Backing Up!

Okay so I knew I was a bad blogger, but I didn't think I would be this bad. It's now the end of November and I am just putting up picture from October. Bare with me people, I know I'm not as bloggerific as my sister, but I'm trying...I'm trying.

Last we spoke, Price had just received his 2 month shots (bandaid pictures are in this album). He recovered quite well, only running a slight fever the day afterwords. He is now due for his 4 month round on December 10th. I would ask you to pray that Price be okay through them, but instead pray for Tyler and I to make it without any emotional damage.

Price has become this wonderful little bundle of personality over the past month or so. He smiles for everyone, except the camera. He continues to grow like a weed, hence he's still eating every two hours. Though, he has decided that when mom's around he'll eat as often as I will allow. Weekends he tries to "catch up" I think.

Tyler is well in to basketball season and busting his butt to balance work, basketball, college, and Price and I. He's doing a fabulous job I might add. I know it's more difficult for him than us, but we three are cherishing every moment we have together when those moments come around.

We're all looking very forward to the holidays with family and friends. Price is working on sitting up unattended so he can tackle opening his own presents on Christmas morning. Aunt Aubrey, Uncle Nick, Ella, and Little Bean Pettyjohn are all in for Thanksgiving, so we are all just loving watching Ella and Price interact with one another. Price is more interested in Ella than the other way around, though E enjoys "beep beep"ing Price's nose when given the chance. Aunt Rachel also drove in yesterday and can't believe how much Price has grown since she last saw him. Tyler, Price, and I are just so happy to have everyone here, we love our families so much.

These pictures are from the month of October, if I keep on this pace, you may see pictures from November next month. :D What you all don't know is that this is my evil plan to keep you coming back for more.

October 08

Stinky Shots & New Tricks

Each and every day Tyler and I believe that we love Price more than the day before, which apparently is a very normal parental feeling. After two months of this increasing love we were getting pretty used to the incremental changes. It wasn't until this Tuesday that we experienced dramatic surge that caught us both off guard. Price got his first 3 shots.

When we got to Dr. Bowen's office Price was happy and kicking, smiling and sucking. He was great while we learned he was 12 lbs. 6 oz. and 24 inches long. He loved laying, in only his diaper, on the observation table while smiling at the uninteresting taupe ceiling (apparently Dr. Bowen doesn't need fans to entertain Price). He coo'ed while Dr. Bowen listened to his murmur, felt of his tummy, and stretched his legs. Then it happened...the nurse arrived, 3 shots in hand. Mommy was already nervous, but put on a strong face for her baby. Daddy sat on the table and touched his little head for support. You would've thought the world was coming to an end as the medicine was injected. To make a long story short, mommy had to leave the room and daddy was SHOCKED at how difficult it was to watch.

After the sobbing died down, Tyler and I were more worn out than Price. All either of us wanted to do was hug and kiss the fire out of him for the rest of our lives. When we told our parents about our adventure, they all smiled and nodded knowingly. As a result I have decided Price will not be playing sports EVER, or go outside EVER, or stand on tall objects EVER. He will live in a bubble for the rest of his life so nothing will hurt him...okay maybe not, but someone needs to PLEASE tell me that your heart doesn't break with every painful cry of your child. Otherwise, I'm not sure I'm cut out for this job. :D

On the up-side, Price has been smiling up a storm, and not just at ceiling fans any longer. And Wednesday he learned how to make a clicking noise with his tongue. He loves it, the new discovery entertains him when he's bored. He's getting more fun every day, larning and smiling all the time. I think God created all this fun to reasure parents that no matter how hard it gets (aka subjecting your kids to shots, etc.) these are the things that make you certain you CAN handle this amazing job.

Enjoy the pictures.

Price Owen 2 Months

Weeks 5-7

These past two weeks have been so crazy and jammed packed full of exciting events it's been crazy. The biggest being Chris and Denise's move back to Oklahoma. We don't know what to do with all this family around now. It's too cool for words, and Price is LOVING all the attention. The Methodist church has been amazing to Chris and Denise, welcoming them with open arms and lots of food. Tyler and Chris have also already spent an OU Saturday together like old times. Ahhh, it's wonderful.

Last blog I mentioned Price and my upcoming appointments in OKC. Price's cardiology appointment went well. In a nutshell, he does have a hole between the left and right ventricals however it has already begun to heal itself, so Dr. Baker said his chance of needing surgery is only about 20%. Good news for the little one. My appointment was pretty uneventful, but I was told everything looked great and was given the clean bill of health I was expecting.

