Mind Blown

I spent the majority of this weekend in bed with the worst migraine of my life. I've had them in the past, and they're always bad, but this... this was a monster that not even Percocet would take the edge off of. It lasted a full 24 hours, but even once it was "gone" I still had (am still having!) residual pain, aura & exhaustion. Drew was AMAZING though and totally stepped up to the plate as Single Parent. I'll be seeing my doctor shortly for a new migraine medication prescription so I dont have to go through anything quite that intense again, but it also has me thinking about triggers and how I can prevent this in the future. I know a HUGE one is stress- and I wouldn't be surprised, since we've had a lot of that lately. We found out last week that Drew's schedule has been changed and that we will need to start paying for full time daycare soon. All other options have been exhausted. Though I know it wont last forever, we're about to start a very difficult time in our lives. Now we just need to figure out how we manage it and preserve our happiness & health.

In other news, Evvie had her 6 month check up last week! She is 27" long (87th percentile) and 15.8 lbs (39th percentile). Tall & skinny! I asked if I should be worried about her weight and they said that since she's gaining weight at the same rate she always has & she's eating well, she's perfect! Unfortunately, she had to get her full round of shots and she didn't tolerate them well again with a fever that lasted all night. But at least she can take Motrin now! I also got Griffin and Evvie both flu vaccines while we were there. I know nothing is guaranteed, but Griffin's last hospital stay was a direct result of the flu. His doctor at the time said there was no way of knowing for sure, but the vaccine could have potentially prevented it- I've felt guilty ever since. I am not taking ANY chances this year!!

This weekend was the last weekend of the Farmers Market. We managed to make a trip before my migraine got really intense. It was a bit sad- signaling the true end of the summer we had been hanging on to, and a weekend tradition that Griffin LOVES. We'll have to find another way to spend our Saturday mornings!

To Miss Evelyn Matilda on the Occasion of her Half Birthday

the day we met

Dear Evvie-

I can hardly believe that you've been with us for 6 months. In so many ways it seems like it was just yesterday that your bright light entered our lives. But you were such a perfect, instant fit that in many ways it seems like you've just always somehow been here.

You are nothing short of amazing. You have the power to improve my mood with a smile, and you do so often. Your smiles are special though. Epic. Golden. I've never experienced a baby so small with a heart so big. You smile because you're happy and you want to share. It is a wonder to behold.

wearing one Very Special hat

You are amazingly even tempered, gentle and quiet. You always have been. Your very presence is calming and soothing. Your brother is a bit more hot headed, but even he will sometimes simmer down once he sees you- so peaceful, so serene.

Speaking of your brother, he adores you. From the second he saw you, he was absolutely smitten. The second you wake up, he scrambles downstairs with me to make sure he's the first person to kiss you good morning. He hugs you, holds your hand and cuddles you every chance he gets. He shows you off to all of his friends at school, but makes sure NO ONE is allowed to touch you except for your family and teachers. He shares his toys (which you happily stick in your mouth) and he treasures the nights we read stories to both of you at the same time.  You have made his world better in ways that your dad and I never could on our own.

my two favorites

But he makes your life happier too. While your dad and I can occasionally get a giggle out of you, Griffin can make you laugh and laugh. When you hear his voice you turn towards him with a giant grin on your face, waiting to see what he's doing. And no matter how long and uncomfortable his hugs may be, you never cry. You're always perfectly happy to participate.

Just like your brother, you LOVE bath time. Kicking around in the tub is one of your favorite things on earth. It is also when your girly side comes out since you have adored having your hair washed since the day you were born. I wonder sometimes if you two will be swimmers, or just very, very clean.

happy dance

You love sitting up on your own, snuggling with your family, having your diaper changed, and oatmeal. You're not a fan of being alone, having your nails trimmed, and most bottles. You give the best baby hugs I have ever gotten. You are teacher's pet at school and you get shown off to anyone who enters the room. You have the most incredible big blue eyes that even random people on the street will comment on. You are gorgeous and inspiring and loved.

you actually look like a few baby pictures of me in this one! the first time I've noticed a resemblance! (maybe it's the sullen, far away look. Ha!)

I call you Sweet Pea. Daddy calls you Princess. Griffin calls you Little Feets. But you are the lady of our lives, the perfect addition, a truly beautiful soul. We are all so lucky that we get to have you. I hope we make you just as proud.

6 months old.

I love you and Griffin more than anything in this entire world. You are the two best things that ever happened to me. As tired and as stressed as we've been since the two of you came into our lives, we've never been happier or more full. Our hearts nearly burst with love. THAT is what life is about.

love, mama