kelly's blog sans christmas tree

March 26th-29th (58 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2010-03-29T18:31:00.001-05:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

March 19th-26th (116 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2010-03-26T12:44:00.001-05:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

March 1st-18th (102 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2010-03-22T13:35:00.001-05:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

since my sister refuses to be on facebook!

2010-03-05T09:33:00.001-06:00

ok...i give up!

2010-01-22T11:07:00.002-06:00

I was trying to put a really cute valentines background, but I kept getting this annoying christmas tree on there too...obviously I don't know exactly what I am doing with HTML...HA! well...here's some pics with Jonah in his glasses 8) & a "sleeping baby" pic because they are sooooo sweet!

new glasses

2010-01-21T09:40:00.002-06:00

well...this is officially day 3 for Jonah's new glasses. For those of you that didn't know, we found out last week that Jonah is very farsighted and if we don't try to correct it with glasses it could mean surgery in the future. So there are a few snapshots of the little dude with his new specs on. ps he totally HATES wearing them. We are forever trying to beat his fast hands up to his glasses and hold them on while he is ripping them off. Most times, he wins and I figure it isn't worth a huge battle, or he will just HATE them more! :) So yesterday he probably wore them for about 3-4 hours total, which I figure isn't too bad. Today we are starting off a bit rocky, but we'll see right!?! :)

Jan 9th-20th (99 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2010-01-21T09:38:00.001-06:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

Jonah's 1 year (98 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2010-01-16T09:14:00.001-06:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

Jonah's 1 year!!!

2010-01-09T08:32:00.006-06:00

I really meant to post something on Jonah's birthday, but just didn't get to it. I have been feeling really nostalgic over the last week. I just cannot believe it has already been 1 year. It is so amazing to see how much Jonah is learning each day and to reflect on how much he has changed in the last month, much less the last year. This year has flown by and I am so very proud to have such an amazing son.

I am looking forward to watch him grow and develop more of his personality. At this point, I would describe him as being sweet, patient, kind, persistent, determined, and inquisitive. He is very attached to his Mama, but he thinks his daddy is just about the funniest guy around. He really likes to read books, look at pictures of our family and especially himself :), he loves to open the cabinets and pull out whatever happens to be inside. Jonah would rather play with cords and the computer keyboard and remote controls than baby toys. He even has his own remote and cordless phone (but he prefers ours because they actually work!) Jonah likes his puppies and he is very gentle (usually) with them, and loves when Bella gets "the buzz" and is running around like crazy. His favorite food is crackers, and would eat as many as we would give him! :) He also loves papaya, mandarin oranges, sweet potatoes, squash, and peas. He says mama and Dada, but not too much else although he is doing a ton of babbling, and I am sure he knows just what he is saying, I am not sure quite yet :)

Jonah has really just started to be really good at crawling on all 4s within the last month. He loves to stand up next to furniture and walk along it too. He is starting to get really brave and let go for a few seconds and just stand next to something...what a show-off! He pushes his high-chair around the kitchen walking behind it, but won't try to walk just holding our hands quite yet. He made it all the way up the basement stairs for the 1st time the other day by himself, but needs to work on learning how to go down too! :)

Jonah LOVES bath time...if he hears the tub faucet turn on, no matter what he is doing, he will drop it and head for the bathroom. He tries to get in, even with his clothes on :) And would stay in there all day if we let him.

He has the greatest smile, and is generally a pretty happy guy!
We are so proud of him, and blessed to be his parents!

Jan 3rd-8th (237 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2010-01-09T08:27:00.001-06:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

Dec 17th-Jan 2nd (281 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2010-01-09T08:26:00.001-06:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

album 12\16\2009 (116 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-12-16T17:10:00.001-06:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

Nov 2nd-12th (73 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-11-24T09:57:00.001-06:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

Jonah 9 month (13 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-11-16T14:09:00.001-06:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

Oct. 22nd-Nov 2nd (199 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-11-04T10:59:00.001-06:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

Oct. 12th-21st (325 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-10-22T15:08:00.001-05:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.

fall festival (28 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-09-28T15:21:00.001-05:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.

being present

2009-09-23T17:18:00.002-05:00

I have not actually taken the time to sit down and blog anything in a long time. this is because I have been very busy with work/photography/life. but also when I do have a moment to catch my breath, I want to be totally present in what I am doing. Whether it is catching up with a friend on the phone, or just playing outide with Jonah, I have learned that although I can get more done, mulitasking isn't always the best policy. It takes away from the things that are the most important.

In recent weeks, there has been times of great joy, but also deep sadness within our family. As you can see from my photos we have spent time with family, and traveled some. Jonah has been doing great and rolling with the punches, so to speak. So it has been great to do those things, but there has also been serious things going on.

My aunt was diagnosed with cancer this summer, and passed away several weeks ago. This happened very suddenly and it sort of makes you step back, and take stock of what is important. Although we were unable to attend her funeral, I learned alot about her and her character. She loved the unlovely (direct quote from my mom). She was deeply devoted to those she cared about. I think that is very admirable. What I have decided is the "take-home" message from the whole experience is that you need to pay attention, and be present in all circumstances, to learn all you can from people. and love the unlovely. most of all, I think it is so important to make peace with all circumstances in your life. this is not to say it is possible to make peace with all people in your life, but to come to terms with it in your heart. And realize what is important in this world are the people who love you and that you love and don't take that for granted.

I guess this is a very reflective post. That's what happens when the person you hang out with all the time can't talk back to you...:)

Sept 2nd-20th (166 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-09-22T07:46:00.001-05:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.

Aug 25th-Sept 1st (115 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-09-22T07:44:00.001-05:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.

perfect evening

2009-09-01T10:52:00.003-05:00

last night was the perfect evening in my book...just the weather. no breeze, not too hot (about 71 degrees), a slight crispness to the air that only happens this time of year, there were no clouds in the sky, very few bugs flying around. just perfect. thank you Lord for perfect evenings!

Aug 23rd-24th (29 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-08-24T14:52:00.002-05:00

this little princess is my friend Lindsey's latest addition! Jonah and I went to see them in the hospital yesterday...she is sooo cute!
towards the end of the slideshow are a few from this morning of Jonah...BIG SMILE!

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.

Aug 21st-23rd (12 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-08-24T14:06:00.001-05:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.

Aug. 10-16th (42 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-08-23T21:25:00.005-05:00

no, I have not gotten into canning or anything...we bought a LUG of peaches from youth for christ and we had so many left over, I made Jonah some pureed peaches...he thought they were pretty yummy!

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.

Jonah's 6 month (58 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-08-23T21:25:00.004-05:00

Here are the few 6 month photos I did of Jonah...he was sick, I was busy working and taking other's pics so this is what we got. hopefully the 9 month ones will turn out a little better (happier baby)

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.

Aug 17th-20th (44 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-08-23T21:24:00.001-05:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.

photos and such from July 9th-August 9th

2009-08-10T10:13:00.002-05:00

Oh my, where does the time go? I cannot believe that it is already almost the middle of August!!! Between work, play, and in the last week taking care of 2 very sick boys...I have not had any time to myself to blog! Here are the pictures from the last month. Jonah can now pretty much roll over...he gets stuck on his shoulder alot. He likes to be outside...when he gets grumpy we go outside. I am pretty sure that we all had/have influenza or some other nasty bug. Jonah started with it on wednesday. The pediatritian must have been pretty concerned when I brought him in because he called me at home that night at 7 and the next morning also. He is pretty much back to normal minus a cough and a low grade temp. Dean was very under the weather...he campped out downstairs in his "cave" and had a fever of 102.5 for pretty much all of Thursday and Friday. We are starting to get back to normal...which involves alot of cleaning and disinfecting!!! Me...I weathered the storm and just got a cough and runny nose...mom's have to be tough :)

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.

June 11th-29th (187 photos), by Kelly Meyer

2009-07-09T14:08:00.001-05:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
http://www2.snapfish.com/fbshareredirect/p=48391247166484350/l=2628485008/g=34945447/redirectURL=share/otsi=SALBBL/AlbumID=1311316008/a=34945447_34945447/usercomments=I_xqd%20like%20to%20share%20my%20Snapfish%20photos%20with%20you.%20Once%20you%20have%20checked%20out%20my%20photos%20you%20can%20order%20prints%20and%20upload%20your%20own%20photos%20to%20share./counttext=187%20photos/COBRAND_NAME=snapfish

update & pictures from June 30th-July 9th

2009-07-09T11:47:00.002-05:00

Ok, I guess there might be some good things about snapfish still...like being able to post things right to my blog...so here is the very latest...like this morning included! By the way, Jonah celebrated his 1st 1/2 birthday a couple days ago by getting his 1st tooth! You can't see it yet, but you sure can feel it when he chomps on you! He has started sitting up for a little while without too much help...still not rolling over, though I think it is because he is so big! He had his 6 month checkup...he is a whopping 19 lbs, 9 oz and 26 inches...such a big boy!!! His head is larger than they make the growth chart...he actually had a head ultrasound because it is so big. Turns out he just has one heck of a big head! :)

I had an appointment with Dr. J. yesterday...bad news, new bleeding...grrr! Got another shot, but you know, it doesn't hurt too bad at all today...so that's good.

Tomorrow is our 5th anniversary...wow...5 years! I have to work, but then we are going to go out to eat and Jon and Amanda are going to watch Jonah!

