Where the Boys Are

Summer Kitchen

2011-03-18T07:16:00.004-05:00

As the weather warms, and my gardens go in, my kitchen evolves. The slow cooker is packed up, and out come all the summer implements - the seed packets, strewn everywhere. The little greenhouses (current count: 3) taking up all of my counter space. The giant compost bowl that really gets a workout. Seed potatoes chitting (yes, that's spelled correctly) on the counter. Under-counter flourescent light doubling as a grow light. Basically, there's not a free inch of space anywhere. And soon, it will get even worse - when the mason jars come out. Summer canning is just around the corner. But the kitchen is the heart of our home, and I love to see it's usefulness (and mine!) bless my family!

Tick Tick Tick

2011-03-15T08:59:00.003-05:00

"There is an apopinted time for everything. And there is a time for every event under Heaven." Ecc. 3:1

What is it time for us to do??

Can't shake this feeling! What is in store for us, I wonder?

A Time to Plant

2011-03-14T17:04:00.003-05:00

This weekend my parents were in town, and along with my grandpa's help, we all pitched in to build four new raised garden beds in our backyard. This brings our total gardening area to 238 square feet. We filled the beds with a lovely mix of topsoil and mushroom compost, and now we sit back and wait for the weather to turn. Just a few more short weeks, and I will be transplanting all of my little seedlings outside. And, actually, in just a few days I'll be putting in the potatoes. I can't wait to see what grows this year!

I'm planting all heirloom varieties - five varieties of tomatoes, four varieties of peppers, cucumbers, beans (snap and dry), okra, broccoli, peas, brussel sprouts, squash, zucchini, potatoes, ground cherries, herbs, and probably a few others that I'm forgetting. I'm also very hopeful that we will get blueberry bushes put in within the next few weeks. I can't imagine anything sweeter, in the wet cold months of February and March, than a sun-warmed vegetable traveling the short distance between the backyard and our plates, and nourishing my little family.

Unsettled

2011-03-09T16:47:00.003-06:00

I have an unsettled feeling. I've felt this way for weeks, maybe even months. Something is upset in the balance of our family, something is stirring in me, but I haven't put my finger on it just yet. Not in a bad way, but in a "change is coming" sort of way. I've been praying diligently that God will reveal the change that's upcoming, in His time, give us the answers. I'm meditating on some things, stewing in them, really; I'm looking forward to whatever season is coming next for us.

In the meantime, here is something I wrote a few days back. I opened a text document, and the words just starting blasting out of me. I've held this thought in for days, this idea of "intentional mothering" - which can apply to all of my roles, really. Intentional wife, intentional Christian, intentional friend. I'm pasting it here; it's not new information, but it's something to fill the page, at least as full as my mind has been lately...

Intentional mothering is a term I read the other day that absolutely struck a chord within me. I have four children, ranging in age from 2 to 8. Days can fly by in a blur – the day begins early and before I know it, I'm tucking children in, and wondering if I poured anything into their lives today. Yes, I spoke with each child. Yes, we spent time together at some point throughout the day. But was any of our interaction meaningful? Did I say anything to them today that enriched their lives? That pointed them towards God? That built character? So often, the answer is no.

I am motivated to become a more intentional mother. As I walk beside my daughter down a shopping aisle, I make a calculated decision to take her hand and talk to her about her day, asking questions about the things she seemed to enjoy most. As I drive in the car, with all four children buckled in behind me, we turn off the music and I repeat a scripture verse to them that's been on my heart, and we talk about how it applies to us. When I come in from the grocery, and I want to push everything into the fridge and go sit down for a half hour, I think about their little feet rushing off the bus this afternoon, into the front door, backpacks hitting the ground in the middle of the living room, and hearing their voices, “I'm hungry!” If I spend that half hour washing and cutting up all the fruit I purchased today, instead of plopping myself down, then they will enjoy that goodness when they come home. Intentionally making choices that put them first, that enrich their lives - I want to give them all that I have to give as their mother.

Years are flying by us like a rushing river. I am painfully aware of their growth as I do their laundry, and my son's jeans are almost as long as my own. They won't always be little babies, always under my care and influence. They are stretching out their necks, like the little seedlings I plant in the spring, unfurling and looking around themselves with a sense of wonder of the world. Don't grow yet, little babies! my heart screams at them. But grow they will, and every moment must be savored. I must make intentional choices to give them the best part of me, to impart what I know. I pray that I give them enough during these formative years, so that when they mature, they still look to their parents for Godly wisdom, but that they seek God first, and that they make intentional choices to show Christ's love to other people.

I want to make every minute count.

Haaaaaaave you met Kyle?

2011-01-17T20:01:00.007-06:00

(And if you know what show that's from, you may just be the perfect girl for my brother!)

(This post is part of Show Us Your Life at Kelly's Korner.)

This is Kyle.
Not the one on the left, the goofy one with the umbrella. That's my husband. Cute, I know, but married. Kyle is the one on the right with the sweet water pistol. My little brother is 26 years old. He lives in St. Louis, MO. He is a 6'2, very handsome college graduate from UT in Austin, with a degree in Advertising. He works for a St. Louis television station as a news producer - an Emmy-nominated one, might I add - and he just bought his first home in the St. Louis area, which he shares with his sweet pup, Hamus.

This is Kyle and my dad at a Big Green Egg convention in Tulsa. Our parents live in Tulsa, and the rest of our extended family is in the Northwest Arkansas area. We do manage to see each other fairly often - we're a close-knit family who enjoys spending time together. We love to get together to play games, eat amazing meals, work puzzles, take mini-trips, and basically just laugh ourselves sick. Kyle is absolutely the life of the party - supremely smart and funny. I love every minute we spend together.

This is Kyle with my oldest son, Owen. He is such a great uncle to my four kiddos. He always makes them laugh. He makes sure to send special cards on holidays (even marked with a pawprint from his dog, which the kids LOVE), and gives them amazing gifts. My kids LOVE their uncle Kyle.

Here is Kyle with my four kids this past July 4th. We all met in Tulsa at my parents' house for a fun weekend. You can tell by those faces that they are a handful, but Kyle is wonderful with them.

Kyle is in great shape, and enjoys running. He ran the Jenks Aquarium half marathon this past year, and he's run some smaller races, as well (the picture above is my husband, my dad, and Kyle running a 5K this past July).

Kyle loves the Lord, our family, cooking, music, television, watches, and his dog Hamus. He decided when he was in high school that he would finish college and get settled into a stable career before he got into any serious relationships, so that he would be ready to support and wife and family. He is ready now. If you think you can handle my amazing brother (and the rest of his amazing family), please leave me a comment below. Thanks!

Uncertain

2010-12-27T11:38:00.001-06:00

I wish I had finite plans in place for this little part of the interwebs that I call my own, but for now, I'm still on blog hiatus. I so enjoy going back and reading posts about the kids - their birth stories, their milestones, their day-to-day funnies. But right now, my life seems to require living it in real time, with hardly room to breathe, much less blog.

Some day, I'll be back!

Assembly Line

2010-02-03T17:23:00.003-06:00

Sometimes when I'm dishing up meals for my babes, I stop and look at all their plates or cups lined up in assembly line-style, and I'm amazed once again that I have four children.

Facebook Update

2010-01-16T20:04:00.003-06:00

Sorry for the long break from posting. I've been feeling overwhelmed lately, so it's been hard to get back here to the blog. But here's a link to a group of photos I posted to Facebook. They are pictures from our winter and Christmas. If you haven't seen these already, enjoy!

So, so blessed.

2009-12-12T00:05:00.002-06:00

364 Incredible Days

2009-11-11T10:14:00.004-06:00

I have so much to post in this little space. Tomorrow is a big day, the biggest, and I have a lot left on my to-do list for the birthday party this weekend. It's hard to accomplish it all with a little monkey crawling (yes, crawling) around, cutting four molars, and learning to open the front door to the house! Oh, it's so wonderful! I'll be back in this space shortly.

In the meantime, check out Nancy's block giveaway. Leave a comment on her blog to win a great prize. If we win these, they are going right under the Christmas tree!

Larger than Life

2009-11-07T10:29:00.002-06:00

Last year, right after Seth was born, I had these giant portraits of the kids made. They were to hang in the living room, but when I got the prints back, they are too fuzzy. I guess the resolution was too low to go so large. So, they've been hanging around in my closet for months, and this week I cleaned out that closet. Before we threw them out (which was painful given their cost), we decided to have a little fun with them. The kids thought this was hilarious.

Trick-or-Treat!

2009-11-01T18:07:00.005-06:00

This year for Halloween, we went the more traditional route of door-to-door trick-or-treating. The kids had fun filling their bags and running around in the cool night air. It was a perfect night to be out. Even Seth carried a bag and collected treats, and managed to eat his share, as well. After a few hours of trick-or-treating, we came home to examine the spoils. They got a great haul this year - all good chocolates and candies, some pretzels and cinnamon grahams, Rice Krispie treats, enough to replenish our candy drawer for another year! Here are some photos of our little Darth Vader, Red Dragon ninja, jack-o-lantern, and hoot owl. Happy Halloween!

BRAAAIIIINS!!

2009-10-31T11:25:00.003-05:00

Happy Halloween from the Zombie Fosters!

Big thanks to Lacey for photos and editing!

Uncooperative?

2009-10-27T19:47:00.011-05:00

Tonight was Owen's first parent-teacher conference. I wanted to be there, but I've felt kind of under the weather all day, so I sent Keith. I had no worries that he would come back with a glowing report of my precious little snowflake, so sensitive and sweet. And he did.

Kind of.

His grades are awesome (100s); he's in the highest reading group in his grade. He stays out of trouble 99% of the time. And his teacher marked a lot of nice things on his report card, about how helpful he is and so on. And ... she also marked "Uncooperative." I mean, I know he's uncooperative. I've met him, and he's nothing if not uncooperative. But I thought maybe he was hiding that little gem from his teacher. But (and she sent home his journal as evidence) in the mornings, during journal time, he is very "Uncooperative" about filling out the journal prompt that she provides for them every day. I spent some time reading through his journal, and I really had to laugh. Some days he complied with her prompts. Some days he wrote the word "nothing" or just "I don't know." And some days, he gave us little jewels like these:

What I really like about this one is the time he took to draw fifteen individual pictures and mark them all "me" (or sometimes, "me!"). Smart aleck.

We weren't thrilled with this one, but again, props to him for the excellent picture. And it made me laugh (when he wasn't looking).

Okay, so this is completely inappropriate to write in a journal that is read by his teacher (in case you can't read the lighter print at the bottom, it says [his spelling]: "Chuky chreet smell my feet if you dont I dont care Il pull down your under pants") and he was appropriately reprimanded, but between you and me? I totally laughed.

Family Photo Session

2009-10-19T11:13:00.004-05:00

We had family portraits done on Saturday by my friend Lacey. Once again, she reminds me how stunning my kids are. These are just three of several hundred shots she took. She got some wonderful close-ups of the kids' faces. These are pre-editing; once she edits them all, I'll have even more awesome ones. Look at those four little faces - precious!

Everyone's Favorite: Photo Update!

2009-10-07T16:39:00.006-05:00

Ari turned five in August, and he celebrated at Fast Lane. This is Ari with my brother and dad - I think this picture is hilarious, with both of them ignoring the birthday boy (I'm sure they weren't really ignoring him, but it's just good photography).
Owen won some major tickets at Fast Lane (for Ari's birthday)

The traditional birthday pancake (see others here)
Got to love the bath mohawks!

