Life in Rochester

Sick boy

2011-12-04T18:56:00.001-08:00

So I'm trying out blogging from my new phone. This weekend was supposed to be productive in the house and a Xmas party with friends. It turned into us taking care of a pretty sick boy all weekend. Friday we had our kitchen floor done and Owen and I spent the day fighting a fever in the basement while all the loud hammering was going on above us. The rest of the weekend was taking care of O and trying to get things done before our realtor comes on Tuesday. Thank god Bryan was home to help, usually he's working. It's so much easier with two people! Here are a few pictures of our sick boy. He kept telling us he wasn't sick, he was happy. And I'm happy to say his manners didn't suffer... "no thank you" to everything!

August

2011-08-29T13:14:00.001-07:00

This month is the first time in a while where we have seen and spent time with Bryan for days at a time... it was wonderful. I can't believe some people get to do this every weekend! If you are one of these people, please be thankful!

Resting after hiking a bit in Taylor's Falls

Our little fam at the Falls

My birthday and Owen's half birthday "elephant" cake. We made it together!

Owen practicing

Muscles!

I swear half the pictures we have of Bryan this summer he is wearing his scrubs. When Owen see's Bryan in his scrubs he says, "Daddy work" or "Daddy OR?" Then he gets a little cranky.

New Chapter

2011-08-14T18:29:00.000-07:00

After looking at some old posts I realized that I need to start blogging again. There were things from my pregnancy with Owen that I didn't remember until I read it on here. That made me realize that I need to make the effort and get back into it.

After quite a rough winter I have learned a lot about myself and other people. Some people know that this past February we lost a baby after 14 weeks. It was the most difficult time in my entire life but I learned how wonderful some people can be. Some people who i didn't expect were the biggest support. Getting most of the bad news over the phone while Bryan was working all night was difficult but its amazing how empathetic and comforting a two year old can be when he realizes he's the only one there. Owen would sit in my lap, bring me kleenex, kiss me and keep me distracted. I learned a lot about what a child can do.

We were very blessed to not have to wait too long after to find out we were expecting again. This time the first couple months were pretty rough, stress coupled with some scares and extra ultrasounds. After finally some good news we were (mostly) confident to inform most people that we are expecting and due in February. Which means this baby will be born in Florida since Bryan is doing a rotation in Jacksonville, FL, January and February. The drive down could be interesting but the drive back up probably even more! I am still nervous and really wanting to get the 20 week ultrasound over so we know baby is completely healthy. But a growing belly and uneventful weeks help the wait.

So here is my first post to start off the new page in our lives. The next year could bring a lot of changes for our family as well as a new member!

Some kind of a record...

2010-04-09T11:59:00.000-07:00

Owen's favorite place to hide from Mommy- cuz I dont fit back there

Diaper issue- we ran out, I was out buying some, but Owen needed a clean one. Daddy is creative!

The babies are 1!

Sporting their jeans

Owen's 1st bday cake make by me... hand piped the Mickey heads!

Mommy's birthday boy

Not loving the ears

Getting brave

Tough guy face... also used when he is in trouble

So Jaclyn, ya happy?

Yikes

2010-04-07T12:39:00.000-07:00

I'm not even going to say anything... no excuse, I'll try harder next time!

Winter time

2010-01-07T12:21:00.001-08:00

We have had a nice winter, lots of snow but Owen and I enjoy being stuck in the house together! Here are some pictures from the last couple months...

Owen showing off his new hat in front of our 11 inch snowfall, in his p.j.'s of course!

Owen was really mad at us taking him out in the cold...

Putting the star on the tree, this year Bryan has help!

Decorating the tree

Owen loves his daddy

Mickey shirt that g-ma and g-pa brought back from DW

Mickey butt

My happy boy

Owen and Brooks, the baby I take care of now

Babe Magnet and beer

Hunting for our Xmas tree- he loves being in the Ergo on my back

Bryan showing O the trees

The tree I helped decorate for a charity

Me and my new cousin Teddy

Us with Jaclyn and Juliette on Thanksgiving

O looking at Juliette, he loves babies

My snuggle bug

Somebody slept on his Nuk at nap time!

Owen's 9 month pic... could he look more like Bryan?

Maybe he'll be a singer...

2009-12-10T07:41:00.000-08:00

Owen's 9 month pictures

2009-12-08T08:08:00.001-08:00

Here is the link to Owen's 9 month pictures... I can't believe he is already 9 months old!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/nikkiborchardtphotography/sets/72157622938984130/

Now I have to get my Xmas cards out...

Bad Blogger... darn good facebooker...

2009-11-12T11:46:00.000-08:00

At Mancini's for dinner celebrating Noelle and Rian's engagement!

Owen and Daddy cheering on Chris during the TC Marathon

My little bear

Some of the babies... at Naomi's wedding in Rochester

The only time Owen smiled for a picture when he wasn't distracted by the hay!

Me and my baby boy

He loves being outside

Daddy and Owen feeding the animals

About 2 feet!

Owen and Riley (Sarah's little boy)

For those of you who don't have facebook it would seem that I'm never on the computer! It is much easier to put pictures on facebook then to write about each one on my blog. My new goal is to post at least once a week, some pictures some without, just to do it!

We have had a busy fall with lots of trips to the cities, playgroups, meetings and trying to squeeze in family time. I love staying home and feel grateful I can just take care of one little one and be able to stay with Owen. I start taking care of Brooks once a week in December and then full time starting in January. I guess it'll be good practice for #2... in the far distant future!

So I will put up a few fall pictures...

Picture update

2009-10-13T09:13:00.001-07:00

Here are some pics... I wrote an update in the middle!

Owen and Grandpa

Owen and Auntie Noelle- I love this pic!

I love Mama's homemade baby food!

I think they might be related!

Owen, me, Ryker, Janell, Annie and Kat

I have been pretty busy being involved in way too many groups... Pediatric parties (which I run), two playgroups, Bible study, Festival of Tree's, and trying to get things done at the house! So Owen and I seem like we're always doing something or going somewhere. It is good for me and for him, he loves being around other people and rarely fusses outside of home. He also decided he is going to be a better napper, which means that of course he wont sleep well at night. This kid just doesn't need a lot of sleep and is still happy and healthy! Mama is tired but he seems fine! Sleep is starting to get to me but I'm just not sure what to do. For naps I get him drowsy and shush him to sleep and he takes anywhere from an hour to 2 which has been great. But sleeping was great, only waking up once to nurse. Now it's like he's having nightmares sometimes, he'll wake up, but eyes are closed and just screams, sometimes he wont even nurse because he's so upset. I finally calm him down but he is up every few hours, either hungry or upset or both. I thought we had this sleeping thing down... never say that!!!!

Anyway, he is one happy boy in spite of it. He rarely fusses and pretty much never fusses if he is around people. He is VERY social. Smiles and charms everyone! Just like someone else I know... and married! He is loving the baby food that I make and sometimes refuses store bought baby food. Luckily I like making it and its good for him! He is just starting on the puffs/cherrios but doesnt quite get how that works. He doesn't have any teeth yet which makes gnawing a challenge! He doesn't like drinking out of a sippy cup but will drink out of a regular cup just fine!

He started crawling a few weeks ago! Needless to say there have been some changes in our house! Baby gate up all the time, outlet covers always in and I pretty much have to watch him all the time! He moves fast! He is just starting to pull himself up on things which he seems to be enjoying making us nervous while we wait til he falls! The most said phrase right now is our house is... "you're ok!"

Here are some pics! I will put up new ones soon, we went to the Orchard and pumpkin patch last week!

Out for a walk in his REI onesie, and Kat's hat.... he kinda looks like a robber!

Owen and Jack lookin' like their daddy's!

Owen taking baths in the big bath now!

My big boy!

Helping with the laundry!

Counting my stars

2009-09-22T08:31:00.000-07:00

I haven't updated in a while, we have a new computer since the laptop crapped out so I'm still trying to figure out how to do pictures and things on this new one.

I needed to blog a little after a rough night. So as some of you know, a good friend of Bryan's had a baby boy, Amos about three weeks ago. He was born with a congenital disorder and has been on machines since he was born. On Saturday his parents made the difficult decision to take him off the machines. They were able to hold him while he took his last breath. We attended the wake last night. It was horrible. I knew that they were having an open casket but I didn't expect it to effect me as much as it did. I also knew that it was going to be difficult and sad beyond belief, but walking in and seeing a bassinet instead of a adult sized casket was almost too much to handle. The pictures were beautiful and they had a slide show that was done by a group called "Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep" its made up of photographers who volunteer to take pictures for parents of babies and are very sick.

Grandparents talked about songs they sang to him, holding him, watching the parents take care of their little one and it was heartbreaking. Josh, the dad, talked about what a wonderful wife he has and amazing Mommy. HE WAS AMAZING- if you have to go through this, that is the kind of husband you want. Attentive to her needs, being supportive and telling her things she needs to hear.

I dont know how you recover from that, ever. I came back to my parents while Noelle and Rian were watching Owen and I squeezed him so tight. I just dont understand why this happens? It's life, its sucky, it's unfair... all I can do is remember little Amos looking very peaceful in his bassinet with his little blankets and remember how lucky I am to have a healthy child.

After hugging Josh and Jess we walked up to the bassinet, it took everything in me to keep it together, I just wanted to pick him up and hold him. He looked like a little doll. He was beautiful.

Okay- I have to stop crying on our new computer. I just always want to remind people when things like this happen that life is short, there are so many meaningless things we get upset about, it's pointless. Since we found out about Amos, there has not been a day I take my baby for granted. I dont mind getting up in the middle of the night because I feel blessed I am needed to do that.

Please remember little Amos in your thoughts and prayers and when your children are giving you a rough day, be thankful they are there.

Love to you all!

Owen's 6 month pictures

2009-09-09T19:55:00.001-07:00

Here is the link to Owen's 6 month pictures. I was happy we were able to get a couple good family ones as well!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/nikkiborchardtphotography/sets/72157622322798612/

Half b-day and Owen's first wedding

2009-08-14T07:53:00.000-07:00

So this week one of my friends down here had a birthday party for our little ones. It was their half birthday! So she made half birthday cakes and we took lots of pictures! Here is the kids first picture- around 6 weeks.

Owen, Natalie and Bram

Now the babies at 6 months!

Owen just sat there, watched everyone and didn't smile or cry. He just took it all in!

All the babes with their half cakes!

Owen workin' his hat

Aren't they tough?

My little prince charming and his big smile!

Auntie Noelle and Owen at the wedding

Like Father like son...minus the big ears- I gave him those!

Nicole and I... we've been friends since we were about 6

The whole fam

Mama's boy

Our little fam- we have little blue spots in this one- stupid red eye thing messed up

Grandma and Grandpa

Post class...

