The View I Love the Most

Children's Hospital of Michigan

2011-04-09T18:44:00.003-04:00

As I walked into the hospital at 6:00 a.m. Monday morning, I couldn't believe how much time had past. I never expected to come back here, especially not with one of my babies. The last time I was there I was 4 months pregnant with Isaac and finishing my graduate internship! A lot had happened in the past three years.

Everything went splendidly! Isaac explored the pre-op area once he was in his yellow pajamas. He wouldn't sit in the bed they had to wheel him into surgery with. Doctor's were in and out and then they asked if we wanted to come back with him as they put him to sleep. I originally thought I would go with him but in that moment I realized that I couldn't. I was too emotional to see him go under. So I sent Jonathan. That was the worst part of the whole experience. Me not being able to go with my baby into the OR. That is what calm, unworried daddy's are for.

After that everything went really smoothly. We were in the eating area when the doctor came in to find us. It took us by surprise, as we were told he would be in there over an hour. Thankfully, everything went better than expected and they were able to quickly fix the problem. Then we waited to be called back to the wake-up room. He was so drowsy and sweet. He ate his orange Popsicle like a champ and was relatively chill when we told him he had to keep the tubes and monitors on his arms. When he wasn't allowed water he immediately asked for his grandma...I don't know which one, but I am sure in his mind they surely would have given him water after what he had gone through. :o)

We had a great experience. I am grateful for all the prayers and thoughts of friends and family. I know they were mostly for me to be brave, however, I know that everything went smoothly and better than expected because of them.

All Dolled Up

2011-02-20T12:41:00.002-05:00

I am having way too much fun dressing up this baby girl...I think I am partial to skirts and dresses...

Baby Kate

2011-02-17T21:36:00.006-05:00

Katherine Leora was born on February 12th around 1:00 a.m. She came out waving, weighed 8 lbs. 13 oz., and was 21 3/4 inches long. We are so glad that she is here and that everything went well.
The next morning Aunt Emily came into town and was pleasantly surprised that baby Kate was here!

Later that afternoon Grandma and Grandpa Dunford came with Isaac. He was so excited to see me and I heard him scream, "Mommy" from the hallway. It was so nice to hear his voice and sense his excitement. He was adorable with Kate. He sat by me on the bed and said, "I hold her." He gave her kisses and hugs and called her baby Kate over and over. He also tried to make her jump up and down in his arms...

I have written down the full story but don't want to put it on the blog as we aren't private...If you want me to send it to you let me know. Overall, it was night and day compared to Isaac. Despite the induction, I was able to have her naturally without any pain medication. It was just what I wanted. I am so glad I was able to have that experience. It is what I had been praying for. A non-traumatic labor and delivery...one where I wouldn't be upset whenever I heard other women telling their birth stories. It is hard to describe, but although I am very grateful for Isaac's birth and how it happened, I felt like something was missing. Anyway, She's here! She's finally here!

My last post was in November?

2011-02-01T20:38:00.002-05:00

Wow, I can't believe my last post was in November. How boring!

Since November we have:
1. Accepted a job offer to the Cleveland Clinic for an administrative fellowship.
2. Gone to Muskegeon for Thanksgiving with half of the Witt's.
3. Celebrated Christmas in Michigan with the Joneses and the Dunford's.
4. Watched Laura in a choir performance at Interlochen.
5. Potty trained Isaac.
6. Jonathan started a P90X regime and is following it religiously.
7. Abby was diagnosed with two heart conditions (possible ASD and a type of tachycardia.)
Note: While these were very taxing and tiring...I have been given heart meds and am feeling much better in these final weeks of pregnancy. I will have further tests and possible cures after baby comes.)
8. I made some changes to Isaac's heirloom cradle. A lovely man from our church congregation helped me and it is now stained and ready to go.
9. Crocheted baby girl's baby blanket and finished many other sewing projects.
10. We got a bed for our anniversary!! It is beautiful and every time I look at it I smile and feel like a grown-up.

It has been a busy couple of months. I am now playing the waiting game and hopefully will have this baby within the next week. Her due date is this Friday, February 4th.

This post came to mind tonight. I thought it was funny...and reminiscent... : Yes...a Christmas Ham...yikes.

Obsession with Excercise

2010-11-16T13:55:00.004-05:00

In July Jonathan and I ran a half marathon together. I ran throughout my first trimester and ran this race when I was 11 weeks pregnant. Unfortunately, for Jonathan, that meant that he had to run REALLY slow. I was paranoid about my heart rate and had to run about 12 minute miles. It was really great to be together though and came in handy when it was pitch black and we were trying to finish. I should post about how awful the race was organizationally...not to mention that we were offered cold beer at the end. After this race I stopped training. I ran for a couple weeks with Isaac but then I stopped.

After a month or so I looked into getting a pass at the community rec center. They have a really nice facility and it is a couple minutes from my house. I started swimming and could only go for 10-15 minutes tops! I felt pathetic but it was so refreshing! I have become obsessed with it and go at least twice a week. Early in the morning or right after we put Isaac to bed I run out the door to go swim. I have never really done lap swimming before and I have fallen in love with it. I can now go over 30 minutes if a want to. I love the smell of the water and feeling bouyant. I am getting bigger now, and am in the third trimester. I hope to continue swimming up to the end of my pregnancy. It is so calming. I love having the desire to get to the pool!

Caught in the Act

2010-11-07T20:21:00.001-05:00

At least it wasn't the mascara...he was having a lot of fun.

Trick-or-Treating Galore

2010-10-30T20:17:00.001-04:00

Isaac with his buddy Quinn. They have a lot of fun together!

Isaac and I had a crazy day! We spent the afternoon trick or treating on Main Street in Ann Arbor. It is an annual activity where the shops downtown open their doors and pass out candy. We went last year but Isaac was too little to do anything. We just walked around in the stroller. This year however, Isaac figured it out! He had multiple meltdowns at first when I tried to help him understand that we put the candy in our bag for later. His little brain just didn't understand why he couldn't have it right then! Each store had balloons out front so he would find the balloons, run to them, and then go inside and say Trick-or-treat until he found the person with the candy. Sometimes he would take two and give one of them to a child behind him. He would then exclaim, "I'm nice!" By the time we came home I was worn out. Three of the blocks didn't have candy and I had to carry him on my shoulders. I needed the work out...

Every time someone asked or stated if he was Bob the Builder he would push the button on his belt that made sounds from the show. It was adorable. Later that night we went to the church trunk-or-treat. I had never done it before and it was a lot of fun. Jonathan was able to take Isaac to the cars and see how adorable Isaac was getting candy. Isaac and Jonathan walked around in the costume parade as well. It was a really fun day. I am okay with celebrating Halloween on the 29th. I think we have had plenty of fun celebrating and have enough candy to last us (or my therapy kids...) awhile!

Jonathan and I decided that we need to get into the Halloween spirit and come up with costumes. If we aren't creative enough, we decided we would just do whatever our friends the Adamson's did the previous year. Too bad we didn't think of it in time. I think Jonathan would have made a great Tornado!

A much needed visit!

2010-10-30T18:23:00.003-04:00

Isaac loving the cow train! He had a lot of fun but wouldn't go on it again...

Julia came to Michigan again this Fall. She is one of my closest friends and it was really good to see her.

She mainly came to see her sister who lives in Midland, but I tend to tag along A LOT!! We just hung out and played with the kids mostly. There isn't too much to do in Midland...
I turned around in this picture because I didn't want to show my pregnant belly...

Rocket Blasters!

2010-10-06T22:36:00.003-04:00

Jonathan and his friend had been waiting awhile to get together to make Rocket blasters. I of course do not know the technical term... So Labor Day we went over to the Gibsons to hang out and make the Rocket Blasters.

It took them a LONG time to make them. They were sawing PVC pipes, sodering electrical wires, you name it. I think they finished about midnight. Despite the late hour they still had to test them out. The neighbors thought people were shooting fireworks, but it was still worth it!

The kids had a blast. The Gibson kids are so good with Isaac and he and Claire love hanging out! I love the picture where they are both pointing at something. That was not staged.

Thanks for having nerd-like tendencies Jonathan! I am sure we will use your Rocket Blaster for many entertaining evenings with our kids!

Baby /Diter/!

2010-09-29T22:23:00.003-04:00

Isaac is going to have a baby sister in February! We found out the gender a couple weeks ago. I was so excited that I went and bought something pink the very same day. Isaac's closet is slowly filling up with Pink. I always get something on sale and there have been a few people who have generously donated clothes and blankets. I think we will be okay. If nothing else, she will look good in blue...

I can't get my scanner to work, I wanted to post a picture of our other little bean. Not many people know this, but we had a traumatic miscarriage from March to April of this year. We found out at 11 weeks. I have a sweet Ultra Sound picture of our little one that I have been meaning to post. I love looking at it and remembering the love I had for him/her. It has been a long year of being pregnant, but so worth it. While my second pregnancy was very sad, I learned a lot from it. I emotionally/mentally healed from Isaac's crazy birth experience. (Which I didn't realize I needed to do) I can relate to others who have dealt with this type of disappointing loss and I cannot even fathom the idea of having a new born right now. His/Her due date was September 24, 2010 and being in the throws of Jonathan's recruiting/job application process, I can see how this would have been an additional strain on him and our family at this time.

How grateful I am for the gospel of Jesus Christ. I know I will see my sweet little one again someday. I know that Heavenly Father has a plan for us. While we may be going through trials, he will help us bear our burdens and can see the end from the beginning.

We have been blessed to be able to have another baby so soon after a loss. I love this sweet baby with all of my heart. I can't wait to meet her!

Reminiscing

2010-09-29T22:21:00.002-04:00

Hilarious! I was perusing my blog from 2008 and found this entry. Take a peek!

http://dunfordfamilyblog.blogspot.com/2008/07/only-in-detroit.html

Trains

2010-09-06T08:53:00.003-04:00

Jonathan creates the most intricate train tracks for Isaac. They are always different! Today the boys let me sleep in and I woke up to this. It goes under the bed to make another tunnel! I love my boys. Look at that smile! We have borrowed this train set from a friend and Thomas was a gift from Isaac's cousin Jake. He has played/held it every day for two months. I think we should invest in some more trains for him...There have been some changes in his room as well! He has been sleeping in his big boy bed for about 2 months now and someone gave us a toy organizer. It seems like a big boy room now.

