BEK Life

Sunny and Warm on February 1st!!!

2012-02-01T16:44:00.001-06:00

Wyatt slept in until 10:00! Which meant we got to go outside during the warmest time of the day and we had a blast! We had so much fun exploring the fun fort at our local park! The last time Wyatt went to the park he couldn't walk yet so today was so much fun. We walked around meeting new friends and finding new places to explore!

I love playing with Wyatt and watching him explore and learn. Today was such a gift from God- sunny, upper 50's, and not too windy. We had so much fun and I can't imagine what spring and summer are going to be like with this fun loving little boy! Can't wait for some playdates with some friends with a picnic at the park!

watching the big kids on the swings- he started talking to them.

Women are so important in my life and Wyatt's life

2012-01-31T14:36:00.000-06:00

Today was such a special time. We, Wyatt and me, got to check out a new play place, The Playhouse Cafe. It was so much fun we will surely be back. We hope to take daddy out to lunch there sometime soon!

It was so nice to see some mommas that we haven't been able to connect with in the last months due to work/weather/the holidays. All of the babies are growing up so fast and we are becoming seasoned mothers- whatever that means. It is so amazing to see how we have grown as women, mothers, and friends. I am so blessed to have such a great support system of women around me and around Wyatt. I miss my sisters, cousins, aunts, mother-in-law, sister-in-law, and especially my mom; but since we don't currently live near them I am so thrilled to have such wonderful women in my life. There are times when I have given support and encouragement and then there are times when I'm the one needing the support and encouragement!

My life truly would not be the same without all of you!

Thank you so much to all the women in my life!

Now, Playhouse Cafe, why haven't I known about you for the last 15 months!!!!

We got to the Playhouse Cafe a little early to scope out the place!

I should have snapped some photos of Wyatt playing in the Tot Spot, but I was enjoying watching him, talking with the other moms, and actually getting to eat lunch!

Sitting down with a friend to have lunch.
My little boy is getting so big, no need to use a high chair when they have a kid's table!

He loves grilled cheese and is able to feed himself. Momma is learning when to let and go and let him grow! He surprises me everyday with what he can do! Today it was sitting in a chair all by himself!

Yummy

Sittin' so big!

Having fun with his friends.

Wow....Elmo is so tall!

Wyatt loved the music being played when Elmo came out. He even enjoyed hanging out with Elmo for a bit.

Happy and relaxed.
I had to take him back so Elmo could see the other kids. He was content just to hang out and watch everything from Elmo's arms.

Wyatt's lovey and his newest form of entertainment

2012-01-22T22:58:00.000-06:00

For Christmas Wyatt received many blessings, and so did Momma and daddy! But there were two gifts that have kept giving even until now!

My little boy loves Snoopy from Gm2 (Great grandma Jo). He only goes to be with his snoopy, his blankie animals are no match for his snoopy. I'm thinking we might need to get a spare just in case the unthinkable happens! Thank you so much Gm2 Jo- he wakes up every morning hugging his snoopy. Every nap at home and every bedtime he has snoopy. Even if he falls asleep in my arms I lay him down and he curls his arms around his snoopy.

These shots were from Christmas day. He had opened Gm2 Jo's gift on 12/23 and had grown attached to Snoopy from the very beginning. We took Snoopy to Christmas Eve service for hopes to keep him occupied from talking too much during the service. It worked!

Such a sweet boy

My silly boy

On 12/23 Wyatt also opened his gift from Gm Deah. He absolutely loves his race car ramp. He puts the cars in it, he puts his socks in it, he puts other toys in it, and he also loves to sit in it himself. Though I think he is disappointed that is doesn't spin when he is in it!

One last photo of a boy and his stuffed doggy. I just love this little guy!

2011 Christmas Update - no video this year....

2011-12-29T22:07:00.000-06:00

After one crazy year- We were lucky to get our Christmas cards to the post office before 2012! Though many of our family and friends will receive them in 2012! Oops - well maybe next year....

S- Sometimes it's more important to be in the moment than document it on facebook or blogspot. With a 1 yr old I am getting a post or two up on the blog when he goes to sleep.

K- Kuddos to Wyatt who has become a seasoned traveler flying to Wichita, KS in Dec 2010 and May 2011, a flight to Florida in March and then to Chicago in November! He also started his acting career as baby Jesus at the Christmas Eve service in 2010 and made an appearance this year with his mom and dad.

Baby Jesus - 2010

The telling of the "Night Before Christmas" - New Testament style, 2011

I- I have had fun with my new sewing machine making a few baby blankets, stockings, and pillowcases - on the few occasions that I have some free time - hence the limited on time blog posts.

L- Looking back on the past we thank God for the blessings he has bestowed upon us: our healthy child, our jobs ( Dr. Matt at Elizabethtown College and Rebekah is working full time as a mom. After 10 years of working full time she was able to work part time as a RN and moved from the Emergency Dept to the Medical Intermediate Care Unit), our health, our family, and our friends who are like family.

L- Looking to the future we thank God for his mercy, instruction, grace, and hope as He guides us in this next year.

E- Elated to have celebrated 10 years of marriage with an actual dinner date & Wyatt at home with a babysitter!

12/15/2001- 12/15/2011 and beyond!

N- Never a dull moment is had in this Skillen household with 2 cats, a dog, a momma, a daddy, and a very smart, silly, and sweet little boy!

At first Wyatt wasn't to sure about this event...

Then he got his "cool" look on.

P.S. his photo was taken BEFORE Christmas- I took the photo of the photos with my camera tonight- :)

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-24T22:13:00.000-06:00

Wyatt was baby Jesus in 2010 at 8.5 wks old last Christmas, this year his participated in a family scene reading the REAL night before Christmas story. We got to be part of the Christmas Eve service at the candlelight contemporary service.

Such a special time for us as a family. I am so happy and so blessed to have Christmas Eve and Christmas off this year from work. I really didn't expect to have this time off; but I will gladly enjoy it!

Wyatt has a new lovey- he absolutely loves his snoopy from Gm2 Jo (Great grandma Jo)

I actually really like this shot :)

Matt played during the service as well.

Christmas Stockings- a sewing project

2011-12-19T22:26:00.000-06:00

My Christmas projects that I worked on this last fall...

I forgot to get a photo of Grant's stocking....oops!

Here are the others.... Wyatt's is in the center. My stocking and Matt's stocking were made by my Great Grandmother- she was my inspiration to make the following ones.

My sister Sarah's for her own place, since her original stocking is at mom and dad's

For my sister Jojo's kiddos

For my SIL children

Hangin' out at the house

2011-12-18T13:21:00.000-06:00

Wyatt and I have a lot of fun just hanging around the house, especially when it's cold outside. I also did some picking up around the house today in preparation for Matt's mom coming to visit. We are so excited to share this Christmas with her.

With Wyatt being so mobile now, it's is so much fun to grab the camera and capture some moments of him just exploring his domain. Enjoy!

He loves Regan's bed....dog hair is the newest fashion trend you know.

Love the curls!!!

Absolutely love his smiles. And look at those little long toes!

Just another day of fun at the Skillen house as our little boy proves he's not so little anymore!

Another post typed in Jan 2012.....

12/15/2001 and counting!

2011-12-16T23:15:00.000-06:00

Another post typed in Jan 2012...

Wow, has it really been 10 yrs already? We have had our ups and downs, our highs and lows, our joys and sorrows, but we have made it through all of them together! I am so blessed to have my best friend and my lover in one person! I thank God everyday for such a wonderful husband and now father of our son.

Tonight (one day after our anniversary date) we actually had a babysitter "watch" Wyatt while we went out for dinner. At this stage Wyatt is going down at 6:30 ish at night. We put him to bed and our babysitter was given the monitor and the remote to the TV. Wyatt slept for 9 hrs straight that night! He didn't even know we had left for 3 hrs!

We spent our evening talking! In the middle of our wonderful dinner I told Matt, "This feels weird, my right arm isn't trying to catch a sippy cup, food, or spoon!" We both had a good laugh at the fact of how much our lives have changed in the last year!

To the man I love,

You are such an awesome man and I am so happy to be your wife of 10 years and counting.

A walk down memory lane

10/2001- Engagement photos; 2 months before our wedding!

We both had just turned 21 and 22 in Sept 2001 - we were babies!

December 15, 2001

Our 1 year anniversary!

10 years later.....it is such a blessing!

after dinner and sizing my new watch ( a replacement of the watch Matt bought me 12 yrs ago!) we stopped by Coldwater Creek to model the dress I bought there a week prior.

A beautiful baby boy sleeping & a babysitter back to her home, means a little bit of celebrating for the happy couple with a toast of Moet & Chandone, the same champagne we shared after our wedding!

The flutes are from our 7th Wedding anniversary when we left the ice world of Manhattan, KS and sought refuge back in Wichita in a hotel with heat/electricity. We had been surviving in our apt back in Manhattan for over 5 days without heat!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T23:09:00.000-06:00

Another post typed in Jan 2012....

