You Know You're a New Parent When ...

1. The baby finally goes to bed and instead of reading an interesting book or having a deep conversation with your spouse, you look (again) at pictures you've taken of the child since he was born.
2. The number of pictures taken in #1 could fill the Library of Congress. And the kid is only 3 months old.
3. You get up at 4 a.m. out of habit now.
4. Your favorite household item is now the 24 inch flourescent, stuffed, cloth worm that sings If You're Happy and You Know It when you squeeze his head.
5. You carry a binky in your purse.
6. Going to church involves strategic planning: where to sit, the timing feedings and naps, etc.
7. Hovering.
8. Returning to work is looked upon as vacation.
9. Instead of making zuchinni bread with the summer's produce, you puree it for baby food.
10. You start watching the clock for when your husband is going to come home from work.

Welcome Home Talmage

While the chickens flourished on the Baxter Estate, my attentions were directed to our firstborn son: Talmage. He was delivered C-section on June 23, weighing in at 8 pounds 7 ounces, 21 inches. Two months later he was 15 pounds 2 ½ ounces. He likes being held. I challenge any of you to an arm-wrestle.

The coolest part about Talmage's name is the "Alma" inside of it. Alma is Briton's grandpa's name. We also like that it starts with a "T".

Three Generations

Grandpa Kartchner and Dad

Grandma Barker and Dad

Grandpa BarkerGrandma Kartchner