Birthday Party!!

2010-09-04T21:54:00.003-04:00

Ring around the Rosies

The fishing game!

Isaac and Elizabeth

What a Party!! Isaac shared his birthday party with his friend Elizabeth. They are a week apart so we thought we would celebrate together! (Not to mention that Anne is due with her second this week...)

Anyway! It was a success!! There were lots of 2 year-olds. Prizes, bubbles, songs, balloons, water balloons that didn't pop easily, yummy cupcakes, and presents. The kids were rolling the water balloons down the concrete drive way, throwing them on the grass/ground and they lasted! They were having a blast with them.

I don't think Isaac realized he was having a birthday party. He can't even say, "I'm Two." But he had a blast doing all of his favorite things! And he had a lot of practice blowing out candles on our camping trip so he blew out the fire (/faider/) immediately!

He is such a happy boy. I love him to pieces!

Sleeping Bear Camping Trip

2010-09-04T21:25:00.002-04:00

The past two years we have gone to Lake Michigan for Labor Day...and this year my parents weren't doing it. So, I took the matter into my own hands and planned a camping trip to the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes. We invited Jonathan's mom and brother Trenton to come with us. We had a blast! The weather was not warm and sunny. In fact, the first night, while we were playing cards, it started to rain and we hadn't prepped the rain fly on the tent yet. So we scurried around to get everything to the tent and listen to Jonathan and Trenton scramble in the rain to get the tarp up. It was hilarious hearing them laugh so hard, and thankfully, they got the rain fly up in time to prevent all of our bedding and clothes from getting wet.

We were in the heart of the storm that night and I didn't sleep very well. Isaac slept right through everything though. I thought the next day would be miserable but it didn't rain and turned out to be nice. We hiked up the sand dunes and went on the "scenic drive." The overlook to Lake Michigan was sooo windy!! It was hilarious because Isaac has never really felt big gusts of wind before and he looked really confused. He also thought the boardwalk was a train track!

The dunes were fun. Jonathan and Trenton were having jumping competitions and running as fast as they could down the hills.

After dinner, we went to the shore. It was breathtaking! The beach was covered in smooth beautiful rocks, and the view over the lake was just what I needed. I am going to miss Michigan if we move.

The next night was dry, and we got up in the morning and went on a canoe trip down the Platte River. Isaac loved being in the boat, and thankfully, decided it was best to stay in his seat! He kind of had a nervous look on his face like when we went on a paddle boat for memorial day. The plan was to stay at the beach on lake Michigan after the canoe ride, but it was raining. Then, when the rain stopped we went out and were attacked by flies! It was gross and really annoying. They were biting at us! So, we decided to turn in and drive back.

What an awesome vacation! Now it is back to the grind. Jonathan is applying to some fellowships before school starts so that he can really focus on the job hunt.

I might need another vacation in another couple months from all of the anticipated stress!

Jones Cousin Road Trip

2010-09-04T21:12:00.002-04:00

My mom, Isaac, and I drove to Minnesota to pick up Roxann and the kids in June to go to the Jones family reunion in Utah. It was a blast riding to Utah with these kids. We had so much fun. We took our time and had a blast. We even stayed at a hotel with an indoor water park! Isaac is obsessed with water and Jackson and Charlotte were going down all the slides without hesitation. Isaac needed a few pushes, but loved it.
The kids at "the presidents." That was what Charlotte called Mount Rushmore. She was so excited to see them.
Isaac refused to get on the dinosaur but Jackson was all for it! He is such a daredevil!
This is the Corn Palace. My mom was dying to stop because she would always stop with her family whenever they traveled out west. They change the outside every year using corn husks and corn to create a different look/mural.

Charlotte and Isaac wouldn't go near the creepy corn guy. Jackson, you were so brave!!

dgats^ and sharshar

2010-08-13T10:30:00.001-04:00

We had a really fun summer hanging out with Jackson, Charlotte, and Aunt Roxann!! The title of the post is how Isaac pronounces their names. This was when they were in Midland visiting and we went to a Loons game and the park. It was a lot of fun having more than one cousin at Gramdma's house!!! We miss you guys!

A Southern Experience Part II

2010-08-08T16:23:00.002-04:00

Katie and I went on a swamp tour and saw alligators, wild boars, egret, blue heron, and really cool trees and old beaten down weekend "homes." The alligator was huge!! They said she was almost 1,000 lbs. It's amazing the show you can get when you have hot dogs and marshmallows.

Katie and I were quite wind blown by the end of the tour, but it felt good in that Lousianna heat!
I had all sorts of great Southern food like gumbo, red beans and rice, shaved ice (I forgot what they called it) and what not. It was an awesome trip. Hopefully, next time will be in the winter time!!! We miss you Abernethy's!!!!!

A Southern Experience

2010-08-08T16:07:00.003-04:00

In the beginning of June Isaac and I went to visit the Abernethy's in New Orleans!!! I had never been to the South and it was quite the experience!!!

Hunter and Isaac had a blast and acted more like brothers by the end of the week.

The biggest reason for going to New Orleans was, for me to see Katie!!!..(ahem) I mean, meet little Noah. He was only a week and a half old and as adorable as they get!

Per Popular Request...

2010-08-08T16:04:00.002-04:00

Well, I took a hiatus. In some ways it can be stressful to blog. However, throughout the summer numerous people have given me a hard time for not posting. Not to mention, we have a lot of family who live all over and some really good friends have recently finished school and moved away. I would be sad if they just stopped blogging as well. So, here we go again. Hopefully, I will be more faithful this time around.

Kalahari

2010-03-04T11:20:00.002-05:00

Isaac gave kisses to his monkey friend while Lucy and I watched.

Catching the fear on his face! He absolutely loved being in the water and will turn into fish someday.
This monkey was at the top of the stairs to some of the slides. Isaac gave an anatomy lesson everytime he went up. Eyes, Nose, Mouth, Ears, Feet...

The Resort was fabulous. We had such a great time with our friends but especially as a family. Isaac loved being in the water. I don't think he smiled very much though because he was so intent on what he was doing. There was a lot going on! We also played basketball in the water and went in the wave pool as a family.

As for the adult slides, they were pretty good. There was a "toilet bowl" when you go down a steep slide into a huge bowl. Then, it plops you down the middle into some water. I also liked going on the boogie board one. I did pretty well for a first timer.

It was such a nice get away...I can't wait for summer weather!

Per Emily's Request...

2010-01-10T15:36:00.003-05:00

Isaac is unfortunately obsessed with the wii. He will use any remote to swing around. Since we have been home from Grandma's I have had to hide them from him. I don't think it is healthy the way he wants it.
Emily and Isaac
Trying on bones with Grandpa at the Children's Museum.
Isaac and Mary

Enjoying the snow with Daddy. Note, this was only possible if he was held. Isaac freaked out and would lay down in the snow if he was put down...I am not sure what the logic was in that. It was adorable though.

In Love...

2010-01-09T20:22:00.003-05:00

Reese's Blanket. It was supposed to be reminiscent of Argyle...It took forever to finish. I took a lot of breaks...
Dr. Jones sporting his new PJ's. He felt a little awkward at first in long basketball shorts. He is used to the short short kind...in the end, I think he liked them!
Isaac loving Reese. The boy was magnetized to her. He was always wanting to hold her and give her loves. It was adorable. I have many many pictures of them. What a sweet baby boy.
Creating colored rice for my sensory table. The colors turned out really well. I am going to bring in snow next week.
He really doesn't like haircuts.

Couldn't resist...

2009-12-01T21:47:00.004-05:00

Random pics that I love...

Grandma U. I can't seem to get my blogger to function and post videos...so there is a picture of Isaac RUNNING! Yes, he has skills. He runs, climbs on top of things, chases you, you name it.

Our cousin Laura Otto brought her dog Riley to Thanksgiving festivities. Isaac had a lot of fun with him! Also, who knows what Isaac actually ate over the holiday. He was always reaching onto tables to grab food...you would think we starved him...

Candy Cane Discovery

2009-12-01T21:35:00.005-05:00

Isaac helped me decorate the tree tonight. As I finished putting up the garland I noticed that he had taken off a candy cane, removed the wrapper, and smiled at me with a wet sticky candy cane in his hands. My first impression was, "I should take that a way." Then within the same instant I figured I didn't want to squelch his discovery. How did he know that it was an edible thing? How in the world did he remove the wrapper? Why is he so dang cute? I think I won the coolest mom award tonight...

(Isaac always makes those circular lips with an "ooh" when he is excited about something)

Halloween 2009

2009-11-13T13:06:00.006-05:00

Jonathan was in San Fransisco while Isaac and I celebrated Halloween. I found a cute monkey costume at the consignment shop for 3 dollars. It looked too cute and vaguely familiar. It was only later that night that I realized it had been the same costume Charlotte wore one year. Jackson was also going to be this monkey. So, the boys were identical monkeys this year. We were invited to a party at the Gray's house. We had a bobbing for apples contest and a donut eating contest. I came in first place for the girls (I was the only one who participated) and I should have been first for the donut contest. I was second to last, although I didn't know that. And I had eaten the most of anyone before it fell off. If Jonathan was there to stick up for me, I am sure I could have won first place.

The day before Halloween I went to the library storytime and trick or treating down Main street. It was a lot of fun. I used the opportunity to teach Isaac how to say please in sign. It didn't seem to be clicking two weeks ago but this week, he is starting to get the idea. If he says please he will get something he wants...usually. I also made Isaac a black felt trick or treat bag with a ghost on it. It is really cute.

Halloween was a blast.

Sans Isaac

2009-11-13T10:03:00.004-05:00

The last time I ran in a race was over two years ago at the Air Force Marathon in Dayton Ohio. This of course was before I was a mother. (it was a relay marathon, 6 miles) Unfortunately, I have only run a handful of times since then.

