HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
Jane Cooks
1 day ago
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Brooklynn Vyera is here!!
Brooklynn Vyera
Born Dec 24th 4:06pm
3lbs 0oz
16.5 inches
We love you Baby Brooklynn
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
60 days!
Ok so I can do this! Only 60 days. It goes by really fast if I don't think about it.
So I finally finish Book 4 of Work and the Glory! It's such a good book. I give Shaun updates on the book every day he comes home. It's all a can do for him since he doesn't have time to read them himself. It's amazing what people went through at that time. Alot of death but alot of life. Why did they endure and never give up? Nathan, one of the Steed men, explained it to his brother Joshua. Joshua was there for Haun's Mill and actually sacrified his life for his mother, sisters and ex-wife. They were just about to be taken advantage of by some of the Missourian Militia. Joshua intervened, killing one of the three men. Shortly afterward the two men shot Joshua in the back leaving him for dead. Nathan asked Joshua why he did it? It was because of love. Nathan proceeded to share his testimony of God's sacrific of his son. Then the Saviors life sacrifice for us so we can overcome all this devastation tormoil in life and find true happiness. That's why they never gave up.
So I don't have anything to complain about. Yes my back aches alittle, I gag on all the water I need to drink daily, and I can do nothing but lay here. I am greatful for my husband and his opportunity to serve. Before I was put on bed rest he would always ask how he could help. What could he do better? I honestly couldn't think of anything. I did laundry on wednesdays so we had more time together on saturday. He made lunch for me two times a week. We shared other duties like cooking and cleaning. He says that in a way, he thinks the Lord was preparing him for this. Shaun wanted to help so he got his wish. He finds so much joy in it. At first I thought it would be such a burden on him. But not at all. He loves doing it. Shaun is an amazing example to me of optimism.
I'll admitt this is a very humbling experience. All I hear anymore is "Go lay down!", "How much water have you drank today", "I love you Solnechka!", etc.
Our home teacher came over yesterday and while talking, we found out that Comcast basic cable is not the expensive. Shaun looked into it today and found it to be true. It's $25 to hook up and $10 a month for your first year. I read alot and play on the computer but I think it would be nice to see what's happening in the world around me. We can also watch Conference and other church broadcasts that we miss out on. Well we don't really miss out but we can watch them at home. Oh and count down for the new year! So Shaun and I have given in the basic cable and it should be set up on friday between 10-12noon.
The relief society has also asked what they can do to help. I told them we were alright but they were insistant. Once a week, usually wednesday, they are bring dinner over for us.
Lastnight I had someone at my door, which kinda scared me, but it was a friend from the ward bringing us a plate of cookies. The Everretts while probably have their twins around the same time we have Brooklynn.
Last monday was enrichment. The relief society went caroling to members of the 7th ward and decided to stop by here as well. I was in not ready for them to come over at the moment so I let them ring the doorbell and knock a few times. Finally I decided to open the door. They sang a song and asked to come in. Oh I was embarressed but they lifted my heavy spirit and had a nice visit. They were also shocked to see how clean the apartment was. That made me feel good too. I couldn't do it without Shaun.
So I finally finish Book 4 of Work and the Glory! It's such a good book. I give Shaun updates on the book every day he comes home. It's all a can do for him since he doesn't have time to read them himself. It's amazing what people went through at that time. Alot of death but alot of life. Why did they endure and never give up? Nathan, one of the Steed men, explained it to his brother Joshua. Joshua was there for Haun's Mill and actually sacrified his life for his mother, sisters and ex-wife. They were just about to be taken advantage of by some of the Missourian Militia. Joshua intervened, killing one of the three men. Shortly afterward the two men shot Joshua in the back leaving him for dead. Nathan asked Joshua why he did it? It was because of love. Nathan proceeded to share his testimony of God's sacrific of his son. Then the Saviors life sacrifice for us so we can overcome all this devastation tormoil in life and find true happiness. That's why they never gave up.
So I don't have anything to complain about. Yes my back aches alittle, I gag on all the water I need to drink daily, and I can do nothing but lay here. I am greatful for my husband and his opportunity to serve. Before I was put on bed rest he would always ask how he could help. What could he do better? I honestly couldn't think of anything. I did laundry on wednesdays so we had more time together on saturday. He made lunch for me two times a week. We shared other duties like cooking and cleaning. He says that in a way, he thinks the Lord was preparing him for this. Shaun wanted to help so he got his wish. He finds so much joy in it. At first I thought it would be such a burden on him. But not at all. He loves doing it. Shaun is an amazing example to me of optimism.
I'll admitt this is a very humbling experience. All I hear anymore is "Go lay down!", "How much water have you drank today", "I love you Solnechka!", etc.
Our home teacher came over yesterday and while talking, we found out that Comcast basic cable is not the expensive. Shaun looked into it today and found it to be true. It's $25 to hook up and $10 a month for your first year. I read alot and play on the computer but I think it would be nice to see what's happening in the world around me. We can also watch Conference and other church broadcasts that we miss out on. Well we don't really miss out but we can watch them at home. Oh and count down for the new year! So Shaun and I have given in the basic cable and it should be set up on friday between 10-12noon.
The relief society has also asked what they can do to help. I told them we were alright but they were insistant. Once a week, usually wednesday, they are bring dinner over for us.
