Adventures in Garner Land!

It's almost Christmas!

2011-12-15T17:21:00.001-08:00

My sweet, sweet babies!

Two of my favorite people and my favorite season

2011-11-10T17:18:00.001-08:00

The most beautiful time of the year and the sweetest kids ever... Great combo!!

I've been trying to remember last years fall and it's a bit hazy. I guess due to all of the medicine and effects of Coopers traumatic birth, I spent most of the fall in that haze. A happy haze, though!

Anyway, we have had the best time enjoying the beautiful leaves, the cool air and being with our sweet baby boys. Love it!!

Our article in Gwinnett Magazine Online!

2011-09-12T17:10:00.000-07:00

http://www.gwinnettmagazine.com/2011/09/12/from-wires-to-wonders-gwinnett-medical-centers-technology-provides-babies-a-second-chance/?wwparam=1315840986

To quote a friend, "How could someone not have faith after that"? So true, Cheryl!!

Love,

The Garner Four

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There are no words for these...

2011-09-10T13:00:00.001-07:00

Love them!

Mobile Cooper

2011-09-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

Loves golf, just like Drew!

Where have we been?

2011-09-04T12:36:00.000-07:00

Having FUN!! Moving 24/7 with our mobile little man, and his super energized brother. Couldn't imagine life any busier or fun, so enjoy the pics!
Love,
The Garners

Boys and their cars (and trucks)

2011-06-02T15:21:00.001-07:00

This is how we spent our first summer break afternoon!
Love these two little guys (and their Daddy) more than life!
XO

Our babbling baby boy!

2011-05-30T05:56:00.000-07:00

Hopefully the video uploads properly.... It wouldn't work this weekend!

What have we been up to???

2011-05-26T17:17:00.001-07:00

Ok, this sounds bad, but facebook is just much faster to upload a picture to. Plus, I haven't had time for writing lately- see below :)

Corey has been in and out of town for the past month- his work schedule is INSANE in May and August. Much harder with two kids! Luckily, Grammy has been here to help when he travels... Most of the time. Anyway, it's the last month of school as well, and Cooper got his first ear infection (while Corey was out of town). Ugh! Oh well, it's just prepping me for being totally outnumbered by the kids. That's right- we are officially going to start the adoption process after Coopers first birthday! We can't wait to get started finding our daughter and the boys' baby sister. We are all so excited!!

Cooper is MOBILE!! Oh yes, I said mobile. It began with crawling about five weeks ago. Now our little Coops has been standing up, cruising and took two unassisted steps today! Our little superman doesn't even turn eight months until Saturday.

Drew and Cooper have been such a huge source of Corey and I's joy and entertainment lately. They love playing together and we have just been soaking in the hours watching them and loving on them. It's so sweet to hear their laughter and see their sweet smiles... Even as they chase each other around and give me a huge headache. But it's okay. Our boys are better friends than I ever could have imagined. Drew now calls him "Scoops" instead of "buddy", and Cooper just giggles and drools. He has one tooth and also says "Dada". So many things, so quickly!

We are beyond blessed. I think I'll go spend a little time with the amazing man who gave me our two little blessings.
Love from the Garners

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Oops... I haven't been blogging!

2011-05-26T17:12:00.001-07:00

Brothers

2011-03-15T18:53:00.001-07:00

Tonight the boys were so incredibly sweet. We had a rushed evening of karate immediately after school, quick dinner at W Foods and then cookie decorating for preschool tomorrow and the making of a leprechaun trapper. Finally it was bath and snack/movie time. Wow- so quickly!! Thank goodness Grammy is here helping me while Corey is in Orlando for business.

Ugh- his spring travel season. I'd forgotten how much he has to travel January through May. Thank goodness for family and friends! Two little boys, a full time job and three times a week karate lessons... Its exhausting! Add in cooking dinner, doing laundry and making sure that uniform is clean, bottles and formula, st patricks day cookies and activities, you name it. But I love my life and wouldn't have it any other way. Truly!

I asked D to sit with Cooper while I did something in the kitchen and he took his train book and laid down with him. He showed him the book and played with him and the "babbling bee" (one of his old baby toys that Cooper loves). He called me in to take a picture of him and "buddy"- his nickname for his baby brother.

I just love these boys. So much more than I ever thought was humanly possible. Having Drew made Corey and I understand unconditional love in an amazing way we thought was un toppable... Only to find out that seeing our two sons together and loving each other and playing together- immeasurable joy. We are so blessed!!

Love,
The Garners

I'm so proud of my sweet boy!

2011-03-08T17:58:00.001-08:00

Tonight was Drew's first karate class. My heart swelled with pride as Corey and I watched him participate and have fun with new friends in his karate class. It was amazing! He did his kicks, punches, listened and made me the proudest mommy in the world. Cooper was very well behaved and watched everything with interest.

Seeing Drews eyes light up and know that we were proud of him and hearing us say "great job, Drew" helped our big boy who has been needing some extra attention. I'm so glad he has this class to make him feel special and have something just for him. Our little man has certainly had his world rocked by having sweet baby Cooper come into the family. This was good for him. He has already asked to go back to karate tomorrow (it's T, R, S)!

Having my sweet baby in my arms and my amazing husband with me watching our incredible little first born being a shining star... My cup runneth over!

Prayers for Maddie and the Staats Family

2011-02-27T16:03:00.000-08:00

http://kandjstaats.blogspot.com/

I stumbled upon a story on my "mommy boards" on the WTE (What to Expect) app on my iphone. It was about a baby named Maddie who had passed away, and I inquired about the family's blog. I haven't been able to stop reading it all weekend.

Please pray for the Staats family. I don't think I could ever be as brave and amazing as they are. I also couldn't ever imagine losing Drew or Cooper.

Since I came across the blog on Friday, I haven't wanted Drew or Cooper out of my sight. Especially Cooper, since he is just two weeks older than Baby Maddie. I have prayed for this family all weekend, and will continue to do so.

It's stories like these that make people really cherish their children and the little lives that we are priviledged enough to be blessed with.

Go hug and kiss your babies. I know I'm going to.

Cooper in his crib!

2011-02-25T11:53:00.000-08:00

Cooper started sleeping in his crib last weekend... What a big boy!

Bathtime fun!

2011-02-06T13:15:00.000-08:00

Our sweet boys LOVE to take a bath together! Drew can't hold Cooper in the tub without him taking a "swim", so I usually end up taking one too! Love these sweet little water babies and can't wait to spend almost every day at the pool with them this summer.
XXOO!

Specific Creations!

2011-02-02T08:00:00.001-08:00

My awesome room mother has such a wonderful business- Specific Creations! Custom Apparel, Embroidery and Unique Gifts. What an amazing job she does, in addition to being a busy mother of two adorable kids. Her sweet daughter is in my class and I have had the pleasure of knowing her since she was a kindergarten book buddy of mine. She made the boys shirts and is making more fashionable spirit wear for me to dazzle in!

She can use your provided clothing, or use her many suppliers to find what you need. Being a busy mom of two, I asked her to find the shirts for me :) Each finished product is beautifully packaged and a gift in itself. Her prices are very reasonable and quality is excellent.

If anyone needs custom gifts and adorable clothing for their kids or themselves, call my wonderful friend, Mrs. Letisha Adams at 678- 923-2368 or visit her website
www.specificcreations.net
Happy Creating!!

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Specific Creations!

2011-02-02T07:57:00.001-08:00

Just because

2011-01-13T04:57:00.001-08:00

My heart swells when I watch my sweet sons together. Each day I'm more amazed at not only how much they look alike, but how infatuated they are with each other. Drew loves to talk and sing to Cooper, and Coop just gazes at him and grins. Coop lights up when he sees his big brother. My cup runneth over.

It's been awhile!

2011-01-12T11:09:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since I've blogged! I would say sorry, but I'm honestly not :) I've been enjoying time with my three boys so much! I love my blog followers though, so I'm going to make it up to you.

New Years 2011 was great! Well, it brought the stomach bug to our two babies, but otherwise, NYE was wonderful. One of our sweet NICU angels sat for the boys while we had a daytime date and then spent the evening with the boys. We saw a movie, had dinner and a great time! Happy to see our boys at the end of the afternoon. That night, Drew threw up. We just thought he ate too much (he has had a HUGE appetite lately) and was running around too much. The next day, it was apparent that he was sick. He had this bug until Monday night! Poor baby was even sick on his birthday. Thankfully, he was able to go back to his beloved preschool on Wednesday. He was the snack helper and so proud of the sprinkle cupcakes he helped me make. Unfortunately, on Tuesday, Cooper came down with the bug. Mind you, Monday was my first day back from maternity leave. Super Dad to the rescue! He took care of the boys for most of the week, and they were both back at Nannies by Thursday. I am so blessed to have him! So are the boys :)

Anyway, the first week back at school was better than I thought it would be. I have the sweetest second graders, the best parents, an awesome principal, coworkers and an overall great school. My kiddos kept me busy and it was good to see my friends again. It was hard getting my head wrapped around "work", though. I cherish each moment I have before and after school with Drew and Cooper.

