1 Jan 2007
Happy New Year (from far away)
Hello Faithful Readers, I wanted to take a moment to wish everyone a blessed and happy New Year! Carolyn and I already feel so incredibly blessed. There will be so much change for us this year, and we have so much to be thankful for. I will be home soon and am eager to get myself "mentally prepared" for the change that is about to comsume our lives. I can't tell you all how excited I am at the prospect. We are making headway in lots of areas - Carolyn has finished the nursery, we had a wonderful Christmas that saw us receiving all the things we need to make our nursery complete, we have decided on names (we think), and we have even found the car that we want to buy. If Carmax comes through and gets it to Nashville our preparations will be complete! So Happy New Year from far away to all of you who mean so very much to us! John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 1 Jan 2007 at 4:00 AM
2 Jan 2007
Hospital Stay... once again
Well.. it seems Tuesday is the day for hospital visits for Amber and bee.. Today she called and told me she was at the hospital again because Mitch found her on the floor in the bathroom apparently passed out... She was having severe headaches and back pain as well as contractions every 10 minutes or so... John is still gone and as of right now, he doesn't know about this... (I did email him but he only checks it once or twice a day) He is due home this weekend so it won't be long!! The stats as of now are, Amber will be staying 24 hours in the hospital for observations... she has been given some medicine for both the pain and for the contractions (a pain killer/muscle relaxer) She had a sonogram earlier and the baby seems to be ok.. he/she is weighing in at about 5.2 pounds and is at 35.3 weeks gestation (2.4 weeks ahead of schedule, already and early bird like it's parents!!) She was dilated a fingertip (this was at noon but is now 1cm with 50% effacement (thinning of the lining) and at stage -3 (the babies head is 3 cm above the pelvis, a good thing) She asked the Dr about the possibilities of delivering now and they are going to do all they can to stop it from happening but there is always that chance... so if baby comes now, the Dr said there shouldn't be much of an issue other than helping him/her learn how to eat and breathe at the same time and that he/she might need oxygen at birth.. the Dr told her after 32 weeks the lungs are developed and that shouldn't be an issue, but you never know... I am going to go this Friday (for the weekend) to see her and support her the best I can, not to mention rest my own mind in the process... I am beat right now and need packing and planning for an unexpected weekend away!! :) Thanks for all your prayers but keep them coming... Love you all Carolyn (and John)
Posted on 2 Jan 2007 at 5:47 PM
8 Jan 2007
We thought O'daddy might have bee sharing his birthday?? but no such luck...
Hello all... I know you are all anxious to hear the news from Kansas but there really isn't much to tell... so....I will summarize so far what we have found out... First, sorry to those that I haven't had time to call and update personally... It certainly hasnt been for lack of thinking about it... I know you are all wondering so I thought this was the best way to fill all of you in and feel free to pass along information to those that ask you... :) John got in last Thursday afternoon and we immediatly headed for Kansas EARLY the next morning... we made it here with no issues and hung out with Amber and family for the weekend... Amber had an appointment on Friday due to the visit to the hospital and nothing had changed as far as her dilation. The Dr wasn't happy with the fact the hospital didn't run the test she wanted and that she hadnt received ANY results from the few tests they did run... She did find that the baby was placed right on the sack of water and any super strong contraction or movment of bee could cause it to rupture or AKA water break and here comes baby.. She was sent home with orders to stay on bed rest and to come back in if she had any changes with contractions or anything abnormal... All was well over the weekend other than some light bleeding on Saturday but the nurse said it wasnt of any concern being that it was a small amount. Sunday John headed back to C'ville and I stayed on for a few more days (or a few more weeks, depending). I rented a car (not as nice as the Jetta we had in Kansas City) and moved from the Holiday Inn to Post, for one night... Post was booked so today I moved to another hotel but one right next to the hospital... speaking of the hospital, last night Amber started having contractions, fast, irregular but strong... I attemped as the paranoid mom to be to get her to go last night to the hospital but to no avail... she did agree that if they weren't better by morning she would go either to the clinic or to the hospital. So I got a call around 7:30 this am with Amber saying she was going to go to the hospital because she has 4 or 5 bouts of "leaking" when she stands up.. now for those that havent been pregnant, sometimes the baby can cause you to pee your pants and/or leak OR she could have a hole in her amnionic sack and she could technically be leaking amnionic fluid.. which would mean baby will be here in 24 hours or less... They wont let you carry the baby longer than that for fear of infection. Well... we went to the hospital this morning packed with camera and enough goodies for the kids not to be totally bored to tears. Amber was checked and no go.. they didnt seem to think it was amnionic fluid, said she was still only 1cm dilated and they also FINALLY ran the fetal fibronectin test and it came back negative... what does that mean? in theory, it means Amber wont go into labor for two weeks... but none of us are banking on that... Tomorrow we go back to the Dr (her regular Tuesday appt) and see what the Dr tells us.. So my plans are to wait and see what the Dr has to say, ask her oppinion about my going home for a week or so and then flip a coin. I know Amber wants me to stay and a part of me does too but a part wants to go home too... I feel kind of helpless here but then I will be TOTALLY helpless at home... So any suggestions would be great!! :) Ok... I am about to head back to the hotel and let Amber rest... I do have my cell and ya'll are free to call if you just cant stand it!! haha.. Keep baby bee and Amber in your prayers and I will keep you all posted as best I can... Love you all Carolyn (and John)
Posted on 8 Jan 2007 at 4:30 PM
13 Jan 2007
Baby Gets a New Ride, and Daddy Takes a Breath
Hello All, I've finally had a chance to take a breath and get my wits about me. To call the last two weeks hectic would be a gross understatement. I was in transit overseas moving from one place to another just 10 days ago when someone knocked on my door and said, "LTC Evans, you need to call home right away . . . but it is not an emergency" - yeah right! I finally got through the Carolyn and got caught up on Amber's situation and decided to cut my trip several days short and return home via commercial air (and I had really been looking forward to traveling home through the "door to door" service of military air - no such luck). So it was planes, trains and automobiles again through the middle east, Amsterdam and Detriot before I got to the Nashville airport. I got in about 4:00 pm on Thursday night (to the open arms of my wife). We made the one hour drive home, stopped to pick up a pizza, did some laundry, re-packed and got up at 3:30 am the next morning to catch our flight to Wichita - needless to say I did NOT want to see the inside of another airliner ;-) We had a great weekend wth Mitch, Amber and the girls and based on feedback from the hospital I elected to come home on Sunday, went right back to work on Monday, and Carolyn followed on another flight Wednesday (our Anniversary) and went right back to work on Thursday - whew! Yesterday we rounded out our week with a trip to Carmax to test drive, inspect and eventually buy our new car - a beautiful 2005 Acura MDX - low miles, all the amenities and much bigger and safer than Carolyn's Toyota. So Baby Bee will be riding in style once he or she gets here. Carolyn really likes the car, but I'll let her tell you about that ;-) We ended our night last night with a belated Anniversary dinner at Jimmy Kelly's in Nashville - a quaint local restaurant with incredibly good food and waiters who wear white mess steward jackets. It was great, and we highly recommend the Blue Cheese Filet (an 8 ounce filet mignon stuffed with blue cheese - incredible!) It's finally Saturday morning and I can enjoy a cup of coffee without having to "be somewhere" - which is a blessing. Today we will have our Christmas celebration and open Anniversary gifts (something we have not yet had time to do). But despite the harried activities of the last two weeks, we continue to feel God's blessing as he takes care of Amber and the Bee. I know Carolyn intends to post today, so I will let her give a more detailed Bee update. Thanks to all of you for your continued prayers, your well wishes, and thanks to the Ruppel and Evans clans for their very generous Christmas gifts (which we finally got a chance to open). Take care! John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 13 Jan 2007 at 7:53 AM
15 Jan 2007
It's a good thing we are going to be parents
Because we really stink at being uncle and aunt... HAPPY BIRTHDAY HALEY... yes, we missed it once again for, what? the fourth year in a row... WE ARE SO SORRY... I feel so bad about this because Ginny is the BEST at remembering everything... :) so... I hope I will be better at this once I have a baby of my own... SO.... I L.O.V.E. my new ride... yes, it is for the baby but WOW.. it rocks... It is a 2005 (I think I told Tracey it was a 2006) with just under 29000 miles.. white and has all the bells and whistles... such as memory seat positions that adjust to which car key is used... Heated seats, automatic wipers.. as in it knows how much rain is falling and adjust the speed accordingly, automatic hands-free phone calling on the steering wheel... (this will be great on post as it isn't allowed to talk on the phone while driving) XM radio and a 6 CD changer... It is plenty large and we already have our baby bee's car seat in place!! What an upgrade from my beloved Rav 4... as much as I loved that little car, and it makes me sad to think she is now sitting in a lot being put out to pasture... I LOVE this car... and do believe I will quickly move on and forget about the Rav... It is ready for John to make the trek to Kansas to get our little bee and I am sure he will be thrilled to make that drive in the new ride.. :) Baby news, none yet... I am heading back to Wichita this Saturday for a Monday appt and a return trip home Tuesday (bee willing) .... I hope the appt will give us more insight on when the dr expects bee to arrive... Right now Amber is still having the back pain, headaches and the sleepless nights... I hate that she feels crappy but the end is in sight... The nursery is just about finished, in fact I think John is adding the final touches today as he is off today... (just shelves and hanging the bee hive Danielle made) I will attach photos if I can from here.. speaking of "here" this will be my last week prior to going on leave ... 5 DAYS AND COUNTING!!! OMG.. I am so excited... lets just hope bee gives me a few days of R&R before I jump into mommy mode.... Oh, one last thing.... YEAH YEAH YEAH... I am doing the happy dance for my dear friend Christy!!! YEAH YEAH YEAH.... I cant tell you just how excited I am to have you be my right hand man this summer!! All righty.. I need to TRY to focus on work now... :) Love you all and please pray to keep those in harms way safe and sound.. Carolyn (and John) The photos are in order around the room... don't worry the heavy items on the shelf above the changing table will be moved once John hangs the other shelves today... the photos above the crib are ultrasound photos of Amber and I and Johns face the first time he saw the ultrasound.. :) Lastly the closet photo, just to make you all sick, I have now labeled all the baskets so I know what is in each one.. haha...
Posted on 15 Jan 2007 at 7:25 AM
19 Jan 2007
Three hours and counting.. (give or take a few) haha.
