MOM GOALS
-baby #2 (or 3 depending on how you look at it) I had a second full term pregnancy producing 3 additional children...I believe this was full filled.
-get Aidan into a preschool type environment He loves his daycare. He has a hard time getting up early in the morning but he loves doing his projects.
-complete the potty training process With the AWESOME help of many visitors and some wonderful friends...yes HE DID IT!!
-teach Aidan ABC's and 123's(in the correct order as observed by everyone besides Aidan) He is learning lots in day care
-more play dates (he loves him friends) Yep all the time.
WIFE GOALS
-be supportive of Brian's career and the things necessary to grow in it moving 2500 miles away...yep
-motivate and help keep a happy husband thriving I think he is thriving well
-help eliminate our silly debt (silly meaning all debt) well on our way. We paid off the truck and some medical bills. Only to get more medical bills but such is life.
-be an equal partner in everything possible I am trying and Brian says yes.
PERSONAL GOALS
-work on my health I tried my hardest with being pregnant for so long. When I was diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes I did well to keep my blood sugar within the correct levels and I learned to eat appropriately. So yes...
-sewing/quilting classes not this year
-ETSY shop to sell my hobby/crafts not this year. I have a Etsy shop just nothing to sell because crafts were very far from my mind.
-work on forgiveness, compassion, understanding, and finding happiness everyday in everything I tried and think I did a pretty good job. This may be a reoccurring idea, because I think I should always strive to be better.
-make 5 blankets to donate sadly no. I am really bummed by this one. Maybe next year.
-learn to knit or crochet sadly no, no time and no teacher during bed rest.
-more charitable I tried and think I did a pretty good job. This may be a reoccurring idea, because I think I should always strive to be better.
-garden yes. I got one beautiful tomato and that was it. I didn't say a bountiful garden. ha ha ha
-bodega stocked all year long it has been close to depletion multiple times but we have always had something
-do lots of canning and bottling no bottling or canning. Sorry I made babies and moved three times. too busy. :-)
WANTS
-mini van as of Christmas morning...YES!!!
-new toilet we moved three times and in the current house we have, we now have three toilets, so yes.
-Brian a laptop he got a work lap top.
-new kitchen table and chairs I am going to say yes. Joe and Debbie are letting us have theirs. It will be in our dining room as soon as we can go and get it.
TRAVEL
-St. George *3 yes in the first three months...crazy.
-Redfish sadly no. I hope everyone understands.
-camping sadly no.
-vacation elsewhere just moved to VA. Not really a vacation but a new environment
-over night excursion sans the child(ren) I was in the hospital for four days (three nights). Not exactly what I meant but it was without Aidan and the babies were in NICU.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Family Newletter and Christmas Card 2011
Left to Right back row: Brian, Aidan Katie
Left to Right front row: Gavin, Talon, Owen
Hello Family and Friends,
This year has been a busy one in the Larson household. We have experienced many big changes. Every month has been crazy. But we have loved every minute of 2011. And we can’t wait to see what 2012 has in store for us.
In January we found out that I was expecting. This was such a blessing, especially after our miscarriage in August. But with the excitement of the pregnancy we received news that Brian might not have a position at Convergys for very long. So Brian was able to put out some resumes and the first of February he was able to interview with Juniper Networks. Three days after his return from the interview we found out that we were pregnant with spontaneous triplets! We spent nearly a month trying to process this wonderful news. We were beyond confused when Brian was offered the position with Juniper, in Virginia. It took us some time to wrap our minds around the new path that the Lord had chosen for us, but once we did we eagerly boarded a plane for Virginia in April.
I was put on bed rest in May, a very unfortunate time because we had effectively moved our belongings twice in that month. We also had to search for a place to live, and bed rest made everything a little bit more difficult. But we found a wonderful home to rent, within the boundaries of a wonderful church ward.
The triplets were born on August 12, 2011 via emergency c-section. Gavin Michael, Talon Jeffrey and Owen Kay were born very healthy, just early. They spent about 14 days in the NICU for observation and jaundice. We were very blessed to have such happy healthy babies. Their weights were 5 lbs. 1 oz. (Gavin), 4 lbs. 9 oz. (Talon) and 5 lbs. 10 oz. (Owen).
Since their birth we have had a slue of family come and visit. What a wonderful help they have all been in this odd adjustment period. All these experiences have been wonderful for our little growing family. I have found that Brian can cook; he can even bake better than I can. Brian is also an amazing dad and husband and is an awesome multi-tasker.
Aidan has also been busy. He has made many new friends. He has finally finished potty training himself. He is currently enrolled in pre-school, which he LOVES! He is also a very awesome and helpful big brother. The triplets love watching him play and then especially love it when he sings to them.
What a year it’s been for the Larson Clan. We have experienced many changes, and many adventures. We are so grateful for all of the help and support we have received from so many friends and family, near and far, old and new. Thank you so much for your thoughts, prayers, gifts, letters, support and example. May the New Year find you and yours happy and healthy and ready for new adventures!!
Sunday, December 4, 2011
To blog or not to blog....
I have been wrestling with what to do about this blog. I have been wrestling with what to do about Facebook and other media (computer websites) that occupy my time. I find myself using these things as a means to escape my current crazy life. I can't run out of the house and do anything, because I am bound by three babies, an independent 3 year old, a lack of car large enough for us and a lack of confidence both in my surroundings (I have know idea what to do around here) and my confidence in leaving the house with three babies. So as a means to escape and see the outside world I find myself on the internet.
As I spend time exploring such wonderful technology I am constantly reminded of what things can be done, are being done and what could potentially happen in cyberspace. Maybe my mind runs away with thoughts of evil and horrible actions by others. But maybe, just maybe, my mind is trying to help me foresee the potential of others and helps me to realize just what is happening. Either way my desire to blog, desire to post on FB is wavering.
I enjoy being able to be in contact with friends and especially family. I have but one friend here in VA and so reading about the lives of everyone helps me stay connected. But as I stay connected I remember that everything on the internet stays on the internet. So I try and stay vigilant in my wordings, sharing and overall postings. It is at this time that I come to the conclusion that though I may try and avoid drama, confrontation, mishaps, and other malicious type behavior, that those who I cherish the most may be my undoing. Some don't understand my positions. Some don't understand my desire to be private, especially with family. I don't understand it. I want nothing more than to feel safe and comfortable for all my friends and family to stay connected with me and my family. But something, possibly my inability to trust others of past actions, I remain nervous and concerned about those closest to me.
Every time I think the dust has settled and life can return to the psuedo-normality that I have come to want and desire, someone or something kicks up a storm again.
Back to square one.
Ladies and Gentlemen. I have trust issues. HUGE TRUST issues. I have feelings of betrayal and confusion. It takes a lot of me to be in a position to WANT to trust again. But I have also noticed a new side effect of my trust issues. I want to block EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING that could POSSIBLY (INTENTIONALLY OR UNINTENTIONALLY) cause me any GRIEF, OUT OF MY LIFE AND MY FAMILIES.
I know this is not a good thing, but repeat offenders, repeat actions have made this a strong feeling.
I know a new "goal" to work on for the new year.
So that being said...should I continue to blog? Should I cut everyone out until I can make sense of these thoughts and feelings? My brain says yes, my heart is undecided. My better half, Brian, says not to let those BAD THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS WIN. What to do what to do.
My options...
1-stop blogging.
2-stop FB
3-tighten my "circle" to those who would not hurt me or my family (very very small)
4-stop blogging and FB
5-stop everything and concentrate on letter writing and phone calls
6-start a new blog, very private very very private
What say you readers...if you are even still out there? My decision needs to be made sooner than later.
As I spend time exploring such wonderful technology I am constantly reminded of what things can be done, are being done and what could potentially happen in cyberspace. Maybe my mind runs away with thoughts of evil and horrible actions by others. But maybe, just maybe, my mind is trying to help me foresee the potential of others and helps me to realize just what is happening. Either way my desire to blog, desire to post on FB is wavering.
I enjoy being able to be in contact with friends and especially family. I have but one friend here in VA and so reading about the lives of everyone helps me stay connected. But as I stay connected I remember that everything on the internet stays on the internet. So I try and stay vigilant in my wordings, sharing and overall postings. It is at this time that I come to the conclusion that though I may try and avoid drama, confrontation, mishaps, and other malicious type behavior, that those who I cherish the most may be my undoing. Some don't understand my positions. Some don't understand my desire to be private, especially with family. I don't understand it. I want nothing more than to feel safe and comfortable for all my friends and family to stay connected with me and my family. But something, possibly my inability to trust others of past actions, I remain nervous and concerned about those closest to me.
Every time I think the dust has settled and life can return to the psuedo-normality that I have come to want and desire, someone or something kicks up a storm again.
Back to square one.
Ladies and Gentlemen. I have trust issues. HUGE TRUST issues. I have feelings of betrayal and confusion. It takes a lot of me to be in a position to WANT to trust again. But I have also noticed a new side effect of my trust issues. I want to block EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING that could POSSIBLY (INTENTIONALLY OR UNINTENTIONALLY) cause me any GRIEF, OUT OF MY LIFE AND MY FAMILIES.
I know this is not a good thing, but repeat offenders, repeat actions have made this a strong feeling.
I know a new "goal" to work on for the new year.
So that being said...should I continue to blog? Should I cut everyone out until I can make sense of these thoughts and feelings? My brain says yes, my heart is undecided. My better half, Brian, says not to let those BAD THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS WIN. What to do what to do.
My options...
1-stop blogging.
2-stop FB
3-tighten my "circle" to those who would not hurt me or my family (very very small)
4-stop blogging and FB
5-stop everything and concentrate on letter writing and phone calls
6-start a new blog, very private very very private
What say you readers...if you are even still out there? My decision needs to be made sooner than later.
Monday, June 20, 2011
New Blog for a while...
I was planning on updating this blog and my new blog, BoredOnBedrest, but I think I won't. Too much work and too much repeating myself. I plan on starting this blog up again in the near future, but don't quote me on that. My desire to blog is slowly diminishing. And I feel that when these triplets arrive I will have so much on plate that a blog will be the last thing on my mind. But like I said, I could be wrong.
I really have little desire to blog on another blog, but feel it necessary at least as way to pass my time on bed rest if not as a memento for the boys as they grow older. I mean, seriously folks, I don't plan on being pregnant with triplets again, let alone have these kind of experiences again. :-)
Any how the new blog is private. If you want an invite you need to send me your email address. Or be on Facebook as I created a group specifically design to keep family and friends momentarily updated about this pregnancy. You need to be invited to both. So let me know.
