Surviving the '4th Trimester'

Since the last post, Wyatt has turned 2 and 3 months old. We have officially survived the first 3 months of Wyatt's life, also known as the '4th Trimester'. These past 5 weeks we have survived his 2 month shots, feeding/sleeping schedule changes, more road trips, babysitting, first flights, first family vacation, and yes, even the first LSU loss this season.

Wyatt has been discovering many things. His hands, knees, feet, and his reflection in the mirror, for starters. It has been so exciting to watch the progression...first finding and staring at his hands, then finding and touching his left knee, then his right knee, and finally making it to his feet and toes. He has also discovered the animals on his bedding and on the wall border...he reaches out for them and touches them or looks at them and just smiles. It's like a whole new world in his crib. :) He is now enjoying our smiles, voices, and goofy faces :). And he is more aware of the dogs and their barks. I take him outside everyday and always introduce him to each one saying their name out loud...Shelby, Molly, and Edie (in that order since that is the order in which they appear). Shelby seems to show the most interest...the other 2 could probably care less. I mean, they probably feel very neglected so I can understand.



Road trips...we've been back to Weimar and Baton Rouge. The grandparents babysat Wyatt in Weimar for a few hours while Brent and I made our way over to Round Top for the antiques fair. I think it was more for them than for us. :) But they really enjoyed it and we found a couple of items for the house. When we got back, they were all napping on the bed. They survived, and we survived the time away from our little one. We left Weimar and headed to Austin to visit Brent's band and also for them to finally meet Wyatt. The trip to Baton Rouge was meant to be Wyatt's first tailgating experience at LSU (for the UF game). Sadly, it was raining that day (on and off) and we just didn't want to take him out there with my nephews and risk them getting sick. So we just stayed home to watch the game and we'll have to hold off on tailgating until next year. That same weekend Brent was off to Austin for the Oyster Adventure Race. It was also raining there but despite that, Brent had fun during the race. We survived our first weekend apart since Wyatt was born.



The most recent trip we took was to Colorado to visit the cabin we purchased earlier this year. It was our first official family vacation. Brent drove up with the dogs and I 'got to' fly with Wyatt. The flight over was great...he slept from the minute we left the house until we landed in Albuquerque (where Brent was going to pick us up). The way back was a different story...he cried from the minute we arrived to the airport until right about when we were going to take off (so at least he slept through the flight!). Thankfully, we survived both flights. So yes, Brent picked us up at the Albuquerque airport and then we drove the final 4 hours to Pagosa Springs together. We had a wonderful week in Colorado with Wyatt and the dogs. We didn't really have anything at the cabin (furniture and simple things like cookware, etc) so we took a trip to the Walmart in Durango and just bought the necessities for the week. We enjoyed the weather, the views, the surrounding areas, and of course, the cabin itself. The dogs totally enjoyed it also...I am glad they were all there with us. We explored a small (I mean REALLY small) part of the San Juan National Forest which is conveniently close to the cabin. There are so many opportunities there for future visits. I can't wait! We also took Wyatt to a pumpkin patch and to Wolf Creek (so Wyatt can experience snow for the first time). Don't think he liked the snow too much but it was his first time so I am sure that will change with time. :) The end of the week came too quickly and it was time for us to head back to reality. So yes, we survived our first family vacation.



In the beginning of October, Brent and I had the opportunity to spend an evening alone (well, not really alone, but without Wyatt). We went to the Kings of Leon show. A close friend graciously offered to watch Wyatt while we enjoyed ourselves. It was the first time a non-family member took care of him so I was a bit nervous and anxious but we did good...we didn't call once...and guess what, we all survived. :) I need to find some more babysitters out there so Brent and I can actually go out and have a nice peaceful dinner. Any volunteers?? LOL.

The first pumpkin patch experience in Colorado was not so great - Wyatt was cranky (as I would be if someone woke me up from my nap). So I made a second attempt and took him to one here in Houston. Yeah...well...he slept through the entire thing. I did everything but pinch him to wake him up with no success. Oh well. People seem to think he looked sweet regardless so the pictures I took will have to do. Third time's a charm?? Maybe try again tomorrow? We'll see.



In the meantime, I'll continue to enjoy Wyatt's cooing and smiles and watching him develop some more. Only 2 more months left before I head back to work! It goes by sooooo fast...especially with the holidays coming up, January will be here before we know it. :(

A lot of 'Firsts'

It’s time to get caught up on our recent happenings (sorry for the delay once again!). These past few weeks have been all about getting to know Wyatt and experiencing a lot of ‘firsts’.

