Quick Update

Okay so I'm not near as good at updating everyone on the Happenings as I was before being a mommy to a newborn and a toddler, but thought I'd update you on Evan and Aiden's Dr's appointment. They both had their well visit appointments today; Evan's 1 month (yes Evan is almost 1 mo old already!!) and Aiden's 18 month. I was a bit nervous about the appointment, not because I worried that they wern't healthy but just the task of taking a toddler and newborn to the Dr's office on my own. I could of had my mom or Nathen's mom go with me I'm sure if I asked; but I figured I needed to do it on my own just to see how it goes; I may not always have the luxury of having family close by. Anyways, it went very well; Aiden was a big helper and listened to the Dr and my instructions very well. And Evan did good as well, just needing to nurse a few times because he's hungry...newborns are never hungry before you leave the house!!! Anyways, as expected both Evan and Aiden are healthy and devloping well. Aiden is at the 89th percentile for height (34 inches), 35th percentile for weight (25 lbs 12.75 oz--I thought he gained more than 12 oz in the last 3 months, but he must just feel heavier compared to Evan), and 20th percentile for head (46.5 cm). Evan is at the 43rd percentile for height (21.25 inches), 14th percentile for weight (8 lbs 9.75 oz), and 15th percentile for head (36 cm). Evan's weight gain is a little slower than Aiden's was, he gained 3 lbs each month for the first 4 months, but the Dr said Evan's weight gain was good so I'm not worried about it. Unfortunately I don't have any new pics, Nathen and I are in the process of shopping for a new digital camera. Hopefully we'll make a purchase soon so we can get some pics of our cute little guys, and of course share them with everyone. Until next time, take care!!

Baby Evan has Arrived!!!

Evan arrived and is now a week old--its much harder to be timely with posts with a newborn and a toddler:). He was born Monday September 22 @ 9:02 pm weighing 7 lbs 5 oz, and 21 inches long. I was so thankful that he arrived 13 days early, I was beginning to be very uncomfortable--no wonder he was a lb heavier and a few inches longer than Aiden!!!! My labor and delivery story is pretty short, I had a Dr's appt at 2:30 and was having consistent contractions(but not real painful), my Dr stripped my membranes saying that in 50% of cases it brings on labor within 24-48 hours. After getting home my contractions got a bit stronger and I called Nathen saying it was the real thing. We got to the hospital at 5:30pm and was admitted at 7:30pm when they broke my water. Got into the hottub around 8:30, was again carried out by Nathen around 9 pm, and pushed for 2 minutes before Evan made his appearance. I'm so thankful that God blessed me with 2 quick labors and I was able to go with my plan of no medication and/or epidurals. Evan's first 24 hours were quite normal, but around 5 Tuesday his breathing became quite rapid and the hospital needed to observe him and administer antibiotics for possible infections. He also had quite a bit of fluid in his lungs--which they contributed to his quick delivery and him swallowing alot of fluid when I pushed him out. Evan had to stay in the nursery from Tuesday to Thursday which was really hard for me as his mommy because I wanted him in my room with me at all times; but fortuanately we could go and hold and sit with him anytime we wanted to. The diagnosis was TTN--which I can't remember what it stands for but basically its when infants have difficulty with the transition from the womb to outside the womb. Since his breathing was so rapid I was unable to nurse him until Thursday late morning, but fortuantely he remembered what to do as I nursed him Monday evening and part of Tuesday. We had his 1 week appointment this morning, and he continues to weigh 6 lbs 14 oz, what he weighed at discharge. I was a bit concerned about him not being up to his birth weight but the Dr reassured us that he was a healthy and he would be up to birth weight in a week or so. We are adjusting to having two little ones and I'm sure it will take us time but we are enjoying every minute of it. Aiden has adjusted relatively well I think for being 17 months. He gives Evan gentle touches, and appears quite concerned when Evan is upset (usually at diaper changes). Well here are a few pictures from the past week.

Evan with Nana and enjoying a gentle touch by Big Brother Aiden on our first night home from the hospital.

Evan with mommy enjoying the great outdoors.

Evan with Daddy in the hospital.

Aiden checks out his new baby brother. We were not going to have him come up immediately after delivery but since he was still awake (my mother in law was watching him) we decided to have them come up, it was very special to have both sets of parents and Aiden there with us.

