Family of Riches

Shands, baths and snow!

2010-02-14T21:12:00.009-06:00

Well…along with fielding questions about why I chose to display the actual pictures of Jack’s birth-we’ve been quite busy around here!

Par’s yearly check-up with Dr. Kays in Gainesville, Florida was Tuesday, February 2nd—we left on Monday around 5:30 AM. The boys did VERY well-we only stopped about 3 times—and it was pushing 9 hours on the way there-so that wasn’t too bad.

We were welcomed “home” by our friends at the Homewood Suites—nothing like a warm welcome! They always take such good care of us—it was nice to see them again. We stayed in our “same room”—just on a different floor—which means they gave us a really nice upgrade from what I originally booked—so again, thanks!

We ate at Panera—and we were able to eat outside! That may not mean much—but it has been SO COLD in Birmingham lately that we haven’t been able to get any fresh air—so although it was “misting”—we enjoyed out dinner outside!
Everyone slept really well (answered prayer—it was going to be a long day!) and we were up and rolling around 7am.

All of our appointments were at UF/Shands--our first appointment was a chest x-ray. You may remember this contraption below. It looks pretty torturous—and believe me, Par’s crying would convince you—but it actually doesn’t hurt at all. Thankfully, Par is old enough not to have to use it—our big boy was able to stay in the proper position for the xray with just a little help from Rusty. Yay Par!

Next up was Par’s echocardiogram. I really didn’t know how this would go—but as you can see from the photos—they knew just what to suggest to have it go smoothly. Rusty and Par were able to enjoy a cartoon while she looked at his heart. He did really well—he never sits that still for that long for me!

And finally, our appointment with Dr. Kays. While waiting we were entertained by 2 Broadway stars in the waiting room. They currently star in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang—They entertained the waiting room with various showtunes—pretty cool—although we would rather have been able to meet Tim Tebow, but I digress.

We didn’t have to wait too long—which was a pleasant surprise! First Dr. Dickie—a resident interested in CDH came in to ask us some questions while we waited for Dr. Kays. She was very nice—and the prospect of having someone studying with Dr. Kays really makes us happy—there is only one of him—he really needs another capable surgeon with as much dedication and patience—we hope Dr. Dickie is that person!

Because of Par’s recent “fits” when we’ve gone to the pediatrician/flu shot—I really didn’t know how he would respond to Dr. Kays—but he was great—and actually, never stopped talking the entire time. In fact, Dr. Dickie had to take him out of the room to give Dr. Kays a chance to talk to us without Par’s constant interruptions—seriously—every 5 seconds—“Hey Dr. Kays. I have trains. I have Thomas, and Percy, and Diesel, etc” You could tell that Dr. Kays was tickled by him—but it was quite distracting.

So, Dr. Kays went over the findings from the xray, echo and physical examination. His xray looks great—no sign of scoliosis, you can clearly see his right diaphragm and you can clearly see his man-made left diaphragm (ie-the gor-tex patch). Both seem to be doing their job very well. The echo was a positive report as well. But, because of all that Par’s lungs/heart have been through—there is still residual issues that Dr. Kays will continue to watch—one being that the one side of Par’s heart is enlarged—most likely because of it compensating for his smaller lung. It isn’t anything for us to be concerned about—the valve pressures are all what they are supposed to be—so we’ll just watch it as Par grows—and it should “even out” in the following years.

Speaking of Par growing—Dr. Kays was very please that Par is now on the growth chart—even surprised I might add. He told us to keep up the good work and after next year’s check-up—we may only have to come back every other year.

But the highlight of our visit was the present that Par gave Dr. Kays. Of course, it isn’t mandatory that we take a gift each time—but I just couldn’t resist this time!
First, Dr. Kays opened a card that read:
“What do Dr. Kays and the University of Alabama have in common?
They both kick butt at the University of Florida!”

Then he opened the gift—a UA surgical scrub cap—with one side embroidered “Dr. David Kays” and the other “Par’s Surgeon, CDH Survivor ‘07”

He said he’d wear it—at least once. Hopefully this time doesn't count.

We decided to hop on over to the NICU III & II to say a quick hey to some of Par’s nurses-and let them meet Jack! We saw a few—we were able to get a picture with Karis and Elayne –Karis was part of the home stretch in getting Par home the last few days—and Elayne—I just can’t say enough about her! She is the Occupational Therapist who helped me to be successful in breastfeeding Par—I was so proud to show her how fat little Jack is from breastfeeding and of course, for Par to be able to say “hello” all by himself. It was a treat. Conveniently enough, were able to see some friends who live in Gainesville—they were actually at Shands during our visit-they were waiting on a friend having a LONG back surgery. It was nice to give them a hug and catch up—or catch up as much as you can in a hospital waiting area for 5 minutes. But it was nice to see them—and we hope to continue the tradition of saying “hello” with each visit to Gainesville!

On the way out of town we stopped by St. Augustine—our church while we were living in Gainesville—we like to light a candle and say a prayer as a family—we tried to explain to Par about praying for him in this church—I look forward to the day he actually understands.

And then…at 3pm….we hit the road. And would you believe it—we were home by 9pm and with only 1 stop. Amen.

Little did I realize how much traveling can mess up our loose schedule—it took us about 5 days to recover. Yikes….not looking forward to that again any time soon!

So…little Jack is not neglected by any means…but because he spits up all the time—giving him a bath really isn’t just a fun little treat so he smells like a fresh little baby—it is an essential element to each day so he doesn’t smell like vomit. Well…with a two year old running around---let’s just say the days get away and Rusty and I seem to be used to the smell. But…just to prove to you we are bathing this little monkey—here are some pictures. Have I mentioned how many times I change his clothes each day? I change his pajamas at least 2 times each night—all because of his spitting up! Yuck.

Jack is changing so much. He is cooing and looking around all the time—and he is trying to roll over. He rolls over on his side and scoots around with his little legs…and probably because there is a screaming two year old around all the time—he’s probably just trying to figure out how to get away. I don’t blame him.

We FINALLY had a real snow here in Birmingham this past weekend. Our weather men have been wrong a few times already this winter—so it was a nice surprise to actually have snow! This is Jack’s first and Par’s third—we had lots of fun watching it—and until Rusty came home, Par was happy to just walk around in the back yard while it fell! He would come inside complaining of wet socks—so I would change them and send him on out again. And then he’d come back again talking about his socks. He finally decided that the best way to fix the problem is to not have socks on to get wet—and off he went into the yard barefoot. Don’t worry---he came back in shortly to warm up—sometimes you just have to let them figure it out. And as you can see from the picture below…he was still figuring it out when Rusty got home.

Rusty and Par attempted to make a snowman at my request—so cliché—but I just had to have pictures of them working together—you know, father and son working hard. Well, they decided to just bury Jack in the snow—way more fun. So, if you ever wondered what you get when you mix Jack Frost and a Snowman….a Jack Man!

