Thought we'd show you our beautiful Christmas tree! In our new house we have 10 foot ceilings, so we were able to get a really tall one! MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Here's our tree!
Thought we'd show you our beautiful Christmas tree! In our new house we have 10 foot ceilings, so we were able to get a really tall one! MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Shortcut to the Tummy
Had to share this great story from dinner tonight...
I (Marcus) was trying to get London to eat tonight, and he was munching on everything except for the main course, which was a baked chicken leg. I thought it would be helpful to tell him why we eat.
I said:
"So, London, when we eat, the food goes in our mouth, down our throat and into our tummy. And when it gets to our tummy, it makes us strong -- gives us muscles!"
London, as he normally does after long statements from Dad, said, "Wow!" Then he started eating his chicken.
Later on, during dinner, London started shoving balls of rice under his shirt, saying, "It go in my tummy! Muscles!" Kid was looking for a shortcut to eating. Thought if he could just get the food directly to the tummy it would accomplish its task better. We were rolling in laughter.
BONUS STORY:
Lately Savannah's found these Advent season Bible readings, and we've read a few verses and lit a candle before bedtime. Tonight we were in the middle of reading the bible verse from the computer when London blurts out, "VeggieTales! I want silly cup!"
It was then we realized that on BibleGateway.com there was a sidebar ad for VeggieTales, and that London was totally concentrating on that, and a Silly Song with Larry he's watched a few times called "Sippy Cup."
I (Marcus) was trying to get London to eat tonight, and he was munching on everything except for the main course, which was a baked chicken leg. I thought it would be helpful to tell him why we eat.
I said:
"So, London, when we eat, the food goes in our mouth, down our throat and into our tummy. And when it gets to our tummy, it makes us strong -- gives us muscles!"
London, as he normally does after long statements from Dad, said, "Wow!" Then he started eating his chicken.
Later on, during dinner, London started shoving balls of rice under his shirt, saying, "It go in my tummy! Muscles!" Kid was looking for a shortcut to eating. Thought if he could just get the food directly to the tummy it would accomplish its task better. We were rolling in laughter.
BONUS STORY:
Lately Savannah's found these Advent season Bible readings, and we've read a few verses and lit a candle before bedtime. Tonight we were in the middle of reading the bible verse from the computer when London blurts out, "VeggieTales! I want silly cup!"
It was then we realized that on BibleGateway.com there was a sidebar ad for VeggieTales, and that London was totally concentrating on that, and a Silly Song with Larry he's watched a few times called "Sippy Cup."
Monday, November 30, 2009
Christmas is here!?
Wow, we can hardly believe another Christmas fast approaches. It's been a while since we've been on here, but as we've learned, there's really not a lot of time for writing blogs when you're chasing two little ones around!
Quick recap. Liberty is talking, saying "dada", "mama", "more" and "baby." She's also crawling! London says all sorts of words now, and is quite an athlete, singer, theologian and comedian. We had Aunt Stephanie out here the week before Thanksgiving, which was a nice treat. She just ate up little Liberty!
We had fun this past weekend going out to Albers Tree Farm just north of Sandy, as we do every year, to cut down the perfect tree. It's funny; the first time we went out there it was just Sav and I. The second time, same thing. The third time, we had a newborn baby boy. The fourth time, we had a pregnant mama and a 14-month-old. Now, it's all four of us!
We were excited that because of our new house and its 10-foot ceilings we were able to get an awesome, tall tree. Pictures of that are coming soon, but enjoy this family pic of us as we descended the hill into the tree area at Albers Farm.
Merry Christmas to all!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Teenage moment
I checked in on London in his room this afternoon, convinced that he probably would be awake after a long nap.
When I walked into his room -- quietly, I might add -- he turned over and opened his eyes at me.
I said, "Hi London!". He quickly grimaced and said, "No!"
I said, "Are you ready to get up?"
"No!"
"Do you want Mama?"
"NO!"
"Want to watch a movie?"
"NO!!!!"
After a pause...
"Do you just want to sleep?"
He then buried his head in his blanket and said, "Sleep!"
My little teenager.
When I walked into his room -- quietly, I might add -- he turned over and opened his eyes at me.
I said, "Hi London!". He quickly grimaced and said, "No!"
I said, "Are you ready to get up?"
"No!"
"Do you want Mama?"
"NO!"
"Want to watch a movie?"
"NO!!!!"
After a pause...
"Do you just want to sleep?"
He then buried his head in his blanket and said, "Sleep!"
My little teenager.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Happy Anniversary Marcus ~ Sept 13, 2003
Marcus,
I stand before you today, honored and excited to become your wife. From the first day I laid eyes on your, you shined. God has allowed me to become your friend, for this I am truly indebted.
You have brought me closer to our heavenly Father, strengthened my faith in what He sees in me and have instilled a pattern of putting God first that both you and I will pass onto our children.
When I look at you, Marcus, I see all the beauty God sees! Your mind is a fountain of knowledge, wise and discerning; your eyes are compassionate and warm; your lips speak words of love and devotion to me; your hands hold mine and when I am falling behind your feet lead up back on the Lord’s path.
God’s love and grace has me here today so that I may promise to live with you and love you forever, to be a source of joy to your life; to laugh with but never at you, to share and delight in your joy and to share your struggles during the down times, and to be a person you can always depend on.
I will pray for you, with you and initiate times of prayer. I promise to thank you for who you are as well as what you do, and I will venture into your life to see it through your eyes, to hear it through your ears, and to touch it through your fingertips.
Marcus, thank you for loving me the way you do with God’s love. I am so proud to be a confidant, your crutch, your comedian, your best friend but more importantly, your wife.
I love you!
Monday, September 7, 2009
Friday, September 4, 2009
Liberty 7 months Today!
Our little girl is closer to one year today. Liberty is 7 months and growing cuter by the day if that is possible! She is trying to sit up by herself, still working on her first tooth, and tries to roll and arm crawl. Mama is going to have two babies to run after soon. We are enjoying every minute with this precious gift from God.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Halfy birthday, Liberty!
Can you believe it -- Liberty is SIX MONTHS OLD today!
In some ways, it feels like she still just got here. In other ways, it feels like she's always been here. Regardless, she's such a precious part of our lives: so calm, cheerful, sensitive and delicate. She fully embraces the Haven part of her name, bringing peace to everyone she meets.
To celebrate her "halfy birthday," please enjoy this video of Liberty trying her first bites of solid food!
In some ways, it feels like she still just got here. In other ways, it feels like she's always been here. Regardless, she's such a precious part of our lives: so calm, cheerful, sensitive and delicate. She fully embraces the Haven part of her name, bringing peace to everyone she meets.
To celebrate her "halfy birthday," please enjoy this video of Liberty trying her first bites of solid food!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Our holy ritual of getting the "make"
London and I (Marcus) do love our special time of getting the mail. We get it pretty much every day. That used to be a chore -- something we could easily forget -- but with our special time, it's definitely a highlight of both of our days.
It started out with my carrying infant London to the mailbox when he was a wee, immobile lad, out of convenience. Then, when he got a little older, I let him hold the keys. Then, older still, he started walking and was able to stick our key in other people's boxes.
These days, our ritual goes as follows:
- "London, do you want to get the mail?"
- "Make!" (he calls it "make" for some reason... thinking he may combine "mail" with "key")
- He motions to the door. "Keys?"
- I grab the keys, then grab the boy. We walk along the parking lot as he points out cars.
- We approach a sign that says "NO Skateboarding, Bike Riding, etc." He has learned to point to it and say, "NO!!!!" Already reading, eh?
- We get closer to the mailbox and he says, "Hi, Make!"
- I grab the keys and he watches as I get our actual mail.
- Then I set him down and he attempts to open everyone else's boxes.
- When a car goes by, he'll point at it and say "CAR!" or "UH-COCK" (his word for "TRUCK") and as it passes he says, "BYE-BYEEE!"
- He basically does the same thing for any bicyclists or passersby. It's interesting to see who responds to him and who pretends not to notice. If they pretend not to notice, I either say, "They can't hear you," while in earshot, or just address them and say, "Hey, he's saying hi to you!"
- Nowadays I entertain London by jumping off the retaining wall onto the sidewalk nearby. He counts before I jump: "TWO... TWO... TWO!"
- Eventually he gets bored and we go back to the apartment.
This is a constantly evolving thing, and it's really one of the more special times of my day :-)
It started out with my carrying infant London to the mailbox when he was a wee, immobile lad, out of convenience. Then, when he got a little older, I let him hold the keys. Then, older still, he started walking and was able to stick our key in other people's boxes.
These days, our ritual goes as follows:
- "London, do you want to get the mail?"
- "Make!" (he calls it "make" for some reason... thinking he may combine "mail" with "key")
- He motions to the door. "Keys?"
- I grab the keys, then grab the boy. We walk along the parking lot as he points out cars.
- We approach a sign that says "NO Skateboarding, Bike Riding, etc." He has learned to point to it and say, "NO!!!!" Already reading, eh?
- We get closer to the mailbox and he says, "Hi, Make!"
- I grab the keys and he watches as I get our actual mail.
- Then I set him down and he attempts to open everyone else's boxes.
