We had a wonderful Christmas! We headed up to KC to stay with Jason's sister Thursday night and then off early Friday morning to Omaha. It was really nice to break up the trip and spend a little time with the nephews. Friday we got up to Omaha finished up some shopping then took it easy that night. Ellie opened up a couple of gifts so she could get some more practice in for Christmas morning really I think it was Grandma that couldn't wait to give her some gifts. Saturday night was Christmas Eve at my Dad's side. Santa arrived and Ellie wanted no part of it. She cried so hard she even held her breath for a few seconds. Christmas morning we woke up and opened up tons of gifts. Ellie did so well opening up all her gifts. It didn't take her as long as anticipated but she's into sharing so every piece of paper ripped off she had to give to someone. Christmas afternoon we headed to my mom's side for lunch and more gifts. My sister flew in Christmas day so I only got to see her and her little guy for just a few hours. We exchanged gifts quick because we needed to get back for Christmas in Wichita. This December has been so busy that I really can't believe Christmas is over and we are about to start a new year. Merry Belated Christmas and Happy New Year to all!

My practice gift that I opened from Grandma.

Helping mommy put tags on the gifts

Not a fan of Uncle Gary, I mean Santa

Love my new Cabbage Patch

Crawling on cousin Alex's gift

Ellie with cousin Connor and Owen

First time with Santa

Every year Jason's work puts on a kids Christmas party. We've always heard about how many kids were there and how much fun it was. Many coworkers of his over the years have said to come even with out kids but how could we. The holiday's were hard enough let alone going to a kids party and seeing year after year what we were missing out on. Well this year we were finally able to go and take Ellie. I felt like it was Christmas for me this morning, I was so excited. We were so excited to go that we left a little early and we're the first to arrive and see Santa. Ellie got right up on Santa's lap. Her eyes got a little red like she wanted to cry but she looked right at him and took her toy. How fun it will be to have this part of our holiday tradition.

It's been a busy week. School is coming to an end getting ready for finals and graduation on December 8. I think I'm going to try and fit in boards before Christmas so I can sit back and enjoy the holiday's. I can't wait to put the books away and spend all my time with Miss Ellie........and Jason. It's been a long 3 years of studying and missing out on things.

We found out we are having another GIRL!! We thought for sure it was a boy so we were a little surprised but not dissapointed. It's so exciting that Ellie will have a little playmate and friend. I love that I have a sister and I think many would agree that there is no better friend than a sister.

We noticed on Wednesday that Ellie has a sharp little bitty white spot on her gums. A tooth...Finally! It explains why she's been a bit fussy the last couple weeks. She has started eating more table foods. We tried some pancakes and toast this week and she loved it. She's not a fan of whole peas, she gags a bit but gotta have her veggies. The hardest part about feeding her more things is she still has her cow's milk allergy so she can't have any casseroles with cheese, or cream soups. We've tried to re-introduce milk products to her but she immediately broke out and became congested. The Dr. said to just wait until she is one year old and try again.

Last night we took her to her first indoor soccer game. The Wings haven't had a team since 2001 and recently started back up here in Wichita. There were two little boys sitting behind us that kept her entertained. Ellie sat so good, never fussed and stayed awake until 11 o'clock last night. We all had a great time.

Today we are heading down to Jason's grandparents house for their Thanksgiving. I think there might be about 40-50 people all in their little farm house. You would think we were staying the night with all the stuff we had to pack for Ellie. Toys, food, big blanket for her to play on. I had to bring the bumbo so she had a place to sit and eat.

9 months

Today Ellie turned 9 months old. We had a busy day of pictures and her doctor's appointment. She weighed 18.2lbs (50%) and 28" long (75%). The day started out a little rough with her waking up 3 times last night and crying for several hours. She would only sleep for an hour or so then up crying again. I couldn't figure out if she had a tummy ache or if it was her teeth. She still hasn't broke her first tooth so I know that's coming soon. Well this morning answered my question. The poor girl was a bit constipated. Being up all night made for a cranky girl most of the day. I'm used to having a sweet little angel that rarely cries or gets upset. So far she has been in bed for an hour so fingers crossed tonight goes better than last night.

