SUNFLOWER STATE SIBLINGS

Gingerbread House Making 101

2012-01-05T00:37:00.005-06:00

Aunt Krista organized a gingerbread making activity at Gma and Gpa Oakley's a few days before Christmas. Tons of fun for everyone!

Pump It Up With Santa!

2011-12-27T14:06:00.008-06:00

Not that either one of my kids cared at all about seeing Santa...but it was a great time to go to the "jumping place" with Daddy and some other family that doesn't normally get to go at the same time as us! Last Tuesday we went to Pump it Up with The Prindle Family, Michelle and Tegan, and Uncle Trey and Aunt Monica. It was especially fun since the kids hadn't been in a while. (Momma is still out of commission for bouncing and climbing, so we haven't been able to go during the days!) The kids and adults had a great time!

Rachel's 3 Year Pics

2011-12-21T12:49:00.004-06:00

We finally got around to having Rachel's 3 year pictures taken. She did so well, I had very hard time picking 1 pose out for the package! Luckily, Sears emails all the prints. Here are 15 of the 42 the photographer took! She is sometimes a handful, but moments like this make it all worth it! (The 10th pic is the one that I picked for the package!) :)

Short Noah Update

2011-12-05T00:22:00.002-06:00

He finally has a couple more teeth! The first of the 2 came in 2 weeks ago and the second of the two came in this past Tuesday! He is very into taking things from his sister and then quickly running away from her. it can make us all crazy at times! But he also has a sweet side. He is now willing giving us kisses when we ask. (well, usually anyways!) He loves noodles, Cheetos, and has recently fallen in love with apple juice! The sweet taste keeps him begging for more. (although we have had to limit him bc it can make for quite a bit of pooping!) :) my great sleeper has also recently turns into a nightmare! The past week he has been waking up between 4-5am! As you can imagine this is a HUGE ordeal! Hopefully once he is through teething! and we get his horrible diaper rash (from all the pooping) under control, he will get back to normal! But overall during the day he's a pretty happy, loving, destructive little guy! It's true as they say, children change EVERY DAY! I'm thankful to get to experience almost every moment!

Rachel Elise Turns 3!

2011-11-15T13:58:00.003-06:00

Our "baby" girl is already 3! It seems like I was in the hospital just yesterday, but she is so much a part of our lives, it seems asthough she has been here all my life. I cannot wait to see what the futre holds for this precious life. Happy Birthday, Rachel Elise!

We had her party before her birthday, so Momma and Daddy took Rachel to the zoo by herself so she had a special afternoon all to herself. Pics of the fun afternoon are below. The party pics will be posted soon!

Halloween Festivities 2011

2011-11-08T19:20:00.009-06:00

Pumpkin Patch 2011

2011-11-01T18:18:00.000-05:00

Noah Update

2011-10-24T14:28:00.002-05:00

Our desktop computer went kaput so I still don't have Noah's 1 year pics up, but he has done so much in the past few weeks I decided I need to sit down and make a post to document all the milestones since his birthday! It's funny how things just "click" out of nowhere. Hopefully I'll get to post some pictures soon!

1.) On September 30th the big boy got his hair cut for the first time!

2.) We had been trying to get Him to stand for quite some time, but he would only do it occasionally...then out of no where on October 9th while Brett was getting ready for church, he stood him up and he didn't sit right back down. He even tried to take a step!

3.) The week after the standing began he learned to climb on the couch and slide down on his belly.

4.) The next couple weeks he continued trying to take steps. We would stand him up and he'd walk 5-6 steps and fall. the just last week he has been pulling up on things then just walking away 10-20 steps at a time!

5.) Last week he mastered going up stairs...going down is a little harder, but usually he just slides down on his belly!

6.) Then this morning he made a huge "step!" He stood up in the middle of the floor all on his own. He stood up, walked, fell down, and then continued to do it over and over again!

He's made big changes then past few weeks since his birthday a few weeks ago! He learns something new every day!

State Fair Fun!

2011-10-03T13:24:00.012-05:00

When I was a little girl I remember going to the state fair several times... As we got older, it seemed we went less and less. I remember going, but Brett never went. His first trip to the state fair was when he and i went to a concert before we even had kids! So as you might have guessed this trip was definitely Momma's idea! We went the opening day because Daddy's Saturday is actually Friday. We were there 4.5 hours and the kids loved it. Rachel walked almost the entire time and Noah relaxed in the stroller as usual. (He even snuck in a nap!) There were so many things to do and see, but 4.5 hours was the max time limit for us. Pics below of the memorable trip. Hopefully we can convince Daddy that this should be an annual event!

Happy Birthday, Noah!

2011-10-01T00:23:00.003-05:00

I cannot believe a year (and a week) has already passed. I love this little guy, but his year milestone was somewhat bittersweet. He's growing up and there is absolutely nothing I can do about it. He still isn't walking but he is definitely into everything. We were able to celebrate him on his actual birthday, last Friday. The party went well and he is thrilled to now have "boy" things to play with! He won't have a memory of that special day, but it's a day this momma will never forget. Happy Birthday, Sweet Boy!

11 Month Pics

2011-09-13T22:15:00.005-05:00

As always, I am behind on monthly pictures for Noah. They were about a week ago, so really they are 11.5 months, but at least they are in the 11 month period! Hopefully we will have 1 years in a couple weeks!

Standing

2011-09-13T12:54:00.004-05:00

Yet another thing Noah really hasn't had any interest in...BUT on Wednesday evening (9/7) we were at Ryan and Rebecca's and the little guy stood for 14 seconds all by himself! After 14 he abruptly face planted on their wood floor, but nonetheless it was a milestone! Since the 14 seconds he won't do more than just a couple but has started pushing the push toy around! Now, if he would just let go. This little guy won't be walking by his birthday, but hopefully in the next few months following! :)

Another Season Begins

2011-09-08T21:55:00.004-05:00

Uncle Josh's football season began on Tuesday. Several were in attendance for the event. Joshua's fan club looks more like a daycare, but they all love to play and cheer him on. A few pics from the season opener!

Waving

2011-09-01T23:07:00.003-05:00

Noah hasn't really ever showed much interest in waving, but I have still tried to "teach" him because I thought it was something he should have picked up by now. The efforts became a success when I left for class Monday evening. Brett was holding him and I said bye, bye Noah. He grinned huge waved his arm up and down and then he carefully watched his fingers as he pumped them up and down. Of course I was thrilled, I began waving my arm like a wild women, and congratulating him on all levels. This is when his finger pumping stopped and I got the look of " this is why I never wanted to do this before now. This women is crazy!" although he thought I was crazy I couldn't have been more thrilled that he can do it AND that it was to me the "first" actual time. I may be a crazy lady, but very proud too! (now all of you need to once again get the mental pic of me going bazerko again, bc I know you did it before!) :)

Climbing (Post for My Benefit)

2011-08-20T11:49:00.002-05:00

Last Thursday (8/11) marked the first day Noah learned to climb up the stairs. We were at GGmas where there were only 2 steps that go down into the living room. He can get up very easily, but isn't so graceful on the way down! Sad, but kinda humorous to watch! After mastering going up the stairs he has figured out how to climb onto Rachel's bed. They both climb on it and play together, but when Rachel gets down and leaves he just sits there at the foot of the bed yelling (and I do mean yelling) for Momma to come to the rescue. Not that it's really much rescue because all I do is set him on the floor, but nonetheless he is happier to be un-stuck! Hopefully I will get a pic of this soon!

Waterpillar Fun!

2011-08-08T10:58:00.005-05:00

Last Christmas one of the gifts Aunt Jess gave us was a Waterpillar sprinkler toy. Rachel has spend quite a bit of time, swimming at Gma Oakley's and just in her kiddie pool at home, so we decided to hook up the Waterpillar a few nights ago too. Noah hated it and Rachel was timid at first, but ended up loving it. (But still never got super close!) A few pics of the fun evening!

