Jackson's Journey

March Of Dimes 2010

2010-02-21T21:35:00.001-06:00

And the story goes….

Jackson’s Journey

We are the Westerheims– Brandon, Kathryn, and Jackson. Our journey started 5 years ago. A couple of months after Brandon and I were married we decided to start a family. We finally became pregnant in January 2008. At our first ultrasound at 7 weeks we discovered that we were pregnant with not one baby but three! We were excited and scared at the same time. The doctor warned us about the complications that could occur when pregnant with triplets. We were so worried, but our worry soon gave way to excitement at the prospect of this instant big family! My belly started to grow rapidly and by 14 weeks I was already showing like I was half way pregnant. At 16 weeks we were thrilled to discover that we were having two identical girls and a little boy.

Everything was going very smoothly until at 17 weeks my cervix shortened. We had to rush to St Joseph's Hospital in Bryan because I started having contractions. They eventually stopped and the doctors sent me home the next day on strict bed rest. The doctor started me on progesterone shots to help relax my uterus and prevent the contractions. Every week I went to the doctor, and every week my cervix was getting shorter and shorter. Then at 21 weeks, the second part of the saga started...MY WATER BROKE! I quickly woke Brandon up, and we headed to St Joseph's yet again. There they confirmed that my water had indeed broken, but was not dilated. I remained there for the rest of the night and the next morning they decided to transfer me to Temple via ambulance. The ambulance ride was terrifying. At each bump I was afraid that I would go into active labor. We soon arrived at Scott and White safely and I was quickly admitted. I felt a surge of relief- I felt safe because I knew that I was going to have the best care and there would be a doctor there for me when I needed one. The diagnosis was that the water had broken on one of the identical girls. The doctors explained that most women went into labor within 24 hours after their water broke. If they made it past that, than most of the remainder went into labor within the week. It was devastating news but I decided to focus on the fact that there was a small chance that I could not go into labor. They put me on IV antibiotics and oral antibiotics to help prevent infection. I was lucky that the water flow slowed and on the ultrasound after that first week, there was no difference in fluid level around the girls. The doctors believed the tear was up against the wall which helps slow down the leak. They put me on a round of steroids to help the babies’ lungs develop so that if they were born early their lungs would be strong enough to breath. My goal at that point was to make it to 23 weeks. At 23 weeks they would try to save the babies if they were born. When I reached 23 weeks the neonatologist from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) came in and gave me the odds of my babies surviving if they were born then. Babies born at 23 weeks have only a 17% chance of survival. I prayed that my body would hold out and I would make it far enough for the babies to have a greater chance of survival. Sadly, this did not happen.

The evening of the 21^st of June I developed a high temperature very quickly which meant that I had an infection. The contractions started to come on quicker and quicker and before I knew it they were wheeling me into the operating room. The doctors and nurses delivered our three precious angels and when I regained consciousness Brandon told me he walked with the nurses and doctors as they took all three babies down to the NICU. They were so small, he said. But we were thankful that all three of the little ones were alive.

I was so anxious to see my babies when I stepped into the NICU for the first time. I stopped at Evelyn’s bed first. Even with all the tubes and IV’s she was still beautiful to me. She was my smallest weighing in at only 1 pound. She was fighting for her life and losing the battle. I next stopped at Katelyn’s bed. She was just as beautiful and innocent as Evelyn. She was also the largest of the three, weighing in at 1 pound 7 ounces. She was fighting for her life but like her sister she was losing the battle. Over the next couple of days both girls lungs collapsed, Evelyn’s heart gave out, and they both had severe brain bleeds. Their little bodies were shutting down. After five days of struggling for their lives both girls passed away. It was heart wrenching, but our salvation was laying peacefully in that third bed.

Jackson Scott Westerheim! He was so handsome to us! From the very beginning, we knew he was a fighter. He was fighting for his life and seemed determined to hang in there. He was born weighing 1 pound 5 ounces and was 10 ¼ inches long. He was on a high frequency ventilator that made him breathe 900 beats per minute. It gave him tiny puffs of air because anything stronger would destroy his fragile lungs. His skin was so delicate that if it was touched too hard or too long it would tear and would send his body into shock. We were unable to hold him because of his ventilator, the IV’s and tubes and his delicate skin but we could change his diaper, take his temperature, clean out his little mouth, and talk to him. This we did at 3 hour intervals— and our lives revolved around these few minutes that we were able to see our little boy without the plexiglass of the incubator separating us.

The doctors and nurses in the NICU told us that having a premature baby was like being on a roller coaster ride. Some days would be uneventful, and thus good, and some days would be devastating. The first couple of weeks of Jackson’s life we were riding on the high side of the roller coaster. When Jackson was one week old they preformed a brain scan on him to check for brain bleeds. Brain bleeding is common in micro-preemies, and can cause all sorts of developmental problems, from speech and motor issues to severe cerebral palsy. We were thrilled to discover that Jackson did not have a brain bleed at all. This to us was the biggest milestone to pass.

It didn’t take us long to reach the bottom of the roller coaster. We found out that Jackson had a PDA in his heart. This happens when a valve in the heart that is supposed to close after birth does not. Jackson’s did not close and they started him on medicine to help it close. If it didn’t close with medicine they would have to perform heart surgery on him to close it. We were worried but after the round of medicine thankfully it closed. Another milestone we got to check off the list.

Over Jackson’s first couple of weeks they started to feed him through a tube that went directly into his stomach. He started out by getting 1cc every 6 hours. Since he was digesting the milk well they were slowly able to increase the amount they fed him.

For a couple of weeks things were going smoothly. He was eating, breathing, and even earned the name of Super J because he was doing so well. Because they were able to turn his settings down on his high frequency ventilator he was able to change to a regular ventilator. Once they changed him to the regular ventilator we were able to start holding him. Holding our little boy close to us for the first time was amazing. We were able to start doing Kangaroo Care which is when you hold him up against your skin by your heart. While holding him this way our body temperature helped him maintain his body temperature, our heart rate helped maintain his heart rate, and our breathing helped him remember to breathe regularly. He had come a long way in a month but the bottom of the roller coaster ride hit us again. Jackson came down with pneumonia. They started to administer antibiotics to him and they had to clean out the fluid that collected in his lungs. Simple illnesses like this are serious enough for a full term baby—for Jackson, it was life-threatening. Thankfully, our little fighter beat the pneumonia too.

At this point the doctors wanted us to think about giving him steroids to help his lungs so that he could get off the ventilator. Being on a ventilator for a long period of time can cause heath issues but the steroids also had side effects.

After much thought and discussion and research we decided to go ahead and give him the round of steroids. We were hopeful that this would help his lungs enough to get off the ventilator. Along with the steroids they were also giving him caffeine to help with apnea. (Apnea is when they forget to breathe.) After a couple of days he was able to move to a C-Pap machine. The C-Pap looked awful and looked very uncomfortable but he no longer had to have a breathing tube down his throat. A C-Pap provides pressure to help keep his lungs open but he has to breathe on his own. For a couple of days he was doing really well, but his little body soon tired out from all the extra work and he had to be put back onto the regular ventilator. We were disappointed but didn’t want to stress out his little body too much. Jackson sailed along on the ventilator and they were able to lower the amount of oxygen he was getting. Like many things in preemies, the cures often have consequences. Jackson needed additional oxygen, but that extra oxygen is bad for his eyes. So we rejoiced every time they were able to turn the little oxygen knob down a fraction. He continued to eat and grow and at a month and a half he was 2 pounds 8 ounces.

During this time they started to let him control his own body temperature. The incubator that he was in had been controlling his body temperature from birth. He had a probe attached to him and when his body temperature would dip the bed would automatically heat up and vice-versa. Now they were slowly lowering the temperature of his bed, forcing his body to keep itself warm. Every three hours we would take his temperature. If he was too hot we would turn the bed temperature down and vice-versa. Once the bed temperature reached room temperature they could take him out of the incubator and put him in an open crib.

Another week passed and he started doing really well on the ventilator. He did so well they were able to skip the C-Pap and go straight to a high flow nasal canula. This was an amazing time! We actually go to see our little boys face for the first time without all the tubes. We enjoyed getting to hold him more and more.

Not only was he doing well on his breathing but because his eating was doing so well they were able to take the PIC line out of him. The PIC line was used for fluids that went directly into his blood. Because he was now getting enough milk they did not have to supplement his diet with fluids. One by one, the tubes and wires were going away, and each day we spent with our little miracle he amazed us more and more.

We were on the top of the roller coaster ride but down we would come. Jackson developed a staph infection and his little body was too busy fighting the infection to worry about breathing. Back on the ventilator he went. Test after test was run to make sure it wasn’t a very harmful staph infection. Our life revolved around when test results would come back. We were relieved when it was determined that he had a mild staph infection and would recover. After a couple of days on antibiotics he was able to return to the nasal canula.

At two months old he was 3 pounds 2 ounces and he was finally ready to start trying to eat from a bottle. The first couple of times he only got a few drops down but the more he practiced the better he did. During the next couple of weeks Jackson got to move to a regular crib because he was holding his own body temperature, was doing well eating from the bottle, and got to move to a lower flow nasal canula. He body was beginning to support itself. We were enjoying every second we got to spend with him.