The blogs address boredonbedrest.blogspot.com or click here.
And let me know about being a member of Momma's GTOs on Facebook.
Later!
Friday, May 20, 2011
What a month...
I have so much that I need to write and express and journal but I have been avoiding it. Why? If I document this month all the stuff will be locked into memory, not to be forgotten. Is it as bad as it seems? No, absolutely not. But living through this month has proven to be a bit of a challenge. I figured it would be a challenge but this is ridiculous.
Prior to leaving on this "adventure" Brian and I prayed, and we prayed hard to be guided. After many nights in prayer we were encouraged to go forth and head to Virginia. It would be for the good of our marriage, our quickly growing family and for our finances. So with faith we prepared as best we could to leave our home, our family, Brian's job, everything.
Our arrangements to come out here were just the beginning of everything seeming ideal but really being as difficult as possible. Brian's new employer was going to pay to fly us to Virginia, pay to put us in temporary housing for 30 days, pay for a rental car, hire a moving company to pack/unpack our belongings and transport everything from Utah to Virginia, and then help us get a place to live by giving us a $4000.00 moving allowance.
Everything seemed ideal and manageable. But let the drama begin. Brian's first day was scheduled on April 25, the day after Easter. He was given a month's notice on his start date. He was then told to be in contact with a "moving specialist." Excuse me but moving specialist, that is a joke! If I ever have a chance to meet "Joe" he and I will go the rounds, with me probably punching him in the face.
Brian's start date was set and then he received his offer letter. Inside this offer it was supposed to state all of the information listed above as well as his wages, benefits etc. Later that week he received an offer letter, a partial offer letter. Nothing concerning his travel arrangements were listed. So we had to start all over. Fast forward ten days. Leaving us with 21 days to arrange our lives. After the real offer letter was signed we were put in contact with a travel specialist. She was so much better than Joe. Within one 20 minute phone call we had an idea of when our flight would leave, where we would be staying, information about the movers, etc. What a relief!
We booked our flight to leave on April 23rd, early AM for Aidan. Linda, the travel specialist, was very understanding about our unique situation and worked with us on housing as best she could. We wanted a bottom floor apartment because I have a hard time with stairs and we have a rambuticous three year old. She looked for the better part of a week to find us something like that. Finally we settled on a four floor apartment with no stairs.
As for the movers, they would be moving our stuff two weeks after we got to Virginia. Our car would be transported differently than our stuff. We were told not to touch anything, that was their job. Then we were told we needed to pack everything. Then we settled on them just packing what we hadn't got too.
Our flight was relatively uneventful, and that was wonderful.
Once we landed we found out we had to walk what was the equivalent of probably 1 mile if not closer to 1.5 miles. This was because our gate was a distance away from baggage claim and then the car rental shuttle stop. This was difficult because we had all our luggage, a wandering three year old and my feet and legs were swollen more than twice their original size. Painful!
When we arrived at the designated car rental spot I sent Brian to go forth and get me a car. As he approached the desk and began getting the car it was mentioned about how much would be charged to his card... what? After panicking and then correctly explaining that his employer would be paying everything seemed fine. Until they saw me and told Brian that they would have to charge him personally for additional drivers to the car and that price was $150.00. After some more talking and promising that if I was to cost that much to add, I didn't need to drive for two weeks so I would not be driving, she finally believed us. We find the car and move all of our luggage and the car seat to the car only to realize that this small Toyota Corolla is going to barely fit all of our luggage and child in it. Great!
We then go and try and find our apartment. We found it without too much problem except we can't find an entrance into a lobby. After 30 minutes we found it. We quickly got checked in and we went and found our apartment. This apartment is a pretty posh set up. We took video of it and plan on posting it soon. When they said it was fully furnished they were partially telling the truth. Fully furnished for a single bachelor living within it walls, not necessarily for a family of three.
Our first weekend seemed to go pretty smoothly. We went to the grocery store on Saturday and got some essentials. We went to church on Sunday and got some good information.
Through the beginning of the next week everything seemed fine. Brian was enjoying his job and his co-workers. Aidan seemed pretty relaxed and enjoying himself. About Tuesday I started calling around about finding a doctor. We were told Brian's insurance would immediately be activated. Drama surrounding this will be posted later. Drama about finding a doctor and dealing with the insurance is a battle in itself.
About Wednesday we got our first complaint about Aidan being too loud at 930PM. Was he loud? Yes. But we were trying to get him to go to bed but he hadn't all the way adjusted to Virginia time so we were putting him to bed at 730PM, and Aidan has never gone to bed that early, ever.
We were told that the relocation money was on its way. So we casually looked online for a place to stay nothing to fervent though.
Beginning of the second week. With knowledge that additional relocation money was on its way Brian paid some bills. The check didn't come. We had the money to pay the bills so no drama, yet. However, food became a problem as did gas. I promise we aren't living large out here but not having our food storage or stability is beginning to take its toll on us. After some prayers and charity we were able to go to the store. At the end of the second week we had additional drama. Though we cancelled most of our automatic with drawl bills from home, some still went through. We got dinged in our checking account. Enter more prayers and charity. Lucky for us Brian got paid. Things were looking good and back to normal. His check was good, he paid some bills and hung on to some just in case. That "case" showed up. Comcast from Utah took out nearly $200 dollars from our account. What? Never has Comcast been that much. Brian scheduled payments, with an operator, for our student loans. Instead of the $200 he thought he scheduled, some how two different transactions were processed two days apart. One for $200 the other for $426. Um...more dinging. Our emergency fund was just depleted and we are back to negative.
Still no relocation money. Brian then contacts Linda. She does some research to find out that it has been processed and we should get money in two days, literally its in the mail.
Two days later no money. And we are out of gas. Thankfully I still have coins in my purse and very little on one of my cards. We get gas.
Enter complaint number 2 about Aidan walking around loudly. Grrrr.
Beginning of our fourth week. No money, broke again. We are stressing out about everything. Aidan starts to act up, more so than normally. I am hurting because these babies are growing big. Constant headaches (all stress related), and I can't control Aidan. It's hard to discipline and entertain a child while on bed rest in temporary housing.
We begin looking fervently for a house. We contact a realtor that is willing to help us. On Wednesday we go and look at three properties and fall in love with property number 3. 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, large backyard, living room, family room, den and it is being redone. The realtor is the owner of the home and is just as excited to find a renter as we are to find this house. She tells us she and her husband will be renting it for $2000 a month and only require first and last months down. We can do that we have a relocation check coming.
Early the next morning we receive an email from the realtor stating that for the price of first and last months rent ($4000) and an additional $2100, grand total $6100 due on May 31st the house is our to RENT! Excuse me! Brian is concerned and I get pissed off. I tell Brian we can't afford that nor was that the discussion yesterday, if this realtor wants to play we will play and walk away. Brian sends her an email saying $6100 ain't happening. She responds, Oops! $4100 on May 31st is what it was supposed to say. She then begins redo-ing the application process. Only down side to this house is it wont be ready until May 31st and we need to be out of temporary housing on May 22nd. So now we need to find a motel for 9 days.
Yesterday we finally got our "$4000" check. It was printed for $2544.00. Brian immediately calls and says what is this. Juniper taxes all checks such as this as a "bonus check and it is taxed at 25%". And the surprises (hits) just keep on coming. To add to the drama we get online and try and find the nearest Chase bank so that we can deposit this check only to find that the nearest bank is 150 miles away. All the banks that used to be here, went away. Double grrr.
Enter more prayers and more tears and more everything. We were blessed again by charity and love. Is everything better, No...hell no. But we may be able to try and survive.
Why is it that any good decision that I make, and I make them with the consent and blessing of the Lord, I have to be faced with unimaginable challenges? Why can't the opposition just leave me the heck alone? After all the drama this month I can honestly say yesterday was the only day I had a melt down. I got mad, I got snappy and I got ready to fight. Luckily, we didn't need to fight anyone, at least not yet. We will see what this weekend brings.
Through out the third week
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Three days of goodbyes
Today I wish to bid adieu to Time for Families, Meghan Dixon, Dr. Winn, Dr. Hughes and LuAnn And Ivan Lincoln.
Today we went and picked up Brian's cousin Meghan from Time for Families day care (where I used to be a substitute) and went to lunch with her and the McFadden's. While picking her up, I said good bye to the director and got momentarily choked up knowing that my last job for a while was truly over and I wouldn't be around to see it anymore. I also felt a bit of gratitude for Lorraine and helping me get such a trivial job because, I believe, due to that trivial job I have an aura of confidence surrounding these triplets. The day care truly helped me understand the importance of putting children on a schedule and learning how different children react to different things and most importantly, how not to stress out, remain calm and everything will be fine.
I will also miss visiting with Brian's cousin Meghan. She is one of those truly easy people for me to talk to and get to know. Maybe it was because we already had Brian and his family as a topic of conversation. I have especially enjoyed getting to know her and learn more about the Larson side of the family.
Today was also Aidan's last doctor's appointment with Dr. Darin Winn of the Herefordshire IHC Clinic in Roy. I must say I was apprehensive about leaving Dr. Wallin at Tanner Clinic when we changed insurances but he has been wonderful. Aidan loves going to the doctor and enjoys joking with the doctor. I enjoy being able to say that I am older than my family doctor. :) Today was a blessing because he helped us out in so many ways concerning allergy samples, prescriptions and Aidan's immunization records.
Then I headed to Dr. Hughes' office to pick up mine and the babies records. I actually cried as I talked with the staff about leaving. Apparently being the one pregnant with natural triplets makes you some kind of celebrity in an OB's office. They all knew who I was and that I was leaving. They all came to virtually say goodbye, even ones I have never met. They all requested some kind of birth announcement for Dr. Hughes, because he too, is sad that we are leaving him. That mad me sad. Dr. Hughes is the most amazing doctor. He ranks up there as high as Dr. Walling. I will miss him and his demeanor.
And then tonight we stopped by to visit my Aunt and Uncle. Their amazing daughters, we will see on Friday so I haven't felt to sad about leaving them yet. But after driving away from their home this evening I got a little choked up. I have been doing that a lot this week. It makes me sad that this is the first serious family goodbye we have had to do. I have enjoyed spending time with them and visiting. I will miss being able to stop by and visit and have Aidan play with their amazing neighbor kids.
So tonight I say adieu to these people and places. My heart is slowing breaking. Friday and Saturday will be horrible.
