The Edwards Family

January 24, 2012

2012-01-24T11:02:00.000-08:00

Yeah, our sweet baby girl is here and healthy! We are so thrilled to announce that Gwen Malia decided to make her debut on Thursday, January 19th at 5:16pm. She weighed 6 lbs. 6 oz. and was 19 inches long. She was born at 37 weeks gestation, which is absolutely amazing. We were finally able to experience the joy of bringing a child into this world. There are words to describe how grateful Jeff and I were to be able to experience the delivery of a healthy baby! Vann is thrilled to have his baby sister here and has been adjusting really well. We want to thank all of you for the prayers you have sent to us over the course of this pregnancy...we did it!!!

December 24, 2011

2011-12-24T18:44:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all of our Family and Friends! We are having a great time with Popi Rod and Grandma Neesie. I am not sure if Vann is going to let Popi leave...he has to be playing with him at all times! We are looking forward adding Baby Gwen to our crew in just over a month. We have a C-section scheduled for February 1, 2012...if she can hold off until then. Each additional week we get through is a blessing!

Scheduled C-Section on February 1st...our belated Christmas present

Our beautiful Ally, who turned 6 this month

Popi, Grandma and Vann

Flexing those muscles

December 13, 2011

2011-12-13T18:12:00.000-08:00

Happy 3rd Birthday Vann! I made sure to get a lot of laying down time in so I could attend his party!

Here are some pictures from his party this weekend and from opening presents today!

Vann's cool new airplane chair from Grandma Bear and Papa

Vann opening up his big present from Grandma Neesie and Popi!

November 29, 2011

2011-11-29T09:12:00.000-08:00

Hi!
I know it has been awhile, but I have been trying to lay low lately. Jeff has been a huge help and we are just trying to make life as easy as possible. We have hit a milestone today and are officially 30 weeks, yeah!

Vann has been great, we are happy to announce that he is potty trained. It only took him about a week and we are so proud of him. We can't believe he is going to be 3 in a couple of weeks:) He has been helping Jeff out a lot and even wanted to help pick up leaves the other day!

November 9, 2011

2011-11-10T08:12:00.000-08:00

Things here are going great. The weather is starting to get a little chilly, so we thought we better get out and take some pictures before the snow hits the ground. Vann is growing up so fast...we can't believe that he is going to be 3 next month. He absolutely adores Jeff...he wants to be just like him:) We are in our 27 week of pregnancy with Baby Gwen, so we are pretty thrilled about that.

October 31, 2011

2011-11-01T09:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! Vann was so excited this year to go trick-or-treating. He was even more excited because Jeff was going to dress up as Spiderman with him. Vann did great and got lots of candy!

Lil' Spidey and big Spiderman

Getting ready to get some candy

Vann and our neighbor's little boy Liam

Update: We have officially made it to 26 weeks with this pregnancy, yeah!!! So far Baby Gwen is cooperating and every thing looks good. We continue to see my Dr. every 2 weeks. Vann is pretty excited for Baby Gwen to get it, we just aren't ready yet!

October 13, 2011

2011-10-13T20:02:00.000-07:00

Vann playing with his daddy!

Vann likes to pretend he is snoring!

October 8, 2011

2011-10-08T20:26:00.000-07:00

Today we took a trip to the pumpkin patch. Vann kept saying that we were going to "Pumpkin Pie," ha, his daddy only wishes. We had a great time and found some awesome pumpkins. Vann is getting excited for Halloween and going with Jeff tomorrow to find a costume.

October 8, 2011

2011-10-08T20:19:00.000-07:00

Well I am a little behind on the blog....so I will try and catch you up on Vann's adventures. Last month Jeff and our friend Matt took Vann and Matt's son AJ to the Mountain Home Air Show. Vann was so excited to see all the cool jets.

September 20, 2011

2011-09-20T14:34:00.000-07:00

Sorry it has been awhile since I have updated...we have been busy busy busy. We just got back from a trip to Portland. He was so wonderful to see my family and watch the cousins play. Henry and Vann were hilarious and had so much fun together. Popi Rod took Vann to the Air Museum, which he loved seeing the airplanes. A trip to Portland isn't complete without visiting the zoo.

August 23, 2011

2011-08-23T18:14:00.000-07:00

We took Vann to his first Western Idaho Fair yesterday. He loved seeing all of the animals and riding on the Choo Choo Trains. We couldn't leave the Fair without getting a photo of him in a cowboy hat:)

This past Saturday, the Boise State Broncos had their last scrimmage before the season starts. We had a great time tailgating, and the kids got to see the BIG Bronco helmet drive by and even got to sit inside!