Well, here it is ... the day I have been so looking forward to... my last day at work... For almost 14 years I have walked these halls and I just can’t believe it is ending... I am both happy, no... ecstatic about leaving but there is a part of me that is very sad... Primarily the few people here that I call friends... One in particular... My office mate, confidant and dear friend Tori... I really don’t think I could have made it through all of those “Marvis” days and the dating issues without you here listening to my sob stories and bitch sessions... Seriously, you are a great friend and I am going to miss you so very much... I am trying like the dickens NOT to cry today but I can’t guarantee anything... I know we will keep in touch but it will be different. We won’t be sharing hours everyday talking about politics, our darling husbands, our pets or complaining about our co-workers all over our Starbucks coffee! But we WILL get together!! This I promise... I love you honey and I hope you know that... There are a few others here that I will certainly miss, but NO ONE like Tori... ok... time to change the subject as I am (now in tears... Baby news.... Yesterday Amber had another Biophysical Profile done on bee and everything was great!! We scored 8/8 and they finally caught bee breathing so I am so relieved.. whew.. We also found out that bee is measuring on average 37.5weeks and bee’s femur is 38.2weeks.. (we are 35.1 days at this appt) they also measured the baby’s weight (per Amber’s request) and bee is a whopping 6 pounds 8 ounces... WOW.. that is what I was at birth full term and what Meghan was at birth at 37 weeks... they say that babies at this stage gain between 1-2 ounces per day so at that rate we might have a little sumo wrestler in there ... hahaha ... Amber is still having discomfort... headaches, back pain, lack of sleep, contractions, swelling, elevated blood pressure.. Shall I go on? I am so sorry honey..... but I will be there soon so I We have another OB appointment on(hope that reduces your stress a tiny bit.. Monday so maybe she will see that scheduling an induction is a good idea so Gram, Gran and O’daddy, not to mention DAD can make arrangement to be there... I think Gram is going to drive with John when he comes and Gran and O’daddy have already purchased tickets for Jan 31st so let’s hope Amber’s body, bee and Dr Rogers agree with the time line!! For those that don’t know, I have decided to go to Kansas tomorrow as scheduled but I am now going to stay until bee is here... It was just getting too stressful for me to be here and Amber here so I decided to just stay... I will miss my honey but I think it is the best thing for everyone... this way at least I will be there in the event Amber just goes into labor... Now, I just have to hope I get to Wichita before the snow and ice does tomorrow!!! So for those that want to know what is going on, either call my cell or check here for the updates...!! Ok.. I need to finish up and lock my door and make that horrid drive for the LAST FRIGGIN TIME!!!! YIPPPPEEEEE..... Love you all!! Carolyn (aka, Stay at home mommy!!!!)
Posted on 19 Jan 2007 at 9:36 AM
21 Jan 2007
Dedicated Mother to Be
Hi Folks, Just wanted to give a quick update to let you all know that Carolyn is in Wichita where she will stay until Baby Bee is here! I will join her soon (I'll travel based on what the OB says at Amber's appointment on Monday). Despite her immense dislike of driving in bad weather, Carolyn arrived in Kansas City yesterday just as the mid-west was experiencing a significant snow event. The usual 3 hour drive took her closer to 5 to get from KC to Wichita, but she was undeterred! She is now safely there, and is probably out making snowmen right now with Bailey and Meghan. She was beat last night when she arrived, but with work behind her and her eyes clearly focused on the birth she is right where she wants to be. Me, Stonewall, Colby and Ashley will be eating "bachelor food" this week, but soon hope to join her. I hope everyone has a great day. Keep the whole team in your prayers - we are almost there! John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 21 Jan 2007 at 12:07 PM
22 Jan 2007
35 weeks and the countdown is on...
Well.... here we are... we had our 36th week appointment (we're 35.5 weeks) this morning and the bee is just fine as expected.. Amber had quite the rough night with strong contractions and of course no sleep... With that said we were praying that all that pain would for sure result in more cervical dilation and we were correct.. we are dilated to 2cm and 70-75% effaced. AND ..... drum roll please...... the Dr said she wanted to go ahead and schedule an induction date!!!! YEAH YEAH YEAH... we asked about Feb 2, Groundhog day but more importantly, John's bday but the Dr will be out of town (bummer) until Feb 6th ... we both were holding our breath that she wouldnt say "lets plan for Feb 6th or later" but SHE DIDN'T.... we are scheduled for Jan 31st (the day after Bailey's 4th birthday) for the big birthday of our darling bee!! unless Amber goes into labor before then, which could happen. I cant tell you how excited that makes me, finally a date that I can work towards... John and Mom will make the drive either Saturday or Sunday, we'll have a few days to get ready, then SHOW TIME!!! We do have a biophysical profile test (#3) schedued for this Thursday and another OB appointment on Monday at that time she will schedule the time and date with the birthing center... I am so excited that in NINE DAYS OR LESS we get to meet our little one.... I can't smile wide enough.... Gran and O'daddy will be here either the 30th or the 31st for the birth and to help welcome him or her into this world... Tonight we have been just hanging out and i got to feel bee with the hiccups!! too cute and even though he/she isnt by blood a Ruppel, he/she sure has the hiccup issues that the Ruppels tend to have!! haha... we are about to head out for some dinner but I just HAD to update you all!! Love you to all and check back as we'll have more info by the end of the week!!
Posted on 22 Jan 2007 at 6:53 PM
26 Jan 2007
Baby Bee's Third Biophysical Profile.... and Lunch with our Lawyers....
Hello everyone... as you can assume I am getting rather homesick and REALLY tired of sleeping in the dorms here on Base... BUT there is a light at the end of the tunnel with John arriving tomorrow afternoon and the rest of the baby bee clan soon there after... Not to mention I am moving to the hotel across from the hospital tomorrow with a good shower and much more quiet neighbors... Now, don’t get me wrong.. I LOVE seeing Amber and family but it is quite the challenge being away from "home" for such a long time... Heck, I got home sick when we were in Maui for a week!! haha... Anywhoo... Last Wednesday, Amber, Bailey, Meghan and I got to enjoy lunch with Rachael and Laura!! our lawyers!! What a treat to finally get to meet Laura as Amber has talked so highly about, our professed SMO stalker.. haha.. and I know Amber was thrilled to meet Rachael, our night in shining armor after dear Ms. Tate... Thank you both so much for lunch and the great company!! What a thrill to just have lunch with our attorneys without talking business... and yes, Gran, O'daddy and Grammy, you'll get to meet them too as their condition for doing the pre birth order is getting to hold the bee!! haha... 5 more days!!! Amber seems to be doing well... she still has the elevated blood pressure and swelling but we have now gone three days (knock on wood) without going to Labor and Delivery... haha.. I told her she can go everyday if it makes her feel more comfortable... I have NO problem going and staying with her... I figure Mitch has done his share already, it is my turn now..... So the bee is well and we had our 3rd Biophysical Profile yesterday... we passed with flying colors this time ... I think bee was trying not to give mommy a heart attack and quickly did all the requirements... and it could be because I goofed and got Amber a real leaded coke for lunch.. sugar AND caffeine!! This is something I need to remember for the next go round.. The tech measured the bee but couldn’t get a weight.. (we were guessing at least 7# but we wont know until birth now) she did measure bee's femur and it was ...... get this...... 41.5!!! OH MY GOSH.... it grew two weeks size in one week!!! and the head measured 39.4 (I believe... ) needless to say, as we have said time and time again... we have a little linebacker, sumo wrestler or basketball player in there!! a single baby that thinks it's a twin!! haha... Good thing we only have 5 days to go or we might have a toddler at birth.. and good Lord, I don’t know if I can handle a toddler from the get go.. I need some cooing and giggles first!! Today we are going to work on our birth plan, schedule a spa day and work on some "birth shirts" for all of us to have at the delivery!! yes, this means you too O'daddy!! :) I need to run for now but please keep my darling in your prayers as he makes his long drive tomorrow... as well all our soldiers in harms way!! oh, and YEAH YEAH YEAH to you Andrea!! I am Soooooo happy that you are going to get to stay!!! hugs to you honey.... Love to you all Carolyn
Posted on 26 Jan 2007 at 10:31 AM
29 Jan 2007
Final OB appointment!!
Well, here we are... we had our last OB appointment this morning and the BEE and Amber are both doing very well... According to last week's biophysical profile, the BEE is in the 95th% and is ready to go!!! Amber is dilated 3cm and is 80% efface... and has gained a total of 30# ... I think John and I have gained about 5# each our selves.. Hahahah... She is currently having contractions (and have been for, what, months now) so we shall see if we actually make it to induction... which is scheduled for Wednesday at 6 A.M.!! YES, I will have to get up really early for this baby... (I hope the starbucks here is open that early!!) Mom is going to get here tomorrow afternoon, Amber's mom will be here tomorrow evening and then Gran and O'Daddy will be here Wednesday around noon, so lets, hope (I think) baby holds out until noon on Wednesday so Gran and O'Daddy can be here in time!! I need to run for now but I wanted to update you guys on where we stand.. IT IS OFFICIAL, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 31st we will become parents!! I AM SO EXCITED!! I CANT WAIT!! Love to you all!! Carolyn (and John)
Posted on 29 Jan 2007 at 4:12 PM
30 Jan 2007
My letter to BEE... (my final hours as surromommy)
Where do I begin? So much has happened over the past nearly 2 years to bring this day to reality. I've dreamed of you along side your parents, I prayed for you before you were even a glimmer of hope in my womb, I've imagined what you will look like, how your mommy and daddy will cry with joy when they first lay eyes on you, how I myself will cry knowing the miracle we all wished so hard for, is here. Where you are supposed to be. In June, 2005 I met your mommy. We became fast friends who knew immediately that we had been brought together for a specific reason... little did we know then, that reason was YOU! We spoke online about the process of surrogacy and how it all worked. We talked about both Daddy and Mr. Mitch being in the military and the common bonds they shared. We talked about all of the little things that made us much more similar than we could have ever hoped for. It was an AMAZING day when your mommy called me and asked me to bear an absolute miracle of a gift, YOU! I was so happy! I cried in anticipation of helping to bring you into this world. From that day forward, my dedication to your mommy and daddy only magnified. I was DETERMINED that I would help you be born at any and all cost. We suffered quite a few bumps in the road throughout that next year but there was one thing that NEVER changed. Our dedication to bringing you into this world. In April 2006 I got the phone call we had all been waiting for... It was a go. I could start taking the medications that were necessary for me to take to start preparing my body to be a safe, comfortable home for you. There was never such a woman as excited to give herself 2 shots a day as I was. I KNEW that if we could just get you in my womb, you would be fine. On June 5th 2006 that is exactly what happened... 2 embryos were placed into my womb with the hopes that they would find a comfortable place and decide to grow for the next 9 months. Three and a half days later I had the news that I had been wainting so "patiently" to share with your mommy and daddy.... You were really real... They were going to be parents VERY SOON! You changed everyone's life from that day forward! You made us all believe in faith and miracles in a way much stronger than perhaps we had before. The next 8 months weren't without complication, but they were AMAZING... You took off like a weed, exceeding every expectation given for you. We all knew early on that you were not only a survivor but a determined child who will one day set the world on fire! As my tummy grew, so did the smile on your mommy and daddy's face. I loved seeing them and catching their reaction to the reality that you were really on your way! For 9 months, I have been priviledged to carry you and help give you life. A life I know will be full of love, smiles, hugs, and kisses! A life that will continue to bless others the way you already have blessed mine and so many others. You have taught me alongside your mommy and daddy the meaning of true friends, absolute and unyeilding trust, and most of all that dreams DO come true! I want you to know that while I may not always be close enough to hold your hand, I am always holding your heart. You are so loved by so many. I want you know that the tears I cry are tears of joy, hope, and love. I have been so lucky to get to share, in such a special way, your birth into not only this world, but your parent's arms. As my time with you in womb draws quickly to an end, I want you to know that I love you. My role, while no longer as prevelant, is still to help you grow, guide you, and love you. You will always hold a special place in my heart, a place no one else will ever fill. I will always be here for you and your mommy to share in the smiles of the good times and tears of the bad. I will always remember how your heart beats, how sweet your movements were, and how your mommy and daddy waited with such love for your arrival. Tomorrow, when you are finally in your mommy's arms, I will smile; knowing that I helped a miracle be born. I will watch you grow, and gladly listen to all the stories your mommy will tell. I will fill my wall with pictures of you. I will be there to help spoil you (although I'm sure no help will be needed). You are so special, and I am so lucky to have been chosen to help you find your way to where you belong... Your mommy and daddy's loving, longing arms. So I am left now with my wish for you. I wish that you always know more happy than sad. That you always shed more smiles than tears. I hope you always follow your dreams, because it was on a dream that you were born. I hope you always know that someone loves you and the miracle of your life was based on that love, in its most pure form. I hope you grow to find contentment and love of your own. A love that both your Mommy, Daddy, Mr. Mitch and I were lucky enough to find. I wish that one day, when you are looking down on babies of your own, that you understand just how special you are, and how much love encircled you on the day YOU were born. Tomorrow will be a great day! Forever I will smile on January 31st because on it, I helped a miracle unfold. I love you more than will ever be possible to show. So while It will never be necessary for us to say goodbye, I do feel the need to say something. I will just leave it with this, a little poem I wrote for you. The day not ordinary, a day full of dreams, A life full of hope, so many things yet unseen. Your first breath, your first stare, your first grasp, I was there. I watched you find peace in your mommy's gently grip and watched as your daddy first touched your skin with his lips. So now sweet miracle, open your eyes, the whole world is upon you awaiting your surprise. I am always with you, I am always near, While not your mommy, I love you still and I promise you always that love you will feel. Happy birthday sweet angel, a day long over due... Happy birthday precious darling, this day belongs to you. With all my love.... Your Auntie Am...
