The Neals

My First Smile

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:25:00 +0000

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Oh the Sickness

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:22:00 +0000

Its happened...something that occurs once a year...

Matt is home sick. Poor thing came down with the same thing all of his students have...

No, not H1N1 (that we know of at least).

Just a sore throat, achy body and headache. No fever that we can tell.

Plus, Annelise has a horrible cough/cold and I have an ear infection.

Little Elli is the healthiest thing around here. For now...

Oh the sickness. Please go to someone else's house.

Photo Op Failure

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:55:00 +0000

Lets just say I'm glad I didn't pay to have their pictures taken.

Trick or Treat.jpg

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 01:26:00 +0000

Alayna the elephant and Anne the lady bug. The girls had a blast! Anne loved saying "cookie treat" at each door.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

One Month

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:58:00 +0000

I'm a brave mommy. Elliora had her one month well-child check-up today. And for convenience' sake, I decided to schedule Annelise' flu shot. Am I crazy?

Fearful that this appointment was going to be like a quick visit to...hades...I went over-prepared with Halloween candy galore. Let's just say bribing a two-year old with smarties is now the best idea EVER.

Surprisingly, Annelise got two shots (one in each leg) and only let out a small whimper with a few tears. It was much better than I anticipated. She was a peach.

And Elliora is growing like a weed. She is 9 lbs. 14 oz. and 22 inches long. I almost don't know what to do with a child that actually eats and grows. She's in the 75th percentile for everything. I'm so proud.

Tonight, Matt and I are going on a youth staff retreat to a comfy hotel in Grand Rapids. Annelise will be spending the night at Papa and Gigi's house with her beloved cousin Alayna. I'm only slightly disappointed that we won't get to take her trick or treating tomorrow night. My excitement at sleeping in a king sized bed and eating out are superior to candy collecting in the rain. But, thanks mom and dad for doing the dirty work for me.

Oh to Sleep Like This

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:36:00 +0000

Isn't she sweet?

Loving Fall

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:54:00 +0000

I have two cans of pumpkin in my cabinet, but no evaporated or sweetened condensed milk. Someone tell me how I can make a yummy, pumpkin dessert without the latter two items? This love of fall is killing me without pumpkin yumness in my house.

Regarding fall...and babies - which obviously the two go together...mhmm - Elliora is growing like a weed and sleeping a little better at night. We go to the doctor tomorrow for her one month check-up. I swore I wasn't going to say it, but alas I give in, I can't believe its been a month already. At her last appointment, she gained a whopping pound in less than a week. I'm fairly confident tomorrow's results will be similar. She's a fabulous eater...much unlike her sister who still refuses a full meal per day. What will I do with her?

Speaking of Annelise...she's been dramatically stripped from the spotlight since her sister entered our world. Yet, she has adopted much less of the sibling jealousy than I first feared. Did anyone else notice that their first born became a giant when they brought a new life into the world? It seems like overnight Annelise has gained ten pounds, began speaking in full sentences and went from a size three shoe to a five and a half overnight. My wallet is screaming!

Lest I leave him out as well, Matt has been adjusting to having another girl in the house. He loves being a daddy - especially to daughters - but the lack of sleep is beginning to take its toll. He's been sleeping on the couch in order to get a full night's rest. Last night as he scooped up his pillow and blanket for another night in the living room we both sighed, unable to acknowledge a better solution, but hoping this one would end soon. Annelise slept through the night at 12 weeks. I'm aiming for that.

Ok, my novel of a post is finished. I have no new pictures to share...I've succumb to the reality that your second child really is photographed less than the first. Sorry Elli.

My Little Chubbers

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:29:00 +0000

A New Venture

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:46:00 +0000

Wireless Zone of Holland

Becky Bartlett, Owner - Jason Parks, Sales Associate - Matt Bartlett, Store Manager

My parents have realized a dream of theirs this week: Opening a family business. For years my dad has talked about buying a franchise of sorts. When they began talking seriously about purchasing a Wireless Zone , I have to admit, I was skeptical. But this week, Wireless Zone of Holland opened its doors to serve the wireless needs of the community.

