11.16.11

I haven't written about you in awhile. There's much to catch up on. You love the music class we go to on Monday mornings. You like playing with an instrument, you sit down when they read a story, and participate as best you can. On fridays we go to reading time at the library. This is more difficult. You sit for one story and then you walk around or play on the chairs for 4 more stories. A few months ago you started jumping with both feet leaving the ground and now you jump off everything. You love eating your gummy vitamins. You still take one long nap during the day. Dad just cut your hair last night. I love it short. You look adorable. Many people stop me when I'm at a store. Their comments are one of two things that you are cute or a busy boy. Both are true and accurate. You seem to enjoy nursery i.e. they never come to get me or dad. I am looking forward to January when church starts at 9am and you're nap time is not affected. We've been sledding and playing in the snow now that it's been snowing a lot. You love to play in it and have us pull you on the sled. I've been flushing your pooh down the toilet in hopes that you begin to understand the concept of going to the bathroom. You love to flush the toilet and receive your "high five." Then you shut the lid, and run to the diaper genie to throw the diaper away. You still love to read books and insist on sitting on our lap to read. If Jordyn or Sydney are on my lap you push them off so you can sit on my lap. We love you Levi!

Halloween 2011

This was our first Halloween experiencing snowfall. After the trunk or treat at church, we went around our neighborhood with some friends. We walked around for 20-30 minutes before going home to drink some hot chocolate. Next thing I knew it was snowing. It didn't stop anyone because there were still tons of kids walking around until about 8:45. Another first was making a "halloween" dinner. It was easy and you loved it so I think a new tradition was born. Here are some mummy dogs.

Ghosts
Fingers
These are suppose to be mouths w/ teeth and we drank poison to wash it all down.
You loved exploring the insides of the pumpkin. The girls insisted on using gloves to pick the stuff out of the pumpkin.
Levi is are lil' stinker aka a Skunk

9.20.2011

My friend Carrie took pictures of you and our family. You are the cutest 1 year old boy I've ever seen.
Love kissing this boy and can't stop staring at him. Every feature (lips, cheeks, nose) are to die for.

8.23.11

I remembered a few more things about you that I had forgotten about. You usually wake up in the morning or afternoon nap crying. When you see sunlight right after you wake up, you always sneeze. You also love to get gently tickled. You usually pick up my hand and place it on your desired tickle spot, usually your tummy or arms. I think I can officially declare that you only take 1 nap now. Sundays are difficult. Church is from 1-4. On a typical day you go down for a nap at noon. This Sunday you finally laid down on dad the 3rd hour for about 20 minutes and that was your nap.

8.17.11

A week ago you and your sisters went to the pediadontist. It was your first time. Since you're so wiggly she  checked inside your mouth to see how your teeth are growing in. They give the kids sunglasses to put on while their checking inside your mouth. You had the sunglasses on and I said "Levi, say COOL DUDE, " and you said it! You've been saying it ever since, when prompted. This past Sunday you and I went into nursery for 30 minutes so you can see how things are. You did great. I could've left you (actually the week before dad did leave you in there for an hour) and you would've been fine. We played with the toys for a little bit and I taught the class a lesson, about the sacrament and then the class had snacks. You've caught on to folding your arms when we pray. It's pretty cute. You're a good listener and follow directions well. You put things away when I ask you to or throw trash in the garbage when we ask you to. I hope you always want to obey us and Heavenly Father, because when we are obedient, we're happy. You are easy to put to bed. I lay you down in your crib and say good night. You roll over with "woobie" in hand and we don't hear from you until the morning. You love to dance. When you dance you walk around the room in circles. When the music stops, you let us know that you're unhappy about it. When the music starts up again, you go back to walking and bobbing your head up and down. You like to make us laugh by doing funny faces where you smile really, really big.  My favorite is when you give us kisses. You love when I chase you around the house. Your giggle is so cute. We love you!

7.29.11

This past month we had visitors. Great Grandpa Gordon, Great Grandma Marianne, Grandpa Tim, Grandma Karen, and Uncle Tim. We had fun driving to Fairbanks, going to the North Pole, Chena Hot Springs, and Girdwood. You had a good time visiting w/ everyone. You travel so well in the car too. You just had a viral infection and now your sisters are dealing with the same infection. You still enjoy getting books and sitting on my lap for me to read to you. I enjoy this just as much if not more than you do. You love snapping buckles together, the ones on your high chair and/or the ones in shopping carts. You are a climber and have learned that you can pull a chair to wherever you want to climb on the object you want to get onto...mostly countertops, tables, and the pantry. You love swinging in the basement and going down slides. You have said mommy, daddy, bubbles, and ball. You are a smart little boy and we love you so much.

