Leyton & Co.

catch up..

2012-02-10T12:00:00.000-08:00

I totally forget to post these pictures of our awesome trip to the zoo with the boys! Watson (who's about to bring boy #4 into our lives..), myself, Leyton, Zakary and Finn journeyed to the Minnesota Zoo with free tickets that Hilary won! thank you thank you Hil!

We had so much fun wearing ourselves out my chasing around these boys. Someday maybe we'll have some girls to bring, and they'll enjoy actually watching the birds and looking at flowers. But these boys loved the shark, the penguins and the jaguars!

typical Leyton fashion.

adorable.

Brothers, Week 5

2012-02-10T11:43:00.000-08:00

He's playing the Finn guitar.. as he should.

what's in a name.

2012-02-09T13:13:00.000-08:00

Finny. Finny boy. Finnster. Finnski. Finnegan. Finny finn. Finn.

We love you.

Valentines love.

2012-02-08T18:00:00.000-08:00

My crafty side came out with these Valentines Day mailboxes! I saw the mailboxes in the $1 section at target and thought it'd be fun to do for my boys! The stands are from Ikea, I printed out some silver letters and added a couple heart stickers on the sides. I'm still thinking of spray painting the stands silver.. but, another day.

Starting 5 days before V day, I'm going to leave a little present in the mailbox for the boys everyday to open when they wake up. It was fun picking out the presents too.. don't worry Luke, you're included :) I know, Finn really won't get anything (besides milk and sleep and love) but I couldn't leave him out.. he'll have to jump on board next year.

Leyton, 23 months!

2012-02-06T12:53:00.000-08:00

Dear Mr. Leyton,

You are one month away from being 2 years old! I can't believe it... I can't believe that you're almost 2 but sometimes I can't believe you're not older. You act SO old these days and if we're judging by your size.. I feel like your seven! You talk so much, you can say tons of words so clearly and you'll try everything else. You love to repeat what I say and can string together small sentences! You love to say things like "come on daddy!".. "big truck".. "it's all gone.." and lots more little phrases. You have the cutest little memory and will remember things like the balloon episode. Where you're balloon went up in the sky and that whole night and next day, all we heard was a rambling of "uh oh.. all gone.. boon.. up.. moon. buh bye boon." It was adorable :)

You love to read books and can spend quite a while looking at all the pictures and saying the words. You love to color, draw on your chalk wall and are pretty good at identifying your colors (you're moving beyond everything being yellow!). You love to play hockey and anything with a ball. You're crazy about animals (wild animal theme party coming up!) and can make tons of animal noises and say their names. Your favorite movie is Madagascar.. you'll yell "marty!" when you want to watch it and can dance along with the crazy animals (roll it!). You're getting pretty good at saying the names of your family members.. although Stephanie is a tough one :)

You can identify some letters and numbers and try to sing along the alphabet song! You still have crazy concentration when it comes to lining up your toys.. it's just hilarious. You are a wild man and love to run and jump all the time! You still sleep like a champ but get super wound up before you crash. You love to pray before we eat and before you sleep and have recently volunteered to pray.. your rambling is adorable.

We love you like crazy little man, you are going to be an awesome older brother and oldest child in this family. We love being around you and you bring such a light to our days!

Brothers, Week 4

2012-02-03T12:01:00.000-08:00

I think somebody is warming up to this idea!...

he wanted to keep holding the baby.. I promise I'm not a bad mother :)

on my mind.

2012-02-02T12:45:00.000-08:00

My heart is heavy today.. with joy and with sorrow. It's been one of those days, of reflecting and praying. There is so much to be grateful for in life.. so many blessings that the Lord has so generously given us. But there's also a lot of.. heartache. and just complications. that make life what it is.

First it's the babies. I love getting on facebook and seeing all the pregnancy/baby news among my friends! It's so exciting to get the news of a new life quickly approaching. This is the basic run down of my friends (and this isn't a complete list, just the most recent and upcoming.. there's been so many!)

First, my friend Watson is anxiously awaiting the arrival of little Levi. He seems to want to make his appearance early.. but just stay in there little buddy! (maybe until March?) :) This is my sweet friend with her man Zakary. I can't wait for them to be a family of 4 and experience this new whirlwind! (sure, whirlwind is the nice word for it!)

Then, there's Johnna who is due in June and is hosting an adorable "gender reveal" party this Saturday to let us know what this baby is! ahh! And my friend Mary, who is due in May (hurry up May!! surprise baby coming!). There's quite a few baby's due this summer.. it's going to be a wonderful summer!

and the baby's that just happened.. my friend Lindsay had sweet little Jada, with some complications.. but God has been SO good to that family and has answered incredible prayers! And my friend Lizzy had baby girl #2. miss Penelope. (she makes adooorable babies.. so keep em comin!) But maybe we'll learn to not have them so close right? And Allison recently had little Ruby!

Like I said, those are just the recent, and only a few. There's tons of tons! Oh how I love this stage in life. See what I mean.. joy! my heart is exploding with gratitude and joy for what God has done.

But then there's the other side of life. The hard stuff. The stuff that you don't think we should have to deal with, but there's no escaping it. And God knows that! He is completely faithful through it all.

The short story is.. a fellow teacher or mine at Liberty has battled cancer for 7 years now. Chris is a young guy.. so full of life and wisdom I can't help but envy. He has so much light that points directly to Christ and I am lucky to know him for the brief time I did. He is leaving this world.. possibly today. He, his wife Emily and their 2 year old daughter Erika are facing challenges that are beyond understanding. But they are also rising above it, crossing this river and glorifying the Lord in incredible ways. See, that's why we're here! That's why God brings us through this.. life is not fair, life doesn't make sense. That's one lesson that I hope I can bring to my children.. but that through it all God is faithful to deliver us. There will be sorrow, but joy triumphs.

The verse that has been laid on my heart today as I think about Chris. "I have completed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith! Finally the crown of righteousness is reserved for me. The Lord, the righteous Judge will award it to me in that day - and not to me only, but also to all who have set their affection on His appearing." 2 Timothy 4:7-8

That's what life is about.. to complete well and finish the race! Apologies if this is random, but such is my heart today. Until next time :)

date night

2012-01-30T16:56:00.000-08:00

Let me start by saying, I need a date night. with my husband. For those who don't know, he's really funny, cool and super fun to be around. And I think I'm fun to be around, but you wouldn't know by how much the brothers stress me out lately! whew, I'm no fun post 5pm. or really anytime I don't have caffeine. But for starters, I really just need to get out of this house. So on Saturday night, since we couldn't work out a babysitter (any takers?).. I had the privilege of going on a triple date with all my boys. and it was lovely.

We wanted to go ice skating in downtown St. Paul, but it was waaay chaotic and crowded. Leyton wasn't having that, so we just walked around, enjoyed the ice sculptures, live music, all that.

love this.

We then went to Punch Pizza and loved every bite.

the night ended with a perfect snuggle date with my gentleman. chivalry is not dead.

thank you boys!

Finn

2012-01-30T16:49:00.000-08:00

The photogenic one of the family.. mr. handsome!

Brothers, Week 3

2012-01-28T13:53:00.000-08:00

I promise Leyton does smile and laugh a lot.. he just never lets me photograph those moments. And to his defense, I was forcing this picture right before nap time. and he loves his naps!

This picture cracks me up.. tis life with boys.

tummy time and haircuts

2012-01-25T19:15:00.000-08:00

Today was one of those days. One of those days where I'm feeling grossly sick, Leyton is teething and drooling all over the place (weird), Finn is just high maintenance and I'm doing everything I can to not look at the clock and count down the minutes til this day is over. It's one of those days where I banish any guilty thoughts of Leyton watching 3 rounds of Elmo. and one of those days where I made it through the whole day without showering, brushing my teeth or changing my shirt after I was spit up on. come on now, really.. don't you want this life Erin? :)

This day brought on those feelings that are inevitable in this life of a mom.. Is this really my life now? Will I ever go out again? Will I ever look halfway decent again? Can I pleeease stop changing diapers? But.. tomorrow is a new day. (and we're going to the zoo!!)

I'm very ready for nicer weather and for the sun to shine. And to be brave enough to venture out with two crazies. Until then, we'll stay inside and keep ourselves busy..

start by staring at lil' Finn!

working on his neck strength with some tummy time.. lazy boy :)

and playing with the big boy Leyton! (seriously! he's huge!)

He also had his first big boy haircut. He has a great shag going on most of the time, which ends up turning into a serious mullet if you don't watch it. It bugs his ears a bunch too, so my mom cut it! He looks like a little 80's boy with it longer in front and short on the sides. I love it!

but, this day is I'm sure much better for aunt Britt! Happy 24th birthday Britt! We love you!

Brothers, Week 2

2012-01-22T20:06:00.000-08:00

I love their little bodies and their little diapers. Oh, these sweet moments.

I couldn't choose just one.. they're just so funny.

Leyton is mesmerized by Elmo. and Finn, the window. ooooh.

a day in the life..

2012-01-18T07:22:00.000-08:00

this is what our days look like around here lately...

through the eyes of my below average camera on my phone. instagram style.

starts with naked cuddle time in bed.

play time

elmo time.

easton.

stare at Finn time.

post nap reading time.

oh Leyton..

loving my boys.

peaceful sleep..

and the days keep coming..

Happy one month, Finn

2012-01-16T20:12:00.000-08:00

Little Finn is one month old today! I still can't believe he's here.. I'm still getting used to say his name. and calling him my son. and talking about the brothers. But at the same time, it makes perfect sense and I can't imagine anything different!

At one month, Finn is eating and sleeping like a champ. He's awake more during the day and falling into a nice schedule of eating about every 3 hours. He still wakes up twice at night and those nights are not always easy. Sometimes he'll stay up for a little while after he eats, which is very tiring! He has moments after he eats where he grunts and seems pretty uncomfortable, like his stomach doesn't feel right.. We're trying some probiotic drops now, and they do seem to help! Not nearly as bad as Leyton's acid reflux, but these Prosser boys sure have digestive problems :)

He's a very noisy eater, a noisy sleeper and has cute little, high pitches noises that he makes. He definitely smiles, but it's hard to tell what he's smiling at. You can just tell he's very content. He's been working on tummy time and also locking his sweet eyes on the animal mobile. He also likes his baths in the whale tub! So cute.

I love love having two boys and just love my sweet Finn. Everyday is a treat with this little guy!

We love you buddy!

Brothers. Week 1

2012-01-12T12:54:00.001-08:00

I have one, and only one new years resolution. And it's not even my idea! It's stolen from my friend Alison.. she has 2 boys and did the sweetest thing this past year. She took pictures of her boys once a week and the transformation is just darling! Check out her post here.