Posted on 30 Jan 2007 at 8:24 AM
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Can't stop crying...
Joellyn Boggess Posted on 3 Feb 2007 at 4:51 PM
Oh Amber. I have kept up with this amazing journey since the beginning when I was beginning my IVF journey in January 2006. We now have beautiful twins...a boy and a girl. You are such an inspiration. Your letter to "bee" is truly priceless. God bless you and this wonderful gift you have given to the world.
31 Jan 2007
Very short post but WITH PHOTOS!!
Our darling Annabelle Grey was born today at 11:20am, 6 lbs 13 oz, 18.5 inches long and is just beautiful... Blonde hair including eyelashes.. too cute... We are all pretty beat but she has eaten twice today and seems to be a good eater.. she scored 9/9 on the apgar score and is resting very comfortably in daddy's arms.... So I know you all are anxous to see her so here she is!!
Posted on 31 Jan 2007 at 5:35 PM
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Phoyos
Dad R Posted on 31 Jan 2007 at 8:06 PM
You're all just too BEAUTIFUL. Except you, John. Dad R
Awwww
anonymous Posted on 1 Feb 2007 at 6:32 PM
What a beautiful baby girl! Congratulations to all of you. Enjoy every moment of mommyhood. Take lots of pictures because they grow up so fast. You are now Mommy and Daddy what a beautiful site it is. Your surro angel is heaven sent.
photos
Joellyn Boggess Posted on 3 Feb 2007 at 4:54 PM
She is so beautiful!
She's beautiful!
Great Uncles Hap and Keith Posted on 5 Feb 2007 at 4:44 PM
We are so excited for you guys. Can't wait to meet her! Love ya!
31 Jan 2007
One more...
Dear daddy felt left out that he didnt have his photo of just him holding Annabelle! haha
Posted on 31 Jan 2007 at 6:57 PM
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Comgratulations
Michelle Posted on 2 Feb 2007 at 12:40 AM
This Journal was forwarded to me from a Military wife who is a dear friend and currently a surromommy, 30 weeks along with twin boys. I am moved to tears by your jouney, as my and husband & I struggle to have a second child after many losses, and a great struggle to get our son safely here on this earth. I just want to say thanks for sharing, as we explore our options. BTW Annabelle looks just like her Daddy, so sweet.. Enjoy your bliss you so deserve it. My blessings and prayers go out to all of you. Also I laughes hard at your dog/cat banter as we have 2 of each. I feel your pain, and LONG LIVE THE SOUTH, PATRIOTISM & RUPUBLICANS!!LOL Thanks again for sharing your jouney, it has touched my heart and welcome to the world Baby BEE!! Tim, Michelle & Sean Meacham Oh Please keep us updated on your dear friend's pregnancies, I am keeping them in my prayers, I unfortunately know the struggle and loss so close to my heart. I am routing for them.
2 Feb 2007
Our first night as a family of three!
Well... We made it home (aka the hotel across the street) yesterday around 3:00. I dont think I will count this as her first road trip nor as her "going home" trip.. That will be tomorrow... and possibly the next day combined... Today is John's 41st birthday, his best ever he tells me (happy birthday honey) and our darling Annabelle has made life rather easy for us so far.. we joke that she knows her mommy and daddy are old and that she has to be a good baby (at least for the time being, knock on wood) so she slept for 4 hours and was awakened by me just to make sure she was ok, she ate and went right back to sleep for another 3 hours so we got about 7 hours of sleep last night and are both THRILLED!! considering we havent slept any in a few days .... Today is also Luke's birthday (Elizabeth's hubby) so Happy Birthday to you too!! Yesterday at the hospital was a tough day for me (and probably Amber too) ... I just fell apart and started sobbing... I am sure it was beacuse I just realized Annabelle is ours (OMG) and that we are totally responsible for her well being... And because we had 11 people in the room and I just lost it... It was so overwhelming.... I know some of you may wonder why I would tell this part of our journey, one of me feeling like I can't do it and that I am freaking out about the fact I am now a mommy but I am do it for those that might not realize it is normal... (THANK YOU Amber for rescueing me and helping me realize this fact) and let me tell you, it is quite the way to get a room cleared... hahaha.. just sit on the couch and start bawling... :) Anywhoo... I am 1000% better today... now dont get me wrong, I still feel that surge of adrenaline when she coos and Lord know I feel like I just ran a marathon when she cries but I quickly calm down as soon as I look at her adorable face... and YES she is perfect!! I just cant believe how perfect she is... I dont have any more photos because I have no way to download them now but will post more when we get home and Amber might post some too.. she has some great ones just after birth of me in, yet again, tears... Amber is doing well too... I spoke to her last night as she was pumping and just about to get her milk in for us to take with us... we have been mixing what she pumps with formula so far and it seems to be working out fine.. we are so thrilled to have Amber pump for us... yet another amazing gift from Auntie Am... I know it was hard leaving the hospital yesterday for her, a change in the tide so to speak.. it was the first time she had been away from Annabelle in 9 months and the first time we were with her... we all cried.... but we all understood that was going to be an emotional moment for all of us... Currently Annabelle is with her Gran, O'daddy and Grammy (with John inthe room on his blackberry) sitting looking out the window.. She is eating really well and just loves her binkie... She has amazing dark green eye but I know they will change.. (I hope they look like John's beautiful blue eyes) We have a visit with Laura and Rachel today (our attys) to finialze the process of getting me on the birth certificate... then I think we are going to have a little dinner party for John's birthday.. I am going to run back up stairs and take a deep breath..... I cant wait for those of you in Tennessee (and else where) to see here in person... We are just so in love with her... Sharelle and Elizabeth are both just behind us... Sharelle 10 weeks and I think Elizabeth 13 weeks so here we go with the baby brigade!! Both are doing well and I KNOW they will be ready and willing to come 'Annabelle' sit soon after we get home... at least they are certainly welcome to come get some practice changing diapers and feeding... Take care to all of you, THANK YOU for being so interested in us and our joy... I will certainly keep updating here about Sharelle and Elizabeth as well about Annabelle!! We love you Amber !!! and will NEVER be able to repay you for what a precious gift from God you have given us... You did the most wonderful job of bringing her to us and we will NEVER forget that love... Please keep us in your prayers tomorrow as we make our 750 mile drive home (quite the "ride home from the hopstial" story we get to tell) and for Gran and O'daddy's flight back to North Carolina... we certainly appreciate all of them!! andwe'll keep you all posted on all that goes on in the Evans' home!! Carolyn (John & Annabelle)
Posted on 2 Feb 2007 at 10:46 AM
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notdoneyet Posted on 5 Feb 2007 at 3:30 PM
Congratulations! I've followed your story the whole way and I'm so excited for you to finally be a mom.
5 Feb 2007
5 States, 728 miles, 12 hours and only 3 days old...
Well.... we made the long trek home Saturday and actually made it with ease... Only an hour longer than we have made it just the two of us so I consider that not so bad! Annabelle was really easy, we stopped 4 times to feed and change her (which was much more challenging for us doing it in the car) but all and all we were all thrilled it didn't take two days... I am so happy to be home and we had yet another first day home Saturday night... Papa was here to meet us and take grammy home and he got to see his little Annabelle for the first time.. I got some really cute photos of the two of them... Mom had yet another hour drive home but make it and spent today shopping for pink "preemie" clothes as all our newborn stuff is kind of large for our little angel... Sharelle and Randy came up yesterday to watch the superbowl (YEAH COLTS!! I KNEW YOU COULD DO IT PEYTON!!!) and of course meet their newest niece... Sharelle is now 7 months preggers so in just 3 months we';; have another little one added to the family!! Andrea brought over dinner for us for the superbowl and it was so yummy (as did Christy on Saturday night among other things... (thank you so much)) but as soon as Randy and Sharelle left, and we decided to go to bed, Annabelle decided to eat and stay awake for the next few hours... (not quite mommy or daddies schedule choice) and woke or stirred like Amber has told us from 10p-1am or so as if it was romper room time... she has been eating 1.5-2 oz every 2.5-3 ours but last night she decided she wanted more and after 30 minutes of crying we figured that out!! (talk about stress) poor John was up with her and felt so bad he couldn't make her happy... now we'll at least try food to see if maybe she is wanting more... Tonight, I am going to prepare to be up again in the middle of the night until she gets her days and nights back on track... :) (So mommy and daddy can have energy for company... ) John is just amazing... he really is a GREAT daddy... Thank you honey for being so wonderful... The times I start to freak-out about the responsibility of being here alone with her while he is at work and when he deploys (which I really just cant even think about right now without needing to throw up) he calms me down and I realize all the things he may miss.. the first words, steps giggles.. all he may miss... I do still have panic feelings about it all (which I realize are normal) but it doesn't compare to what he must feel to he possibility of missing the little things... I love you John... So very much... The cats have been really good.. It has been close to the top on my stress list of them rejecting her and being mean, ask Christy's Annabelle and she'll tell you they aren't that fond of little people, but they have really been great... I sat in their room and ate dinner Saturday night (remember I have been away for 2 weeks and they are my babies.. ) and just cried worrying about how they would react. They hissed when we got home but I think that was more because they were alone and all of the sudden we had 4 adults, two of which they aren't really used to, and a little person with all kinds of new smells.. But they have been nothing but wonderful.. Colby more curious and Ashley a tad unsure of why she cant sit in my lap every time I am sitting on the couch.. her usual location... so John and I swap up so the cats can have some lap time with momma too!! ha-ha.. I talked to Amber today and she seems to be doing well.. Pumping like crazy and has (at the time I talked to her earlier) 88 oz in the freezer getting ready for shipping... She is already planning her trip here in a few weeks... Today we spent all day, well most of it, getting Annabelle in DEERS and Tricare (military insurance) so she is official and ready to go to her appointment.. which should be next week sometime... I am downloading some photos we took tonight so I will try to attach them... Here are some photos from today and yesterday... I have more of O'daddy on my other camera, but I cant find the charger and the battery is dead.. I will post more when my new charger gets here.. :) Thank you all so much for your support and prayers... keep those coming for the sleepless nights ahead... Love to you all and we'll keep everyone posted as often as I can get on here!!Carolyn, John and now Annabelle!!