And since today is Valentine’s Day….a special tribute to my love—Rusty. He his my best friend—thank you for making me such a delicious Valentine Dinner!

We delivered a few Valentine Cards to some potential girlfriends in the neighborhood—check out our classy card below!

our little family...

2010-01-14T20:12:00.006-06:00

WARNING: Very graphic birth pictures are included in slideshow about Jack's birth
So I've been putting off the update because it seems SO overwhelming--there is SO much to say--because let's face it, my last true update was Par's birthday...since then we've had: Thanksgiving, a baby, Christmas, New Year's, and Jack's baptism.
Ok...we'll start with right after Par's birthday--I was certain I would give birth in the next few weeks--actually, I was certain it would be November 16th....which came and went with me still pregnant.
Par continued to enjoy being an only child.
Thanksgiving was nice--and low key--we had Thanksgiving lunch with Gigi and dinner with Boo & Sir. And what is Thanksgiving dinner without a bouncy house!?! This was actually a pretty good idea--they were entertained and so were we--because let's face it, Thanksgiving day can drag on for little kids...Par wasn't too rough, but I was reassured that exactly what Par needs is a baby brother...soon enough, right!?!
Typically, I like to get our tree the weekend after Thanksgiving when everyone else is out shopping (because I'm usually already through and this year was no exception!)--but I also had this fantasy that our new "family of four" would trek out to the Christmas Tree Farm and watch as my strong husband cuts down our tree (like last year)....so I decided to wait for our little one to arrive---it would be any day at this point, right?

As Rusty went in and out of town for business I kept a vigil over my womb praying for Jack to come out (when Rusty was home) and praying for him to stay in (when Rusty was gone)--I was having pretty intense contractions for hours (4-5) at a time--and then they would stop--frustrating, huh?
So as time went on...my prayer for a natural VBAC (my prayer for the past 2 years) seemed to move out of reach as December 16th grew closer. On December 15th at my doctor's appointment, my doctor called the game and said I would need to have a c-section by December 18th (Friday) if I didn't go into labor. Well, at this point I was 42+ weeks--2+ weeks overdue--and although low, there are risks with a VBAC and being overdue brought about some other potential issues--as I thought about things--and as this became a very difficult decision--I weighed my desires very heavily--my desire to have more children clearly was more important than a VBAC--and although there is always a risk with any pregnancy--I couldn't help but be consumed that something may go wrong and render me unable to have more children. Something just didn't feel right about waiting until Friday--I couldn't rationalize waiting just 2 more days--I can't explain it now--and as I write this it doesn't make much sense anymore--but at the time my feeling was very strong and literally made me panicky to even consider waiting. So my c-section was scheduled for Wednesday, December 16th--the original day my doctor had said he'd allow me to go to.

Ironically, it had many similarities to my first birth--although they told me it would be completely different and relaxing this time around--I'm not faulting anyone--just saying--it wasn't much different, except the atmosphere was "happier"--like my first--it took 3 times and 2 people to place my epidural, I had blood pressure issue that caused a little commotion and although initially the birth of Jack was joyful--he was taken from me and sent to the NICU. That was harder than when they took Par. With Par, I knew what was going to happen, I had prepared myself. With Jack, I had prepared myself for the perfect birth that I never got with Par--but I guess God isn't done with my character building--because I was knocked on my knees and so upset--even tried to talk them out of taking him. My heart still races as I think about those moments and handing him to the nurses.
But my little chunk (9 pounds 5 ounces!!! can you believe it!?! I still can't!) healed quickly--and by Sunday--we hit the road home! Although we'll never know, had I waited it out until Friday and still needed a c-section, things could have been very different...like we may not have been home for Christmas.

But we were home for Christmas!!! Actually, with a few days to spare! How's our adjustment been? Well, let's say that it is impossible to really adjust in the throws of the holidays and a new baby--but we did pretty well! Our first major outing other than doctor appointments was my brother's birthday--and who was there? SANTA!!!! Par told Santa about a zillion times that he wanted a "Ride on Thomas the Choo-Choo train"--we got a family picture with Santa--but Jack wasn't able to tell Santa what he wanted because he was trapped in my sling the entire time.

Christmas eve lunch with Gigi was delicious--and Par loved all the wonderful and fun presents! Jack slept through much of the excitement! We enjoyed Christmas Eve dinner with Boo & Sir--but no bouncy house...instead, the kids opened a few presents--anything to run out some of that energy so that they would sleep soundly....and it worked. As Rusty and I walked into Midnight Mass--our precious boys still dressed in their precious handmade lace outfits (by Boo, of course--and I did a little) went right to sleep--and slept the next 2 hours...
We went to sleep by 3:30ish...and the boys woke up around 8am--and boy was Christmas morning fun! Santa brought one gift for each of them--Jack a sterling rattle (same first Christmas gift for Par) and Par a........Ride on Thomas the choo-choo train! He LOVES it! Although we had a little issue at first, once fixed, Par rode the train like a champion! The grandparents stopped by for a look!

Rusty's dad and Minnie had previously come when I had Jack--but they arrived in Birmingham after he had been taken to the NICU--because the NICU only allows parents in, they left before meeting him. So they came back on New Year's eve for the official meeting! We had a wonderful dinner, exchanged presents, watched Par ride on Thomas, watched Jack sleep and poop--and did this for a few days before they headed back to Asheboro. It was a great visit--I only wish Jack was a little more exciting--but it was totally worth it for Par--he loves his Big D!
Jack's baptism was January 3rd--a miracle in itself that we were able to plan, invite and celebrate in such a short amount of time (a very special thanks to Boo and Fr. Bazzel for making it happen!) It was between Masses--with just family and friends--and Jack (who rarely cries) cried the entire time! And Par? He ran around the entire time chattering! But it was music to my ears--my two boys very alive and very well--praise God for his goodness. As I stood there holding my little Jack as he recieved this beautiful gift from God--and watched Par run, smiling, laughing, talking--so comfortable in "big Jesus' house" as he calls it--my birth plan seemed so insignificant. My hospital stay seemed like a blink. My c-section pained seemed like a pinch. The bigger picture was much clearer--and as I mother my boys amidst spit up, diapers and 2 year old tantrums...I remind myself to think back on that day.

Finally, Jack had his 2 week checkup and Par had his 2 year checkup (2 months late!) The boys are doing great!!!! Our 2 week old baby born weighing 9 lbs 5 oz--lost 1 pound his first 5 days....but at his 2 week checkup weighs.......10 lbs 5 ozs!!!!!! Can you believe it?
And our little monkey Par...well...he cried the entire time we were there...thanking everyone (dr. and nurses) and telling them goodbye between his shrills! Thankfully a sucker and a sticker calmed him as we left....but, we did get the great news that Par is now in the 10%!!!!!! That is officially on the growth chart!
Enjoy our pictures....

Mama got a shower...

