September 25 - 3 weeks old

Oh my goodness, time is flying. Our pretty girl is getting bigger every day and it's already been three weeks. From the moment we got to the hospital for her birth, time has yet to slow down.

She is a bundle of joy (most of the time). Like any baby, she cries and mommy is getting used to that. I am also trying to figure out the differences between her cries. It can be frustrating for us, but I know it is equally hard on Brooke. While we are trying to adjust to life as parents and figure out her needs, she is getting used to life outside of the womb. Knowing that it will not always be this hard is motivating!

What's new in the life of Brooke?
She has learned to grab a very tight hold of mommy's hair. She hates having her diaper changed; absolutely hates it! Most of her headbands are still too big, even though the doctor said she had a "big" head at birth. Some of her newborn clothes are already too small on her. However, she is still in newborn diapers. She does not like her bassinet, but she loves her swing. She is enjoying her new Baby Bjorn Bouncer too! She seems to have outgrown being swaddled. She is eating (on average) about 3-4 ounces every 3 hours, but her schedule is very inconsistent at this point. She has been getting more gassy lately, but gas drops and back rubs seem to be helping. Some of her nicknames include pretty girl, peanut, baby, booger and boogie woogie (one of daddy's names for her).

I am enjoying the practice on my photography skills. I have the perfect little model, event though she is not always in the mood for it. She was pretty fussy the other day, but I did manage to get a couple good ones. She is the definition of perfection. I love her to pieces!

My heart melts when she looks up at me while she is eating. At this point, her eyes are learning to focus more; she can see about 15-18 inches away, which just so happens to be about the distance from her face to mine, while I'm holding her. They say a baby already knows her mother, by her voice and scent. Now she is getting to recognize my face! I love when I pick her up and her arms swing around my neck. It may not be "intentional" but it's like she is giving me a great big hug! I love my little angel.

September 18 - 2 weeks old

I never would have imagined missing being pregnant, but surprisingly enough I sometimes miss that baby kicking inside my tummy. Although nothing beats holding her in my arms and being able to kiss those little cheeks!

The past ten months flew by, from the moment we found out we were expecting to the day our baby girl was born. And now it has been two weeks since her debut. Time really needs to slow down. I am already 1/4 of the way thru my maternity leave...

Brooke had a very busy day on Sunday. First, Grumpy stopped by, followed by a visit from Mamaw, Papaw, cousins Alex and Cameron. They brought kolaches from our favorite place in Deer Park, chicken & dumplings, lasagna and a gift from Kathy's friend (more clothes). Later Mallory came over for Brooke's newborn photos, as well as a visit from Michael's cousin, Philip and his wife, Carrie. It was not very good timing for us, but they didn't mind. Carrie is almost 3 months pregnant and so excited to see "behind the scenes". Here are a few pictures from the photo shoot. We are so happy with how they turned out; thank you to our personal photographer, Mallory!

I am such a proud mommy. Just look at that little angel. I could just eat her up! 

On another note, she is not on a schedule yet, as much as her parents have tried. She eats about 3 ounces every 3 hours, but sometimes little miss has her own agenda and decides that she is hungry after only an hour of feeding. Her doctor confirmed that this is all normal for our growing girl. So mommy is trying to get used to being tired all the time and tries to get a nap in between cleaning bottles and changing diapers. Daddy has been super helpful when he gets home from work. He fixes us dinner and is able to help feed Brooke (after I pump), which gives mommy a little break. He also gets up during the night to help with one of her feedings. Mommy really appreciates that!!!

At today's doctor's appointment, our baby girl measured 21 inches and 8 pounds, 13 ounces. She's gained a whole pound since her last appointment, which means she's up about 9 ounces from her birth weight. Doctor is very proud of her! After her checkup, she had to go to the lab to have her little foot pricked. As if that wasn't bad enough, they had to prick her heel twice, since the blood wasn't flowing good the first time. Brooke was screaming at the top of her lungs and mommy was on the verge of tears, but it was only a matter of minutes until it was over. 

Tomorrow I go to see my doctor to see how I am doing post c-section. I am definitely moving around much better than I was last week, but still not 100%. I know it takes time, and I am trying to take it easy, as much as a new mommy can. 

