Thursday, December 23, 2010
The House that Connor built....
and that was gone approximately 8.34 minutes after this picture.
Anyone know a good kid's dentist?
Anyone know a good kid's dentist?
Kangeroo Care
Along with kissy time with Connor, my favorite part of the day.
Daddy with our precious baby Abby...she has a little virus and needs extra prayers!
Mommy with beautiful baby Ella, all festive for the holidays!
Daddy with our precious baby Abby...she has a little virus and needs extra prayers!
Mommy with beautiful baby Ella, all festive for the holidays!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
All Abby & Ella, All the Time
I have started a new blog for the babies where I will put daily updates, pictures and whatever strikes my fancy that is just about the girls. I will leave the blog up until the girls come home, then am hoping to make a book about their journey home. It is still a little rough around the edges, but if you would like to check it out, please visit www.abbyellahomewardbound.blogspot.com Of course, I will still be posting here, the new blog will be more like a journal of sorts.
Thank you for all the love and support! We need a little more prayer, not only for the girls, but also for me. I am still struggling with high blood pressure. We are going to try a med adjustment and hopefully that will work. I need to get it under control, and soon. I need to be healthy for when these babies do come home.
Love you all!!
Thank you for all the love and support! We need a little more prayer, not only for the girls, but also for me. I am still struggling with high blood pressure. We are going to try a med adjustment and hopefully that will work. I need to get it under control, and soon. I need to be healthy for when these babies do come home.
Love you all!!
Sunday, December 19, 2010
One Week Old!
I can't believe it has been a week since all the excitement!
I finally got to come home on Friday. They kept me an extra day because of my blood pressure. I am taking medication now and hoping it soon comes down on it's own. Leaving those babies at the hospital though? One of the hardest things I have ever done. It gives me a little pain in my heart every time.
That being said, I bawled like a baby when I got home. My house may not be the house of my dreams or a big old mansion, but it is home. I was so happy to be here. There truly is no place like home.
Enough about me you say? Let's hear about the girls? Well alrighty then....
Both of the babies are doing great. They continue to thrive and impress everyone with their progress. Everyone says what pretty babies they are and I have to agree!
They are both being fed through nose tubes and probably will be until 34 weeks or so. They both lost weight, as all babies do, but are both just 2 ounces shy of their birth weights! And they both will steal your heart the second you lay eyes on them.
Miss Abby wouldn't open her eyes for her week old picture for NOTHIN! That's okay...she was a sleepy little angel and when they sleep, they do their best growing! Abby is still spunky, though a little less feisty once they started the nose tube feeing. She is ready to eat from a bottle...heck, she would eat off a PLATE if they let her. she is already at 19 militers. She is my over acheiver (I called that one from the womb, if you remember) and is so cute. She LOVES having her hair brushed. Little Princess Abby.....that's my baby!
Bright eyed Miss Ella, is almost completely off the oxygen assistance. They are weening her slowly which is fine...we've nothing but time! She perks up at the sound of my voice and bats her eyes at her Daddy....as if she didn't already have him wrapped around her finger! She is up to 22 militers of food. Ella is already showing signs of being my girlie girlie, she loves to wear bows! Abby will tug at hers, while Ella will wear the same one for days!! My little Beauty Queen, that's Precious Ella!
We have established a visiting schedule and the Ward (shout out to Marcie and Mike!) and our family have stepped up and offered to take Connor for a couple of hours on week-ends so we can see the girls and have our Kangeroo Care time. I am hoping they will be home by the end of January, and I will NOT take the Christmas tree down until they are here. I am so proud of them for all the fight in them and for being determined, strong little ladies. I am so proud of Connor, this has been so hard on him and he can't even see the babies...he will be such a great big brother and has so much love in his little heart. And of my amazing husband, who spent so much time with me at the hospital while taking care of things at home. My heart is so full of love, I had no idea I was capable of this much love! And it just keeps growing....I'm afraid it will burst.
I finally got to come home on Friday. They kept me an extra day because of my blood pressure. I am taking medication now and hoping it soon comes down on it's own. Leaving those babies at the hospital though? One of the hardest things I have ever done. It gives me a little pain in my heart every time.
That being said, I bawled like a baby when I got home. My house may not be the house of my dreams or a big old mansion, but it is home. I was so happy to be here. There truly is no place like home.
Enough about me you say? Let's hear about the girls? Well alrighty then....
Both of the babies are doing great. They continue to thrive and impress everyone with their progress. Everyone says what pretty babies they are and I have to agree!
They are both being fed through nose tubes and probably will be until 34 weeks or so. They both lost weight, as all babies do, but are both just 2 ounces shy of their birth weights! And they both will steal your heart the second you lay eyes on them.
Miss Abby wouldn't open her eyes for her week old picture for NOTHIN! That's okay...she was a sleepy little angel and when they sleep, they do their best growing! Abby is still spunky, though a little less feisty once they started the nose tube feeing. She is ready to eat from a bottle...heck, she would eat off a PLATE if they let her. she is already at 19 militers. She is my over acheiver (I called that one from the womb, if you remember) and is so cute. She LOVES having her hair brushed. Little Princess Abby.....that's my baby!
Bright eyed Miss Ella, is almost completely off the oxygen assistance. They are weening her slowly which is fine...we've nothing but time! She perks up at the sound of my voice and bats her eyes at her Daddy....as if she didn't already have him wrapped around her finger! She is up to 22 militers of food. Ella is already showing signs of being my girlie girlie, she loves to wear bows! Abby will tug at hers, while Ella will wear the same one for days!! My little Beauty Queen, that's Precious Ella!
We have established a visiting schedule and the Ward (shout out to Marcie and Mike!) and our family have stepped up and offered to take Connor for a couple of hours on week-ends so we can see the girls and have our Kangeroo Care time. I am hoping they will be home by the end of January, and I will NOT take the Christmas tree down until they are here. I am so proud of them for all the fight in them and for being determined, strong little ladies. I am so proud of Connor, this has been so hard on him and he can't even see the babies...he will be such a great big brother and has so much love in his little heart. And of my amazing husband, who spent so much time with me at the hospital while taking care of things at home. My heart is so full of love, I had no idea I was capable of this much love! And it just keeps growing....I'm afraid it will burst.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Pehrson Productions Proudly Presents....
We had a very eventful week-end! Long story short, my water broke early Sunday morning. I also had a rupture in my placenta. So the doctors said, ENOUGH! These babies want to be born NOW! (there was lots of other stuff, but you get the gist). While they came earlier than I wanted, the babies are here and they are precious....May I introduce...
Cocoa....or, Abigail Grace Pehrson. She weighed in at 2 lb 14 oz and is 14.5 inches long. She came out at 5:32 p.m. and needed no breathing help. She has already had her first feeding tube meal. Super feisty and not afraid to speak her mind....that's our Abby!
Pebbles, or Eleanor Brooke Pehrson, joined us a minute later weighing in at 3 lbs 3 oz and measuring 15.5 inches. Ella is very girlie and has the sweetest little sneezes. I got to "kangeroo care" her this afternoon and we had a great girl talk. Since this picture was taken, she has already been taken off the breathing tube and has just a little nose gizmo now. She is just about ready to be taken off altogether.
We are so very blessed. However, we need your prayers. Their prognosis is excellent, but they have a long way to go before they can come home. I am told they will have to stay in the NICU for 2 months!!! It will hard, but we do what we have to. We are over the moon!!!!
Cocoa....or, Abigail Grace Pehrson. She weighed in at 2 lb 14 oz and is 14.5 inches long. She came out at 5:32 p.m. and needed no breathing help. She has already had her first feeding tube meal. Super feisty and not afraid to speak her mind....that's our Abby! Pebbles, or Eleanor Brooke Pehrson, joined us a minute later weighing in at 3 lbs 3 oz and measuring 15.5 inches. Ella is very girlie and has the sweetest little sneezes. I got to "kangeroo care" her this afternoon and we had a great girl talk. Since this picture was taken, she has already been taken off the breathing tube and has just a little nose gizmo now. She is just about ready to be taken off altogether. We are so very blessed. However, we need your prayers. Their prognosis is excellent, but they have a long way to go before they can come home. I am told they will have to stay in the NICU for 2 months!!! It will hard, but we do what we have to. We are over the moon!!!!
Friday, December 10, 2010
Y'all Ready for This?
