Better than coffee and donuts!

At 5:30 this morning our security system issued an alert that there was a problem with our phone line. It doesn't sound like the intruder alarm, its just a few quiet beeps, but it managed to wake Lily. Normally, I would try to get her back to sleep, but she was so sweet and cuddly this morning, I didnt' want to miss out this special time with her. So we got up for breakfast and I decided to get in some reading time. For nearly two hours she laid in bed next to me while I read to her and talked to her. She watched me and reached her hand up to the book pages. She turned on her side and actually put her little hand on my cheek for a few minutes--it was such a peaceful, beautiful morning!

I wonder if all mothers share my experience of complete enchantment with their first baby? I just never imagined loving someone this way. I think its the closest to understanding God's unconditional love for us, that we can have.

Lily's 4 month check up

Well we visited the pediatrician today, we like to call him Doc Hollywood. As many of you know, Lily is a big girl and this visit confirmed that. She is 26 1/4 inches long and weighs 15 pounds 11 ounces. Those numbers put her in the 100 percentile for height and 90 percentile for weight.

Watching her grow and learn new things about the world everyday has been such a pleasure! I feel incredibly blessed for the opportunity to stay home and enjoy her!

Our Trip Home - Part 2

On the 28th we headed over the pass to Eastern Washington to spend time in Kennewick. Although I am 25, there is still something SO nice about being home and having mom there to take care of everything! Food tastes better, clean laundry smells nicer, the shower water feels hotter...its just good to be home!

After a great lunch, we said goodbye to Ed and Christy and started to settle in for another action packed week. There are always so many people to see, it can be a challenge, but we try our best. This trip we were able to spend more time just relaxing--playing games, watching movies, and truly enjoying the company. I love seeing Lily interact with everyone and once again, she was just wonderful! I guess she enjoys the attention...I wonder where she gets that from?!

On New Years Eve, we attended the Tri-City Americans hockey game and even got to witness a few fights on the ice. Everyone agreed that we really got our money's worth with all the second period action. When it was over we went back home for more games and lots of snacks. I'd like to give a special shout out to our favorite rocker chick BG for the stunning performance!

Our trip was originally scheduled to end on January 2nd. It had been a fabulous trip with lots of hugs & kisses, laughs, and gifts. Although the last time I was really living in the Tri-Cities for longer than breaks or vacation was 2000, it means so much that when we do go back there, we can just pick up where we left off. Everyone has changed since we last visited, but the love and closeness is still the same. This makes every goodbye bittersweet. So, when our flight from Pasco to Seattle was cancelled due to snow, I wasn't too disappointed (More to come on this dramatic situation--Snow joke!).

Thank you to both our families for such a fantastic visit! We loved seeing you all and only wish we could be part of your daily lives as well! We hope to be back to Washington again in the spring and we welcome any visitors who would like to come stay in Kansas City for a while! XOXO

2009

Happy New Years!

There is something about this event that is similar to birthdays for me, in that it reminds me life is too short to be static. My friend Jessica has this quote on her myspace page, "I am not the girl I was yesterday, therefore I will not be the same woman tomorrow." I know the same is true of myself. With each new day and experience I change a little bit more, hopefully for the better.

A few years ago, I would have classified myself as someone suffering from the Peter Pan syndrome--afraid of commitment, afraid of growing up, afraid of too many responsibilities or anything permanent. This last year Eric and I have both matured in unexpected ways and the truth is, its been so exciting and satisfying to grow up!

Like years past, although sometimes I fall short, my mission is to be a blessing to others; to be a better wife, daughter, sister, niece, cousin, daughter in law, friend, and now mother! I hope to keep maturing and learning, progressing toward that woman God has created me to be. To hold tightly to the friends, lessons, and knowledge that propels me, to let go of the people, places, and events that hinder me, and to truly be present "in the moment".

A new year is a new opportunity to succeed, overcome obstacles, and shine brighter. My personal goals for this year include becoming more organized, de-cluttering our home, preparing healthier meals for my family, using the word "like" less, and becoming more punctual. Feel free to hold me accountable--that's why I am sharing my goals with you! :)

May 2009 be your best year yet! May you accomplish more with what you have, achieve your personal and professional goals, and enjoy the peace and joy our savior provides! I have always believed life is like a Choose Your Own Adventure book--let us make the most of this year!