So that's what I'll do! It will be so fun to see not only the changes of the brothers individually over this next year, but to see them together. Whether they like or not...

I'm thinking Leyton doesn't so much love it here.. he'll get used to it. Mr. Finn isn't going anywhere buddy!

Leyton v. Finn

2012-01-12T12:53:00.000-08:00

Speaking of the brothers..

This new adjustment in Leyton's life has been.. interesting. He has honestly done really well and way better than I expected. But, it hasn't been easy. On any of us in this house. Phase one of introducing Finn was great. He was so sweet and loving.. he wanted to cuddle and kiss the little guy and hold him whenever we'd let him. It was the new and exciting phase. But that can't last forever! darn.

Phase two hasn't been so good. We've had some issues. There have been a couple of instances while I'm holding/feeding Finn and Leyton somehow (somehow?!) hurts himself. Cue the crying and wailing from Leyton.. so I go to comfort Leyton and he just milks it. At that moment, Finn decides to cry and wail as well. My boys are dramatic! So I go to comfort Finn. And Leyton gets seriously offended. I have a feeling if Leyton could put it into words, he'd be saying, "put that baby down and comfort me!"

So, we'll see how this goes.. hopefully we'll all survive! I consider it a great accomplishment that I haven't cried yet!

Here's some outtakes of the brother photo of the week...

See, here's the sweet phase!

Now he's done.

And he gets a little crazy..

hockey!

2012-01-10T17:10:00.000-08:00

Leyton has been going through a major growth spurt lately.. we're probably noticing it more because he's so huge compared to his brother but seriously, he's massive! He has not only grown in size but also in his smartness. I know it's not a word, but it should be. He is saying SO many words and imitates the words we say all the time. One of his favorite words.. hockey!! He says it with so much passion too. His nightly routine with Luke involves hockey, and often his morning routine and maybe afternoon if he can get his mom to join in. So, we were pumped to get this little athlete out on this ice at an abnormally early age! :)

His awesome aunt and uncle, Nate and Britt (heyyy!) got him mini-skates for Christmas this year. They are so adorable and so legit! Last Saturday, we went to Elk River to skate on the infamous hockey pit in the town Luke grew up in.. Hanke pit! We didn't have too high of expectations.. I mean, he's not even 2. But it was really cute, he loved seeing the kids shooting the puck (hockey!), Uncle Kabes skating around (hockey!)

It was quite the dream come true for Grandpa Prosser.. and Luke was on cloud nine as well. I'm sure he'll have many more winters to practice!

the newbie.

2012-01-06T12:43:00.000-08:00

We are falling more in love with our newest addition everyday. It's only been 3 short weeks, but it's honestly crazy to think about life pre-Finn! How does that happen? He's so quickly stolen our hearts and has made his mark in this family. There's so much to look at, listen to and memorize with this peanut. Here's our notes of all things Finn.

So far his personality is quite mellow and easy going. Side note.. I was looking back at the blog when Leyton was 3 weeks old and he has already made his mark as well, and was making himself known as an active little babe! He was a bit of a handful as a newborn, and was quite a mover early on. Finn has his moments where he pumps and kicks his arms and legs.. it's just adorable. But overall, he's pretty easy going! He definitely has no choice but to get used to the noise and chaos around this house!

He makes the cutest little squeaks and sounds. He knows mommies voice and definitely responds when I get close to his face. I do love this stage. Leyton is all about dad right now, but with Finn, only mom wins :) Just let me enjoy this!

As with all newborns, he sleeps and eats like a champ! He is doing much better at his nights just in the past few days. He's getting the hang of going back to sleep after he feeds and not being the party animal he thought he was going to be... at 3am.

Let's see... He likes the swing and sleeps in it often. He is just now fitting into newborn clothes.. for a while he was swimming in them. I try some of the 0-3 month clothes but right now they're all big! love my little guy!! With Leyton, I was so anxious to put him in all these clothes that are so.. grown up! That made him look like such a little man. But this time, it's all onesies.. I love him looking liking a newborn, I want to prolong this stage as long as I can!

His head is doing great, healing really well. He's not so fragile anymore and I forget he even has an incision. Such a blessing that everything has gone so well! He has a check-up next week for his head, but we're so thrilled!

At his 2 weeks appointment, he was 7 lbs, 10 oz (21%!) and 22 inches long (73%).. love my tall, skinny boy!

photos.

2012-01-06T12:42:00.000-08:00

more photos from our mini photo shoot this morning! Thank you Johnna and Watson! I forget how hard these newborn shoots are... and add a crazy 22 month old!

Happy 22 months Mr. Leyton and 3 weeks to Finn!

Christmas snapshots

2011-12-29T18:51:00.000-08:00

We had an incredibly fun few days surrounding Christmas.. I cannot begin to describe how blessed we are with our families. Someday, probably in heaven.. I'm going to sit around laughing and talking with every one of my family members and never stop! Until then, I'll take these moments..

loooove my sons. just obsessed!

The cuddly Finn..

Jude (9 months) and Leyton. They have a special relationship :)

Landon (3 years) and Leyton. They're trouble.. this is a "he's not sharing, I want it, it's mine" moment.

I told you.. special.

Lisa holding Finn! oh what a pumpkin..

photo shoot moment. Ray Bans.

Onto Christmas at the Prossers! So fun to be with Stevin (Steph and Kevin), and grandma and grandpa. Just wish Nate and Britt could be there!

Ga-ma!

best. Christmas. ever.

after all those gifts, he wanted to play with his stamp set. because he's that cool.

Christmas at the Kirkpatricks!

Aunt Erin and the Finn-ster

Delaney and Jude! 9 month cuties.. sit/scoot around and act cute!

getting serious with the chainsaw.

Uncle Tyler. pounding and drinking milk.

skater.

Ernie and Nathan!

Uncle Nathan and Delaney!

The whole family!

Leyton, Luke, Kristen, Finn, Lisa, Jude, Ryan, Tyler, Erin, Momma, Dad, Landon, Delaney, Nathan, Chrissie.

We are rarely all together, so we had to capture this moment!

Attempting to get a picture of the cousins. We were screaming in the background... "the wheels on the bus go round and round!"

and done.

cute.

and ending with a naked cuddle time!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-26T11:55:00.000-08:00

We had an incredible Christmas weekend with our families.. we were so blessed to spend time with (almost) all of our family! It's such a humbling thought to consider how Jesus came into this world. It makes it so real with the birth of little Finn. Such a helpless baby, Jesus grew to become the Savior of this world and the reason we celebrate Christmas. love that...

Tons and tons of pictures to come.. but here's some of our favorite Christmas gift!

and the boys!

family of 4!

2011-12-21T13:54:00.000-08:00

We're doing great around here! We're all walking around with big smiles on our faces.. we're soaking in every bit of these first moments together.

life just got really, really sweet..

heading home!

2011-12-20T09:50:00.000-08:00

After what feels like 3 weeks (really, only 4 days?!) we're headed home! Finn had the surgery yesterday in the evening to have the growth from his head removed. Surgery went well.. Luke and I were a mess the whole time. As it always goes with anything doctor related.. you wait, then wait, and wait some more. But finally, after the surgeon was finished and gave us a full report on how it went, we were able to breath a little easier. It's still pretty sad though, the incision is kinda scary looking with the stitches and the cut. The after care is minimal and we're able to wash the area normally and he can wear hats. He was under anestesia and on some pain meds so he was pretty dreary last night but is more alert today.

It's so fun getting to know a new boy.. and doing this newborn thing again! well, maybe fun isn't the right word but it's completely rewarding :) We're getting to know how he feels about sleeping (who really wants to sleep at night?), feeding (all. the. time) and just the little quirks in between. I honestly love it and it's crazy how much comes back as we jump into the newborn thing again!

Finn and I head home this afternoon to join the other half of our family and bring the Prosser fam back together again. ahhh can't wait. I am so stinkin emotional though this whole journey, my heart is being tugged all over the place. I am just in awe of how much we have been blessed. all because of Finn's entrance into this world!

little buddy! sorry for the gross iphone photo, Finn. doesn't do ya justice.

all is well..

2011-12-18T11:10:00.000-08:00

It's been a good Sunday.. of lounging, feeding, sleeping and staring at this wonder that just entered our lives! He's such a sweet angel and makes the most adorable coo-ing, purring noises, We are loving these first days of getting to know our Finn.

"I lift up my eyes to the mountains—

where does my help come from?

My help comes from the Lord,

the Maker of heaven and earth.

He will not let your foot slip—

he who watches over you will not slumber;

indeed, he who watches over Israel

will neither slumber nor sleep.

The Lord watches over you—

the Lord is your shade at your right hand;

the sun will not harm you by day,

nor the moon by night.

The Lord will keep you from all harm—

he will watch over your life;

the Lord will watch over your coming and going

both now and forevermore.

Psalm 121

"Every good and perfect gift comes down to us from God our Father,

who created all the lights in the heavens.

He never changes or casts a shifting shadow."

James 1:17

Finn Orion has arrived!

2011-12-17T09:57:00.000-08:00

Finn Orion Prosser

December 16, 2011

7:42 am

Our second little baby boy arrived in a memorable fashion early Friday morning, December 16th. He's a wonderful baby and has already added so much to our little family. Here's the story.. it's a crazy one!

It starts on Thursday with my routine appointment. They checked me, I was dilated almost to a 2 and 40% effaced (prego terminology) and my doctor was a little rough with me to try to get things going. I didn't think too much of it, but was hoping this baby would come by the weekend! That night, I had a pregnant massage from my friend Kara and she said she could massage certain pressure points to put me into labor. It was a great, relaxing massage and she massaged my ankles just to see what would happen! oops.

About an hour later, contractions started. I didn't know if they were real ones because they didn't really hurt. So I tried to go to sleep about 10 and they were still coming, but I barely felt them. Then about 2 am, they really started coming. Manageable, and about 7 minutes apart (they want you to come in when they're 3-5 min apart).. then, a couple hours later, they started hurting realllly bad but were not like 12 minutes apart. Frustrating. By this time, we knew this baby was coming! I just really thought it'd be later on Friday sometime, considering Leyton's labor was able the longest one in history.

Anyways, about 6 am, the contractions took a turn. Hurt sooo bad and were about 2-3 minutes apart. We quickly called my dad, who came to be with Leyton, we threw stuff in a bag and we're ready to peel out about 7:20ish. At this time, I was freaking out. I just had this feeling this baby was coming and quick. In the car, it got really bad. The contractions turned from being able to work through them to having the urge to push. (sorry for those who know this feeling.. you're probably hurting right now) Luke was going about 85 mph and may have ran a red light or two. We had to get there!