We had 2 couples over for Thanksgiving and I didn't get any photos.....Oops. Well I guess it was one of those days where I chose to live in the moment and not worry about the camera.....

Wyatt and the Windy City

2011-11-19T15:47:00.001-06:00

The week before Thanksgiving Matt has been going to NCTE since 2007. This was the first year I was able to go on the trip with him, and so we decided to make it a family trip. We've gone out and about to places we can walk- so some places have been out of our reach, just an excuse to come back and visit again!

Dinner at Macy's Walnut Room under The Great Christmas Tree! Such a great family memory.

A few sights walking around Michigan Avenue towards our hotel.

Millenium Park ice rink- maybe next time we can take Wyatt on the ice!

Wyatt will have to see the sites next time, he was sleeping.

We got back to the hotel and Wyatt woke up from his 2 hr nap! He decided to stretch his legs and hang out with dad.

We are truly enjoying our time in Chicago- it truly is one unique city that we hope to visit again.

Big boy carseat

2011-11-16T23:12:00.000-06:00

Another post typed in Jan 2012...

Goodbye infant car seat...

Hello Big Boy seat

such a silly face!

We got them installed in both vehicles and are ready to go! I think he likes his new seats.

Swimming and Alpacas

2011-11-12T22:33:00.000-06:00

Another post typed in Jan 2012....

Wyatt has been taking swimming lessons and loving it. He has even handled going underwater well. By then end of his first session of 6 classes he is trying to figure out how to blow bubbles. We are excited to see what he learns at his next session in January!

My absolute favorite shot! He's such a ham!

After this particular class we had lunch and then went to a local alpaca farm that was having their annual fall open house. Wyatt had gotten himself an alpaca hat when we saw the alpacas at the Central Market in Lancaster. I found a purple hat for myself while we were here. Wyatt got to pet the alpacas and kept signing the sign for dog! Well, I guess they do look like big dogs to a 1 year old!

All bundled up, it was a little cooler than we had expected. I was glad I had a hoodie in the trunk of the car.

Dodge City

2011-11-10T19:08:00.000-06:00

Dodge City in Harrisburg? Yep, it even made it on to Kitchen Impossible! We never went to it before the makeover. Our friends Lloyd and Karen saw it on TV and I caught the very end of the episode, so we decided to check it out.

We did like the food and the atmosphere was nice. It wasn't very busy on a Thursday at 7PM- we think they cater to a crowd that eats a little earlier.......we saw some of them leaving as we were walking in. I was grateful that there wasn't very many people because Wyatt is becoming a very verbal boy and at almost 13 months expecting him to sit still for a nice dinner is just not realistic. Towards the end of dinner and before dessert Wyatt and I walked around to check out the place. Then Matt took his turn letting Wyatt show him around.

This photo is when I realized I didn't have a baby on my hands anymore! He's getting so big!

Wyatt was all business on the horse as Grant was all smiles.

Happy 2nd Halloween!

2011-10-31T18:50:00.000-05:00

A year ago we had an 11 day old baby on Halloween, this year we have a 1 yr old toddler! How the time flies!

Wyatt's friend Grant came over to celebrate his first Halloween.

Trunk or Treat at St. Paul's UMC

2011-10-30T18:35:00.000-05:00

Another post typed in Jan 2012....

Our church has Trunk or Treat each year. Usually it's held outside, hence Trunk or Treat; but this year it was too cold so the fun was moved to the indoors and it became Table or Treat - I guess that's what you would call it!

I had secretly snagged a second costume from a friend of mine just for this day. I knew it would be a hit and that Matt would get a kick out of it. Everyone at church loved Matt's "guitar". The costume is even the same color as the one he really plays on Sundays!

1 yr old!

2011-10-29T10:00:00.000-05:00

Wyatt turned 1 yr old on 10/20/2011. We got his 1 yr photos today 10/29/2011. It rained, snowed, and was not an ideal day for outdoor photos. Maybe next year we'll get to go outside.

By year one Wyatt is walking with assistance and taking a few steps on his own. A professional crawler, he can do laps around the living room and loves to explore. He is able to master going up the staircase with ease and loves to interact with anyone. Here are some of our favorites!

Give me a few more weeks and I will be walking like a pro!

Just want to eat up those cheeks and those eyes just make me melt!

going up the stairs!

I can reach the summit in seconds!

I'm cool like my dad!

My giraffe's

My sweet little giraffe going up the stairs again :)

Playing peek a boo with daddy! Can you see the snow in the background?

I like your hat daddy.

Hmmm, can have your hat too?

What a difference a year makes! Our little man is growing so fast!

Thank you Diana for braving the October snowfall to come and shoot Wyatt's one year photos! If you like Diana's work you can contact her at robinsond513@gmail.com

Pumpkin Glow at Hershey Gardens

2011-10-21T18:38:00.000-05:00

Yet another post typed in Jan 2012

Every fall Hershey Garden's staff carve many pumpkins throughout the season to provide visitors with Pumpkin Glow. Everyone walks along the garden paths to different stops along the way for candy. Because we have a discovery pass- we get in free! We bundled Wyatt up- Pjs and then his costume- he stayed nice and warm in his beco carrier! He is saying "thank you" by now, but when prompted after receiving candy he won't say it. Maybe it's because he knows he's not getting any of the candy this year.

We got free FULL size Hershey candies- including a Hershey Chocolate Bar!

Angry birds and someone's iphone taking the photo- how ironic.

It's a pumpkin tree!

Wyatt and daddy enjoying the night

Star Wars

Matt laughed when we saw this one- we may need to recreate this one next year.

Wyatt must have seen something he liked. He has started the pointing phase.

One last pumpkin display for our little pumpkin who is now 1 year and 1 day old!

Happy Birthday Little One

2011-10-20T03:24:00.000-05:00

One year ago today at 0324 we welcomed you into the world.

You are growing so fast and we love you so much.

Video of Wyatt's Birthday Party

2011-10-12T22:55:00.002-05:00

I love the fact that Matt is so good at audiovisual stuff!

Wyatt- a year in photos!

2011-10-12T22:51:00.003-05:00

Matt put a slide show together that played throughout the party. I can't believe it's been a year!

A Birthday Party for our Little Pumpkin!

2011-10-12T22:40:00.001-05:00

Saturday October 8, 2011 we celebrated Wyatt's birthday a little early!

We rented the friendship hall and playground at our church, St. Paul's United Methodist Church for Wyatt's party. We could not have had better weather. Wyatt was ready to party, as he had been such a big boy and took a 2 hr 15min nap prior to his party!

Happy Birthday to our Little Pumpkin!
Wyatt's cake was made at Giant in Etown and decorated by Ashley- she's awesome. We also purchased pumpkin cupcakes from Cathy Adams. She has been making cupcakes as a fundraiser for a family raising funds to adopt a little boy.

Since he is so mobile, he spent a little time in his portable crib so we could set up the room! He loved his balloon!

The pumpkins are ready to be decorated!

Some of the artists

Pumpkin pinata!

Run for the chocolate!

Getting ready for cake

First experience with cake and icing!

This pumpkin cupcake looks interesting....

Hmmm, I guess I will pose for a photo.

What happens if I turn it upside down?

Icing tastes good

It tastes really GOOD!

Mom took the candy pumpkin off, now I got this!

I really like this icing...

Forget table manners, I'm going for it!

I've been practicing with fruits and veggies for this!

They moved me inside so everyone else could enjoy the cake and I could finish mine.

Wyatt enjoyed trying to figure out what he was suppose to do with his gifts. We caught a few that he opened on the camera. His expressions are priceless.

g-paw Ron (a dear friend from church) had, in my opinion, the best wrapping job!
It was the perfect size for Wyatt to explore!

g-paw Ron's daughter knitted Wyatt a hat and mittens!

Wyatt will learn about Recycling from Parker

I think Wyatt will love trains!

Wyatt loves Karen

After the party Karen had the idea to gather all the left over balloons for a photo op! I am so glad she thought of this- she got some awesome photos!

Two boys exploring

We said goodbye to the balloons to end the day

The day was such a special time and it went by so fast! We wish our families could be with us for this special day, but we were so blessed with our local friends and church family. A special thank you to all who were able to attend. Thank you so much to Karen and Lloyd who helped with set up, photography, clean up, and just being there for support. We couldn't have done this without you. To our family, we could feel your thoughts and knew you were here in spirit!

With love,
Matt, Rebekah, and Wyatt

Happy Fall!

2011-09-21T20:40:00.000-05:00

I cannot believe it's been 5 months since my last post and longer than that for reading other blogs!

So, welcome fall! Last fall I bought pumpkins to sit on the porch, this year I bought pumpkins for a last minute photo shoot for Wyatt and his friend Grant. We were going to join Grant at his photo shoot at a local pumpkin patch, but at that location is was pouring down rain, per the photographer. I told Grant's mommy we could get photos at my house, so I ran to a farm a few miles out of town, grabbed some pumpkins and headed back to my house after picking up some Chinese take out for dinner.

