A Bit of a Family Resemblance

There might be a bit of a family resemblance :)  Pictures of your Dad coming soon!

See, I add embarrassing pictures of myself as well!

Special Stocking

Your Great-grandma Abbie has made Christmas stockings for every generation (except hers).  Your Grandpa and his siblings all have similar looking stockings.  I and my cousins all have similar looking stockings; they are different than our parents.  All of the people who married into the family have similar looking stockings; they are different yet from the others.  And, she has continued that with the great-grandchildren.  You were privileged enough to get one of these stocking this year!  It was a labor of love and we love that she did this for us.

Four Month Check-up

Today was your four month check-up.  Everything went well.  You are 17 lbs 12.5 oz. (90th percentile), 26.5 inches long (93rd percentile), and have a head circumference of 43.5 cm (75th percentile).  

I was extremely impressed by the nurse.  She gave you your shots so quickly you didn't even realize until the third one that you were supposed to be crying and by then she was done. 

Kim says you turn your head a bit too much to the left (that's always the direction it seems to flop to in your swing) so we are going to work on getting you to turn to the right more.

A Year Ago Today

Exactly a year ago today, I had your dad drop me off at the tanning place downtown.  It was the Sunday after Christmas.  My parents had been here and your dad's parents had come the day after Christmas for dinner.  

Over Thanksgiving, we had decided that we were open to the idea of having a kid.  I had felt tired over Christmas but thought that was just because of everything going on.  However, I was a bit late and thought I would check and see.  So, on my way home, I walked to the Rite Aid and bought a pregnancy test.  

I walked home and went straight to the bathroom without telling your dad what I was thinking.  With this particular test, you are supposed to wait for 2 minutes to know for sure what the results are...it was clear in about 30 seconds.  I immediately went to tell your dad (he was doing dishes).  He was so excited.  We hardly slept at all that night. A year ago today our lives changed forever.  Happy one year!

Always with the Look of Shock

Christmas 2010

Christmas has come and gone.  It's been quite the busy weekend.  Your Dad and I are not feeling like doing much today!  

I think you have enjoyed the lights on the tree as much as anything.  Grandma and Grandpa Shaffar came on Thursday.  We went to the Magic at the Mill and looked at lights there that evening.  Mike and Kathleen came over Friday and we had tamales and tacos for dinner and opened presents.  Uncle Matt stopped Christmas morning, ate a piece of chocolate cake, and dropped Ace off to hang with us until Tuesday.  Then, Grandma and Grandpa Jones and Donald came for Christmas dinner.  Donald kicked your mom's hiney in Canasta.  He's quite the card shark!

Your Dad and I both felt that Christmas meant so much more with you here this year.  Thank you!  I will post more about what you got for Christmas later.

Next Size Up

A couple of weeks ago, we had to go through your clothes again.  I got a little worried that you were going to outgrow the outfit that Aunt Lois and Claudia gave you before I could get a picture so we took some when we were at the coast.

The Flash...or Looks of Surprise

Dad and I had fun taking pictures of you yesterday evening.  The flash on the camera kept giving you a look of surprise...pretty darn cute!

First Shoes and Sand

All three of us came to Lincoln City, for a few days, yesterday to celebrate our anniversary.  Your Dad and I try to do something like this each year...for our anniversary and Christmas.  Last year we came to Lincoln City too.  It's nice to come here because it's so close; only an hour drive, and in the winter there's a lot less people.  Plus, the rooms are more affordable.  

The problem with Lincoln City is outlet shopping; I have very little resistance.  We did pretty well this year though.  Your Dad finally won and you got your first pair of shoes.  A pair of Robeez that look like little tennis shoes.  I think I resisted because it makes you look so grown-up.  We also found a great hat and mittens for you. 

