Here come the Holidays

Things are getting a bit busy and a bit hectic around these parts. We have completed our birthing class (we are now experts!) and went and preregistered at the hospital. We also took a tour and got to see the birthing rooms. They are very nice -- spacious and very comfortable. There is even a sleeping chair for the Papa. And the hospital security measures are fantastic, I don't think we'll have to worry about any of our Sequoia friends coming to snatch away our little one (Lora!). We were a little bummed that we didn't get to see any babies behind the glass in the nursery, though.

Now that we aren't looking at houses every weekend we are finding more time to explore the area. We went to Walnut Canyon (one of our parks) and spent a few hours exploring. It is really a beautiful little park. We took a nice hike and Molly took all 240 stairs on the Island Trail like a champ. And of course we took way to many pictures to share with you all.


Molly and I are going to spend a quiet Thanksgiving together, our last one with just the two of us. Molly will be having a cornish game hen and I will be making crab cakes. We will also be having some traditional side dishes, and I am going to make a pumpkin pie with a recipe I got from Makers Mark. Mmmm...bourbon pumpkin pie. We have also rented a ton of movies so that we can veg out in style. We may even join in all the hulabulu of the mad Christmas shopping.

We are also putting the finishing touches on our bag to take to the hospital. Music, lollipops, comfy clothes and slippers are all getting crammed into the 'birthing bag'. We will also be getting the car seat put in the car so they will let us take baby home. And one of the most exciting things to happen is we are getting close to the end of all the baby books! We have been enjoying some great birthing videos suck as Knocked Up, you should all check it out.


Molly is at 34 weeks, and after next week we will start seeing the Dr. every week. The doc still thinks she is doing great, she is a very good patient.

So as we get closer to the big day we would love to hear from all of you. Anyone have any last minute guesses on the sex? Remember, this is an exhibition not a competition, please no wagering.

We miss you all, especially with the holidays right around the corner. Please write or call often!

P.S. I have been listening to a song called 'Daughter' by Loudon Wainwright III. Check it out, it's beautiful and makes me cry about every time I hear it.

Indiana Baby Shower

For a bit of a change, I, Molly, am going to be writing this blog entry so beware! It has been quite hectic around here what with getting ready for baby and continuing to get ourselves settled in Flagstaff. We know that this is just the beginning of the work ahead so we consider it practice. Will and I work really well together and can generally find humor and laughter in everything we do so we are taking all obstacles in stride.

In mid October, I traveled back to Indiana for a baby shower that my Mom and sister, Betsy, threw for me. They are both so excited to become a first time grandmother and aunt. They are a touch baby crazy! They have been having fun looking for baby clothes and supplies. While I was home they made sure to talk to my stomach so "Baby" will recognize their voices...I'm not sure if it really accomplished anything other than people staring at us in the airport...

The shower was a lot of fun and it was really great to see so many friends and family members. It was a traditional shower with REALLY yummy cake and goofy shower games (my family can not get through ANY party without playing a game...we are game people). My cousin, Tracie Young was the game master and everyone had a good time trying to guess famous mothers, baby name meanings and random baby items.

Mom and Betsy, as usual, planned a great party. I had such a good time I was even a little depressed when it was over...

Baby and I received so many nice things at the shower that will help when the little one arrives. (Blankets, Clothes, Diapers, etc.) Will and I really appreciate all that our family and friends have done for us. Thank you for everything to help us with our "long term project!"