2009-12-24T09:46:00.001-06:00

And Par and Jack had pretty good seats for the event...Merry Christmas
Eve!

enjoying home sweet home...

2009-12-22T14:57:00.002-06:00

We've all been home since Sunday around noon...and of course, getting settled in has had some challenges (ahem, Par) and so we've been moving a little slower around here and it baffles me that Christmas is in 3 days...seriously? wow.
Par loves his little brother...he sometimes loves him a little too hard but I'm sure Jack will be tougher for it! I will upload pictures later tonight.

"I'll be home for Christmas..."

2009-12-19T22:09:00.000-06:00

Actually, we will be home tomorrow! Thank you for your prayers!!!! As
for now, we are just hanging out in our hospital room...

All the cool kids...

2009-12-18T23:07:00.002-06:00

Sleep in these clear boxes on wheels!

Jack graduated this evening to a bassinet! This is huge--as you may remember, Par did not graduate out of his NICU bed until he was a month old--so this is really fast in our book! Jack is still in the NICU and he is still being monitored--but he is no longer on an IV--he is taking everything by mouth. He is nursing like a champ--this kid loves LOVES loves to eat! So what are we waiting on? Well, they want to make sure his breathing issues (pneumothorax/wet lungs/resp. rate) are under control, that he is eating efficiently (uh...check!) and that the cultures they took Wednesday don't grow anything (we won't learn about those until late tomorrow night at the earliest). He is a very sweet little boy--I can't wait to take him home. We used to joke about putting Par in my bag and walking out of the NICU with him--that would be an option if this kid wasn't so big! (seriously, he is as big as Par was at 5 months!)

Who? Me? Causing trouble?

2009-12-18T16:48:00.002-06:00

I learned it from my big brother!
Just hanging out here in the NICU...

Precious Jack...

2009-12-16T18:57:00.002-06:00

Well, we could call this round 2...but thankfully it is nothing as devastating as what Par went through...just emotionally devastating for me...you see...this time was supposed to be WAY different...problem free pregnancy, easy delivery and bouncing home with my baby boy in a matter of hours...well, those were my plans.
As you may know, I had a c-section with Par--but I really wanted to have a VBAC with Jack--which is why I went 2 weeks over my due date--in hopes of going into labor on my own and avoiding another c-section. Yesterday we learned we were out of time--Jack needed to come on out whether he wanted to or not! So we scheduled a c-section for noon today.
This little monkey SCREAMED coming out--a beautiful noise that we missed out on with Par! And low and behold--he is GIANORMOUS--9lbs 5oz, 22 inches long, a decent amount of hair, huge feet and chunky little thighs. Needless to say, Par and Jack may be the same size in about a month!
After we got back to the room he nursed and seemed perfect. When they took vitals again, they noticed rapid breathing and a low body temp. So we warmed him up (skin-to-skin) and kept an eye on his breathing. OH! This little baby is so precious--and looks like Rusty (according to Gigi) but really looks like Par (according to Boo)--according to me--he is a GIANORMOUS BABY! Anyway, his breathing didn't get better--so long story short--they took him away to the NICU. He has a pneumothorax--which is essentially an air pocket where air leaked outside the lung into the chest cavity. The xray shows that it is very minor and should resolve itself in the next few days. In the mean time, he is on room air (praise God!) and really missing his mama and daddy. The not so important bummer is that I am once again chained to the breastpump--but hopefully he can start nursing again tomorrow or the next day...he will probably remain in the NICU until Sunday...so prayers for patience for me would be great! I will put some more pictures up soon...promise!

Jack is here!

2009-12-16T15:12:00.001-06:00

Jack arrived at 12:24pm.... All 9 pounds 5 ounces of him! We will
update with pictures later!

A post to settle you down...

2009-12-13T23:06:00.002-06:00

I had planned on not posting until Jack was here. I had planned on delivering Jack weeks ago. I had a lot of plans--but they aren't exactly working out as we thought right now.
So I thought I would let you know that I am currently STILL PREGNANT--I have not had a baby. I am physically feeling fine, but very pregnant. I am ready to get the show on the road. And no, I haven't forgotten to call you and share my baby news...so calm down!
As excited as I am to meet Jack, I am also excited to wait for him to decide to come on his own (as we did with Par)--so as hard as it is--we are joyfully anticipating his arrival regardless of our own plans--this has been a nice parallel to our Advent season.
So--sit tight my friends--baby Jack will be here soon and we can't wait to share the news!

Happy 2nd Birthday Par!

2009-10-31T23:27:00.010-05:00

Has it really been 2 years already!?!
As I type this--ripe with child--I wonder, where has the time gone? It seems like just yesterday Rusty and I were anxiously awaiting Par's arrival. I was terrified I would give birth on Halloween--I really didn't want a Halloween baby--but Rusty was confident it would be November 1st, All Saints Day. I went into labor that night--and delivered by c-section just after noon on November 1st--and Rusty was right.
You can look back here and take a look back at Par's 1st birthday...but now I want to tell you a little bit about my 2 year old baby...or, I guess my 2 year old child...
Par loves to request things--Peanut Butter and Jelly, Mama? Grilled Cheese, Mama? Ten Cookies, Mama? He always says "Thank you" and randomly will apologize "I sorry, Daddy" for no reason. He loves being naked and takes his clothes off all the time--he also loves to potty around the house once naked--and he isn't afraid to do #1 or #2. He is sleeping in a big boy bed and loves his routine at night. He turns off the lights on the way to his room and then we bless him and he blesses us. Then we say the "Our Father" and then he starts to "God Bless" family and friends. Rusty slips out and we start singing--he loves me to sing Angel of God, Twinkle, Edelweiss, Farmer in the Dell, Jesus Loves Me, and a song I made up that says "It is time to go to sleep my friend, Goodnight Par"....He calls the songs the following: Angel Ga, Twinkee Star, Edelvist, Farmer Dell, Jesus Love and Friends...although, it is cuter when he says them in person.
He still loves his bath time--and he is very much a morning person! He is up at the crack of dawn ready to watch a little toddler TV and eat breakfast--we are still asleep--so he does it solo. He takes one hardy nap in the afternoon--usually after some good playing at the park, library or in our front yard. He seems to understand that we are having a baby and that "Jack" is in my tummy---but if you ask him his own name he will respond quickly with "Names Jack" and we will have to say, "NO...your name" and he will say "Names Par"...but it does sound a little like Paul when he says it. Par has had all of his teeth for a while now, and for the past few weeks his 2 year molars have been coming in which has left a permanent stream of drool running down his mouth.
Par's favorite thing right now.....TRAINS! He loves any sort of transportation--especially fire trucks (he thinks the Coca-cola delivery truck is a fire truck)--he is obsessed with trains and lining them up. He loves to jump and hop--he jumps off most anything (steps, chairs, sofas, etc.) and hops most of the time I'm trying to walk somewhere while holding his hand. He attempts to answer the phone when it rings,still uses pretty advanced bargaining techniques, he is very willing to converse and use big boys words, although sometimes his responses to our questions make little sense, he has started rolling his eyes, he finally understands time out and that it isn't really a good thing--but still happily sits in the chair and waits for the time out clock to go off. He remembers ALL of his little friends' names--which is pretty amazing to me--and he will sporadically start talking about them. He associates places we frequent with people we see there--for example, the icecream store: Uncle Joe; Zoe's Restaurant: Boo; Tot Lot: Isabelle; St. Paul's: Brendan & Brice....When he hears a plane, firetruck or a train he will stop what he is doing look at me and say in a sing songy voice, "I hear a choo choo train!" (or plane, firetruck, etc.) He counts to 20...but will not say the number FOUR--no matter what we do--he refuses to say 1, 2, 3, 4....grrrr....so I guess really, he can only count to 3.