Today we went and picked up Brian's cousin Meghan from Time for Families day care (where I used to be a substitute) and went to lunch with her and the McFadden's. While picking her up, I said good bye to the director and got momentarily choked up knowing that my last job for a while was truly over and I wouldn't be around to see it anymore. I also felt a bit of gratitude for Lorraine and helping me get such a trivial job because, I believe, due to that trivial job I have an aura of confidence surrounding these triplets. The day care truly helped me understand the importance of putting children on a schedule and learning how different children react to different things and most importantly, how not to stress out, remain calm and everything will be fine.
I will also miss visiting with Brian's cousin Meghan. She is one of those truly easy people for me to talk to and get to know. Maybe it was because we already had Brian and his family as a topic of conversation. I have especially enjoyed getting to know her and learn more about the Larson side of the family.
Today was also Aidan's last doctor's appointment with Dr. Darin Winn of the Herefordshire IHC Clinic in Roy. I must say I was apprehensive about leaving Dr. Wallin at Tanner Clinic when we changed insurances but he has been wonderful. Aidan loves going to the doctor and enjoys joking with the doctor. I enjoy being able to say that I am older than my family doctor. :) Today was a blessing because he helped us out in so many ways concerning allergy samples, prescriptions and Aidan's immunization records.
Then I headed to Dr. Hughes' office to pick up mine and the babies records. I actually cried as I talked with the staff about leaving. Apparently being the one pregnant with natural triplets makes you some kind of celebrity in an OB's office. They all knew who I was and that I was leaving. They all came to virtually say goodbye, even ones I have never met. They all requested some kind of birth announcement for Dr. Hughes, because he too, is sad that we are leaving him. That mad me sad. Dr. Hughes is the most amazing doctor. He ranks up there as high as Dr. Walling. I will miss him and his demeanor.
And then tonight we stopped by to visit my Aunt and Uncle. Their amazing daughters, we will see on Friday so I haven't felt to sad about leaving them yet. But after driving away from their home this evening I got a little choked up. I have been doing that a lot this week. It makes me sad that this is the first serious family goodbye we have had to do. I have enjoyed spending time with them and visiting. I will miss being able to stop by and visit and have Aidan play with their amazing neighbor kids.
So tonight I say adieu to these people and places. My heart is slowing breaking. Friday and Saturday will be horrible.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Four days of goodbyes
Today I bid farewell to Dr. Silver. He was our fetal maternal specialist, AKA perinatologist for the babies. We have only seen him three times and incredibly briefly but it was all for the sake of the babies and we always received good news. Today we saw him and he announced that everything on all the babies looked fantastic and all three boys were doing well. He confirmed the genders on Babies C and B. Baby A is still unknown though he feels that he is 85% sure Baby A is a boy. We were unable to ascertain a gender because Baby A is lying breech and Baby B is basically laying his head constantly in Baby A's lap, therefore concelling the gender.
I also wish to bid farewell to Mandrin Palace and their version of Tiny Spicy Chicken. Aidan LOVES their tiny spicy chicken. He is always eager give our order to the waitress/waiter. We go their often enough and don't change our order that today we ordered and had our food our as Aidan was saying tiny spicy chicken. We ordered, ate and paid in under 30 minutes. I must add that we don't really go out to eat that much, we just happen to be creatures of habit and that habit brings regularity and familiarity with this local businesses.
So goodbye for now Dr. Silver and Mandrin Palace.
I also wish to bid farewell to Mandrin Palace and their version of Tiny Spicy Chicken. Aidan LOVES their tiny spicy chicken. He is always eager give our order to the waitress/waiter. We go their often enough and don't change our order that today we ordered and had our food our as Aidan was saying tiny spicy chicken. We ordered, ate and paid in under 30 minutes. I must add that we don't really go out to eat that much, we just happen to be creatures of habit and that habit brings regularity and familiarity with this local businesses.
So goodbye for now Dr. Silver and Mandrin Palace.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Five days of Goodbyes
Today we were called at noon by my grandparents and asked to meet them for lunch at the Star Cafe. Let's be honest. The Star doesn't serve the world's best food or anything like that. But do you remember the television show "Cheers"? Do you remember their theme song? The part where it talks about "where you wanna go where everyone knows your name." That is how it is at the Star for me, Aidan and my grandparents. Do I think I go there that often? No. But the grandparents do and they talk about us and the waitresses know them and so they know us. All the waitresses love on Aidan and tease him and know to get him his little coke. He loves the attention. All the waitresses know about the babies and our moving and are so sweet.
So today I want to bid a farewell to two different things. One the Star Cafe. Where the food is adequate but the friendliness of the staff is awesome. And to my grandparents because I will miss visits with them. I will miss their phone calls where they say "let's go" or "come over and visit" or "bring me my Aidan" or my all time favorite phone call "did I wake you up?" followed by "I just wanted to see what you were doing and if you were awake."
So today I want to bid a farewell to two different things. One the Star Cafe. Where the food is adequate but the friendliness of the staff is awesome. And to my grandparents because I will miss visits with them. I will miss their phone calls where they say "let's go" or "come over and visit" or "bring me my Aidan" or my all time favorite phone call "did I wake you up?" followed by "I just wanted to see what you were doing and if you were awake."
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Six days of goodbyes
I have thought about this blog topic and have debated doing it. I don't want to come across sounding dismal and depressed because I am not. I don't want people to be concerned about us, but I also want to remember some of these sentiments I feel as I am experiencing them and as our time in Utah comes to an end. We don't know much about the future. Virginia could turn out to be a temporary move (2 years), a stepping block (continually moving to help further Brian in his career) or a permanent move (we could love it out there and not want to leave). But unlike death or the mission field (being essentially cut off from everything for two years) this move will allow us many freedoms thanks to technology. So in the mean time I want to take the next six days to say "goodbye" as it were to things that come up during our last week in Utah.
With today being Sunday, I want to say good bye to the Clearfield 5th ward and surrounding neighborhood. We have lived in this ward nearly two years, and even though I didn't realize it until recently, part of my heart will always reside here.
It was here that I got discouraged with the "lack of friendliness in the neighborhood and ward." It was also here that I realized that the above statement was a load of crap and I was the problem. I am my father's daughter and as such I am generally shy until I feel comfortable and have a hard time with chit chat. And to top that off I am a tall, fat girl that no matter how hard I tries to smile most people believe me to be incredibly self confident and/or intimidating. I have been told in the past that only the bravest of people dare approach me and then, and only then, do they realize I am a large teddy bear of sorts. I think this was the problem with my ward and neighborhood. In the first years time in this ward I had spoken to my neighbors across the street about five times, my one next door neighbor twice (she talked with my mother more times than me), my other next door neighbor about a handful of times and only a hello.
Our neighborhood is comprised of many different apartment complexes and widows/widowers (the neighborhood as a whole is older). I recently learned that the older members of the ward have become leary of the newer members moving into the ward because they generally are apartment folk and don't last long.
During our first year here we had never seen a visiting teacher, and two different sets of gentlemen came to our home for visits. I thought them to be home teachers but they ended up being just members of the Elder's Quorum doing their routine visits. This discouraged me further. At church we were asked to introduce ourselves. This happened nearly every time we attended church for a year. What?
Last October, I was contacted by a fervent visiting teacher who wanted to visit us. She was fervent! She called my phone, Brian's phone, left messages and even stopped by the house. I was never avoiding her and her companion, but schedules didn't work out well. Then one Saturday someone was snow blowing our driveway. I went out to say thank you and this wonderful woman mentioned she was my visiting teacher and wanted to meet. We chatted as best I could and explained our crazy schedule. I then mentioned that if she wanted to count this chat as visit it would be fine with me. She said no, this couldn't count because she had a companion that wanted to meet me. My heart changed a little bit that day. She and her companion have come regularly since then. A couple of months they stopped by twice in a month just cause. I don't know if you could say we are good friends, but these sisters have helped me so much the last couple of months. I think that it was through there association that the ward realized we weren't apartment dwellers. Aidan loves these ladies. He refers to them as his "buddies." He gets excited when he sees them at church and gives them hugs. They have truly been a blessing in our lives.
One sister was called to be the Relief Society President the same week that I told her about the triplets and Brian interviewing for a job in Virginia. The other sister was put into Primary. The next week I was called as a Primary CTR-7 teacher. See association helps get you involved Armga!
It has been a while since I was a Primary teacher and I must say I love this class. I was told they are rowdy, rambuntcious, full of questions and generally crazy. They were all of that and I loved them. I will miss each and every face in that class. I was sad today when I got released. I was sad that I didn't prepare a lesson. Funny how being a teacher for a few weeks can change your heart about a group of people or a ward. Just as I started to change my heart and attitude and people started talking to us and learning our names we must leave. That makes me sad. This has been a quick time in this ward. Far quicker than we ever imagined. But everyone, adults and children will remain in my heart. Thankfully we may be leaving this ward but the church is everywhere especially in Virginia and I am anxious to meet these other members.
Goodbye Clearfield 5th ward. You will be missed. We love you all!
With today being Sunday, I want to say good bye to the Clearfield 5th ward and surrounding neighborhood. We have lived in this ward nearly two years, and even though I didn't realize it until recently, part of my heart will always reside here.
It was here that I got discouraged with the "lack of friendliness in the neighborhood and ward." It was also here that I realized that the above statement was a load of crap and I was the problem. I am my father's daughter and as such I am generally shy until I feel comfortable and have a hard time with chit chat. And to top that off I am a tall, fat girl that no matter how hard I tries to smile most people believe me to be incredibly self confident and/or intimidating. I have been told in the past that only the bravest of people dare approach me and then, and only then, do they realize I am a large teddy bear of sorts. I think this was the problem with my ward and neighborhood. In the first years time in this ward I had spoken to my neighbors across the street about five times, my one next door neighbor twice (she talked with my mother more times than me), my other next door neighbor about a handful of times and only a hello.
Our neighborhood is comprised of many different apartment complexes and widows/widowers (the neighborhood as a whole is older). I recently learned that the older members of the ward have become leary of the newer members moving into the ward because they generally are apartment folk and don't last long.
During our first year here we had never seen a visiting teacher, and two different sets of gentlemen came to our home for visits. I thought them to be home teachers but they ended up being just members of the Elder's Quorum doing their routine visits. This discouraged me further. At church we were asked to introduce ourselves. This happened nearly every time we attended church for a year. What?
Last October, I was contacted by a fervent visiting teacher who wanted to visit us. She was fervent! She called my phone, Brian's phone, left messages and even stopped by the house. I was never avoiding her and her companion, but schedules didn't work out well. Then one Saturday someone was snow blowing our driveway. I went out to say thank you and this wonderful woman mentioned she was my visiting teacher and wanted to meet. We chatted as best I could and explained our crazy schedule. I then mentioned that if she wanted to count this chat as visit it would be fine with me. She said no, this couldn't count because she had a companion that wanted to meet me. My heart changed a little bit that day. She and her companion have come regularly since then. A couple of months they stopped by twice in a month just cause. I don't know if you could say we are good friends, but these sisters have helped me so much the last couple of months. I think that it was through there association that the ward realized we weren't apartment dwellers. Aidan loves these ladies. He refers to them as his "buddies." He gets excited when he sees them at church and gives them hugs. They have truly been a blessing in our lives.
