Life.Love.Linds

Sisters

2012-01-29T14:03:00.000-08:00

Here some more pics of Keira and Katelyn wearing the same outfit. Keira was just over 8 months in her pictures and Katelyn had just turned 9 months in her pics.

Keira's Big Swing

2011-11-14T07:10:00.001-08:00

Kyle built Keira a swing this weekend and it is pretty awesome! Let's just hope Keira doesn't let go....

Just for fun

2011-10-20T22:02:00.000-07:00

I took a picture of Keira in her rocking chair at 5 months old and decided to take one of Katelyn in the same outfit, also at 5 months.. you can see the differences in them really well I think. Katelyn's didn't come out so well, so I took another one a few days later, but in a different outfit that time.

Keira's 2nd Birthday

2011-10-20T21:56:00.000-07:00

Keira turned 2 Oct 9th! Here are a few pictures from her 2nd birthday weekend. Friday night we had a little party at our house, we were debating whether or not to do this since she has been a little, shall I say, anti-social these days in large groups. But, we thought she would enjoy a small party and she did. Saturday we went to the Zoo (her first time), her and Katelyn both really enjoyed that. Sunday we went to the pumpkin patch. It was a fun weekend to celebrate our lovely Keira!

Our New House

2011-09-08T12:47:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures (before and after) of our new home. We were lucky to get this house ,and we love it!! It's crazy how things can happen and change soo fast. Originally we thought we would wait until after Katelyn was born to start looking seriously for a home. But, of course, during one of our "non-serious" home visits, we fell in love and had to have it. I was probably 7 or 8 months pregnant at this point. Thankfully Lynn (Kyle's mom) was our Realtor and she worked SOOOOOO hard to make this house happen for us. Instead of waiting until Katelyn was born to look for a house, we literally started Escrow the day she was born. Seriously, the day... no the hour after I had Katelyn, we were on the phone with the Broker getting all kinds of stuff taken care of. It was pretty funny!! Good thing Katelyn came quick, cause we were busy!! hahaha!

The back yard, in the snow (Before we owned it).... hard to imagine this kind of weather after a long Summer!!

Here we are on our first night owning the house! Cheers!

Keira getting acquainted with the house.

Katelyn getting acquainted to her new spot for the next few weeks while we worked on the house.

And of course, a jump in the freezing pool to celebrate!

Brrrrrrrrrrr!

The Kitchen, before tearing down wall paper and painting.

More red Kitchen

In the living room looking toward Kitchen

Looking at living room from the stairs.. nice and white!

Hall bathroom, you'll see some wall paper trends!

This is also the Hall bath, we found some nice artwork after pulling off the wallpaper.

Keira's room

Katelyn's room

Guest room, purple wall and purple carpet

Front view, this hasn't changed

View of the back.. also hasn't really changed. We want to paint the trim white at some point.

family helping

Celebrating my birthday with family, scrubbing walls and cupcakes!

Jon and Katelyn resting on their blankies :) Jon didn't realize it, but that is actually his baby blanket, (lovely Cow Jumped Over The Moon theme) that my mom brought up with their drop cloths I guess!! hahaha You can see the old carpet here.... stained, bleached, and torn, it was a mess!

Freshly painted walls and new carpet, ahhhhh

working on the girls' rooms

Living room... if only it always looked so clean :)

new washer and dryer!! I love them!

Katelyn's room

newly painted dining room

New dining table to seat all those that come to visit :)

Newly painted kitchen

Our bedroom, our sanctuary, if only we had time to enjoy it!!

Little balcony in our room over the front of the house

We also have a guest room and bath (not pictured since it is a super mess :), so please come visit!!! We seriously would love to have friends and family stay with us anytime!

Baby Kay Kay

2011-05-26T15:17:00.000-07:00

Gigantic me a few days before

I know everyone already knows about the arrival of the newest little Lind, but I just have to post about it anyhow. And, it is always fun to record the birth story and look back on it later. (Kay Kay is what we've taught Keira to call her, since that is easier.)

Katelyn Elise Lind was born on April 18th, 2011 at 12:22pm. Labor with her was a lot different than it was with Keira. Keira's hit pretty fast and hard, while this time I kept wondering if I was even really in labor up until the last hour or 2.

