Dear baby

Things have calmed down since we are now on break from this thing, you will soon learn about it and I'm sorry, we call school. You "kind of" experienced Christmas even if it was in utero, and from the best I can tell you LOVED it!!! You even got gifts even though your name was technically available to be drawn, and you couldn't give anything in return - other than the anticipation of your wonderful presence.

You are still moving and moving and moving.......all that I have read says that it should be harder for you to move around because you are getting bigger and space in your "house" is limited, however you haven't slowed down one bit! Your dad and I love resting and feeling you move and trying to guess what part of you that you are exercising.....so far we aren't very good at guessing.

This week: you are still gaining weight (about half a pound a week), and you could grow up to another full inch this week. Your pokes and kicks feel pretty sharp these days. (There's less fluid to cushion the blows.) Antibodies are being passed from ne to you as you continue to develop your own fetal immune system, which will come in handy once you are outside the womb and fending off all sorts of germs.

It is about 7 weeks until your debut, and your dad and I cannot tell you how very excited we are to meet you. You consume each of every one of our thoughts, and we are absolutely giddy with anticipation for the day you are here. We undoubtedly have those moments when we are scared, nervous, or questioning what kind of parents we will be but in spite of all of that we know that God purposed you in our lives for this exact time. We also know that you will never lack for anything and in fact we will have to hold back on all that we want to show you, teach you, and have you experience. Always know that from before we even knew you were growing inside this belly of mine you were wanted - you will always be wanted and loved.

Can't wait to meet you!!
Mommy and daddy

Christmas cheer.....

I will admit that I am a slacker when it comes to taking pictures at things/times that I SHOULD take pictures of/at. Case in point: Thanksgiving. I have no pictures of any of the things I cooked, any of the family time, or any of the eating festivities. I always tell myself, "Don't forget to take pictures at (blank)..." but I always do....

I assure you that our Thanksgiving was great, the food was delicious, and time with our families was also great - there is just no proof - you will have to take my word for it!!

HOWEVER!!! I WILL do better for Christmas.........so without further ado........here's the TREE!!

Dear Baby (From Dad)

Dear Baby:

Your mom told me last night, you are going to be a dad – I was kind of surprised. I know, I know, should it really be a surprise now? I am not ready to be a dad. I don’t know how to be a dad. All of these things may or may not be true, but I promise I am going to be the best dad I can be. This week marks 10 weeks, give or take a few days, until your arrival. I think that we are ready for your arrival – your crib is ready, your closet is packed full of clothes that you are going to look super cute in, your Cadillac car seat is waiting for you to take your first ride home in, and your changing table is stocked with diapers, wipes, and all kinds of other things that I am not really sure what we are supposed to do with. I am sure that we will figure it all. I know that we will figure it all out.

My favorite time of the day is bedtime. This is when I have my chance to connect with you. When your mom and I are in bed, I touch your “house” (mom’s belly) and without fail I can feel your strong kicks, punches, flips, and other little movements. We count your kicks together to make sure you are strong and healthy. Every night as we do this, I pray for you. I pray that you will be healthy, happy, successful, and smart… my prayers for you are endless. I don’t think you know this, but I have your life planned out. I don’t know if any of our plans will work out, but if you only know one thing, know that your mom and I love you more than you will ever understand. You are a blessing from our Heavenly Father and we are thankful every moment of the day that you have been sent to this earth for your mom and I to care for you, nurture you, teach you, pray for you, support you, and love you as we begin our family.

My love for your mom has grown beyond measure during the past 30 weeks. I can only imagine the love I will have for her as we raise you together. It is my hope that you will someday find a helpmate that will bless you in the same ways that your mother has blessed me. Your mom is an amazing woman…strong, intelligent, educated, successful, spiritual, funny, insightful, driven, and passionate….I can only hope that you are the woman, wife, mother, and daughter that your mom is. I don’t need to tell you these things. You will learn all of these things as you spend your days being nurtured by, cared for, and prepared for life by your mom.

Anytime your mom and I are driving somewhere in the car together we listen to a song from a Primary CD. I don’t think there is a time that we don’t hear the words of the song and become emotional as we think about your arrival and the beginning of our own eternal family.

The Family Is of God

Our Father has a family. It’s me!It’s you, all others too: we are His children.He sent each one of us to earth, through birth,To live and learn here in fam’lies.

A father’s place is to preside, provide,To love and teach the gospel to his children. A father leads in fam’ly prayer to shareTheir love for Father in Heaven.

A mother’s purpose is to care, prepare,To nurture and to strengthen all her children. She teaches children to obey, to pray,To love and serve in the fam’ly.

I’ll love and serve my family and beA good example to each fam’ly member. And when I am a mom or dad, so glad,I’ll help my fam’ly remember:

[Chorus]God gave us families to help us become what He wants us to be—This is how He shares His love, for the fam’ly is of God.
Words and music: Matthew Neeley

We are eagerly awaiting your arrival little one. I don’t know much about what the days and years will hold, but I can promise you this, you are loved beyond measure by your mom and I. We will keep praying for you and preparing for you as February 14th draws closer.