Aunt Sheldi holds Evan as I catch her off guard with the camera.

Aiden is 17 months old!!

Aiden turned 17 months old Thursday. He didn't have a Dr's appointment so I don't have any updates regarding his height and weight. But he really seems to be growing into a little boy and no longer a baby everyday. In the last few weeks we've tried using Baby Signs with him more, and he has really caught on. I started when he was really young 3-5 months and kind of got out of the habit, but decided to try it again to reduce tantrums and frustration on both of our parts. So far he knows please, thank you, more, milk, eat, all done and he's even started combining to sign sentences such as more milk, and more please. The next one on our list is help. Along with signing he's also really into making animal noises, and he knows many body parts to include nose, eyes, ears, mouth, arm, feet, toes, and head. It's amazing to Nathen and I how smart our little boy is becoming. I don't mean to sound like one of those bragging mommies but we are just so proud of him and figured most of you reading would like to join us in this excitement as we continue to see our little boy grow up.

There are a few new activities Aiden enjoys as well such as helping me wash dishes, he becomes quite upset when I drain the water. He also has become quite the artist, enjoying finger paint and markers. He continues to enjoy taking walks, playing at the park, and reading his books. We were excited to find some Daddy books last week. Nathen enjoys reading those to him. Here are some pictures from a visit to the park last weekend.

Aiden climbed a rock wall at the park while Daddy spotted him. It looks as though he's saying "Dad let go, I can do it myself" Nathen did let go despite my nervousness, and he was right Aiden knew what to do, and of course Nathen was right there in case he let go.

Aiden enjoys a ride down the slide with Daddy.

Aiden loves running down this hill to the tennis courts, and is so cautious that he doesn't want to do it alone so I get my excersise too climbing up and down the hill:)

Aiden loves running around the Old Dutch Mill in the park and hiding in this doorway. Here lately he seems to enjoy climbing hills, chasing squirrels, and climbing up to the dutch mill more than any of the equipment at the park.

Some updates and pictures

This month (well I guess last month now) has been so busy that I've neglected to post very many pictures of Aiden so thought I'd do that now. Aiden's interest seem to have really changed in the last few weeks. He loves taking me on walks...I'm not kidding he practically pulls me along the sidewalk with him. Yesterday evening we ended up at Grandma and Grandpa Ecksteins'. We started out just going around the block, but he wanted to walk down Main street and smell all the flowers. Eventhough I was pretty worn out it was a great time for him, and me as well---I'm so thankful that Nathen's parents live in town because it would have been a long walk home (by that time Aiden was tired and wanted to be carried). Anyways, if we are not outside walking the streets of Wamego Aiden has developed quite the puzzle putting together skill in the last few days, and continues to love being read to.

As for pregnancy updates nothing really to update I'm still dilated to 2 cm and 50% effaced, and still trying to be taking it easy. I went to the Dr again this past Friday because of some lower back pain and mild contractions, and was agained informed that my uterus was "irritable" and the baby was healthy and happy! I wanted to tell the Dr each time that my uterus was not the only thing irritable...this is has been a much more uncomfortable pregnancy than Aiden's was, but I know its all worth it. I continue to be a bit nervous about how big this baby will be since I've already gained 30 lbs, and we can see such distinct movements. But Nathen thinks he'll be less than 7 lbs, he told me last night that I still look so small---what a wonderful husband! I'm going to try to remember that conversation in these last weeks as I feel like a blimp.

Well that is all for now here are a few pictures from last month.

Aiden got to meet his Aunt Sara (Nathen's sister) and Uncle Chad who live in Virginia the first weekend of August.

Aiden contemplates kicking the soccer ball. He's still perfecting this skill, he can do it but has not shown anyone else besides me and Daddy. I really think he's a perfectionist, he seems to not want to display his talents until he feels they are perfect and he's very confident with it. I guess there are worse traits that a toddler could have.

We take a break from soccer. Aiden climbs into our lawn chairs and seems to think he's just a little adult:)

Aiden has just started in the last few weeks or so doing this half crawl walking thing (one leg he'll walk w/ the other he'll crawl w/)when he plays with toys. Here it looks like he's telling someone why he's doing it.

