Thanksgiving

I got discharged from the hospital on Thanksgiving afternoon just in time to feed Ben, get the kids ready for dinner, and off to my parent's house. It was difficult waiting in the hospital for my walking orders but it all paid off. Dinner was specatular, especially after hospital food and it was wonderful to think that Ben's first minutes at home were with family giving thanks for all we have. This year I feel especially thankful that we were given the gift of Benjamin. He is wonderful in all ways possible.

Meeting the Family

Playing with Uncle Steve and cousin Mason. Mason was jealous that Steve was holding him. Too cute. Don't worry Mason, you are still my favorite nephew. I love you! (Adrienne, did you get a picture of Ben and yourself?)

Hanging out with his Pops.

A snuggle with Grams. (Sorry, Mom, I didn't get any pictures of you and Dad with him at the hospital.)

Meeting Olivia.

Meeting Papa Joe.

Meeting Nana.

Meeting Jacob .

6 Days Old Already!

Welcome Benjamin Porter!

Here he is! 6lbs. 12 oz (or, two newborn Jakes). 20 inches long.

Jake's first snuggle with Benny

Better get used to lots of attention from your big sister!

Ballet

This is an old video of one of Olivia's dance recitals. She loves getting in her pink leotard and skirt and she dances up a storm. We are on a little break now for the holidays but will start up again in January. Olivia thinks she would like to play t-ball in the early spring so dance may disappear for awhile. I always wanted to take dance lessons, but they were so expensive. Maybe she will follow after me and become a tomboy. It may be hard not to with so many men in our family now.

BK Update

I am almost completely thinned now but we didn't check dialation today. Tomorrow will be my last day of work. The doctor said it is just a waiting game now. We will keep you all updated.

Ditto Last Week

I saw the doctor yesterday afternoon and nothing has changed. We are still on for Dec. 4 (9:30 am). I'm not dialated at all, but my cervix is starting to thin. I guess it is a start. The baby has changed to a heads down position not that it makes any difference. I am horribly uncomfortable and getting crankier by the minute. I swear people I don't even know are out to annoy me. If I get a say in any of this (which I know I don't) I would like the baby to arrive this Sunday. It would be cool for the baby to share a birthday with his uncle. Jacob's birthday is on my Grandma Peters' birthday and Olivia is just one day away from Aunt Adrienne. It would be very special if each of my kids got to share their special day with another very special person.

Status Quo

I saw the doctor yesterday and my blood pressure is back up but she said she wasn't too concerned. My doctor also told me to try to keep my feet up even at work. She obviously has never taught 10th graders. I see her again next week.

The Wonder Duo

Here they are, the Wonder Duo soon to be the Wonder Trio. We trick-or-treated back in the old neighborhood on Via Marlin between rain showers and by the time we were done going around the block both kids were yawning and ready for bed. For those of you who know old Herb from Via Marlin, his house looks so different now with the new owners who by the way gave out multiple handfuls of candy as they were trying to close up for the night. The kids really scored. Olivia thought Halloween in kindergarten was pretty cool and Jacob was Jacob. He didn't eat anything at his class party because he ate too much at lunch and didn't want to ruin trick-or-treating. Sometimes I think he is a little old man trapped in a 7 year olds body. Did I mention that Jacob is very upset that he has to be 18 years old to vote? He thinks this is totally unfair. I told him to write to his senator, but instead he has settled for going to the polls with Josh to help him fill out his ballot. Perhaps another history teacher in the making?