Day of Friends!

Yesterday we watched Ethan's friend, Braden.  The two boys get along so well...most of the time and just enjoy being together.  Jared is still home so he was a great entertainer for the boys and we all had a good time. 
We started the morning off playing in the basement with some blocks...

Making tunnels for the cars to go through

"Off-Roading"

2 4-wheelers make for some crazy boys!

After playing downstairs, it was time for coloring.  Both boys picked train pictures and stayed on the paper instead of the table!

Notice Braden's 2 hats...

And just look at that adorable face.  She had a good day too!

 I was a little unsure how naptime was going to go, but as you can see...success!  We were going to nap them in separate rooms, but Braden wanted to be with Ethan so there they are, and asleep.

2 Worn out boys

 The past couple days have been beautiful, so after nap we headed out to the backyard for some fun.  Jared was great with the boys...up and down the treehouse and slides, playing baseball and golf and any other outside games they could find.

Braden loves this bus.  And Ethan was happy just to ride along!

Rock Wall Fun on the Treehouse

Braden getting ready to slide.

Playing some catch with Daddy.  Have I mentioned how great it has been with Jared home this past week?!?  Sadly, he goes back to work tomorrow :(.

 After a fun filled day, Braden's mom and dad, Heather and Eric, brought dinner and stayed to enjoy it with us.  We are so lucky to have them as great friends. 

Heather meeting Nora

Eric being crazy with Braden and Ethan

 

Trick or Treat

Trick or Treat was last night in the good 'ole Village of Mt. Zion, so we suited up and headed out.  Ethan was definitely getting the hang of it after just a few houses.  He started noticing which houses didn't have lights on, and decided that they didn't have any candy left.  We started our night by walking around the circle in our new neighborhood.  Ethan got quite a haul.  Then, after a dinner intermission, we drove back to the old neighborhood to see the Neighbors.  Ethan loves going to their house and they were excited to meet Nora (who didn't seem impressed with her first Halloween). 

Our Little Pirate

The Pirate and Pink Skeleton on our way to trick or treat

"Trick or Treat" at Miss Ruth's!

Braden, the Cookie Monster with Ruth and Ethan

The Whole Cookie Monster Family

Our First Halloween with Nora!

Our 2 Skeletons.  Ethan does such a great job when he holds Nora. 

Showing off his costume change

Day of Firsts!

Nora had her first doctor's appointment this morning.  She and I headed out while Jared and Ethan stayed home to play.  The doctor was very happy with Nora's progress and weight gain.  She weighed 7 lbs 11 oz at birth and 7 lbs 2 oz when we left the hospital on Friday.  This morning, she weighed in at 7 lbs 8 oz (50th percentile) and still 20.5 in long (90th percentile).  We go back next week for a follow-up for Nora and Ethan's 2 1/2 year checkup. 

Dr. Bassnet and Nora

After we got home from the doctor's office, lunch was approaching.  I've been craving some Mexican and it's beautiful out so we decided to head out for lunch.  Nora slept the whole time and Ethan enjoyed his chips & sauce and taco.

On our way out after a successful 1st outing as a family of 4!

1st Few Days at Home

We've been home now for 3 days and we're doing great.  Nora is adjusting to her new home and Ethan is adjusting to his new baby sister.  He is also really enjoying having Daddy home (we all are)! 
A few things about our 5 day old Nora...
She likes to eat!  She is eating every 2-3 hours during the day and does great at night eating every 3-4 hours. 
She is gradually staying awake during the day more often.  I love to see her eyes!
She is growing like crazy already.  We had her first doctor appt this morning (more on that later)
Her brother likes to 'Say Hi' to her and 'pet' her on the head.  She doesn't mind :).
She hates having her diaper and clothes changed (not that I blame her)
She is so sweet and makes us feel so blessed every time we look at her!

Since this blog is also my scrapbook, I've got a lot of pictures to share.  Enjoy!

Pop met Nora on Friday before leaving the hospital.  I'm pretty sure he's a fan :)

The 4 of us loading up the van to head home

We're home! Thanks Abby for the Welcome sign and balloons.

Our attempt at a family shot at the front door

Nora in her new home

Ethan being silly with Daddy's glasses

Uncle Dustin and Amanda came up on Saturday to meet Nora and play with Ethan.

Open eyes time

Enjoying puzzle time with Daddy

Grandpa was hunting all week and came up with Grandma Karen on Sunday to meet Nora.  Again...I think he's a fan!

Grandpa and Ethan

Our percussionist in action...

She should be a heavy sleeper with the wild brother she has!

Baby Nora

We are home with our wonderful family of 4 and enjoying every minute.  I have a few more pictures from the hospital and coming home to share. 

Ethan meeting Nora for the first time.  He wasn't sure what to think at first...

But he warmed up quickly. Holding her with Daddy's help.

Our Sleeping Beauty

Getting ready to go home!

Being such a great big brother

The Collier Family of 4!

I'll be working on more soon.  Just wanted to share these photos.

Birthday Celebrations

Nora Diane arrived this morning at 11:58. When the dr came in, she assured me that this was going to be an AM baby. And around 11:50, I told her that she had better hurry and we made it! Nora is perfect. She is so sweet and, call me biased, beautiful! I think she may already be wrapped around her Daddy's finger. Who now shares his birthday with her. Happy birthday to you both! She weighed in at 7 lbs 11 oz and 20.5 in long. And has beautiful brown hair.
Grandma Terri, Grandma Karen and Abby all came to visit this afternoon along with Ethan. He wasn't too sure what to think at first but eventually warmed up to his baby sister. Enjoy a few pictures from Jared and Nora's birthday!