Team Kobes

2010-07-16T12:41:00.002-10:00

Holden

Holden saying HIIII

Cael

Cael getting a shot

Don't wake me... Cael gets his morning face from daddy

Happy Birthday Cael and Holden

2010-07-16T12:15:00.002-10:00

Today, July 16th, 2010 or babies Cael and Holden, were born at Henricho Doctors Hospital in Richmond, Virginia. Cael was 3lbs 13oz and born at 11:42am, Holden followed shortly after at 11:49am.
At 8:30am I woke up from a quick nap with an urge to go #1. I used the bed pan and started leaking allll over the place. I thought I was losing control of my bladder, seriously. It's moving day for us also so I didn't want to worry Joe until I was pretty sure my water broke. I paged the nurse and didn't want to announce to the speaker that I was loosing my bladder all over the place, so I was like ummmm, can you send my nurse, uh, my bed pan is full. My nurse came in and I told her I thought my water broke. She then went to go get a strip that turns from green to blue if it is amniotic fluid instead of tinkle. Then Doctor Royal came in, I explained everything and we both we're thinking it may just be a weak bladder (like one of the babies is laying on it or something). She said she would check on me after the strip showed positive or negative. The nurse then put the strip (I don't know what chemical the strip uses) on a pad and placed it in position. She said ok, if your water did break it's going to turn blue, I'll check back in 30 minutes but if you just have to know you can peak, just don't touch the strip. So, of course the second she left I checked, it was cobalt BLUE!!! I was like oh SHOOT! I called Joe, he was super calm, of course, even though the movers were at the house and ready to start moving. He told my dad, who is in town to help (which he is doing SOOOOOO much of, couldn't do this without you daddy, seriously though, we owe you big time), and my dad said we got it (we being Him and Hudson, and it being the move), and he sent Joe on his way. By this time it was 9:30. The nurse came in and I was like I'm contracting and the strip is blue. So they moved me down to labor and delivery. The rest went literally so fast. If I weren't on bed rest in the hospital I fear the babies would have been born in the car. My contractions were coming so fast and so hard. At around 10:30 the doctor checked and I was 6cm dilated, by 11 I was in serious pain and had tons of pressure. I asked for an epidural and got it shortly after. I asked the nurse to please check me because I feel like there is a head chillin between my legs. She checked and said, oh, oh wow, ok, yep, i have to go get the doctor, we have to move you to the O.R. you're 10cm. The moved me, we waited for the circus of nurses and doctors and more nurses pile into the room, doctor said push, push, and Cael was born. I took about 5 deep breaths, then push, push, push, push, and Holden was born. It was the fastest birth ever I feel like. I felt EVERY bit of it!!! Epidural did not have a chance to work, oh well.
Our babies are doing so well. They are very small and will be in the NICU for about 5 weeks. We feel very blessed by God and are so thankful for the amazing miracles we have in our life. It's amazing how much you can love someone(s) so much, you just met!

30 weeks pregnant and in the hospital

2010-07-09T03:33:00.003-10:00

On July 6th, 2010, we went to the OB for my 30 week ultrasound. The babies looked so great. Weighing in at 3lbs 6oz and 3lbs 1oz (give or take for the second one, they couldn't get his correct measurements b/c he was down in my pelvis). Then we went into the exam room. He felt my belly, said everything was looking good. Then did the cervix exam. He found that I was 3cm dilated and said I just got a ticket to the hospital. I was worried, heartbroken, and completely blamed myself. Then he explained it wasn't anything I did. I'm not a big person and the babies are great. Its my body, that only had 15 months to recover from another baby to go on and carry two at one time, plus my body thinks there is a 7lb baby in there who is ready to come out. Anywhoo, I had to go to the hospital. The first night and next day were hell! I was dealing with being in a hospital alone while my husband and son were at home, oh I miss them. My family being so far away made it harder as well. Joe had to take care of the two cars on day 1, plus signing for our new home on post, and deal with the financial issues.
Anyway, needless to say, we have a lot on our plate right now. My dad just arrived to Virginia today, bringing a gift from Katy Hoyle (such a good friend), to help Joe and Hudson with all the errands and give Joe some time to spend with me in the hospital. Hudson was acting up last night after Joe put him to bed. It was like he had nightmares I guess. Joe thinks its because he misses his mommy. I like to hear that. Just so you know Hudson, there isn't a second that goes by I don't think about you and your daddy. You guys are always on my mind. I just have to be in here to make sure your brothers are strong and healthy when they decide to come into the world.
Today is July 9th and I'm not having many contractions at all. They gave me Ambien to make me sleep last night so I'm a little out of it this morning but I did get some rest. When I first got here they gave me Magnesium and 2 shots of steroids (in the butt) to slow the contractions and help with the babies brains and lungs. Those drugs worked! The second night here they gave me promethazine and demerol because I was having contractions. Both Joe and I were very apprehensive about me taking such strong drugs but after long discussions with the doctors it was the right thing to do. It sucks after avoiding everything from fish to caffeine to insure these babies would be a healthy as can be and now having to get drugs pumped into me. Grrr! But if it helps keep them in there we'll deal with it. This is the longest post I've ever posted I think. I just hope and pray everyday that these two amazing men stay inside and continue to develop to be strong and healthy babies.

Virginia Aquarium trip

2010-06-26T07:05:00.002-10:00

Yesterday, June 25th, 2010, we took a two hour drive to Virginia Beach to visit the Virginia Aquarium. Hudson LOVES his fish! These pics are from the trip. We had a great time!

and we start the month of June

2010-06-16T07:19:00.002-10:00

Love this picture!

27 week bump, yes thats 27 not 37!!!! There are two in there, remember.

May 2010 part 2

2010-06-16T06:55:00.003-10:00

Our new addition. We adopted this 2 year old pug and named him Buddy. He is AMAZING with Hudson. He's wonderful!

ISH ISH

Daddy and Hudson at Maymont park in Richmond, Virginia

The Huddy Buddy! Isn't he tooooo freaking cute!

@ the phx airport :( I miss my parents!

@ the surprise twin shower! Thank you ladies!!!

May 2010

2010-06-16T06:27:00.003-10:00

22 week bump

My black and white hair... ick!

Hudson w/Great-Grandma Laura

Mothers Day 2o10

Hudson Swim Time

Hudson and Grandpa Johnson

Random

2010-04-27T15:49:00.001-10:00

8 days until we move. So much to do everyday. I wonder if we will go to the beach one more time? I hope so. We have a 2 hour, 2 HOUR ultrasound tomorrow. WHAT!!! I guess b/c its the "big one" and they are twins its going to take that long. snooze! I'm still excited to see them and make sure they are ok. Oh, I pray they are!

20 weeks

2010-04-23T13:19:00.003-10:00

I'll be 20 weeks pregnant with twins this Saturday

Moving in 12 Days!

2010-04-23T13:13:00.002-10:00

Count 'em, 12!!!! Are we packed, haha! Funny! Nope, we aren't. Will the miltiary pack us, yes they will. If you want your stuff unorganized and broken. So who ever wants to fly to Hawaii and help pack, you are invited! Come now...

A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

2010-04-17T17:11:00.002-10:00

Thank you everyone who remembered my birthday! You are the best! I had a great spa day followed by a relaxing resort dip in the pool with live music with my daddy, husband, and son. Such a great day! Thank you all for the well wishes and wonderful gifts. xoxo!

Easter Pictures

2010-04-16T11:58:00.002-10:00

Hudson Loves the Easter Bunny!

Already a great birthday!

2010-04-16T08:18:00.002-10:00

My birthday isn't until tomorrow but I've already had a wonderful birthday! Joe and my parents plotted a surprise visit from my dad for a few days. He arrived on Wednesday and is here until Monday. Usually when some surprise is planned I have a hunch or a pretty good idea something is going on. Not a clue! I'm so excited and was so surprised! On Tuesday afternoon Joe got a call from our realitor saying we have a couple showings coming up, one on Wednesday, one on Thursday, and Sunday. Turns out Joe made up the Wed showing to get us out of the house. Once we left he got a call from his old 1st Sgt. asking if we could help him out and plllllease pick up his sister in law (which I heard was a big pain in the you know what) from the airport. It was 11am and she was to arrive at 11:40. We didn't know the flight number or where it was coming in from so he called 1st Sgt back to find out the info. The flight was to be an hour late. We went and walked around the NEX to kill the time. "She" called Joe when the plane arrived. So we headed back to the airport. We missed the first terminal so we went around the airport a second time. The whole time I'm thinking to my self... I wonder if she is going to be rude to us. I had Joe ask her what she was wearing so we would know who to look for. So I'm looking for a fat, rude lady in a black shirt and blue jeans. All of a sudden I see this bright blue shirt, I do a double take, then shout at the top of my lungs... "DADDY!!!!!!" I about jumped out of the moving car until I realized I still had my seatbelt on... its a good thing I move so slow these days. That could have hurt! I'm so excited my daddy is here!!! The only way it could be better is if my mommy could have made it. Thank you mommy, daddy, and Joe for the great surprise. You really got me! I love you. I'm SO PUMPED!

