HUDSON'S NEWS

New Year

2010-01-03T18:45:00.001-08:00

Man, it has been since September since I last blogged. I guess my plan of action to blog more hasn't really materialized quite yet. Maybe that will be my one and only resolution this year.....hmmm....

The last couple of months have been crazy - we have been really busy. Hudson started at a new bilingual montessori school in November. It was a big adjustment for him (and us). Just as he was getting used to the teachers we went on Christmas break. He starts back tomorrow - I really hope it won't take long before he is adjusted again. I don't know how much more I can take of him crying every morning when we drop him off! Ugh, just breaks my heart. Once he is there, he loves it and every time I pick him up he is running around laughing and playing.

Our Christmas was really low key. Hudson enjoyed opening gifts this year - especially his choo choo...he really likes trains. Right up there with trains are cars. He makes the "vroom vroom" sound and pushes his cars everywhere. Grandma and Grandpa Simmons got him a remote control fire truck that he is quickly learning how to manuever. The big hit was the Mr. Potato Head. Twice now he is has brought me "Tato" with his arm on top of his head...Hudson said, "Momma, hat?"...um no...but I like to encourage his artistic side...LOL.

In the last week, someone hit the "on" switch because Hudson has been talking up a storm. He is learning new words every day it seems. He really is growing fast. I am having the best time right now, in this stage (even though he can throw some fits on me) he really is growing into a little boy right before my eyes. :)

This is him at Red Robin today for lunch. He got a new year's haircut...I am partial to the longer hair but it is so fine, like mine, that is rats up in the back and is a pain to comb. It is a faux hawk cut, but here he looks like he is shipping off to basic training.

We are in our cold months here in the big Ol' AK and the darkest. I need to push through two months of cold and darkness and then ALOHA! Maui here comes the Willises and the Todds...so looking forward to a relaxing vacation in the sun.

WoW! WoW! Everybody!

2009-09-14T23:19:00.000-07:00

I have come out of the Facebook haze...it took a 12-step program, but I made it out. It's about time we got back to blogging about important things, like my child's development. LOTS has been going on this summer. We were busy, busy, busy. We went to Southern California in May as a family and then I went to Northern California to meet my Texas girls for a girls camping trip. I got to see my Cousin Jen too which was bonus! We finished our kitchen (finally) and stained our front and back porches - two projects that I am glad are over! The summer slowly has turned to fall here. I love the fall here. I love the cool crisp air and the fall colors. However, this means that we are headed into a long winter. I think that I am going to venture out and try some cross country skiing. We will see how far I can go pulling the little man. We are looking forward to our March trip to Hawaii...something to make the winter go by faster!

Hudson is growing so fast. He is talking up a storm - he defintely has found his voice! He recently found the "t.v." and has become obsessed with the Noggin show "Wow Wow Wubbzy!" This is a must see every night in our house. So much so that Hudson grabs the remote and aims it at the TV and says "Wuzzy". He gets quite excited when the music comes on and does a little Wubbzy jig. He has a very unique personality (LOL - look at his parents) and I have been told several times that Hudson makes my "faces". I took this picture today after I picked him up. He likes to climb in the front seat and drive. He picked up my glasses and put them on and waved! Oh boy!

Nose is healing after surfing down the stairs...

2009-08-16T23:43:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th of July!!!

2009-07-05T23:07:00.000-07:00

4th of July...Here we come!!!

2009-07-03T01:27:00.000-07:00

Hittin the road for 4th of July at Nancy Lake, Sunshine, Beer, BBQ, and a Long Weekend of Midnight Sunshine!

Random Cali Picz

2009-06-20T22:45:00.000-07:00

I am Tiger Woods

2009-06-20T22:37:00.000-07:00

Hudson LOVES his new golf set and is already a better golfer than Daddy!

Jayden's B-Day Extravaganza

2009-06-20T22:34:00.000-07:00

2009-05-04T23:08:00.000-07:00

Hudson loves playing a game of badmitton!
Hudson is all packed up for Cali...

Kitchen Remodel

2009-04-26T23:10:00.000-07:00

Before....
During....

Stay Tuned for the countertops and backsplash

Spring Clean-up!

2009-04-26T23:08:00.000-07:00

2009-04-13T22:02:00.000-07:00

First Easter Egg Hunt...Still snowing in Alaska = Indoors

The Cousins and Aunt Leah..a day after Jayden smashed her hand in the door and had to have surgery.

He likes Chili Mac!

Checkpoint - 13 mos

2009-03-17T15:07:00.000-07:00

In honor of the Iditarod, I am posting about Hudson's arrival at his current checkpoint, 13 mos. It has been awhile since I have posted anything besides pictures. Having a toddler keeps me busy! Hudson had his 12 mos check up recently, and he measured 75-80% in height and 20% in weight. Yeah, I said 2-0%. I asked his Dr. if I should be worried and he just replied, "I would kill for this kid's metabolism". So I guess I got a long, lean kid on my hands. Gee, I wonder where he gets it? He continues to explore and push his boundaries. Our current struggle is climbing on EVERYTHING. I recently found him on top of the kitchen table. Needless to say, he has alot of bruises and I have to do alot of explaining! He consistently says, "Mom, Dad, Hi, Bye, Whoa, Boo, and Yeah and No". He likes any and all gadgets. The first thing he does when he comes home from "school" is get BOTH remotes and aim them at the TV. He also likes my iPhone (yeah, I let him play with it - shoot me). He especially likes the Light Saber app and will swing the phone to make the sound. He thinks he is pretty cool.
Lastly, he went in last week for his first haircut! He now is sporting a faux hawk. He looks too cute! I will post the pics as soon as my hairdresser sends me the photos (I forgot my camera!). Toodles for now!

Roller Jam and Iditarod Weekend!

2009-03-07T16:23:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day

2009-02-14T23:01:00.000-08:00

Party Animal

2009-02-08T16:16:00.000-08:00

It's my party and I'll cry if I want to!

Standing up in his highchair after devouring some cake

362 days old!

2009-02-05T22:38:00.000-08:00

...and a talker!

2009-01-21T19:24:00.000-08:00

Sometime around Christmas he decided that "mama" wasn't sufficient so he started saying "mom". He likes to yell this and wait for me to answer him and then start babbling.
His other new "words" are: whoa, dada, and bye bye (you really have to be creative to buy this one but he says it when he waves).
He also likes to point and say "dop". This could be either stop or no. But he uses his pointer at me and he makes sure I hear him. Pretty sure that one is going to come to an end. :)

We have a walker, folks!

