Martin Menagerie

One Year Ago...

2009-08-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

God gave me the biggest blessing and miracle gift one year ago. Cooper was born via C-Section at 7:12am weighing 7 pounds 12 ounces. I feel so honored to be the mommy to such a special little boy. He is full of smiles, laughter and joy. It has been amazing to watch him reach so many milestones this year. He has 2 teeth on the bottom and several coming in on top. He has a funny sense of humor and loves to listen to music, splash in his pool and tug his Max the Monkey around. I have never experienced the overwhelming love that I feel for my precious boy. Happy Birthday son. Love, Mommy

Lions, Tigers and Bears..Oh my!!

2009-07-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

SO, we had our first trip to the zoo. It was a blast. We packed a picnic and headed out. I was excited because I had never seen the pandas at the Memphis zoo. Cooper enjoyed looking at all the animals and really enjoyed having his first picnic. We made the mistake of feeding the squirrels and then they must have all told a friend. Before we knew it , squirrels were coming from everywhere wanting a treat. Oops!!

First swim with Mommy

2009-07-29T08:40:00.000-07:00

So, I decided Cooper needs to get in the pool and have some summer fun. So we pack up and head on over there. He really seemed to like it and enjoyed splashing in the water. The funniest part to me was the other kids' reaction to Cooper. This little girl swam over to him and said "I love him." He was a big hit and he loved his little boat.

Two Teeth

2009-07-29T08:24:00.000-07:00

Finally, we have our two front teeth. I was beginning to think we would have to ask Santa for some more teeth. He doesn't seem to be too terribly bothered by teething. Thank goodness.

Monkey Swinging

2009-05-31T11:14:00.000-07:00

Cooper has a blast in his swing in my backyard. He loves to go fast and high. If I let it stop or start doing something else, he lets me know that he isn't happy. I can't wait until he is old enough to go to the park and get on the big boy swing. He is NOT a big fan of his sunglasses however. As soon as you put them on his head, he tries to take them off.

Cooper and his Mommy

2009-05-31T10:59:00.001-07:00

There is a special bond between a mother and her son. People told me about it before Cooper was born, but I didn't quite understand. People told me " Boys love their mommas" and oh how this is true. He has just gotten to where he prefers me over anyone else if I am in the room. He wants me to hold him all the time. Our bond is very deep, and I love him to the moon and back. When we are apart my heart is broken, and I am not whole until we are reunited. I feel so honored that God allowed me to be a mommy to such an amazing little boy.

COOPER and his POOL

2009-05-31T10:46:00.001-07:00

Cooper loves splashing in his pool on the back patio. He gets all duded up in his swimsuit and he takes his favorite bath toys out to play in the pool. He has so much fun and even likes to lay on his stomach and kick. It looks like we have a little fish on our hands.

FIRST TOOTH

2009-05-31T10:39:00.000-07:00

It finally arrived. For many months now, everyone has been saying Cooper is teething. He was drooling alot, chewing on everything and fussy at times. So, every night before bed I would do the infamous tooth check. But, to my surprise there was never a tooth. 7 months came and went and then 8 months came and went with no teeth. But finally, at 8 1/2 months, there it was on the bottom. Just one but so cute. Now I am just waiting for the one beside it to come in. Here is his grin showing off his new tooth.

We are BAC K!!!

2009-05-31T10:01:00.000-07:00

Well, what can I say? The last 3 months have been quite the journey but I am now back to blogging and chasing around my 9 month old baby boy. I can hardly believe he is 9 months old today. He is crawling everywhere and into everything. Cooper also got his first tooth. Just one. So cute. He is obsessed with remote controls, keys and doing whatever he can to not get his diaper changed. He has started this new goofy grin when I get out the camera. ( see Photos) He cracks me up.

Priceless Video

2009-01-24T19:52:00.000-08:00

I didn't realize Josh had this video until this week. As we were going thru our old videos, I found this one from the day Cooper was born. After I had a hurried C-Section that was extremely stressful, they rolled me into the recovery room. Up until then, I didn't have my glasses on so I couldn't even see Cooper's face. I put my glasses on and looked at Cooper, and he started making this precious noise. He did it for about 2 months after we got home. Boy, how I miss that sweet sound. I wouldn't take a million dollars for this video. It seems just like yesterday, but it has been almost 5 months.

Sensitive Boy

2009-01-24T18:15:00.000-08:00

Every night Josh plays music for Cooper on his iTunes. He normally plays about 15 to 20 songs. He has the funniest reaction to one particular song....
"The Rose" by Bette Midler. Every time he plays this song, Cooper has the same reaction. I think our boy is a little sensitive. This is so hysterical to us. He does this every single time. Check out the lip quiver before the big cry. Do you think he knows this was one of the saddest movies of all times? Josh cut it off before he really got going because we felt so sorry for him.

Sunday visit with Cooper's 89 year old Great Papaw

2009-01-11T17:10:00.000-08:00

We take Cooper every Sunday over to see my grandparents which are Cooper's Great Grands. My Papaw is 89 years old and has cancer. We have almost lost him several times over the past year but he keeps bouncing back. He absolutely lights up whenever he sees Cooper. He just grins from ear to ear. It is so sweet to see their precious interactions each week.

