Our Little Family

Presenting our sweet baby girl: Clara Cate

2011-08-06T12:53:00.009-08:00

Fresh out of the oven :)

Clara was born in our bathtub at home

Meeting his baby sister :)

Ben loved her instantly!

Grandma Debbie and Clara

Granma Cathie helping with the newborn exam. Clara was 21.5 inches long!

Our big girl! Clara outweighed both her brothers coming in at 8 lbs 12 oz!

Daddy's Girl

My amazing midwifes: Chinmayo, Suzie and Stella

Love the squishy lips :)

Granma Cathie and her first granddaughter :)

1st trip to the park

Our pretty pink princess!

Ben loved getting to hold his baby sister for the 1st time!

Tummy Tub

Clara Cate was born on July 22nd, 2011. She arrived at 4:12pm weighing 8 lbs. 12 oz and was 21.5 inches long. She was born at our home in the bathtub. We are so in love with this little girl! Her brothers love her and Ben is super sweet and gentle with her. Noah, on the other hand, loves to kiss her but being a 2 year old he's a little unpredictable and we are never sure if he's going to bop her with a toy. So, it's constant defense strategy when Noah is around!
My mom was here visiting us for 3 weeks and was a huge help before and after baby arrived. I was very sad to see her go! But so appreciative that she could come out and help!
Brent and I are adjusting well to life with 3 kiddos!

It's a GIRL!!!!!

2011-02-20T21:00:00.003-09:00

Our sweet baby girl :)

And sweet little feet too!

Yup that's right - It's a GIRL! A GIRL!!! I'm 2 days out from the ultrasound and I can still hardly believe it. I was totally convinced this little one was a boy and was ready to carry on my life as a mother to 3 boys and be perfectly fine with it. But God must have known how much my heart truly longed to have a daughter...
The ultrasound went wonderful and the technician kept commenting on how pretty she was and what a cute button nose she had. Everything is where it should be and her parts seems to be accounted for. I think my due date will stay the same but we'll see how the doctors report comes back. She weighed approximately 9 oz and measured about a week ahead of my due date.
My sister is here visiting and we have had lots of fun picking out clothes for her at a few stores. Lots of colorful outfits! So much to choose from!!! I already have big plans for room changes in our house and I am excited to get started on those before our little girl arrives.

Hawaii 2010

2011-01-30T13:55:00.014-09:00

Noah trying out Mom's shoes and his monkey "backpack" at the condo

I'm so funny!

Ben's 1st day at the beach - he loved the sand and playing in the water!

Me and my boys at Ko 'Olina - our first full day on Oahu

Who needs a hat when I can just wear this sand pail on my head???

In the ocean at Lanikai Beach

First day with just mom and Noah at Duke's beach

The playground at the zoo... it was perfect because it was shaded!!!

Climbing the giraffe at the zoo

The Honolulu Aquarium

Mmmm... Yougurtland! I would "drive" them home in the stroller while they ate their frozen yogurt and then literally haul them into the tub right when we got home!

Who needs toys when I can play the drums on cereal boxes???

Me and my mom

Rest time at the beach

Lunch at Turtle Cove

My sweet angel faced boy :)

My mom and I at Turtle Cove

Ben and Granma at the storyteller statue

Apple juice at Starbucks before hitting the beach!

Fireworks!

Noah and Granma at the Hilton Lagoon

Granma and her boys :)

Sacked out after a hard day at the beach!

Our Dolphin Watch cruise

I really had to keep a hold of Noah so he wouldn't fall over because of the rocking boat... and waht was I thinking wearing a skirt out on the ocean? Way to windy for that!!!

Waikiki at night

The Friday fireworks show - Ben loved this and we tried to go every Friday night we were there

Ko 'Olina

Granma and the boys at Ko 'Olina

Ben and Brent at Ko 'Olina

I buried Ben and made him some legs and feet out of sand - he loved it!

Mmmm... hot corn on the cob at the pumpkin patch

Yum!

This kept Noah occupied the whole rest of the time we were at the patch!

Ben picking out pumpkins

Dole Plantation

Having pineapple icecream or "Dole Whip" at the Dole Plantation

Noah checking out the pineapple plants

Ben the Pineapple Man!

Date Night!

Happy 3rd Birthday Benjamin!

Our family for Ben's sunset birthday dinner

My mom, the boys and me on Ben's birthday

So excited!

Happy Birthday to you...

Cupcakes are yummy!

I love this picture because of the sky in the background!

Happy Halloween!

Noah at Lanikai Beach

Lanikai Beach - my favorite - the sand is so soft I could play in it all day!

Me and my hubby :)

The sand mountain at Lanikai

Big waves on the North Shore

Turtle Cove on a rough sea day...no one was allowed in the water

In October of 2010 we went to Hawaii for a month! Brent had to work for 3 weeks then he took a week off so we could have some family vacation time. My mom also came out for a week while Brent was still working and got to have a fun time and I got some help with the kids. Here are the highlights of our trip:

*Going to the beach almost everyday
*Hilton Lagoon - perfect spot for the kids - no waves
*Ko 'Olina Lagoons and their yummy turkey sanwiches
*Yougurtland!!!
*The zoo and the zoo playground
*Walking every night after Brent got home from work - it was dark but so warm!
*My mom coming out and helping me with the kids
*Ben's 3rd Birthday celebration - pizza and cupcakes on the beach at sunset!
*Lanikai Beach and the soft sand!
*Dole Plantation with my mom and the kids - Ben LOVED riding the train
*Watching the Friday night fireworks
* Hanging out with Amber (wife of one of Brent's co-workers) and her 2 kids Nathan and Kelsey
*Eating at Eggs and Things - yummy Macadamia Nut pancakes!

I'm sure I'm forgetting something but I guess that's what happens when I don't post for months! Overall, it was a fabulous trip and went really smoothly. The boys did great on both 6 hour plane trips and were troops everyday playing in the hot sun. I loved being tan after 5 years of zero color on my sad skin and can't wait for another Hawaii trip!

Exciting News!!!

2011-01-28T18:18:00.001-09:00

We are expecting baby #3! I am due July 22nd or somewhere around there. Feb. 18th is our big ultrasound and I'm counting down the days until we find out if it's a boy or girl :)
I have been such a slacker when it comes to this blog. Mostly due to the fact that this pregnancy hit me like a ton of bricks and I was pretty sick and tired. But now I'm not sick and not as tired so hopefully I can get motivated to update! We have some great pics from Hawaii and Christmas...

The Haley's Visit!

2010-09-23T14:50:00.005-08:00

Noah helping Aunt Brittany feed his cousin Lexie

My boys snuggling on the couch :)

The Cousins: Landon, Lexie, Noah and Ben

Ben waiting for a piece of his Aunt Brittany's German Chocolate cake!

Me and Noah

Noah, Ben and Landon at Grandma Debbie's house

Cousin love :)

Brittany, Caleb, Landon and Lexie came to visit at the beginning of August. Ben had such a fun time playing with his cousin Landon. They are at such a fun age right now, with Landon only being 5 months older than, they really played together well. There were some fights over toys but what else would you expect from a 3 year old and almost 3 year old?

The Boys

2010-09-23T07:56:00.005-08:00

Noah

Ben - they just love their ride on toys!

For anyone who knows Ben's Grandpa Jim - he looks EXACTLY like him here!

Sweet boy :)

Helping mom do the dishes...could they be any cuter???

Brothers :)

San Diego

2010-09-22T21:20:00.014-08:00

Noah checking out the seaweed at Coronado Beach

Me and Noah at Coronado Beach

My mom and Noah after lunch at the Coronado Hotel

My parents and the Coronado Hotel

Noah chasing the seagulls at La Jolla

My family... love them :)

The boys thoroughly enjoying shopping in La Jolla

Noah at the pool at our hotel

Love his little chubby feet :)

Noah and his 2nd cousin, Cristian, my cousin Aaron's son

Cristian, my cousin Tara, myself and Noah

He loved running naked at the hotel!

My sister and her boy :)

What do you suppose Noah is telling those ducks that is holding their attention so well???