This week brought an unexpected extra few days with our boys! We have been snowed (iced) in and Corey has been unable to go to work, so it's been nice. Although... cabin fever is beginning to set in just a bit. I am still so thankful for the extra time to have with the kids. I miss my boys when I'm at work all day :(

Cooper is amazing us with his skills. He has matered rolling over and is the happiest baby. He giggles, coos and tries to "talk" to Max and Ruby on TV. He loves that show! Not that I let him watch it much, but sometimes he has his bottle when D is watching it. Drew continues to be the best big brother. He loves Cooper so much and always wants to play with him (and his toys). The hard part is that our house echoes (with hardwoods downstairs and a cathedral ceiling foyer) and it's hard to keep him quiet when Cooper naps. Oh well!

Life with our boys is busy but wonderful. Wouldn't have it any other way! Can't wait till this weekend when we go to the Westin downtown and have dinner at the Sundial. Drew is going to be psyched to go up the huge elevator! It's my birthday weekend, but D will think it's for him. He is like his mommy, he loves staying in (luxury) hotels and exploring new places. Cooper likes it too. He did great on his first hotel stay over Christmas break. What a trooper. More later!

Love from the Garner's!

Coopers Birth Announcement

2011-01-02T13:01:00.001-08:00

Hello Green Birth Announcement

Shutterfly has custom baby invitations and birth announcements.

View the entire collection of cards.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T09:53:00.001-08:00

Warning- this is a long post :)

As I write this, I must admit I am sad to see 2010 gone. It was without a doubt, the best year ever. Our lives have completely changed- for the better! Corey and I were talking about that last night while one of our NICU angels watched the boys so we could have a date. More about our NICU angels later in this post.

Obviously we were glad to see 2009 go last year. With our miscarriage in October and having some issues to deal with regarding Corey and I, and an extremely rough work year for me with Corey traveling more, we were hoping for an amazing 2010- complete with another baby! God definitely had a plan, as we were pregnant by January. Actually, we conceived Cooper on Drew's third birthday :) Happy birthday, Drew! Haha Anyway, we were astounded by how much God provided us with each month. Last night as Corey and I prayed, we literally had at least two or three amazing things that had happened each month! Exciting new job opportunity for me, more time off for Corey, soccer for Drew, a new MomMobile for me for Mothers Day, two wonderful vacations, Drew beginning three day a week preschool, everything.

Then Cooper was born and life really changed. If you are reading this then you are most likely a friend or family member, so you know what happened. No need to re-live it. However, God really used it as an opportunity to change our lives 180 degrees! With his whole ordeal, we really reaffirmed our faith and were led by God. It was a good thing too, we needed his guidance and love to even get out of bed on those first few days as we were faced with the possibility of losing our sweet second son. Our families were here for us and literally took over so Corey and I could spend as much time in the NICU as possible. They were there for Drew as well, taking him to preschool, making him dinner, tucking him in. Making sure we ate and got rest. They were amazing and literally gave up their jobs and lives in Florida and Arkansas to take care of us. We would not have made it without our families. My school friends were amazing. They provided us with love, prayers, email, support and an incredible goody bag. Money for travel to the hospital and parking fees, lunches, dinner and gas. Magazines, our favorite candy and gifts for Drew and Cooper. They were so generous and wonderful and we were and still are so grateful! My second grade team of teachers were also incredibly kind an generous. As was my old fifth grade team of friends. My MOMS club and Drews preschool, Christian Beginnings provided meals for us for a good month almost. They are amazing friends and really helped when our families had to go home. Finally, when Cooper came home, God used it as another opportunity to change our lives. We were suddenly faced with a baby that we were terrified wouldn't make it, now that he was home with us and not with the NICU around to protect him. Couple that with my ppd and PTSD. Whew! Thankfully one of my best friends and wonderful husband convinced me to call my dr and get help for it. Thank you, Auntie Heather, as it truly helped me. I wouldn't have had the strength to get what I needed without your help and reassurance that it would not hurt me. Thank you Corey, as I felt you truly would not begrudge me getting help, and you were with me every step of the way. Many of you know how rough the first three weeks at home with Cooper were. Amazingly, Coreys boss was fine with him working from home and taking all the time he needed going to neurologists, orthopedists, hospitals, etc with Cooper and I for follow up appts. We are so blessed.

Our NICU angels. Where do I even begin? We love you all, so much. Our Super Cooper made it through Gods sweet grace and you, and we made it through this because of the same. The wonderful Dr Leigh and Dr Suskin who were Coops neurologists and kept us up to date and helped heal him. Deedy, Midge, Lauren, Mackenzie, Melissa, Amanda, Rob, Joy and the amazing staff that literally guided us through having a baby in the NICU. They loved Cooper and held him nonstop. Walked him around at night. Sang to him. Prayed for him. Made sweet signs on his isolate to cheer us up each day. Gave me Tylenol when I was so sore that I could barely walk into the NICU. Helped Cooper and I nurse and it worked the very first time. Called us to let us know how he was doing. Friended us on Facebook. Came to see us and make sure we were okay. Let us call them and ask silly questions. They have truly become family and we love going to visit them. We could NOT have made it without them. They made the hospital less scary. They made medical jargon easy to understand for this non-scientific mamma. I remember crying the day we were able to take Cooper home, because I wanted them to come with us. Two of them have even loved both of our boys so much that they have babysat them several times! Corey and I have had some adult time and we didn't have to worry about the boys. What an amazing gift. We consider them family and love them.

Corey and I were advised of "Babywise" through an old friend of mine. His wife and baby were having some of the exact troubles we were having with Cooper and they mailed us the book. We asked for Gods guidance in implementing it. It has worked wonders! Cooper immediately flourished and we all started sleeping better and had a much happier baby Cooper. It only took about three days!! Thank you, Monciaviz family! We also had guidance from a friend who used to teach at my school on tummy sleeping. Our little reflux baby is a much better sleeper and non puker on his tummy. Thank you, Sabrina for giving us the advice, research and reminder that God numbers Coopers days, not us. The rest of the time on my maternity leave has literally flown by. I am so in love with both of our boys and have relished in the joy of staying home with Cooper. We have enjoyed each day, playing, taking photos and videos, having lunch dates, shopping and most of all making memories. That was the best.

Drew had his first Christmas Pageant and class party. It brought tears to our eyes to see how he loved school and it is the perfect place for him to continue his education. It's his special place to shine.

Life is so different. We aren't so scheduled anymore. We don't have to be on the go all the time. We take spontaneous trips and vacations with the boys. We don't worry about keeping the house clean all the time. We have slowed down and enjoyed just being together. We still have Cooper sleeping in the bassinet next to our bed and we love it! We dont care if Drew comes in our bed some nights and mornings. We love it and so enjoy having both boys in our room. We trip over baby gear and just laugh, instead of cleaning up. We let Drew play with tons of toys and make the messes with him. We aren't so strict with Drew. We are almost always late places and never have dinner at the same time anymore. Some days we don't shower till the afternoon because we have been playing all morning. We have enjoyed family time more and made so many wonderful memories. We are all so different since Cooper joined our family and it's so much better. God has really changed our lives and we couldn't be happier.

For 2011, all we want is for our kids and families and friends to be healthy, happy and filled with Gods love. To feel all of the incredible things that we have felt. To continue to build our family- either biologically or adopted. Doesn't matter to us. To make the world better for our kids. To have them love their lives. To seek out new opportunities. To embrace change and see where it takes us. To start a program for NICU parents to give back all of the love, support an guidance they gave us. To do something great to help others. Simply, to live life to the fullest. Those are our resolutions. And we can fulfill them!

That was a long post, huh? Thanks for re-living the most incredible year of our lives. God bless and Happy New Year!!
Love,
The Garners

Time flies!

2010-12-21T12:02:00.001-08:00

I've meant to blog for days now, but just haven't had time! Seems like that happens alot lately- I never realized how busy being a mommy of two is. It's crazy, but I love it and wouldn't have it any other way!
The boys continue to amaze me with how much they love each other. Watching them together gives me the happiest feelings in the world. I always knew I loved my kids more than anything, and each day it just grows. Corey and I talk about how lucky we are each night and thank God for blessing us with them. Here are some pics from the last two weeks. Love from us!

Sweet boys

2010-12-08T11:46:00.001-08:00

The days are just flying by! Our itty bitty baby Cooper is ten weeks old!
Last weekend we had breakfast with Santa and went away to LLI for the nights of lights and a stay at Legacy Lodge. The boys did great and slept wonderfully in the hotel. We have really been getting into the Christmas spirit and enjoying being our little family of four and just spending time with each other. I love my little family!

Blessed

2010-12-01T08:57:00.000-08:00

As I write this I'm sitting with my beautiful baby Cooper sleeping at one of our favorite neighborhood coffee houses waiting on a good friend for lunch. Just thinking about how blessed we are to have these two amazing sons and that I have been able to stay home for the 12 weeks of my maternity leave. Honestly, it will be so incredibly hard to go back to work. I wish we could afford for me to be a stay at home mom. Its not something I ever thought I wanted, but I have changed so much since Coopers birth and these past nine weeks of staying home with the boys. Corey and I have talked and
we hope it's possible for me to stay at home with them in the future.

