It's the Most Wondeful Time of the Year

A few snapshots of our household during this Christmas season.

These snapshots helped me to slow down. To bask in this season and to pay attention to the details in our lives.  The details that we see every day and tend to overlook. During this time of year, we can easily get swept away with everything that we think needs to be completed.  All the perfect decorating, finding the perfect gifts, the perfect wrapping of said gifts.  It can all be so overwhelming, especially to a new mom. 

At times I felt like I was the most disorganized person.  I didn’t get all my decorations out. Holiday baking failed to happen.  I was lucky to even purchase gifts, let alone wrap them in pretty packages. But you know what, our family had a little blessing to celebrate.

Christmas is not about how many gifts we receive.  It’s about so much more…the heartfelt giving, the family traditions, the moments that we experience, the birth of one little baby boy. Having a child has caused me to look at Christmas in a new light.  How do I want to share this wondrous season with Mason?

I want him to know about a little baby born in a manager. I want him to know about the spirit of giving. I want him to experience the comfort of family traditions. This is what Christmas is all about and sometimes it’s so easy to get caught up in all the receiving, the hustle and bustle of trying to be everywhere at one time, or trying to please everyone.     

While completing some shopping before Christmas I overhead a woman discussing her plans for next year. She was tired of having to put up all the decorations herself, of having to buy all these gifts for people. Next year, she was putting up a tiny tree and heading on vacation. She was not going to mess with anything. Now, there’s nothing wrong with taking a vacation during this time of year, but I felt disheartened to hear what Christmas had become to her…a hassle. I’m afraid this is what happens to many people.

For our family, I do not want that to happen. I do not want Christmas to become a hassle. I want the Christmas season to be filled with joy and excitement. I want to be intentional with our attitudes, so Mason can see what Christmas should truly be about.

And a word from our sponsor

My heart

This is one of my favorite pictures with Mason. I can't exactly remember when I took this, but it was during my maternity leave. I just want to hold him forever, cuddled up close to my heart, especially after the tragedy that occurred this past Friday.  As we go about our daily routines, preparing for Christmas, families are grieving, trying to understand how they could possibly keep going. Babies were lost that day.  They were just babies.  A parent's nightmare.  And my heart aches for them.

It rained on Friday evening, tears from heaven. Crying over the violence, but those babies were welcomed with loving open arms. 

It's still hard to fathom though.

Mason James : 4 months

Mason, you have reached your 4th month and we continue to be amazed with your development.  Each day brings a new experience and we love every minute of it. Your personality is starting to shine through and it has been amazing getting to learn who you are, Mason, even at this early age.  

  

You are such a content little guy.  Laidback, just taking in all of your surroundings.  You have no problem with anybody holding you and have enjoyed getting to know all of your extended family. 

You do tend to save your discussions for when you are around those closest to you.  And then you really express yourself, sometimes quite loudly.  It's fun hearing you find your voice.  Your Daddy and I have even been able to make you laugh, really laugh, and that has to be one of the greatest sounds ever.  Just melts our heart every time. 

We were able to bring home an early Christmas gift from your Granny and Pawpaw.  The jumparoo.  You can spend a fair amount of time playing, slobbering over all the toys, grabbing toys, you have even figured out the concept of jumping which causes the music to play. You get so excited!

You have rolled over from your stomach to your back twice. That was only after you reached a certain point of frustration about being on your stomach and then you grunted and gradually threw your body over.  You can really prop yourself upon your arms though while on your stomach.  We'll keeping working on the whole rolling over concept.   

For a few nights, our little sleeper was no where to be found, but he's back.  Whew!  Mommy and Daddy are happy about that.  It's hard on us when you cry, especially when alligator tears are involved.  I think you were going through a growth spurt.  Otherwise, you are a great sleeper, sleeping through the night or just getting up once during the night.  No complaints from us with that! 

You are a drooling machine these days.  It seems like I can't wash bibs fast enough! And the culprit...a tooth.  You are definitely growing teeth. You constantly chew on on your hands and everything goes straight into your mouth. I can even see the top part of the tooth in your gum.  We're just waiting until it cuts through. 

You had your checkup this week.  Your stats are: 13 lbs. 14 oz. 27 in.  You definitely take after your Uncle Robby.  Long and lean!  Speaking of Uncle Robby...you like to hang out with him and I just know that when you get older, you're really going to enjoy your time with him.