Our time home - Part 1

This year we were able to spend 11 days in Washington and the entire trip was wonderful! We arrived in Seattle on December 24, greeted by lots of snow, which really made it feel like Christmas. Eric's parents had received 40+ inches over a few days in Spokane! We went straight to the Reinstra Christmas party and had lots of fun opening gifts, showing Lily off, and eating great food. After a long day of traveling, Lily did surprisingly well at the party. The best part was getting to see everyone and their kids together--we hadn't seen some of the family since our wedding!

On Christmas day we opened gifts and enjoyed a leisurely morning at the Olsons. For our entire Western Washington trip, Bob and Joann opened their beautiful home to us. They are both such great hosts, we felt very comfortable! We spent the afternoon at the Smith family party in Arlington and getting there was quite the adventure! The streets had not been cleared so the snow had packed down and frozen, leaving the road much like a children's carnival ride. It was bumpy and slick to drive on, people were getting stuck or nearly colliding into parked cars...but it was also a good time bouncing around in the Trooper!

After four busy days, it was time to head back across the mountains to spend New Years in Eastern Washington. We were sad to say goodbye to the Reinstra and Smith families and hope to be back again soon!

Our Christmas Letter

Happy Holidays, family and friends!

We hope you are all well and ready for this Christmas season. For us, each passing year is even better than the year before and 2008 is no exception! With job changes, buying our first house, and of course the arrival of our darling daughter, Evelyn Lily, there was hardly a dull moment!

Eric took on a new role with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad this year as a transportation manager. It has been a great learning opportunity for him and allowed him to expand his network. While he didn’t get to golf as much as he would have liked, he had a busy summer working on the inside and outside of our new home. It’s surprising how much effort goes in to maintaining a house (even if it is new construction) but we both agree that the work is more rewarding as a home-owner than as renters! This fall he spent time bow hunting, and while he didn’t get his buck he still loved being outdoors.

At the end of March I made the decision to leave Cerner Corporation and spend six months enjoying my husband and my pregnancy. Although it was a difficult decision, all the free time Eric and I were able to spend together over the summer really allowed us to bond even more as we made preparations for parenthood! I know there is no greater “job” I will ever have than raising Lily and I am so thankful for each day that I get to nurture and love her. She has changed my life entirely and now I understand my own purpose even more!

Regardless of late nights, diaper disasters, and all the craziness to come, Lily truly is the most precious gift from God! As first time parents, we were filled with worry over the unknown—How would we know what to do when she cried? How much time should a newborn spend sleeping? What if she doesn’t like us?—But she has brought more joy and love into our lives that we could have imagined! She fit so perfectly into our lives it is hard to believe we were ever able to live without her! Like most people tried to reassure us before her birth—God really does give parents the patience, common sense, and intuition to know how to care for a baby! His plan is so beautiful—we are in awe that He would choose us to participate in her life and the purpose He has for her!

We look forward to our trip home this month and hope to spend at least a little time with each of you. May your year be richly blessed and memorable in 2009! Merry Christmas!

All our love,

Eric, Sarita, and Lily

Merry Christmas!

Wishing all our friends and family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

The Nativity Story According To The Gospel Of Luke

1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to his own town to register.
4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,14 "Glory to God in the highest,and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

Adventures in Babysitting...

After Lily's first babysitting experience, we were unsure whether or not we could leave her with someone anytime in the near future. She is generally a light sleeper (like her mama), we do not normally bottle feed her, and I always carry her around the house with me. I love spoiling her with attention and affection, but I know that not all babysitters or friends will be able to do the same when she is in their care.

I am tempted to not leave her until she is a few months older and can communicate better...but at the same time, I know Eric and I need a date night once in a while. Without family around to care for Lily, planning a date with Eric is actually pretty stressful--which negates the whole point of the evening!

