Winter Wonderland

We had our first snowfall this year with accumulation yesterday. Today it was 40 and sunny so we took full advantage of the day. I picked Ethan up from daycare early in his sled. He has now officially gone sledding down the hill in our front yard and loved just being pulled around. Mom had quite the workout. We had so much fun.

Ethan's First Teeth

Here is a peek at Ethan's first teeth. Look closely at the bottom gum.

The Greatest Feeling in the World

I have decided that the greatest feeling in the world is knowing that your child is happy. I have been feeling so unbelievably guilty about having him in daycare until today. I just dropped him off and as soon as he heard Christopher, Mikala, JJ and Anna he started panting and flailing with excitement. I could barely get his coat off because he was wiggling to get down. Ann-Marie (his "teacher") took him and he never looked back. As I put his coat away I watched him immediately begin to "play" with the other kids, smile and talk. It was the greatest feeling to know that he not only has that interaction (which I can not provide), is safe and most important, is happy.

"Sledding"

One of Ethan's early Christmas gifts was a new sled from Grandma and Grandpa Hurford. Of course we gave it to him early but since we do not have sufficient amounts of snowfall to enjoy the great outdoors... we improvised! Ethan loves "sledding" in the living room. (No that is not our carpet, our rug is being replaced so that is only the padding- long story)

Ethan Walking

I think we are in trouble. Ethan has gone from walking holding our hands to walking behind his walker. This video was taken Sunday, December 2, by today he is already able to start and stop it on his own while maintaining his balance. He is only 7 months old. Any advice besides baby-proof now?

Ethan's First Picture with Santa

Ethan had his first picture taken with Santa today. He was such a good boy, as usual. He most enjoyed tearing apart the coloring book they gave him. It was fun to get a smile this year because based on the other kids in line, he may be crying next year.

All I got for Thanksgiving were my two front teeth!

On Tuesday before Thanksgiving we saw Ethan's first tooth for the first time. We had felt it and heard it the week before but were finally able to see it. By Friday we could start to see the other lower front tooth under his gum. It has not erupted the gum yet but the poor little guy is surely feeling it.

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with Pat's family. Pat's parents and cousins were able to join us. The food turned out DELICIOUS! I shocked even myself. Homemade pumpkin pies right down to the crust, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, brussel sprouts, fresh cranberry sauce, sausage stuffing, spinach souffle, and of course "Ernie", yes I named the 22lb bird. I have to say that the cooking channel was right- you have to brine the bird! It was great!

I hope everyone is geared up for the holidays. We are so excited this year mostly because of the new spirit surrounding the holidays in being able to share in all of Ethan's "Firsts".

More baby laughter...Go Bucks!

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We had a great weekend this weekend. We went into the city yesterday to watch the football game, Uncle Brian and Aunt Michele babysat Ethan, and the Buckeyes beat Michigan for the fourth year in a row. What a great weekend!

Oh yeah, enjoy the baby laughter- Ethan is laughing at the Weasels, I mean Wolverines!

Winter is Coming...

It is getting to be that time of year when winter coats and hats come out of the closet. (I am happy to fit in my winter coat again.) Ethan of course still loves going outside so we bundle up and take our walks. He is the cutest little boy all wrapped up! What do you think- Do you like his hat?

Ethan is doing very well at his new daycare. He is a lot happier when I pick him up and I am much happier because I feel like he is getting far superior care to the last situation. He loves the other kids and they seem to really enjoy him. They are all around 18 month to 2 years but all say "BABY!" when I bring Ethan in. It is quite cute.

Baby Laughter

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Who doesn't love to hear a baby laugh? Happy Friday! (Shaky camera because he laughs at me flipping my head back and forth with wet hair- anything to hear that laugh.)

Evidence

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Well all I have to say is that we have moved beyond pulling himself up on just the laundry basket and crib. Today it was his Christmas present (it came in the mail, I had to give it to him) and the sofa. He tried to hold onto Bella but when she walked he lost his balance. Notice in the video that he walks to me at the end. He has also started taking steps only holding one of my hands.

Will someone please remind Ethan that he needs to crawl first!

We finally got a computer!

Yes, you are all in trouble now! Daily pictures and video here we come! Our new iMac arrived yesterday and although it will take me three years to figure this thing out I do know how to hook up the camera and get on the internet. Need I say more.