Me, my cousin Aaron, my cousin Tara and my sis

My sweet boy

My gorgeous sister and cousin!!!

My 2 favorite women in this world :)

Bubbles!!!

My family...we all look so great!

Awww Noah don't cry....Russo loves you!!!

At the end of July Noah and I flew to San Diego for a whirlwind visit. My cousin Aaron was getting married and I didn't want to miss a chance to see everyone and for them to meet Noah. Ben stayed behind in Alaska with Brent. We had so much fun taking in the sites and Noah was such a trooper after not having normal naps and flying all night. By the wedding on our last day there he was pretty much done with anyone other than his momma so I got my fill of carting around a 23 lb kid in heels and a dress. The wedding was beautiful and as I was posting these pictures I realized I don't have a good one of my cousin Aaron and his bride Lucy! I don't know who had more fun... Russo or my mom! They were both hilarious at the wedding after a few drinks!!! I had a ton of fun dancing with my sister and cousin Tara at the wedding...I don't think I've danced that much since my sorority party days in college!

Homer

2010-08-04T20:54:00.004-08:00

Ben loved running in the water at the beach - of course it didn't occur to me to bring extra shoes so the poor guy had to wear wet ones the rest of the day!

Since Noah just started officially walking 2 days previous he loved walking around on the beach.

One of my favorites - He's getting ready to stomp in the water

My boys :)

Such a perfect day!

View of Homer from the mountain top

The Spit

A couple weekends ago we took a mini vacation to Homer. We stayed in a beautiful cabin with great views. We had such a fun time walking around the pier looking at all the boats. The highlight was going to the beach - there have been so many rainy, cloudy days but the day we went to the beach was perfect out. You can tell from the pictures that it wasn't super warm - a little windy - so we needed hats and coats. The boys were pretty good on the long drive to and from Homer. The only bad part was when Ben puked all over himself and his car seat on the way home. The good part about it was that we were literally a minute from home... poor guy!!! He hadn't ever gotten sick before so he was quite surprised.

A Little Randomness

2010-08-04T20:21:00.005-08:00

A beautiful double rainbow right out our front door

Brent and his boys

Ben, Noah, Mallory and Juliette - I love Ben's grin in this picture!

Noah just loves babies and he especially loves his little buddy Juliette!

Look how proud Noah is of himself for getting up on the train box!

What? Do I have something on my face?

Yum yum yum! A special treat...licking the brownie batter spoon!

Ben has so much hair now that I can put it in a mini mohawk :)

The boys on their vehicles

Granma Cathie Visits!

2010-07-24T15:29:00.007-08:00

At the park on one of the few sunny days during my mom's visit.

Granma hiking up the hill with Ben

Rub a dub dub two boys in the tub!

Fresh and clean and ready for bed :)

Look at those curls!

Love this picture..the only thing missing is Noah!

Talkeetna

Throwing rocks in the river

Pooped after a day of fun in Talkeetna

Noah at the park!

Noah and Granma

Shopping at Lowe's - look at those teeth!

Ben surrounded by his many loves - books!

Such a great picture of my big guy!

Noah's first time using a straw - he picked it up so quick!

At the Imaginarium on my mom's last day

My mom came to visit near the end of June. Originally she was coming out to help me because Brent was taking a work trip to Japan. His trip got canceled 2 days out from leaving but she came anyways. We had a really fun time especially since we got to spend some mother daughter time together while Brent watched the kids. My mom is always such a huge help when she comes and I look forward to every visit! I only wish we lived closer so she could see the boys more often...

At the Park

2010-07-24T15:18:00.003-08:00

He looks so happy running free!

King of the mountain...

Our sweet boy

Ben and his buddy Mallory or "Waworwy" as he calls her :)

Our little Noah is One!!!

2010-07-24T15:00:00.003-08:00

Waiting to blow out the candle on his birthday cupcake...

Oh yum yum yummy!

Ben loved his cupcake too!

Arrgh...taking after dad with the pirate face

The boys in their party hats their Aunt Brittany made for them!

Okay, yes I know it's almost the end of July and Noah is now 13.5 months old, but I am trying to catch up with the blog! So I couldn't not post pics of sweet Noah's birthday. It was a great day! We had a small celebration BBQ with close friends and some family. Noah's Aunt Brittany made him a special shirt that said "Noah 1" on it and a "Birthday Boy" bib.

Helping Dad

2010-06-08T21:23:00.004-08:00

My boys working hard in their Carhardts :)

When we dig holes in AK we go hardcore and use a backhoe...even though the hole is only for a fence post!

My Handsome Boy

2010-06-08T20:56:00.003-08:00

Look real hard and you will be able to see all 4 teeth!

So proud of himself for getting up into Ben's chair!

Noah will be ONE YEAR OLD on Thursday!!!!!
I really can't believe how FAST the year has gone. So much has changed and the time with my boys just keeps getting better. I'll be honest, the transition from 1 to 2 kids was really hard for me. Maybe because Noah was a pretty difficult baby especially compared to Ben, my laid back little guy! But since Noah has started sleeping better in the last few months it has gotten much easier! Noah takes 2 pretty solid naps a day and is typically very content to play on his own or watch his brother as long as he isn't tired or hungry. Hmmm hungry is a whole other story with Noah! He is such a food hound. I call him my little trash can. I cannot believe the amount of food he packs in on a daily basis. Geez!
He is really close to walking and took his first 4 steps this past Monday. Any day now! He has also surprisingly said a handful of words in the last week or so. His first was "out". He has also said up, hat, head, dog, woof, bib and water. It's surprising because Ben hardly said anything until almost 2! Our little Noah is a whole different ballgame! I guess that's part of the wonder that is having children... :)

Tupperware Heaven

2010-06-08T20:44:00.004-08:00

The boys love to tear my nicely organized tupperware drawer apart

and it's so hard to not let them when it buys me at least 20 minutes of peace!

Yum Yum Yum

2010-06-08T20:34:00.005-08:00

Mallory and Ben tasting my oatmeal chocolate chip cookies

Looks like they approved!!! :)

Fun in the Sun

2010-06-08T20:18:00.003-08:00

Hello World! Have a little water!!!

Swimming

Noah having his lunch outside

We've had a few pretty warm days (by Alaska standards) so we had to take advantage of it by breaking out the kiddy pool for Ben and giving Noah his lunch outside. Unfortunately for Noah, since we have no grass, he spends his outside time in the stroller or the pack and play. But he doesn't seem to mind much. Ben loved the pool even though it was pretty chilly (even after dumping 4 pots of boiling water in it), he didn't want to get out come naptime!

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

2010-06-08T15:42:00.003-08:00

Brent and Ben checking out the bison

Brent and his favorite oldest son

Me and my Ben at the Caribou

We went to the Wildlife Conservation Center on Memorial Day weekend. It was a beautiful day and I didn't want to waste it doing the same old thing at home! Well it was a good idea until we got out of the car and about 3 minutes later we were fighting off the crazy mosquito's!!! I think I got about 15 bites in a matter of minutes and the same for Brent. Noah somehow came away unbitten and Ben only got 2. Needless to say we headed back to the car pretty quickly and viewed the rest of the animals from the safety of our closed up car. The bright spot in this, though, was the park we stopped at in Girdwood on our way home. Ben loved it because they had a sand pit FILLED with all sorts of different construction vehicle toys. He was in heaven :)

Playtime!

2010-06-08T15:27:00.003-08:00

Noah riding the fire truck

Ben finger/brush painting

Workin Hard!

2010-06-08T15:03:00.004-08:00

Ben as director on the backhoe with his Grandpa Jim

Like Father Like Son :)

Planting trees with his dad

Cleaning off after all that hard work!

Brent has been doing a lot of work on our dirt "yard" lately. We have big plans for a fence, deck, raised plant beds and some grass! Ben has loved being outside helping him by shoveling or just moving rocks in his little dump truck. He got to ride on the backhoe with his grandpa a few weekends ago while Jim was moving dirt piles in our yard and smoothing things out. I think Ben rode for a little too long because he was teary when he got off and said his arms hurt, maybe from the vibration. Since then he's been content to just watch from the ground whenever there is backhoe work going on.
After he was done helping plant trees and dig in the dirt he had a bath outside in the silver tub because we thought he'd like it and also because I had literally just scrubbed our huge bathtub and didn't want to clean it again!!!

