I started this blog when we were living in Northern California. Tim and I were lonely and so sad that family and friends would not be around to watch Hannah grow. My blog became not only a way to share her life with you, but it was also a fun and therapeutic hobby for me. But, all good things must come to an end so I am leaving you with one final post. I couldn’t think of anything more fitting than a letter to my precious girl. Thank you for taking the time to read my ramblings, catch up on Hannah, and participate in her journey of life. Hannah, don’t you worry, Mommy also has and will continue to create your scrapbook, memory book, life calendar book, and video footage so you are covered little one. And for my loyal readers, when I shared with some of you that I was ending this blog, many of you asked me not to, commenting on how much you enjoyed it. So to you, I say, do not fret, if and when baby # 2 is on the way, I will pick up where I left off. After all, I am a second child and it would not be fair if they didn’t receive the same treatment Hannah did. So this is not goodbye, but see you later. Don’t delete TatumFamilyNews from your favorites just yet because I will be back. Thank you all for loving, supporting, spoiling, and caring for Hannah. She is truly a blessed little girl.
My Sweet Hannah Grace on your first birthday,
These past 12 months you have brought more joy to Mommy and Daddy than we can express. You are our little miracle and greatest blessing. Sure there were days I wondered if I would ever feel rested again, but looking back I can’t believe how fast the time has passed. It feels like yesterday you were simply a prayer and a dream that I wondered would ever come true. Then you grew in my tummy and I can so easily remember feeling you move and wondering when I would meet you. The day you were born is so clear in my mind and the memories of January 5, 2011 always bring a smile to my face. But it has been 365 days whether I believe it or not and I have a one year old. In the life of a one year old, this past year has been a roller coaster for you. You moved from San Jose to Orange County. You have been seen by six pediatricians, four neonatologists, three plastic surgeons, two ear nose and throat specialists, an orthodontist, neurologist, social worker and countless nurses. You have undergone two surgeries requiring anesthesia, and have spent four nights in a hospital (six if you count your birth). And don’t worry Mommy never left your side. Through these times you have demonstrated bravery and strength. In your first year you have learned to explore the world. You rolled over, sat up, crawled, fed yourself, babbled, waved, clapped, pointed, understood simple commands and words, smiled, and laughed. You have brought more joy into your daddy and my life then we could even put into words. Some of your favorite things to do this past year include: be with Mommy, look at books, point to pictures, open cupboards, put things in containers, make farting noises, splash in the bathtub, watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, play chase and play with toys. You love dogs, baby dolls, balls, music, food, and being silly. You dance anytime you hear music, look to Mommy for reassurance, get into anything and everything, and without fail smile at me with your arms raised up each and every morning and that, my sweet angel is worth the world to me. You are complemented daily on your beautiful big brown eyes, squishy cheeks, and precious smile. You are curious, smart, stubborn, passionate about your wants, lovable, sweet, beautiful, strong, fun, silly, and brave. So if there is ever a time in your life you feel down or in need of encouragement, read this letter and remind yourself that you are all of these things and always have been. From the minute I held you in my arms, I knew you were one of a kind. If you can do all this in one year of life, I am eager to see what God has in store for the rest of your life. You are my sweet angel, and no one loves you as much as mommy. No matter what you do, say, think or feel, I will always be here for you standing by your side and proud to be your mommy. There is no greater blessing. So in the words of Tim McGraw, “Go on take on this whole world, but to me you’ll always be my little girl.”
I love you and Happy Birthday
Mommy
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Hot Diggity Dog!
Hot Diggity Dog! Hannah had a wonderful day at her first Birthday Party. We had a Minnie Mouse theme and loved celebrating with loved ones. The room turned out better than I expected with the help of Granny, Nana, and Auntie Laura. There were beautiful pink flowers, "Hannah" confetti, Minnie Mouse decor, and lots of balloons that Hannah enjoyed. Hannah wore an adorable pink tutu and personalized shirt, with Minnie Mouse ears that she kept on at least long enough for a few pictures. We had sandwiches, fruit, pasta salad, chips, and a very yummy cake made with love by Auntie (although Hannah still was not a fan). She did enjoy eating the pasta salad and fruit. When Hannah first came into her party room she instantly noticed the balloons which made me happy because I think she really did have fun and know it was all for her. We lucked out with a very beautiful warm sunny day and had a great turn out of loved ones. Now we just need to find a place to store all her toys.