Price has begun to smile a lot, primarily at ceiling fans, but that's okay. It's hard to catch him at exactly the right time to give you a great idea of how wonderful his grin is, but the pictures below are our best shots. Along with smiling, Price is still doing well at holding his head up on his own (it's a big noggin to hold up so this is BIG). He's getting fatter and fatter each day, which is evident in his thighs, arms, neck, and belly. He's just a wonderful little guy to have around the house, Tyler and I are officially going to keep him. Enjoy the pictures.

One Month Old

That's right Mr. Price Owen turned one month old on Thursday at 3:17 pm. Though we were in Homeland shopping at the exact time, I still whispered the Happy Birthday song to him while he slept. While walking down the cereal isle for the Fiber One cereal (now necessary for mommy and her well being) it was hard to believe I was in labor only a short month ago. Though it feels like just yesterday at times, it also seems that I've had Price in my life for years.

He's begun to smile a lot more lately. He's definitely recognizing Tyler and my voice and turns his big noggin to find where we are. He's a master at lifting his head, though it never lasts over 30-45 seconds each time. Price has become so much more aware and awake at the world, every day he finds something new. OH, and he absolutely LOVES being outside in the evenings.

Next week Price has his Pediatric Cardiology appointment in OKC and mommy has her 6 week. Hopefully both appointments go great and we leave with a clean bill of health. Our prayer is that his murmur is already healed and we won't need to go back, but for maybe a 6 month check-up.

The pictures we've taken are all just candid shots of him in his favorite places, the swing, his changing table, mommy's legs, the Boppy, and stretched out on the ottoman. Enjoy the album!!

Price Weeks 4 & 5

Price at 2 Weeks & Ella's Birthday

Whew...that's all I can say. It's been a CRAZY past 3 weeks with having a baby, entertaining family, going to pediatric apointments in OKC, Tyler starting school, etc. etc. I think we're all somewhat ready for things to get back to normal, though I know it will be a new normal.

Price is getting bigger and older everyday, weighing 9 lbs. at his 2 week apointment. When his eyes are open he looks at least 1 1/2 months old, but thankfully with his eyes closed (which is most of the time) he still looks like a baby boy. Meridith Smith says his eyes are those of an "old soul". If this is the fast pace his little life is going to go, I'm thinking about investing in a time machine. I'm sure there are plenty of parents that would agree with me, and probably go in with me.

Price is still sleeping well, starting off for a good 4-5 hours, then 2-3 hours after that. Mom and Dad have developed a good system for the late night feedings and changings, so we're all learning how to live in harmony. Though we're getting a good amount of sleep for just having a new baby, mom and dad are still coping with the new sleeping routine.

Price is still getting a load of visitors, which is greatly appreciated. Everyone is amazed at how much he's grown and how much older he looks. The album below features Ella's birthday party at Grandpa and Nana's house before she left and obviously plenty of pictures of baby Price Owen. Enjoy!

Price 2 Weeks & Ella's Birthday

The First Week

We've learned a lot this week. From 2 hour feedings and 1st baths to sleep positions and changing baby boy diapers, it's been a lot to soak in for the new Mom and Dad. Greatfully, we've had some wonderful help from Grandparents and Sisters, so it's been a relatively smooth transition. Price is teaching Tyler and Kara, and vice-versa.

This parenting thing is no walk in the park, but it's sure worth every little loving nuzzle and half-sleepy smile (which Great Great Grandma Thelma would describe only as gas). I think it's a smile, so it is. People keep telling me that kids are great, but grandkids are even better. I don't know how this could be true, this is amazing!!

After getting home from the hospital we took our first outing to Yukon for his 1st pediatric appointment. His little Jaundice was gone, and his heart murmur is getting better. We will see a pediatric cardiologist in September, but his pediatrician said it's NOTHING to get worried about, the 5mm hole is classified as a "small" murmur and will most likely heal itself.

After the doctor appointment we went to visit the new Summer's Family. Jamie and Travis's little girl Caitlyn was gorgeous and happy as a lark the whole time we were there. Jamie, who delivered Caitlyn 2 hours before Price was born, was doing wonderful after a scarry labor complication. Luckily everyone pulled through wonderfully, and they're all doing great now. Jamie and Travis are just as proud of their little one as we are. It's neat to be going through exactly the same emotional changes as another couple. It makes for fun story swaps.