2009-08-03T07:26:00.000-07:00

So last week was my last week of my 3 1/2 week class on tutoring kids with dyslexia. It was super intense but very interesting. My days consisted of getting up early, feeding Owen, eating breakfast and getting things ready for my day. Then I would pump before I go, come home at lunch, play with Owen for 5 minutes while my mom or dad made me lunch, then I would eat and pump. Whatever time was left I would play with Owen before heading back to class til 4. When I came home I would nurse, and study, somedays at the same time! I am so greatful my parents for staying with me so I could do the class and do it well. I am proud to announce that I was able to pump enough so that Owen didn't need formula. It took a lot of dedication and time, also some late nights that he slept through, I would get up and pump. But it felt like a big accomplishment so I am proud!

I didn't have much time to do much else but here are some pics from the last month. Owen learned to roll over the first time with my mom- which she LOVED! Now he is rolling all over the place, sometimes if I walk away I have no idea how he moved from where I put him! He is getting to be so much fun and easy to cart around.

Owen and my dad aka the Manny... they did this a lot! Owen was taking pictures on the laptop, I think he may take after his grandpa, he loves the computer!

This one is for Owen's godfather... enough said

Owen and his friend Colin (he is my friend from high school's son) They are around 6 weeks apart. And we didn't coordinate the outfits!

Auntie Carrie came down to watch Owen one morning I had class

He is starting to splash a lot during bathtime and loves his duckies

My favorite picture!

My happy boy

So happy with Auntie Noelle

Godfather Derrick brought Owen a shirt back from Chicago...
Owen and Jack checking each other out... they can't believe they're wearing the same thing!

Picture crazy

2009-06-29T09:21:00.000-07:00

Owen's new thing...

My happy boy! Looking at his Dad of course!

At the park

Reading with Daddy... this is what I saw when I got back from my pedicure!

I also saw this when I got back!

Random Moments...

2009-06-29T09:13:00.000-07:00

In our favorite chair!

Look how cute my boys are!

All geared up for baseball season!

He stares at his dad like this ALL THE TIME!

Besides my scrubby look, he really loves reading. This is one of our favorites!

My talented friends!

2009-06-29T09:05:00.000-07:00

My wonderfully talented friend Kat made this hat and booties. I wanted to do a little fashion shoot while I was airing out his little butt! I absolutely LOVE the hat!!! It is so perfect on his huge head!

We had to cover up the parts but I love the booties!

Tiff- the shirt is quite a hit! Bryan loves it!

Mommy Questions

2009-06-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

Owen is sleeping pretty great at night now, last night he was down from 10:30-6:00am!!! It was nice! But he still doesnt nap well. When he does goes down it takes a lot of rocking from me and the naps only last a half an hour. When I told my doc she said that some babies are just like that and it will probably get better especially when he eats more solids. But I still don't do the "lay him in the crib when he's drowsy and he'll drift off to sleep..." My ass! The only thing drifting off is me and it's to crazy land! I really prefer sleeping at night to good naps but is it too much to ask for both? So I'm curious people's opinions...

Should I work on putting him down drowsy?
Will he just learn how to fall asleep when he gets bigger?

I nurse him to sleep at night but during the day he eats, then we play for an hour or two and then I put him down...
I started a naptime routine, like bedtime with books, dimmed light and music...

Any suggestions or what did you do that worked or didn't work?

Isn't it sad when all your blog posts are about babies?

Also- I am making a vow to start cooking more, especially since Owen is getting much better at keeping himself happy. So I would love some easy, simple dinners, healthy would help too!

Kat- can i get the Chow Mein you made us before? It was yummy!!!

Thanks ladies!

Video- his friends the bear and bunny!

2009-06-22T08:21:00.000-07:00

2009-06-20T13:48:00.000-07:00

Just pics

2009-06-20T08:47:00.001-07:00

Motherhood...

2009-06-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

Since I am well into motherhood, being that Owen is 15 weeks old I was thinking about how things have changed. First off, I kinda feel like I dont get to talk to friends and family as much as I did or want to but I think most people understand.

I have never had so many questions in my life! How do you know you're doing well, besides the fact that your baby is alive! Does everyone go through this? Why does my kid not sleep as well as that kid? Do I let him cry it out? How do I teach him to self soothe without making him cry? Will he just learn that as he gets older?

How do I make time for myself? How do I make time for my busy husband? Is sleep more important that some time with Bryan? I guess the biggest thing I am trying to learn is BALANCE!

Since I'm taking this class for 3 weeks in July I have been pretty good at pumping because I am bound and determined not to have to suppliment with formula if I can help it. I have to say I am pretty nervous about being away from Owen for 8 hours a day for that time. I know it seems weird since most mom's at this point have already gone back to work but since I'm with him 24 hours a day I think it's going to be tough on both of us. I just have to keep telling myself that this three weeks will help allow me to not have to put him in daycare ever. But it's still hard. Luckily, I have my parents, sister and Carrie helping me out so I dont have to leave him with someone I dont know. I just have to come up with someone for the last three days and we are set.

I have to say I don't think I've ever loved someone/something so quickly so much in my life. The rough nights are followed by a happy, smiley and giggling boy- I think it's his way of making it up to me! We are still working out the kinks with sleeping. Some nights are great and some not so much but we're working on it together and hopefully sleep with triumph!

I have to say that there are a lot of times I get sad that I'm not in the cities. On rough days/nights it would be nice to take a break at my parents' or a friends. Or have more people to have a "playdate" with during the days. I have met a couple people here but no one I have really connected with as much as my friends, but more people are coming with the new crew of residents so I hope to make some new friends. It's really a lot harder the older you get!!!

But I have to say I feel lucky. My baby is healthy and happy. I am able to stay home with him which I am thankful of every single day (even the tough ones). I have a wonderful, helpful husband who encourages me to pump and get out of the house when he is around. My parents and my sister spoil Owen with love and stuff (especially my mom) and he loves them very much!

I count my blessings every day and understand it's not always this easy.

Thank you everyone for the support, Mommy advice, delayed returning of phone calls and thoughts! They are appreciated!

My big boy's 3 month pics

2009-05-28T10:01:00.000-07:00

Here is the link to his 3 month pictures! I can't believe how time flies! I have to recommend to do this every three months thing it is so fun to watch him grow!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/nikkiborchardtphotography/sets/72157618809639633/

Update... finally!

2009-05-18T08:05:00.000-07:00

So I know I've been bad at updating but when I get a minute I'm either cleaning, doing laundry, eating or trying to get thank you notes done.

Things are going well, my baby is sleeping well. He goes down between 9-10 and sleeps until between 2-3am, nurses for about a half an hour and then sleeps until 6am-ish. He nurses and goes down for a cat nap and wakes up for good around 8am. We nurse and then cuddle for a while- its great! I think what has really helped was our bedtime routine. Bath, books and nursing. I didn't realize how much it really helps, he seems to know it's time to sleep! He's not a great napper, sometimes half hour long and max hour and a half but those aren't too often. But I have always said, I can live with not a lot of napping if he's sleeping better at night!

I'm taking a class in July for 3 weeks to be able to tutor kids with dyslexia. It pays really well and I'd only have to work a few hours a week. I'm not sure how many students i'd get at first so i'm still looking for a nanny job to get us through until i know if the tutoring will give us enough money alone. I am nervous about a few things though- taking a class and being back in "school" and having to be away from my baby for 8 hours a day. I have to keep reminding myself its temporary and will allow me to stay home for good. I'm just worried because its just the two of us all day everyday most of the time. Also because I really have to start pumping more and freezing milk. So thats the update, looking for jobs has been stressful but hopefully it will all work itself out.

Next mission: to get Owen from his bassinet to the crib! He's already 3 months! Where does the time go? Its hard to remember life without him and hard to remember what free time was! But its totally worth it!

Bryan insisted Owen visit the Easter bunny!

Cuddling up

Bryan's friend Chris sent us all the U stuff! (I drool maroon and gold)

LOVES his star that lights up and plays music- thank goodness for baby einstein! Loves bath time- he's so calm he never cracks a smile Bryan, Uncle Rian and Owen cooked breakfast- note Owen holding the spatula
Addy holding Owen

Tiff's visit

Daddy makes Owen work

Kat's visit

Need income idea's!

2009-05-07T13:36:00.000-07:00

So the little man is getting big and Mama needs a job! We really dont want to put him in day care and trying to find a nanny job has been difficult. I know there are legit at home jobs but its word of mouth. I dont need to make a lot of money-just bring in something...

Please, please let me know if you have idea's or suggestions!

Pictures will follow. But you facebook people- my sister put some up from the baptism.

Quick update

2009-04-28T17:47:00.001-07:00

My baby is 10 weeks today! We survived the first couple months, shots, lack of sleep, Bryan's call schedule, lack of sleep, not showering, not leaving the house, leaving the house just the two of us, driving to the cities and lack of sleep... he's back to not sleeping well which has been the hardest part, i'm hoping it gets better soon!

Our little family

first stroller ride

how we spent the first weeks

O's godmama his first day home

Getting some love from his godpapa Derrick

Owen is being baptized on Sunday!

Sleep... or lack there of

2009-03-26T11:07:00.000-07:00

I will post pictures soon but I have a question...

My little guy is doing well, eating well, playing and getting big but he WILL NOT sleep in his basinett. He is kinda stuffy when he lays down so I called the doc and they said to use a humidifier, saline then suction his nose and prop a book under the mattress to help. He will sleep on my chest for 6 hours at a time at night but when I lay him down he wakes up within an hour. I am hoping these suggestions will help since I think that his stuffy nose is why he wont sleep laying flat. It seems to get worse when he is flat. But if that's not it... for all you parents, any idea's? I know he can sleep for long periods because he has done it two nights but both on me. Any suggestions on how to break him in there? I feel guilty not forcing it but if he stays asleep for hours at a time I am going to go with it because I'm so tired!

Please help! I'll take anything!!

My beautiful baby boy!

2009-03-17T16:01:00.001-07:00

Here are the pics from the photo shoot. It's going to be really hard to decide on what to get.

Any suggestions?

http://www.flickr.com/photos/nikkiborchardtphotography/sets/72157615411642487/

Owen's first photoshoot!

2009-03-13T16:34:00.000-07:00

Here is the blog of the photographer who is going to be taking his first year pictures...3, 6, 9 and 12 months.

Here is a preview of his first newborn pictures...

http://nikkibphotography.blogspot.com/

My cousin's birthing experience!!!!!!

2009-03-12T11:39:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this picture was from my family shower, its me with my two preggo cousins. My cousins Emily and Jaclyn. Emily- in the cream sweater was due about a month after me...

Lets just say the birth of her second child was quite dramatic!!! Check out the news story... YES a NEWS story- http://wcco.com/local/baby.born.kitchen.2.955757.html

Everyone is doing well and we're happy Molly and Mommy are healthy and happy!

More pictures...

2009-03-07T13:13:00.000-08:00

Daddy and Owen in his Twins blanket

Aunt Noelle and Owen taking a nap

My little frog legs!

In deep thought...

Naomi and Mattea came to visit

Owen in his disney shirt Grandma bought in DW

The tired family...

Grandma and Grandpa

The little peanut and Daddy on our first day home!

Momma and baby happy to be home

He may be a peanut but he's got great cheeks!

