Trick-or-Treating

What could be better? Trick-or-treating started out Friday afternoon at Quarles & Brady. Then, tonight, we went all around our neighborhood. It was a little cold, but at least it wasn't snowing. More than one person told Jack that he won the award for the cutest trick-or-treater. We couldn't argue with that :)

We Love Fall

A couple of pictures of the boys in their costumes. Jack is a cowboy...Will is his pony. I think we'll have to come up with a more equal distribution of authority in the future or Will is going to get a complex.

YEE-HAW!

Today, I Delivered A Baby

This is not the actual baby, of course, but is fairly representative of the situation described below.

I've been working the night shift in the Labor & Delivery unit for the past four nights. Usually, the medical student's role is fairly limited; for the most part all we do is watch, maybe pass instruments to the doctors as they repair any tears, or catch the placenta in a bowl when it is delivered and inspect it to make sure it came out whole. On my third night, I was given the opportunity to catch a baby, with the resident's assistance, under the guidance of the attending physician. I stood next to the resident in between the mother's legs. He showed me where to put my hands, made sure I was putting the right amount of pressure in the right places, and, of course, made sure I didn't drop the slippery little alien. That was a really cool experience that not that many medical students get, at least not here in Madison.

Early this morning, however, I had an experience that was cool on a whole different level. At about 4:00am, we had a lady ready to start making the final push to get her baby out. She was a first time mother who had decided against an epidural (although, she later decided she wanted one, but it was too late at that point...) who was not dealing very well with the pains of labor. She wasn't pushing very effectively and the baby was not progressing down the pelvis very quickly at all.

A little bit of background, to set the scene: most deliveries here are attended by the attending physician, who is mostly there to give guidance and in case of emergency, the junior and/or senior resident, who does most of the actual delivering of the baby, at least one labor nurse, who participates mostly in the coaching of the mother, and a medical student. There is, however, a clinic at the hospital run by the residents and when patients from that clinic deliver, the delivery is run by just the residents. The attending physician may pop in and out occasionally, but they don't stay for the whole thing. Our patient was one of those resident clinic patients, meaning the attending wasn't around during the most of the delivery. The patient and her husband were Spanish speakers, so there was an interpreter in the room. Now, back to the story.

When it seemed clear that the labor wasn't going to progress very rapidly, the senior resident told me to go hold up one of the patient's legs and work with the labor nurse encouraging the patient to continue to push during contractions, while the junior and senior residents went down the hall to check on another patient. Once the residents were out of the room, it seemed to me that much more progress was being made on each push, but the labor nurse apparently didn't notice, so we just kept having her push. After a few minutes, the patient decided that she might like to try squatting, so the labor nurse left to get a bar that attaches to the bed that helps support the patient in the squatting position. That left the patient, her husband, the translator, and myself in the room...

From the time the nurse left the room until the time of delivery was probably about a minute. As soon as she left, the head started crowning. I told the patient to stop pushing, but she apparently was not going to delay delivery any longer than was absolutely necessary and continued to push through contractions. The residents had been so sure that delivery was not imminent that we had not even gowned and gloved, so I was standing there in just my scrubs, wearing a pair of normal old non-sterile latex gloves which, thank goodness, I had just happened to put on when I came in the room. The baby's head was getting close enough to coming out that I decided I had to put some back pressure on it, despite my non-sterility, as I had been shown how to do the night before by the resident. On the next contraction, the head popped out completely, splattering goo all over my arms, my scrubs, and a little on my face. At that point, there was no waiting or going back, so I told the interpreter to run and get the residents, while I guided the shoulders out, first gently pushing down to deliver the top shoulder, then guiding the baby up to get the bottom shoulder out. After that, it was just one more push and the whole thing squirted out. About that time the residents came running in to see me holding the crying baby. They clamped the cord, the dad cut it, and nobody skipped a beat. I don't think the parents even knew that anything out of the ordinary had happened.

So that's the story of how I delivered a baby. It was by far the coolest thing I have done since starting medical school. I still don't want to be an OB, but I'm glad I'll always be able to say I delivered a baby at least once.