34 weeks along and some updates

We are now 34 weeks along in our pregnancy and I'm looking forward to my weekly visits with the OB starting next week. I was actually at the Dr's office twice this week, once for my normal check up and once for some lab work on Friday. On Thursday night I was having a lot of pain in my lower abdomen, not contractions or cramps just constant pain that kept me up most of the night. So Friday I thought I better go in and make sure everything was okay with our little guy as I had not felt him move as much as normal (usually he's doing gymnastics in my belly). Well the lab tests showed that I had a "raging bladder infection" that was the nurse's diagnosis. They hooked me up to the fetal monitor and she said the baby was happy but my uterus was "irritable"---I was thankful that our little man was okay and somewhat relieved that there was actually something going on with my body and I wasn't just being a baby about normal pregnancy pains! My Doctor was available and went ahead and checked my uterus as the infection had caused me to contract quite a bit, and I'm dilated to 2 cm and 50% effaced. I'm excited that this pregnancy is nearing the end, but would like to make it another couple of weeks to ensure he's fully developed, and healthy. Not to mention we still need to make a few preparations for his arrival. As for non pregnancy related news. Aiden continues to be very active, and saying more words. He's become quite onery at naptime and bedtime--its usually a wrestling match to get him to lay still, but most of the time once he's asleep he'll sleep for 8-10 hours. Nathen got a new work truck and a 7.5% increase in pay in the last few weeks. We were plesantly surprised with the increase, and it comes at a perfect time as we prepare for another little guy. Until next time, take care!

Aiden is 16 months old and Talking up a storm

Aiden is 16 months today. He of course does not have a Drs appt but he is definately growing especially in height. Everyone has commented on how tall he is getting, he's definately going to be tall like Nathen. His vocabulary has also had quite the growth spurt in the last few weeks. He still babbles a lot, but now also has several recognizable words to include our favs mommy and daddy of course:) Others include hi, bye-bye, outside, up, and today when he grabbed his water cup it sounded like he said "my water". I'm sure there are more words but I can't think of any others right now. He has also gotten a few more teeth and are working on others, as he's been chewing on everything he can get his little hands on and needing his pacifier more than normal. He's also becoming much more independent in his play especially when we go to the park, he will often run off and try to join others in their play as I follow behind. He continues to enjoy water play and we will hopefully get a few more trips to the swimming pool before it closes for the season. Thats all for now

Zoo Trip and Preparation for Big Brotherhood!!

We have had quite the busy week this past week. On Wednesday Aiden and I joined our Parents as Teachers group to a field trip to the Topeka Zoo. Aiden's buddy James, and my friend Jenny rode with us, so that may the trip easier for everyone involved. Aiden absolutely loved the zoo and enjoyed spending time with Nana who met us there. We saw many cool animals, but after 2 hours we decided to go to the park for a picnic lunch eventhough we didn't get through everything. Aiden also enjoyed the train ride around the park. He had so much fun and was so excited about the days adventures that he didn't take a nap that day, but you would not have known it by his mood...he was as happy as could be until he crashed that night!!! Below are some (not many, I didn't realize how few pictures I was able to take due to Aiden moving non stop!!) pictures of our fun day at the zoo and time w/ Nana.

The past several weeks we've also been trying to prepare Aiden for his Baby Brother's arrival. My belly is getting quite large, and Baby Brother is quite active so I think Aiden understands that there is a baby in my belly. Every night before he goes to bed he gives my belly a hug, waves good night, and tonight he put his pacifier in my belly button for his Baby Brother----too cute!. Nathen and I think he's going to be a great big brother. As for other preparations we don't have a whole lot to do since we are having another boy, but we have already pulled the boxes of infant clothes out of the storage room, so now I just have to organize the boys' dresser. It doesn't seem that long ago that I was boxing up newborn clothes!!!

Well that is all for now. Enjoy the photos!

The boys take a brief break (about 15 seconds) to check out the monkey on the bench. Aiden gives his buddy James some pointers on how to get the wooden girraff off the fence...they came very close to shaking the poor thing off. I'm telling you 2 15 month old boys have the strength of 2 15 year olds!!! Aiden waits patiently with Nana for some goats to come to him at the petting zoo. Okay its not a zoo pic but I just had to share it... Aiden does pull ups with daddy now every night after his bath.

Aiden is 15 months!!