We get to the ER entrance, we walk in and I start barking orders. I need a wheelchair, I need to push! This baby's coming! It was like a movie or a bad episode of Greys.. at this point, I was pushing. Sorry for the gross details, but at one point, I reached down between my legs and felt a head! ugh. All within one minute, they got me from the chair to a table in a make-shift ER room, the doctors and nurses start swarming, I let some terrible noises from deep within my lungs and one horrible push later, we hear a cry. (sorry if this is dramatic, but let's be honest.. it was nothing but dramatic)

Luke was up by my head, our eyes are locked as he helped me through this. Then, we hear a doctor say "oh, look at the big boy!" boy! boy! We're crying and trying to catch our breath at what just happened. Finn has arrived! We have another boy! what a feeling..

The rest is details.. they took Finn to the NICU to give him some oxygen and make sure was good! They wheeled me off to the labor unit, fixed me up and that was it! All that after-fixing did hurt, but I knew at this point, the worst was over! Finn's nurse came in about 1/2 later to give us the details. He weighed 7 pounds even, 20 inches long.. and this last comment really got us, she said he was really mellow! We had a mellow boy?! He's so sweet though.. he was just laying there looking around and when we went to go see him, we got some adorable smiles out of him.

It says on our charts that our check in time to the hospital was 7:41 and delivery time was 7:42. yikes. Oh, and Luke had to get his comment in.. he called me a super hippie, because I went all natural, without drugs. Right, like I like pain.. I was screaming for drugs in the car.

We are madly in love and even though I thought it was hard to imagine loving someone as much as Leyton.. whew, he has our hearts. We are so excited to have another boy, another addition to our little family! he's just perfect. He looks like his brother, but different too. I think he looks more like Luke :)

Here's another detail to this story that we would ask prayer about. When he came out, the doctor said that he had a skin tag on his head, just to warn us. Poor little buddy came out with a little red growth on the top of his head. They kept us posted over the next couple of hours as to what they thought it was and what the next step would be. At this point, that was our biggest concern, figuring out what was best for him. We met with a neonatal guy who told us they wanted to send him to Children's hospital in St. Paul for further examination. They loaded him up and he rode in his first ambulance ride to St. Paul. That meant that 6 hours after I had delivered him, I was discharged from my hospital and Luke and I headed to Children's.

That's where we are now. In this little closet of a room, with one tiny pull-out couch and a lot of intimidating machines for little Finn. He is doing great and they keep confirming that he is a healthy, perfect boy. We are waiting to hear from the plastic surgeon as to what the next step is for his head growth. It sounds like they're not worried about it and will most likely remove it. If that can happen today or tomorrow, we'll stay put here and wait. Otherwise, if they need to schedule it for this week, we will be able to take him home. The only negative thing about this whole arrangement is I'm not really getting the car I need after delivering a baby. Luckily, my body isn't nearly as much of a train wreck as it was after Leyton but I'm still in a good amount of pain. A pull out couch and a bathroom down the hall isn't quite cutting it.

But, we're counting our blessings! We have a perfect boy, a healthy boy.. just what we've been praying for months for. Thank you Lord! We so appreciate all the prayers and support from people! We'll keep you posted on what comes next..

Oh, and congrats on Aaron Shoemaker for winning the pole.

We award you with a matching middle name :)

one week!

2011-12-12T11:34:00.000-08:00

The tree is lit, the presents are wrapped, the house is decorated and (currently) spotless.. that means I'm ready for ya baby! The boy and girl clothes have their own separate pile, my bag is packed (almost) and the diapers are in a line. You can come now! I am SO ready to meet this little gift, with its own eyes, own ears, own little toes.

woah, typo! I meant to write "gift", but I wrote "girl" first! and I had a dream last night that I was strolling around in our new, awesome stroller with Leyton and Stella! girl on my brain?!

But I am also very, very excited to get rid of this 25 pound load that I've been carrying around.. this baby, that is currently the size of a mini watermelon! ahh!

I have a feeling it's going to be a long week. Until then, I'll dream about Leyton's newborn cuteness.
oh, and feel free to cast your vote :)
click here: www.expectnet.com/games/BabyProsser2

sleepy kid

2011-12-09T13:01:00.000-08:00

Just a couple shots of the boy.. soaking in these last days of being a one-kid parent!

post naptime. a really hard nap!

dear baby..

2011-12-07T12:03:00.000-08:00

to my sweet unborn child,

The countdown is on and you'll be in here in days! I have so many emotions as I think about your arrival. You are our second child, our #2, Leyton's younger brother or sister... so that makes you different. unique, in your own perfect way. We already know your brother so well. It is truly a miracle to think that we will know you in that same way. In just days, we will know your eyes, your smile, your faces.. your name!

Just know we have prayed for you, for months now, we have been praying for every detail of your life.. your health, your development, your whole body, your future, your heart, your relationship with Christ. God has created you just the way you are, with a wonderful life ahead of you! God has prepared Luke and I to be just the parents that you need. We are so ready for that task, so ready to welcome you into our family.

Of course there's plenty to be nervous about.. about how you'll make your entrance, about your first days and weeks in this world, about how Leyton will do.. but I know that when we look at your sweet face, nothing else will matter. You will be here!

We cannot wait to meet you, dear baby. Feel free to come at anytime, we're ready!

"I prayed for this child, and the Lord granted my request."

- 1 Samuel 1:27

38 weeks!

2011-12-05T19:34:00.000-08:00

The countdown is at 2 weeks! 14 days and tons of long, painful hours to go! This baby feels huge and loves to stretch out... feels like it's ready to push its way out! By the books, the baby is about 6.8 lbs and is over 19.5 inches long. He/she has a firm grasp that I'll be able to hold oh-so-soon! The organs have matured and are ready for life outside the womb. Just incredible.

This large torpedo of a baby is taking over any breathing room I have left.. here's the evidence!

At the Guthrie theatre.. last date night with the husband for a while.. loved every second of it!

In other news, we had a wonderful weekend! Date night Friday night (dinner and the Christmas Carol play at the Guthrie.. thank you to my parents for the gift!), Holidazzle parade on Saturday, complete with great friends (the Lees!), huge snowflakes, a happy little boy.. and hot chocolate. Then, on Sunday, I went to a Christmas dessert swap party at my friend Marys (so fun!)

My heart is full and I'm loving every bit of this Christmas season.

I'm ready baby, you can come anytime!

Finn or Stella...

2011-12-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

Two weeks and counting... what'll it be? Will we be welcoming a sweet lil' girl into our family, or another crazy boy for Mr. Leyton? We are so thrilled either way and can't wait to meet him/her!!

dear Leyton..

2011-12-01T12:21:00.000-08:00

my boy,

Today is Thursday.. a normal, mundane Tuesday around our house. It's just you and me hanging out.. playing with all your toys about seven times.. going from room to room finding stuff to do. We watched Elmo together, played with your trucks, played with play-do, threw balls and hit hockey pucks. It's a normal day, but I just want to freeze it and go back to this whenever I want. I know that things are about to change.. yes, for the better, but it's still change! I love and cherish my time with you!

You are just hilarious lately. You have such a vibrant personality that I get to enjoy everyday. You talk a ton, whether we can understand you or not is another story! But you are very daring with your words and will at least try to repeat what we say. "I love you" is the best.. I may be the only one that can understand it, but it's precious.

You seem to be somewhat aware that a baby is coming.. you know the difference between grabbing your big boy diapers and the itsy bitsy diapers that I got for the baby. You know the bassinet and the car seat that are waiting are for the baby.. you make me so proud and I know you'll be such a good older brother!

You have this adorable personality trait that I love watching.. you get so focused when playing with your toys, specifically your cars and trucks. You line them all up with such precision and if one is not in line or not touching the other, you get so frustrated and make sure it's right! Grandpa K thinks you'll be an engineer, or into math and science somehow. You did not get that from your mom! Well, maybe the obsessive compulsive to have everything in line.. but who knows. :)

Today you had one of those cute moments that I never want to forget. You were at grandma's house for a bit and was playing with her nativity scene. You were lining up all the figurines .. all the animals, Mary and Joseph and baby Jesus. Bended down on your knees, you stopped, looked at what you had just created, then bowed your head and folded your hands! You, my sweet boy, knew to pray to Jesus! whew... that'll bring the tears!

We love love love you, our little man and couldn't be more proud of the boy you are becoming!

love, your mom.

O' Christmas Tree 2011

2011-11-29T13:08:00.000-08:00

This is the 3rd year in a row that we've gone to the same Christmas tree farm in Ramsey and chopped down a tree! Last years was more like a branch (here) due to moving.. but this year we got a real beauty! It was so fun to take Leyton this year.. he loved running through the rows of trees, standing by the fire and eating hot dogs. It wasn't exactly a white winter wonderland, more like a rainy dreary day but luckily, not bitter cold! We are quite picky about our trees (must be tall, full and fat!) and we found one that we love. Leyton was really curious about why daddy was sawing it down and putting it on our car.. :)

We got it all decorated and this is house is officially Christmas land! More pictures to come!

he's really into posing lately.. now he crouches and says "cheeee".. I'll take it!

thanksgiving

2011-11-28T11:08:00.000-08:00

I took on the daunting task of hosting a massive Thanksgiving feast at our house this year.. and it was so fun! I had wonderful help from everyone, especially my mom and sister with the day-off cooking. Yes, this is the first turkey I've cooked on my own and it was tasty! We had all the "normal" parts to the meal plus a couple extras that made this meal delicious! We had 15 people at our house.. part of the Kirkpatricks (mom, dad, Erin, Tyler), the Prossers and the Metcalfs (Brittani's fam).

You won't see Leyton in any of these pictures because the meal was strategically set during his naptime, so I could enjoy myself too! But he loved having everyone over.. and we have a social little boy! He got so excited when all of these familiar faces kept walking through the door. His reaction to uncle Nate was the best.. he just kept laughing and laughing!

It was a perfect Thanksgiving, and we have SO much to be thankful for this year!

"Yours, LORD, is the greatness and the power

and the glory and the majesty and the splendor,
for everything in heaven and earth is yours.
Yours, LORD, is the kingdom;
you are exalted as head over all.

Wealth and honor come from you;

you are the ruler of all things.
In your hands are strength and power

to exalt and give strength to all.
Now, our God, we give you thanks,

and praise your glorious name."

1 Chronicles 29:11-13

lounging before the meal..

Erin looking domestic...

my mom looking beautiful and myself looking.. matronly..

the families!

