The Palmer Family Blog

Winter 2011

2011-12-18T20:59:00.000-08:00

I know it's been a long long time since we've updated the blog. Jacob is getting so active that when he is finally sleeping, we don't want to do anything Jacob related :-) Our lives completely revolve around him and it's just a joy if we ever get free time. Here are some pics from some recent outings. I am going to make this quick so no captions.

Youtube video's

2011-07-17T12:16:00.000-07:00

I uploaded all the home movies to youtube. Some are new and some are old but you can get there by going to this website.

http://www.youtube.com/user/wastintimejp?feature=mhee#p/u

You'll see all the movies on the right side of the screen.

Father's Day and Other Fun Days

2011-07-15T10:26:00.001-07:00

More Photos of Visit to MI!

2011-06-14T14:29:00.000-07:00

Our trip to MI, June 2011

2011-06-13T09:02:00.000-07:00

Riding on the airplane

Playing with Pappa's remote.

Aww!

After a nice walk!

Blowing bubbles is fun!

Yummy ice cream!

Family Fun in April and May

2011-05-24T23:41:00.000-07:00

Jacob loves his rocking horse!

Giddy up!

Waiting patiently at the airport.

Smiley boy!

Happy Easter

After a nice relaxing bath

We had so much fun at a work picnic!

Jacob and Daddy on a fun slide!

Feeding the ducks

Jacob loved riding the choo-choo train at the work picnic.

We rode the train four times!

After a fun day at the pool!

Funny face!

Eating messy spaghetti!

Yum!

Football

Playing in the kiddie pool at home!

Jacob still loves to grab the camera.

At the Phoenix zoo!

He got a little scared at this point.

Family fun time!

March and April Fun!

2011-04-22T22:21:00.000-07:00

We had a nice St. Patty's Day at home!

Trying to grab the camera as usual.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Jacob is getting good at brushing his teeth!

Family Fun in Bartlett Lake!

Kicking and splashing in the lake.

Playing with dirt is so much fun!

Jacob passed out very quickly on the way home.

Jacob was a very happy and dirty boy after his weekend camping!

More dirty smiles!

Fun Day at Home

2011-03-20T18:36:00.000-07:00

Renaissance Festival

2011-03-19T08:02:00.000-07:00

We had such a great time at the Renaissance Festival! There were so many cool things to see and Jacob loved the petting zoo there!

Sick Day for Jacob

2011-03-18T16:54:00.000-07:00

Jacob was not feeling well on this day but we made the best of it as a family.

When Jacob doesn't feel well, he likes to cuddle!

Very cute

We had so much fun!

Just Hanging Out Around the House

2011-02-03T13:07:00.000-08:00

Jacob still loves cameras and tries to grab them all the time!

He is getting so much better with his sippy cups! Hopefully we can get rid of the bottles soon!

Yummy water!

I promise no baby was REALLY hurt in this photo! Great shot though...

Jacob figured out how to pull his pants down!

Just hanging out!

Playing with Elmo while watching Elmo!

Jacob's latest thing is sleeping with his football. He cries when you try to take it away. He is still well on his way to becoming a future quarterback!

Christmas Time with Family 2010

2011-01-08T10:27:00.000-08:00

We had such a wonderful time visiting with family in Michigan for Christmas! 2010 was a very busy and exciting year for all of us! We appreciate all of you and miss you all very much. The distance from where we all live only matters to the mind, we live close to you in our hearts! 2011 is another fresh new year for all of us to live, laugh, and love! We hope to see all of you again as soon as possible.

Breakfast before church with Izrael!

Pappa and Jacob loved to talk and laugh with each other!

Ariel is so great with Jacob! We wish we could have her around all the time to help out!

Joey and Jacob share a love for binky's!

Jeff and Ryan

We had a great time seeing the Kulik's! We are grateful to have them in our lives!

Steve and Jacob had the opportunity to spend some quality time together!

Debbie and Amber loved playing with Jacob!

Jacob loved Nonna's fudge! That was probably the sweetest thing he has eaten!

Jacob wanted to help his cousins open their Christmas presents! He enjoyed playing with the wrapping paper and boxes too!

Merry Christmas!

We all had a great time at Santa's Workshop!

Ariel and Joey with Santa

Santa was so great with Jacob. He whispered sweet nothings in Jacob's ears!

