Jason and Anna's Family Adventures

Noah and Nolan

2010-05-25T19:07:00.000-07:00

thanks starlyn and dale for my poopie suit, so i can be like my daddy~

waiting for my daddy to talk to me on skype~

Noah's day of fun~

2010-05-25T18:42:00.000-07:00

about to roll over ...

yay!

nap time~

Happy Second Birthday Payton Hadley Farrell

2010-05-25T18:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl!

reality hits at jeff's air base

2010-05-22T06:17:00.000-07:00

It is scary to think of our men fighting in a war. To think of them in harms way, especially when you know someone who is where you read about. Jeff was woken up at 3 am to gun fire and caos. He said that it was crazy to be on the ground and see the jets fly over his head. 1 man killed, few injured from a suicide mission. Security Forces saved the day!

http://fayobserver.com/articles/2010/05/19/1000227?sac=Mil

http://www.foxnews.com/world/2010/05/18/insurgents-launch-complex-attack-bagram-air-field/

to our heroes in the desert

2010-05-20T18:32:00.000-07:00

DAVE

JEFF

DUSTIN

CLINT

2010-05-19T14:25:00.000-07:00

shannon and noah

andy and noah

starlyn and dale

haha, in miami with patti

patti

isabella

Happy Late Mother's Day Mom

2010-05-18T19:57:00.000-07:00

May the sun bring you new energy by day, May the moon softly restore you by night, May the rain wash away your worries, May the breeze blow new strength into your being, May you walk gently through the world and know its beauty all the days of your life.
-Apache blessing

i love you mom

Salute to GREG~

2010-05-18T11:19:00.000-07:00

greg is the first of us to deploy

Deployment Prayer
Dear Lord:
Give me the strength to say goodbye. Hold back the tear in my eye.
Cure my insomnia so that I may sleep alone. Give me a reason to awake when I’ve none.
Dear Lord:
Please help me pace myself. Allow me to turn to you for help,
And please let me be strong for him, Even if I’ve reached the brim.
Dear Lord:
Please make time go fast. I don’t know how long I can last.
This is the hardest time of my life, But this is my job: the soldier’s wife.
Dear Lord:
Let them all stay strong. Give them the will to go on,
And Lord, Please bring back all our men. In the name of our country. Amen.

~By Leanne Thomas~

mrs. ashley brooke jenkins rader

2010-05-18T10:47:00.000-07:00

to my

close friend

kappa delta twin

roommate

ashley brooke jenkins

now rader~

congratulations ashley and brad rader!

Congratulations Mrs. Ashley Cook Lowe~

2010-05-18T10:03:00.000-07:00

to my

dear friend,

sorority sister,

and new member of the wives club

... Ashley Cook

... now Lowe.

congratulations

ashley and rich

to a long life of happines~

happy 5 months~

2010-05-18T06:36:00.000-07:00

it has been i while since we have posted, and we have so much to catch you up on. first here is a picture of noah since he was born to show you how much this breastfed baby has grown~

New Years Day! 2 weeks old (above)

1 month old (above)

2 months old (above three pictures) top dog baby

panton baby~ thank you Col. Czupka for the blanket

3 months (above two pictures)

looking at mommie~ 3.5 months old

Happy Easter~ Thank you for my bib from the Wozniak Family! Almost 4 months old!

Happy 5 Months~

i can hardly believe that noah is 5 months old. we have traveled around the world and back, by plane, train, bus, taxi, and backpack. stay tuned for pictures of our recent travels

2010-03-28T21:34:00.000-07:00

cute little comb over

noah is happy about the car seat again...whoooohoo

Korean Fun!

2010-03-17T06:48:00.000-07:00

jason teaching noah how to brish his theeth!

isnt he handsome

and getting fat!

Soo, when we got to korea, noah and i basically slept

and slept

and slept some more

then he was one happy baby!

so was his daddy....

flowers for anna for our first anniversary~ march 7th

we went out for crab

first course

we are never quite sure what is in it!

but it always looks pretty

then came the crab, he is a monster

then the rest of the food

then some korean lady just took noah out of my arms

noah in his sweep outfit. a "sweep" is a goodbye party for the guys who are leaving to go on to their next assignment, and we celebrate sweeping them out the door!

and yes we have them too!

tired of being attacked by paparazzi

being cool and wearing shades inside with daddy

learning to eat from a spoon like a champ!

stay tuned....................

happy two months old and valentines day!