I also want to share some news. We are expecting #2 in April. I've been waiting to share this because I have a few friends that are still trying and didn't want to upset them. Although I know they are happy for us, I've been in there shoes and it still hurts. After 6 IVF/FET's this time came the all natural way. I was lucky to find out so early so I could get on Lovenox before miscarrying. So far everything is going well and we will find out on Wed what we are having.

Happy Halloween

Ellie's first Halloween is coming to an end. It started out on Saturday night carving pumpkins with Nana and Papa. She wasn't real sure what to think about the big pumpkins but soon realized she was a bit scared of them. We cut the lids off and let her play with those and it seemed to help a bit. Still she didn't want much to do with them but she sat long enough so I could get a couple pictures.

Today she wore a "My first Halloween" bib that grandma got her, to the babysitters. She hasn't been feeling well and she spit up most of her morning bottle all over her first Halloween outfit. She put on a second outfit and this afternoon the same thing, she spit up all over that one. By 3:30 when I picked her up she was in just a diaper. Luckily it was about 75 today so she was happy to go home with no clothes on. I got most of her trick or treating costume on before Jason got home but he helped with the main part of her lady bug. She looked so cute.

We only went to Nana and Papa's house and then headed home to hand out candy. We had plans to hit a couple houses but with her not feeling well I didn't want her out much.

Oh and one thing that she started over the weekend is motioning to come here. I'm guessing that she is trying to say hi or goodbye but has it backwards. Too cute

Sick baby

Poor Miss Ellie has got some yuck that has been going around the community. She started out a couple days ago with a low grade fever and this horrendous cough or should I say bark. She seems fine playing and smiling still but when she gets real active she gets short of breath and kinda wheezy. I took her into the doctor yesterday and he gave me some oral Albuterol to help with these episodes. She seems to be better today. I'm enjoying her taking extra long naps and sleeping thru the night. I hope the night routine stays the same I think both Jason and I could get used to that. Well sounds like she is up from her 3 hr morning nap so better run.

I know... I know it's been forever and I believe I said that on my last post 2 months ago. I have been just so busy with school and now Ellie is crawling and pulling up on everything which is needing a lot of my attention so we don't end up with too many bruises.

I look at her and can hardly believe she is 8 months old already. She is babbling all the time but no actual first word yet. Although Grandma and Grandpa thought she said da da but Jason won't believe it until she says it at him. She's getting faster at crawling but I think she would really like to just forget about that and go right to walking. She's getting brave pulling herself up on things and starting to let go. We've had a couple spills but nothing that a little smooch from mom wont fix.

We headed up to Omaha last weekend for my birthday and to watch some Husker football. To bad they lost but it was still fun hanging out with family. My sister was able to come in town with her little guy Alex. He is 2 months old and such a little cutie. My cousin brought her baby who is only 5 weeks older than Ellie. They played so well together, standing up and banging there hands on chairs to make noise. They were both up until midnight and with little to no napping that evening. Let's just say Ellie was a little cranky on the way home.

Ellie and 2nd cousin Madelyn

Ellie and Alex

Although I went to Aldi's today and bought 3 pumpkins for $2.49 each. This weekend I think we may take Ellie to a pumpkin patch to pick out her first pumpkin. There is a pumpkin patch not far from our house and I think I need some pics of her in a field of pumpkins.

I know it's been awhile and I'm trying to think even where to start. Ellie turned 6 months on Aug 4th. She weighed 17lbs (75%) and was 27" long (90%). She isn't crawling yet but getting very close. She's very good at scooting to where she wants to go. She is starting to get a little more balance. The other day she sat up by herself for about 10 min playing with her hair brush.

We had our first family photos with Ellie taken on Aug 6th. We should be getting those back any day now. I've seen a few teaser photos and they're all really good. The photographer said to meet her downtown. The address sounded familiar but I was unsure exactly where it was at. When I turned onto the street where we were meeting I realized it was where we had our wedding reception 5 years ago.

August 11th we started our trip to Chicago to surprise my sister for her 30th birthday. We left Thursday night and headed up to Omaha, stayed the night at my parents house and then Friday morning. Jason, Ellie, Me, Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa and Grandpa all piled into Grandpa's Suburban and drove to Chicago. It took about 8.5 hours to get there but with that many people all riding together potty breaks take a little longer than normal. We had a great time. Finally got to meet my nephew Alex. What a little cutie he is. It's crazy how little he is up next to Ellie. We got lots of pictures of the cousins together. It was a fun weekend and Katie was so surprised to see us all.