Love forever and always,
Dad & Mom

Top 10: Gifts NOT to give at a baby shower

At the risk of sounding ungrateful ----- and downright rude --- I will continue with this blog!!

10) Toys in boxes that have been opened and are sticky from price tag removal.

9) Gender specific clothes when you don't know the gender

8) Nursery decor (unless you KNOW what the nursery looks like)

7) Unsolicited Advice

6) Books on weight loss

5) Pacifers/bottles not in some type of packaging

4) Stretch mark cream

3) Used, mangy, nappy, dirty bears

2) Outfits re-gifted - especially when those outfits have been given by people in attendance at the shower

1) EXPIRED BABY FORMULA!!!!!!

We didn't get ALL of these gifts - but we did get some.......from one "person"........Thank you for almost giving us the gift of explosive diarrhea. Back 'atchya!!

The pressure is gone.....

We felt a tremendous amount of pressure in naming the baby ......... I mean, a name is super important, and everyone knows you by your name. If your name is too hard to pronounce this will haunt you every day of your life. If your name is too weird people think you are a freak. If your name doesn't "fit" you people are off put by this (think: seinfeld epsiode where the lady has an asian last name but isn't asian and this really disturbs George's mom).

Here are a few quotes that put's EXTRA pressure on one trying to name a child:

* A name is the blueprint of the thing we call character. You ask, What's in a name? I answer, Just about everything you do. ~ Morris Mandel (author, psychologist, & educator)

* The name we give to something shapes our attitude to it - Katherine Patterson (author)

*Always end the name of your child with a vowel, so that when you yell the name will carry. - Bill Cosby (comedian)

HOWEVER - we stared the task right in the face and have decided (barring any surprises on the day of HER birth that is!!) -

The name we have chosen is.........DRUM ROLL PLEASE.........

ELLIE: (greek) Noble, exalted, shining light

Also note it ends with a vowel!!

Showers of Blessings!!!

Nov 15: After our SUPER busy weekend we headed to Fort Sumner for a Baby Shower that Justin's mom's best friend, Joan, was the SUPER hostesses for. She recruited 14 other great women from our hometown and threw us a wonderful shower!! It was truly a blessing to see all of the hard work, blood, sweat and tears that went into organizing this project. We want to thank EVERYONE who had a hand in it -from those who organized, came, gave a gift, and even those who simply thought of us on this day - we thank you!!!

We headed to Fort Sumner in time to stop and eat at the Clines Corner Cafe, which we discovered a few weeks back has some great food! Then we headed the rest of the way for the shower.....

Here is a shot of some of the delicious treats!!

The BEAUTIFUL cake!!

Here we are before cutting into the cake - Notice the 6 month pregnant "glow"

Here is a glimpse into some of the gifts:

Super cute!!

Little baby bootie's filled with Cry baby candies!

We got a ton of gifts and drove back with the Explorer packed to the max!!! We headed home and the Tornows had left with the exception of Mike who stayed with us because he had a meeting the following morning. So when we arrived we put him to work unloading all of our goodies. I did manage to get it all organized and in the baby's room (that's about all I worked on for a few days!).

THANK YOU EVERYONE!!!!!

On Fire!!!

Between school, clinicals, and the holidays we have been super swamped! So we have some catching up to do in this blog-o-sphere.

Nov 13: We went to our first Fire Side, which was the Fire Side the BYU football team was hosting the night before their game against UNM. We met the Tornows there and had a really great time. I was a little hesitant to go because I wasn't sure how long it was going to last and sitting for long periods of time really does a number on my bum. We took the risk and went and boy were we blessed. The BYU players sang a few hymns, some of the players shared a talk, and we had great fellowship with our pals.

Two of the talks in particular touched my heart. The first one was by Manase Tonga - who had a bit of trouble at BYU some time back and was placed on academic probation which resulted in him being redshirted in 2008. Subsequently he had to leave the university all together and had to reapply for admission. He shared about this hardship and likened it to quick sand, and shared about the fact that things usually start off small (perhaps undetectable) such as missing one class, sleeping in late a few too many times, then skipping assignments, etc....Such is our life - It's easy to spot the BIG problems rumbling down at us, but its the smaller problems we miss and that we blow off but in the end the snowball effect of it all ends up overwhelming us and taking us down. He mentioned a quote by LaVell Edwards that said (something to the effect of) that the greatest thing in life to have is options. We maintain our options by living righteously and choosing the right. We will all stumble and fall but thankfully we also have a Heavenly Father that loves and forgives us.

The second talk was by Holly Mendenhall who focused on encouraging women to also think about their choices and where those choices can take them through the course of their lives. She also shared about marriage and the hard work it takes to maintain a marriage, which was refreshing to hear someone talk about hardships and the overcoming of them in a marriage. Marriages are not designed to be perfect, however with hard work, love, and dedication to one another they can be great blessings!!


