The Bailes Family

What we've been up to...

2011-05-08T22:02:00.000-04:00

going on walks

opening and closing car doors

waking up from naps

drinking from sippy cups

walking with walking toys

eating spaghetti

taking lots of baths

reading lots of books

learning to drive daddy's truck

pushing baby strollers

hanging out in bubba's crate

rolling in the grass

chillin' with momma

saying "mooooo"

laughing and grinning

pushing my car

smiling my big cheesy grin

laying back

taking off!

Grady can now say approximately 15 or 20 words. Can do the itsy bitsy spider...and tries oh so hard to sing it too. It's seriously the cutest thing I've ever seen or heard. He knows what the cow says and what the bear says. He's practically running after learning how to walk a couple of weeks ago. He's still a little stiff legged but is picking it fast.

He loves giving hugs and kisses... but be prepared...the kisses are wet! Only the best for the ones he loves! He still LOVES hayes, but only knows him as bubba. If we ask him where hayes is he just stares at us, but if you ask him where bubba is, he'll hunt him down!

Grady loves Elmo and affectionately calls him "Mo." He loves brushing his teeth...all by himself. We have an agreement...I brush them first and then he can do so on his own for as long as he wants. I think he likes to use the toothbrush as a teether. Speaking of teeth, he's got 12 and is working on his eye teeth now. He'll have a mouth full in the next couple of months. This also means that he can eat pretty much anything! His only problem is the amount that he can get in his mouth and still manage to chew.

Grady is still the most adorable little guy in the entire world. He lights up a building with this sweet smile. Has the voice of an angel when he sings and is so sweet to his momma and daddy. He loves to cuddle and just be in our laps. I hope that doesn't wear out anytime soon.

We love you Grady Bears. You make Mother's Day sooooo special.

Love, Momma

mmmm....broccoli

2011-03-16T22:55:00.000-04:00

Happy 1st Birthday Grady!!!

2011-03-16T22:41:00.000-04:00

On March 12, Grady turned 1 year old. He had a big time at his birthday party, throwing balls, playing with new toys, eating lots of cake and icecream.

He even ate his lunch and cake in one of his new toys...a wagon! He had an all around blast...and was whooped by the time we got home. He took a long nap only to wake up to more fun. Trace and Bella were in town with Mom and Mawmaw.

The great-grandmothers

enjoying his hamburger bun

singing "happy birthday"

mom, why have you held out on my for so long????

mmmm...icecream!

Taking it all in...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY BIG BOY! You are dearly loved by Momma and Daddy. We're so proud of you. Here's to the next year....and many, many more!

First Haircut

2011-03-13T22:17:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was Grady's first birthday! He woke up to Jon and I singing Happy Birthday. We filled his belly with waffles and blueberries and headed to the salon for the first real haircut. He did really well. He watched Elmo the whole time, so that helped a ton. I must say, he looks dashing!

pre-haircut with Daddy

the wings are about to be clipped!

Elmo's Song came in very handy for this experience.

Is this almost over????

The end result...adorable!

Birthday bash pictures to come soon!

Our Little Cowboy!

2011-02-14T20:44:00.000-05:00

Where O Where has the Time Gone?!?

2011-02-14T20:30:00.001-05:00

Almost two months have flown by since Christmas and I can't tell you anything super significant that has happened...other than our little man sprouting into a little boy rather than a baby! Why can't they still little longer?

Grady turned 11 months on Saturday and shows every bit of it! He's standing on his own and is very proud of himself when he does it. He hasn't taken that first step, but I think by the time 12 months rolls around he'll have at least attempted it. He's a doll. So sweet! He still loves giving Momma and Daddy kisses and hugs. He's become even more attached to Jon over the past couple of months. It's pretty amazing to watch him look for Jon's approval already. I just think it's cool that he already looks up to us.

Grady blows kisses, waves bye-bye, says momma, dadda, bubba, bye, hi, yes, fish and Gus. We're working on everyone else's names still...just give him some time! His favorite thing to do is read books. He'll choose a book over a toy about 8 times out of 10. His other favorite thing to do is open and close doors of all kinds. Big doors, little doors, cabinet doors, cozy coup door. He loves talking to himself in the mirror.

He's eating lots of new big boy foods (although mom and dad are more apprehensive than we probably should be!). He has a newfound love of bananas. He doesn't like them pureed or smashed, but bites...yes, please, and more, thank you! He loves raisin bread and peaches and pears. He still is just tolerating green beans, but that might be more to do with the cook than the bean. I can't figure out how to cook canned green beans until they're super tender. Suggestions welcome! He likes mashed taters (sweet and not) and mac n' cheese. He's just an all around big boy who has a big wonderful personality!

He loves to nap...mostly catches up on the weekends. He only takes one nap at school during the week, but takes two on Saturdays, sometime for a three hours each! He soaks up the sleepy on the weekends.

Having a meltdown at dinner

Getting ready for his first haircut

Daddy was the one who gave him his very first haircut...we just clipped his wings!

They could both stand/sit here for hours!

Trace giving Grady a push around in his new wheels!

G loves to push his car around the house...sometimes more than being inside!

another pastime...pulling all the books off the shelf

cuddle time after naptime

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-26T22:05:00.001-05:00

Hope everyone has had a good Christmas! We sure have!

Nine Months!

2010-12-12T20:59:00.000-05:00

Grady is 9 months old and acting every bit of it. He's all boy. He plays hard, and sleeps hard, loves being tossed in the air by Daddy, adores Hayes, our dog, and is always super excited when Daddy helps him ride Hayes' back.

He gets excited about the little things in life, like the refrigerator door opening, his red ball bouncing, getting his teeth brushed, reading about Thumper the bunny, empty water bottles, eating watermelon through a little mesh thingy for babies, taking baths, drinking water from the end of Momma's straw...or from Momma's water bottle. He bangs on his toys instead of gingerly playing, he turns them every which way to figure out how they work. It's awesome to watch him grow and learn. He's pulling up on everything and starting to cruise around a little.

Grady now has 6 teeth and won't stop drooling so I'm sure more are on their way. He's still a sweet, sweet boy and a true joy.

(A couple of notes on the pics included: #1 don't be jealous of our gorgeous orange burlap chairs...you'll have to find a set of your own! #2 Jon's eye is scary, yes. He took a finger to the eyeball last week playing basketball. Frightening as it may be, it looks about 1000 times better today than it did 10 days ago.)

Happy 9 months Grady Bear! Momma and Daddy love you little man!

The past month

2010-11-28T09:36:00.001-05:00

I've posted several pictures in the past couple of days, but I wanted to give a quick update on life.

On November 12, Grady turned 8 months old. Our little baby boy doesn't think he's a baby any more. Here are a few of his accomplishments:

-He attempts to walk right out of our arms these days...unsuccessfully, but still attempted.
-He's "for real" crawling. Not the army crawl anymore, he has arms and legs moving simultaneously, and it happened overnight.
-He goes from a belly position to sitting position with no effort at all.
-He's eating baby food like a champ, and even trying some crunchy food (baby puffs).
-He's basically refusing the bottle these days. I've got to find a sippy cup that he doesn't think is a teething toy. Right now he drinks very little from a cup, and just chews on it.
- Just this week he cut two more teeth, and two more are right behind them. He'll have his two front teeth for Christmas.
- He talks about his Dada all the time, and still will not say Momma. I think he's holding out on my so it's even more special when he finally does it.
-His hair is growing like crazy!
-I haven't weighed him since his last doc appt, but my guess is somewhere close to 20 lbs.
-He's pulling up on everything! If he's awake, I'm not resting. The kids does not stop moving. If he's in his highchair, he's there to eat. When that's over he's ready to get down and play again.
-He loves his cousins Bella and Trace. While we were in Atlanta for Thanksgiving, if they left the room he would yell after them, wanting them to come back in the room to play with him. He squealed with delight when he saw either of them coming his way. They were such good cousins, played with Grady and made him giggle all week long. I can't wait for Christmas with Jon's family. Gus and Grady are going to become big buddies.
-He is still so sweet. He loves playing with my hair and giving me kisses.
-He's got this new grin he's perfecting that is what I've deemed his cheeser. Big, wide and showing every tooth in his head!
-He's truly such a joy and blessing to our family.

Dear Grady,

I love you so much little buddy! You are so much fun right now. Your energy seems never ending, but you just like to run hard until you fall out. Just this morning I put you in your crib for a nap and you played and talked, and jumped and pulled up until you just couldn't go anymore. You lay down at the very end of your crib and fell asleep. I love you zest and freedom filled life. You are a busy little man. I pray that as you grow big, your energy is spent praising and honoring our God. Thank you for loving me so much. Your daddy and I were talking this week about how sweet you are at night when we're holding you. We both said that we love you so much it makes us want to cry. Thank you for loving us that way. You make our lives more full of all the good things!

We love you little sweet baby!

Momma

Adventures in Family Pics...

2010-11-28T09:05:00.001-05:00

My mom had one wish while we were in Atlanta for Thanksgiving...a picture of her and my dad - Grammy and Pop with all three grandkids. Well she got plenty of pictures...none are truly Christmas card worthy. Right about now, I wish I'd paid a little more attention to the product advertised in the commercial where the mom wants a good picture for her Christmas card. She ends up cropping and pasting alot. I remember the commercial well, but the product escapes me. Anyway..the last two pics are the best it got. I happen to think they're all pretty wonderful in all the respects that matter.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone. I hope the time you spent with your family was as joyful, and full of life as ours was!