Wild game

2011-11-27T18:48:00.000-08:00

We are coming off of an amazing weekend.. so much great family time, so much to celebrate, too much to eat and preparing for Christmas! It all started on Wednesday night when Britt & Nate invited us to a suite they got for the whole family.. it was so fun to watch Nate play and be with the family in the suite. The grandparents especially loved being about to watch him!

Leyton loved it and walked around like he owned the place..

watching his uncle..

making the people laugh.. or just uncomfortable :)

and what would a hockey game be without a little Elmo to end the night off..

We had such a fun time! Thanks Nate & Britt!

Uncle Nate.

2011-11-22T11:48:00.000-08:00

Hockey is without a doubt a part of the Prosser family.. whether I'm ready for it or not :) I do love that my little Leyton already shows quite an athletic ability.. zero credit to me, probably from the genes of his hockey star uncle Nate! Luke's brother Nate has been up in Minnesota playing in the big-time NHL for the Minnesota Wild and we couldn't be more proud! He is playing so well and we get the awesome privilege to see him in action..

He did a little hockey watching, a lot of Elmo watching.. but when I asked him "where's Uncle Nate?" he points out on the ice... love that! I think a hero is developing..

weekend update!

2011-11-21T11:45:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful weekend in Des Moines and I don't have one picture to show for you! As these weekends always are.. they are quick. and wonderful. and so special. So I was too busy soaking in all that special to take one single picture! You can check Lisa's blog here to see some of the photos she took at Landon's 3rd birthday party! Luke, Leyton and I headed down Friday and joined my parents at Ryan and Lisa's house. So, just use your best imagination to picture the fun weekend we had. Highlights include:

downtown Des Moines holiday promenade, exploring the local shops, getting treats, listening to caroling and finishing off at a German restaurant. fun.

Chaotic and so fun birthday party with tons of kids, gifts and cake.

I love parties! Especially little kid ones!

Shopping and the mall with the girls. Seeing my dear friends Lindsay and Angela and they're adorable boys! so good to just see their faces and enjoy these new babies!

Twilight movie with Lisa. whew... stressful.

church, lunch with my friend Rachel and the long drive home!

Like I said.. wonderful!

Update on the baby front.. I'm 36 weeks pregnant and have less than a month to go!! what?! I can confidently say that I'm so so ready. No, the room isn't ready and clothes aren't washed, but... I can't wait to meet this little mystery baby and to be done being pregnant! This is getting extremely tough. I don't remember it being so difficult with the first pregnancy, but then again, I didn't a 20 month old to keep up with! ugh. New development over the weekend.. my hips hurt and pop and.. spread? all the time. It's quite painful. I just feel large and tired all the time, so I really hope this next 4 weeks goes super fast!

But the good news is, I can start to relax quite a bit from work and keeping up with all the photo editing! I still have more to do (Christmas cards!) but I can actually relax during the boy's naps and have some time to myself between all the Leyton chaos. I'll take it! I cannot wait for this holiday week and for Thanksgiving day with our families.. with everyone coming to our house!

baby bed..

2011-11-16T10:26:00.000-08:00

I am so incredibly grateful to my dear friend Suz who is letting us borrow their baby bassinet for our upcoming baby! It is beautiful. and perfect. and adorable.. and for our baby! With Leyton, we just used the pack n' play in our room for a while, but to have this is such a treat! It's in our room ready to go, and I can't believe that soon a mini-baby will be in there!

thank you a million Suz! You are such a sweet friend.. I miss you too much :(

prayers.

2011-11-10T12:01:00.000-08:00

As these days and weeks are narrowing until we meet our sweet Christmas present, every little moment practically brings me to tears. I picked out some adorable outfits today for the girl or the boy that will make its arrival.. I will show pictures, but I just cry looking at them! I am so overwhelmed lately by an immense feeling of just being blessed. Luke and I have so much to be grateful for, so much to thank God for.. it's just incredible.

I got to hear the little heartbeat again today (140s!) and I was once again struck by how real this is all becoming. We are about to welcome child #2 into our lives, whether we're ready or not! And just like I did last time (here) I would love to ask for prayer in a few areas concerning this upcoming change.. If you are the praying type, which I hope you are.. would you mind lifting us up in prayer?

1. For a healthy baby! For perfect development, no medical complications.. for all of its little body parts that are forming as we speak.

2. For the delivery.. specifically, for me. I can't help but be a little freaked out about the whole thing. It wasn't too long ago that I had to go through such icky, horrible pain (let's be honest! it was bad!). Yes, the reward is amazing, so that will help me get through it but I'm scared! So, please pray that everything goes so smoothly with the labor.

3. For the doctors and nurses that will be with me during the labor. That God would hand pick each one of them to be just what I need.. to be supportive and encouraging and to help me through this!

4. For Leyton! I know everyone says child #1 is really what makes this new transition.. interesting. Please pray that he adjusts so well, that he won't be too jealous for attention, that he would be gentle :) and that he behaves well for Luke and I! I know he is in for quite an awakening, but pray that he does well.

5. For the first month, specifically, in this baby's life. For a healthy development... that he/she feeds well and sleeps well and is super happy! :)

6. I added this last time, and it still seems fitting.. probably always will. But pray for Luke and I financially! To be able to adjust to the added expenses that another baby brings. We know the Lord always always provides!!

Thank you so much.. we know that we wouldn't be anywhere without God's grace and faithfulness and we want Him to lead our entire lives.. especially in the life of this new little miracle!

Sincerely,

Luke, Kristen & Leyton.

the view from up here..

2011-11-08T12:55:00.000-08:00

this is what I'm looking at these days!

Week 34 is in full swing with a baby the size of a cantaloupe taking up all the room it can in my growing belly! This week in the life of the babe.. the fat layers are filling out, making him/her rounder. The nervous system is maturing and the lungs are continuing to mature. It's just incredible that babies being born this week have no major health problems and do just fine! That really is amazing.. it's almost 5 pounds now and I have 6 weeks to go! wow..

Normal life around this house. Tons of dreaming, planning and organizing. Or, at least that's what I want to be doing. Which doesn't help when I have too much photo work to do! We still haven't quite decided on a middle name for the boy yet either, so that's in the works. oh fun stuff :)

Until next time!

changes.

2011-11-03T11:27:00.000-07:00

33 weeks is here and almost gone! That means I have 6.5 to go.. holy cow! It's so fun to read back through this blog to see what was going on in my head during this stage of baby #1. Pictures of my 32 week belly here.. 33 week update here.. so much preparation! Baby showers, nursery preparing, diaper bag shopping.. all so fun! It is crazy how different this time is. It makes me a little sad, to be honest. I was able to be so focused on the upcoming arrival with #1, but this time it takes all my energy just to get through the day with my sanity still intact. I'm so excited just the same, the anticipation is mounting day by day.. I just want him/her to get here.. with me ready?!

I forgot this update (see.. different!), at my appointment last week, everything was measuring right on time. The baby is facing down, with a steady heart rate in the mid 130s. Deepens my boy suspicions.. :) I will now to go the doctor every 2 weeks. Have I mentioned that I love going to my doctor? She is so wonderful, so encouraging and it's my time every few weeks to just think about this babe. Even if it's just for an hour. That heart beat is mesmerizing! Just a miracle that there is a life growing in there that we get to meet in 6 short weeks!

Oh, and here is the shopping I am doing! Double stroller! I have a couple options I've been browsing, but yesterday I got to try out my friends City Select. whew, it's wonderful. We may break the bank a little, but this may have to happen.

skeleton babies.

2011-11-01T11:34:00.000-07:00

and.. our attempt at getting a pictures of Leyton and I together! whatever..

he won. clearly.

lil' poser

2011-11-01T11:31:00.000-07:00

We had a great Halloween weekend around here! It consisted of a very fun housewarming party with a bunch of friends.. so fun to see everyone and all fit in our house! :) We had some great food (pulled pork sandwiches, little smokies, pumpkin pie dip & apples, chips & cheese, candy corn cookies.. and! homemade root beer complete with dry ice)

Then last night we hung around our house, got a couple treat-or-treaters at our house, but then decided to do the rounds just on our immediate street, meet the neighbors and grab some candy! Leyton loved it! He was really getting the hang of walking up to eat door, grabbing one piece (and not 10). He just didn't want to let any out of his hands. so cute. But it was really fun to meet some people we haven't met yet before everyone hibernates during the winter!

and I just had to include these photos because it cracks me up. first time he really realized he should pose for the camera. And my mom and dad love this because when I was his age, I was notorious for the lean pose. my little guy!

updated house

2011-10-31T14:13:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos of the house progress these days! We had a housewarming party on Saturday night (or really, get together.. we're getting old. we don't.. party.) So that was a good excuse to get this house cleaned up as best as we could!

I feel like explaining along with every picture.. as to what's still a work in progress, what the plans are.. (young house love style?) but for now, here's just the photos!

office:

living room:

dining room:

looking out on our new deck!

messy kitchen:

new backsplash! thanks Muggs!

laundry room:

growth spurt

2011-10-26T18:32:00.000-07:00

We're feeling large around here these days.. both due to growing babies!

I am 32 weeks along and carrying a jicama baby in my belly! This growing thing is almost 4 pounds and is taking up much of my uterus, and everything surrounding.. including my ribs. From here on out, the baby will gain about 1/2 lb per week.. it was toenails, fingernails and real live fuzzy hair! I really am feeling much bigger. I feel like I've turned that corner of being quite uncomfortable. It's harder to sleep, harder to get up from bed, harder to hold Leyton and chase him all day long. oof.

In other news, our dear friends the Lees welcomed little miss Ruby Layne Lee into the world on Saturday. I'm so excited for these two.. now three! I have a lot of pregnant friends and the list keeps growing! I love it. The list includes: Lizzy, Watson, Johnna and Mary.. and past tense.. Allison.

And the other growing human around this house.. my little mister! This was today's activity.. Playing with homemade play-doe. Way fun for both of us!

bed time.

2011-10-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

I love bedtime around this house.. it's a little chaotic and a lot wonderful.. and to think we only have one kid! We've got the routine down by now.. so figured I'd record these photos! It'll be fun to look back and probably laugh that we thought this was chaotic.

But this is how it goes!

Step one: bathtime. Leyton loves the water and the toys and we often have to pull him out.

Step two: brushing teeth! He's getting the hang of this now (he has a lot of teeth! I think 12?!) He pulls up his stool and likes to do it himself. sure thing, mr. independent.

Step three: reading books. This can go on for a while, but he loves it and so do we! You've probably figured out that Leyton doesn't still too often, so when he does, we cherish it!

Step four: bed time! He rarely fights this.. just finds his spot among the blankets and pillows and settles in! no toys in bed buddy. :)

18 month pictures

2011-10-16T19:41:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun photo shoot for Leyton's 18 month pictures.. so glad we got these done! And it's so nice to have pictures of the 3 of us (or 3.5 with the bump!)

