bloggy blog.

What a day! We are living in a winter wonderland!!! Add to the hassle of packing two kids up in general...now think digging car out of two feet of snow---scraping windshields, bundling up two boys...stomping through the two feet on snow to get them to the car--life just got a little more challenging. God's sense of humor is starting to take its toll on me quick ;)

IT IS SO FUN TO SEE ARCHER AND HOLDEN'S RELATIONSHIP BLOSSOM! It's wonderful to see a side of Archer that really loves and cares about his sweet baby brother (even though Holden offers absolutely nothing in return at this point). Today Holden woke up and was fussing and I had a few more dishes to wash..the second he woke up Archer ran to his room, threw open the door, and started yelling, "mommy Holden is awake mommy" "mommy he is sad sad sad" "MOMMY HOLDEN IS CRYING MOMMY"...he was so put off by me not responding immediately. He then proceeded to climb into his crib and was saying, "its ok baby brother, mommy is coming baby brother, here take your pacifier holdie." What a sweetheart!!! There are still moments where he requests that I put baby brother down and give him a hug, but overall he seems to be enjoying him! This evening they were laying on the changing table together looking at the mobile and Archer was telling him what color the various fish were...super sweet. Also, as I was unloading groceries today Archer brought about 10 balls over to Holden in his bouncy seat and was telling him what the different balls were for...I instantly envisioned the two of them playing together in a random yard at our future house and my heart melted!

What else, Colin and Archer had a blast tonight! The thing about lots of snow outside if either you bundle up and enjoy it...or you wrestle/combat cabin fever! Colin said, "this kid just gets better everyday."

Last thing because it's 9:30pm and Colin is watching Intervention without me..oh, two more things...actually..THREE. My favorite thing Archie says right now is "my sure do mommy." If asked if he would like to do something that is usually how he responds. Number two, Archer's sense of humor is picking up..tonight I was asking what he wanted for dinner and he said, "mmmm..a pillow mommy..." and then died laughing, and we went back and forth for what seemed like forever saying silly things we were going ot eat for dinner and laughing hysterically! Third, tonight while I was nursing Holden he would stop and just start talking---he is such a sweet boy (when he wants to be).

Oh, Holden's 8 week checkup today-12lbs 14oz. 21.5 inches long! She said, "your milk must be pure cream" I'm not sure how or why, but for some reason that feels good (not that there is a thing I do to make it happen..I suppose because nursing isn't always the easiest option it feels good to know it's growing a little guy).

Wish us luck tonight, we have decided to break Archer's habit of waking in the middle of the night for a bottle--WE NEED SLEEP!!! Last night Holden slept from 9:30-1am, but the power went out (noise machine off) and Archer woke up from 11:30-12:30...YIKES!!!!

Ok, Holden is awake?!?!

Night.

must blog..must blog...

All day I have literally been walking around in somewhat of a daze...Holden does not like sleep. It's that simple, wait, he does, but only in my arms snuggled up next to me! While it was sweet and easy, I really enjoy hanging out with Colin at the end of the day...I really love putting the boys to bed around 8 and having time to play cards, watch a movie, be a couple. Therefore, I have decided to stop putting Holden in bed with us at night. You see, we are currently living in a very cozy two bedroom apartment--which I LOVE-but would love for Holden to have his own room...not our room. Do you know how hard it is to sit up and nurse him IN MY BED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT?!?!? The whole problem started just like that and now here we are...

ARCHER...let's talk about sweet Archer. He is an absolute joy. He loves his brother, LOVES his brother! Evil is horrible, and on occasion I watch my sweet boy suddenly get this look on his face and then decide to do something terrible or misbehave somehow. Yesterday he was standing by me while I had Holden laying on my lap when I saw his little wheel turn and the look come over him like, "ah ha...watch this!" He then went to hit Holden and for some reason I remained calm. Attempt one, attempt two (Colin is sitting on the couch and just said, "babe I just love our boys so much") let me be more specific...little chubby arm up-a look at me like here it goes, chubby arm down towards baby brother and STOP...he tried 4 times and couldn't do it! I was AMAZED. He genuinely loves this little guy of ours and cannot stand the thought of hurting him, even when he really wants to!!! That my friends is love in a two year old form!