Our Trip to Colorado

2010-06-04T14:05:00.007-08:00

Noah experiencing grass for the 1st time!

The Denver Zoo - Ben loved the elephants or "elpants"

Riding the zoo train

The train was Ben favorite part!

Trying for a picture with my oldest...he's just too busy to take one!!!

Me and my boys at the zoo

Ben doing what he loves best - playing at the park!

Sweet Noah

My little guy and me

Me, my mom and Noah

Noah on the swings for the 1st time - he loved it!

Me and my ma :)

Brent and I

So happy to be playing!

Noah face!

Rocky Mountain National Park

A really cool church we saw on our way home from Estes Park

Ben making cupcakes with Auntie Rosie!

Ben's creation - super duper sprinkles!!!

We had a great trip to Colorado in April. Brent was able to come with us for the 1st 10 days, it was so nice to have Brent around for 10 whole days! Ben loved spending time with him but really missed him when he left. While Brent was in CO we went to the zoo, Estes Park, and a bunch of different parks for Ben to play at. Brent and I were also able to spend time together just the 2 of us while my mom watched the kids. Thanks mom!
After Brent left my mom took off work for a week and we went to the Children's Museum, the aquarium and attempted some shopping. Ben wasn't such a great shopper this trip but what can you expect from a 2.5 year old? My mom and I also got weightless pedicures which were fantastic!!!! I also got to meet my sister's boyfriend, John or Russo or John Russo - lol - whichever you choose to call him! He is such a great guy and was so wonderful with my kids. I am happy my sister has found such a good person who treats her like she deserves to be treated.
The last week I was in CO I was able to see some of my friends. I saw my big sis from Zeta, Christy, who is pregnant with her 2nd baby - yay!!! We took the kiddos to the park and Ben and Haley had a great time running around. I also saw my friend from Omaha, Allison. I never thought we'd see each other again but she moved to CO in January! It was so wonderful to meet her two kids and see her again. Ben and Landyn had so much fun playing trucks and Gracyn colored me a beautiful picture to take home. I also got to see my oldest (in time not age!) friend, Dawn, and her sweet girls. They came over and had some Rosie Cake cupcakes and chatted with us for awhile.
I have more pictures from CO I'm just waiting for the disc from my mom!
Colorado

A Little Update!

2010-04-05T20:26:00.008-08:00

Noah doing what he does and trying to steal Ben's stuff

Easter baskets

My sweet, serious faced boys...

Swimming with Papa...Ben loved it...he was blue but still didn't want to get out!

My little chubby bubby :)

Driving his dump truck in the snow

This is how Noah currently "plays" outside. He gets to watch Ben have all the fun...

Noah trying to eat an apple juice popsicle

Play table... Noah loves it can't you tell?

Alaska grown :)

I traced Ben and then he helped me color the picture - he was very proud of it!

Skating with Papa

The Ididarod with Mallory and Ben

There go the mushers!

Me and my boys

Brent and Ben

Yum frosting!

Fun times...

2010-02-14T14:55:00.004-09:00

Noah is such a big boy! Standing all by himself!

Both boys sitting in the toy box... Brent took them for a ride

Eatin his giraffe Sophie

Ben's favorite thing to do... Plowing with Papa

This is where Noah goes when Ben needs a break from his little brother :)

Ben playing Mr. Potato Head...notice how the 2 potatoes in front are standing...

Little reader

Noah's favorite sitting position

Going for a ride with Big Brother

Noah is really progressing fast... he's already pulling up on things and sometimes letting go which always results on landing flat on his bottom! That's why you'll see him wearing a helmet in a few pictures... cement floors are not kind to little heads! His second tooth is almost through too.
Ben has officially become a paci free kid. He only had it at nap and bed time for the last year or so but just last week we decided it was done with. It worked out pretty well because he had a cold and couldn't use it anyways. He's done very well and the only change in him that I notice is waking up earlier in the mornings.

The Boys and their Girlfriends :)

2010-01-31T15:53:00.004-09:00

Mallory (2 yrs), Juliette (7 wks), Ben (2 yrs) and Noah (7 months)

Best buddies!

Juliette was laying on a blanket so the older kiddos wanted to do it too.

Mallory and Juliette are the daughters of our good friends Cassandra and Jeff. They just had their 2nd daughter on December 4th. It works out really because now each of our boys has a suitable girlfriend :) But the kids do have a great time together!

1st Tooth!

2010-01-25T15:32:00.003-09:00

Noah's 1st tooth!

Love this face!

Expert crawler!

The boys playing in the Thomas tent

Noah is now an expert crawler! He goes everywhere and gets into everything! I really have to be diligent about what is left out or what things fall on the floor. I have had to put away some of the smaller toys or piece of toys Ben has just to make sure Noah doesn't accidentally get a hold of them. Having a crawler is a whole different story when it's the second versus the first! Noah loves to explore and has suddenly turned into a very content baby as long as he isn't hungry or tired...he loves just cruising around. He also likes to follow his brother and much to Ben's dismay Noah loves to eat his books.
Ben has started talking a ton. I am amazed at the things he has recently picked up and decided to say. I have told Brent he needs to lay off the cursing because if Ben comes up with any of those words it will be his fault not mine! Ben is still saying mostly just one word at a time but I'm sure that will be changing quickly.

7 Months Old!

2010-01-10T16:48:00.002-09:00

Noah is 7 month old today! Just so we knew that he is big stuff he decided to crawl forward today too! He has been working on crawling for about a month and was able to get around pretty well going backwards or pulling himself sideways... Ben's toys are no longer safe! He also decided to say "Da" today as well! Maybe this is why he hasn't been sleeping well at night...he has a lot going on in that little head! We are also waiting on the arrival of his first tooth. His bottom left gum is very swollen so I assume it will be rearing it's pearly white head very soon. Noah is tipping the scales at 20 lbs :)
Ben is becoming quite the character and is really improving on his speech. His newest thing is to always ask where we are even if we are in the room with him! "Da? Mom? Wah (Noah)?" and sometimes when we are at the table he yells it...it's pretty funny. He is super into reading ALL of his books upstairs right now and hates to come down for breakfast in the morning. If we have nowhere to go that day sometimes I let him sit upstairs until 10am or so! Apparently he's got enough fat stores that he doesn't need to eat breakfast right away! He currently weighs 32 lbs and is about 35 inches tall.
On another note I have added a TON of new videos!!! I looked them the other day and realized the last on on here was from when Noah was 5 weeks old...so I got my act together and downloaded some! Hope you enjoy them! One of my favorites is "Are you hiding?".

Random photos from my family's visit

2010-01-04T15:39:00.005-09:00

Decorating the Christmas cookies my neighbor Kerry sent!

Noah and his Auntie

Sledding! We went out for Ben but me and my sister ending having the most fun!!!

Yummy cardboard roll

Our family shot out on the deck :)

My sweet boy

Ben watching Polar Express with his Granpa

Granma and her boys :)

Noah's favorite toy... a free blow up ball that came with a pack of diapers!

Granpa playing with his grandsons :)

The Best Christmas EVER!

2010-01-04T14:43:00.007-09:00

Ben opening up his first present on Christmas Eve

Playing with Mr. Potato Head before church

Me and my sis making Christmas Eve dinner

My sweet boys looking all handsome :)

Santa came!

Noah is content with his new Sophie giraffe and stuffed elephant

After the present chaos

Chillin on the couch

Family pic - it's the only way Ben would cooperate!

Me and my Noahs

My dad and sis :)

Christmas Eve dinner - what a spread!

The "Granma Face" :)

A little, chubby present under the tree!

Ben opening his stocking on Christmas Morning

Opening stockings with my sister!

Matching pj bottoms!

This Christmas was sooooo wonderful! My parents and sister came out and we had such a fun time!!! We ate tons of goodies, went sledding, ice skating, played board games, watched Christmas movies and shopped. I was so happy to have my family here after not being together for 4 years at Christmas. The most fun was watching Ben open his gifts and be so excited for them!

