I'm Angry; Skip Reading If You Want

 Dearest Alex,

This is going to be a tough letter.  Your defiant attitude about not wanting to go to school for THREE HOURS has me seeing red, and I've not been this angry in a long time.

1) I love you.  You're my 1st grandchild and it hurts me so much to see you at this level of defiance.

2) Your Papa loves you very much also. He is fed up with your attitude and your seemingly unwillingness to join in family meals, unless we're going out to eat.

3) I don't know how it got into your head that somehow, you're in control of this family. Your Papa is the head of the family; I'm second in command.  You live under our roof; therefore, you are to follow our rules. You are 13 years old; that does not give you the right to go about your merry way and disregard our authority,

Yes, your father did a bad thing.

Yes, according to you, you're being picked on.

Guess what?  If you don't grow a thick skin, people will ALWAYS ridicule you. That's a fact of life you need to get through your head right now.

When you become a full-fledged adult, you're going to deal with people in authority over you:  Bosses. Supervisors. Coworkers with seniority.  There will be hazing; there will be people you won't get along with but be forced to work side by side.

The ONLY thing you can do is learn to deal with it.  I worked for two years with a toxic manager, and thankfully she quit.  I have coworkers I tolerate and those I genuinly like.

Your Papa is aging, and he's always had a temper. When he told you to pack your bags, he wasn't throwing you out of the house; it was NOT a rejection; he is just at his wit's end with your behavior and decided to let your mother handle you.

I sincerely hope MeeMaw and Myranda talk some sense into you.

Because at this point, your choices are to a) go home; b) go to the mental place in Evansville; or c) Foster care.  I don't know if enrolling you in K12 is the answer.  You would have to be a self-starter and actually WORK at it, with one of us as your Learning Coach, much like I did with your Uncle Will in the 4th and 5th grades.

Bottom line, young lady.....we love you and we want you to succeed in life.  And that means holding up your end of the bargain and going to school.

Love,

Grandma

(who is very angry and upset with you at the moment)

We Really Need To Address Your Coping Skills.....

 Dearest Alex,

I don't know whether taking you to the hospital last week was a good thing, or if you were playing us.  On one hand, I KNOW you have a history of cutting, and getting you help is a top priority.  On the other hand, spending 18 hours in the ER, only to be released back into our care didn't really resolve anything, other then you claimed you felt better after talking to someone while I was out of the room.

I agree; sending you 90 minutes away to a facility was NOT my 1st choice; I'd have much preferred you go to the place in Evansville, where you'd be closer to your mom.

I strongly suspect you'll eventually go back home and be homeschooled.  If you have that much trouble with teachers and students distracting you.....well then, so be it.  If it comes down to the fact you can't go back, then we'll all have to make adjustments in order for you to receive the best education.

I just wish you would talk to us, sweetie.  We can't read your mind.

I love you.

Grandma

7th Grade P-T Conference

 Dearest Alex

Feel free to skip this letter if it dredges up too many bad memories, but your grandma is a writer who needs to get this off her chest.

First of all, I love you dearly. Never forget that.

I would be remiss if I didn't express my sorrow and disappointment when I learned you had not only refused to do your school assignments, but had also been outright defiant to your teachers.

One of them, I understand; she didn't come across as very nice to you.  But still, that does not give you the right to be rude to her in front of everyone else.  If you have a problem with your teacher, you take it up with the counselor, the Dean (Mr. Pfoff), or your mother, or even us.  I was happy you had talked with your other teacher (I'm not sure what subject she teaches-Language arts, maybe?) about doing better than 14% of your work.

I sincerely want you to succeed, sweetheart, and do well in school. I know I'm not around a lot; you're gone before I get up and in bed when I get home from work, but I'm always available if you want to text me.

It breaks my heart when I hear reports of you being defiant.  I was encouraged when your Math teacher said you seemed happy in her class, and that if you wanted to use her room during Study Hall to do your work or get help, she would be willing to assist you.

Believe me when I say I understand your teenage mind (a little bit of it, anyway!)  When I was your age (now don't roll your eyes!) I thought I was the center of the universe, and nobody could possibly understand what I was going through.  I think your mother felt the same way; all three of us shut down when confronted. You come by that honestly.

I didn't handle my bullying situation very well, and your mother didn't handle her first two years at Clark very well either.  In hindsight, I should have allowed her to stay home and be homeschooled. But I didn't, and here we are; patterns being repeated.  I didn't want to talk about what was happening; I was positive I've be blamed for the downfall of a popular athlete. I'm not entirely sure what was going on with your mother; she still hasn't spoken about it.