Here's the story:

At week 36 the doctor said I was 1cm and 30%. I was happy to hear this since I had been feeling soooo uncomfortable with this pregnancy and was really hoping for her to come early. The last couple months I had Braxton Hicks contractions anytime I went on a walk or exerted myself.

At almost 37 weeks I was now 2cm and 75% effaced, but Katelyn was going to wait another week and a half to arrive. I had a few nights where I woke with contractions but they always went away, sadly. Then on Monday, April 18th early early.. 12am, the same thing happened where I started to get contractions. I got up and got the heating pad like I had on other nights and tried to go to sleep. Unfortunately, I don't think I fell back to sleep until 4am, and woke sometime after 6am and figured I wasn't in labor, and went back to sleep again. I sort of woke up when Kyle got up for work but didn't feel the need to tell him about my contractions since I thought they had gone away... so I drifted back to sleep again until Keira woke me up, probably close to 7:00am. I got up and had a normal morning, but then realized the contractions were still there. I decided to call Kyle at work and just let him know that maybe I was in labor, but just to keep his phone nearby in case. I timed my contractions and they were a couple minutes apart, but didn't seem strong. I decided to have Lynn (Kyle's mom) come over so she could help with Keira in case things picked up. Kyle had planned to come home at 11 and take the rest of the day off anyways, so I figured that would be fine. But I finally decided to call him and have him come home early since the contractions were getting a little stronger. I think he got home at 10:45. I really wanted to get to the hospital early this time around so that it wouldn't be as stressful and so that I could get the 4 hours of antibiotics that I was supposed to have before the baby was born. I am not sure when I realized I was actually in labor, but probably about the time Kyle got home. (My water had not broken, so I still felt unsure of it all). We get to the hospital and thankfully I basically walked right in and to a bed. The nurse asked if I was here to "see if I was in labor" and we said "yes". Well, lo and behold at 11:17am I was 8cm and fully effaced. Oh!! The nurse said I would be having the baby very soon and that she better call the doctor. For some reason the contractions were a lot more bearable this time. Even when I got to the point of being fully dilated and ready to go I did not feel like I needed pain meds, which was great. Don't get me wrong, they were still painful, but bearable. The delivery doctor mosied on in about the time I was feeling urges to push. (He was not my doctor, mine was off work that day). This doctor is actually quite infamous around these parts, so I was a bit worried about him. But, all in all he was a pretty nice man. My main complaints are that he seemed to be really taking his time getting things ready for the delivery. He made small talked, joked around.. all this while I was 10cm and ready to push! My water still had not broken, so he broke it. That was pretty crazy, and even surprised the doctor. It was a huge pop and water gushed out. I pushed through 5 or 6 contractions and she was here (12:22pm)!! I have to say though, that the actual delivery was insanely painful.... I don't know if anything in the world could ever hurt that bad! I guess that made up for the contractions being not so bad! So I am very glad we went to the hospital when

we did!

First Glances

That was tiring!

Happy Dada and baby

Katelyn's Baby Shower

2011-04-04T15:15:00.000-07:00

Kyle and I were so blessed by Katelyn's baby shower. Organized and orchestrated by Nana (Kyle's mom). It was so cute and fun. You can tell from the pictures that it was co-ed!! I loved it! We kept it casual... ping-pong, ate lots of food and hung out.

Diaper Carriage Centerpiece that my mom made... sooo creative!

Lots of cute decor!! I love baby girl clothes!

Keira especially loved the piles of balloons.

Love the Poopy diaper game...

... especially when the guys play too!! Sorry you didn't win Uncle Jim!

I think my dad got a little tired during the gift opening :)

Uncle Jon. Thanks for coming bro!

New stomping grounds

2011-04-04T15:05:00.000-07:00

Bridgeport, at the Yuba River

Kyle loves to teach Keira how to do things like throw rocks in the river :)

Keira & Papa climbing rocks

I love dirt!

SNOW!

2011-04-04T15:01:00.000-07:00

Here we are enjoying the snow at our new home. I think this was the 2nd snow storm we experienced.

Lots of snow!

Keira loves to eat snow!

Valentine's Day

2011-04-04T14:58:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite pictures of Keira. Showing her exuberant personality!!