"Enter his gates with thanksgiving,

and his courts with praise!

Give thanks to him; bless his name!

For the LORD is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations."

Psalm 100:4-5

Places to go...People to see!

2010-11-26T12:08:00.000-05:00

Reading, Bathing, Playing

2010-11-26T11:51:00.000-05:00

Halloween

2010-11-26T11:45:00.000-05:00

Family Reunion

2010-10-18T22:29:00.000-04:00

Grady and Cole

Grady's first swing ride

Trace and Bella

Grady and Grady

2010-10-18T22:21:00.000-04:00

Grady and I flew to Mississippi this past weekend for a family reunion for my mom's side of the family. On our way through Hattiesburg, we stopped and visited with my Papaw Parker who Grady is named after. It was the first time they met each other and was such a special time with him. Papaw held Grady practically the entire time and Grady loved it!

7 months!!!

2010-10-12T21:28:00.000-04:00

Just look at him! He's getting so big and going anywhere he wants. He's not truly crawling, but that doesn't hold him back one bit. We're in serious need of baby-proofing. He's so much fun. He's talking up a storm, which isn't different from any other month of his life, but he's definitely making more sounds, both consonant and vowel sounds.

Last month Grady got his shots and ran a low grade fever for a couple of days, so he got to stay at home with Daddy. Since then, he totally adores his daddy. He thinks he's hilarious. I know this is going to sound crazy, but I think Grady already looks to both of us for approval, especially Jon. If Grady does something he thinks is cool or funny, he looks up to see if Jon or I are looking and if we saw what he just did. Then, he shoots us one of his priceless smiles and goes about doing whatever he's doing. It's amazing how quickly they start seeking our approval. We are so proud of him and will strive to be sure he never has to wonder about that.

Here are some recent pics.

Grady and Noni

Grady, Noni and Pops

One of G's new favorite places...and mom's sanity!

Since Grady likes sitting in the sink I figured he'd like bathing in it too!

Dear Grady,

Oh my goodness! I had no idea God made little boys as sweet as you! You are growing so big, and eating so good! You love apples and pears, but you're absolutely disgusted by bananas. You think they are gross! You are scooting around everywhere and army crawling some too. Basically if you want to get to a certain place, you can. You're a persistent and determined little guy. If you're not ready for bed, you cry and cry and don't give up until momma or daddy come and get you. Sometimes you just want some more cuddle time, and sometimes you are still hungry and alot of times you just want to play for a little longer.

We love playing with you. You giggle all the time. You are such a sweet and welcoming little boy. Everyone says you have the best smile, and wonderful disposition. And those descriptions don't even begin to explain what a wonderful little man-child you are.

We love you, Grady! Happy 7 months little man!

Momma and Daddy

6 month check up

2010-10-03T10:17:00.000-04:00

Grady had his 6 month check up this past week. Here are the stats:

Weight: 16 lbs. 7 oz. - 22nd percentile
Lenght: 28.75 inches - 48th percentile
Head circumference - ...can't remember measurement, but 64th percentile

He's healthy and Dr. Riley said he's growing well. He'd love to see him a little fatter, but is super happy with where he is now.

We're so proud of this little guy!

Favorite Place

2010-10-02T21:51:00.001-04:00

I cannot walk into our guest bathroom without Grady immediately leaning down toward the sink ready to get in it. I don't know what it is, maybe the mirror, maybe the soap dispenser, maybe the shiny faucet, or maybe the way he fits just perfectly in it...can't be certain why, but Grady loves loves loves this sink! And it cracks me up. He'd sit in there for an hour if I'd let him. What can I say? He's easy to please!

Mini Vacation

2010-10-02T21:43:00.000-04:00

Jon and I will celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary on October 8. We wanted to take a mini vacation in honor of it so we made plans to stay in north GA and let my parents keep Grady for the long weekend. It was wonderful! There's nothing about the trip that I would change...except maybe the incredibly steep driveway that we had to drive up and down!

We got to spend the weekend with each other and a couple of our dearest friends, Joe and Andrea. We were able to go to sleep early - or late - and sleep in without worrying about a little boy who needs constant attention. It was a much needed and very much appreciated break. And believe me...by Sunday morning I couldn't get this little man in my arms fast enough!

Here are a few pics of our trip.

Our hike turned into more of an adventure than we'd hoped for...what we thought was going to be about 4.5 miles turned into about 6.5 miles. More miles than any of the four of us had walked in several months! None of us will soon forget it though!

B, it's been a fabulous five years! Here's to many many more! I love you!

Grady and Noni

2010-10-02T21:29:00.000-04:00

Noni came to visit for an evening a week or so ago. Jon and I were getting ready to head to Georgia for our mini vacation, so I had lots to do. Shannon took care of Grady that night while I packed and got everything together for our trip the next day. I think she and Grady both had lots of fun!

6 Months

2010-09-12T20:58:00.000-04:00

How has it already been 6 months since I first laid eyes on this little man?

A few new things Grady is doing these days:

He's eating cereal and veggies like a champ! So far he likes them all, which is a good thing. Hopefully he won't be a picky eater. He's had sweet potatoes, squash, carrots and peas. He'll have green beans next and then we'll move on to fruits. Woo hoo!

Grady is rolling over both ways now and is sitting up (somewhat) on his own. I found him on his belly this morning when I went in his room, playing with pacifiers and talking to himself. This makes him seem so big to me. This morning he even pushed up on his hands and toes and pushed forward, trying to crawl. I love that he's learning and maturing and meeting his milestones, but I've got to admit...it's a little bit sad!

He's starting reaching for people (namely me and Jon), which is so sweet. I went with Jon and the students from church to a camping retreat this weekend. My mom came in town and kept Grady on Friday night and Saturday so I could spend the night. It was my first night away from him overnight. I thought it would be alot harder than it was. I, of course, missed him like crazy. When he woke up this morning, he was soooooo excited to see me! He was squealing and laughing and hugging me.

He continues to think Jon is the funniest human on earth...Hayes is still the funniest canine. Jon always figures out what makes him laugh first.

Dear Grady,

You are such a sweet little boy. Your personality is becoming bigger everyday. I can't wait to see the funny thing you'll do tomorrow! You make mine and Daddy's life better in every way! We knew that we would love you, but I couldn't have ever imagined we could love you this much. You are truly a joy. We love your giggles and laughter...it's our favorite noise in the whole world. You have started reaching out for Momma and Daddy to hold you. That makes us feel so special.
Jeff preached a sermon this morning on Daniel and the lions den. He talked about angels protecting us. Someone asked a preacher friend of his if he believed that we each have personal angels. The preacher's answer was, "Yes." And when the man asked how he could be so sure, the preacher answered, "Children grow up, don't they?" So, I'm certain that God has assigned you your own special angels. Praise God for His protection over your life!

"For he will command his angels concerning you,

to guard you in all your ways;

they will lift you up in their hands,
so that you will not strike your foot against a stone."

Psalm 91:11-12

Love, Momma

T-I-G-E-R-S...GEAUX TIGERS!

2010-09-12T14:47:00.001-04:00

29

2010-09-03T22:29:00.000-04:00

I turned 29 today. I've entered the last year of my twenties. I spent the day/evening with the two loves of my life. Jon came to Lexington to have a lunch date with me, and Grady loved on me tonight. We took it easy, had dinner at Julie and Jeff's and are planning to go to bed early. My kind of night! These are the flowers that my sweet hubby sent me.

Baby Quilt

2010-09-03T21:59:00.000-04:00

A friend of mine had her new little boy about 2 months ago and I just finished his gift. It may be my favorite quilt yet! What do you think?

Family Photo Op

2010-08-22T15:58:00.000-04:00

Last night we decided to make up for all the pictures we haven't been taking lately.

Chompers

2010-08-22T09:02:00.000-04:00

Grady's got two teeth already! He still likes to stick his tongue out all the time so they are rarely seen, but they are most definitely there! He's steady teething still so more are sure to appear in the next month or so.

Sweet Taters

2010-08-22T08:51:00.000-04:00

He loves them! This was his first real food, other than rice cereal. He ate the whole bowl. I haven't decided yet what his next food will be. Any suggestions??

Congrats Drew and Cack!

2010-08-17T22:16:00.000-04:00

You two make a beautiful couple. I hope that Hawaii is treating you well. I'm sure you're having a great time!

Drew and Cack got married this past weekend and we were honored to be a part of the wedding party. Jon stood with Drew as a groomsman and I was an honorary bridesmaid for Cack. It was a beautiful wedding. Cack made an absolutely gorgeous bride and Drew cleans up pretty well with a tux! There were several friends in from BR, so it was a treat to see everyone and to be able to introduce Grady to some Louisiana blood. I can't wait till G gets to eat his first crawfish!