July 28, 2011

2011-07-28T20:32:00.000-07:00

We have been extremely busy and excited to announce that Vann is going to be a big brother. We are hoping this baby decides to be born closer to it's due date which is February 7, 2012. We met with the high risk team today and they will be putting me on a weekly progesterone shot starting at 16 weeks. They will also really watch me closer this time. So if you get a chance to say an extra prayer for us, we would appreciate it!

Vann wanted to share some pictures of his new baby sister or brother (the ultrasound tech thinks it is a girl), but we will know for sure in September:)

July 18, 2011

2011-07-18T19:14:00.000-07:00

It has been extremely hot here, so we have been doing a lot of fun things in the water. Every Monday Vann has water day at school, which he LOVES. Jeff takes him to swim lessons while I am in class. It is safe to say that Vann loves the water.

He has been practicing really hard with his new tee ball set...man, this kid can hit the ball hard!!!

June 12, 2011

2011-06-12T15:57:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day today in Boise, so Jeff got the sprinkler out for Vann to run in. He was so excited! Vann got a little concerned when his shorts got wet, but we told him that was OKAY!!! We have our yearly check up with his Neurosurgeon on Tuesday, it will be neat for Dr. Cherny to see how wonderful Vann is doing!

June 4, 2011

2011-06-04T17:04:00.000-07:00

Today we took a little day trip to Shoshone Falls, the Niagara of the West. It is about 2 hours from our house and it was amazing. Vann had so much fun looking at the BIG waterfall. Vann is doing great, talking a lot and really loving school!

Vann being silly

Vann and his buddy Aiden

Family shot

Ready, set, go!

Still smiles after all that racing

Vann and the BIG waterfall

May 20, 2011

2011-05-20T17:56:00.000-07:00

It was finally a nice day to head to the zoo. It has been awhile since we have taken Vann. He LOVED the zoo and all of the animals. It was such a great time. He can't wait to go back!

Vann was so exited, he saw a baby jaguar a.k.a Snow Leopard

What a ham!

Having so much fun with dad

Family shot in front of the elephant

Flexing his muscles for the meerkats

He's got his eye on the tiger

Feeding the goats

Vann and the penguins

Vann, the Explorer

May 8, 2011

2011-05-08T18:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day! I have had a wonderful day with Vann...he has gone out of his way to tell me "Happy Mother's Day" all day long. He is such a sweetheart. I feel so lucky to have him as my son.

My handsome little guy!

Vann and his daddy!

Vann showing us his muscles!

CHEEEESE!

Another muscle shot!

Mommy and Vann before brunch!

Mommy, Vann, Avery, AJ and Jen at brunch!

May 2, 2011

2011-05-02T18:41:00.000-07:00

Vann has had quite an eventful month. Both sets of grandparents came to visit him, the Easter Bunny came to his house and continues to grow and learns lots at school. Last weekend we walked in the March of Dimes March for Babies Walk to help raise money for research to prevent premature births.

His favorite thing to watch right now is the "Imagination Movers Concert," in which he likes everyone to get up and dance...sorry, this video is just of him:)

Here are some pictures to catch you up on the last month!

Grandma Bear, Vann and Papa Ron

Easter Egg Hunting!

He did it...pretty sure his basket weighs more than he does!

Popi Rod, Vann and Grandma Neesie

Batman

All of the awesome eggs Vann dyed

Vann and Daddy at the March of Dimes Walk

Umm...yes, Sponge Bob was at the Walk and Vann thought he was hilarious. "Hi Sponge Bob!"

Vann in the St. Al's helicopter golf cart

Vann and Mommy....and yes, Fallon folks, I am wearing my 1999 Greenwave Softball sweatshirt. I have to represent every now and then!

2011-03-24T16:46:00.000-07:00

Vann was loving wearing his shades around today...he was SUPER COOL! He is doing great. Every day when we pick him up from his class he yells to his classmates, "BYE FRIENDS." We enjoy him more and more every day and couldn't ask for a better son!

March 21, 20011

2011-03-21T16:58:00.000-07:00

Vann's favorite show is Go Diego Go, and every time it comes on he runs to the TV and salsa dances...hilarious! It never gets old! He is doing great and his teacher at school told me the other day that she is really impressed with his verbal skills. We are so so proud of him.

2011-03-20T09:29:00.000-07:00

Vann has been really enjoying playing with his drums and singing, "Doctor Doctor..." He also LOVES shooting baskets with his new hoop!

February 20, 2011

2011-02-20T18:13:00.000-08:00

After a 2 weeks of not feeling good, Mr. Vann is doing much better. He had his first double ear infection and the medicine has worked wonders. It is nice to see him happy and playful again.