We got some great photos of the boys! They were such good sports and I think they even enjoyed exploring the new textures and shapes of the pumpkins and gourds.

My little giraffe!

Profile shot

It so hard to believe that 11 months ago I was 8 months pregnant.

I'm a little biased, but what a cutie!

WE LOVE FALL!

Lancaster Barnstomers

2011-06-14T19:51:00.000-05:00

Another post typed in Jan 2012...

We got invited to celebrate Patrick receiving an Unsung Hero Award, by getting to watch a Lancaster Barnstormer game from a sky box complete with soda and food. We've had a pretty cold fall, so Wyatt and myself watched most of the game from inside "the box".

Patrick is the worship leader's son and is interested in pursuing a career in sound so naturally they have had a lot to talk about.

The boys watching the game outside while the sun is still out. Once it went behind the clouds Wyatt and I went inside.

Wyatt meeting the Barnstormer mascot

Congrats Patrick, make sure to put this down on your college application!

One of our first of many outings to Hershey Park

2011-06-13T16:40:00.000-05:00

Again, another post catch up completed in Jan 2012.

We did the math and looking at getting a pool pass was going to cost us almost the same amount as Hershey Park passes and the pool pass would only be good for the summer season....hmmm sounds like Hershey pass is the better deal! We also have the discovery pass so we get in to the Hershey Story and the Hershey Gardens free as well as 15% off at Cafe' Zooka.

The entrance to the park with our Passes!

Ready to check out the park!

We walked around the park and enjoyed the weather. With Wyatt only being 8 months old we don't ride on too many rides, but walking the park is a lot of fun too!

We are able to go on the Kissing Tower, which has turned out to be one of Wyatt's favorite rides.

Near the kissing tower there was a Hershey Kiss! Wyatt had to go over and say "hi!"

Wyatt gets a kiss on the Kissing Tower from daddy

Some of the views from the Kissing Tower

Another kiss

Kisses from momma!

We also rode the antique cars.

Daddy drove while Wyatt and momma rode as backseat drivers :)

6 months photos!

2011-05-31T15:46:00.006-05:00

I am almost a month behind! Wyatt had 6 month photos right around Easter. Here are some favorites from his photo shoot by Diana Robinson:

These photos were taken right around 6 months. Wyatt was drooling like crazy and right before he turned 7 months his first tooth began to break through! Ah, the joys of teething!

Hangin' with daddy

Meeting Mr.Giraffe

Gotta love photo shop- I was behind the giraffe holding Wyatt up.

I just love this grin!

Time with momma

The circus came to town....to Hershey Giant Center that is

2011-05-28T15:12:00.000-05:00

Happy that the Circus had an afternoon show- with Wyatt's current nap schedule this worked for us! We enjoyed our little walk over the bridge to the Giant Center. 7 month's old and ready for his first circus!

We went in May, this post was actually typed in Jan 2012!

Love a man that wears a baby! Saves my healing back and he looks so good wearing Wyatt!

crossing the bridge

We decided not to go to the early show outside, it was very warm. A little too warm for Mr. Wyatt.

We bought our tickets and stayed inside the air conditioning until they opened the doors.

Wyatt wore his elephant outfit for the circus. I just love his sun hat- kept him sunburn free the whole summer. (I can say that because I am writing this post in Jan 2012!)

Before the start of the show we got to go on the floor and check out some of the acts close up.

Wyatt meets his first clown- we think he looked like Pop Eye.

Wyatt really liked the clowns. I've never had a fear of clowns; but I know others do. Hopefully Wyatt will not be afraid of clowns. :)

The show had a lot of music and lights!

Wyatt made it through most of the show and then it was nap time in the baby carrier while mom and dad enjoyed the rest of the show and some cotton candy!

A visit from Gp Lynn

2011-05-27T15:33:00.000-05:00

Just before Memorial Day weekend, Matt's dad Lynn was able to stop by on a business trip. We were so glad to spend the afternoon and dinner with Grandpa.

One of our favorite restaurants, Harvest at Hotel Hershey!

After dinner, had to capture a generation photo.

again...another post catch up that was complete in Jan 2012

Sedgwick Co. Zoo

2011-05-15T20:58:00.000-05:00

If there is one place in Wichita I truly miss, it's the zoo. I have so many memories at this zoo from annual school trips (including the one where my mother provided tough love to a student who didn't listen to her as she was on of the first grade chaperones) to being a junior zoo keeper and then graduating to the Zoo Crew to dressing up as a komodo dragon at Zoobilee every year during high school to working in the Farms with the Zoo keepers to working in concessions and getting paid!

I have so many fond memories of growing up at the zoo. I even knew the "real" names of many of the animals. Since I visited the chimpanzees every day on my lunch break during the summer months Marbles, a very old chimpanzee who has since past away, would give me a kiss through the glass.

The Sedgwick Co. Zoo has always been an amazing place of learning. They have so many learning activities and classes throughout the year. I am very sad that I won't be able to take Wyatt to this zoo on a regular basis since we live 1300 miles away, but we will be taking every opportunity to visit when we are in town. We do have a free access to Zoo America at Hershey with our season passes; but nothing compares to the childhood memories at my zoo.

On our trip to Wtown it has been very cold for May! But today the sun came out and we took the opportunity to meet Jojo and AdyJo at The Zoo!

The Jungle Exhibit- a childhood favorite including vampire bats in a cave and piranhas! And sometimes the komodo dragon! A few of my favorites! - no seriously! I love going in the cave and looking at the bats!

I think it was 1995 and the zoo announced they would have penguins by 2012! I thought that was so far away! And then they came 2 yrs early!!! It was so much fun to watch them swim.

Watching the bison and the Mt. Lion

The newest exhibit- the Tiger's new home!!! Their old exhibit was small and you never could see them, that's not the case anymore!

We love the newer lion exhibit too!

The giraffes were out having fun!

There were two baby giraffes too!

One of the best chimpanzee exhibits in my opinion - it has air conditioning!

Hello Orangutan sculptures :) There are many sculptures throughout the zoo! Next year we will most likely get a few photos with Wyatt climbing on them.

Here's to next year!

Happy Easter from Wyatt

2011-04-24T19:41:00.006-05:00

Happy Easter from our home to yours!

Wyatt was wide awake for the whole Easter Service and then was out after church for our Easter family photo.

Wyatt's Easter Basket :)

Wyatt turned 6 months on 4/20 and now weighs 19lbs! In the last month he has learned how to sit tripod and then sit without assistance for a short amount of time, roll from back to front and front to back. Wyatt also is enjoying tummy time now, unlike earlier in his life.

The Portable baby

2011-04-01T15:15:00.012-05:00

I am by no means the expert in baby travel, but by age one Wyatt will have traveled by plane at least 3 times (he's already flown 2 of the 3 already) and has had a 6 hr round trip road trip and an overnight stay in a hotel already.

I have had a few people ask me for advice on my experiences so, I thought I would write it all down.

The no compromise item:

A car seat - either take with you, ship to your destination, or borrow one from a trusted friend/family member.

The first trip we borrowed my niece's infant car seat that was in storage. My sister-in-law dropped it off at my moms a few days before we flew in. My parent's car didn't have the latch system (their SUV was made a year or so before they put latch in every car). Matt, the expert, installed it in minutes.

The second trip we bought a carseat bag - matt carried it on his back. Our Chicco carseat and base fit in the bag without any problem. We gate checked it on our second trip, but I may check it for our third trip. I was told by a friend that had her car seat lost that the airport paid for a new carseat and they were on their way in 2 hrs. I wish I had kept the box to check it in. Another tip- keep your carseat box!

Okay for more items to add to your list :)

For baby- breast milk, formula, or medication there is not a limit on the fluids. When I flew home on our first trip I brought home pumped milk. In Wichita we went through security. I informed them I had breastmilk- I had to show them the bottles and take the lids off. The TSA agent took a cotton pad and held it over the bottles (didn't touch them) and then I put the lids back on. They tested the cotton pads (for explosives I'm guessing) and we were on our way.

TSA has a whole page on getting through security and flying with a baby. Check out the site here. You might want to check it out to know your rights and to know that gel/fluid filled teethers are not allowed on your carryon!

For the carryon I took a back pack and then carried Wyatt in a sling. We have not packed a stroller for any of our flight trips.

The first trip I carried Wyatt in a ring sling. I had a ring sling and a wrap. I love my wrap, but again security makes this difficult. To go through security you must remove the baby from the carrier and put the carrier on the xray machine belt. So after taking the baby out of the wrap, taking the wrap off, putting the wrap through the xray machine, carrying the baby through the the human xray with momma, having someone hold the baby while one puts on the wrap as well as all the other things and bags- a quick on and off sling is the way to go :) I used the balboa ring sling on our first flight.

We bought the Becco Butterfly 2 recently and love it! We use it all the time. It is so comfortable and Matt enjoys carrying Wyatt in it as well. With the Becco Butterfly 2 I can carry Wyatt in the front and carry the back pack without any difficulty.