Nov 14: We went to the BYU vs. UNM game and had pretty good seats - The Tornows met us there midway through the game, as their daughter and son had football and soccer games galore over this weekend!!! After the game we all headed to PF Changs for their son's birthday dinner! After that Mike, Justin, myself and two of their kiddos headed to the UNM basketball game. We had an absolute BLAST!! Here are the pics I managed to get:

COSMO!!!

Oh yeah...... BYU won the football game and UNM won the basketball game - Just in case you were wondering ;)

Dear baby....

Now we are at week 28 and you are growing so big and long!! You kick, punch, twirl, spin, rock & roll like mad, but I love every minute of it! We went to see your doctor this week and heard your little heartbeat and she told us about making sure we count your kicks (8 in 2 hours twice a day). I asked her, "Is there such a thing as kicking TOO much" because you kick 8 times in a few minutes much less 2 hours!!! Our favorite time of day is at bedtime when we sit and feel you move - what a wonder you are!!

Here is what the website says about you: Your baby is settling into the proper position for birth, with his head facing downward. Your little work in progress is now about 2.5 pounds and almost 16 inches long. She's busy adding new skills such as blinking to an already impressive repertoire of tricks like coughing, sucking, hiccuping, and taking practice breaths. Your baby's sleep now includes the REM (rapid eye movement) phase — and that means she could be dreaming already. Though her lungs are nearly fully mature your baby still has plenty of growing to do.

Each day that passes we grow more and more excited to meet you, love you, hold you and take care of you. While we know that our lives will forever change, and the way things have been will never be the same again, we are still far more excited at the prospect of how wonderfully you will change us and our lives. So keep up the good work with the growing and moving!! In 12 short weeks (or so.....)we will meet face to tiny face.

Love you forever,

Mommy and Daddy

To come.....

We had a SUPER busy weekend and I have a ton to post and blog about, but that will come this weekend when it is hopefully a little slower!!

Stay tuned!

Dear Baby: On the move

Dear Baby,

This week you are about 26 weeks old and you are about a full two pounds and you measure nine-plus inches. And this week, your eyes, which until now were developing under fused eyelids, start to open. Of course, there's not much to see in there, but if you spot a bright light (or hear a loud noise) near my belly, you may see it and move accordingly. In fact, I feel you moving more and more each day, and now you are so BIG and strong that your dad can feel you move and we can SEE you move! It was quite a surreal experience to look down and see the blip across my tummy that was you!! I, without a single thought, smiled as huge as one could smile at the realization of you. Yes, yes I know that you are real, but to see you move was rather perfect. It made me begin to think about your future - when will you come, what will you look like, what will you be like, will you sleep or cry all day, will you be active or more calm, what will you be when you grow up, and what kind of parents will we be to you????

Thinking about your future made me reflect on your history! Sometimes, it happens less and less the longer your dad and I have been married, but sometimes we get asked how we met. Your dad and I have pretty much always known one another. We grew up in a town of about 1000 people and everyone knew everyone. I distinctly remember, although sometimes your dad denies this, getting an email from him and thinking "Why is this kid writing me?" You see I am just a wee bit older than your dad - just a wee bit! From there I became more aware of him and vice versa I suppose. As we got older we began having more and more things in common, and our bond grew closer, and we were best friends. I was in Graduate school in Austin, TX when your dad and I truly became closer and we would email and instant message one another all day everyday. We could talk for hours without missing a beat! I suppose that is when we truly began "falling" for one another but we were stubborn and naive. There were weekends that I'd make the 10 hour drive home just to see your dad for a few days - just to get to spend a few hours with him, but he swears that he never really understood that I "liked" him. Eventually I finished school, and he moved to Las Cruces to begin his undergraduate program. We were both dating other people, but really pining away for one another - again stubbornness dictated our lives for a few years. I moved to Las Cruces as well, and our friendship continued to grow and we realized that we could not and would not continue our lives without one another. Our other relationships left us void and empty, but when we were together we were happy and alive!! Our separate relationships were ended, and we immediately started dating. I think we had known those many many years earlier that we'd end up together, and that we belonged together. We have been officially together for the past 5 years (almost 6!) but have been together in our hearts for much longer than that.

We decided in 2007 to get married, and officially (well, legally!) begin our lives together!! In May 2009 we found out we were pregnant with you!!! We had been trying for some time to have a family, but I guess God knew the perfect time you needed to come along! In the time that we were trying we loved you even still - before we knew you were real and before you were really coming we loved and wanted you. So you can imagine how excited and full of love and joy we are now that you are real and really here!!! In approximately 14 more weeks, 3 months and 8 days, or 98 days (give or take) you will be here - finally.

Love you forever,
Mommy and daddy

Halloween and such.....

I've been kind of under the weather this past week and so my Halloween "spirit" has taken a backseat to coughing, sneezing, sore throat, etc.....HOWEVER in spite of it all I have pressed on!!! Here are a few scenes from Fall/Halloween thus far at our house....

Here is our table centerpiece....

Here are SUPER yummy homemade chocolate cupcakes with homemade cream cheese frosting!Here is my pumpkin au natural: And here it is SPOOKY and lit up......

