Rueppell Family Blog Spot

Some pics from the past two weeks

2011-10-12T15:57:00.000-07:00

Big Brother

Sleeping Peacefully

Big Guy & our little Sweet Pea

I found my thumb!

Justin is getting so big! We thought he looked so mature in his jeans & jacket.

Paige's first bath with help from Justin. Her feet were spotless!

First time holding his sister...he was only interested for about 30 seconds.

Yep...11:57pm......

2011-09-28T23:57:00.000-07:00

Just so it's clearly communicated...we are really enjoying ALL of this again!!!!

I don't think it gets any better than this

...sigh...

........and I'm exhausted! Great time to sleep, right? Apparently not for my adrenaline-ridden body :)

Happily swaddled (but Daddy still needs more practice)

Heidi was able to get a little bit but we are being driven by an emotional mind (staying awake to enjoy Paige) and not a practical mind to steal sleep when she is sleeping. Unfortunate for us our practical mind woke up about 30mins before it was time to try feeding again :(

Here's hoping we are able to get her down in the next 30 mins and grab a few ZZZZZ's ourselves

Introductions Are In Order

2011-09-28T17:57:00.000-07:00

Justin,
Meet your baby sister, Paige

I'm a Big Brother Now

First Bath

2011-09-28T16:39:00.000-07:00

Step by Step:

Not very happy after being pulled away from Mommy

Loved to be back in warm water (like the last 9 months and 2 days)

Paige Rosella Rueppell

2011-09-28T15:50:00.000-07:00

Paige is here!!!!!!!!! 2:25pm and very healthy (at least the cries are)

Paige Rosella :) xoxo

Cute, huh?!

The new addition fitting right in with Mommy and Daddy...... ;)

2-3 MINS!!!

2011-09-28T13:22:00.000-07:00

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Well, the contractions are that far apart, anyway:)

Were you thinking something else? Humor helps the room!

A touch of home

2011-09-28T11:57:00.000-07:00

Kim and Mary are now both with us. We are excited to, again, share this with family; we had half the out-of-town presence for Justin's birth 2 years ago.

JAX to SNA

The Next Phase

2011-09-28T11:22:00.000-07:00

The doctor has made his decision...

BROKEN WATER......next phase...baby?!?! YAY!

Labor has begun!!!

2011-09-28T09:16:00.000-07:00

Pitocin (Oxytocin) is in the veins

Heartbeats look good & contractions mild

Healthy Mommy?

2011-09-28T09:03:00.000-07:00

"She's a boring, simple girl"

(Nurse Patty referring to Heidi's medical past)

Baby sounds healthy
Blood is drawn
IV line placed
and Heidi has signed "her life away"

...I'm trying to keep Mary on her toes by teasing about the costs we are accruing (including each time we open a door...charges for maintenance on the door hinges...you know that's a labor and materail (oil) charge)

Morning activity

2011-09-28T08:47:00.000-07:00

Justin got to school (with his favorite lunchbox) and was excited to see his friend Jack and Miss Jenn. He can't wait to get into his room with Miss Heather Marie (or as he affectionately refers to her as..."Piya").

Oh yeah, he is also very excited to meet baby sister!

BDAY day!

2011-09-28T06:52:00.001-07:00

It is an hour and 8 minutes before we are expected to arrive at the hospital! We are getting Justin ready for Daycare and ourselves ready for the delivery :)

Dunno...maybe more to come today?!?!?!?!!!!!!
-Collin

March 2011

2011-09-20T09:06:00.000-07:00

March 2011

Justin likes to drive...already asking for the keys ;)

The first time we went to a bounce house and Justin was mostly interested in the drinking fountain.

February 2011

2011-09-20T08:54:00.001-07:00

February 2011

Big Guy and Justin Man

Papa Gary and Judy came to visit too!

Don't forget about Mimi

Justin's first REAL dump truck...he still loves it!

2011-09-18T09:12:00.000-07:00

More January 2011

San Diego Zoo

Justin's first haircut.

We finished it with Jamba Jucie to take his mind of the torture. Haha!

Park Day with Mommy and Daddy

January 2011

2011-09-14T11:09:00.000-07:00

January 2011

Justin loves to look out the window at the garbage trucks every Monday morning. He still loves this. He says, "Big Blue!"

Back on Track

2011-09-14T10:55:00.000-07:00

So, the biggest reason I tell myself that I haven't kept up on the blog is that I've been pregnant all year and too tired to do a whole lot extra. Well, and the fact that I now have a two year old little boy. This whole blog was started for him (and for me so I could keep track of life) so that Justin would know what his childhood was like. Also, I wanted our family and friends to be able to see our family grow since most everyone is spread all over the US. So, here is my attempt to be caught up from now on...since the baby girl will be here in about two weeks and I'm on maternity leave now. Let's see how this goes.

Time gone bye, bye

2011-01-04T14:12:00.000-08:00

It has been far too long since I have updated our blog. I feel really guilty about it, but the new year is here and so it's time for changes...and updates! Let me go back a few months and see if I can fill in the gaps.

Halloween

This was a really fun day for us all. Collin and I took Justin to the park for the morning to burn some energy so he would take a good nap and be ready to go Trick-or-Treating. It worked pretty well and then we had a yummy spaghetti dinner and put on our costumes. Collin was a tequila slinger, my costume was too cold so I went as me and Justin was a lion. It had a big mane that was supposed to go over his head and he refused to keep it on so I pushed it down around his neck. Not the full effect, but just as cute.

We, once again, tried to go out with the neighbors but couldn't keep up with their big kids so we just hit the houses of the people we know well. It was perfect because Justin still doesn't know what candy is so we really just went by to show off his costume. By the time we got home, we had missed all of the Trick-or-Treaters that came to our house which means there was too much candy left here. Some how it all magically disappeared too.

Thanksgiving

We were able to go to Oregon and visit with Collin's family for the holiday. We stayed with his Dad and Judy and it was awesome!! Judy got up with Justin almost everyday and they were always willing to play/watch him for us. That is the most wonderful feeling since we don't have that option at home. It surely does make life easier when you have help from family.

Of course we spent time with Thelma and her side of the family too. She hosted a really fun Turkey Day dinner and was so nice to excuse us early so Justin could take a nap before round two took place at Gary and Judy's house.

Collin and I got to go see the Beavers play with our friends too. We felt so carefree and had a total blast visiting with our old crew.

Christmas

Quiet and with our friends Matt, Bethany and Mackenzie. We had a delicious dinner and ALL of the adults were able to sit at a table together for the first time in years. Partly because Matt and Bethany just got a new dinning table (made from recycled wood and ultra cool) and partly because the kids are (for the most part) now able to sit at a table on their own. Yeah!! A victory for the adults!

