Lucy Lollini

Lucy pix

2009-06-28T08:38:00.000-07:00

Lucy with her rally cap on

Lucy finds her voice

Lucy in her little red wagon

Lucy tucking her baby in for a nap

Ah, Lucy and Papa

Lucy pix

2009-06-28T08:31:00.000-07:00

Lucy ready to go, go, go!

One of Lucy's favorite pastimes!

"My Mama went where?"

"I think someone pooped in the pool!"

Two of Lucy's favorite things:

Food and her hair

Ooops, I mean food in her hair

Lucy's first haircut

2009-04-24T14:04:00.000-07:00

It took awhile to actually get enough hair to cut...but sure enough here is Lucy's first trip to the salon. No mullet for my baby!

As I post these pictures, I realize how long it has been since I updated the blog. So at 15 months, here are the highlights of life with Lucy...

Lucy started part time day care a couple of months ago and loves hanging with Abby, her new day care friend and partner in crime. I have been told that despite Lucy being about 6 months younger than Abby, Lucy is the instigator. I can't imagine where Lucy gets that rebelliousness!

The teeth are slowly making their way from inside her gums into a place they can actually be useful. I count 5 teeth so far with hopes of more on the way. No worries, however, about Lucy being able to eat real food. Our motto? Lucy has not met a food she didn't like!

Walking alert! At 15 months, Lucy has no desire to walk. She can. She has all the tools, she just won't. She will stand up on her own for a very long moment and then realize what is happening and sit down. She will walk with me hand in hand down the block with no problems. She will push everything that moves around the house. She pulls herself up on smooth surfaces like the wall. Still no walking...once again I ask, where does she get this "I'll do it my way" attitude?

So if walking isn't her thing...talking certainly is! Lucy talks morning, noon and night! She seems to have an opinion about everything. Just this morning she was commenting on the state of affairs in Pakistan and I swear she said, "No nukes, mama!" And even though she continues to sign to express herself, she will double up with Lucy-talk just to make sure I understand. To be honest, I am not sure who talks more these days, me or Lucy (and I do it for a living!)

As you can see, life with Lucy continues to be a sensational ride with twists and turns and laughs and hugs galore. When we sit down each night and do some reading, I fully expect her to start reading to me. Glad that she isn't however, because she is truly finding her independence and realizing she can do more and more for herself. Good thing, cuz I hate doing laundry!

My second 1st birthday party!

2009-02-18T16:21:00.000-08:00

This is my cousin Anthony reading me one of my birthday cards. Sure is good to have older cousins around to help out with the stuff I can't do yet!

Now I know I don't look very interested in what Becca is doing, but I really am, seriously. It was just someone had food over there.

Here I am with Emma...I loved that even though I had only met these cousins a couple of times, they were so great with me!

I didn't include any cake pictures, cuz they looked a lot like the last bunch. Even my dress is the same, did you notice?

I had birthday parties two weekends in a row. What more could a big girl like me ask for, huh?

It truly was a special day...I think I can be bold enough to say, "A good time was had by all!"

Happy Birthday to me!

2009-01-21T10:00:00.001-08:00

Mama downloaded the pix in the reverse order...but I think you get the idea!

My 1st birthday was a spectacular event. There was cake and lots of friends and cake and presents and cake. Thanks Grandma for the cake!

Happy New Year of hope!

2009-01-05T11:34:00.000-08:00

Lucy and Papa

Lucy and Austin

Lucy and Nate

Lucy waiting patiently for food

I share a few recent photos of Lucy as I reflect back on "A year with Lucy..."

After a year with Lucy, some things have become apparently clear while others are still a mystery.

So many milestones and so many more still to come. Lucy understanding “Lucy” is her name. Lucy smiling and giggling. Lucy rolling over for the first time as we were watching “Grease”. Lucy sitting up on her own and not falling over. Lucy crawling and crawling and crawling. Lucy saying, “Mama!” Lucy’s first runny nose – was it allergies, foot and mouth, some disease not yet discovered? Lucy’s first plane ride. Lucy eating solid foods, everything! Lucy’s first tooth, kinda. Lucy on a road trip. Lucy looking up at me with those big, curious brown eyes as if to say, “teach me more, mama.” All those little sounds she makes, words to her, cuteness to me. Lucy pulling herself up and looking at me with that big, proud grin. Lucy singing, “La la la.” Lucy getting into places she can’t get out of. OMG, this list would stretch longer than my breasts if I continued!