Posted on 5 Feb 2007 at 8:30 PM
8 Feb 2007
Answered Prayers
Well, it has taken me a while to post this entry as our precious Annabelle was a week old yesterday. How fortunate that O'Daddy and I were able to fly to Wichita for her birth. We arrived 30 minutes after she made her debut thanks to the airline delaying our luggage availability. Then we drove to the hospital in snow and ice - not to be daunted by any obstacles in our path. O'Daddy did have to tell me to "zip it" as I was trying to tell him how to drive (imagine that) because I didn't think he was getting there fast enough. When we got to the hospital, the whole gang was there with faces aglow and wide grins from ear to ear. The proud Daddy met us at the door of the hospital. Our little Annabelle was crying - the sweetest sound I could hope to hear. She was a perfect, beautiful, petite little girl. I was especially happy that we now have a second granddaughter (don't get me wrong-I love my 3 grandsons, after all I had 3 sons of my own) but now Haley will have another female to level the playing field when the 5 Evans cousins get together. And now for my heartfelt thanks. First, to God for answering our prayers and for breathing the breath of life into our sweet little Annabelle, and to others who prayed with us for nine months (or should I say 18 months). Second, my thanks to John and Carolyn (Mommy and Daddy) for pursuing the amazing option of IVF Surrogacy. I know it took a lot of patience, determination and financial resources to see it through. And last but not least, my eternal gratitude to Amber and Mitch for the sacrifices they made to make it possible, as well as being the very best of friends to John and Carolyn. I will never be able to adequately express my gratitude to you ( God Bless you both -you are good people). And now we look forward to watching our little girl grow surrounded by so many people who love her. Gran
Posted on 8 Feb 2007 at 8:56 AM
10 Feb 2007
An Amazing day... Annabelle's Birthday!
I think it is safe for me to write this now without being a ball of hormones. It has been 10 days since I gave birth to precious Annabelle and my life and heart could not be more full of love and pride! I hope I cover everything... pardon me however if some of my details are a bit skewed... I'm sure Carolyn will be able to help fill in some of my blanks when she herself writes her version of Annabelle's birth! January 31, 2007. I woke up at 4:30 A.M. to spend my last few hours preparing mentally for the events that were soon to follow. I took a long hot shower and played in my mind how this amazing journey had unfolded and dreamed of what was still yet to come. I spoke to BEE and expressed just how much I loved him/her and how I couldn't wait to watch and help him/her grow. I told BEE that SOON, VERY SOON, he/she would be safe and snug in Mommy's loving arms and I would be there to watch and look on with pride. By this time I realized that I had daydreamed nearly an hour and I was supposed to be at the hospital in 30 mins.... MY, OH MY! I hadn't even woke my husband up yet. I scurried around trying to gather myself in a few short moments and rushed out the door to meet the brutal cold, and what was this? SNOW!!! Yes, it was snowing! Something that had always brought me peace and contentment, I knew then it would be a GREAT day!!! We arrived at the birth center 10 after 6 and were greeted by Carolyn and Grammy (C's mom). I signed my paperwork and off we went with the nurse to our room. Once there I settled into my designer hospital gown and began the process of starting the induction... They drew my blood, put in my IV, began to monitor my bp, and my contractions and waited on word from the doctor. The nurse was concerned because my blood pressures were a bit on the high side and she kept calling the on-call resident for advice. Finally, she reached my OB, the amazing Dr. Rogers, and was instructed to start my Pitocin drip. They did and I began to walk the halls to aid the Pitocin. The time I spent walking the halls are something that I will always remember. I spent time with EVERYONE who was there, just talking, laughing, and loving each and every one of them. Carolyn paced the floors with me and with each contraction I could sense her anticipation growing. I tried to make light of everything I could, knowing that soon enough it would become a very intense environment. I even named my IV pole... He was Fred and I was Ginger... Problem was, Fred had two left feet and was nearly impossible to easily push down the halls! By about 9 A.M. my contractions were coming every 2 mins and I could tell that Annabelle was posterior presentation given the amount of pain in my lower back.... I rocked, huddled, squatted in a forward position as much as I could hoping to coax dear sweet to turn around and make birth a little easier for both she and I! We were still waiting for the resident OB to make his way to my room to break my water when Dr. Roger's called for an update. The nurse told here about my contractions and that my water still had not been broke. About 15 minutes later, to my surprise, my Dr. showed up in my room and said it was time to get the show on the road. I layed down and tried to prepare myself for the serious turn in the tide that was about to take place. I knew once my water was broke my pain level would increase dramatically. At 9:53 my water was broke and as I had predicted, my pain went from mild to OH MY!!! Having never had an epidural I contemplated whether or not I would get one now. I finally decided that I did want one. I wanted a smooth, calm, quiet delivery. Not one like my own daughters who were chaotic and in my opinion, incoherent. I told my nurse that I indeed did want an epidural and braced myself to wait for relief as with each contraction my pain intensified... While waiting for the anesthesiologist, I began to feel an increasing since of pressure. I told my nurse who promptly checked me and informed me I was still a 3 but that the baby had and was continuing to move downward. Finally the anesthesiologist arrived and I prepared to receive my epidural. Carolyn was AMAZING! I know she wasn't crazy about being around that huge needle and the procedure but she sat with me, held me, and comforted me as the process took place. At this point my contractions were coming very strong and very close together. I kept telling myself that it wouldn't be much longer until I had relief as did Carolyn. They finished my epidural and did the "poke and prick" test... I was told to tell the nurse anesthetist when I felt it go from a poke to a prick (like a needle) Well... I guess she didn't believe me when everytime she pricked me I said OUCH!!! I could feel my entire stomach, my feet were barely tingling, much like the sensation of sitting too long in one position, and my thighs felt little more than fatigued. Not having done this before I really didn't know what to expect. This must be normal, I thought, I won't feel the next one.... All things I kept telling myself as the pain magnified. It must have been about this time that I began to sound like a multitude of zoo animals. I remeber laying on my side, holding Carolyn's hand and trying to grunt away the pain. Breath, grunt, groan... Poor John must have been so confused watching and listening to the low belted sounds coming from my bed. My nurse decided to check me once again and found that I was a 5 and fully effaced. I remember telling Carolyn to get ready, because she would be meeting her little one SOON! Within about 3 contractions later, I told my nurse I felt like I needed to push. They had just given me a second, stronger dose through my epidural catheter in hopes to numb the area somewhat... Once again, no luck. I could still feel everything. I was told it wouldn't be much longer and I was checked once again. This time, I was complete and ready to start pushing... as soon as a doctor arrived! I wanted to push so bad, I could feel little Annabelle pressing down and the pain was becoming nearly unbearable. I remember looking up once and seeing Carolyn in tears. She kept telling me how sorry she was that I was in pain. I tried to reassure her that I was okay and that it was necessary. She stayed by my side, holding my hand, touching my face, putting cold compresses on my head. I couln't have asked for better support. Finally I heard someone say, "The Dr. just pulled into the parking lot, not much longer". It still seemed like forever as I tried to hold back the urge to push. Finally, in came Dr. Rogers. I was so relieved. I continued to grunt and groan through the contractions until finally I was told okay, let's go. My dr. told the nurse to put my legs into the stirrups. Well... Perhaps I was just a little overly anxious but I did it myself and that's when I was asked by my doctor if I could still feel my legs... I replied yes, and the room began to scurry just a little faster under the command of my doctor to get me delivered because I could feel everything. At last, I was told to push... And I DID! Once, TWICE, and then told to stop and just give a little push! I did and that is when I saw her.... Beautiful, blonde, baby girl staring right at me!!! 11:20 I heard cried out, the time of Annabelle's birth. I looked up at Carolyn who was crying with joy. She tearfully announced to the room. "It's a GIRL!" I heard John ask, "It's a girl?" and could hear the tears in his voice. Annabelle let out a great cry and I watched as Carolyn, trembling, cut her daughter's cord. They took the baby to the isolette and things became a little fuzzy for me. I began trembling and shaking uncontrollably. I felt very weak and dizzy. There is a lot during this time that is just a blur. I do remember Carolyn telling me thank you and showing me her beautiful daughter. I remember my mom telling me how great of a job I had done; Joyce (C's mom) thanking me and hugging me and my husband worried as could be, standing by my side and holding my hand. I remember hearing my doctor call out for Hemocrit twice and feeling the awful pain of them kneading my uterus and trying to find where the blood was coming from. Finally, the bleeding stopped and I began to be a little more aware of my surroundings. My doctor said I had lost quite a bit of blood but would be okay and continued to clean me up. Carolyn brought Annabelle to me to hold and I was immediately in love. She was Beautiful and PERFECT! I was weak but PROUD! I watched as the new family acquainted themselves to one another. A family of 3.... We had done it! They looked Amazing together. Annabelle was where she belonged! Gran and O'Daddy arrived (John's parents), and the feeling of love that filled that room was breathtaking! I couldn't imagine a child being greeted with any more love or admiration than sweet Annabelle. They finally weighed Annabelle and we were all surprised to see 6 pounds 13 ounces, 18 1/2 inches long. She was a great size for just being 37 weeks but smaller than we had anticipated. The nurse lead Carolyn and John to the sink were Annabelle got her first bath and mom and dad their first real opportunity to SEE their daughter. Without all the bundling, just their sweet little girl. The day continued on and with each hour I felt better and better. I began to pump immediately for Annabelle and she showed a ferver for eating! We all shared a room that night. Carolyn, John, My husband, myself, and dear sweet Annabelle. I am so thankful for that time. I was able to watch their first night as a family. They did a Wonderful job! Annabelle was passed from one person to another and in the first 24 hours of her life spent no more than an hour total out of someones arms! : ) The entire experience was a MIRACLE! First, to find Carolyn and John. Then to find family in them. Giving birth to Annabelle was adding a member to the family. OUR FAMILY. I will always look back on Annabelle's birthday and remember the way it felt to see Carolyn smile, John hold his daughter, Annabelle sleep in her parents' arms. She is an amazing little girl and I can't wait to share in each milestone she crosses! Thank you John for being an amazing support to Carolyn and a great friend to Mitch and I! You are a WONDERFUL daddy and I look forward to seeing all of the fun times ahead of you with your daughter! Carolyn, I don't know where to even begin... Thank you for being my best friend, My sister!!! Thank you for the late night chats, the reassurance that I was doing everything I could. Thank you for letting me be Auntie. For calling me daily and letting me in on even the littlest things in life. Thank you for letting me carry your daughter! I am forever changed by you all! To my husband. Hunny, thank you so much for always standing by my side. For helping me realize my dreams and encouraging me with love and a gentle hand. I know it wasn't always easy to put up with my mood changes, aching back, swollen feet, and overall disgruntled disposition the last few weeks but you did it and never made me feel bad. You are my rock, my strength, my best friend, and my lifelong love. To my girls, Bailey and Meghan... Mommy loves you! Thank you for being there to put a smile on my face when I needed one and a kiss on lips before I even had to ask! You two are my dreams come true! Annabelle.... Thank you for letting me be your surromommy and Auntie! You are such a special and amazing little girl. I hope you always know the love that was shared by so many to bring you to your mommy and daddy's arms! Annabelle's birthday was a day that changed me forever. It was the conclusion to the first chapter in a series of happiness in her life's book. I am so blessed to have been a part of it.
Posted on 10 Feb 2007 at 2:40 PM
14 Feb 2007
Annabelle's 2 week appointment!!
