Our Blessed Family

My Valentine's

2012-02-14T12:32:00.001-07:00

My Valentine's!!! They are all I need! Love these three more than I can express!

Just Could Not Take It Anymore!

2012-02-11T14:33:00.004-07:00

So I took the 1 inch guard to their hair!

But seeing as how it is already short and tank top season, I guess we can call this the summer hair cuts.

As for Winter Football, this was the last regular season game. We ended 3 and 3! Tournament is next weekend! Then we are starting T-ball!

Debreif from My Run

2012-01-28T13:07:00.004-07:00

So I ran London's Run today. Going into it I did not know what to expect. I had heard it was a great run, for a good cause, and I needed a 10K. Well, the families of the children that Positive Impact have helped were there, along with the kids who are still fighting cancer. Some of the kids are now in Heaven and their stories were told too. I was also able to talk to one of the wonderful coordinators of the run and Positive Impact. I wanted to talk to her to see how to get help, for one of our friends is struggling and in the hospital waiting for a heart (Please pray for Jina, yes this is Penny's Mom). Well, Micah came up and I realized that the run was just as much for him as anything. I was told that there was a memorial poster to put his name on! So wonderful! While waiting to start the race, I met this wonderful woman Rose. Her daughter was just told that her life was going to be shortened because of some medical issues with her Down's Syndrome. We were able to talk and pray before the race and then ran a couple miles together. We both wonder which would be worse, loosing a baby due to miscarriage, still birth, illness after years of having them, anything. We both came to the conclusion that it did not matter! We have lost our children and it SUCKS! During the run they had pictures of the children that have been battling or battled cancer with encouraging sayings. This really helped to encourage me that even if I wanted to give up that their fight was/is harder and running is easy compared to what they are going through. Yes, there was a sign that said "This is hard, Running is Easy". About 3.5 miles into the race, I looked at my watch and realized that I was running much faster than what I was thinking I would. I picked out a lady and hung with her. She was never out of my sight. I was hoping to catch her, but I realized that all I really wanted to do was finish the race in under an hour and ten minutes....I did!!!! It was so encouraging to beat the goal that I thought I would have!

After the run, I got my free food and went to the car so I could make it to Zane's football game. I was so glad to get there. At the end of the game he scored his first points I actually had the camera out and ready. Battery was not dead and I was at the middle of the end zone.

This is what I got. Zane getting the ball!

Then I started to get excited and this is the photo I got of his score!

Yep, this mom needs to have a professional who is not emotionally invested!

This will be a Fun One!

2012-01-22T15:18:00.002-07:00

Just registered for another race! This one is Cinco de Mayo!!! It is a 6 mile mud race! I am so excited! I am trying to keep my races fun and light hearted and I think mud and paint type races are the way to go. So if you are wondering about my craziness or would like to join me, here it is DCB Extreme Adventures!

Fun Football Pictures

2012-01-21T20:23:00.004-07:00

Well, winter ball has started, and while I am still taking the photos, they all look similar. However, today when my camera battery died, my f.i.l. came to my rescue and got some amazing shots!

I know, you would not think it is flag football looking at those photos of Zane, but it is really!

And how could I not put these cute ones in!

One more Week

2012-01-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

So if you read this post you will know that I have a race next week. I am confident that I will have no problem completing the race without walking. However, I have just over a month until this race, which is making me a little more uncomfortable. I will see how well I might do on Sunday when I go for a 10 mile training run. So far my runs are all around 12:30 which would put me under the 4 hour time frame for the half. But I have not run 13 miles since my freshman year of college (1994). YICKS! It is kind of intimidating. But on the plus side, I am down two sizes! It feels like forever since I have run a race. So I am looking forward to the race next weekend. Plus, the cause is great!

Our family hike in pictures

2012-01-16T14:36:00.006-07:00

Base of the Superstition Mountains in Lost Dutchman Wilderness.

His 4th Birthday

2012-01-13T20:45:00.003-07:00

Yesterday we celebrated the all too short life of Micah. I can't believe he has been in Heaven for four years already. It seems like yesterday we were pregnant with him. Man how I wonder what his personality would be like. I imagine he would be my mellow little man. I can only imagine the looks that I would get from people. We already get a lot now with two redheads, but just think what it would be like with three!!!

Here is a little snapshot of how we celebrated. Nana and Papa send Micah yellow roses for each year we have missed him. (Hope you had a wonderful 38th anniversary yesterday). Yes, Micah was born on my parents anniversary. We have a tradition on how we celebrate Micah's birthday, this year we had to push it back a couple of hours because Zane had his second day of all day school. But we still went Putt Putt Golfing (Cody was involved so scoring did not take place). His favorite activity was taking Mommy or Daddy's ball. He would not touch Zane's?!?! I wish I could have gotten a picture of his expression when he would do this!

We followed golf with dinner at Rain Forest Cafe. This is always a hit with Daddy and Zane. Cody did not like it this year. The "animals" and "thunderstorm" scared him. But we still got the picture. You can tell that Cody was not thrilled to be by the elephants and I have no clue about Zane's expression. We have been getting some interesting faces from him lately.

Finally we came home and sang Happy Birthday with sparklers and ate cupcakes. Zane also made sure that Micah Bear was with us yesterday because it was Micah's birthday.

Tis the Season for......

2012-01-06T16:15:00.002-07:00

....Orange Picking!!! There is a You Pick Orange Grove right around the corner from us. We finally went! And boy are they yummy!!! These are just too cute not to share and you can't get any more local than this. The grove is less than a mile from the house!

Frustrated!

2012-01-05T10:49:00.004-07:00

OK, now this is just me airing some of my frustration about genetic traits! If you follow football, and professional football at that,you have heard that Ryan Clark is not playing in the playoff game versus the Broncos this weekend because he has Sickle Cell Trait! What frustrates me about this is this makes people assume that just because you have Sickle Cell Trait that you are going to have trouble at altitude. WRONG!!!!! There was something else that contributed to the situation that happened in 2007, along with the 18 deaths of college athletes since 2000. Now, I am saddened that 18 people have lost their lives and that Clark got sick while playing in Denver. But that it because of Sickle Cell Trait is not founded. Yes, it could be a contributor but what is to say that they were not hydrated enough, over heating, or there was something else.

Why am I so admit about this, because I was an athlete, who was very competitive and grew up competing in Colorado, at ALL elevations. I ran cross country and track, snowboarded, skied, played basketball, and soccer. I did all of this while having Sickle Cell Trait. We did not know about it nor did we ever suspect that I would have it. It was not until I had Zane that we found out that I was a carrier. See, Zane is also a carrier. What does this mean...well, first that the insurance company put a wavier on him because he has Sickle Cell Trait. Second, what if he is a good enough athlete to play in NCAA, he may be denied because he has Sickle Cell Trait. Why should someone who has Sickle Cell Trait be denied the chance to play or do things. They do not know why some people who are carriers have adverse reactions and others don't. There is no explanation. This could happen to anyone. We need to just make sure that we are listening to our bodies, when we need a break take one! That we stay hydrated! Drink water, not the sugar waters that they say are so good for athletes (Gatorade, Power Aid, and the likes are not good for you, water them 1/4 sugar water and 3/4 water would be much better, flavor it and give you some of the nutritional value that it may contain). If it is too hot, you should not be playing a game or practicing anyway. All of what I just stated is what EVERY ATHLETE should be doing anyway. Coaches, yes they need to be tough, but they also need to listen to the players who know their bodies best. The coaches will find out very quickly if it is an excuse or if the player is for real. Dehydration, heat stroke, and not listening to bodies can cause ANY healthy, able bodied athlete to get seriously sick and even die, not just those with Sickle Cell Trait.

Here is an article that does a good job stating that not every Sickle Cell Carrier is at risk and talks more about Ryan Clark.

And in the City!

2012-01-02T16:13:00.004-07:00

So as I was on my way home for the store, I am pulling into our neighborhood and look up to see.....

Yes, they are Bald Eagles! In the middle of the city! Two of them. They were landing on the posts while I was pulling in. I even heard one talking! Call me a wildlife geek, but that is exactly what I am! Yes, I notice the raptors when I am driving and we see lots of Red Tail Hawks, Harris Hawks, Turkey Vultures and Kestrels here in the city, but this is a first!

Events for 2012

2011-12-31T10:50:00.003-07:00

So as we enter into 2012, I figured that I need to write down what some of my goals for 2012 are. First, on Jan 28th run my first 10k. Then on Feb 25th, my nieces first birthday!, run my first 1/2 Marathon. Then each month for the rest of the year run one race. This will keep me on track to keep running and hopefully help me to continue my weight loss journey.

I have not thought of any others right now. But by sticking with this goal will help me to accomplish my 2013 goal of running my first marathon in honor of Micah, who will be turning 5 in 2013!

Here is praying that I stay free from injury (which has been hard already) and stay focused. I have some races in mind for 2012 that I am wanting to run. Don't know about the one in March as it is the weekend after the half but we will see. I also have an idea for May! So we will see what happens. I am hoping to have pictures of the different races.

So may you all have a Safe night and a Blessed 2012! May God bless your families beyond what you could have thought.

Good Morning!

2011-12-26T10:49:00.002-07:00

We have started the tradition to take a family picture first thing, before opening ANYTHING, in our new pajamas that we opened before bed on Christmas Eve. I love this because I then put it in an album that was given to us our first Christmas. It is so fun to look back and see how we have changed. So here is the one for 2011!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T16:26:00.001-07:00

No letter this year, just could not get thoughts down on paper this year. But wanted to say Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! May God bless your family this next year.

Sick again :(

2011-12-16T19:37:00.003-07:00

We have the ickies in our house again~ David came home sick from work today (which is very very rare!). During my run this morning, I was just off. My back ached, that dull ache that you know that you are getting sick. And Cody's cough sounded like it was deep in his chest. So I took him in today. He has another ear infection. It has been a while since he had one, but this is his second round of antibiotics in less than a month. At Thanksgiving the three of us got strep. So this time Zane is the one that is not sick (he was just fine at Thanksgiving when he had strep, he was just contagious). With Zane being fine, at least for now, that makes me fear tomorrow. What am I going to do with him all day if I am still icky? Hope that both boys sleep in tomorrow morning and that I get to sleep too. Don't know if that will happen because I have been waking at 4:40 naturally, when my alarm is going off at 5, on my run days. So lets hope that since I am not running tomorrow that I will be able to sleep in!

