Lucy and the bunny...

Once upon a time there was a little girl named Lucy. She was perfect in every way. Well, except one...While she had everything she could hope for, love, food, clean diapers, Lucy was missing one thing...a playmate! She longed to have a friend, just her size, to confide in and share secrets and just hang out.

Now since Lucy was very young and was not so wise to the ways of the world, it took her a bit to figure out that all she needed to do was close her eyes tight and make a special wish. So one night as she lay awake in her cradle, the one her mom had slept in all those years ago, Lucy decided to give it a whirl. She closed her eyes and made her wish. She awoke the next morning (well, several times, really) thinking little of the wish she had made the night before and went on with her life as usual. Grandma and Papa were still around for some cuddles and love and she had breakfast as usual at the all you can eat buffet Lucy liked so much (except that they never changed the daily special).

It wasn't until the door bell rang and Papa answered it that Lucy knew her wish had come true. Sure enough, there was her friend, sent specially for Lucy, a soft and cuddly bunny just Lucy's size. Turns out the bunny is one helluva listener and has become a favorite of Lucy's mom as well.

Never underestimate the power of a good wish!

Thanks, Marla for the perfect baby gift!

Lots of love and gratitude...

What I am finding out is words are not enough to express the love and gratitude I feel for my grandparents this very moment. Having them here to see me come into this world and then to have them to cuddle and play with me has been absolutely spectacular. No attachment issues here! You've been gone only a few hours and I miss you already! Can't wait to see you on your way through to St. George next month! Til then I'll have to teach my mom all the wonderful things you taught me. Happy travels on the high seas...I love you both with all my heart, Lucy

What the...?!?

Thought some of you might want a more up to date picture since I am now 6 days old! When I asked them to take my picture, I never thought it would be quite this much of a production. Your guess is as good as mine as to what this might be on my head. To be honest, I think the flowers were Grandma's idea, so I can't complain too much since she also gives me lots and lots of loving. Her and Papa have been a tremendous help getting me adjusted to my new digs. I haven't really gotten onto a schedule, but as I like to say, "Who needs a schedule?" I'm more for just being in the moment.

Going home!

After spending a couple of days in the hospital, it was finally time for me to go home! Grandma dressed me in my finest outfit and we headed to my new digs. The first thing I noticed was there were no other babies at my new home. I had been used to hearing the sounds of other kids my age around, but I don't think I'll miss that action. No one to have to share the attention with this way. So, mom and I are settling in to our new routine of eating , sleeping and pooping. I must admit, I am a much better pooper than my mom which surprises me cuz she's been doing it a whole lot longer than me! Grandma and Papa are hanging around another week. They said it was to help out mom since she's still recovering, but I know it's all about me and it will be hard for them to leave.

I included this picture of Grandma and me even though she won't really like it, but I think we look cute. I also thought you should see a close up of me with my eyes open. My Uncle Ray asked for that one.

Just call her Lucy!

After spending the day in the hospital with my new little girl, I have found several things to be true. First, it is totally possible to love someone you barely know. Second, no matter how scary things got for us last night before the c-section I still had the undying devotion that this child would be healthy and strong and beautiful. (I was correct on all counts.) Next, I have realized bringing a child into the world today is a weird and at times frightening proposition, however, I will never second guess my decision and already relish in the knowledge little Lucy will make this world a better place.

Think this sentimental stuff is coming from a woman with too many hormones coursing through her body on too little sleep? Maybe...but I tend to think it is the first of many profound and insightful thoughts I will have as I grow into this new role as a mother. And if that means I cry more, it also means I will laugh more. If that means I have less time for myself because my daughter requires my attention, so be it! I cannot think of a more deserving person to be getting all my attention and, of course, the attention of all our family and friends who have sent love across the miles and will each have their chance to touch and be touched by my beautiful Lucy!

Happy Birthday!