He was sailing along but at about two and a half months they did an eye exam on him and discovered that he had Stage 3 Retinopathy of Prematurity with “plus” disease. ROP affects many premature babies and is basically a result of the eyes having to mature outside the womb. Because Jackson’s eyes had to develop outside the womb the blood vessels have not grown correctly. If not corrected the blood vessels could grow inward and detach his retina and cause blindness. The next day Jackson underwent laser surgery to freeze the growth of the blood vessels that were growing incorrectly. The surgery went very well and over the next couple of weeks they continued to monitor his eyes. In the end the ROP did not return and the only issue he might have in his future is he might be a little nearsighted and require glasses.

Over the next month Jackson continued to improve. We were working toward getting him completely off the nasal canula before we went home from the hospital. On day 99 of his NICU stay we got to see his face completely tube free. On day 110 Jackson came home.

We were overjoyed to have our little boy home and doing well. Over the past year we have got to see Jackson smile, laugh, babble, roll over, sit up, clap his hands, eat solid food, crawl, pull up, stand, and enjoy life. Jackson is a miracle, but he is a miracle that wouldn’t be here today without the research that March of Dimes does. The fact is, without March of Dimes, Jackson would not have made it. Because of this wonderful organization, he is thriving.

The March of Dimes is very near and dear to our hearts. We would be honored if you would join us in the March for Babies on May 1st at 9:15 in the morning at Wolf Pen Creek Park in College Station. Let’s march for Jackson, let’s march for the millions of other babies that wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for the March of Dimes, and finally let’s march to raise money so babies that wouldn’t have a chance of survival today will have a chance of survival in the future. Below is a link to our March of Dimes Team Page. There you can sign up to walk or just donate money. If you do decide to walk we will be getting T-Shirts for our team. I will email all of those that plan to walk to get your T-Shirt sizes. Our family would like to thank you in advance for all your support!

http://www.marchforbabies.org/team/jacksonsjourney

Totally Cute Tuesday - First Haircut

2010-02-16T21:41:00.003-06:00

Totally Cute Tuesday – A Week Overdue

2010-02-02T20:17:00.001-06:00

Ok, let’s see, a lot has happened since my last post. Let’s start with Jackson’s 18 month check up. He has now made it on to the growth charts for height and I am happy to report that he is in the 5th percentile. On the other hand, he is not quite there for weight. His doctor does think that in the next couple of months he should catapult on to the chart. So, all is going well on that front.

As I think about my next bit of news I am feeling very relaxed. The sound of the waves, walks on the beach, a nice cold margarita. That was last week for Brandon and I. We were in Mexico worshipping the sun and enjoying the warm weather. Jackson got to visit with his Gramma and Granpa and then his Mimi and Pop. A four had a wonderful time with Jackson while Mommy and Daddy missed him dreadfully.

Towards the end of last week Jackson started to get a runny nose and it has since developed into a double ear infection. My poor little boy has been quite clingy and grumpy the past couple of days. And who could blame him with his little ears hurting. Yesterday he started on an antibiotic and we are hoping that he will be feeling much better over the next couple of days. We have come up with a wonderful way to get him to sit for his breathing treatments that the doctor ordered. We strap him into his high chair and sit it in front of the TV with Barney on. Yes, you heard me right, Barney. The most annoying children’s show in the world now fascinates my little guy. He sits there with his eyes glued to the screen and the mouth piece in his mouth. Oh why, oh why can’t he like watching something more tame like Thomas the Train. Am I doomed to watch Barney for the next couple of years? I guess now is as good of time as any to start rationing his television time.

Totally Cute Tuesday – January Fun

2010-01-19T13:44:00.001-06:00

Jackson has been busy playing, eating, and sleeping this month. He has been enjoying playing with all of his toys he got for Christmas and continues to amaze us with all that he can do.

Totally Cute Tuesday – A New Year

2010-01-05T22:07:00.001-06:00

A new year has arrived. A new year means new resolutions. Let’s take a peek back at the resolutions I made last year….I wonder how many I actually kept….hmmmm….

1. Get Fit and loose the last little bit of pregnancy weight! I say that I am going to do this every year but as my 10 year high school reunion looms around the corner (I know, how did I get that old) I am dying to look good. Well…I started off with good intentions…Does that count? Let me just go ahead and hit copy and paste and make it my first new years resolution again this year. Maybe, just maybe, it won’t be my top resolution next year. Maybe, it won’t even make my list. I will think positive thoughts!
2. Get Organized! It is time to finally move into my house and unpack all of my boxes. I should have everything unpacked just in time for us to move again in a couple of months. Yes, I know we are crazy and we do move a lot. At least we only make in town moves and not long distance moves. Yipee! I can mark this one off my list! Go me!
3. Tell Jackson that I love him everyday! He is such a little angel, even when he is screaming bloody murder, that this is a must. Of course I kept this one. Who in their right mind couldn’t love my little cuddle bug!
4. Do nice things for my hubby daily! Brandon is such a great husband I need to make sure he knows that. Well, I didn’t do things daily but my hubby does know that he is wonderful!
5. Smile everyday! I know this sounds silly but smiling seems to make everything better even when you are blue. I tried to stay positive all the time…but there are days that I could work on this.
There they are. All 5 of my life changing New Years resolutions. Not all of them are hard but they are all attainable and that is what I like. Well, four out of five is not bad!

Now on to this years resolutions:

1. Get fit and loose that last bit of pregnancy weight! (Can you still call it pregnancy weight even though it has been 18 months since I was pregnant?)

2. Get the pictures for this year in albums. Last year I did really well but I have slipped this year. Must do this one! I have to savor lasting memories!

3. Tell my hubby that I love him and appreciate him everyday.

4. Do a special Mommy/Son activity atleast once a week.

5. Smile everyday! I am going to continue my silly sappy resolution from last year because I believe it is valuable!

My goal this year is to achieve each and everyone of my resolutions. Now, here is the cute pictures of Jackson that I know you are all waiting for.

Totally Cute Tuesday – Christmas 2009

2009-12-29T22:08:00.001-06:00

We had a wonderful Christmas. The weekend before Christmas we headed down to Georgetown to have Christmas with my family. Then, after a couple of days of frantic last minute shopping we headed to East Texas on Wednesday. On Christmas Eve we went over to Gramma and Granpa’s house to have Christmas. Then we had two Christmas Days. The first was spent with just us and Nana and Grandad. Then Uncle Danny and Aunt Katie came in and we had our special Christmas Day. The next morning we got up early to head to Mammaw’s house to have Christmas with my extended family. Come 10 o’clock that night we were pooped and laying in our own bed reading. What a whirlwind of a Christmas. What a wonderful Christmas. I love my family!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and we wish you a very happy new year!

18 Months Old

2009-12-21T20:33:00.002-06:00

My baby is growing up. Today Jackson turned 18 months old. 18 months ago he was fighting for his life to survive. Today he was fighting for his toys with his friend. 18 months ago Jackson was hooked to IVs, on a breathing machine, his eyes were still fused shut, his skin was so delicate it would tear if touched, he was shorter than a ruler, and he weighed less than a bag of flour. Today he is crawling around, standing up, walking along anything he can use to prop himself up with, says tree, kitty cat, mamma, and dadda, rides his radio flyer rocket, plays with his friends, walks with the help of a hand, eats with a fork and spoon, drinks out of a cup, hugs his pooh bear, smiles, laughs, and is a bundle of energy. It is amazing to think how far he has come.

Totally Cute Tuesday – Santa…it’s a love/hate relationship.

2009-12-15T22:45:00.001-06:00

On Saturday Nana, Grandad, and I loaded Jackson up in the car to go see Santa Claus. This was to be Jackson’s first time to see Santa because last year he was not allowed out in public. When we arrived we waited a little bit for Brandon’s meeting to end so that he could meet us up there. At about 1:05 Brandon arrives. As we walk up to the booth we see Santa leaving for lunch to help maintain that portly figure of his. While we wait for Santa to finish lunch we decided to go shopping for a while. Jackson does pretty well shopping and even gets to ride up and down the escalator. On our way back over to Santa he starts to get a little fussy. It was by this time nearing naptime and when Jackson gets tired he lets you know. Dead set on completing the mission of seeing Santa we get in line. As we get closer and closer to Santa Jackson gets fussier and fussier. We are almost out of snacks in the snack cup when we reach the front of the line. As I set Jackson on Santa’s lap he wiggles, reaches for me, and starts yelling. By listening to him you would have never thought he started out his life with lung problems. We snap a few quick pictures to document the momentous occasion and then we quickly get the heck out of dodge. Thirty minutes later Jackson is home snoozing dreaming of Santa. I just hope he was hugging Santa instead of running from him.

Save me Mommy! Save me!

Get me out of here!

Seriously people, who the heck is this guy!

Totally Cute Tuesday – Preparing for Christmas: Then and Now

2009-12-08T22:00:00.001-06:00

Christmas tree hunting 2008…..

Christmas tree hunting 2009…

Christmas tree decorating 2008…

Christmas tree decorating 2009…

Totally Cute Tuesday – On the Hunt

2009-12-01T22:29:00.001-06:00

Must find the perfect Christmas tree….