Two weeks ago our friend Tara organized a progressive dinner party for the girls so Eric watched Lily for six hours straight all by himself! In preparation we worked on giving Lily a bottle once a day so she would be comfortable with it by Friday. He only called once to find out when I was coming home--It sounds like the night was pretty difficult, but the important thing is that we all learned from it. The time away was relaxing and allowed me to "recharge my batteries" and Eric gained more confidence in his parenting skills. I realized that too often, I jump in and try to "help" by telling him my way of doing things and he doesn't get to try things his way. I know my way isn't always the best way and its certainly not the only way for things to get done, so I am working on letting him figure out how he likes to dress her, change her diapers, and put her to sleep without giving unsolicited instructions.

Her next babysitting experience, last weekend, was with our friends the Webbs. They also have a little princess, Alexa, so they have experience with baby girls. I was a little nervous because a few hours before dropping her off, I left Lily with Eric so I could get a manicure and pedicure. When I called home to check on her, it sounded like she was upset. I didn't want that to be foreshadowing of what was to come, but the Webbs said she did really well and when we picked her up, she was sound asleep!

While it is nice to get away together, we actually really miss her when we're gone! We always love love love coming home to her! Its so amazing to me how much a baby changes things!

Snow Day!

Lily's first time in the snow! It was cold and windy!

Cell phone pictures

I just transferred over all the pictures from my cell phone to our computer and these were a few that made me laugh. I can't believe how much she's changed in only three months! I remember each of these moments so vividly. I'm glad I was able to capture them in pictures because I don't want to forget the emotions I was feeling at the time.

This was right after eating breakfast one day as she was about to take a nap. When Lily was first born she would fall into a coma-like sleep right after eating, regardless of what time of day it was. I'm guessing the smile on her face is the satisfaction of a full belly?

This was right before her bath. Lily loves being in the water and also loves naked time. That morning we took an extra long bath so she could play in the water. Oh yes, the bed also got peed on while I was changing her diaper. I'm a lot faster at changing diapers now!

This was early one morning as we started our day, right before eating breakfast. I remember sending this picture to my family with the caption, "My favorite morning breath!" because she always smelled so sweet! This was before she started babbling so the only communication was these little sighs she would make.

This is a picture of Lily when she was only ten days old, on our way to get her pictures taken. We have so many pictures of her with a hand under her chin, she must have a lot on her mind! She's always looked mature for her age!

Holiday

Our Thanksgiving holiday with the Sarasch family was really fun! Jessica put so much thought into planning the entire day--everything turned out fabulous! She organized games and prizes, crafts, a delicious meal, home-made decorations, and of course she was a wonderful hostess!

Lily did really well with all the new people she met. It was so great to see Jessica's parents with Lily! They are absolute naturals! I think they're ready for a grandbaby of their own!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving to all our friends and family!

We are so thankful for the lessons we've learned this past year about ourselves, about each other, about God's grace, and life in general. We have been blessed in our marriage, blessed with a new home, and greatest of all, blessed with a new baby!

Thank you to our friends and families for such amazing support during this past year! The encouragement when we were nervous, the patience when I was emotional, the love you all showed Lily when she was born...It means so much to us!

Thank you to our moms for coming out and helping us that first month of parenthood! The cooking, cleaning, prayers, advice, all of Lily's care...We were spoiled by your service and love!

Thank you to my wonderful husband for working so hard to allow me the opportunity to stay home with Lily!

Of course around the holidays Eric and I end up asking ourselves why we aren't closer to home. We've been praying about a move for three years now. We love our lives in Kansas City...but it would be nice to raise Lily around the family. Maybe the fact that God hasn't "opened a door" allowing us to move back home is His answer to our prayers??

Hugs and Kisses to everyone!

3 months old today!

(Double click on image to enlarge it)

Today Miss Smith is three months old! Its hard to believe how quickly time has passed. She is now 24 inches long and weighs 13.4 pounds. For the past month she was interested in her hands, but just today she started showing more interest in her feet. Its amazing to watch her become more aware of her body each day!

Life at the Smith residence continues to be absolute bliss! Now that she's getting older she smiles a lot more and interacts with us both. She won't have a problem voicing her opinion when she grows up because she's already pretty good at it!