Where to start when getting ready for twins?

2010-04-12T13:02:00.002-10:00

This is NUTS!!! We're moving across the country in 3 1/2 weeks, we aren't packed, and I'm getting HUGE!!!! OMG! We need a new car, a twin stroller, new car seats, two of every single thing!!! I talk to a lady the other day who had to be in the hospital for 5 weeks starting at 30 weeks, for observation & bed rest, guess that's common. Um, what! I look like I'm 36 weeks right now, I'm only 18!!!! My tummy is growing rapidly and it scares me. So, strollers, what is the best stroller for infant twins? What is the best car seats for infant twins? What the heck else do we need to prepare for these little guys?
We think we have names, but we aren't telling... yet.
I'm tired.
Hudson is already in his terrible twos. Ha! He has started with the separation anxiety and throws a fit whenever we leave him in church day care. He throws fits when we tell him no, he cant have something or do something he wants to do. Its quite funny but we have to try and not laugh when he's throwing fits. He throws himself on the floor and turns in a circle. OMG! Makes me wet my pants thinking about it. HAHAHA! Dang, I'm bad! He's really not that bad. He just knows what he wants. He talks a lot. We don't know what he is saying but we talk back to him. Its always a nice conversation. We can tell by the expressions on his face what mood he's trying to convey. He is a hoot! We've taken some cute videos of him on our Sony Bloggie, which we got to POST ON THE BLOG!!!! IT SAYS BLOGGIE, YOU'D THINK IT WORKS W/BLOGGER!!!! We'll, I cant get them to post. I dont know how to do it. Help. K, I'm bored. Bye :)

Oh the stress!

2010-04-09T07:23:00.002-10:00

With moving in less than 30 days we keep adding on the stress. Are we packed? Nope! Good news is our house got an offer the first showing, which was less than 24 hours after it was listed. So we will hopefully sell soon. We're ready to offload this place and just get out from under it so we can move on already.
We've been looking for used SUV's and the dreaded minivans to purchase on the mainland. We plan to sell the Mercedes b/c it will never be a family car, and maybe the Honda, before we leave Hawaii. Then get a used vehicle just to get us to the hospital, get groceries, etc, until our house is completely off our hands. Then get a hybrid SUV! I'm excited for that day.
We have so much going on its crazy! I'm worried about all the twin stuff. We need 2 more car seats, a twin stroller that will hold 2 newborns (of course my favorite Phil & Ted stroller wont hold 2 newborns, I contacted the customer support), 2 bouncers and swings, 2 of everything else.... aaaaagah!!!
There is going to be a shower in Phoenix on May 16th (I think, the date isn't final), where we're asking for
1.) money for the twins cord blood banking
2.) gift card to one place, we haven't decided where
3.) money toward the two car seats and stroller (my mom will be collecting the pot)
We don't exactly need clothes. But, we don't have many things that match each other, so a couple twin outfits would be cute.
We're realizing how stressful the next year of our lives are going to be. I start to get anxiety and Joe makes me calm down. He says everything is going to be ok.
I met a lady yesterday with twin 6 month old boys. She said you will not remember the first two months. That's good. The experience will be so stressful our subconscious actually blocks it from our mind. HAHAHA GRRRRREAT!!!! HELP!!!! HAHA! WOW! WE can do it. RIght?

We're getting ready to move

2010-04-01T14:13:00.003-10:00

Our time in Hawaii is about up, thank goodness. Don't get me wrong, I love Hawaii. It just has bad juju... every time we're here, Joe deploys. So, we're going to try and sell the place and get the heck out of dodge. Where are we headed to? Virginia. Whoo hoo. The babies will be Virginians... haha, I've always wanted to use that word. Anyway, yea, it's still far away but at least we can drive to... wherever. With the twins and Hudson, we're not going to be flying much so we are planning, as of right now, to get a hybrid SUV once our place sells, to drive allllll over the map! I can't believe this is all really happening. We're moving across the US in less than 2 months, actually in about a month we'll be moving. HOLY COW!!! Then we will have 3 little boys. 3 little monkeys. Oh geeze... Virginia is beautiful, u should come visit. Bring allergy meds though... They get to me because I've been spoiled living in allergy free environments. Nice. Ok, gotta go get fro yo! yummm!

Anyone have BDay pics?

2010-03-23T11:34:00.002-10:00

We were so busy at Huds birthday we didn't take many, if any, pictures. We did catch some on video but I don't have the patience to post it. Boo. Does anyone have pics of the party? If so can u please email them. I have these two from Lindsey. Thx Lindsey!

We had a great trip!

2010-03-23T07:19:00.002-10:00

We are back in Hawaii after a GREAT trip to Phoenix. I only saw my friends 1-2 times this trip which is a bummer but I spent a lot of quality time with my parents and family! We had so much fun! I'm sad to be back, I know, how can I be sad to be back in Hawaii... easy, I'm far from my family :(. We are planning to be back around June, before the twins are born. Joe says maybe we can drive to Virginia from there and map out all the hospitals so if I go into labor on the road we'll know where to go. HAHA! He's so cute. Thank you everyone for coming to Huds Birthday party. He had a blast and he loves his gifts!!!! We miss you already!

Thank you Katie

2010-03-16T03:43:00.005-10:00

We took family pics with Katie Rounds yesterday and she worked on posting them all night, I think, crazy! I was so excited to see a text from her this morning saying she posted the pics. Hudson did not want anything to do with the camera. He literally ran the other way. He's so funny. We didn't think we got any good shots. Well, I was wrong! They are so cute! I look totally pregnant, duh, and you can't see my eyes when I smile, haha. Here is the link to the pics I love so much! Thank you Katie, you're the best! http://roundsphotography.blogspot.com/2010/03/k-family.html

Twins Ultrasound Pics

2010-03-15T07:11:00.002-10:00

We had a private ultrasound done at Stork Vision in Chandler. It was the BEST!!! I highly reccomend them! This is where we found out both baby A and baby B are BOYS!

Happy 1st Birthday Hudson

2010-03-14T17:31:00.003-10:00

Hudson's first birthday and 1st birthday party was today. We had such a blast. It started at 1:30ish and ran until about 7ish. We're pooped! We all had so much fun. Hudson was in his own world and wanted to do his own thing. He looked so cute! Thank you to everyone who wore their Barnyard gear!!! Too cute! A lot of Hudsons family and friends were here for the celebration. He had an adorable duck cake he didn't want any part of, we pin'd the tail on the donkey that he wasn't interested in, and we forgot to open the gifts and play the other games until it was too late... haha! We had too much fun! The gifts were WONDERFUL!!! Thank you everyone! You all helped make this day perfect. I have to give special thanks to my amazing parents and husband... I'd be lost without you, really I would!

Two more Kobes boys, LOOK OUT NFL!!!

2010-03-13T14:46:00.002-10:00

NFL here we come! Let the Kobes boys into the 1st round of the draft! Yep, Thats right, the twins are boys. I have to say at first I was a little sad until I realized how freaking lucky I am! I still get to be the princess in the house!! HAHA! Joe is pumped and bought a lottery ticket because today is his lucky day. Well, looks like we're just going to have to try again for a girl ;) wink wink

I'm as happy as a pig in poop

2010-03-12T10:13:00.002-10:00

Being in Phoenix with my friends and family, the puppies, my husband, and our babies makes me so happy. As Joe would say... I'm as happy as a pig in poop. Haha! Sick!

The Kobes Family is in Phoenix

2010-03-08T18:54:00.003-10:00

We arrived in Phx midnight on Saturday. The flight went real well again. We got compliments on how well behaved Hudson was. When we got on the airplane we saw the looks on some of the faces around us. We knew what they were thinking, we've thought those thoughts many times ourselves. So we were again, pleasantly surprised with how it turned out!
Its FREAKING COLD HERE!!! We came with our Hawaii clothes, no sweaters, and 2 pair of pants... guess we should have checked the forecast. Oops. Haha! It's Phoenix, It's supposed to be sunny. Hudsons birthday is Sunday and I don't think there will be a lot of swimming. We will be planning stuff like bean bag toss, pin the tail on the jackass, and so much more. We also decided against bobbing for apples since the kids are so little. We don't want anyone drowning trying to take a bite. I'm so excited for his birthday and to see all the friends and family I haven't seen in FOREVER!
I'm huge. I look like I'm 20 weeks pregnant. Maybe it has something to do with carrying two. My energy is so low and it's funny because I'll be fine one minute, up and going on the daily activities, the next minute, I crash. I feel like I've been hit by an energy sucking meteor. The sad part is not being able to physically hold and handle Hud bud at times because he's too heavy and too squirmy. I'M ONLY 13 WEEKS, YOU GOTTA BE KIDDING ME!!! It's ok, it'll be over in a few months. Then complete exhaustion will hit. HAHA! I've been told many doctors order bed rest for the 3rd trimester. Me, sit on my butt, um, probably not going to happen. I just have to laugh.
That's what's going on right now. It's late, time for bed. Nighty night.