The move

2011-04-04T14:57:00.000-07:00

I thought I should catch up on some blogging, though most people know what's been going on in our lives!! Here is my (Jen's) dad helping load up the huge moving van so we could make our big life change!! On January 21st we moved from Mountain View, CA to Grass Valley, CA. We had a rental awaiting us, that thankfully, Lynn (Kyle's mom) found for us since we did not have a chance to go up there before the move. The reason for the move??? We never felt the Bay Area would be our final spot. It is just too crowded and homes are way too expensive. We felt we would be happier raising our family in an area that was a little more family oriented, affordable, and had lots of free outdoor activities that we like. The 2 places that fit these profiles were San Luis Obispo area and Grass Valley area (where Kyle went to Middle & High School). Jobs are slim these days so we didn't know how things would work out. We had given up on SLO since there weren't any jobs and began to focus our efforts on Grass Valley since Kyle's parents & sister recently moved back there. We like how there are some many lakes, rives spots and trails to explore. Also, snow in the Winter, though this Winter has had even more than usual. So, basically, lots of fun outdoor things for our growing family to do. Also, much much more affordable!!!! Grass Valley here we come!

23 weeks

2011-01-11T21:11:00.000-08:00

Here's the baby bump at 23 weeks. We found out we are having another girl which is very exciting, and should be fun! We are also moving to Grass Valley next week!!! Lots of chenges, but we feel that God finally opened the door for us to move to a more affordable are and to a place we think will be great to raise our family. Kyle's parents and sister are there, and we are sceaming to get Jen's family there too!!!!

Christmas cards

2010-12-08T20:09:00.000-08:00

So, I have already received a few Christmas cards in the mail!! You people are on top of it... while I am still trying to find that perfect card. I have loved the personalized cards that some have sent from Shutterfly!! They have a gazillion cards to choose from that are so cute and stylish! I think I will have to go with them! Here are some examples:

They even have personalized gifts like ornaments, photo books, you name it.

Isn't this a cute idea! (Imagine Keira's little face :)

We were able to take a bunch of family photos, and some just of Keira, so we need to sort through them to pick one or two. But, it is just such a fun time of year and so great to hear from everyone at Christmas. If you have not done a card yet, you should check out shutterfly.com. They even have a deal right now for bloggers to post a promotion about them and get 50 free cards! Such a deal.

As soon as I design my perfect card with that perfect picture, Shutterfly will work their magic and we will get those cards out in time for Christmas!!! Thanks Shutterfly!

Belly shots

2010-12-01T09:50:00.000-08:00

I finally got around to documenting my baby bump! It seems to be bigger then last time.. but, of course I felt SOOO big last time too :) That's just how I am :)

18 1/2 weeks

Kyle at 18 1/2 weeks too :)

Halloween Fun

2010-11-01T19:01:00.000-07:00

This was Keira's 2nd Halloween, but first time Trick or Treating... she had So much fun! We went to Nevada City for some primo trick or treating downtown and it was fun to be surrounded by so many cute kids. Keira went door to door like a pro!

Here is a picture from Keira's first Halloween just to reminisce.....

And, this year:

Daddys Home

2010-10-25T20:21:00.000-07:00

Daddy came home from China and had a day off to recoop. We had pancakes and bacon compliments of Mommy to help Daddy's tummy remember what american food is like and then went for a walk at the park. I walked SOOO fast and only landed face first in a pile of squirrel dirt once! Good times...

Keira turns 1

2010-10-14T15:56:00.000-07:00

Keira turns 1

2010-10-14T15:55:00.000-07:00

Keira turns 1

2010-10-14T15:17:00.001-07:00

Saturday, October 9, 2010, our little babe turned 1. She's not so little anymore! In fact, she's been walking for 3 months, loves to climb and play hide 'n seek. She brings me her shoes when she wants to go outside (or she just wines at the front door ;). She can point out a dog or a bird in her books. She can throw and kick balls, brush her teeth (she has 3 whole teeth, so that's hard work;)!! She prefers to feed herself and eat "grown-up" food. She can even feed herself with a spoon... but... mommy doesn't like that very much because it is super messy!! She is even in the 93rd percentile for height! She continues to amaze us everyday day with how smart & fun she is (oh, and did I forget to mention "Strong Willed!"). She is even going to be a big sister by the end of April!!! Yep.. it's true. So, as you can see, our little baby is growing and so is our family! We feel so blessed & privilaged to raise her and are excited for the next little bundle.

Here are some pictures from the fun day:

The Kitchen!

