Friday, December 26, 2008
Vancouver was White, Mansfield was warm, and Brendan Slept
...Now it's really been a long time since I last posted...minutes. HA!
With grandparents aplenty, Brendan celebrated his first Christmas asleep. No kidding. He was awake enough in the morning for us to go through his stocking, then slept while the rest of us opened presents. We figured no problem, he'll be awake when Grandma and Grandpa Hall show up, and we can open his presents then. Two o'clock rolls around and they shop up and guess who's fast asleep again...
Yes we know it won't always be like that.
Finally around five he woke up enough we finally opened up his gifts. Ranging from toys to a couple more hockey jerseys.
While his first Christmas was non-eventful in some respects, we are looking forward to the years to come when instead of sleeping, he'll be awake by 3:00am trying to wake us so he can open presents.
We did establish one thing though...the boy knows who the Denver Broncos are. If we have something Broncos on the TV, like a couple of DVDs Bri got me, he would watch as intently as I was for short periods. He will also do that if we have hockey on.
Speaking of hockey, here is one of his jerseys. We are confident that Brendan may be the only infant in the US with a Canucks infant size third jersey. He also got a Team Canada jersey.
With Pam and Norm here for Christmas Brendan has gotten plenty of attention. Norm being Norm (at least he remembers Brendan is his grandchild this time around) he has referred to the boy as...she...with quick correction from three other voices in the room.
All in all it has been great having them both here in the screwed up weather of Dallas Texas where we've had freezing days followed by nice mild days, and the chance of thunderstorms mixed in. Versus the massively white Christmas being experienced in Vancouver. Mr. Stowe they to thank you for shoveling their driveway.
Also if you are wondering where more pictures are, I will try to get a slide show going on the side bar from Christmas.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Brendan and his parents.
With grandparents aplenty, Brendan celebrated his first Christmas asleep. No kidding. He was awake enough in the morning for us to go through his stocking, then slept while the rest of us opened presents. We figured no problem, he'll be awake when Grandma and Grandpa Hall show up, and we can open his presents then. Two o'clock rolls around and they shop up and guess who's fast asleep again...
Yes we know it won't always be like that.
Finally around five he woke up enough we finally opened up his gifts. Ranging from toys to a couple more hockey jerseys.
While his first Christmas was non-eventful in some respects, we are looking forward to the years to come when instead of sleeping, he'll be awake by 3:00am trying to wake us so he can open presents.
We did establish one thing though...the boy knows who the Denver Broncos are. If we have something Broncos on the TV, like a couple of DVDs Bri got me, he would watch as intently as I was for short periods. He will also do that if we have hockey on.
Speaking of hockey, here is one of his jerseys. We are confident that Brendan may be the only infant in the US with a Canucks infant size third jersey. He also got a Team Canada jersey.
With Pam and Norm here for Christmas Brendan has gotten plenty of attention. Norm being Norm (at least he remembers Brendan is his grandchild this time around) he has referred to the boy as...she...with quick correction from three other voices in the room.
All in all it has been great having them both here in the screwed up weather of Dallas Texas where we've had freezing days followed by nice mild days, and the chance of thunderstorms mixed in. Versus the massively white Christmas being experienced in Vancouver. Mr. Stowe they to thank you for shoveling their driveway.
Also if you are wondering where more pictures are, I will try to get a slide show going on the side bar from Christmas.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Brendan and his parents.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Brendan Goes to Canada
I know, it's been a while and little has been added to this blog, blame it on the economy.
Brendan got his first trip to Canada and finally got to meet Grandpa Norm, and Uncle Jason among others.
The first question we get when it comes to the trip was how he did on the airplane. Like he was suppose to be terrible on the flight. Come on, this is our child...HE WAS PERFECT!!! I can't say that enough. The only person that was remotely fussy was me after the gate attendant at DFW Airport decided to be an A1 Bitch, and that's putting it nicely. In contrast the attendants in Vancouver were extremely nice.
As far as why he was great, Bri did a good job going to Vancouver timing it out where he ate while we were taking off, and landing. Coming back he sucked on a pacifier.
His reaction to his first bit of cold air was priceless however as his eyes popped wide open when we got outside of YVR.
The trip nearly cost us a vaunted American Airlines $25.00 second back charge due to the mass amount of swag the child raked in from friends and family.
Norm of course got his first taste of his grandson, then briefly forgot who he was. The Friday night we were there Pam had a get together so people could come meet Brendan. While one of Bri's friends was holding him, Norm had come around the corner and made a comment on "their" baby. He was quickly reprimanded, and reminded that was HIS grandson.
The trip as a whole was fun, it allowed us to gather a couple of hard to acquire Christmas presents for Brendan that we'll never find in Dallas, and are hard to track down online...more on those when I start writing the Christmas blog...in a couple of minutes.
Brendan got his first trip to Canada and finally got to meet Grandpa Norm, and Uncle Jason among others.
The first question we get when it comes to the trip was how he did on the airplane. Like he was suppose to be terrible on the flight. Come on, this is our child...HE WAS PERFECT!!! I can't say that enough. The only person that was remotely fussy was me after the gate attendant at DFW Airport decided to be an A1 Bitch, and that's putting it nicely. In contrast the attendants in Vancouver were extremely nice.
As far as why he was great, Bri did a good job going to Vancouver timing it out where he ate while we were taking off, and landing. Coming back he sucked on a pacifier.
His reaction to his first bit of cold air was priceless however as his eyes popped wide open when we got outside of YVR.
The trip nearly cost us a vaunted American Airlines $25.00 second back charge due to the mass amount of swag the child raked in from friends and family.
Norm of course got his first taste of his grandson, then briefly forgot who he was. The Friday night we were there Pam had a get together so people could come meet Brendan. While one of Bri's friends was holding him, Norm had come around the corner and made a comment on "their" baby. He was quickly reprimanded, and reminded that was HIS grandson.
The trip as a whole was fun, it allowed us to gather a couple of hard to acquire Christmas presents for Brendan that we'll never find in Dallas, and are hard to track down online...more on those when I start writing the Christmas blog...in a couple of minutes.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Passports, Broncos, and Feed Me More
Officially Brendan will get his first trip to Canada over American Thanksgiving. In order to bring him across the border he requires a passport, which involves passport photos. Imagine the enjoyment of waiting in line behind several Mexicans who must have passports for the American born kids, THEN, having to try and get Brendan awake so his eyes are open for the picture.
As difficult as it could have been we actually had a very patient lady at the passport office who told us there had been couple who took a couple of hours trying to get their babies to open their eyes.
Thankfully we only needed about fifteen minutes to get Brendan's eyes to stay open for a picture.
With that out of the way, the fun comes with taking a newborn on an airplane for the first time with all the added difficulties that go along with it.
For the first time we finally dressed Brendan in Denver Broncos stuff. What a friggin cute little kid!!!
Unfortunately since his birth the Broncos are 0-3, and are playing like the franchise did in the 60s.
Yeah, he took the loss to the Miami Dolphins hard, but not as hard as dad did.
We've also passed over his first Halloween. We had plans to go out and trick or treat with him, however we never got a chance. But that doesn't mean the boy didn't get dressed up.
Next up is his first Thanksgiving, which again will take place in Vancouver, not long after of course will be his first Christmas.
Brendan's appetite has become big. He's usually taking between 3 and 4oz of formula a feeding, and occasionally he's fussed after 4oz, and has gotten a couple more. Normally a newborn will take between 2 and 4oz.
Bri unofficially weighed him at the hospital earlier in the week and with clothes on tipped the scales at 9lbs 5oz.
As the days have gone by he has changed from the day he was born. More and more he is staying awake a little more, and when he is awake he is WIDE awake, and a couple of days it's been in the middle of the night!
As difficult as it could have been we actually had a very patient lady at the passport office who told us there had been couple who took a couple of hours trying to get their babies to open their eyes.
Thankfully we only needed about fifteen minutes to get Brendan's eyes to stay open for a picture.
With that out of the way, the fun comes with taking a newborn on an airplane for the first time with all the added difficulties that go along with it.
For the first time we finally dressed Brendan in Denver Broncos stuff. What a friggin cute little kid!!!
Unfortunately since his birth the Broncos are 0-3, and are playing like the franchise did in the 60s.
Yeah, he took the loss to the Miami Dolphins hard, but not as hard as dad did.
We've also passed over his first Halloween. We had plans to go out and trick or treat with him, however we never got a chance. But that doesn't mean the boy didn't get dressed up.
Next up is his first Thanksgiving, which again will take place in Vancouver, not long after of course will be his first Christmas.