The Birthday Girl
The Birthday Girl
Friday, January 6, 2012
1 Year Check Up
Today Hannah had her one year old check up. We met with a new Dr. and loved her. She had to get three shots and handled it like a champ. Hannah weighs 19 lbs. 8 oz. which is the 25% for a girl her age. The Dr. said she's a skinny little thing, but still totally healthy. Her height is 29 inches which is smack dab average (50%). Her head size is still above average at 75%. The Dr. went through all the milestones with us and Hannah has met all but one...the sippy cup. She said to try a straw because some kids never use sippys and go straight to a straw. We will try that next week. I was also glad to hear her say to never give the sippy as the only option. Offer it and let her explore/play with it for 20 minutes than feed her like normal. I'm sure Hannah was glad to hear that. The next thing to work on according to the Dr. is saying 6 words by age 18 months. Hannah is allowed to eat anything now except for Shellfish. I wasn't really planning on cooking her up a lobster dinner anyway so no loss there. She said be careful still with nuts, but Hannah has already enjoyed peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with no problem. Hannah is healthy and happy and that is the best news.
Hannah's newest accomplishment is playing ball. She rolls it to you and then waits for you to roll it back and tries to catch it. Hannah likes to throw the ball at you more than roll it when it is her turn. I think Tim loves seeing her wind up and let it fly. Who knows she may be an athlete one day. It's really cute to play with her and see her understanding turn taking. She loves to cheer when it's her turn. Hannah can also point to and identify a few objects either in her room or in books. Some of the ones she knows are "ball, Mickey Mouse, dog, baby, book, elephant, monkey, and pig." I'd say she has about an 80-90% accuracy rate with these words. Since I'm bragging a bit on how smart she is, I will also inform you that if you leave the bathroom door open she sneaks in there and loves to splash her hands in the toilet bowl water. Yep that's my little princess and I love her.
Hannah's newest accomplishment is playing ball. She rolls it to you and then waits for you to roll it back and tries to catch it. Hannah likes to throw the ball at you more than roll it when it is her turn. I think Tim loves seeing her wind up and let it fly. Who knows she may be an athlete one day. It's really cute to play with her and see her understanding turn taking. She loves to cheer when it's her turn. Hannah can also point to and identify a few objects either in her room or in books. Some of the ones she knows are "ball, Mickey Mouse, dog, baby, book, elephant, monkey, and pig." I'd say she has about an 80-90% accuracy rate with these words. Since I'm bragging a bit on how smart she is, I will also inform you that if you leave the bathroom door open she sneaks in there and loves to splash her hands in the toilet bowl water. Yep that's my little princess and I love her.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Happy Birthday!
Happy Birthday to my darling Hannah Grace. One year ago you made Mommy's dream come true and everyday since has been a joy. We celebrated by spending the day at Disneyland. We had so much fun, but it was an exhausting day. It's late now, but I just wouldn't feel right if I didn't post on your birthday. In the morning, Tim and I gave Hannah our gifts. Her big gift was a Disney Princess ride on scooter that plays music, lights up, and has a toy wand. She really likes pushing it across the floor and making the sounds go off, but she is a bit unsure about riding on it. Hannah always has been a bit on the cautious side. We then jumped in the car and headed off to the happiest place on earth.