2010-09-12T10:45:00.000-07:00

Yea, it took 3 months, but whose counting??? We are happy to have the kitchen completed (we are still waiting for the owner to bring us our new range hood...). Though I may miss having our stove on wheels (not), or the dishwasher out of commision (not), or ply wood as a counter (not).. I am SUPER happy for our new polished kitchen.

Some Kitchen Progress

2010-07-25T20:16:00.000-07:00

We got cookin' on the kitchen cabinets this weekend. They are pretty much done being painted... though we still have to do the cabinet doors. It is fun to see them all nice and white, though... I think it gives us the motivation we need to "keep on keepin on"!

bye bye kitchen

2010-07-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

This is what happened to our kitchen a coulpe weeks ago when we decided to do a makeover :).. Hopefully, we will complete it quickly!

Here are the before pictures:

Walkie-Walkie

2010-07-05T20:59:00.000-07:00

Today became a super fun day when Keira decided to share her skills with us AND the camera. She WALKED and did it pretty well. Now she likes to let go at random times to see how far she can get. It should not be long before Keira is cruzin and I am sure she will be CRAZY!

Hand made aprons

2010-06-17T15:50:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple more of my "crafty" projects. I made them for Lori and Kristal's birthdays. They turned out cute!

See Keira Crawl

2010-05-26T12:35:00.000-07:00

Gettin' Crafty

2010-05-25T10:35:00.000-07:00

Here are some recent projects I have been working on. I made a crib rail guard to protect the wood when Keira gets old enough to stand on gnaw on things!!

Also, I made some hair clips for Keira. Her hair is so long that it falls in her eyes!! These help tame it a little, and they're cute too! I have a few more things in the works, so I will post them when they are done!!

See Keira Chew

2010-05-12T21:48:00.000-07:00

Keira has been mastering the art of eating, which is one of her favorite things to do! We have been giving her little bits of a rice puff baby food and she is now learning how to chew it up!!

She has also been working pretty hard on scooting or lunging but is still making baby steps.

The beginnings of Summer.. I hope!

2010-05-02T21:00:00.000-07:00

Today was the first HOT day... and I REALLY hope we are done with all the rain and cold weather!! We pulled out the tide pool and Keira got to put on her super cute bathing suit!! The water was pretty cold, but Keira was so into the water and all the fun colors and shapes in the pool that she didn't mind one bit. Next time we will have to either get warm water from inside or let the sun heat it up before we jump in. I can't wait for more days spent out doors!

Springtime FUN!

2010-04-13T22:11:00.000-07:00

Keira is sprouting like asparagus these days and loving (almost) every minute of it. At least those are the only pictures that we post. I never feel the urge to pull the camera when she is rattling my ear drums and spouting tears. Jen and I are enjoying her so much and just wanted to send another glimpse. She is now 16lbs and 26 3/4" tall with a good bill of health. She just started the difficult process of trying to sleep through the night and is able to step/wobble forward and back while holding our hands. She tries to crawl but only rocks back and forth followed by a tornado of rolls that actually get her pretty far, pretty fast....yikes. Yup, thats it for now...

Our garden is sprouting for spring!!

2010-03-27T22:01:00.000-07:00

Keira is very excited about all of the time she has and will have playing on the grass while mommy and daddy work in the dirt. Our backyard is taking shape and we are having lots of fun in the process. All we need to cap it off is a good BBQ.....

22 weeks old, Growing so much!

2010-03-17T10:19:00.000-07:00

Sittin' Pretty... well she can't sit on her own yet, but she's getting close.

She looks like she is getting ready to crawl. For now she scoots along on her forehead and on her tippy-toes. We like to call it her "downward facing dog" move.

Ready To Roll

2010-03-11T10:02:00.000-08:00

We picked up a couple toys for Keira... I don't think she's quite ready for them, but she's intrigued!

Ready for Summer

2010-03-03T13:55:00.001-08:00

I am desperate for some warmth and sunshine, so I thought if I bought Keira a swim suit the sun might come out. Nope. Still rainy and cloudy :(. But, in the case of a hot day, Keira is ready and waiting. We even got her a little tide pool.

Keira's first meal

2010-03-03T13:50:00.000-08:00

Keira had her first meal at 20 weeks old. I thought I would wait until she was 6 months old to start "solids", but she really seemed ready.

Day 1: Keira is a little gun shy, but still enjoying her rice cereal.