Other than that, Archie talks nonstop and is saying the most amazing things. One of my favorite new expressions, "no thank you please." There are soooo many different ideas about "how to parent" and really Archer was the easiest kid until he hit 22 months. Therefore, parenting has taken on a new role. Archer is still super sweet and spends him time in the church nursery passing toys around to kids and being so loving (I know this because I still haven't let him in the nursery...I'm the annoying mom that just sits by). Part of the reason I sit tight is because I really want to give him immediate consequences if he mistreats someone. I'm not ready to let him get away with being ugly to other kids without knowing that isn't how we treat people and he isn't going to get away with it---call me overbearing (which I wholeheartedly admit I am) but I just have a tough time seeing that side of kids. Blah blah blah, SO-there was a point of mentioning all of this! Tonight Archer went to play with our sweet one year old nephew Crew. Crew and Archer see each other at least once everyday...since May. They sort of act more like siblings at this point! Archer and Crew were playing and Archer discovered his "bee's" soccer ball. He was super excited and enjoying it when Crew crawled over and said "please." Lots of different philosophies on sharing/making kids share, etc. The rule for us (and we were 6 strong) was that you didn't have to share, but not to expect people to share in return--which makes sense! We have tried to tell Archer though, if someone asks you nicely if they can have a turn then you let them have a turn! It's a great feeling to make someone happy by letting them enjoy the same thing you enjoy! Of course, Archer was not in the mood to share today..Crew said please, Archie replied by saying "it's Archie's baby Crew" in a really sweet/innocent/I'm not giving this up voice. SHUCKS! I reminded Archer that Crew asked nicely and if he wasn't going to share then we would go home---no reason to be in someone else's company if you're not going to enjoy it...Archer said, ok...and left. SHUCKS! We got back to our apt and he wanted me to play soccer ball with him--I said no, he hadn't wanted to share so he could enjoy not sharing and play by himself. He kicked his ball around for awhile and then said, "sorry baby Crew, mommy give Crew a turn please." AHHHHHH...HORRAY!!!!! I love that boy. Quickly we went back and he lowered his little self to Crew's level, apologized, and handed over the ball..they then got to enjoy the JOY of sharing something with someone and played back and forth for a moment.

OH MY! Time to enjoy my husband--who finally convinced Holden it was bedtime!

I will update more frequently...I need to to remember moments because with two they seem to pass quick!!!

Love,
The Kimbles.

oh my...

this is an all time low in my blogging. The problem is...our laptop was out of commission for months and I am way too lazy to type a blog post from my iphone!

Since the last post of course a ton has changed including the birth of our sweet son Holden G Kimble! Let us start there so I never forget the details:

It started the night before my due date even though I was terribly unaware! I woke up several times to go to the bathroom--would wipe--leave the bathroom and suddenly question whether or not I had wiped...a strange feeling. Needless to say the wondering kept me up most of the night and then onto September 14th (my due date). Everything was going as it usually did--busy mom...busy toddler boy. It was around 3pm and I went to the bathroom only to realize that indeed-my water had broke! I let my midwife know-she said I could stick around home and attempt to get labor to start on its own. I went into instant nesting mode making sure everything was in line for Archer while we would be away...and then making sure everything was ready for the hospital. I called Colin and he said he had to work for another hour or two (they had rented some equipment) and then he would be home--funny how different things are with the second baby!

When my sister and brother in law came to get Archie (lucky duck got to go to the Utah State Fair) I get fairly emotional! Not only do I never seperate from my little guy---I knew this was the final parting before we were 4--and I also knew that he sort of had no idea what was going to happen/how things would change! I had never been away from Archer for the night (minus work..). I then moped around a bit before remembering I needed to get labor going! I started to pump and do various things---but not much was happening. Colin came home, cooked dinner, we both showered and continued trying to get labor going--it was pouring outside so no walking. Neeedless to say, but 9:30 nothing had happened so my midwife ask that we go in and start some pit. not to mention I was strep positive this time so she wanted to start antibiotics.

We got to the hospital and I was still fearing the pit. We started to walk and started our first dose of antibiotics and sure enough contractions started up!! They were manageable but more intense somehow than I remember them (funny how that works). HOURS went by this way and they decided to check me around 5am...low and behold 100% effaced but only a lousy 3 centimeters. I pretty much lost it at that point. They started pit and I flashed back to my 32 hour long labor with Archer. It didn't help that Archer was sick the night before and I hadn't slept much between sick him and wondering if my water broke. I was exhausted and preparing mentally for a 32 hour labor. The pit hurt like hell, I was tired, I wanted saved---I finally decided I had nothing to prove to anyone (self included) and at 6am asked for an epidural. My midwife was called and said she was on her way. They filled up the bath with water and told me to get in...I refused. Midwife came--before she spoke I said "Don't try to talk me out of this, I have already made up my mind." She smiled, confirmed the obvious that I was getting ahead of myself as far as how long this labor would be, but that she wanted me to be happy with the outcome and if that's what it would take--ok!

Around 7am the epidural arrived---sort of. The MD told me that it could take anywhere from 20-40 minutes for relief to take place or the "full effect" to be felt. Of course, at 7:30am I was sure by 8am I would feel better. NO LUCK! 8am came, 8:30..and the pain was only getting worse! Finally I told Colin someone needed to get in there because this was not an ok way for someone to feel!!!! I was still convinced I was 3cm and going to have to suffer or get another epidural! I remember while it was being "put in" he seemed to be having a tough time---sure enough! With Archie when I got my epidural it was heavenly!!!! I told Colin if I could get one on the streets I would--he replied--but you can't move your legs...to which I replied-I KNOW IT'S THAT GREAT!

So the nurse comes in, says--OH! Time to have the baby! 15 minutes of pushing and at 9:33am (Archer was born at 9:27am) Colin pulled a slimy little BABY BOY out and placed him on my chest! I sat there for at least an hour SHOCKED/STUNNED that Jubilee was actually a boy!!!! 7lbs. 10oz. 21.5 inches long and as hairy headed as they come!!!

