unseasonably warm

We had a very warm day (in the 70s) and that is, of course, an odd occurrence for February. After living here for several years we've started to figure out that warm days in winter are not a great thing. Just a few hours after Norah played outside we were watching swirling storm movement on the news. I was up until 2am then Mike took over the storm watch while I slept in Norah's room. Most people that we know didn't get to sleep until after 2:30 when we were given the "all clear" for our area.

It was so difficult to see the news tonight when they were discussing the aftermath of Tuesday's storms. The feature story was about an 11 month old boy that was found 200 feet from his home (the slab was all that was left) by rescue workers. They found him in the dark thinking he was a doll, but he coughed as he awoke and immediately started crying. My heart sank as they reported his mother was found but she did not survive.

I don't have to say it but I will... I am SO grateful that we were not affected, that our family is safe, yet I'm so sad about those that have experienced loss this week. I pray that everyone will take a moment to be thankful for everything in life that is good. Even if we go through hellish times, there is always something that is good.

I hear a little voice saying, "ma-maaa?"
Perfect timing.

personality

I am so thankful to have such a fun child... She is filled with joy, curiosity and affectionate love for people.

I am also thankful for my mom and dad who lovingly take care of her when I cannot be at home! I had to run to the doctor today and they had a little photo shoot while I was gone. She loves doing her hula motions to the song, "Pearly Shells." It's fabulous! You just have to hum the tune and she starts to move her arms gracefully back and forth (you'll have to see her in the hula outfit when I post the video).

She also tells you how old she is (with her tiny index finger). So sweet. Her hair is growing in now and it's nice and wavy. See that little curl that flips out over her left ear? Yeah, that doesn't lay down, ever.

To see more photos go to http://nicelle13.multiply.com/ and scroll down to "Photos."

last minute trip to see family

It was one of those trips that was planned in two days -- and one of those trips that you know God has helped you make the decision to go, so you make the most of every minute so that you don't miss "it." Basically, the reason that He sent you there. It was an exhausting trip, as California trips go, but the baby did so well! She was sweet as can be on the plane rides, slept quite a bit on the car rides (even sitting in traffic which happens on just about every ride), and had a great time with family. It was a shame that we didn't get to see everyone but it is SO difficult when you only have a week to see people in a place that you lived for nearly 30 years.



It was great that Grandpa Matye (our primary motivation for making the trip) was able to see Norah for one day. The hospital would not allow her on his floor for the rest of the week's visits but we were glad he got to see her on Monday!

On our hot days with Grandma Priss the baby was able to experience her first trip to the Pacific Ocean and of course, the swimming pool. She loved the pool but didn't care for the cool beach water of Laguna.