On Saturday, Mommy and Daddy worked around the house. Those two were like the energizer bunny that day. They moved stuff around and packed stuff for storage, Daddy mowed the grass, Mommy did laundry……it was crazy.

On Sunday, we went to mass and then to Baker to visit with Mama and Amigo. I hadn’t seen them in a while and I missed them. It was a very nice visit. Mama made a roast and boy did it smell good. As soon as these new teeth are ready, I’m ALL OVER that roast at her house! When we got home, we all took naps.

 

On Monday, Ms. Katrina had a surprise for Mommy – she painted my toenails iridescent pink. It was my first pedicure! Mommy LOVED it. Daddy did too! I felt like a real girly girl. It was a wonderful day and I got a very good report from Ms. Katrina when Mommy picked me up. 

 

 

Love,

 

 

Sami

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Monday, July 2, 2007 – Sunday, July 8, 2007

Hi everyone! Boy, have we had a busy week! Monday and Tuesday were pretty normal, but everything got exciting on Wednesday! In the morning, we drove to New Orleans so that Mommy and Daddy could weigh in for the last time. Daddy won the monthly prize (Uncle Michael won the overall prize)! Isn’t that great? Both Mommy and Daddy look GREAT – all of that exercise paid off! The weigh in was right before a HUGE party with all of my Patron cousins. It was great to see everyone – even VZ (Mommy’s cousin, Verna) and Uncle Steve (VZ’s husband) were here from California. We got to visit for a little while, but had to get back to Baton Rouge for our annual July 4^{th get together. Every year there is a party at the Camelot Club that Daddy and Mommy attend. This year, we had a great time because everyone got to come – Hunter and "Uncle" Chris (Hunter’s roommate), Mama and Amigo, GiGi and Pops, and Uncle Marc and Aunt Nikki. It was a blast….literally! I got to see my first fireworks ever! I couldn’t take my eyes off of those beautiful things. When you watch the fireworks from up at the club, you are almost eye level with them because it’s on the 21st floor of the building. It was AWESOME!!! Mommy and I sat right next to the window so I could see! If you noticed, I said that I actually got to see them. That means they let me stay up super late (at least it’s super late for me)! I took a "power nap" from about 7:00-7:30p.m., then I was up until about 10:45p.m. Can you believe it? I was still ready to party! The only thing that stopped me was when Mommy put me in the car and it was dark – once I wasn’t around people or noise anymore, and I was in a dark setting, it knocked me RIGHT out! I can’t wait until next time! I love}

 

July 4th! Gooooo America!!!!

On Thursday, Mommy and I packed for the weekend. That was a task in itself. Evidently, packing for 3 people is tough to do when you have to bring a baby chair and a pack and play for me to sleep in. I also have to have space for my diaper bag and my duffle bag that holds my clothes and bath stuff and my DVD’s – not to mention my bag for my baby monitors, sleep sound machine, bottles, formula, rice cereal and stuff – not to mention backseat space for my carseat. Then Mommy packed a bag for herself and Daddy – they are sharing a bag these days. You should have seen us trying to get all of that in Mommy’s Honda – we looked like sardines!

On Friday, Mommy and I went to lunch with Aunt Jaimi and Zac (handsome fella), Ms. Kelley, Ms. Denise and Ms. Jan. They all work at school with Mommy. They were really nice. That Mexican food they were eating sure did smell good. I can’t wait to get my hands on some of those refried beans – YUMMY! Mommy says my Daddy makes them better than the restaurant though. Anyway, after that, we rushed home, packed up the car with all of our stuff, and headed out for Pierre Part to go to the Whitworth’s camp. They were out of town and offered for us to go spend the weekend at their camp since they wouldn’t be using it. We had a REALLY good time over there. We all took naps and relaxed. Both Daddy and Mommy said that they were taking a few days off from exercise and they’d start again on Monday. That way, they wouldn’t be worried about it on our weekend away. Mommy cooked on Friday night and Daddy cooked on Saturday night. I like that they take turns with stuff like that. It shows me how to share chores and responsibilities. Those guys worked well together in the kitchen. It was neat watching them put it all together. I think I’m gonna like cooking when I get bigger. Mommy says I can help them make things when I get a little older.

Today we drove back home. Mommy and Daddy got us unpacked, I ate and went to sleep. I guess we’ll get back to reality tomorrow with laundry day. It’ll be nice to get back to normal after all of the excitement from the past few days! I’ll check back with you later this week!

Love,

Sami

 

Friday, June 29, 2007

Saturday, June 30, 2007

Sunday, July 1, 2007

Hi everyone! GUESS WHAT!!!!!!! My doctor called today and told Mommy that I can discontinue my heart monitor!!!! We were all soooo excited! Now I have no strings attached! WOOO HOOOO!!!! I’m free! I’m free! You know what is extra cool about that? It’s also GiGi’s birthday! She said that was a great present! Mommy and I went to spend the night in Lafayette for her birthday. She didn’t know we were coming, so it was a double surprise for her.

We were supposed to come home on Saturday, but Daddy said for us to stay another night since it is her birthday weekend. So, we stayed on Saturday too. It was a very nice weekend because I got to spend a lot of time with GiGi and Pops and with Uncle Marc and Aunt Nikki. They came over on Friday, Saturday and Sunday to visit with us. I even got to stay up late!

On Sunday, Mommy and I came back home and had a surprise when we got here. Hunter and Uncle Chris were here to visit us. It was really good to see them because I had been a MAD baby for about half an hour because I was in the backseat by myself and I was in that dumb ol’ carseat. It wasn’t a pleasant ride home for anyone involved. As soon as I got home and saw my Daddy, Hunter, and Uncle Chris, I was cool a happy girl again. I love my "vacations" in Lafayette and Lockport, but it’s good to be home at the end of the weekend in my own bed. I miss my Daddy when we go too.

Anyway, after that happy and busy weekend, I’m going to sleep well tonight! I’ll check in later this week. Have a happy 4th of July! Don’t eat too many hot dogs and hamburgers!

Love,

Samantha

Monday, June 25, 2007-Thursday, June 28, 2007

Hi everyone! We’ve had a pretty regular week this week. On Monday, Mommy and I went to visit with Ms. Katrina. She is going to babysit me when Mommy gets back to work. I’m gonna meet with her a few more times with Mommy so I get used to her before I have to be with her all day by myself. She’s really nice and she has some cool toys that I can’t wait to get my hands on! She also has a daughter, Katelyn, that used to be one of Mommy’s cheerleaders. She’s in high school now – she’s really nice too!

Tuesday and Wednesday were pretty normal. We just hung around the house. We did do some grocery shopping on Wednesday and I was very good in the store. I’m not wild about hitting bumps in the shopping cart – we have to put my carseat over the handle and the part that is supposed to be for a child’s back so when we hit bumps, it shocks me and my eyes get REALLY big. It makes Mommy laugh. Once I see her laughing, I smile because I know everything is ok.

On Thursday, Mommy made some dinner to send to Hunter and "Uncle" Chris (Hunter’s roommate) at their apartment. I hope we get to go visit them again soon – I like going over there!

I’ll check in again after the weekend!

Love,

Sami

Friday, June 22, 2007

Saturday, June 23, 2007

Sunday, June 24, 2007

Hola! We had a great weekend! On Friday, Home Health came to my house to swap my monitor and do our monthly weigh in. I weigh 11 pounds, 10 ounces on their scale. On my download, I had 2 heart rate drops, but they weren’t "real" ones. One of them was when I was drinking my bottle. Some milk "went down the wrong way" and I coughed a lot which made the monitor think my heart was slow. The second time was almost the same except I coughed b/c I swallowed too much drool (doggone teeth moving). Anyway, just to be on the safe side, Dr. Schwartzenburg wants to keep me on the monitor and do a download in one week. Keep your fingers crossed that it’s a clean download and I can come off of this heart monitor!

Friday night, Mommy and Daddy went to dinner and "Auntie" Pam (a friend of Mommy and Daddy) came to babysit me. We had a great time! She told me that once I get off of the heart monitor I can go spend the night at her house! Her boys, Trevor and Rudy will keep me occupied and spoil me rotten! I’m not against that. Heehee

On Saturday, Mommy and I went to Lockport for the night. We slept at Maw Maw Jones’ house. GiGi and Pops were there too! I went to Ms. Sylvia and Ms. Angela’s house for a visit. That is where Mommy spent MANY, MANY, MANY days as a little girl. They lived next door when Mommy was a little girl like me. They are in the photo gallery! Ms. Angela said to come back one day and they’d fill me in on what Mommy was like as a little girl.

On Sunday, I got to see some of my cousins at a birthday party. The birthday party theme was mermaids and you’ll have to look at the photo gallery to see what they did to me this time! I don’t know where they come up with this stuff.

On the way back to Baton Rouge, GiGi rode in the back seat with me and Pops followed us. We stopped in Thibodaux at my other great grandma’s for a short visit, then came on home. It was nice having GiGi there because I had someone to play with during the times when I was awake. If I have someone back there with me, I don’t fuss as much. It keeps me occupied and it makes me forget I’m strapped into that mean ol’ carseat.

Whew – what an exciting weekend! I missed my Daddy though. I’m pooped!

Talk to you soon!

Love,

Sami

Monday, June 18, 2007

Tuesday, June 19, 2007

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Hi everyone! We’re having a really good week! On Monday, Mommy and I did our usual laundry. Mommy and Daddy switched off in the evening so that they could exercise after all of the food they ate on Father’s Day. They said that they haven’t eaten an entire meal like that in 2 months. They also said it was definitely worth it.

I didn’t sleep very well on Monday night, so on Tuesday, I was a little grumpy. Daddy was in my room on and off from midnight to 2:00am. Mommy was in there on and off from 2:00 am until about 4:00am. I slept until about 5:30am then Daddy gave me my bottle. Mommy and I fell asleep in the rocking chair from 8:30-10:30am – it was a nice nap. I think we both needed it. Tonight, I started to mix squash in my cereal at dinner time. I hope it works with my system because it sure is tasty! We’re gonna try it a few more days to see if I react to it the way I did the carrots. That was not pleasant – I hope it doesn’t happen again.

I had a MUCH better night on Tuesday night! On Wednesday, Mommy and I were supposed to road trip to Lockport, but it didn’t happen. We were gonna "do lunch" with Ms. Shelley and Ms. Monique (some of Mommy’s friends), but it was cancelled. We’ll have to make a trip another day.

On Thursday, Mommy and I strolled outside in the shade for a few minutes in the morning and twice in the afternoon – it was HOT out there! I kept getting antsy inside and would calm down each time she brought me out. After my dinner, she carried me around in the sling and I fell asleep. She wasn’t too happy because she couldn’t give me a bath after all of that being outside today. Oh well, I’ll catch up on that bath tomorrow!

I’ll check back in at the end of the weekend! Have a good one!

Love,

Samantha

Tuesday, June 12, 2007 to Sunday, June 17, 2007

Hi everyone! I have a lot to tell you! Remember when I said that I liked carrots? Evidently, they don’t like me. They made me REALLY sick on Tuesday and Wednesday night. No more carrots for me! We’ve switched back to plain rice cereal for a few days. I think we’ll start either squash or sweet potato tomorrow.

On Thursday, I went to Dr. Schwartzenburg for my 6 month shots. I am 23-1/4 inches tall and weigh 11 pounds 8 ounces. He said I’m doing very well. He said I’m teething, but the teeth are still way up high – they were probably just shifting. He said I’d probably feel lousy for a few days and then fine for a while and the cycle would repeat until the teeth come out. He said it would probably be a while though. Daddy and Mommy talked to him about the carrot issue – he said that they could try the carrots again if they wanted to but to wait until I’m at least 1. He said it’s ok to try foods, and that they were doing the right thing by doing the same thing for a few days at a time to see if I can digest them properly. My parents ROCK – they are doing the right things for me! I love those guys!

On Friday, Mommy and I went to Dee Dee’s camp for lunch. We got to visit with Dee Dee for a while and then Ms. Pat, Ms. Blaze and Mr. Buddy came over too. They all used to work with Mommy at her first school, St. Louis. That was fun. I’m glad we got to go. Mommy was very thankful that we were in the car at nap time on the way there and on the way back. heehee

On Saturday, we went to see my brother’s new apartment! It’s WAY cool! The good thing is…..it’s not very far from my house! Mommy and Daddy said that maybe we can go swimming over there one day this summer. I can’t wait!

After we went to Hunter’s, we went to Target to get some prizes for his apartment and to get me an exersaucer. When we got home, Daddy put it together and it looks like BIG FUN!!! After my bath, I got to try it out – wouldn’t you know I’m too short!!! I still have to grow about an inch or inch and a half before my feet can touch the bottom. I am bummin’ hard that I can’t get in that lovely thing for a while. It has all kinds of cool gadgets to play with all around it and the middle swivels so I can get to all of them! I CAN’T WAIT!!!!!

On Sunday, we gave Daddy his Father’s Day gifts – some wireless speakers for the living room and a black LSU belt. He liked his prizes! We went to mass EARLY in the morning. I had just had a bottle and it was time for my morning small nap. I was too busy looking around to fall asleep at first and I got very antsy. Eventually, I fell asleep, but not before Mommy had to get up and walk in the back of church with me. When I woke up, I started my breakfast and GiGi and Pops showed up. Not long after that, Hunter, Mama and Amigo, and Marc and Nikki came over. We bar-b-qued and hung out to celebrate Father’s Day. It was a GREAT time, but I’m pooped. I’m off to bed!

Check out my pictures! Mommy and Daddy updated them. There’s one of me kicked back watching my shows, one of me with Dee Dee, and one of me with Daddy for Father’s Day!

I’ll write later this week!

Love,

Samantha

Friday, June 8, 2007

Saturday, June 9, 2007

Sunday, June 10, 2007

Monday, June 11, 2007

He everyone! I have some very good news! On Friday, I went to the neurologist, Dr. Holloman. She checks to see if I am where I need to be developmentally. I was able to do all of the things that she tried on me, such as grabbing, blinking, pulling, tracking, muscle movement and reflexes. She used the word FABULOUS and said that I am advanced for my (adjusted) age. Adjusted age means that they use my due date rather than my actual birth day. So, in figuring my skills, they use 4 months instead of 6 months because even though I wasn’t in the womb anymore, I still get those 2 months to grow developmentally. Dr. Holloman is very pleased with me and told Daddy and Mommy that so far we have nothing to worry about. She wants to see me again in October. I have to go to her for my first 2-3 years so that they can see if I’ll need speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy, etc. Isn’t that great news?

On Saturday, Mommy went to a wedding and Daddy and I stayed at the house. We really didn’t do too much. There is something new though – today they started mixing my rice cereal with carrots. The first bite confused me, but I kinda liked it. After that, I started to munch down that food. Evidently, carrots are quite tasty! Rice cereal is SOOOO much better with veggies in it! Mommy says we’re going to do carrots for a few days so they can see if I "get along" with them. After that, we’re going to try squash, sweet potato, and peas. I heard her say that we’ll do veggies first b/c if we do fruit first, I won’t like the veggies. That’s messed up! Why would they keep the good stuff til last? Something is definitely wrong with that picture. I’ll keep you posted on my likes and dislikes. Daddy and Mommy said that if I’m like them, there isn’t too much I won’t like. heehee

On Sunday, we had family day and just spent time together. It was a nice, comfy and quiet day.

Monday was our usual laundry day. It was pretty boring, but that’s fine with me!

I’ll catch up with you later this week. Mommy says she’ll try to get some new pictures up next time!

Have a great week! Tah tah for now –

Love,

Sami

June 2-7, 2007

I had a great few days! On Saturday and Sunday, Daddy and I hung around the house and just got to spend time together. That was nice. It’s been a while since it’s been just the two of us. He’s a great guy! I love him a lot.

On Monday and Tuesday while Daddy was working, GiGi and Pops came over to babysit me. I like that too. GiGi talks to me and makes funny faces and noises. It makes me giggle. Pops calls me "Bubba" and it makes GiGi fuss him. He just does it to get her goat, I think.

On Wednesday, Mommy came home before lunch – she has a cold. So, all day she wore one of those painter masks around me. Those are not too pretty. I can’t wait until she can take that off.

On Thursday, we got some GREAT news! My pediatrician’s office called with the results of my latest heart monitor download – it was totally CLEAN!!!! That means that there were no apnea’s and no heart rate drops at all! My doctor is on vacation until Monday and they will give him the results then. Mommy and Daddy think that they will do one more download in 2 weeks…if that one is clean I’m coming off of that thing. However, we’ll see what the doctor says next week. I’ll keep you posted!

I’ll check back with you on Sunday or Monday. Have a great weekend!

Love,

Sami

Wednesday, May 30, 2007

Thursday, May 31, 2007

Friday, June 1, 2007

Hi everyone! I really don’t have much to report – it’s been a slow week.

On Wednesday, Mommy and I went to Wal Mart. The rest of the day was spent at home hanging out. I like my girl time with Mommy.

On Thursday, Mommy and I went to Hobby Lobby. That was the excitement for the day.

On Friday, Mommy was washing clothes and packing for her trip. She leaves tomorrow for the beach with her friends. She’ll be gone until Wednesday! You know what that means, don’t you…………Daddy and I are gonna PARTY!!!!! I might even get to stay up past 7:00pm! Woo Hoo! He’ll even give me extra milk in my bottle and let me wear whatever I want! YESSSSSSSSS!!!! I won’t have to wear dumb ol’ hats!