But you can break that cycle, sweetie.  Things have changed when talking to someone is no longer a stigma. You have people in your corner; me, your mom, Mrs. Vickers.

You have a family who loves you and wants to see you succeed.  Just get through this painful period and see it as a polishing moment.  To refine a precious resource, you have to peel/grind/scrape off the dead layers in order to see the shining diamond or gold inside.

Unfortunately, this happens during the moment when hormones are raging and emotions are confusing.

Love,

Grandma

Mommy's Getting Married!

 Dearest Alex,

It's been a rough 3 months for you....your mom was pregnant, then the ultrasound showed it wasn't viable, so she had to suffer a miscarriage. She's getting married today to Angelo Phanord, whom she works with at Perdue.  He's Haitian, seems to love your mommy very much (I know she loves him-more on this later), and seems to treat her well.

Let's talk about YOU for a moment.  Your attitude at school and at home is concerning; your rudeness and unfiltered comments toward me and your teacher indicates to me (I took many Child Psychology classes in college, so I think I know what I'm talking about) you are crying out for attention.

I know Mommy sleeps until noon, and lately she's been spending her weekend with Angelo in Washington. There's been talk of moving to Lafayette in June, after school is over for the year, and you'll be able to see Aunt Reagan and Grandma Sally more often.  Papa has told me you're not happy about these plans.  It seems as if everyone is making decisions for you without your input.  In the first place, you're only 9, so Mommy feels as if she's doing this FOR you, not TO you. In the second place, I understand your rebellion against this, since I feel yes, your input should have been taken into consideration about both who Mommy marries and where you're going to live.

We had to do this to your mom when she was 12; we had to pack up at a moment's notice and move down here, ignoring her pleas to live with one of her friends.  In hindsight, was that the right decision?  I don't know.  She spiraled downward into depression for a couple of years.  But her situation is different, since the only people she knew in this town was your Papa's family, who were not that kind.  You are moving to my hometown, where I have friends with grandchildren your age, and your beloved Auntie Reagan and Grandma Sally, who love you very much and will do almost anything for you, to ease the transition.

I don't want to see you turn into a rebellious pre-teen.  I want the sweet Alex we've known for the past 9 years, the helpful and loving child, not this stranger who rebuffs affection and calls me a Karen when I try to correct you.  I am not your mother; I'm your grandma, and there is a different set of rules.

I love you very much, and this rebellious attitude hurts me.  I wish you would talk to me, but you're very much like your mom and me, in that we hold our feelings close, and shut down, instead of talking to someone.  I've gotten better at letting people in over the years, and I can only pray you and your mom will do the same.  It's not easy, believe me.  I don't think you've gone through the bullying that's occurred to your mom or the issues I faced beginning in the 4th-9th grades.  My faith in God got me through those horrible years; however, your mom shunned the church, and has refused to take you.  Your Papa hasn't been very encouraging, either.  I've tried.

Back to what's happening today:  Your mom told me the minute she touched Angelo, something told her, 'this is my man'.  That's called a 'soul mate', sweetie, and I hope it happens to you in another 10-15 years.  I wasn't able to be more involved with mine, due to poor choices on my part, but that's LIFE.  Your mom is lucky....and we certainly hope it proves so.  Some people find their soul mate early; others find it later.  

As to your Papa....he is a racist man.  He's refusing to even meet Angelo and get to know him, based solely on his skin color and ethnicity.  I hope his comments haven't confused you or influenced your opinion.

Again, I love you dearly, and will always be a phone call away, or even a room away, when and if you need me.

Love,

Grandma

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO

You're Now A 3rd Grader!

 Dear Alex,

You've had quite a summer!  Mommy's been home, you were a flower girl in Uncle Kyle and Aunt Jeanna's wedding, and you were taught the basics of bouncing on a trampoline at cousin Phoenix's 2nd birthday party:)

School has started, and your teacher is Miss Eck, whom you know from the playground last year.

Grandma is still working nearly full-time at Lowe's, and am getting ready to home school Uncle Will.  Uncle Kyle and Aunt Jeanna are in the process of moving into their new house in Freelandville, and Mommy is making plans to return to work by the end of the month.

Grandma and Papa are heading to Las Vegas in a few days, to see Papa's friends Randy and Shantel.  We're leaving on the 14th and returning sometime after the 23rd.