Okay…Found the tree. Now I must take it to the car…

On second thought I think I will just let Pop take care of it while Mimi and Daddy walk with me to the car.

Pop and the Tractor

2009-11-30T21:28:00.002-06:00

Before we left Mimi and Pop’s house this weekend Pop took Jackson for a ride on his tractor. Jackson was already to go in his overalls that looked just like Pops.

Yippee! I am on the tractor!

Whoa, we are moving now.

Hey Mom! Hey Dad! Look at me! I’m riding the tractor with my Pop!

Aaahhh, this is nice and relaxing.

Look, I am steering!

Thanks Pop! This is so much fun!

Thanksgiving

2009-11-29T22:07:00.001-06:00

On Wednesday afternoon we loaded up the car and Jackson and headed to Georgetown to spend Thanksgiving with my family in Georgetown. There was no shortage of food eaten and by the end of the day we lounged around on the couch to full to move. We took pictures galore and over the next couple of days I will be sharing our adventures and outings over the past couple of days. Today I start off with some cute teaser photos to get you coming back to see what kind of trouble Jackson got into.

Totally Cute Tuesday - Growing Up

2009-11-24T14:31:00.005-06:00

Whenever Brandon or I are talking on the phone, Jackson just has to get his hands on it.

I thought it went this way but maybe not....hmmm...

Oh yeah...this is the right way...now let me dial...who do I want to call...

Nana & Grandad, Mimi & Pop, or Gramma & Granpa....tough decision...

Hello....hello...anyone home! It's your favorite Granchild!

On another note...I couldn't resist posting these pictures as well because they are just so darn cute!

Totally Cute Tuesday - An Active Boy

2009-11-17T21:56:00.006-06:00

Jackson is a very active little boy. Staying still does not happen for this child unless he is strapped in to his car seat, strapped in to his high chair, or sleeping. One of his favorite activities is displayed below.

Down the stairs....

Up the stairs...

And down the stairs again!

Going up and down the stairs can keep him occupied for long periods of time. If he is is fussy a sure bet way to make him happy is put him by stairs. He also shows quite an interest in figuring out different ways to play with the toys then intended.

Shake! Shake! Shake!

Shake my toy!

Totally Cute Tuesday - Pooh Bear and Tigger

2009-11-03T20:42:00.006-06:00

One year ago....Jackson visited his very first pumpkin patch and got to wear his very first halloween costume. At just under 6 pounds we had to prop him up in the pumpkin patch to actually get a picture.

Thought running through Jackson's head: GET ME OUT OF HERE!

Now...Jackson visited his second pumpkin patch this year and got to wear his second halloween costume. At 19 pounds he needed no propping up for this round.

Thought running through Jackson's head: GET ME OUT OF HERE!

Thought running through Jackson's head: Thanks Mommy! I love you!

Totally Cute Tuesday - A Day in the Gardens

2009-10-27T21:37:00.008-05:00

This weekend we went to the Dallas Arboretum and took pictures in the pumpkins. It was such a beautiful day and we enjoyed being outside. Below are some of the best photos that we took. As I sort through more photos I will post them as well.

The Children's Miracle Network

2009-10-21T11:27:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I was able to share Jackson's story with the Children's Miracle Network. Without the Children's Miracle Network and the donations made to the Children's Miracle Network Jackson wouldn't be here today. The first couple of months of Jackson's life depended upon equipment donated by the Children's Miracle Network to the NICU at Scott and White. And, with anything medical the equipment doesn't come cheap. For example, Jackson's incubator that he was in was called the Cadillac of Incubators because it costs about as much as a brand new Cadillac. We all know that Jackson is a miracle, but he is a miracle that is here today because of all the support he received the first few months of his life. Thank you Children's Miracle Network and everyone who donates for helping my little miracle!

Jackson & Pooh Bear

2009-10-07T10:21:00.013-05:00

This is Pooh Bear.

Pooh Bear is 10 inches long.

This is Jackson.

Jackson is 28 inches long.

Jackson is 15 1/2 months old

This is Jackson when he was 2 days old.

He was 10 1/4 inches long.

He was just a tad longer than Pooh Bear.

This is Jackson and Pooh.

Jackson loves his Pooh Bear.

They are friends.

It's always nice to have a friend.

Totally Cute Tuesday - Daddy's Handsome Boy

2009-10-06T19:06:00.003-05:00

Totally Cute Tuesday - To Mimi and Pop's House We Go

2009-09-29T20:32:00.004-05:00

This weekend we packed up the car and headed to Mimi and Pop's house in Georgetown. Jackson had fun playing with his cousins and Mommy had fun shopping for new winter clothes at the outlet mall. All in all it was a good weekend!

Totally Cute Friday - My Baby's Growing Up

2009-09-25T09:29:00.004-05:00

First off, I would like to apologize for not making a totally cute Tuesday post. I know all you avid blog readers were checking! Things have been crazy this week getting back into the swing of things from being gone all last week. Uncle Danny and Aunt Katie's wedding was a beautiful affair and as soon as pictures start coming in I will be sure and post some of Jackson in his cute little tuxedo!

Jackson had a momentous occasion happen in his life this week. Tuesday was his first day of School. Jackson is going to Mother's Day Out 4 days a week. It is a big step but Brandon and I felt like it would really help him to see and be around other kids his actual age. Plus, Brandon seems to need me more and more in the office and this gives me a set schedule to be there. The past couple of days Jackson has been doing great in class. The only thing he really does not like is nap time. Other than that he is happy and seems to really enjoy playing with all the toys and going on buggy rides down the halls and outside. Here are a couple of pictures we took on Tuesday to document his first day.

Totally Cute Tuesday - To Grampa's House We Go

2009-09-15T19:50:00.003-05:00

This weekend we headed up to Dallas to visit Granpa Westerheim. Jackson had fun playing and watching his Baby Einstein in a little rocker. Granpa was also really nice and shared a cracker with him.

On Friday before we left Jackson had to get his 15 month booster shots. The poor thing always gets poked every time he visits the doctor. Before the shots they weighed and measured him. He now weighs 18 pounds 3 ounces and is 27 1/4 inches long. My little boy is getting so big. Even though he is not 20 pounds yet the doctor said we could turn his car seat around because he had good enough neck support.

We are now at Nana and Grandad's house helping them get ready for Uncle Danny and Aunt Katie's wedding on Saturday. We are missing Daddy and can't wait until he gets here on Friday!

Daddy's belt works well for keeping Jackson in the rocker. You have to improvise when you can.

Jackson facing forward in the car like a big boy!

Totally Cute Tuesday - Aggie Spirit

2009-09-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

This weekend Jackson was already to cheer the Aggies on in their first game of the season. This is Jackson's second season opener. He was all decked out with his 12th Man Jersey ready to cheer the Aggies on. A little over a year ago Jackson cheered them on as well. Class of 2030!

Totally Cute Tuesday - He's Going to Hate me Someday

2009-08-25T13:37:00.003-05:00

I know what you are thinking. And I can just picture it years down the road. He is going to hate me someday when he finds out that this picture, along with a couple of others from the same time, exists. But hey, I'm a mom and I just couldn't resist his cute little tushy! So here he is, in full glory, his birthday suit. Now, that is what I call cute!

Totally Cute Tuesday - A Weight Thing

2009-08-18T19:17:00.003-05:00

From 3 pounds one year ago.....

To over 17 pounds today...

Amazing what a little weight can do!

Totally Cute Tuesday - The Faucet

2009-08-11T20:23:00.001-05:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Jackson's First Bubble Bath

2009-08-07T19:17:00.002-05:00

Playing and Visiting

2009-08-06T21:13:00.006-05:00

The past couple of days have been very busy. On Wednesday Jackson and I went to the Houston with some of our friends. Jackson had so much fun! We had lunch at the Downtown Aquarium and Jackson along with his pal enjoyed looking at the big fish in the huge tank. After lunch we headed over to the children's museum and played. Jackson is getting so good at crawling around. He is my little speedster.

Today we headed to Temple for a NICU follow-up appointment. Jackson now weighs 17 pounds 2 ounces and is 27 3/4 inches long. He is still on the small side but when you take into account where he started from he is almost 16 times larger than he was a birth. Now that is what I call progress! He got to show off all of his skills and visit with the nurses and other friends that we made a little over a year ago. We stopped by the Ronald McDonald House to visit Susan and Rebecca. Walking in the house just makes me feel at home. It is an amazing place and a wonderful charity. After the Ronald McDonald house we headed up to the NICU to see all of our friends we made there. The staff at the NICU was wonderful and Jackson wouldn't be here today without their hard work and care. At his appointment they were very pleased with how he looked and all the things that he can do. He really showed off! All in all it has been a great couple of days but I am am looking forward to a weekend at home relaxing.

Totally Cute Tuesday - A View of the Past

2009-08-04T21:38:00.003-05:00

It is imperative at times to look into the past to see how far you have come. A year ago today I was filled with hope of a bright future. I was introduced to an 8 year old who was born at 23 weeks. To see a happy, healthy, vibrant boy in front of my eyes was amazing. It gave me hope. A year ago today Jackson was laying in an incubator attached to breathing machines and IVs.

With his head smaller than his Daddy's hand.

And his hand just barely large enough to grasp his Daddy's finger.