Brendan's appetite has become big. He's usually taking between 3 and 4oz of formula a feeding, and occasionally he's fussed after 4oz, and has gotten a couple more. Normally a newborn will take between 2 and 4oz.
Bri unofficially weighed him at the hospital earlier in the week and with clothes on tipped the scales at 9lbs 5oz.
As the days have gone by he has changed from the day he was born. More and more he is staying awake a little more, and when he is awake he is WIDE awake, and a couple of days it's been in the middle of the night!
Saturday, October 25, 2008
The Boy Grows
Two weeks ago yesterday Bri and I celebrated what we agree is the best day of our lives when we brought Brendan into the world.
He came in at 7lbs 6oz, and left the hospital 3oz lighter. Well that was two weeks ago, yesterday he weighed in at 8lbs 2.5oz, and added just under an inch to his height.
We've been told that he is perfect by our pediatrician and that we can't return him.
So far he's been to a couple of youth soccer games, his first trip to the mall, and multiple visits to the hospital...to visit.
More and more he's been flashing a smile, usually in his sleep. He's also been caught chuckling in his sleep a couple of instances. He's also earning himself the reputation as a snorter.
The reality of his being continued this week when the first piece of mail addressed to him showed up yesterday in the form of his Social Security Card. Which we put into good use in getting credit to buy a new boat......
.....Kidding :p
He's also set for his first Halloween. After much debate we finally decided to go ahead and him a costume. He'll be going as a tiger, and he'll put those cute looks to good use when we take him trick or treating at the hospital.
As for the past two weeks and our entrance into parenthood we would be lying if we said it's been a piece of cake. Certainly we've had our frustrating moments with him, as I'm sure every parent has had with their newborn. But the kid is so cute it's easy to let go of that frustration instantly.
Tonight Bri and I did get a chance to go out and leave Brendan with Grandma for a couple of hours. It gave us a chance to look back on his birth for the first time. One thing that needs to be said is how she handled the whole situation.
It had been thought by some that she would be a nightmare during labor. If how she was is a nightmare, I'll take it!!! Bri was incredible throughout, and I'm not just talking about labor. From the first day we knew she was pregnant to the end she handled herself better than could have been expected. She was strong throughout the labor process, and really showed her drive during a marathon four hour stretch of pushing.
If anyone wants to doubt my wife don't forget she's Canadian, and like any Canadian hockey player she sucked it up and held tough, and I love her, and respect her for what she went through. Not to mention she did it going on about 20 hours without sleep.
Oh yeah, that picture above is Brendan in an Avalanche jersey, we put it on him just prior to his one week birthday, the Avalanche got their first win of the season, and haven't lost since.
He came in at 7lbs 6oz, and left the hospital 3oz lighter. Well that was two weeks ago, yesterday he weighed in at 8lbs 2.5oz, and added just under an inch to his height.
We've been told that he is perfect by our pediatrician and that we can't return him.
So far he's been to a couple of youth soccer games, his first trip to the mall, and multiple visits to the hospital...to visit.
More and more he's been flashing a smile, usually in his sleep. He's also been caught chuckling in his sleep a couple of instances. He's also earning himself the reputation as a snorter.
The reality of his being continued this week when the first piece of mail addressed to him showed up yesterday in the form of his Social Security Card. Which we put into good use in getting credit to buy a new boat......
.....Kidding :p
He's also set for his first Halloween. After much debate we finally decided to go ahead and him a costume. He'll be going as a tiger, and he'll put those cute looks to good use when we take him trick or treating at the hospital.
As for the past two weeks and our entrance into parenthood we would be lying if we said it's been a piece of cake. Certainly we've had our frustrating moments with him, as I'm sure every parent has had with their newborn. But the kid is so cute it's easy to let go of that frustration instantly.
Tonight Bri and I did get a chance to go out and leave Brendan with Grandma for a couple of hours. It gave us a chance to look back on his birth for the first time. One thing that needs to be said is how she handled the whole situation.
It had been thought by some that she would be a nightmare during labor. If how she was is a nightmare, I'll take it!!! Bri was incredible throughout, and I'm not just talking about labor. From the first day we knew she was pregnant to the end she handled herself better than could have been expected. She was strong throughout the labor process, and really showed her drive during a marathon four hour stretch of pushing.
If anyone wants to doubt my wife don't forget she's Canadian, and like any Canadian hockey player she sucked it up and held tough, and I love her, and respect her for what she went through. Not to mention she did it going on about 20 hours without sleep.
Oh yeah, that picture above is Brendan in an Avalanche jersey, we put it on him just prior to his one week birthday, the Avalanche got their first win of the season, and haven't lost since.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Would you Like to Shed a Tear?
Among the people that we had in the delivery room was Kari Crowe who has known Bri pretty much since Methodist Mansfield opened. Kari worked with Corr Images which had a contract to photograph the post delivery for the hospital. Unfortunately the contract between the two was allowed to expire at the end of September.
Maybe one of the greatest gestures we had was both Kari and Cherie Strader offered to be in the room anyway, on their own time, to give us this same deal.
Kari was at the hospital for a majority of the marathon that was Bri's active labor. Which was VERY early in the morning.
Below is a link to Kari's blog site. If you scroll down past the first batch of pictures, you'll find a slide show of Kari's work just past 9:25am October 10th. It gives you an EXTREMELY good sense of the early moments of Brendan's life.
Please don't hesitate to check it out.
Also to Kari, thank you very very much for being there, offering your time to put together an unbelievable piece of art.
Not only look at what she did for us, but some of her other work. She is an amazing photographer that is now on her own trying to start her own photography buisness.
http://www.karicrowephotography.com/
Maybe one of the greatest gestures we had was both Kari and Cherie Strader offered to be in the room anyway, on their own time, to give us this same deal.
Kari was at the hospital for a majority of the marathon that was Bri's active labor. Which was VERY early in the morning.
Below is a link to Kari's blog site. If you scroll down past the first batch of pictures, you'll find a slide show of Kari's work just past 9:25am October 10th. It gives you an EXTREMELY good sense of the early moments of Brendan's life.
Please don't hesitate to check it out.
Also to Kari, thank you very very much for being there, offering your time to put together an unbelievable piece of art.
Not only look at what she did for us, but some of her other work. She is an amazing photographer that is now on her own trying to start her own photography buisness.
http://www.karicrowephotography.com/
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
First Few Days Home
The running joke during our time at the hospital was the fact Bri's scheduled appointment was still going. Well she went in to see Dr. Diggs at 11:00am Thursday, and it didn't end until about 2:30pm Sunday.
In with her purse, and out with a diaper bag and this little guy below.
Home in time for his first Broncos game, which he slept through...the ENTIRE game. We all figured at some point he would awake hungry...guess not.
The last day or so he has continued to eat more and more. He's up to plowing through an entire 4oz ready made bottle.
This is the basic gist of the pictures on my camera right now. Brendan sleeping away the day and night. Here he's in his lamb swing just hanging out.
We've had one unfortunate incident so far in our first trip out of the house. We didn't see a single person look at him. WHAT THE !@#$!!! How can no one at least take a glance at him. Maybe the felt like not intruding on our privacy, yeah we'll go with that.
As it goes, Brendan gets his first trip to the pediatrition's office today for a weight check. His first obligatory visit to Babies R Us, and who knows what else is in store.
Also contratulations to one of the guys in my fab shop at work, Robert and his wife Angela who gave birth to their first child yesterday afternoon.
In with her purse, and out with a diaper bag and this little guy below.
Home in time for his first Broncos game, which he slept through...the ENTIRE game. We all figured at some point he would awake hungry...guess not.
The last day or so he has continued to eat more and more. He's up to plowing through an entire 4oz ready made bottle.
This is the basic gist of the pictures on my camera right now. Brendan sleeping away the day and night. Here he's in his lamb swing just hanging out.
We've had one unfortunate incident so far in our first trip out of the house. We didn't see a single person look at him. WHAT THE !@#$!!! How can no one at least take a glance at him. Maybe the felt like not intruding on our privacy, yeah we'll go with that.
As it goes, Brendan gets his first trip to the pediatrition's office today for a weight check. His first obligatory visit to Babies R Us, and who knows what else is in store.
Also contratulations to one of the guys in my fab shop at work, Robert and his wife Angela who gave birth to their first child yesterday afternoon.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
In the Words of AC/DC....ARE YOU READY!!!
Friday - Oct. 10th, 2008 - 9:25am cdt
Please welcome...from Mansfield Texas, weighing in at 7lbs, 6oz...BRENDAN THOMAS HALL!!!