I must say that this holiday was mostly lost on Justin. He was most excited about his new rocking chair and the ball popper that he pushed around the house for the morning with a huge smile on his face. The one thing he did love to look at was his picture with Santa. He wasn't a huge fan when we were there, but he liked to point out Santa and then point to himself and go back and forth. Maybe next year he will make the connection between Santa and the gifts.

New Year's Eve

Another quiet night with Matt, Bethany and Mackenzie. We bravely took the kids to get sushi and they did alright. Then we picked up some coffee and went home to count down to the east coast celebrations. We put the kids to bed and started playing games. I really had no intention of staying up until midnight, but before I knew it, the clock said 1am!! I was very tired the next day, but it was worth it to have a night of fun.

So, meanwhile Justin has really sprouted. He is up to 28lbs and 32in and has 8 teeth now. He is talking up a storm too. Well he is trying to anyway. Yesterday is said "big, blue truck" with some encouragement.

2010-09-12T20:49:00.001-07:00

Today I was really feeling like I was failing Justin. I took him to Dana Point with Bethany and Mackenzie to see this pirate show and ships they had on display. He was tired before we left and I pushed him to his max limit. He cried the whole walk back to the shuttle bus because he just wanted to walk and there were too many people for me to let him. He was also hungry and about two hours past his nap time. Then we got on the bus and he was so excited to be riding free of his car seat...he leaned over and gave me the biggest, wetest, gummiest kiss you've ever seen. My heart melted and I felt the most pure love from my little boy filling my soul. Even after all I put him through he just wanted his mommy. Those are the moments that I really want to remember.

Happy 1st Birthday Justin!!

2010-09-12T20:23:00.000-07:00

We were so lucky to go to the Outer Banks of North Carolina for our summer vacation this year. We stayed in this huge house with eight master bedrooms that was set on a beach with wild horses running around. The best part of our trip was that most of our family was able to be there and help us to celebrate Justin's first birthday!!

It was so much fun to set up Justin's beach party themed decorations and make his surf board cake with my family. They were all a huge help and we realized how much we really miss them.

Justin was the center of attention with all of them too and he ate it right up. He would do something cute and everyone would cheer and clap. Next thing you know Justin was exaggerating his every move just to get bigger, louder reactions. Such a little ham...I wonder where he gets that from?

Most excitingly though was when Justin took his first steps!!!! Two days before his birthday he started taking three and four little steps on his own. By the time we left he was almost running with assistance...that being an adult holding his LEFT hand. He knows what he wants!

Now he is really working on talking. There isn't anything coming from his baby lips that is really recognizable, but some of his babble is sounding more like plain English to my Mommy ears. He definitely has a word for dog that sound something like "bab" and then he will try to bark. So stinking cute I can't stand it!!

Surf board cake

The decorations

Mommy and the Birthday Boy!

Let the celebration begin!

This is delicious! My first chocolate!

He got Daddy!!

Kristin, Mimi Mary and Me

Most of the Rueppell Clan

Us, Grandama T, Donna and Chris, Sophia, Tyler and Brent

Way Overdue!

2010-08-03T13:49:00.000-07:00

This post is so far overdue, it is crazy. I thought I would be able to keep this up once a week or so, but that is a total joke. Time management is apparently not my strongest skill :(

Justin is growing and changing by the minute. He got his second ear infection about a month after the first one and it hung on for a while. Finally, after two rounds of antibiotics, it cleared up...I'm pretty sure he is on the verge of getting another one though. Too bad for my little baby.

The best news of all is that Justin got his first tooth on Father's Day followed by the next one two weeks later. Now he has the bottom two and likes to use them to bite our fingers when we get them anywhere near his mouth. I am really surprised that he hasn't broken our skin yet, but I'm sure that day is coming. Maybe with the next two teeth.

He is also on the verge of walking. Justin will walk when we hold his hands and on Sunday he started to stand without holding on. He is definitely testing the waters to see how long he can go and how far he can reach. I feel like the first steps are just around the corner. No more baby, he is becoming a toddler.

Along with becoming a toddler comes the temper tantrums, curiosity of his surroundings and learning to say "uh oh" when he drops/throws food from his highchair. This has been a hard transition for me because I wasn't expecting it to come so soon. Now that I am starting to realize he is just growing up, I am learning to manage him differently (or shall I say, respond to the screaming and body launching in a new manner).

Here is the best part, all the pics...

Justin's first bite of watermelon

Our first day at the beach as a family

Yummy sand!

First spaghetti

Justin loves to help with the dishes

Silly pics with Mommy

Here is a good pic of Justin's eyes...greenish hazel like Collin

Two bottom teeth

Little Stories

2010-06-09T12:31:00.000-07:00

I'm nine months old now and I like to pull up on my jumper and try to crawl. I went to the doctor to get my check up and I weighed in at 22lbs 13ozs and I was 30in tall. That means I have to get my big boy car seat now.

I also got my first ear infection and it was on both sides. Ouch!! Once we got the antibiotics figured out my tummy started to feel better and now I even like the taste of my medicine. Plus, my ears feel better too!!

We took our first trip the the zoo and we had a great time!! It was a hot day, so it was a little short lived, but I had a blast. I love to watch birds and the zoo is the place to be for that. They have birds walking and flying around everywhere and making all kinds of noise.

This was an egg in a nest for people to take pictures. I kept trying to lean off the edge.

Me and Daddy in front of the flamingos.

Play time with my friend Brandon

Pool time!! I love the pool!

Playing Peek a boo with Mommy and Daddy in my crib.

Out to lunch with my buddy Darrin and making a HUGE mess!

Love me some cheerios.

My first Mother's Day

2010-06-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that my first Mother's Day was so much more special than I ever thought it would be. I don't think I could understand the significance of having a day devoted to you just for being a mom and taking care of the ones you love, but it made me feel appreciated.

I was brave enough to take a trip to Florida to visit Mimi, Big Guy, Kristin, Zack and Drew. I get to say "brave" since I decided to go all on my own with Justin and no help from anyone else. Collin couldn't get away from work and I didn't want to miss an opportunity to see my family, so in a moment of weakness I told my Dad to go ahead and book me and Justin a flight. Later, after the ticket was already booked, was when I started to panic.

Luckily, I have traveled with Justin and Collin two other times, so I knew a few tricks to getting through airport security without any major holdups. For the most part I did alright on my own. There were a few moments of screaming (not just the baby) and I learned how to use the restroom on an airplane while holding your infant in your arms. A talent I never thought I would need, but it turns out it is helpful advice for others. :) Also, there were many nice strangers who helped with my stroller and bags and one who even took pity on me enough to hold Justin in her lap while I fed him.