Time to drop the crib its final notch...

The time has come for our big boy to be at max depth capacity on his crib. Today as we were playing with the laundry basket (why do we buy toys?) Ethan grabbed the edge and stood up. I was so proud of him. But then I put him in his crib, turned around for a second and sure enough, the little stinker was standing up behind me. Now we have to take baby-proofing to a whole new level if he can pull himself up on things. He is so cute and entertained with himself though.

After 8 days, I yanked our son from daycare...

Yes, it's true. Last week after walking into daycare on Thursday morning I was so upset/furious/disgusted that I picked Ethan up, packed his things and removed him from daycare. All I have to say to fellow new parents is: Do your homework and then revisit. We were snowed! We were so convinced that this daycare was our best option based on our options for Ethan but could not have been more wrong. Let's just say:

-dead bugs in his food crate
-diaper rash after 4 days
-workers wearing dirty shoes on baby floor mats
-sweet potatoes up Ethan's nose at 3PM when he ate at 10AM
-45 degree air blowing in on babies because a worker was "hot"
-Ethan crying in the middle of the room seated on floor when 2 workers sitting and talking
-Not using wipes or ointment when changing diaper-explains rash
-Not washing hands after changing a diaper
-Crock pot with dirty warm water used to warm bottles-the water leaked into caps around nipples

You may be asking yourself why I had him there 8 days. This stuff all added up over time and the worst offenses I did not find until the morning I pulled him. You will be happy to know he was never there longer than 4 hours. Poor kid.

Now he is at an in-home daycare at a neighbor's house two doors down. He is the youngest baby so he is getting a lot of the attention and in learning from the older kids. There are 7 kids and 2 ladies but in the afternoon only 4 or 5 kids with 2 ladies. Most of the kids are between 18 to 24 months.

Anyways, now you know why I have sounded a little stressed lately if you have talked to me. It is hard enough having him in daycare but even worse to think of all this. He is in a much better situation now. That is what I can be thankful for.

Our little Pumpkin

Ethan's First Halloween was a success! We had so much fun with him. Patrick was able to come home early from work to dress him up for the evening. We all sat at the front door watching the trick or treaters. Ethan loved seeing the kids. We can't wait until next year when he can go out and get us some candy.

Time flies...

It is amazing how quickly time flies by! I came across these pictures only to realize how much Ethan truly has grown in just 6 months. Life is such an amazing miracle.

Ethan is certainly not a completely helpless baby anymore. He definitely has his father's brain, his mother's stubborn streak, and is all boy! Because he can walk holding our hands he is always on the go! He knows where to find the dogs, where his bathtub is (which he loves to play in with or without water), the exit to his bedroom (a gate that he thinks he can climb), his books (which he pulls off the shelves and tries to eat), and the telephone- oh how he loves the telephone!

Late breaking news... at around 7:00PM this evening he started commando crawling. He only went around 6 or 8 inches but I think we are very close to having to completely baby-proof the house.

My baby is growing up too fast!

New tricks but not all treats

Ethan has learned a few new tricks. First he is walking like crazy (with assistance) and stands on his own holding on to something (crib, wall, sofa), and is mastering his walker. Unfortunately he has also learned how to manipulate his way into Mom and Dad's bed at 2AM.

When he was sick two weeks ago I slept with him in the spare bedroom a couple of nights because he was practically up all night and Patrick had to work so he needed his sleep. Now he has decided that when he wakes up between 2 and 3AM he needs to find a more comfortable bed and will scream for up to 2 hours- that's right folks, I am up from 2-4AM. Finally I crumble like a cheap muffin a carry him off to bed. We have tried changing the diaper, feeding him, giving him tylenol (suspecting teething), rocking him, everything! No matter what, even if he falls back asleep he is up every 15-20 minutes thereafter until he wins. This weekend we attempted tough love with letting him cry for 15 minutes then going in briefly only to let him cry again. After 2 hours we gave in. I spoke with the doctor today and since she saw him last Monday she said she thinks it is behavioral and we will just have to suck it up and let him cry for up to several hours, yes HOURS, to break him. Lord help us.

So I'm a little behind...

Well, its been a little while so here is the scoop...

We are back from Columbus and Michigan and had a fabulous time at both places. In Columbus Ethan and I were able to visit our old friends and neighbors Jerry and Sharon and Julie, Jason, Kate, and Erin, and my friend Amy and her adorable daughter Ava. We stayed with my very pregnant friend Debbie - who is looking fabulous for 8 months pregnant- Go Debbie!