2009-01-11T22:50:00.000-08:00

I am calling it - Hudson has entered into the walking world. After he took his first steps before Christmas, it only took a couple of days and he was off to the races. We will post a video soon for all you visual people! Not only does he walk, but he likes to climb and not only climb, but climb into things. This has caused me a little heartburn because he is fearless and I don't want a brain damaged child! His favorite place is his shopping cart that he got for Christmas! He likes to perch in his cart and laugh. He also climbs on the fireplace, the stairs, any toys he can push over, frying pans, laundry baskets, and dresser drawers. Oh boy!

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas

2008-12-25T18:12:00.000-08:00

Shopping in a Winter Wonderland...First steps in the snow

Anybody up for an Alaskan style BBQ?

Delicious Prime Rib and the Humble Chef

10 1/2 months milestone

2008-12-25T13:48:00.000-08:00

Just FYI - Hudson took his first steps on the 23rd. Now it may have been only two steps between Jeremy and I but they were legit. He is up to 5 steps today (Christmas) and I am sure that the progress will rapidly increase. We will post pictures of Christmas fun a little later.

Christmas Morning

Christmas Eve

There's always that one guy at the Christmas party who doesn't know when to quit drinking

Rockin' around the Christmas Tree

2008-12-14T22:06:00.000-08:00

Texas Igloo

2008-12-05T21:22:00.000-08:00

If You're Gonna Play In Texas...

2008-12-04T21:14:00.000-08:00

How bout dem Seahawks

2008-12-04T21:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Haloween

2008-11-01T14:55:00.000-07:00

7:45pm After a wild night (see below) daddy cleaned me up to take some pics

2008-10-22T22:11:00.000-07:00

Wednesday Oct. 22 6:15pm to 7:08pm...just the boys at home

2008-10-22T22:08:00.000-07:00

Mark it on your calendars (or not)

2008-10-05T17:56:00.001-07:00

It is snowing right now here in Anchor-town. Hudson is not sure what it is going on. Pictures to come.

Shaq brings down the backboard....Hudson's first dunk

2008-10-05T15:58:00.000-07:00

He likes to watch daddy mow the grass

2008-10-05T15:56:00.000-07:00

After daddy took the Pepsi cup away...

2008-10-05T15:55:00.000-07:00

Well we haven't posted much lately. We have been busy! Hudson is growing up so fast, it is hard to keep up with him. He will be 8 months on October 8th. He is extremely active. He HAS to stand up all the time and play with his toys on the ottoman. He doesn't like to sit much. He is crawling, climbing, and exploring all the time. He really likes his gadgets - the phone, remote, laptop, etc. He is truly his daddy's boy. I am guessing that he will be walking very soon!
He now has 5 teeth, 2 on top (his Michael Strahan teeth!) and three on the bottom. He is a pretty good eater; he is eating two "meals" a day and pretty much likes everything! He especially likes anything that daddy has in his lap - beer, pop. He gets made if he can't hold the bottle.
He talks alot and is still a happy baby! He wakes up cheerful in the morning that I have to remind myself that I actually gave birth to him because that is not me! HA! He has yet another thing in common with his daddy! (If I had a quarter for every time someone said he looked like Jeremy, Hudson's college would be paid for!)

Halloween Costume Ideas

2008-10-05T15:54:00.000-07:00

Hurricane Ike Mooner

2008-10-05T15:52:00.000-07:00

Sisters at Carrie Underwood Concert

2008-10-05T15:50:00.000-07:00

My sisters and I headed to Seattle a couple of weeks ago to see Carrie Underwood. She was playing at the Puyallup Fair. We had a blast! The fair was fun and the concert was excellent. Carrie can sing...you have to respect someone who can get up with no lights and explosions and just use their natural talent. After the concert, we shopped, shopped, shopped! Leah found some great dresses for Homecoming and Jamie well, she was a total spaz! She had to put stuff in our suitcases to get it all home. It was such a special weekend - our first "sisters" trip. We decided that we were going to make it a yearly affair. We will see what is playing at the fair next year!

2008-09-21T22:31:00.000-07:00

Rollin' in my classic ride

2008-08-17T22:41:00.000-07:00

....waving at the ladies, rollin on dub's, and stickin my tounge out at the playa haters.

Family Portraits

2008-08-17T22:37:00.000-07:00

2008-08-06T15:57:00.000-07:00

6 Months

2008-08-06T14:46:00.001-07:00

2008-07-23T19:02:00.000-07:00

Hudson is 5 1/2 months old! I really don't have any exciting stories to tell of him because we are pretty much creatures of habit. We work, come home, play, eat, and go to bed. So here are some of his milestones in a nutshell: But first, the top pics are when mommy dresses him, the bottom pics are when daddy does. Hmmm....Okay back to his stats: He is becoming more active with his play - he really likes to hit things that play music. He loves his exer-saucer and the TV and Wii remotes. He likes Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and the Little Einsteins on the Disney Channel. He loves to help Little Rocket and Mickey solve problems. He is very close to being able to sit up and stay up on his own which goes hand and hand with his play. It isn't all that fun rolling around on the floor. Both of his bottom teeth have come in. He likes to chomp down on anything that crosses his path. He has learned to scream. I think he got this from daycare as the little girl went through a growling and screaming phase (she is now into please and thank you so that is a nice change). He is sleeping through the night now - 8pm to 7am! We are so lucky! Sometimes we even have to wake him up in the morning! This makes my day easier as I am able to focus at work and not be so fuzzy-headed from lack of sleep. His next appointment is in a couple of weeks - I can't wait to see how tall he is and how much he weighs - I think he is going through another growth spurt because in addition to his 10 hours of sleep a night he is taking 3 hour naps during the day. Watch out, daddy long legs in the house!

Splish Splash Eyelash

2008-07-13T22:23:00.001-07:00

2008-07-02T23:17:00.000-07:00

You gotta little something right there...

2008-06-29T22:41:00.000-07:00

Hudson is getting the hang of the eating thing. He is opening his mouth to take a bite and has even started to say "mmm" when he eats. Yesterday at "dinner" he was so hungry he started eating the tray on his high chair. We couldn't quite get that on film. He is a hungry hippo for sure! I can't wait to introduce veggies and fruits, that should make diaper changing fun!