My friend Natalie and Jonelle were talking about upcoming races at my house on Sunday. They were thinking of running the CowTown Marathon in Fort Worth. I immediately got excited because my little sister lives there and I thought it might be motivating for both of us to train and get back into shape. (She just had her baby girl three weeks ago) So this week, with some motivation, I have already run 7 miles. 4 of which I ran with Isaac. (With my old, awful, veer to the left jogging stroller.) I was initially going to attempt a full marathon. However, with Michigan winter approaching, and Eliza's recent physical demands, we decided to run the half instead.

I am so excited. I have never run anything greater than an 8k race. While it isn't a marathon, I still feel like this will be an ambitious goal that I will have to work hard to achieve. It will also get me into shape and I will be able to run a race with my sister!!!

To die for...

2009-11-13T09:52:00.004-05:00

I was looking through my pictures and fell in love with these! I LOVE THEM! So I thought I would share. We were still living in Omaha so Isaac was about 10 months old. He has had this outfit since he was 6 months old and he is still wearing it! We sure got our money's worth out of it.

Fall activities

2009-11-13T09:45:00.003-05:00

Isaac loves to be outside. He always finds a stick to play with, throws rocks, and walks up and down the side walk outside our house.

When we went to the pumpkin patch he was adorable! He was so excited about all of the orange pumpkins. He probably thought they were balls...

He throws fits...

2009-11-13T09:40:00.004-05:00

Yes, he only does this with his mother. Even when I don't respond to the fit, he continues to do them. Poor little boy. And no, the bump on his forehead is not from his fits. He had a head on collision with the coffee table...

Dinosaurs, packages, and fire!

2009-09-17T22:15:00.005-04:00

Well, it was quite the project making Isaac's cake for his birthday. I underestimated how long it would take to make homemade fondant, color, and decorate it. I think we wiped the floors and counters a half a dozen times and mopped twice... Sticky stuff. We initially celebrated Isaac's birthday during Labor Day. Then, we had a kid party on his actually birthday. Here is the picture of the dinosaur cake. He almost touched the fire on the candle when he was supposed to blow it out.

The slideshow is the sequence of events that took place to open Charlotte and Jackson's present. Thanks guys. It was hilarious watching him hoard the fruit snacks in his hand.

Sick of Curtains?

2009-09-08T20:24:00.002-04:00

I am. I would rather show off a handsome blondie! We went to South Haven, MI for Labor Day. My parents rented a vacation home on the shore and it was breathtaking! We had so much fun. Isaac had an aversion to sand. He couldn't bear to touch it at first. By the third day it was tolerable enough to stand on and maybe quickly grab a stick. I hope he doesn't have sensory issues!

Project- #2

2009-08-23T21:56:00.006-04:00

Before and After pics...with some of Isaac in between.

CURTAINS!!!

Close up of Fabric and Finials!

I got great deals on the fabric and hardware. I spent less than $100 bucks for all of my window treatments. It has been so fun.I am changing the second window. I am going to spray paint the hardware from gold to black and put rings up like in the other. I just haven't had time today.

In the dining room, I used the back side of the fabric because I liked the contrast. I also like how it works with my yellow gold chairs. I made fabric rings of the chair fabric as well. (That was a pain, but doable!)

If you don't like something about your house. Change it. Buy fabric, paint. It will be so worth it!!!

Projects- Post #1

2009-08-23T21:45:00.003-04:00

Here are some pics of my finished black chairs with new upholstery! They are so much better than the brown with black 'pleather" seats. I will paint the table legs this week, I have a fun idea for the table top!

The chair fabric is hard to get up close. There are textured squares with white dots. I love them!!!

A Creative Flare

2009-07-27T09:30:00.011-04:00

I have been preparing for our move back to Ann Arbor. I have a lot of time on my hands, and have a thousand thoughts in my head about how to have a more design flow in my home. I am grateful for all of the contributions we have received/gathered over the years. Especially, since we have been going through grad school for three years and have two years left. Money is tight. Despite my feeling of gratitude, I usually come home, look around, and feel frustrated. "nothing goes together" Well, I have researched, perused decorating blogs, copy and pasted tutorial links for projects, and am ready to go.

Here are some of the things I would like to accomplish in August:

Refinish my dining room table and chairs

Make curtain rods (the cool kind with finials and all)

Upholster my dining room chairs

Refinish the coffee table

Paint the nursery and determine an accent color for the wall in the living room

These projects will hopefully allow me to feel less frustrated in my home.

P.S. Does anyone know a good home organization blog? I need some ideas.

Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My!

2009-07-19T21:30:00.009-04:00

Yesterday we went to the Omaha Zoo. Supposedly it is quite famous and the #2 zoo in the country. We packed a lunch and got everything ready to go. So, maybe Saturday wasn't the best time to go. I have never seen so many lines! Parking, admission, exhibition centers. At first it was pretty bad but then as people began to spread out throughout the zoo it was better. Isaac of course was a little young to appreciate all of it. However, when he did manage to fix his sight on an animal he would watch it for awhile. It was really sweet. We had fun doing something together just as a family.

July 4th and Extended Trip

2009-07-14T11:00:00.003-04:00

We took a trip to Minneapolis for the Fourth of July. We celebrated Charlotte and America's birthday. We went to Charlotte's parade and Charlotte's fireworks. We stayed at the Empty Nesters house. It was awesome to spend time with our niece and nephew and hang out with Phil, Roxann, and her family. Here are some pics!

After the weekend my Aunt Heather picked me up in Des Moines and drove me to Iowa City. My grandpa had been in the ICU for a week in critical condition. After a week of practically living in the hospital and spending time with family, Grandpa finally got better and is now in a step-down unit recovering. Poor Jonathan. He had to go another week this summer without his wife and son.

I don't have any pictures, but we did spend time with Isaac's cousin Jacob and had fun memories with other cousins and family.

Gamers

2009-06-30T13:40:00.005-04:00

I found a really great website for infant computer games. It could be considered educational as it assists them in learning cause and affect. Plus I like being able to control what he is doing on the computer. Banging the keyboard now serves a purpose. Try it out.

www.babygamer.com

A lot has been happening

2009-06-20T21:04:00.002-04:00

First off, Isaac and I are finally with Jonathan in Omaha. It has been so great to be reunited again as a family. It was a long 6 weeks. Since I hardly blogged at all during that time, here is an update:

Isaac is crawling, cruising, and getting into everything.
Isaac loves swimming and eating independently.
Jonathan has loved his internship. He has a fancy office all to himself.
Our apartment rocks.
Isaac loves to explore.
My great grandma is doing awesome!
I have fallen in love with my great aunt and uncle's little girls.
My cousin Josh got into Medical School.
I finished everything at school and am living, essentially, a stress free life.
I am taking over a maternity leave at an Ann Arbor school in the fall to finish my internship.
I am rereading the Harry Potter series.
I received the fabric to reupholster my dining room chairs when I get home.
I have an awesome idea for the 3 girls who commented on my blog.
We purchased an SLR camera...and therefore will now have pictures to post.

Want a Surprise?

2009-06-02T20:42:00.002-04:00

My friend Brooke initiated a fun project. I read her blog and immediately wanted to be a part of it. So here's the scoop...

The first three people to leave a comment on this post will receive something made by me. However, there are some limitations:

1. I make no guarantee that you will like what I make.
2. What I create will be just for you.
3. It will be done this year.
4. You have no clue what it is going to be - cards, bows, a bag, frame or a little invention of my own. I may bake something and mail it to you . Who knows? Not you that’s for sure!
5. I reserve the right to do something extremely strange. It may blow your mind!

Here’s the catch, if you choose to do this. You must post this on your blog and be ready to make something for three people too. This will be fun! When you receive the fabulous item I make you, you must post a picture of it on your blog.

Are you brave enough to comment? I really do like doing fun crafts. Maybe I will be inspired by Designmom

An Awesome Resource

2009-05-17T23:38:00.003-04:00

So today I was perusing the web as I was studying my scriptures. There was a website sponsered by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints that has html and pdfs of all of the classes offered in the Church Education System. They have manuals on the Old Testament, New Testament, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, Church History, Eternal Marriage, etc... I loved the html versions because they had links to specific scriptures and quotes from modern-day prophets. If I didn't know about this I am sure others haven't. What a great resource to study the words of Christ. I am excited to utilize this. Here is the link: http://www.ldsces.org/

I know that by studying the scriptures we can strengthen our relationship with the Savior and our families.

Food Frenzy

2009-05-17T08:48:00.003-04:00

Isaac is starting to get serious with his food now. He actually eats it and doesn't blow at the spoon. I gave him cheerios yesterday, hesitantly of course. Everything the books say and other people say make me nervous. I never know if I am doing anything right. Especially, since I am not home to give him a schedule. Anyway, I was researching when you can give a baby cheerios and came upon an article called, Debunking Baby Food Myths.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/9646449/page/2/ ( I can't get it to link...)

I just need to relax and not worry so much about following the rules. I am going to make smart choices and go buy some Hummus for him. I LOVE hummus!

Any thoughts?

Pictures

2009-05-13T17:44:00.001-04:00

Here are some random pictures of Isaac and the house we will be renting for the rest of B-School.

A post

2009-05-12T21:39:00.005-04:00

I don't know where to start... In the past week we have moved, put on a wedding, said good-bye to Daddy, started living in a basement at a friends house, taken care of Marian and her brand new baby, went to Saginaw for Mother's Day, and continued to work full-time. Isaac is having a blast hanging out with his aunt Mary all day while I am at work. He has two bottom teeth and weighs a ton.

So to all of you who have called the "fatness" as a term of endearment....it's true. He's a fatty.

On the Move!

2009-04-10T09:25:00.003-04:00

Isaac is trying really hard to move around. He rolls from front to back now. Gracefully gets into a tummy position from sitting. Angles to the side, reaches for everything, and tries to climb up onto things like tables, chairs and dishwashers.

He scoots somehow on his bottom. I haven't seen him do it but I have put him in one place and have found him at least 2 feet away from it a couple minutes later. He is pretty determined.

Here is a slideshow of his talented moves. Yes, he pulled out the dishwasher drawer by himself. It was full.

Rolling Over

2009-04-07T23:01:00.003-04:00

Here is the latest and greatest thing at our house! Isaac is rolling over! Katie, who watches Isaac, wanted to show us that he could do it and got these clips. Then, that night Isaac would roll over and over again for me on the floor. I was so proud. He does it so effortlessly. He also likes to pull himself up when I place him inside the laundry basket...