In Michigan Ethan and I stayed with Grandma Lucy for a week but were fortunate enough to see Grandad, Aunt Jenny, Uncle Tim, Kaylee, Jenn, Shelly, and Carrie. We had a wonderful time visiting in GR. Then we went to Detroit for Brian and Michele's wedding- Congrats!- and saw Grandma and Grandpa Hurford. Ethan had his first night with a non-related babysitter. Thank you Mrs. and Mr. Huntington! He was is great hands. We had a great trip except Ethan got sick for the first time. He had croup this week. Not fun.

Now we are back in NY and dealing with the daycare situation. Tomorrow is my first official day back to work- YUCK!!!- but I don't even have a job assignment yet. Ethan started daycare on Thursday- just two hours with me there. On Friday he was there from 9:30 until 1PM and it nearly killed me. I couldn't even leave the room without crying. I literally started thinking about his day and had to hand him to the worker and leave the room. What sealed my coffin was Ethan flashing me a huge smile as I was sobbing out the door. He did not nap for them and apparently cried quite a bit. They say it is normal but I know he is sad because he is so accustomed to getting one on one attention and being able to move around all the time. It is very hard right now. They keep commenting on how advanced he is for his age and I keep thinking how he will fall behind now that he is there. Someone please tell me he won't turn into a moaning blob like the other kids in his room appear to be.

Anyways, I'll let you know how tomorrow goes. Half day again. We'll see...

New Shoes

My big boy finally got a new pair of shoes. Someone told me to get shoes on him now so he can get accustomed to wearing them before he walks so we went to stride rite and got a fancy pair for crawling/ standing. I learned he has big feet though- already size 4! He doesn't quite love them yet but will deal with them in small doses. I'll post pics as soon as I can.

Video Challenged

So, apparently I am more challenged than we all once thought. After everyone was saying they couldn't see the video, yet I could see it from my computer, I finally figured out that I had it marked private so no one but us could see it. I fixed it. So if you tried to see the videos and couldn't, try again. I think it works now. If anyone sees it, please leave me a comment so I know it works.

Other than that Ethan is doing great just getting bigger and stronger by the day. I will put new pics up soon and some funny video- if it works.

A boy and his dog

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Ethan loves Emma so much he just smiles whenever she comes around. If the truth be known, Bella loves him more and is truly his protector and best friend. For some reason though, Ethan just laughs at Emma.

Ethan Sitting

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Ethan is now sitting on his own. He is doing even better now that it has been about a week or so. He does "fall", I think he throws himself, backwards but it is quite cute

Video Help Needed

Apparently the video did not come through. For any bloggers (Stef, Emily, Jenny, hint hint) could you please tell me how to get a video onto the blog posts if it shows up in the preview but not on the actual page? Or another way to get a video saved to the computer onto the blog. I tried the help page and now have spent way too many hours trying to do this myself. I am sure this is a no brainer dah moment but HELP!

Ethan's first bites of cereal- August 6, 2007

Now he is a pro!

Okay, this is my experiment with video. I think it worked so I will try to add more videos in the future!

Thanks for your help Tim! By the way, I shot the video with one hand and was feeding with the other- no comments on quality :)

Even More Michigan Pics...

Hanging with my cousin Nick

I love Kaylee

Who can go to GR without going to John Ball Zoo

Grandpa's office

Meeting Great-Grandma McCarthy

More Michigan Pics...

Grandma reading to Daddy and Ethan

Aunt Jenny (aka the Godmother) and Ethan

Patrick on a Camel, anything for his niece (For those of you who know Pat, need I say more?)

Great-Uncle Ben

Grandad, Ethan and Kaylee

Our Michigan Visit

My first Tigers game with Daddy

My new friend Chase

Why does safety have to come first? I don't like life-jackets!

Storytime with Grandma and Kaylee

Finally Home!

After being around what seemed like the entire state of Michigan since August 15, we are finally home! We had such a wonderful time visiting everyone that we were able to see. Unfortunately we ran out of time and were not able to see all the friends and family we would have liked to. Don't worry I will be back in October and will try to catch up then :)

I will write more and post pictures as soon as I can get them up. Today we are unpacking and taking care of house issues. Yes, the money pit struck again- we returned home to a smelly, broken fridge and freezer.