Been Awhile

2011-12-10T11:02:00.006-07:00

Well, we have gotten through the birthdays and Thanksgiving and are all ready for Christmas (at least the house is decorated). I have been training for my first half marathon that I will be running in on Feb. 25th! I have a couple of shorter races before. Today I ran Sally's Run. It was amazing! This is the first race to honor this amazing runner and athlete who was killed earlier this year. They were not expecting but 500 participants, there were 1000+!!!! Shows how special Sally was to the community. Please pray for her family as this is the first Christmas without her.

My next race is a 10K, London's Run. This is the end of January and will be my first ever 10K race! Then on Feb 25th I will be doing The Arizona Half Marat hon. I must say that it is starting to freak me out a little that I have done this. I am nervous that I will not finish under their 4 hour time limit or will not be able to finish. But I am determined. I have paid for the races so I will do them and not waste the money. Plus there is an added bonus, since I have started running again, end of Sept. beginning of Oct., I have dropped 2 pant sizes!!!!! One more and I will have to go shopping~

As for the boys. They are keeping me so busy. Cody likes to explore and get into everything. We have to keep the bathroom doors closed or he will go and play in the toilets (YUCK)! He is trying to run and is walking so well. My baby is a toddler. He is also jabbering to us expecting us to understand. It is so sweet and cute, can't wait to actually understand what he is saying, especially to his brother.

Speaking of his brother. Zane was able to do another Critter Keeper at the Zoo. This one was the Arizona Trail. He got to make behavioral enrichment for the Coati and then went into the Pronghorn exhibit and cleaned, feed, made behavioral enrichment, and checked the safety of the exhibit. All the time the female pronghorn were in with them! He was also taken to the Animal Hospital at the Zoo, which I don't even know where it is. He got to "meet" the new male lion, the porcupine and see where the vets help the animals.
We also went to the opening of A Cowboy Christmas at Rawhide. We went on a cold, wet, windy night. But we still had fun and were able to do everything before the rain really started and closed it down. Santa was not there that night and David did not get to spend much time at the Blacksmith's but that just means we will need to go back.

The new timeout chair!?!?!

The Boys favorite activity

Not something I would have been doing on such a cold night, but Zane loves to find the "Gold"

Over the Thanksgiving weekend, we were fortunate enough to get David's parents, and his sister's family together for family photos (which have been long overdue). We had the pictures taken by Tara D. Photography, who also took our maternity and newborn pictures fall of 2010! They turned out so beautiful, it was so hard to choose!

Well, if I don't get back on here til after Christmas, may you all have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

The Party!!!

2011-11-26T20:35:00.006-07:00

We always start off the kids birthdays by filling their bedroom with balloons. Zane loves this, in fact he asked when the balloons were going to come in his bedroom!
His party started at the park behind our house where the kids played while everyone showed up. Then we ate lunch and had cake. As you can see Zane was so excited to blow out the candles. However, in this position he managed to get all six out!?!?
David wanted to do an egg toss! So we did. A good old fashion egg toss!

Poor "E" got all egged. Mommy and Cody did too when Daddy smashed the last egg on my back and it exploded into Cody's face.
We then took the short walk home and all the kids instantly went on the tramp. Which after two years in our Arizona Sun finally had to be replaced last week!
Then the fun started. The kids all got to dig in the mud pit for treasure, plastic snakes, frogs, and the decorative glass stones. The girls were really into this one!

The next one was very much changed from what I originally envisioned. What I wanted was the kids to climb the ladder with a water balloon filled with paint and throw it down on the paper to make a cool effect. Well, I got grenade balloons (which don't break as easily as the colored ones). So the boys changed this from climbing up on the ladder, to staying on the ground and smashing them on the ground, with a bat, or twisting in their hands. The paint was not that vivid, but you could see where they burst open.We had two mud tunnels and a stomping mud pit. The boys especially loved the mud pit!

Another art obstacle, which I will change in the future, is squirt gun painting. I think that food coloring would work better. Plus, I will need to find a higher quality of gun. You would think that in Arizona you would be able to find squirt guns year round (NOT)! But the boys of course loved squirting a person! As usual, the fly swat painting was a hit. It starts out so cool then they all get into it and the finished product is very interesting colors.
Three of the boys, Zane was one of them, and the moms' favorite one was Paintball Slingshot painting. It is such a great way to get aggression out, plus it is down right fun!
We were all very surprised at how clean the kids were. But you could tell they all had fun and did not want to leave! Thank you all for making such a great birthday for Zane!

That night we did our traditional Zoo Lights trip with the family. I did not take pictures this year because the ones of people never show up very well. But I could not resist getting a video of Zane and Aunt Annetta racing down the Polar Slide!

My Baby is SIX!

2011-11-25T00:00:00.003-07:00

So today six years ago our lives were changed forever. I had been in the hospital for a week because of pre-eclamsia and my liver stated to shut down on Thanksgiving Day. After the blood work came back (which they did stat) Dr. Mills started my induction. I was only 29 weeks!!!! After fighting for 18 hours (because I was not able to get up to go to the bathroom) they finally gave me the epidural (for we wanted a natural birth). Well, 1.5 LITERS of urine came out. Less than 30 minutes later our baby was born. When they told us it was a boy I think we both breathed a sigh! He was bitty, 2 lbs 14.2 oz and 16 inches long. I got to hold him for about 2 minutes before they rushed him up to the NICU. These pictures are from Dec. 1, 2005. It was so hard to leave the hospital and entrust the nurses with my baby. But I did for 52 days!

Then he turned 1! You could already have a hard time figuring out that he was so early!
And then 2! And this picture so shows your personality then and now. In fact, I still get this look!

Then for your third birthday, you got a nice cut above your eye just before~ But you did great with it and we learned not to have glue as a stitches again.

Growing so fast and not looking like a baby anymore here you are 4!At five you started to go to school and learned how to share your mommy and daddy! We figured out that the longer hair looks and fits you best.

Now you are six and such a big boy and a love. You have to be active and doing something, preferably with your daddy. You love your baby brother and he loves you. You have started and love football and school. We are so proud of you and can't wait to see how much you grow this year. Even if we wish you would slow down a little. Happy 6th Birthday Zane! You are so special and Mommy, Daddy, and Cody love you so much! Continue to grow, thrive, and learn!

Not What Was Planned

2011-11-24T16:24:00.004-07:00

First....Happy Thanksgiving to you!

We are so thankful for so many things: our family, home, God, and all His blessing that He has given us. But as for blessings, you never think of blessings as things not going the way that they are planned. It started Monday. Cody's nose started to get really thick and then on Tues it changed color. So I took him into the Dr. after picking Zane up from school. She told me that he has a sinus infection and strep throat. GREAT! Can we please get Zane cultured. After paying our copay for Zane, and getting an "appointment" scheduled, he had a culture and sure enough he has strep too. No fever, no change in energy level, none of the symptoms that they tell you to look for. So we get the Rx and then I call David and tell him I should get checked too. Sure enough that is three of us with strep and no symptoms for me. In fact, my post nasal drip soar throats hurt worse than this did. So we were trapped at home on Wednesday. Zane just wanted to go play with his friends. He does not understand that he was contagious even though he did not feel sick. Talk about driving a mommy crazy!

So this morning, I woke up and went to run my race (as planned). I ran the whole 2 miles and finished, which was my goal. I do not know what my time was as they did not keep time. But next year I will be running the 10K along with 5000 others! It was a mass of humanity! After I was done I called David and he told me that Cody had green buggers coming out everywhere! Great, there went dinner plans~ However, it worked out great. We were able to go to Walmart, get a smoked turkey (yummy) at 30% off! Along with other sides that we do not keep in the house. This was about 10 am. We sat down to eat just after 3 pm! It was yummy and we did not infect other small children or adults with whatever Cody has. It has also aloud us to get ready for Zane's Birthday Party tomorrow (which there will be a post later!)

Again, hope you all had a great Thanksgiving and made memories that you will cherish and maybe started a new tradition. I know I did!

Tournament Game vs. Redskins

2011-11-12T09:56:00.003-07:00

So the boys won the game and kept the Redskins from scoring. In fact, Zane made a pull right before the end zone to keep their score to zero! The boys did great and only had 5 players. We added a 6th who will be "legal" for winter ball, and therefore forfeited the game (but the boys don't understand that). It gave this new member of the team to play and he has been coming to practice every practice for a month. What a great thing for him and the boys. I think it proved to the other 5 that he is going to be a great addition! Here are a couple of photos

WALKING!!!!

2011-11-11T19:17:00.002-07:00

So, Cody has really been walking for about a week, but I have not had the camera ready or near me when he has been walking. I finally did! So here he is!

Amazing Bugs!

2011-11-11T14:16:00.007-07:00

On this Veterans Day, as we are remembering all of our Heroes who protect our freedoms and why we get to protest, speak our mind, vote, worship the way we believe (not what a government says you will) and for me and my boys, go were we want when we want! Well, we went back to the Desert Botanical Gardens. I was torn between three choices: The Botanical Gardens, Zoo or Veterans Day Parade. I decided that seeing as how I was by my self a parade may be dangerous, with school out the Zoo too crowded for our liking, which left the Gardens! We definitely made the right choose!!!! I had thought that the butterflies were gone because it is mid-November and I thought that they left at the end of October! Well, I was wrong! They were calm today because it was cloudy and beautiful and cool. I also wanted to go back so we could have a more peaceful look at the Amazing Bugs that are on display.

Look close, you will see the ants walking down the anthill

Damselfly
Assassin Bug
Daddy Long-legs and perspective of how big these sculptures are

Dragonfly, which may have been in a previous postLady Bug in the Herb garden

Preying Mantis, which was in a previous post
Spider in a Web

Now some ones of my boys having fun and what they discovered!

Look in the center, you will see two eyes and some green within the algae, it is a American Bullfrog!