Our little family is enjoying our time together and learning new things about each other everyday. We appreciate the continued love and prayers.

September 11 - One week old

Here are a few pictures to sum up the first week of our sweet baby's life.

Prepping for surgery, one hour before scheduled c-section

Wednesday, September 4th at 7:55 am, Dr. Kelly McCullagh delivered Brooke Leigh Taylor at 39 weeks 6 days, weighing in 8 pounds 4 ounces, 19 1/2 inches long

Only minutes old

Everyone patiently waiting for a peak at Daddy bringing Brooke into the nursery

Brooke with her mommy, in our post-partum room

My "push present" from Michael,
Bracelet with "Mother's Love" charm and September birthstone ring

Gigi (Great Grandmere) holding Brooke for the first time

I couldn't be more in love

Grateful for all the presents we received from visitors

Perfection

Grammy & Grumpy

Post-partum room at Memorial Hermann Katy

Daddy napping

So happy to finally hold our baby in my arms

Kisses for my angel

Proud Auntie Jen

Brooke & Mamaw

Our first family photo

Our hearts are filled with so much joy

Enjoying our blessing from above

Getting ready for Brooke's first car ride,
leaving the hospital on September 7th

Brooke's first bath

 

Just getting around to lunch at 3:30 pm,
milk for baby and pizza for mommy

Headband and blanket handmade by Grammy

Before Brooke's 1 week doctor's appointment, September 10th

First attempt at "Tummy Time"

1 week old, 7 lbs 13 ounces, September 11th

The past 7 days have flown by. It is the hardest job I have ever had, but without a doubt the most rewarding thing I have done in my entire life. No book, blog or experienced mother can prepare you for motherhood. However, with each passing day, we learn a little bit more about our baby girl and parenting. She is slowly getting on a schedule and that is making our job a little easier. 

Brooke is an angel that God sent to our family. We are so in love with our little bundle of joy. Thank you all for the prayers, love and support. We could not have gotten this far without it.

September 7 - Heading Home

The days in the hospital went by faster than we thought. We had a few visitors, but not too many as we wanted those first few days to spend time bonding as a family. However, a special thank you to Grammy, Grumpy, Mamaw, Papaw, Gigi, Great Ga, Great Pa, Aunt Jen, Uncle Mike, Bill, Milly, Mallory, Chelsea, Grayson, Jen and Janet for coming to visit us. Our sweet little baby did a lot of sleeping, but that didn't stop anyone from wanting to see her.

We practiced nursing, changing diapers, burping, sleeping...and lots of loving! It was the beginning of a very long, learning experience. Already there are things that we said we weren't going to do, but with parenting we have learned you have to be flexible. As her weight dropped after birth, we had to supplement with some formula. We also have learned to appreciate pacifiers, another thing we did not plan on using. A couple trips to the nursery during the night gave mommy and daddy a couple hours of rest. Nonetheless, we are enjoying every minute with this precious baby.

Brooke's first dirty diaper

Finally it was Saturday, 3 days after my c-section, and we were going to be discharged. The hospital has signs everywhere saying be ready for discharge at noon. My doctor came in bright and early to discharge me, but we still had to wait for the pediatrician on-call to discharge the baby, since our pediatrician does not visit the hospital we delivered at. My mom and Kathy both arrived early to help us get ready to go home, and next thing you know it was after 3 pm. Finally the nurse came in to tell us that the doctor was caught up at another hospital and we could leave without seeing him, as he reviewed everything and she is fine up until this point. While it was relieving to get discharged, it was frustrating that we could have left hours prior if they had realized this sooner. 

We got Brooke dressed in her personalized onesie (thanks auntie) and in her carseat. Mom, Dad, Brooke, Grammy and Mamaw were heading home!

September 4 - Brooke's Birthday

The day we have been waiting for was finally here. I was up bright and early at 4 am to get ready for Brooke's Birthday! I got showered as Michael packed up the car with our bags. We were on the road and luckily only had a couple miles to go to the hospital where we were delivering, Memorial Hermann Katy. My mom met us and we took the elevator up to Labor & Delivery. My mom couldn't follow us back so we gave her our stuff and headed to pre-op. After signing a few forms, Michael got into his scrubs and I got changed into my gown. They hooked me up to an IV and started pumping me with fluids. At this point, things finally started to slow down for the first time all morning and I realized that within an hour I would have a baby. I was filled with emotions! It was an indescribably emotion of impatience and excitement. Next thing you know the doctor came in; it was time. I gave Michael one last kiss and I walked across the hall to surgery.