My mom came down last weekend and scrapbooked from 5-midnight with a friend of mine. We were feeling so creative I think we could have kept cropping for another 4-5 more hours. I'm really trying to get Ellie's book caught up. I'm only up to March at this point. I guess I shouldn't have taken a billion photos the first couple months of her life. Once I get caught up to this summer it shouldn't be as bad. I've already slowed down on the picture taking.

School started back up this last Monday. So ready for this semester to be over with. I'm ready to get back to just going to work and not having to spend my evening studying. Our pinning ceremony will be December 8th so really only months and I will be done. If I ever say I want to go back to school please don't let me.

6 months

Thought we would share a couple of new things Ellie has been doing. She will be 6 months old tomorrow so this week we started her on some green beans and rice for dinner and did one night of banana. Surprisingly she loved the green beans but gagged with the banana. If it were me it would be the opposite. I think the food in the evening is helping her sleep a little better. The last 3 nights she has gone back to sleeping 8 hours. I could really get used to that again. I want to make some baby food for her and thought I would be using fresh veggies from my parents garden but with the heat they don't have much. For now I'm going to have to buy from the farmers market or grocery store.

A couple months ago we bought her this walker. It's amazing to watch her progression from week to week. When we first bought it just one of her big toes touched the ground and she would move just a few inches. With in a couple weeks she was flat footed and moving a bit more. Now she is cruising all over the place and is able to back her self up out of a corner.

new pics of nephew

Wanted to post some pics of nephew Alex. I'm dying to meet him and give him tons of smooches. I think my sister has plans to come home with him at Thanksgiving so until then we will be emailing pictures of the kiddos. Wish we lived a bit closer, I would head up some weekend before school starts.

I've been working on this fun t-shirt project with my cousin. She is the most talented & crafty person I know. Would die to have some of her creativity. She has come up with this adorable t-shirt idea of "Save the Hooters" I told you back a few post's ago that my college roommate has breast cancer. I thought I would sell t-shirts for $12 and $3 of each shirt would be donated to help with her fund raising. On the right hand side of my blog there is a paypal button for you to order.

The t-shirts will be charcoal heather gray with two shades of pink. Light pink for the owls and a bit darker for the ribbon.

* Sorry I can't send to individuals it would be too costly but for the ones who know her and want to purchase a t-shirt arrangements can be made to pick up in cities listed.

Nephew born this morning!!

**update-- I have a photo

This morning my sister gave birth to a healthy little boy at 9:50am.

Alexander William
7lbs 2oz
20 inches

Both are doing great. Wish I could be there. It takes me back to the day Ellie was born almost 6 months ago and how exciting that day was for us. I don't have pictures but I guess he has just a little bit of hair. Can't wait to meet him.

Well our vacation is coming to an end. Friday morning we left the house at 4am, crazy I know but Ellie would sleep most of the trip and we wanted to avoid traffic in OKC. We went to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing in Ft. Worth. We did a short tour and watched them print some money. We had some prior warning that it would take awhile to get from Ft. Worth to Dallas so that's why we chose to go early morning well I don't think it really mattered. It took us 2 hours from there to our hotel. Friday night we met Robbie and Herb for dinner at Cheddars...Yummy! It was quite different this time doing dinner with them as last year we were just hoping we would be pregnant and this year we had Miss Ellie to show off.



Didn't bring Ellie's bath tub so we made due and I think she had a good time in the sink.

Saturday we went to Frisco Freedom Fest. There was a soccer game and lots to do down in the square. We stayed for fireworks, Ellie was awake until they started then she fell asleep and slept through all the noise of the fireworks. Then it was off to bed because we had a big day at Canton. Met Robbie and Herb at 7am and then off we went to one of the largest flea-markets. It was larger than what I had envisioned. Didn't buy much just took it all in and would love to go back when it's a little cooler and after I get a full time job.