Well today we had our first real doctors appointment.. our 2 week exam and she is just wonderful... She now weighs 7 pounds, is 20 inches long and her head has grown by .5 inch.. we were told she is right at the 50th percentile so we are thrilled!! The dr did mention hearing the heart murmur (so, now two have heard it but one didnt) so we are going to have an EKG scheduled to check it out.. no one seemed concerned so I am not going to be... :) I didnt much like the office waiting room with all the kids hacking up Lord knows what while my little angel sits there exposed to all that garbage but we did like the dr so ... next time I may just sit in the hallway and have them come get me!! Amber has sent her first shipment of breast milk, a total of 320 ounces!! so we had to go buy a deep freezer to store it! no kidding... and Annabelle has enjoyed it for 24 hours now.. it is amazing the difference in her poo when on breast milk.. nice.. haha... Today, John and I are enjoying a night as a family of three.. Annabelle's first holiday... and we had a yummy dinner brought over by a dear friend in the unit!... along with some adorable bee items!! (thank you Danielle, yet another pregnant lady!!) Yeah!! Annabelle still hasnt quite figured out the difference between day and night so we were up all night, about every 2 hours or so, feeding, changing or just holding our little one.. but that is ok.. we dont mind... I am going to head to the tub before American Idol comes on but I wanted to update you all on today's appointment... Love to you all!! Carolyn
Posted on 14 Feb 2007 at 7:27 PM
25 Feb 2007
Sorry it has been a while
Yes, I have had my hands full with darling Annabelle but the reason I have been absent from posting updates is because 5 of our soldiers were killed in action 17 Feburary and needless to say that has taken much of our time... and basically all of John's... John and Carolyn Sr were planning to come into town this weekend, for a long weekend, but we asked them to come early as John knew I would need help around here with Annabelle ... Mom came up Sunday to watch her while John and I visited the families of our lost soldiers and John and Carolyn Sr arrived Tuesday afternoon just in time for me to head out for a meeting and then for the Memorial on Wednesday... It has been a blessing beyond words to have them here, especially Carolyn who has willingly offered to get up with Annabelle every other night (and more than that actually) so we could be somewhat rested for the Memorial and such... I dont know how we would have ever made it with out that help! THANK YOU A MILLION TIMES OVER.... John is heading out for a trip around the country attending the funerals and I will be attending one with him at Arlington in early March... The next few weeks are going to be very emotional for many of my friends and for John and the guys in the unit.. Please pray for their stregnth... and a big thank you to all the ladies that have helped out during this time.. unfortunately we have experience in taking care of families of our fallen.. You know who you are !! I am so amazed at how much love you have for one another and for all the families... There are NO ladies I'd rather be friends with than you !! I am sorry to those that have checked here looking for updates.. as you can see we just haven't had time/energy or quite frankly the heart to post.... Annabelle is doing wonderfully.. she is just a doll and Gran has eaten her up!! O'daddy has had his share too but Gran gets most of her attention.. We plan to go to NC to visit the rest of the Evans family for Easter so we are very much looking forward to getting out of the house and to seeing everyone! (Hi all!!) I am going to attach some more recent photos of our darling.. She is now 3 weeks and 5 days old!!! WOW...I hope you are all well and PLEASE pray for our fallen/wounded and especially for the families left behind.... Love always Carolyn, John and Annabelle!
Posted on 25 Feb 2007 at 7:33 PM
4 Mar 2007
One month!!
Well.. here we are, somewhat getting back to normal (whatever that is) and getting on some type of routine... Annabelle is sleeping about 3 or so hours at a time, sometimes longer sometimes shorter but on average 3 at night... she is just growing like a little monster.. a very cute monster mind you... haha... Yesterday we weighed her at mom and dads (being that there isn't 31 days in February this would be her one month weigh in) and she topped the scales at 9 Lbs and 14 oz!! WOW... just over two weeks ago she was only 7 Lbs... no wonder we have been getting up at all hours of the night to feed the "hungry monkey"... Too cute.. she is getting those classic chubby cheeks and thighs and they are cute enough to eat... I will try to post a new photo today sometime but right now I have to go shower and get food for dinner.. As far as the FRG aspect of life.. it too is gearing back to a normal pace.. we have a meeting this week to talk about what happened over the course of the past few weeks the good the bad and the ugly in addition we are going to Arlington for the final funeral (mom gets Annabelle for two days) and the day we arrive home are hosting a farewell to some of the best FRG leaders and soldiers... some we are losing and others that are just stepping to the next building on the compound.. Yeah... There is always something going on it seems.. I haven't quite figured out how to do the Annabelle thing and still do my normal life activities but it is soon to come I am sure.. we did venture to Wal-Mart the other day because we needed more newborn diapers (yes, that is three+ cases in one month) and we did go to Luke and Elizabeth's last night for dinner (and to celebrate Christmas a tad late) and let Annabelle meet Connor, who isn't due to meet her until May 17th or so... Dewayne, Jessica and Luke.. Elizabeth met her the other day when I dropped by her office on the way to Nashville.... so we are gradually getting out of the house.... Amber will be here this Friday for a weekend visit, alone... I think she is in need of some baby Annabelle time and needs a very short break from two toddler time... Love you guys... Mitch was going to have daddy duty alone but his mom is going to come and save the day and help out... Amber and I will have lots of things to do that weekend as I have to go see my oncologist that morning, stop by the office and then Saturday afternoon go to Sharelle's shower!! YEAH... I get to buy more baby stuff.. I never knew how much fun that would be... and I know Amber is getting excited to shop for her too... then she will head back to KS on Sunday. bummer... but it was be so wonderful to get to see her again... Next we are off to NC to see the rest of the Evans' family for Easter... I cant believe it is so soon this year and yes, Gran, Annabelle misses you and you wont believe how much bigger she looks even from just last week... ok.. I gotta run and shower.. I swear I will call/email and see you guys soon.. maybe after we get back from Arlington... Love you all and keep Sharelle and Elizabeth in your prayers as well our soldiers in harms way to protect our freedom!! Carolyn (Annabelle and John)
Posted on 4 Mar 2007 at 10:03 AM
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Ali Posted on 17 Mar 2007 at 8:51 PM
Annabelle is an adorable name! over 9 pounds and 3 cases of diapers--sounds like she's doing wonderful! Congrats!!!
1 Apr 2007
Happy birthday Annabelle Grey!
Yes, Annabelle is now 2 months old!! wow.. seems like just yesterday we were still worrying and waiting for her to arrive.. We had a big day by going to Grammy and Papa's house and we got to see Uncle Randy and Kurt as well Nathan and Caroline!! Nathan was such a good big cousin... he even shared his favorite of all toys, "Peter" with Annabelle and kept kissing her and trying to make her smile.. It was so sweet... He will make a great daddy someday.. and I do have photos to attach as well... Well, it is Sunday, April fools day and John is still sleeping. He gets the night feedings so he will be more a part of the whole baby process (his choice mind you) so I get up early and let him sleep in... Today John plans to work on the house.. to get ready to sell it!!! why ??? we we have finally decided to move onto post.. it was really hard for me to give up the yard, deer and turkey out back but I really miss the neighborhood feel and with John's deployments and now Annabelle I really felt it was important to have people near that understood and could help if I needed it.. right now I wouldn't trust any of my neighbors with Stonewall let alone Annabelle... We are both excited about our first on post living experience... and, yes we'll let you know when the house warming party will be!! So, we are on the list and this summer we should be moving... Yeah.. John is even excited about it.. it will be less driving for everyone and he could even come home for lunch!! not to mention we will be moving into one of the new houses on post.. they are really quite nice and larger than our house now.. just with no basement.. but free ... Hmmmm I wonder what we are going to do with all our junk..?? haha.. So, I may go to mom's today but I may wait and go tomorrow... So... Annabelle gets to celebrate her first holiday this Sunday, Easter with Gran and O' daddy... We are all looking forward to her meeting the rest of the Evans'/Holt family ... and about getting to wear more cute bunny outfits! We had our first Dr appointment on post Friday but they scheduled it for APRIL 30th instead of March 30th and John was so hot about it... so we are going to have to call Monday and make another for earlier than April 30... needless to say, it wasn't the best first visit to post healthcare for me .. I hope it gets better... at least I know where it is now.. haha.. We did do a weigh in at mom and dads and she now weighs 12.5 Lbs.. almost double her birth weight by 2 months.. little chunker.. she is still eating like a monkey but has been a tad cranky with the allergies and all.. yes, she got those from daddy... Poor thing with the sneezes and snotty nose.. I has had me worried but she hasn't run a fever so I am going to try not to worry too much... She now smiles at you when you smile at her... and does her "cooing" .. It is so cute I could just eat her up!! Sharelle is on the down side of the hill.. she is now 37 weeks (the time Annabelle was born) and has just a few to go!! I am so excited but wish she would quit work so she can rest.. Elizabeth had her shower yesterday and it was so fun.. she racked up with goodies and it is apparent there are plenty of girlfriends for Connor to pick from but I know he will love Annabelle the best!! I cant think of anything else right now to update you on.. but I will post some photos!! Love you all and thank you for your prayers for our families of the fallen.. as well for each other.. Carolyn, John and Annabelle well... it seems I cant get photos to load today (bummer) but I will keep trying.. http://www.dotphoto.com/img/AlbumWrap/albumWrap_default.gif
Posted on 1 Apr 2007 at 6:15 AM
3 Apr 2007
Photos that I couldnt attach to the last entry
Here you go!! Sorry to do this in two entries... #1 Is Annabelle with Nathan's "peter" his most favorite posession...what a good cousin he is... Caroline was a tad jealous of his fondness of Annabelle and took peter away... She looks happy with Peter I'd say... #2 Is Nathan just after blowing kisses to Annabelle #3 is Nathan kissing Annabelle... #4 is Annabelle in her new hat! (thank you Laurie's mother in Law) #5 is Annabelle in her first dress up outfit from Auntie Amber, she wasnt in the mood to take a photo but I took one any way #6 is Annabelle on her first walk in the stroller (not the car seat in the stroller) #7 is Annabelle with Dewayne at Elizabeth's shower.. Hey.. you look cute holding a white baby D.... I think Jessica would make such a good mommy... wink wink..
Posted on 3 Apr 2007 at 6:42 AM
8 Apr 2007
Annabelle's First Easter
Hello Journal Faithful, HAPPY EASTER! It's Easter morning, and though we should probably be at church, we are waiting just a bit longer before we expose Bee-belle to the inevitable germs and viruses that are so prevailent this time of year. We know we can't protect her forever, but we want to make sure she is several months old before we start taking her into large crowds - besides, the cold and flu season is almost over! We are at my folk's (John's) house in Stoneville, NC and have had a large weekend. We just said goodbye to the last of the visiting cousins (Uncle Jason, Aunt Ginny, Cousin Haley and Cousin Daniel). It was a great weekend and a great visit for everyone. None of the family had met Annabelle (except for mom and dad) until this weekend, and it was wonderful to see the entire Evans and Holt clan welcome her to the family. We arrived late on Thursday after a 11-hour drive (on which she did very well), but woke up tired on Friday morning since Annabelle was fussy all night (it would seem that a baby that sleeps 9 hours in a car, does NOT need to sleep at night). Despite our tired state we took her to Greensboro to meet her only surviving pair of Great Grandparents. Granny and Papa just LOVED their time with her and she was a perfect angel the entire visit (she especially liked Granny, who after raising three generation of children, grandchildren and great grandchildren certain has the "touch"). When we returned to Stoneville both sets of Evans Aunt and Uncles were here and all four Evans cousins. Haley was especially enamored with the only other "girl" cousin in the family. It was a great night, full of catching up and passing the new baby around (she didn't mind too much - she knows love when she feels it). Saturday we went to my Aunt and Uncle's house in Reidsville and the rest of the extended family got to meet her. The kids went on their 3rd Easter egg hunt of the weekend while little Annabelle just watched and giggled. She had a chance to meet Uncle Bob, Aunt Diane, Uncle Hap, 2nd cousins Anna and Casey, Brian, Tabitha, Zachary and of course she got to see Granny and Papa again. It was a wonderful evening and she was quite tired by the time we got home. Unlike her first night here, she sleep for 7 HOURS last night without waking (we are giving her credit for a "sleep through the night" for that performance). The bigger she gets the more she sleeps. Today Carolyn and I are going shopping and to a rare movie, while Gran and Odaddy keep their littlest grandchild. I think it is a deal that we are all happy about. It will give Carolyn and I a small break, while giving Gran and Odaddy the time that they relish with Annabelle. Tomorrow we will start back to Clarksville and then it is back to work on Tuesday. All in all it was a GRAND weekend with the Evans clan, and we look forward getting the whole group together again in Sep/Oct for our big beach trip! Thanks for keeping up with our little miracle, and thanks for remembering all of our troops as they continue to fight so far away. God bless you all. John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 8 Apr 2007 at 9:17 AM
20 Apr 2007
Oh my .. what have we done??