I have the distinct privilege to announce the arrival of Baby Girl Lollini on January 17th at ~12:30 am(yes, her mother is still marvelling at her beauty and has not yet decided on her name).

True to her performance over the last 9 months, Lauren's baby girl arrived on her own terms with a quick C-section delivery. She and Mommy are both healthy and doing well. Weighing in at 7 lbs 14 oz and 21 inches long, she and her mother are enjoying some quality time together at the hospital for the next few days.

It was quite an honor to be part of this magnificent event and be one of the first along with your grandparents to meet you & welcome you into the world. Thanks for letting me share with you one of many special times in your life.

Love,
Auntie Joan

P.S. Uncle Don & Katya can't wait to meet you... and the pictures we took don't do justice on how beautiful you turned out :)

I'm being evicted!

So today I just found out I am being evicted from my home. My landlady said that we had a lease for 40 weeks and now that I have gone past that I need to find a new place to live! I'm hoping I can find something in the next few days as that is all the time I have before they force me out. And what a shame, I was so getting into this cozy little space. Sure it's small, but it's homey.

The landlady has her say...

Despite what you might think, I am not cold or heartless, just very anxious to meet my new baby. So, yes, the rumors are true, she is being evicted, but for good reason. Certainly, her lease has expired and I am not willing to renew it. But more importantly, if we wait much longer, I am not sure we will ever get her out since she appears to be growing by leaps and bounds. (Does anyone know of a situation where the baby actually got stuck?!?)

So here's the plan should my little one not make her way into the world on her own in the next couple of days...on Wednesday the 16th evening I will go to the hospital where they will help me start the labor process by inserting a tablet of medication. (I can get very graphic here and explain the whole procedure to you but I think less is more.) Once the ball starts rolling, metaphorically of course, we hope the baby will take it the rest of the way. There are other things to help, if needed, but I am not counting on them because once she sees the light, I'm sure she's gonna keep going on her own. But as I have been throughout this journey, I am open and willing and ready for whatever might arise. When all is said and done, I could be holding my beautiful baby girl on Thursday sometime as the initial step in the procedure can take anywhere from 4 -16 hours before I am into active labor.

The people have spoken...

But only one of us has heard you! So many of you have been writing and calling and asking "What's happening? And when is she coming?"

No news on this beautiful Saturday afternoon in Denver...I believe the perfect day for a women to go into labor and deliver her first child. However, my little one has other plans and she has not filled me in on what they may be.

The two of us are still reeling over the fantastic news of our friend Kelly who gave birth on Monday the 7th to a spectacular baby boy, Pierson (who happens to be Trixie's best friend so far, since they pretty much grew up together.) I cringe as I write Pierson was 9 lbs 4 oz but mother and baby are doing well!

So thank you for your kind wishes and we will try to keep this blog as up to date as possible. I have also heard that several of you have had some difficulty in making comments on the blog. Please feel to use my personal e-mail in this case if you are having trouble.

One day past due...

I hope this whole baby thing isn't like the library, cuz we are already one day overdue. What is the fine on overdue babies anyway?

Went to the doctor today to make a game plan. I am no more dialated than I was last week and so far nothing even remotely close to a contraction. He prodded around in there and said things felt good (poked her head) and listened to her heart beat (which is also good.) Our next check up is scheduled for Monday and then we will do a sonogram and see how things look. Just in case this kid truly has a mind of her own and doesn't feel a need to swim downstream anytime soon, we may have to induce. She continues to grow and and hopefully she'll decide for herself there is a big, bright world out there for her to explore.

In the meantime, I continue to be active while my mom and dad are spoiling me with good food, basic chores and great company. I'm soaking it up cuz I know once this baby makes an appearance, I am definitely demoted to the JV squad.

Thank you for all your kind words and thoughts, keep 'em coming!

Love and hugs,
Lauren

Is anyone out there?

I'm not sure anyone is listening but I've got something to say!

