The Tenant Sea

Grandma Shirley's pictures of Viv's 1st 1st birthday

2010-04-19T11:35:00.000-07:00

It's the 1st 1st birthday because there will be a 2nd 1st birthday as well. One more for the next visiting Grandma. We figure, she doesn't know the exact date she was born yet, so no harm no foul -- we'll have the birthdays in the same month when family's in town.

On to the pictures, all taken by Grandma Shirley.

Birthday onsie from Grandma Shirley!

Amidst the presents, a very intent child.

Our girl having a good time.

A lovely photo of one of babycake's favorite activities, window gazing. Actually it is of two of her favorite activities, window gazing and stair climbing. I love the light and mood of this one.

Enjoy celebrating milestones,

Bp

Poopy pants on roof rack

2010-04-16T19:09:00.000-07:00

I know, we've been severely remiss posting here. Facebook has been where a lot of bebeh posting action's happening. We'll fix that.

As for the picture: Yes, those are baby pants. Yes, that's a Subaru roof rack. Yes, that's electrical tape.

They were bad. Seriously. We got home safe.

Enjoy springtime,

Bp

Photos from beginning of February

2010-02-09T19:53:00.000-08:00

Ok, we've had some gentle and not so gentle nudges from the Grandmas to get more visuals up on the site. Here we go.

Also, as unglamorous as it is, The Wife has set the time/date stamp on the phone to make sure that info is in the pictures. There is some small controversy about this, but photoshop in skilled hands can fix this easily.

Some photos from the beginning of February:

First, a picture of little miss "up on my knees." She loves to crawl up to things, pull up to her knees, then sit down like a good little tea ceremony participant and do whatever she came there to do. Normally, wreak havoc.

Katye found a tryptich of photos of a newly-crawling baby over at one of her favorite mommy blogs Girls Gone Child. Baby looks up at photographer, baby crawling away, baby's feet just make the last shot. She tried a few times, but could only get a dyptich due to Viv's speed and our camera's not-speed. Cute nonetheless.

The Crackberry is one of the most favored toys in the whole house. Keys are a pretty close second, but they don't blink and flash when you push on them. Unless the car is real close, then it can get super exciting.

And an interestingly different take on the same position:

Pensive? Tired? (a bit rheummy-eyed, could definitely be tired):

There we go Grandmas, a little Vitamin V for ya,

Bp

Little girl is changing fast, keep up!

2010-01-10T23:52:00.000-08:00

Again a slew of pictures from Auntie Kate. Apparently, little miss "I love electronics" is mobile enough now that when a camera is brought to her level she scoots right over there. Thus all the face close-ups. But it doesn't get much cuter than those types of pictures, so I'm not complaining.

Boris is pretty damned patient and interactive with the bebeh, I must say.

Finally some good "many moods of Vivian" pictures:

There ya go, more fodder for your screen savers ladies,

Bp

Tons of cuteness, more moving pictures

2010-01-06T21:42:00.000-08:00

These were all taken yesterday by the sterling Canukistani Kate. Viv is still mugging for the camera, so Kate figured out that just turning the camera on would get her to crawl forward. Flashy lights = perfect bait.

I'm not holding back, you're getting all of them. Brace yourself for a cute apocalypse.

There ya go, enough Viv to last a while yet.

(Yes Povi, we will get photos up too, I know you need a re-up on your screen saver)

Bp

Kind-of crawling caught on tape, plus some waving

2009-12-23T15:50:00.001-08:00

Hey, crawling and waving is big news. Here is the video I took earlier this morning especially for the Grandmas out there feeling the Holiday/Family confluence needs.

And the commentary off the flickr page:

Just trying to capture some of the early attempts and signs of crawling. I really believe we have little time left before she's scooting all over the house. Wanted to get this video shot and posted before she was full-tilt-boogie.

For the Grandmas, for X-mas.

Enjoy moving pictures on the holidays,

Bp

Epic nap and book reading

2009-12-10T22:26:00.000-08:00

Title says it all!

She's been getting into the little books we have for her lately. Last night I was reading Sheep in a Jeep to her (Thanks Auntie Kate!!) and she was turning the pages at the appropriate time. This was freaking out Brandon...kind of hilarious.

Pretty good read, I highly suggest it.

And then papa caught an epic nap on camera that was just too cute to not post.

Awesome!

There are more pictures on Flickr if you want to go and see!!

xxoo KT

My how time flies...

2009-12-09T21:16:00.000-08:00

[DUE TO HUSBAND...RESIZED FOR YOUR PROTECTION]

So it's been a coons age since I posted anything here. It feels like millions of years have passed and then just mere seconds at the same time. I can't believe I have an 8 month old daughter when I was just newly pregnant a few days ago! That thing they say about time, it's true. It flies. I get it now. I can mark the march of my days forward in the bite sized milestones of another month under the baby's belt.

Here she is in what our friend Angie refers to as "her office". It's a big horrible lump of plastic and she loves it. GAH! We don't put her in it very often but boy, she gets a lot of mileage out of the time when she's there. Dealing with the Sun on a stick employee that is far to happy or putting Mr. Turtle-noisy-thing in his place are daily chores.

The Bear-mirror usually gets a talking too as well...

My sweet little girl is growing ever upward and onward. We're into the realm of 4 teeth now, two on the top and 2 on the bottom. She's putting them in place at an alarming rate. The nursing has been pretty status quo though I can feel the teeth when she nurses to sleep. There have been no chompings and I expect to keep it that way. I also expect to keep nursing for as long as she'll let me. She's a big, robust one, she is.

And such a patient child. She travels well, puts up with being hauled up to Redwind often, being outside for hours often, having a group of folks over every Friday night to game. She's a very gregarious child. Quick to smile and very into waving when you walk into the room and when you leave. A charmer, for sure.

We've also introduced a few weeks of swimming classes. It's sort of just "get in the pool" classes and it's a bit chilly but she's a trooper. I suspect we'll be doing more of that as she gets older since I want her to be able to swim like a fish and because she's an intensely physical child. Active at scooting around, grabbing, wanting to be held often, smacking on things...all of these things are just beginning to ramp up, I suspect.

She's also just finally figured out the stuff we've been putting in her mouth for the last month. Oh yeah, squash monster is in the house! She's also started sitting up in the highchairs when we go to restaurants! And man does she enjoy water. Just a little bit in her small plastic cup I overed from an event I was at (it's perfectly Vivian sized!) and she's thrilled! She get's some after every meal and it's really the highlight. That and the pears...those are a big hit too.

So time is marching on. I am just getting back into the swing of the digital camera and will endevour to post more pictures both here and on Facebook. I return to work full time in January and am gearing up to start studying again for my tests so we'll see how much free time I have. All of it will go to BP and Viv, I'm sure.

What's not to love?

Happy holidays if we don't get to see you! I'll take more pictures of the baby when it snows, as it inevitably will!

Katye

Firsts, teeth and highchair

2009-11-29T12:41:00.001-08:00

Hello all.

So, Ms. Viv is working on her 4th tooth. They are very elusive to photograph, but our friend Kate (or Shady, or Canukistani Kate) has pulled it off. First, here are some teeth [remember, you can click the picture for a larger version]:

Another photo just because it came out well. There are very few electronic thingies in Viv's world, so anything that beeps or lights up is majorly exciting. In this case, it's the baby monitor.

And lastly -- Vivian sitting in a restaurant high chair for the first time. We went out to our favorite Indian Buffet (Namaste, there's one on 82nd and Sandy now!) and decided to give the chair a try.

Lots of love to the Viv fans out there,

Bp

Saturday Morning Video -- sitting up

2009-11-14T09:08:00.000-08:00

Good morning folks!

Here is a nice long video of Ms. Viv sitting up and basically just hanging out on a Saturday morning.

New developmental landmarks:

Two teeth showing in her lower jaw (one on the side is coming in too, we suspect).

Sitting up nice and solidly now.

Actually eating a bit of food, instead of just mouthing and spitting out. (Yesterday, butternut squash)

New sounds, which of course didn't make it onto the video because the little black shiny thing was present which stops all novel activity.

On to the video!

11/14/09 Saturday Morning Sit Up

We thought a nice long video of Ms. Viv was appropriate this morning. Nothing crazy going on, just life -- cheeks, some verbalizations.

Enjoy moving picture updates,

Bp

[Note to self: Flickr cuts off video at 1:30 -- important information]

Grandmas, and Pears!

2009-11-02T21:06:00.000-08:00

Two Grandma birthdays today -- what are the odds? So, I decided it was way way past time to load up the blog with a bunch of hot-off-the-presses baby photos.

We have a new camera, and the photos will now flow again. Thanks for your patience.

On to the pics:

So, first week of experimenting with solid food. We switched from butternut squash to pears (steamed) today. As you can tell by the look on her face here, this eating solid foods thing is new -- and... scary? Uncomfortable?

Ok so maybe not THAT bad after all eh?

Messy face, but cute nonetheless.

I love this look. It's beyond me to describe or interpret it -- but I love it.

"Here, let me get that"

"This substance... it intrigues me."

Ahhh, no more feeding.

My daughter doesn't look like this --- but.

Really, I don't know how I got her to look this way, low camera angle, big meal, ... she looks like a mob Kingpin. I had to post it.

Maybe this is her "'Das Riiight" look.

Happy Birthday Nana Povi and Nana Carol!

Enjoy change,

Bp

Grandma Shirley Vivian Pictures, Oct. 12th

2009-10-15T12:25:00.000-07:00

Holy crap it's been a month since we last posted here. Sorry folks, we're working on it honest. We're a patch cord away from being up with our new (graciously gifted -- thanks Mr. Pitts!) camera.

Grandma Shirley is visiting right now, and came bearing gifts. I'll get right to the pictures:

10/12/09 Viv in her chair

Vivian loves this chair. It came graciously via our neighbors, and is called a Prince Lionheart Bebe Pod. She loves the ability to sit up and be on her own. It holds her in wonderfully well, and is supposed to be really good for her muscular and neuro development. She also likes drumming on the little foam pad-thing in the middle. It's been great.

10/12/09 Viv's Toy Chest

Grandma Shirley, my sister Tammy and step-dad RJ all worked on this toy chest for Vivian. Mom delivered it on this trip. It's customized with not only snazzy paint and murals, but has a pinch-proof gap cut into the front and a nice hinge that will keep it from slamming up or down. It's going to be a real treasure.

10/12/09 Viv's toy chest - side bee

10/12/09 Viv's toy chest - side

10/12/09 Viv and Boris1

Mom got these pictures of Vivian and Boris sharing a cubey toy. Boris is going to be "that cat" for Vivian, I suspect. I predict being dragged around unceremoniously, and playing dress-up in his future.

10/12/09 Viv and Boris2

10/12/09 Viv and Boris3

10/12/09 Viv and Boris4

There ya go people, sorry to starve out the Vivian Fan Club for a full month, we'll endeavor to do better in the future,

Bp

Israel's pictures from Last Weekend (12th of Sept.)

2009-09-14T17:15:00.000-07:00

Before we get fired by our parents, I thought we'd better get a post up.

Relying on other people's cameras, but got ya'll pictures nonetheless. Our dear friends Israel and Rachel visited last weekend, and Israel took some great photos of the kiddo. He's a photographer, so I aught to have expected that these would turn out well.

Instead of trying to interpolate comments I'll just say that that's Mr. Pitts a day back from West Africa looking very suave and debonair. Little Missy is teething, so you can see that lots of things are ending up in her mouth. And, as for Boris the Kitteh -- the distinction between baby toys and baby kitty toys is very very blurry.

Enjoy the writers of this blog getting off their keisters,

Bp

Time keeps on moving - Viv at almost 5 months!

2009-08-31T08:19:00.000-07:00

Time flies when you don't have a camera! It's been a busy summer. We've been blueberry picking and canning. Just had our first big crop of tomatoes come in and did some putting up yesterday in between nap times.

We also added another little animal to our ever increasing brood...a kitten currently being called Ace. Name pending. He's a frisky, sweet, lovable little guy that we hope will fill the void left by Wapiti's passing for Jane. Jane just hasn't had anyone to play with and is bugging the old lady cat, Sula, who wants nothing to do with her. Enter Ace...let the tear-assing around the house begin! He is also going to be quite the companion for Tait...who is also nursing a sore heart from the passing of all boy cats this last year (RIP Pootie and Wapiti), tho he wouldn't tell you that.

In Vivland, I am continually amazed at how the child I put to bed the night before is a new and improved one the next morning. Smiles are abundant and come easily. She's gotten into the habit of smiling at strangers FIRST and then being shy / coy.

And somehow she's getting cuter, I wasn't sure that was possible.

Of course, I just sit around and drink tea all day, taking credit for having such a cute kid. Photographic evidence doesn't lie! HA!

There are signs that crawling is eminent. Tummy time happens on and off for most of the day. She's very alert and interested in her surroundings and especially anything that she can grab. This new found skill is becoming mighty unpopular with the long haired crowd we run around with. Several detanglings have already occurred.

All in all she's a champ and a trooper. She's really gotten comfortable in the car seat and being dragged around all over hell and gone, as our lifestyle dictates.

AND still skeptial of it all...good girl. She's got a good head on her shoulders. And I'm lucky to have her.

We're working on getting a new camera (with all the money falling from the sky) so bear with us folks...until then, thanks much to Shady Kate for spending Saturdays with Ms. Viv and I. She's been taking many a photograph of the bunny.

Camera, new flooring of some sort AND my CPA test prep program are the big purchases we'll somehow manage by the end of the year! That way she can crawl on something nice, we can photograph it and she can be proud of her mama finally kicking those tests and being done with all that nonsense! Some day!

Happy Monday!

Kt and Viv

Videos instead of photos -- Papa takes Viv to the Zoo

2009-08-28T15:56:00.000-07:00

Ok so since our camera doesn't work and needs replacing, I took the little flip video and made some talkies.

My friend Tony suggested we go to the zoo with Girlie before he lands a job (cross your fingers everyone) and isn't available for this type of week-time fun anymore. Here are the videos that I took.

8/25/09 Vivian's outfit for the zoo

This is what happens when the father is left alone to dress the daughter. I like the gangster hat, with the jaunty puffball on the top and the Lorax in the front. As for the bumblebee leggings -- stripes go with stripes, right?

Portland Zoo 8/25/09 Lorikeet Aviary

I think the Lorikeet Aviary was the highlight of this whole day at the Zoo. You can buy little dixie cups full of 'nectar' to feed the birds. The birds are outlandishly, garishly colored and really brash. They weren't wallflowers that's for sure. A number of times Tony and I would be talking, about 2' away from each other, and a Parrot would fly right through our line of vision, buffeting our faces on the way through. The people watching, or rather the kid-watching was the best.