We spent about 6 hours at Disneyland and Hannah did great. I was worried since her first nap was about 30 minutes in the car and her 2nd was in the stroller (only to be woken up after a measly 30 minutes because Tim and I were ready to go on more rides. I think she really liked the day. She loved people watching and waved to everyone she saw. The tram ride from the parking lot to the entrance was a highlight because you are packed in tight and Hannah loved all the attention from the people around us. Once inside she got her special Birthday Button and was very observant pointing to all of her surroundings. Her very first ride was Small World. This was also her favorite of the day. It is really long which is nice and the lights, music, and movement made for a very one year old friendly environment. We got to sit in the front of the boat so Hannah saw everything and again was very cautious making sure to hold on to the rail. We then ventured to Toon Town and toured Mickey Mouse's House. He has these animated chickens that make noises and Hannah loved them so much we had to stand at laugh at them for a good five minutes. Finally we got to meet Mickey Mouse. No surprise here, Hannah LOVED him. She kept grabbing his noise and could barely wait her turn. She was trying to leap out of my arms in the line, and was pointing saying "dada." This was the only character she liked. We also met Tigger and Pooh Bear. She cried and held on to Mommy and Daddy for dear life with both. (Santa trauma may have resurfaced). After meeting lots of character friends, we went on the Winnie the Pooh ride and Jungle Cruise. Hannah's last ride was the Dumbo flying adventure that she went on with her Daddy and had so much fun flying through the air. We are so happy to have passes and can't wait to take her again and try new rides. It was a very fun way to celebrate her 1st Birthday. I think Hannah knew she was special today! Oh I almost forgot, as we were leaving the park, Tim and I noticed that Hannah finally has her bottom two middle teeth. They are had to see, but if you pull her lip down, there they are. Yeah!
We finished the day with Granny and Grandpa where Hannah was given a special gold baby bracelet that my Granny bought for me when I was one. I also made her a cupcake as a special dessert. Hannah enjoyed the Birthday song, but was not a fan of the cupcake. Hannah doesn't like chocolate? Is she really my daughter? She really had no interest in trying it and when I tried to feed her a piece she cringed and closed her eyes. I felt so bad that I gave her Cheerios instead and she enjoyed those. Hannah is such a good healthy eater that I think she just isn't used to sweets, but I am confident she will be a choco-haulic soon enough. It does after all run in her genes.
It was a strange feeling laying my little girl down for bed tonight and reflecting on her first year of life. It brings on a lot of emotion for me, but more than anything I am just so proud to be her mommy. Sweet dreams my little one year old angel and don't grow up too fast.
I know there are a lot of pictures today, but I'm aloud it is her Birthday:
Opening presents from Mommy and Daddy
Disneyland
First ride: Small World
Dumbo with Daddy
Meeting Mickey
Enjoying her Birthday Song, but not the cake
Leave it to Granny! (my friends are not surprised by this at all, they always joke how Deb knows how to shop)...Now if only Hannah could learn you don't eat the little blue box. Check out the little bracelet on her arm, that was mine when I was her age.
We spent about 6 hours at Disneyland and Hannah did great. I was worried since her first nap was about 30 minutes in the car and her 2nd was in the stroller (only to be woken up after a measly 30 minutes because Tim and I were ready to go on more rides. I think she really liked the day. She loved people watching and waved to everyone she saw. The tram ride from the parking lot to the entrance was a highlight because you are packed in tight and Hannah loved all the attention from the people around us. Once inside she got her special Birthday Button and was very observant pointing to all of her surroundings. Her very first ride was Small World. This was also her favorite of the day. It is really long which is nice and the lights, music, and movement made for a very one year old friendly environment. We got to sit in the front of the boat so Hannah saw everything and again was very cautious making sure to hold on to the rail. We then ventured to Toon Town and toured Mickey Mouse's House. He has these animated chickens that make noises and Hannah loved them so much we had to stand at laugh at them for a good five minutes. Finally we got to meet Mickey Mouse. No surprise here, Hannah LOVED him. She kept grabbing his noise and could barely wait her turn. She was trying to leap out of my arms in the line, and was pointing saying "dada." This was the only character she liked. We also met Tigger and Pooh Bear. She cried and held on to Mommy and Daddy for dear life with both. (Santa trauma may have resurfaced). After meeting lots of character friends, we went on the Winnie the Pooh ride and Jungle Cruise. Hannah's last ride was the Dumbo flying adventure that she went on with her Daddy and had so much fun flying through the air. We are so happy to have passes and can't wait to take her again and try new rides. It was a very fun way to celebrate her 1st Birthday. I think Hannah knew she was special today! Oh I almost forgot, as we were leaving the park, Tim and I noticed that Hannah finally has her bottom two middle teeth. They are had to see, but if you pull her lip down, there they are. Yeah!