Baby Names... and a lot of random thoughts

2010-03-03T08:59:00.005-10:00

If it wasn't hard enough to pick one name, now we get to pick two... I'm actually very excited about it! Before we found out it was twins I was telling people we wanted to name twin girls Anistyn and Addison. I'm still in love with those names but I don't think its going to be two girls. We will find out on March 13th in Phx! Whoo Hoo!!!
Anyway, we are looking at these names:
GIRLS: Anistyn, Addison, Madison, Payton,... I have to get the rest of the list from Joe
BOYS: hummmm.... Joe liked Chase but that's my cousins sons name, and it reminds me of this dork I went to school with.. haha. I like Aiden, Joe doesn't. We did like Preston and... nope, that's it. We have some thinking to do.

Joe and I are convinced we are having 1 boy and 1 girl. Joe swears he saw a little boy part on our last ultrasound even though the tech said its way too early to tell... they all look the same at this point. I, personally, just don't want to give up the hope that I'll have a little girl. But a part of me thinks Joe is so stubborn, wants all boys so badly, he'll even control that. haha! However, one of the twins is measuring a day younger so maybe the faster swimmer is the older twin (male) and the stronger swimmer is the younger twin (female). I guess we'll just have to see. If you can't tell, it's killin me. Haha!
My due date is September 13th but they said most twins will come by week 35. So we are expecting them around August 9th. We are going to have our work cut out for us. We're so excited though!!! Still in shock and haven't a clue what to expect but we figured if anyone can handle it, it's us. :)

We should be moving from Hawaii to Virginia in May or June. Giving us 2 months to 'nest'. I'm so excited to move! I love Hawaii, I really do, but it's not the best place to live. Unless you retire here. I'm too attached to my family to be so far away. Yes, Virginia is far but it doesn't seem as far. Plus, there are 4 seasons, I've never had that before!

Hudson is wonderful. He turns 1 year old this month! THATS CRAZY!!!! He's walking so well, he actually runs from me when he knows he's done something wrong. He has 6 teeth and is getting 2 more. He still says ADUCK, dada, and mama. He thinks he can talk, he carries on a conversation with himself and others in his own Hud lingo. His facial expressions tell you he really is telling a good story. It cracks me up! He is so excited to see all his friends and family next week. We are all looking forward to this trip.
I am now in maternity clothes. Yep, 12 weeks, in maternity clothes. WHAT!!! My butt is huge, my boobs are gigantic, my tummy is icky, I don't look pregnant, I look BIG! My hair is a wreck (broken and fried), my face has pregnancy discoloration (is more likely with twins), my husband is getting better and better looking and I'm becoming a HOUSE! Haha! Good news is I'm not as nauseous, not as exhausted, am more confident about raising 3 kids, and we're coming to PHOENIX TO SEE OUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!!!!! WHOOO HOOOO!!!!

I'm so blessed to have my family and friends. I thank God for everything he has given us. I'm so happy and thankful Joe is here for this pregnancy. He is being incredible, not a shock, he is incredible! We were watching 'Little Miss Perfect' last night (If you haven't seen this you should watch it at least once. It makes you want and not want a daughter all at the same time) I looked over at Joe and could see in his eyes that he does want a little girl. I just hope she doesn't take his attention from me :) haha!

Ok, thats enough babble for today. Hud is fussing, he has an ear infection, poor little man. Time for some TLC!

OMG!!! TWINS!!!

2010-02-23T13:22:00.003-10:00

All that keeps going through my head is OMG!!! TWINS!!! In the middle of a normal conversation I'll just say oh my... and my mind stops in its tracks and thinks about everything that will change... which will be... everything! So if you plan to have a normal conversation with me in the next 9 months... just don't plan to. I don't mean not to talk to me, haha, just be prepared Becuase I will surely stop and say OMG... TWINS!!!

11 week visit SHOCK

2010-02-22T17:52:00.002-10:00

Today Joe, Hudson, and I started off with an OB appointment. We were very concerned because they weren't planning on doing an ultrasound until 20 weeks!!! So we expressed our concern and explained that I'm crazy and want to make sure our baby was ok. I have had a feeling there was something different about this one. Our doc said she'd help us out and do an informal ultrasound so we can make sure the baby is ok. Once she put the dillybobber(thats the clinical name for it) on my tummy she gasped... then said "um, are you guys ready for this..." I bursted into tears as I looked up and saw the screen... She repeated her question "are you ready for this" I may have said "oh SHIT!"... "congratulations you are expecting TWINS!!!" Joe did not pass out! He kept it together and we are both still in disbelief. So thats our shock... HAHAHA CAN YOU EVEN BELIEVE IT!!!! WE'RE HAVING TWINS!!! WHAT IN THE WORLD... So excited, so nervous, but we know its going to be great... eventually haha!!! we're truely happy!

Change of Command

2010-02-18T14:21:00.004-10:00

Joe had his change of command at last, on Feb 9th, THANK GOODNESS! Since then he has been at home, running errands, and trying to relax. Oh yea, and he had knee surgery two days ago. Since then he's been resting with his leg in the air and hobbling around with his cruches against my will. Hehe! We decided to have a Barn Yard themed 1st Birthday Bash for Hudson on March 14th at my parents house in AZ... Whoo hoo! Here are pictures of Hudson looking like the cutest little man EVER at the Change of Command Ceremony. We went to the Shades house after and he played with the twins, Erin and Zach. We got a couple pics of him on Zachs car. He is a stud!!!!

He Walks, He Eats and makes a HUGE mess!!!

2010-01-29T17:09:00.001-10:00

DADDY LOOKS GOOOOOOOOD!!!!

2010-01-28T17:34:00.001-10:00

Jan 10th... Joe just got home from the Commanders New Years Reception and I had to take a pic of him looking soooooo good!

Why does my BABY look like a little KID?

2010-01-28T16:44:00.000-10:00

I took Hudson up to the base to have lunch with daddy today. As we were walking into the restaurant Joe said its amazing how much Hudson changes every day. Its crazy. We looked at him in his highchair, eating his grilled cheese, and were just in shock how grown up he looks. Our little baby boy is looking like a 2 year old kid! And wears 2T clothes!!!
He's saying DUCK and other words here and there but he loves his duckies!!! He has 4 teeth and I think he's getting 2 more. Is it normal to get 4 bottom teeth before getting any top teeth??? I'll google it.
Morning sickness has a mind of it's own and every day is something new. I've already gained 5lbs in my butt. Joe's very happy about that. I kinda like it too. I'm going for the Kim Kardashian look. RRRAAAAR...

Sweet Dreams

2010-01-22T14:52:00.000-10:00

Joe has been working long hours recently... leaving the house before 5am and getting home around 8pm. Yesterday made it the second day where he hadn't seen Hudson because he is still asleep when daddy leaves and just went to bed when he gets home. I didn't think it bothered Joe because he is so busy and has so much on his plate, he knows he can rely on me to cover down for him. It's my job. Every night we say Hudsons prayers as we are putting him to bed. We always tell him good night and we love him, and to have sweet dreams. I did the normal bedtime routine last and got myself ready for bed. After Joe got home and said his 'hello' and 'i love you' he went to eat some dinner I had out for him and watch some tv, so I thought. I was in bed watching Project Runway and I glanced down at the baby monitor. It melted my heart to see Joe in there with his hand on Hudson telling him he loves him, saying his prayers, or saying sorry for being so busy, whatever it was it was the sweetest thing. I just sat at watched as he felt his head, rubbed his back, and tried to give him his binkie over and over (it was too sweet for me to tell him that Hudson is sick and wakes up with buggers covering his nostrals so he has to breathe through his mouth, and a binkie wont help), and tell our son good night and sweet dreams. I never said anything to him but it was too sweet to not share with others.

Wyland

2010-01-20T08:00:00.000-10:00

We were at the NEX (naval exchange, this huge shopping center in Hawaii) before Christmas and we noticed a crowd around Pictures Plus. We went over there and saw Wyland doing some of his art and signing autographs. For those who don't know... we love Wyland's art. My parents have a few pieces and we plan to get some in the future. He has very cool stuff.

http://www.wylandgalleries.com/

We got a picture with him so we thought that was pretty cool.

10 month update

2010-01-19T17:22:00.000-10:00

Hudson is the best! He is so flippin funny and cleaver, he gets that from his dad. He's taking 5-6 steps on his own and is ready to take off and run. At church daycare he is all over the place giving the nice old ladies some exercise. He weighs in at over 26lbs and no, he's not the chubby kid. In fact he is in the 100% for height and 95% for weight. So he's perfectly huge! He says mum-mum, mamam, baaa, baalbaal, and of course, dada. When he's mad at me he yells out DADA, DAAADAA! Haha. So I guess he's not a mama's boy. He flirts, a lot. When he's really serious about the girl he'll show her his teeth. Its so funny! I think he gets that from me? He wont hold his gosh darn bottle though!!!!! But he does sleep for about 11 hours at night so that makes up for it. He's our little man and he's hungry...

