30 Years Young

I turned the digits again on September 10, 2012 - I am now 30 years old.  I think having a husband four years older than me, I felt like I was in my thirties a lot longer than that but now it's official. 

Since it was a milestone birthday, we had a little family get together on September 8, 2012, for pizza and cake.  Mom was so sweet to take over since Kaitlyn had just had surgery and I was taking finals, and I can't thank her enough.  Everyone was very thoughtful and I got very spoiled. :)

Monday, September 10, Shayne took me out for my birthday date.  We went to a favorite, Los 3 Amigo's and went to the Halloween store and Walmart for shopping.   I bought three shirts with my birthday money.  It was very fun to get out.

If you ask me how I feel to be 30, I'd say, "I feel great.  I think my parents are feeling it more than I am." :) I am very excited to be in this time of my life.  

Boy or Girl - what will it be? A new Munn is coming March 2013!!!

The morning of July 11, I pulled out my cheap dollar store pregnancy test and nervously took the test.  After so many negative tests to get pregnant with Kaitlyn, I tried not to get excited as I left the room to make my bed.  When I came back, from a distance the test looked negative.  Upon closer inspection though I could see a faint line in the positive side!  It was unmistakeable!  I must be pregnant! 

To be sure, I took another test the following morning.  It was also faintly positive.  I had went to my doctors office for an "official test."  Unfortunately, that test came back negative.  My heart sank. The nurse had already written the positive note for my insurance company.  I told them about the positive home tests, and the kind nurse suggested a blood test.  Wanting to know for sure, I agreed to the test.  Lucky for me, it was POSITIVE. 

I tried to keep it a secret from Shayne that day, but it wasn't as easy as I thought.  Shayne kept making big plans for our summer.  "Let's go jet skiing with so and so, let's go to Lagoon, when we go to Hatch we will have to go for a long ATV ride," etc etc etc.  I started to tell him that he might have to tone it down a bit - and that I didn't know if we could do all that.  He figured it out.  He knows me too well - I would have loved to do those things normally but when I am pregnant I SLOW DOWN.

I was excited and nervous to find out I was pregnant.  Part of me ached for the baby we lost over Halloween 2011 at eight weeks.  I was nervous what the outcome of this pregnancy would be.  I decided to keep quiet about the news until I was far enough along to be certain. 

Keeping the secret grew hard when I ran into the usual problems.  As with my last two pregnancies and one resulting in miscarriage, I was spotting at my fifth week.  I was upset and nervous that I would carry the baby three weeks or more and lose the pregnancy after all.  In a moment's panic, I told my mom and she pushed me to go to the doctor and have blood tests. 

July 20, I went to see a Dr. Burnett in Springville for an exam.  Dr. Burnett informed me around 9:00 that night that my progesterone levels were low.   She educated me that progesterone feeds the baby until the placenta takes over.  She also let me know that if a miscarriage was underway, that the progesterone pills would not help me.  It was a restless night.  I called my mother in law for advice, since she's had experience with low progesterone.

The next morning, Grandpa Underwood died.  His passing was hard on the whole family, but I had to keep myself moving and get my pills before this baby gave up - it's the way Grandpa would have wanted it.  I rushed out the door to get my pills, hoping to be the first in line.  Walmart didn't have my prescription.  It was now the weekend and I feared the worst if I had to wait until Monday to get the pills since the doctors office was now closed.  Out of curiosity, I called Walgreens to see if the doctor called it in there by mistake.  They had.  The prescription was $100 for a one month supply.  I hoped it would be worth it.

It was.  At six weeks, we had a heartbeat.  At eight weeks, heartbeat.  It was at my eight week visit we discovered I had another subchornianic bleed, or blood clot.  I thought it was funny lightning would strike the same place twice since that's what caused the problems with Kaitlyn's first trimester. Already knowing things would be ok, I calmed down and was told to avoid anything strenuous and try to avoid lifting Kaitlyn.

Ellie was a big help during this time.  It was Ellie who was lifting Kaitlyn over the baby gate.  It was Ellie putting her sister into bed at night.  Ellie put Kaitlyn in her car-seat.  I have never been more proud of her for everything that she did for me during this time.  She also prayed every night for this baby to "come to our family, and not to Heaven." It was a huge responsibility for her and it's nice to know that I can go to her when I need help.

A few weeks later the spotting stopped.  Life stabilized and on September 6, I started to tell my family and friends of our new addition on the way.  I am currently 14 weeks and counting.  I have been off my progesterone pills for three weeks, and I feel pretty sick much of the time.  I am hoping in another couple weeks, that will go away.   My belly is growing, and we are very excited to meet this little one in March.