Day 2: Seems like she got the hang of it real quick!

Favorites from Keira's 3rd month

2010-01-30T11:43:00.000-08:00

2010-01-30T11:36:00.000-08:00

BED HEAD.. Keira obviously takes after Kyle!

Skyping with the Grandparents.

2010-01-15T15:52:00.001-08:00

Keira's 3rd month

2010-01-15T15:44:00.000-08:00

Triplets

2010-01-15T14:01:00.000-08:00

A friend of ours bought her daughter, Keira and Rees matching Christmas PJ's and we all got together... aren't they cute. Keira had fun "playing" with Kiya and Rees!!

Jumperoo Fun

2009-12-16T21:19:00.001-08:00

Keira at 9 weeks

2009-12-16T16:11:00.000-08:00

More cute pictures.
Daddy's girl...

Fun mornin'

So good at "Tummy Time" now...

Keira is changing so much every day! Wow. She is super smiley and now has some very favorite new friends. The top one this week has to be the blue jungle frog on the jumperoo. She will stare at him with googly eyes for a half hour straight!!!!!!!!! Seriously, she is in love!!

She loves the jumperoo in general. She bounces herself and it makes fun music. It is a guaranteed good time. Thanks Aunt Rosette, Uncle Dave and cousin Erik!

She has started sleeping more at night. 7 hours and 45 min is her record so far. Mommy and daddy are crossing their fingers and hoping for more of that.

She also talks a bunch. She gets especially vocal when dada comes home and has fun cooing with her.

Keira's First hair-do

2009-12-16T16:04:00.000-08:00

Thanks Kayla for the cute baby rubber band and helping me style Keira's hair. She's 9 weeks now and her hair is growin' fast!

Having Fun With Keira

2009-12-06T14:33:00.000-08:00

Changing FAST

2009-11-23T21:17:00.000-08:00

Mostly this post is a picture update bt I can also say that Keira's personality is changing fast and her hair looks great when blown dry on a cold morning. She also likes it when daddy PRETENDS to feed her real food and when she gets to hang out with her sleepy friend Rees Hansen. She is doing great!

What's New With Keira

2009-11-17T14:27:00.000-08:00

Grandma Darlene asked what was new with Keira, so I decided to write an update about her and what all she has been doing.

If she is in a good mood and we try really hard, we can make her smile (I think). She smiles a lot for no reason too! Also, she will look at toys. She likes one on the floor mat that lights up and plays music. By "likes", I mean that she will stare at it. She will also track objects if she is really focused on it and we move it around. She pretty much likes lights in general. She will arch her back, or do whatever it takes to stare at lamps, or anything that is lit up, including the tv... which I try not to let her see since I have heard it is bad for them.

She will listen when I read a book. I think she likes the sound of my voice talking in a normal tone and the continuous speaking. She likes the swing. Sometimes it makes her fall asleep, but sometimes she just stares off to the side to see objects flying by. I guess it just depends on whether or not she is tired. She likes the floor mat if she is in a good mood, and she likes tummy time if she is happy. Tummy time will usually wear her down... all that face planting is no fun after a while. If she is really tired and we put her on her tummy, sometimes she will just put her head to the side and sleep.

She will always fall asleep in the car and the stroller... but will get fussy if it is time to eat.

At night she will usually sleep for 4 hours from around 11pm until 3am. Though, she cries when we put her down, so, we have to keep going back in her room and comforting her for about 30 minutes, sometimes longer. She will sleep another 2 to 3.5 hours for the second half of the night. After that she usually wants to be awake for 1.5 hours, then will nap for and hour or 2. Last night was the first "bad" night. She only slept from 12 to 2:45. Then ate, and went back to bed (after crying) at around 3:45. Woke up at 4:45 crying, and then again at 5:45... then it was time to eat. So, I was pretty tired. But she slept again for a couple hours from 7:30 to 9:30 and so did I!!

We have been able to get out of the house a bit. Usually we take walks to the park or downtown, or to Marshalls to shop :) (Keira loves shopping, so I have to take her.) We like going to Target and to the Mall also. She is very fun, and I really enjoy being home with my little buddy all day. But, we are always very excited when daddy comes home from work!!!