Here he is doing all of his animal sounds....and some push ups too! He also counted to 12 yesterday, which I wasn't able to get on camera.

February 14, 2011

2011-02-14T17:22:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day! Jeff and I are heading home tomorrow from Hawaii and we are so excited to get home to Vann. He has spent the last week with Grandma Neesie and Popi Rod. Jeff and I have had a wonderful time, but it has been hard seeing all the families here with their kids. We wanted to share some of the photos we have taken of our trip and we will definitely bring Vann next time!

January 31, 2011

2011-01-31T15:30:00.000-08:00

Today was Vann's first day of pre-primary montessori. He did great. He cried a little when we left, but his teacher said he did great the rest of the time.

January 23, 2011

2011-01-23T12:46:00.000-08:00

Vann's new favorite thing to do is jump on his new trampoline that he got for Christmas from his Uncle Mike, Aunt Trish, and cousins (Liz, Emily, Ben and Alison).

As of December 17, 2010, Vann is officially on the growth charts without correcting him back 3.5 months, which is super exciting. He is doing great and starts school in a week! He is going to have so much fun!

January 20, 2011

2011-01-20T20:28:00.000-08:00

We spent the last couple of days in McCall, ID with some friends. It was a nice getaway in a cute little cabin with lots of snow.

Jackie and Vann

The Edwards Family

Vann and Avery

Vann sitting on the snow

January 5, 2011

2011-01-05T18:42:00.000-08:00

Well, we are finally home from our Holiday Road Trip! We left on December 18th and made our way down to Ventura, CA to spend the holidays with Jeff's family. His sister from PA flew over with her family, so Vann was able to finally meet all of his cousins! It was such a great time, can't wait for the next time!

Vann and his cousin Alison

Jeff, Vann and his cousin Elizabeth

Vann, his cousin Nick (the BSU football player), and his cousin Ben

Vann and his Daddy at the beach

All the cousins on Christmas Eve (Emma, Vann, Elizabeth, Alison, Emily, Nick and Ben)

BSU Gameday!!! We beat UTAH!

Vann and his cousin Nick

Vann running on the beach

Vann and his new BSU firetruck (one of a kind)

Vann and his Aunt Trish

Ally's first trip to the beach...she was in heaven

December 12, 2010

2010-12-12T13:05:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow will be Vann's 2nd Birthday...we can't believe how fast the last 2 years have gone. Vann is doing great, he is happy and healthy and talking a lot. It is amazing to watch him now and remember where he started from...what a wonderful miracle.

Vann's Grandma Neesie, Popi Rod, Auntie Jess, Uncle Brandon, Cousin Henry & Cousin Charlie flew over from Portland to celebrate with us! He had fun withe presents, cake and is very thankful to everyone who brought donations for the NICU (special thanks to Aunt Lynna who sent a whole box full of baby clothes all the way from Kentucky for the NICU).

December 2, 2010

2010-12-02T18:20:00.000-08:00

Vann had a great time showing us his skills in sledding as well as eating snow!

December 1, 2010

2010-12-01T11:09:00.001-08:00

It's snowed 7" overnight, so I we took Vann out and he LOVED the snow.

November 28, 2010

2010-11-28T12:57:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! We hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. Ours was great, except for the fact the Broncos lost...it has been hard to accept, but we still bleed blue and orange in this house.

Here are some pictures from the last week:

Our friends Mike and Kristen got this for Vann for X-mas...he loves it!

Vann with his friends Avery and AJ on Thanksgiving.

November 19, 2010

2010-11-19T17:03:00.000-08:00

Our friends Mike and Kristen are here for the weekend visiting and we so so so nice to get Vann an early X-mas present. You can never go wrong with a Vroom Vroom!

November 14, 2010

2010-11-14T18:49:00.001-08:00

Here is a video of Jeff and Vann playing...Vann had a few too many bites of cookie tonight, so he has LOTS of energy!

November 12, 2010

2010-11-12T20:49:00.000-08:00

Vann will official be 23 months old tomorrow, we can't even believe it! He is growing up so fast and is really starting to talk a lot and repeat words. Jeff and I are still completely amazed by him and all of the things he is accomplishing. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect son, Vann inspires us daily! We are still watching Cars all the time, and Vann has even memorized the opening Sheryl Crow song...here is a little video of him watching it!

October 31, 2010

2010-10-31T20:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! Enjoy the pictures!

For those of you who don't know who Yo Gabba Gabba are... I thought the picture above would help. It is Vann's favorite show on Nick Jr.!