The next 2 days were perfect. A sweet retreat (this hospital was pretty much a resort-the food fresh from a local organic farm...a menu in the room where you called down when you wanted food and they awnswered "room service"). Our days were spent with Colin getting Archie and bringing him up until nap-then Colin would take him home and put him down, then pick him up when he woke up, and take him home to play, bath, bed. It was sort of tough on Colin to do the back and forth-but I really think Archer enjoyed being there with us and being a part of the process. He was thrilled to come pick his baby brother up and take him home!!! We spent most of our time agonizing over names!!!! Colin had a few that he stuck by,but in the end it came down to Jesse or Huck. I have always, since the 8th grade when I read The Catcher in the Rye, LOVED the name Holden. It was also a small town off of the interstate between Colin's parents and our house in Baton Rouge...I couldn't let it go. Finally I just told Colin that...and he said ok! I quickly filled out the birth certificate application and we were FREE!!!

Holden Guy Keith Kimble. Holden, a name I love. Guy, an affectionate name I made up/called my mom's 2nd husband Tim who was my step father for 12 years. Keith after Colin's dad. I love this bundle!!!

Ok, must go to bed...will write more later, but feels good to get that part out there!!!

Love the incredibly sleep deprived but beyond happy and blessed Kimbles!

oh my...

This blog needs a facelift!!!!!

I'd like to say I cannot believe it's been nearly two months since updating the blog, but that would be a downright lie---of course I can believe it!

Archer and I have been having the most delightful summer! He is the best kid to be around and I love how Colin and i are constantly saying to each other "we have the best kid." It's an incredible feeling to hear your husband say often "I really love Archer, or I love Archer to death..or he is awesome."

The past month and a half our days have mostly been about waking up, eating breakfast with daddy before he leaves for work, doing our "morning chores" and then heading out to the park or somewhere nearby to play until lunch time. Come home, eat lunch, and then we have been snuggling up TOGETHER for a nap! Terrible habit but soooo wonderful-and totally take the guilt of of getting nothing else done but holding my sweet boy close. After nap we generally head out for another fun activity---the zoo, the farm, etc. Archer is incredibly well behaved and makes most outings a pretty easy time...

oh man, I have to get him dressed for story time...I will attempt to pick up later pending baby #2 due in 5 days doesn't stop me (OH PLEASE BABY STOP ME)


1

baby on da brain...

It is absolutely crazy how time can either drag or FLY! Colin and I were remarking a few weeks ago that it feels like I have been pregnant forever! The second time around isn't filled with all of the emotions you go through the first time--not to mention the period you spend simply trying to wrap your mind around the fact that you are indeed pregnant! The second time that sinks in pretty quick--and really you spend the time just excited...which when waiting anxiously for something 9 months is quite some time!!! In that time, for example, we have moved across the nation....

Needless to say, this morning I woke up and realized that there is the month of August that we can go ahead and say is safe/no baby coming, and then on to September where the final preparations/waiting begins. NUTS! I have one more month with just my sweet baby boy and I before we will work together to grow up another one!!!

In other news, we have a "follow-up" ultrasound on Monday. While getting our 20 week ultrasound the tech continuously went back to the heart and when I asked her about it she said because of the babies position she was having a hard time visualizing the outflow of the heart. Needless to say...I worried for a bit and sort of forgot to worry. Last night Colin and I were watching tv and there was a baby born with an undiagnosed congenital heart defect...it was horrible and devastating and reminded me of the inconclusive findings...THEREFORE, we are going to go on Monday just to be sure everything is ok---especially since the amazing hospital here we are delivering at doesn't have a NICU should something go awry.

ok, archer is up!!

-jenn

It's a shame indeed...

Ok: top picture is belly with Archie, bottom picture is belly with baby #2.


I am terrible at blogging. Rest assured, I do keep a journal for Archer and new babe, plus a very handsome baby book for each---but STILL, I need to stay on top of this! I think I avoid blogging mostly because every time I sit down to blog too much has changed and I must face the reality that my baby boy is actually starting to become quite the big boy!

Archer is the best. I think every night after we put him to bed Colin says, "I just love our kid so much," or "our kid is honestly the best." And he is! He is a joy, and sweet and super duper silly! Lately he has started saying "oh my goodness" and "oh my gosh" which is pretty darn funny. He is obsessed with all things boy, jumping, running, falling down, rocks, dirt, sticks, water, SHOVELS..etc. Everywhere we go he must have a "scoop" aka shovel in hand (in case there is something to scoop of course). I'm going to go ahead and say I think it is about 90% nature, 10% nurture at this point! We have the boat here now and Colin has been getting off of work early lately (with three day weekends) so we have been spending lots of time at the beach/lake boating and playing. Archer of course is in HEAVEN with scoops, sand, buckets, and an occasional boat ride!

The baby is a BUSY baby. It is strange too that I am carrying this baby MUCH differently. Now, I haven't jumped to conclusions that this means GIRL...because I know all pregnancies are different, I am simply remarking on the difference. It probably also helps that this baby is currently posterior. Archer's little butt was always pushing up on my ribs and I was terribly round with him, but this time this babe seems much lower. Perhaps in the weeks to come as it runs out of room I will bite my tongue and once again have a little butt pushing up against my ribs!!! Not a whole lot to do for a second baby when you don't know the sex and also plan on moving a month or so after the babe comes. No nursery, no shopping, etc! BUT, I think the second time around having a baby is much more exciting---you know the goodness that comes along with a baby!