Mom, Dad and Trace came in town on Saturday and babysat for us while we enjoyed ourselves at the wedding and reception. The reception was a blast. Number one: they decided to hire a square dance caller. What a good idea in our part of the country! Everyone enjoyed it - young and old. Jon and Joe choreographed a dance for Drew and Cack. They called it "The Gift." I must say, I was extremely nervous about this happening, and I must admit, after all was said and done, I was actually kind of proud to be Jon's wife. I love that Jon is so full of energy and excitement. I love that he loves to dance. He just doesn't care...he has a great time! I've always thought that maybe I'd be a better dancer if I was concerned what everyone else thought of me. Anyway, here's a link to the dance video for your viewing pleasure. Let me know what you think of it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vd6vgy8IRGI

Baby Dedication and 5 months!!!

2010-08-17T22:15:00.000-04:00

Jon and I dedicated Grady this past Sunday. It was really simple and sweet. I read scripture and Jon prayed over Grady. It was a really sweet time for our family and a special time to remember.

I read Deuteronomy 6:4-9, God's charge to parents and really father's as head of the household to bring a child up in the way of the Lord. To always speak of Him and think of Him. That the Lord would truly be the center of our household. That is my biggest prayer! I believe that if God is center, then everything else will fall into place. I know it takes work on our part, but I believe that God blesses our obedience. The other scripture is Psalm 25:4-5, which is the scripture passage I've been praying over Grady since he was in my belly. Jon prayed for Grady's health and that he would grow up to be a man like David, after God's own heart...a man who is not afraid to fight for the Lord. I love that! What a manly, and Godly prayer!

Thank you to our parents for making the trip up to L'burg for the dedication. It meant alot to us! We love you and love you being around Grady.

Grady turned 5 months last Thursday. It was an insane weekend of events so I haven't had time to slow down long enough to write about it.

Here's his 5 month pic. I even made it in the picture...miraculous!

Isn't he a doll???? So, here are the stats, then I'll give more pics.

Grady is probably about 15 pounds. We don't have digital scales so I'm not really sure. I know that since he started eating cereal he's definitely grown. He's about 26 inches long.

This weekend Grady got to meet lots of aunts and uncles from BR. Of course he loved them all!

Here are a few more recent pics.

grady's big hairy brother!

Life - Week 21

2010-08-04T22:42:00.000-04:00

Grady is now in his 21st week, and time is flying! I feel like a week sneaks by in a minute. I want to be able to slow time down a little so I can enjoy my evenings a little more instead of rushing through to get ready for the next day. I long for Fridays more than I ever have before when I can just sit and enjoy my family.

Jon and I were talking about how we can't finish any tasks these days. Our house is always a wreck, which drives both of us crazy, but Jon seriously may lose his mind soon. I've also gotten bad about taking pictures, working on G's baby book and blogging.

OK enough about all that. Here's a quick update.

Grady is laughing all the time now! His favorites or Daddy and Hayes. Jon can do anything and he thinks it's hilarious. And all Hayes has to do is walk past his line of vision and he dies laughing. I, on the other hand, could stand on my head and bend over backwards, and he might giggle a little. That may be a slight exaggeration, but I'm much less funny than the boys in the house.

He's getting very close to having 2 pearly whites to fill that big gummy grin. He's teething like a mad man. Most days he's not bothered by them at all. Other days, he's just beside himself with pain. I can't stand knowing that he's feeling bad, and there's nothing I can do about it. I give him Orajel, but he hates it. Screams. Loud. I can't really blame him though. I tried it after his reaction the first time and it is terrible.

He's also very close to rolling over from back to tummy. He's much more comfortable on his tummy these days, and never really complains. If he's tired of it, he just rolls to his back. Pretty cool.

He's drinking alot of milk everyday...about 33 oz., and eating cereal two times a day.

He's still a very content and happy little boy. He's always smiling. Those smiles still melt my heart. He's a joy.

Last random fact: Jon left tonight for a 2 day camping trip. I found time to blog, do laundry, work on a quilt, and bake a cake (yellow cake with chocolate icing - just for me) all while watching a movie. Funny how that works!

Hope to post some pics soon.

Big Boy Food!

2010-07-25T18:04:00.000-04:00

Grady's doc recommended we start feeding him rice cereal. He doesn't like it very much yet. Hopefully he will soon, because it's not going away! Here are some pics of our first adventures.

Updated Reading List

2010-07-23T22:14:00.000-04:00

If you haven't read Barbara Kingsolver's newest book The Lacuna, you should pick it up. It is wonderful. I've read several of her books and they are all beautifully written, inspirational and make me wish that I could come up with words like she can. Anyway...The Lacuna is highly recommended. Thanks Drew and Cack for the Christmas gift!

This year I've read a few books that were on my reading list from last December.

The Lacuna-Kingsolver
A Farewell to Arms - Hemingway
Girls in Trucks - Katie Crouch
On Becoming Babywise - Ezzo
The True Vine - Andrew Murray
Shepherding a Child's Heart - Tedd Tripp
Of Mice and Men - John Steinbeck
A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens

You may be wondering how in the world I find the time to read since Grady was born. I have re-discovered my love for books on cd. I drive back and forth to work 5 days a week for about 35 minutes each way. That's at least 1 hour and 10 minutes, 5 days a week of someone reading a novel to me. I love it! I'm a total goober, but it beats the heck out of radio. I also read on my lunch breaks and before I fall asleep at night, and just pick up wherever the narrator left off. Love me, defriend, think I'm a big dork...I'm going to continue having people read books to me while I drive.

Next on the list: A Tree Grows in Brooklyn - Betty Smith

Orioles Game

2010-07-18T23:02:00.001-04:00

While Jon and I were at Josh and Jessi's last week, Shannon and her friend Dana came in town too. They came in on Wednesday. It was fun for us all to be together for a few days. On Friday night, they were kind enough to babysit while Josh, Jessi, Jon and I went to an Orioles ballgame. Oh my goodness! It was such a fun night. I couldn't believe how good it felt to be out with Jon without worrying about Grady's feeding or sleeping schedule. I loved it and now can't wait to go on some more dates with my husband. Here are a few pics from our night out.

Thank you Shannon and Dana for giving us all a night out! It was much much needed and greatly appreciated! Y'all are the best!

4 Months

2010-07-18T22:49:00.000-04:00

Oh my! Grady is 4 months old and I can hardly remember life without him. Well, I do remember that I used to sleep a lot more than I do now...and be able to eat a meal without wondering if the baby is going to cry or wake up before I take my last bite. But that's about all I can remember.

Parenthood is so consuming! Jon and I are learning right now how to continue nurturing our own relationship, and care for and nurture Grady at the same time. What a challenge it is! Any advice is welcomed!

Here are a few things about Grady at 4 months.

-He's more alert than ever before, taking in this big world with every sense.
-He's learning to sit up. Not there on his own yet but doesn't need nearly as much assistance as he did last month.
-He's rolling over from tummy to back and thinks it's hilarious...and is pretty darn proud of himself.
-He's giggling all the time now...at anything and everything, including things that I would never dream would be funny.
-He's just started teething and the process has made quite a miserable baby for the past few nights. I can't wait to see that first pearly white!
-Grady almost always has his tongue at least halfway out of his mouth. We're hoping teeth will help keep it in more...we'll see! It's really cute so who cares...
-He loves his cousin August. Gus likes to give him hugs and kisses and gets really concerned when Grady cries. They had a good time together last week!
-Grady looks a little more like his momma every day...at least he does to Momma! His mouth is all Jon. He's got the biggest, brightest, sweetest gummy grin and he gets it so honest! His eyes and many of his little expressions are all me! I love it!

Dear Grady,

We have had such a good time with you this past month. You make life so much more interesting and fun! Momma and Daddy love seeing you smile and love making you laugh. We're so glad to know you're a happy boy! My favorite thing about you right now is that if we are in a room together, but I'm not holding you, you make sure you know where I am. You'll look up every now and again from whatever you're playing and find me - even from across the room - and flash me that big gummy grin. I don't think that will ever get old for me! I smile back and coo at you every time I see it! I love you big boy, and can't wait to see what you do next month!

Love, Momma

Washington D.C. "Vacation"

2010-07-18T22:07:00.000-04:00

So the biggest thing I learned this past week was that vacation with a four month old is no vacation at all! Jon and I went to visit family this past week on a sort of vacation. Josh and Jessi live in Maryland and are fairly close to D.C. Our intentions were to go into the city a couple or three days throughout the week. We got about a day and a half of D.C. in and were pretty miserable the whole time. Grady is just so unpredictable right now. We never know if he's going to want to take a nap or if he'll actually sit in his stroller. Anyway...I don't think we'll be going on a tourist vacation until our kids are much much older...or staying with grandparents!

We did get to relax the other days we were there. We pretty much stayed at Josh and Jessi's all day and hung out as if we were at home. It was just nice to be with family and away from our career responsibilities for a week. I think this was the longest we've ever been with Josh and Jessi consecutively ever! It was so fun and I think it would be amazing to live in the same neighborhood as them. I would love to be able to go walking with Jessi and our boys every evening!

Gone Runnin'

2010-06-30T07:06:00.000-04:00

I'm so glad my little buddy likes going running with me! Isn't that the best smile in the whole world?

Noni and Pops visit

2010-06-28T19:03:00.000-04:00

I'm so thankful that Grady's been able to see his grandparents...at least one set once a month. I wish that we all lived a little closer so it wouldn't be so hard to find the time to get together.

Hopefully we'll be able to see my parents soon! I know Grammy and Pop are chomping at the bit.