- When a car goes by, he'll point at it and say "CAR!" or "UH-COCK" (his word for "TRUCK") and as it passes he says, "BYE-BYEEE!"
- He basically does the same thing for any bicyclists or passersby. It's interesting to see who responds to him and who pretends not to notice. If they pretend not to notice, I either say, "They can't hear you," while in earshot, or just address them and say, "Hey, he's saying hi to you!"
- Nowadays I entertain London by jumping off the retaining wall onto the sidewalk nearby. He counts before I jump: "TWO... TWO... TWO!"
- Eventually he gets bored and we go back to the apartment.
This is a constantly evolving thing, and it's really one of the more special times of my day :-)
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Father's Day
I (Marcus) am so thankful to be a dad. London and Liberty are what I'm most proud of in my life, and I couldn't be happier to be their father. God has filled my cup indeed!
Today was a great, busy day. It started with Fatherfest at East Hill, where I took pictures for the archives and had fun talking with friends. Then it was off to Flying Pie, where we got our usual pizza meal deal. Then we scurried downtown and Savannah and I sat and talked in a Smart Park while the kids slept in the car. When they woke up, we walked around Pioneer Place and got some yummy buffalo wings at Buffalo Wild Wings (I'd never been there before). Then we saw "UP," which was a challenge given our two tired children, but it was a great movie nonetheless.
A great day. I have to say, it doesn't compare to last year, though, when we found out Savannah was pregnant with a baby who ended up being Liberty. I had given her a dollar store pregnancy test as a joke last year, and forced her to take it. Boy, were we surprised when it came out positive!
Similarly, this year, our good friends Josh and Angela found out THIS Father's Day that they are having their second baby! What a special day to receive such special news!
One quick, funny story from today: London was dipping celery in ranch dressing at Buffalo Wild Wings, when all of the sudden, he plunged his hands into the ramekin and started spreading the dressing all over his hands and arms. We were wondering what he was doing, but Savannah figured it out quickly: He thought the Ranch was sunscreen! Let's just hope he doesn't start eating SPF-50!
Today was a great, busy day. It started with Fatherfest at East Hill, where I took pictures for the archives and had fun talking with friends. Then it was off to Flying Pie, where we got our usual pizza meal deal. Then we scurried downtown and Savannah and I sat and talked in a Smart Park while the kids slept in the car. When they woke up, we walked around Pioneer Place and got some yummy buffalo wings at Buffalo Wild Wings (I'd never been there before). Then we saw "UP," which was a challenge given our two tired children, but it was a great movie nonetheless.
A great day. I have to say, it doesn't compare to last year, though, when we found out Savannah was pregnant with a baby who ended up being Liberty. I had given her a dollar store pregnancy test as a joke last year, and forced her to take it. Boy, were we surprised when it came out positive!Similarly, this year, our good friends Josh and Angela found out THIS Father's Day that they are having their second baby! What a special day to receive such special news!
One quick, funny story from today: London was dipping celery in ranch dressing at Buffalo Wild Wings, when all of the sudden, he plunged his hands into the ramekin and started spreading the dressing all over his hands and arms. We were wondering what he was doing, but Savannah figured it out quickly: He thought the Ranch was sunscreen! Let's just hope he doesn't start eating SPF-50!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Diaperless and Dandy(lions)!
On sunny days, we often enjoy going to parks, soaking up the rays and being carefree with one another.
Recently, at Bella Vista Park, London shed his diaper and gave himself some air while he picked dandelions and provoked a wrestling fight with Daddy.
Enjoy the video!
Recently, at Bella Vista Park, London shed his diaper and gave himself some air while he picked dandelions and provoked a wrestling fight with Daddy.
Enjoy the video!
Liberty's coming into her own
Our little princess is really starting to respond to us. We can't believe how big she's getting, and how much she's learning. She likes to talk to Mom and Dad from time to time, and even will laugh when Daddy tickles her. Watch the video below to see her react to Daddy:
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
New family pics!
Wow, it's been a few weeks, huh?
Well, would you believe we've been busy making videos and taking pictures? You don't believe it? Well, check these new family photos out, taken on Mother's Day. The studio-style one is from the free pictures taken at East Hill; the other was taken at the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Gardens. Enjoy!
Well, would you believe we've been busy making videos and taking pictures? You don't believe it? Well, check these new family photos out, taken on Mother's Day. The studio-style one is from the free pictures taken at East Hill; the other was taken at the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Gardens. Enjoy!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
What amazing weather!
We've been really blessed with some fantastic weather lately. We thought April 6 and 7 was good... April 19 and 20 were record-breaking, dancing at around 80 degrees!
Daddy has Mondays off, so we went to Jamison Square Park in Portland's Pearl District to do some splishing and splashing. London loves wading in the fountain water and climbing the terraced fountain steps. There were a lot of other kids around, as you might expect (especially since school wasn't in session that day), but London didn't mind them... and they didn't mind him.
After playing for a while, all four of us went to Ben & Jerry's (and a day before Free Cone Day, darn!) for some waffle cones of cookie dough and mocha chip. Mmmm! What a day! We thank God for these days because they're probably the closest thing to paradise Earth has to offer!
Watch London as he plays in Jamison Park!
Daddy has Mondays off, so we went to Jamison Square Park in Portland's Pearl District to do some splishing and splashing. London loves wading in the fountain water and climbing the terraced fountain steps. There were a lot of other kids around, as you might expect (especially since school wasn't in session that day), but London didn't mind them... and they didn't mind him.
After playing for a while, all four of us went to Ben & Jerry's (and a day before Free Cone Day, darn!) for some waffle cones of cookie dough and mocha chip. Mmmm! What a day! We thank God for these days because they're probably the closest thing to paradise Earth has to offer!
Watch London as he plays in Jamison Park!
Sunday, April 19, 2009
LoJo the Hoopster
Some sunny, 70-degree weather means that we are getting out of the house and playing wherever we can! Yesterday we went to Timberline Park, where London got his kicks at the basketball court there. He wasn't satisfied just watching a teenager shoot hoops... he had to show him how it's done, or at least how to hold on to a basketball.
Enjoy this video (and the weather, if you're local)!
Enjoy this video (and the weather, if you're local)!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
The Diaper Change Blues
London doesn't mind diaper changes as much as he used to, but he minds them even less if he's able to play the "la-la" (guitar) while he's tidied up. And now, may we present "The Diaper Change Blues."
Monday, April 13, 2009
Even more Easter fun!
We took a lot of pictures and a lot of video this Easter, and we'd be remiss if we didn't give Liberty a little more camera time, nor if we didn't show the new drum set our apartment managers bought London.
So here are two more videos for your enjoyment! Check 'em out!
So here are two more videos for your enjoyment! Check 'em out!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Easter fun!
You know, I hate it when people say they've been "too busy to write," but really, it's true.
We had a great Easter... quite busy! I (Marcus) kept busy the week before with rehearsals for our church's production ("The Door"), and Savannah kept busy with -- well -- the kids!
Saturday was a lot of fun at Meinig Park, the wooded wonderland next door to our apartment. London finally was big enough to compete in the Kiwanis Egg Hunt, and as you'll see from the video below, was quite content with his one Tootsie Pop.
Actually, here's a triple-play of Easter videos. You'll see the hunt, London opening his Easter basket from Grandma and Papa Dunn, and a video of me chasing London around the Meinig Park amphitheater (my personal fave)! Enjoy!
We had a great Easter... quite busy! I (Marcus) kept busy the week before with rehearsals for our church's production ("The Door"), and Savannah kept busy with -- well -- the kids!
Saturday was a lot of fun at Meinig Park, the wooded wonderland next door to our apartment. London finally was big enough to compete in the Kiwanis Egg Hunt, and as you'll see from the video below, was quite content with his one Tootsie Pop.
Actually, here's a triple-play of Easter videos. You'll see the hunt, London opening his Easter basket from Grandma and Papa Dunn, and a video of me chasing London around the Meinig Park amphitheater (my personal fave)! Enjoy!
Monday, April 6, 2009
First sprinkler run!
When we have a 70-degree day in April, you'd better believe we're going to take advantage of it. A nice, sunny day found London and Daddy in the yard, as London enjoyed his first sprinkler run! Enjoy the video!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Maybe we're done?
We have two gorgeous children, but after a look at www.makemebabies.com, we realize we're pretty lucky -- and that maybe we should stop after two? Haha, just kidding, but it was fun to see these hideous photos of our would-be kids that were made by combining our pics... (Apparently Marcus' tan tricked the website into thinking he's an African-American.)
Enjoy the slideshow!
Monday, March 30, 2009
We'll soon be homeowners!
The last couple of days of PawPaw and Gran's visit were spent working on getting our fam into a house! Our knowledgeable real estate broker PawPaw took us around Gresham and Sandy, looking at places in our price range that fit our space requirements.
Well, it turned out that the first place we saw was the one to beat (and the one that ultimately couldn't be beat): A four bedroom, two-and-a-half bath attached townhouse a couple blocks away from our apartment here in Sandy. Asking price was fantastic, and the 1,600 square feet were just what we needed. Brand new building, new appliances, brilliant layout -- woo hoo! (CLICK HERE FOR MORE PICS!)