Mason, joyful is one word I would use to describe you. You bring such joy to our lives and just look at the world with such awe and wonder.  You study it, which, in turn, makes us slow down and take note. The simplest gesture or noise will make you grin and sometimes even laugh. Other times you just look around and stare with those big blue eyes. Focusing and checking things out, not missing a thing. Thank you for being you, for coming into our lives and showing us another way to love. You are beyond special to us and I just want you to always know that.

One Year Ago

Bright and early on the morning of December 2nd, 2011, I took a test. One of the most important tests of my life.  Little did I realize how my life would completely change with the results.

Just one word. Pregnant. 

For the past 9 months, I waited and wanted to see those lines and now they were before me. I was shocked.  I couldn't believe that a little one had started growing within me. It was surreal.  I took two other tests and sure enough each one showed positive.   

Oh, how life has changed. Amazing, how I am a mom now.  A title that I had always desired. Even though at first it was intimidating and still is at times. I just knew I wanted to experience motherhood.

And what a ride it has been so far and we are just in the beginning of our story.

Missing

Missing: Peaceful sleeping baby.

(See picture above)

If anyone has seen this serene face with not a care in the world, please, please return...for the sake of his tired parents.

Thanksgiving

We enjoyed our first Thanksgiving with our little man.  He isn't quite able to enjoy the yummy food yet, that will come next year, but he is such a joy to celebrate with the family. Our blessing this year.

And celebrate we did.  It was a wonderful time visiting with all of our family.  We started the Sunday before with a visit to Columbia where both my mom and dad's family live.  It was the first trip with Mason.  He enjoyed meeting everyone, especially all of his cousins! On Thanksgiving day, we went to my parents' home where Mason joined us at the table for a delicious feast. Then on Friday we headed to visit Hubby's family for the weekend.  Lots of love was shared during this week, especially introducing Mason to family and friends.  Such blessings that we experienced!

Thank you Father for such a special time. Thank you for all of the joys in our lives.  We appreciate the time with our families, a time to catch up and enjoy one another. Thank you for all the love that is in our lives. Thank you for all we have been given! 

Friday night entertainment

Just another evening on the farm...

I never thought that I would see this come down my driveway, but then I have always lived in a subdivision.

I must say I'm intrigued with watching the combine work and on Friday night, we had not only one, but two combines in our fields.  It was time to harvest the soybeans, or rather what was left of them.



I think Mason is going to enjoy this entertainment when he gets bigger.

Crib Time

About a week ago, Mason made the big move from his pack n' play in our bedroom to his crib.  I think this move was harder on me than him.  He has had no problems whatsoever sleeping in his room.  It probably helps that he's sleeping on an actual mattress and that his bed no longer moves easily. 

Our Mason is one active boy, that's for sure.  Even in his sleep. He manages to move all around his crib...not really rolling over though.  I never know how I'm going to find him in the morning.  It just amazes me how much he moves around while he's asleep... 

This seems to be his favorite sleeping position.

You're already keeping me on my toes, Mason. 



3 Months

Mason has been a part of our lives for 3 months now.  He brings such joy into our lives each and every day. 

Mason, we just look at you and continue to thank God for you.  You are our little blessing.  You have started "talking" to us even more now.  We love to watch your little lips as they try to form noises.  You have so much to say and we are always ready to stop and listen.  

Your smiles and giggles are addictive.  I just love to see your entire face light up whenever you see me or your Daddy.   Your bright blue eyes are so big and really focus on us and your surroundings, you even watch us as we move around the room. 

You are great at holding your head up now.  This helps you to keep an eye on  your surroundings.  You are such a curious little boy. You have even started trying to sit up on your own. 

  You love to kick your legs. On the changing table, your play mat, our bed, your crib, your carseat.  Doesn't matter where you are, your legs are on the move.  Sometimes you even get your arms moving too.  I can only imagine when you get bigger, how active you will be.

You are a thumb sucker.  At night you would sometimes take a pacifier, but now, you want nothing to do with a paci.  Only your thumb and you have no problem finding it for yourself.  There's nothing sweeter than watching you soothe yourself as you fall asleep.   

 

Oh Mason, we hope you hold on to your inquisitive nature.  Embrace the world and learn from it.  Always take the time to be aware of your surroundings. To really appreciate all of it.  To learn from it.

Our sweet boy, how we love you.  To the moon and back. Always remember that.

Back to the world of adults

I want to thank everyone who thought of me today and kept me in their prayers.  That meant so much to me as I faced this day. 