If you know my family - you are not surprised at the choice of franchise. We have always been a little technology-obsessed (to say the least). It wouldn't be out of the ordinary for you to visit our family Thanksgiving and find us talking about the latest cell phone technology or wireless communication. The Wireless Zone business model fits us well. It is the largest carrier of Verizon Wireless products and services, which we are loyal to.

And to keep in the spirit of a family run business, I will be helping out as Director of Marketing. Its a natural fit, being that its my current profession and I already work for my dad. I'm very excited about the opportunity.

So, in an effort to support the business...ahem...I purchased a Blackberry Storm yesterday. I love technology.

Its One of Those Days

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:24:00 +0000

Annelise woke up yesterday with a slight fever and a nose running like a sieve. Elliora slept a total of one hour last night, crying whenever she was awake. That's a lot of crying. Nothing would console her. My poor husband slept on the couch in an effort to get a few hours of sleep before tackling his busy day at school. Every so often, I would hear Annelise sniffle, cry and cough from her room through the monitor and wonder if I should go tend to her. Then, the baby would begin screeching again and I would stop to focus on keeping the peace so that the entire house wasn't awake.

So, you're not surprised its one of those days.

Since I ~~don't~~ can't nap (yes, its the worse curse in the world when you have a newborn) I'm stuck finding ways to get rest today. I think reading a good book and soaking in a scalding hot bathtub is one way.

Our Week in Pictures

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 19:50:00 +0000

Matt's parents came to help me out for the week - and with them they brought Nanny's reading glasses, one of Annelise' favorite toys. This picture cracks me up! She looks like a little librarian.

Paw Paw and Jamal helping Annelise get ready for bed.

Nanny and Paw Paw with Elliora.

This week was also special for my family. My parents are fulfilling a dream of theirs, by opening a family business. In fact, today is the Grand Opening of Wireless Zone - a Premium Retail Outlet for Verizon Wireless. We stopped by the store last week to see the construction progress - Annelise couldn't resist giving cousin Alayna a hug. Too cute!

Paw Paw spent much of the week in this position - napping with Elliora!

Annelise and cousin Alayna sitting on Aunt Leah.

In-Laws Can Be A Wonderful Thing

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:46:00 +0000

Wow.

Matt's parents have been here since Monday evening and I am already blessed beyond measure.

They have cleaned my house, cleaned out my refrigerator, done ALL of my laundry (even folded and put it away), taken complete care of Annelise, helped prepare meals and got groceries - all in three days!

In fact, as I type this, I am snuggling with my sweet Elliora, getting ready to indulge in a fiction novel. Mom and Dad Neal took Annelise to a local playhouse and then are stopping by the store to pick up a few items for me. How nice is that? I feel so spoiled.

The words carpe diem keep running through my mind. They leave Sunday and I'm sure Monday is going to look a lot different around here. Namely, there will likely be less showers, home cooked meals and clean laundry from then on.

So, if you're wondering how you get in-laws like the Neals, I'm not sure...

But, no, you may not have mine.

Oh the Quiet

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 13:51:00 +0000

Elliora Grace - Hospital Birth Photo

We've come a long way since I was born...

The house is blissfully quiet this Sunday morning. I have a sweet, newborn lying beside me with her hand clutching my laptop power cord. She already loves technology. No husband or two year old in site. A mug of hot coffee to my right and nothing stopping me from enjoying it, while I listen to a sermon online.

We're taking it easy today, after overdoing it yesterday morning. I know, you're shocked that I would over do it, right? Well, I couldn't help it. Yesterday marked one of the biggest events of the year at the Mission, of which I am the event director. So, rather than be completely absent, I marched our little family down to the shelter at 9 am to witness the 3rd Annual Rescue Run. It was a smashing event! But as always, I pushed a little too hard and hobbled my way out the door when it was over.

So, I'm on orders to take it easy today (thanks husband!).

On a side note...I feel a little foolish for forgetting how little sleep you get with a newborn. Elliora has had no problem reminding me. Crying from ten til two? I think I blocked those memories from my mind after Annelise started sleeping through the night - which was at ten weeks old. Therefore, I have a new goal...are you listening Elliora? You will be sleeping through the night before you reach your eighth week of life. So help me...