After 4 hours of pushing, and a pubic bone complicating matters, Brendan finally arrived kicking and screaming into the world. Dad has about an hour and a half of sleep in the last 24 hours, Mom out did him by staying awake the entire time.
Did dad cry? YES.
One hour later the room is full with guests, all but one grandparent (NORM, learn to fly!!!) Chris and Pryia, and of course the nursing staff at Mansfield Methodist.
Thank You to Dr. Diggs who was awesome throughout the entire process from the initial doctors office.
Also to Tonya Thompson who was there nearly every step of the way in the delivery room.
WOW!!!!
Friday - Oct. 10th, 2008 - 2:28am cdt
The progression continues, Bri has moved from a 4 at last check to a 6, and she is fully effaced.
A nice 15 minute nap kinda rejuvinated me, along with the lastest progression.
Bri's hanging in there perfectly with co-workers visiting.
Friday - Oct. 10th, 2008 - 1:18am cdt
Basic labor continues. Bri's water has been broken, and four of five in the room remain awake, except for sleepy to my left<<<<, which brought up the discussion that I resemble my dad when I sleep....alrighty then.
The epidural has been administered, after a bout with heavy contractions. The water was broken prior to that, which means she is and remains at a 4. We'll get an update on that in about an hour.
As the night has progressed, and Bri's need for a cool room comenced, it became apparant that shorts would not to the trick. Thus a run home for long jeans, and a couple of other things. However the all important cell phone was left at the house...DAMN!!!
In reality the boy missed out on the opening of the NHL season, specifically an Avalanche loss to the Bruins, and a mandatory ass whoopin' of the Flames by Alex Burrows, and the Canucks.
Thursday - Oct. 9th, 2008 - 9:28pm cdt
We are currently hanging out at Mansfield Methodist Hospital, Labor and Delivery room #1. Grandma Pam was a half an hour late and got a good surprise when instead of Bri and I, it was Grandpa Don and I...Why, cause Bri has been admitted to the hospital, and instead of inducing Monday as planned, hows about the opening night of the hockey season (0-0 Avs/Bruins 19:00 left in the 1st).
There you go...PROOF!!!
So any and all plans with Monday's scheduled induction have now been tossed out of the window since we are going today.
Bri's current state, we'll go with pretty damn happy with mom here. She's dialated at a 3, and working towards a 4 at which point the doctor will come in and break her water. She's feeling a lot of pressure, especially in her back. With that I should probably give her a hand, and ease her pain.
I'll try to keep blogging until the time comes to worry about other things.
Please welcome...from Mansfield Texas, weighing in at 7lbs, 6oz...BRENDAN THOMAS HALL!!!
After 4 hours of pushing, and a pubic bone complicating matters, Brendan finally arrived kicking and screaming into the world. Dad has about an hour and a half of sleep in the last 24 hours, Mom out did him by staying awake the entire time.
Did dad cry? YES.
One hour later the room is full with guests, all but one grandparent (NORM, learn to fly!!!) Chris and Pryia, and of course the nursing staff at Mansfield Methodist.
Thank You to Dr. Diggs who was awesome throughout the entire process from the initial doctors office.
Also to Tonya Thompson who was there nearly every step of the way in the delivery room.
WOW!!!!
Friday - Oct. 10th, 2008 - 2:28am cdt
The progression continues, Bri has moved from a 4 at last check to a 6, and she is fully effaced.
A nice 15 minute nap kinda rejuvinated me, along with the lastest progression.
Bri's hanging in there perfectly with co-workers visiting.
Friday - Oct. 10th, 2008 - 1:18am cdt
Basic labor continues. Bri's water has been broken, and four of five in the room remain awake, except for sleepy to my left<<<<, which brought up the discussion that I resemble my dad when I sleep....alrighty then.
The epidural has been administered, after a bout with heavy contractions. The water was broken prior to that, which means she is and remains at a 4. We'll get an update on that in about an hour.
As the night has progressed, and Bri's need for a cool room comenced, it became apparant that shorts would not to the trick. Thus a run home for long jeans, and a couple of other things. However the all important cell phone was left at the house...DAMN!!!
In reality the boy missed out on the opening of the NHL season, specifically an Avalanche loss to the Bruins, and a mandatory ass whoopin' of the Flames by Alex Burrows, and the Canucks.
Thursday - Oct. 9th, 2008 - 9:28pm cdt
We are currently hanging out at Mansfield Methodist Hospital, Labor and Delivery room #1. Grandma Pam was a half an hour late and got a good surprise when instead of Bri and I, it was Grandpa Don and I...Why, cause Bri has been admitted to the hospital, and instead of inducing Monday as planned, hows about the opening night of the hockey season (0-0 Avs/Bruins 19:00 left in the 1st).
There you go...PROOF!!!
So any and all plans with Monday's scheduled induction have now been tossed out of the window since we are going today.
Bri's current state, we'll go with pretty damn happy with mom here. She's dialated at a 3, and working towards a 4 at which point the doctor will come in and break her water. She's feeling a lot of pressure, especially in her back. With that I should probably give her a hand, and ease her pain.
I'll try to keep blogging until the time comes to worry about other things.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
As Promised
We have for the most part finished Brendan's room, and yes we have pictures...
The obvious theme in his room is the "Peek-a-boo" Winnie the Pooh. You can see the wall hangings above his crib around his name. We were originally going to use letters from Babies 'R' Us, but when we went to get them they were clean out of "R"s. So we found a company on the Internet that could give you letters any size, thickness, and font.
If you look towards the bottom right, you'll see a football. It's in his room and one day it will actually be his. But that is a Superbowl XII football when the Broncos lost to the Cowboys. It is signed by a number of Denver Broncos. It was given to me from my dad, and will continue to be passed down to Brendan when he is old enough.
Here is a good look at his crib all dressed up thanks to Chris and Pryia's gift. This is also a good look at the new paint job with the border. Yeah, needless to say the boy may have nightmares of Winnie the Pooh characters staring at him :).
It's strange in one sense to think this was my old Sports Room, however there are still remnants of it remaining as apparent by the Canadiens rug, which sits next to the Avalanche rug.
Other remains from the sports room are the panoramic framed picture of Mile High Stadium, which when the boy is tired of looking at Winnie the Pooh and friends, there's John Elway and friends. Toward the left is the baseball collection with a Colorado Rockies collectible bat from the 1998 All-Star game, along with three baseball's, one thrown to me by former Rockie Ellis Burks, and two we got in one game in Houston. One came from, soon to be former Rock Brian Fuentes which he tossed to me, and the other is one handed to Bri from fellow North Delta grad Jeff Francis.
Again we would like to thank everybody who has gotten us something for Brendan. Every gift will be put to good use. It is also starting to hit home more that in just over a week the occupant of that room will be here.
The obvious theme in his room is the "Peek-a-boo" Winnie the Pooh. You can see the wall hangings above his crib around his name. We were originally going to use letters from Babies 'R' Us, but when we went to get them they were clean out of "R"s. So we found a company on the Internet that could give you letters any size, thickness, and font.
If you look towards the bottom right, you'll see a football. It's in his room and one day it will actually be his. But that is a Superbowl XII football when the Broncos lost to the Cowboys. It is signed by a number of Denver Broncos. It was given to me from my dad, and will continue to be passed down to Brendan when he is old enough.
Here is a good look at his crib all dressed up thanks to Chris and Pryia's gift. This is also a good look at the new paint job with the border. Yeah, needless to say the boy may have nightmares of Winnie the Pooh characters staring at him :).
It's strange in one sense to think this was my old Sports Room, however there are still remnants of it remaining as apparent by the Canadiens rug, which sits next to the Avalanche rug.
Other remains from the sports room are the panoramic framed picture of Mile High Stadium, which when the boy is tired of looking at Winnie the Pooh and friends, there's John Elway and friends. Toward the left is the baseball collection with a Colorado Rockies collectible bat from the 1998 All-Star game, along with three baseball's, one thrown to me by former Rockie Ellis Burks, and two we got in one game in Houston. One came from, soon to be former Rock Brian Fuentes which he tossed to me, and the other is one handed to Bri from fellow North Delta grad Jeff Francis.
Again we would like to thank everybody who has gotten us something for Brendan. Every gift will be put to good use. It is also starting to hit home more that in just over a week the occupant of that room will be here.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Mark a calender, any calender
Dwight D. Eisenhower, John Wooden, Ralph Lauren, Usher, and Brendan Hall. What do they or will they all have in common?
All born on October 14th.
Officially Bri will go in October 13th at 5:30pm and we believe the magic will happen sometime after Tuesday morning.