6.28.11

May 17th we flew to Las Vegas and Gammie and Grandpa picked us up. You did well on the flight thank goodness. We didn't get to Cedar City until about midnight. You woke up when we pulled into the driveway. That night you would not let me put you down do move luggage. You knew you were in an unfamiliar place. The next day you were comfortable with grandpa but it took you several more days to warm up to Gammie. We drove to Southern California to go to Disneyland and Seaworld w/ dad, your sisters, gammie and grandpa, and the Lamonts. You were such a good sport even though these were very long days for you. At disneyland you loved the Jungle Cruise and It's a Small World. At Seaworld you loved the animal show and afterword that show, Gammie and Grandpa took you to the stage and a Macaw sat on your shoulder, but we didn't get a photograph :(  You also saw other extended family. We stayed at the Rueckert's house (Luisa-dad's cousin, Marc, and their Jacob), we also visited with the your Uncle Jun, Aunt Shannon and their sons Luke, Matt, and Wes (5 days old at the time), Grandpa Tim and Grandma Karen, Great G-ma Marianne and Great G-pa Gordon, one day we drove to Fountain Valley and spent a few hours w/ Grandpa Murray, Uncle Ryan and Danny. We went to the beach and visited my brother, Grant's gravesite. We all had a great vacation. We stayed a few more weeks at Gammie's and Grandpa's. You loved rocking on the Tiger toy they had, going on the 4 wheeler, when grandpa fed you treats, feeding the cows, going to the aquatic center (they had a little slide that you did about 20 times every time we went), and playing outside. While we were there you learn to use a lot of signs: food, more, thank you, please, car, book, and milk. Recently you have signed Jesus. Now if you could just use them regularly. You also have a few books you love to read over and over and over. You come sit on my lap and hand me the book and expect me to read it to you. Of course I do, how could I refuse? Sunday we cut your hair very short. Tonight family come to visit for a week (g-ma karen, uncle tyler, g-pa tim, g-ma marianne and g-pa gordon). You're an exceptionally cute, little boy. I love you to pieces. 

 At sand hollow lake

                                          I bought you and dad matching ties for father's day.

This was taken at Bryce Canyon National Park

5.13.11

It's friday the 13th.

Even though you turned 14 months 3 days ago there is no reason why I shouldn't put you to work and earn your keep around here. That's exactly what you did. You actually did "go to work" today, I'm not lying. The work you did included playing with other boys and toys. It's not much work, but you did get paid for it ($75). You are going to be in some baby movie. I think it's called Baby Genius 3. It's these super hero babies saving the world. You don't have a main role or anything, it's more of being in the background. They shot about 4 scenes with you and two other boys playing at home and at a day care. You did great; but then again is playing with toys really that difficult? I think I had more fun than you did. It was so interesting to be on set, helping you, and seeing how a movie is made. Some things that surprised me:
1. a nurse on set for the kids
2. a sign that read $5 fine for every curse word said when kids are on set
3. a play coach (aka clown)
4. the dozens of people needed for this low profile movie
5. Levi needing to go in the costume design room (his costume consisted of diaper and shirt)
I had to sign a work permit for you stating that a 1 year old can only work 2 hours at a time. He worked every minute of it and after you fell asleep within seconds of being in the car.
If you're wondering how you got this little part.....it was kinda random. I saw a sign at Sydney's preschool saying that they were auditioning for this movie and needed a 3 year old. I took Jordyn to audition and she got a call back. When she auditioned in front of the director, you and Sydney ended up auditioning in front of the director as well. Low and behold the one kid that couldn't talk, you, is the kid they ended up picking. I find that hilarious. Yes, I'll have to sit thru 90 min. of a lame baby movie, but I can't wait to see how they edit it and see how much or little of you is in the movie.You're in the blue shirt


After a hard day of work.

4.28.11

I love that you go grab me books to read you. You like "Old Hat, New Hat" and a Clifford book. You hand me the book and then you sit on my lap. Usually I can barely hear myself reading because you are talking while I read. Since it's been getting warm, we've been taking bike rides everyday and this is another thing you enjoy.

4.21.11

Last Saturday you visited the zoo for the first time. The Anchorage zoo doesn't have as many animals as many other zoos because most animals can't survive in this climate. The zoo has all the Alaska animals you see in our backyard: bears, wolves, moose, fox, and eagles but there are a few exciting animals like the tiger, polar bears, seals, and the big hairy camel. Last Saturday was family day so we got in free. The girls got their face painted. All you wanted to do was walk around and climb in with the llamas, the camel, and sheep. We only stayed for a few hours but you loved it. Most pictures you weren't looking at the camera because you were staring at the animal behind you.

4.14.11

You're 13 months now. I just put you down for a nap. I think you're transitioning to 1 nap a day. The past few days you have taken about a 3 hour nap and sleeping 12-13 hours at night. We've been playing outside  now since the weather has been warm. When I say warm, I mean it's in the upper 40's. You've been learning a bunch of new things since playing and taking walks outside such as a tricycle, helicopter, and airplanes, birds, dogs, bikes, scooters, basketballs, grass, running and falling on asphalt, sidewalk chalk, and much more. You tend to gravitate toward the street so I keep a close eye on you. This morning Dad and I walked in on you in the bathroom. You had climbed onto the stool, were looking in the mirror while brushing your hair with my brush. It was pretty darn cute too since you were brushing your hair on the flat part of the brush instead of the bristles. When I say point to my nose, you point to it. You are a happy boy. You like to explore and are curious about your surroundings. I would also say that you are a good observer. I love catching you staring at something with serious intent and curiosity. Yesterday it was watch some boys bounce basketballs. You still love to cuddle. You refuse to eat bananas. Have you been talking to Aunt Shannon lately? The only 2 people who don't like bananas. When I take you to they gym I leave and you don't cry anymore. Dad just got home last night from a meeting in California. You were thrilled to see him this morning. That's a modge podge of what your life is right now.