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
http://www2.snapfish.com/fbshareredirect/p=49691247157930246/l=2625578008/g=34945447/redirectURL=share/otsi=SALBBL/AlbumID=1322317008/a=34945447_34945447/usercomments=I_xqd%20like%20to%20share%20my%20Snapfish%20photos%20with%20you.%20Once%20you%20have%20checked%20out%20my%20photos%20you%20can%20order%20prints%20and%20upload%20your%20own%20photos%20to%20share./counttext=123%20photos/COBRAND_NAME=snapfish

our country's birthday

2009-07-04T13:19:00.002-05:00

I love the 4th of July...it is so summer to me. I don't feel like it is really summer till the 4th and also the street fair. This summer is not really an exception. I got my 1st mosquito bite yesterday on the way out to my car from Target...grrr! I have to work all the major spring/summer holidays this year (easter, memorial day, 4th of july, and labor day). It is a bummer...but hey what do you do? So maybe this, like last year will never feel like summer to me. Last year at this time I was starting to feel sooooo sick from being pregnant that I never went outside all summer except to water my flowers and even that was challenging. I am really looking forward to going to fireworks with Jonah and experiencing that for the 1st time...I am sure he will probably sleep through them. (either that or totally melt down ha!) but you don't know till you try.

We started oatmeal cereal a couple weeks ago after rice cereal was a total flop and what do you know, Jonah loves it! We are actually going to start real baby food soon. I went and picked some up yesterday after work...they have lots of organic choices, so I was really happy to see that. I think it is important to eat as organic as you are able to...and with baby food it is pretty simple.

Happy Birthday America!!!

new phone

2009-06-20T21:09:00.000-05:00

i got a new phone that can go online today! this post is being created on my new phone! I heart techonology

today we gave Jonah his 1st taste of solids, he didn't care for it. it was pretty funny actually, we recorded it. but I can.t post it with this phone, there limitations people! ha!

going green(ish)

2009-06-19T20:16:00.002-05:00

I am interested in the whole going green movement. Partly to do my part, but also partly to save money. The last 2 times I have gone to the grocery store, instead of driving I have walked. This is not only good for the enviroment, but also my wallet. I don't have to spend the money on gas, I don't have to get Jonah in and out of the car, and I can only buy what I can carry home. The first day I was really the "earth mother" type, using a baby carrier and everything. Today, I pushed the stroller because I needed to get a few more things, and I knew I wouldn't be able to carry them all. So, although I have not totally embraced the green movement, I walked to the grocery store, and used my reusable bags to bring the goods home in. We also have a compost pile, but now I am just bragging, HA! ;)

missin u

2009-06-13T09:43:00.001-05:00

I am missing my baby like crazy!!!

infrequent posts + busy life =

2009-06-05T19:44:00.002-05:00

boring blog!
sorry this blog is pretty boring these days. :)
I worked all week, and between trying to keep my housework under control somewhat and spending time with my boys and working on some pictures (a recent session), I am not finding alot of extra time to blog.
I am tired, like really tired. I feel like all of my energy has been zapped from me. I can't even blame the baby, because he has been pretty much sleeping through the night. Maybe I am just in a funk, or fighting off a bug...but I hate feeling this way. I don't feel like myself. It is annoying.
I need to keep working on pictures, but I just wanted to give a shout out to my blog readers.
ps
I did get my flowers planted
pps
jonah is now in 6-12 month clothes for the most part...what a big boy!

TGIF!

2009-05-29T06:49:00.003-05:00

This week has been kind of hectic...yesterday in particular! Jonah had a rough night...just up and crying. I would put his pacifier back in his mouth and he would drift back off, till the paci fell out, then we would start all over. So mommy & daddy did not get great rest! Then I got up for work at 5:45. I got ready, and went downstairs to get a pop...and the rug in the bathroom was soggy. So turned on the light and the floor was covered in water. So I went to wake Dean up and Jonah was awake too. So Dean went down to address the flood in our basement and I got Jonah up to change him. I called work, because it was pretty obvious I was going to be late. I gave Jonah his prilosec and got him going with baby einstein. I love how even though he was screaming in bed, he is so happy once you get him out of there. Ha! Anyway, Dean was bringing loads of wet towels, rugs, and other misc. wet things out to the deck to dry off. As it turns out our ancient water heater developed a hole in it and sprung a leak. However, Dean pointed it out that the timing of it was a blessing, as it is cleanup week next week...so we don't have to store it for a year...so good timing as far as that goes. So I finally got to work, and it was a CRAZY day! So last night when I got home, after picking up Jonah at Grandma's house, I sunk into bed, only to remember that I needed to get up to unload/reload the dishwasher and fire it up so my baby had clean bottles today! :)
Ok...after reviewing that I am tired again!!! I don't have any pics to share right now, but I will try to post a video later...Jonah learned to make a new noise! :) you'll just have to wait to see what it is!
Here's to hoping to day is better than yesterday!
Oh, and
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD! (it's my dad's birthday!)

not much new

2009-05-23T12:27:00.009-05:00

So here's the latest pictures! :)

Little Sailor Man

all smiles!

4 month shots...ouch!

Daddy & Jonah

let's call this one, the "Pre-Bath Soak" (mommy!) ;)

haven't spent much time in my bumbo, my head is pretty heavy...I don't think I like this very much!

I really don't have alot of new stuff going on right now, I have been working 12's, but I did get off from 7-3 today. Which was a blessing because Dean left to go fishing last night, so I was going to have to bring Jonah over to grandma's house at 5:45 this morning...I have to be to work around 6 or so. So we have just been hanging out doing laundry. He has been way more spitty the last week, since he got his shots I think. So he has been going through his collection of bibs/burp rags faster than usual. Also about 3 plus outfits per day. We did up his dose of prilosec, because he has gained so much weight, he outgrew his dose!!! What a big fellow! :)

4 month checkup

2009-05-19T06:23:00.002-05:00

We went to Dr. Welle yesterday. This is our new peds doc. Dean and I both liked him and bottom line he is a good doctor and we were comfortable with him, so that is what is important. Jonah is doing great, "perfect baby" were his words to be exact. He did say that he feels he has a pretty severe case of GERD, but it seems to be pretty well controlled. He did ask us if we keep him elevated after feedings (we do) and if we have him sleeping at at least a 30 degree incline on his back (we do). So we got points for that! :)

Jonah has obviously done well on the "ad-lib" feedings and although he has been spitting up like crazy, alot of it must be "sticking" because he is up to a whopping 17 lbs, 7.2 ounces (86th percentile). He is up to the 24th percentile for height (24 inches) and his head is gianormous at 45 cm (97th percentile)...no wonder his hats seem a bit snug!

I also tried to bring bella and Dan to the vet yesterday (with Jonah)...yikes! I did have to call Dean to meet me there. Bella got out of her collar and dan was on my lap trying to eat another dog and Jonah was getting cranky after his shots! It must have been a sight!!! :) Bella has a strained ACL so rest and relaxation for her is the doctors order. Hopefully it doesnt get worse and tear because then she would need surgery! poor bella!

need a good cry?

2009-05-15T07:37:00.005-05:00

sometiimes I just need a good cry, and not about my own life. here is a blog site that will most certainly bring tears to your eyes. I was sobbing but, hen again it's maybe because it hit a little too close to home. As with any blog it starts with the most recent posts, but you can go to the archive to skim through and get the summary of their journey. www.kayleighannefreeman.blogspot.com/

Another recent experience that I can't really share has reminded me just how fragile life is. I want to live each day to its fullest, love with no reservations, and when the day is done, have no regrets. So, I am going to hold my baby when he wants to be held & spend intentional time with my husband (the dishes and laundry aren't goin anywhere!) Certain situations bring what is important in life, into clear focus. And for me, that is my 2 boys. I cannot imagine life without either one of them. I don't know what I did to deserve such amazing blessings, but the Lord is good!

dedication video

2009-05-13T10:59:00.005-05:00

This is a video of the baby dedication part of the service on sunday. We were so very encouraged and blessed by all the people that came to support Jonah & us as we dedicated him and our little family to follow in God's footsteps. It is our hope that when Jonah gets old enough to make a choice for himself that he can draw from the experiences he has had with us and our extended family that show him how much God loves him and desires a personal relationship with him. That he may live, love, and lead like Christ.

Jonah's 3 month pix

2009-05-10T21:48:00.004-05:00

better late than never right? ;)
we had a wonderful weekend! my grandma & uncle wally came to town on Friday night & met Jonah for the 1st time. We call her "G.G." (short for great grandma)
Heidi and Aaron flew in from Ft. Collins very late Friday night, but we didn't actually get to spend any time with them till Sat night b/c Heidi had finals this week to study for. (and they already turned around & went home :( On Sat my grandpa & (step)grandma came to town *hi JoAnne!*
And we all got together for dinner @ my parent's house. Of course Jon & Amanda were there too.

This morning we dedicated Jonah at church & to our crowd we added my Aunt Chelle, Mark & Travis. And Dean's whole family too. It was great to see everyone, but a little overwhelming considering I'm pretty sure I had my 1st migrane. grrrr!

Jonah was soooo good today! He barely made a peep! I just love him to pieces & I am so proud to be his mommy! I know I was a little disappointed when I found out he wasn't a girl, but now I can't imagine it any other way! He & the dogs got me an endless summer hydrangea for mothers day. love it!

jonah loves to talk

2009-04-28T10:05:00.003-05:00

we just don't always understand it! :)

Jonah update

2009-04-26T17:11:00.007-05:00

Well...last Tuesday we had our appointment with the ped GI doctor.
first off, Jonah weighs 14lbs 8oz (62nd percentile), is 23.5 inches long (11th percentile), & his mellon is in the 70th percentile!