With your new warm duds, we took you for your first walk on the beach.  Dad carried you in your Kelty pack; you promptly fell asleep.  Apparently, you weren't too excited :)

Breastfeeding as a Meditative Activity

I always have a hard time relaxing and taking the time to just "be."  I never thought breastfeeding or pumping would provide that opportunity/lesson.  It's certainly possible to do other things while I'm feeding you...and I do.  But, I've started taking the opportunity when I pump at work to just sit quietly for the 10 minutes that it takes.  Sometimes, I think about you; sometimes, I thing about other things.  But mostly, I just close my eyes and try to quiet my mind.  I'm choosing to see this time as a gift.  Most of the time at work, if I take a break, I just surf the net.  Taking time to close my eyes and quiet my mind is much better.  Thank you for showing me that! 

And, I would never trade the quiet morning feedings with you snuggled up close to me for anything in the world.

My Year in Status -2010

There was a cool little app on Facebook today that put together a list of the status posts for the year.  I was able to pick and choose which ones I wanted.  Thought I'd put it here since a number of them dealt with you!  I might even send out copies with the Christmas cards that will be a bit late...again.

Being a Better Person

Usually, our spouse is a person who makes us want to be a better person.  Andrew does that some for me but he is loving and supportive either way (whether I'm better or not) and I love him so much for that.  You, however, are a new person that my actions will help to shape.  For that and my love for you, you make me want to be a better person!

Ultrasound Pictures From 20 Weeks

Wild Cat Covered Bridge

Today we came home from visiting family on the coast.  Your Dad and I like the coffee shop in Florence and the toy store.  So, for a change of pace and view, we decided to come home that way.  For some reason, maybe because the leaves are gone, I saw a covered bridge on the way that I didn't realize was there before.  I had your Dad turn around and we stopped to take a look.  It turned out to be a fine photo op as well!  You weren't too impressed but I didn't really expect you to get excited about a covered bridge at 3 months...I'll give you a bit longer :)

Your First Thanksgiving

Seems like it will get old, this "first" this and "first" that...but I guess it comes with the territory.  Today is Thanksgiving.  We are going this year to the Shaffar side of the family.  I really wanted to get to see your "twin" Elliana.  Hard to believe the two of you were born a day apart.  Uncle Chris got a kick out of holding you both.  Elliana was a bit displeased.  You just took a snooze.  Got a picture of you and all of the other great-grandchildren.  I'm so glad your great-grandparents are still alive and in such good health.  They are very special people!

First Snow Day

Can't believe it...it snowed today!  We never get snow here in November.  It even snowed on the coast.  I was 7 or 8 before there was snow in Bandon.  Your Dad, however, was born during an ice storm in Wyoming...but that doesn't count :)  Anyway, I drove to work rather than ride my bike today.  Your Dad took the pictures for us.

Dinner at Don and Steph's

We just got back from dinner at Don and Steph's in Silverton.  It was the first time Steph had met you and needless to say she thought you were pretty darn cute.  Their labradoodle, Grover, thought you were pretty interesting too.  He gave you a few kisses while you were on the floor.  Didn't faze you too much!

Mom's First Week Back and Rocky Top Trail

We made it through my first week back at work.  Your Dad is awesome!  I don't have to worry about you; I know he takes good care and loves you so much.  In celebration we all went hiking today to Rocky Top Trail.  Your Dad and I tried to do this one last year and there was too much snow.  Oddly enough, it was also in November but about a week later.  The top of the trail ends at about 5000 feet; used to be a lookout.  Anyway, we made it with no snow...there was a lot of fog and wind though.  We don't have gloves for you so I put socks on your hands.  We put you in the Moby wrap and your Dad managed to get my jacket zipped around us.  You did pretty well.  Got a little fussy at the top but I think it's because you didn't like the wind.  You fell asleep on the way back down and I tucked your head under my jacket.  We stopped and got coffee and cookies on the way home at Rosies Cafe...you spit up all over me.  I love you so much :)

Your Crazy Mother

Just a couple pictures of your crazy mother not too long before you were born.

Here we are collecting honey the first weekend of August.