Thanks so much to Emily Steffen for capturing these moments!

dreaming..

2011-10-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

dreaming on this windy Friday afternoon of itty-bitty babies..

of baby toes.

baby bottoms.

sleeping baby lips. oh so sweet.

babies and their big brothers!

and their mommies... oh.

mini update

2011-10-13T08:23:00.000-07:00

As always, it's busy around here! There is an end in sight, however, and I'm fighting to get there. I am working non stop on photos.. editing my life away. But in the midst of all this, I still have a healthy, growing baby in my belly and a wonderful little boy to keep me going!

The little peanut that will arrive in December (2 months!) has made it to 30 weeks.. this week it's about 16 inches long and weighs almost 3 lbs. The eyesight keeps developing and its job these days is just to pack on the pounds and keep getting bigger! And my job is to not let all that weight show too much on my body... eek.

Another piece of news worth mentioning.. I was apart of the Twin Cities Wedding Fair last Saturday and had a booth to promote my photography! It was way fun and I'm really excited about the business it will bring. This year, I did about 17 weddings and that's about all I could handle. So that's the same plan for 2012.. book what I can then put a cap on it so I don't overwhelm myself too much. Here's a couple pictures from that!

With my dear friend Johnna..

(side note.. I made those curtains! Well, my mom and I did. One of my prouder moments in life!)

And here's a photo of the two boys I hang out with quite a bit.. the Easton dog and Leyton! We went to the dog park in White Bear, which is amaaazzing.. totally wore them both out. I didn't think Leyton had a stopping point, but after running constantly for about 45 min, he bent down on his knees to tell me he's done!

fall days

2011-10-10T11:22:00.000-07:00

It's been one of those picture perfect falls so far.. the weather has been beautiful and warm, the trees are amazing and we're just soaking it in!

I've been to the apple orchard 6 times so far, I'd say that's a pretty good fall. :) mmm.. apples, apple pie, apple donuts, yum! Leyton and I are at the park almost every day and have enjoyed some wonderful walks, tons of playing in the leaves, running with Easton and just enjoying being outside! It's crazy to think in a couple short months, we'll have white snow-covered grounds and freezing temps! ahh I'm not ready! So for now, we're outside as much as we can..

dodging the leaves..

oh, this boy.

2011-10-04T13:44:00.000-07:00

We know there's a good chance our upcoming kids won't get as much attention as this little guy does. But, there are numerous times throughout the day when we just catch ourselves saying, "isn't he so cute." "he's so funny.." "aren't we the luckiest parents?".. and on it goes. Yes, there's plenty of "Leyton, stop! Leyton don't touch! Leyton, what?!" But look at this kid!

This is a typical Tuesday morning..

he's reallly into cars these days. He spends a lot of time lining them up and pushing them around. just hilarious. I wish I had an audio clip with this :)

and it's truck day! garbage day.. big deal around here!

5 whole years!

2011-09-26T13:12:00.000-07:00

In other news, this past weekend, Luke and I celebrated five years of being married!

Without being too sappy, because I may start crying..

I can't begin to thank you, Mr. Luke Prosser, for being my other half. for completing me in ways I couldn't have imagined. We are a perfect team, a perfect couple and life is truly richer every day because of you! We have a lot of incredible memories from these past five years and I absolutely can't wait to see where else life takes us.

ahhh.. this wonderful September 23, 2006!

3rd trimester cabbage

2011-09-26T13:08:00.000-07:00

See, sometimes I forget I'm having a baby... and so soon! And then I remember that my lower back hurts, I'm abnormally tired and I can't get up and down like I used to! Must mean we're in the homestretch.. 3rd trimester is here! At 28 weeks, this baby seems way bigger than 2.5 pounds while it's bouncing in my stomach..

This week, our sweet mystery baby is about 14 inches long.. about the size of a Chinese cabbage (look it up! It's big!) The baby can blinks its eyes, which now have lashes.. the eyesight is developing more and can see light that filters through the womb. The brain is also developing billions of neurons and its adding more fat to be ready for this cold world on the outside!

And for my personal update.. I so think it's a boy!! At my latest baby appointment, the heart rate was at about 130s, 140s... which was exactly where Leyton was! It just all felt so familiar.. so that's my guess! I'm thinking Leyton is going to have to welcome a brother to this world (which is sooo great).. but I guess I could still be surprised with a girl! Suz is convinced.. I like that, hold on to it Suz :)

I'm getting a little scared these days.. the whole idea of going through a horrific labor completely freaks me out. The first time, sure there's a lot to be scared of, but you really have no idea what to expect. This time, I do! 18 short months ago, I went through one of the most painful and difficult times in my life.. and I'm volunteering to do this again?! And then there's life after the birth.. life with a newborn and with a Leyton. oh boy, that freaks me out of a little too. Luke and I said last night.. it seems so hard to imagine loving another baby as much as we love lil' Leyton. I know we will, it's just hard to believe!

Some days I feel really ready, and then other days not at all.. I'm torn between wanting to meet this child so bad and wanting to be done being pregnant! (mostly that).. and wanting these last 3 months with just Leyton to go nice and slow. Either way, we're in for a big adventure!

and here's my belly lately..

shy boy.

2011-09-21T18:22:00.000-07:00

Quick story about the man of the hour.. Mr. Leyton.

and no, I haven't forgotten about the little baby in my belly. he/she won't let me forget, crazy active thing. another post :)

I've talked about this before, but Leyton doesn't do nursery. at all. The second we leave, he bursts out crying and doesn't stop hyperventilating until we come back, it's bad. I feel horrible for the guy but we keep trying.. we do like church and would really like to attend! So, since moving to White Bear Lake, we thought we'd try again. and... he made it! 2 weeks in a row! We haven't been those shamed parents that head toward the nursery when our number flashes! point for us. :)

But, week one was hilarious. We got signed up, headed toward his nursery, pushed the clinging boy toward the volunteer, try to hold back tears of our own and headed toward the big people church. We thoroughly enjoyed the service but could barely make it through the final prayer before we bolted upstairs. When we got to the door, we couldn't find him until we searched in the corner right next to the door. There he was, puppy and paci in hand, not moving a muscle. He made it, but just barely.

Sure, we wish Leyton could practice his social skills with the other kids and not stand terrified in the corner, but no crying baby? ... we'll take it!

18 months!

2011-09-19T11:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr. Leyton,

It's official! You are a year and a half old, I can't believe how big you are! Sometimes that seems little.. you're really only in year one of your whole life. But a lot of the times, you act like you're five and look like you're at least 2.. holy cow, you're a big boy. At your 18 month appointment (which you haaated), you weighed 28 lbs (81%) and have a little height of 2' 10" (95%). You had your routine shots and just by even walking in that office, you started your pouty lip and the tears came flowing. Poor guy, you finally have somewhat of a memory! But afterward, we split a donut at Grandma's bakery and things were starting to look up from there.

You are still as wild as ever and keep me running! You have no sympathy for your pregnant mom and just take off running without looking back. You love to play at the park, swing, go down slides on your own and play in the sand. You are really adjusting to your new home and can walk up the stairs on your own, but haven't quite mastered the downward walk. You love your play room and are getting more and more independent. You love to play on your own, with the trains, cars and the trucks ("tucks!"). You are such a natural boy and have such great "boy" noises when you play.

You are a pretty good cuddler and love to read books with your dad and I. You are a smart kid and keep the books coming right before bedtime. You point out tons of things in the books and talk and talk.. although they are rarely actual words. But you think you're having full conversations! You sleep like a champ, down to one nap a day and a long night sleep. Keep that going buddy, your mom loves it :)

We cherish everyday with you, especially because in 3 short months.. you'll be an older brother and it won't be all about you! (oh, you have no idea what's coming).. We love you little buddy!!

mom and dad

this is where we live..

2011-09-19T10:36:00.000-07:00

new house.

2011-09-12T18:21:00.000-07:00

Ok, hello! We're back!

kind of...

This whole new house thing comes with tons of changes, tons of details and tons of things that don't work how you want. One of those things is the stinkin' internet. This is the thing.. I need internet. for emailing. uploading photos. and important stuff like blogging!

So here is the long awaited BEFORE photos. As I looked at these, it just made me tired thinking about how much there is to do and how pinterest hasn't quite pulled through yet and transformed my house into a "pinterest-worthy" home. But... it's coming! It has been quite overwhelming, but really fun to make this house the Prosser home. Just to be on our own again. and cook meals. and eat at a dining room table. and have Leyton right across the hall. and have more rooms than we have stuff for. We're incredibly blessed, that's for sure!

Here's the mini-tour!

If you want a full tour.. come visit!! I'll put you to work.

Front door: Fall has arrived.

Right when you walk in, stairs to the upstairs:

Downstairs bathroom:

Kitchen! My favorite room! Oh, this looks so different than when we first moved in..

Dining room:

Living room. bare. Paint is happening tomorrow!

Looking into dining room/kitchen:

Upstairs kids bathroom:

Our bedroom: Side note.. yes, that's the headboard I made!! still has some finishing button touches, but it's awesome. and the bedding has since changed.

Master bath: turns out a nice bathtub is paradise for a stressed out, pregnant lady!

Leyton's future big boy room and current toy room!

Office. ugh.

That's the place! There's a basement too.. it's finished and has another bedroom/bath.. but it's a mess. It's just boxes and attempted storage. It'll get there! And if you tell me you're coming to visit, it'll really get there! I need a deadline.

oh wait, there's a little package arriving in December that is a bit of a deadline.

As soon as internet comes (soon?!?!) I'll be better about blogging. My baby in my belly is doing awesome and growing like a champ. My baby Leyton is massive and awesome and just the funnest kid around!

until then...

perspective

2011-08-25T13:25:00.000-07:00

through all the chaos these days..

two things that bring peace to my heart and a smile to my face.

This verse:

"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him." - 1 John 5:14-15

And this boy:

homeward bound.

2011-08-19T11:03:00.000-07:00

Life is extremely busy these days! But with new things.. like..

building headboards.

love this Erin :)

and painting cupboards.

and doing lots of phone photo shopping.

and lots of pinning. lots.

and measuring windows. and buying paint brushes and tarps. and researching decks. and buying alliances. and craigslisting. and closing down Lowes almost every night.

and daydreaming of what our new house will look like. someday!

words.

2011-08-17T13:19:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd post an update on Leyton's ever-expanding vocabulary! Just in the past week, it's doubled! Impressive, coming from 5.. He's getting more daring in the words he replicates and how he attempts to communicate. yes, yes.. I know this is another mom-excitement probably only to me and not many other people, but that's ok :)

Leyton's words:

1. Mom, Mommy, Mama

2. dada.