Morning Sickness, Cold Season, and Everything Else

2010-01-19T09:04:00.000-10:00

I HATE MORNING SICKNESS! It came on strong Sunday morning. At about 2am I had to make a run to the powder room and I had to run hunched over there and back to bed to avoid throwing up all over the bedroom floor. This time I've very sensitive to smells. Like food that has just been cooked, cut grass, my body spray... coffee. Boo! I'm hoping it wont last long. Oh, and those who don't know... We're pregnant! Yep, expecting another little Kobes. We've already started looking at names. For twin girls we like... Anyston (or Anistyn) and Addison! We still love Maddison and Payton for girls too. We don't have any boy name favorites yet.
We found, Gymboree, a fun little play center we joined yesterday. It's so much fun for Hudson. He interacts with kids his age, climbs on wedges, plays with the parachute and bubbles, and so much more. We first took him to the preview last friday, where I think he caught his cold. The doctor has been saying to limit his interaction w/other kids because they get sick so easily. Yea, well, we thought, and still think the social interaction is good for him. Sure enough, he got sick. He has a cold. Now I'm starting to sneeze and sniffle, so is daddy. I tried to get him into the doc today but w/government run health care, it isn't possible. I better not get started on that one. Just glad that everyone who voted that way will get to experience the same frustration and disgust as we feel every time we go to the doctor or TRY to make an appt.
Anyway, So Joe is changing out of command Feb 9th! THANK GOD!!!! This is one of the most stressful jobs in the military and Joe, of course, went above and beyond what is expected and sets the standards so it is time for him to take a break. I'm so proud of him! He is the best commander the military could ever ask for. He managed to bring all of his hundreds of soldiers home safely and earn their trust and respect along the way. Most commanders leave and the company is happy to see them go. Not in his case. It's going to be hard on his soldiers for they have become very attached to him. It will be hard on Joe too. But he came, accomplished his mission, and now its time for him to move on and move up. He has changed so many lives and restored the moral of Alpa Company. I'm so proud of you Joe! I love you with all my heart!
So with the change of command comes lots of preperation. Long days, and nights, lots of lost sleep and stress. These next couple weeks are going to be tough but we'll get through it. I'm so happy he will have a chance to just breath after he is out of command.
We'll I'm feeling queezy so I'm going to drink some peppermint tea and wipe little mans nose.

More Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday '09 pics

2010-01-12T11:59:00.000-10:00

We had a great Christmas and Joe said he had the best birthday he has ever had. His parents and Luke came to visit for the occation. We had a wonderful time. Yes, I did miss my parents so much, but I always do. But it was so nice to be able to get to know my inlaws better and spend some undivided time with one another. As my dad always said "a week in Hawaii is NOT enough!" I couldn't agree more. I wish they would have been able to stay longer. I thank everyone for all the help, the good times, great memories, and gifts. We were all three sad to see you go. Come back soon! Love you!

Hudson is reading Uncle Luke a story!

Paradise cove Luau

I think I said something like... don't pose, just be natural...

Grandma Susan and Hudson playing the day before they leave :(

Daddy's Birthday Cake! Happy birthday MY LOVE!!!

I made a treat just for my father-in-law (he thinks I'm nuts :) hehe)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!

New Custom Ping clubs!!!

HAHAHA! LUKE CRACKS ME UP!!!

Daddy is helping Hud open his gifts...

A Very Merry Christmas and a Happy Birthday 2009

2010-01-12T09:54:00.000-10:00

Laura: "You shouldn't have! You sneaky little one you..." Joe:"ha-ha-ha"

Yep, I'm really wearing raindeer ears!

Grandma Susan and Grandpa Ken enjoy Christmas morning

Rudolph the red nose raindeer! Yippie!

A half naked and very excited Hudson talks to Grandpa Johnson and Roy on Skype, while on Santa... oh I mean, daddy's lap, opening a gift.

Merry Christmas, just woke up, thanks for sticking a camera in my face Laura...

Hudson with his cute Santa hat, from Aunt Jan and Uncle Greg, playing with Grandma Susan on Christmas Eve.

Joe wants to get this guys swimsuit so he took photos to use as reference

Santa!

sailboats at the Harbor in Wakiki
I thought this was a cool photo op... I'm quite pleased with how it turned out, I must say

Uncle Luke with Little Man paaaased out!

Ok, this is so funny! Grandpa Ken is trying to put on Hudson's new shoes. Hudson doesn't wear shoes very often. Yea, it went smooth!

AAAH, quality time with Hudson...

Hudson thinks Grandma Susan is a riot when she does the horse ride

More Kona Pics

2010-01-03T15:12:00.000-10:00

Here we are at the Greenwell Farms Coffee Farm. Yea, we just about got kicked out of the tour b/c we were being so goofy. hehehe!

giving Joe the camera to take pictures... hummm

Grandpa Johnson and Hudson eating snacks

Kona 09

2010-01-03T07:24:00.000-10:00

I haven't posted pictures in FOREVER! Oopse! Here are a few pics from Kona09 (November). I loved posting them and thinking about the wonderful time we had. It was a blast!!!

Smiling Hud is too stinkin cute!

Sad day as my gramps, mom and dad go back to Phx

Hud was like "nooooo :( don't leave..."

Grandpa and Grandma Johnson getting Hud ready to swim at the Hilton pool

Hudson is truly happy! I love this picture!!!

Daddy comes to the rescue when Hud gets upset

Dinner at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Grandma and Grandpa Wienold playing with Hudson

Daddy and Grandpa Johnson swimming with Hudson.

They would put Hud on the side of the pool and say "jump to daddy" or "jump to Grandpa". At first he was scared to get in, then he went in, after a few times he figured out how to turn around and go in backwards. Everyone at the pool was watching this, clapping and laughing. It was so funny!

Grandpa and Grandma Wienold watch the action

Daddy and Hudson at the snorkel beach

Grandpa playing with the TANK

peak-a-boo

GOLF and batting cages! FUN FUN FUN

Thanksgiving 2009 in Kona, Hawaii

Ooooh the memories!

Home Sweet Home

2009-12-07T15:28:00.000-10:00

We are home, in Kapolei, and have been for a little over a week now. We are still trying to find furnature and "home" stuff, plus get ready for Christmas, Joe's birthday, and the New Year all at the same time. We are so busy! We've found a church we really like, so that's good. Hudson is pulling up on everything and so so so close to walking. He has so much energy and he loves to get into everything. He is about 25.5 lbs and a week shy of 9 months. Joe is busy at work and at home. I'm busy at home with Hud and all the other stuff we have going on. I miss my parents :( and Hud misses his gramps! Joe misses them too. Ok, Hud is calling me, so I'll try and update more soon.

11/20/09 SOSOSOSOSO Much fun!

2009-11-20T15:02:00.001-10:00

We're still on the Big Island with my Grandparents and my Parents. We are having such a great time! Hudson is learning so much every day and it's amazing to see him changing right before our eyes. I am so happy right now, being on vacation with my family, I don't want it to end. I'm going to be a wreck when they leave. But as for now we are having so so so so so much fun together. Joe picks on my mom, my mom picks on Joe, my dad and Joe pick on everyone together, grandpa picks on grandma, grandma doesn't know whats going on most of the time, but still sits there with a smile on her face. Everyone goes nuts over Hudson!!! He's turning into a ladies man all ready. Ha! Joe is finally relaxing a bit. Thank goodness. I LOVE MY HUSBAND, I LOVE MY SON, I LOVE MY PARENTS, I LOVE THE REST OF MY FAMILY!!! I'm so lucky. Just had to share that with everyone. Hud's almost done with his lunch so it's time to head to the pool (He checks out the ladies there too), then to town. Gotta go... :)

Big Island Time

2009-11-08T07:37:00.000-10:00

My parents (the Johnsons), Grandpa and Grandma Wienold flew to Oahu and met us so we could all fly to the big Island, Hawaii, for 3 weeks. Right now (11/8/09)we are staying in condos in the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Its BEAUTIFUL!!! Its breakfast time so I better go. I am so happy and Joe is finally getting the chance to relax. Thank you Aunt Jan and Uncle Greg for the card, toy and movie. We are thinking about you all as well. :) We miss all our family and friends!!! We're excited to have time w/the fam!

Happy 1st Halloween

2009-11-05T09:31:00.000-10:00

We had a pretty good Halloween. Hudson dressed up like a Woopie Cushion. We just though that was perfect!!! We made our toga costumes. We didn't carve pumpkins because they were not in very good shape. Haha. So we colored them. It was still fun! We planned on going to the base to take Hud trick-or-treating....