Chiclets

2008-06-29T22:29:00.000-07:00

Hudson is getting his first toofers! He has been cranky the last couple of weeks, totally out of his norm. For awhile now I have been wondering if he is teething because he is constantly drooling and chewing on everything. Everyone poo-poo'd me and said it was too early for him to be teething. Well, last week Miss Melinda, his sitter, told me that he was extra fussy. She said he grabbed her finger and was trying to gnaw on it and she felt something sharp. AHA! So when we got him home sure enough there it was, his first chiclet.
My dad doesn't remember anything about me as a kid and well, I can't ask my mom so I told Jeremy to call up his mom to see when he got his first tooth. Sure enough, he got his first tooth at 4 and 1/2 months. There you go. Mini Me is going to be like his dad in every way.

His Girls

2008-06-22T22:52:00.000-07:00

Our friends Kara and Jason brought home their twin girls on Father's Day after one month in the hospital. They are adorable. Hudson has been dying to meet "his girls"...if only he wore his "Ladies Man" shirt to the party. He IS the man.

Little Scotsman

2008-06-22T22:45:00.000-07:00

Okay so its not really a Scottish hat per se, but he looks very international anyway and he looks so darn cute.

Camo and Pink

2008-06-19T23:02:00.000-07:00

It's a small world

2008-06-19T22:53:00.000-07:00

I have been catching up on the baby blogs and it is great to see how well everyone is doing and looking! Cute babies, good looking moms :) It is great to hear how all the babies are developing and how much fun the moms are having with their tots.

Hudson just got over his first cold that he brought home to the family from daycare. It was a doozy. On top of the crankiness and dripping snot, he had his shots and spiked a fever. Fun. Nothing like "probing" for a temperature. Whew. Luckily, the Tylenol brought the fever down just in time for two days of barfing. I have never seen so much vomit come out of such a small being (and I am the barfing queen). His first episode completely drenched his car seat. When I got him out of the bath and in his jammies, he "tangled" with our comforter and the comforter lost. After I changed him, me, and the bed, he had enough energy to create the stinkiest diaper ever. I had to use protective gear. After that he was wiped out and fell asleep. Nothing like a virus-filled week of fun.

When he is feeling normal, he is a great sleeper and eater. We put him down at 8pm and he gets up about 2am and then again at 6am. We have adjusted to this sleep pattern and in the next couple of months I think he will drop the 2am feeding. He has his dad's metabolism (because he is hungry all the time) and small bladder (because he can soak a diaper!) I like to say that he is wiry.

He finally likes sitting up in his Bumbo, just for a little bit though...that's his pink Bumbo, he is a metrosexual.

4, count em, 4 months old

2008-06-12T21:59:00.000-07:00

Update: 14lbs and 26 3/8 inches long. Dr. T told me at his check up that I have a "lean, mean fighting machine". Jeremy can finally sigh with relief that his kid is now in the 90% for height. Here are some things Hudson has been up to in the last couple of weeks accompanied by pics...

We started him on rice cereal after the go ahead from the doctor. I told Dr. T that I thought he was ready and he asked what signs did he give us and I said, "well, he about ripped a corn on the cob off his dad's plate!" That did it. So we have started out with just a little cereal in the evenings before his bedtime bottle. He hasn't quite got the hang of opening his mouth all the way. He sticks out his tongue - kind of like a bank teller - to receive his little treat, but it doesn't all make it in his mouth. The biggest battle though is he wants the spoon so after a couple of bites I let him try it himself.

He has been busy growing his hair out...okay, maybe not. He is all business in the front, party in the back.

He is still a smiley, happy baby. He recognizes himself in the mirror and giggles when he sees himself...and....he still looks like his daddy.

Rocket Man comes to Anchorage

2008-05-31T00:44:00.000-07:00

Elton John made Alaska the 49th U.S. state he has played in. We were fortunate to get 6 tickets to the concert, which set a record for the fastest a concert has sold out in Anchorage. Elton was so amazed at the demand for tickets he announced a second show 2 nights later that sold out just as quickly. I took some amature video from our seats, and just missed the shot of him autographing a woman's bra.

Almost 4 Months Old

2008-05-31T00:37:00.000-07:00

He thinks he is a big boy and tries to dress himself...

three months

2008-05-19T22:58:00.000-07:00

We haven't posted in awhile mainly because I went back to work a few weeks ago and am trying to adjust to life as a working mom. Whew! I am tired. Hudson is doing really well in daycare - every day when I pick him up he is smiling and happy. He continues to be a little ham, laughing and giggling. His newest feat is well, his feet. He loves to put his feet in his mouth, with or without socks!

Kickin' it at the Crib watchin' the M's game

2008-04-16T22:35:00.000-07:00

Can you see me? I am rollin' camo style.

Bath Time

2008-04-10T22:20:00.000-07:00

Diary Entry: 2 month Check Up

2008-04-07T19:56:00.000-07:00

Date 4/7/08 - my uncle Bob's birthday!
Number of feedings - off the charts - I am in a growth spurt. My mommy is sleep deprived.
Height: 23 1/2 inches - and my dad thinks I am going to be short!
Weight: 12 lbs - note to self, stop eating so much milk. My mommy said I am a keeper, that she wouldn't throw me back into the water. Apparently she compares me to salmon.
Head Circumference: 40th percentile - hmmm....size does not matter (see below)
Development: I am doing many things at a 4 month old level. Dr. T said to my mommy that she has "an athlete on her hands"
Hiccup: I have a tinge of a lazy eye. I didn't get this from my mommy as she repeatedly told me in the car ride home. I will have to see a baby eye doctor to have this corrected.
Overall well-being: Good disposition, good sleeper and eater, slightly grumpy after three shots. Ouch!

2008-04-05T21:05:00.000-07:00

TWO MONTHS OLD

We woke one morning to this drunken sailor passed out in his bed. He must've had too much from his favorite tap.

Hudson is pretty strong. He has held his head up since he was a couple of weeks old. So for fun, we put him in the exer-saucer and found that his feet touched the bottom already! Notice, he is losing his hair in much the same fashion as his daddy!

Tagged

2008-03-31T19:44:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by Ro so here it goes...I am going to tag Deela, Michelle, and Dana (my only other fellow bloggers).

1. link to the person who tagged you.
2. post the rules.
3. share 6 non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself.
4. tag at least 3 people.
5. make sure the people you tagged know you tagged them by commenting to them.