8/25/09 Lorikeet aviary close up

Ok, so I haven't figured out how to flip the videos on my flipvideo. Sorry.

Anyway, here is a beautiful Lorikeet eating in the aviary.

8/25/09 Vivian watches a waterfall at the zoo

Again, with the sideways video -- sorry. Anyway, Viv had started to get fussy. And rightfully so, we had been at the zoo all day long, and just been through a cave full of (literally) screaming children. She had pretty much had it with us and this situation when we passed a little waterfall at the zoo and boom. Suddenly mesmerized and content. Note to self: the girl likes falling water.

Whups, almost forgot the last video -- the all important "baby passed out due to long day" video, featuring the beautiful wife and mama.

8/25/09 Vivian conked out from long day at Zoo

It was a long day at the zoo, and the kiddo was conked out. Figured it would be a good ending to this series.

There ya go Grandmas and other Vivian fans. Thanks for the patience, we endeavor to post way more often than this.

Love,

Bp, Kt, and Vv

Unscripted quiet moments with the Papa

2009-07-21T06:30:00.000-07:00

Mom caught a great moment with Papa that I didn't realize we had until I downloaded OUR camera (rather than relying on Mom's for the last month). I love these...

Enjoy your Tuesday!

KT

Ode to a baby carrier and soft blocks!

2009-07-20T10:27:00.001-07:00

So when we were visiting down in Sacramento, Debbie and the Z's dropped the bomb baby carrier on us. Great timing as we have been throwing our collective backs out carrying Babycakes in terribly un-ergonomic positions for a while now. The BBdr (the lovely and talented Sara Ohgushi) has indicated that the back pain will remain until Viv 4 or 5 months old and we can USE awesome baby carrier...so of course we had to try it out as soon as we got home!

Here is the EXTRA SEXY baby carrier (sadly not in blue...following Landis tradition) that Debbie and the Z's got us. Babycakes approves.

She's a bit small for it currently but we expect HUGE use from this one. It's great on the back and she seems to like it as well.

We also got a set of AMAZING soft, quilted blocks from Auntie Ruth with Vivian's name spelled out in individual letters. They have totally inspired me to make a set that are the whole ABC's...though it might be well into her college years before they get finished because they look like a crapload of work!

Awesome stuff!

Enjoy your Monday and your generous, creative relatives!

KT

2 week catchup

2009-07-17T09:35:00.000-07:00

To quote my mother "TIME FLIES HERE!!". Indeed! It's been a whirlwind couple of weeks. We just got back Monday from the trip to Sacramento (tm) with huge Landi in attendance. It was super fun and babycakes did exceptionally well with the airplane ride and general mayhem that the Landis clan can bring.

My mom, Nana Povi, got to cross pollinate with the huge Landis family for a couple of days and it was sweet to finally get both her and my brother to see this sweet group of folks.

Fun was had all around. Mom needs to upload her last few days of photo's to Flickr (HINT HINT) so that I can post photos that she took. I admit to slacking off on the photo taking since mom arrived (and left /weep) because she took approximatly 300 photos of her while visiting. I will compile a bunch from the Z's that took photos, lovely auntie Tammy and mom to get you all caught up on what she did over the weekend!

First we had the getting together part of the weekend. Here is BP, Grandpa Tim and Aunt Tammy.

Then straight on to baby holding for the family! Auntie Tammy is always a big hit with the BB.

Uncle Tom did pretty well too!

Then we were off to visit GREAT-Grandma...the real reason for hauling the kiddo down to Sac at such a young age. She's 86 and recovering from some leg issues but chipper as the day is long. A lovely lady!

And here is the 4 generation photo as promised!

For all the Landis's here's the obligatory "taking a picture of someone else taking a picture of you" photo we got out of the way early in the weekend. Thank you Grandpa Tim.

Then on to the Partying!!! Terry is always good for some weenies and a beer. He and Kris hosted a couple of days of backyard living and it was good I tell ya. Tony and Ruth's pad was given a rest after the first night.

Babycakes did a fair amount of sleeping in order to integrate the newness of the situation. She was a trooper tho!

She even got acquainted with the pool! Tammy is fearless with introducing Viv to new environments.

And Mom did a fair amount of baby holding and general enjoying of herself. Even Alice the dog got into the introductions!

And Uncle Andrew and Uncle Damien dropped by from SF to check out the baby and introduce her to their little dog too!

All in all an excellent visit.

I'll post more photos soon! Have a lovely Friday!

KT

The Many faces of Viv

2009-07-05T15:37:00.001-07:00

Headed out to the farmers market here today. Viv was a trooper as normal. Mom leaves for SF tomorrow then we all reunite on Friday for the Landis family gathering (tm) that is happening in Sac. Should be a good hot and sweaty time. We are looking forward to some pool time...bring on the swim diaper!

On to the snaps!

Viv at the farmers market...checking it all out.

When she has the ability to see...new sunhat...STAT!

Such a face!

She's been quite taken with her hands as of late. Once she catches them she tends to hold on to them tightly. It give her quite the contemplative look, don't you think!?

Enjoy your day!

KT

New photos on Flickr!

2009-06-30T17:09:00.001-07:00

Mom's getting artsy. We're off to Sundance for Wednesday night and Thursday. Will be home Thursday night after getting a blessing and seeing our peeps after the ceremony!

Then next week...SAC! The adventure never ceases!

Enjoy some rocking Viv photos!!

KT

Stephanie at work rocking the babychat skillz!

Great smiles with Nana!

Nana likes Tummy time way more than Viv does...ahah!!

Viv snoozing the night we were at Breightenbush.

Video: Talking up a storm

2009-06-29T10:09:00.000-07:00

This was on the 27th of June, cute as hell. Viv is working the vowels, apparently.

New Snaps from Mom

2009-06-24T14:07:00.000-07:00

So, Nana Povi (My mom) is visiting and getting GREAT snaps of the BB. She hunted and stalked the elusive smile and was triumphant! (see video below) She has been diligent at baby holding, cooing, wrangling, burping...pretty much putting all those long lost kid skills back to use.

We're off to Breightenbush hot springs tonight so I can assist with a sweatlodge and the BB can get some multiple hour car time. It'll be a first for a 3 hour trip in the car...I have big prayers out that it will be smooth, easy and uneventful!

Here are a few of mom's snaps I particularly like. We have more on flickr...if you want info on that get a hold of BP or myself.

The Many Faces of Vivian:

MAN can this kid get any cuter?

When the Z's and Deb where through town this weekend Zia got aproximatly 300 photos of Viv in 48 hours...so I expect there will be more good ones. I still have yet to see Auntie Tammy's awesome photos...I bet there are a lot of amazing ones. The couple black and white ones have made the rounds and are awesome!

Enjoy your Wednesday!

KT

Houston, We Have Smile, I repeat, We Have Smile

2009-06-22T12:05:00.000-07:00

Nana Povi devised a strategy to get a smile on video by holding the camera to the side and keeping the baby distracted from it and entertained. You can see when she turns, sees the camera, and gets all serious again. A look we are all now so familiar with. But grandma prevails and gets some good smiles and noises and bubbles on video.

Enjoy visiting relatives,

Bp

Father's day

2009-06-21T19:36:00.001-07:00

My first father's day, and I'm getting a flood of emails and phone calls and text messages -- many from the most random and heart-warming places.

Thanks ya'll.

Here's a picture my sister took, not necessarily glamor shot material for either one of us, but cool nonetheless.

Bp

First Dinner out and a few randoms

2009-06-17T06:30:00.000-07:00

Went to McMenamins with Ms. Tammy last night for a good beer and burger. They have Oregon country beef (free range with no nasties in it) and the best Hefewiesen (Wheat beer they call it) in town, in my opinion. Plus it's a funky, Deadhead decorated local joint that we love to support.

The BB did great in her first official outing to a dinner joint despite the fact it was early evening or the dreaded Sundowner baby fussy McFussypants time for Miss Viv. She is getting somewhat used to the car seat. This is good since we're going to be spending a lot of time in the car seat headed to Sac for crazy Landis family gathering in July.

On to the snaps!

6/15/09

Just chilling in the car seat. Gotta love the deadhead decorations. Sheesh, you should see the INSIDE!

Auntie Tammy making eyes at the BB...such a cutie. Both of them really!

6/14/09

More belly time later in the evening for Ms. Viv. This is mere MOMENTS before she rolled over for the first time. No repeat performance as of yet, but it's great incentive to get her more belly time! Plus, she looks like Walter Cronkite...an added bonus!

(as an aside...MOM (nana povi) comes tomorrow! We are excited!)

Enjoy your Wednesday!

KT

Nap bomb

2009-06-16T06:30:00.000-07:00

Auntie Tammy (BP's sister) is visiting from deep behind the Orange curtain. She's got quite the touch with the BB...lots of smiles from her and Viv was immediately comfortable and receptive with her. Nice to see the old girl knows family when she gets held by it!

So Tammy and I snuck off for a couple of hours to watch the Lakers kick the tar out of the Magic in the NBA finals and left Viv with BP. Apparently a nap bomb went off in the living room while we were gone. It effected both the baby and papa along with ALL 3 of the cats.

Uncle Tait, stalwart resister of the nap, was there to document the lack of action.

BP and Viv trying to not succumb to the powerful nap emissions being let off by Sula "the nap creator". She has such a powerful gravitational pull that she can suck everyone in a 2 room radius into a semi-conscious state in under 10 minutes. Add a sunbeam in the room and ya'll are DONE FOR!

View the documented power of the cat!

She looks so innocent wielding her power!

Even the other cats cannot resist the power of the Napinator!

Enjoy the supernatural powers of your (pseudo) domesticated animals,

KT

Auntie Tammy visits and we clip nails

2009-06-15T06:30:00.001-07:00

So BP's sister arrived Saturday to get down to some serious baby holding. She's born to hold babies and works with children with disabilities so she's a saint to boot. Viv took an immediate liking to her (as well she should).

More photo's as the week progresses with Auntie Tammy. Here are the first few.

When Auntie Tammy arrived Viv had just dropped off for a nap. Undaunted, Auntie Tammy jumped right in with some expert baby holding.

Viv, a staunch sleeper, is actually soaking up the "being held while sleeping" vibes that Tammy is putting off.

Close up of the BB in full respite.

I also got the chance to get Viv's nails clipped (SCARY!!!) later that evening. Everyone thought it was hilarious that I was wearing my headlamp in order to see but I'll not have her blood on my hands if I clipped her little finger off! Safety first!

Later in the evening Viv passed out enough to stop wiggling in her sleep and I got some valuable nail clipping done. With the help of baby-crazy Dr. Octagon (one of BP's old study buddies who was over for a little BBQ) we got the job done. Notice the headlamp worn by the mama for precision cutting.

KT

First roll over

2009-06-14T22:22:00.001-07:00

At 10:22 on June 14, Viv just rolled over by herself. Holy crap!

Auntie Tammy has been greatly influential in this! YA!

Go Viv!

Belly time!!

2009-06-11T06:30:00.000-07:00

We're starting a concerted campaign to have Miss Viv get more belly time. She spends a good deal of belly time ON folks, but I think she needs a bit more on the ground time if she's going to get to turning over any day now.

She's pretty strong in the kicking and pushing up arena's and I'm amazed how strong her neck is. While she doesn't like belly time much at the moment I suspect it will become a favorite once she gets all the parts working together and can CRAWL! *cue ominous music*

6/9/09

Things start out well during belly time. She's a strong little sucker!

Then you have to rest a bit.

And we're back at it! Go Viv!

This is one of my favorite pictures. I like the "eeeewww! I can't touch this" look on her face!

And then we're over it. This is her official "Over it" face. A crack up. Can't you see Brandon in this little girl!?

As an aside...the cat's really like the bouncy chair too. This one goes out to Pretty down in LA with C the G, Max and Jerry.

Enjoy your Thursday!

KT and Viv

More SJJ and the kiddo

2009-06-10T06:30:00.000-07:00

Favored Auntie Sara JJ visited the other day to get a little Viv fix. Vivian has been particularly fond of the big red yoga bouncy ball and being held facing out the last couple of weeks. Inevitably, adult talk gets boring and naps become more interesting. I like this kid's style!

6/3/09:

Favorite auntie Sara JJ stopped by and put the baby to sleep on the bouncy ball. We love a good sleeping baby!

She's still in the action I tell ya! Not missing a thing just resting the eyelids!

OH the little cutie!

Sheesh!

2009-06-09T10:39:00.000-07:00

So I spend my day having lovely interactions with such a sweet sweet baby, but who would know!? Trying to get the kid to smile for the camera is almost impossible. She smiles and grins in her sleep, on the changing table, in the bouncy chair, when she's napping....for the camera? NO!

Here's my best shot at it. BP and I are going to tag team trying to get the super cute full gummy grin captured at some point. As soon as I figure out how to post video, I also have 2 + hilarious minutes of Viv just staring the camera down looking impossibly serious. No smiling!

To the evidence!
Try number 1:

Trying to get this kid to smile for the camera is difficult!

Try number 2:

Almost!

Try number 3:

Pretty close!

Try number 4:

And she's over it! The 2 minutes of video I have trying to do the same thing are pretty funny but fruitless. She's REALLY stinking cute when she gives you the big grin!

I'll capture it! I swear I will!

In other news, it's been busy around here. Trying to keep up with the garden, a growing baby (2 months! Wow!) and the house is really a full time job. I'm looking forward to Auntie Tamara and Grandma Nana coming in the next few weeks so I can get something done while they do some baby holding! BP has been busy back to work all over with Playwrite and Peace Warrior curriculum work occupying him. When Dad was here he got to see a final performance evening with a group of kids BP had worked with. He said it was really neat. I have yet to be able to schedule to get there, but I will!

The garden is rocking and I'm getting ready to do a bit of canning since Oregon strawberries have just come into season. Jam! YA! Other than that, we're all healthy and wise...just looking for a touch more tangible wealth these days. It's coming I just know it!

Enjoy your Tuesday!
KT and Viv

6 wk BBdr Visit (now that she's almost 8 weeks old!)

2009-06-03T06:30:00.000-07:00

We're caught up with posting photos now!

Had the final installment of BBdr visits with the lovely and talented Dr. Sara Ohgushi while Dad was here. She was pushing 11lb's 5.5 oz and is 22.5 inches long. But being a Landis child, she's in the 80th percentile for head size. I knew that, but it's a special kind of knowing!