Dora Visits The Zoo!

2011-08-06T23:31:00.002-05:00

Rachel still seems to be a little Dora fanatic. There is a unique zoo less than a mile from our house. As a back to school promotion Dora visited the zoo. Rachel is actually the one who noticed the commercial on TV so we decided we just had to go! She was a bit afraid of Dora as we got closer, but eventually warmed up and got a few really good pics. The zoo is fairly expensive to get into, but it was worth every penny to see her enjoy herself so much! Gma Skiles went with us, and Gma Oakley kept Noah. Thanks so much to both of them!

10 Months!

2011-08-06T23:13:00.004-05:00

Noah's 1st birthday is really starting to creep up on me! I cannot believe he is already 10 months old. He isn't doing a whole lot more since the 9 month mark, but a few things. He has been pulling up on EVERYTHING for a while now, but he is just now starting to get brave and move from item to item. Example: pull up on couch and move to my wheel chair while still holding on. He is so careful when he does it. He lets go occasionally, but after no more than 2 seconds he gracefully sits down. Total control,but he just won't stand on his own. I guess we won't have to worry about him walking before Momma! His sister was walking by 11 months, but I definitely think he will be a year or so before...unless he picks it up really soon! For his 10 month pics I just took a few with my new camera when we were out in the yard. Even if he's lazy, we love our sweet boy!

Knee Surgery Update!

2011-08-01T18:18:00.001-05:00

(for those of you who go o church with me, this exactly the same thing that went out on the prayer chain! Just thought I'd save you some reading!). :)

I had my 6 week post-op appointment today. I came away with better news than I expected, but we still aren't out of the woods yet. Beginning today I am able to drive; however, even though I have been cleared to drive I will be on the crutches for up to 4 more weeks. I am now able to put 25% of my weight back on my right leg as I crutch this week. Next week I will hopefully do 50%, the third week 75% and then close to 100% (but still with crutches) by the 4th week. The recovery for this knee surgery has been unbelievable! Although things seem to be progressing nicely, I am still unable to take care of my kids on my own, so things are still very stressful. Please continue to pray for my recovery, as well as the stress of taking care of our kids since my mom and Monica return to work next week. (They have been helping all summer because they both work in elementary schools.) There is light at the end of my tunnel, I just have to wait patiently for the ride to end!

Kid Pics June 2011

2011-07-25T13:08:00.000-05:00

It's pretty safe to say it's nearly impossible to get a good pic of my children together! The last one looks like a prison photo!

Finger Painting Fun

2011-07-23T12:59:00.002-05:00

Aunt Jenn introduced Rachel to finger paint a couple weeks ago at Gma Oakley's. It is definitely a favorite past time at home now!! This is the first night we bought her her own set!

Rachel's Special Day

2011-07-14T16:53:00.007-05:00

Friday is Daddy's Saturday so we had Aunt Monica keep Noah and took Rachel to see Cars 2 for her "special day." She enjoyed popcorn, candy, and shared a drink with Momma. She was getting restless about half way through the movie, but overall she enjoyed the experience, as did we! They grow up so fast!

What Happened To June?

2011-07-09T00:40:00.002-05:00

It sure went fast! This is just an update to remind myself later of milestones that Noah accomplished that were a whirlwind to me! The day after we returned from our trip I caught the little guy pulling up to his feet in his crib. He now pulls up on anything and everything that has stability. He's crawling fast, can give high fives, and can gum a hot dog better than any baby I know that doesn't have ANY teeth. We thought maybe he was going to get one of the bottom ones, but we are STILL waiting! He's responding to his name very well, although just like his sister, his listening skills need some work. Everyday he pulls the Wii remote charger off the TV stand and has to get a swat on the hand and still just comes back for more! He loves the door stoppers. He crawls around the house whacking them until he gets them to come off the wall so he can play with it in his hand. He could care less about the funny noise they make. He only cares to play with it. He pulled 4 of the 6 off the wall in one day. He seems to be doing lots of things all at once, but the thing I love the most is how he wants to play with his sister. It is sooo sweet to see them roll around on the floor cracking up...BUT he tortures her at times too! Already at such a young age he knows how to push her last button. He seems so laid back at times, but he has the fiery side too! I see Brett in him every day! Similar in looks as well as personality too!

Rachel hasn't had too much to report on lately. She enjoys singing soooo much. Everything turns into a song. Just after my surgery she was able to attend a VBS at the church where Daddy grew up. It was neat to see her be so excited to go and come home sining songs I sang in VBS several years ago. This little lady may look like her Daddy, but is so much like her momma! Talking, singing,...talking, talking, talking...That is all we do! She says things that make memories for us every day! One more thing she really seems to be into lately is BALLET! She has a pair of "ballet shoes" (they are really only a mary jane style, she just calls them ballet shoes) They were getting a little snug, so we actually bought another pair today. She was super excited so, Im sure she will show them off when she gets to wear them. (and Jess, in case you're wondering...Yes, I wrote it down!) :)

Well, that's the update on the kids! I just recently posted lots of pics on Facebook, so check for them there!!

"You Have A Pretty Significant Injury"

2011-06-20T22:36:00.003-05:00

Yep, that's EXACTLY what the specialist said to me Wednesday afternoon. Now imagine my mouth dropping to the floor as the words came out of his mouth. Another story begins...and as always...play by play!

After returning home from our cruise my family physician order a MRI. The MRI itself was cake, and by this point the original pain was that had been excruciating was more mild, but obviously everything was "normal" or I wouldn't have needed the MRI! The MRI lasted about 45 minutes, and then the 3-4 business day wait last 5 days! When i got the call from the family doctors nurse. She says " Well, the good news is that there are no torn ligaments, but there looks like there might be a little ruffed up cartilage and some arthritis, so Dr. Jeff wants to go ahead and send you to a specialist for a follow up." Now that is exactly what she said..."a follow up." So, when I go to the specialist appointment the next day I assume he is going to tell me to suck it up, maybe send me to physical therapy to get it back to normal again, but NEVER did i expect him to say "You have a pretty significant injury." So...after I lifted my jaw back into place, I asked what he suggested. He said the MRI wasn't as clear as he liked since the injury was more bone related rather than ligament damaged. He did a couple other Xrays (which this Xray experience was much more pleasant than the Houston experience!)After looking at the xrays taken in his office he showed me exactly what the problem was. I then told him I really wanted to avoid surgery if at all possible. He seriously looked at me like i was the biggest loon on the planet! He said, "you can't walk normally, right?" I said, "No." He said " And you want to walk normally?" Me: "Yes." Him: "Then we better do surgery." He reassured me by saying that he wasn't just gung-ho about always doing surgery, but if it was his wife or daughter he would be telling them the same thing. This was not going to get better on it's own, and there might be more damage inside than he could see in the MRI and xrays. So once he convinced me it was absolutely necessary, we looked at options.The medical term for the injury is an OCD lesion of the femoral condyle... Basically there is wearing away and breakage of the very bottom of my femur bone and it's cartilage. He won't know the extent of damage or exactly what's wrong until he is in the surgery. The surgery won't last more than 1-1.5 hours (at the longest) but is somewhat nerve racking! The procedure is to go in and remove "debris" as well as smooth edges of ruffed up bone and cartilage...THEN depending on how bad the bone actually is itself the will do what is called a micro-fracture procedure...which he said is basically drilling up into the bone to try to get bone marrow to come down...after talking to the nurse yesterday, they hope this will not have to be done, but then again they won't know until he gets in there. BUT this was somewhat encouraging news because the doctor told me at the appointment that was just the plan. He would clean everything up as well as do the micro-fracture. (Recovery time is much longer with the micro-fracture!)The only pleasant thing about this whole deal would be if that part of the procedure isn't happen! I have hoped and prayed every day that it would just "pop" again like it has in the past and miraculously I would be able to walk normally again. But if I don't get my miracle I have been praying for the past 3 weeks, I will be put out tomorrow morning at 11am. Please pray for it all to go well, and for recovery to be speedy. Also please pray for Brett to have patience, because this has been a struggle for him already and it's only gonna get worse. And also pray for the people keeping my kids! The major load will be on Gma Oakley and Aunt Monica, but I know other aunts, Gmas and friends will help too! It's gonna be a kinda hectic few weeks, but HOPEFULLY it will all be better in the end! Thanks for all the thoughts a prayers through this crazy ride! Hopefully it will be over sooner than later!