There were three of these townhouses in a row... one facing Dubarko Road, one in the middle, and one on the north end. We wanted the one on the north end most of all because of its color palette and its location.
So, with PawPaw's help, we got general financial info and presented our first offer... but before the seller could even look at it, he had approved another offer. So, back to the drawing board. The middle unit was nice, too, and was $10k less than the end unit, so we put an offer on that one... but ultimately we were no match for a buyer who offered more than the asking price, and paid in CASH. Unbelievable in these economic times.
We thought we were finished, but then we realized we could put an offer on one of the two as-of-yet unbuilt townhouses across the driveway. T
hose will have the same layout and square footage as the others, but the buyer also will be able to do a little customization. We saw the opportunity, and put an offer... and, praise God, it was accepted last night without so much as a counteroffer!
Thanks go out to God most of all, and right behind Him, PawPaw, for everything he's done to make this happen for us.
We're still 2-4 months away from moving day (because they have to build the units), but that's fine with us, and we're so excited!
There were three of these townhouses in a row... one facing Dubarko Road, one in the middle, and one on the north end. We wanted the one on the north end most of all because of its color palette and its location.
We thought we were finished, but then we realized we could put an offer on one of the two as-of-yet unbuilt townhouses across the driveway. T
Thanks go out to God most of all, and right behind Him, PawPaw, for everything he's done to make this happen for us.
We're still 2-4 months away from moving day (because they have to build the units), but that's fine with us, and we're so excited!
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
PawPaw and Gran visit!
Well, we've been busy this past week, as PawPaw Larry and Granny Debra came for a visit from Dalton, Georgia. They came to see Liberty for the first time, and to play with London lots! We went swimming, played instruments, went out to eat, read books and threw balls. London and Liberty took to their Georgia grandparents quite well!
Here are a few looks at what we did! Enjoy the videos!
Here are a few looks at what we did! Enjoy the videos!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
And... we're back!
Wow... sorry! We've been gone for a little bit, due in part to the fact that we weren't able to find our camera -- the source of all our media -- and the fact that Mama Bear was stricken with the flu.
But the camera's found, Savvy's all better, and we're back!
Here's a little peek into how London is more and more warming up to his sister.
But the camera's found, Savvy's all better, and we're back!
Here's a little peek into how London is more and more warming up to his sister.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Just one perk of having a little sister
London has discovered that having a little sister has its advantages... one being that he can get some mad air in Liberty's bouncer. Liberty's not too keen on the bouncer quite yet, so London's keeping it warm for her as he propels himself into the air.
London learned a new word tonight: popcorn. And he also learned that he really likes the kettle corn variety of microwave popcorn. He couldn't stop eating it! Kept saying "more" and doing the baby sign language for it.
Savannah's been sick the past few days, so Daddy and London have been enjoying some quality time together while Mom and Libby rest.
Check out the video!
London learned a new word tonight: popcorn. And he also learned that he really likes the kettle corn variety of microwave popcorn. He couldn't stop eating it! Kept saying "more" and doing the baby sign language for it.
Savannah's been sick the past few days, so Daddy and London have been enjoying some quality time together while Mom and Libby rest.
Check out the video!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Savvy is 30!
On Wednesday, March 4, Savannah hit the big 3-0! And she had quite the day, completely full of surprises!
The day started with Savvy and Liberty meeting friends from small group (headed by Jenni Foster) and Martina at a European bakery for a delightful breakfast!
Then, Savannah was shuttled back to Gresham from Portland quickly to make an 11:15 a.m. hair appointment. Lunch with Marcus and Liberty at Boccelli's in downtown Gresham came next (London all this time was with Grandma Sheila). Then, her friend Angela stopped by to take her to Ulta (a makeup place) and Borders for some relaxing friend time.
Martina came back a little later to hang out in the afternoon, and the day wrapped up with a surprise gathering of friends and family at our favorite downtown restaurant, Lebanese powerhouse Habibi. (Savannah later spent a surprise gift card at Nordstrom Rack for some new shoes.)
We are so grateful for Savannah, and for what she means to everyone she meets! She is a treasure as a mom, wife, daughter, sister and friend, and is so much cheerier than her age might suggest ;-). She's pink personified! Happy birthday, Savannah! (Hopefully we'll post some pics from the big day on here soon.)
The day started with Savvy and Liberty meeting friends from small group (headed by Jenni Foster) and Martina at a European bakery for a delightful breakfast!
Then, Savannah was shuttled back to Gresham from Portland quickly to make an 11:15 a.m. hair appointment. Lunch with Marcus and Liberty at Boccelli's in downtown Gresham came next (London all this time was with Grandma Sheila). Then, her friend Angela stopped by to take her to Ulta (a makeup place) and Borders for some relaxing friend time.
Martina came back a little later to hang out in the afternoon, and the day wrapped up with a surprise gathering of friends and family at our favorite downtown restaurant, Lebanese powerhouse Habibi. (Savannah later spent a surprise gift card at Nordstrom Rack for some new shoes.)
We are so grateful for Savannah, and for what she means to everyone she meets! She is a treasure as a mom, wife, daughter, sister and friend, and is so much cheerier than her age might suggest ;-). She's pink personified! Happy birthday, Savannah! (Hopefully we'll post some pics from the big day on here soon.)
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
London's fatherly instincts
During bathtime, London showed us that he's been paying attention as we've taken care of sister Liberty. He loves to say the word "baby," and during bathtime tonight, showed us that he knows how to handle a little one of his own. I kept trying to get him to do the "top-top, bottom-bottom, middle-middle-middle" burping song from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, but he only did it to himself briefly.
Watch our son be fatherly! It's hilarious! (Sorry about the green "blinks" -- not sure what caused those...)
Watch our son be fatherly! It's hilarious! (Sorry about the green "blinks" -- not sure what caused those...)
Monday, February 23, 2009
London's latest antics
London's doing SO much better these days. His appetite is back with a vengeance, and he is back to his happy, Tasmanian Devil self.
He never ceases to keep us laughing, whether it's the way he says "Hi-eeee!" to everyone who walks by, the way he says "ball" with a Southern accent (it sounds more like "bawl"), or the way he flirts with every lady who walks by (but then says "NO" to the less-attractive ones when they flirt back).
Daddy got to film his first video with both babies last week, but of course London stole the show while Liberty napped. This boy just can't stick to a script! Check out the video below!
He never ceases to keep us laughing, whether it's the way he says "Hi-eeee!" to everyone who walks by, the way he says "ball" with a Southern accent (it sounds more like "bawl"), or the way he flirts with every lady who walks by (but then says "NO" to the less-attractive ones when they flirt back).
Daddy got to film his first video with both babies last week, but of course London stole the show while Liberty napped. This boy just can't stick to a script! Check out the video below!
Thursday, February 19, 2009
22 second cousins (and no first cousins?)
I (Marcus) was thinking about cousins tonight. There is a very real possibility that London and Liberty could grow up without any full first cousins -- a major departure from my and Savannah's experience.
On my mom's side, I have six cousins. On my dad's side, I have three. Savannah has two-dozen!
My older half-sister, Stephanie, has twins -- Kennedy and Foster -- who live in Nashville. They are, for all intents and purposes, my kids' cousins. Although technically, they aren't full first cousins... they are half-first cousins, because Stephanie is my half-sister.
Same is true for my little half-sister, Shannon. If she has children someday, they probably will be quite a bit younger than my two (they BETTER had be... she's only 18!), and they will still be half-first cousins.
Our only hope is for Savannah's full-blooded brother and/or sister to have children, which only time will tell. Otherwise, London and Liberty will have to enjoy the company of their 22 second cousins (the children of our first cousins). Nineteen of those are from Savannah's side, and of those, about a half-dozen of those will be in the age range to play with London and Liberty when we all visit Idaho.
But really, in the end, kids don't care if their cousins are "first", "half-first" or "second" cousins! They just want someone to play with.
On my mom's side, I have six cousins. On my dad's side, I have three. Savannah has two-dozen!
My older half-sister, Stephanie, has twins -- Kennedy and Foster -- who live in Nashville. They are, for all intents and purposes, my kids' cousins. Although technically, they aren't full first cousins... they are half-first cousins, because Stephanie is my half-sister.
Same is true for my little half-sister, Shannon. If she has children someday, they probably will be quite a bit younger than my two (they BETTER had be... she's only 18!), and they will still be half-first cousins.
Our only hope is for Savannah's full-blooded brother and/or sister to have children, which only time will tell. Otherwise, London and Liberty will have to enjoy the company of their 22 second cousins (the children of our first cousins). Nineteen of those are from Savannah's side, and of those, about a half-dozen of those will be in the age range to play with London and Liberty when we all visit Idaho.
But really, in the end, kids don't care if their cousins are "first", "half-first" or "second" cousins! They just want someone to play with.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Daddy's "sweet" girl
We went to Liberty's two-week appointment today, and, to our pleasant surprise, learned that our little darling not only has gained back her birth weight, but she has exceeded it! Yep, she's packing on the pounds. Woo hoo!