Overall I had the most wonderful time with my family. I was able to relax and Justin was able to get to know everyone better.

Justin in the walker that a parents friends picked up for him. It was a life saver.

Justin and Mimi

My first Mother's Day flowers that Collin sent to me.

Justin and Big Guy playing with the wind chime

Justin loved Deja and she really didn't notice him

Arizona

2010-05-16T08:36:00.001-07:00

Recently we took a trip to Arizona to visit with some old friends and we had a great time. We stayed with Brett and Michelle and their little one, Rylee (four days younger than Justin and about 10lbs. lighter. Remember, we like to call him "Healthy."). Michelle and I got to compare notes on the kids and do a little shopping while the guys got to go golfing.

It's so much fun for Collin and me to spend time with people who have a baby the same age as Justin. It helps give you new ideas on how to play with your baby and gives perspective to the range of stages the babies are going through. The best part is that parents of babies want to go to bed early and have to wake up early, so we are all on the same schedule. :)

While were we there, Brett and Michelle were gracious enough to host a dinner for some family friends of mine Jeff and Channing Dallstream. They were neighbors of mine in Fountain Hills, and more importantly, they were our family. We spent many weekends and holidays together and I did some babysitting for them too:) It was sooo great to see them again and catch up.

I also got to visit with another friend who goes all the way back to grade school with me, Melissa Garcia. We go way, way back, if ya know what I mean. We met up at the Fountain Park (totally changed and beautiful, fun place to take the kids) with Melissa, her husband Danny and two kids, Daniel and Mia. So stinking cute! Daniel was running all over the place and Danny was keeping track of him so Melissa could sit with me, Michelle and the babies and talk about our little monkeys.

We also had a nice dinner with a close friend of Collin (and me now too), Mike McBride and his new bride Leonor and her son Kaleb. Leonor was so, so generous and gave me a bunch of Kaleb's old clothes for Justin (It was so sweet since my little Justin is wearing 18mo clothing now and it's not slowing down). We had just seen Mike and Leonor the weekend before when they were in Cali for their wedding, so we had some time to catch up with them and give them some wedding pictures we took.

It was so wonderful to see everyone and see my friends as mother's. We all have our own approach to parenting, but we are all in the same place. Trying to be the best mommies we can be for our children.

Here are the pics...

Justin's first time in the pool

He was in heaven!

I can make a chew toy out of anything

Holding hands with Rylee

Cute little Rylee was showing Justin how it's done

by crawling and scooting around everywhere.

Learning to share

We went to the railroad park and Collin was tossing Justin up and catching him. Of course, Justin loved it, but Mommy did not!! Here is Daddy teasing Mommy.

The girls with our babies

2010-04-13T11:15:00.000-07:00

Justin's first Easter was a success!! He loved playing with the colored eggs and his friend Mackenzie too. We also discovered he likes to eat paper. Blue is his favorite flavor so far, but I believe he is developing a taste for anything that make a crinkling noise when you grab at it. Good thing I remembered to tell his babysitter that he swallowed a little "Easter surprise" so when she opened his diaper on Monday it didn't come as a "surprise" to her when she saw a blue streak inside. All we could do was laugh. But the laughing came after my freak out...of course.

By the time we posed Mackenzie and Justin for pics nap time was way over due.

Play time in the morning

Sour face

6 months and on to 7

2010-02-22T11:46:00.001-08:00

Justin is learning to sit up all on his own now! He's still a little shaky, but it's the only way he wants to be. No more reclining on his back and taking in the scenery, now he wants to reach out and grab the scenery so he can shove it in his mouth, drool all over it and toss it to the side. I guess this is just the beginning of the active little baby phase. :)

O.K., so that is the blog I started working on a couple of weeks ago and never got around to finishing. No more shaky sitting, Justin is strong now!! He is even starting to wiggle his little booty on the ground like he wants to scoot off somewhere. Watch out Mommy! Things won't be so easy very soon.

We also had his six month check up a few weeks ago. This time I made sure that Collin would be able to be there since I wanted an extra set of ears to hear all the answers to the questions I had. But, the biggest reason I wanted Collin there was to hold down our sweet little baby while he was stabbed in the legs with his immunizations. I wanted Collin to witness that angelic, laughing baby turn into a whaling, kicking monster. I wanted it to be Collin's eyes he would look into with hurt and betrayal instead of mine. It's only fair, right? Sometimes Daddy needs to be the bad guy, not just me... and let's face it, I can't bear to see my Little Monkey so upset.

Well, the best part of these appointments are the stats...

20lbs 1oz which is 75th percentile

28in which is 93rd percentile

Keep in mind that he started at 7lb 9oz and 19in long. That is a LOT of growing for one little baby. Alright, not that little, but it's still a lot.

The best part of our appointment was when I asked the doctor if I should be concerned that Justin is not really rolling over anymore and still hates to be on his tummy. She just smiled at us and said, "Sometimes bigger babies just don't." So, I guess I can relax about the developmental delay that I was just sure he had.

I'm sure it is still very apparent from my writing that I am still learning to trust my instincts about parenting. I'm also still looking for that perfect baby book with all the answers. But, this has been the most wonderful time with Justin. He is excited to find and discover new things and I love being the one who shows them to him. So far we know that he seems to really like animals and be indifferent with swinging. I can't wait for many more firsts. :)

Collin and Mackenzie having fun at the park

Justin thought it was more fun to watch them have a good time

Snuggle time in the morning with Mommy
A picnic in the park with Granma T

Justin's six month birthday
He got a joggling stroller! What a lucky baby!!

2010 comes rolling in...

2010-02-09T09:46:00.000-08:00

Once again, the year is already flying by...I know it's cliche, but we all have to admit it's true. My original goal was to try and update this blog once a week however, it's just not happening. Justin is becoming more demanding of his Mommy and Daddy in a new ways. It used to be the diapers and feeding every two hours, now he just wants us to entertain him and play with him. I guess we still have to feed and change him, so throw that in there too and you've got a really full day.