3. up

4. All done (aww done)

5. No. With the headshake and all.. ugh.

6. Landon (an-don) lucky kid! No if only he'd say Erin before she left for school...

7. apple

8. lawnmower (aw-mower)

9. Elmo

10. hot

11. baby (bebe)
12. ball (ba)
13. more

and the animal noises...

elephant. lion. tiger. bear. fish. sheep. bird. cow. puppy. horse. monkey

and last bragging..

he can point to his head, hair, eyes, ears, mouth, teeth, toes and belly button.

ok that's it! I just have to remember these wonderful moments.. :)

boy or girl?

2011-08-10T10:57:00.000-07:00

Let's start the vote on baby #2! I'm putting up the voting this on this blog.. I'm curious what ya'll think! I never say ya'll.. it just felt right though.

Luke and I really have no idea. Near the beginning, I thought girl because a few of my symptoms were different, but for some reason after the ultrasound, we are thinking boy! Neither one of us have a preference at all.. we're so excited for either!

Here's my feelings though.. I would obviously love a girl. What's not to love about those adorable clothes these days and just holding an itty-bitty gentle girl? But at the same time, a boy is the safe option. Meaning, I know what to expect with a boy. I have all the clothes (oh, so many)... the boys (ahh the boys!!) would share a room together when they're old enough and it would just be fun to have two brothers!

So, honestly, we don't have much of a pull either way! Thoughts??

I also haven't posted a belly picture in a while. This is just your standard, cheesy, take it myself in a mirror photo but you get the idea. 20 weeks!

mr. 17 months!

2011-08-10T10:50:00.000-07:00

Leyton recently made his way into 17 months! I have to say.. without sounding like that bragging mom.. I am loving this age! He is SO much fun lately and just hilarious! He is constantly learning new things and it seems like everyday I get to see something else he knows and can do. A few updates..

As of yesterday, he is transitioning to one nap during the day. This kid has a history of sleeping for hours! 11-12 hours at night and he was doing 2 naps during the day consistently. But just recently, his naps have been pretty inconsistent.. either the morning or afternoon will be really short or he just won't take it at all. So we switched to one and so far it's going great! I'm surprisingly loving my morning time with him. I was a little bummed at first to say goodbye to showers and having some alone time in the morning, but it's super fun. This morning's agenda was breakfast, hanging out, watching Cat in the Hat (he's obsessed), running to the bank and Starbucks (have to keep some bonus for mom!) and taking a nice long walk to the park to play for a bit. Head back, I get a quick shower while he plays and then we eat lunch. He is so cute and fun these days so I really am loving it!

He is talking quite a bit. Still rambling nonsense words all the time, and he's very passionate about it, he really thinks he's communicating. But his actual words list in still pretty much the same.. ball, Mom (love that one! and he said mommy today!), da-da, aww-done, apple.. I think that's it!

He's a champ at his animal noises, so funny. And getting better at different body parts. Again, I'm partial.. but he's a smart little sucker! I'm impressed easily.. the highlight of my day so far was Starbucks. ahh the life of a mom. :)

Oh, I like this one.. he also tells us when he poops but patting at his diaper. It's adorable :)

That's about it! Life is crazy around here.. hence the lack of posts. The closing on our house was pushed back to next week so until then we're just trying to get ready and spend as much money was we can! ugh.

Cabin Weekend

2011-08-05T07:51:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, we had the awesome privilege of crashing at the old O'Leary cabin for the weekend.. it's the wonderful, quaint cabin on McGregor Lake in northern Minnesota. We went last year with Steph and Kevin and had such a great time.. remember?

This year, all the siblings could make it so Steph and Kevin, Nate and Britt, Luke, Kristen and lil' Leyton made the trip up for the weekend. We had so much fun! Leyton woke up early everyday (sorry!) but was a champ at napping... the sun wore that kid out! We spent a lot of time cruising on the boat, laying out at the dock, crashing a beach, reading book (mmm) and just relaxing! It was wonderful.

This is an annual thing, right guys?

He loved these cowboy boots! He kept wanting them on and walked around clicking on the floor. This is hilarious throwing skills lately :)

Just love this picture!

chillin' on the boat..

spitting off the boat with dad.

thinking he's cool with the Coke..

Auntie Steph and Uncle Nate!

Britt and Nate

the girls!

the boys!

halfway point!

2011-08-03T08:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Luke and I had our 20 week ultrasound to check on how little baby #2 is growing and cookin' in my belly.. it is SO fun! We were talking on the way there, that it's even cooler this time around.. well, just in a different way. We know now that this little squirmy thing on the screen turns out to be a really live baby! A real live Leyton (of some form!)...

The baby is doing great and growing perfectly. When we saw it, it was swimming around, being quite active. It was laying breech, with its hands next to its feet, folded right in half. Reminds me of someone I know.. :)

We could have found out the gender, and it was a little bit tempting, having the ultrasound lady say that she knew! ahhh! For some reason, after yesterday, we're both leaning more toward boy.. but I really have NO idea! It drives a bit nuts, but I do love the suspense, waiting and guessing for this little thing!

Here's the cute baby!!

profile shot.

head and feet, right next to each other!

face. hard to see, but creepy skeleton looking face staring at us!

In week 20, the baby weighs about 10.5 ounces and is about 6.5 inches long, about the length of a banana. That's pretty long! It's swallowing more these days, to practice working on the digestive system. He/she is producing meconium.. good to know :) As our awesome doctor explained to us, it's developed all its parts by now (wow) but it needs to stay in there quite a bit longer to grow and grow. Not a problem, this thing is staying put and I will keep growing with you, bud! don't look into that, could be a girl "bud," right?

I'm not going to lie, I'm getting a little freaked out lately.. as the days and weeks creep along to the day I will become a mother of 2! That's a scary/exciting thought! holy cow..

that's all for now! oh small updates.. Brent and Suz are leaving Thursday (don't get me started, the tears will start flowing) and we get the keys to our house on Friday!! And more posts coming of great pics from our weekend cabin adventure.. here's a sneak..

have a wild Wednesday!

typical Tuesday

2011-07-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

Here's some hanging-around-the-house shots that are pretty standard these days. It usually involves eating (this kid eats a ton!) and wearing as few clothes as possible.

And.. just a mini-update on Leyton. He had his routine appointment the other day.. he's 26 lbs (90%) and 33" long (97%). He's always been our big boy!

feel like a big kid sitting at the table.. as long as he doesn't stand on it. That's a regular occurrence when I turn around for one second! He's nuts!

homeowners, once again!

2011-07-26T07:37:00.000-07:00

In other news in the Prosser family... we found a house!!

We're still figuring out details for a closing date but it's a done deal! although, I did have a dream last night that we didn't end up getting it. nightmare. I'm serious, I'm going to fall on the floor right inside the door when I turn that key to our house. It's been a looong time coming, whew..

The details: it's a house with four sides and a front door, in White Bear Lake. That'll do!

We're really excited about the house, the great neighborhood and this "new" town. We're not too familiar with the area, which is pretty fun! Can't wait to get to know the area and make it our home!

Here's a sneak peek of the place:

As the Canadians do..

2011-07-25T19:55:00.000-07:00

Life has been crazy lately! We didn't really have time to breath when we got back from our trip (which was a wonderful thing!) because Ryan and Lisa and kids came in town for the weekend... it was so fun! We went swimming one day and just hung out! I've said it a million times, but I love my family!

Leyton is growing and growing lately and seriously becoming such a little boy. That was also magnified because we were gone from him for a whole week and missed him like mad! Of course we loved our time together, but we definitely felt like a piece was missing and talked about him so much :) oooh buddy! We couldn't wait to get back and stared at him in his bed for a while.. he was pretty excited to see us too. maybe.

Here's a sample of our trip! In short, it involved a lot of long meals, sitting outside enjoying the scenery, beautiful European-type buildings, gelato breaks, coffee breaks, lots of walking, delicious crepes, delicious poutine, sleeping in and spending some great time with my Luke! Enjoy the pictures, with a few details along the way.

The first part of the trip was a gorgeous wedding (the whole reason we went!) It was SO fun to be a part of the events, see some friends and get the opportunity to photograph this epic event! You can see more photos on my photog blog here. It was beautiful! It was in a smaller town called Chicoutimi that was 2 hours north of Quebec City.

out to dinner with my man!

arrival in Quebec City.. first stop awesome hotel room and head straight out to try this Poutine! Verrry good.. imagine fries, cheese and gravy!

gorgeous buildings and views!!

18 weeks pregnant!

Old Town Quebec City..

amazing 2 hour lunch.. delicious bread, salad, and tea!

afternoon relaxation at the pool!

antique browsing.

mmmm...

so much delicious chocolate! pregnant girls dream!

FREE Cirque du Solei show in Quebec City, set up outside under a highway. It was SO cool and we were super close to the stage. quite a memory.

Quebec!

2011-07-13T08:48:00.000-07:00

We are off to this beautiful place bright and early tomorrow morning!

Just Luke and I will be busy conquering Quebec City for the next week! We will terribly miss our little boy but will greatly enjoy this time together, oh we miss our traveling. I have the awesome privilege of photographing the wedding of some Canadian friends of ours.. can't wait!

See you in a week! Vous voir dans une semaine!

haha, I know zero French.

poor boy.

2011-07-12T11:48:00.000-07:00

I have a feeling Leyton gets his tolerance for pain from his Mom... eek. My heart breaks for my little boy as he's been battling this teething game for a couple days. Ugh, this one is rough. All the symptoms are there.. fever, cranky, drooling allll over, chewing on everything, rough nights, and just being sad! He's so adorable though, it's hard not to laugh! He has this wimper that just breaks my heart! So, we've been a little preoccupied around here lately. I think we'll make it through... :)

little flutters

2011-07-05T12:19:00.000-07:00

This little party animal in my belly must have wanted to celebrate the 4th of July with us because "it" decided to kick for the first time last night! ahhhh it was so fun! I know, it's the little stuff.. but I was excited. :) And this is what happened with Leyton too, the first kicks I felt in my belly, Luke could feel on the outside too! He put his hand on my belly and felt that little avocado kick!

I know everyone says lots of things are different with #2, including the amount of focus we give to this little growing fetus. I'm too busy chasing Leyton to barely remember the new one sometimes! But when you feel those kicks.. oh man, just brings it all back again. It's so exciting, and extremely overwhelming at times. Thinking, "yesss I'm doing this all over again!" and... "dang. I'm doing this all over again." sheesh, here we go.. no turning back now!