He’s staying with me Saturday and Sunday. On Monday, GiGi and Pops are coming so Daddy can go to work. Mommy will be back by noon on Wednesday.

I’ll get back with you after our party weekend! Talk to you then – I have to go rest up so I’ll be ready for our fun!

Love,

Sami

Tuesday, May 22, 2007

Wednesday, May 23, 2007

Thursday, May 24, 2007

Friday, May 25, 2007

Saturday, May 26, 2007

Sunday, May 27, 2007

Monday, May 28, 2007

Tuesday, May 29, 2007

Hi everyone! I have a lot to report since it’s been a while……

Last Tuesday, Ms. Kari from Home Health came to check on me. She said I weigh 10.2 pounds and that I am 22 inches long! Of course, she told me how big I’m getting and how cute I am. She ended up staying to visit for almost an hour. We think she’s really nice. Mommy spent the afternoon getting things together for our trip to Lafayette.

On Wednesday and Thursday night, Mommy and I spent the night in Lafayette with GiGi and Pops. Daddy had a conference in New Orleans, so, we took advantage of his being out of town and skeedaddled ourselves! It was fun because I got to spend a lot of time with them AND I got to see my godparents too!

On Friday, I finally got to see Daddy again – I missed that guy! We hung out at the house that night and had some family time. After I fell asleep, Hunter came by. I was NOT happy that I missed his visit. I haven’t been able to visit with him in a while, and I don’t like that.

On Saturday, we all rode to Thibodaux to see Aunt Verna and Uncle Noel. Daddy drove and Mommy sat in the back with me. I don’t mind riding as much when someone is in the back with me. If nobody is in the back, I tend to pitch a fit sometimes. If I can fall asleep, it’s all good, but when I’m not sleepy I get bored and a good cry seems necessary. I hafta let them know what I’m feeling…..it’s not good to hold stuff in! heehee

On Sunday, we went to get Daddy some new shoes and then we went to Barnes and Noble because Mommy and Daddy said I need some Spanish books to go with my English books. I love my books – Mommy even said that I look at the right side of the book when she turns the page whether she points to it or not. Evidently, that’s a big deal. I don’t get why, I just know she’s fired up about that. Just wait until she figures out that I can turn the pages on my own, I just like to let them do it…..it keeps them on their toes! Heehee

On Monday (HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY), Daddy went biking in the morning, and Mommy went shopping in the afternoon then walking in the evening. It was pretty low key for a holiday. That suits me just fine though. I don’t like the carseat too much so I like staying home these days. Mommy says it’s easier that way.

On Tuesday, my cousins Olimpia (Tita) and Scarlett came to see me. They were really nice! Mommy took pictures of us visiting (as usual). I hope they come back soon to see me.

Have a great week and I’ll check back later this week.

Love,

Samantha

Thursday, May 17, 2007

Friday, May 18, 2007

Saturday, May 19, 2007

Sunday, May 20, 2007

Monday, May 21, 2007

Hola! It’s been a while since I’ve written because I’ve been a busy girl! On Thursday, Mommy and I didn’t do too much. We knew that we had a big weekend ahead of us.

On Friday, Mommy and I went to the St. Louis 8th grade graduation to see Trevor and Mommy’s 8th grade cheerleaders graduate! I met a WHOLE LOT of people while we were there. Congratulations to Trevor and the girls! I also got to meet Rudy ("Aunt" Pam’s son, Trevor’s brother) – he kept me occupied throughout the mass. Thank goodness he was there because we were in the church for about 3 hours and I would have been restless if he hadn’t been there. Thanks Rudy!

That night, I moved from the bassinet to my crib. I didn’t know what to do with all of those polka dots – I just kept staring at them. I like ‘em though. I am used to the way Daddy and Mommy had my bassinet mattress inclined a little, and they didn’t do that in my crib. So, I started off like I normally do, but I scooted myself up to the "top" of my crib – Daddy took a picture. Check it out!

On Saturday, we went to a graduation party at the Whitworth’s for their daughter, Erin. It was nice – it wasn’t too hot and it wasn’t at all cold. There was a little breeze blowing every now and then. We didn’t stay too late because I had to eat my big meal, and my bedtime is right after that. With all of that food (rice cereal and a bottle), it’s hard to stay awake!

On Sunday, Mommy and Pops went to the jewelry show in New Orleans. Daddy and I went to Ms. Lisa Williams graduation party in St. Rose. He said I was VERY good while we were there. Guess what?! On the way home, we met up with Mommy on the interstate. What are the chances of that?

This weekend, I was evidently a party girl! I’m starting early!

On Monday, Mommy and I hung out. We were pooped from all of the celebrating this weekend!

I’ll check in later this week!

Adios,

Samantha

Tuesday, May 15, 2007

Wednesday, May 16, 2007

I just have a few quick things to tell you today!

Do you realize that I was 5 months old yesterday? I can’t believe how quickly time passes…..pretty soon I’ll be driving! (just kidding – I have to learn to sit up first)

I had a milestone Tuesday afternoon……..I was able to eat cereal from a spoon! I didn’t really like it at first, but by the end of the bowl, I was a pro! Check out the pictures!

On Wednesday, Mommy and I stayed in so she could finish her thank you notes. It was pretty boring for me. I did get to see my favorite shows though – the Backyardigans and Wonder Pets. I love those guys! Blues Clues is also one of my favorites. Mommy doesn’t let me sit in front of the tv all day though. She says it’s not good for me. She would rather read to me or play on the floor with me. I like that a lot, but I also like my tv! So, I get excited when I get to see my shows. In the evenings sometimes, they watch my Baby Einstein DVD’s with me. That’s fun too – it’s a great way to unwind at the end of the day. In the evening after work, Ms. Susan came by to see me. She’s nice. I like the way she smiles at me all the time.

I’ll write more later this week!

Love,

Sami

Friday, May 11, 2007

Saturday, May 12, 2007

Sunday, May 13, 2007

Monday, May 14, 2007

Hi everyone! This weekend was really exciting. Friday night we really didn’t do much. We just hung out and Hunter came over to mow the grass. Mommy went to the store to get stuff for Sunday.

On Saturday, we got the house finished for tomorrow’s celebration. Daddy gave Mommy her Mother’s Day gift a little early…..a new camera! You only THOUGHT she took a lot of pictures before, now she has a camera that actually works! I guess I’d better get my cheeks used to smiling! We practiced all night with the new camera. Even Daddy got in on the action!

Here’s the exciting part of the weekend! Not only was Sunday Mother’s Day, but it was also my christening! We got up early and I got my bath. I had to put on my robe after that because Mommy didn’t want me to put on my dress to wrinkle it. Anyway, my grandparents met at our house and we all left together for the church. Uncle Bourge (Marc) and Aunt Nikki (still trying to figure out what I wanna call her since she’s my nanny) met us at the church. Mommy and GiGi dressed me in the parking lot and then brought me in. They didn’t even make me wear my heart monitor while we were at church because I was going to be around water and that wouldn’t be safe. Also, they didn’t want it blaring during mass. It was really cool being baptized in front of the whole church – Fr. Ranzino even presented me to the congregation afterward. Check out my pictures! You’ll see me with my parents and godparents, me in my gown, me the whole family group, and me with my parents. Special thanks to "Aunt" Jaimi, "Uncle" Steve, "Uncle" Richard, "Aunt" Sharon, Taylor, Jordan and Erin for coming to mass to support me! That was very nice of you to come on my special day! I slept really well that night!

On Monday, Mommy and I took it easy. We were worn out from yesterday. We really didn’t do too much besides a trip to the bank drive thru and the post office drive by mailbox. Good enough for me! Daddy came home and he was wiped out too! We all slept well.

Talk to you soon!

Love,

Samantha

May 7, 2007 (Monday)

May 8, 2007

May 9, 2007

May 10, 2007

Hola! So far, we’ve had a pretty good week. On Monday, we did laundry (as usual). That took longer than usual and we even had a leftover load for Tuesday. Mommy says that they’ve got extra clothes now since they are exercising every day and that’s why there was extra. I even have extra too because I have to change after they exercise too because I end up smelling "like outside".

On Tuesday and Wednesday, we worked on getting the house in shape for this weekend when we have my grandparents and godparents over after my christening. Mommy is worried that she won’t get everything done. I keep trying to tell her that it’s gonna be fine and that they won’t be "grading" the house, but she doesn’t listen to me. I don’t think she understands what I’m trying to say. I’m getting really good at the talking thing. I can grunt and groan up a storm. I can even laugh and giggle. That cracks my parents up – they all but stand on their heads to get me to laugh these days. It’s pretty funny to watch the things they do to get a laugh out of me. Then, when I do give them a laugh, it makes them laugh even harder than me!

On Thursday, I had a special treat – I got to go to dinner with them at a REAL restaurant. Daddy got me dressed in my fancy smocked dress that my Aunt Denise gave me. I was a very good girl for most of the evening. There was only one time where I fussed some. That was because I was fighting sleep because I wanted to look around some more at my new surroundings. Overall, it was a pleasant evening.

Guess what else happened on Thursday? My doctor’s office called and said for Mommy and Daddy to take me off of the caffeine each morning! WooHoo! He wants to do another download on my heart monitor in two weeks. If that one is clean of any issues and the one after that is clean of issues, I might be able to come off of this noisy monitor. Mommy says that she doesn’t mind it when I’m sleeping (except for when I pull out my leads in the middle of the night and the machine starts BLARING), but it is sometimes hard to move me around during the day w/out tripping on the wire. I will be happy to get off of the monitor because it’s not very comfortable to have the strap around my chest all day and night. I want to be able to move around and take REALLY deep breaths without the constraints of the strap. Keep your fingers crossed!

Have a great weekend – I’ll check back in after my christening on Sunday. Hopefully, Mommy and Daddy can get some pictures up on Sunday.

Talk to you soon!

Love,

Sami

May 4, 2007

May 5, 2007

May 6, 2007

Hi everyone! We had a pretty low key weekend. On Friday, we really didn’t do anything – we even took the day off of exercising. It was nice to have some time to just hang out with my folks at the house.

On Saturday, we went on a family walk in the morning and then Daddy went on a bike ride for some extra exercise. He’s really into this exercise thing these days! For lunch, Mommy did red beans….they smelled REALLY good, but I’m not ready for that yet. I can’t wait though! Daddy said they tasted just like his. Mommy was all excited about that because she loves the way he makes his. She says they are even better when he makes refried beans out of them the next day. I can’t wait for that either! They said I’m really gonna like those! We watched some movies and took a nap. Daddy went on a second bike ride in the evening………you can tell that weigh in is soon.

On Sunday, we went to New Orleans for the weigh in at Aunt Pam and Uncle Dooty’s house. Mommy and Daddy did well, but I think Uncle Michael won this month. That’s ok….we’ll get ‘em next month! Even better………we’ll get ‘em in July for the BIG finale! Y’see – they even have me talkin’ smack about the competition. You wouldn’t believe the grief goin’ on over here! It’s pretty funny!

I got my christening gown today….it is FINE!!!!! ReeRee (Maria) is letting us use hers and it is SOOOOOO pretty. It’s neat to wear a family one because it makes the day even more special. ReeRee said that she’s gonna get my name monogrammed on it once we use it, just like she did for her own kids. That’s cool! Mommy says I’m gonna be looking AWESOME for my big day! I’ll make sure she gets some good pictures of me that aren’t fuzzy. Her camera has been acting up, but we will have NONE of that for my special day! I got to try on the bonnet today and it fits me perfectly! I can’t wait to try on the whole outfit!

I’ll check back in later this week – we might even try to get some new pictures up. I’ll let you know when it’s time to check my gallery for new pics.

Love you guys!

Samantha

May 2, 2007

May 3, 2007

Hi everyone! We’ve had a very fun 2 days. On Wednesday, Mommy and I went for a walk with "Aunt" Jaimi and Zac. That was fun….only I don’t really remember too much because I slept for most of the walk. It was so pretty outside, and there was a nice breeze blowing….I just couldn’t help myself. In the afternoon, Daddy came home a few minutes early so Mommy could go shopping – there were a pair of shoes that she said I HAD to have! So, I got the shoes, 2 shirts and a hat. J She can go shoe shopping for me anyday! I like the outcome!

Today (Thursday), Mommy and I went to Aunt Pam’s in New Orleans because VZ and Uncle Steve are in town from California. While we were there, ReeRee (Maria) came over with Andrew and Mary, Aunt Kathy came over with Sarah, Caroline, Becca Mae, David and Laura Beth, and Aunt Pammy came with James (the others were at school). Aunt Pam and Uncle Dooty were getting the yard ready for a get together at their house on Saturday, so I didn’t see a whole lot of them. We have to go back there on Sunday for a weigh in, so I’ll visit with them while we’re there this weekend.

Be sure to check out my new pictures! The ones in my hat are some that Mommy snapped before we went for a walk. The one in my white onesie, is me stretching after my nap. The one in the little teal outfit is me waking up and Mommy making me laugh. The group one is me with VZ, ReeRee, Aunt Pammy and Aunt Kathy (Laura Beth is on her lap) – of course, I’m basking in all of the attention – you should have seen them trying to get me to laugh……….they are funny and I can’t wait to hang out with them some more!

Well, I’m off for a bottle and some sleep! Talk to you later…..

Love,

Samantha

Wednesday, April 26, 2007 through Tuesday, May 01, 2007

Hi everyone! The past week was pretty laid back. On Thursday, Mommy and I went to GiGi and Pops’ house to spend the night because Daddy was working late. It was a lot of fun – I got to take a sink bath again. I love when GiGi does that! I’m gonna be a whiz at swimming because I love the water! Guess what?! Today I rolled over from my tummy to my back all by myself. I did it 3 times in a row and Mommy ran to get the camera to film it. However, by the time she got back, I didn’t feel like it anymore. I was tired. Rolling over takes the energy out of me. I’ll do it again later for her.

On Friday night, I got to stay with "Aunt" Sharon and "Uncle Wichit" (Richard) while Daddy and Mommy went to dinner. That was fun too! I got to rock a lot that night with them. Mommy caught me rolling over on film tonight before she and Daddy left for dinner. She was all excited about that! She was on the floor playing with me in her pretty dress. By the time we left, I had blue sparkle all over me. I felt like I was going with them!

The rest of the weekend was spent exercising and watching movies with my parents. They noticed that I get REALLY hungry at dinner time and usually want a LOT more than my other bottle times. So, on Monday, Mommy called the doctor to see if I could have some cereal in my milk and he said yes. So, at the dinnertime feeding, they get to put a teaspoon of rice cereal (per ounce) in my bottle. It was a little harder to drink, but I got the hang of it. That really filled me up – thank goodness they called!

On Monday, we did laundry during the day, and walked in the evening. Nothing really eventful happened today.

On Tuesday, we went to a baptism seminar at our church. My baptism is on Mother’s Day and we had to attend in order to have the baptism. Marc and Nikki have to go to one at their church too so that they can be my Godparents.

I’ll check back in later in the week! Talk to you soon!

Love,

Samantha

Thursday, April 19 through Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Hi everyone! Sorry it’s been so long since my last update, but I’ve been grumpy. Last Friday, I had to get my 4 month shots……4 of ‘em………and it HURT!!! My doctor said that I’d probably not feel so hot for the next few days, and was he ever right! I was on Tylenol for the hurt, but it only disguised it for a little while. My legs were sore and my mood was BAD, but Mommy and Daddy said I was still cute. J They have been very busy appeasing me and trying to make the situation better. I love those guys…..they never even got angry with me for being a fusspot for a few days. They were very understanding about my problem and we logged some rocking time. That was nice.

Since Mommy and Daddy are on a health kick, we’ve been exercising almost every day! I get to stroll around the neighborhood with them. I like our outings….being outside is cool because you get to hear all of the animal sounds and smile at the neighbors.

The main thing that’s been going on is our sofas……we got rid of "big blue" and her matching chair, and got a different set. It’s only a temporary set though because it’s for Hunter when he needs it. We got it all nice and clean and smelling good, and put new foam in the cushions. They are as good as new! It took us a while for Mommy and Daddy to be satisfied with the cleaning and they kept going over and over everything with the steam cleaner and washing all of the possible parts that they could get into the washing machine. It was funny watching them sniff all over them again and again. Those two get picky about stuff sometimes. But that’s ok…..I’m already picky about some stuff, just like them. I like what I like. J

It’s been pretty low key around here because of my shots, but I’m sure things will pick up soon! I’ll check in soon!

Love,

Samantha

Wednesday, April 11, 2007 thru Wednesday, April 18, 2007

Hi everyone! We are back from our vacation to Pensacola with Zac and his family….it was a BLAST!!!!! We left on Wednesday and came back on Sunday. I got to do a lot of things that I had never done before! I got to stay in a beautiful condo on the 12th floor (not to be confused with my own personal condo in the NICU), wear a bathingsuit (a bikini, no less), hang out on the beach, feel sand, wear sunglasses, go to a real actual very small restaurant at the condo place, and sleep in my new pack ‘n’ play from the Easter Bunny. One of the best parts was that we got to spend 5 whole days with Zac and his family – they were a lot of fun! I like hanging out with people – gotta do more of that this summer! Whew, that was a LOT! Check out the new pictures!

On Monday, Mommy and I unpacked and began to get stuff put away from the trip. Mommy and I went on a walk after dinner while Daddy was steam cleaning the sofa cushions. They didn’t want me around all of that noise because they were afraid it would get me too stimulated and I would pitch a fit. So, Mommy and I got exercise instead. I liked it because the weather was not too hot and not too cool. If the weather would be like that all the time, I’d be all over the exercise thing.

