Baby Peterson

Life's a Beach!

2010-03-02T08:23:00.000-08:00

Welcome Back!

Our little man is 10 months old! Every day brings another great story. Braxton crawls at record speeds, walks along everything (including the big screen), does laps in his walker, and has been caught 'not holding on' a few times. I'm guessing it won't be long before he is walking. Braxton loves to show you how big he is, give high fives, wave when he feels like it, clap when he's happy, and goes crazy for hide and seek. He says Mama & Dada all of the time but we've also heard him say Dede (Deirdre is our nanny!) and Up. He loves puppies, pizza, shopping, the swing, baths, his tupperware drawer and anything outside!

I couldn't wait any longer to get these photos posted. I still need to get our Christmas in Minnesota and Wisconsin pictures posted. We spent 3 hours with a local photographer who took 1200 pictures. She was amazing and it was a beautiful day. We received a cd of 700 touched-up photos. Here are some of our favorites!

I LOVE SANTA!!

2009-12-15T18:39:00.000-08:00

Braxton loves Santa or maybe I should say, Braxton loves Santa's beard. We took him to see Santa at the mall and at our clubhouse. He loved watching all of the kids. He's really changed a lot over the last few weeks. He's finally sleeping through the night! He's mastered the army crawl and pulls himself up on anything and anybody! We are very excited to spend 2 weeks in Wisconsin and Minnesota visiting family. Braxton will love all of the attention and he will love the wrapping paper! MERRY CHRISTMAS!

My official portrait with Santa

Check out the cool toy Santa gave me!

Twins!

Why should I look at mom when I can look at you?

Real men wear pink.

What up Doc? I almost forgot to tell you I have two teeth on the bottom and two more coming in at the top!

Play Time!

2009-12-15T18:31:00.000-08:00

Playing with my first Christmas present from Grandma and Grandpa Peterson

I'm getting pretty good at posing for pictures!

Do I have to wear this hat all of December?

SWINGS & SANTA

2009-12-15T18:19:00.000-08:00

I know, I know, Cute hat!

Ashley and I are buddies!

I can get so much higher than daddy!

Oh Yeah! This is great! I CAN FLY!

Just another photo shoot with Deirdre.

TURKEY & TEETH

2009-11-26T17:08:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING! GOBBLE, GOBBLE!

Potatoes, Squah & Turkey!

Mommy made her first Thanksgiving feast!

Mommy bought this bib (I'm thankful for my daddy) last year for Daddy!

This was the night I didn't feel good. I had 2 teeth come in. I had a fever and my mouth hurt really bad!

Daddy wanted to take me to kill the turkey in my camouflage; mommy said NO WAY!

Giggle, giggle!

Smile for the camera!

I like to sit in my toy box!

What do you want? I'm watching Baby Einstein!

Sleeping on Deirdre, the best nanny ever!

Deirdre and I have lots of fun!

6 MONTHS!

2009-11-11T19:04:00.000-08:00

Braxton turned 6 months old on October 21st. He's doing great! He was in the 50th percentile for weight and 90th percentile for height at his 6 month check up. No teeth yet but they're coming! Braxton is talking up a storm! He's a hit wherever we take him because he smiles at everybody! Every day with Braxton is a blessing! I can't imagine life without him (I can imagine sleep without him though, haha!) We moved into our new home on the 31st. Slowly but surely, the boxes are getting unpacked. Needless to say, it's been a busy month! Hope you enjoy the new pictures!

This is the life!

Just hanging out with my buddy, Conrad. I'm not quite crawling yet but it won't be long!

I give kisses now!

Nice face, mom!

Peggy and I spent a lot of time outside! We had so much fun!

Napping on Dad!

Football might be on but I'm tired!

My First Halloween!

2009-11-11T18:53:00.001-08:00

Daddy bought me this pumpkin suit when mommy was pregnant. He thinks everyone has to be a pumpkin for their first Halloween. We moved into our new home on Halloween day so we were pretty tired but we visited the neighbors and handed out lots of candy!

My great Aunt Peggy came down from Wisconsin to help take care of me during the move. She was here for 7 days and she was such a huge help. I wish we could keep her!

"Dad, are you sure we can't turn the heater on?"

Despite the pool being a little chilly, Braxton loved it!

"Would you let go already?! I got this!"

2009-11-11T18:46:00.000-08:00

Boy Talk

I love my daddy!

This is one of my first flights awake and mommy and daddy survived!

Passing time at the airport...

Jon & Ashley's Wedding

2009-11-11T18:38:00.000-08:00

Congrats to Jon and Ashley! Welcome to the family, Ashley! We flew to Reading, PA for their wedding. Braxton did great on the plane. 3 flights in 6 months, he's racking up the frequent flyer miles already!

So adorable in the bowtie!

The Peterson Boys!

Am I cute or what?!

Hanging with Grandpa and Grandma Peterson. I got to see Grandma Peterson two weekends in a row because she came to Florida to help us pack for the big move!

