Potty Training Here We Come

That's right, I think Micaiah may be ready to use a potty. He's been showing several of the classic signs of readiness (although Elliott is having a hard time-doesn't want his little guy to grow up). We have checked out a few little potties, and I think we settled on one (they are so expensive here!) We are planing to get the potty this week and give him a little while to get used to it before we actually start the training. I am reading about just how to start the whole process and have talked with a good friend about what worked and didn't work for her little girl.

So, here's my question: pull-ups or straight to training underwear? Which did you use for your little ones? Did it work well, or would you do it differently if you could do it over? I've heard some moms say that pull-ups just confused their child and normal underwear worked better. Anyone else have this experience? Or the opposite? Any other advice or "wish I would have known that before" information is most welcome.

Six Weeks of Sweetness

This was originally supposed to be a one month update, but it's so hard to make it to the computer these days. Anyway, Shaylee is doing great! She is such a blessing. She is growing like a weed! At her one month check-up she had put on three pounds since the birth, topping her off at an even 11. She grew from 20.5 inches to 22. I constantly look at her and think, "I'm sure glad that head was smaller when it came out of me". She sleeps pretty well - she only gets up once in the night to eat, usually. She is becoming more alert everyday and starting to show preferences for certain things. She turns her head to follow a voice, and if she is fussy she immediately calms down when her mama comes near. We've even gotten a few smiles out of her! Her big brother is doing well with her, and only occasionally tries to hit her. He does steal her pacifier, though it's been over a year since he used one. He recognizes which things are hers, and will bring me a burp cloth or blanket and say , "sis". When she cries he gives her a kiss on the head and also sometimes gives her high five and "props". They'll have so much fun together in a few months.

Here are a few pictures showing the six weeks of our little sweetie's life.

She's finally here!

Only two days old


She may be asleep, but that smile still melts my heart.

Her baby dedication

Catching some sun after church (after over a week of overcast)


Shaylee's first time at the ocean


Catching some 'shut eye' - ha ha


Future rookie card pose!

All dressed up and ready for church

Posing for a family portrait

Cuddle time with Grandma

Playing with big brother


A Cubs fan from birth

Earthquake Update

As you may have seen on the news, Peru has been hit by a magnitude 7.5 earthquake. We are all fine, if not slightly shaken (pardon the ill timed pun). There appears to be no damage to our house or neighboring buildings and we have received word that our mentors, Jarvis and Sue are safe and sound.

Please keep Peru in prayer as the nation recovers.

Sincerely,
Elliott, Dena, Micaiah and Shaylee Innes