One sister was called to be the Relief Society President the same week that I told her about the triplets and Brian interviewing for a job in Virginia. The other sister was put into Primary. The next week I was called as a Primary CTR-7 teacher. See association helps get you involved Armga!
It has been a while since I was a Primary teacher and I must say I love this class. I was told they are rowdy, rambuntcious, full of questions and generally crazy. They were all of that and I loved them. I will miss each and every face in that class. I was sad today when I got released. I was sad that I didn't prepare a lesson. Funny how being a teacher for a few weeks can change your heart about a group of people or a ward. Just as I started to change my heart and attitude and people started talking to us and learning our names we must leave. That makes me sad. This has been a quick time in this ward. Far quicker than we ever imagined. But everyone, adults and children will remain in my heart. Thankfully we may be leaving this ward but the church is everywhere especially in Virginia and I am anxious to meet these other members.
Goodbye Clearfield 5th ward. You will be missed. We love you all!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Now the adventure is ready to begin...
Finally Brian and I have some information about this job and move.
He was contacted late last night saying that early this morning he was to call the moving specialist. He did so. We were told that we flights would be scheduled for all three of us to leave Utah Saturday April 23rd in the morning. Brian's new employer, Juniper Systems will be contacting a moving company and they would come out early next week to survey our belongings and prepare for a moving truck to come later next week.
Upon arrival in Virginia, Juniper will pay for a rental car for two weeks and temporary housing for one month. The temporary housing will be in an "executive suite." Apparently an executive suite is a fully furnished "apartment" inside or by a hotel. We will have one month to find a rental home. I am mostly excited for the idea of a fully furnished hotel/apartment. I was trying to figure out how to feed Aidan and myself while Brian was at work. Now we will have a full size kitchen to help us out. Sweet!
I wish I could describe my emotions as being scared, frightened, anxious or something that sounded distraught, but I can't. I periodically cry, though I blame all the pregnancy hormones. But overall I am ready for this adventure. I keep comparing it to the mission field. And I tell myself if I could survive that experience, this will be nothing. And I LOVED the MISSION FIELD. Moving to Virginia will not be as tragic as some have suggested. Thanks to technology and Brian's nice paychecks we have Skype, cell phones, television, transportation, Facebook, airplanes and NICU! I feel as though my time in Chile called for a greater amount of sacrifice than this adventure. I won't be alone. I will be surrounded by my all time favorite boys. So I wont be alone, I will be surrounded by my husband and son and my faith. That makes this adventure EASY SMEESHY. (sic)
He was contacted late last night saying that early this morning he was to call the moving specialist. He did so. We were told that we flights would be scheduled for all three of us to leave Utah Saturday April 23rd in the morning. Brian's new employer, Juniper Systems will be contacting a moving company and they would come out early next week to survey our belongings and prepare for a moving truck to come later next week.
Upon arrival in Virginia, Juniper will pay for a rental car for two weeks and temporary housing for one month. The temporary housing will be in an "executive suite." Apparently an executive suite is a fully furnished "apartment" inside or by a hotel. We will have one month to find a rental home. I am mostly excited for the idea of a fully furnished hotel/apartment. I was trying to figure out how to feed Aidan and myself while Brian was at work. Now we will have a full size kitchen to help us out. Sweet!
I wish I could describe my emotions as being scared, frightened, anxious or something that sounded distraught, but I can't. I periodically cry, though I blame all the pregnancy hormones. But overall I am ready for this adventure. I keep comparing it to the mission field. And I tell myself if I could survive that experience, this will be nothing. And I LOVED the MISSION FIELD. Moving to Virginia will not be as tragic as some have suggested. Thanks to technology and Brian's nice paychecks we have Skype, cell phones, television, transportation, Facebook, airplanes and NICU! I feel as though my time in Chile called for a greater amount of sacrifice than this adventure. I won't be alone. I will be surrounded by my all time favorite boys. So I wont be alone, I will be surrounded by my husband and son and my faith. That makes this adventure EASY SMEESHY. (sic)
Monday, April 4, 2011
Officially moving
So last Thursday and early Friday were very exciting and dramatic for the Larson clan. We FINALLY got an offer letter concerning Brian's new job in Virginia. The problem was that it stated all the information we already knew and didn't have any other information. It stated his starting wage, his bonus information, his stock options, etc. But nothing concerning a start date, a moving date, a relocation stipend, etc. It actually said at that bottom of the letter "let us know what Monday you would like to start." WTHeck??? Weird. I, that's right me, had Brian call his contact back and say "Ummm WTheck?" To that the guy responded "Oopps. Let me call you tomorrow morning."
Thursday night Brian was so excited, he started packing and doing last minute yard work. I was so excited I packed one box. That's right, one box. Being fat and pregnant and limited in most everything makes everything interesting. One box and my back hurt and I was getting tight spasms in my stomach area. Call me paranoid, go ahead, but I don't want anything to bring about preterm labor or early labor. I DO NOT WANT BED REST, HOSPITAL BED REST, LIMITED BED REST, OR PREMATURE BABIES!!! If it happens, it happens. But I want to be able to say I didn't ignore anything and I did everything in my power to keep my babies inside. Luckily, Brian understands.
Friday morning we got an early morning phone call, 8AM. His contact had some more information for us. Because he forgot to add some numbers and dates into the original offer letter, he had to redo it and submit it AGAIN for approval. At this time we learned that this gentleman was new to this position (so I am trying to cut him so slack). He found out that they want Brian to start working on April 25th. Good a date to look forward too. He said that he would put us in contact with the relocation specialist on Monday. He will fast track the newer version of the offer letter and hopefully have it to Brian by Tuesday.
So at least we have a starting date! April 25th seems so soon and yet so far away. Lucky for us we wanted a quick start date. My pregnancy clock is ticking and we need to move while the doctors still tell me I can, move early enough to get established with a new OBGYN and fetal specialist, figure out our hospital situation, and especially get out there early enough so that there is no drama with transferring insurance companies. So April 25th is good.
Virginia or BUST!!!
Thursday night Brian was so excited, he started packing and doing last minute yard work. I was so excited I packed one box. That's right, one box. Being fat and pregnant and limited in most everything makes everything interesting. One box and my back hurt and I was getting tight spasms in my stomach area. Call me paranoid, go ahead, but I don't want anything to bring about preterm labor or early labor. I DO NOT WANT BED REST, HOSPITAL BED REST, LIMITED BED REST, OR PREMATURE BABIES!!! If it happens, it happens. But I want to be able to say I didn't ignore anything and I did everything in my power to keep my babies inside. Luckily, Brian understands.
Friday morning we got an early morning phone call, 8AM. His contact had some more information for us. Because he forgot to add some numbers and dates into the original offer letter, he had to redo it and submit it AGAIN for approval. At this time we learned that this gentleman was new to this position (so I am trying to cut him so slack). He found out that they want Brian to start working on April 25th. Good a date to look forward too. He said that he would put us in contact with the relocation specialist on Monday. He will fast track the newer version of the offer letter and hopefully have it to Brian by Tuesday.
So at least we have a starting date! April 25th seems so soon and yet so far away. Lucky for us we wanted a quick start date. My pregnancy clock is ticking and we need to move while the doctors still tell me I can, move early enough to get established with a new OBGYN and fetal specialist, figure out our hospital situation, and especially get out there early enough so that there is no drama with transferring insurance companies. So April 25th is good.
Virginia or BUST!!!
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Big news? Possibly, but not official yet
I have pictures but have decided not to post them. We had an ultrasound yesterday, at 16 weeks. It was just a follow up ultrasound to ensure that my little ones are growing and doing well. I asked, in a pleading tone, if we could find out the genders. The tech said it was still early but she would try.
All three babies are measuring between 15weeks 4 days and 15 weeks 6 days. They said not to worry because they are still growing. The estimate that all three babies are about 5 ounces each. According to what I have read, babies at 16 weeks are closer to 3.5 ounces. Not to much to brag about but I am excited that they are thriving because this week I have had a hard time eating. I am not hungry at all during the day, but get hungry for dinner. I eat a regular size meal for dinner (I call this the "pregnancy gourge") and then feel sick for a couple of hours. Wake in the middle of the night starving for a breakfast bar or a peanut butter cracker sandwich thing and then I am not hungry. I have been trying to supplement with the smoothies and V8, but I can promise you I am not eating anywhere near the "4000 calorie diet" recommended for triplet mothers. So hearing that they are bigger than the average makes me happy. All heartbeats were strong, it is so amazing to watch your little ones heartbeating on the monitor. Amazing! We also were able to see, more definatively a membrane separating BABY A and B. This news made me so happy, because now we don't have to worry about babies getting tangled in each others umbilical cord. Yeah for something that is truly a blessing!
Then the tech took some time and tried to find genders for us. Baby C had something, but nothing giving us a for sure sign of a boy part. But we did see something, so for now Baby C is a boy. Brian thinks it looks like an umbilical cord, but who knows. Baby B clearly and without a doubt has a penis. She got a great shot of a "little button." Baby A we never saw anything and couldn't find anything either. Baby B kept photo-bombing the shot and wouldn't move his little head out of the way. But by educated deduction of Baby A and B being identical twins, Baby A is a boy as well. These results were not very encouraging for those of you who have wanted a girl this time (myself included) but nothing is set in stone until the end of April, when we have the official ultrasound for genders. I will say this though, I am ecstatic at my babies. I am so thrilled to be pregnant with triplets and to have them,seemingly, thriving and growing and being healthy babies. Boys/Girls, I don't care as much as I do for healthy, strong babies that require no NICU. That is my desire and goal. I am aware that it may be odd and not realistic to NOT have the babies spend ANY time in NICU but, at this point, MY GOAL is to do all I can to ensure that they go full term and come home with me from the hospital.
Current names for the boys.
