Our Mini-Vacation

Yamaha furloughed its employees last week. While this wasn't the best of news in this economy, Steven and I saw it as an opportunity for a week together we wouldn't have had otherwise. We decided to take Alexander's first mini-vacation to Asheville, NC. We toured the Biltmore, spent some time at the North Carolina Arboretum, and then headed to Knoxville for a visit with Steven's Uncle Russell and Aunt Diane in Knoxville, TN.

8 Weeks Old

It is hard to believe that our little guy is eight weeks old already! We have had a fun few weeks. Alexander made his first trip to the grandparents' homes in Auburn, we had special visitors here at home, and Steven had his first Father's Day.

Alexander Gets Spa Baby Bath

Alexander bathed like a European baby today.  CG bought Alexander a Spa Baby bath tub after seeing it on the Today Show, and we used it for the first time this afternoon.  The idea of the Spa Baby tub is that the baby can sit in an upright position with warm water surrounding him, creating a womb-like bathing experience.  Our first Spa Baby attempt was a success.  Alexander only protested when we took him out of the warm water.  There's nothing in the world like a sweet smelling baby!

My Cool Dudes

Latest Cutie Pie Pictures

What a month!

The Gladdens have been busy the past month!  On Friday, May 1st, I (Erin) found out I had HELLP Syndrome.  The only cure for HELLP is delivery of the baby, and the doctors decided it was time for us to meet our love bug.  I was induced four weeks before my due date, and Alexander Orion Gladden was born Saturday, May 2nd at 7:30 AM.  Needless to say the journey has not been easy, but almost a month later we are thrilled to have a healthy little boy who is growing daily.  Alexander weighed 4 pounds 14 ounces at birth and spent six days in the NICU.  He was only a tiny 4 pounds 6 ounces when we brought him home.  Our tough little guy is just over 6 pounds now.  Our family and friends have shown amazing support along the way, and we feel truly blessed.    

Thank you Thomas Crossroads Elementary!

I am so thankful to teach in a school full of terrific teachers.  They have become like a second family to me, and they are a source of daily encouragement in my life.  My 1st grade team hosted a baby shower for me, Steve, and our "Love Bug."  The flowers, food, and friends were delightful, and I am grateful to my wonderful team for doing such a fantastic job planning everything.  THANK YOU TCE!

THANK YOU!

Chris Cicci and Fran Madsen were kind enough to host a baby shower this past weekend at the Cicci's gorgeous new home. The thoughtfulness and generosity shown to Baby Gladden at the shower blew me away, and I was so thankful for some time to spend with an amazing group of fantastic Auburn moms. Thank you to everyone involved for a fun baby afternoon.

More Baby Shower Pictures

Ultrasound Pictures

These ultrasound pictures were taken at 20 weeks.  Ahhh what a cute blur!  It was so exciting to see the baby moving around on the screen.  I think we have a very active little darling!