I love to swing!

2009-11-11T18:32:00.001-08:00

It's a little chilly in PA but I love this playground!!

Do you love my homemade sweater? Thanks Jane!

Oh yeah!

Hanging with my godparents!

Braxton Lee

2009-11-11T18:15:00.000-08:00

Lee got to take a private jet to the Notre Dame-USC game.

Our first family photo in our new home.

Bouncey, bouncey, bouncey!

Chow Time!

5 MONTHS OLD!

2009-09-26T07:24:00.000-07:00

Braxton was five months old on the 21st! He's weighs 17 pounds. Even though it's been almost 100 degrees, he has a cold. He's rolling over like a gymnast and is probably closer than we want him to to crawling! :-) He's still loving the water!

Hanging out with the Staleys! Braxton loves Summer & Kaitlin!

Strip me down, feed me & then get out the hose!

This is the last time Dad puts Braxton on his shoulders!!

We bought Braxton a house!! We close October 30th. It a single story, 4 bedroom, 3 bath. Braxton's favorite feature: THE POOL! We are very excited!

FOOD!

2009-09-12T19:33:00.000-07:00

Tonight I ate a few bites of sweet potatoes that Emily made for Conrad. My tongue gets in the way but I think I liked it. I need my bottle to wash it down!

I also tried some rice cereal. It tasted ok and it made my face really smooth! Haha!

Mommy's friend Jenn lent us her boys' bumbo. I like to sit in it in the bathroom in front of the mirror, while Mommy gets ready for work.

I'm Getting Big!!

2009-09-12T19:23:00.000-07:00

Grandma and Grandpa Welsh sent me this cool water raft!

Isn't my girlfriend pretty?! We got to hang out with Brooke, Dennis and Carly all weekend!

My froggie is my favorite toy. Who do you think won the stare down?

Am I Cute or What?!

2009-09-12T19:02:00.000-07:00

Chad & Landi gave Braxton a "Future Beaver" onsie so we had to get this family photo before it doesn't fit anymore!

Terri and Sandy Boggs gave me this super cute horse outfit. My bottom has a tail on it too. Someday I want to go to Kentucky to see them and Betsy and Travis.

I LOVE MY BEAR!

Not everyone gets to wear palm tree pants!

This is Nicole. She's friends with Mommy & Daddy and she watched me for 4 weeks while we looked for a permanent nanny. Nicole is the baby whisperer but she said I'm a tough one to figure out! I miss her!

Mommy's good friend and neighbor Emily comes down some mornings to play with me while Mommy gets ready for work. She's pretty special and Conrad and I are BFF's!

My onsie says, "It's Tubby Time!" Tubby Smith coaches basketball at Minnesota but he used to be at Kentucky so Betsy thought it was the perfect gift for me and daddy!

I had to look extra cute when we met Ashley and Steve for lunch. Ashley thinks I'm great and she bounced me on "my" exercise ball while Mommy and Daddy met with the realtor.

Mommy got to babysit Conrad and me for a few hours. Aren't we cute?!

I'm eating from a spoon for the first time. BANANAS.... I think I liked them. My diaper looked kind of funny though!

What's Going On?!

2009-08-24T19:12:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it has been a month since I have updated the blog. I really took for granted the extra hands we had this summer. It was so great to spend the summer with the grandparents. It was hard to leave! The last month has been a month of adjustments for all three of us. Braxton is still trying to get back into a routine. Lee & I have already started back to school. It's one of the hardest things I've had to do. I miss Braxton so much! We have been very lucky to have our friend Nicole watch Braxton for the last couple of weeks. We have 2 more weeks to find a permanent nanny. With 61 applicants, I hope there is one out there that will be the perfect fit. Braxton is getting so big. He's semi rolling, trying to hold his own bottle, laughing like a grown man, trying to sit up any time he's in his bouncy seat or car seat, and grabbing everything! He loves being outside, swimming, baths (really anything do to with water), the mirror, and his baby bjorn (thanks Josh & Wendy). We have been house hunting as well. We put our first offer in this weekend but were outbid! The search continues! I have a ton more pictures to post but I haven't downloaded them yet. I hope you enjoy those that I have.

Da Beach!

2009-08-24T19:05:00.001-07:00

This is Braxton's first time at the beach awake! He loved it. Two of his favorite things are being outside and the water so the beach is the perfect combination. The ocean was colder than the pool water but he didn't cry.

The Nightly Bedtime Story!

2009-08-24T19:02:00.001-07:00

After Braxton's bath and baby massage, we "try" to read a book. His favorite book is called Commotion in the Ocean! How appropriate!

Braxton's First Girlfriend!

2009-08-24T18:50:00.001-07:00

Braxton's girlfriend, Carly Chapman was born just three weeks after him. Brooke and Dennis are great friends of ours. Our first weekend back in Florida we went to Sarasota to visit them. We had a fabulous time but our "activities" sure changed from the summer before!

