Happy Birthday!

Today we celebrated Mike's first birthday as a daddy (2 days early since we won't really see him much on Tuesday due to work, etc.)

I dressed Carter in his new football outfit:


Mike found out later that there was a back to the outfit..hehe:

Picture Update!

Here are some pictures from the past week. Carter is continuing to do well, though his weight gain has slowed a bit. He finally likes his swing, and REALLY likes to watch TV. He enjoyed the Sabres' game Thursday night (see video below).

Unfortunately, Carter has caught a tiny bit of a cold. He sounds very congested and his "voice" is raspy when he cries. We're keeping a close eye on him and hoping he doesn't develop a fever or cough. Look for Carter's 3 month photos later this week!

Welcome to October!

October is upon us, along with the chilly weather and the start of the cold/flu season! In fact, we've already seen many illnesses (croup, colds, strep throat, etc.) amongst the family here and in Rochester. Unfortunately, Carter's application for the RSV Synagis shots was denied. Another ARGH to my insurance company! Most companies will cover babies who are under 6 months at the start of the season (November 1st)...mine will only cover babies up to 3 months. And Carter will be 3 months, 2 weeks! I'm working with the doctor to appeal the insurance company's decision, but I'm not sure how much hope I have!

Carter has started to get into a "habit" of not wanting to sleep unless he is being held. This goes for naps as well as sleeping at night - which means mommy and daddy don't get much sleep. *Knock on wood* he did fall asleep laying in his crib watching his musical crib toy this afternoon...maybe we can try that again tonight!

Here are some pictures from this weekend!

Happy sleeping in Aunt Amy's arms!

"Aunt" Julie did a great job entertaining Carter so mommy could eat!

Carter in his "big boy" outfit. However, we realized that zippers on baby clothes are not very practical.

Doctor Update Re: Hemangiomas

Today was Carter's appointment with the specialist to take a look at his 2 hemangiomas (one on his forehead, the other on the back of his neck). When he was first born it was just a light pink, flat spot on his forehead which has over time become bright red and now dark red and very puffy. I hardly notice it anymore, but I want it gone before he starts school. Yes, I can't believe I'm thinking that far in advance, but I have to for this sort of thing. According to my research only 30% go away on their own by age 5. I don't want Carter getting made fun of at school.

So, our appointment was at 11:25. We finally saw the doctor at about 12:40. UGH. At least Carter was happy, then sleeping the entire time. The doctor said that since it is now dark dark red, it may be done growing and getting ready to go away. So we will go back in 6 weeks. If it hasn't changed (started going away) - he will perform the laser treatment then. I guess it's just a little painful - feels like a rubberband snapping. OUCHIES. But they won't do any numbing because he said the needle to do so would hurt more than the procedure itself. If we notice it getting BIGGER before the 6 weeks is up, we can make an appointment to have it done sooner.

After the doctor we went to Shenanigans for lunch. Then Mike went to work and Carter and I did a little shopping at Babies R Us, Target, and Carter's. I got him a couple new outfits (Mike wanted one for him to wear this weekend), especially since he needs more long sleeved/long pants stuff, and he doesn't have much of that in newborn size. It was good to get out of the house for awhile!

Here are the last of his "September" pictures:

Must have been an exciting football game

What are you doing mom?

SO BIG!

Just chilling on mommy's bed

MOM! That's enough with the pictures! How am I supposed to relax with that flash in my eyes?

Thanks Aunt Allison! I love looking at my turtle!

Carter thinks mommy's bed is more comfy than his own

Finally...they meet!

Our cousin Spencer has been waiting to meet Carter since Carter was born. Unfortunately Angela & Ed (My aunt & uncle, his mom & dad) had been sick since we brought Carter home. Besides a glimpse here and there when we were outside (they live next door), Sunday was the first time Spencer officially "met" Carter...and he was so interested/excited, so I just had to post pictures!

Happy Fall!

Carter made his first trip to the farm today (aka the farm where we have an acre of property to build our house). It was great to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, though we really had to bundle up since it's getting chilly out. It is fall after all!

This is a view from the pumpkin patch out towards the road where our house will be!

Keeping our preemie healthy!

What a Difference 7 Weeks Makes!

Monday, August 3rd vs Monday, September 21st



This is how I found Papa and Carter...so much for keeping him awake for a little while!