Yes, he's drenched in slobber and food on his cheeks and no pants and a packed diaper. But the cute, it shines through.

Over the long Memorial Day weekend, we took the kids to the Precious Moments Chapel in Carthage, MO. It was just about as hokey as I remember, but they had fun. All the statues and fountains were nude, and naked butts abounded. We had to stop and point and laugh at EVERY SINGLE ONE.

My loves outside the chapel

A family portrait (thank you, self-timer), in the gardens behind the chapel

Now that the baby is mobile, this is how I always find him: on his way to the party.

When Owen got off the school bus today, I was just pulling this Cinnamon Swirl Bread out of the oven. Mommy win!

Settling In

2009-09-28T09:22:00.003-05:00

Life the past two weeks has been decidedly drama-free. We did ultimately decide to withdraw Ari from kindergarten and give it a second try next year. So he's been home with me the past two weeks, and it's going really well. It's a whole different dynamic in the house now, with him and Seth being the only two home. He's also learning a lot of new chores and ways to help me throughout the day, now that he's the biggest kid around. He's happier, too, and anytime I ask him if he wishes he was at school, it's a big solid NO!

Owen, on the other hand, is so in love with first grade. He tells me everyday that school is so fun. He has lots of friends, he loves all the specialties (art, music, etc.), and he makes 100s on all of his work. He's doing so great. Of course, I wondered if he'd be shy when I sent him, if he'd cry when we dropped him off. He's more shy by nature, and usually an introvert, but he's gone way beyond any expectations I had for him. Sending Owen to public school this year was definitely the right choice for him.

Seth turned 10 months old recently. I need to do his official 10-month post, but the biggest change this month has been his mobility. He started army crawling a few days ago, and now he can go anywhere in the house he wants. He is definitely not using the right arm to crawl, but hopefully in therapy we can work on that more. For now, just being mobile has helped him relax a little, and play more independently. We've already put up the baby gate; it may be getting close to time to put up the crib! It seems strange to have an almost-1 year old in a cradle, but it's worked for us so far.

These crisp fall mornings are just the best. Walking outside with a steaming coffee and a hoodie on, opening the windows, sitting on the deck, and this for breakfast (SO GOOD!). I love this time of year. I hope it stays crisp and fall-y for a while, and doesn't just jump into cold, cruel winter.

Speaking of mornings, on my morning run yesterday, my leg finally gave out and I had to turn back after about half a mile. I've been battling shin pain for about 4 weeks, maybe a shin splint, not sure. I've been running through it for a while, but Saturday it hurt bad, and Sunday it plain old gave out on me. I guess I should see a doctor to confirm the diagnosis, but treatment is really just resting it anyways, so I may not go to the doctor. Then again, I may, because I want to continue running when it heals, and I need to make sure I do everything just right to insure that possibility. Something to mull over.

Owen's birthday is coming up soon, and I will be the mother of a 7-year old. I never feel as emotional and aged as I do on Owen's birthday, my first-born, my smart, sensitive, droll, lovely little blue-eyed elf.

Dumping Grounds

2009-09-11T13:23:00.003-05:00

Can I just be really real for a minute? Honestly? I am so, so fed up with kindergarten.

I'm just - over it.

We've been sending Ari for several weeks now, and rarely does a day go by when I'm not called on the phone, summoned to the school, or met at my car by his teacher with a bad report.

I feel completely defeated.

Let's be honest: anytime someone has something negative to say about your child, it's really you, the parent, that they are passing judgement on. So, it's not just Ari living under the scrutinizing eye of the school administration. It's also me. So yesterday, when we sat in the principal's office for an hour, being lectured by not one, not two, but three adminstrators, it was defeating. Trust me, it was not just Ari who had been called to the principal's office for discipline. And they made no bones about it, pointing out several "flaws" in my approach to handling these disciplinary issues. For one, they prefer that I not touch him in any way when I arrive. So when he leans against me, during the hour-long stretches of disapproving looks and sad faces and heavy-handed questioning, I should push him away? I should alienate him and make him feel even more attacked? Sorry, administrators, but you aren't the ones who go home every night and have your child cry to you, "Do you still love me when I make bad choices at school?" So pushing him away physically, not going to happen. And also, you're a meanie.

I was called yesterday because he broke a large tree branch off of a young tree. Seriously. At no point in Ari's life has he ever been told that he must not touch trees. Could he have known that this was a super-special sapling, planted last year after some fundraising effort by the students? Of course not. Was he being malicious? No. But because of who he is, because he is earmarked as "trouble", then we're called. And we must stand trial for tree massacre. And I sit, crying in the principal's office like it's my own fault, because it is, and Ari cries because what else do you do when three adults are looking down their noses with disapproving looks, and your mom is sad, and you know that somehow, you did something, but you're not sure what.

And today Keith is summoned, and there has been punching, and Ari is sent home before lunch. Who is this unhappy child? And what else under the sun can we possibly do to make the point that this behavior is unacceptable? He has zero access to toys, computers, video games, desserts and treats. He does chores and copies words and takes naps and goes to bed early. His life is sparse and I am out of ideas. And I want to shake those teachers and say, I am not a bad parent! He is not a bad kid! But this place, it makes him bad! And I want to run away with him and never go back.

It feels like a failure, and not because Ari is a failure, because he is NOT and he is my BLESSING and not my problem. But somewhere down the line, I have failed, because I can't comprehend how to communicate with my child what is right and what is wrong, and I can't protect him from the trouble he's in, and I can't make them understand that he is loving and sweet, and yes, mischievious, but remember? Loving! And sweet! And empathetic. And because they don't love him like I do, they don't bother to push past his label and see that there is more there. Because they are teachers, they are busy, and I understand that. But if this place isn't a place where he can learn and become better and be nurtured and loved, then it is not a place for him.

I guess his place must be with me.

Seth - 9 Months

2009-08-30T17:05:00.006-05:00

Dear Seth,

You are nine sweet months old. Every month that ticks off brings us closer to your one-year birthday, and I just cannot bear the thought. I've requested time to stand still, but so far, no response to my request.

You are such a precious little baby. I know, I say the same thing almost verbatim every single month about how wonderful you are, all those gushy things that mommas say about their babies. But no one's come up with any new words for "awesome" since last month, so I'm stuck with the same old English words. You are the sweetest, loveliest, smoochiest, squishiest, kickiest, screamiest little pile of baby that ever was. Your smile, your cheeks(!), your little comb-over, it is all just perfection.

At 9 months, you:

are 29 and 3/4 inches long (90th percentile).
are 22 pounds and 14 ounces (75th percentile).
eat four bottles per day, about 24 ounces of formula.
sleep 12 hours each night, from 7 to 7. Mostly.
are beginning to rock yourself back and forth, but not yet crawling or pulling up. Your only method of movement currently is rolling around.
have 8 teeth. Eight! Four on top, four on bottom.
say "Da-da!" both when you are prompted, and also when you actually see Dada.
eat all kinds of food, from baby food to table food and anything in between. You love to eat and snack.
laughed in my face (literally) when I offered you a sippy cup. You shook your head and said, "huh-uh" - no way, lady.
still sleep in a cradle in our closet. No point in putting the crib together just yet, although as soon as you master pulling up, or sitting up on your own, we'll be moving you in with the big boys.
are so enamored with Owen. You enjoy Ari and Eva, too, but there's something about Owen that you just can't get enough of. He is really sweet to you, plays patiently and loves carefully, and I think you sense that.
are mastering the pincher grasp. It's been very recently that you've figured out how to get small snacks into your mouth.
will start physical therapy in two days to work on your arm movement. This should help you figure out crawling and pulling up. You are so close, and I think this little bit of help will really get you moving.

Now that the big kids are all in school full-time, our days are spent hanging out together, one-on-one. I love being with you, not to mention how easy it feels! Our days go by so quickly, and before I know it, it's time to head to school to pick everyone up. I'm both afraid and excited that all our days are going to go by so quickly, and before I know it, it'll be YOU that I'm sending off to kindergarten. (I can't even begin to dwell on that thought, or emotional crisis is certainly imminent.) So again, for probably the ninth month in a row, I say to you that I love you, unconditionally, no matter what choices you make in life, or what you become, or who you befriend, or how many times in your life that we may disagree or straight out fight. For right now, we are best friends, and I want you to know some day, when you are a teenager or adult, and read back on these letters, that I loved you from the beginning. That my love for you will never, ever change. That you saved me from myself.

Love,

Mama

Playing Catch-Up

2009-08-30T16:55:00.003-05:00

It seems I've been away from the blog for quite some time now. So much has happened during these past few weeks that I want to write about. But it feels so overwhelming to try to go back now and catch up. It's funny that sometimes I feel enslaved to the blog. I guess that feeling is bound to come when I've been blogging for 7 years now. I just run out of juice to write anymore. But, I need to plug on, because it's important to me that I keep my monthly updates of the kids for the first 12 months, and I still need to write up Seth's 9-month letter. Also: Ari's 5th birthday, school starting for the first time, and Ari's first football game. Lots of big milestones! But I'll have to take them one at a time.

What did you do last night?

2009-08-06T08:50:00.003-05:00

Because I helped welcome this little hunk into the world.

In a quiet, warm room at home, at 1:06 AM, Henry was born to our best friends. He is 8 pounds, 4 ounces, and 21 inches long. He is perfect and lovely, and I was so blessed to be there.

Wicked!

2009-07-25T20:14:00.003-05:00

Guess what? Thursday I was able to sneak away for a quick visit to my parents' house - get this - ALONE. I made it with one small bag, in the allotted 2-hour time frame, with no one getting sick or fighting or crying. The musical Wicked was in town, and my mom and I had tickets. So I got in Thursday afternoon, and my parents and I went to dinner at a local sushi restaurant. It was super, and a rare treat, as you can imagine - the kids don't really appreciate sushi, so Keith and I don't get there often. Afterwards my mom and I headed downtown for the show. It was so incredibly good! We had fantastic seats, the actors and sets were spectacular, and I enjoyed every second of it. I, unfortunately, didn't take all the pictures I had planned on, but I did get one of the outside of the theatre, lit in green to celebrate the show, and a quite blurry photo of Elphaba and Glinda. It was a wonderful evening! And then Friday morning found me headed back home, feeling refreshed and missing my kids. Thanks, Mom and Dad, for the fantastic fun.

Seth Hayden - 8 Months

2009-07-16T16:28:00.003-05:00

Seth, you are 8 months old. You are absolutely, perfectly, completely 8 months old.

At 8 months, you are:

eating solids three times per day, and down to about 4 bottles per day (of 6 ounces each).
working on cutting your top middle tooth. You have already cut your four bottom middle teeth.
perfectly stationary. Crawling is optional, and you have opted out.
waving 'hi' and making our day every time you do it.
giving open-mouth kisses (thanks, but no thanks on the tongue).
in a size 3 diaper, and 9 - 12 month clothing.
still sleeping in a cradle in our closet. No need to break out the crib just yet, as a) we don't have anywhere to put it, and b) you aren't moving around, so the cradle is working just fine.
learning to feed yourself, slowly but surely. You've almost got it, although more food still ends up in the floor than in your mouth.
finding your voice, and you are so loud. You've started saying "ba-ba-ba" - not meaning anything by it just yet.
wary of strangers, and also Ari (he loves you, but roughly). Owen will always bring a smile to your face.