On Tuesday, GiGi and Pops came over in the afternoon on their way back to Lafayette from Lockport. They stayed for a few hours and drove home. It was great to see them again! GiGi and I played on the floor and I acted all cute for her. I was cooing and smiling and kicking my feet and stuff like that. We even got to watch my Baby Einstein Mozart together. That was cool!

On Wednesday, Mommy and I went on a walk in the morning for some fresh air and exercise. When we got home, Ms. Keri from home health came to swap my monitor and check me out. She said I weigh 8 pounds 8 ounces! I’m HUGE!!! That means on the doctor’s office scale I’d be 8 pounds 12 ounces! She said she’d be back next month to weigh me and check me out again.

It’s been a jam packed few days and I’m still trying get back in the swing of things, but I’m glad we did all of it! Well, I’m off for a bottle and a nap. I’ll talk to you guys later!

Love,

Sami

Friday, April 6, 2007

Saturday, April 7, 2007

Sunday, April 8, 2007

Happy Easter weekend everyone! We had a very busy weekend over here….

On Friday, Mommy and I headed home from Lafayette. When we got there, I had a bottle and then left with Daddy to go to Pierre Part to the Whitworth’s camp for the day. Mommy and GiGi were staying at our house to get it ready for Easter. Daddy and I came back Friday evening.

On Saturday, the three of us headed to New Orleans so Mommy and Daddy could weigh in for the weight competition with our cousins. It’s gonna be a different ball game at our house for the next few months because Mommy and Daddy are both on a losing weight kick……I hope they don’t get grumpy since they are on a diet!

When I woke up Sunday morning, I saw something very wonderful! The Easter Bunny came to my house Saturday night!!! He brought me some new clothes and a pack and play! I like that guy….he can come to see me ANYTIME!!!

Also on Sunday, Hunter, Mama and Amigo, GiGi and Pops, Uncle Marc and Aunt Nikki came over for Easter. We had a crawfish boil…..it was very cold outside in the morning, but warmed up for the afternoon. I had to stay in the house. While the food was cooking, they would take turns coming in to visit with me. I think the crawfish smell really good….I can’t wait to eat some! That night, we were all exhausted. Daddy took a nap while Mommy and I watched The Sound of Music – that’s a cool movie! She said she was tired, but couldn’t sleep yet. So, we hung out in the rocker for a while until we both were ready for sleep. It was a GREAT day! I like having everyone over to my house instead of having to sit in that carseat contraption and be all confined…I like to kick my legs and move around too much for that nonsense! Anyway, I’m off for bottle and sleep!

Happy Easter everyone!!!!

Love,

Samantha

Monday, April 2, 2007

Tuesday, April 3, 2007

Wednesday, April 4, 2007

Thursday, April 5, 2007

Hi everyone! Guess what I did today (Monday)! I went to take a picture with the Easter Bunny! It was really cool! I took one by myself last week, but this time I got to go with my big brother! He’s so cool! I didn’t think he’d want to take one with me because he’s a big boy, but he did it just for me! Isn’t he great? I love that guy with my whole heart! He was a little embarrassed, but he did it anyway cuz he ROCKS!!!

On Tuesday, Mommy and I went to hang out at Aunt Jaimi’s – I got to see Zac in person. He was showing me how to eat baby food since he’s a step ahead of me in the food department. It looks like fun….especially the carrots. I wonder when my doctor will tell me it’s time to eat some food like that…..I’m ready, just tell me when!

OH YEAH!!! I forgot to tell you something very important…..on Tuesday, the nurse from the pediatrician called and said that on my last download from my heart monitor had NO apnea and NO "brady’s" (heart rate dips)! Isn’t that cool? The doctor is supposed to call Mommy tomorrow to tell her what to do about my caffeine dose…..if to continue it or lower it or whatever……..once I get off of the caffeine, if I get a few more great downloads, I’m getting’ rid of this heart monitor contraption!

On Wednesday, the doctor’s nurse called and said that he wants me to try to get off of the caffeine….woo hoo! Today was my last dose! Hopefully, it goes well. Keep your fingers crossed….

On Wednesday, Mommy and I went to her school to a baby shower for me – it was also for 2 other babies too, but they aren’t even born yet…..I’m the only special one that got to attend her own baby shower. Heehee After the shower, we went to Aunt Jaimi and Zac’s to visit for the evening while Daddy went to Georges for a little while. We all got home around the same time so we could visit for a while before bed.

Thursday, we took a road trip to Lafayette. Mommy and I went early and Daddy met us at GiGi and Pops’ house after work. Mommy and Daddy had plans to go to dinner with Aunt Nikki and Uncle Marc…..they wanted to congratulate Uncle Marc on being accepted into Ole Miss for his doctorate. They had another reason too, but they didn’t tell them ahead of time…..they wanted to ask them to be my Godparents. They said YES!!!!! WOO HOO!!!!!

Mommy and I spent the night in Lafayette, but Daddy had to drive back for work in the morning. Mommy and I will drive home Friday morning so we can get the house ready for Easter. Everyone is coming over to our house for a crawfish boil and we have to be prepared.

Well, I’m off for a bottle……..

Toodle-ooo!

Love,

Sami

Friday, March 23, 2007

Saturday, March 24, 2007

Sunday, March 25, 2007

Hi everyone! It’s been a very busy weekend on my end! Let me tell you about it.

On Friday, Mommy and I headed off to Lockport to Maw Maw Jones’ house. Luckily, GiGi was going to be there this weekend, so I got to see both my grandma and great-grandma. Isn’t that cool? While I was there, I got to meet ReeRee (Maria), Gretchen, Mary, Andrew, Joseph, Aunt Cindy and Uncle John, Aunt Rhonda and Uncle Jacques, Uncle Jim, "Aunt" Monique, and "Aunt Shelley". We tried to meet Ms. Sylvia and Ms. Angela who live across the street from Maw Maw, but they weren’t home. It was Uncle Jim’s birthday and we had angel food cake with strawberries on it – it sure smelled good! I can’t wait until I can actually eat something! Mommy and I slept in Maw Maw’s front bedroom – I did a great job sleeping and eating overnight. GiGi would wake up with us for a visit every time I woke up for a bottle. That was kind of nice – I liked it. In the morning, we ate some breakfast and headed for home. You’ll have to see the pictures Mommy took of some of them holding me – they will be up later this week when Mommy gets a chance to put them on the computer and Daddy has a chance to put them on the site! I’ll let you know when to take a look.

On Saturday, we drove home so Mommy could go shopping for a birthday gift for Daddy and for Mr. Richard. Daddy’s birthday is on Monday and Mr. Richard’s is on Tuesday. Daddy let Mommy sleep ALL night and he took very good care of me. He said Mommy needed it. What a cool thing for him to do……she was very happy in the morning!

On Sunday, we had a birthday crawfish boil at Mr. Richard and Ms. Sharon’s for the birthday boys! They really liked their gifts. Daddy got a new crawfish pot, some new crocs and a tempur-pedic pillow.

Now, I’m pooped and going to bed. It’s been a fast weekend, but a very good one. I’ll talk to you later on this week!

Love,

Samantha

Monday, March 19, 2007

Tuesday, March 20, 2007

Wednesday, March 21, 2007

Thursday, March 22, 2007

Hi everyone! Here is the weekday update…..

On Monday, I went to the pediatrician again because he wanted to check on me – I had a lot of apnea alarms over the weekend and he wanted to make sure I was ok. I was also spitting up more than usual since they changed my formula. So, he put me on Zantac 2 times per day.

On Tuesday, Mommy and I strolled down the street a few times for some exercise because Mommy tried on swimsuits and said she needed to get in shape.

J

On Wednesday, Mommy and I walked up and down the street for some exercise. In the afternoon, we did some cleaning and general straightening up.

On Thursday, Deacon Tommy was supposed to come over for a visit with my family, but got sick and had to cancel. He said he’d call Mommy tomorrow to set up a new appointment with us. We have to have a home visit for my baptism. Hunter came over to mow the grass and to be here for the visit. He stayed for dinner…….it was great to see him. I got to rock with him for a few minutes. I hope he comes back soon!

I’ll give a weekend update on Sunday. Have a great weekend!

Love,

Samantha

Saturday, March 17, 2007

Sunday, March 18, 2007

Hi everyone! I hope you had a fun weekend! Mine was very busy – which was both good and bad. On Saturday, Mommy and Daddy brought me to the St. Patrick’s Day parade. It was really fun – we stood WAAAAY in the back so we wouldn’t be by people and we wouldn’t be hit with beads and other goodies. It was such a beautiful day! I really enjoyed myself! I finally got to see what a parade looks like!

After the parade, we went with Daddy to LaPlace to spend the night at the Hampton Inn because he had to do some work there. That’s when I got really fussy and wouldn’t stop crying. The night was not pleasant. I think I got too stimulated at the parade and then when I wasn’t at home that night, it kinda freaked me out – too much time out of my OWN surroundings. Daddy and Mommy said they learned their lesson and would take all future outings very SLOWLY!!! They said they would also choose things that were less noisy. I guess I showed them who’s boss!

On Sunday, we came home and I was much better. I got back to my normal cutie pie self (at least that’s what Mommy said). We took it really easy all day. I got a lot of rest and relaxation.

Check out my pictures from the weekend!

Talk to you soon –

Love,

Sami

Thursday, March 15, 2007

Friday, March 16, 2007

Hey everyone! I have some great news! I went to the eye doctor today (Thursday) and she said I don’t have to go back to see her for 3-4 months! WOOHOO!!!! I am one happy baby! We had a small party in the doctor’s office when she said it – I thought Mommy was going to run over and hug her. My doctor’s a nice lady, but I’m glad I don’t have to see her again for a long time! My next appointment is in July!

Daddy is still sick, so he can’t be around me. He stayed at a hotel last night (Wednesday) and will probably stay there again tonight. I hope he can come back tomorrow – I miss him a whole lot. It’s really sweet of him to stay away though – it keeps me from getting sick. He says that they’ve worked so hard to keep me well that it isn’t worth the threat of getting me sick and went to a hotel. He’s the best!

GiGi and Pops are coming over tonight to see me again. Mommy is going to dinner with "Aunt" Jaimi and they are going to stay with me. GiGi said she’s nervous about my monitor, and Mommy said she’s just a phone call away if GiGi needs her to come home. I’m fired up because that means that I’ll get some extra love and attention from GiGi while Mommy and Daddy are gone.

J Who doesn’t like that?

When Mommy got in from dinner, GiGi said that the night was perfect up until about 15 minutes before she got home. Pops was snoozing on the sofa and GiGi and I were rocking in the chair – I was sleeping and she was dozing on and off…..when, all of a sudden, my monitor alarm went off. It didn’t bother me at all, but you’ve never seen two people jump so high as GiGi and Pops did. It was a "loose leads" alarm so they had to turn it off, make sure all of the leads were attached properly, then turn it back on. Needless to say, they were WIDE awake after that one.

On Friday, Mommy and I had a lazy day. We didn’t even get out of our pj’s. Mommy says it’s ok just for today because we were both tired and we didn’t have anyone scheduled to visit or any doctor appointments. All we did today was eat and sleep. I call that a good day. I couldn’t do it all the time, but we’ve had a busy week this week and needed some r & r.

Guess what?! Daddy gets to come home tonight! He feels better and is taking his antibiotics from the doctor. He doesn’t have fever anymore and can be around me. I think Mommy will still have him wear a mask until his antibiotics are done and we are sure he’s all better. It’s ok though – I’m just glad he’s gonna be at home with us and so is Mommy.

I had another new experience today…..Mommy gave me a manicure because my nails were getting too long. She says I was scratching the fire out of her neck and face. So, now I’m an expert at the manicure thing. I learn something new every day!

Well, I’m off to get ready for Daddy to get home……I’ll write more later this weekend –

Love,

Sami – the not going to the eye doctor for a long time so I’m happy baby!

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Hi everyone! My pictures are up now! Mommy takes pictures of everyone as they hold me. So, now I have guest stars on my website!

On Wednesday, I went to Dr. Upp (the surgeon) for a follow up visit. He said my incisions look very good and that he doesn’t need to see me again unless my belly button doesn’t fix itself. He said it will probably fix itself in about 6-8 months. Until then, I have the biggest "outie" you’ve ever seen! J

Today we changed my formula again – hopefully this one won’t gurgle in my tummy like the other one. I’ll let you know how that goes.

Have a great night!

Love,

Samantha

Monday, March 12, 2007

Tuesday, March 13, 2007

Hi everyone! Yesterday was a very busy day for us! In the morning, we went to the church office to register and to get the ball rolling on my christening (we don’t have a date set yet). When we got back, Dee Dee (Diane) came to visit me for the first time! We were having a great time when the men came to install our new a/c unit. Once they got started, Mommy and Dee Dee decided that I didn’t need to be there in the smell, dust and mess. So, Mommy packed me up and Dee Dee kept me occupied while waiting. When Daddy got home, Mommy and I took a ROAD TRIP!!! It was my very first one! We went to spend the night at GiGi and Pops’ house in Lafayette. While we were there, Aunt Nikki and Uncle Bourge (Marc) came to visit me. It was really cool, but I was pooped by the end of the day. Daddy couldn’t come with us because he had to stay with the men while they finished the installation. He was a very busy guy too……….I’ll tell you about that in a minute.

This morning, Mommy and I drove back home. When we got in, the house smelled so good! Daddy had already cleaned up the mess that the men made AND he shampooed the carpets with the big carpet cleaner. Mommy was ALL excited about that. She said the carpets finally look good. He’s such a good Daddy! I love that guy!

Be sure to check out my photo gallery because I have a few new pictures of people who have come to visit!

I have to go to the surgeon tomorrow for a follow up visit to check my incisions and stuff. On Thursday, I have to go to the doggone eye doctor again. I’ll write more after the visits – either on Thursday night or Friday. Have a great week!

Love,

Samantha

Friday, March 9, 2007

Saturday, March 10, 2007

Sunday, March 11, 2007

Hi everyone! Here is the weekend update, as promised! On Friday, Mommy and I just hung out at the house. When Daddy came home, they ate crawfish etouffe since they can’t have meat on Friday because of Lent.

On Saturday, Daddy had to work and Mommy and I stayed home. It was such a pretty day, she put me in the "snugli" and we went for a walk up and down the street. There were people outside…..I’m not used to seeing people. That was kinda cool! I enjoyed myself. Of course, I was so comfy in my "snugli" that I fell asleep as soon as we were off of the driveway.

On Sunday, I was able to begin to meet adults. So, "Aunt" Jaimi came over to visit in the afternoon. She got to hold me and tell me all about Zac. She’s very nice. I can’t wait to hang out with them. GiGi and Pops also came by to visit. I like it when they come by like that. This whole meeting people thing is gonna be fun! I can’t wait to see who comes by in the next few weeks!

Mommy says she’ll try to get blogs up on Tuesday and Thursday of this week. On Wednesday, I have to go to the surgeon for a follow up appointment. He’s going to check my incisions and stuff. Then, on Thursday, I have to go to the mean ol’ eye doctor again. Please say a prayer for me that my eyes are improving again. If they keep improving, I won’t have to go as often. That would make for one very happy baby! J

SEE you all very soon!

Love,

Sami

Monday, March 5, 2007

Tuesday, March 6, 2007

Wednesday, March 7, 2007

Thursday, March 08, 2007

Hi everyone! Mommy says that since we’re so busy around here these days, we’re going to do a weekly update, and a weekend one on Sunday. Here goes……..

On Monday, Mommy did laundry and we got some of my clothes organized into sizes and put some away that I’ve outgrown. We made the weekly dinner plan and made a grocery list. She’s trying to get all organized around here and it’s looking a little better, if I do say so myself. J

On Tuesday, Aunt Pam and Uncle Dooty were coming in town to visit one of their friends and came by the house to "view" me. And here’s the best part…GiGi made a surprise visit after she got off of work. She drove all the way from Lafayette just to come to see me for a few hours. She said she couldn’t stand being away from me for that long. I love her a lot! J Thank you GiGi! Daddy came home early today so he could hang out with "his girls". We had a great night at home.

On Wednesday, Mommy went through a little more of her closet to get stuff together to donate to Goodwill. You should have seen the stuff flinging out of that closet. She’s not kidding around with that. She says that she’s doing Daddy’s closet next. J

On Thursday, Mommy and I did housework. Does laundry EVER end? It doesn’t seem like it. Daddy came home a little early today and we napped together – he was on the sofa and I was in my lounger while Mommy went to the store. This evening, Mommy and I watched American Idol – I like Melinda Doolittle and so does Mommy.

You guys have a great weekend and I’ll write more on Sunday. Mommy says she’ll try to get some new pictures of me up on the website this weekend. I don’t think she goes ANYWHERE without that camera. I guess I’d better get used to posing for pictures and saying "CHEESE."

TTFN –

Love,

Samantha

March 1, 2007

March 2, 2007

March 3, 2007

March 4, 2007

Hey everyone! Sorry it’s been so long since my last blog, but we’ve had a lot going on. Here’s the latest……..

Thursday was a pretty low key day. We just did a few things around the house and rested. I’m a little sore, but the Tylenol seems to be handling that.

Friday was a nightmare day for me. In the morning, I had to go to the pediatrician for my 2 month shots – 4 of ‘em – 2 in each thigh. It was NOT pleasant!!! I go back in 2 months for the next set. Before I got my shots, Mommy took some pictures of me when I was looking at myself in the mirror, and while wrapped in my blanket waiting for the doctor. You can see my herniated belly button in the mirror ones. It looks pretty funny, but the doctors say it will go in when my abdominal muscles grow together. It’s very common. Anyway, don’t forget to check out my new pics in the photo gallery.