5 Year Anniversary/Brett's Graduation Cruise

2011-06-13T13:37:00.000-05:00

Although my leg was hurt we had to go on with our plan to enjoy a 4 day cruise to Cozumel Mexico. Although there were some things we would have enjoyed more if I had not been a wheel chair, we really enjoyed ourselves! It was nice to get away just the two of us to celebrate together. Special memories were made and the things we were able to do, were a blast. Hopefully the next time we go one of us won't be a cripple!

I can't get the text to be directly under each picture to describe it, each number describes what each picture is as you go down.

1.) Finally rented a wheel chair (that cost a whopping $85 to rent RIDICULOUS!)and headed to our first dinner (6/2) in the Windstar Dining Room.

2.) The first day at sea (6/3) we spent a lot of the day just walking around the boat, checking things out. When finally figured out a way to get my wheel chair up to an open deck, there was a rain storm...but we weren't getting wet! The ship was able to maneuver and we were sailing BETWEEN 2 patches of rain. Very cool!

3.) First day at sea's evening dinner was "formal" attire. You can't really see our clothes, but Brett wore his suit and I wore a black dress I bought in Houston the few days before.

4.) Each evening there is a show with music and choreography. I especially enjoyed this one since it was Country music themed, even if it was the EXACT same show I saw the last time I was on the boat (3 years ago!)

5.) Each evening when the staff cleans your room and turns down your bed the fold up a towel animal. There was a different one every night!

6.) Brett's favorite thing on board! The 24 hour ice cream machine! He visited it SEVERAL times!

7.) A pic of Cozumel as we were getting off the ship. It was a little rainy that day as well, but made pretty pics of the sky.

8.) Brett in one of the shops looking for a pair of sunglasses. He wasn't prepared for any kind of haggling, but the shops owner knew I was and quickly came to haggle with me after I loudly told Brett the price he was asking was WAY too much! It's funny that they will do just about anything to get you to buy things in their stores!

9.) We planned to do the Mayan Ruins tour before I hurt my leg, but since I was unable to do the walking we decided to do the tour called the Scoot Coupe. It was basically a glorified go kart that traveled around the island with a few different stops. This pic is to show off Brett's helmet. Now...most of you know that our children have/had ginormous heads. What your probably didn't know is that they get it from their dad! Brett's regular motorcycle helmet is a Adult XXL. (Now you see why our kids get it from him.) But the HILARIOUS thing about this pic is that the helmet given to him on our tour was a Youth XS! Bahahaha! It looked a lot more funny in real life, but I got a huge kick out of it. Eventually I traded him!

10.) Pic of us in the scoot coupe as we pulled up to one of our stops.

11-14.) One of the stops was a restaurant. We ate and were able to walk along the beach and took lots of pics. Several beautiful views of the "resort like" restaurant and the water. Several pics were taken!

15-16 and 18.) Another place we stopped on the tour was called "The Lookout." More views of ocean waves crashing up on the rocks and neat things on the beach.

17.) We were walking along (well I was limping along!) and saw a hermit crab! I've seen these in pet stores and my sister, Krista, actually owned one, but it was super cool to see one in it's own environment. We actually saw another small one, but it wouldn't hold still long enough for a picture.

19.) After the Scoot Coupe tour we did a little shopping. It's by far a tourist city! They say the shops are only open on the days a cruise ship docks and as soon as the ship leaves, they close down! We bought a few souvenirs for the kids and ourselves, but also glanced around in a jewelry store. Shops like this we figured were set in stone on prices, so we only planned to "look." Looking in a jewelry store is NEVER a good idea, especially in a place like Cozumel. They "capture" buyers and really try to lure you in. We looked at a few tanzanite rings. Gold is outrageous right now, so anything we looked at was sterling silver, but even then things seemed high. They kept saying if you buy this ring then you get this necklace for free! (Supposedly the necklace was $500 if you just bought it outright from the store.) I wasn't in love with the ring that she showed me, but asked if there were any others similar in price (about $100) or cheaper to the one she showed us. She brought us back a couple that were more expensive...$175 and $215. Well of course the one that was $215 was the one I liked (That's how they get you!) It's was neat to look at the rings, but still in the back of my head I knew Brett was going to smack me into reality that we were absolutely not going to do this. But he seems to be okay with getting it than me! I'm trying to convince myself this isn't a good idea and he said, "But Kayla you're going to get the necklace too!" But then the lady said.. "Ummm, no. The necklace not free with this ring." Disappointed, that's when I realized it wasn't mean to be. I nicely told the lady that was probably the deal breaker, and that if I wasn't going to get the necklace too, it definitely wasn't worth $215 for a Sterling silver ring. Disappointed she said okay, and I told Brett to just hurry up and leave. (I felt a little bad, because we kinda mislead a sale for her, but I really didn't want to spend that much money anyways.) He wheeled my out of the store and down the street, and we then hear... "Wait, wait a minute. I talk to boss. Come back in!" A little annoyed we returned to the store, but actually I was excited because I didn't know you could "haggle"at a store like this! She punched a few numbers for us and asked what we wanted to do. She said she could sell us the ring I wanted for for $179. I then asked about the necklace too. She said the necklace wasn't possible. So I told Brett again it was just time to go. She freaks and then said "More money off?!" All in all she go the ring down to $130 from $215. It was still probably more than we should have spent, but it was a neat experience and the a souvenir that will last a lifetime!

20, 22-23.) In 2005 GGma and GGpa took our family on a cruise for their 50th anniversary. These pics are reenactments of silly pics taken on that trip. Most of you that were on that trip will remember! :)

21.) Chocolate Melting Cake. This was the best dessert on the ship! I had it every night at dinner (along with a few others in addition to it on some nights!)

24.) Sitting IN THE SUN on one of the decks! (Yes everyone, I actually sat in the sun on this trip!)

25.) Playing our favorite game in the study of the ship. It might be more fun on trip than when we just play at home!

Well, that's the trip in a nutshell!!! I hope you enjoy the pics!

Doesn't Everyone Start A Vacation With A Visit To The ER?!

2011-06-08T12:40:00.004-05:00

So...I had this "FABULOUS plan" to go on a stress free vacation cruise to celebrate our 5 year anniversary and Brett's graduation from WSU. Little did I know the "FABULOUS plan" would be wrecked with a trip to the emergency room the very first day of our vacation. And so the story begins...