Mocking bird, in the center of picture

Humming Bird
Curved Bill Thrasher

Most enjoyable part of the trip!

On the Sunday before Halloween, Zane's AWANAS group had crazy hair day! This is how he had his hair done and won the award for Most Enjoyable!

Yet another Football Post, Game 8 vs. Jags

2011-10-29T11:11:00.006-07:00

Again, we spent our Sat. morning at the football fields. The boys tried some new plays, like a shotgun offense. But could tell that they enjoyed themselves. I thought that this was the last week, but silly mommy, there is still the tournament! But here are some of the pictures that I got from the game.

Ready to play football!

Focused on getting flags!

Getting the fakes!

Playing Center

First teammate to congratulate on the TD!

Parent Tunnel!

I had never heard of a parent tunnel until I started Zane in soccer last spring. I love this! In all of my years of sports in Colorado, never once did we do this. The kids LOVE it and run through it many times! Such a great way for the parents and other fans to show support to the kids.

Of course, need to show the Baby! So here is Cody playing football!

Cody's First Birthday

2011-10-23T14:16:00.014-07:00

So, Cody's birthday celebration ended up lasting a week. We started with a, it has been too long since we have been, trip to the Zoo! Where Cody had his first experience touching a reptile.
This was one of my favorite pictures of the day of my two boys. We were by the Big Horn Sheep statue.
Then as we were on our way out past the Orangutans, we saw Dutchess, the mom, climb up to the roof of their new enclosure. She then proceeded to poop from the roof. Of course Zane LOVED this!
On Tuesday we had a play date with some of my MOMS group. We had our own pumpkin festival. I was pleasantly surprised that there was another little girl there with the same birthday as Cody! So we sang Happy Birthday to them both and enjoyed cookies and painting pumpkins.

My boys enjoying their cookies

Cody playing with Tori

My boys swinging
The First Birthday Stars

Then on Wednesday we made a special trip to PPA, the doctors office that I went to while I was pregnant with Cody, to see Dr. Mills. I consider Dr Mills as the one who was my doctor for Zane because during the week that I was hospitalized he was the one who was on call the most. In fact he would have caught Zane if I had him two hours earlier. Am so thankful for this man and his love and care for me. While I was laboring with Cody, I felt like I was the only person that mattered. Such a wonderful doctor. So sad that you have to be high risk to have him.
Then on Saturday we did a last minute change of plans. I did not feel like cooking and we needed to do something for Cody, so we decided to have Olive Garden takeout. We would have eaten there, but I don't think they would have enjoyed a naked baby eating spaghetti, especially with all the homecoming dates that were there. We had the same meal for Zane's first birthday, only I made it.

Zane's First birthday Spaghetti

Cody taking his first bite

Then he got the breadstick and did not go back to the spaghetti

After dinner we headed to Baskin Robbins for Cody's free ice cream scoop. I got him vanilla. HE LOVED IT! In fact we have the following video to prove it

Yes, he really liked his ice cream! but really thinks he gets it honestly, mommy does too. Now I could not post pictures without showing Zane eating his first Ice Cream Cone.

On Sunday, today, we had Cody's First Birthday Party. Ember and Hagen joined us, with their mommy and daddy and the boys Nana. We went to the Pumpkin Festival at the Desert Botanical Gardens. We have done this every year for the last 4 years, the last three have been with Ember and Lisa. However, I did not get to go last year, but David and Zane did, because I was lying in a hospital bed waiting for this little clown to be born!

Zane choose the material for his costume!
Our Family Oct. 2011

This was our Family in Oct. 2006. Had to do the Clowns for 2011!

We then got out of our costumes, very quickly because it is still so hot~, and went back to the pumpkin patch via a hay ride!

Ember, Zane, Hagen, and Cody waiting to enter the Hay Maze

The Breuer Family!

The Kids in the Pumpkin PatchOur Family in the Pumpkin Patch
Our Pumpkin!
Best friends!
My boys with the MASSIVE pumpkin that Zane had to have!

Zane has no idea I was taking the following video. Love how he was driving to the music. Really hope this is not how he drives in 10 years (only 10 more years til he is driving~)

We then proceeded into the gardens. We were greeted by this AMAZING praying mantis. There is a new exhibit which is all these giant bugs that are made of natural materials, like wood and willows. I have to go back when it is not so hot and crowded to get more time with the bugs.

We headed to the Monarch Butterfly Exhibit where we watched the butterflies eat and sun themselves.

Zane and Ember watching a butterfly

Finally we stopped and sang Happy Birthday to Cody and Cody was able to enjoy his first cupcake! He loved this too!

After all this we came home and ate lunch. Cody then took (is still taking) a very long nap!

Happy Birthday Dear Cody! Hope you can look back on these pictures and know how much we love you and how special you are!

Game 7 vs. The Falcons

2011-10-22T20:07:00.003-07:00

Zane getting a flag pull

Zane had the hand-off faked to him. I think he did a good job selling it!

Zane had a special cheerleader to watch him today!

Carrying the ball
Zane is the one that is falling grabbing the flag of the person carrying the ball. It is so helpful to have the only red head on the field!
Today is also Cody's first birthday!!!! We are still celebrating tomorrow, so his birthday post will come later!

Game 6 vs. Raiders

2011-10-16T12:09:00.000-07:00

The boys are finally getting the hang of this thing. We only have two weeks left, but most of the boys are going to be on the same team this winter! So we should see huge improvements. In fact, this first picture is Zane making a great tackle, he had a real tackle I thought I got, but didn't and he got flagged.

He had a great run with the ball!
The little smile after pulling a flag and getting another tackle, I think he got three or four today!
Man, why did you reverse the ball, I would have had it!
Ready position!

Skirting the sideline before stepping out.
Off I go again
Watch me and try to catch me!
I am going to get you
Going to "block"

Remember

2011-10-15T13:54:00.003-07:00

It is that time of year that we remember our babies. Oct. 15 is Infant Loss Awareness Day. I have heard this so many times and it so hits home but here it is again. "A person that losses a partner is called a widow. A child who loses a parent is called an orphan. But there is no word to describe a parent who loses a child, because that loss is like no other."

There are more out there than you realize. Those of us who have three children but you only see two, or five but only see three, four but only see two or two but don't see any. Please take time to remember these families and their precious babies. We love them and they will be missed. But we are still parents.

My Angel Micah

Schnepf Farms

2011-10-14T08:19:00.003-07:00

So last night we took a family fun night to the Schnepf Farm Pumpkin and Chili Festival .
This was the first time we have taken the boys to this. We have been there to pick peaches and apricots, yummy!, but never this. David and I have done it pre-children. Well, we risked the late night and went. So glad we did too! (However, ask me again at the end of today about attitudes).

My boys among Pumpkins and Hay Bales

Cody is just too cute (had one of Zane but the pumpkins were in focus, not him :()

I think one of the things I will remember most is that I got to FINALLY do a fun ride with Zane that was a first. David has always been the one to take Zane down the water slides and stuff because it seems that I have been pregnant or with a very small baby. Well, I got to take Zane on his first roller coaster! So fun. He enjoyed it but said it gave him a heart attack!
They also have cool corn mazes that we ventured into as a family. I think we will start to have more fun with this as the boys get older and we can hide and scare each other! I must say I love when it works out that there is a family that is taking pictures (one is always missing from the shot) and you ask if you can take their family picture and then get the favor returned! We don't have enough family photos of the family fun nights. Thank you to the kind family who took this!

Zane in his first corn maze
Daddy and Zane "hiding". The smokey effect is just dust
Yes, I look like I am backing away, but that is so Cody is not blocked. Way too cute!
Zane rode the bumble bee spin ride all by himself and we finally figured out how to get it to go up and down. He then figured out that if you jerk on the handle bar it makes you go up and down jerky.
The goats would jump on him to get food. Just like Leroy does when we get home.
There were bicycles that could hold a family. We did not know that the seats were adjustable til the end. But David and Zane went on them!

We also watched pig racing, played putt-putt golf, and launched "pumpkins", OK tennis balls. Along with many other things. It was so much fun and a wonderful night. Can't wait to do it again next year!

Game 5 vs. The Lions

2011-10-08T15:17:00.007-07:00

I know, he was crying, but I just had to give Cody a Mohawk. Especially seeing as how Zane wants one so bad. He is just going to have to wait!

So close to snagging the ball from the quarterback!

Snagged the quarterbacks flag!!!!!

"blocking" for Dee!

International Children's Day

2011-10-08T14:26:00.003-07:00

This was year two for us for International Children's Day at school. We have learned more about how all of this works. It also seems as though Zane is actually getting it! He was singing!!!!

Then the parade that started the whole event. Zane was so concerned because he did not see me at first. It was really cute.

Last year we had him dress Irish, he did not want anything to do with that this year. I tried to get him to wear his karate uniform, a king's cloak and crown. I finally got him to wear his Canada hat. Which still represents our family! So much fun and so glad he sang this year.

Game 4

2011-10-01T11:15:00.007-07:00

Game 4 was so much better. More energy, a desire to want to play. It was so much more enjoyable to watch. Now if we could just get the flags to stop flapping so we can get the tackles. You watch their little hands just grab and fly around the flag. I know the boys are getting frustrated with it. I am wondering if maybe we should not play tag where they have to grab the flags to get them "out".

Zane Ready to Play

Huddling

Getting the hand off!

Guess who is Quarter Back!

That pesky flag

Set! Hike!

I have handed it off, now what?

Hand Off!

As you can see we have three things in our life. Football, Karate, and School, which includes AWANAS. I have not even made it to the zoo or botanical gardens lately. But then it is still too hot to do so. Next week is fall break so we will be going to both places. Plus, Nana and Papa will be here in about 2 weeks! and Cody will be 1 in 22 days! Boy, this has been a crazy year!

Game Three

2011-09-24T13:09:00.003-07:00

Today's game was rough. Zane did really good and almost ran the field for a touchdown, but got tackled. Yes, he got tackled in flag football. It was funny because the boys are learning that the easiest way to get the flags is to grab the jersey and run into the opponent then get the flag. Because if not, then it is like trying to grab a feather in the wind. They are still so cute and having fun.