He had a Willy Wonka themed birthday party on Halloween(as you can see from the pictures) and he loved being an Oompah Loompah and sort of could sing the song. We had some friends and family come to celebrate with us--Par seemed to love being the center of attention! Especially from his super duper grandparents--all of which dressed up for him! (yes, we know...that means true love!)
But...as you may know...I really feel celebrating on your actual birthday is really important...so after Rusty and Big D returned from Talladega, we celebrated again on his real birthday with just us and the grandparents! He loved all of his presents...but his favorite--his train set!

I'm including the same slideshow above also below so we can look back on it...

FoR Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T22:08:00.001-05:00

I know there are MANY of you anxious to see what the FoR decided on for Halloween '09--as you know, we do a family theme each year...
2006: Runaway bride from Georgia (Liz) and Sheriff escort (Rusty)
2007: parents in labor (okay...so we missed this year!)
2008: Dr. Evil (Rusty), Austin Powers (Liz) & Mini Me (Par)
...and 2009

Willy Wonka (Rusty), Violet (Liz) & Oompa Loompa (Par)
Enjoy this picture...many more to come...we actually celebrated Par's 2nd Birthday tonight--so lots of FUNNY pictures this Halloween! I'll update tomorrow sometime with more and a longer/better post in honor of Par's Real Birthday!

Happy Birthday Best Husband EVER!

2009-10-24T21:27:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to my precious husband, Rusty. I wonderful father, son, friend, husband, uncle, etc....you get the point...My prayer is that my sons may grow to be just as extraordinary. I praise God for being able to love you forever. I love you.

Happy Anniversary to Family of Riches!

2009-10-15T00:00:00.003-05:00

Yep...our family began four years ago today when Rusty and I married each other! So much has happened in such a short time--and boy has it been an adventure! Starting with our honeymoon that Hurricane Wilma decided to crash (literally) we spent 4 days fleeing home--quite a start to a marriage, huh! Little did we know that the Lord was just prepping our skills for dealing with each other in the midst of traumatic events! Just after our 1st year of marriage, we found out we were expecting our first son Par and we decided to move to a new house in a precious little neighborhood with lots of kids--and just as we signed the contract, we found out about his devastating diagnosis of CDH. Again, an exciting event (being pregnant) turned traumatic as we scrambled to find the best chance for our baby--which inevitably took us to Gainesville, Florida. So, our 2nd anniversary was spent apart--Rusty in Birmingham and me in Gainesville (with my mom, Rusty came a week later) awaiting the arrival of our son. After three months in Gainesville (but only 2 months after Par's birth) we headed home. Just as we were getting settled back into Birmingham, I checked into the hospital for a week with a kidney infection--and took our little baby with me! Thankfully the next six months remained free from any sort of life changing events--and soon after Rusty and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary, and a few weeks later, Par turned one. Actually, that was pretty traumatic--our little boy was growing up so fast! No worries, just a few months later Rusty and I found out we were again expecting a baby! Thankfully, this new little boy seems completely healthy! So here we are...our 4th Anniversary...Par is about to turn 2...I'm about to give birth to our second son...I couldn't have planned it better myself! Praise God for His blessings on our family--praise God for the covenant of marriage--praise God for the blessings of children. And finally, praise God for the support we have recieved from our family and friends for the past 4 years.
Precious Rusty,I love you so much and I thank you for loving me.

Our precious little Par...

2009-10-11T10:47:00.003-05:00

As we were walking from the sanctuary to the Cathedral Life Center after mass today, we passed a mini-van full of nuns leaving. The sister driving had her window down and waved to Par saying, "Hello!"... So what did Par say in reply?
Well, he surveyed the minivan and without hesitation replied "Hey girls!"
I love having a boy...and I'm sure it will be twice as nice at the end of November...

The Letter of the Week is "J"

2009-10-08T08:08:00.000-05:00

Par talks all the time! He definitely says things that we are not able to understand--but for the most part, he has pretty large vocabulary that we can understand. I'm not sure if it has anything to do with our grueling homeschooling regimen...but he is able to say a lot and frequently speaks in sentences (as you read earlier about his bargaining tactics). Anyway, I thought I would share the words he uses regularly right now that start with "J":
juice
jump
jingle bells
just (as in, "just one or ten cookies, mama")
Uncle Joe
Jesus
jammies
oh...and I guess you might want to know that he is able to say his little brother's name (due in late November) too...
Jack!
We have decided to name him John Robert Rich and to call him "Jack"--Rusty and I have been talking about it for a while now and we mentioned the nickname Jack once. Well, little ears picked up on this and began to call the baby Jack. It was really sort of weird--I thought maybe Rusty had been saying the name to him--because I sure had not. I frequently will point to my belly and say "Who is this?"....and the response was usually "Baby"---and then I would say "Baby who?" to urge him to say "Baby brother" but somehow he started saying "Baby Jack." I was just certain that his Gigi or Boo would say "Are you going to have a baby brother" and he was going to say "Baby Jack"--but he never did--or they just never mentioned it. I really like having a name to call this precious little boy! That was something that was really important while carrying Par and I am glad I get to do it this time around. So...baby Jack is still baking--but we can't wait to meet him!

Yay for the Fall!!!!

2009-10-03T16:02:00.016-05:00

Although I have enjoyed sewing since before I was making clothes for Par, I do recognize that it is part of the nesting process of pregnancy--and it can be quite exhausting. I am unable to stop for fear that I won't have any time to make anything once the baby is here--especially since this precious little guy is making his debut in the throws of the holiday season! And if you know me really well (or have read my blog for any length of time) you know that I usually have a good bit of my Christmas shopping done by now...and while I have put a good dent in it--I'm not even close to being finished and I'm getting a little nervous...

We've been pretty busy around here...Par's potty training comes and goes--he will potty on command to earn his M&M...and his most recent bargaining tactit is to ask me for "just 2 m&m's" and when I say no he then asks for "one?" and then I say no again and he asks for "just three or five?" No! "Three or five mama!!!!" No! Okay...you can't have 3 or 5, but you can have 2!" Seriously? I thought you couldn't sell a salesman? He totally got what he wanted and I felt guilty for not giving him 5! He may look like Rusty--but he definitely has my thought process! (I'm secretly very proud yet scared of what will happen when he is much older!)