In the afternoon, I had to go to the eye doctor…AGAIN! At least this time she said I don’t have to go back for two weeks (instead of one). She said she saw some improvement in my eye…..YAY!!! Hopefully, that continues!

Needless to say, I was in a BAD mood for the rest of the day Mommy and I logged some time in the rocker – that was nice. At least the day ended a whole lot better than it began!

On Saturday, we just hung out at the house. I was still a little grumpy from yesterday, but I began to get back to normal. One of my incisions had a little red puffy spot so Mommy and Daddy put some medicine on it and are bringing me to the doctor tomorrow to get it checked out. When they called the "on call" surgeon, she wanted us to go to the ER to see her, but my parents said "no way" because they’ve kept me away from germs for this long, they weren’t going to put me in the middle of that – especially since I can to go the pediatrician first thing in the morning!

On Sunday morning, bright and early, I went to the pediatrician and the "on call" doctor said that Daddy and Mommy did the right thing and that they were treating it the exact way he would have told them to. My folks ROCK!

Also on Sunday, I had a special surprise……Daddy and Mommy made and exception for the no visitors rule for VZ and "Uncle" Steve since they live in California (and are leaving on Monday) and since she’s a NICU nurse. She is the coolest! I remembered her voice from when she came to see me in the hospital! I tell you what……..if meeting people is that much fun all the time, I REEEEALLY can’t WAIT until I can meet everyone else! J

Talk to you guys later –

Love,

Samantha

Wednesday, February 28, 2007

Hi everyone! I spent the night at the hospital and now I’m back home. Everything went just as planned last night, and that’s very good news!

Last night, I got to see Ms. Alexi again AND I got to see Ms. Lynette too! They both came by my room to visit! I love those guys, and I think they love me too! J

Mommy says that today we are gonna take it easy so I can recover quietly. She wants me to be able to relax and get some good rest without people coming in every hour to take my temperature and check my stats.

Can you believe it’s been a whole month since I’ve come home? How time flies when you’re having fun!

Talk to you soon –

Love,

Sami

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Hi everyone! I’m writing from the hospital – I just got finished with my hernia operation. Things went very well. Dr. Upp said that I had a very big hole on the right side and when he looked at the left side with the telescopic lens, there was a moderate sized one on the left. They fixed both of them and now I’m good to go. There is a waterproof seal that covers my incisions that will wear/peel off in a few days. All of my stitches are on the inside and will dissolve on their own. I can take Tylenol for pain if I need to.

Mommy and Daddy get to stay at the hospital with me tonight in a "family" room. We will get to go home first thing tomorrow morning if everything goes well tonight.

Before my surgery, Ms. Alexi came to see me. She was just getting off of the night shift. We got to visit and chat for a few minutes and she said I’m getting VERY big! J She has to come back to the hospital for a meeting tonight and is going to check on me again. I can’t wait to see her!

I’ll write more tomorrow – I hafta go back to sleep to let the anesthesia wear off.

Hugs and Kisses,

Sami

Monday, February 19, 2007

Tuesday, February 20, 2007

Hi everyone! On Monday, I had to go back to the eye doctor. Gross. Dr. Williams looked in my eyes with that awful contraption again and said that she still sees a raised line in one small spot in one of my eyes. That is what she’s waiting for – that line to go away. In the other eye, she says it is beginning to get flat (which is what she wants supposed to happen). I hope it gets flat SOON!!! I have to go back next Friday so she can look at it again. YUCK!!!

Hunter came by to see me again tonight. I really like when he comes over because I don’t get to see him that often. He is very busy with school and work. Maybe he can come over to visit me again soon!

On Tuesday, I stayed home with Mommy and Daddy. Nobody left the house today – we had a lazy day. It was great! I think we ALL took a few naps. J They said that next year we will be at parades and that we’d catch a LOT of beads and stuff. I can’t WAIT!! That parade thing sounds like a lot of fun!

I’ll chat with you soon –

Happy

Mardi Gras!!!!

Love,

Sami

Friday, February 16, 2007

Saturday, February 17, 2007

Sunday, February 18, 2007

Hi everyone! We had a great weekend! On Friday, Mommy and I did stuff around the house – same as usual. When Daddy got in, he said he was very proud of me because I ate as much for Mommy as I usually do for him. I usually "play opossum" for Mommy feedings and don’t eat as much. Mommy says I’m just being a stinker and I’m spoiled for my Daddy. Daddy says the same about Mommy. J It’s funny to watch them pick on each other about it.

The weather was beautiful on Saturday – I looked through the window! Mommy went to the store and when she got back, she told us how it was perfect "parade weather." That was kinda funny, because I don’t even know what that means! She explained it to me and said that I’d be able to go next year to catch all kinds of fun stuff!

On Saturday, Daddy made hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill. They smelled good too! I REALLY need some teeth…….

Saturday night, my big brother, Hunter came by to see me. I got to rock with him after I had my bottle. He was very comfortable. I hope he comes by often to rock with me! J

On Sunday, Mommy hung out in the morning while Daddy went with Mr. Richard to get stuff together for a crawfish boil at their house. Daddy helped them boil, ate a little, and then came home so that Mommy could go for a while. They told me that I’d be able to go with them in about a month….maybe a little longer. That’ll be fun!

That pretty much sums up my weekend – talk to you soon!

Love,

Sami

Wednesday, February 14, 2007

Thursday, February 15, 2007

Hi everyone! Happy Valentine’s Day – a little belated! We had a wonderful day and night. Daddy brought home steaks and cooked them on the grill. They were delicious! (or at least they smelled delicious) J I can’t wait until I have teeth and can eat with them. The milk is good, but it certainly doesn’t smell like steak! Then we just hung out in the living room until bedtime. It was nice.

I went to the pediatrician yesterday and he said to keep me on my formula (Enfamil) and keep giving me Mylicon as needed until my stomach is used to having straight formula. He also said that sometimes I might act hungry because I need to be held – it’s also a way for my tummy not to hurt as much. I’m not scared of being held more! J Works for me!!! He also said that I weigh 5 pounds on the dot. Isn’t that GREAT?!

Today, Mommy and I are going to finish the laundry, put the folded clothes away when we finish, and do some general tidying around the house. Nothing major – just typical "at home" stuff.

When Daddy gets home from work, he’s gonna give me my bottle and visit with me for a while before I go to sleep. I love that time with Daddy because he talks and sings to me in Spanish. It makes me laugh sometimes because he sings me a song about a mouse playing when the cat is away – some of the words sound funny to my ears and I laugh. It makes he and Mommy laugh too! That’s fun!

Don’t forget to check out my new pictures that Mommy took yesterday!

Well, I’m off to hang with Mommy – talk to you soon –

Love,

Sami

Tuesday, February 13, 2007

He everyone! Here is a 2 day update again. Yesterday, I went to the eye doctor. That stunk. Every time I go, I leave with red puffy eyes from crying. I can’t stand going to the eye doctor! She said there is a spot she wants to check again next week – so, I’ll have to do that all over again. Picture me frowning.

Last night, my tummy bothered me all night again. I have an appointment with the pediatrician tomorrow morning to see if we can get the tummy situation under control.

The Home Health nurse came by again today to switch out my monitor. She weighed me and discovered that I am now 4 pounds 10.5 ounces! I’m creeping up on 5 pounds now! Isn’t that great news?

Today, Mommy and I are just going to hang out and enjoy each other’s company all day. We have a lot to get done and it’s a lot more fun if you have someone to talk to while you get things done. It’s so nice being here with her instead of at some daycare where I don’t know anyone! I’ll be there soon enough, but for now, I’m enjoying my time at home. J

Well, I’ll talk to you guys again soon –

Love,

Samantha

Tuesday, February 06, 2007

Hi everyone! Today the Home Health nurse came by to check on me again. I weighed 4 pounds 5 ounces on her scale. I’m growing and growing! The only problem is that my tummy still hurts after I eat and it’s causing me grief. Mommy and Daddy don’t like that. I grunt and cry a little while I’m sleeping and I don’t get restful sleep. We’re working on some different things to make it better though. My doctor said Mylicon is something over the counter that we can try.

Talk to you tomorrow – I’m off to try to get some sleep.

Bye bye,

Sami

Monday, February 05, 2007

Hi everyone! Today was a lazy day. I ate and slept in my new newborn lounger. Mommy found it yesterday at Target. It’s a large pillow that keeps my upper body elevated after a feeding so that I don’t get a tummy ache – or at least not a bad one. It’s working so far. I am sleeping a whole lot better and easier than I was before the lounger.

Mommy tried to get my clothes organized into things I’ve outgrown, things I can wear now and things I will wear in a few weeks or months. We’ll be getting my chest of drawers soon and that will make it a lot easier to keep it all in order.

I had to get a new monitor today because the service light was blinking on my other one. Now I’m good to go. Home Health is coming tomorrow for my weigh in and measurements. I’ll let you know how much I’ve grown!

When Daddy came home tonight, I had just finished a bottle and we chatted for a few minutes before I fell asleep.

Well, I’ll talk to you tomorrow!

Love,

 

Samantha

Weekend of February 2-4, 2007

Hi everyone! It’s been a hectic weekend. Mommy and Daddy were very busy and I didn’t get much computer time. Mommy went to Lockport for the afternoon on Saturday for Maw Maw Jones’ 96th birthday party. I stayed home with Daddy and we had a chance to visit.

Today, we hung out at the house and watched the Superbowl. We were rooting for the Bears because they beat the Saints. We figured if they beat the Saints, then they deserve to win it all! Too bad it didn’t work out for them.

I’ve been having a tummy ache after I eat and my parents are pretty tired. They are pretty much "tag teaming" when it comes to nighttime feedings. Mommy takes the first 2 and Daddy takes the last 2. That way, they each get to sleep a little each night.

Other than that, I’ve been eating and sleeping. I’ll write more tomorrow!

Don’t forget to check out my new pictures!

Love,

Sami

Thursday, February 01, 2007

Hi everyone! It seems as though my days are going to be full of eating and sleeping for the next few weeks. I’m ok with that! Today, Home Health came back to weigh me and check my monitor. They switched out my monitor so that they could bring it to the hospital to download the information on it so far. Once they do that, they send it over to my doctor to see. Isn’t that cool? I’m sure the newness of the situation will wear off, and it will become "everyday" to us. However, when it beeps now, you’ve never seen 2 adults move so fast – I think I’ve seen them airborne a few times.

The Home Health nurse weighed me and on her scale, I was 3 pounds 15 ounces again. I don’t get it – the doctor’s scale yesterday said 4 pounds 3 ounces. Daddy said he believes the doctor’s scale and so do I. There’s no way I’ve lost that many ounces over night – especially since I’m eating a LOT!!! Something smells with that! I earned those ounces, and I want ‘em to show on the scale!

Mommy and GiGi gave me a bath today then dressed me in one of my longsleeved outfits with footies. Yeah, that’s cute and all, but I can’t seem to keep my feet in the foot part. I pull up my knees and since I’m not big enough to fill in the entire leg, my feet end up where my knees should be. Mommy and GiGi laughed when I did it. Getting GiGi to laugh is pretty funny – and easy to do. J

Daddy got us a new refrigerator today. It ROCKS!!! This way, my milk will stay nice and cold until I need it. Thanks Daddy! You always know how to make us happy like that!

Well, I’m off to sleep now. Talk to you tomorrow!

Toodles,

Samantha

Wednesday, January 31, 2007

Howdy folks! Today was a good day. I went to the pediatrician for a checkup. He is a nice guy. I weighed 4 pounds 3 ounces. I’d say that’s pretty good since I left the hospital Sunday weighing 3 pounds 15 ounces. I have to go back in a month.

Most of the day was spent eating and napping. I’m trying to get on a schedule so I know what to expect each day, but it’s hard. Sometimes, eating takes up more time that expected because sometimes I’m really hungry and it takes longer than usual.

Mommy had to go through my clothes today and actually put away some stuff that I’ve already grown out of. I have a feeling that I’ll be doing that a lot in the next few months!

Well, I’m off to eat and nap. Talk to you tomorrow!

Love,

Sami

Tuesday, January 30, 2007

Hi everyone! Today was pretty uneventful – we’re all just trying to adjust to our new homelife. It’s pretty cool. I now have a maid and a butler……oops, I mean really nice parents to care for me and look after my needs! Matilda and Geeves…oops, I mean Mommy and Daddy, are trying to get my feeding amounts figured out, but it’s kinda confusing. Ya see, sometimes, I’m feeling like eating a lot, and sometimes, I don’t. I’m just trying to keep them on their toes! So far, I’m pretty good at that. J

I have a doctor’s appointment tomorrow morning with my pediatrician. I’ll have to let you know tomorrow how that goes.

GiGi is coming to stay with us Wednesday thru Friday to help Mommy when Daddy goes back to work. I have a feeling the whole house is going to get the cleansing of a lifetime. She’s very good at that. Remind me to show you pictures of how Mommy found her under the bed with the vacuum cleaning the baseboards in my room the day I came home. She’s funny.

Anyway, I’m off to sleep now because I just had a LOT of milk. Talk to you tomorrow!

I love you,

Samantha

Monday, January 29, 2007

Hi everyone! It’s great to be home! It will take some getting used to though. My house is a LOT quieter than the hospital. There are no beeps going off in my ear every 5 seconds – it’s kinda nice. Mommy still took my temperature all night just like they did at the NICU. EVERY time I opened my eyes last night, she was looking at me. Kinda felt like a fish in a bowl. She pretty much stalked me all night. I don’t think she got much sleep. No wonder she was yawning all day today.

Daddy and Mommy had to bring me to the eye doctor today. They had to put drops in my eyes before we left so that they would dilate. I was a trooper – those drops were easy to deal with. However, the doctor’s office visit was a different story. She put this contraption on my eyelids to hold the eye open and then used this other thing to move my eye so she could look in it with this bright light. It was NOT pleasant – I screamed and pitched a little fit. She said I still have ROP and wants to see me again in two weeks. I’m so glad Daddy and Mommy were there with me. Daddy talked to me the entire time and soothed me. He really helped me feel better. We have to do it all over again in two weeks. I am not looking forward to that, I tell ya.

The Home Health nurse came to the house today to "admit" me because of my heart monitor. She was pretty nice. She won’t be my regular nurse though. She is just the one who comes the first day. I think they will be back to check my monitor on Thursday. No biggie.

The rest of the day consisted of eating, sleeping, and diaper changing. Life is good here at la casa. Please keep checking in on me. I like knowing that people are still thinking about me now that I’m home. I think I’ll be getting very big soon because I’m going to get a LOT of good rest and plenty of food.

It’s time for my next feeding, so I hafta go. Talk to you later!

Love,

Sami

Sunday, January 28, 2007

Hi everyone! I’m sorry I couldn’t update you guys this weekend, but Mommy and Daddy wouldn’t give me any computer time. However, I have something very important to tell you……and it’s VERY exciting! Are you sitting down? Are you ready? Here goes……………..

Guess where I am right now?

I’M HOME!!!!!

Betcha weren’t expecting that, were ya? Isn’t that the best news EVER? It happened today! Daddy and Mommy were at the hospital almost all afternoon getting everything signed and ready for me to leave. They even took a CPR lesson and learned all about my heart monitor. They were very busy folks. Of course, Mommy took pictures of me on the way home. You can see me hanging out in my carseat if you go to the photo gallery!

As you can see, I still have to grow in to it some. They had to roll up blankets and put them on either side of me to hold me in place. Mommy let me use my new (very soft) blanket that my cousin, Miriam, gave me – she’s so cool! We’re gonna hang out as soon as possible. She has a lot to teach me about being a girlie girl! J

GiGi and Pops were at our house all weekend getting things clean and sanitized for me. Mommy and Daddy said that they couldn’t have done it all without them!

This next part is important too:

The doctor said that only Daddy, Mommy, Hunter, GiGi, Pops, Mama and Amigo can come to our house for about 6 weeks. After that, I can have limited visitors (no kids though because of kid germs), but only if they scrub up first. I need to rest and get my immune system up to newborn status and that’s how long it will take. I promise I’ll get to meet you all face to face one day! I can’t wait for that! It’s going to be nice to finally meet all of the people Daddy and Mommy tell me are praying for me and thinking of me. I love you all already!

Well, I’m gonna go hang out in my new room for a while! Talk to you tomorrow!

Love,

Samantha

Thursday, January 25, 2007

Hi everyone! I have to tell you something…..they’ve moved me into an open crib. It all happened early this morning around 3:00 a.m. When Mommy came in this morning, the nurses told her that I held my temperature all night. That is GREAT news because if I keep this up, I can go home soon.

When the doctor called, she said that I am doing very well and that they aren’t changing anything with me today. They are concentrating on watching my temp very closely to make sure I’m still holding my own here. I’m a little tired but, I’ve got this under control, no biggie.

Daddy came to see me at lunch time because he has something to do tonight and can’t come by later. We got to hang out for a bit – it was a very nice change of pace. J He fed me my noon bottle and chatted with me while I ate. He even got to talk to the doctor!

He liked that because they usually call Mommy to give her the update. This way, he got to hear what she said first hand.