Starting them Young!

2011-09-24T13:08:00.002-07:00

So yes, as you have noticed mud is one of the must toys in our house. This time, we have introduced Cody to the mud. He was very happy until he went under and then during bath time. This mud pit is the one that David has dug under the tramp. But it now has other uses too, such as a BMX "course".

It is also getting cool enough that we can enjoy the hammock again!!! Cody and Zane love it and are soooo cute in it.

Game Two in Picture

2011-09-17T11:48:00.004-07:00

The Tale of Two Belts

2011-09-10T14:09:00.007-07:00

This morning I woke and I knew it was going to be crazy, but this crazy, NO! See we started with needing to be at the football field to get jerseys and flags fitted at 7:20 am. This was an undertaking. The jerseys that we have for the boys (the whole league) would fit me! So we had to pin them and tie them. I was told to cut them! NO WAY The are too nice! We also had to get the flags fitted. Now, these are not the cool P.E. ones that were Velcro that we had. No we had to get the piece that holds the flag to the belt on. Looked real easy until you started. Once it was on and the kids pull the flag off it is cool, because it makes a little pop. Once we got all that done, the boys had practice. We then headed over to the field! Where Zane and his team (The Ravens) played the Broncos...Mom and Dad, I am glad this was not the week you were here because I know that you would not known what to wear or which team to cheer for :). But here is the video of Zane and some pictures of The Ravens playing.

Getting ready!

Running

Grabbing a flag, don't know if the kid has the ball or not, but he was just grabbing yellow flags all game long!

"blocking"

And belt number two. Which started at 11:30 and went til 12:45ish, after we did not get home from football til after 10 am! Going from his white belt

With a whole lot of other stuff. We have never gone through a karate graduation before, so we did not know what to expect. But we were able to see Zane have almost of full class.

This is his class saying their creed (I had help with filming from a 10 month old!)

They did a few practice moves to get ready to show some of their moves!

Getting ready

to do a trick

Waiting to get presented with his next belt

Is now a Fusion Orange Belt!

And how could the day be complete without a picture of Cody! So here he is going down the slide. I don't know (remember) if this is his first time or not. But I am afraid that this one is giving up ALL naps. After this morning he only slept for 40 minutes! Please don't give them up yet!

Did not See it Coming

2011-09-01T09:10:00.003-07:00

Today started out like any other, for the most part. I took Zane to school, knowing that it was the new preschoolers first day. While I was dropping him off, one of his friends was taking his brother up the walk and mom was taking pictures. It was so cute, and I thought how much they looked alike, blond hair, build, complexion. After I was away about 4 miles, it slapped me across the face that I should be taking the same picture with two little red heads with fair complexion and Zane showing his little brother the ropes. When those who have walked this path say it comes in waves and out of the blue, they were not kidding.

Micah, I miss you and miss seeing you growing up. How I long to see what you would be like. Love you and long to hold you!

Too cute

2011-08-21T16:32:00.002-07:00

So my little 10 month old, tomorrow, had a few milestones this week and I actually got them. Plus he is just so darn cute!

Just too cute not to share

And finally, his favorite thing to do and my least favorite thing to clean up

Welcome to Kindergarten!

2011-08-06T16:49:00.002-07:00

My oldest hit another milestone this week. He started kindergarten! We were all able to take him to his first day!

Summer is Over....

2011-07-28T13:22:00.005-07:00

...or at least the structured (lack of) part of summer. As for the temperatures, not til the end of October :( But I figured that I need a recap of our summer!

First we started with swimming! Zane is getting so confident and good at it. Cody loved the water, just not going under too well. He still has yet to figure out how to blow bubbles, but I know that will come. Zane has also gotten so confident that he has started to do front flips into the pool

Even though his teacher is holding him, he does not need it!"I'm to good for this class"

The face he would give me when he went under

Does really good on his back!

We then spent a week in Colorado. This was much needed because I have not been out of Arizona for the last two summers! We spent the week with my parents, went to the Zoo, White Fence Farms, and the Botanical Gardens at Chatfield. David and Zane also went to Water World and loved it! In fact they said that they don't think that they will appreciate Sunsplash as much. We were also able to visit family and celebrate the Forth of July and my birthday in Colorado!

Family at Chatfield Gardens

The waterfall where we were taking the pictures just called to be played in!

This tells our whole story! Zane and Cody picking on mommy and daddy is unaware

Up in the tree house at White Fence Farms

Tractor driving at White Fence

My little Cowboy in the barn!

The must have Picture at the Zoo!
My big boys watching fireworks

We were very blessed while in Colorado to have cooler weather, rain every evening and so much green! It was a great break from the heat and, yes humidity, of Arizona. The monsoon is in full force!

We missed the Haboob that hit the Valley while we were gone, but came home to a great rain storm that we were all so tired that we slept right through it! Also while we were in CO Cody was getting ready to cut his top two teeth, which then came through Tuesday July 12! We also had Zane allergy tested and discovered that he is allergic to the out-of-doors! But by controlling his allergies seems to have helped in some behavior issues. We then did two more weeks of swim lessons and celebrated daddy's birthday! This week we have taken it "easy" and I have kept some of my promises to Zane that we have not had time to do. We have seen Cars 2 and gone to the Zoo. Monday Zane starts Kindergarten! We have open house tonight. It has been very fast and I can't believe my big boy is starting school!

Ring Came!

2011-07-15T15:12:00.003-07:00

Remember here when I ordered my ring that honors Zane and Cody? Well it finally came and it is beautiful! The picture does not do it justice, but Mom, you can get an idea of what it looks like. It is right beside the one I got for Micah. Zane's birthstone is on top and Cody's is on the bottom. They look amazing in the sun! Every time I look at my hand I am reminded of all my boys and how special they are.

y

Kick-A-Thon

2011-06-11T15:17:00.002-07:00

Zane had so much fun at the St. Jude Children's Hospital Kick-A-Thon. He had to do 129 kicks! What I was not aware of was that I was going to be the one to be counting the kicks. He did really good and really enjoyed himself!Here he is before breaking the board. He is proud that he is going to be kicking the board! However, before he did we were treated to Kaizen's Team Elite and Team Dragon, which are performance teams and then to a World Champion Martial Arts performer, who I did not catch her name, but she did her routine with a sword. It was amazing and Zane asked why she did not cut herself when it was a real sword.
Yes, he really did kick the board in half! It happened really fast and I did not expect him to break it so easily or quickly. I think he has gotten hooked on Karate!

Super Crazy and Busy

2011-06-09T13:38:00.002-07:00

I thought that when school ended we would slow down and I could get Cody on more of a schedule and spend some time with Zane one-on-one. Yeah, that is pretty funny!

I seam to be more busy now than when school was in session. Between doing all the appointments that a doctor wants us to do in three months. Oh and we have not even started swim lessons yet, those start Monday!

One of the things that the doctor wanted us to do is get Zane into Karate. Which we did and he is doing much better than the time that we had him in with daddy when he was 3ish or so. He loves to go and stays focused for the most part. He is also having his first fund raiser which is for St. Jude Children's Hospital which is a kick-a-thon! I can't tell if he is excited or frustrated about it. I know he will have fun once he sees what it is about and sees that his last kick is a board that he gets to break. I am excited for this.

We are also doing the Harkins Summer Movie Fun again. Cody falls asleep during the movie and Zane is not wanting to go home after 5 minutes like last year!

As for Cody, we are working on the top two teeth. It has not been fun. He is totally sitting up for minutes, not just seconds (which I don't count) and loves to be outside, surprised?. I can't believe that he is almost 8 months old already.

So that is just a quick little check in. Hope to have pictures and update on how many kicks Zane had to do on Sat. next week.

We have been very blessed so far as it has not been that hot yet. I am so not complaining because it has been nice to be able to be outside this far into June in the afternoons. Just hoping that the pool is not too cold come Monday when swim lessons start. Cody will not like the cold water! I don't think Zane will either. This is why I quit doing first session on the lessons.

Mother's Day Weekend

2011-05-13T16:33:00.003-07:00

We were so lucky in that David got to have Saturday off! This is VERY rare. So we decided to go camping. It did not go as planned but that is a whole different story. This was the first time Zane and Cody went tent camping. We were planning on staying up Sat and Sun nights. But we have been experiencing some very cool weather in Arizona this May. It was a little cold Sat. night but we made it through, thanks to being able to have a fire. Well, Sunday there were high winds and the red flag went up. So there was no warming up by the fire. There were still some firsts! Like Zane caught his first Rainbow Trout!

Cody was all smiles and enjoyed being outside!

And it was beautiful and I was able to hear the wind through the pine trees again. Something that I took for granted growing up but totally miss now.

Before we went up Zane got to show Daddy why we love the Breakfasts at the Zoo! Daddy and Zane were able to go into the elephant exhibit and hide cookies all around. Needless to say my boys almost fell in the "pond" because David thought that the ball was inmovable. But they stayed dry!We also saw a perfect elephant foot print! Here is Zane's hand inside of the print! It is amazing how big these creatures are!

Some Big Surprises this Easter

2011-04-25T16:48:00.006-07:00

So Easter started out the same. We had Zane "hunt" for our breakfast. I hid raw eggs throughout the yard and he found them. I then cooked them up.

I think that my favorite part of the hunt was this! Cody's first Egg Hunt! He is such a cuddle bug.

This was the biggest surprise! David took Zane's training wheels off Saturday Night and he was riding as though he has never needed them. We both think the only way he will fall is if he is totally goofing around.

We also had our family tradition for the last three years. We started to tye dye the first Easter after Micah died because I needed to have Easter be for us and do something that was different. So we tye dyed. This started Zane's love for tye dyes.

David and I each did one for ourselves and one for each of the boys. Zane did one for Cody and three for himself. Here are some of them! I also think this is the cleanest my hands have stayed!
The One I made for Cody!

Cody is Six Months!