Grandma Sally is still confined to the retirement facility, but she loves to chat with you on the phone whenever she calls or I call her.  She loves you very much and wishes you could be allowed to see her.  When this Covid-19 nightmare is over and we get back to normal, you'll be able to hug and kiss her again.

The Watermelon Festival was this past weekend, and you enjoyed hanging out in Grandma's booth and eating watermelon, corn dogs, ice cream, and drinking lemonade.  You were also thrilled to see a few friends dance on stage, and to buy a mermaid tail from one of the vendors.

I'll try to write again next month, sweetie!

Lots of love,

Grandma

The New 'Normal'

Dear Alex,
You just finished 2nd grade, and in a strange way.  The country has been sidelined with the Corona/Covid-19 virus which closed schools in March, and shortened the school year by a week.  You and Mommy have been working on your weekly assignment packets, and you seemed to enjoy working on your research paper on Tigers.

I know it's been tough on you, because you can't see your friends from school, but you've made friends with the girls across the street and around the corner, and have been over to play with them on a semi-regular basis.

You mastered riding your two-wheeled bicycle last month, and enjoy going over to the George Rogers Clark Memorial parking lot to ride around, without having the fear of traffic:)

With Mommy at home, due to the shut down, you've had her all to yourself, and have been shopping, getting fast-food delivered or picked up, and playing with the dogs.

Grandma has been working 30-40 a week, so you haven't seen me a great deal, but I'm thrilled you're not shunning hugs or kisses anymore.  Your birthday is coming up and I'm hoping we'll be able to take you to Brown County again, to ride the horses.

Uncle Kyle's wedding is coming up at the end of June (postponed from May 16th due to the Shelter In Place directive), and you're looking forward to being the Flower Girl.

I forgot to write this past winter, and I'm sorry.  We were all devastated by the loss of Papa Mike November 20th, 2019.  You were his joy, and the two of you had a special relationship.  Within four months, we had Grandma Sally moved into Cumberland Point Assisted Living, and put the house up for sale.  As of this date, we're still waiting for repairs to be made, so it can pass the new buyers' inspection, and close on the sale.

I brought home several marble tables and the low coffee table, which you have enjoyed playing with, and placing your Leggos on.  You also love Grandma's desk, with the various cubby holes and extra drawers, and have claimed 'your' drawers on the right.

You miss Grandma Sally, but as soon as the lock down is lifted, we will go to Lafayette and take her to a steak restaurant, because she's getting tired of chicken. and more importantly, she misses you too!

Til next time....
Love,
Grandma

Merry Christmas!

Dear Alex,

Merry Christmas!

We took you to see Santa earlier this month, and you were so excited to go see him!  But when it was your turn, you stood beside him with your hands covering your mouth, and whispered in his ear that you wanted some 'LOL Surprise Dolls'.  Later, you worked up the courage to tell him, 'Mommy's on the Naughty  List', which he was very surprised to hear!  The photographer did her best, and sent Mommy the best shot of you and Santa.

Then we went to see the Christmas lights at Oubache Trails park, which you were excited about all the new ones.  You thanked the volunteer who gave you a candy cane and wished him a Merry Christmas, and ate it while we drove to see the lights down at south 15th st.

Christmas Eve, Uncle Kyle and Aunt Jeanna came over to spend the afternoon, and you were thrilled with your presents:  A toy Jeep and toy horses.  Later, you ate dinner with them while Grandma was singing at the 6pm Christmas Eve service.  After dinner, you watched as we played Cards Against Humanity until Mommy put you to bed.

Christmas morning, you excitedly tore the wrapping off all your gifts:  Books, a Fingerling, candy in your stocking, and of course, your beloved LOL Surprise Dolls!

I forgot to mention, you are now an older sister to Alyanna, who arrived the day before Thanksgiving to your daddy and Crystal, who were married (briefly) on the Monday before.  However, as I write this, they have separated, and I do not know if you'll ever see Alyanna again.  Things are just too unstable over there.  Update:  2/9/19:  I don't know if I should even put this here, sweetie.....but we found out Baby Aly isn't even your sister.  C's ex-boyfriend had a DNA test run, and she's his child.  You probably won't even ever see her again.

Your daddy's mom, whom you call 'MeeMaw', has been in and out of the hospital this past month, in poor health.  We don't know all the details, but you were able to visit her.