Keira's first day at the beach

2009-11-03T19:13:00.000-08:00

Week 3

2009-10-29T12:50:00.000-07:00

Since Dad decided to stay home for the 3rd week the pictures are still flowing fairly well. In this first pic Keira is sporting a Kristal Thomas bathing towel after her first real bath. Her umbilical cord did fall off and her B-Button is equally cute...

Keira and Mommy getting their beauty rest...

Keira looking beautiful with her Jennifer Lind flower-explosion headband.....

Daddy strapped down with the all weather Baby-Bjorn carrier, ready for a walk.

Keira's first hike / picnic

2009-10-22T18:48:00.000-07:00

At 14 days old Keira May Lind defeated the Stevens Creek reservoir trail with ease. Her low pressure terrain handling system flew over all boulders (pebbles) and fallen trees (twigs). She had a turkey sandwich (thru Jen) while observing her studly father hit rocks with a board......yeah......into the water. Mom was scared but it was still REALLY fun!

Cuteness....

2009-10-22T18:41:00.000-07:00

Friends and Family Weekend

2009-10-22T18:29:00.000-07:00

We had a good time with family, friends and dogs last weekend. Thank you everyone for all of the support and good looking pictures! We have now been released into the wild, on our own, with our young bundle of joy. New adventures are ahead!!

Keira's first videos

2009-10-19T16:52:00.000-07:00

The many faces of Keira

2009-10-14T23:01:00.000-07:00

What a Beauty!!!

2009-10-13T20:25:00.002-07:00

Keira In The Hospital

2009-10-13T20:25:00.001-07:00

Our Baby Story

2009-10-13T15:35:00.000-07:00

Keira May Lind, October 9th, 2009. 7lb, 4oz. 21 inches long.

Many of you may have already heard "the story", but I thought it would be fun to share anyhow. Thursday evening, Oct 8th, was typical. Kyle and I went to bible study, joked with everyone about how we would have the baby that night, etc, etc. We had been hoping for the big event to begin every night for the last week or so. Everyday I felt closer and closer to popping.. belly getting more and more uncomfortable, but, it seemed like the day would never come. At 1:45 am on Thursday (Oct 9th), I woke up for my usual bathroom run and got back in bed. My lower back felt a little crampy... not unusual. I lay down there and the cramps got worse. I got up again, around 2am. The sequence of events gets a little blurry, but I kept walking around, then laying down and back and forth, but the cramps/contractions seemed to worsen with each one. Now it was in my abdomen as well. Probably at about 2am I called out to Kyle,"I think my water may have broken". Though, I wasn't positive. Finally, I tell Kyle, that I think things are happening. He stayed in bed for a while, thinking it was just false labor. I got out my books on labor and started reading and reading to see if i could figure out what was going on. Kyle said I should time the contractions. I did, but they were only 1 minute and 50 seconds apart... Kyle and I both felt like that just couldn't be right. But, I couldn't deny it anymore as they became more and more intense and painful. I stumbled around the house throwing last minute stuff by the front door (to take to the hospital). I remember saying a few times that we should go.. but Kyle got on the computer instead to read about labor. He said I should call in and ask the doctor what she thought. I called in and had them page my doctor. At the same time I said, more urgently.. ok lets go and I headed out to the car (but Kyle wanted to change into jeans first).. silly boy. In the car is when I think Kyle realized this might be the real thing. Though, he was only driving 65 MPH, and we had a 30 minute drive to make to Saint Rose Hospital. A couple minutes into the ride the doctor called, I told her about my contractions.. she said groggly.. "you are on your way to the hospital right???" Thank goodness we were. I kept having to remind kyle to drive faster... I didn't know if I would survive! We can't remember exactly what time we got to the hospital. I don't think it could have been any early than 3 or 3:30am. We had to go through ER. They actually made me sit and sign papers as I kept practically falling over in pain. I think they all underestimated me, since it was my first baby. Finally, a transporter gets me in the wheelchair, but first bangs the arm of the chair into the door jam before getting me out towards the elevator. I really thought I would never make it to the 2nd floor. Finally, we get there. Again they ask me to sign things, get out my insurance card,etc. HELLLLLLOOOOOOO PEOPLE!!!!!!!!! I AM IN LABOR!!!!!!!!!!!!!! No, I didn't say that, but I think my demeanor showed it. I was practically falling over, and killing Kyle's wrist with each death grip.

