I rarely post on the blog about Katie's health issues, but today will be an exception. Katie had another MRI this past Friday. For the 3rd time in less than 17 months, she was put under anesthesia - definitely NOT my favorite part of motherhood. We haven't heard anything official from the doctor yet, but Matt read her chart when he got into work tonight. GREAT NEWS - absolutely normal MRI. I'm so grateful that I couldn't wait to share the information. 
On a totally different subject, Katie's getting ready for the next snow storm to hit Richmond which is expected to start tomorrow night. Thanks Rob, Kat and Claire for the hat and gloves. Kat, I don't know how, but you picked out a hat that she will actually keep on her head! And the gloves stayed on longer than most....
Due to the snowstorm that hit Viriginia on Christmas Night, Matt, Katie and I had to delay our usual trip to the farm which was planned for December 26th. Instead, we went to see Ganny Barnes at the Chastane Home, her new residence (or not so new since this is the 2nd winter she's spent there). 
I know its not fair to play favorites, but I can't help myself. Christmas 2010 is the best I've had in several years. Last year, my father suffered a stroke on December 26th and we spent that night and the remaining several days at various hospitals. Christmas 2008 we were hoping and praying that I wouldn't lose Katie as we were having several complications. Maybe its the experiences of the last couple years that have made me appreciate having my family here, and relatively healthy (a few exceptions to this list in 2010). Or maybe its the fact that having a child changes how you see Christmas and the blessings in your life. Whatever the reason....this one has been a favorite. Now to the good stuff - the pictures of Katie. I know you all don't come here just to read my babble - ha!
On Sunday, Matt and I got Katie outside to play in the snow for a little while. I had been debating whether or not to buy Katie a snowsuit. Then I found her cousin Brayden's old snow bibs in a box of hand-me downs. Even though they are navy blue - and boys clothes - I couldn't care less. The bibs fit her, keep her warm and dry - and have saved me a little money. Thanks Angie and Brayden!!
Ah, the tradition of visiting Santa! Who doesn't have at least one photo from their childhood of you sitting on the Big Guy's knee in your Christmas best clothes? Last year Katie was about 4 months old when we went to see Santa so she was completely indifferent. This year we weren't sure what to expect. Let's just say, it didn't go quite how I'd hoped. 
You would think that 16 months into parenthood, I would be an expert on changing Katie's diaper, but I'm not. Some days you can say "Katie, do we need to change your diaper?" and she will go get a diaper and lay down in front of you ready to be changed. Other days its a major battle - usually because she doesn't want to be still. On the bad days, I have found that toys are a great distraction technique. Though toys only last so long. 
This past weekend before church, Matt, Katie and I did a little photo shoot for the Christmas Card. There were some good shots, some bad shots, and some funny shots. We played one of Katie's favorite games, called "how many ornaments can I take off the tree while mom, dad, and nana are viewing the digital photos?" Which reminds me....I probably should put a gate around the Christmas tree. However, we are working on the "look, but don't touch" concept. Katie still looks AND touches. 