Some rather unpleasant things have happened as well, and though I'm hesitant to write it, I can always go back in and edit this before I give you the website.

CPS visited you at school, and I'm told you informed her 'Daddy and MeeMaw had a fight b/c she wasn't picking the seeds out of the weed'.  The social worker seemed happy with the fact our kitchen is stocked with plenty of food; none of us smoke or do drugs; you have a safe place to live with plenty of people who love you.

She was first at Daddy's, who, I am told, was instructed to get a drug test.

We also informed her of your Aunt Hannah, who's twelve, and is making some questionable choices, in her quest for a Daddy figure.

Good news for your Uncle Brent; he seems to be turning his life around.  Time will tell.

Your daddy said he checked himself into the psych ward for a few days, however, your mother doubts this.  Some texts were sent, claiming he was going to end his life, then a few days later, Crystal claimed SHE tried to do the same, which earned her a trip to the psych ward the following week.

The only thing this caused is for Mommy to decide you were no longer allowed to spend the weekends at Daddy's.  He has come to see you; however the 1st time, he failed to show up; the 2nd, he spent more time on his phone than with you; he didn't even show up for Christmas.

As I type this, I have no idea if you'll even see him before you return to school

You WERE able to spend time with your Grandma Sally and Papa Mike on Dec 16th, when Grandma Sally was moved to Columbian Point Rehab facility.  Grandma Sally was taken to the hospital on the 9th, then moved on the 14th.  Grandma went up for a week to help take care of them.

You've had a few bouts of illness this Christmas vacation:  Fever, cold, tummy flu.  Breathing treatments in the mornings help your cough.

Love you bunches!
Grandma

1st Day of 1st Grade!

Dearest Alex,
You began school on Aug 9th, and since Vigo Elementary is under renovation, your class is at Washington Christian Center over by Gregg Park. 

Mommy is trying to instill the same homework ethic she and Uncle Kyle had, to do homework right after school, and you've been a little resistant.  But it has paid off:  You scored 100% on your 1st spelling test last week!  Accellerated Reading (AR) has begun, so you and Mommy read together.

Grandma has been gone nearly all summer, helping take care of Great-Grandma Sally, who fell June 1st.  She's getting better, but still having issues walking.  You had a wonderful weekend with her during the Watermelon Festival, and playing in the pool at the hotel

Mommy has been suspended from Perdue, and she's trying to get a Peer Review scheduled.

Daddy and Crystal have moved to Autumn Ridge; your cat Angel fathered kittens; and Daddy now works for another company.

That's all for now sweetheart:)

Love and kisses,
Grandma

You're Now Six Years Old!

My darling Alex,
It's been another amazing year, watching you grow and develop!  You turned six years old yesterday, and wore your beautiful blue and white Easter dress all day, with the exception of when Papa made chili for lunch (per your request, ha ha!).

Mommy took the day off so she could spend it with you, and helped with your dinner celebration.  Papa grilled pork chops; Mommy and Uncle Kyle fixed the vegetables.  Jeanna and Kyle gave you $6; Papa and I gave you $6 plus two books, The Monster At The End Of This Book and Another Monster At The End Of This Book.  You were happier with the cash, ha ha!  Mommy gave you a Baby Alive, which cries real tears; her nose lights up when she 'sneezes'; she talks about her heartbeat.  You also got new black tennis shoes.

We sang you Happy Birthday, then you blew out the candles on your green and blue Trolls ice cream cake from DQ, which you picked out.

You can somewhat do the splits, and you're trying desperately to learn how to do a cartwheel:)  You've almost mastered a round-off, but your legs are still bent.  I'm thinking we maybe need to get you into gymnastics; however, we've been 'thinking' this since you were two!  We have a joke that Cirq Du Solei could use you when you get older, you're so limber!

Next year, you will be at Washington Christian Center, since Vigo will be undergoing renovations.  You had a wonderful year in kindergarten, and soon you will be in 1st grade:)

You're growing taller; Mommy took you over to the Memorial last night and you can no longer pass under the, gate w/o hitting your head.  Your favorite pink PJ pants are now above your knees, and you weigh 49 pounds.  Daddy came over to see you yesterday, and you enjoyed seeing him.

Last weekend, we took you to Brown County State park to ride the horses, and were thrilled to learn that NEXT year, you'll be able to ride the trail horses with Mommy, Uncle Kyle, and Uncle Will:)  While Mommy, Kyle, Will, and Jeanna were on the trail, you and your friend Izzy played on the dirt pile near the pony corral, and dug up worms.  Afterward, we all went back to Bloomington and ate at Cracker Barrel before heading home.