Quick update

2009-03-07T12:31:00.000-08:00

So I have a minute while Owen is enjoying his swing... I'll post pics later but I wanted to drop a note while I had quiet. So far things are going well, I am tired, yes, but doing well and happy! Bryan has been an amazing help, I know he feels bad that he needs sleep just as much as I do. He changes every diaper while he is home and makes sure I have lots of water and snacks before he heads off to bed and I head off to "night duty". Also knows as his favorite time of the day!!

Bryan has had three call nights since Owen has been born. The first two were on the weekends and so my Mom came down to help both times. Which I have to say was a god send because I was so tired and my mom would keep sending me to bed after I fed him!! My sister has been down a few little trips to help me out which usually ends in tears... same as my mom's visit. It's the only time since the birth that I have cried and felt a little out of control. I think having company is so nice that when they leave I am sad. Plus they start crying first which never ends well!

So far Owen has been a pretty good baby. He really only cries when he needs something or when his little tummy hurts. He LOVES to be held and basically will only go up to an hour in the bassinette or swing. If I want a good 2-3 hour span of sleep I put him on my chest and we sleep that way. I have been trying to break him into the bassinette so during the day I'll put him in there hoping he'll get used to it. Any suggestions for that?

We are all doing well, all tired but all happy! He is growing everyday, probably because he likes to eat so much! That has been a blessing- he loves to eat and has latched well. He likes to eat when he's hungry but is starting to want to comfort nurse too. As long as it keeps him happy and quiet I am fine with it!

Visitors have just started to come down, I think this week will be the start of the rush. It was nice to start to get used to the baby before we had lots of people visit. But now that we're kinda getting the hang of it I feel a lot more comfortable having people visit.

I appreciate all the emails, phone calls and text messages that people have sent. I have been pretty bad at returning them but I figure people understand. If I get a free minutes I'm either sleeping or eating! Now that he is getting used to the swing I hope to start calling people back!

THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND LOVE!!!!

Pictures to follow... promise!

Owen Charles

2009-02-20T15:01:00.000-08:00

Owen Charles Pershing was born February 17th, at 7:33pm. He was 6lbs 12oz and 18in.

I went into labor Monday around 6pm with contractions all night, went to the hospital around 7:30am and labored without meds until 2pm and I was 7 cent.

Epidural was a god send and made me feel like I had the energy to push.

I started pushing around 6:15 or so and after a little over an hour he was born! We are very lucky everything went to smoothly and are now enjoying our little boy!

Here are some pictures... I hope to update this with more details later!

Bryan and Owen- aren't genetics crazy?!?!

multi tasking

happy its all over

Baby footprints

Auntie Noelle came and helped the first couple days!

Grandpa Charlie

Grandma Debra

Right after... still over whelmed, tired and happy!

The first time I saw my little boy...

Things went so well and smoothly for us. Bryan is the most amazing father and loves this little boy more than anything.

I am so blessed and lucky to have such wonderful boys in my life!

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-14T09:12:00.001-08:00

Yes, I am due, and no I am not in labor. I'm pretty tired of talking about it so lets talk about Valentines Day instead.

Ten years ago today Bryan and I celebrated our first Valentines Day together. This night consisted of Bryan making spaghetti at my parents house. We had the table all decorated and the house to ourselves. (Nothing more exciting than that in high school!!)

I don't remember what I got Bryan but he gave me a very beautiful diamond ring. It's not quite the size of my engagement ring but I like holding them up next to each other! I was so excited to get it and even more excited to wear it to school the next day. But then my parents saw it and weren't quite as excited for their 18 year old to get a diamond ring for her boyfriend of four months. So the diamond went into hiding, not back to Bryan like it was supposed to! Oops! But since we have been married for 3 1/2 years and have a child coming any day I think it's safe for the ring to come out of hiding!

Since all we have from that first V-day is a picture of the table and Bryan making food AND since they're not digital I don't have a pic to post but here is one that is back from 2005, before we were engaged. I do want to scan some of our high school pictures to look at how young we were!

It's hard to believe that it's been 10 years!

I am very lucky!

39+ appointment and picture

2009-02-10T15:50:00.000-08:00

Ironically, I am breathing through a pretty rough contraction as we speak... so here's the update. My appointment today went well, I am a "tight 2" and 60% effaced. She stripped more membrains to try and "stir things up" so we'll see how or if that works. I would be really happy to go in next week because my doctor is on night call and the Chief Resident I like is on labor and delivery that week too. Otherwise if no go they gave me an induction date of Tuesday, February 24th. Yeah- TWO weeks from today! Ahhhhh! I really hope I don't have to go that far!

Things are good, slowly but surely moving along and we'll see what happens!

And now for some pics...

39 weeks

I wish I could capture how big it really is but here is a taste...

Question for Mom's

2009-02-06T11:04:00.000-08:00

Since I'm sitting here just waiting to pop I had a thought. For all you Mom's out there...

How did you start labor? Were you induced? Did your water break? Did you start having contractions?

Were you early? Were you overdue?

Everyone keeps telling me that they tried things to get labor going and nothing really worked. Anything work for you?

I'm getting pretty uncomfortable and since we have everything ready I just want to get him out. I have also decided to stop watching 'A Baby Story' and 'Bringing Home Baby'. You know you're ready to be done being pregnant when you root for the "natural birth plan" Mom's to have bad labor and get an epidural!!! The show used to make me cry or get excited and now I'm just jealous that they aren't pregnant anymore!

So- I'd love to hear some labor stories, it might help me live through your labors!
I'll take a picture tomorrow, but I haven't gained any weight so I'm not sure if I look any different. Think contraction thoughts...

So close... yet so far!

2009-02-05T08:46:00.000-08:00

Well I was waiting to update this with a picture but I'm going to be honest, I'm too tired and I dont think my belly has changed much. I will be 39 weeks on Saturday. I went to the doctor on
Tuesday and here are the stats:

-My bloodpressure is still nice and low. I haven't had any swelling which is nice. I still have my wedding ring on- no problem! I am grateful for this!
-I haven't gained any weight in a week, (Apparently some women dont gain any or lose weight in the last 4-6 weeks) I thought this would be my big weight push but apparently it's all baby!
-Baby's heart rate is good- 130's to 140's, while she was trying to find it he was moving and she could clearly see he was in there!
-Then she checked me: I am dialated to 1, easily. Then she decided to check and see if he was moving into position, which led her to strip some membrains and make ME want to cry! She said things looked good and she could see there was "progress" taking place!

So things are good. To be honest I'm getting pretty uncomfortable, not just sleeping but trying to get up off of a chair, picking something off the floor or doing anything that doesn't consist on sitting on my ass. Which is convenient because that's what I do most of the day!

Baby's room is pretty much ready, we just have to put some stuff on the walls, so I will take pictures of it this weekend and post them. I am really happy with how it turned out.

I think that the last couple weeks of pregnancy are really good for being really "over" the pregnancy phase and just wanting to meet your baby. Even though we're really nervous and not sure we're ready, the more uncomfortable I am the more ready I get! It's also a weird feeling just waiting for something to happen. It's pretty surreal to get up everyday just waiting to go into labor! There are two friends of mine down here who I met through nannying and they're both pregnant. Danni WAS due yesteryday the 4th, I am due the 14th and Naomi is due the 24th. We are all hoping to go in at the same time!!!

So, depending on how things go in the next few days I will post again after my next appointment on Tuesday, which will hopefully be my last! We'll see...

37 weeks, 3 days...

2009-01-27T17:33:00.001-08:00

Ok kids, I'm officially at 37 weeks 3 days. You know you're getting close to the end when the doctor says, "okay, you can come in any day and have that baby." I'm thinking, yeah... oh crap, she was serious! I had another doctor's appointment today which went well. Same thing as last time, by BP is nice and low, my weight is good, baby's heart rate is good and I am measuring right on. Next week they'll start checking me. I have dropped, I feel it for sure, but I still don't think much is happening or will for a couple weeks. I am enjoying getting ready and relaxing. Thank goodness my parents are giving me this gift of staying home, I think it really helps me feel prepared and be rested enough to be as ready as I can for his arrival! Even the doc said to me today that she just read a study that said that women who have time off BEFORE they have their baby have a better post pardum experience!

Bryan and I are very much prepared now and just enjoying time together before the baby comes. I really appreciate his one day off a week and try to suck in as much time as I can!

Here are some pics as promised!

Belly

My favorite new picture- Bryan folding baby socks! About the cutest thing ever!!!!

Officially dropped and term!

2009-01-25T10:23:00.000-08:00

No fun pictures this time, I will take one today, I'm trying to do it every week since the belly seems to change that fast right now. As of this past week we pretty much have everything! Bryan has been putting the swing, bassinette, crib and things together and now that we have the changing table he is going to put that up on his day off.

Thursday night Bryan was oncall and my sister came down after work to hang out with me for the night and then drove to work in the morning! It was so nice to have company especially when Bryan is gone over night! I am spoiled to have people come down for a couple hours!

My parents came down yesterday and took me to lunch while Bryan was at work. We went and made our final Baby's 'R Us run getting everything we still needed. It feels good to have everything we need, takes the stress off in case he comes soon! My mom also finished the shall she made for me, it is my home comfort and labor comfort, probably breastfeeding comfort later on too! My parents have really spoiled me and their grandchild with buying stuff, giving us great gifts and just being there when I need them! I am grateful and so glad I have such great parents!

Carrie's sister Krista also came this week to help me out. Not only did she take me to lunch last weekend but she came over to bring me some baby boy stuff but also showed me how to use the pump! That knowledge is priceless!

Last but not least my hubbie! Bryan has had a really hard month, working so much! This week he was oncall for about 28 hours, came home slept for about 6, went back to work at 5am for a 14 hour day and went back to work this morning for another 8-9 hour day. I don't know how he does it and keeps his sanity. He is never crabby, and still does so much around the house. He'll take the garbage and recycling out at 4:30am before he leaves, he takes both cars to fill up gas, fill tires and get car washes, all before he goes in for his 28 hour shift. He amazes me! I know nothing will change when the baby comes, he will do whatever he can while he's home and not complain. I'm a very lucky wife!

So... all in all things are good. I go to the doctor again on Tuesday, I have dropped quite a bit in the last week so we'll see what's happening. I'm still convinced I'll go around my due date, but we'll see!

Happy Obama Day!

2009-01-20T07:23:00.000-08:00

I feel pretty lucky that today I will have my butt parked on the couch watching endless coverage of the inaguaration. It feels like something exciting is happening and people are starting to unite. To have more unification in this country and in congress is so important and I hope it continues. I realized that this is the first president that I have actually voted for!

I'm happy to bring a child into this world with a new president and what I feel is a wonderful change in our country! FINALLY!!!!

Okay- now to the baby... I had a doctor's appointment last Thursday and things went well. Baby boy is head down, my fluid looks good and she checked me and nothing is happening! We also pre-registered which was a little surreal I have to admit. So all is good. I go in every week now, this week I will go in on Wednesday and get checked out again...

Baby stuff is coming together and Bryan has been putting one thing together each day, and he's got a lot to put together!

Here are a couple pictures!