Gibraltar Rock and Merrimac Ferry

To kick off our long weekend, we decided to take a little day trip to a couple of places I remember going when I was little. We started by heading to Subway to pick up some sandwiches for a picnic lunch later. Then we drove about 45 minutes northwest to Gibraltar Rock, where we walked up a short, but steep, trail to a great view over some 200ft cliffs. Then we drove over to the Merrimac Ferry, where we ate our lunch and took a ferry ride across the Wisconsin River and back. Nana came with us, which was Jack's favorite part, by far.

The Past Couple of Months...

...have been really busy. Surgery rotation was a time commitment like nothing I've ever done before. Up by 4:00am most mornings and home from the hospital by about 7:00pm, with loads of reading to do before the next day. Needless to say, I haven't had much time for updating the blog. So here are some things that both you and I missed over the past 8 weeks.

Florida - Round 2

I took Step 1 of the US Medical Licensing Exam (frequently referred to as "the boards") on June 26. The 8 hour exam was, by far, the most difficult test I have ever taken. Since we got back from our Florida trip with my family earlier this summer, I had spent every dang day studying for that stupid test. The Sunday after I took the test, we headed back to Florida to spend a week with Stef's parents, her sister Kina, and our possibly soon to be brother-in-law (if he ever pops the question), Kyle. We spent a little time at Disney World, went to see a movie (Up in 3D, highly recommended), paddled down the Loxahatchee River, took an airboat ride through the Everglades, and visited the beach in Miami. It was a slow paced, relaxing trip. We had a great time.

Father's Day Pie

This is what our ward does for Father's Day.

Mmmmmmmm....pie.

My Bonsai Tree

For an early Father's Day present, we got a bonsai tree for my dad and one for me.  We bought them from the Badger Bonsai Club, which meets in Madison, and attended their monthly meeting so that the club president could help us with the initial pruning.  Now the goal is to keep the trees alive.  I'm hoping that since we have the Bonsai Club as a resource, they may just survive.

Hey Goat

Stef got together with a couple of friends last week to take their kids to the zoo.  While at the zoo they got to feed some goats.  Erica Allen was fine with feeding the goats...

And so was Will Davis...

But not Jack Delorey.

"This is as far as I come, goat."

Badger Brothers

Just a few pictures of the boys.  Yeah, Will is a giant fatty, but he's a great baby.  Jack was not thrilled to be next to him at first, but he warmed up to the idea.

The Best Show in Town

They are getting ready to build another row of townhouses across the street from us, so yesterday there was a backhoe and dumptruck removing a giant pile of dirt that had been on the building site. This was like a dream come true for Jack, so he, Stef, and Will sat on the front steps to watch the show.  There was also some sidewalk chalk and apple juice involved.  What could be better?  

It's Potty Time!

He wants to go.  He really does.  The only problem...when he tries to go, he tenses every muscle in his body so tight, nothing is going to sneak out those holes!  How do you explain the concept of relaxing your sphincters to a two year old?  At least we got over the "fear of the potty" stage. Hopefully it won't be long now.

He does have his own little potty, but sometimes he just wants to sit on the big one.

Helping Mommy with the Laundry

Just a couple of pictures of our boys.  It's incredible to me how fast Will is growing up (and growing out...he's a chub).  I could have sworn we were just at the hospital and he's already two months old.  If time keeps accelerating like this, I'm gonna be dead before I know it!

Delorey Disney Invasion

We had a fantastic time with our family down in Florida.  The weather did not quite cooperate, but the one day that it didn't rain was dang hot, so maybe it was better that it rained.  Seeing everyone was the best part anyways.  I always come home from our Dinsey trips more tired than when we left, but it's so worth it to have the whole family together.

Two Down, Two to Go

That was a lot of work.

Jack's Birthday

We had Jack's birthday party on Sunday.  Per Jack's request, the theme was Mickey Mouse and pizza was served for dinner.  He also opened a myriad of presents (of which I spared you most of the pictures) and had his first experience with attempting to blow out a candle (we're going to work on less spit and more air next year).  I kind of liked the "celebrate the birthday when it's convenient" thing.  I think we might make it a tradition.  That way, the kids will never know when their birthdays are going to be, so they can anticipate them all year long.