It was a good visit all around. We love going to the BBdr. I hope Viv likes it too since Dr. Sara isn't getting rid of us any time soon. BP and I are also scheduled to go talk at the next "what to expect at your homebirth" class she's teaching on June 21st. We'll let you know how it goes.

Dad and Martha suffered through waiting for us after meeting the BBdr and then headed to the haberdashery where BP got his styling new hat. He's looking very swanky in it, I must admit.

Pics!

5/21/09

And as a bonus, we caught her after she just returned from a homebirth of a 10lb 4oz baby! Putting Viv to shame! Styling new 'do for the BBdr as well. We were informed it's her twice a year cut.

The lovely and talented BBdr working her voodoo magic on a fussy baby. Just mere seconds before, Viv was screaming her fool head off. Ahh, the power of the BBdr!

That's it for catch up,

Kt

The Mentor Visits

2009-06-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

BP's old mentor in men's work got ahold of him a few weeks ago and they arranged a visit after 10 years. It was nice to see him and his wife. Of course, we neglected to get a photo of him, but we'll get one from him since HE got one! Sheesh

5/30/09

Nancy is the wife of one of BP's manly mentors who recently got in touch with him. They drove up from Eugene in the blazing 87degree heat to sit around and chat with us. Of course, since Jim's an old school kind of guy, we totally forgot to take a picture of him.

Nancy did enough baby holding and loving for the both of them. Mother of 4, she obviously had some mad baby handling skills. She's also a great grandma too!

We'll get that picture of Jim posted as soon as we get one!

KT

Visits! (Catch up photos)

2009-06-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

We're still a bit behind in the posting arena. BP's been busy and, frankly, I've been holding the baby!

Earlier in the week, as it got hot, I ate something that didn't quite sit right with Viv and we had a terrible Monday-Wednesday with gas, crying non-stop and general uncomfortableness. Bad news bears. We don't know how parents of colicy kids MAKE it in the world. After an EPIC spit up of some sour milk and stomach fluids and two poops in an hour on Wednesday, the week generally smoothed out. That day has come to be known as "bodily fluid" day, as I was covered in every one she currently creates at one point of the day or another. Go motherhood!

The end of the week saw Viv back to good spirits and accepting visitors. On to the pics!

5/28/09

Here's our good friend father Paul SJ...man of the cloth...who stopped by for an impromptu visit. He was out doing good deeds or something and came to remind Viv of her place in his heart.

As you can see, he's smitten! Of course, it helps that we named her after him (cough, cough).

5/29/08

Not our kid but what the hay!

Had an impromptu visit from "that neighbor kid" this morning. Apparently he now hightails it over to our house whenever his mom lets him pick his destination outside. He has a great relationship with Petey, the black and white cat. They like to play chase around the living room.

The other side of this photo is the cat trying to look relaxed and nonchalant. We know he's not though. "That neighbor kid" is awful fast for a 14 month old! Just got to walking a couple of weeks ago and already is trying to kill his mother with stress by taking a few good tumbles. Take notes Viv...no falling!

5/30/09

The BBdr instructed us that little Vivian legs need to not be splayed out when in slings, which is fine if you are holding her face towards you. Unfortunately the preferred position is looking out these days...darn it all! Being held like a little baby was SO last week. Here Papa models the newest attempt in baby fashion forwardness...HA! I crack my self up!

KT

It's Hot ya'll

2009-05-31T23:02:00.000-07:00

Whew! It's hot! Hot baby, hot papa, hot mama. It's pushing 11 pm here and it's just now starting to cool off. The passive cooling we use to keep the house temperature down is working but not as energy using as just having a darned air conditioner. I really didn't think we needed one until the baby came along. Keeping that kid cool is a full time job!

She's been nursing on 45 minute increments and then sleeping most all day. A pretty human way to deal with the heat. I have been way up on the water consumption, given my recent drive by with mastitis (which I kicked! Thank you BBdr!) I am pretty paranoid about getting dehydrated. Let me tell you Intartube audience, when your boobs hurt your whole day is pretty much shot! Not to mention your attention is GALVANIZED! Whoooo lordy!

SO...needless to say...it's hot!

On to the photo documentation!

5/31/09:

Here's Papa after a hard day doing his work building a curriculum for young men kicking back with his favorite hot babe. Notice the subtle mama coordination of the pink bobby, pink diaper cover and the red yoga ball. Kickin!

You gotta love this girl's style. Work that arm Viv!

Enjoy the Mama finally getting back to posting on the blog!

KT

Grandpa Ward's visit

2009-05-28T12:57:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Ward and his main squeeze Martha for such a nice visit. Ward came in to town first, and had a few days with the famdamily. He did some baby holding, and helped out with an important project -- installing blackout shades in the bottom floor. Hooo boy are those nice, not only for soothing dark rooms for the bebeh, but to keep the heat down as well.

Martha was very sly about not being photographed, which we didn't notice until the visit was over, darnitall. I will ply Grandpa to see if he's got some pictures we could share later on.

On to the pics:

5/17/09 Ward and the Bebeh

Ward in his Sunday-go-to-meetin' clothes, holding the bebeh in the beginning of the trip, right after his arrival from the airport.

5/17/09 The Queen's Tea

Grandpa Ward, being the consummate Trooper that he is, came with us when we went out to Hillboro to a friend's house for tea and snacks to honor The Queen's birthday. Canukistanis are always just looking for an excuse for a party, really.

5/19/09 Ward comforting the Bebeh

Grandpa Ward did some good walking-around-and-comforting while he was here to help out with Kt and I needing hands at points during the trip.

5/19/09 Lunch with Bebeh and Kombucha

We all took a walk down to the local cafe (Kt and Ward were on some serious reconnoitering regarding all the pie within walking distance of the house), and Ward bought us a nice lunch. Here I am with the bebeh strapped on with the Baby Hawk carrier, and toasting with my Kombucha. Neither Ward nor The Wife like the stuff but I crave it.

5/19/09 Ward and The Wife

Here is Grandpa and The wife at the little lunch place we walked to. He's oozing with pride, look at that face.

5/19/09 More Grandpa Ward with the Bebeh

Some good gazing time with the Bebeh and Grandpa Ward.

5/20/09 Grandpa and the Bebeh gazing

More gazing time with Grandpa Ward. Good stuff. (that blue behind him is a shade lighter than the one we're actually going to use in that room, btw).

Enjoy visits from the Patriarchs,

Bp

Baby First: Bottle feeding

2009-05-22T15:06:00.000-07:00

I was inspired to start digging out "baby firsts" from this blog and my memory by Stephanie today at Kt's work. She mentioned that her daughter recently found a "baby's first year" journal at a store, and immediately started grilling her about her first tooth, and trip to the park, and car ride, and visitor.

And, we haven't started one of these journals yet.

SO -- there is a new category of post that will enter this online journal, the Baby First. Text-only, a brief description of firsts as they happen.

Today: First bottle feeding. Viv kinda looked at me like I was crazy when I first introduced the bottle, then I hummed and rocked her back and forth and wiggled the nipple in her mouth a bit and she latched and fed. But after a little bit, she kinda spit the nipple back out and gave me a look like "what the hell is this all about anyway?"

Also, Katye's first day back at work. She went in to do some book keeping for one of her clients. Our strategy: feed the baby like crazy, get her asleep, then she and I lay down for a nap and Kt goes to work. When the bebeh wakes and isn't yet fully with it, I bottle feed her a bit, and we hang out around the house. Feed as necessary. Then, when she begins to fuss, get the Baby Hawk sling on, suit up with the diaper bag, and walk to Kt's work. With the bebeh, that takes about 40 minutes one way.

She yelled and screamed when I put her in the sling, but within the first 1/2 block of walking, she calmed down and started dozing off. Within 3 blocks she was out like a light.

Bravo, Little Viv, Bravo.

She fed at the office, got a diaper change, socialized a bit and then into the car seat and home. On a day when I wasn't still breaking in a new pair of shoes, I will attempt a walk back home and leaving Kt at work for another few hours. But this is the first trip, so we consider it a raging success.

She's still a little thing, so lots of Mama time is in order.

Enjoy being reminded of the things that will at a much later date be good to have,

Bp

Attack of the Redwind Aunties

2009-05-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

5/16/09 Attack of the Aunties 1

This is one in a series of shots taken as we were attempting to leave a Redwind gathering with Ms. Vivian. The Aunties came in for some last minute kisses, and this blurry action shots are all we could pull off in the initial heat of the moment.

5/16/09 Attack of the Aunties 2

Another action shot on the porch of the community yurt at Redwind.

5/16/09 Attack of the Aunties 3

Auntie Heidi and a blurry Alethea at the now-infamous Redwind kiss massacre.

5/16/09 Attack of the Aunties 4

Same picture, with flash. Makes us look like we're in a Nuclear Winter.

A slew of Daddy/Bebeh pictures

2009-05-22T04:45:00.000-07:00

We had a few Daddy pictures come up all at once, so I thought I'd put them all into the same post.

5/10/09 Dad and Bebeh waking up

Kt made the observation that sitting in this chair, staring out the window, is the way that both Viv and I seem to enjoy waking up. After a bit of staring, then maybe some tea (and mama milk) -- but first some good old-fashioned zoning out must occur.

5/15/09 Daddyblogging For The Win

The old bebeh in the knee maneuver has become a favorite of mine as of late. Allows for a small amount of multi-tasking. This isn't my only blog, after all.

5/15/09 Boppy-as-travel-pillow

I've never claimed to have a small noggin. In fact, I shopped for hats just today at a local haberdashery, and my selection was quite limited due to the size of my cranium.

It was late, the baby was fussy so I was holding her -- she would only sleep on someone. So, I got her secured, then got the boppy on and zonked out with her. Yes, they're made to go around the waist of a nursing mother, but if it works it works.

Liberace and The Cat

2009-05-22T04:30:00.000-07:00

Here are some older pictures that I found on the camera that I had almost missed.

5/9/09 The Liberace pose

Katye calls this Vivian's "Liberace Pose" -- and says DUM DUM DUM DUMMMMM whenever she sees this picture. You may or may not be struck by the same impulse.

5/9/09 Sula contemplates the usurper

The cats haven't had much interaction with the Bebeh. Sula just stares at us with this "why have you done this" kind of look occasionally, and walks off with a little "harumph." Here, she seems to be genuinely contemplating the new monkey.

The Bebeh and the Sikh

2009-05-21T18:30:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos and comments from Viv's first visit to the Chiropractor -- the lovely and talented Dr. Khalsa.

On to the photos:

5/15/09 Bebeh's first Chiropractic visit

Here's Ms. Viv (in another "rocking Dad outfit" -- hey stripes go with stripes sheesh) and Dr. Khalsa, our beloved Chiropractor. On a whim (or an intuition, or a hunch) I told Kt she should get an adjustment. Her back had been killing her for a while anyway. We took the bebeh to have Khalsa possibly do an adjustment for her too.

5/15/09 Khalsa and the Bebeh

Viv did get an adjustment while we were at the Chiro. She had a rib out -- Dr. Khalsa took my finger and showed me what it felt like, comparing a correct rib and the one that was out. I, to be honest, don't know that I could have told the difference. This is why we have experts in our lives. His adjustment was so quick she kind of squeaked and then it was over. I was holding her and didn't even notice it. The Wife and I both think it's going to be a good plan to get the Bebeh both Chiro and Craniosacral as she gets older to keep her straight and healthy.

5/15/09 Viv giving it to Dr. Khalsa

In the end, the beard couldn't win her over -- she was over-stimulated and let us all know this in no uncertain terms. It was a very successful visit, not just for Katye (who felt like a million bucks) but for the Bebeh.

This picture was pre-adjustment, she calmed down after a little work from Dr. Khalsa's skilled hands.

Newberg, Israel and the Bebeh

2009-05-21T11:26:00.000-07:00

Can we catch up, can we? Can we get to present day photos by the weekend? We shall see.

Here is another set. Pictured below is our Super Hero friend Israel. It's a long series of stories to explain the whole Super Hero thing, for now just take my word for it:

5/13/09 Israel and Bebeh

We took a drive out to Newberg today, to visit Israel and Rachael. Rach is pictured here, at our house holding the bebeh. This is Israel in his native environs.

5/13/09 Israel and Bebeh1

Another Israel and Bebeh picture. Looks like she has her scrunchy-face on.

5/13/09 Israel and Bebeh2

More Israel and Scrunchy-faced bebeh

Crystals and Dolphins and Bebehs, Oh My.

2009-05-20T10:42:00.000-07:00

I'll go straight to the pictures:

5/2/09 Crystal and the Bebeh

Ms. Crystal came by the house to do some bebeh holding, always a welcome guest.

5/2/09 Crystal and conked-out bebeh

Great picture of two pretty ladies.

5/11/09 Dolphin holding baby

Ms. Collette a.k.a. Dolphin, came by and did some Craniosacral work on Katye, and of course to hold the Bebeh. Katye loved the work, and felt great after the session.

5/11/09 Sleeping bebeh

What more to say, two hand-made blankets (Mom and Gerda), and a cute-as-hell sleeping bebeh.

5/11/09 bebeh hands

Those are the hands of the bebeh, 'nuff said.

5/11/09 zonked-out bebeh

I find this picture hilarious -- soooo zonked out. So cute.

Yogis and Yoginis visit the house

2009-05-17T13:04:00.000-07:00

Oh, the steady tread of time -- we're reaching back again a few weeks to catch everyone up on the pictures. I endeavor to be caught up by the end of the week so we can keep this recent and relevant.

On to the pictures:

5/01/09 Jmichael caught in the act

Kt had to take a picture of Mr. Yoga when he was at our house warming up for some baby holding. (Sorry Jmichael, I had to post it, I'm under orders).

5/01/09 Jmichael and the bebeh

A rare sighting of the reclusive-yet-affable yoga teacher at The Crazy House. Amazing what having a newborn around will do.

5/01/09 Angie and the bebeh

Our lovely friend Angie came by today as well -- it was just a yoga-rific kinda day. The red of Vivian's face really sets off Angie's smile, don't ya think?

Enjoy quality friends rubbing elbows with your progeny,

Bp

Going back in time -- trip up to Redwind, and placental burial

2009-05-14T09:02:00.001-07:00

Let's get this narrative back in order here. We jumped around a bit to accommodate a Gram and Katye's excitement over the lovely and talented Miranda. But, the story should be set back on track.

On the 30th of April, The Bebeh, Wife and I went up to Redwind to have a little ceremony to bury the placenta under a tree. Here are the pictures from that day:

4/30/09 Mama and Viv

Figured a little "reality show" was in order here. Here is the beautiful-but-unconscious mama with the bebeh in early morning light. Kt was still in the downstairs bed at this point, healing up.