I was scared to get the anesthesia, and the nurse knew it. I was shaking like a leaf. They laid me back on the table and within a few moments my legs felt heavy, warm and tingly. I started to feel extreme nausea and just knew I was going to be sick. The nurse put a bag next to me face, but it never happened since they gave me more meds for it. It wasn't long that they threw up the sheet and everything was ready to start. Michael came in with the camera and sat right by my side. After 22 minutes, Brooke was pulled out and I saw my precious baby for the first time. That was the most amazing feeling in the world! The first thing the doctor said was that she had "the size head of a 10 pound baby" and that was the reason she was never engaged.

Michael took a few pictures and they brought Brooke to the side of the room. The doctor kept offering for Michael to go see her, but he didn't want to leave my side. Finally, he gave in and went over to take a few pictures. Then, he accompanied the nurse to the nursery to bathe our baby and get her measurements. Meanwhile, the doctor was stitching me back up. Then, they got a call and told me Brooke weighed in at 8 pounds 4 ounces and 19 1/2 inches long...our perfect bundle of joy!

The next hour or so went by pretty fast and was pretty foggy as they moved me back to a hospital bed and wheeled me back to the recovery room. Michael was already waiting for me. Due to all the fluids being pumped in my body, I couldn't stop shivering. It was very uncomfortable and I still couldn't move my toes. I think I may have dozed off for awhile. Next thing I know the nurse came in with a "present"...Brooke! I nursed our sweet little angel and it went perfect! After that we were off to my post-partum room.

Our family came in and saw the three of us and gave their congratulations. It was only about 10 am at this point, but it had already been such a long day. Everything was still so surreal. On top of all the feelings and commotion with nurses and visitors, one thing was for sure, Michael and I were parents! Our sweet little daughter was born at 7:55 am on Wednesday, September 4, 2013. I couldn't be more proud of that beautiful little girl.

A special thank you to my best friend, Mallory for taking pictures for us. Check them out on her blog, Mallory's Happiest Things.

September 3 - Love & Support

Over the last 10 months, we have received so much love and support. I do not think I would have made it this far without it. The following people made a special impact on me during the pregnancy:

Michael. He is my rock. I can be a little jumpy, emotional and overly organized at times. He helps us keep sanity and balance in our relationship, as he is very calm and rational. We both know I was slightly hormonal in the beginning of my pregnancy, but that was nothing that he couldn't handle because of his love for me and his daughter. He knew when to provide words of encouragement...and when to keep his mouth shut! He supported all of the decisions I made, as we kept open communication about everything. He has worked harder than ever before, getting ready to become a family of 3. He loves my family as if they were his own. His relationship with God has also grown stronger, which makes my heart melt, as we hope and pray that our daughter has strong faith as well. I could not imagine going down this road with anyone other than Michael. 

My mother. She has always been nothing less than loving and supportive of every decision I have ever made. Well...I suppose there are a few that she may not have been too fond of. However, she knew that the lessons learned were far greater than the damage done. Her faith in me and trust in God made me the woman I am today. I will never forget the day I told her I was pregnant. We were sitting on my couch as I broke the news to her and we just hugged and cried - tears of joy, excitement, nervousness and the unknown. She immediately made it understood that she would be called Grammy! And since then, she has been my side every step of the way. She accompanied me to doctor's appointments when Michael couldn't take off of work, came over to the apartment to help me clean once I got to big to move and lift stuff, opened up "The Factory" in their dining room to sew Brooke all sorts of clothes, bloomers, blankets and more, called me in the mornings to make sure I made it through the night okay, loves Michael as if he were her own son and it never fails that she offers us food!! The only thing better than having her as a mother is knowing she will be the grandmother (Grammy) to our daughter!

