Today is a special day because Father Yeary will baptize Ivey today at 1:30 pm. It will be a small ceremony with only Gwen, Matt and Father Yeary present. The family will plan a baptismal celebration when Ivey comes home.

Ivey's weight is up to 5lbs 12 ounces. She is getting stronger every day and is trying to lift her head. She has become much more alert and is having longer periods of being awake.

Last week big brother Knox was playing with a friend's doll and after gently covering up the doll he told Walker, "this is our baby sister, Ivey, and we have to take good care of her." After seeing this, Gwen thought it would be a good idea for the boys to each have a doll they could play with so they could start role playing how they need to behave around Ivey when she comes home from the hospital. The dolls are a hit! They boys love their substitute baby sister so much they took the dolls to church yesterday. What a gift for Gwen and Matt to have such loving and gentle sons. It is amazing that at three Knox can be such a compassionate big brother. How wonderful for Gwen and Matt to be reminded that Ivey is on everyone's mind and their children's love for their sister continues to grow despite Ivey not being at home.

Special thanks to everyone who has emailed me with camp information or who has volunteered to carpool the boys this summer. I haved passed on the options for summer programs to Gwen and once she has made her plans I will get back with everyone to schedule transportation.