Now.....He is pondering his future. A future that is bright. A future as a big, healthy boy.

Amazing!

Totally Cute Tuesday - Crawling, Crawling, Everywhere

2009-07-28T20:01:00.004-05:00

This past week Jackson has really taken off. He was crawling before, but he is really crawling now. He crawls all over the house. I have had to put a gate up on the stairs because he will climb all the way up them lickity split if you are not watching him. He has now learned to sit down from a standing position which is a momentous feat. Before he would just stand there with no way of getting down besides falling. Another new thing he is doing is pursing his lips all the time. It makes him look so serious!

Long Awaited Cake Pictures

2009-07-24T17:26:00.002-05:00

I know, I know, I apologize for holding out the best pictures from his birthday party. Mandi got these pictures to Nana weeks ago and Nana just brought them down today. Aunt Tammy made the cutest cakes for Jackson's birthday party. Jackson had his own personal cake and he really enjoyed it.

Totally Cute Tuesday - A Lot Can Happen In a Year

2009-07-21T21:01:00.005-05:00

It is safe to say that life can throw you some curve balls along the way. Any couple dreaming of having a baby just assumes that they are going to get to take their newborn baby home right after he/she is born. In Jackson's case it was 110 days after he was born that he got to come home. Any new mom dreams of holding her baby the day it is born. I got to hold Jackson for the first time when he was one month old. He was hooked up to a breathing machine and numerous IVs. Weighing only 2 pounds he fit right inside my shirt. While I was holding him he was getting 8mls of milk through a tube that went into his stomach. Tonight, I held my little boy as I was putting him to bed. Weighing 16 pounds 6 ounces he covers my whole body when holding him. While I was holding him he was gobbling down a 5 oz bottle. He was breathing without the assistance of a breathing machine. He did not have any IVs in him. He was just an average 13 month old baby. He is crawling all over the place, standing up and holding onto whatever he can, and he even made it all the way up the stairs today. If he wasn't a tad on the small side you would never guess that one year ago today he was so tiny. So, you could say that life has thrown us a curve ball this past year. However, it was a curve ball that was well worth it. Jackson makes me smile every single day and continues to amaze us with all he can do.

July 21, 2008

Jackson standing up in his favorite toy. Thanks Mimi!

Five Years Together

2009-07-17T10:35:00.004-05:00

That's right folks....it has been 5 years today since Brandon and I were married. I can't believe how time flies! This time five years ago I was getting ready for my wedding. It was such a magical day and I love looking back at all the pictures.

The happy couple!

I love you Brandon!

Totally Cute Tuesday - Cowboy Up

2009-07-14T13:28:00.004-05:00

On Saturday we headed to Georgetown to visit my parents and Jackson got to have his very first horse ride with Pop. Jackson was such a big boy riding with Pop.

Riding off into the sunset.

Totally Cute Tuesday - Handsome

2009-07-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

Go, Go, Speed Racer

2009-07-02T07:44:00.002-05:00

Totally Cute Tuesday - Movin' All Around

2009-06-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

I turn my head for one second...

Hey Mom, look what I can do!

A Visit to the Museums

2009-06-28T20:31:00.007-05:00

This weekend Brandon, Jackson, me, Gramma, and Granpa packed up our cars and headed for Houston to visit some of the wonderful museums. Jackson had a blast and was a wonderful boy. On Saturday we headed over to the Children's Museum of Houston and Jackson got to play in the Tot Center. I was so proud of him crawling up the steps and pulling himself up to play with the toys. He had a blast!

Today we headed to the Rienzi House which houses European decorative arts. Children are not typically allowed on the guided tours but they allowed us to go through with a warning that if he started to get fussy that we had to leave. Brandon and I traded off holding him (Brandon did most of the holding) and he was a perfect angel. He even got a gold medal at the end of the tour for being so good!

Jackson pulled himself up on the ball pit to start playing with the toys on the wall.

Jackson loved it when Gramma was pulling him on the wooden sled!

Go, go, speed racer!

Turn that corner!

Yes officer, I am old enough to drive. I am just small for my age.

Playing in the ball pit.

Having a blast!

One Year of Jackson

2009-06-21T17:22:00.006-05:00

As I sit here watching my big boy chewing on his hammer in his new exersaucer (thanks Gramma and Granpa!) watching Nemo I can't help but think about how far he has come in one year. One year ago he was a tiny little fellow in the hospital hooked up to IVs, a breathing machine, and struggling to stay alive. Now he is a 15 pound happy little boy who is crawling around and doesn't like to be stuck in one place for very long. Yesterday he had his very first birthday party with family and friends. I have posted a few of the thousands of pictures that were taken. I will be posting more in the next couple of days. Enjoy!

P.S. Happy Father's Day to all the wonderful fathers out there!
P.P.S. Happy Birthday Benjamin!

Totally Cute Tuesday - T-R-O-U-B-L-E

2009-06-16T12:24:00.004-05:00

Jackson continues to amaze us each and every day. Looking at him now you would never guess that he was born at only 1 pound 5 ounces. On Sunday he will be 1 year old!

Totally Cute Tuesday - Go! Jackson! Go!

2009-06-09T17:26:00.003-05:00

And he's off....

Totally Cute Tuesday - There's a New Sheriff in Town

2009-06-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

There's a new sheriff in town boys and he is not taking any smack. He keeps me on my toes and makes sure I don't rest on my job. He can be demanding but he can also be very, very cute! No longer can I just set him down on his blanket and expect him to stay in the same place. He is learning to scoot around to get his toys and torment Sam. Let the baby proofing begin!

Totally Cute Tuesday - At the Lake

2009-05-26T09:16:00.003-05:00

This weekend we headed to the lake for memorial day weekend. We had so much fun showing Jackson off to everyone. A couple of firsts for Jackson this weekend were:

1. He got to go on his very first boat ride and wear his very first, very uncomfortable life jacket.

2. He got to wear sunglasses.

3. He got to sit up while taking a bath in Nana and Grandad's sink.

4. He got to be held by the flower girl from Mommy and Daddy's wedding

5. He got to touch a live fish

6. Even though this picture does not display a first from this weekend I had to add it on because it is just so darn cute!

11 Months Old

2009-05-21T13:22:00.000-05:00

Sleeping Bliss

2009-05-20T11:14:00.003-05:00

Can you believe it...it is now 11:15 and Jackson has been asleep since 9:50! He usually only sleeps for 30 to 45 minutes and then he wakes up with a holler. He is going to be so nice and rested after this nap. I actually have a second to sit and relax. As soon as he goes down the race starts for me. I rush around trying to get everything I need to do done. This is pure bliss! However, let me take a second to share last night with you....

So Brandon calls at about 6:15 when his meeting is over and suggests that we go to Atomi, a steak and sushi restaurant in town. I was so super excited to get out and do something but I had a nagging feeling that keeping an 11 month old up and out past his bedtime wasn't going to be a good idea. This was the very first time Brandon and I attempted to go out to eat by ourselves with Jackson. I decided to push my doubts about things into the back of my mind and just try and be positive. When we get there we really want to sit in the Hibachi area so we can watch them cook our food. We thought it would entertain Jackson as well. So here we are sitting around the grill at a community style table. To our left were a young couple on a date and across from us stat two business men. After about 10 minutes Jackson gets restless and starts to fuss. There is no sign of the cook that is supposed to wow us and Jackson with all the flames and pan banging. To be nice to the people around us we decided to forgo the Hibachi experience and move our mountain of baby gear outside along with us. This was a better place for us. Jackson's screams and fussiness were overpowered by the noise of the fountain and we didn't have people across from us that we didn't know. Jackson continued to fuss and require enormous amounts of attention throughout the rest of the meal but at least we didn't feel guilty for ruining someone else's dinner. The next time we go out to dinner just the three of us we are going to have to require that the place has outdoor seating and is very noisy. On the way home Jackson conked out in his car seat and he was so cute we just almost forgot about the restaurant experience.

Totally Cute Tuesday - Bumbo Then and Now

2009-05-19T15:28:00.004-05:00

It is amazing to look back at him sitting in his bumbo back on his actual due date of October 15th. He really has grown so much since coming home! He will be 11 months old on Thursday and he is 7 months adjusted.

October 15, 2008

May 19, 2009

Target Practice

2009-05-17T16:15:00.010-05:00

You heard it right folks....a virus has been playing target practice with Jackson. Up until now the nasty viruses that run rampant around these parts have missed their target. On Thursday morning we discovered that one nasty stomach virus had hit the target. Poor little Jackson was running a fever and filling up his diapers every hour or so. The poor baby was like this most of Thursday, Friday, and Saturday:

(Isn't this a cute picture? It was taken on October 1st when he was just a wee little fellow.)

Thank goodness by late Saturday afternoon he was:

On the road to recovery! And I am happy to report that today he is almost 100% better!

Baby vs. Tail

2009-05-13T18:29:00.003-05:00

And the winner is....

Baby! Sam is such a good sport!

Totally Cute Tuesday - Visiting and Swiming

2009-05-12T13:39:00.002-05:00

This weekend we went to the lake house and did lots of visiting. All of Nana and Grandad's lake friends finally got to meet Jackson in person. Lets just say that Jackson was a hit! He showed off all of his bag of tricks. Then last night we went swimming in the pool. He had lots of fun with Daddy in the water!