Today Ellie is 5 months old. We were killing time before IKEA opened and went to Buy Buy Baby to see what that store was like. Well this sweet girl came around the store looking for baby's to have their picture taken. She said we got a free 8x10 for being a new customer so we went for it. Ellie was happy at the time and took some pretty cute pics. Hard to choose just one so we bought a small package.

We should be on the road by noon tomorrow, not ready to go home but ready to see Sophie. Miss the little pooch.

Busy Summer

Sorry It's been awhile since I've posted. I would have never thought that summer would feel busier than when school was in. I can't say exactly what we've been doing..; nothing big, just running here and there. Jason's grandma was here for awhile in the hospital so in the evenings we spent our time up there visiting with her. She thinks the world of Ellie, loves talking to her and making her laugh.

Yesterday was our 5 year anniversary. When we were on our honeymoon we said we would make a trip back to Anna Maria but plans changed and it took a little longer than we thought to start our family. Although I would love to be sitting on the beach this weekend I wouldn't trade Ellie for anything. We might just have to wait and go in a couple years but someday we will get back.

Tonight we had a wedding to go to. I had a few dresses to choose from in her closet, so hard making a decision on what to have her wear. The girl has so many clothes! I ended up putting her in a little dress that my mom got for her on Zulily (love that website). She did so good, took a couple short naps and was happy the rest of the time.

We have a trip scheduled for 4th of July weekend. Heading down to the Dallas area. Just can't get enough of the place. Hoping to do dinner with Robbie and Herb, do a little shopping, go to a soccer game and watch some fireworks.



Oh and recently Ellie discovered her feet. She makes it near impossible to to change her diaper in a timely manner when she has a hold of her toes. This afternoon I caught her with one toe in her mouth. Too funny to watch her laugh and smile at her feet.

4 months

Friday was a busy day...shots, pictures and hanging out with our nephews. Ellie had her 4 month Dr. visit, weighing in at 14lbs (50%), measuring 25" long (75%) and the Dr. even commented on her large feet. He said plan on her being tall. Poor little thing got her shots and screamed for a few min. I read online that nursing them after their shots helps comfort and calm them so I tried that this time and it seemed to help a little. We've been doing the Tylenol thing and she has been fever free and not really even fussy. She is such the trooper. Saturday was enjoyable, Jason finally had a Saturday off. He has worked every Saturday since the 1st of the year minus when Ellie was born and Easter weekend. It's amazing how long the weekend feels when he is home with us. Today we are heading down to Jason's family reunion, excited to show Ellie off. She will meet her great grandparents on Jason's dad side for the first time today. It's going to be a hot one, got sunscreen and sun hat packed for her.

Memorial Day Weekend

We had quite the busy holiday weekend. Ellie and I headed to Omaha on Thursday afternoon. It ended up taking us an extra hour to get there and not because of Ellie but there was a wreck. A semi tipped over and caused traffic to be backed up for a little over an hour. Ellie was hungry during this so I was able to reach around to the back and give her a cold bottle. Not how she likes it but it satisfied her for the time. Friday morning I picked up my sister from the airport, did a little shopping and ate at my favorite Chinese restaurant Mings...Yummy!! Went home and worked on the cake and finishing touches for my sister's baby shower that mom and I hosted for her. (did not make the cookies, Sweets by Steph again) Saturday morning before her shower I wanted to paint her belly since painting mine last October was so much fun. She chose a soccer ball since that is her love.

After the shower we ran home to rest for just a bit and headed back out to the Missouri Valley Champ baseball game. Wichita State lost but it was still a beautiful night for a game. Sunday another busy day, we went to a girls swap at my cousin's house. It was her 3rd annual, it's like a mini garage sale but no money exchanged. You bring some items and food and the people who bring food get first dibs on the items. Any items left over get donated to a church. After the swap we had a going away party to attend for my cousin who got a summer internship out in California. Got home late Sunday night from that, pack up and headed to Kansas City Monday morning to see my college roommate.

Ellie did all this with me and was such a trooper. I think she was as tired as I was this morning. She slept 8 1/2 hours and I got her up at 5 to nurse her and back to sleep she went. I think she would have slept until 7:30 or 8 if I could have let her but had to get her up and to the sitter.

