I knew it would happen sooner or later and I suppose after traveling that particular road for nearly 3 years, today would qualify as later.  We got up close and personal with a deer! 

For those of you who may be worried, I’d like to assure you that we’re all fine.  Calder didn’t even wake up nor did I spill my eggs and Canadian bacon!!  Thankfully, it was a little foggy this morning, so we were driving slower than we typically do.

It wasn’t until an oncoming car was getting closer, that we saw the 3 shadowed figures of the deer.  Putting the brakes on (but trying not to lock them up), G. managed to get us to around 20-25 mph before smacking the smallest of the group.  Yes, there were a few explitives uttered in those tense couple of minutes.  But after examining the damage, which turned out to be minor (at least to our untrained eye), we said a thank-you prayer and continued on our way to school. 

I think the most frustrating part of the experience happened a couple of hours later when I tried contacting our insurance company to check on our deductible and process the claim.  Do you think I could find a number that worked?  Not at all!  Hopefully the day will finish on a brighter note.

What exciting things have happened to you today?

I recall a mass e-mail I sent out at the 6-week mark and here it is already 6 months!  We are slowly adjusting to the “busy”ness of school-year life.  It’s quite tiresome (I’m having difficulty staying awake as I type) but it is wonderful.   I am really learning how to balance time spent at school versus home.

 On this very special, first half-birthday, I’d like to send a message to my precious son.

Calder-man,

You have changed my life in so many ways that I can hardly imagine it without you!  Your adorable personality is really beginning to shine through.  The way your eyes light up at the sight of a favorite toy, and your squeals of delight when I arrive to pick you up…everything about you makes my heart want to jump! 

I love that little crook in your arm, where I will continue to plant many kisses.  Already, we need to raise the siderail of your crib because you’re such a little mover!  When I think back over these past 6 months, I have forgotten the sleepless nights, the fussy moments, and the times when I wasn’t sure I could be the mommy you deserve.

But now, I know that it’s God’s grace that carries me through.  And that loving you, is what I was created to do.  I thank you for showing me how to slow down, how to be present, and how to be so completely vulnerable to every emotion.  You are my miracle.  I thank God for you and I love you with the whole of my heart!  Happy Half-Birthday!

I knew it would be a little trying to get into the swing of the school-year schedule, but I didn’t realize just how long the days would become.  We’ve always led busy lives and I knew that having a baby would turn our lives upside down.  I know it’s only been a couple of days and all in all things are going relatively well.  I just need to build my stamina so I can make it through without wanting to turn in at 4:30!!  I suppose it didn’t help that Calder got overly tired tonight and screamed his little head off for about an hour!  Nothing we could do would soothe him.  It’s amazing how powerless I feel when he gets like that.  Eventually, he did give in and snuggled up when I climbed the stairs for the umpteenth time.

 As he sniff-sniff-sniffled with his little post-crying breaths, he relaxed and finally fell into a steady rhythm.  Even though I know I should get a couple miles in on the treadmill tonight, I think I’m going to turn in for now and try to hit the open road tomorrow. 

We’ve taken him to the doctor, asked both our parents, our daycare provider, and frankly anyone else who will listen when the conversation shifts to the color, texture, odor and frequency of bowel movements, and still we have no answer as to this crazy new poop schedule.  Even though it might sound like we’re totally freaking out, we’re not.  We still have our happy-go-lucky little guy, complete with buckets-o-drool and sparkly eyes!  We’ve just upped the rate at which we plow through diapers!

As I write, my wonderful hubby just finished cleaning up another stinky diaper and is now joining me for breakfast (which he graciously made, granting me a few more minutes of shut-eye).  I am sooo very blessed to have such a wonderful man!  I wouldn’t know what to do if it weren’t for the amazing help, support and encouragement he gives on a daily basis.  Thanks, Babe!!

my “little” brother and his fiance Ann!  It’s been a long couple of weeks waiting to announce this happiness here on my blog, but I didn’t want to spoil the fun of telling everyone.  Though, I’ve been assured that folks now know and I can blab all I want! 🙂

We’re thrilled to have Ann as a part of our family (yeah, I get another sister!) and can’t wait for the big day!  January will be here before we know it! 

Pardon the quality of the image, but it was taken from my phone at Luke’s AF graduation.  They make a great couple, don’t you think?!