Jack's Birthdate

Yes, Jack was born two years ago on this very day.  Stef and I decided that, although today is his birthdate, his birthday will be on Sunday so that Chuck and James can be there to help him celebrate.  And, so as not to give Jack the impression that he gets two birthdays every year (we don't need to spoil him any more than he already is), today was just a normal day around our house.  We even took him to get a haircut (which he hates).

He does know that his birthday is coming up, though, and is very happy to be another year older.  In fact, if you ask him how old he is, he will say "three," unless you say, "How old are you REALLY?", in which case he'll admit that he is two.  Only two years old and already lying about his age.

Easter Pictures

Here are some pictures from the obligatory Easter photoshoot.  Jack is clearly growing into a little boy, as he despises taking pictures.  I can relate.  He's also starting to test the limits of his parents' patience, but we still love him, terrible two tantrums and all.  Also, note how dang good Stef looks for having had a baby two and a half weeks ago.  Amazing!

A Little More Will

A few more pictures.

Having the Baby

Here are some more pictures from yesterday.  All in all, a great day.

Day Two

Today Jack and Grandma Becky brought Will and Stef some presents.  Stef got balloons and flowers and Will got clothes and a stuffed duck.  Jack is starting to warm up to Will a little, and when Will gave Jack a Mickey Mouse hat as a present, Jack was even willing to give Will a kiss.  By far, though, Jack's favorite part of the hospital is the free food.  When Grandma Becky asked him if he wanted to come see Mommy and Will this morning, his reply was "Cookies?" :)

William James Delorey

Here are a couple of pictures to hold you over until I can sort through the rest and pick out some good ones.  This labor and delivery could not have gone more differently than Jack's.  We were at the hospital for hours and it seemed like nothing was happening, then all of a sudden the real contractions started kicking in, Stef got her epidural, the pushing began, and 20 minutes later we had a baby.  Stef, once again, did a phenomenal job and her recovery is truly amazing to watch.  You would hardly know that she just had a baby.

Jack is not so sure about Will.  I would say that his attitude was tentative when they were introduced.  He eventually got comfortable enough to point to certain parts of Will's body (nose, knees, fingers), but giving him a kiss was way out of the question.I can't end the post without a picture of the star of the show.  She just had a baby and she still looks beautiful.  Great job, Stef!

Snack with the Larsons

This picture was taken at Dan and Julie's house when we visited Utah over Christmas.  I just happened to see it today and thought it was cute.  These kids are all business when it comes to snacks.

The Belly

Here it is, in all its glory.  Stef has actually been doing a really good job staying fit and healthy during the pregnancy (she may be eating a Peep or two more than her daily recommended allowance).  She works out at the gym for 1-1.5 hours every day...although I'm not sure if staying fit is more the motivation, or if it's having somebody else watch Jack for an hour and a half.  Regardless, it's been good for her and the baby, and it shows.

Valentine's Day Party

Well, we've gone almost two months without a post, so I guess it's about time we got some pictures up here.  The Church playgroup had a Valentine's Day party last week.  Jack and Stef both had a great time.  Jack got to sniff some paint markers, deliver valentines, and chow down on lots of treats.  We'll try to get a picture of Stef's giant belly on here soon too.  Baby day is two months from today!

Snapshots

Stef has been borrowing her mom's little camera to carry in the diaper bag so she can catch all the cute little candid moments of Jack without lugging around our very awesome, but very large, SLR camera. Since Stef got a little camera of her own for Christmas, it became time to clear the pictures off her mom's camera so she can return it. She got some cute pictures that span a couple of months and many events, so I decided to post them all together. Be warned, there are a lot of them.

Opening Presents - Round 2

So, we didn't get many pictures of Jack opening presents this morning because getting him to open them was like pulling teeth. Every present was so great that he had no interest in the next one. Once they were all open, though, he did have a great time playing with them. He especially likes his play house barn and his new kitchen.

Opening Presents - Round 1

Jack had a great time opening presents at Nana and Papa's house (until the last present or two, which he refused to open). He was spoiled, as usual. A word of advice - don't open the best present until the very end, or all present opening will cease. After Jack opened his dump truck, it was over for him!  I'm sure he was thinking, "What could possibly be in those presents that will be better than this awesome dump truck!"