Ashley is also due in March :) I am excited to have our kids so close in age! I am glad I can share this experience with her.

Oh and in case you were wondering, we aren't finding out the gender of this baby.  With my heart history, we are uncertain if my heart can handle too much strain and pregnancy aggravates the condition.   We think that having a surprise baby might make the pregnancy every bit as fun as the first and will add excitement the whole way through.  Our things are mostly gender neutral, so we are pretty much all set.  There couldn't be a more perfect time to have our surprise. 

We are very excited.  More updates to come!

Kaitlyn Today

Despite our efforts to avoid it, Kaitlyn had her esophagus stretched on August 30, 2012.  I was extremely apprehensive about it.  The risks were frightening, but the thought of Kaitlyn being unable to eat like a normal child were more upsetting.  Dr. Sutton reassured us that he didn't want to do it either, but he felt her continued problem with the gagging was probably more anatomical than behavioral.  Dr. Sutton leans on the side of caution, so I had a strong feeling that Kaitlyn would be in good hands.

The night of August 29, we prepared to leave early and were asked to arrive at the Utah Valley Surgical Center no later than 6:45 a.m.  I made sure to give Kaitlyn her last drink of milk, and put tight elastics in her hair so we could just wake up and go without fussing over it.

The morning of August 30 was somber.   During some point in the night, I grew quite upset at our previous pediatrician for being a big reason we were going in to have her esophagus dilated.  I hated the thought of poor Kaitlyn going through something that could have been avoided by running a simple x-ray.  Once we were ready, I woke up Kaitlyn and let her know it might be a hard day, but it's just one day and then we will be home, just as the therapist suggested.

We arrived at the hospital and I was surprised they put us in a large room with curtain dividers with other children slowly coming in for their procedures.  We got Kaitlyn dressed in her gown and Shayne and I showed her all the many things we had bought her to help make her day easier. I kept thinking that if you can't spoil your child for going in for surgery, then I don't know when you can.  She loved her new toys.

Kaitlyn is so sweet natured.  She smiled at the nurses, and was completely compliant during her wait. It wasn't until a nurse laid her down and made her drink some dark pink stuff that she started to get nervous.  I rocked Kaitlyn a lot that morning.  It seemed calm her down, and I knew I had to be strong for her.

Dr. Sutton came in just when they wheeled her back.  It wasn't until this moment that he told me of some of the risks of a minor perforation. I knew the risks were bad, but I had no idea that even a minor perforation would put her on a feeding tube for three weeks to a month.  I started to pray harder that Kaitlyn would be alright.

Not long after sending her back, Kaitlyn came back to Shayne and I barely awake and wanting her Mommy and blankie.  I held her and rocked her close, and she fell asleep for at least another hour.  Everything went well.  I felt like I could now relax too.

Dr. Sutton let us know that her diverticulum (pocket) may still be a problem.  Just to get the scope in the right place, the doctor had to go "up and around the corner" to get to the stomach.  This may create problems in the future for swallowing.  Dr. Sutton recommended a ear, nose, and throat specialist to repair the pocket and make a straight line to her stomach.  She may also need her esophagus dilated every year, as the symptoms return.

The idea of another surgery, especially one that will involve a feeding tube for three weeks to a month during healing, just didn't seem like an option.  I left the hospital that day with a conviction that miracles happen!  Kaitlyn won't need her throat operated on, much more than more dilation. 

Kaitlyn bounced back amazing.  She seemed sore the first day, but she continued to bounce around and be her usual self.  We gave her a special blessing Sunday, September 2nd, asking if it is His will that she will make a full recovery and not need the surgery. It wasn't until a week later that I really recognized the progress she was making.  There was NO gagging.  NO choking.  September 8, she ate an entire piece of ham pizza without a problem.  If she can eat a pizza - I think she can eat many other things. It's every hopeful right now.

So where do we go from here?  For now, we are continuing the food therapy once a month.  We are doing monthly weight checks, and have follow up's scheduled for two months from August 30 when she had her dilation.  Dr. Sutton and her therapist strongly feel that Kaitlyn needs a modified barium swallow study.  However, with a barium shortage right now, Kaitlyn will not be having this anytime too soon - and that's ok because we both need a break.

As for the "other pediatrician"  - we have left his office.  We are back with Dr. Knorr in Lehi.  Even though this is an extra drive for us, we feel that we will be in the best hands under his care.  The two meet again September 24th to discuss her special needs.