3.29.11

Yesterday you had your 12 month check-up. You weigh 21lbs 4 oz. (25%ile), your height is 30 inches (50%ile), and your head circumference 47.5 cm (75%ile). Dr. Jeanette was surprised at how much you had to say wether it was to her, me, or one of your sisters.  You received 4 vaccinations: Hep A, Measles/Mumps/MMR, Hib, and Pneumococcal. She also prescribed some ointment for goopy eyes. You love to have me or the girls chase you around the house. Last night Sydney entertained you for about 15 minutes. She was throwing a shirt at the ceiling and screaming, and it made you laugh like crazy. You're on whole milk now and beginning to use a sippy cup. You have a blue blanket (wubie) that comforts you and you love to suck on a binky when you're tired.

3.26.11

You're finally done with your antibiotics. A few days after your birthday we went back to urgent care because you had been running high fevers. So in addition to your pink eye, you also had bronchitis and an ear infection. These days you're practically running now. Grocery shopping is more difficult since you don't want to sit in the shopping cart. You won't want to read this, but you've discovered your weenie. In the bath tub you were staring at it and pulling it.

First Birthday

You are ONE?? Yes it's true. 365 days ago we were at the hospital and I held my first son. It was a moment...a moment I wish lasted longer than just a moment. But a moment that will forever be close to my heart and a memory ingrained somewhere in my brain that I can recall at any time. We're such amazing creations, aren't we? We LOVE Levi. Sydney gets him out of his crib in the morning, he eats his breakfast. He usually takes a nap about 10:30 and another at 3:30. When you are awake you are usually in the kitchen playing w/ pots and pans or we're playing in the basement or upstairs in the girls room. So I tried taking pictures of you. Ad you can tell I got very little pictures of you looking at the camera. I have a new found respect for photographers.





Dad was in Oregon on your first birthday so we celebrated today. Actually we celebrated all we long. Sydney had spring break and since Dad was gone we LIVED it up. Let's see we went to the Imaginarium, went to a fun indoor pool place, played at Arctic Oasis, went to Chuck E Cheese, and had multiple play dates with friends.

Today we had a small birthday party to celebrate your first birthday. It was an Army theme party? The army and airforce are very much a part of our lives even though we are not a part of either. I thought for one day though that we could pretend to be american heros. I mailed out my traditional one year birthday announcements and asked family and friends to write you a letter that I will save in a box and have you open all these letters and other memorabilia from your first year of life on your 16th b-day. Here are some pictures from your army party.
When kids arrived they went to find a grenade (a camo easter egg) in the hideout. In the grenade was a dog tag and parachute guys. All the kids went to the top of the stairs and watched the parachute people fly down. This by far is the biggest fort I've ever made. I counted 8 sheets and 4 blankets that I used. The girls loved it.
We also had "target practice." I filled balloons w/ money and each kid had a chance to pop a balloon by throwing a dart (w/ needle at end of dart. There was definitely parental help here.) at the balloons and collecting their money. I also put camo paint on kids faces and then we got to the good stuff.....singing happy birthday and cupcakes.
You were the most aggressive w/ the cupcakes than Sydney or Jordyn was. You didn't touch it at first just dropped your mouth to the cupcake and took a big bite. One cupcake wasn't enough. You wanted more and ate another half of one. You were mesmerized with the lit candle and seemed to have a good time despite not participating in the "target practice" or finding the grenade in the hideout.

Poor guy, yesterday we had to go to urgent care and get you some eye drops. You had a bad eye infection with copious amounts of eye goobers. Your eyes were red and swollen today, but the eye drops are working its magic already and it is getting much better.

3.7.11

Last thursday, 3.2.11, you learned to clap. It's pretty dang cute. I've also noticed today that you point to everything. Again, it's pretty dang cute. That small, juicy, little index finger pointing around to everything. Technically you're not one, but I have switched you to the forward facing seat. I know bad mommy. But honestly the rear facing was cramping your long legs. You are the appropriate weight and height so yes, I switched it and you of course love looking out the window. You just stare at the cars and signs and everything else.

sick(ies)

I don't like when my kids are sick. It makes for good cuddling, but I feel bad I can't make you feel better. I thought this might be the first day in more than a week that you wouldn't have diahherea (however you spell that word) but this afternoon you once again soiled a diaper, your onesie, and pants. The smell is horrific. I think my olfactory nerves are becoming numb to it. Anyway it's your first sickness. You threw up on Friday and I just thought by now it would have passed through you. Your appetite is slowly coming back so that's a good sign. Let's hope you're good by next thursday, YOUR BIRTHDAY.