Thrusting forward

2009-03-22T12:49:00.004-04:00

Above: Isaac still doesn't quite know what to do with his mesh bag of food. The top picture is his classic first reaction whenever he eats something.

Below: Isaac was skyping with Aunt Eliza and trying to reach forward towards the laptop. It is a good motivator to get him crawling I think. Here is the gradual progression of his attempts. He got closer and closer each time.

Toy Attack

2009-03-22T12:13:00.003-04:00

We still don't understand where his crazed behavior is coming from. He does this every time this toy gets near him...hilarious!

2 weeks

2009-03-17T22:06:00.002-04:00

2 weeks without posting any pictures or videos of my little man. I guess you will just have to wait a little longer...

Current stats:
Weight 20.5 (didn't even gain a pound in two months)
Height 29"

Sitting up without assistance.
Reaching for everything.
Puts weight on his arms during tummy time.
Inches his butt up like a worm during tummy time.
Babbling ...he is a chatter

Not sleeping through the night
Not rolling over
Not liking his baby food

Twinners

2009-02-26T20:38:00.005-05:00

Katie and I went shopping and found pajama's for Hunter that matched Isaac's. A couple days later they were both wearing them and she took a photo shoot of them. Aren't they adorable!! Last week when I went over to their house, Isaac got really excited when he saw Hunter. I wonder what the reaction will be after these two weeks are over. Cute boys.

Eight Days with Isaac

2009-02-25T18:59:00.008-05:00

Tonight Isaac showed interest in water. He has been having a bath every night for the past two weeks. It has always been in his plastic tub. At first it made him nervous. Now that he is sitting up on his he gets into curiosity mode. Tonight, as he was sitting in his plastic tub about a foot and a half from the faucet he started reaching and staring at the water. I decided to graduate him from his plastic tub...

Grandpa Jones came down on his day off with Grandma. He hung out with Isaac. Sorry Em. There aren't any funny videos. I did tape some but dad wasn't in a silly mood.
We went to visit Hayden and Andrea Hooper on Wednesday. We went to a place called MyUrbanToddler. It is a store/play land. There was a lot of things for kids to do. A library, kitchen, theatre, art room, firehouse, and lots of toys. In the middle there was a little infant area. I put Isaac in there to play and practice his sitting skills. There were little soft plastic cars that would move when you pulled them back. He loved them!! I need to find them somewhere for him. Hayden is about a year older than Isaac. He is adorable. It is hard to imagine Isaac will be like him in a year.

I was determined to use my gDiapers on my week off. I used cloth for about 5 days. It was relatively simple. I am encouraged to do it more often. He didn't have any blowouts onto his clothes while wearing them. Not to mention he is absolutely adorable!!!
These are just a few highlights of my week off!! I loved being home with Isaac. I can't wait for the summer!

A Jumperoo Addendum

2009-02-17T22:52:00.003-05:00

My sisters were not satisfied with a video of Isaac's "one leg." Hopefully, this will appease their Isaac cravings.

Sorry that it is sideways... I am sure you can adjust your monitors.

The Jumperoo

2009-02-16T00:12:00.006-05:00

My co-worker, Trish, offered to give Isaac her sons old Rainforest Jumperoo since he had grown out of it. I was so excited, especially since Isaac would already jump up and down when he was excited. I knew he would love it. Well, she brought it in to work on Friday and I set it up myself that afternoon.

This video is the morning after he got it. I put him in and started doing stuff around the house. I thought he looked really tall but didn't think anything of it. Then after awhile I noticed he only had one foot out. You never would have known the way he continued to jump up and down with full force. He is really strong.

Then later on that day, he was in the Jumperoo making all sorts of racket. Jonathan and I were sitting on the couch right in front of him doing other things. Then all of a sudden we noticed that it was really quiet. We looked over to find our son fast asleep.

Omaha...here we come!

2009-02-15T19:16:00.006-05:00

Jonathan was accepted as a summer intern at the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. He will be working on projects with the "c-suite" and his direct mentor is the CEO. They flew him out to Omaha last weekend for an all day interview. Jonathan spent the day before at the zoo and eating a genuine Omaha steak. It was his first official business trip and he was really excited. We will be living in Omaha this summer. Unfortunately, we will have to be apart for 6 weeks of it, since I will be in Michigan finishing off the school year until mid-June.

The zoo looks like a lot of fun. Maybe Isaac and I will have to get a season pass or something. Another great thing about going to Omaha is that my Great-grandma Wilcox and my dad's uncle live there. We will be able to spend some quality time with them and become better acquainted.

Piano

2009-01-27T20:32:00.003-05:00

I have started piano lessons. I love it! I get excited about scale fingering. The other night Bethany, my sister-in-law, was holding Isaac at the piano. I figured it would be a good opportunity to show how big his hands are. When he was born my dad said,"He was born with half an octave." I was trying to spread his fingers across the keys. He could have reached more but he wasn't being very cooperative.

Oral-Motor Skills

2009-01-27T20:12:00.004-05:00

So I may have gotten carried away. I purchased a booster seat (deep red and tan) for 12 dollars brand new on sale. Then, when Isaac turned 4 months old I noticed he was eyeing everyone eating food and was sitting up pretty well unsupported. So I decided to give Isaac some rice cereal. The first time was great. He was manipulating the bolus, swallowing well, and didn't have bad tongue thrust. He even liked grabbing at the spoon and bowl.

Then he started hating it. For a couple days he would humor me a little bit but would start refusing the spoon. So I have stopped. I decided I was getting ahead of myself, even though he had the skills. He is still my little baby. So for the next month or so, as long as he isn't starving, I am going to exclusively feed him. Why do we always look towards the next milestone and disregard the current level of functioning...did I really just type "current level of functioning?" Yikes...

A Feet Fettish

2009-01-27T19:57:00.007-05:00

Where does the time go. I wish I had time to think about creating witty blog posts. Unfortunately, at this time in my life I am lucky to have energy enough to get the mac, and upload pictures. Only 4 full months left of working full-time!! Then Isaac will be even more entertaining. So, until, occasional uploads to appease the crazy aunts will have to do.

Here he is touching his feet. He has been doing this for two weeks now. He likes to pull at the cloth around his feet and eat it. He did this the first time during a diaper change. Now he does it all the time!
Okay, so he isn't exactly pulling at his feet here...but he does pull them to his face I promise!

Isaac's Raspberries

2009-01-16T21:04:00.003-05:00

These are Isaac's first attempts to produce raspberries. He can't quite get his lips to vibrate and move. They are more like air puffs. He is adorable. He is starting to grab at his feet, grabbing things, and loves watching us eat...

My boys

2008-12-14T21:43:00.003-05:00

Isaac is using my mini computer. It is just about his size!

First Laugh

2008-12-14T21:21:00.003-05:00

He laughed out loud for the first time this week. All Jonathan does is drop him down..never letting go of course...

Isaac absolutely adores Jonathan.

Bubbles

2008-12-14T21:14:00.002-05:00

First encounter with air blowing on his face...

He would blow out bubbles every time!!

Sitting up

2008-12-04T22:27:00.004-05:00

Isaac has been supporting his head really well for almost two weeks now. He plays airplane with dad a lot. Jonathan is always practicing standing and sitting and playing with him. In a previous facebook album I posted a picture of him experimenting with the bumbo seat for the first time. He was not a happy camper. Now, however, he can sit in it for up to ten minutes or more. It is awesome! He looks like a big kid sitting up.

Hand and Head milestones

2008-12-04T22:09:00.003-05:00

Isaac has found his hands! He likes to eat them, suck on them, grab onto things, and play with my face. It is adorable! He has also started to squeal and has attempted to make raspberries!!!

2008-11-16T14:27:00.003-05:00

Isaac was singing away while I was listening to Eric Clapton this afternoon. He also joined in during Choir practice last Sunday. It was hilarious!

Christmas Stockings!

2008-11-16T14:02:00.004-05:00

Okay, Jonathan isn't home so I can't get stupid blogger to lay out the pictures the way I want them to.

Can you guess which picture was taken without Jonathan assisting to get a smile? That's right, the second one!

Below is the story about the stockings...

My Grandma Jones has made stockings for all of her grandkids. She hasn't been able to knit due to her arthritis for many years now. Unfortunately, for me, I didn't think my family could carry on the same Christmas tradition. Then, my friend LeAnne introduced me to Etsy. It is similar to Ebay except it is all homemade crafts/things. I was perusing "knitted stockings" and found a woman who made stockings just like my grandma. I sent her a picture of my families stockings and asked her to make them for me. She said that it wasn't the exact same pattern but she had the one my grandma used!! I about fell out of my chair with excitement. I can think of 3 other times I have been so excited. My engagement, wedding, and the day we found out Jonathan was accepted to U of M. (I was too exhausted to be excited when Isaac was finally born. Also, I was more shocked than excited when I found out we were expecting a baby. You would think those events would be more exciting than finding out about stockings...oh well...)

Thank you jpyle from Etsy! You made my Christmas this year!

Playing with Daddy

2008-11-16T13:35:00.005-05:00

Isaac has been smiling at us. I really think they are purposeful now. Jonathan gets a lot more smiles than I ever do. All he has to say is "Hi, Isaac!" And he is all smiles. In the morning he talks with his dad. I was trying to get him to smile for some pictures and had to get Jonathan to come over and play with him so I could. I don't know what it is. I think they are already starting to form a father and son bond.

Here is Jonathan helping him sit up. He was just holding his hands to help him balance. He is getting stronger and stronger everyday.

This is what happened when Jonathan stopped playing with him and put him down.

Assisted Tummy Time

2008-11-16T13:27:00.004-05:00

Isaac likes tummy time when he uses the Boppy! I love his big blue eyes. I have to enjoy them while I can since they are bound to turn brown.

Another cute picture...

2008-11-10T22:17:00.004-05:00

Isaac being prim and proper holding his little wrist. I know, I know, my son is adorable.

A call for pictures...

2008-11-10T22:06:00.004-05:00

Hanging out with Ana and Hunter at the church Halloween party.

Jonathan's classmates bought Isaac some outfits. These pictures were from when he put together a fashion show. Yes, he dressed him up. The pea pod costume/snuggly and the giraffe pajamas. If you look closely enough you can see the giraffe ears and face on his feet.