We have also been discussing our future children. Although we have been advised to not have anymore biological children for my health and the babies, we are hoping to adopt our daughter sometime. Id love to do that in about a year or two to have more time with the boys. I know our daughter is out there or will be soon and I'm so happy that Corey and I have been discussing it more and more. It is something i have dreamed of since I was young and Corey has shared the desire with me. It's not something we have started the paperwork process for yet, but it is something we are going to do and look forward to.

We feel so blessed by our children and have just been reveling in being with them all of the time. We are so lucky and blessed! Thank you God for all you have allowed us to have!

Love
The Garners

Thanksgiving!

2010-11-26T17:51:00.000-08:00

We have so much to be thankful for! The two sweeties below are the most important :)
Cooper turned eight weeks old on Tuesday- wow! My sweet baby boy will officially be two months old on Sunday. Where does the time go?
Things I'm thankful for:
My husband and my boys.
The doctors and nurses who saved Super Coopers life in the hospital.
Our families and how they love us and their grandsons... And spoil them!
Our health.
Our beautiful home.
Our friends.
My husbands job flexibility.
The wonderful Nanny and Papa who watch the boys every day.
My school.
My boss.
Drews preschool.
Gwinnett Medical Center NICU.
That I was able to forgive my OB for making the mistake of trying to deliver Cooper vaginally. So many people want to know why I don't hate him and how I could have forgiven him. And those are only the people who dont tell me that we should sue him. I just couldnt. Its not right. The answer is simple. He took care of Cooper and I for ten months. He has the most amazing bedside manner and is a wonderful Christian person. He made a mistake. Doctors aren't God.

Thankful for my life and those in it... Especially my amazing husband who helped make these angels...
Love
The Garners

Big brother, little brother

2010-11-21T06:57:00.000-08:00

I absolutely LOVE this picture! I don't know why it makes me laugh... maybe the look of Cooper curling his lip out unhappily. So funny! Drew is just beaming because we let him holdhis baby brother (which he loves to do), and Cooper was just not happy! Love these two boys more than I ever thought possible!!

Seven weeks old!

2010-11-17T16:54:00.000-08:00

I'm a day late as usual :) seems to be the norm these days!

Below is a pic of one of my fave times of day... Keeping Cooper awake in the evenings! Drew is such a great big brother and loves to play with Cooper and says "Here Coops, get it"!

Sweet baby Super Cooper is seven weeks old! Can't believe my maternity leave is half over already :( I'm loving it and enjoying it so much! Drew is still going to preschool and Nannies, so Cooper and I get alone time during the day. Hooray!

Life is good. We are so blessed each day!
Love,
The Garners

Six weeks old!

2010-11-11T12:12:00.001-08:00

I'm two days late posting this :)
This is Coopers favorite sleeping position... I know, on his tummy is taboo, but we monitor him closely. With reflux it's the most comfortable way for him to sleep.

We can't quite believe he is six weeks old and that we brought him home one month ago from Monday. Time sure flies! We are implementing parts of babywise and it seems to be going pretty well. Sweet Super Cooper is eating about every 3 hrs and we have gotten a few 4.5-5 hr stretches of nighttime sleep with him recently. Hooray! Trying to keep him up from 7-9 is hard, but if we can do that in the evenings it makes for only two middle of the night feedings. Yay!!

We love our sweet baby so much. So does Drew- he has shown so mug interest and love in his baby brother lately. He loves to kiss him and play with him, even pet him like a dog! But seriously, we have been so lucky with Drew loving Cooper so much.

I'd better get my sleepy son up from his nap and feed him!
Love from the Garners

Five weeks old!

2010-11-02T11:31:00.000-07:00

Sweet Super Cooper is five weeks old today! I still can't believe it sometimes. Part of me feels like he has always been here :)
I'm so happy that he is healthy and home. I'm even willing to overlook his haphazard sleeping and eating schedule! Corey is still shift sleeping with me, can't wait till one day soon that we can go to bed at the same time in the same bed! But for now, its the way it has to be for Cooper and us to function. We are so in love with our little guy. Thank you, God for giving him to us- no matter what lack of sleep and schedule we may have. Cooper is so worth it!
Love,
The Garners

Drew and Cooper

2010-11-01T12:16:00.001-07:00

These are just too precious! Can you tell how much Corey and I love pictures of our boys?!?!?

Happy Halloween!

2010-11-01T12:13:00.000-07:00

Success! Well, Cooper was awake for about the first five minutes of trick or treat, but we at least got some cute pictures!
Drew wanted to be Buzz Lightyear, but hated the head cover part of his costume... So we had to bribe him with M&Ms. He did finally and Cooper the monkey was awake for a few pictures. We were so proud of the boys as Drew held Cooper for one of the pics- I'll upload soon!
Love,
The Garners

One month old!

2010-10-28T13:00:00.000-07:00

I can't quite believe that one month has gone by. I was just about four cm dilated at this point one month ago... As you know, things quickly took a turn for the worse in the next two hours. But I don't want to focus on that today. I want to focus on our little miracle fighter baby here. As I told our very good friends the Buchanans, I've finally stopped asking God "why" this happened to us. Instead, I choose to ask "what can I learn and how can I help people in this situation". I truly have a new respect for the medical field, nurses, doctors and parents in general. Corey and I have learned to not take life for granted and to not judge people- you truly never know what someone is going through. We have had our faith resolidified and our hearts are stronger. I have a newfound awe and love for my three boys. And it will never cease.

Now, onto our little superman! He's doing beautifully and although we have yet to establish a schedule, routine or sleep through the night, we are so incredibly blessed. Cooper has settled into Garner life and Drew is loving his baby brother and doing so well. Drew helps cover him with a blanket and gives him a pacifier. Corey and I are little by little feeling "normal" again :)

Coop is smiling and entertaining us all of the time. He is not as fussy (knock on wood), and seems to love just being with the family. He's quite the snuggle bunny and loves to lay on your chest. He is such a sweet baby.

Wow- a month. Thank you to all who have prayed for our sweet Cooper. And thank you, God! Your work never ends and we are so grateful!
Love,
The Garners

Two boys... One happy, one screaming...

2010-10-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

Check out the little human tomatoes face :)

What a sight! Took out the joovy tandem for a quick spin. Cooper did NOT love it! Drew was a good sport, but we think it's hard on him when Coop cries. I'm sure eventually it will be easier for him. Just had to post this picture!
Love from the Garners

Super Cooper is three weeks old!

2010-10-20T05:18:00.001-07:00

Well actually yesterday he was 3 weeks old... Just late posting this :)
Lots of dr appts following his NICU stay, so we are hectic and busy each day. I'm enjoying having Mommy/Cooper time during the day. I can't believe he has been home for a week and a half. Although we still don't have a schedule, we sleep intermittently, he doesn't go more than a 2.5 hr stretch without waking up to feed, and we are still being thrown up on and having feeding issues... We couldn't be happier to have our sweet second son home with us. It will be nice when we are finally on a schedule and get some sleep, but we will try to be patient (haha) until that time comes.
Love from the Garner four!

The three loves of my life

2010-10-17T13:40:00.000-07:00

Alright, I still have hormones a flowing, so I'll try not to be too sappy....

Super Cooper has been home with us for a week. It feels so good to have him home, but scary too. I know, he is a "normal baby" the NICU people said when they released us... But it feels like he is more delicate and fragile. All of the confidence I had with raising a baby (since it wasn't my first time) went right out the window. I feel terrified and nervous that I won't know the right thing. It must come from having him rushed out of the room before I even got to see him. The trauma of his birth still haunts me. I think it makes me feel like since I didn't get to be there for him since his birth that first night due to the NICU and the machines that I'm somehow I'll equipped this time. I hope it passes soon. I love both of my sons so much that there aren't words. I just want them to have the best life possible.

Corey is the most amazing husband and father. He literally takes my breath away at how much love he has for the boys and I. He has helped me with so much, and I know I am the luckiest woman alive. I treasured those days when we would be together all day, coming and going from the NICU when he wasn't working. He is my best friend and the most gentle soul in the world. I am better because of him. So are our sons. He takes shifts with me of about 3-4 hrs a night with Cooper so we can both sleep. He always lets me sleep first and I am so grateful. He is just so amazing and I could not have ever dreamed of a better husband for myself or father to our children.

Too sappy? This from a mom who almost lost her second son about 19 days ago and whose world has been turned upside down. I've known extreme pain from fourth degree tears and the heartbreak of leaving one son to visit the other in the hospital. But, if that means that I get my three amazing boys, I would go through all of it again. In a heartbeat. I love you, Corey, Drew and Cooper. With all of my heart.

Super Cooper is home!

2010-10-10T13:22:00.001-07:00

As I sit here rocking my sleeping newborn son, I am overwhelmed with joy that I have him home with us.
Friday late afternoon we were allowed to leave the NICU! Super Cooper was free to come home. All three of my boys together. Thank you, God! That's all I've wanted since Cooper became our son and we knew he would make it. Ten long days in the NICU with my heart breaking is now a past but albeit painful memory.

Drew is so in love with his baby brother. We think Cooper is equally in love with him as he tracks his big brother with his eyes and gazes at him. I cannot tell you how amazing it is to see Drew smiling at him. We are very blessed to have both of our sons.

Thank you all for the many prayers, love and support. Super Cooper and we love you and thank you!