1. And probably the most quirky - I am a PICKER. Yes, I truly believe that it is a inherited genetic trait to be a picker (thereby not claiming any responsibility for this sometimes, okay all the time, annoying habit). My mother endlessly tortured me by pinning me down and picking at a non-existent pimple on my face. So now, I will pick at anything on the body that doesn't seem to belong. Anything bumpy, dirty, scabby, scaly, I will pick it. I will pick myself and others. Just ask some past boyfriends and my husband.

2. I have food "issues". Not like my food can't touch or anything like that. I actually like to mix my food. I have other issues. A) I have to eat my food evenly. For instance, if I am eating steak, potatoes and a vegetable, I can't eat all the steak first and then the potatoes, everything has to be finished at the same time. Which moves me to B) I have to have a "side". I can't just eat a hamburger without fries or a sandwich without chips. I try really hard not to order or have a side but something inside me screams unbalanced! C) Along the same lines as "even", I eat things in twos. The main culprits are M&Ms and fries. With fries I actually pair them up by size then I eat the odd men out first and then eat the pairs shortest to longest. If I am eating curly fries the curliest ones get eaten last. With M&Ms I even them up, eat the odd ones first, and then eat by colors, changing up the color order based on my mood. D) I don't like sharing food with people - Jeremy tries to share food with me to save money when going out and I always get angry. I like my food to myself.

3. I think I am a little obsessive compulsive. (see above) I think this because really small things "out of order" bother me. The irony of this is that I live in such chaos that I feel overwhelmed all the time thus causing a consistent state of anxiety all the time. I try to get organized but chaos always wins out and I give up. I am pretty sure that medication is in my future.

4. Horses scare me. I want so bad to ride a horse as fast as I can but something about being strapped to a huge animal makes me really nervous. I believe this stems from an incident where I was horseback riding as a kid and my horse jumped over a tree stump and I was flipped upside down still "attached" to the horse.

5. This one may not be so unknown...I am a PUKER. I puke at anything. Coughing makes me puke. I am not sure why but I have a serious gag reflex. It has made for some of the most entertaining and embarrassing moments in my life.

6. I would much rather watch a movie than TV. I cannot stand it when people channel surf and more so when they don't use the cable guide! I don't know why. Addendum: I love any and all dance movies. If there is a dance "battle" that is the crux of the movie I am hooked. It doesn't even have to have good acting and I am glued with a tub of popcorn.

Then and Now

2008-03-29T23:55:00.000-07:00

I am starting to think he looks a lot more like me than I first thought. He clearly has my eyes and eyebrows. And maybe my hairline! HA! He still has Jeremy's chin.
Kamie: Circa 1975

Notice my high belt and shoes. It must have been break up (early spring) for me to be wearing those shoes. Yes, I was a trailer park kid.

Things I think about at 4am

2008-03-26T10:26:00.001-07:00

There is not much to do when you are up at 4 am nursing. Last night or this morning I was thinking to myself that it is amazing that I can't last 10 minutes on a treadmill before I get tired but I never get tired when the "mom pat" is put to use - you know the constant patting of the back for burping or soothing purposes? I can pat his back for hours and never get tired. Why is that?

Also, put me in a chair or any other unlikely napping spot and I won't sleep at all - I can't sleep on a plane to save my life unless I am medicated, but put a baby in my arms and I can sleep in any place and in any position. I am not saying it is comfortable - I have woken up several times in the rocker with a kink in my neck - but I manage to sleep. I am sure it has to do with sleep deprivation - the more tired I am the easier it is to sleep in weird places. But it still boggles me that I can do it.

I also think if I plugged Jeremy's nose to stop his snoring, how long would it take before he realized he wasn't breathing? I never actually try this because that might mean prison time.

3 Day Alaska Tour

2008-03-22T22:27:00.000-07:00

While Matthew was in town we took him to our tourist trap (Portage Glacier) and then to the wildlife sanctuary near Portage. I had never been to the sanctuary so I was a little skeptical. At $7.50 a person I wasn't too confident that we would see any of the "good" animals but the lady at the gate told us we shouldn't have a problem. The day was gorgeous - sunny and around 40 degrees so we decided to give it a shot. First we saw moose, musk ox, deer, caribou and then the brown bears. The two of them were out and about playing with each other right in front of us. One of the bears did a back flip into the snow and rolled around with his feet in the air. It was almost like they were trained to do tricks for the crowd. Yes, that is a real bear! Well worth the $7.50!

The Monkey and the Monkey's Uncle

2008-03-20T23:10:00.000-07:00

Hudson's Uncle Matthew made a special trip to Alaska to visit him. We are very excited that Matthew is here. We wish that Cousin Aiden and Aunt Kyle could have made it but we hope to see them next month.

HUDSON HEARS A WHO

2008-03-15T23:55:00.000-07:00

Hudson has been out and about alot lately. He has been to an Alaska All-Star Hockey game (his cousin Nolan's team won the state title), a UAA men's basketball game where they clinched the conference title, and just today he went to see Horton Hears a Who with his mommy, daddy, and aunt Leah. He does really well in public - he mostly sleeps - so it is easy to take him places. I guess we should take advantage of this time. This is a random picture but it is cute. He likes his Rainforest bouncy seat. It plays a waterfall and has a monkey and a parrot, what is not to like?

Squirty Little Treat

2008-03-10T22:31:00.001-07:00

Time sure goes by fast

2008-03-05T20:10:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that Hudson will be a month old this Friday. Just to say he is a month old is completely bizarre. Time sure goes by fast. He has changed so much already.

I am currently trying to find day care for my little guy. Who knew that day care providers were so political. I stopped into the day care by Jeremy's work today and was not impressed with their customer service. The girl barely spoke audibly and was more concerned about her own kid seeing her than showing me around. The infant room looked like a baby prison with white cribs lining the walls. The babies were fussy and the one attendant was rocking one baby and ignoring the rest. This place is one of the top day care centers in the state believe it or not. I know that I am never going to find the perfect place so I need to put things in perspective. I actually would be comfortable with this place. I am waitlisted though with no idea if I will secure a spot for him when I need it. This is stressful. So any of my Anchorage friends, if you have a day care provider that has an opening, please let me know. I am looking at both centers and in-home care.

Three months are going to come up quick and I am going to have to give my guy over to someone to watch him. GULP.