Holding hands when the dads weren't looking!

Ooops, naked in every picture! (It was a HOT day!)

"Baby" Pool Time!

Hmmm, that's the four of us just a little over a year ago on a cruise... the summer we decided we should start a family! It's been great sharing the trials and tribulations of new parenthood with Dennis and Brooke. We just wished they lived closer!

Back to Florida, Back to the Pool!

2009-08-24T18:47:00.000-07:00

Our last days in Minnesota...

2009-08-24T18:36:00.000-07:00

"What's up guys?"

Big Lee & Little Lee at The Mall of America

Shopping with Mom & Grandma & loving it! (Isn't that right, Lee?!)

Saying good bye is soooo hard!

Big BOY!

Those Grandpas!!!

MORE PETERSONS!

2009-07-24T14:37:00.000-07:00

It was great to see the "Petersons!" Randy, Barb, Rachel, Becky and Matt met us for dinner and then we got to watch Rachel's softball game! We missed Sarah though! Of course, Braxton was a hit! :-)

The Crew!

Rachel is Lee's goddaughter!

Swing Rach!

XOXO

2009-07-18T10:38:00.000-07:00

3 Months on the 21st!

2009-07-18T09:36:00.000-07:00

4 Generations

2009-07-17T07:57:00.000-07:00

Great Grandpa Peterson, Grandpa Peterson, Daddy & Braxton!

Great Grandma Joyce, Grandma Peterson, Daddy & Braxton!

Braxton got to meet Lee's cousin Becky and her family.

Braxton & Ally (one of Lee's goddaughters)

A rare occasion: All of the Peterson boys home!

4th of July with the Peterson's

2009-07-12T07:54:00.001-07:00

Braxton finally got to meet his Grandpa Peterson. He loves hanging out at their lake home. Grandma & Grandpa Peterson live in Hawley, MN. Braxton slept the entire 8 hour drive from Milwaukee to northern Minnesota. We left at 8 p.m. when he fell asleep & he didn't wake up until we were in the Peterson house at 4 a.m. Wohoo! Wish he would do that every night! We arrived on the 3rd, just in time for the 4th of July festivities.

Braxton is the Peterson's first grandchild.

Buddy "the dog" and Braxton "the baby"

Braxton & Uncle Joshua

It's Uncle Sam! (Nice Hat, Lee!)

Lee & his mom decorated the pontoon and we participated in the 4th of July Boat Parade on Lake Lizzie.

Our Boat Baby!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

2009-07-12T07:38:00.001-07:00

Lee & I celebrated our 3 year anniversary on July 1st! We celebrated by going out to a nice quiet dinner (with my whole family!) haha! Lee is the best husband and dad!

Braxton and I are so lucky!

The Lake Life

2009-07-08T13:46:00.000-07:00

The Whole Gang!

Jenna & Lee holding on for dear life! Faster Dad, faster!

I had to share this picture! Do you think the water was a little cold? (Look at my face.)

It was great to see Aunt Peggy & Uncle Les!

Watch out Michael Phelps, here comes Braxton!

2009-07-08T13:22:00.000-07:00

Braxton loved swimming in the pool at the Peg & Les' hotel.

Grandpa Welsh gave him some lessons!

I'm the winner!

Lovin' Baby Braxton!

2009-07-08T13:06:00.000-07:00

Still loving Michael Jordan!

Smile for the camera!

Naptime with Grandpa!

Watching Sportscenter with Daddy way too early!

The Brew Crew vs. The Twinkies!

2009-07-08T12:48:00.001-07:00

While in Wisconsin, we got to watch the Twins play at Miller Park. My family wasn't too impressed with my Twins shirt. (I promise I will never wear a Vikings t-shirt!) Thanks Grandma Welsh for babysitting Braxton and thanks Josh for the awesome tickets!

Jenna's friend is one of the sausages in the race above.

It's Been Too Long!

2009-07-08T10:41:00.000-07:00

Our good friends, Jenny & Ryan and their little ones, Reese and Chase drove up to Milwaukee from Chicago to visit. It was so great to see them. We miss them so much! Jenny has been so helpful with her "baby" expertise! Reese and Chase are so cute and Jenny and Ryan are such great parents! Thanks for coming to visit. I wished we lived closer!

The Happy Family!

Reese and Taylor had a great time playing! Nice shades!

Looks like Daddy Lee needs two more!

I miss Jenny soooo much!

Braxton's Month of Firsts

2009-06-23T19:20:00.000-07:00

Baby Braxton is 2 months old and is getting so big. Before we left Florida, we took him to the Dr. for his 2 month shots. At 7 weeks, Braxton was 10.25 lbs (40 percentile) and 23 inches (90 percentile). There is no doubt that he has grown since then. He is finally out of his newborn clothes. He smiles and "talks" so much. He loves Cousin Taylor's bouncy seat and is starting to enjoy walks more and more. He is still not very fond of the car but hopefully he figures that out soon since we will be driving 9 hours to Minnesota next week.We have been in Wisconsin the last couple of weeks and will be going to Minnesota next week to meet all of the Peterson's. It has been great to see family. Braxton has been a hit. He has gotten to meet all of the "Welsh's."