She has a couple periods a day when she's really alert and will look you in the eye, grin and punch the air. She makes the cutest faces and grunt noises.
I (Marcus) apparently don't have a very large vocabulary when it comes to Liberty. The word "sweet" appears in this less-than-two-minute video four times.
She has a couple periods a day when she's really alert and will look you in the eye, grin and punch the air. She makes the cutest faces and grunt noises.
I (Marcus) apparently don't have a very large vocabulary when it comes to Liberty. The word "sweet" appears in this less-than-two-minute video four times.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Calming (and chowing) down!
Things are settling down around here at the Hathcock cave.
London's appetite slowly is returning. Liberty's is increasing. London's still having some difficulty sharing Mom, but for the most part has returned to his happy-go-lucky self. He has, however, become an anti-homebody, regularly toddling to our front door and banging on it to go for a walk or out on an errand. Outings make him happy.
Illness, praise God, has left us, and now, nearly two weeks after Liberty was born, we're finally able to focus on getting into a rhythm. We asked ourselves tonight, "How much more would we have it together if we would have been home since Feb. 6?" Probably lots more... oh well!
We really have felt supported by our friends and family, who all have lent a hand. On Friday, Savannah's cousin Mary made us a delicious chili dinner with salad and brownies. On Sunday, our good friend Alexis made us a wonderful chicken and noodles dish (I'm not a cook, so I couldn't tell you what it was... but it involved angel hair) a salad, some yummy carrot (cup)cakes and a sweet card. More food's coming our way tomorrow!
Here's some food for thought: a video of little Liberty in her bouncer! She's such a sweetie!
London's appetite slowly is returning. Liberty's is increasing. London's still having some difficulty sharing Mom, but for the most part has returned to his happy-go-lucky self. He has, however, become an anti-homebody, regularly toddling to our front door and banging on it to go for a walk or out on an errand. Outings make him happy.
Illness, praise God, has left us, and now, nearly two weeks after Liberty was born, we're finally able to focus on getting into a rhythm. We asked ourselves tonight, "How much more would we have it together if we would have been home since Feb. 6?" Probably lots more... oh well!
We really have felt supported by our friends and family, who all have lent a hand. On Friday, Savannah's cousin Mary made us a delicious chili dinner with salad and brownies. On Sunday, our good friend Alexis made us a wonderful chicken and noodles dish (I'm not a cook, so I couldn't tell you what it was... but it involved angel hair) a salad, some yummy carrot (cup)cakes and a sweet card. More food's coming our way tomorrow!
Here's some food for thought: a video of little Liberty in her bouncer! She's such a sweetie!
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Sick and heart-sick on V-Day
Going to Kaiser Permanente's urgent care seems to be a new Hathcock family Saturday tradition!
London hasn't been too interested in eating anything except his FIRST FOOD (if you know what I mean... OK, if you don't: breast milk) since last Saturday night. He vomited last Sunday morning while staying at Grandma Nomi's, and continued to be sick.
We figured out it was norovirus when the rest of us (except for Liberty, thank God) caught the bug. Although the rest of us seemed to shake it, London never really did, and never got his appetite back.
Wednesday was the last time he threw up ... until today ... Valentine's Day. Taking that, his nonexistent appetite and the fact that some red-tinged liquid (blood?) appeared in his diaper on three occasions led us to the only Kaiser urgent care open on Saturday night: Interstate Ave. -- that's North Portland, folks.
They took some blood and asked questions and really decided that London has two different things going on: He's still recovering from norovirus (or suffering from it), and is psychologically adjusting to Liberty's presence.
That makes a lot of sense to me (Marcus). London is his normal, happy, energetic, flirty, zany self when it's just you and him. Grandma Nomi came over today and he was animated. He and I went around Sandy on some errands and he was a hoot to everyone he met. When he got home, the difference was like night and day. He was inconsolable.
The nurse practitioner said that during major changes like this, children revert to earlier stages to try to cope. She said that had London been older and was potty trained, he would be back in diapers. It's a process, and not an easy one. Poor little fella.
While we were waiting to leave urgent care in the middle of Portland on Valentine's night (and as I was thinking of the glass of wine I'd have upon getting home), we had what I think was a bit of a breakthru. I held Liberty up close to London, and let them interact.
He was such a gentleman. Of his own accord, he rubbed her belly and head gently, he said a cheery "Hi!" to her, and he blew her kisses. It was really sweet. I think we just need to give him the ability to understand that she doesn't just mean something to us -- she means something to HIM, too.
We're going to arrange a few more of these little play dates ... just as soon as we're sure he's kicked the evil bug.
London hasn't been too interested in eating anything except his FIRST FOOD (if you know what I mean... OK, if you don't: breast milk) since last Saturday night. He vomited last Sunday morning while staying at Grandma Nomi's, and continued to be sick.
We figured out it was norovirus when the rest of us (except for Liberty, thank God) caught the bug. Although the rest of us seemed to shake it, London never really did, and never got his appetite back.
Wednesday was the last time he threw up ... until today ... Valentine's Day. Taking that, his nonexistent appetite and the fact that some red-tinged liquid (blood?) appeared in his diaper on three occasions led us to the only Kaiser urgent care open on Saturday night: Interstate Ave. -- that's North Portland, folks.
They took some blood and asked questions and really decided that London has two different things going on: He's still recovering from norovirus (or suffering from it), and is psychologically adjusting to Liberty's presence.
That makes a lot of sense to me (Marcus). London is his normal, happy, energetic, flirty, zany self when it's just you and him. Grandma Nomi came over today and he was animated. He and I went around Sandy on some errands and he was a hoot to everyone he met. When he got home, the difference was like night and day. He was inconsolable.
The nurse practitioner said that during major changes like this, children revert to earlier stages to try to cope. She said that had London been older and was potty trained, he would be back in diapers. It's a process, and not an easy one. Poor little fella.
While we were waiting to leave urgent care in the middle of Portland on Valentine's night (and as I was thinking of the glass of wine I'd have upon getting home), we had what I think was a bit of a breakthru. I held Liberty up close to London, and let them interact.
He was such a gentleman. Of his own accord, he rubbed her belly and head gently, he said a cheery "Hi!" to her, and he blew her kisses. It was really sweet. I think we just need to give him the ability to understand that she doesn't just mean something to us -- she means something to HIM, too.
We're going to arrange a few more of these little play dates ... just as soon as we're sure he's kicked the evil bug.
Friday, February 13, 2009
London and Liberty
We're home again... finally.
I (Marcus) went back to work today for my first half-day, a scenario I will repeat throughout next week to ease the transition back into the "normal" routine.
Our little guy, though, isn't transitioning so well. He's had a few meltdowns since getting home. It's hard for him to see Mom and Dad's attention divided between him and this new, mysterious invader. That's been tough on him, emotionally, and when you throw in his getting over norovirus, it's no wonder he's not eating too well. We're hoping and praying his appetite returns soon.
Liberty's doing quite well. She needs to go poo a little more, but other than that, she's happy and healthy... cooing and alert.
London actually is somewhat fascinated by Liberty when he isn't jealous of her. Check out this video of some of their first moments together. I like it when he squawks at her. The very first time he saw her, he actually made the noise he makes for a monkey, telling us he thought she was a monkey. He loses interest pretty fast, but we know they'll be great friends when they can actually play together.
Watch this!
I (Marcus) went back to work today for my first half-day, a scenario I will repeat throughout next week to ease the transition back into the "normal" routine.
Our little guy, though, isn't transitioning so well. He's had a few meltdowns since getting home. It's hard for him to see Mom and Dad's attention divided between him and this new, mysterious invader. That's been tough on him, emotionally, and when you throw in his getting over norovirus, it's no wonder he's not eating too well. We're hoping and praying his appetite returns soon.
Liberty's doing quite well. She needs to go poo a little more, but other than that, she's happy and healthy... cooing and alert.
London actually is somewhat fascinated by Liberty when he isn't jealous of her. Check out this video of some of their first moments together. I like it when he squawks at her. The very first time he saw her, he actually made the noise he makes for a monkey, telling us he thought she was a monkey. He loses interest pretty fast, but we know they'll be great friends when they can actually play together.
Watch this!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Norovirus
As if the past week wasn't bad enough... we all have norovirus, except for Liberty. Lots of people getting physically ill. My mom and stepdad got it, too. Pray that little Liberty doesn't get it.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
On to the NEXT challenge...
Well, praise the Lord, we were released from Doernbecher Children's Hospital at about dinnertime yesterday, much to our surprise and joy. We're still amazed and grateful at the about-face the new (more level-headed) doctors provided.
We reached my (Marcus') parents house just before 8, watched "The Bachelor" with my parents and gathered everything to leave. Just as I started to put London in his carseat to go home to Sandy, he vomited all over himself.
So, we all came back inside, tried to make the boy drink PediaLite and slept in the downstairs guest room. We were so close...
We have a doctor's appointment tomorrow morning in Rockwood for Liberty (the "Well Baby" checkup she was supposed to have Sunday), and London will see someone later. It looks like he has a virus, though... not much we can do about that but keep him hydrated and happy.
Liberty's fine, as she always was! You can tell she's happier being in cozier, more comfortable surroundings and is responding by being more alert every day. Her eyes are definitely blue.
