A Celebration of Life

"A baby will make love stronger, days shorter, nights longer, bankroll smaller, home happier, clothes shabbier, the past forgotten and the future worth living for." - Unknown

This month my family suffered a shocking and unexpected loss when my Uncle Dan passed away at the young age of 58. He was a kind, tall man with a booming voice, a deep laugh, a big personality and a love for Hawaiian shirts. He was an amazing son, older brother, husband, uncle and father. His passing leaves me speechless and there is a hole in my heart for my family in California. My parents flew out last week to be with my aunt, cousin and grandparents. Please keep them all in your thoughts and prayers.

In my Uncle Dan's honor this post will be a celebration of life. Life is precious, every day is another gift from God to hold those you love and say "I love you." Our little ones show us this everyday.

Rory turned 4 months old on December 3rd and we feel like she grows and changes daily. I took her to get her ears pierced on November 15th. She didn't cry very much when the first one was pierced but she was quite angry when the second earring went in. As soon as she saw herself in the mirror though, she stopped crying and gave me the biggest smile.

At 4 months old, our sweet Aurora is 16 pounds 13.5 ounces (90-95%) and 26 inches long (95-98%)! 

She is rolling from front to back and back to front.

Grabbing at everything and trying to put it in her mouth.

Rory giggles all the time (especially at Van).

Fits into size 9 months clothes - I feel like I am constantly having to buy her clothes and can't keep up with her growth spurts.

She's eating two tablespoons of oatmeal every night and loves it. 

Dr. Cross said Rory is very strong. She has been trying to sit up on her own and loves to stand.

Enjoys time playing in her exersaucer.

Her little legs can be found straight up in the air if she is lying on her back. She uses them to spin in a circle when lying on the floor.

We're still in the bassinet but quickly outgrowing it.

Wearing a size 3 diaper.

Has not had a bottle in over a month which means she and I are always together!!!

Nurses about every 2.5-3 hours.

Goes to bed around 10/11pm after a little 30 minute catnap at 8.

Sleeps so well at night even though she still gets up twice to nurse. 

Never cries at night, just makes little sounds letting me know she is awake and ready to eat.

Loves to snuggle. 

Is obsessed with Van and he is with her.

I am so in love with these two!

She literally laughs at everything Van says and does!

This month has been keeping us busy, getting ready for Jesus' birthday and celebrating Van's 3rd birthday! Derek and I even managed a night out with Josh!

Dinner at Dandelion

TROUBLE!

Building a gingerbread house with Nana

Decorating his own Christmas tree with the help of Baxter

Rory's 4 month photoshoot:

trying to get the camera setup and no one wanted to cooperate

there's a smile!

Baby's 1st Christmas

hey, that bear stole my sticker!

Rory we are so blessed with your life. You bring such happiness into our family. We celebrate your little life and give thanks to God for creating you perfectly. We love you to the moon and back baby girl.