2010-02-19T16:10:00.000-08:00

i can hardly believe that noah is 2 months old. the time has flown by so fast. i am loving every minute of it. being a mom is the best gift in the world.

he coos and laughs at me now. he rolled over for the first time the other day. he sits all by himself in his bucket tub. i still have to hold him up out of the water sometimes. but he sits there and loves getting bathed.

this is the cutest beenie that erin got noah from a coworker of hers. he is still sucking that thumb.

well, we got a few flurries the other day.

lola had the best time playing in the snow.

and then warming by the fire.

my valentine flowers. thank you Jason!

Julie has made some of my pottery thanks to the Griffins, the Gemmells, the Bookers, and the Matthews!

goodnight.

Photos by Erin

2010-02-01T19:18:00.000-08:00

My sister in law is becoming quite the photographer, these are some of my favorites~

I can not believe that he was only two weeks old here. It is amazing how fast time passes...

Noah's Newborn Photography

2010-02-01T17:22:00.000-08:00

Maternity Photography

2010-02-01T16:23:00.000-08:00

friendly visits

2010-01-09T22:26:00.000-08:00

Julie and Jeremy with Noah

this is for you Ryan~

he is growing into his car seat

Meghan and I getting food prepared for the Alabama vs. Texas game!

NC friends

New Years

2010-01-09T20:59:00.000-08:00

Charlotte from Dave's Loft

Miss Payton Farrell

Greg and Jillian Farrell

Nikki and Dave

"wake me up when the ball drops"~

Happy New Year!

Christmas with the Kiggins

2010-01-09T20:29:00.000-08:00

Kiggins Family

Luke, Erin, Sarah with Noah and Ryan

Grandma Suz

Bath Time

Noah in his carrot outfit, haha

Tonka and Lola

~Merry Christmas~

2010-01-09T19:56:00.000-08:00

Jason and Sarge

Jason

Anna and her daddy

Anna

"enough with the camera"

on daddy's shoulder

on mommy's shoulder

Noah's Pediatrician, Dr. Diazio aka "Doogy Howser"

Noah at his 2 week appointment

Flowers from the Kiggins Family: Thank You

Noah and his Great Papa

Noah and Aunt Sharon

Noah and Great Uncle Jami

Noah and Uncle Al

they think they are getting something!

Lola after the night shift

Getting Noah's Birth Certificate

Amanda and Aaron

Noah with Great Aunt Ingrid

G-Ma reading the bible for Chirstmas Eve with the Avera's

Avera Celebration

Noah with Great Granddaddy Avera

Great Aunt Sue

Merry Christmas!

5 Days old!

2009-12-20T11:58:00.000-08:00

Wiggling around in Grandpa Curt's cradle

Grandpa Avera and Noah asleep on the couch.

Lola checking out her little brother, she is doing so well!

Checking him out again.

4 Days old!

2009-12-20T11:48:00.000-08:00

A few more good ones of Noah...

3 days old!

2009-12-20T10:50:00.000-08:00

Noah done with his circumcision and getting ready to go home, sorry buddy!

Getting all bundled up for the car ride home.

Mommy and son all ready to go!

She wanted to walk out, they said no. haha, getting a free ride to the car.

Using our PegPreggo car seat, all snuggled in!

Comfy and cozy.

The sign that Paige and Allen-Michael made and the crib Great Grandpa Curt made that is being passed down from great-grandchild to great-grandchild on the Coleman side of Jason's family....we love it!

45 hours old!

2009-12-19T23:29:00.000-08:00

Just a few pictures from my first day back with Anna and Noah, enjoy!

Anna holding our son two days after he arrives...And Jason made it home from Korea!

Trying to get Noah to feed. He prefers the left boob.

The green blanket was Jason's orginal baby blanket, passed on to his first son.

Again, he prefers the other one, but we'll give it a shot!

Daddy getting to hold his son for the first time at 45 hours old.

Sleeping on Daddy's shoulder.

What a perfect baby!

Our little glow worm.

Eyes open!

He looks right at you, it's amazing!

We had no idea this is what it was going to be like, and we can't be any happier than we are right now! Well, maybe with a little more sleep, our own house and rooms, and to live in the same place, but other than that....

Anthony Noah Kiggins

2009-12-15T23:43:00.000-08:00

December 14, 2009

10:41 pm

6 pounds 5 ounces

18.5 inches

after being all drugged up from being in labor, I am now ready for you to take my blood preop tests.

the first time i saw him

all cleaned up

Making Holiday Candy

2009-12-07T20:58:00.000-08:00

My grandmother, Mimi, was a famous cook among anyone who knew her. Every year she made me my favorites: cream puffs, millionaire candy and candied yams.

Here is my attempt to make her Millionaires:

Ingredients.

Caramel, your own recipe or packaged

Carnation Evaporated Milk

Pecans

Chocolate

Materials.