Yes, he is as big as his 6-8 month old friends. The only difference is that I had to hold him up.

Go figure. We get tired out....he has some Jones in him.

What's Isaac learning?

2008-11-02T18:54:00.002-05:00

Charlotte was very inquisitive yesterday when she called and asked, "What is Isaac learning?" So, this video is for Charlotte and all others who want to see an adorable boy cooing and smiling!

Isaac Cooing Video

Happy Viewing!

Jake and Isaac's first encounter

2008-10-19T22:56:00.004-04:00

Angela and Jake were in Michigan for a visit and the cousins were finally able to meet in person. I say that because we have pictures of Jake sitting on Isaac when he was still in me. They were quite humorous. I think it is in the abyss of my mother's picture files. Maybe one day it will surface.

I just had to post these pictures. Jake was so cute with Isaac. He would lean over him, get in, his face, smack his belly, you name it and Jake did it. He was gentle enough... I can't wait until Isaac is big enough to interact more with him. It will be a lot of fun at Dunford get togethers.

My Favorite Charlotte Moment

2008-10-19T22:51:00.007-04:00

Charlotte: "Where are you going?"

Abby (As I walk out the door with my suitcase): "Home, to see Jonathan."

Charlotte: "Don't forget Isaac!"

A past lifetime

2008-10-04T01:59:00.002-04:00

Well, Isaac and I have been very busy. Finally, I feel like I have energy and am getting a hang of being a mom. So far it consists of feeding and changing him often. I also hold him, talk to him, and have gotten better at not peeking at him every five minutes to see if he is still breathing. I realized that he doesn't have to think about it and that unless there is a blanket over his face he is fine. I think I have been pretty laid back.

He has been quite the traveler. Last weekend we drove to Michigan to see Grandpa Dunford, Uncle Trenton, and Aunt Bethany. Then, on Wednesday night Isaac and I flew with Gma and Gpa Jones to Utah/Idaho to visit the great grandparents. He didn't cry once, or whimper, on the flight or during the car ride to Idaho. He has been a great baby traveler. He will be three weeks old in about an hour and fifty minutes...he is getting chubbier.

Since I have been in Idaho I have been thinking alot about when I used to live here. I went to school in a small town called Rexburg at BYU-Idaho for two years. There were a lot of positive and negative things about it of course. Most of all I have just been thinking about everything I have accomplished since I went to school there. It was there that I became somewhat of a responsible adult, realized how much the restored gospel and living it meant to me, became really good friends with Roxanne, and lived with and befriended my dear Julia. Now, six years after I have left it seems like it was a lifetime ago. Since my time here in Idaho I have accomplished every dream I ever had. I am so lucky that I don't have any regrets. I graduated from college and graduate school with the ability to work as much or as little as I want to serving others. I served two missions for the church, which were amazing, life-changing experiences, and I married an incredible man who has let me have wings to fly. I know that sounds cheesy but I can't think of a better thing to say about Jonathan. He is supportive and loves me like a queen. How can life get any better? If I knew what life would bring me as I lived here with the tumble weed and horrendous winters, I don't think I would have believed it. I have been so blessed.

Dr. Burrows

2008-09-21T23:46:00.004-04:00

Well, we have had two appointments with the pediatrician. Dr. Burrows was recommended by a friend from church. We luckily got her to see Isaac on the day they had to squeeze us in. The hospital wanted us to go the day after we came home. When we requested Dr. Burrows they said that she wasn't taking patients but that she would see him that day. After she met Isaac I think she was smitten and told them to let us continue seeing her. So we lucked out. I really like her. She is very down to earth, friendly, and took an interest in Isaac and our needs.

By the first appointment he had already lost 9% of his birth weight. He had finally gotten his eating down better and had gained 6-7 oz. in 2 days. They had us scheduled for another visit two days after his first check up. I wonder if that is the normal weight gain. If it is, he won't be little for long and that makes me sad. I hope he gains gradually so I still have a little baby for a while longer.

Those numbers are in Kilograms. He weighed 10 lbs. 10 oz.

The Dream Team

2008-09-20T20:22:00.003-04:00

Isaac and I had both Grandma Jones and Grandma Dunford come and take care of us this week. I was able to rest between feedings and start the healing process. This mostly consisted of napping and staying off my feet. Isaac got to snuggle with his grandma's and I was waited on hand and foot. I think what is more important however, is that by the time they left I felt confident in my ability to take care of Isaac. I had an idea of his personality and how to take care of his wants and needs. We have finally figured out nursing, although it is stating to hurt a little more, and night time hasn't been so bad. He is in my room now in the cradle next to my bed. He didn't even cry last night the one time he woke up to eat. He just moved around and maybe whimpered enough to let me know he was waking up. After we were done I laid down in my bed and put my hand over the bed to rock the cradle. It was perfect. I am so grateful that my mom and Pam helped me out so that I can now take even better care of their grandson.

Bath Time!

2008-09-18T21:01:00.010-04:00

Yesterday was Isaac's first bath. I don't think it was his favorite thing but it was a lot of fun to watch! At one point Grandma Jones turned him on his stomach and he got onto his knees. My first thought was that he looked like a little puppy. Then out of the blue he thrust himself towards the sink. Grandma grabbed him just before he hit himself on the sink faucet. Emily and I looked at each other amazed and thought, " Why didn't he have this type of push off to come out a week ago?

After his bath we decided it was time to have a debut with our long awaited G-Diapers!! Aren't they cute! I was originally worried that they wouldn't fit him for awhile since smalls start at 8 lbs but he fits in them like a champ! We just tried them for a couple hours and will continue to use them once I have a little more energy. I would also like to point out that my hair is not in a wet wad! I had a bath as well and actually blow dried my hair! It was very refreshing.

More of Isaac

2008-09-16T23:19:00.007-04:00

The first few days at home have been a whirlwind. Mom has been wonderful! I have been able to sleep so much because she has done everything. I feel like a queen. The most trying part is for Isaac and me to learn how to breastfeed. It has been challenging but my milk has been coming in and he is eating more. I just laughed when the visiting nurse was worried about him being a borderline emergency in his weight loss because it has already been 9%. Are we really that worried about this chunker losing a few oz.? I'm not!! We have had a breastfeeding bootcamp today and he has done SO much better! He has also been more awake and alert.

Sweet story: I got a phone call from Jonathan in the afternoon and he said he was on his way home. His original plan was to stay at school and get caught up...he told me that he couldn't pay attention in class and would just go through the pictures on the computer over and over. As soon as classes were over he was on the bus coming home to be with his boy.

He loves holding, playing, and taking care of him. He is an adorable dad!

Isaac John Dunford

2008-09-13T16:47:00.027-04:00

He is finally here!! Isaac John Dunford was born (September 13, 2008) at 1:50am after 43 long hours of labor! He was named after Jonathan's great-great-great grandfather who was the first Dunford to immigrate to America. He's healthy and doing great, and we're excited for this new addition to our family.

We wanted to share the full story with those who haven't heard it yet. We arrived at the hospital Wednesday evening to start the induction process AGAIN. The cervidil actually worked this time and when I woke up the next morning, I was 80% effaced rather than 50%. Even before they removed the cervidil, I started contracting. After discussing the matter with my midwife, we decided to continue naturally without Pitocin to see how I would be able to handle contractions on my own. Gratefully, I seemed to be doing well. I was up to 2 cm by 12pm, 4 cm by 4pm (active labor), and 6 cm by 6pm - I was so excited to be doing it by myself! (which proved to be in vain - read on).

My contractions started to become more irregular and by 8 pm I was still 6 cm dilated. It was frustrating for me, especially because I was feeling every contraction and not getting credit for it. At this point, I was faced with a tough choice - do I start pitocin, break my water, or continue on by myself?

To view the entire album, click here

I decided to hold off on the epidural and continue to endure the contractions. By midnight, though, nothing had changed at all. I was exhausted! I had been going on my own for 17 hours and had had maybe 2 hours of rest the night before. My midwife wanted to break my water and I was scared to do it without meds. We debated whether to use morphine or get an epidural. The morphine was not going to be as productive at this point in my labor and I wouldn't be able to get the rest I needed because it would only take the edge of the contractions. On the other hand, I was very scared of the epidural and had of course researched all the pros and cons. In the end however, I really needed my sleep and decided to get the epidural so that I could have rest and energy for pushing the next day. It was so difficult to have everything changing all at once. I had certain expectations of what I wanted my labor to be like. In the end I decided that I was so happy that I was able to get this far on my own and had experienced laboring on my own that I was okay to get the extra help I needed. It was also so good to make this decision with Jonathan. He was so supportive and concerned for my well being.

I was immediately prepped for the inevitable epidural. I was scared out of my mind!! I knew exactly what they were going to do and knew mentally that it wasn't a big deal. However, I wasn't prepared for it mentally and it didn't help when they rushed in saying they had to hurry because a lady was getting a c-section. My nurse had to fiddle with my IV, and in the process of being in a rush and moving me to prepare for the application of the epidural, it was pulled out! I had to get another IV. (It isn't the most comfortable procedure and this would have been the 3rd time) So between them rushing to place my IV and getting me "in position" my heart rate and blood pressure sky rocketed. I was so tense. Jonathan was right in front of me and trying to calm me down with all the nurses. It seemed like the procedure to took for ever but it ended up going well and I was prepared or the next leg of my labor process.

The next morning when I woke up, they checked me and I measured 8 cm, which was very encouraging. I was certain that the baby would come soon and he and Jackson, my nephew, would have the same birthday. Unfortunately, it didn't turn out the way I expected since I stayed dilated at an 8 from 8am until 6pm. The midwives said that it was a really good thing I decided to get an epidural with the way things went all day. They gave me pain meds throughout the day but I could tell when they were wearing off because I would feel the baby between my legs and having to start breathing through the pain of contractions. At 3:00 in the afternoon, Joanne, my midwife, said that due to the irregularity of the contractions even with the attempt to regulate with pitocin and the lack of progress I was a candidate for a c-section. I listened to her reasoning and the discussions she had with the OB/Gyn but I didn't want to do it. I asked her what the rate of VBAC's were and after she explained it to me, I mentioned that I was concerned about uterine scar tissue since I wanted to have at least 5-7 kids. If by chance I wasn't able to have a VBAC I wanted to know how that would impact my desire to have a large family.