The new and probable date has a couple of funny coincidences. First and foremost while the boy's room is decked out in Winnie the Pooh, it so happens that the original book debuted on October 14th, 1926.
Grandpa Norm's favorite musician, Elvis had his "Jailhouse Rock" released on that same date in 1957.
The great Wayne Gretzky scored his first official NHL goal against....the Vancouver Canucks in a 4-4 tie at the Pacific Coliseum on October 14th, 1979, mmm, Brendan's mom was a mere 7 months old at the time.
Oh yeah, let's get one in for daddy...the Colorado Rockies won game 3 of the NLCS over Arizona 4-1 on the 14th. If the kid wants to hold out another day, he'll be born on the one year anniversary of Colorado's first and only National League Championship.
Now obviously induction doesn't necessarily mean the date is a done deal. The boy may decide he can't wait, and put mom into labor over the weekend. Obviously we'll let you know if that happens.
So again to recap, we'll be watching "Chuck", and "Heroes" on the second floor of Methodist Mansfield Hospital Monday Oct. 13th.
Yes pictures of Brendan's room are still to come, we're almost done.
All born on October 14th.
Officially Bri will go in October 13th at 5:30pm and we believe the magic will happen sometime after Tuesday morning.
The new and probable date has a couple of funny coincidences. First and foremost while the boy's room is decked out in Winnie the Pooh, it so happens that the original book debuted on October 14th, 1926.
Grandpa Norm's favorite musician, Elvis had his "Jailhouse Rock" released on that same date in 1957.
The great Wayne Gretzky scored his first official NHL goal against....the Vancouver Canucks in a 4-4 tie at the Pacific Coliseum on October 14th, 1979, mmm, Brendan's mom was a mere 7 months old at the time.
Oh yeah, let's get one in for daddy...the Colorado Rockies won game 3 of the NLCS over Arizona 4-1 on the 14th. If the kid wants to hold out another day, he'll be born on the one year anniversary of Colorado's first and only National League Championship.
Now obviously induction doesn't necessarily mean the date is a done deal. The boy may decide he can't wait, and put mom into labor over the weekend. Obviously we'll let you know if that happens.
So again to recap, we'll be watching "Chuck", and "Heroes" on the second floor of Methodist Mansfield Hospital Monday Oct. 13th.
Yes pictures of Brendan's room are still to come, we're almost done.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Like an Oncoming Truck
Time flies when you're having fun, and unfortunately time is running out to prepare for Brendan's arrival.
Q - But aren't you guys a month away still?
A - Maybe not.
Upon completion of this past Thursday's doctor's appointment we have found out the boy is as big as his dad when he was born....6lbs 6oz. Which as you think about it means he will be much bigger when October 20th rolls around.
What does that mean? We may be looking at induction soon after Grandma Pam arrives on October 9th. That possible iduction day may be October 13th.
For anyone that came last Saturday for the baby shower, his room looks nothing like it did then. In fact you would think a tornado hit it. But that's only because we finally got around to painting the room...ok I got around to it. (Pictures upon completion).
As for his induction into being a hockey fan (remember he's half Canadian, it's not a choice, it's in his blood) Brendan has an Avalanche, Canadiens, and Canucks jersey all on the way. But not long before he's on the way.
Q - But aren't you guys a month away still?
A - Maybe not.
Upon completion of this past Thursday's doctor's appointment we have found out the boy is as big as his dad when he was born....6lbs 6oz. Which as you think about it means he will be much bigger when October 20th rolls around.
What does that mean? We may be looking at induction soon after Grandma Pam arrives on October 9th. That possible iduction day may be October 13th.
For anyone that came last Saturday for the baby shower, his room looks nothing like it did then. In fact you would think a tornado hit it. But that's only because we finally got around to painting the room...ok I got around to it. (Pictures upon completion).
As for his induction into being a hockey fan (remember he's half Canadian, it's not a choice, it's in his blood) Brendan has an Avalanche, Canadiens, and Canucks jersey all on the way. But not long before he's on the way.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Baby Shower and Ike
With great fury, Hurricane turned Tropical Storm Ike barely glanced off of Dallas-Ft. Worth bringing just a few rain showers and a decent Kansas like breeze. But nothing to hamper or take the shine off of Brendan's baby shower.
Bri and I would like to thank everybody that attended, and especially Stacey, Tania, and Jennifer for everything they did to make it happen.
Also give Bri a lot of credit for the work she put in helping to get the house in order, including the mammothly quick task or re-doing our garden, although her job on that was more finger pointing.
I believe the only complaint if it can be considered a complaint was the mapping technology of Mapquest and its ability to turn people around in our area since it's a somewhat new neighborhood.
In all we had fun, and enjoyed the company at our house, and look forward to everyone stopping by again when little guy is here.
That said, following yesterday's shower of gifts, we continued to fill in today thanks to the afore mentioned Babies R Us sale. We were able to acquire some other somewhat high dollar essentials like the Pack And Play, and baby monitor, along with a swing.
So now the wait continues, and enters its final month. It will definitely go fast for me at least with football season having begun. And any football fan knows this time of year blows by quickly because of that.
We are within a month of Grandma Sumner arriving, albeit on a bad night. I mean come on, opening night for the Colorado Avalanche, and her plane arrives at face off time. I think this was an elaborate plan by the women Sumner myself ;). But I can't complain, she should be coming bearing Tim Horton's Coffee, and the entrance fee into our home...Tim Horton's doughnuts.
Again thank you to everyone who came to the shower, and if he could, Brendan would thank you for all the gifts, we certainly do..
Bri and I would like to thank everybody that attended, and especially Stacey, Tania, and Jennifer for everything they did to make it happen.
Also give Bri a lot of credit for the work she put in helping to get the house in order, including the mammothly quick task or re-doing our garden, although her job on that was more finger pointing.
I believe the only complaint if it can be considered a complaint was the mapping technology of Mapquest and its ability to turn people around in our area since it's a somewhat new neighborhood.
In all we had fun, and enjoyed the company at our house, and look forward to everyone stopping by again when little guy is here.
That said, following yesterday's shower of gifts, we continued to fill in today thanks to the afore mentioned Babies R Us sale. We were able to acquire some other somewhat high dollar essentials like the Pack And Play, and baby monitor, along with a swing.
So now the wait continues, and enters its final month. It will definitely go fast for me at least with football season having begun. And any football fan knows this time of year blows by quickly because of that.
We are within a month of Grandma Sumner arriving, albeit on a bad night. I mean come on, opening night for the Colorado Avalanche, and her plane arrives at face off time. I think this was an elaborate plan by the women Sumner myself ;). But I can't complain, she should be coming bearing Tim Horton's Coffee, and the entrance fee into our home...Tim Horton's doughnuts.
Again thank you to everyone who came to the shower, and if he could, Brendan would thank you for all the gifts, we certainly do..
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Baby Shower Nears
We are now a week away from the baby shower and still plenty of work to do. Looking forward to seeing what we get for Brendan. Of course as life has evolved so has the concept of the "Baby Shower". From an all mom and her female friends get together to a somewhat more common co-ed shower. Though I'm not exactly pumped for Saturday, it gets me out of working a Saturday, and I'm sure as we go through the gifts I'll be more excited about it.
It also helped that it falls on an off week for Colorado Buffalo football.
Now if we were to go by our gift registries it would seem that one person might actually show up for the shower. But being realistic, certainly there are other gifts that people have bought.
Ironically both Babies R Us, and Target have put on massive sales at the right time, so take advantage.
Meanwhile extreme signs that we are close continue to pop up. Dr. Diggs has informed us that if Bri goes into labor after week 34 he will not try to stop it. Guess what...Week 34 begins tomorrow (Mon 9/8). Bri has also been looking at pre-me outfits, not because she feels he will come that early, but to point out to me that Brendan can fit in those clothes NOW!!!
As far as getting ready for the hospital, and all that implies, we may have more bags to take into the hospital than we would take on vacation. OK, maybe not that bad. But figure our "labor bag", "post partum bag", lap top, and cameras, and we will be loaded for bare.
Also with the continued rise of Mansfield, the shopping strip across from the hospital has taken shape with a coffee shop, a hamburger place, and a decent deli, so there will be plenty of places to go for those that come to see us at the hospital.
But, that is still about six weeks away and can not get here soon enough.
It also helped that it falls on an off week for Colorado Buffalo football.
Now if we were to go by our gift registries it would seem that one person might actually show up for the shower. But being realistic, certainly there are other gifts that people have bought.
Ironically both Babies R Us, and Target have put on massive sales at the right time, so take advantage.