36 weeks

Our bassinette... Bryan put this together even though he was post call!!

Bryan was making me laugh because of his reaction to the huge belly!

35 Weeks

2009-01-14T13:35:00.000-08:00

Here is my 35 week picture... I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow. I was able to schedule it on Bryan's day off so he can be there since she is going to pull in the ultrasound machine and see which way this little one is laying. She is also going to check me and we'll see if I am going to start coming in every week or if I get to wait another two for my next appointment.

Wish me Luck!

My photoshoot

2009-01-08T20:57:00.001-08:00

So last weekend I was supposed to go up to Duluth to have Kim takes some maternity pics for me. Weather was supposed to be crappy so I ended up not going. No one wanted to be responsible for the pregnant lady driving in the snow! I was very sad but then I remembered that my cousin Jaclyn had a good photographer from her wedding and thought I would take a chance and see if she might be able to take some pics for me. I really didn't want to wait any longer and be more uncomfortable or not be able to drive up to the cities. Luckily she was available and it worked out. She was awesome! She was also pregnant and had two other kids so I was very comfortable gettin' down to my skivies... here is her blog, she has 8 pics on it. I don't like the first one too much, but the last one is my favorite! I am excited to see all the images in a week or so.

Let me know what you think! http://stulagu.bigfolioblog.com/

Christmas pics

2009-01-08T14:13:00.000-08:00

So Christmas was good, different this year but good. Bryan worked Christmas Eve and got done around 6. I made dinner and we had a nice, quiet dinner just the two of us. On our holiday placemats though! Bryan fell asleep around 9, while I watched Christmas movies!

He was supposed to work on Christmas day but the numbers were low so he just had to do some notes from home on the computer. He woke up around 6am, did his work, then woke me up to let me know that Santa came and we should open the presents!

He talked me into it and we opened presents, from each other and Santa. My favorite present was from Bryan- it was a book written by Chris Farley's brother called, "The Chris Farley Show."

33 weeks

Baby and Noelle

Rian and Noelle

Bryan and the baby's new hat

Bryan on Christmas Eve and post call.

Merry Christmas... I'm huge!

2008-12-20T12:56:00.000-08:00

We decorated the tree and tried to take a picture ourselves!

This is Bryan's favorite picture... yikes!

It wasn't until this picture did I realize how big I am... 31.5 weeks

Yeah, we're mature enough to have a child!

I hope everyone is doing well and having a wonderful Christmas!

Weekend Update...and Baby Jack!

2008-12-14T12:07:00.000-08:00

This weekend I wanted to try and see as many people as I could before I get huge, uncomfortable and don't have the energy to run around. So I left Friday afternoon and drove directly to the hospital to see Amy, Conor and my new godson, Jack! Then I went to dinner with some friends from high school. Baby Pershing got a new twins outfit from Maria, it's adorable!!

Saturday I went to visit my first baby, Caleb. Okay so he's not mine but I did hold a leg and was there when he was born. I changed his first "tar" diaper and held him while he was only a couple hours old while his Mom slept and I couldn't stand leaving him in the nursery. And now look at him! He is 2 1/2 and speaks in full sentences. I'm going to try and post a video I took because he is so funny!!! I caught a quick picture!

Molly and I met on Saturday for coffee, we also brought along our little boys... I have one cookin' but she has TWO little boys cookin' in her belly!

This is us, I am 31 weeks and Molly is 21 weeks!

And now... introducing, Baby Jack Anton Chaput!

Amy, me and Jack only about 12 hours old. Doesn't Amy look great!

I had a great weekend and tried to fit in seeing a lot of people. I had lunch with Meghan which was also nice. Saturday my mom and I went to the yarn shop on Grand for me to pick out colors for the baby blanket and yarn for the shall that she is making me. Then we went to church and came back and I ate pizza with my parents and watched "It Came Upon the Midnight Clear." It is one of my favorite Christmas movies. Its a made for TV movie from 1984, with Mickey Rooney and the red head from ER.

The weather was supposed to get a little sketchy on Sunday so I had to cancel some plans on Sunday but I'm glad I got home without much trouble.

I hope everyone is having a great holiday season!!

30 Week freakout

2008-12-09T09:24:00.000-08:00

30 Week Picture

Okay, so I just had my 30 week doctor's appointment and it went well. Bryan was able to come since he was off that day. It was nice to have him there, he really hasn't been able to come to any of them, besides the dramatic in and out appearance at the big ultrasound. So- weight is good, which my doctor was very careful about telling me how important it was for me to not gain too much. She didn't want me to try and get a 9 pounder out of this 5'2 body. She told me my weight looked excellent. Since I get to gain a pound a week, the last two appointments (a month apart) I have gained 3.8 pounds, not bad huh?

My blood pressure is nice and low which she was also happy with. And baby's heartbeat is around the 150's.

She measured my belly and I am measuring right on, then she felt around a bit and thinks he's head down, so please cross your fingers he stays that way!

All and all our stats look good! I go back in 3 weeks, then 2 after that, then EVERY WEEK!

Are you ready for that? Yeah, I'm not... this seems to be happening fast and whether I'm ready for it or not!

I am starting to get tired, heartburn is starting to make an appearance which is really great! Otherwise I really can't complain. I am working, not full time but working as much as I can, but will be done mid January- I'm excited for that!

We finally registered at Baby's R Us, which I was happy to get out of the way, and I decided not to register at Target. Everything I want they have at Baby's and it'll save another trip.

So this is where all you come in. Since I'm totally freaking out and needing some advice please give me some advice. Anything you know I will NEED, any info you wish you were told, just basically ANYTHING! My best resource are my mommy friends!!!!!

I am bummed that Bryan has a really busy three months and wont be around as much as most dad's. He doesn't even get more than two days in a row. It is hard, especially since he has been so awesome through the whole pregnancy. He supports my cravings, tells me I look good when I feel like a whale and likes to feel the baby kick just as much as I do. Since we don't have a lot of people down here, when he is home we spend a lot of time together and it has been so nice. It was hard to get used to him going to back to 80 hours a week when he had a week off (since he didn't get called during his on-call week) plus our vacation. To make myself feel better I realize how many women have to do all this alone, without a supportive partner. Even if he's not here as much as other spouses get to be, when he's here he's wonderful and I know he will be even more amazing once we have someone else to take care of. I'm very lucky, and I really try and remember that every day. Especially the days I feel sorry for myself when I see all the spouses in the waiting room at the doctor, or talking about paternity leave or 9-5 kinda guys who get weekends and evenings off. I know it could always be more difficult and we are lucky to have each other, a home, Bryan has a wonderful career that he loves and someday will pay our bills!

Wow- I didn't know I was going to go there but apparently I needed to let that all out!!!

So, what I really wanted to say is, I would love some emails or comments on advice. I am in need of any advice, small or not to help me get organized in the baby's room and in the house, mentally and physically to be as best prepared as I can. Yes, I know, there is nothing I can do to fully prepare but at least a little prepared?

At least I've held a leg during labor right? That's gotta count for something...

This is how I want all my pictures to look like, but Bryan makes me smile...

This is how I really feel at 30 weeks!!!

Disney '08

2008-11-30T09:48:00.000-08:00

So we are back from Florida, and I am exhausted but we had a really amazing time! So, here are some pictures from the trip!

Noelle feeling the belly before fireworks at Epcot, my uncle Jeff in the background.

With Pocahontas at Animal Kingdom

Bry and Jeff doing their best gorilla impression

Bryan, loving Animal Kingdom! Can you find him?

So this was my first and only hormonal breakdown at Disney. It was another ride I couldn't go on and I was just sick of sitting out since I love rides. So I had a mini break down. Thanks to my mom who got off the ride to be with me during my crying fest... happiest place on earth... if you're not pregnant! Bryan wanted to capture the crying!

In front of the Tree of Life, it looks like the belly is escaping from my shirt!

Noelle and I before A Bugs Life sporting our glasses

George, Jeff and Noelle giving me some sympathy while I tried to give my back a little break.

Bryan, Rian and the monkey from Jungle Book

Care- this picture is for you! We ate at this amazing Irish Pub in Downtown Disney, they had live Irish music and an Irish dancer, plus the food was awesome!

George, Noelle and Jeffie on the boatride to Downtown Disney

Bryan made me take a picture in front of the alien from the movie "Alien" look at that belly... yeah he is growing!

The whole gang before the show

Noelle, Mom and I in front of the castle, doesn't it look gorgeous?!

Bry and I at dinner in Japan... in Epcot

Mom and Dad in Epcot, aren't they cute?

Our fam at Epcot

Bryan and I in Venice... Epcot

This was the day we flew in, I was a little puffy and tired but we were excited to be in the Magic Kingdom!!

Me and Noelle

So that was our trip! We had a great time, and I think it came at a good time for me. It it would of been any later I think I would of been struggling. My Mom bought a "Mommy to be Massage" at The Grand Floridian and that helped a lot! It was wonderful because we were all there and Jeff and George were able to come down and hang out. It was nice to have a trip with the family before the baby comes. And now, onto Christmas!

Some baby stuff to share!

2008-11-16T09:31:00.000-08:00

So since we're moving in on three months left I thought we should probably get the baby's room ready, not a bad idea huh? I know there are a lot of people who would have already finished everything but I didn't want to do the room by myself and this week Bryan has some time to paint. He has a float week which means he carries the pager ALL week, 24/7 and hopefully he will not get called in. Everyone think non-paging thoughts!

So a couple weeks ago I was getting really frustrated about trying to find bedding. I didn't want any "themes" so finding just colors I like was becoming difficult. But thanks to Anne B. (who should have her own blog- but that's another story!) who sent me a couple links I found the bedding I love! Then I googled it and found it even cheaper at JCPenny! What did people do without Internet!!!

So here is the bedding, I think we're going to paint in the bright green... whatta ya think?

And here is the bassinette! I really needed something small because our bedroom isnt very big. I also wanted something that rocked and something I could wheel out of the room in case I had to. I love the neutral colors and it also has music with it!

So, that is where we're at. Although thanks to friends and family buying us gifts and giving us their stuff we are very lucky and have a room of stuff! I am excited to get the room finished, I think that will make it seem very real.

I think what's scary is now when I read my week and what's going on it tells you the chance of survival at this point. This week if my baby was born he would have an 85% chance of survival. It's scary to think of but crazy too!

I passed the three hour glucose test which is good because if I had to give up doughnuts and sweets it would of been a LONG three months. It wasn't fun but I can't complain, I have had a very smooth pregnancy so it's a small thing to do.

But things are going well. This baby kicks so much, but I figured out where it's coming from. My wonderful husband likes to drum on everything. The table at the restaurant, the coffee table, basically anything that makes noise he will tap. I think our son is taking after his father and is drumming on anything he can find!!! It's a crazy feeling but so nice to have a reminder that someone is in there.

My sister and Rian were down for a couple hours and Noelle got to feel some good kicks, everytime she would jump! There were some good ones for her, which I think helps other people start getting attached to the baby. I totally get that. I was always the first one to feel the belly on everyone else!

