I can’t believe that Peyton will be one year old in less than a month. Where has this year gone? Part of me feels like life has been going in slow motion, but the other part feels like it’s going too fast. I definitely understand when people say their babies grow up in the blink of an eye. Luckily, Miss P is going at a snail’s pace. We’re able to enjoy every little moment, like hitting a certain weight or rolling over for the first time. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but when I look at P, I find myself missing the 6 pound mark. Now at close to 14 pounds, she seems like she is growing up so quickly!
Now that we are out of the big flu and cold season, we are getting more relaxed with visitors (thanks to our doctor’s OK!). For the past month, our house has been filled with friends, family and so much love. When we moved to Springfield, we didn’t know a soul, which made it difficult when our lives were turned upside down. So many people in the community reached out to help. And many of our friends across the country wanted to meet Peyton, but we needed time to adjust to life with our surviving triplet.
It’s been so nice having my dear friends come to visit. Our weekends have consisted of a lot cuddling Miss Peyton, and plenty of laughter and tears over a glass of wine. While I’ve been dealing with grief for nearly a year, I forget that my friends (and even strangers) are going through their own grief over my children. So many people have taken my family under their wing, that I forget they feel happiness when Peyton reaches milestones…and sadness over Parker and Abby. As I relive the moments leading up to the birth of my triplets, it has been so nice to have close friends to hug and cry with. I knew it would be tough approaching their birthday, but the heartache can be unbearable at times.
Just last week, our friends from Michigan made the trek to meet Miss P. They were scheduled to come last summer, but their trip was postponed when we learned that Parker wouldn’t survive. Their son, Jack, was so excited to see Peyton. It was precious watching him interact with our little girl. He calls my husband, “Big Strong Ryan”, and I can tell that he definitely looks up to the buff guy. As I watched him taking t-ball tips from Mr. Skry, tears began to roll down my face. I saw Ryan with this little 4-year-old boy and I instantly pictured Parker looking up to his father. It’s moments like these that hit me when I least expect it. I always assumed our lone boy would be an athlete like his dad. I pictured Ryan coaching his baseball team or showing him how to throw a football. Luckily, I see the same look with Peyton. She is definitely a daddy’s girl. Whether it’s Ryan gluing sequins on a dance costume or playing catch on the softball field, I know she will look up to Ryan, just like Parker is doing in Heaven.
Peyton had another great check up with her Nicu doctors last week. She is still petite, but getting so mature. She is finally fitting into 3-6 month clothes and her length (26 inches) is helping her fit into some 6 month pants! She’s a champ at eating her fruits and vegetables and constantly tries to grab the spoon from us. She loves to sit up on her own…and of course pose for the camera!!! Check out her great facial expressions below. This girl smiles about 99% of the time! Mr. Skry and I have been talking a lot about Peyton’s first birthday. In next week’s blog post, I’ll share how we plan to celebrate, while honoring Abby and Parker.
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She is adorable! I’m so glad that she’s a happy healthy little Princess!
wow,can`t believe Peyton will be a year.She is so adorable.Love your post and pics.
You are so blessed to have your triplets. ..even though Abby and Parker are in heaven….looking over Peyton…..she will always have 2 guardian angels protecting her and for that you can be very thankful…its awesome to see her beautiful smile…I think that the reason she has such a big smile is because she is smiling for Abby and Parker too!! Can’t wait to hear about the birthday party….stay strong…hugs♡♡♡♡
Hi Peyton, hard to believe you will be one year old soon. so glad to hear your great Dr. report. Love all the pictures. Hugs to Mom and Dad.
Thanks for sharing such great pictures with us all who love your family and pray every day for you all. Miss P is growing and what a cute smile always love to see the new post of her. Looking forward to seeing the plans for her Birthday and the memory of Parker and Abby.
I just love reading the updates on Peyton and seeing her adorable smile (and pompadour). 🙂 I’m sure this coming first birthday will be so bittersweet. You are in the thoughts and prayers of many.
Thanks so much for posting this update. Decatur has followed your story and the heartache and also the survival of this little gal. Peyton, you are loved in the hearts of so many in central Illinois. Happy birthday.
You have a way with words Stacey! Summarizing your accomplishments, happiness, and grief so eloquently is impressive. Sending so much love to you as you walk down memory lane, as we all do on our children’s first birthdays, with so much to be proud of, heartbroken over, and thankful for. I can’t imagine what you continue to go through, all with such a positive outlook to what’s ahead.