I have been very emotional lately. It has been so bad that I'm not sure what would happen if a Christmas Folgers' commercial came on TV--I might just loose it completely! I guess I've just been really sensitive--to everything and everyone--but I do realize the "craziness" of it so I have tried to resist telling people when they have hurt my feelings.

One such occasion happened at Par's Storytime. We always go on Wednesday at 10:30--but this past Wednesday I had a luncheon at 11am and I had to make a concession so I signed us up for the 9:30 class. An entire new set of moms and toddlers--but not a big deal--until nametag time. Par's favorite part of Storytime is running up to get his nametag from Moe Moe the monkey. We all sing a song to each child with their name as they retrieve their nametag--"Where is Par? Where is Par?" is the first line--Par promptly popped up out of my lap excited about his turn...and then the second line "There she is! There she is!"....I was in shock...the song continues..."We're so glad you're here! We're so glad you're here! We see you, Peek-a-boo!" I was so upset! He looked pretty darn cute--but he clearly is a boy! He had on a boy outfit (pants and shirt)--he wasn't even wearing a baby bubble--he was dressed as a toddler boy! And my goodness--he was totally acting like a boy! I wanted to cry! (I realize this is ridiculous to get so worked up about--but I tell you, I am emotional these days). Thankfully Rusty has solved the problem. He told Par that the next time someone calls him a girl he has permission to pull down his pants to prove otherwise. I'll let you know if it happens, don't worry.

With such a traumatic event at the library--I didn't notice that I left my day planner when we ran out after Storytime. Now, I am not the type to live by my day planner as some people are--but I do always have it with me and I do write down doctor appointments, work, parties, etc--you know, the normal stuff. I also sometimes keep loose things in there--like coupons that I know I'm about to use--and most recently I had stuck a piece of mail in the back pages. I didn't know I had left it until Saturday night (three days later) when I went to retrieve the piece of mail I had stuck in the book. To my surprise (shock) my day planner was missing--but what was most upsetting is the piece of mail I was getting was a certain surprise for Rusty.
For the past 9 days I had been emailing Rusty clues about a big surprise I had planned for him. The surprise was to occur that Sunday and the piece of mail was a voucher to drive our own car around the Talladega race track (which is a big deal around the Rich house!). And this voucher--it couldn't be replaced/purchased--I was a wreck! I couldn't think of where I could have left my day planner and I had Rusty drive downtown to our church at 10pm to see if I had left it there. Long story short--I never found my day planner until after the surprise was over, but we did drive to Talladega anyway in hopes they would feel sorry for the crazy pregnant person. Thankfully, not having the voucher wasn't a big deal. Unfortunately about 2,000 other people (according to the Bham News) showed up to drive around the track too--so we waited in line for FOUR HOURS!!!! Yep..Rusty, Par and me--in a car---in a line--for a really really long time. Rusty wasn't very chipper about his surprise...until he got to drive...

I loved watching the excitement on his face--it was priceless--granted, I was screaming "slow down! we're going to flip over!" the entire time--but he kept his foot to the pedal and a big grin on his face!

Needless to say, we hope to do it again next year. For one reason, it was pretty cool to have our own car on the famous race track...but also, our little boy--he was awake the ENTIRE time--but for the 10 minutes that we drove around the track--he was out. Yep, he slept through it! Ironic, huh! We enjoyed the Fan Appreciation festivities--Par got a smiley face on his hand and got to jump in the bounce house. He had a great time!

We took our annual trip to the pumpkin patch last weekend!

Unfortunately, they didn't have a very strong opening weekend--but that was okay for us--we got the place to ourselves! Par loved picking the pumpkins--and of course, really enjoyed the petting zoo--especially the horses! (hint hint--if any of the grandparents want to get him a pony for his birthday).

I am so happy that fall is officially here...the weather is great for playing outside--which we have been doing a lot of lately now that the rain is gone finally! We've managed to stay well--yet, as I type this Par has developed a little bit of a runny nose and I have been sneezing most of the day--I'm hoping it is just fall allergies.
We are getting REALLY REALLY close to choosing the baby's name! We will post it on the blog when it is decided! I've been feeling good--but very pregnant. For the record, I think I will be going into labor on November 16th. But that is an entire other post for later.

And finally, for those of you who noticed that Par is wearing the same thing in the pictures--it was just a coincidence--it was two separate weekends and in no way implies that the Dinosaurs are his favorite--he loves the dinosaurs, puppies and scissors equally.

Just a glimpse of our little one...

2009-09-15T13:05:00.004-05:00

Isn't he beautiful!?! I think he looks completely different from Par...but I guess we will have to wait! Compare for yourself by looking here at Par around the same time...
My doctor's appointment went great--everything is going great! He moves around all of the time! He is around 3.5 lbs from his measurements...but I know that isn't as scientific as I'd like to believe--so it really doesn't mean much.

And for documentation purposes, Par slept in his big boy bed from 8:20pm until 6:30am--ALL BY HIMSELF! We are so proud of him! The past four days he has been staying in his bed until between 4-4:30am (which we were proud of)...so I woke up at 4:30, then 5:30--no Par. I woke Rusty and asked him where my baby was--he confirmed he was still asleep. At 6:30 he was up and ready to play...he is such a big boy now...we'll see how tonight goes!

A few changes for the Riches…

2009-09-05T10:52:00.010-05:00

Okay…don’t get too excited—this is minor in anyone else’s world—but BIG stuff over here! As you may recall, we’ve been really easy going when it comes to Par and his sleeping—we let him take naps when he wanted—go to sleep at night when he wanted to—and yes, we let him sleep with us every night since we left Gainesville back in 2007.

We did this for a variety of reasons—and as time went on Par’s needs evolved but our arrangement always seemed to still work well with our little boy. He took solid naps each day and has always slept through the night—we had no complaints.

A few weeks ago Par picked up a second nap (the second nap that he had dropped a year earlier)…at first I didn’t really care because I could do more stuff around the house—but after a few days it worried me—all his sleeping was pushing lunch later and having an impact on his dinner. After some investigating I discovered that our precious little guy was sleep deprived. Yikes! The remedy? Duh, more sleep.

So…we began implementing a schedule (GASP! I just despise schedules)—and…..A BEDTIME! I really didn’t know how this would work—Par was such a good napper that I never had to put him to sleep for a nap—and bedtime, well—unless he fell asleep beforehand, he just went to sleep when we did…so this literally was brand new to us.