October 29, 2010

2010-10-29T18:25:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day today, so we thought we would get out of the house and go take some pictures. Vann has grown so much in the past year and we are just so excited to see him running, talking, and just enjoying life! We will all be dressing up forHalloween, so there will be more pictures to come after the weekend. Happy Halloween!

October 19, 2010

2010-10-19T17:50:00.001-07:00

Vann is obsessed with the movie Cars...he calls it "Vroom Vroom" Here is a little video of our nightly ritual!

October 10, 2010

2010-10-10T15:47:00.000-07:00

Vann is doing great! He is having lots of fun going to Little Gym, playing with friends and going to football games. He will be 22 months old this week:)

Vann slapping the "Home of Champions" sign at Bronco Stadium

Vann standing by the Bronco sign...he thought this was so cool

Vann and his buddies: Jack, Vann and Grady

Vann kicking the ball at Little Gym

Vann getting ready to throw the ball really far

Vann and Grady on the bar

Vann climbing over the hill

September 26, 2010

2010-09-26T11:03:00.000-07:00

It was a big weekend here in Boise. ESPN's College Gameday was in town for the Oregon State vs. Boise State game. It was the first official tailgate of 2010. It is hard to tailgate and enjoy yourself when you have a 21 month old running around all over the place...I was tired!

Vann and Penny

Vann and Shannon...I think Vann has a crush on her!

The Edward's Family

Vann and Avery! She took really good care of him!

September 16, 2010

2010-09-16T20:03:00.000-07:00

So sorry it has taken me so long to update the blog. You think I would have plenty of time since I am not working, but I have been doing a lot of volunteering at the hospital, which has kept me busy.

We took a quick trip to California to visit Jeff's family at the end of August and just got back from Portland where we got to visit my family. All in all, it has been a great and busy summer. Vann is growing so much and continues to bring so much joy to our lives. He makes us smile all day long!

Vann, his cousin Emma and Nicholas

Vann playing at the playground in Portland

Vann going down the slide all by himself

Grandma Neesie walking with Vann and Henry

Papi Rod with Henry and Vann

Henry, Charlie and Vann in their Hurley shirts

August 25, 2010

2010-08-25T18:49:00.000-07:00

I have had a great time being home with Vann. We have been getting outside a lot and he really likes to mow the lawn...he has a lawn mower for inside and a lawn mower for outside.

Here are some pictures we got of our little guy...he is 20.5 months old...can you believe it?

August 22, 2010

2010-08-22T20:51:00.000-07:00

It was a long week at The Edwards' house...I got laid off on Monday, which was a total surprise. The good news is, I got to spend a lot of unexpected time with Vann. He always puts a smile on my face. We had a great week together and I look forward to just taking a break and enjoying life a little bit. I am so lucky to have Jeff and Vann in my life, they always seem to make things better!

Vann had to show off his new sunglasses that his Papa Ron and Grandma Kathy bought him a couple of weeks ago!

August 15, 2010

2010-08-15T19:57:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend. We took Vann for a bike ride in his little trailer and it was successful:) He turned 20 months old on Friday, we can't even believe it. He is really starting repeat and talk a lot more. Here is a video of some of the things he can say...

August 8, 2010

2010-08-08T18:08:00.000-07:00

We have had a wonderful weekend. Vann was lucky enough to have his Grandma Kathy and Papa Ron come visit him all the way from California. He had a blast with them. We went to McCall, went to the Boise Beerfest (no, Vann did not have any beer) and we took Vann golfing for the first time!

Vann's first REAL putt

Riding in the cart with Grandma and Papa Ron

3 Generations

Walking with Dad to the green

Hmmm...which club should I use?

Did I really hit it that far?

I am ready to go...whose riding with me?

At the Beerfest

This is so much fun!

On our way to McCall...beautiful drive. Vann is looking for an airplane!

August 1, 2010

2010-08-01T18:20:00.000-07:00

We had a nice relaxing weekend. Vann is amazing us still every day. He got to go visit Nurse Carol today at the NICU and she was just stunned watching him show her his belly button, nose, eyes, ears and mouth. He is such a smart little guy. His new words are...airplane, belly button, water.

After his nap we took him downtown to the fountain to let him splash around! This boy LOVES water:)

July 25, 2010

2010-07-25T20:17:00.001-07:00

We spent the weekend in Seattle with my mom and dad and our friends Rune and Patty. We had an amazing time and took Vann to his first Mariners Game!

July 18, 2010

2010-07-18T18:17:00.001-07:00

We found Vann the perfect chair for tailgating this year and it was even his size!!!

Vann also has been having a blast pushing his new lawn mower around...thanks Brian and Lesley!

July 11, 2010

2010-07-11T19:12:00.001-07:00

It has been hot here in Boise, so we took Vann to one of the city pools on Friday! He LOVED it...he wouldn't stop laughing!