Price hit his first growth spurt at 7 days old. He ate every two hours for 24 hours!! More difficult for mommy than Price, but we're through it and have gotten into a good routine. The 12 feedings will be the reason he's up to 10 pounds now. The added fat has made his looks change daily, so we're sure to take at least one picture a day to keep track of his progress.

Uncle Nick flies in Friday to spend some quality time with his nephew Price Owen, though his wife and baby are just as excited to see him as everyone else. Once Nick gets here, Price will have met all of his immediate family, along with all of his Great Grandparents and one of his Great Great Grandparents. It's AMAZING how loved that little one already is.


Enjoy the 113 photos. :S Sorry there are so many, we've become a little picture happy over the past few days. :D What?!? We have an adorable baby to take pictures of, you'd do it too.

Baby Price's First Week

We want to say thank you to everyone who has stopped by, sent flowers or gifts, and made dinner for us. It's been a HUGE help, and we appreciate it emensely.

HE'S HERE!!!

That's right everyone, Price Owen Locke is FINALLY here!!! He was born yesterday, July 28th at 3:17 pm (nod to Uncle Joe), weighed 8 lbs, and was 22 inches long. We went in to Lakeside at 5:30 am and started Pitocin at 6, so 9 hours in all, which made Mommy very happy. Starting off, he gave us all a little scare, basically he wasn't getting enough oxygen which isn't uncommon, but it took him a good 5 minutes to get a good cry out. For all you baby lingo people, he only scored a 2 at his initial Apgar test, but at 5 minutes he was up to a 7, then a 9 at 10 minutes.

Mom's doing great, a little tired, but super pleased with the results. Dad's just as happy as can be, he's got a mini-me now. Price looks JUST like Tyler's baby pictures, but he definitely has Mommy's ears and long legs.

Here are some pictures from the momentus day. More will come, Mom is determined to take some better pictures of herself and him together. Enjoy!!

Price Owen's 1st & 2nd Day

Induction Date Set!!

We made it to our final prenatal appointment yesterday, and much to my Doctor's surprise we were still pregnant and no further along than we were last Wednesday. So, she decided to schedule our induction for Sunday evening!! It's awesome to know that by end of day Monday or early Tuesday morning Price Owen WILL BE HERE!!!

Grandpa Chris and Grandma Denise decided to drive on in last night and made it to our house around 12:30am. We're now all beginning to plan for Price's arrival together. Aubrey and Ella will also be getting here on Sunday afternoon, so we'll have at least a few hours together before the induction.

We're all very excited, and between my occasional panic moments of "He's REALLY going to be here" I am extremely ready!! Just wanted to give everyone the update. We hope to have a fun family weekend so check back soon for some pictures.

Side note: For the record, Uncle Rip and his maternity photo shoot for Tyler and I kicks ANY Blunck's photo shoot's butt hands down. If you can convince Tyler, you're welcome to see the proofs from our shoot, but I'm affraid that will be more difficult than ANYONE thinks!! :D

Wishin', and Hopin', and Planin'...

Today is the day the Grandpa Chris's picked and I'm soooo hoping they are right. Though we would never hear the end of how they FIRST predicted that Price was a boy from the early early stages, and SECOND how they predicted the day he would be here. A small price to pay for getting him here though in my opinion. I've kept having contractions since last Wednesday's fiasco, with the intensity level increasing yesterday. So, maybe, just maybe we'll see some progress today or tomorrow.

This past weekend Tyler and I had to get out of the house to get our minds off of every little contraction, so we decided to have a date night at White Dog. We were expecting the usual 2 hour dinner, but White Dog has sped up. We were in and out in under an hour!! Not the distraction we were hoping for, but it was still wonderful. We took pictures to keep our final "no-child date" frozen in time.

Sunday Nana Kate and Grandpa came over to help distract us even more. While Grandpa and Tyler played golf, Nana and I ran some shopping errands that eventually led to the purchase of an inflatable pool. Nana's sneaky plan to get her summer-missing daughter outside. After 45 minutes of trying to inflate the stupid thing with an air pump and a blowdryer (which is broken now)Nana and I figured mushy-inflated was good enough and started filling it with water. Though we felt a little white trash about the whole deal, the cool water was great! The picture is hilarious by the way. Nana got some good ones too, so you'll have to check back later to see if any others were added.