Perhaps, my happiest moments with Lucy (and it is a tie I have to admit) are just snuggling on the couch before her final evening bottle at bedtime. She is soft and cuddly and leans into me without a care in the world as if the day is slowly repeating itself in her head and she is proud by all she has accomplished and then suddenly tired by all she has accomplished.

The other happiest moments are sharing her with others. Lucy loves people. She loves to watch them. She loves when they watch her. And, I believe, she gets bored just watching me. I was called a baby hog as Lucy and I spend lots of time on our own. And it is not about me not wanting to share, but making sure those I am going to share her with are all in. I got over this apprehension slowly, still working on it, I guess. So, while I do not mind leaving her with family and friends, I do miss out on how she reacts to them. What she does when there is a different voice, a different set of hands picking her up.

I find myself just staring at Lucy to get her reactions when she is with others. Her joy is my joy. Funny, how it takes a little person to teach you about joy, huh? And I’m not just talking about a smile or a hug. I am talking about the absolutely, all out, bar the door kind of joy. The kind of joy where your mouth aches from all the smiling you’ve been doing. The kind of joy which flutters in your heart when you get her out of her crib and she sees you for the first time in 11 hours. The kind of joy which forces you to keep that hand behind her, just in case. The kind of joy where all the cares in the world slip away. Ya know what I mean?

2008 was a wild year…makes me not want to read anything but the travel section or book reviews in the newspaper. It scares me to think how the world has become such a chaotic mess, how the economy has fallen, how kids shoot their moms for making them do chores. Maybe I didn’t pay so close attention before Lucy, maybe a piece of me didn’t care so much. But now I have an added investment in life, a reason to care about global warming and the economy and the war in Iraq. And while I always strived to be a good person and love my neighbor, now I want my neighbor to love me back and show some respect and not run the water while they brush their teeth.

And in a year, I will have different worries, one hopes. And I think that is the point of this, HOPE. Hope in the future, what it will bring and how I can influence that hope on a small level. They say you need to start at home and for me that’s the easy part!

Thanksgiving afternoon

2008-12-01T14:48:00.000-08:00

I love a holiday when food is the center of it all! Hey, why are my mama's cheeks so red?

This is me giggling on Joan's lap and petting Bailey with my foot. I am a multitasker!

Mama wanted a picture with the two of us. But there was so much going on I had a hard time focusing on the camera and smiling. Notice the outfit? Thanks, Papa!

A shiny new dime for anyone who guesses whose legs I'm crawling between...

Thanksgiving morning

2008-12-01T14:25:00.000-08:00

How do you know when to worry about your kid?

2008-11-07T15:44:00.001-08:00

Eating Disorder NOS

Destruction of property

Excessive texting

Cruelty to animals

Stealing

Severe isolation

"My mama's for Obama," Lucy said!

2008-11-04T11:58:00.001-08:00

My mama’s for Obama, Lucy said, Lucy said
My mama’s for Obama, Lucy said
We want our state to be blue, not red
My mama’s for Obama, Lucy said

We woke up this morning and what did we say?
Our lives will be changed for the better today!
My mama’s for Obama, Lucy said, Lucy said
My mama’s for Obama, Lucy said

We voted for hope there’d be no hanging chads
We voted for hope that things would stop being bad
My mama’s for Obama, Lucy said, Lucy said
My mama’s for Obama, Lucy said

I have studied the electoral college and am watching CNN
In hopes we will be victorious in the end
My mama’s for Obama, Lucy said, Lucy said
My mama’s for Obama, Lucy said

The many faces of Lucy

2008-10-28T16:40:00.001-07:00

Halloween Lucy

New hat and shoes Lucy

Trying to look cute Lucy

Working with Mary Lucy

Getting into it

2008-09-30T06:12:00.001-07:00

Lucy's favorite activity, besides, eating and sleeping, of course, has been getting into tight spots. The getting in is the fun part, the getting out is a whole different story!

Gangsta Baby

2008-09-30T06:06:00.000-07:00

The day the Cheerios met their match...

2008-09-06T10:27:00.000-07:00

There is lots of exploring going on at the Lollini household. Most days, Lucy finds things, takes a good look at them and then puts them in her mouth only to realize they are too big to swallow or just don't have any flavor. But when she realized those small little pieces of something actually tasted good, I knew the Cheerios were in trouble. Lucy is currently leaving a trail of Cheerios in her wake, so if you're ever curious where she might be...