Okay—so fast forward 14 days—as of today—Par has again dropped that second nap and is happily taking his afternoon nap after about 10 minutes of coaching (and lasting about 2 solid hours) and is bouncing into his big boy bed a little before 8 each night—and asleep after 32 rounds of Jesus Loves Me and 120 God Bless Uncle Joe’s (you know, "God bless mama, God bless daddy, God bless Uncle Joe"—except he says uncle Joe over and over and over—he must know something we don’t) ….and they say that sleep begets sleep—does it? Hmmm...not so sure —well, there is no way he is sleep deprived anymore when he starts bounding through the house at 6:30 AM….

I’d like to say he is sleeping in his room through the night—baby steps my friends. We’re taking it slow—keep in mind, he is sleeping in a big boy bed (the kid has never slept in a baby bed) and so there is a certain point of “awakeness” in the middle of the night that just seems safer to let him get in our bed than to leave him upset in a dark room wide awake crying. He has come so far in such a short time—I don’t want to rush anything….so, average night he gets in our bed around 2am….our best night so far….4:30 am….

Speaking of not rushing things…Par has been potty training himself…I’ve seen the signs—I’ve reacted to them cautiously so not to scare him away—but apparently, I’m not doing enough so Par has taken over and just tells me he needs to go potty---we head that way—we sit on the potty---he reads a magazine—I get impatient and think he must not need to go---so I take him off and then….he tee-tees on the floor and looks at me like, “I said I needed to potty, why did you do that”---we had a lot of that this past weekend—patience is not my strong suit—But the same thing has happened to Rusty—and I wonder how much of it Par is doing on purpose…hmmmm…one thing is for sure, the boy loves LOVES to be naked...and M&M's (which he gets each time he goes potty)...

And because he is starting to potty train, I’ve been busy sewing a fall/winter potty training friendly wardrobe for Par (and a few things for the baby)—His Gigi, Boo and Minnie smocked a few inserts for his shirts--I got carried away with making little pants, we have a few t-shirts to match pants, and my favorite--a winter coat!

I love this pattern--it was so easy and quick to sew--I am going to make him a raincoat and light-weight jacket as soon as I get the fabric! Take look—won’t he be precious!!!! And...at the end of the slide show is a hint of Par's Halloween costume--he is going to be precious!!!!

Oh…some not so great news…Par has been denied for Synagis (RSV shot)—he was denied last year too—but after letters from Dr. Kays and our pediatrician, he got the shots. The overall consensus is that it doesn’t help children over 2 years of age without chronic lung issues---and this is probably true—but we are unique (Par is more susceptible and has very small lungs and it could be devastating) and Dr. Kays, our pediatrician and 2 pediatric Pulmonologists that he asked all said that Par should still get it and would still benefit from the shot—but there is just nothing they can do to get it for us. Thankfully, since Par is older, he most likely would fare better if he were to get it—but still, it is very dangerous for him. So…another season of limited contact/exposure to people—and lots of outside play—thankfully we have mild winters (and really cute outfits now)! Par will be getting the flu shot this coming week and he is on the list to receive the Swine Flu vaccine when it gets here in October.

I had my Gestational Diabetes test (all pregnant women get this test) today—and I passed! Woo Hoo! I didn’t have Gestational diabetes with Par and I am so thankful that I don’t have to worry about that this time either. Everything else seems right on track—and everything seems normal! He moves/somersaults/kicks all the time---but especially when Par is near—either when Par is talking or when Par is in my lap. I wonder if this is a sign of things to come…

Par is a talker—he talks nonstop. Sometimes we don’t have any idea what he is saying—and sometimes it is very clear. He repeats everything and can say (or attempt to say) anything. I love listening to him say “dinosaur”—it is so cute…....almost as cute as how he looks in his dinosaur outfit...

And at night, when we say our prayers….we are teaching him The Lords Prayer—we do it one line at a time…this is what Par says—phonetically of course…we are almost there:

Our Father (Are pauper)

Who Art in Heaven (who are heaben)

Hallowed be thy Name (Hallow name)

Thy Kingdom Come (King Come)

Thy Will be done (Done)

On earth as it is in heaven (heaben)

Give us this day (----)

Our daily bread (daily bed)

And forgive us our trespasses (pesses)

As we forgive those (-----)

Who trespass against us (us)

And lead us not into temptation (Tation)

But deliver us from evil (evil). (He says this word with a creepy grin...and I know it is because Rusty and I start laughing when he says it...we are way too immature to be parents!)

In closing...a peak at my latest sewing project that doesn't involve me sitting at a sewing machine...a little something for Christmas time...I just have to sew 144 more of these!!!

Par's Napping Ways...

2009-08-14T13:50:00.000-05:00

Par didn't fall asleep like this...although that would have been
pretty cute...no...Par insisted on this "outfit" and "props" for his
nap...it was even cuter because his milk was on his chest but it
rolled away and I was afraid I would wake him if I put it back.
Needless to say--this is one of the many reasons that I am so excited
we are having another boy.

An Adventurous Spirit

2009-08-01T22:38:00.009-05:00

I often must remind myself that Par is only 1.5 years old--his adventurous spirit is really quite amazing-- Rusty and I know that this will only get more "exciting"...but you have got to watch this--we did not coax him into doing this--he did it all on his own! First he pulled the trash can over and then climbed up (which is where we found him)--Rusty then went to get his camera and Par just walked right back in and did it again! Needless to say, we have moved the trash can.

For a while now I have been taking Par over to Snoozy's Kids in Crestline after we eat at Zoe's to play with the train table. He gets so excited. Now when I pull into the parking lot he starts saying "Choo Choo! Choo Choo!" I'm glad he likes it--I'm even happier that as of right now, it isn't hard to leave the trains behind. I tell him to say "bye bye" and he does and then we leave. Hopefully the trains and train table can just remain a fun outing (meaning, I don't think I want one for the house). Anyway, although Par does seem to gravitate more to cars when given the option of train-v-car, he still gets excited about trains. He had never seen a real one until tonight. We had a pizza picnic in the rain by the train tracks just praying a train would come roaring by. We were there for a while--we ate pizza, Par played in the rain and then just as we were about to leave (because it was literally POURING) we heard a train coming! Par got pretty excited...the conductor even waved his arm out the window and blew his horn as he went roaring past us!

Baby Boy #2 as been moving around like crazy lately. Par loves to come pat my tummy and say "Baby! Baby" and then give my belly a kiss. Precious! He had me convinced that he "got it" when it came to me having a baby. I realize that when the baby actually gets here I would have to explain that to him--but for now, I was happy that he seemed to understand I had a baby in my belly. He has had me convinced since May--but then yesterday when Rusty was with him, Par pointed to Rusty's stomach and said "Baby!"--Okay, so he's a tad confused....and then tonight, he started patting his own belly saying "Baby! Baby!" I think we can safely say--Par associates all tummies with a baby. So...do not be offended if when he sees you he pats your belly and says "Baby!"--I'm quite sure it is nothing personal.