I have more plans for fall as the weeks go by......More baking and treats to be had!! I better get busy!!!!!!!!!!

The death and resurrection of Carla

Last Thursday Justin and I were racing to class at the last minute, as usual, and we were having to drive separately because he was going to be staying in to work at Lovelace and I was going to come home after class. So I hop into my car and turn the key......nothing. No lights, no sound, no engine roar.........nothing. So I try again......nothing. Justin tries (I'm not sure why he tried but it seemed like a good idea at the time - perhaps I was turning something wrong ?!?).....still nothing. So we scramble to ride together, and I get in the car knowing that I have 3+ hours of nothingness to do after class. I also wasn't feeling well, and have developed a cold (NOT the swine flu) that is really weighing me down. After class we head to Lovelace where Justin goes to work and I take a 2 hour nap in the backseat of the Explorer. I spent the other 1 1/2 hours rummaging for snacks, drinking day old water, and spying on people. I didn't want to wait in the lobby of Lovelace with the sickies and besides the chairs are super uncomfortable.

We return home, try the car, and miraculously it turns on. Friday rolls around......same morning routine....same result - NOTHING! She (she being "Carla the Cavalier" - the valiant name I've dubbed my car) won't turn on again!!! Again we ride to school together, but I do NOT sit in the car today because the wait today would have been almost 7 hours. So I drop Justin off, drive home in the Explorer and get home to deal with Carla's shenanigans. I get in, turn the key, and she turns on. I drive her to our mechanic who immediately tells me it is the alternator, some pulley system and the battery needs to be recharged. I innocently assume this is a$20 job - nope $500!!!!!!!!!!!! Justin and I scramble to figure out what to do - we are both students and so we are on a pretty limited budget - but we know we have to get her fixed. So after much debate, ok HOURS of debate, I hand over our emergency credit card and let the chips fall where they may.

Our mechanic is an older Romanian man, the Romanian Red neck is what he calls himself, and he is rather ummm crude. He curses, smokes (while fixing your car!! impressive!!), tells crude jokes, talks about escapades with (fantasies of course) "babes," and says derogatory comments at the bat of an eye - but I like him. After listening to jokes, stories, watching a quick episode of "are you smarter than a 5th grader" with the Romanian redneck (don't ask) and some elbow grease, finally Carla is ready to roll. After 8 hours of dealing with this car on MY Friday fun day she has risen from the ashes like the mighty Phoenix!! Just when I revel in my victory and sit on the couch for some R&R I receive a text from my dear husband who I've forgotten all about. I scramble to the car as I realize he's still at Lovelace - 45 minutes later I arrive to pick him up and we both marvel at the car - I ask Justin, "Does it make you happy to see her fixed?" to which he replies, "Yes, but not $500 happy." Together we drive home to nosh on Ramen noodles and bologna sandwiches. I love you Carla.

Dear baby

Dear baby,

This week you have started moving like mad - When I am sitting still and especially at night you move almost non-stop. I will admit it is rather nice, however your daddy is getting a little upset because he cannot feel it yet. I guess it will be something you and I share for a while, and I like that (shhhh....dont tell anyone!). Your daddy still talks to you every night, asks you about your day, tells you how excited he is to see you, and tries very hard to feel you move. I reassure him that someday soon you will be big enough to kick him or punch him, and then he will get his wish! My favorite thing, other than feeling you move (!), is sitting in the rocking chair in your room rocking and imagining that you are here....This week we go see your doctor and get to hear your little hearbeat again......We are overjoyed.

What are you up to this week: She's about eight and a half inches long and one and a half pounds, gaining steadily at a rate of six ounces per week. Much of that weight comes from accumulating baby fat, as well as from growing organs, bones, and muscle. By now, that fabulous face is almost fully formed, complete with eyelashes, eyebrows, and hair. Is your baby a brunette, a blond, or a redhead? Actually, right now her locks are white since there's no pigment yet.

We are so glad that you are growing nice and big -- it was cute this week because your dad and I went to a wedding and the daddy/daughter dance happened and we both had tears in our eyes because we could picture this being you and your dad. It reminded us that time goes by so fast and so we have to cherish each moment with you. I know there will be times your cry, yell, scream, defy us, and are frustrated with us however the most important thing we want you to know is that you are truly wanted and truly loved. The best way for you to know this is for us to show you - I never want one day when you doubt you were loved or wanted by either of us.

You are loved,
Mommy and daddy

The no name store......

Several months ago when we first found out we were expecting we were in AWE and completely dumbfounded with how expensive maternity clothes were. We heard from some individuals about this store (which shall remain nameless lest I get sued) where you can buy used maternity and baby clothes as well as used baby items like swings/strollers etc... They told us how nice it was and just really raved about it. Then we heard from another individual about this store and they really sang its praises....so we thought we'd give it a try. We drove to this store 3 times and each time it was closed - it seemed as if no matter what time we got there it was closed. So the game was on - I was going inside this store even if it killed me.....

I guess I should have chosen by battle more carefully.

