havenar home

He's Here!!!

2011-08-04T22:32:00.002-06:00

Calvin Jeffrey Havenar joined us on July 28th, 2011. I am still amazed that he and Reed share the exact same birth "stats"...7lbs, 7.9oz and 21.5 inches long. And Calvin was 8 days early, and Reed 9. I think this is because their long legs and big feet no longer fit in the womb! :) He arrived quickly and easily, and I am very thankful for such a wonderful labor experience. Also thankful for the sweet love that Reed has showered Calvin with, and the very good baby Calvin has been in his first week of life! Eating and sleeping like a charm, nothing more we could ask for!
I love my boys!!!

Another boy on the way, hip hip hooray!

2011-06-09T15:17:00.002-06:00

Spring Break San Diego

2011-04-10T18:18:00.007-06:00

I put much emphasis on this spring break, I think. This is in part because I think I have felt a little "trapped" in this growing pregnant body of mine :), as well as I can't help but think that this is our last family-o'-three vaca...a thought that makes me sad (resistance to change, here I go again...:)), though happy for our "complete" family that will make up the memories of our next family getaway.

Hmm, where to begin? Let's start by saying that I hope to relive this very vacation again and hopefully again and again...maybe make it a "tradition" of sorts. We LOVED our hotel, The Catamaran, and found it to be perfect for us. Reed exclaimed, "Our hotel is a RAIN FOREST!" upon our arrival, and the amazement, impressiveness, and good times kept rolling thereafter.

Our hotel had a "bay side" complete with sand toys for the kids, cabanas and food and drink for the 'rents, and nightly cruises for the whole family. Two blocks away was the non-bay, 'real' beach, "the wave beach" as Steve and Reed called it, Mission Bay. Plenty of shops and restaurants and easy rinse off and whatnot for built-in fun plus convenience...a family's "must". Within our hotel we had lush palms, talking parrots that greeted/repeated the guests, refreshing pool and plush cabanas, and...Steve's favorite...a large room with built in full-but-mini kitchen :).

SEA WORLD was a highlight of our stay, Reed rocked the place and we stayed until almost 5:00, skipping his usual 2-5pm nap altogether (he slept for the night, 12 hours, from 6:30pm-6:30am after we left :). We rode rides, hit three shows, lunched and snacked, played on the play structures and (literally) soaked up the mini water park. Reed feeding the dolphin was picture-perfect and he's talked about it several times since. Luckily, we were the very last people to be able to do so before they cut the line off!

Steve surfed, I had some pool time, and we enjoyed the perfect weather and beach as much as we could fit in. We were also thankful to spend time with Reed's former nanny (2nd mom, actually!) and best bud (like a sister, actually!) who live there. Eric, Jessica, and Bella were kind enough to host us for an evening and Reed and Bell had a BLAST (to say the least) slipping right back into their old days of both reckless fun (contributed by wild Reed) and structured play (thanks to Bella :)). Bella cried when it was time for us to say goodbye and Reed has mentioned moving to San Diego, staying at Bella's, Bella visiting here, and talking about the fun had ever since. Peas in a pod!

The only flaw of our time had was that was it was too too short (aren't getaways always that way? :)). We didn't spend time with all the peeps we wanted to, but that just makes for another excuse to head back again...hopefully, as I said, a Havenar family tradition!

"Choo, Choo, Choo...Reed Havenar's no longer TWO!"

2010-11-12T16:07:00.001-07:00

My "baby" is THREE!
This is the first birthday that Reed "owned". It was all about him and his good time with friends, only a handful of his nearest-and-dearest as opposed to the bigger groups we have had in the past (which often included OUR friends with kids). It was priceless to see him interact with his "buddies" and also a bit embarrassing for me, too, when he played favorites with a few instead of including all...natural, I know, but not in my adult, "social etiquette" comfort-zone :).

Reed has been having on-and-off behavior at school and it often includes his interactions with his buddy/girlfriend-of-sorts :), partner-in-crime, Annie. She was his side-kick at his party, too, and the only one "picked" to sit by him on the train, for pictures, etc.. Other guest included friends Emerson and Brady, Annie's twin Ben, usual BFF Bella and her mom Jess, the three grandparents, and cousin Cooper.

We celebrated at the Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden, and it was wonderful! Balloons, pizza, and cake on the "party car" all to ourselves and train rides for the kids. Roamed the grounds a bit, too, and Reed could have cared less if we were there, I think, he was in his "element" :) and a happy, social butterfly to say the least. He's growing so fast and, though it makes me sad that all of our family can't be a part of these experiences and changes, we treasure every day of them and honor each year of memories with a day of reflection and BIRTHDAY FUN. We love you, dear dear REED! :)

Reed Starts Pre-school (boo-hoo, sniff-sniff) ;)

2010-09-06T15:48:00.009-06:00

Last February, I got teary when Steve and I visited some pre-schools because I just couldn't believe we were turning that "big boy" corner...I am sentimental and over-emotional about such things (I already know to prepare myself with much kleenex for real "milestones" in my children's' future). So, when his 1st day came, I should have known that it was a parent issue just as much as Reed's when the separation was difficult. As rough-and-tumble as he is, our firstborn is an attached, sensitive little thing!

We took pictures and did the long goodbye on Day 1, and Steve even got watery, too...who wouldn't when your son is clinging to your leg pleading, "Daddy, I don't want you to GO!!!!". Day two was the worst, he sputtered out through sobs, "Mommy, I want you to stay one and two and three and four more times" (which I took to mean "a long time" in 2-year old language). He also told me he "needed to suck his fingers again", which killed me as he never has done this, so I wondered if that was a self-soothe thing he'd discovered? (Pretty introspective and so sad, I thought!). I picked him up that day to find him in a change of pants and his teacher handed me a bag with his wet ones, along with his lunchbox with untouched food as he didn't want to eat, either. She explained that he'd cried on and off all day. On the way home he told me, "Dereck pushed me. He is BAD. The teacher said 'Dereck, we don't push our friends!'. Mommy, that's BAD". Sigh...
...and that night was back-to-school night. I felt that the teachers were only talking directly to us (though I realistically know that they weren't) when we all signed "potty contracts" which basically said that if our kids were still having a hard time with their training at school, it was legitimate for them to ask us to find another school with week's notice. Um, great. So, I cried again that night...this time out of despair as the "mama bear" came out in me, my poor baby :)!

Day three was much better...one of his best...and I chalked up my tears from the night before to my own back-to-school exhaustion. Note to self, I reminded my thoughts: this new experience is indeed NEW to us all, of course it's not going to be "butterflies and rainbows" from the get-go, though that's all I'd pictured when I'd happily read pre-school books to him all summer and when we'd merrily shopped for and packed up new classroom supplies, taken pictures of his cuteness (lunchbox in hand and all) in the yard, etc.! The teacher in me, I guess ;)

Despite the center's director mentioning to me that Reed "has lasted the longest" of all the 'criers', and also the morning that a parent said to me upon drop-off, "oh, he's so cute. I felt so sorry for him the other day when I peeked in their room to see it was him that was crying so hard", each day his tears have lessened from the previous and we have even had two NO TEAR days. I actually almost shed happy ones the day he looked super nervous but instead of crying seemed to think things through to get his act/courage together and exclaimed, "after a while, crocodile!" as I was leaving.

I still have some Kinders in my room who cry for their parents when saying goodbye in the morning and we are one more week into school than my Reed, so I am proud of his gradual-though-definite bravery during this big adjustment (and, may I say, of mine too ;)).

Thank You, UPark!

2010-08-31T17:00:00.001-06:00

A year under my belt at University Park, woot-woot!!! I can not tell you how much happier I am on a daily basis going to work, and what an overall life change that meant for me. Loving one's job is HUGE and I feel blessed to say that I thoroughly enjoy my mornings of teaching and interactions with colleagues and, when I return home, my positive energy goes a long way. I didn't realize how much a 'professional' environment could carry over to personal, "non-work" time and relationships until I really reflected on this the last two years. Having experienced both extremes during that time, I know how very fortunate I am to have changed my course. Life is short and challenging enough, so, at the very least, seek and demand for yourself zen in what you can control- you are worth it!

Rockin' Ring Bearer

2010-07-16T22:22:00.007-06:00

Steve and I had reservations about bringing Reed to one of our good friend's weddings in Boston over the 4th of July weekend. How much more relaxing and fun it would be sans the wild child, cost, who would watch him back home, ya know...cons. But the 4th is probably my favorite holiday and I was sad at the thought of not spending it with my boo. Icing on the cake was when the wedding couple asked for Reed to be the ring bearer, I just couldn't refuse passing up the opportunity to let his cuteness walk down the aisle...even if it did mean a different "vacation" for us than previously imagined.

Mere days before leaving, while looking over the upcoming weekend events, I panicked and looked into booking my sister a flight to Boston so she could help us out. Several friends of ours would be there and we wanted to enjoy long nights out as well as daytime wedding events that were scheduled to interfere with his nap. I am not too crazed about a schedule for him, especially in summer months, but with his very important RING BEARER debut (not to mention wanting to not only stay sane but have FUN myself), I wanted to avoid creating a cranky terror if at all possible. But, no such luck, flying Brooke out didn't work out. HOWEVER, bringing Reed along more than did!...

Reed couldn't have been any better and more enjoyable and made our weekend more entertaining and wonderful than had we gone ourselves (and, frankly, though I love him, I would not say this about all trips we've gone on or will go on in our future!). He was sweet and inquisitive on the plane, smiled and chatted with the pilots in the cockpit upon boarding and found the take-off and landing to be "AMAZING"! And that was only the flight there...