In the meantime, we were able to get Ethan's pictures taken while in Michigan. Here is a sneak peek. I will post the link as soon as they all come in.

Making "Raspberries"

Ethan has discovered how to make the "raspberry" noise blowing bubbles out of his mouth. It is the funniest thing! He is also rolling over now from his tummy to his back and can just about get over from his back, but not quite yet. We are going to have to drop his mattress down though because last night I found him scooted around with his legs up on the rail- not good! Otherwise he continues to love his exersaucer and is getting bigger by the day. He is now in the 90th percentile for height and the 50th for weight although I am told that really means nothing at this point as long as he continues to grow. He is still the happiest baby I have ever seen which of course makes Mommy and Daddy happy!

Who does he look like?

Everyone keeps saying Ethan looks just like me. I think he is a good combination of Patrick and I. I did find my baby picture from 4 months so here it is. Let me know what you think...

Funny Boy

Ethan is sooooooo funny these days. He is such a happy boy again (now that we have discovered he has a milk allergy and have remedied the problem). He is so much fun and just cracks me up all day long. It is so funny how he commands your attention either by demand (the little whine that reminds you he needs attention) or by guilt (the way he flashes his million dollar grin just as he catches your eyes staring down into his gorgeous blues). He has the greatest belly laugh I have ever heard!

I can't wait for everyone to meet him when we come home in August. I am counting down the days. Until then, here is my favorite photo lately- I have a new favorite but do not have it uploaded yet. Maybe later this week...

Ethan's Baptism

Sunday was Ethan's Baptism. It was a beautiful and moving ceremony that we were fortunate enough to share with all of the Grandparents, Ethan's Aunt and Uncle, some of our best friends, a Great-Aunt and Uncle, and some cousins. We had a wonderful day with great food and great company.

Ethan slept through nearly the entire Baptism and only briefly woke up when the water was poured over his head. I think he thought he was getting a bath. We are very happy to have had Ethan welcomed into the "Celestial Family" of our church as the priest put it. Ethan is truly our little angel! I am sure that term will change as he gets older but for now...

Happy July 4th!

We hope everyone is having a fabulous 4th of July with family and friends. We are very excited to be having visitors this weekend for Ethan's Baptism on Sunday. All of the Grandparents are flying in and Jenny, Tim and Kaylee will be here as well. I couldn't be happier to have a full house! We are having a little get together Sunday after the Baptism which everyone is welcome to, so if you are in the area... :)

I will post pics after the weekend. I can not wait to share this wonderful event with everyone!

Ethan's Celebrity look-alikes

Pat's Celebrity look-alikes

My Celebrity look-alikes

This was pretty funny to me!

10 weeks old

I am about 3 weeks behind on new pictures but here are a few. I am having so much fun taking pictures of the little guy but I am afraid I am going to have to get a seperate room for all the photos!

He is getting to be a big boy and is sooooooo much fun! We can't wait to introduce him to everyone!

Patrick's First Father's Day

Happy Belated Father's Day to all the Dads! Ethan suprised Patrick with a special father's day request to take him to a baseball game. He even made a card and bought his Daddy tickets and a hat for his favorite team, the Detroit Tigers of course! We will all be going to see the Tigers play the Yankees in August. It was very cute because ever since we found out we were having a son Patrick has been talking about taking him to baseball games and coaching his baseball team.

No other big news to report other than the house is being painted as I type. I can't wait for it to be done!

Actually there is big news...

CONGRATULATIONS Jenny, Tim, and Kaylee on the adoption! It is now official. Kaylee is a Laird by law. We could not be happier for them to never have a home visit again!

Happy Birthday Boys!

Happy 29th Birthday Patrick and 2 month birthday Ethan! (Ok- so it was yesterday but I am so proud of my boys and was too busy yesterday)

Ethan is 12 lbs 1 oz and 23 1/4 inches long. He is such a good boy and getting to be a big boy!

Grandma and Grandpa Hurford are coming to visit this week and we couldn't be more excited. Can't talk long today but more updates later...

Our little Buckeye

Due to popular demand I have posted our little Buckeye for all to enjoy! Note to Grandpa Hurford: THIS IS NOT A WOLVERINE! Please do not confuse the two, it may traumatize the child to be insulted in such a way.