Ok... it is official.. our house is on the market to sell...!!!! we met with the realtor today and it is already listed.. gees, I hope this times out ok with moving onto post but it is best to get started right a way right?? You know what this means?? I get to do another nursery!!!! YEAH YEAH YEAH.. I am so excited... I had so much fun with our "bee" room that I know the next one will be even more fun... It is bitter sweet, moving and all... I totally love the location of our house and ya'll have seen all the wildlife we have here... which I will very much miss.. but dear Annabelle needs a neighborhood that I can count on to be there for me (and her) when John is gone or just to hang out with.. Right now we just don't have that.. I don't know my neighbors and don't really want to... so... this summer we will know many of our neighbors as many are fellow unit members!! YEAH.. and yes, we will have a house warming party (after I get someone to help me decorate) Today John is off so we started doing home repair things.. you know, replace all the dry wall in the basement that Stone ate and stuff like that .. fun busy home improvements... ha-ha... He is currently at the Home Depot getting his goodies.. my handy man... (I hope he is hiring someone) Annabelle is just wonderful.. Sleeping though the night (got 9 hours last night) for over a week now so we are feeling very blessed... she is eating up to 34 oz of milk a day and is measuring in the 95th percentile.. chunky monkey.. she also has started showing her personality.. too cute with her giggles and pouts... too cute!! I will try to attach a photo... She doesn't have her 2 month appt until April 30 (three months old) so I don't have any "official" weights and measures but according to mine she is doing just fine!! This weekend Kurt and the kids are going to be here for the Music City Marathon.. John was supposed to run too but he is going to have to go out of town and wont be able to run.. That is OK, Annabelle and I will cheer on Uncle Randy and Kurt as well Thomas !!! I thought about taking John's number but I don't think I would make it 5 miles.. Sharelle is still pregnant but due in just two weeks!!! yeah... we are very excited to meet the newest Ruppel baby!! and to find out who wins the bet of is it a boy or a girl.... Ok.. Annabelle is calling.. I gotta run.. Love you all and keep those soldiers in your prayers!! Carolyn, John and Annabelle!!
22 Apr 2007
No news, just photos of our darling
Here you go!! These were taken today before Church in an outfit Amber gave Annabelle when she was here last.. They look so cute, I just had to share!! Love you all Carolyn, John and Annabelle
24 Apr 2007
Lookie what I got to come home to!!
THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH STONEWALL.. and yet ANOTHER note in the we are never never never ever ever ever getting another dog song I like to sing! First, we will start with the gate John built after the second time he had to replace the screen door to the deck.. See those 2x4 going up and down on the door? well they used to stick up about 18 inches so stonewall (AKA stupid, yes, this is my PG term for him) couldn't get over it.. well, you can see he got over it by EATING THE 2x4... when will we learn that this stupid dog LIKES 2x4s??? Second is the back door to the deck, ya'll know the one... that has been replaced TWICE (or maybe three times now... I have lost count) well here we go!... no longer a door I'd say... Third.. a BONUS... whoooo hooooo!!! Crap for me to clean up!!! THANK YOU SOOOOOO MUCH FOR THAT BONUS STONE.... and oh, yes... there was plenty more than that little nuggett.. yippee! &%%*&^$##^&(*@^@%#*($^$& Fourth MORE BONUS.... BLOOD ALL OVER THE FREAKING DECK... YEAH YEAH YEAH happy dance !! whooo hooo... I love blood and crap all over the deck carpet!! don't you?? happy happy happy ... Fifth.. no less the reason for the above said bonus of blood (and possibly bonus #1 as well) .. this is what used to be the screen that covered the window to the house.. oh and you can see the crap bonus in that photo too.. some of which was smashed into the screen on the deck and carpet.. yum.. Sixth... the other side of the deck.. next to the door to the inside.. not sure where stupid was going here but if ONLY HE HAD MADE IT THOUGH WE WOULDN'T HAVE TO DEAL WITH THIS AGAIN... yes, I said it and mean it.. Last but not least... Stupid and his new home.. where he will be spending the rest of his days both day and night.. and DONT ANY OF YOU feel sorry for him either... grrrrrrrr..... OH..... I almost forgot!!! I got a call like two minutes after getting home and seeing this monstrosity from the realtor who WANTS TO SHOW OUR HOUSE TONIGHT !!! YEAH!!!! and just in.. an extra bonus.. I just got a call, while typing this, that someone wants to show our house at 4:30.. that is 30 minuts from now and I had to say no.... why???? because of stupid.... Can ya smell the sarcasm yet?? I hate dogs.. I need some happy thoughts sent my way....
Posted on 24 Apr 2007 at 3:25 PM
25 Apr 2007
Life with a Dog
Personally, I think Cats and Thunderstorms stress him out . . . BUT . . . that is no excuse for his jackassery. John
30 Apr 2007
Annabelle's first shots and house info!
Well.. here it is, Annabelle is three months old and she had to go get shots today... 4 shots with 7 different vaccines.. all in all it wasn't so bad but it did break my heart to see her scream.. and ya'll know she isn't really a screamer.. a minute after the shot and as soon as I picked her up she was happy again and giggling in the waiting room... so she has the shots behind her (at least these) and is sleeping restfully right now but I expect to be up some tonight to check on her.. She weighed in at 13 lbs and 14 ounces, 24 inches long and the best of all news.. THE HEART MURMUR IS GONE!!! yeah... I was so thrilled about that... more good news.. we got an offer on the house today!! FULL ASKING PRICE!!! WOW... but they want my washer and dryer (this is kind of gross in my opinion) as well my refrigerator.. sniffles... I love my fridge... they cant have my deep freezer!! hahaha I have too much boob juice in there!! But the good news?? I get to buy A NEW FRIDGE AND NEW WASHER AND DRYER!! WHOOO HOOOO... so it looks like we will close July 17th or so but move on post the last week of June or first week of July!! I am soooo excited... but nervous at the same time... I mean, this is Annabelle's first house as well mine and John's together.. and my deer in the back are about to have babies and I am going to miss it.. sniffles... Oh... I need to go but I wanted to update you all on the blessings today!! one more thing.... Today was Sharelle's due date and as of now, she is still pregnant AND Elizabeth got an induction date of May 11!!! so babies, here we come!! :) just in time for mother's day!! LOVE LOVE LOVE you all and keep those prayers going!! C, A and J Funny, the last entry, John didnt tell me about that one.. silly silly boy.. Jackassery doesnt begin to cover it.. hahahaha
Posted on 30 Apr 2007 at 8:50 PM
15 May 2007
Mother's day and new babies
Well... I have to say Mother's day is pretty nice! haha... I finally get to celebrate it with the rest of you wonderful moms out there... I will attach a photo of what John and Annabelle got me at the end of this entry... So, Annabelle is now three + months old and has just started teething... yes... she has a tooth starting to grow and she is chewing and drooling on everything... too funny... and no, the drool isnt bothering me too badly... I mean, how can it? She is just too cute to worry about her drool... For mothers day we went to Atlanta for AAAA and to see Kurt, Sharon (finally got to see her and for her to meet Annabelle) Nathan and Caroline... we really had a good time and enjoyed the time with them... we all (minus John) did the Susan G Komen walk in Atlanta Saturday morning but darling AB really wasnt into the charity spirit and I had to take her back to the car at about the half way or so point.. Poor thing was just not happy and was making mommy unhappy too... so to the car with a little rocking she was out cold... thank goodness... Kurt made the most delicious Lamb dinner for Sharon and I that night, my first time eating lamb and I think I will have it again!! Yum... and then we all (minus Sharon, she was heading to the Dominican Republic) headed to Randy and Sharelle's for another dinner and for everyone to meet little Craven... He is just too cute and I just cant believe he is bigger than Annabelle was at that age... she has grown so much that I cant see her that little... but she was and even littler... (If that is word) I will attach photos of this as well... and then we finally made it home last night... Annabelle is quite the little traveler and hangs with the best when it comes to road trips... I almost forgot when we got home last night I discovered we left either the freezer drawer or refrigerator door open and everything was ruined in both locations... THANK GOODNESS we have the breast milk in the deep freezer... I would have just been sick if we had lost that too... but no... We also had another addition to the baby clan and that is Connor Pachciarz (I will attach a photo) yeah... and Elizabeth was only in labor 4 hours!! Wow unlike Sharelle who spent nearly a whole day in labor... Currently Annabelle has a little allergy issue with congestion but nothing a little saline cant fix... she has also found her voice and squeeks and squeels all the time.. It is so cute... i just love it... Ok.. I need to go download photos and get them on here!! Love you all and because of all your prayers all three of us are mommies just in time for mommy's day!! Carolyn (Annabelle and John) Here are the photos.. This one is of Annabelle and her new sunglasses.. This one is Annabelle with her new hat! Next is what John and Annabelle got me for mothers day! WOW... Next is my darling Craven Benton Ruppel!! and last but not least... Connor Alen Pachciarz
Posted on 15 May 2007 at 7:52 AM
15 May 2007
More photos of Annabelle and Mother's day
Here are a bunch more photos of Annabelle and the day at Randy's with Craven and Sharelle... Annabelle on her tummy One more on her tummy...She is getting ready to turn over I think!! just after tummy time... Annabelle at the walk .. one of the few times she was screaming.. haha Annabelle on Cravens "boppy" .. she looks so big to me... Grammy and Papa with their newest babies!! Annabelle and her shades in the yard! Mommy and Annabelle (and some of Nathan) with their shades on.. Craven with a gassy smile! Both new mothers on their first Mother's Day
Posted on 15 May 2007 at 4:59 PM
5 Jun 2007
One year ago... June 2006
It is hard to believe that it has been a year already that Annabelle was given life. June 1st 2006 was the day she was created... not the usual way but with more love and hope than I could have imagined possible... Today, June 5 one year ago was the day Annabelle was transferred to Ambers "loving tummy" and when Annabelle began feeling the love from all that surround her. One year ago this Friday June 8 is when we first found out that we were indeed pregnant!! with the first of MANY home pregnancy test Amber would send photos of.. One year ago June 13-14 John took command but more importantly, we were surrounded by family and friends when we all found out that we indeed had a positive beta, early because Amber just couldn't wait for the real first one! (for those non IVF'ers this means you are "officially" pregnant!) That day our world changed forever... One year ago June 16, 19 & 21 we had the other three beta tests and having higher and higher numbers! There was no doubt we were pregnant!!! YEAH... One year ago June 22nd I was welcomed to the unit and little did I know what a wonderful amazing group of women I was becoming a part of and the friendships that would come from that day! Not only that but finding out that we have our own little "IVF" club in the Darkhorse Battalion! One year ago June 30th we had our first Ultrasound and found that we were "officially" officially pregnant.. with TWO!!! One year ago July will be another post... haha... Here I sit with Annabelle 4 months old, growing each day in appearance and in personality! I am amazed how much she looks like her daddy and so thankful for that... She is no doubt a little Evans!! It is June 2007... Annabelle is 4 months old and here we are talking about starting a sibling project in just a few months!! wow... What a wonderful life... I love you all... hope you are all well and that God blesses you as He has blessed us.. Please keep our soldiers and their families in your prayers for there are many still in harms way.. Carolyn (John and Annabelle! Here are some photos... she loves to scream when I take her photo now so she has that look on her face.. too cute This last one I know John will just be thrilled that I shared with you all... It is of Annabelle getting to see her daddy get a bronze star (sort of,she started crying as soon as John started talkingso we both missed the whole ceremony... haha we are going to have to work on this)
Posted on 5 Jun 2007 at 8:21 AM
18 Jun 2007
One busy weekend... and BIG NEWS...