Hello Sweet Due Date

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 13:00:00 +0000

Ironic. Today is the day I was due to have Elliora Grace. I think its only appropriate that I awoke from the worst night's sleep since having her. A sweet reminder of what I got myself into. I'm exaggerating - she actually slept 5 hours straight, after 4 hours of wanting to eat every 15 minutes.

No matter how bad last night was, I'm thrilled that I'm not still pregnant, waiting for this baby to come.

Hello and goodbye sweet due date.

Just Another Tuesday...

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 15:44:00 +0000

I don't think so.

Its our second full day at home. And we are all adjusting to this new baby quite well.

Well, most of us anyways. Annelise has had a few moments of expected jealousy. And we're rolling with the punches as they come...sometimes almost literally.

I love that she loves the baby. Each morning she wakes up and the first words I hear in the monitor are "Baby go?"

Its true, with your second child, you rarely think to snap a photo. Well, you think of it, then your toddler requires your immediate attention and the thought is gone.

So, I've made a concerted effort to not let Elliora slip through the proverbial cracks in the photography pavement and have managed to take a few shots of our sweet, 5 day old baby girl.

Enjoy.

She is very content most of the day. And when she does cry, it sounds like she has lost her voice. Its very squeaky and airy. I'm not sure how, but its cute.

A little blurry, but irresistible nonetheless. She was a ham last night.

Elli's first bath. She hated it, as expected. But, she had to be clean for her first doctor's appointment today.

I remember putting Annelise in this outfit. Oh how time flies.

Matt gets just a few days off with us at home. He has been such a huge help - especially with Annelise. I can already feel the stinging of tears at the thought of him returning to work. Ugh!

Oh, and I'm sure some of you are wondering how this mama is doing in her post c-section recovery? Well, I must say, I'm doing exponentially better than expected. Thanks for asking.

More Elliora

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 17:36:00 +0000

Day two after the c-section and I am feeling better than expected. I was able to take a shower this morning, blow dry my hair, put makeup on - and even go for a short walk to the nursery to get my baby girl. The anesthesiologist came in to check on me and didn't realize I was the patient. That was a compliment. But, after all that hard work getting ready this morning, I think a nap is in order this afternoon - for all three of us.

I had to post these two pictures on here for memories' sake. Top is Annelise, bottom is Elliora.

Do you think they look alike?

Proud mama and papa. Sorry you can't see the baby's face.

Annelise meeting her sister for the first time. She loves to give kisses.

GiGi with her third granddaughter in 2 years. She is going to be busy!

Daddy taking Elli to the nursery so mommy could shower. He's beaming!

I already love her so much.

Elliora Grace Neal

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:13:00 +0000

Baby-Kid #2 has left the womb!!

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 13:52:00 +0000

Yeah, so this is the proud pappa here bringing you the stats. Lil' bundle of joy "Elliora Grace" came in at 8lbs 2oz 19in. Lookin' more like her mum with in my opinion (good thing). Latchin' on nicely and pretty content thus far. Stay tuned for pictures later on... thanks for all your prayers everything went well and all involved are doing great!

~ smiling dad

A Baby In 4 Hours

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 07:16:00 +0000

Its 3:17 am.

I've been wide awake since 1:44 am.

Even after taking two Tylenol PM to help me sleep. Oh well. I'll be having this baby via c-section at 7:30 am, then I can take a nice long nap. That's so weird to say.

I went to the hospital today for pre-admission testing. You know, where they ask you all kinds of medical questions, take your blood and blood pressure. Unfortunately, what I thought was going to be routine was much more. (Go figure. Seems I can't have a baby these days without a little drama.)

My BP was really high. At my doctor's appointment on Tuesday it was 170/90. I know, to most people (like me) that means nothing. Basically, that's REALLY high. Yesterday, I was consistently at 145/110. So, they had me come into the hospital for a few hours to monitor me. I was hoping they would just decide to do the c-section last night, but no luck.

They sent Matt and I off for the night. Which was great - because we enjoyed a wonderful dinner out at my favorite restaurant - Johnny Carino's - and then home to relax.

Now that you're up to date on the drama before the drama, I'll be sure to post pictures of Elliora Grace as soon as I'm up to it.