What I pack for the diaper bag/back pack:

2-3 Burp cloths, 2 bibs, enough diapers to get you through a day or so (for Wyatt on the high side can be 10-14 diapers), his current favorite 2 toys with pacifier clips attached to them so I can attach them to his carrier and not worry about them falling on the ground, a blanket/quilt (if there's a long layover so he can stretch out.

I received a great tip from a fellow mom for our first trip and I have used it ever since.

Take a 1-2 gallon size zip lock bag. Put all your needed items for a diaper change (minus diaper rash cream- you can either add that to the bag after going through security or just go without until you arrive at your destination). I use a quart size zip lock bag and fill it with wipes (also I have one of those portable wipe holders filled and in the bottom of my bag) and put that in the gallon size bag along with 3 diapers, a sleeper, wet ones wipes- the disinfecting wipes to wipe down a changing table or anything else that seems questionable (there's no limit on the amount of disinfecting wipes like there is on liquid hand sanitizer), and sassy or arm and hammer scented baggies. The scented bags are great for disposing of stinky diapers in public places as well as a place to put dirty clothes if they are sacrificed due to a blowout. Just make sure you throw away the diaper and not the clothes! Been there, done that :)

On the subject of blowouts- packing 3-5 sleepers in your carryon as instead of extra onesies, pants, and socks. The all-in-one is the way to go and the best advice I got from a friend of mine who has twin boys. From the car, through security, on the one way flight and landing her boys went through 4 and 5 sleepers each! Wyatt thankfully has not had any blowouts while traveling- but he sure has gotten close! Though he doesn't have any issues having blowouts on other occasions.

I also pack my breast pump motor, breast pads as well as a change of clothes for myself just in case a blowout occurs and I need to change too.

By the way- did you know that the restroom on the plane actually has a changing table? Who knew! When you walk in look above the toilet- it's there! Be aware that once you lie the table down there's not much room to work with- that's why the quick-grab bag is great! Plus, Wyatt was able to stretch out a bit- something we all need unless you have the funds for first class!

What I pack in my checked bag along with my stuff:

A package of wipes

6-8 outfits (as long as laundry facilities are available)

baby monitor

Pump accessories

my storchenwiege wrap

What to ship: Diapers!

One word: AmazonMom!

Look into amazon.com and look into amazon mom- super discounts are to be found!

Ship diapers to your destination or buy them when you get there.

What to borrow:

When we arrived to Wtown we borrowed a pack N play, a playmat and a bouncer. Wyatt's favorite thing before 12 weeks was his bouncer and his playmat.

We haven't flown with it yet, but we will be taking his bjorn travel crib on the plane on our next trip. He loved napping in the bassinet of his pack N play, but the floor of the pack N play is too hard and Wyatt will not sleep, nap or really even tolerate lying in the pack N play now. He does enjoy his travel bed.

If there is one bit of advice I can give it is: don't be afraid to ask for help, go with your gut/mommy instinct, just smile at anyone who gives you any looks (good or bad), and JUST ENJOY THE RIDE :)

Hope this helps for other traveling moms! If anyone has any more ideas, suggestions, or funny stories about travel with babies please comment! The more ideas and experience the better!

In the winter time a coat works as a blanket waiting for a connecting flight!

Wyatt's first flight ever! Just a note- you are not to wear a sling/carrier during take off or landing.

Wyatt's first stay in a hotel- Our first road trip for an over night in D.C. Matt had meetings on "the hill." We had hoped to hang out in D.C. for awhile, but the weather didn't cooperate :(

Wyatt enjoyed his travel bed and the make shift playmat with links! Kept him entertained long enough for me to get ready in the morning!

Happy traveling with the portable baby!

First time at the ocean March 10, 2010

2011-03-23T19:11:00.007-05:00

Rather than try to play catch up over the past two months, I figured I would just start where we are. Wyatt's baby book, unlike this blog is up to date :). Wyatt is 5 months old now and on Tuesday weighed in at 18lbs 1 oz!!! Yikes- my whole body gets a work out just from lifting him!

I went back to work February 2nd, two nights per week, but in a different unit. I transferred to the Medical Intermediate Care Unit - still at Hershey. I have met some great people there and am enjoying the unit.

Matt is finishing up the spring semester at Etown College and making plans for summer school as well as being part of the Capital Area Writing Project along with all his other "professor" stuff. :)

We were able to plan a mini vacation between my work schedule over Matt's spring break.

Wyatt experienced Florida and got to see his Florida family again. He loved every minute of it and loved being held by all of his family!

While we were there Grandpa Lynn took Wyatt to see the ocean for the first time!

Wyatt loved squishing his toes in the sand.

But for most of the time (since he's too young for sunscreen) momma and Wyatt stayed under the umbrella that Grandpa Lynn rented for us.

He made some funny faces while I tried taking our pictures by myself. He looks so serious in this photo, but I think he was making raspberry kisses. He had started that trick a few days before we got to Florida.

Grandpa Lynn came over to get some shade. It was so sunny and beautiful while we were at the beach. Right as we left and ducked in to get some lunch a major rain shower occurred! After lunch, it was sunny again! Could not have asked for a better day at the beach!

After hanging out in the shade Wyatt went to the waves for a few minutes to experience the water.

The first wave caused a delayed reaction of a pout and a cry, but after we told him it was okay and the second wave came he was enjoying himself and the squishy sand!

We bought sunglasses for Wyatt after being at the beach. It was too windy to keep his hat on and the poor guy was squinting with it being so sunny.

We loved our visit to the beach and can't wait to do it again. I am looking forward to making sand castles with Wyatt next time!

Time flies, and with a baby it's the speed of light!

2011-01-21T14:46:00.014-06:00

Love at first sight

Though we were in love with a baby, we decided to wait until the birth to find out if we were having a boy or a girl

Good thing we got baby bump photos at 35 wks by Diana

Because at 38 wks and 3 days, around midnight on Tuesday October 19th we went to the hospital and the nurse midwife confirmed my water had broken Monday night. I wasn't having any painful contractions! They finally started around 11PM Tuesday night!

At 38 wks and 4 days on Wednesday October 20, 2010 @ 0324 AM, we welcomed Wyatt Matthew Skillen

Friday, October 22, two days old

First Halloween- 1 1/2 weeks old

2 1/2 weeks old- first photos by Diana

Around 1 month old

First Thanksgiving- around 5 wks old

First Snow- 7 weeks old

Our 9 yr anniversary, December 15, 2010, Wyatt in tow (though the hostess didn't get him in the shot)

Second Christmas in PA, first year for Christmas lights on the house!

Wyatt's first try at acting- he was awesome! 9 weeks old

First airplane ride back home to Kansas to see family!- 9 weeks old

Loved using the ring sling while traveling

Just over 2 months old, 10 weeks old

Almost 3 months old trying so hard to sit up in the bumbo, 11 1/2 weeks old

Loving time in the moby wrap

A real man knows how to wear his baby and keep his son calm and happy!

12 wks old and playing with his Whoozit rattle

January 20, 2011 - 3 months old!

Wow is all I can say. Yesterday was Wyatt's 3 month birthday, which means he is 1/4 of a year old! He has changed so much. I am enjoying watching him change and grow; though I am not trying to push him to the next milestone.

At three months he has almost doubled his birthweight at #14 6.5 oz (birthweight #7 4.4 oz). In the last three months he has learned so much and interacts with us constantly. He loves to smile, coo, laugh, and squeal! He is starting to show interest in his Whoozit rattle.

He loves car rides so much he falls asleep most times. He loves watching the ceiling fan, even if it isn't running. He has loved his bouncer since we got it when he was a month old, but is now enjoying making it bounce. He loves music and enjoys dancing to it even more! He enjoys bath time in the sink, but really likes taking a tub bath. He loves being talked to, so we read books or just talk about the day. I'm sure Wyatt enjoys seeing all his friends at the mom's group as much as mommy loves spending time with the women at the group!

I have tried to cherish every moment and yet the time has gone by so fast I can't believe it.

The Great Wyatt Tour of 2010

2010-12-30T15:32:00.009-06:00

Christmas morning began at 0330 for a 0730 flight out of Harrisburg, PA.

Baby wearing was the best while on the plane and in the airport. Wyatt was so good on the plane, very little fussiness and slept most of the time!

Views of Chicago from the plane.

We landed in Chicago almost 30 minutes ahead of schedule. We enjoyed our 3 hr wait for our flight to Wichita.

We arrived in Wichita on time and let Christmases begin :)

Wyatt got some cowboy gear from Gp Steve

Great Gm Barb

Sunday meant the Skillen Christmas:

Great aunt Lorna

The annual Christmas game with Gp Bob

Technology is great, we said hello to Gp Lynn, cousin Mindy and her son Caleb via Skype.

Wearing the sling gave me an extra hand and saved my back!