Here are some cute pictures of all of us playing in the pool...we will definitely be going back!

June 25, 2010

2010-06-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

Vann having fun in his pool!

Here awesome cute photos we took tonight!!!

June 20, 2010

2010-06-20T18:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day!

We had quite a busy week with cousins and nephew in town for the Boise State Broncos Football camp. Even though it was crazy, I have to say I had a blast. All the boys were so awesome, and I know Vann really enjoyed having them around. Jeff's cousin Kelly came from AZ with her son, and so it was nice to have another girl in the house! I already miss everyone:(

Casey, Tyler, Ben and Jeff (Vann was sleeping)

Tyler, Vann (talking to his girlfriend), Ben

Tyler, Vann, and Ben

June 14, 2010

2010-06-14T19:43:00.001-07:00

It finally reached above 80 here today, so I stopped off and got Vann a shark pool on my way home from work. He wasn't too sure about it at first, but then loved splashing around!

June 13, 2010

2010-06-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend. Jeff's cousin Casey is in town for football camp and then Vann went to his first wedding. He was such a trooper.

Today Vann is officially 18 months old. We can't believe it!

June 5, 2010

2010-06-05T09:31:00.000-07:00

Today was a very exciting day to Little Gym. It was the last class of the winter session...so we made sure to get lots of video!

June 3, 2010

2010-06-03T18:04:00.000-07:00

What a great day today was. Vann had an MRI on his head and then a follow up appointment with the Neurosurgeon...WE ARE IN THE CLEAR, Vann's head looks great. At this point in the game, the hydrocephalus has cured itself and we don't have to see him for a year! After 18 long months, Jeff and I can breath again:) We are so thankful for the amazing care he has gotten and for his strength...we are truly blessed!

Second thing, Vann started walking today!!!

June 2, 2010

2010-05-30T20:34:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Papi Rod! This is a picture of Vann and his Papi Rod when Vann was still in the hospital.

Vann is officially a big cousin. Charlie Bennett Maskew was born Saturday at 3:55pm, 7 lb. 9 oz. and 20.5 inches long! Vann can't wait to go meet him sometime soon. Here is Henry kissing his new brother Charlie...so precious!

Vann is so lucky to have 4 beautiful girl cousins (Elizabeth, Emily, Allison, Emma) and 4 handsome boy cousins (Ben, Nicholas, Henry, Charlie)! Vann is excited to finally meet his cousin Ben, who is coming to Boise in a couple of weeks for football camp!

Vann had lots of fun with his Grandma Neesie while she was visiting, they did a lot of walking around!

Baby Charlie got to come home on Monday from the hospital, so Vann wanted to say hi and show him some of his tricks!

May 29, 2010

2010-05-29T14:56:00.000-07:00

Well today is a very exciting day. Vann is going to be a big cousin...we are waiting for my brother and sister-in-law to have their new little boy!

In the meantime, Vann has had a fun weekend with his Grandma Neesie. We have played and eaten a lot of good food. Vann is doing great. He is starting to say a lot more. His vocabulary consists of: yes, doggy, milk, Ally, mom, dad, kick, hi!

May 11, 2010

2010-05-11T18:39:00.000-07:00

And off he goes....

Vann and his Daddy!

Our friend Erin made Vann these awesome pants, so we had to have a fun photo session with them. They are officially his "magic" pants because after we put them on him he walked all the way into the kitchen while pushing his train...we are so excited!

May 9, 2010

2010-05-09T14:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!!!

April 28, 2010

2010-04-28T18:14:00.001-07:00

We were finally able to catch the "Funky Chicken" on video. This is one of Vann's newest tricks!

Aunt Sarah, Vann and Cousin Emma

Cousin Nicholas, Cousin Emma and Vann

Jeff's Aunt Carol, Grandma Lorraine, Vann and Aunt Gloria

Aunt Trish and Vann...he was so excited to finally meet her!

Vann and mommy on the airplane

April 24, 2010

2010-04-24T21:09:00.000-07:00

We are in Ventura, California visiting Jeff's family and here to celebrate his Grandma's 85th birthday! Vann got to go to the beach for the first time today and finally put his feet in the water...he loved it! We have been have a great time spending time with our nephew Nicholas and niece Emma. They are both so sweet with Vann and we can't believe how big they are getting. Jeff's other sister also flew in from PA and finally got to meet Vann. All in all, we are having a great time!

April 17, 2010

2010-04-17T21:00:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since we have updated the blog...time is flying and we just can't believe it.

Vann's surgery went really well. We will have to wait until August to do another VCUG (test) to see if the procedure worked and if so, then no more medication!