Steve and Shannon, thanks for staying the night with us last Tuesday! We had a great time!

Rubadubdub...

2010-06-28T18:56:00.000-04:00

Our Little Camera Ham...

2010-06-22T22:56:00.000-04:00

I've been meaning to post these pictures on the blog for some time now. When Grady and I went down to Atlanta at the end of May, we had these pictures made of Grady, along with some of Trace and Bella. Just wanted to share the love...

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T21:41:00.000-04:00

Since Jon is normally gone to church by 7:15 on Sunday mornings, I decided that we should have our Daddy celebration on Saturday morning. So I got up and fed Grady, made waffles and got all the gifts ready on the table. Jon opened his presents (I went a little overboard) and we had a sweet little morning together for Jon's first Father's Day. He got a gift from each of us. From me he got a griddle, good for both of us. From Grady he got a baby carrier (Ergobaby) for camping/hiking trips...good for Grady, Jon and me... And from Hayes and Grady, he got some pictures framed for his office walls. So needless to say, it was a great Father's Day for all of us. Jon racked up for this Father's Day. His parents gave him a lounge chair for outside, and my parents gave him a Lowe's giftcard. He's still deciding how he's going to use that giftcard.

Anyway...today was a good day too. We just chilled out at the house. With me back to work full time the weekends have become precious time to rest and recoup for next week. We take full advantage of them...usually.

So here are the Father's Day pictures...

I love these boys!!!

Grady is 3 months old!

2010-06-19T10:42:00.000-04:00

GRADY...

- is bright and bubbly
- smiles all the time
- naps like a champ these days
- giggles out loud, and while still pretty infrequent, it's happening more and more often, and is always such a sweet little surprise for momma and daddy
- looks a bit different every day
- has such a vibrant little personality that becomes bigger every day
- loves playing with his hands still...will they ever get old?
- has discovered his feet...every time he sees them, it's a whole new discovery
- is sleeping about 8.5-9 hours straight through the night
- is such a wonderful little gift
- still thinks Daddy is the funniest person in the world
- still loves his Momma like no one else...
- loves getting to play with Daddy before and after he goes to daycare.

Dear Grady,

You are growing so fast. Daddy and I were talking last night about when you start playing ball and I got sad that you will be big before we know it. You are the light of our life. We love you more than words can say.

Love,

Momma

Sweet Little Smile

2010-06-10T21:33:00.000-04:00

Grady smiles about 1000 times a day now! I wish I could see them all. Thankfully I get a few hours of sweet time with him every day.

I love him.

The Final Days of Maternity Leave...

2010-06-04T22:51:00.001-04:00

Grady's first swim!

Grady in his camo jammies. He's a cute little wilderness man!

Grady and me when I got home from my first day back to work.

Grady and I lived it up during the final week of my leave. We slept good. We played hard. And I got lots and lots of hugs and kisses. I've never done anything so difficult. Jon says it's not true, but I honestly can't think of anything more difficult than sending our little boy to daycare.

On Monday we went to Jeff and Julie's for a Memorial Day cookout. We spent the afternoon on their back porch. Tuesday I took Grady to the Gritton's house to go swimming. He loved the water although the pics in this post don't prove so. He cooed and smiled and giggled. I loved it, although next time I'm bringing Jon so I can just layout! I wanted to be lazy, but apparently laziness is out of the question with a three month old. Speaking of...he'll officially be three months old next Friday. He is 12 weeks today and is growing so much. Wednesday we had girls over for bible study and yes, G-man was the old male allowed in the house. Even Hayes was in the garage. Thursday we did absolutely nothing except grocery shop. I just loved on my boy.

Back to Work

2010-06-04T22:45:00.000-04:00

I went back to work today and it was much less terrible than I thought it would be. Of course Monday will be the true test. Jon kept him today so that wasn't terribly difficult. Monday he starts at daycare. Jon is dropping him off and picking him up so that may help me a little.

This is the devotion I read today from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young:

"Welcome challenging times as opportunities to trust Me. You have Me beside you and My Spirit within you, so no set of circumstances is too much for you to handle. When the path before you is dotted with difficulties, beware of measuring your strength against those challenges. That calculation is certain to riddle you with anxiety. Without Me, you wouldn't make it past the first hurdle!"

"The way to walk through demanding days is to grip My hand tightly and stay in close communication with Me. Let your thoughts and spoken words be richly flavored with trust and thankfulness. Regardless of the day's problems, I can keep you in perfect Peace as you stay close to Me."

James 1:2, Philippians 4:13, Isaiah 26:3

How relevant to my day! Thanks for all your prayers and sweet notes for me as I become a working momma. I hate that I can't be at home with Grady full time, but I trust that the Lord has a plan and purpose for the way our life happens every day...even the day that Grady goes to daycare.

What I See in My Rearview Mirror...

2010-06-04T22:19:00.001-04:00

Grady...playing with his new favorite friends...his hands! Aren't they wonderful!

Trip to Owensboro

2010-05-28T22:17:00.000-04:00

We went to Owensboro to visit Jon's family yesterday. We just went for the day so it was fun-filled, and maybe a bit overwhelming for little G-man. Josh, Jessi and Gus were in town and it was Gus' first time meeting Grady...so fun. Gus was so sweet with him. He wanted to give him hugs and hold him. It really was super cute. Hopefully they'll be big friends as they get older. Having babies makes me want to be around our families all that much more, and it becomes all that much more difficult to make it happen. Anyway...we had pictures taken of the boys together and some family pics taken too. Here they are!

Trip to Atlanta

2010-05-25T23:24:00.000-04:00

Grady and I took our first solo trip to Atlanta to stay with my mom and dad for the weekend. Grammie and Pop had 14 people staying in their new home. We had a blast. It was Grady's first time meeting Aunt Lauren and her boyfriend Carl, Aunt Amy and cousin Bella, Aunt Donna and Uncle David, Aunt Nancy and Mawmaw. It was a trip full of new faces and fun people for Grady to play with. And he was all smiles this weekend, although the pictures I'm posting don't really show it. Thanks to Aunt Nancy, here are a few of the pictures documenting the weekend. I took the weekend off of camera duty.

A Baby Quilt

2010-05-19T14:40:00.005-04:00

Our friends Freddie and Jenn, who have been in the adoption process for several months, just found out yesterday that they are getting a little girl in a couple of months. She's due July 18th so it could be even sooner than that. Here is a picture of the quilt that I started making her when I found out they were adopting a little girl. Obviously it is not completed. I'll post more pics when I'm done with it.

The back

The front

We are sooooo excited for them. What an adventure they have ahead of them!

A Day Full of Fun

2010-05-17T21:26:00.005-04:00

Grady slept in today. He woke up at 7 :50, ate and went straight back down until 10:30, and woke up happy and cooing. Too sweet!

Grady got to meet his Uncle Zac for the first time today. They had a really good time together. Grady even gave Zac a few smiles.

Then we got dressed and went to Lexington to find Jon his first Father's Day gift. Yes, I know it's early but I'm going back to work in the beginning of June and am worried that I won't have the time to run those errands after I go back. I know I'll get the hang of doing it all, but I can't imagine life with a baby and a job right now!

We went to a friend's birthday party tonight, then came home and Daddy gave Grady a bedtime bath. He loves his Daddy! He seriously thinks Jon's the funniest thing ever!

2 Month Check Up...

2010-05-14T22:44:00.004-04:00

Grady had his 2 month check up with Dr. Riley today. Let me just tell ya...getting shots is the pits! I hated watching his little face go from smiling and happy to completely traumatized! He turned red as a tomato, open mouth, tongue out, crying without breathing until the third shot was over. I fed him almost immediately and he was soothed and got over it quickly. Thank you God! I really almost cried watching him cry. It was awful. I guess I should be thankful that I'm the only one of the two of us who will remember this traumatic event.

Anyway...he is certainly a growing boy! He now weighs 10 lbs, 13.5 oz. (28 percentile), 23.5 inches long (66%), and his head circumference is 39.5 cm (36%). He's on the small side, but the doc is looking for an upward curve for Grady, not in relation necessarily to the other 99 babies.

Dr. Riley put it to me this way: A 2 year old is expected to gain 3 lbs. and 3 inches in 1 year. Grady gained 3 lbs and 4 inches in 6 weeks! Doc says that is superb! I'll tell you right now, I'm going to enjoy these days when I can still manage to carry the car seat with him in it! He is helping to build my arm muscles already.

Anyway...he's doing well, even after his first round of vaccines. He's been a little sleepier than normal today, but I can't really complain about that. Better sleepy than fussy is my motto for Dr. visits.

Here are a few more pics from the past week.

Grady is 2 months old!

2010-05-13T17:53:00.007-04:00

Wrinkles

2010-05-10T22:08:00.006-04:00

Aren't these the cutest forehead wrinkles you have ever seen? Grady's little wrinkles happen anytime he looks up. They make his forehead extra fun to kiss.

I'm realizing that I need to start getting Jon to take more pictures of me with Grady. You'd think I never hold him!

Our First Good Family Picture

2010-05-09T15:52:00.002-04:00

Naps...

2010-05-08T12:53:00.007-04:00

I wish someone had told me that getting an 8 week old to know that he needs to take naps would be so difficult. I think this has been the most challenging part of being a mom. He does fine at night, but I think if I can get him to sleep well during the day, he'll sleep through the night in the next few weeks....and isn't that every new mom's goal?