The latest with Justin (a.k.a. Little Monkey, Biggie Smiles, Bub Bubs, Baby Justin, J.R. and Stinky) is his personality. It is starting to come at us in full force. He has definite likes (peas, tickles, jumping in his jumper, and going for walks) and definite dislikes (prunes, taking naps, and having his nose picked). Last night we had him in his high chair for dinner with us and he was really interested in what we were eating and drinking, so I gave him a sippy cup with water. He grabbed the handles on that cup like he had done it a thousand times before and tipped it back to take a big gulp! He tried to drink so much he started to choke, so I did what any caring parent would do, I took the cup away from him. Bad idea Mommy. That started a whaling session that sounded like I had pinched him instead of save him from what I was sure was him impending death by choking on a sippy cup. I sat there with my mouth hanging open for two reasons. He was mad at me and he knew how to use a cup!!!

Those teeny tiny toes are another favorite right now for teething. I think he likes them so much because they are always there dangling like little candies in front of his face. Needless to say, we go through about three pairs of socks a day. About three bibs too. The drool faucet is leaking right now with no end, or teeth, in sight.

We had another big first last night too. Our baby slept for NINE hours! Wow! I know a lot of parents who say that the first night their baby sleeps all the way through they wake up terrified something is wrong. Well, not us, not here. We were just so thankful to get a full night that I didn't have room for panic.

Here are some recent pics.

Back to Work

2010-01-17T09:40:00.000-08:00

Back to work for Mommy. My first day back to work was on Jan. 7th and it was great!! Thelma (a.k.a. Grandma T) flew in from Portland to stay with us for a while and help us make the transition and put my mind at ease. It is so hard to leave that little guy and let anyone else be in control of him. For all the Moms out there you know exactly what I mean. I never thought it would be so hard to let go and learn to be away from him. It is so important for both of us that we learn to adapt to other people helping us.

Thelma has been so wonderful putting up with my phone calls to check in every day and the million questions I have when I get home. What time did he wake up, how much did he eat, did he play well, how long were his naps? Boring to most, but consuming for me. Justin is so lucky to have such a caring Grandma loving him while we are away.

Justin's First Christmas!

2010-01-01T11:30:00.000-08:00

The West Coast Rueppell Family vacation started on December 22 with a two night trip to Vegas to follow the Oregon State Beavers to their bowl game. I know what everyone is thinking, Vegas? With a baby? Are you Crazy? We thought it would be fun to take a road trip knowing very well that this would not be like the Vegas trips we are accustomed to taking. Maybe we would stay up all night but not because the tables were hot.

We also had an opportunity to visit with Gregg and Alyson Austin (some very dear friends from OR) since they made to trip to see the Beavs too.

Collin and I decided to treat ourselves to a nice suite at the Encore since we brought the Little Monkey with us and knew we would need some room to stretch out a bit. It was really pretty and on the 34th floor with a great view as you can see from the pictures. We overlooked the Wynn and the Wynn golf course which was a favorite for Collin. He was keeping tabs on the amount and times of tee offs. Maybe he was just a little bit jealous.

We made it home late Christmas Eve after a stop at my friend Christa's house. She lives right off the freeway on our way home and since we needed to drop some things off it was perfect. We got to visit for a little bit eat some enchiladas and peach cobbler (weird combo I know, but I'm always begging her to make me peach cobbler). It was pretty late when we got home so we just went straight to bed and waited for Santa to stop by.

The next morning we got up and started to open presents with several breaks for food and naps. I think it took until about 2pm when I finally decided to finish it all up while Justin was sleeping. Sorry kid. Someday, when you read this, know that I love you and you had no idea what was happening so we had to finish without you. :)

Matt, Bethany and MacKenzie hosted us for Christmas dinner. The kids were still in their PJs and looked so cute together. MacKenzie loves to play with "Baby Justin". I think she thinks he's a toy sometimes...soon enough he'll be taking her toys away from her and she might not enjoy his company so much. :0

The latest on our Little Monkey...He had is four month check up at the doctor the week after Christmas. He measured up to 16lbs. 11oz. and 26in. long. Big Boy since he is in the 85th percentile for both. The doctor gave us the go ahead to start solid foods so we have tested the waters with rice cereal. So far, so good even though he wears most of it on his face still. :) I think we'll start with peas very soon. I can't wait to see what kind of face he makes when we give him his first bite. If it is anything like the first spoon of rice cereal it should be in for quite a show with a bunch of sour faces.

Catch Up

2009-12-20T11:18:00.000-08:00

So, It's the week of Christmas already and I haven't blogged in quite a while. I've tried to keep up on it , but the day to day sometimes is just more important. I did have a really long blog all typed up and ready to go when...I accidentally deleted it and had to curse the computer! This is part of the reason why I'm not up to date since I couldn't face starting all over again. At least not then.

I'll start way back at the beginning. On November 14th it was MacKenzie Smith's 2nd birthday. She is the daughter of some very dear friends (and like a niece to us) and we didn't get to see her the weekend of her actual birthday, so we baked a cake the next weekend and took it over to celebrate. She wasn't too sure about the cake getting her all dirty, but she liked the puzzle we got for her. It is supposed to make the sounds of the animals when you put the pieces in but it didn't have any batteries (silly first time mommy didn't think to check before giving the gift). Matt (MacKenzie's Dad) said that it was just fine with him if it stayed quite for a while. :)

Justin worked on making some new faces. He loves sucking on that lower lip!

We watched the Beavers let it slip away :(

We had a photo shoot in the living room for Christmas card pictures

We went to the annual tree trimming party at the Leitner's house. Always a good time!

We found Waldo!!

We also got a visit from my sister, Kristin, who came all the way from Florida State where she is in her senior year. As you will notice from the next pic, she helped out a ton and Justin loved his Auntie! Kristin also managed to help us with decorating the tree. A task that would not have been accomplished if it weren't for my little sis.

The next big event is Justin's four month appointment with the doctor to see how much he has grown. I took him a couple of weeks ago for his cold and he weighed in at 16lbs 6oz which is apparently a little on the big side. At least we know he's not going hungry.

Collin and I have so much to be thankful for this holiday season and that is not something that is lost on us. We wish all our friends and family a blessed season as well.

2009-12-08T13:21:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning to a little boy projectile vomiting all over me and the bed. I can't say anymore other than Justin seemed happy to be up and awake once it was over. Another Mommy first time event recorded for the blog. The End.

Colds=Yuck!!!!

2009-12-02T11:52:00.000-08:00

Well, my friends, it has happened to us...Justin's first cold. Who knew I could feel so yucky because of my own cold and then feel even worse because my precious, untainted little boy has now been infected with his first cold. Runny noses, coughs and sad little tears are filling our home right now and I just hate it!! Pour Justin looks at me in a way that makes my heart break every time he coughs. I wish I could wave my magic wand and make it all disappear.