Pre-Surgery

Post-Surgery

Ok...I am ready to go home now!

It has been beautiful here and we got to enjoy our day today going to the Blue and Orange Scrimmage. The Boise State Broncos took the field and we had a blast cheering them on.

April 4, 2010

2010-04-04T16:45:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter! We had a nice and relaxing day. The Easter Bunny stopped by our house and brought Vann this really cool Radio Flyer Red Wagon. It was quite windy outside, so we weren't able to go very far, but he did a little test drive and LOVES IT

!

March 29, 2010

2010-03-29T17:55:00.000-07:00

Vann's bath time! He loves to stick his face in the water!Oh, and we decided to give him crazy hair after his bath tonight. He thought it was really funny:)

March 27, 2010

2010-03-27T10:02:00.000-07:00

Today we took Vann to his first Little Gym class. He had a blast. It was really fun for him to be around other kids his age and he loved crawling all over the equipment. Let's just say, he wasn't shy at all. At one point during a group song, he crawled over to another family and sat in the dad's lap...he was hilarious!

He also hasn't been too interested in us feeding him anymore, he likes to feed himself, as you can see below, he has a blast doing it!

March 20, 2010

2010-03-20T18:27:00.000-07:00

Vann had another busy week. We went and saw the Pediatrician on Monday and he weighed 19 lbs. 15 oz. Grandma Neesie and Papi Rod flew over from Portland to hang out with Vann. He has been having a blast.

March 14, 2010

2010-03-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

It was a long week for Vann. On Monday, we had to take him in to get a follow-up ultrasound of his kidneys and a VCUG (a catheter is put in him and they pump fluid in him until his bladder is full, they then can see if he has reflux in his kidneys). It was horrible for Jeff and I to see him go through it. Met with the Urologist on Thursday and he still has reflux and she really wants to get him off of the antibiotics he has been taking since he was born to prevent UTI's. So, he will be going in on April 6th for surgery. They will put a scope in him and do these injections on his side since he has bilateral reflux. The point of these injections are to hopefully create a seal so he will no longer have any more reflux. We will then get him tested in August to see if the surgery worked. Keep your fingers crossed!

March 7, 2010

2010-03-07T10:30:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we took Vann to the Boise Zoo for the first time. He was speechless with all the different kinds of animals. We had a blast. Vann is also taking "big boy" baths now, so we had to get some photos of that too!

February 16, 2010

2010-02-16T16:26:00.000-08:00

We finally got some of Vann's tricks on video! This past weekend, Jimmy Mackedon taught Vann how to wave and now his does it all the time. He is also getting really good at sticking his tongue out like a lizard!

February 15, 2010

2010-02-15T13:52:00.000-08:00

We just had the best weekend. We went to Fallon, Nevada to visit some old friends and had a blast! It was funny to realize that all of my friends have had boys...we need to meet up once a year and get all of the boys together, that would be so much fun!

The Mackedon's with Vann and Baby Jackson!

Me, Vann, Emily and Jackson

Vann and his buddy Owen

My friend Michelle with her son Kai and Vann

Darlene and Vann

My friend Sam and Dan with her son Lucas

The Flores' and Vann

Buddies...Jackson and Vann

February 7, 2010

2010-02-07T08:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Super Bowl Sunday! Go Saints!

Well here are some pictures that we have taken over the last week or so. Vann is going to be 14 months this coming Saturday and we can't believe it. We are going to Fallon, Nevada next weekend to visit some good friends, can't wait!

February 2, 2010

2010-02-02T18:12:00.000-08:00

Vann LOVES to drum on the sliding glass door. He also gets super excited when Ally is out there because he loves to talk to her through the window!

Vann is starting to show signs of dancing!

January 24, 2010

2010-01-24T17:58:00.001-08:00

We took a little trip today up to Bogus Basin Ski Resort to show Vann the snow and take some awesome pictures. We had such a great time as a family and can't wait till Vann is old enough to go sledding and skiing.

January 17, 2010

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Vann's first 2 teeth!

January 6, 2010

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It sure was a great week for us Broncos! Fiesta Bowl Celebration!

January 2, 2009

2010-01-03T13:43:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year! We are looking forward to starting 2010 on a good note. Vann is doing great. He weighs 18lb. 5oz. and is pulling himself up to standing...ahhh! We have to keep our eyes on him at all times.

We met with the Neurosurgeon this week and they are thrilled with his progress and said his ventricles look great. They don't feel that he will have any developmental delays from his brain issue, if he has any...they will most likely be from his prematurity. We don't have to go back until June, and at that visit they will do a one shot MRI to take a look at his ventricles and hopefully everything will look great again!