In Boston, Reed hammed it up with Steve's friends, got in a solid nap with no protest every day despite the varying times we put him down, and loved every minute of the social scene. I will say that after a too-long bus ride from our hotel to the wedding site (2hrs.), he did throw a fit as we hurriedly dressed him in his "duds" and made him go potty PRONTO while several well-meaning (too many) people tried to "help" in the panic of crunched time, but really just crowded him. Despite this, he pulled his professional self together! Pillow in hand, he "found Daddy" at the end of the aisle and rocked his role. Though the rocking didn't truly start until the reception where he definitely owned the dance floor for a good part of the night and definitely wanted to be on it ALL of the night! Assuming beforehand that I'd take the early shuttle home with him, I was proven wrong as he wanted to party on with the big boys :). His highlight, I believe, came at the end of the night when the two buses loaded up the guests, one 'party bus' and the other mellow. The bride and groom said a few words, started a few songs, on the mic up front and then Reed asked for his turn. He proceeded to sing "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" to all the guests, as well as "Happy Birthday" to the bride. Sweet hilarious thing! The 'spirited' guests found the kareoking pretty funny, but so did this sober mom because it indisputably was! So proud of my Rockin' Ring Bearer!

Will soon be posting a slideshow of the weekend highlights, including my great day at the Boston Children's Museum with him, his first baseball game (fun Boston Red Sox night!), and a few from our fireworks flop! Reed's greatness proved itself that night, too, as he waited with us (among a squeezed-together crowd of 200,000+!!!) for four hours before the lakeside firework show began. And I'm not talking picnic-blanket style, more like squished standing sardines in a can! Poor patient thing!
Anyhow...hope your Independence Day weekend also was a blast, happy very belated 4th!

Basketball Boy

2010-03-01T14:45:00.000-07:00

Reed proudly calls himself a "basketball boy". At the ripe age of not-even 2 and a half, he insists on wearing jersys and/or "jersy shorts" only. If you see any pictures of him without these clothing staples, know that it was most likely quite a battle, bribe, or persuasive act to get him into something else. I will say one (of many!) things that we all enjoy in our household, though, is college basketball. Though we also represent a "house divided" in who we root for at times, we do enjoy the season of rooting the game on. And so, we were eager to take our "basketball boy" to his first games this year (Steve, myself, and my parents- a.k.a. "Grandpa and G.G." attended both).

His first game ever, naturally, was to see his Jayhawks in action (at CU in February), and shortly after- also naturally- we took him to see the Fighting Falcons at AFA. Though the Falcons have had more fight in them in years past, the beauty of it was that Reed could've cared less about that minor detail. He loved being a ticket holder (slept with his KU ticket and proudly held onto his AFA one during the game) and really loved seeing the mascots "live". He chased the Falcon around Clune Arena and "gave him a squeeze" which he still talks about...many squeezes that is.

Will be many o' years, I believe, of this basketball obsession, but we not only welcome it but share in the joy!

Mommy, Hold My Hand...

2010-02-20T14:25:00.000-07:00

Reed is a hand-holder and how this sweet little-something is so important to me. Important and cherished as I know my days are numbered of "hand-holding" with my sweet boy.

In November, I had Veteran's Day off and so took Reed to the park (was super warm though November 11th!). A boy pushed him because he was about to pick up the kid's shovel or something, and Reed got that crumpled up, "wounded" face, burst into tears and shouted "MOMMY! Hold my hand!!!". I had to kinda love it, though his feelings were hurt, because I thought to myself...tomorrow he will be two and oh-how-fast these birthdays sneak up!...how many more until he won't want to hold my hand?

Come December, on Santa's lap, he kept calling over to me- in a timid little voice: "Mom. hold. my. hand.", (repeated numerous times). Would only stay on Santa's lap when I was holding his hand, though I eventually got a photo without my arm in it by bribing my child with fruit snacks...didn't think of it until now, but kinda wish I'd just had it taken with my hand as his comfort instead ;)

Over break, Steve cut Reed's hair. This took waaaaay to long and we have since learned from this experience :). Anyhow, because it was taking so darn long Reed understandably got restless in his high chair/"barber's chair" and Steve called to me, "will you come hold his hands?", meaning of course: hold his hands down, so he doesn't swat at the scissors anymore. As I was walking over there, Reed said, "yeah, Mommy, come hold my hand"...and that was enough to keep him perfectly content and still for the rest of the grooming! Poor thing...had to feel a little guilty that we'd thought of pinning 'em down and he, unknowingly, shed light and new perspective on our words....made the too-long experience much more pleasant for all involved!

Ah, do you think he will let me hold his hand when I walk him to school...high school even? :)

"Mommy, I made you a BIRTHDAY!!!", says sweet Reed...

2010-02-18T23:06:00.003-07:00

"Mommy, I made you a birthday party!!!!!", Reed kept eagerly and excitedly telling me. He led me into the bathroom to show me his "birthdy party" for me...lotions and whatnot all in the sink. He even 'stirred' it for me, smiling the whole time and talking about "mommy's birhday" that he made "all by myself". Sweet, sweet boy. Made my (birth)day!...who cares if my real day isn't until October? ;)

Thankful!

2010-01-01T22:14:00.007-07:00

My Thanksgiving post is very late! Having left our camera charger in Colorado Springs until just last week, I hadn't uploaded any pictures from the holiday until just today. SO, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's photo organization is going down all in a day or so...a bit grueling when you snap as many photos as I! THANKFUL to be putting this task behind me, and fun to remember the great Turkey Day we had a month back...

Our Thanksgiving was full of chaotic fun, meaning we gathered with the Havenars this year! Fourteen cousins, mostly boys, nine adults, and two dogs all under one roof (thanks to the Palmer Lake bunch for opening their home, BTW!).

Our fun included a visit to the North Pole (a childhood memory of mine, such nostalgia!), a movie with the sisters-in-laws (New Moon, SO GOOD!), a wonderful multiple-dish feast, and of course much play and relaxation. We were blessed to have awesome weather in the 60's, so the kids were able to eat outside as well as run wild outdoors, too! And, speaking of running wild...

As many of you know, my son is a meek, shy, always perfectly calm and reserved child (insert: heavy sarcasm, of course :)!!!). But, I have to say, that his older cousins fueled his budding fire and he was "ON" that week, more so than I had ever seen. I noticed it the days following our holiday as he picked up a 'more mature', "nope!" sass towards me and tried to wrestle several- both non-living and human- beings as well. His nanny, too, noticed his new boldness and, hiding her smile, had no choice to put him in more time-outs than ever...couch-jumping, toy-throwing, weapon-making (out of toys), etc. I was lucky to capture this new Reed o' ours in the picture above, holding- and putting to use- a bat in one hand and toy pistol in the other, 'on the draw' and all...nice! Am gearing up for some years of wildness that I never had the chance to experience in my all-sister, Cabbage Patch Doll 'mothering' days ;)

Am VERY THANKFUL for our Havenar family, 'twas fun y'all (that's for you, Texan branch!).

Halloween+Birthday+More to Come=FALL FUN!

2009-11-18T22:10:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2009-11-18T20:02:00.003-07:00

Our falls are especially packed as, in addition to Halloween and Thanksgiving, we celebrate a household of birthdays. Mine in mid-October (skipped this year due to my dad's retirement, though well worth the great time we had!), and Steve and Reed's ten days apart in early November. All in under a month!

I put together another "Smilebox" that combines Reed's Halloween and birthday. I loved these special days especially this year as I feel he is now "getting it". We read Halloween books as well as birthday-themed reads, discussing the routines and rituals of each beforehand. It's fun teaching Kindergarten this year, too, because I teach him all the songs and poems that I teach my class.

We had several costume options for Halloween, but ended up going with the least constrictive one as R's a finicky one! The fireman costume consisted of boots and a coat, two things he enjoys wearing daily so easy to trick him into wearing :). Plus, he's more than into the fireman/firetruck/firehouse/hose/fireman dog/ladder- you get the idea- thing as of late too. We had three trick-or-treating type of events, the first just the two of us at the Children's Museum as I was on fall break. He loved it! On Halloween day, we went to "Boo at the Zoo" as a family, with our friends The Brooks'. That night, we did the traditional neighborhood trick-or-treating with the girls next door, Kennedy and Chandler, who Reed adores! He was in awe of all the costumed kids and it was awesome to be a part of his wonder.

Next up was his Cookie Monster themed party. We didn't have the big bash that we did last year for his 1st, just a handful of kids that he knows well and plays often with, as well as my parents and his nanny, Jessica. Reed talked about his birthday several days beforehand, often confused when we'd sing to him like at a family dinner we had one night as well as on his actual day, he'd ask "where's the party", or demand "birthday cake?!", he knew what a birthday entailed and wasn't going to be short-changed!

And, so, here's a Smilebox o' smiles from Reed's great month. More happiness to come with our Havenar Thanskgiving (14 cousins= craziness and fun!) and Christmas in South Dakota yet ahead!

Happy Birthday TWO Reed!!!

2009-11-12T00:15:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday TWO you, Reed-O!!!
(above pics are "through the years" :))
Reed turned two on November 12th and it is amazing how the last two years flew by, yet it is hard to remember life without him as if it were long, long ago. Funny how that contradiction just seemingly makes sense as a parent!

Though two, Reed is "going on ten", or at least three...he told a lady at the store that he was three when asked recently ;). He is very deliberate, inquisitive, verbal, strong, and independent...the combo of some of these characteristics make for some unbelievable fits o' rage ;)! On the flip side, he remains very cuddly which I savor every second of! Hugs, snuggles, and head resting all allowed, but not kisses..."Ow, that HURT!" is now what we get when we dare to sneak in a smooch!

Our celebration for Reed this year was not the big bash that we had last year, but a great gathering nonetheless. He was excited and seemingly awkward at the attention, not knowing quite what to do with himself as guests arrived. He rolled around and made weird sounds when his first friends came- way to "be cool", Reed! The party's theme was Cookie Monster, and he wore a cookie shirt, I made a cookie monster cake, and the favors and house were "cookied out" as much as possible (the teacher in me :)).

Having had the flu shot, Reed knew all about the process of vacinations at his two year appointment. He only had to have the H1N1 shot at his check-up, but he freaked out at everything that came before it, probably shouldn't have prepared him/talked up the appointment beforehand as much as I did. His fear-struck tantrums when poor nurse and doc tried to listen to his heart, check his ears, measure his length and get his weight made for an unnessesary drawn out appointment! He remains 99%tile for height, and 50%tile for weight...just like his mama was growing up (though the weight part caught up a bit in my later years, ha!). We followed up the appointment with a family outting to Red Robin for the birthday song and some great grub, just like last year...maybe a 'tradtion' now, know it's one I wouldn't object to!

