13 days old

As of today September 19th, Luke is 13 days old! We have been blessed with great support from family and friends. Melissa's mom, dad, and sister were here the weekend of Luke's birth. Her mom stayed through most of the first week until Greg's mom relieved her, covering another week. Without our Mom's what would we have done?! So much to do, so many clothes, feedings, all nighters. Most of you have experienced it at least once. Mom Alston and Jones were so sweet and selfless, sacrificing sleep, time, and much more.

Kelsey came for the weekend on Luke's 6th day. Unfortunately she couldn't hold him as she had a cold. She is well now and coming again very soon. She is excited to have a brother. Greg is happy as well having always worried about her not having a sibling to love and grow old with.

Melissa has enjoyed so much support from her friends. Visits from the West Houston crew have been plentiful, frequent phone advice and compassion from Elizabeth in Fort Worth, as well as from both of our sisters, have been much appreciated. And, can I just tell you about the advantages of living across the street from Lindsay Garrett!....... Desserts, Sonic drinks, dinners.... WOW! And she has a 3 month old! We are not worthy, but we are grateful nonetheless.

Amy Wagner has been a great friend as well. She has so many great ideas and tools to make our lives easier in transition. She has been so generous and kind.

We are thankful for all of our neighbors... Mandy, Julie, Autumn, and ANNA MARIA.

For those of you who don't know ANNA MARIA........ She is an 80 something born and bred Italian lady who gives us words of encouragement when she sees us.

The latest examples: On Melissa's due date we were proceeding down the street on our daily walk. We walked by Anna Maria's house (which we didn't for months because Melissa was scared of her ... Jesse pooped in her yard and the "little boisterous Italian Lady saw it") he he.

Anyway, Anna Maria greets us in front of her house.

Anna Maria: "Whena youa going ta have you baby?"

Melissa: "Well I am due today"

Anna Maria: "Wella Whata the hella you doing walking downa the street for then?"

(Six Days later after the baby is home, Anna Maria knock on the back door, Greg open's the door.)

Anna Maria: "I hava a gift for da baby."

Greg: "Well come in Anna Maria."

Anna Maria: "I don't wanta to come in".... (she then sees Melissa behind me holding the baby)...."Ohhh da baby, maybe I do want to come in." (As Anna Maria steps into the house)... This stepa is dangerous! Somebody going to geta hurt."

Greg: " I know Anna Maria. I need to get that fixed."

Anna Maria: (to Melissa) "You got ta nota holda that baby all da time or you not have tima to comba your hair, looka...." (Anna Maria points at Melissa's hair gesturing to me and my mom)

(Melissa and Greg acknowledge and thank her for the advice and gift. Anna Maria leaves as she complains about the step again)

Thanks again to everyone for your calls and prayers. More to come later.