UPDATE: Oh, how tired I get of this....spent ANOTHER evening at Labor and Delivery last night (12/10) - Shortly after posting this! I was looking forward to a quiet night with Lonny, as Connor went to Grandma and Grandpa's for a sleep-over. Long story short, I ended up at the hospital with contractions! They were able to stop them and all is well now. I was put on more strict bedrest for the week-end, but was told that these girls are coming early and to get ready. Guess what Lonny's doing today? That's right, painting the nursery. The girls are still doing great...I am still hoping to get them to 34-35 weeks. Please keep us in your prayers!
Okay, by popular demand (and that would not include mine) I am posting 30 week belly shots....they are something else...you've been warned!
What is truly amazing about this (and I know there's alot to be amazed by) is that right after this picture, I PLAYED A GIG!!! The poor people at the party just looked at me with great nervousness all evening. I think they were checking to see if I was singing or going into labor! Be kind in your comments, folks, be kind.
Okay, by popular demand (and that would not include mine) I am posting 30 week belly shots....they are something else...you've been warned!
What is truly amazing about this (and I know there's alot to be amazed by) is that right after this picture, I PLAYED A GIG!!! The poor people at the party just looked at me with great nervousness all evening. I think they were checking to see if I was singing or going into labor! Be kind in your comments, folks, be kind.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Down for the Count (down)
Had my follow up appointment with the doctor yesterday. I have officially been told that I am on bedrest as well as work release. He said if not on the bed, then on the couch. This is a great relief, because I don't want to be down in bed without being allowed to get up! A change of scenery is nice! I have been diagnosed with mild pre-eclampsia, and we are hoping to keep it that way (or just have it go away!). I now have to go into the doctor 3 times a week (what part of bedrest does that fall under?) for non-stress tests and to measure fluid and babies. The doctor says now my goal is to make it to 34 weeks (as opposed to the last goal we set which was 37), but I am hoping to keep them in longer, as long as everything is going well. Thanks everyone for all the support and encouragement! My Christmas shopping is done, as well as my baby shopping (except a few essentials I can order online) so it will be kind of nice to just sit out the craziness of the season and concentrate 100 percent on Cocoa and Pebbles.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Showered With Baby Love
I have been so honored to have had two amazing baby showers! And there is still a third one to come. I will post pictures when I can, but it's been a little crazy.
The first shower was hosted by my incredible friend Aimee Nagles-Sims. She is a friend at work who has the most beautiful home in Millcreek. It was a super special night....the food was incredible and the cake! It was a bathtub with a pink bathmat that read "Congratulations Amy" and had two little babies in the tub (complete with belly buttons) and two little rubber duckies. And it was chocolate! There were also salads from The Pub that were amazing. I didn't think I was ever going to stop opening presents! We got so many gift cards that we will be able to buy our stroller and still have some towards the car seats (fingers crossed). We also got a gift card to Babinski's....I am really excited to use that though I am told I will probably be able to afford a sock with the $140.00 since it's so shee shee! I brought my camera, but there was no memory card! So Clayton, Aimee's husband (and a darn fine defense attorney, if you are ever in a jam) ran out and got a disposable camera....now I have to actually take it in and have them developed! When is the last time I had to do THAT???
The second shower was from my girls in the hood...my ward shower! This one was extra special too! There was a hot chocolate bar and fruit and the theme was Ladybugs. Everyone had to pose with a Ladybug Pillow Pet and join the Ladybug Club! This was hosted by my homegirls Marcie and Pearl. The only thing missing was, well, ME!!!
Earlier that day I went in for a routine ultrasound. Girls are doing great! Cocoa weighed in at 2 lbs, 10oz, Pebbles at 3 lbs. This is very encouraging, in that they are still getting nourishment from me despite the 2 vessel cords. Afterwards, I asked if they would please check my blood pressure. They did, and it was 168/94!!! So I was promptly admitted to Labor and Delivery....my 3rd time! Sigh. Nobody but nobody cared that tonight was my baby shower!!! They ended up keeping me all night and I didn't get released until the next day at 6:00 p.m.!! But everything was fine, my blood pressure came down (as well as my swollen ankles) and so far no diagnosis of preeclampsia. And, as a bonus, they put me on work release a whole week earlier, so I am now officially a lady of leisure until the babies come!
Now, back to the shower. The ladies held it anyway and had a couple of special guests....Lonny (who opted not to join the Ladybug Club) and Connor (who opted to join....twice)! They came with the video camera so that I was able to see all the people and decorations. They even filmed Lonny opening some of the gifts. Then Lonny and Connor brought some of the loot to the hospital and hooked up the video so I could watch the party and open some of the gifts myself. BEST. HUSBAND. EVER. About an hour later, my two incredible hostesses brought me more gifts to open. It was the next best thing to being there. And since there was a happy ending, I guess I don't mind. Well, too much anyway.
Thank you everyone for your incredible generosity. I am sure there is no more pink tissue paper or wrapping paper in the Salt Lake Valley. Cocoa and Pebble's closet is bursting at the seams, we have tons of diapers and we are just so happy. And we still have another shower to go! We are so very very blessed.
The first shower was hosted by my incredible friend Aimee Nagles-Sims. She is a friend at work who has the most beautiful home in Millcreek. It was a super special night....the food was incredible and the cake! It was a bathtub with a pink bathmat that read "Congratulations Amy" and had two little babies in the tub (complete with belly buttons) and two little rubber duckies. And it was chocolate! There were also salads from The Pub that were amazing. I didn't think I was ever going to stop opening presents! We got so many gift cards that we will be able to buy our stroller and still have some towards the car seats (fingers crossed). We also got a gift card to Babinski's....I am really excited to use that though I am told I will probably be able to afford a sock with the $140.00 since it's so shee shee! I brought my camera, but there was no memory card! So Clayton, Aimee's husband (and a darn fine defense attorney, if you are ever in a jam) ran out and got a disposable camera....now I have to actually take it in and have them developed! When is the last time I had to do THAT???
The second shower was from my girls in the hood...my ward shower! This one was extra special too! There was a hot chocolate bar and fruit and the theme was Ladybugs. Everyone had to pose with a Ladybug Pillow Pet and join the Ladybug Club! This was hosted by my homegirls Marcie and Pearl. The only thing missing was, well, ME!!!
Earlier that day I went in for a routine ultrasound. Girls are doing great! Cocoa weighed in at 2 lbs, 10oz, Pebbles at 3 lbs. This is very encouraging, in that they are still getting nourishment from me despite the 2 vessel cords. Afterwards, I asked if they would please check my blood pressure. They did, and it was 168/94!!! So I was promptly admitted to Labor and Delivery....my 3rd time! Sigh. Nobody but nobody cared that tonight was my baby shower!!! They ended up keeping me all night and I didn't get released until the next day at 6:00 p.m.!! But everything was fine, my blood pressure came down (as well as my swollen ankles) and so far no diagnosis of preeclampsia. And, as a bonus, they put me on work release a whole week earlier, so I am now officially a lady of leisure until the babies come!
Now, back to the shower. The ladies held it anyway and had a couple of special guests....Lonny (who opted not to join the Ladybug Club) and Connor (who opted to join....twice)! They came with the video camera so that I was able to see all the people and decorations. They even filmed Lonny opening some of the gifts. Then Lonny and Connor brought some of the loot to the hospital and hooked up the video so I could watch the party and open some of the gifts myself. BEST. HUSBAND. EVER. About an hour later, my two incredible hostesses brought me more gifts to open. It was the next best thing to being there. And since there was a happy ending, I guess I don't mind. Well, too much anyway.
Thank you everyone for your incredible generosity. I am sure there is no more pink tissue paper or wrapping paper in the Salt Lake Valley. Cocoa and Pebble's closet is bursting at the seams, we have tons of diapers and we are just so happy. And we still have another shower to go! We are so very very blessed.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Thanksgiving
It is the day after.....hope you all had a wonderful holiday. I was just lying in bed listening to Lonny teach Connor the fine arts of making pancakes and setting the table. My face is swollen so that even my LIPS look pregnant, as well as my fingers and my ankles. Babies kicking so hard in a million directions....heartburn beyond anything pepperoni pizza with pineapple juice could ever do. Sigh.
I don't think I have ever been this grateful in my entire life.
Have a wonderful holiday season.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Happy Birthday, Lon
Today is Lonny's birthday...so a big shout out to my old man (even though I am, ahem, a bit older than him)! This year, in light of my current condition (may include kankles, extreme heartburn, genera cantbendoverness, extreme hormonal mood swings) he opted not to have a big family party and kept it to just us three. It was one of those perfect kinds of cozy days. Snowing like crazy, fire going, pot roast in the crock, football and a birthday cake that Connor helped frost. Lon and Con went outside to build the Biggest Snowman ever! Maybe my most favorite of his birthdays yet! Anyway, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY GUY - thank you for being such a great baby daddy....I am hoping to give you two of the greatest gifts ever in just about two months!!
