THE RESULTS ARE IN: It's a boy!

We are very happy to report that Baby Cook #2 is a healthy baby boy! It was unmistakable today as we were able to see all body parts involved. He weighs 11 ounces which is typical for a baby at 19 weeks. During the ultrasound, this little guy was extremely active. Both Mommy and Daddy are very happy that Carter will be having a brother. I have to admit that a little bit of shock set in as I pondered if I had enough energy for a lifetime full of football and smelly socks but then I realized that we are truly blessed. And as Jim put it so eloquently, "for now, Mommy will remain the princess!" Our love to all!

"The Baby Bump is Back!"
I am now 16 weeks pregnant. I feel just great but have to stop myself at times to rest. On February 6, I went to the doctor. I have only gained five pounds total in the pregnancy. I was very happy with that considering my past. The heartbeat was strong and 160 b/minute. Some would say that is indicitive of a girl! However, I remember Carter's being fast also. My doctor scheduled the ultrasound for next month when we will be finding out the sex. On March 6, we will know if Carter will be having a brother or a sister. He will be attending the ultrasound. I, of course, will be blogging the results. Until then, have a wonderful and hopefully warm month!

Another Wonderful Holiday!

The Cook's celebrated the Christmas holiday with visits galore. We began celebrating with the Derham's on Christmas Eve. We had a wonderful dinner and opened presents to kick off the festivities. Carter was once again spoiled rotten with gifts from Aunt Steph, Uncle Doug, Aunt Judy and Mommy and Daddy. We then headed off to midnight mass at St. Columban. On Christmas morning, the Derham house was stirring with the opening of presents and the smell of a wonderful breakfast. We then said our goodbyes to the Portland crew and headed out to another celebration with Jim's family. For the first time in many years, all of Jim's siblings were able to visit his parents. It was wonderful to all be together and catch up. The kids played together and the adults talked for hours. It was truly a celebration. I was able to announce my pregnancy which excited everyone. Yes, Carter will be a big brother this year! Cook baby #2 is due on July 31st. I will keep everyone updated. Happy New Year to all!

First Snowfall 2007!

We finally had our first snowfall of the winter season. After unseasonably warm temperatures and lots of rain, we were hit with about 4 inches last Sunday morning. Carter was very excited to play outside and learned very quickly that the snow is cold. He became very ambitious when Mommy suggested we build a snowman. He helped to pack the snow and at times wanted to take over the whole process. He put the arms in the proper location and helped to put on the "buttons". For many days following, Carter wanted to build the snowman a friend. Unfortunately, the snowman didn't even make it 24 hours before it melted! Better luck next time, I suppose. Bring on the snow!

December 2006

Carter has been very helpful this holiday season making the Cook house very festive. He helped Daddy load the fireplace with wood when we had our first lighting of the season. He also enjoyed helping outside with the Christmas lights on an unseasonably warm Sunday afternoon. Carter was very excited to get our live Christmas tree last week. He helped to pick it out from numerous trees on the lot. When Daddy brought it in, he reminded us "Ooh, cold" as he touched the branches. He did not have much of an interest in putting up ornaments, he does however looooove to take them off and bring them to Mommy! He enjoys pressing the button to light up the tree every evening when we get home from school. The next few weeks will be filled with tradition and new adventures. We are practicing sitting on Santa's lap by exposing him to Santa pictures and walk-bys at the mall. Hopefully it won't be as tramatic as the Easter bunny! Our love to all for a warm and wonderful holiday season!

HALLOWEEN 2006

The Cook's celebrated a very spooky Halloween in Loveland, Ohio. Since we get no tricker-treaters, we turned out our lights and head to Nana and Pop's. As you can see, Carter went as Elmo. He was very excited to wear his costume and even wore the hood the whole time. It did not take him long (oh....about three houses) until he was saying "Trick or treat!" and helping himself to candy. He received numerous "He is soooo adorable" and "Look at that cute little Elmo". Carter lasted about ten houses and was ready to show Daddy and Pop his loot. We were so grateful that most of the houses were generous enough to hand out chocolate! After Pop inspected it (and stole Reese Cups), Carter headed off to take a bath and dream of ghosts and ghouls. Another wonderful Halloween for the Cook family!

Carter Rides Again!

Well, it is October and we are staying very busy! Carter had the opportunity last weekend to ride his Aunt Lisa's horse (with assistance from Daddy!) He rode her last year and had a wonderful time. This year he was listening to Lisa's instructions and seemed much more comfortable. He then had the experience of feeding the horse a carrot. He really enjoyed his day at the barn!
As for us, we remain busy with work. Jim spends two days a week in Louisville for Reliable. He enjoys the travel but I miss seeing him every night. I love working for Hamilton City School District. I am taking a sign language class at St. Rita's School for the Deaf which is so much fun. I have to admit that I am counting the days until Christmas break! Speaking of Christmas, please let me know if you locate a Tickle Me Elmo in your town. I am on the hunt for the "hot gift this year". They are flying off the shelves in Hamilton!
Have a wonderful fall and thanks for reading!

"A BOY AND HIS DOGS"

I have now started my new job. After some much needed time off, I began with Hamilton City School district. I will be an itinerant Kindergarten teacher. This means, I will be working with children who are identified to have a delay in specific kindergarten skills. I will work with between 15-20 kids. I am so excited to finally be working in a district. The hours are wonderful which means I have more time to spend with Carter and Daddy! I hope to obtain a classroom postition, but in the meantime I am gaining a wealth of experience. Thanks to all who supported me through my job search. I really felt so many people pulling for me. As for Jim, his ankle is not broken. The doctor has given him a brace to wear and he will begin rehabing it soon. He is beginning to feel like himself again. Love to all!

Well, the summer is winding down and I am sorry to report that Jim is out of commission. On Thursday, he fell and severely sprained his ankle. He is having an MRI done to determine a break in the ankle bone. His foot is turning purple and the swelling has not gone down. He hates having to ice it and misses being able to play and wrestle with Carter. We will know more by next week. I will be adding some pics as soon as I find my cords. Possibly Carter's fault? Love to all!

Carter is two! On June 24th, we had an amazing celebration with family and friends at our house. Carter was excited to open presents. With each one he helped to open, his comment was an enthusiastic "WOW!" He had a wonderful day surrounded by many loved ones. I have to say, next year we may consider a party outside the home! Mommy and Daddy were exhausted! Until next time, our love to all!

Tampa - May 2006

Well, I have finally discovered a way to constantly update all of our distant loved ones. I have created this blog to post Carter's developmental milestones as well as what is going on with his parents. I hope you all enjoy it and I promise to update frequently!

P.S. Thanks for the idea Little Bro!