Lastnight I had someone at my door, which kinda scared me, but it was a friend from the ward bringing us a plate of cookies. The Everretts while probably have their twins around the same time we have Brooklynn.
Last monday was enrichment. The relief society went caroling to members of the 7th ward and decided to stop by here as well. I was in not ready for them to come over at the moment so I let them ring the doorbell and knock a few times. Finally I decided to open the door. They sang a song and asked to come in. Oh I was embarressed but they lifted my heavy spirit and had a nice visit. They were also shocked to see how clean the apartment was. That made me feel good too. I couldn't do it without Shaun.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Brock and Marie Wedding
By the way, I don't actually have preeclampsia but we are trying to aviod me getting it. The doctor is worried about my face and hands getting swollen mixed with a headache and blurred vision. That's when I would have it. The only way to stop it from becoming a problem after that is to give birth to Brooklynn. My swelling is down from the wedding but I could get better with more rest and water.
Shaun and I were able to attend the sealing of Brock and Marie. I was feeling well so we stayed. I took some pictures but I forgot to charge the battery. That's ok we had alot of fun. I'll post a few later.
The sealing was at 9:40am in the middle of a snow storm. Shaun and I stayed in Brigham friday night with his parents and left with them at 6:45am to Salt Lake, just missing the storm. Mom and Dad had to be there at 8:30am so Shaun and I made a quick stop to my Grandma Barlows to give her some baby shower thank you cards and pick up Shaun's stocking she made for him. It turned out really well. I love it. After the sealing, I was pretty swollen but we headed out to take pictures and wait for the bride and groom to come out of the temple. I was so happy to be there. After a large family picture and an Elegante picture, we were back in the car. I put my feet up for the first time that day for an hour and should have drank more water.
Finally lunch was at 1pm from Costa Vida. Salty food and I don't mix lately. ( I was swollen and still am from the lunch.) I promise I rested as much as possible. After another hour we went to Nolan and Bri's place until 4:45pm. The signs were covered with snow so it was hard to find the right street. Finally we got there at 5pm for more pictures of the family.
The reception was from 6-8pm. The cake was beautiful. I just happen to be there when Marie's aunt? was telling everyone that it was the second cake she has ever made. The carrot cake inside of it was amazing by the way. I shared a peice with Shaun but ended up eating half of another peice.
I was able to drink about 40 oz of water that day but not enough. I stayed inside while everyone else went out to decorate the car with wrapping paper, bows and candy canes. Siena, my five year old neice asked for the boquet but I think Tara, Shaun's 20 year old sister, wanted to catch it. She was one of a very few single girls there. Siena was able to keep the flowers from the temple pictures but Marie had me bring home and dry her actual boquet and Brock's butenner. (sorry can't spell)
At about 8:45pm, Brock and Marie said goodbye to the famliy and were off on their adventure together. While in the temple after the sealing, Brock was so full. He was so extremely happy! Normally he teases and doesn't allow me to call him my brother. He gave me a hug and thanked me for coming and sincerely asked how I was feeling. . . . . .
Shaun and I decided it was good enough weather to go home that night. After his 7:30am meeting Shaun came back for another hour to sleep then headed off to another meeting. I finally decided to be up at 10am to get ready for sacrament. I am not going to be able to go to the full three hours of church until Brooklynn is born. I really should not have stay all day like a did for the wedding. I was not a happy camper Sunday morning. I was so swollen and miserable I didn't know if I was even going to sit in the chapel just for sacrament and leave like we planned. Well I made it and today I'm resting as much as possible. I'm still alittle swollen but not like I was yesterday. Water and rest are now my two best friends. The only time I got up yesterday, besides the odvious, was to visit with my visiting teachers. I curled up in my rocking chair and had a nice chat.
Today Shaun and I watched borrowed DVD's of CSI and most of Sweet Home Alabama. He works everyday from 2:30-11pm.
Crystal
Shaun and I were able to attend the sealing of Brock and Marie. I was feeling well so we stayed. I took some pictures but I forgot to charge the battery. That's ok we had alot of fun. I'll post a few later.
The sealing was at 9:40am in the middle of a snow storm. Shaun and I stayed in Brigham friday night with his parents and left with them at 6:45am to Salt Lake, just missing the storm. Mom and Dad had to be there at 8:30am so Shaun and I made a quick stop to my Grandma Barlows to give her some baby shower thank you cards and pick up Shaun's stocking she made for him. It turned out really well. I love it. After the sealing, I was pretty swollen but we headed out to take pictures and wait for the bride and groom to come out of the temple. I was so happy to be there. After a large family picture and an Elegante picture, we were back in the car. I put my feet up for the first time that day for an hour and should have drank more water.
Finally lunch was at 1pm from Costa Vida. Salty food and I don't mix lately. ( I was swollen and still am from the lunch.) I promise I rested as much as possible. After another hour we went to Nolan and Bri's place until 4:45pm. The signs were covered with snow so it was hard to find the right street. Finally we got there at 5pm for more pictures of the family.
The reception was from 6-8pm. The cake was beautiful. I just happen to be there when Marie's aunt? was telling everyone that it was the second cake she has ever made. The carrot cake inside of it was amazing by the way. I shared a peice with Shaun but ended up eating half of another peice.