Daddy getting Hud ready to head to the base for trick-or-treating

The CUTEST WOOPIE CUSHION EVER

Are't we cute!

When we got to the base and took Hudson out of the car he cried and screamed for 2 hours!!! We tried everything! We even put him in the twins car and pushed him around... didn't work. We didn't end up trick-or-treating but it was still fun dressing up.

First Pumpkin Patch and Zoo Trip

2009-10-29T13:17:00.000-10:00

(I meant to post this on October 29th) Yesterday (October 28th) was such a great day!!! It started with our first trip to a pumpkin patch to pick out a pumpkin (pumpkins). The place is only open to the public the two weekends before Halloween and open for school tours mon-fri. We didn't make it there last weekend and I was pretty bummed out but tried not to make it a big deal. Joe made a call on Tuesday to the owner of the pumpkin patch property, had a good talk with him, and he invited our family to come on Wednesday. I wasn't expecting Joe to make the phone call and when he told me the good news I was like a little girl again!!! We showed up on Wednesday morning ready to get our pumpkin on. The owner explained that there weren't any Orange pumpkins left. They were wiped out the weekend before. Personally, I like to get the ugly pumpkins anyway because I feel bad for them. Haha. Plus, it's not the norm. We all know I'm not either. So we played around, found us 3 green pumpkins and had a BLAST!!!! The staff were friendly and helpfull. We were impressed!!

WE went from the pumpkin patch to the zoo. Joe's company had a family day at the zoo so we saw many of his soldiers there. Hudson slept the first part of it and when he woke he was more interested in the people than the animals. We had a great time at the zoo as well! Everyone there too, was super nice and helpful. We saw some turtles doing some 'inappropriate f0r family' behavior. We had to get pictures, of course. We had so so so much fun!!!
We then headed over to Diamondhead Theater to check out the costume store. We still haven't decided what Joe and I will be for Halloween. We didn't rent anything. I'm not a big 'rent' fan. Maybe because I am so messy or I like to always dress up so its fun to have tons of costumes of our own. But we did get some ideas.
It was a great day!!!

family time break from unpacking

2009-10-22T08:31:00.000-10:00

YEP, he is crawling allll over!!!

messy Hudson playing with daddy Weeee!!!!!!!

I love our little man!!!

watchin some football with daddy Daddy and Hud in our back yard. Its beautiful!!! Looking over Kapolei golf course we see ducks and cranes gathering around the lake at night and the sun sets are breathtaking! I love it here!!!

Hud with the Shade twins

2009-10-22T08:01:00.000-10:00

Little Buddiesthis was taken right before Hudson pulled erins hair

yep, he has a few girlfriends already

These were taken when I was staying with the Shades' waiting for Joe to get home, on September 28th. Hudson is playing with the twins, Zach and Erin. Their house always has something going on and at times I miss the "chaos", as Laura puts it. We had fun. Thank you Laura, Andre, Lauren, Zach, and Erin for the hospitality! I've always wanted twins. After living with 2 year old twins... hummm. Hehe.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY 10/21/09

2009-10-21T13:46:00.000-10:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR DADDY/GRANDPA, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!! Hope you and mommy have a great time @ the concert tonight. Wish we could be there!!! We miss you so much! Daddy, I hope you enjoy your gift: golf on the big island, drinks & pupu 's @ Tommy Bahama after! Yippie!

Hudson's first tooth (first two teeth)

2009-10-21T13:28:00.001-10:00

Look very hard and squint your eyes... there are two little teethies down there! YAY!!!

DADDY IS HOME!!! Mommy who??

2009-10-21T13:19:00.000-10:00

Haha! I'm joking about that. Hudson is in such awe with his daddy once he walks in the room Huds whole face lights up. That is the coolest thing! Here are some pictures of Joe showing Hudson the fishies at the Hale Koa on October 6th. I know, I know, the camera I used has had its last shot. But they are still cute pics. Of course, Joe and Huddy are in them!!!! Doesn't he look darn sexy in his uniform whooo hoooo!!!!

Hudsons first trip to the BEACH!!!!

2009-10-21T13:05:00.000-10:00

Hudson's first trip to the beach was a few before daddy got home. I needed to get a tan (didn't work) We went with Catherine and her two kids Hannah and Jack. Jack is 8 days older than Hudson and Hannah is about 15 months...? I think. Sorry Catherine. hehe. I didn't post these pics cause there was so much going and I was slacking. We had fun. Hud loves the ocean. He has the best time at the beach with his daddy!!! Those pics are on Joe's camera. Shoot, I have to get that from him.

Jack and Hannah playing

Ok, so our son is a total flirt already!!! Mostly with the older women. Like age 1 and up.... Here Hudson is flexing his muscles and winking at Hannah. At least thats what it looked like.

Hudsons thoughts...'this looks good to put in my mouth...'

'but i'll chew on this instead'

One of the lagoons at Ko Olina

Welcome Home Daddy/Hubby/Best Friend/Hero/MY LOOOOOVE!!!!!!

2009-10-13T07:50:00.000-10:00

JOE IS HOME!!!!

2009-10-04T17:05:00.000-10:00

WHOOOO HOOOO!!!!! Joe got home Friday afternoon and is safe, sound and enjoying time with us :). I have tons of pictures to post but I'm going to wait until he has to go back to work. I'm going to enjoy every second I have with him and Hud. Hud loves loves loves him!!! He watches and clings on his daddy. Oh yea, Hudson got his first tooth. That was a doosey! K, gotta go play. Yippie!!!!

Thank you Hudson!!!

2009-09-14T09:40:00.000-10:00

We got to Hawaii yesterday (Sunday, September 13th 2009) afternoon. I was ready for the worst airplane ride of my life. Turned out that Hudson was AMAZING and everyone was so helpful! It started off rough though. Going through security with a stroller, baby, huge car seat, computer, large purse, full diaper bag, blankets and stuffed animals everywhere, is a MESS!!! Everyone was looking at us like we were nuts. We were nuts! Luckily they let me mom help me to the gate. Thank goodness!!! Because, really, it couldn’t have been done. There is no way! It was the fastest goodbye ever and I bawled my eyes out once I sat down and was settled on the plane. The whole crew on Hawaiian Airlines were great! The man sitting on the other side of Hudson was helpful, everything on that flight was shockingly pleasant. Hudson slept the first hour to hour and a half. He woke up, ate, played, bounced on my lap, we walked around for a bit, everyone smiled at him and made him laugh, I changed him, took him back to our seat, gave him a little more to eat and he passed out again. He slept for two more hours. When he woke up he was just as happy as could be. At least 7 passengers, including the lady sitting in front of him, complimented me on how well he did and how good I was with him. I could NOT believe it. It just felt real good to have strangers make the effort to pay compliments. I was so proud of Hudson. I know he did it to make daddy proud! Well, after the flight we ran errands and didn’t get to bed until 10:30pm Hawaii time (1 am Phx time). So we are spent! Exhausted! Missing my parents so much I choke up about every 5 minutes. But we’re making it. Daddy will be home in a few weeks and make everything better.

I can't sleep...

2009-09-11T01:53:00.001-10:00

It's about 4am. We usually sleep until 5:30 but I could not sleep last night. A little annoying! Anyway, Hudson had his 6 month check early so we could get it out of the way before the big move. Dr. Padrez said he looks great! He's about 22lbs (in the 98th %tile) and a lot of inches (I'm so tired I can't remember and don't want to go look for it. But I know it puts him in the 95th %tile). He's a T-A-N-K!!! The doc was shocked he could already sit up and could hold his own weight when standing. I told ya, he's strong!!! He has so much energy too. He always wants to be moving or doing something. Now, he's all set and ready to have daddy home. Me too! We leave in 2 days. Crazy!!! Ok, I'm falling assssssssssssleepppppppp. zzzzzzzzzzzazhfiekohhnbbbbbbbbbbbb

September 4th 2009

2009-09-04T13:26:00.000-10:00

Hudson is now sitting up on his own. He has bonked his head a couple times and Joe said it's just starting. Hudson is so strong!!! He creaps to get toys and is soooo close to crawling I just keep thinking 'wait til daddy is home, wait til daddy is home'. He's crazy about standing up with me lightly holding onto his hands or waist. He grabs the table and can pretty much stand on is own. It's crazy how strong he is. I'm always getting comments like 'he's almost as big as you' and 'how are you going to handel him...' someone said 'his arms are bigger than mine' and 'he looks like he has little muscles'... Aaaah our little Tank! He loves the dogs and the water. He gets a kick out of his reflection in the mirror. What a riot!!! There is something new every day. Joe is going to be so excited when he sees his little man. Ooooh I can hardly wait!!! We go to Hawaii in 9 days and aside from traveling alone with a baby and leaving my parents, I'm pumped! There is so much to be done there so we will stay busy until daddy is home. I'm so excited soooooooo oh excited!!! WHOO HOO!!!!