Almost Christmas!

2009-12-13T21:15:00.004-09:00

The boys in front of the tree

Brent and I at the Coffman Christmas Party

"All I want for Christmas is my Auntie!"

We just got back from a really fun weekend at Alyeska Resort for Brent's work Christmas party. Debbie (Brent's mom) came with us to watch the kiddos. It gave me such peace of mind to know that boys were well cared for and only a few floors up from where I was. I would be fine leaving Ben overnight but Noah is still nursing and wakes up quite a bit at night. Plus he is getting used to sleeping next to his momma which is a habit I didn't want to start but am too tired at night to fight. Anyways, we took Ben swimming which he loved. I brought a new toy and some videos for him to watch in the hotel room because I was worried he would be bored...well I should have known better because he loved running back and forth through our connected rooms and checking out all the hiding spots! In the morning we all had breakfast at the cafe and Ben had 3 pieces of frech toast and fruit...love my good little eater!
My parents arrive a week from tomorrow and then my sister arrives the day after. I am so excited to see them and spend Christmas together. It's been too long since we've spent the holidays together. My dad has never meet or Noah or seen our house completed either! Now I just have to find time between all the normal day to day things to get ready for them! :)

The last week...

2009-12-06T15:38:00.005-09:00

All wrapped up after tub time

Ben loves bubble baths!

Going for a horsey ride on Papa :)

Posing with our tree

Waving "hi" to everyone!

So I have quite a few pictures that I would be putting on the blog but I'm holding back...my mom wanted a photo book for Christmas and wanted there to be a few pictures in there that she hasn't seen! So I guess I'll be posting them after Christmas!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-12-06T15:02:00.004-09:00

The Fam

We will fool ourselves into believing that Ben was smiling for this picture and not whining to get away... he's not much for photo taking lately!
Our Thanksgiving was really great. Brent was home the entire week and we all had a wonderful time together! Ben especially liked having his Papa around more than usual :) Friday was my birthday and we went to some friends houde to watch the CSU v Wyoming game. Saturday we had our Thanksgiving at Brent's parents' house and Sunday my friend, Cassandra, and I went to lunch and the Nutcracker! It was really great to get away and have some girl time.

Future hockey player!

2009-11-22T16:15:00.003-09:00

Ben loved his 1st time out on the ice!

Brent carried him a little and let him skate between his legs.

Headed out with the chair for balance...

Geared up!

Putting on his skates...they are so little and too cute!

We took Ben skating for the first time yesterday and he loved it! Brent was so happy that his little guy loved it too...I'm sure he wants a hockey player!

Noah is 5 months old!

2009-11-15T16:07:00.003-09:00

Noah at 5 months

Ben at 5 months

Noah is getting so big and changing by the day! He is about 17 lbs right now...maybe more. He is getting quite good at sitting up. He is also starting to jump in his jumperoo where before he would just sit and play with the toys on it. He is always making noises and his most current favorite noise is a really loud high pitched squeal. He gets so excited and sometimes surprised when he does it. It's pretty cute...just not when he does it in the middle of the night! Speaking of the middle of the night...he just went through some sort of phase where he was waking up a ton and crying during the night for about 2 or so weeks. I'm not sure if his little cold was bothering him or if he was going through a growth spurt. It was really hard on me because he wasn't sleeping much during the day either so I rarely got a break! But the last few nights have been better so hopefully he goes back to sleeping through the night!

Winter Wonderland!

2009-11-14T13:36:00.004-09:00

Pictures from our deck of the first "real" snow of the season!

Beautiful sunrise

We finally have snow! Pretty late in the season for us. Today it's about 3 degrees so we are well into the winter weather! In other words...Rosie brace yourself for Christmastime because it's going to be cold and dark! :) But when it's clear and the sun comes out it sure is beautiful!!!

Our Little Pink Piglet

2009-11-01T21:11:00.003-09:00

As if he doesn't get enough to eat...he's got to eat his toes!

This is Noah's new favorite position. He loves to pull his chubby legs up with both arms and chew on his feet. I usually leave his bottom half undressed after I change him for awhile just so he can chew on them! The funniest part about this picture is since I was trying to keep out his "parts" so it was blog worthy it looks like he's got someone elses legs!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T20:58:00.004-09:00

Our little monkey and porky pumpkin!

We took the boys to a concert on Halloween. It was of course for kids with the theme "Alien Antics". Ben loved the music and the lights on the stage. He sat totally enthralled on Brent's lap most of the performance. Noah was content to sit and watch until they played the Star Wars theme...the loud part at the beginning scared him so he then spent the rest of the performance nursed into a sleep coma! This is one of my favorite perks of breastfeeding!!! They had trick or treating afterwards in the building but it was crazy...I'm really glad Ben doesn't even know what candy is so we could skip that part with no objections from him. Our good friends Jeff and Cassandra came with their little girl Mallory too. So much fun!

Benjamin Boo is Two!

2009-10-28T16:49:00.003-08:00

Posing with his presents so artfully wrapped by his Aunt Rosie

Most of the kiddos at his birthday party having cake (the folding table and chairs set was a gift from Grandma Debbie)

The Thomas the Train cake that Rose decorated all by herself! And everyone thought was store bought!

We had a little party for Ben while my sister was here visiting. It was a small gathering of people but with parent and kids the house filled up quick! It was fun though. With my sister's help we made a Mexican feast - so yummy!
There will be more pictures to come - my photo editor is messed up so I have to wait until it gets fixed.

Noah is 4 months old!

2009-10-11T17:12:00.004-08:00

Noah posing nakey :)

Just for comparison...Ben at 4 months...same chair!

He just recently found his feet and loves to grab them!

They are so sweet :)

Noah is becoming quite the talker lately. He is actually pretty loud and especially likes to talk when he pulls his paci out of his mouth, sometimes at 5am! He is sleeping through the night but not taking very long naps. But Ben didn't sleep through the night at this age and didn't take long naps either so I'll take what I can get! We go to the doctor for Ben's 2yr and Noah's 4 month next week so we will have stats then!

Photoshoot Time!

2009-10-11T17:04:00.003-08:00

I took these pictures about 3 weeks ago...I guess I forgot to post them on here! Things just slip my mind... It was hard getting Ben to cooperate and Noah not to cry but there were a few cute ones :)

The Family

2009-10-11T16:09:00.004-08:00

Our most recent picture... we had to bribe Ben with food so he's got a mouthful in this picture but it was the best out of the bunch!

"Boose"

2009-10-11T15:56:00.005-08:00

New moose slippers from Granma Cathie

Excuse me, "boose" not moose :)

Science through Toys exhibit at the new museum

2009-10-11T15:29:00.004-08:00

Ben's favorite exhibit... the race car

"Fishing" with his buddy Mallory!

Me and my boys

Climbing the stairs to the kid house

We went to the new museum to check out this exhibit with our friends Cassandra and her daughter Mallory. It was really fun. We are excited to go back with Brent next time so he can play more with Ben and the toys!

Wildlife Sightings...

2009-10-11T15:09:00.003-08:00

The "pond" next to our house...

Moose checking out Brent's new shed

Bear on the side of the road

Taking pictures from the car... he actually started to walk towards the car...brave bear!

In a period of about 2 weeks we saw 12 moose total on our property. Strange since before that I'd never seen any moose at our house! One was a group of 5 with a young bull moose calling to a cow because it's mating season...apparently his rack wasn't big enough for her and she just put him off - kind of funny!

Brothers

2009-09-17T13:40:00.004-08:00

Noah and his sweet smile!

Ben LOVES to snuggle with Noah... it's so cute!

Hanging out in Big Brother's bed

Ben rocked Noah to sleep! No not really haha :)

I love this one :)

Ben is doing so great with Noah. He tries to give him his pacifier if it falls out or if he's crying. He also points out when he spits up. He loves to snuggle with him and kiss him and to "hold" him (which is pretty much me just propping him up on his lap). The only time he's a little mean to him is if I'm feeding Noah and Ben wants to read a book and I ask him to wait then he sometimes throws the book towards Noah. Otherwise he's very gentle.

