What schedule, Mom?

Yes, Aberly has decided that after two days on her schedule, she isn't so sure she wants to keep it.  She didn't want to go down for her naps on Sunday and so far today, she seems to be fighting it as well.  Ah, the life of a baby!!! :-)

I think it's God's way of keeping me on my toes and not letting me get to hot-headed, which is a good thing!  A few weeks ago when Aberly was sleeping 7-8 hour stints at night, as soon as I bragged about that, it stopped.  After bragging about her schedule on my blog and to friends, that is being tested as well.  At first it frustrated me, but now I take it as a sign to be more flexible and patient.

Today I was skimming my Bible and the verses in Galatians about the fruits of the Spirit jumped out as me.  It reminded me that to be the best mom for Aberly, I need to show her those daily.  Joy, love, patience, and peace!  I know I won't always be perfect, but God calls me to display those.  It also reminds me that I need to pray daily for His help in acheiving that.  "I can do anything through God who strengthens me".  I don't remember where that verse is in the New Testament, but it is one that stays close to my heart.

  

Happier and happier!

Miss Aberly is a growing girl and getting happier all the time.  She has become the queen of smiles and we can tell she is on the verge of laughing.  She is getting stronger and can stand on her legs with our support for balance.  Quite the talker when she wants to be, she is very entertaining.  Oh, and she continues to be very alert and take in the world.  If we are somewhere new, she looks and looks around at everyone and everything.  

Something that has helped this emerge is getting her on a schedule every day.  I realized I wasn't doing a good job of getting her down for a nap when she needed it, and the lack of sleep or delayed nap when she needed it brought on the intense fussiness.  After a this first week of being home with her alone, I've discovered she normally is up for about 1 1/2 -  2 hours and then needs to sleep (indicated by fussiness starting or rubbing her eyes).  After a nap, she'll eat and be happy again till her next nap.

This weekend we are very lucky to have Grandma Elaine visiting from Corvallis.  Last night we went out for a wonderful date while she babysat, and she continues to help out with Aberly during the day.  This morning we went out for breakfast and she was happy and content!

A few new pics