Feelin' Groovy

It's been a busy couple of days.

Now that Hannah's surgery date is set (Wednesday, February 29th) and her cochlear implant device is selected (we are going with Advanced Bionics), Michael and I breathed a little bit easier this weekend. Difficult decisions are always hard and they are made even harder when you are talking about your 8-month baby and picking out a medical device for her that she will be wearing for the rest of her life. We felt much relief that we crossed that hurdle and are excited for what's in store for Hannah. Although I almost feel I'm past the panic/overwhelmed stage and ready to run with this, I'm sure there's going to be moments (hopefully not many) in the days ahead where I'm anxious but I can't wait for Hannah to experience sound.

On Friday, at group Hannah reached another milestone. HANNAH CRAWLED. Well, I wouldn't exactly say she would take a gold medal just yet, but she did make it a few yards. There were a few toys that were left unattended and Hannah saw her opportunity and went for it. I like that in my girl. She got up on her knees, surveyed the land, then dropped and sort up dragged herself "wounded soldier like" to the toys. It sure was exciting watching Hannah "Go, Go, GO" but I'm sure this new stage will really keep Michael and I (and Sam too) on our toes (and paws).

I'll have a video shortly. I just can't figure out the technology aspect. Yet.

Saturdays are my favorite days of the week. I used to look forward to Saturday afternoons because we could sleep a little later, spend a little more time at the gym and meet friends for brunch. Now I treasure our new Saturday rituals. We take Hannah to her music class with Ashley at Three Little Birds. Each week, we take a "ride" to a different state and explore its music. The first week we started in New York City and sang along to the Broadway musical Mary Poppins. I promised Hannah we would take her to see it (or whatever Disney production is playing) when she's a little older. On this Saturday, we were in Cleveland, Ohio and listened to rock classics like Simon and Garfunkel's "Feelin' Groovy", Chuck Berry's "School Day"s and The Beatles "She Loves You" and "Hello, Goodbye". I just love the music classes. Not only are they a special place where the three of us spend a great afternoon together, it's also an activity that is just a regular infant program and she is just one of the kids. Oh, and there is also the benefit for her hearing. During class, Hannah hears that different tones and pitches which is really beneficial for her. One of the sure signs we know she can hear Ashley is when a song goes from really loud to really quiet. When it gets really quiet in the room, Hannah starts to shout out Ahhhh as if it's her turn to sing.

Each week, Hannah also tries out a different instrument. This week Hannah ripped a chord on the electric guitar.

Hannah jamming on the electric guitar.

After music class, we head to Southern Hospitality for some lunch. This Saturday was extra special because Hannah joined us at the table in a high chair. She's getting to be such a big girl.

Is that milk?

Later that night, we got gussied up and headed to our second BBQ meal of the day. That's right, a day in the life of Hannah Rose. We celebrated Hannah's Grandpa's birthday at our favorite of the glutenous restaurants Neely's BBQ Parlor. Grandpa was especially excited to share his birthday with Hannah.

Hannah telling Grandpa we should celebrate his birthday every month like she does.

He even shared his Short Ribs.

Does this come with any sides?

Sunday Hannah got to watch her very first Super Bowl. How great is it that her team, The Giants, were in it and won! Woohoo!!! She watched the first half and even stayed up to watch Madonna perform the halftime show. Of course, Hannah helped Eli make those stellar passes.

Hannah studying up on the Giants.

Not a bad weekend for this very special 8-month old. We can't wait to see what this new week brings.