Gavin Michael
Talon Jeffrey
We are in need of a third (if the ultrasound proves correct). We like the idea of keeping with our unofficial theme of how the first names end. First we have AidAN, then GavIN, the TalON. The third name we would like to end in "en", "un" or "yn." Any suggestions would be splendid. We are avoiding sounding alike names. For example, it would be easy to pick Braiden, Braidyn, Cayden, Jayden, Hayden, Madden, etc. But that would be a mouthful later on in life when I am yelling at my boys to clean their rooms. "Jayden, clean your room!" and Aidan replies "Mom I already did it!" Confusing! :)
All three babies are measuring between 15weeks 4 days and 15 weeks 6 days. They said not to worry because they are still growing. The estimate that all three babies are about 5 ounces each. According to what I have read, babies at 16 weeks are closer to 3.5 ounces. Not to much to brag about but I am excited that they are thriving because this week I have had a hard time eating. I am not hungry at all during the day, but get hungry for dinner. I eat a regular size meal for dinner (I call this the "pregnancy gourge") and then feel sick for a couple of hours. Wake in the middle of the night starving for a breakfast bar or a peanut butter cracker sandwich thing and then I am not hungry. I have been trying to supplement with the smoothies and V8, but I can promise you I am not eating anywhere near the "4000 calorie diet" recommended for triplet mothers. So hearing that they are bigger than the average makes me happy. All heartbeats were strong, it is so amazing to watch your little ones heartbeating on the monitor. Amazing! We also were able to see, more definatively a membrane separating BABY A and B. This news made me so happy, because now we don't have to worry about babies getting tangled in each others umbilical cord. Yeah for something that is truly a blessing!
Then the tech took some time and tried to find genders for us. Baby C had something, but nothing giving us a for sure sign of a boy part. But we did see something, so for now Baby C is a boy. Brian thinks it looks like an umbilical cord, but who knows. Baby B clearly and without a doubt has a penis. She got a great shot of a "little button." Baby A we never saw anything and couldn't find anything either. Baby B kept photo-bombing the shot and wouldn't move his little head out of the way. But by educated deduction of Baby A and B being identical twins, Baby A is a boy as well. These results were not very encouraging for those of you who have wanted a girl this time (myself included) but nothing is set in stone until the end of April, when we have the official ultrasound for genders. I will say this though, I am ecstatic at my babies. I am so thrilled to be pregnant with triplets and to have them,seemingly, thriving and growing and being healthy babies. Boys/Girls, I don't care as much as I do for healthy, strong babies that require no NICU. That is my desire and goal. I am aware that it may be odd and not realistic to NOT have the babies spend ANY time in NICU but, at this point, MY GOAL is to do all I can to ensure that they go full term and come home with me from the hospital.
Current names for the boys.
Gavin Michael
Talon Jeffrey
We are in need of a third (if the ultrasound proves correct). We like the idea of keeping with our unofficial theme of how the first names end. First we have AidAN, then GavIN, the TalON. The third name we would like to end in "en", "un" or "yn." Any suggestions would be splendid. We are avoiding sounding alike names. For example, it would be easy to pick Braiden, Braidyn, Cayden, Jayden, Hayden, Madden, etc. But that would be a mouthful later on in life when I am yelling at my boys to clean their rooms. "Jayden, clean your room!" and Aidan replies "Mom I already did it!" Confusing! :)
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
The triplets first pictures
Today we had an ultrasound and a consultation with the newest member of our "healthy baby team" Dr. Silver from the U of U. Lucky for us we didn't have to go down to the U, he came to see us (and others I suppose) and Davis Hospital, a whopping four minutes from our house!
It took the ultrasound tech about 20 minutes to get all the good shots of our babies. She had to take three times the pictures of the heartbeat, the head size, the tummy size, the femur size and the portrait pictures, not to mention the together pictures of the babies (the best she could do). It was so excited to see my babies on the screen. One plus to having multiples is lots and lots of ultrasounds.
Dr. Silver gave us a run down of lots of possibilities and potential problems that we need to be prepared for during this pregnancy. Because we have an amazing doctor and we have been reading lots of information on the internet and in good books, nothing he said came as a surprise and we had already talked and discussed many scenarios. Brian and I have weird pillow talk. :) He told us to be mindful of hospitalization bedrest, bedrest, gestastional diabetes, toxemia, preterm labor, early labor and a c-section. He also reiterated the necesacity to basically ignore our due date and pay attention to my body and what it and the babies are telling me to do. He also mentioned that he could not tell for sure if they were identical twins or not but not to rule out identical triplets...not sure how that works but WOW!!
He said that ALL the babies looked good. All the babies were measuring at 14 weeks 1 day, which is right on schedule seeing as to how I am currently 14 weeks 1 day pregnant. :) Heartbeats were all strong and one baby, BABY C was very chill and relaxed in its own little sac. Just sprawled out and enjoying the scenery. BABY A and BABY B were kicking and punching each other, which is what I would expect.
Sweet BABY A, aka Ironman (thanks to Aidan).
Side view of head and body.
Sweet BABY B (Spiderman).
A looking down on view of head and body.
BABY C (Wolverine)
The relaxed, hand behind the head shot.
The picture of the twins,
looking down at their heads.
A picture of BABY A and BABY C.
They are in two different sacs.
BABY C is the top of the head,
BABY A is a side view.
It took the ultrasound tech about 20 minutes to get all the good shots of our babies. She had to take three times the pictures of the heartbeat, the head size, the tummy size, the femur size and the portrait pictures, not to mention the together pictures of the babies (the best she could do). It was so excited to see my babies on the screen. One plus to having multiples is lots and lots of ultrasounds.
Dr. Silver gave us a run down of lots of possibilities and potential problems that we need to be prepared for during this pregnancy. Because we have an amazing doctor and we have been reading lots of information on the internet and in good books, nothing he said came as a surprise and we had already talked and discussed many scenarios. Brian and I have weird pillow talk. :) He told us to be mindful of hospitalization bedrest, bedrest, gestastional diabetes, toxemia, preterm labor, early labor and a c-section. He also reiterated the necesacity to basically ignore our due date and pay attention to my body and what it and the babies are telling me to do. He also mentioned that he could not tell for sure if they were identical twins or not but not to rule out identical triplets...not sure how that works but WOW!!
He said that ALL the babies looked good. All the babies were measuring at 14 weeks 1 day, which is right on schedule seeing as to how I am currently 14 weeks 1 day pregnant. :) Heartbeats were all strong and one baby, BABY C was very chill and relaxed in its own little sac. Just sprawled out and enjoying the scenery. BABY A and BABY B were kicking and punching each other, which is what I would expect.
Sweet BABY A, aka Ironman (thanks to Aidan).
Side view of head and body.
Sweet BABY B (Spiderman).
A looking down on view of head and body.
BABY C (Wolverine)The relaxed, hand behind the head shot.
The picture of the twins,
looking down at their heads.
A picture of BABY A and BABY C.
They are in two different sacs.
BABY C is the top of the head,
BABY A is a side view.
I am so excited to meet my babies. I was hoping to find out the genders, but Dr. Silver said that they are not only too little, there isn't a lot of space for them to be showing off their goods. :)
We have another ultrasound in two weeks and another in five weeks. Hopefully one of these two additional ultrasounds will tell us the genders. Fingers crossed.
We have another ultrasound in two weeks and another in five weeks. Hopefully one of these two additional ultrasounds will tell us the genders. Fingers crossed.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Fun times in St. George: Trip to the park
Last weekend Brian and I decided to have a spur of the moment trip to sunny St. George. It was actually a crazy thing. Apparently back in December, Brian requested off Thursday-Saturday of last weekend. This weekend was the NASCAR race in Vegas and we normally head down. But this year we decided not to buy tickets on the off chance Brian got another job out of state. Well as time went on we decided just not to go to the races and go down the third weekend of March with our good friends, the McFaddens.
On Thursday Brian arrived at work to the amazement of his co-workers. They assumed he was going on vacation. About half way through his shift someone decided to ask him about it. Brian completely forgot. He then called me to tell me his funny story. I mentioned that if we could afford it, I am always willing to head south to visit my parents and brothers. He said he didn't think we could afford such a spontaneous trip. Boo Hoo.
Well at about 5PM (he gets off at 730), he called and said he was leaving work in a half hour and we were going to St. George. It would be a cheap quick trip but let's get out of dodge anyway. Once he came home we quickly and rapidly packed our bags and headed south. We finally left northern Utah about 8 PM.
At 10PM, we stopped in Santaquin. As a pregnant woman my needs to stop, stretch my legs and use the facilities are frequent. As we were readying to get back into the car we noticed the snow falling. No big deal, its just snow. As we got onto the freeway we got nervous. Extreme whiteout conditions. Brian was driving 25 mph on the freeway and barely able to see the lines on the road. We traveled that way, anxiously and nervously, until we hit Nephi. Once we hit Nephi we were out of the snow and just had some wet roads. We stopped again in Fillmore, pregnancy reasons. LOL! At this point some concerned women were talking with Brian about the horrible and scary conditions through Beaver and the other passes headed south. They saw many spin offs and pile ups and were terrified for us (the young family with a pregnant wife). Brian then pulled out his phone and started researching weather conditions. Apparently the passes in southern Utah were hit bad but were fine now. With Brian's confidence we continued forth, grateful for new tires and suspension on the car--Christmas 2010. The passes were beat up but nothing as scary as the whiteout. We finally arrived in St. George at 2AM. That is the longest it has ever taken me to make it down. Average time, with a toddler, 4 hours 45 minutes maximum.
We didn't do much during our stay in St. George. Just visited and relaxed. Aidan enjoyed playing with Ezra, they are best cousins. We tried to contact Harrison and family to no avail. Jacob took us all out to dinner on Friday for some yummy Chinese (I did give him some promptings). Saturday was by far Aidan's favorite day. We went to the park and had pizza (thanks again Uncle Jake!), fed some ducks, did some fishing, and played at a jungle gym. Here are some pictures. I miss delightful St. George weather already. *sigh*
Aidan and Brian loving the pizza as well.
These ducks were eager and good eaters.
Aidan loved feeding them balls of bread.
And the ducks loved him back.
Ezra enjoying some fun time on the grass.
On Thursday Brian arrived at work to the amazement of his co-workers. They assumed he was going on vacation. About half way through his shift someone decided to ask him about it. Brian completely forgot. He then called me to tell me his funny story. I mentioned that if we could afford it, I am always willing to head south to visit my parents and brothers. He said he didn't think we could afford such a spontaneous trip. Boo Hoo.
Well at about 5PM (he gets off at 730), he called and said he was leaving work in a half hour and we were going to St. George. It would be a cheap quick trip but let's get out of dodge anyway. Once he came home we quickly and rapidly packed our bags and headed south. We finally left northern Utah about 8 PM.