We drove up and it was OPEN!! The parking lot was super full of mini vans and other child friendly vehicles. We walked up to see the strollers parked and chained outside - they were filthy. So I though, "Ok this is just the strollers - strollers take a lot of beating so naturally they will be worn out." So we proceeded into the store where I was over taken by the smell of bleach and cheap laundry detergent. The store was filthy and everyone was packed in like sardines. I walked down one aisle and told Justin, "I just can't do it!!!" I ran out. On the way out I almost bumped into this older man and I took note of him because he was (1) male (2) wearing dirty clothes and (3) smoking. I thought he must be waiting for a woman inside or was just passing through --- ummm not. We got into the car and I saw this same man carrying some furniture inside the store -- HE WAS A WORKER!!! He was walking INTO the store FULL of pregnant women and children with his lit cigarette hanging out of his mouth! I marvelled at his dedication to this cigarette - he was going to finish smoking it at all costs!

There is something to be said for that level of dedication in an employee.

Up up and AWAY!!!!!!

On Friday my mom came to visit us but mostly to attend the Balloon Fiesta. Justin an I were attending a Spirituality in Nursing Conference @ UNM that didn't get out until 400 pm and my mom was leaving Fort Sumner around 230 pm - so we were cutting it close to making it to the Special Shapes Glow-deo on time. We left the house around 445 ish and immediately hit the traffic back up on the road. We passed several parking areas on our way with the furthest being a $3.00 lot which we passed on as it was in this family's yard with stacks of non-working vehicles and a rather large bonfire burning in the front yard. Next we passed an $8.00 lot, which we didn't park at because the one at the balloon fiesta park was only $2 more and closer. So we trekked on....by this time it was 6:00 pm and the event started at 5:45 but it wasn't dark yet so we knew we had a few more moments. We made it to the parking lot and were the LAST car allowed in the lot - AND parking was free. Unfortunately it was pretty dark by that time so we were all freaked out we were going to miss it!!! We ran the several miles down the hill and made it just in time for some spectacular sights:

We spent the rest of the weekend with my mom shopping and eating - a good time was had by all!!! We picked out my PIMP rocking chair, which also was immediately assembled - LOVE IT! Then my mom headed out on late Sunday afternoon and all was well.... (cue music: duh duh duh)....when Justin realized he'd left his wallet in my mom's car. We called her as soon as we noticed but she was already in Santa Rosa. Everything we possess (nearly) is in that wallet - all of our access to our money, cash, drivers licenses, SS cards, insurance cards, student ID's -- EVERYTHING.,,.(cue thieves)....We were both frantic to try to get it back. We knew it could be mailed but we've had some really horrible interactions with the postal service - things getting lost never to be found again. We just KNEW that if it got put in the mail that we'd be cancelling credit/debit cards, having to get knew licenses, etc.....and it was not an idea that appealed to us. Thankfully my mom offerred to meet us half way between Fort Sumner and Rio Rancho to drop off the wallet!! So we met her on Monday evening to pick up the wallet and had dinner at the Clines Corner Diner - it was surprisingly YUMMY!!! We laughed at Justin being strung out over the wallet and how now he could finally get some sleep! Even though I was secretly rather strung out as well :)

Haunted?!?! No thanks!

I have a love hate relationship with haunted houses. In the very core of my being I want to love them.....I do love the idea of them....not the reality of them. I think its the fact that I have convinced myself that a serial killer or criminal could easily get a job at a haunted house and go on a mass killing spree ALL under the guise of this being fake. Have I mentioned I have a very vivid imagination. Bottom line: haunted houses and I DON'T mix.

Exhibit A: Approximately 4 years ago Justin and I went to the KLAQ haunted house with some friends in El Paso. They were having a dual haunted house - you paid per thrill - and being the cheapskates that we all were we selected to do just one of them. I believe one was a Circus theme (which we chose) and the other was "Hell" themed. Hey, the circus one sounded the least scary of the two, but I'm not convinced we made a wise choice. We entered and (it was my first "real" haunted house) and I bravely entered laughing at some of the characters we encountered along the way. Then I realized that one of these freak shows was following us, and I was in the back of the pack. He was saying, "Are you laughing now?" as he banged his chains on the boards that made up these narrow walls and walk way. There was horrible heavy metal music blasting and the strobe lights began. I was becoming disoriented and this clearly vindictive man was out to get me. In the midst of things jumping out at us and the maze of it all I was coming undone. This man literally followed us through the whole haunted house - did he not have others to scare?? We approached the end - I could see the end in sight - and this Charles Manson looking man wearing a simple cloth diaper appeared. He blocked the only way out - a bridge. The four of us were caught in this circular room with "Charles" and my hooded/chain banging friend behind us. "Charles" approached and began getting too close for comfort - at this time we all made a run for it across the bridge. Only to find ourselves in the pitch black with the only familiar sounds being screams and a chain saw. Again I was in the back of the pack -- I knew I had to make a move. I pushed Justin out of the way, pushed someone else out of the way, and found the other female in our party frozen in fear (or so I assumed) so I did what any caring friend would do. I grabbed the back of her shirt, pushed her and used her as a shield against the chain saw menacing clown. After running for what seemed like miles we hit day light - I survived!!