First Haircut

 after:

you and daddy

During your first hair cut.
Tomorrow my friend is taking Levi's one year pictures and so we thought it was time for a haircut. It was getting long and would go over his ears if I didn't tuck it back behind them. I was a little nervous to have Jeff cut his hair knowing he's getting pictures done tomorrow. Wouldn't you? Jeff has no experience cutting a baby's hair and a baby who is twisting his head every 2 seconds and lifting his hands to his head. Jeff talked me into letting him do it, this is when his salesman's selling tactics play in his favor. I succumbed and Levi now has a cute, little boy haircut. But it was a lot of work. Me and the girls' job were singing "Jesus wants me for a sunbeam" and "book of mormon stories" and entertaining him as much as possible. Levi did great. Our work paid off and Jeff was even able to break out his clippers. Now our baby boy looks more like a little dude. Such a cutie!

2.14.11

It's a few days late, but I wanted to write since you recently celebrated 11 months. It's unbelievable how quickly time goes by and how much you learn and grow each and every month. Last month 3 teeth came through on top. Instead of taking a few steps and falling, you walk around like you've been doing it your whole life :) Crawling is a thing of the past, which I prefer. Crawling meant picking up every crumb on the floor and putting in your mouth, since walking, that has stopped. Your hair is growing. It is getting pretty long. I see a first haircut coming up in a few months. Your hair is blonde and curly. At this age, your hair is more curly than Sydney's or Jordyn's was. Your first word was "mama." I would say that it's still the only coherent word too. You are becoming quite the chatter box: squealing, rolling your "r" sound, anything audible goes. You're easy to put to bed and happy when you're awake. Two things you absolutely love: bath time and swinging in the basement. This past month you've started eating human food and have nearly stopped eating all baby food. We love having you in our family....I can't say it enough.

1.20.11

Yesterday you waved for the first time. You waved to the sister missionaries. Today you kept waving to me while I was feeding you while screaming, "HIIIIIIIIIIIIII." So sweet. On a not-so-sweet note, earlier today I just caught you in time as you were about to touch Jordyn's pooh in the toilet. She hadn't gotten around to flushing it yet. You had made your way to the bathroom with hand in the yucky pooh-filled toilet. Yesterday and today I watched you take 9 steps before falling. You are a busy boy, opening cabinets to pull things out and taking trash out of the trash can.

1.12.11

You came crawling to me in the kitchen with red drool dripping from your mouth and you were fussing. I got so scared that you were bleeding from your mouth. I opened your mouth and tried wiping, what I thought was blood, with a towel. I was happy to find out that it was a red Hot Tamale that you had found. The red dye had been sucked off and the spicy nature of the candy was what you were probably fussing about. I was relieved it wasn't anything serious because I was seriously scared that something bad had happened. You are starting to eat real food. Things like bread, scrambled eggs, chicken, fruit, and vegetables, and rice. The past 2 nights you have woken up with a slight fever. You are the cutest, little thing EVER!

1.11.11

     Yesterday you turned 10 months. On this wonderful day, you woke up at 5am, for some unknown reason, and were ready for your first nap by 7:35am (he slept 3 hours). I was jealous. My eyes were hurting and I was wanting more sleep. This past month has been pretty monumental. You got another bottom tooth, learned to crawl backwards downstairs, and have taken your first steps. Your hair is getting longer and it's growing out curly. It's so cute. When you wake up from sleeping, the curly hair has turned into nappy, sleepy head. You have followed in your sisters footsteps....early walker, curly blonde hair, and I'm sure you'll be an active, curious toddler as well with lots to say. You are pure delight to have in our home. We cherish the small amount of time we have w/ you alone when the girls are in bed. I think you love it too. I love your smile, cheeks, thighs, giggles, toes, and just about everything still. The girls love you to pieces. They continue to nurture and adore you. The girls have picked up on me and dad's reaction when you have little falls, they cheer for you. I'm already thinking about what to do for your 1 year birthday, which is just not right. It's gone by SOOO fast this time around.It's much harder getting you to sit still and take a picture.

The famous 'I want more food' face. There's a loud sniffing noise that goes along with the face. The face never gets old, it cracks us up every time.
Nice curly hair. I can officially say that ALL of us have some rockin', crazy, nappy, curly locks.
Checking things out.

Back dating

Since you're only 10 months old, I thought it was capable for me to type what I have written in your journal on your blog.
JULY 1, 2009 (4 weeks)
    Whoo-hoo! Yeah! We're so excited to be having another baby. In June I was 8 days late and thought I might be prego, but was not. AFter that we thought maybe we should try and on July 9th I took a pregnancy test and it said I was pregnant. We were surprised it happened as fast as it did, but have baby fever already and are elated. A pregnancy calculator says my due date is 3/15/10. My 1st doctor appt. is Aug. 10th w/ Dr. Lindemann at Denali OB/GYN.

JULY 8, 2009 (5 Weeks)
Weight: 127lbs
bust: 34 inches
Hips/waist: 33 in.
     How I feel and any symptoms: I feel good. So excited to be expecting. It's still settling in that there is a sweet little baby inside me. This week there were several times when I was lying down and when I went to get up, I felt dizzy. By the time Sydney and Jordyn take a nap (about 1pm) I am utterly exhausted and will nap too. I get approximately 11 hours of sleep in a day. Oh, and I'm already feeling chubby.