Ok, that was just a quick update, I am going to work on blogging more---but I do always say that!!!

-Love the Kimbles

ops...

AND THIS KID IS OBSESSED WITH MONEY..more on that later!

ops..

Two things I forgot to post..and I need to start posting funny things more often now that they are being said...

Last weekend we went to Saturday night church at 7pm. I have been stalling due to the fact Archer has never ever been to the nursery!!!! He watched the nursery kids from the door...and then I sat in there for a good 20 minutes while he wandered and played never once showing any interest in me being there. I decided to give leaving a try and again, unconcerned. There is a double sided window so I stood and watched for a bit and then left. I checked back in in about 15 minutes, he was ok. 15 minutes later I sent Colin--when he wasn't coming back I went to investigate...sweet buddy sitting at the table eating animal crackers and drinking a little cup of water with friends when someone's mom came to the door to get them and suddenly Archie's little face wrinkled up, the tears poured and he started saying, "mommy momma mommy momma" over and over again--30 minutes was a good "trial" and I quickly darted in and scooped up my sweet boy. :)

Also...Archer is into naming the color of EVERYTHING. This morning while letting him "air out" after a diaper change he said, "mama, pee pee, yellow" as in he actually thinks his pee pee is yellow in color...poor kid.

Ok, he is demanding to "see Eliza" so off to facebook for videos we go!

I am predicting..

this blog will soon be interrupted. Archer is still sleeping and it is 9:20am. The funny thing about being a mom is the wave of feelings I have with him sleeping so late...you worry (is everything ok...and peek in to be certain it is), you relax, you obsess over your unborn babe, and then you start feeling guilty for the list of things you could be doing instead of blogging and drinking a cup of joe--truth be told--this is lovely.

Archer is insane...and an adult. Ha, someone asked me how he was the other day and I replied that he just celebrated his 18th birthday and was moving out this weekend..NUTS how quickly they go from being such a sweet helpless baby, to your helpful fit throwing toddler. Archer needs to help with everything I am doing...EVERYTHING-which makes basically nothing a "simple" task--yesterday after "washing the dishes" the entire floor was soaked (easy enough to quickly clean up right???). I agree with my friend Ellen who said now is sort of our time to shine as a parent and to make decisions really really matter for our kids! I owe Archer more patience than I have and more time than any task is worth--and that's being a mom.

Archie is "daddy's buddy" and a self proclaimed "mommy's helper". He has a funny quirk of labeling pretty much everything as belonging to someone. He is sweeeettt...so sweet. He loves to greet everything, "HIIIIII Jonezy" when we get home. Even when leaving the car to run into the store he says, "bye bye car mommy's daddy's." The other day we were at the store and this guy was sort of standing in the middle of the aisle and Archer said in a really sweet voice "beep beep." The guy and I couldn't stop laughing...pretty cute. This time is soooo sacred to me as we await the arrival of number two! Archie has become insanely attached to me--I say have at it! Someday he will break my heart as he journeys away from me and SOMEHOW survives bedtime with his mama ;) This attachment goes from day long requests to "hold you"...and to anytime we are driving in the car he asks "hand...hand please..mamas hand" to which I shove my hand in the back seat and he tucks his sweet little chubby hand into mine--and usually smiles. THIS KID!

Another happening as of late is his persistent response of "NO". I am really working on getting him to say "no thanks" and to use no when asked something that it's ok for him to reply no. Sometimes we resort to the time out seat---which we tell him is taking a break and he actually will sit there no questions asked until he is released! Yesterday was ever so challenging. "Archer let's get your shoes on and go to the park!" "NO"..."You mean no thanks?" "No thanks"..."ok, well let's put your shoes on and go outside and play with the rocks and dirt!" "NO"..."you mean no thanks?" "no thanks." Ok...(insert a million different favorite activities here...all responded to with a sharp "know it all" NO). Hmmm...so fun.

It's also funny to see his language develop--we are shocked daily with his influx of language. He is trying so hard to talk in sentences and sometimes makes a word salad much longer than the simple sentence he was seeking! The other night we put him to bed and he just babbled forever, "Jonezy bark hush good girl, daddy buddy, book mama read it, have it ba ba BIG BIG ba ba (he generally asks for all things BIG BIG), hurt owie, poop...poop..." so I decide to go in there because surely something is up and sure enough he has pooped! We change his diaper and rock a little bit then back to bed...once again "poop, MAMA POOP, POOP!!! BIG BOY POOP." Hmmm...the next night at bedtime the "poop" scheme was tested again.

Ok, time to get buddy up I think. I am DYING to meet this baby and never thought I would be this obsessed!!!! Turns out the second time is 10 times as exciting because there isn't the hesitation about what to expect...well sort of..

Love,
The Kimbles

you know you're pregnant when...

you follow 4 blueberry muffins with half a jar of olives...and pretty much decided it was the best snack ever. (In my defense, the muffins were healthily homemade and small).