A special thank you to our families, Auntie Heather, our NICU angels, Deanna Brown, my awesome co workers at school, and the many unknown people who are praying for us and have yet to meet us. We can't wait to see everyone in two weeks when Super Cooper can be out and seen, this two week quarantine from germs is tough.

Love,
Finally all together, The Garner Four

Super Cooper and miracles at work

2010-10-06T15:51:00.001-07:00

Thanks to all who continue to pray for our little miracle. As you can see, the prayers are working! Our little superman is doing so well that he was taken off his nasal cannula and oxygen today. He has responded well so far. If he needs it again, of course they will put it back. This picture was simply incredible and too good not to share!

Corey and I cannot begin to express how touched we are at the prayers from so many people all over. Your prayers are being heard, as are ours. Each day God gives us another absolute miracle in our sweet son. Although it's hard to leave Drew and Cooper for each other, we are trying to find a balance. Luckily Grammy has been here and is taking care of all of us. Its so wonderful to have caring family who will put aside their lives to help with yours. Even family out of own have come to help out. Amazing!

To everyone: please continue to keep praying for Super Cooper. He needs them more than we even realize! Thank you and we love you.

I nursed Super Cooper last night!

2010-10-04T03:42:00.001-07:00

Grammy watched Drew so we could go to our little superman's 8:00 feeding. I expressed my desire to try and nurse our sweet baby and the drs agreed to let us try! He was an amazing nurser and we were in Heaven. We also had about 30 min of skin on skin bonding time- amazing! During the last part of te nursing, Super Cooper opened those tiny beautiful blue eyes and gazed at me. Words can't describe what I felt. God is so good- he made it happen! Corey and I talked with him, kissed him and enjoyed that time so much. It was hard to leave him, but he needed his rest. Keep up the prayers for Super Cooper- they are working miracles!

Update!

2010-10-03T16:30:00.000-07:00

> Just wanted to update everyone on Drews baby brothers progress. Super Cooper, as we have nicknamed him, is really responding well to all of the prayers and love! His chest tubes are out, he is off the ventilator, we have even been allowed to hold him an begin feeding him my pumped milk through bottles. Although he sometimes has setbacks in the NICU, we are being optimistic in looking for a speedy recovery. We have truly fallen in love with him and are starting to bond, as we were barely allowed to touch his sweet body on the day he was born and the two days following.
>
>
> Please continue to keep us all in your prayers. Super Cooper needs them so much, as does Drew in the fact that he is having to share time with us as we travel back and forth to the NICU. We are trying to have a normal as possible Sunday with him, and we saw Cooper this morning and will go again tonight.
>
>
> I am slowly healing, but it is difficult. My OB said that my fourth degree tears and blood loss were equivalent to a major abdominal surgery. I am adjusting to pain medication and not allowed to drive. That is all new to me, as Drews birth was very peaceful and did not have this type of recovery.

Regardless, we could not be more thrilled for our sweet family. Keep up the prayers everyone!!

XO the Garners
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Sad news- please pray for Cooper

2010-09-28T20:53:00.000-07:00

Cooper Reid Garner was born at 6:30 pm tonight weighing 9 albs 15 oz.. Emergency delivery with nicu teams and 20 specialists... Coopers shoulder was stuck and he lost oxygen and heartrate along with brain activity... He is in the nicu and we are begging for prayers. We just got to see him and they have him sedated to see I'd they can get brain activity. Please excuse my spellings as you can imagine we are trying to stay strong and not break down. Please give Drew extra love as he does not understand what had happened.
Please pray that our son makes if.

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Last Saturday as an only child

2010-09-25T05:52:00.001-07:00

I can't believe it's here... Feels so sad and happy at the same time. Corey had to run into work for a few hours, so it's just D and I. Heard him waking up around 7:30, so he got into our bed and we had some juice and watched cartoons before he told me he wanted "a cheese and egg biscuit"... He is his fathers child :)
Luckily, Corey had to come switch out the cars to get a new battery in my Pilot so he brought us breakfast. Wish he could've stayed a bit more, but tons of things to do before Tuesday! TMI ahead.... Last night my mucus plug came out. Could mean nothing, could possibly start labor. We will see! Feeling a bit crampy, but since we lost our plug with Drew and nothing happened, I'm assuming the same will hold true with Cooper. I hope so, we really love and trust Dr Wiist and want him to deliver Coop on our scheduled day- Tuesday.

Anyway, going to continue to enjoy this last weekend! Next weekend will be quite different :)

On tap for today: install carseat bases and get stuff ready for Monday at school and D for preschool. On for tonight: one last date night while Grammy watches Drew. Gotta love Grammies!

Love,
The Garners

We are being induced on Tuesday!

2010-09-22T14:21:00.001-07:00

Cooper is going to be here this time next week!! We can't wait! We are so lucky to have such an amazing OB and we got his only day on call for our induction. Thank the lord! No major changes, but we did the membranes stripping and maybe it will help get things ready!

Love,

The Garners

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A detour...

2010-09-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

So here I am, in a hospital bed! No, not in labor (we don't think)... We were rear ended on the way to our weekly OB check. Thank our lord that Drew wasn't in the car with us. The woman who hit us ruined her car but our Pilot was barely scratched. This is the second time we have been rear ended in this pregnancy, so we immediately freaked out. The poor police officer was afraid I was going to have the baby that I actually felt sorry for him- he was a new rookie who looked terrified of me and kept asking did I need an ambulance. Luckily we weren't hurt except for a bit of soreness from impact, but Dr Wiist wanted us to be monitored at the hospital in case something started. God bless Dr Wiist, he was so sweet and patient with us as I started sobbing when he told me we needed to go to the hospital. He held my hand and assured me that it would be okay. He is so patient and kind... I love our doctor!

We had an NST to make sure Cooper was okay. He seems great! Praise the Lord! Very active and going to town. During the NST I guess I started contracting. I haven't felt anything more than just a cramp, but they were surprised that I didn't feel anything. That's when we came here- to the hospital.

Four hours of monitoring. I'm not good at waiting and four hours is torture to me. Thank goodness Drew is with his beloved Auntie Heather while we are here, so I am not worrying about him at all.

So here is to hoping we can go home around 10:00... Can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm just not ready for baby Cooper yet. I want one more weekend with just Drew and Corey to make those memories of his only childhood last weekend :) Of course, we want Cooper to arrive safe and happy in this world, no matter when!

Nothing like a little hospital visit to make you think about things...

Love,
The Garners

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Two weeks left!

2010-09-12T16:30:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that Coopers due date is two weeks from today. Can't quite comprehend how it went by this fast, and at the same time it has been such a slow, nerve-wracking pregnancy with lots of early complications. Every complication has cleared up, thank you God! I know Cooper will be fine, and that he will get here safely with the help of our wonderful Dr.

I'm hoping that we can continue to give Drew all of our time and attention until the "big day". We have been doing every fun thing we can think of. I'm physically exhausted and mentally prepping myself for two little boys... Not an easy task with teaching all day long! But with the help of Corey not coaching this season it has been much more bearable. Thank goodness for a hiatus from the soccer world! I know he will return to coaching next year, but the break really has been nice.

So nervous, excited and in amazement all at once! Friday we will have a checkup and see if we can schedule little Coop's induction. Fingers crossed!!

Love,
The Garners

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Preschool!!

2010-09-09T17:49:00.001-07:00

Drew's first day of preschool couldn't have gone better! He was so excited all morning and in the car especially- when he saw the church, he lit up!
He completely surprised Corey and I by running (literally) into the church, and saying goodbye to us with a kiss and no crying. I was a mess, but he was perfect! Couldn't be happier that our boy was so grown up. What a blessing!

Busy weekend

2010-09-05T08:04:00.001-07:00

This weekend has been a lot of things! Recovering and resting from a nasty sinus infection for me, lots of "nesting" for my amazing husband, and Drew has been testing his boundaries with talking back.

This morning I was finally not feeling like death, so D and I enjoyed some coffee, juice and painting in the backyard to give daddy a few minutes to himself. It was about 60 degrees out and just wonderful.

We are trying to get Drew ready for the "seated" activities at preschool... Our little wiggleworm is always so active. We have been practicing coloring, drawing, using stickers and our favorite... Painting!! We can't decide if Drew will be a Picasso or a Polluck... Time will tell.

As I watched my sweet baby Drew (I will have to start saying sweet big boy Drew soon) paint and chatter away, I am so thankful that we were able to have him as our first son. He is the epitome of the first child (just like me), bossy and full of life, but fun and finding joy in life. Cooper will be so lucky to have Drew help him grow up.

Three weeks to the day is little brother Coopers due date, and we can't wait to see our two boys together. Although at times I have guilt about Drew not being an only child, I try to focus on the fact that our boys will always have each other- even when Corey and I aren't around one day. Of course, we are going to live to one hundred so they won't have to worry :)

Beautiful Sunday!

Drews socks

2010-08-30T16:08:00.001-07:00

So our little man decided to pull his socks all the way up... He looks like an old PE coach I had in the 1990's! Just a fun picture that I thought I'd share :)

Baby Cooper is now head down!!!