So, this was going to be a short post but oh well! We are off to Disney on Saturday morning! Our flight leaves at 7am, Bryan is on call until midnight. So we have to leave Rochester around 4am, pick up Rian and get to the airport around 5:30! Yikes!

I had to move up a size in scrub pants...ehhh!

2008-11-10T18:14:00.001-08:00

Things are going well and this baby is growing! I just had a doctor's appointment following the failure of my glucose test. I missed it by 3 points so now I have to go take the 3 hour test, I'm not looking forward to that. But my doctor wasn't too concerned and either was Bryan so it'll just be a pain for that day. Other than that, baby's heartbeat was good, between 150 and 160. She measured me and I am measuring right on, which is really nice to hear because everyone and their mother has been telling me I am tiny for how far along I am.

I have been able to develop a really great symptom of pregnancy; nose bleeds. I have been doing all I can to help it and the doc is going to test me just to be on the safe side. But a really attractive side effect huh?

The baby is kicking a lot, he is still kicking in the morning and at night but I still get kicks throughout the day. The doctor said to count at least 10 kicks within 2 hours just to make sure they baby is doing well. It takes me about 5-15 minutes to count 10 kicks. He is always moving!!! It is fun and comforting but sometimes in the early morning I'd rather he sleep a little more!

In less than 2 weeks my parents are taking my sister, Rian, me and Bryan to Disney World for 5 days. I am very excited to have a little vacation with my family before the baby is here and have some time to relax. Although I don't have a maternity bathing suit and there's no way I'm buying a new one for a trip, so we'll see how that one goes!

I have about 2 months left of working before I am going on maternity leave after the first of the year. And by maternity leave I mean my parents are going to help us out. My mom said that the best gift she could give me was giving me time off before the baby comes to relax and get things ready without having to work. So I am excited for that, and very thankful they are helping us out. Financially, I am barely helping to pay a bill or two so it's nice to not stress about money knowing that we have some help when/if we need it.

We bought the bedding for the baby's room and also bought the bassinnette so we're on our way!

Here is the belly, in all its big ol glory!

This is my favorite maternity top/sweater that my mom bought me!

The day after the election...

2008-11-05T16:21:00.000-08:00

I am going to preceed this post letting you know that it's going to be political so if you don't agree with me you may want to skip this one, it's totally your call!
***************************************************************************************

I have to say that after watching the coverage last night I was so inspired and excited. I know that many people don't agree with my opinions but because of how big this is, I need to get it out of my system. I was very excited to see so many new voters, especially minorities. This country was built on minorities, we have no national language, we are all immigrants. I think for one thing young african americans can look up and strive to be a president because there is someone in the white house who looks like them. It is inspiring!

One thing that bothered me was when people said that they were angry that black people were voting for Barack just because he was black. Really? It seems like after the exit polls there were more white people who voted for McCain because Barack was black. I would rather have people vote FOR something than AGAINST something.

Call me an idealist but I went into social work because I believe that people, ALL people deserve a shot at a great life. I have seen and worked with plenty of families who were never given a chance and even with hard work can't get out of the hole. I have never seen a canidate, (besides Paul Wellstone) where he was an idealist, where he came from a "normal" background. Not a lot of money, single mother, and worked hard in his community to make it better. To me, those are the people that should lead the country.

I thought that McCain had a very good speech. He was insightful and gracious and I really enjoyed his speech. (Although all the boo-ing was pretty annoying) I feel that Obama is a uniter and will really try and make things work with both sides. This country is way too divided and I would like to see Americans come together during this time.

So, anyone who actually read all this- wow, you must be bored, or agree with me, or really pissed off right now! Either way, I'll take it! After 8 years of Bush I feel excited for our country and proud that we elected Barack. No more telling people you're Canadian when you travel outside of the country!

Now bring on the Christmas commercials!!

I have officially popped!!!

2008-10-12T19:19:00.000-07:00

Ok kids, apparently I look pregnant because I have started to get asked when I'm due at least 2-3 times a day at work!

Here was my 14 week picture...

And now my 22 week picture
Here is my fireplace picture
Now, I decided that since I am looking pregnant and I always wanted you girls to take bare belly pics that here are a few of mine!

Bryan was on call when I got up the energy to take them so keep in mind that I took these on my own!!

I think this one is the best one to show the belly!
So, now that I am getting bigger and people are starting to ask me questions it is nice that I finally FEEL pregnant because I FEEL the baby! I had been feeling him a little at night but not until this week has it been more regular and kicks instead of fluttters. A few days ago Bryan got to feel the baby which was good! I also have been able to see the little kicks once in a while.

I was laying on the couch, and my belly was itching so I started itching my belly, I stopped and a second later there was a little poke in the same place. Apparently he doesn't like the itching!

Also, this little one seems to get up when Bryan is getting ready for work, around 4am. Bryan came in before he left and I told him his son wouldn't stop kicking, he told the little one to go to sleep, and I kid you not- he stopped! It was really funny! I hope that is not a look into the future!

All and all things are going well. Feeling lots of kicks, feeling pretty good, some tired days but for the most part I have a good amount of energy. I have my monthly appointment on Monday but things are good!

Trip to the Apple Orchard

2008-10-12T18:29:00.000-07:00

Last weekend while Bryan was working, like always, Sarah and my sister came down to visit and keep me company. We went out to a nice lunch and since it was such a nice fall day we decided to try and find an apple orchard. Since my phone has internet, my sister looked it up as I drove around. It was only about 20 minutes away and we had a blast! Here are some pictures!

Sarah and I on the tractor

My sister thought the baby should have a picture of his first tractor ride!
Me and Noelle, and the top of Sarah's finger!!
Sarah, me and Noelle in the pumpkin patch
My sister also thought the baby needed his face in the ghost, it took a little work but I got him in there!!

20 weeks

2008-09-30T20:59:00.000-07:00

So, our big ultrasound under our belt and I'm feeling good. Well I am starting to get a little back pain but I think it's because I'm not sleeping well since I used to be a stomach sleeper. I don't like body pillows and it's hard to sleep with a pillow between my legs. Any advice?

I am starting to feel him kick more now so that has been fun and makes it feel a lot more real. Bryan is getting frustrated he can't feel it yet, but I told him soon!

Although I don't know a lot of husbands who try to feel the baby kick and instead says, "wow, your uterus is huge!"

Luckily scrub pants are easy access for us so that is nice for p.j.'s!

My 20 week picture

Do you like our fireplace? I thought it was much better than a boring wall!

Random thoughts and updates

2008-09-30T20:35:00.000-07:00

So things have been going well but Bryan has been working so much I hardly remember what he looks like, especially in the day light! This month he is in the ICU and goes in at 4:30am and gets home around 8pm. He has a snack says, "wanna watch a movie?" or "how was your day?" and by 9pm he's sleeping. I feel so bad, he works so many hours and still has to do work from home. Luckily they say next year should be a lot better but he will have the same kind of schedule for February when the baby is due so I'm hoping to go a little late. March he has Neuro and will have a much better schedule. ( I am fully aware that by the middle of February I might be whistling a different tune.) Although for residency his paternity leave consists of the day I go into labor and the day we come home. So, not a lot!!! B

But I'm very proud of him for working so hard and learning so much. He is also really enjoying teaching the med students. It does make the time we spend together very special. But I'm starting to feel like we're back in high school because I wear his sweatshirt on his call nights! Lame, I know!!!

Here is a rare pic of us from last weekend when we were out, and had a great time!

My good friend Jess was married a couple weeks ago, she looked beautiful in her dress! They also had a really cool ceremony at a Unitarian church. My mom was my date because Bryan was working and we had a really nice time. I had a couple Shirly Temples and had to pass up the free champagne. That was hard!!!

I know that people don't want to get political but that's part of who I am and how I grew up. It's really a part of me so I'm going to touch on it. It is difficult being in a conservative small town when I'm not used to that, but we're getting through. Bryan and I watched both conventions which is always interesting. Since I have been door knocking and working for campaigns since I could walk I have to be active during this time of year.

Being that all I have seen was McCain signs here I was a little curious how my Obama sign was going to go down on our little street. One neighbor a middle aged man gave me a weird look, looked down and kept chopping wood. Then the next day after the sign was out for a day, my other neighbor, a woman in her early thirties said, "i like your sign", as I was walking out to the mailbox. I was so surprised I didn't know what to say, but "ahhhh, thanks."

Going Political!

So this is the first time I was able to get a sign up in my OWN yard, I felt old! I always remember growing up, being nervous this time of year whenever people would come over or drop me off at my house. We always had at least 3 signs up!!! And coming from catholic schools my whole life, there was a lot of money there. I remember talking politics since I was 8. I know it's not normal for a lot but it was for my family! My grandma was the secretary for Bruce Vento who was a congressman for many years. One of his campaign posters is him talking to my mom and dad, and I'm about 2 years old looking at the camera. (My sister was also in the pic, but in my Mom's belly!)

To be honest I have always been active in politics and as much as I am a liberal, I really hate when people don't vote and don't inform themselves of what is going on in the world and how the politicians line up with their views and values. As much as I have fought being political and outspoken it's who I am! And I'm okay with it. I won't even get nervous when people pull into my drive way and look at my sign!

I know there are some of you who don't agree with my views, and as passionate as I am because of the work I have done I know that I can't convince anyone. So I will stand up for what I believe and listen with an open mind to the other side. That's my goal at least!

So don't forget to vote! Sorry about the ramble!!

We are having a ...

2008-09-16T21:08:00.000-07:00

BOY!

The ultrasound went really well today. Everything looked good, and I was measuring right on with my due date. So its staying on Valentine's Day!

Bryan had a very busy day since he was on short call. So I went into the appointment and he was going to try and get there as soon as he could. I told the tech the situation and she did all the other measurements and stuff. Then at the end the receptionist came in and asked if my husband could come in. I think I jumped off the table and barely let her get the sentence out before I said, "yeah, he's here, let him in!" He was just in time and the tech was so great, she went over all the things with Bryan and then asked us if we were ready to know the sex. She started looking and trying to get the little guy to not cross his legs so we could see the parts. Then she said, "well I'm seeing extra parts!" The first thing I said was "I told you!" to Bryan.

After that I met with my doctor, Bryan had to head back. Which made his time in at the appointment about 5 minutes, but it was the 5 that I needed. Just someone to hold my hand and remind me this was real, AND I didn't have to find out the sex by myself!

So all is good! I am feelings good and the belly is growing!

17 week update

2008-09-08T17:49:00.000-07:00

So here is my 17 week picture... I'm loving the maternity pants! So comfy!

My poor husband taking a little nap after his on call night.
Bryan making burgers after his 25 hour shift.
This are going well! Bryan is working a lot, which sucks and my work schedule is a lot of noon to 8pm. Which is great for sleeping in, but Bryan and I don't get much time together. Small price to pay to save some lives! I am very proud of him for all the work he does, with lack of sleep and NEVER complains.

Some visitors to Rochester!

2008-09-08T17:39:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday Erin and Kat came down with their little ones. It was so nice to have some visitors come down and see our house. We went out to lunch and then to the park before it started raining!