At 10PM, we stopped in Santaquin. As a pregnant woman my needs to stop, stretch my legs and use the facilities are frequent. As we were readying to get back into the car we noticed the snow falling. No big deal, its just snow. As we got onto the freeway we got nervous. Extreme whiteout conditions. Brian was driving 25 mph on the freeway and barely able to see the lines on the road. We traveled that way, anxiously and nervously, until we hit Nephi. Once we hit Nephi we were out of the snow and just had some wet roads. We stopped again in Fillmore, pregnancy reasons. LOL! At this point some concerned women were talking with Brian about the horrible and scary conditions through Beaver and the other passes headed south. They saw many spin offs and pile ups and were terrified for us (the young family with a pregnant wife). Brian then pulled out his phone and started researching weather conditions. Apparently the passes in southern Utah were hit bad but were fine now. With Brian's confidence we continued forth, grateful for new tires and suspension on the car--Christmas 2010. The passes were beat up but nothing as scary as the whiteout. We finally arrived in St. George at 2AM. That is the longest it has ever taken me to make it down. Average time, with a toddler, 4 hours 45 minutes maximum.
We didn't do much during our stay in St. George. Just visited and relaxed. Aidan enjoyed playing with Ezra, they are best cousins. We tried to contact Harrison and family to no avail. Jacob took us all out to dinner on Friday for some yummy Chinese (I did give him some promptings). Saturday was by far Aidan's favorite day. We went to the park and had pizza (thanks again Uncle Jake!), fed some ducks, did some fishing, and played at a jungle gym. Here are some pictures. I miss delightful St. George weather already. *sigh*
Grandma and Grandpa enjoying some pizza.
Aidan and Brian loving the pizza as well.
These ducks were eager and good eaters.
Aidan loved feeding them balls of bread.
And the ducks loved him back.
Ezra enjoying some fun time on the grass.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Aidan's and the triplets
Aidan already loves his baby siblings.
-Every night he likes to kiss my belly three times and say good night.
-He likes to rub my tummy and sing songs to the babies. Nothing coherent, but words in a la-la-la tune.
-He already had names for the babies. The twins are Spiderman and Ironman. And the singleton is Wolverine.
-If you ask him how many babies are in my tummy he happily and eagerly replies "5!"
-He keeps asking to go to the store to buy the babies some toys. That way they have toys of their own.
-We are trying to potty train so that if I get put on bed rest it will be one less thing to worry about. Aidan likes to tell me, whilst on the toilet, that he will help change baby diapers because "changing diapers isn't as hard as going on the toilet Mom."
-Every night he likes to kiss my belly three times and say good night.
-He likes to rub my tummy and sing songs to the babies. Nothing coherent, but words in a la-la-la tune.
-He already had names for the babies. The twins are Spiderman and Ironman. And the singleton is Wolverine.
-If you ask him how many babies are in my tummy he happily and eagerly replies "5!"
-He keeps asking to go to the store to buy the babies some toys. That way they have toys of their own.
-We are trying to potty train so that if I get put on bed rest it will be one less thing to worry about. Aidan likes to tell me, whilst on the toilet, that he will help change baby diapers because "changing diapers isn't as hard as going on the toilet Mom."
Brian has some good news
Brian still hasn't heard from Virgina about that job....
But on the off chance that falls through Brian recently did interview for another position at his current place of employment. It is for a CTFS position (I don't know what that means). But what I do know is that is it is the same basic job that he interviewed for in Virginia. The good news for us is that it guarantees him a position if everyone else gets outsourced to India, a raise and a new schedule. Yippie! We don't know what the raise is, but any little bit will help at this point. His new schedule is 11-730PM (same hours) but now he his Monday-Friday like most normal people. Yippie!
But on the off chance that falls through Brian recently did interview for another position at his current place of employment. It is for a CTFS position (I don't know what that means). But what I do know is that is it is the same basic job that he interviewed for in Virginia. The good news for us is that it guarantees him a position if everyone else gets outsourced to India, a raise and a new schedule. Yippie! We don't know what the raise is, but any little bit will help at this point. His new schedule is 11-730PM (same hours) but now he his Monday-Friday like most normal people. Yippie!
One heartbeat will suffice...
So today we had our fourth doctor's office visit since February 7. Crazy! I feel like I live there. But one perk is that the receptionist is aware of who we are when we walk into the office and asks "how are you today? has anything changed in your contact information? have a seat."
Today's doctor's appointment was incredibly quick and probably not worth the hassle, but I know nothing and if the doctor says its important then so be it. They took my blood pressure and weight. My blood pressure was 112/79, a little high for me but it in the okay range. My weight has gone down by another pound according to their scale. But compared to what I saw on our scale last Wednesday I have gained two pounds. Still a loss in the doctor's eyes are far more important. I also peed in a cup. All my levels are fine. What they check for I still don't know. But if it is good, great.
Once we saw the doctor he quickly checked for heartbeats. He only found one today but it was 174, good and strong. I keep asking if I need to be worried. He says no. I feel like if I have three babies inside me, we should check all three heartbeats to ensure healthy babies. He says it is nearly impossible. "Don't worry Katie. I will tell you when you need to be concerned or scared or stressed. Do you have any reason to believe something happened to the other babies?" Well no. "Then your fine!" I love that my doctor can see right into my head and say exactly what I need to hear.
Next week we meet with a Dr. Silver. He is a peranatologist specializing in multiple births out of the U of U. Dr. Hughes, our OB, has mentioned that he will do a pretty in depth get to know me and the babies visit/ultrasound. I am excited. We haven't seen the babies in four weeks and never got any pictures, so pictures would be fabulous. I also have this hope that he will be able to tell us what some of the genders are on the babies. Doubtful I know, especially since we will only be 14 weeks along, but a girl can hope right?
A big thank you to Grandma and Grandpa for coming with me to my visit. Brian had to go to a training shift for a new position available at his work. Grandma came in and heard the baby with me and grandpa played with Aidan in the waiting room. I have pretty amazing grandparents. I have know idea what I would do with out them...good think I don't have to imagine!
Today's doctor's appointment was incredibly quick and probably not worth the hassle, but I know nothing and if the doctor says its important then so be it. They took my blood pressure and weight. My blood pressure was 112/79, a little high for me but it in the okay range. My weight has gone down by another pound according to their scale. But compared to what I saw on our scale last Wednesday I have gained two pounds. Still a loss in the doctor's eyes are far more important. I also peed in a cup. All my levels are fine. What they check for I still don't know. But if it is good, great.
Once we saw the doctor he quickly checked for heartbeats. He only found one today but it was 174, good and strong. I keep asking if I need to be worried. He says no. I feel like if I have three babies inside me, we should check all three heartbeats to ensure healthy babies. He says it is nearly impossible. "Don't worry Katie. I will tell you when you need to be concerned or scared or stressed. Do you have any reason to believe something happened to the other babies?" Well no. "Then your fine!" I love that my doctor can see right into my head and say exactly what I need to hear.
Next week we meet with a Dr. Silver. He is a peranatologist specializing in multiple births out of the U of U. Dr. Hughes, our OB, has mentioned that he will do a pretty in depth get to know me and the babies visit/ultrasound. I am excited. We haven't seen the babies in four weeks and never got any pictures, so pictures would be fabulous. I also have this hope that he will be able to tell us what some of the genders are on the babies. Doubtful I know, especially since we will only be 14 weeks along, but a girl can hope right?
A big thank you to Grandma and Grandpa for coming with me to my visit. Brian had to go to a training shift for a new position available at his work. Grandma came in and heard the baby with me and grandpa played with Aidan in the waiting room. I have pretty amazing grandparents. I have know idea what I would do with out them...good think I don't have to imagine!
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Secrets out! Everyone get excited!
So we announced earlier than expected our surprise to Facebook. I choose to do this earlier because my life was surrounded by this secret and it was driving me crazy. I don't usually need to talk about things in my life, like with girlfriends and the like, but this secret was big and I needed to talk about it. I needed to be able to express my sentiments and ask questions. I am mean really, how many people do you know who have had triplets? I am beyond ecstatic but also very consumed with many, many other emotions. And those emotions change from one moment to the next. I am guessing these emotions are because of three times the pregnancy hormones going on inside my body.
And now comes the boring part of this post. I wanted to share my story, mostly for the journaling aspect of this blog.
The first part of January I was feeling blah. So I took it as a sign that my weight was depressing me so I decided to get serious about burning some calories. I am in love with Dance Central for the Kinect. We played everyday for like three weeks (beginning in December). But as I was dancing my heart out one day my stomach began to hurt. Keep in mind that I had been feeling blah and I thought it was just a weight issue. But on January 10th my stomach hurt. Almost like I was pulling muscles in my stomach. Dance Central isn't that crazy, so I stopped for a couple of days to try and make the pain in my stomach, and then my back go away. On January 12th I decided to take a pregnancy test. I was about a week late. Test kind of had a positive line, but not really so we decided to take it as a NO. Three days later still nothing had changed with my body so I was getting frustrated. Then on Saturday January 15, 2011 I freaked out. I began to weep, sob, get hysterical what happened you ask. Nothing. Aidan was watching Transformers (with Shia LaBeouf) and I lost it. I scared Aidan. He asked that I call daddy. My three year old realized mom was a freak and requested she call for help. I then regrouped and decided that I was way too emotional and took another test. EXTERMELY and QUICKLY positive. Then I did as Aidan requested but only after I sent Brian a picture. He was shocked too.
All that weekend I sobbed. Mainly because I am always able to find out early, super early that I am pregnant. With my last pregnancy (lost pregnancy) we found out at 2 weeks pregnant. Had an appointment at 4 weeks and had no heart beat, just a sac. Then we went back at 6 weeks and had a heart beat and then began losing the baby at 6 weeks 4 days. I was so scared of the next few weeks. We kept our pregnancy secret for about a week. And then many close to us started asking what was wrong. Nothing wrong, just trying to be cautious and keep the scary emotions to ourselves. At that point we realized it would be best if some family knew our secret. That way prayers could be offered up for this new development. I know I sound crazy but I really was. :) We made a doctors appointment for February 7. Aidan's 3rd birthday. We went to the doctor and he confirmed our pregnancy and then he decided that since the last pregnancy was not successful he just wanted a ultrasound to check on the baby. We got an appointment for the next day. Now things get interesting.
The next day we go and begin to get our ultrasound, the basic doppler. The tech put the microphone thing on my tummy and instantly I saw something crazy but I really don't know what I am looking at so I kept my mouth shut. She had it on my stomach for about 3-5 seconds when she said "I think it would be best if we do this vaginally." Okay. Now I am starting to get concerned. With the last pregnancy they need to go in vaginally too.