Lucy chases an ant

2008-08-23T16:17:00.000-07:00

She's quick! And I'm not always camera-ready. So even though she got the jump on me, I did appear to get most of the action.

A mid morning snack...

2008-08-23T15:51:00.000-07:00

I noticed it had been awhile since I last posted to the blog...so I wanted to dismiss any rumors that my belly gets in the way when I eat my toes!

Jumpin'

2008-08-09T10:24:00.000-07:00

Lucy on the town!

2008-07-30T15:39:00.001-07:00

Lucy with Grandma at the Rockies game
Lucy atop Pikes Peak
Lucy ready for a walk
Lucy hangin' with Nate

We had a wildly fun 4 days with Grandma, Papa and Nate. I think Lucy's favorite part was just hangin' with her big cousin Nate who spent literally hours entertaining her. After a full day away from Lucy on Friday as Nate and Papa and Mama went up to Estes Park, Lucy was taught some new tricks by Grandma. The next time you see her, ask Lucy "where her pigs are..." And I'm never sure Lucy is going to rest as soundly as she does on her Papa's shoulder. How wonderful to have a house full of people just to sit and watch and play with Lucy. What a treat for Lucy and Mama!

Happy Half Birthday to me!

2008-07-17T14:33:00.000-07:00

Here's where I spend lots of my time wriggling around!

Here's me with my buddy, Bailey!

So, the day started with my mama coming in and singing to me in my crib...of course, she does do that on most days, but something told me this day was special. What I learned was that I am 6 months old today...halfway from my birth and halfway to my first birthday (where I hear there might be cake!)

My take on things after a half year? Well, I guess I like it out here. I mean, it was so cramped inside my mama and now I can roll around and stuff. And another big thing is I wasn't able to get hugs and kisses in there. Who knew they would be so great? My mama's voice sounds different on the outside and trust me, I hear it a lot! But she's probably got the prettiest singing voice I ever heard. And now, I'm able to eat real stuff, not just milk, so that's good, too. So I'd say this turning 6 months is a pretty cool deal!

Next week I get to see my big cousin Nate and Grandma and Grandpa, so I'm sure there'll be pictures.

Til then,

Peace out!

Happy Birthday, Papa!

2008-07-07T09:29:00.000-07:00

Lucy at play

2008-06-24T10:43:00.000-07:00

Lucy goes for a swim

2008-06-15T19:07:00.000-07:00

The Million Dollar Mermaid
Hangin' at the pool
The gals in the hats

Lucy had her first pool date with Katya and she loved it although the photos don't really show it. Once Lucy figured out she wasn't getting a bath, she kicked her legs and checked out all the "big" kids splashing around her. I've got to stop being surprised when my daughter is okay with new things. As we were walking out of the pool after a fun day in the sun, Lucy looked over at the baby pool and scoffed at it. My big girl in the big pool...

Lucy in Chicago

2008-06-07T14:18:00.001-07:00

Lucy loving her Papa!
Nate and Lucy...she's having a hard time with the Sox hat!
Lucy and the gang!
Lucy reaching new heights thanks to Uncle Ray!
Lucy chillin' in the park

Just a few shots from our glorious 5 days in the Windy City...Lucy was an absolute doll on the plane. So much for all the worrying her Mama did beforehand. But most importantly, Lucy got to meet the rest of her family and friends in a long weekend of activities. Many thanks to Grandma & Papa who did loads of preparing to make us feel incredibly at home and for throwing Lucy a doozy of a party! And for all those who traveled many miles to come to St. Charles to meet Lucy and see me, I am continually grateful.

Guess who's eating real food...

2008-05-16T21:01:00.000-07:00

Lucy says, "What's this stuff?"

Lucy says, "Who cares?! It's great!"

After the stories I heard about how difficult it might be to introduce other foods to your breastfed baby, I was apprehensive to try with Lucy despite all the signs she was giving me she was ready. She was sitting up. She was staring at the food I was eating. She was over the all you can eat buffet with just one entree.

So we dove in, quite literally, to rice cereal and Lucy gave it a resounding two thumbs up!

Let's add this to the list of firsts...right after rolling over and laughing.

Lucy in Moab

2008-05-03T09:11:00.001-07:00

Lucy and Pierson meet for the first time...check out the fun on Pierson's feet!