Joey showing us his mad face while eating so delicious chocolate ice cream!

We had a great fun at Frankenmuth!

Jacob loves being held by Nonna! More hugs and kisses please!

Bisnonna and Jacob

We had a fun at Grandma's house!

More quality time with cousins!

Joey loved pretending to pour us coffee!

Ryan is such a perfect little boy! He is so precious!

April feeding Ryan, so cute!

We had fun with Dylan and Jamie! We wish we could see them more often!

Glad we could get a good picture of the three of us! That doesn't happen often enough.

Aunt Jamie is so much fun!

Peek-a-boo Dylan and Jacob!

Weeeeeeeeeeeeee!

My bippy!

Would have bee a great photo is Josh wasn't playing around! I still love it though...

I have to kiss Jacob as much as possible because one day he probably won't let me!

Yay dinner time!

Sawyer was so good with Jacob too! We love him so much!

Jacob wants to show Nonna the menu!

Peek-a-boo I see you Pappa!

Aww, such a sweet moment!

Jacob loved being held by his bisnonna!

Great-Grandma and Jacob

More hugs and kisses from Nonna!

Jacob misses Michigan! He had so much fun seeing all of his family there!

READ BEFORE WATCHING VIDEOS

2010-12-19T18:59:00.000-08:00

This is important. For some odd reason youtube sets my videos to the lowest possible quality. Please click where it says 240p or 360p and set it to the HIGHEST NUMBER POSSIBLE. The videos will look terrible unless you click this option. Look for the red circle in the image below. That's where you want to click.

Jacob playing with Tupperware

2010-12-19T18:37:00.001-08:00

Jacob throwing food on the floor.

2010-12-19T18:37:00.000-08:00

Jacob in his high chair

2010-12-19T18:36:00.003-08:00

Jacob birthday cake eating practice

2010-12-19T18:36:00.002-08:00

Jacob and the balloon

2010-12-19T18:36:00.001-08:00

Van singing to Jacob

2010-12-19T18:36:00.000-08:00

Halloween, The State Fair, and Other Fun!

2010-12-03T08:53:00.000-08:00

Jacob still loves to crawl even though he knows how to walk!

He can't wait to go back to Michigan soon to see all of his family!

Jacob loves playing with the candy but didn't have the chance to eat any for Halloween!

We had so much fun at the state fair. We ate so many goodies. At first Jacob loved riding the carousel!

But after about a minute, not so much.

He did enjoy the petting zoo at the fair.

There were so many cool animals to pet.

He started to get a little tired towards the end of the evening.

So we decided to ride the ferris wheel right at dusk to end our afternoon at the fair.

Jacob and Daddy enjoyed the ferris wheel. So did Mommy.

Jacob loves to open the tubberware drawer, sit inside, and throw everything on the floor.

All smiles here!

What a cutie!

Jacob's first haircut was so much fun! He was so good and loved the bubbles!

He sat so still, we were pleasantly surprised!

He looks like a big boy now!

Jacob loved Thanksgiving left overs! Too bad on Thanksgiving he fell asleep before dinner was ready!

Nonna and Pappa's Visit for Jacob's 1st Birthday!

2010-11-16T19:39:00.000-08:00

We were so excited to have Nonna and Pappa's visit us! We all had a wonderful time! They arrived on Jacob's birthday and he was so happy to see them! Jacob didn't quite understand how to open presents yet. He needed a little help.

He sure loved all the attention.

Jacob having some birthday cake! He did better with this cake than the cake at his big birthday party.

The party began before anyone arrived.

Jacob needed lots of things to keep him calm. He really enjoyed the balloon's and enjoyed chewing on his hat!

Nonna loved giving Jacob big hugs and kisses!

Jacob looooves Elmo.

So the cake thing didn't go exactly as planned but he got dirty.

I did my best to make him not cry.

This sums up the whole cake eating contest.

Jacob loved riding in his wagon and clapping for Nonna and Pappa!

Nonna enjoyed feeding Jacob and Mommy appreciated all the help!

We had a wonderful visit with Toni and Glen.

Our Trip to the Fair!

2010-09-10T13:54:00.000-07:00

Recently we took a trip to Flagstaff to see friends and go to the Fair. Jacob had so much fun at the fair. He didn't have so much fun sleeping under the stars. The entire camp ground was woken up at 4am by Jacob screaming at the top of his lungs. Unfortunately we didn't have a warm bottle to calm him down. I'll never forget holding him for 20 minutes while I am half asleep so he wouldn't scream. I was pretty close to driving to a gas station to purchase hot water.