Lots of stuff going on this week...and we have continuously been busy. Last night Colin got home at 5:30 which was EARLY for us and we were able to get out of the house as a family, then enjoy BBQ pork sandwiches, coleslaw, and french fries (we take turns every other night with dinner--the in-laws and us...well really Lauren and I and it makes cooking/cleaning dinner a blast).

Today, especially, Archer has been horribly clingy and was really sad about having to take a nap-normally it is a request of his. He would ask to "rock" and then get sleepy and ask for "night night" but when I put him in his bed he would cry and say, "mama night night." Hahah..and he is up and calling--will finish this thought later!

"30 minute lunch break"

I have started giving myself a 30 minute lunch break once Archer goes down for his nap...I had to set a limit for myself or I would honestly never get anything done...

So...

Archer started "pretend" today and it has been amazing, and super fun! He likes to mix/make things (mostly oatmeal and pancakes) and then offer it to me "mommy have it" and I of course take a giant bite and he says "YUMMY." Pretty fun---and super weird. It's so interesting to see him become a little person that is starting to understand the world.

Yesterday we woke up (Sunday is Colin's only day off as of right now) and had a wonderful breakfast with our in laws followed by a long trail walk. There was a fresh stream running all along the trail we were on and Archer took it upon himself to simply walk right into it. Pretty funny, and we let him play in there for a good bit before continuing on. After that we gave him a short nap, I napped (I have declared Sunday as a funday and NO WORK day), and Colin did an hour like mountain bike ride...NUTS. We woke Archer up and headed into Salt Lake City for a Bee's baseball game...WHAT A BLAST. They have a free train for the kids to ride and a playground, not to mention we sat on the lawn. It was a beautiful day and Archer got a snow cone, hot dog, lemonade, etc. After that we came home and had chicken wings and bedtime. Busy day! On the agenda for this week: a local indoor swimming pool with a lazy river and water slides, visiting a farm, two mornings of story time, and an indoor bounce house thing...not to mention hopefully several walks and lots of park playing.

P.S. loving Utah...missing friends (lots of asking for Brody and Eliza for sure). I miss having a friend (esp. Elllen) to chat with/do fun kid stuff with too. If only Louisiana and Utah were closer.

-Ok, lunch break nearing an end...blah.

I always do this...

I am the worst blogger, in fact, was considering just giving it up all together but then decided something is better than nothing AND since I am no longer working perhaps I will have "more time"...even though my life seems to be about 200 times busier!

We are in Utah! It is amazing, AMAZING, amazing here! It is absolutely gorgeous and there is SO...MUCH...TO...DO! Archer and I went to a little park today for lunch and the park included all of his favorite: mud, sticks, rocks, and swings. I am having an absolute BLAST being home all day...I feel wonderfully domestic--from packing Colin's lunches in the morning...to 2 hours of tidying up while Archer naps, banana bread baking, and preparing yummy dinners are the end of the day (anyone who really knows me knows this is pretty much my destiny/dream come true). That being said, it is INTENSE! I am used to a "break" from Archer a couple of nights/week and the way it is going now---it is NONSTOP! Archer has developed a very intense attachment to me---pretty serious, and Colin has been working from about 8-7 (if we are lucky). Therefore, it is all day of Archer entertaining and everything else that a day involves---hopefully once the "busy" part of Colin's job slows down he will be able to be home this summer around 2 or 3pm and we can spend way more time as a family.

Baby Kimble #2 continues to grow..and grow! I need to take another picture because this babe is getting big QUICK! It is crazy how fast this pregnancy is going by...4 months from now we will either have another babe or be waiting for the moment any day. I have serious concerns about this baby being a girl...for the first few months I thought of it as nothing other than a boy. I have a boy, I know a boy---we have clothes, toys, etc and looking back I think how great my older brothers life would have been with a little brother (instead of me as an annoying girly little sister). In my mind, Archer was going to have a little brother. Suddenly I realized, THIS COULD BE A GIRL?!?! Colin thinks I am wildly dramatic in my obsessive thinking about having girl, I'm just not sure I am emotionally prepared! Suppose I will have to be! Also, not sure we are financially prepared for the items that just have to come along with a sweet baby girl. I also think because I am not very "girly" this will perhaps spark something in me--and boy what would it do to Colin?!?!? That being said, we had our 20 week ultrasound and decided not to find out the sex again--so here we go!!!

Archer is insane...and def. reaching the terrible twos! We have some very challenging moments and have started "time out" like situations. It's crazy how willful such a small sweet child can be (sort of upsetting to see him intentionally make me upset). I cant wait to have a newborn and a willful two year old at the same time ;) His talking has taken off!!! He can now say two or three word statements. He counts, "won, twooo, THREE" and he counts pretty much everything with impressive accuracy. Today while we were at the park there were two ducks swimming and I asked him how many ducks there were, he lifted his little hand pointed and said, "won, two...two ducks." I'm not going to say he is a genius directly... :) At the end of the day (and for right now he is only letting mama put him to bed) we have started talking about what we did that day-starting with waking up. It's super fun and we can talk back and forth...I will say "and then we rode in the stroller and where did we go?" he will reply "park, sand, swing, water"...haha, not much for an absolute thought, but it's interesting to hear him recall events from the day and end the statements saying "fun" or "yummy". Pretty neat little guy...and most def. just my BUDDY.

