Touching Moment

I was reminded the other day of something remarkable that happened about a month ago. Ariana received a coin from her grandpa and I was lifting down her piggy bank for her when she asked for Phoenix's. She wanted to put her coin into Phoenix's bank since he didn't have much money. I told her that was very kind and generous, and that I was very proud of her for thinking of someone else. It warmed my heart to see her valuing someone else's feelings.

Thankful....

I am thankful for my family. I am so lucky to have a terrific husband and two awesome kiddos. I am thankful for such wonderful family members who are always willing to lend a hand and are great people to hang out with. I am thankful for some fantastic friends who are there to laugh with, cry with, vent with, shop with, and so much more. I am thankful for good neighbors. I am thankful for my health and to have a roof over my head. I am thankful so many things, the list goes on and on. At a time when many have little or nothing, I remind myself of what I am thankful for.

Six Months

My younger baby is now 6 months old. Where does the time go? Phoenix is growing so fast, and with the second child, I feel you learn to appreciate all the changes so much more. You are not hurrying the new and exciting things like with a first baby. Even with the appreciation for him in the moment, the moments fly by much too quickly. He is skootching himself around the floor and has gotten into crawl position a few times. Daddy thinks Phoenix may crawl by Christmas. I think he may be right. Looks like we'll have another early walker most likely.

Prematurity Awareness Month

November is Prematuriy Awareness Month. Every day 1 in 8 babies born in the U.S. arrives too soon. Premature birth can happen to any pregnant woman, and no one knows why. It is a serious, common and costly problem. The March of Dimes is leading the campaign to reduce premature birth by supporting research and by educating the public and health care providers. On a side note, the leading cause of known premature births is from preeclampsia.

As a parent of a preemie, I appreciate all the work that the March of Dime's does. You can see Ariana's MOD Band here:
http://www.marchofdimes.com/howtohelp/b.asp?band_id=7479

Running for a Cure to Preeclampsia

There is a woman who I find courageous and inspiring. Her name is Jill and she is running in the New York City Marathon in a few days on Nov 5. She developed HELLP Syndrome during her pregnancy and went through a nightmare. You can read her story here: http://www.bigapplemiraclemarathon.com/index.htm

Jill is doing an amazing thing, both personally and for the Preeclampsia Foundation. I am so proud of what she has accomplished!