JULY 15, 2009 (6 weeks)
weight: 130
bust 34 in
hips/waist 33 in
      Baby's development: From crown to rump, you measure about a quarter of an inch, or the size of a sweet pea. Your head is developing with a jay, cheeks, and chin. Your ear canals are in the making. Also taking shape: your kidneys, liver, and lunges, We sat Sydney and Jordyn on the couch and told them the news. Syd smiled and said she was happy. Jordyn didn't say anything, just jumped on the couch.

JULY 22, 2009 (7 weeks)
weight: 131 lbs
bust: 34
hips: 34
      How we broke the news: DAD'S family-- On July 22nd, G-ma Marianne, G-pa Gordon, Tim Sr., and Chris came to visit for 5 days. By the time they arrived my nausea/morning sickness was in full throttle and I was not feeling well at all. We were going to wait until Grandma's 76th birthday to break the news but we told them the night they came. Sydney stood on the hearth and said, "My mom is pregnant." Everyone was HAPPY.
      MOM'S FAMILY--the Lamont's, Koehler's, Lance and Khristeena were staying at mom and dad's house. I videotaped myself signing, "Lauren Shaw is pregnant. Oh yes, Oh yes I am. We are having a baby on March 15, 2010. I'm dizzy. I'm tired; and as you know I get nausea. I'll gain weight; lots of weight, but we're still happy to be pregnant." I did the song to the tune of "Jesus want me for a Sunbeam." All of them watched it on my blog and were also thrilled to hear the good news. Then we called other family.

JULY 29, 2009 (8 weeks)
      It's amazing what can happen in a week. Is it crazy to have a baby bump already? No stranger would know I'm pregnant but I can see it. My pants are tighter. I don't like any pressure on my belly--no elastic pants and no kids climbing on my belly anymore. My nausea continues. I bought sea bands to put on my wrists. I've actually been feeling better too. My sense of smell is stronger and some smell make me feel sick.

August 31, 2009 (12 weeks)
     This first trimester is officially over tomorrow as I will end week 12 and start week 13. This last month has been difficult as I've experienced more nausea. I literally did not have any energy...seriously. I hired someone to clean my house this last month, I took a nap every single day, was backed up on laundry every week, did not cook much since nights were my worst, no blogs, and no update on my pregnancy scrapbook. I don't mean to sound like I'm complaining. I'm actually grateful that I was/am sick as I know that's a good sign that the baby is doing well. We had family visit and they helped entertain the girls and relieve me of some of my motherly duties. These past few days have been better. I am excited to get my energy back: exercise, be productive when the girls are napping, and enjoy cooking and eating.

      Jeff has been a good sport. When I do get sick, I lock myself in the bathroom because I don't want Jeff or the girls to see or hear anything. It's just such a disgusting thing. The other day, however, I couldn't make it to the bathroom fast enough. Long story short, Jeff cleaned everything up. He always cleans that stuff up, even when the girls get sick, which of course, is always in the middle of the night. He does it because he knows it would make me sick, even if I wasn't pregnant. My stomach is ultra sensitive that way. He deserves a purple heart. Even though he's not in the military and I have no authority in handing those out, he deserves one because of his selflessness, just-do-it attitude, courage, and his nose and stomach that can handle the sight and smell of that nastiness.

OCTOBER 23, 2009 (20 weeks)  Here's baby shaw in 4D. I guess our little one is a little bit camera shy covering it's face w/ it's tiny little hands and arms. The technician estimated that the baby is about 9oz. and 7 inches long. It is always amazing to me when I think that a woman can carry a baby and miraculous that the baby can develop all the things it does in the womb. As you may have picked up, I don't know the gender. There's a reason for that; it might be a crazy reason, but it's our reason. We are choosing not to find out the gender until the baby is born. With Sydney and Jordyn we did know at 20 weeks that they were girls. We want to know and experience what it is like not to know until the baby is born. We're so excited that it is torturous. We can't wait until March and yet it seems so far away to welcome our new baby. I didn't know our doctor had the 4D technology so I was pleasantly surprised when he gave us our pictures. Everything is looking and developing as it should. What else more could we want?

So here I am before my appointment at 20 weeks. 

DECEMBER 13, 2009 (about 17 weeks)

       I'm seeking some advice from those who have 3 or more kids or come from a family with 3 or more kids, with my 3rd child coming very shortly. How do you or did your moms do it? (staying organized, staying awake and alert even though you're sleep deprived, feeding a family, getting out the door, having a normal conversation w/ your spouse, taking a shower w/o interruption,and any other scenarios I'm missing). Any tips, advice, and/or strategies I would love to hear so please share. PLEASE! I'm becoming nervous and worried here.