Kelly gets to share a moment with Lucy

For those of you who have been paying attention, you will recall Lucy had a little friend, Pierson, born just 10 days before her. Now after all these months they finally got to meet. We're not quite sure if they realized that was another baby or if they might just be looking in the mirror. Kelly and Thatcher and I marvelled at how similar our babies were in the noises they made and their gestures. Pierson has an inch or two on Lucy but what she lacks in height she certainly makes up for in cheeks!

Lucy visits Open Sky

2008-05-03T07:17:00.000-07:00

Lucy hangin' with the gang...Danny, Danny, Nicola and Dave. No one ever forgets their first trip to the Open Sky trailer! (Yes, she was properly outfitted in her cargo pants and sun hat!)

Lucy gazing up at Mom outside the trailer wondering what might be next on the agenda.

What a wonderful day (despite the wind) out in the field at Open Sky. Lucy was a trooper ready for anything. She hung close to me, literally, as we made our way through the camp. We had a chance to visit some of the young adults and then head off to see the graduation ceremony. Finally, we shared some lunch with the field guides and it was decided that Lucy was a field guide in training. And while she may not have been able to grasp all the joy and wonder which happens out in the field, for one day Lucy was a part of the magic.

Fun with the family

2008-04-25T11:49:00.000-07:00

What's the old saying? You can pick your nose but you can't pick your family?

Lucy got a large dose of Grandma and Grandpa and Auntie Toni when they drove through Denver on their way back home from St. George. They got to spend an extra day with Lucy as I had jury duty on the Monday after the Blessing. I left Lucy in their very capable hands. Maybe too capable it appears.

When I arrived home after putting in my hours of civic duty, I found that Lucy had taken her very first swing at the park down the street and had switched from putting her whole fist into her mouth to just her first two fingers.

Perhaps this work at home mom has taken the little milestones for granted up until this point. Her first coo and her first real smile (not gas) and when Lucy realized her name was Lucy and not Sweetie are all things I just took in stride...because I was there for them. But I found I was bummed to have missed her first ride in a swing and when I mentioned her fingers in her mouth rather than her fist, my mom said "Oh, she's been doing that all weekend."

The upside of it all? These firsts were done with her family who are not around to see all the little firsts which come up in every child's life. So, if I had to miss out, I am glad Grandma and Grandpa and Auntie Toni were here to experience them!

Lucy's Blessing

2008-04-13T13:43:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Lucy's life with a blessing on April 12th. You can only imagine the flood of emotion on display as family and friends (with a few very missed souls) gathered to share in the love and joy which is Lucy Grace! Below is the prayer I wrote and read to Lucy on her special day.

To my daughter

You will never truly know how much love surrounded you before you even entered this world. And because there are things you may not experience yourself, I hope to bring to you the gift of my experience and my hopes and my life. My wish is to bring these to you unconditionally and to allow you the space to be just you.

Know, Lucy, that I would move mountains for you, but I want you to move your own mountains. Know my heart in its entirety I would give to you except I have a feeling your own heart will be big enough for both of us. Know you will not have the same experience some other children might have growing up and that is precisely the plan for I want your journey to be your own. Know, too, there will always be warmth and kindness and hope in our house because those are the things I hold dear but as you grow and come to have your own values and wishes there will be room for them as well.

There are times when I look at you when you are asleep or when you are smiling up at me and I simply want to cry. The tears are caused by the overwhelming joy of simply having you as a part of my life. Every time a stranger on the street passes you and smiles at your beauty and light, I feel so much pride; pride which I have never felt for myself. I think when asked any parent might say all they want for their child is happiness, but for you, Lucy, happiness is only the beginning.

As we head down this path we call life together, I look forward to all you will teach me. I look forward to watching you become the beautiful and wonderful and special girl you are to become. I look forward to enjoying your talents and nurturing your passions. For you see, I have no set ideals, just hopes…

2 months and counting...

2008-03-18T23:18:00.000-07:00

So at my 2 month check up I weighed in at 11.8 pounds. Now I know a lady is not supposed to talk about her weight, but it seems to be quite the topic of discussion among those around me. I, like some politicians of late, do not want any skeletons in my closet and before it appears in the Enquirer or some other such rag, I thought I'd disclose the information myself. And you can be sure I am very proud of those 11 and a half pounds cuz I worked hard for them. From this picture, you may assume I am carrying most of my weight in my cheeks. However, what you can't see from this picture is that I am actually pretty tall - 23+ inches. Well, that's all for now, gotta get back to the important tasks of eating, pooping and smiling!

