Froggy

One day Rhonen woke up from his nap and pointed to his stuffed animals that were lined up in his room. He clearly was asking for one specific animal...this frog. Since that day, "froggy" has been a staple in his day. He needs froggy to take a nap and go to sleep at night. He also likes to carry him around the house.

This frog also has a little history within our family. When we were living with Dustin's sister and her family in Scott's Valley we found out we were expecting. A few months later, we decided to move back to Chico. Dustin had to go to Chico for a month before I could join him. Imagine, first pregnancy, tons of hormones, without my love! The end result was me...an emotional, pregnant mess! Dustin came to visit me for the weekend and after he left I was so sad. I felt alone and hated being away from him! Later that day, our sweet niece Ekite brought me this frog to help me feel better. I ended up sleeping with this frog every night I was away from Dustin and it did make me feel better.

So I wonder... did Rhonen bond with the frog while he was in the womb? It sounds crazy I know, but it amazes me that out of 15 different stuffed animals he chose this frog. The sweet love from our niece has become this sweet love from my son. Whatever the rhyme or reason, I'm glad Rhonen has a friend to cuddle with :)

37 weeks

So here I am...officially full term! The baby is fully developed and could arrive any day! I think I might have another week or two but you never know, he could decided to come tonight. The anticipation is killing me...along with the sleepless nights, heartburn and general discomfort. Despite all of these ailments...I am enjoying these last days of pregnancy. The nesting instinct is in full gear and I am trying to prepare as much as possible. We have a lot of things going on right now and I think that's helping me keep my mind occupied. I am still working, but that can stop any time I need to. I think Rhonen can sense the baby will be here soon. He is always trying to lift my shirt up to touch my belly. He lays his head down and gives the baby kisses...so sweet! This will likely be my last photo as a pregnant woman, I don't feel like posing for the camera much. So the next time you see me I will have my babe in my arms.

Ready for an Adventure

We bought this bike trailer yesterday and Rhonen can't wait to use it! We're just waiting on his helmet to arrive, it should be here on Wednesday. You can bet I'll be ready with the camera for Rhonen's first bike ride :)

Surprise Baby Shower

My coworkers threw me a surprise baby shower last week...this diaper cake was one of my gifts. Of course it didn't take long for Rhonen to destroy it, I think it lasted all of 12 hours in our house. At least I got a picture first :) I had been telling everyone that I didn't NEED a baby shower, we have everything (with the exception of a double stroller) we need for this second baby. But I forgot about the excitement and celebration a baby shower can bring! It's about more than clothes, diapers and toys. It's about enjoying these last days of pregnancy (as much as humanly possible) and reveling in the idea of bringing home a new little life. All of the gifts were great but I am mostly thankful for the time to reflect and celebrate the arrival of our second son.

15 Months

Rhonen is now 15 months old! He seems like such a little boy...no more baby Rhonen. He's very active...we're always on the go. He loves being outside and going to the gym. We go to the gym about 4 to 5 times a week, which is great for Dustin and I. He goes to the childcare for about an hour while we work out. Each day I ask him if he "wants to go see the kids?" To which he replies "yeah" with a smile. I think it's good socialization for him, plus he gets to see lots of babies. I can't wait to see him and his little brother together! We will have to be very watchful but I know Rhonen will love our new little baby so much.

He is also very interested in helping us clean. Whenever we are sweeping, watering the plants or cleaning he tries to mimic what we're doing. If only he were more effective :) His verbal skills are coming along, although most of the time I'm not too sure what he's trying to say. But he is trying very hard to communicate with us. He is now officially a "climber" which is very scary! Slowly he's getting the concept that he shouldn't be on top of the kitchen table or couch, but it's just so tempting for him. I'm also happy to report that he's given up the bottle except for the occasional babysitter bottle.

Next month will bring a lot of change for our little boy. I can only hope that it will be minimally disruptive to Rhonen. I know over time Rhonen will adjust to having a brother and I think our two boys will be very close.

The Zoo

My dad and I took Rhonen to the Sacramento Zoo for the first time last weekend. He seemed somewhat interested in the animals, but what he really liked was the carousel! He's a thrill seeker for sure! We met up with my Grandma and Grandpa which was great. It's so exciting to be able to take him on outings that he can really enjoy.

Airplane

I brought a new toy home last week for Rhonen...this awesome airplane! I love wooden toys, they are durable, unique, and build imagination. He has so much fun riding this airplane and I know both boys will be able to enjoy it for a long time.