Meanwhile extreme signs that we are close continue to pop up. Dr. Diggs has informed us that if Bri goes into labor after week 34 he will not try to stop it. Guess what...Week 34 begins tomorrow (Mon 9/8). Bri has also been looking at pre-me outfits, not because she feels he will come that early, but to point out to me that Brendan can fit in those clothes NOW!!!
As far as getting ready for the hospital, and all that implies, we may have more bags to take into the hospital than we would take on vacation. OK, maybe not that bad. But figure our "labor bag", "post partum bag", lap top, and cameras, and we will be loaded for bare.
Also with the continued rise of Mansfield, the shopping strip across from the hospital has taken shape with a coffee shop, a hamburger place, and a decent deli, so there will be plenty of places to go for those that come to see us at the hospital.
But, that is still about six weeks away and can not get here soon enough.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Brendan's Baby Shower Sale, Now at Babies R Us!
Announcer (car salesman like): Attending Brendan Hall's Baby shower? Clueless as to what to buy? Scared to pay a lot?
Babies R Us has the answer starting this Friday. It's the Brendan Hall Baby Shower Sale, only at Babies R Us!!!
Don't hesitate to make your way to your local Babies R Us for ten dollars off all play yards, ten percent off all baby monitors, and fifteen percent off all bedding sets over one hundred dollars. THAT'S RIGHT fifteen percent off the Pooh Soft & Fuzzy bedding set on Brendan's gift registry.
The savings don't end there, take fifteen percent off all diaper bags, you'll save so much money you can buy both bags on the registry for mom AND dad!.
Playtex infant feeding or bottle accessories....FIFTEEN PERCENT OFF. And don't forget to help mom and dad fill the custom made Denver Broncos boppy pillow cover with ANY boppy pillow, ALSO fifteen percent off.
Shop early on labor day, the doors open at 8 AM!!
It's the Brendan Hall baby shower sale starting this Friday at Babies R Us, you'll save so much money you can donate to the Brendan Hall SCHOLARSHIP FUND!!!
Disclaimer: All afore mention savings require a coupon, online coupon codes available on the side bar under Baby Registry Info. Unsure if actual circular with coupons is available in store.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Registered to be Showered
The boy requires swag, and we have registered for said swag. Feel free to click the links on the side bar to see what the kid wants.
As was the case when we got married, we were looking forward to registering, and scanning anything and everything we wanted.
This obviously was not our first go around in the gift registry game. Aside from our own wedding registry a few years ago we were asked to join Chris and Pryia Peters on their scanning for Ethan, and Stacy Byrd's trip through Babies R Us for Sydney (the day before Ethan was born).
One lesson we did learn from Chris and Pryia is to keep up with both of our registries daily so we are not blessed with two or three bath tubs.
I know the common worry when shopping off of some one's registry is not knowing what to get. As much as gift cards are welcomed, don't hesitate to just get whatever is on those lists because we are asking for them.
Information on the baby shower will be posted later. I can say it is in September.
Finally for those scoring at home...we are in the FINAL trimester!!!
As was the case when we got married, we were looking forward to registering, and scanning anything and everything we wanted.
This obviously was not our first go around in the gift registry game. Aside from our own wedding registry a few years ago we were asked to join Chris and Pryia Peters on their scanning for Ethan, and Stacy Byrd's trip through Babies R Us for Sydney (the day before Ethan was born).
One lesson we did learn from Chris and Pryia is to keep up with both of our registries daily so we are not blessed with two or three bath tubs.
I know the common worry when shopping off of some one's registry is not knowing what to get. As much as gift cards are welcomed, don't hesitate to just get whatever is on those lists because we are asking for them.
Information on the baby shower will be posted later. I can say it is in September.
Finally for those scoring at home...we are in the FINAL trimester!!!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Almost Called It
"The running joke is now that the Broncos are scheduled on the due date, we're wondering if the Canucks will come to Dallas on the 21st, before continuing a road trip to Denver to play the Avalanche on the 22nd. Sure enough that would mean the Avs would be here in Dallas that Friday the 24th."
Scroll down, and you'll find that exact quote from me after the Broncos schedule was released revealing the fact Denver would play on Monday Night Football against New England on Brendan's due date.
So today saw the release of the National Hockey League schedule with prime oppotunity for either the Avalanche, or Canucks playing Dallas, or each other around October 20th.
The possiblity of the Colorado Avalanche being in town as Brendan is brought into this world is a very distinct possibility now as they make their first of two trips to Dallas on October 18th.
While any other year I would have that circled to buy tickets, especially being a Saturday. But that won't happen this year and for obvious good reason. I mean imagine the scene:
Second period, Marty Turco has already been chased from the net with the Avalanche rolling behind a Burnaby Joe hat trick and my phone rings with the following message...
Bri - Hey, it's time.
Dwayne - WHAT!
Bri - it's time.
Dwayne - Time...2:13 left in the second period, how's everything at home?
Bri - No it's time as in baby delivery time.
Dwayne - What, I can barely hear you, did you say Sakic is delivering tonight?
Bri - NO MY WATER HAS BROKE AND THE KID IS ON THE WAY!
Dwayne - Water?...oh...OH...can he wait til the end of the game?
Yeah I don't think that scenerio works out well in real life.
As for the actual due date of the 20th, Colorado goes from Dallas to Los Angeles. Meanwhile the Montreal Canadiens host Florida, and the Vancouver Canucks are in between dates with Chicago and Columbus.
In other news, Bri did have a check up and another sonogram today. The sonograms did not come out very good, thus the lack of any proof here. The bouncing baby boy, is bouncing in at over 2 lbs and doing fine.
We will also be posting baby registry information this weekend. The baby room is already coming along with the crib and dresser set up.
And finally in two weeks begins back-to-back Saturday's with prenatal classes with valuable information for me, and what will amount to a nearly free delivery for Bri when the hospital bill comes which is without question one worry we are glad not to have financially.
So to recap...Avs may grace us with their near presence when Brendan arrives. We will soon let you know what to spend your money on. And finally I will get to see the gory birthing video...gigity gigity gooo, alright!
Scroll down, and you'll find that exact quote from me after the Broncos schedule was released revealing the fact Denver would play on Monday Night Football against New England on Brendan's due date.
So today saw the release of the National Hockey League schedule with prime oppotunity for either the Avalanche, or Canucks playing Dallas, or each other around October 20th.
The possiblity of the Colorado Avalanche being in town as Brendan is brought into this world is a very distinct possibility now as they make their first of two trips to Dallas on October 18th.
While any other year I would have that circled to buy tickets, especially being a Saturday. But that won't happen this year and for obvious good reason. I mean imagine the scene:
Second period, Marty Turco has already been chased from the net with the Avalanche rolling behind a Burnaby Joe hat trick and my phone rings with the following message...
Bri - Hey, it's time.
Dwayne - WHAT!
Bri - it's time.
Dwayne - Time...2:13 left in the second period, how's everything at home?
Bri - No it's time as in baby delivery time.
Dwayne - What, I can barely hear you, did you say Sakic is delivering tonight?
Bri - NO MY WATER HAS BROKE AND THE KID IS ON THE WAY!
Dwayne - Water?...oh...OH...can he wait til the end of the game?
Yeah I don't think that scenerio works out well in real life.
As for the actual due date of the 20th, Colorado goes from Dallas to Los Angeles. Meanwhile the Montreal Canadiens host Florida, and the Vancouver Canucks are in between dates with Chicago and Columbus.
In other news, Bri did have a check up and another sonogram today. The sonograms did not come out very good, thus the lack of any proof here. The bouncing baby boy, is bouncing in at over 2 lbs and doing fine.
We will also be posting baby registry information this weekend. The baby room is already coming along with the crib and dresser set up.
And finally in two weeks begins back-to-back Saturday's with prenatal classes with valuable information for me, and what will amount to a nearly free delivery for Bri when the hospital bill comes which is without question one worry we are glad not to have financially.
So to recap...Avs may grace us with their near presence when Brendan arrives. We will soon let you know what to spend your money on. And finally I will get to see the gory birthing video...gigity gigity gooo, alright!
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Stimulating the Economy
Take a wife who is pregnant, add that to a government in fear of a recession, and the final result is a shopping spree that might make some blush.
With the U.S. government sweetening tax payers bank accounts free cash entered the picture at the right time for Bri and I. Consider the kid well dressed with a sturdy bed and dresser that will last. THANK YOU GEORGE W., now go back to finding 'tara'.
Never mind the hutch, and the 6-drawer dresser in the picture, and that's a simple idea of what we found, and will have in Brendan's room. With much debate the argument of free money equals buying a better crib won out.