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Love and Prayers
I am sad to announce that I have yet another friend diagnosed with breast cancer. And shockingly, it is a man. His name is Mike and he is a former keyboard player with Atomic Amy - he was instrumental (pun intended) in the revamping of our name and sound. He is actually in the picture of the band on the right. He is a sweetheart, a talented musician and now the recipient of a Stage 3 (as bad as it gets) breast cancer diagnosis.
Many people don't realize that men can get this as well, that they actually have breast tissue. It is unusual, 1 in 100 breast cancer cases is a man. In 2005, 211,400 women were diagnosed versus 1,690 men. It often is deadly because men aren't as suspicious of abnormalities in that area, as women are, and they are often ignored until the tumor has spread.
Mike is a great guy and has an amazing circle of supportive friends, including his adorable girlfriend Darby. He has asked that we all "tune in" at 8:30 a.m. and p.m. each day, meaning either in prayer or meditation or however that is done as an individual, and send all the positive thoughts and vibes we can. If you would like to join in, feel free!
He has to undergo a double mastectomy next week, followed by some aggressive chemo. This Friday, he is hosting a party. He wants a chance to hug everyone, since he won't have that opportunity while he is healing. He is calling his party "Stop The War In My Rack"! (So glad he is maintaining his sense of humor!) You can bet I will be there with bells on.
I have to ask though, since I just KNOW he is going to kick booty and survive this thing....is he going to have to wear survivor pink when he Races for the Cure? I can't wait to find out. Take care my friend, and MUCH love and healing light coming your way!
Many people don't realize that men can get this as well, that they actually have breast tissue. It is unusual, 1 in 100 breast cancer cases is a man. In 2005, 211,400 women were diagnosed versus 1,690 men. It often is deadly because men aren't as suspicious of abnormalities in that area, as women are, and they are often ignored until the tumor has spread.
Mike is a great guy and has an amazing circle of supportive friends, including his adorable girlfriend Darby. He has asked that we all "tune in" at 8:30 a.m. and p.m. each day, meaning either in prayer or meditation or however that is done as an individual, and send all the positive thoughts and vibes we can. If you would like to join in, feel free!
He has to undergo a double mastectomy next week, followed by some aggressive chemo. This Friday, he is hosting a party. He wants a chance to hug everyone, since he won't have that opportunity while he is healing. He is calling his party "Stop The War In My Rack"! (So glad he is maintaining his sense of humor!) You can bet I will be there with bells on.
I have to ask though, since I just KNOW he is going to kick booty and survive this thing....is he going to have to wear survivor pink when he Races for the Cure? I can't wait to find out. Take care my friend, and MUCH love and healing light coming your way!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
A Year for Miracles
What an amazing, incredible year this has been. I cannot wait one more minute to express my gratitude. This one will go down in the record books....
First, I have to mention baby Callie, our new little niece who is now 6 months old! Holy moly, where does the time go?? She is a cutie patootie and we are so glad she is a part of our family!
As you know, I have had the opportunity to work with some incredible adoptive families through Families Supporting Adoption. I am no longer active with them, but know that we were blessed with Connor as part of our work with them, I truly do. But another blessing, a huge part of it, was getting to know incredible mommies who were waiting for children, just like me. We don't talk all the time, but they are close to my heart (and my facebook & blogs) so I get to keep up with what's going on with them. I have seen so many amazing stories. And I am pleased to announce that as of today, I have seen miracles happen with each and every one of them. Sarah and Jared adopted cute Ava. Cristina and her husband Mark adopted a sweet little boy named Grady. Misty, Liz, Erika - I got to share their joy and see them go through adoptions more than once. Alison became pregnant after adopting a sweet boy and gave him a baby brother. It has been so rewarding and I could not be more pleased. (I hope I am not forgetting anyone here). This year, however, has been a banner one! Let me just share....
Erica - this is one of my favorite mommies. She has 3 beautiful children that came to her through the miracle of adoption. She is a wonderful mom who just LOVES her childrens' birthparents. She and her husband would love to have 10 kids!! Erica was told that most likely she would never get pregnant. Then, she did. She was told that she would most likely miscarry. She is now 4 months pregnant!!! You can see that she just glows. I got the sweetest e-mail from her after I announced our pregnancy that she was right behind me and it made my whole week!! She has now come out with her own announcement and I want to shout it from the top of my house!!! UPDATE: MORE BOY JOY FOR ERICA AND STEPHEN!!! That will make 3 boys, 1 girl! Congrats!
Chris - wow, one of the smartest women I know! She and her husband and son have been waiting a long time for a little one to come to them. They had a tough road and what I am sure seemed like a long journey. This past August, they were blessed with little Emmett - oooh, what a cutie, what a smile, what a guy! He sure is lucky. Chris' family has so much fun together - you can tell they are close. And Emmett fits right in, perfectly - as our adopted blessings always do.
Deidra - This is my beautiful friend I just posted about! She and her husband and son have been waiting for 3 years for their adoption miracle. I am OVER THE MOON to announce that she posted, just today, a picture of the most darling little girl in the world who will be coming to them in just a few short months, from China. Please keep them in your prayers that everything will go smoothly for them and we will get to meet this miracle very soon. Check out Deidra's blog, it really does contain one of the sweetest little faces you have ever seen.
Whew! Then of course, our own miracle. By way of update, we got to see them just today (it's getting harder and harder because there isn't much room in there). Cocoa is weighing in at 1 lb, 12 ounces and Pebbles is at 2 lbs! We are all doing great. Doctor says no more work after 30 weeks, so about a month to go (last day will be December 10th). Then hopefully one more month and they will be here, healthy and strong.
It feels like a circle has been complete for my FSA girls.
There will be a lot of full hearts at Thanksgiving this year....and I imagine for a lifetime and beyond.
First, I have to mention baby Callie, our new little niece who is now 6 months old! Holy moly, where does the time go?? She is a cutie patootie and we are so glad she is a part of our family!
As you know, I have had the opportunity to work with some incredible adoptive families through Families Supporting Adoption. I am no longer active with them, but know that we were blessed with Connor as part of our work with them, I truly do. But another blessing, a huge part of it, was getting to know incredible mommies who were waiting for children, just like me. We don't talk all the time, but they are close to my heart (and my facebook & blogs) so I get to keep up with what's going on with them. I have seen so many amazing stories. And I am pleased to announce that as of today, I have seen miracles happen with each and every one of them. Sarah and Jared adopted cute Ava. Cristina and her husband Mark adopted a sweet little boy named Grady. Misty, Liz, Erika - I got to share their joy and see them go through adoptions more than once. Alison became pregnant after adopting a sweet boy and gave him a baby brother. It has been so rewarding and I could not be more pleased. (I hope I am not forgetting anyone here). This year, however, has been a banner one! Let me just share....
Erica - this is one of my favorite mommies. She has 3 beautiful children that came to her through the miracle of adoption. She is a wonderful mom who just LOVES her childrens' birthparents. She and her husband would love to have 10 kids!! Erica was told that most likely she would never get pregnant. Then, she did. She was told that she would most likely miscarry. She is now 4 months pregnant!!! You can see that she just glows. I got the sweetest e-mail from her after I announced our pregnancy that she was right behind me and it made my whole week!! She has now come out with her own announcement and I want to shout it from the top of my house!!! UPDATE: MORE BOY JOY FOR ERICA AND STEPHEN!!! That will make 3 boys, 1 girl! Congrats!
Chris - wow, one of the smartest women I know! She and her husband and son have been waiting a long time for a little one to come to them. They had a tough road and what I am sure seemed like a long journey. This past August, they were blessed with little Emmett - oooh, what a cutie, what a smile, what a guy! He sure is lucky. Chris' family has so much fun together - you can tell they are close. And Emmett fits right in, perfectly - as our adopted blessings always do.
Deidra - This is my beautiful friend I just posted about! She and her husband and son have been waiting for 3 years for their adoption miracle. I am OVER THE MOON to announce that she posted, just today, a picture of the most darling little girl in the world who will be coming to them in just a few short months, from China. Please keep them in your prayers that everything will go smoothly for them and we will get to meet this miracle very soon. Check out Deidra's blog, it really does contain one of the sweetest little faces you have ever seen.