Date Night 39 Weeks

Early Labor

So sorry to have given you all a false alarm the other night, but this labor stuff is tricky I'm learning. In our doctor's appointment on Thursday we learned that I was definitely in early labor, but this could go on for a week or so. She told us that now that we have a threshold for how intense the contractions will have to be to make me dialate, we can guage the intensity of labor from there. If we haven't had a baby by our next appointment next Wednesday, she said we'll definitely be throwing around the idea of inducing.

I should've known though after seeing my sister go through the slowest dialation process known to man that I was going to have a tougher time with the centimeter spread than normal people. Welp, now we know though.

I've continued to have contractions since Wednesday evening, but Tyler and I have decided that unless my water breaks or the contractions are bringing me to my knees in pain, we'll avoid another trip to the "observation room". We're going for admittance to a cooshy labor room next go round.

On a happy note, our friends Meridith and Jason officially had their little boy Wylder Paul Smith yesterday via C-section. Wylder's heart rate had dropped to 80 bpm which prompted the doctor to get him out ASAP. Once in the world, he was happy and perfect so it was definitely the best decision on their part. He's gorgeous and looks a lot like both parents. You can see pics at http://mustemote.tumblr.com.

Keep us in mind over the next few days, pray that Price decides he would like to see us soon!!

Labor Pains

Hello friends. This is Aubrey, Kara Laine's sister. I am here to tell you that Kara and Tyler went to the hospital in OKC at 9:00pm yesterday because Kara's contractions had been 3-5 minutes apart for almost two hours. When they got to the hospital, Kara was 1cm dilated and 60% effaced. Not in "active labor" (which requires you to be at least 3cm dilated plus contractions) but probably in the early stages of labor.

For 6 hours they monitored Kara on-and-off. While she wasn't hooked up to the machines, she was walking the halls of the hospital. At the end of that time period, Kara was almost 2cm dilated and 70-80% effaced. Some progress, but still not quite enough for active labor, which meant that they could not admit her.

My mom and dad (Kathie and Chris) had a hotel room down the road, so around 5:00am Kara and Tyler went to the hotel to get some rest. As of right now, Kara Laine says the contractions are still going strong and she is alternately walking and trying to get some rest. They have their weekly doctor's appointment at 2:15pm, and I will post more then!

Prayers for Momma Kara and Baby Price! C'mon, buddy, you can do it!!

10 Days 'til Our Due Date!

Today officially marks the countdown from 10. Hopefully either Tyler and Denise are right and he comes this Saturday the 19th, or the Grandpa Chris's are right and he comes next Tuesday the 22nd. Either date is wonderful with me, though if we went in on Thursday for our appointment and I went into labor that would be just fine as well!

Tyler and I have had many fun and exciting things happen this past week. FUN: 1. Grandpa C.P. got back from Baltimore in time for us to enjoy a Trader-Price concert at Foss Lake last Friday. 2. I was asked to model for Blunks for a maternity photo setting this past Saturday morning. Unbeknown to myself and Tyler, they wanted Ty in many of the pictures, which was great. However, you all must ask him of how "violated" he felt when they asked him to take off his shirt for a few pictures. :D Afterwords we both agreed that Rip's maternity photo shoots are MUCH more our style. 3. Saturday afternoon we were able to spend a few hours with my wonderful Grandma. The photos follow.

EXCITING: 1. My contractions have been increasing steadily almost every night. I've been having pretty strong back labor which makes getting comfortable impossible. But, just like Grandma Denise says, each one brings us closer to seeing our little boy. 2. Our friends Meridith and Jason Smith are scheduled to be induced this THURSDAY!!! Such exciting news for them. She's been having some trouble with preeclamcia so she and her doctor opted to induce at a very certain 38 weeks. Tyler and I will be up there on Thursday for our weekly appointment, so hopefully we'll get to see little Wilder Smith his first day in the world.

The waiting game has begun for Tyler and myself, and my patience has been surprising. Ty's not as patient, but he's an incredible coach and support during the contractions. I'm sure if I was having to stand aside and wait, I'd get a little impatient as well.

Any new news will be posted on the blog, so stay tuned.