Sweet dreams for those of you that are sleeping.

Update

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 14:20:00 +0000

Wow - two posts in one morning. Something MUST be happening...

Doctor called this morning. After reviewing my chart again, she does not want to wait until next week to deliver. High blood pressure is too risky and she doesn't want an emergent situation. So, we're scheduled to have a baby on Friday morning at 7:30 am via c-section.

You know what that means?

I can do my hair and makeup before the surgery and look better than I did the first time!

Just kidding. Kind of.

Oh What To Do

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 11:47:00 +0000

I went very excitedly to the doctor last night, hoping (as we all do) for progression in the labor process. Unfortunately, I was given more bad, than good news. I'm still only 2 cm dilated and 50% effaced. No progression there. My blood pressure, which has always been excellent, was high. Protein in my urine. And increased swelling in my legs/feet. Those of you reading this that have been pregnant before just had a red flag go up in your minds.

While I have been very adamant about going VBAC with this one, I also have come to a point where I must listen to my OB's educated advice. She is concerned that the baby hasn't turned face down yet, which can mean a long, difficult labor and delivery. She is also concerned that the baby is becoming distressed.

The doctor promised to call me today to check-in and see if there has been a change - which hasn't happened. No contractions, no water breakage. I feel the same as always. I'm scheduled to return to the doctor's office on Friday morning for an additional exam (mainly to check my blood pressure and swelling). We are also tentatively scheduling a c-section for Friday afternoon. I always have the option of canceling - and of course, something natural could happen before then, though that doesn't look promising.

So, in short, it looks like one way or another, we will be seeing our little girl this weekend!

Apple Picking

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 12:34:00 +0000

I have to admit that not having this baby early has allowed us time to make some last minute memories as a family. This past Saturday, we went apple picking for the first time. The last time Matt and I went apple picking was in college. We were dating, madly in love and spent more time flirting than picking apples. Funny that our next apple picking memory would be centered on our child. Amazing how time flies...

Annelise was shocked to find out that apples grow on trees. We are city people, therefore, she has only ever seen me take an apple out of bag, slice it and eat it. When we entered the orchard, she was amazed!

Of course she loved eating the apples along the way. I think there are probably 50 freshly picked apples with a small bite out of them sitting on the ground at Crane's Orchard.

Daddy thoroughly enjoyed spending the time with Annelise. She wasn't very attentive while he was trying to teach her which apples to pick, but that's ok. There will be plenty more times for "apple lessons" in the future.

One last family picture before we add another bundle of joy to our home.

38 Weeks

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 00:06:00 +0000

Wow, look at that belly. Now you know the source of my impatience. 2 weeks and counting.

Our Little Bengals Fan

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:35:00 +0000

Despite their poor performance on most occasions (ouch) Annelise is still agreeable to wearing her Bengals' outfit (like she has a choice) while watching football with daddy.

37 Weeks

noreply@blogger.com (The Neals) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 11:35:00 +0000

After a long day at home, we all headed out last night to my 37-week appointment. This was the first appointment that Matt was able to go to and we were very anxious to find out how the baby was progressing.

The doctor was very encouraged with my progress. Though I'm still 2cm and 50% effaced, the baby has moved down and become fairly comfortable sitting on my sciatic nerve. After the internal exam, she did deliver some disappointing news. The baby is face up - the exact situation I found myself in with Annelise. Because Annelise was face up, each time I would contract during labor, she would descend into the birth canal and then crawl back north once the contraction was over. Needless to say, the doctor was less than encouraging about our current situation. She gave me some great ideas on ways to get the baby to turn on her own over the next week. Which I attempted last night - very uncomfortably. So, now we wait.

I was so confident in my decision to go VBAC this time, but now I'm questioning whether or not that is the best way to go. The last thing I want is a long, painful labor that results in c-section anyways.

So, would you pray for us? Pray that the baby turns on her own this week. Pray that my next appointment will be encouraging and leave us feeling confident in whatever decision we make. Pray that I would persevere through these last two weeks of uncomfortable sleep and dealing with a very active toddler. And...feel free to pray for anything else you can think of too! I'm sure it applies.