Looking forward to another great year with our one-of-a-kind, fabulous son. We are so blessed to have him in our lives, each day a new adventure!

2009-10-19T23:26:00.000-06:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

What a Weekend!

2009-10-18T15:28:00.006-06:00

There are no words to describe the awesomeness of the past weekend. As most of you know (especially if you are a facebook or twitter friend of mine!), we celebrated my dad's retirement and an unbelievable time it was.

Schedule of weekend events included:
Thursday afternoon- SHOUT OUT to my dad on ESPN's "PTI"/Pardon the Interruption

Friday- Football/Athletic Department Luncheon, AF Academy tour of new athletic facilities (for older alums who had yet to see them) led by my dad, casual dinner out where ex-players already in town were able to tell stories about my dad and catch up before the big night

Saturday- alum tennis tournament, a huge success and fun for all!, football game, and the big dinner at the press box that night. Didn't see many who weren't brought to tears and/or laughter throughout the evening!

Sunday- brunch back at the Gugat home, farewell to those who attended and dinner that night for those still in town

Monday- casual lunch at the golf course for a few remaining close family and friend of my dad's

All of this made for a busy weekend but, well worth it to understate thing. My sisters and I are so thankful that the heartfelt dedication from many that went into putting this special time together. Such effort and generosity gave way to memories that will go unmatched to any that we, or most importantly our wonderful father, will have.

Saturday started with a bang as the ex-players brought a tear (or two or more) to my dad's eye through the eagerness, excitement, and loving energy that they brought to the courts that morning. Players ranging from the class of '72 to current paired up for a doubles tournament unlike any that the great Academy tennis facilities have ever seen.

Later that night, every speaker amazed us with their out-pour of emotion and shared love for our dad. All in attendance were touched, the room a combination of uncontrolled tears and hearty laughter throughout the entire program. About 250 attended, and many who wanted to be there but could not, sent sentiments of sincerity that, too, were moving.

My dad was honored because of his success as a winning coach (the winningest in AFA history, btw!) and for his great contributions to the Academy's Athletics and school as a whole. We are extremely proud of this. More so, though, we are proud of him as a person. I truly know no other better being than my dad. And what a lucky thing that is.

I left last weekend saddened, a bit depressed to be honest, that his "era" at the Academy is ending. But, I also smile quickly when thinking about what a legendary and awesome era that was. Also smiling because, with this new found retirement thing on his hands, we have my dad that much more to ourselves. Let the good times roll...

We love you, Dad/"Coach". I can speak for so, so many when I simply say, "Thank you for being you".

Whatta WEEKEND!!!!

Back-to-School/Greener Grass

2009-09-01T14:49:00.018-06:00

Billy Madison's ditty says it best, and I always have it in my head when August arrives as that's "THE month" that we all head back to school, with some excitement but also with reluctant dragging of heals.

Having left the only school I have ever taught at and known behind, and for nine years at that, it was unsettling to "learn the ropes" again, so to speak. I am not only in a new school, but also a new district and grade-level as well. My old district consisted of six elementary schools, whereas my new district has, oh, roughly sixty-five. I taught intermediate grade-levels in my former days and now have a handful of 5-year olds, some still four. Parent involvement used to be extremely minimal, now I have a parent who organizes the many volunteering parents in a schedule for me...wow! I love both of these very different worlds for varying reasons.

What I will miss about my 'old world' is the dear, close friends that share so many "glory days" memories with me, hilarous never-to-be-topped student/community/parent/staff tales that never cease to crack us up still. Trips to Vegas, late nights in Denver, scandelous gossip :). These friends were there for me in hard times...September 11th, 2001 was my first month teaching, tears were also shed during my "final" break-up with Steve (luckily not-so-final :)), and later, my miscarriage. These same friends were very influencial to me in both my professional teaching life and my personal life, you know...the kind of people that make you strive to be a better person. Spending my days with these people, seeing them as many, or more, hours in the week as I do my own family...is something I will miss. But, they are not why I moved on...

Sadly, the leadership in my building changed and so did some of the staff. While some of this was needed and initially a good thing, or so I thought, it turned ugly. It amazes me how one poisneous person can negatively effect an entire staff. Personal vendedas, threats behind closed doors, extreme and unpreditable highs and lows, etc., took a toll on many who worked there, and I had to ask myself why I was even a part of this environment anymore? Take it or leave it? Bite the bullet or dodge it? So, I decided to seek greener grass before being completely sucked into the dark cloud that was expanding over our building. Fortunatley, the stars aligned perfectly and, as dramatic as it may sound, I feel like I was kind of saved in a way.

My new school couldn't be a happier place. Integrity, morale, support, positive feedback, and just all-around decency (note to self, employees and employers: such character traits and virtues WORK in the workplace :)). BTW, my perspective is not just from a new, ignorace-is-bliss, naive point of view. Believe me, I did my homework/P.I. work before making the big leap! While the complete newness of my job brings daily challenges, the happiness and comfort I feel each day in my surroundings is well worth the change. Breathing easier these days and smiling because of it. Change is GOOD...you may remember from earlier blogs that I am one who has to often remind myself of that :).

So, here's to the pursuit of happiness (good movie, btw :)), and, hopefully, a year of Kindergarten bliss!

p.s. Pics are of my new room, Reed my setting-up helper...he found the loft right away..."LADDDDER!", and my school. Happy Back-to-School to all!

Thanks, Texas Havenars!!!

2009-08-05T22:30:00.011-06:00

A big thanks to our Texas family for sharing their lake house with us YET AGAIN. We feel so thankful to have this relaxing escape awaiting each time we decide to head down there, whether it be a planned-in-advanced getaway or late-notice request!

This marks Reed's first visit to the lake house, though I suppose being the the womb a few 4th of Julys ago may count a tiny bit. He more than loved his time there (despite fits of rage when not allowed to jump overboard into the "WAAAAAATER!!!"). Cousin Scott showed him the wake-boarding ropes surely in his future, Cousin Ben provided many creatures to study- snails, grasshoppers, crickets in the baby pool and the like. And Cousin Anna was the perfect match of wills for His Highness, too-those two were quite a competitive pair, but can both get by with their ways due to extreme cuteness ;).

Dave provided "humor" per usual, Leigh her excellent hostess skills, and 'Papa Doc' and Nana Anelle much generosity and patience for letting us, even more Havenars, add to the mix. What a perfect way to cap of a wonderful summer!

See "ya'll" next year ;)!

frings for all!

2009-07-06T13:43:00.002-06:00

A quick pic of this "meal" that we allowed Reed to indulge in. After a long weekend of our friends' wedding events, we were pooped and a bit hungover to be honest, so we headed to The Cherry Cricket. Delicious "Frings", fries/onion rings, or shall we just say basket full o' fried goodness. We ordered as soon as the waitress could breathe her hello, and all dove in immediately after they hit the table, who wouldn't? Sometimes you just need a Sunday afternoon of good-tasting/bad-for-you food and to ignore the responsible/nutrition-conscience parent voice in your head, or at least that's the justification I give myself. Reed didn't object, that's for sure.

2009-07-05T09:57:00.000-06:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Celebrating my boys...

2009-06-23T16:16:00.011-06:00

Despite not posting any of them since almost two months ago, you can bet that I have been taking pictures galore! This post is a tribute to my wonderful boys, how lucky I really am to have them around!

#1 Tuck Dog:
We celebrated Tucker's 5th birthday earlier this month, can't believe he's getting "up there" in those doggie years! Check out his 'party': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fFykcNnzkI

#2 The Hubby:
Another five-year milestone was celebrated as Steve and I have now officially be married half of a decade (but together for more than a decade, I KNEW it seemed much longer than 5 ;)). We had a short-yet-perfect getaway to Fort Collins, a favorite spot of ours that is part of so many of our 'early day' memories. We stayed in Old Town and biked to a few brewerey tastings, along a creek trail, through campus, and more. We indulged in our favorite locat "eats" and can't wait to return again, or maybe even move up there someday...who knows?!

#3 The Daddies
After our anniversary getaway, we headed down to CSprings to celebrate the wonderfulness of Steve and my dad, two fathers who really couldn't be better dads. We were able to stay with Steve's mom and visit the gravesites of his late brother and dad, an important day to remember them as well. Coleman beef and "the fixings" made for a delicious Sunday meal, too!

#4 Reedo, of course
My summers "off" have taken on a new meaning since having Reed. While my summer days used to consist of errands, naps, NetFlix, long vacations to far-away destinations, and much pool time, now they are all about my bonding with my boy. And I LOVE it! We go on countless outings, but have officially dedicated Tuesdays and our 'field trip' day, our "Terrific Tuesday", where we gather with other mamas and their kids and have some summer fun! Last week was the Denver Botanic Gardens and today was the Colorado Train Museum. Reed has loved both adventures, and I have adored our time together. I love this age! (19months and counting!)

So many great boys in my life, all worthy of much celebration. *smiles*

Spring has Spring...maybe

2009-05-03T11:09:00.004-06:00

So much mixed up weather in these here parts, per usual! A few quick pics of Reed and his daily outside play, and one of him longing to be outside in the spring snow a mere week ago.

Happy Easter!!!

2009-04-28T00:18:00.001-06:00

oh no, my hat...

2009-04-18T09:52:00.005-06:00

Click on the words above, "oh no, my hat" for a little clip of Reed on the beach...happy upcoming summer to all!!!

SB in SB

2009-04-17T13:38:00.005-06:00

We recently spent Spring Break in Santa Barbara, a great but too-short (isn't that always the case?) vacation.

Our friend Troy was a very generous host, putting all of us up in his amazing renovated home that he should be very proud of putting so much work into. We stayed in most nights, grilling out in the lush backyard, sipping wine, and eating waaaaay too much food, but that's what vacations are for, right?