The first night of his cold he was up every hour crying and wanting to be held. It felt like the first night we brought him home all over again. Last night was better with the crib mattress tilted up so he wouldn't be flat on his back, the humidifier running and Daddy sleeping on the floor of his room (just to be sure there was someone there if he had a coughing attack). Let's hope tonight will be one step better again.

Now I am sitting here with all of my mommy guilt wishing I had washed my hands more, used more hand sanitizer and kept him home where he is safe. Then I realize that no matter what I could have or should have done differently, this day was going to come. The best I can do is just hold him and love him while trying to make him as comfortable as possible.

Minnestoa Here We Come!

2009-11-21T08:38:00.000-08:00

Last week Collin, Justin and I had the opportunity to go to Minnesota for a visit with all of my side of the family and make some needed introductions. Preparations started about a week prior to our trip with lists of things not to forget and lots of laundry. I started the packing around the same time too.

The morning of our trip we had to get out of the house around 5:30am, so I put Justin to bed in his outfit for the next day so he wouldn't need to be jostled around too much. I had all the bags ready to go so we could toss our toiletries in hit the road to our long term parking at LAX (about an hour away).

My biggest concern was that Justin would wake up on the ride to the long term parking place and want to eat. Luckily, he waited until we arrived, but he was hungry. So, I grabbed the baby and Collin grabbed our things and we hopped on the shuttle to the airport. Justin, being hungry as he was, could not wait to eat. So there I sat on the shuttle with a bunch of strangers watching as I struggled to stay covered and nurse my wiggly little boy. Then Collin turned to me and asked, "Did you grab my coat from the car?" and I responded, "No, did you grab my coat?". Just remember that it gets below freezing at night in Minnesota right now, so that was not good. When our flight landed in Minneapolis (after our layover in Seattle) we went straight to the Minnesota store in the airport and bought a sweater for me. Even after my week of packing in advance I somehow managed to forget to pack a sweater.

We really only had that one snafu on the whole trip. Although, Justin had the uncanny ability to fill his pants just as the fasten seat belts sign would go on and the poor people sitting with us were stuck for 20-30 minutes smelling his perfume. Good thing he's cute!

Waiting at the airport between flights

Baby slings are life savers on a trip

Pics with Great Grammy Rose

Four generations

Great Uncle Tom

Great Uncle Bill and Cousin Gina

Minnesota outer wear (California babies are foreign to this) More of the Hoffman Clan

(Great Aunt Jane, Uncle Tom, Uncle Dave and Aunt Laura)

Great Aunt Jane

Collin & Great Uncle Rick
Great Aunt Debbie

Great Grandpa

Great Uncle Rick holding his first baby!!!! Lucky Justin!

Three Months...

2009-11-20T11:45:00.000-08:00

Three months ago I had no idea how my life would change. I no longer worry about my makeup, whether or not I have shaved my legs (although Collin would debate that I may have never cared about that one), getting a pedicure every couple of weeks or which accessories I will wear. In a sense I don't exist anymore...at least not right now. Now my worries are all about a little boy named Justin Ray Rueppell, who is all consuming and the purest joy I've ever known in my life. Today is his three month birthday!

I can never quite catch a smile. He's too quick!

Justin is changing at the speed of light these days. He is discovering his voice, hands and abdominal muscles. He is pretty much cooing whenever he is awake now. He loves to talk back and forth with us as we mimic his noises and faces. His faces are really cute since he has a little dimple on his right cheek and when he is really excited he scrunches up his nose and his eyes turn into little slits. He also has started to flex his body forward like he's curling in to a ball. He almost grabbed his toes a couple of times. I guess it's no wonder he needs 3 or 4 naps a day with all of that learning happening in his tiny little body.

Not only is it hard to catch a smile, but he's constantly moving and I have a hard time getting a clear pic without the flash anymore :)

My life with Collin feels so much more complete now that we have our own little boy to love together. As we fumble through parenting and the challenges it presents us as a couple, we are growing to love each other in a whole new way. It's an intense journey that I couldn't understand until "it" happened to us.

The Many Faces of Justin

2009-11-10T16:13:00.000-08:00

Already November

2009-11-05T07:50:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that we've already slipped into November and I haven't finished posting about October! The time is zooming by and before I know it I will be back at work which is very conflicting for me. I love my job and the people I see everyday but, I also can't imagine leaving my little boy for eight plus hours a day. I know it will be okay and that it's just another "first" we have to experience.

Papa Gary and Judy drove down from Portland, OR to meet Justin two weekends ago and we had a wonderful time. They cooked for us and Judy taught me a recipe for a tomato sauce that was soooo yummy! We also found a great new place to go for breakfast on a golf course. It's up in the hills and makes you feel like your out of the city for a little while. They stopped by the morning they were leaving and I was planning to get a picture with Papa Gary since I had forgotten to do it earlier. However, my memory is not improving quite yet.:) We did get a great pic with Judy...

Gary and Judy even did a little babysitting for us so we could go to a Halloween party. I almost cancelled so I could just stay home because I was really nervous to leave, but I found the strength and it was nice to get out. Of course, I found another woman at the party who has a 16 month old daughter so we talked about our kids the whole night. It was what I needed to do so I wouldn't start obsessing about the baby and wondering if he was okay. By the way, he slept the entire time we were gone. Thanks to loving and trustworthy family members, Collin and I had our first night out since we have become parents.

Here are pics from the party. I was a ladybug, and Collin was the Professor from Gilligan's Island. The group pic is of him with the ladies from one of the offices he calls on.

Last weekend was not only Halloween but a visit from Grandpa Gus and Nana Nancy. They came in from Minnesota for the weekend to meet Justin and see where we live. We drove down to Newport Beach, watched a lot of football, went to our new breakfast spot and celebrated Halloween. It was fun and exhausting for Monkey. He took some really long naps on Monday. :)

Grandpa Gus & Nana Nancy Handed out candy so we could take Justin out to Trick-or-Treat

Our Friends stopped by for candy

Heidi, Audrey( she is four days older than Justin) & Justin

It wasn't all fun

No, I'm not pregnant, that's just my ladybug costume

The little pumpkin

Two Months Old!

2009-10-22T13:19:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official, Justin is two months old and growing like a weed. I took him to see the pediatrician, Dr. Khanna, yesterday and he weighed in at 12lbs. 4.5oz and 23in. Wow! She said he is average height and in the 75th percentile for weight. I guess the breastfeeding is successful. :) Yesterday was also the first time he had to get immunizations. :( I couldn't bear to have him get four shots in one day, so the nurse gave him one oral medication and two shots. We will be going back next week for two more, but I learned a lesson this time. He needs Tylenol BEFORE he gets the shots. He only cried a little when he got the shots ( I didn't cry at all this time, YEAH for Mommy!) but I could tell he was really uncomfortable. Justin then slept the rest of the day away with only a few minutes spent awake to eat, get a diaper change and play a little.