2010-08-27T17:08:00.001-07:00

Great news at our dr appt! Cooper has turned to head down! We were so thrilled and relieved when our dr told us this news. We honestly couldn't tell, but with the pains I've been having... It was him, turning! Thank goodness. I asked about the possibility of him flipping to breech again, but she said it doesn't usually happen. Let's keep our fingers crossed.
After moving tons during the exam, she told us what a big baby he was. No kidding! She was surprised at how large he was and how strong his movements were.
We were also told that we could induce at the 39th week if he stays good and head down... Yay!
All around good news today. Thank the Lord!

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My little dinner date

2010-08-22T07:30:00.001-07:00

Saturday night D and I had a mommy/son night. Corey was at his fantasy football league and Drew and I had some time for just the two of us. Today marks 35 days or five weeks to the day of Coopers due date- so I want to make sure my sweet little man has some alone time with me before he is sharing Mommy (and Daddy) with his baby brother.
We had breakfast at the diner and did a little shopping at Target. He wore me out, but it was fun. I can't believe he was in my belly four years ago at this time!

How do you stop worrying?

2010-08-18T15:44:00.000-07:00

So... How do you? It seems that from the beginning of our pregnancy all I have done was worry. After our miscarriage and getting pregnant again so soon, I was afraid we would loose him. After we saw his beautiful little heartbeat multiple times, we found out we had a complete placenta previa. I was put on mild rest, no exercise, no anything strenuous, limit stairs, etc. Worried until week 28 when the placenta moved up to low lying. Still a worry, we didn't want a c section, but he was head down, which was a good sign. At our 33 week scan, Cooper was already 5 lbs 3 oz and BREECH. Now another worry. My little man had gone head up. Now I'm worrying until next Friday, when hopefully the dr can tell me if he has moved back to head down. I can't sleep or stop thinking about if he doesn't move, I will have to have a major surgery.

I'm scared beyond recognition and it keeps me up at night. I've googled until I can't google anymore, tried all the exercises that I've seen, prayed endlessly, etc. I just can't stop worrying and I have to soon... This stress is so not good for me or Baby Cooper. I have to find a way to stop worrying... The question is how???

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Getting ready

2010-08-15T11:04:00.001-07:00

So one day we were thinking about how Drew would feel if Cooper was the only one in the stroller... And we found this cool tandem stroller! Normally, the only time D is in a stroller is an airport or mall (hardly ever), but we figured it might change when he sees his baby brother getting chauffered around :)
He can sit or stand on this one while Coop is in his carseat base or just in the stroller (can use it from infancy). We put it together and he loves it!
Just didn't want to leave our sweet little firstborn baby out!

Baby Cooper update

2010-08-11T16:30:00.001-07:00

Baby Cooper is already 5 lbs 3 oz today- as shown on ultrasound! How is he this big?!?! Head full of hair and huge feet, but our little man is breech. Come on and turn upside down, little man! Six more weeks to go with this big baby. Hope I can do it!
Good news-the placenta is great! Completely moved. Let's just hope little man moves head down!

The sweet sounds of change (and second grade)....

2010-08-10T19:06:00.000-07:00

Well, the Lord must have known that I was in need of a change after a rough year last year. With our miscarriage, lots of work stress and everything else, I was highly due for a change that I didn't even see coming. In January, change! Found out we were pregnant very quickly after losing the baby. Wow! Amazing and wonderful. In January, we decided to put our house on the market- big change. Lots of house prep that we did very quickly. On St. Patrick's Day, my bosses asked me to a meeting in which they requested a "favor" of me... move to second grade! After the shock wore off (about twenty minutes), I gladly accepted and really got excited about it. Big change! That is alot of change that I had no idea was in store for us. Obviously, we are awaiting the birth of baby Cooper in the next few weeks, our house didn't sell, and I'm now teaching second grade!

I can't tell you what an enormous, wonderful, awesome change this has been. I know it's only day two, but the kids are so sweet, funny, lighthearted and fun to be around. The curriculum is a challenge for me, because I'm used to fifth grade. I didn't realize that I had to read them directions, or that they didn't know what month numbers correlated to months (ex- August 8th, 2010 is written as 8-10-10)... I just assumed they knew that stuff. Oops! Lots to learn on my part, and glad my lesson plans are in pencil (for now). It's just amazing learning with them and enjoying the low-key pace of second grade. I miss my "big kids" when I see them walk down the hall, and my old colleagues, but I look at the faces in front of me and my new wonderful team of teachers, and I feel glad. This is where I'm supposed to be. It feels so nice to be happy, not stressed, relaxed even at the end of the day teaching. I love the hugs I get from the kids and the smiles, jokes, fun questions and kiddie language they use. I'm still getting used to them interrupting every thing I say, getting poked in the arm about 100 times, hearning "Mrs. Garner, Mrs. Garner, Mrs. Garner" until I can turn to them, their obsession with all things pencil sharpener related... stuff like that. But I love it. I'm so blessed to work with the team of teachers I have. They don't mind my dumb questions that I seem to ask and wonder about. The best sound of second grade... laughter and love. Hearing the giggles and hearing "I love you, Mrs. Garner", or "I love school this year" makes my ears smile.

God must have known (before I even did) that I needed a change. Little did I know how much I was going to be given! How wonderful, new and different. I can't wait to see what else he has in store for me and Corey and Drew!

AD Photography Maternity Shoot!!

2010-08-07T06:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much to the amazing Christerson family for having such an amazing photography company! And thanks to Sabrina Vaccaro who gave me the idea for these shots through her own session with the Christersons. Amazing and it brings tears to my eyes!
To see all of the photos or if anyone wants to order them

Go to www.adfotos.net

Click Flash

Click open menu

Click Clients

Password: laurel

There are still many more to come, but I'm taking a short break to rest! Hopefully later this weekend I will work on some more. Enjoy!

We may have created a monster...

2010-08-03T07:01:00.001-07:00

So we have used cars as a potty training reward. Each time he poops in the potty, he gets a new car. Well- we haven't had an accident in almost two weeks and we have probably bought 25 cars! This video I just had to share- he was so excited about showing Daddy his new car for his "job" this morning- I emailed it to him. Enjoy :)

Coopers Nursery is finished!!

2010-08-02T06:26:00.000-07:00

Yay!!! I can't tell you (unless you are a parent) how good it feels to have the nursery finally completed. With less than eight weeks until our little one (okay, 7 weeks and 5 days) arrives, I was starting to get worried that it wouldn't get done. But it is!! My sweet, hardworking husband worked all weekend to complete the many "tasks"... only thing left is to re-edge the windows, closets and door frames... so excuse any blue painters tape you may see!

One of the best parts about completing the nursery is how excited Drew was to help. He kept dancing around singing "I'm so excited for baby Cooper", and running around the room and under the crib. It was so sweet. He wanted to play with his boppy and blankets, everything was exciting to him. We just can't wait to get Cooper here so we can enjoy loving on him!

Nursery progress

2010-07-31T14:27:00.001-07:00

Well, we got plenty accomplished today! Letters are hung, glider-ottoman are in place, clothes are hanging in the closet... Just need to go to Ikea (yay!) tomorrow to get a new dresser. Drew has loved getting Coopers room together and has been very excited each time he goes into the room. He's such a great big brother already!
Love,
The Garners

Still measuring two weeks ahead...

2010-07-29T11:10:00.001-07:00

We had a great dr appt today! Still 31.5 weeks, but measuring 33.5 weeks :) Dr said that it won't change my due date yet, but we will have another ultrasound in two weeks to get Coops estimated weight and to check the placenta placement. Cooper could easily be eight plus pounds... Yikes!
Anyway, apparently my newfound addiction to corn dogs and blizzards hasn't been too bad for my "figure", because we only gained .5 lb in three weeks. Guess I can still indulge :)
Looking forward to our next ultrasound of my little chunk bug on August 11th. We should be able to calculate an estimated fetal weight!

Sneak peek at our maternity shoot!

2010-07-28T16:23:00.001-07:00

So a friend from work had the most amazing maternity photos taken before their baby girl arrived and we were lucky enough to get a shoot with their friends company- A.D. Photography! Lindsay and James are amazing people and photographers- plus, their little baby girl is due one day after Coopers due date! They were wonderfully patient with Crazy Drew, so we know they will do a great job parenting :)
Can't wait to see the rest of the shots in a couple of weeks!
Thanks Sabrina for the fabulous recommendation!

Setting up my classroom

2010-07-26T12:23:00.001-07:00

Drew went with me to school this morning to "help"... Hahaha. He had a great time playing with Sophia and running around like crazy. He even took a nap- hooray! Got some stuff done, but the best part was watching my little man interact with other kids and see him in the room that I'm going to teach kids just a few years older than him. I think I'm going to start praying for his preschool teachers now!

A busy weekend!