4/30/09 Viv and Babybling (or... what happens when fathers dress their newborn daughters)

Rock that outfit, Viv, rock it.

4/30/09 Viv and Nunpa

Uncle Nunpa holding the baby at Redwind Headquarters. She was a trooper that day, her first drive up to the mountain and back (about an hour each way). She did great.

4/30/09 Viv and Nunpa

Great face over Nunpa's shoulder. Why hello!

4/30/09 Penny and Viv

Auntie Penny met Viv for the first time today. Penny lives right up the road from Redwind, so it was a good opportunity for her to see the baby without a trip all the way to town.

4/30/09 Pear tree

So long ago we had decided that we'd like to bury the placenta up at Redwind under a tree. Pears are Katye's favorite fruit and, synchronistically enough, Damon wanted to put a pear tree into his orchard anyway. So here it is, a nice 5-in-1 pear with Asian, Bosch, Comice and two other varieties that I can't remember at the moment. You gotta love grafting.

4/30/09 Viv and BP and pear tree

Viv at her pear tree. Mama's pear tree as well, since under it is the placenta.

4/30/09 Viv's pear tree

If one picture at the pear tree is good, then two is better, no?

Enjoy the simple ceremonies in life,

Bp

The after-Mother's-day-Mother's-day-post

2009-05-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

Mother's day was an especially eventful one in Ms. Vivian Paul's life. She took her first public transit ride, she saw her first orchid show, and she got to hang out with her super-duper uncle Damon.

And, for gratuitous awesomeness, we'll post the amazing plant Kt brought home from the show for her self-chosen Mother's day present.

On to the pictures:

5/10/09 First Max Ride!

Kt and the Bebeh on the Max platform waiting for the train to take her to the Orchid show.

5/10/09 Ist Max Ride

There we go, proof of the Bebeh's 1st max ride. You can see the name of our public transit right in the picture -- nice work Damon.

5/10/09 Orchid Show and BB

Kt in front of an impressive display of orchids at the Oregon Orchid Society's annual show. Conveniently held on Mother's day.

5/10/09 Checking out at Orchid Show

Kt checking out with the nice lady at the Orchid show. What she bought (see nearby pictures) is absolutely amazing.

5/10/09 Damon and BB

Uncle Damon finally photographed holding the bebeh. There is a special bond here, mark our words.

5/10/09 Damon and BBII

A great picture of Proud Uncle Damon with Ms. Viv. Yes, she did in fact get a good fistful of that beard. We're all very proud of her for that.

5/10/09 Carnivorous plant from Mother's Day

Nepenthes Miranda -- a complex hybridized Asiatic Cobra plant. It's carnivorous, vigorous with good light indoors, and beyond awesome. This is what my wife comes up with when sent to an Orchid show with some gift money. All on her own. She's amazing.

5/10/09 Carnivorous plant pitchers

Pitchers off the amazing N. Miranda Kt got at the show. This is where I want professional photographers, because honestly this is one of the coolest house plants I've ever seen, and our little snap and shoot (with amateurs behind the wheel) truly don't do it justice.

There ya go -- we have other pictures to catch the blog up to the present day -- but The Wife really wanted to get this one done. She's been soothing a tired bebeh nearby on the bed while I've been typing this up, as well as providing editorial review.

Enjoy friends, plants, and bebehs,

Bp

Grandma sighting!

2009-05-10T11:34:00.000-07:00

My mother was the first Grandma to visit Ms. Vivian. Officially, there are 3 Grandmas, and all are out of state. Grandma visits are going to be a big deal in Vivian's life, so we endeavor to record all of them for posterity.

Grandma Shirley stayed for a week, and had plenty of Vivian time every day she was here. We kept the itinerary light, so the focus was more on quality time with Bebeh and Mama. I was working a Playwrite, Inc. gig, so was out of the house during the day much of the visit. It was mostly a time for Kt and Grandma and The Peanut to hang out, take walks, share food and stories.

Here are a couple pictures, because as my intartube friends say "Pictures or it didn't happen!"

5/6/09 Grandma Shirley & Bebeh

Grandma Shirley was the first of the "grands" who got a chance to visit with Vivian. Here she is in the rocking chair with the bebeh.

5/6/09 Bebeh held by Grandma Shirley

Vivian is just beginning what the BBDR calls her "chin collection." We are looking forward to seeing how it progresses.

5/6/09 Grandma Shirley & Babycakes

Another picture of Grandma w/Bebeh. A nice day, a nice visit, a nice photo.

Enjoy honoring the mamas of the world,

Bp

First visit to work

2009-05-07T12:38:00.000-07:00

The bebah and I took a little jaunt yesterday afternoon to check in and see if work was still standing after the epic tax season. Folks seemed in good spirits and none the worse for the wear. Several folks at work hadn't met Miss Viv yet, so it was cute to see her OUT and about in the environment she had been in for almost a year.

Here's Eric holding the bebah...he's got skillz with 2 girls of his own (both now in college). Bebah holding skill never gets rusty.

Pam got an early start with trying to teach Viv how to work the ten-key...perhaps to help make up for the last 2 weeks of tax season I missed due to her arrival? Apparently Viv is about as excited about it as most normal people...fast asleep.

All and all, a successful voyage out into the work a day world. I'll actually be DOING some work next week, as I need to get caught up on some client bookkeeping that is woefully behind. I'm not sure that Viv wants to actually stay at work for a while but since she's still sleeping so much I might strap her on in the Moby and rock some bank reconciliations. You never know with us wily accountant mamas! Her current opinion of work is a bit undecided...what do you think?

And next week also for tells the beginning of studying for the dreaded tests again. Better try and keep my brain somewhat in the accounting realm or I'm libel to just float away in the baby bubble and wind up in retail! GAH!

We're off to see the lovely and talented BBdr (Dr. Sara) today for a little check up. Truth be told, we are having a terrible time weaning ourselves off of the frequent visits to her and are just going in to shoot the shit (and hold the baby). Perhaps a bit more baby Craniosacral, since Viv likes that so much. And we're going to see if there is anything to be done about the snorty, smacky warthog the child becomes when feeding or sleeping. I suspect no, but it never hurts to ask and it's a great excuse to love on the BBdr!

We'll get to posting more of the visit from Grandma Shirley who was here this week. Fun times had by all as the parade of Grands begins! Wardman is next on the 17th of May. Viv has many a project for him to tinker with! Now that I have figured out how to freaking download pictures from the camera we'll get with more posting. BP's been doing Playwrite this last 2 weeks and he's a bit behind. I'll help take up some slack!

Hope all is well with the far flung family and friends out there!

Katye and Viv

Pictures, both stills AND talkies!

2009-05-05T08:39:00.000-07:00

Going to stop posting dates up in the title, and begin putting them right in the picture descriptions.

I'll go straight to the pictures (and video!!):

4/29/09 Conked out bebeh -- Ahhh baby acne, it's supposed to peak at one month (a week away). The homeopathic bebeh treatment was continued today and seemed to have great results. No fussy bebeh at all.

4/29/09 Auntie Rachael w/Bebeh -- The always-stylish auntie Rachael came by today for a nice long visit, catch-up, and some bebeh holding. She's a veteran mama and was immediately accepted by Ms. Vivian.

4/29/09 Pops with the Bebeh -- Me and the Bebeh after a long day away. She does seem to know her papa and calm down when I hold her, which is sweet.

4/29/09 The Magic Chair -- Oh the magic bouncy chair, we love you so. The bebeh conked out for over 2 hours in it today and gave both the Mama and I tons of hands-free time to get little things done around the house. Very nice.

4/29/09 Wasn't that cute enough? -- I figured if one picture of the bebeh in the magic chair was good, a close up would be even better. Lo and behold, I was right.

And -- for our finale -- moving pictures!! Many thanks to Stu and Colleen for the video flip camera whiz bang thingy. There will be more video to come, I assure you.

4/30/09 Video: Morning on the changing table -- My very first video upload. It's early morning, and I'm kinda whispering. The bebeh is approximately 3 weeks old.

Man, my "baby voice" is a little embarrassing. I didn't want to wake up Kt right in the next room, and was cooing at the baby, which created ridiculousness. But hey, bebehs bring out the ridiculous in a father, it's only natural.

Ahhh, the surreal ramblings of a sleep-deprived early-morning parent. Pure comedy.

4/28/09 Epic Fussy Bebeh Day #1, a bath, and a magic pill

2009-04-29T22:36:00.000-07:00

Oooh did we have a doozy of a day today with the Bebeh. I was at work, and by the time that I got home the Mama was a bit harried looking, and the bebeh was pretty inconsolable when awake and not nursing. She did nap, but in fits and starts, and she did eat, but also in fits and starts. And she did a lot, a whole lot, of crying.

We both were worried she was going into some Colic phase or something. Pretty terrifying proposition, to be honest. Anyone who has dealt with a Colicy baby needs to have an automatic sainthood registered for them. Intense.

So, although we could kind of console the bebeh, I called the BBDR. She suggested a bath, for starters. She also said that little Vivian was at a bit of a disadvantage, because she had the gut of a 7lb. youngster, but the body of a 10lb bruiser to feed with that immature little gut.

Also, that you just get "rainy day bebeh" days. They just happen, and don't get alarmed about them.

So we bathed, and we used a homeopathic remedy
to help her with her gas, and things went smashingly. More info below:

Boy oh boy was Vivian not pleased with the world this day. She wore her mama out with crying.

I am assured that this is about the ONLY moment that the bebeh cried in the bath the whole time. She apparently loved the bath itself, but not the transition out of it. Boy, look at that SQUALL -- awesome.

So the bath was a prescription of the BBDR, and it certainly did mellow the kiddo out from her day of crying. The other magic pill was a homeopathic called Cocyntal. It helps babies expel gas and soothes their cramps as well. It gets a HUGE thumbs up from us, the Bebeh calmed right down -- and farted like a linebacker, to boot.

All's well that ends well,

Bp

Photos from Monday 4/27/09

2009-04-29T22:27:00.000-07:00

A normal day in the baby bubble.

Such as:

Common scene around here, Mom with the bebeh conked out and Sula conked out as well... pineapple upside-down kitty.

Look at that face. I mean, really.

Mr. Michael was a good bebeh handler. The drum above his head looks kinda like a halo doesn't it?

It's not.

Rightio then,

almost caught up now, aren't we.

Bp

Sunday the 26th -- not as many pictures, I was gone

2009-04-27T11:30:00.000-07:00

I was away today at a Curriculum-building day for Peace Warrior. I'll have a website for you soon, very soon, about Peace Warrior. I'll explain it then, but for now suffice it to say it's a project I'm excited to be a part of.

The Wife has been needing to eat -- a lot. She weighed in at the last BBDR appointment at the same exact weight as before the pregnancy. Ostensibly, folks all yell "GREAT." However, there are some who feel that 15 lbs. up is where a mama wants to be while she's breast feeding, to make sure there is plenty of milk and the quality is high.

Sooo, she needs to be on top of the eating thing.

Remember mention I made at one point of the limits of empathy? Yeah, well I find myself eating a lot too now. Like... teaching by example? Geez.

Although we don't have as many pictures, there are a few of The Wife -- so beauty abounds.

Ok, on to the pictures:

Katye rocking the purple robe, in the good chair, with conked-out bebeh.

Vivian often adopts this pose when she's sleeping. She either rests her hand on the side of her face or grabs her ear outright. We assume it is a prenatal habit. We melt from The Cute every time she does it and thought we'd share.

This picture just begs a caption, don't it? Sula is cracking me up.

Enjoy a lazy Sunday,

Bp

Still catching up, pics from 4/25/09 Saturday

2009-04-26T23:15:00.000-07:00

Saturday was nice and relaxing. Mr. Pitts FINALLY got to see the bebeh, he was going crazy with waiting but was too kind to come over with his virus and infect us all.

To the stills:

This is our work right now. Tough stuff I tell you.

Mike is the most baby-crazy male I know (followed closely by Big Chocolate). He's been gnawing at the bit to get over here and hold the little one. After two weeks of fending off a virus, he finally got to come over and was pleased as punch.

Ms. Viv often has a serious scowl on her face -- Mike is asking "Why so serious?" here.

And there we go, a nice, gentle Saturday lounge-about.

And, I'm caught up on blogging. I'll see ya'll on The Morrow.

Bp

Playing catch up, photos from 4/24/09 Friday

2009-04-26T22:58:00.000-07:00

Been a long and eventful weekend. Not only visitors, but a trip to a social event -- with strangers and everything!

Going straight to the stills:

Look at those snazzy diaper covers!

You ever wake up from a particularly ferocious nap and just don't know where you are, and feel like you got hit by a truck? We think that was the experience Ms. Vivian was having here.

Another picture of Ms. Vivian recovering from The Ferocious Nap of '09 (tm).

Ken is a new acquaintance and an excellent bebeh handler. Welcome here any time sir.

Our friend Kate knit this hat for the Bebeh, and she's almost already outgrown it. When it's on for a little bit more, it becomes a raiment of the Jewish faith.

Ms. Vivian at a charity auction a friend threw on Friday night. It was her first big outing that included not only a car ride, but socializing with tons of strangers/new friends. Auntie Amy was a great shore in the storm -- Ms. Viv was none too pleased when we took her away from her Amy nap to go home. None too pleased at all.

Enjoy catching up on your chores,

Bp

First car ride, The Luddites, and more

2009-04-24T23:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was another epic day for the Bebeh. Viv took her first car ride, and we got a taste of how that goes for her.

Basically -- she doesn't like being put in the carseat. She got a good cry on -- with the shuddering "I'm really pissed off" aspect and everything -- for a while after we strapped her in. She was still fussy as we were at the first trafficky section and a few stop lights, but once we were rolling she chilled out quickly and fell asleep. I think she's going to be an easy traveler.

We also had a nice house full of visitors and we sat around, chatting and laughing and passing the Bebeh around. It was real nice.

And -- for the record (I hope Google's servers exist long enough for this blog to be a good record) I'm so happy I could just bust. I haven't mentioned that, but I am. I know life will ebb and flow, but right now I'm just pleased as punch.

I am noticing a lack of pictures of my beautiful wife lately, I will endeavor to fix that.

Here goes:

OMG it's a bebeh in a carseat! You go Viv.

The Luddites (especially Autumn) thrilled with bebehness.

Uncle Aaron's beard, and one seriously conked-out bebeh.

Aaron's hands. Something very cool about this pictures.

Ms. Leslie, back from abroad, gets her first visit in with Ms. Vivian. She's a very experienced auntie, we're lucky to have her.