Today I joined the working world once again.  After 12 weeks of living and breathing motherhood around the clock, it was time for me to get up, make myself presentable and learn how to carry on adult conversations.  I've had an emotional week just preparing for today when Mason would attend daycare. It's been hard.  I cried. I worried. I prayed. Quite a bit actually.  It hurt my heart to have someone else care for him, to see all his sweet smiles and to have someone else hear his conversations.  For me to miss out on these moments.  Especially the fact that he has been struggling to even take a bottle.  How could he possibly be away from me?  

But, you know what, it all worked out.  He took a bottle...2 actually.  Ms. Phyllis worked her magic and my boy was able to take his bottles.  Talk about a relief.  Once I called and checked on him during the day (no Mason crying in the background...whew), my heart was finally able to settle down.  He was fine...stomach full and chattering to his caretakers.  

And the real question is how did I do, since we know Mason is a "go with the flow" kinda guy?  I made it and enjoyed my productive day.  I had my cry and I talked with God on the way into work while listening to K-love. I arrived at work and jumped right back into the flow of it.  Even getting the hang of talking with adults again. :) I felt more at ease once I had my progess report of Mason. The day went quickly for me.  It also helps that I am now working part-time and have flexible hours.  Thank God for a wonderful boss and place of employment!

Another positive note...my guys sent me flowers to help me get through the day.  How blessed am I to have such thoughtful guys in my life??

Road Trip

We did it.  We survived our first road trip as a family of three.  (We did have some passengers that were along for the ride...my mom and brother.  They definitely helped us out.)  Of course, we were not without some battle scars...bags under our eyes, stained clothing and one tired baby.

And this wasn't just a short road trip.  Oh no, we decided Mason's very first road trip would be none other than Chicago.  Normally, a six hour drive which turned into a seven to eight hour drive due to potty and feeding breaks.  Despite the diaper blow outs and spit up, Mason was a champ.  He managed to sleep most of the time.   We did have a few unhappy noises and faces at times, but once he found his thumb, all was right in his world. 

The reason for this road trip...celebrating my best friend's wedding.  Laura and I have been friends since high school.  So many wonderful memories of adventures that we have been through together over the years.  No matter the time that passes we can always catch up right where we left off.  I admire her so much.  She found her way to Chicago after college, not really knowing anyone and made her place there...she has made it her home. 

I was so excited to be able to stand by her side this weekend, so excited when I received her invitation asking me to be a part of her special day.  So relieved that the timing worked out where I would be able to make it and not be too pregnant or that Mason would be too young.   

But, this trip wasn't without its challenges.  Trying to coordinate a long trip with a baby is tough.  Making sure I packed enough. Coordinating times to nurse and times to pump.  Having your baby take a bottle which has been a struggle.  Making sure baby gets some sleep so as not to disrupt all the events. The long drive.  I was worn out even before we left just thinking about everything.  But despite all this, I knew I didn't want to miss this.  She had stood by my side two years ago and I wanted to be there for her, to witness her special time. 

I'm so glad that despite all my worrying and struggles, we made it and survived with flying colors. 

And the wedding was absolutely stunning.  Like out of a magazine stunning.  Laura was beautiful.  Her dress was perfect. The colors and how all the details were thought out and meshed flawlessly. Laura did an amazing job planning it all, but I knew she would...she's my creative friend :)  

Our sweet Mason, he did great.  He had his breakdown moments, but for the most part, he went with the flow and was a huge hit with everyone.  He did get to spend quality time with his Grandma during the wedding and later that evening which he enjoyed. 

Here are some snapshots from the day:

[Me and the Bride]

[The whole family]

[Bridal party table at reception]

[Dessert Bar which consisted of about 4-5 round tables.  Amazing!]

[Groom had Superdawg brought in later in the evening.  We really enjoyed these famous hot dogs!]

[Mason saving his energy for the reception.]

[The next morning at breakfast]

To Laura:  You are beautiful, inside and out.  Thank you for always being there for me, for being a constant in my life, for the many laughs that we have shared and even for the shoulder to cry on at times.  I am so happy that you have found "your lobster" (sorry, just had to include the Friends reference). I wish you and Joe a lifetime of happiness.  Seeing the two of you yesterday, seeing the joy and love radiating on your faces not just during the ceremony but the entire evening, I was content.  Content that you are happy, that your love story is strong. Marriage is not always easy, but just remember this day, the moment of your vows and hang on for the ride because it is a ride.  Sometimes exhilarating, sometimes bumpy but knowing that you have a partner by your side makes it all worthwhile in the end.  And Joe will be right there by your side.  Walking along with you.  Hand in hand. Hold on tight Laura, it's a wonderful ride.  