Further more if my wife was not impressed with me before hand, she is now after I personally moved BOTH large furniture cartons into the house on my own.
Before the furniture adventure in Ft. Worth came the clothing mad scramble in Grapevine.
Think of your weekly trip to the grocery store. You have a checker, and in most cases someone else bagging your food. Followed by a receipt that equals a tree. Now transfer that thinking to Carter's in Grapevine Mills Mall and that was the scene.
Want more of an idea of the fun we had, a coupon we had for a certain percentage saved us nearly $75.00. End story is Brendan will be the best dressed infant on the block. We're already turning girls away at the door ;)
Now of course I've already put my effort in to dressing the boy with Broncos and Rockies gear. However I'm resisting any hockey for the time being, meaning no Avalanche, Canadiens, or Canucks right now. That's too many teams for different people to fight over who he should cheer for. I'll intervene when he says he likes the Maple Leafs, or Red Wings.
So on that note we move into the second half of this journey.
With the U.S. government sweetening tax payers bank accounts free cash entered the picture at the right time for Bri and I. Consider the kid well dressed with a sturdy bed and dresser that will last. THANK YOU GEORGE W., now go back to finding 'tara'.
Never mind the hutch, and the 6-drawer dresser in the picture, and that's a simple idea of what we found, and will have in Brendan's room. With much debate the argument of free money equals buying a better crib won out.
Further more if my wife was not impressed with me before hand, she is now after I personally moved BOTH large furniture cartons into the house on my own.
Before the furniture adventure in Ft. Worth came the clothing mad scramble in Grapevine.
Think of your weekly trip to the grocery store. You have a checker, and in most cases someone else bagging your food. Followed by a receipt that equals a tree. Now transfer that thinking to Carter's in Grapevine Mills Mall and that was the scene.
Want more of an idea of the fun we had, a coupon we had for a certain percentage saved us nearly $75.00. End story is Brendan will be the best dressed infant on the block. We're already turning girls away at the door ;)
Now of course I've already put my effort in to dressing the boy with Broncos and Rockies gear. However I'm resisting any hockey for the time being, meaning no Avalanche, Canadiens, or Canucks right now. That's too many teams for different people to fight over who he should cheer for. I'll intervene when he says he likes the Maple Leafs, or Red Wings.
So on that note we move into the second half of this journey.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Boy Oh Boy
With the first pick in the 2027 NHL draft, the Detroit Red Wings select...Brendan Hall!
Yeah I know a couple things jump out in that sentence. Is 2027 the correct year, and how do the Red Wings get the first pick in the draft. Come on, Red Wings suck, and do you really want me to degrade the Colorado Avalanche or Vancouver Canucks and say they will be so bad then that they have the first pick.
Or did the fact I'm proclaiming my SON, twenty weeks shy of birth will be that great of a hockey player. Or just the fact that you just popped on here and the whole color scheme has changed among other things. That said pretty easy to see what we are having right.
Upon initial examination the child already has one lesson coming his way - cooperation. In a breech position Dr. Diggs was unable to any clue as to blue or pink...hockey gear or a shot gun.
Upon a secondary examination (note actual terminology has been replaced to protect the innocent) "Daddy's got his wish," gushed Dr. Diggs. Which had me thinking he had found a good way to find what we were looking for. That thought was quickly replaced by the fact I realized he meant daddy as in me.
General consensus among the predicting many was a girl. Those that said BOY were in the minority which had me beginning to believe I would have a "daddy's little princess".
So a BOY it is, and the Denver Broncos and Colorado Rockies merchandise stores are happy. Even more we can look at, and buy clothes for HIM.
Obviously the ultimate dream for me is that HE makes it to the NHL. But if HE decides to be a doctor, lawyer, or even a plumber so be it. The BOY is free to be whatever HE wants to be. Right now I'm just looking forward to that day in October when my SON is born. HE needs to get here in time for that Broncos/Patriots Monday Night Football game on his due date.
Aw yes, that first Broncos game, me with a beer HIM with a bottle of formula.
All the thoughts a soon-to-be dad with a BOY on the way have entered my mind from taking HIM to baseball games, showing HIM golf, or taking HIM to hockey practice.
So with this all said, let us return to the old wives tails I ventured to discuss awhile back and remember the last thing I wrote there.
IT'S A BOY!!!
Yeah I know a couple things jump out in that sentence. Is 2027 the correct year, and how do the Red Wings get the first pick in the draft. Come on, Red Wings suck, and do you really want me to degrade the Colorado Avalanche or Vancouver Canucks and say they will be so bad then that they have the first pick.
Or did the fact I'm proclaiming my SON, twenty weeks shy of birth will be that great of a hockey player. Or just the fact that you just popped on here and the whole color scheme has changed among other things. That said pretty easy to see what we are having right.
Upon initial examination the child already has one lesson coming his way - cooperation. In a breech position Dr. Diggs was unable to any clue as to blue or pink...hockey gear or a shot gun.
Upon a secondary examination (note actual terminology has been replaced to protect the innocent) "Daddy's got his wish," gushed Dr. Diggs. Which had me thinking he had found a good way to find what we were looking for. That thought was quickly replaced by the fact I realized he meant daddy as in me.
General consensus among the predicting many was a girl. Those that said BOY were in the minority which had me beginning to believe I would have a "daddy's little princess".
So a BOY it is, and the Denver Broncos and Colorado Rockies merchandise stores are happy. Even more we can look at, and buy clothes for HIM.
Obviously the ultimate dream for me is that HE makes it to the NHL. But if HE decides to be a doctor, lawyer, or even a plumber so be it. The BOY is free to be whatever HE wants to be. Right now I'm just looking forward to that day in October when my SON is born. HE needs to get here in time for that Broncos/Patriots Monday Night Football game on his due date.
Aw yes, that first Broncos game, me with a beer HIM with a bottle of formula.
All the thoughts a soon-to-be dad with a BOY on the way have entered my mind from taking HIM to baseball games, showing HIM golf, or taking HIM to hockey practice.
So with this all said, let us return to the old wives tails I ventured to discuss awhile back and remember the last thing I wrote there.
IT'S A BOY!!!
Monday, May 19, 2008
It's Alive....ITS ALIVE!!!
As we close in on the halfway mark reality is really starting to set in that something is living inside of Bri.
The kid is already very active, giving Bri a nice kick today which I subsequently told her to kick it back :).
So of course I have to take a feel tonight and sure enough there is something in there and it is moving. Which it apparently has come to enjoy given that every sonogram Bri takes at work the kid is all over the place. Could that equal a boy...mmm, tune in June 2nd.
We've also read that the child has attained the ability to hear. Sorry Canucks fans...Let's go Avalanche! By the time I'm done the kid's first words will either be "Red Wings Suck!", or "Go Broncos".
Although I am still waiting for confirmation that this child is truly mine. The only true test I can think of is if the kid flips the bird during a sonogram. Of course he/she needs to pull his hand out of his mouth before that can happen.
Now understand all these sonograms she has taken they have yet to totally identify if the child has plumbing going in or out. Though every nurse that has given her one has their ideas, of course since we pay none of them, their ideas don't count.
What will count will be the one we have on June 2nd when Dr. Diggs performs the big one, which will be followed by me purchasing either a shotgun, or hockey equipment. So if you're curious that evening log onto here, and you'll have no problem telling.
The kid is already very active, giving Bri a nice kick today which I subsequently told her to kick it back :).
So of course I have to take a feel tonight and sure enough there is something in there and it is moving. Which it apparently has come to enjoy given that every sonogram Bri takes at work the kid is all over the place. Could that equal a boy...mmm, tune in June 2nd.
We've also read that the child has attained the ability to hear. Sorry Canucks fans...Let's go Avalanche! By the time I'm done the kid's first words will either be "Red Wings Suck!", or "Go Broncos".
Although I am still waiting for confirmation that this child is truly mine. The only true test I can think of is if the kid flips the bird during a sonogram. Of course he/she needs to pull his hand out of his mouth before that can happen.
Now understand all these sonograms she has taken they have yet to totally identify if the child has plumbing going in or out. Though every nurse that has given her one has their ideas, of course since we pay none of them, their ideas don't count.
What will count will be the one we have on June 2nd when Dr. Diggs performs the big one, which will be followed by me purchasing either a shotgun, or hockey equipment. So if you're curious that evening log onto here, and you'll have no problem telling.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Scheduleing Conflicts
So it is probably well established that daddy Dwayne is about as big of a sports fan as there is. And with a due date of October 20th for Bri there is no doubt some sporting event of importance would land on that night. Figure that the NHL will have begun, a possible World Series run for the Rockies again this year, and of course there is the Denver Broncos.