The doctor was super nice, & did validate what we have been going through. That was really nice because every time I turn around people are discounting his symptoms & saying he will just outgrow it. As a first time mom having people always telling you are wrong & basically they know what is right for your kid more than you do is a bit frustrating. Not only has it created a lot of internal conflict, but also some between Dean & I. So, long story short it was nice to talk to someone who isn't thinking it is something we are or aren't doing.

Our regular pediatrician was on the right track with the prilosec, but the dose was far too small. The gi guy tripled the dose and also told us that if over time (as Jonah is gaining weight) it seems to not work as well that he will up the dose over the phone. He also said that we should stay on the hypoallergenic formula as things have gotten better on it. He also does not want us to start any rice cereal till we see him again at 6 months old.

He did disagree with our pediatrician on several things, but the main thing was how we have been feeding him. Dr. H (the pediatrician) told us to feed Jonah small frequent meals so his system could move the food through easier. He went as far as suggesting 2 ounces every hour and a half to two hours. That just wasn't practical, so we were doing 4 ounces every 3 hours. (he was gaining weight on this so I was fine with it.) Most of the time that seemed ok, but there were times he would still be hungry afterwards. I attributed this to his reflux being a 'comfort eater...where he knows it felt good going down at whatever the cost later (which I still think played a major role) but, sometimes he could have taken another ounce or so. But, being a little desperate for Jonah to not be in pain I stuck to the 4 ounces only. The GI guy said that a breastfed baby never has an ounce limit & he wants to mimic breastfeeding with bottle feeding. So even though this formula is double the cost, we are feeding 'ad-lib'. The most he has done is six oz, and he usually spits up more with the larger feeds, but he seems more satisified.

After these changes that we have made, he is a different baby!!! It actually worked! I attribute the biggest change to the appropriate dose of prilosec. I mean really...I wouldn't expect if I took 1/2 a tylenol for a bad headache that I would feel better would I???

So life is great now, Jonah is so happy...I just feel so bad for him that he had to be in pain for 2 months before we got it taken care of. He still crys, but usually it is because we haven't met a physical need.

praise the Lord

changes in life

2009-04-18T09:08:00.007-05:00

Shortly before Jonah was born I signed up for a facebook account. I think it is so cool. I love being able to "keep up" with people that I wouldn't normally have everyday interaction with. I have been able to communicate with cousins that live across the country (wink ;) Stephanie!). And keep in touch with classmates that I graduated high school with and share pictures of our family and new little guy!

However, there is some strangeness to it too. Like the fact that my cousin in California and I have not spoken in years (due to distance/life etc) and now I know and she knows how our life is going on a day to day basis without much depth to the "new found" relationship.

I guess it is similar to this blog. I really have no idea who is reading this, but I sometimes pour my heart out about the things that I am thinking about or feeling. Not that this is a bad thing, but just an odd situation. It is amazing to me how much all this technology has changed our lives.

Dean & I were talking about "sexting" yesterday. It was a topic on Dr. Phil. If you don't know what it is, it is basically when a person takes a provocative photo of themselves on their camera phone and they send it to someone they like or their boyfriend/girlfriend. The ramifications of this are amazing. The receiver of the message can be charged with child pornography (as most of the people doing this are under 18 years old), and have to register as a sex offender. The person that is in the photo can be harassed, teased, even to the extreme of committing suicide. We were discussing it in the context of Jonah, and how we can not only protect him from this, but how we can guide him so that he makes better choices in his life for himself. We definitely agree that he will not have a camera phone, but who knows what new thing will be out by the time he is in his teenage years.

It amazes me how far the "world" is getting from God. Navigating is tough enough, but now to be responsible for someone else is sometimes overwhelming. I just want him to grow up loving God and knowing how much God loves him. I am realizing that however hard this baby stage is...it is going to get so much harder! I am praying that Jesus will help guide us to be the best parents that we can be and He will watch over and protect Jonah from the ugliness of this world!

getting bigger every day!

2009-04-15T07:38:00.007-05:00

On Easter Sunday I got the day off, and was able to spend it at home with my family!!! Yippie! After we ate we were doing dishes and knowing just how much Amanda just loves puzzles, I challenged her to my tupperware storage containers. She was so excited to help me organize them because she thought of it as a puzzle. So she took all of them out, matched up lids and put them away in a very organized fashion! I love her!!! :) Of course Jonah had to be in on the action!

We have discovered that Jonah just totally loves Baby Einstien. I got him "baby mozart" in his Easter basket, but one morning when he was really screaming I got it out and put it on, and what do you know, he totally loved it!!! Now we put it on after he gets his prilosec so we can wait the 30 min. till he can eat. It usually works to distract him...YEAH!

This picture is from Monday...I just love that hat, and the "adorable" outfit from baby gap! He wouldn't smile at me, but he just kept looking at the camera!

I love his super smiley pictures. Dean was tickeling his nose...he loves it when you touch his nose and make silly noises! And he just loves his daddy!

The strange look on Jonah's face in this photo can easily be explained by the fact that shortly after this was taken he projectile vomited on himself and me!

Jonah is not the biggest fan of tummy time...he usually screams his head off till he falls asleep. I am not sure he gets the point of tummy time quite yet, but we keep working on it!

The mornings are usually his smiley time, like when he is getting dressed for the day, he loves it when I say good morning to him...and sing silly songs to him too.

I am not sure why this picture didn't upload all the way, but I thought it was way too cute anyhow! I just love those Gap RED line shirts. He has 3 of them (thanks to Sarah, Sam, & Once upon a child).

Of course we have to have Twins gear for Daddy...he wore this outfit on the day that his daddy went to the Twins opening gave. Too cute!

I swear, we go to bed, and the next morning Jonah is bigger, or has a new skill etc. I should pay more attention when I am up with him in the middle of the night! :)

happy easter

2009-04-12T06:28:00.003-05:00

I was really glad to know that I wasn't going to have to work today, Jonah's first Easter, although it is my weekend to work. What a gift from God. I know that he won't remember if I was there or not, but as his mommy, it was important to me! :)

It has been a "stretching" experience to be back at work. I am feeling like my work is more a means to an end. However...our experiences have given me a different perspective about patient care.

I have realized just how important it is to be validated in your feelings especially by the people that are taking care of you (or your loved one). As the family or patient, you may not know all the "medical facts" but you know how you or your loved one feels. And I know that in the past, I have assumed because I know the science behind what is going on, that often times the patient/family were wrong, and I had to educate them on how they should feel. But now, after being in their shoes...I know that, although I may have been right about the medical facts that might not always be the most important piece of the puzzle. Perhaps what is more important is that they feel heard. For example, when we were in the worst of Jonah's reflux I didn't feel like the physician was listening to us at first, I knew how our life was during the 23 hours and 55 minutes that we were not face to face with the doctor. And just because they don't see it in the 5 minutes of contact, does not mean that it isn't true.

Now based on our experiences, I so appreciate hearing how the patient feels about the care that they are recieving. And how I can help them to feel like they are getting the best care that is possible.

sad

2009-04-08T06:45:00.002-05:00

This is a sad commentary on the state of our union

article

I cannot begin to immagine how sad our founding "fathers" would be, who fought so hard to have freedom to worship God and now it seems as if the vast majority of our country could care less. SAD!

have grace

2009-04-06T17:41:00.002-05:00

I need to have more grace for those around me, this I know. I have not been a good friend, wife, daughter, or really anything else either. I have expected to receive more than I have given. For this I am sorry. I need to daily make the choice to give of myself, and have more concern for others than myself. Basically be a Martha. (not stewart:) This especially goes for those in my immediate family...Dean & Jonah...but especially Dean.

I found out something very upsetting & rather than coming from a loving place of grace, my anger was ignited. I am not proud of this, but it was my initial reaction. After reflecting & not reacting (& some Godly council), I realize change can only come from within. So even though I am hurt by this, (note the real emotion is hurt, not anger) I need to have grace.

This is not to say I will be walked on, or manipulated, because that is not what I am suggesting. Just that in the interest of preserving what I hold most dear, I choose to forgive, even when the offender doesn't ask for it, or know enough to know that they are the offender or that they have offended.

Please know that choosing grace is sometimes difficult, particullarly when you are totally sleep deprived & dealing with a sick child, but I will try my best.

Thank you Lord for loving me just as I am, and having amazing grace for me.

"gi woes"

2009-04-03T11:15:00.003-05:00

well...Mr.Jonah is still having some gi issues. still refluxing, still crying/screaming after lots of burps, still spitting up 3 hours after a feeding, still doing a lot of swallowing like he is trying really hard to keep it in after a feeding. But, the "freak-outs" during feedings have really decreased (only one in the last few days). And a few other issues that seem to be related to the formula change.

We did get a letter from his physician stating that he needs to be on this type of formula so hopefully we can get some insurance coverage for it (or at the very least use our HSA dollars so we can use it for a tax deduction).

The frustrating part is, I have called his physician's office nurse line and they pass a message along to him regarding the issues that are still going on. The most concerning one to me is that he still seems to be in pain when he refluxes and therefore screams. It is really hard to watch my baby be in pain. So, I have been that annoying mom, that is calling the physician frequently, because I feel like I need to be Jonah's advocate.