We finished the day with Granny and Grandpa where Hannah was given a special gold baby bracelet that my Granny bought for me when I was one. I also made her a cupcake as a special dessert. Hannah enjoyed the Birthday song, but was not a fan of the cupcake. Hannah doesn't like chocolate? Is she really my daughter? She really had no interest in trying it and when I tried to feed her a piece she cringed and closed her eyes. I felt so bad that I gave her Cheerios instead and she enjoyed those. Hannah is such a good healthy eater that I think she just isn't used to sweets, but I am confident she will be a choco-haulic soon enough. It does after all run in her genes.
It was a strange feeling laying my little girl down for bed tonight and reflecting on her first year of life. It brings on a lot of emotion for me, but more than anything I am just so proud to be her mommy. Sweet dreams my little one year old angel and don't grow up too fast.
I know there are a lot of pictures today, but I'm aloud it is her Birthday:
Opening presents from Mommy and Daddy
Disneyland
First ride: Small World
Dumbo with Daddy
Meeting Mickey
Enjoying her Birthday Song, but not the cake
Leave it to Granny! (my friends are not surprised by this at all, they always joke how Deb knows how to shop)...Now if only Hannah could learn you don't eat the little blue box. Check out the little bracelet on her arm, that was mine when I was her age.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Happy New Year!
It's 2012 and this very time last year I started having bad back pain. Shortly after, I knew Hannah was on her way. And at 1:04pm tomorrow I will be the proud Mommy of a one year old. We rung in the New Year with the Tatum family which even included some St. Louis family. Hannah got to meet Tim's cousin's baby girl Julianna who is exactly 10 months younger. And of course she had fun with her cousins Weston and Zane. Unfortunately Hannah got cranky and had to go to bed. She didn't even make it to New York New Year. I followed suit shortly after, but Tim celebrated at midnight on behalf of all three of us. 2011 ended on a happy note with the birth of beautiful and healthy baby Ava. What a fun and memorable New Year's Eve.
2011 was a wonderful year. Tim and I received the greatest blessing of Hannah and January 5, 2011 will forever be the happiest day of my life. With Hannah's arrival, 2011 obviously brought happiness, laughter, tears, challenges, fears, sleepless nights, selflessness, anxiety, a lot of diaper changing, and the recognition of a love so deep that it hurts. Tim started a new job, I quit a job, and started a new job, we moved (shocker), and shared many wonderful moments with friends and family. My hope for 2012 is to cherish everyday (exciting or not) because wow a year goes fast. What will the New Year bring to the Tatums? Well I can't predict the future but I'm thinking/hoping a successful surgery for Tim, dare I say another move (hopefully this one comes with mortgage papers), Hannah will be walking and talking (who knows maybe even using a sippy cup), and God willing maybe a little brother or sister on the way for Hannah. I also pray for an opportunity to see Tyler at some point. Today Hannah and I watched as he went through the airport security check for London and I'm not sure when I will see him next. He loves Hannah so much and while I couldn't be more proud of him he will be dearly missed.
Thank you 2011 and Hello 2012.
Hannah tried but held the noise maker the wrong way
2011 was a wonderful year. Tim and I received the greatest blessing of Hannah and January 5, 2011 will forever be the happiest day of my life. With Hannah's arrival, 2011 obviously brought happiness, laughter, tears, challenges, fears, sleepless nights, selflessness, anxiety, a lot of diaper changing, and the recognition of a love so deep that it hurts. Tim started a new job, I quit a job, and started a new job, we moved (shocker), and shared many wonderful moments with friends and family. My hope for 2012 is to cherish everyday (exciting or not) because wow a year goes fast. What will the New Year bring to the Tatums? Well I can't predict the future but I'm thinking/hoping a successful surgery for Tim, dare I say another move (hopefully this one comes with mortgage papers), Hannah will be walking and talking (who knows maybe even using a sippy cup), and God willing maybe a little brother or sister on the way for Hannah. I also pray for an opportunity to see Tyler at some point. Today Hannah and I watched as he went through the airport security check for London and I'm not sure when I will see him next. He loves Hannah so much and while I couldn't be more proud of him he will be dearly missed.
Thank you 2011 and Hello 2012.
Hannah tried but held the noise maker the wrong way
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