Grandma Sally and Papa Mike weren't able to come this year, since Grandma Sally fell last week, and is having trouble walking.  She's getting stronger, and enjoyed talking to you on the phone yesterday.

Forgot to update some things:
-Ariel ended up spending only one week of school here before returning home.  One day when you're older, we'll tell you about it.  In the meantime, she's expecting a baby July 16th, a boy named Phoenix.

-Daddy is now working at Wendy's.

-Mommy is now in a Lead position at Perdue Turkey plant in Washington, and works 2-10pm.

Love you bunches, sweetheart:)  I'll try to write again soon.

Love,
Grandma

1st Month of Kindergarten!

Dearest Alex,
So far, you enjoy school!  Mommy gets you up in the morning and drops you off, then picks you up.  So far, you've done well, with only a slight amount of trouble talking when you're supposed to be listening.  Mommy had a chat with you, and this past week, you've stayed on green:)  Good girl!

Your mommy had the opposite problem; she wanted to be the class Monitor, and would report to her teacher who wasn't doing their work, or who was trying to talk.

You also had a boy try to kiss you.  When your mommy was your age, she punched the boy in the chest and was sent to the principal's office.  I'm told you smacked his arm, but no one reported it to the teacher.

Your daddy is enjoying his job at the Farbest Turkey Plant:)

I don't think I reported Grandpa Rick was hospitalized with a heart attack earlier.  He's doing well now.

In other family news, we had our family pictures taken for church, and while you were a little shy at first, you soon warmed up to the photographer and were a little ham!  I love the picture taken of you snuggled against Mommy:)

We've also begun work again on cleaning out the Green House, and have cleared the room that's caving in.  Papa and I hauled 900 lbs of scrap, including 2 stoves and 8 electric motors to the scrapyard.  Hopefully the next time I write, we'll have cleared out another room.

Hugs and kisses!
Love,
Grandma

Your 1st Voice Mail Message:)

Dearest Alex,
I know I said I would post again at Christmas, but so much has happened, this blog got away from me again.

At Christmas, you were thrilled with your Peppa Pig play sets and redecorated Grandma's shelves with them, along with your Leggos.

We battled lice again, and finally in April, Mommy had had enough and cut not only your hair, but hers as well.  Our lice problem disappeared, and once again you had perfect attendance at school.  You scored at the top of your class, so Mommy made plans to enroll you in Vigo Elementary in the fall.  This way, Papa could drop off Uncle Will at the middle school, then circle back to drop you off.  No one would have to travel out of their way.

This summer, you have enjoyed the company of Ariel and Jaevon again, and you and Ariel have spent many wonderful hours together, watching The Troll Movie and putting on make up.  We celebrated your birthday at Brown County State Park and you went horseback riding for the 1st time.  You weren't old enough to ride with Mommy, Uncle Kyle, Uncle Will, Ariel, or Jaevon on the trail ride, but Papa put you on a pony and you and your friend Zeke were able to ride three laps around the ring.  Afterward, we had dinner at The Nashville House.

Mommy even took a new summer job, taking care of seven horses, since her hours were 10am-2pm, which left plenty of time for her to spend with you.

Ariel is going to live with us for the next six months on a trial basis, and go to school at Lincoln.  If her grades don't improve, then she'll go back home to her mom.  You were thrilled at that news over the 4th of July:)

I've been up in Lafayette most of July, helping Grandma Sally and Papa Mike with their vacation to Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada to see Great-Aunt Wendy, Great-Uncle Chris, and your cousins David and Rachel.  I had to go to Chicago  to put Grandma Sally on the plane and then again a week later to help her get home.  You missed me so much, you left the sweetest voice mail message:

My name is Alex.  I want to call my grandma, please.

It's still saved on my phone, so I can play it for you when I get home in a few days.

Love,
Grandma

New Home!

Dearest Alex,

We've now moved into our new home at 205 Nicholas St in Vincennes, and you are thrilled to have your own bed across the room from Mommy, though you wake up snuggled next to her every morning.

A lot has happened in the past year:  Reagan Winkles came to live with us in October 2015, but returned home to Arkansas this past November.  She called you 'Princess' and would often bring you treats after work.

