3 Great Ultrasounds in a Row

Today we got the third straight positive ultrasound in a row. The last time that happened, we were pregnant with Miss Mia. After 9 miscarriages, it's hard to be excited, but we are far more hopeful than we've ever been. Jesusa (our "miracle child") measured 7 weeks, 5 days and had a heart rate of 170. I consistently feel horrible, nauseated and constipated, for all of which I am very grateful. It's reassuring since I had all that with Mia as well. We will keep praying that all goes well, but I feel very blessed.

4th Birthday Photos

The best smile in the whole world

Each night, after we read our books, Mia falls asleep with a smile on her face. Sometimes she has her arms wrapped around my neck. Sometimes she rests her head against my shoulder. Sometimes I'm snuggled up behind her with my arms wrapped around her. Regardless, right before she falls asleep, she opens her eyes, looks at me, and smiles. Each night, I'm overwhelmed by my love for her and overcome with joy at the love she obviously feels for me.

I realize her smile comes from comfort and security of having her mommy snuggling with her, but that smile also means something much more significant to me. Each night I'm reminded how fortunate I am to be able to provide my daughter a life where she's happy every night. It often makes me think of the millions of children around the world who don't smile as they drift off to sleep each night. I think of the children who are ill or dying. I think of those who are abused or neglected. I think of those who are homeless or hungry, or those who live amidst war or terror. I think of how their mothers must feel as their babies drift off to sleep at night. How scared they must be for their children and how they must pray desperately that their children find a way to safety, security and happiness in their lifetimes.

So each night I thank God with all my heart that my daughter knows no illness, abuse, hunger or terror, and I pray that no matter where she is each night for the rest of her life, she will always fall asleep with that sweet, happy smile on her face.

Happy Birthday Grumpy!

For Bruce's birthday we had family photos made, then we went to brunch and the zoo. We had a great time and the girls were absolutely worn out afterward. So were the grown-ups, for that matter!

Gymnastics

Mia started gymnastics class two weeks ago. She absolutely loves it! She goes to the same place as Cara but they go on different days. I think it's great for her to interact with new kids that she doesn't know from school or that are family/friends. She has adapted very quickly and loves jumping on the trampoline, swinging from the trapeze and walking on the balance beam. I can't wait to see what she learns next!

Mommy/Daughter Tea Party

Mia and I went to a princess tea party with Margo and Macee and Stacy and Emmerson. The girls got to select princess gowns; get their nails, makeup and hair done; learn how to drink tea like princesses; do a fashion show; and play games. Mia was in heaven!

At the zoo with Macee

Mia went to the zoo with Macee. The girls loved the animals but had an especially great time at the water park. They also went on the 4D Sponge Bob ride with their daddies, but the seats moved and it freaked Mia out. She cried and they had to stop the ride so she could get off. Afterward we hung out at Macee's house where the girls snuggled up together to watch The Grinch. It was a fun day!