Here are some pics with all the animals. Don't forget you can click the photo to make it bigger.

I was more scared the chickens were going to bite me more than Jacob.

We loved the pigs. They were so friendly.

At some points, Jacob was more interested in the cages than the animals.

More piggies!!!!

Oink Oink

Jacob standing up and watching the chickens on his own.

And this is what the little man looked like at the end of the night. His bedtime is usually 6:00pm. After a few mouthfuls of cotton candy, he stayed up till 10pm!

Hanging out and trip to Makuto's Island!

2010-09-07T07:29:00.000-07:00

Jacob loves to eat eggs for breakfast.

What a funny face!

Big smiles as usual.

Jacob wearing Daddy's Grateful Dead shirt. It might be a little big on him...

Jacob loved playing on the mats at Makuto's Island! He also loved the aquarium and watching all the bigger children play on all the slides!

More mat time!

He loves all the games and lights!


Jacob rides the motorcycle and Daddy watches in awe!

9 months old!

2010-08-13T15:53:00.000-07:00

Jacob loves to stick his legs out of the crib when he sleeps! Too cute but it makes me always want to check frequently on him!

Jacob loves hanging out at home and playing with his toys!

His is ready to start feeding himself!

All smiles as usual!

He got this cool alphabet train for his 9 month birthday! This toy is so cool and he loves it!

Still best friends! Maggie is wonderful with Jacob!

This tastes great but I think I might be tired...

Jacob loves to ride Maggie like a horse but she is not that crazy about it...

Hanging out!

2010-07-11T07:14:00.000-07:00

Jacob loves his dog Maggie and she loves him too!

We are still working on figuring out whose toys are whose...

Time for hugs!

Jacob still loves remote controls!

Jacob and Daddy hanging out! They are enjoying watching youtube videos together!

Jacob had such a great time camping!

Yummy teething rings! I need these for all the teeth I am getting.

Now I know how to wave hello and goodbye!

Toothy grin!

Jacob enjoys playing with Daddy and our camera case!

Quality time with Mommy!

Jacob is now 8 months

2010-06-20T16:06:00.000-07:00

Jacob a little tired in his car seat.

He likes to pull all of his toys out of his toy box at the same time.

He is still all smiles!

Now he will actually hold the bottle on his own. He never liked to do it because he always had one of us to do it for him.

Our little Alfalfa!

Mommy still loves to give her little man big kisses!

Ariel is such a great helper! She is all ready to babysit!

Jacob's Great-Grandma loves Jacob soooo much! She couldn't believe how big he is already!

Teething rings are our life savers every now and then...

Just a quick little update....

2010-05-11T12:31:00.000-07:00

Jacob is growing up so fast! Today I just realized that he can sit up on his own and is close to pulling himself up. He can easily lean standing up in his crib if assisted. I thought I would post this youtube video of him playing the piano. Enjoy!

This is what happens when you let him try to feed himself.

Look at that mess!

Not sure what he's doing here but he is his usual happy self.

New Photo Time

2010-04-30T13:15:00.000-07:00

At the moment, Jacob is getting bigger and smarter. Not only can he crawl, he's getting into things that he shouldn't be getting into. You know, like electrical cords and our coffee table. Just when you think you have the place baby proofed, it needs more and more and more.

Jacob and Orion are so interested in each other.
If they could, they would watch each other all day.

He also loves posing for the camera.

Venus is so good with the babies.

Jacob in his Johnny Jumper. He's not the biggest fan of it.

He's getting really good at sitting up.

Jacob loves Two Bit. I can't believe that Two Bit
puts up with his tricks.

Jacob's favorite cord.

2010-04-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

Jacob really is a happy boy who enjoys
laughing all the time!

We really were blessed to have such a wonderful baby boy.

Jacob loved visiting and playing with one of his many cousins Dylan!

He still has the biggest and bluest eyes ever! We hope they don't change...

Two bit and Jake stretching. It's such a hard life for the two of them...

Time for hugs whether you want them or not!

Jacob Happy and Playful

2010-03-08T15:06:00.000-08:00

Big smiles from our big boy Jacob!