We miss home, but are thankful to be amongst grandparents who are supporting us and taking care of our fragile children and their perhaps even more fragile parents.
I'm hoping to get some video up on here once things calm down a bit, but enjoy this pic, taken by our friend Emily McFadden, in the meantime.
We reached my (Marcus') parents house just before 8, watched "The Bachelor" with my parents and gathered everything to leave. Just as I started to put London in his carseat to go home to Sandy, he vomited all over himself.
So, we all came back inside, tried to make the boy drink PediaLite and slept in the downstairs guest room. We were so close...
We have a doctor's appointment tomorrow morning in Rockwood for Liberty (the "Well Baby" checkup she was supposed to have Sunday), and London will see someone later. It looks like he has a virus, though... not much we can do about that but keep him hydrated and happy.
Liberty's fine, as she always was! You can tell she's happier being in cozier, more comfortable surroundings and is responding by being more alert every day. Her eyes are definitely blue.
We miss home, but are thankful to be amongst grandparents who are supporting us and taking care of our fragile children and their perhaps even more fragile parents.
I'm hoping to get some video up on here once things calm down a bit, but enjoy this pic, taken by our friend Emily McFadden, in the meantime.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Has the tide turned?
Hey there,
Just an update. The changing of the doctors might spell good news for us. Finally there's a resident and an attending who both agree that Liberty isn't showing any signs of problems, and that invasiveness doesn't make sense. Thank God!
Our attending told us we might even be able to go home today, although Savannah and I aren't counting on it. We know they probably will keep us until tomorrow, both to monitor Liberty, and to watch her urine and blood cultures to make sure they don't grow bacteria. So far, so good, though -- nothing to speak of.
On the other hand, we're seeing increasing signs that our monitoring equipment is moody. If Liberty kicks, if I'm patting her on the back, if we let the cords hang, or a host of other "IFs," we're told the readings can be off.
So we're hopeful that our caregivers will take that into account before making any additional judgments. We're confident that we'll be home tomorrow, but we're not counting any chickens just yet.
(Side note: London, whose had a cold for a couple of weeks now -- and passed it on to daddy -- threw up for the first time at Grandma Nomi's house this morning. Lots of snot has drained into his poor tummy. We miss him so much, and feel for him!)
Word is there's going to be snow tonight. We're in the upper hills above Portland, so we're looking forward to a great show out of our hospital room window. Our apartment in Sandy could get up to 6 inches tonight!
With Love,
Marcus, Savannah and Liberty
Just an update. The changing of the doctors might spell good news for us. Finally there's a resident and an attending who both agree that Liberty isn't showing any signs of problems, and that invasiveness doesn't make sense. Thank God!
Our attending told us we might even be able to go home today, although Savannah and I aren't counting on it. We know they probably will keep us until tomorrow, both to monitor Liberty, and to watch her urine and blood cultures to make sure they don't grow bacteria. So far, so good, though -- nothing to speak of.
On the other hand, we're seeing increasing signs that our monitoring equipment is moody. If Liberty kicks, if I'm patting her on the back, if we let the cords hang, or a host of other "IFs," we're told the readings can be off.
So we're hopeful that our caregivers will take that into account before making any additional judgments. We're confident that we'll be home tomorrow, but we're not counting any chickens just yet.
(Side note: London, whose had a cold for a couple of weeks now -- and passed it on to daddy -- threw up for the first time at Grandma Nomi's house this morning. Lots of snot has drained into his poor tummy. We miss him so much, and feel for him!)
Word is there's going to be snow tonight. We're in the upper hills above Portland, so we're looking forward to a great show out of our hospital room window. Our apartment in Sandy could get up to 6 inches tonight!
With Love,
Marcus, Savannah and Liberty
Sunday, February 8, 2009
A difficult couple of days
As the title suggests, it's been a difficult couple of days.
We spent all of 18 hours as a family of four at home in Sandy. We got home Friday afternoon, had an incredible evening together, and a decent night. London slept through the night and we were able to give Liberty plenty of attention.
Things changed Saturday morning when Savannah saw a bit of blue around Liberty's lips while our daughter made a gulping sort of gesture. Savannah was concerned (and I've been told that's bad news, too), so we called urgent care, who told us to come right in.
So we quickly found ourselves back at Sunnyside. A doctor examined Liberty and checked her blood saturation, which registered at acceptable levels. But the prospect of blue lips was disturbing enough to the doctor to have Liberty be under observation for 24 hours. But since Kaiser doesn't have that sort of pediatric specialist, we were sent to Doernbecher Children's Hospital.
The original plan was to hook Liberty up to monitoring equipment, see if any clues emerged, and go home Sunday afternoon. During the night, though, Liberty's blood/oxygen saturation levels hit 81 percent (90 percent is the lowest acceptable rate). That, combined with Savannah's initial report, concerned the attending doctor.
Here's where I have a problem. Liberty's fine. She's generally happy. She eats well. She poops well. Pees well. Does everything well. She probably breathes a little slower than the average baby, but her blood saturation is pretty much ALWAYS close to 100 percent.
Another problem: The monitoring equipment is extremely sensitive and has been shown on multiple occasions to be incorrect. For example, it will say that her breathing is at very dangerous levels, but her saturation will be fantastic and her heart rate unchanged. The nurses have agreed that it's all in the positioning.
So, the following treatment plan was based on the uncertain report of my wife, and the uncertain reporting of the machine:
They thought that Liberty's case was worth checking for infections in the urine, blood and spinal fluid. That required a urinalysis (complete with catheter), drawing blood for the fifth time in four days and a spinal tap. That's right, spinal tap. No, not the band. They also wanted us to pump her full of two very powerful antibiotics JUST IN CASE she had an infection.
We understood the "better safe than sorry" philosophy, but a spinal tap? Antibiotics? For a girl who is 99% asymptomatic? Sorry, that just didn't jibe. We told them NO WAY on those counts, but instead to take the blood, take the urine, and see what it shows. Check the white blood cell count. See if there's anything to pay attention to.
Guess what? Big surprise -- nothing so far with the blood and urine! Great results! Who could have seen that coming? (Me. Yes, definitely me.)
Long story short: Liberty's fine. Her blood culture will be under observation for two days to see if any infection manifests, but we're confident it won't.
What I'm afraid of is that during this, some sort of manufactured problem will arise. For example, treatments that are not necessary creating a chain reaction that actually CREATES a medical problem for Liberty. I'm worried that all they need is an excuse -- a faulty monitor reading, perhaps -- to either keep us longer or suggest ridiculous things like a spinal tap.
It's been hard on us. We know she's OK, and this is a really crappy way to begin her life. We miss London, who has been staying at my mom's this whole time. We miss our home. We mourn the fact I go back to work at the end of the week, having no time to bond as a family, as we'd originally hoped.
Please pray for us. Pray that the doctors would have wisdom and would be gun-shy (not trigger-happy) when it comes to diagnoses and treatment. Pray that we would have peace. Pray that London would be OK. Pray that Liberty would not DEVELOP a problem from all of this.
We strongly believe that we'll be home Tuesday, though. Thanks for listening.
-Marcus, Savannah and Liberty
OHSU Doernbecher Hospital, 9-North, Rm. 27 (Yes, we'll accept visitors!)
We spent all of 18 hours as a family of four at home in Sandy. We got home Friday afternoon, had an incredible evening together, and a decent night. London slept through the night and we were able to give Liberty plenty of attention.
Things changed Saturday morning when Savannah saw a bit of blue around Liberty's lips while our daughter made a gulping sort of gesture. Savannah was concerned (and I've been told that's bad news, too), so we called urgent care, who told us to come right in.
So we quickly found ourselves back at Sunnyside. A doctor examined Liberty and checked her blood saturation, which registered at acceptable levels. But the prospect of blue lips was disturbing enough to the doctor to have Liberty be under observation for 24 hours. But since Kaiser doesn't have that sort of pediatric specialist, we were sent to Doernbecher Children's Hospital.
The original plan was to hook Liberty up to monitoring equipment, see if any clues emerged, and go home Sunday afternoon. During the night, though, Liberty's blood/oxygen saturation levels hit 81 percent (90 percent is the lowest acceptable rate). That, combined with Savannah's initial report, concerned the attending doctor.
Here's where I have a problem. Liberty's fine. She's generally happy. She eats well. She poops well. Pees well. Does everything well. She probably breathes a little slower than the average baby, but her blood saturation is pretty much ALWAYS close to 100 percent.
Another problem: The monitoring equipment is extremely sensitive and has been shown on multiple occasions to be incorrect. For example, it will say that her breathing is at very dangerous levels, but her saturation will be fantastic and her heart rate unchanged. The nurses have agreed that it's all in the positioning.
So, the following treatment plan was based on the uncertain report of my wife, and the uncertain reporting of the machine:
They thought that Liberty's case was worth checking for infections in the urine, blood and spinal fluid. That required a urinalysis (complete with catheter), drawing blood for the fifth time in four days and a spinal tap. That's right, spinal tap. No, not the band. They also wanted us to pump her full of two very powerful antibiotics JUST IN CASE she had an infection.