I was able to drink about 40 oz of water that day but not enough. I stayed inside while everyone else went out to decorate the car with wrapping paper, bows and candy canes. Siena, my five year old neice asked for the boquet but I think Tara, Shaun's 20 year old sister, wanted to catch it. She was one of a very few single girls there. Siena was able to keep the flowers from the temple pictures but Marie had me bring home and dry her actual boquet and Brock's butenner. (sorry can't spell)
At about 8:45pm, Brock and Marie said goodbye to the famliy and were off on their adventure together. While in the temple after the sealing, Brock was so full. He was so extremely happy! Normally he teases and doesn't allow me to call him my brother. He gave me a hug and thanked me for coming and sincerely asked how I was feeling. . . . . .
Shaun and I decided it was good enough weather to go home that night. After his 7:30am meeting Shaun came back for another hour to sleep then headed off to another meeting. I finally decided to be up at 10am to get ready for sacrament. I am not going to be able to go to the full three hours of church until Brooklynn is born. I really should not have stay all day like a did for the wedding. I was not a happy camper Sunday morning. I was so swollen and miserable I didn't know if I was even going to sit in the chapel just for sacrament and leave like we planned. Well I made it and today I'm resting as much as possible. I'm still alittle swollen but not like I was yesterday. Water and rest are now my two best friends. The only time I got up yesterday, besides the odvious, was to visit with my visiting teachers. I curled up in my rocking chair and had a nice chat.
Today Shaun and I watched borrowed DVD's of CSI and most of Sweet Home Alabama. He works everyday from 2:30-11pm.
Crystal
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Finals
This semester I have four finals and a speech to complete. Shaun has five finals. What's crazy is that Shaun's finals began on monday and ended wednesday at 11:20am. Mine began wednesday at 11:30am and will end about 10:30am tomorrow (friday). This week has been a time for studying.
I took a final today for two hours and came home swollen. It made me nervous but it has gone away with rest and alot of water. Tomorrow will be interesting since I have two finals in a row. That's atleast three hours off this couch, let alone my doctors appointment afterwards. Who knows what time we will get home. Shaun and I then plan to watch movies all day.
I was reading the Conference edition of the Ensign tonight for personal study. There's a talk about temples from this years general relief society conference. I realized tonight that I won't be able to go for a really really long time. Yes, I am still planning on attending Brock and Marie's sealing but I want to actually serve in the temple. My heart aches alittle for enterance and service. The last time Shaun and I went was on my birthday almost three weeks ago. It's such a beautiful place. There is so much peace within those walls. Will the doctor ok for me to go? Will I be able to attend with a nursing infant? I have heard of couples taking turns each week while the other stays home with their children.
Anyway, I am so proud of my mom. She has set a goal and is making things happen. I love her so much. She is a great example to me of strength. I love to talk to her. You can tell how she just wants to get out there and get moving but time is holding her back. Mom, hang tough!
Want to know something else that I think is cool. The first few days laying here, I was getting really tired of it because my back was getting sore. Well I said a silent prayer, almost like a quick thought, that I wouldn't suffer from back pain during the next two months and just that second, my back pain went away. I told Shaun about it and he has also prayed for the same thing. I still marvel over the little everyday miracles. So really I could lay here forever until this little girl is strong enough to be born into this crazy world and come home with us. Shaun also asked to help me be optimistic being layed out on the couch. Is it working?
Here is another miracle, Shaun has tuition reimbursement from work!! This is only for next semesters tuition.
Ok well this was a break from studying so, back to work!
Crystal
I took a final today for two hours and came home swollen. It made me nervous but it has gone away with rest and alot of water. Tomorrow will be interesting since I have two finals in a row. That's atleast three hours off this couch, let alone my doctors appointment afterwards. Who knows what time we will get home. Shaun and I then plan to watch movies all day.
I was reading the Conference edition of the Ensign tonight for personal study. There's a talk about temples from this years general relief society conference. I realized tonight that I won't be able to go for a really really long time. Yes, I am still planning on attending Brock and Marie's sealing but I want to actually serve in the temple. My heart aches alittle for enterance and service. The last time Shaun and I went was on my birthday almost three weeks ago. It's such a beautiful place. There is so much peace within those walls. Will the doctor ok for me to go? Will I be able to attend with a nursing infant? I have heard of couples taking turns each week while the other stays home with their children.
Anyway, I am so proud of my mom. She has set a goal and is making things happen. I love her so much. She is a great example to me of strength. I love to talk to her. You can tell how she just wants to get out there and get moving but time is holding her back. Mom, hang tough!
Want to know something else that I think is cool. The first few days laying here, I was getting really tired of it because my back was getting sore. Well I said a silent prayer, almost like a quick thought, that I wouldn't suffer from back pain during the next two months and just that second, my back pain went away. I told Shaun about it and he has also prayed for the same thing. I still marvel over the little everyday miracles. So really I could lay here forever until this little girl is strong enough to be born into this crazy world and come home with us. Shaun also asked to help me be optimistic being layed out on the couch. Is it working?
Here is another miracle, Shaun has tuition reimbursement from work!! This is only for next semesters tuition.
Ok well this was a break from studying so, back to work!