Santa Clause Came to Town

Santa came during Jack's nap. He brought an awesome kitchen (much assembly required) and a tool box full of tools. Click through the pictures to see just how awesome his kitchen is. We'll post some pictures of Jack's reaction tomorrow morning (we're hoping that he at least notices there are new toys in his already full toy room).

Christmas Eve Ice Skating

In keeping with tradition, the Lake Mills Ward had their Christmas Eve Day skating party today.  Since we are lucky enough to be related to the man in charge over there in Lake Mills, we got to go too.  One half of the rink was dedicated to free skating, where Jack had a great time getting pulled in a sled by Nana.  Stef is a good skater, but selflessly stayed off the ice (and ate doughnuts and manned the camera) to make sure the baby didn't get hurt.  The other half of the rink was for hockey, where we had a great game going with James, Chuck, Papa, and several other people.  We sure could have used a couple more Delorey skaters though, Mark and Dan.  It just wasn't as good as last year (although, it was nice to have Chuck back).

Jack and Santa

At our ward Christmas party.

Stef Doing Some Modeling

When we had our 20 week ultrasound, they asked Stef if she would come back and be a model for a training seminar the hospital was holding on how to correctly image fetal hearts.  She would have done it anyways, but they promised her more ultrasound pictures of the baby, so that sealed the deal.  Today was the day, so she spent an hour or so at the hospital in Madison with several doctors, ultrasound technicians, and ultrasound technician students taking turns looking at the baby.  She said it was pretty fun, actually.  And they gave her a $25 gift card to Target, along with the promised ultrasound pictures.  

Jack's Little Brother

We found out today, baby number two is a boy!  The ultrasound was very cool and everything looked normal, so we were thrilled.  We can't wait to welcome William James to the family.  Twenty weeks down, twenty to go. 

Click the title of the post for more pictures of the ultrasound.

Grandma and Grandpa's Halloween Visit

Jack loves it when his Grandma and Grandpa Neeley come to visit.  They have certainly taken to their role as Grandparents (spoiling their grandson).  I think we're going to have to take away his toys and give him some spankings once they leave just to bring him back to reality :)

Halloween in Nauvoo

Stef and Jack met Grandma and Grandpa Neeley in Nauvoo, IL, to enjoy the Halloween festivities.

Peter Pan Picks His Pumpkin

Stef and Great Grandma and Grandpa Neeley took Jack over to the pumpkin patch to pick out some pumpkins.  Really it was just an excuse for Stef to get Jack all dressed up in his costume.

Just Living Life

Nothing especially blog worthy has happened recently, but I thought I'd put up some pictures of us just living life so you can see how big Jack is getting.  His smiley little face has definitely gotten me through more than one long day.

It's Finally FINISHED!!!

With the addition of our couches, which were delivered yesterday, our basement is officially FINISHED!!!  It was a lot of work, went slightly over budget and a little past when I wanted to get it finished, and involved a near death experience, but now that it's done, it was all worth it.  Jack loves his new playroom and I love my new "playroom".  I think Stef is just glad to have the hammering done with.  A huge thanks to everyone who helped along the way.  Hopefully you can all come visit and enjoy a movie.

The Zoo

Jack and his girlfriend, Emma, took their moms to the zoo today.  I can't give you much in the way of details, as I was stuck in the books, as usual (woe is me).  Judging from the pictures, I would say they had a good time (although you can't really tell they're at the zoo, as there are no animals in any of the pictures).  Stef did say that Jack kept calling the seals "Dada", so either I'm not spending enough time with him and he's forgotten who I am, or I really need to go on a diet :)

Storytime

Jack has finally started taking an interest in actually reading books...although he's also had an increasing interest in TV.  Until now, reading with Jack was pretty much just having him sit on your lap and seeing how fast he could turn the pages.  Now he'll actually look at the pages long enough for you to read most, if not all, of the words.  His current favorite book is Trashy Town (don't worry, it's G rated), about the trusty garbage man, Mr. Gilly.  I think he made Stef read it to him 5 or 6 times today.