Totally Cute Tuesday - March, March, March

2009-05-05T16:50:00.004-05:00

Here are a couple of pictures from Saturday. I stupidly forgot my camera but his girlfriends mom brought one and snapped a couple of pictures for me. This is Jackson's first reunion with his girlfriend. Jackson is the older one but you would never guess that!

Thank You!

2009-05-03T21:39:00.005-05:00

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the donations we received in honor of Jackson for the March of Dimes. All together we raised $1385! The walk was wonderful and Jackson was even reunited with his girlfriend, Berkley, from the NICU! Because of the research that the March of Dimes does I am blessed with this:

I think that pretty much speaks for itself.

Totally Cute Tuesday - Did someone say water!

2009-04-28T19:36:00.005-05:00

First off, I want to apologize for not posting last Tuesday. I am sure that you will feel real sorry for me when you hear the reason.
Are you ready...
Are you sure...
I know you are on the edge of your seat...
I know you are going to be wishing this had happened to you...
I was in MEXICO!
That's right! Our first vacation since our little bundle of joy arrived 10 months ago. And, you guessed it, the little bundle of joy stayed home with Mimi and Pop first and then Nana and Grandad came for the second shift. It was hard leaving him but thanks to the brilliance of technology I was able to talk to and see him on Skype twice a day. Mexico was nice, relaxing, and oh, so sunny! We spent our days laying on the beach, swimming in the pool, eating, and drinking margaritas and other various frozen beverages. So first I want to make you all jealous and show off some of our fabulous pictures from Mexico and then we will get to the totally cute Tuesday pictures.

When we got back from Mexico we had the itch to try out our pool. While we were not brave enough to just dive totally in we did some sitting on the tanning ledge. The pool itself is just a wee bit nippy but the tanning ledge water is much warmer because it is not so deep. Jackson got to try on his new swimsuit for the first time and we did a trial run to see how he would react to the pool. He loves taking baths and after all the pool is just a huge bathtub! Right? He put his feet in and even splashed around with his hands a bit. He was a real trooper! Maybe in a couple of weeks the water will be warmer and we can try out his new baby float as well!

Ready for dinner on our last night in Mexico!

Gramma and Granpa right outside their room

The view from my lounge chair. Not too shabby, not too shabby!

Brandon reading while Jackson hangs all over him trying to break Daddy's attention from the book. By the way his new favorite sound to make is Da, da, da, da, da, da. Why oh why could it not be Ma, ma, ma, ma, ma, ma, ma?

Step right up folks...baby in a pool!

I think I like this! It is a wee bit nippy but water doesn't faze me. Next step, completely under! I have to be brave and live up to my super hero name!

Totally Cute Tuesday - Daddy's Catch

2009-04-14T08:28:00.001-05:00

Look what Daddy caught!

Easter Weekend

2009-04-13T21:27:00.007-05:00

This weekend we went to Georgetown to visit Mimi and Pop. We had so much fun and Jackson finally got to meet his cousins Matt and Avery now that he is allowed out in public. He also got to meet Allison, Matt, and Claire. Allison and I have been friends since we were zero. We used to take our dolls with their diaper bags, strollers, and bottles all dressed up to church. Now we are dressing up our own children. It was great to see everyone and the Easter bunny even left an Easter basket for Jackson. He was super excited!

Pop, Matt, and Jackson

Avery meeting Jackson

Allison and Jackson

Claire meeting Jackson

Jackson finding what the Easter bunny left for him!

Jackson playing on his quilt

Totally Cute Tuesday - Discovering the Watch

2009-04-07T20:27:00.006-05:00

You can just see the wheels turning in his brain!

Hey guys! What's up?

Oh, shiny!

Let me get a closer look at this!

I think I must touch it!

Maybe I should see what it tastes like!

Oh, wow! This is pretty good!

Thanks for sharing with me Dad!

March of Dimes Update

2009-04-06T19:35:00.005-05:00

When: Saturday May 2nd
Where: Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater
Registration Time: Starts at 8:00 a.m.
Walk Time: Starts at 9:00 a.m.

We would love for anyone to come out and walk with us! If you would like to donate you can click on the link below. I am going to be making T-Shirts for Jackson's team to wear. Please email me your T-Shirt size and I will add you to the list of walkers.

http://www.marchforbabies.org/ teams/660438

What Jackson Can Do!

2009-04-06T17:52:00.002-05:00

Jackson has been amazing us each and everyday. Here are a couple of the things that Jackson can do!

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Bluebonnets

2009-04-02T20:46:00.003-05:00

We went and took pictures in the bluebonnets on Wednesday afternoon. Jackson was such a big boy and sat up by himself!

Totally Cute Tuesday - The Quilt

2009-03-31T11:19:00.012-05:00

Nana, Gramma, Tammy, Mandi, Julianna, Terri and their friend Nonia have been working very hard on quilting Jackson's baby quilt the past couple of weeks. Each Aunt, Grandmother, Me, Mandi, and Cathie worked very hard embroidering a square for the quilt. They mailed them all to Nana (Robin) and she begin the process of quilting it. Let me tell you it looks wonderful. Brandon has one of these family quilts from when he was a baby and now Jackson has one too. This is something we will cherish for a lifetime!

Gramma, Mandi, Robin, Tammy, and Julianna working hard on the quilt.

Gramma, Tammy, and Robin showing off their handy work

Cathie's Square

Mimi's Square

Gramma's Square

Aunt Terri's Square

Aunt Tammy's Square

Mammaw's Square

Nana's Square

Aunt Bec's Square

Aunt Teeny's Square

Mandi's Square

Aunt Shelia's Square

Mommy's Square

Aunt Kathy's Square

Brandon's Baby Quilt

Jackson's Baby Quilt

Mommy and Jackson on his new quilt

Nana and Jackson on his new quilt

Jackson on his new quilt

He's Sitting Up!

2009-03-29T19:44:00.005-05:00

Today marked the first day that Jackson balanced himself while sitting up! He stayed up for about 3 minutes and we were so proud of him! He is getting to be such a big boy. He is sitting up just in time for our NICU follow-up appointment on Thursday. After he figured out how to sit up he wanted to sit up the whole evening. Not only is he sitting up but he is showing more and more interest in holding his bottle. If it is not too full he can hold it in his mouth. We are excited and are now awaiting the day he starts to crawl. Hum, crawling might not be such a good thing, he will be into everything!

Totally Cute Tuesday - Afternoon at the Park

2009-03-24T11:10:00.006-05:00

On Sunday Brandon and I took Jackson to the park for the afternoon. It was very relaxing laying in the shade and it was such a beautiful day. I wish I could say that about today. It is gray, cloudy, and rainy today and while we need the rain I love the feel of the warm sun on my face when we are out for a walk.

Today Jackson went in for a weigh in and while he was there they also gave him another synygis shot just to tide him over for the last week of March. Dr. Ransom said that we will be able to take him out starting in April. Only a week away and we will be free! While I might take him out here and there he is still not supposed to be around sick people and I am still nervous about big crowds. We will be taking baby steps introducing him to society.

I was worried that he might not have gained very much weight because he is still constipated and has not been eating very well. The Karo syrup that the doctor is having us add to his bottles helped for a little bit but I have had to up the dose in hopes that it will continue to help him. He has however gained weight and he now weighs 13 pounds 12 ounces. We are slowly but surely scooting our way up the growth chart. Someday he will catch up!

I also wanted to mention that Brandon, Jackson and I will be walking in the March of Dimes walk in College Station on May 2nd. We would love for you to come out and join us. We feel very blessed to have Jackson in our life. Without the research that March of Dimes has done and continues to do in helping premature births Jackson might not be here today. That’s why we have formed a Family Team to raise money and participate in March for Babies. If you would like to help support the March of Dimes by sponsoring us in our walk visit http://www.marchforbabies.org/teams/660438. It is important to find out why premature birth happens and what can be done to prevent it. By raising money, ongoing research to answer these critical questions is funded.

I hope you enjoy the pictures of Brandon and Jackson from the park on Sunday!

9 Months Old

2009-03-20T20:43:00.003-05:00

Today Jackson is 9 months old. He is growing bigger and stronger each and every day. He is trying really hard to sit up. He can balance himself for a couple of seconds before he falls over. He puts his hands out like he is surfing to try and balance himself. He is enjoying sitting in his walker more and more everyday. He can't reach the ground yet but I put a box underneath him and he kicks it with his feet. He continues to amaze us each and everyday. Hope you enjoy the video.

Totally Cute Tuesday - Like Father Like Son

2009-03-17T10:07:00.004-05:00

This morning we took some pictures of Brandon and Jackson in their matching outfit. I thought they turned out so cute.

Last week Jackson was feeling a little under the weather with his tummy. He has been constipated and I took him in to the doctor. Jackson is now having Karo Syrup in every bottle and he is feeling 100% better. The fussiness has gone and he has become a "regular" guy. They also weighed him and he now weighs 13 pounds 5 ounces! He is such a little chunker! That is 12 pounds more than he weighed at birth!

Mimi and Pop have come to visit for a couple of days and are soaking up every minute of Jackson they can get.