3 of the 4 generations of Skillen men present!

Great Gp Bob

Great Gm Jessie

The Davis Christmas was held Monday evening 12/27

Great Gp Dennis

The Greats enjoying their new great grandson

My sweet boy enjoying some quilt time at the Davis Christmas

Gm Deah putting Wyatt to sleep- she always can get him to sleep!

Cousin Avery reading a book with Uncle Matt on the ipad

Wyatt had been taking a bottle just fine until the last week or so. We learned while back home that Wyatt wasn't refusing the bottle because he didn't want to take it- it was that I wasn't getting the milk warm enough for him. My parents water is always very hot. I heated up a bottle- it got warm very quickly and he took it like a champ!

Tuesday 12/28- we enjoyed lunch at Aunt Sarah's new apartment. Lunch was very very yummy! Wyatt thought aunt Sarah's futon was really comfy.

Tuesday 12/28 Great aunt Nancy and Great Gm Jo came down from KC. We were so excited to see them!

Wednesday 12/29 we had dinner with Gm Deah and Curt.

What a whirlwind and we still have a few more days in Wtown. We have been so blessed to see so much family!

Wyatt's First Christmas Eve

2010-12-25T09:59:00.012-06:00

Wyatt celebrated his first Christmas Eve with his first acting role as baby Jesus! He was awesome! Away in the manger, he didn't sleep- but no crying he made :) He actually stared at me or the lights behind me; then he turned his head 180 degrees to look at Matt. He focused on the halos of the angels and his eyes got big and he raised his eyebrows. We were so blessed to be part of the Children's Christmas Eve Service. The kids were so much fun and they were so excited to see baby Jesus!

Some of our church family was kind enough to take some photos f0r us.

Awaiting our cue!

The Entrance!

The kids were so good. They came to see baby Jesus, but didn't try to touch him.

We didn't make it to Gus' Family Restaurant for breakfast this year and they were closed for dinner, so followed the lead of The Christmas Story (we had watched this movie earlier this morning) and had dinner at the local Chinese restaurant.

Playing the part of Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus was such an honor. Now, as a mother I have a small understanding of what Mary might have been thinking as she carried in her womb the savior of the world and then held Him in her arms. The amazement of holding the child that was inside the womb is indescribable. I cannot imagine all the thoughts that were going through the parents of the Christ child, but I am sure the utter joy of being a new parents was one of them.

Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday Jesus!

Christmas Card/Birth annoucement

2010-12-09T14:57:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas!

Photo with Santa at Bass Pro

2010-12-07T08:03:00.004-06:00

Wyatt and momma read the Legend of St. Nick over the weekend.

When we were at the mall for some errands in Harrisburg on Saturday we saw the line for Santa and decided we would wait. We went back to the mall Monday night right after 5 and just before 6PM- guess what?! We were the third family in line!

It has been very cold here, so Wyatt got to try out his bunting coat. Worked like a charm!

Wyatt even opened his eyes for the photo!

Merry Christmas!

Love,

Matt, Rebekah, & Wyatt

Newborn Photos by Diana!

2010-11-22T15:09:00.007-06:00

On November 6, 2010 Wyatt Matthew was 2.5 wks old. Diana came over to the house and took Wyatt's newborn photos. Her website can be found here. We are so blessed that Diana comes over to the house for photos- it makes it so much easier with a little one. My mom and dad were in town at the time; so we got a few photos of Wyatt with them as well.

One of our favorites!

I can't get over his eyes!

He tolerated us trying to get this shot for a few minutes.

Again, one of my favorites- he has my toes. The big space between the big toe and the pointer toe as well a very long toes is a love trait :)

4 wks old!

2010-11-19T12:52:00.005-06:00

November 7th, Wyatt had his first tub bath. It was also the first tub bath we had performed, so it wasn't the most zen like experience for Wyatt- I promise Wyatt's second tub bath was much more calm and relaxing! :)

On November 8th my parents had to go back home and Matt and I had to go back to a household of 3 for a week. We managed but I looked forward to Matt's mom coming up to visit soon!

Wyatt and mommy went to daddy's office a few times during the week during lunch.

I have been pumping once a day or so to have milk for practice feedings. November 12, daddy gave Wyatt his first bottle! Wyatt took it like a champ and didn't have any issues breastfeeding afterwards. He has since taken 2 more bottles, even one from momma! We plan to continue to give Wyatt a bottle every 2-3 days so we hope he will not have issues when momma and daddy have a date night (we have already been told we will have people waiting in the wings for when we are ready to go out) and when momma goes back to work.

November 15 was a very trying day as I was home with Wyatt and Matt was at work for the majority of the day. Wyatt did okay with his first morning feeding; but was fussy all day. He was having such gassy or abdominal pains that his only pain relief was being held; which meant I was unable to put him down to make something to eat. I got a serving of greek yogurt down in less than a 2-3 minutes and munched on dried fruit with a few nuts. Matt came home around 4 PM and saved me by making me some food and took over holding Wyatt. A friend from church was a God send and brought over a wonderful pasta dish!

That night thankfully Wyatt had his normal routine of eating and sleeping! I was counting down until Tuesday afternoon when Gma Deah would arrive!

Tuesday November 16- Gma Deah arrived!!! We have so enjoyed our visit with Gma Deah and will miss her when she has to go back home. Also, Wyatt's belly pains seem to have subsided! Official weigh in today 9lbs 2Oz!!!!

Also, the day Gma Deah arrived so did Wyatt's bouncer- a God send as well!

Wednesday Wyatt also spent some time in his bouncer so I could actually eat lunch and dinner with both hands! I am so glad my lil' man is feeling better :) Happy 4 wks old baby boy!

Daddy time

Gma Deah brought up a few gifts from Aunt G, Uncle Joe, and Avery- Wyatt loves his Flyers' outfit! Thanks Aunt G and Uncle Joe!

I can't believe my little boy is 4 wks old! It's gone by so fast and he is growing and changing everyday. Motherhood is messy, it's tiring with long hours and no financial pay - but there is no experience more rewarding than being a momma to this wonderful boy and watching Matt be a dad!

Awaiting Wyatt's newborn photos :)

2010-11-15T10:44:00.003-06:00

On November 6th, Diana came over and took some photos of Wyatt at our home. Click here for the sneak peek :)

Maternity photos!!!!

2010-11-09T19:41:00.009-06:00

3.5 weeks before Wyatt arrived we got maternity photos on September 25, 2010, the day before I turned 30. Here are a few, actually a lot, of our photos from the day! We were 35 wks gestation at the time these photos were taken.

Diana did an awesome job! Click here for her site!

Kiki and Neo got in a few photo shots

Regan smiled for the camera too :)

And our absolute favorite that we will be getting printed and framed :)

The first 2 wks of life - lots of photos :)

2010-11-06T19:27:00.008-05:00

Wyatt's first visitors at home. Jess and Tim brought us some awesome dinner and in return we let them see Wyatt :) We will miss you guys at church since you have such a crazy schedule :(

Wyatt's umbilical cord was hanging by a thread just after being a week old....

After some cuddling and a feeding it was discovered that at his next diaper change, Wyatt became CORDLESS!!! Yea!!! What a milestone :)

Thursday evening my mom flew in. With Wyatt arriving earlier than scheduled, mom decided she had to change her flight to see him as soon as possible! I was so excited to see her and for her to see Wyatt in person and not just on Skype.

Grandma holding Wyatt the first night she was here.

Mom is able to do some of her work via the internet- she wishes she could do more of it away from the office. We have our fingers crossed that mom will be able to have more freedom in working from home/away from the office.

Trick or Treat in Etown 10/29/2010- Happy Fall!

Our little pumpkin!

With mom here I was able to actually rest during the day. Matt caught a photo of Wyatt and me taking a cat nap Sunday afternoon after church.

Boppy pillow, pillows all around, water bottle, tea, and Grandma Lois' quilt within reach. Wyatt and I were set for the afternoon!

Monday afternoon after going to the doctor's office to check on the plastibell we stopped at daddy's office for lunch and to show off :) Wyatt is growing out of his "up to 7 lbs" outfit! The sleeves are now 3/4 sleeves and the leg length is now a high water length :)

November 2nd! Voting day (and Wyatt's due date per ultrasound) Mommy went in to vote and then Grandma got a photo of Wyatt and mommy outside of the building. Wyatt was dressed in his elephant outfit.....not in donkeys :)

After voting we headed to our breastfeeding group were Wyatt weighed #7 12 oz!!! At 13 days old he has passed his birth weight of #7 4.4 oz!

Grandma and mommy had lunch at the Hershey Pantry (which we found is family friendly- but not baby friendly- bathroom way too small, no changing table and they don't allow strollers- too many tables in a small room) But we enjoyed our time and Wyatt slept in his carseat.

After lunch we went to the Quiltmaker's Cottage, which is baby friendly! No problem with the stroller there and they oohed and awwed over Wyatt which made mommy smile :)

November 3rd Wyatt and mommy didn't get out of our jammies until 4PM or so. We had done enough on Tuesday that we both decided Wednesday was a wash.