Par starts "school" this Monday! While Par won't actually be going to school until next year (because of the continued risk of germs)we will be starting a simple little curriculum based on learning a letter each week. It will be just like what we do already (color, read, go to the library, play outside, etc.) but with a tiny bit of structure. It also incorporates counting, shapes, colors and skills such as tracing (with finger or crayon), glueing and sorting. Again, things we already do, but this will just give us a tiny bit of structure. I'm sad that he won't get to experience school like most of his friends--but we know that it is best for him--with our last year of Synagis shots ahead of us, we don't want to do anything to jeopardize his health. And Dr. Kays said that a school setting still isn't the best idea for him and if we can wait one more year then we should. So until then, we'll make the most at home--and we will still be able to enjoy Mother Goose Storytime each Wednesday at the library and our playgroups. So this Monday we are starting with the letter A. Enjoy this flashback...my favorite part of kindergarten was this show...

Loving the Summer

2009-07-25T21:56:00.005-05:00

My pregnancy is going well--praise God. We had our big ultrasound at my regular OB this past week--still a boy! I am measuring perfectly and everything seems to be going fine. Thankfully, I have had plenty of energy lately as it seems someone slipped our son a new battery--he is faster, happier, funnier, stinkier, etc. This wouldn't be such a big deal if he wasn't so darn independent! We have had several instances when adults (ADULTS!!!) have seen Par coming their way and actually opened a door for him or stepped out of his way---ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?! I guess they didn't notice the crazy mother running after him trying to get him to stop. One such incident could have been traumatic--we were eating lunch at Chick-fila and tossing our trash when Par headed towards the door--you know, the door that opens right into the drive-thru. This woman smiled and opened the door for him. Rusty went running after him and I just stared at her in disbelief. She looked at me in her own disbelief and said "I don't know why I did that--he just looked like he knew where he was going. I am so sorry." Tell me this--how does a BABY look like he knows where his is going when it involves CARS. She felt horrible--and Par was fine...but this happens a lot. And before anyone emails me advice, no--we will not be putting him on a leash.
But Par's independece is pretty innocent. He loves to play outside, and for the most part, there isn't much he can get into outside. Sometimes I'll hear him walk into the kitchen and then the doggie door will make the "swish" sound and then low and behold, there is my baby playing outside. He probably thinks that is how you get in and out--duh! that's how the dogs do it! Lately it has become a bit of a problem if I am doing dishes at night--he'll disappear out the doggie door after a bath and then come in dirty and wet--not cool. So why do we let him do this? I'm not sure...I guess mainly because I can't see the point of not letting him--the child is able to open doors easily and for all I know he can use a key and set the alarm on his way out!
As we have expressed before, our faith is very important to us--we make a point to talk about Jesus quite often. Each night after his bath, Par will grab his crucifix off the wall, say "Nigh-nigh Jesus" and then kiss him right on the head. He'll then shove it into my face to do the same and then put Jesus back on the wall. When we go to mass, he gets SO EXCITED to see "big Jesus" behind the altar and will point and say happily "big Jesus! big Jesus! Hey big Jesus!" I know for sure, this is the child-like love that Christ talks about--and we learn a lot about that from Par. If all of that isn't sweet/cute enough--we have noticed a strange occurrence in our house lately. You see, each time we enter the sanctuary, we dip our fingers into the holy water and cross ourselves. We have made a point to include Par in this from his very beginning. He always smiles--and we pray silently that this holy water may keep him quiet and still for the next hour--but that is a different story altogether. So...lately...our saintly son will wander into a bathroom, lift up the toilet seat, dip his fingers in the water, touch his fingers to his forehead and then walk away. The first few times I saw this I was quick to say "No Par! don't play in the toilet!"--but then I realized what he was doing and my heart melted. No--our toilet water isn't holy--nor do I feel it could ever represent the living waters of baptism--but the act itself is so innocent--so precious that again I praise God for our little miracle. Our friend Father Donohoe was in town recently and we relayed the story to him hoping that us enjoying this childhood act of innocence wasn't a sacrilege--of course, his response--"Sounds like you need a holy water font in your house." Easy enough. But that wouldn't be quite as endearing, would it?

I feel our second son kick more and more--mostly about the time I climb into bed. I feel a certain bond with this child--being a second child myself. I look at my husband who is also a second child--but he and I are quite different. I am more "typical" of the second child...Rusty is more like a first child (could be the larger age difference between him and his brother)--and I wonder--where will this child will fall? Par is far from being a first child with how wild and crazy he is--but he does has 1st born qualities--he is stubborn and quite independent--but this second child may put him to shame ! (Lord, I pray that if this is the case--may you give me strength and patience to tame the wild monkeys).

We don't have a name yet--although we still have a lot of the same ones from when we were deciding on Par's own name. We talk about it--but not in any sort of decisive way right now--we're just taking it easy--I'm sure we'll name him soon enough...and of course, we'll let you know when we do. Feel free to leave suggestions.
Life has been pretty good since we returned from our beach trip--Par was able to spend some quality time with his cousins over the 4th--Boo and Sir had us down for a long weekend--the guys (sans Par) played golf, while the rest of us went swimming or sat in time out for hitting or throwing toys. The food was delicious--and although nothing beats spending the weekend with Boo and Sir--it was also nice to have my sister Sally there too! We miss Sal SOOOO much--or as Par says, Aunt Sassy--which couldn't be further from the truth--Sal is way more crunchy than sassy... (I'm sure I'll get an email about that comment--but my filter has been down these past few weeks-- so I'm just going to leave it and deal with the consequences :) I love you aunt scrunchy!)

It is really hot and sticky here--I'm begging for the fall to finally get here! OH...I almost forgot...huge update....remember when my Aunt Lissy and her family gave us a pear tree for Christmas 2007? Sure you do! Check it out in the slideshow. Well, we are about to have our first harvest--this little baby pear tree is covered in pears! YAY!

We really enjoyed Mary Lynne's baptism...see pictures here.

I don't know if I have mentioned this before...but I am not afraid to go shopping on the side of the road. My first memory of this was in college when my roommate and I found wood pallets in the garbage of the Physical Plant on campus--to us, they were perfect headboards for our room! Since then, I have kept my eyes pealed for treasures! I found some great outdoor furniture around the corner, when the people moved out next door to us they left us cushions that fit perfectly! About a month ago I took a detour and found a BRAND NEW (okay, barely used...or only used in doors) Cozy Coupe for Par! I also love craigslist--but that does cost money (even if it is still a great deal...I just prefer free. Plus, I change my mind about things (rearrange/toss out) so quickly that it is usually better if I haven't really invested in it. Anyway, I have been wanting a slide for Par. We don't have room in our backyard for a swingset/slide combo--plus, I love going to the park(s) so I really had my mind set on a single slide. But come on! Have you seen them--they are are incredibly wimpy looking--not steep or fast--and I am sure you can appreciate the fact that our little monkey needs more than a 10 degree incline to keep him occupied and having fun. I had told my mom and Rusty in conversation that I was on the lookout (meaning on the side of the road) for a slide. So...as a side note there is a look that Rusty gives that is part of why I fell in love with him--the glance of the eyes and the crook of his mouth in this perfect combination--I love seeing it...but I don't see it very often and I am yet to capture it on camera--but it might be my favorite look that he gives. Well...we were driving down Euclid Avenue and I spot it--A SLIDE! I look at Rusty and THAT LOOK comes over his face! He pulls over and graciously loads the slide-the look reappears a few more times as we continue home...we got Par's slide! The one I had just mentioned to Rusty a few days earlier! Funny thing is, Par's favorite outside toys (other than the rocks on the pathway) are the slide and the cozy coupe--and they were both free! And in case you are wondering, we donate to the side of the road shoppers too. Nothing like putting something you don't need anymore on the side of the road and it disappearing within an hour or so! Enjoy pictures of Par and Violet sliding in the slide show!