Love and hugs,
Lucy

Going for a walk...

2008-03-18T10:39:00.000-07:00

A happy day....

2008-03-11T15:13:00.000-07:00

Although I must admit that every day is pretty much a happy day, I thought I'd get bit of this one on film and share it with you. Turn up the volume to hear some classic Lucy sounds. And just imagine how difficult it was for me to keep quiet for the entire video...Enjoy!

Lucy meets her cousin Nate

2008-03-08T08:08:00.000-08:00

You really can't tell from this picture, but Lucy fell in love with her cousin Nate at first glance. She knew immediately that he was kind and smart and funny. Despite the late hour in which Nate arrived, Lucy stayed up to meet him. At it was as if Nate was born to be an older brother cuz he jumped right in and held Lucy and fed her and even had a hand in changing her.

As the weekend progressed, you could see Lucy's affection for her cousin deepen. He was always first to sit next to her in the car, attentive to how hot or cold she might be and he was the official Lucy carrier his entire visit. As an outsider looking in, I was a little jealous, I must say. Jealous at how lucky Lucy is to have such a wonderful cousin to teach her things and protect her and to simply just love her!

An ordinary day with Lucy

2008-02-27T11:17:00.000-08:00

Lucy on the red carpet

2008-02-24T11:35:00.000-08:00

An exclusive interview from the Academy Awards...

Interviewer: We are here with Lucy Lollini live on the red carpet...so Lucy how is your first Academy Awards so far?

Lucy: Obviously, I was nervous they might not happen due to the writer's strike...

Interviewer: Speaking of the writer's strike, any truth to the rumor you were late making your appearance into the world as a show of solidarity for the writer's?

Lucy: As you may be aware, I am a huge fan of the writers, but I came into this world on my own terms. You know, some of us just need a little extra time preparing for the paparazzi!

Interviewer: Can I ask what you're wearing tonight?

Lucy: Absolutely...this is vintage Disney from their Classic Pooh collection. I had to buy off the rack.

Interviewer: Have you been able to hob-knob with any stars?

Lucy: Certainly, that George Clooney is just as delicious in person...and that girl from Juno was extra friendly to me. I think all those months playing a pregnant lady and then not really having a baby took it's toll on her. And what's with all the kissing in this town? Doesn't anyone hug anymore?

Interviewer: Anything else you want to add?

Lucy: Well, even though I am not nominated this year, I'd like to thank all my fans for their love and support! And in the words of Sally Field, "You like me...you really like me!"

Hello from Lucy!

2008-02-21T13:33:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to say hi to you all and show you how I look on my 5th week birthday! I also decided to do something new with my hair. What do you think?

"You want to put that thermometer where?"

2008-02-17T15:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

2008-02-14T09:01:00.000-08:00

My mom told me I had to send this Valentine's wish to you all. Then she mumbled about how she had to send Valentines to everyone in her class even the ones she didn't like or picked their nose or smelled funny. Not sure what that was all about...sounds like some unresolved issues!

Anyway, I am a month old today! Last night we talked about how I came into the world and as I look back (I really don't remember) I am amazed how much has changed for me in this past month. I am definitely learning the difference between day and night and now I understand why my mom doesn't really talk or sing to me when it's dark outside.

I have also started to take baths (which I don't really mind although the first time I have to admit I was a bit alarmed by it.) My social life has definitely gotten better as we venture out not just to see the doctor but now to meet friends as well. Seems we know a bunch of people cuz we even meet them at the store sometimes.

For those of you I haven't met, I am very much looking forward to the day when we finally get that chance!

Peace out,

Lucy

Uncle Ray meets Lucy G

2008-02-06T15:07:00.000-08:00

She may have been casually late making her entrance but the extra brewing time paid off because this is one cute kid. Her pictures haven't done her justice and when you throw her personality into the equation it only enhances this little angel.

Her Grandparents are taking a once in a life time trip to Kiwiland but I got to go to Lucyland.

Even with diaper changing I got the better end of the deal. They may be overseas but I'm sure little Lucy G is still the main topic of conversation.

I only have a couple of days left to figure how to smuggle this little stinker back to Chicago without her mother noticing. Any and all ideas are welcome.

Blessed be...

2008-02-02T08:07:00.000-08:00

Sometime last night, or should I say very early this morning, as I was snuggling into bed after a feeding, it dawned on me how absolutely blessed I have been. I can go back and chronicle all the things from since I was a kid, but no one has that kinda time, especially a new mom!