JANUARY 14, 2010 (32 Weeks)

       So I'm 32 weeks now. Do I say I'm 8 months even though I have 2 more months to go? I tell myself 8 months because it makes me feel better considering how large I am. My gait is a little awkward now, more of a waddle, because my lower back aches somewhat when I get up from sitting down. My hands get a tingling sensation more easily, I think an onset of carpel tunnel, like my other pregnancies, sleeping is more difficult as I desperately search for a comfortable position, and of course I'm dying to pee every hour it seems like. At this point, I'm sick of pregnancy clothes and look forward to the day when I can burn them. Wow, apparantly at 8 months I'm incurring some hostility, I'll blame hormones for that. So I guess now that I realized my emotional state, I should write down some of my blessings. I don't have gestational diabetes. My pregnancy isn't high risk. I'm with family instead of being home alone in AK since Jeff is back to work and traveling. I've never had to be "bed rested." I'm not throwing up anymore. I've realized that I miss my old B cup bra size and have realized that I would never want a boob job, so that just saved us thousands of dollars :) The baby is still moving a lot and I love that feeling no matter what time of day it is. I can't wait until the baby arrives finally revealing itself to us: the gender and what he/she looks like...So EXCITED!

FEBRUARY 5, 2010 (35 weeks)

        My "pregnancy moments"

While I've been pregnant, I've had some "brain fart" moments where my mind doesn't think. Here are a few that I can remember.
1. Taking a shower w/ my glasses on and not realizing they were on until they steamed up.
2. Placing the ice cream container in the fridge.
3. Squirting face cleanser on my toothbrush instead of toothpaste.
4. Calling Jeff, "Mom."
5. Confusing myself into thinking that 30 times 10= 3000. That wouldn't be so much of a brain fart if I hadn't been a high school math teacher at one point in my life.
Then there are a million times when I go into a room w/ a purpose and completely forget why I went in there, but that even happens when I'm not prego.

FEBRUARY 15, 2010

   The other day I went to the mall (my first time in Anchorage since I know they don't have a play area for kids. I don't understand why all malls don't have a little play area for kids). I went to Motherhood Maternity for a shirt. Of course I grabbed a large, cuz HELLO I'm really large. To my surprise I was swimming in it. The women handed me a small, which was still a little big. I was flattered and for a second believed I was small, but who am I kidding. Almost all 8 month prego girls are not small. Why is there such a size? It should really be SXL (Small for the eXtra Large person). So it got me thinking....these are reasons I KNOW I'm not a small. 

1. When I ask my girls to take my shoes and socks off because it's hard to reach that far, I KNOW I'm not a small.
2. When I can't see my feet because my stomach is in the way, I KNOW I'm not a small.
3. When I need elastic on my jeans because a zipper is just out of the question, I KNOW I'm not a small.
4. When I take a break half way up a flight of stairs because I'm already winded, I KNOW I'm not a small.
5. When I weigh more than my hubby, I KNOW I'm not a small. (not like he's a big person or anything just weighs a lot more than I usually do).
6. When Sydney tells me I'm "big," I KNOW I'm not a small.
7. When I have to scoot my drivers seat back because my tummy is hitting the steering wheel, I KNOW I'm not a small.
8. When I need to put a napkin on my tummy because my shirt would get dirty if food fell on it because it sticks out so much, I KNOW I'm not a small.
So although the "SMALL" felt good for a second, it didn't fool me. I'm maybe a small on the Extra Large spectrum and I'm good with that.... for right now. I won't be okay with that 6 months from now.

FEBRUARY 27, 2010 (about 38 weeks)

      Belly, Bust, and Beyond

My friend took some pictures of me pregnant. I haven't done this with the other girls and I don't know how many kids we'll have so I wanted to capture my body, bust and beyond at full term. I don't plan on hanging these pictures up around my house and/or showing the others outside of my blog. I've always felt a little awkward with the whole pregnancy picture thing, maybe that's why I haven't done it before. Most of the pictures I saw online were with nude women and and there aren't a whole lot of poses. The cheesy poses i.e. the hubby "listening" to the belly make me laugh out loud. You're probably thinking I'm a cold, heartless mom right now. That's not it at all. I love when my kids and hubby talk and love on the baby, but trying to capture it w/ a picture seems to come out cheesy and not authentic. Anyway, I'll probably make my personal maternity scrapbook because I will want to see and reflect on my pregnancy. I'm thankful I can have this miraculous experience of conceiving life. It's a blessing and honor. Unfortunately I take it for granted. I hope having pictures of all sorts (even the cheesy ones) and writing about my thoughts and feelings will always remind me of the sacred opportunity to carry and bear life. Although I can't wait to hold and look into the eyes of my child and get back into my old clothes, I will miss my belly hitting into things. I will miss feeling the baby move inside, I will miss hearing the heart beat at the doctor, I will miss the anticipation of its' coming, I will miss my belly being a conversation starter, and I will miss seeing my body transform before my eyes because of the growth of the baby-- just another testimony to me that God is the Creator of all things.

MARCH 6, 2010 (39 weeks)

   It's the Saturday before you are to be born. Your due date is march 15th, but I'm getting induced on Wednesday, March 10th. Right now, Dad just got home from the temple and Sydney has her ice skating lesson at 10"30. We are all anxious to finally see and hold you. We don't know if you are going to be a boy or girl. The anticipation is getting intense. If you are a boy, we like the name Levi. If you are a girl, we like the name Lexi. I honestly have no idea what you will be. It doesn't matter if you are a boy or girl, because you will be loved and adored either way. We're so grateful to have you as part of your family. Your older sisters will love and cherish you also. I know they will shower you with love, kisses, hugs, and attention-probably more than you will want. This pregnancy with you has been similar to the others-morning sickness the 1st trimester and pretty good the rest of the time. No stretch marks, no bed rest, no gestational diabetes. A little heart burn, leg cramps, and typical discomfort  towards the end. I love to feel you kick, hiccup, and roll. I love to hear your heartbeat at the doctor and look at your sonogram pictures. It's a blessing and miracle to carry you and it will be a blessing to give birth and to raise you in our home. We love you already and are happy beyond words to have you as our child.