Steve spent his morning surfing, as he always does when we go to the beach, and Brooke joined the three of us which was fun for me as we were able to get in some shopping. Reed enjoyed her company as well and we appreciated her help with the wild man! She calls him "Bubby" from time to time and during the trip he adopted that as his nickname for her, so sweet and funny...looks like it just may stick as her 'aunty name' :).

My cousin, Kathy, and her husband Tim came up for a bit from nearby San Luis Obispo. They are expecting twin boys come summer...hooray!...so it was nice to relax with them before their boys make their debut!

Posting some pictures and a little video clip of Reed as well. Hoping to make every spring break a beach vaca, but that may be a little greedy to bank on :)!!!

p.s. he kept going over to the girls laying out, eventually laying down with them...whatta flirt ;)

Mr. Show Off (or shall I say, "Like Father, Like Son" :)

2009-03-15T20:46:00.008-06:00

A little clip of our cute show-off. I think Reed is letting his "Mr. Fantastic" superhero nickname get to his head! No ego-boost needed here, I wish I was as excited as he was when I saw my reflection...haha :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QPPenaPiA-4&feature=related

Christmas 2008...a bit late :)

2009-03-10T20:40:00.000-06:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Hawaii Gone By

2009-02-22T11:59:00.005-07:00

Quick posting to say that, due to the sadness that came around the holidays, I never got around to posting the great times with family and friends that were also a part of those month. Fact is that this year I was thankful for those cherished times more than ever before! Since winter is almost behind us (though never really the case until June around Colorado, I suppose!), I thought I'd put up a few pics from the end of '08 archives.

Thanksgiving week was paradise in Hawaii on the island of Kauai. We had never been and now definitly would love to return if future funds ever allow :). We spent this time with my family and friends of ours, Ryan and Kristen. Highlights other than the perfect beaches included a delicious Turkey Day feast at sunset and an adventurous helicopter ride that was an experience like no other. Such incredible "up close and personal" scenery! I would certainly go again if given the opportunity.

Christmas was in Colorado this year and spent with my mom's side of the family, Casey Cousins and Aunt Donna and Uncle Mick made the treck from South Dakota this year. We had a relaxing time, sang the usual carols at church on Cmas Eve and watched the tearful Marley and Me on Christmas Day. Great food, too many homemade cookies, and a bag full of unneeded though appreciated gifts to take home. Reed had a successful visit with Santa, too, as he has no problem being buddies with the boys/men but screams in fear around new women...maybe it will stay that way and he will stay with us forever, no intereste in pursuing the ladies. Be careful what I wish for, I know :)

Now that I have updated you on last year's TGiving and Christmas, hope your Valentine's Day was a happy one and here's to a great St. Patrick's Day (and March Madness!) ahead. (so confusing!)

a face only a mama could love?

2009-02-04T09:24:00.003-07:00

Reedo had some "runny eye" as reported by his nanny yesterday. I was out last night and didn't get to survey the situation, but knew something definitely took its course when I went to get my sweet boy out of his crib this morning! Here is a nasty shot of the poor thing...pretty crusted up. Yummy. Don't ya just want to kiss this face? Hee hee. An insta-bath helped him see once more and put him in great spirits, himself once again. He is now napping and most likely accumulating more....we shall see :)

Whatta Day

2009-01-21T19:52:00.005-07:00

I woke up groggy this morning after going to bed later than usual due to parent-teacher conferences. We had to wake Reed up to get him ready for day care, he usually wakes on his own...we would have all rather slept in on this Wednesday! Tired and cranky (both of us), wouldn't eat breakfast and whiny through diaper/clothing change (just him :)). Finally R headed out the door with dad. Scrambled to get myself ready next, after sweeping all the various foods that had been spit onto the floor, also finally headed out the door as well. Almost to school, got a call from his nanny that the lil' one was sick and we may need to get him. Half a day later in the astonishingly-corrupt school I get to call my work environment, I finally get "outta there" and back to my increasingly sick tot. A few smiles outside in the warm sun and cuddles with dad before the tone of the day rears its ugliness again. Dinner is a battle...food trial-and-error pulled out of fridge and pantry. All spit on floor again (with the exception of applesauce). Dip the cranky child in warm bath after letting the room 'steam' a bit while he cries because of being put down momentarily and, ahh, finally a few minutes of relief. Cold/warm shakes, get him out, screams pathetically ('sick scream', about half of usual volume). Dad leaves for basketball. Bottle, medicine, footed football pj's (he says "ball" in agreement to these), and time for books. We are both exhausted. Lights out. Throws up ALL over us. I want to cry. He does cry. Clean up (again) and plop in chair, even more exhausted, about to reach for book. On my lap, he curls his body to the side, folds his hands like he is praying (maybe he knows I need one right now :)), and falls into a deep, snorty-'cuz-congested, sleep. I do cry. Despite all, he is my release of the bleak and a reminder of the sweet. My purpose and perspective. Whatta Day :).

"Cancer Sucks"

2009-01-05T16:12:00.006-07:00

My blog won't always be about death, I swear it, but unfortunately it has gone in that direction as of late. Unjustly so, five young lives of amazing people I have known over the years have been taken from them over the last month and a half.

Megan, who I wrote about more in my last entry, passed away yesterday afternoon and will forever be missed and still the laughs continue as all who have known her, even if briefly, surely have a funny "McBride story". One that I remember that made me smile today was when Megan was riding on Alex's back on the way back home from a formal. He was scolding her for being so dumb to wear such uncomfortable shoes and she was firing back at him not to be such a jerk, he back at her threatening to drop her if she didn't stop talking, she back at him...all very "sober" and rational conversation . They ended up smooching on the porch as if none of the previous had taken place which I found to be hilarious, odd, and just cute. Years later, they were married and who would have known that just years after that, when they had wanted to start a family, instead she would lose her battle to cancer at the age of 31. "Cancer sucks".

This blunt catch-phrase adorned the buttons that her sister Sara passed out for us to wear in Chicago for a walk in her honor last spring. Her dad, from what I have been told, has continued to wear it ever since, can you imagine having to go through this with a child?

Please keep this special family in your thoughts and prayers as they now face a new, daunting life without their Megan. Fight, too, for a cure to this nasty disease for all who have been affected by it in some way (and that, unfortunately, is probably all of us) and for all who hopefully can be prevented from its curse in the future.

Peace, Love, and Happier Times in '09.

(Off to suffocate Reed with hugs again....poor unknowing little man :))

Continued...

2009-01-01T17:32:00.015-07:00

My last entry was entitled "When Bad Things Happen to Good People", and, unfortunately, this entry applies to that heading as well so I just gave it a "continued..." label.

This is an appeal to those of you who pray, send good karma vibes, or simply wish happy thoughts for the new year upon others to please add a special girl to you list.

A pledge sister of mine, Megan McBride Franz, was diagnosed with StageV cancer less than a year ago. At the vibrant (and if you ever met her- even once- she gives a new meaning to "vibrant"!), young age of 30, she was given the news nobody wants to hear in their lifetime. Since then, she has endured and fought with all her heart and strength, the uphill battle of her cancer.

Though I haven't kept in touch with Megan much since our college years, I was able to see her last spring when many of us gathered for a race in her honor in Chicago, organized by her passionate and dedicated sister Sara. I was overwhelmed then, and continue to increasingly be, by the love, support, and numbers that surrounds her, all of which simply come up short in being able to help her defeat this nasty disease.

So, although these last postings haven't exactly brought holiday cheer, it is where I am at in my thinking process as of late! While contemplating the unfairness of such stories, I find myself feeling helpless, frustrated, and sad as you know from these postings. I also, though, have held close the happiness, spontaneity, and love in each and every day more so than before. I hug my Reedo a bit tighter, laugh a bit more than I scowl at Steve's inappropriate humor :), and try my best to put the "little things", good and bad, into perspective, ultimate goal of course to focus on the positive and let the negative drift away!

Please take this new year ahead and do what you want with it, make it what you really want. Have you put off that vacation with your family? Not sat down with your grandparents for as long as they'd like? Any friends from the days of old you would like to head down memory lane with again? Job change? Need to exercise more or eat better? Take on each day as if it's one of your last. Easier said than done, yes, but even a handful of such days would be a great addition to any new year!

I am truly hopeful that the year ahead brings a life perspective you may not have had and new happiness, big or small. May you spread this good to others, reaching out however you may be able to. And, please send your good thoughts Megan's way in hopes that she has peace in her days, each one now savored, at home with her family.

You can follow her baffling journey at:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/meganfranz

p.s. Megan is the ULTIMATE Jayhawk fan, nothing compared to us Gugats even. She rode Danny Manning's shoulders throughout basketball camp in her very young days, her blood true crimson and blue since her Kansas-roots birth. We dedicate last night's win and 2008's "Year of the Jayhawk" to her as she has cheered her team on to many victories whole-heartedly no matter how horrible she's felt physically.

Happy 2009 to you readers and here's to brighter days and entries to come.

When Bad Things Happen to Good People

2008-12-05T15:00:00.006-07:00

When hearing the horrific news that an amazing family of four died on Thanksgiving night, I felt numb and confused. A flood of memories rushed through me. All the "little things" that I had shared with this sweet bunch over the years came to me and it seemed too much to handle. All four of them. Gone. Forever. Good People. GREAT people. Why? Then I felt guilty, thinking that if I felt this overtaken with sadness, what about their families? How were they even waking up to this reality each day? How do they go on? A preventable death and, just like that, all short lives come to a tragic, unforeseeable end.

At the funeral-for-four that all in attendance never would have imagined or predicted, the priest addressed what we were all thinking, "why do bad things happen to good people?", which happens to be a book, and not surprising as prople everyone has had at least one unfortuate experience in their lifetime when they have contemplated this. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/When_Bad_Things_Happen_to_Good_People).

He explained that the author, a rabbi, tackles this impossible-to-answer question only to conclude "I don't know". The priest agreed that there just isn't an explanation for such a travesty, not even a well-versed, biblical, God's Will one that is is 'job' to share with us. He went on to say that anyone who tries to comfort with words that ring more like shallow catch-phrases, despite well-intentions, should know that, no, it's just not okay. "Everything happens for a reason", "The Lord works in mysterious ways", "God loved this family so much that he took them early to be with him"...no, none of these are acceptable here. The deaths of an entire young family is simply not okay and it never will be.