Braxton has had many first over the last few weeks. We've tried to capture most of them.

Braxton had his first shower with Daddy!

Braxton road on Grandpa's boat and really enjoyed the bouncy ride and warm breeze. Cousin Taylor loves Baby Braxton!

Nice shorts Grandpa!

Mommy & Braxton need some sun!

Proud Papas (Lee & Uncle Josh) on Father's Day!

Grandma still has the touch!

Go Brewers!

Grandpa always teases Daddy about his plaid shorts so everyone wore plaid on Father's Day, even Braxton!

Daddy, Braxton, and Taylor!

NICE HAT, DUDE!

Braxton loves his cousin, Taylor!

Uncle Josh and Taylor

Cousin Taylor is soooo helpful with Braxton!

Braxton wore this outfit on the way home from the hospital; it finally fits!

Braxton's great aunt Peggy was so excited to meet Braxton. Peggy and Uncle Les are so helpful!

Grandpa Welsh meets his first grandson!

Aunt Wendy is sooooo sweet!

SMILE!

Proud Grandparents with Taylor and Braxton

Braxton's first flight! He did awesome. Braxton slept all the way from Fort Lauderdale to Atlanta and despite being wide awake from Atlanta to Milwaukee, he was an angel and didn't cry once! Daddy did well on the plane too!

Braxton's Dedication

2009-06-02T12:17:00.001-07:00

More photos from Braxton's Dedication...

Braxton's Dedication

2009-06-01T17:58:00.000-07:00

Braxton's Dedication was Sunday. It was a beautiful morning on the beach. Lee's friend and college roommate, who resides in Miami with his beautiful wife Grethel, led the dedication. Jason is planting a Harvest Bible Church in Miami and we are blessed to have them in our lives.

Braxton in his Sunday's best; love the tie!

Jason & Grethel are Braxton's godparents along with Jenna and Jon.

HANDSOME!

Sooooo Happy!

It was a gorgeous morning!

After the dedication on the beach, we had breakfast at Bradley's and they made Braxton this sign.

Braxton's Dedication

2009-06-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

Braxton's Dedication

Sunday, May 31st

Palm Beach

Jenna Welsh - Auntie & Godmother

Jonathan Peterson - Uncle & Godfather
Godparents: Jon, Jason & Grethel, Jenna

Despite short notice, a couple of friends were able to join us. We really appreciate their support.

Uncles & Bottles

2009-06-01T17:33:00.000-07:00

Uncle Jonathan meets Braxton! Thanks Jon for making the trip despite your busy schedule. It was great to see you!!

Braxton's first bottle... Pump Mommy Pump!

"Tolerating" my carseat and watching mom put away clothes!

It is nice visiting with our neighbors, Emily and Conrad.

Auntie Jenna meets Baby Braxton!

2009-06-01T17:13:00.000-07:00

My little sis, Auntie Jenna, spent 5 days in Florida. She loves her newphew. It was nice having an extra set of hands during the day while Daddy was at work. She "bounced" him to sleep for me!

Cute feetsies!

Out to lunch!

SNUGGLE!

Mr. Smiles

2009-05-26T09:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day!

2009-05-26T08:54:00.000-07:00

Saturday we celebrated Little Dave's b-day. Braxton wasn't very cooperative so we didn't get any photos. Sunday was spent at Billie's. Braxton slept most of the time we were there. Everybody wanted to hold him!

Billie always gets Braxton to sleep!

2 Baths in 2 Hours!

2009-05-26T07:58:00.000-07:00

Braxton was a little constipated so a glycerin tablet was needed. The tablet worked so 2 baths were needed too!!

Splish, Splash!

Bath #2

One Month Appointment

2009-05-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

GROW BABY GROW!
We had our 4 week apt. yesterday.
Braxton weighs 8lbs, 4oz an is 21 3/4 inches in length.

Weight

Height

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2009-05-19T12:01:00.000-07:00

Braxton bought Daddy three tickets to the Marlins game for his birthday. He can't wait to go to the games with him. Braxton spent the day shopping with Regina and mom.

I think he liked it (don't tell Dad!)

2009-05-19T11:52:00.001-07:00

After taking Daddy to the baseball game, the "Daves" spent some time with Braxton!

Big Dave & Little Dave have definitely got the touch!

More Visitors!

2009-05-19T11:49:00.000-07:00

It was great to see our friends, Jason & Grethel who recently moved back to Miami!

I'm kind of a BIG deal!

2009-05-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

My first day at school!

2009-05-19T11:36:00.000-07:00

Mommy's New Man

2009-05-14T17:05:00.000-07:00

Daddy didn't like the onsie from Reg as much as Mommy did!

Peek-a-boo!

Braxton is already the BMOC (big man on campus!)