Cooper's first pair of Big Boy Shoes

2009-01-10T19:00:00.000-08:00

Well, Josh and I headed out today to find Cooper his first pair of shoes. See, he has been living in his footed pajamas so there has been no need for socks/shoes. But, now that we are dressing him in big boy clothes, we have been putting socks on him. The problem is that they all fall off. His foot is so chubby that they won't stay on. To find ones that won't cut the circulation off his ankles is next to impossible and when we do, they are too big in length and slip off. So, shoes..here we come. He transformed into a little boy from a baby the moment we put his shoes on.

Out for a stroll on a warm January Day!!

2009-01-04T13:32:00.001-08:00

It was 68 degrees on January 4th so we decided to get Cooper out and go for a stroll around the neighborhood. He was fascinated by all the sights and sound and really enjoyed looking around at everything. The jogging stroller is going to be a daily event since Mommy has a New Year's Resolution to start walking every day.

Little feet....oh how I love little feet.

2009-01-04T13:29:00.000-08:00

Cooper's little feet always make me smile. I thought it was too precious they way his feet looked when he started sitting up so big in his Bumbo. And, on December 31st, he found his feet while laying on our bed. Now, as soon as you lay him down on his back, he lifts his feet up to play with them.

Happy New Year !!!

2009-01-04T13:24:00.001-08:00

Cooper brought in 2009 with a bang. We dressed him up in all the festive gear and tried to keep him up until midnight. That didn't really work out so we did the countdown a little early. We told him how awesome 2008 was because it was the year he was born. Cheers to you little buddy.

Cooper Loves Cereal

2009-01-04T13:13:00.000-08:00

Well, the time has finally come to start solid foods. We have been trying to hold off until 4 months. So, the big day came and he LOVED it. When I say love it, I mean LOVE it. He is a great eater and opens his mouth so big when he sees the spoon coming. As you can see, he is all smiles when it is feeding time.

O Happy Day!!

2008-12-27T22:26:00.001-08:00

What a Happy Boy! When I see his sweet, joyful face, it makes me feel like we are doing a good job with him. I pray that he keeps his precious spirit and happy disposition.

Santa Claus is Coming to Town

2008-12-27T21:50:00.000-08:00

Family Photo

Cooper's cousin Aubrey giving him "check up"

Opening presents Christmas morning with Papa and Susu

"I think I have been a good boy this year."

Loving my Exersaucer from my Mimi

Little Ball of Cuteness!!

2008-12-20T12:54:00.000-08:00

Watching Alabama Football with Daddy

2008-12-20T12:47:00.000-08:00

Two peas in a pod
So sad we are losing to Florida..darn that Tim Tebow
Cooper REALLY watching the TV....scary.

First Christmas Tree

2008-12-20T12:41:00.000-08:00

Cooper really enjoyed watching mommy and daddy put lights and ornaments on the tree. He sat in his chair and just took it all in. He put on the last ornament which was a Baby's First Christmas ornament. I can't wait to start all these new holiday family traditions with Cooper.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-20T12:35:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas. Sorry for the delay in blogging. We took Cooper to see the Santa out at the Collierville mall and it was awesome. He sat on Santa's lap and Ms. Claus was there too. It was so much better than trying to fight the Wolfchase Mall crowd.

Ready for school

2008-11-30T09:28:00.000-08:00

You can never start too early. Ready, set, read.

Max the Monkey

2008-11-30T09:14:00.000-08:00

I wanted Cooper to get attached to something like a blanket or luvie to help him transition from the happy swing to the big bad crib. So, I found this little monkey that was soft and just the right size. It is so funny b/c I put it under his arm when I am rocking him to sleep and he rubs on it until he goes to sleep. We have named him Max. Hopefully, they will best buds for years to come.

So thankful for two stuffed turkeys.....

2008-11-30T09:05:00.000-08:00

Well, this was Cooper's first Thanksgiving. We have a lot to be thankful for. A healthy baby that wakes up every morning with a smile on his face. A baby that seems to have inner joy and peace. A roof over our head and health insurance. Thank you Lord for your many blessings.

To Swaddle or not to Swaddle..That is the question.

2008-11-24T13:22:00.001-08:00

Well, here's the deal. My son is addicted to his swaddle. For those of you that don't know what a swaddle is it is a straight jacket for babies. The first time I saw it done I thought "Is that legal?" It felt so inhumane. But, let me tell you, it works. Cooper loves it. You can't make it tight enough. As soon as he wiggles his way out of it, he wakes up crying. He wants it tight. I mean TIGHT. This is the only way I can get him to sleep. I know sounds a little rigid. Anyway, imagine my horror when I realized he was outgrowing the swaddle. What?? This can't be happening. I set out on a mission to find an extra large swaddle. To my surprise, not only do they make one, it goes up to 18 pounds. So, we should be good for awhile. I want it on record that Cooper was happiest when swaddled so when he gets older he can't use it against us. ..:)