Youth Conference

As you may or may not know, Stef and I were put in charge of this year's Youth Conference for our Stake.  It took a lot of planning and organization, but I think it really paid off in the end.  It could not have gone more smoothly and I think the youth all had a really worthwhile experience.  We had about 110 people attend, which may not sound like alot, but is pretty good for our Stake.  Stef and I enjoyed working on it together...but we won't be volunteering to do another one any time soon.  The pictures in the album explain the conference's activities.

Door Creek Orchard

As promised, Stef, Jack, and I visited the Door Creek Orchard today. Nana and Papa met us there to help pick the best apples. It was lots of fun but really hot. We'll have to go back once fall gets here for real. By then hopefully their McIntosh and Cortland apples will be ripe. Today they only had Earliblaze and Gala apples. About five minutes into picking the apples Jack choked on a piece of a Gala and puked up his lunch...hence the nakedness of the rest of the pictures. He liked looking at the sheep, until one of them "baaaaaa'd" at him. Then he wasn't so sure anymore. Once we got home, we made a tasty apple crisp. Mmmmm, fall is delicious.

Wisconsin's Rustic Roads

After taking this year's first set of exams, I decided I needed to unwind. I should have cleaned the house...but the weather was so perfect that I took the motorcycle out for a couple of hours instead. Wisconsin has a program where certain roads are designated as Rustic Roads. To qualify as a Rustic Road the road needs to have outstanding natural features along its borders and be a lightly traveled local access road. There are over 100 of them across the state and if you get your picture (or at least a picture of your bike) in front of 10 of them, the state will send you a free "Rustic Road" patch. I got three out of the way today.

The scenery was some of the best that southern Wisconsin has to offer. Rolling hills, endless green fields, and more old barns than you can shake a stick at. I also found a cool little apple orchard that I think I'll take Stef and Jack to when they get back from Colorado.
So, three down and seven to go until I get my free patch. I'll keep you posted when I get to some more. Maybe once the fall colors start showing up.

Cornfest

The Cornfest Parade kicked off the festivities today. Jack liked some parts better than others. As far as parades go, I'd have to say it was pretty lame. There was some candy throwing going on, but most groups only sprung for tootsie rolls (seriously, it was like 85% tootsie rolls) and lots of groups didn't even bother making a float, but just walked behind a car throwing their tootsie rolls. It was the easiest hour and a half of entertaining Jack we've had in a long time though. He was content to just sit on my shoulders and watch for the most part.

Cruise #2: Alaska

Stef and I had a great time in Alaska this past week. The weather wasn't great to start out with, but we had a couple of gorgeous days towards the end. Alaska is absolutely beautiful...and cold. We took a photography tour, got pulled by some sled dogs, rode go-carts through the mountains, and went on a whale watch. As fun as it was though, we were glad to get back to see Jack. Stef's parents were nice enough to watch Jack for a whole week so Stef and I could get away. They posted some funny pictures of their week with Jack on their blog. I recommend you check it out: neeleynuthouse.blogspot.com

Cruise #1: The Carribbean

Stef, Jack, and I got to go on a cruise to the Carribbean last week with Stef's parents. We all had a great time, especially Jack. We left from New York City, visited San Juan, St. Thomas, and Tortola. We shopped, scuba dived, and of course, ate like pigs. We also got all dressed up for Formal Night (twice) and got some portraits taken. As much fun as we had, it's good to be back in our home sweet home...at least until our next adventure, which starts next weekend!

Jack Feeding the Stinky Dog

Jack being Jack.

Jack Walking

Here's the proof, he finally walks. He's actually gotten better since this video was taken. You'll see, he's not that good yet in the video.

Beautiful Wisconsin Weather

Here are some pictures of Stef and Jack enjoying the beautiful Wisconsin weather. Yes, there really is such a thing. And we appreciate it all the more after having endured 9 months of winter :)

Jack's First Birthday

Jack turned one today! It was a fun day and gorgeous weather. Jack didn't really care for opening presents or eating cake, but he sure liked his ball pit. He got lots of neat presents, which I'm sure he'll enjoy more now that they're not wrapped.