 

And, here we are after we just got back from kayaking two days before you were born.  We went camping in Lebanon with Mike and Kathleen for Mike's birthday.

Photo by Kathleen Thorpe

Sweet Note from Pat Delgado

Dear Dylan,

 

I have known your mommy and daddy since I arrived in Salem to be near your friend Maya Maynard. I am her Mimi. By-the-way I hope you will call me Mimi too.

When I met your parents I felt an instant connection because they are so very special, giving and their generosity of heart is immeasurable.

What a fortunate young man you are to have such wonderful parents.

I am sending you love always,

(Pat) Mimi to you

Dry Run

Today is the first day I've spent the entire day away from you.  Right now I'm sitting in a coffee shop in downtown Salem getting ready to come home to you.  All in all, I think it has been a good day.  Today is a Thursday and I go back to work full-time on Monday.  Your dad and I thought we'd have a trial run.  I think it was more for me than anyone.  I worked at the office this morning and then went shopping, tanning and of course had to get a pumpkin latte at the coffee shop - it is that time of year.  


This morning I was busy at work with the new database so that went well.  Things fell apart a bit when I called your dad to see how things were going.  I'm feeling pretty good now.


Until I became a mother, I would never had understood this feeling.  As you will learn, I'm not really a touchy-feely kind of person. But, I do have this intense love for you that is making it hard to have other priorities.  I keep telling myself that I will actually be a better mom if I maintain my social contacts and physical stuff (like dragon-boating).  I hope this isn't a lie I'm telling myself to feel better.  It's hard; you don't seem to know that I'm leaving or even care.  In some ways that makes it feel easier.  But at some level, I want you to want me to be there with you.  I think that's the selfish part of me ;)  Either way, this is how it is and your dad is doing great! 

Satisfied Little Guy

Grandma Bonnie came today (she tries to come every Wednesday) and brought a few outfits from your Great-Aunt and Great-Grandma Jones in Utah.  The first outfit was 0-3 months and adorable.  However, it was all I could do to get you into it!  The pants fit but the onesie was too tight.  The second one is a sleeper (3-6 months) and fits perfect.  You haven't worn the other one yet. 

I think these pictures show just what a satisfied little guy you can be!  Love the looks on your face and I love you.

Two Month Check-up

Today was your two month check-up.  You weighed 14 lbs 10 oz and were 23.5 inches long.  There was some discussion about your weight.  Its pretty high :)  Like in the 97 percentile high.  But, Kim thinks you are doing fine.  She also told us your skin looks better than most babies at your age.  Your dad had noticed some red bumps so he was a bit concerned.

It was so hard for me to watch the nurse give you your shots.  You got three today and a liquid thing they had you drink.  I'm so grateful your dad was there...he's much better at dealing with these things than I am.  He helped hold you while the nurse gave you the shots.  You screamed a bit but then you calmed down.  We brought you home and you feel asleep on my chest for about an hour and then I nursed you.  At that point, you were back to being Mr. Giggles!

Coast Visit with Uncle Matt

You and I joined Uncle Matt today on a trip down to Coos Bay.  Your cousin Alexander had a flag football game.  While I went to get lunch, Mandy watched you and her friend took these pictures on her phone.  

Inside the Pumpkin

Your Dad carved one of the pumpkins and we decided to try and stuff you in one for a photo opportunity.  Let's just say you didn't think that was the best idea.  You were definitely not in love with it.  But it looked pretty darn cute!

Another Pumpkin Patch

Today we took you took the pumpkin patch called "Another Pumpkin Patch."  We were going to go with Grandma and Grandpa Shaffar this weekend but it was raining too much.  Today was just gorgeous.  We took Bailey last year and had a great time.  She had a great time again this year playing with the owner's dog.  Not too sure you knew or cared where we were.  I had Dad and I wear black shirts and you wore your Beaver onesie.  That way we got a nice family picture.  Your Dad picked out two huge pumpkins.  I like this pumpkin patch because the pumpkins are cheap and they donate the proceeds to either the Marion-Polk Food Bank or Farmer's Ending Hunger.  Your Dad wants to carve the pumpkins and stuff you inside of one.  Not sure how that's going to go!