The minute I mentioned this concern she stopped, looked at me, and her whole demeanor changed. Have I mentioned how much I love Joanne? (She has been the midwife I have seen through all my appointments and is absolutely wonderful. I was so grateful she was on call at this point of decision making in my labor.) From that moment on she became my advocate with the doctors and other midwives to make sure that everyone did everything they could to deliver vaginally. At this point, despite the amount of time it had taken me to progress from an 8, as far as I was concerned the epidural was keeping me comfortable and I could wait a little longer to see what would happen. I waited this long for my boy to come, I could keep waiting. (The baby was also a happy camper and was not showing any signs of distress) My body was working so hard I was exhausted. I kept falling asleep on people as they were talking to me and taking 1 1/2 naps throughout the day.

I finally reached a 9 at 6pm and got to a 9+ at 7:45pm!! I did it, I finally progressed! However, when Joanne checked me for the last time (her shift was ending) she said the baby's head wasn't placed right but she couldn't really tell what it was doing. He wasn't sunny-side up but he was coked to the side a bit. This may have an impact on my desire to push and the chances of a c-section increased because of it.

I rested in bed until I was asked to start pushing at 10pm. What a process. I knew that the midwives and doctor's were letting me practice pushing to see what would happen. I could tell that they were concerned and secretly thought that I would probably end up having a c-section anyway. This mentality had a huge impact on me. I was getting frustrated because I couldn't tell when I was having a contraction or feel the baby's head between my legs like i had earlier that day. I was also struggling to figure out where I was supposed to be pushing. The midwife manually mimicked the pressure of where I was supposed to push an I think I finally figured it out after an hour or so. Slowly but surely, the baby continued to creep forward, although the doctors were concerned that my uterus was running out of gas since this whole process had taken so long. When midnight started rolling around we talked about the possibility of a c-section, something I was not looking forward to at all. Fortunately, my doctors and midwives were amazing and continued to support me having this baby without a c-section. After 2 hours however, I started feeling the contractions coming on my own and I took charge of the pushing situation instead of depending on others. Also, finally the OB determined that his head was in the right position and I could keep going if I wanted to. This is all I needed to hear. From that moment on I didn't have doubts in the back of my head. I was gonna keep pushing and get him out!

At 1:20am, despite all my efforts, the doctors decided that enough was enough and that the baby needed to come out for my and the baby's safety. Since I was so close to having the baby, the doctors recommended that we pursue a vacuum delivery to get the baby out. Ten minutes later, I was in the operating room.

In the room, I had three contractions. Prior to the first contraction, they placed a suction cup on the baby's head. When the first contraction started, I pushed with everything I had and not much happened. On the second contraction the baby was so close to being out, but at the last second the suction cup came off the baby's head and made a huge POP sound. I was scared out of my mind. I didn't know what made the sound and thought something had happened to his head. Fortunately, Jonathan and my doula, Lindsay, were there to calm me down so I could get this baby out on the next contraction. When it finally came, I gave it everything I had and the baby's head came out. RELIEF!!

They took Isaac away to make sure he was okay since he had swallowed meconium and I had had an infection. Jonathan went over to be with him to take pictures while my doula, Lindsay, stayed with me while they gave me more epidural medication to numb my lungs and stitch up a third degree tear. I can't believe I still tore so badly after I had received an episiotomy. It took like a half an hour. After Isaac was checked out they weighed him. There was a gasp in the room when the scale said 11 lbs. 5 oz. My doc said he had never delivered a baby that large vaginally before. When I heard this I was secretly grateful that no one knew how big he was or else I never would have had this experience. They would have made me have a c-section.

After his weight check they dressed him up and took him to the NICU for tests. On their way out they brought him out to see me. I was getting frustrated because up to this point I had just seen his profile. This was still the case as they brought him over to me since I was flat on my back being worked on. He was so sweet!

I could go on...but I will just post pictures and add more info here and there! We love you all and are so grateful for all your love and support. It is so surreal to reflect on everything that happened. It was very long but we just took it one step at a time and are thankful that are sweet Isaac is so healthy. He is adorable and has a very sweet disposition.

He's stubborn...

2008-09-02T09:50:00.003-04:00

Well, I don't want to go into too many details right now but Jonathan and I are back from the hospital. I didn't progress like they would have liked and I didn't want to stay in the hospital waiting for two days jusdt to get my body ready to start contraction medicine...we decided it was best for the baby and me to come home and wait longer....yeah... I have been dealing with it okay. It was really disappointing at first but we know it is for the best. Sorry if I avoid any calls, I don't feel like talking right now.

Love you all. Abby

We are going in...

2008-08-31T19:13:00.002-04:00

Well, we are to report at the hospital tonight at 8:00!!! Just thought I would let everyone know. If you want updates call my mom or one of my sisters!! Next time I will have pictures of a sweet baby to post!! Hopefully, he is cute!

Changing our Blog Title

2008-08-31T04:00:00.001-04:00

Two things are definitely not going to be true after Monday. There will be more than 2 of us and it is going to happen in September...

An induction seems inevitable...

2008-08-31T03:30:00.002-04:00

Well, it is 3:30 in the morning and I woke up thirsty and hot. I have no desire to check this for grammar mistakes. I apologize in advance. My induction is tomorrow and I still haven't had any contractions or anything. I had two visits to the perinatal assessment center to make sure the little guy was okay this week and was hoping he would still decide to come on his own. I guess I didn't have that luxury. Maybe I am being pessimistic since it is 3:30 in the morning the night before the scheduled labor jumpstart. I really really didn't want to have an induction. I am scared that I may have an increased chance of a c-section and of all the complications that could occur because of it. I also really wanted to go naturally. Laugh if you want to but it was my ideal. Now I am not so sure I will be able to do it although Jonathan still thinks I can... It is going to have to depend on a lot of things. I should probably still be hoping to but I don't know...I don't know what to expect. I am extremely grateful that the baby is still happy and healthy in there whether he wanted to come out or not. My belly can't get any bigger. I think it has reached full capacity.

The waiting is finally over and I get to see my little guy very soon. This was my last night home with Jonathan before our life changes forever... it still doesn't seem real...I can't believe that I am going to be a mom within the next 72 hours. Yet, I know it is going to happen.

We went to the football game today. Michigan lost 23 to 25 to Utah! We had great seats. We were 11 rows back from the south end zone. We bought tickets from someone in Jonathan's program. It was a last minute decision last night. I was bugged because we didn't feel like we should go to the cabin on lake Michigan with my family for the weekend just in case something happened. I didn't want to be 2--3 hours away from the hospital if something did happen. I needed something to do. It is hard walking up and down the bleachers when you are 42 weeks pregnant with the constant thought that your water could break at any time. I don't know how many people bumped into my stomach. The poor guy in front of me...if he leaned back at all he would accidentally hit my belly. I was amazed at how still he was for the first 3 quarters. I was a little nervous when he wasn't moving and the decibel level was so high. Then, when things got exciting in the 4th he woke up. He gave a whopping kick at the exact same time as a kick off. It was hilarious because everyone was making that reving noise before the kick... all 108,000 of the people in the stadium... and WHAM! It was hilarious. He still didn't want to come out after all of that walking and standing. OH well, I gave it one last good faith effort.

I am planning on going to church in the morning. It is the first time that I don't really want to. I don't want people to ask me any questions or talk about how I am being induced etc...I know that I will go anyway. I want to take the sacrament and feel at peace. I won't be able to take the sacrament for probably 2 weeks or so after the baby is born. I don't know how long you are supposed to wait before you go back.

Baby boys: One last thought. I have been in love with little boys lately. Baby boys and toddler boys. They are so sweet. My friend Sarah Smith has a little boy named Josh who just had his 2 year birthday this Thursday. She and I decorated a truck cake for him. It resembled a truck well enough for him to recognize it so we considered it a success. He loves cars and trucks!! He is adorable and is at the stage of the vocabulary spurt and just barely putting 2 words together. I have heard him say a 4 word sentence...but I digress. I can't keep my eyes off of him. I can't believe that I was so upset in the beginning to have a boy. Now I can't wait. He is so sweet and kind. Then, there are all of Jonathan's friends from the business program. There are about 4-5 couples that are starting the program who are LDS and we have been associating with despite Jonathan's deferment to start his MBA next year. They all have baby boys. It is funny that everyone has boys. Today, however, I couldn't keep my eyes off of them. They were all so sweet.
So, despite all the past worries and concerns of not being able to raise a little boy...or missing out on cute dresses and everything I am comfortable with (coming from a family with 5 sisters) I am getting really excited to use all the blue that is hanging in the closet and hold my sweet son. I can't wait for him to come.

I feel so blessed that everything has gone so well during my pregnancy and that he is healthy. I don't know if he is going to be happy with the upcoming forceful entry into the world and sudden change of environment but hopefully he will like his mommy from the outside as much as he did while inside.

PS I am sure we will decide on a name eventually...we still have time...right? :)

Still Waiting...

2008-08-27T05:36:00.002-04:00

Yes, we are still waiting around for him to come. I have been to the hospital to receive non-stress tests to make sure he is okay. He is doing great. He has all the amniotic fluid he needs and is moving around. As far as he is concerned...life is grand. I go back to do the same tests on Thursday and then...inevitably will most likely start being induced on Sunday night...

Life for me on the other hand is filled with a little bit of worry and anxiety...are those the same thing? However, despite these feelings I am really enjoying myself. Grandma and Grandpa Unsicker came from Utah to help with the baby. Grandma and I have been planning this since Alicia first announced she was pregnant over a year and a half ago.

Well, since there is no baby to take care of we have been making food, cleaning my house, and playing a lot. Grandma and I have beat Jonathan and Grandpa at Pinochle 8 out of 9 times!! Needless to say, the boys don't want to play us anymore.

Example of my hormone levels going crazy...

I got another really great hand and Grandma was able to compliment my "meld" with a run. So following a "Cheeks cheats" from Gramps Jonathan says, "Abby, I am not talking to you for the rest of the night." I completely broke down. I was bawling and it was really not a big deal under normal circumstances. So I cried through about 3 tricks and then when the boys gave up, I started to cry again... It was quite hilarious.