2011-04-22T15:12:00.003-07:00

I can not believe that it has been 6 months already! Cody has been such a blessing and is such a happy baby. He is weighing in at 13 pounds 12 ounces, is 25.5 inches, and has a 43.2 cm head circumference (7%, 50% and 50%). He cut his first tooth on Sunday and has started eating rice, bananas and avocados. He is still not sure of the avocados yet. He cat naps and has to have his Binky, it can only be the soothie brand too. He adores his big brother and watches everything he does. Zane loves "his baby" as long as daddy is not home. Cody is also very fond of daddy! If we are having a hard time calming Cody down all we have to do is take him outside. He does not like tummy time and has figured out that if he just rolls over then he does not have to be on his tummy. He is almost ready to roll from back to tummy and sit up.

Big Horn Breakfast

2011-04-22T11:24:00.005-07:00

So I signed up for this breakfast more for me than Zane. See, with a degree in Wildlife Biology I spent a lot of time studying Big Horn Sheep. One of my professors was a lead researcher of Rocky Mountain Big Horn. So when this breakfast was made known to me, I jumped on it. It was so much fun to go back towards the handlers entrance and get right up to the sheep. The male, Truman, is magnificent! He is very protective also. He was even more so today. For there were two babies born this week, one on Monday and one on Tuesday. They did not come down and neither did their moms but we were able to see them when we were at the breakfast part. It is amazing to see these little babies hopping around on the mountain cliffs so effortlessly.

One thing that the keeper was very clear on was that we were not to go near the gate and not to make loud noises because Truman would charge and ram the fence. I forgot that Big Horns can ram going at 35 mph! Imagine the force behind the hit.

Zane feeding Truman

Being shown a Big Horn Skull and able to see that the horns are connected by bone

My Boys at the Zoo!

Renaissance Festival 2011

2011-03-29T14:22:00.004-07:00

I have been looking forward to the Renaissance Festival for a long time. I love watching Zane there and how much fun he has there. It was a new experience taking a baby, but Cody did amazing. In fact he was able to "hold" Maggie the Goose! I don't think he was too sure of it, but Zane loved it as always. Zane also showed his love for the Greyhounds.

Zane was also able to do a lot of rides and get worn out!

I was able to get my ring! Two years ago I got a ring that had Micah's birthstone. I then pierced my nose and had Zane's birthstone for that, but the nose ring did not work for me. So I knew that I wanted have to replace it with a ring. Well, then we got pregnant and had beautiful Cody! Which means that I needed to get two rings or a ring with both their stones. The Jeweler that made Micah's ring is also making Zane and Cody's ring. Both stones are going to be on the same ring! I am so excited. Micah's ring is this one only with a garnet. There is not a picture of Zane and Cody's but when it comes in 3 months (he has to make it) I will show you.

The only disadvantage about going to The Festival with kids is that you don't get to go to as many shows. However, we went to Wylde Men (the mud show) heard the last of Three Men and Lots of Drums, and at lunch we listened to Tartanic. So much fun, perfect day, especially with it being the end of March in Phoenix, and so many memories made. I must say that I love this family outing every year.

Butterflies Spring 2011 Edition

2011-03-18T12:31:00.003-07:00

With Nana coming today, but not until almost the time that Daddy gets home, I needed something to get Zane to not ask me "When will Nana be here?" It started at 6:30 yesterday morning when waiting for his friend to come at 9:30. Did not want a replay. I knew that the Zoo would be a zoo today, gorgeous day and spring break, so I opted for the Botanical Gardens. We got there and the lot was really full. I forgot that it was the Plant Sale, happens once in spring and once in fall. But we went in anyway. I love that Zane has been there so much that I don't have to remind him constantly of the rules.

This is how well he know the Gardens. There is a scavenger hunt that the kids can do, one is plant and the other animals, he had found all nine of the objects before we get to the Succulent garden, which is only about 200 feet into the garden. In fact he found most of them while we were sitting reading the clues!

We then headed to the Butterflies. I have learned that he will not leave until he has at least one land on him. He has learned that if he holds his hand out in the sun on a rock or ground they will come up on his hand. He then had one land on his head and he exclaimed that it was tickling his brain! Love that kid!

It was then time for Cody to eat and I went to one of my favorite spots there. So peaceful and cool, even when it is 100+ there. After a little snack I was able to get these amazing pictures of my little boys.

Thought we were done

2011-03-13T14:38:00.007-07:00

So when we did this I thought he would have out grown it. I never thought that at 5 he would turn the area we had just planted into a mud pit. Well, I guess I did. And yes, those are his clothes which I was able to get fairly white and gray again!

I am wondering if these guys need some help? We will be going in two weeks! And I can't wait!

Also with March 2 as Dr. Seuss's birthday, Zane's school has aday the day before Spring Break! I was busy serving the kids the green eggs and ham

Then the kids could go and eat them

Totally simple but oh so much fun!

Growing up

2011-03-08T14:31:00.003-07:00

So today Zane lost his first tooth, with help from mommy. It was barely hanging on and with the promise of an orange shake (homemade Orange Julius) he allowed me to pull it. I feel like this is the first step to adulthood. Especially with the adult tooth already coming through. where oh where did the time go?I love you baby! I wish I could keep you from growing up so fast though. If only putting rocks on their heads like my Grandpa said really did work~

"Forcing" boys to wear the same outfit

2011-03-06T15:12:00.004-07:00

I just loved this outfit when I bought it for Zane. In Oct. 2009, I pretty much got rid of all our baby stuff, except those outfits that I wanted to keep, just because. This was one of them. I am so glad I did. Both Zane and Cody look so cute in it. Zane was a month "older" than Cody when I took them.

Oh they are just too cute! I love these boys and am glad that I kept this outfit.

Now if I can just find where the first year calendar is that I wrote down all of Zane's "firsts".

My Baby is Four Months

2011-02-23T11:17:00.004-07:00

I can not believe that my baby boy is already four months old. He is such a joy and happy baby. He is talking up a storm, loves his big brother, smiles so much, and is such a cuddle bug. He is now 11 lbs 2 oz and 24 inches long. He is tall and skinny, just like his brother. He is also cutting his eye teeth. He has the top two teeth poking through and the bottom right is almost all the way through. I guess he is telling me that he wants to be on Team Edward. But all kidding aside. I love this little guy and can not believe it has been four months.

Here is Zane at four months.

Game 2 and an Emotional Week

2011-02-19T14:03:00.006-07:00

Since October, we have had a very emotional ride. First the news came that on the first Sunday in October David's Grandfather passed away.

Then that Friday, my Grandmother fell, hit her head and then passed away on Sat.

Two weeks later Cody was born. Perfect and wonderful.

Then on Tuesday of this week, David's last Grandparent was welcomed into Heaven. Grandma Perin was so eager to meet her Lord and Savior that it is hard to morn. However, we are going to miss her but know that she is up there pain free and singing praises to God. She was such an amazing example of a Godly woman.

Now we are eagerly awaiting the birth of David's sisters baby. I am so excited to become an Aunt again and so excited that the youngest cousins are going to be so close in age. Both babies are coming at times of great sorrow. Did I mention that between this I also lost my Great Grandfather, two days after Micah's birthday. Yes, my GREAT GRANDFATHER! However, I can't seem to find the picture I have of him and Zane. All of this since the beginning of Oct.

With the passing of Grandma Perin came another first, I was home alone with the boys and there was no "escape" for me to call on. I have been away from David, but always had my parents. This time, David was gone along with his parents. I am in even more awe of single parents and mommies who's husbands travel a lot. I know I would not be a fan of it.

Now for the fun and amusing stuff. Game 2! So wish that David could have been here, but he was still in Indiana. But Zane was ever amusing and scored his first goal, which was so much fun to hear him recount it to daddy on the phone.

This is just a cool action shot of Zane!

This next set of pictures are of his goal scoring play. I must say that team work is not quite on their mind yet and that Zane's position at the time was a defender. Which makes this even more amusing.

Got the ball

Driving up the field

In front of the goal

Light kick into goal
Looking at coach for direction

Now I can be cocky
Boy I love this kid. He made sure that Grammie was aware that he scored the goal.

First Soccer Game

2011-02-12T15:52:00.007-07:00

This post is more for Nana and Papa and for Grandpa. They were not able to be at Zane's game, which is sad. But I know that they will make it later in the season. Grandpa, thank you for taking care of Great Grandma and let her know that we love her and are praying that God answers her prayers. Nana and Papa, we can't wait til you are here in a month. Aunt T, hope you enjoy these and they make you laugh.

Now for the videos!

Celebrating Micah

2011-01-12T19:43:00.005-07:00

I can not believe that it has been three years since I held my middle son and said goodbye to him. It seems like yesterday, yet so much has happened. This post, like many others, is more of a journal entry so I can remember what we did and don't loose it, which I tend to do! Like we have done in the past we went to Rain Forest Cafe for lunch and sat right next to one of the tanks. Cody did not know what to do about it, besides throw up on me. Zane had his usual, chicken nuggets and Daddy and I both had burgers. I am so glad that we only eat there once a year!

My favorite from the restaurant

Guess I moved my hand when I took the pictures~

While we were taking the pictures in front of the gorillas, they were "talking" which I thought was appropriate I took video!

Then we went to Golfland and played a round of putt-putt golf on the Princess course, we were on the Lost Dutchman last year. Here are some pictures and some videos of our play. I am sure that Nana and Papa will find this amusing knowing how great of a golfer that I am!

Just an FYI, I did not win, but I do think it was one of my best scores. David scored a 51, I had a 56 (and 3 hole on ones, I also had some BAD holes), and Zane got a 71, we gave him 5's on a lot because we lost count.

Zane Putting

In front of the Castle

Cody trying to play

After dinner we had Micah's Birthday Cupcakes, funfetti white cake with chocolate frosting and
sprinkles. We were able to have special candles this year, Sparklers!

Watching Daddy get the "candles" ready

Lighting the "candles"

Singing "Happy Birthday"YUMMY!

Daddy also raked the leaves, which we have lots of because of the freeze. Zane had a great time playing in them. Also, Nana and Papa sent roses again, three for Micah's third birthday. They are beautiful and I love the ribbon, it reminds me of my Grandma who passed away two weeks before Micah was born.

Happy Third Birthday Micah. Mommy, Daddy and Zane miss you so much and wonder what you would be like. I know you would have been such a great big brother to Cody. Love you so much and long for the day when I get to hold you again.