I was reading somewhere that babies develop brain cells and a larger capacity for learning new things while they are sleeping. If they aren't getting adequate sleep throughout the day, then when they are awake they will be too worn out to really learn and meet their milestones.

I had a little heart-to-heart with Grady the other night and told him all of this information. I'm pretty sure our little talk convinced him! I also called my friend Jenny two days in a row asking for napping advice. I needed mommy counseling. Thanks to her advice, and my little talk with Grady, he is doing much better, and getting better every day. I'm so glad!

I'm hoping that soon I can say that he loves naps!

2010-05-07T19:20:00.001-04:00

This is the verse that I've been praying over Grady since he was born. I pray that he would be completely dependent on the Lord to know what his next step is at every point in his life. It is truly a privilege to be his momma!

"Show me the right path, O Lord;
point out the road for me to follow.

Lead me by your truth and teach me,
for you are the God who saves me.
All day long I put my hope in you."

Psalm 25:4-5

The Many Expressions of Grady Daniel...

2010-05-03T16:33:00.009-04:00

Trip to the Game Farm

2010-05-03T16:30:00.002-04:00

Grady and I joined Jen, Ruby and Jack at the game farm in Frankfort last week. Grady slept through the whole thing, but I managed to get a picture of him with the gigantic snapping turtle.

Warning: the pictures are frightening!

2010-04-28T17:47:00.006-04:00

The picture above was taken at 36 weeks...

This was taken today-6 weeks, 5 days after delivery...

Needless to say, I'm feeling a ton better! I officially started running again on Monday. I started with the fifth week of couch to 5k so that I don't completely kill myself. I've missed running and so has Hayes. We are both determined to lose our baby weight!

Mommy's Little Helper...

2010-04-27T21:48:00.003-04:00

Grady at 6 weeks

2010-04-23T11:08:00.004-04:00

Updates:

Grady is now smiling and giggling. Giggles are still usually when he's sleeping, but we can occasionally get him to smile at us making funny faces or noises at him, or shaking toys that make fun noises. I'm sure this will become more frequent over the next few weeks.

He's growing like a weed, nearing 10 lbs and 23 inches long.

He's been sleeping very well at night, usually about 6 hours from 9:30p.m. to 3:30 a.m., eat then back to sleep till about 7:30, eat then, back down immediately till about 10:30 a.m. I'm pretty pumped about this trend toward sleeping through the night. Of course last night he ate ever 3 hours...may be going into a growth spurt.

He's following our hands and other toys from one side to the other.

We completely adore him in every way! There's not one aspect that I don't like about being his momma. This has been the biggest 6 week lesson in servanthood that I could ever have imagined. Jon and I are here to meet his ever need. I love to see his needs met and him totally satisfied. It is by far the most exhausting and demanding, but also the most rewarding and joy-filled experience of my life. I just need a couple of little Grady smiles a day to keep me going. That's all the reward I need!

Enjoy the cute little pic! I'm off to cuddle with my son.

Erin

6 weeks down...

2010-04-22T17:30:00.003-04:00

I had my 6 week checkup today and I'm officially released to exercise. On this weekend's to-do list: buy new running shoes along with other running necessities! I'm soooo excited to start literally running my rear end off.

Yawns...

2010-04-20T16:46:00.002-04:00

Baby Yawns....

and....

Puppy Yawns...

Grady turns 1 month!!

2010-04-15T19:27:00.004-04:00

Grady turned 1 month old on Monday. He's getting sooooo big!

I went to a baby store today in Lexington that had baby scales. So I weighed our little man. He's weighing in at a whopping 9 lbs. 5.8 oz. with clothes and diaper. That's up 1 lb. 2.5 oz from his doctor's visit 3 weeks ago. He's gaining over .75 oz per day. I love knowing that he's growing and maturing the way he should be.

Here are some recent pics.

Grady at 4 weeks!

2010-04-10T11:53:00.004-04:00

Jon Pulls a Butt

2010-04-10T11:30:00.003-04:00

Jon decided that he wanted to learn to smoke meat. With advice from some of the best bbq cooks in this part of the country he started with a Boston Butt.

It. Was. Awesome. Perfectly seasoned. Perfectly done. Bravo B!

My next request is a ham. Growing up, my Papaw always smoked a ham for Thanksgiving and Christmas. I could have made a meal on that ham for weeks on end without getting tired of eating the same thing. It was definitely my favorite food at holidays.

I'm super proud of Jon for trying this...and having a great success! I feel like this is a win-win situation. Jon's experimenting with something new, which he loves to do (win for Jon). And I get to eat some really good food as a result (win for me).

We've documented this experience with the pictures below.

Just getting started...around 11pm

The victim...

Almost done...notice the sun is up now...

Finally done... 7 a.m.

Jon pulling the meat.

Wish you were here to share a meal with us!

Tummy Time

2010-04-08T21:02:00.002-04:00

Getting started with tummy time...

Trying to eat his hand instead of doing tummy time...

Nearing the end of tummy time...getting annoyed...

Fieldtrip to Lowe's

2010-04-08T20:57:00.006-04:00

Daddy is so proud! We took Grady to Lowe's for the first time tonight. Jon is looking forward to the days when he can teach Grady everything he knows about tools, grills, and basically everything manly. Of course Grady didn't learn much on this trip since he slept the entire time. His carseat is like his little hibernation cave.

Over the River and Through the Woods...

2010-04-06T17:51:00.004-04:00

...to Noni and Pops' house we go.

We took our first road trip with Grady yesterday. We headed to Owensboro to see Jon's parents and his "Nannie." Nannie hadn't met Grady yet so that was super fun. Grady enjoyed his time at Nannie's house, hearing all her good stories. There's nothing like story time and Nannie's... Nannie is the first great-grandparent that Grady has been able to meet so far.

Nannie and Grady 4/6/10

We spent the rest of the day at Noni and Pops' house. Shannon's friend Dana came by to meet Grady, we ate dinner, hung out on their back patio. It's perfect weather right now in Kentucky. Getting to almost 80 every day. We've been able to get outside and enjoy the weather. This has been really good for me! We had a wonderful day with everyone in Owensboro. Next visit hopefully Uncle Robin and Aunt Becky will be able to meet the little dude. We are blessed with fabulous family on both sides. I can't wait to be able to show him off to every one of them!

Noni, Pops and Grady - 4/6/10

Grady's First Easter...

2010-04-06T17:25:00.003-04:00

Grady's first Easter was a success! The Easter Bunny just brought him a card and some milk...no big Easter baskets. We went to church and he looked adorable. Lauren sent him some super cute outfits and I attempted to put him in one of them for Easter morning. I had him all dressed and looking dashing, took a few pics and then he decided to have a blow out before we left the house. I changed his diaper only to find that it was very difficult to get him back into the outfit. I decided that if I was going to have to change his diaper at church it needed to be a bit simpler. So alas, he did get his picture made in it, but wore something completely different.

Here he is...

Sunday afternoon Jeff and Julie invited us out to their house for dinner. We spent the whole time on their new back porch. It was a beautiful day and I wouldn't have spent it any other way. Grady pretty much ate and slept the entire time. Jeff "Papa G" held him for at least two hours just like this...Grady was on the king size bed.

A Walk in the Park

2010-04-02T17:29:00.003-04:00

Since I've been cleared to start walking, Grady and I decided to go for a walk in the park today. He loved it (slept the entire time)! We've had beautiful weather this week and have been outside enjoying it as much as possible. We actually stayed out for over an hour today.

The great people I work with gave me a baby shower in February. Among many wonderful gifts, one group of people went together and bought me one of my favorite baby toys...Grady's BOB jogging stroller. We've used it twice now on our walks and it has shown itself worthy of all the hype. I love it!!! I can't wait until I'm cleared to run so I can really try it out.

Here's a picture of Grady in the BOB.

Never Wake a Sleeping Baby...

2010-04-02T11:16:00.006-04:00

...unless you're nursing him and he's been asleep for 5 hours!!!!!!

Yep, that's right! Grady slept from 12:50 a.m. to 6 a.m.! And yes, I did get up and go check on him at 5:30 to make sure he was breathing. Last night we decided to let him sleep in his nursery instead of in our room. We weren't getting sleep because of all his little noises. He's been taking most of his naps in his big boy crib so we decided to experiment overnight. And it went fabulously! I know it's early, but I think we're all going to be better for him being in his own room.

Here are a few things we've learned about our little guy:

1. He has two distinct cries: the first one is more of a whimper and is just a little pitiful, like he just wants to be cuddled, and the other sounds like a shrieking pterodactyl, and means he's either dirty, hungry or both.

2. He is completely unaffected by Hayes' barks, without so much as a flinch. I however am completely annoyed by his constant barking at neighbors and birds.

3. His most awake time during the 24 hours is still from about 12 to 1 in the morning.

4. He doesn't mind being in his car seat as long as he is in motion (either me carrying him or the car or stroller moving)

5. We've decided that he looks a little like each of us, but looks perfectly like Grady Daniel Bailes, meaning we've pretty much given up on trying to figure out which of us he looks more like.

6. He has the cutest little grin in the entire world. It's big and open-mouthed and reminds me so much of Jon every time.