So there it is, the Denver Broncos schedule has been released and look at that, they play Monday Night, October 20th at New England.
The running joke is now that the Broncos are scheduled on the due date, we're wondering if the Canucks will come to Dallas on the 21st, before continuing a road trip to Denver to play the Avalanche on the 22nd. Sure enough that would mean the Avs would be here in Dallas that Friday the 24th.
So no question anyone reading this is thinking; 'where are Dwayne's priorities going to be?'
Good question and a simple one thanks to, one...the invention of the television and its subsequent use in hospital rooms far and wide. Second the invention of TiVo, and the fact one wound up under the Christmas tree last year.
But who are we kidding anyway, that'll be a Broncos win without question right? After all the Broncos have lost just once to the Patriots since 1983.
However the schedule makers of the National Football League did do us a favor with a bye week following the Pats game. So our future Broncos fan's first game will probably be November 2nd when the Broncos host the hapless Miami Dolphins. Of course we continue to wonder if the clothing of choice for the baby will be a jersey onesie, or a cheerleader outfit.
In the meantime the child has now been pseudo exposed to altitude with our recent visit to Denver. Unbeknownst to the kid he/she's been to a pair of the Rockies games, an Avalanche game, through downtown, and a short adventure into the mountains above Boulder. With that Bri also found herself exposed to altitude, but pulled through just fine, tiring quickly most days but that was to be expected. Her joy came Wednesday when snow graced the mile high landscape.
Oh in case you're still wondering, Bri has made me aware of my priorities regardless of sporting event.
So there it is, the Denver Broncos schedule has been released and look at that, they play Monday Night, October 20th at New England.
The running joke is now that the Broncos are scheduled on the due date, we're wondering if the Canucks will come to Dallas on the 21st, before continuing a road trip to Denver to play the Avalanche on the 22nd. Sure enough that would mean the Avs would be here in Dallas that Friday the 24th.
So no question anyone reading this is thinking; 'where are Dwayne's priorities going to be?'
Good question and a simple one thanks to, one...the invention of the television and its subsequent use in hospital rooms far and wide. Second the invention of TiVo, and the fact one wound up under the Christmas tree last year.
But who are we kidding anyway, that'll be a Broncos win without question right? After all the Broncos have lost just once to the Patriots since 1983.
However the schedule makers of the National Football League did do us a favor with a bye week following the Pats game. So our future Broncos fan's first game will probably be November 2nd when the Broncos host the hapless Miami Dolphins. Of course we continue to wonder if the clothing of choice for the baby will be a jersey onesie, or a cheerleader outfit.
In the meantime the child has now been pseudo exposed to altitude with our recent visit to Denver. Unbeknownst to the kid he/she's been to a pair of the Rockies games, an Avalanche game, through downtown, and a short adventure into the mountains above Boulder. With that Bri also found herself exposed to altitude, but pulled through just fine, tiring quickly most days but that was to be expected. Her joy came Wednesday when snow graced the mile high landscape.
Oh in case you're still wondering, Bri has made me aware of my priorities regardless of sporting event.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Old Wives Tales
So finally papa got to see a real live sonogram, and thus the reality of what will come in October was clear. The kid is bouncing that's for sure. With that out of the way our next sonogram will come at the 20-week mark. This will be the biggest one by far because it will be the one where we find out if we’re buying blue or pink.
But we can not wait that long so; we tried some old wives tales that we found on the internet. The final result...let's just say we're as unsure as before.
We tried the thread and wedding ring trick...it went in circles. That one is pretty accurate right? One place we read it says that means it's a boy, another says a girl.
I asked Bri to show me her hand...palms up says boy, palm down is a girl. What if she shows it like a high five?
There is a trick with the mom picking up a key. If the mom picks it up on the key end it's a girl, and the round end, a boy. She picked it up by the latter, which as Bri said; "Don't most people pick it up that way?"
Then there's a mug test. If she holds it by the handle that's a boy, and by the body of the mug means a girl. She held hers by the body, which says little seeing as if you hold something the same way all your life does that really tell you anything?
Early morning sickness and a baby’s heart beat at or above 140 beats a minute says you're having a girl...check and check. However craving salty and sour foods along with meats say boy...um check and check.
So bottom line we'll just have to wait until the end of May when we go in for THE sonogram to find out if we're having a Brendan or a Camryn.
Oh but there is one thing...if the mom is looking beautiful during pregnancy that means a boy...
I guess I can by the boy a Jay Cutler jersey when we go to Denver ;)
But we can not wait that long so; we tried some old wives tales that we found on the internet. The final result...let's just say we're as unsure as before.
We tried the thread and wedding ring trick...it went in circles. That one is pretty accurate right? One place we read it says that means it's a boy, another says a girl.
I asked Bri to show me her hand...palms up says boy, palm down is a girl. What if she shows it like a high five?
There is a trick with the mom picking up a key. If the mom picks it up on the key end it's a girl, and the round end, a boy. She picked it up by the latter, which as Bri said; "Don't most people pick it up that way?"
Then there's a mug test. If she holds it by the handle that's a boy, and by the body of the mug means a girl. She held hers by the body, which says little seeing as if you hold something the same way all your life does that really tell you anything?
Early morning sickness and a baby’s heart beat at or above 140 beats a minute says you're having a girl...check and check. However craving salty and sour foods along with meats say boy...um check and check.
So bottom line we'll just have to wait until the end of May when we go in for THE sonogram to find out if we're having a Brendan or a Camryn.
Oh but there is one thing...if the mom is looking beautiful during pregnancy that means a boy...
I guess I can by the boy a Jay Cutler jersey when we go to Denver ;)
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Texas and snow
So many times we encounter situations where we have given advice in the past, yet in dealing with the situation first hand do not follow said advice ourselves. Everyone had done it at some point in their lives.
Last week saw our first nervous scare in this pregnancy, though a bit more of a scare than what has happen to others who have asked Bri about it. Anyone who knows us probably knows what happened and with that I will not go into details. Thankfully all is good, and she is back to work although taking it easy still.
So as it was this past Thursday was to be our first "official" sonogram. That of course was thrown out the door less than a week earlier when Bri had no choice but to see the doctor who gave her a sonogram that day to make sure the baby was doing fine. He again gave her another one the following Monday on a follow up.
So taking off work early Thursday I had it in my mind that I would ask the doctor to act like this was the first time. Except as sleet fell in the DFW area I find out the appointment was cancelled due to the weather.
So let's review: Wife is from Canada, husband is from Colorado and the media in DFW is totally blowing the winter like weather out of proportion as though a blizzard hit town. Please, if this city saw a foot of snow in a 24 hour span it would shut down...or as we found out Thursday in sleeting conditions. In Denver or Vancouver we probably would have made our appointment with little discussion of the weather.
So Friday turns into the day Bri must return to the doctor, more now to see if she can get off of bed rest. Of course another sonogram is performed and daddy Dwayne is left out.
So there it is, the...third sonogram. As you can see from the image it isn't very easy to pick out, but we have been assured there is a baby in there. Bri says the heartbeat is strong (which means it's a Broncos fan ;) ). At the time of this sonogram you can see it was just over 1cm big. By now it should be about 1.5cm, maybe larger.
Bri also received an "official" due date during her visit last Friday. Circle October 20th on your calendar for that. Leave us a message as to your guess with an hour of the day and we might just take the closest person out to dinner some time.
Make mine October 22nd between 1:00pm-2:00pm.
We have another appointment scheduled toward the end of March which I hope to actually attend and see what this alleged sonogram thing is. Until then may the morning sickness continue...for her.
Last week saw our first nervous scare in this pregnancy, though a bit more of a scare than what has happen to others who have asked Bri about it. Anyone who knows us probably knows what happened and with that I will not go into details. Thankfully all is good, and she is back to work although taking it easy still.
So as it was this past Thursday was to be our first "official" sonogram. That of course was thrown out the door less than a week earlier when Bri had no choice but to see the doctor who gave her a sonogram that day to make sure the baby was doing fine. He again gave her another one the following Monday on a follow up.
So taking off work early Thursday I had it in my mind that I would ask the doctor to act like this was the first time. Except as sleet fell in the DFW area I find out the appointment was cancelled due to the weather.
So let's review: Wife is from Canada, husband is from Colorado and the media in DFW is totally blowing the winter like weather out of proportion as though a blizzard hit town. Please, if this city saw a foot of snow in a 24 hour span it would shut down...or as we found out Thursday in sleeting conditions. In Denver or Vancouver we probably would have made our appointment with little discussion of the weather.