And so an emptiness is left in many hearts as this family touched many, many lives. Some family members, I imagine their surviving siblings and parents. one who just lost his wife mere months ago for example, and now his daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren all in one Thanksgiving Night swoop, will never be okay.

Knowing that this isn't right, that people like Parker, Caroline, Owen, and Sophie will never be replaced, that this situation is unfair and cruel, we can take that hard truth and do what we wish with it. The questioning, blaming, and what-never-could-be's will, realistically, always lurk. But, one can take such tragic loss and, though never make sense of it, try to make a little good out of a lot of bad. I will never know why bad things happen to good people, and I will forever want this priceless family back, but this much I know is true:

1) Caroline, the awesome mother of these awesome kids was always prepared. Organized, packed, safety first, over supplied, check-lists complete, healthy food and lifestyle, preventative measures always taken. As one of her good friends put it, this sneaky, silent, odorless, undetectable killer was the only thing that could have taken her and her family because she'd already been prepared and cautionary of everything else. We all wish she'd had this and if she'd ever heard a story like this before, she would have been equipped, that was Caroline.

$10.99 for a portable detector, bring it with you wherever you may travel and after you get yourself one, get your friends and family one for Christmas then spread the word to all: http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.acorn-online.com%2Fjoomla15%2Findex.php%3Foption%3Dcom_content%26view%3Darticle%26id%3D15600%3Acarbon-monoxide-silent-killer-westonites-family-members-die-in-a-co-poisoning-tragedy%26catid%3D55%3Aweston-local%26Itemid%3D112&h=16eb06476e56d4d13513617488b47496

2) Along the same lines, I want to share some of the laws that their amazingly active families are already trying to pass, the least we can do is stay abreast on them if not support them in a more significant way:

The Lofgren Family Home Safety Act: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/news/2008/dec/10/family-friends-urge-passage-carbon-monoxide-legisl/

And another that I don't have a link to just yet, is "50 before 50" where all states would have the co detector requirements in place before Caroline, the mother, would have turned fifty.

3) We can all learn how to better ourselves from the good of those that surround us. This family shared their blessings with those around them. They were not only instant and genuine friends to those they knew but they were very actively involved in their community, reaching out to others as well. Soon, I will be posting organizations that they were generously a part of so that those of us who can and choose to do so can help continue their work out.

I miss you, Lofgrens, and not a day goes by that I don't think about you and wish for you back. Thank you for the memories that I always will have, though...especially of you two, Owie and Soph! Love you little angels :)

Our Baby Turns ONE!

2008-11-15T13:18:00.014-07:00

A year like no other...

In my last post, I talked about all the things that made this year so extraordinary to me, highlighting the victorious Jayhawks and historical and inspiring presidential election. Now for the most special part of this year, of course, and that is our son Reed....aka Mr. Fantastic. A very happy first year to you, little man!

So I am writing this a bit late and fudging on the entry date to hide my procrastination a bit. I have been thinking of all the great things there are to say about our sweet baby, now active toddler but always a baby to me, and I could really bore you with a super long entry but will just sum it all up in my "Top 12". Why twelve? Well, because he was born on November 12th, he is now officially twelve months old, and I have had "The Twelve Days of Christmas" in my head since hearing it on the radio recently. For all these reasons, I deemed this the magic number to go with...

Twelve Thoughts on Mr. Fantastic's First Year:

1) love those bright, piercing blue eyes that people often comment on...they are like no other and will be a hit with the ladies one day (oh no! :))

2) his distinct monkey screech is a vivid first year memory of mine, though hasn't let itself out in months and for that I am very thankful for this

3) fire and water seem to be Reed's "elements", definitely a water baby and loves all things that have to do with this...bath, pool, ocean, hose, sprinkler, shower w/ mom or dad, Tucker's water bowl, etc.. And the fire is in his wild eyes and constant energy. This he gets from Daddy :)

4) Besides streams of "mamamama", and "dadadada" that he used interchangeably, Reed's first words were "No" and "Tucker" which we find amusing as that is mostly what he heard from us over the course of his life thus far. He often intentionally prompts the "No!" from us by doing something he knows he is not supposed to, with a naughty smile of course.

5) Nothing sweeter than his affectionate "wrestling" with Dad...the "come and get me AGAIN" tackle is priceless

6) Mr. Fantastic has been a very proficient sleeper and eater from Day One. For this, we are so so lucky. I am already anticipating his future sibling will not be so. Oh well...fair's fair, right? :)

7) Reed loves strangers. There is a lesson to be learned in this, I know, but for now it is darling to see him approach anyone he can get his speedy self to in public and grace them with his schmoozing laugh as if all the people in the world share an inside joke with him.

8) Humor. This kid is funny in his babble and over-expression and I can't wait to hear what all he has to say once he talks more...this could come back to haunt me so don't quote me on this in the future, please :)

9) While he has grown in to those big feet and hands for the most part, they still remain his cute and quirky signature to me.

10) As crazy and on-the-go as Reeders is, he will sit still and completely focus when being read to. It is sweet and interesting to see this total absorption and I always wonder what he is thinking as he studies the pages and listens to our words.

11) Many now teach their kids sign language and so I went with the trend and focused on a few "words". Amazed at how they just came to him, right around his first bday to the day. His few signs are still cute and oh-so-genious to me :)

12) "Sweets for the Sweet"...Reed's (main, there are a few!) nickname is "Sweet Bo", don't know where I got it from, but that's how nicknames just go sometimes. Anyhow, our Sweet Bo LOVED his birthday sweets and we (okay, I) took would would have been two film's woth in the 'old' days, of him devouring his birthday cake. I know we all do this for our baby's first birthdays, but I still found it thrilling. He even licked the plate at the end! He also ate up all the attention from guests, happily smiling along to his birthday song...his crazy mother even made the guests sing to him twice. Such a "Stage Mom" :)

As you know, my list could go on and on but I am sure you'd agree that it has enough already :).
We had a great celebration of family and friends for Reed's 1st and went to dinner at Red Robin on his actual day, too, and I am including pics of both. Spoiled little one...must be the first (and currently only) child.

Happy First Year, Mr. Fantastic!

"Barack Chalk, Jayhawk"...yep, you read that right

2008-11-11T09:34:00.014-07:00

Well, we really did it this year. And by "we" I mean those dear to me who I have been cheering on with all the heart and spirit I have, my Jayhawks and Barack, of course!

For those of you who have had your fill of my political postings and emails, I get it. I can only swallow so much from "the other side", too :), but I assure you this is the last for a long while...wait, have I said that before? I promise this time, really, but it has been one of the most memorable years of my life...The Year of The Jayhawk+Obama '08= "Barack Chalk Jayhawk", of course. (And yes, not to be forgotten, the wonderful year of Mr. Fantastic as well...but I will save my entire next entry to his greatness as his birthday is nearing).

"Barack Chalk Jayhawk" was coined by a witty, or several clever, KU fans and I loved it immediately, as I am sure all who love both the 'Hawks and Obama do, too. Let me begin by admitting that we can be fanatic fans...a tad obnoxious even...and tend to integrate all other things we know and love into KU. For example, a long while back one St. Patrick's Day I was wearing my bright green "Shamrock Jayhawk" shirt to watch a March Madness game. A friend asked me out of true curiosity and jokes aside, "what does St. Patty's Day have to do with Kansas?", he went on, "I know the Notre Dame Irish significance, but explain to me KU's". Ummm, well, let's see, hmmm...we like celebrating St. Patrick's day as most do and also love our Jayhawks, so it seems totally normal to send it to the tee printing press, right? And so it was with the Barack Chalk slogan....gotta love (or loathe, depending on your take) the spirit of it all.

And so it went that the year brought Lawrence Lovers an Orange Bowl football win and the NCAA Basketball Title. And then more recently some of those same Larry L-er's welcomed the historical, memorable, heart-strings-a-pullin' victory of our new president, Barack Obama. (btw, we usually celebrate our 'crimson and blue' but cheered on the blue while that electoral map was turning one or the other, next time the rest of Kansas will hopefully join the spirit of things in color!). Barack even addressed us fanatics in a crowd at a rally a few months back, recognising "So you all must be those 'Barack Chalk, Jayhawks' I have been hearing about?". Yes, and like our shamrock shirts and numerous other examples of such, the connection seems so natural yet again.

Seeing that all major events that we hold close to us have gone our way this year, my fellow Barack Chalk Jayhawkers, let's bask in all the glory while we can as many more 'seasons' are around the corner and I am thinking I'll never know again a year quite like this!

(and until then, I will be keeping my tribute to Obama song playing on this blog and both my 'obama mama' and ncaa tourney tees worn frequently :)).

Week-O-Excitement

2008-10-31T08:01:00.011-06:00

Week-o-excitement.

With super warm temperatures this week, Reed and I have been outside even more than usual, as if we have been given a second shot at summer these last few days. We went to the Denver Aquarium on Wednesday which he found a bit scary until he got used to the idea of hundreds of fish seemingly swimming all around him, and he really enjoyed the zoo yesterday (especially the carousel, I wish I'd had our video camera!). We wore shorts, basked in the sun and piles of leaves, gawked at the intriguing animals, shared a meal at the outdoor cafe's picnic table, and walked until the last possible pre-nap minute and it really was the perfect reminder of how much I love this "mom thing".

We are so excited to celebrate Reed's first Halloween tonight. We are headed to my parent's house in Colorado Springs as they have a big "to do" downtown near their house on the historical Tejon Street. Of course Reed doesn't 'get it' quite yet, but we are taking advantage of the warm weather (a Colorado Halloween rarity!) and having some fun people-watching of our own. The question of what costume to come up with always lurks, but I have a few more hours to figure it out :)

Tomorrow morning, we will be meeting our new niece, Megan Havenar. Her addition to the family makes for FOURTEEN cousins on Steve's side! Reed remains the one-and-only on my side, so he gets the best of both worlds....big family/hand-me-downs and spoiled-only-grandchild! And, tomorrow night is our annual "Urban Friends Thanksgiving" where we stuff ourselves full of turkey and all the fixings with our good Denver friends. With so many busy schedules, it came very early this year!