I continue to be hopeful for Kaitlyn.  I have been praying harder than ever for her.  She is always on my mind, and I hope that one day she can eat like a normal child.  I admire her strength for being only two years old.  Kaitlyn does hard things because she has to.  She doesn't fight it, she accepts her challenges, and she hasn't let it make her unhappy or nervous.  She is still so innocent and trusting.  Kaitlyn doesn't dwell on the bad things.  She is a good example for many, and I am so proud to be her mommy. 

“Promise me you'll always remember: You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. Christopher Robin to Pooh”

Celebrating the new Mr. and Mrs. Munn

This day I will marry my best friend,
the one I laugh with,
live for,
dream with,
love.

~ Author Unknown 

I am happy to announce the marriage of my brother in law, Patrick Munn to his sweetheart Ashley on August 26, 2012.  This day also holds significance in the family as the day Grandpa and Grandma Underwood were married over 70 years ago. I wish I could have been there to witness their special day!  The two are planning a temple wedding next year, and we hope to be a big part of that amazing day.

Patrick and Ashley are an amazing couple who are committed to each other and everything in their relationship.  We are very happy for them as they start their married life together! Congratulations to the newest Mr. and Mrs. Munn!  

Grandma and Grandpa Underwood

I don't remember meeting them, but I do remember the impression I got when I met Shayne's Grandma Elthora Underwood and Grandpa Ernal Underwood sometime in the year of 1999.  I admired them; in my eyes, they had "it all."  They had built their dream home, served a temple mission to New Zealand, four kids, a couple RV campers, big garden in the back yard, and one of the strongest love's for one another I had ever seen.  I knew from that moment on that I hoped to one day be a lot like them.

The other thing that stood out from day one is that Grandpa Ernal Underwood was a Pearl Harbor and WWII Veteran.  I felt proud just meeting him.  I heard many stories about this infamous tragic day from the mouth of someone who had actually been there.  Pearl Harbor had new meaning for me from then on.    

A few years later, Shayne and I were married in the Salt Lake City Temple on August 8, 2003.  Grandpa performed our marriage and sealing.  It was done with very few words, but the spirit was strong and before I could muster any tears, Shayne and I were eternally married.  It meant so much to have him marry us and he will always hold a place in our heart for this. 

Not long after our wedding, we found out that Grandma Underwood was fighting cancer.  This news was devastating for the entire family and Shayne wanted to be with them during their time of need.  Shortly after, we moved into their basement apartment to see if we could help. 

I remember offering to help them with meals as part of our rent.  I made lunch style menu's and posted them on their fridge. I kept them new and exciting, but I felt like I wasn't cooking anything that Grandpa seemed to like.  I knew I was cooking decent meals, even if I wasn't a great chef, so I finally asked someone why.  This is when I found out that Grandpa was a "meat and potatoes" kind of a guy.  Now knowing how to make him more happy, I adjusted the meals and tried things I hoped he would like.

Grandpa was so good to Grandma.  Many times, I caught Grandpa picking Grandma flowers from their garden.  I loved watching them give small smooches to each other.  They sat side by side in  their rocking chairs watching TV and talking about their memories or their day.

I will never forget picking the perfect Mother's Day gift for Grandma; it was a green garden frog, holding an umbrella in one hand, and checking for rain with the other.  I remember thinking that she seemed like the type that would put it out in her flower garden, but she loved it so much she kept in in the house with her.  She even glued a bird onto it's hand.  It brought us such joy to see that she really loved the gift we had chosen for her.  The frog was still in the house for many years later.  

Grandma taught me a little about cooking.  Grandma was a great cook, so whenever I had a question, I knew who to ask for help.  I wish I could have learned more from her.  She was not only a good cook but a great quilter, skilled at embroidery, crochet, and almost everything crafty.  She made us a quilt for our wedding.  Shayne won't even let us use it because it is so special to him.

Shayne had a special bond with his grandma.  He tells our daughter how his grandma used to read him "The Fox and the Hound," almost every night before bed.  Shayne likes to lay in bed and have me spread a quilt on top of him sometimes at night, he says "he loves the weight."  It reminds him of Grandma putting blankets on top of him.  She was a nurturing lady.  She made everyone feel loved and valued. 

Poor Grandma was getting worse as spring 2004 approached.  I remember visiting her in the hospital regularly and Grandma always having the best attitude about it all.  She was especially cute when she wore her "moon suit," which was really just a machine she had to wear at different times of the day and breathe into.  I don't recall her complaining about the cancer or the challenges she faced.  Everyone had such hopes she would return to health, but sadly on a beautiful July 23, 2004, (which also happened to be Brandon and Michelle's wedding day) Grandma Underwood passed away.