Alaska Sea Life Center

2009-09-16T16:34:00.004-08:00

Ben driving the boat (a fake one of course at the Sea Life Center)

Puffins! My favorite!

Ben and Brent outside of the Sea Life Center overlooking Resurrection Bay

Noah and I when we stopped at Bird Point so Ben could run around

Our grouchy traveler...nap didn't last long enough and mom didn't have enough snacks to dole out!!!

A couple weekends ago we took a mini roadtrip down to Seward to go the Sea Life Center. The drive was about 2.5 hours. Didn't sound too long but felt long once we were in it! Ben did mostly fine just got a little whiny and antsy on the way out there. We had a fun time in Seward, ate lunch, visited the Center and went to a really great park. For Ben, being almost 2, his highlight was the park! The ride back would have been fine if Noah hadn't woke up Ben 1 hr into his nap... Makes for a super cranky toddler after a long day. So needless to say we were happy to be back home. Either no more long car trips or I'll just be more prepared next time!!!

Finger painting

2009-09-16T16:02:00.005-08:00

Future Artist :)

It's more fun when you get it on your belly...

Ben's friend, Mallory, doesn't like when her hands get dirty!

Apparently, neither does Ben...

And it doesn't taste so hot!

Ben had his first finger painting experience at Mallory's house a couple weeks ago. Of course like all activites with young children the preparation and clean up took longer than the actual finger painting, but they both had fun! Ben tried to lick it and found it really didn't taste that good!

Future Coffman Engineer

2009-09-03T22:00:00.003-08:00

Our little engineer :)

Scrub a Dub Dub

2009-09-03T21:55:00.003-08:00

It's Noah in the tub!

Playing outside

2009-09-03T21:26:00.002-08:00

Noah chillin' in the Bob in the driveway

Ben pushing his truck (one of his favorite things to do in the driveway!)

Ben and Landon filling the truck with rocks...can you tell who is who? :)

Ben, Landon and Brent on the Goldwing

Cousins :)

So I guess I've been kind of busy because it's been almost a month since I updated but it feels like I just did it yesterday! The boys are doing good. Noah is getting big - he'll be 3 months next Thursday and weighs about 15 lbs. He is a good eater and a good sleeper. He is already sleeping through the night which is so wonderful and helps me be a better mom during the day since I'm not cranky from lack of sleep. It's funny how I haven't done anything different for the night routine between Ben and Noah but Ben didn't sleep through the night until past a year old...just goes to show it doesn't really matter what you do it just depends on the kid.
Ben is doing great being a big brother. He is very sweet to Noah, always giving him kisses. I don't have to watch him like a hawk anymore around Noah either because he rarely does anything to hurt him like he did in the beginning. Ben has developed a bit of an attitude lately though and sometimes screams bloody murder when he doesn't get his way or when we don't understand what he's telling us. It's not a full out temper tantrum and the screaming only lasts a few seconds but definitely leaves you with ringing ears!

Photoshoot

2009-08-11T13:58:00.004-08:00

The boys and their matching shoes :)

Well this was my attempt at a photoshoot... pretty difficult to get everyone in the right place and staying there let alone smiling (which never happened!) These outfits are from my sister Rose and the shoes were from my mom. My SIL Brittany was able to come by and help me out though so that was great!

The Bumbo seat is back!

2009-08-09T16:28:00.004-08:00

Nearing the end of his 1st Bumbo seat experience...a little melting going on...

Noah can now join in on lunchtime minus all the food :)

This Bumbo seat thing sure is fun Mom!!!

Well I tried out the Bumbo seat with Noah today. He loved it just like I thought he would because he loves being in an upright position where he can look around. Still needs a little work on holding his head up so the session wasn't too long but we all had a good time!
Also the reason he only has half his outfit on is that when I stuck him in the seat he immediately spit up all over the front of his sleeper...so I pulled it down to get the wet off his arm and belly! Plus then he can show off his muscles! :)

Cousins

2009-08-07T08:30:00.003-08:00

Landon, Noah and Ben

Don't mind Noah's apparent freaked outness... he is fully aware that he is being held by 2 very crazy, squirmy boys! :)
Ben and Landon have been having a lot of fun together since Landon has been visiting. They are actually playing together somewhat and spend about half the time trying to take each others toys. It's so much fun seeing them interact after all the other visits of them barely taking note of the other.

Hiking Back Valley

2009-08-07T08:11:00.004-08:00

Me and my boys :)

Future rock climber...

Little Explorer

I can do it all by myself!

Sunday night we went for our first hike as a family...ever! Last summer Brent was so busy building our house that there was literally NO time for hiking. Since I had Noah at the beginning of June it took awhile for me to feel up to hiking especially since it would be with Noah in the front pack. So this hike was really fun. Ben walked most of the way out by himself then Brent carried him in the back pack on the way back. He loved finding little trails and following those. I'm hoping we are able to do a few more hikes before winter...

Please don't sell my children!!!

2009-08-04T16:18:00.003-08:00

My mom told me about a news story she heard recently about people who had taken pictures off of a lady's blog of her children and were using them to advertise her children. I don't know all the details. I'm just realizing that I don't want some random wacko looking at my blog and knowing all about us.
SO if you read this and want to be able to continue too please email me and I'll add you to the list. If you don't have my email leave a comment on one of the posts with your email and I'll add you that way! Bummed I have to lock it down but there are just too many weirdos out there...
Also, if you look at my blog because you found it through your friends sisters boyfriends mothers site - great! Just leave a comment with your email address and how you know us and I will add you :)

Piggie Indeed!

2009-07-30T22:08:00.002-08:00

I took Noah for his 2 month check up even though he was only about 6.5 weeks old (the doc is hard to get into to!). Well, he weighed 12 lbs 9 oz which puts him in the 90th percentile! That means he's gained more than 4 lbs since birth... He has also grown 2.5 inches putting him at 23 inches (75th percentile). His little noggin has grown 1.75 inches also putting him at the 75th percentile. I guess we grow them big! :) Noah checked out healthy and is good to go until 4 months old.
Ben came with me to Noah's doctor visit and was very well behaved since I was a very well prepared Momma with lots of snacks. For any of you who may not know Ben that well he lives and dies for food...snacks especially. So Ben sat in the umbrella stroller and I brought Noah in the Baby Bjorn (front pack baby carrier), yes I'm sure it was quite the scene to look at! I don't currently have a double stroller but I am beginning to think I may need one after this trip...

Smiles

2009-07-25T15:51:00.002-08:00

Noah has really started smiling...

The huge open mouth grin :)

His smile is so cute and so hard to catch on camera! These pictures don't really do it justice... He is also starting to coo more which is so sweet. We go for his 2 month checkup (a little early) on Monday...can't wait to see what my little piggie weighs!

New videos!

2009-07-19T16:49:00.001-08:00

I have finally gotten my act together and have posted new videos with Noah in them! I also noticed while checking my YouTube account that the Tummy Tub video from when Ben was little has gotten over 10,000 hits! Ben's a star! :)

Our Boys

2009-07-14T16:22:00.003-08:00

Sporting their "Big Brother / Little Brother" shirts!

The Faces of Noah...

2009-07-14T16:05:00.004-08:00

Look at my double chins!

And watch me make them disappear!

Shows over Momma!!!

"Born at Home"

2009-07-09T21:31:00.004-08:00

Sweet brothers :)

Ben joining his brother for a little tummy time!

Working on chubbing up his cheeks - Noah's started out smaller than Ben's so he's got to get going if he wants to be in the chunky cheek club!