Wax Paper

Butter

Cookie Sheet

Double Boiler

1. Heat water in bottom of double boiler and melt caramel with milk until smooth.

2. Add nuts.

3. Butter wax paper and place on cookie sheet.

4. Take a fork and drop on buttered wax paper. Buttering the wax paper makes it easier to remove Millionaires when ready for dipping in chocolate.

5. Refrigerate/freeze over night to harden.

6. In double boiler melt the chocolate until smooth and dip ready.

7. Remove wax paper with Millionaires and place beside stove ready to dip. Replace cookie sheet with fresh wax paper to place Millionaires after dipped.

8. Take a fork to manage Millionaires and dip into chocolate.

7. Refrigerate overnight to harden before packaging.

Merry Christmas!

Maternity Photography for Christmas

2009-12-06T19:50:00.000-08:00

Jason wants me to get maternity photos taken before Noah pops out. These are some ideas of what he looked in to for. Ha, we will see how that goes, I meet with the photographer this week. I am a little excited.

Jason in Korea

2009-12-06T19:42:00.000-08:00

What to pack?

2009-12-04T15:21:00.000-08:00

Stork Bag

(me coming home from the hospital)

Even though we are not going to turn Noah on Monday, I have still packed my Stork Bag for the hospital. We are ready to go. We as in Jason, Noah and I. Since we are most likely going to have a C-Section whether I go into labor or not, we will be there for a few days. So to prepare us for this visit I have put together a Stork Bag to make our stay more comfortable.

For mommy, my bag includes:

1.) Little Giraffe Robe

2.) My grandmothers nightgowns and bed jackets

3.) Seamless Underwear, Body by Victoria

4.) Bravado Nursing Bras

5.) Medela Nursing Pads

6.) Medela Lanolin Nipple Cream

7.) Body Almond Oil

8.) Comfortable socks

9.) Ugg Outdoor Slippers for walking around the hospital

10.) Obvious Toiletries

Daddy Bag:
1.) Pajama Pants
2.) Ugg Outdoor Slippers
3.) Toiletries
4.) Earplugs
5.) Baby Book and Plaque to get Noah's footprints
6.) Camera and Video Camera

Noah's Bag:
1.) Gowns: I packed the Bon Bebe gown because it is warm and has the cuffs on the arm to go over his hands so that he will not scratch himself.
2.) Button tops with cloth diaper covers
3.) Jason's Baby Blanket
4.) Paci
5.) Bib
6.) Baby Books to read to him

I think that we are ready to go. We also want to give a special thank you to the Southern Pines Fore Department for inspecting and installing the car seat!

37 Weeks

2009-12-02T14:19:00.000-08:00

This is what I have been doing to try to get Noah to turn, no luck. So for Plan B.

Julie, mom and I went to my doctors appointment today and Noah is still breech.

Monday, this coming Monday, I have an appointment scheduled at the hospital to have an External Cephalic Version.

To avoid harm to Noah, an ultrasound and a heart monitor will be used to make sure the he is healthy through the whole process. For me, I will be injected with tocolytic medication to relax the uterus to prevent contractions. I hear that it is going to hurt, but will potentially allow me to have the possibility to have Noah naturally rather than having a C-section.

Here is what is going to happen in pictures:

1. The doctor will place his hands on the abdomen and begin to roll Noah forward, lifting him out of the pelvic bones.

2. Noah will be turned forwards or backwards.

3. Until he is head down and ready for delivery.

I have to admit I teared up when I heard that there is a chance that Noah could go into fetal distress and I would have to under anesthesia and Noah would be taken out.

The risks include:

Premature labor
Premature rupture of the membranes
A small blood loss for either the baby or the mother
Fetal distress leading to an emergency cesarean delivery
The baby might turn back to the breech position after the external cephalic version is done

I talked to Tami, the head nurse, and she told me about her experience to help be better make a decision for what to do. Her little girl was head down until she woke up one morning and she was breech. Tami knew that she had enough room to move, and it was her second child, so her stomach was a little more stretched than mine is. She told me that some babies are meant to be breech for a reason, and that turning him could cause harm if he has been in that position for a while.

Jason and I have a lot to think about. You might be seeing Noah sooner than we thought, or right on time! We will keep you updated on what happens.

Baby Carriers

2009-12-01T08:03:00.000-08:00

We have received several slings and carriers for Noah and will let you know more about their function and practicality as we use them. I have interviewed many of my mommy friends that are active and they recommended several carriers for different functions. I have provided you with carriers for simply wearing your baby close to you allowing you to be hands free, some for more active walking and function, to extreme outdoor adventures with the family. For more brands and carriers to check out that you might like even better than what I have received you can view and compare on www.childcarriers.com and www.pregnant.thebump.com

1. Serena and Lily Market Sling: Baby Wearing Function

This sling is stylish and machine washable. It holds up to 25 pounds and is going to be used for breast feeding and out on the town. The hammock-like carrier makes the baby feel as if he/she is still in the womb. This carrier can be purchased at www.serenaandlily.com.