UPDATE: I have an interview this weekend with a woman who has a daycare near our house. She sounds great. We have been communicating via email and I am going to check out her home and references this weekend. My first choice was our friend's sister (pastor's wife's sister) but she is in such demand that I am waitlisted with her too. Those who said they know daycare providers - give me their names as back up. I am hoping that this lady works out - it sounds like she cares for children like her own and her husband helps out with the day care too. They have a big home and big yard and they live by us.

The many faces of Hudson

2008-03-04T21:36:00.001-08:00

3 Week Pics

2008-02-28T21:08:00.000-08:00

Stay Tuned

2008-02-26T15:01:00.000-08:00

We haven't posted pictures or anything in the last week because our laptop has been in the shop and I don't want to sit at a desk on a computer when I can be holding my baby! :) Jeremy has moved his computer downstairs in an effort to make use of every inch of our house so here I sit.
We don't have a lot to report - three days after coming home from the hospital I was hit with a massive flu bug. Barfing while nursing is a fine art to master which I didn't do so well. The bug landed me and Hudson in the ER for some anti-nausea medicine for me and a check to make sure he wasn't getting sick and still getting nutrition. Jeremy wasn't too thrilled to be at the ER at 3am but I wasn't willing to go another hour puking just so he could sleep until 7am. Plus, I was a little worried that Hudson wasn't getting anything good in his belly because he was fussy. I finally got over that after FIVE days. Hello. I am feeling ten times better and getting used to the lack of sleep. I am finaly realizing that I can set Hudson down while he sleeps and do normal things. But quite honestly, being "lazy" for the last two weeks has been a dream after the last two months of uncomfortable. Now my morning nap is a luxury to make up for the times I am up at night and my evening nap at 9pm is a necessity to get ready for the times I am up at night. I can sacrifice the morning nap when needed. I think I am getting the hang of this.
Stay tuned for pictures - I promise to post a ton soon.

Thank you Charlsa for making the awesome banner!!!

2008-02-15T21:34:00.000-08:00

Hungry Hungry Hippo

2008-02-15T18:22:00.000-08:00

Hudson is 1 week old today. He went in for his first well baby check-up, peed on the nurse while being measured, left a squirty treat for the Dr. The highlight of his visit was when he got his German Helmet issued to him, or graduated to a turtle neck you could say. AKA no anteater/snufalufagus.

He was born 8lbs 13oz, but dropped to 7lbs 14oz in the hospital waiting for mom's milk to come in. That was normal, and Dr's look for the baby to return to their birth weight after 2 weeks. When weighed today, we were hoping for a few ounces, but instead he weighed in at 8lbs 11oz and shocked the Dr. He managed to gain almost a pound in three days.

First Night Home

2008-02-13T18:21:00.001-08:00

Daddy got peed and pooped on - man the stream seriously shot out so fast Daddy had no response time. I am going to love this parenting thing.

Mommy broke her "rule" of no baby in bed. Well this was necessary this morning as I am still unable to lift him out of the crib (even though the crib goes right by the bed) by myself. My stomach muscles are still very tender. So I guess it was a necessary at this point. Moreover, I have tossed any ideas of "rules".

Jeremy gets up and gets him out of the crib for me while I "prep" for feeding. Breast feeding is going really well. My milk is in and he is finally getting a full belly. Our first night was pretty good - he fed every 2 1/2 to 3 hours. We slept when he slept. It wasn't too bad.

Jeremy has been wonderful - I have changed probably two diapers to date. Daddy changes his diaper and burps him. We have a process that makes things alot easier especially if he decides to be fussy.

Hudson's daddy likes to sing "9 times out of 10 he is cute like his Papa" - and likes to make up names for his poopy diapers. His commentary while changing diapers is pretty funny and more so when lack of sleep and Vicodin come into play.

All in all, so far so good. I am looking forward to being able to move better. Apparently since I didn't have the nesting period before I had him, it is kicking in now. When we got home from the hospital last night I couldn't sit down, I was cleaning and organizing like crazy. Jeremy finally told me to sit down and I knew I had over done it. I am going to have to take it easy. I give myself one project a day and I will work my way up from there.

Another surprising development is that I am pretty mellow and PATIENT now. My hormones are non-existent at this point. I guess I am just weird because people keep asking me how my hormones are doing. Fine. I feel really relaxed at this point (of course all of this is subject to change at any moment.)

2008-02-13T16:16:00.000-08:00

2008-02-10T23:32:00.000-08:00

Hudson McNeil Willis

2008-02-09T09:23:00.001-08:00

Hudson McNeil Willis arrived Friday 2/8/08 at 4:29 p.m.

He tipped the scales at 8lbs. 13oz. and 20 1/2" long.

He was delivered via emergency C-Section, but he and mom are healthy and happy, resting at the hospital through the weekend.

Freezing

2008-02-02T21:02:00.000-08:00

With low temperatures dropping 10 to 20 degrees below zero this weekend, and forcast for next week as well, I think the baby is happy staying where he is warm.

The plug on the turkey hasn't popped up yet

2008-02-01T15:37:00.000-08:00

I have to laugh because our baby counter says "time's up!" (Jeremy actually put in the wrong due date. I was due on Jan. 30, not today) But here I am waiting, and waiting, and waiting - like watching the temperature plug on the turkey at thanksgiving. Pop! It's done, time to eat!

I told my doctor I wasn't interested in going 42 weeks so he agreed to induce next week if I haven't already had him. We did a stress test and the baby is happy as ever with lots of fluid for cushion. They should have done a stress test on me. I am glad I chose to start my leave today to try and rest and relax with minimal interruptions.

We may have to do a cervical softener the night before inducing if my cervix is not ready. If these things do not work, then there is a strong possibility of a C-section. I am hoping that the induction works and everything goes fine. But at this point, I will do anything to make sure this baby comes out healthy.

I have heard all sides of the coin and I am here to tell you that I am not a woman who has a definite "plan" when it comes to birthing. I have been involved in cases where doctors have let women labor too long and it hasn't been a good outcome for the baby. At this point, it is ALL about the health of our son and not me. If that means C-section, that is what it means. I don't think of that as a failure. I am willing to try everything but if it reaches a point to where the baby is stressed, game over.

I have been amazed at what people will say, "you shouldn't have a C-section, it's bad and its major surgery", "you shouldn't use drugs they are bad for you and the baby", "you should stay pregnant as long as you can, it will come naturally". And to all of those people I say, "to each her own". I do not judge other people and their decisions especially when made regarding the life of your baby. Everyone is different. I guess I opened up the box when I chose to share what was going on with me. So we will see what the next check up brings and go from there. Regardless, next week we will be parents.