Crystal
Monday, December 8, 2008
Bed Rest and Service
Last Tuesday, I called my doctor because I was getting really swollen. My church shoes didn’t fit but any worse, my regular shoes wouldn’t either. They ran some test and my doctor told me not to go to work and stay off my feet but come in the next day. Wednesday after school, I went to my scheduled appointment and found that I was not even supposed to go to school that day. Oops. I wasn’t sure what was going on and he explained that I was being tested for preeclampsia.
What is that? What’s crazy is that BabyCenter.com has had a lot of information of this topic and I was concerned. www.everydayhealth.com says, “Preeclampsia is a condition that occurs only during pregnancy, after the 20th week. A woman with preeclampsia develops high blood pressure and protein in the urine, and she often has swelling (edema) of the legs, hands, face or entire body. When preeclampsia becomes severe, it can cause dangerous complications for the mother and the fetus. One of these complications is eclampsia, the name for seizures or coma that are caused by severe preeclampsia.” Further down this website lists conditions which increase the chance that a woman will develop preeclampsia and eclampsia. Three of them which refer to me include chronic (long lasting) high blood pressure, first pregnancy, and having a sister, mother or daughter who has had preeclampsia or high blood pressure in pregnancy.
In the past this disease was called toxemia. My mother had it and almost died. Every time the nurses check my blood pressure, their eyes get really big and say, let’s check that again. Shaun and I asked him to teach us a little about blood pressure and what the numbers mean. The top number is the left side of your heart, the bottom number is the right side. For non-pregnant women, your top number should not be over 120. For pregnant women 140 is high. Mine is way over that. I range from 150-158 each visit. My bottom number is high as well. 80 is the high for pregnant women. I was 99 my last visit.
So I have been told to say off my feet, resting in bed until who knows when. I was tested again in Thursday and the doctor said he’d call me if he’s concerned. He didn’t call so I’m on my living room couch possibly until February. It’s sad that I have to miss out on some really important events like Brock and Marie’s wedding. I am going to the sealing if I have to be put in a wheel chair. I’ll stand for a few minutes for pictures but I don’t think we will be at the reception.
This is so worth it for my baby Brooklynn. Like I said, my goal is to bring her home from the hospital healthy! Meanwhile, I am catered to by my wonderful husband. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) Don't worry I can get up to use the facilities and shower.
Crystal
What is that? What’s crazy is that BabyCenter.com has had a lot of information of this topic and I was concerned. www.everydayhealth.com says, “Preeclampsia is a condition that occurs only during pregnancy, after the 20th week. A woman with preeclampsia develops high blood pressure and protein in the urine, and she often has swelling (edema) of the legs, hands, face or entire body. When preeclampsia becomes severe, it can cause dangerous complications for the mother and the fetus. One of these complications is eclampsia, the name for seizures or coma that are caused by severe preeclampsia.” Further down this website lists conditions which increase the chance that a woman will develop preeclampsia and eclampsia. Three of them which refer to me include chronic (long lasting) high blood pressure, first pregnancy, and having a sister, mother or daughter who has had preeclampsia or high blood pressure in pregnancy.
In the past this disease was called toxemia. My mother had it and almost died. Every time the nurses check my blood pressure, their eyes get really big and say, let’s check that again. Shaun and I asked him to teach us a little about blood pressure and what the numbers mean. The top number is the left side of your heart, the bottom number is the right side. For non-pregnant women, your top number should not be over 120. For pregnant women 140 is high. Mine is way over that. I range from 150-158 each visit. My bottom number is high as well. 80 is the high for pregnant women. I was 99 my last visit.
So I have been told to say off my feet, resting in bed until who knows when. I was tested again in Thursday and the doctor said he’d call me if he’s concerned. He didn’t call so I’m on my living room couch possibly until February. It’s sad that I have to miss out on some really important events like Brock and Marie’s wedding. I am going to the sealing if I have to be put in a wheel chair. I’ll stand for a few minutes for pictures but I don’t think we will be at the reception.
This is so worth it for my baby Brooklynn. Like I said, my goal is to bring her home from the hospital healthy! Meanwhile, I am catered to by my wonderful husband. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) Don't worry I can get up to use the facilities and shower.
Crystal
Service
So I thought I lost this post. It's going to repeat some of what I just posted.
My husband is so wonderful. He has been doing all dishes and cooking all three meals. This will mostly last until February. We hope. I have been put on bed rest and told I can take my finals with caution. If I have a head ache with blurred vision I am to go to labor and delivery immediately. Kind of scary stuff. Brooklynn has grown enough now that the doctor said not to worry. I still worry though. I had a cousin born this early and it broke my heart to see him laying in the hospital for months. My goal is to bring this baby girl home with us.
Yesterday I cheated and went to Bronen's baby blessing in Salt Lake. I put my feet up and layed back in the seat. As long as my feet are up, I don't swell. I am also determined to attend Brock and Marie sealing this weekend. Marie's two hours endowment session was way to long so we had to skip out on that. I can last about 45minutes to and hour without putting my feet up.
Shaun is so worried. It is so wonderful to have someone care about and love you so much. Yes, my man is sensitive. I love him! I caught him starring at our pictures framed over the desk from our honeymoon. He is so excited to be a daddy.
By the way, if you haven't already, you need to go see my sisters blog. (Merrill Family) Matt left to Iraq Saturday so they had Christmas 20 days early with their 16 month old daughter. It's so fun to see her face light up as she figures out how to open her presents. I LOVE YOU GUYS!