2. BabyBjorn Air Carrier: Activity Function

This carrier is functional, light weight, breathable, great for being active and holds up to 25 pounds. I chose this carrier over the BabyBjorn Active carrier because even though it is for summer weather, I am a human heater. This way Noah will be more comfortable as I hold him close. For most of you the BabyBjorn Active might be a better choice. You can purchase any BabyBjorn carriers at www.babiesrus.com

3. Baby K'tan: Baby Wearing Function

The Baby K'tan is the most functional so far from my research. I bought this carrier for friends of mine a few years ago when they were beginning to have children and have loved it. I bought this carrier because it can be used from preemie up to 45 pounds and goes over both shoulders for extra support. There are 8 different positions for use, and can be viewed on www.babyktanvideo.com. You can purchase this carrier and find out more information on www.babyktan.com

4. Ergo Baby Carrier: Activity and Light Hiking Function

The Ergo Baby Carrier comes in soft organic fabrics and can be used from infant to toddler with inserts. I like how you can wear it in front when the baby is born, then on your back when you are walking and hiking, and on the side when they get older.

Here are the inserts that go in the carrier to help you as your baby grows:

Shoulder Sucking Pads

Infant Insert

Weather Cover

You can find out more about ERGO baby at www.ERGObaby.com. For the money, if not given as a gift, we would have gone with this carrier because it can be used for around the house, it is the best on my back with scoliosis, and it holds up to toddler. The Bjorn and Serena and Lily are more short lived, which leads to an upgrade later.

5. Deuter Kid Comfort III: Hiking Function

This is for Jason and I to carry on our hiking adventures. We both enjoy camping and hiking, and now that we have an addition to the family, we needed something that would be comfortable and functional for more serious and extreme outdoor activity for the baby. There are many brands that have framed hiking backpacks for kids that are just as good and also hold up to 50 pounds.

If you are looking to get someone a carrier for Christmas, any of these carriers would be a great gift!

Baby Countdown

2009-11-30T21:10:00.000-08:00

The days are getting closer and closer that Noah will be here with us. In preparation for him to be here I have put everything in its place and put together my hospital bag. I posted earlier a few of my favorite things, well we will see when I actually use them. Some of you moms out there have thanked me for introducing you to my finds, and I am excited to be of help. I will be posting each day different finds that are in My Favorite Things:

1. aden + anais swaddling muslin blankets

The practice of swaddling goes back nearly as far as human history, itself. The oldest archaeological evidence of mothers swaddling their babies begins in 4000 B.C. with the migrating peoples of ancient central Asia. The ancient Greeks and Romans swaddled. There are even biblical references to the practice.

Swaddling’s ability to soothe and calm babies has been known to mothers around the world for countless generations. But while the evidence of its benefits has been clear to women for thousands of years and across every continent, today we can turn to science for proof that swaddling is one of the most gentle, effective, and beneficial practices for mothers and their children.

In 2002, the medical journal Pediatrics published a study that explained why babies who are swaddled sleep more peacefully by preventing spontaneous movements (called reflex motion) from waking them up continually during the night. The same year, the Journal of Applied Physiology wrote that swaddled infants stay in REM sleep (the most restorative, deepest sleep) longer than those who were not. There is growing evidence every year that swaddling may indirectly help prevent SIDS, as well.

Swaddling is said to be as familiar to babies as it is to thier moms because it recreates the secure and cozy feeling of the womb -- and using swaddles made of natural cotton muslin only enhances that blissful feeling. Muslin is a finely-woven breathable fabric believed to have originated in Bangladesh during the Middle Ages. It's delicate, yet durable weave, makes the fabric stretchy, and therefore ideal for swaddling, as the natural give" allows the blanket to be tucked snuggly around a baby without being overly restrictive.

The lightweight muslin also permits air to circulate around the baby's body, while still providing comfort and warmth without the worry that the baby may overheat in moderate weather. Cotton muslin is also a workhorse fabric, in that wraps woven from this natural fiber stands up to repeated washings only becoming softer -- and better -- with age.

Of course, all the scientific evidence in the world is no substitute for the experience of millions of Mothers through uncountable generations: that swaddling in muslin is one of the most loving, gentle, restorative acts a mother can perform for her child.