He is still a little to small for his Johnny Jumper but one day it will be perfect...

Jacob still loves his activity center and all the toys on it!

Here is a photo of Jacob hanging out with his buddy Orion. They were born 3 weeks apart.

Nonna's 60th Birthday Surprise!

2010-03-03T12:27:00.000-08:00

Surprise Nonna and Poppa! We decided to just show up for Nonna's 60th Birthday Party!

Nonna was a little shaken up and excited!

Jacob loved meeting his Great-Grandmother!

Nonna and Jacob enjoyed talking with each other! Nonna also told Jacob many jokes and he laughed and laughed!

Great family photo!

Poppa enjoyed playing with Jacob!

Jacob does look like Poppa! They have the same eyes!

Nonna didn't even want to put Jacob down when he was sleeping. She loves holding him!

Jacob looked so adorable all bundled up for the colder weather in Michigan!

Jacob loved meeting his cousin's Ariel and Joe! He loves them so much and hears Mommy and Daddy talk about them all the time!

Ariel is almost close to being a professional babysitter! She was so wonderful with Jacob and loved feeding him a bottle.

Jacob was so curious at the restaurant that we went to. At least with got a photo with Great-Grandma Rose!

Jacob loves his Nonna and Poppa very much! He can't wait to go back to Michigan soon for a visit. He also wants Nonna and Poppa to come visit him too!

It's been a while.

2010-02-08T12:52:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's been so long since we have posted. We've been pretty busy trying to raise Jacob. He has been the best baby ever. He rarely cries. If he does cry, it's because he is really tired. So crying usually ends with a long long nap. He is content wherever he goes. Who ever is holding him usually get's a smile and a laugh. Recently, he is remembering songs we sing to him or words we say. Here are some recent photos and youtube videos.

We call this "Dead Baby" when he is really tired and we are trying to burp him before we put him down, he just goes life-less. It looks like a dead baby in your hands.

Jacob in his play chair. He's got a few favorite toys that he plays with multiple times a day.

Jacob attempting to eat his seat belt. He loves that car seat.

Jacob eating his butterfly.

and his hand. He can get four fingers in there.

He is also learning to turn onto his stomach. He has that part down but getting back onto his back is a little more of a challenge. Notice all the drool on the bib.

A closeup of the drool.

This is becoming something I like. When he is really tired, he'll just pass out. It doesn't matter where he is, he'll just pass out. Here is a great example. The way he is laying doesn't look to comfortable to me.

3 months old already!

2010-01-28T08:42:00.000-08:00

Jacob still loves his zebra!

Our handsome little man!

Playing intently on his activity mat

Christmas and Visit with Dylan and Jaime

2010-01-05T09:49:00.000-08:00

We had such a relaxing Christmas Eve and day at home. We relaxed and had a great time! Next year we will go to Michigan to visit the rest of our family and enjoy the snow!

Daddy said that Jacob looks like an elf in this outfit but Mommy just thinks he looks adorable!

Jacob wishes peace on earth for everyone!

Jacob got a Johnny Jumper from Santa. It's still a little big for him but in another month or so, he is going to have fun with it.

Daddy enjoys quality play time with his son!

We opened presents all together and Jacob enjoyed looking at all the cool stuff that his grandparents got him. He is a spoiled little boy for now!

Jacob enjoyed playing with Grandma and his new toy! He stared at it for a very long time!

Jacob loved meeting his cousin Dylan! He can't wait to go to Michigan to visit her sometime soon!

Jacob at 2 months!

2010-01-04T23:41:00.000-08:00

Jacob can hold onto objects at two months old. He is very advanced for his age!

He looks so comfortable!

At first, Jacob hated wearing bibs but now he likes to cuddle with them.

He is such a happy boy!

Daddy takes such good care of his baby boy!

Visit with the Kulik Family

2010-01-04T23:35:00.000-08:00

Grandpa Steve loved holding Jacob during his visit, almost never put him down... It was great to visit with Steve, Debbie, and LaFern. We wish the visit could have been a little longer but we are all grateful for the time that we did have!

Four Generations together!!! Amazing!

Happy Holidays

2009-12-15T17:48:00.000-08:00

These are photos from the first night of Hanukkah!

Merry Christmas too! Thank you Grandma for the adorable Christmas clothes!

He's getting big!