Thank you ladies for coming down! It was wonderful to see you!

All of us at lunch

Daylen, Rowan and Annie sitting in front on the door at Cold Stone
Me and Rowan measuring who is taller!
Someone took a little spill on the slide, and smeared the blood all over her face!
Annie enjoying her fries

Another one bites the dust...

2008-08-26T19:29:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is true, although I'm pretty sure everyone knows by now! I am pregnant! It was just as much a surprise to us as it might of been to you! (Maybe more!) Once we moved to Rochester I went through two jobs. My first job a absolutely hated and then I got the nanny job. I really liked the job, but my first week working I found out I was pregnant. I told the family right away and they decided that they needed someone to give them a long term committment, and that was clearly not something I could do at that point. So I worked with them until they found a new nanny. They did, and I trained her in and left without having another job lined up. Which was very scary, but at least Bryan has an income at this point! So, I applied for jobs, and went out and drove around looking for something. I drove downtown to a store that I found a couple weeks before and loved. It is a lot like Patina, if you know that store in the cities. I walked in and asked if they were hiring and luckily they were! I took an application, filled it out, interviewed the next day, met with the owner and was hired the same week. It was nice that I ended up only having a week without working before I started the new job. So that is the story!

It was very difficult for me to not tell everyone when we found out we were pregnant but I was worried and really wanted to have the first trimester under my belt before I went out and told everyone. But I do think it made it really exciting when i finally was able to tell people!

I was kinda out of the loop the first few months here, I think because if I had to talk to people it would be really hard not to tell them what was going on. So I'm sorry to everyone I was out of touch with, but now that I'm not as tired and feeling better I will be better, promise!

Now here are a couple pictures, don't laugh- I do have a belly!

14 weeks, before a walk, so not looking so good!

This is me at 15 weeks at my parents house, see the belly?
Me, my sister and my mom this weekend

So all in all things are going well, I'm feeling better and we are getting excited!
My due date is Valentines Day and on Sept. 16 we are finding out the sex!
Any guesses?

Horrible Blogger!

2008-08-26T19:02:00.000-07:00

I know, I know... I have been horrible at updating this but since there has been so much going on it was the last thing on my mind. Anyway, lets start more recently and work our way backward!

Kata and Tim got married a week ago, and here are some pictures from the big weekend! This was the first wedding that Bryan was in and I wasn't, it was quite a change but nice to not be the busy one for once!

Kata and Tim during their first dance...

Bry and I at the reception, which was at Kata's parents' home, as well as the ceremony.
Me and Derrick at the reception

Kata and Tim at the rehearsal dinner

The groomsmen (Chadley, Shawn, Timmy, Bry and D)
Bryan ironing his shirt the day of the ceremony!
The boys all dressed up
Tim and Kata, all married!

Okay, so now we'll change it up a little. I took pictures of our new livingroom set, along with the roses that I got for my birthday from my husband!
Upstairs furniture, we love it!
Janell and Ryker came to visit a month or so ago and one of the days Angie, Chris and Jackson came to visit us before they left to go back to New Zealand.
This picture is Ryker and Jackson getting to know each other!
The Casemore and the Pershing family saying good-bye!
I did update the last post with our garden, which was just dirt, well this was taken a while ago but here it was a month or so ago!

Our third anniversary

2008-07-13T10:45:00.000-07:00

So this is the first year that we didn't get to do anything on our actual anniversary. This year our anniversary was on a Wednesday, but Bryan was post call and I worked a 13 hour day.
(On-call for Bryan starts at 1pm and he is there until the next day until 4:00, 5:00 or later depending on what's going on.) The poor kid came home and slept an hour and then went back out and bought me roses and a card. On Thursday night we went out and had a nice dinner downtown at Chester's, it was really yummy and was a great place.

All in all things are going well, Bryan is on call Q6 (Q6 means he is on call every 6th day) on call means that he stays at the hospital, he doesn't have home call during residency. It has been busy and he has been working a lot of hours but it's been fine. It has been hard to get used to sleeping alone in this big house, but I've adjusted, as much as I ever will.

I took some more pictures of the house and will post them this week!

Happy Summer!

Our first BBQ!!!

2008-06-18T17:20:00.001-07:00

Okay, yes, I admit it, it's been a while. Here is the short version of the update...

I FOUND A NEW JOB! I am now working for a couple who are both doc's, the mom is an OB/GYN and the dad is an anesthesiologist. They have three kids, Jonathan is 5, Lauren is 3 and Nicholas is 7months. They are a handful but it's fun, and tons better than my last job!

This past weekend we had our first BBQ at our house. Derrick, Tim, Kata, Kiwi, Angie and my sister all came down and it was a blast! We had great weather!

My stylin' outfit, it got a little chilly and my feel were cold!

Tim as Ace Ventura
Angie, Kiwi, Noelle, Bry, Derrick, Tim and Kata

Our garden! It has vegi's and sunflowers!

Our deck
Holding Jackson in our unfurnished living room
Tim holding Jackson...D looking confused
Derrick BBQed all weekend on our new grill! He even cleaned the kitchen!

Derrick and Tim putting together our ladder ball
Bryan and Kiwi putting together our net
Derrick and all the food he made!
The kitchen
Dining room/ view of deck
So, that is what I have so far. Once we get a little more organized and our living room furniture here I will take some more pictures!

No pictures yet!

2008-06-10T18:34:00.000-07:00

Well I know I've been bad and should post pictures now that we've been in for over a week and have internet. So yes, we are starting to settle in. We are missing a few things, our living room set for upstairs, which is stil at Alshey Furniture waiting to be purchased! We did get our patio stuff out on the deck so that is nice to have done. There really isn't anything on the walls, just the guest room packed full of pictures and frames and decorations. Once we have furniture in then we can get on that.

Bryan has two days this week of the ACLS- it's basic life support and running codes. It's stuff he likes but he would rather be on vacation! He officially starts on Monday.

As for me, the few people I've talked to will know that after the first day of my job I knew it wasn't going to work. The people were not friendly, it wasn't what I was expecting or told was going to be at my interview. It is frustrating but after day 2 I was already applying for new jobs. There aren't a lot of jobs here unless you work in a hospital so I started looking at office work and nannying. On Monday I had an interview with a family and their three adorable children. Both parents are physicians so they in need of some help! The hours are random, once a week it will be a 12 hour day, but most are around 6.5 hours, beginning early. I really liked the family and the kids and I'm going back tomorrow to meet with the kids and the nanny, possibly the mom as well if she is not called in. So we'll see!

Things at the house are going well. Bryan has mowed the lawn a few times, killed the weeds and cleared out the garden for our vegi's to start growing! I have vacuumed our home for the first time which was nice since it wasn't an apartment building!

So all in all things are going well, I love the house, I love the neighborhood, everyone has been really friendly. When I get a new job things will really start getting good. We have a couple events through Mayo and it will be nice to meet some more people. Thursday I am going on a walk with a spouse I met, her hubbie is a neuro-surg resident and they live near us. She has a 6 month old. It will be nice to do something that isn't with Bryan! I have been spoiled having him around so much and I know it's going to change pretty dramatically.

Thank you everyone for comments and emails of encouragement. After this weekend I think most things will be organized and I can put up some pictures!

And by the way- I am really excited for New Kids on the Block to come back... I like the new single! They have all aged well and I love, love, love it! My sister won tickets to the concert on the radio and I was so happy I couldn't handle it!!! Yay!! I will love Joey til the day I die!

Quick update

2008-05-29T20:17:00.001-07:00

Well we are in the midst of the chaos but I thought I would send a quick update before we are between internet sites! We did our final walk through of the house today and everything looked great! We also met the current owners who were very nice. The husband was just finishing his anesthesia residency and took at job in Utah at a private practice group. They have 3 kids, I can't imagine trying to move 3 kids! They have to stay in a hotel for the next month before they move.

Bryan and I were in Duluth from Monday to Wednesday and had a really nice time. The weather didn't really cooperate until Wednesday but it's Duluth so what do you expect. We hit all of our usual spots and also saw the new Indiana Jones movie- it was good! When Bryan asked me if I was ready to head back I realized that I had so much to do I didn't want to, I just wanted to keep eating my malt and looking at the lake, much better than packing and cleaning! But I was really relieved and happy that we could take a little trip away, just the two of is before all the moving and Bryan's new schedule started!

My sister treated me to a play last night. She took me to Spamalot and it was hilarious! We had a really good time! We started the night with drinks and app's on the rooftop at Solera. It was fun to spend some time with her before we left.

Tonight I am off to see Sex and the City- the movie. I am super pumped! My sister and I are going with a few other ladies to the 12:01 (midnight) showing, should be fun but a long night! Then tomorrow at 9am we are going to my uncle's office to close our house!

I hope you are all doing well and I will be in touch just as soon as we get settled! I do start my new job on Monday so I really didn't give myself much time but I thought I might as well get a jump on it! My last couple days at work were pretty rough, sad and difficult. I had to say good-bye to not only co-workers but also many volunteers. It was hard but nice to know that I was able to get to know so many amazing people. The topper was when I left on my last day and my boss was there. She is usually not a very sensitive person so I was pretty surprised when I gave her a hug before leaving and I turned around and she was crying. How many bosses cry when you leave? Not many- I was very lucky to work with such amazing people. All the volunteers and staff signed a book for me with their emails and little notes, it is really amazing and I am so glad I have it. Okay, no more tears, time for new things!

Wish us luck with the move and closing! Take care!

Apartment Living...

2008-05-18T12:19:00.000-07:00

Since we only have two weeks left in our apartment I wanted to look back on the last 3 years here...

Cons:
~Small kitchen
~One bathroom
~Not a lot of space
~Loud pipes when people are taking showers!
~Loud people in the building
~People parking directly in front of the door
~People who drop things in the hallways and leave it!
~CATS!
~People who don't pick up after their dogs around the building
~Having a lot of our things stuffed in a storage unit.
~The airplanes flying over when they are re-routed!
~The loud trains behind the building
~No porch

Caretaking Cons:
~Cleaning the building, especially when people spill their cat litter in the hall and leave it.
~Cleaning the laundry room.
~PEOPLE COMPLAINING about anything and everything at all hours.
~Cleaning apartments that need to be turned over, especially when people don't know how to clean.
~CLEANING AFTER OTHER PEOPLE!

Pro's of our apartment:
~It's where Bryan and I have lived since we have been married
~It's where we learned how to be married
~The church behind us whose bells play songs at noon.
~Living so close to Highland Park
~Living close to work
~Living close to my sister... who I can actually hear walking around upstairs!!!
~Dishwasher
~Garage

And now onto a house where we only have to pick up after ourselves!

Pictures from Bryan's grad party!

2008-05-10T08:50:00.000-07:00

So I wanted to share some pictures from Bryan's party. We had a perfect day at my parent's house to celebrate!

This is us walking backwards towards our gift from the boys!This is us reacting to the sweet gift!
Our sweet-ass grill with all the accessories! Look how cute Derrick set it all up in the back of his car!

This is my favorite picture from the day!