The nurse finally got me on the bed and when she realized I was at 9cm people started to take me seriously. She ran out to the hallway and called for help. The doctor was on her way. I heard them talking about pain meds and I thought.. PLEASE GIVE THEM!!!!!!!! They frantically hooked up an IV, fetal monitor and blood pressure cuff.. and had me sign even more as my body contorted in pain with each contraction. Finally the nurse said I can push. Apparently, I was on the bed about 30 minutes before I was allowed to push. Looking back, it all went by quick, but in the moment it seemed like an eternity. They asked if I wanted an epidural. I think I said yes, but can't really remember. All I knew is that if this was going to last for another 24 hours like all my first time moms had prepped me for, I WOULD NOT LAST! I really did want the pain relief at that point. Well, there didn't end up being time for any of that. The doctor got there and I pushed for 30 minutes before our little miracle arrived at 4:44am (about 2hours and 45 min after the onset of "cramping"). The whole time I was pushing, I didn't believe anyone when they said I was doing a great job, etc, etc. I just knew it would take 3 more hours to get her out. Again, that is what my first time mom friends tended to experience. So, when she was born so quick it was a little shocking. I couldn't believe it!! So, that's our story.. quick and painful.

Keira has been so amazing! We are completely in love with her (as is everyone who meets her of course :). She is just such a cutie. She, so far (as of day 5), sleeps good, eats good, poos good and all that :). She rarely crys, and she offers lots of cute little smiles. We have been spoiled with all the help from family, so Kyle and I are doing really good as well.

Count Down

2009-09-29T16:38:00.000-07:00

Today's doctor's appointment ended up being quite surprising for us. We went in expecting the usual, uneventful meeting. And left feeling like the baby could come at any moment. Well, because that is what the doctor said!!! Crazy! I still have about 2 1/2 weeks until my due date, though I have felt like she could come early. Kyle had a weekend trip planned for river rafting with the boys, I am still working on packing my hospital bag, and have been slowly plowing away at my "to-do before baby arrives" list. BUT, now the doc says I am over 2cm and 60% effaced. YIKES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now I feel super excited, overwhelmed and stressed all at the same time. As I write, Kyle is out installing the car seat, and I am thinking about all the things I should be doing, and will do tomorrow. Needless to say, Kyle won't be going on that rafting trip. Pray for us!!
Here is a dramatic picture of the transformation: The "skinny" one is at about 13 weeks, the "large" one is now, at almost 38 weeks.

Keira's Room

2009-09-21T21:48:00.000-07:00

We have just about put the final touches on Keira's room! Lots of pink and brown!!

Capitola, 3.5 weeks to go

2009-09-21T10:57:00.000-07:00

To escape the heat, we went out to Capitola Saturday afternoon! It was beautiful, and the fog didn't roll in until we were finishing dinner. Amazingly, my stomach keeps getting bigger, and bigger. Who knew it could stretch that much :). We are VERY excited for Keira May to arrive!!!! I just started maternity leave this week, so now I can finish the last minute stuff, and feel prepared (if that is possible). We are trying to take the advice of everyone and "enjoy" each other and this short time left before the rest of our lives change. But, we also just really want her to come soon!!

Kyle's such a STUD

2009-09-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

Being a good wife, I went out to the hills in Pacifica, with the camera slung around my neck to watched Kyle, James & Andy "jump" their mountain bikes over these scary "gaps". (Sorry, I don't know the real lingo!) I took a ton of pictures, and only had to see Kyle go over the handle bars once.. thank goodness. Here are some stud-ly shots :)

Baby Shower!!

2009-09-21T10:10:00.001-07:00

Thanks to my good ol'college friends (Kristal, Katie, April & Charity) for the awesome baby shower. It was great to see family and friends! I can't believe I am joining Kristal & Katie in motherhood!!! They will be great resources for me!!!!

Got Health???

2009-08-23T19:02:00.000-07:00

Kyle and I just got done listening to an inspiring book on CD about eating healthier. We recommend it to everyone!! It is Michael Pollan's In Defense of Food. He does a really good job of convicting the reader to get back to the basics with food... meaning choose "real" foods that are not processed and full of unpronouncable ingredients. We don't need to be on some special diet, count calories, worry about what to do. Just eat real foods, that your great grandparents would recognize as food. (Unless your great-grandma was like mine and had a fridge full of Twinkies:) I still think that limiting the animal fats is a good idea. Even though butter is a real food, I wouldn't go crazy on it. But, go crazy on fruits, veggies, nuts, beans, real dairy products, leaner meats etc (in moderation of course). If we cut out the "junk" that we eat SOOOO much of we could really cut back on all the health issues that use Americans deal with (Heart Disease & Diabetes being the biggest ones). It is a good 6 hour investment if you can get the CD's. Michael Pollan has another book that I have heard is good entitled: The Omnivore's Dilemma. (I am still waiting for that one to come back in at the library.)