You Rolled Over Today

We were giving you tummy time and Bailey walked in front of you.  It happened to slowly I almost didn't realize it.  You were following Bailey with your eyes and all of a sudden you were on your back!

Mushroom Picking - Or Nursing in the Wild

Today your Dad, Grandpa Bud and I took you mushroom picking out at the Winchester Trails.  Well, actually, you rode in the Moby wrap and I pointed out chanterelles for Dad and Grandpa Bud to pick.  I'm so excited to start doing these things with you.  I'm not always the most outdoorsy person but I can wait to show you the things I love.  Your Grandpa Bud and I used to pick mushrooms down the road from our house.  I spent a lot of time crawling around under salal.  When your Dad and I met, he had never gone mushroom picking.  Now he loves it - it's a lot like an Easter egg hunt for adults.  While it has taken me a bit to adjust to nursing, I do love that it makes everything so very portable.  When you got hungry, we just sat down on the side of the trail and nursed.  How's that for a wild child!

Baby Open House

I wasn't really into the idea of a baby shower.  Rachel and Mandy had offered so I asked them to hold a baby open house - meet and greet type of thing.  Originally, we were going to do it in October but since you were 11 days early and the weather would likely be nicer we decided to do it today.  And, wouldn't you know - it's raining cats and dogs.  So much for having it outside at Great-grandma and Great-grandpa's.  Instead we had to do it in the house.  It went well!  You got a lot of really wonderful gifts.  A special one is the Curious George glass window hanging Carolyn Otsen made you.  If it takes a village to raise a child you have a big village with lots of wonderful people in it.

Two Week Check-up

Can you believe it?  You are two weeks old and doing so well.  Kim called you a bruiser.  You weight is 10 lbs 5 oz and you are 21.5 inches long!  I had to hold you today while the nurse got blood out of your heel for the follow-up PKU test.  Five spots she had to fill on the blotter paper...your Dad and I almost came unglued.  She poked your heel and then squeezed, and squeezed, and squeezed...it seemed like she was squeezing forever and that was just for the first one.  Oh well at least it's over.

You Met Your Great-Grandma Shaffar Today

Your Dad and I took you to Eugene today to have lunch with Great-grandma Shaffar, Aunt Mandy and your cousin Cameron.

Photo from Mandy Pollin

You're a Government Statistic

As if you weren't just by being born but now it's official.  Can't believe how quickly they put you in the system.  Stupidly enough, I think it's the first piece of mail with your name on it too.

Two Day Check-up

Well we've been home from the hospital for two days now.  You are doing well and Dad and I are adjusting.  It's kind of scary being home with you and not being at the hospital where all the nurses can help.  We took you in to see the pediatrician, Kim, today.  Some babies, especially breast-fed babies, take a bit to regain the weight they lost after birth.  You apparently don't have that problem.  Wednesday morning they weighed you before we left.  You were 8 lbs 3 oz.  Today, you were 8 lbs 10 oz.  Two ounces more than your birth weight.  I guess my milk is coming in just fine.

Thai Food with Mike, Kathleen and Tim

Mike, Kathleen and Tim brought a huge selection of food from Thai Beer tonight.  Mike brought a thoughtful card so I'd figured share it here.

Taking You Home!

You and I had to stay in the hospital for two days (instead of one) because I tested positive for the group B strep (GBS) bacteria.  It wasn't a problem but they give penicillian to the mom 4 hours before delivery.  Well you and I were so quick about our business that they didn't have 4 hours.  Therefore, we had to stay to watch you.  So, today you and I got to go home!  I was kind of ready the afternoon after you got here but then again I'm not all that patient.  You'll learn that as you grow up.  Dad and I should have tried using the car-seat before you got here.  What a pain.  It's hot today and your poor Dad was out there in the sun trying to figure out how to make the straps looser.  We finally made it but what a pain.  It's like all of the adrenaline and energy I had in the hospital has left. I ended up handing you to your dad and taking a 2 hour nap.  I feel a lot better now but it's pretty scary to have you here to ourselves.