The Curse of the Swing

2008-11-24T12:59:00.001-08:00

From the moment we got the baby swing..by the way, thank you very, very much to Jennifer for letting us borrow it, Cooper has loved it. I mean he practically wants to live in it. We started putting him in there more and more and putting him in his basinette and crib less and less. Who am I kidding, he hardly ever was put in the crib. Actually, that is where I would put him for a few minutes so I could fold clothes or unload the dishwasher. As my husband says "Nice, he has a very expensive play pen." Anyway, I was reading in the sleep book about how bad swings are and how they artificially put babies to sleep and they never learn to sooth themselves. I would have read this book sooner, but no kidding, every time I would read the Sleep book it would put me to sleep. Well great. That is the only way to get Cooper to go to sleep is to swing away on the fastest mode. He will sleep in it for hours. But, 2 nights ago we decided it was time to make this baby sleep in his crib at night. This endeavor is not for the weak. I tell you my calm, mellow, easy going baby screams bloody murder as soon as he is laid down. I mean the type of screaming that is like "Call 911, I am being abused" type screaming. You are probably thinking "Well, how long could that last?" 2 hours I tell you. 2 full hours. I wanted to cry uncle several times and give up. But we are pressing forward with night 3 of this torture. I am sure he is wondering why we can't go back to good ole carefree days of swinging. My answer is because he will eventually grow out of the swing, and then we are in a whole heap of trouble if he won't sleep in his bed. Please pray for us as we continue down this road. We will not be defeated by this 13 pound baby. I hope.

3 months old

2008-11-24T12:49:00.000-08:00

Here we are with a 3 month old. Hard to believe. Time has just flown by. Cooper is getting so big and changing every day. He is really interacting with us alot and cooing when we talk to him. He is the happiest when he first wakes up. He stretches out on his diaper changing table and gives us the biggest smiles. He seems to have such a joyful spirit. I pray that stays with him. Inner peace has eluded me my entire life, and I pray that my son feels joy, happiness and peace. I want him to laugh at the small things and not worry so much about tomorrow. I want him to know that God will take care of his needs but not always his wants. I want him to be a giving and compassioante soul that doesn't feel entitled to the world. I pray over him at every feeding. I pray for him to be healthy first and foremost. I pray for him to be safe and happy. I want him to know how much he was wanted and adored every day of his life from the moment he was conceived.

Holding head up...so BIG!!

2008-11-20T21:12:00.000-08:00

Is that a puppy looking back at me?

So inquisitive

Man, this is hard work. Can't I just play and goof off?

SO much tummy time that he passed out
just sitting up.

Nothing to do with tummy time....just so cute...
his new footed pajamas Mommy loves anything with puppies on it.

Cooper has been doing his daily tummy time in order to strengthen his neck muscles and learn to hold his head up without assistance. Just in the last week, he is really holding his head up and looking around. I told him we are on a major deadline because I want him to be able to hold his head up in time for the First Christmas Card picture...:) Surely, he will oblige his sweet momma. He will be 12 weeks or 3 months on Sunday. Boy, time flies when your sleep deprived...I mean having fun.

Check out the eye lashes..

2008-11-20T21:02:00.000-08:00

We have been surprised about how quickly Cooper's eyelashes seem to be growing. Josh thinks he is starting to look like a girl with such long and curly lashes. I tried to tell him that girls will swoon and mommy is head over heels for those lashes. I hope they stay that long forever.

Mommy..I don't like my Pooh coat.

2008-11-18T17:09:00.000-08:00

We bought Cooper this really cute Winnie the Pooh coat that is like a full body suit. Kinda like what you wear when you go skiing. Well, since it dipped below 60 degrees this weekend, I thought it was time to bust it out. It was hysterical. We put Cooper in it and laid him on the Diaper changing table. He wouldn't move. He was stiff as a board. He was wide awake and his eyes were wide open but he wasn't even blinking. I think he thought he really couldn't move. Bless his heart. When we went to put him in his car seat to go out to the weekend trek to Papa and Susu's for the Alabama game, he wouldn't bend for me to put him in it. That is when my husband mentioned that I might be going a little overboard with his "protective outerwear." Who me? Overboard?

We love our Bumbo...not!!!

2008-11-18T16:36:00.000-08:00

The first time we put Cooper in his Bumbo, he really seemed to love it. The Bumbo, for those of you that don't know, is an awesome invention. It is a chair that is made out of a rubber material that a baby can sit in really before they can sit up by themselves. Well, evidently, that was a fluke because now this is Cooper's reaction to the Bumbo. What gives? What is not to like about it? Maybe he will grow to love it. We are hoping the same thing about his crib.

The second picture is what happens when we put him in his Papasan chair. What is his deal? It is so nice and cozy. I would love one if they came in an adult size. Unless he is being held or in his swing, he is not a happy camper. So you know, first child syndrome, we end up holding him all day and night. I know. We are setting ourselves up for a major battle. Just like a diet, we will start that "putting him down"project tomorrow.

Warning...this appears worse than it is..Don't report us.

2008-11-18T10:37:00.000-08:00

Well, Josh and I are pretty much obsessed with getting the perfect picture of Cooper. He always does the cutest things..we run and get the camera..and then he stops. I guess that is Murphy's Law. Well, this day we had him propped up in his chair because he can't sit up yet by himself. Josh and I were busy taking pictures when we turned to talk to each other. When we looked back, this is what we found. Uh Oh. Then this conversation followed. " I thought you were watching the baby. No, I thought you were watching the baby." Our sweet Cooper didn't even cry, but boy did we feel bad. Sorry buddy.