We decided to begin our trip by spending a day with Jess and Ryan (and their kids)the day the before the ship actually left. We left on perfect schedule at 3:30pm Tuesday afternoon and made the trip to Houston in just over 9.5 hours. We ended up staying at one of Jess and Ryan's friend's houses due to AC issues at their house, but it was no further than if we were going to Jess's.(Maybe even closer!)Everyone was already in bed when we got there, so we just went straight to bed. Nice comfy bed, cool air condition, sweet dreams of our soon to be "FABULOUS planned" cruise...and then the pain started...4:30am-out of nowhere...POP!! My right knee can no long extend and I can pretty much sum it up in one word...AGONY. My knee has had popping trouble like this before, but usually it is a pop out and then right back in, so when the popping back in wasn't happening I was less than thrilled. I slept through the rest of the night (if you want to call it sleeping) with it bent up hoping that in the next few hours it would miraculously be well. But unfortunately it wasn't. We decided the ER was the fastest option and best for our insurance since we were out of state and since it was first thing in the morning. It by all means was not a "quick" option, but I guess it could have been worse. I think we were there a total of 3 hours. First the receptions needed to know what was wrong. Then we went back. A nurse came in, got the story of what happened. Then the doctor came in, had no details from the nurse so he got the entire story again. I asked him for drugs, which I didn't get until MUCH later! But they did order an x-ray just to make sure nothing was broken. About 30 minutes later the x-ray tech came to get me. She brings a wheelchair, little did I know that would where my rear would be parked (most of the time, some of the time I used crutches) for the next 5 days! In the x-ray room I laid down on the table and she says "okay, lay your legs flat." I thought she was joking. She said, "we need your legs down to get accurate pictures." I said " The whole reason I am here is because my leg won't extend." She said "Well, we need it to." So she goes for "help." She returns with a nurse that definitely has a "can do attitude." I was trying to explain politely and get everyone caught up on why I was there and it wasn't because I thought my leg was broken. IT WOULD NOT EXTEND. But for some reason they just weren't getting it. They assured me everything was going to be fine. And that they dealt with cases like this all the time. As the "can do attitude" nurse grabs my foot she instructs the x-ray tech to "gently" help me extend my leg. Are you kidding me?! At this point I'm done being "polite." Lately I have really been trying to be more patient with people I don't like or get along with, but I'm really restraining from telling this nurse she is an idiot and that my leg hurts and her face is going to if she keeps it up! :) (Also keep in mind I have been at the hospital almost 2 hours at this point, told my story several different times, still don't have any drugs, and if you know anything about my medical history...well, I'm not very nice when I'm in pain. haha...remember my labor with Rachel?! If you don't just ask Brett how that went!) So I continue saying, "I don't think this is going to work. That hurts...That hurts!...That HURTS!!!" My hands are gripped under the table I am laying on, I look down, my leg is semi-straight, but there is nothing "gentle" about what the tech is doing. She might as well have just sat on it! Remember the word that summed it up earlier? A-G-O-N-Y!!! Yep that's pretty much where I was when I yelled (and I do mean yelled) "I'm not gonna make it!" I thought they were starting to kinda understand when they nurse said "okay!" But the very next thing that came out of her mouth dashed my hopes...She said "Okay, HOLD IT!" And my thoughts came out of my mouth..."ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!" I laid there as still as I possibly could as the two of them scurry behind the wall and the machine above me begins moving around. The machine turns off and I assume we are done...WRONG..."Those weren't very clear. We're going to try again." Imagine the very same thing happing again with all the "gentle" help AGAIN. Machine moves around...stops...The both re-enter..."Those weren't very good either. Maybe we should just try it with your leg bent." HALLELUJAH! I guess those went well because after the next set with the bent leg, I got to put my pants back on and back to the exam room we went. 20 minutes later the nurse comes back in with the crutches, and brace (which didn't fit so we just got an ace bandage) and says now we're just waiting for the discharge paperwork to be completed. I then politely (of course) told him I still didn't have any drugs and yet again politely demanded I have a prescription to take with me! He said he would have the doctor write it up and it would be with the discharge paperwork. The paperwork came and they sent me on my merry way. With the assurance of medication in the near future I seriously calmed down and began to think what a good blog post this would be. :) So, we did what any normal patient does in the ER...took pictures of the glorious event! Posted below are a few pics just before we were leaving. We tried to make the best of the situation. Tune in in the next couple of days for a new post about how our "fabulous planned" trip went after the exciting ER visit!

Can He Possibly Already Be 8 Months?!

2011-05-25T14:18:00.004-05:00

I truly cannot believe how fast time flies with the 2nd child. Time with Rachel went quickly, but not nearly as quick as this! Noah was 8 months on Monday. The little squirt is finally really starting to get the hang of crawling. And when I say "crawling" its more of a combo of a crawl and a scoot. Using and moving his knees up under him, but occasionally lunges on to his belly too. But it definitely is more than the inch worm scoot his sister did! He still doesn't have any teeth, but I have started giving him baby finger foods that basically melt in his mouth. I hoped that this would improve his hand coordination. He seems to be having trouble realizing HE controls his arms and hands, but I am starting to think he is simply LAZY! The little fits have begun and I think soon he will have to start being "punished" for some of his actions. He wants things he can't have...cords, papers, Rachel's hair...and he KNOWS he isn't supposed to have them. Hmmm...2nd verse same as the first! (Rachel was just like this! Still is!) :) I can't believe the time is going so quickly, but I always look forward to what he will do next. Crazy days, but oh so fun!

The Approval Rating Of The Backyard Just Went Up!

2011-05-20T09:51:00.008-05:00

For quite some time we have wanted to get a swing set/fort outdoor play set, but they are just soooo expensive. New they cost somewhere between $500 and $2500, depending on which model you want. The kind we wanted was right in the middle...1500 smack-a-roos! Needless to say,the quite sometime kept getting longer and longer. I'd look on CL, but they were still just too much for us to pay. Even used, people were selling them for $600-$900! Nevertheless, I scouted CL every day...eventually I hit the JACKPOT! At about 10:30pm on a Friday someone posted exactly what we wanted for $350! It said to call, but I wasn't looking at the ads until almost 12:30am, so instead of calling, I just emailed and left my number saying we could for sure pick it up the next day. I got up early the next morning hoping to have a response and there was none. At this point (7:30am) I decided to text because "normal" people are up at this time of day, right? :) Well, he must have been an "abnormal" like me because I didn't get a call back until 9:45am, but at least it was a call to say I was the first person to inquire and I could come pick it up! It was quite the project to take it apart, haul it, unload, and reassemble, but soooo worth it. Rachel is in heaven and we go out almost daily. Noah obviously can't climb yet, but thoroughly enjoys his time in the swing, just as his sis did at that age. I'm sure this addition will be fun for several more years and I am so glad to have it. I don't know who's more excited...Momma or Rachel?! :)

One Of The Greatest Day Of Our Life

2011-05-14T20:46:00.006-05:00

The long awaited day has finally arrived and will soon come to a close. After Brett graduated from high school he didn't plan to go to college right away, or really ever plan to go at all. About the time we started talking about getting married he was "encouraged" to begin taking classes in the fall of 2004. He originally enrolled at WSU taking 12 hours his first semester. School was never really his "thing." He hated high school, so needless to say this was not a decision that was made happily, but he knew it really was something that needed to be done. The following semester, he transferred to Cowley County Community College where he finished a Associates Degree in December of 2006. He then transferred back to WSU to start working on the remaining 2 years of his Bachelor's degree... Unfortunately, that 2 year program ended up taking 4 1/2 more years!! There were semesters/years taken off, semesters where he only took 3-6 hours at a time due to job changes, babies, and layoffs. He struggled for quite a while after we were both laid off in early 2009 (If you remember, he received his layoff notice 2 weeks after Rachel was born, and then I received mine his last day of work) He was off work 2 months, but thankfully found a job by the time my last day rolled around. Although he had a job, he absolutely hated it. After despising his job for over a year, he then realized how important this degree might be. We jointly made the decision he was going to do anything and everything he could to get done with school. In January of 2010, the "final battle" began. He knew if he really wanted to, he could be done in May 2011. At the time it seemed so far a way and it was going to require working full time (50 hours a week) and then going to school full time as well (the last 3 semester he didn't take less then 13 hours per semester. 13 hours may not seem like a lot, but believe me...when you leave the house at 7:30am and don't get home until almost 10:30pm every weeknight except Friday, it's A LOT! The last 3 semesters were 13 hours, 16 hours and then 13 again!) He has done everything he can the past year and a half to make this long awaited day possible, and I could not be more proud of anything he has ever done. He accomplished something many never thought he would. It's almost like he accomplished the impossible and he is a better, stronger person because of it. I respect the dedication and love the fact that he didn't want to do it, but knew he had to do it for me and our 2 beautiful children. How could I ask for anyone better in my life? He truly put our family at the center of his life, and I am so excited to see him every evening, all evening instead of waiting for him to get home just to go to bed. Our lives will forever be changed in so many ways that I know we never saw 6 1/2 years ago. I am so proud of all he has accomplished and the man he has become. Congratulations Brett, on all your hard work and on your Bachelor's Degree from Wichita State University in Business Management! I love and appreciate all the hard work you have done. May this be a day you remember all your life; I know it will be remembered by me.