2009-12-10T18:22:00.000-08:00

Looking over photos from not even 2 months ago, I can't believe Jacob has doubled in size. Here are some more recent ones.

The Lions game and more

2009-11-20T05:28:00.000-08:00

Josh is explaining all the plays to Jacob. Very cute!

Josh was surprised that the Lions were losing!

Jacob hiding in his car seat

Jacob sleeping and one of the cats were curious...

Our friend's daughter Erin giving Josh a bottle. We are training her now to be a babysitter for Jacob in a few years!

Little Angel

Over the weekend!

2009-11-16T10:44:00.000-08:00

Jacob loves to sleep in his car seat

Jacob smiling and still looks just like his daddy!

Play time!

Jacob posing with his lion and Detroit tiger!!!

We all had a very nice and relaxing weekend at home. We miss you so much and think of all of our family and friends all the time! Hugs and kisses!

More fun with The Palmer Family

2009-11-11T08:12:00.000-08:00

Jacob loves his swing and stuffed animals!

One eyed Jake

Jacob loves tie dye just like Mommy and Daddy!

More tummy time! His neck is getting so strong!

Jacob playing with Two-bit and his stuffed lion!

We make a good looking family, don't we?

Josh loves to burp Jacob now!

Jacob's cheeks are getting so pudgy! Very cute!

Never wake a sleeping baby! At least that is what everyone tells us!

Fun Around the House

2009-11-07T06:10:00.000-08:00

Just being silly with our good friend Van!

Jake is always hungry. He is a growing boy!

Van loved giving Jacob a bottle too!

Too cute!

Jacob trying to show the ASU Sun Devils sign!

Jacob's Activity Mat is Great!

2009-11-03T01:43:00.000-08:00

Jacob's first time on the bright and new activity mat! He really loved it. Mommy and Daddy enjoyed playing with him too!

Stretch those arms and legs buddy!

An aerial view!

A little tummy time was just what Jacob needed! His neck is already getting so strong!

Jacob's First Lions Game- They Lost!

2009-11-03T01:37:00.000-08:00

Jacob couldn't stay awake through the whole game!

We bought some new Detroit Lions gear for him the last time that we were in Michigan! We were so excited since he wasn't born yet at that time!

Darion loved baby Jacob! He was very gentle...

Darion trying to give Jacob sweet kisses!

After we arrived back home, the Palmer family needed a little rest and relaxation!

Nonna and Jacob

2009-11-02T20:56:00.000-08:00

Nonna loved holding Jacob while she was in town visiting. She never wanted to let him go...

Video of Nonna talking to Jacob

2009-11-02T20:40:00.000-08:00

All those who love Mommy raise their hand!

2009-11-01T00:20:00.000-07:00

Poppa Fidler is so proud of baby Jacob. He sends us photos from his camera. Jacob misses Nonna and Poppa Fidler so much! He can't wait until they can hold him in their arms again.

Jacob's First Halloween

2009-10-31T21:56:00.000-07:00

Our first family Halloween!

Our little pea in the pod

Daddy giving Jacob a bottle before trick or treating.

Mommy thinks her pea in the pod is perfect.

Mom was excited to take Jacob for a short walk in the stroller.

Our good friend Chris made sure that Jacob was strapped in tight.

Venus had fun for Halloween too!

Thank you Alyssa and Chris for letting us have the costume to use. We didn't expect to take Jacob out for Halloween but we are happy that we did.

There sure was some cute neighborhood decorations to look at...

Relaxing around the house

2009-10-31T05:47:00.000-07:00

Jacob getting a little well deserved rest and relaxation.

He sure does love his Grandma's!

Jacob sure does love to eat! What a big boy!

The Waiting Game!

2009-10-30T08:01:00.000-07:00

Waiting at home during early labor. We went into triage on Friday October 16, 2009. It was too early, real labor was on Saturday...

Chris and Alyssa's Surprise

2009-10-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

Alyssa (and Chris) organized a co-ed baby shower for us! They did such a great job. After I came home, a woman came over to give me a henna tattoo on my belly! At first I felt funny having my stomach exposed. Beautiful tattoo! I was so surprised! For those who don't know, it washed off in about a week!

More naptime

2009-10-30T07:54:00.000-07:00

He still doesn't quite fit in the bouncer. I am sure in a week or two he will fit better and love it!

Video with Venus!