Noah's "Born at Home with Love" onesie from our midwife Chinmayo

My midwife, Chinmayo, with Ben and Noah

What do you picture when you imagine a home birth? Do you picture frantic craziness and emergency like situations? A PLANNED homebirth is not like that at all. My homebirth was a wonderful and despite all the pain, a very peaceful experience. I was able to move around, go to any room in the house I wanted to, shower, take a bath and push in what ever position I wanted. My midwife, Chinmayo, who to me is the epitome of a homebirth midwife, is soft spoken and has a wonderful soothing accent. She is always tuned into your needs during labor and is there as much as you want her to be or not. She even gave me a foot rub with oil while I was in labor which was so soothing. When Noah was delivered both Chinmayo and the assitant midwife, Suzi, backed off and let me hold my new son and have that immediate bonding experience. They unobstructively checked him out and then checked me out. His cord stayed attached to the placenta until it stopped pulsating and then was cut by my sister :)
For my next child I will most certainly be having another homebirth as I can imagine nothing else. Ben was born in the hospital after laboring and pushing at home for 25+ hours. He was born healthy, which is the ultimate goal, but the experience was not what I had hoped for...Noah's birth felt like my redemption birth and it gave me back my confidence that I really can do this whole childbirth thing!
So thankyou to Chinmayo for helping to provide me with such a wonderful birth experience!!!

Pre Noah :)

2009-07-04T20:28:00.005-08:00

Cassandra, Mallory, Rosie and Ben at the petting zoo

Checking out the animals

Love my Auntie!

Ain't nothin but a corn dog...

Awww... me and my mom and sister :)

Whoa - who stuffed the giant ball up my shirt???

Say "bib"... "mam"!

Sporting some fancy earmuffs at the Saturday Market

Sisters

2 weeks old!

2009-06-25T15:13:00.004-08:00

Our little blondie

Waving "hi" to everyone!

Noah is now 2 weeks old! Time is flying by so fast. He had a 2 week checkup with Chinmayo and his weight is up to 8 lbs 15 oz... he is a good eater! He has been a pretty laid back baby except for sudden bursts of high pitched squeals. He doesn't like getting dressed or undressed or having his diaper changed but neither does Ben at this point so I guess that never changes! LOL!

Noah...

2009-06-25T14:56:00.006-08:00

Big yawns... it's rough being little!

Granma Cathie and No No :)

So excited to hold his little brother - in fact he squeezed his arm when we tried to take Noah away!

Sleep smile :)

Noah and his Auntie Rosie

Rosie, Cathie, myself, Ben and Noah

The lights are so bright I'm just not going to open my eyes!

Put me back in!

My sweet sweet boys

Kissing his brother :)

Noah Douglas

2009-06-12T11:26:00.003-08:00

Noah Douglas (named after his maternal grandfather, Doug) was born in the home his Papa built on June 10th at 8:50am. He weighed 8 lbs 4 oz and was 20.5 inches long. Labor was much shorter this time (about 7 hrs true labor) and I only pushed for about 30 minutes! So much better than 5 hrs!

Mama and Noah

Brent and his boys

Ben is so sweet with his little brother - always kissing him and wanting to touch his hands and face. He even helped me burp him yesterday :)

A little scratched up already from his long fingernails!

40 Weeks!

2009-06-09T14:49:00.004-08:00

40 weeks and 1 day

Well here I am one day past this monkey's due date! He apparently is thinking it's extremely cozy in there. I have been having a ton of contractions especially the last few days. I went for my checkup today with Chinmayo and she did an internal exam. I am 1-2 cm dilated, 60% effaced and baby is at 0 station. So hopefully baby will arrive in the next few days! On the up side my mom and sister are both here so we are having a lot of fun and I have been getting a lot of help! My sister has been giving me foot rubs at night which totally rock and are the best I've had! We've been to the zoo, Saturday Market, the park and watched some fun movies. I told my sister that when the baby is being delivered she could catch him if she wants...I think she's pretty excited about that.
Anyways, hopefully the next update will be to announce Baby #2!!!
Everyone pray for a safe and uncomplicated delivery and a healthy baby and momma please!!!! :)

Randomness

2009-05-24T20:14:00.004-08:00

Ben and I at the zoo with Debbie, Brittany and Landon

Grandma Debbie with her 2 grandsons :)

The boys doing a little dirt work

Playing with Brent's old Tonka truck

Auntie Brittany and Ben

38 Weeks

2009-05-24T20:01:00.004-08:00

38 Weeks with baby boy #2

38 weeks with baby boy #1

Here I am at 38 weeks...still preggo. But what did I expect after being 8 days late with Ben? Wishful thinking I suppose. I'm sure the best I can hope for with this one is that I might actually have him around my due date. So at least 2 more weeks of hanging in there! Today has been a pretty uncomfortable day. But the last few haven't actually been that bad. I go for another checkup with Chinmayo on Tuesday. The good thing is that the countdown for my mom to arrive has started (well it actually started when she left in April!). She gets here June 5th for 3 whole weeks!!! Yay!
Brent and I got to have a date night last night which was pretty fun. We went out to a steak house for dinner and then to an Aces hockey game. Funniest thing was that our Govenor Sarah Palin, her husband and 2 of her kids were sitting right in front of us (we had VIP seats curtesy of Brent's work). Pretty neat!

New Words!

2009-05-22T15:24:00.002-08:00

Ben has started saying some words! Yesterday he said help "elp" and please "theaz". I was so cute and I was really excited. For quite sometime now when we ask him to say bib before he eats he says "mam", not sure where he got that but he says it everytime so we figure it counts for now! He is also getting really good at pointing out body parts on himself and us. He has also started to be able to point out specific food while he's eating. Such a smart boy :)
Meanwhile, on the baby front I am approaching 38 weeks and feeling more like 45 weeks - LOL! I'm hanging in there though and I know that whenever little bubba does decide to come it won't be long from now... I am truely looking forward to getting my body back and being able to do stuff again as I am just so uncomfortable right now. I go for another checkup on Tuesday.

36 Weeks

2009-05-12T13:46:00.003-08:00

Whoa belly! 36 Weeks

Just when I thought I couldn't get any bigger I do! Brent thinks I'll have the baby early because in his words he "can't imagine me getting any bigger"!
I had a checkup with Chinmayo yesterday and she drew my blood again. My hemodilution has gone down further which is good. Baby's heartrate is slowing down (145 bpm) which is normal as birth gets closer. He was head down and I hope he stays that way. Earlier today I'm pretty sure he flipped himself head up but I think he is back to head down as I'm getting kicked in the ribs again! Chinmayo sent me home with all her birth supplies because I am her next mother set to give birth - Yay! It's becoming more real and before I know it he'll be here!!! She also instructed me on what to do if he comes so fast that she doesn't make it to the birth... after Ben's labor of 28 hrs and 5 hrs pushing I can't imagine this one would come that fast but I guess we'll see!

The Truck Incident...

2009-05-08T08:39:00.004-08:00

Happy as a clam in his new truck...

Trying to stand up...

Smack! Caught this picture right as he went head first into the cabinet...bad mom! It happened so fast as I was taking the picture (which was NOT suppose to be of this!) I didn't have much time to react! He didn't even cry though :)

Hanging with Papa :)

2009-05-08T08:17:00.004-08:00

Here Papa I can do it...

What's going on under there?

Just like Papa...drink in hand, feet crossed :)

Snack time

Ben loves spending time with his Papa and gets especially excited when he comes home from work. He watches out the window for him then runs to the gate when he comes in the house. It has been pretty nice outside lately so Brent takes him out a lot. Ben likes to wonder through the garage and check out all the neat stuff in there. He also likes to follow Brent around when he working outside. Little buddies :)

Pictures from Granma Cathie's visit!

2009-05-02T13:54:00.007-08:00

Brent brought home ballons from work one day and Ben was so excited!

Just give me my shoes and an open road...

Enough with the pictures Granma can you just read to me?

Takes after his Momma with his love of reading!

Ben and his Granma at playgroup

Driving the boat

Score!

Beep beep

In the life size bubble at the Imaginarium

Ben and his friend Mallory checking out the bubbles

He loved the "floating ball"

Baby chicks!

Are we going outside??? I love outside!!!

Peek a boo!

So warm and clean after my tubby!

I can do it!

The family in the snow :)

Grandma Visits :)

2009-04-13T20:04:00.006-08:00

32 Weeks

My favorite little guy :)

Best mom ever...not me - her!

