Jump, Jive, and Wale!!!

Daddy and Zeke

Mommy and Zeke

July has been a month full of changes and more milestones.  Zeke is 6 1/2 months old, weighs about 20 pounds, and is about 28 inches long.  He's currently cutting his top teeth, which makes for a lot of drooling and chewing on things (even his own toes!).

We have enjoyed getting to visit with friends and family.  At the beginning of the month, we went to see Sydney (my former home school student).  Syndey and her mom, Jill, have prayed for Zeke since before he was even growing in my tummy!  Sydney got to hold him, which she loved!  She remembered how she used to "tickle" him while he was in my belly!

Syndey and Zeke

Zeke finally got to meet my friend Robyn and her daughter Rane.  They have moved to California, so it was an extra special time.  Zeke loved them both!

Rane and Zeke

Gregg, Zeke, and I got to attend a baby shower to celebrate the arrival of Gabriella Joy Goodwald (our friends from our Bible study recently adopted her).  It was fun to see everyone and thank God for what he has done to bless the Goodwald family!

Me, Zeke, Elizabeth, Amy, Bella, Sarah, and Gabriella (order left to right)

The Hall family

Gregg had to travel some this month, so Zeke and I were able to spend several days with Wynna and Granddaddy.  We had a great time, and my mom was a huge help to me because I was injured and couldn't lift Zeke without experiencing pain (I'll explain more below).

Zeke loves his Wynna!

...after rolling over!

Zeke jumping in the jumperoo!

He spent hours jumping, and loved every minute of it!  We also got to see Auntie Tessa, Aunt Jami, and the girls while we were there. 

We missed celebrating Gregg's birthday with him, but travel is part of his job, and we appreciate his hard work to take care of us!  We sent some treats for him to open each day he was gone.  It wasn't the same as being together, but at least he knew we were thinking about him.

Zeke has been busy mastering the art of rolling over from his back to his front, and can sit up for about a minute at a time.  He LOVES to explore his vocal chords with high pitched squeals, various noises, and other "raspberry" sounds.  He brings joy, love, amazement, and excitement to each day. 

Unfortunately, my chiropractor accidentally separated the cartilage where my ribs and sternum connect.  It was extremely painful and led to a trip to the ER for me.  I have struggled to pick up Zeke, so Gregg had to become my hands for a few days.  He was an amazing help, and I am incredibly thankful for him.  My mom was also able to step in (after she got back from Amarillo), which was s blessing.  I have been frustrated because I can't care for my baby the way I want to, but God has reminded me that I am not in control, and He will provide all I (and Zeke) need.  It is another hard lesson for which I am grateful!  With each trial, we grow closer as a family, and become more thankful for each day we have here on Earth.  We're blessed with the love of our Heavenly Father, each other, our son, our family, and friends.  Now that is worth celebrating...and jumping!!!

P.S. - I'm trying to upload video of Zeke jumping and rolling over, but I haven't been successful yet.  Stay tuned!!!