2009-10-30T07:51:00.000-07:00

I don't know which child is more adorable! I am going to have to say mine, Venus takes a close 2nd.

Dog Gone Cute!

2009-10-30T07:48:00.000-07:00

How could you not want to pinch his little cheeks?!?! He is gaining weight and his neck continues to get stonger every day. We love the smell of baby lotion too!

Jake is awake

2009-10-30T05:14:00.000-07:00

He loves to look at all his cool toys!

Jacob Sleeping

2009-10-30T05:10:00.000-07:00

Too adorable for words!

Finally Feeling Better!

2009-10-30T04:12:00.000-07:00

I think my hormones are finally starting to get under control... Wow, I think I just needed a little time to adjust and so did Josh. We needed to get used to sleepless nights, diaper changes, and breastfeeding. Our little Jacob loves to eat and it's a little hard to keep up. Josh and I have never been happier and we continue to be in awe of Jacob!

Jen's Adventure Through Labor

2009-10-29T17:49:00.000-07:00

It has been an interesting week to say the least... For weeks before Jacob was born, I started having Braxton Hicks contractions and for me they really did hurt. I don't think they usually do for most people but there are always exceptions to the norm. On Thursday night, October 15, I worked and Josh called and texted many times to see if everything I was alright. I told him I thought I would be okay even though I was having mild, irregularly timed contractions that were really starting to hurt more. I worked Thursday night into Friday morning at 2a.m. when I called Josh to come and pick me up from work. The poor man had just fallen asleep before I called because he was so nervous I was going to go into labor. He chugged a Mountain Dew and made it to my work in record time! We were both nervous recks!

We called the on-call doc, he said to stay at home until I couldn't walk or talk through my contractions. So we stayed at home and just waited… I finally told Josh to get some sleep because I was doing okay for the moment. Friday morning around 9a.m. we went to the hospital to be sent home saying that it was going to take a little more time. Friday night I slept very little...

Saturday was a hard day for me because of all the pain and wondering if I was in "real" labor. The day was hard for Josh too, he wanted to help and the only thing that helped was him being there for me. He constantly asked how I was doing and if I needed anything. That was very reassuring but never made my pain go away. Neither one of us knew what to do because we were first timers. As the day went on it just got worse and worse, I could always talk or curse through the contractions.

Finally, at around 10p.m., Josh and I went for a walk and we had to stop every so often because I was in a ton of pain. Yet still the contractions never came closer together. Sometimes they were 4-5 minutes apart, sometimes 10, and so on... When we came back to the house, Josh insisted that we call the on-call OB doc. She said to go into the hospital to get checked out. When we arrived at the hospital the nurses were quick and thorough. It turns out I was dilated to 4 centimeters and I was there to stay. It was time to get the epidural (thank goodness)! Another nurse came into the room with all the supplies for the epidural. Maybe an hour later the anesthesiologist was in my room and getting to work. He was quick too! I finally had relief!!! We could see contractions on the monitor and I couldn't feel a thing!

We called both sets of parents and tried to set things in motion. My parents live in Michigan. They already had plane tickets to arrive in Arizona for Monday afternoon. Boy, were their plans changed too! They found a flight and were going to make it by noon-ish. Josh's parents arrived at the hospital and it was great to have family support! They were so great and reassuring too!

The on-call doctor came to the hospital and in our room said that she was staying at the hospital but would be sleeping until she was needed... It was nice to know that she was close by in case of anything. At some point I starting receiving Pitocin to get my contractions moving along and I also had to get oxygen through a non re-breather mask. I was still comfortable and everything was going as planned.

Around 4a.m., our good friend Alyssa, who is due any day now too, arrived at the hospital. Her upcoming arrival is her second and he is a boy too! Jacob and her son-to-be (Orion) are going to be best friends. Alyssa has been there for me all along the way. She always had time for me to let me vent or ask questions. Everyone was so excited, taking pictures, and ready to roll!

The next time the nurse check me I was dilated to 7. Soon after my water broke… What a weird sensation when you are numb. It just felt like a pop and it was no big deal. After many cleanings and such, the nurse could not read the heartbeat well on the monitor. She had to put an alternative monitor that attached to Jacob's skull. The doctor came into the room, which surprised me because it was not time yet for delivery... Sadly, I had to kick Josh's Dad out of the room.