38 Weeks

Almost 37 Weeks

Tyler and I went to the doctor today as well as picked up a few more of the remaining baby necessities. First at the apointment, Dr. Engelbrecht heard Price's heart and then she ventured to the great unknown to do the strep test and to see if I had dialated. It was a negative on the dialation, but we were glad to hear that my cervix was softening and Price's head was definitely down. Mind calming news for Nana Kate and Grandpa Price who are both going to be in Baltimore this weekend with Aubrey, Nick, and Ella. Unless something crazy happens, Elizabeth and Layton (my twin cousins born on July 3rd) will still be the only July 4th weekend birthdays in the family.

Secondly, we went to Babies R Us and got the mobile, another changing pad cover, and a pack-n-play matress fitted sheet. Then on to crazy Wal-Mart where the just-as-crazy greeter insisted on scanning EVERYTHING we thought might POSSIBLY be from Wal-Mart (two gift bags full). Then she proceeded to hand-write a description on EVERY sticker--and it took about 5 packages of "onesies" to convince her that "onesie" was actually a word. We also were able to learn how awful the world was becoming, largely due to the presidential race currently underway. In her words, "two horrible candidates". Good thing she may not be here for their whole term in office. To top it off, Ty was wearing his "Vote Obama" t-shirt. JK!! After 30 minutes of the sticker-happy greeter we finally returned about half of the items we came in with. Yeah store credit!!

Tonight we finished up the nursery and got Price's bag packed for the trip to the hospital. Ty and I started our suitcase packing as well, complete with maxi pads and breast pads, whoopie!! Ty packed deodorant and a toothbrush.

Attached are some pictures of the nursery and a few of Kara's weird belly while she sterilized the Avent baby bottles.

37 Weeks & the Nursery

How Time Flies!

So officially we have 31 days left until our due date, which means Price will be here FOR SURE within 38 days. It's amazing to me how fast this pregnancy has gone, though I know the next few weeks are going to feel like they creap by. Whether it be anticipation or just the uncomfort of the situation, I'm sure these next 4-5 weeks will go by pretty slow. However, everyone we see tells us to cherish these next few weeks, as they are some of the most exciting of our lives.

Though I know Ty and I will be somewhat distracted once Price gets here, we are both so anxious to get to see Tyler's parents and sister as well as my sister, Nick, and Ella, and from what I understand a slew of family from Oregon! It's simply just an outrageously exciting time for everyone. This little guy doesn't have the first clue how lucky he is to get to come into the world with such a loving and wonderful family so ready to see him.

Last weekend Aunt Jamie and Aunt Meagan threw Price a shower in Newcastle where the Minco, Tuttle, and Newcastle family members were all in attendance. Being somewhat more emotional than I've ever been (thank you hormones) I am appauled at the generosity of family and friends. Some examples, Tyler's cousin Kim unloaded 2 huge Rubbermaid tubs of boy clothing on us (basically we are now SET on clothing for the first 9 months), Alice (a family friend from Minco) embroidered Price a gorgeous blanket which will soon adorn his full name and birthdate. I could go on forever!!

Needless to say, the nursery is coming together quite well. Nana Kate's glider contribution and Jamie & Meagan's diaper genie left us with only a few more necessities needed to take care of this little guy.

Here are a few pictures from the Kentucky family visit a few weeks back and the shower last Saturday. Also, we are taking a pool to see when you think Price will be born, email me your prediction and we'll get it on the calendar.

Again, thank you to everyone for coming to our shower Saturday and the wonderful gifts!!

Kentucky family, Minco shower, & 35 weeks

7 Weeks Left!

We went to our 32 week appointment on Tuesday and found out that Price is now head down! A relief, but no new news for mom, as I've felt him kicking my ribs a lot lately. His heartbeat was 153 bpm and it looks like he's doing just fine.

Two weekends ago Tyler and I took some maternity photos at Great Grandma Joyce's house with Uncle Rip. And, as you can see for yourself, they turned out wonderful! Keep in mind neither Tyler nor myself really came prepared for this, and instead of the camera in tow, neither did Rip. He's so stinking creative though, it doesn't matter.

Also, Nana Kate, Grandpa Ree, Tyler and myself were able to see cousins Kevin, Tracie, Elizabeth, and Layton this past weekend in OKC for the Women's College World Series. It was somewhat of a whirlwind trip, but it was very nice to get to see part of the KY family. I did learn that although Tyler and his dad need no help turning little Baby Locke into an OU fanatic, Kevin is apparently going to aid in the process.