MARCH 9, 2010 (40 weeks)
         The time is coming. The long 40 weeks of anticipation is here and I couldn't be anymore excited. I feel like a giddy school girl ready to start school the next day or like a child knowing Santa Claus will be coming to my house via the chimney tomorrow or the day before I got married. All of these scenarios made it impossible for me to sleep the night before and once I did get to sleep I woke nearly every hour looking at the clock to see if it was time for me to get up. Today my mom is flying here, Jeff is off work for the next 6 weeks, and I'm ready to go (bag is packed, newborn clothes washed, house cleaned, and eager to see what are new family dynamics will look and feel like). We decided to have me be induced tomorrow so that is the reason I'm talking about things happening tomorrow. The reason(s) for the induction is probably what you can guess: with 2 kids already I wanted to plan around my mom being here so I don't have to make an unpleasant call to a friend at 3am telling her my water broke and if she could come watch my kids. Another reason is that my birthday is coming up and I don't think my child would want to share the same birthday. That's a dumb reason, but it's the same reason why I wouldn't want my child to be born on Christmas day.
         So what do you think I'm having? I wonder the same thing. Right now I will take a gander and say, "BOY." Over Christmas vacation I had some family members guess the day, gender, time of day, height, and weight. Whomever comes closest with those categories will get the first phone call of our big news. I know it's kindof silly, but I like making things "fun" like that. So take a guess and soon when I get the chance, your inquiring minds will know what's been growing inside my belly for the past 40 weeks as I post pictures.


MARCH 10, 2010 (HAPPY BIRTHDAY!)
  - 7:45am: got to hospital
  -7:45-8:40am filling out paper work, answering questions, poked for IV, threw up. Dilated to 1, Efaced @ 60%.
  -8:40 Potocin began
  -8:40-9:40am Jeff is buying a tripod and washing the van. I checked out my email and facebook. Talked to Gammie. She told me Jordyn threw up this morning. She's playing a game w/ Sydney. I'm also working on a Sudoku puzzle. Dad gave me a blessing. Watching it snow ouside. When we drove to the hospital it was 7 degrees. 
  -9:40-10:40 Epidural nurse came to talk to me about the epidural. Dad is back. Ate orange popsicle, went pee, increased potocin to 4.
  -10:40-11:40 went pee. Epidural by Patty. It went good and now my legs are numb. katie put a catheter in. Now waiting for Dr. Lindemann to come and break my water.
  -12:10  Dr. Lindemann came to break my water. Prior to that my blood pressure dropped and I felt nausea almost threw up. Going to watch a movie: PRIDE. Dr. said I was dilated to a 3 or 4.
  -12:10-1:10 me and dad slept and talked to Dr. L about kids and skiing.
  -2:15 Katie is setting up for delivery. Potocin is off now.
  -2:50 dilated to 7/8. Head is very low. Katie is calling Dr. L to come back from his office.
  -3pm Still dilate at an 8 but started pushing when I felt pressure during contractions.
  -4:30pm you were crowning. Stated pushing harder. Your head was turned sideways. Dr. L was trying to twist your head. The pressure was painful. I pushed about 5 times and at 4:39pm you were out completely.
      I could see you come out. I saw your head and chest and kept asking dad, "What is it???" but he didn't know either because your lower body hadn't come out yet. I pushed again and you were out (4:39pm) the Dr. lifted you up and I could hear dad say, "It's a boy!" and ten we both could see that you were a boy. Both of us were teary eyed and just so happy to see you and know you were a healthy boy. 


MARCH 12, 2010: 2 DAYS OLD    
      We're so happy to finally have Levi here with us. He was born on Wed. March 10th at 4:39pm. Everything went pretty smoothly. The moment we saw it was a boy was very exciting and met all my expectations. It was one of the most exciting moments of my life and Jeff agrees. You can see just how elated Jeff is in the picture of him and Levi. Levi weighed 7lbs. 12 oz. and was 20.5 inches. We came home from the hospital last night. Today he has pooped about 6-7 times, eats like a champ, and is sleeping when he isn't eating or pooping. I find joy in staring at him, holding him next to me, watching him sneeze, kissing him, touching his soft cheeks, and trying to change a diaper without getting squirted on. I can't believe he was inside of me just 3 days ago. It doesn't seem possible. The whole experience is a miracle and I'm so grateful to be part of it. I hope to treasure the simple and quiet moments of my time with each of my children and of Levi while he is so small and perfect.