She checked me again and I was dilated to 8 at this point. She said she wanted to try to put me in some different positions... Jacob's heartbeat was decelerating... The doctor and a nurse had to help move me because I was numb! We were all so was scared. The doctor said that she was going to give me Terbutaline to stop my contractions. Some of the side effects that I immediately felt were nervousness, restlessness, and rapid heart rate. I said, I thought I was having an anxiety attack! I was crying and freaking out inside my head! Josh was very supportive, right by my side the whole time telling me everything was going to be alright. Once everything calmed down a little, the doctor had me lay on my right side and told me not to move an inch! She also said that we would wait 30 minutes to 1 hour and go from there.

During the hour that we had to wait, my family and Alyssa kept telling me that everything was going to be fine. I knew that it would, but I also knew in my heart of hearts that I was going to need to have a C section. A couple of times I moved an inch or two because I was starting to get uncomfortable. Everyone would make me go right back to the same position... Eventually, Pitocin was started back up and we would keep re-evaluating the situation. The doctor came back in a short time after and said that it was time to stop my contractions again. We were going to need a C section. As soon as she said that she had to stop my contractions again, I became nervous because of the shot of Terbutaline I was about to get again.

Everyone worked hard and I was in the OR in no time. Josh came in after all gowned up. Everything is a little hazy after that so Josh put in videos and blogs to tell all of you the details of what exactly happened in the OR. All I know is that Josh was by my side every set of the way! He was able to cut the umbilical cord and see my insides on an OR table. He found it fascinating! He always thought he couldn’t handle the site of blood but he did without passing out. He stayed by Jacob or my side the whole time!!!

In recovery, Jacob was bathed and I was able to hold him for the first time. What an amazing moment in my life! I will never forget it for as long as I live... I am a Mom now, can you believe it!!!

Youtube Videos

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Here are some videos that we have taken since Jacob was born. Don't forget if you see a photo that you like, you can click it to get the full image.

This video is of Mommy giving Jacob a bath. He really is not a fan at all.

Jacob gets the hiccups all the time. Daddy turned it into a game.

This is Venus holding Jacob. Mommy was smart to wait to film this when I left. I don't think I would have approved, but here is footage that everything went okay.

The first few days home.

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Mom got some breast pumps and it only took an hour to figure it out. After I did, I had to strike a pose.

I swear Jacob makes some of the cutest faces. It's always nice when we catch them.

Mommy is so sweet to Jacob. She is so nurturing and kind.

So we learned real quick that Jacob does not like baths. Maybe it brings him back to that horrible moment when he was born and got all those shots.

This is my favorite photo of him. It was in mid cry but wearing the Lions onesie makes it seem like it's something entirely different.

Who would have thought Jacob could write. It's just like daddy's handwriting.

This was taken right when we got him home. He was so tired and slept real well that afternoon.

At first I was really nervous about Venus touching Jacob but she is so sweet. I can't believe how well she treats him.

Grandma has come for a visit almost everyday. She is really a sigh of relief and has a special bond with him.

Another cute candid taken in mid cry.

Mommy and Jacob passed out! She can sleep with him on her. Daddy can't do that.

The kitties are home! So far they have ignored him. Only when I stick his hand out do they use it as a petting device.

I think Sheba was placed there.

Mommy and Jacob so content.

It's so amazing to see how well he just lays there wide awake. We place toys around him for visual stimulation. It entertains him for hours.

Day 1 in the hospital.

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The Fidler's arrived Sunday morning. Just a few hours shy from being at the show.

Van was the first "official" visitor that Sunday. He really is a natural and is going to make an amazing father one day. Soccer mom's, be prepared.

Nona and Poppa Fidler were so good with Jacob. Nona held him maybe 60% of the day.

Palmers don't really do well with hats. We just don't look good in them. This maybe the exception.

Poppa Palmer is the MVP for the night. I am not sure how many times the girls kicked with out of the room. He really was a helpful trooper.

Then there is Grandma. She is going to have an amazing impact on Jacob's life.

Nona brought a Detroit Tiger mascot in from Detroit. It was so cute hanging up in the hospital.

The second my head hit the pillow, I was out. I guess I never heard Jacob crying or the nurses coming in the room.

The next morning the Deronne family came over. They have proven to be full of fun facts and advice.

Below is Aunt Chele. I have a feeling this isn't her first baby rodeo. I am happy she is in Jacob's life.