Since I can't make comments for some reason on people's blogs, Jennie and Chris congratulations on the birth of your daughter. I hope Laura and I can come for a short visit soon.
Well time to study!
My husband is so wonderful. He has been doing all dishes and cooking all three meals. This will mostly last until February. We hope. I have been put on bed rest and told I can take my finals with caution. If I have a head ache with blurred vision I am to go to labor and delivery immediately. Kind of scary stuff. Brooklynn has grown enough now that the doctor said not to worry. I still worry though. I had a cousin born this early and it broke my heart to see him laying in the hospital for months. My goal is to bring this baby girl home with us.
Yesterday I cheated and went to Bronen's baby blessing in Salt Lake. I put my feet up and layed back in the seat. As long as my feet are up, I don't swell. I am also determined to attend Brock and Marie sealing this weekend. Marie's two hours endowment session was way to long so we had to skip out on that. I can last about 45minutes to and hour without putting my feet up.
Shaun is so worried. It is so wonderful to have someone care about and love you so much. Yes, my man is sensitive. I love him! I caught him starring at our pictures framed over the desk from our honeymoon. He is so excited to be a daddy.
By the way, if you haven't already, you need to go see my sisters blog. (Merrill Family) Matt left to Iraq Saturday so they had Christmas 20 days early with their 16 month old daughter. It's so fun to see her face light up as she figures out how to open her presents. I LOVE YOU GUYS!
Since I can't make comments for some reason on people's blogs, Jennie and Chris congratulations on the birth of your daughter. I hope Laura and I can come for a short visit soon.
Well time to study!
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Thanksgiving Weekends
Matt, Mandy and baby Grace were in Utah for a couple of weeks but not able to stay for turkey day so we decided to have two! Shaun loved that idea. Plus it was nice to see the family and spend some time with Matt before he leaves this Saturday for 12 to 18 months. I was surprised to see myself bawling as we left them at the airport check in point. I really love my family.
It was so much fun to see how much baby Grace has grown up. I wasn't able to take pictures since Shaun and I didn't have a camera yet. Kim's kids had a blast following her around Grandma and Rexy's house listening to her giggle and jabber up a storm.
Wednesday, the day before Thanksgiving, we stayed the night at Shaun's parents house in Brigham City. Tara, Brock, Marie, Nolan, Bri and Bronen also visited that night. It was fun to see everyone. Brock and Marie will be married Dec 13. I found that Bronen likes to sit on my lap and have someone move his legs as if he were running in place. He gave me the biggest smile! All the siblings love to go down to the basement and play around the world ping pong. I opted out in fear of running into the table with my tummy.
Thanksgiving morning we ate breakfast, showered and played a few games as Tate, Shalisa, Jarom, Desarae, Tom, Christine, and Siena came over that morning. Tate brought Rock Band and Tom brought is WII playstation. Christine is finally fashioning a tiny baby bump. They are expecting their baby boy in the beginning of March.
Shaun and I arrived at my Grandma Barlow's around 2pm then drove to Aunt Diana and Uncle Bruce's house for our Thanksgiving dinner. Who was there? Bruce, Diana, Diana's son, his wife and 4 kids, Aunt Marsha, Grandma Barlow, Rexy, Mom, Misite, Shaun and I. We have a tradition of putting a puzzle together and singing Christmas carols between dinner, socializing, cleaning up and eating dessert.
Rexy drove us home just in time to go see my Dad and Lydia for a few minutes. It was a nice visit to catch up and for Morgan to show us a cool science project from school. Since we are not in Salt Lake that much, Lydia was also able to show us a few things she bought for Brooklynn. She is already loved so much!
Friday at 6 am, Shaun and I went to Staples to purchase a camera and a free Canon photo printer! Since paper and ink would be to expensive for us, we won't be using the printer so we gave that to his parents. I was able to take a few pictures of a baby shower Momma Woods and Grandma Barlow threw for me saturday. We had a small get together and enjoyed visiting with mom's side of the family and a light lunch. Thanks you for the gifts! Thank you Thank you.
Shaun and I made a trip to Target to purchase I few needed items just in time to come back and see the lights with Mom, Grandma, Mistie and Gabby. It was kind of strange to have it so warm this year and not as many trees were lit up. It was nice to get out and celebrate a little Christmas with the family before Shaun and I made our trip back up to Logan that night.
Just as a side note, I'm not sure how I am feeling, uncomfortable? Friday morning I woke up really swollen. Especially my face since I looked like a cabbage patch doll. My ankles and hands were swollen the entire week before. Yesterday I called the doctor. After a few tests to check for preclampsia also known as toxemia, I'm ok so far but I was told to stay home and off my feet. I told my supervisor and called Shaun just in time for him to come get me before he went into work. Seven hours later, it was nice to see that I had ankles for the first time in atleast a week.
Today, I went back to the doctor. He was shocked to find that I went to school this morning. I didn't realize he meant no school either. I convinced him to allow me to finish my classes since there is only a week and a half left. I have one class and a group project meeting tomorrow and two classes friday. Next week I don't have finals until wednesday but I finish friday around 10:15am. He said ok but he was really close to putting he on complete bed rest. He gave me a prescription to lower my blood pressure and wants me to come back for more testing friday.
