Baby Girl!

OK, I admit it, I’ve been a bit of a blog slacker, what with the holidays and blah, blah, blah. So, that said, this post is a week late in coming, but oh so worth the mention!!

My cousin Brax and his wife Jenna welcomed their first baby into the world last Thursday night and yippee — it’s a GIRL (Hailey Nicole)! Not that I prefer pink bows to blue caps or anything (my little guy is my world), but I am sooo thrilled that, after three great grandbaby boys, the second generation of cousins has finally received an infusion of estrogen!

And, don’t tell the little sister, but I’m secretly pulling for her “Squirt” Bolding to pop out with pouty lips and a propensity for all things frilly.

GO PINK! =)

But, back to the original Great Grandbaby Garms Gal — Hailey. She’s precious! Mimi, Cooper and I went to meet her for the first time last Sunday and it was such fun. You get so used to your own little one growing at warp speed before your eyes that you forget how tiny (AND LIGHT!!) they start out.

And, it’s always amazing to see that “new parent glow” on the faces of fresh mommies and daddies. That wonderful mix of uncertainty and confidence, of knowing everything and knowing nothing, of pure exhaustion and pure adrenalin all combined with a love that radiates from somewhere deep within the soul — it’s intoxicating.

I am beyond ecstatic for Brax and Jenna and their new bundle. What a beautiful Christmas blessing. Here’s sending them warm wishes and “nap”py thoughts. =)

-smell you later-
Coop’s Mom (aka Tessa)



the happy family



two generations of cousins all cuddled up on the couch (look how friggin’ happy dad looks!!! aww!)




coop hangin’ out with the new grandparents (papa g and mama g) at Jinbeh pre-baby meeting … papa g is already in protection mode! too cute.