We go back to the doctor on the 17th for our 34 week appointment, then again on July 2nd. So, things are progressing as usual. Let's all keep good positive thoughts going to Baby Locke for the next few weeks, and also to his oven-of-a-mother. Though I've been lucky enough not to experience any swelling yet, I am so incredibly hot it's unbelievable, and it's only going to get worse, I know. However, I have very little to complain about, as the rest of me is feeling fine...big...but fine.

Maternity Pictures

Single Digit Midget!!

That's right folks, as of today we have only 9 weeks left until our due date!! We had our last monthly doctor's appointment Wednesday, from now on we go every two weeks, then once a week until Baby Boy gets here! CRAZY!!!

Price's nursery is coming along well. I'm sure after Aunt Meagan and Aunt Jamie's Minco shower in June, we will be completely set on baby necessities. Tyler's wonderful family has a tendency to lavish people with wonderful gifts during such exciting times, and we're very willing and excited to be the recipients of the lavishing.

Tyler is finished with school today, so his summer plans are taking root at the golf course. We are both relishing the last few weeks of time we have together as just the two of us. We like eachother's undivided attention so much, it's frightening to think that we won't be alone again for at least another 18 years. We've decided though that it will all be worth it to get to watch a little version of ourselves grow and develop into a neat little person.

In the baby movement department, Price and I have experienced his first few sets of hiccups. (Thank you to Aunt Aubrey who defined to me what the "rhythmic bouncing" was in my stomach.) He has gotten so big that every little movement can distract me from whatever I'm working on. Very different from the tiny pokes I strained to feel just a few short months ago. Sleeping has become more difficult and less intense due to the constant peeing and hip pains. All part of it, from what I understand.

Below are some pictures from the past couple of weeks up through today. At the doctor I measured right at 31 weeks, so it looks likes we're on schedule. Price's heartrate was up to 157 due to the jumping jacks he was performing as the doctor tried to locate him in my belly. The appointment went very well.

31 Weeks

Starting the Third Trimester!

So as of May 3rd Tyler and I are in our third trimester! Hard to believe really, but very exciting nonetheless. Sunday we went online to 'youtube' a 28 week ultrasound and somehow we ventured into the childbirth videos (don't do it, even though it may seem like it would be interesting) and eventually stumbled upon Bill Cosby's Natural Childbirth skit. Wow, we laughed for a good solid 20 minutes.
Unfortunately/Fortunately for me the whole experienced has forced me to REALLY start thinking about the delivery of this little boy. I've thought about it before, but a combo of Bill Cosby, the wreched childbirth videos on youtube, and entering into the third trimester has filled my "blank thought times" with the idea of pushing out a little baby. And actually, to my surprise, each time I think of it I don't get the HOLY CRAP feeling, but instead a very deep down excited/nervous feeling comes across me. Similar to the way I felt before basketball games or golf tournaments, but even greater. I've decided that it's the best blessing God gives a woman about their baby's birth, otherwise I'm affraid I would be running quickly in the opposite direction (like that would help).
The following pictures are of the various showers I have attended over the past three weeks. First my friend from high school, Devyn Ferrari/Galmore's shower for her twin boys, then my good friend Meridith Smith for her baby boy due a week after our little one. Then just a few Big Kara pictures to give you a true idea of the size of this belly. Enjoy!