SNOW!!!!!

2010-12-30T13:47:00.004-07:00

Who says it never snows in the Valley of the Sun!?! Well here is two short clips that prove it does!

Wonder if this will close schools tomorrow? Oh wait, they are still on break!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T15:22:00.002-07:00

Dearest Friends and Family,

As you can see, this year was a year full of wonderful changes for us!

First, we added a new member to our family. Cody Michael was born October 22, 2010 at 9:41 pm after a very long induced labor. He entered this world at 36 weeks weighing in at 5 pounds 8 ounces and was 18 ¾ inches long. He needed to be watched for a few hours because he was having a little trouble breathing. But after some nursing and major snuggle time with Mommy he was perfect. A month later he is 6 pounds 3 ounces and 19 ¾ inches long! He is growing too fast (for Mommy) and developing perfectly. We all love him so much.

The second big event that happened this year was that Zane entered school. He is in preschool two days a week at Montessori House. We have seen so much growth in him and are loving how he is progressing at school. They are teaching very practical life skills while incorporating letters, numbers and other academics in the process. We are planning on having him continue here through the sixth grade. Zane is still very active and loves playing outside with Daddy and his friends. He loves going different places and always asks me “Where are we going when the Sun comes up?” He especially loves going fishing with Daddy and to the Zoo or Botanical Gardens with Mommy. He is still involved in AWANAS and doing very well there. We still can’t believe that we have a five year old. Zane loves his role as big brother and can’t wait to start teaching Cody things, such as jumping on the trampoline and hitting a baseball. He totally adores his baby brother.

As for David and I. We enjoy our boys and boy do they keep us busy. David is such an amazing father, husband and provider. I don’t know what I would do without him. He is kept very busy at work and is enjoying his job at American Discount Foods. We are truly grateful that God has continued to provide for us. I am busy keeping up with Zane and Cody as well as adjusting to this new role of life with a newborn and five year old. I am also involved in Moms On a Mission, which is a group of women who get together for fellowship, to grow in our faith in Christ and as mothers and wives, and to give us a break from “life” and to have adult conversation. We are adjusting to having two kids in the house and loving it.

This next year holds many unknowns. But we are so grateful that we don’t have to worry about it. We are looking forward to seeing Zane start kindergarten, watch Cody in his first year and continue to grow together as a family and couple.

Have a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed 2011. May God bless and protect you and your family.

Love,

The Perin Family

My Baby is FIVE!

2010-12-07T19:29:00.004-07:00

I can't believe that Zane is FIVE!

He had a great birthday, even if it was on Thanksgiving this year and he had to contend with a brand new baby brother. I hope I still was able to make it special.

First, we started with Thanksgiving on Wednesday night. I knew that I did not want to do Thanksgiving on his birthday because I would be fighting with him over the meal. Which I did not want. So we had an early Thanksgiving. All Zane wanted for his birthday meal was Barro's Pizza, which was difficult because they were closed for Thanksgiving. However, we were resourceful and called it in on Wednesday night and asked for it uncut. We also asked for them to spell his name out in pepperonis, which they did! Even if the picture does make it look like the Sun. We then did Zoo Lights like always.

The Birthday Pizza

For his friend party, we went with another family to Rawhide. The boys loved it! Especially the gun show. They were able to ride the train, a stage coach, burros, pan for "gold" and saw Santa. They had so much fun.

Zane's school also does something special for the kids on their birthdays. We got to be part of it and honored Zane. It is so special when schools do this.

Birth Part 2

2010-12-07T19:14:00.002-07:00

Now for Cody's part.

It is amusing looking back, know that it has been six weeks. But our nurse was betting what he would be, remember we did not know. Well up until about 5 pm Friday, she thought he was going to be a girl because his stats on the monitors were the best on the floor. Then she changed her mind! His stats kept going way down. Well, once he entered this world, he was a little noisy in his breathing. So they took him up to the transition nursery and gave him a chest x-ray, which daddy was there with him the whole time. They kept him there until about 3 am and then I was told he could be in my room for an hour. Well, the nurse came back and said that he could stay!!! After a little skin-to-skin and feeding, the noise went away. However, my nurse was very paranoid. She wanted him to go back ti the Transition Nursery. Luckily, his Dr. was on rounds and said he was fine and could stay. He reassured me that it was because these nurses are only use to 100% "healthy" babies, not preemies, with very slight issues.

Today he is a typical six week old, only smaller than most. He weighs 6 pounds 3 ounces and was 19 3/4" on Monday! His head has gotten huge (I am glad on that account that he came early)!

Newborn Photos!

2010-11-17T09:00:00.001-07:00

Guess what, I don't have time for blogging!!! But my dear friend who did our maternity photos has done it again with amazing photos of Cody and Zane. Go here to see! Thank you Tara!

Birth Part 1

2010-10-27T15:45:00.005-07:00

On Thursday I went into the Dr. for my normal NST and Fluid check ultrasound. At the ultrasound the fluids were lower than normal so the doctor came in and told me to go straight to the hospital! She was very calm about it and explained that the fluids were just below normal (5) and I was at 4.8. When I got there I went straight to a labor and delivery room and not the triage room. Which I thought the beds would be more comfortable, I was wrong.

After getting settled they started to induce me. This was a very long process because my body was not ready to give birth. They started me off on Cervidal (sp) which I was on for 12 hours (12:30 Thursday afternoon to 12:30 Friday morning). During this time Cody had some major decells in his heart rate. So I was attached to the monitors continuously! I was not able to get out of bed at all. This is where I changed my birth plan. I have tried to do the unmedicated birth while stuck on my back, and never again! Well at 2:30 am I was given my first gel, no change again. Then three hours later the second and three hours later the third. By this time I may have been at a 3 and 50% effaced. So this is where Dr. M came in (which is the Doctor we really wanted to deliver Cody! I was so relieved to find out he was on for a 24 hour shift and would be delivering Cody! An answer to prayer). He wanted the nurse to start the pitocin and then get David there (he was at the pumpkin festival with Zane) and then Dr. M would break my water. This was at 10 am. Well the nurse did not hear it that way. She heard, get David there, Dr. M would break my water and then start the drip! So at 1 pm, when Dr. M came back in and this was not done, the drip was started right away. I think he came in about 3 pm to break my water and add water back into the uterus because Cody was decelling again.

Well, once this was done, I asked my new nurse to put a catheter in so I was not asking to go to the bathroom every 45 minutes. The night nurse agreed! The drip was increased and finally about 6 or 7 I was ready for the epidural. Which surprised my nurse that I had not needed it before. My contractions were hitting 70 on the chart. I was just getting to where I was having to concentrate through them. About 8 pm Dr. M came in and checked me again was a 8 or 9 but still not fully effaced. So we waited. At about 9:00 Dr. M was in our room waiting and monitoring for almost 20 minutes. Then he stepped out and came back in. By this time it was go. We got the NICU staff down, just in case and the regular L and D baby nurse. At about 9:30 it was time to start pushing. I think there were 4 or 5 pushes and Cody entered the world crying!!!!!

Dr. M had David tell me what the sex was, and by the look on his face, I knew his prediction was wrong! He thought it was a girl. But Cody is a perfect beautiful boy!

I will give more on the next part, because this story is not done. But I need to get up and move. Enjoy the pictures. Which are in no particular order.

Baby Is Hear!!!

2010-10-25T19:17:00.003-07:00

Born Friday night!
A little early
and the sex is....

We named him Cody Michael. More info later.

Breath

2010-10-14T15:25:00.003-07:00

That is what I need to remember to do. Is just breath. These last ten days have been very emotional. First it started with my husbands grandfather passing away on October 3. We knew that this was coming but it never makes it easier.

Then I received a phone call from my mom to tell me that my grandmother had fallen, hit her head and that her and my dad we heading to Kansas. When they got there it was bad. She had some major internal bleeding on her brain and had been taken from the Hutchinson Hospital to the Wichita hospital where she was in a coma and the bleeding was effecting her nervous system. Her children followed her living will and took her off of life support. She died 35 minutes later on October 9. This was Granddad Easy's wife and the last time I saw her was 18 months ago right before Granddad died. I am so glad that I called her on Oct. 1 (Granddad's Birthday) but was so looking forward to introducing Baby to her in March, which she was looking forward to also.

I am still getting Non Stress Tests (NST) twice a week. Well, today was one of those days. Normally they are thirty minutes and I am in and out. Not today! It did not surprise me that my blood pressure was elevated today (after everything that has happened). But Baby had a major decell that did go back up. As a precaution, he wanted me to go to the hospital to be monitored. He also wanted me to have blood drawn, which I normally have done there, but she was out for the day (and I also think he wanted the results sooner than what it would take them to get). So off to the hospital I went. I was monitored, Baby was moving like crazy again, blood pressure taken a few times, all normal, and labs done, all normal. I was taken to ultrasound for a BBP and Baby passed again and my fluids were normal. So I was discharged and sent home!

I was told to go the the Dr. on Monday (already scheduled) and to do the normal things. What happened? Not 100% sure but it is thought that Baby somehow pushed the umbilical cord up against the uterine wall for a brief moment. But I don't have to worry about counting the movements, can feel them all the time (especially my diaphragm and ribs). The ultrasound tech was also able to see hair (a little mullet!) and I told her that is one thing I am looking forward to, seeing what color Baby's hair is. She jokingly said red! I laughed and told her that would be 3 for 3 for red heads!

Just crazy weeks and it is still hot. Really hoping to be joining my husband, son and in laws next Friday for the Pumpkin Festival at the Botanical Gardens, 2009, 2008, and we also went in 2007 for the first time. I love this and so does Zane but we are really glad that Daddy will join us this year. I would also like to keep Baby inside for another 17 days (at least). Even if it is still pushing the 100 degree mark here.

Reminder...Many who read my blog know this but tomorrow (Oct. 15) is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. At 7 pm in your time zone light a candle for your baby(ies) that you lost. I know that this was very special for me last year and I will be doing it again. I light a candle for Micah, my friends two boys, and then one for all my other friends who have lost a baby.

Breakfasts at the Zoo!