We understood the "better safe than sorry" philosophy, but a spinal tap? Antibiotics? For a girl who is 99% asymptomatic? Sorry, that just didn't jibe. We told them NO WAY on those counts, but instead to take the blood, take the urine, and see what it shows. Check the white blood cell count. See if there's anything to pay attention to.
Guess what? Big surprise -- nothing so far with the blood and urine! Great results! Who could have seen that coming? (Me. Yes, definitely me.)
Long story short: Liberty's fine. Her blood culture will be under observation for two days to see if any infection manifests, but we're confident it won't.
What I'm afraid of is that during this, some sort of manufactured problem will arise. For example, treatments that are not necessary creating a chain reaction that actually CREATES a medical problem for Liberty. I'm worried that all they need is an excuse -- a faulty monitor reading, perhaps -- to either keep us longer or suggest ridiculous things like a spinal tap.
It's been hard on us. We know she's OK, and this is a really crappy way to begin her life. We miss London, who has been staying at my mom's this whole time. We miss our home. We mourn the fact I go back to work at the end of the week, having no time to bond as a family, as we'd originally hoped.
Please pray for us. Pray that the doctors would have wisdom and would be gun-shy (not trigger-happy) when it comes to diagnoses and treatment. Pray that we would have peace. Pray that London would be OK. Pray that Liberty would not DEVELOP a problem from all of this.
We strongly believe that we'll be home Tuesday, though. Thanks for listening.
-Marcus, Savannah and Liberty
OHSU Doernbecher Hospital, 9-North, Rm. 27 (Yes, we'll accept visitors!)
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Liberty's first moments
Here's a video I took of the first few moments of Liberty's life. She's such a sweetie... and although I say that she looks like her brother in the video, upon further review I'll say she RESEMBLES her brother... she definitely has more of Savannah in her than London does!
Enjoy the video!
Enjoy the video!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
The Liberty story
OK, here's how it went down:
As you read earlier, we had a scare Friday before last: contractions that got our attention, but went away once Savannah got ill. So when I (Marcus) woke up Wednesday morning, Feb. 4, I wasn't sure what to think when my wife told me she was having some contractions.
The contractions were about 11 minutes apart for about an hour, and then they just stopped. So, disappointed, I went to work at about 8:20. But just as I was pulling up to East Hill, I got a call from Savannah, telling me that the contractions were back, and that they hurt A LOT worse. I told her to keep an eye on them, and to let me know if things looked like they were getting worse.
I got one task done at work before I got a call from Savannah, frantic and in pain. I knew it was time to go home fairly soon. So I went to our HR department, filled out my family leave request, and rushed back to my office to send off an e-mail to tie up loose ends. Before I could jet off, my office was filled with two-dozen or so prayer warriors -- staff from the church -- who anointed me, prayed for healing (I have a cold) and asked God's protection over Savannah and the baby. It was moving to have so many people covering us in prayer.
Then, like a bat out of hell, I made the trip from Gresham to Sandy in a personal-best 9 minutes.
When I got home, Savannah was in the downstairs bathroom, working through a contraction as London was playing in the living room, oblivious. I grabbed the three things I needed -- this laptop, our phone charger and some cough drops -- and tossed London in the car.
The tough part was getting Savannah out of the apartment. She was clearly in pain, and was working through some difficult contractions.
"Savannah," I said, "We have to leave, honey." She responded by telling me to knock it off (I chuckled... she slugged me... I chuckled again) and that she was in too much pain to move. I realized that if we didn't get out of there soon, we weren't going to get out of there at all. Things had progressed extremely quickly. I finally was able to escort her out the door and into the car.
The car ride from Sandy to Clackamas must have been excruciating for Savannah. Her contractions went from 5 minutes apart to 3 minutes apart, and I realized that Liberty was a LOT closer than I had thought. I drove up to 80 mph on Highways 26 and 212, trying to weave through some sluggish mid-morning traffic.
I noticed Savannah had entered the climactic Transition Phase when she was sort of in her own little world and didn't respond well to my voice or touch. She basically was like a turtle in her shell. When that happened -- somewhere in Happy Valley -- I realized we had to MOVE.
I blew a red light -- almost two -- and I zoomed down Sunnyside as Savannah said, "HURRY!" By the way she was holding her pelvis I could tell she wanted to PUSH!
We got to the hospital -- finally -- and I was at a loss for what to do. My initial instinct was to leave London in the car, while it was running, as I escorted my bride to the nurses... but Savannah told me to grab the boy. I turned off the car, plucked London out, and stayed with Savannah until a team of like a half-dozen people descended on her.
Then I met up with Savannah's mom, Sheila, to pass off London and grab our labor and postpartum stuff that was packed in the car. I knew I had to hurry because I was afraid Savannah would have the baby without me!
With serious adrenaline, I somehow grabbed a trunkload of stuff and hoofed it to the labor and delivery room... and seconds after I set everything down, the pushing started. PUSHING? She walked in at a 9.5 dilation! I could not believe how quickly everything went!
Just THIRTY MINUTES after getting checked in, Liberty Haven was born at 11:06 a.m. She was born face-up (which resulted in a couple nose scratches) and with no complications. Her skin color was rated a 10 (the best!) and breathing and everything has been flawless! She needs a little nudging to eat thus far, but is handling it like a champ!
[[Interesting facts: Grandpa Steve showed up about an hour after Liberty was born, because he heard Savannah was in labor and wanted to see how things were going... little did he know, Liberty was born! Also, our nurse, Sarah, told us that had her son been a girl, her name would have been Liberty. Her son's name? London!]]
Liberty is such a doll. She has a cute cry, curious soulful eyes, a fuzzy head, ruby lips and a relaxed disposition. We couldn't be happier! She got her first shot, her first bath, first spa treatment (hair-washing, which she loved!) and has been so graceful.
She truly represents her name: A gal who makes us feel such freedom and rest. Praise Jesus for a truly perfect day.
I asked Savannah, "So, if you had to choose a labor like London's or Liberty's, which would you choose?" Without question, she said, "Like Liberty."
Check out the photos in our last post, or visit my (Marcus's) page on Facebook.
As you read earlier, we had a scare Friday before last: contractions that got our attention, but went away once Savannah got ill. So when I (Marcus) woke up Wednesday morning, Feb. 4, I wasn't sure what to think when my wife told me she was having some contractions.
The contractions were about 11 minutes apart for about an hour, and then they just stopped. So, disappointed, I went to work at about 8:20. But just as I was pulling up to East Hill, I got a call from Savannah, telling me that the contractions were back, and that they hurt A LOT worse. I told her to keep an eye on them, and to let me know if things looked like they were getting worse.
I got one task done at work before I got a call from Savannah, frantic and in pain. I knew it was time to go home fairly soon. So I went to our HR department, filled out my family leave request, and rushed back to my office to send off an e-mail to tie up loose ends. Before I could jet off, my office was filled with two-dozen or so prayer warriors -- staff from the church -- who anointed me, prayed for healing (I have a cold) and asked God's protection over Savannah and the baby. It was moving to have so many people covering us in prayer.
Then, like a bat out of hell, I made the trip from Gresham to Sandy in a personal-best 9 minutes.
When I got home, Savannah was in the downstairs bathroom, working through a contraction as London was playing in the living room, oblivious. I grabbed the three things I needed -- this laptop, our phone charger and some cough drops -- and tossed London in the car.
The tough part was getting Savannah out of the apartment. She was clearly in pain, and was working through some difficult contractions.
"Savannah," I said, "We have to leave, honey." She responded by telling me to knock it off (I chuckled... she slugged me... I chuckled again) and that she was in too much pain to move. I realized that if we didn't get out of there soon, we weren't going to get out of there at all. Things had progressed extremely quickly. I finally was able to escort her out the door and into the car.
The car ride from Sandy to Clackamas must have been excruciating for Savannah. Her contractions went from 5 minutes apart to 3 minutes apart, and I realized that Liberty was a LOT closer than I had thought. I drove up to 80 mph on Highways 26 and 212, trying to weave through some sluggish mid-morning traffic.
I noticed Savannah had entered the climactic Transition Phase when she was sort of in her own little world and didn't respond well to my voice or touch. She basically was like a turtle in her shell. When that happened -- somewhere in Happy Valley -- I realized we had to MOVE.
I blew a red light -- almost two -- and I zoomed down Sunnyside as Savannah said, "HURRY!" By the way she was holding her pelvis I could tell she wanted to PUSH!
We got to the hospital -- finally -- and I was at a loss for what to do. My initial instinct was to leave London in the car, while it was running, as I escorted my bride to the nurses... but Savannah told me to grab the boy. I turned off the car, plucked London out, and stayed with Savannah until a team of like a half-dozen people descended on her.
Then I met up with Savannah's mom, Sheila, to pass off London and grab our labor and postpartum stuff that was packed in the car. I knew I had to hurry because I was afraid Savannah would have the baby without me!
With serious adrenaline, I somehow grabbed a trunkload of stuff and hoofed it to the labor and delivery room... and seconds after I set everything down, the pushing started. PUSHING? She walked in at a 9.5 dilation! I could not believe how quickly everything went!
