Sunday, December 21, 2008

Welcome Ethan and Emily


We would like to introduce the newest members of the Pickett family: Ethan David and Emily Brook, born Tuesday, Dec. 16th!!! They were a little early, but are doing great. I made it to 34 weeks exactly! Ethan was born at 12:15 pm weighing 4 lb. 5 oz. and 17 3/4 inches long. Emily was born at 12:17 weighing 4 lbs. and 17 1/4 inches long. They are both doing well. Ethan is still on a little bit of oxygen and they are both working on putting on some weight, but otherwise very healthy little babies. They will most likely be in the hospital a few more weeks. I have put some pictures up of the whole clan since it's been a while.
Luke is continuing to do well, although a little stiff lately. Unfortunately we have not been able to work with him as much with things being so crazy, but we hope to get back to it soon. The cold weather probably doesn't help either. Cody is doing great, as you can see by the pictures, he has been more eager to wear his underwear lately, which is a big step forward for him. If only we could get them to stop leaking on the floor!!! His picture is him showing off his muscles! I don't know, I think he may be a future underwear model?? LOL He is so funny these days, and such an awnry little booger! He seems to be very excited about the babies, so that's a relief. Let's hope it stays that way once they come home! Well, I better go get some rest. Take care and have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

A long overdue update

Yes, an update is LONG overdue and I apologize. Things have been crazy around here since Clint and Luke returned from China. Yes, they are home safe and sound, thank goodness. It has been so great to all be together again. I will try and post some pictures of their trip a little later, after I get everyone caught up.

So we'll start with Luke! Yes we have seen some results from his stem cell treatment! His head control has improved tremendously and his hands move with more of a purpose these days. Instead of "batting" as much, he seems to really focus and grab something. His therapists are very pleased, saying they're now doing things that they couldn't have done before. The docs in China said that we will probably see more results in 3-6 months. We are very excited and very hopeful for any more improvements. Luke and Clint adjusted back to the time that first week, which was a relief. Luke still isn't taking great naps, but the past 4 nights,(I'm afraid to say it) he has slept ALL NIGHT!!! Granted, he's had a little help with some Benadryl due to a stuffy nose, but we've given him Benadryl before and he didn't sleep this well, so keep your fingers crossed that he continues to do well.

Cody will be 3 tomorrow (Dec. 4) which is so hard to believe!! He is Mr. goofball and says the funniest things these days. He told Clint the other day "Dad, you're a nice old man!" And today he told me "Mom, don't get me all worked up" . He is quite the character these days! A little sassy, but he is 3 afterall. We are excited that he's been putting on underwear after dinner this week! It's not much, but it's a start! In other news, the past two times he's been dropped off at school he hasn't cried, woo hoo! I'm sure this makes it a little easier on his teachers. He has been talking about some of his "friends" that he plays diggers with at school as well. Cody is very happy to have Clint and Luke back. He hugs Luke every morning and says "Hi buddy" in a very sweet, high pitched tone. And Clint is back to roughing him up, which he loves! Oh yeah, and Mia, our chocolate lab is his best buddy. He is always hugging her... he told her last night "Mia, I'm so happy to see you, I love you little Mia girl", which is funny, because she weighs about 65 lbs. Too funny that little guy!

And lastly, but certainly not least, the babies in my belly are doing well. I am now 32 weeks along and was unfortunately put on bed rest 2 days after Clint came home. The babies are fine, I was having some contractions a few weeks back so my activity is now limited just to be safe. It's a bummer, but we will do whatever it takes to keep these babies safe and sound! The ultrasounds are showing that both babies have lots of hair. No surprise to those who have seen baby pictures of Cody, and especially Luke. They are moving around like crazy and the boy really likes to do dances on my bladder!

Well, hopefully you now understand why it's taken so long to do a post. We've been busy trying to line up help and just adjusting back to family life! Clint is doing an amazing job with the kids and the household duties, albeit a little frazzled sometimes, but I understand that. Myself and the kids are so lucky to have him as a husband and Daddy.

Well, I better go do some more "resting". I just wanted to remind everyone to remember the true meaning of the season. I know times are tough and stressful for so many people right now, us included, but our family has so many blessings to be thankful for this year. More than ever, we are just really looking forward to spending time with our families and rejoicing in the birh of Jesus. Have a wonderful and joyous holiday season. God Bless.

But those who hope in the LORD

will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles;

They will run and not grow weary,

they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:31