7. When he sleeps, he sometimes has little dreams and grins and laughs during them. Also, the most adorable thing ever.

8. When it's time to eat, he's ready to eat! He sometimes gets so excited that his arms and legs fly around, like he's doing side crunches and then he starts snorting. This cracks me up every single time. He's a little spastic, but we love him through it!

9. He loves his swing, bouncie seat, music, and his mobile.

10. He most definitely recognizes Daddy and Momma's voices, and turns his head to look for us when he hears us talking to him.

We're enjoying getting to know him more and more everyday, as his little personality continues to develop. Finally, here are some recent pictures...

Bath Time!!!

2010-03-29T17:50:00.003-04:00

So Grady loves getting big boy baths. Until his umbilical cord fell off we had to just give him little sponge baths. Now he's getting to sit in his little tub and he loves it! I'm so relieved to know that it's something we have to do that he will also enjoy.

I love being this little guy's mommy! He's made our life so much more full in every way!

Doctor Visits

2010-03-27T20:10:00.004-04:00

Grady and I both had doctor visits last Thursday. Grady weighed in at 7 lbs. 13 oz. - 2 oz. up from his birth weight and 10.5 oz. up from his last doctor's appointment a week earlier. He gained 1.5 oz. per day this past week! He's also grown 1.5 inches in these first two weeks, measuring in at 21 inches now. Our boy likes to eat! This momma is tired, but so proud my little man.

Dr. R, Grady's pediatrician, says he's doing great. We'll see him again when Grady is 2 months old for some immunizations.

As for me, Dr. C says I'm healing up just fine. I was cleared to start driving again...thank God! I was beginning to have some serious cabin fever. I've gotten out of the house a couple a times by myself and once with Grady. I felt like a real momma, leaving the house with the baby all by myself.

On our way to the doctor

Anyway...we're doing just fine. Hoping to establish a good eating/playing/sleeping schedule in the next few weeks. That will just make our life so much simpler!

We are truly enjoying this little guy. As ready as I am for him to be sleeping through the night and be on a really good schedule throughout the day, I also realize that I will never get these days back. I'm trying to enjoy every little moment, one little moment at a time...even the ones that happen at 3:25 in the morning!

Grammy's visit

2010-03-21T18:33:00.006-04:00

My mom came in town on Thursday to help out around the house and with Grady. It's been so good to have her here. I wish that we lived closer so this could be a more regular thing. Although I'm sure, with Grady in the picture, it will become more regular now. We've had good food, fun conversations and lots of help around here this weekend. Here are a few of the pictures we took while she was in town. Grady is going to think he's some celebrity by the number of pictures we've taken of him thus far. He's pretty famous in our minds anyway...

Grammy, Grady the grandson and Hayes the grand-dog

Jon and Grady watching March Madness

Life - Day 7

2010-03-18T15:57:00.007-04:00

Grady has been with us for 7 days now and is such a joy!!!

He's sleeping wonderfully, which means momma and daddy are getting pretty good sleep too. Daddy likes to say "we are getting really good sleep." Momma had to remind Daddy this morning that "we" is probably not the best pronoun to use at this point since Momma's the one getting up 3 times a night right now, and staying up to nurse.

In all seriousness, Jon is a wonderful daddy. He wakes up intermittently to make sure I don't need something while I'm awake (or semi-awake) nursing. He is taking care of all things housework and is just being generally helpful.

Ok...I know you just want to see pictures. So alas, here they are.

We love this little dude!

Presenting Grady Daniel Bailes

2010-03-12T15:15:00.005-05:00

Born this morning March 12, 2010 at 9:34 a.m.

weighing in at 7lbs. 11 oz. and 19.5 inches long

We are blessed!!! He's a sweet little boy for sure! We are both doing well, and enjoying getting to know one another.

Thanks for your continued prayers!

~Erin

Rejoice!

2010-03-12T01:39:00.005-05:00

Julie, my dear friend, sister and mother in the ministry gave me a reading assignment for before the c-section in the morning. Boy, did Jon and I both need to hear these words! I read Philippians 4, specifically these verses:

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (vs. 4-9)

I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (v.13)

And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. (v.19)

Thank you, Lord or you peace in our life. Thank you for calming my anxious heart and setting my nerves at ease. Thank you for your promise of reason for rejoicing in the morning!

mmmm...brownies!

2010-03-06T20:25:00.004-05:00

Jon made the best brownies in the world tonight...the secret recipe was courtesy of our good friend Josh Sparks.

Aren't my boys cute?

One More Week

2010-03-05T15:30:00.003-05:00

You'll never believe what a week off work and full of rest will do for a 38 week pregnant woman....amazing things, not only for my attitude, but also for my poor, tired body.

I've really enjoyed my time off and am in the this-is-my-last-whatever-without-being-a-momma mode. For instance this is my last Friday not being a momma. Jon and I are going out with old friends tonight for dinner and it's our last Friday night out without needing a babysitter or without bringing Grady along for the ride. Crazy times!

Anyway, Jon and I have really had a chance to enjoy each other this week, to find rest in the midst of our usual busyness, and just be able to spend good time with friends.

I'm so excited about meeting our little boy. Grady is going to be born next Friday and will enter this world much the way I figure he'll live in it...a little different from the rest of the world. He'll be entering butt first instead of head first and like his daddy will most assuredly live a life that turns this world upside-down. I'm looking so forward to seeing how his little hands and feet are put to work by the Lord. I can't wait to see the lives that will be changed because Grady Daniel Bailes dares to live an extraordinary life that glorifies Jesus Christ.

Love you guys. We'll send out an update next week...and hopefully some pics to go along with it.

~Erin

Jon and Hayes...

2010-02-28T09:24:00.003-05:00

are so excited about Grady coming into our little world. OK, maybe Jon's a little more excited than Hayes.

I'm Done With Work!!!

2010-02-27T19:44:00.002-05:00

I don't mean to sound like I hate my job. I absolutely don't. I just haven't loved going to work for about 3 weeks now. I've just been done mentally, and driving back and forth and sitting at a desk all day has taken a toll on my poor little feet. I would insert a picture of them here but they are just too frightening...and I think I'd rather forget all about them.

Anyway...yesterday was my last day of work for about 14 weeks. I cannot even begin to explain the excitement that is brewing in my heart over this realization. I was talking to my grandmother on the phone yesterday and told her I just can't imagine what it's going to be like to have 3.5 months off work. I haven't had more than 1 consecutive week off work since sometime in high school!

So, I know that I should be taking these next two weeks easy and resting my feet, but there's already a list coming together for all the things I want to get done while I wait on Grady's birth day.

Here's what is left to be done:

~Get car seat buckled into car. It's been in the car since Monday, but hasn't been buckled yet.

~Reorganize kitchen cabinets to accommodate bottles and baby whatnots. I know this may seem like a no-brainer and that we should have plenty of room for all his stuff since we just moved into this house, but we don't. I'm going to have to get organized.

~Clean out fridge and freezer.

~Buy a deep freezer to put in the garage. I'm such a nerd, but getting a deep freezer excites me to no end. I can't wait!

~Finish reading Peace Like a River by Leif Enger and start reading The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver.

~Relax.

We've really gotten so much done already. I feel like we wouldn't be in a mad rush if he decided to come a little earlier. We're so pumped to become this little guy's momma and daddy.

Still Breech at 37 Weeks

2010-02-27T19:25:00.005-05:00

So, Grady has decided that he likes being in my belly head up, butt down. We went back to the doctor on Tuesday and had another ultrasound to check his position. He is most definitely still breech. We opted to have the scheduled c-section rather than attempting the version where the doc tries to turn him manually by pressing on my belly.

So Grady will be born sometime the morning of March 12, 2010. I have to be at the hospital at 7:30 a.m. so sometime after that we will meet our little boy. I've never anticipated anything quite so much. He's been growing and moving in me for months and we've been able to get peeks at his little face, but I'm sure those peeks are going to pale in comparison to seeing him face to face. Jon and I are both going to bawl! It's going to be awesome!

Here are a few of the things I'm praying for until his arrival. I'm praying that he continues to grow and mature at a healthy pace and that his lungs are fully developed by the time he's born. I'm praying that even in the womb he hears how much his momma and daddy love each other, and how much we already completely adore him.

I'm praying that my time with Jon is sweet sweet sweet from now until Grady arrives. The magnitude of this change is just now starting to hit me. I just want to so enjoy the few more days we have as just Jon and Erin without a child. I'm praying that my time with Jesus is even sweeter.

While I'm not too concerned about the actual surgery, I'm a bit concerned about the recovery. I don't do well with needing people to wait on me. I am praying that the Lord, and my body, constantly remind me that I've had major abdominal surgery and I just need to allow my body to heal in its time.

I'm praying for our first few days together at home, that we'll settle into a routine that works well for all three of us, plus Hayes, and that our time together will be oh so special. I know it will be!

Thank you so much for your prayers for us, as we wait for our little boy's arrival in less than two weeks.

Belly Pic 37 weeks

Jon's baby...

2010-02-20T08:43:00.007-05:00

For those of you who don't know, soon after we found out we were pregnant Jon decided that he would not shave his face or head until the baby was born. I think this is a regretful commitment at this point, but since he is not one to go back on a commitment, he is now heavy-laden with extremely unkempt hair.