Yesterday I called again & I basically told the nurse that I really felt like his doctor was blowing me off...told me he was colicky and that I need to just put him in his crib, shut the door and turn up the TV. Now, that might be the thing to do for some people, but I just can't turn my back on someone that I believe to be hurting. Particularly my own child, who is totally dependent on me. So, long story long, he must have been sick of me calling enough so to order a consult with the ped. GI specialist. YEAH!
And even if things get better, which I sincerely hope they do, I just want his opinion about everything to make sure that we are doing the best for Jonah.

Of course, now I feel like I bullied my way to get what I wanted, and I feel badly about it. I am a little worried about his 4 month visit, that it may be a little awkward. I am actually thinking we may switch physicians, not because of the awkwardness, but because I think a physician that is a little more proactive would suit us better. Haven't decided yet. Plus, I am not sure how to even go about switching...any pointers??? ;)

Here's a happy boy picture...yes, he does have happy times too, which makes it all TOTALLY worth it! He has a very ticklish nose!

wow

2009-03-27T10:34:00.002-05:00

you can shut my music off to hear the music on this video

to elaborate

2009-03-26T14:09:00.003-05:00

Typing is tough when you are holding a screaming infant that needs to be constantly in motion. :)
Not to mention that I have one ear to the radio listening to all the flood info. I feel so bad that I can not be out there helping sandbag. All the info is very worrisome.
So Jonah was started on Alimentum on Tuesday which is a hypoallergenic formula. The milk proteins are totally broken down. But I do believe that it has full lactose. The formula that we have been on since he came home from the hospital is "gentlease". It has partially broken down milk proteins and also 1/5 the lactose that normal formula has.
He has been pretty fussy since we switched, except about a 2 hour time block yesterday morning in which he was really smiley and happy to play with his toys.
I called the pediatrician's office and they suggested trying to stick it out on this formula and that perhaps he is doing something like "detoxing" from the milk proteins. Evidently you have to stick with a formula for at least 2 weeks to see the difference. So, I went to target to stock up on this super spendy stuff (thank goodness for all the gift cards that we got for shower gifts). Also, I picked up 2 different kinds of bottles. They told me it most likely wouldn't make much of a difference, but hey, it's worth a shot right? And of course it could just be plain old colic. But, I feel like we owe it to Jonah to try what we can, so that we can say we explored all options before we call it just plain colic.
So thanks to all the thoughts and prayers...it has been tough, but this too shall pass.

ailmentum update

2009-03-26T11:31:00.000-05:00

not sure this is the ticket...jonah is crankier than before...grr!

MSPI (milk soy protein intolerance)

2009-03-24T21:28:00.004-05:00

well...today I took Jonah to the doctor for a recheck after starting prilosec for his reflux.

To back up a little, from what I have learned about 80% of babies have reflux. And there are 3 types of "spitters" according to our doctor. The 1st type is a happy spitter that is gaining weight, the 2nd is an unhappy spitter that is gaining weight. The last type is an unhappy spitter that is not gaining (or is losing weight). First he put Jonah in the 1st category, but as time has gone on, and he has developed more cranky times during the day/evening, and started having some more congestion and wheezing he got moved to the 2nd category. They started him on zantac. We tried it for over a week and it didn't seem to do much. So I called back because he was getting to the point where he was super fussy for hours at a time some days. (the odd thing, this is somewhat inconsistent...it doesn't happen every day, etc). But anyways, they suggested that we try soy formula and started him on Albuterol nebulizers. Well, after much discussion and a couple more days of screaming we decided to try the soy. After the 1st bottle he screamed for 2 hours straight. After the 2nd he was fine, then after the 3rd, he screamed for another hour straight. I called the clinic and they said he was reacting to the protein in the soy. GRRR! So they said to stop the zantac, start prilosec and go back to the gentlease formula (or try hypoallergenic).

Since hypoallergenic is far more expensive, we hoped that the priolsec would take care of it. Also, we tried gas drops & gripe water over the weekend. We also tried to keep his routine as consistent as possible even though we were traveling. He had a pretty good weekend, crying was within reason. But last night, he was super fussy from 5:30-8:30. This would be a good argument for colic, except it doesn't always happen in the evening, sometimes it is in the morning or afternoon.

Back to this morning...I ran through all the issues that he has been having, from inconsolable crying, to the arching his back, shaking his head when he is eating, spraying me with formula out of frustration, more "stinky" bm's, more gassy, etc.
He wanted us to try a hypoallergenic formula for a month or 2 to help with what he suspects as a milk protein intolerance. He said 10% of all kids with a milk protein intolerance will also be soy intolerant, and suspected that this could be what we are dealing with. He was not 100% sure of what is the root cause of all this, or maybe a combination of, reflux, protein intolerance, reactive airways, or colic. At any rate, we are covered for the 1st 3 of those (we started him on pulmicort neb treatments 1x per day to help maintain his lungs now that they are starting to sound better.) And if colic is what this all is about, well...I guess he will just grow out of it.

I am just tired of trying to figure all this out, I hope that this works, so at least we have an answer. I just want Jonah to be as happy as he can be, and not be in pain because he isn't digesting the food he is trusting us to provide him with.

digestive troubles :)

2009-03-17T11:20:00.002-05:00

1 Peter 3:8-12 Summing up: Be agreeable, be sympathetic, be loving, be compassionate, be humble. That goes for all of you, no exceptions. No retaliation. No sharp-tongued sarcasm. Instead, bless—that's your job, to bless. You'll be a blessing and also get a blessing.

Whoever wants to embrace life
and see the day fill up with good,
Here's what you do:
Say nothing evil or hurtful;
Snub evil and cultivate good;
run after peace for all you're worth.
God looks on all this with approval,
listening and responding well to what he's asked;
But he turns his back
on those who do evil things.

I read this passage this morning, and I am having a tough time digesting it. It is really hard for me to have a humble heart in turning the other cheek. Maybe it is because of certain situations that are presenting themselves to me, but living out turning the other cheek is hard for me right now. I want to be like Jesus, and show love & kindness and humility even when it isn't always shown to me. Just hashing out what that looks like, and swallowing my pride is the tough part. But nowhere in the Bible does it say that we have an easy road marked out for us.

a beauiful day

2009-03-16T15:44:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was so beautiful that we decided to take our first family walk with the dogs & Jonah. It was way too wet/muddy to take the stroller, so we bundled Jonah up and put him in the baby Bjorn. He kept his eyes shut most of the time because of the sun, but I think he seemed to like the fresh air. We certainly enjoyed the day! Now we are totally ready for spring.

the crud strikes again!!!

2009-03-13T18:58:00.003-05:00

Well...Jonah is making sure that we get good use out of our health insurance premiums. We went into the clinic today because he is still very congested and wheezy sounding. His regular doc was not in today so we saw the doc that took care of him when he was in the hospital last month. He agreed with me that he sounded crummy and got an xray. This one looked ok, so that was a blessing, but he still was concerned with the way he sounded and gave us a prescription for some steroids to help with any swelling in his airways from whatever lovely bug is creating these noises. So hopefully that will help us to get through the weekend!

I got some bad news about my schedule at work yesterday. Before I left for maternity leave I basically worked 3 12 hour shifts per week...so Dean and I sat down and decided that we could afford to have me cut back to 5 12 hour shifts per pay period without making too many major sacrifices in our budget. So, I went to the hospital last week & told them. Yesterday, when I looked at my schedule it was filled with 8 hour shifts, so I was actually working 4 or 5 days a week. Evidendly I was told about the fact that my schedule was changing (something that I just don't remember). So now out of a 12 week cycle, I now have 4 weeks of 8 hour shifts. This may not seem like too big of a deal to most people, but it really threw me for a loop as it was TOTALLY not what I was expecting. And now it not only affects me, but Dean, Jonah, and my mom (who is watching Jonah for us when I go back to work). As it turns out, it will work out ok, especially with the cut in hours means less days away from Jonah, but it was a "stretching" day for me yesterday.

blogstalker

2009-03-13T12:32:00.001-05:00

yes, I blogstalk...i ripped off the entire playlist of music from someone else's blog...but all the songs really spoke to me, so does that make it ok? I guess it has to right? :)

jonah & bella

2009-03-10T12:17:00.003-05:00

Jonah got his 2 month shots today, sad for him, even sadder for me!
:(
he is up to 11 lbs, 4 oz and 21 and 7/8ths inches tall/long :)
he is getting close to the 50%th percentile for everything!!! Yeah Jonah! The doc started him on Zantac for the reflux and hopefully that will help some of the other things that have been going on. If it doesn't, then he said the next step would be to start him on Nutramagin (a hypoalergenic formula that costs about double the price, but might help). Crossing fingers that zantac helps!!!

I tried to upload a video of Jonah and Bella, but it doesn't want to work so I will try again today :) For now, here is a picture of their "play date" Jonah kept looking for her, and she didn't get too close. It was really cute!

sick...again!

2009-03-08T19:28:00.005-05:00

just chillin with dad on the couch

I like my new hat!

huh?

playin with my puppy bella!