So Friday turns into the day Bri must return to the doctor, more now to see if she can get off of bed rest. Of course another sonogram is performed and daddy Dwayne is left out.
So there it is, the...third sonogram. As you can see from the image it isn't very easy to pick out, but we have been assured there is a baby in there. Bri says the heartbeat is strong (which means it's a Broncos fan ;) ). At the time of this sonogram you can see it was just over 1cm big. By now it should be about 1.5cm, maybe larger.
Bri also received an "official" due date during her visit last Friday. Circle October 20th on your calendar for that. Leave us a message as to your guess with an hour of the day and we might just take the closest person out to dinner some time.
Make mine October 22nd between 1:00pm-2:00pm.
We have another appointment scheduled toward the end of March which I hope to actually attend and see what this alleged sonogram thing is. Until then may the morning sickness continue...for her.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Is it October Yet
So the news is out, and everyone knows, and now the wait. For me at least. Bri on the other hand has to deal with it differently as you might guess. Really when you look at it the nine month wait we now have to endure is much like the wait in 2005 when we got married. In fact that was days from being exactly nine months.
My excitement about being a dad is still there, but I've let it tone down some. No need to get overly out of control now eight months from d-day. Like I do with most long waits I look at the calendar and break down the time with other events that require a shorter waiting period. Call them checkpoints if you will. But when you live in Texas there are three months in the year that no matter what will drag...SUMMER.
More so this year since Bri will have to deal with the heat and being pregnant at the same time. At least she works in air conditioning. But I do seem to remember the summer prior to our wedding was extremely long and hot. Brings whole new meaning to 'watching the kettle boil'.
But alas there are many things to look forward to before the day comes. Bri's birthday is just around the corner, along with our first sonogram. Another Canucks/Stars game in March. A week in Denver that will surely blow by quickly. Mix in my birthday in May, and Memorial day and we're at the door step to summer. But I know on the other side of summer is football season, and as most football fans know those weeks blow by very fast.
But one thing that will integrate itself into the wait, and will hopefully continue through the entire period is Colorado Rockies baseball. That's right, I said Rockies baseball. Nothing would make me happier than having to miss a World Series game with my Rockies in it because I have to be at the hospital.
It dawned on me in the last week that last October was probably the funnest I've ever had with the Rockies run. Then the thought that it will no doubt be quickly trumped the next time around. Let's just hope Jeff Francis and the boys can make it a fun year again this year. Because nothing will slow down the wait than a lost Rockies year.
But while I look forward to Denver, our birthdays, holidays, and baseball in the end I am ultimately waiting for one day. I just don't know what day in October that will be.
My excitement about being a dad is still there, but I've let it tone down some. No need to get overly out of control now eight months from d-day. Like I do with most long waits I look at the calendar and break down the time with other events that require a shorter waiting period. Call them checkpoints if you will. But when you live in Texas there are three months in the year that no matter what will drag...SUMMER.
More so this year since Bri will have to deal with the heat and being pregnant at the same time. At least she works in air conditioning. But I do seem to remember the summer prior to our wedding was extremely long and hot. Brings whole new meaning to 'watching the kettle boil'.
But alas there are many things to look forward to before the day comes. Bri's birthday is just around the corner, along with our first sonogram. Another Canucks/Stars game in March. A week in Denver that will surely blow by quickly. Mix in my birthday in May, and Memorial day and we're at the door step to summer. But I know on the other side of summer is football season, and as most football fans know those weeks blow by very fast.
But one thing that will integrate itself into the wait, and will hopefully continue through the entire period is Colorado Rockies baseball. That's right, I said Rockies baseball. Nothing would make me happier than having to miss a World Series game with my Rockies in it because I have to be at the hospital.
It dawned on me in the last week that last October was probably the funnest I've ever had with the Rockies run. Then the thought that it will no doubt be quickly trumped the next time around. Let's just hope Jeff Francis and the boys can make it a fun year again this year. Because nothing will slow down the wait than a lost Rockies year.
But while I look forward to Denver, our birthdays, holidays, and baseball in the end I am ultimately waiting for one day. I just don't know what day in October that will be.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
IT IS!!!
So ten home pregnancy tests and a single visit to the doctor and the prospect of shopping for baby stuff has become a reality.
While the visit to the doctor was a little less climactic than we thought it would be it did give Bri and I the concrete idea that our parents will soon be grand parents, and Jason will be an uncle.
So what comes next? Less than nine months of waiting and all that a pregnacy implies, especially for Bri with me in tow as support.
The ironic twist to this is the fact that we received the official announcement exactly five years to the day that we met face to face in Calgary. Yet even more ironic is the fact the baby could arrived six years to the day we first talked to one another.
Of course there is one hurdle that we were able to avoid within the last week of this new situation. There will be no arguing over names, unless we have twins.
So with that thought in mind we are looking at either Brendan Thomas, or Camryn Elizabeth. The first names are just ones we finally agreed on, the middle names are my grandfather's (dad's dad), and Bri's grandmother's (her mom's mom).
Hopefully we'll have pictures in the weeks to come, our first sonogram is scheduled in a few weeks when we'll get our first look at our future.
So before the days turn into weeks, and the weeks into months thank you for all the support and we look forward to what is about to come.
While the visit to the doctor was a little less climactic than we thought it would be it did give Bri and I the concrete idea that our parents will soon be grand parents, and Jason will be an uncle.
So what comes next? Less than nine months of waiting and all that a pregnacy implies, especially for Bri with me in tow as support.
The ironic twist to this is the fact that we received the official announcement exactly five years to the day that we met face to face in Calgary. Yet even more ironic is the fact the baby could arrived six years to the day we first talked to one another.
Of course there is one hurdle that we were able to avoid within the last week of this new situation. There will be no arguing over names, unless we have twins.
So with that thought in mind we are looking at either Brendan Thomas, or Camryn Elizabeth. The first names are just ones we finally agreed on, the middle names are my grandfather's (dad's dad), and Bri's grandmother's (her mom's mom).
Hopefully we'll have pictures in the weeks to come, our first sonogram is scheduled in a few weeks when we'll get our first look at our future.
So before the days turn into weeks, and the weeks into months thank you for all the support and we look forward to what is about to come.
Saturday, February 9, 2008
It Could be, It Might be....
While prematurely, and maybe not as viewed it may be safe to say that in less than nine months the Hall household could be seeing an addition. To say that Bri and I haven't been working our backsides off to accomplish what we believe will be confirmed in a matter or weeks would be an understatement.
Within the last six plus months we have watched two friends bring life into the world. While I'm considered the uncle of one, and Bri is the "baby's daddy" to the other (that story upon request, and only with permission from Stacey), we have been looking forward to our chance at this process.
For both Chris and Pryia and for Stacey we happen to be the ones asked to join them during their trek through Babies R Us as they set up their registries. Both times I think it got our thoughts going.
I can't speak for Bri, but I can say for myself upon the moment she showed me the positive test that did not require squinting at, I have had tons of thoughts roam throughout my mind. From how I'll tell those that are not quite privileged to the information yet, to looks into the future of either early morning hockey practices or soccer, or dance class or whatever he/she decides to do.
One thing is for sure, since we have known each other, friends and family have had children of their own and we watched from the bench gladly showering them with presents. So now, it's our turn.
Of course now we just have to wait for an actual doctor to tell us the same thing. Until then and after that both Bri and I look forward to this journey and sharing it with anyone who happens upon this blog because...
"IT TURNED BLUE" - the test not the beer :)
-Dwayne
Within the last six plus months we have watched two friends bring life into the world. While I'm considered the uncle of one, and Bri is the "baby's daddy" to the other (that story upon request, and only with permission from Stacey), we have been looking forward to our chance at this process.
For both Chris and Pryia and for Stacey we happen to be the ones asked to join them during their trek through Babies R Us as they set up their registries. Both times I think it got our thoughts going.
I can't speak for Bri, but I can say for myself upon the moment she showed me the positive test that did not require squinting at, I have had tons of thoughts roam throughout my mind. From how I'll tell those that are not quite privileged to the information yet, to looks into the future of either early morning hockey practices or soccer, or dance class or whatever he/she decides to do.
One thing is for sure, since we have known each other, friends and family have had children of their own and we watched from the bench gladly showering them with presents. So now, it's our turn.
Of course now we just have to wait for an actual doctor to tell us the same thing. Until then and after that both Bri and I look forward to this journey and sharing it with anyone who happens upon this blog because...
"IT TURNED BLUE" - the test not the beer :)
-Dwayne
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