Whew! Then of course, our own miracle. By way of update, we got to see them just today (it's getting harder and harder because there isn't much room in there). Cocoa is weighing in at 1 lb, 12 ounces and Pebbles is at 2 lbs! We are all doing great. Doctor says no more work after 30 weeks, so about a month to go (last day will be December 10th). Then hopefully one more month and they will be here, healthy and strong.
It feels like a circle has been complete for my FSA girls.
There will be a lot of full hearts at Thanksgiving this year....and I imagine for a lifetime and beyond.
Monday, November 8, 2010
These Sharks Have Bite!
We decided to give Indoor Soccer this season...with mixed results. Connor had never even seen a soccer game before his first match. All of his teammates have played before and were a little older, so it was pretty intimidating. And they are GOOD, those Sharks are! The first game he just stood in the middle of the court and looked terrified. Second game he was chasing the other kids (not the ball mind you) and played goalie. He is getting more into it each week. We will reevaluate at the end of the season (2 more games) but will see this through, cause we don't quit! In the meantime, presenting the cutest Shark you have ever seen:
Halloween Parade
Connor got to participate in his school's Halloween parade. Everyone in his class dressed up and they were all so cute! It was a great year this year...the first time I think he kind of "got" it and had tons of fun. And remembered to shout...."To Infinity...and Beyond!"
The "Real" Halloween
We hosted Halloween at our house this year and were joined by Marcy, Ray and the Boys and Chad and Angela. Marcy was Princess Peach, Ray was a mullet sportin' redneck and the boys were Luigi and Mario. Connor of course, got his final Buzz Lightyear costume wear (after 3 parties) and Angela, was a gumball machine! Best costume I saw this year! I was a crabby pregnant woman (no costume required) and Lonny was, well, Lonny. Special thanks to Chad-who-was-Chad for being our door answerer as we went off to greet the goblins of the night!
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
November is Here
I can't believe it....we are already into November. One of my favorite months of the year! It is a month for gratitude (well, every month is, but the focus is just a little sharper, no?). Lonny's birthday is this month and we are so grateful for him. There is of course, Thanksgiving (one of my favorite holidays!) and I have so much to reflect on this year. But, it is also National Adoption Awareness month! It is a chance to celebrate the miracle of adoption and to learn a little bit more about it.
I think we have reached the end of our adoption journey. (Although I never say never......) But there are so many wonderful couples out there who are waiting to adopt. I want to tell you about my beautiful friend (inside and out, the girl is STUNNING) Deidra. She and her husband Steve and their adorable son Zack (this kid says the funniest things) have been waiting for three years. They are an amazing family who have a great spirit, go on wonderful adventures and have an incredible home filled with lots and lots of love. This month, Deidre will be sharing things she has learned about adoption and the process. I would invite you to check out her blog...she's over there on the right hand side. You may learn something you didn't already know! If you know someone who is considering adoption, please direct them there as well. Finally, I would also ask that some prayers be sent their way, that the perfect little being will come to be with them soon.
I can't believe it has been 4 years since our precious son came home to us. I could not be more grateful if I tried. For all of you who have gone through this process or have been touched by it, you know what I mean. So once again, Happy Adoption Awareness Month! It is a beautiful, beautiful thing.
I think we have reached the end of our adoption journey. (Although I never say never......) But there are so many wonderful couples out there who are waiting to adopt. I want to tell you about my beautiful friend (inside and out, the girl is STUNNING) Deidra. She and her husband Steve and their adorable son Zack (this kid says the funniest things) have been waiting for three years. They are an amazing family who have a great spirit, go on wonderful adventures and have an incredible home filled with lots and lots of love. This month, Deidre will be sharing things she has learned about adoption and the process. I would invite you to check out her blog...she's over there on the right hand side. You may learn something you didn't already know! If you know someone who is considering adoption, please direct them there as well. Finally, I would also ask that some prayers be sent their way, that the perfect little being will come to be with them soon.
I can't believe it has been 4 years since our precious son came home to us. I could not be more grateful if I tried. For all of you who have gone through this process or have been touched by it, you know what I mean. So once again, Happy Adoption Awareness Month! It is a beautiful, beautiful thing.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Everything Happens for a Reason!
Just a quick update on the baby front.
It turns out that my fall, was a good thing. That hour long ultrasound at the hospital showed something that the ultrasound at the doctor's office had missed. Most babies have a 3 vessel umbilcial cord...meaning there are two arteries and 1 blood vessel. This is the way they get nourishment when they are growing inside. Mine have been diagnosed with a 2 vessel cord - meaning only one artery, one vessel. Both of them. Happens in about 5% of twin pregnancies, lucky us.
What does this mean? Nothing for now. Cocoa and Pebbles are doing great and are growing just fine. It could mean evenutal low birth weights or that their growth could slow down. If is slows down too much, they would have to be taken early so that they could get nourishment outside my body. The doctor has also tacked on a little more time to my due date...we are now in the last week of January, but is doubtful that I will make it that far. There are other things that could go along with it (would someone remind me for the millionth time NOT to google???) but they don't seem to be a concern for the girls, as they have not detected any abnormalities or defects. And again, as of now, their weights are right where they are supposed to be.
We would appreciate continued prayers, good thoughts, names on the rolls, etc. We are anxious to get these girls here healthy and well so we can start worrying about all the other things you worry about when you have sweet little babies!
Thank you!
It turns out that my fall, was a good thing. That hour long ultrasound at the hospital showed something that the ultrasound at the doctor's office had missed. Most babies have a 3 vessel umbilcial cord...meaning there are two arteries and 1 blood vessel. This is the way they get nourishment when they are growing inside. Mine have been diagnosed with a 2 vessel cord - meaning only one artery, one vessel. Both of them. Happens in about 5% of twin pregnancies, lucky us.
What does this mean? Nothing for now. Cocoa and Pebbles are doing great and are growing just fine. It could mean evenutal low birth weights or that their growth could slow down. If is slows down too much, they would have to be taken early so that they could get nourishment outside my body. The doctor has also tacked on a little more time to my due date...we are now in the last week of January, but is doubtful that I will make it that far. There are other things that could go along with it (would someone remind me for the millionth time NOT to google???) but they don't seem to be a concern for the girls, as they have not detected any abnormalities or defects. And again, as of now, their weights are right where they are supposed to be.
We would appreciate continued prayers, good thoughts, names on the rolls, etc. We are anxious to get these girls here healthy and well so we can start worrying about all the other things you worry about when you have sweet little babies!
Thank you!
Friday, October 22, 2010
October Scare!
So we had a little excitment around here the last few days. The kind I quite frankly don't like. But since everything has turned out okay, I guess I can share....
On Wednesday, I picked Connor up from daycare (Lonny works from home those days) and after I got him in the car (thankfully, so he wasn't a witness) he told me he forgot his toy so I ran back in to get it. Mistake #1 - going back for the stupid thing, which should have stayed at home in the first place. Mistake #2 - running. Pregnant women with kankles and cheeks that practially flutter when I am walking so just THINK about what they are doing when I am running (and yes, I mean BOTH sets) can't be an attractive. I won't go into the dirty details, but as I was hurrying back out to the car, I tripped in the hallway and fell. Face planted. Not pretty. No one saw me, but they did hear me as my keys and the stupid toy went flying and I am not confessing to anything here, but an expletive of some sort may or may not been involved. The staff couldn't have been nicer, but I was quite shaken up and teary. You know how when that happens, you don't want any sympathy or anyone to really talk to you for fear that you might burst into tears right then and there? Well they did and I did. It was just bad. By the time I got home I was practically in hysterics and my poor little boy who already has eyes as big as saucers, was pretty much, to quote an incredibly cheesy 80's Billy Idol song whose lyrics I still don't get, "Eyes Without a Face". Poor guy.
I was so scared and so worried that I had done something to hurt the girls (I mean the ones in utero, but I was a little concerned about the girl pillows too, as they have expanded in size as of late - I laugh out loud everytime someone asks me "How are the girls?" and I say "Which ones?" I'm soooo funny). Here's the kicker.....for every weird symptom, twinge, strange hair (just kidding, sorta) swollen finger, etc. I always look it up in "THE BOOK". You know the one...."What to Expect When You're Expecting" or one called "The Pregnancy Bible" that my friend Breezy gave me and is awesome. This time, I was so busy feeling sorry for myself, I never did CONSULT THE ORACLE about what to do when you wipe out.