Last weekend Mimi Mary was here to visit and we had a great time. She helped me pick out an outfit for Justin to have some pictures taken and then helped the whole next day when we went to get them done. It took five hours to get the pictures done (I don't even feel like getting into details about why we spent the whole day there, but it was ridiculous) and we got some really beautiful shots. The company sends you home with the pics that day and even puts some into frames for you. It's really nice to be able to come home and put the pictures on the wall right away. That was another new mommy first where we learned some valuable lessons for next time.

October Fun

2009-10-13T12:08:00.000-07:00

Well, October has been off to a strong start and I can't believe we are almost halfway through the month already. We have had a lot happen and a lot is coming up soon.

Justin is sleeping in his own crib in his own room all night long! For anyone who has children, you know what a change that brings when you are used to being half awake all night listening to your baby coo. Now I hear him when he is really ready to wake up and eat, not just when he is moving in and out of REM. Collin and I are sleeping so much more soundly and I have a feeling Justin is too. He slept for six hours straight one night! He hasn't repeated that yet, but he is definitely sleeping longer stretches.

Last Sunday was a trip to Tanaka Farm with Matt, Bethany and MacKenzie. Justin slept through most of it, but it was really fun to watch MacKenzie run through the pumpkin patch and try to talk to the scarecrows.

This weekend Nana Mary is coming to visit and we are getting some professional pictures taken while we have some extra hands to help. Then next week Justin will be having his two month appointment with Dr. Khanna so we will get to see how big he is growing (which seems to be really big by the way). That weekend we will be getting a visit from Papa Gary and Judy who will be helping out with a bit of babysitting so Collin and I can go to a Halloween party. :) Then, the last weekend of October will be filled with fun and a visit from Grandpa Gus and Nana Nancy to help us celebrate Halloween.

Our trip to Tanaka Farm

Road Trip

2009-10-07T16:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a big day for Justin and Mommy. We had our first road trip to visit with Nicole Strong and two of her three kids (the oldest is in kindergarten now, so she was otherwise engaged). Anyway, they live in Thousand Oaks, CA, which is 70mi away according to google maps and an eternity away for a first time mom who has never driven more than seven miles alone with a baby in the car. YIKES!!! We tried to leave by 10am and made it out the door only 15mins. late thanks to help from Collin. As soon as we pulled out of the driveway, guess who started to fuss? Yup, you guessed it, the Little Monkey. Then I promptly began to panic and wonder if I should pull over, is he hungry, does he need his diaper changed, should I just turn around and call it a day? Well, I just kept driving in hopes that his crying wouldn't turn in to screaming and I was lucky. He slept most of the way there with occasional squirming and grunting which made me tense every time. The drive home was exactly the same but with more anxiety on my part since I didn't want to get stuck in afternoon traffic in the middle of LA.

In the middle of these two tremendous trips was a really nice visit with a friend I almost never get to see anymore. We started in ultrasound school and shared a lot of firsts. Nicole had a baby, I got married, we graduated and both got jobs...lots of big events. :) Now, years later, she has three kids and I have one, and we both still love doing ultrasound.

I forgot to pull out the camera while we were there, but here are some other recent pics.

One morning we went out for coffee. Justin was wondering "What's on my head"?

My friend Kelly

The Moby Wrap

Early morning with Mommy. It looks like it too!!!

A Beaver fan! GO OSU!!

All Smiles

2009-10-02T10:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Justin smiled at his Mommy for the first time! It was something I have been waiting for, so I was thrilled to finally get a response for all my silly faces. There were two smiles in a row that just appeared out of nowhere. I was so happy I teared up knowing that I will never get another first smile. But, that's alright since I'm looking forward to more of those dimpled little grins. Now I'm trying to get another smile for a photo. Who knows how soon that will happen since babies have a mind of their own!

Many Thanks to Friends and Loved Ones

2009-09-29T12:17:00.000-07:00

Collin & I would like to thank everyone for all of your support during this time in our lives. It's very easy to get overwhelmed with the day to day of having a newborn but it's been made so much easier with advice and help from all of you. We are thinking of everyone often but it's just so hard to get to the phone like we used to. The hugs, congratulations, quick questions answered about breastfeeding and sleeping, gifts, and food have help us to navigate all of this territory that was so foreign just a couple of weeks ago. So, to our family, friends, neighbors and co-workers who have been so important in our lives, know that we deeply appreciate all the help you've given. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.:)

5 Weeks Old

2009-09-29T12:13:00.000-07:00

Justin has hit the 5 week mark and I can hardly believe we've made it this far. I was talking with a friend last night about the first days of having a baby and how much anxiety there was. Wondering if he's eating enough, cold or hot, does he have gas, why is he crying, will I ever sleep again? It's nice to feel like things are calming down and we are getting to know each other better every day.

We had a big week here. Collin had to go out of town for the night and Justin and I were on our own...ALL NIGHT! I was scared out of my mind and did a lot of crying/worrying, but with many phone calls and visits with friends, I found the courage and made it through. So did Justin. :)

Little Monkey also had his first bottle of breast milk last week and has had two more since. I was really difficult for me to watch him sucking on a bottle for the first time, but Collin and Justin got to do some bonding which was great to see. He took to it like he didn't even know the difference between bottle and breast. I understand that it's a good thing so he will be able to eat even when I'm not here, however it pulled at my heart. I guess it's a first time mommy thing.

The simultaneously loved and hated bottle

It also appears that Justin has started to discover his hands this week. When I put him on the playmat he starts reaching (or at least I think he's reaching) for the toys dangling above him. I even found him staring at his hand the other day. It's really cute!

Who's the Boss? Isn't that Mommy & Daddy's bed?!

There's my thumb

What day is it? Week 4 1/2

2009-09-21T11:56:00.000-07:00

So, as you can tell by the title of this post, I officially don't know what day it is anymore. This little boy is keeping me busy...and keeping me from posting more often. :) Justin is napping right now which is something I should be doing too, but I really needed a shower and to get a few things accomplished today. The good news is that we try not to keep it quiet around here at nap time and that means I still get to listen to Colbie Caillat, Rascal Flats, and whatever else is popping up on the ipod.