Orange Leaf Experience

2011-05-10T17:07:00.005-05:00

After church a couple weeks ago we met some of Momma's friends at Orange Leaf (a new frozen yogurt place in town). A lot of people I know love to go to this place, so we thought we would give it a try. Rachel loved getting to do her own and as always Daddy thoroughly enjoyed himself, but I really just thought it was "just another ice cream place." I liked the idea of selling the ice cream and toppings by weight, but as far as the environment (with young kids) it couldn't have been more stressful for me! It was so crowded, and there was hardly anywhere to sit. So, needless to say I was standing, holding Noah (who wasn't very happy that day) trying to eat my ice cream and visit with a friend I hadn't seen in about 4 months. THEN to top it all off, Noah spit up on me the most he has ever! Perhaps that explained his grumpiness! Needless to say, my experience was less than satisfactory, but it might have been due to all the "extra" going on. Maybe Daddy and I should try it alone sometime and then I can judge it from there! Hopefully my opinion will improve. Either way, I took some pictures while we were there.

Well, It's About Time!

2011-05-06T17:21:00.002-05:00

Last week Noah FINALLY got the concept of holding his own bottle. Life is way easier on Momma!

Easter Weekend 2011

2011-04-24T19:43:00.002-05:00

We started Easter 2011 off with all the "Oakley" cousins decorating eggs at Gma and Gpa Oakley's house. The next day there was an egg hunt at church, then Sunday afternoon we went to Granny and Gpa Roy's for lunch and another egg hunt. (We have gone to Granny's for Easter as long as Momma can remember!) Pics throughout the weekend are below. We also celebrated Gma Oakley and Uncle Ryan's birthdays on Friday, but I don't have pics of that, as well as a new current cousin pic! Check out other cousin's blogs to hopefully see some of those!

6 Months Stats (An Entire Month Late!)

2011-04-24T01:24:00.002-05:00

I took Noah to the doctor for his 6 month wellness check and shots and completely forgot to post his stats! So for my own benefit later on...We weighed him naked as well as clothed to see the difference of he and Tegan. (Tegan was weighed with clothes on so I wanted to see the difference exactly, but then also get the gain since the past 2 months accurately as well as for percentiles.) But either way, we finally outweigh Tegan! Fully diapered and clothed Noah weighed 17lbs 10oz, and naked, he officailly weighed 16lbs 14oz. His weight was only in the 50th percentile and measuring 27 iinches, his lenghth was in the 75th. The little guy might just turn out to be just like his daddy! (which wouldn't be too bad, if I do say so myself!) :)

Trying to Move

2011-04-21T19:50:00.003-05:00

Noah is starting to push up with his legs some during tummy time, but unfortunately he usually only goes backwards. He's lunged forward a couple times, but he just doesn't have it down yet. He's just kinda a lazy guy, but so cute!

Momma's New Addiction!

2011-04-12T12:01:00.004-05:00

I got a bread machine about a week ago and absolutely love it! The first couple loaves I just baked in the machine, but learned that it tastes much better when you take the extra 5-10 minutes to put it in the oven instead. Not only do I love the machine, Brett loves it too! (He and Rachel ate 1 piece shy of an entire loaf yesterday!) Most of you know the guy lives on 2 things...bread and ice cream, so needless to say he is getting pretty close to "heaven on earth!" (Don't count on me making homemade ice cream though! Yuck!) It has been a fun process but it for sure takes practice, as you can see in the pics of my loaves below! I have made whole wheat, regular white, and the latest is a honey white french bread. Its fun easy, productive and makes the house smell fabulous! It's not very often that I get to do things that are fun as well as feeling productive! I hope it continues to be fun all the time, and I'm sure Brett does too! :)

I Need Them, I Adore Them

2011-04-04T22:23:00.000-05:00

Need I say more?!

When You Can't Move Yet...

2011-04-01T22:17:00.001-05:00

...and she's taken all your toys away...just eat her foot!

Bath Time Buddies

2011-03-30T13:58:00.000-05:00

Sittin' Up!

2011-03-27T13:34:00.004-05:00

Thursday, March 24th marks the milestone of Noah being able to sit up on his own. He balances pretty well and then gradually leans forward to his toes. Only lasts a couple minutes at a time, but he can do it!

Most Formal Event Thus Far

2011-03-22T15:01:00.004-05:00

This past Saturday was Aunt Monica's wedding,and if I recall correctly this was the most formal event that Rachel and Noah have ever been to. (outside of my belly!) Momma and Daddy both had a part in the wedding and since we don't quite trust Rachel to baby sit her little brother yet, we asked Aunt Jenn and Miss Stephanie to help out with the kids. They kept them for all of the wedding ceremony and most of the reception. (A HUGE thank you to both of them!!!) I am glad Rachel was able to be there and experiece a wedding and see Monica in her "bootiful pwincess dwess!" She loves her Aunt Monica very much, so it was special for me for her to get to be there. Noah on the other hand, could have cared less. He slept through the family pics and some of the reception. But better sleeping than screaming I guess!

Overall it was a very good day, and we wish Aunt Monica and UNCLE Trey the very best in their happily ever after. :)

A Spoon For Her Yogurt

2011-03-15T19:10:00.000-05:00

Sunday Rachel wanted a yogurt so as usual I told her to get a spoon and get in her chair. Normally she goes over to the drawer gets a "child size" spoon gets in her chair and eats. That afternoon she said to me... "I want a big spoon." Thinking that she wanted to use a regular spoon instead of the "child size" I said "Okay." When I turned around to pick her up and put her in her chair I see she had gotten a BIG spoon! Not only was I surprised which spoon she had, but even more surprised to see that she had not gotten it out of the drawer, but out of the dirty sink! Oh brother! She is in her own little world most of the time and drives me CRAZY every day, but these are the memories I live for!

5 Month Pics

2011-03-14T15:31:00.003-05:00

Park Day With Daddy!

2011-03-14T14:50:00.005-05:00

It was a very nice afternoon on Saturday so our family of 4 headed to the park! Rachel was super excited to go with Daddy because he is normally at work whenever we go! We were only there about an hour, but she had a blast and Noah got to swing for the first time. I also think Daddy had more fun then he was leading on! Look at the pics and then you can decide! :)

Everyone Loves A Good Sonic Drink

2011-03-12T19:00:00.002-06:00

Even if you are only 5 1/2 months old! :)

He's Doing So Much!

2011-03-11T11:31:00.004-06:00

At the end of 4 months Noah rolled from his belly to his back for the first time, since then he has really been on a "roll!" During his 5 month he has learned to roll from his back to his belly, turn himself in a circle on the floor, and now is scooting backwards! He plays on the floor rolling from tummy to back as he pleases! So much fun to watch as well as listen to the giggles and squeals. He has also discovered his toes! Such a neat toy too! Can't wait for the little guy to be on the move going forward. I don't think it will be long! I don't have any videos of rolling, but the playing with toes pics are below!