Wyatt had his first photo shoot right before he turned 4 weeks old and then had another one when he turned 1 month old (just a few days later!). Wow…it’s tough being the center of attention. :) He did well despite what was asked of him. The first photo shoot was for the birth announcements and it was definitely challenging and ummm….interesting. Thankfully, the photographer was a good sport and she was able to get some really great shots during the event. But the subject was not really working with us but I guess that is expected from a newborn. I mean, how do you get a baby to do what you want and not do what you don’t want?? LOL. We really did have a good few laughs during the shoot and we are more than happy with the results. Just a few pics from the shoot. There were so many good ones!



The second photo shoot was for family pictures in Weimar with the Dudleys and the Cowles (Brent's grandparents) and he did much better during that one. The shoot was outdoors and it was a little warm but he had just eaten so I think we timed it well. I guess he’s getting used to being photographed. Haha.

So yes, we took our first road trip with the little one (to Weimar to visit the grandparents and meet the great grandparents) right before he turned one month old. Packing was a challenge but I am amazed at how well we did. Weimar was a great test for the first road trip since it is only 1 hr ½ away. The truck was crammed with stuff (normally we each take a small bag when we go to Weimar!) but we managed to fit everything…including the 3 pups. It’s amazing how many things a baby needs. Geez… Anyway, unfortunately, we realized that I don’t fit very comfortably when the car seat is in the back! It took up so much space and my knees were literally a couple of inches from the dash. Yikes!! Thankfully it wasn’t a long drive but it meant that we had to be in the market for a new truck. Uh oh. So, about a week ago, we got the same truck (brand new) but a double cab and now everyone is happy. We just need to get a camper top so the pups can travel with us! Pic of Wyatt below on our way to Weimar, with the Cowles, and his favorite great Aunt Jody.



We took another road trip this past weekend to Louisiana to visit my sister and her family. Packing was a challenge once again but I think I’m getting it down! We did pretty well during this trip also. He’s still on a 3 hr feeding schedule so we had to stop to feed him during the drive but we managed to arrive to Gonzales in a decent amount of time. It was nice to get away even if just to hang out, eat, watch football, and spend some low key time with the fam. Of course, we watched alot of college football including both the LSU and UT games (both our teams won!). Geaux Tigers!! Go Longhorns!! Below, napping with daddy, with cousin Aidan, and with Titi (Aunt) Meche.



We’ve had many wonderful experiences with Wyatt these past few weeks. At his one month appointment he weighed 10 lbs 2 oz. Definitely a healthy boy...he's getting pretty heavy! He’s been smiling a lot more each day which makes all the not so great experiences sooooo worth it (he definitely has his cranky moments)! But I just LOVE the smiles!!! He has also turned from his tummy to his back side on his own (that was pretty scary!!). We decided to move him into his crib in his room and we have been trying to get him to go to sleep on his own…he reminds us that he’s still the boss from time to time but he’s been good about falling asleep at least SOME times. Haha. He has slept longer hours for just a few nights...definitely can't say he's consistently sleeping through the night. We’ve had a couple of play dates with some other babies and those have been fun (I think mommy enjoys those more than he does!). We also took him to his first Astros game (the Astros won!) and he’s experienced his first LSU and UT games as well. And now that it’s getting a little nicer outside (and more bearable), we’ve started taking him out for walks (I think he likes it!).



So, definitely a month packed full of experiences and activities. We continue to enjoy every moment with our little Wyatt. He’s just getting so big and changing so much too quickly. I love to just stare at him when he’s sleeping and taking in all of his little features. He is truly precious. I can’t believe he’ll already be 2 months old tomorrow!

Wyatt's Anticipated Arrival

Oh wow, it's been a while. I've been slacking and I apologize. Many things have happened since the last post. For starters, Little Buddy was born. My doc decided it was time to induce since I was really swollen and my blood pressure was rising...which are signs of mild preeclampsia so it was a big concern. So, on the evening of Tuesday the 21st (pic below of me in the nursery right before we left for hospital below), we checked into the hospital and on Wednesday, July 22nd at 9:03 pm, Wyatt Carlos Dudley entered the world. He weighed 7 lbs 8 oz and was 20 1/2 inches long. He also had a full head of hair! We decided on his name when we both saw him. It just seemed to fit. :) I give Brent full credit for coming up with the name. His middle name is after my father. Below is Brent bringing little Wyatt out to meet the family after he was delivered.