Exhibit B: Approximately 2 years ago we went a haunted corn maze at midnight -- after having watched all of the Saw movies. We waited in line FOREVER but finally were admitted, and I immediately knew this was not going to go well. I wanted to turn around before we even hit the haunted part because I pretty freaked out by walking in a corn maze in the pitch black. However the people we were with would not let me turn around, and there was a huge sign saying there was no turning back at that point (for safety or some BS like that). We approached this barn guarded by a small man wearing a mask. I didn't want to go in the barn, but I was forced. The man approached me and said in a raspy voice, "Are you scared???" So I walked up closer to him and screamed at the top of my lungs (RIGHT in his face mind you) "YESSSSSS!!!!" At that point I was unglued. I pulled my winter hat over my eyes, clutched Justin's arms (to the point of leaving him bruised for a few days after), and went through the rest of the maze as such. I was near tears, and this was THE longest maze in history. I only knew what I could hear-- footsteps, gunshots, and the rustling of the corn. My fear was interrupted only momentarily when someone let out a yell and we stopped and looked back only to see that someone had gotten scared by a scarecrow that popped out of the corn that she literally fell backwards and landed on the cornfield behind her. She was lying on the ground with her eyes closed and swinging her hands and feet at those trying to help her up. At least that wasn't me, right?!?! After making it out of the maze the rest of my party wanted to go to the haunted barn - ummm no. So as they went I sat at the gift shop and waited for them....and investigated whether this gift shop sold new underwear (they didn't).

So there you have it -- me and haunted stuff. Enemies. Friends. Haunted houses, I love to hate you.

Dear baby: 13

Dear baby,

This week has been super busy and your dad and I got quite a bit accomplished in your room. We put together your crib, organized your closet, and bought some wall hangings - it looks quite nice and classy if I do say so myself!! I have felt you moving more and more each day - you really like to swim around at night, which has been a really special ritual. However, once you get a little bigger you might just be strong enough to keep me awake!! Your dad is still talking to you each night and I think he really likes the times he can spend talking with you. He is very anxious to be able to feel you move himself and tries every day, but with no luck so far!

This week: Your baby's blood circulation is completely functional. The umbilical cord system continues to grow and thicken as blood travels with considerable force through the body to nurture the baby. The placenta is now almost equal in size to the baby. Your baby will be getting much larger during the second half of your pregnancy. Your baby's crown-to-rump length at this time is 7.2 inches and she weighs approximately 10.5 ounces. Your growing baby is about the size of a large banana. You should be able to feel your uterus about a half of an inch above your navel. Your weight gain so far will be around 10 to 15 pounds. Your baby's different organs and systems are maturing. The fetal digestive system is functioning in a simple way and your baby can swallow amniotic fluid. After your baby swallows the amniotic fluid, she is able to absorb water and sugars from the fluid and then the waste is passed as far as the large bowel. Your baby swallows the amniotic fluid in order to prepare itself for life outside of the womb. Some babies consume as much as 17 ounces of amniotic fluid in a 24-hour period. Your baby already has a high number of red blood cells and the white blood cells are beginning to be produced. Taste buds are being formed on your baby's tongue this week also.

So you are quite bigger than even last time I saw you -- how exciting!! We are so excited for your arrival and each Friday I know that the week changes and we keep a very close count on how many weeks old you are. Soon and very soon you will be in our arms, and we are very excited for that day!

Love you with our whole being,
Mommy and daddy

The Mountain

Justin and I recently spent some time visiting with a older gentleman who lost his wife a little over a year ago. They had been married for over 50 years and were incredibly close....as one can imagine. Upon her death he had her cremated and he trekked up the mountains to spread her ashes, as was her wish. She had spent many days and nights looking at these very same mountains throughout the past few years especially the last few when she was rather ill. She'd sit in her recliner and gaze out from their apartment view and stare at these mountains. When talking about her he pointed out the window and said, "There she is," as he fondly gazed out the same window telling us the story of how he had spread her ashes on the mountain top. Now each day he sits in his recliner and gazes out the window, as his wife had done many times before, and can "see" her from where he sits. As he looked out the window he said, "I think about her every day.....not a day goes by that she's not in my thoughts."

This is love.

Worst Educational Experience EVER!!

I am, by all rights and privileges, a professional student. I really enjoy going to school and learning more about a wide variety of topics as I go along in this thing we call life. Given that I am a professional student I have attended a wide variety of educational institutions. I have gone to community colleges (3), small universities (1), large universities (3) and probably some places in between that I have likely forgotten. I began my educational career at a small NM university Eastern New Mexico University and I had a GREAT experience there. Everyone was interested in my learning and was willing to go above and beyond to ensure that you learned the material and could apply it to the work you wanted to ultimately do. The instructors and professors were most interested in that you LEARNED the material not that they could lord themselves over you.