Later that night, much to my relief, both Cocoa and Pebbles had checked in so I felt like everything was fine. My back hurt a little, but no other signs of injury, but my wounded pride. But around 3:30 a.m. (it's always then, right?) I started having some worrisome pain in my lower abdomen. A dull pain, but like a cramping sort of feeling. Off and on. Off and on. I decided I would call my dr. in the a.m. and just check in.
Went to work, still feeling a bit uneasy (listen to your gut, I always say, that's God talking to ya...but do I do it? HA) and finally had the chance to call the nurse. She freaked on me, asking me if I went to the hospital after the fall to get monitored (?) told me I could be having contractions and to get to Labor and Delivery immediately if not sooner! So, I grabbed Lonny and off we went.
I was taken in right away and had monitors strapped to me that would listen for the babies' hearts and one to check for contractions. Pretty scary because for a while, we could only hear Pebbles' heart. When we would check for Cocoa's....nothing. Then after hearing it and feeling relieved, the nurse says that it could still be Pebbles' heart...they could be too close together to tell. It's one of those "please God please God please God" moments when the bargaining starts. You know what I mean. After a while, everyone was pretty sure we could hear both of them seperately (whew) but they wanted to do an ultrasound to be sure. I have not spent a lot of my life in those backless gowns. Man, it was COLD. They took me over to radiology in a wheelchair (another thing I have not a lot of experience in). Lonny had been right by my side until just before that when he went to get us food. (My hunter and gatherer) He found us and we started the ultrasound. Right away there was that WHOOSH of relief as she announced that both of them had heartbeats and were moving. And I could sure feel them! Everytime she pressed the wand down, they would kick at it! It was like a game. Until Cocoa appeared to try and kick Pebbles right in the face. It's always fun til someone gets hurt! (I decided not to scold her because I was so happy she was okay.). It wasn't the best of circumstances for me, I couldn't see the monitor at all times, but Lonny got to see them head to toe. And they are just fine. In fact, their kicking has gone into overdrive ever since. I think they dug all the excitement. The ultrasound was over an HOUR long. I know that sounds like so much fun but after a while, I just wanted that goop off me and some warm clothes (particuarly UNDERWEAR) back on.
At the end of the day, babies are fine (1 lb 3 oz a piece), mom is fine, dad is awesome and Connor's eyes have returned to their normal, big brown size. They still haven't figured out what was causing the pain, but it was primarily on my right side, which took the brunt of the hit, so I may have just pulled something. I am in bed until it subsides, which it already has by a lot. I go to the doctor on Wednesday, and I feel so much better.
We really are blessed to live in a day and age where technology can help us through the scary times. So can prayer. And so can a great husband, and friends who texted me so much that the staff thought it was their machines beeping instead of me. (My apologies to the staff of Alta View, but my gratitude to good friends checking in every 5 minutes - again....technology!)
All is good. But no more running!
On Wednesday, I picked Connor up from daycare (Lonny works from home those days) and after I got him in the car (thankfully, so he wasn't a witness) he told me he forgot his toy so I ran back in to get it. Mistake #1 - going back for the stupid thing, which should have stayed at home in the first place. Mistake #2 - running. Pregnant women with kankles and cheeks that practially flutter when I am walking so just THINK about what they are doing when I am running (and yes, I mean BOTH sets) can't be an attractive. I won't go into the dirty details, but as I was hurrying back out to the car, I tripped in the hallway and fell. Face planted. Not pretty. No one saw me, but they did hear me as my keys and the stupid toy went flying and I am not confessing to anything here, but an expletive of some sort may or may not been involved. The staff couldn't have been nicer, but I was quite shaken up and teary. You know how when that happens, you don't want any sympathy or anyone to really talk to you for fear that you might burst into tears right then and there? Well they did and I did. It was just bad. By the time I got home I was practically in hysterics and my poor little boy who already has eyes as big as saucers, was pretty much, to quote an incredibly cheesy 80's Billy Idol song whose lyrics I still don't get, "Eyes Without a Face". Poor guy.
I was so scared and so worried that I had done something to hurt the girls (I mean the ones in utero, but I was a little concerned about the girl pillows too, as they have expanded in size as of late - I laugh out loud everytime someone asks me "How are the girls?" and I say "Which ones?" I'm soooo funny). Here's the kicker.....for every weird symptom, twinge, strange hair (just kidding, sorta) swollen finger, etc. I always look it up in "THE BOOK". You know the one...."What to Expect When You're Expecting" or one called "The Pregnancy Bible" that my friend Breezy gave me and is awesome. This time, I was so busy feeling sorry for myself, I never did CONSULT THE ORACLE about what to do when you wipe out.
Later that night, much to my relief, both Cocoa and Pebbles had checked in so I felt like everything was fine. My back hurt a little, but no other signs of injury, but my wounded pride. But around 3:30 a.m. (it's always then, right?) I started having some worrisome pain in my lower abdomen. A dull pain, but like a cramping sort of feeling. Off and on. Off and on. I decided I would call my dr. in the a.m. and just check in.
Went to work, still feeling a bit uneasy (listen to your gut, I always say, that's God talking to ya...but do I do it? HA) and finally had the chance to call the nurse. She freaked on me, asking me if I went to the hospital after the fall to get monitored (?) told me I could be having contractions and to get to Labor and Delivery immediately if not sooner! So, I grabbed Lonny and off we went.
I was taken in right away and had monitors strapped to me that would listen for the babies' hearts and one to check for contractions. Pretty scary because for a while, we could only hear Pebbles' heart. When we would check for Cocoa's....nothing. Then after hearing it and feeling relieved, the nurse says that it could still be Pebbles' heart...they could be too close together to tell. It's one of those "please God please God please God" moments when the bargaining starts. You know what I mean. After a while, everyone was pretty sure we could hear both of them seperately (whew) but they wanted to do an ultrasound to be sure. I have not spent a lot of my life in those backless gowns. Man, it was COLD. They took me over to radiology in a wheelchair (another thing I have not a lot of experience in). Lonny had been right by my side until just before that when he went to get us food. (My hunter and gatherer) He found us and we started the ultrasound. Right away there was that WHOOSH of relief as she announced that both of them had heartbeats and were moving. And I could sure feel them! Everytime she pressed the wand down, they would kick at it! It was like a game. Until Cocoa appeared to try and kick Pebbles right in the face. It's always fun til someone gets hurt! (I decided not to scold her because I was so happy she was okay.). It wasn't the best of circumstances for me, I couldn't see the monitor at all times, but Lonny got to see them head to toe. And they are just fine. In fact, their kicking has gone into overdrive ever since. I think they dug all the excitement. The ultrasound was over an HOUR long. I know that sounds like so much fun but after a while, I just wanted that goop off me and some warm clothes (particuarly UNDERWEAR) back on.
At the end of the day, babies are fine (1 lb 3 oz a piece), mom is fine, dad is awesome and Connor's eyes have returned to their normal, big brown size. They still haven't figured out what was causing the pain, but it was primarily on my right side, which took the brunt of the hit, so I may have just pulled something. I am in bed until it subsides, which it already has by a lot. I go to the doctor on Wednesday, and I feel so much better.
We really are blessed to live in a day and age where technology can help us through the scary times. So can prayer. And so can a great husband, and friends who texted me so much that the staff thought it was their machines beeping instead of me. (My apologies to the staff of Alta View, but my gratitude to good friends checking in every 5 minutes - again....technology!)
All is good. But no more running!
Monday, October 18, 2010
We Are Experiencing Technical Difficulties!
There has been much to share, but unfortunately, we are having some weird electronic failure phenomenon at our house lately! First the cable box was acting sorta hinky (I CANNOT have this - how am I going to watch "Glee" or "Project Runway"????!!!) and the computer starting mysteriously shutting down while you were working (er, facebooking) on it. One night while Lonny was working really hard in the garage, I came out and announced that our computer had officially bit it. He came in and tried to revive it, but the patient died on the table. (Moment of silence as we mourn this incredible loss, plus the fact that I may have to give up any Christmas gifts of the sparkly variety so we can pay for a new computer instead). Not a half hour later, I came running out to (tearfully) announce that the cable box had gone kaput. Again, he stops what he is doing to perform delicate surgery on the cable box. It would now turn on, but you couldn't change the channel! WHAT UP??? So, when you are stuck watching NBC, what better way to pass the time but to have something to eat? I went to warm myself up a snackily snack and what happens? THE MICROWAVE DIED. This is a true story, folks. So after going out again to give him the play by play on the gremlins that apparently taken over our home, (I started the sentence with "I am not EVEN kidding but......") Lonny again came in and luckily got that straightened out. Then back to the garage. It didn't even occur to me til later that while my husband was outside slaving away (without any offer of assistance from me) I had come out to complain that I couldn't a)sit on my expanding behind and Facebook b)sit on my expanding behind and watch t.v. or c) sit on my expanding behind while eating and watching my behind, well, expand. And he never pointed that out to me. I caught myself one good husband, that's for sure.