Your Birth Story

Photos by Kathleen Thorpe

I can't believe you're really here (or that I'm sharing a picture of us right after birth).  You decided to make an early appearance.
 

I started feeling uncomfortable around 1:30 am Monday morning.  Thought I was just having digestive issues...it can come with the territory you know.  Pretty soon I realized it wasn't digestive issues.  Soon there was nothing left in my stomach or the other way and around 4 am I realized that this was probably the real thing.  I tried waking your dad up, telling him I thought I was having contractions.  He woke up enough to ask how close they were.  I told him I wasn't sure; they just seemed to keep coming!  Naturally, he fell back asleep.  

I went back to the other side of the house and focused on contractions for a bit longer.  Then, I called your dad on his cell phone.  That finally got him out of bed since it was in the living room.  He came and rubbed my back for a bit and I told him we'd probably better start packing.  So, he ran around getting stuff I thought I'd need, took a shower, then I took a shower, and around 6:20 we headed over to the hospital.  At this point, things were feeling really uncomfortable.  Dad dropped me off, went to park the car, and returned to find me kneeling on the floor over an ottoman.  Honestly, it was one of the best positions.  Some guy walked by while Dad was gone and wondered if I was okay.  Absolutely; it was so much better than standing or sitting.

After much prompting, he finally got me on the elevator and up to the labor triage nurse.  She gets me hooked up and checks me and is somewhat surprised to find I'm already 6cm dilated.  By the time they got me all checked in and up to Labor and Delivery (approximately 40 minutes) I was at 8 cm.  Keeping in mind, 10 cm is the end goal.  It was all happening quite quick...but it sure didn't feel quick enough!  

Of course, when we checked in we found out that all of our midwives were at a training for the next two days.  So, a very nice doctor who works at the hospital ended up doing the delivery...but to be honest, it's really the Labor and Delivery nurse/s that do the hard work- just don't tell the doctors that!  

Turns out I'm a very internal person...do not touch me when I'm in labor.  I don't want you around and I surely don't want to be touched.  Our friend Kathleen got there around 8:30 ish.  Honestly, didn't do much for me but she was so wonderful for your Dad.  She reminded him to breath and was able to tell him how things were going to go.  Plus, afterwards she took great pictures for us.  So glad she could be there with us...I just didn't want to chat during the fact.

The Labor and Delivery nurse, Brenda, was awesome as well.  Really patient with me.  Asked me what my plan was...ummm...don't know.  Pretty much just want to have a baby.  Finally, she asked if I wanted to get in the tub.  YES!  That was the best plan.  The tub really helped.  When I got out of the tub, she checked me and I was fully dilated and she accidentally broke my water.  What a mess...labor is not a clean sport.  At that point, I was told I could push when my body told me to...since I wasn't on any drugs for pain I was assured I would know.  Let me tell you, you still don't really know until all of sudden and then it's like okay I'm going to push.  At 10:26 am, you joined us.  What a relief.  At that point, I just felt relaxed, happy and done. And, maybe a little hungry :)

You are an 8lbs 8oz 21 inches long bundle of joy.  I've always questioned the sanity of having children, even after I got pregnant.  I'm sure I'll question it again, but for now, you're just the most perfect thing in my life.  And in no way am I upset you came 11 days early...that head was plenty big enough!  Hard to believe we were camping and kayaking over the weekend and giving birth on Monday.  You're a special boy ;)

PS. Dad thought I was having Braxton-Hicks contractions until the triage nurse said I was 6cm dilated...seriously, I knew they were the real thing :)