Just THIRTY MINUTES after getting checked in, Liberty Haven was born at 11:06 a.m. She was born face-up (which resulted in a couple nose scratches) and with no complications. Her skin color was rated a 10 (the best!) and breathing and everything has been flawless! She needs a little nudging to eat thus far, but is handling it like a champ!
[[Interesting facts: Grandpa Steve showed up about an hour after Liberty was born, because he heard Savannah was in labor and wanted to see how things were going... little did he know, Liberty was born! Also, our nurse, Sarah, told us that had her son been a girl, her name would have been Liberty. Her son's name? London!]]
Liberty is such a doll. She has a cute cry, curious soulful eyes, a fuzzy head, ruby lips and a relaxed disposition. We couldn't be happier! She got her first shot, her first bath, first spa treatment (hair-washing, which she loved!) and has been so graceful.
She truly represents her name: A gal who makes us feel such freedom and rest. Praise Jesus for a truly perfect day.
I asked Savannah, "So, if you had to choose a labor like London's or Liberty's, which would you choose?" Without question, she said, "Like Liberty."
Check out the photos in our last post, or visit my (Marcus's) page on Facebook.
Introducing -- LIBERTY HAVEN!
She's here! Well, as we're resting and trying to even catch our breath, we thought we'd share some photos of our delightful new daugther, Liberty Haven Hathcock.
She was born 7 lbs., 4 oz. at 11:06 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, and wow -- what a story! We'll have to tell you more later, but for now, enjoy the newest little light in our world. Praise God that all is well and that mom and baby are great!
She was born 7 lbs., 4 oz. at 11:06 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, and wow -- what a story! We'll have to tell you more later, but for now, enjoy the newest little light in our world. Praise God that all is well and that mom and baby are great!
Baby time?
It's 9:30 a.m. PST Wednesday, Feb. 4. Savannah's having some gnarly contractions that are becoming more regular.
We're outta here.
Could this be it?
We're outta here.
Could this be it?
Monday, February 2, 2009
Spontaneous labor or Feb. 15th?
Doc says that is the question for Liberty.
She'll either be born spontaneously when Savannah goes into labor, or they'll induce her at 41 weeks gestation. Now, 41 weeks actually is Feb. 14, but Savannah doesn't want our little girl to compete with some other festivities that happen that day... so induction day is set for Feb. 15.
Savannah is progressing well body-wise, and it's still very possible that Liberty could come before the Feb. 7 due date. But this little darlin' of ours seems to be quite comfy in her bodily hot-tub.
There's some information out there about second pregnancies, but it's pretty difficult to find some definite information about whether second babies come early or late.
We'll see!
She'll either be born spontaneously when Savannah goes into labor, or they'll induce her at 41 weeks gestation. Now, 41 weeks actually is Feb. 14, but Savannah doesn't want our little girl to compete with some other festivities that happen that day... so induction day is set for Feb. 15.
Savannah is progressing well body-wise, and it's still very possible that Liberty could come before the Feb. 7 due date. But this little darlin' of ours seems to be quite comfy in her bodily hot-tub.
There's some information out there about second pregnancies, but it's pretty difficult to find some definite information about whether second babies come early or late.
We'll see!
Friday, January 30, 2009
Bathtime fun!
London really enjoys his baths. Chillin' in his special baby mini-bath, London enjoys playing with his special water toys -- the coolest of which is a wind-up turtle -- and splashing around.
We took a few minutes during our bath tonight to show you how much he loves to splash around. Mommy tries to play tug-of-war with him -- which usually makes him explode with giggles -- but the game goes totally awry.
At one point, when London is asked to wave to everybody, he says, "I did."
Enjoy the video!
(Oh, and of course, we're still waiting for Liberty. We're 39 weeks today! I would be saying "C'mon already" if not for the fact that I've come down with the cold. I can wait a few days to get better before she comes!)
We took a few minutes during our bath tonight to show you how much he loves to splash around. Mommy tries to play tug-of-war with him -- which usually makes him explode with giggles -- but the game goes totally awry.
At one point, when London is asked to wave to everybody, he says, "I did."
Enjoy the video!
(Oh, and of course, we're still waiting for Liberty. We're 39 weeks today! I would be saying "C'mon already" if not for the fact that I've come down with the cold. I can wait a few days to get better before she comes!)
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Three minutes with London (and Liberty update)
Yep, still waiting!
Went to the doctor Monday afternoon, only to discover that Liberty is bobbing up and down in the womb, making predicting her birth extremely difficult. (Apparently this is normal for second-borns.) Since Savannah's prelabor episode Saturday morning, all's been pretty quiet, except for some unusual back pain.
So, we're just waiting!
Of course, around here, waiting doesn't mean inactivity. Oh no... not with London Josiah! If you ever wanted to see what just three minutes of entertaining our cute little gremlin is like, check out this video we shot tonight.
Went to the doctor Monday afternoon, only to discover that Liberty is bobbing up and down in the womb, making predicting her birth extremely difficult. (Apparently this is normal for second-borns.) Since Savannah's prelabor episode Saturday morning, all's been pretty quiet, except for some unusual back pain.
So, we're just waiting!
Of course, around here, waiting doesn't mean inactivity. Oh no... not with London Josiah! If you ever wanted to see what just three minutes of entertaining our cute little gremlin is like, check out this video we shot tonight.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
It's (almost) TIME!
We had a close call early this morning.
After a night of joining the coupon cult, Savannah peacefully went to bed -- only to wake up in the 2 o'clock hour with horrendous tummy pains.
She woke me (Marcus) up and I kept track of how far apart the contractions were. I was amazed (and excited) to find that they lasted two to three minutes long, and were about five minutes apart. (For those of you who don't know, you're supposed to call the hospital when they're just ONE minute long and five minutes apart.)
We hadn't even loaded the car yet, so I did that while Savannah talked to the doctor and just tried to relax. We were finally ready, and as Savannah was about to get in the car, she ... well, got sick. Poor baby.
But immediately, the contractions stopped, a sign that labor is near, but not quite here. We were advised by the hospital to take London to my parents' house and then see if labor symptoms came back. They didn't, so somewhere around 4 in the morning, we all tried to get to sleep (although London was up and at 'em).
Now, we just wait. This tummy's like a ticking time bomb of loveliness!
We'll keep you posted...
After a night of joining the coupon cult, Savannah peacefully went to bed -- only to wake up in the 2 o'clock hour with horrendous tummy pains.
She woke me (Marcus) up and I kept track of how far apart the contractions were. I was amazed (and excited) to find that they lasted two to three minutes long, and were about five minutes apart. (For those of you who don't know, you're supposed to call the hospital when they're just ONE minute long and five minutes apart.)
We hadn't even loaded the car yet, so I did that while Savannah talked to the doctor and just tried to relax. We were finally ready, and as Savannah was about to get in the car, she ... well, got sick. Poor baby.
But immediately, the contractions stopped, a sign that labor is near, but not quite here. We were advised by the hospital to take London to my parents' house and then see if labor symptoms came back. They didn't, so somewhere around 4 in the morning, we all tried to get to sleep (although London was up and at 'em).
Now, we just wait. This tummy's like a ticking time bomb of loveliness!
We'll keep you posted...
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Liberty: Any day now!
Well, Liberty is on her way!
See the countdown clock in the upper right hand corner? It says how long until Liberty's due date, Feb. 7.
Well, she's probably not going to wait that long. Doc says Savannah's probably going to go early, and by the looks of things, I'm guessing that our girl's going to be here within a WEEK!
Check out these signs of imminent labor. Savannah's got all of these but the water breaking.
Even as I type this Wednesday night, Savannah's having some short contractions within a decent amount of time. We're really excited, but not 100 percent prepared (as in, totally packed with a complete birth plan...)!
London, still, is unaware that his fancy-free days of only-childdom are coming to an end. Today he blew me a kiss when I asked him to over the phone. He's been playing with an old stethoscope (Dr. London) and is learning new words every day. On this video below, he even says "I don't know" for the first time.
Enjoy!
See the countdown clock in the upper right hand corner? It says how long until Liberty's due date, Feb. 7.
Well, she's probably not going to wait that long. Doc says Savannah's probably going to go early, and by the looks of things, I'm guessing that our girl's going to be here within a WEEK!
Check out these signs of imminent labor. Savannah's got all of these but the water breaking.
Even as I type this Wednesday night, Savannah's having some short contractions within a decent amount of time. We're really excited, but not 100 percent prepared (as in, totally packed with a complete birth plan...)!
London, still, is unaware that his fancy-free days of only-childdom are coming to an end. Today he blew me a kiss when I asked him to over the phone. He's been playing with an old stethoscope (Dr. London) and is learning new words every day. On this video below, he even says "I don't know" for the first time.
Enjoy!
Monday, January 19, 2009
What happens at Grandma's, stays at Grandma's, apparently.
Well, our first night away without London went off without a hitch. Savannah and I (Marcus) enjoyed a fantastic time at McMenamins Edgefield, watching "Madagascar 2" in the theater pub, playing rousing games of UNO and table shuffleboard, and listening to the wild wind whip through the trees.