We're going to miss you Grandpa and Grandma Johnson

2009-09-02T06:48:00.000-10:00

While we are both excited to head to Hawaii in a week and a half, and even more anxious to have Joe home (I can not tell you how ready I am to have my best friend, my love, my baby daddy *haha*, my husband and my hero home, can't explain feelings like that), it is going to be an emotional farewell. We will miss my parents so much!!! I wish I could take them with us. I am so lucky and blessed by God in so many ways. I'm very thankful for all my parents have done for me throughout this deployment. I can not express my endless gratitude. I have found myself bawling my eyes out watching them play with Hudson because it will break my heart to leave. I'm very close with my family and I'm lucky to have an amazing husband who understands this and has always done all he can to make it work. We will miss you so much mommy and daddy!!! I thank you THANK YOU for all you have done for me, the Hud, and Joe. We can't wait to spend Thanksgiving with you in Kona! We love you!!!! Here are some pictures of my parents and The Tank playing...

Huson LOVES jumping in the air!!!

This was one of his favorites! For some reason he likes to go upsidedown... he was laughing so hard! It was great!!!!

Sunday August 16th, 2009

2009-08-18T08:02:00.000-10:00

On Sunday we had the family over and, like I said in the post below, it was a blast! Hudson LOVED watching all his cousins running around and everyone had a great time! It was the first time Hudson has gone underwater in the swimming pool. My cousin Lindsey has been teaching swim lessons forever and she had to coach me through it. Hudson did so well!!! He didn't cough or anything. He was so chill about it. Me, however, I about cried when I took him under water. HAHA!

Ready To Go (mentally)

2009-08-17T13:59:00.000-10:00

I can NOT believe this deployment is thiiiiiis close to being over and I'm thiiiiiiis close to have my AMAZING husband home and safe. I keep getting asked by a bunch of ya'll when he will be home so I posted this for you! He'll be home, safe and sound around the first week in October. Until then, me and Hud move to Hawaii and get ready for his homecoming. There is so much to do from now to when he's home I will be swamped. But I'm ready!!! I am going to miss my family so much and so will Hudson... I can't even think about it. My parents have been a blessing this deployment and I am so thankful for them. I only wish they lived in Hawaii too. Then I think about my husband coming home and I don't think I have ever been this excited. I don't know how I got so lucky to have such an incredible husband. I look forward to everything... and I don't want to wait anymore! Others have asked when I'll be back. We will probably be back to visit my family in Feb or March. But there is never a bad time to vacation in Hawaii!

Time to gruuub!

2009-08-17T13:45:00.001-10:00

Hudson has been eating "solids" for a month now. I think he's pretty darn good at it. He has been introduced to rice, whole wheat whole grain, oatmeal, peas, carrots, green beans, squash, sweet potatoes, and apples. Hud is on a rolll! The family came over yesterday (Sunday Aug 16th, 2009) and we had a great time! Hudson has never seen so may kids! There were little ones every where and now I know for sure I WANT MORE (but not now!). In sweet time. We have our whole lives ahead of us. Anyway, I was feeding The Tank (the nickname Grandpa Johnson gave him) and some snapshots were taken. Here they are...(oooh and more swimming pictures to come, I promise. My cousin in-law took a bunch of everyone)

soooo much to do!!!

2009-08-15T08:50:00.000-10:00

So the movers come to get our things in 2 weeks. Am I packed... nope! Our stuff is all over the house, scattered in the garage along with my parents things, and i'm sure i have some in my parents storage somewhere! Joe told me the other day "Laura, I know how you are. Make sure you are packed. They only come once and we wont be sending 100 boxes of stuff you forgot to pack!" He knows me too well. So I'm super stressed and will probably lose my mind. The next couple weeks I'll be knee deep in packing, cleaning, finding, discovering, pulling my hair out-ing, things like that. Yea!!! It's good to know we'll be doing this (packing, stressing, moving) another 100x's while in the military. Can I get used to this? Stay tunned!

Turtle Hat

2009-07-30T12:37:00.000-10:00

We have been swiming a lot recently. Not for long, just about 10-15 minutes in the morning. I don't want Hudson to get too hot!!! The other day I was getting him all sunscreaned up and he fell asleep on his changing table with his hat covering half his face. He looked too cute and I had to get some pictures.

Hudson and Grandpa Johnson

2009-07-30T12:27:00.000-10:00

My dad and Hudson are so funny together!!! They laugh at each other, make noises, and the other day I went to Starbucks, came home and found them looking at each other in the bathroom mirror. I love these pics because Hudson looks like a little man already! :) He loves his gramps!

July 28th, 2009

2009-07-28T10:24:00.000-10:00

I know, I know, I’m a slacking a bit on timely postings… sorry J! It really is a good thing… it means the activity and excitement has increased so much for us. With Joe, AKA Daddy, coming home in less than 2 ½ months (whoo hoo) we have tons to take care of. Right now we are organizing, cleaning, packing, trying to get back in shape, and overall preparing for the big day. We ship our things at the end of August, head to Hawaii mid September, and anxiously await the homecoming in early October. Oh my goodness, so much to do, so much to do…
Anyway, Hudson had his 4 month well check July 14th and weighed in at a whopping 18lbs 3oz, putting him in the 95%tile. He is now being introduced to solids… oh the fun of that!!! Haha. He doesn’t like Oatmeal or Multi Grain Cereal but when it was time to introduce Green Beans (yesterday) he had no complaints. Joe was on the phone with me when Hud ate so much hence I think he was just showing off for daddy. He’s turning from his back to his belly to his back… he is all over his crib! He scoots on his belly to reach a toy and gets so frustrated he can’t get there… he laughs all the time… he loves the water, splashing in the pool and kicking all the water out of the tub, just having a good old time. He is turning into a little man. We love him more than anything!!! Here are pictures I took a week ago. Many are blurry cause I’m still trying to figure out the camera and I don’t have time or patience to edit them.

Hudson's pics 4th of July 2009

2009-07-06T09:33:00.000-10:00

This 4th of July was pretty good. The best part of it is knowing next year, with Joe home and safe, and actually having our family together, it will be the best. I have never missed Joe more, in fact it's pretty much killin' me right now. The good news... he'll be home soon, he's also missing us more than ever, and he's prepairing to take his MCAT's next year so he will be done with the every other year deployments. I am already packing!!! Wow, we ship our things next month. Part of me doesn't want Hud to grow or change any more until his daddy is here but we know that wont happen. Hud is already 17-18lbs, in 9 month clothes and he isn't even 4 months yet!!! He is so aware of everything and I can already tell he got his daddys brains (thank goodness!).

June 30th, 2009

2009-06-30T13:21:00.000-10:00

Hudson is now 3 1/2 months old and changing so much. About a week ago I started to notice he always had his fingers in his mouth. As I watched him I saw he was playing with his tongue and gums. Soon he started shoving his whole hand in his mouth!! Goofy. I just though he had discovered his mouth. His drooling has increased and he started getting a small rash on his chin because of all the drool. Then he started chewing on his thumb and pointer finger. I called the doctor today to see if he was teething and it looks like our little man IS teething. Usually this happens around 6 months. HE IS ONLY 3 1/2 months, WHAT!!! So I'm trying to keep him comfortable but he doesn't have the whole grabbing things to put them in his mouth concept down just yet, so cold teething toys aren't helping.
Other than that Hudson is doing great!!! He has started turning over in his crib. The constant worry about SIDS sent me running to call the dr right away. They made me feel a little better but I still wake up every hour to check if he has turned on his belly.
He discovered his lips so now he makes bubbles, sounds, and sometimes spits all over mommy.
He is reaching for his toys and wants to see everything. Joe called on Skype the other day and we watched Hudson babble to himself for about 30 minutes. That was fun. Joe and Hudson are going to have so much fun together. I'm so pumped!!!! The next couple months will be filled with packing and prepairing to move.
Here are some pics of The Hud playing in his bouncer.

Hudson June 18th, 2009

2009-06-18T10:00:00.000-10:00

Hudson is 3 months old as of a few days ago. Its AMAZING how much he changes every day. I am happy I get to stay home and be here with him right now. I only wish Joe were here to see his little man grow. He will be home soon. Just in time for all the fun stuff.

Hudson gets rice cereal in his bottles to thicken the formula because of his reflux. I thought since he already eats it I might as well see what happens when I try and feed him with a spoon. So, yesterday I tried to give him rice cereal formula with a spoon. HAHAHA! That was fun. He had a good ol time for about 5 minutes then got frustrated. We stopped and he got his bottle. My parents said he did better than I did. Maybe he is 'advanced' (daddy says he's advanced). I'll take some pictures next time we try the spoon feeding.