It's Photo Shoot Sunday!!!

2008-11-03T13:11:00.001-08:00

Check out those eyes.......Beautiful!!

What is that out the window?

Is this almost over? I am getting tired.

8 Weeks Old Today

2008-10-31T23:16:00.000-07:00

Our sweet boy is 8 weeks old today. I can hardly believe it. He is growing so fast and really smiling at us. He loves to snuggle and is happiest in the arms of his mommy and daddy. He gets so excited to see Josh when he comes home from a business trip. I am enjoying and relishing every single moment. Even these up all night parties that Cooper likes to host every night from 1am to 4am seem so precious. Thank you Lord for this most amazing gift and blessing.

Halloween Fun

2008-10-31T23:02:00.000-07:00

I love that my mommy has pajamas
for me for every holiday.Check out my Halloween Pj's.
I make my Great Papaw smile. He is 89 years old!!
Ummm...I sure am hot. Can you unzip my outfit? I know
you want me to look cute but I burning up in this costume.
BIG SMILES...........PRICELESS!!

He is really responding to us and starting to show
so much personality and a sweet spirit.

Splish Splash I was Taking A Bath

2008-10-31T22:51:00.001-07:00

I am just going to lay here and cross my feet, okay?
Do you mind? Why do you always take pictures when
I am naked? Can't a baby have a little privacy?
Bath Time is too much fun!!!
Check out my abs.

Alabama vs. UT football game

2008-10-27T21:59:00.000-07:00

ROLL TIDE!!!!!!

Daddy, watching this game sure is fun!

What is all this stuff? Oh yeah, I remember. Big AL and the famous Cup.Whoever wins the game gets to keep it for an entire year.
This is kinda boring. Alabama wins.
Can I go nite nite?

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-26T19:15:00.000-07:00

Well, so here the story goes. We waited all day until Cooper was in just the right mood to go get his picture taken at the Agricenter Pumpkin Patch. He had been so smiley all day. Finally, the stars seemed aligned. So we dressed him up and raced up to the Agricenter to get the perfect picture. And wouldn't you know, as soon as we get out of the car, Cooper vomits all over his costume. No worries. Even though he seemed highly aggravated, we kept on with our plan. He became really fussy and wasn't digging this photo op. Doesn't he know this is his first Halloween and that Mommy has waited her whole life to have a little pumpkin? Obviously not. It is amazing what you will resort to to get the "perfect picture." I spotted a U-shaped gourd and thought I could lay him on it like a Boppy and get the greatest shot. Never mind the fact that it was hard and there were ants crawling around. We were on a mission. Well, we got a few pictures and then the unbelievbale happened. The battery died on the camera. Now those of you that know my husband, know that he is a camera/picture fanatic and always comes prepared. However, in the furor to get to the Agricenter, he left the camera bag at home with the extra batteries. So, not the day we had planned but a memorable one to say the least. And wouldn't you know, the cutest picture is one we got in our backyard before we left. Happy Halloween.

Friday Fun with our Little Man!!

2008-10-24T22:05:00.000-07:00

We decided to have a photo shoot tonight and very few of them turned out the way I had envisioned. I never knew getting baby pictures could be so challenging. How does Anne Geddes do it? She makes it look so easy. He would always do the cutest smile right after we put the camera down. Cooper is really getting more alert every day and is such a BIG bundle of Joy. We love and adore him so much.

Daddy is Home!!

2008-10-23T22:21:00.001-07:00

Josh went out of town for 4 days this week. That is the longest time that he has ever been away from Cooper. When he came home and picked Cooper up, Cooper was captivated by him. He couldn't take his eyes off of him. He kept smiling at Josh and was watching his mouth. At one point Josh kept sticking out his tongue, and I promise you, it appeared Cooper was mimicking him. I know that seems impossible at 8 weeks, but it sure seemed that way. Maybe a mommy's imagination. It looks like he is madly in love with his daddy. And I thought he only had eyes for his mommy!

Growing up too fast!!

2008-10-22T22:02:00.000-07:00

When I was pregnant, time crept by as slow as Christmas. Days felt like weeks. I thought he would never get here.Now I have turned around and Cooper has gotten so big. He will be 8 weeks old on Sunday. He has already outgrown his newborn clothes and has moved on to a stage 2 diapers. Time is just flying by. I kiss his precious face every night and stare into into sweet eyes to capture every moment. I don't want to forget a thing. Because Cooper was a fertility baby, I realize he may be our only one. Part of me wants him to stay this little forever so he will always hold tight to my finger and let me snuggle him close to my heart every night before bed. He is the biggest ball of love. As I sit here typing this, I tear up at how God has poured out HIS abundant LOVE for us by giving us this precious gift.

Having a Fun and Relaxing Sunday!!

2008-10-19T22:01:00.000-07:00

Playing with Daddy on my Activity Gym!!

Why the serious face? All is okay.

Oh my gosh!!! Have you seen anything cuter?
This is Cooper watching the Red Sox game with his daddy.
Hey mommy, I love you!!!