Aiden is 15 months (and 3 days to be exact!). He had his 15 month appointment this morning and was a real trooper with the two shots he had to get. He cried for a few seconds and then was fine and we went to play group where had a blast. I was pleasantly surprised to hear that Aiden is good on shots until Kindergarten so no more for 4 years!!!! Aiden has grown 2 inches in the last 3 months putting him at the 75th percentile (32 inches) and his weight is 24lbs 3oz which is 42nd percentile, as always his little head is at the 25th percentile. Overall his growth seems to have slowed some since this is the first time he's not in the 80-90th percentile for both height and weight. He is a healthy little guy though, he loves lettuce--the other night we went to McDonalds and he preferred the lettuce from my sandwich to the french fries!!! We've been enjoying the mild July weather. We went to the park twice yesterday, and unfortunately forgot the camera both times. But let me tell you Aiden loves the park especially when Daddy goes with us. Daddy can take him on big slides, and help him climb walls--something I dont feel comfortable doing.

Some updates and pictures!!!

Hello all in my last post I mentioned that our nanny, Nichole would be starting, and she's watched Aiden for about 3 weeks now. After clearning up a few things (he only needs 1 nap not 2 for 4-5 hours!!) she is doing very well with Aiden and he seems to really enjoy his time with her. Fortunately she listened to my concern about how much he was sleeping and followed my instructions of keeping him up until after lunch. The first few days she watched him he took a morning and afternoon nap for about 2 hours each so he was up close to midnight those nights...but like I said that is no longer an issue. Aiden is also now running everywhere and becoming much more independent in his play especially outside, he loves exploring our backyard and picking up sticks, leaves, whatever he can get his hands on...Nathen and I have thought about getting him more play equipment but wonder if he'll use it since he seems to have more fun exploring nature. This past weekend we spent some time at Nana and Granddad's and visited with Uncle Bill, Aunt Cammie, Uncle John, and Aunt Sheldi. Aiden had a lot of fun playing with all of his cousins, Hannah, Susanna, and Elizabeth. Check out the pictures below.

I had a Dr's appointment last week and everything went well. Although I'm becoming quite nervous of how big this little boy is going to be as I gained another 10 lbs in the last 2 months, putting my total weight gain at 19 lbs!!! With Aiden I gained 30, and I have about 11 weeks to go so I'm hopeful I'll keep my weight gain within the recommended amount of 30-35 lbs. Yes that is correct I'm in my last trimester, just as I got my energy back from being sick, I felt awesome for about 2-3 weeks and now I'm tired again entering my last trimester....oh well its all worth it in the end.

"Okay take the picture!!" I thought this was a pretty cute grumpy pic of Aiden we don't have too many of those:)

Here's a picture of my sisters and their children. It was quite a challenge to get 3 toddlers, and an infant to look at the camera, but my brother in law John did a great job capturing each moment.

I think Aiden was trying to tell Daddy something pretty funny or something...:) Nana and Granddad loving their grandbabies. Aiden tried corn on the cob for the first time and loved it so much did not want to part without it for the pciture..:)

We all enjoy some good home cookin..compliments of my mom and dad.

One proud Daddy..I just love watching Nathen with Aiden, he is such a good father, and is so proud of his little boy.

Aiden is 14 months old!!!

Aiden is 14 months as of yesterday. We had quite the busy day yesterday. We went on a PAT (Parents As Teachers)field trip to a local buffalo farm. Aiden absolutely loved it. He was not afraid at all of the big hairy animals, and got very close to them (it made me a bit nervous, but he was having fun so I just made sure he was safe). I was also pretty amazed that he did not try to eat the pellets that the owner gave to us to feed to the buffalo. He threw each one out to the buffalo. We enjoyed hanging out with all the other children and their parents as well. We were not in the car 5 minutes before Aiden fell asleep and he continued to sleep for 3 hours!! After his nap his buddy James stopped by with his mommy Jenny and they enjoyed a dip in our baby pool we just got last weekend. Aiden loves the water, but everytime we go to the public baby pool he spends most of the time peering through the fence watching all the big kids in the big pool, so having a pool in our shaded back yard seems to be more fun for him. He is continuing to gain more confidence walking, and is slowly venturing away from holding our hands, and sometimes even running without us! We found nanny to provide care for Aiden which is a relief, Aiden loved her and would not let her leave without several hugs. Her first day is tomorrow so hopefully it will go well, she seems to have similar interests as I and same philosophy regarding children so I'm confident that this will be an easy change for Aiden. Well that is about all the updates I have for now, until next time take care:)