I had an appointment today, the doctor found a very cute heart beat of 159. Can't wait to meet you, sweet thing!

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-05T12:13:00.000-07:00

Our weekend was definitely one to remember. Every second of it was pretty much wonderful! Here's a brief of list of all the fun we had:

- Ran through the sprinkler with Leyton and Luke on a realllly steamy 95 degree day.

- Ran errands with Luke, did some shopping (this is rare and super fun.)

- Went to the St. Paul Farmers Market with my mom and sister.

- Enjoyed a perfect sunny day at the Prosser pool, joined by my parents as well.

- Went on a couple bike rides and long walks in the beautiful weather.

- Went to the movie Super 8 with Luke. Again, super fun!

- Went to church & lunch with great friends.

- Watched the movie Charade with my parents. Great oldie!

- Enjoyed an amazing 4th of July with our family, including a quick and relaxing trip to Burns' pool (thank you!!)

- Devoured a few ice cream cones in downtown Stillwater

- Enjoyed the amazing fireworks in Stillwater with more great friends!

Like I said... wonderful!

both sets of grandparents!

farmers market with the girls!

love this squirmy boy!

pool photos

2011-06-30T14:21:00.000-07:00

We've been loving these hot summer days we've had lately! keep it coming!

Leyton with his "cousins"... Luke's cousins, so Leyton's 2nd, or once removed. or whatever.

remember last year?!? Oh, how he's changed!

the adventures of Leyton & Peyton

2011-06-30T14:17:00.000-07:00

I am so bummed to even say this.. but our dear friends, the Burns, just found out they are moving to San Jose! This means warm, sunny, beachy California gets to steal Suz, Brent, Peyton and brand new Jagger from us. not cool. but, super good career move, exciting for them. great hockey team. blah blah blah.

We have absolutely loved our friendship with this little family, and even though they are moving a crazy amount of miles away, I know our friendship won't go anywhere. I will just miss my time with Suz, our crazy stories of having baby #1 so close to each other and going through a lot of the same life changes together. We just recently managed to live closer to each other and now she's leaving me! Luke will so badly miss his guitar jam sessions, his painful workout adventures with Brent.. those late nights that Suz and I have to start warning the boys at least an hour before we really have to leave. And the girls get the awesome privilege to hearing them sing the same dang some all night.. a lot of times off tune (sorry!) And even though Leyton doesn't quite express it to me yet, I know he will miss Peyton! They were just starting to really understand that they are best friends.. he even kissed her today! Sorry Brent, first boy to make a move on your daughter..

Here's a sample of their adventures on this hot summer day!

look at Leyton's naughty face.. this is pre- grabbing her off the car. geez Leyton, that's not showing you love her!

checking out the dogs. (Easton's mom and dad!)

nice awkward hug buddy!

rejection.

and, as soon as they sit down.. they're off again!

and here's sweet Peyton with her new bubba!

We love you guys and will miss you like crazy!!

15 weeks & 15 months

2011-06-27T11:58:00.000-07:00

Leyton is coasting along, flying through his 15th month in this world and the newest baby is making some major progress at week 15 in the belly!

The little thing is almost 4 inches long and weighs about 2.5 ounces.. about the size of an apple! The lungs are developing and the legs are growing longer than the arms and it can move all its limbs and joints! Although the eyelids and still fused shut, it can sense light from outside the belly. Taste buds are forming too!

I definitely have a belly! It's still in that awkward stage that probably just looks like I ate too much Chipotle.. and I probably did that too. I'm still in my normal clothes but have busted out a couple maternity items just to make myself more comfortable. I really do love this growing belly of mine! Other than that, things are normal and great.. oh, I do crave a lot of sweets and chocolate! although I don't know if that's anything unusual.

until next time.

dear Leyton

2011-06-27T11:50:00.000-07:00

to my little man,

I've been having one of those moments lately where I just want to freeze every second and remember it all. You are at such a fun stage these days, I just wish I could stop time and stay here for a little while. It's all so fun, but these are a couple highlights these days that I never want to forget.

The other day, you went down for a nap when the tornado alarm went off outside your window. It was so loud, so I went to check on you. Oh little buddy, you were scared! As soon as I picked you up, you gave me the biggest bear hug I've ever gotten.. wrapped your legs and arms around me and didn't let go for a while. I loved every second of it!

Yesterday, you were hanging out with daddy and I around the house (well, grandpa & grandma's house). You sat on your dad's lap at the piano and it was hilarious! you banged on the keys, and "sang!" We left you like that for a bit, because you just seemed to be in your own little world. You would play some of the keys, stop, sing for a bit. I know it's just a little moment, but we loved it. And maybe you've got some musical skills in you! if you're anything like your dad... :)

Last night, we went on a bike ride and to a park close by. You were so intrigued by a couple boys that were playing catch. You went over the play with them and kept chasing the ball. They were so nice to play with you and would hand you the ball but you'd just run with it! One of the little girls said, "maybe he'll be a football player!" You had so much fun and didn't want to stop. Before we left, they gave you the ball to keep. This was one of those times when I have to pinch myself and remember that you're only one!

I really want to remember this stage when you yap and yap all the time! You're not really saying anything, although a couple words come out every once in a while. But you sure think you're saying stuff! You have so many expressions and just move that mouth all the time. I had a feeling you'd be a little social guy.. if you're anything like your mom & dad :)

We love you little buddy and wouldn't change a thing about you!

love, your mom.

summer days

2011-06-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

I feel like we've had such a weird summer so far.. weather-wise. Mostly nothing to brag about here in Minnesota, but the occasional perfect days are just that.. perfect! Yesterday was one of those days. It just makes me so happy to be a mom and be able to spend time with my little man.

In the morning, we went to a music class in Woodbury. My friend Suz gave me the idea and she has been going when she can with Miss Peyton. It was so fun! Leyton really enjoyed it. He definitely has a shy side to him but once he warmed up, he was dancing all over to the music with the other kids. So adorable!

Then Luke, Leyton and I went to Como Zoo in the afternoon with my grandparents and parents. We went with Leyton last summer when he was barely born and he just didn't appreciate it :) This year, he was loving the animals! Freaking out and yelling at all of them! Here's some highlights from our fun afternoon together:

exploring the fishies and the smelling the flowers with grandpa.

oooh! monkeys!

loving the train! until it started moving... so I guess he likes still trains. :)

houses and babies.

2011-06-20T11:56:00.000-07:00

This weekend was quite eventful in the life of the Prossers. First and most importantly.. our friends Brent and Suz had a baby BOY! We went to see them in the hospital on Saturday night, but we left after midnight thinking that it was still going to be a while! But, after 2 am, Mr. Jagger Burns made his appearance into the world! This has been a long process especially for Suz, so everyone is just thrilled that he is finally here and they are doing great!!

Now to back up, on Friday afternoon, Luke and I went and looked at more houses. We saw about 5, and one we particularly liked! Gosh it just makes me nervous, this whole house thing! After seeing these, Luke took me to dinner in Stillwater to just be together. ahhh that was great. I love my Luke time :) And it was good to just talk about where we are at with this crazy house decision!

Saturday, I had a wedding. nothing new there. (but it was a friend of mine and the wedding was beautiful!)

Sunday, we had a great family day enjoying Luke's semi-new fatherhood. Leyton is an expert shopper and picked up on his dad's hints at some new grilling gear. So, he's stocked up :) We got a chance to see both of our dads and both families! Everyone met us at this new potential house so we could get their opinion. ahhh it really does make me nuts!

Sooo.. we'll see. Luke and I are really excited about this option for a house and are still talking it over. I'll keep you posted on it all!

mini update.

2011-06-14T13:33:00.000-07:00

This sunny Tuesday brought us two updates worth mentioning: one really good and one... kinda bad. The good first. I had another baby appointment today! Met my doctor (she's wonderful.. thanks Watson!), and heard the little things rapid heartbeat. It's in the 150s right now.. so cute, but doesn't mean much for the gender guessing game. When they're this little, they all beat at around the same pace. But it's so fun to hear that little life in there! Everything is going great so far.. I haven't gained much weight this time around! not as much at this time last round. woo hoo victory for me!

And onto the not-so-good news. As many of you may know, we put in an offer on a house in Woodbury that we were pretty psyched about. It was a great house for the price, which fit right in with what we wanted to spend. Lots of room, nice big kitchen, great location. So we were excited but we knew it was a risk! All along Luke has been so great about reminding me that if God wants us to get this house, we will get it! And if he doesn't, He has a much better plan for us than we can see. I love resting in Him and trusting His will for our lives.. he knows way better than we do!

I would love to be Leyton right now. This guy could care less and is loving life! That's the way it should be!

Julie's baby girl!

2011-06-09T19:55:00.000-07:00

My friend Julie had a GIRL!!! Meet Taylor Brynn, the missing link to that now complete family!

I was so excited to meet this sweet girl last weekend.. the family is doing great.. Ryder & Gunner are such great older brothers!

2 growing babies

2011-06-08T18:30:00.000-07:00

Leyton will remain my baby until the other one comes along.. So for now, I have 2 babies! This older, crazier more active baby has passed the 15 month mark. He's as fun as ever!

These days, he's talking a lot more.. or at least trying to. His words include: ball (ba), mom, dad, all done (ahhh du), oh no, truck (uck) and apple (appa).. not sure why he picked apple but he must love them! He's still working through his animal noises and definitely vary on what he feels like saying day to day. You can really see his little brain working and he understands a ton. He knows when we say.. get your shoes, your socks, your diaper, your juice.. all that kind of stuff. Smart boy!

Here's a couple videos to show some firsts for this boy..

Hockey must be his blood! This is a daily activity, he keeps going for a while.. Look at him work so hard!

I'm not sure whether this can be considered his first summer-sault, but he's lovin it! :)

In other news, baby #2 is cookin along at 12 weeks! This cute little thing is working on its reflexes. The fingers can open and close, its curling its toes and the mouth is starting to make sucking movements. The intestines and kidneys have found their place and the nerve cells in the brain are multiplying rapidly. It's the size of a lime.. or a little bigger that its brothers hand!

I couldn't be more proud of my babies!

new & different

2011-06-08T18:12:00.000-07:00

This time around.. these are the things that are different so far:

1. Not nearly as much face breakouts! With Leyton, they were horrrrible and showed up right away! This time, not so bad!

2. I feel really great! With the first pregnancy, I felt pretty junky a lot of the time, just nauseous and sick. And I had really bad headaches, one that sent me to the emergency room. This time, no headaches! I do feel a little yucky at times, and need to keep the food coming (no complaints there!) but I do feel better this time around.