Columbus Day week-end, (and anyone who is not a Federal employee like my husband and I are thinking "What? When was THAT?!") we went up to Bryan Head Resort. It was supposed to be our fall leaf get away tour. Unforch, they had a storm that week that blew a lot of leaves out and a lot of snow in. Not exactly what I had in mind. But we were able to go to Cedar Breaks National Monument (yup, that is one big hole in the ground, folks) and drive through Cedar Canyon (please do this if you ever get the chance......it was INCREDIBLE and I got to see lots of beautiful colors). We went out to eat and played games in our room. We went swimming and hot tubbing (me, not so much). Connor and Lonny had a snowball fight. It was one of those trips that doesn't go exactly as planned, but we got to spend time together and that's what matters most of all.
I had the honor of going on a date with Connor on Saturday. I would post pictures, but a) did I mention that the computer had died? I am posting this from work, for heaven's sake and b) I pulled out the camera and the battery was dead (you can't make this stuff up, folks). We went out to lunch at Old McDonald's (that's what Connor calls Mickey D's...adorable, no?) and then we went to the Farnsworth Farm's Pumpkin Festival! Farnsworth Farms is primarily an apple orchard (which I am sure any day now will be razed to make room for more McMansions) and they make their own apple cider, which is simply, to die for. They also made hot homemade donuts. So we enjoyed plenty of that while playing carnival style games, playing in the play-yard, went on a hay ride (NO MORE bumpy trucks for me - everyone kept looking at me and my big belly with great alarm), bounced in the bounce house (after the hayride, I opted to sit this one out) and went to the pumpkin patch and picked out a pumpkin. The weather was perfect and Connor was an absolute gentleman.
We are now at 22 1/2 weeks and don't seem to be slowing down! I can now officially feel the girls moving around in there. Cocoa (Baby A) seems to be more active. I tell Lonny she will be our type A Harvard Law Grad who makes a bunch of money but never comes home to visit. Pebbles is much more laid back, just gives me a thump now and again to assure me she's still there. She will, of course, move to San Francisco, wear love beads and say things like "It's all good, Mom, it's all good". She'll probably teach yoga. Lonny just smiles at me. Anyway, they are close to having actual names, though Cocoa and Pebbles are starting to grow on me. Not ready to share them yet, though. I get to go to the doctor next week, so will hopefully have more pictures and more good news. I am feeling pretty good, kinda, well stretched at times. I have been sick more this trimester than last and even more tired. Which is a rip off because all I ever heard was that second trimester I would have more energy and would be positively glowing. Oh well. My fingers are swollen, so I had to take my ring off (sniff) and I have a little bit of the kankles going on as well. No more cute shoes. And if you need any further indication of how tired I am, I have foregone a pedicure three times now in favor of going home and taking a NAP. This is not like me, at all. Clearly, a couple of little gremlins have taken over my body, as well.
But most of all we are just really excited. I am excited for Connor to be a big brother. This has been my wish for him for so long, and we are almost there. I am excited to welcome these little beings into our home, though I have no idea what to do with them once they get here. Except love them a whole lot. And I am excited for them to meet all my wonderful friends and family who have been so supportive and who, in my opinion, helped them come into being. Not much longer.......
Hopefully all our little electronic glitches will be over soon. The cable box has already been replaced. I really just have to charge up the camera battery. And I do have a computer I can use. We will be back in business in no time!!
Columbus Day week-end, (and anyone who is not a Federal employee like my husband and I are thinking "What? When was THAT?!") we went up to Bryan Head Resort. It was supposed to be our fall leaf get away tour. Unforch, they had a storm that week that blew a lot of leaves out and a lot of snow in. Not exactly what I had in mind. But we were able to go to Cedar Breaks National Monument (yup, that is one big hole in the ground, folks) and drive through Cedar Canyon (please do this if you ever get the chance......it was INCREDIBLE and I got to see lots of beautiful colors). We went out to eat and played games in our room. We went swimming and hot tubbing (me, not so much). Connor and Lonny had a snowball fight. It was one of those trips that doesn't go exactly as planned, but we got to spend time together and that's what matters most of all.
I had the honor of going on a date with Connor on Saturday. I would post pictures, but a) did I mention that the computer had died? I am posting this from work, for heaven's sake and b) I pulled out the camera and the battery was dead (you can't make this stuff up, folks). We went out to lunch at Old McDonald's (that's what Connor calls Mickey D's...adorable, no?) and then we went to the Farnsworth Farm's Pumpkin Festival! Farnsworth Farms is primarily an apple orchard (which I am sure any day now will be razed to make room for more McMansions) and they make their own apple cider, which is simply, to die for. They also made hot homemade donuts. So we enjoyed plenty of that while playing carnival style games, playing in the play-yard, went on a hay ride (NO MORE bumpy trucks for me - everyone kept looking at me and my big belly with great alarm), bounced in the bounce house (after the hayride, I opted to sit this one out) and went to the pumpkin patch and picked out a pumpkin. The weather was perfect and Connor was an absolute gentleman.
We are now at 22 1/2 weeks and don't seem to be slowing down! I can now officially feel the girls moving around in there. Cocoa (Baby A) seems to be more active. I tell Lonny she will be our type A Harvard Law Grad who makes a bunch of money but never comes home to visit. Pebbles is much more laid back, just gives me a thump now and again to assure me she's still there. She will, of course, move to San Francisco, wear love beads and say things like "It's all good, Mom, it's all good". She'll probably teach yoga. Lonny just smiles at me. Anyway, they are close to having actual names, though Cocoa and Pebbles are starting to grow on me. Not ready to share them yet, though. I get to go to the doctor next week, so will hopefully have more pictures and more good news. I am feeling pretty good, kinda, well stretched at times. I have been sick more this trimester than last and even more tired. Which is a rip off because all I ever heard was that second trimester I would have more energy and would be positively glowing. Oh well. My fingers are swollen, so I had to take my ring off (sniff) and I have a little bit of the kankles going on as well. No more cute shoes. And if you need any further indication of how tired I am, I have foregone a pedicure three times now in favor of going home and taking a NAP. This is not like me, at all. Clearly, a couple of little gremlins have taken over my body, as well.
But most of all we are just really excited. I am excited for Connor to be a big brother. This has been my wish for him for so long, and we are almost there. I am excited to welcome these little beings into our home, though I have no idea what to do with them once they get here. Except love them a whole lot. And I am excited for them to meet all my wonderful friends and family who have been so supportive and who, in my opinion, helped them come into being. Not much longer.......
Hopefully all our little electronic glitches will be over soon. The cable box has already been replaced. I really just have to charge up the camera battery. And I do have a computer I can use. We will be back in business in no time!!
Monday, October 4, 2010
Happy Birthday, Mom
Today is my mom's 75th birthday. I like to think she and Daddy are taking care of our girls til they get here to us.
I love you Mom....kiss those precious angels for me and please see that they come to us safely.
I love you Mom....kiss those precious angels for me and please see that they come to us safely.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
5 Month Old Twin Belly
Cocoa and Pebbles are doing great! They are about the length of bananas now....and weigh about 10 ounces. We had our ultrasound on Monday and everyone seems to be in fine form! A little over 3 months to go.....
Monday, September 27, 2010
Happy Anniversary!
In September of 2001, it seemed like the whole world had gone crazy. I was right in the heart of making my big wedding plans when two planes flew into the World Trade Center and brought our country to it's knees.
It is times like those, that you appreciate the people you love and you count the many blessings that you have. I am fortunate to have a lot of both. But the biggest blessing to ever come into my life, is my incredible husband. Even when the world turns upside down....whether it's the whole world or just my own, he is my rock. He can handle girl tears like nobody's business (he is going to be the most amazing girl dad ever), take care of me and our Connor, be an incredible son and brother and is a wonderful example. He has always taken awesome care of me and now is certainly no exception. I am so happy that my father gave Lonny his enthusiastic blessing when he asked him if he could marry me.