I then went on to the University of Texas at Austin, which at the time was the largest university in the country. That was a SUPER experience, and I really felt that I came into my own at this university. Again the instructors were focused on ensuring that you learned, and fostered a great amount of in/out of class discussion that you could clearly see the application for the future. They were all approachable and helpful, and it seemed as if each of them wanted to truly mentor you. Many of these professors were leaders in their respective areas of research and their work is used in college/universities all over the world.

I went to the other colleges/universities to get various pre-requisites to end up where I am now........the bowels of hell. I can truly say that the community college experiences I had were more helpful than being at UNM. We are 7 months away from gradutating, which means I've survived 9 months of the worst educational experience of my life. UNM's system, generally, is impossible to navigate. Try changing your name after you get married - you need approval from literally 3 different departments. Forget finding a quick solution to a financial aid problem because NO ONE CARES! Call the bursar's office and you will find the most disgruntled worker with the most horrible attitude ever.

(ring ring).......(music....talking....holding for 20 minutes)
Bursar: (imagine a VERY angry woman with an Asian accent answering) Hello
Me: Yes, I was calling because it says online that I have a balance due and I was calling to see why my financial aid wasn't used......
Bursar: (interrupting me) What's your name?
Me: Jennifer W.....
Bursar: (interrupting me) What's the student ID?
Me: My UNM id # or my......
Bursar (interrupting me) What's the ID?
Me: ########
Bursar: No, your ID
Me: ummmm ######???
Bursar: you need to register
Me: But i can't because of the balance --- so there is a hold and...
Bursar: (interrupting me) I took off the hold. --- CLICK
Me: Hello????? (realizing that she just hung up on me!!!!!!!!!!!)

Now I gave her the benefit of the doubt-- maybe she just had a bad day??! however Justin came home one day telling me a similar story and I immediately knew who he had spoken to. (to this lady if you read this blog : GET A NEW JOB OR A BETTER ATTITUDE!!)

Don't even get me started on the instructors at the nursing program - HORRIBLE. I've encountered maybe 2 good ones --- one we have this year and one from last year--- everyone else has royally sucked. They are not friendly, not helpful, BORING as all get out, waste our time with their classes, apathetic, and DO NOT care about promoting learning. I kid you not the youngest instructor is in their late 50's (there is one of these youngesters lurking about) and the rest are in their 80's (no lie).

At the beginning of the year they asked for all people car pooling to alert the staff so they could be accomodated for clinical placement. So Justin and I followed protocol.....we were not placed together but everyone else who car pooled together was placed together. We finally found someone willing to trade us places in groups so we could be at the same location, but then were told we could only be at the same location for 1/2 of the semester -- umm ok....

I've already written about how you "choose" your clinical placements -- the word choice is used very loosely --- so loosely it barely applies.

Forget about asking someone a question because they either get defensive because they feel you are challenging them or they are absolutely clueless.

I've disengaged and CANNOT wait for this program to end.........As a professional student with numerous educational experiences the grade I'd give this university and this program is a big fat
F!!

Chronicles of the Bump: The name game

The number one question we were asked (up until last Thursday) was "What is it?" I guess referring to whether we are having a boy or a girl. Now that earth shattering question has been answered - we were relieved as we thought we were done answering questions by friends, family and strangers alike. We were wrong! Now THAT question has been replaced with, "What are you going to name her?"

We have tossed around all sorts of ideas - old names, bible names, cool names, off the wall names and so far we have NOT - I repeat NOT decided on a name. The sad thing is that we've told people names we've selected in an attempt to appease their inquisitiveness (?) and people seem satistified as long as you provide them with an answer. No one cares what the name is - just as long as you tell them something. Of course no one critiques the name you provide (at least not to your face) but always say, "Oh I LOVE that name!" We will likely not fully select a name until we see her.......we will let her personality dictate her "REAL" name!



Here is the "bump" rocking a Texas Football shirt -- we are now at 20 weeks so 20 more to go (give or take a few)........

Dear baby: 12

Dear baby,

This past week was great - we got to hear your heart beating to start the week off and then to finish out the week we got to see you!!!. It was such a special time for your dad and I as we were able to see your little arms, hands, legs, toes, head, ribs, belly and heart!! Stacy, your ultrasound lady, said that you were perfect and growing exactly as you need to be!! While we were watching you we got to see you "talking" and moving your perfect little mouth! Finally, we were able to find out if you were a boy or a girl --- and as your probably know -- you are a girl! It is amazing how the Psalms (139) so perfectly encompass our constant awe at how you are growing and developing. You are indeed being knitted together in my womb, and you are indeed fearfully and wonderfully made!!!

When we left the ultrasound and were in the car your dad said, "We are going to have a daddy's little princess," with a HUGE smile on his face. I can already tell that you are going to rule the house, and that I am going to be out numbered!!! Your dad then decided we needed to hit up the outlet malls in Canutillo/El Paso to see if we could find you any treats - which we did - and prepare for your quickly approaching arrival! Your dad is soooo cute - he talks to you every night, has read you some stories, and is always watching out for me (since I am the one housing you for now!)......you are going to be one spoiled....ummm blessed little girl.

Love you little one,

Mommy and daddy

It's a................