2009-05-12T18:06:00.000-07:00

Billie & Bart brought us dinner and dessert on Friday. We welcome them anytime because everytime Billie visits, Braxton sleeps.

He's a Natural!

It was so nice for Brooke to visit; thanks for the book and soap!

Ashley and Steve visited for a few hours before Ashley's surprise birthday party! Wish we could have been there Ash!

1st Mother's Day

2009-05-12T17:39:00.000-07:00

Braxton got Mommy a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a balloon for Mother's Day! We took Braxton to his first lunch out (mom's too since getting out of the hospital).

Braxton was giving Daddy kisses!

2009-05-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

Thanks Uncle Josh & Aunt Wendy for the cool swing. I'm "learning" to like it!

Regina visits frequently to keep Mommy sane! Thanks for the monkey outfit! Braxton has a cute tush like his daddy! :-)

I can't decide if I like this thing in my mouth.

Chilin with Mom!

Nap time!

2009-05-03T15:25:00.000-07:00

The last couple of weeks have been a rollercoaster! We welcomed Braxton Lee to our family on Tuesday, April 21st! He is so perfect and we love him so much! 14 days after my "botched" epidural, I am finally starting to feel better. I debated back and forth whether or not to get the epidural and I wish I would have decided against it because when the Dr. was trying to give it to me, he "missed" and an air sack formed. I was informed that this happens to 2% of patients. I should have known that as soon as I heard him apologizing something was up. After 45 minutes of the worst pain, I was told that I would be getting a very intense headache and that the epideral would not be given. Within minutes, the headache came. By the time he left the room, I was 9 cm and pushing soon after so fortunately, I did not have to endure the headache and the pain of a natural childbirth at the same time for too long.

I felt well the first night but by the next day, I could barely lift my head or get out of bed. On Wednesday evening, I received a blood patch in my spine. They took blood from my arm and tried to fill the hole that was created in my spine. I instantly felt some relief but by the next morning, I was in a lot of pain again. We went home Thursday afternoon and I was unable to even leave the bed. Friday, Lee and my mom took me to the emergency room. Lee had to basically carry me into the hospital. After receiving fluids and a catscan, I learned that the "hole" was still open and Lee and I chose not to receive another blood patch. Friday evening I went home and was on bedrest for a week. I do not know how I would have made it through the week without Lee and our moms! Lee was amazing! I have no neck or back pain and the headache is no longer unbearable. (My eyes are still bloodshot though which is quite the sight.) I really appreciate all of the support we received from friends and family. It was all worth it because Braxton is an angel!

Baby Braxton

2009-05-03T15:07:00.000-07:00

Braxton loves to lay on his tummy!

Family Photo!

Grandma Peterson's first look at her first grandchild! Tammy flew in for 5 days. We wish those grandparents lived closer!!

Daddy LOVES his baby boy!

2009-05-02T18:18:00.000-07:00

Braxton's First Bath

2009-05-02T18:08:00.000-07:00

Lee and Grandma Welsh gave Braxton his first bath. He actually liked the water (or at least he did not cry) but he didn't like the "afterbath."

Welcome Home Braxton!

2009-05-02T17:59:00.000-07:00

Braxton and Daddy love plaid!!

An instant love affair!

Mr. Popular!

2009-05-02T16:52:00.000-07:00

Viki

Dave, Megan, & Eric

Jenn, Kay, Macaire, & Ashley

Regina & Dave

Grandma Welsh booked a flight as soon as she heard we were heading to the hospital. She was able to stay for a week. It was great to have her here and it was very hard when she left! :-(

Missing photos: LeeAnne and Braylen

OOOOHHHH BABY!

2009-05-02T16:22:00.000-07:00

Tueseday, April 21st

12:30 a.m. - Contractions begin, 15 minutes apart

2:00 a.m. - Contractions continue, 10 minutes apart

4:00 a.m. - Contractions get more intense, 7-10 minutes apart

4:00 a.m. - Wake Lee up

4-4:30 a.m. - Lee showers, cleans showers, unloads dishwasher, makes bed, cleans living room, takes garbage out, gets gas, gets money, takes suit case out... all while I am still on the couch trying to figure out if I'm really in labor.

7:00 a.m. - Call midwife, contractions 5-7 minutes apart

7:00 - 9:00 a.m. - Contractions continue every 5-7 minutes. I slowly get ready while Lee nervously awaits.

9:30 a.m. - Leave for St. Mary's Hospital

10:00 a.m. - Arrive at St. Mary's Hospital, contractions consistently every 5 minutes

10:30 a.m. - 5 cm dialated, admitted to our room!

11:30 a.m. - Regina gets to hospital to keep my mind off of the contractions and helps calm Lee's nerves!

3:15 p.m. - Water broken

3:40 - Pushing begins

4:06 p.m. - BRAXTON LEE PETERSON IS BORN!!!

7 lbs, 3 oz

19 1/4 inches

DUE IN SIX DAYS! OH BOY!!