So, this morning I'm taking a bit of a nap and minding my own business when all of a sudden I feel something poking the top of my head. I squirmed around a bit and then it happened again. What was that all about anyway? I've been living in here all calm and stuff and then this happens.

Then I started to think, what if there is something outside of this cozy little home? What if there is more to this than just swimming around? What if that poke on the head was a sign for me to explore outside this liquidy haven?


Maybe, I'll think about that a little before I make any big moves. Anyone out there got any advice or words of wisdom for me?

Lauren, cows and other pregnancy stuff...

Hi to you all! It is Lauren standing in and writing for the soon to be newest little Lollini...got this e-mail from a friend in Wayne County, UT and had to pass it along!

Julie sent her well wishes to me on my personal e-mail the other day and I quote:
"You know the snow will cause you to have your baby because of all of the pressure in the air, well that is what happens to the cows. They all seem to have their babies when there is a big snow. Maybe this front is a good thing for you."

Do you think she was comparing me to a cow? I know I've gotten quite large, but, I'm sure! This was a great laugh for me and I am bummed we didn't get any of that front of snow here in Denver or I would be writing something totally different tonight.

One day til the actual due date and I'm still feeling good despite the fact that when I get up from the sitting or lying positions I need a pulley system to hoist me up. Luckily my parents are here in case I truly fall down and can't get up.

Lots of preparing happening around here so hopefully my daughter will sense the excitement and want to get out and see what all the fuss is about. For now we wait...

My Welcome Committee

Something interesting has happened in the last few days. I remember the voices of the people who have come to my house; I've heard them several times before, when I was very little inside my Mom.

There is someone who talks to me and calls me "Bella", and she says her name is Grandma. She seems very happy that I am in her life and is always wondering when she will be able to hold me and kiss me all over. She is Grandma to Nate; my cousin who came to visit me and my Mom on Thanksgiving. Nate is a boy and everyone seems to think I am a girl; so Grandma is excited about having a granddaughter!

Grandma came with someone who seems very nice and gentle. His name is Papa. I hear him doing things in my new room. He paints, decorates, and puts things together for me. Yesterday I heard him while he was putting up a cool fan in my room. He must be very nice because Nate loves him a lot.

Grandma and Papa will be there when I am born; I guess they just can't wait to see me! Grandma says I am beautiful and Papa says I will be his favorite girl in all the world!

I wonder if every new baby has a Grandma and Papa? How did God decide that I would get THIS Grandma and Papa? Maybe because he loves me too!

The countdown begins...

Just under a week away from the due date and things seem to be progressing as they should. The doc says her heart rate is where it should be and we are about 1 cm dialated. Most first time moms do not deliver early, so if you are gambling folks, she most probably won't arrive until after the 9th (but here's hoping...) However, I'm not in control here and if she wants to make her appearance early I won't be standing in her way!

As far as I'm concerned (can't play the "it's all about me card" for much longer), I am feeling good considering the 8 or so lbs of baby I am carrying around. Not that I have much to compare this to, but I'm sure it could be sooooo much worse. As my baby wrote in an earlier posting, we are working on practicing our feeling words. All I can say about how I am feeling is it depends on the minute. Mostly, I am feeling anxious and excited and can't wait to meet little Trixie. There are moments, especially at night when I am lying there awake (sleeping hasn't been that great lately) when I have a brief panic moment and think "what the hell am I doing?" But this usually subsides pretty quickly when I try to turn over and then realize "the load" I am carrying is my child who I created and I am overwhelmed with the idea of finally becoming a mother and knowing all this extra love I constantly hold in my heart will be going to good use.

I truly believe the countdown has begun and as I finish up some of the last minute details surrounding her arrival, I can reflect back to the beginning when I knew I couldn't wait any longer, when I knew if it was possible, I had to have a baby. And now it it almost finally happening and it just seems to be too good to be true. With most things in my life, I realize I have not taken the straightest or most direct route but somehow have always gotten where I needed to be and this adventure is no exception!