2008-10-18T23:04:00.000-07:00

That's it. I am calling my grandparents. What's their number?
Mommy, why do you make me wear all of these silly hats?
I am loving the doggie ears.
Sleeping. Check out those cheeks. I could kiss them all day long.

Saturday Fun at Papa and SuSu's

2008-10-18T22:50:00.000-07:00

Headed to Papa and Susu's for the Alabama Football Game
Taking a nap on Mommy.....Priceless Memories!!

Our Little Man is Smiling Back at Us.....

2008-10-18T22:28:00.000-07:00

Hey, I think I recognize those people..Mommy and Daddy, is that you?

He loves laying under his Activity Gym. He will do it for about 20 minutes and just grin and swat at the toys. He seems to really enjoy it. This is the Baby Einstein one. I totally recommend it.

Taking a nap. Have you seen a sweeter face?
I love the way he has his little hand tucked under his cheek.

We are BACK...baby acne....Lactose Free Formula..and now we are six weeks old!

2008-10-14T21:06:00.000-07:00

We have been MIA for multiple reasons. One of which was our sweet baby had the craziest case of baby acne that I have ever seen. His entire head, face and neck were covered in little red bumps. We took him to the pediatrician and she said "That's totally normal." What? That was my baffled reply. I never remember my friend's precious little ones with this teenage nemesis. She reassured us it would get better, and it has over the past few weeks. His perfect complexion at birth is a thing of the past, but he is slowly outgrowing his baby acne. Of course, we love him no matter what and just nicknamed him our little speckled frog. Next, we have been dealing with vomiting when Cooper eats. I don't mean spit up. I mean projectile vomiting that comes from his mouth and nose. And usually with no warning so you can rest assured you will be covered in it. So what did I do? I took him to the pediatrician. We were told that was normal. What? That was my baffled reply. She said babies do that and don't worry. Well, after 6 weeks of watching our son vomit every day, Josh and I took it upon ourselves to change his formula to Lactose Free. WOW!!! What a difference. He hasn't spit up one time and is sleeping in 4 hours intervals. Everyone is much happier around here. My heart was breaking to watch him suffer and not know how to help him. He is 6 weeks old now and is really responding to us and smiling. He always gives me the most priceless one in the middle of the night when no one else is watching or witnessing. Those are just our special mommy and son moments that I will always remember. Motherhood is the most amazing job/responsibility that I have ever had, and I look forward to being employed for the next 18 years. Who are we kidding? He will always be my little boy until the day I die.

Cooper met his Aunt Jo and Uncle Gene

2008-09-28T14:16:00.000-07:00

Cooper's Aunt Jo and Uncle Gene drove all the way from Birmingham, Alabama to meet him this weekend. It was such a special time for them to finally meet. We miss you already Uncle Gene and Aunt Jo. We love you.

It's time for Alabama football......

2008-09-28T14:02:00.000-07:00

Well, We are HUGE Alabama fans, and it it always a great day when there is a football game on TV. Yesterday, we loaded up the car and headed out to Papa and Susu's to watch the ball game. Who knew you had to take everything but the kitchen sink when you try and take your baby out for a long outing? We loaded up Big Al. ( see picture) He is the stuffed elephant that plays the Alabama fight song that Josh plays every time Alabama scores a touch down. Some call it crazy, we call it just being enthusiastic. Alabama was playing Georgia yesterday and we won 41 to 30. So, Big Al got a lot of playing time. Cooper had so much fun. Actually, he slept the entire time we were gone and rested up for his nightly party he likes to throw from 1am to 5am. Roll Tide!!

Reading with Cooper

2008-09-28T13:53:00.000-07:00

Let the learning begin. I love books. They are my all time favorite gift. That is the teacher in me. We have been reading to Cooper every night trying to foster his love of reading. I know. He is only 28 days old. Is it ever too early to start?

Cooper listening to Amos Lee

2008-09-24T23:21:00.000-07:00

Well, the whole time I was pregnant we played music for Cooper on my tummy. It is so amazing that now when he is fussy, we will play some of the same music and it calms him down. He really seems to respond to music which makes our hearts so happy since Josh is such a music hound himself. He was so alert and looking at me when we were playing this song by Amos Lee.

Little feet and little toes....

2008-09-19T20:59:00.000-07:00

I just love baby feet. I could take a million pictures of them. I just marvel in the precious beauty of baby feet. When Cooper takes a bath, he has started crossing his feet in his little hammock. It is the cutest thing ever. He looks like a beach baby relaxing in his hammock. He really enjoys a bath. He gets so calm and just takes it all in. Also, I just relish his sweet expressions. It is so miraculous to view the world through the eyes of a child.

Our first bath

2008-09-12T07:58:00.000-07:00

The BIG day is finally here. The umbilical cord fell off and we are all excited to get our little man in the tub for some splish splash fun. We got this bath tub that has a little hammock in it. We filled the water up and put him in it. I was prepared for mayhem because so many friends had said that their babies didn't like the first few times in the tub and screamed the whole time. Well, Cooper loved it. He sat there so tranquil and calm and looked like he was reveling in a major indulgence at the spa. He kept lifting his leg for us to wash it. It was so funny. Cooper is so mellow and it takes a lot to get him worked up. We keep thinking maybe they switched our baby with some other baby at birth...:)

Cooper's two week check up

2008-09-12T07:13:00.000-07:00

Well, we went to the doctor for his two week check up. Cooper has gained 3 more ounces and is now 7 pounds and 13 ounces. We were actually a little surprised that he had not gained more because his cheeks look like they are filling out. His umbilical cord finally fell off yesterday on the way to the doctor. Yippee!! You know what that means? Scrub a dub dub in the tub. Also, his circumcision is healing up great.... another one of momma's concerns...:) We love our pediatrician and feel so confident in Dr. Christian's hands.

