The Blue Ridge Mountains

In June, we took Ian on his first retreat to a cabin in Blue Ridge, GA.  We spent the weekend with our student leaders planning out the 2009-2010 school year.  It was so exciting sharing yet another of God's beautiful canvases with Ian as we rocked on the porch overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains.  He seems to soak up whatever environment he's in which is so refreshing.  He's into it because he hasn't seen the world before; therefore he approaches it with new eyes and such excitement.  Fred and I love watching our son experience so many new wonders.  At 19 weeks, he's already been to the beach, the mountains, seen snow, and ridden on an airplane!  I pray that the world is always seen as God's creation and special gift to Ian. 

Amarillo, TX

At the end of May, Fred and I took Ian on his first plane ride to Amarillo, Texas to visit some dear friends.  He was amazing throughout the trip...so amenable on the flight and with our hectic schedule.  We ate at a hilarious West Texas restaurant called the "Big Texan" that's decorated with more cattle heads than any room should hold!  We visited the apparently infamous "Cadillac Ranch" and the Palo Duro Canyon.  Ian got to meet Gabe, Christy, and Sadie Gillespie and initiated Christy with a good dose of acid reflux!  We had a wonderful trip Amarillo and enjoyed the Texan hospitality. 

Beach 2009

Our first beach trip as a new family was quite an adventure. We had no idea what to expect. Our usual routine of laying out and reading books all day was no longer an option with a four month old! Ian was not a fan of the sun (it was so bright to his eyes) and the wind simply took his breath away. But I still managed a few rays as Fred stayed inside the condo with sweet Ian. Needless to say, we spent more time apart on this family vacation than we ever had before! However, Ian did enjoy the indoor pool and Fred and I ate delicious fish and seafood throughout the week. It was a wonderful way to introduce Ian to another part of God's beautiful creation.

Ian's budding personality

Ian is really developing his own personality and it's great to see how much he is like the both of us.  He's a talker...constantly making noises and seems to be in conversation with his toys.  Yet, he's also inquisitive and curious (which is seen through those blue eyes!) and has a sweet, sweet spirit about him.  He's very loving and a huge cuddler which makes my day!   

Ian's fourth month

Ian's fourth month has been full of a lot of exciting "firsts."  He's using his Bumbo seat and learning to sit up.  He spends plenty of time on his tummy and is holding his head up so well. He plays hard with Fred...tickling, laughing, getting tossed about...he loves every minute of it! Ian's noticing his toys and plays in his jumparoo and exersaucer constantly throughout the day. He's really starting to interact as if he understands what we're saying and who we are in his life. Fred and I are definitely loving this stage!  

Easter 2009

Ian's first Easter was spent at Campus View church and then at our home with the Murrell's (JP, Angie, Meredith, and Knox) and Amos and Patty as we ate homemade lasagna and iced sugar cookies.  Ian's Easter basket was filled with books, bubbles, and a stuffed bunny.  And though he slept through most of lunch, he woke up in time to share his activity mat with Knox and socialize with our dear friends.  

Fred plays at Two Story Coffee House

Ian's first night in a coffee house was spent listening to his dad play guitar at a singer/songwriter event at Two Story Coffee House.  Though he slept through most of the evening, he definitely responded to the sound of Fred's voice and guitar.  Fred has written some really cool pieces that he will hopefully be able to share again.

Ian's third month

As we move into Spring, we've been able to spend more time outside and enjoyed our first trip to Memorial Park. Ian loves being in his stroller and seems so relaxed outside (a trait I hope he and I share for years to come). Ian went to his first birthday party for Avery Sharpe (who turned one in April), but slept through most of the festivities. He's become more active, showing many facial expressions, and thoroughly enjoys his bath! 

Snow Day in the South

We experienced A LOT of snow in March this year. It was beautiful to see until our power went out for 2 days with an infant! Still, we enjoyed introducing Ian to another part of God's creation and one that is rarely seen in Georgia-SNOW!

Ian's second month

Ian's second month in this world has been equally exciting but a bit more relaxed as Fred and I have begun to find somewhat of a rhythm in this journey of parenthood. He's sleeping longer (it has taken some time for Ian to differentiate between his days and nights) and has increased his eating to 4 ounces...what a big boy thing to do! His smile has started to develop and he seems to recognize Fred and I (at least that's what we think).

Ian's first road trip

Ian took his first road trip to Moulton, AL (mommy's hometown) and met his Papaw, Leigh Ann, Charlotte, and John David, Haley, Daniel, and Laura Ann and a whole host of mommy's neighborhood family. He was excellent on the drive (slept the entire 5 hours) and was so patient with everyone wanting to hold him.

Ian's first month

The word "adjustment" doesn't begin to describe our first month with Ian. Sleepless nights, nervous parents, and a happy little baby just hanging around with Mom and Dad. He gained almost 2 pounds and grew half an inch in this first month. He loved his Baby Papasan Seat and playing on his activity mat.

Ian is here!

Ian James Liggin was born on January 19, 2009 weighing 7 pounds, 11 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long. He had dark hair and dimples (a Glenn family trait) and seemed absolutely perfect to his proud Mom and Dad. Though I wish it were possible, words simply can't express how it feels to become a parent.