I have plenty of words to describe all the things you're doing, all the ways you're growing. But I do not have words for how much I love you, how much happiness you've brought into our home, how much laughter you've brought to me. In the middle of my toughest times, it seems you've come here just to teach me that I can experience unadultered joy again. You are our gift and our blessing. Little Bitty, you are a bright, bright spot.

Future Hall of Famer

2009-07-14T11:26:00.004-05:00

For the first year this year, one of our kids is playing organized sports. Ari is playing football through the Upwards program at our church. He just barely squeaks in at 4 years old; he was by far the smallest little guy I saw the night we were there. We had to take him last week to evaluations. Several coaches run the kids through different drills and routes and skills tests to determine their playing level, then they distribute the children equally onto different teams, insuring that no one team has all the future NFLers, I guess. I was a nervous wreck on the sidelines, wondering if Ari could figure out the running routes - he was just so little! He was last in line (in the green shirt), so he would watch the other boys, and figure it out, and just take off when it was his turn. I was so proud of him! He caught three of his five passes (which they catch while running sideways), which was his biggest fear. And although his throwing skills aren't quite superb (on the long throw, he pretty much just grounded it straight down), overall he did fantastic. I cannot wait for games! He is just so cute out there, and although he was battling some serious nerves (he came up with all kinds of excuses why he couldn't go to evaluations, including a fake injury and an impromptu nap), he went out there and did his best. We're still waiting to hear what team he's on, and while I don't expect he'll be playing quarterback this year, it's still going to be so fun to see him out there!

The Wheeze Turns Four

2009-07-07T10:51:00.005-05:00

Friday was Eva's fourth birthday. To celebrate this year, we decided to forego the standard party and instead do a full day of "girl time" - she is the Girliest Girl, so she thought this would be a great idea. We started the day with our traditional birthday pancakes (I ran out of batter because I made her a "3" pancake (FAIL), so we had to do some quick thinking with the blueberries). Then she and I dressed up and headed out shopping. Her birthday list included a new dress and some new toys, to be determined when we arrived at Target. So we shopped every single aisle of Target, and she picked out some new shoes, an adorable dress, and several Barbies. I was surprised at her choice, because she doesn't have any Barbies, and I didn't think she'd be interested, but she fully considered every aisle of toys, and we came right back to the Barbies. After Target we hit her absolute favorite store: Old Navy. After our shopping, we headed to the nail salon to get our nails done. She had her toenails and fingernails painted while I got a pedicure. She picked out a bright pink, and as a birthday surprise, the nail tech added white flowers and little blue stones in the middle. You've never seen a girl more excited about anything in her life! She was thrilled with her nails. After that we went to lunch (her choice, Mexican) where she put away some serious food. Later in the day we drove to Tulsa and had cake and more presents with Meme and Poppy. She seemed to have a really fun day, and oh, the excitement on Monday morning when she got to school with her nail polish!

Happy 4th birthday, Miss Priss!

A Day with Nanny & Papa

2009-07-01T11:32:00.007-05:00

Last week while Keith was out of town, while Eva was at school, the boys and I spent a day with Nanny and Papa. They are my grandparents, the kids' great-grandparents. They live on a huge piece of land, and Papa keeps a big garden, and the boys wanted to check it out. So we went over early one hot, hot morning. Papa was already out working, and he offered to take the boys up to the garden. Owen chickened out (too hot), but Ari and I went on. I got some precious pictures of Ari and Papa together, enjoying the garden and each other. He showed Ari how to dig potatoes, pull onions, and let him pick a green bean, squash, and a couple of cucumbers. We brought Ari's vegetables home (along with another big bag of potatoes and squash!) and enjoyed them that very evening. After their gardening, we played inside with Nanny (pillow forts, blocks, TV), had lunch (Happy Meals! and chocolate cake!), then headed home for nap. I treasure these pictures beacuse I grew up playing in that house, on that land, in that garden, and now my kids are enjoying it, too. (I didn't get a single shot of Nanny or myself that day, but we were both there, I promise! I need to get better about taking more pictures, and including myself with the kids sometimes.)

Walking out to the garden

Checking out the vegetables

The proud gardener!

Could that baby be any more relaxed?!

Pillow forts! The big red & yellow pillow is practically a family heirloom; I played with it when I was younger than Owen is now.

The bountiful harvest

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T14:21:00.005-05:00

Although today is my 30th birthday, which only comes once, I will secede the spotlight momentarily to my wonderful husband on Father's Day. The kids and I are blessed to have him. He's the definition of a hands-on dad, no easy feat with four kids ages 6, 4, 3, and 7 months. He has never balked at the nasty side of parenting: cleaning puke, changing diapers, discipline. He helps with meals, handles bedtimes, baths, takes the baby when I need him to. He wrestles and plays dolls. The boys eat him up like cotton candy; they just love everything he says and does. They are certain there is no one in the world stronger or smarter or more capable of fixing things than their Daddy. I remember the feeling that the house was safe and the world was alright when my daddy was home. I am so glad that I married a man who is able to give that same feeling to our kids. Babe, thanks for everything you do. Your babies love you, and I love you.

7 Months

2009-06-16T12:25:00.002-05:00

Seth, for weeks I've been thinking you would turn 7 months old this upcoming weekend. I have no idea why I thought that, but the end result is that you up and turned 7 months old when I wasn't paying attention. This month feels a lot like last month, except that you've gained another tooth (that makes four teeth, all on the bottom, coming through at once), and you've started sleeping better. I decided that it was time to cut out your nighttime feedings, and it only took you about 2 nights to get on board. So now you're sleeping consistently from 8 PM to 6 AM, then you eat and go back to sleep for another couple of hours. It's wonderful!

You have zero interest in mobility. I'm so surprised. Both of your brothers were crawling at this point, but you seem to be perfectly content to stay put. You are sitting up really well, rolling every which way, and that seems to be enough for you.

You are still eating very limited solids. Most days you have no solids at all, or maybe just a few bites of table food while we're eating dinner. I'm going to try once more to make some green beans and see if you like that - you've so far rejected both bananas and sweet potatoes.

Your vocalizations are changing. You haven't let out a da-da yet, but you are very close. Your babblings are taking on more consonant sounds, and you are using patterns that sound more like actual speaking. And you are loud! And it's so cute.

We just love you so much! Happy 7 months, Seth Hayden!

2009-06-14T10:31:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was a scorcher of a day, but we were out in it for Keith's brother's wedding. He was married in a local park, and the park was definitely beautiful. The heat was bad, though; the groom was sweating like crazy in his tux! It was a small wedding, with no attendants, but Eva did participate as a flower girl. She did a fine job of walking down the aisle, and stood nicely during the ceremony. I tried to explain to her what she'd be doing as I was getting her ready, and she didn't understand what a wedding was, so I told her she'd be in a show. Then she started talking about who was coming to "her show" so I told her it was actually Uncle Kyle's show, because he was the one getting married. Then she said, "If I'm getting married today, can I be a mommy now?" Apparently we were having trouble communicating! But she did play her role well, and the boys were quite well-behaved in the audience, even though it was hot and they were just pouring sweat. Seth rocked a cap and brought a whole new level of cute, I have to say. The reception was at the groom's house, in his backyard, and we were able to relax and just hang out while the kids ran around. And - finally - it cooled off while we watched the newlyweds dance, open gifts, and cut the cake. Seth ate his weight in potatoes, then proceeded to spit them back up on three different people. We had fun, and were completely exhausted when we got home after 9 PM. I'm glad we were able to be there. Keith's brother is just the neatest guy, and he loves our kids, and we're really happy he's around.

Pet Shop

2009-06-12T11:00:00.004-05:00

My boys are really into video games and computer games. However, they are only 6 and 4 after all, and still do their share of imaginary play. This is a favorite: pet shop. They line up all of their stuffed animals, and then we go in and purchase a pet. Pets range from $1 to $800, based on the whim of the pet shop owner at the time. They also sell pet food, and sometimes homes for pets, as well. They are such cuties.

Last but not least

2009-06-11T20:25:00.004-05:00

If this child's first words aren't "Mom, get out of my face," I'll be surprised. If he's not getting kissed, hugged, or just plain old stared at, then he's being photographed.

Just in time for Father's Day ...

2009-06-10T20:50:00.000-05:00

Grab a tissue.

Conversation

2009-06-09T20:35:00.003-05:00

Driving in the car today -

Ari (pointing out the window): Owen, look! A magic unicorn!
Owen: Nice try, Ari. I already know that unicorns don't resist!

It's true, I've heard that about unicorns. Won't even put up a fight.

NAPTIME

2009-06-08T16:19:00.002-05:00

On days when the baby refuses to nap, the whole day feels askew. LIKE TODAY.

Two Ways to Get Your Heart Rate Up

2009-06-05T22:05:00.003-05:00

Tonight I did my fifth jog. I am feeling sore, out of shape, beat up, and fantastic. I hate exercising, with a bloody passion, and the entire time I'm doing it, I am just miserable. But the feeling at the end of a workout, the feeling of accomplishment, the sore muscles and fatigue, it's a great thing. I've been doing an interval program to break me into jogging - I am sorely out of shape. I'm on the second week, and the jogging intervals are only up to 90 seconds. Doesn't sound like much, I know, but it is definitely getting the job done. I'm amazed at how the human body works, how it adapts and changes to what you throw its way. I've never been a big fan of my body, but I'm learning to trust it more, be happy with what it can do, and accept the changes I need to make. After all, it's delivered three gorgeous, healthy babies with no problems whatsoever, and I am really grateful for that. It hasn't failed me yet! I'm slowly, slowly breaking myself into this exercise thing, and I hate it as much as I love it. So far.

A couple of nights ago, the boys were horsing around in the living room. It wasn't long before we heard a crash, and Owen came running into the kitchen to tell us that Ari fell off the couch, into the wall, and was hurt. I didn't really believe him, because we didn't hear any crying, and Ari will always scream his head off if he's hurt. So Keith and I walked into the living room, and sure enough, there between the couch and the wall lay Ari, crumpled into a ball, completely silent and completely still. So I did what any normal person would do - I started screaming. I ran over and grabbed him, and Keith was all cool and collected, and asked, "Haven't you seen anyone knocked out before?" So, I mean, A) NO I HAVEN'T and B) THIS IS MY 4-YEAR OLD SON. Screaming is in order. About this time, I've got my arms around Ari, and my heart is pounding out of my body, and adrenaline is rushing, and I'm internally listing injuries he could have, steps we should take next, when I get a look at his face. A good look at his face. His SMILING face. His FAKE HURT, CLOSED EYES, GRINNING little face. This apparently was a good idea he had, to "play dead" as he called it. Or, alternatively titled, Send Mama To An Early Grave. So we had a nice talk about not pretending we are hurt if we are really not hurt, and how scared I was, and why he should never do this to Mama again. And then all my hair turned gray and fell out. This kid, this kid. Always something with Ari, never nothing. Gotta love him.