We were married on September 28, 2001. In a time when there was much sorrow in our country, we decided to say that, hey - there is still MUCH JOY in life...and we didn't let anyone stop us.
Tomorrow marks our 9th anniversary. I know that it is but a short while. Especially when you think of forever. But in those 9 years, sometimes it seems like we have been through lifetimes. It has not always been an easy road, in fact there have been some very, very hard times. We have experienced a lot of loss. But what we have gained in each other, is priceless - and more than makes up for all of the pain. It seems, to quote Mary Chapin Carpenter, that everything we got we got the hard way. But in return we have received so much more. Strength, the blessing of learning to lean on another, faith, hope, parenthood and especially, each other.
Happy Anniversary, Lonny. I love you (and not just because you promised me a BIG TRIP for our 10th!!!) and I will love you more than you will ever know.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Think Pink!
You are probably thinking I am gearing up to give you a teensy reminder about Breast Cancer Awareness month in October, but not this time, gentle reader (although looks like I managed to squeeze it in anyway)!
Over the week-end, I played what I like to call the "No Gig Left Behind" tour....3 gigs in 24 hours. I was exhausted to say the least, and a little (no, a lot) teary. Really worried if I had overdone it to the point of hurting the babies, etc. Lonny, in his infinite wisdom, suggested we go to one of those fetal sonogram places (at the mall) so we could spend the money to give me some peace of mind (and hopefully find out what the babies are). Kind of silly, considering I have an appointment next Monday, but I doubt I could have lasted a week. So off we went last night and we are pleased and excited to announce (in case you haven't already guessed....)
WE ARE EXPECTING TWO LITTLE GIRLS!!!!
I am so excited to go shopping! The nursery will have to have a complete overhaul (it is still blue from our little lost boy) and there are lots of other things to do, but we are happy to do it all. Connor, is pretty pleased with himself - he guessed two girls from the beginning.
It was another wonderful experience. It would appear that we woke them up....Baby A was rubbing her face with her hands and Baby B actually yawned for us. And it was such a relief to know they can keep up with their rock and roll mom...even though I solemnly vow to never rock that hard again. Baby B is a teensy bit bigger than Baby A, but they are right on target. We appreciate all of the love and support....we are halfway there now! Please keep the prayers coming.
Over the week-end, I played what I like to call the "No Gig Left Behind" tour....3 gigs in 24 hours. I was exhausted to say the least, and a little (no, a lot) teary. Really worried if I had overdone it to the point of hurting the babies, etc. Lonny, in his infinite wisdom, suggested we go to one of those fetal sonogram places (at the mall) so we could spend the money to give me some peace of mind (and hopefully find out what the babies are). Kind of silly, considering I have an appointment next Monday, but I doubt I could have lasted a week. So off we went last night and we are pleased and excited to announce (in case you haven't already guessed....)
WE ARE EXPECTING TWO LITTLE GIRLS!!!!
I am so excited to go shopping! The nursery will have to have a complete overhaul (it is still blue from our little lost boy) and there are lots of other things to do, but we are happy to do it all. Connor, is pretty pleased with himself - he guessed two girls from the beginning.
It was another wonderful experience. It would appear that we woke them up....Baby A was rubbing her face with her hands and Baby B actually yawned for us. And it was such a relief to know they can keep up with their rock and roll mom...even though I solemnly vow to never rock that hard again. Baby B is a teensy bit bigger than Baby A, but they are right on target. We appreciate all of the love and support....we are halfway there now! Please keep the prayers coming.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Time for a new season of Tee Ball! Connor is on the Rays this fall. They had their first game against the Rangers on Tuesday. He is doing much better at staying engaged, but still likes to chatter to his mom and dad alot on the sidelines. He has a great coach and other dads who are out there helping out, so Lonny got to acutally sit and watch the first game! These guys are great...they are so good with the kids! We heart Tee Ball!!!
And Connor runs to home!
And Connor runs to home!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
9/11
Also, want to be serious for a moment and acknowledge what today is...and what it means. It is about never forgetting, it is about knowing that we are all the children of our Heavenly Father and we can never know what His plan is for us...or sometimes understand it. It is about knowing that we live in a beautiful, mighty, forgiving nation filled with good people of all religions and faiths - the best one in the world if you ask me. It is about being called to action or knowing when it's time to say "Let's Roll"...( or I will "Go and Do") even though you are terrified and you know the odds are against you and that you very well may die. It is about HEROES. It is not about hate, it is not about burning holy books -no matter what your opinion of that book may be, burning flags and promoting death.
To those who lost their lives this day 9 years ago, we will never forget...you will not have died in vain. To those who worked so feverishly at Ground Zero and to those who lost love ones that terrible day, you are cherished in our country and in our thoughts and prayers today. God Bless You.
WE WILL NOT FORGET
To those who lost their lives this day 9 years ago, we will never forget...you will not have died in vain. To those who worked so feverishly at Ground Zero and to those who lost love ones that terrible day, you are cherished in our country and in our thoughts and prayers today. God Bless You.
WE WILL NOT FORGET
Gigs Galore!
I have a lot of performances coming up this week! Thought I would share with you in case you are looking for plans next week-end!
Friday, September 17th - 8:00 - 9:30: Atomic Amy Band will be teaming up with a GREAT local band, The Neighbors, at Jordan's Landing. I haven't been to the venue, but I understand it is outside on a lawn area and that you bring lawn chairs and chill. The Neighbors do similar music to us, the classic rock genre. They have been around 100 years (or it just seems like it, ha ha, sorry guys) and they are sooooo good.
And then on to the DOUBLE HEADER:
Saturday, September 18th - 10:00 - 12:00: Wally Cleaver will be playing at Daybreak! This is just like the concert I did there last year, only with a different band. Not many of you have ever had the opportunity to see me with this group. We don't play very often and it's ussually private events. It is 50's - 80's music. I don't know how much longer I will be with them now that AA/SR is starting to play a lot. Plus with 3 kids? Time to simplify! But if you would like to come check it out....this is always a fun one.
Saturday, September 18th 4:00 - whenever I feel like I am gonna drop: 9th and 9th Street Festival! We are super excited about this. We didn't get to play the Avenues this year, but we have this opportunity instead! I have never gone, but it sounds super fun - they even have us advertised on their website, so they must be excited about us too!
http://www.9thand9thstreetfestival.com/
Come on out and enjoy some live music! Not many more chances before we are all indoor bound!
Friday, September 17th - 8:00 - 9:30: Atomic Amy Band will be teaming up with a GREAT local band, The Neighbors, at Jordan's Landing. I haven't been to the venue, but I understand it is outside on a lawn area and that you bring lawn chairs and chill. The Neighbors do similar music to us, the classic rock genre. They have been around 100 years (or it just seems like it, ha ha, sorry guys) and they are sooooo good.
And then on to the DOUBLE HEADER:
Saturday, September 18th - 10:00 - 12:00: Wally Cleaver will be playing at Daybreak! This is just like the concert I did there last year, only with a different band. Not many of you have ever had the opportunity to see me with this group. We don't play very often and it's ussually private events. It is 50's - 80's music. I don't know how much longer I will be with them now that AA/SR is starting to play a lot. Plus with 3 kids? Time to simplify! But if you would like to come check it out....this is always a fun one.
Saturday, September 18th 4:00 - whenever I feel like I am gonna drop: 9th and 9th Street Festival! We are super excited about this. We didn't get to play the Avenues this year, but we have this opportunity instead! I have never gone, but it sounds super fun - they even have us advertised on their website, so they must be excited about us too!
http://www.9thand9thstreetfestival.com/
Come on out and enjoy some live music! Not many more chances before we are all indoor bound!
Friday, September 3, 2010
No Go Baby Show
We had our ultrasound today, hoping we could see what types of little firecrackers we are dealing with.....unfortunately, we cannot tell with 100% certainty, but here's what we know:
Baby A - The doctor is 80% sure that it is a little girl! This will make Connor (and her daddy) very happy!!
Baby B - We are 100% sure it is......a BABY!!! The doctor THINKS it's a boy, but can't even make a guess because Baby B had the umbilical cord between his legs. He (I am sure it is a boy) did look at the camera at one point and lifted his little legs up and CROSSED them (further evidence it is a boy - a trouble maker already) and wiggled his toes.
It is exciting to see their little personalities! And I remembered to ask for a print out so I can share those as soon as I get to a scanner. I go back in 3 weeks and meet with the ultrasound tech so hopefully we will have a better idea then.
We'll keep you posted!