(information and products can also be found on their website www.adenandanais.com)

How to swaddle:

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-29T07:38:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was amazing at my Uncle Will's House. I finally got to spend the holiday with my family, and Jason was in Korea with his base family. Thanks to all of you that took care of him and fed him two feasts.

Main House

Front View

Guest House

Barn

Inside Barn

Basketball Court

Upclose View of Court

Aunt Em, Dad, Granddaddy, Uncle Charles, Aunt Sue

Guest Cabin

Backyard to horses

Painting Studio

Back Porch Right Side

Back Porch Left Side

Aunt Ingrid, Wes' Girlfriend, Wes Miller

New Outdoor Fireplace

Uncle Will, Maggie, Matthew, Uncle Charles

Me and Uncle Andy

Food Line

Aunt Em and I

Sitting Room

Granddaddy keeping warm by the fire

Olivia, Ashley, Carrie Dale

Brandi and Matthew (First Avera Great Grandbaby)

Uncle John, Jackson, Allen-Michael

Jason in Korea

Noah at 32 weeks

2009-11-23T07:10:00.000-08:00

he is licking.

parts are marked

his leg is in front of him, his hand is in his mouth. poor thing is stuck.

push it up pantons!

he has jason's legs, haha!

DBAP! (*for all of you pantons out there)

By the way, Jason is a Panton in Korea, for all of you who have not a clue what I am talking about. Some of the saying are sayings by the Air Force.

still sucking his thumb.

look at those lips. those are going to be good kissing lips one day lady babies out there.

34 weeks and 5 days...

2009-11-23T06:51:00.000-08:00

his leg and boy parts

he sucks his thumb

2009-11-10T18:36:00.000-08:00

baby showers

Tampa Baby Shower

hosted by Sarah Harris soon to be Kiggins

the coordinator, Sarah Harris

what is so funny about this is, I was the Little Red Hen in my first play! That video will be posted pne day on here.

Thank You Grandpa Curt!

LeAnna made the cake!

They all made Noah bibs

Grandmother Susan

Great Grandma Rusty Kiggins

what Jason is doing

getting Noah ready for Christmas

baby basket gift

framed for the nursery.

we miss you guys!

Jason and his new Do!

32 Weeks

2009-10-31T11:00:00.000-07:00

I went in Thursday for my checkup, and go to see the baby again. this was a measurements ultrasound, and the baby is too big to really see anything. I am not going to tell you his current weight, but I will tell you that it is in the 16%.

He is 17 inches long, and I think has Jason's nose. He was moving his lips, sticking out his tongue, and I think mom and I saw him smile. I can not wait to see my baby in person.

our little monkey

Look at those lips!

He is sitting Frank Breech right now

Chena Hot Springs, Alaska

2009-10-31T06:58:00.000-07:00

Sled Dogs for the Yukon Quest

Jason's favorite with the blue eyes. Hmmm, he said he wanted a husky for Lola, but I want a Golden.

the puppies only came out for us :)

I was so happy we got that hot chocolate. It was good there, and I have had some good hot chocolate. The peppermint kind that Jason's mom got us from Sam's is up there.

The F-15 pilots at the hot springs? I could not see our single guys doing that.

In the Ice Museum. The world champions were inside sculpting when we got there. They met at a competition, and started dating after she beat him. She won the whole thing.

Ice Bar

"Green House Prom Picture"

Baby Bump in Alaska

2009-10-31T06:32:00.000-07:00

Eielson Idle Night!

Pedicures

MOOSE!

Moose Crossing

Reindeer

"Lady of the Lake"
A sunken World War II B-29 Bomber used for exercises!

These are a few of my favorite things...

2009-10-08T21:05:00.000-07:00

1. Kidishes: 100% recyclable, great in the dishwasher, and microwave-friendly. Indestructible tempered glasses, bowls, and plates. When Noah repeatedly subjects the dishes to his patent-pending “High Chair to Hardwood” stress test, I think that this video below will speak for itself.

2. Natursutten BPA, Phthalates Free Pacifiers

No allergy causing substances such as the protein known to cause latex allergies.

Molded into one piece; no dirt, germs or bacteria hiding in the cracks.

Two sizes for the growing baby. Softer than silicone. So flexible that it comfortably follows the natural movements of babys mouth.

No shield marks on the face.

Natursutten is the only all-natural rubber and one piece pacifier. That means no chemical softeners, parabens, PVC or phthalates, no allergy causing substances, and no places for dirt and bacteria to hide. They have no BPA, no allery causing substances such as the protein that can cause a latex allergy. This is removed during the manufacturing process.

Natursutten pacifiers are made from the Hevea brasiliensi tree. With their natural quality in mind, the Natursutten pacifier will change color over time and it is recommended that it be replaced every four to five weeks.