A long overdue 6-month post for Little Bitty

2009-06-03T10:41:00.001-05:00

Dear Seth,

This post is long overdue, but on May 12 you turned 6 months old. A whole half a year, and time is just flying by. Don't make me break out the cliches, mister, about time and how quickly it passes. I've loved every minute of it, even those tough couple of days in the NICU. Oh, how I worried and cried and prayed for you. We never expected anything less than a perfectly healthy newborn, and then you arrived, with your traumatic birth and breathing tubes and feeding tubes, and it was almost too much. We are so, so blessed at your healings, and I thank God every single day for you, for the baby that almost wasn't. It has allowed me to truly treasure every moment, even the middle of the night moments, to memorize every crease and fold of your chubby little body, to sniff your neck constantly, soaking up your little baby smell. I really do feel like you are our miracle baby. You've certainly restored parts of me that I thought long gone.

The last few months have really been new ground for me, since you're the first baby I've been able to stay home with. With the others, I was back to work at 12 weeks, and then they became little time-shares, spending the days with Miss Leanna and the evenings at home. But you, you are completely mine, and I love to be selfish with you. I spend hours on the floor at home, laying or sitting beside you while you play, trying to teach you things, enjoying every noise and facial expression that you make. I didn't have a chance to do this with the others, so I am soaking it up with you.

At six months, you are:

18 pounds, 14 ounces and 28 inches long.
wearing 6 - 12 month clothing and size 3 diapers.
drinking approximately 30 ounces of formula each day.
not eating solids really at all, except for the occasional table food bits (mashed potatoes, bread).
cutting 3 teeth - all three on the bottom, and all three in different stages of coming in.
napping twice a day, once around 10 AM and once around 2 PM, for a total of about 4 hours.
going to bed at 8:30 PM and sleeping until around 8 AM (with one or two night wakings in between).
sitting up really well, although I still keep crash pillows around, just in case.
so over the Laugh & Learn, much too mature for that silly baby toy now. Now we play sitting up, with real toys.
enjoying the Jumparoo, and you get so excited and jump and laugh like crazy.
working on your grasp - it takes you a couple of tries to pick up something small, but eventually you get it. Your grasp is still stronger with your left arm, and you definitely prefer your left hand, but that right arm is looking really good.
still in a cradle, still in our closet. We'll have to break out the crib eventually, but not just yet.
starting to give kisses, at least, your version of a kiss - leaning in with an open mouth. It is the cutest thing in the world.
shaking your head NO. This is brand new, and it's really cute, too.
still have blue eyes (not bright blue like Owen, but more gray-blue) and blondish-reddish hair.
enjoying your brothers, most of the time. You are much more relaxed with Owen than with Ari, but Ari's quite a lot rougher when he plays with you. Eva and you co-exist, but rarely does she pay you any attention. So for now, it's all about the brothers.

We just took you to Branson this past weekend, your first real trip away from home, and you did so well. We hardly noticed you were there! You played nicely at the condo, slept just fine in the pack-n-play, smiled and entertained yourself at dinner (along with eating lots of Daddy's sweet potato), and spent the day at Silver Dollar City almost entirely with a pleasant attitude. You snoozed, ate, spent some time being carried, but all in all you were such an awesome baby to have along. I was definitely worried about taking you out of your element, but you showed me again how mellow and sweet-natured you are. No problem.

Thank you, sweet Seth, little Bitty, for all the happiness you've brought me and the rest of the family. I love you more than I have words for.

Mama

One Baby, Needs Attention

2009-05-22T11:22:00.004-05:00

When Seth feels that he's not being paid proper attention, he fake coughs. It is hilarious. I tried to get a video of it by hiding around the corner where he couldn't see me, and sure enough, he had to break out the fake coughs. He is AWESOME.

Kindergarten Graduation

2009-05-22T10:18:00.006-05:00

On May 7, Owen officially graduated from kindergarten! It was the cutest little ceremony. The teacher called each child up by name, saying their parents' names, and also stating a character trait that the child had grown in over the past year. Owen excelled in "social awareness and empathy." Of course, it went about as I figured it would - Owen refused to wear the hat (in his defense, it absolutely would not stay on his head), refused to go forward until I dragged him up, and then stood there, as far away from the other children as possible, doing the patented Owen Walk of Shame (head down, sad face). Keith was mortified. I guess I'm just used to it by now. That kid, the one who won't participate in anything, who will probably cry and make a scene? Who's "WORST DAY EVER!" is every day? Who is a true pessimist? The 'glass half empty' kid? Yeah, that's my kid. Just another day being Owen's mom, and I just love the stuffing out of him just the same. And fortunately, all of his issues left me with no opportunity to sit down and feel sorry for myself and be weepy over my new first-grader.

But after the graduation ceremony came his Florida report, and I have to say, he rocked it. He was really anxious to get it over with, and was very vocal about wanting to have his turn. His teacher held his poster and he read the report, and during his reading, we passed out Florida orange juice to the other kids. He was very proud of himself, and I was SO proud of him. He was hands-down the best in class (seriously, even though I know I'm biased). Here's a video of his presentation.

Never-Ending Trail

2009-05-20T12:00:00.003-05:00

So the weather here - oh, the weather here. It rained for about 40 straight days, and then the sun shone like a beautiful mirage, and now we've had almost a week of absolutely perfect weather. It's about 75 degrees, light breeze, full sun, leaving nothing to be desired. I've tried and tried to get myself and the children outside every day, at the park, or even for a walk, because I know that in Arkansas time, we have but only a few days left until opening the front door feels like walking into an oven. So we've been out and about lately, and it's not as hard as I thought it would be, what with Seth being practically elderly at 6 months old now, and the boys being able to dress themselves (albeit without lending a care towards matching, or, you know, seasonal trending). We head to the car, and as soon as I open the door, the boys start screaming that they are BURNING! BURNING! They've forgotten last summer, with their little minds being full of other things (video games, computer games, ad naseum), and that cars get hot in the summer, they just do - so they get into their carseats and yell that they are burning, and beg for me to please turn the cold air on.

Yesterday I forced them to venture out (Owen protests, as he's had a slight cold lately, or possibly allergies, and didn't FEEL LIKE WALKING and today is his worst day EVER), and we decided to try a new walking trail, for the new adventure and the new scenery. We parked in the parking lot, decided to head left instead of right, and off we set. The trail is very lovely, following a creek almost the entire time (which was running high due to recent days of abundant rain), and there are benches in the shade along the way. It also runs alongside a mountain bike trail, with ramps and other obstacles for tricks (I presume, not being a mountain biker myself), which was so interesting to the boys. Seth rode along in his stroller, and we walked about a mile before we came to a bridge. The bridge ran over a particularly inviting part of the creek, with a couple feet of water and a pretty fast-moving current. The edges banked nicely down, with large rocks for sitting and feet-dangling, and so we did just that for quite some time. A lady came, with her two large golden retrievers, and they swam and fetched sticks, and we watched them, and the boys threw rocks. Then we felt refreshed and started on the second half of the walk - that second mile that loops you back around to the parking lot. Or so we thought.

The second half of the trail is in direct sun for a long portion of the time, and the boys were hot. They shucked shirts and I decided it was time to lather on the sunscreen. They started complaining, and slowing down, but we trudged on. Then, we reached the 2-mile marker. And the trail dead-ended. Just stopped on some small country road. No sidewalks, nothing in sight either way, no idea where we were. And the boys broke down. The thought of turning around and walking back 2 more miles was more than they could handle. Ari fell to the ground and moaned, "We're going to DIE out here, with no water!" I tried to rally the troops, but they couldn't be rallied. I dragged them the two miles back to the car, with the promise of a drink at Sonic if they could make it. We did stop again at the creek on the way back, but it didn't have the same magic as it did 3 miles ago. Needless to say, in the future we won't be taking any new trails without some serious investigation first. But this won't stop our adventuring! We are sunburned and blistered today, but we will be back out before you know it.

By the way, Seth rode along happily for the entire 3-hour tour, that little sweetie-pie. He is just the most delicious thing.

6 Months Old

2009-05-12T12:00:00.003-05:00

Six months old today and the medical bills are just now rolling in for his birth. Took them long enough to skin us alive. Thanks, hospital!

Since he's 6 months old now, I've decided to wean Seth to a bottle. I'm taking four pills a day to make milk for him, and I'm still having to supplement, so it's time. He's adjusting really quickly, which is a good thing, but still makes me a little sad. I've enjoyed and hated nursing him, both, bittersweet to say the least. But he may just be my last little one, and so of course there's some sadness in ending this part of our relationship. He's a big boy now, though, so he's moving on to other delicious things such as refried beans (pictured above) and mashed potatoes. He's the pickiest little eater I've had, and he rejects most everything I've given him in the way of baby food. Perhaps he just has a more mature palate.

Owen's Big Report

2009-05-05T22:25:00.006-05:00

On Thursday Owen must give his first-ever report at our homeschool co-op. It's for his States and Capitals class, and he must choose a state and present a few sentences about that particular state. He decided to choose Florida, because they have spaceships (the Kennedy Space Center) and alligators. We worked on his visual aide today, and it is just so cute. He is also going to take orange juice for his class. I love his writing and his little artistic touches. Whether or not he's actually going to say his prepared speech, I have no idea (although I doubt it, seriously, even with some major bribing), but he definitely worked hard today on his project.

Completely unrelated, here are some pictures of sweet little Seth helping make pancakes last night in the sling.

My Love

2009-05-04T19:29:00.000-05:00

Review

2009-05-04T11:23:00.002-05:00

Friday night: date night at home with Mama Fu's and Slumdog Millionaire. Pad Thai = very, very good!
Saturday: lunch with Keith's old high school buddy, massive grocery shopping, cooking (and destroying the kitchen in the process) for Betsy's birthday dinner, then said dinner with six adults and eight children! Cupcakes, ice cream, Sequence, new friends and lots of laughing.
Sunday: church, lunch (where a solids-squeamish baby INSISTED on eating my lunch. He'll pass on the baby cereal, thank you very much, for those delicious mashed potatoes), naps for most, and readying ourselves for the week ahead.

This week: tumbling class, Owen's presentation on Florida at homeschool co-op, kindergarten graduation, preparing for Mother's Day. Gardening, coloring, probably a trip to McDonald's, lots of Sethy love, garage saling, video games. The usual!

Pregnant Photo Archive

2009-05-01T19:17:00.001-05:00

This is, I believe, the last pregnant picture taken of me with Seth (maybe EVER if Keith has his way). Man, that belly is a whopper. I have to say, he was worth it though, all 11 pounds, 11 ounces of him!

Conspiracy Theory

2009-04-28T13:18:00.004-05:00

Things conspiring against me today:

weeds in my garden
pollen
my hair
our insurance company
my sewing machine

And also, to the wickedly sharp yet tiny tooth in Seth's little bitty mouth: consider yourself on notice. Did you hear that? ON NOTICE.

Seth Hayden - 5 Months

2009-04-21T08:05:00.004-05:00

Honestly, five months already.

At 5 months, you are:

sleeping through the night, finally. Going to bed between 8:30 and 9, and sleeping until 6 AM. Then after eating, you sleep for another hour or two. Not bad, grasshopper.
still nursing, and showing no interest in eating solids. You definitely are interested in grabbing at my food or drink, spilling it if you can, but when I try to feed you solids, you have no clue what to do with them.
wearing 6 - 12 month clothes and size 3 diaper. I would estimate your weight at 17.5 pounds.
rolling tummy to back like a pro, and rolling back to tummy every so often. Even if you can't crawl, you are certainly mobile, and can manage to move yourself around the floor just by twisting, turning and rolling.
not sitting up yet, but trying really hard.
cutting a tooth! It's official, it's broken the skin. And IT IS SHARP.
good at controlling your grasp, able to aim your hand at something and actually get a hold of it.
squealing, cooing, laughing, but no consonant sounds yet.
recognizing faces, especially Daddy and me. When Daddy gets home from work, you throw both of your hands in the air and wave at him to come and pick you up already!