November 4th Grandpa Steve arrived and got to see Wyatt in person for the first time!

Wyatt was dressed in camo just for Grandpa Steve today. He did have his hunter orange pants and hat on at the airport, but by this time it was time to just lounge with Grandpa!

Lounging in Grandma Lois' quilt after feeding.

We've had such a great time with Grandma and Grandpa Love- we can't believe they will be going home soon. We have been so blessed and so grateful they have been here. I really think I have been able to heal and get some extra needed sleep/rest because my mom has been here to help!

Thanks mom- I don't think you know how special this time has been for me. Thank you again for your love, support, doing laundry, cleaning the house, fixing meals, and making sure I rested and didn't overdue it :)

One week ago today....

2010-10-27T07:54:00.007-05:00

One week ago today we went from two to three.....

Here are a few photos, well a lot of photos from the week-

Still learning about my little guy in the hospital. I started feeling more normal within 12-24 hrs and got into my own clothes! I never knew how much better one feels out of a hospital gown!

It's our little silk worm :) We love the swaddlepod!

My blood type is O+; Wyatt's is A+. We didn't have an Rh factor issue; but if any of my children have a blood type other than O there will be an ABO incompatibility which breaks down red blood cells and causes jaundice. Thank goodness Wyatt is such a good nurser! He pooped out the bilirubin and we took advantage of the sunlight too.

Bilirubin is okay at 9, the day we go home; but a repeat blood draw on Saturday was in our future. At our Monday doctor's appt we found out his bili on Saturday was 7.5 and in the office it was down to 5.5! Good job Wyatt!

Time to go home in our going home outfit!!!!

Wyatt was honored at our church service with the traditional white carnation. We took him to church in his stroller with the netting on it so everyone could see him; but no touching :)

Special time

Sunday was so beautiful and sunny we took advantage of the sun to decrease Wyatt's bilirubin.

Mom sent me 2 "hooter hiders" she made for me and Wyatt- we tried one out on the porch!

Wyatt and daddy bonding time...it's amazing the power a sleeping baby has!

Wyatt's first official full bath! We have been wiping down Wyatt with body/facial wipes daily, but last night we made time do give him a full body treatment including a scalp massage :)

He loved his hair being washed and brushed!

Though he is content in this photo- a bed bath is not Wyatt's favorite. We are waiting for his cord to fall off so we can see how he likes a real bath.

We have been so blessed. Sleep is minimal; but it is enough for now. Updates to follow as time and sleep allows :)

Welcome Baby Skill-it 10/20/2010 @ 0324!

2010-10-21T22:21:00.012-05:00

So it started on Monday morning when in hindsight I was nesting. I met Matt for lunch and then headed to the Hershey Outlets to return 2 items. I went to Harrisburg and picked up some decorations from Michael's and picked up a few items at Target. Then I headed back to to Etown, stopped at the grocery store to pick up a few items for the week; specifically a recent craving of double stuffed oreos! -The craving started mid way through taking the taper dose of Prednisone.....

Around 1630 on Monday October 18 the journey to finally find out who Baby Skill-it is began. The ctxs were not painful but they were every 5 minutes for 2 hrs. The first hour I walked around the house, cleaned/put away dishes, vacuuming, de-cluttering the front room, and making sure the bags were ready for of course the next weeks ahead. I called my sister Johannah and got the specifics of the day she went into labor. Called Matt and told him not to get excited but he might want to pick up that Gatorade he had talked about having on hand if I went into labor. When he got home we took Regan for a walk for about 45 minutes. We gave the Midwife line a call and was told to consider coming in when the ctxs were 4-5 minutes apart and that I had to breath through the ctxs. They suggested I sit with my feet up and drink some water and see if the ctxs continue.....of course they stopped.....We ate dinner, I took a nap and then watched some TV. At 2115 I got bored and told Matt I was going to go upstairs and take a bath. Not too many details here for a public blog but basically at 2141 I felt what appeared to be my water breaking while in the bath tub and thankfully the water didn't change color so I assumed the fluid was clear......thoughts that went through my head: problem ctxs came back but not any change in their intensity and no feeling of leaking....so did my water really break? I am not going to be one of those women who go to the hospital begging to be admitted because I peed on myself and thought it was my water. So I decide to stay home and see if the ctxs get worse. I told Matt about what happened and he asked me what we needed to do. I told him I wasn't rushing to the hospital. I wanted to labor at home for as long as possible during early labor and I really felt like the ctxs needed to get stronger before we went to the hospital.

After 2 hours of really no change in the intensity of ctxs and feeling like walking around is the only thing that keeps the ctxs going I call the midwife line again. I knew what they were going to say; so we headed to Women's and Babies triage.

I asked Matt to snap a photo just in case this was the last photo of me before Baby Skill-it arrived. But I figured it would just be a photo with a good story of how we went to the hospital at midnight just to come home 3 or 4 hours later......

Of course when I got in the car and we drove to the hospital I felt one ctx!!! ONE! ugh....I told Matt I probably had a forebag and my real bag of water hadn't broken. I told him if they find evidence of rupture we won't be going home; but I am hopeful that they won't. Don't get me wrong I wanted to have Baby Skill-it but this was not going they way that I wanted s/he to come.

Well we arrived at Women's and Babies on Tuesday October 19th at 0045. The speculum/cough test was negative, the nitrazine paper test negative, the microscope test negative (I am getting hopeful that we are going home and I was just a silly pregnant lady getting excited about pee!) She even checked me and I was 2-3 and she said she felt a membrane. That means I get to go home right? The midwife says, but I like your story....let's do the amniosure test...... The amniosure test.....postive. What?!?!?!? Positive???? (Back story a rain shower front came through the area around 2100 and 6 women including me arrived at Women's and Babies to rule out rupture of membranes....gotta love a rainstorm! I've always believed in barometric pressure!

So here is me posing in the fabulous standard hospital gown and gown/robe :) We got into our room around 0430 and got settled. I slept until 0700 and Matt woke up at 0530 ish to go home to settle the cats, make sure everything was okay, and get Regan to the Canine Adventure Center Bark Park for an undetermined amount of time. When Matt got back we started walking trying to get this labor started. We also tried other natural forms of trying to get this labor started.....I also found out that the on call day shift and night shift midwives were two of the midwives I had seen since I had changed to the May Grant office and I loved both of them! Score if this is going to last all day at least I have 2 midwives that I trust and they know me!

1000 comes- 12 hours since my water "broke" and Tiffany, my midwife doesn't check me. She says she will give me until 1600 to try and then we will talk. I know what that means..... So I take a nap around 1100 for about an hour before we go back to walking.

When I needed to be monitored every so often I lied on the bed or sat on the ball....

So 1600 came we talked. I told her I am sure I had a forebag and my water isn't broken. I have walked for hours with no leaking and no pain. She checks me and tries to snag the water....my cervix is so posterior she wasn't able to snag the water and wasn't sure if she could really feel the membranes....ugh that means Pit. I agreed and an IV was started. Pitocin means continuous fetal monitoring...but they have telemetry units so I wasn't stuck to the bed....yeah! I can even get in the shower or the whirlpool! Whirlpool for pain relief....at this time I would enjoy a little pain.....remember no pain, no gain! We walked, sat on the ball, showers, everything. I'm telling you there is a void between me and the ctxs. Baby Skill-it has kicked me while I see I am having a ctx on the monitor....????? I am having ctxs per the monitor every 3-5 minutes on the a pretty low setting....where is the pain for gain????

Angie the night shift midwife comes into see me around 2130. We talk and decide to check me and try another go at seeing if she can break my water. LETS GET READY TO RUMBLE!!!! Water breaks, lots and lots of clear fluid, and oh she strips my membranes/uses my cervix as a punching bag....OUCH!!!!! But the ctxs change, but I get to keep the Pit- thanks Angie :) :(

Of course once the water is gone things get serious. From 2140 My nursing brain knows I am doing something, but my heart is scared I am not progressing. It was fast and furious and there were a few exorcist moments towards the end. Matt has made comments that noises came out of me that he had never heard before and there were times "when it got really dark." I can't stay still. I look at Lori my night shift RN and tell her I'm done being the pt and I want to be the labor and delivery nurse. I cry, I yell at my ctxs, I beg Lori to turn the Pit off, She offers me pain meds. I tell her "But what if I'm only a 3, Nubain only works really good once and what if I need it later?" She calls Angie and tells me she is getting the pain meds so they will be ready when Angie is here as she is checking on another pt (probably one of the other women who came in around the time I did).

Angie comes in probably promptly; but it felt like an eternity. Matt is doing his best to support me and he did an AWESOME job!!!! Thank you my LOVE!!!! Angie tells me she is hesitant to check me with my rupture being over 24 hrs; but she will if I want it before the meds. Then I realize I can't lie on the bed for her to check me. I'm on the ground on hands and knees and am not going to lie on the bed without relief. I am losing energy fast- remember I've had a total of 3 hours of sleep since Monday night, my last meal was around 1630 on Tuesday, and have lost my ability to stay composed during ctxs. Angie encourages me to get into bed with the pain meds and try to rest.