Grrr....Jonah is sick again...fussy, red eyes, stuffy nose, yellow drainage, needing suckin' out before eating. grrr! we have a "well" child visit on tuesday for 2 month shots etc. so we'll see what Dr. H. says. I am not quite as worried this time around because the little pork-chop has gained some weight and isn't as frail. But, still tough to see the little guy sick. Gave him a "vapor" bath tonight...seemed to help. Also baby vicks...my kid smells like a medicine cabinet. :)

sweet baby

2009-02-26T16:05:00.005-06:00

I just love watching him take in the world around him and how he is learning to interact with it. please ignore the annoying mommy talk :)

I love the little noises he makes when he eats! so sweet

also...I got the 1st smile yesterday...it didn't last too long, but boy did it melt me!

christmas videos

2009-02-25T12:40:00.006-06:00

here are a few videos from our family get together (late Christmas gatering). we were very happy that Jonah was healthy enough to meet everyone! This was also his first visit to grandma & grandpa's house

GROSS!

2009-02-24T11:49:00.000-06:00

Jonah had his 1st 'blow-out' today and all I can say is YUK!

funny

2009-02-23T18:52:00.003-06:00

if you can't see it, the shirt says will cry for food :)

home again

2009-02-22T17:44:00.002-06:00

We got discharged from the hospital at about 4 pm yesterday. Jonah is doing much better, had been off oxygen for about 24 hours and was eating better. So they decided it would be a-ok to send us home! We are still sucking out his nose before he eats, and as a RT I am still pounding on his chest to clear out any remaining areas of pneumonia. It felt GREAT to sleep in my own bed last night! The dogs were sure glad to ave me home, although I am not sure I could say the same about Jonah. Bella would just love to step over him to get to me. We gotta watch that girl!

We had the chance to spend a little bit of time with relatives from my mom's side last night and this morning. We had planned a late "christmas" get-together at my parents house, so we went over there for a little bit. We didn't want to over do it with Jonah and his health. But it was great to see all those guys!

Otherwise not too much else to report...just really glad to be home again, and getting back to normal. Of course I have 800 loads of laundry to do. Even though Jonah was in the hospital we had to bring his clothes because they really don't have much for newborn sized clothes in PEDS. So we brought a few of his outfits that he generally doesn't wear much and donated them to the hospital. It will be fun to see if I ever see those outfits on any of my future patients. Also I was interviewed on the radio for the children's hospital telethon.

the crud

2009-02-19T20:40:00.002-06:00

Jonah is sick...not a big suprise as Dean was sick. But what can you do? When a parent is sick the kid is bound to get sick :( So Monday we went to the clinic and it was all in his upper airways. Tuesday, he was looking worse to me so I called to see if we could give him a little Tylenol. They wanted us to hold off so it wouldn't "mask" an increased temp. In the afternoon he started to sound more crackly and way more nasal congestion and retractions everywhere. I was starting to get kind of concerned because I have seen too many kids this age get REALLY sick so fast. So I brought him back to his doctor and he got an xray. The xray showed an "patchy" area in his right lung that could be a pneumonia, so they started him on antibiotics. I went home feeling better, but Jonah still looked kind of tough. That night he started wheezing. By then I had Dean run to the hospital to get my stethscope. I was worried we were going to end up in the ER that night, but we made it through without needing to. But the next morning he was still wheezing and just really sleepy. Not himself. He was still eating, but only about 1/2 of the usual amount. He also still did not have a temp. but my mommy instincts (and RT instincts) told me to take him back again. So we went to the clinic for the 3rd day in a row. This time his sats were 89-90% and he was working harder to breathe. The doctor said we should try a breathing treatment and if it didn't help we would admit him to the hospital. After the treatment his sats were actually lower 85%. So that was it, we drove straight to the hospital, and got him into the room.

Basically they admited him so they could monitor him, and put him on oxygen. He has been weaned down to just a "sniff" of oxygen, they tried it off but, he still needed it for now. They have been suctioning his nose out, and that seems to be helping too. One of my fellow respiratory therapists made the point that being as he refluxes after each feeding and spits up some after each feeding, that he could have some element of aspiration. The doctor said that it very well could be that too, so they started him on some prilosec too.

Other than that, I have not much else to report...just hoping to get home soon to return to normal. But I don't want him to come home before he is totally ready.

jon succumbs to peer pressure!

2009-02-16T13:10:00.003-06:00

gross Jon!

6 weeks old

2009-02-16T12:12:00.005-06:00

As of Wednesday Jonah will be 6 weeks old. In honor of that I will list some of his vital stats:

as of this morning he is 8 lbs, 6 oz (went to the clinic today)
he has
-had his first cold (currently, which is why we went to the clinic today)
-had 3 photo shoots
-been home for 3 weeks
-not slept longer than 4 hours at a time
-increased the amount he eats at a time from 2 ounces to usually 3-3.5 ounces
-graduated to Avent bottles (he was only able to tolerate the NICU bottles)
-is still in newborn diapers...speaking of, I need to go buy more
-he can still wear all the newborn clothes...so much for the people that said they were a waste of money (some of the 0-3 month stuff is still a little big)
-gone through almost 3 cans of formula
-been licked by all the dogs (bailey included)
-met 4 out of his 7 cousins
-has been to target 2 times, best buy once, the mall once, and the grocery store once
-he still can only tolerate being in his carseat for about 30 minutes before he has increased work of breathing...which makes it really hard to do the previously mentioned errands :)
-he is staying awake for longer periods of time...sometimes even staying awake between feedings.
-he is really good at making eye contact
-he can turn his head and likes to face to his right
-he loves his bouncy seat and is learning to like his swing
-he cried real tears 2 nights ago (which made me cry real tears!)
-he still is not socially smiling (the doctor said, don't be suprised if it takes him till 3 months)
-he loves to be swaddled, but somehow always gets his hands up by his face (not out, just up by his neck)
-he has a little reddish tint to his hair (especially in the sun)
-he can hold his head up for 5-10 seconds
-he is doing better at holding his paci in his mouth
-he hates getting his diaper changed (and always cries)
-he has pee'ed on almost every person that has changed his diaper since coming home from the nicu
*note: I write all this stuff so I can remember when I go to scrapbook his 1st year :)

here is the 1st video that we took of Jonah (he was 3 days old)

And here is a recent one from about a week ago

jonah gets sharky

2009-02-12T12:42:00.004-06:00

not in the handbook

2009-02-11T10:52:00.002-06:00

this morning I was giving Jonah a bath and when I was done I wrapped him up in a towel. He was pretty worked up from being cold. the little turkey pooped in the towel. So I brought him to his room to get him cleaned up (again!) When I was cleaning him up I noticed that he had gotten poop on his neck and in his hair!!! what the heck!?! poop in the hair...that is not in the handbook!!!

I am going to try this as a new photosharing system...
www.kellyjmeyer.shutterfly.com
I will post photos of Jonah and our daily lives on here.
snapfish was making me too mad...freezing up my stinkin computer!!! grrrr!

baby wearin' mama

2009-02-07T09:42:00.002-06:00

just so you can see what I am talking about :)

"million" dollar baby

2009-02-06T15:38:00.004-06:00

Jonah's cord finally fell off (it lasted a little longer than normal due to the IV's they had going through there at the beginning) so he finally got to have his first tub bath...even though you can't tell from this picture he really did seem to like it...he just didn't like to be cold.

"what the heck are you people thinking?!?"

"hmmm...not sure what to think about that, just glad they gave me my paci"

we got the first statements from the insurance company today for our little "million dollar baby", yikes!!! thank goodness for insurance. I can't even begin to imagine how much the bills are for babies that are there for several months!!!

I had another injection today. this one was pretty good, it hurt afterwards but not too terribly bad. My vision is about the same as it was when Jonah was born...there seems to be less bleeding, but the "membrane" is "more defined". Evidently this is to be expected and the treatments will help it to shrink or something. Of course we brought Jonah and all the ladies in the office had to have their turn to hold him. They were literally fighting each other. It was cute...he has alot of new girlfriends.

I have been "wearing him" in this awesome baby sling my friend borrowed to us. So, I guess that makes me a baby wearin' mama. It is so nice to have him close and know that he is safe and warm.

Jonah's due date

2009-02-02T13:56:00.002-06:00

today is Jonah's original due date. so, today marks him being considered "full term." In the nicu they talk alot about corrected gestational age. I am not sure how long it takes to catch up to other babies, I am sure it depends on how early the baby is, but as of now...our little guy is at 40 weeks! We have really settled into being a family. The county health nurse came out today and weighed him again...he is up to 7 pounds 14.5 ounces! Some of the "preemie" clothes that we got as gifts no longer fit! also alot of the hats that we have for him are more snug on his little head. but I love hats on him!
I am working on editing the millions of photos I have taken of him so far! I am also trying to work on a birth announcement...but choosing the photo is the tough part! Shawn (a friend of ours) suggested taking a photo of Jonah each day for his 1st year and then making a cd of those for his 1st birthday party. I cannot wait to see how much he changes from now till then, but I want to hang on to this sweet baby stage as long as I can too!

almost a week under our belts

2009-01-31T16:45:00.002-06:00

well we came home on Sunday, and things have been going great! Of course we are tired but, it is a good tired. Jonah weighed 6 lbs, 13 oz on sunday when we went home & as of yesterday at our first pediatritian's visit he is 7 lbs 6 oz...so obviously eating well! he eats pretty much every 3 hours...give or take an hour. He lets us know when he wants to eat...and he still gets tired about 1/2 way through, but usually makes it to the end. we are loving having him home!!!

cautiously optimistic

2009-01-24T07:09:00.004-06:00

yesterday, Jonah's status was changed to recovery care. That means that basically he has no issues except the eating. Dr. Lina called him her "A" student...I hope he keeps up his studies and plans to be an A student for the rest of his life :) Anyways, she said as long as he is gaining weight, she was going to switch him to "ad-lib" feedings. That means the baby sets the schedule...and we don't have to wake him up to eat. He eats on his terms (they do set a minimum so if he doesn't meet it in a 12 hour shift the help him out by putting some down the tube). But this really seemed to help him. He woke up and was hungry and had enough energy to eat all he was needing from the bottle, and skip the tube all together yesterday.