Well.. it seems our little girl is growing up! Last night (father's day non the less) Annabelle rolled over!!!! I had been recording her all evening because I knew she was close and I wanted to have it for John but I had turned the camera off and MISSED IT!!!! I didnt even see it, I went to the kitchen and came back in and she was on her tummy!! little stinker... but she did it this morning too and I got it on tape!! I am one proud mommy today!!! and cant wait for daddy to see how big his little girl has gotten!! Kurt, Nathan and Caroline were here this weekend and we has quite the busy weekend.. Safety Day on the compound, lots of Dipin Dots... Farmers Market and the water fountains, Jazz on the lawn with the Herreras, Randy, Sharelle, Craven, Kurt, Nathan and Caroline... nasty cigar smoke and waaaaayyyyyyy to many people, a sleep over at Aunt Carolyn and Uncle John's, Father's Day dinner at Grammy and Papa's and then the big roll over.... needless to say, we were all pretty beat and ready for some rest!! Love to you all.. I gotta go clean out some stuff for the big move ... this time next week!!! Here are some photos from the weekend... Carolyn (and Annabelle)
Posted on 18 Jun 2007 at 8:23 AM
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I am so proud!
Auntie Am Posted on 18 Jun 2007 at 6:07 PM
Annabelle, I am SO PROUD of you big girl.... I am a proud Auntie! Before you know it you'll be up and rockin' on all four and then you will be off and mom will forever be looking over her shoulder (and under the couch :) LOL) Love and Miss you guys! Auntie Am
25 Jun 2007
4 Times a charm?
Ok.. I REALLY didn't think I would be posting about this ONCE AGAIN but here I am... for the 4th time I am letting you know just what a joy it is to have a dog in the house.. Stone, once again, has eaten his way onto the back deck.. this time through the wall instead of the door (good thing, it is cheaper to replace) but he did chew up the window eave and part of the 2x4 that holds the deck up... not to mention the electric socket and two screens... and yes, I had the bonus once again (turds) on the deck but no blood thankfully... I keep thinking if he gets so freaked out about thunder... why doesn't he just had a stroke or heart attack?? com'mon... So the packers are here... two more days and we will officially be moved to post! I am very excited but a tad nervous at the same time with how everyone will react.. the cats, Annabelle and last but certainly not least, Stonewall.. I mean he will have all new things (that we don't own) to destroy.. and new neighbors (that we know and like) to piss off with his barking and howling... Keep us in your prayers that he has something happen that will induce a sense of calm in him because I really don't know how to deal with him anymore.. other than hanging him from the nearest tree... Gran and O'Daddy are arriving today to watch our little bee.. I know they will all have a great time!! Annabelle is so much fun right now she will for sure keep them giggling.. One sad note, Ginny (my sister in law) lost her mother yesterday so please keep her and her family in your prayers.. as well O'Daddy has gout in his foot so he is in need of a few prayers too.. Love you all and miss you too!! Carolyn (John and Annabelle) I will spare you the photos of the mess.. and just give you some of Annabelle.. that makes me much happier anyway... By jcevans, shot with u710,S710 . By jcevans, shot with u710,S710 . By jcevans, shot with u710,S710 .
Posted on 25 Jun 2007 at 9:40 AM
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16 Jul 2007
Free and Clear!
Hello Faithful Readers, I know it has been several weeks since we have posted, but we have been CONSUMED with the move onto post and the sale of our house in Clarksville. We had a wonderful visit with my mom and dad when they came out in the last week of June. We truly could not have managed Annabelle, the move and prepping the old house without their help. I think we both got a good deal - we were baby-free for those times when it would have been difficult if not impossible to manage an infant, and Gran and ODaddy got to spend almost an entire week with Annabelle. Thanks so much, Mom and Dad, for taking that on and helping us out. Our move was relatively uneventful and we are firmly established on post now. We really enjoy the new neighborhood, the house itself is great and the proximity of my work place, the PX and the commissary make things MUCH easier all the way around. We really are enjoying the fact that when the time comes, we can pack up and leave without having to worry about "selling" our house. Stonewall, Colby and Ashley all seem to be adjusting well. As of today - 16 July 2007 - we are no longer home owners. As strange as it may sound we are PROUD to be living in Government Subsidized Housing :-P Actually, it is just incredibly nice to be COMPLETELY debt-free for the first time in our adult lives. We closed on the house this morning and took the check straight to the bank. The 11 years of equity we built will serve us well as we look to purchase some new "stuff" for the new house. Carolyn has already been online furniture shopping today! Now that we have only one residence to worry about, we can finally unpack those last few boxes, make those last couple of runs to the dump, set things aside for the big post-wide yardsale in the Fall and make our house a home. Carolyn and I are both very excited at the prospect, and tickled to finally be FREE AND CLEAR! Our love and thanks go out to Amber, Mitch, Bailey and Meghan, and as always our thoughts and prayers go out to our servicemen and women who continue to stand in harm's way to keep us all safe. Please say a special prayer for my Soldier, Chuck, who was seriously injured in our accident in February, but is making significant progress in his recovery, and continue to keep the families of our fallen in your thoughts and prayers. John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 16 Jul 2007 at 4:19 PM
10 Sep 2007
A whole new world....
Well.... Yesterday was the day I realized my Annabelle was growing up... why yesterday, you ask? While I was washing her bottles last night Annabelle was playing on her blanket, or so I thought, I looked down and there she was in the kitchen with me, she crawled !!! Granted, it wasn't more than about 10 feet but IT WAS 10 FEET!!!! She is now on the move and today I spent shopping for gates, drawer hooks and cabinet latches.... my little girl is growing so fast... booo hoooo... She has been feeling a tad under the weather the past week or so, with a slight fever and snotty nose.. this caused us to have to cancel her 6 month (yes, she is 7.5 months) shot appointment and reschedule them for a few weeks from now.. everyone tells me it is ok for her to be behind on her shots but I like to be as scheduled and, well, we aren't.. She seems to be ok, I think it is just allergies... happy as a lark like normal.. Annabelle and I are heading to Uncle Kurt and Aunt Sharon's this weekend and we are both looking forward to seeing the gang in Atlanta! Kurt, you better be on your toes with her crawling now!! SHe is also eating well too.. Granted I dont feed her baby food like I should (everyday) but when I do feed it to her she really likes it .. Ok.. I have to run (after Annabelle) and get to installing all 15 drawer/cabinet latches.. gees.. Please keep all our soldiers in your prayers... their families as well... And stayed tuned for some exciting news in the near future!! Love to you all... Carolyn (John and Annabelle)
Posted on 10 Sep 2007 at 5:21 PM
10 Sep 2007
New photos
Here are a few newer photos (Most from August) Some not the most flattering of my darling but still cute to me !! By jandcevans By jandcevans By jandcevans
24 Sep 2007
Makin' baby food
Hello faithful journal readers... I know I don't need to say "sorry" for not posting as often as I should but sorry anyway... Life it busy but y'all know that and most of you are in the same boat! So we have been feeding Annabelle baby food... not as often as we should but getting better at feeding her at least once a day (food that is, something other than a bottle of formula, we feed her daily, haha) so she has had carrots, green beans, sweet potatoes, peas and squash.. all of which she likes with exception of squash and John doesn't blame her! so I decided that it was time to make my own.. I have two books (thanks for the gifts Tina) that have many recipes so I got them out and started last night... Being new to the whole parent thing I really didn't realize what babies CAN eat... granted she is almost 8 months old and can have more now than before but then we really haven't followed the "rules" of what babies can and cant have.. I know, shame on us.. but the way I see it, she has tasted many foods and maybe, just maybe she will be one of those that will eat anything... so far she likes bread, crackers, avocado, cantaloupe, artichoke heart, butternut squash, sweet potato casserole and the less good for you, ice cream (no lectures about milk, it was a tiny amount) York peppermint patty (thank John for this one) whipped cream, cheese cake with blueberry sauce (Christy it was wonderful!) and I am sure many other things she isn't "supposed" to have... I realize we are lucky she wasn't allergic and I guess we just took our chances with finding out but I decided that I (we) didn't want her to be a picky eater and wanted to expose her to different foods early... So on to my home made baby food.. I started with broccoli, she hasn't had any yet but will as soon as we return from the beach and I also made corn (fresh from the farm this summer that I had frozen) she LOVES the corn.. but why not? it is rather sweet.. if I hadn't made it myself I would have sworn it had sugar in it! anyway mixed with some formula it is pretty good.. The broccoli tastes good too but she hasn't tried it yet.. next will be spinach, carrots, potato and butternut squash... it was really fun to make and I am very excited about her eating what I make and know is healthy, no laughing considering John feeds her York's.. but there has to be a balance between good and bad... She is quite the crawler now.. she is all over the place with little red knees.. she has pulled up on the activity tables and couch and such and yes, has bumped her head a few times as well but she is tough and gets right back up there (after a few minutes of tears) she has started clicking her tongue.. it is too cute!! (Gran you will be so thrilled with how much she has changed in just a few weeks) We are heading to the beach this weekend and couldn't be more excited.. I am not so thrilled about the airplane trip but once we get there I will rest easy and relax... a week at the beach with Annabelle crawling and I am sure eating her weight in sand.. yuck.. She is also FINALLY growing some hair!! very blonde but too cute... Today she goes in for her 6 month shots (two months late) today so I am dreading the tears (mine and hers) but I know she needs them and will suck it up and be a good mommy... Say a prayer for me that she doesn't remember... Well, I need to get back to chasing her around!! Love you all and as always keep all our soldiers in your prayers... those deployed and just TDY... Carolyn John and Annabelle
Posted on 24 Sep 2007 at 7:46 AM
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28 Sep 2007
Ready for the Beach
Hello Readers, I have a few minutes at work this morning so I thought I would offer a quick post. Tonight we will head to Nashville to spend the night with Grammy and Papa (they have graciously agreed to get up early and take us to the airport on Saturday). Carolyn and I are both a bit nervous about Annabelle's first flight. We are happy to be exposing her to air travel at an early age, but concerned about decompression during the decent (that's generally the time that all the kids start crying while they try to figure out why their ears are hurting). I think she will be fine and I have assured Carolyn that I will hold her if she gets too fussy (yeah, fat chance - when she's fussy she generally wants "mama" and no one else!). We are very excited about spending the week with the family at Myrtle Beach. The last time her little cousins saw her, Annabelle was just a bundle that cried from time to time. Now she is smiling and laughing and crawling and pulling up on things. I think her cousins will be facinated by her (especially cousin Haley). Annabelle really enjoys other kids, and though she still can't interact or play very much, she always watches with rapt attention as they play around her. We will be sure to post as soon as we get back to let everyone know how things go. I know Gran, in particular, is very excited about seeing her youngest and most geographically distant grandchild. We know that "Gran-Time" is always at a premium when the cousins get together at a family gathering, but we will try to make sure she gets some one on one time with Annabelle. As for myself, I am looking forward to getting away from the office for awhile. The pace stays pretty busy here, but I have a talented supporting cast that ensures the Battalion operates smoothly in my absence (perhaps even SMOOTHER in my absence!). Carolyn is out "Yard Sale Shopping" this morning - her newest Friday morning activity (Christy, Haevenly and Andrea - you are bad, bad people!). It will be interesting to see what she comes home with today! Our prayers and blessings on all of you. Please keep our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines in your prayers daily, and remember our Fallen. Sunday, 30 September, is National Gold Star Mother's Day. If you know someone who has lost a son or daughter in combat, say a prayer for them or perhaps give them a call to thank them for their boundless sacrifice. Our best to everyone! God bless! John (and Carolyn and Beebelle)