**Want to share a little snack that was brought to the girls swap.

Take a Nilla wafer, spread plain or any flavor cream cheese on the wafer then place a slice of strawberry on top... delicious!!!!

Ellie Rolls Over

Ellie has been sleeping through the night for some time now. Occasionally she wakes up for just a bit but goes right back to sleep. Well this has all been in our bedroom in the bassinet. I looked at her the other day laying in the bassinet and realized she is way too big for that... I mean she is almost 4 months old. So last night was her first night in her crib. I was starting to wonder if buying that beautiful crib was even worth it...It was. She slept better than I did. She woke up once, I nursed her a bit and she went back to sleep. Jason set up a web cam over her crib so I am able to check on her with an app on my phone. I just laid there and watched her sleep for some time. She is getting so big, growing so fast I just can't believe it.

so thankful to be a mom

What a wonderful day it has been, my first Mother's Day. I have waited so long to be able to celebrate this day and I have cherished every moment of it. Jason and Ellie took me shopping to buy some flowers, we took some family photos and had pizza for lunch minus the cheese on my half, but it was still really good. I still think about all the women out there that dream of being a mommy someday and how hard this day is for them. Hugs to all of you.

3 Months (05/04/2011)

Here is our little sweetie pie all grown up! 3 months old now and holding her head high. She has not rolled over yet but is almost there. Time sure is moving fast, we are just trying to soak it all up and enjoy it!

She found her thumb

Today was Easter and we went to eat with family in Omaha. Today was also Ellie's first day of finding her thumb. She has gotten her hand in her mouth before, but today it was full on thumb...no messing around as you can see!



Here is Ellie hanging out in the chair with her little dress and headband that I made her. She got so much stuff today from everyone. Grandma found my old stuffed bunny, and a Easter figurine that I had. She also got her a headband that makes her look like a flower...too cute. She got some some toys and clothes from her great grandma, aunts and cousin. We had a lot of fun hanging out with everyone today.



Although I had a wonderful time with family this weekend my mind was on a friend a lot. I was shock to find out Friday that a friend of mine and old roommate from college was diagnosed with stage III breast cancer last week at the age of only 32. So on this Easter weekend she had her first chemo treatment, not the way I'm sure she thought she would be spending Easter this year. She needs prayers so if you could please say one for her and her family.

Pillowcase dress

This was my first attempt at sewing something that has to actually fit. I have no problems hemming things or sewing my scrapbook papers but a dress now that's a different story. I was having problems finding an Easter dress for Ellie. I didn't want anything too formal or expensive. I took a whole day about two weeks ago and went from store to store looking. The few I liked didn't come in her little size. Even a 3 month was too big. So I talked with a good friend and she suggested a pillowcase dress. I found a pattern online and went for it the other night. It could have been a little wider at the top so I could gather it a little more around the neck but it's adorable on and even more important...it fits! Will post pics with it on after Easter.

2 months old already

I would have to say last night was the first time she slept through the night. She slept from 10-5. What a great way to celebrate her two month b-day! Hopefully she continues to do this but if not 5 hrs a night is what she's been sleeping is fine with me.

We've decided to put a fence in for Sophie and someday Ellie when she is up and running around. So today was day one. It was hot and windy but Jason was out at 7:30am digging fence post holes. Jason's parents came over about 10 to help out but I wanted to get Ellie's 2 month pictures taken so what better way to get out of helping for just a bit. My mother in-law and I headed to the mall to be the first ones there at 11. Ellie was so good for the first 7 pics then she started to get fussy. We called it quits and chose from those. These are not the professional ones but couldn't resist taking more when we got home because she looked so darn cute today. She's starting to sit up better on her own which makes taking these pics much easier.

Yesterday was Ellie's 2 month Dr. appointment. She passed everything with flying colors and was 50% in weight coming in just over 10 lbs. So my little miss chunk a monk isn't as chunky as I thought which is fine she's right were she needs to be. Everyone at the office just can't get enough of her. A couple of the nurses know our story so they stop in to say hi and see how she's doing. Dr. Y also struggled to have their second child so he knows what a true miracle she is. She got 3 shots today, both mom and baby survived. I also took in my kidney stone that I passed on Sunday afternoon...yes 3 weeks later here it came. Of course it came with a little pain but at least it's gone. Dr. Y is going to send the one from Sunday and then also the one from last year off to see what type of stone each are and then hopefully get me on something so we can put a stop to these things.