It was so much fun to see how much baby Grace has grown up. I wasn't able to take pictures since Shaun and I didn't have a camera yet. Kim's kids had a blast following her around Grandma and Rexy's house listening to her giggle and jabber up a storm.
Wednesday, the day before Thanksgiving, we stayed the night at Shaun's parents house in Brigham City. Tara, Brock, Marie, Nolan, Bri and Bronen also visited that night. It was fun to see everyone. Brock and Marie will be married Dec 13. I found that Bronen likes to sit on my lap and have someone move his legs as if he were running in place. He gave me the biggest smile! All the siblings love to go down to the basement and play around the world ping pong. I opted out in fear of running into the table with my tummy.
Thanksgiving morning we ate breakfast, showered and played a few games as Tate, Shalisa, Jarom, Desarae, Tom, Christine, and Siena came over that morning. Tate brought Rock Band and Tom brought is WII playstation. Christine is finally fashioning a tiny baby bump. They are expecting their baby boy in the beginning of March.
Shaun and I arrived at my Grandma Barlow's around 2pm then drove to Aunt Diana and Uncle Bruce's house for our Thanksgiving dinner. Who was there? Bruce, Diana, Diana's son, his wife and 4 kids, Aunt Marsha, Grandma Barlow, Rexy, Mom, Misite, Shaun and I. We have a tradition of putting a puzzle together and singing Christmas carols between dinner, socializing, cleaning up and eating dessert.
Rexy drove us home just in time to go see my Dad and Lydia for a few minutes. It was a nice visit to catch up and for Morgan to show us a cool science project from school. Since we are not in Salt Lake that much, Lydia was also able to show us a few things she bought for Brooklynn. She is already loved so much!
Friday at 6 am, Shaun and I went to Staples to purchase a camera and a free Canon photo printer! Since paper and ink would be to expensive for us, we won't be using the printer so we gave that to his parents. I was able to take a few pictures of a baby shower Momma Woods and Grandma Barlow threw for me saturday. We had a small get together and enjoyed visiting with mom's side of the family and a light lunch. Thanks you for the gifts! Thank you Thank you.
Shaun and I made a trip to Target to purchase I few needed items just in time to come back and see the lights with Mom, Grandma, Mistie and Gabby. It was kind of strange to have it so warm this year and not as many trees were lit up. It was nice to get out and celebrate a little Christmas with the family before Shaun and I made our trip back up to Logan that night.
Just as a side note, I'm not sure how I am feeling, uncomfortable? Friday morning I woke up really swollen. Especially my face since I looked like a cabbage patch doll. My ankles and hands were swollen the entire week before. Yesterday I called the doctor. After a few tests to check for preclampsia also known as toxemia, I'm ok so far but I was told to stay home and off my feet. I told my supervisor and called Shaun just in time for him to come get me before he went into work. Seven hours later, it was nice to see that I had ankles for the first time in atleast a week.
Today, I went back to the doctor. He was shocked to find that I went to school this morning. I didn't realize he meant no school either. I convinced him to allow me to finish my classes since there is only a week and a half left. I have one class and a group project meeting tomorrow and two classes friday. Next week I don't have finals until wednesday but I finish friday around 10:15am. He said ok but he was really close to putting he on complete bed rest. He gave me a prescription to lower my blood pressure and wants me to come back for more testing friday.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
The Hand of the Lord
This past weekend was such a wonderful experience. I always look forward to weekends because I can spend time with Shaun. I love him so much. Last saturday was my 26th birthday and Shaun took me to the Bountiful Temple. The last time we were in this particular temple was 6 months ago on our wedding day. As I looked across the sealing office room, I saw two sealers sitting next to each other. One of them looked very familiar named Brother Howard. I realized he was the man who sealed Shaun and I back in May. I let him know who we were and of the special occasion. He was also called to be the sealer for our session. The room has so bright and full of peace. As I looked into Shaun's eyes as each family was sealed together, my testimony of the sacredness of the temple was strengthened. Not only were Shaun and I sealed together 6 months ago but our little Brooklynn and her siblings were sealed to us as an eternal family. I was also sealed to his family that day.
Another miracle happened that day. Shaun and I were able to shop for Christmas and other things for three hours before we met up with some family for dinner at the Manderin. My Dad, Lydia, Grandma and Grandpa Morgan, Tammy and Allision ate with us. (Tammy is Lydia's brother, Scotty's wife and Allison is my brother Jared's girlfriend). Shaun shopping for three hours wasn't the miracle. I have a public speaking class which includes a lab of 12 people. We were split into two groups friday and have to put a speech together with no class time to talk about it. If anyone has tried to put a presentation together with six people and their busy schedules, they would understand how daunting this task would be. Keep in mind, yes we have two weeks but this is over Thanksgiving break and other major projects due in other classes. All of my group but one student, Anthony, was there that day. I didn't know anything but his first name and what he looked like. It was really important that I got ahold of him that weekend. I said alittle prayer and looked for him at the USU basketball game that night. (We won by they way!) But no luck finding Anthony. I felt like everything would work out somehow so I forgot about it. Well the last place Shaun and I were at was Kohl's in Bountiful. After relaxing in massage chairs, Shaun and I were on our way out of the store when out of the corner of my eye I see this guy on his phone who looked up at me and smiled. I knew him! I realized that this was the guy I was looking for. After he finished his phone call, I told him the information he needed and also was able to tell him how amazing it was to find him all the way down here. It was so random but I knew it was an answer to prayer.