Lindsey posted a comment on the 'jumperoo' post that her son Trevor used to fall asleep in his jumperoo. I didn't think Hudson would feel comfortable enough to do that. Well I put him in it this morning and he was having the best time ever. He was making noises I had never heard before. All of a sudden... he wore himself out!!! Haha! How funny. He woke up startled and crying because he didn't know where he was. At least I think thats why.

Joe, aka 'Daddy', will be home in about 3 1/2 months! OH MY GOODNESS WE ARE TOOOOO EXCITED!!!! Well, my mom is trying so hard to get Hudson to say 'Grandma' before he leaves. Just to pick on Joe. I don't have the heart to tell her he is probably too young. These pics are of my mom working to get him to "say grandma".

These are funny. I was trying to take some pics of him with his teddy while he was sitting up. He was so busy babbeling his concentration for sitting up was gone. He started sitting straight up and ended on top of teddy. He looked at me like 'whad i do?'

Army Wives Season 3

2009-06-12T06:38:00.001-10:00

You know it!!! Only my favorite show ever! Army wives is back for another great season Sundays at 7pm (phoenix time) on Lifetime.

http://www.mylifetime.com/on-tv/shows/army-wives

Jumperoo

2009-06-11T08:52:00.000-10:00

Hudson loves his jumperoo!!! Here are some pics of the little man jumpin' away!!!

I love this one... he might just be laughing out loud

1 year today!!!

2009-05-20T18:06:00.000-10:00

We have been married for 1 year today!!! Whoo hoo! We got married May 20th, 2008 in Oahu, Hawaii. We later had the most amazing wedding ever on September 13th, 2008. This is funny to run down the dates...
Engaged April 2008
Married May 2008
Pregnant June 2008
Wedding of our dreams September 2008
I love you Joe!!! More than anything in the world. You are my best friend and the love of my life. I thank God for you and Hudson every day! Thank you for all you do for me. I'm proud of you handsome and I'm soooooo excited for October ;). xoxoxo

2 months old

2009-05-18T12:41:00.000-10:00

Hudson has been turning over and lifting his head like a trooper!!! Its AMAZING to see him learn, grow, get stronger, and change every day. He is such a blessing from God! At his 2 month appt he weighed in at a whopping 12lbs (55%tile) and 23 3/4 inches (75%tile)... our little man is growing so much!!!

Where is the gun show Hudson?Look at that smirk!

first time in the pool

2009-05-18T12:29:00.001-10:00

On Mothers day I took Hudson in the pool for the first time. He loved it!!! I was very nervous at first so I held him close to my body but then I relaxed and let him enjoy the water. He just layed there with his head on my chest with his body floating with a big old smile on his face. Too dang cute!!!

Happy Mothers Day 2009

2009-05-10T06:30:00.001-10:00

Grandpa Johnson rocking the little man!

Happy Birthday Aaron!!!

The family

Hudson's cousins Ashton and Josh playing around the house

Great Grandma Wienold feeding the little man

Grandma Johnson making Hudson feel better

Mothers Day was at our house again this year. My dad was excited to show off the new house but he had to work all day Saturday and couldn't clean and sort through things. So my mom worked her rear end off all day Satuday (from 8am until about midnight)cleaning the garage and finding the tables that were burried under all the boxes. Hudson got me a charm from Tiffany & Co. that says "Mom" on one side and had "first mothers day" engraved on the outside. I LOVE IT!!!! Thank you Hudson (and Joe:) )

WHAT IS THAT FACE!?!?

2009-04-27T11:37:00.001-10:00

Camo Blanket

2009-04-27T11:29:00.000-10:00

I took some pictures of Hudson playing on the camo blanket cousin Marissa made for him. Its so cool!!! She made it out of camo yarn... who knew yarn came in camo?

Grandma and Hudson

2009-04-21T10:25:00.000-10:00

About a week ago Grandma was feeding Hudson and he ended up in this adorable pose. He was just chillin' on Grandma!!! Joe, our son is freaking adorable!!!!

April 21st

2009-04-21T09:55:00.000-10:00

Hudson went to the doctor yesterday because he's been having really loose poopies. Doc told me he has a stomach bug and to watch the number of poopies and make sure he doesn't develop a fever etc. His has a good weight gain though... THANK GOODNESS!!! He's up to 9lbs 11oz. Doc also said "He's a talker"; because he was coo'ing throughout the appointment. While I was changing him today he was just coo'ing up a storm and having a good time. I had to take pictures to send to daddy of him looking so darn cute. Isn't he too funny!!! He may have a bug but he doesn't let that keep him down.

Birthday

2009-04-19T06:35:00.000-10:00

Thank you to everyone who called and wished me a happy birthday and thanks to those who took me out to dinner and tried very hard to make me enjoy myself. I just couldn't be away from the little man... it gave me anxiety. A very very big thank you to my amazing and perfect husband who send me flowers on friday and set up a spa day for satuday at the biltmore. I'm a very lucky person to have you Joe!!! I needed it. Thanks again to everyone for making my birthday as good as it could be. Next year will be so much better; I look forward to spending next birthday with you Joe! I love you so very much and me and little man miss you like crazy!

Easter

2009-04-15T13:22:00.001-10:00

Easter was a pretty good day. We went out to my Aunt Jan and Uncle Greg's house and it was so nice to see my family!!! Hudson got some great gifts from Aunt Betty and Uncle Greg which included a very cool frame that says 'Hudson' and a toy w/book from Aunt Jan and Uncle Greg. It was, however, a bittersweet holiday with Joe deployed. We miss him so much!!! Hudson had a visit from the Easter bunny who left a spiddy easter basket. He has already finished allll of the candy. With all the help from mommy :). Here are a few pics of Hudson finding his first egg, in his outfit Grandma got him, with uncle Ken, with Grandpa, and some other pics.

To Lindsey:

2009-04-01T18:20:00.000-10:00

I don't want to put too much information out there because of the respect of her privacy but today was a horrible day for one of my best friends. I wish there were something I could do to make things easier and lift spirits but I know nothing anyone says or does will take the hurt away or fill the void in your life. I can not even begin to understand the feelings you are going through. So, Lindsey, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Please let me know if I can do anything. I'm here for you when you need me. I'll be checking in on you.

Our Little Man

2009-04-01T16:18:00.000-10:00

I LOVE these pictures!!! Katie Rounds has a great eye! She came over yesterday (3/31/09) to take photos of our little man. They turned out GREAT!!!! They are both funny, sweet, and too adorable for words. His personality exactly!!! Thank you Katie and I hope everyone enjoys the photos. We do!!!

Hudson and Daddy

2009-03-26T13:25:00.000-10:00

Here are a couple pics of Hudson and daddy before he went back to Iraq, and one pic of Hudson squirming on his changing table. Aren't they so dang cute!!! We miss you daddy, so much it hurts!!!

Sad Day

2009-03-23T09:26:00.000-10:00

I took Joe to the airport this morning so he can go finish his deployment. I'm sick to my tummy and want nothing more than for me and Hudson to be in his arms again. He will be home again in October and we will have our family back. Yes, I am going to go back into "my hole", its what I do. But, I'll be around... taking care of my little man and getting back into tip top super fit shape. About 7 months until I have to fit into those bikini's again.
I love you Joe, more than you know!! Thank you for being here for the birth of your son. We will be here, waiting for you. I told you 4 years ago, I'll always wait for you!!! Please be careful... we need you!!! You are ALWAYS on my mind and in my prayers. You are my best friend, the love of my life, and my hero. I'm so very lucky and bessed by God to have you in my life. We miss you too much already daddy. Think about us. xoxoxo muah xoxoxo

and more photos

2009-03-21T09:47:00.000-10:00

I don't have patience to rotate the picture

Mommy, Hudson, and Daddy

Little man crying

We went to Los Compadres on Thursday like my family does EVERY WEEK (grandma and grandpa don't like change). These are some pics of our little family and our new BEAUTIFUL car!!!! I don't miss the Volvo anymore!!!!

More Pictures

2009-03-18T11:35:00.000-10:00

St. Patrick's Day Green

HUDSON DOMINIC KOBES

2009-03-16T11:37:00.000-10:00

Hudson Dominic Kobes was born on Saturday, March 14th at 4:04 am. He was 8lbs 2oz and 21 inches. He is PERFECT!!!! Here are some pictures of our days at the hospital and pics of our little man!!!

Car Sold

2009-03-13T08:18:00.000-10:00

We watched our beautiful car drive away today as a very nice couple from Cali. flew to pick her up. I never thought I would be this upset about the car but, well, it happens. Its a good thing we sold it... as Joe says, God was looking out for us, but its still sad. This is the last time I'll talk about it. Anyway, we are now shopping for a more "family friendly" and less expensive car since we are preparing for Joe to go to medical school. So here's to my beautiful cars exit and the start of our new life as a family with new priorities and goals. CHEERS!!!

daddy home for the birth

2009-03-10T05:23:00.001-10:00

On Saturday, March 7th, I was in bed at 11am-ish (I'm always in bed that late) when I heard the dog barking at someone outside. I got up a little annoyed and went toward the door. I looked and saw part of a uniform... to my complete surprise it was JOE!!!! My little sneak made me believe he was still in Iraq and wouldn't be here for a few days. Now he is here and we are getting ready for the birth of our first child. WOW!!! I never thought this day would come. HAHA!!!! I couldn't be happier. Hudson has decided to be stubborn (like his daddy) and hasn't made any additional attempts to exit his current home. As for now, we wait, prepair, and enjoy the time together. I THANK GOD JOE IS HERE!!!!