This week was the first time we left Lily with a friend and it unfortunately it didn't go so well. About two hours into our evening we got a call because she was crying, but wouldn't take her paci or a bottle. We weren't sure if it was gas, trouble taking the bottle, or just adjusting to the new place, but we ended our night out early and brought our baby home.

Of course, we were already missing her so it wasn't too bad!

Our busy weekend

This weekend was Lily's first sleepover. Parker came over to play and just showered Lily with hugs and kisses! He is very sweet and loving toward her. We know that as they get older these two are going to make a great pair!

Lily got out of the baby-cradle-carry stage pretty quickly and has preferred sitting up for a while now. Back in October we discovered that she also loves standing up and she supports her weight very well! It seems like she is growing up too quickly! I thought babies stayed...well, baby-ish for a lot longer!

This weekend we got to visit our friends the Webbs and spend time with Miss Alexa. She's a year older than Lily and is such a big girl! She has so much energy and so much to say, its amazing to see what a difference 12 months makes as children develop! We don't get to see Alexa very often, but each time we do, her little personality shines brighter and brighter!

After all this action, Lily was exhausted!

Bedtime! (7 weeks old)

This is a video of Lily as we got her dressed for bed. It sounds like she was trying to negotiate for us to extend her bedtime. She's very clever like that!

Playing at home

November

Lily got her first lesson in civic responsibility on Tuesday as she accompanied me to the polls. She was so quiet and polite while voting, they even gave her a "Future Voter" sticker. The next day was her two month check up and also the day she got her vaccinations. The shots were probably harder on me than they were on her, but she handled them very well and didn't cry for too long. She slept most of that afternoon, but thankfully didn't suffer from any side effects.

Our first week home after vacation has been a peaceful one. We had to work on Lily's schedule because she was operating on PST for a few days after we returned! Now, she's back on track and we are falling into our routine again. She is currently fascinated with her hands and is always wringing them...as if she was plotting or scheming. It is so cute! And she continues to be as chatty as ever--I'm not an expert, but I believe she is already learning about conversation patterns. She babbles, then pauses as if waiting for a response from us, before continuing on. This little cycle gets repeated throughout our day and it is so fascinating! Not only does she change her tone and volume, but she repeats some of her "words".

Old friends

The first picture is with our old friend (and groomsman), Jared. The second picture is with our new friend Bayley and her dad, Brandon.

Trick or Treat!

Lily (aka Kitty Kokonuts) on Halloween with her cousin Caleb, the turtle.

Our Trip Home

Here are a few pictures from our trip back home (Double click on the image to enlarge it). It was ten days of chaos and bliss!

We were a little nervous about flying with a 2 month old, but she was just wonderful! The hardest part was definitely the increase in luggage.

Our first two days in Spokane were very relaxing. Lily had the opportunity to meet her cousin Caleb and Auntie Carli for the first time. Although Caleb wasn't too impressed with Lily, he was very sweet and gentle with her. He was practicing for when his baby sister comes in January!

Then we were off to the Tri-Cities for four days for Lily to be reunited with Grammy, meet our kind friend Larry, meet the extended family, and be introduced to her Grandpa Delgado and his new family. While in Kennewick, we also celebrated Auntie M's 20th birthday, carved pumpkins, met Auntie M's boyfriend Robert and played with the lovely baby Grayce.

We headed back to Spokane for two more days of family time with the Smiths, a visit to Auntie K's school, an open house with Grandma and Grandpa's closest friends, and the chance to meet Uncle Landen.

From Spokane we headed to Portland, Oregon for our friend Brent's wedding where Lily got to meet a few of our college friends. The bride was beautiful and in seven years, I've never seen the groom happier! Everyone agreed, its a strange thing that we are all married and starting families because it seems like only yesterday that we were freshman! Although Lily was a bit tired at the rehearsal dinner, she was an absolute doll at the wedding.

To answer the question on many people's mind, we ARE considering relocating back to the Northwest. We certainly love our Kansas City life and will be sad to leave our home, our favorite places, and most of all, our dear friends! However, as expected, having a baby has reminded us of how important family is and we are faced with a decision of what type of family structure we want for Lily. We are still in the very early stages of planning and are praying for God's guidance.