With all my love,  Jayme 

 

[At the salon]

  

Fall. Favorite Season.

Living in Kentucky, I'm able to experience my favorite season...fall. The landscape, comfort food, the clothing.  I just adore everything about it. At our new home, I am really getting to experience the changing landscape.  We live just about 15 minutes from town and have quite a bit of land now.  Trees galore and they have all started changing colors.  Absolutely breathtaking. It's a blessing to be surrounded by God's creation.  It helps me to stop and take the time to appreciate the details. 

Being intentional.

We went yesterday to check out the daycare where Mason will be while I'm at work.  It is a great facility and highly recommended.  Everyone was extremely friendly and they knew the children.  The lady watching the infants is experienced.  But...the bottom line is that she is not me. 

Even though I still have a couple of weeks before I head back to work, I wanted to cry yesterday at the thought of leaving him.  Morning time is our time.  It's a time when we have our best talks.  When he loves to play on his mat. It hurts me to think about losing these times. 

I know I'm not the only mom out there that goes through this.  It's hard no doubt and I sent a text to one of my best friends here who has been in my shoes already.  She pointed out that taking him to daycare while I work will make the time that we spend together that much more special.  I appreciated her response and it made me think about how our time is spent.  I know I want to be more intentional with my time.  It goes by too quickly otherwise (I've especially noticed this with having a child).  With limited time with Mason, I want the time that I do have to really mean something.  I want us to build upon those special moments.  This should be the case not only with Mason, but with Hubby.  With both of us working, our time together is in the evenings and weekend.  We need to put down our cell phones, limit the television time.  I know I'm really guilty of this.  That way we can solely focus on each other.  We can build and strengthen our family, on what's really important.

 

It's the little things...

Like sweet little feet.

in handmade loafers.  Love.

Doctor Visit

Yesterday was Mason's two month doctor's visit, which means our first vaccinations.  I held him while he was given the shots and let's just say that this was one sad momma.  As soon as the nurse poked his cubby little thigh, he started wailing and I had to look away as tears welled up.  Three pokes and then came two bright blue crayon band aids.  His wailing didn't last too long thankfully, Hubby and I cuddled him, quickly dressed him and got the heck out of there. 

Hubby went on to work so Mason and I headed back home.  Normally, Mason doesn't really make much noise in the car but this time he had plenty to say.  No, he didn't cry.  He "talked".  I can only imagine what he was really telling me...then he feel asleep. And that is how we spent the majority of our day. Plenty of sleep and cuddles.

As to his doctor's report...excellent.  He is 12 pounds 1 ounce and 24 and 1/2 inches.  We have one long and lean little man!

2 Months

Our sweet Mason has reached his 2 month birthday!  It's amazing to see how each week brings more development.  He is such a joy in our lives.  Don't get me wrong, we have our times where we have no clue what we are doing and he certainly can't tell us what is wrong, but despite that he's such a light in our lives. 

You are growing up so quickly, Mason!  Now, you are able to actually focus your bright blue eyes on mommy and daddy and even follow us around the room occasionally.  Your grip is getting even stronger and you like to hold onto our fingers, clothing and even mommy's hair when it is down.  You love to lay on your playmat and look at the flashing lights and toys while listening to the music, and you especially love to kick those legs and swing your arms to hit the toys.  Most of the time you would rather be up and about, checking out this all new world around you.  You definitely don't want to miss out on anything!!  You are struggling with taking a bottle from daddy in the evenings since you would much rather have mommy, but we'll keep working on that. 

You are also working really hard to strengthen that little neck of yours and you are doing such a great job!  You don't mind tummy time at all and sometimes you even fall asleep but not before you raise your head up several times.  It is so amazing to see you hold your head up when we are holding you.  I just can't get over how much you are growing.

One of the sweetest moments is every morning when you wake up.  You are such a morning person!  We wake up to your eyes wide open and your sweet grin.  You just love to "talk" to us too.  We just can't get enough of your sweet conversations. 

Mason, you have definitely changed our lives.  Our dynamics as a family have shifted.  Things might not come as easily to us as before, but we would not have it any other way.  You are such a blessing and a joy for us.  To see characteristics of both of us in you is such a gift.  An amazing gift.  We take our job seriously to raise you to be a child of God, to make your mark on this world, to be loving and compassionate to all.  

Always remember that you are loved, by so many people, especially by God.  You will never be alone, my sweet Mason!

We love you to the moon and back!