Welcome Ashlyn Jayne

February 4, 2012, was the birth date of our newest family member, Ashlyn Jayne.  After nearly 14 hours in labor, Ashlyn finally joined us.  The minute she was put into my arms I felt such love for this beautiful little girl.  She was born at 1:20 pm.  She weighed 7 lbs 1 oz and was 22 inches long. 

Her brothers and sisters were very happy to see her.  They kept fighting at the hospital who got to hold her the longest.  Later that night, Matthew came to the hospital with James for some one on one time.  He was so cute with her.  I was worried how he would react to the new baby but he has been nothing but sweet.  He loves being a big brother and sings to the baby all the time.

A few days after having Ashlyn home, she started with johndis.  She was on a beli blanket first (it's a light blanket that she had to lay on at all times.  This didn't bring her blood count down fast enough so they brought in the bank of lights.  It looked like she was laying in a miniature tanning  bed.  After two day and nights of laying in the lights, her count went down.  I was grateful and I'm sure Ashlyn was happy to not have to have her foot pricked again. 

Ashlyn is a sweet little baby.  She still sleeps most of the time which makes the kids disappointed because they want to have her awake and hold her.  The kids have all been a great help with duties around the house and taking care of the baby.  I have been proud of all of them.  We are also grateful to everyone in the neighborhood and family who have helped out and wished us well.

Heather

Heather had a pretty exciting week the first week of February.  Her school started a new show choir.  Heather decided to try out for the show choir.  She was quite nervous but she did a great job and made the choir.  They've already had one performance.  They auditioned to sing at the Davis School District Gala.  The choir got word that they were accepted and get to perform at the gala.  Heather has to go to choir practice three mornings a week before school.  She has done a great job getting up and getting herself ready in time for practice.

Heather also had the science fair this week.  Heather's project was determining which sugar releases the most carbon dioxide when mixed with yeast.  We were fortunate enough to have the girls off track for a few weeks before the science fair so Heather was able to get it all done in plenty of time.  I was proud of her for doing it on her own.  She won first place in her grade and that made it all worth it for her.  Good job Heather!

Violin Recital

The three girls had their annual violin recital.  Each one graduated to the next level.  I was very proud of them.  It takes a lot of work to get the graduation song to a level that it passes.  They have to memorize and play the song perfectly.  They also have to record the song and have it reviewed by other teachers.  I think I was as relieved as they were to finally pass off their songs.

Lindsey set the goal in her Young Women's to graduate.  She did a great job.  She had to practice on her own and motivate herself.  I was proud of her for accomplishing the goal.