Monday, I was a week overdue and this is what happened...(Note: I was also canning peaches and making peach/blackberry jam throughout all of these events. It was a very long and busy day.)

Background: I don't like talking on the phone or dealing with strangers. It is really hard for me.

Jonathan and I needed to sell one of our couches on Craigslist because it wouldn't fit in our apartment and Emily, who had the couh for almost two years, was moving from Ann Arbor. I took the initiative to put it on Craigslist to get things going. Then, I was the one "put in charge" of organizing the mass amounts of response emails and scheduling. Normally, this wouldn't have been that difficult if the couch was at my house. But I had to schedule around Emily's tenant who I didn't know, could'nt contact, and didn't speak English!! Thankfully, I had some loyal requesters who waited since last Thursday to finally see the couch on Monday.

After Jonathan and I came back from the hospital we went to Emily's apartment to show the couch. Yes, we finally got in by asking a maintenance man. The people wanted it!!! It wouldn't fit in their car so Em offered the use of Mom's Durango. Jonathan helped load it, drive it over to their apartment and attempt to get it into the elevator. It didn't fit. I was waiting in the car and when I saw Jonathan next it looked like someone struck his face with a 2x4. It was all red/bloody and swollen on his right side. The guy he was helping had a hard time controlling the couch and whacked it into Jonathan's face. So, not only did it not fit in the elevator or fit in the stairwell up to the 7th floor...my husband looked like he got into a fight. After a moment of concern my first thought was..."good thing the baby is content I want Jonathan's face to heal before he is born or else I am only going to be able to take profile pictures of him holding the baby!!" It is healing well...

Back to the couch. Jonathan had to go to his golf lesson. (Yes, he is taking golf lessons so that he can learn and be a good shmoozer in the business world...consider it "professional development"). So, we left the couch in a random apartment lobby without the cushions with a sign that said, "Moving, please don't touch." The couple ended up not wanting the couch. Which I think was really rude after we donated our time and gas to move it to their place. They should have taken responsibility for it. It wasn't my fault he didn't measure things beforehand. So, Jonathan was really frustrated and in a bad mood which had a huge effect on me because he is never like that. I wasn't mad that he was upset...I just didn't really know how to deal with it. It had an effect on me and my mood as well. So, I needed to try again to get someone to buy my couch that day and meet me at a random apartment lobby...

We found someone who wanted to come look at it and was willing to pay close to the asking price. Now, I had to contact the couple who didn't want the couch in the first place to get the cushions before I could show it. Grandma, Grandpa, and I (with a deck of 5 crowns) went over in the evening to go get everything organized with the cushions and wait for the prospective buyers. We were supposed to meet the couple at 6:30 but they never came or called to tell us that they were running late. So, starving by this point, Grandpa and I left Grandma and went to go get Chinese take out. When we came back nothing had happened. So we sat around the bolted down coffee table on the floor and ate our Chinese in a random apartment lobby because the bolted down couch wouldn't move closer!! What a sight we were!! Finally over an hour later the couple returned and eventually the prospective buyer came to look at the couch...she was over an hour late as well!! It turned out that we had a couch buying triangle. The couple had gone to get our prospective couch buyers couch after they couldn't have ours and the prospective couple ended up buying ours. She wanted it for $20 less. Which, by this point, I was happy to do. Then when she went to get the cash she didn't have enough. She was $4 dollars short. She offered to go to an ATM, probably expecting us to say, "no, it's only 4 dollars" when Grandma said, " Okay, we will follow you." So we followed this girl in a truck half way across the city to get 4 dollars because of the "principle of the thing." "People are always trying to nickel and dime you"-according to Grandma. Well, after being offered a ten dollar bill at the ATM I mentioned that I hadn't received the rest of the money and the prospective buyer swore she gave it to me. She had to look into her purse and realize that she hadn't!! I couldn't believe it. Then, not wanting to offend her, I didn't count the money in front of her. When I got to the car I realized that she had given me $136 instead of the $130. I felt really bad and wanted to call her but by this point in the evening I didn't have the ambition to deal with people anymore.

It was a blessing to sell our couch, the situation was horrible, but the memory of playing 5 crown and eating chinese food on the floor of some random lobby and playing cards with G and G was well worth it in the end I guess. I can deal with Jonathan's face I am sure it will heal before the baby decides to come and see us.

Grandma and Grandpa are leaving to go see my mom tomorrow. I will be home alone. I don't think the time will pass as easily now. Everyone can feel free to call me. I am not frustrated so don't feel bad calling. I would love to chat!!

The waiting game...

2008-08-18T21:40:00.002-04:00

Well, our little guy decided not to come early or right on time! Seems like he has his own agenda! Today was the estimated due date. Eliza put it in perspective by saying, "whether you had him today or not you are going to be a mom very soon." I have tried to not get very anxious about my "due date" because so many people do, however, I realized it still affected me a little bit. So, I am glad that she reminded me that all this means is that he is coming and coming soon.

I started actually feeling discomfort during contractions today so at least some pre-labor stuff has started. We will keep you all updated!!

SWIMMING!!!!

2008-08-13T23:28:00.003-04:00

Okay, I have been craving a swimming pool since the beginning of the summer. Unfortunately, there aren't many places to go in downtown Detroit. So, I have taken advantage of the pool at our apartment complex. This week I stopped swimming, just in case my water breaks or something else embarrassing happens. But last week I was living the high life in my hot red maternity bathing suit!! I know, I know, who knew someone could look so good at 38 weeks pregnant!! :o)

Baby Showers!

2008-08-13T23:04:00.003-04:00

I had two group baby showers. The ladies from my branch (small church congregation) in Detroit threw me a shower. My really good friend Lorna hosted it and she did a great job. There were lots of fun games, decorations, and delicious food. Then, a couple weeks later ladies from church and good friends threw me a shower in Saginaw. It was also a lot of fun and I am so grateful for all of the love and support that Jonathan and I have received as we have planned for our little guy. He has enough clothes for two kids, books, games, and baby gear that will keep me sane I am sure. Here are some pics from the parties!

Detroit Baby Shower

Baby Shower- Saginaw
The hostesses made homemade blueberry muffins with freshly picked blueberries! They were awesome! Also, my really good friend from high school, Krystin, was in town and came. It was so great to have her there. She just had a baby boy last fall so hopefully they will be good friends.

Thanks again to everyone for your love and support!!

FIlling up the time?

2008-08-07T10:30:00.002-04:00

I haven't had this much time on my hands ever...I can't remember a time when I wasn't chaotically busy or didn't have anything to do for longer than a day. Now, I am searching for things to do to fill up my day. Jonathan has been in an accounting waiver class all week from 8-4. I have found at least 1 thing to do, not including swimming everyday, until today. Cleaning, visiting with friends, having the RS presidency visit, seeing my midwife. Today there isn't anything planned...and so the search begins. I am going to go see if I can get a library card and try and apply to ASHA. The American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association.

I know I should enjoy this time before the baby comes, however, I would rather he just come so I can be busy. I am used to being busy and being overwhelmed with things to do.

We are finally here!

2008-08-07T10:16:00.002-04:00

Well, it is Wednesday night (7/30/08) and we are finally settled into our new apartment in Ann Arbor. We packed the truck on Saturday morning around 10:30 and then by 3:00 we were moved in. We had so much help from friends, missionaries, and other graduate students who are from our new ward (church congregation). It was very overwhelming seeing all of the boxes piled up but little by little we managed to unpack them. Emily was here the whole time which was a big help. Also, Pam, Jonathan's mom, came down on Monday to help out.

It feels so good to be settled and the apartment looks fabulous. Everything fits perfectly and there is still room to spare. We couldn't exactly say that about our last apartment. There are walkways on either side of our bed now with a big area towards one side. We also have a dishwasher, washer and dryer, and 2 walk-in closets. I don't know how we ever functioned with our little closets before. I think it was 2X3 feet... However, I must say that our old apartment was wonderful. It had so much character and we loved living in the building. We will miss it along with all the wonderful friends we left behind. At least we are only 45 minutes away.

I will post pictures when we find the cord that I need to upload them. Then, you can see the apartment and the NURSERY! Yes, we finally have set it up! It has been torture storing things in boxes and never being able to set up the crib. I am still waiting on the glider that my mom got for me but it is going to be an awesome room. I think his room is bigger than the bedroom Jonathan and I had for the past 2 years! Lucky kid.

Only in Detroit

2008-07-03T12:50:00.002-04:00

Well, earlier this summer on our way to church we spotted a boat in the middle of a road. Mind you. I used to drive down this road to go pick up a lady for church. It was a real road. I think they began to close it off or something and within weeks the owners of this boat decided that it must have been a good place to park it despite the 'do not enter' sign. Why not? It is a nice addition to the many burnt down and aging houses.

gDiapers

2008-07-01T09:37:00.002-04:00

Where do I start? A couple months ago, after everyone had disregarded my desire to try cloth diapers, Emily mentioned gDiapers to me. She had seen a post on them from a blog that she recently visits...although she has no connection with the creator. So I went and checked out gDiaper's official site and thought it was a great idea!

You may be asking yourselves, "When did Abby become 'green'"? Well, I don't consider myself 'green' I am just infatuated with this idea of not sending a ton of diapers to sit in a landfill for 500 years. I have also noticed a lot of other waste that I have in my life now and think that I am going to try and be a little more eco-conscious. So back to my gDiapers... They are compostable, flushable, and you could even toss them if you wanted to. They also work very well with cloth inserts, which are not as bad as they used to be, and that makes them a little more cost effective. The flushables are a little more than buying Pampers or another expensive brand of disposables. However, if you buy in bulk when they are on sale and befriend a gmum who will send you $2 off coupons it isn't so bad. I am also considering doing a little bit of both. Maybe a mixture of cloth and flushables...

I have become a member of the gDiapers yahoo group. They are all very supportive and have awesome advice and tips. They also have a database where they get on and sell there used or unwanted new gDiapers for a lower price. The picture in this post is of my first gdiaper purchase. I bought 4 used small gDiaper covers to test it out and see if I like them. I figure it will be better to try it out and prove to Jonathan that I am not crazy!