New Toothbrush!

2011-03-02T13:49:00.003-06:00

Never realized how hard it was to brush a toddler's teeth. So instead of having a battle ever day, it has now become a "treat"! How, you ask?... a DORA spincrest toothbrush! Way easier to brush her teeth and it is fun for her too! :)

4 Month Pics...A Month Late!

2011-02-23T09:31:00.000-06:00

Chiropractor Sucess!

2011-02-18T09:43:00.004-06:00

As you can see in the pics below, we are having much better control of the head and neck. I guess it could be coincidence, but I really think it has a lot to do with the visits to the chiropractor. I'm taking him about every 2 weeks, and I get adjusted as well. I'm so glad this is working for him. He is loving tummy time now!

Already Palming The Ball!

2011-02-16T10:38:00.002-06:00

Daddy's just sure he's gonna play at KU someday! :)

Books of the Bible Video Trouble

2011-02-14T12:59:00.003-06:00

So I can't get the video to upload on Blogger, but I just uploaded it to Facebook this afternoon. Check it out there! It has now been exactly a week and she does Matthew through Epehesians! We are very pleased!

Books Of The Bible

2011-02-10T15:41:00.002-06:00

Rachel loves to sing! Among her favorites are, Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, The Itsy Bitsy Spider, The Wheels On The Bus, ABC's, and Jesus Loves Me...not only does she like to sing, she gets most of the words right too! (not all of course, but we definitely know what she is singing!) So, while we were in the car with Gma Oakley the other day we decided to start working on the books of the Bible. The video below shows what we have accomplished in the past 3 days! :)

Rachel's New Do!!

2011-02-08T16:59:00.002-06:00

Rachel got a haircut for the 2nd time today! Not just a trim, a whole new do! Momma is very excited to not have to mess with a messy "mullet" anymore! And I do mean messy! (as you can see in the "before" picture!) The cut makes her look more like a little girl and everyone might think I'm still crazy, but she looks more like Cousin Kinley too!

Milestones

2011-01-29T22:21:00.002-06:00

Just a note for Momma's sake...On January 11th, Noah had his first experience with rice cereal. He wasn't sure what to think, but I guess he liked it since he continues to gobble it up! He sure is getting big! Not so much fat as long and "built" (yes daddy says he takes after him...yeah right!) :) His 4th month check up and shots will hopefully be this coming week. (I've been putting it off until he finishes a round of antibiotics due to a sinus infection.) And I think this might be the month that he passes his 1 year old cousin, Tegan's weight! We shall see! On another note...for most of his short life he hasn't been able to hold up his head. It would just kinda hang and tilt to the right side. After a light adjustment by a chiropractor he doing much better. He even rolled over for the first time yesterday! (Jan 28th) I think helping his neck has over all helped him be more content, as well has be able to due more physically. It is still undetermined if I need to continue see the chiropractor on a regular basis. Another thing that we will just have to see as we go!

Dora Fanatic!

2011-01-25T17:23:00.004-06:00

I figured as Rachel was introduced to new characters and toys she would like something else better, but boy was I wrong! She always comes back to Dora as her favorite. So as Rachel's "reward" for being officially potty trained (knock on wood!) she got a Dora toddler bed. We have been really working on potty training since Noah was born, it was an up and down process, but we finally have the hang of it. She let's us know she needs to go during the day and wakes up dry every morning! I am ecstatic to be done "training" an she is even more thrilled to have her new bed!

Overdue Pics

2011-01-20T20:22:00.004-06:00

We had Rachel and Noah's pics taken at the same time a few weeks ago. These are his 3 months and her 2 years! Time is flying by!

I Don't Think We Are Quite Ready For The Bumbo...

2011-01-11T15:12:00.003-06:00

His small neck just still isn't strong enough to support that huge head! Just like his sister's!

Do You Think She's A Little Young?!

2011-01-05T14:14:00.000-06:00

Rachel is always very into what's going on when I pump. As you can see in the pic she is an EXPERT! :)

Zoo In The Winter?!!

2011-01-02T13:48:00.003-06:00

That's right! On New Year's Eve's Eve we went to the zoo because it was warm! When we got home at about 3:30pm the thermometer said 68. I couldn't believe it! It was nice to get 1 more trip to the zoo in 2010!

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-28T15:18:00.003-06:00

We had a very merry Christmas this year! (AS ALWAYS!) We were able to be with all of our family at various times throughout the week. The 21st we were at Gma and Gpa Oakley's, the 23rd we were with Gma and Gpa Skiles, the 24th we celebrated GGma and Tegan's birthdays, and on the 25th we were at GGma and GGpa's in the morning then in the evening we went to Great Granny and Gpa Roy's! What a busy, but very blessed week. Several days of great fun and time spent with family and friends. We hope you all had as merry of a Christmas as we did! Pics below are of Rachel and Noah opening their gifts from Santa and us on Christmas morning. :)

Noah's 2 Month Pics

2010-12-17T21:01:00.002-06:00

Hanging Out!

2010-12-07T17:32:00.003-06:00

Smiles are becoming more frequent, and I could not resist getting a shot of this "pose!" And just for the record I think he looks like me in this one. Anyone else see it, or am I just hoping?! :)

Dancing Machine!

2010-12-04T13:52:00.000-06:00

Colemans Meet Noah

2010-12-03T19:34:00.000-06:00

Noah was almost 2 months old before the Coleman crew got to meet him for the first time. (Momma went into labor just 2 days after they left to go home on their last trip up!) Nevertheless, it was a great time! Pics of Aunt Jess, Uncle Ryan, Kinley and Jaxon with the little guy!

Family Shots

2010-11-27T18:08:00.004-06:00

Jessica and Krista took some pics of our family of 4 when we took the big annual family pic. As usual they turned out great. Memories in the making!

First Smiles

2010-11-21T14:21:00.003-06:00

Noah really isn't much for smiling. However, he occasionally lets one slip! This is one of his very first! (outside of the ones caused by gas! Nov. 5th) :)

Dora Party!

2010-11-21T13:35:00.003-06:00

The party was delayed by a week since the ENTIRE family was sick last week, but Rachel didn't seem to mind!

There was no question as to what the theme for Rachel's party was going to be this year! Dora is the IN thing at our house right now, so it made planning for Momma very easy! Rachel was thrilled! Every decoration I got out she got more and more excited...then there was the cake! Aunt Jenn made the cakes for the party! As usual she did an amazing job! I took them out of the box and she started yelling.. "Dora, Diego, Dora, Diego, Diego, Dora!" Then she simply said "fork!" (Hilarious!)
She had a blast eating the cake, opening gifts, and playing with her cousins. Thank you to everyone who made the party special for our little Dora fanatic!

More pictures will hopefully be up on FB later. Aunt Krista took several more, I just haven't gotten them from her yet! (Thanks Aunt Krista!)

Happy Birthday Rachel!

2010-11-13T23:59:00.000-06:00

It's hard to believe that 2 years have already past! We have already made so many memories with this little girl, and I can't wait for more! Happy Birthday, Rachel Elise!

My Daddy Sleeps in A Big Girl Bed...Does Yours?!

2010-11-07T17:26:00.002-06:00

This morning Rachel woke up too early, but wasn't going back to bed without a fight! Daddy finally convinced her to go back to bed if he stayed in there with her. I saw the 2 of them in the TODDLER bed on the video monitor when I woke up and couldn't resist the urge to take a pic! Funny, but so sweet at the same time. She loves her Daddy!

Another Trip To The Zoo!