She then begins again and I hear Brian gasp, the tech is mumbling to herself and I am looking on the screen. Truly unsure if I am seeing two sacs. Brian gasps again and the tech asks me what I see. I told her I was unsure. Brian says "I see two sacs, two babies. Twins?" She says nope. Then she looks at me and says "I see triplets. Two sacs, three babies." I instantly go into shock quietly sobbing. I was delighted to see my babies, but scared. I was scared thinking about trying to keep one incubated and thriving, now there are THREE!!!
The tech then begins giving us a detailed explanation of what we are looking at. Two sacs. One sac has two babies...identical twins. The second sac, a "singleton". She then calculates my due date as being on September 12. That put us at 9 weeks pregnant. Sounds correct. She measures my babies. All three are measuring at 7 weeks 5 days, plus or minus a day. She said for triplets that is FANTASTIC, she is excited. Then she let us listen to the heartbeats. Each baby had a very strong, good rthym. She then beings to tell us all the things that will be now expected of us during this new pregnancy. Bi-weekly visits, visits with a prenatal specialist, lots of ultrasounds, preterm labor, etc etc. In all the commotion we left and forgot to get a picture of our babies.
Then we went to make an appointment with our doctor. The receptionist ask me when we want to see him, the reason, etc. I begin crying again only this time hysterically. I can't say anything. Brian talks to her. He tells her triplets. She gets a big smile. "Congrats! How long have you been on treatments?" Brian and I look at each other and respond "no treatments, natural." She then gets a concerned look on her face, looks at me, touches my hand and says "its just shock. You will be fine. You babies will be fine.Congrats!" That makes me cry a little more and realize that it is shock and that I need to calm down, for my BABIES!
We left the doctors office I looked at Brian and said "I love you honey...but I need my mommy, now!"He smiled his amazingly understanding smile and agreed. I immediately called my mom.
Brian and I had originally planned to keep it a huge secret but we decided lots of prayers were an absolute must now. My mom was concerned (mainly because I was hysterically crying and she couldn't understand me) and then excited. She asked if she could tell one person. Yes mom, go ahead. Side note when I called her later that day she said "please don't be mad, but once I got off the phone I jumped up and said triplets really loud and now everyone in my office knows." :) She is so cute. We had many fun experiences that day telling everyone of our news. It was fun to hear everyone's response and reactions.
Since then we have seen our doctor twice. Once as a follow up to the first discovery ultrasound and the second was a check up. He could only find two heartbeats but he assured us that finding two was good because they are so hard to seperate with the audio doppler. He tracked two heartbeats one was 185 hbpm and another one was 165 hbpm. He said that was awesome! We have since made an appointment to see him again and the prenatal specialist. Things are going quickly but slowly at the same time.
I am currently 12 weeks along, nearly through with my first trimester. I already have grown out of my big levi's and some sweats. I am currently wearing some of my maternity clothes from when I had Aidan. Some of these clothes I only wore the last two weeks, because I didn't need them.
Facts about triplets that we have learned:
-My due date is Sept 12. Most women with triplets deliver at 28-32 weeks. Almost no one goes full term. On average twins are born at 36 weeks and triplets at 30 weeks. 30 weeks puts us at the middle of July. What! So soon!
-Identical babies must be identical in everything. Meaning what their gender is. We are hoping for one of each.
-Women pregnant with triplets grow three times faster than women pregnant with one baby, or a singleton as the lingo describes. Barely three months and full term maternity clothes already. Okay sounds normal.
-It is rare that triplets don't spend any time in the NICU. My doctor is convinced that with my stature (height and weight and general way my body is) that he thinks I should be able to go a long time and avoid preterm labor. For the first time in my life my fatness might be a good thing.
-He also believes that I may just be on the best weight loss program ever! He doesn't imagine I will gain a terrible amount of weight. Women on average need to gain 50-80 pounds to ensure healthy triplets.
-And last but not least, I am convinced that the Lord has chosen to bless us with triplets because he must be trying to evacuate heaven. Otherwise why give one family so many blessings at once?
As I learn and experience new things in the pregnancy I will share with you all. Now I can be open and forthright, no more secrets.
And now comes the boring part of this post. I wanted to share my story, mostly for the journaling aspect of this blog.
The first part of January I was feeling blah. So I took it as a sign that my weight was depressing me so I decided to get serious about burning some calories. I am in love with Dance Central for the Kinect. We played everyday for like three weeks (beginning in December). But as I was dancing my heart out one day my stomach began to hurt. Keep in mind that I had been feeling blah and I thought it was just a weight issue. But on January 10th my stomach hurt. Almost like I was pulling muscles in my stomach. Dance Central isn't that crazy, so I stopped for a couple of days to try and make the pain in my stomach, and then my back go away. On January 12th I decided to take a pregnancy test. I was about a week late. Test kind of had a positive line, but not really so we decided to take it as a NO. Three days later still nothing had changed with my body so I was getting frustrated. Then on Saturday January 15, 2011 I freaked out. I began to weep, sob, get hysterical what happened you ask. Nothing. Aidan was watching Transformers (with Shia LaBeouf) and I lost it. I scared Aidan. He asked that I call daddy. My three year old realized mom was a freak and requested she call for help. I then regrouped and decided that I was way too emotional and took another test. EXTERMELY and QUICKLY positive. Then I did as Aidan requested but only after I sent Brian a picture. He was shocked too.
All that weekend I sobbed. Mainly because I am always able to find out early, super early that I am pregnant. With my last pregnancy (lost pregnancy) we found out at 2 weeks pregnant. Had an appointment at 4 weeks and had no heart beat, just a sac. Then we went back at 6 weeks and had a heart beat and then began losing the baby at 6 weeks 4 days. I was so scared of the next few weeks. We kept our pregnancy secret for about a week. And then many close to us started asking what was wrong. Nothing wrong, just trying to be cautious and keep the scary emotions to ourselves. At that point we realized it would be best if some family knew our secret. That way prayers could be offered up for this new development. I know I sound crazy but I really was. :) We made a doctors appointment for February 7. Aidan's 3rd birthday. We went to the doctor and he confirmed our pregnancy and then he decided that since the last pregnancy was not successful he just wanted a ultrasound to check on the baby. We got an appointment for the next day. Now things get interesting.
The next day we go and begin to get our ultrasound, the basic doppler. The tech put the microphone thing on my tummy and instantly I saw something crazy but I really don't know what I am looking at so I kept my mouth shut. She had it on my stomach for about 3-5 seconds when she said "I think it would be best if we do this vaginally." Okay. Now I am starting to get concerned. With the last pregnancy they need to go in vaginally too.
She then begins again and I hear Brian gasp, the tech is mumbling to herself and I am looking on the screen. Truly unsure if I am seeing two sacs. Brian gasps again and the tech asks me what I see. I told her I was unsure. Brian says "I see two sacs, two babies. Twins?" She says nope. Then she looks at me and says "I see triplets. Two sacs, three babies." I instantly go into shock quietly sobbing. I was delighted to see my babies, but scared. I was scared thinking about trying to keep one incubated and thriving, now there are THREE!!!
The tech then begins giving us a detailed explanation of what we are looking at. Two sacs. One sac has two babies...identical twins. The second sac, a "singleton". She then calculates my due date as being on September 12. That put us at 9 weeks pregnant. Sounds correct. She measures my babies. All three are measuring at 7 weeks 5 days, plus or minus a day. She said for triplets that is FANTASTIC, she is excited. Then she let us listen to the heartbeats. Each baby had a very strong, good rthym. She then beings to tell us all the things that will be now expected of us during this new pregnancy. Bi-weekly visits, visits with a prenatal specialist, lots of ultrasounds, preterm labor, etc etc. In all the commotion we left and forgot to get a picture of our babies.
Then we went to make an appointment with our doctor. The receptionist ask me when we want to see him, the reason, etc. I begin crying again only this time hysterically. I can't say anything. Brian talks to her. He tells her triplets. She gets a big smile. "Congrats! How long have you been on treatments?" Brian and I look at each other and respond "no treatments, natural." She then gets a concerned look on her face, looks at me, touches my hand and says "its just shock. You will be fine. You babies will be fine.Congrats!" That makes me cry a little more and realize that it is shock and that I need to calm down, for my BABIES!
We left the doctors office I looked at Brian and said "I love you honey...but I need my mommy, now!"He smiled his amazingly understanding smile and agreed. I immediately called my mom.
Brian and I had originally planned to keep it a huge secret but we decided lots of prayers were an absolute must now. My mom was concerned (mainly because I was hysterically crying and she couldn't understand me) and then excited. She asked if she could tell one person. Yes mom, go ahead. Side note when I called her later that day she said "please don't be mad, but once I got off the phone I jumped up and said triplets really loud and now everyone in my office knows." :) She is so cute. We had many fun experiences that day telling everyone of our news. It was fun to hear everyone's response and reactions.
Since then we have seen our doctor twice. Once as a follow up to the first discovery ultrasound and the second was a check up. He could only find two heartbeats but he assured us that finding two was good because they are so hard to seperate with the audio doppler. He tracked two heartbeats one was 185 hbpm and another one was 165 hbpm. He said that was awesome! We have since made an appointment to see him again and the prenatal specialist. Things are going quickly but slowly at the same time.
I am currently 12 weeks along, nearly through with my first trimester. I already have grown out of my big levi's and some sweats. I am currently wearing some of my maternity clothes from when I had Aidan. Some of these clothes I only wore the last two weeks, because I didn't need them.
Facts about triplets that we have learned:
-My due date is Sept 12. Most women with triplets deliver at 28-32 weeks. Almost no one goes full term. On average twins are born at 36 weeks and triplets at 30 weeks. 30 weeks puts us at the middle of July. What! So soon!
-Identical babies must be identical in everything. Meaning what their gender is. We are hoping for one of each.
-Women pregnant with triplets grow three times faster than women pregnant with one baby, or a singleton as the lingo describes. Barely three months and full term maternity clothes already. Okay sounds normal.
-It is rare that triplets don't spend any time in the NICU. My doctor is convinced that with my stature (height and weight and general way my body is) that he thinks I should be able to go a long time and avoid preterm labor. For the first time in my life my fatness might be a good thing.
-He also believes that I may just be on the best weight loss program ever! He doesn't imagine I will gain a terrible amount of weight. Women on average need to gain 50-80 pounds to ensure healthy triplets.
-And last but not least, I am convinced that the Lord has chosen to bless us with triplets because he must be trying to evacuate heaven. Otherwise why give one family so many blessings at once?
As I learn and experience new things in the pregnancy I will share with you all. Now I can be open and forthright, no more secrets.