3. Sophie the Giraffe

Sophie is a natural teether handmade in France with all natural flexible rubber and non-toxic paint. No chemicals softener; parabens, PVC, phtalates, BPA (bisphenol-A) and nitrosamines in Sophie. She is a safe alternative to plastic teether.

Sophie the Giraffe is lightweight and easy to grasp, and easy on teething gums.

Dilly Dally

2009-09-05T06:50:00.000-07:00

Since Jason is not able to help me pick out things for Noah, I decided that I would take my parents along. Dilly Dally of Raleigh is a nook of baby treasures. I am so thankful my dad took the camera to capture of all my favorite finds. Putting together a registry takes a lot of thought, more than I realized. You might love how soft the fabric of a rocking chair feels, but as soon a baby spits up, milk spills, crumbs find residence in the crease of the cushions, you don't want to take it to the dry cleaners.

This is Katie, she will be happy to help you with anything you want to know! She is busy at work taking notes on everything that made me gasp.

I like practical, functional, comfortable, and easy. Easy, that is an understatment. As I ran my fingers across all the perfectly pressed linen I thought of where my life will be in five years. I will hopefully be a mother of two, with the third on the way, by myself in an airport trying to get us to our next adventure. Then I thought, I need storage, organization, easy to carry by myself while carrying an entourage. In my first experience in Dilly Dally I was introduced to the Orbit Baby.

I love how you can rotate the car seat in the car and in the stroller, any way you want your baby to face. I want to be able to take Noah out of the car, without waking him, take him in the house, or place him on the stroller. The downside is there is zero storage, and does not have a double stroller feature. Two different strollers with one person pushing most of the time, I do not think so.

.

So we were then introduced to the Uppababy. The Uppa baby system is able to hold up to three children at once, with the attachments. It has an enormous amount of space in the bottom. Allows a car seat to click in and rotate to the front or to the back. Folds with the use of one hand. It was like a beam of light came down when we saw what it could do. This will be my savior for the next several years.

So for our basic necessities: Stroller, check. Car seat, hmmmm, which one should we get? That will be another trip to Babies R Us to figure out that one. Our options are the Graco (SnugRide, SafeSeat, or SnugRide 32; Chicco (Keyfit); or Peg Perego (Primo Viaggio or Primo Viaggio SIP). Any of these care seats are compatible with the Uppababy stroller system.

As soon as I saw the green fabric I knew I wanted whatever it was. Serena and Lily make this Prague Market Sling, and they come in a variety of colors. They run out of smalls fast, so I am keeping my fingers crossed. There is only one left in the store, and of course I pick the limited edition one. But, if the green one goes, the gray one is super cute too!

I love these cribs! I dont know whether I was the wooden with white, or the black iron. I love the black iron one!

I love this high chair. But not for $500, no way.

I wonder if I can find one like that at Goodwill and paint it?

Bedrooms and Lettering

My dad really loved this name brand 'petunia pickle bottoms'.

This is a definate must-have item!

What are these?

="

Oh my goodness, look how cute this is.

How cute is this monkey pacifier thing? When they are done with the pacy, you take it off and they have a monkey.

I love these Shaggy Raggy Rugs.

Look at these birthday hats. I have to get one of these!

I really like this tooth fairy adventure guy.

But Jason would really like this Pirate one. He secretly wants to be a treasure hunter.

These linen/cotton cloths are a MUST HAVE!

You can use it for playtime, blankets, picnic in park with baby, changing. Machine Washable.

I get so excited when I see baby clothes.

My favorite sign.

That was a fun trip.

Anthony Noah Kiggins

2009-09-04T20:34:00.001-07:00

We are counting down the days for our first baby boy to arrive. Time has flown so fast from when we found out that we were having a baby.

Originally, we planned to get married in North Carolina, June thirteenth, the same day that my parents got married. At the same church in Tar Heel, tucked under the Magnolia trees. Go to Julia's afterwards for a hometown outdoor reception, with BBQ under dogwood trees, and candle-lit lanterns. Maybe around two o'clock - until it ends. I have been planning that wedding since I met Jason.

Before Jason, I thought that I might have loved. Tried to imagine what my life would be like if I ended up with them. Most girls think that way, at least I think they do. But I had never been able to actually visualize that far with anyone. I could never see the face of anyone I have ever dated on the groom at the end of the aisle. He has always been a blurry face. Then, I spent six hours on the phone with Jason and never wanted to let him go. After our first weekend, I never wanted to hold another hand, except the hands of our children. After our first kiss, I couldn't imagine my life without him, or his kisses. He is more, than anything I have ever wanted. He has more than my unrealistic qualifications for the perfect man. I had often foolishly lowered my standards, rather than have people in my life rise to meet them. Maybe that is why I could not see my life with anyone until Jason.