So as long as last night and today goes well...we get to ROOM IN TONIGHT! That also means that if that goes ok, that we might get to take him home tomorrow!!!!!

He had his car seat tolerance test yesterday. It didn't go great, but he did pass. Of course, I try to find the safest (read-most expensive) one, and the dang thing has too big of a pad behind his head, which pushes his little head forward, which in turn closes his little airway. So he did pass, but the lady said that she would not leave him alone in his seat till he gets a little bigger, and he really pooped out by the end of the hour long test, so we are "fargo" bound for at least a month or until he gets a longer body :).

They were going to do his hearing screening last night on the night shift, so we'll get the results of that this morning. Also...today is the big day for the circumcision...poor guy! He has no idea what we have planned for him!

Anyways...there is definately light at the end of this tunnel, and this leg of our parenting journey is almost over. Let's hope that last night was our last night of good sleep for a while! :)

THanks for all the support and prayers!
Love to all
kelly, dean, and jonah

quick update

2009-01-23T07:03:00.002-06:00

Jonah ate a full bottle yesterday at 3am, 12pm, and 9pm. The rest of them (that he tried) were over half done when he quit. The plan that we have been trying for the last day or so, is nipple 1 feeding, gavage (down the tube) the next, so he can have a break and regain the energy and strength to nipple the next. Until noon yesterday that was working, for that feeding he was due to gavage the feed...but he decided that he wanted to nipple...and the little guy actually ate the entire thing! Ok...this may not seem like a big deal to most people (especially when you find out that a whole bottle is slightly less than 2 ounces) but for us this is a huge accomplishment. And for those that need a "NICU-ese" to English translation...sorry...I have been a permanent fixture up there these last 2+ weeks and you pick up the lingo.
Anyways...the light is maybe coming on, and I think the end may be in sight...but it is hard to say exactly when. Keep us in your prayers, that we will have the endurance to finish the race marked out for us. And also that Jonah can continue to improve and keep getting better at "nippling" :)
Thanks for checking in with us...and Jonah looks forward to meeting all of you soon (especially after the RSV/FLU season is over! ;)

my world

2009-01-21T06:38:00.003-06:00

I think this is my favorite picture so far...the smile on his face, and the sweet light blue...regardless of the tubes, I love it!

Jonah has been off oxygen for more than 48 hours now...although after he eats from the bottle he has a hard time keeping up his sats, just from working so hard to eat. He really needs to conserve his energy so he can work hard on eating and staying off oxygen. I have actually had him in his crib a little more because he seems to oxygenate better when he is in there after a feeding. I think being more upright, and not crumpled in someones arms works better. Yesterday he seemed to be having a bit of a tummy ache...he would get this big frown on his face, and act like he was going to cry but he rarely did...just seemed uncomfortable. They did switch to the gentle "ease" formula to see if that would help his little tummy, and his tendency to "spit". I think it is because he is not very good at burping, so he gets air pockets and then his food just comes up.

Over all...we are getting better at eating. A couple days ago, we had to work hard to get 10-15 cc in him, and now most times he will take 20-30 per feeding. That is still only around 1 ounce...so we have a ways to go. I am thinking we will be in this same boat till the begining of next week, but hoping for sooner!

Last night, we left the hospital, and I was just feeling very depleted. I know it is normal for new moms to be very tired, and I am thankful for the full nights of sleep (one of the only good things about all this), but there is a hole in my heart and an empty bed in my home. It is getting hard to be patient for this little guy to mature enough to eat on his own. His neighbor that weighs just under 5 pounds gets to go home tomorrow. I am very happy for them, but can't help but to feel a little jealous. I just wish it was our turn soon. I can't wait to start our new life (outside of the hospital) as a family.

one quick photo

2009-01-16T06:59:00.000-06:00

Jonah update

2009-01-15T08:37:00.002-06:00

Well...this is been a big week for our little family. Jonah was a week old yesterday. He is doing really great! He has been moved out of the isolette and into a crib the other day, which ment that we were able to hold our little guy for the very first time. It was the MOST AMAZING thing in my world. I would say that that was the best day of my life. I have never really understood unconditional love before that. Physically he is doing well...he got his IV out the other day because it "infiltrated" and they weren't able to use it anymore, so rather than start a new one they took the chance that he would tolerate going up on his feedings, and he has done pretty well with that. Being premature, he isn't able to eat it all through a bottle, he is too tired for that, so they have a NG tube (goes from his nose down into his tummy) and they give him whatever he doesn't eat through that so he gets all the nutrition he needs. He is still on some oxygen, but not nearly as much as he was before. So things are good, and we are on the mend. He might be able to go home next week hopefully. Sorry no pictures, but I am updating from the hospital...so when we get home from the hospital and are able to do more than just sleep there, we will get the pictures uploaded.
Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers, and Jonah is looking forward to meeting you all!
Lots of Love,
Kelly, Dean, & Jonah

Jonah Oliver Edward Meyer

2009-01-09T18:04:00.005-06:00

well...to make a long story short, (ok it might be kind of long :)
Vital stats:
6 pounds 2 ounces
20 inches long
1/7/09 11:11 am

the story:On Tuesday, I went to Dr. Jordan and my eye was bleeding alot...much worse than it had been. So, after taking photos and talking about things...risks etc, we decided that it was very important to get my eye treated, therefore have the baby asap.

He called Dr. Mickelson while we were in the room and they decided with our input that we would have the baby on Wednesday. So I went home and cleaned and got everything ready...thank goodness I had all of that nesting done the week before!

So we got to the hospital at 8:30 (my c section was scheduled at 10:30). Got all set for stuff (IV, etc). Went down to the OR, had my spinal block, and Dean came in after I was draped and prepped. Dr. Mickelson came in and started in right away. It took a little bit and pretty soon Jonah was born. His actual time of birth was 11:11 on 1/7. Because he was only 36 weeks the NICU team was there. His apgar scores were 5 and 8. He had some respiratory distress right away, and they brought him to the NICU. He was on Nasal CPAP for about 30 hours, but looking tough for a good chunk of that time. The doctors were really hoping that he would turn around. His chest x-ray was looking better and his blood gas was also hanging in there, but the little guy just had been working too hard for too long.

He was very "touchy"...when he gets mad, he is really mad and then gets himself so worked up that he drops his sats. After working that hard for so long he just wasn't recovering from these little spells as well. Last night he had a spell in front of the nurse practitioner and she decided to intubate him so that he could rest. They also gave him 2 doses of surfactant into his lungs to help keep them opened up. (surfactant is a substance that babies have in their lungs to help reduce the surface tension of the "air sacs" to help keep them open...to help reduce his work of breathing). It seemed to really help him. He still has those spells, and really doesn't like it when people are touching/rubbing him. But he seems to be hanging in there.

The doctors and staff in the NICU have been AMAZING! They are really great at giving us information, and actually treat Jonah like he was their own. It will be sad to leave him tomorrow when I get discharged from the hospital, but I know that he is in the very best place that he could be. Hopefully they will be able to get the tube out tomorrow too! I do appreciate that we can see his little face now that he got the mask/straps off and just has a little tape on there. Most people that see him say he looks like me, but he has some of Dean's traits too.

He for sure has Dean's toes, and big hands! :) But maybe my feisty attitude. :)
I never knew I could love someone so much! I will try to keep everyone updated, but imagine it will be tough as I want to be with him as much as I can! :)

We picked his name together. I liked Jonah the best, Dean liked Oliver, and we had agreed that Edward would be the middle name because it is Dean's middle name and a family name on his side. So, rather than duke it out, we used Jonah as the 1st name and Oliver as a second middle name. (our first parenting compromise!)

Thanks for everyone's thoughts and prayers...it means alot to us!

36.5 weeks

2009-01-06T23:04:00.003-06:00

here are a couple of pictures of how I look this last week of being prego...of course the "bump" picture, but also a "belly-2-belly" shot with Dean and one with Jon...sorry Jon!

well...

2009-01-06T12:19:00.003-06:00

good news/bad news
usually I go with bad news first so that the good news helps to cheer me up.

bad news: my eye is worse...hard to say how much worse...but for sure worse. new bleeding all the way around the area that was the "bad membrane" before. which leads my doc to think it is expanding. vision is down, etc.

good news: we are having our baby tomorrow! my eye doc said that this is in the best interest of my eye/vision/potential future vision or lack thereof. So I will be 36.5 weeks gestation, so our little guy will be just that...little. Just under a month early. But not to worry...we got steroid shots to help with lung development and have taken all the precautions that we could to make sure this little one is as healthy as he can be. I am a little apprehensive about the whole thing...not worried, but sort of in a little bit of shock. I knew it could be a possibility, but didn't really think it could happen this quickly.

So today I am cleaning my house, and getting ready...bags are for the most part packed thanks to "grandma" alison urging me to "be prepared". Just loose ends to tie up for the most part.