Friday, February 4, 2011
So much and yet so little
Nothing like slacking on the blogging front. Sorry dedicated readers, if I even have them anymore. Like has been busy and stressful as of late and honestly, I haven't had the desire to blog much. I get on and check my blog everyday hoping to read others updated blogs but I have been plain lazy.
Some of our updates. As I type Brian is on an airplane flying home to me. He has been gone about 25 hours and in 4 more hours I get to see him again. I can't believe how much I miss him right now. Maybe its because I know he is on a plane and not at work. Maybe its because I haven't felt well lately and Brian always makes me feel better. That being said...Brian flew to Virginia to interview for a position with Juniper Systems (his parent company) to work with/for AT&T labs. This job would be ideal for Brian. All hands on, tinkering with computer equipment trying to find out problems and stuff. Why is Brian looking for a new job? Well he does have a job, but there are pretty strong rumors that have frightened his collegues and friends to find other positions before his queue gets completely outsourced to India. That's right Brian is being outsourced. I find this funny just because I always thought it was a joke and not a reality. Remember in Office Space when they talked about it? I laughed too. But the outsourcing scare must be legit because in the last three weeks about five or six of Brian's collegues have flown the coup and found other stable employment elsewhere. Why did he fly to Virginia for an interview? Are there not positions around here? There are positions around here but there are plenty of unemployed network engineers looking at them too. Why did we decide to look out of state for employment opportunities? Outside of Utah there are plenty of job opportunities. Brian and I are excited for a new adventure in our lives. I enjoy Utah, family, my home, my friends, etc. But why not take the leap and get out of dodge? Oh that's right the other big deciding factor. Jobs in Utah are basically in the $40,000-60,000 salary range. Out of state they range from $50,000 to 150,000. We have done our research and we are aware of cost of living increases but seriously that is a lot of cash. The job he just interviewed for was asking between $85,000-110,000 starting with awesome benefits and bonus potential (up to 14% of his yearly wage). !!!! So lets pretend for a moment shall we. Great. If Brian gets this position and they offer him $85,000 it is the equivalent of making $65,000 here in Utah. Both are raises and both we can live with. Plus I am a history major and I enjoy vacationing back East (mainly the DC area) and now I can be there to see all the things that I still haven't been able to visit. And trust me that list is HUGE!
In other news my Aidan turns 3 on Monday. 3, my baby is 3! Good grief where has the time gone! We plan to have an Iron Man themed birthday and for Aidan it is going to rock! I will post pictures and blog about that later this week.
Brian and I were recently given callings in our ward. Brian is the Ward Employment Specialist and I am the CTR 7 teacher. I was recently told that the CTR 7 class was divided into two groups, the controllable and the uncontrollable (not a quote but basic idea of the divisions). I was given the uncontrollable class. When my portion of the class was in CTR 6 the class went through about 7 teachers last year. All were released because of the kids. The primary president has been very attentive and worried about how my teaching is going. She wants to make sure I am doing okay in the class. All that information aside...I LOVE my class. They are very bright and knowledgable kids. My class list has about ten kids on it but I have only seen 4. Only two come regularly and the others have been hit or miss. As I have prepared for these lessons I have understood some things. First, I don't know how prepared the other teachers have been because these kids are involved and have fabulous questions. Maybe part of the problem is the questions have intimidated the teachers? Second, maybe my time at the day care has helped me to understand personalities and learning disabilities. And third I am really enjoy every aspect of teaching except for the part where the primary room needs work. When they get the microphone to work we also get a radio station coming through the speakers so it can be very distracting. And the room stinks. Maybe that's just a me problem.
And last but not least. I am nervous to put this out there but I am feeling better about everything so here goes. On Monday I have a doctor's appointment (what a busy Monday!). On Monday I will be eight weeks pregnant. There I said it. Now I can accept it. I have been very wary of this pregnancy. I am one of the lucky few who know almost immediately that I am pregnant. This time we found out at about four weeks. I get horribly sick and so we are able to figure out the changes my body is involved in. With my last (lost) pregnancy we found out at 3.5 weeks and had a miscarriage at 6 weeks 4 days. I was nervous and cautious about these dates. I all but put myself of bed rest. I still did stuff, but most of the time I let things slide and wait until later. I hope I don't have to shoot myself again in the foot. But I am feeling pretty sick and pregnant so I am taking it as a good sign. I know, I am weird and never thought myself a superstitious person but I am apparently.
So there you have it. My reasons for not blogging...secrets, stress and lack of desire to blog. Hopefully now we can move forward.
Some of our updates. As I type Brian is on an airplane flying home to me. He has been gone about 25 hours and in 4 more hours I get to see him again. I can't believe how much I miss him right now. Maybe its because I know he is on a plane and not at work. Maybe its because I haven't felt well lately and Brian always makes me feel better. That being said...Brian flew to Virginia to interview for a position with Juniper Systems (his parent company) to work with/for AT&T labs. This job would be ideal for Brian. All hands on, tinkering with computer equipment trying to find out problems and stuff. Why is Brian looking for a new job? Well he does have a job, but there are pretty strong rumors that have frightened his collegues and friends to find other positions before his queue gets completely outsourced to India. That's right Brian is being outsourced. I find this funny just because I always thought it was a joke and not a reality. Remember in Office Space when they talked about it? I laughed too. But the outsourcing scare must be legit because in the last three weeks about five or six of Brian's collegues have flown the coup and found other stable employment elsewhere. Why did he fly to Virginia for an interview? Are there not positions around here? There are positions around here but there are plenty of unemployed network engineers looking at them too. Why did we decide to look out of state for employment opportunities? Outside of Utah there are plenty of job opportunities. Brian and I are excited for a new adventure in our lives. I enjoy Utah, family, my home, my friends, etc. But why not take the leap and get out of dodge? Oh that's right the other big deciding factor. Jobs in Utah are basically in the $40,000-60,000 salary range. Out of state they range from $50,000 to 150,000. We have done our research and we are aware of cost of living increases but seriously that is a lot of cash. The job he just interviewed for was asking between $85,000-110,000 starting with awesome benefits and bonus potential (up to 14% of his yearly wage). !!!! So lets pretend for a moment shall we. Great. If Brian gets this position and they offer him $85,000 it is the equivalent of making $65,000 here in Utah. Both are raises and both we can live with. Plus I am a history major and I enjoy vacationing back East (mainly the DC area) and now I can be there to see all the things that I still haven't been able to visit. And trust me that list is HUGE!
In other news my Aidan turns 3 on Monday. 3, my baby is 3! Good grief where has the time gone! We plan to have an Iron Man themed birthday and for Aidan it is going to rock! I will post pictures and blog about that later this week.
Brian and I were recently given callings in our ward. Brian is the Ward Employment Specialist and I am the CTR 7 teacher. I was recently told that the CTR 7 class was divided into two groups, the controllable and the uncontrollable (not a quote but basic idea of the divisions). I was given the uncontrollable class. When my portion of the class was in CTR 6 the class went through about 7 teachers last year. All were released because of the kids. The primary president has been very attentive and worried about how my teaching is going. She wants to make sure I am doing okay in the class. All that information aside...I LOVE my class. They are very bright and knowledgable kids. My class list has about ten kids on it but I have only seen 4. Only two come regularly and the others have been hit or miss. As I have prepared for these lessons I have understood some things. First, I don't know how prepared the other teachers have been because these kids are involved and have fabulous questions. Maybe part of the problem is the questions have intimidated the teachers? Second, maybe my time at the day care has helped me to understand personalities and learning disabilities. And third I am really enjoy every aspect of teaching except for the part where the primary room needs work. When they get the microphone to work we also get a radio station coming through the speakers so it can be very distracting. And the room stinks. Maybe that's just a me problem.
And last but not least. I am nervous to put this out there but I am feeling better about everything so here goes. On Monday I have a doctor's appointment (what a busy Monday!). On Monday I will be eight weeks pregnant. There I said it. Now I can accept it. I have been very wary of this pregnancy. I am one of the lucky few who know almost immediately that I am pregnant. This time we found out at about four weeks. I get horribly sick and so we are able to figure out the changes my body is involved in. With my last (lost) pregnancy we found out at 3.5 weeks and had a miscarriage at 6 weeks 4 days. I was nervous and cautious about these dates. I all but put myself of bed rest. I still did stuff, but most of the time I let things slide and wait until later. I hope I don't have to shoot myself again in the foot. But I am feeling pretty sick and pregnant so I am taking it as a good sign. I know, I am weird and never thought myself a superstitious person but I am apparently.
So there you have it. My reasons for not blogging...secrets, stress and lack of desire to blog. Hopefully now we can move forward.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
2011 Resolutions
Here's to another year of trying to improve myself.
MOM GOALS
-baby #2 (or 3 depending on how you look at it)
-get Aidan into a preschool type environment
-complete the potty training process
-teach Aidan ABC's and 123's(in the correct order as observed by everyone besides Aidan)
-more play dates (he loves him friends)
WIFE GOALS
-be supportive of Brian's career and the things necessary to grow in it
-motivate and help keep a happy husband thriving
-help eliminate our silly debt (silly meaning all debt)
-be an equal partner in everything possible
PERSONAL GOALS
-work on my health
-sewing/quilting classes
-ETSY shop to sell my hobby/crafts
-work on forgiveness, compassion, understanding, and finding happiness everyday in everything
-make 5 blankets to donate
-learn to knit or crochet
-more charitable
-garden
-bodega stocked all year long
-do lots of canning and bottling
WANTS
-mini van
-new toilet
-Brian a laptop
-new kitchen table and chairs
TRAVEL
-St. George *3
-Redfish
-camping
-vacation elsewhere
-over night excursion sans the child(ren)
MOM GOALS
-baby #2 (or 3 depending on how you look at it)
-get Aidan into a preschool type environment
-complete the potty training process
-teach Aidan ABC's and 123's(in the correct order as observed by everyone besides Aidan)
-more play dates (he loves him friends)
WIFE GOALS
-be supportive of Brian's career and the things necessary to grow in it
-motivate and help keep a happy husband thriving
-help eliminate our silly debt (silly meaning all debt)
-be an equal partner in everything possible
PERSONAL GOALS
-work on my health
-sewing/quilting classes
-ETSY shop to sell my hobby/crafts
-work on forgiveness, compassion, understanding, and finding happiness everyday in everything
-make 5 blankets to donate
-learn to knit or crochet
-more charitable
-garden
-bodega stocked all year long
-do lots of canning and bottling
WANTS
-mini van
-new toilet
-Brian a laptop
-new kitchen table and chairs
TRAVEL
-St. George *3
-Redfish
-camping
-vacation elsewhere
-over night excursion sans the child(ren)
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