Jon named his beard the "Beard Fetus," and decided that if I have to carry a baby for 40 weeks, then so will he. He is so ready for the due date of his beard fetus, he can hardly stand it. We go back to the doctor on Tuesday and will find out if Grady is still breech and if we will be having a c-section. I think Jon's secretly hoping for that, since that means he'll get to shave his head and face a week earlier.

If you haven't been keeping up on facebook with the growth and maturity of Jon's beard fetus, allow me to enlighten you.

Jon and me about 10 days after finding out we were pregnant...no beard yet.

Jon at about 3 weeks...

Jon at 36 weeks...

My husband who was once clean-cut, now looks like a crotchety homeless man. I must say, I as well am hoping that Grady decides to grace us with his presence before March 19th.

Have you ever thought you were big??

2010-02-20T08:24:00.008-05:00

...Only to find out you were going to get much much bigger?

Belly pic taken Sept 20, 2009 at about 12 weeks...

Belly pic taken Feb 18, 2010 at about 36 weeks...

My Three Favorite Boys

2010-02-09T18:07:00.004-05:00

Subject to change upon arrival of Grady Daniel...

Jon, Hayes and Trace

35 Week Update

2010-02-09T17:37:00.012-05:00

We are getting ready for this little guy to join us in the world population. We've pretty much got his room set up, all except his window treatment, which will be completed in the next few weeks. I'm feeling as ready as ever...and humongo pregnant. It's really been so much fun being pregnant, but Jon and I are both at the point where we are ready to have a baby to put in the crib. Here are some pics of me at 34 weeks and 5 days...along with one of Grady's room and me and Hayes.

We had a small couples shower this past weekend. We got lots of giftcards and a few other gifts. Jen and Dave were so good to have us all out at their house, and she planned some funny games for the guys to play. The first one was to race to drink Mountain Dew from a baby bottle. The second was to mold a baby out of playdough.

Jon's playdough baby

The best part of this past weekend was that Cullen and Ann came in town and spent Friday and Saturday night with us. It was so good to see them.

I went to the doctor today, but just had a nurse visit since my doc was on vacation and the PA called in due to bad weather. All was well. She couldn't tell if Grady had turned from the breech position, but said that they would most likely do an ultrasound at my next visit. It'll be in 2 weeks and after that every week. That means he will be here soon!

Hope all is well with you.

Erin

Baby Shower, etc...

2010-02-04T20:34:00.010-05:00

This past weekend my mom came in town to come to my first baby shower. It was held at the church, and it was wonderful! I got so many much needed baby things. I told my mom that I was just so blessed with great friends here in Kentucky.

We got about 4 inches of snow this weekend starting late Friday night and into Saturday morning. It was beautiful, but because of the snow, the shower originally scheduled for Saturday had to be rescheduled to Sunday afternoon, but it went off without a hitch. I'm not big on being in the hot seat with all the attention on me...just not really my thing, but it was so much fun! We laughed, I learned more new things about babies, ate some really good cake and just had a great time. Below are a couple of pictures from the shower...and yes, they did make me sit in a rocking chair on a stage.

And this is the diaper cake that my friends Jen and Kelley made. Isn't it adorable!
I loved being able to come home and go through all Grady's gifts and get it all washed and organized. His room is coming together and I think it's going to be super cute. Hopefully I'll be able to post some pictures this week. I'm still working on a couple of things, so I'll just post a picture of the final product rather than boring you with all the work in progress pics.

Below is a picture of my belly at 33 weeks and 1 day.
I will be 34 weeks tomorrow. I can't believe that I only have 6 weeks left. I go back to the doc on Tues for a checkup. I don't thing that Grady has done his final flip, but I'm still praying that he does. I'm not too good at feeling my belly and being able to tell what body part is where, but the kicks are still often down low, and his hiccups can be felt around my ribcage. So I don't think he's really changed positions.

I'm swelling pretty bad at this point...my feet, legs, hands, and face. My blood pressure is fine, so there's really no worries aside me being uncomfortable. I'm not going to lie. I can't wait to not be pregnant any more. I will miss him wiggling in my belly, but aside from that, I will miss no part of this process. I wasn't able complain a bit, until I started swelling around Christmas time. Since then, I've been sort of ready to be done with it all...plus, I can't wait to meet this little guy!

Hope you're all doing well.

Erin

Dear Grady

2010-01-28T09:06:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to let you know that I really like taking you to work with me every day.

Love, Momma

Checkup and random stuff...

2010-01-26T22:17:00.005-05:00

So we had a doctor's appointment this afternoon...and learned a few things. First, I do not have placenta previa and Grady's kidneys are fine. Second, he is breech still. The doc says he's still got time to turn head down...we'll revisit this little issue at our 36 week check up. Finally, Grady is weighing in at 5 lbs. 7 oz. and has 7 more weeks to go. In other words...he's gonna be a big boy. Eli Ringo better watch out!

In other news, we are supposed to be getting anywhere from 5 inches to 2 1/2 feet of snow between Thursday and Saturday of this week. Hopefully it doesn't end up like this...

Last January's Ice Storm

I made some really awesome cookies tonight...and only ate three. Believe it or not, this was a triumph for me. It's the Quaker Oats cookie recipe under the lid of the canister. I don't put raisins in them, but I did add chocolate chips and peanut butter chips. The pb chips was a new addition and made them oh so gooey and yummy!

I'm now wearing maternity clothes that I was given when I first got pregnant. When I was given them, I thought, "I'll never be able to wear these..." Yep...they're now my staples.

Last bit of random information...I'm starting another baby quilt. It's going to be adorable. I hope that it ends up being neutral even though it's got lots of blue in it.

Just wanted to give a quick update. Hope all is well with you.

Erin

31 Weeks

2010-01-16T23:32:00.003-05:00

My belly...and Jon's beard!

The fetuses unite!

Things a Husband Should Never Say to His Pregnant Wife

2010-01-12T21:42:00.004-05:00

These are purely hypothetical. My husband would never say such things!

1. You look weird.
2. I can't wait till you're back to normal.
3. Why do we have to wait 6 weeks to have sex after you have the baby?
4. You're bigger than Lyndsie (a friend who is 5 weeks further along than I am)
5. If Kentucky goes to the Final Four, I'm finding tickets and going! (FYI, the final four happens just two weeks after Grady's due date)
6. You're complaining alot.
7. I can't wait until you and your pillows don't take up 75% of the bed.
8. I want the second trimester back!
9. That shirt makes you look big all over.
10. You're a party pooper! Why are you so tired?

I feel like there may be a revolt against Jon after posting this. Please know that most of the comments were made as a joke. Those that were not a joke, were almost immediately agreed upon by me. And what I didn't agree with, Jon got a piece of my mind over. ;)

Jon's been fabulous through this whole pregnancy. I couldn't ask for a better partner in this process and I'm so thankful! What Jon lacks in tact, he makes up for in cleaning skills!!!

Erin

30 week Check-Up and Christmas in Review

2010-01-12T21:11:00.005-05:00

I went to the doctor last Tuesday for my 30 week visit. All was well. My blood pressure was good – 98 over 60…and to think I was concerned that I may have high blood pressure… Grady's heart rate was 145, so that was good too. We are going to have an ultrasound done at our next visit to check on a couple of things. When we had the 3D ultrasound done in December they sent a short report to Dr. C. In the report they basically send measurement of amniotic fluid, baby's position, position of the placenta, baby's heart rate, and any little oddities that the sonographer may see. I have both anterior and posterior placenta so they want to be sure it's not placenta previa, and they are also going to check on Grady's kidneys. The fluid (urine) levels in his kidneys seemed a bit high to the sonographer so she wrote that on the report. My doc said that this happens a lot with the little baby boys and that once he's born and is circumcised, all should be fine. She just wants to take a look to be sure that all is good to go.

Our Christmas festivities were wonderful. We got to see most of our family, which is different from prior years. Over the Christmas weekend we went to Atlanta to visit with my parents and sisters and Mamaw. Trace and Bella were also there of course. They were so fun! Of course, Trace is still totally enthralled by Jon. They played non-stop for the 3 days we were in town. I told Jon that I was so thankful that God is giving us 3+ years before we have a 3 year old. I don’t know that I could handle one today. I have time to build my patience before we have to deal with a 3 year old Grady on a daily basis.

We got home the Monday after Christmas with a truck full of furniture for Grady's room from my parents' house. We seriously looked like the Clampett's heading up I-75. I should have taken a picture of it! Anyway…I was off work the last week of the year, so I got a lot done on Grady's room, including putting furniture together, finishing his quilt and painting his room.

New Year's weekend we went to Owensboro to be with Jon's side of the family. It was so good to get to visit with Josh and Jessi and August. Gus is walking now and talking - or chattering. He loves to hear his own voice, especially when he screams. He thinks it's really cute...which he most definitely is. We had a surprise party for Jon's mom Shannon who is celebrating her 50th birthday on January 14th. The whole weekend was a lot of fun.

Anyway…that was my catch-up rant. Hope all is well with you!

Erin

Not to freak anyone out, but...

2009-12-31T08:47:00.003-05:00

My belly at 7 months! Yikes!