Posted on 28 Sep 2007 at 7:26 AM
7 Oct 2007
A week full of firsts
A week of firsts for Annabelle Well as many of you know, we went to the beach last week with the Evans clan. All 13 of us and we had a blast!!! But for us it was even more special because Annabelle got to experience many things for the first time ever! The first 1st was her very first plane trip! Not only did she fly in a plane but she few in her mommy’s favorite, a prop plane! Oh the joys… She was wonderful (I will attach photos below) She slept on the first leg from here to Atlanta but was wide awake for the three hour layover and for the last 90 minute prop plane leg to Myrtle Beach. Mommy was VERY stressed over the whole ordeal but it really was no big deal… yeah…. So we arrive in Myrtle Beach and O’Daddy was there to pick us up… her second 1st was getting to ride in a big girl car seat (facing backward, don’t you worry) she LOVED it because it had a much better and bigger view of what was going on. We got in late in the afternoon so we didn’t get to go to the beach that day but we hung out with the family and ate dinner together (which is quite interesting when 13 people are in one tiny room trying to eat and keep the bigger kids from running over the two smaller ones) This day was when we celebrated Daniel's birthday so we all had cake and really enjoyed ourselves. No cake for Beebelle but she did have a little icing… The next day (Sunday) was her first time on the beach… At first she wasn’t so sure about it, it is noisy, the waves are kind of strong and the sand isn’t very soft… BUT IT SURE TASTES GOOD!!! Yes the next 1st was eating sand…. Lots of it (and let me tell you, going in is MUCH more fun than coming out, she has quite the diaper rash or should I say sand rash on her bum, poor baby) Every hand was full of sand and even when it wasn’t she was sucking on her fingers loving the salt of the ocean… Mommy had to get over the grossness of it all and realize there really was no way to “beach” without her eating it… But not only did she eat sand, but she had sand in places I didn’t know you could get sand… We also had a pool, heated to the point it was more like a huge hot tub, at the beach house and Annabelle loved it as well… Her 1st time in a big pool but more importantly her first time to actually swim… no kidding… she is a natural and pushed herself out of our arms to swim around with us holding her, kicking and just having a ball! We worked the courage up to dunk her and she did a great job holding her breath! Then we started dunking her and pushing her a few feet underwater to the other and she did a great job with that too! She really loves the water and by the next day or so even started to enjoy the ocean! We found some really nice wading pools in the beach and Annabelle crawled and splashed (while eating sand) all around having a ball! She eventually worked her way to the oceans edge and crawled around all the while the waves were pushing up against and around her… We were all so thrilled she enjoyed the water and warmed up to the ocean… It certainly can be a scary place for a little one… Another 1st was Oct 1st (Monday) when we were all gathered for dinner (which we did all but one night) and out of the blue, Annabelle started clapping… so we, the proud Evans’ clan joined in!! Every time she clapped the other 12 did as well cheering her on!! It was so funny watching her watch us clap and cheer every time she clapped… so from then on, clapping was her thing… she clapped about everything… and still does.. It is very cute… Another 1st came when Dad decided he wanted to fish so Annabelle and I went for a walk and when we got back, I took the rod while he went to get the other rod (Annabelle on my back) and we (Annabelle and I) caught the biggest fish of the week (I think) so Annabelle had her first fishing/catching experience this week! Let me recap 1. Plane ride 2. Big girl seat 3. Sand eating 4. Ocean 5. Swimming pool 6. Going under for real in the pool 7. Clapping 8. Fishing Ah, but there is more! I forgot to mention, while waiting at the airport, we got to ride the subway to get to one terminal to another so we’ll count that as a first! 1st subway (or Metro) ride... Dad got adventurous and fed me different things and one was flounder… so another first was eating fish/meat! She really liked it and ate quite a bit… One night we decided to head to the pier, so this was Annabelle’s first trip on the pier!! Ha-ha, I know y’all are getting sick of this, no one enjoys it as much as we do I will not mentioned all the other little 1st like, first time to South Carolina, or her first time to an aquarium or her first time to touch a sand crab or a live fish, or her first tiny sunburn, or first trip through airport security, or her first “souvenir” …. I won’t bother you with things like her first time to wear an outfit or her first time to watch the sun rise and set or her first time to move from one couch standing to another without falling, or her first time to really play with her cousin Haley… I won’t bother you with all those things... ha-ha, honestly my fingers are getting tired of typing… So we are home and had a great time! All of us… and we are counting down the days ‘till we are back again!! Below are photos in order (I hope) of the entry plus some extras of the week... We love you all Carolyn, John and Annabelle First leg of plane ride with mom Second leg of plane ride with dad By jandcevans Eating Sand!
By jandcevans Enjoying the Ocean By jandcevans By jandcevans By jandcevans Swimming pool time! By jandcevans Fishing with Mom By jandcevans The pier By jandcevans Cute shots of Annabelle By jandcevans By jandcevans By jandcevans
Posted on 7 Oct 2007 at 4:14 PM
9 Oct 2007
One more 1st for Annabelle
Hello everyone.. I realize two posts in a week is pretty good for me these days!! There are so many new things with dear Annabelle I really could post daily it seems but just don't have the time.. Today, however, I do because John has a horrible cough and we are up at 4:30... AB isn't thankfully but I am so I thought I would fill you all in on her latest 1st... Drum roll please.............. Annabelle got her first tooth yesterday... well, we discovered it yesterday... It is a little, sharp, nip poking through the skin... She was less happy than normal yesterday with John (like screaming all the way to the Zoo when she normally would have been napping) so I thought I would check... Sticking my fingers in her mouth isn't something I do very often so it could have been there a day or so but I'd say yesterday was the big day!! It is so amazing thinking about what she is going to look like.. her smile, her expressions... now we just need hair!! which is growing but oh so slowly... All right coffee is calling me.. Love to you all and God bless our troops Carolyn (John and Annabelle)
Posted on 9 Oct 2007 at 4:59 AM
10 Oct 2007
More news!!
I just have to share with everyone that Craven too has many first but a big one just happened the other day, maybe the same day as Annabelle... He got his first TWO teeth!! Way to go Craven!!! Pretty soon we are all going to have big grins full of pearly whites! I have been trying to take a photo of Annabelle's tooth but... well.. you can imagine how that has gone over.. hahahahahaha... I have just managed to really tick her off... Another thing is our sweet Auntie Amber is going to be here in a few weeks!! we are all so excited to see her, it has been WAY TO LONG and we all have been missing her so much!! YEAH YEAH YEAH !! I just HAD to share the big news!! Love to you all Carolyn John and snaggle tooth Annabelle...
Posted on 10 Oct 2007 at 2:29 PM
9 Nov 2007
FIRST STEPS!!!
Hello Journal Faithful, Dad gets to make this post. I had been a bit glum lately with the realization that Annabelle was gaining balance and coordination so quickly that she would likely take her first steps while I am deployed in the near future. No so! We can proudly proclaim that as of last night (November 8th) she took her first unassisted steps!! As one of the quintessential milestones of baby development, we were simply awestruck to see her standing unassisted and then taking that first tenuous step. She stood for 5 to 6 seconds, looked at Daddy, and then put one foot in front of the other. She was able to stabilize for a few seconds longer before inattention and gravity toppled her, but she was no doubt WELL aware of her achievement by mine and Carolyn's clapping and shouts of excitement. Later in the evening she actually took 3 small steps without falling, then this morning she repeated her feat of last night and took two steps towards her waiting mother as we cheered and encouraged her. We knew that she was close to her first steps based on her ability to pull up quite easily, but it is a very special thing for me to be present for this important event. I can leave town next week knowing that I will not miss this special milestone. If what we hear from our friends is true, the confidence she has gained from these first few steps will turn quickly into Mom and Dad chasing her everywhere. I think the Ruppel clan will get a great opportunity to chase her around at Thanksgiving, and the Evans clan had better put up the baby gates for Christmas! God's continued blessing on each of you and remember our troops everywhere this holiday season! John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 9 Nov 2007 at 7:10 AM
11 Dec 2007
Dedication
This is a short post which I promise to follow up with a longer one. Thanks to all our families and friends for their support of Annabelle's Dedication on Sunday. It was great to see so many people make it to the church considering the inhospitable weather. A special thanks to Gran and ODaddy for making the trip from NC to babysit while we were out of town and then attend the Dedication. It was a special and blessed day for each of us, and we are so happy that we got to spend it with so many of the special people in Annabelle's life! God's continued blessings on you all, and please remember our men and women in the service as they spend their Holiday Season away from loved ones! John (and Carolyn and Annabelle)
Posted on 11 Dec 2007 at 10:46 AM
17 Dec 2007
Another First!! (not a good one though)
Yes, we knew it would happen at some point but today confirmed it. Annabelle has an ear infection from her stuffy nose and congestion... She is just fine, in fact hasn't been fussy much at all but has been under the weather for more than a week and running an on again off again fever just as long. I decided to take her to the clinic today just to make sure and to have her well for our trip to Gran and Odaddys. After a short visit to the doctor, for those of you that know what it is like to sit in a clinic on post, it really was a short visit to the doctor (30 minutes start to finish). After I got her meds sent to the pharmacy at the hospital I picked up my number and realized there were 42 people in front of me.. no, you did not read that incorrectly. 42. So I went to visit a friend for about 45 minutes and went back down to the pharmacy and still had 30 people to go.. needless to say, I went back to the clinic, got a written script and took her prescriptions to wal-mart and paid my 21 bucks... Gees... I hope you are all well.. Please say a prayer for my friend Stephanie (a faithful reader and good friend) for a speedy recovery.. John and I are thinking about you and know God is looking over you and your family. As well Ambers sister who is going through a tough time. As always, keep our soldiers and their families in your prayers over the Christmas Holiday... We love you all Carolyn
Posted on 17 Dec 2007 at 3:49 PM
25 Dec 2007
Annabelle's First Christmas
We all woke about the same time, 7:00am Est and to much joy the 5 children sprung into action with their new toys left by Santa..!! Haley and all her Barbie items, Daniel with his Spiderman figures... Samuel (who I think liked Jackson's toys better than his own) with his pirate ship and construction trucks, Jackson with Thomas the train tracks and dear Annabelle with her little bug that lights up with different shapes and sounds!! it was crazy but everyone seemed to be good all year as Santa was nice and brought them plenty to play with! After the frenzy of toy playing, Gran prepared a large breakfast of eggs, bacon, biscuits, hash brown casserole and fruit! It was delicious and reinforcing my need to get back to the gym.. Today Jer, Tina, Sam and Jack are heading back to their house for another Christmas gathering so it will just be Jason, Ginny, Haley and Daniel here with us.. :) we are looking forward to spending some time with cousins Haley and Daniel! We will stay here until Thursday or Friday and head home for the Ruppel Christmas on December 30th and New Years with the Campbell Clan of the Herrera's, Black's and the Leamon's! Thank you all for the prayers for Stephanie! her surgery went well and she was able to be home for Christmas! As always please keep our soldier and their families in your prayers.. God Bless and Merry Christmas! John, Carolyn and Annabelle
Posted on 25 Dec 2007 at 8:39 AM
Coby Referral Anniversary
14 years ago
