Thursday, February 24, 2005

The Circle of Life

I guess there is a lot to say since this is my first official posting. I thought I would try to bring you all up-to-date on what has been going on in our lives. Please excuse the babbling.

Sadly, Sean's grandmother had a stroke on Feb. 7, so Sean and I took a last-minute trip to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin on Feb. 13-16. Unfortunately, she passed away on Feb. 18, and we were unable to return for the funeral. However, it was nice to be able to say our goodbyes in person. During the trip, we got to meet Molly's twins for the first time, and we had a wonderful time getting to know them. Thane and Taylor are just delightful! (see photo) It is interesting when you think about one life coming to an end and others just beginning. That is what it is all about, I suppose.

Being a native Texan, I did not much enjoy the frozen tundra of Wisconsin in February. When we got to the Milwaukee airport to head home, it was 23 degrees. When we arrived in Austin, it was 75! I immediately took off my multiple layers and shed my shoes. I think I would have jumped in a swimming pool if there had been one in my backyard (hmmm....what a good idea). Although it was great to see Mary, Molly, and the twins, I am glad to be in Texas.

Friday, Feb. 18, Tom and Cindy (a/k/a Grumpa and Bunny) came for a visit. Unfortunately, between the drastic change in temperature from Wisconsin to Texas and the germ-filled airplane, I was a little (okay, a lot) under the weather. I fear I wasn't the best hostess, but our guests were gracious none the less. We had a nice visit, some good food, and did a little shopping for the soon-to-arrive Olivia. After nearly an hour test driving strollers, Sean and Tom (with a little help from me, of course) decided on the Graco Quatro Tour Travel System. Cindy and I had much more fun picking out cute little girlie outfits for Miss Olivia.

Baby preparations are well underway. At the beginning of February, Helen and Jimmy (my parents) came to Austin for a wonderful working weekend. We completely overhauled one of the guest rooms and created the most beautiful nursery. I was not allowed to participate very much (darn), but Helen painted the entire room (including the ceiling). We choose a nice buttery yellow paint for the walls (official name "Song of Summer"), and Jimmy patiently replaced all of the baseboards, trim, and even hung crown molding, which we painted white. The result is magnificent. I will try to get some decent photos posted soon.

Only 3 months of pregnancy left to go! To Sean and me that seems like both a long time away and way too soon. I am going for a 3D ultrasound next Tuesday. I can't wait! I really wish I could have an ultrasound every month. It is so much fun to see a little person squirming around in there. Hopefully, with the 3D imaging, we will be able to get an idea of what Olivia is going to look like. Given that all of the existing grandchildren are absolutely gorgeous, I feel a lot of pressure to have a beautiful child too. I am sure she will be perfect, but since no one seems to have baby pictures of Sean they are willing to share, I sometimes get a little nervous. Just what are ya'll hiding?

Well, I guess that brings you all up to speed. Please feel free to post comments, and check back frequently as I am just learning all of the features and capabilities of this website. Later!