Kiwi (Chris), Mike, Josh, Tim, Derrick, Chris and Bry!

Rian at the Bloody Bar mixin' bloody's.

Noelle "facebooking" herself at the Bloody bar
Noelle and Rian made 3 of their own bloody mixes and named it accordingly!
(Also notice the Jesus tape! I bought it for my mom, it's awesome!)
Bryan's board that I made of old pictures, my sister made a slideshow on the laptop too!
My design of pull-apart cupcakes! I brought them the picture of the "M" and the medical sign!

The Fastner/ McGlynn table!

Bryan's family!
Marcia's friends table!
Jackson just laying int he sun!
Bryan and my dad doing a blind taste test with a beer they made.

This is my other favorite picture. This is Naomi, and I am holding her 3 day old daughter Mattea. Naomi surprised me at the party since she had only been out of the hospital a day and they live about 45 minutes away. It was wonderful and she is beautiful!

Mattea Naomi
This is me and my 14 year old cousin who I used to babysit, and she would cry... constantly! Now's she's America's Next Top Model!!!!!! (Well not technically, but look at her!)
Picture from the party and apparently Rian running!
Josh trying to look paternal with Jackson!

Bryan's actual graduation!

2008-05-09T07:23:00.000-07:00

*Please listen to the "yeah Worm" yelled by Derrick. It was priceless! (Worm was Bryan's nickname in college- I hate it but it lives on anyway.)

Dr. Bryan S. Pershing

2008-05-08T06:58:00.001-07:00

Dr. Bryan S. Pershing

Derrick, Dr. P and me!

Dinner at Mancini's with friends and family!

Hug your loved ones

2008-04-22T10:28:00.000-07:00

I just received an email that a high school friend's fiance died this weekend. They were supposed to get married this August. It is so very sad, I can't imagine what she must be going through.

I have to go to a wake this week because a volunteer of ours passed away. He was only 63 and was not sick. It is very sad and difficult and we are going to miss him a lot.

This past weekend I was at a funeral for my aunt's sister who passed away from ovarian cancer. She was only 58.

*There are days and weeks that make you remember to hug your loved ones a little tighter. You don't understand how people who are young and healthy should die. It doesn't seem fair to their families who have to go on after they leave. I don't understand, I don't think I ever will. I also know better than to tell people it's God's plan. I hate when people say that, I mean, what does that mean anyway. I doubt God wants you to feel as horrible as you do. I get it- it's life, accidents happen, and people die but sometimes it's just not fair and it doesn't make sense, and I don't feel that is in God's plan.

Maybe this is getting too religious about these things but it seems to be the common theme and it's a really difficult thing to swallow. I believe in God, on most days. But doesn't everyone doubt that when things like this happen? I would be lying if I said I didn't. Yes, it does make you appreciate life and your loved ones a little more, and yes, that is a good lesson. But there are so many questions that will never be answered and that is frustrating.

Life is so precious and it makes me so angry when you see people taking advantage of all they have. I am to blame as much as the next guy or gal! We forget that we are all human and each day is a gift and nothing is for sure.

So, basically I just wanted to make sure people take this time to hug their families, parents, siblings, spouses, children, friends and remember that every day we have is special- don't waste it! (I will work on my own advice!)

The medical marriage

2008-04-17T07:10:00.000-07:00

There is a wonderful book coming out written by the wife of a doctor in St. Cloud. She has been through a lot in her life and has written a book for spouses of physicians. This is a first, if you look on Amazon for books for physicians, there are plenty, but if you look for spouses there is one, this book that Kris wrote. There is a teaser on the website and you can read the first 11 pages. I am so excited to get this book because it is great insight to the world we live in. Not glamorous, or exciting, but real and poor and struggling for time together. If you're interested in this book at all, or know any spouse of a med student, resident or physician, this would be a great book for them! It is not an easy road and not how it is portrayed. We are right in the middle of the calm before the storm. Bryan graduates in a couple months, then we move and he starts his 80+ hour work weeks. So, if you're interested please read some of the teaser and if you're really interested buy it or buy if for someone who might need it! I was thinking it would be a great book to have MY family and friends read, because it describes my point of view perfectly!

http://www.iuniverse.com/bookstore/book_detail.asp?isbn=0-595-48701-7

And with all this studying, test taking, stress, lack of time, lack of money, call nights, med school, residency, fellowships and beyond, here is my little doctor... in all his glory!

Okay, so I guess it's worth it!

Our Diaper Bag Drive was a success!!

2008-04-11T11:34:00.001-07:00

A while ago I talked about an important fundraiser that I was a part of at work. This was called a Diaper Drive for the HIV Perinatal Program. This program provides many services to women who are pregnant and HIV Positive.

Our employee based group decided to try and help this program provide diaper bags to these new mom's because most of the are struggling financially. We tried to find a group that would sponsor the bags so that we can have employee's fill them. I talked to the AMA Alliance, which is a group I am in. It is made up of spouses of med students, residents and physicians. I brought up the idea and they approved it, by giving us a $500 donation to purchase the bags. This was an amazing gift and it made our drive very successful. We had so much support from the hospital staff that we not only filled all of the purchased bags but had money to buy more as well as provide over $300 in Target gift cards! It was amazing to see and I was very proud to be part of this amazing, successful Diaper Bag Drive!!

This is a picture we took when we handed all the bags over to the nurse who heads up this program, she was very overwhelmed and said that for some women, this will be the only thing they get for their baby.

That alone, was worth all the thanks in the world!

Wedding Prints

2008-04-08T13:17:00.000-07:00

So it has almost been three years since we have been married and I finally decided that I wanted a nice album instead of the 900+ pictures in a album. The photographer put a few of the pages up on her blog so that I could approve. They are awesome!

Take a look: http://wwwargentephoto.blogspot.com/

Sold!

2008-04-03T08:04:00.000-07:00

Well, we have rented for three years, we were caretakers and cleaned up after other people, but now... all we have to do is clean up after ourselves!

This is our new home in Rochester! We close on May 30th!

Yay!

Sarah's wedding pictures!

2008-04-01T08:11:00.000-07:00

Miss and I with our tongues!

Bride and groom
My sister and Hailey (Beth's little one)

Sarah's Wedding

2008-04-01T08:06:00.000-07:00

On March 22 Sarah and Charles were married! It was a fun day, even though it snowed! Here are some pictures from the wedding!

Right before the wedding...

Bryan and I- matchy matchy!

Mom and I with her fancy shoes!

Alisha and I

Beth, Sarah and I

My donation

2008-03-27T07:14:00.000-07:00

Since there has been a big change in my life, the next step for me is usually a hair change. This time I had 9 extra inches to give away so my donation of 9 inches of hair is on it's way to Pantene Beautiful Lengths... it's just like Locks for Love... my hair stylist Briana, said we had to take pictures- I love her!

Before... holding my hair

After...

Profile...
Back...

I like it!

A Match Day Story...

2008-03-27T06:47:00.000-07:00

So you wake up one day not knowing where you will be living in three months, it could be close, it could be west coast, east coast or somewhere in the middle. The way you deal with that is not sleeping for the previous three nights, but your not stressed, no- you are anxious... that's what you tell people!

So this is how the day went down:
I wake up, take a shower, eat (forcefully because I'm not hungry but don't want to pass out when I see Pittsburgh in that envelop), get dressed. Now I am trying to get Bryan out the door, he is pokey and decided last minute to change his shirt, that he needed to iron... ahhhhh!

I am stressed, I mean, full of anxiety... we get in the car and I don't say much, Bryan seems awefully calm and trying to joke around with me to help me relax. It's nice but he counters it with, "are you really stressed?" "No, I'm anxious, don't you know the difference?" (yea- me either!)

So we get the the McNamara Center at the U, it's beautiful, we have been there before for the med school prom his first year of med school. There are a lot of people there, sitting, eating, talking... we see some people we know and sit down. Then a few faculty come and talk, one of which had his letter from 1964 when he matched- that was pretty cool.

Then they have to waste some time because it's not 11am yet and we can't open them until 11am... Okay, finally they say it's time.

They tell everyone that there are tables around the edges of the room and they are separated by last names, A-G... you get it. So we find out table, Bryan picks up the envelop and then I see a TV camera right in my face, so we move out of the chaos to a little open spot. Bryan starts to open it... he looks at it, looks at me...
Bry- It's Mayo
Me- What?
Me- Where are we going for the first year?
Bry- No- it's Mayo, for all four years
Me- WHAT?!?!?! (A few tears)

Then I quickly snapped out of it and yelled, "where's Julie?" (Bryan's med school friend Tony's wife. aka my salvation through this med school thing)
I finally find Julie and yell- "well, where are you?"
She looks at me and says, "we haven't opened it yet."
Me- "well OPEN IT UP!"
They do and look over- "we're staying!"

I am relieved by this point and shaking and realize that I should call my family. Bryan goes to talk to some friends and Julie and I go and sit down at a table and start making calls.

My sister was bawling... My mom said she knew it and was very excited... my dad said he was happy for us... Carrie screamed... and Bryan left a message for his mom saying, "I hope you will enjoy visiting us in Pittsburgh!" But called back later and told her the truth!

Then we went to Sally's for beer and food which was a nice time to chill and talk to people beyond all the chaos. That night we went to Solera where they had free drins and app's for a few hours. They had the whole top room for us with a DJ and it was really fun! Those doctor's know how to drink!

So, that was it. The day we have been waiting for, and it was great! We are very happy and excited for the next step, especially the house!

Thank you everyone for all your love and support through all this!

Bryan and I at Sally's with THE envelop

Tony and Julie

Bryan and Tony at Sally's

Bry at home with his letter!

Me- kissing the letter!

TODAY IS THE DAY!!!

2008-03-20T11:26:00.000-07:00

The day has finally come!!!

Hello all---it is Noelle (Elizabeth's sister) here. Elizabeth asked me to update her blog to let everyone know what happened today at 11:00am since she isn't able to, but wanted to make sure that everyone who cared could know what was going on.

So this is my perspective of things.........
At about 10:45am this morning I started to pace and my stomach felt like blah and I wanted to die. ha The anticipation was KILLING me!
My sister texted me last night and told me to be ready right at 11am because I would be the first person she called.
So I'm sweaty and shaky and cannot believe how slow time is going by.

At 11:02am, I get a call on my cell phone from my sister's cell phone. I answer it and keep saying hello but she is not there. I can hear her in the background but she isn't talking! So I hang up and call her back and when she finally answers and is on the phone...my shaky voice says, "What is it?? Where are you going???"
And among the many many voices and craziness in the background I slightly hear Elizabeth say---"We got Rochester. Bryan has all 4 years at Mayo!"
And I just about lost it!!! For those of you who were at my sister and Bryan's wedding, you know that I'm not one to hold back emotions, happy and sad. So you can somewhat imagine what I was like when it finally registered that Bryan got in at Mayo for ALL FOUR YEARS!!!
None of this Portland or Pittsburgh CRAP!!!! haha At least thats what I was thinking!!!
When I finally stopped my crying or tried to stop, I went out into the main office area and of course everyone was waiting to hear my news...and I told them all that they will be in Rochester, MN only an HOUR away from me!!! YAY!!!
I cried again when I got a hold of Rian to tell him the great news.
But no more tears because Bryan got into Mayo for all four years, which is basically the best scenario that could have ever happened!
This means that they can actually get a house right away and be settled--which is SO exciting!