For Christmas last year, Mommy got you a tricycle, which you happily pedaled around the house until the weather warmed up.  Your boundaries outside were Harlie's house to the right and the tree just past Chris's to the left.

You started Head Start in January, and enjoyed it, and Daddy began 'helping' with your class every Mon-Tues-Wed.  I use 'helping' lightly, because you stopped paying attention to the teacher, and everyone was thrilled when Daddy's schedule changed and you went to his house on the weekends.  Still, you ended your first semester on a good note, and looked forward to returning in the fall.

Over the summer 2016, you enjoyed visits with Ariel and Jaevon; met Taco, Mommy's boyfriend Mike's dachshund, and was thrilled when Mommy allowed you to go play with Harlie and Chloe as long as Uncle Will went with you:)

In May, we went to Aunt Linda and Uncle Mike Keser's 50th anniversary party.  Papa Mike McIntire met us at the door, picked you up, said, "Okay, Alex is here; the party can start now.  The rest of you can leave..."  Ha ha!!!  We also met Papa Mike and Grandma Sally at TGI Friday's for your 4th birthday celebration.

School began in September, and you have had perfect attendance now for 3 straight months.  Grandma joined you for Grandparents' Day, and we ate a delicious lunch of chili (Mommy had said we were having pizza; otherwise, Papa would have gone also!).

In October, Grandma and Papa took possession of the new house and began painting.  You enjoyed helping Mommy set up your new room, though when we first showed it to you, you exclaimed, "But where will we SLEEP?"

I explained we would be moving over your bed, and you looked relieved!

For Thanksgiving, Mike joined us for dinner, and you enjoyed sitting on the cedar chest, since our dining room was full of boxes, and we'd not moved the table over yet.  For regular meals, we crowd around a tiny table in the living room, and your 'chair' is the step-stool.  No more high chair for Alex!

Likewise, in the Jeep, you use a booster seat, but in Papa's truck, you still have to sit in your car seat.

You've said some cute things over the past month, and as soon as I consult with Mommy, I'll post them here.

Today you came home and announced you'd kissed your sweetie Jace on the lips, and that he'd kissed you back!

Your mommy punched the first boy who tried to kiss her....Bennie Large, in the 1st grade.  Ask her about that sometime:)

Til Christmas....

Love,
Grandma

Another Milestone!

Dearest Alexandria,

This entire week, I've watched you wake up, go sit on the potty, and proudly show us your DRY diaper.  You have worn your Sofia The First and Frozen panties, and have had nearly NO accidents during the day.

We are so proud of you, darling!  Being potty-trained is the first step toward being able to attend preschool:)  In fact, your mother and I took the paperwork down yesterday, to see about getting you enrolled in Early Head Start.

Your mother quit her job at Steak-n-Shake, due to the payroll not fully paying her every week, and is now working nights at Lewis Bakery.  You've been spending 'quality time' with Mommy while she sleeps, tucked up beside her in bed while you watch NetFlix.

Earlier this month, Mommy trimmed your hair to just at your shoulders and you look so much better! I know it has to be cooler than having all that hair down your back:)

Love,
Grandma

You Are Now THREE!

Dearest Alex,
So much has happened over the course of two years!  I apologize for neglecting this site.

2013:
You were our little bumble bee for Halloween, and at Christmas, you received not one, not two, but FIVE play cell phones!  You enjoyed your baby dolls and charmed your Aunt Linda.

2014:
Your hair grew longer; your vocabulary increased.  We took you to Madison, In, and you enjoyed the waterfront with your mommy, Uncle Will, and Papa.  For Easter, you looked adorable in your white dress, and Mommy bought you a pink toy 4-wheeler:)

Your birthday was celebrated at O Charley's in Lafayette, but you fell asleep before we got to Columbian Park, so no zoo for you.

In August, you spent time with your cousins Rachel and David, first in Aunt Linda's pool, then at Red Lobster and Grandma Sally's house.

For Halloween, we dressed you as Sofia the First, one of your many favorite Disney heroines.  You also love to watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Doc McStuffins, and of course, Sofia.  You also love the movies Coraline, Monsters University, and Princess and the Frog.

Grandma home schooled your Uncle Will this year, so you got to go on many outings, including the skating rink and the pumpkin patch!  You enjoyed the corn maze and walking in a piece of culvert on a track; you laughed whenever you'd fall down while with Mommy, Uncle Will, or even Grandma.  We had to practically drag you away from the boat races; you loved pumping the water!