2010-11-05T15:19:00.003-05:00

We might just be running out of warm days to go to the zoo this year! We all (Jenn, Krista,Michelle, and all the Kansas Cousins) went yesterday afternoon in a "brisk" 58 degrees. Much cooler then the last time we went! Nevertheless, the kids had a blast. I found myself missing Jess and her kids this trip since we all were able to go,but I know we will see them in a couple weeks at Thanksgiving. Maybe it will still be warm enough to go then too!

Noah's First Time Overnight Gma Oakley!

2010-10-30T16:23:00.000-05:00

2 Weekends ago Noah and Rachel stayed the night at Gma and Gpa Oakley's house. Although Rachel has done this many times, this was Noah's first overnight with out Momma! Things went well I guess! A few pics below!

Pumpkin Patch 2010

2010-10-28T09:55:00.005-05:00

Saturday evening we took Rachel and Noah to the Pumpkin Patch with Daddy's family. Gma Skiles, Aunt Monica, and soon to be UNCLE Trey! (Rachel's 2nd time and Noah's 1st!) Noah slept pretty much the entire time, but Rachel had more fun then I ever imagined she would! There was lots to do as the pics below show! We took a wagon ride out to the field to pick our own pumpkin, went down slides, stuck our heads through the holes to look like animals (my personal favorite of Daddy!), Daddy did the zip line, ate pumpkin shaped cookies and took some family photos. This was the best Pumpkin Patch I have ever been to! We will hopefully get a chance to do it next year too!

One Month Old!

2010-10-23T13:31:00.004-05:00

I can't believe it's already been a month since my 2nd blessing entered this world. Yet again I have been blessed with baby who SLEEPS THROUGH THE NIGHT! Noah's biggest accomplishment has been learning to sleep through the night and after sleeping 10 hours last night, I think he has it down! ( This pas week he hasn't slept less then 7!) He's a great eater, and content most of the time. He likes to be held, but is also okay with sitting on the Boppy on the floor or in his swing! I couldn't be more happy with this little guy! I find myself wondering again (just as I did with Rachel) how did I live my life without this?! Time is flying, but I love him more then words could ever descibe!

Below is a pic of him this morning before he woke up from his 10 hours of slumber!

Trip To The Park

2010-10-18T12:43:00.004-05:00

Two Saturdays ago we went to the park with Gma and Gpa,some Aunts, and cousins. (Much easier then typing everyone's names!) It was actually Noah's second trip to the park, but the first time we went I didn't have my camera! As always it was a blast!

Noah's First Photo Shoot

2010-10-03T14:15:00.006-05:00

When Noah was 5 days old I had Aunt Krista take some pics. (Had Rachel's pics taken at 5 days old) Enjoy his first photo shoot! (Thanks Aunt Krista!)

She's A Big Girl Now!!

2010-10-02T12:51:00.002-05:00

The Princess decided last Saturday (9/25) she wanted to now be a BIG GIRL! 2 BIG changes happened for Rachel last weekend. She decided she now wants to go potty in the Big Girl Potty and she is now in her toddler bed instead of her crib! If you remember just a few weeks ago we tried the potty thing and she was the most stubborn, defiant child on the planet. So, we were thoroughly surprised when she was asking us to take her potty and then actually going when we came home from the hospital!!! The bed switch was a little more complicated. She decided she was just going to jump out of her crib no matter what so we made the decision to be safer and convert her bed. Both seem to be going fairly well. Set backs here and there, but it will all be worth it! She's a BIG GIRL NOW!!!

Finally, A Few Pics!!!

2010-09-25T10:50:00.004-05:00

I have finally had a little more time to post some pics on the blog! It is much easier for me to get them on Facebook, but here are some now! More to post later sometime! Things are going great!!

He's Here!!!

2010-09-23T02:58:00.002-05:00

Noah Darrell Skiles arrived at 12:59am on Thursday September 23rd, 2010! At 3 weeks and 2 days early the little monster weighed in at 8lbs 12oz and was 20 3/4in. Can you imagine if he would have gone to his due date?! We were very surprised with his size! Momma and Noah are both doing fine and Daddy couldn't be happier! We are excited for Rachel to meet him in the morning and hopefully post pics soon!

12:00 am Update

2010-09-22T23:51:00.004-05:00

They gave Kayla some oxygen and they were having a little trouble keeping Noah's heart rate on the monitor (it was picking up Kayla's hearbeat instead). They are putting a head monitor on Noah to accurate monitor his heart rate. She is dilated to 8 and is 100% effaced.

Current funny comments:
"I didn't get all my pillows back!" (in an irritated voice . . . note, she has about 10 pillows).

"Does my eye look droopy to anyone?"

"WOW! Is it really already 11:00? That's why I'm tired" (that one is a little older).

11:30 pm Update

2010-09-22T23:24:00.002-05:00

Kayla is dilated to 7 1/2, 100% effaced, -1 station.

Current funny comments:

"This is fabulous; we should have done this hours ago" (after receiving the epidural at 10:15pm).

"Sorry I grabbed your clothes earlier." (to the nurse after having a contraction and grabbing her)

10:50 pm Update

2010-09-22T22:51:00.003-05:00

Kayla is dilated to 6, 100% effaced, -1 station.

Current funny comments:

"This is weird. It still feels like it isn't real."

"It's like routine, since I've done this before."

9:45 pm Update

2010-09-22T21:52:00.002-05:00

Kayla is dilated to 5, 90% effaced, -2 station.

Current funny comment:

"These are getting really hard and I'm not even getting credit for them" - when the monitor was not showing her contractions.

9:00pm Update

2010-09-22T20:56:00.001-05:00

Kayla is now dilated to 5, 80% effaced, -2 station.

The End is Near

2010-09-22T19:23:00.001-05:00

I went to get a final hair color to look good before Noah's birth. Jane had the weave done, she was drying my hair, and suddenly I felt a warm sensation. I told Jane, "I either peed my pants, or my water just broke". After I went to the bathroom, I realized it was probably leakage of amniotic fluid. I got in the car and called Mom in a panic. I wasn't sure because I had never experienced it like this before. When I got out of the car at home, I was sure it was the real deal. Brett and I rushed around and got stuff in the car. While I was tanding in the garage, loading the car, we had another confirmation that this was for real (my pants were now soaked). Brett ran in the house to get me a towel and we headed to the hospital. When we got to the hospital (at about 5:00pm), Becky went inside to get the wheelchair so I started to get out of the car. I got out and looked at mom and there was a major gush that got my feet and flip-flops wet. I was admitted and put directly into a room after they confirmed that my water had broken. When they checked me, I was dilated to 4 and 80% effaced. At 7, they checked me again and there was no progress. Therefore, they started Pitocin at 7:18 pm.

Stay tuned for further updates on progression!

Maternity/Family Pics 2010

2010-09-18T22:35:00.007-05:00

My sister Jessica recently started a new photography business called Frugal Fotography. She was able to take our maternity/family pics today. I can honestly say I couldn't be more pleased! They are great and just what I expected! If anyone is interested in booking a session with her she has very reasonable rates and will be back in town around Thanksgiving and Christmas. Look at some of her other work at http://frugalfotography.blogspot.com/
Thanks so much Jess for you work! We love it!

36 Weeks and Counting!

2010-09-17T20:38:00.003-05:00

Another Dr. appt along with our last sonogram was today! According to the sono we may have a "normal" sized baby this time!! :) At the 37 week sono of Rachel she was measuring 9lbs 7oz (fortunately at 38 weeks she was only 8lbs 14oz) but today Noah at 36 weeks was only measuring 6lbs 9oz!! Quite different from what I was expecting but marvelous! The sono tech said the sono estimate could be up 1/2 pound to a whole pound off (either way) and we still have 3 weeks to go until the induction on the 8th of October. So he could grow quite a bit more in the next 3 weeks...HOWEVER... I AM ALREADY DILATED TO 3!!! I guess it's possible I stay at a 3 for the next 3 weeks so I'm trying to not get my hopes up too much for an early delivery, but the progression of almost 2 centimeters in the past week can't keep me from hoping! The doctor was surprised with the quick progression. She even told me she didn't think I'd make it much longer, but we shall see! He may really be here before we know it!!! Enjoy the final sono pics of our little guy. The next pics you see he will be out of my belly!!