I can't help myself, I am completely crazy about you. Some days I have a feeling that a sweeter, more precious baby has never been born ever in the entire world. You are just THAT SWEET. I am so glad you are here.

Love,

Mama

Underestimating

2009-04-17T11:46:00.003-05:00

Last night, in an effort to drag our video game- and computer-addicted children into the sun (the BURNING sun, MY EYES!), Keith offered to pay them 5 cents for every weed they pulled in the yard. He figured this would buy him time to do some yard work while they played around, picked a few weeds, and then would eventually wander back in where they would naturally gravitate to the computer, and their hand would reform back into a mouse-shaped claw. Only he didn't know that Owen had his eye on a new Ben 10 toy at Wal-Mart. He didn't know Owen had it in him to go the distance. He pulled 310 weeds. He kept count and made a massive pile on the edge of the yard. And now, well, now Keith owes him a lot of money.

Also, he graduates from kindergarten on May 7. I have tried, and failed, to stop time.

Picture Update

2009-04-15T11:27:00.002-05:00

My memory card was full and I didn't get any pictures of the kids in their Easter finery, or hunting eggs, so these pictures will have to do for now. This is Seth's new finger that he sucks, and it is the most random finger to suck, I think - but he loves it. He soothes himself so much better now. He is sleeping better, and I think it can be attributed to this finger. Also, there are some pictures of Seth's gun-slinging. He and Owen were "playing" weapons, according to Owen. Start 'em young, right?

Teachable Moments

2009-04-09T17:52:00.002-05:00

There is an area outside of our local Wal-Mart that homeless people frequent. There is nowadays nearly always someone there with a sign, looking for food or work. I am a drive-by type of person. I never carry cash, and I don't know how to help, so I tend to lock the doors and look the other way. My boys don't have this luxury - they always look, always want to read the signs, always want to help. Today there was a man there, and Ari asked why we couldn't take him to our home and get him lunch. I tried to explain that we didn't know him, he could be a dangerous stranger, and we couldn't really help. But then the boys asked again, and again, and I could tell this was bothering them. So I decided that this would be a Teachable Moment. My friend Sherry tells me about these moments in her parenting, and I have always looked up to her and gleaned wisdom from her, so I've adopted these Teachable Moments into our lifestyle. And today was one.

So we turned the car around and, since I had no cash on me as usual, we drove through a McDonalds and got the largest meal and soda we could. I told the boys we would bless the food, and pray for the man to find work and a home. So we said our prayer and pulled over to give the man the food. I have to say that he seemed very grateful, and the boys were so relieved that he wasn't hungry, at least not for now. About half an hour later, as we were eating lunch at home, they started talking about him again, how they hoped he enjoyed his food. I hope they learned something from today, about blessing other people and praying for others. And I think I learned to open my eyes more, to see others around me, to notice. So, a Teachable Moment for all of us.

On a funnier note, when I was trying to talk the boys out of bringing the man home, I said something about what if he had a knife, he could hurt us - then after we delivered his meal, Ari said, "Now he can use his knife to cut his hamburger!"

Those Eyes!

2009-04-04T19:52:00.001-05:00

People comment more on Owen's eyes than on any other quality of any of the other kids - it's those lashes, I guess, or the sparkly blue color. He gets comments any time we go in public. I think my friend Lacey did a beautiful job of capturing them here! What a sweet, sweet boy.

Big Baby

2009-03-27T09:58:00.003-05:00

Wow, we all thought Seth was such a big guy. How about at 4 months, same as Seth is now, Ari weighed 19 pounds, 2 ounces? Now that is a big baby! And once again, for your viewing enjoyment, Ari's 4-month picture.

4 Months

2009-03-21T18:17:00.003-05:00

Dear Seth,

Last week you turned 4 months old. How can that be? I've stopped thinking in terms of how many weeks you are, and now I'm thinking in terms of months. I just can't believe how time flies. Your infanthood is flashing by me, and all I want it to do is SLOW DOWN. How can I make you slow down?

At four months, you are:

16 pounds, 13 ounces and 26 inches long, which puts you in the 90th percentile for both.
now rolling from your tummy to your back, and you are very close to rolling from back to tummy.
cutting two bottom teeth, which are just barely poking through the surface.
wearing 6 - 9 month clothing and a size 3 diaper.
nursing 6 times a day, and still waking at least once each night (most nights, twice).
sleeping in your bassinet in our room, still - and you are over the weight limit, but I'm not ready to break out the big crib just yet.
reaching and grabbing objects with a purpose.
cooing, smiling, but not really laughing just yet.
just starting on solids - we've had bananas a few times, and you are pretty indifferent.
enjoying your bouncy seat, Jumparoo, and swing - but the big hit is the Laugh-n-Learn. You also really love your taggy toy.
on a really good daytime schedule.
still the star of the show.

As you lose your "newborn-ness" and turn into a real, live baby, I'm learning more and more about you. Your moods, your cries, your coos, and learning to meet your needs with greater ease. As we understand each other better, I am able to keep you happier. But really, you are the most mellow little thing ever, and I couldn't possibly ask for anything more wonderful than you. I love you, I love you, I love you. I can't imagine you getting big, like your brothers - my mind can't wrap around that. But when you do, I will still be here, loving you.

Mama

Lunch Ideas

2009-03-13T12:09:00.004-05:00

Staying at home with the kids has definitely led to lunch boredom. If I see one more sandwich or bean burrito, I might just go crazy. I've been doing lots of Googling lately trying to find some fresh ideas for lunches. I think maybe I am too traditional in my thinking - I plan for one main item (such as a sandwich), a cracker or chip, and a fruit or vegetable. But there are a lot more options when I start looking outside the box. I found many ideas for cracker and cheese lunches (homemade Lunchables, cracker mini-pizzas), or savory muffins (such as today's lunch of Frog in a Bog muffins - homemade cornbread with sausages), or different homemade dips. I'm trying to branch out in our choices, and hopefully get the kids eating a greater variety of things. Not just sandwiches!

Today we had the Frog in a Bog muffins and fruit kebabs (known around here as "Fruit Swords") - the kebabs were a huge hit, and the boys happily ate down all of the fruit, even the honeydew melon, which they've never had before and might have spurned otherwise. The muffins were delicious, and I have enough to pop some in the freezer for lunch another day. Not a traditional lunch, but the boys loved it (no fighting over finishing their food), and it was pretty simple. My kind of change.

Happy things to remind me

2009-03-13T09:47:00.002-05:00

Since I don't feel well, and I am feeling generally frustrated, I feel the need to make a list of things that are making me happy right now. So here goes.

Ari being a great big brother today, willingly wiping the baby's runny nose
Slippers on clearance for $2/pair - my boys are basement dwellers, and have permanently frozen feet. They are happily wearing their new slippers (v. cute).
Trying bananas on the baby - his face clearly said, "What is in my mouth, and why on God's green earth would you put it there? Honestly."
Finding that I froze a tin of chocolate toffees from Christmas, and discovering that they are still delicious
Seth sleeping 7 straight hours last night. A fluke, but a welcome one.
Seeing my brother tomorrow

There are always, always good things to be happy about. No matter what else is going on around me, there are my family, my friends, and all these little short people in my life who are making me feel better and bringing joy. Just needed to make a list for perspective today.

Second verse, same as the first

2009-03-12T09:31:00.002-05:00

Going Round 2 with mastitis and not sure I can do this again. Breastfeeding! GAH!

New Baby Trick!

2009-03-10T09:33:00.003-05:00

Yesterday Seth started rolling from his back to his tummy. So much for tummy time! As soon as I lay him down on his tummy, he flips himself. No matter how many times I turn him back over, he rolls again. I tried to video him rolling, but he's so fast, he flips before I get the camera on.

It's amazing how we all just sit around and watch him. If he's in the room, he's the center of attention, especially from the boys. They think he's pretty much the most fabulous baby ever. Hard for me to disagree with that!

One Year Ago

2009-03-03T18:34:00.004-06:00

One year ago today, I received the magical news that I was pregnant. I received a positive pregnancy test one year ago today. And now we are a family of six. It's amazing the difference a year makes. Life is so much more challenging today than it was on March 3, 2008. And even though it's so much more difficult, and even though today the baby is Kind of Losing His Crap, I am so, so much in love with him. In just a year.

The cute. I has it.

A Photo Update

2009-02-26T10:51:00.007-06:00

Here's a quick update, in picture form.

First up, Valentine's Day. I love Valentine's Day, and we try to make a big deal out of it every year. This year we got up early for a big breakfast (our Valentine's celebrations always involve getting up early, since it falls during tax season and Keith is up and out of the house before sunrise) of pink, heart-shaped pancakes. We got the kids a little something, and their Meme and Poppy spoiled them with goodies. I love these pictures of their sleepy faces (although why Owen is wearing a hood is beyond me).

Also, I finally finished a quilt I started for my brother for Christmas. I am pleased with the final result - large enough for a tall guy like him to cuddle under, manly colors, nice and crinkly. I used quilting cottons for the stripes, oxford shirting for the sashing, and quilting cottons for the back. I sent it out for quilting, as I've never tackled anything this large on my machine. It made a pretty package all tied up.

I also finished a baby quilt I started on a while back (I've shown the quilt top here before) - this was my first crib-sized quilt that I've stippled myself on my machine. I just love it, and kind of wish I could keep it, but I made it with a special baby girl in mind, so into the box it goes.

Betsy lent us a new toy, the Jumparoo, for our little one who is outgrowing his boring little baby toys like the swing. It seems to be a hit so far (although these pictures don't seem it, it really is)! This is the beginning of his famous half-smile.

This picture is a little dark, but it is such a good one of the two best buddies, Owen and Seth. Owen is such an amazing big brother. He loves a little rough sometimes, sure, but he is the best entertainer when I need him. I am so proud of him.

Speaking of Owen, I was putting laundry up in his room the other day, and I found this note. It's pretty clear, but in case you can't read it, it says this (with all his lovely spelling and grammatical decisions intact): "I love you Mom and dad. Good by Mom Dad Eva and Ari. I am going to Massachsetts." This is the best and most hilarious thing I've ever found in his room. I love it. I want to frame it. I asked him why he didn't say good-bye to Seth, and he said, "Because he's coming with me." I am crazy about that smart little kid.

And finally, although there is no picture for this one (if there was one, it would be of me crying), I pre-registered the boys for school this week - Ari for kindergarten, Owen for first grade. Yes, public school. Although I want to keep them home with me forever, Owen just isn't that happy at homeschool, and I can't be selfish with them anymore. It's off into the world they go. At least they're going together.

Just One More

2009-02-16T22:36:00.003-06:00

Because I just can't choose a favorite, here's one more gorgeous shot of my boy from Lacey's website. I'll never be able to choose which ones to frame once I get the disk!

3-Month Comparison

2009-02-14T18:48:00.008-06:00

Owen

Ari

Seth
Definitely not three of a kind.

3 Months

2009-02-13T11:53:00.006-06:00

Dear Seth Hayden,

Yesterday you turned three months old! We celebrated by going to Little Rock to the Children's Hospital there to have your skull looked at. And guess what? You are just fine. That is such a huge relief to Daddy and me. We thought there might be a problem with your skull sutures fusing - but no, you are healthy as can be! We are so, so happy.