Ok, I have a tremendous list of things I need to get done around here...this is seriously intense! But, I am going to once again say...I am really going to try to update this blog on Fridays (with a new baby coming I just dont want to forget things as they happen).

Love,

The now Utah Kimbles

this blog needs a facelift!!!

Horray sweet baby number two!!! I need to post another picture asap because suddenly there is a baby belly! I am really trying hard to resist the urge to eat not only more than I should, but also resist some of the stuff I shouldn't eat (which I gave myself full permission to not only overeat with Archer, but also eat LOTS of junk). I was miserable at the end of my pregnancy and have decided to see if that is just how it goes for a small from the hip to the ribs lady, or if perhaps 42lbs was a bit much to gain!

The excitement for the second baby is in full swing! I can now feel it moving around often and Colin has been able to feel the baby kick from the outside. Sibling jealously may be taking place ;) Every time I lay down to feel this little babe squirm and wiggle (somehow it just feels more concrete when you can feel it kick against your hand) Archer walks up and sits on my hands...which are attempting to feel the babe...silly boy!

Archer is stinking smart. Today he did several things that made me wonder if I had someone been asleep for the past 11 months (which sometimes isn't far from the truth) because suddenly he has a wealth of knowledge with the ability to use it! He no longer sits in his high chair...he sits at the table with mom and dad. While this means losing the luxury of simply spraying of the high chair tray, it also means seeing a very proud little guy who is very sure he is big. Our sweet full of joy boy...he now exclaims at almost everything which is absolutely adorable! I was showering yesterday and he ran in saying "mama mama mama" so I peeked through the curtain and will hopefully never forget this moment (as trivial as it may seem)-Archer gasped with a giant smile on his face and in either little hand was holding a cell phone (one his one mine) and exclaimed "PHONES". Priceless. If only we could get him that excited about bedtime...or picking up toys. :) Also today we were putting together his little puzzles, which he is an old pro at, and he picked up the yellow circle, said "lellow" put it where it belonged and then said "mama moon." Little things like that just amaze me, little buddy at 18 months is able to recognize a yellow circle as being a "moon" even completely out of context. Flash forward to bath time, and me attempting to multi-task dinner with bath....Archer is a HUGE fan of Elmo---somehow, annoying as it may be, so they sell this organic Elmo mac. We bought a handful once when they were on sale (in the amazing frozen food aisle..) and Archer devoured them at every serving. Unfortunately when they went back to being full price there was no more Elmo mac in the Kimble house. Colin left today (more on that later) so I decided to spare some extra change for the sake of convenience. I opened the package and of course, Archer GASPED. He could hardly bare the 3 minutes it took to make Elmo's meal come to life in the microwave. I got him in the bath, gave him the first bite, and little fat man replied, "thanks Elmo." I was stunned..and impressed, and then shocked when he opted for the entire serving of broccoli and carrots while leaving the rest of the mac!

Colin is gone...my heart sunk typing that! He is only gone for three weeks, but I'm already having a bit of a time. I really, REALLY, really love that man, and I really enjoy having his love for life daily. He left probation last March, so for the past year we have had a couple of months where neither of us worked and then a year with him being home and around nonstop. I miss my best friend, and I'm not giving Archer too long before he really starts to miss his daddy!!! However, business calls and Colin had to go to Utah to get everything ready for the spring (if it ever springs, two days ago they got 20 inches of snow...and it snowed again today).

Ok, so the plan is, work really hard the next few weeks and stay really busy!!! Seeing as I work three night/week, have an 18 month old, am growing him a baby brother or sister, and have an entire house to put into boxes, I'm not sure that will be much of a challenge!!! I want to spend as much time as we possibly can with friends before we go!!!!

OK, I'm going to scoop my little bruiser up from his deep sleep to carry him into bed with mama...just tonight. I really wish it could be for the entire three weeks Colin is gone, BUT Archer is such a good sleeper and I want putting him down to be easy on the people that are going to help put him to bed while I work my final NINE SHIFTS!

Love,
The Kimbles

Such a Blessed of a blessed lady....

I'm sitting here at work, with a second to sort of think (which when you have an 18 month old you don't often get). I started by daydreaming about what I "hope" or feel more inclined to have the sex of this baby be...I guess I was actually day dreaming about what it would be like with either sex. From there I started thinking about what it is like to see your husband in your child. My friend Ellen and I go back and forth about if there is a different way to love your son and daughter and I absolutely think there is. I know that when we have a daughter, or if this particular babe is a girl I will have a new and different kind of love for her, but looking at my little boy and seeing in him the man I love and adore the most is nothing short of perfect. To watch the two of them play around, fix things, and be buddies is insane. This morning I got home from work only to walk in on Colin spooning Archer in our bed...it was close to one of the sweetest sights. The two of them are buddies and I am so excited for their future together (and for me to get a sweet bond with a little girl). Oh yes, tonight right before I had to leave for work Colin left with Archer to rent a movie. Minutes later I was driving down the road towards work when out of the corner of my eye I noticed a tall blond guy with an adorable baby on his shoulders...SWEET!!!

