Constant Beginnings

Claire is now 16 weeks old. I don't have any pictures to post since I have made several posts over the course of the last few days. She is doing really well. The past couple of weeks have been filled with milestones, although somewhat strange. Claire babbled for the first time on October 21st. It was a short string of ba-ba-ba, but has not been heard since. Much to her Daddy's delight, Claire rolled over on Sunday, October 28th. We were at Lisa and Phil's watching something on tv while Claire was laying on the floor on her tummy. The next thing we knew, she was lying on her back. Although no one saw this amazing development, we were certain it took place. I did see her roll over a few days later, so this achievement has been confirmed. Claire also giggled for the first time that same Sunday. It didn't quite sound like a giggle, but more of a cough. Maybe she is confused! She was smiling and smiling at me, making cooing sounds when all of a sudden a cough-like sound with...

We all survived Claire's first airplane ride. That sounds a bit harsh, but it actually went smoothly. On the way to North Dakota, we were seated at the back of the plane with a couple of other families with small children. Claire had a few unsettling moments, but did well. The flight back to Massachusetts was a dream. Our initial flight, which would have consisted of an hour flight to Minneapolis and a three hour flight to Boston, was cancelled. Instead, we ended up flying an hour to Denver and four hours to Boston. Claire slept the entire trip, take-off, landing and all. She was incredible. Several people commented on how she was such a great baby. She really was great. In a couple of short months, she'll be in the sky again. We can't wait!

Our trip to North Dakota was highlighted by a much needed break for Chris and I. My family was awesome. They loved holding Claire, passing her off from person to person. With nearly 50 people, there were more than enough hands to hold her. My Aunt Karen especially enjoyed holding her. She loves kids and Claire loved her. The last picture is a very special one. My Grandma wasn't able to see Claire, but I seized the photo opportunity with my Grandpa. Claire smiling is icing on the cake. My Mom and Dad are wonderful grandparents. They love her so much. We are so blessed to have such a great family.

Claire is lucky to have great Aunties. They doted on her all week long.

One positive outcome from our trip to North Dakota was that Claire was able to spend time with her cousins. They love her so much. Olivia loved to carry her around, Luke loved to feed her and try to make her smile, and Ava loved to push her in the swing. Claire enjoyed them too. Hopefully they will grow up great friends.

Last Sunday was a life changing day. My Grandma unexpectedly passed away. Her passing brought such sadness to our family. She was the glue that held our family together, a strong soul who greatly influenced our lives. Chris, Claire and I traveled to North Dakota on Monday. We spent time with my ever-growing family. All of my Aunts and Uncles were there and nearly all of my cousins. It was a bittersweet reunion, sharing memories, laughter and tears together. We all loved her so much. Tonight as I returned back to my house, reminders of my Grandma are everywhere---her plant (she had a green thumb that I have tried to develop with her and my Mom's guidance), my wedding pictures, & my sewing machine (she sewed us personalized pajamas for many Christmas') to name only a few. Prior to moving to MA, my Grandma lead my family on a tour of her childhood and our family history. It is a tour I will remember always. I took pictures of our newest oil well and of her childhood scho...