2010-07-26T05:42:00.000-07:00

Warning- some potty training TMI included :)

Drew has now successfully pooped in the potty for three days in a row with no accidents!! And, he went twice on the potty on his own yesterday! We are trying not to ask him constantly if he has to go potty, he will go to pee whenever he needs to, all on his own. We have been reading his physical cues, and are almost certain when he has to poo. We decided to not stay in the bathroom with him anymore, and just tell him that he can yell for us (which he loves to do) when he poops. He loves this! He gets a new toy car, and he loves going to Target or Publix (or Kroger if I can get him to go- way cheaper there) to get one the next day. He even says now "I pooped in the potty". "I'm potty trained". I really hope it stays this way- we were so so proud of him all weekend and he called his grandparents to tell them. We made a BIG deal out of it. Rightly so, bc my sore sciatic nerve needed some respite from bending over to clean up an "accident" :)

We had an amazing maternity shoot on Saturday. AD Photography was recommended to us by a friend from school. Her maternity pictures were beautiful and I wanted ones just like them, and also ones incorporating Drew. He was pretty excited to be the center of attention for four adults and a little crazy, but overall very good. We had a great time with Lindsey and James and can't wait to use them for Cooper's newborn photos. Yay! We were pretty much wiped out after the hours following the shoot.

Although D hasn't napped in over a week, he really has been amazing this weekend- Friday included. I think he really needed to get back to normal by having just Corey and I. My family had been in town all week and it was just nonstop and crazy. It was too much for him, plus Nanny was on vacation and he didn't have his normal routine. We are so glad to get back to it- tomorrow is a Nanny/practice for Preschool day. I know he will do great.

The nursery is painted- yay!!! My sweet hubby decided to do it yesterday. It looks amazing, and next weekend we will get all of the furniture in it. I can't wait until Friday night when we are going to do it all- but I haven't told Corey yet thats the plan :)

Needless to say, he did a great job! The color "cascade blue" matches the rocket ships on Cooper's bedding. Yay!

A happy camper...

2010-07-23T11:03:00.001-07:00

So it seems Drew is back to normal. It's been a rough week! After having family in town and staying at our house the whole week, no regular schedule, vacations and activities and baby prep... our little boy was not happy. He didn't nap at all, was very grumpy and seemed almost hyped up in the evenings. Today I let him sleep until 10:15- I was worried that he might be sick, but he wasn't. I guess he needed to catch up on a weeks worth of missed naps and not having much relaxing time. He has been very sweet and happy to see me. He gave me a big hug when I went into his room and said, "It's just me and you, Mommy". My heart melted. Maybe he just had too many people in the house and too many people always around. It's been like this all summer. We just need to slow down and enjoy time with just the three of us while it is just the three of us. He has been wonderful all morning and we are just relaxing now. We haven't mentioned the words "baby" or "Cooper" at all today... want to see if maybe it's too much baby stuff that's got him so discombobulated (not sure how it's spelled), but it's a possibility. Regardless, I'm happy to have my sweet boy back!!

30.5 weeks (well, 32.5 according to what big baby Coop is measuring)

2010-07-21T12:14:00.000-07:00

My sweet husband had to say no to a business trip in August due to Coop's impending birth. His boss called to ask him why and he emailed him this picture! I guess it said it all, because his boss said he completely understood! Can't wait to see what we are measuring at our next appt- a week from tomorrow. How big is lil Coop going to be?
Love,
The Garner's

Getting things done... piece by piece

2010-07-18T11:51:00.000-07:00

So this weekend we decided to clean, disenfect and "air out" the bassinet, pack n play and changing table to get Cooper's nursery ready. The room itself won't be complete until the last weekend of July- but at least we are doing some at a time.

This is the sweet bassinet we bought at Kid to Kid a few weeks ago. We didn't have one with Drew, and we used the pack n play in our room. This time, we knew we wanted a smaller bassinet for our room (for his first few weeks) and we would put the pack n play downstairs so we could have space for him to sleep, change diapers (without having to go upstairs each time), etc. Love this little bassinet! It has the swinging bears, lights, music, nature sounds, etc. It is wonderful. Drew would have loved it.

This was Drew's old pack n play. It was wonderful and we can't wait to use it downstairs in the living room for Cooper. Some good friends of ours borrowed it for their little girl last year, and we spent yesterday cleaning it, Lysoling it (we are such germaphobes) and letting the sun air it out. Lots of sweet memories from this baby gear.

Last but certainly not least, the changing table is assembled again. We took it out in March, when Drew was potty trained...still has a few accidents with "poo" now and again, but for the most part, it wasn't too bad. Plus, he got his big boy bed set in April. Anyway... we still have to organize it and it won't be in that spot in the nursery, but it's good to have it up and ready. This time we definitely WON'T be putting his baby bath on the changing table... we'll just put it in the sink in the bathroom. Why didn't we think of that when D was born??? Oh well.

Drew seems to have a good time when we bring out his "old" baby things. We also let him pick out some new things for Cooper and he loves that. He has expensive taste, so sometimes it has to go back on the shelf, but for the most part, he is a great shopper.

Here is the link for the Carters Bumble collection that we ordered the baby bouncer and swing from

http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=4131801

We had given our old bouncer and swing away to single moms who needed equipment, so we had to get new ones this time. They are adorable! Most importantly, they matched- which I insisted on!!

Drew is on his way downstairs, so it's off to spend a little quality time with my two favorite boys.

Love, The Garner's

A fun week

2010-07-17T06:01:00.000-07:00

It's been quite a week in Garnerland! Drew has "practiced" for preschool twice this week, he went to a 2nd grade teachers pool party with me, and he has rediscovered his love of trains!

This picture was taken yesterday after we rested from the pool party. We decided to take out our "Toy Story 3" toys and play with them. He just looks so BIG in this picture- it made me snap it up to see it in print. Can't believe he is three and a half already!

Took this one about five minutes ago. After a nice breakfast at the table, Drew and I settled for some Thomas Train on tv with our coffee and toys. I can't believe we only have two more weekends like this before work starts back. And, only a few more weekends until little brother Cooper comes and our relaxing weekends are gone :)

Enjoy this weekend! Love, the Garner Family

Preparing for Preschool... my big boy!

2010-07-13T05:56:00.000-07:00

So today I packed Drew's lunchbox for the very first time. His sweet little tin Toy Story lunchbox that he picked out on vacation. It was very emotional for me. I was so happy that he was going to have something just for him, before Cooper comes. I was also excited that he was going to get into such a wonderful program with great people and make new friends. Of course, with all of that excitement for him, I was also struck with the realization that he is growing up. This is the first of many "big boy" things that my little three and a half year old is just starting to do. Nanny, Drew's babysitter, thought it would be a good idea to get him used to bringing a lunch box, opening it, getting his food out, etc. The backpack will come into play too- I've ordered it from LL Bean... a cute, jr backpack with orange and blue sharks and "Drew" monogrammed on it. I know, I'm a dork, but I want him to love it. Here's a picture of the nutritious lunch I packed little man... with a note that I know he can't read, but Nanny will read it to him.

We have mastered the art of Drew putting his own shoes, socks, clothes on to almost perfection :) Took a few snapshots of him getting "ready".

Maybe we made it a little to real life, because he said, "Can I take my space alien to preschool, Mommy'? Oh I almost died! We explained again that this was practice and that it would start in September, but that he could use his big boy lunchbox when he goes to Nannie's twice a week this summer. He seemed happy with it and went off with Daddy. My little boy is growing up. As I sit here with my Dunkin Donuts decaf, I'm aware of the things that are coming. Cooper really likes this coffee and is grooving around, and I'm thinking about my big boy enjoying a day at his babysitters. I doubt there will be much calm down time like I'm having today, but I know that life with two little boys will be wonderful. Feeling very grateful today for my wonderful little family of (almost) four!

Three Weeks Left of Summer Vacation!

2010-07-12T05:33:00.000-07:00

As I was reminded yesterday, we only have three weeks left of vacation! How in the world has summer gone by that fast??? It seems like yesterday that May was ending and school was over. Drew and I had endless summer days ahead of us, days at the park, the pool, playgroups, etc. We had two separate beach trips and lots of time with just the three of us before Cooper arrives. I can't believe it's almost mid July!

Things to get done... finish Cooper's room this month, especially the weekend of the 30th, because work starts back that first week of August! The first two days of that week are furlough days, and I will NOT be going in those days (out of sheer principle, hehe- school reference, but not because of my principal- he is the best). That Wednesday is our first day of pre planning. Yikes! We will have Coopers nursery completed by then. So far we have the changing table pieces out, the crib pieces out, the crib mattress, sleepers and outfits, hats, socks, bibs, etc for NB and 0-3 sizes all washed and sorted. We have pulled out the carseat bases, the carrier, the snap n go stroller base, the baby bjorn, the bassinet and the pack n play. Wow! So glad we saved most of this stuff. Stuff we still need: baby swing, bouncy seat, more diaper genie refills, sweet litle newborn diapers, new bottle nipples (still have Dr. Brown's bottles from Drew), possibly a new "pump"... we'll see how the old one does and if nursing works better this time. Not too much to get!

Back to summer... hopefully Drew and I can strike a mix of fun, relaxation and quality time with our last three weeks together before school starts and Coop gets here! Have a great summer!

Drew's breakfast

2010-07-09T06:00:00.001-07:00

Notice the Toy Story friends that are watching him eat :)

Usually the only breakfast foods I can get D to eat are either waffles, bagels, scrambled eggs and toast or pancakes, fruit too. I'm glad he added a cereal to his list of Drew-approved foods!

Getting Coopers nursery ready!