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Looking down at his face. You can really see his chubby cheeks, nose and lips!

He is still a BOY!

Noah Update

2010-09-13T11:14:00.002-05:00

I went to the doctor on Friday and as usual everything was great! I was measuring a little over a week big and was dilated to 1-1.5cm. And just like the past few visits his heart rate was 145bpm. His heart rate seems to be very consistent so maybe he will be laid back like his daddy instead of high strung like his momma and big sister! :) I am now scheduling weekly visits with Dr. Cox so the time will really start flying now! Sono is supposed to be at the next appt to measure for his size. Lets hope he isn't measuring giant size like his sister was at this time! :) I talked with the doctor about an induction plan and she said she would induce me at 39 weeks (Oct.8th) if he doesn't come before then! Daddy is very excited because that means he will probably be here on the 9th. The 9th is a special day to him bc it is his late grandmother's birthday. He just thinks it's "neat." Although it would be kinda cool, just like any other overly fat pregnant lady I hope he comes on his own EARLY. But I have a feeling he is going to stay nestled in there as long as possible! I guess we shall see. Even if he doesn't come earlier then 39 weeks, I think I will manage 3 1/2 more weeks! The end is near and it will be so worth it!

Let The Season Begin!

2010-09-03T13:29:00.003-05:00

Football season has begun! Last night we went to Uncle Josh's first football game! It was fun for Momma to watch something other than baseball (Josh's favorite sport to play). Brennan, Rachel, and Branton seemed to have a blast along with Momma, Aunt Jenn, Uncle Cole and of course Gma and Gpa Oakley! We will probably be attending more throughout the season!

Zoo Day With Daddy!!!

2010-08-31T13:57:00.004-05:00

Well, really it was an evening! A couple weeks ago there were a couple days of "cool weather." It was about 77 degrees during the day so this evening was perfect for a trip to the zoo! Daddy doesn't' normally get to make the trip with us, but the zoo is open until 8pm on Tuesday! It worked great! We enjoyed the evening, especially since none of us had been in a while due to the heat! :)

Checking out the flamingos!

Momma and Daddy!

Petting a small goat

Pretty good pic of the penguin

Rachel with the"ja-raff"

Big Helper!

I guess she was surprised to see me with the camera!

Beaver Lake 2010!!

2010-08-25T14:58:00.000-05:00

A few weeks we went to Beaver Lake! Daddy wasn't able to go last year, so when he had the chance to go this year we did!!! Although it was hot and Momma was 30 weeks preggo, it is always good to get away!!

She is quite the little traveler!

Morning walk with Daddy

"Just a head" This is one of the funniest things I have ever seen Justin do!

Momma and Daddy

Swimming!

Happy With Gma Oakley on the boat!

Our fearless leader, Gpa Oakley!

Gma Oakley, Rachel, Aunt Krista, GGma, Kate, Aunt Jenn, and Branton

Jumping off the rocks at Big Cliffty

Tegan in her towel!

Feeding the fish at Lost Bridge Marina

Best picture I have of Daddy!

Throwing rocks

Big Kids eating supper

The Ice Cream!!

Rachel settled for a smaller size

Gma and Rachel

Two very hot little girls taking a break from packing up camp

Headed Home!

32.5 Weeks

2010-08-24T15:11:00.002-05:00

Still trucking along! The 3rd trimester is getting a bit harder, but overall things are still going great! Had an appt yesterday and Noah was measuring a week big again and his heartbeat was 145bpm. Dr. Cox still assumes he's going to be somewhat big (8.5-9lbs) but I've done it before (8lbs 14 oz-Rachel) so she isn't worried! Sono will be at 36 weeks and I will continue to have bi-weekly appts until then. Time is closing in, but it can't come soon enough! Pic was taken at exactly 32 weeks!

Surprise BUNCO Baby Shower!

2010-08-20T23:47:00.003-05:00

I play BUNCO with a group of girls once a month on Friday nights. I drove to BUNCO this evening and was surprised with a Baby Shower for Noah and I! It was so much fun and I didn't expect it at all! It was a blast and I was on cloud 9 the entire way home! Friends are wonderful!!

I Can't Imagine...

2010-08-19T11:46:00.002-05:00

I just can't imagine my life without these 2. And to think, in a few weeks we were going to add another beautiful being to the mix. I love them all so much.

I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream For Ice Cream!

2010-08-15T21:21:00.003-05:00

Sunday night Daddy and Gpa Oakley were working on some sprinkler heads in the front yard and heard the ice cream truck music! Gpa flagged down the truck so Rachel could experience another first! She wasn't quite sure why a man in a truck was selling ice cream, but she sure enjoyed it! Momma remembers getting ice cream from a truck years ago, yet it seems just like yesterday! Oh memories that last for a lifetime!!

Looking...

Deciding...this is serious business!

Waving bye to the truck

Pic with Momma!

Thouroughly enjoying!

28.5 Weeks...Well, Really 29.5 Now!

2010-08-02T19:40:00.003-05:00

We had a doctor appointment last week, and of course everything is still going well! Noah's heartbeat was 145 and he seemed to be measuring back to normal size. (Last month he was 1.5 weeks big) Dr.Cox says we will do a sono in a few weeks to get a more accurate approximate size, but until then I will be having an appointment every 2 weeks! Times gonna start flying now!!! Picture below was take at 28.5 weeks!

America's Next Top Model???...

2010-07-27T21:16:00.000-05:00

I think we have some work to do! :)

Swing Set!

2010-07-23T22:08:00.000-05:00

A couple weeks ago we bought Rachel a swing set off craigslist. It isn't the nicest one on the block, but we got it for only 20 bucks and it does the job! She loves to swing! A huge THANK YOU to Gma and Gpa Oakley for helping us get it picked up!

Towel From GGma

2010-07-19T10:03:00.002-05:00

GGma put initials on towels for the kids for the 4th. Rachel used her towel after her bath the other night so we took a few pics for special memories. Thank you GGma!

4th of July Festivities

2010-07-16T21:47:00.003-05:00

The past few years we have celebrated the 4th of July at our house with family. This year not as much family was able to attend, the weather was not stellar, and we actually celebrated on the 3rd! We did a few fireworks before the rain hit, but then went inside for dessert. Branton and Tegan didn't seem to be bothered by the fireworks, in fact, Branton loved them, but Rachel and Brennan were less then thrilled! It wasn't the most happenin' party I've hosted, but never-the-less still fun to be with family and friends! Hope everyone had a fun and safe 4th!

Apparently GGpa was very excited about my cheescake bites!

Trip to Houston

2010-07-15T13:19:00.003-05:00

Last week Rachel and I (along with Gma Oakley, Aunt Jenn, Brennan, Branton, Aunt Shelly, and Tegan) made a trip to Houston to see the Coleman Crew! It took us about 11 hours to get there and then coming home it took just over 10! It was a blast to go, but oh so hot!!! We went to a water park and of course did lots of SHOPPING as usual! A HUGE thank you to Uncle Ryan who kept 4 of the 6 babies while the Mommas went shopping. I didn't have my camera for the trip so to see pics look at Aunt Jenn's blog! http://cjdouglasfamily.blogspot.com/2010/07/visiting-kinley-and-jaxon.html

Thanks Uncle Ryan, Aunt Jess, Kinley, and Jaxon for a nice visit! It was a blast!

Water Fun

2010-07-11T23:17:00.003-05:00