Laundry basket reading

Moose taking a stroll down our driveway

Ben helping his papa fix the sink

It's been a busy week! My mom arrived April 3rd and stayed for one week. It was si wonderful to have her here. We had a lot of fun hanging out and running around like we always do when one of us visits. The best part was all the extra help especially with Ben. As I get bigger things just get more uncomfortable to do so having someone else along on errands to cart and chase after Ben was great. We found a chair for our bedroom which is super comfy. It looks like a recliner but it rocks too! Brent actually picked it up today and it's already in the bedroom. I'm pretty pumped to have a place to sit to get my socks and pants on! LOL! We also we out to lunch a few times and met my friend Cassandra and her daughter Mallory at the Imaginarium. I'm really excited for her to come back in June - she'll be staying for 3 weeks! The big question is when will baby get here??? Also, my mom has all the good pics on her camera so I'll add more once she sends me a disc!
Ben is all sorts of fun lately. His little brain is learning new things everyday and Brent and I are constantly surprised by what he understands. He doesn't say much in the way of understandable words but he sure has a lot to say! Can't wait until he really starts talking. One of his favorite things to do is walk around outside. On Saturday he and Brent walked all the way down our street and back! He was one tucked out munchkin after that but loved it. Brent said he saw one of the neighbors along the way who made a comment about him being a good walker and then added how funny it was that you spend the first 3 years of their life teaching them to walk and talk and the next 20 to sit down and shut up! So true...
On the baby front all seems to be well. I had a checkup with Chinmayo last Monday. I'm now on the 2 week schedule. I think baby has been flipping around because I feel hiccups low and sometimes high. I just hope when he finally picks a birth position it is head down!!!

30 Weeks

2009-03-30T14:26:00.004-08:00

30 weeks preggo with "Frank"

Just for fun - 30 weeks preggo with Ben

Yay 30 weeks down 10 or so to go! I really just need to get to 37 weeks so I'll be "legal" to have my homebirth :) Baby is doing good. He is moving so much lately and seems like such a night owl - uh oh! My mom is coming out Friday for a week and I'm super excited! I'm just praying that Mt. Redoubt and it's eruptions don't mess up her flight!
We had some ash fall here on Saturday. The sky got sort of dark and then the snow was all dirty and grey looking. Pretty ugly. But it's currently snowing so it has covered up the yuck.

28 Weeks

2009-03-18T17:19:00.003-08:00

28 weeks! Finally into my third and last trimester! I had a checkup with our midwife, Chinmayo, on Monday. The baby is doing great and is currently in the head down position - let's hope he stays that way! She took my blood to check hemodilution which also came back good. Hemodilution is a good indicator of how much you will or won't bleed after the birth. I have so far gained 21 pounds which is 5 pounds less than I was at about the same point with Ben. But I've still got a ways to go so we'll see! I can tell that I'm starting to run out of space though because I no longer feel the need to eat ALL day! Baby boy is super active too and frequently keeps me up at night squirming and kicking. He also likes to kick his brother (which I'm sure will continue outside the belly too!). Whenever Ben sits on my lap or what's left of it he gets a few swift kicks. Ben doesn't really seem to notice though. It's getting harder to carry Ben as I no longer have hips and any extra pressure on my belly is quite uncomfortable. But he keeps me active which is a good thing no matter how tired I am. Ben has recently given up his morning nap so by afternoon we are both quite pooped and each of us has our naptime :) On another note my mom is coming to visit in 16 days (not that I'm counting down or anything) and I'm so excited and it's not just because she does all my dishes! LOL! :)

Walking in Momma's boots

2009-03-13T18:57:00.004-08:00

Check out the intense concentration spotlighted by the tongue sticking out :)

Big shoes to fill!

Eating Breakfast

2009-03-13T18:42:00.003-08:00

So proud of myself...

Big bite!

Happy to be eating!!!

Ben is getting quite good at eating by himself. He can now dip the spoon to get something on it although it doesn't always stay on the spoon! He also has his first "official" word - Yum - who would have guessed that it would have to do with food? LOL! He's our little food monger... sometimes I feel like I can barely keep enough food in the house for him and he's only 16 months! Imagine when he's 16... Yikes!

26 Weeks

2009-03-02T10:45:00.001-09:00

Here's the belly at 26 weeks :)

99 days until baby is born...99 days til he's born...

2009-03-01T11:28:00.001-09:00

I'm out of the triple digits! Yay! Who knows if he'll really be born in 99 days - probably not but it's fun to see it on the ticker. Baby has been super active everyday but I don't feel near as much as I did with Ben. I think it has to do with the fact that the placenta is on the anterior (front) of my uterus so it absorbs a lot of the baby's movement. Ben got to feel the baby kick the other day and it made him laugh - pretty cute! I'm really curious if he is head down or butt down. It's really hard to tell. I hope he's head down becuase if he's breech and we can't get him to turn that means no home delivery and my chances of a c-section go way up - yuck! So hope and pray for a head down baby please!! :)

Ben's new chair

2009-02-25T09:49:00.003-09:00

My ever expanding belly makes for a good seat back cushion for Ben...

He likes to get his book and come lay back in my lap and read.

For some reason he really likes to look at my old copy of Everyday Food. I guess knowing how much he likes food though it does make sense! LOL!

Eating with a spoon...

2009-02-25T09:39:00.003-09:00

Yogurt is messy to eat by himself but he loves it!

I decided that if Ben could feed himself by the time #2 comes that would be great! So we have been working on eating with a spoon. I let him feed himself his cereal in the morning and his yogurt and applesauce. He hasn't quite mastered getting the spoon into the food and picking some up but he is very good at getting the spoon to and into his mouth - he's getting there!

Silly Boy!

2009-02-25T09:33:00.004-09:00

Look Momma I've got a towel on my head!

I put the towel on his head once then he kept wanting to do it!

24 Weeks

2009-02-17T15:26:00.003-09:00

The belly at 24 weeks... please excuse the blinding whiteness of my arms - it's Alaska's fault.

I'm 24 weeks and can hardly believe it! This pregnancy is flying by! Baby has been super active lately kicking all over the place and leaving me wondering if he's head up or down... He also put on a pretty good show the other night for Brent and I sticking out elbows, knees, feet, whatever which felt and looked so weird! Brent said "Gross" when he felt it which made me laugh becasue it is kind of gross and alienish but so cool!

Sick Little Guy :(

2009-02-17T11:34:00.003-09:00

Fell asleep watching Dumbo...

Resting...

Ben has been really sick this week. Cough, runny nose, fevers, not sleeping and we found out yesterday that he has an ear infection with a ruptured eardrum. Needless to say he's been pretty miserable for the last week. He's been quite the sad sack barely eating or playing and content to just snuggle with Brent or I. He's not a TV kid at all but has been laying on the pillows in the living room watching cartoons on and off. Today he actually seems to be feeling better and I hope it continues!
This is the sickest he's ever been as he's only had a couple of colds that each lasted a few days. We were pretty worried about him!

Playing in the Snow

2009-02-17T11:24:00.002-09:00

Making his way down the driveway... look how cute his little tracks are!

This white stuff is fun!

Ben got his 1st chance at playing in the snow while being able to walk around when we first got back from CO a couple weeks ago. He liked being outside but had a hard time maneuvering in his boots and snowsuit!

Colorado Friends

2009-02-12T15:33:00.005-09:00

Getting a squeeze from Miss Marla :)
My second "mom"! If my mom wasn't available for a question or anything else for that matter I called Marla!

Sorority girls and Ben is our frat boy!
Jenn, Emma, Abbie, Myself and Ben at CB & Potts

Ben and Lily (my friend Dawn's daughter) holding hands...then he so nicely bit her little sweet hand...does that mean he likes her or he's just not that into her???
Dawn is my one friend from highschool that I still talk to or really she's my friend from elementary school! We were Brownies together :)

Ben and Haley (my friend Christy's daughter)
Christy was my Big Sis in my sorority and my favorite person to hangout with. I love that we are still close and sharing the kid experience together!

I also got to see the twins I nannied for Alex and Abbi and the other little boy I nannied for Harrison who now has a sister Lily. All the kiddos and their parents, Jodi, Bob, Tari and Kevin, (who are so much fun!) got together and had a mexican feast - so yummy! I, of course, had my camera but totally forgot to take pictures! Boo! But it was still fun.
It's so wonderful to see my old friends and neighbors when I come home! I really miss them all!!!