Third Trimester

26 Weeks Tomorrow!!

It's been a crazy past 6 weeks so I don't feel quite so bad about not updating the blog. With the fence, Aubrey & Ella's visit, Uncle Don & Aunt Bev's visit, Scott and Elizabeth Price's shower and wedding, and Baby Locke's shower, our schedule has prohibited us from updating as we should. But, better late than never I guess.
Probably some of the biggest news we have, surround naming Baby Locke. Unfortunately everyone will have to give up their nicknames of the child, but I'm sure more will arise once he is born. So, drum roll please, we're 98% positive that Baby Locke will be Price Owen Locke. Tyler doesn't want everyone to jump the gun and start getting things embroidered with the name just yet though. Until we write the name on his birth certificate will it then be finalized.
Kara and Baby Price have definitely grown over the past six weeks going from about 33 inches to approaching 37. Both Price and Kara are now enjoying the warmer weather allowing for Kara to wear the stretchy gaucho pants, wonderful maternity jeans from Aunt Aubrey, and fabulous khaki maternity shorts from Nana Kate. Kara's getting big enough though that she will soon have to break down and buy some maternity clothes on her own.
Another HUGE development came when Tyler and Grandpa Ree undertook the project of building a fence at Price's house. A lot of money and time to simply allow for Boston and Calli (our cats) to become outdoor kitties, but it will all be worth it when Baby Price gets home and the cat hair and dander aren't a factor for Price or "Grandpa" Chris Locke. The transition has been easier than Kara expected for Boston, Calli, as well as Kara. We are all enjoying the yard playtime, then retiring to our respected dwellings.
Lastly, Aunt Aubrey and a host of other wonderful friends and family members threw Baby Price a shower last Saturday. Kara and Tyler came out like bandits in the present department, and now only lack a few large items and a handful of small things to be ready for Price's delivery. We had a slew of family drive and fly great distances to be at the shower including Great Aunt Bev & Great Uncle Don from Kentucky, Aunt Aubrey and Cousin Ella from Maryland, "Aunt's" Jacque and Melissa from OKC, cousin Erin from Stillwater, but most surprisingly Grandpa and Grandma Chris and Denise from Colorado. Nobody knew they were coming, including Great Grandma Joyce, and their surprise arrival excited everyone immensely. Both Tyler and Kara would like to thank all the wonderful people who put together and attended our little baby's shower. It's friends and family like you who reassure us of how loved little Price Owen will be and already is, and not only by his parents.
There's an array of photos available below, showing the fence construction, the shower, and Baby Price's mom. Enjoy!!

Weeks 20-26

Halfway There!!

So as previously noted, we are continuing our poor blogging reputation. But, to get to the point, we found out on February 25th that we are having a baby BOY!!! (Hence the new background color) Everything from the ultrasound looked fine, which was a relief to us both. Kara's been feeling great, and has entered the "energy" phase of the pregnancy apparently. Tyler thinks the nesting is beginning to kick in as well.
We were lucky enough to get to see Chris, Denise, & Rachel this past weekend, unfortunately under not-so-great circumstances as Tyler's Great Grandma Mary Locke passed away. But, we all seized the opportunity to get to spend some quality time together and dream about the baby boy to come.
We've also begun to furnish the baby room with furniture and some beginnings of a wardrobe, thanks to Nana Kate. Since Aunt Aubrey will be throwing us a shower on April 12th we had to get a space ready to unload the presents.
Here are some recent pictures of Kara, her belly, Calli, her belly, Boston, Tyler and BABY LOCKE!!! The ultrasound pictures are as good as I could get. They are pictures of pictures so don't be too harsh on the photographer.

20 weeks

Third Doctor's Appointment

Tyler and I visited our doctor again January 30th for a routine checkup. We were glad to hear the heartbeat of baby Locke for a second time, now louder and deeper in tone. The rate was 158 bpm, which is in the "normal" range of 120-160. We will find out the baby's gender at our next appointment on February 25th, which we are already super excited about. Our doctor is interested to see if the wives tale of fast heartbeat=girl baby holds true in our case. She informed us though that to increase an adult's heartrate by 20 beats per minute you would have to jog a good lap around a building. However, a baby in the womb can simply turn over a few times and their heartrate will jump 20 bpm. For Tyler, Mr. Random Facts Man, he loved this information and is very anxious to see how the old wives tale measures out in our case.
After the appointment we went to Babies R Us and decided on bedding, furniture, stroller, and pack-and-play for when we go and register. Neither of us being super gender specific on much, we picked a pretty neutral, yet playful bedding that will go great with either a boy or girl. Primary colors, A, B, C's and zoo animals sounds like a bedroom fit for the baby of two standard, no-frills parents.
Here are a few more pictures of the always growing baby belly at 15 weeks. Keep in mind these pictures were taken just after we ate a HUGE meal at Simon's Catch, so my belly is a little bigger than normal.

Cats & Kara at 16 weeks

Beginning of Second Trimester

So, we are really bad at keeping this blog updated, and would like to extend our apologies to you all for the delay in posting a second blog, and for all the inevitable blogwriting shortcomings in the future.
January 11th, marked the ending of the first trimester, so we are more on the safe-side with each coming week. On January 2nd, Grandpa Ree, Aunt Aubrey, and cousin Ella were all in attendance to hear the first heartbeats of little baby Locke. However, I do not believe they felt the same relief and pride to hear that little ticker pumping hard and heavy in the womb as baby Locke's mom and dad. It was the first time we both got choked-up since the day we found out we were pregnant. It was a great day for us all.
Below are some pictures of Kara's growing belly at 14 weeks. We are as bad at taking regular pictures as we are about updating blogs apparently.