2009-04-19T18:06:00.000-07:00

The bags are packed and every morning we wake up and say, "today could be the day!" I feel great. I am a little uncomfortable sleeping so I am catching myself a little tired duirng the day. Everyone says it's just practice for when he arrives. Lee spent three days at the beginning of last week in the Keys at Sea Camp with his students. He drove separate just in case. Before he left, he had direct orders for BP not to come until Daddy came home. He kept his phone with him 24-7, except of course, when he was snorkeling. This morning we walked about three miles, went to a movie, and took in some sun at the pool. We are getting anxious, nervous, excited and every other emotion one would expect. I'm still working and coaching. In fact, the first boys volleyball game is Tuesday. I think it's good I'm staying busy. We will keep everyone updated!

Lee got very creative with the camera. This was my favorite pose from our neighbor Emily's pregnancy photo shoot! We can't wait to meet our baby boy!

39 Weeks! 6 Days until my due date!!!

A look back at what I thought was a baby bump at 3 months! Haha! I almost forgot that I really do have ankles!

Mr. Peterson's Surprise Shower

2009-04-03T13:07:00.000-07:00

Lee's students threw him an awesome surprise shower. They were so excited and he was very surprised! The students brought in their favorite childhood book for our baby's library. What a cute idea! A few of the students read their book aloud. They also entered a baby pool, chosing the date of BP's arrival as well as his height and weight! We received a travel system (stroller and car seat) as well as a generous gift card and some cute baby clothes. Thank you so much to everybody that helped pull off the surprise! We appreciate your thoughtfulness! (FYI: Go Dog Go, pictured below, was my favorite childhood book!)

LOOK AT THOSE CHEEKS!

2009-04-03T12:50:00.001-07:00

I had my weekly check-up today and first internal exam. I am 1 cm dialated, right on track, according to the Dr. I also had a sonogram to see where BP is positioned. His head is down and Lee says he can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Here's our baby boy! It was kind of hard to get a good picture because his face was smashed against my uterus (poor thing) but look at that face! Surreal! The technician said he had quite a bit of hair. Lee's jealous! We can't wait to meet him.... still working on that name!

Here is the first ultrasound pictures we received. What a difference!

37 Weeks

2009-04-03T12:37:00.000-07:00

3 weeks to go! The nerve pain has been gone now for a couple of weeks. I have a lot of swelling in my feet and legs but I still feel great! It's certainly getting harder to manuever.

"The Nursery"

2009-04-03T12:26:00.001-07:00

Our once "makeshift" nursery has come to life. We may not have a crib yet but I think we have everything else we need. I have been on spring break this week so I was able to do some "nesting." The frames are awaiting pictures of the baby.

March Madness

2009-03-24T18:33:00.001-07:00

A shout out to our friends and family in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Our friends Betsy and Travis had these baby gifts specially made for tourney time. I think they should market their Tubby (Smith) Time/Town and Bo (Ryan) liever infant gear! Of course, BOliever will sell a lot more! Thanks Bets & T-Rex!

Lee took this picture from our back balcony.

34 days and counting!

2009-03-22T17:23:00.001-07:00

It's been an eventful week! Lee was on spring break this week. Unfortunately for him, the weather wasn't very nice. Fortunately for me and BP, he was confined to our condo putting "baby stuff" together! As you can tell by the picture below, he's gotten a little too into the "nesting" process. This is one of BP's towels if Big Daddy doesn't steal it! (Thanks Bart & Billie!) On Tuesday we had a Dr.'s appointment and had our first "hiccup." After a high blood pressure reading and too much protein in my urine, I was sent to the lab for an exciting 24 hour urine collection. The Dr. assured us that BP was great; his heartbeat was super and he responded to her pressure. We asked what worse case scenario would be... (note to self: don't do that again) and she said that if the levels were the same that she would consider inducing me. I don't know if that helped me focus on my needs for the next two days or made my blood pressure even worse. Lee eased my worries when every day I came home to a new completed project. After labs were completed, I returned to the Dr. Friday and everything came back perfect and my blood pressure was fine! Whew! I still have swelling and the sciatic nerve pain is in full force, but I feel great! I have four days of school before my spring break! I am looking forward to getting everything in place then. We hope to be moving out of our condo soon so we are not ordering the crib and nursery decor quite yet. We have; however, converted a spare bedroom into a temporary nursery!

Big Daddy's a little on edge after completing his weekly projects! He keeps yelling Spring Break 09!

We purchased a rocker and converted our book shelf into a baby storage center. Lee also put together the Pack N' Play/Bassinet to make sure everything was working!

We may not have diapers yet but our baby's bed is ready (Thanks to my good friend and colleague Jenn who is lending us her precious bassinet). Lee had quite the time with the skirt! I wish I could have been a mouse in the corner when he was putting it together. You can barely see it but below the bassinet is an afghan my grandmother knitted for a future great grandbaby before she passed away.