When they weighed you yesterday, you were 16 pounds, 4 ounces. You are slowing down some, more in line with your brothers at 3 months. Also at 3 months, you are:

wearing a size-2 diaper, but not for long.
wearing a size 3 - 6 in clothing.
still sleeping in our room, in your bassinet.
going to bed around 9 PM, but still waking twice at night.
nursing pretty much exclusively, unless you're in the nursery at church.
smiling so much, and very, very ticklish.
cooing and talking back and forth with us.
the coolest toy in the house. Your older siblings think you hung the moon.
very, very mellow and tolerant of being poked, prodded, pulled on, and about anything else you are subjected to by the big kids.
a big fan of the bouncy seat and your play gym, but not so much a fan of the swing.
all smiles when it's Mama time. Your face says, "Hello, my Favorite Person!" which I love.
still blue-eyed, with light reddish hair. You haven't lost any hair yet.

You are such a chill little boy, pretty much happy to relax and hang out in someone's arms, or in your bouncy seat. I've never seen a baby more cherished by his big siblings - you are absolutely their favorite thing. Owen especially can't get enough of you, and he says, "I just love this baby," or, "I love the boy!" You are so indulgent of their fawning, and you let them get lots of squeezes in before you give them a little warning cry. You are the baby who I didn't know existed: happy to play quietly, happy to sit and look at me and listen to my singing or talking. Happy just to be. Content with life, and the love you are given constantly, and content to love in return. You are a gift to us, the gift that might not have been, and I am reminded every single day when I hear your little cry, or coo, that you are one of Life's Greatest Gifts. I am actually happy to hear from you when you wake up at night, because that's how awesome you are.

You are our fourth child, but there is no question that you are as special and as incredibly loved as the rest. I hope you never question that part. This family is just crazy about you, and you, well, you are the star.

Love,
Mama

Photographs by Lacey Kohl Photography

Best Show Ever!

2009-02-11T10:13:00.002-06:00

So, no takers on the best show ever contest, but it is ... drumroll please ...

The Flight of the Conchords.

So off-beat and quirky. I am watching it and rewatching it and watching it again and then going online and watching it. So funny. I know these guys do concerts and have CDs, but why this show hasn't jumped to network TV is beyond me. It's formatted like a comedy, but with two (or more) musical numbers in each episode. Very, very clever.

Here, for your viewing enjoyment, is my personal favorite (although it's hard to choose) from episode 1, season 1 - "The Prettiest Girl in the Room." I think my favorite part is when he seals the deal with his dance moves. Please to enjoy.

Best. Show. Ever.

2009-02-08T20:43:00.001-06:00

"Why are we still paying so much for sneakers when you got little kid slaves making them?"

Name it. Anyone?

Finished!

2009-02-07T14:35:00.003-06:00

Finally finished my second little doll quilt that I'm making as gifts - this one is fresh out of the dryer, in all of its wrinkly goodness, this morning.

It is a second windowpanes quilt, this time called Stained Glass. I quilted the colored squares in matching thread, because I thought the white thread would stand out too starkly against the solid darks. The green thread isn't a perfect match, but I am refusing to get hung up on that. I love the rest of it!

Well, she asked.

2009-02-06T19:09:00.001-06:00

Just told Eva the reason I get so many text messages is that I am very important. I think she bought it.

2009-02-02T13:54:00.005-06:00

Thanks so much, homeschool reading curriculum. Because today was definitely the day I wanted to explain to my 6-year old the difference between whine and wine. Nice one.

Vacation!

2009-01-30T11:42:00.007-06:00

Or at least, this week has felt like vacation! Keith's been home since Tuesday because of the ice storm - his office doesn't have electricity. So we've been hanging out at home, doing a little bit of work, but mostly being lazy. We've braved the ice twice to eat lunch out, just to beat the cabin fever. We did a little sledding in a laundry basket. And I've spent lots of time working on little quilty projects. I've finished one doll quilt and started another today. I like little projects that are done quickly! And these are gifts, so it's nice to finish them early.

Finished: Windowpanes - pink & brown

I really need to be cleaning house, since I'm helping host the Super Bowl parties this weekend, but my sewing machine calls! At least, it calls until Seth wakes up.

New project for today: Stained glass

Sucker!

2009-01-26T22:17:00.003-06:00

So Seth has started a new habit - cutest thing EVER - sucking his two middle fingers. He sucks mostly when he's asleep, or tired, but sometimes when he's awake. I absolutely, totally and utterly LOVE it. Sure, it'll be next to impossible to break him of it someday, if he keeps it up - but - SO. WORTH. IT.

Homeschool Co-op

2009-01-26T08:52:00.003-06:00

Well - the homeschool co-op went really well. The boys did wonderfully, and I enjoyed my time working in the nursery, which was really spent getting to know the other moms and hanging out with Seth. Owen made a pirate hat and brought home a CD of songs about the states and capitals ("Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Austin, Texas,Tallahassee, Flor-i-daaaaaa!"). Ari played on the playground and had a snack and only got into just a wee bit of trouble. I was really proud of them both. I'm glad we're involved.

If you are local and would like some information on the homeschool co-op, please email me at manicotti (at) hotmail (dot) com - I'd be happy to share. I'd rather do it privately than on the blog, since it does give away our exact physical location, and while I'm not that worried about internet stalkers, it doesn't hurt to be safe.

New School!

2009-01-22T10:09:00.002-06:00

Today the boys start classes at the local homeschool co-op. I think they are actually excited, which is a feat indeed. They will attend every Thursday for three hours - Ari to preschool (which includes gym time and crafts) and Owen to K-2 classes (Arkansas History, States and Capitals, and Pirates). And of course, Seth will be in the nursery, which is also where I will volunteer my time, since each family is required to help out in some manner. (Eva has Montessori on Tuesdays/Thursdays.) Hopefully it goes well today. Hopefully it will make the remainder of this school year more fun for Owen. I've enjoyed homeschooling him so much - I love our quiet time spent at the table together, just the two of us. And I totally feel like I have the time and energy to continue - but he is just so defiant and rebellious about it. Especially since this second semester started up - hardly a day goes by that he doesn't get into trouble at school because he is yelling or refusing to work. If this continues, he will have to go to public school next year. I just can't handle it. I haven't made a final decision yet, but he is sure making it rough to stick it out! I just know how much I'll miss him when he's gone all day.

The good news is that Ari will start next year, so if they go public, at least they'll go together. Same school, in back-to-back grades. But what will I do with myself without the two of them here all day?

I think his problem stems from the standard old issue of respecting other adults more than one's own parents - he knows my love is unconditional and he can act crazy and I will still love him. But I really think once he's in a classroom environment with an outside adult figure, he'll work harder to impress, and certainly he won't act the way he acts at home. He's not a bad kid at all, but he is certainly opinionated on the subject of school (to put it nicely). So anyway, I'm still debating at this point. Hopefully being involved with a homeschool co-op will change all of our perspectives.

Things I Am Crazy Loving Right Now

2009-01-20T15:11:00.005-06:00

2 Months

2009-01-14T12:33:00.009-06:00

Dear Seth,

On Monday, you turned 2 months old. Wow, time surely does fly. You are so close to losing your newborn look and feel, and turning into a real, honest to goodness infant. I am so sad to see you getting bigger! I wish I could keep you here, like this, forever. But time, it marches on, so we roll with it.

At 2 months, you are:

smiling and cooing, especially for Mama, Daddy, and Owen
wearing 3 to 6 month clothing and a size 2 diaper
sleeping on your back and side, in your own bassinet, in our room
eating 4 to 5 ounces per pumped bottle, or nursing, 6 to 8 times each day
going to bed around 10 PM and waking once in the night, then getting up for the day around 8 AM - although you do sometimes sleep through the night (yay!)
enjoying your little playmat, smiling and talking to the toys
not a fan of the swing - intolerable, I tell you!
going to bed awake, and drifting to sleep on your own
14 pounds, 14 ounces and 24 inches long (off the chart on both counts)
sweet and mellow, and so lovely to look at, with light blue eyes and reddish-golden brown hair

That's you in a nutshell, really, sweet and mellow, although you certainly have your moments of hysteria. I knew having another baby would be tough, and it is, but you make it so, so worth it. I am so glad you are here!

Love,

Mama

Target

2009-01-14T09:44:00.002-06:00

Target, you are a greedy mistress.

New Camera Love

2009-01-10T15:13:00.005-06:00

Owen and Seth:

Little pink pearls:

Because baseball bores me

2009-01-10T12:30:00.000-06:00

"Today was an especially good day for Titans quarterback Seth Foster, who threw for 236 yards and rushed for over one hundred, including three touchdown passes and one rushing touchdown."

A mom can dream, right?

Baby Gazing

2009-01-09T10:02:00.004-06:00

I feel as though my blog has come under serious neglect. Which is too bad, really, considering I received a fantastic new camera for Christmas, and have taken many more pictures lately. If only I had some type of hands-free baby-holding device that could also hands-free make dinner and wash the dishes, perhaps I could find my way back to this space more often.

Unfortunately (or, more aptly, fortunately), my days are taken with a little chubber, who I want to hold and snuggle and breathe in while I can, before he's off, chasing after bigger (cooler) brothers, busy playing and building and having a day of his own. For now, he's just mine, and he just wants to be mine, and I love it. As he emerges from his newborn grogginess, his eyes find my face, and his ears know my voice, and I am overwhelmed yet again by the primality of birthing a child, a piece of yourself torn away and made into a new person. He is fresh and clean, newfallen snow, and it's my job to both protect him from the world and to make him fall in love with it, all at once. And I spend my days looking at him, rubbing his belly or his head, washing him, nursing him, cooing and singing, patting, bouncing, but mostly looking. Just looking right into his eyes, letting him look back, recognizing him, learning him.

What I am not spending my days doing: cleaning. Dishes are piled high, there is hardly a square inch of clean counter space in the kitchen, and the bathrooms are all three beckoning for a major scrubdown. Laundry threatens, and the floors need a good vaccum. But I've chosen to indulge myself right now, with one more cup of coffee, and one more snuggle with that little newborn baby, before he outgrows and outruns me. It's so, so good.

Bringing Home Baby - Part 3

2009-01-08T10:56:00.008-06:00

The final chapter -

They worked on the baby for quite a while, during which time I received a couple of stitches and chatted with the doctor. I was concerned that we didn't hear him screaming, but eventually he did let out some pitiful little whimpers. They brought him to me for just a minute before they took him to the nursery for observation - he was a hot little mess. His head was grossly misshapen, and he was so swollen and bruised. His right arm was not moving. But he was the chubbiest, sweetest little thing I ever laid eyes on (at least, since the last time I had a baby!). We didn't know at the time, but we wouldn't see him again for over 6 hours.

The hospital pediatrician came to talk to us later in the day. He told us that the baby was not breathing correctly - he was breathing very fast, and very labored. He also said he believed that Seth's ribs were broken on his left side. He said he detected a heart murmur. He said the right arm was not moving, due to nerve damage during the birth, when the right shoulder was stuck. He gave us a very worrisome report on our little babe, whom we hadn't even seen since he was born. We did eventually get to see Seth that night, for about half an hour. He was very sore, and every movement or jostle caused him to cry out. His head was a mess of bruising and swelling, and the right arm and shoulder area seemed to bother him. We reluctantly gave him back to the nursery nurse, as she had to monitor his blood sugar through the night. By the time we woke up the next morning, they had moved him to the NICU nursery.