First and foremost, I have been incredibly blessed with this sweet girl you see above. People have been passing around the word perfect (which I have never used much in regular life simply cuz I'm a realist and perfect doesn't ring true very often), but in this case, who's to argue? She is perfect!

Secondly, I am super fortunate to have this kind of support system surroundung Lucy and myself. From the first days of my talking about having a baby, til that first night in the hospital, Grandma and Papa doing a wonderful job of hiding just how scared they were for my not yet born baby and Joan spending the night so Lucy could stay in the room with me, til now receiving well-wishes and kind thoughts and words of encouragement, to gifts which randomly show up on my doorstep. Until you are in a place like this, you can not know what joy and happiness is truly.

I know I keep saying thank you to you all and if I could come up with a better way to show my gratitude or find different words, I would...I could list you all separately, but that seems too Academy Award-ish and the music would be playing to rush me off stage before I was even a quarter of the way through. I keep thinking of something my mom said as we were patiently waiting for Lucy to arrive. She said, "Do you realize how many people out there are thinking about you...some you have never even met." And then I understood how the ripple effect works when you choose to surround yourself with such spectacular people.

Lucy and the bunny...

2008-01-28T15:49:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-01-26T10:36:00.000-08:00

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...?!?

2008-01-23T16:02:00.001-08:00

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!

2008-01-19T15:52:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-01-17T19:47:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-01-17T11:14:00.001-08:00

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!

2008-01-14T14:52:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-01-14T14:33:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-01-12T10:44:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-01-10T14:43:00.000-08:00

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?

2008-01-10T14:34:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-01-08T18:54:00.000-08:00

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

2008-01-06T18:05:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-01-03T15:17:00.000-08:00

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!

Now I can't wait...

2007-12-31T10:09:00.000-08:00

So after hearing all the wonderful things you all have had to say (both as comments on this blog and to our personal e-mail address), I can't wait to meet you all! My mom and I have been working on using feeling words...and all I can come up with is that I feel warm and cuddly. I hear this may be what love feels like, but I'm not so sure as of yet. All I know is there have been some tears involved...

I've been moving around a lot lately, trying to figure out what is the next step. I'm sure I'll know exactly what to do when the time comes.

Oh and one more thing, it appears as though you have to open a google account to post comments on my blog. For some of you not familiar with this fancy technical stuff, you might find this difficult but the help link can prove to be the solution for you. If you are morally opposed to opening a google account, you can keep writing to our personal e-mail account. But remember, all my fans like to read what you have to say as well!

Doing it my way

2007-12-26T11:47:00.000-08:00

Hello!

Thanks for coming to my blog. Because I am my mother's daughter, I have lots to say and thought this might be the best way to get the word out.

The other night I was listening to some music and I heard this guy say something like, "I did it my way!" And it occurred to me how that has really been my motto over these last 8 months or so. To help you understand, let me tell you a bit about what's it has been like for me.

One day I found myself floating freely in this warm, dark, liquidy place. I was swimming around without a care in the world. Every once in a while I'd hear some sounds which were comforting even in those early days. And then I felt my world shaking around me and the sounds seemed to be joyous and wonderful. I soon learned this to be what a laugh felt like and craved those times more and more.

I couldn't quite figure out how to make those sounds happen all the time until I got a little bigger and found all I had to do was kick my feet or punch my hand. When I did this, I got a reaction, usually the laugh sounds and the shaking of my world. Then I started to kick and punch and squirm all the time. My favorite time to do this is when everything is all quiet and then a good kick can change all that.

I also found in my little world there were times when I got something I didn't much care for and I decided to change that, too. It was this really icky tasting thing and I made sure to cause such a ruckus so that they wouldn't send it down to me anymore. I fussed and complained and sent out the "bad" vibes and never had to deal with it again.

Another time, I heard the sounds of people talking and I think they were talking about me cuz they kept asking, "is it a boy or a girl?" And I felt this cool brush against my world going back and forth, up and down. So I decided to swim around and try to get out of the way of it. Then I heard, "I can't tell if it's a boy or a girl because she/he won't let me see." It became a game, I guess, and I think I won.

But mostly, when I'm not playing games in here, I'm taking naps and growing. The other day, I noticed it is getting more cramped and not so easy to move. Once I figure out how to change that you better believe I will. But for now things seem to be pretty chill, so I may hang out for a bit longer.