SUNDAY is Steve's birthday and he will be celebrating with Reed for most of the day as I have a friend's baby shower and another friend's book signing (check out: http://www.mucumbermcgee.com/) but we will do something special for him come evening. So much to celebrate!

FINALLY, as if the week isn't packed-full and exciting enough, the BIG election is around the corner, mere days away. I have never been so anxious and passionate for an election before (as most would agree, sans the Kennedy election which also brought much interest but of course my great presence had yet to arrive :)). Being raised in a "house divided" when it came to politics, I am thankful that I have always been fully informed and introduced to both 'sides', thus forming my own opinions instead of merely adapting those of my parents, peers, or church (though I am not saying that these aspects didn't have part in shaping my views). Believe it or not, I was even registerd as an independent until recently...yes, it's true! As a teacher, I feel the need/want/duty to advocate for education and "the kids". That is where I am coming from when I enter the booth and how amazing that each and every one of us has their own specific "reasons" for voting. However, I admit to already dressing Reed in "Babies for Barack" gear, taking him to a rally and debate party or tow, and so am not really sure that he will be receiving a bi-partisan perspective here at home, though I have a few years to think about this :).
No matter what your political views or interests are, the most important thing of course is that you exercise your right to vote, a privilege so many have fought hard for. Not to be too "teacher like", but this is my soap box message: Be fully informed when you vote, know why you are voting for who you are voting for...what's important to you?...and GET OUT THERE! And, God- willing, may whoever 'wins' turn this country around as there is quite a mess to clean up. I am confident that either candidate will only improve our state of affairs and, in that, we all 'win'!!!

Off to prepare for the fun ahead...Have a GREAT HALLOWEEN!!!

2008-10-24T12:02:00.002-06:00

Well, it's been a LONG time since I have posted. I am in the process of transferring posts from Reed's site on www.babysites.com so that I will have those entries when my membership there expires! (Trying to budget a bit better these days since I am now earning half a paycheck :)).

I love this season so much! Fall is just the best. I attribute my obsession with this time of the year to my October birthday roots but maybe all love the change of foilage, crisp air, and seasonal flavors like pumpkin, butternut squash, apples at their prime and more. I could smell my spice candles and pumpkin crumb cake all year-round and probably still adore it, though maybe then it would lose some of it's luster. And the around-the-corner holidays add that much more excitement, too, especially with the seemingly earlier than usual store/shopping preparations. I could have picked up my Christmas lights along with my Halloween candy when shopping for my students back-to-school goods this year, I swear!

On the 16th, had a great 32nd (Lord, where has the time gone?) birthday, Steven's 33rd is around the corner, and Reed, too, will be a year old within the next few weeks (again, where has that time gone!?). Needless to say, we are having some busy fun around here.

I posted a few pictures from our neighborhood pumpkin patch and hope to post video of our new walker, too! Mere days until the BIG election, Halloween w/Reeders before that, and Thanksgiving in Kauai for us this year, too...our first time visiting the islands. So, much more to come and thanks for checking in on our family-o-three. Hope to be better about this blog thing in the months to come!

Until then, enjoy this October greatness :)

1st Valentine's Day with baby...

2008-02-14T09:49:00.001-07:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

TONIGHT:
Since Steve LOVES this holiday and is forever romancing me, we are headed out for a 'real date' tonight...sans Reeders. My generous friend Caroline has offered to watch the little man...and she has twins of her own, too! She is super woman and can handle it, though, so we are granting her the honor of being Reed's first (non-family) sitter. Hope he is perfecto!

GRADUATIONS:
They say the first three months of life is considered "the fourth trimester". We are proud to have made it through with as much ease as could ever be expected, thanks to our 'easy' baby. Heading into his 4th month now, Reed has officially graduated from two 'baby things' as of late...

His small, portable bed that he slept by us in no longer fits his long legs. So, last night was his VERY FIRST night in his 'big boy crib' and I was kind of sad to have him across the hall instead of by my side (I admit to not liking change, being much attached and what am I going to do when I go back to work...yikes :)?!). He passed the change with flying colors...perfect baby!
Newborn diapers. Steve being the frugal (not cheap, no :)) man that he is, and with my hating to waste, we were determined to use all our newborn diapers before moving on to "Size 1". They were still fitting okay, though a bit short, so we had some "poop outs" (ah, all the little details new parents feel they must share). We didn't waste a one and the tall man is now in that next size...

bigger diapers, bigger bed, and still a' growin'...as is our love for him every day.
We adore our little Valentine...happy February 14th!

(More oh-so-thrilling changes coming soon. ;))

Two Months Young

2008-01-12T13:14:00.003-07:00

LIFE WITH REED:
Reed has been with us for two months now and I can't believe it still.
Half of me seems amazed at how time has flown and at how much he has grown since November...four inches! It makes me sad each time he grows out of a pair of p.j.'s or cute outfit but I am happy he is still fitting into the newborn sized diapers. I admit I am not good with change and want to freeze time sometimes!
The other half of me, though, thinks that his birth last November seems like AGES ago. Being pregnant seems like years ago, really! It is as if someone re-programmed my brain the day he was born and my life before Reed seems so very distant. Our lives now with him in our family, I will say, is better than anything I have known.
People told us that it is amazing how much you love something so much from the very second your baby arrives. For us, we were kind of stupefied those first few days. Thought Reed was great and cute, but everything seemed a bit surreal. Each day since, though, our love grows and we can't imagine loving anything more than we do him. When he falls asleep on my chest (which he can maintain for hours...I love it!), I tell myself I could stay like that for the rest of my life and be happy. I feel like the luckiest person in the world to be Reed's mommy!!!

"THE STATS":
Reed weighed in at almost twelve pounds at measured 24inches (two feet tall...crazy!) at his two month appt.. He is in the 94th percentile for height and 50th for weight...a Gugat! He looks just like the Gugats, too, and since he looks like mom, Steve is hoping at least his athletic skills will take after dad!

MATERNITY LEAVE:
The turn of the new year meant no more money for me :). I knew this when I picked my return date just after Reed was born and, for me, it is well worth the time I spend with him in these first few months of life. I will be going back to work at the end of February and am going to like the "adult contact" and being busy again but am not looking forward to leaving the little guy behind. Brooke is going to watch him for those first few days and we have yet to decide who does after that, though have a few centers...one near Steve's work and another at-home childcare near our home...in mind. If any of you want to cuddle with this cute bundle full-time for two and a half months (until I have summer break), please add yourself to our interview list :)

SKI SEASON:
Steve is skiing as much as possible, per usual, as the snow is better than it has been in years (so he says). We have some weekend trips to Vail planned in the next months which we are all looking forward to.

Happy Valentine's Day coming up!

Happy 2008!!!

2008-01-04T13:13:00.000-07:00

Our first New Year's Eve with baby and we actually managed to go out for a little adult fun...Steve and I took "shifts". Reed rang the new year in with his mom and Aunt B.. Everyday life at home is going super as well...many kisses and photo sessions fill our days!

Updated pictures and journaling coming as soon as I organize my post-holiday life :). I have included some holiday photos...he met SO many cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends. What a lucky little man to be so loved!

Hope your early '08 has been great! So far, ours has with an AWESOME Jayhawk Orange Bowl win...and basketball is still ahead (hence the Jayhawk outfit shot). Go KU!!!!

Home for the Holidays...

2007-12-14T13:12:00.000-07:00

Well, it is beginning to look a lot like Christmas and we are excited to be spending our first with Mr. Reed. He is the daily love of our lives and so perfect and cute in every way (really, we aren't bias at all :)).
I am "home for the holidays"....on maternity leave until February. Around here, eating, sleeping, and dirtying diapers are what Reed does best. We are getting better at breastfeeding every day and he lets us sleep for hours at a time each night....usually more than a four hour stretch...which we are VERY thankful for.
Looking forward to spending time with Cara's family in Rapid City and the "Havenar Christmas" in Colorado Springs for the upcoming holidays. Aunt Paige will be meeting Reed for the first time then, as will many of his cousins from Texas, Utah, and South Dakota.
Can't wait to hear your updates in those cards coming soon...Happy December!

2007-11-12T12:55:00.000-07:00

Just in time for the holidays...Happy Thanksgiving coming soon!
Reed Richard Havenar joined us just before midnight on November 12th. He is doing great and we were so excited to finally meet him!

Labor and Delivery...oh my!