7 weeks today

A little update on Ellie's rash. I took dairy and Peanut butter out of my diet last week and about 2 days later she was like a new baby. Happy, and about half the amount of dirty diapers also her rash on her face cleared up almost immediately. I have so much milk stored up in the freezer that I hate to toss it all so yesterday I nursed her but then gave her just one bag of the breast milk from Feb and she was sooo fussy, gassy and I noticed her face broke out and her bottom was sore with a rash again. So no more using the frozen milk. I'm going to see if I can donate my milk to the hospital, I hate to throw it all away. I'm going to have to supplement a bit of formula to get me caught up again.

Last weekend I went home so everyone could meet Ellie. We had my dad's side of the family over on Friday night and my mom's side over on Saturday night. Ellie got to meet her new cousin Madelyn. Madelyn seemed to really like Ellie as she wanted to hold hands all night long...too cute. It was good to see everyone and glad they could all come to meet her before she got too big.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

1 month today

I can't believe Ellie is 1 month old today, how fast time has gone. Almost 1 month to the day and I had to make a trip to the hospital. This time not for labor but for a kidney stone. Last night about 7pm I had this terrible flank pain and I just kept thinking this can't be another one. This is my 4th episode of stones. Now that I'm able to compare the pain to labor I would much rather be in labor (up to 8cm) again than ever have another stone. I'm having to strain my urine so I can collect the stone. I have my last one so if I can get this one also my Dr. thinks we can get me on some kind of med to help prevent these from forming.

Ellie has changed so much already

It's amazing how fast they change. Some days I think she looks like me but the more she changes and gets a little older I think she looks a lot like her daddy. She is still a good little baby but we had a few sleepless nights last week. I think she was gassy those nights. We've tried the drops but not sure it helped any maybe made it worse?? I'm trying to watch what I eat so it doesn't make it any worse for her, but I think when she eats she gets a little too much air and the result is gas.

I'm so upset with the photography place, Baby Bloom, that took her photos the day after she was born in the hospital. They said I would have the CD in 7-10 days. We are going on a month this Friday and still no CD. The thing that upsets me most is that they won't return my calls. They have my money and I just want my pictures.

Thank You

I had these cookies made by Sweets By Steph www.facebook.com/sweetsbysteph for our RE that helped make our dream of having a family come true.

Happy Valentine's Day

I think Valentine's Day is a day of love and romance but also a day to rip everyone off. Jason sent me flowers one year to work and I about died when I found out how much he spent on them. I would much rather go to a nice dinner or relax at a spa then have him buy flowers on this day. Now if he really wants to get me flowers there are 351 days out of the year that he can choose to buy them on and save some cash....hint, hint.


I hope he isn't getting me anything because I didn't get him a gift. I think our gift of Ellie is enough for both of us.

Today Was My Due Date

Today Feb. 9 was my due date. Miss Ellie decided to come 5 days early which I'm so glad she did. She came right in between two snow storms and today wouldn't have been a fun day to try and make it to the hospital. We got 8" which for some isn't a lot but for us here in KS it's quite a bit. I played a little dress up today with Ellie taking lots of pics. She has changed so much just in these few days. She is perfect still eating and sleeping good. I think it's finally sinking in that we are parents and she is really our daughter.

She's Here!!!!

Ellie Lucille Williams was born this morning at 7:04am. She weighs 7lbs 14oz and is 20 inches long. Sara woke up this morning at about 12:30am and said she couldn't sleep and was having contractions about 10 minutes apart. About 1:00 am Sara got in the shower, because contractions got to about 6 minutes apart. We left the house for the hospital around 1:30am. When Sara was first checked in at the Hospital, which was at about 3:00am, she was 5-6 cm dialated. Still no Epidural. At about 5:00am she was measuring at about 8cm and contractions were coming pretty hard and fast. That's when the Epidural came. We were hoping to wait until Sara's mom and dad made it in from Omaha, but Ellie had other plans. They ended up getting here at about 8:15am or so. We both still can't believe she is actually here!