Hunter finally acknowledged Cooper.......

2008-09-10T08:22:00.000-07:00

Hunter has had the funniest reaction to Cooper. He has acted like he doesn't even exist. He walks all the way around him in a room. He hasn't even acknowledged that he is in the house. Lat night, he came up and sniffed him for the first time. It is like he thinks if he is doesn't acknowledge him, then this isn't really happening. Can we say doggie denial? Too funny.

Holding Cooper....

2008-09-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

There is no better feeling than holding Cooper close to my chest and snuggling with him. He is just a ball of love and sweetness. He is our little lovebug. Yesterday, I just held him for hours and stared at his face. I marveled in every part of him. It is still unbelievable that just over a week ago, he was inside of me. He also seems so mellow. Who would have thought? A calm and tranquil baby coming out of me? I know. Seems impossible. But, so far he doesn't get worked up about much except when he is hungry. We give God all the glory for this Gift.

Hunter's Big Adjustment

2008-09-07T22:46:00.001-07:00

As many people know, Hunter is my 6 year old lab that was actually my first baby. He was my buddy who went with me everywhere..to the postoffice..to the bank...to the Walgreen's drive thru. He slept with me and followed me around the house. He was never within 2 feet of me. We have what some might say is an unusual bond or unhealthy attachment to each other..:) Well, my heart has been breaking this week as I look at Hunter. He has kinda gotten lost in the shuffle. We don't let him in the nursery. So, he just sits outside the door with this sad look on his face. I feel like he looks at me saying " Remember when I was your number one buddy?" Yesterday, I just layed in the floor with him for 30 minutes. Sometimes, I pass by him now without acknowledging him only to turn around, and he is just standing there looking at me. Hunter, I am so sorry that you have been moved down a notch. When Cooper gets big enough though, you will have a forever friend and playmate.

He is growing right before our very eyes........

2008-09-07T21:09:00.000-07:00

Josh and I were looking back at the pictures of Cooper from his first week of life. He has already changed so much and is growing right before our eyes. I want time to stand still. We have had so many sweet moments this week with him. He got to watch his first Cardinals game with his daddy, meet his great grandparents, sleep in his crib ( which I thought he wouldn't be doing for a long time..:), and went to see his pediatrician twice. We wake up every day with a wonder and excitement like we have never known before. We just sit and stare at every fold in his eyelids and his little finger and toes. We want him to just be happy and know the Lord at an early age.We feel like we have been given a huge responsibility, but we are up for the challenge.

Cooper met his 89 year old great grandpa today.

2008-09-07T20:57:00.000-07:00

What a special day today. My 89 year old Papaw came over to meet Cooper today. He has cancer, and we were uncertain as to whether he would still be here when Cooper was born. Papaw kept saying, "What a sweet baby. What a good baby. I love his little hands." It was one of those priceless moments that you wouldn't take a million dollars for. It was a day we will never forget.

You Are My Sunshine..My Only Sunshine..Our first week with Cooper

2008-09-06T22:48:00.000-07:00

We have just celebrated one week of life with our son Cooper. It seems like he has been here forever, and we can't imagine life without him now. He is settling in so nicely and is doing very well. We have had lots of visitors and family coming by every day to just peek at him and give him kisses. He is the sweetest little boy and such a snuggler. His daddy and I just stand over his crib and thank God for our blessing. We love you son.

7 ounces in 2 days.......

2008-09-06T10:36:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like being told your baby isn't getting enough nourishment. We started out the first day of his life by overfeeding him at which point he was vomiting every time we fed him. As a result, we decided to cut back on the amount and frequency of his feedings. Well, at his first doctor's appointment, we were told he had lost 9 ounces. Now, I know all babies loose weight at first, but he is a formula fed baby who began eating from the very start. So, his weight loss was a little concerning. Imagine our delight when we were told this morning that he had already gained 7 of those 9 ounces back in just 2 days. Way to go Cooper. I was a proud mommy and felt like I was doing a better job of providing for him and his needs. He is also still a little jaundice but we plan on getting him some sunlight today. We go back on Thursday, September 11th for his 2 week checkup.

I don't want to miss a thing...........

2008-09-06T04:06:00.000-07:00

All new moms have to get some sleep. But I have been feeling so guilty about sleeping because I feel like I am going to miss something cute or memorable and not be able to get that moment back. I just want to savor every moment and remember every little detail about Cooper's first days. I had this overwhelming feeling when I was holding him tonight that I don't want him to grow up and get any bigger. I want to be able to hold him in my arms and snuggle him close for the next 18 years. Is that so unreasonable?? I want him to always be my little boy and I to always be his first love. The phrase" bundle of joy" is so trite and overused but it describes him perfectly. He is our precious gift from God. Thank you Lord for this extraordinary blessing. I promise to do the best I can to raise him up right while glorifying Your name in the process.