We are so happy to know that we are all doing well. The doctor described the babies as "perfect" and said he didn't have one little concern about me, so everything is progressing beautifully. We are again, so grateful to our Father in Heaven and for all the prayers and support we are receiving. No matter what they are, these babies are LOVED!!!
Baby A - The doctor is 80% sure that it is a little girl! This will make Connor (and her daddy) very happy!!
Baby B - We are 100% sure it is......a BABY!!! The doctor THINKS it's a boy, but can't even make a guess because Baby B had the umbilical cord between his legs. He (I am sure it is a boy) did look at the camera at one point and lifted his little legs up and CROSSED them (further evidence it is a boy - a trouble maker already) and wiggled his toes.
It is exciting to see their little personalities! And I remembered to ask for a print out so I can share those as soon as I get to a scanner. I go back in 3 weeks and meet with the ultrasound tech so hopefully we will have a better idea then.
We'll keep you posted!
We are so happy to know that we are all doing well. The doctor described the babies as "perfect" and said he didn't have one little concern about me, so everything is progressing beautifully. We are again, so grateful to our Father in Heaven and for all the prayers and support we are receiving. No matter what they are, these babies are LOVED!!!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
I Stole This....
from Lacie's blog. It's my adorable little man with his cute cousin Callie. He is getting practice being a big brother....he sooooo wants a baby sister! Keep your fingers crossed (and a few toes wouldn't hurt either) that we can find out on Friday!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Well, Shucks, Since You Asked
Seems there are those who would like a few more details on our little apples (I found a website that compares the size of your baby to produce..I am a very visual person so this is much more helpful then centimeters or even inches!). I am happy to provide you with what we know....
-I am in my 15th week.
-Little fuzzy on the exact due date. If it were a single, it would be February 16th
but I will go about 5-6 weeks before. I am going to have a C-section (hopefully scheduled) and I know that doctor does them on Monday. So by my calculation, we are having them on 1/10/11 (I know, I tried for 1/11/11 but it probably won't work). My goal is to get to 35 weeks.
-I have thus far only barfed once! But I do frequently get queasy, especially if I am overly tired and/or hot.
-My b**bs hurt like nobodies b**by business!
-I am tired pretty much all the time. At work, I take little naps in one of the witness rooms. They have graciously given me my own key! Thanks Judge Stewart!!!
-We don't know the genders. I have an appointment next week, and am hoping they will be feeling particularly show offity. If not, looks like I will have to wait.
-I am a dummy! I get an ultra sound every time I go to the doctor, but keep forgetting to ask for pictures!!!
-We found out we are pregnant on Flag Day (June 14). So we are feeling more than a little patriotic ;)
-We found out it was twins about a week and a half later when I had a little scary emergency...turned out to be a happy occasion very quickly (as soon as we picked Lonny up off the floor)
-We told our family on Father's Day. We let Connor announce it.
-Connor wants a girl, preferably two.
-Mommy would like one of each.
-But really, Mommy is so happy she does not care.
-We are in complete denial about how our lives will be turned upside down.
-I am totally trying to take things one day at a time....we need lots of prayers because we have a long way to go. This has been a difficult, yet exciting journey. And I am just trying to move slowly and enjoy it!
-We are beyond joy.
-We welcome any other questions!!
We are so thankful to Heavenly Father - and everyone who has been praying for us (even when you didn't know what you were praying for!!!)
-I am in my 15th week.
-Little fuzzy on the exact due date. If it were a single, it would be February 16th
but I will go about 5-6 weeks before. I am going to have a C-section (hopefully scheduled) and I know that doctor does them on Monday. So by my calculation, we are having them on 1/10/11 (I know, I tried for 1/11/11 but it probably won't work). My goal is to get to 35 weeks.
-I have thus far only barfed once! But I do frequently get queasy, especially if I am overly tired and/or hot.
-My b**bs hurt like nobodies b**by business!
-I am tired pretty much all the time. At work, I take little naps in one of the witness rooms. They have graciously given me my own key! Thanks Judge Stewart!!!
-We don't know the genders. I have an appointment next week, and am hoping they will be feeling particularly show offity. If not, looks like I will have to wait.
-I am a dummy! I get an ultra sound every time I go to the doctor, but keep forgetting to ask for pictures!!!
-We found out we are pregnant on Flag Day (June 14). So we are feeling more than a little patriotic ;)
-We found out it was twins about a week and a half later when I had a little scary emergency...turned out to be a happy occasion very quickly (as soon as we picked Lonny up off the floor)
-We told our family on Father's Day. We let Connor announce it.
-Connor wants a girl, preferably two.
-Mommy would like one of each.
-But really, Mommy is so happy she does not care.
-We are in complete denial about how our lives will be turned upside down.
-I am totally trying to take things one day at a time....we need lots of prayers because we have a long way to go. This has been a difficult, yet exciting journey. And I am just trying to move slowly and enjoy it!
-We are beyond joy.
-We welcome any other questions!!
We are so thankful to Heavenly Father - and everyone who has been praying for us (even when you didn't know what you were praying for!!!)
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Double Vision
Lately, I have had twins on my mind....
Minnesota Twins....
Twin Falls.....
Twin Cities.....
Twins in My Tummy!
SURPRISE!! We are pregnant with TWINS!!!
As I am sure you can imagine, we are over the moon!!
Due in January. We just saw them on Tuesday and everyone is doing well. Please keep us in your prayers that I will have a safe and healthy pregnancy and delivery. And that I won't outgrow the house!!!
Minnesota Twins....
Twin Falls.....
Twin Cities.....
Twins in My Tummy!
SURPRISE!! We are pregnant with TWINS!!!
As I am sure you can imagine, we are over the moon!!
Due in January. We just saw them on Tuesday and everyone is doing well. Please keep us in your prayers that I will have a safe and healthy pregnancy and delivery. And that I won't outgrow the house!!!
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Another Adoption Miracle!!!
So excited for the cute Holmberg family, Jared, Chris and Gavin. They have welcomed a beautiful little boy into their hearts and lives through adoption!! Emmett Adam Holmberg was born yesterday at 11:34 and weighed in 7 lbs, 8 oz and 20 inches long. He is sooooo sweet! Please keep them in your prayers. Emmett does have a little pneumonia and will have to be kept in the hospital while they work that out. Also, just prayers and good thoughts that the process will go smoothly as they adjust to being new parents again, and for the birth family - who always need lots of prayers at times like these. I cannot express how happy I am for this darling family....this has been a long road for them and to know they have this little blessing in their lives makes my heart want to burst! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Gallivan Plaza
We had a GREAT time rockin the Gallivan Center this last week for the Lunch Bunch Concert Series!! We even got a few future gigs out of the deal. Thank you so much to all my family (Mom, Lance and Marcy) and friends (too many to name) who came out to support us!
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Icy Cool
Last night I was enjoying a certain yummy frozen treat....ice cream! Connor wanted a taste, and took to big of one. You know what that means....BRAIN FREEZE!!! After shuddering violently for a moment, he looks up at me and says:
"Wow! It's like WINTER in my mouth!!!!"
Isn't that exactly what it feels like?
"Wow! It's like WINTER in my mouth!!!!"
Isn't that exactly what it feels like?
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Ginnie's Sweet Little Arrival
My cute friend Ginnie, her husband Nate and adorable Abrie, Kaleb and Macie all welcomed the arrival of Baby Girl Johnson yesterday! She is beautiful (I saw a picture!) and was 6 lbs 14 oz, 19 inches long. No announcement as far as name goes (although I am SURE she is considering Amy) but whatever her name is, it will be perfect. Congratulations to the Johnsons!!!!
PS - Check out her blog to see her doing amazing Karate Kid feats the day before the baby arrives!!! Yike, Girl!
UPDATE: BABY GIRL IS EDEN DOROTHY....BEAUTIFUL NAME FOR A BEAUTIFUL BABY!!!!
PS - Check out her blog to see her doing amazing Karate Kid feats the day before the baby arrives!!! Yike, Girl!
UPDATE: BABY GIRL IS EDEN DOROTHY....BEAUTIFUL NAME FOR A BEAUTIFUL BABY!!!!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Lake Powell
These pictures are hot off the presses....Lonny and Connor left me for an entire week and a day to go down south and play in the 190 degree weather at Lake Powell. Sadly, I have to stay home in the 68 degree house, forced to read books, watch girlie movies without any noise at all. Sigh. Lonny sent these pictures to me last night....It makes me so happy to see them having so much fun!!!
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