Enjoy the next thing,

Bp

Keepin' on keepin' on

2009-04-23T22:31:00.000-07:00

So these posts are now reflective. What happened yesterday -- seems like a year ago, or at least a week ago.

One thing that happened was another Bath. It seems Wednesdays are bath days for the Bebeh. Mom gets one too of course. I was so involved with the process that I didn't get pictures, yet again. I suck, I know. Plus, taking Pg pictures of the bebeh and mama in a bath is kinda hard.

Going right to the pictures:

Auntie Hanna holding the Bebeh after delivering some fine home cooking for us. Many thanks Hanna:

Ms. Vivian, with a full flash. We were experimenting using natural light today and the results were -- well Green. This picture will give some contrast to the weird color palette to come:

And.. flashless... yikes:

More flashlessness -- we're not zombies, I swear:

Flash or no, you HAD to see the Bebeh Mohawk post-bath hairdoo:

Uncle Tait with the Bebeh (apparently Tait-holding-the-baby pictures have a huge following, I am hearing through the grapevine):

Got to love the conked-out bebeh pictures:

A couple pictures of our friend Hunter holding the baby. He was so photogenic I had to post more than one:

And... I'm off to bed.

Bp

Pictures from yesterday -- Visitors, gazing, some shoulder action

2009-04-22T23:06:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

It looks like the format of the blog is shifting just a tiny bit. I'm going to be posting pictures from the day before. It seems to make more sense, and be happening anyway.

So, pictures from the 21st below.

Here is a nice picture of Kt and the Bebeh doing some eye gazing. Also, Kt is using one of the signiture "Brianna" moves, putting your knees up, resting baby against them, then swaying baby back and forth as you watch each other. Memerizing way to spend a few hours a day, I tell you.

Here is a good sleeping picture of Ms. Viv. Somehow, once Kt laid her down for a nap she got on her belly. Of course pediatric folks "in the know" are WARNING PEOPLE IN ALL CAPS not to have babies sleep on their bellies, but you know what -- 30 years ago folks were being told the opposite, and ONLY to sleep them on their bellies. So we figured, if the kiddo was zonked out and happy, and being monitored (which she was, by both of us) then sleep on your belly bebeh, go for it.

Here is Matt from Kt's work rockin the baby-holding. Matt is a hell of a nice guy, and someone to whom we owe a great debt for taking on a bunch of extra work, during tax season, to cover for Kt's absence due to Bebeh. The baby seemed to like him just fine, another redeeming point.

And lastly, here is the bebeh on my shoulder. We snapped a photo because of the cute face she was making, but it doesn't seem to be given any justice in this photograph. At least I'm rocking one of Grandpa's old shirts, so that's a redeeming aspect of the photo.

Enjoy squeezing one out at the last possible minute,

Bp

Photo dump, April 20 -- invisible mama mentor, healthy bebeh, and the men

2009-04-20T22:13:00.000-07:00

I got back late last night from my weekend up by in the Gifford Pinchot forest, helping a friend with her (very scarily wired) cabin. It's a bit safer now, yikes. Bad wiring plus live propane lines gives one pause.

So the photos span from Friday through the weekend, through today.

It was a big weekend for a few reasons -- it was the first time I had been gone over-night since the birth, and our dear friend Brianna came down from Washington to be with the new baby and babymama. Briana is an expert at this, having 6 kids of her own, spanning from 14 years on down. I was gone most of the time, but I heard lots of comments about the new, slick holds and swaying positions, and burping positions that Tait and Katye learned while she was here. Brianna, you rock. I'm sorry to tell the blog audience that she remains unphotographed with the bebeh -- a crying shame. We endeavor to do better in the future.

Having been gone for 2 days in a row really showed me how much the Bebeh is changing, and how quickly. Her eyes aren't as dark as they were when I left, looking much more blue and much less darkbluemaybebrownishgrey like they were before.

Her face continues to change as her weight rebounds and her skull reshapes after the squoosh of birth.

And today -- she's been fussy. This is new, she had one brief jag of fussiness early on and then it went away. Generally, as long as she gets fed and held, she's good. But today, when the feeding stopped (by her own prompting), soon after she'd start fussing. We'd try to burp her, sometimes hitting pay dirt, but even then she would cry.

I'll not post the multitudes of lay speculations that Katye and I have been running as to why she's fussy, or what "symptoms" we can see as we try to figure out her signals. I will post when the BBDR gets back to us if there's anything we find out for real.

Honestly, she could just be getting her lungs on and dumping some cortisol.

Right now, the baby is sleeping next to mama and not crying, so all's well.

Now to the pictures:

Here is my Qi Gong training partner and friend Leslie holding the baby on Friday the 17th.

Here is our friend Kate, who has knit some astoundingly cute socks and caps, holding the baby on Saturday the 18th.

What's there not to love about a Bebeh with its tongue out and its beautiful mother (taken today).

Close up of Ms. Vivian for admirers to note the subtle yet persistent changes happening, also taken today.

Tait and I trying to make the experience of putting on a pull-over style onsie less onerous for little Viv (she pretty much hates the whole pull-over maneuver).

Enjoy keeping up to date,

Bp

Pictures from today -- April 17th: Shaolin papa, sleeping burrito, auntie

2009-04-17T23:21:00.000-07:00

Kind of a bonus post today (tonight), or a very early post for Saturday, depending on how you see it.

I'll be gone this weekend, no computer for me -- so you and The Mama are on your own for posting. Of course, this will kinda post Saturday and I'll be home Sunday PM so we'll see if there's any interruption in The Bebeh Channel at all.

The wonderful Brianna is here this weekend to help out with the bebeh, hang out with KT (they are soul sisters), and relax a bit from her work-life and family. So no fretting about me leaving Kt all alone before she's all healed up now.

I'll get right to the pictures:

As any of you who know me already know -- fashion is a priority of mine. Ever more so now that we're in The Baby Bubble (tm). Katye dubbed this my Shaolin-papa look. I expect it will be all the rage with the kids soon.

Here's a picture of the bebeh, who is apparently concerned about something. She never did explain what.

Auntie Kathy from the coast. Auntie Kathy is the proprietor of La Luna Loca, a great shop in Cannon Beach, Oregon and online if you click here. (Why yes, that was a soft plug -- and also a troll for some google space, every little hit helps) With worldly and together aunties like this, how can Viv go wrong.

And finally, a little sleeping peanut burrito.

All together now... "Ahhhhhhhhhh"

Enjoy,

Bp

Photos from yesterday, 4-16: Auntie Care and The Boss

2009-04-17T09:03:00.001-07:00

My first full day gone went off without a hitch. Two aunties -- Alethea (below) and SJJ (that's what we actually call her, btw, not just some intartube moniker) came by and held the baby, and cleaned, and helped with baby's first bath (sorry about no pictures on that one, we'll remedy the "no baby bath pictures" situation soon). Apparently it was a smooth, fun, eventful day in the Baby Bubble (tm).

Also, a couple people from KT's work swung by. It was the day after D-day for them, so a celebratory baby-holding was in order.

Pictures below:

Auntie Alethea, one of the fine, fine helpers for the day.

Uncle Tad, who was thrilled to see Ms. Vivian

The Big Boss Kim -- our baby is a warm-up for Kim's next grandchild, due in July I believe.

Stephanie, also from KT's work -- whose daughter (nicknamed "Chiquita Banana" by Kt) is dying to come by and see the munchkin as well.

A great photo of Auntie Heidi. She is a preschool teacher and loves the kiddos. She was pulling off some good story telling by talking to the adults about this and that adult thing, but doing it as she was gazing at Vivian and in a storyteller voice. Vivian was absolutely enthralled. Then, later, when Ms. Viv was nursing nearby, Heidi was talking and Viv looked her way again -- obviously she has the magic voice.

Who knows, maybe more pictures today -- could be a bonus Friday.

Bp

Emergence

2009-04-16T16:45:00.000-07:00

Or re-emergence I would describe it as...

It's amazing to me that there is this little wonder in the world and that it came through me (literally). In the days since the birth, I've been trying to remember the labor and the experience from the standpoint of it having been a ceremony and it's been more and more difficult to remember it. It's mostly like I can view the experience as an outsider looking in, but then filled with emotions. Odd but needed I guess or no one would have an second child.

The healing and recuperating goes well. I am trying to stay in bed, off my nether regions more and it has been helping. The immense amount of support for this process from friends and even neighbors has been humbling. I feel like I have lived a good life to have such amazing support come back to BP and I at this time.

Thank you to everyone who has sent little items, meals or just support in the form of holding the baby. We all appreciate it. I'm not really communicating out into the "real" world much still from the bubble of baby-land, but I can feel the two realms beginning to have fuzzy boundaries and I am sure they will soon merge and just be the one place Vivian and I am inhabiting. Soon we'll be out and about, looking at the new flowers and getting some exercise (!) in the lovely spring weather. Soon the grandparents of all flavors begin to visit and make their introductions to the newest little shortie in the hood. I'm content where I am at the moment and am looking forward to the next transition and the next and the next.

It's going to be a great spring and summer in the sun with Vivian. I look forward to any porch sitting, iced tea sipping, early evening cool breeze enjoying, craft making and ceremony having time I will have with each of you. It's amazing to think that it will all be a first for Viv!

Enjoying the ride from this side,

KT (sans Tenant)

Tax day photos -- BBDR visit, Craniosacral for the Bebeh, and friends

2009-04-15T21:07:00.000-07:00

Boy am I not looking forward to re-entering society. I did a little run today, for a haircut (Tate, you rock) and then to pick up tons of bebeh stuffs that Ariel and Jesse were giving to us (ya'll rock as well). It only took say 2 hours, but I was wiped when I got home.

The house is deeply in the baby bubble. It's as though all the sounds are muffled, and all the light diffuse, and all that really needs to happen is snacks, naps, and hours of baby-face-gazing as she sleeps.

Tomorrow, responsibilities take me over an hour away and out of cell phone contact. I couldn't do anything about the timing, so I asked our spiritual community if anyone was available to come and hang out at the house to help Katye out while I was gone. We got two volunteers toot-sweet and I'm feeling a little better about being gone so soon. But it still rips me up a bit.

Katye is healing up quite well, but is still needing as much bed rest as she can muster so I didn't want her to be alone. She also needs a little bit of policing to keep on the whole "bed rest" path, as she wants to be up and active. I think the two aunties coming over tomorrow are up to the task.

So -- on to the pictures.

This is midwife-assistant and Naturopathic student Anna, Wapiti the cat and The Ladies before the midwife in-house check-up.

This is the lovely and talented Dr. Sara Ohgushi doing some Craniosacral therapy with the Bebeh. Without getting too technical about it, you can think of Craniosacral as SUPER slow, SUPER soft chiropractic. I just felt thousands of alternative health practitioners cringe as I typed that, muuch too simplified a definition, but I'll stick to my guns. It's good stuff, it's gentle, and it's great for babies.

As for the check-up, Ms. Bebeh weights in at 9lbs 4oz now, gaining back an ounce a day since the milk has arrived. This is perfecto, according to the BBDR. Clean bill of health, and the cord scab got pulled so she has a little belly button now.

And here is photographic evidence of Ms. Vivian Paul Maxson Landis's feelings about Craniosacral therapy.

Here are two pictures of when I figured out I could just take pictures myself, holding the camera out. [a move mastered by Team Seiner,btw]

Neighbor from across the street Tracy, a real sweetheart.

And Uncle Tony, who was the first guest bebeh-holder to utilize the rocking chair to its full potential. The bebeh approved and zonked right out on his chest.

I'm pooped, lets all get some sleep shall we?

Bp

April 14, BB fashion, neighbors and uncles oh my!

2009-04-14T21:32:00.000-07:00

Quiet day at the home front, as intended. Katye stayed in bed a good long time, though she did go out and sit at the couch with visitors for a couple hours. But the healing is accelerating in response to the increased bed-time, which is excellent.

The baby is very much into eating and sleeping. Soon after she wakes up, she wants to eat. Which, considering her size and age, is perfect.

I think I'll interpolate a bit of commentary at the pictures this time. There is quite a parade of faces going by and although I want to respect folks' need for privacy, I also want to introduce ya'll to our spirit family and neighbors.

First, the stars of the show. I just thought that was a beautiful picture of them both, and an especially fetching picture of the baby. It's hard to get a picture of her face in repose, because the camera has this little orange "pre-light" for the flash and it normally makes her scrunch up her face even if she's sleeping.

The second picture down is of some BB fashion/bling. We've begun to use the cloth diapers from the diaper service, and that allows us to use super cool diaper covers like this one. I'll probably do more shots of BB bling as we go along.

This is Uncle Tate. He's a member of our spiritual community and a dear friend of the family.

Uncle Meshi, another member of our spiritual community and local dance sensation.

Our neighbor to the North, Joella. She's mother of "Superman" -- one of the mellowest kiddos I've ever met, also known as Skylar. Who Tait has reminded us is definitely going to be 'that neighbor kid' who will be running in to raid our fridge and chase our chickens in no time. Skylar is about 1 year old now and will be a good playmate for Ms. Vivian.

A couple of great photos of Auntie Mariel. She, too, is a member of our spiritual community and came by to deliver our dinner tonight (wonderful dinner btw Mariel) and hold the baby for a while. She's a natural, just look at her.

And finally Terry, one of our neighbors to the South. His partner is Chuck, who is on the left in this picture. He's a nurse and an important source of Allopathic information for Katye and I. When we have to make the hard decisions about vaccinations, he is one of the people we are going to to get our stats right.

There we are, another good day of visitors and rest.

With the milk flowing, and Katye feeding while still in bed (as opposed to getting up and sitting in a chair to nurse) the stints of sleep are longer and longer. I think I had 5-6 hours last night, which is almost a normal day for me. I'm feeling pretty chipper.

Enjoy the support of loved ones,

Bp

April 13, the outside world looms large

2009-04-13T17:07:00.000-07:00

I've made two trips into the outside world so far. It's strange out there. It's calm in here.

Here ya go, a whole bunch of photos.

The photo of me on the couch with the cool little blanket our neighbor Gerda made (the one holding the baby in this picture) is there because that sight made Katye laugh so hard she almost spit up her breakfast. What... I was cold, sheesh.

The photo of the toes is here twofold -- one because Catherine the Great loves feet and especially toes, the other to counter spurious rumors circulating on Facebook about how this child is being treated. Actually, there's another reason. Look at how she curls her little toe over -- it's perfectly fine, she just keeps it that way.

The yawn picture really is a yawn, and not a yell.