8 weeks old- tomorrow

I can not believe it has been 8 weeks since this little bundle of heaven came into the world! Sometimes it seems like yesterday, other days it seems like we have had him forever. He goes to the doctor Monday for his two month checkup and shots- ouch! He is so big I can't wait until we find out his new stats- height, weight, etc. He is such a happy boy. Smiling and laughing all the time, even in his sleep. It is truly amazing how no matter what is happening in your day that one big smile can just make you stop dead in your tracks and put everything in the world into perspective.

I am already dreading going back to work. Yesterday as Ethan was nodding off on my chest I started thinking about taking him to daycare and dropping him off that first day. I couldn't even do it in my visualization! I started crying and then laughing at how much of a mush I have become. God be with me on Monday when he gets his shots. Mom will probably have more tears than Ethan. I think if he could talk he would tell me to suck it up- he's a strong little man.

Speaking of... the King just woke up and wants to eat- NOW.

You be the judge...

Patrick
Ethan

Ok now, for those of you who think Ethan looks like me tell me what you think of this! I literally found this picture and for a second wondered how Ethan's picture had gotten where I had found it. It is amazing how much these two look alike from the baby photos. Patrick is so excited that his son looks like him- except for the blue eyes!

Finally- Some new pictures

The King is now five and a half weeks old and is growing like a weed. At his one month check-up he weighed 9lbs, 9oz and is gaining by the minute. He is already in 3 month clothes and fits in some of the 3-6 month stuff. He continues to be the greatest baby ever. Last night he slept 7 hours! It was only one night but I am hoping for two (and to take advantage of the time, last night we were only able to sleep for 4 of those hours). He continues to smile all the time, especially after he wakes up from a nap, first thing in the morning or after he eats. He is just so much fun. A true joy and blessing in our lives. I just can not believe how quickly he is growning up!

Everything else is good. I had my check-up today and everything is great! A few more pounds to lose of course but hopefully that will happen sooner than later- especially with our new treadmill being assembled next week. Patrick is still loving his job, just busy again with lots of cases.

The house, I mean money pit, well... let's just say we got a new sump pump last week and having gutter work done very soon.

Hopefully I will update soon!

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day! What an amazing title I have to say!

Ethan is such a big boy now! He celebrated his 1 month birthday on Saturday and is doing so well. He started smiling last Monday and has not stopped since. I can get him to smile most right after he wakes up from a nap or first thing in the morning. His big gummy grin melts my heart every time I see it. I of course have tried to snap a picture but by the time the shutter closes on the camera the smile has eluded me. I have captured a half smile that I will try to post this week. He is too cute. I will not however give up my quest a picture that easy, I will keep trying.

Other than that things are good. The house is still a money pit. The hot water heater broke this weekend and we have to install 2 sump pumps in the basement. More contractor coming this week. Lucky me. At least we are getting it all out of the way now.

Finally- Some New Pictures of the King

The little guy is waking up so my time is limited. Ethan is two and a half weeks old and is growing up too quickly already! Last week he had a weight check at one and a half weeks and already weighed 8lbs 4 oz. He gained 8 oz from the previous week. The pediatrician was most impressed- so was I. He is doing great and is sleeping four hour stretches at night. He is such a good baby. He only cries when something is wrong- diaper, gas, or hungry.

Ethan already has a nickname in the house. He is "the King". Anything the king wants, the king gets and when the king isn't happy, nobody's happy. We just love him so much. He is so much fun to just watch sleep.

Everyone always says that you will never know how it feels until you have a child and they are right. What an amazing miracle and an awesome feeling to just love that little person so strong and so much.

The King has risen from his slumber- I must attend to the little man!