Nursery Part II

2008-01-31T19:07:00.000-08:00

I feel I must post a little something about the nursery because my husband just posts pictures and doesn't write any explanation. The nursery is a work in progress. I haven't decided if I want a changing table or just use the top of the dresser to save space. The room is somewhat small. The changing pad takes up almost the entire dresser. Decisions, decisions. I do like how the black and white plays off the BRIGHT turquoise. And I love the rug. :) Jeremy thinks it is fun to put the dogs in everything belonging to the baby. So when the baby actually comes, the dogs are going to want to get in where he is at.

P.S. I am overdue. If I don't have the baby by next Tuesday we are inducing on Thursday or Friday. Here's hoping for a ripe cervix.

Nursery

2008-01-26T22:52:00.000-08:00

39 weeks and 1 day

2008-01-24T14:30:00.000-08:00

Good afternoon boys and girls, today's letter is the letter "H". Can you think of words that start with the letter "H". I can:

HOMICIDAL

HORMONAL

HYSTERICAL

HATEFUL

HORRID

HUNGRY

Today's letter is partially brought to you by a Dr-who-doesn't-believe-in-inducing-unless-there-is-a-really-good-medical-need.

38 weeks...any time my friends...

2008-01-13T20:58:00.000-08:00

Hopefully this will be the last picture of me pregnant. I didn't want to take it but Jeremy made me. Ugh. So I thought that I might as well post it.

He is head down and ready to go. I have given him the call sign but he hasn't emerged from the bull pen yet. Stay tuned.

New Years Eve - Guitar Hero Gang

2008-01-07T13:21:00.000-08:00

My husband doesn't understand that when he posts a picture he must write some sort of caption. This group hung out at our house, played Guitar Hero, and rang in the new year with cheap party favors. From left to right, Jeremy, preggo (who looks like Buddha in this picture), Amber (April's sister), April, Jen, Jason (April's husband) and Jim. Not pictured but made an appearance Tlisa and Scott and their girls Avery and Aubry.

It was a low key night, I wasn't sure I would make it but Guitar Hero distracted me and well, I crawled into bed at 2am. Party animal, I tell ya.

Jeremy continues to live out his college years by making some jungle juice - I tried to tell him that no one in this crowd was going to help him drink it. Oh well, at least our beverage server from our wedding is getting used.

36 Weeks

2007-12-30T12:35:00.000-08:00

Will I be so lucky to have this baby early? All the "experts" have said that first time moms are usually late. I asked my doctor at my last visit about the truth in that statement. He said not necessarily. So I am hoping and praying that I might go early. Now, all the experts have been telling me not to wish to have the baby early because I won't be able to sleep, it is easier to do things because your baby is inside of you and they are easy to pack around vs. having to pack up a baby in a carseat and the quiet ceases to exist after the baby is born.

I think these are all lame arguments. I am sure all you moms out there will tell me that I will eat my words but here is my rationalization. I am ready to have this baby now because:

I am not sleeping anyway

I don't have that busy of a life that I am on the go nonstop and it will be a hassle to pack a baby around - plus I have family that are more than willing to watch the little guy if I need to do something

It isn't all that quiet in my house now - I have two dogs who bark at the wind and a husband who snores nonstop.

So I am sure that I will eat these words and I am sure there will be those experts who tell me "I told you so" but right now as I am entirely uncomfortable and tired, I wish for my baby to come early. Two weeks would be good, okay little buddy?

My Granny

2007-12-23T15:34:00.000-08:00

My sweet Granny passed away on December 10. It was quite a shock to many of us in the family even though she had Alzheimer's. After I visited her in March, my aunt told me that the doctors indicated that my granny had entered into the last phase of Alzheimer's - the doctors said that she still could have several years left. In October she went into the hospital with a urinary tract infection. My aunt then moved her into a nursing home on the advice of doctors to try and rehabilitate her to walk again (she had become so comfortable with the wheelchair - it was necessary to get her up and moving). She wasn't in the nursing home long when she passed.

My sister and I flew out to Salt Lake two days later to attend the funeral. It was physically and emotionally the hardest trip I have ever taken. I barely made the cut-off to fly - I was 33 weeks and most airlines don't like women past 36 weeks to fly. The flight down wasn't all that fun. Because we booked our tickets last minute the only seats available were a middle seat and window. I asked the guy in the aisle to switch seats with me but he didn't bite. I told him that I was going to have to get up a lot to go to pee and to get some circulation in my legs (on advice from the doctor to prevent clots). The seats were small and the lap belt barely fit around my tummy - it wasn't comfy at all. Long story short, the little guy didn't like being scrunched up for 4 hours straight so he kicked and poked and pushed me the entire way down. No sleep for me. My body didn't know which end was up and what time of day it was - do I eat or sleep? We landed in Salt Lake and had to wait for a plane to leave our gate. Sitting on the tarmac, tired, hot, with not much in my stomach I grabbed the air sick bag turned into my sister's lap and barfed. She just sat there in awe. I hit the bag fortunately but the shock paralyzed her. What a way to start this trip.

The service was very nice. It was very hard on me - I was extremely close with my Granny. Seeing her in the casket was a very hard pill to swallow even though I know that she is in a much better place. I grappled with different emotions - on the surface I was feeling very selfish for not wanting to see her go but underneath I felt such a great relief. I felt relief that she was no longer trapped in a body that was slowly shutting down on her. I mostly felt relief that she was free of the mind that was playing such terrible tricks on her.

My sister and I had a good time visiting with our family that we rarely get to see and I know that my granny would have loved to have been there laughing with us.