Grandpa Underwood was never quite the same after Grandma left.  He had lost some of the twinkle in his eye.  Many of us wondered how long he would survive without his dear wife. We stayed with him a couple months after Grandma's passing.  The house was often quiet and lonely.  Grandpa kept to himself, but I tried to help him when I could - even if he didn't know it.  When I knew he was gone, I would sneak upstairs once a week and help him clean the bathrooms, dust, vacuum, and mop.  Many times, I made an extra sandwich and put it in his fridge for his lunches.   My heart went out to him.  It didn't take long for us to realize that Grandpa needed some time for himself and it was with this realization that Shayne and I moved to a duplex in Salem. I was told later on that moving was exactly what Grandpa needed at the time and he was glad that we gave him time and space to grieve.

Now it seemed I saw Grandpa most at my mother in law, Jeanette's house in Springville.  He was always popping in on them and joining us for dinner, and everyone loved having him around.  Holidays seemed rougher for Grandpa, especially in the first years without Grandma.  After a while, it got too hard for Grandpa to get around and that's when my mother and father in law (Mark) moved in to be Grandpa's caregivers.

One memory of Grandpa I will treasure is helping him set up his Christmas tree the past few years.  It became a fun tradition to go over to his home in Salem the Sunday after Thanksgiving and put up his tree.  I remember one of the first years we did it Grandpa exclaiming, "the neighbors will be so surprised!"   He seemed so proud and happy to have the tree displayed proudly in his front window.  Last year, I remember walking in on him admiring the tree and seeing a small tear coming from his eye.  I will miss this tradition.

I didn't see Grandpa too much in the end.  We had busy schedules, and Grandpa although loved the visits, but I could tell the kids were making him anxious so bringing them over was often difficult.  Whenever we did see him though, as I went to hug him good bye, he always held me tight by the arm or hand, and told me eye to eye how much he appreciated our visit and loved us.  I never doubted it.  Grandpa always said how he truly felt. 

Grandpa died on July 21, 2012.  It is never easy to say goodbye to someone you love, but I took great comfort knowing he and wife lovely wife are together again, side by side and hand in hand just as it always used to be. I imagine Grandpa has his twinkle back and Grandma giving him smooches.   They are missed by many, but have left a wonderful legacy for our family through their example.  We love you Grandma and Grandpa!  Till we meet again <3>

America's Birthday

I like party planning and being involved in activities.  This year, I thought it would be fun to bring a firepit and s'mores items to share during our Fourth of July party with the Munn's.  Turns out I brought them for nothing though because they had so much fun going on!  It was awesome.

We came to Grandpa Underwood's house in the late afternoon and started off our time with water play.  There was a pool, slip and slide, wiggly sprinkler, and lots of fun water activities going on.  The kids loved it!

After a tasty BBQ potluck dinner, we gathered in the back yard for a new tradition of BINGO.  Everyone won a round or two.  It was a happy time and will be a fun new activity for this holiday form here forward. 

Later on, we gathered around for fireworks and ice cream in waffle cones.  Kaitlyn was the most fun to watch during fireworks.  When she was sitting on her Nana's lap, she started clapping and cheering for everyone to hear!  "YAY!!!! YAY!!!"  It was the cutest thing ever!!!  I was lucky enough to video tape it a couple times.

On a more random note; I was excited about a firework I bought for $2.99 at a Black Cat stand.  I didn't know what to expect, but the man that sold it to me assured me it was the best firework for the money.  Sure enough, it did not disappoint.  Nine sky shots flew in the air making a beautiful mini show!  I decided then and there I was going to buy more of them around the 24th of July for New Years Eve.

It was really nice to be all together too.  All the neices, and one nephew were there - we were only missing Lizzie and Zach who were spending the holiday with their mom. We had Jessica's parents, sister, and nieces over, and my cousin, Kristl, join us as well. It was a wonderful time and I am so excited for our next get together.

A special thank you to Mom and Dad Munn for hosting this holiday and the hard work and planning that went into it. 

Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Jason Benson!

We have some newly weds in the family again!  Shayne's little sister, Sarah, married Jason Benson on June 1st at the Young Living Farm in Mona, Utah.  The wedding showed a lot of creative personality with a country theme complete with cowgirl and cowboy boots, hay bales, and cow cake toppers on a cow print cake!  We were privileged to be a bridesmaid and groomsman for the event, and helped carryout the brides wedding vision with decorating and setup throughout the day.  Sarah and her daughters, Kaede and Arisa, were happy to unite their family with Jason and his two children, Lizzie and Zach. 

It was an unforgettable day for many who came and especially Sarah, Jason, and our entire family.  We are so happy for them and excited to watch their life unfold and be part of their temple sealing in one year. CONGRATULATIONS MR. & MRS. BENSON!