2010-10-02T11:18:00.004-07:00

The last two Saturdays we have been able to have Breakfast with the Tortoises and the Warthogs. We have done the Tortoise Breakfasts before and love it, but this time was different because it was with Nana and Papa! This was last weekend when they came to visit (which was much needed by Mommy and Zane).

Today, we fed the Warthogs with Grammie. This was a new breakfast that they have only had for two days (today was day two!). It was really a great time. The activities that were there for the kids to learn from were fantastic. They had this really cool pegboard maze that they used plywood, nails and rubber bands to get marbles (warthogs) to mud pits. There was another homemade game, like the peg board triangle game where you jump over until there is one peg left in the hole (can find them at Cracker Barrel) but the holes were borrow and one type of marble was aardvarks and the other the warthogs (Warthogs don't like to build their own holes so they will steal them from the aardvarks!) There were other fun learning activities too, the crafts I brought home because we did not have enough time to do them.

We then went out to the exhibit where the Keeper told us more about the warthogs and then lead us to the night houses. He had not let the males out to the yard yet, so those were the ones we got to feed. Boy were they excited to get their food. The kids could not get it in their mouths fast enough! Once he let them out into the yard the kids then filled up their toy ball with hay pellets and the Keeper threw the balls into the exhibit and we were able to watch the warthogs push the balls around and eat the pellets as they came out. These are very, very smart animals!

The one thing that the Keeper said that really made some sense is that the warthogs normally do not get in the mud at all in October. He said "I know that something is wrong when the warthogs head straight to the mud pits and roll around first thing in the morning when it is Oct. It is way too hot!" I must say, I agree! Does not feel like Oct. around here, still feels like late June and early Sept.

Photo Session!

2010-09-29T12:48:00.002-07:00

I am not huge on getting my photo taken. But, I really wish I had more than one belly photo when I was pregnant with Zane (he just came before we even would have thought about maternity photos). Then with Micah, we did some cute home ones. This Baby we did things a little differently.

I had a wonderful friend who agreed to come all the way across the city, before a date night with her hubby, and more pregnant than I am to do take our photos. Yes, they were outside too. Unfortunately, it is still very hot at the end of September. So Tara, thank you so much! They are beautiful! Thank you also for remembering Micah.

To see some of the photos click here.

Tara will also be taking pictures of Baby once he/she arrives. Which I can't wait to see her work with our little bundle. I have loved looking at other baby sessions.

Already Smiling and Kissing!

2010-09-23T16:21:00.004-07:00

Today I had another BPP. Baby did amazing! However, getting the cool ultrasound pictures have found to be difficult because of placenta placement and the cord. Today's tech took some extra time (because Baby finished before the 30 minute time frame!) and cut some of the interference out of the shot. She was able to get two really cool ones, Baby blowing a kiss and one of Baby smiling!

As for Zane. He is dong great in Preschool. He is learning so much and what I knew he had learned at home, he is starting to do without me prompting, like saying alphabet. Today for quiet time, which I thought would not happen, he called and showed me where he had set up "camp". Now he has done this before but never has he fallen asleep. I went to tell him QT was over, and this is what I found!

Yes, that is the floor with his bed, desk, and two walls which make an enclosure.

Happenings

2010-09-16T15:01:00.003-07:00

This week has been a week of many challenges. First, was some confusion at our appointment on Monday. I thought that I was suppose to have the OB visit along with a non-stress test. Well, no OB visit was scheduled (which I like having with David) and the non-stress test was not what I knew non-stress tests to be, it was a biophysical profile. Totally different, and much cooler! For those who don't know, a biophysical profile is an ultrasound that looks for four things: practice breathing, tone, movement, and fluid levels. The baby has 30 minutes to accomplish all four things. Every time one is done two points are given. Well, I am getting two of these BPPs every week for the rest of the pregnancy. On Monday, we had trouble getting baby to move, but Baby did! Today, along with the BPP I also had a growth ultra sound, I was in and out in less than 20 minutes!!! Baby ROCKED the BPP and measured 47%ile weighing in at 3 lbs 11 oz. (will get to this later).

On Monday night I went in to check on Zane (like I do before I go to bed every night) and he was burning up~ That is right, FEVER! No school on Tues for him and no MOMS for me:( Well I was up about three times with Zane that night, along with my trips to the bathroom. Of course Zane woke up felling great. However, that soon changed. His fever came back mid morning. So he was needing and whiny. That night, from about 7 to 10 I was having pain in my lower abdomen. After 10 it changed to more contraction like lasting about one minute and occurring ever three to five minutes. I called the nurse and she sent me to the hospital. This was 10:30. We took Zane with us. Luckily baby was doing well and after two shots of tributaline (sp) I was sent home about 1:30.

Thinking Zane would sleep in late in the morning I continued to sleep. How wrong I was, he woke at 8:00 and then did not take a nap~ Very tired mommy! But we got through and I have not had significant contractions since!

Back to the weight. So when the ultra sound tech told me the weight of Baby (3 lbs. 11 oz) I immediately thought of Micah. For he weighed 3 lbs 10.5 oz. I know exactly how big our Baby is right now. It is so bitter sweet. For this is where Micah stopped thriving. I am as big now as I was when I was pregnant with Micah. This is making my heart ache and miss having that special little boy in my arms. However, it looks as though my third baby is going to be my biggest! Baby is almost a pound heavier than Zane was and the same weight as Micah. Well, I will be getting the BPPs twice a week for the rest of the pregnancy and it looks like I will be having an OB appointment every week.

Crazy week. Emotional week. But God is sustaining.

School Bound!

2010-09-02T18:46:00.005-07:00

So, I never thought that it would be so easy to have Zane go off to preschool (let alone send him to school). It was actually really exciting. He was not sure about it, which I then found out why, he was a little scared (which is why I think he wanted his animals, blankets, and pillow with him).
But when he got there he was escorted to his classroom and I left. When I came back to get him he was waiting with the rest of the kids and jumped in the car. Then he proceeded to tell me all about the playground. When I asked what he learned he did not remember. But he did tell me that he took his folder out and gave it to his teacher! He did remember that. He was excited about how high he climbed on the jungle gym. He also told me that he did not eat his apple sauce (not a surprise). Once home I saw a little envelop in his bag and when I opened it there were little bits of paper. Zane then told me all about how they were to cut the paper on the straight lines. He did a great job of cutting straight and I think that he added some of his own lines (the ones to make them into smaller squares).
Zane heading off to preschool!I really feel that the school we have him going to is the best fit for him! I am so excited to see Zane take off!

Big Week

2010-09-01T14:46:00.004-07:00

This week is huge. First, Zane starts preschool tomorrow! I am ready for it. I don't think he totally understands it. So I am praying that he will love it and do well. Second, I am now in week 29. This was the week that Zane was born. It is a little surreal to know that I still have 11 weeks left in this pregnancy but also know exactly what to expect if Baby were born right now. I know how big, the devices that Baby would be on and what I would be doing in the NICU if Baby were born. I am really glad that I am not having to go through that right now.
So here is Zane just minutes after he was born. The sucker is the standard size, the diaper is a preemie (and still needed to be turned down). It does not look as though Baby will be coming anytime soon! I will be starting non-stress tests in two weeks and having them twice a week. Not looking forward to being at the doctor even more, but it will be so nice to hear this little one. The doctors are not concerned about my blood pressure (still normal for a pregnant woman) and I have not had any swelling, not even in my fingers but I still took my rings off (really don't want to have to cut them off). Baby is also very active. Baby had the hiccups on Monday when we were checking the heartbeat. So cute.

It is starting to cool off-100's instead of 110's. But the sun is rising and setting later and earlier which is cooling off the days and making the evenings so I can go out and enjoy them.

For those who do come to the blog, there is a poll going on to see what you all want us to have. It is interesting that most of you are wanting us to have a girl. We shall see!

New Side Bar On Blog!!!

2010-08-27T11:48:00.002-07:00

So those of you who want to voice your opinion of our baby's sex now have a chance to do so. I have set up a poll on the side bar of the blog and you can vote and see what everyone else thinks. Those that are reading this on FB need to go to the blog, or could just comment in the note. It will be fun to see what people think and want us to have!

Has to be a top 5

2010-08-23T18:44:00.003-07:00

So, after a friends blog that was talking about breast feeding and squirting milk out. I remembered an awesome cartoon that I found a while ago. It is a Baby Blues. So fun!

Could have my hands full

2010-08-21T15:25:00.003-07:00

I have heard that many moms know what their baby's personality will be like while in the womb. Well, I don't know how true that is based on my last two pregnancies. I was already sick by 24 weeks with Zane, which I think made him less active in the womb. Then with Micah, the problems were the same and my health made it difficult for him to be active also. Not so with this one. Can I just say that if this baby is as active as what Zane turned out to be, I will need four of me just to keep up with each of them. Both of my MIL's have seen my tummy moving and this one is active at all hours of the day and night. No real pattern, except the "wake up pee" at 5 am and pushing up on my stomach to cause heart burn about a hour before dinner. Love it, but it is making me nervous how active Baby will be.

27 Weeks!

2010-08-17T16:30:00.004-07:00

Well, I hit 27 weeks this week. Baby is looking really good. Baby measured right on, 41% of the age. Still think that the profile looks like Zane's. I am kind of hoping for another red head. I just love red heads. There are not too many of them and they are just so cute. I have been a little nervous about my blood pressure recently. It has elevated by about five points (top and bottom) which concerns me. Luckily, I had the doctor, who I was wanting to consult with before getting pregnant again but never did, talk to me on Monday. He was very reassuring as to my numbers and let me know that during 3rd trimester my blood pressure would increase and there is nothing to be concerned about. My proteins and blood pressure are still considered normal, even if they are a little high for me. They are watching me closely and I am keeping close tabs on my body and resting when need be.