2007-12-18T19:30:00.001-08:00

Former Alaska resident Claire Elizabeth Martin, 84, died peacefully Dec. 10, 2007, at Rocky Mountain Care Center in Clearfield, Utah, of natural causes.
A funeral will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Lindquist's Layton Mortuary, 1867 N. Fairfield Road, in Layton, Utah. Friends and family may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday and from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. Saturday at the mortuary. Interment will be at North Ogden Ben Lomond Cemetery in North Ogden, Utah.
Claire was born Sept. 17, 1923, in Sheridan (Madison County), Mont., to Benjamin Phillip Martin and Annie Mae Judge. She was raised in Montana.
Because her father was a forest ranger, Claire spent her summer months with her parents in Wall Creek near Great Falls, Mont. During the winter months, her family would move back to Ennis, Mont., so Claire could attend school. Claire graduated from Lima High School in 1942. She was a member of the high school band and played the flute. She was also a student body officer.
Claire attended and graduated from business college and worked as a telegrapher for the UP Railroad. She married Joseph McNeil Martin on Aug. 15, 1946, in Ogden. Joe and Claire drove the Alaska Highway in a Model T Ford, arriving in Anchorage in 1947. Joe went to work for the Alaska Railroad, and Claire stayed home to raise their family.
In 1954, Joe and Claire joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Claire was active in the church and served in the Young Women's program and Relief Society. In 1962, the couple took their four children to Salt Lake City to be sealed in the Salt Lake Temple for time and all eternity. Claire loved genealogy and was actively engaged in doing family history work. Claire and Joe purchased a family grocery store in 1960, which Claire ran for 11 years. In 1971, Claire and Joe returned to North Ogden. In 2002, she moved to Layton.
In 2003, Claire was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and moved to Chancellor Garden's assisted living facility. Due to deteriorating health, Claire was moved to Rocky Mountain Nursing Home in Clearfield in October 2007.
Her family wrote: "Claire lived a full, active and meaningful life. She loved crossword puzzles, ceramics and doll making, but her greatest love was all of her family. We are grateful to celebrate her life and the legacy that she has left her family."
Claire is survived by her daughters, Barbara Ann (Kent) Larsen of Salt Lake City and Mary Louise (Philip) Miner of Layton; son, John Phillip (Brenda) Martin of Anchorage; sister, Josephine Evelyn Stoll of Anchorage; 14 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Claire was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Martin; daughter, Evelyn Faye Buchanan; and brother, Dan Martin.

32 week updates

2007-12-06T19:10:00.000-08:00

I hate posting without some sort of visual aid, but I am all alone and I am lazy. I am 32 weeks - headed into the home stretch, so they say. I am watching the pot that never boils. It is driving me crazy. Here are a few tidbits regarding what I expected and didn't expect at this stage in the game:

Known: I would be even more tired then ever before.

Unknown: Getting up in the morning would require an act of congress.

Known: The baby would run out of room to roam in his sack.

Unknown: This baby would kick like a cat in a paper bag.

Known: I would be uncomfortable and swollen.

Unknown: How often I grunt during the day. Seriously, putting on socks?

Known: The peeing would pick up.

Unknown: The baby would cop a squat (or headstand) on my bladder permanently and the frustration of waiting to just hear a drop.

Known: Hemorroids might be in my future.

Unknown: Two deviled eggs would cause such pain that I would be sitting on ice for two days. (I honestly wasn't sure if this would happen to me, but now I am Fiber-Sure.)

Known: That being a little chubby prior to pregnancy might stave off the stretch marks.

Unknown: That I would look like I wrestled a mountain lion.

I am down to doctor appointments every two weeks - we have discussed pain management during labor, what to do when you begin to have contractions, and birth control after delivery (hello, an order of no sex please, with a side of don't touch me!). I started my childbirth class last night and I say I started because Jeremy is conveniently out of town. Amy went with me and we laughed quite a bit when the instructor discussed what the partners need to do. Ah my little Jerbil, I can't wait to see how he handles the delivery. I think he will do fine, but it is fun to laugh and speculate! Luckily, Amy will be in the delivery room with us to offer Jeremy some moral support because hopefully I will be pleasantly drugged.

What are the chances?

2007-11-21T19:47:00.000-08:00

It is Turkey Day Eve and I am sitting on the couch watching my favorite show, House Hunters, hoping that my swollen feet will return to normal size. My two dogs, who cannot occupy themselves, are driving me nuts. Jenny just jumped on the couch and landed squarely on the phone - I hear four beeps, so I pick up the phone and hit the TALK button to hang up. Two seconds later I get a call. Here is how it goes down:

Caller: This is APD, 911, I just received a 911 hang up from this phone, is everything okay?

Me: (HORRIFIED) Um yes, believe it or not my dog sat on the phone and dialed 911. I am fine.

911 Dispatcher (now identified): Laughing. Your dog?

Me: Yes, sorry about that, everything is fine.

She confirms my address and hangs up.

Seriously, if this didn't just happen to me, I would never believe it.

My next post: two dogs for free to good home - a rotary phone a must.

Fire 'n Ice

2007-11-13T22:47:00.001-08:00

The Snow is falling and my boyscout skills are being put to the test in making fire.

Pregnancy Update

2007-10-31T19:29:00.000-07:00

I am almost 28 weeks.
He is moving non-stop all day and night.
My hips are feeling the pressure.
The last couple of days I have had Braxton Hicks contractions.
I am ready to give birth. This pregnancy thing is about 4 months too long.

We are lame this year

2007-10-31T19:12:00.000-07:00

I "threw" this shirt on today (okay, some seams might have busted when I put it on), put my hair in pigtails and went to work. My coworker dubbed me "Crabby Tot". While at work I realized that I could have had the best costume...Nicole Ritchie in LA County Jail Maternity Ward garb...these darn hormones, they make me stupid. I can't think, I am not creative, what use am I? Jeremy thought he would go as the "gay" Dumbledore (he likes to dress up in drag every year, should I be worried?) But we were lame and just let Halloween roll by without effort. As I am typing we have decided to turn the porch lights off and eat the candy ourselves. BOOOOO!

Edna and Fairy Princess / Cop and Krispy Kreme's

2007-10-29T21:27:00.000-07:00

Blast from the past costumes...

I am getting one of these

2007-10-23T21:08:00.000-07:00

Okay this is a lame picture - but I want one of these Moby slings. I sense that I am way behind the times and everyone in the world knows what these are but I recently discovered it this past weekend when a friend of mine was using one with her daughter. You can move this cotton band all around and configure the baby anyway you want - even breastfeed and walk and no one can tell! My friend had her baby strapped in there face forward just hanging out. It looks like it is much better on your back then the snuggli - I will give that to Jeremy. They come in all colors and they are super affordable. Check em out if you are in the dark like me.

UPDATE: I am registered at Babies R Us. Search for my name. I only registered for essentials and am giving free reign and creativity for clothes, toys, and books. The Moby Sling and the Bumbo seat (which I would like) are not available on Babies R Us. My shower is Sunday November 4th - I will be 28 weeks. :)

Poo Poo Platter

2007-10-21T21:35:00.000-07:00

When the dogs bark nonstop, it's a moose. We checked the front lawn and sure enough this little lady was dining on appetizers out of the bird feeder. This is the same moose who stood in the driveway and wouldn't let me out to go to work. By the time I could leave the garage, she had bedded down in the neighbor's yard after leaving some "treats" in ours.