.....bout time for Justin to put on his tea party boa because we are having a GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!

Dear Baby: !!

I have been absent from writing to you for some time, but trust me you have been along for everything - every moment of the ride! This Monday your dad and I got to hear your heart beat and relish the sound of hearing life rushing through your little tiny body. This coming Thursday your dad and I are really looking forward to getting to see you and hear you once again. We are excited to spend some time together seeing you and marvelling at the miracle and answer to prayers that you are. You are certain to change our lives in each and every way - and we cannot wait for you!!

Let's take a peek at what you are doing this week: "Your baby's crown-to-rump length is 5.2 to 6 inches this week. Your baby weighs approximately 7 ounces and will increase its weight more than 15 times between now and birth! One of the most amazing aspects of your baby's growth and development is that of the fetal brain. Your baby's brain is one of the first organs to appear. Your baby's oversized head shows the brain's importance in his development. Because the nerves that connect the muscles to the brain have grown into place, your baby's movements are consciously directed. Your baby's ears stand out from the sides of the head and the buds for your baby's permanent teeth appear. Your baby's arms and legs have reached their relative proportions and his feet are approximately one inch long."

See you Thursday baby!
Love you to the moon and back!
Mommy and daddy

Absent - minded

We have been absent from writing for some time, and I only have one thing to say: School. We started school last Thursday and it has taken quite a bit to get re-adjusted to being back!! It did feel good to be back and productive once again versus vegging out and doing "boring" things like watching TV, travelling, working on the babies room, etc....JUST KIDDING!! Justin and I are in a clinical setting for Parish Nursing which integrates the use of faith/spirituality along with nursing care. We had our first day today, and we had a really great experience - so 7 weeks in this setting and then it is on to our psychiatric placement at the VA.

Well......I think that is all for now (not too exciting!) but I will update about "What it is" on Thursday or Friday!!! AND the next Dear Baby is soon to follow - I promise :)

Adventures with "The Bump"

Justin and I decided to take a trip to Las Vegas over our summer "break" from school. He was hesitant to drive because he didn't know how I'd do in the car for that long since I'm pregnant. I convinced him I'd be a champ, and we could make it. So Justin, myself and "the bump" packed up and headed to the City of Lights (well, the American version!). We decided to drive to Laughlin the first day and see the sights there since we'd never stopped. Boy! I would NOT do that again. It was like Las Vegas - dying.....nearly dead. It was raunchy (sorry Laughlin).

We drove to Primm to stop at the outlet mall and then we headed out to Las Vegas - we got a great deal for like $20 something a night at the Palace Station. It is off the strip, but super cheap! We were a little scared given neither of us had ever stayed there, but we were pleasantly surprised. The rooms were SUPER nice, casino was NOT crowded, and it was like 2 seconds from the strip.

We were excited to do "new" and "different" things with "The Bump" - I like giving it a cryptic name as if it is overtaking me - I think it's better than the blob!! So here are some picture highlights:

Saw what appears to be a not so nice rock formation!
Headed out to the strip at night - still a cool 98 degrees

Took in the Blue Man Group show!!

We were in the poncho section - 1st row - for $40
after my mad discount skills were used! Here is Justin
reluctant to put on his Poncho!!

Made a few calls to my peeps at the Encore/Wynn

Checked out the waterfalls at the Wynn!!!
Check out my new maternity shorts and
courtesy of the Las Vegas Premium Outlets!!
AND my new Nikes ($23) courtesy of the Primm
outlets!!

Justin at the Paris.........

We took in some lunch at the Fashion Show Mall

We took in the Conservatory at the Bellagio

"The Bump" at the Paris.........

"The Bump" getting ready to head out for the day!

We all headed out to the Nevada Temple.......

"The Bump" Our family at the Temple!

Justin at the Temple sign..........After attending the
Temple Justin took me to Ruth Chris' SteakHouse and it
was the BEST steak I've ever had!! While enjoying our
meal there we saw a break up gone bad!! These two women
appeared to be on a date, and all of the sudden one got up,
threw money on the table and stormed out. Leaving the other
to settle the bill, which was easily $200-300 (the one that left

had ordered a bottle of wine, another alcoholic beverage,
a crab appetizer, garlic bread and a steak). The one that was
left attempted to get the order canceled but it was too late!
Our waiter had to take her to the manager and the eventually
walked out of my range of snooping err...hearing. Justin and I
didn't even know they had been fighting! They were so quiet
during the time they were there - it was eerie!

"The Bump" on the way to see Mystere!!

Ready for the show!!!!!

Waiting for the Volcano at the Mirage --
We got tired of waiting and left...................

We headed out after a little over a week there!! We decided to stop over at the Primm Outlets yet again and we found that the Children's Place was having a SUPER sale. They had most of the store on sale for $1.99 and under!! We loaded up on onesies, little shorts, T-shirts, and things that were as gender neutral as possible - We got nearly 60 items for just about $50!! It was great!! We headed on the long drive home -- it was a perfect trip!!

We hope to go on one more short trip before the baby comes - I really think "The Bump" likes travelling!!