I'll stop babbling now, but I thought it would be fun to drag it out in the dramatic sense that I had to live it!!!

Maybe now Elizabeth will get some sleep!!! hehe

Thanks to everyone who has helped Elizabeth and supported her and Bryan through all of this craziness! It was far from easy but today is a very happy day and all the hard work from Bryan and all the stress of travel and decisions that they both had to make have finally paid off!!!

Hope everyone has a great day and a happy holiday weekend!!!

YAY!!! :-)

Ahhhhhhhh!

2008-03-19T13:19:00.000-07:00

That is my only thought right now so it'll have to do. I'm pretty sure I have started or ended almost every email this week with this one special sound...

Ahhhhhhhhhh!

Monday down... next stop- Thursday!

2008-03-17T13:21:00.000-07:00

So to add to this confusion today all of the students get emails letting them know IF they matched. At 11am Bryan received this email:

Congratulations, you matched.

Yeah... that was it! For the students who do not match, they have to go through a scramble process to try and find open spots anywhere in the country. It's not fun but it's better than nothing.

I knew that he would match but until you get that email confirming it, you just never know! So it is official. Bryan has matched into an anesthesiology residency, where you ask? Good Question!!!

I think I'll have my sister update the blog on Thursday for me. I will be gone on Friday because it is Sarah's wedding and we will have fun bridesmaid things to do that day! Then the wedding on Saturday, Easter on Sunday... which is also Bryan's birthday!

Needless to say it is going to be a very busy four days and I probably won't get on the computer so... Noelle, you wanna update this for me on Thursday?

Thank you for all your good thoughts! Keep them coming, we're almost there!

One week to go...

2008-03-13T06:25:00.000-07:00

One week from today is the day. I don't really know what I'm feeling but while I was organizing pictures last night I decided to post some of our engagement pictures...

Love you babe!

Weekend of Babies!

2008-03-04T08:25:00.000-08:00

This weekend Carrie and I ventured out to KC, but not before meeting Anne for dinner at Bonfire. The three of us had a great dinner talking a lot and laughing pretty loudly as well!
Then Friday morning Carrie and I got up at 5am to catch our flight. As we walked into the airport we were informed that our flight to Chicago was canceled. So we went in a different line and they got us on a direct flight to KC a few hours later. Which was a nice surprise!

We got to KC around 1pm and Janell and Ryker picked us up! Ryker was so excited to see his Aunties that he fell asleep, but woke up during the ride home, crying because he was so happy to see us!

Friday night we met Kat and her friend Annie for dinner that night. Then Kat came over to Janell's for the rest of the weekend!

We had a wonderful weekend, that went much too quickly!

Ryker and Annie are new best friends!

Janell and Kat and their children!

We had a BBQ on saturday at some friends of Janell and Jeff's and the other two couples also had babies, here are the Mommy's!

And all the babies...

It was a wonderful weekend full of babies and friends and laughing, at babies and friends!

Thanks for a wonderful weekend ladies!

Babies, babies, babies

2008-03-04T08:20:00.000-08:00

More pictures from the weekend!

Carrie and Janell playing with Ryker... and my legs!

Mommy and Ryker

Ryker was very tuckered out but we bounced him right to sleep!

SO CUTE... there are no words!

My favorite picture from the weekend! Ryker and Annie starring at me!

Our best volunteer!

2008-02-28T13:42:00.000-08:00

The local news did a really nice story about a volunteer of ours. His name is Dave and his dog's name is Sasha. This is really an amazing dog and this story really reflects how wonderful she is, and her owner!

If you get a chance please watch it! It was all filmed at Regions but the little girl in it is a patient at Children's as well!

Enjoy!

http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/myfox/pages/Home/Detail;jsessionid=FF2FC7B963A21898245CF5E9CA950702?contentId=5894787&version=2&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=VSTY&pageId=1.1.1&sflg=1

Our list is in!

2008-02-27T14:24:00.001-08:00

Today was the deadline to send in our rank list!

So it is in and now we wait 22 more days, or 3 weeks from tomorrow or, 528 hours...

Wish us luck!

Welcome to the world Jackson!

2008-02-26T14:10:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday my friend Angie (from high school) brought a beautiful baby into the world, I guess her husband Chris (Kiwi) helped as well!
His name is Jackson David and he was 6lbs 14oz, 20 inches. He gave his Mama quite a hassle for a few days of labor, but he is here now and both Mom and baby are healthy and doing well!

Chris and Angie just a few days before labor began!

Baby Jackson

Daddy and baby! (I asked Chris if the baby was going to come out with an accent, since he is from New Zealand) But so far his cry sounds American!

Pictures from birthday dinner

2008-02-19T09:08:00.000-08:00

Lorri (Josh's mom), Kata and Tim

Mike, Paul (Josh's dad) and Peter (Josh's uncle)

Josh and Derrick

Josh and his girlfriend Jenna

Nate and Kelly

More of Josh's B-day

2008-02-19T09:03:00.000-08:00

Derrick dancing...

Nate- doing something...

Chris and Angie at dinner

Bryan and I

Valentines Day

2008-02-19T09:00:00.000-08:00

This year we had Angie and Chris over for spaghetti and kept it a nice laid back Valentines Day.

Here are our gifts, I got the roses and Bryan got the Brita with flavored water, his favorite!

Aloha!

2008-02-13T09:35:00.001-08:00

What do you do when you're... VERY much in debt?
Your husband doesn't have an income?
You will be moving in the next few months?
You will need to (probably) find a new job?

You go to Hawaii!!!!

That's right, April 15th we are off to Oahu for a 8 night vacation before residency starts!

Another motivating factor for this trip is the Kokua Festival.

It is Jack Johnson's music festival which this year is going to feature Dave Matthews and Mason Jennings(my favorite)!!!

So we're going! And we're excited! If anyone has any suggestions on fun things to do please let me know!

Enough said!!

My baby is getting so big!!

2008-02-09T12:46:00.000-08:00

Last week my aunt Julie came over with Caleb,the closest thing I have to my own child since I was there when he was born. My favorite was the leg holding, I had my head right in there so I could see everything!
Anyway, he is going to be 2 in May and I can't believe how time has flown. Being there when he was born was one of the most amazing experiences of my life and I am so grateful that I was there.

I can't get over how much he is talking. He says "say soo" for thank you and "brizza" for Elizabeth. Hey- I'll take it! He is very polite, "peez" is a very common word! The one word that you can't mistake is "No" and "Bye." He even knows some letters and colors, well he knows colors if you point to something blue, because blue is the only color he knows!

Anyway, he is growing fast and I love him so much!
Even if every picture I take of him he looks drunk or he is on a phone!

"Doctor Dilemma" M.D. = Mega Debt

2008-02-05T08:49:00.000-08:00

This is a great article about medical school and our whopping debt. Although they have $150K for debt... I wish that was what we had!

Enjoy!

http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=493988

Okay, so I have a problem...

2008-02-04T12:29:00.001-08:00

I admit it... I take a lot of pictures... these are the last of them!

Addi was really enjoying collecting all the water bottles. She also shared them with Annie.

Someone needs to invest in kids cups so that my guests under 5 don't have to drink out of shot glasses... poor Addi

Mom and Dad and baby Kade

Naked baby!

Addi and Annie

More pictures of the kids...

2008-02-04T12:22:00.000-08:00

Mama and Kade

Me and Annie

Addie eating some of Kat's yummy salsa

Holding Kade

Annie

Children, children everywhere!

2008-02-04T12:06:00.000-08:00

On Friday Tiffany, Brian, Addi and Kade came over to visit. Along with Kat and Annie. We had a nice visit at my apartment and I took a lot of pictures so enjoy!

Annie all smiles!

Addi all smiles

Kat and Kade

Brian, Addi and Annie

Addi- cute as ever!

More of the ATL

2008-02-04T12:01:00.000-08:00

More pictures from Atlanta...

Bryan and I in front of the World of Coke

Jeffie and I outside the aquarium

A picture of me that Jeff took when I was trying to get my camera back!

Welcome to Hot-lanta...kinda...

2008-02-04T11:53:00.000-08:00

So, a few weeks ago Bryan and I took a trip to Atlanta so that Bryan could take a test. They offer the test in 5 cities in the country and since one was Atlanta we decided to make a weekend of it and stay with my uncle Jeff. We had a nice weekend and even though it snowed... yes snowed when we were there it was nice to get away!

This is the snow on Jeff's hot tub in the back yard. We did get some hot tubbing in though, so that was nice!

This is the Aquarium that we went to in downtown Atlanta

This is Bryan and Jeffie looking at the fishies, which I had to drag them away from.

Bryan petting the sting rays

My favorite animal at the aquarium

Write this day down!

2008-01-29T14:44:00.000-08:00

Today was Bryan's LAST interview for residency! Of course, he is in the middle of a blizzard driving back from La Crosse, but that's how it goes!

As of today Bryan has had 13 interviews, this incudes transitional year interviews for his first year, because some programs only provide the last 3 anesthesia years for residency. Confused yet? Me too!

So, in 51 days we will know where we will be settling for 4 years, or 1 year or 5 years... still confused?

Let's change the subject!

This past weekend while Bryan went to Duluth with the boys I spent Saturday in Sartell, MN with Sarah getting our bridesmaid dresses fitted and eating lunch at her parents home. I was also able to talk to a couple of the other bridesmaids about shower and bachelorette plans. I will post some pictures of the dresses later- they're very cute and purpley!

Otherwise, things are going well and I am still on the Match Day (March 20th) countdown but the wedding is a great distraction since it's on March 22nd!

Kristen's growing kids!

2008-01-12T10:25:00.000-08:00

Between Christmas and New Years I went over to my friend Kristen's to visit. Kristen is a friend from high school and lives close, but with busy schedules and one of us having two children, it's pretty tough to find time to hang out!

Here are some pictures of her adorable little ones!

This is Abby riding on Sam's rocking horse...look at that smile!

This is Sam avoiding to smile at all costs!

More Christmas and New Years Pictures!

2008-01-12T10:17:00.000-08:00

Bryan and Rian playing a game

Mom and Dad looking at their calendar that Noelle and I made with pictures!

Dad and his new sweater!

Noelle giving Angel her new Christmas bone!

This is a picture of us with Chris and Angie on New Year's Eve.
We went to a nice 5 course dinner at a nice Italian place and then went back to our place to play games and count down. Angie made it until midnight, it's a little harder than last year since she is 7 months pregnant!

Christmas Pictures

2008-01-12T10:12:00.000-08:00

This is the tree at my parent's house...formally known as my grandparents house!

Bryan and I opening presents!

Bryan and his vintage North Stars shirt from Rian

Bryan thanking Noelle for his Transformers Risk game... Yikes!

This is Mom and Marcia (Bryan's mom) opening gifts.