3. The belly popped way earlier! It felt like with Leyton, I "filled out" all over first and then eventually the belly came.. I went through the awkward stage for too long. ick. But this time, it popped at about 11 weeks. Starting even at 9 weeks, my belly fluctuated quite a bit. In the mornings, it was pretty flat. But by the end of the day, it would stick out! I do remember this happening the first time around too, but now it's just out there all the time! :) The bella band came out of hiding a day before week 12! I do like this change though.. it makes it so real that I really am pregnant and there is a growing baby in there!

And things that are the same:

1. Everything smell so strong! This was hint #1 with Leyton, I'd open up cupboards and it smelled horrible. Same with this one, things smell horrible.. or really good.. but just so strong! Sometimes I really can't even handle looking at Leyton's baby food..

2. I'm freaked out.

3. I'm so in love with this baby!

Baby Prosser #2!!

2011-06-06T19:29:00.000-07:00

It's true, It's true! We're doing this crazy thing again! Luke and I are SO thrilled to be announcing a second little Prosser babe will arrive somewhere around December 19, 2011. There's been such a mix of emotions through all this, but overall.. so excited!

Today I just began week 12 in this pregnancy. We've known for about 8 weeks now, so I'm going to playing a lot of catch up! It's so fun to go back and read through when this blog began, all in honor of baby #1 and all the adventures that were to come. It's a great chance for me to express my emotions, my fears, my excitements.. and to have a way to remember it all! So hope you don't mind as I backtrack a little, document a little about these past 8 weeks.

So, to jump in...on April 9th.. I woke up and took a pregnancy test! It was kind of random that I took it and I didn't really think it'd be positive, but I thought I'd check! Sure enough, those 2 glorious blue lines came up and I freaked out!!! I totally remember my reaction the first pregnancy, it was so fun! This time, I wondered if I wouldn't freak out as much.. just think "oh cool, I'm pregnant again." but I was thrilled!! It's fun that it was a little shock/surprising but.. wonderful! I ran upstairs where Luke was having breakfast with Leyton (oh.. yes, we still live with my parents. oops).. but I ran up and said, "2 lines! There are 2 lines!" I don't really know if he understood right away what that meant, but when it clicked, he was so excited! We had to keep our freaking out a little quiet because my parents were upstairs and didn't want to share the news quite yet, but it was so fun!

My sister happened to be in town that weekend, so I went up to her room, jumped in bed with her and whispered, "I'm pregnant!" She screamed and said "I knew it!" I love her :) We went to tell Steph and Kevin (more tears!) and made calls to our siblings out of state. It was funny to say so casually to our parents "Oh, Leyton's going to be an older brother." Haha, they had no idea! Over the next couple of days, we had so much fun telling our families and a few friends the great news. Everyone was so excited!

We used this line a few times to surprise some friends: I showed them this t-shirt design and told them we had just ordered this for Leyton. It took a couple seconds of confused looks then they got it!

But then was the waiting game. I had no idea when my due date was so I scheduled an appointment when I thought I'd be around 8 weeks. I had to wait about a month to go to the doctor! It's kinda weird when you don't have a belly, didn't really have any symptoms of being pregnant and haven't been able to see the baby! It just didn't feel real. It was fun to tell a few people, but it just felt fake.

So after waiting for what seemed like a year.. on May 16th, Luke and I went to the doctors and got to see the little baby! We had an ultrasound to check on the baby, measure it and get a due date. At that point, they told me I was 9 weeks and the baby was doing great! With Leyton, we only had a 20 week ultrasound because everything was normal and there was no reason to do another. But to see this cute little thing at 9 weeks old was incredible!!! Just amazing! It was an inch long and had developed all the essential body parts. The heart had divided into 2 chambers, valves had formed, as well as tiny teeth. (seriously? the tears are flowing right now even thinking about it!) The baby's organs, muscles and nerves were kicking into gear.. eyes are formed, as well earlobes, a mouth, nose and nostrils. Oh!!

We were absolutely floored. I started crying right away as this little one inch gummy bear was moving across the screen, waving its arm. Something crazy happens when you see this little life, this baby, this child growing inside. And I think it's even crazier the 2nd time around. When it's the first, it almost seemed more mysterious.. I kept thinking, that's my baby? And this time to think.. that's what Leyton was! Leyton has my favorite nose in the whole world and that was there at 9 weeks?! This little creature becomes a real, moving baby.. our child. Incredible. So without further adieu, I'd like you to meet baby Prosser #2!

So there's ya go.. that's my feelings! We are loving every bit of this.. even the little pouch that decided to debut itself this past week! I will share much more about all these changes and what's been going on this time around. Here we go again!

ode to Luke

2011-05-31T12:28:00.000-07:00

My darling husband is officially 28 years old! We had a wonderful birthday week/weekend celebrating Luke. He's used to it by now.. I can't not make a big deal out of birthdays. I just can't. It was a perfect weekend of spending time with just Luke and I (late night movie, shopping, eating lunch outside at D'Amicos, mid-afternoon matinee on a rainy day..) then we reunited with our little guy at the Prossers house.. biked, swam and enjoying the mix of nice weather that we had. Luke got lots of great presents, including tons of new clothes and a magic trick! (oooh)

On a bit of a mushy, sentimental note.. I love my husband! I am SO stinkin proud of him and how he has taken care of our family. He is an incredible dad to Leyton and Leyton just adores him! I am so lucky that he chose me and that I have him for my best friend all these years later. I remember the bleached blonde, curly haired drummer with skater shoes and hemp necklaces.. and that man hasn't changed a bit! Just looks a little different. better, if you ask me.

Also, this news is coming a couple weeks late but... he got the job! As some of you may know, he got a job at Olive & Co. in Minneapolis but initially given more of a temporary job before it was made permanent. I don't know if that makes sense to the rest of the world.. but the good news is.. he got it! Which officially starts our house hunting! (haven't decided if that's good news, house hunting is a bit of an emotional thing!)

Here's some photos from our weekend..

oh my funny boy!

the biking crew.

chair & a doll

2011-05-25T11:42:00.000-07:00

This was our day yesterday. I wanted to use my little guy as a model and try out a new chair I got for photo shoots. It's cute huh? Then, we headed to the park and Leyton found a lost doll at the bottom of the slide. He wouldn't let this thing go! Not exactly being so gentle with it, but it was cute! Happy Wednesday!

Iowa bound

2011-05-23T13:27:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, the whole Kirkpatrick clan met up with Des Moines and it was wonderful! I've probably said this plenty of times, but I love my family and ~~hate~~... do not like that we live so far away! Over the weekend, Nathan & Chrissie (and brand new Delaney!) came in and we stayed at Ryan & Lisa's place in Ankeny. My parents, Luke and I and Tyler and Erin came down from Minnesota. There's 4 grandkids now, with the latest additions of Delaney and Jude.. it was just great to get them all together. Leyton was really good with the little ones.. he was pretty gentle! (do I sound surprised?) It's also funny because when Leyton was born, cousin Landon seemed so big.. but now they're really catching up and running around together!

look at the cousins! the cute little ones and the naughty ones.. Leyton was extra naughty during this moment. goodness.

love my boy!

you can tell they're best friends :)

Ryan and Luke and their boys! Like father, like son, huh?

now this was fun. More for Landon than Leyton. Landon is crazy on this thing!

just one of my sisters!

as you can tell, a regular occurrence. Landon kept saying, "come on Yeyton!"

nice.

then, we found a turtle. the boys chased the turtle.

Landon threw rocks at the turtle.

more turtle chasing.

just a really cool pictures. nice job Tyler!

the whole crew! We love all of you and loved spending the short time we could together! Until next time!

little boy rooms.

2011-05-18T12:08:00.000-07:00

As if I needed something else to sit and dream about on these beautiful, sunny days.. I found this wonderful treasure and can't help myself but dream! It's all a bit expensive, but hopefully I can find ways to piece it together for cheaper. Loving this room for my big boy!

love the colors, the beachy feel, the added touches. so fun!

our weekend.

2011-05-17T13:09:00.000-07:00

We had another great weekend! Sadly, this one didn't involve much of Leyton.. but also not sadly, it involved a lot of just Luke and I! It was the long awaited wedding weekend of my friend Mary.. oh we've been waiting! Mary is a dear friend of mine from high school and I had the privilege of photographing her wedding. The events were as follows: Twins game Friday night after a great rehearsal/dinner!

Saturday was the big day. I have more pictures on my photography blog, so visit it! It was a bit of rainy, cold day which I was a bit bummed about.. but it didn't hinder the day from being absolutely perfect. It was such a fun, joyous day full of great photo ops, a beautiful bride, unique touches added to the wedding.. catching up with old friends and just enjoying the day! My dad also officiated the ceremony, making it extra special :) (oooh I love my dad!)

The weekend ended on a perfect note when Luke and I had stayed downtown at a hotel. Just being together, sleeping in!! getting breakfast, browsing the Minneapolis Farmers Market. I turned to him once and said, "just so you know.. my heart is full." It's the small stuff right??

I'm SO thrilled for Mary & Justin and that we were able to be a part of their celebration! They make a perfect couple and I love living close to them! Thanks for helping make it a great weekend :)

day at the park

2011-05-12T12:37:00.000-07:00

Leyton would live outside if we let him! He can't get enough of it.. loves the kids, the sand, the swings, climbing on stuff. Here's a lot of our day yesterday! My little man is growing up so stinkin fast!

picking flowers for mom.. a very important skill to learn.

this face cracks me up soooo much! He was getting mad at me..

master of the sandbox

life these days!

2011-05-11T08:35:00.000-07:00

I love this stage of life I'm at right now.. It's baby news all the time! I feel like every time I get on facebook, there's a new annoucement! So, yesterday.. I leave my phone inside for about an hour while Leyton and I are playing at the park and I come back to this news:

I get a text from Al: They found out what they are having! Darren & Al will meet their baby GIRL late October. Ooooh can't wait!

Oh beautiful Al!

I have a message from my friend Julie in Iowa: Her baby is supposed to come by C-section in a couple weeks, but she's been contracting and headed to the hospital. Maybe a baby tonight? ps. this is their last baby and they don't know what they are having. girl??

with Mr. Ryder!

And.. I've been getting updates from my dear friend Suz, who is in the hospital on bed rest at 30 weeks with her second baby! We are constantly praying for the baby to keep growing, stay cooking in her belly and for Suz's health with all the medicine and contracting. ugh. And for her little girl, Peyton at home with grandma!

Suz!!

So much exciting news these days.. Praying for all my dear friends and these sweet new additions!

B

2011-05-10T17:11:00.000-07:00

and... hello to Grandpa B, who keeps me honest about this blog :)
Leyton loves you and already misses you!