I love you Daddy!

Totally Cute Tuesday - The Playground

2009-03-10T07:57:00.006-05:00

Last week we made our first trip to the playground in the neighborhood. This is a visit that I know Jackson is going to remember for the rest of his life. On second thought, maybe not. Good thing Nana was there and snapped these photos to commemorate the experience.

I am not really quite sure what this thing is but Mommy sounds excited about it.

I think that I am starting to understand. It is kind of like my swing only Mommy has to push it.

Not too shabby! I like this thing!

I'm not quite sure about this thing though!

Totally Cute Tuesday - Wednesday Version

2009-03-04T17:07:00.003-06:00

Yesterday got away from me before I realized that I hadn't made a post. Hopefully this picture will make up for that. Jackson is sitting up even more every single day and it is so fun to watch him discovering new things.

Totally Cute Tuesday - Circa 1984

2009-02-24T21:11:00.004-06:00

Today I thought I would take you back in time. The year was 1984, I was 3 years old and my cousin Summer was a 1 1/2 year old. We had some good times throughout the years. Every time I visit Mammaw's house I have to go dig in the bathroom cabinet for all the photo albums from our childhood. Mammaw is very meticulous and she's kept a detailed record in pictures of most of the shenanigans that my brothers and my cousins pulled over the years. For example the photo below is dated July 5, 1984. All the photos in her photo album have a date on the back and who is in the picture. I wish I could be that organized! I guess my blog will be my legacy. At least all of the posts have dates. That counts, right?

This weekend Summer and I dug out the photo albums once again. Except this time we weren't kids looking over the pictures. We were grown ups reminiscing about all the good times we had throughout the years. Summer has three children one of which is a newborn born 3 weeks ago. Since Jackson is not allowed to be around children yet she left the two older ones at home and brought the brand new baby. We felt that it was safe for him to be around the newborn. The second picture below is of Summer, me, Jackson, and Lexie. Just think in about 5 years Jackson and Lexie could be looking through the photo albums probably wondering why their mothers were so silly.

Me and Summer - I was bossy even then and was probably holding her on the chair because I wanted to pose for a picture with her.

Me, Jackson, Summer, and Lexie - We couldn't get Jackson to face forward because he was too busy looking at Lexie probably wondering what this tiny thing was that looks like a person. He hasn't seen another baby since the NICU.

8 Months Old

2009-02-23T15:33:00.003-06:00

On Saturday Jackson turned 8 months old! The time has really flown by! Today we went in for a well check and he weighed 12 pounds 10 ounces and was 23 inches long. He is currently in the 10th percentile for a 4 month old for weight and height. His head has caught up and is on the charts for his actual age. With a head like that it must mean he is going to be a genius. He! He! The doctor is pleased with how well he is doing and we just have to go in for a weight check in a month. He got a synygis shot today and the doctor said that it will probably be his last one unless they have a high number of RSV cases later on in March. Jackson is thrilled with the fact this might be his last shot for a couple of months. The poor thing has been poked more than a lot of people get poked in a lifetime. Luckily he won't remember it all.

This weekend we headed to East Texas to visit both sides of our family. On Friday night and Saturday night Nana and Grandad watched him overnight while Brandon and I spent the night in Gramma and Granpa's cabin. Gramma and Granpa are in Port Aransas right now and frankly I don't know why they would ever want to leave the little sanctuary of their cabin. It is so peaceful and we really enjoyed ourselves. Then on Sunday we headed over to Mammaw's house for a nice visit with Mimi, Pop, and Mammaw. Jackson even got to meet his brand new baby cousin Lexie who is only a couple of weeks old. It was such a pleasant weekend. All in all Jackson is doing wonderful and is now out for the evening sleeping like a baby.

I am not biased or anything but I think he could be a baby model for Gap Kids. He is such a handsome little bugger. What do you think?

Our cozy little family.

Mammaw and Jackson

Mimi and Jackson

Report

2009-02-19T20:29:00.004-06:00

Today as I sit here and type this post I can't help but think about how blessed I truly am. Jackson has come such a long way and each day he seems to grow even more. Today a physical therapist came in and evaluated Jackson. He is scoring at a 5 month mark for gross motor skills. They expect him to be scoring at a 4 month mark because that is is adjusted age. She was very pleased with how well he is doing. Some of the great things that my little super hero can do are:

1. He can roll from his tummy to his back. It is so cute to watch him do it. He tucks his leg up underneath him and then pushes with his leg and his arm and over he goes.

2. He is smiling and laughing at you when you make silly faces.

3. He tries to talk back to you when you talk to him.

4. He is starting to gain more head control and can now hold is head up for longer periods of

time.

5. He holds onto toys in his hands and is starting to reach out for toys that are in front of him.

6. He loves watching all the colors on the TV.

7. He enjoys sitting in his high chair and watching what everyone is doing.

8. He loves eating and smiles and laughs at you while he is eating.

9. He is starting to push his chest up when he is doing his tummy time.

10.He is constantly sucking on his hands.

As you can see Jackson has been very busy and has come a long way from this picture taken at the beginning of August.

Then

Now

Totally Cute Tuesday - I've Got a Problem

2009-02-17T21:48:00.004-06:00

Hello, my name is Kathryn and I'm a picture-a-holic. It all started on June 21, 2008 when a little guy came into my life. Since then I have had a problem being away from my camera for longer than 24 hours. It made the addiction even worse when Brandon got me a new camera for Christmas. On top of that I got photoshop which can be quite addictive in itself. The little guy already has about a million pictures of him and he is not even 8 months old. This is an addiction that I feel I can not give up. My little guy now weighs 12 pounds 6 ounces and is growing and eating more every single day. How could I not capture that! This is an addiction worth keeping!

Totally Cute Tuesday - Weekend Trip

2009-02-10T11:03:00.003-06:00

This past weekend we headed down to Port Aransas and had a little bit of beach fun. It was a little to windy and cool for Jackson to sit on the beach with us but he did get to see his first dolphin. We met Gramma and Granpa down there and we had fun walking around down and hanging out. The car ride was a little long but thank goodness Uncle Danny went with us and sat in the back seat with Jackson. All in all it was a wonderful weekend getaway!

Jackson all wrapped up for his first walk in Port Aransas.

Jackson in his button down Hawaiian shirt and khaki shorts just like Daddy wears all summer long.

A family photo!

Caution: Crazy drunken pelican landing

Beautiful!

Totally Cute Tuesday - Weekend Agenda

2009-02-03T20:43:00.003-06:00

Saturday Morning: Hmm, I wonder if this economic stimulus package will really change things. As long as the Pampers company keeps making diapers I think I'm good.

Saturday Afternoon: Seriously Mom, I am ready to go for my walk.

Then and Now

2009-01-29T20:58:00.005-06:00

Today I decided to snap some pictures of things from Jackson's NICU days so you can put into perspective just how much he has grown. He is currently 11 pounds 4 ounces and has a really fat belly!

One June 23, 2008 - 2 days old

Notice the tiny micro-preemie diaper

January 29, 2009 - 7 months 1 week old

July 7, 2008 - 2 weeks old

Notice the gold duck sticker that is on his chest

January 29, 2009 - 7 months 1 week old

July 15, 2008 - 3 weeks old
Jackson's very first outfit

January 29, 2009 - 7 months 1 week old

Amazing!

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2009-01-28T17:19:00.002-06:00

A Note from Jackson:

Happy Birthday Daddy! I love you so much! You are such a good Daddy to me. When I grow up I want to read books in the library with you.

Totally Cute Tuesday - Talking Jackson

2009-01-27T19:43:00.002-06:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

7 Months Old

2009-01-21T21:20:00.006-06:00

Jackson is 7 months old today. Oh, how time flies. This time last year I was injecting myself with shots to get pregnant with him. Every single shot was worth it. The past couple of days Jackson has started to really come out of his shell.

Hmmm, Mommy says that I can call Daddy with this.
I think she is a little crazy sometimes.

King of the remote.

Sleeping peacefully

His favorite place to sleep.

Uncle Danny putting him to sleep.

Getting his 3 Little Pigs blanket from Gramma

P.S. I have the best husband in the world! He looks so handsome in this picture.

Totally Cute Tuesday - My Little Man

2009-01-20T15:47:00.003-06:00

Great Gramma and Great Granpa

2009-01-16T17:59:00.004-06:00

When we arrived home from Temple yesterday Jackson's Great Gramma and Great Granpa were waiting for us. This is how Jackson has spent the past 24 hours...

25% being fed by Gramma

25% sleeep in bed

25% sleeping on Gramma or Granpa

25% being held by Gramma or Granpa

My arms have gotton quite a little break! This in turn means that I am going to have to break him of the being held all the time once again. Anyway, Nana is having a hissy fit in Mexico waiting for the pictures of Gramma and Granpa holding him. So, by popular demand...

To Temple, To Temple

2009-01-15T21:16:00.003-06:00

To Temple, to temple to visit the doc.
Home again, home again, jiggity jog.

Today we made the trip over to Temple for our 3 month adjusted NICU follow up appointment plus an eye appointment. As I was pulling into the parking lot of the hospital with a screaming Jackson in the back seat, I couldn't help but think how I felt like I was coming home. I know, strange feeling to feel when pulling into a hospital parking lot, but I did pull into that parking lot millions of time a day for millions of days in a row thinking when will I ever go home.