This picture was taken looking out the nursery window! We could actually see the shuttle after take off from the Kennedy Space Center, about 3 hours away from WP.

Baby Shower, Pool Party - March 7th

2009-03-15T09:17:00.000-07:00

On March 7th, my good friends, Regina and Billie, along with my parents threw us a baby shower. The men joined us for food, drinks, and games at the pool. It was a beautiful day! Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate.

Baby Shower

2009-03-15T09:10:00.001-07:00

Jenna just can't get enough of waitressing! I bet she's never served beer in bottles!

"Boy, this is harder than I thought!"

Kodak Moment! Go Grandpa Go!

D.I.T. times 2! Dennis and Brooke are due a month after us!

Baby Shower, Pool Party

2009-03-15T09:02:00.001-07:00

My parents and sister flew down to celebrate with us. It was great to see them!

Regina, Billie & my mom put on quite the display!

Thank you to everyone that came! We received so many cool gifts, including these Vikings and Packers onsies! We can't wait for football season!

34 Weeks

2009-03-15T08:47:00.000-07:00

At 34 weeks, 85% of my pregnancy is complete. I've escaped several ailments of pregnancy but swollen feet is not one of them. By the time I get home from school, my feet are grossly huge. Lee massages them for me despite his dislike for feet!. :-) I am definitely feeling pregnant these days but I still feel great!

I don't know how many more "skin" pictures I have left for you!

32 Weeks!

2009-03-04T17:04:00.000-08:00

We hit the 32 week mark Saturday so we celebrated by going to Miami with friends. B.P. has now been to an NBA, NHL, NFL & MLB game. I hope he isn't afraid of heights because we couldn't get much higher! Fortunately, Lee's friend (who works for the Heat) hooked us up with great seats in the 2nd half.

Stay tuned for a growing belly picture!

Surprise Baby Shower at Work

2009-02-26T15:25:00.001-08:00

My co-workers and friends threw me a suprise baby shower after school today. Thank you so much to the reading team for the food and decorations. You guys are the best!

Thanks for the awesome cake, Bridget!

I can't wait to dress Baby Petey in all his new clothes!

Check out this punch Billie made!

Last weekend we went to the beach and Big Daddy enjoyed a quiet nap. We have been told to get sleep now!

Baby Shower - Pool Party!

2009-02-17T17:22:00.000-08:00

ALL FRIENDS AND FAMILY INVITED!

WHEN: Saturday, March 7th - 2:00 p.m.

Where: The Villas at Emerald Dunes Clubhouse & Pool

RSVP to Billie or Regina

Baby Petey is registered at Babys R' Us & Target

Baby Petey Listens!

2009-02-17T17:02:00.000-08:00

In the last post, I shared that my Dr. thought I was measuring a little small so Lee and I have been encouraging Baby Petey to GROW and he has listened very well. I had a check-up today and no ultrasound was ordered because I was back measuring in range. Over the last few days, I have really experienced some "Jackie Chan" like kicks. It's pretty cool except when it wakes me up in the middle of the night! Last night Lee and I visited St. Mary's Hospital for a birthing orientation. We received a tour of the OB floors, watched a birthing video (Yikes!), and participated in an answer-question session. We are going to be signing up for a couple of their free classes including Daddy Boot Camp! We had a wonderful Valentine's Day weekend despite Lee having a bad cold. Sunday we took Baby Petey to his first NHL game. Don't worry Dad & Roger, the hockey puck is not replacing the football!

Buy one, get one free nose bleed seats! :)

10 Weeks and Counting!

2009-02-13T17:58:00.000-08:00

Per many of your requests, I took a few self portraits this morning. I actually didn't try to cut off my head but I figured it was ok since the requests were for "tummy" pictures not facial profiles. Tomorrow I will be 30 weeks. I definitely feel like I am getting bigger every day and people are finally starting to notice at work. In my head, I'm thinking, "how could you not?" An 8th grade girl told another teacher that she thought I was just gaining weight. haha! I'm doing that too! The sciatic nerve pain I was experiencing is gone! Wohoo! I am back exercising and not requesting nightly massages. At my last Dr.'s appointment (almost 2 weeks ago now), my uterus was measuring a little small but the Dr. said we would wait until the next appointment to determine whether an ultrasound should be ordered. We've been telling Baby Petey he needs to grow every day and I really think he has. My next apt is Tuesday (17th). I will keep you updated! HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

Nice workout clothes, huh?!

27 Weeks

2009-01-25T18:10:00.001-08:00

Oops, I did not realize I was blending into the background until posting this. There's no hiding the belly these days. I'm officially out of my "regular" dress pants. Well, for over 6 months, I've been telling you I feel great! Well, I unfortunately cannot say that at the moment. I still have not experienced nausea or sickness. However, a couple of weeks ago I thought I pulled a muscle in my lower back. It worsened and the pain started shooting down my leg. I called the Dr. and after a visit, learned that the pain is from my sciatic nerve. As your baby grows, your uterus may press on the sciatic nerve, which connects your legs to your spinal cord. Sciatica is a sharp or aching pain that usually starts in the lower back or buttock and sometimes seems to shoot down the back of the leg to the calf or heel. Needless to say, it's been quite a nuisance and has really halted those nightly walks Lee and I were taking. Lee told Baby Petey he was in timeout. His movements are getting more forceful these days. It's so cool and surreal.