When Daddy and Mommy come back tomorrow, I hope the nurses can tell them how well I did in my open crib. If they do…….I’ve got "one foot out the door" of this place! Woo Hoo!!! It won’t be long now! J

Talk to you soon –

Love,

Sami

Wednesday, January 24, 2007

Hi guys! It was a pretty quiet day today too. Mommy came by for my 9:00 a.m. feeding. We are getting in some good practice. I didn’t even need a supplement bottle this time. I was full. I did the burp quickly for her. I wasn’t as cranky about it as I was last night. J

The doctor said that they are going to turn off my heat in the condo (NOT b/c I didn’t pay the electric bill – heehee) so I can try to hold my own temperature at room air temperature. They will take my temp often to see how I’m doing. If I do well, they are going to move me into an open crib either tonight or tomorrow. That is one of my last steps before I can go home! Woo Hoo!

Mommy came back tonight for my 6:00p.m. feeding. I didn’t do as well as this morning because I got the hiccups after a burp and couldn’t get started again. So, I had to take a supplement bottle. It’s okay though because I’ll get more practice tomorrow. J

Have a great night!

Love,

Samantha

Tuesday, January 23, 2007

Hi everyone! Today was a pretty slow day. I was concentrating on eating and growing. Mommy came by for my morning feeding to nurse and stayed to visit for a few minutes afterward. The doctor told her that they really weren’t changing anything for me today.

Tonight, Daddy and Mommy came for my 9:00 p.m. feeding. I did a great job, but I didn’t feel like burping. So, my nurse, Ms. Patty, had to come over to try. I FINALLY did it, but I didn’t like it. I just wanna eat, I don’t like that burping thing – it’s not ladylike. J

I’m going to get some rest so I can grow some more. Tonight I weighed 3 pounds 13 ounces again. I’m trying to get closer to 4 pounds so I can get into an open crib. That’s my last obstacle to get over. Once I can hold my own temperature in an open crib without having heart rate drops, I’m good to go! Yipee!!!!

Talk to you tomorrow!

Love,

Sami

Monday, January 22, 2007

Hey guys! I have some AWESOME news! Today, I got to move to the Special Care Nursery! Mommy got the call this afternoon. It’s really cool in here because it’s very spread out and I have a lot of privacy. There is a LOT less noise in this nursery. We took pictures of what it looks like so you can have an idea. So, I’ve moved the condo to a different subdivision! (does this mean I live in a mobile home?)

Mommy came by this morning to nurse for my 9:00 a.m. feeding. We’re really getting the hang of it. I still take a bottle afterward because Mommy doesn’t want to wear me out by nursing for too long.

Tonight, Daddy and Mommy came to my new place – I got to show them where everything is – Ms. Alexi helped me move my stuff and get it all set up. I nursed again and did a great job! I’m telling you, we’re a good team! Daddy gave me my bottle afterward.

The doctor says that I’ll try to go to an open crib in 2 or 3 days. That’s the only thing that I have left to do. The big test is if I can hold my own temperature in an open crib. If I can do that well, it’s looking like I’ll be home soon! Keep your fingers crossed!

Talk to you tomorrow!

Love, Sami

Sunday, January 21, 2007

Hi everybody! Today was a pretty slow day. This morning Daddy and Mommy came to my 9:00 a.m. feeding. I was hungry and did about 15 minutes with Mommy and then took a bottle to "top me off" – nice FULL belly after that. J

I heard about the Saints game – I guess my cheer didn’t help out very much. That’s ok though……..we’ll get ‘em next year! By that time, I’ll have a few cheers under my belt and you’ll probably hear me cheering all the way from your house! I’ll have to get a big girl cheerleader uniform for that one! J

Tonight when Daddy and Mommy came by for my 9:00 p.m. feeding, I really didn’t want to wake up. Mommy tried for a while, but ended up just giving me a bottle instead of nursing. We’ll practice all of that nursing stuff tomorrow. I’m really tired after all that cheering and so is Mommy. We need our rest tonight. They did get to weigh me though. I am now 3 pounds 10 ounces. Woo Hoo! I am also 15 ¾ inches long – growing like a weed! J Life is good here in the condo!

Ms. Alexi started telling Mommy and Daddy stuff about when I’m home and how I’m supposed to sleep and stuff like that. So, it must be getting pretty close to the time when I get to move out of the condo. Isn’t that good news? I’m hoping it will be some time in the next two weeks or so. It’ll be so nice to just be able to move and not worry about all of these wires getting tangled up in my legs when I’m trying to move. It will also be nice when Daddy and Mommy can just pick me up and not have to untangle the wires and swaddle my blankets around them.

Oh well, I’m off to bed. Talk to you tomorrow!

Love,

Samantha

Saturday, January 20, 2007

Howdy folks! Happy Saturday – I hope yours was great! This morning, Daddy and Mommy came to visit for my 9:00 a.m. feeding. They talked to my daytime nurse and planned my bottle/nursing schedule for today. Whenever I eat, I have to take a nap after….I don’t get it. Does that always happen when you growing? Maybe it’s just because I’m getting to eat as much as I want to now. :)

Tonight Daddy and Mommy came back to visit after dinner. Ms. Alexi is back! YAY! She’ll be here tonight, tomorrow and Monday! I’m so happy when I have either Ms. Alexi or Ms. Lynette – they are the BEST ever!!! She let Mommy and Daddy hold me for a while before my nursing session. When we were done, Daddy gave me a bottle to finish me off.

As you can see in my new pictures, I’m gearing up for the big game tomorrow! Daddy got in touch with my seamstress, Ms. Eileen and had her work her magic again…….GEAUX SAINTS!!!!!! Beat da Bears! Don’t forget to look at my new pictures. Daddy and Mommy took them tonight to show my team spirit!

Ahem….here is my cheer for the game tomorrow…..

Sittin’ on a donkey,

Sittin’ on a cactus,

We think your team

Needs a lot of practice!!!!

Gooooooo Saints!

I’m going to sleep now to get some rest for the big game tomorrow! Tah tah for now!

Love,

Sami

Friday, January 19, 2007

Hi everyone! Today was a good day! I got to eat whatever I wanted. J I was getting 30 ml per meal until they changed it to as much as I want. So, this morning, I took full advantage of that at my 9:00 a.m. feeding and had 55 ml. It was like Thanksgiving dinner! The only problem was that when Mommy came to nurse at 12:00 p.m., I didn’t want any milk because I was still full. So, Mommy asked them not to let me have as much at the 6:00 p.m. feeding so we could try again at my 9:00 p.m. feeding. They said that would be fine. However, I had 55 ml again at my 3:00 p.m. feeding…..life is good! J If I keep eating like that, I’ll be home in NO TIME!

Tonight, when Daddy and Mommy came to see me, they held me and we hung out for a while. By the time it was feeding time, I was good and hungry. Needless to say, I had a great nursing session with Mommy. When we were done, I fell right asleep! They left shortly after that. I hope tomorrow goes just as well as today did!

Talk to you soon – have a great weekend!

Love,

Sami

p.s. Don't forget to check out my new pics!!!

Thursday, January 18, 2007

Hi everyone! Today was a lot better than yesterday! Mommy AND Daddy came by for my 12:00 feeding. It was a very pleasant surprise! Mommy and I were having a lesson with the lactation nurse again. I had a little trouble waking up, because I was still a little tired from yesterday, and I got about 15 minutes of practice in. After we were done, Daddy gave me a bottle to supplement the rest of my milk. It was SO good to see him! I missed him a LOT. J He even did the piggies! It was GREAT!!!

My doctor said that I am getting bottle fed for every meal except the one that I have with Mommy each day. He also said that I am no longer getting a certain amount of milk each time – I can have as much as I want. Mommy says that I’m a lucky duck because if she got to do that, she’d be big as a house! Heehee

After dinner, Daddy and Mommy came to visit me again! Mommy got to kangaroo me but Daddy said that he would wait until next time since he’s just getting over his cold. He wore a mask and visited with me when Mommy was done kangarooing. They weighed me – I am now 3 pounds 5 ounces. Woo Hoo!!! I’m making my way toward 4 pounds now!

I’m off to get my rest so I can keep on growing! Talk to you guys tomorrow!

Love,

Samantha

Wednesday, January 17, 2007

Hi everyone! This is going to be a short update because I am pooped, I tell ya. This morning, I had an Occupational Therapy session. The therapist told Mommy that I did a GREAT job. She said that she’s not used to seeing someone so small eat so well. J That was good news!

My doctor said that she wants me to have bottle feeds all the time (except when I’m feeding directly from Mommy)– no more bolus feeds as long as I can tolerate feeding like that. They are moving me along quickly. They even removed my bolus tube[the rubber hose up my nose (a little John Travolta trivia or something like that my dad says)]! Now, Daddy and Mommy can see my whole face with NOTHING attached, taped, or poked in it. They love that!

Then I had to have my eyes checked. My nurse told Mommy that I was pretty ticked off during that. She said she’d never heard me fuss and cry like that before. By the time Mommy got there for my 3:00 feeding, I was zonked out. She could barely wake me for the feeding. I still managed to do 15 minutes with her and then finish with some milk in a bottle. However, I think I slept through the burping, and maybe even some of the feeding.

Because I was so exhausted from my day, Daddy and Mommy didn’t come to visit after dinner. They wanted me to get a lot of rest tonight. Ms. Lynette told them to call whenever they wanted to during the night to check on me.

Well, g’night for now.

Love,

Sami

Tuesday, January 16, 2007

Hi everyone! I had a really good day today. Mommy came by to visit this morning and got to feed me (it was my first time to nurse)! Ms. Nikki, the lactation nurse, said I did a great job for my first time. Since I did such a good job, we get to start doing this once a day. Isn’t that good news?

My doctor said that we are going to start bottles 4 times per day (actually 3 because one time will be nursing). That is good news too! My other 4 feeds will still be bolus feeds through my tube.

This evening, my big brother, Hunter, came to see me. I was so excited to see him! He said that I have grown a lot since last time he’s seen me! He got to watch Ms. Lauren give me a bottle. I was showing off for him and did it like a pro! I think he was impressed. It was so good to see him. I hope he comes back soon!

Tonight, Mommy came by for a visit. We got to Kangaroo for a little over an hour. It was nice. It was actually pretty quiet in there too – for the last few nights, it’s been kinda noisy in my area. She sang me a few songs and we rocked until I fell asleep (which didn’t take very long). Daddy couldn’t make it again because he’s still got a cold. I hope he can come back soon – Mommy said he’s trying really hard to get better because he misses me a lot too. Get well soon, Daddy! I love you!

Ms. Lynette is back tonight! This week, I’ve had Ms. Alexi for 2 nights and now Ms. Lynette for 2 nights – I’m getting REALLY spoiled by them! They are still my favorites! I love them a LOT!

Well, I’m off to bed! Talk to you tomorrow!

Love,

Samantha

Monday, January 15, 2007

Hi everyone! Today was a busy day! This morning, I had my appointment with the Occupational Therapist. She and Mommy did my bottle feeding together. I was a slow starter this morning because I woke up right before the bottle. I was groggy. However, after I got started, I was rocking and rolling! It only took me about 12 minutes to finish my bottle. My OT said I did a very good job on it. She also said that my back isn’t tight anymore. She said I don’t need to do stretches or exercises right now – YAY!!

This afternoon, Mommy and GiGi (Gwen) came to see me. GiGi started off not touching me again because she didn’t want to give me germs, but Mommy got her to hold me. She sang me a pretty song and rocked me for a few minutes. She made Mommy cover her with a freshly washed blanket and wore a mask over her mouth and nose. She said she’d come back to see me again soon. I can’t wait! After she left, Mommy and I rocked and sang songs for a little over an hour. That was nice too. I like all of these little field trips out of the condo the past few days. J

Daddy is still a little sick, so he couldn’t come to see me again today. L I hope he gets well soon, because I miss the guy! He’s doing it for my own good, though. I can’t afford to get sick…….I wanna go home soon! J

That’s all for now! Have a great night and I’ll talk to you all tomorrow!

Love,

Samantha

Sunday, January 14, 2007

Hey, hey, hey! It’s my one month birthday today! Ms. Alexi is back tonight too! When she weighed me, I was 3 pounds 1 ounce……..yep, 3 pounds, 1 ounce. I am also right at 15 inches long. I’m HUGE, I tell ya! J This is such a GREAT day!

Mommy came to see me this afternoon. She got to hold me and give me one of my bolus feeds. We chatted for a little while and then I fell asleep with a full belly.

She came back tonight to Kangaroo me for a while. I slept really hard and barely even noticed when Ms. Alexi had to put me back in my condo. Daddy couldn’t come to see me tonight because he’s got a cold. He didn’t want to get me sick, but told Mommy to tell me how much he loves me and that he’d come back to visit me as soon as he feels better. I hope he can come back soon because I wanna hear my 3 Little Piggies again in Spanish!

My doctor said that she wants to go up on my feeds from 24ml (+calories) to 26ml (+ calories). She also wants to go to 4 bottles per day. I’ll be gaining all kinds of weight in no time if they keep this up! YAY!! J I have another Occupational Therapy appointment on Monday morning and Mommy is coming for that. I hope this appointment goes as well as the last one! It was tough learning how to drink from a bottle, but I think I’m getting the hang of it now. We’re going to work on stretching my back and getting some flexibility going back there. I’ll let you know how that goes when I write tomorrow night.

I’ll talk to you guys tomorrow!

Love,

Samantha

Saturday, January 13, 2007

Hi everyone! Today was a pretty good day. Ms. Lynette said I did very well on my bottle overnight. When she weighed me, I was 2 pounds, 15 ounces. I’m almost at 3 pounds! Woo Hoo!

Mommy came to visit me this afternoon. She stayed for a long time too – I liked it. She fed me, Kangarooed me, then got to feed me again! It wasn’t time for a bottle though – just a bolus feed. That’s ok though. I’m just glad she was here to visit me! She told me that Daddy was going to the Saints game today and about how excited he was to be going to a playoff game! I’ll see him tomorrow. Too bad I didn’t get a new Saints outfit! That could have been their good luck charm! It worked for LSU in the Sugar Bowl! Heehee

I’ll talk to you guys later! Have a great weekend!

Gooooo Saints!!!!!

Love,

Sami

P.S. Tomorrow is my one month old BIRTHDAY!!! Can you believe it…….a whole month already! Time flies when you’re growing like me! J

Friday, January 12, 2007

Hi everyone! Today was a pretty busy day too! Mommy came by this morning to give me my bottle. I finished it in about 20 minutes. She said she was very proud of me. When I finished, we rocked for a while and then she had to run a few errands.

This afternoon, Mommy and Aunt Jaimi came to visit for a little while. Mommy got to feed me, but it wasn’t a bottle this time, it was a bolus feed through my tube. I only get a bottle two times per day right now.

Tonight Ms. Lynette came back! YAY!! I missed her a LOT!!! She let Mommy Kangaroo me for a while and give me my bolus feed again. Daddy has a cough, and didn’t want to give it to me, so he didn’t hold me tonight during Kangaroo time. I missed him, but he’ll be able to do it again soon. Daddy and Mommy were really tired, so Ms. Lynette is going to give me my bath and weigh me tonight. She is also going to give me another bottle at one of my overnight feeds.

Well, I’m off to bed! Talk to you tomorrow!

Love,

Sami

Thursday, January 11, 2007

Hi everyone! I’m exhausted today – I had a very busy day! Mommy got a call this morning from the Occupational Therapist after my session with her. It was supposed to be this afternoon, but they changed it and forgot to call Mommy and Daddy. They were pretty bummed that they missed it. However, they were very excited when she told them that I’d had my first bottle and I did a GREAT job with it. The OT said that it took me about 15 minutes to finish 24ml in the bottle. That is super for my first time! She said I was very motivated and was awake the whole time! She also said that she did an evaluation on me, and my reflexes were very good. She said that the only thing that we would be working on is my back – my upper back is a little tight because I’m in my bed all day. She wants to work on my flexibility by doing stretches and stuff. She said that is totally normal for preemies like me! My next session is Monday morning.

Mommy came for a visit this afternoon. She held me and sang and talked to me for about 40 minutes. I was very tired from my morning work with the OT, so she decided to let me get my rest.

Tonight, Daddy and Mommy came in to bathe me and Kangaroo me for a while. Since they were there at feeding time, Ms. Patty let them give me another bottle! Daddy held me, fed me and burped me. I finished my bottle in less than 20 minutes – I was a lot more tired tonight than I was this morning, so it took me a little longer to finish my bottle. Daddy and Mommy were very excited with my progress on the bottle feeds. While they fed me, Ms. Patty got my new condo ready – we switch out every two weeks. It’s kinda like spring cleaning. So, after I ate, I had a nice clean condo to return to. Thank you Ms. Patty! I’m sure I’ll sleep very well tonight with all of the action I had today! Have a great night!

Love,

Samantha

p.s. check out my new pictures in the photo gallery

Wednesday, January 10, 2007

Hello everyone! Today I had a lot of time out of the condo. I think this is the most time out since I’ve been born! Mommy came in this afternoon and got to hold me and feed me at the same time. After that, I got to stay out in the rocker with her and take a nap. That was nice! I was out for about an hour and a half!

My doctor said that the only change that she was making in my care was that she wanted me to schedule an appointment with the occupational therapist to begin training and exercises for "nippling" – which will be starting soon. Other than that, everything will stay the same. My appointment is Thursday at 3:00 p.m. I’ll let you guys know how it goes on my message tomorrow night.