After parking I quickly set to work getting Jackson out of the car with all of his baby gear and we met Mimi at the door to the hospital. After a quick bottle we headed over to the clinic and got to see his doctor and his nurse practitioner from his NICU days. The first thing they did was weigh him and the little porker is now 11 pounds 3 ounces. He is in the 10th percentile in weight for a 3 month old. Then the occupational therapist did an evaluation on him and determined him to be functioning at a 3 month level. She gave me some things I can do with him to help him progress even further. Jackson decided to scream through the whole evaluation so I really don't know how well of an assessment she was able to do. After she was done his doctor came in and did an evaluation on him. She was very pleased by how much weight he had gained however she was worried that his muscles seemed to be a little tight. She wants us to do stretches 3 times a day to help loosen up the muscles. This is probably do to the fact that he laid in a bed in the NICU for so long without moving around much. In the womb a baby can wiggle around all they want but if they come early they spend that time in a bed which can cause the tightness in their muscles. Other than that she was very pleased with how well he is doing and Jackson decided to smile for her.

After we left the NICU followup we headed straight over to his eye appointment. Of course it is in another building so we had to load Jackson up in the car along with all his gear. When taking him out at the eye doctor we decided to forgo taking most of the gear out of the car as we were not going up and down elevators here. By that time Jackson was ready for another bottle. This gave us something to do while we waited for the doctor to grace us with his presence. The verdict on the eyes is that the retinas look wonderful. No more signs of ROP. As far as the eye sight Jackson is ok right now but will probably require glasses at about 2 or 3 for nearsightedness. The doctor wants to see us back in 4 months for a follow up appointment. We knew with the Westerheim genes he was very likely to have poor eyesight so this is not too much of a shock. If all he ends up having wrong with him from his prematurity is that he has to wear glasses then I say we came out pretty darn good.

After the eye appointment we went to visit all of our old friends at the NICU. They had been expecting us all day and it was wonderful to see how excited they were to see Jackson. The first thing out of most of their mouths was, "Wow, he is so chunky." Wonderful words to hear when we started out so small. We also saw some of the parents of babies currently in the NICU. I hope that it really boosted their spirits seeing how well Jackson is doing.

After a long day Jackson and I are extremely tired. Jackson has already called it a night and I hear the bed calling my name. Pictures to come tomorrow of the visitors we had waiting for us at home when we arrived.

News Flash!

2009-01-14T21:41:00.002-06:00

Jackson rolled over for the very first time today! He was fussing in his bed and I went in there and he had rolled from his tummy to his back. Then later in the evening we had him in his bed and he was pulling his leg underneath his body trying to push himself over again. He is getting to be such a big boy! Hopefully I can get some pictures of it in the next couple of days!

Totally Cute Tuesdays - Eating

2009-01-13T22:09:00.006-06:00

Today Jackson started eating rice cereal! He did wonderful! He just munched it right down and we are going to do it again tomorrow. Right now he is just eating rice cereal once a day. In a week we might up it to 2 times a day. He was so cute eating and was smiling the whole time. He is such a big boy!

As a side note Brandon's cousin Mandy has been playing with photoshop the past couple of days and pulled out some pictures from our wedding almost 5 years ago. It was neat getting to see them on her page. Check it out http://wedrankthekoolaid.blogspot.com/. Thanks Mandy!

Jackson loves it when Uncle Danny comes over because it means automatic holding. My arms really appreciate it too!

This morning I went into my closet to put on my bath robe to go and feed Jackson. When I walked back into our bedroom he had made his way into our bed!

Look at me Mama. I am such a big boy!

Isn't this what everyone looks like after they eat?

That was fun Mommy and Daddy! Can I have more please?

The Past Few Days

2009-01-08T21:16:00.002-06:00

The past few days have been filled with a couple of visits from Jackson's grandparents. Nana and Grandad came down for a couple of days before hopping on a plane to Mexico for 5 weeks. They are all set up down there with Skype so that they can see him everyday even though they won't really be here. They are really going to miss a lot but I know that they are going to have a ball down there. I mean who wouldn't. I would love to have my toes in the sand right now, be sippin' on a Margarita, and reading a good book. But, I also love getting to see all the new things Jackson does everyday.

Once they left Mimi headed to College Station to get her Jackson time in. She is currently rocking him to sleep in his room. I love grandparents! It gives me the well needed break to just be me.

On Monday Jackson will go in to get his 6 month shots and then on Thursday we are headed to Temple for his NICU followup appointment and his eye appointment. At his eye appointment they are going to be able to get an idea of what his vision will be. I am betting that it is pretty good because he is completely enthralled with the TV when his Baby Einstein videos are on. I am excited for the NICU follow up because we will get to see all of his friends from the NICU!

Here are some pictures taken over the past couple of days.

Is he handsome or what!

Smiling at Mimi

He rode in his stroller for the first time yesterday without the carseat. He is growing up so fast.

Nana and Jackson

Totally Cute Tuesdays!

2009-01-06T22:04:00.004-06:00

This is the very first Tuesday of the year and to make it special I decided to start a special Tuesday post where I post a cute picture or story or both. Today I chose both.

Jackson is really starting to come alive. Over the past couple of days he has discovered that he has hands. They fascinate him and you can just see the little wheels turning in his head.

And back by popular demand...

A Note from Jackson:

I have been looking around a lot lately and there are these things that I see a lot in front of my face. They wiggle all around. I really want to figure out what those things are. I keep looking and looking at them. Sometimes I feel like I can move those things. What are they? Mommy says they are my hands whatever those are.

Blackmail

2009-01-05T17:14:00.002-06:00

He is going to hate me someday for this picture but it is just too cute not to share!

Just for Fun

2009-01-04T10:15:00.003-06:00

Here is a cute set of pictures just for the fun of it!

Here's Looking at You Kid

2009-01-03T12:20:00.003-06:00

Cutie Pie Alert!

2009-01-02T19:38:00.003-06:00

The past week we have been getting back into our normal routine and Jackson has been having to get used to not being held 24 hours a day. I have also decided that I am going to have to invest in a set of ear plugs because breaking him of his need to be held all the time has been a loud experience. Enjoy the pictures, but be warned they are extremely cute!

Happy New Years!

2008-12-31T23:47:00.002-06:00

As 12 o'clock approaches I told myself that I would actually stay up until 12 this new years. Last year we could of actually done something. This year we would need a babysitter to go out and do anything. It is amazing how much things change in a year. I am very grateful for the change! We did have Brandon's brother over for dinner and even opened up a bottle of bubbly! I know fancy smancy! As I sit here typing I am thinking about those dreaded New Years resolutions and I have vowed to come up with some of my own.

1. Drink less
2. Smoke less
(Wait a minute those are Bridget Jone's New Years resolutions and they don't really apply to me. Okay, time to be serious now. I must think hard.)

1. Get Fit and loose the last little bit of pregnancy weight! I say that I am going to do this every year but as my 10 year high school reunion looms around the corner (I know, how did I get that old) I am dying to look good.

2. Get Organized! It is time to finally move into my house and unpack all of my boxes. I should have everything unpacked just in time for us to move again in a couple of months. Yes, I know we are crazy and we do move a lot. At least we only make in town moves and not long distance moves.

3. Tell Jackson that I love him everyday! He is such a little angel, even when he is screaming bloody murder, that this is a must.

4. Do nice things for my hubby daily! Brandon is such a great husband I need to make sure he knows that.

5. Smile everyday! I know this sounds silly but smiling seems to make everything better even when you are blue.

There they are. All 5 of my life changing New Years resolutions. Not all of them are hard but they are all attainable and that is what I like.

December Doctors Appointment

2008-12-29T19:03:00.005-06:00

Today Jackson went to the doctors and boy was it good news all around. He now weighs 10 pounds 4 ounces and is 21 1/2 inches long. He is in the 10th percentile for weight for a 2 month old. I am just happy that he is on the chart for his adjusted age. His doctor looks more at the growth curve as compared to the percentile. He is very happy with his growth curve and says that he is growing faster than a normal baby which means if he keeps growing like he has been he will catch up sometime between 9 months and a year.

About his picky eating habits the doctor said that because he is growing so well we don't have to put the formula in anymore! Not having the formula with all the extra iron will help his little pooping problem. I am hoping that I don't have to give any more glycerins! The doctor wants me to try and start him on solids in about a month. It is a little bit before his 4 months adjusted age but the doctor doesn't want him to develop any swallowing aversions because we waited too long. He wants him to start on rice cereal and if he doesn't like that go ahead and move on to fruits.

Jackson is growing and doing more and more every day. Today he smiled, giggled, and cooed at his farm animals toy. He is kicking his legs and wiggling all around. He has also discovered his tongue. He plays with it all the time now. Sticking it in and out of his mouth and moving it all around. He is so cute!

All in all it was a wonderful doctors visit and we are looking forward to all that the future has to offer!

Nana and Jackson

What a cutie pie!

A picture of the wide open road on our way home on Sunday!