I will try to post one more photo tonight of the belly (pre-delivery)...once the baby is out, no more belly pix though! :) Sorry to disappoint you! ;)

Wish us luck!

finally a date

2008-12-31T08:53:00.002-06:00

well...we went to dr. m on monday...and finally we set a date for the c-section...unless there are anymore problems with my eye (that is a pretty big unless) the date will be Jan. 21. So we have 3 weeks from today!!! Yikes...I feel like now I have alot left to do. I am debating if I should take down all of my Christmas stuff or just the really Christmasy things (like the tree, manger etc.) I have alot of Snowmen just for that reason...but it might be nice just to have it all put away. We'll see.

We had a really nice Christmas...I actually got off of work on Christmas eve...the hospital has been really slow, so they were overstaffed. So I only worked on Christmas day and the day after. I did get out and buy some wrapping paper/bows on Monday after the doctor's appt. That is my annual stocking up tradition...Hobby Lobby has some great deals and really nice stuff!

I haven't had a chance to get through all the photos from Christmas yet...but I am working on it...then I will post. We had a wonderful time with family and got way too much stuff! Now I really need to organize and clean my house as it has been a pit stop for the last week or so. Tomorrow cleaning is on the agenda! As for today...we are heading to Perham for a couple of birthday parties. We will come home tonight and have a quite New Years Eve at home...who knows...I will probably sleep through it! :)

baby's room is done

2008-12-23T11:49:00.002-06:00

we picked up the crib & the 3 drawer dresser yesterday...the 5 drawer dresser is still on it's way as is the changing pad. The furniture looks black in these pictures, but it is really very dark stained wood. I really am happy with how things came out. I decided that the green dots were a bit much, so I just went with chocolate brown & white. We got the bedding as a birthday gift from my whole family. It is becoming very real :)

even Bella got to check it out :) Of course she gave it 2 paws up!

100 posts!

2008-12-19T09:10:00.004-06:00

Evidently this is my 100th post...how exciting...I wonder if I win some sort of prize!?!

I finished my work week...those 12 hour shifts just aren't getting any easier. I had a little bit of a sad evening last night...a couple of sad things happened at work. Then when I got home, we watched Dances with Wolves...I just sobbed and sobbed when they shot the wolf. Even now...I am a little teary thinking about it. How horrible!!! Ok...so I am a little over emotional. :) I am preggers give me a break.

So it's my birthday on Sunday...I don't really know if it is good etiquette to advertise your own birthday, but I don't care. I have always loved birthdays...not only mine ;)~ I am turning 31...wow! that seems kinda old. I remember when I was younger...anything over 21 was ancient. I just don't feel that old :) I am now going to go with...you are only as old as you feel. Just don't ask me how old I am after a 12 hour shift!!!

My friend Dawn borrowed me a hotslings baby carrier. I am really excited about this contraption! The directions are 3 pages long, and it comes with a instruction DVD to give you an idea of how complicated this simple tube of fabric could be. It is really cute though!
THANKS DAWN!

Today I am going to do some shopping with my dad for my mom...our annual trip! Hopefully we will get it all done before the snow hits. Yes we are having yet another winter snow storm...but apparently this one isn't supposed to be as bad!

hope you don't mind Sarah...

2008-12-15T19:33:00.004-06:00

www.houseoftestosterone.wordpress.com/2008/12/14/celebrating-kells/

here's a link to some of the photos from the baby shower...it was seriously very fun! The turn out was great partly due to the storm...people ended up canceling their travel plans, so they came to the shower. We had awesome food, and great games, and 2 awesome hosts! I couldn't have asked for more!!!

Dean made it home from hunting before the big storm hit so that was good too. It was a "dig-out" day day today.

I had an appointment with Dr. Jordan this morning, my eye is basically the same as it was last week, so I guess, no news is good news :)

Dr. Mickelson was later this afternoon...she had nothing but good to say too. Everything is as it should be as far as the baby goes.

I have to work Tuesday-Thursday this week...ugh! Those 12 hr shifts are really starting to wear me down!

To make the evening interesting...it was literally raining in our basement bathroom tonight. Something with condensation around a vent that goes outside or something. Dean says it can be fixed with more insulation, so thank goodness it isn't a broken pipe or something awful like that!

thank you Lord for friends!

2008-12-13T11:50:00.003-06:00

As I sit here right now, I am reflecting upon just how greatly friends can impact your life. I am humbled by my friends. Truly humbled. They are throwing me a baby shower today...even before I get there I know that there has been soooo much work and planning that has gone into this. I am overwhelmed with gratitude. It just amazes me how great all of my friends and family have been. How they have held me up during my pregnancy. Whether it has been a kind word, helping me to do something, advice, or just talking things out...I really don't think I could have done it without my girlfriends. So to those near and far...from the bottom of my heart...THANK YOU, I could not have done this without you!

(just think...the baby isn't even here yet!!! I am in big trouble! :)

what was he thinking???

2008-12-05T20:39:00.003-06:00

don't let this very sweet, innocent looking face fool you. he is a cold hearted murderer! today, I let the dogs out and literally 2 minutes later, I went to let them in and Dan had a frozen little birdy that was missing a head and some legs, in his mouth...chomping happily. poor frozen little birdy! :( it just wasn't his day.

otherwise...things here are status quo. I got all my Christmas decorations out last weekend, and actually am sitting next to all the Christmas presents that are awaiting wrapping paper. That's next on my never ending list of things to do.

Oh, also on my list is to figure out how I want to paint the baby's room. I am open to ideas...our bedding is chocolate brown & white with a little bit of light blue in it. So I am not sure what I want to do. grrrr!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T11:48:00.007-06:00

Here are a TON of shots from our family Thanksgiving. Matt flew home, so it was really great to see him. It was nice to spend the whole day with my family instead of just showing up after getting done working...so I was really thankful for that! :)

Dean and I were getting a few last things ready.

Amanda and Dan bonded on the couch before we ate :)

"Dean the chef" was in charge of watching the things in the oven :)

but pretty soon we had everybody helping

Dad did the lefse as he is Norweigan

Jon kept Dan from "helping" too much ;)

Amanda was practicing her baby holding skills on a less than cooperative Bella :)

Jon & Amanda

After dinner Dad did the dishes...don't worry though...we pitched in as soon as this photo was taken!

look out...this could happen to you...if you eat too much turkey & drink too much beer!!!

see...we didn't just goof off...we helped too!

mom, dad, and me :)

The next few photos depict the famous "TURKEY COMA"

after the turkey coma wore off...we all went in the hot tub...Don't worry, I only stayed in for 10 minutes!!!

It was a great day of family time...just too bad Heidi & Aaron couldn't have been here too!

29 weeks

2008-11-25T17:38:00.002-06:00

I missed this posting, but here is the 29 week photo.

We had an appointment with Dr. Mickleson (OB) on Friday last week. I told her that accd. to Dr. Jordan...my eye is a little worse. However he is not planning to change his plans as far as treatment, and not treating me while I am still pregnant. I reminded her that when we went to the perinatologist he said that I could have an injection, but if we could get to 35 weeks, he would recommend early delivery and then treatment of my eye. So she was going to call over to Dr. Jordan and discuss what to do. She did say that she recommended that I get some steroids to help develop the baby's lungs, just in case we need to go early. My next apt is in a week, so we'll see what the verdict is.

we "pulled the trigger"

2008-11-18T15:22:00.004-06:00

Wow! baby Meyer is going to be sleeping in style. we have not spent money on furniture in a while, in fact our bedroom set is the one I got in highschool. So we have been thinking alot about this purchase. It is just a lot of money to spend at one time. So after multiple visits to many different places, and much hemming and hawwing...we picked this set. We actually ordered the crib, a 3 drawer dresser (that will serve as the changing table, and a 5 drawer tall dresser. Of course, there are always extras...the mattress, the changing pad, and the adult conversion kit.

this is how it looks as a toddler bed, however we didn't get the toddler rail.

this is a convertible crib so it changes to a full sized bed for when our little one is a bit bigger.

the color in these photos is called paprika, but ours is actually "espresso." It is almost black, but you can still see the grain of the wood. I am so glad to be done with this decision...and we actually got a pretty good deal on it. So thanks to my mom & dad that are responsible for the crib and the 3 drawer dresser. We look forward to enjoying them for years to come! :)

Halloween and beyond

2008-11-09T17:53:00.003-06:00

Bella and Dan love to dress up for Halloween (ok, maybe more like Bella & I love it and Dan tolerates it). This year Bella was a pink piglet, and Dan was a purple monkey. They both loved to see all the kids dressed up and coming to the door.

this weeknend Dean is deer hunting...as of last night they had not had great luck...GO DEER! :) I was supposed to go to St. Cloud to see Sarah, but I just didn't feel up to it. The long drive, combined with the possible deer on the road, and that I have just been feeling more tired than usual these days, I bailed out...I AM SOOOO SORRY SARAH!!!

If you note my photo on the left, my belly is definately getting bigger...and I gained 10 POUNDS in one month!!! HELLO! TEN POUNDS! What the heck!?! I passed my gestational diabetes test, no problem...109. But, my hemaglobin and hematocrit are both a little low. Not sure if they will up my iron or not yet. My doctor also told me she would like me to switch to 8 hour shifts. I am not sure how that will work...I need to talk to my manager and see what we can come up with. I really don't want to increase the # of days per week that I am working...so we'll just have to see.