Mommy went to work at Steak-n-Shake, and you love to go eat french fries and cheese:)

In December, we took you to Cousin Trudy's house, where you helped play Santa, plus played with Zoey and Melody, even playing with the remote control snake!  Grandpa Mike got down on the floor with you and played with the little people and Weebles Airport.

2015:
In May, you 'graduated' to sleeping with Mommy in her 'big bed', and in June, celebrated your 3rd birthday at La Caretta with Great-Grandma Sally, Papa Mike, Ariel, and Jaevon, who were here for the summer.

Mommy had bought a Jeep in February, and you soon enjoyed going 'muddin' with her!  In fact, one night, you came out wearing your Sofia the First nightgown and blue jeans.  When Papa asked about your jeans, you looked him in the eye and said, "Papa, there will be MUD!"

In July, you enjoyed the fireworks, and in August, you were able to go to the pool twice!  The first time, we took you to a family event at Rainbow Beach, and after Uncle Will took you down the kiddie slide, you were hooked!  You also loved spraying people with the water nozzle! A week later, we celebrated Ariel and Jaevon's birthdays, and went to Aunt Liz's pool.  When two girls were finished playing with their foam Noodle, they let you play with it, and soon you were propelling yourself all over the 4 and 5-foot areas:)  You also made friends, and had a good time.

You do see your father twice a week, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.  He takes you to the park and to the library, to check out movies to watch.

Grandma became a cantor at church this summer, and the first time I led the singing, I'm told you called my name every time I stood up!  This past Sunday, you took my hand and said, "Grandma, you have to go sing!"  I quietly told you it was NOT my turn!  Later, I took you with the other 3-5 year olds for your special lesson, and you listened and were cooperative.

That's all for now, sweetheart.  Hopefully Grandma will do better at updating this more often!

Love,
Grandma

Vacation Fun

Dearest Alex,
It was so much fun taking you to Colorado with us!  You were such a good baby, only fussing when you'd absolutely reached your limit when it came to being confined to a car seat.  We tried to stop every two hours or so to let you get out and run, or have you diaper changed, and during the six days on the road, you did remarkably well.

You also tolerated the altitude better than your Mommy; you charmed everyone you met; and entertained your great-grandmother.

You were unimpressed with both water parks, since the water temperature was a little cold to your liking.

You watched as your mommy raced your uncles around the go-cart track; got doused by both uncles in the Water Wars and Bumper Boats; and enjoyed a train ride even though rain fell during the last part of the ride.  But later we went back and you watched everyone play Mini-Golf.

You ate Mac-N-Cheese nearly everywhere we went.

And had a lovefest with your Uncle Kyle when we stopped for lunch at Pizza Hut on the way back.  Yes, there is video, lol!

Hopefully one day we'll get to take you back so you can remember it.

Love,
Grandma

One Month Already!

Dearest Alex "Lexie',
It's hard to believe a month has already passed!  You went to the doctor yesterday and your weight is up to 8 lbs, 10 oz!  Mommy didn't catch your weight; I must remind her to pay closer attention.  I've got your pictures in my 'Brag Book', and we're taking you your Great-Aunt Liz's wedding to your soon-to-be Great-Uncle Bryan on Sat.  Then on Sunday, we're taking you to St. Martin's Church in Martinsville and showing you off to our friends up there.  I hope Fr. John is still there.

Your head control continues to improve, and we've finally figured out to feed you in small doses.  Otherwise, you spit up buckets, esp all over Grandma, lol!  And most importantly, you've won over your grandpa!  Good girl!

You've been a joy to take to lunch, or hang out with your grandma in the mornings or late evenings.  Daddy has a job now, and works 11pm-7am at GenTron, where they make refrigerator parts.  So far, he's been on the job for three weeks and doing well.

I forgot to as your mom if she tried to put you in the pool yesterday.  Probably not; I tried dipping your mom's toes in the pool when SHE was a month old; she didn't like it.  Squealed and curled up her feet, so back to the stroller for her.  Uncle Kyle was 2.5 at the time and loved spending the afternoon at the pool.

We just survived a hot stretch.  Temps were in the hundreds for nearly two weeks.  It seems funny to say 'Thank God it's in the 80's!'

If I'm repeating myself, I apologize.  You rolled over at the two week mark, and Grandma caught it all on video.  Uncle Kyle and Mommy were very happy to witness it!

That's all the news for now, darling girl.  Til next time:)

Love,
Grandma

You Are Here!