The day itself was long. I was induced very early in the morning and after many, many hours of waiting, the doc decided it was time to perform a cesarian. Oh well. I knew it was necessary since the doc had said she would only perform a cesarian as last resort. Regardless, I am glad everything turned out ok in the end. The night Wyatt was born, he was eventually taken to the NICU to be monitored (his glucose levels were really low). That was very hard (not having him in the room to enjoy him) and it just seemed like forever before he was brought back. He finally was brought to our room a couple of nights later and that was the best feeling (to have him with us).

Thankfully the family was there when he arrived.. My sister drove in with my mom and nephews that morning. Brent's parents and brother were also there to share the moment. My brother came by the hospital as well. And what do you know...the Astros beat the Cardinals (4-3) that night. :) It was a great night for sure. Below is a pic of the family watching little Wyatt through the nursery window.



A few shots below while we were still at the hospital (with the grandparents, daddy, Titi Meche and mom):



We were finally discharged that Saturday early afternoon and the following 3 1/2 weeks were interesting as we got used to little Wyatt being home with us. We've been getting to know his moods and different cries. I love the little noises he makes when he's eating or sleeping. My mom stayed with us for some time and she helped us out tremendously with cooking as it was one less thing for us to think about. Thanks mom! We also have had tons of visitors (they came to see Wyatt, of course, not me. Haha). But it was all a good time. We are extremely happy. My favorite picture below of little Wyatt right before we went home. He is so precious. Looking at him and his adorable face makes all of the sleepness nights worth it. :)



The whole family is overjoyed and really enjoying little Wyatt. Below are a few shots from the past few weeks at home (with Uncle J, napping, with Abuela, with Tio Marco, and with his cousins):



We took little Wyatt to his first pediatric appointment a few days after he was born and he did very well. The doc was really nice.



Another big milestone during the past few weeks - I turned 34 on August 3rd. It was definitely a great birthday since I had received the biggest blessing a couple of weeks before. Spending my birthday with my family and the newest member was truly perfect. Brent's dad and brother brought us food from PFChangs so we hung out at the house and had dinner. It was delicious. Thanks guys!

Today little Wyatt is 4 weeks old and it's amazing how much he has grown and changed. How time flies.... I hope tomorrow we are not giving him the keys to the car. :(

Family Time and Preparations

The past couple of weeks have been pretty much days of preparation with a few opportunities to spend time with some family.

Last weekend we had the pleasure of meeting a couple of Brent’s cousins. We took them to Ruggles Cafe Bakery in the Village for lunch. We just talked and talked about the family in general - family members, events, and good past times. It’s always nice to hear the stories from generations and generations as they really make us appreciate our families so much. They are such wonderful people and I am glad we were able to get to know them even for just the short while we had to do so.



The night before, we enjoyed a very nice dinner at Churrascos. Can I just say “Oh My Goodness!!!”? Triple yum!! Of course, the Tres Leches was to die for, but the churrasco itself was remarkably delicious. The whole evening was pleasant…except for the fact that yet another person mentioned to me that I look like I am going to have a little girl!!! Really?? Not that there’s anything wrong with that but with all of the ultrasounds I’ve had….surely, they cannot be wrong about our little one’s ‘boy part’?? LOL.

A few days before that, Brent went to the Astros day game with his dad and brother and they enjoyed some quality time together. They had pretty awesome seats…right behind the visitor team’s dugout. Wow! And I believe the Astros won that game! Then, the two of us went to the Astros game the next evening with one of Brent's friends from San Antonio and that was also a good time. Go Astros! Another win!!



Last week, Brent decided to pull up the carpet in our bedroom so that was a mess for a few days. We were sleeping on the air mattress in the living room for a few nights since the guest room was full of stuff from our bedroom and we couldn’t get to the bed. So, I went in for a routine doctor appointment the next day (Wednesday) to find out that my blood pressure was elevated so the doctors were alarmed and immediately sent me over to Memorial Hermann for additional tests and some monitoring (apparently the high blood pressure combined with the swelling is a big no-no and they were worried about me having preeclempsia). Thankfully, my blood pressure went down and stayed that way during the entire monitoring period. All the tests they performed came back ok but still, it was definitely an eye opener for us. I realized I wasn’t prepared for the real thing! So, back at the office, I packed up my stuff…and back at the house, Brent was determined to get our bedroom back in order…you know, just in case. :) We picked out and bought paint for the walls so he got right on that over the weekend. Thankfully, his brother came over on Saturday and helped out (thank you Justin!!). Yesterday, (Sunday) was dedicated to cleaning the wood floors and then everything was back in the room before that evening (so at least we are now able to sleep in the guest room until the room airs out). And the doggies for sure know that something is just different. They are definitely going to miss the carpet!!! Regardless, the room looks great!!! Good work babe! ;) So, now I think we are a bit more organized at home and almost ready for the guests. Now, if we can just pick out a name for our Little Buddy!!!! :)