2010-07-08T06:32:00.000-07:00

Since we will still be having company until the end of July, the guest room won't officially be Coopers nursery until July 30th... but I found some pictures of the bedding Drew helped us pick out for his little brother! It's the Charles DWell collection called "Space". It will go perfectly with the dark blue shade of the room and with Drew's natural colored crib, rocking chair with ottoman, and changing table. The crib in the photos isn't ours, the pics are simply courtesy of the Target website. They are very small for some reason, but enjoy!!

Crib bedding

Sheet set

Blankets

Measuring BIG- looks like Baby Cooper will be here early!

2010-07-06T08:35:00.000-07:00

Baby Cooper! At our appt this morning, I was measuring 30 weeks... but we are only 28 weeks and 2 days- yikes! Hopefully we can get everything done soon for Coopers nursery, the house, etc. I know, I probably should have had all this done before our appt, but with Drew and I having summer off, two vacations, etc... I just didn't quite make it! I feel very overwhelmed now and am trying not to panic about all of the things to do. Move the computer out of the guest room, move the bed out, get the crib, changing table, rocking chair and ottoman, baby bathtub, toys, blankets, etc out of our attic and Auntie Heather's house :) Install the carseat bases, get the stroller out, clean all of the linens, the pack n play, the bassinet, etc. Oh my! Had the GD glucose test done today, hopefully the results will come back showing all is well and that we are set.

I'd better get off this blog and start filling out hospital paperwork and looking at the four lists the dr gave me. I guess it's true, second time Mommies are a litte slower the second time around!

Love, The G (almost) 4

Happy Birthdays

2010-07-04T13:31:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday, America! And happy half birthday to our sweet baby Drew! I've got to stop calling him that and refer to him as sweet big boy Drew so as to not confuse him when baby Cooper arrives :) Anyway- Drew is officially three and a half today! We love you, little man!

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St. Augustine Vacation Shots

2010-07-03T09:06:00.000-07:00

Some of my favorite shots of our vacation. I just love how sweet our little man looks!

I wanted to capture the essence of Drew in these black and whites...

And a color shot of the whole family. We had a great time! I wish we could have had a few more days, but we really enjoyed just being our tiny family of three and spoiling Drew with his last vacation where it would be "all about him". Baby Brother Cooper is due in 12 weeks and we have TONS to do! Still have to purge the guest room, get the crib and changing table out of the attic, set up Cooper's nursery, get all of Drew's old clothes for 0-3 months out and washed, wash all of Cooper's new bedding set, etc. Yikes! And only four more weeks of summer break to do this in. Also... have to start making those long term sub plans for my maternity leave. I have enjoyed the last month immensely, by not doing any of this! Better go get little man some lunch. Love, The Garner's

St Augustine!

2010-06-28T10:41:00.001-07:00

Our last vacation as a family of three is underway! We are settled in our cozy little cottage at Surf Crest Village and enjoying some relaxing time with just the three of us. Okay, Coop counts as four, but we wanted to make this trip for Drew and sort of his last hurrah as an only child :( don't get me wrong, we coudn't be more excited about Coop joining our family in 13 weeks, but we still know it will be hard for our only child little man. He loves the cottage, the beach and soon will love the pool- just haven't made it there yet! We have been to the beach twice and driven around the town, had lunch, dinner on the beach, etc. Drew is napping now, which means I'm resting too. The sun and the hot weather wears this mamma out! Love, The Garners

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2010-06-22T12:39:00.001-07:00

Drews Ear Recheck

He passed all of his hearing tests! The eardrums are closed- which is great. He did a great big boy job and sat in the chair without having to be on one of our laps! Couldn't be more proud of our big boy.

Happy Fathers Day!

2010-06-20T08:21:00.001-07:00

To my wonderful husband of almost (in six days) six years! Drew is so lucky to have you as a dad. Cooper will be just as lucky! I'm thankful and blessed to have you as a husband. I love you so much! To all the dads out there... Enjoy your special day- you deserve it! XO The Garners

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Drewy time

2010-06-17T16:45:00.001-07:00

So as I've been lamenting about Coreys traveling, I have had a nice quiet day to realize that I need to savor this trip- this is quite possibly Drew and I's last "Daddy is out of town, it's just the two of us" time. While little man was at Nannies and Ms Rosa was cleaning, I got out for a bit and cleared my head. Always good for a mamma! Since I'm a summer SAHM (stay at home mom), every year it's a transition for me :) Anyway, I thought about all the times Corey has traveled and Drew and I just get to be alone and have mommy/son time. Since Corey most likely won't be traveling after July (from drs orders in case my placenta previa isn't resolved and I'm on bed rest), I realized quite suddenly that Drew and I probably won't have another five days like this again. My little baby boy that is getting bigger every day is going to have to share me with baby brother Cooper in about 14 weeks. It makes me happy and sad at the same time. I love him so much and I'm counting on loving Cooper just as much, but sweet baby Drew (his nickname for a long time) was (and is for right now) my only little one. As Auntie Heather says "it's like you just spit him out of your mouth"... It's so true. I see so much of myself in him that it's crazy. He mimics everything I say and his mannerisms mirror mine. Although he can certainly drive me nuts and make me crazy, he is my little buddy. I'm so grateful that God gave me him for our firstborn son. Off to enjoy a movie, stories and our awesome bedtime routine with my little man!

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2010-06-16T10:44:00.001-07:00

Back home and now the hubby is traveling...

Ugh! Corey has been traveling so much this past year! I'm thankful that his job is going well, but it's getting harder and harder as I get bigger and Drew grows more and more rambunctious! Corey left today and won't be back until Saturday night. Yikes! Drew has a few playdates, but it's so stinking hot out and I'm getting tired more quickly... Plus, he doesn't seem to get it that I can't slide at the playground and run/jump/dance per drs orders of the placenta previa... Which we hope our July 6th ultrasound shows that it has moved up... Keep praying :)

Anyway, I'm hoping Drew takes it easy on me. He has had a rough time for me since we got home Sunday night. Very bossy and sassy and pooped in his pants twice yesterday-not to mention he seems not to like naps anymore either. Agh!!
Going to focus on the positive now and try to enjoy Drew and I's (hopefully) last week home alone while Daddy travels before Baby Cooper comes. Im aure it will be so different sharing attention... Fifteen weeks!!

The beach house!

2010-06-09T12:39:00.001-07:00

Dad and Pam rented a beautiful, pottery barn-esque townhome right on the beach in Anna Maria Island. Yay!! The photo is of the view from Corey and I's bed- can you believe it?? It's beautiful and the whole place is amazing! Drews favorite part is the elevator that goes up in the three stories of the townhome. He absolutely is in Heaven. I could live here! Love, The Garners

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We made it!

2010-06-08T18:56:00.001-07:00

We are here! It's hot and humid but wonderful. We got up early and headed to the airport. Drew was great and really enjoyed the plane rode. It is his tenth flight after all- he is pretty used to it! We had a nice flight and were able to relax some while Drew watched a movie and played on my old iPhone- aka his "blue phone". We spent the afternoon swimming and playing at Grampy P and Grammys. Drewy fell asleep when we arrived at Eds Tavern for dinner, so he slept in the stroller. It was nice and quiet for him and we had a great time chatting and catching up. He woke up on the way home and we got him chick fil a. He perked right up and we went home and played. Grammy sure spoiled him with tons of toys and presents. After a nice, big bubble bath and playing, we settled down to watch toy story with Grampy P. We are all quite tired now- especially since baby Coop started kicking me and sumersalting at 5:30 :) Off to the beachouse for a few days of sun, fun, sand and relaxation. Corey and I are going to have a date night one of the nights as well :) can't wait!! Love, The Garners

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Feeling much better!

2010-06-07T05:57:00.001-07:00

Praise the Lord! Out little man hasn't thrown up since yesterday am!! He had had his appetite back and is like his old self. He slept from 9:30-7:30, and woke us up by walking into our room and smiling at us. We must have been so exhausted that we didn't pay attention to the monitor. This morning he has been playful and hungry.. He's already eaten a blueberry waffle. We are going to get ready for our trip today. Run errands, pack and get out for a bit. Can't wait to get to the beach and see Grampy P and Grammy, possibly the McCreadys and the Ancils. Thanks for all of the thoughts and prayers. Love, The Garners

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2010-06-06T06:18:00.001-07:00

Still sick...
We are just baffled by this bug that Drew has. He slept for 11.5 hrs last night with no throwing up. As soon as he woke up and had two sips of water... He threw up. Not sure why- he had no food in his system!! We tried giving him some juice since we thought he might like something other than water and pedialtye. We also gave him some bites of blueberry waffle- minus syrup. He had a little diahrrea but hasn't thrown up yet- knock wood!! We also gave him a few bites of applesauce about 15 min ago and replaced his juice with Gatorade. Let's see if he can hold it down. Every time he starts moving around, he gets sick. Sigh.
Not sure what this will mean for our travel plans. If we have to delay the trip, then we will. Drew is more important than any tickets or beachouse. Enough said!!
Please continue to pray for Drew and Corey and I, as we are embarking on day four of this lovely bug. Luckily, Corey and I (as well as baby Coop) have been spared so far. Hallelujia!!

2010-06-04T16:00:00.001-07:00

Sickness and a three year old and a pregnant mommy...