2007-11-11T13:10:00.000-07:00

The moment I have NOT been waiting for!
Those of you who know me know that I have been fearing labor for most of my life :). I am proud to say that I did it and it wasn't nearly as horrid as I imagined. For those of you imagining the worst like I did, you are in for a positive surprise because it can be done and even enjoyed!
For those of you wanting the details (don't worry, I won't get graphic unless you ask me to later), here is how our story goes...
SUNDAY DINNER AND BABY PREP:
I insisted Steve go on another date night with me as we were running out of "free time" pre-baby and all. We went for some pizza nearby. When we got home, I wrote my maternity sub a long list of plans, to-do's, whatnot, sent my parents information on how to get to the hospital and nearby hotels, and also inquired with some friends about day cares. Little did I know my water would break that night...I must have been "nesting" without knowing it.!
EARLY A.M....WATER BROKE?:
My water broke at 3:30 in the morning. Though, I wasn't quite sure that that was the case...I assumed it was a missed bathroom run as I was in a deep sleep and those frequent bathroom visits happen every hour it seems like towards the end of pregnancy! So, I went back to sleep and more water came at around 6am, maybe some in between that I slept through- who knows? Steve was getting ready for work and I told him I thought it could be water but still wasn't convinced. Lucky for me, it was Veteran's Day, so I had the morning to figure it out instead of having to get myself to work as I had the day off. I had a doctor's appt. that afternoon, but called to move it to the morning. I got there at 8:30am and I had two more water pocket episodes on the way there...lovely, I know!
CONFIRMED:
The doctor thought it was funny that I was so unsure about my water...it's not like I have done this before! She tested the fluid with a paper strip and it was confirmed...baby was on the way! I felt nothing as far as contractions or pain, so asked if I could go home instead of downstairs to check-in. I called Steve to meet me there and I did laundry, sub plans for the week, last minute packing, and we stopped to get some snacks all before checking in to the hospital finally around noon. Still, I felt absolutely nothing (except small water releases here and there :)).
SETTLING IN:
Checked in, gowned, and ready to have a baby...they told me the goal was 24 hours from my water breaking so I knew he or she was supposed to arrive before 3:30 am. Surprise!...My mother-in-law and parents showed up in the room just after we arrived despite us telling both of them that we would call when progress had been made. They assumed it would be super fast as their deliveries were. We let them stay for a bit, then kicked 'em out and told them we'd call when push-time came :)
"GO TIME":
Contractions...finally feeling something!...came around 1:30 and were very mild. I requested and received that epidural as soon as they hurt enough where I didn't want to talk anymore. Ahhh...so nice. We watched movies and napped once the meds kicked in. They wore off, I was given more, and then they wore off to where I was feeling my contractions again. I asked for more as I felt them pretty heavily, but they said no-go as baby's head was on it's way...."Don't PANIC" I kept saying to myself. I can honestly say that pushing through the contractions, against the pain, was easier than 'calmly' breathing through them that first part. I only pushed for 45 minutes...it was tiring, but not overwhelmingly painful.
IT'S A BOY!!!:
This is the moment we waited for. I am so, so glad we didn't find out the gender of our baby for that one second where they hold baby up and proclaimed "It's a boy!". We did it the old-fashioned way and love it. I also believe it got me through that pushing better than if I'd known! Had the parents in the family waiting room and recorded their reaction. It was so great. We had three names picked out and truely didn't chose until the moment we met him...we had been indecisive up to that point! Steve let me chose the name (I think his generosity kicked in after witnessing the labor thing I'd just gone through :)).
BABY REED:
Reed Richard (Richard is my dad's name, Steve's middle name, and his dad's middle name) arrived just before midnight. Steve's dad had his first baby (a boy) ten days after his birthday and we had Reed ten days after Steve's birthday. I pushed extra hard those last minutes to have him on the 12th instead of the 13th...it worked :). I slept maybe two hours that night and was full of energy the next day, too. Adrenain! Brooke arrived from Chicago as did other visitors...we were (and are) so excited for him to meet our family and friends!

The wait was over and our perfect little boy was now part of our family. I can't think of a happier day in all my life. The BEST!

Final entry before baby!

2007-11-09T13:08:00.000-07:00

So this is the month that baby is due. Where did the time go? The showers, nursery prep, and baby classes have made things more realistic, but turning that calendar was really that "Ready or not, here it comes!" moment for me :)

BIRTHDAYS:
Steve and I recently celebrated our nice and relaxed birthdays together. For mine, Steve made an AMAZING dinner that took him hours to prepare. Better and more romantic than any restaurant. I was very, very impressed and loved the special night he put together. His birthday was mellow, as he always wants it to be, and we had presents and his favorite cake here before he went out for some last "boys nights" before baby comes.

BABY CLASSES:
We are done with our baby classes as a couple (Steve still had "Daddy Boot Camp" coming up which he may or may not attend if baby comes a few days early as it is close to our due date). Having always been afraid of my future labor, it was actually a relief to take these classes and I feel somewhat better (though not excited by any means!) to go through it all. The challenges of the pain, possible complications, post-partum "stuff", breastfeeding, lack of sleep, etc., will just come as they do so it was nice to receive some information and tips about it all. Also comforting to meet other couples who will be taking this 'baby thing' on for the first time, too!

THANKSGIVING EARLY:
We celebrated 4th Annual Friends Thanksgiving yesterday. I feel a sense of relief that we were able to enjoy our Turkey Day fixings as we may be in the hospital (perhaps pushing baby :)) when the holiday comes. It's all about food these days! The "three F's"...food, friends, and football (GO KU, by the way!!!), made for a perfect night. A tradition I love and am very thankful for! :)

NURSERY:
Nursery update is that all is organized, painted, and prepped with the exception of the gender specific items to come :). Wall letters and girly or boyish bedding (both picked out and ready to arrive when "it" does :)) will be added when we know what Baby Havenar will be! Can't wait for that part of it! We are really appreciating the fact that we didn't find out the sex as it is helping me get through this last bit of pregnancy and our curiosity is increasing. Send those predictions my way if you haven't already (gender and date)!

LAST NOTES UNTIL BABY IS HERE:
I am sleeping well, though not completely comfortably, and my only big complaint is the heartburn that never goes away (though medicine helps most of it). After those first months of sickness, I really have nothing to gripe about as I remind myself what a miracle this whole process is.
I already know I will miss being pregnant for some reasons...like the special kicks, rolling around, and hiccups that I can lay back and feel through my tummy. The relaxing, thinking, talking, and family-of-three time (Tuck is included, of course :)) that we know and love will also be missed.
I also know, though, that once baby does come, we won't want to imagine our lives any other way (minus the lack of sleep part, that is:)), and we really are so excited for this life change to occur.
Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers (may I specifically request a "hope Cara as an easy, easy labor prayer"?...to be added to the "healthy baby" prayer, of course :)). We will contact you all as soon as he or she arrives. Until then, thanks for reading up on us along the way...whether you have wanted to or have felt obligated as a good family member or friend :).
We appreciate and love you all!

Work Shower

2007-10-20T13:08:00.000-06:00

I was so lucky to have three great showers...spoiled!
Christine Loehr hosted the Rose Hill Elementary shower at her great house near old town. It was perfect and thank you to everyone who helped with the food and beverage (part of why people stayed so long!). This was my "five hour shower" which flew by as does time when you are having so much fun!
So many generous and nice gifts again. It was so kind of all the teachers, especially some who are new this year and hardly know me, to give the great gifts that they did (and I know firsthand what a teacher's budget is like :)). THANK YOU to everyone!
Steve was able to come by for a while in between work duties, and my mom also came up from Colorado Springs. There were about twenty people in all...some good friends from past Rose Hill years and many current work folks. Such a fun mix!
As it was my last shower, I was able to start the "organizing" process of washing and putting away items, finding the right spots in my little house for everything from big swings to little booties, and just settling in!
THANK YOU again, Rose Hill....I will miss your daily fun and faces in the next months of my maternity leave!

Colorado Springs Shower

2007-10-14T13:07:00.000-06:00

MY WEEKEND:I was in Arizona with my great friends Kate Unger, Noel Dahlby, and Julia Crusius over this Mother's Day weekend. (Happy Mother's Day to Mama Noel... mother to my godson, the fabulous Bjorn, by the way). What a perfect weekend we had at the Ungers resort, The Hermosa Inn! I vow to keep such weekends a part of my life, post-baby, though we'll see if those are famous last words or not! :) MY HUSBAND AND ME:Some friends say that their husbands gave them Mother's Day presents when they were pregnant. In no way did I expect Steve to do this. Not because he isn't thoughtful and good about these things, but we still forget that we aren't going to Mexico anymore in six months! It just isn't totally real to us. I am thinking next Mother's Day it will more than be reality as our lives will be completely (though in a great way) changed.
THE MOMS:For an early Mom's Day gift, we went to The Broadmoor with our moms (shout out to Carol and Brenda) for an awesome brunch. We hadn't told them we were expecting, and gave them "Read to Me Grandma" books to break the news. They (some might say "over") reacted by crying and loudly exclaiming their joy. It was great. My sly dad, though I will never know how, whispered to me before they opened the books that he pretty much knew what was coming. I tried to play it off, but he insisted he knew what was up. I swear I gave no clues that would give this away, but it must be father's intuition. Pretty savvy!
Hope your weekend was a great one, too!Love, Me

What a great weekend!
"The Girls"...Noel, Kate, and Brooke flew in Thursday night for a packed few days.
On Friday morning, we 'spa-ed it' at The Garden of the Gods Club. I treated myself to a massage and mini-facial...a mom-to-be combo 31st birthday present to myself :). We ate lunch downtown, joined by Lindsey and my mom, and then Kate and Noel met up with Julia at her parents Monument home for some hard work!
The baking and slaving away in the kitchen into the wee hours of the night paid off. We snuck in a quick dinner with my parents, but most of the night was dedicated to shower prep....much, much thanks ladies!
Saturday's shower was perfect in every way. Such a classy, memorable morning with great brunch food, beautiful flowers and presentation, and sweet treats for favors to top it off.
So many people from all parts of my life were able to come...childhood friends and parents of my friends, high school buddies, family friends from years past, my in-laws and family, old neighbors, etc.! As great as it was to see everyone, like my wedding, it was hard not to be able to have the one-on-one conversations I'd wanted to have. And I still can't believe all the super generous gifts we received. It was humbling!
Saturday, post-shower, was spent mostly on the couch watching football and "Knocked Up", with the exception of getting ourselves downtown for dinner. Sunday morning we slept in a bit (yeah!), shopped a bit, ate some bar food, and then airport time. SO COLD...Sunday was the first sign of winter, too, which made baby-time seem even closer to me!
In closing to this long entry :), THANK YOU to every guest who was a part of making the day special (Brooke and Sarah extra points for flying in). EXTRA THANKS to Julia, Kate, and Noel for not only your labor, but for your special, very thoughtful gift and every little detail that made this shower unforgettable!

October so far...