I am really excited about these gDiapers. I am also excited about how cute the baby is going to be wearing only his little gpants!!

The belly...

2008-07-01T09:28:00.002-04:00

I know a lot of you aren't around and don't have the privilege of seeing me 8 months pregnant. Unfortunately, every time I do my hair and look cute we NEVER take a picture. So I only have hideous ones imported to the computer. Sunday, I looked awesome! I had on a dress that Eliza gave me and my hair was done cute. I just got some layers a week and a half ago and I feel so much better. The only one I can post is this one...ALL BELLY!! I will try and take some on a cool day when I actually do my hair (our apartment isn't air conditioned...).

A Glimpse of Things to Come

2008-06-28T19:50:00.009-04:00

Phil and Roxann came to celebrate Mary's graduation and hang out with us at my mom's house for a week and a half. Well, at least Roxy and the kids stayed that long. It was perfect. Jonathan and I had to come back to Detroit for three days to work but then we went back up. Jonathan is awesome with Charlotte and Jackson. He would always play with them and do fun things. One night he was playing ball with Jackson and the little guy was laughing so hard. By the time I got the video camera...or had the sense to grab it... the giggling died down but I think this is a great clip to imagine how Jonathan will interact with our son.

Jonathan also had an eventful outing with Charlotte. Grandma wanted some fresh strawberries for pie so Jonathan and Charlotte went on an outing together. They first got ice cream. Charlotte did want to hold it so Jonathan did. Then they got the box to pick the strawberries and went out to the field. Charlotte, not wanting to walk in the mud and get her shoes dirty, asked Jonathan to carry her. So Jonathan needed to balance Charlotte in one are and the box of strawberries and ice cream in the other. Then he would lean Charlotte over the strawberry bushes and have her pick one. I might add that this lasted about five minutes before he realized it wasn't very effective and she was getting tired of being tipped over. He brought her home and went back to finish the job himself. Now, I may not have captured this in the best way but we laughed for a long time when we heard the story. It was hilarious. What a great Uncle.

Here are some pictures of Jackson trying out our carseat. He was having a lot of fun. Laughing and squealing. I didn't get pictures of laughing. But I promise he was all grins!

He must miss his infant carrier.. Charlotte came to play with him and was rocking him back and forth...
Then Phillip decided to check the safety of the carseat...I think my neice and nephew are immune to shaken baby syndrome!! Thanks Phil and Jackson! Now I know that the straps will securely keep my baby in place!

Another funny story was when we went swimming with the kids in a wading pool out back. Yes, Roxy, Jonathan, the two babies, and I were all playing in the freezing cold wading pool. It was a lot of fun and very humorous to say the least. My mom took pictures...I don't know if we will ever get them or see them...

Well, that post took me about a week to finish. It has been saved in draft and I needed lots of help with the video and placing the pictures. Next time it will be faster hopefully!

Father's Day Vacation

2008-06-16T12:44:00.002-04:00

Since Abby's on her way to Nauvoo with her mom, I figured I'd take a moment to catch you up with what's happening in our lives these days. Abby is doing well and getting bigger. It's gotten to the point where I'm lifting her out of the car and pushing her up off the couch. Her due date is August 18th, and we've been excitedly preparing for everything. Abby was particularly focused on finding a stroller and crib for the baby, and we were able to find some great deals online for them. Now it's my job to find a camcorder and start packing everything for our move to Ann Arbor at the end of July.

We just returned from a small vacation with our families last week. I got to see my brother Matthew be set apart for his mission to Buenos Aires, Argentina. He left for the MTC on Friday, and it's strange to think that when he comes back in two years, Abby might look just the same as she does now.

We also got to see some of our favorite people this past week: Phil, Roxann, and their two adorable kids, Charlotte and Jackson. They are living in Minnesota right now, so it's a treat when we're able to spend time with them. We played in the backyard pool, picked strawberries, went out for ice cream, played Wii, and even went to see Kung Fu Panda at the movie theater. I can't believe Charlotte is almost already three years old, walking and talking with a mind of her own.

Yesterday, I was able to attend church in our new chapel for the first time. It's been under construction for the past two years, so Abby and I have been anxiously awaiting the day when we could finally have church there. No more climbing 5 flights of stairs and listening to toilets flush during sacrament meeting. Hurray!

I miss my girl. She will be in Nauvoo with her mom and sister until Thursday. I think that this is more of a therapeutic trip for Abby, rather than an exciting sightseeing trip. Being in Nauvoo, unlike other places, has a way of clearing Abby's mind and calming her nerves. She always has had an affinity for that place, and although I miss her, I know she's enjoying herself.

Graduation!

2008-05-04T18:08:00.003-04:00

Finally! I am officially done. Jonathan's dad, Jonathan, mom, dad, Emily, Eliza, and Christopher came to my graduation ceremony. We didn't wear caps and gowns but I walked across the stage. It was awesome having everyone come down and celebrate with me.

August Baby?!?!

2008-05-04T17:43:00.002-04:00

Well the doctor believes that I am farther along than I thought. He didn't change anything at first but Friday after he looked at the ultrasound and measured me he agreed that I was 25 weeks along. I know he will come when he is ready and I am not going to set my eye on August 18th, however, I will be able to better prepare myself and seek care at the right time. I am changing from a doctor to a midwife in Ann Arbor and need to know when the best time to start going out there to see her. It puts my mind at ease. Hopefully, we will be settled into our new apartment before he comes.

My first REAL job!

2008-05-04T17:19:00.003-04:00

Well this past Monday I started my first job. I am going to be working contract for three months full-time until the baby arrives. It seems like the perfect plan because I don't have to sign up for a certain amount of time with this company. I can work for three months. Take as much time off for the baby I want and then go back to them or find other employment. So far it has been great. I work in an elementary school and a preschool. I have two offices. One's actually in the picture (the second window from the left). The other is a whole classroom with lots of windows and my own fridge! I like having my own space and not having to report to a supervisor about every decision I make. I am in charge of 36+ kids. So far it has been easy since it is the end of the school year and there is hardly any paperwork so I just give therapy.
In that way it is great. I just give therapy and don't have a lot of extra stuff to do. However, even after a week of being there working on language and artic therapy I have realized that the medical setting/rehabilitation area is more for me. When I have the baby I am going to try and find a job that works with this population. As for now, making money and being with "littles" all day is fine. It is helping the time pass as I wait for "dino." (My father and families nickname for the baby)

Hockeytown

2008-04-19T18:01:00.001-04:00

What do octupi, ice, and fights all have in common? They all belong in Detroit Red Wing Playoff hockey. We went to see our first Red Wings game the other day, a 2-1 overtime win against the Nashville Predators. It was also our baby's first Red Wings game as well, as evidenced by the towel and Abby's cute belly. (Abby says he was going crazy with the loud music.) We had a lot of fun and hope that they win the Stanley Cup this year.

General Conference Sunday

2008-04-06T19:23:00.003-04:00

Since today was General Conference, Abby and I got to sleep in a little later than we normally do. It felt great, and we even had enough time to make french toast, something we haven't had for breakfast in a while. We traveled to Westland to hear conference, since Abby's not a big fan of watching it online. This conference was particularly memorable because it was the first time President Monson spoke to the church as a whole as the newly called Prophet. It was great to hear his inspiring words and listen to conference together with my wife.

This morning before church, we took some pictures of Abby. She is showing well and continues to get excited about everything that has to do with the baby. From cribs, to clothes, to names, to carseats, Abby's doing her research and wanting to make sure that everything's set for our new boy. I, on the other hand, take it in stride, focusing on things one step at a time. We're different, but I think that's part of why we enjoy being with each other so much.

University of Michigan

2008-03-16T00:43:00.003-04:00

It's official! Jonathan was accepted to the Ross school of Business and Health administration program at U of M. He will be starting his dual degree this Fall so we will be in Ann Arbor for the next three years. We are very excited that he has been blessed with such a great opportunity and that we will be close to both sets of grandparents!! Congratulations Jonathan!!

Family expansion

2008-03-11T00:41:00.000-04:00

Well, I think it is safe to announce that Jonathan and I will be having a baby at the end of the summer! We are very excited! I will post the first ultra sound picture. It looks like a peanut in the picture; however, when I was there it had little circles for arms and legs. It was really cute. When I saw it it all sunk in that this was real and that I really was pregnant. I wasn't just imagining all the sickness and whatnot. The second set will have to be another post because I think I need Jonathan's help to scan them and upload them into the computer.

The second set will have to be another post because I think I need Jonathan's help to scan them and upload them into the computer. They are much better than this one. The second ultra sound was for a genetic "first screen" where they determine early if the baby has Down Syndrome or another congenital defect. I agreed to go but I wouldn't do further testing if they found something wrong. They are some really cool pictures. We got some 3D pictures and the baby has everything! It opened and closed it's mouth, had shoulders, ears, eyes, fingers, toes and a little something that made the sonographer ask us if we wanted to know the gender. I didn't think she would tell us so I said, " why not" and she turned the screen around and showed us three different angles of the BIG possibility to have a little boy as our first baby. I of course took the news with a grain of salt considering the baby was only 15 weeks old and they can't be sure until 18-20 weeks or so. However, until they prove otherwise we are going to plan on having a baby boy. I think I need to follow Alicia's footsteps and find a blue background for my blog. I am going to try and document all that I can about the pregnancy. I need to take more pictures and talk about it. I haven't been a big talker. I just figure I still have 5-1/2 to 6 months left. (Actually, I don't really know...everytime I go to the doctor they tell me the baby is bigger than what I tell them. my EDD is Sept 4th but I think it will come sometime in August since I obviously miscalculated my LMP.) It makes me crazy not knowing exact details!

The school quest

2008-03-11T00:40:00.000-04:00

Well, I may need to be changing the name of my blog because we are in the final stages of hearing back from the graduate schools Jonathan applied to. He has been accepted so far to UNC and U of M's Master's of Health Administration programs. He has even received some scholarship offers which is very exciting! We are still waiting to here back from business schools and will hopefully have made a decision by the end of March. It has been exciting to see all of the opportunities that has led Jonathan down this path. I feel that he will be very successful at this career and will enjoy finally going back to school!