Ethan Joseph Hurford

Ethan Joseph Hurford
Born: April 12, 2007, 2:00 AM
Height: 20.5 inches
Weight: 7 lbs, 15 oz

Ethan is absolutely perfect! I do not know where to begin other than to say I guess they were labor pains! We went to the hospital at 5:30AM and were admitted at 9:30AM. I had a natural labor progression that the doctor said was textbook- until the pushing part. I have to say that although I enjoyed the experience of contractions, I loved the experience of an epidural. Thank God for drugs! When it came time to push at 10:25 PM I was ready to see my baby. But, after an hour and 45 min of pushing he had only dropped one station. I was exhausted. The doctor advised us that she wanted to perform a c-section because she felt that at that point he had less than a 50/50 chance of dropping on his own in the maximum 3 hour pushing window. I did not want a c-section but had no fight left in me. That is where my best friend, the best labor coach in the world, and my champion stepped in. Patrick went to bat for me with the delivery nurses support asking if I could rest and try to push just a little longer. They agreed to redose the epidural, let me sleep for 30 minutes, and let me try pushing for another 30 min. After 30 minutes if there was no change we would have the c-section. So, I pushed again and before I knew it, although I thought they were lying, they said the baby was only a few pushes away. I only believed them when the doctor put on the rain gear to catch and then Ethan was born. Thank you Patrick for fighting for me when I couldn't.

It was scary at first because he was unresponsive- they didn't even let Pat cut the cord. As I watched what seemed like hours go by and my husbands smile turn to concern and the doctor intently watching and asking about more suction from accross the room I started to pray. And then I heard the most wonderful sound- my son crying. Because I had spiked a fever during delivery and because Ethan had been a little unresponsive they took him to the Critical Care Nursery. I was only able to hold him briefly.

He remained in the CCN until we went home Friday evening but is just fine. He is eating like a champion and is absolutely perfect! It is so amazing how you can just fall so in love with this little person instantly. He makes my life feel so much more complete.

Patrick is such a great Daddy! He just adores Ethan and everything he does. It is so precious to watch them together. Because I am breastfeeding Patrick has taken to the jobs of annoying Ethan when he is trying to fall asleep while eating- although that doesn't happen much anymore and changing diapers. He is quite good at swaddling as well.

We are home and loving every minute with our little family. We just feel so blessed to have Ethan in our lives. Our son.






I must apologize in advance: I am working on the pictures.

Our home computer is broken and our work computers will not let us upload pictures. As soon as I can I will post our little man's first photos.

Labor Pains?

Well, it is 4:25 AM. I have been up since about 1:15 with uncomfortable to say the least contractions every 3-5 minutes. This better be the real thing or I am going to ask for a take home spinal and a bottle of sleeping pills.

At our non-stress test yesterday we were sent straight to labor and delivery because my fluid amniotic fluid level was low and we were having contractions every 4-5 minutes (nothing like these though). I started having contractions Monday night around 5:15 PM. Of course they sent us home saying basically not to come back until the pain is unbearable- don't pay attention to time. The baby looks great and they say he is "tracking beautifully" with his vitals. They now guess his weight to be 7.7lbs (we'll see). So, after wasting the afternoon at the hospital we got home around 5:30PM. We had a lovely evening watching American Idol, House, and Boston Legal and went to bed.

So, now it is 4:33- two more big contractions later and I am hoping we will have a handsome baby boy by the end of the day. The issue now is when to go to the hospital. I called the doctor and their first question was, "Do you want an epidural?" after my answer not wanting to go that route right away they basically laughed and said to stay home as long as possible. The only thing is traffic. Now that we live outside the city the morning commute driving in to NYC could be a nightmare. I think we will leave at 5:30 if this continues only because if we don't we will have to sit in traffic or wait until around 9:30 which may be too long- after all I may end up wanting drugs!

Now that I have passed some time and caught you up to the minute I will sign off only to probably sign back on tomorrow to say just kidding- that has been my luck with this :)

Happy Easter Weekend!

I hope you have a very safe and happy Easter weekend with your family and friends!

Still no baby here yet. I am always hoping that in the next moment my water may break and the fun may begin- but there again I'm still hoping.

Just a quiet weekend planned here. Back in Michigan all of the parents are helping to load our "Pod" for shipment on Monday. It will be nice for us to finally have nearly all or our stuff in one place. It will be great for our parents to have their basements and garages back without our stuff cluttering them. Thanks Mom(s) and Dad(s)!

An Easter baby would be a nice treat so please pray that a stork drops off our Easter basket this year with a healthy little boy!

Home Sweet Home, Ready for Baby!

We are all moved into the house now. Everything is unpacked (except the office), the dogs are like puppies again (digging in the yard but happy), and the nursery is all set and ready (but no baby yet- I'm hoping today).