Enjoy keeping up with the grandmamas, not an easy task,

Bp

April 12, Sunday photos

2009-04-12T21:24:00.001-07:00

First off, milk is amazing. The kiddo is sleeping like crazy, long hours, and eating like crazy, and content as ever. I just got up from a... 3 hour nap? That's like a vacation in the Bahamas at this point. Amazing, and she was sleeping right next to me, or on me, the whole time. So awesome.

All these face photos are trying to capture the "milk bliss" face that she's been showing lately. She is SO CONTENT with all this food coming in, it's hilarious. Katye laughs after every feeding because she lets off this huge smile -- every time.

The photo of us sleeping together can put to rest any assertions that she has more hair than I do. You people...

Enjoy your holidays,

Bp

Photo dump for April 11 -- parade of the guests

2009-04-11T20:27:00.000-07:00

Wow, you people are insistent. Sorry I haven't posted yet today, it's been busy. In penance for such a late post, I'll blast you with pictures, hows that.

So, we had invited Criddle and Hunter over today (it's "Crystal" but how not fun is that) and figured we'd have a quiet weekend day before Easter with the kiddo and a few friends. Then one neighbor came over, and then two more, and then two more, and then one more, and then two more, and then two more friends -- in the end we had 13 people over today. We didn't get pictures of them all holding the baby but darnit we tried.

In Bebeh news, the milk has arrived! This changes everything -- the kiddo eats for longer then sleeps for longer. The little furrows between her eyebrows have gone away, we assume because she's no longer constantly hungry. She's fussing way less, and has a much more blissed-out demeanor.

Also, she's opening her eyes and looking around. A lot. It's the best.

On the parent front, Katye is healing almost miraculously fast (thank you parental genetic donors, you did well). Although feeding is a bit less painful as the equipment is getting used to the whole idea, now the milk is creating swelling and soreness that requires some icing between feedings to alleviate. But we are both greatly relieved that the milk arrived, just one more worry off the list.

As for me, I've been tracking my reaction to all the hormones and pheromones barraging my system during this event. Right at the birth and for the first day or so, I had this crystaline, Zen-like awareness that was totally unexpected. I was definitely overjoyed that everyone came out healthy and happy from the arduous labor, and I was absolutely in love with my amazing wife and the beautiful little peanut; but my main thing was -- awareness, I guess. I was ready for anything, and very slow to fatigue.

As of last night, and especially with the little peanut opening her eyes and calming down from the milk enough to look around, I'm going into more of what I expected before we had the kiddo. I'm just in the gushing, overwhelmingly in-love, my-kid-is-the-most-beautiful-being-on-the-planet, I can't get enough of her phase.

I have no objectivity, and I feign none. She's the best, and that's that.

Ok here are the pictures. I could comment but I've talked enough.

Tons of details left out, but I'm needing some sleep.

Thank you for your support,

Bp

Photo dump for April 10

2009-04-10T11:58:00.000-07:00

I'm working on keeping photos coming in these first few days especially, because she's changing so much. But I guess, when I think about it, she's going to be changing fast for the next 20 years or so.

Oh well, I'm still working on getting lots of pictures out as I can.

There's one down there with me and the Moby Wrap Baby Carrier on cry duty.

She's been going on some crying jags, to which I respond with donning the sling and bouncing and "shush-ing" her around the house so Katye can sleep. I've found that if I'm in the canning pantry, no one else in the house can hear her crying -- even Katye in the guest room downstairs. There's an image for ya -- me bouncing around all night in the canning pantry with a crying kiddo.

She only cries for at most 45 minutes or so before she falls asleep, but it did happen 3 (more?) times yesterday. It was a new thing, and from what we've read and heard, there is just some crying that needs to happen for a plethora of reasons. I don't get too worked up about it, but it hits the Mama alarms pretty hard, making sleep difficult if I'm within hearing range of Katye. Thus, pantry duty.

We had a visitor today, The Luddite came calling this morning and got to meet Ms. Vivian.

The other photos are of crashed-out parents with the kiddo. If only we looked as good as she does.

She's been opening her eyes and looking around a bit. When I get a good photo of that I'll post it too.

Enjoy keeping up with Ms. Vivian,

Bp

Update from the Day After

2009-04-09T18:29:00.000-07:00

Vivian looks a little bit less like Winston Churchill today. Some of the birth puffiness has left her face and she's lost a little weight (totally normal until the milk comes in about day 3).

She's all about the eating, which she has been doing about every hour since not long after she was born. This is hard on Katye (first baby = sore nipples), but also helping her out since nursing prompts the uterus to contract after birth (which, in turn, staunches bleeding from the loss of the placenta -- nature is amazing).

I just realized how specific and geeky that last sentence was. I'm sorry, I'm a biology geek so there will be some specifics thrown in here that may be a bit too "up close and personal" for some folks. Hope it's not too bad.

Anyway, everyone is healthy and good. The BBDR came by for the day one checkup, and all is well.

I've used a Moby Wrap Baby Carrier
for the first time today, and holy hell, thumbs up. What a relief for my back, and yet the baby was still very content up against my body and easy to woo to sleep. It turns out I have the Daddy Sleep Magic that we've seen evidenced in The Good Reverend up North as well as Uncle Terry down South. I can get that girl calmed down and snoozing in no time -- woohoo!

Ok, the cats need to be fed and they're bugging Katye who is already feeding something. I have to go.

Thanks for all the kind thoughts, notes, and gifts. We really appreciate all the love and support,

Bp

Team Baby -- pictures from the day of Vivian's birth

2009-04-09T04:04:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from Vivian's birthday.

The first is of Team Baby -- on the left is Anna, the student/assistant, and of course the fabulous Dr. Sara Ohgushi on the right.

I have to insert here that this wasn't an easy birth by any rubric. That's a big baby, and she had to turn before she was born. She turned at the "transition" stage of Katye's labor, which (I'm told) is hard enough as it is. The BBDR was a fantastic coach and support throughout this experience and we can't thank her enough.

I'll probably continue to gush about her as we go on, but that's why you people came here right? For overwhelmed, unedited, parental gushing?

And pictures, so lets get to those. Again, the first is of Team baby, then the other two are of Katye and I with the Bebeh each within an hour of the birth.

[remember, you can click for bigger versions of these pictures]

Enjoy untrammeled familial photography,

Bp

It's a Girl!!!

2009-04-08T15:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome Vivian [to be determined] Maxson-Landis, Born April 8th, 2:45 PM.

She's a big girl, 9lbs. 15 oz. and 21" long.

Thank you for all your support. I'll post more later.

Bp

Update on the baby-having -- 1:00 pm

2009-04-08T12:51:00.000-07:00

So Katye has been working real hard. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers.

Due to [insert lots of gory details here], we are past a second water breaking, Katye is dilated to 9 cm (10 being fully dilated), and the baby has hair -- as reported by the midwife during her work.

There have been some surprisingly challenging spots, but things are progressing well now. (saying "surprisingly challenging" here may be the most intensely understated thing I've ever said)

The second BBDR isn't here yet, so we're at least an hour out. I definitely know I'm no good at anticipating anything in this process, so I'll report back in when I can.

So much for "see you on the other side."

Soon,

Bp

Big pushing, and the phones are off

2009-04-08T07:54:00.001-07:00

Katye is doing the heavy lifting right now. I'm needed in there, so our phones are going to be off until we're in the clear.

Thanks for all of your well wishings, and prayers.

The baby is doing great, and Katye, though tired, is too.

I'll see ya'll on the other side,

Bp

Hard Labor & The Tub

2009-04-08T05:37:00.001-07:00

Katye has been, of course, a trooper. She is now having very strong contractions, is dialated approx. 4-5 cm. and has gotten into the birthing tub. She likes it quite a bit.

There is a lot of work to do.

I didn't sleep last night, I stayed up prepping the house, so expect updates to get a bit psychadelic from here on out.

Bp

3 minutes now

2009-04-08T01:53:00.001-07:00

Her contractions are at 3 minutes, she's doing great. She can still talk through them, but she's in serious labor now, I'd say.

I'll try not to be too crazy on the blog, but folks are asking so I thought I'd post.

Bp

Water broke Approx. 11:00 PM

2009-04-07T23:16:00.000-07:00

Here we go folks. The water has broken (unequivocally, unlike this morning), and she's having real, full-blown contractions at 15 - 20 minute intervals. They are mild enough that she's going to try to get some sleep.

As will I.

Here we go.

Bp

Daily post stream #5 -- still no budging

2009-04-07T13:55:00.000-07:00

I think the kiddo is very comfortable on the inside of things. I mean, who wouldn't be, right? Katye is taking very good care of them both, there's a great temperature, no need for all that exhaustive BREATHING, and CHEWING -- great stuff.

But you know, we'd sure like to meet this person.

We've been in contact with the BBDR (the lovely and talented Dr. Sara Oghushi), and signs are all good for the little one's arrival. Just need the arrival part. She did suggest that in a couple days if we still have no action, to get an ultrasound just to make sure there is good space, and the placement and size of the baby is going well. It is going well, by the way -- Katye can tell -- but why not be sure.

And there we are. Soon, another walk, and ... chores to keep my mind off things.

Whew, this waiting thing is exhausting, I must say.

Bp

[picture of the lovely Cuzco being stubborn via the Cuzco for King website]

Daily post stream #4 -- massage and a walk

2009-04-06T12:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, The Wife got a great bodyworking session with Tito -- redeeming a thoughtful baby shower gift certificate. As per usual with her and Tito she grumped and harumphed as he worked, then felt fabulous afterwards. He worked a few known induction areas, just in case it would help get this show on the road.

Oh, the show's not on the road by the way. I would have said that first if it were. You probably figured that, though.

Today, it's bright and sunny and springy outside and we're going to go for a nice walk. We're headed to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden to bird and flower watch. Why just walk around the neighborhood again when you can go see blooms!

We may bump this walking thing up to a couple times a day, in fact. It seems to be the overwhelming advice from all of our Mentor Mamas.

Enjoy the wait,

Bp

[photo credit via Parks & Rec. site]

Daily post stream #3 -- Napping, and temperature-sensitive glass tiles

2009-04-05T14:55:00.000-07:00

What do temperature-sensitive tiles have to do with NOT having a baby yet?

Nothing!

But they're kinda pretty.

(Katye is napping, no baby-having as of yet today, all is well).

Nothing to see here, move along please,

Bp

Daily post stream #2 -- Seating Capacity

2009-04-04T11:34:00.000-07:00

First off -- no Bebeh yet folks. A good nights' sleep, a sunny day to enjoy, some futzing around, but no eviction for The Tenant.

The calls for Bebeh arrival are now coming in on a daily basis. There is some serious pressure from The Palouse region of SW Washington for an arrival after midnight tonight and before midnight on Sunday night. Seems some local color near Walla Walla has a birthday tomorrow...

As for seating capacity. Our kind neighbors gave us a loveseat and chair, which makes 3 comfy chairs and a 2-seater couch for folks to sit on when they arrive to visit The Munchkin. In addition to the awesome rocking chair that Kt's office gifted us at the Baby shower.

This may not sound like news to most, but our staggering lack of seating capacity was noted when we had elders of both clans in the house over the last few years. We just sat on the ground and didn't think much of it until soon-to-be Grandparents stood around, looking for someplace comfortable to sit other than the carpet. Well, we got you covered now.

Ps: Rach -- that's the rocking chair. I don't know where it came from but I can post more pictures later.

Enjoy the wait,

Bp

Daily post stream #1 -- The Wait

2009-04-03T08:10:00.001-07:00

After a number of slightly stressed calls from relatives and friends with the same theme ["Soooo, no posts on the blog, ya'll have the Bebeh yet? Why no posts? We want answers!?!"] -- I've decided to start posting daily.

Katye's still in bed, and sleeping soundly. I didn't hear about any false labor or other uncomfortableness-es during the night, so it is reasonable to assume that all is well and uneventful.

The picture is of Jane, or Mental Health Kitty, or Zonal Kitty (I'll have to explain those names at another time) sleeping ON the belly. This is a very common scene lately. Jane must be touching the belly when she sleeps, always.

If Katye rolls over, often the cat will be smooshed between the belly and various pillowy belly supports, with only legs and tail sticking out akimbo. But, she will keep right on sleeping. She'd rather be smooshed than left out of belly contact.

Either this animal is revving up to be a familiar to Incoming Child, or it's simply a matter of her appreciating the BOILING LAVA HOT temperature that the wife is putting off nowadays, especially at the belly.

No news is good news,

Bp

40 weeks: the waiting game

2009-04-02T11:49:00.000-07:00

Here we are...the fateful time has come. Or, that's what they tell me. For everyone out there in Tenantsea land, no baby yet!

The tenant is staunchly lounging on the couch eating bon-bons and refusing to vacate. That's all fine. Babies come when they wanna and I have been getting GOBS of rest in the face of impending sleeplessness.

Yesterday's trip to the BBdr (the lovely and talented Sara Oghushi) was far less eventful than expected. Not that I knew what to expect. The blood pressure is a little high (gee...maybe I should go BACK to work) but the leg swelling and tiredness is pretty much abated. There were some light induction techniques applied (you can go looking for "stripping the membranes" yourself if you really wanna) and mostly just an overall bill of good health. Which (THANKFULLY) has been par for the course this pregnancy.

It's been kind of difficult to update the blog as my computer gave a last and final gasp a couple of weeks ago. I was doing a bit of blog posting from work (ssssh!) there at the end but now am on Maternity leave so I am really thrown from my game. We'll work to keep you all posted as we can. Most of you know that BP is extremely communicative, so really, if no news is happening, he'll tell ya!

Thanks for all the support and as a salute to my momma's photo of me the day before I was born, BP and I did some recreation this morning! For your viewing pleasure, a BIG ole belly of baby.

KT and (soon to be moved out) Tenant

Baby Moccasins, by SJJ

2009-03-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of the lovely and talented Auntie SJJ, holding the deerskin baby moccasins she made for The Tenant. They are beaded, lined with fur, and made with traditionally-tanned leather (called "Brain Tan"). Due to the way it is processed, it is soft and light, and smells of woodsmoke permanently. Wonderful stuff.

[I've uploaded a large picture so this is clickable for even more detail]

Nothing like talented friends with love for your unborn,

Bp

BBdr visit- the Smackdown!

2009-03-17T12:08:00.000-07:00

Well, true believers, we all knew it was coming. Even I did. The BBdr (the lovely and talented Dr. Sara Ohgushi...enter web hit increase here) has, in her gentle and persuasive way, terrorized me into working less. HOW is this woman so effective...inquiring minds must know?!

