How do you keep a newborn warm? That’s what I tried to figure out this week as we dealt with a snow day and a windchill down to -38! Luckily, Peyton didn’t have to leave the house. But temperatures that cold, caused quite the draft in our 100 year old home.
The roads were a mess, so that meant Mr. Skry had an extended weekend. We lounged in our pj’s all day and Peyton didn’t leave our arms. She is definitely a “Daddy’s girl”! She melts into Ryan’s arms….it’s so precious, I could watch all day long. Miss P was bundled up with extra layers and oblivious to the bitter cold outside.
While last year was a difficult one, a lot of good has come from our experience. I have reconnected with so many friends and acquaintances from decades ago and realized how much love and support there is for my family. Our experience has also opened the door to meeting new people. Peyton isn’t the only miracle child to make her way through the Nicu at St. John’s Hospital.
Last week, we had dinner with the Hernan family. Their daughter, Eliza Mae, spent more than 4 months in the hospital after being born at 25 weeks. During our 4 months in the Nicu, we often heard about the “miracle child” before P&P. Peyton was in the same private suite and bed space as Eliza. Nurses would often tell us, “The child before Peyton was a miracle, so it’s good luck. Miss P will be a miracle story, too.” Sure enough, that was the case! We had a wonderful time with Eliza and her parents. Our children are 6 months apart and they have so much in common–especially their love for tutus! While our husbands handled the babies, Laura and I were able to share our stories of pregnancy and Nicu life. From hospital stays to surgeries, we talked for hours. It was so comforting to know that my emotions, frustrations and fears were similar to Laura’s. Our families are connected through a scary experience, but we all out came out stronger and I know our families will be friends thanks to our children. Even though my daughter was crying in the picture (it was bed time!), I see many play dates for Eliza and Peyton in our future!
I want to mention one other family I’ve gotten to know, thanks to Peyton. Courtney Westlake is a local photographer and author. Her daughter, Brenna, was born with Harlequin Ichthyosis. It’s a very rare skin condition. I remember my news station doing a story about their family. I was so honored to get to meet sweet Brenna a few months ago. She is an active and adorable two year old! While our children have gone through different medical challenges, our emotions are similar. It was wonderful hearing Courtney’s positive outlook on life. I have learned to take life one day at a time and that you learn to adjust to what life hands you. You can follow Brenna’s journey through their blog: Blessed By Brenna (It’s wonderful!!).
And one other note before I sign off. Parker always had wild bed head and Peyton is continuing the trend. I snapped a few pictures after her bath yesterday. Her dark hair is really starting to come in, especially on top. It looks like she has a toupée! I love that I can look at Peyton and see Parker living on through her. Those big eyes and wild hair make me think of my sweet son. Click on the pictures below to see Peyton’s latest style trends. My mother was busy crafting up new outfits, plus I couldn’t resist a shirt that says “Little Princess”…so fitting for Princess Peyton! I added a few pictures for those asking about Riley. He never leaves Peyton’s side, unless the crying goes on for hours…then he’s curled up in a ball!
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[…] year we got to see Peyton’s friend Eliza, who was a miracle Nicu baby just 6 months older. Our families have gotten together in the past and it’s fun to see E & P together this year, healthy and rambunctious! We just love the […]
Princess Peyton – – glad you stayed warm & comfy during the polar vortex. Bundle up if you go out. You are so stylish and you rock those pj’s. Hugs & Kisses little one – – stay warm!!
She sure is the little princess.Love reading the blogs.
Hugs
jane
Hugs to all. God is good. You are blessed and loved.
Princess Peyton is cuter by the day!
Wonderful happy family! Prayers continue to be with you. Enjoy her as we all do through your postings!
What a joy to see this. Peyton really is filling out and has the most adorable expressions. And Riley…what a good guy to watch over her. Thanks so much for sharing all of this and look forward to more updates.
She’s edible! So cute!
Peyton, All of Central Illinois and beyond have fallen in love with you. You are such a champion fighter at such a young age. Your mom and dad are taking great care of you and I hope you continue on your path to getting healthier and bigger each day. Congrats on all your accomplishments. I am praying for you!
Peyton you are absolutely adorable. Keep getting stronger little angel.
Good morning, Peyton! Your mama has been keeping us updated with wonderful pictures and great descriptions about you. There are so many people that are truly interested in how you are progressing: growing stronger each day, seeing changes in how you’ve filled out, knowing that Riley is your constant companion and that you are a “Daddy’s Girl”!! Prayers for you are the most important thing in your life right now … asking God to keep you well and whole, and to keep Mama and Daddy strong for you and each other as well. Maybe someday, I’ll have the humble opportunity to meet you and your family. You are loved, Peyton …… you are loved.
<3 <3 <3 Always
Hugs for Peyton!!
Hello Peyton.
I always look forward to see what you are up to next. Glad to see you are doing so well. I know you make your mom and dad proud!
She really seems to have filled out recently and she has a lot of new expressions (to us, anyway) on her face. I so look forward to your blog posts!
So glad to see Princess Peyton doing so well…I am oh so glad to See that God is good and has answered so many prayers for this miracle baby girl…I still keep your family in daily prayer…stay strong. ..hugs… 🙂
Hi Peyton. So precious that the dogs is watching her. Adorable. Getting so big. Love the pictures.
She is so adorable , look forward to reading about her every week. Give her a hug for me.
So glad to hear Peyton has met a friend who I’m sure will be a life long friend. And yes Princess Peyton you become more beautiful each and every day.
Hi, sweet Peyton! We love reading all the posts from your mom on your amazing progress. You have the best parents and dog in the world. We love you and hope to meet you in person some day. (Maybe Megan will go to the University of Oregon and you and your parents can come visit her on campus!) Love all your pictures. You are beautiful and loved!
Yes Zoe!! Tell Megan — “Go Ducks” 🙂 (I LOVED my college experience there)
Love seeing her adorable pictures. She is one stylish princess. Xoxoxo
I am so happy to see Peyton getting bigger and better. I am still praying for all of you every day. I know how hard it is after my brother went through it, but great things will come out of it. Princess Peyton is truly a Princess and brought all of us together!!
Am I seeing a belly on that girl, lol…so ex
citing to see her grow and follow your journey…
What a joy to read the blog and see all the cute pictures of a sweetheart and looks like you kept her good and warm with lots of hugs. Bless you all as you climb each small hill every day remember Gods walks with you!
Thank you for sharing my blog!! 🙂 We need to get together again!
Yes Courtney! Would love to get together again, now that the hectic holidays are over.