Bath Time

Pretty soon Jack will be too old for us to put videos of him naked on the internet, so we better do it while we can :) Besides, bath time is one of Jack's favorite times. At the end of the first clip, Jack will demonstrate for you what a duck says. You may recall that "duck" was Jack's first word. Since then, he has taken to speaking mostly in "quacks".

Busy, Busy, Busy

This is just some candid video that Stef shot of Jack set to some appropriate music.

Emma's Birthday Party

Jack had his first experience with birthday parties today. His friend Emma, who goes to swimming lessons and story time with Jack, turned one last week and had her party today. At first Jack was cautious, but became the life of the party in no time. It got him (mostly Stef really) excited for his pseudo-party tomorrow (Mom, Dad, and James are just coming over for a cookout)! The last couple pictures in the photo gallery are of the setup for Jack's birthday party. Keep in mind that Stef and I decided not to have a birthday party for Jack this year since he won't remember it anyways. I would hate to see what our house would have looked like had we decided to have a party :) Notice the 3-D duck cake, made for the sole purpose of Jack's destructive pleasure (there is another cake for us in the refridgerator).

The Emperor's New Clothes

Stef got some cute pictures of Jack in his favorite outfit! I think Stef would walk around like this if she could too. I should also mention that Jack is now officially walking. That is, he takes more than one step before resorting to crawling, which is what he did for a long time. Now, he has actually deliberately walked from one place to another, taking more than 6 consecutive steps (that's how we decided to define walking). Walking is not yet his preferred mode of travel, but I think he's getting convinced of its utility. We'll see if we can't get some video of it to post on here.

Stef Got Tagged

10 Years Ago: I was 14 and had just moved from Omaha, NE to Ft. Lauderdale, FL. I was boy crazy and was starting the phase where I didn't get along with my parents. My dad told me I was "self actualizing".

5 things on my to-do list today:
1. Plan Sharing time for primary next week.
2. Wrap Jack's birthday presents.
3. Watch John Adams.
4. Plan shopping list for tomorrows shopping trip.
5. Give Ed a BIG Kiss.

Things I would do if I were suddenly made a billionaire: Travel!! I want to see the world. Some places I want to go: China, Greece, Germany, Peru, and Italy. Also, I would work at Disney World for free. And I would live in a little apartment above Main Street USA.

3 of my bad habits:
-I don't pick up the dog poop in the back yard. There is a whole winter's worth out there currently.
-I start projects but occasionally don't finish them. This includes such things as quilts, scrapbooks, house cleaning, etc.
-I don't return my visiting teachers' phone calls. I should probably repent for that one.

Places I've lived:
Payson, UT
Spanish Fork, UT
Santa Fe, NM
New Orleans, LA
Denver, CO
Aurora, CO
Cheyenne, WY
Jacksonville, FL
Pleasant Grove, UT
Omaha, NE
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Provo, UT
Mesa, AZ
Sun Prairie, WI (by far my favorite :) )

Jobs I've had:
-Memories, Etc... Scrapbook Stores (this was for my parents)
-Flagship Financial Mortgage Loans (this can only loosely be called a job)
-Scuba Ted's (this might be considered my only real job)
-EZ Payroll and Staffing and sister companies (this is also for my parents, but it is a real job too)
The truth is my full time job is being Jack's mommy.

Things most people don't know about me: I used to speak German really well. I even won a German competition in the advanced placement division. I'm a horrible speller. I secretly love the Wiggles, especially Anthony, the blue wiggle. I say I'm watching them for Jack, but I really watch them for me. I like candy that most people find disgusting, such as Peeps and Circus Peanuts. And, I have nightmares about being eaten by a human sized Kermit the Frog and Ms. Piggy.

Easter Package and Spring Arriving

Jack got a great Easter package from his Neeley Grandparents. He had lots of fun playing with it and even more fun playing with the box it came in. The photo gallery also has some pictures of poor baby Jack with the flu and some happier pictures of Jack walking outside now that the weather has warmed up a little.