My mom came over yesterday and we cleaned out 2 closets in preparation to work on the baby's room. They look great! Thanks MOM! I love cleaned out rooms/closets...it just amazes me how much better it makes me feel when I open that closet door! LOVE IT!

pics from co

2008-10-28T12:55:00.002-05:00

here are some of the photos from Colorado. Dean was off hunting wild animals (pheasants), so it was just my mom, dad, bella, and me that drove out there. We drove through South Dakota's Badlands. The buffalo is at Wall Drug, Bella was super scared of it! To see a caption of the photo, just rest the cursor on the photo.

almost November!

2008-10-27T16:53:00.002-05:00

Wow-
I can hardly believe it is almost November! Our leaves have thinned out on our trees, except the ones in the back yard...they are really still holding on :)

We had a great time in Colorado...I will post photos in the next post. It was beautiful weather, and although it was a really long drive, it was worth it. We drove straight through on the way there and on the way back! Long trip...but great to spend time with my mom & dad...Matt, and Heidi & Aaron! H&A got a puppy while we were out there...a Bernese mountain dog...Story. Very cute little (big) girl.

I finally posted a new bump picture...it is definitely getting bigger. I am starting to feel somewhat uncomfortable, but I know it will just get worse, so I try not to think about it too much!

I should be doing laundry right now, but I am really trying to find just about anything else to do but that! What a procrastinator.

sorry...

2008-10-15T19:47:00.002-05:00

I am in a big rush, and don't have time to do a 24 week baby bump photo...we are packing up and heading out to Colorado for a much needed vacation to visit Heidi, Aaron, and Matt. I am super excited and hopefully will have lots of photos to share when we get back. In the mean time...just imagine my belly a bit bigger than last week! :) Have a great week/weekend!

I know...I know...

2008-10-10T13:54:00.002-05:00

My bump picture is late...I was working on photos on Tuesday, and got soooooo tired, I was just a total zombie. I went to bed at 8pm. Then I worked 12's on Wednesday and Thursday. So, there's my excuse :)

I had an appointment with Dr. Mickelson...the OB doc this am. Everything looks good...baby's heartrate was 150...and I am measuring right on schedule. I have gained a total of 12 lbs. That has me nervous...seems like alot! I am trying to be really careful about what I eat, and not to overeat. I don't want have tons of weight to loose after we are done with this whole thing.
I do think my belly has "popped out" over the last couple weeks. People have started asking when I am due at work...like patients and people that don't already know that I am pregnant. I still pretty much just feel fat :)

I got a comment from a girl named tricia that also has choroidal osteoma on my blog...I would like to chat about stuff, but you didn't leave your email address. My email is kellyjmeyer@msn.com so if you want to email me that would be cool. I never have really talked to anyone else with C.O. either. It would be very interesting to hear what your experiences have been. :)

Hope everyone has a great weekend...stay warm! It is rainy and cold here!

back to work

2008-10-01T14:03:00.002-05:00

I have had the last week off of work and it has been awesome! I am thinking that it would be so cool to take "early retirement"...30 isn't too young is it? :) but I suppose I have to go back to work tomorrow. I am going to be working 4 12's in a row. Now, before I was prego that was really no big deal. In fact, I requested them all in a row so I could have more days off in a row. But last week after working only 3 days in a row I was ready for a 2 day long nap! I just don't have the same level of energy that I used to. Depending on how this weekend goes, I am going to ask my OB about it. At the beginning of the pregnancy, she made some kind of comment about oh, you work 12 hour shifts huh? I asked if it was a problem...she said not yet, but it may later. So I need to check into that.

not too much else going on here, just laundry, taxes, and one more photo shoot this week.

no more "full frontal" :)

2008-09-25T17:43:00.003-05:00

Ok...this is for my dad. from now on, the belly shots will be done with my shirt covering my belly. My dad asked me, when I first started putting the belly shots on my blog if I would be doing that through the whole pregnancy. The look on his face told me he didn't think it would be quite as cool as some people think it is. So dad...I will do the rest of them "covered" up. :)

So in my last post I said I was going to the perinatologist on Friday...my appointment was actually today. No, I didn't forget it today, I just had the days mixed up on my last post. So we went bright and early this morning. I had another, longer ultrasound (thank goodness my bladder didn't have to be full for this one!) basically to check the baby's anatomy, etc. Every thing looks great, and right on schedule. (side note...nothing 'fell' off, so I guess we are officially having a boy ;)

So the first thing the doctor said is that he 100% recomended a c-section. This, I was already planning for, so I am really ok with that. He told me that he takes care of many moms that have other serious health problems. (like brain tumors, head bleeds, breast cancer, etc.) He said that it would be his recomendation that I do whatever I need to, to preserve my eye/vision. He said that he didn't think it would be such a problem (at least in this stage of my pregnancy) to get an injection/have surgery if it ment keeping more of my vision. He said that the baby would not be harmed by the medication, and he recommends that I get the shot if I need it. He also said, if we were further along, say 34,35 weeks...it would be a different story and they would probably just deliver the baby and then do the injection.

He is going to send his opinion to the OB doc, and Dr. Jordan (eye doc) and let them both know what he thinks. Now, I am not sure that Dr. Jordan would risk it, in fact, I think he would be VERY hesitant to do it. But just knowing that it would be ok if things got worse, or started affecting my left eye...I do have some options other than just letting my vision go. So all in all, a very good visit!

Totally O.T. we got our car seat/stroller. Man, it's a good thing we both have college degrees, those things are so stinkin hard to put together/figure out. Still haven't figured out the cup holder. Oh well! :)

1/2 way done!

2008-09-16T17:52:00.003-05:00

well...I have reached the 1/2 way point in my pregnancy. I have been feeling better this last week, only mild reflux, and only a small amount of nausea with that. I have been going to see Dr. Jordan (the retina doc) almost every week. This Monday, he said that my eye looked "different" the membrane where the bleed came from is getting bigger, but it seems to be heading north (and my macula is south east). So that is somewhat acceptable, and we won't be heading into surgery this week at least.

I have an appointment with a "perinatologist" next Friday. I asked my doctor if she thought that I was high risk, and she said...no, I am just more 'special needs.' HA! Well...I think she is just getting a second opinion from a specialist, and I guess that makes me feel good about things. I do get to have another ultrasound prior to my appointment with the specialist. I think this will be much more of a bonding experience. So for that I am grateful.

As far as the whole boy issue...I have been talking to people, and reading online, and evidently this is not an uncommon thing to be sad about not having a girl. I am just being honest. I had so many ideas about how parenting would be, and I realized that most of those revolved around the baby being a girl. So it is taking some time, and some realignment of my thinking. I went shopping today, just to look at the boy stuff out there. I am sorry, but boy stuff just isn't as cute. I love hair bows, and flowers, and pretty much most girly stuff (with the exception of lace...yuk!) But I have managed to find some cute stuff. I can tell that I am going to be far pickier about boy clothes than I ever would have been for girl clothes (and for those that know me, know that was already pretty picky.) I guess we will just have to spend more time browsing.

As far as the nursery goes, we got our rocking chair, but I think we may put it in the living room. It is a chocolate brown velvet fully upholstered chair with matching ottoman. I LOVE it. It is so comfortable.

We also ordered the carseat and stroller...after much research and time spent on ebay searching here is what we came up with...

these are not the exact ones, ours are new, not used but you get the idea. I am really excited about them! Now to move on to cribs/bedding/furniture for the baby's room.

dont get me wrong

2008-09-11T19:58:00.002-05:00

i have been working through this all day, and here's what I've got...i am not sad that this baby is a boy. I am just sad that it isn't a girl. does that make sense? also I am very grateful for a healthy baby, so don't get me wrong.

results are in...

2008-09-11T13:22:00.002-05:00

Here are the ultrasound pictures. The baby is a .........

boy. I was really thinking/hoping it was a girl...so I was really shocked when I heard her say boy. I did cry. In fact, I am taking today to be sad, and "mourn" that we won't have a girl...and tomorrow, I am going to get my "big girl panties on" (as Sarah says).

tomorrow is...

2008-09-10T17:42:00.003-05:00

the big day. We have our "big" ultra sound tomorrow. We are really hoping to find out the gender of our little one, so that we can really start the preparing.
well...I haven't blogged in a little while (sorry Dawn!) but we have been a little bit busy. I have had since last Friday off of work, so we have been working on some stuff around the house. We are currently transforming the 2 closets in our bedroom so that they are way more functional. the extra room upstairs that was functioning as our closet is slowly getting cleared out and that will become the baby's room. Dean is working on that closet tonight. My dad helped design them, my mom painted the interior walls of the closets, and I moved all the clothes. What a mess! I have been going through things, I love when I go...Oh yeah, this I forgot about this...those things go in the goodwill box, because if I forgot about them, surely someone else can use them more than I do. We should get a nice tax deduction this year :)

I bought a swing for the baby, and an activity center/jumping chair. They were both on a great sale, so they were too tough to pass up. Plus, spreading out the expenses over the next few months will make it a lot easier on us. Next will be the rocking chair. I have a chocolate brown one picked out. I just need to figure out a time when Dean will be able to come with to get it in his truck. (that too is on a good sale) :)

I have been feeling the baby kick for the last few weeks, it started out maybe 2-3 times a week, now it is everyday, but usually just for a couple minutes. That is a weird feeling. feeling something move inside you. I think you can probably feel it on the outside, but it is usually just one single kick...so Dean hasn't felt it yet.

Well...wish me luck on my U/S tomorrow...and watch the blog for the results! :)