2007-10-06T13:05:00.000-06:00

BIG BELLY:
Well, I am as big as hopefully I am going to get as leaning over just isn't as easy as it once was and it is quite a task to roll over on the couch or in bed. Big belly!
CHANGES and PREPARATION:
Luckily, I am still sleeping fine through the night (this will end soon whether it is end of pregnancy or new baby that causes it, I know :)), which is a blessing with this very busy school year. I am trying to get all my "ducks in a row" at school to make the transition smooth for my sub and myself. And also at home...final nursery stages (furniture is finally in, more pictures to come), putting away goodies we have been receiving, and finishing (hopefully!) our little home-construction projects that will seemingly never end.
OUR NANNY!:
Steve and I were so lucky to find a nanny that was willing to accomodate for our odd situation...2 1/2 months starting late February and ending in May when I get out of school. Brooke offered (so nice) to fly out for the first few days I go back to work, and new-nanny Lindsay will take over thereafter. She has a lot of experience, is a mom of a 3month old, and is a former 3rd grade teacher like me...such a relief to have that in place!
STEVE:
Steve is currently in Chile and returning in a few days. So, those who were worried about the possibility of me giving birth this early, looks like we are almost in the clear. He's having a great time there and I am glad he got to experience it since I don't know how doable it would have been post-baby.
SHOWERS, BABY CLASSES, FALL FUN, BIRTH:
Over a month until our due date and we have a packed schedule until then. Almost every weekend is 'booked' with a shower or baby class, in addition to some fun festivities...Friends Thanksgiving, my 31st and Steve's 32nd birthdays and a few Oktoberfest and Halloween parties.
Busy until birth time, that's for sure!

Denver Baby Shower

2007-09-29T13:05:00.000-06:00

DENVER SHOWER:
MANY, MANY thanks to Aimee and Heather who hosted an awesome shower. I knew it would be great with them in charge and with the oh-so-fabulous guest list, but it was even greater than I'd hoped for. The champagne and mimosas were a flowin', the games were creative and non-painful :), the food delicious, cake cute and yummy, fun favors, and the gifts were so adorable and thoughtful! THANK YOU to all who came. I had a blast and am now even more excited for the showers ahead (I feel spoiled already!).

Our "Babymoon"

2007-09-02T13:01:00.000-06:00

As many of you know, our "extra" money (okay credit card accumulations :)), usually goes towards traveling. A big life change for us will be the fact that our getaways will be fewer and farther in between once baby comes.

SO...I have heard of these "babymoons"...basically, a last little trip before baby comes. Steve will be taking his own BIG BABYMOON when he visits friends in Chile at the end of this month, so we fit a road trip in over Labor Day since we had the three day weekend off.
We had a relaxing weekend in Taos, NM. (Thanks to the CSprings and Denver Nunns for some great recommendations, by the way!). We rented a small house off main street, ate great food, Tucker and Steve went for a hike, Cara went for a spa day (a great one at that!), visited the Taos Pueblos, and the rest of the time was spent walking around the plaza and just laying low. I could do this every weekend :)!

Only a few more months to go!...registeries are updated, showers are coming soon, and the nursery still awaits furniture and work!

2007-08-29T13:00:00.000-06:00

SO LONG SUMMER:
Summer behind me, or at least summer break as I know it, and things are going well back at school. I was worried that I would be EXHASTED by the day's end once reality kicked in, but not too bad so far. Spending the day with 25 fourth graders isn't exactly relaxing or anything, I am just making sure I get to bed earlier these days!
CHANGES:
The belly has definitly grown! Other than that, no major changes. I am still in that "happy medium" stage...no sickness like first trimester and I can sleep well and am too enormous yet to be at that "uncomfortable point". Enjoy it while it lasts, they say :)
LATEST DR. APPT.:
I had an appt. on Monday that included the glucose test and regular check-up. Glucose was negative, wasn't sure because of my "off" sugar levels prior to pregnancy, so it was nice to hear that I can have sweets now and then since I'm no longer worried about gestational diabetes (that knowledge could be a bad thing, actually!). The baby measured a-okay...not a big head like the Gugat side and not a small Havenar head. Since I had to wait for half an hour, my doctor let me have an ultrasound so I could see the baby again....so fun! He/she was moving around a lot, as usual, and looking darling, of course :)!
PREDICTIONS:
I sent out an email to family and friends to get their predictions on boy or girl. If you haven't sent yours my way, please do so! Reward for winner is some Coleman beef...just in time for the holidays :). Silly or not, it is fun for me to see what people predict so thanks for playing!
THE BELLY:
I have definitley "popped" and my belly button has pushed out to almost look flat. Bizarre!
NURSERY:
For now, the middle stages of beadbooard have gone up. Thanks to Alex and Steve! Bless my husband's heart, (I need to praise him as I admit to have made his nursery projects harder than originally planned which he has often reminded me of) he has worked SO HARD and I really do appreciate his support.
DAY CARE?:
So many people have said I should start looking into day care since I am planning on finishing out the school year after my maternity leave. Seemed premature to me as I haven't even named my child, let alone given birth to him or her! APPARENTLY NOT...the two places I am interested in have waiting lists that don't look so promising. Who would have known? Not me, I guess. Oh well...things will work out in the end, I know it!
LONG entry...it's been a while! I will keep things shorter and sweeter from now on (will try to, anyway).
Thanks for checking in on us and happy fall!
Next up....our "Babymoon". Cheesy, maybe, but I will take the chance to getaway anyhow before baby arrives. Taos for Labor Day...can't wait! Will post updates when we get back :)

2007-07-13T12:59:00.000-06:00

JULY SO FAR:
Despite some painful acid relflex that is now under control, ugh!, July has been a wonderful month. I am taking advantage of feeling good and not being too big yet. Tucker, our only child/dog, has benefited daily from this summer-o-fun, too! We have gone camping in Wyoming and to our sister-in-law's lake house in Texas, dog in tow, during the last few weeks. I have felt good and am loving the summer times spent with Steve (who has been the perfect husband to a pregnant wife!) and Tuck...school starts when? :(
THE ULTRASOUND:
We had our "big" ultrasound last night. It was such a relief to see the baby and know that he or she is developing along according to plan. He or she...that's right, we aren't finding out the gender! Anyone who knows me can't quite believe this and I apologize...yet again....to those I persisted to find out their baby's sex over the years :)!
MATERNITY CLOTHES:
I am just starting to creep into some maternity clothes. The boobs and belly are growing :), so the 'early stage' maternity things are feeling comfortable, even if not a perfect fit. I am expecting that one of these days I will pop and grow like a weed, so I am trying to enjoy the fact I haven't had to change much of my clothing as of yet. Thanks to Caroline, Leigh, Aunt Donna, my mom, and Mandy for providing me with my maternity wardrobe!

Thanks for checking in!

2007-06-20T12:58:00.000-06:00

SUMMER IS HERE:I have never felt more thankful to be a teacher! While I always take full advantage of my breaks, this one is longer than usual (3 weeks added due to AC installation) and thank the heavens for that :). I can lay on the couch in the afternoon for a cat nap (I swear it's as if I have have narcolepsy lately!), make a good snack and sit outside when I feel nausaous, or whatever I please!
MY LAST APPT.:I heard the heartbeat again...always a relief...and had blood drawn for the several tests they do. All came back negative and baby's hearbeat is where it should be, which is much faster than mine at 160/minute! Next apt. is a bit past the "halfway mark". I will be 22 weeks and we can find out the gender then, if desired. I still can't decide if we will or not...time to think about it, I guess!
CHANGES:We had a great vacation in California and I wasn't sick the entire time. It had been two weeks since I last got sick or felt sick...until today! My 18th week on the dot and I threw up this morning. Oh well..don't have to go to work, I remind myself. Really feel SO much better...just more sleepy but that could also be due to my strange sleeping patterns as of late. Have been feeling the baby for the last week...hard rolls replaced the "fluttering" feelings from a few weeks ago. Bizarre, but fun!
Happy Summer to you all...we'll keep you posted!

2007-05-13T10:46:00.000-06:00

MY WEEKEND:

I was in Arizona with my great friends Kate Unger, Noel Dahlby, and Julia Crusius over this Mother's Day weekend. (Happy Mother's Day to Mama Noel... mother to my godson, the fabulous Bjorn, by the way). What a perfect weekend we had at the Ungers resort, The Hermosa Inn! I vow to keep such weekends a part of my life, post-baby, though we'll see if those are famous last words or not! :)

MY HUSBAND AND ME:

Some friends say that their husbands gave them Mother's Day presents when they were pregnant. In no way did I expect Steve to do this. Not because he isn't thoughtful and good about these things, but we still forget that we aren't going to Mexico anymore in six months! It just isn't totally real to us. I am thinking next Mother's Day it will more than be reality as our lives will be completely (though in a great way) changed.
THE MOMS:

For an early Mom's Day gift, we went to The Broadmoor with our moms (shout out to Carol and Brenda) for an awesome brunch. We hadn't told them we were expecting, and gave them "Read to Me Grandma" books to break the news. They (some might say "over") reacted by crying and loudly exclaiming their joy. It was great. My sly dad, though I will never know how, whispered to me before they opened the books that he pretty much knew what was coming. I tried to play it off, but he insisted he knew what was up. I swear I gave no clues that would give this away, but it must be father's intuition. Pretty savvy!
Hope your weekend was a great one, too!Love, Me

2007-05-09T08:10:00.000-06:00

So I finally am (slowly, but surely) leaking the word that we are having a baby! After the first pregnancy ending in miscarriage, we decided to wait a few more appointments this time. So here go the last few months in a nut shell:
FINDING OUT:
When in Lawrence for a KU game (go Jayhawks!), I felt a bit funny, but thought it could have been the medication I was on. Light headed at a hair apt. the following weekend, I decided to take a test. Positive! It was the first month we tried, post-miscarriage, and it worked which was a surprise in itself! I told Steve by putting some baby booties by his pillow at bedtime. I had to tell my sisters, too...of course!...but we kept it (fairly) quiet other than that.
SICKNESS:
I have been sick, that's for sure, but nothing I can't "bite the bullet" and handle! Throwing up in the morning and occasionally at very random other times, but I hope that is coming to an end...we'll see. The worst seems to be behind me (and it got pretty bad), so I am crossing my fingers at this point!
DUE DATE/BABY QUESTIONS:
Things are just now starting to seem "real"...though not completely! We are due the day before Thanksgiving, November 21st. People ask if we are going to find out the sex, any chosen names, if I will work or not, etc. All the questions I usually ask but, now that it is my turn, I have no idea what the answers are! I think, in part, this is because I have felt too under the weather to think things through yet. Oh well...I have six more months to figure these things out, I guess.
Stay tuned! Much Love, C and S