Dear Alex,
In all the excitement of last week, I forgot to post again.

Last Thursday, June 7th at 9pm, Dr. Baker decided your mommy had had enough 'torture' and decided to assemble the c-section team.  You were born at 10:50pm, and I snapped your first picture when they carried you to the nursery.  I watched the nurse give you a bath; you clearly did not like it, although you quieted down when she washed and dried your back, and again when she washed your hair.  You were born with a full head of dark hair, which we think should lighten up.

At first glance, I thought you looked like your mommy, but by the time we could hold you, we could tell you had your daddy's chin dimple; his eyes; and possibly his nose and ears.

You are such a good baby!  You hardly cry; you fuss a bit, but no prolonged screaming fits.  And you don't mind being passed around.

We had your photo taken before you left the hospital, and I've also shot several short videos of you interacting with your mommy, daddy, and grandpa.

You are now a week old and this week has flown by.  I'm looking forward to taking you to your first baseball game; to the Farmer's Market; and to church on Sunday.

You are holding up your head fairly well, and you turn your head to see who's talking or walking around.  You also finally got the hang of nursing, so bottle-feedings aren't so frequent anymore.

Til your next milestone...

Love,
Grandma

The Waiting Game

Dear Alex,
On Monday, your mother was still dilated at 2cm and since Dr. Baker is leaving for vacation soon, he asked you mommy if she'd like you to be born today, June 7th.  She happily agreed, so we arrived this morning at 7am.  The doctor broke Mommy's water around 9am, and it's been a slow progression.  Mommy requested pain meds around noon, and an epidural around 1:30.  It is now 7pm, ten hours later, and she's finally dilated to 4cm.  Looks as if your Uncle Kyle may get his wish; he wants you to be born on the 8th, which is his half birthday.

Your father and I are enjoying a quiet day; he's on your mom's laptop and I've been reading.  I bought breakfast this morning (Burger King) and your Grandma Sandi gave your daddy money for lunch and dinner.  I left for about 90 minutes this afternoon, to retrieve my phone and Kindle chargers, and to eat lunch myself (McDonalds).  Not sure what I'll eat for dinner.  Your mommy's had a popcicle and some jello.  She's napping at the moment, which is good.  She only got 2 hours of sleep last night, due to having a long talk with Uncle Kyle.

Everyone is awaiting your arrival sweetie:)  And after you're born, Grandpa and I will finally go get your stroller/car seat!

Your crib arrived; no word yet on when it will be set up.

Hoping your entry into the world is smooth and effortless:)

Love,
Grandma

Miss Alex?

Dear little one:

Last week, we saw another picture of you, and early indications point to your being Alexandria Nicole.  It also appears you've inherited your father's features, but it's still early yet.  Doctor says you now weigh half a pound are doing great.

Your mother caught the stomach flu the other day, but I think is now finally able to keep food down.  I just pray you develop into a healthy child, despite your mother's nutritional ailments.

Until next time,
Love,
Grandma

Holiday Happenings

Dear little one....
I am so sorry to report your great-great-grandmother passed away on Christmas Day, before we even got the chance to let her know you were on the way.  Granny Jean Dilly McIntire had fallen and cracked her pelvis early in December, and contracted pneumonia a week before Christmas.  She got to spend Christmas with Jesus, your great-great-grandfather Norman, and your great-great-Aunt Julie, who passed in 1994 and 1993 respectively.

I will admit, your parents went their separate ways the first part of December, but before Christmas, they were communicating again.  They are just babies themselves, but know your grandma has every intention of doing what's best for YOU and your MOTHER.

Your mother is still losing weight and having problems keeping food down, or eating very little.  We saw the doctor last week and heard your strong heartbeat.  We'll be seeing you again tomorrow, and finding out if you're to be named Alexandria Nicole or Anthony Edward.

Your father has moved to Rockport with his Aunt Tina, and is in his first week of working at Grandy's as a cook.  Your mother speaks to him on a regular basis, and so far the drama has been minimal.

I looked at the saved baby clothes yesterday; whether you are a boy or a girl, you will have plenty of clothing when you're born, as well as baby blankets.  We are still deciding if you'll follow your Uncle Will and sleep in a pack-n-play, or set up a crib in your mother's room.

And joy of joys....she's beginning to feel you move around!  I'm looking forward to the day when I get to feel your tiny foot against her abdomen.

I will probably write to you again in a few days.

Love,
Grandma