We truly feel so lucky to have gotten such great news...our little guy is just a normal baby, he is perfect in every way!

December 29, 2009

2009-12-29T12:11:00.000-08:00

Well, it was a busy day today. Vann had his swimming lessons and then we headed over to the hospital to see the Neurosurgeon.

Great news! Every thing looks great, ventricles look awesome and we don't have to go back until June. The Dr. said that he feels if Vann has any type of developmental delays it will probably be due to his prematurity and not his ventricles. They also said, "Vann is one of our success stories."

Vann Coughing

2009-12-27T12:51:00.000-08:00

This is Vann's new thing...he thinks it is so funny to make himself cough!

Vann's Alphabet Train

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Vann loves riding his new alphabet train that Santa brought him!

December 25, 2009

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Merry Christmas!

December 12, 2009

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Vann's 1st Birthday Party...one day before his real birthday!

December 8, 2009

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Vann is enjoying his big X-mas tree!

Vann and his daddy hanging out by all the pretty lights!

Vann sitting like a big boy, playing with his toys!

Here Vann is splish splashing in the bath...this is his favorite thing!

November 22, 2009

2009-11-22T16:57:00.000-08:00

It's big boy bath time! Vann had an amazing time in the bath tonight. He was splashing and kicking, it was hilarious:)

Here are some other great photos that Jeff has taken over the last few weeks!

November 21, 2009

2009-11-21T14:39:00.000-08:00

Vann had a great time this week with his Grandma Neesie. She came over to watch him while Jeff left town for work. Vann is sitting up by himself and loves to clap.

We also had some 12 month pictures taken of Vann. Of course they all turned out good, so it is going to be hard to decide which ones to get. Here are just a couple from the collection.

November 17, 2009

2009-11-17T16:27:00.000-08:00

Today Vann ventured out with his Daddy and they did their first Parent-Tot swim class. They both had so much fun and Vann did awesome. I was able to stop by and take some photos! This is such a great thing for them to do together!

November 15, 2009

2009-11-15T14:14:00.001-08:00

Vann turned 11 months old on Friday, we can't believe it. He is really getting big and talking a lot. It mostly consists of excited screams and "da da da"...oh, and rolling lips sounds. He tried his first teething biscuit today, which he loved!!! Here are some pictures for you to enjoy!

November 5, 2009

2009-11-05T17:43:00.001-08:00

Vann is sooo close to actually crawling. His physical therapist (Sky) was so excited to see him army crawl across the room today. He really impressed her and she said he should be crawling in no time. We captured some video, so enjoy!

Jeff also captured a great picture today of Vann doing his face that he makes all the time...it is the most hilarious thing. We have tried to get it on video, but just haven't been successful yet.

Here are some more pictures from his therapy session today!

November 1, 2009

2009-11-01T12:55:00.000-08:00

Vann enjoyed his first Halloween. Trick or Treating happened right in the middle of his nap time, so he didn't last too long in his costume, but we did get a cute picture.

Last weekend Vann came down with the stomach flu and then past it on to me, so we have been quite lazy with pictures, but hopefully we can get some good ones this week to post. He is doing great and just continues to grow and still working on crawling.

October 17, 2009

2009-10-17T21:09:00.000-07:00

Vann went in on Thursday for his CT scan and appointment with Dr. Cherny (Neurosurgeon). His stint has been pushed out of his aqueduct canal and is sitting to the side of it not blocking it, which is great news. So far everything looks great. With that in mind, it is still a waiting game to see what is going to happen. There are 3 things that can happen:

1. THIS IS WHAT WE WANT...His aqueduct canal will stay open, the cerebral fluid with continue to flow and there will not be any issues. If this is the case then in a couple of years we can get everything taken out.

2. His aqueduct canal will close not allowing the cerebral fluid to flow and cause it to build up. At this point, Dr. Cherny may be able to insert another stint and/or tap fluid and see if the canal will open.

3. WORST CASE, WE DON'T WANT THIS...His aqueduct canal will stay open and his body will not absorb the cerebral fluid causing him to develop hydrocephalus. If this happens then Dr. Cherny will have to give Vann a shunt.

So, we are thinking positive thoughts as everything has been looking great. Dr. Cherny is extremely pleased with Vann's progress and amazed at how well he is developing. He is just like a normal baby.