MARCH 14, 2010: 4 DAYS OLD
      Today is my 31st birthday. I hope you don't mind that our birthdays are close together. The best gift is having you sleep in my arms today. We cuddled a lot while dad, your sisters, and Gammie were at church. You are so sweet and tender. I can't say "I love you" enough. I say it all the time in your ears. When we're alone, usually at night when I'm feeding you we talk and I sing you songs. These past few days since we got home from the hospital have been special for me. Just watching and caring after you brings me so much joy. Friday and Sat. your pooped 6-7 times, you burp and sleep well. Last night you had your first bath at home. We took video. You didn't like it much. You also had some tummy time. Sydney and Jordyn love to kiss you and take care of you. Jordyn calls you BOOBYE.


MARCH 17, 2010: 1 WEEK OLD
      Today is St. Patricks day and your 1 week b-day. I have enjoyed your presence everyday. I'm so grateful that you are part of our eternal family. I'm thankful that you are strong and healthy. When you left the hospital you weighed 7lbs 10.9oz. Yesterday you had your 1st doctor appt. She said you looked great. You weighed 7lbs. 12.8oz. I had to get some help from the lactation consultant. My left wasn't producing mile and I was in a great deal of pain. She gave me a breast shield and that has helped so much.. You sleep very well at night. You actually sleep in the same room w/ Gammie. When you need mild, she comes in and gets me. Last night I fed you at 11pm. I fed you again at 3:30 and then at 8am. Me, dad, Syd, and Jordyn love you so much ad the girls love to take care of you.
You are a mellow baby. Only fuss when you're getting your diaper changed which is every feeding or when you're naked in your little bath tub. You love being warm, cuddled in blankets. 
You also like to sprawl out and look around when you're awake. Your daily activities include eating,   
filling a diaper, tooting, burping, tummy time, sleeping, receiving hugs and kisses from everyone, and looking around. What a life!
MARCH 20, 2010: (10 DAYS OLD)
     Right now you're sleeping and dad took the girls to Sydney's ice skating lesson. Now is a good time to write. This morning Gammie left to go home. Last night was the first night you stayed in our room. You did pretty good. I was happy to get some sleep. Your belly button stub came off completely this morning. I lost 15 lbs in a week. last week dad had gone out and bought you a bunch of clothes. He was so proud and I was shocked because he never has done that. It was cute! Dad helps out with the girls a lot, but he loves spending time with you and holding you. He changes a lot of your diapers too. All of us just love you to pieces. 


MARCH 24, 2010: (2 WEEKS OLD)
These are a few of my favorite things (about Levi): 

That the back of his head fits into my palm.
I can see his capillaries on his cheeks.
His super soft skin
His skinny legs, before the baby chub comes.
The flaky skin on his soft hands and feet
Sleep smiles
When he sleeps w/ his mouth open
Watching him stretch: arching his back, knees to tummy, and arms over his head
His blond eyelashes
When he falls asleep in my arms
actually there isn't 1 thing I can think of that isn't my favorite right now.

SEPTEMBER 10, 2010 (6 MONTHS OLD)

Has it been 6 months already since I was in the hospital with the wonderful surprise that we had a baby boy? The excitement for a boy, the sweet moments when I held you for the first time and looked into your eyes and said, "I love you, LEVI." Where has the time gone? Our sweet little boy in 6 short months has accomplished so much.
-Rolling over
-Eating baby food
-Smiling, laughing, babbling
-Holding your head up
-Discovering your hands and feet
-Gaining 9 lbs
Your personality is very easy going. You are such a happy and content baby. You love playing peek-a-boo, watching me sing itsy,bitsy spider, and pretending you have stinky feet. You love to watch your sisters play together. The funniest thing (at least to me) is when the girls get too close in his personal space and you have learned that if you pulls on their hair with that strong baby grip, they will move away from him after they have screamed and gotten their hair back. Did I mention you're a smart little guy too? You love food. In the morning I sit you in your chair. I put your baby food on the table, and you shake with excitement. I'm starting to teach you sign language like I did with the girls. You're getting close to crawling. We're so thankful to have you as part of our family. You bless our lives everyday as does Sydney and Jordyn. 

NOVEMBER 10, 2010 (8 MONTHS OLD)

You turned 8 months a few days ago. With every month that passes, I am in awe how quickly the time is going. This past month is no different. Your 7 month should be called the Month of Mobility. You learned in one month to sit up by himself and mastered the art of crawling. As if that wasn't enough, you've learned to climb upstairs and furniture walk. You are one busy boy now exploring all the details of a house i.e. the water comeing out of the refridgerator into a cup, the vacuum, the dishwasher, outlets, remotes, and door stoppers are just to name a few. Last Saturday, I had my scentsy thing on, and you yanged on the cord, spilling the liquidfied wax on your head and onesie. Luckily you didn't get any burns, but you still have wax stuck on your head. Not sure how to get that out. The good news, your head smells like cinnamon.

                                                                        

NOVEMBER 27, 2010 (8 1/2 MONTHS OLD)

        Hi "buddy." It is so fun to see you grow and develop. You crawl all over the house. you are my little shadow and love to see what Dad is doing. The past couple night we had so much fun playing and wrestling together. Both your sister were asleep. I can tell how much you love to have mom and dad's attention at the same time. I love to see you laugh and smile. You are such a good boy. I love you! Dad.