I always think life can never get any better. But I am always proven wrong. Every day is better than the last, with Jason. I could not wait for him to tell me that he loved me. I remember a conversation that we had in October. It was the first time that I sang for him. I was standing on the back porch of my brother's town house in Boone, during Appalachian State homecoming weekend. It is beautiful in Boone in October. The leaves are just starting to change, and there is a crisp chill in the air, telling you that it is almost time for hot chocolate and hot apple cider. We had only been dating for almost two months and Jason told me that he thought a year, dating, would be a good time to be engaged. It was when I knew Jason and I were in love. I remember the words "i love you" blanketed my mind as we said goodnight. (I sang "Three Stars Will Shine Tonight", the theme song from 'Dr. Kildare'. My mother and I used to sing and play the piano to this song while I was growing up.)

That New Years Eve, we were sitting quietly on the ski lift in Alaska. It was a long ride to the top of the mountain. My first 'I love you' was screaming to get out to him. But I never let it break out. The first I love you card was in his possession. Nothing happened.

A month later, I surprised Jason by flying down to Texas for his birthday. I had Patty pick me up from the airport. We planned a pizza dinner with his friends at the local pizzaria. I walked in thinking that he would see me, but his back was turned. I walked up behind him and waited until he turned around to see me. He looked twice before he registered that it was me. I thought his smile was going to stretch off his face when he hugged me. That night he surrendered and whispered "i love you" in my ear as he watched me sleep. The first time I heard him say it was the next night. My head was laying on his chest, and we were snuggling as close as we could get to each other before I saw him off to survival training in the morning. It was that night that I saw His face on the groom in my dreams. Standing at the end of the aisle. Looking at me as if he had never seen anything so beautiful.

A few months later he asked me to move to Arizona with him. I was ready to leave Nashville, and to start my future with Jason. This was an unsupported decision I made, among many. My family wanted me to be engaged before I moved my life across the country with someone. They thought that I was crazy to take that chance without a formal commitment. I understand old fashioned morals, I try to live by them. I just wanted to be with Jason for longer than a weekend before I sealed the rest of my life to him. I did not want to rush into an engagement, just to have an insurance policy on Jason's intentions. I knew what our intentions were, and they were honorable.

After three months of not being able to find a job, I started to wonder when I was going to be taken care of. I had given up my income, my families approval, and was working at a tanning salon and living with my boyfriend. We talked everyday about getting married and what we wanted for our future. But the months went by with only talk and no ring. Reality of my decision to move there hit me a little harder. Finally Jason took me to the store to to pick out my ring. He had been researching before we ever moved for what he wanted to put on my finger. He had already been to the store and picked three rings that he thought I might like, from what I described I wanted. I realized when I saw the rings he chose that men need pictures, not descriptions. The rings were put back under the glass, and I began to skim until what I saw the ring I had drawn in my mind. I found two that were exactly what I wanted.

The weeks were flying by and I was getting restless with excitement to see which one Jason had chosen.

Meanwhile, we find out that for the next three years we are going to be newly weds dancing in Rome. I thought it was better than "too good to be true". And it was. Only a week of our perfect plan, dream wedding and assignment were real. Jason had lost our spot to Italy in exchange for an unaccompanied year in Korea. (One of the guys broke his arm, who was supposed to go to Korea, and instead of taking away Korea, the stupid Air Force Personel Center took away Italy). We were devistated. We were now going to have to live our first year of marriage on opposite ends of the earth. Not to mention, I was no longer going to be able to have the North Carolina wedding that June. Jason was leaving earlier than if we were going to Italy, and we had no time after his graduation to have a wedding before he left.

I was trying to stay positive and think about how lucky we are that Jason is going to Korea now, rather than when we have a family. We decided that we were going to put starting a family on hold for another year.

Much like my impatience to hear "i love you", was my yearning for "marry me", only ten times worse. He came home early and told me that he wanted to go into Phoenix for dinner. I knew this was it. When did Jason ever come home early? When did Jason ever come home early wanting to take me out to dinner in the middle of the week? I knew something was up, but I acted like I was not expecting anything. We went downtown, and ate at Chuck Box Hamburgers. After eating, Jason asked me to go on a walk. But then directed me to the car. I was confused, but went along. We drove maybe a block when I saw the Lion King bus. "We are going to see the Lion King?" Jason smiled and said nothing as he drove into the parking lot and parked. He got out and went for his pocket. I felt like everything was slow motion, and I took what seemed like a ten minute swallow. Then I saw a sheet of paper come out. Dang it. "Anna, will you go to the Lion King with me?" I was so excited about going to my first Broadway play, that I tried not to act dissappointed with the question.