As for Zane! We had a little play date with three of his friends (who are rough and tumble also) last week. For the most part it went great. They played outside for 30 minutes, then it got too hot:( and then we moved inside. For those who have not been to our home, it is small (less than 1300 sq. ft.) They did great and stayed in Zane's rooms (yes there are two). And they became a mess! Which was fine, until Zane decided that the puzzles we had started to work on needed to be emptied into one pile. So FOUR 100 piece jigsaw puzzles were in a pile. I was not going to "fix" his choice so I put them all into a ziplock bag for the next day. We started by separating the big and little pieces (two puzzles had bigger pieces than the other two), which took one hour. I gave him the choice of which two he wanted to start with. He choose the dinosaur puzzles, which he had done before. He proceeded to separate edges and inside pieces, another 30 minutes. Then he did the edges of the puzzles, about another 30 minutes. I gave him a break for lunch (along with some get up and run around breaks that did not last long). After lunch he finished the first puzzle. I think that was about 45 minutes. It was then time for quiet time, Mommy needed a break. Afterward, he finished the second puzzle, just before Daddy got home. I think it was another 45 minutes. By this time we were both done!

I so much just wanted to do the other puzzles myself, but know that would not teach him anything. So the next day we started the process over again with the last two puzzles. It took about another four hours. These two were very similar in colors so it was not as easy for me to separate the colors for him. However, when I asked if he likes puzzles, he still says yes! When asked if he likes doing four puzzles at a time? NO! I really hope this lesson is solidified into his mind.

I did take pictures, but have not figured out how to download them onto our new computer. Just don't have patience to figure it out right now.

The other big fun is that we were able to purchase a shed, finally! My hubby and father-in-law spent yesterday, in the awful heat, putting it together. They did a wonderful job! The best part is that all the junk is out of the yard and the yard looks clean and put together. The bikes are inside instead of outside the backdoor taking up poach space. Toys are also able to "disappear"! Now, here is hoping it stays this way.

I am gearing up for our fall schedule to begin. Luckily it will start slowly. First, and one I am looking so forward to is MOMS is starting up again!!! It is very much like MOPS. I will have two weeks of it before Zane starts preschool. He goes off to school, two days a week, starting right before Labor Day. I have really mixed emotions about this, but know it will be good for him. After that I it will be time to start gearing up for Baby's arrival. We do have names picked out, for right now, but I have not started to share. It seems like every time I do, someone ends up changing his mind. So, until he is solid, mum is it. We may just wait and reveal it all on the Birth Day. We still need to talk about it.

I am very much ready for it to cool down so we can start doing things outside for more than 30 minutes, but I think I have about six more weeks.

Super Yummy, Super Easy!

2010-07-29T18:38:00.003-07:00

Well, like everything else, I have been very much not wanting to cook AT ALL this summer. So there are a lot of easy, no think standbys that I do. But I am getting bored with those, and I am sure that my hubby is too. Zane, just won't eat most of what we serve, so not much new or different there. Plus, all that seems to stay down is chicken, and there is are only so many ways to do chicken that don't totally heat up the already hot house. In my normal, I don't know what to do but these are the things I have and I want a crock-pot meal I came up with the following:

I call it "Pick Your Own Mexican Food"

Chicken Breast (one per person)
Can of Cream of Mushroom Soup
Can of Green Chillies
1/2 can of Chicken Broth
Set Crock-pot on low for 4 hours
30 minutes before serving (or about) pull chicken out to shred then put back in mix til time to serve.

Here is where it is fun. I made mine into enchiladas and my husband made his into Chicken Tortilla Soup. I am sure there are many other ways to do this also, but that is what makes it fun.
Top it with cheese, sour cream, black olives, or whatever you want.

Summer Learning

2010-07-29T15:05:00.003-07:00

This is this wonderful blog friend that I have, and missed meeting by just a couple months before she moved from the inferno, recommended to me to help teach Zane how to read. It is Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons. Now, I am not pushing it and what is great is that they focus on phonics. Plus, with this pregnancy and the heat of the afternoon, I have also been letting Zane watch a little more tv than I ever thought I would. One of our favorites is Letter Factory, which has helped with the lessons. Here is what he wanted to do while reading this morning.

Sorry about the dogs. That has been too common lately as the HOA landscapers are spreading gravel (which has taken 3 weeks already). And yes, his pointer is a metal emery board!

Swim Time

2010-07-26T11:59:00.002-07:00

Swim lessons are over and with me being in the pool at the same time I had to make an effort to get photos. However, the second to last day was perfect. It was overcast which made for beautiful shots. He had so much fun and we were so blessed to have the same teacher as last year, and the year before!

Bobbing! By far one of my favorite pictures

Front Glide

Getting started on Back Glide

Miss K knows his ability so well. He is doing this with no help!

See Mom, I can do it. Aren't you proud of me!

So proud of your swimming improvements. I can't believe how much stronger he has gotten this summer. I think one more year til we try swim team. If he wants to.

22 Weeks!

2010-07-19T15:49:00.004-07:00

Well, I can't believe we are already 22 weeks, almost 23! When I went to schedule the next doctor's appointment they said it would be Aug 2!?!? What, August? Well, that is good because that means the oven here will be turned off sooner. The whole 110+ with humidity and pools that are not refreshing, but feel like a bath is not fun. Soon, we will be able to turn off the A/C and enjoy the out of doors once again.

Today was another appointment and one which they checked the growth of Baby! So another beautiful picture!

The Ultrasound Tech was amazing! She kept taking pictures of our little one and saying that Baby was so wonderful to photograph! When Zane saw the face he said "He has my nose!" and yes your chin too (according to Daddy). Baby was breech, which explains why I have sudden urges to pee and often. But at 22, almost 23 weeks, there is nothing to worry about in this position. She was able to get a good look at the spine, which we were not able to do last time and it looked great also. Of course David kept trying to get a peek at the sex, but again, the awesome tech did not even go there! Zane just calls Baby "he" because...

As for projects...I tried to some success, to do Marbled Paper with Zane. I have only done this with Jr. High Girls in the past at Outdoor Ed and it always turned out so beautiful. I was apprehensive because it uses acrylics. Well, I braved it because Zane was asking for an "activity" (art project). So I figured we would give it a go.
Found that it was so much cooler to blow on the paints than to swirl with a paintbrush end. He did great on dropping the colors in and keeping the droppers in their proper bowls (for a change). He had more difficulty spreading the drops around. For some reason he has always liked to put all the colors, stickers, glue, paint, in one spot.
This was nearing the end. I was going to pull the paper out and he decided that he was not done with it. SOOOOO
He added more to the other side of the paper!
The color got a little spread out with my encouragement. But he had fun! Now we can use the paper to send "letters" to people from Zane! I always love making this paper. It makes wonderful stationary. Depending on where you get the directions will tell you to water down the starch or not. I highly recommend watering it down. If you use straight starch the paper is too stiff and will not make good stationary.

Little Update

2010-07-03T06:39:00.003-07:00

Again, I know that it has been a long time since the last post. But that is what I get for living in Arizona and being pregnant in the summer. I am not doing very well with the heat and where our computer is located is the hottest place in the house. Therefore, I don't get on but to check email.

As for happenings. Zane was excepted into The Montessori House Preschool, so he will be going to preschool this year two days a week. I have mixed emotions about that because I did want to home school, but as we tried to do learning activities and I tried to get him to tell me stuff, he just refused. However, when I am not around, he does great. So, I guess I will be the supplement and support for someone else. He is also in swim lessons again, only for two sessions this year. He finished his first session last week and his teacher wrote "Excellent little swimmer. Loves the water, but can be a bit stubborn at times." Like that is something I did not know. Exactly why he is going to school. Him and Daddy also got season passes to SunSplash, a local water park here. Zane wants to go ALL the time and apparently has no fear.

Zane and Daddy are also on their way to California as we speak. They will be there for the Fourth of July Weekend for our church's conference, Together 2010. I wish I were there to spend time with my boys and friends. But Baby has changed so much this summer. Like, I don't get to go down water slides, travel, and have to stay in the oven for the entire summer. However, this is giving me the opportunity to really focus on some cleaning and organizing that I have been wanting to do but don't have the time because of a little man who requires lots of attention.

As for the pregnancy.....Well, we had our 18 week ultrasound and everything was beautiful. Baby's organs all look great and are functioning properly. Heartbeat was nice and strong and the doctors are please with how baby looks. For those who are wondering, we do not find out the sex until the birthday! I was having blood pressure issues, a little high, and some protein in my urine, +1, but at the Kidney Doctor appointment last week there were no proteins and my blood pressure was fine. All my labs for them came back normal, for a pregnant woman, which is really good too.

I am feeling Baby lots. I have a feeling that Daddy and Zane will not because of where the placenta is. All the movement seems to be towards the back and down towards my bladder (go figure) but I am feeling Baby.

Hope that everyone have a safe and wonderful Fourth of July! I am so thankful to be in a country where I can say what I want, wear what I want, believe what I want and have the amazing freedoms that so many in this World only dream about. Thank you to our our service men and women and their families, past, present, and future, for all you do to protect our freedoms. You are so important to us and we love you!

Still Here!

2010-05-21T18:42:00.002-07:00

Yes, I am still here, but have not really been on or had the time or desire to be on the computer. I have just started the second trimester and baby still looks good, but I am already having complications. It could be because they are being ultra cautious but not sure. So the roller coaster ride is on.

I am so thankful that it waited til today to finally reach 100! It doesn't matter because it is still hot! Zane graduated from Cubbies about a month ago, which was a lot of fun. We also went to Boyce Thompson Arboretum, which is amazing and somewhere we will go during the summer months. Today was another first. I took Zane peach and apricot picking at Schnepf Farms. We meet up with our neighbors down there and got some delicious organic fruit. The kids had a great time picking the fruits and I think they also added some from the ground because I don't remember picking some that were so bruised. We then had a snack of homemade Peach Cinnamon Rolls (YUMMY!) and rode the train that takes you around the part of the farm that has the festivals. On our way out Zane said "Mommy I had fun! I want to come again with Daddy!" As usually, as of late, I did not bring the camera~ But I did have a wonderful smoothie with fresh apricots and peaches!

2 Peaches (peeled and pitted)
1 Apricots (peeled and pitted)
1/2 cup plain fat free yogurt
1/2 cup Orange Juice
blueberries
sugar to taste
vanilla to taste
Ice
Blend til smooth

SO YUMMY!!!! I am sure that frozen peaches would be perfect too.