St. Patrick's Day and Random Pictures

Jack and Stef got their green on for St. Patrick's Day. I decided that I didn't have to wear green since I wear my Irish on my face everyday (and because I don't own anything green). Also included in the album are pictures of Jack's second haircut and a bunch of random snapshots.

A Day in the Life of Jack

The picture captions tell the story. He sure is busy!

Jack's First Word

It appears that Jack's first word is "duck". It sounds more like "du-" most of the time but sometimes he gets the "-ck" sound on there. Anyways, he definitely associates it with his rubber ducky, one of his favorite toys. His other new trick is waving. He's getting pretty good at it. He does both an arm wave and a hand wave, depending on how he's feeling at the moment :)

Cute as a Bug

Here are some pictures of Jack with the quilt that his Grandma Becky made for him. Very cute.

Our Little Valentine

No holiday would be complete without torturing your child with a photoshoot.

Bath Time

Jack loves swimming...even in three inches of water. But the best part of bath time is getting out of the tub and playing with Mommy.

Jack and Stef in Arizona

Stef and Jack had a great few days down in sunny Arizona. They played in the pool a lot. The pool was heated up to 90 degrees, so it was like a giant bathtub. Jack loved it. There are pictures if you click on the title of the post.

Jack Scales the Stairs

Jack's newest trick is climbing the stairs. He's already had one close call, but Stef caught him before he could fall too far. He also threw a tantrum today when I wouldn't let him climb the stairs anymore. What good habits he's developing :) Oh well, we still love him. It's probably our fault anyways. You have to learn how to be parents by practicing on your first kid, right?

Jack Practicing Walking

Jack's starting to take some steps while holding on to his wagon. It gets a little out of control if someone doesn't stand in front of it to slow him down. He's still a little shaky, but I'm sure he'll be walking on his own in no time. We have mixed feelings about that...

Jack's Pony

Jack got a very cool pony from his grandparents in the mail today. Since he loves to climb on everything, we anticipate that he will really like it. He was already tired and getting ready for bed when it was delivered, so he wasn't that impressed tonight. I'm sure he'll have more fun with it tomorrow. Regardless, Jack was happy to have an opportunity to try out his leather vest and cowboy hat.

Family Portrait

When everyone was in Wisconsin we took a family picture. After a little "photoshopping", we finally have a picture where everyone (almost, Ellie) is looking at the camera and looks acceptable. Family, I've posted the picture at original size with four different background colors so you can choose the one you like best if you want to have one developed.

Steamboat Springs

We spent last week with Stef's family at their new place in Steamboat Springs, CO. Jack wasn't feeling well, which made the week more of a challenge, but we had lots of good snow and Stef had a great time on the mountain.

Jack's First Christmas

Jack had a great time opening presents. He had to taste each one of his new presents to make sure he liked them. After the opening was done, he was no longer interested in his presents and played with everything that was not a present, such as a used up wrapping paper tube, a clothes tag, and the fireplace grate. Be warned, I have posted an obscene number of pictures of Jack opening presents. Merry Christmas, Becky.

Christmas Eve Presents

Here are some pictures from opening presents on Christmas Eve. Nana took the girls out to look for Santa, but he stopped by and dropped off the presents while they were gone. He had just gone up the chimney when they got back.

Hockey, Hockey, Hockey!

Dad has done some legal work for the Sun Prairie ice rink, so he was able to get us private access to the rink for a few hours today for free. We had the whole place to ourselves and even had free skate rentals. Several families from the Lake Mills ward came, so we had plenty of people to play a good game of hockey. One half of the rink was set up for family skating and the other half was for hockey. It was a blast...and we only had one injury :)

Jack and Santa

Jack went and visited Santa today. It went much better than his first visit. He seemed to actually like Santa this time. He was wearing the Boston Red Sox sweater he got from Karen and Peter in honor of his East Coast relatives.

Jack and Ellie

Jack and Ellie are having a great time getting to know each other. It's cute seeing them interact.

Jack's First Hair Cut

Jack was getting a little shaggy so his Aunt Stefanie gave him his first hair cut today. He liked having Stefanie play with his hair and he sat very still and quiet. He looks like such a little boy now. Click on the title of this post for more pictures