Small miracles like this happen every day but I wanted to share some of them with you. I am not sure why but I know there is reason for everything. There is no such thing as luck but little miracles the Lord puts in our path to make things more exciting. These examples were miracles that have relieved alot of stress and brought alot of peace to my life. I am looking forward to a miracle in about three months. My beautiful daughter will be born into this world soon. Shaun and I are so excited to share the miracle of life with her. We love you Brooklynn. Having a baby with a low pain tolerance level and a fear of shots will be a miracle in itself.
Crystal
Another miracle happened that day. Shaun and I were able to shop for Christmas and other things for three hours before we met up with some family for dinner at the Manderin. My Dad, Lydia, Grandma and Grandpa Morgan, Tammy and Allision ate with us. (Tammy is Lydia's brother, Scotty's wife and Allison is my brother Jared's girlfriend). Shaun shopping for three hours wasn't the miracle. I have a public speaking class which includes a lab of 12 people. We were split into two groups friday and have to put a speech together with no class time to talk about it. If anyone has tried to put a presentation together with six people and their busy schedules, they would understand how daunting this task would be. Keep in mind, yes we have two weeks but this is over Thanksgiving break and other major projects due in other classes. All of my group but one student, Anthony, was there that day. I didn't know anything but his first name and what he looked like. It was really important that I got ahold of him that weekend. I said alittle prayer and looked for him at the USU basketball game that night. (We won by they way!) But no luck finding Anthony. I felt like everything would work out somehow so I forgot about it. Well the last place Shaun and I were at was Kohl's in Bountiful. After relaxing in massage chairs, Shaun and I were on our way out of the store when out of the corner of my eye I see this guy on his phone who looked up at me and smiled. I knew him! I realized that this was the guy I was looking for. After he finished his phone call, I told him the information he needed and also was able to tell him how amazing it was to find him all the way down here. It was so random but I knew it was an answer to prayer.
Small miracles like this happen every day but I wanted to share some of them with you. I am not sure why but I know there is reason for everything. There is no such thing as luck but little miracles the Lord puts in our path to make things more exciting. These examples were miracles that have relieved alot of stress and brought alot of peace to my life. I am looking forward to a miracle in about three months. My beautiful daughter will be born into this world soon. Shaun and I are so excited to share the miracle of life with her. We love you Brooklynn. Having a baby with a low pain tolerance level and a fear of shots will be a miracle in itself.
Crystal
Monday, November 10, 2008
Early Birthday Celebration
Saturday, all of the Elegante's took me and my neice out to dinner for our birthdays. Desarea is going to be one on the 25th and I will be 26 on the 15th. We ate at The Pie Pizzaria in Ogden and opened gifts. Desarea got a shirt and a baby doll. For each member of the older family members, everyone pitches in for a gift and Shaun was able to find a rocking chair at Wal-Mart for about $130.00! So I was way excited when I opened a babies first book and a note indicating a rocking chair as well. THANK YOU!! I really want to be able to rock my baby and read her stories. I love it! I will have to post a picture later.
I was also able to see Mandy, Matt and Grace that night. Shaun and I were so tired but I was so happy to be able to see and spend some time with them for a few minutes. Gracie was having a hard time getting to sleep and ended up coming back upstairs to say hi. It took her awhile to warm up. She's so dang cute! She would start laughing and playing but then would make eye contact with either me or Shaun and just stare at us. I decided to tickle her and grab her baby hands and finally she opened up alittle when it was time to leave. I tried getting on my hands and knees to peek around the corner at her but all she did was cry and run towards her momma. Matty will be leaving soon to Iraq. I pray for their little family every night that all will be well with them.
Shaun and I also decided to celebrate Sunday and have a roast with potatoes, carrots, peppers, and onions. It was great to come home to a wonderful smelling apartment after Laura, my visiting teaching companion, and I visited with Sarah and Jennie. Jennie is also expecting her baby girl Kate in 9 days. Congrates Jennie! Sarah's baby girl will be one on the 13th. Happy Birthday to her! November is a good month for birthdays and celebrations. I'm looking forward to the next 7 or so weekends.
Just as a side note, Shaun and I have had a hard time getting the air in our apartment to keep us warm. Luckily we have great landlords and they were able to fix it for us will we were gone this weekend. It's so nice to wake up to a warm home and not freeze to death. It was 59 degrees saturday morning but now it's a constent 70-72 degrees!
Another side note: Brooklynn has really popped out this weekend and I am beginning to swell alittle. I noticed my ankles were swolen while visiting Jennie. My tailbone has beens swore for about a week and my energy level has gone down. It was really really hard to get out of bed this morning. I think I fell asleep about 7 times today. Just picture me at a computer "doing research" with my hand holding up my cheek with my mouth open wide for a few minutes or me sitting on a couch and out for the count 2-3 minutes at a time while attempting to stay for a quiz which might as well be a test since it's Dr. Lown's class. I also have two other tests to study for! I am amazed how Shaun does it. He too has a rigorous schedule but also works twice as much as I do. When you put her mind to it, you can do anything!!
This weekend is my birthday. Shaun has planned for us to go to the Bountiful Temple and an indoor prarrie restraunt in Ogden. My dad just called today and wants to take us out to dinner. Since my weekends seem to be so full I think saturday is our only bet. So we'll most likely have dinner with them.