We love the house and are so excited to have the space again. It is so nice not to always have everyone in the same room. Patrick even asked the other day, "Where are you?" and started laughing at the fact that he hasn't had to wonder that in a long time. We are still very close to the city. Only a 30 min drive or train ride away. Patrick's commute to the office every day is only 15 more minutes than what it was in the city believe it or not and he enjoys the down time on the train ride home- where he actually gets a seat unlike the subway.

I will post pictures as soon as I can. In the midst of all the chaos our computer broke so until we can get a new one I can not upload pics. I can use my work computer but it will not allow me to install the program to add my pics.

Now we are just waiting for the baby. I am ready. I have been 80% effaced for two weeks and am now dialated to almost 2 cm. I am having contractions all the time- but apparently not the good ones that eject a baby. My fingers look like plumped ball park franks and my feet only fit into my loosened tennis shoes. Oh yeah and I never thought I would see the day but I only fit into large and extra large maternity shirts- the belly is really out there. Like I said, I am ready.

It's official!

Well it is now official, we own a home or should I say have a large mortgage for one :) We closed on the house today and are so excited to be moving in on Thursday. I can not wait to take the dogs to the house and see their reaction to having a yard again. I am going there tomorrow to get things ready and cleaned and give the girls a chance to run around the empty house before the chaos of moving day. I also can not wait to set up the nursery for the little guy. Patrick is in Washington D.C. until Wednesday night so I told the little guy he has to wait until at least Friday so that his father is home and we are all moved in. Hopefully he is not like his mother and will be obedient.

Please feel free to come visit us, we are still only a short distance to the city and now have extra room for visitors. I like to think it's the best of both worlds.

No More Bedrest

We had another appointment today with the doctor. The good news is I no longer have to be on any form of bedrest! (That was short-lived) We are past the questionable point of lung development with the baby so we are free to deliver at any time. The baby looks and sounds great. They estimate his weight to be just under six pounds. He is head down and out of room! The only concern they now have is that the amniotic fluid levels looked a little low at the office so we had the "non stress test" (I think that is what they called it) done at the hospital. They monitored the baby and measured the fluid levels. Currently we are on the low end of where they would like them to be but are not in the "bad" range yet. We will just have to go in weekly at this point until the baby is born to get rechecked.

Other than that, things are great! I am trying to get everything in the apartment packed up before next week, just in case. Next week is crazy though! I told the baby today that he needs to wait until at least next Friday to come out. Monday we close on the house, Patrick is out of town Monday night to Wednesday night, and we move on Thursday! Yes, we are crazy.

Wish us luck...

"Modified Bedrest"

Well, yesterday after spending four hours at the hospital I was put on "modified bedrest" until the little guy arrives.

I never planned to call the doctor, and probably never would have, but when I saw my physical therapist yesterday morning she called the doctor herself. Needless to say I was sent to labor and delivery for "a half hour of monitoring" which was a lie. Like I said, four hours later they let me go home. I am having active and consistent contractions but am not dialating yet so in an attempt to slow or stop the contractions I am supposed to stop all exercise, walk only small distances and relax (feet up) the entire remainder of the time. This is very difficult for me. I just want to move around! I can't even walk the dogs anymore! Hopefully this will all keep the little guy inside for as long as possible though.

The good news is that the baby has already settled into the pelvis head down- no breech baby here thank the Lord! He looks great and had a great heartrate. They said that at this point (34 weeks 3 days) if labor starts they will not try to stop it because he is fully developed. Obviously we hope he stays put as long as possible to keep growing and fatten up!

Please say a prayer that he hangs in there until April.

Good news, we have officially sublet our apartment as of April 1 so we will not have a mortgage and a rent payment! We are so blessed that everything is falling into place with this move.

Our Niece

I just realized I have not shown everyone our niece, Kaylee Elaina. Kaylee was welcomed into the family in September and has been so much fun to watch grow since. We are very excited that our little guy will have a cousin his age to play with- and a girl no less to teach him the feminine things in life.

33 Weeks

Only 4 weeks until full-term! Although Pat and I are very excited about the arrival of the little guy we have a lot to do in the next month. We are definitely utilizing every last day of having a
"contained" baby- and enjoying our sleep!

Nothing new to report with the baby. He is growing, as evidence by my expanding belly (sorry no pics, our home computer broke and is the only one with the software to download from the camera). The little guy does not really kick anymore because of a lack of room but he certainly still rolls around and throws an elbow every now and then- especially in the middle of the night when he settles to one side, usually under the rib.