His breathing hadn't stabilized, and they put him on oxygen. We went to visit him in the NICU nursery, and he had the little tubes in his nose. It was so sad looking. Overnight they had also done a second chest x-ray, and told us that they no longer believed he had any broken ribs. We were so glad to hear this! The pediatrician told us that he thought the baby would be staying at least 3 more days, which was disappointing to us, but not too bad considering how rough his entry into the world was. Over the next few days, they also inserted a feeding tube, which they taped to his face. They didn't want him swallowing, since he was breathing so rapidly - they were afraid he would inhale liquids into his lungs, which would cause even more complications. He seemed to hate the feeding tube, and I have to say, when I went to visit him and saw the tube for the first time, I sat down and cried. He looked absolutely awful, just covered in tubes and wires. We were able to visit him in the NICU nursery, but not really spend time with him. It really broke my heart for parents of babies who stay in NICUs long-term, who are worse off than Seth was, who maybe don't have the hope we had. I can't imagine what they go through every day.

In the end, Seth stayed in the NICU for 5 days - we brought him home on Monday, the 17th. I stayed with him, although he wasn't released to my room until Sunday evening. On Friday the pediatrician told us that Seth had a blood infection, and started him on an agressive round of antibiotics. On Saturday, we were told that a second culture had been done, and there was no blood infection after all. We were also told that neither the pediatrician nor the nurse could even hear a heart murmur anymore. In the end, he had a rather nasty cephlahematoma, and the nerve damage in his right shoulder. All of his other problems had disappeared. He's a little miracle baby, I tell you. The damage to his right shoulder is called Erb's Palsy. He has full movement of his right hand (fingers and wrist) and some movement in his elbow; however, he does not have any movement in his shoulder, meaning he cannot lift or control his right arm. We've been told by several doctors that this type of nerve damage, common in hard births with large babies, will heal itself in time. We are waiting for that healing to come! Otherwise, he is a perfect little baby boy.

It was an incredibly difficult labor, and a long and emotional hospital stay. I was so happy to finally check out of that hospital and bring him home! I can't imagine going through a birth like that again, so very traumatic for both of us. But we made it through, no drugs, just as we planned! And we have a wonderful, gorgeous little snuggly pile of a boy who we could not possibly love any more.

Seth's Bestest Christmas Toy

2009-01-02T22:13:00.006-06:00

So Seth, you got a new playmat for Christmas?

With lots of bright colors and jingly noises and a little baby mirror?

And how do you feel about your new playmat, Seth?

You love it? You really, really love it?

Yep, he loves it.

Merry Christmas from the Fosters!

2008-12-24T11:58:00.002-06:00

And a very happy New Year!

Now for some outtakes:

Anyone acting like a grouchy turd all day, just sit there and mock me with your eyes.

2008-12-22T23:43:00.003-06:00

Yep, thought so.

Bringing Home Baby - Part 2

2008-12-21T21:02:00.003-06:00

(Part 2 of the birth story, with kind of scary picture of baby included)

The drive to the hospital, OH MY WORD. Unbearable. I had no way to move my body around in the way it needed to move to handle the intense contractions. It took us about 20 minutes to make the trip, and it was a really, really hard drive. I guess that's the downside of laboring at home for a long while - having to make the drive to the hospital in active (or in my case, transitional) labor. We arrived at the hospital and left the car in the fire lane before heading to the 5th floor. We made a few stops in between for contractions, and finally we made it to L&D. Oh, then the fun really began! I had absolutely no idea how far dilated I was at this point, but the nurses seemed to know something I didn't, and immediately started bustling around, five or six of them, setting us up in a room, getting me hooked onto several monitors, and bringing in scores of paperwork (which, honestly, I'm signing consents without even looking at the paper or my own signature, as I struggle through contractions). One of the nurses did an internal exam and told us I was dilated to an 8. An 8! This was wonderful news to me, because I had absolutely reached my pain tolerance level (or so I thought). They called my doctor, who promised to be there in 6 minutes, and asked me not to push. I told them I wouldn't, but I actually did a little bit on the really bad contractions. I just felt like I had to, and I didn't figure the baby would be sliding out onto the floor anytime soon. The nurses seemed very concerned that the baby would arrive before the doctor, and made me lay back in the bed, just in case.

I can't describe what these contractions felt like to anyone who hasn't done this before, but it was excruciating. This was the absolute worst part of the labor - being in the bed, waiting on the doctor to arrive so I could push. I did notice the nurses setting up the birthing tools and bringing in the bassinet, and this is always a good sign.

My doctor arrived, true to his word, in a matter of minutes. It was around 4 PM, and he immediately had me start pushing. The baby hadn't dropped at all throughout my pregnancy, and was still very high, so I knew we might be in for the long haul on the pushing. I had a very hard time figuring out where to push, and the first few pushes didn't advance the baby at all. I kept asking the doctor, "Is this working?" and he kept telling me no. Talk about discouraging! I should have quit asking. Eventually I got it figured out, but the pain was horrible, and I had a moment of sheer panic - as in, let me up, I can't do this, let's just forget it, okay? Eventually, after about half an hour of very hard pushing, they strapped some oxygen on me. And after a little more pushing, the doctor said he could see a head. Then they head was out. Then ... well, then nothing else happened as I pushed. The baby was stuck, with his head and left shoulder out, and his right shoulder still in the birth canal. The nurses were telling me to PUSH! HARDER! MORE! And I swear, I really was, but that baby was not moving. The doctor didn't panic, but I felt like some of the nurses might be starting to. This worried me. The doctor grabbed the baby's head and one protruding shoulder and rotated him 180 degrees trying to dislodge his right shoulder. A nurse climbed into my bed and pushed on my stomach. This scared me, but mostly I was just in absolute agony and wanted this over with. And then, it was over, and he was out. The doctor asked Keith to cut the cord, quickly, because they needed to get the baby to the warmer and to oxygen as soon as possible. Keith cut the cord, and blood flew all over the room, onto our camera and onto Keith's shirt and in his hair. The baby was rushed to the warmer, and he didn't make noise for the longest time. He looked very bad - noticably limp and blue. The doctor didn't seem worried, so I didn't panic, luckily, although his APGAR scores were 2 and 6. They were all gasping over his size, speculating and making guesses at his weight and length. My doctor guessed 11 pounds, 3 ounces, and the nurses were saying 23 or 24 inches long. They weighed him, and called out a number in grams, which was meaningless to me until the doctor translated for me - 11 pounds, 11 ounces, and 22 inches long. Unbelievable. I never dreamed he'd be so huge! He was born at 4:52 PM.

(to be continued )

Seth Hayden: 1 Month

2008-12-16T18:56:00.006-06:00

Last Friday, Seth turned a whole month old. He had his 1-month checkup today. He is 13 pounds even, and 22 inches long. He is in the 100th percentile for weight, 90th percentile for head circumference, 75th percentile for height, and 100th percentile for being gorgeous. He is still our precious chubbin, gaining 1 pound, 5 ounces since birth (and still the same length). How does this compare to my other boys? I wondered. At his 2-month checkup, Owen was 13 pounds, 4 ounces and 23.25 inches. At his 2-month checkup, Ari was 13 pounds, 1 ounce and 23.25 inches. Dear Seth, you are huge. That is all.

Seth keeps a very regular schedule for most of the day. He eats every three hours, sometimes stretching it to 4 or 5 hours at night, and his cranky period is between 4:30 PM and 6:30 PM (very conveniently timed while I'm trying to make dinner). His alert and happy time is between 10 PM and midnight (very conveniently timed while I am trying to SLEEP). This is when he gives us all his smiles, which are still few, and I am always greedy for more!

He's eating between 3 and 4 ounces per feeding, and I am pumping around the clock, so he's getting breastmilk even though he refuses to nurse.

His eyes are still blue, not a dark blue, but a medium blue, and his hair is by far the lightest of any of my babies. It also has a reddish tint. I think he quite favors Owen as a newborn, which makes me wonder if his eyes will stay blue. He's also very fair, where Ari was already darker complected as a newborn.

I've been reading my archives a lot lately, especially the posts right after I had Ari. I almost forgot how bad I felt after he was born. I went through so much guilt, and postpartum depression, and just plain old loneliness. My life felt so foreign and out of control, going from one kid to two. Things are so different this time around. I don't know why, if it's just that I'm older now, and more relaxed, or because we're home around loving friends and family, who knows - but this time around with Seth, everything feels different. He just brings me joy. I'm happy to see him, even in the middle of the night. I can't get enough of him. I enjoy his company. He is so incredibly loved and cherished by all of us - he's like the baby rock star of this family, especially as far as his siblings are concerned. They just love him like mad. As do I - the honeymoon is definitely not over, which I am so grateful for.

After his rough trip getting here, the hospital stay, the subsequent worry, and just the joy and relief of getting him home, I am amazed at his perserverance. I love him, and that's all there is.

Bringing Home Baby: Part 1

2008-12-14T22:58:00.002-06:00

I've finally gotten around to typing up Seth's birth story. I do this mostly for myself, and for him some day, because it's important to me to remember all of the details. It's rather long this time, so I'm breaking it up into several posts. Read or skip, at your discretion.

Wednesday, November 12th, I woke up in the foulest mood imaginable. (Exhibit A: See my post of that date.) I was crampy and exhuasted and just irritable in general. I drank my coffee, and told Owen that school was delayed for an hour that day because I figured it was my due date, perhaps I should pack those hospital bags (procrastinate much?). So I gathered everything on my very long list, and packed two bags - one for clothes and toiletries, and the other bag which I called the "Comfort Bag" which housed my birthing items such as essential oils, rice heating pack, water bottles, snacks and so forth. Then Owen and I finished his school work for the day, and it was noon. Also on today's agenda, besides packing hospital bags: shave legs in case of labor. So into the shower I went, and about halfway through, I had a pretty decent contraction. And at the end of it, I felt a leak of fluid. Interesting, I thought to myself, but I was in the shower after all, and how can one be sure if one's water has indeed broken while taking a shower? So I finished up my shower and got out - and there was more fluid. And contractions. My thought was, FINALLY! And on my due date. Very exciting, but very scary, as this is, after all, my first attempt into the world of natural birth. So, I made some calls. First I called Keith at work, who very calmly said he was on his way home. Then I called my mom, who had a 2-hour drive to watch the kids while I was at the hospital. She was much more excited (now that's the response I was looking for!) and got in her car and headed over. We had planned to labor at home for as long as possible, so the 2-hour drive didn't worry me. But, as back up, I called a few friends and let them know that the Big Event was here, and that in case of emergency, I might need their help with the kidlets. And then, during one of my phone calls, my water broke. Like, really, REALLY broke, in the big dramatic gush you see in the movies. 12:20 PM. I happened to still be in the bathroom after my shower, and thank goodness, because that would have been such a mess.

