What we've been doing around our house...

It's no surprise that since the mom here has been resting and recuperating a lot lately, that the girls have definitely gotten their share of getting to be couch potatoes along with me! I only have a twinge of guilt for the amount of television I have allowed them to watch - it really has been a survival tool. But I know that this just a short phase in our life and they will not be harmed for life for indulging in as many Caillou, Max and Ruby, and Franklin episodes that they want. Actually, we usually have probably too much going on, and this has been a really nice down time for everyone. I think as we take on more activities, I will try to not become as busy as life had become pre-Ruby!

So, here's a funny story in relation to all the tv we have been taking in. At bedtime the other night, I had already read a story to Daphne (there is some old fashioned entertainment still occuring here too), and I was halfway into my bedtime prayer for her, when all of a sudden she jumped out of bed and headed to her door. I stopped my words mid-sentence, and gave her a glare as she looked back at me from her doorway. In my motherly voice I said, "Daphne, what are you doing? She goes, " Mom, I forgot to wash out my toothbrush with water." And I said, "But, Daphne, I was right in the middle of praying for you." Then without a blink of an eye, she replied, "Just pause it mom." I couldn't help but chuckle to myself! Kids these days!

The gift that keeps on giving!

When Daphne was born, our good friends, Tara and Fred bought Daphne the cutest little outfit! We knew they had spent a pretty penny on it, as there were four pieces to the ensemble - all from Nordstroms. At the time, we couldn't get over how sweet it was of our fellow teacher friends to get little Daphne such an extravagant gift. But of course we loved it and couldn't wait to show her off in it! Well, today, when I put Ruby in this famous little outfit, I got to thinking that Tara and Fred probably never imagined how much "utility"(as my father in law puts it) we would get out of their purchase. So as a thank you for their splurge again and even more for their friendship we have enjoyed over the years, I share these photos with you. It's fun to see all the girls in the same clothes - they definitely are sisters! And if you are wondering, there are two pics of Daphne (scanned pictures aren't pretty...) two of Maisie and then two of Ruby.

We are having so much fun getting to know Ruby! Thanks for all your prayers for a smooth transition into life with three little ones. I am feeling more confident every day. God grace is covering us right now!

We're home and resting!

Her going home outfit!

Our coming home reception - Daphne, Maisie and Mom made a banner and had a cake too!
Daphne's first moment with Ruby in the hospital!

A record of her tiny feet!



Life is wonderful! My mom blessed us by keeping the girls here, while we stayed at the hospital. And now they are at Mike and Pam's. I am getting hours and hours of Ruby cuddles, and the rest my body so needs. This is such a gift! Please be praying for our transition to "real life" when the girls come back in a day or two:)

Thank you God for our girls!!!

Ruby Part Two

The Details. God is Divine. This little thing is pure perfection wrapped up in a receiving blanket. I had the best afternoon, picture perfect really. My mom took my kids and I went to visit little Ruby. I made sure that I got a Starbucks that that I could imprint my coffee breath on my new niece so when she smells coffee she thinks of me. After I went a little camera crazy on the baby (nothing like flash photography to welcome you to the world). Then Mikey stepped out to grab some lunch and things from home. We darken the room and Stef got a little nap. I got to sit in a corner, rocking this jewel and read my book. ( I really didn't read much.....more like a sentence here then a long gaze so on and so forth. ) What a lovely creature.

Here's the stats:
Ruby Garland
Born January 3rd, 2008
@ 8:06 am
6 lbs 14 oz
20 1/2 inches long

The world is a better place.

Love, Auntie Becca

A Gem!

Ruby ( ru.by) [roo-bee] 1. a precious red gem 2. a baby girl born to Mike and Stefanie this morning!


Leave a well wish for the new and improved family by posting a comment. I'm on my way to the hospital for to get a little look at this new gem myself. Details and pictures to come. (hint: rumor has it that she has lots of dark curly hair)

Auntie Becca