Zzzzzz...
Little Monkey is starting to nap in his crib right now

We had a busy weekend and went to a party at a friends house (by "busy" I mean that we had one activity planned). There were a ton of people there and it was fun to be out in the world. However, we were 2 1/2hours late getting there since Justin decided he wanted to eat, poop, and sleep before we could hit the road. Once we were there we only stayed for about 2 hours before I needed to go home. I was having sensory overload with all of that activity swirling around me. We left the party just as a tournament of beer pong was getting started. Too bad we couldn't enter this year. Times they are a changing.

Justin has started having daily exercise and play time on his play mat. He really likes to be there kicking his little legs and moving his arms. Yesterday it seemed like he might even be reaching for one of the toys. It's a parrot that hangs down and the tail feathers make crinkle noises and have different textures. I helped him reach it and rubbed the different textures on his skin. He just cooed away kicking a bunch. The mat has a mirror in the corner for him to look at and little lights with music that plays under the mirror. It's really fun to watch him learn to play and make noises.

And a few more pics

Day 21, Three Weeks Old

2009-09-10T12:03:00.000-07:00

Today marks Justin's third week of life and we couldn't be more proud. There have been a few things that have changed since the last post, so lets see if I can remember them.

1. Last week at his two week appointment Justin was up to 7lbs 10oz which was pretty amazing since only four days earlier he weighed in at 7lbs 2oz. I was a little nervous that he wouldn't make weight for Dr. Khanna, but he packed on the ounces with ease. He's finally starting to fill out all of that loose skin and his cheeks are growing plumper.

2. Justin had is first shot at the doctor's office. I cried more than he did which everyone else thought was really funny. I just felt the hormones rushing through me once again. :) When it was time to take the little bandage off I thought it would be a good idea to do it while he was nursing so that he would be comforted if it hurt. Once again, I cried more than he did when I saw the little red circle of irritated skin.

3. We gave our little monkey his first bath that he enjoyed. All the other ones have included screaming and shivering. He just looked around and let his Grandma T and me pour warm water all over him. Maybe we finally got the water temperature right. HA HA!!

Those are the key things I can remember for now. Each day is passing so quickly now and I'm so engrossed with his needs that I don't even know what day it is most of the time. I'm lucky to shower and get dressed by 11am. I hear that changes after a while and I hope it's true. Justin would probably appreciate a clean smelling mom a little earlier in the day. It's all worth every moment.

My Boys

Better than milk

Day 14, Two Weeks Old!!!

2009-09-03T11:09:00.000-07:00

These have been the most emotional, exhausting and exhilarating two weeks of my life. Our little monkey has made it to day 14 and the most amazing part is that we have too! Collin, Justin and I have been falling into a routine at night where I get Justin up and nurse him, Collin changes his diaper and then we try to eat some more. When he is full, I put him on my chest and drift off while Collin waits a few minutes and then puts Justin in his bassinet. So far so good, but it's definitely getting harder to open up my eyes in the dark when I start to hear the squawking. If he could only sleep just a little longer...oh wishful thinking.

The biggest news since our last post is that on day 10 Justin lost his little belly button. We were on a walk and stopped by our friends house to catch up when Collin saw a little something on the sidewalk. To our surprise, it was the button! It must have come off when we were picking him out of his car seat and passing him around. As soon as we got home, I put it in a little baggie not knowing what to do with it and I wasn't willing to let it go yet. It's still in that baggie.

So, now that there is no belly button, we got to give Justin his first real bath last night. He didn't scream nearly as much as I thought he would. I think he might have actually liked it a little. We did learn a few lessons. Next time we will have warmer water and a better set up for the tub since it doesn't really fit in the sink very well and it made for an interesting splash during the tubby.

Things just keep moving along and I can't believe it's already been two weeks. Tomorrow is his two week appointment with Dr. Khanna so we are hoping all goes well.

Here are some more pics...

Little Monkey

Big Guy and Justin

After a good meal

Snuggle time with Mommy

My first bath

Day 6, My First Mommy Blog

2009-08-26T09:47:00.000-07:00

Well, it's the morning of day 6 and we are feeling pretty good. My Dad is here and made fresh cinnamon rolls for breakfast so we have full bellies and we only got up two times last night. YEAH! Now that we have milk, we are all sleeping a little easier. However, with the milk comes a mess. Milk face and dirty diapers. We gave Justin a bath this morning to clean up all that mess and he decided to give us a shower too! Good thing I had the towel covering him so we didn't get pee pee everywhere.

Yesterday was a big trip to the pediatrician to have his new baby exam. Everything checks out great. Collin and I were feeling a little concerned on our way there since Justin hadn't pooped in a day and a half, but WOW did he make up for that. While we were in the waiting room, Justin was working on a big surprise. A diaper full of poop! I have never laughed so hard over or been more excited about a dirty diaper. The clean up was a two man job with more wipes than we were prepared to use, but it was relieving to know that the pipes are working.

It seems like we are starting to get into a little routine with each day being easier than the last. We are learning new things about each other everyday and our love of our family grows deeper. I haven't figured out how to express my feelings about being a mom because they are so overwhelming and wonderful in a way that I couldn't have imagined. I already wish I could go back and relive parts of this experience where the memories are fading, but I know there is so much more to come.

Here are some of my favorite pics from the week...

Hours before the little monkey arrived

I didn't believe it when Collin told me he had a cone head. Guess I was wrong:)

Love at first sight

First pic with Nana Mary

A proud Daddy

More with Nana Mary

First time in the car seat

My new glider chair is getting worn in pretty quick!

Nice and relaxed

First pic with Grandpa a.k.a. "Big Guy"

So peaceful

We're Home!

2009-08-22T18:48:00.000-07:00

Justin is happy (as long as he is eating or sleeping) and healthy. He had a long morning, as they were running a series of tests and such to make sure he was ready to leave the hospital, and is a bit fussy as a result.

He is eating really well and is taking some really fun pictures for us...take a look...

Leaving the Hospital

2009-08-22T18:31:00.000-07:00

Wow! There was a lot of action in the hospital when we were trying to discharge. We finally were able to get the baby sensor cut off the ankle and were able to put on his clothes (which are WAY TOO BIG-haha). We departed about an hour later than we were trying, but it was nice to see the outside world again.

Justin was in good spirits when leaving and fell asleep immediately as we drove away.

A safe drive home and lots of fun to see him in the car with us!

Uh Oh

2009-08-21T22:08:00.000-07:00

Justin just 'woke up' while feeding. For the first time he was REALLY feeding, not just going through the motions and taking some in.

As we arrived to the nursery for drop off (to get some sleep) the nurse warned us that he is going to want to eat tonight and to "sleep fast"

YIKES

Day 1

2009-08-21T15:24:00.000-07:00

I don't really have much to report...

He is eating, he is pooping and he is sleeping; things are well.