I got Nubain and IV Benadryl- my new favorite cocktail for labor!!! Matt said within seconds I was snoring. In less than 10 minutes Angie checked me and I was complete and Baby Skill-it was at zero station. I was so sleepy I asked if I could labor down for an hour or when I felt less drugged- which ever one came sooner. While resting if I felt the urge to push or grunt I did. I don't remember when I actually started pushing, but it was awesome!- I know weird word for pushing. I didn't push for 10 seconds each time. I pushed for as long or short as I felt like. I didn't count and no one else did either. Baby Skill-it and the way I felt led the way to delivery and it was awesome!

On 10/20/2010 at 0324 in the morning Baby Skill-it was born and named Wyatt Matthew! He weighed 7 lbs 4.4 oz and 19.25 inches long!

The below photo is the only photo of me that was appropriate for a blog- sorry :( That's my arm and shoulder holding Wyatt.

Proud Daddy!

SKILLEN CHEEKS!!!!

We didn't do a paper baby book, we have a paper copy of Wyatt's feet; but the baby RN suggested Matt use his undershirt to mark the day! I am looking forward to doing something special with these shots!

LOVE feet- Flip flop ready and easy to pick things up with instead of bending down to pick things up!

Chilling out at the post-partum side getting a bath.

Matt helping with the bath and washing Wyatt's beautiful head of hair!

Still alert after the bath and looking at this new world!

Thursday Matt got a few photos of me- not my made up self- but at least I'm in regular clothes! My little man is such a blessing- I am still can't believe he's mine at times!

I have to say delivering at Women's and Babies Hospital with the nurses and midwives from May Grant was such a blessing. I know enough about LDRP management as a nurse to be scared of what can happen in hospitals when you want the littlest interventions possible and how one can be treated when one doesn't want an epidural but I also know that sometimes intervention is the only option. I know that not only was my labor nurse, midwife, and Matt in the room with me. I know God was with me and I was in constant prayer to provide my child and myself with safety as my child entered the world. I knew that initially my labor did not get started the way I wanted and that intervention was going to be needed; but I am also so blessed that I had such supportive women and Matt around me to let me have as close to the experience that I wanted. And now I know it was the experience I needed! The first 24 hrs of being in the hospital gave Matt and I time to debrief about what was about to happen and gave us a lesson in patience. And having to wait until Wednesday gave Wyatt a really cool birthdate!!!

So that is the public blog version of Baby Skill-it being Wyatt Matthew! We are so blessed! Thank you all for your prayers, comments on facebook, and your patience to let me get this post up. I will be re-reading this post in the next few days to edit it- sorry if there are any confusing sentences or miss- spellings it's 3:14 in the morning on Friday and time for me to take a nap :)

38 wks and Our Pumpkin Patch!

2010-10-16T11:53:00.004-05:00

38 wks pregnant and waiting!

Welcome to our pumpkin patch! We didn't make it to a real pumpkin patch this year- next year there will be no excuse! But, we did make it to a market and picked up some pumpkins for the house.

We also have our Jack-O-Lantern patch in the front garden. The mums I planted last fall have exploded!

And a few little pumpkins on our porch.

I love the fall and all the foods, drinks, and festivities that begin and continue through the winter! There's just something about the smell in the air, the crispness in the wind, and crunch of the leaves! I think I will love this fall even more than others as we await with excitement and anticipation for the impending arrival of Baby Skill-it this fall!

37 wks

2010-10-09T17:06:00.003-05:00

At midnight Saturday morning baby Skill-it became 37wks gestation. It was a busy night at work and I did my best to snack mid evening. We had so many traumas last night that at one point I was asked to "drop" in a trauma. Trauma bays are over 80 degrees. After putting on lead, a gown, hat, and gloves I am sure my body temp went sky high....oops! Luckily I only had to be in the bay all gowned up for less than 20 minutes or so- but it took me awhile to cool off. After downing some water and placing an ice pack on my neck I told my charge nurse I would be more than happy to watch other's patient loads while they went into the traumas because it really did take me almost 2 hrs to really cool off. I hadn't dropped in a trauma in over a month and in the last weeks I think my metabolism and body temp have risen and I can't tolerate the 80 plus degree room and working in the trauma. I am never cold any more! Work has been really good at trying to keep me out of the traumas; but sometimes things just happen. With these last few weeks left; I am going to have to stay away from the trauma bays.

Around 0530-0600 this morning at work I had some regular contractions about 5 minutes apart lasting 30-60 seconds, but they weren't painful. I was really hoping they might continue, but after 30 minutes of sitting down to chart and downing some more water they subsided- darn Braxton hick's.....here's to hoping!

Each day from now on will be an adventure! Thinking the upcoming work schedule could have the potential for some more contractions.......

36 wks and 5 days!

2010-10-07T19:19:00.004-05:00

Today was our 37 wk OB appt. I continue to be impressed by how well I am being cared for at the May-Grant office. I am able to sit down and am encouraged to ask questions. They make eye contact with me and don't rush me at all. They encourage Matt to ask questions and include him in the conversations. I know this should be the norm; but at different offices it isn't. I have met 3 different mid-wives in the 4 visits. They have all been very encouraging and supportive of our desires to have the least amount of interventions during labor/delivery.

Baby Skill-it's hrt 130-140s and seems to be doing well. Test results came back and there is no need for antibiotics during labor- yeah!

After our appt we went to the Olde Village Grill in East Pete. The food was soooooo good and the coffee (decaf of course) comes from roasted beans from the nearby town of Litiz and hit the spot! All their desserts are home made- the carrot cake was so dense and the icing- fantastic!

Matt dropped me off at Elan Spa for my pamper appt while he observed a student teacher for the afternoon. I can't speak for his afternoon- but mine was one of those days you dream of! The afternoon started with a prenatal massage (hopefully my last one of this pregnancy...hint hint Baby Skill-it!) with Sara. Sara is awesome. I have been to her 3 times now and every time is amazing. I know I fall asleep at times during the massage.

After I came back to reality from the massage I enjoyed a refreshing snack and then it was off to the pedi chair. Erin did a great job on my feet and toes. She gave me a warmed neck wrap and I was out for a bit :) After my little toes were finished Erin started on my nails. Got the nails cut super short for Matt's sake and for the fact that they grow so fast but break so easy!!!

Today was an eventful, relaxing day. Finger's crossed that this little one comes when s/he is ready- but not too late please!

36 wks and a baby shower!

2010-10-06T20:00:00.006-05:00

Last Saturday Baby Skill-it turned 36 wks and I enjoyed the first week of being 30 yrs old. Also, my dear friend Jess hosted a baby shower where most of my church family of women came and celebrated the impending arrival of Baby Skill-it! Jess is a fantastic cook and we all enjoyed a fantastic lunch and wonderful fellowship. I am so blessed to be part of this family of women. Of course since we were all talking and enjoying our time together I didn't get any photos of anyone. Matt snapped a few photos of me and Baby Skill-it after the shower.

Regan decided she wanted to be in the photo shoot too.

Matt got some pre-shower photos before he and Tim headed to the basement with puppy Jack to play some Wii and be on puppy duty.

It was such an amazing day and wonderful time. We are so excited! I can't believe this baby could come any time now! We have our 37 wk OB visit tomorrow!

Post to be up soon...

2010-10-06T14:38:00.001-05:00

Waiting for Matt to send me photos from his camera from last week to post....

Carseat bases are in!

2010-09-20T20:20:00.003-05:00

Considering that I will be 35 wks pregnant this Saturday we thought we should at least try to install the carseat bases in both cars. Will have to make an appt to get them checked; but at least they are out of the boxes and in the cars- that's a start right? The Chicco is said to be one of the easiest carseats to install and we think is was very easy to put them in.

There is a little more room in the Explorer when the carseat is in it's base compared to the focus. But we think they are both install as best as we can right now. Sure the experts can get the bases even more snug- we will have to see.

We are ready to go in the focus too!

The "bubble" has a sun shade as well as a netting that goes all the way around the carseat. A dear friend of mine Susan, who has triplets used netting to allow people to see her babies; but no touching unless she okayed it. Considering Baby Skill-it will arrive just as flu season is in full swing- I will be taking the advice of Susan to try to keep Baby Skill-it healthy this winter. With a lot of good hand washing from us and others who want to hold Baby Skill-it I hope we can get through this winter without any severe illnesses :)

33 wks 5 days

2010-09-16T10:32:00.003-05:00

So for our 34 wk check up everything is looking good. Baby is head down- very grateful! This little one is not staying consistent- the heart beat today was 155 bpm with lots of movement. So the heart rate range has been from 139- 160s......