What a blessing ! God has been so good to us!!!

2008-09-05T17:48:00.000-07:00

We have our little boy home with us. Things are going great and he seems so sweet and alert. He is such a snuggler which is what I prayed for while he was in the womb.We took him to the pediatrician on Thursday and his weight had dropped from 7 pounds 12 ounces to 7 pounds 3 ounces. She encouraged us to try and feed him more volume and more often. The problem is sometimes he just doesn't seem to be that interested in feeding. We are going back in the morning for another weight check. We are loving every moment home with our precious gift.

Well...it wasn't Braxton Hicks!!!

2008-09-03T20:32:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 30th, I woke up having pains in my back. I was cohosting a shower for my best friend who is getting married September 13th. So, I went to the shower and felt a little "off" while I was there. By the time I got home, my back pain was intense. I knew it couldn't be labor because our scheduled C-Section was still 5 days away....:) By 1:00am I knew something was amiss. I tried to lay down and had intense pain in my back and side. I called the doctor and was told to come on in if they persisted. I got to the hospital at 5am and was already 3cm dilated. Within 30 minutes, I was 5 cm dilated. What???? I hadn't gone to the birthing class and this wasn't the plan. Then, it got scary. My heart rate dropped to 80/40 and I was feeling very faint. Then, nurses came from everywhere and started turning me, putting oxygen on me, checking for a prolapsed cord, and ordering a C-Section stat. It was by far the scariest moment of my entire life. I was thinking " Are we going to get this close only to have it snatched away?" We were taken to the operating room where Cooper was born at 7:12am weighing 7 pounds 12 ounces. What a coincidence!! He was crying and was in distress when he came out. His APGAR was 3. After some aggressive suctioning and oxygen, we heard the best sound ever. A loud cry that makes every parent feel so relieved and thankful. So, here we are at home on our first night with our little man. He seems so sweet and alert. We are overwhelmed with thankfulness, awe and of course, madly in love with this precious baby. Let the adventures begin.

What is this braxton hicks..labor..just trying to make me lose my mind!!!

2008-08-30T09:21:00.000-07:00

Since last night, I have been having pain in my stomach like cramps but also pain in my back. I couldn't sleep a wink, and in fact got up at 4:30 to take a shower just in case this was it. It went on until about 10:00am this morning and now has calmed down. Well, I didn't realize how much I feared going into labor until last night. I am a scheduled C-Section due to my Multiple Sclerosis and on the advice of my doctor, I need to avoid laboring and delivering vaginally in order to reduce my risks of a relapse after delivery. This is making me crazy. Is craziness enough of a medical reason to call it a day and order a C-Section like STAT!! Since this is my first baby, and I haven't had any braxton hicks before maybe that's all this is. How would I know? How does any woman know? Today is Saturday and Thursday seems like a lifetime away.

The waiting continues....

2008-08-29T15:00:00.000-07:00

Well, we went to the doctor and I am still only 1 cm. She wanted to do an ultrasound and they estimated his weight at 8 pounds 3 ounces. Wow!! I think he is going to be a big boy. She said my amniotic fluid was high at 27 whatever that means. She said based on her experience, she thinks since I am only 1 cm and just 6 days out, she thinks I will go all the way to next Thursday. Just 6 more days right?? Everything is feeling so cramped and full and tight. I can barely breath or walk. Actually, just sitting even hurts. This little baby is going to make us wait until the last moment to see his sweet face. And, boy will it be worth it. Somehow I have lost 3 pounds this week so that mean Baskin Robbins every day from here on out. Yahoo!!

The C-Section is booked!!!

2008-08-20T10:45:00.000-07:00

The office just called and said the C-Section is booked for 7:30am on Thursday, September 4th. My heart skipped a beat when she said that, and it was a surreal moment writing it down on the calendar. I am so glad we are her first one of the day so the wait will be as short as possible until we meet Cooper. I am praying for a smooth and uncomplicated surgery, and of course, a healthy baby. 13 days from now we will lay our eyes on the most amazing gift imaginable....our son.

Cooper's nursery is finished!!!

2008-08-18T22:11:00.000-07:00

At last, we have everything finished in Cooper's room. Just in time for his arrival in 16 days. We went with a chocolate brown and baby blue color scheme with a little baseball themed shelf....for daddy. We can't wait to bring him home and play with him in his room. Thank you to Cooper's Susu who helped sew extended ties on the bedding and to Ms. Molly for painting Cooper's letters and canvas. We just love it!!

First weekly exam

2008-08-15T11:46:00.000-07:00

I went for my first check today and nothing is happening. No dilating...no anything. I know Cooper is going to make us wait until the last possible moment. We had a scare Wednesday night and went to the hospital because I was experiencing double and blurred vision. I thought something was going on with my blood pressure. All was well in that area so we think it was now some optic neuritis associated with MS. Luckily it subsided and they let me come home. I threw our bags in the car but thank goodness it was a false alarm because I forgot about a half dozen things. And, we didn't have our car seat installed. We just went today and bought a video camera for the big day. So now all that is left it to meet our pediatrician and I have to wash a few last things. Mimi isn't coming in for 8 more days so surely he will hold off until then. September 4th is booked and ready for the C-Section just in case we go the full distance.