Next weekend is the 22nd and we are having Thanksgiving dinner at Grandma Barlow's with Matt, Mandy, Grace, Momma Woods, Grandma, Rex?, and possibly others. The weekend after is Thanksgiving. Shaun will be taking as much time as he can hunting with his brothers outside of eating dinner with the family as I will probably be shopping with Mom. Mistie will be hereThanksgiving weekend but Matt and Mandy have to go back home to Texas.
Dec. 6th is the next saturday and Marie, Brock's fiance is taking out her endowments in the Bountiful Temple. (I might have to work that evening.) The next saturday is their wedding. The weekend after that is Christmas. Then new years weekend. I think we are planning on going to St. George to visit my dad's parents for a fews days. Then it's back to school for Shaun! I won't be attending school but planning for Baby Brooklynn's arrival in February.
BUSY BUSY BUSY! Well It's 9:30pm and I can finally get my car out of the Terrace Parking Lot so I'm outta here!! SEE YA
I was also able to see Mandy, Matt and Grace that night. Shaun and I were so tired but I was so happy to be able to see and spend some time with them for a few minutes. Gracie was having a hard time getting to sleep and ended up coming back upstairs to say hi. It took her awhile to warm up. She's so dang cute! She would start laughing and playing but then would make eye contact with either me or Shaun and just stare at us. I decided to tickle her and grab her baby hands and finally she opened up alittle when it was time to leave. I tried getting on my hands and knees to peek around the corner at her but all she did was cry and run towards her momma. Matty will be leaving soon to Iraq. I pray for their little family every night that all will be well with them.
Shaun and I also decided to celebrate Sunday and have a roast with potatoes, carrots, peppers, and onions. It was great to come home to a wonderful smelling apartment after Laura, my visiting teaching companion, and I visited with Sarah and Jennie. Jennie is also expecting her baby girl Kate in 9 days. Congrates Jennie! Sarah's baby girl will be one on the 13th. Happy Birthday to her! November is a good month for birthdays and celebrations. I'm looking forward to the next 7 or so weekends.
Just as a side note, Shaun and I have had a hard time getting the air in our apartment to keep us warm. Luckily we have great landlords and they were able to fix it for us will we were gone this weekend. It's so nice to wake up to a warm home and not freeze to death. It was 59 degrees saturday morning but now it's a constent 70-72 degrees!
Another side note: Brooklynn has really popped out this weekend and I am beginning to swell alittle. I noticed my ankles were swolen while visiting Jennie. My tailbone has beens swore for about a week and my energy level has gone down. It was really really hard to get out of bed this morning. I think I fell asleep about 7 times today. Just picture me at a computer "doing research" with my hand holding up my cheek with my mouth open wide for a few minutes or me sitting on a couch and out for the count 2-3 minutes at a time while attempting to stay for a quiz which might as well be a test since it's Dr. Lown's class. I also have two other tests to study for! I am amazed how Shaun does it. He too has a rigorous schedule but also works twice as much as I do. When you put her mind to it, you can do anything!!
This weekend is my birthday. Shaun has planned for us to go to the Bountiful Temple and an indoor prarrie restraunt in Ogden. My dad just called today and wants to take us out to dinner. Since my weekends seem to be so full I think saturday is our only bet. So we'll most likely have dinner with them.
Next weekend is the 22nd and we are having Thanksgiving dinner at Grandma Barlow's with Matt, Mandy, Grace, Momma Woods, Grandma, Rex?, and possibly others. The weekend after is Thanksgiving. Shaun will be taking as much time as he can hunting with his brothers outside of eating dinner with the family as I will probably be shopping with Mom. Mistie will be hereThanksgiving weekend but Matt and Mandy have to go back home to Texas.
Dec. 6th is the next saturday and Marie, Brock's fiance is taking out her endowments in the Bountiful Temple. (I might have to work that evening.) The next saturday is their wedding. The weekend after that is Christmas. Then new years weekend. I think we are planning on going to St. George to visit my dad's parents for a fews days. Then it's back to school for Shaun! I won't be attending school but planning for Baby Brooklynn's arrival in February.
BUSY BUSY BUSY! Well It's 9:30pm and I can finally get my car out of the Terrace Parking Lot so I'm outta here!! SEE YA
Monday, October 27, 2008
Brock and Marie Dec 13, 2008
Shaun's twin brother is going to be married at the end of the semester!HALLOWEEN!!
We were also able to carve pumpkins! There is one for each member of the family. Shaun had another idea after we bought the pumpkins to put a small pumpkin inside of mine for Brooklynn. Shaun's pumpkin looks like he is winking at me. I'm blushing with a smile and looking the other way. Our baby is just laughing.This weekend we......
put Brooklynn's crib together. THANKS Momma Woods! In the process, Shaun and I ended up moving our bedroom around to accommodate her crib. I still can't believe it all fits in there.
Shaun was also able to add a few inches to the bottom of our coach so the airvent would not be cut off.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Baby Brooklynn Vyera
So it is offically a girl!
Here is her whole body!
The last two are 3D showing her
face and the bottom half as she
stretches!
Do you see her little bum, legs and feet?
She has her feet stretched out to the top
left corner.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
