Um, aren't you missing something?

I admit I come from slightly paranoid stock (we like to call ourselves "overly cautious"), but these people need a little paranoia in their lives. Apparently they left their toddler in her stroller in the hot sun while they rode a ride at Disney World. Both claim they thought the other parent had her. WHAT?! I can't move Hallie's punkin seat from the buggy to the car without worrying about the heat inside the car and checking to make sure the other car doors are locked while I walk around to mine. I can't imagine forgetting her in the Florida heat.

Admiration for Mothers Who Shop

I see them everywhere, effortlessly pushing a stroller while a serene baby sleeps through the store. And i've even managed a couple of these scenarios myself, when I felt like we couldn't stay in the house any longer. BUT there is an important caveat: each time, I have had help. Either a family member or Heather was there to hold the diaper bag, start the car to cool it off, or unload the groceries from the cart into the car.

Yesterday, I attempted this feat alone. And let's just say that Hallie was not one of the serene babies noted above. She decided she'd had enough of her car seat right about the time we went to the checkout line. To avoid all-out chaos, I removed her from her seat and held her through the check-out line (which, as you can imagine, made getting the 24 pack of Diet Dr. Peppers out of my buggy quite difficult). Once we conquered the checkout line, with some whimpering by Hallie and a little frenetic maneuvering by me, we went to the car. The scene unfolded as you'd imagine--particularly if you imagine me getting the groceries in the trunk, including the 24 Diet Dr. Peppers and a case of bottled waters (which spilled on the pavement in the parking lot), getting Hallie's seat and her diaper bag into the car, and getting Hallie into her seat in the scorching Alabama sun.

Needless to say, I won't be making many more solo visits to the grocery store or Walmart anytime soon. And kudos to the mothers who manage it...particularly those with more than one child under the age of 4. I don't know how you do it.

Time for a Change

Hallie loves spending time on her changing table.

Cute Fat Face

Smiles for Daddy

Hallie has recently starting grinning directly at us every once in a while, and it absolutely makes our day.

Happy Father's Day!!

A Happy First Father's Day to my wonderful husband! Hallie, Archie, and I are very thankful for you.

Taking the Show on the Road

We traveled to Cookeville for the weekend and had a great visit with Nana, Papa, Aunt Julie, and Uncle Jon. Then, we went through Birmingham to take Grumpy to dinner. Hallie got to meet several of the Heads' friends, and we were able to be with both of her grandfathers and her daddy for Father's day. We are immeasurably blessed.

Visit from Heather and James

Heather spent last week with us, helping with Hallie.

Worn Out

This is where you'll find me whenever Hallie takes a nap...

Belly Button

Hallie's umbilical cord fell off last night, and she has a brand new belly button to show off.

First Tub Bath!

Clean Bill of Health

Hallie had her first doctor visit on Monday, and we're pleased to say that she's doing great. She is a whopping 9 lbs 3 oz, so we must be doing something right. :)

Visit from Mama Pat and Grandaddy

After three days with her, Mama Pat has proclaimed Hallie a "perfect baby." I'm sure she's not biased at all ...

Our Little Ladybug

Little Redhead?

We're still taking bets as far as what color Hallie's eyes and hair will be, but I think there is a hint of red in this picture...

Hallie and "Grumpy"

This may be my favorite picture. :)

Gigi and Uncle Gray

Hallie has spent the last week in my mom's arms. In fact, I'm worried about where she will sleep when Gigi goes home.

Hallie and Kristin

Kristin came to meet Hallie last night, and we really enjoyed her visit.