We will keep you posted. We don't have to follow up for another 3 months. We know that Vann is going to be just fine and continue to grow and be an amazing little guy:)

October 11, 2009

2009-10-11T20:29:00.000-07:00

We flew to Portland on Thursday to visit Grandma Denise, Grandpa Rod, Uncle Brandon, Auntie Jess, Cousin Henry and all of our other family and friends. Vann did great on the plane and besides a little sniffly nose, he was been hilarious. It has been great for him to play with his Cousin Henry, who is growing like a weed.
Grandma Denise and Auntie Jess planned a little party for Vann so he could meet all of his family and friends who prayed for him while he was in the hospital. It was truly great to see everyone and we had a wonderful time!!! Thank you:)

October 3, 2009

2009-10-03T21:43:00.000-07:00

It has been a fun weekend. Boise State honored the 1999 Football team today at the Homecoming Game, so the weekend has been filled with reunion events. It has been fun to see all the guys and exciting for Jeff to hang out with old friends.

Theresa, Vann's Respiratory Therapist from the NICU came over yesterday to hang out with him. She made him the most amazing quilt that he will cherish forever. We just love her:)

Vann had a great time flirting with his new girlfriend. Our friend Davy has a little girl who is 2 1/2 years old and she is a cutie.

september 21, 2009

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There is nothing cuter than a baby laughing!!!

September 21, 2009

2009-09-21T18:52:00.001-07:00

Vann had his physical therapy today and he is almost 15lbs...he weighed in at 14lbs. 14.5oz. He did awesome. She was so impressed at his progress. He had a great week last week because he got to hang out with our great friend Mike who was visiting from CA and he also got some new jammies:) Enjoy the pictures!

September 13, 2009

2009-09-13T10:33:00.000-07:00

Mr. Vann is 9 months old today. 3 more months and we will be having a party! He had an eventful weekend...tailgate and I dressed him up in his Halloween costume (Vann the Dragon). I just had to, I couldn't wait any longer! Enjoy:)

September 7, 2009

2009-09-07T16:30:00.000-07:00

It has been a great long weekend. I have really enjoyed being home with Vann and spending some great time with him! We had a lot to do...Bronco game, BBQ, our friends 30th birthday and finally some relaxing.

September 3, 2009

2009-09-04T10:01:00.000-07:00

Today was a big day for Vann. He attended his first Boise State Bronco tailgate against the Oregon ducks. This was a big game for us and we kicked their butt!!!

Aidan, Vann and Kara

Marissa and Vann

Angie, Annie, Vann and Kara

Best Buds! AJ and Vann

Miss Heidi and Vann

Auntie Heater (Heather) and Uncle Stroh...The Strohfus Family and Vann

Vann's favorite coach! Coach Huff and Vann before the game!

Mommy, Daddy and Vann

August 30, 2009

2009-08-30T13:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Vann finally rolled onto his tummy for the first time all by himself! We were able to get it on camera this morning, enjoy! Beware: My voice is a little loud:)

August 27, 2009

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We decided to have a little photo session in the backyard today. Vann also wanted to show off his new Bronco hat that his daddy got him!

August 23, 2009

2009-08-23T17:55:00.000-07:00

I think we are all finally getting over this horrible cold. Vann had a pretty eventful weekend. We took him to the Tour de Fat, which is a charity event that Fat Tire brew puts on, with beer and music. No, Vann did not drink any beer, but he enjoyed the music and it was nice for Jeff and I to get out and socialize.

As you can see, Vann loves to stand. He also loves his chunky thighs...I told him this is the only time in his life that it is okay to have them!!! In that last picture, you can tell that Vann does not like the way the grass feels, that is the first time he has felt it!

We had to try on his Bronco beanies as Boise State's first game against Oregon is coming up in less than 2 weeks...I don't t

hink it will be cold enough for him to need his beanie!

Oh, and how could I forget Ally...this is the first time we have seen her just jump up on the chairs in the back yard. She had an amazing week because she has lost 8 lbs...which is great because that is how much the vet told her to lose. Way to go Ally!

August 17, 2009

2009-08-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

Vann has his first little cold. Poor guy, he is pretty snuffed up:( He had physical therapy today and weighed in at 14 lbs. Can you believe it??? He is a healthy chubby baby!

We went and saw the Neurosurgeon last Tuesday...everything looks the same, so we have to go back in October which is when they will do the CT scan and we will know more about the stint placement then. We just have to wait and see...that's the hardest part!

August 13, 2009

2009-08-13T17:20:00.000-07:00

Vann is 8 months old today, yahoo! In the last couple of days he has been a lot more interactive with us. He has a lot to say. He is also eating really good. He knows exactly when to open his mouth and sometimes blows the food back at us! His legs are getting a lot stronger. We are able to prop him up next to the ottoman and he can stand there by himself for a split second.

After we got back from California visiting Jeff's family, Vann got to spend sometime with my parents who were here babysitting the dog:)