24 Weeks and 3 Days

2009-01-06T16:36:00.000-08:00

Our little boy is 24 weeks and 3 days old. He weights 1lb, 11 oz. and is about 13 inches long. Over the last couple of weeks, we have gotten to feel him move around. He seems to squirm the most when Lee tries to sing to him. We are relearning our nursey rhymes. It's funny how wrong we had some of them!

Isn't technology amazing? Our little alien is coming to life!

I told my 8th grade class today that I was pregnant. They couldn't believe that I was already 6 months along. Lee shared the website video with his 5th graders today. Now they are demanding that they know the name. Hopefully they'll tell me if they find out!

Baby It's Cold Outside

2009-01-04T18:18:00.000-08:00

The day before we left for our Florida sunshine, we had 10 inches of snow. I am just about 24 weeks in the photo.

WE'RE HAVING A ...

2009-01-04T17:03:00.000-08:00

Press play to find out if your vote was right!

The nurse wrote the sex of our baby and included an ultrasound picture in a Christmas card. The card was displayed in our tree for almost a month. The first thing we did Christmas morning was open our special gift!

Eating for Two at Christmas!

2009-01-04T16:38:00.000-08:00

It was great to be with family over Christmas. We spent 5 days in Hawley, MN and 5 in Abbotsford, WI. My niece Taylor (21 months) is getting big & we can't wait to watch her with her cousin next Christmas!

Lee's parents are excited for their first grandchild. It was great that all of the Peterson boys could be home at the same time. Buddy (the dog) offered plenty of entertainment. Next year he'll have to share the spotlight!

Thanksgiving in the Keys

2008-11-30T18:00:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING! The 3 of us (LP, JP & BP) spent the weekend in Key West with friends. We stayed in a 10 person house one block from Duval Street. We had a great time renting scooters, going to the beach, and catching amazing sunsets. We got to show off our new shirts one night and BP got Daddy a Thanksgiving gift!

10 Little Fingers & 10 Little Toes

2008-11-25T17:00:00.001-08:00

Baby Peterson is 18 weeks and 3 days! Today we had an anatomy ultrasound. Lee came with me. I love when he comes because he asks 100 questions! We got to see the heart, kidneys, brain, fingers, and .... NOPE - no "gender specific" parts! The technician said she could tell the sex but Big Daddy didn't want to know (until we got into the parking lot and he asked if we should go back and ask.) What a guy! BP was being difficult too just like Big Daddy. BP would not turn towards us. We were told that our baby is positioned further back right now and that is why I'm not showing too much yet. I've received some very cool maternity clothes from our moms so I am ready with a new wardrobe!! Thanks Mom and Tammy!!

Belly Shot: 4 Months, 3 Days

2008-11-18T17:00:00.000-08:00

The baby belly is growing. It seems to stick out more at night. We took this picture at 8 p.m. I haven't dove into the maternity clothes yet but I'm sure it's coming!

We went to the beach Sunday. I don't have many bikini days left! Although a friend of mine believes that the best time to wear a bikini is when you're pregnant!

Big Daddy (as he likes to call himself) wanted in on the "modeling" too! He's doing one of the things I can't do anymore.... suck in my stomach! :-)

Our "alien" baby

2008-11-10T08:03:00.001-08:00

BP is 16 weeks and 2 days old. The length is harder to detect; however, the head to the rump is 12 cm so BP is probably around 16 cm long. Grow baby grow! The picture is of BP's face; we love our little alien.

2008-11-02T16:16:00.000-08:00

BP's FIRST PICTURES

13 weeks - 8 cm

11 weeks, 4 days - 5.2 cm

9 weeks, 3 days - 2.75 cm

2008-10-26T13:40:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends & Family!

Welcome to Baby Peterson's Blog! We will be referring to our little one as BP throughout the website.... :) I am officially through my first trimester. We are entering week 15. I am feeling great! No morning sickness or nausea, just a little tired. The baby bump arrived last weekend; we kind of think it popped over night! We are looking forward to sharing weekly updates with you! We miss everyone back home so much but our friends in Florida have been very supportive!

BP's First Halloween

Last night Lee and I joined friends at a Halloween celebration in downtown WP. We dressed in 50's apparel. It was a lot of fun.

Lee's dad learning he's going to be a Grandpa!

2008-10-26T13:27:00.000-07:00

Lee's Dad was in town so we got to share the news with him in person! We gave him some swimming gear for BP to take back to the lake. Grandpa Peterson was lost for words! Grandma Peterson is listening to the celebration.