My sister. Jen and I have always had our moments, and unfortunately when I first found out I was pregnant we were childishly fighting over something so silly that I don't even remember. However, once we got together and I told her our life-changing news, she was (literally) jumping up and down! I remember her saying that she would never forget that date, as that was the day she found out she would be an aunt! She has already spoiled our baby more than anyone could imagine. Other than a plant and teddy bear my parents got us after our first doctor's appointment, Jen got bought our baby her first two toys. This was before we knew a name, much less if it was a boy or girl. And of course, there were more goodies that she gave us at the Gender Reveal Party, followed by the most amazing baby shower that she hosted with my aunt/Godmother and cousin. Everything was perfect! She has made so many friends on Etsy placing personalized orders for our precious Brooke. The monogrammed burp cloths, gowns, onesies, holiday dresses, aunt/uncle onesies and shoes are just a few of the things that now fill her closet. Other than spoiling our daughter to the extremes, she has spoiled me as well. She bought me a new dress when I was only halfway through my pregnancy, which I never though I would fit into...but it looked great on me when I wore it to celebrate her birthday 3 months later. She came running over to the apartment the day I was having bad back pains, thinking that was the beginning of labor, to bring me Chick-fil-a, as my "last meal". She answers everyone of my phone calls "Did your water break?" At 39 weeks pregnant, she took me to get a manicure and gave me a heart pendant signifying a Mother's Love, as I approached Brooke's due date. She has been a huge support to me during this not-so-easy process, never judging me for my crazy emotions. I think she enjoys hearing the stories that come along with pregnancy. She always kept me laughing, even when there were times I was tired and in pain. She has added to the excitement of this journey and it's comforting to know that she will always be there for her niece...and Goddaughter!

Mallory. She is my bestest friend and never fails to be there when I need her. She was the one who went with me to get the blood work done to confirm our positive pregnancy test. She was there to listen to me cry and vent about the unexpected ups and downs of pregnancy. She took pictures of Michael and I for our pregnancy announcements, at our Gender Reveal Party and maternity photos. She has also agreed to take pictures of us at the hospital on the day of her birth and newborn photos once we are back at home. She hosted a beautiful shower with her mother and two of my other best friends. She has used her crafting skills to personalize numerous onesies and decorations for some of the events over the last 9 months. She calls on me almost every day to make sure that I am doing well and to tell her the latest news with Brooke and the pregnancy. God knew what he was doing when he put her in my life. I never knew that when we became friends in 6th grade that our friendship would end up turning into something so awesome. I couldn't imagine going through any of this without her! 

My dad. He has always been so protective of me, as I am his baby girl. He always worried about me, as I am an adventurous, opinionated and stubborn individual. I never understood why he would give me such a hard time growing up...until now. Having a daughter causes this involuntary urge to look after her every move. You don't want to see them get hurt or fail or make any of the mistakes you once made. I know now that he only had my best interest at heart and that is why he was always so protective of me. It was out of love for his daughter. So when he first found out I was pregnant, his reaction was one of surprise and concern. However, it didn't take him long to realize that even though it was not the way any of us imagined it happening, this was a miracle. And most importantly, he was going to be a grandfather! It only took him a short while to remember how amazing it was to have a baby and know that Michael and I were going to be great parents. He has showered Michael with so much love and respect. And I never thought I would ever be with someone like my dad, and I would never say Michael is a spinning image of Ed...but every once in awhile Michael will do something that reminds me of no one other than my Dad! He is a hard man to understand, but his love for his first grandchild grows more and more each day. We can't wait for Brooke to meet her Grumpy/Godfather!

Michael's parents. For the past five years, I have built a wonderful relationship with both Kathy and John. They are experienced grandparents and it is a joy to watch them with David's children, Cameron and Alex. They have shown tremendous love for those two kids and I know how excited they are to have a grandbaby added to the mix. Kathy attended both of my showers and it was great to introduce her to some of my family and friends for the first time. My family just adores her (and John too)! We received the sweetest blanket and Brooke's first fishing rod, among other wonderful gifts. They are two of the most gentle, humble and caring people I know. They would do anything for family, or anyone for that matter. They have always treated me as part of their family, and I feel blessed to be starting my own family with their son. I am so happy that Brooke will have Mamaw and Papaw in her life!