Our Little Sweetheart

2008-12-26T21:50:00.007-06:00

Today Jackson has decided that he only wants to eat fresh milk. He screams bloody murder if you try and feed him any frozen milk or if you try and add the formula to his milk like we are supposed to for the extra calories. He has officially become a food snob! However, these cute pictures make up for the fact that he is becoming SPOILED!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T19:11:00.004-06:00

I hope that everyones Christmas day was filled with lots of family, friends, and love. Ours certainly was. Here are some pictures of Jackson and the family enjoying all of our presents. Lets just say that when Jackson was not sleeping today he was smiling and happy. He is truely our best Christmas gift ever!

Jackson in his walker that Santa brought him.

Same trying to dig a hole for his new bone.

Smiling on Grandads lap!

6 months old!

2008-12-21T23:11:00.007-06:00

In a couple of minutes...at 11:54 p.m. Jackson will officially be 6 months old. This weekend we went to Georgetown to visit Mimi and Pop. Uncle Kyle came over to visit as well as Uncle Phillip and Aunt Bec. We also had a suprise visit from Santa Claus himself. Here are some pictures that I took over the weekend.

On Mimi's scale Jackson weighed 10 1/4 pounds! We will take him in on Tuesday to get weighed officially and get his synygis shot.

Aunt Bec and Jackson

Uncle Kyle and Jackson

Jackson and Santa Claus

Jackson and Santa Claus

If only his Cousin Avery were here to push him around.

Sam watching over Jackson on the car ride home.

A Little Bit of Perspective

2008-12-17T23:13:00.003-06:00

As Jackson's 6 month birthday is getting nearer and nearer I started to look back at the pictures from 6 months ago. Here is a little bit of perspective for you to see how much he has grown these past 6 months. While he is not the size of an average 6 month old he is a giant compared to where he started from.

July 14, 2008

December 15, 2008

July 2, 2008

December 15, 2008

Two Months Adujsted

2008-12-15T16:06:00.002-06:00

Today Jackson is two months adjusted which is two months after his original due date. Here are some pictures from the last couple of days. He is now starting to smile at you when you talk, holding his head up more, and developing quite a personality.

Read my shirt Mommy and do what it says. Okay!

I think it time to take everything out of his crib. We have a baby on the move.

Posing in his Santa suit.

Oh the Weather Outside is Frightful...

2008-12-10T17:24:00.004-06:00

It's snowing! It's snowing! It's snowing!

I know that for you northerners snow is not such a big thing but here in Texas snow is a rarity. I can't remember the last time I saw snow in Texas. It is so beautiful! It really makes it feel like Christmas is here. Here are some pictures I snapped today of the snow.

2 Months at Home

2008-12-09T20:02:00.003-06:00

Today Jackson has been home from the NICU for two whole months! He is getting bigger and eating more and more everyday. He is starting to smile, wiggle all around, and coo at us. He is no longer doing his breathing treatments and we were able to stop a couple of medications. It is amazing how far we have come. I promise to post some new pictures in the next couple of days. I have a fussy baby sitting next to me. He seems to only be happy when you are holding him. Thanks Mimi and Nana for spoiling him!

The Holiday Season

2008-11-30T14:31:00.006-06:00

It has been a busy couple of days. Thanksgiving was great and we are now working on getting the house all decorated for Christmas. Here is our life in pictures.

Jackson and Grandad all color coordinated in their fall colors.

Pop and Uncle Kyle arrive for Thanksgiving dinner. Mimi had been here all week helping me get ready.

Nana you don't have to hold me up. I can sit up in my bumbo seat all by myself.

Sam lounging in his bed after he gave up trying to get any turkey while it was being cooked.

Gig'em Aggies!

Jackson tried to help cheer on the Aggies but it didn't quite work.

Pop and Jackson stuffed full of turkey.

Pop's little buckaroo!

Cutting down the Christmas tree. Jackson slept through the whole visit to the Christmas tree farm.

Jackson and Daddy!

Get it on there tight. We want to make it home with the Christmas tree.

We got it cut down just in the knick of time.

Don't worry Christmas tree. I will save you!

Must hold on! Must hold on!

I got an early stocking stuffer!

I know where everything should go on the Christmas tree. I have been doing this for years.

No Daddy! More lights! More lights!

That's right! You did it Daddy!

Sleep!

2008-11-26T19:52:00.002-06:00

I am very pleased to report that last night Jackson slept the whole entire night. He went to bed about 10pm and didn't wake up until 7am. I kept waking up and going into his room to check on him because I was worried that something was wrong. He sure was hungry when he woke up! I also would like to report that he had to go into the doctor again today for his synygis shot for RSV and they weighed him again. He now weighs 8 pounds 13 ounces. He is such a big boy!

I'm a Big Boy Now!

2008-11-25T20:09:00.010-06:00

Today Jackson had a doctors appointment and he now weighs
8 pounds 10 ounces!
Can you believe it! I know that he is a little over 5 months old but you have a lot of catching up to do when you start out at 1 pound 5 ounces. The doctors appointment went great and we are getting to stop his breathing treatments. They also drew blood today and we should get the results back tomorrow. If everything looks good then on Monday we can stop the diuretic and sodium. He wants to see how he does without the breathing treatments before he stops the other that way in case he starts to have breathing problems we will know which one we would need to put him back on. So hopefully he will do well off the breathing treatments and we can have the go ahead to stop the other. That would mean the only meds he would be on is his prevacid for his acid reflux and his vitamins.

When Jackson was in the NICU he found himself a girlfriend. His girlfriend also lives in the area and she has now come home from the NICU. The first thing the doctor told us when he walked in today was that he met Jackson's girlfriend. She is going to the same doctor as well.

Jackson got to talk to Great-Gramma and Great-Grandpa today on Skype! He was so excited to get to see their faces and hear their voices. They thought he looked so big. They are going to get to come down in a couple of weeks and Jackson is so excited!

Another wonderful thing happened today. Ever since he came home he has been needing glycerin to do his business. Today he did two jobs all on his own! We were so excited! I know, it is crazy to be excited about such a yucky thing but sticking something up his little bum is no fun at all for me or for him. So everything working like it should is a miracle in itself.

That is all for now. I promise to post more pictures soon!

An Experience!

2008-11-23T21:49:00.019-06:00

This weekend my Mom came to visit and got to spend some good quality time with Brandon, me, and Jackson. She was so nice she even let Brandon and I go out on a date. It was the first time I have been out to eat since Jackson came home. Brandon asked me where I wanted to go and I immediately thought of Red Lobster. You see all week long I had been seeing the commercial for the new wood fired grill meals at Red Lobster and afterwards practically drooling because it all looked so good. And boy let me tell you it was good! No crying baby, no spit up on my shirt, makeup on my face, and my hair was even fixed. The food wasn't bad either. Afterwards we were supposed to head over to Walmart right after lunch to get a few things but Brandon said that we needed to run by one of his houses that he is building in Bryan to check on something. I was a little whiny about this because I wanted to go shopping at Walmart and besides we had to drive right past Walmart to get to the house so why couldn't we stop there first and then go to the house. And wouldn't you know it he drove right past Walmart without even slowing down. What a mean man! I mean does he really want to get in the way of a woman and shopping. He's crazy! Crazy or not he kept on driving determined to get to the house to check on something or so I thought. About halfway to the house he takes a left onto a road I had never been down but I of course knew it wasn't the road to the house. For a second I thought Brandon, who is extremely bad with directions, just took a wrong turn. That is before I realized we were headed for the airport. You see my wonderful and charming husband surprised me with a plane ride over College Station. Boy did I feel stupid for complaining about not going to Walmart first. I was excited and nervous all at once. When the pilot asked me if I have ever been in a small plane I said I had been on an American Eagle flight before. He looked at me like I was a crazy loon! Those planes are small but huge compared to the Cessna. As we taxied down the runway the anticipation of leaving the ground was almost to much to take. With my seat belt on, earphones covering my ears, and my knees knocking the wheels left the ground. We were flying! As the ground started to get smaller and smaller I started to repeat in my head, "Please don't throw up, please don't throw up"! Pretty soon I forgot about that though as the amazing scenery started to catch my eye. The flight was amazing! We flew over our house, over Aggieland, and over the town. We saw a motorcycle race at the Texas World Speedway and people riding horses. The time flew by, imagine that, and pretty soon it was time to head back to the airport. As we landed I thought about how much of a wonderful thing I just experienced. It felt kind of funny to get in the car and drive after flying. We drove on over to Walmart and my crazy husband let me go shopping. Who would have thought that I would ever say this but the shopping experience that day did not hold a candle to flying. After Walmart we headed home to Mimi and little Jackson. I of course had to cuddle him the second I got home. As I hugged and kissed him I thought someday maybe he will get to go flying too!

Here are some pictures from this weekend with Mimi! Jackson had so much fun getting cuddled, played with, and sung to! He can't wait for his Mimi to come back!

Jackson using Mimi as a bed.

Rock me more Mimi, Rock me more!

Hello, I'm Jackson Westerheim.

What is a farm animal doing on my bed?

It must have been in search of his daddy. Are you my Daddy?

5 Months Old!

2008-11-21T19:59:00.002-06:00

Today Jackson is 5 months old! Time has flown by! Here are some pictures that I took of him today to celebrate being such a big boy!