The other new families to either side of our room have left today, so it is much more quiet right now. We are about to walk by the nursery to see if and how many birthdays are today!

Off to the Chopping Block

2009-08-21T07:15:00.000-07:00

Justin and myself just met the Pediatrician, Dr. Khanna. She is very sweet and has a terrific bedside manner, just another positive in this whole experience.

Justin may not think she is so great as she whisked him away to the Nursery for his circumcision!

Sleepless Nights????

2009-08-21T06:21:00.000-07:00

Nobody told us about the sleepless nights! :)

Or, was it that every single one of you have talked about that? Last night was an hour here, a few hours there of hardcore sleep. I can't recall a single dream (first time in a long time I have slept so incredibly deep) nor can mom. However, her baby "crydar" was in effect last night as she kept hearing other babies in the unit.

Justin is incredible and eager to learn how to feed; it's going pretty well (we think).

It was so great to hear from everyone last night and/or to see who signed on to follow us on this site. Thanks again for all the support and we are looking forward to showing him off to each of you.

Features

2009-08-20T22:03:00.000-07:00

Well, Heidi decided it would be cute to mimic the 'pouty' lip.

You all tell me....Schumann bottom lip or what?

Positioning

2009-08-20T21:31:00.000-07:00

Interesting tidbit

Through Heidi's Ultrasounds, months of feeling all the activity of the little guy and seeing multiple pictures of Justin, this was his position of choice whle in utero!

Audience

2009-08-20T21:19:00.001-07:00

Well, during Justin's first bath I was able to hear what his lungs were made of....let's just say I never want to make him mad! I think we'll just come back here anytime he starts crying and take him to Nurse Sharon, after all she's the one that started it!

I can truly appreciate the fact he already has an audience of good lookin females!

That's my boy

Wow

2009-08-20T21:11:00.001-07:00

Indescribable

Well, that was a truly uniqe experience, and was so amazing to watch Heidi and I enter Parenthood.

We are thrilled and already exhausted to be here :)

This is a picture of our little Justin sleeping soundly next to Heidi's bed; all the while we hear another newborn somewhere else screaming away.......ooooooooooo now that is scary.

Justin Ray Rueppell

2009-08-20T17:30:00.000-07:00

HERE HE IS!!!!!

5pm on the dot!
21.5 inches
7lbs 9oz
Conehead like crazy

Labor went great...nurse was excellent and Heidi had about 3 contractions and he was out (maybe 9 pushes)!

Stay tuned

WHAT???!!!!

2009-08-20T14:51:00.000-07:00

SHE'S AT 10!!!!!!!!!

Well, I just went outside to call and update all you family members and this is what I get...a call to say come back in, she just measured 10! So, thanks for that...Donna! haha

Now we are back in, they just rolled in 2 more furnishings, so apparently Justin will be coming soon...Cool!

An assitant is here prepping the warming table....lots of blue gowns and sheeting is also entering.

Mom is thinking ETA is a couple of hours

An eery calm is filling the room

Another One

2009-08-20T13:59:00.000-07:00

Here are the contractions. On the bottom row you should be able to see how consistent they have been.

Well, Heidi is now at 6cm. The bad...Justin is head down but turned and facing forward, he needs to face back! So she is having to flip from side to side every 30-60mins. This is actually quite fun to watch because of the Epidural controlling her legs and not the person :)

Heidi is still feeling well, the meds are keeping the pain away and she is able to progress nicely.

Lunch was good, as was the ice cream I got....mmmmmm ice creeeeam

ZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzz

2009-08-20T12:16:00.000-07:00

Everything is going fine. She's still feeling well from the Epidural, and her shaking has subsided. Now Heidi is relaxing...

Time for the girl to sleep...blinds are drawn...

WooHoo

2009-08-20T10:51:00.001-07:00

EPIDURAL!

Heidi went through a serious contraction phase...really strong, pain up to a level of 8 out of 10 at times, and the frequency was 2-3mins.

The doc came in and Heidi felt relief from the pain by the 2nd contraction!

Wawa

2009-08-20T08:46:00.001-07:00

Dr. Woodard just made his morning appearance and decided it was time to 'Break the Bag'!

Heidi and Justin are both doing really well. Heidi is very interactive with the nurses and the doc, oh and me too! We had some time to relax this morning, so I took advantage with a little cat nap, and at least Heidi was able to close her eyes.

She's having a good contraction right now...

My guess is that she is in Labor :)

3:30am

2009-08-20T05:59:00.000-07:00

Wow is that early! We left the house right on time this morning, traffic was light and Heidi's arm just got stuck for fluids to get pumped in.

In the background is Justin's audible HB (between 125 and 144). She had a contraction about 10 mins ago and had many throughout the fairly sleepless night. It was neat to see the contraction on the monitor and establish a "baseline" (only to escalate).

So, the wait begins......

August 19th

2009-08-19T10:26:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are. Another day passes and no baby yet. The good news is that tomorrow morning at 5:30am we have an appointment to go to the hospital and work on getting him out. Am I ever ready!!!

Today is full of last minute details that need to be taken care of like laundry, packing for the hospital and getting the car washed. Collin has been up since 2:45am working on all of these things since he can't sleep either with all of the anticipation.

It has been kind of strange thinking about the change that is coming. It's our last day just the two of us. Its been this way for so long, but I can't wait to make the change. I couldn't ask for a better partner in life. Now we get to be parents together. :)

August 17th

2009-08-17T17:37:00.000-07:00

Heidi had great nights of sleep over the weekend (first good nights in a few weeks), however, the good nights were quickly dashed by last night's bad night :(

The good news is today she is contracting A LOT and more frequent than she has experienced, however, they are not consistent. Justin has visibly 'dropped' as Heidi is having some new aches and pains. It's pretty surreal to see the physical change in her belly, as she is more full closer to her waistline.

There she goes, again, writing down the time of another start to a contraction!

Stay tuned...

2009-08-15T11:51:00.000-07:00

Collin, Heidi and Baby

This our official first blog! Yeah!! I am just starting to figure it all out and which buttons to push, but it's really fun. I am hoping that this will be a great way to start documenting our family and keeping everyone posted on what's going on with one of the "West Coast Rueppell Families."

As you can all see, my belly is ever expanding and stretching. We just took this picture a few days ago, but it's already grown some more. Good for the baby, uncomfortable for me. My due date August 23rd, but at my appointment last week Dr. Woodard let me schedule an induction for August 20th. Knowing there is an end in sight is such a relief. I think the hardest part of the last trimester of pregnancy is not knowing when your going to pop. Well, I guess we still don't know, but at least we have an idea. :)