And the gold goes to...

2016 Olympics here we come...With Elliot's apparent love of the water we could have another Michael Phelps on our hands...Right now she's focusing on the backstroke, but we're planning on moving to the 200 Butterfly in a couple of weeks.

6 Weeks and growing...

I thought I would post some pictures - give the people what they want :) I have had a long, busy week and am pretty tired so I don't feel like writing much, so pictures it is. Have a great weekend!

Love to Grammy...

For those of you who don't know, I was fortunate enough to have my mom here for a month after Elliot was born. It was such a gift. She helped me with laundry and cleaning - she even painted our baseboards! Most importantly, it was a precious time for her to spend with her first grandchild. My mom was able to be with me as I became a Mom and I will cherish the month that the three of us shared.

The top picture is of Ellie asleep on "Grammy". One day, I went into the bedroom to take a nap and, lo and behold, when I came out there they were conked out on the couch. The other picture is one of Grammy's favorites. It was taken before a bath - explaining the grungy baby look :)

Mom, Elliot and I love you so much and had a wonderful time with you. It was a time that I will always remember and will tell my sweet girl about. We can't wait to see you in a few weeks.

Born Again

Angels all over Tiger nation are rejoicing this morning with the addition of Chris Simon into the Clemson family. Chris, a former dedicated Gamecock fan, has seen the error of his ways and has come into the light. Tiger fans hold no grudge Chris, we welcome you with open arms as we are sure you are glad to be part of a winning tradition.

Don't you wish...

you could sleep this well? The other evening Elliot fell asleep on Mark and when it came time to move her to her crib this is how she got there! She had a long hard day of eating, sleeping and being cute -nothing wears you out quite like that. I picked up her arm and it just fell back down like a limp noodle - very funny.

Also, Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! As you might have guessed, we are extremely grateful for the precious girl God has given us. We are also so thankful for our family and friends that are just as excited about her as we are - thank you for the thoughtful gifts and unending support.

A Smitten Daddy

This post goes out to my husband. When Mark and I met freshman year of college, we clicked right away. We became immediate friends - it just took me a few years to realize that he was "the one" God had for me. Mark is hilarious, loyal, loving, always willing to help and most importantly he loves the Lord. Even though it is no surprise to me, I am still blown away at the wonderful father Mark is to Elliot. I get teary thinking about how much he loves his baby girl. From the moment she made her entrance into this world, a light filled her daddy's eyes. Without hesitation, he changed her first diaper, soothed her when she fussed, and held her as she slept. He was made to be a dad and he loves Ellie and I so well - it means more to me than he will ever know and I am so grateful for the way my husband loves and leads our family. These are a few of the pictures I have taken of them over the past few weeks. To me, the last photo is Mark in baby girl form - cute though :)

Stick 'Em Up

For those of you who don't know, Mark has been looking forward to using our baby as a funny prop (when appropriate of course). The other morning Elliot was asleep in her bouncer with her hands up and this is how he took advantage of the pose. I am sure there will be more interesting pictures and stories in the future - I will let you know.

Just another cute picture...

This was taken when Mom and I were getting ready to take Ellie on a walk. She loves cruising around in her stroller. I think it is so cute so I had to post it :)

Also, Elliot is two weeks old today! I can hardly believe it. In just two weeks she has become much more alert - you can tell she is trying to take it all in. So, Happy Two Weeks Baby Girl - two weeks down and so many more wonderful weeks to come...

Elliot and friends

The post goes out to Hannah. Last night, she said "I have been checking your blog and you're not updating it". Elliot has been blessed with SO many people that love her and have come to see her. Here are just a few pictures of Elliot with her friends that have visited. She is very popular!

Our new Love

Elliot Elizabeth Ables was born October 29, 2008 at 9:55 p.m. Mark and I both feel the whole experience has been a testament to God's faithfulness and the prayers and support of our friends and family. The delivery was remarkably smooth and speedy and so far, Elliot has been an angel baby - eating and sleeping well and very little crying.

Everyone tells you that you will never know how much you can love someone until you have a child and it is so true. Our hearts are overflowing with love for our precious girl.

Tonight we are just hanging out watching the election coverage. Mark is cuddled up with Elliot and I think to myself that everything seems so right. The house feels homier and our life seems so much richer in just a week's time. God is good!

The Start of Something New

So, the Ables are joining the blog world. Mark and I want to have a place to post pictures and keep family and friends up to date on what is going on in our lives. For example, we are having a baby girl in a month...I mean, that is big news, right? We figured a blog would be a great place to share this exciting time and the blessings to come with those we love.