Week 38. Yep, I could be having this baby any MINUTE now, I am reminded. Oh yeah...it's the cream filling at the end of the tunnel. It's the reason we're DOING this! Such a product based society we live in. You mean I get a treat at the end of this rainbow?!? SWEET! Then, she came in with the Karate chop death blow.

"So, you know you could go into labor ANY night from here on out right? So if you come home from work exhausted and expecting to sleep all night but go into labor instead, you'll be exhausted from the get go."

*insert sound of me screeching to an abrupt halt here*

OH YEAH! That thing I require, nay...CRAVE, oh 10 hours of sleep a day. Yeah...that thing I have been using (besides elk and 3000mg a day of B-12) to recover from working...possibly GONE! EGADS!

Ok...so we're more into the 6 hour a day realm not the 10 hour a day realm, including more naps, until the Tenant has officially arrived.

I'm telling you, this woman can leap any tall building that a client presents for her. I think we might pitch in a get her a cape.

Other than that, I am still moving right along. We're putting the final touches on the downstairs rooms in the next couple of days. The belly is getting oppressively big and cumbersome but the little dude/ette is still firmly ensconced. I think there might be a python wrestling contest happening every couple of hours and I'm not sure who's winning. We'll keep you posted if we get a giant python as the prize rather than a baby.

My loyal fan base (/wave loyal fan base) is keeping me honest by reminding me I promised to post an expose on my new snazzy rocking chair...so that may be on the list of things to do today when I leave work. Gah!

Work, btw, are being massive studs about the whole thing and I have to re-iterate how grateful I am to have such a rocking job. Woot!

So, back to the tax return I'm doing and I'll work to get some photo's posted when I get home. My computer died last week, so I'll have to navigate BP's. /shiver.

Swimmingly,

KT and Tenant

37 weeks: We're full term!

2009-03-11T09:48:00.000-07:00

Welcome to 37 weeks, ya'll. Lungs on the Tenant are a go-go...that is good since the body is definately gearing up for a significant move-out in the next few weeks. We are well into the realm of lots of kick/punch through out the day and epic bouts of hiccups. Whew!

The overwhelming vote at the baby shower was the Tenant would be moving out early, but I'm not convinced.

Suffice it to say, we're feeling a bit like this:

...even though they assure me it's still weeks away. WHO KNOWS?!

Latest blood test results show a whopping 2 point gain in my hemoglobin levels (10.6 to 12.8). I feel like the DOW! (that is a joke, people) and negative on the Group B Strep. That is a relief since I don't have to have IV antibiotics while in labor now. Sheesh. I tell ya, folks have been having babies for a zillion years and the medical community is all freaky these days about the most RANDOM shit. It's like 1 in 500,000 babies that has a problem with Group B Strep after delivery BUT (!) a convienent test ($) to have to take at 36 weeks just to be sure. Man, freak me out more about this process AMA. Bah!

Anyway...now that I have ~~stopped ranting~~ said my piece, I still have to say I am feeling pretty good. BP got the dishwasher installed and it's like Nirvana and Eden got all mixed together and spread all over my kitchen. WHAT a luxury! And it's sexy too!

Next on the list is moving the guest room downstairs this weekend and settling things there so I can spend a few days on the first floor post baby (sans stairs, I am assured I will want that).

Thanks to all who attended (or even didn't) attend the shower...cards are forthcomming! I promise! I swear!

Monday the 16th is the next BBdr visit (with the lovely and talented Sara Ohgushi) and I'm sure she'll have something cool to tell me since she's taking a baby crano-sacral class all this week.

Until then, loves...

KT and Tenant

Cupcake Madness

2009-03-05T15:09:00.001-08:00

And here you thought I was kidding...

[as per usual, clickable if you need garish amounts of detail]

There is no kidding when it comes to cupcakes, my friends. Redwind is testiment to THAT!

Kt and Tenant

[props to Mr. Turtlevoice for the rocking photo]

Big Weekend

2009-03-05T10:08:00.000-08:00

Whew! What are those two smiling about!?

Sorry for the lack of posts recently. It was a pretty big weekend with the Baby CPR class Saturday the 28th, then the Baby Shower Saturday the 28th, the 2nd home birth class Sunday the 1st, my birthday on Monday 2nd and the BBdr visit last night on the 4th.

DANG!

We'll take 'em in order since my little mooshey brain isn't so great at non-linear organizational thought referencing at this stage of the game. Thankfully, I can still organize a individual tax file with the best of them but balancing a corporate balance sheet has been eluding me this week. QUIET with the obtuse accounting speak woman (insert Brandon's voice here).

Baby CPR: Yes, you really CAN push that hard on the little scuppers, Virginia.

It was great to have a refresher course on CPR. Though they have really changed things since I took a CPR class (*cough, with my driver instruction course at 16yo...ahem*). Apparently it's all 30 compressions and 2 breaths for everyone. Just on babies you do 5 sets of 30 and 2 BEFORE calling 911 (if alone...or while someone else is calling 911) and with adults you call 911 THEN start CPR. I also feel better knowing the "flip 'em over and wack 'em on the back properly" choking technique. Makes me feel like I can at least address a severe situation, if not come out ahead.

There was minimal scoffing and eye rolling by the 25 year Neonatal Intensive Care Unit nurse over the home birth / co-sleeping / attachment parenting we are doing. That was nice. She was a plump, dedicated lady that really has the best interest of babies at heart, as I think most NIC U nurses do. And there really wasn't that much fear and doom espoused during the whole presentation, very nice.

Then...OFF to the Shower. I must admit, having the baby shower at a brew pub was FRIGGING GENIUS (applause to Heidi Mann, coordinator and preschool teacher extraordinaire). The old masonic building was cool, the staff was ON it with the pizza and beer (what little was consumed to their great dismay) and the space was perfect for the 57 folks that eventually came and gave a blessing to the belly. The BBdr [the fantabulous Dr. Sara Ohgushi, ND and Midwife] even showed and was a trooper, hanging with the tattooed, pierced, alternative crowd to the bitter end! I have photographic proof of her existence now!

Redwind (spiritual community par excellance) kicked down HARD with the cupcakes. If anyone has a shot of the overladen table filled with at least 10 different kinds / flavors of cupcake I would sure appreciate it. It was awesome and many a sugar rush was had by all (tho yours truly abstained from all cupcakes as the sugar terrorists were lurking about the room). We had a great haul of things and a remarkable dent put in the diaper fund of about 7 months able to be prepaid (THANK YOU EVERYONE!!). The highlight for me (by far) was getting to go through the pictures that folks had drawn for the baby. If you still want to draw a picture that we'll put in a book for the baby I have lots of paper left! I would be happy to mail one to you or feel free to drop by and do one. There were such sweet and hilarious sentiments memorialized!

More random photo's from the Shower ahead. BP also has a few he'll post from his camera.

Sunday continued the "all baby all the time" feeling with the 2nd Home birth class. We met up with the other 7 couples having their babies between March 15 and Mid June (we're couple #2....except we're so ridiculously on time for EVERYTHING, I think we might be early...bah). Went over specifics of breast feeding, diapers, immunizations and circumcision. I have to hand it to the BBdr...she's not a wilting flower when it comes to controversial topics (which I respect IMMENSELY) and we had quite the adult conversation on a range of topics that most folks just fight about. It was rad.

Monday I worked and came home, put my feet up and treated myself to a birthday "let's go to bed at 8pm". The right present for the right time, that's my motto! AHAHAHAH!

Last night we had the crack baby delivery team over to the house so they could check out the digs and find the house in the middle of the night (if needed). It kind of sunk in that the baby could be like 3 FRIGGING WEEKS AWAY for both BP and I. A bit of stress was had last night and we both decided that taking some serious action on moving things around downstairs to make the birth more comfortable and feasible MUST happen this / next week. So if you're feeling like moving stuff around and / or balancing things on the 39cm belly while I direct (and don't pick stuff up) gimme or BP a call! We need to get ON moving the guest room downstairs (next to the bathroom) since the BBdr's want me in it for 3-5 days after the birth (no stairs please, thank you). It will be a bit logistical, but should be fine with a couple of hands.

In other exciting news, we're getting a dishwasher FINALLY! YA! I am so friggin psyched! It goes in this weekend! Thanks to the old cranky attorney for his stellar donation to the cause.

And...well, other than that, lots of movement and kicking going on. I'm getting professional with this waddling thing and I think if BP doesn't die from having to wait on me hand and foot (what a trooper) we should be excellent. T. is off this week to California for a visit so we're going to try to rip the house up and reassemble it before he gets back.

Oh, and work some.

Speaking of work, my new teak awesomeness that is also known as a rocking chair will be exhibited in it's own post. My work folks are the best!

Wow, I guess I did have lots to post. I'll get those other shower photos up this evening if not totally wiped out. Off to the BBdr today for a quick check to make sure I don't have Group B Strep and to have a gallon of blood re-taken to test the anemia and Vitamin D levels. Yipppeee!

Love to all!

KT and Tenant

Month 8 Belly Picture -- with an octopus

2009-02-24T21:35:00.000-08:00

Here it is, the much-requested belly picture update. With the first toy we've received for the Bebbeh -- our friends Ted and Sara know us well. The octopus is awesome.

Bp

Week 34!! And the Sugar Terrorists

2009-02-17T09:18:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy week in the Maxson-Landis household. This last week marked the beginning of overtime at work so tax season has officially bitten. We also went to the first "what to expect at a home birth" class, given by the rock star BBdr, Dr. Sara. Then yesterday was a BBdr visit.

Whew!

I fully attribute my spunkiness and alertness to the addition iron supplement that I am rubbing on my feet (in paste form-gooey!). So overtime hasn't been that terrible, yet. I am still recovering when I sleep (since I'm sleeping pretty well) but I am going to bed at about 8pm. E-A-R-L-Y!

In other news, the home birth class was a real hoot. We were there with 7 other couples (one we even knew from other circles but didn't know they were coming!). We had an informal chat about what labor looks like (or doesn't as the case maybe), the progression of labor through the stages (the biggest being dilating from 1-10ish centimeters, which is a really BIG hole to think about making) and the final "ok PUSH!" phase (the shortest).

Very enlightening and not too terrifying. Both BP and I feel like all life events leading up to the big day have really been a good precursor for this kind of trial/experience/marathon.

We then watched a video (with terrible new-age music! /shiver) of 7 home births. It's pretty amazing to watch a little dude come out of someone. What's *really* amazing is that the little dude's head looks HUGE while coming out but mere seconds after the total package is popped out the whole thing looks incredibly tiny. Baby's as superhero's with morphing powers straight out of the birth canal, dang!

The BBdr visit was easy-peasy. With the exception of my glucose being a *wee* bit high due to consumption of 5 (a MERE 5!) red vines at work (it's not my fault!), the Sugar Terrorists (ST, tm) came out in full force! Sweet (no pun intended), innocent processed sugar was torn away from me and is currently being held captive by the Sugar Terrorist's (the BBdr and BP) who refuse to allow its free consumption to roam about unmitigated.

Harrumph!

So, Ixnay on the Ugarshay. The gauntlet has been thrown. Sheesh! All hell breaks loose over 5 red vines. Did you know those things are like 3 tablespoons of white sugar each? Here I thought they were just cherry flavored wax! Humbug.

All things considered, a pretty full week.

In other news, I'm taking suggestions for the perfect rocking chair. I don't think it's legal to HAVE a child without a rocking chair, but I'm a little late in the game picking one up or asking for one at the baby shower (2 weeks! Feb 28, come come!) I'm wondering what folks like (wooden, Amish, glider, etc) and where you might find such a gem?

Bring on the rocking chair stories! And the suggestions! Thanks!

Swimmingly,

KT & Tenant

Ridiculously unfair

2009-02-09T15:01:00.000-08:00

It's RIDICULOUSLY unfair that she brought out the toes so early. Just when you thought you weren't going to be KILLED BY THE CUTE of this baby...here come the toes.

GAH!

Toes are my favorite part of babies...tho, once I have my own I suspect the whole thing might be my favorite part. But for now...

GAH!

The TOES!

Curses woman!

Baby Shower Purchase items (should you so choose)

2009-02-08T09:46:00.001-08:00

For those of you waiting with baited breath for me to finally decide on cloth diaper covers for the diaper service (they clean the diapers / you provide the diaper covers) well the wait is over! WHEW! (who could possibly fit into this category? *I* barely cared)

So for prospective baby shower gifts, here is the run down of items. There is no registry at Green Mountain diapers so I make a linky list, so if you want to purchase stuff just go for it. Can't have too many diaper covers or accessories, REALLY! Email BP or I (or call) for our address if you want to just ship stuff.

Green Mountain Diapers: www.greenmountaindiapers.com

Diaper Covers (You pick the colors, we're not micro-managing here!)

Bummis Super Brite:

(4) newborn
(4) small
(6) medium
(6) large

OR

Super Whisper Wraps would be an equal substitute (they have different colors)

Accessories:

(3) Mommy's Touch Wet bags
(6) Mommy's Touch Changing Pads
(1) Snugglewool 27x36 (THESE LOOK AWESOME!!)
(4) Toddlebugz baby leg warmers
(4 pkg) Premium wipes
(2 pair) Woolbooties

Also, any wool clothing that might be on sale would be great but it's a little spendy. Wool is amazing stuff however!

Thanks for checking this out. Folks have been having a hard time with the registries in the side bar so here's a list of links to where we have registered and what we'd like. We're also open to almost anything! If you have questions or need our address to ship feel free to call either of us.

We are also registered at:

Babies R Us: The full name is Katye Maxson-Landis to find the registry. Thanks to co-worker's for the suggestion to register here!

Target: all you have to do it put in Katye Landis and you'll get there.

Swaddling Clothes: It pops right up when you click the link.

Baby Hawk Carriers: Feel free to design your own if you want to get one of these...they are all totally cool! The registry code is BK408873EO for the bag I designed or you can put Katye Landis in there too.

OR

Alternative Registry: Put in Landis and select baby shower and you'll get a list of the alternative cool things I just found zipping around on line. There is an actual registry lurking behind that link if you go there.

Finally: The Diaper Service! This handy gift registry link allows you to log on and just purchase a week or 2 (or 15) easily. We'll also have a donation jar at the Shower for cash donations to the diaper service. It's approximately $18 a week!

Thank you ALL in advance for your presence in the baby's life. THAT'S the really important thing to both BP and I.

Feel free to just show up at the Shower (with 10 bucks to feed yourself all you can eat pizza!) and just hang with us. We'd love to see you all there!