OH....and I almost forgot this too!!! I thought I might mention the "outfit" Par is wearing while playing on the slide. THOSE ARE HIS PAJAMAS! The night before Par WOULD NOT go to sleep without his shoes and socks on. I'm not kidding--he was crying HYSTERICALLY--"Shoe mama! Shoe mama!" and when I got them he screamed "No...sock mama and shoe mama!" So I realized he wanted to wear them---to sleep. Whatever. I put them on and he fell right to sleep. So when I went to sleep I lovingly removed them--I can't really let him sleep in shoes--can I? At 5am....screaming for his shoes and socks again. So Rusty put them back on...and he was ready to slide...at 7am...or whatever time--all I know, it was early.

Our little new monkey...

2009-06-22T22:09:00.005-05:00

Father's Day was nice--or I think it was--Church was nice, lunch was yummy, golf was on television, Rusty hung out with Par and me...
But on my mind was today's appointment--thankfully, I slept the entire night--not TOO anxious that I stared at the clock every hour. My night was pretty peaceful--my morning filled with lots of laundry to keep me busy until our 1:00 pm appointment. Had it been a complete repeat of June 2007, I would have been a little more on edge, but the High Risk Clinic has now moved to a different location--so it was completely new for us.
Our appointment was easy--the doctor, having asked about the outcome of our first pregnancy, remarked on how "lucky" we were to bring our son home and that he is now thriving (other than our little weight gain thing)--we have definitely been blessed.

Two years ago this week we received the devastating news about our son--and here we are--two years later receiving great news about our son.

What's that? Are you confused?

Don't be! Today we found out that our son--the one baking in my belly--does not show any abnormalities--the diaphragm seems intact--the heart looks good--everything seems to be there and in the right place!

I know...I know...you thought we wouldn't find out because of a previous post. But come on...if you fell for that then you don't know me at all!

For the record, Rusty called it last night--he said we were having a boy. He is always right.

So...another monkey. Second children are always way worse than the first--I should know---ahem. I have spent most of the day imagining my life in a year and I can't help but laugh...

The pictures they gave us are terrible--but we'll have good ones in a few weeks--so just hold your horses.

So...to sum up:
Par's going to be a big brother.
The baby shows no signs of CDH.
And 82% of you were WRONG, we're having a boy!

Praise God!!! Thank you for your prayers!

Are you lying to me?

2009-06-18T09:45:00.011-05:00

"Roar."

Par was up pretty early playing and then crawled back in the bed and with a trail of stinkyness. I looked at him and asked, "Do you have a poopy diaper?" and he shook his head from side to side to indicate no. I said, "Are you lying to me?" and he replied with a roar, a lying's roar, that is. And for those of you confused, lying= lion to a 19 month old baby. Rusty and I both cracked up laughing.

We have had a really busy summer already! Par's Big D and Minnie came to visit--so of course we headed to the zoo and the carousel (thanks to last time!) We had a great time--and of course, we were able to take our annual picture of the boys on the tractor at the zoo.

Then of course, we celebrated a very important day, my 31st birthday! My sister made the cake--it was DELICIOUS! It was also my niece/godchild's HALF birthday, so she was able to blow out 3.5 candles first!

We headed to the beach in Fort Morgan the next day--the first time in YEARS! The last time Rusty and I went to the beach was on our honeymoon--which we had to evacuate because of Hurricane Wilma--and then we had our 3 month hotel stay while Par was in the hospital--so needless to say this real trip was a long time coming. It was perfect!
We were both able to completely relax and enjoy our little family. We rented the house on pretty short notice so we weren't certain what we were in store for--but we plan to stay there again next year--we loved it that much! We ate breakfast, lunch and dinner on our deck overlooking the water--we definitely felt like we were in paradise. I'm not sure if Tiffany and Violet felt the same way, but I do think they enjoyed the change of atmosphere. Take a look at Par seeing the ocean for the first time...

Par's Gigi got to come for a total of 24 hours (we are so thankful she made the drive) and FINALLY Gigi agreed that our sugar white beaches on the gulf are prettier than the beaches on the Atlantic. That was also a long time coming. Thank you very much.

Par was really funny at the beach--he started making up songs to the tune of "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star"---like "Crabby Crabby Little Crabby" in reference to his crab float that he fell asleep in while relaxing in the ocean waves. The last morning there, Rusty and I awoke to Par sitting between us shouting at 7:30 AM, "Crabby! Crabby! Crabby!"---all he wanted to do was get in his crab float--so at 8:30 am, we headed down for one last swim before we headed home (aren't we sweet parents!)

After a rather quick ride home (thanks to John Grisham's Associate) we unpacked and rested--or we tried to....
We headed over to Gigi's house to see Par's second cousins (or would they be second cousin once removed--they are the children of Rusty's first cousin--so enlighten me if you know the exact relation) that had been visiting Rusty's grandmother while we were at the beach. Par had a blast running around with the older two (chasing and being chased!)--and we loved meeting their new addition!

So...we have THE BIG ULTRASOUND on Monday. I say "big ultrasound" because it is the first ultrasound with the high-risk doctors at Kirklin Clinic/UAB--and we hope to learn that everything is in the right place (ie- no signs of CDH)...although, it doesn't mean we are in the clear if everything looks perfect because herniation can happen later on in pregnancy--as my ultrasound tech chimed last time "up until a week before you deliver!"--so this may not be a worry free pregnancy, but I'll take it day by day (or ultrasound by ultrasound)--so we would appreciate prayers for our precious little baby...and who knows...we may just know the gender by Monday afternoon....or not....hmmmmm.....we'll just have to see.

What would you think...

2009-06-05T17:46:00.000-05:00

...If you had to wait 181 more days to find out if our precious baby
is a boy or a girl? Could you handle it?

I went to my OB today...whether or not we are having a boy or a girl--
we know one thing for sure-- we are having another monkey...this baby
was literally flipping so fast that getting the heart rate was a
challenge...
As for any CDH signs...so far so good!

Sent from my iPhone