We bring Summer home!

Summer finally came home. A huge sigh of relief, now our family can be at home together.

That first night Summer slept 7 hours, through the night. She was glad to be in her own bed, even though it's big enough for about 10 babies her size!

We love our sweet little baby, she is settled and happy. We have adapted to HER schedule! :) She is such a sweet, happy, healthy baby. You can't even tell that a week ago she was in the NICU. We are making sure sweet baby is ready for the Houston trip in November, and Thanksgiving in Arkansas. Daddy is remodeling the bathroom and working nights - stealing kisses through the day, pretending to be "too busy" to change dirty diapers, yet available for feedings. Hmmm... I'm living in the bedroom with baby! Sleeping when she does and enjoying the bonding that comes naturally with a new baby. Sunshine, Cheeto and Harley don't know quite what to think about the little bundle that is constantly making grunting and cooing noises! Sunshine is my shadow - making sure I'm taking care of Summer, following me around for the feedings and diaper changes. We wanted to again thank everyone who stood by us through this time! It has been exciting and scary, and the support is truly what made the difference. To all that visited, and brought gifts and laughter - THANK YOU! We truly appreciate it.

Summer goes to San Antonio...

Chris and I spent that first night without our baby, it was the strangest, saddest feeling. We set up a laptop to watch a movie, trying to distract ourselves, but it didn't work. I was released 18 hours after delivery, but Summer Lynn had to be transported to San Antonio for further treatment. Being born a month early, her lungs were underdeveloped, and the doctors wanted to keep an eye on her in the NICU. We were there 11 days. Every day and night we rotated shifts with our precious baby. Between my Mom, Karen, Chris and I, she was never alone when visiting hours were open. There were many times when each of us fell asleep holding that tiny bundle in our arms, wanting so badly to bring her home. But she was a little fighter, doing everything in her power to get better. She was known in her room for being the best "burper", she takes after her Daddy a bit! :)

The support we received was overwhelming, we would have never held everything together without family, friends, and the many prayers we felt. Summer had many visitors, but only immediate family was allowed to be in her room and hold her. A special exception was made for my "Mee-Maw". Their bond and love for each other was instant.

What a little baby!

Somewhere around 6:30 am, I stirred from my sleep and woke everyone up. "Let's GO!" It's that mommy thing, when you know, you know! We piled into the car making phone calls and sending texts... We made it to McKenna Hospital in New Braunfels, TX a little before 8 am.

The hospital room was full of people, eager to be a part of the miracle. To meet our angel.

At 12:11pm, Summer Lynn Coley arrived. Weighing 6lbs 5 oz, and 19 1/2 inches long. She came in such a hurry that mommy didn't even have time for an epidural! 3 strong pushes and our little angel came into the world.