Swimmingly!
KT and Tenant

Shout out to C the G and her lovely husband

2009-02-07T19:24:00.001-08:00

It's a boy for the Seiner clan! She had her baby shower last weekend and then promptly went into labor (at 37 wks) and produced the child. Now THAT is quick turn around time!

Way to go Mama!

She, MAX HARRISON, and the proud Papa are delusional with love and lack of sleep but everyone is happy, health and home.

And the Oscar goes to Max for best impersonation of a Cabbage Patch doll in 2009:

Here also is the best supporting photo of a Papa and child:

Needless to say we are totally thrilled for them. I spoke with her the night before labor and ended up being out of town when she had him (Wednesday February 4th at 7:30 am). It was kind of unsettling to realize that babies can be born PRETTY MUCH ANY DAMN TIME THEY WANT TO, and that I was out of town, but we prevailed.

I wonder if baby showers induce labor? Hmmm...perhaps I'll have an move out notice tacked to my belly on March 2nd and then the baby and I can share a birthday!

Stay tuned true believers....just don't hold your breath!

Until later, let's all send a few well wishes and prayers to the newest Seiner on the block! He's gorgeous! Congratulations Cathrine and Jerry!

Lots love!

KT, BP and the Tenant

In case anyone's curious why we are using glass baby bottles

2009-02-04T08:50:00.001-08:00

Here is a documentary called "The Disappearing Male" by the CBC. I'll post their own write-up below:

The Disappearing Male is a CBC documentary about one of the most important, and least publicized, issues facing the human species: the toxic threat to the male reproductive system. The last few decades have seen steady and dramatic increases in the incidence of boys and young men suffering from genital deformities, low sperm count, sperm abnormalities and testicular cancer. At the same time, boys are now far more at risk of suffering from ADHD, autism, Tourette's syndrome, cerebral palsy, and dyslexia. The Disappearing Male takes a close and disturbing look at what many doctors and researchers now suspect are responsible for many of these problems: a class of common chemicals that are ubiquitous in our world. Found in everything from shampoo, sunglasses, meat and dairy products, carpet, cosmetics and baby bottles, they are called "hormone mimicking" or "endocrine disrupting" chemicals and they may be starting to damage the most basic building blocks of human development.

Here is an online petition supporting the Kid-Safe Chemicals Act. It will only take a second.

Bp

Week 32 begins: The 2 month point.

2009-02-03T07:10:00.000-08:00

Wow, time sure flies when you're making a baby. Is it just me or wasn't it JUST August? Crazy! Before I head off into the wild blue yonder to Medford for a few days of what my lovely husband calls "stickin' it to 'em" (Auditing work) I'll leave you with a little jicama nugget...

AAHAHAHHA...the baby as jicama. I tell ya, whoever came up with that reference ploy was really smoking something. I am sure it has spawned a thousand in-utero baby names (ooh, my little mango!)

I just think these are brilliant...call me crazy. Since I peeked going forward, I have to say I'm not nearly as excited about the watermelon one, but the pumpkin one is extremely appropriate.

Onward!

How your baby's growing:
By now, your baby weighs 3.75 pounds (pick up a large jicama) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, she'll gain a third to half of her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as she fattens up for survival outside the womb. She now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). Her skin is becoming soft and smooth as she plumps up in preparation for birth.

I have been feeling much better with the consumption of more iron supplements and elk. I get a topical iron supplement for the bottom of my feet when I get back. I'm trying to do everything in my power to keep recovering from working during tax season, even though my rockstar midwife isn't happy with my working schedule. We'll see how it goes. I am now under strict orders to put my feet up at least 15 minutes a day at work, that should be fun!

Other than that, I got another room painted ( the center room is now green) and we've decided on the blue for the front room. That will be my next conquest. The kittens are getting bigger and have a touch more personality. Sula is still hanging in there, mostly sleeping on the heating pad all day and making nasty faces at the kittens. Ah the love...

BP pulled up hard with a bout of food poisoning that I have to say, I am THANKFUL I didn't get. Bad news bears. Tait and I briefly contemplated the need to take him out back and put him down, but then some things, er..."moved" and he looks like he's going to make it. Bacteria are some serious shit here people! Don't just be ingesting wildly.

Apparently, (per the BBdr), Kiddo is facing the right way even at this stage of the game with a good head down, butt up, back to my stomach position that is optimal for slithering out a birth canal in a mere, oh...2 months or so. *Gulp*

And we had our first round of hiccups the other night...damn is THAT a weird sensation to experience from the inside of the inside of someone else. It took me a few long moments to figure out what was going on. It's like a small, reverberating volcanic eruption followed by some wild kicking. Dang! The BBdr assures me it's a sign of "fetal well being", so we'll run with it.

Have a nice week folks, I'll be back to spouting off this weekend sometime. I have a month 7 recap newsletter to get together.

And remember the baby shower is on FEB. 28th! If we missed getting you an invite for some reason, post us a note or give us a call and we'll get one to you!

Yours in Hiccups!

KT and Tenant

Little moments of preparation for the coming kiddo

2009-02-01T21:34:00.001-08:00

[sounds of a cat horking in the front room]

Honey, can you bring me some paper towels?

[pause]

HEY! Don't eat that!

Gift emergency! Video camera

2009-01-31T09:07:00.000-08:00

I just realized, with a start, that we don't own a video recording device of any kind.

I'm pretty sure there is a gulag someplace full of Dad's that failed to record moving pictures of their first born.

If anyone is stuck on the gift thing, a video camera (Flash type
or otherwise) would be a real, real good idea.

Thanks a ton,

The Incipient Father

Quickie update

2009-01-29T08:39:00.000-08:00

/wave!

Sorry to all of you who have been trying to get ahold of me. It's been crazy the last 2 weeks. We've been auditing out of the office (i.e. long days) most of the last 2 weeks. That included a 3 day jaunt to Bend to get an audit done.

It was FRIGGIN 17 degrees there as the HIGH for the 2 days we were there. Brrrrrr!!!

Saturday is a day long meeting in Seattle and next week is a Tues-Friday trip to Medford to get 3 more audits done. Tis the friggin season!

So, I haven't been calling folks, checking in, posting on my blog. I assure you no news is good news. I've been holding up fine and the CAMPAIGN TO EAT A WHOLE ELK IN 5 MONTHS is still going on schedule.

The anemia seems to be taking it in the shorts and I am feeling pretty perky. Monday, Feb 2. is the next BBdr visit and I'll see if I'm going to add another iron supplement then.

There's LOTS of wiggling going on most all times of the day and night now. And apparently I'm carrying "high". For all of you supersticious folks, that apparently means we're having a boy...or something that can cling high up on walls perhaps? Hmmm.....

Anyhoo...we're all good. And the 2nd coat of Cypress green on the center room of the house (aka "the red room") will be completed tonight. It's looking pretty good and the kittens have really enjoyed the jungle gym / tarp maze I created in there too.

So, tax season is on! I'll try to keep in better touch!

Swimmingly,

KT and Tenant

A note from The Husband

2009-01-23T20:17:00.000-08:00

First off, here is the recipe for that meatloaf mentioned below. I finally found it. I, of course, liberally adapted it, and more than doubled the recipe.

I have had a post brewing called "The Limits of Empathy" but you won't be getting that just yet. I'm merely checking in here.

It's quite informative and entertaining to read this blog, and especially when I'm mentioned. A chance to see yourself through your partner's eyes, what a revelation. Almost nothing I do or say in real life quite makes it to these pages without some serious tweaking and hyperbole on the part of my lovely wife, but then again most mentions are pretty glowing so who am I to complain.

Apparently, I'm quite a geek. I guess I knew this, but reading this blog has solidified this knowing.

I'm suddenly finding myself needing scads and scads of sleep, so will be hitting the sack with my worn-out wife at a stunning -- 8:23 on a Friday night. Partaaaayyyyyy.

This sleeping jag will be mentioned in the "Limits of Empathy" post, I assure you.

Be Well,

Bp

BBdr visit...I've lost count

2009-01-23T19:03:00.000-08:00

Hola!

Sorry for the lack of updates recently, work has been ramping up and I've been more into sitting with my feet propped up than sitting at the computer after work. I am sure not much will change in the coming months. CRAPOLA...we're at 2ish months now.

This visit to the awesome crack team at the BBdr's office brought the revelation that BOTH of the midwives will be at the birth right before the baby actually vacates one abode and enters this crazy little thing called life. That was very reassuring to know, but the house somehow now feels like it may be filled with lots of people. The BBdr (Dr. Sara herself), her intern (whose name I cannot remember...I think it's Anna) AND her partner in crime Dr. Mary, (who I hear is equally stellar AND an accupuncturist, WOOT!) will all be there along with BP and a few sundry cats.

Oh, and your's truly.

Feels a bit full over here, but that has been the predominate feeling as of late. Just getting bigger. And I hear we're just getting bigger still. Sheesh!

All systems are a go this visit. I am still (apparently) extremely anemic. The 10.6 number on the test has whipped The Lovely Husband (tm) into a frenzy of elk preparation. So much so that I came home on Wednesday to find the largest meatloaf in the universe being cooked in my oven with obvious intention for my ingestion etched into its being. The shit eating grin on BP's face (coupled with a deep look of serious concern/skepticism) alerted my oh so delicate "something is up alarm" and I did a bit of research.

Me: So...what's IN the world's largest meatloaf, dear?

BP: It's an ITALIAN meatloaf receipe! It has bacon in it! And is stuffed with cheese! It looks fantastic! And I ground up a bunch of sweetmeats along with the other stuff and it should be FULL of iron. Stuffed full!

Me: The only word in that sentence that makes my spider sense tingle is "sweetmeats".

BP: OH that's nothing...just *mumble, mumble, mumble*...but it's FULL of iron. I assure you just stinking filled with it.

WELL, true believers, like many other things that are COMPLETELY MISNAMED in this world, Sweetmeats are not the best parts of the butt of the elk, OH NO! Sweetmeats, in this case, would refer to the heart and kidney's of said animal...ground finely and dumped into a humungous meatloaf.

Despite my instant HEEBEES, I pressed on (for the baby, you know) and found that it was some really friggin' good meatloaf, 6 pounds of which is individually frozen and vaccuum sealed in the freezer for me. What a guy. Sneaky turkey.

BUT I DIGRESS...

The heartrate has moved to a steady 128 and apparently after some uterus BBdr handling, I am having a "lovely sized baby". At this point at least.

So, well into week 30 we are still quite good. The swelling in the legs, feet and ankles refuses to abate but I am sleeping through the night and having no other terrible symptoms. BP informs me that he's sure the baby knows when we are both in bed because he's been getting kicked like crazy when he gets into bed. I figure it's good for the baby and him to be bonding, even if it IS through the wall of me.

A bit of exhaustion is kind of par for the course this time of year, baby or no. Work has been very accommodating and we'll see how accommodating the WORKLOAD is after my next 2 weeks of traveling. I think the elk will keep me powering through.

February 14 is the first homebirth baby meeting at the BBdr's house. Supposed to be instructional and a "what to expect" kind of event. We'll also meet 6 other couples that are having kids within a month or so of our due date. That should be great! I'll keep you posted. We plan on bringing some elk dish, we'll see how folks like it.

So, there's the current news. I am painting a room in the house and getting ready to rearrange so the whole place is more accommodating for us to live in (like the guest room on the ground floor near the bathroom...for the guests you know!). Feels like the countdown has begun. Once the babyshower hits I should be in full crazy mode.

I'll check in next week when I get back from Bend but before I head to Medford (watch out Tom and Marcy!).

Love to you all,

Kt and Tenant

PS: To ANONYMOUS, the visit to the BBdr was amazing with the pleasant suprise of your donation. We love you and you rock! And we hope you are reading the blog so you can except our deepest gratitude and thanks. You don't know how much it means to us. We're paid off! kisses!!

Butternut Squash (wk 29) is a whole food!

2009-01-14T10:22:00.000-08:00

Ahh,Synchronicity!

Went to see Michal Pollen last night talk about food and all the issues that surround it politically, emotionally, environmentally. An interesting talk that got BP And I discussing future plans for the Tenant and food consumption. Moreover...WHERE and HOW to eat. (BP did a great write up with video over at his blog; The Institute of Jurassic Technology)

I remember sitting down to dinner every night with my folks and came to find out later that it was one of the things my dad felt was really important. I can't speak to the social dynamic that was created ( I remember some...er, tense-ness there) but I do think that coming together for meals is more than just eating. The creation of community must be intentional in order for it to stick, and I think that is especially poignant when you toss a small sponge into your dynamic.

I'll be interested to see what other things he has to say when I get around to reading a couple of his books. He makes an excellent case that most environmental issues can not be fixed without looking at how we farm. Monoculture, pesticide use, huge agro-business conglomerates deciding what to grow (commodities vs. whole foods) all add to the woes.

Currently, I've been eating way more MEAT, and could stand to down a few more portions a week given that I'm still pretty darned tired. When I cut out the sugar crutch the anemia stepped right up and walloped me! Sheesh! It's very interesting how much better I feel when I just eat more red meat. The supplements do what they can, but I think the iron in meat somehow gets in there better. Could be hokus-pokus!

Here's the pertinent stats for the Tenant...we have a BBdr visit on the 21st, which hearkens the introduction to my every 3 week visit schedule. Ooh...it also hearkens audit season! Woot! It's going to be a blurry run to the water breaking, I have a feeling.

Now THERE'S a way to freak out a client! AHAHAHAH (*cough)

Anyway!

How your baby's growing:
Your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds (like a butternut squash) and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. His muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and his head is growing bigger to make room for his developing brain. To meet his increasing nutritional demands, you'll need plenty of protein, vitamins C, folic acid, and iron. And because his bones are soaking up lots of calcium, be sure to drink your milk (or find another good source of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, or enriched orange juice). This trimester, about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in your baby's hardening skeleton each day.

Dang! That is a lot of Calcium! Perhaps that explains my Keifer cravings of the last few weeks. Hey, I learn stuff from these posts too, people!

I am looking forward to seeing as many folks as I can at the shower. It's been excellent and very exciting to reconnect with many a misplaced or rarely seen person over the last few months. I am excited to introduce this person to our vast and eccentric horde of aunties and uncles, not to mention there are a few grand parents out there who *might* take an interest in the child. PLEASE, if there is someone who we forgot to invite to the shower and you happen to be chatting with them, INVITE THEM! The more the merrier and the fewer hurt feelings due to my pregnancy brain not firing on all cylinders the better!

Swimmingly!
KT and Tenant

Newest belly pic

2009-01-08T09:26:00.000-08:00

Here ya go, belly and anomalous object. As promised.

Bp