Day 1 of Jacobs life from a nervous fathers POV.

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Jen wrote a long rant about her experience. I hope that she will be willing to post it on here. I think it's theraputic to share all these thoughts and feelings with people who are willing to read em.

First off, we were prepared for Jacob to arrive before I think he was even concieved. That maybe an overstatement. The truth is, we were ready to roll. Jen had gone through a long nesting phase. We had his room setup, all his clothes for his first year of life, and a lot of diapers. I don't think I had much to do with the whole nesting process. In fact, I don't think it hit me until she went into labor.

After a false alarm, Saturday we felt was going to be the date he came out. Jen was in a lot of pain with contractions and they weren't getting any better as the day went by. I might have asked her 100 times if she was alright. As a first time father, I was really scared. What if's about my wife and my sons health was constanly running through my head. Fortunately, I had a stash of xanex built up for this day.

Jen and I took a walk along the greenbelt about 8pm at night. I remember her waddling as we went down the path. She kept thinking that today was not the day as she stopped every 5 steps to gain her strength to walked a few more steps. I finally talked her into letting me take her to the hospital. After a brisk cleaning of the house and packing up the car, we were on our way.

We arrived to a very quiet hospital. As she talked to the receptionist, she downplayed the amount of pain she was in. After getting hooked up to all these monitors and machines, her cervix was measured and sure enough, she was a 4. They told us it was time and she wasn't going anywhere. The next step was to call the parents.

I talked to them 30 minutes beforehand to tell them we were heading to the hospital, they told me to call them when we found out more. I tried calling them to tell them it was time but there was no answer. I tried calling 50 more times in the next hour and no answer. Finally they called. They were on their way. When they arrived, I was told my dad took his sleeping pill right before I originally called. The pill makes him a little wacky. Needless to say, the next 5 hours was a very interesting experience. Alyssa showed up around that time to help Jen out. Though she already had a epidural, she still didn't know what was going to happen next. Alyssa being a veteran at this process really helped us quite a bit.

To make a 12 hour story short, there were complications with the birth. I'll let Jen give you the details, but I was scared. Everytime Jen moved, Jacobs heart rate would slow down. It looked like we were going to have a C section. They told me I could pick someone to come in the OR with me. I looked at everyone who was there and saw a reason why everyone should be in there. So I decided that none of them should be there. This was going to be a journey for the two of us. They wheeled her into the OR and I waited for them to let me get in there. What was maybe two minutes seemed like 30 minutes. I was ready to flip out. Someone gave me some OR scrubs and I ran in there. Jen was already sedated and they were quickly at work. I always said I would get woozy if this had to happen (I don't do well with blood) but I was actually quite fascinated.

Words can't describe the feelings and thoughts I felt when he came out. So I have this youtube video to do that. I knew he was going to be fine, but I felt so bad for Jen. His birthday has finally arrived and here she is sedated and strapped to a table, unable to move. So I did my best to describe what I saw to her.

I must warn you this video could be a little graphic for the faint of heart. There is little to no blood but it is the miracle of birth.

I remember vividly them asking if I would wheel him out to triage. Here was my little son in a cart. I am wheeling him down the hallway and Alyssa and my mom come running up to us. I was so teared up and choking my words. All I could get out was "he's so healthy and beautiful" I then ran back into the OR to be with my wife. I knew my son would be in good hands. Jen was still pretty out of it. They were stapling her back up. I could tell by the doctors laughing and goofing around, this was routine and everything was going to be alright. I decided to go back out and see my son.

At this point he already had his shots and vaccines, he looked like he had been to hell and back. Hungry and tired. It was a successful day and I was happy to just go up to our room.

I think my mom was the first one to ever hold him.

Jen out of the OR but still pretty out of it.

She says she doesn't remember any of this. As time has gone on she has put all the pieces together. The drugs did a number on her.

Why am I doing this?

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I'll tell you why, I am a proud father. I've spent all day working on this. I've been through 3 web publishers and everyone made it harder and harder to create.

The only thing I want to do with this is post pictures for family members and share my thoughts and feelings. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did making it.

If this is your first time navigating through a blog, it's quite easy. Look to the right side of your screen, you'll see months and archives. Click a month and my posts will appear. You can also click a photo and it will blow up to a bigger image. Please enjoy and feel free to comment.