My Godparents. My uncle Bill and Aunt Milly have always been a special part of my life, from my baptism to my confirmation to me graduating college and now the birth of my first child. They have always been close to my family and shown me nothing but love and support since I was a baby. Milly hosted my first shower (along with her daughter and my sister). I know how much work she put into it, and it showed. Everything was perfect, all the way down to the decoration in the bathroom! I am so lucky that my parents chose them for my Godparents 28 years ago. They have been a blessing to me...and even Michael (and Brooke). Michael instantly fell in love with their genuine personalities and kind-spirits the moment he met them. They treated him like part of our family and he has always expressed his love and appreciation for them. I am happy that Brooke has their love and support; it means so much to our family!

God. Without my faith, I surely wouldn't have made it this far! God blessed me with this miracle and trusted that I could help him create this beautiful child to bring into the world. I am eternally grateful that he wanted me to be a mother and for Michael to be a father. We already feel so blessed to call Brooke our daughter and cannot wait to hold her in our arms. I have been fortunate enough to have a family friend and priest bless me twice during our pregnancy. He has brought comfort to us and renewed our strength. We look forward to baptizing Brooke in the Catholic Church and praying for her relationship with God to blossom throughout her life. There were days during my pregnancy I was not sure how I would make it due to the physical and emotional stress that is endured. However, through prayer God reassured me that everything would be okay. I am so fortunate to have my faith, because it is one of the most important things that got me through the last 10 months.

There are plenty of other family members, friends, coworkers and even strangers that have shown their support along the way. From my boss allowing me to work from home when I was feeling achy to conversations with strangers in the elevator, so many people have shared their stories, advice, opinions, love, support, prayers and more! Michael and I are overwhelmed. The emotions we have both experienced are indescribable. We are beyond lucky to have so many amazing people in our lives. We look forward to what the future holds for our family.

As we are down to the final 12 hours before Brooke's birth, I just want to take one last minute to thank everyone...for everything. We honestly could not have gotten through this without you all. Brooke is already surrounded by so much love and we cannot wait for her to enter this world tomorrow and meet everyone!

Thank you again, and God bless!

With love,
Jaime, Michael & Brooke

September 2 - "No labor" Labor Day

Well, some of the family had their bets placed on today for Brooke's birthday...and they were wrong. Our little girl is just taking her sweet time. However, it may come as a surprise to her that in just a couple of days she is getting evicted! She is getting too big and her parents are ready for her to be here!

Today Michael and I started the day with donuts and kolaches. Then Jen came over to see my new car and take me to get a manicure. What a great sister - I've gotten my nails done the past two weekends so they would look pretty in pictures at the hospital but the baby hasn't come yet. So she said this week was her treat! After nails, we went to Katy Mills Mall to buy her one last outfit before her arrival (9 month dress; no longer buying 3 or 6 months clothes). We came back home and Jen pulled out a box and said she had a gift for me...not Brooke. It was a heart pendant from James Avery - the Mother's Love symbol. I have the ring, as it was a gift from my mother years ago. Now I am receiving the Mother's Love necklace for me being a mother, not a daughter! 

Being a mother means you worry, give, teach, nurture and more than you ever thought possible. It also means that your life is rich beyond measure. Through all the trials and tribulations of growing up, somehow children manage to reach adulthood. Children move in and out of your life so quickly, it seems, but one place they stay forever is in your heart.

Speaking of mothers, my friend Tasha's son Riley is now 4 months old. I cannot believe it! It seems like just yesterday I was visiting her in the hospital after his birth. They came over to spend a couple hours at the pool with me. Riley loved the water! He such a good boy, chubby as can be and I love him to death! 

After the pool, Michael and I got ready and headed to my parents' house for barbecue. Bill & Milly, Pa & Ga and Jen & Mike were also going to be there. Milly and Bill had a little present for us! She gave us some swaddles blankets, burpy bib, bunny rattle and a monthly calendar for your new baby. They are so sweet and the best Godparents anyone could ask for. Brooke is blessed to have them in her life as well. Everyone is so excited to meet Brooke on Wednesday, especially her parents!

Michael and I watched a movie before going to bed. It was a busy, yet relaxing Labor Day...with no labor.