Nicole Ritchie ain't got nothin' on me

2007-10-14T00:15:00.000-07:00

The 6 month baby bump at your service. I got a lot of bump to hump around. These photos were taken at 1am...oh yes, 1am. We just got home after I picked Jeremy up from a night of poker on my way home from a bachelorette party. (I cannot believe I made it out past 10pm. I was barely awake and wanted to go to bed but the photographer got an itch to take pictures when I was half asleep.) I wasn't all that jazzed about being "that" woman who bar hops when she is pregnant. Luckily, the party started at a hotel room. I made it to one establishment and then went home. I did have one girl ask me, "does your baby like the music?" To which I replied, "he is sleeping". I couldn't think of anything more clever at the time. The hormones have sucked all my wit into a black hole.
I did my bridesmaid duty though -I am glad I went - I hung out for awhile, watched everyone drink the night away, listened to some decent music while sipping my water, and then went home.

24 weeks

2007-10-08T19:04:00.000-07:00

I have met the 6 month mark! Man, I can't believe I have made it this far...I am still "tired" but it isn't the exhaustion anymore. From all I have heard from other mothers, the 2nd trimester is the best in terms of energy. I have three weeks left of the 2nd trimester and I still have alot to do!
I feel the little guy all the time. He is pretty active during the day and quiet during the night - thank goodness! Between our two dogs who are stuck to me like glue - they must sense something - and my husband who could communicate with dolphins from our bedroom he snores so loud I need all the sleep I can get. I finally made Jeremy bring home some ear plugs after I spent a night on the couch when he was sick...now, I can't hear a thing!!! :)
Some things I have learned thus far as a first time preggo:

1. It really is true - sleep alot - forget about the laundry, dishes, etc. and sleep! You need it!

2. No matter how many times I hear, "you finally look pregnant and not chubby", it doesn't get easier, I still want to slap the commenter.

3. Hormones make me PSYCHOTIC. I don't like this ride, I wanna get off!

4. You really need a support group of other mommies - it has been pretty lonely for me. None of my friends here are pregnant. Which leads into:

5. Life for other people goes on and they are not always going to ask if you are okay or need anything. You have to be your own cheerleader sometimes.

Shy Guy

2007-10-02T20:58:00.000-07:00

Well, because of the lockdown at my work last Friday, I missed my appointment at the sonogram shop to get really good 4D face shots of our little rabbit. I was really bummed because the clinic I was going to closed its doors for good because the Dr was too busy with her own practice to do both jobs. I was getting the 4D pics "free" - basically no additional charge for the 4D pics in addition to the regular pics. If I want to get some more we will have to shell out the bucks because insurance doesn't cover 4D pics. Bummer. So we have these shots....

This one he is saying, I am a grumpy bear (takes after his mom)

Here is a good face shot...I can't tell who he looks like.

This week, week 23, I can feel him moving ALOT. Last night I was a little woozy from him moving around - swish, swish, thump, swish, swish, thump. It is a very odd feeling, but I feel good that I can feel him moving around.

Update - Photos from 5' Oclock News

2007-09-28T18:22:00.000-07:00

BREAKING NEWS...Kamie still in lockdown at work in Downtown Anchorage

2007-09-28T17:40:00.000-07:00

Sep 28, 2007 04:26 PM

White powder and a threatening letter are to blame for the Brady building in downtown Anchorage being placed on lockdown. The lockdown was ordered after a suspicious-looking envelope was opened in the reception area of the office of the State Attorney General around 11:30 a.m. Friday. Fourth Avenue from K to L has been closed.
A sample of the unidentified white powdery substance was sent to the state lab for testing. Test results should be known in a few hours. Anchorage Police and Hazmat crews are on scene. The building, at 1031 W. Fourth Ave., houses Anchorage offices of the state Department of Law as well as other state and private agencies. Kempton said the first call about the powder came in around 11:30 a.m.

Firefighters as well as the department’s hazardous materials team responded. About 15 firefighters in hazmat suits entered the building and removed the envelope and the white powder.

Some firefighters emerged from the building and were sprayed down at a decontamination station set up outside.

People who were inside the building at the time are remaining there. Access to the building is blocked to everyone else except emergency responders.

Fourth Avenue from K to L streets has been closed.

Kamie says she is starving because she has been locked in since before lunch time. Latest news is that she found some rations in a can of chili beans....

Nothing new and exciting

2007-09-25T19:52:00.000-07:00

This is such a lame blog...we must have boring lives. Not alot to post right now. Jeremy and I are both busy working. Jeremy has been busy at home too - he put down the wood laminate and painted the baby's room. We decided to go with a Penguin theme with maybe a polar bear thrown in there. It is hard to explain my vision so once it is done I will post a picture.

I am 22 weeks and feeling pretty good. I am starting to show. This friday I am going in for the 4D sonogram to get a good face shot of the little guy's face. I will post that too...so hang tight. I promise this blog will get better.

Little Treasure Havens

2007-08-25T19:21:00.001-07:00

I love garage sales. You can find some really good stuff. Today I went with a friend and here is a list of my loot:

A brand new Pack n Play - the girl never used it, the second time she opened it was for the garage sale. It comes with an attachable changing table, music player, and hammock! Retail: 140. My price: 40
I also got a few knick knacks
but the piece de resistance is the $3 snuggli I got. Here Jeremy is taking it for a trial run.

Week 17

2007-08-21T18:42:00.000-07:00

I am 17 weeks and had my August dr. appointment today. I am scheduled for an ultrasound in two weeks so that they can check out all the vital organs and I can find out what we are having. I have had mixed responses to my choosing to find out the sex of the baby. To each his own, I say. While I like surprises, this is one thing that I want to be prepared for. So tune in 2 weeks from now to find out what the stork is bringing for the AK Willis family.

We are bringing a baby into the family and letting one go. We are in the midst of selling my Montero. We are waiting for Alex the Russian, "who bring cash" to come over and check it out. No sense in having 2 SUVs, one of which is just sitting in the garage collecting dust while Jeremy drives his company truck. It will be sad to let Monty go - it was the first car I ever bought believe it or not! but the money in the bank will soothe my sadness. :)