We love Tiffany at May Grant Associates and are hoping this little one makes it's arrival while she is on call! IF this baby is a Halloween baby- we already know Tiffany won't be on call :(

BP 118/83 much better than 123/83 from 2 wks ago. I was a little nervous with some of the swelling I had over the last 2 wks that my BP was going to be higher. 123 systolic is the highest I had seen with the pregnancy and I like it more in the 110's or lower. So far so good! In 2 wks I have gained 3 lbs!!! This little one is growing and growing and moving and moving! Of course just like usual when the doppler is placed on my belly this little one moves around even more!

Banned from heels....

2010-09-15T18:06:00.004-05:00

This summer I have lived in basically one pair of very nice sandals. Now that the weather has started to cool, I have started to wear more closed toed shoes. Sneakers are difficult to tie and can't be worn to nice events.

Exhibit A:

So if you read my blog last May you would have read about how I had a fall while crossing the street in Maryland. It wasn't a bad fall, but it shook Matt and me up a little. I have worn those heels since May; but have tried to be extra careful. Well, last night at 33 1/2 weeks into my pregnancy I wore these heels and lets just say if I hadn't been holding Matt's hand while walking from the restaurant to the Fulton Opera House we would not have been going to the show- instead we probably would have been at the ER or home with me nursing a sprained ankle or worse. While at the opera house I lost my balance for a second; but never fell. Of course Matt had protested about me wearing the heels last night in the first place, so my 3 episodes did not make him very happy.

Today I got rid of the heels......

and bought some flats!!!!

These brown heels will go into safe keeping until later. I have a metallic dress that I wore for my 10 yr high school reunion and Matt is okay with me keeping these shoes.

So, hopefully someday I will learn how to walk in heels....

Original artwork is now in the nursery!

2010-09-13T07:00:00.003-05:00

Matt painted 2 pieces of art for the nursery. I really love them! Matt told me his inspiration was the shrubs that blossom in the spring and my wedding bouquet! It made me smile when he told me about his inspirations I was so excited to see them!!! Matt worked on them one night while I was at work; so I had to wait a 10 hr shift and then 8 hours of sleep before I got to see them - the anticipation made me even more excited!

Matt never disappoints when he is inspired and is given art supplies! I love his artistic eye. On vacations we "battle" each other to take the most exciting or artistic photos and have a blast doing it!

Spring photo of me (very early pregnant) and Matt's inspiration of our shrubs last spring.

My bouquet

The artwork! I love the colors and it just brightens up this little corner :)

Waiting in anticipation for Baby Skill-it! We only have 7 more weeks until our due date!!!! We continue to ask for prayers of safety and health of all of us as we near delivery!

EMS Recruitment for KANSAS - One of the best states in the USA!

2010-09-10T10:19:00.005-05:00

It's my people from Manhattan, KS!!!! I miss you guys soooooo much!!! Giving some love to Riley County EMS and the other Kansas Counties (including my home town Sedgwick County- Wichita, KS)!!!!

Aug 21: PA Ren Faire!!! (30wks)

2010-09-09T20:20:00.005-05:00

The Pennsylvania Renaissance Fair is a big deal around here. It is a festival that lasts for 13 weekends from mid August to the end of October with a different theme every weekend! It was a little warm the weekend we went; but we enjoyed a cool breeze throughout the day. We had a blast enjoying a handful of different shows and thinking about what next year will be like with Baby Skill-it with us.

We went to a magic show, were I participated. We laughed a lot.

We also watched some crazy jugglers!

We ended the afternoon with some amazing music and even a belly dancer performed. I so miss dancing and can't wait to get started again. With my new position I hope to get in some lessons to get back into it!

We ended the day with some lemonade and a fresh doughy funnel cake that was sooooooo good!

The mansion on the property has a winery and a brewery! Of course I did not partake and Matt did not find it appropriate to sample the tastings in front of a pregnant woman (such a chivalrous man). We hope to visit the mansion this Christmas season when they decorate it for the holidays! They also have dinner theaters and other events throughout the year that we are hoping to enjoy over the years.

Matt got a few photos of me at 30wks during this outing.

October 3rd: 31 wks and 6 days

2010-09-09T10:29:00.004-05:00

Earlier in the month we chose to change the location of delivering Baby Skill-it to Lancaster Women's and Babies hospital. So, last week we changed OB offices to May Grant Associates with a Certified Nurse Midwife and we were very pleased with the experience. Before the visit Matt, my wonderful hubby/photographer got a few shots of Baby Skill-it growing!

Secret Weapons in your diaper bag?

2010-08-10T16:30:00.004-05:00

I have always seemed to carry way to much in my purse and now with the future use of a diaper bag I really want to have what I need but not have everything but the kitchen sink! I know I need 6-8 diapers, wipes, diaper rash ointment, changing pad, hand sanitizer, at least 1 change of clothes, a blanket, toys, my wallet, Tylenol (for me), cell phone, and a blanket. My sister has also given me these baggies that smell like baby powder so I can discard stinky diapers in trash cans without feeling guilty for leaving a little deposit. At some point we will add bottles.

So to all the other moms or dads out there, what are you secret weapons you keep in the diaper bag?

This is my diaper bag! I love it and Matt likes it too- a huge plus! It also has clips to hang on the stroller.!

Baby Skill-it: Boy or Girl?

2010-08-09T19:23:00.005-05:00

We went to Carters at the Outlets in Lancaster and found one boy and one girl outfit that are super cute. I really looked for a pink outfit for the girl outfit; but I couldn't find one that I liked! How crazy is that?!?! These two are both going to be great for October/November weather. We found a white headband with a blue flower for the girl outfit. Of course receipts are saved and verified the return policy with Carters because we are very sure we are only having one Baby Skill-it this time around :)

So what do you think is Baby Skill-it going to be a boy or girl? Any guesses?

28 wks

2010-08-06T13:12:00.003-05:00

We had our 28 wk appt at the OB office yesterday. Baby Skill-it's heart rate was 140 bpm and that was about 15-20 minutes after drinking the glucola for gestational diabetes screening. Baby Skill-it is measuring 29 wks! Fingers crossed for 10/23/2010; but of course we are not holding our breath.

Walked by Baby Skill-it's room and noticed we have two more keepers of the nursery along with the giraffe! :)

We've been in PA for 1 year!!!

2010-08-05T06:30:00.000-05:00

On July 31, 2009 we took possession of our home in Elizabethtown, PA. Our moving truck arrived 5-7 days later.

We are so amazed at all that has happened and all the blessings we have received. Everyday has not been easy, but God has provided.

It was so amazing to celebrate our 1 year anniversary with my parents! We had a wonderful time and look forward to them coming back in November when we hope Baby Skill-it is here!

Our trip to Gettysburg!

2010-08-04T06:30:00.000-05:00

We started our morning at Gus's Keystone family restaurant. We had a wonderful breakfast!

We drove to Gettysburg without any major issues and arrived on time for our private tour. Joanne was fantastic!

The peace memorial-

Dad was very interested in the cannons.

The view of Little roundtop

27 weeks and still traveling-though I enjoy naps! Mom got to feel Baby Skill-it move and kick many times throughout their visit to PA.

Pennsylvania Monument

2 of my great, great, great (I think that's enough greats) uncles fought at the battle of Gettysburg and survived the battle in the wheat field! We found their names. Matt has 3 letters from these men.

It was a hot day, but we drove around the whole park in our air conditioned vehicle with our own personal guide. We had an amazing time and learned so much!

You know your hubby really loves you when.....

2010-08-03T10:08:00.003-05:00

He buys and ships regular, caffeine free Dr. Pepper!

I have really missed Dr. Pepper, but really didn't want to add the caffeine if I could avoid it. I have avoided diet soda, but I have had a few regular sodas throughout this pregnancy. I did not have any caffeine during the first trimester and have had limited caffeine during the 2nd trimester. I have really missed Dr. Pepper, but don't want the caffeine. I just happened to mention it to Matt on my way to work one day last week.

He informed me that there is no regular, caffeine free Dr. Pepper anywhere near us! Back in Kansas it is easy to find regular caffeine free soda anywhere, but here in PA it is not the case! Matt googled it and found a factory in Dublin, TX that will ship it! I was shocked when he told me he had ordered them. I now have 24 cans to make it until delivery of this little one!

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle....

2010-07-28T14:38:00.006-05:00

Gaylene Smith from Stoneware Studio in Wichita, KS gave us a mobile she painted. Unfortunately Stoneware Studio will be closing the end of this month. But we celebrate the amazing things she did while creating a sanctuary for many for the last 4 years! I love it and think of her every time I look at it.

We didn't want to put the mobile into the ceiling, so I was looking for somehow to hang it. I found a black hook in the garage and thought it would be perfect for the nursery.

After a little spray painting project, it is perfect!

I love when I can find something and repurpose it for something else!

The mobile would not hang right, so I made my own version of the mobile with 3 of the 4 fish.

Final product:

It hangs near the changing table, but not over it. It brings a little whimsy/ garden feel to the wall. We really like it!