Now the attraction between Colin and Archer wasn't immediate....we have talked about this several times and I think Colin was at a pretty rough time in his life in general (trying to figure out what the heck he was going to do while working a job he didn't really like...and having a babe). When Archer got here I think Colin had some pretty strong thoughts on how attached he would feel from the start...and he was fairly disapointed. From an exhausting 32 labor...to a babe that wanted to nurse pretty much nonstop, there wasn't much fun in having Archer around. (I hope Colin doesn't mind me sharing this...). It didn't take long though, Colin says 4 months, until Colin started to see bits of how glorious being a dad was turning out to be! LONG STORY SHORT...today Archer was throwing a fit...a very, very, very long and very, very, very loud fit. I had a moment where I looked at Colin and thought...this must wear him out! I consider myself to be pretty darn patient and at this point I wanted to lock Archer in the garage and take a nap...but Colin hoisted that sweet little screaming angry boy up on his shoulders and said, "he needs a walk outside with his dada" and off the two of them went, Archer instantly putting his tears away. COLIN IS SUCH AN AMAZING MAN/HUSBAND/DAD.

I feel like this blog has been all over the place...it might have something to do with the fact that I am beyond exhausted...somehow 4 hours of sleep today after working overnight last night and now working tonight just wasn't enough. I am tired and debating a cup of coffee...and simply have tons on my mind. Mostly...I really love my life and I am really thankful for all of the blessings I have received. I live and get to be with the two most amazing men all of the time!

Ps. Colin leaves in about a week to go to Utah until the first weekend in May. Anyone who reads this and wants to spend a night/morning at my house anytime in April...PLEASE FEEL FREE! I rely so heavily on Colin for so many things and this next month is going to be a rude wake up call I'm afraid!!

Ok, I must end this madness...I have no idea what I am typing at this point...

-Love the sleep deprived mama

Swweettt Memories...

Today I was flipping through Archer's pictures, from birth until now....and started sobbing!!!!  I regret having to work, even though I know at the time it was sort of a must do thing...but looking back through the months (9 of them...what do I really have to complain about) that I was home I started to think about out quiet routine and our days filled with nothing other than snuggling, playing, or running errands together...BOY WE HAD IT GOOD!!!!  I think about our second babe only to realize the two of us will never have that special time...and I thank God for Archer and that chance we had to just be buddies all day everyday for nine months.  I also thank God that Colin is about to start a job and at least for the first six months I shouldn't have to work...and if I work after that it will just be PRN somewhere for my own sanity.  I miss lazy days of not a thing but playing.

In other non-depressing news.. haha, I kid, I really did learn an incredible amount working for this past almost year, but I suppose as my year is wrapping up and we are preparing for the move I am filled with excitement to once again be just mom for a bit.  If I could figure out how to land a really cool phone triage job that would be amazing, but if not...than if not!

OK, so the point of this post was to put up a picture of what baby #2 belly looks like at 14.5 weeks...I was waiting to get big early like most people often claim happens...I do think this time it is taking it's time.  Some days the belly seems bigger than others...but for the most part still looks like I either never lost the weight from Archer or I had a really good time partying in college....

Love from the almost UTAH Kimbles.

Ok Christy...

I totally agree with my friend Christy...how dare I stalk so many blogs but fail to ever update my own!!!

The move to Salt Lake is getting super close, but somehow it feels like it is never going to happen. I AM SO READY TO BE DONE WORKING!!! I love my job, I LOVE being a nurse, but before that I love being a mom, and I dont think Archer is selfish (or the next babe in line) to ask for a few years of me being mommy full-time, with a promise to return to nursing...eventually, and who knows perhaps sooner rather than later, but that's a grim outlook!

15 weeks preggo ALREADY. I totally feel guilty for this babe getting second born syndrome already!! I never really think about being pregnant unless I am at work (which means I actually have SOME time to think) or about to go to sleep or wake up and have to pee for the millionth time! I think I love this baby more at this point because I actually know and realize what it will be in the end, but I also spend my days playing/chasing around a very busy 18month old!!! The other night at work we borrowed the ultrasound machine from the ER and I got to watch the little bean open and close its hands and move around like CRAZY! Perhaps Colin and I are going to get what we asked for this time...or at least get a run for our money.

Archer has been sick the last couple of days, high fever. I'm pretty sure he has Roseola...blah, first time for baby boy to be sick, and sick he is!!! He has been getting lots and LOTS of mommy daddy love, and in fact spent the past two nights sleeping with mama and last night with dada...I'm not going to lie...Colin PUSHED me out the door to work (with tears in my eyes) because he was so excited to get the chance to snuggle with Archer all night (if mama is around mama generally wins).

blogging...

I think blogging is a vicious cycle...an extreme love/hate relationship. On one hand I simply love to look back and reflect on all blogged things over the past 1.5 years, but on the other hand it is a dauting task. I feel like I am always trying to convince myself that I need to blog daily (but then the blog suddenly becomes a "blogging daily" kind of blog without much meaning or sentiment) or perhaps nominate Monday to be blogging day...somehow in the time I have been blogging I haven't figured out a reliable timeline that satifies my blogging spirit....