32 weeks and countin'

2009-08-16T22:48:00.001-07:00

Garden

2009-08-03T10:10:00.000-07:00

I love to go out to the garden everyday after work, and sit in the sun (it is super hot in our backyard). Things are finally starting to grow good!!!

Ventura Beach Day

2009-08-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome day at the beach with family (July 18th), the whole Vanlandingham clan was there (almost)!!!

Watermelon?

2009-08-03T09:37:00.000-07:00

Apparently I look like a watermelon now. I do see some resemblance. :(. Thanks dad!

We FINISHED the crib!!!!

2009-07-08T19:05:00.000-07:00

We are so glad to have finished re-staining the crib and it looks pretty good to boot. With sanding each slat and curve followed by stain and sealer, too much could have gone wrong. We pushed through and got a good crib with the color "we" (Jen) wanted!! Thanks to grandma and grandpa Vanlandingham for the BEAUTIFUL bedding! Now we just need a baby I guess.....but it is fun to just stand in the nursery and know what is to come. Sorry, no more guest room : (

Babymoon in Tahoe

2009-06-30T22:05:00.000-07:00

Jen and I are fortunate to have this week off work with a great place to stay at Lake Tahoe (thanks Deedee). It is always a beautiful and relaxing time up here with cold turquoise water, snowy peaks, bike trails, rain showers and 80 degree weather all mixed into one. Jen is looking UBER cute these days with her new bikini-baby bump look. All is well with us and we wish you all a happy 4th!! God bless.

24 Weeks

2009-06-25T22:11:00.000-07:00

Jen has been brewing up a cutie for 24 weeks now and I wanted to post a picture so that everyone can still recognize her on the streets. FYI....

Jen is PREGNANT

2009-06-11T22:20:00.000-07:00

Here is more proof in case you doubted it........ ( just a cute pic of the baby bump )

We started the nursery!

2009-06-11T22:13:00.000-07:00

We made a little progress with the nursery, getting some decorations together and hanging a few things on the wall. It is exciting to feel like our little girl might actually be real someday. Pink and brown with a little green, all the way!

New Camera!!

2009-06-01T22:35:00.001-07:00

I (kyle) REALLLLY wanted to get a new digital SLR to capture all of the precious moments to come, so I did.....Here is one of my first "artistic" shots of the baby journal that I made for Jen. Hope you like it; a little play with the aperture priority!!

20 Weeks

2009-06-01T22:15:00.000-07:00

It's a GIRL!!!!!!!

2009-06-01T22:12:00.000-07:00

May 17th, 17 weeks
Aren't ultrasounds amazing. Not only do we get to see our precious little one moving about, but also get to find out that SHE is a GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That makes my day!!!!!!!! We are sooo excited to start preparing for her: picking out a name, a crib, bedding, clothes (I better be careful with that one :)

13 weeks!

2009-06-01T22:08:00.000-07:00

Jen's really popping out now :)

Busy Year

2009-06-01T21:50:00.000-07:00

We have had quite an exciting first half of 2009!!!!!

First, a visit to see Kyle's parents in Mexico!!!! Always nice to get some sunshine and warm weather in January!!!

Little did we know..... we had a bun started in the oven :)

Feb. 2009, We find out that we are PREGNANT!!!!!!!
So, fun & exciting!!

Feb 24th, we head off, with James & Rachel Hansen, to Thailand!

Good times!

"So how do we start blogging Kyyllle?"

2009-06-01T21:36:00.001-07:00

Well little Jenny; Once upon a time in a far far land, Sir Blogsalot........

Naaah, we just need to get going. For now we are tired of trying to make our page look cute and will just start here. Hopefully in the near future we will have cute pictures and good things to say about our life. Of course "baby girl" will be a large portion of what is blogged. Thanks for caring about us enough to read our blog! God bless.

The Linds