I am interviewing a pediatrician tomorrow near our new home. I just don't think the one we picked out in the city will be very practical anymore.

Other than that we are just taking things one day at a time enjoying our last few weeks overlooking Manhattan.

Keeping our fingers crossed...

Everything looks good on the house so far. The appraisal and inspections are complete without any problems. Now we are just waiting on the title search and to schedule a closing date with the lender and sellers. If all goes to plan we should close and move in the week of March 19. We are also very optimistic that someone will be leasing our apartment by April 1 to let us out of our contract. As of right now, everything seems to be falling into place- but I don't want to jinx us so we will just wait and see.

Other than that, the baby just needs to stay put and wait for his nursery to be set up. Oh yeah- and they need to deliver the "fixed" crib before we move.

No stress here! Can you tell?

Our House- almost...

We went into contract officially on Friday to buy our new house. We are very excited but will not be celebrating until we get the keys. Real estate in New York is a different animal altogether. We had no idea. Anyways, here is a glimpse of the new pad we are hoping to move into before the little guy is born. Please keep us in your prayers so that we can get the nursery set up and the girls in a new yard before the baby is born.

NYC Hazardous to Dogs

Well many of you know that the city has not been kind to Emma and Bella. They have been sick at least once a month since we moved here and most recently Bella was seriously ill and went into shock from an unknown toxin off the street. Tonight however we found another very serious hazard to dogs. Manhole covers. It is 10 degrees below zero here tonight (at least it feels that cold) and on our nightly walk Emma decided to explore. Needless to say the advice to school children not to lick the flagpole applies to dogs not licking manhole covers. Emma learned the hard way. Luckily it wasn't a full lick.

For those concerned: she ate her treat just fine when she got home.

30 Weeks

This past weekend we looked at more houses. I had forgotten how stressful and draining it is to search, but now I remember. The good news is that I think we are getting closer to finding a place to call home. Keep your fingers crossed!

Sunday was a relaxing day at home. Patrick and I took advantage of our time off and got aquainted with some of our baby gear. Good thing they warned us about the car seat. It is in fact more complicated than it looks. After reading the instructions we now know how to install it and adjust the straps to fit the toy cow. Hopefully it works the same for the baby. This is all getting so exciting! Only 70 days to go!

29 weeks

Only 75 days to go! I am starting to finalize the organization plan around the baby's birth. Agendas have been created, checklists have been printed, instuctions for Patrick have been laminated, the hospital bag is being packed, baby clothes are washed and in the drawers (Patrick and I now have no drawers), records are at the hospital and the baby has a pediatrician. As much as I feel ready and anxious to finally meet my little man I feel like I still have so much to do. I know I will always have more to learn but there is this lingering fear of forgetting something so big and obvious I will be put on an email forward for idiot of the year! (No comments)

Patrick and I continue our house search. We have a new realtor (#4) who will be helping us on Friday and Saturday to try to find shelter for the family. Please say a prayer that we find our dream home (or at least something with a roof that doesn't leak). I am trying to be optimistic. What is meant to be will be...

28.5 weeks

Even the half of the week counts at this point. I am starting to feel huge and uncomfortable. I don't want to complain because I love being pregnant but I can see how in a few weeks I will really be ready to have this over with.

The baby is kicking all the time. His new favorite spot to hang out is under my ribs. I think they are bruised by now.

We are still looking for a house. We had put an offer on a home we loved but after a bidding war we lost when another party was willing to pay cash. Some of us poor people actually have to get a mortgage :) Everything happens for a reason. We know we will find a better place out there for our family.

27 Weeks- It's a boy!!!

Well, the cat is out of the bag- It's a Boy! We announced the good news to the grandparents over the holidays so we may as well spread the word to everyone else.

We are officially in the third trimester and couldn't be more excited! The crib has been delivered (although they have to order us a new one because it has some issues), the newborn clothes are washed and in the drawers, and the showers are only a few weeks away. I can't believe we are almost there.

We are currently looking at houses in Westchester County, NY, and are very optimistic that we will find a nice home for the little man. We can even get a yard for the girls. They are very happy. Other than that, things are going great!

There have been several requests for a picture of the big belly. Against my better judgement here is the latest picture. I will point out that it was taken after a grueling workout explaining my sexy attire- at least I'm still working out :) Enjoy the laugh.