It took about 10 minutes after my water broke for the contractions to start in earnest. I went from zero contractions to the kind where I'm having to stop and focus through. Keith arrived home and we managed to get lunch together for the kids. After they were fed, I retired to our bedroom on my birthing ball and tried to time my contractions. There was absolutely no pattern to them at all. I drank about 10 bottles of water, swayed and counted, and bounced up and down. Keith was a faithful partner, but his job seemed to be mostly just getting fresh water and keeping me company. I didn't use any of our hard-learned Lamaze techniques. It just didn't feel right. But he did wonderful at loading the car, putting in the infant seat, and texting friends and family. He did try a few times to either rub my back, or count, but was quickly rebuffed. This was something better handled in my head, it seemed. So labor continued, contractions getting harder, until my mom arrived right around 2:30 PM. And although we had already decided to labor at home as long as possible, I think Keith was starting to get nervous. He suggested we leave as soon as my mom arrived. So this meant I had to put on pants and walk, two very difficult things in my condition. It was around 3 PM when we finally got into the car and out the driveway.

(to be continued)

3 Down

2008-12-10T10:55:00.003-06:00

Owen Davis lost his third tooth Monday. It's been dangling for a couple of weeks now, and we've tried to pull it, but he will have no part of that. Finally he pulled it himself at a Christmas party we attended Monday night. He was very proud of himself for about one second, and then he started crying big tears when he saw the blood. His other front tooth is loose now. I can't believe his perfect little baby teeth are falling out. His entire look is going to change when he gets his big new front teeth. My little baby is growing up. I can't stand it!

Laundry can wait

2008-12-09T09:46:00.001-06:00

Uh oh, pretty sure I just scored the baby's very first smile. You know what this means: a whole entire day of stupid faces and fart noises.

Life in general

2008-12-06T12:23:00.005-06:00

Finally, Sethy's cord fell off on Thursday, and he got his first real tub bath on Friday. He was not a fan of the tub and the wet and the washing, how dare we. Is it just me, or is he gourd-shaped? Just look at that big old belly. LOVE IT.

We made Christmas cookies on Friday, part of our annual holiday fun. It took a lot longer this year, and was slightly more frustrating, what with a baby hanging off me while I mixed and rolled, but we managed to finish some very frosted and very sprinkled confections. And although large quantities of both red and green food coloring were invoked, there was no permanant damage to anything or anyone.

Should make a bumper sticker.

2008-12-06T12:18:00.002-06:00

My 3-week old can beat up your 3-week old.

Seriously, what's the weight limit on these bouncy seats? He already stretches almost end to end. At three weeks old. Gotta love the Weeks giant gene.

But it's so cold.

2008-12-05T12:53:00.003-06:00

It is true that Seth has a hard time distinguishing between a simple diaper change and the actual, literal ending of the world as we know it.

Son, this is a diaper change. This is not the end of the world.

Feeling Festive

2008-12-03T11:50:00.002-06:00

I know it's that time of year again when I've pulled out my Christmas mugs. Coffee out of this mug just makes me feel festive.

We got the tree and decorations up this past weekend, and I love the twinkling lights. It's not so bad to get up in the middle of the night with Seth when he and I can snuggle on the couch beneath these lights.

I'm trying to figure out gifts for the kidlets this year. The boys ask for everything they see on every commercial, and Eva will only ask for a map. I have no idea where she even learned what a map is, or does, and I have no idea why she would want one. So I'm scouring the Internets to find some gifties that will actually be loved and used. It's a challenge every year, because they have so much already. They are blessed little babies. And we are blessed to have them.

How to make little boys laugh

2008-12-01T18:01:00.002-06:00

Put Daddy's underwear on the baby! You can get laughs all night from this one. And, it's even better because Daddy tucks his white t-shirts into his underwear, too! (Don't tell him I told you!)

Another week is upon me. Seth will be three weeks old on Wednesday. In three weeks, I have not yet managed to get my life back under control. The essentials are in place: food, clothing, bathing, sleeping is all happening on a fairly regular basis for the kids. I am eating, and usually showering, and sometimes sleeping. The things that are really sliding on me: housekeeping, homeschooling, Seth-free time with the big kids. I have days where I feel completely out of control in my own home, because it's just NOT CLEAN. And those are inevitably the days where Seth wants human hands upon him at all times DO NOT PUT ME DOWN WOMAN! If I need a nap, he doesn't. If I can't sleep right now, he only wants to sleep. We are two ships crossing in the night when it comes to sleep. So, sleep is at a premium. But he is still a wonderful little chubber who I find joy in just looking at, so I am coping.

We started back hardcore with Owen's schooling today. We were off for 2 days the week Seth was born, and all of last week for the holiday. Today we are back on the horse, and it wasn't so bad. Even holding the baby, which I had to do for most of the time, we managed to finish everything on the list. I love sitting down with Owen and spending this time with him. I have no idea what next year holds in the way of schooling - Ari will start kindergarten, and I don't know if I can handle schooling both of them with a little baby around who will be mobile at that time. I mentioned this to Owen and he seemed upset that he might have to go to "real" school. We'll just have to see.

On a more fun note, I had a friend over last week who had a little boy on October 20, so he is 5 weeks old in this picture, and Seth is 1 week. Seth outweighs him by 2 pounds. But aren't they cute together? What does the future hold for them, I wonder? (Sethy is the cheeks on the right, in case you weren't sure.)

Commenting

2008-11-30T09:23:00.002-06:00

I do usually enjoy receiving comments on this blog, but I would ask that you do your best to not leave anonymous comments. Even if you don't have a Blogger account, you can type your name onto a comment. This is especially important when I receive rude or hateful comments that I need to address directly to the commenter, which has recently occurred, and because I don't have the information of the commenter, I will simply delete the comment.

Going forward, if you have something to say, don't be afraid to put your name on it. Otherwise, perhaps you shouldn't say it at all.

Pictures

2008-11-24T19:58:00.005-06:00

I know, I am wimping out on posting by just putting up pictures, but life right now is better told in pictures than words, because my brain is sapped. Truly sapped. In a really good way, but still.

Last night the boys came upstairs in these ridiculous costumes and proclaimed that they were "Mr. Butterscotch and Mr. Rogers!" I'm not sure who was who, but they do love to strike a pose:

The newbie and his adoring fans:

Also, Daddy turned 28 yesterday. We celebrated very small, with a cake and our four babes. He looks happy, doesn't he?

And one more, just because I can't get enough of this little bundle:

And for the record, I do make the kids wear pants some of the time. I really do. But they fight it, and I figure it's less laundry for me, anyways!

Male Bonding

2008-11-20T14:45:00.006-06:00

I love seeing all these boys together, including the biggest boy, Daddy.

He almost outweighs Ari, but Ari still loves to hold him.

Owen and Seth watch an episode of Scooby Doo together.

I love, love, LOVE seeing my husband with a new baby. He turns from rough and tumble fun-time Daddy to sweet, baby-talking, kissy face Daddy who giggles and smooches all over his baby (he would just love that description of himself). Since we brought home our first newborn, he has always spent time in the kangaroo snuggle (chest-to-chest time). It's his special ritual. He is such a neat Daddy.

And here is an old picture of Owen's chest-to-chest time. I think Sethy favors Owen more than Ari right now, although those cheeks - those CHEEKS! - are all his own.

Homecoming

2008-11-18T12:51:00.003-06:00

We finally arrived home last night with Baby Seth in tow. The night went pretty well. He is a good sleeper, waking to eat about every 4 hours. I can't say I'm happy to be reintroduced to the breast pump, but right now it's what works. His little shoulder and head are so very sore to the touch, and he screams when I try to position him to nurse. So we're pumping bottles for him, and he's eating like a little piggie. He had his first bath today and he smells so good! You can see his face and head are still a little swollen and bruised, but he's just lovely and cheeky and we love him!

The Day Has Arrived

2008-11-15T11:15:00.006-06:00

Around 5% of babies are born on their due date.

I win!

Seth Hayden Foster was born at 4:52 PM on November 12, 2008. He was 11 pounds, 11 ounces and 22 inches long.

He had a few complications from birth trauma (he was delivered vaginally, and it wasn't an easy trip down the chute, let me tell you). His first APGAR score was a 2, then a 6. His breathing was very rapid so they put him on oxygen and some sort of oxygen monitor. He's on an IV right now, and a feeding tube. We are really hopeful that he'll be home with us in a few days, once he figures out how to slow down his breathing. He's already doing way, way better than he was a few days ago. Initially they told us he had some broken ribs, nerve damage in his shoulder, a heart murmur, and a blood infection. Today they told us that the only problem he actually has is some nerve damage in his right shoulder (which got stuck while he was being born), and the rapid breathing. We are so, so grateful that his other problems seem to have healed right up. We've just been praying and praying that everything works out well, and although he has to stay in the hospital longer, it seems like he will be just fine. I'm officially discharged, but we've moved into a courtesy room on his floor so we can stay close to him. He's in the ICU nursery so he can't be moved, but we go and visit several times a day. We snuck away home today to see the other kids and do some laundry.

I have lots more pictures, but we left the camera at the hospital while we stopped in at the house, so I have only this one shot for now off of Keith's phone. Suffice to say, he is quite the little chubber, and those cheeks are DELICIOUS. The outfits I took to the hospital are both a 3-month size, so they should fit him for now. The nursery had to track down some special diapers for him, as their usual newborn diapers didn't fit. How in the world he grew so large, I have no idea. I actually gained less weight with him than the other boys, but he takes the prize for big baby. My doctor was right all along about growing a monster in there - but even he was surprised when Seth was born. It was a new personal record for my doctor, he said.

This little baby is just amazing and we are nuts for him. He's been through a heck of a lot from being born so big, just all kinds of yucky tubes sticking out of him, but he's a trooper, and I cannot wait to get him home.

Oh, and that whole delivering naturally thing that I was so worried about? Yeah, did it. It sucked, but we did it. Go vagina.

More on his birth/delivery/updates and more pictures when I get home with him, I hope very, very soon.

Due Date

2008-11-12T08:20:00.002-06:00

Woke up in WORST. MOOD. EVER.

Done being pregnant.

Full moon

2008-11-10T16:30:00.002-06:00

My Mema reminded me that the full moon is the 13th (Thursday). Maybe this will convince my tenant to evict? Maybe he's part werewolf? All good points. I'm looking forward to it.

No news is depressing news

2008-11-10T13:43:00.003-06:00

Went in for another check-up today with the OB - he said the baby is actually higher than he was last week. Nice one, little baby. Nice one.

Because really, why just be 40 weeks pregnant, when you could be 41?

Nesting: You're ... definitely doing it.

2008-11-06T14:28:00.005-06:00

Freezer meals made: 5
(lasagnas: 2; vegetable soup: 2, beef enchiladas:1)

Loaves of homemade bread baked: 2 (edited: 4)

Loaves of banana bread baked: 2

Dozens of cookies baked: 3 (number of cookies eaten: infinity)

Pounds of hamburger meat browned/frozen: 5

Pot roasts currently cooking with trimmings: 1

Years since we've had pot roast: 5, at least

Babies born: 0

39 weeks, 2 days

2008-11-06T12:16:00.003-06:00

Things you don't want to hear at your 39-week checkup:

"I'm concerned he's getting to be a monster."

"I'd say you're dilated to about a 2. I'll see you next week!"

A 2. Seriously. Last week, he said 3. I'm actually regressing in dilation (or he's just crappy with numbers), while this baby (he actually called him a monster) gets larger and larger.

My doctor will be out of state this weekend at the Texas Tech - Oklahoma game, so I'm hoping that will be just the trigger we need to get this baby boy to let go and come on home. Surely if my doctor's gone, I'll go into labor. That's just Murphy's Law. Right?