Tonight, Daddy and Mommy Kangarooed me for about an hour and a half then got to bathe and weigh me. I still weigh 2 pounds 14 ounces, but I gained 10 grams since last night. That is good news. My nurse, Ms. Patty said that Daddy and Mommy are "old hats" at bathing me and weighing me. Daddy even changed my bedding while Mommy finished her turn Kangarooing me. They are getting some practice in for when I come home. I get so comfortable when I sleep on them like that - I love those guys!

Tah tah for now –

Love,

Samantha

Tuesday, January 09, 2007

Hi everyone! I had a great day today! Mommy came by this morning to visit me. We got to rock and she hummed and sang to me a little. She got to hold me as she fed me my 11:00 a.m. meal. After I ate, she held me for a few more minutes, put me back in my condo, and watched me until I fell asleep. Once I get that big dose of milk, I’m ready for a nap. So, I don’t stay awake for too long after a feeding these days.

When the doctor called this afternoon, she said that they weren’t going to change anything today. They want me to concentrate on gaining weight. J

Tonight, Daddy and Mommy got to Kangaroo me, bathe me, weigh me, and feed me. It was a very busy visit! I weigh 2 pounds 14 ounces. One more ounce and I’m officially one pound heavier than when I was born! Daddy continued with my Spanish lessons tonight by doing "This Little Piggy" to me and singing songs from when he was little. I’m trying to learn them so I can join in, but I think I’ll need to hear them a few more times before I catch on. Keep ‘em coming, Daddy!

Have a great night!

Love,

Samantha

Monday, January 08, 2007

Hi everyone! Today I have some pretty good news! I am gaining weight, I tell ya – 2 pounds 12 ounces! Mommy and Daddy are so proud of me! Because I am gaining like I’m supposed to, they’ve switched me feeds to bolus like I told you guys yesterday. I’m tolerating them just fine so far. Daddy and Mommy were able to give me my first round this afternoon. I got to suck on my nuk while they fed me so I can get used to eating and sucking at the same time. It was neat. I got really full and tired when they were done – it was my first real "milk drunk". If I continue to do well, they might try a bottle soon! Keep your fingers crossed!

We get to Kangaroo tomorrow, so, I’m getting my rest tonight. I want to be able to enjoy my Kangaroo time with Mommy and Daddy. Talk to you tomorrow!

Love,

Sami

Sunday, January 07, 2007

Hi everyone! This weekend has flown by in the condo. I think it’s because I got a lot of rest. Mommy came by with Gigi and they were telling me how my baby shower was. They told me about all of the wonderful things that I got from my Baton Rouge friends and family. Aunt Jaimi and Aunt Barbie threw such a nice party for me – thank you…. I love you! Thank you everyone else for the awesome gifts too – I can’t wait to get home to use my new "stuff". J

My doctor said that either tomorrow or Tuesday they would switch to bolus feeds – that means one "big" milk meal every 3 hours instead of continuous feeds like I’m on now. They would still use my tube to do it, but they said that they’d try to let me "nipple" once per day once I get used to it. I can only practice that once per day at the beginning because they don’t want me to burn too many calories. I need all of the calories I can get to gain weight.

Tonight after dinner when Mommy and Daddy came to visit, they got to hold me for a while. We just visited and they chatted with me. It was nice.

Well, I’m gonna hit the sack – talk to you tomorrow.

Love,

Sami

Saturday, January 6, 2007

Hey! Today was a slow day again. Mommy came by to visit before she left for "Aunt" Monique’s wedding shower in Lockport. She talked to me for a little while, and hung out at the condo for a few minutes. She said she’d try to get back in time to see me tonight, but if she didn’t, she’d see me tomorrow.

My doctor called and said that they would keep my feeds the same today and once I gain a little more weight, they would change to feeding me one big serving of milk every 3 hours instead of continuous feedings like I’m getting now. He said that would probably happen this coming week. That’s going to be different – it might take a little getting used to. He also said that I gained 1/3 of an ounce last night which puts me at 2 pounds 9 ounces. Woo Hoo!!!!

Daddy worked very hard in my room today. Mommy said he was "busting it" to get my room all ready for my homecoming! That guy rocks!

That’s about it for today – I’ll talk to you tomorrow.

Love,

Samantha

Friday, January 05, 2007

Hello everyone! It was a quiet day today in the NICU. Mommy came by to see me this afternoon, took my temperature, and changed my diaper. We chatted for a little while, and I got sleepy. She let me sleep and just cupped my head and one of my feet – it keeps me comfy and warm when she does that.

My doctor told Mommy that they weren’t going to change anything today. J

Daddy and Mommy came to visit me tonight after dinner, but they were a little later than usual. They went to pick up my bed tonight. I can’t wait to see what they’ve done with the place. J Since they came to see me later, they didn’t stay for a long visit – they held me for a few minutes, talked to me a little bit, tucked me in, and left right as I was drifting off to sleep for the night (or at least a few hours).

Have a great weekend!

Love,

Sami

Thursday, January 04, 2007

Hey folks! It was a busy day in the NICU today. Three of the other babies in my area moved out and went to the Special Care Nursery. That’s the next step before going home. I’ll get there soon – I promise! My doctor said that they would move my feeds up to 7.5 ml per hour and add calories to make 24 calories. She said that they would keep everything else the same.

Mommy came to visit me today and got to stay a long time. She can drive now, so I figure she’s going to be here a lot more. The first time she was there, I was pretty tired and stayed sleeping – she went to run a few errands because she knows I need my rest. When she came back, we got to Kangaroo for about an hour and a half. While we did that, I could smell my Mommy’s scent and it made me want to suck on my nuk. I’m learning how to do that, y’know – that means I’ll be feeding like I’m supposed to soon b/c I am learning how to suck, breathe and swallow altogether. It’s pretty tricky, but I’m trying really hard! After we Kangarooed, Ms. Rhonda put me back in the condo and put the nuk in my mouth. I even held it with my hand. I couldn’t decide whether I wanted the nuk or my thumb, so I did both. Mommy thought that was too cute and took a picture (of course). It was the first time she’d seen me take my nuk like that. Check out the pictures! They didn’t have me dressed yet – I’m so embarrassed!

Daddy came to visit me tonight after dinner. When he got here, I was awake and looking around. He got to take my temperature, change my diaper, and weigh me. I weigh 2 pounds 8 ounces! He dressed me in a pink outfit. He got to hold me while my nurse, Ms. Crystal, changed my blankets and my snuggle. He left after they were finished. He told me he loves me and that he’d be back to see me tomorrow (all in Spanish, of course).

After all of that action, I’m gonna hit the sack early tonight! Hasta luego!

Love,

Sami

Wednesday, January 3, 2007

Hey everyone! This morning Daddy came to see me bright and early because he said he was leaving for the LSU game and wanted to come to see me before he left. He’s great! He got me dressed and took some pictures of me. He told me that Mommy would be by later and that he loved me.

Mommy came to visit me this afternoon and we got to Kangaroo for 2 hours. My doctor said that they are going to go up on my caffeine b/c last night my heart rate dropped once. So, they will up the caffeine for 5 days and see what happens. My feeds will stay the same again today. We had a really good visit.

I hope you like my gameday outfit and blanket. Be sure to check out my pictures that Daddy added in today. I think one of the boys on the other end of the room will cheer with me b/c his Dad came by today and he was all decked out in LSU colors too. We seemed to be the only 2 real fans in the place (besides a few of the nurses). I am gonna take a nap so I can be ready for the game.

Geaux Tigers!

Love,

Samantha

 

 

Tuesday, January 2, 2007

Hello everyone! This morning, Mommy and Gigi came to visit me for a few minutes. Mommy got to hold me for a little while. Gigi still doesn’t want to touch me because she’s afraid to give me germs. She told me that she can’t wait to hold and kiss me, but she’ll wait until I’m a little bigger. That’s ok – she still got to sing to me while Mommy held me. I really enjoyed that. J

The doctor called and said that I’m doing a great job and they aren’t going to change anything today. My feeds will stay at 7 ml per hour and they will still add calories.

Tonight when Daddy and Mommy visited me, they changed me into my tailgating outfit for the game tomorrow. They had it specially made for me by Ms. Eileen. She ROCKS! Wait until you see my gameday outfit! We’re gonna rock the NICU! I’ll start the cheering in my condo, and hopefully it will catch on. I’ve already been practicing my cheers!

Make sure you stop by the photo gallery to see my tailgating outfit! It was a short visit, but that’s ok, I’m very tired today. I think Daddy and Mommy were too. We’ll have a longer visit later this week. J I can’t wait – I love those guys! I think they love me too! I can’t wait to go home and have my own room. That way, I can see them whenever I want to.

Well, that’s all for now. I need my rest for the big game tomorrow. Talk to you later –

GEAUX TIGERS!!!!

Love,

Sami

January 1, 2007

Happy New Year folks! This morning, Mommy and Gigi (Gwen) came to see me. Since I had an audience, I was performing. I was waving, swinging my arms and legs, sneezing, yawning, and just being generally cute. I even crossed my legs at the ankle and turned to look at them for a cute little pose. Gigi ate it up (so did Mommy). My nurse said that I tried to make a getaway a few times last night by turning sideways and scooting toward the door. She had to keep repositioning me.

When the doctor called for my update today, she told Mommy that I am doing very well and that the only thing that they will change today is my feeds. They are going up to 7 ml per hour (still adding calories too). They are trying to pack the ounces on me! J

Tonight when Daddy and Mommy came to visit me, we got to Kangaroo for 2 hours again. They each got an hour. That was fun – I was crashed out. Daddy and Mommy each sang to me during their turn. It was nice. I guess I’ll need to learn those songs so I can join in when I get home. When they weighed me tonight, I weighed 2 pounds 6 ounces. Ms. Lynette said that it’s probably because after Daddy and Mommy left last night, I had a really messy diaper (which is probably where the other few ounces came from last night). It’s ok though, I’ll get those few ounces back in "real" weight soon. I’m eating like a pro now. J

I’m off to bed now. Talk to you tomorrow.

Love,

Samantha

p.s. Please checkout the picture of me ringing in the New Year(thanks Ms. Lynette, you rock)

Sunday, December 31, 2006

Good news everyone! My doctor (Dr. Dunbar is on today) called Mommy and told her that I’m tolerating my feeds and they are going to add 22 calories to the milk to help with my weight gain! He also said that he is going to take out my pic line (VERY deep IV under my arm). I can’t WAIT for that – thank GOODNESS it will be out for the LSU game on Wednesday because a girl’s gotta cheer! J Geaux Tigers!

When Mommy and Daddy came to visit me tonight, they got to bathe me and weigh me. Guess who weighs 2 pounds 8 oz – ME THAT’S WHO!!!!! On Wednesday, I was only 2 pounds 1 oz. When Ms. Lynette measured me, I was 14.5 inches (up from 14.25 inches on Wednesday). I thought Daddy and Mommy were going to cut a flip in the middle of NICU! They were some happy people, I tell ya. I really like making them happy like that. So, I think I’ll just keep on eating and gaining!

Have a great New Years Eve!

Love,
Samantha

Saturday, December 30, 2006

Happy weekend everyone! Mommy and Daddy came to see me this afternoon. They got to take my temperature and change my diaper. After they left, my doctor called to tell them that they are going to stop my IV fluids and just feed me milk through my tube. That is great news b/c that means I’m on my way to eating what I need to in order to move out in a few weeks! I still have a few steps left before I’m ready for that, but it’s one step closer to my goal of going home with Daddy and Mommy. YAY!!

The doctor also said that they are going to up my feeds TWICE today – 5.5 ml per hour during the day and 6 ml per hour tonight (starting at 4:00 a.m.). If I tolerate that well, they will start to add calories to my milk. I should begin to put on some weight when they do that – WOO HOO!!! My parents are THRILLED with my progress!!!

Tonight when they came to see me for their night visit, they got to Kangaroo me again! Daddy got to do a whole hour and then Mommy got to do a whole hour. I kept my temperature up where it was supposed to be (around 98.5)– that’s why they let me stay out for 2 hours. J After the Kangaroo Care tonight, Ms. Lynette dressed me in a pink preemie top and put my pink gingham blanket underneath me. I am looking all girlie – Mommy wants to take pictures of me tomorrow so Daddy can put them up on the website for an update. J

This was a very good day! Talk to you tomorrow!

Love,
Samantha

Friday, December 29, 2006

Howdy folks! Today was also a good day. Mommy and Ms. Morgan came to see me this afternoon. I was very sleepy, but I tried to open my eyes a little bit for them. Ms. Morgan was very nice and she told Mommy how pretty I am. I like hearing that! J

My doctor called Mommy for my daily update and told her that I’m still doing very well on breathing. Mommy and Daddy were VERY happy about that. I haven’t had to go back on the nasal canula so far. Hopefully, I can stay off if it for the rest of my visit in NICU. The doctor also told Mommy that I am tolerating my feeds like a pro. They are going to up my feeds to 4.5ml per hour.

Tonight when Daddy and Mommy came to visit, they were very happy because Ms. Lynette is my nurse again. She and Ms. Alexi are their favorite night nurses. They are my favorites too! They were also happy because they got to bathe me again. They are getting pretty good at that. It’s sort of like "tag team" bath time. They each have their own part to handle. I think I heard them say that tomorrow night they will get to Kangaroo me again. I can’t wait! J Daddy also did "This Little Piggy" in Spanish on my toes. That was funny. I really like that. I was wide awake for most of the visit – they were laughing at me wiggling in my snuggle and kicking my feet all around. They still have a thing for my feet. I don’t get it. J

Have a great night and I’ll talk to you tomorrow.

Love,

Samantha

Thursday, December 28, 2006

Hello Everyone!

Today I had a great day! I’m still breathing totally on my own (which is awesome)! My doctor told Mommy that I am doing a fantastic job on that! He also said that they would go up again on my feedings from 2.5 ml to 3.5 ml. Pretty soon, I’ll be gaining all KINDS of ounces! Daddy and Mommy are VERY proud of me! When Mommy came to visit me this afternoon, she got to take my temperature and change my diaper. I was awake for a little while, but I had the "sleepy eyes" going on. Maybe when they come to see me tonight I’ll be wide awake.

When Mommy and Daddy came to visit me after dinner, Ms. Kathy was moving me into a new isolette/incubator. So, now I have a fresh condo – it was like early spring cleaning! She was almost done when they got to there for their visit. Both of them were excited because they got to Kangaroo me again. This time, Mommy got to do a whole hour AND Daddy got to do a whole hour. I really like that quiet time when I can just cuddle with them. It’s all warm and toasty and comfy when we do Kangaroo care. I love it!!! I think they like it as much as I do. J

I’ll talk to you tomorrow! Have a great night –

Love,
Samantha

Wednesday, December 27, 2006

Hola! It’s me, Sami! This morning, Mommy and VZ (Verna) came to visit me at the condo. The doctor told Mommy that my head ultrasound from yesterday looks very good and that they are trying to remove my nasal cannula, which blows a little oxygen into my lungs, to see if I’m ready to do it all on my own. They removed it at 8:15 a.m. As of 1:00 this afternoon, I was still doing fine. She said that this is a trial just to see if I’m ready and that lots of times, preemies go on and off of this a few times before they are truly ready to go it alone. I’ll let you know how that goes. Since I’m doing so well on my feedings, they have upped them from 1.5 ml per hour to 2.5 ml per hour. YAY!!

VZ talked to me and took some pictures of me to bring back to California with her – it’s my first modeling portfolio! I was wide awake and she loved the way I wave for the camera and made "sweet eyes" for her. J

Tonight, Daddy and Mommy came to visit me after dinner. They got to bathe me and put lotion on my skin where it is dry. They also got to change my diaper – I didn’t leave any presents tonight – heehee. When my nurse, Ms. Kathy, checked my residuals from my feedings, she said there were barely any there – GREAT news! She also weighed me and I now weigh 2 pounds 3 ounces. Go me, go me, go me (complete w/ the cabbage patch).

Since they bathed me tonight, we couldn’t kangaroo because it’s not good for my temperature to do all of it in one night. So, I have something to look forward to tomorrow night – Mommy and Daddy are looking forward to it too!

Be sure to check out my two new pictures without my nose cannula! Mommy and Daddy like it because you can see more of my face! J

I’m off to bed for the night…….sweet dreams!

Love,

Samantha

Tuesday, December 26, 2006

Hello folks! This morning, Mommy and Gee Gee (Gwen) came to visit me in my new area. I was wide awake – this was the first time Gee Gee has seen my eyes open. She really enjoyed that. She had fun singing to me and told me that she can’t wait to hug and kiss me. My doctor told Mommy that I am still doing very well on my feedings and they are going to up them to 2ml per hour. J I also had a head ultrasound today – the ultrasound tech said that everything looks fine, but we’ll get the report from the radiologist for the official results.

My daytime nurse, Ms. Celeste, said that I’m trying to scoot out of my little snuggle wrap that they use to swaddle me. It’s my feisty side coming out. J

Tonight, Daddy and Mommy came to visit me after dinner. Daddy got to Kangaroo me tonight. He liked it just like Mommy did and so did I. It was a really quiet visit because they don’t really talk when we are bonding like that. My night nurse, Ms. Kathy, checked my residuals from my feedings and I am doing a great job! Mommy and Daddy said that is excellent and that they are very proud of me! I love making them happy like that!

Well, I’m off to bed for the night. Talk to you tomorrow!