March 4th Update

2009-03-04T15:43:00.000-10:00

So I went to the doctor again today and looks like we are going for the 14th of March and no longer the 19th. I'm 3cm dilated and 80% effaced (sorry if that makes some of you nauseous, get over it :) ) and dr said I just need to take it easy until Joe gets here so he wont miss the birth. Emotions are running high and anxiety has set in! My mom and I had a little scare today but it involves blood and guts so I wont go into it. But, I called the doctor right away and everything is "normal". Did I mention how sick I am of the word "normal", and at the same time very happy everything is "normal". Fingers crossed that little Hudson holds on until daddy is home and here's to a March 14th birthday...

NAME GAME: These are the middle names Joe and I like for Hudson. We both have our favorite but we aren't telling just yet...

Victor
Henry
Dominic
Drew
Conor
Colton

Baby Hudson Update

2009-02-28T18:33:00.000-10:00

I have neglected my phone and haven't been "around" all that much so I decided to post a little update on the pregnancy. I've had weekly dr appts for the past couple weeks and as of last Tuesday I'm dilated 2.5cm. Doctor said if I do not go into labor by March 19th then I will be induced on the 19th. She seems to think I will go into labor well before the 19th. Her exact words "oh yeah, his head is VERY low, wow" and "any day now". So we will see how much longer our little man wants to hold on. Joe should get into town somewhere between the 8th and 15th of March. He will have 15 days of leave to spend with us. I will treasure every day of it!!! God I miss him! My parents are getting excited to be grandparents and I'm more ready than ever to meet my little man. Here is a pic of mom and me. I'm 37 weeks pregnant and HUGE!!!!!!

Baby Shower Thanks

2009-02-26T14:41:00.000-10:00

I wanted to send out a thank you to my mom, my cousin Lindsey, and Lindsey Tieman for making time to plan showers for our Hudson. Lindsey T had the girls get together for a lunch on Feb 7th. It was so nice for us all to get together. We don't do it enough. My mom and cousin planed a family/friends shower. It was held last Sunday, Feb 22nd. Thank you all who came. Hudson says thanks too!!!

We neglected to take pics at the friends shower but I did take some at the family shower. I have to post some of the cutest cake in the WORLD!!!! Its a turtle cake, made with marble cake, whip frosting, and raspberry filling. YUMMY!
Thank you everyone for the great gifts.

Car Info

2009-01-26T15:18:00.000-10:00

Joe and I decided we need to sell our fabulous car that we love so dearly. With Joe being such a big guy and having a family of three (and someday four) we need to get a bigger car. We listed our beauty on Auto Trader http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=p&car_id=257308922&dealer_id=63725759&car_year=2008&rdm=1233018432847&model=C70&rnc_prepopulate=&start_year=2008&search_type=used&distance=25&make=VOLVO&address=85021&end_year=2008&cardist=0&standard=false

Its a 2008 Volvo C70 hardtop convertible. Its a vanilla gold color with light interior. BEAUTIFUL!!! Its fully loaded and has less than 3,500 miles on it. Hopefully it will make someone very happy (like it made me and anyone who rode topless with me). Check it out and pass it on. Our baby is coming quick...

New Camera

2009-01-07T18:26:00.000-10:00

So for Christmas Joe and I decided, and agreed, that we would not be getting eachother gifts. The only things we could get were things for the baby. Well my sneaky (yet amazing) husband got us a new camera (Canon Rebel EOS XTi) and said "we will use it to take pictures of the baby". Little butthead. But I'm so thankful for our amazing camera!!! I just have to get Katie Rounds (who helped Joe pick the camera to get) to teach me everything she knows about cameras. Here are a few pictures I took with our new toy.

Christmas 2008

2009-01-01T17:41:00.000-10:00

This year was a nice Christmas. I missed Joe so much it hurt. But I was just feeling lucky to have such a great family to spend it with. Christmas Eve we went to Grandma Laura's house to open gifts and to share the time with the fam. It was great to see everyone! Its rare when we can all get together like that. Hopefully next year Joe, Hudson and I will be there. Then it will really feel right. Of course, then I would like to spend time with the inlaws too. Maybe they will all just have to fly back down to phx :) Just kidding. Christmas day we had breakfast and opened presents at home. Joe called and that was the best Christmas present. Christmas is also Joe's birthday so I told him he had to call. He gave most of his soldiers the day off to relax. Joe said he was able to relax a bit however I know he was still running around checking on all of them. He never stops! Hopefully he will send me pics soon so I can post them on the blog.

Grandma and Grandpa wait for their goodies

Dad, Uncle Greg (Evans), Uncle Greg (Johnson), Uncle Jeff, Adam and Aaron watch the kids open their gifts

Look at that belly!!! As I'm 1 week into my 7th month

Mom, Uncle George, and Grandpa Jean must be getting into trouble!!

Lindsey, Aaron, and Ashton look as cute as ever

Aaron and Adam open up their Guitar Hero game, hats, and shirts

Me and Lindsey just couldn't take a picture we were happy with... but here we are

Our Orbit Baby System

2008-12-03T12:54:00.000-10:00

Joe and I finally found a stroller, car seat, and bassinet cradle that we LOVE!!! We got the Orbit Baby infant system and the Orbit Bassinet cradle last Sunday. I have already played with it am so excited to use it. But as for now its tucked away until our baby boy comes. To check it out go to http://www.orbitbaby.com/

Happy Thanksgiving '08

2008-11-30T18:22:00.000-10:00

We had a nice and tasty Thanksgiving this year. It was lonely for me because I miss my husband so much but I'm lucky to have my family here for me. We had Thanksgiving lunch/dinner at my parents house at 2pm and we ate until about 4. I continued to eat until I passed out from a turkey coma. That coma lasted two days. We had a good 'ol time! I am thankful for my AMAZING husband who I am so proud of and very lucky to be married to, my wonderful parents, my baby boy who is growing and growing, and my great family. I am also thankful for my friends who I have not been able to spend much time with due to my crazy deployment and pregnancy emotions. Thank you girls for hangin' in there. Oh, and my puppies too!!
Grandma and Grandpa pose for a pic with me. See how Ella is gaining sympathy weight. Thats my girl!

Grandma Laura and me

Mom was cooking up a storm and it was sooo good!

Cousin Lindsey with Ashton

Me and Ashton playing on the stairs! Whoo hoo!

My 24 weeks end baby bump

Dad and Uncle George cutting the turkey!

Mom, Dad and Me stop and smile after a looong day of cooking and eating.

In my 6th month

2008-11-16T14:11:00.000-10:00

I am now 23 weeks... only 17 weeks until Hudson Kobes joins our family!!!

I have had a lot of people asking how I am doing. I'm well and hanging in there. The pregnancy is going well and the deployment is going slow. I'm keeping my spirits up with exercise, good friends and family, and of course my wonderful husband keeping in touch.

Joe is well. He is keeping very busy and has his hands full. He sends his hello's.

2008-10-29T08:30:00.000-10:00

Boy oh boy, Its a BOY!!!

On October 23rd we found out our little one is for sure a BOY!!! We are very excited to have our first born be a mini-Joe. As far as names go... We Love HUDSON and we like PRESTON.

Due date is set for March 20th although this past ultrasound said its March 18th.

Joe's Deployment

2008-10-14T09:39:00.000-10:00

Joe left for his deployment yesterday. We ask for your continued thoughts and prayers throughout the year long tour in Iraq. I have his address so just let me know if you would like to send care packages or letters. He will be home in March (hopefully) for the birth of our first born. I am lucky to have fabulous parents, in laws and friends who have shown their support and concern for my amazing husband and myself. Thank you guys. We love you. 5 months until I see my handsome husband, but who's counting... :)

Wedding Pictures On-Line

2008-10-14T09:30:00.000-10:00

YEAH!!! The photos are now online. There are about 20 that are still being added but most of them are there. There are a ton (900) pictures and they tell the story of our wedding. You can find them at

1.) go to http://www.weddingprints.com

2.) type in "Laura" and hit search

3.) look for "Laura & Joe Wedding" event date "September 13th 2008" and hit select

4.) enter the password only "love" (do not enter an email address, just the password)

5.) say oooh and aaah as you look through our photos. :) enjoy! we did

Wedding Pictures

2008-10-06T12:12:00.000-10:00

We got 5 pictures back from the photographer early because he wanted Joe to see at least a few before he leaves. These are the 5...