It was the most awkward hour waiting for the auditorium doors to open. Jason took me to sit beside a wishing fountain while we waited. It was an awkward silence that we have never really experienced. I was waiting for it to happen any minute, and he was sweating, and gripping to the ring box under his jacket, trying to remember what he had thought he would say. The moment passed us by, we went in to get to our seats. The whole time I was getting more and more nervous. I was sure that he was going to do it. Omg, the animals are coming down the aisles. No way, could Jason be that good. Is the giraffe going to bend over to me and give me a box? The curtain closed and Jason and I started for the car. We rode home listening to the sound track of the show in silence. I was holding back the tears, and wondering if Jason was not ready.

The next day came and started to end. Jason and I had our normal two for one movie night at Westgate, and then headed home for bed. Our pillow talk started heavy, with the discussion of what we needed from one another as a spouse. We talked until three a.m. and still wide awake, took a blanket and made a pallet in the field in front of our house to talk under the stars. I am looking up at the seven sisters when Jason turns to kiss me, but instead pulls out a little white box. He gets up on one knee, and smiles. "I love you, will you marry me?"

We had only been married a week, when I started to finally start planning. First thing was a date. Erin had just announced her wedding date for May, Ryan and Jason's graduation was also in May, that was out. April, nope booked. March, OMG it is already February. There were only two weekends in March that we could get married. So the planning for our Las Vegas wedding began. Luckily, I already had a ticket to go to 'Running of the Brides' in Boston with Julie at the end of February to get my dress. I did not know if I would find what I wanted. Julie found it, and it was exactly what I wanted, and for only $250. Everything was falling into place perfectly.

I think God laughs at a plan, especially when he knows what is coming.

A month and a half later, I was playing in a CRUD tournament, which we won, and no matter how much red bull I drank, I thought I was going to pass out. I had to run to the bathroom to tinkle every five minutes. I just had a feeling that something was different.

The next night, while Jason was playing poker, I took a pregnancy test. Just one of those first things you do to eliminate that funny feeling. I watched as an immediate one line turned into two. I thought, this is just an old test. That can not be right. Or Yaz is due for another commercial recall.

Lola and I hopped into the car and drove to the grocery store where I bought every kind of pregnancy test they had, just to make sure that I could read the perfectly plain-as-day instructions. After five positive pregnancy tests, I was convinced that all birth control were a placebo. I could not believe that I was pregnant.

My first thought was extreme joy that everything I ever wanted was all in my hands. The perfect husband, the perfect dog, and now a baby.

My mind was rushing with one thought after another: What would it look like? Is it bad to call it an it? What will Jason say? I am going to be a mother. I am going to be a mother without a husband for a year. Am I going to have this baby alone? What will Jason think about Korea now? Maybe it is good that he is going now, and not when it is in Kindergarten, or t ball. How will Lola react to a baby? Will my parents still let me move home with them?

It was only eight o'clock and I was dying to tell Jason our news. I called him to see when he was planning on coming home. He said that he was losing and about to round up. Luckily for my impatience, he started winning after and stayed for another three hours. When I finally heard the garage door opening, I tried as hard as I could to act normal. I told him I had a surprise for him. "Close your eyes and hold out your hands". I placed all of the pregnancy tests in his hands and the first thing he said was, "eww you peed on these?" Haha, and then a quick, "I am going to be a dad", with the biggest smile, much like the one that greeted me at the alter.

It was hard not to tell anyone at first, but then it was exciting to have a secret just between the two of us, that only the two of us knew. It is exciting to see how ga-ga my mother gets taking down the boxes of all the old baby keepsakes she saved, from both my brother and I, and herself. She bought a blanket with Noah's Ark years ago, with the name Noah written across the bottom. How perfectly things work out. Jason's family started a pool that is still in progress if you would like to participate, www.kigginsgrandbabies.blogspot.com.

We have been blessed with our family of talent. Jason's sister is the eye behind the camera of all our baby bump pictures, and some of our wedding photography. His mother makes the most amazing quilts, which I can not wait to see what is in store for Noah's nursery. Jason's grandfather was a carpenter, and made the crib that Noah will sleep in. His brother is going to be the cool uncle GI Joe. Sarge will always have a helping hand and will keep him on schedule. My brother will teach them how to wash a car, so that it looks as if you just drove it off the lot. My mother has the gift of song, which I hope is passed down along with her piano ability to our children. Jason loves the sound of a piano. My father is an artist, a builder, and an entertainer. I laugh when I say entertainer, because it is entertaining when he goes into a crowd and is completely himself, which is how you should always be, I think.