Meanwhile, London, Grandma Nomi and Grandpa Steve played games, ran around and chowed down. London also went to sleep without a problem and visited Great-Grandma and Grandpa Hurt at their house.
That's about all we know.
Grandma Nomi and London repeatedly said, "What happens at Grandma's STAYS at Grandma's..." and from the looks of this video, London is keeping pretty tight-lipped! :-)
Meanwhile, London, Grandma Nomi and Grandpa Steve played games, ran around and chowed down. London also went to sleep without a problem and visited Great-Grandma and Grandpa Hurt at their house.
That's about all we know.
Grandma Nomi and London repeatedly said, "What happens at Grandma's STAYS at Grandma's..." and from the looks of this video, London is keeping pretty tight-lipped! :-)
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Come on Best Friend, let's go!!!
So, 2 years ago at Christmas, Marcus' parents very sweetly gave us a gave us a gift card to the McMENAMINS to stay at one of their hotels. Whether it was misplaced or we just didn't have time, we never used it.
We were going to use it at the Grand Lodge in Forest Grove tonight -- that is, until the management told us the room was going to be in the basement, next to the bar that is hoppin' until 2:30 a.m. So instead, we're going to use it Sunday night at Edgefield -- much closer to home.
I (Savannah) am extremely excited and a little nervous to leave young London (not because it's with his Grandparents, just because it is scary the first time ). At this location they have soaking pools in heated gardens, a movie theater and much more. We will have to take full advantage of this and try everything!
Marcus is so fun during new adventures. He is willing to drop the bags at the room and explore all our options. He considers what would be nice for the prego, which is so considerate. Since our honeymoon, we have an ongoing motto of NO REGRETS! So even if we barely sleep (which is pretty standard for me these days) we will have BLAST no matter what.
~ Now Liberty just needs to chill until we get home!
For your viewing enjoyment, here is a video of when London took some of his very first steps at Grandma and Grandpa Dunn's house in Vancouver during Thanksgiving:
We were going to use it at the Grand Lodge in Forest Grove tonight -- that is, until the management told us the room was going to be in the basement, next to the bar that is hoppin' until 2:30 a.m. So instead, we're going to use it Sunday night at Edgefield -- much closer to home.
I (Savannah) am extremely excited and a little nervous to leave young London (not because it's with his Grandparents, just because it is scary the first time ). At this location they have soaking pools in heated gardens, a movie theater and much more. We will have to take full advantage of this and try everything!
Marcus is so fun during new adventures. He is willing to drop the bags at the room and explore all our options. He considers what would be nice for the prego, which is so considerate. Since our honeymoon, we have an ongoing motto of NO REGRETS! So even if we barely sleep (which is pretty standard for me these days) we will have BLAST no matter what.
~ Now Liberty just needs to chill until we get home!
For your viewing enjoyment, here is a video of when London took some of his very first steps at Grandma and Grandpa Dunn's house in Vancouver during Thanksgiving:
Friday, January 16, 2009
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Three weeks to go!
We had our 36/37-week appointment for Liberty today, and all's looking well. The doc (a midwife, really) says she weighs about 6 lbs, 12 ounces (and maybe as heavy as 7 lbs)! Now, keep in mind, London weighed 7 lbs, 10.8 ounces! Savannah's body is getting ready, too, although not as fast as it was first time around. But it's all good -- the doc says her body will catch up easily once labor starts -- which really could be ANY day! Holy cow!
London was a happy handful at the clinic today, and daddy had to take him into the lobby to play with an inflated rubber glove that made a nice makeshift balloon/soccer ball. It was hilarious to watch the little man run after the glove, fall on it, grab it, and lose it -- only to repeat the process indefinitely.
He also has been quite the flirt this week. He tends to single out ladies who work in the food service industry. The quickest way to a man's heart must be through his stomach indeed, because London makes eyebrows at these ladies and screams at them until they pay attention to him. Then he grins and coos and pours on the charm. Where did he learn this!?
Mom and Dad are going to have a night alone this weekend, which also gives Grandma Nomi a test drive for when they watch London during Liberty's birth. It should be a fun, learning experience for all.
That's it for now! Love ya!
London was a happy handful at the clinic today, and daddy had to take him into the lobby to play with an inflated rubber glove that made a nice makeshift balloon/soccer ball. It was hilarious to watch the little man run after the glove, fall on it, grab it, and lose it -- only to repeat the process indefinitely.
He also has been quite the flirt this week. He tends to single out ladies who work in the food service industry. The quickest way to a man's heart must be through his stomach indeed, because London makes eyebrows at these ladies and screams at them until they pay attention to him. Then he grins and coos and pours on the charm. Where did he learn this!?
Mom and Dad are going to have a night alone this weekend, which also gives Grandma Nomi a test drive for when they watch London during Liberty's birth. It should be a fun, learning experience for all.
That's it for now! Love ya!
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
The many faces of London
Here... check out this fun video we made with our new webcam. Lots of fun features!
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Clatskanie, ho!
Well, we made it back from the Coast in one piece. We bypassed the treachery of Highway 26 and instead took the longer, safer route via Highway 30 from Astoria to Longview, Wash. It was a fairly uneventful drive, that is until we stopped at the tourist HUB known as Clatskanie! I've taken the liberty of giving you a link to hotels in the area.
Man, if you haven't been, you're missing out. We couldn't help but stop at this amazing store. It was a combination Mini-Mart, video (as in cassettes!) rental store, and Radio Shack! We saw a woman browsing the digital answering machines right new to the cooler full of "tall boy" beer cans! Ha ha, Fred Meyer! You're not the one-stop shopping leader AFTER ALL!
That was about the highlight of the trip back. London did get a toy of a little punk rocker kid in a McDonald's happy meal (that Savannah ate, not London). You push the toy's mohawk and it makes a bizarre noise that sounds like an electric guitar shorting out.
Man, if you haven't been, you're missing out. We couldn't help but stop at this amazing store. It was a combination Mini-Mart, video (as in cassettes!) rental store, and Radio Shack! We saw a woman browsing the digital answering machines right new to the cooler full of "tall boy" beer cans! Ha ha, Fred Meyer! You're not the one-stop shopping leader AFTER ALL!
That was about the highlight of the trip back. London did get a toy of a little punk rocker kid in a McDonald's happy meal (that Savannah ate, not London). You push the toy's mohawk and it makes a bizarre noise that sounds like an electric guitar shorting out.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Only the most appropriate vacation spot!
Hello, friends! Well, in honor of the fact that our daughter, Miss Liberty Haven Hathcock, is due to enter this world in a short 5 weeks, we did a Google search for her name. And, in doing so, we found a place to vacation one of these days: Liberty Haven Ranch in Morristown, AZ!Home, home on the range! We can stay there for just under $100 a night (if we're there during the off-season, May through September). There's a lot of outdoorsy stuff to do, but most astoundingly of all, it's close to -- get this -- the London Bridge in Lake Havasu!
London and Liberty in one place? You've got to be kidding! Giddyup!
A house, a mouse and the New Year
Happy New Year!We had quite the New Year! We didn't have any plans for the holiday until Dec. 26, when Marcus asked his friend from Manzanita if his beach house was available for New Year's. It was, and so we planned to bring a few friends and have a relaxing weekend at the house. Yay!
Well, just hours before we were to leave New Year's Eve our friends started dropping like flies. It was bizarre, really, but we were determined to have fun regardless!
New Year's Eve was fun. We snacked on horrifically unhealthy foods, toasted with Martinelli's and cranberry wine and watched the glowing ball... no really, there was some kind of glowing ball thingy hanging up here that looked a bit like the Times Square ball. (see picture)
London missed midnight (thankfully), but Mar and Sav
celebrated with Dick Clark and Ryan Seacrest and a whole bunch of other Hollywood types. That was great! We also played Uno and Last Word (if you haven't heard of that game, check it out).Well, we quickly discovered that we weren't alone in the home, after all. Savannah discovered little mousey poops scattered around the house. That was gross enough, but we had no idea when or how long the mouse had been at the house.
The weather was insane! The New Year's festivities on TV were interrupted by a weather bulletin informing us that the Coast was bracing for a big storm, accompanied by hurricane-force winds and flooding! Yippee! New Year's night brought some exciting wind and rain, that's for sure!
But waking up on Jan. 2 was the most exciting of all! Savannah had gotten out of bed in the early morning hours and was watching TV on the couch, when something caught her eye in her peripheral vision.
She quickly discovered a little mousey friend, who had leaped from the couch (where she was laying) onto the coffee table in front of her. Somehow she didn't SCREAM, but quickly got Marcus, who was sleeping in the bedroom.Marcus then tiptoed around like a ballerina, with a bat in his hand and feeling like the scene from "Ratatouille" could happen at any moment, where the roof comes crashing down and a thousand little mice run around. Gross!
We had decided we were going to leave a little early, but then that crappy weather we had seen on TV seemed to keep that from happening. Multiple highways
were closed, and others were snow- and ice-covered. It would have been OK, except we only had one tire chain, since it was a casualty in the big "Arctic Blast" of 08.Now, at 7:17 p.m. Jan. 2, we're sitting at the computer, checking our Facebooks and email, and hoping we can catch that mouse before he cooks us a souffle.
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