Our BIG Miracle

A little over 2 weeks ago on July 12th at 10:31pm,  Connor Brent was born weighing 10lbs and about 22 inches long.  The hospital measured him at 22 3/4 inches and the doctor's office measured him at 21 1/2 inches long.  So we will just say about 22inches. :)

We feel extremely grateful that he made it here safely.  I went to the hospital at 9am on the 12th to be induced.  It was a very slow process because Connor would not drop.  It took me all day and into the night to get to a 10 and ready to deliver.  The nurses did not feel comfortable breaking my water because Connor had still not dropped and they worried about the cord coming out first.  So around 10pm my doctor made it to the hospital and broke my water.    Soon after, he discovered that Connor was in the posterior position (face up) and that was why he wouldn't drop.  After several attempts the doctor was able to turn him, but not without Connor's heart rate dropping.  I could see the look of concern on my doctor's face as he said to the nurse to get the operating room ready.  Luckily I was able to avoid the operating room.

After he was finally turned, it was time to push and it was probably one of the hardest things I have ever had to do.  I was so grateful for the epidural.  Connor's shoulder got stuck and then they had to use the vacuum to help get him out.  When he finally made it out he wasn't breathing and they rushed to give him oxygen.  The oxygen did its job and I finally heard my baby's cry.  The best sound ever and my own tears starting coming.

I could feel the many prayers on mine and Connor's behalf that he would make it here safely.  I am so grateful to have this sweet miracle here and part of our family.

                                            Holding Connor for the first time.

                                                   Daddy's turn.

                                                 Katelyn's turn.

                                Luke's turn.  He kept saying, "I can't believe I have a brother."

                                             Ashley's turn.

                                                 First family pic of all 6 of us.

                             Even though he is big, he still looks little in his daddy's arms.

                                                       Ready to go home.

                                            We are so in love with this sweet baby boy!

Kindergarten Graduation

 Katelyn had a great kindergarten year and was so excited for graduation!  They sang some cute songs and received their "diplomas".  Katelyn really got into the singing, as I knew she would, and even got a little frustrated with the boy in front of her because he was singing so loud.  That's my Katelyn! 

She also had a special part where she talked in the microphone and invited the audience to sing the National Anthem with her class.

Mrs. Barton was a great teacher!

 We are proud of our kindergarten graduate and know she is ready for 1st grade!

4 Years Old!

Ashley turned 4 on April 3rd!  She was so excited because this would be her first friend party.  She talked about it for months.  She really wanted to have a princess party, but wanted to invite the boys from her preschool class.  So we decided on a Royal Party with Princesses & Princes or Knights (whatever the boys decided) :) .

 First thing in the morning she put on her birthday hat from preschool complete with awesome bedhead.

 

I found a great deal to rent a bounce house for 3 hours.  This was the main entertainment, but I was surprised at how many were a little timid to jump.  Most of them warmed up to the idea after a little time.

  

The kids decorated their own crowns or tiaras.

 

Then we went on a treasure hunt where they found candy and a wand or sword at the end.

Ashley was sure spoiled with all the presents.  

 Found this cake idea for a castle on the internet and had to give it a try.  Ashley loved it! My mom was still here after watching the kids while Kevin & I were in San Francisco.  She was tons of help and actually did most of the frosting and decorating of the cake.

 Our traditional birthday picture if front of the birthday sign.

 Our 4 year old girl!

Four things about Ashley:

1. She loves to sing and dance.  Most of the songs she sings are her originals.

2. She is sassy as can be and gives her dad a run for his money when he teases her.

3. She loves to color and draw.

4. She LOVED preschool and wishes that there wasn't such a thing as summer vacation.


We love our Ashley and her zest for life!