35 weeks.....

2008-08-03T22:04:00.000-07:00

Well, we are on the countdown to your arrival. I am dreaming of you almost every night and can't wait to hold you in my arms. Daddy put your bassinette together today. Wheww!! That wasn't easy. We are learning about patience when it comes to putting all of your stuff together. Sometimes I just sit in your room and think of you. We went to an 8 hour birthing class on Saturday and learned more than anyone should know about how babies come into this world...:) I am getting nervous about the C- Section but I know God has His hands around your delivery and my health during and afterwards. Son, I love you.

Oh how I love thee let me count the ways..........

2008-07-16T15:48:00.000-07:00

Cooper, you are mommy's special little boy. I can't wait to hold you close and snuggle you day and night. You are our dream come true. Every day I think about you and how I am the luckiest mommy in the world. I feel honored that I have been chosen to be your mommy. Time is going by slowly, but I am trying to be patient. I pray that you are healthy and happy. I wonder who you are going to look like and what you will be when you grow up. See you soon my little buddy.

Love,
Mommy

Mimi is coming..Mimi is coming!!

2008-07-16T15:39:00.000-07:00

How excited am I that Mimi is coming into town for your shower. Yippee!! What a surprise! She is driving on a bus all night to get here for your special day. We love you Mimi!! We can't wait to see you.

Love,
Cooper and Mommy

Mom, why can't I come in here???

2008-07-12T12:27:00.000-07:00

We are trying to get Hunter used to the fact that he can't come in the nursery. Well, since the nursery has French doors on it, he is always peering in wondering why he can't get in there. It breaks my heart. He just makes me feel so guilty..welcome to Parenthood.

4D Ultrasound....no pictures because he was turned the wrong way

2008-07-07T11:12:00.001-07:00

Well, a lesson in patience is a good thing to learn for motherhood. We went for our 4 D ultrasound and Cooper had a mind of his own. He was turned the wrong way so the technician decided to zap him with some vibration/sound to get him to turn to the front. That mad him really mad and he turned completely to the back and wouldn't move again. Oh well. Now we have to wait until September to see his sweet face. That actually makes me excited because now we have no preconceived notions of what he looks like and will be completely surprised. We are just thankful for a healthy baby!!

You gave mommy and daddy a scare.....

2008-07-03T19:17:00.000-07:00

I went to the doctor this morning and mentioned that I hadn't felt you moving very much. They hooked me up for a 20 minute stress test. You started out good around 150 to 160 beats per minute but then dropped down to the 130's and even 120's for awhile. The doctor was a little concerned so I was sent for an ultrasound to check for low fluid or a knot in the umbilical cord. Everything checked out fine. You have plenty of fluid and your heart was beating strong. They estimated your weight at a whopping 3 pounds 10 ounces already. That made mommy and daddy feel so happy that you appear to be growing strong and healthy. We can't wait to see you Monday in the 4D ultrasound. We love you sweet boy.

Daddy is painting the nursery this weekend

2008-06-27T05:32:00.001-07:00

We have emptied the room that will be the nursery and chosen the paint color....baby blue. Now, it seems more real that a baby boy is on the way. I can't wait to get the crib set up so I can sit in there and dream about Cooper. The doctor called and had to postpone our 4D ultrasound which was disappointing. It has been moved from July 3rd to July 7th. The best birthday present of all times will be to see your sweet face. Mimi is here visiting and she is getting very excited about meeting you. Only 10 weeks to go...We love you son and are praying for you every day.

87 DAYS AND COUNTING....

2008-06-12T10:33:00.001-07:00

We feel so blessed...

2008-06-12T08:41:00.000-07:00

Cooper is our miracle baby. He was conceived after much prayer and fertility treatments. I still pinch myself when I feel him move because I can't believe we are actually going to have a baby. He is due on Josh's moms birthday who passed away last year unexpectedly at 62.

Almost in the third trimester

2008-06-12T08:04:00.001-07:00

Can you believe it? Monday I will be officially in the third and final trimester. No, time hasn't flown by but rather crept especially now that I am home for the summer and must stay inside due to this extreme heat. I am working on Cooper's scrapbook, closet and praying for him every day. We can't wait to hold our little man and snuggle him close. His grandparents Mimi, Susu and Papa are eagerly awaiting his arrival also.

Hunter..Divi...Izzy..

2008-06-11T20:44:00.000-07:00

Why Martin Menagerie? Well, that is the joke around our house because we have so many animals. We have two calico cats named Divi and Izzy and a yellow lab named Hunter. They were our first babies before Cooper came along. They are all in for a huge shock when they get knocked down a notch when Cooper arrives. We are tearing down Hunter's crate this weekend because his room/my office is being converted into the nursery.

2008-06-11T20:39:00.001-07:00

My first entry on the blog. I am trying to figure out this whole blogging thing before Cooper comes. We want our out of town family to be able to see his growth, progress and milestones. We are on the countdown to his arrival...less than 90 days to go before he makes his grand entrance. His daddy and I are trying to get his nursery complete but we are waiting on his furniture to arrive.