Yikes! In the past two days I have cleaned up more diarrea and throw up than I ever have!! Poor Drew has some nasty virus. We saw the dr today after being up half the night with Drew and endless cleanup of laundry and throw up clothes. We were prescribed Zofran, an anti nausea pill and it has helped. We hope it does tonight as well. He hasn't had a fever during this, but he is just pitiful when sick. Plus, Corey has been in and out for work... I'm exhausted! Thank goodness Auntie Heather also helped me on the phone... No need to expose her to the "bug".
I'm worried that Corey and I might get it... And of course that would mean even more dangerous while I'm pregnant with baby Cooper. We are praying hard that he will be spared.
Well, off for more pedialtye for the patient... And hopefully no more throw up!
Love, The Garners

2010-06-03T14:28:00.001-07:00

Drew went with us today to our 24 week appt. We met Dr. Johnston (who is wonderful) who we will rotate with while Dr Wiist is completing his mission trip in Guatemala this summer... He will be back in August- no worries!! Cooper is great and we heard his heartbeat again. We will have an ultraound on July 6th to see if my placenta has moved up (prayers please) and to do my glucose tolerance test-yuck!!
Anyway, he went with us because last night he had apparently gotten sick in his sleep and had a little bit of diahrreah. The runs have continued some today, but hopefully not anymore. Little man has been even bossier :) and more clingy, so we know he is not himself. We are seeing if he will nap now while I rest. Dr. Johnston did reiterate the importance of my resting until we see of the placenta has moved.
Hopeully! Love, The Garners

Drews ears and the ENT visit

2010-06-01T18:08:00.001-07:00

We had a post op check on little mans ears today from the tube removal surgery... Good news is that the eardrum healed nicely and is closed. Bad news is that there is some fluid in Drews ears and they want to monitor it when we return. He couldn't do his hearing test because of the fluid. Hopefully this won't hurt his eardrums on our flight to Florida next week :( Say a little prayer for our little man that the fluid dries up please! Love, The Garners

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Drews blue dump truck for pooping on the potty

2010-05-30T06:45:00.001-07:00

No pictures of poop, but there is a quick discussion... Just a warning!

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Drews Video Message

2010-05-30T06:38:00.000-07:00

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Drews tie dye

2010-05-28T08:55:00.001-07:00

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Video of Coop kicking!

2010-05-25T13:51:00.001-07:00

Watch the third blue spot (2nd one from the right)... It's Cooper
moving around and kicking! Ignore the background noise- Drew and I
were watching Toy Story.

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A little Video Hello...

2010-05-23T12:17:00.000-07:00

Drew decided he wanted to say "hi" to Grampy P and Grammy. He is so excited about vacation in two weeks, and so are we! Heading to Anna Maria Island soon to stay in a beautiful new townhome on the beach! After that, staying with Grampy P and Grammy for a few nights in Bradenton. Just what we needed after a very long school year and a stressful pregnancy.

Baby Cooper continues to grow in my belly each day. We have another little nocturnal soccer player on our hands. It amazes me that this tiny baby can already be so much like his older brother. When I'm moving around and busy (which I'm not supposed to be much nowadays- dr orders) he is quiet and content. When I sit down or rest, he starts kicking and partying. He's a fan of the Blackeyed Peas as well :) Anyway, trying not to dwell on the placenta previa and keep thinking and praying that it's moving up on its own.

One week left of work- YAY!! Three days with the kids and two days of meetings (staff development). I can do it! After that, off for the whole summer as it's Drewy and I's last summer just the two of us. We are sad for that, but excited to have baby Coop here next summer.

Adios for now!

Playtime

2010-05-21T09:31:00.001-07:00

Coreys Dad and nephew came for a visit from Arkansas. The boys had a blast and I know Corey was thrilled to see his Dad. Good times!

Sent from my iPhone

2010-05-17T06:16:00.001-07:00

Thanks for all of the support! We love you all!

Baby Love (again!)

2010-05-15T06:56:00.000-07:00

We had our 20 week scan (ultrasound) on Wednesday- Grampy P's Birthday! Looks like little man Coop is doing great. He was even looking at us in this photo, with his arm behind his head, just like big brother Drew. He is healthy and active, already 14 oz-- wow!! Going to be big, just like Drew.

While Cooper is doing beautifully, my health has taken a small step back. After the almost fainting episode on Field Day last week, we thought we were okay for a few days. Dr. Wiist said at our appt that my placenta is covering my cervix. This means I have placenta previa right now... not ideal for a 2nd time Mommy. It means my placenta needs to move up, or I risk bleeding out, or worse, Baby Cooper bleeding out if we fall or have a jarring impact. He did say that sometimes this reverses itself, and he is hoping that it happens. We are scanning again in about seven and a half weeks to see. Meanwhile, I have to stay off my feet more (he does know that I'm a teacher and that we have a VERY energetic three year old), rest more, and no more stairs (when I don't have to), no running or jumping, no yoga, no strenous swimming (but I can float my large belly in the pool) and no sudden impacting movements. Does he not realize that it is summer vacation in two weeks?? I have 26 fifth graders that have more energy than a football team, a graduation celebration for them,and that Drew is like a sweet little tasmanian devil? We have a trip to the beach planned for the first week of June! Have I mentioned that Corey has been traveling more? Ay!! He has been out of town since Thursday morning and won't get back home until around midnight tonight. He's leaving again after we get back from vacation in June for some trip to Montana for a Dude Ranch trip he won from work. Of course, that happens to be the week Nanny Doris is on vacation too, and Auntie Heather has classes. Might be a LOT of movies for us that week.

All in all, we are trying to take this news in stride. Hoping and praying that the placenta will move on it's own. If not, it could mean early bedrest for me and a C-Section that we really, really don't want. I am a scaredy cat and we really wanted another "regular" (meaning filled with lots of good epidurals) birth with this little baby boy.

So we will see. Hope and pray for the best!
Love,
The Garner (almost four)

2010-05-09T08:27:00.001-07:00

Happy Mothers Day!!
Our last Mothers Day as a tiny family of three. We are so excited to have Baby Cooper come in five months!! Mothers Day 2010 started with me sleeping in, a wonderful card from my husband and a sweet card from Drew that had his voice recorded on it. Perfection!! Breakfast at J.Christophers was delicious and we have been organizing my new Mommy Mobile! Corey got me an early MD present- a Honda Pilot! It seats seven and it's beautiful! Drew especially loves it. I'm off to my prenatal massage soon and an afternoon of maternity shopping soon. Happy Mothers Day!

It's a BOY! Drew is going to have a little brother!

2010-04-27T16:39:00.001-07:00

Cooper Reid Garner is due September 26th! Drew is so excited to have a little brother and we are ecstatic!!

Love,
The Garner's

2010-04-27T11:39:00.001-07:00

It's a BOY!!!
Cooper Reid Garner is arriving September 26th!!! He looks perfect and active- just like big brother Drew! We are over the moon!!
Love,
The Garners

Trying out the Flip Video Camera

2010-04-23T14:13:00.000-07:00

Let's see if this works! One of our first videos with the new Flip Video Camera. Drew was playing in the hallway, went into his room and grabbed the painting Auntie Heather did. He loves it!

2010-04-13T19:10:00.001-07:00

Two weeks until we find out our little love bugs gender!

Went in for our sixteen week checkup and all is well with our little one! The bug was moving around lots and had a nice, steady heartrate.
On April 27th we find out if we are expecting another son or a daughter!!

Little Love Bug #2

2010-03-22T13:40:00.001-07:00

Our baby is due September 26th!!! We had an appt to meet our new OB, Dr. Wiist today. He is amazing and we are so thankful that Dr. Kim recommended him. We can't wait to have an incredible delivery with him- he is a big believer in pain meds and early epidurals. Plus, he wants us to be able to induce if we choose, so we can make sure to have him deliver little love bug, and so that we can arrange to have all the grandparents up here for the big day.

We are so excited! Laurel, Corey, Drew and the little love bug

2010-03-08T10:51:00.001-08:00

A new little love bug in September!!
Drew is going to be a big brother!! Our little one should make his/her appearance on September 24th. We have been blessed to see many ultrasounds with heartbeats and we have heard that beautiful sound many times. Today we saw little love bug kicking up a storm... Just like Big Brother Drew at his first soccer practice yesterday!
Love from all four of us.

Happy 2010!

2010-01-01T10:23:00.000-08:00

Wow! What a year this should be! I remember when it was just 2000, and I was turning twenty. Now I'm turning the big THIRTY! Yikes!! Before I have this heck of a birthday, Drew will be turning three on January 4th. I can't believe our little munchkin man is getting so big. We're still working on the potty training... sigh. I can't undertand why or how he enjoys the pullups, but we tried big boy underwear and it did not work. He wouldn't take it off and he peed in it! Regardless, he is a wonderfully happy, energetic, chatty little boy. He would much rather be outside any day, so let's hope for less rain in 2010 :)

Anyway, we hope for happy and healthy 2010 with the pitter patter of little feet. We are still trying again for another little Baby Garner. After losing the baby in October, I think we are ready to start trying again. Drew definately wants a "baby sister", or so he says! We are also looking to begin putting our house on the market. We need a bigger house. Not that we don't love our cozy little townhouse, but its overflowing with "stuff".

Cheers and best wishes to you and yours in 2010!
Love,
The Garners