Benjamin Boo at Granma and Granpa's House

2009-01-25T08:50:00.005-09:00

Got my blankie and my paci...it's a good morning!

What's Ben doing here??? Dancing? :)

Making funny noises in the tupperware

So cute!

My little snugglebug

Ridin in my little red wagon...

Upset about something

Big smiles

Tub in the sink at Granma and Granpa's house

Check out my new wheels!!!

Ben has been having a lot of fun at his Granma and Granpa's house. All sorts of new toys and experiences like loud dogs! He loves to point out when they come to the gate. He also likes to chase around little Starbux.
I have been having fun too. Doing a lot of shopping...mostly for Ben but a little for myself here and there!

20 Weeks

2009-01-25T08:44:00.001-09:00

Here's the belly at 20 weeks!

Alaska Boy + Colorado Sunshine + 70 Degrees = No Shirt!!!

2009-01-21T13:48:00.005-09:00

"No Mom I do NOT want to hold your hand! I will walk by myself!!!"

Chillin in the grass

Pro walker even in the squishy grass!

Today was a beautiful day here in CO. And it has been this way for the last few days too! Ben and I are both loving it... he always bangs on the front door to go outside and loves it when we do. Today was quite warm so I took his shirt off - he even had a little heat rash on his sides!

Halfway Baked!

2009-01-19T07:08:00.002-09:00

Baby #2 is half done as of today! Yay! Or if he decides to be stubborn like his brother and arrive late then he's not quite halfway...but I'm being positive and assuming he's half done! I have been feeling him kick more often and with more force. So fun! I will add a 20 week belly picture soon.
Right now Ben and I are in Colorado visiting my parents. We are having a lot of fun shopping and going for walks in the warm sunshine. It is so nice to get outside after being stuck in our house for 2 weeks in AK with the freezing cold temps. Ben is an official walker now and spends more time walking around than crawling. It's crazy how quickly it happened! It's perfect timing though because he can walk around outside here which he loves!

Ben's New Partner in Crime...

2009-01-09T14:13:00.004-09:00

It's a BOY!!!! Here's the money shot to prove it! :)

Our sweet little guy - profile shot

Little foot

Boo! Looking a little scary here but that's his face, mouth wide open! It also looks like his eyes are open but they are actually sealed shut at this point, the skin is just so thin you can see through it. I'm sure he'll be cuter when he comes out! LOL!

Our ultrasound today went really great. It was a lot longer than Ben's and we got to see a whole lot. My favorite part was seeing the baby move around and open and close his mouth. We saw the 4 chambers of the heart, his stomach, kidneys, diaphragm, palate, spine and all important parts of his brain. Everything looked perfect and healthy according to the technician. He's weighing approximately 8 oz and my original due matched up great with his current measurements.
I'm am really excited for Ben to have a brother. They will be such good friends!!! Plus I get to use all Ben's clothes again and I don't need a single thing except diapers! :) Now we just have to pick a name...but don't ask because just like Ben we won't reveal it until this one is born!
What a great birthday present for Brent to find out he is going to have another son! Double trouble!!! :)

Walking!!!

2009-01-04T13:54:00.001-09:00

Yesterday I went to take a shower and Brent was hanging out with Ben. When I got out Brent told me Ben was walking pretty good and to come see. Before this he had taken maybe about 7 steps in a row at a time. Well as you can see if you watch the videos he was cruising all over the place! Like as if he'd been walking all along! Today he hasn't walked much but I'm sure in the next few days he'll get more confidence to do it himself. So exciting! He just looks so funny to me walking on his own... :)

Updates

2009-01-03T10:54:00.003-09:00

When it's 10 below zero you get beautiful sunrises like this!

Taking a ride on Papa's shoulders

The belly at 17 weeks

Just to prove that Ben really does have some hair!

Well what can I say for the past week or so other than it's been REALLY cold!!! I'm pretty used to the cold winters now but it has been so cold lately. We are talking highs of zero or negative 5. Yuck. Ben and I haven't been outside to do anything but run from the car to what ever place we had to stop at. This morning it is negative 15. Brrrr! The most misleading part about the cold is that it's perfectly clear out and seems like it could be a nice day! But then you look down at the window and see that it's frosted over on the edges on the INSIDE and remember how cold out it is! Needless to say this has given me another reason to be super psyched for our trip to Colorado. I am planning on doing a lot of walking outside!
On another happier note Ben has started taking some steps! The past few days we have been able to get him to walk between Brent and I - yesterday he did at least 7 steps! He also started saying Mama on Christmas - Yay! Not to me particularly but at least he's saying it!
The belly is growing well - I will be 18 weeks tomorrow. I have a checkup with the midwife on Monday and then Friday is the big gender ultrasound!!! I'm very excited to find out what we are having. I only hope the baby cooperates! So stay tuned for the big news!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-30T10:32:00.004-09:00

Ben likes the throw the plastic balls that came with his new pelican toy under the buffet...

Chillin in his new chair from Granma and Granpa in CO... all he needs is a beer and the remote!

Playing at Grandma Debbie's on Christmas night

The Family

Ben and his cousin Landon

Ben's new fire truck from Auntie Rosie - he loves it!

Opening presents Christmas morning

Eating his new blocks

We set up all the presents under the tree on Christmas Eve after Ben went to bed. He was excited to see them when he came down the next morning!

It's a good thing Ben has Granma...

2008-12-23T20:02:00.003-09:00

Because he sure didn't like Santa this year!!!

Not even sitting with his cousin Landon...

Or his friend Mallory!

What you don't see is me sitting just outside of Ben's reach feeling like a bad mother as I let my child scream bloody murder just to get some Santa shots... but hey, we waited in line for like a half hour!

Who needs Santa...

2008-12-23T19:59:00.003-09:00

When I've got Granma!!!

Granma Cathie gave Ben thi shirt and he looks so cute in it! Plus it really is true... :)

Random Baby note: I have started feeling kicks! This is my favorite part of pregnancy. The kicks aren't consistent but I know from obvious past experience that they will only get stronger.

Sledding!

2008-12-23T19:55:00.002-09:00

Brent pulling Ben in his "Infant Boggen"

He loves his sled!

This past weekend we took Ben in his sled down the street. It was nice going down but windy and very cold coming back up so Brent, like a good Papa, carried him so his face wouldn't be so cold. :)

Ready for Christmas!

2008-12-14T12:49:00.004-09:00

Ben in a pair of his Christmas pj's "reading" Frosty the Snowman

Ben loves to sit and pull all his books out of the container that they are in. He is fascinated with his new Christmas ones... they are actually from last year but he was only a little squirt then and doesn't remember them! We are hopefully putting our tree up tonight or tomorrow and I know he'll just love the lights!

Baby Update: For those of you who don't know the specifics I am due June 8th. We have an ultrasound appointment January 9th (Brent's birthday!) to find out if it's a boy or girl. Perfect timing for my trip out to Colorado and some great shopping just in case it's a girl!!! But we will be happy either way... it would be really fun for Ben to have a brother so close in age too!
I have been feeling pretty good - just tired off and on, usually falling asleep on the couch around 9pm. My belly is getting pretty big and I actually had to buy maternity jeans because the one's from Ben are too big. I love the comfy waist bands on the jeans and wish all jeans were made like that! LOL! :)

1st belly picture...

2008-12-08T10:00:00.003-09:00

Brent and I went to Alyeska Resort for his work Christmas party. We stayed overnight... without Ben! It was my first time being away from him at night. I was pretty anxious when we left but I knew he was in good hands with Karmen and Debbie. Ben did great and I didn't do so bad either! The party was fun - more fun than the usual work party - it was Hawaiian themed to which Brent loved because that meant he didn't have to dress up!

14 weeks...
Yikes! They say with your second your belly grows a lot faster. I guess I really proved that theory true! I think my belly has really popped out in the last week or so because I didn't think I was that big until I saw this picture of myself.

The shirt says it all...

2008-12-03T08:13:00.002-09:00

Yup! :)