Love,

Sami

Monday, December 25, 2006

Hello everyone! Merry Christmas! I hope you all had as good a day as I did. I graduated today! My day nurse, Ms. Ashley, called Mommy this afternoon to tell her that since I am more stable, I can move from a level 3 unit to a level 2 unit. That means I’m doing very well. I am tolerating my feeds like I am supposed to and I am still rocking and rolling on my breathing! Merry Christmas Daddy and Mommy! That Santa dude ROCKS – he got me new "property" for my condo! It’s a corner "lot" too! J This just goes to show you that being good gets you good stuff!

When Mommy and Daddy came to visit me tonight, I got to show off my new area! They got to change my diaper – last night I had a present for Daddy in there, and tonight Mommy got a present in the diaper. I believe in sharing the love, and since Mommy felt left out I really gave her a gave her a little extra. Ms. Alexi let Mommy begin Kangaroo Care tonight. That’s when she has to wear a button down shirt and we hide behind some folding partitions and she unbuttons her shirt and Ms. Alexi puts me on her chest in just a diaper. She covers me with a Kangaroo blanket(and a few extra blankets to keep off the draft) and I use Mommy’s body heat to stay warm and I can get in tune with her heartbeat like we used to when I was in her tummy. It was so comfy resting like that – I LOVED it and so did Mommy. I heard her tell Daddy that he gets a turn tomorrow night. He gets to share too. This is gonna be fun. I like Kangaroo Care. Hunter came by to visit again too – he wanted to tell me Merry Christmas! He’s the best big brother ever!

This was as fun as last night – I hope all of our visits can be like this from now on. I like giving Daddy and Mommy good news!

Have a very Merry Christmas night – heaux heaux heaux! I’ll check in tomorrow night after Daddy and Mommy visit. TTYL -

Love,

Sami

p.s. Daddy fell asleep and didn't get this in until Tuesday, get with the program Dad the people need to read this GREAT news!

Sunday, Christmas Eve 2006

Hello everyone! Mommy and Gee Gee (Gwen) came to visit me this morning. I was sleeping very soundly. Mommy wanted to put my red Christmas blanket in my condo, but she decided to wait until tonight, so Daddy could help. The doctor said that I tolerated my feeds very well and they are going to up me to 1ml per hour. That’s where I started having toleration issues last time. So, please say a little prayer that I do ok this time. I can’t wait for Daddy and Mommy to come tonight! I’m ready for the blanket renovation! I love getting new scenery! J

When Daddy and Mommy came to visit tonight, they told me that Santa Claus was coming tonight! I can’t wait to meet that guy – word on the street is that he gives cool gifts to little boys and girls who are being good. I’m trying my hardest to be good all 2 hours that I’m awake each day. That’s tough stuff, but so far, so good. J My nurse, Ms. Alexi, let Daddy and Mommy bathe me and change my diaper (I had a special present for Daddy in there – heehee). Then, they weighed me. I weigh 2.1 pounds. It’s an ounce less than last time, but it’s all good. Next, they got to hold me again – that was cool! Guess what else? My big brother, Hunter, was there too. So he got in on all the fun too! This was a fun visit! They even dressed me up in a candy cane striped bow and a Santa hat! My condo got a renovation too – I got a red blanket that says "Let it Snow" in the corner. I think this was my favorite visit with them so far!

Ms. Alexi said that I had minimal residuals again – which is VERY good. Maybe they’ll up my feeds tomorrow. I’ll have to see what happens when my doctor comes by in the morning.

Well, I’d better get to sleep so Santa can make it to my condo tonight. I hope the night owl who lives next door stops w/ the crying already – I don’t want him to blow it for the rest of us who are trying to be good.

Make sure you check out my new pictures from our visit tonight! Merry Christmas! Feliz Navidad!

Have a great night – HO HO HO!!

Love,

Samantha

Saturday, December 23, 2006

Hi everyone! This morning, Mommy and GeeGee (Gwen-we’re trying different names for her b/c she can’t decide what she wants to be called) came to visit me at the condo. My nurse, Ms. Lynda, said I had a good night. My doctor told Mommy that we started my feeds again at 1/2ml of milk per hour to see how I do with it this time. Keep your fingers crossed.

When Mommy called for an update around 5:00, my nurse, Ms. Lynda, said that when she checked my stomach, I didn’t have any residuals so far from the feedings – that is great news! She also said that I did a small #2…….also very good news. That means that my system is kicking in! J When my belly feels good, I feel good, life is good!

Tonight, Daddy and Mommy came to visit after dinner. VZ (Verna) and Uncle Steve came to see me too! They came in all the way from California to see me (oh yeah, and to visit for Christmas)! When they got here to visit me, I was wide awake and alert – VZ did her head to toe assessment……..I passed with flying colors! J We played for a while then Mommy changed my diaper solo – she did very well.

Have a great night!

Love,

Samantha

Friday, December 22, 2006 (evening)

Hey everyone! This morning, Mommy, Uncle Marc and Aunt Nikki came to see me. They got to see me in my new outfit! It was nice not to flash people for a change. I finally look like a little girl, which is nice. I’m the only girl in my area, so I like to look cute for the boys next door. J Mommy took some pictures of me.

Tonight when Mommy and Daddy came to see me, I was sleeping soundly. They talked to me for a while, then had to go home for tonight. It was pretty quiet in the condo tonight. We all needed some rest today. I didn’t have any changes in my schedules or settings. Tomorrow, they will try ½ ml again. Keep your fingers crossed!

Don’t forget to check out my new pictures!

Have a great night!

Love,
Samantha

Friday, December 22, 2006 (morning)

Good morning everyone! I’m still very fired up about Mommy and Daddy holding me for the first time last night. It was even more comfy than my gel pillow! I love that rocking stuff. It’s neat!

Daddy and Mommy called this morning (as usual) at around 4:30 to check on me. Ms. Alexi told her that I wasn’t tolerating my food very well because I had a little blood in my stomach when she pulled some of the air out of my belly. It happened while Mommy and Daddy were there last night too. The doctor wanted to keep trying one more cycle to see if it was the milk or irritation causing it. Evidently, it was the milk – my little tummy isn’t ready yet. So, the doctor told Ms. Alexi to give me Zantac. They are going to put my feeds on hold until tomorrow.

Since they have made my nose prongs smaller, they are pumping a liter of oxygen in also to help with my lungs and breathing. Overall, I’m doing very well in that area.

Ms. Alexi told Mommy that she dressed me in big girl clothes and put a bow in my hair. Daddy and Mommy will hardly recognize me in my new cool clothes! J I will be a sight for sore eyes!

I’ll talk to you more later today!

Love,

Sami

Thursday, December 21, 2006

Hola! This morning Mommy and Pops (Carroll) came to visit me at the condo. My doctor told Mommy that I had a great night! They are going to "up" my feeds to 1 ml per hour now. That is very good news. Hopefully, I am ready for that and they can keep going up on my feeds. The doctor also took out my big white tube that was across my face and replaced it with a smaller one. This one will pump a little less into my lungs to keep them expanded and it will also cut down on the air in my stomach. Mommy was happy because she got to see my face and my head b/c they took off my little hat too! Take a look at my dark hair! It looks like it’s gonna be dark like my Daddy’s and wavy like Mommy’s. I’m taking a nap on my belly for some tummy time today. This is the first time I get to rest on my belly – it is a nice change of pace. It was so relaxing on my gel pillow (more like a mattress since I’m so small). J

Hunter (my big brother) came by to see me again today. I opened my eyes to get a quick look at him. I was tired, but I wanted to see what he looks like. I wonder if I’ll grow up to look like him!

Tonight was also very eventful during Daddy and Mommy’s visit. One of my favorite nurses, Ms. Alexi, has me tonight. She let Mommy and Daddy HOLD ME!!!! That was WAY cool! It was the first time I got to meet them "up close and personal"! It was GREAT!!!!! Daddy sang to me in Spanish and Mommy talked and whispered to me. We got to rock in the wooden rocker for a few minutes. I opened my eyes for them too because I wanted to see them up close too! I had a lot to see today! I can’t WAIT to have "rocker time" at home!

Check out my new pictures on the weblog site. It was an awesome day! I’ll talk to you all tomorrow. Have a great night!

Love,

Sami

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Hi everyone! My doctor made me get an x-ray today – my stomach was looking bloated. When they did the x-ray, they didn’t find anything but air from the c-pap and a little residual stuff from my feedings. So, that was good news. They are keeping my feeding schedule the same today as it was yesterday. That is also good news. The doctor told Mommy that they aren’t really changing any of my settings or schedules today. She was happy about that. They are trying to get my stomach used to the feedings.

Mommy and Pops came to visit me again this afternoon. They talked to me and liked that my arterial line was taken out of my right hand/arm. Now I can move it around freely. I still have my line in my left arm, but at least one arm can move around. J

After dinner, Daddy and Mommy came back to see me. They had a very eventful visit. First, they giggled as they watched my foot wave around in the air. I still don’t know why they love seeing my feet wave in the air, but they laugh every time I do it. After a while, they watched them do my blood gas test – Mommy didn’t like that because she had to watch while they pricked my heel. I didn’t like that either – I let out a tiny little cry. After that, they were able to watch while my nurse, Ms. Shannon, weighed me. I’m still 2.2 pounds. No gain, no loss. Then, I really got mad (few more tiny little cries) because they gave me a bath. Daddy and Mommy loved that they were there for bath time. Once I was nice and tucked in on my comfy gel pillow (life is good in the condo), I opened my eyes and looked at Mommy and Daddy. I think they almost cut a flip. I’ve never seen two people look so happy before. But then, I haven’t seen that many people in my one week of life (especially since I had on my shades for most of the week). They look like very nice people – I think I’ll keep ‘em! J

After all of that action, I’m exhausted - so, I’ll sign off for now – Adios!

Te Amo,

Sami

December 19 (evening)

Hi everyone! Today was a busy day in the condo. My nurse, Ms. Tillie, changed my feeding "line" from my umbilical cord to a spot under my arm. She had to do that so I wouldn’t get an infection from leaving the first one in the same place too long. Ms. Tillie also let Mommy wipe off my leg with a wipe because I had some yellow stuff on it where they were trying to put my new feeding line. Mommy liked doing that because it was almost like giving me a small bath.

The doctor tried to feed me a tiny bit of milk today in my tube. I get ½ cc per hour. So far, so good. They check me every 4 hours to see if I am tolerating it or not. I seem to be doing fine with it. I like milk almost as much as my mommy!

Pops (Carroll) came to see me with Mommy this afternoon. They visited with me and got to see my new "girlie" blanket. It has pink and green stripes on it. Ms. Lynette put it under me last night. Mommy also brought me some girl clothes to put on when I get my tubes out. She even brought me a fluffy pink blanket for the top of my condo. We put it on top when they aren’t there to see me because the light gets a little too bright sometimes. It’s cool because I’m the only one with a fluffy pink roof! J

Today, I also got to take my "shades" off because my jaundice is better and they turned off my light. I had to leave the little velcro dots on the side of my head in case I have to go back under the light later on.

My big brother came to see me again today. I can’t wait to hang out with him at home in a few weeks. He rocks!

Tonight, Daddy and Mommy came back after dinner. They brought me a "Baby’s First Christmas" Santa hat to put on the outside of the condo. They also had the nurse do my footprints again. I don’t know what it is about them, but they are CRAZY about my feet! They took some more pictures of me and said that they’d put them on the website. You can go to the weblog to see my new pics.

After that much action today, I’m sleepy. I’ll talk to you guys tomorrow! Have a great night!

Love,

Samantha

Monday, December 18, 2006

Hey everyone! Mommy and Daddy came by to tell me good night. They get to go home to sleep tonight, but they promised to be here to see me tomorrow. Tonight, Ms. Lynette and Ms. Alexi let me have a few minutes without my glasses again because they know Mommy likes to see my eyes.

My big brother, Hunter, came to see me today too. He was helping Mommy and Daddy move out of the hospital room. They had a LOT of stuff. He made a special trip to my "condo" just to tell me hello. I love that guy! J

Daddy says that my guestbook is up and running thanks to Uncle Steve (and Aunt Jaimi and Zac). Please sign in and leave me a message. That way, Mommy and Daddy can read them to me.

I’ll write more tomorrow – I’m getting sleepy ……have a great night!

Love,

Sami

Monday, Dec 18, 2006 (afternoon)

Hola! Daddy started my Spanish lessons this morning! I’m trying to get this living outside the womb thing going on and Mommy and Daddy are teaching me English and Spanish – am I going to be smart, or what?

My nurse, Ms. Cherie, let Mommy help change my diaper today. She even let us take off my light and glasses for a few minutes so Daddy and Mommy could see my face for a few minutes. They were very happy about that. I am very happy and I’m getting a lot of rest.

While they were visiting me, Mama and Amigo (my grandparents) came to see me too. I feel very special and loved when Mommy and Daddy tell me about everyone asking about me and praying for me. They also told me about all of the flowers and gifts that have come in since Thursday. Thank you all so much for making me feel so welcomed! I love all of you and can’t wait to see you very soon!

I’ll let you know how I’m doing later on today…….until then…….ADIOS AMIGOS!!!

Love,

Samantha

December 18, 2006 (morning)

Good morning!

I have good news today! I weigh 2.2 pounds – YAY!!! Mommy and Daddy are VERY happy! This might be a little too much information for some people, but I had my first dirty diaper today! Life is good, belly feels better! I’ll send more information later today!

Love,
Sami

Dec 17

9:00 p.m.

Hello everyone!

Mommy and Daddy just left for a little while. My nurses told them a few things about me. They said that I was trying to start on a little bit of milk (one or two drops) and it might take another day or two before I’m actually ready for that. My stomach is a little bloated right now from trying the milk.

However, I am still doing very well on my breathing and I have a half an hour of caffeine treatment to remind me to breathe.

My nurses will weigh me tonight and give me a short bath. I think I’ll sleep well after that. It’s a lot of work being here, but it will be worth it when I get to go home with Daddy and Mommy.

There are a few new pictures of me in the weblog section. You will see my new friend, Ally (the sock), a picture of me with my Mommy’s hand, and a picture of me holding my Daddy’s wedding ring. A few people have asked for a point of reference so they can see me grow.

Have a wonderful night! I know I will!

Love,
Samantha

December 17, 2006

Hi everyone!

I am now all moved in to my new pod in NICU. Daddy and Mommy come to see me every few hours to talk to me and to see how I am doing. I seem to be doing well – that’s what the nurses tell Mommy and Daddy when they come in. My nurses also tell them that I’m very feisty and that I like to kick my feet a lot. We will be giving you updates on my new website throughout my time here at the hospital. I hope you will come to visit my website often! I hope to see you all very soon!

Love,
Sami

Sunday, February 11, 2007

Hi everyone! This weekend was a pleasant one. I spent a lot of time with Daddy on Saturday because Mommy went to Lockport for a baby shower for me. She came back with all KINDS of good things for me. She said there was a big surprise there too…..my VZ flew in from California just for the shower! That’s super cool! My aunts from Washington and California sent some goodies for me too! I tell you what…….I’m going to be one styling chic when I can get out of the house, thanks to all of the people who have given me clothes! At this point, I don’t think I’ll have to wear things twice before I grow out of them. I’d better not get used to that though, because when I get older, I know it won’t be that way………who am I kidding? I’m the princess, and I’ll get what I want if my Daddy has anything to say about it. J

Today, we tried to get all the shower gifts washed and put away, but there is still some left to do. Mommy and I will get to that this week. The Home Health nurse is supposed to come by tomorrow afternoon, so we have to get a move on in the living room tomorrow morning to get it looking decent for her to come in. It’s amazing how much stuff one little person requires!

I get to go on a "field trip" on Monday, but not a fun one. I have to go back to the dumb ol’ eye doctor. I can’t stand that. I’ll let you know how that goes when I get back. One day, my "field trip" will be to Lockport, or to the beach……..I can’t wait for those days! I’m already dreaming of that even though I don’t know what they look like yet. I’m just going off of what Mommy tells me about them. They sound pretty neat though.

Well, I’m off to eat now……..

Talk to you soon –

Love,

Sami

Thursday, February 7-8, 2007

Hi everyone! I have a 2 day update for you! Night before last, I had a tummy ache all night and I kept Mommy up – it wasn’t pretty. The next morning, Daddy made a Walgreen’s run to pick up some magic drops called Mylicon! My pediatrician said that the drops would help, and they REALLY did. Those drops are my new best friend. J However, since Mommy was up all night, she made herself some coffee in the morning. She usually doesn’t drink coffee, so it made her zing all over this place all day. And I was a victim of ……..coffee breath. It was not pleasant, I tell ya. She breathed that nasty stuff on me all day. When Daddy got home from work, he told Mommy to go get some rest and he took care of me until the wee hours. Mommy said that’s the most sleep she’s gotten since I was born and that it ROCKED!!! He’s very considerate like that. Mommy and I both appreciate it – if Mommy’s happy, days around here are great. If she’s zinging from coffee, I don’t appreciate the byproducts. J Let’s hope there aren’t too many of those all nighters.

Today, the Home Health nurse, Ms. Kerry, came by to check on me. She said I weigh 4 pounds 5 ounces again. It can’t be……I eat too much to have stayed the same since last time. Oh well, we’ll see how it goes next week when they come back to switch my monitor.

We have started to mix formula in with my milk so that it will be easier on my tummy when I have to switch to all formula bottles. That will probably be next week. We are trying NeoSure first because that’s what the hospital sent home to add calories to my bottles. However, we’re gonna try Enfamil if that doesn’t work out. Today, we’re doing 1/3 formula per bottle…..so far, so good. This weekend, we’ll switch to ½ formula, 2/3 formula. We hope it’s an easy transition for my tummy. Keep your fingers crossed!