This last Saturday, a friend invited me to go with her to watch the new Cirque du Soleil show that came into town, Saltimbanco. It was wonderful…as always….never a disappointing Cirque performance. The things those people can do is just incredible. That evening though, it stormed like crazy! We totally needed the rain but when we arrived at the venue, the parking lot was flooded and the stadium had lost power. So we just had to wait a bit for the power to get restored. At least we didn’t have to go back home and miss the show! The show was really amazing and I am thankful for having the opportunity to go with my friend (thanks Shawn!!) before giving birth.

We grilled again as the weekend came to a close (steak and shrimp) and Brent’s brother came over to join in on the tradition. While we ate, I enjoyed listening to some interesting stories they had to tell. ;) Too funny. Loved the entertainment. We also took the opportunity to take a couple of pics of the two of us since we don’t have many pics of us together with the belly. :)



Anyway, I’ve been trying to take it easy…but it’s extremely hard! I just can’t sit still (which doesn't help the swelling). Neither of us can. And I am sure that is why I'm so tired and probably clumsy. Did I mention I got a speeding ticket a few weeks ago (I mean, I was going 40 in a 30...don't get too excited!) but then a week and a half ago I scraped someone's front bumper when I was trying to park and I also lost my debit card last week and then I almost rear-ended someone's car. Argh!! What else can go wrong these days?? I just need to rest and get some sleep (even though I am so uncomfortable). Soon, life will be soooooo different and I am sure I will be wishing I had taken the opportunity to relax when I had the time. Haha.

We are definitely getting close....and yes, we are ready!!! :)

Celebrations - Anniversary and 4th of July

The weekend before last was the celebration of our 1st wedding anniversary (yes, it’s been a year…can you believe it?!?!?). We had originally planned to go to Fredericksburg and stay at a bed and breakfast over the weekend but the heat was just way too much so we decided to stay in town. We ended up staying at the Houstonian Hotel, Club and Spa on Friday night and we spent the following day relaxing at the pools. What we didn’t expect was the mass number of kids that would be there along with us…not so much relaxing but enjoying a Saturday at the pool (so much for a quiet and romantic getaway! LOL). The sun was definitely beaming but the cool waters of the Sports and Resort pools were definitely a relief. That night we went to the Astros game (vs. the Detroit Tigers) which we won 8-1! Sunday was just a laid back day. The weekend was nice all around.



Last weekend we celebrated Independence Day. My sister, brother-in-law, and nephews came to visit and we once again enjoyed spending a couple of days at the pool. Friday, we went to one friend’s pool and grilled fajitas. Saturday, we went to another friend’s pool and grilled burgers and hot dogs. Both days were hot and the water in the pools was not even that refreshing since it was warm (b/c it was so hot!) but nevertheless, that is where we hung out most of the time. And thank goodness for the shade. What was nice was that on my sister’s suggestion, I bought a float for the pool so I could actually lie on my stomach and get some sun on my back! Why didn’t I think of that?? It was totally worth it and it just felt nice to lie in a different position for a change. Brent gave Aidan some goggles and spent some time teaching him how to go under water. Aidan was very attentive and very keen on mimicking every move Brent made. It was so adorable. :) We were worn out on the both days after the pool…naps were taken, movies were watched, pizzas were ordered….lazy, lazy, lazy. But we really enjoyed the company and the extended weekend itself. The boys are just a joy to have around… they even enjoyed putting their hands on my stomach to feel the baby move. Alexander knew something was underneath and would lift up my shirt to see what it was. Haha. What a compliment...he must know I am not normally this fat. :) Anyway, I was definitely exhausted at the end of it all and needed an evening to wind down.



Sunday night we just chilled and grilled some steaks on the new grill (we got the grill last summer but it had stayed behind at our other house when we moved and just recently picked it up! Thank you guys for bringing it over!).



On Monday I had another biophysical profile and ultrasound done at the doctor’s office. Apparently, I am starting to have contractions (the active and crazy weekend probably had something to do with it!) so my body is definitely getting ready for the real stuff (oh goodness!). We are now making sure we’ve got everything prepared just in case Little Buddy decides to come early (hospital bags are packed, etc.). But I am feeling fine overall…just some cramping, tired, and I have swollen feet/ankles at times. Oh, the joys of being 8 months pregnant. Haha. Four more weeks to go!!! Below is a pic of me at 34 weeks taken sometime last week.