonderful to be able to have our son there with us for Christmas this year (even though he won't be doing too much). It's been fun Christmas shopping for a baby too. Chris says he's too young to even care about presents, which is true, but it's still fun for me! (And for Chris...he's just as excited and I am sure that as Mickey gets older, Chris will be the one wanting to buy more presents for him...)

Getting Ready

2006-11-08T13:44:00.000-08:00

Well, Mickey is trying to get ready...he starting to drop! (and for those who don't know what that is, it means he is getting into position near the pelvic bone...it doesn't mean that he is going to fall out or anything) It's exciting to think that he'll be coming soon...although the extra pressure and running to the bathroom more isn't fun. I've had two nights in a row where he's woken me up and had me wondering if he was going to be coming, but it was just a false alarm. He was nice enough to let me sleep last night (except for the runs to the bathroom...sorry to the guys who might think all of this is too descriptive...)

Chris and I had our nursing class this past Monday...poor Chris...he's being such a good sport with all the details that go into pregnancy and having a baby. He's going to be such a great father to Mickey. He's already VERY excited (as am I) to see our little boy. It's so great to have such a supportive and helpful husband. It makes this whole experience all the more wonderful! We are both so excited to do stuff with Mickey...dress him in his cute little outfits (although Chris wouldn't word it that way...lol...), bring him for walks, and all the other fun stuff. Sorry, back to the nursing class...it went really well! It was very helpful and definately confirmed our decision to nurse Mickey. It helped relieve some of my anxieties about it as well. It confirmed it for Chris as well when he heard how expensive formula can be...lol...that's Chris for you :)