My boyfriend, Zac, (who I haven’t actually met face to face yet) gave me some ribbons for my hair as a Valentine’s Day prize. He’s cool. "Aunt" Jaimi dropped ‘em off at the back door. I waved at her through the window, but I couldn’t actually visit with her. Anyway, back to Zac……our Mommies have started to plan our first date…….it’ll probably be around Easter. I’ll be able to see people by then – I hope. J

Well, I’m off to eat and sleep – talk to you soon –

Love,

Sami

Friday, February 23, 2007

Saturday, February 24, 2007

Sunday, February 25, 2007

Hi everyone! Guess what….Friday was my actual due date. I was supposed to arrive then – who knew I had a mind of my own and would be here 2 months early! Mommy took pictures of me to show what I look like on my due date – check ‘em out in the photo gallery.

GiGi and Pops came to visit me today. Gigi and I rocked and she got to love on me for a while. I can tell I’m gonna like this grandma thing.

On Saturday, I got to hang with my Daddy all day and night because Mommy was in Lafayette. He and I chatted and sang songs and got to practice our Spanish. It was really fun! I like hanging out with Daddy.

On Sunday, Mommy came back and the 3 of us hung out. When she got home, Daddy had me all clean and smelling good and dressed in one of her favorite onesies. She smoggled all over my cheeks. I think I’m gonna be chapped……

It was a great weekend!

Talk to you soon –

Love,

Samantha

Wednesday, February 21, 2007

Thursday, February 22, 2007

Hi everyone! Wednesday was a pretty good day. We did laundry today and Mommy worked on thank you notes. Daddy came home and they had some seafood since we (or should I say THEY) can’t eat meat today. I can’t eat meat any day….yet. Mommy was telling me about getting ashes and the reason why people get them – she said that next year we’d be able to do that since I can’t get out yet.

Today, I went to the pediatric surgeon so he could take a look at my hernia. It is very common in preemies to have a hernia or two. It looks and feels like I’ve only got one, but he is going to put a tool in there to look at the other side just in case one is hiding over there. He said that the one I have really needs to come out because it could eventually mess up my ovary (or twist and be very painful) if it’s left untreated. So, on Tuesday, I am going in for surgery to have it removed. He said that I’d be in the hospital overnight so they can monitor me very well after the surgery. I’ll let you know how that goes as soon as I can.

Well, I’m hungry…..let me see who comes to me first…..Geeves the butler, or Matilda the maid…… oops, I mean Daddy or Mommy.

Talk to you soon –

Love,

Samantha

JJ

Friday, March 30, 2007

Saturday, March 31, 2007

Sunday, April 1, 2007

Hi everyone! We’ve had a pretty good weekend………

Friday was a very busy day for me! Mommy and I went to Collins-Oliver to visit for a few minutes. Mommy worked for them during the summer for a few years. I got to meet everyone there…..they were very nice to me.

When we left there, we went to St. Louis for the pep rally. I stayed in the office with Dee Dee while Mommy went to watch the cheerleaders do their thing. When it was over, I got to meet all of the "girls" and took a picture with them. One day, I wanna be just like them and cheer for my school! I also got to meet Ms. Ashley and Ms. Melissa. I’ve been hearing all about them and now I finally got to meet them face to face!

Once we left there, Mommy figured we were so close to her school, we ought to stop in since the kids weren’t there. So, I got to meet a lot of her friends there. They were a very smiley bunch……I liked ‘em. We get to see them again on Wednesday for a baby shower for me and for Ms. Morgan. She’s havin’ a little girl like me and she’s gonna be named Grace. I can’t wait to have a play date with her!

On Saturday, Daddy and I hung out at the house while Mommy went shopping. I got to stay in my pj’s all day! J

On Sunday, we did laundry since we had been putting it off all week. It wasn’t too fun.

We also watched the LSU girls basketball game on tv – I’m trying to learn the cheers for when I’m older. I’m already practicing the arms. J

Well, that’s what we did….what did you do?

Love,

Sami

Monday, March 26, 2007

Tuesday, March 27, 2007

Wednesday, March 28, 2007

Thursday, March 29, 2007

Hi guys! We’ve had a pretty active week! Here’s the scoop…..

Monday was my Daddy’s actual birthday, but since we had his party yesterday, we only had cake tonight….no gifts. He was ok with that though since he racked up yesterday! J

On Tuesday, Deacon Tommy came over for our home visit. He’s a really nice guy and I think he liked us. I only know what Mommy and Daddy said because I slept through the entire visit.

On Wednesday, we went for a walk down the street in my stroller and got stuff ready for my trip to Lockport for pictures on Thursday.

On Thursday, Mommy and I went to Lockport for my very first professional photo shoot in Maw Maw Jones’ backyard. That was WAY cool! I had a HUGE basket with pillows stuffed in it…..Mommy and Ms. Billie put blankets over the pillows and put me in it. They seemed to be pretty happy with the pics. They laughed at me because I like to move my arms all around like a cheerleader ,and, in some of my pictures, I am doing that. I can’t help it….it’s in my blood! J I even got to do an outfit change to take more pictures. I can’t wait to see the final proofs. Ms. Billie said they would be on her website for Mommy and Daddy to see at the beginning of next week. Thank you Ms. Billie……I can’t wait until my next session with you!

The weather was beautiful and the backyard was VERY pretty thanks to ReeRee and Aunt Pam working on the flower garden around Maw Maw’s HUGE oak tree. I gotta give them their "props" for making it such a wonderful background for my pictures!

While at Maw Maw’s, I got to meet Aunt Verna face to face. On our way out of Lockport, I stopped to see Ms. Sylvia – Mommy used to spend ALL kinds of time at her house playing with Randy and Wayne (2 of her kids) and swinging on the swing with Angela (one of her daughters). Mommy said she can’t even count the hours that were spent having fun at their house when she was little! It’s too bad Ms. Angela couldn’t be there because she was still at work. I’ll have to meet her next time we go there.

When we left Lockport, we drove back to Baton Rouge through Thibodaux so we could stop at my Maw Maw Bourgeois’ house to see her. She is my other great-grandmother (my Pops’ mom). Aunt Liz lives with her, so, I got to meet her too! We stayed there for a bottle and a short visit then came on home.

Thursday was a VERY busy day for me, but I had a GREAT time!

Have a wonderful weekend – I’ll check back in on Sunday!

Love,

Samantha

J J

Saturday, July 14, 2007 – Tuesday, July 17, 2007

Hi everyone! I am officially 7 months old. Time flies when you’re having fun! On Saturday, Ms. Shelley was in town at the ballfield so Mommy and I went to visit her. I got to meet her two kids, Jordan and Connor, and her husband, Mr. Jared. We didn’t get to stay for very long because it started to rain and Mommy didn’t want me out there in bad weather. That night, Daddy and I hung out at the house while Mommy went to Dee Dee’s camp with "the girls." Daddy and I had fun hanging out even though my teeth were bothering me a little.

On Sunday, I helped Daddy cook some prime rib. It took a LONG time for that thing to cook. When Mommy came home, Daddy told her how good I was.

On Monday, I went with Mommy to the gym to sign up. She wants to work out over there because it’s close to the house and also because Ms. Ashley (one of her good friends) teaches classes there. I went to see the nursery while we were there. That place was wild – I don’t think Mommy will let me stay in there very often (if I get to stay there at all). There were kids EVERYWHERE and it didn’t look all that organized.

On Tuesday, Mommy and I went to watch cheerleader camp at LSU. Some of her cheerleaders from last year were there with their new high school squad and we went to watch. They were really good! They were also very happy that I got to go watch them perform. Who knows……maybe one day I’ll want to be a cheerleader! It sure does look like fun! While we were there, I didn’t want to take my nap because there was too much to see! When I got home, I had a bottle for a snack and fell asleep around 4:00p.m. I must have been really tired because I didn’t wake up until 4:30a.m. You KNOW I’m tired if I don’t get up for dinner! I usually don’t miss a meal! That night, Mommy went to Ms. Ashley’s class. She said it was fun, but it was also very hard and her legs feel like noodles.

On Wednesday, Mommy was moving a little slowly because she had sore legs. We went to the grocery store. In the afternoon, we made dinner for here and dinner for Hunter and Chris to take to their apartment. My teeth were bothering me in the afternoon and I was a big grump. Chris stopped by to pick up dinner and I was waking up from my nap. Luckily, I was in a good mood and got to visit with him for a few minutes.

Well, I’ll go for now – I’ll check back in later this week.

Have a great week!

Love,

Sami

Monday, July 9 – Friday, July 13

Hi everyone! We had a pretty normal week this week. On Monday, Mommy and I cooked for Hunter and Chris. We try to cook for them at their apartment at least once a week. This week, we made white beans and rice for one night and lasagna for another night. Today, Mommy also started on a mission to clean out closets. We also went to Hobby Lobby and to Mommy’s school for a few minutes. All we did at school was put the desks and chairs down. Mommy just wanted to get a feel for how long it would take for her to set up. The good news is, the sub that took Mommy’s place when she left last year did a very good job doing the end of the year packing. So, it doesn’t look like it will take us much longer than normal to set up. Mommy said next week we will take a trip to School Aids to get her classroom stuff to beat the rush in a few weeks. She said I’ll like that store because there are so many colorful things to see.

On Tuesday, "Mission Closet" continued. We went to Wal-Mart to get a few of those shoe holders and some of those 3 tower drawers. I’m scared of the organization going on over here. Mommy also discovered that the annual school supply sale had begun, so we stocked up on crayons, glue, baskets, pencils, folders, etc for her classroom. She said I was a VERY good girl in the store – we were there FOREVER!! You should have seen the stuff piled in that cart! Shoot……..there was hardly room for my carseat, and Mommy ended up carrying one of the stacked drawer thingies. We worked in her closet some today. It wasn’t too bad because she worked in it not long ago.

On Wednesday, Mommy started unloading Daddy’s closet and getting organized in there. She’d never done any "pre-work" in there, so it’s gonna take a while to get it like she wants it. The bad part about it is she can’t really do a lot while I’m sleeping, because his closet is in my room. She can fold t-shirts and stuff like that, but nothing noisy. This will be a work in progress for a few days since it has to be done in spurts.

Daddy went to dinner with a friend of his, so Mommy and I hung out at home.

On Thursday, Mommy and I went on an outing to Wal Mart again – we needed formula for me. We also went to the mall for a very fast trip. She needed 2 things from Williams Sonoma for some Christmas presents that she is making for her friends. I told her that Christmas isn’t for a few months, but she has to get started on this "project" because it takes a few months to finish. I can handle that.

On Friday, we worked in closets and had a pretty low key day. The fun part was that Hunter came over for dinner. Mommy made spaghetti and meatballs for him. I like when he stays for dinner. We get to visit. I was in a pretty bad mood before he got here because I have a tooth coming in that is NOT making me feel all that great. So, I’ve been a grump and I haven’t really been eating all that much – it HURTS!!!! I wish it would hurry up and finish coming in already – sheesh! Anyway, once Hunter got here, I was all happy and cute again. I got to play with my brother! Once I went to bed, they got to eat and visit a little more.

I’ll check back in after the weekend! Maybe Mommy and Daddy can get some pictures up for you to see by then. Have a good one!

Love,

Samantha

Thursday, July 19, 2007 – Saturday, July 21, 2007

Hi everyone! We have had a very busy few days. On Thursday, I had to go to the eye doctor for a checkup. She said that my eyes aren’t crossing more than other kids my age – which is good news! She also said that my vision prescription is a little different in each eye, but it’s nothing for Mommy and Daddy to worry about right now. As of this visit, I don’t need glasses….WOOO HOOOO! I have to go back in January for another checkup. In the afternoon, Mommy brought me to take pictures at Portrait Innovations. It’s my 6 month pictures. It was really fun taking them! I like that place. That night, we went to Fernando’s Mexican Restaurant for Uncle Chris’ birthday dinner. I was pooped after all of that action!

On Friday, Mommy and I hung out at the house…..nothing major. I needed rest after yesterday! That was a lot for me.

On Saturday, we had another full day – I went to the store with Daddy while Mommy was exercising. After that, the three of us went to the mall so Daddy could get a haircut. Mommy and I walked around the mall people watching while Daddy got his "do." After that, we stopped by Daddy’s office to pick some stuff up. Then, we went to Superior Grill to see Ms. Rebekah and Mr. Chene. They are in from their house in Doha, Qatar and were having a get together. They are really nice. They might move back to BR in about a year. When we got in from there, Mommy and Daddy were packing for Daddy’s trip tomorrow. He’ll be in California with Hunter until Friday. Mommy and I will be here most of the week, but we might go to Lafayette if we get bored.

I’ll do another update when they get back from California! Have a wonderful week!

Love,

Sami

 

 

Samantha

Love,

On Sunday, Mommy and I went to visit at Aunt Jaimi’s house for a little while. I got to see Zac, Uncle Steve, Ms. Barbie and Aunt Jaimi. It was fun! Aunt Jaimi let me play with some of Zac’s toys. I like toys…..gotta get some of those next time we go to the store.

On Monday, I went to Ms. Katrina’s and Mommy and Daddy went to work. They came to pick me up early because I was having a hard day with my teething and they wanted to give me some TLC. I came home and slept all afternoon because I wore myself out at Ms. Katrina’s.

On Tuesday, Mommy had a training to attend and Daddy went to work. I had a WONDERFUL day at Ms. Katrina’s. Her daughter, Katelyn, was there and she played with me. That was fun! When Mommy came to pick me up, Ms. Katrina told her how good I was and how I ate and napped like a perfect little angel. It felt good for my babysitter to tell Mommy the good news. I hope I get good reports often!

I’ll check back in with you in a few days. This week, Mommy has to work in her classroom and attend some trainings before school starts next week. So, we’re going to be pretty busy. Talk to you soon!

On Wednesday, Mommy and I took off for GiGi and Pops’ house. We vacationed there until Saturday morning. Daddy got home very late on Friday night and we left bright and early to be there in the morning to see him! I really missed that guy and so did Mommy!

On Saturday, Daddy worked for a little while in the morning. We all hung out in the afternoon and Mommy went to dinner with Aunt Jaimi and Ms. Barbie who was in town from Texas. My teeth were bothering me and I was "a bear" when they were trying to feed me dinner. It wasn’t so peachy for any of us. Mommy and Daddy were very understanding with me and tried to make me feel better, but there was nothing they could do to help. Those dumb teeth hurt! I wish they would just hurry up and do what they have to do to feel better. This stinks!

Hi everyone! I know it’s been a while since I’ve written, but Daddy has been out of town and Mommy doesn’t know how to post onto the website. We’ve had a busy time since Daddy’s been gone. He left bright and early on Sunday morning before we even woke up! Once we got moving in the morning, Mommy and I went to mass. I, of course, fell asleep because it was my morning nap time. In the afternoon, we went to Lowe’s and Target. That night, we packed all of my stuff for my first day with my babysitter, Ms. Katrina. Mommy said it was like my first day of "school."

On Monday, Mommy dropped me off at Ms. Katrina’s and we had to take pictures of my first day. Ms. Katrina laughed when Mommy said it was my first day of school picture. I had a wonderful time there – Ms. Katrina told me I was VERY good and that she can’t wait for me to come to her house tomorrow. I was the only one there with her today. In the evening, Mommy brought me to see Ms. Shelley at LSU. She was there to watch her little cousin at cheer camp. It was really fun, but I was exhausted after my first day at Ms. Katrina’s, so we couldn’t stay very long.

On Tuesday, I went to Ms. Katrina’s again. It was different today because I had a new friend, Gracie. She will be there on Tuesday’s and Friday’s. She’s a few months older than me. I think we’ll have fun playing together on those days! Ms. Katrina’s daughter, Katelyn, was there too! She’s soooo nice – she was one of Mommy’s cheerleaders last year and the year before. We had a great time today! In the evening, I went to the Whitworth’s for a little while so Mommy could go to her exercise class. It was another full day. I’m gonna sleep well tonight!

July 22, 2007 – July 31, 2007

 

 

On Tuesday, Ms. Katrina called and told Mommy that I was cranky and my nose was running AND I was pulling on my ears more than usual (it usually means I’m tired). So, Mommy brought me to the doctor. He said it was all due to teething. I’ll be eating that roast in no time! Heehee Guess what? I weigh 14 pounds 5 ounces and I am 25 inches long. Woo Hoo!

Talk to you soon!

Hi everyone! It’s been pretty busy around here since Mommy is back at work. I forgot to tell you some important news…….I now have the beginnings of my bottom two front teeth! They cut through the skin last week! It was not pleasant. I wasn’t the most enjoyable human that day. However, now I’m good to go.

Mommy did school stuff on Wednesday morning. She said it was pretty boring and wished she could have stayed with me, but she had to work in her classroom to get ready for the students next week. The fun part of Thursday was in the afternoon. We took a quick road trip to Lafayette so Daddy and Mommy could tour Lite (a technology place in Lafayette that my nanny’s office helped to get in Louisiana). They really enjoyed it! I got to stay with GiGi and Pops while they went there. GiGi had a surprise for me – she bought me my very own stroller to use when I go to visit her. That way we can go walking down the street for some fresh air (when it gets cooler). Anyway, I had a very good time with them! We had to drive back so my parents could work in the morning.

On Thursday and Friday, I just hung out with Ms. Katrina, Katelyn, and Lizzie (the dog). I’m getting used to staying there. I really like being with Ms. Katrina during the day.

August 1, 2007 - August 8, 2007