My Reading List for 2010

2009-12-23T20:51:00.000-05:00

For Entertainment:
1. The Lacuna - Barbara Kingsolver
2. Huckleberry Finn - Mark Twain
3. Their Eyes Were Watching God - Zora Neal Hurston
4. Atlas Shrugged - Ayn Rand
5. Kindred - Octavia Butler
6. The Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre Dumas
7. Water for Elephants - Sara Gruen
8. The Catcher in the Rye - J.D. Salinger
9. The Forgotten Garden - Kate Morton
10. House at Riverton - Kate Morton (If I like The Forgotten Garden)
11. I Capture the Castle - Dodie Smith
12. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn - Betty Smith

Educational/spiritual growth:
1. On Becoming Babywise - Ezzo
2. The True Vine - Andrew Murray
3. Shepherding a Child's Heart - Tedd Tripp
4. Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus - Nancy Guthrie (This will be my advent 2010 devo)

Books I intend to complete before 2010:
1. Of Mice and Men - John Steinbeck
2. A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens

Drew and Catherine gave me The Lacuna for Christmas so it's number one on the list for 2010. Now, I realize that I'm having a baby in March, so even finishing one book a month may be a stretch this coming year. A goal is just that - a goal. Maybe I can read a whole lot in January and February and then spread the rest out.

White Chili Recipe

2009-12-20T19:37:00.000-05:00

This is my favorite white chili recipe ever!

1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1 medium onion
1-1/2 tsp garlic powder (I use fresh minced garlic)
1 tbsp vegetable oil
3 cans (15 1/2 oz each) great northern beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14 1/2 oz.) chicken broth
2 cans (4 oz.) chopped green chilis
1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup whipping cream

In a large saucepan, saute chicken, onion and garlic in oil until chicken is no longer pink. Add beans, broth, chilies and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in sour cream and cream. Serve immediately.
Yield: 7 servings

*** I usually roast chicken breasts on the bone the night before then de-bone and cut into chunks before I start cooking. I like the chicken best that way.

This recipe was given to me when I first moved to Kentucky and I love it!!! Hope you enjoy it too!

Grady at 27 weeks!!!!

2009-12-20T19:29:00.000-05:00

Isn't he adorable????!!!!!

Help! I Am So Indecisive!

2009-12-12T14:04:00.000-05:00

Here are two options I'm thinking of for the bedding in Grady's room...

I've started this quilt and really like it, but I realize too that if you stare at it too long, you might have a seizure, because it's so busy. Lots going on with the patterns...

I've also thought that maybe I should scratch that whole color scheme and go a totally different route...like the pattern of the quilt that shown on this blog post of Crazy Mom Quilts, only made with the material shown below...plus the white.

Do you like the blues above or blues on the right better? I just took one of the patterns out entirely in the right hand picture. I don't want anything too babyish, because I want it to last for a while in his room. But I don't want it too grown up or girly either...Opinions???

I really want to paint the room a pale, pale blue (paler than any blues shown) and have a white tree like this painted on the wall. I think I could do that with either of these quilts. Don't you?

Any opinions are welcome...

Erin

26 weeks

2009-12-10T21:30:00.000-05:00

Wow! I can't believe I'm 26 weeks along now...and I feel huge! The crazy part is that Grady and I will be growing for another approximately 14 weeks. I have no idea how my belly can grow any more.

Here is the most recent picture of my belly.

A ton of things have happened since the last time I posted. Jon and I have moved over to Lburg and we are totally enjoying our new house. It has a garage, which may not seem like a big deal to those of you in Louisiana, but in Kentucky-where I woke up to 19 degrees this morning-it was amazing!

We've pretty much got the house all set up. Jon isn't one to sit around and slowly get stuff unpacked and put away...we worked our tales off for about 3 days. Ok ok...he worked much harder than I did...but I did a whole lot of directing. The only room that isn't set up is Grady's room. I wish I had everything all ready. I realize that's impossible and I need to just chill out. I'm just ready to see it all put together. My current mental block is the bedding...really...I'm just not sure what I want the room to look like all put together. The only thing I know for certain is that we are being given a crib and chest from my parents. The furniture is black wood, so I need to run with that. Any ideas????

I had my gestational diabetes test on Monday and was told that if I failed I should here something by Thursday or Friday...so far, no news, so that's good news! As much as I crave sweets right now, I'm convinced that Grady is going to come out expecting chocalate milk when I nurse him. I'm to the point where I am so ready to meet the little guy. I can't wait to see what he looks like and whose eyes, hair, fingers, toes, cheekbones, and lips he has. I'm taken aback daily at God's workmanship in forming a human being. He's kicking and hiccupping and poking me throughout the day. He's bothered when I put pressure on my belly (if I sit my harm on it, or if I rest the laptop or a book on it, or scoot in too close to my desk at work). He gives a big kick to whatever is cramping his style and room.

I've started having some Braxton Hicks contractions (harmless and really not painful). Jon is way more freaked out by them than I am. He's basically banned me to the couch for the past few evenings. He's cooked dinner and cleaned up and taken care of Hayes. Don't hear me complaining - it's just that I am still totally capable of taking care of things around the house and I feel a little guilty watching him do it all. I've heard from several friends that I should thank my lucky stars and enjoy it while I can...pretty soon, I may not have a choice. And soon after that I'll wish I had time for housekeeping.

And we've decorated for Christmas. Here are the pics! The ladder is my fave!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Erin

We've Relocated!!!

2009-11-29T21:22:00.000-05:00

For 2 years and 9 months I've wondered what it would be like to live in the same town as where our real life was happening. You see, we moved to KY that long ago and found jobs in Lexington...all of which fell together perfectly in a matter of about 40 days. We started praying about moving in the beginning of January 2007 and both had jobs by mid February and closed on our first house in mid March 2007. It is still remarkable to look back and see God's hand guiding our steps throughout this journey...down to which side of town we bought our house. The funny thing is that all the doors opened for us to buy a house in Lexington and have jobs in Lexington, but we were called to be at a church 35 minutes away.

We knew right away that we wanted to go to Hope Community Church which is quite a drive, but it was totally worth it! We started volunteering with the student ministry in December 2007 and have been working with them since. Jon was offered the job as our new student pastor in June of this year and we knew that we wanted to sell our house and move closer to the church. It's been such an amazing journey of next obedient steps with the Lord.

We continue to see God's faithfulness to us on a daily basis. What's so great is that He's not faithful simply in return for our good deeds, but because faithfulness is His nature. God is good. We know his love more every day and have been so blessed to walk in His ways through all of this journey.

All that to say, we loved living in Lexington. There was a purpose behind us being there and not here immediately. And I am so excited for this part of our life...where we live in the same town as our life is happening.

I'm just so thankful for God's provision in our lives. I'm so thankful for God's timing. I'm so thankful for Jon - a husband who seeks the Lord for every step along the way and trusts God fully even when it doesn't seem to make sense.

I hope you're all doing well!

Erin

A Little Boy Named Grady

2009-11-11T20:14:00.000-05:00

We found out for sure that we are having a little boy in March. His name will be Grady Daniel after my two grandfathers. My dad's dad is Grady Byron Parker. He's a retired preacher and is a man devoted whole-heartedly to Jesus. My mom's dad was William Daniel White, Jr. He was also an amazing man of God. He loved the Lord and his family more than any man I've ever known. I am truly privileged to have know him. We called them both Pawpaw and if distinction from one another was necessary, we always just used their last names, as in "Pawpaw Parker" or "Pawpaw White." Yes, we were are creative bunch! Anyway...all this to say, both of my granddads were and still are amazing men who have strived to honor God with their lives. I pray that Grady is a boy, young man and man who honors God with his entire life. I pray that his testimony is this: "I have known and loved Jesus for as long as I can remember."

Grady means "Child of Nobility" and Daniel means "God is my Judge." I am praying that our little man embodies the meaning of his name on many levels. I pray that he conducts himself in manner worthy of the gospel of Jesus Christ - honorable and noble. I pray that he never has to think too hard about who he'd rather please - man or God. I pray that his little life is pleasing to the Lord even now...as I know it is!

I'm feeling the little dude roll around, kick and punch me throughout the day now. I've never felt anything so cool. It is the most reassuring feeling too! I love feeling him move around in my belly!

Here is an updated belly picture! I think I've grown a lot since I last posted.

My visit with Mom and Trace was really really good. Here is one of my favorite pictures from the weekend. I think Trace was definitely the cutest cowboy in Kentucky!

Mom and Trace were here over the Halloween weekend, and we had a fun, full weekend. They came in on Saturday and we went to trunk of treats with our church. Then to church on Sunday. After church we went to eat and then Jon rode Trace around the church land on the four wheeler...then we went to my friend Barbara's farm to ride horses.

Then after that, we rushed back to my house and cleaned for someone who was coming to see the house! I've got to say I wasn't really excited about this since I feel like so many people have come to see it and no one has made an offer. I felt like we were doing a lot of work for nothing.

Well, we now have a contract on the house!!! We will be closing on November 30!!! I am so excited. I will most definitely miss this house and our neighbors but it is going to be so good to live in the burg where our life really happens. We are going to be renting for a while and have found seriously the perfect house. It even has huge fenced in yard for Hayes.

So that's all the news for now. Soon I'll be able to say we've officially moved and I've started setting up little Grady's room! Fun times!