Therefore, perhaps I will add an additional committment to what seems like my giant mound of weekly duties (the mound only recently became overwhelming as the typical pregnancy/working full time nights exhaustion kicked in) and try to blog "weekly" without setting a day...I really do feel like I'm forgetting the simple things that make us laugh and smile from week to week.

This past week Sonia, Kreider, and Silas made the trek from snow laden Philadelphia down to visit...Kris, Ellen, Eliza, Colin, Archer, and I had A BLAST! Good people are everywhere but sometimes there are really good people that simply make your soul sing....the Grasse's are the soul singing kind of people to me (as are the Mecholsky's!!!!). We had an amazing time watching the superbowl, going to the Baton Rouge Zoo, and then through the generousity of Kris and Ellen we stayed with them in their two bedroom time share in New Orleans Monday night. It was really fun to watch Archer and Eliza smooze around together until 10:30pm....so sweet, two little toddling people. They are also really starting to get each other and realize/want the other person there. Kris took Eliza into their room to put her pj's on and she was screaming to Archer (being the prince charming he is) quickly made his way to the bedroom door and opened it freeing his beautiful princess! Tuesday we spent the day going to the Aquarium and preparing for the Saints welcome home parade. We once again had a wonderful time, said good bye to Kris, Ellen, and Eliza who had to return to the working life, and thanks to Sonia we spent the night in their room....

That very night, for the first time in his little pumkin life, we let Archer "cry it out." Archer has never ever had issuses going to bed, and in fact is probably the easiest kid to put to sleep---even sometimes requesting sleep. We simply rock him with his "baba" while singing him a song, once his baba is gone he says, "ni night" gives a hug, kiss, and pat to mom or dad and that is it....and that has really always been it...SUPER EASY KID. HOWEVER, those conditions generally apply only to the confines of our house/his bed! This kid does not like to sleep away from home! After Monday night in the Kris and Ellen's room with Archer tossing and turning all night in bed with me (and Colin getting kicked to the couch because Archer screamed anytime he was put NEAR his pack and play) I was beyond exhausted...not to mention the daily events. Archer also hadn't really had a nap and we knew the following day would be long so we sort of decided we would put him in his pack and play in a quiet room and let him convince himself through tears to sleep...WHAT WERE WE THINKING/THIS WOULD COME BACK TO GET US! Needless to say, after an hour of NONSTOP "mama mama mama" I decided to go in and sing Archer his timeless favorite "the wheels on the bus" to which is instantly crashed and then held onto me with all he had...slowly and over the course of minutes I was able to lower him into his bed while repeating "mama is right here baby, mama is right here." FINALLY he was out! He ended up sleeping until almost 9am the next morning and we had cafe du monde and headed to The Children's Museum (WHICH WAS AMAZING).

Lunch, back to the hotel to attempt to put Archer down for a nap, followed by more play time and then packing the car to head back to BR and our neglected dogs! So tough to say goodbye to Sonia, Kreider, and Silas, all while knowing we couldn't let an entire two years go by again without a visit (kids grow up too fast).

LONG STORY SHORT...Archer would NOT sleep for the next three nights....he would saw logs on our chests but the second we tried to put him down he would scream...BROKE MY HEART, it was almost as if we had broken a bond...a trust he had and it was awful. The past two nights; however, he has gone back to the old routine of going right to sleep...and in fact has been sleeping in much later than usual so perhaps we got more than we asked for :) YIPEE!

Ok, I have spent far too long at sskfsdkjfhworkwoksldjfl blogging and need to get lots done in order to get home quickly to my boys and my warm bed!

Oh, we had an ultrasound on Monday and saw a lovely little bean (our est. due date is Sept. 14th, but the baby was measuring Sept 19th...) we are sticking to a Sept. 19th due date to avoid the feeling of lateness and agigtation! It is much easier to be early while huge/fat/miserable, then sit around waiting for that day.

Ok, Ook, back to work. I will write more in my weekly blog and add some pictures and a very interesting video when I get home/wake up.

Love,
The ever growing, on our way to a family of 4....
Kimbles

Christmas and such...

We have an awesome holiday!!!  We got to go to Utah for an entire week and bunk up with the entire Kimble clan (which included 5 delightful babies under the age of 2).  It was sooo much fun and it was awesome to be able to relax and enjoy family for a week.   When we got home it was hard to believe Christmas was only a few short days away!!!  Needless to say, Archer's second Christmas was SLLLOOOOOWWW and amazing.  Archer actually seemed to really enjoy his gifts and the gift opening process.  EARLY Christmas morning Colin woke up (around 3am) and was throwing up...so he spent most of Christmas day on the couch.  Around 5pm the bug hit me, and hit me hard....we took turns in the bathroom and also trying to keep an eye on Archer.  It REALLY hits you that you are a parent when you are beyond ill and still someone needs to feed/bathe/and put baby to bed!  It was an interesting situation but we made it!

New Year's was great, we had some friends over, lit some fireworks, played games, and drank champagne.  HORRAY FOR 2010!

Other than that, Archer is now a very amusing toddler boy.  He is busy constantly and as happy as I imagine they come.  

I should write more...and could write more, but while the babe is sleeping I should be productive....

Love the Kimbles