family time

Hello world

2010-10-31T13:35:00.000-07:00

My latest project was this fun spider Halloween skirt. My best buddy Amber gave me the fun flowy idea. Our sunbeams loved it today at Church.

Now you see me...

Now you don't. heheheh

Hayden's BIG smile.

My boys and there spiky hair. Hayden's hair was long enough for a pony tail in back.

Race car driver's Hayden and Chloe.

The bear cubs...Hayden and Alex. They nap together, eat together and even wrestle like cubs. Yes, he is the ladies man already.

He has learned how to put pants on and LOVES playing with belts... so I rolled up Bret's pant legs and used his belt as suspenders. You can see how much he liked his new outfit. This was post mommy hair cut. He actually did pretty good till the hair started collecting on his wet body in the bath tub. That is when he started freaking out not knowing what it all was. I cut between 2-4in of hair off his head!!

Hayden what does a cow say "Mooo".

The farmer and his little calf.

The farmer and Daisy Duke. You can kind of see how full Bret's beard was. He was so happy to shave it off yesterday after only 2 weeks of growth.

Picture update

2010-09-19T19:09:00.000-07:00

Bath time, play time!

For our 3rd anniversary we played at Michigan Adventure!

Mommies little cuddle bug :)

We love to play outside and enjoy nice Michigan days in the sun.

This was a fun morning of disc golf with lots of friends. Hayden had lots of fun playing with Jeremy and Amy Strabbing, Tyler Neil and mommy and daddy.

Learning all the right moves from daddy.

It was so great to watch him throw and chase the discs.

The boys now have matching Lion's caps. Bret had to get them so we could go to our first pro football game. It was the last preseason game. We all had a great time and the best part is the Lion's actually own!!!

Summer fun

2010-08-17T09:29:00.001-07:00

We've been busy this summer!!! We flew out to Washington in June to visit family and be in Bret's Sister's wedding. I was able to be a bridesmaid and made my dress and one more also. Bret talked me into making matching Hawaiian shirts for him and Hayden. We were the best dressed if I say so myself:). During our 2 week trip we visited Washington, Organ, Utah and Idaho. We really enjoyed staying with Grandma and Grandpa Anderson. Hayden even got a little time alone with them while Bret and I took a trip to Lagoon. It's a really fun amusement park near Salt Lake City Utah. Hayden is a great traveler and loved getting to know his new uncle Ross. We love visiting family and friends!!!
Bret started back to school and work the day after we got home. While we were gone he got transferred to a different Radio Shack. He likes his coworkers and manager and because of school he has been getting less hours which means less income. We take turns telling each other "it will be ok honey we pay our tithing so the Lord will provide". We are so grateful for all HE does for us!!!

Hayden keeps growing. The other morning I got him out of bed then went to the bathroom. Usually, I close the upstairs gate but I didn't because he followed me into the potty and I figured he would stay upstairs with me. He is really good at going up and down on his belly so when I heard movement on the stairs I didn't think much of it. I washed my hands and rounded the corner to find him standing up holding the railing and stepping down to the 5th stair from the top!! My heart stopped!!! I ran down to him to get after him. He just smiled like a big boy and reached for my hand we walked the rest of the stairs together. He is growing up too fast!!!
We just transferred from the Kalamazoo University Branch to Kalamazoo 2 ward because Hayden is now old enough to go to nursery. HE LOVES IT!!! He is really nice during Sacrament meeting then when it's over we ask "Do you want to go to class?" This last week he pushed Bret out of the way and almost ran to his class room.
Our 3rd wedding anniversary is the 25th of this month. Hayden will get to stay a couple of days with Grandma and Grandpa Gutgsell while Bret and I travel with the Neils to Ceder Point! Bret has never been and when I told him that was my plan he had that kid in a candy store look :) We all hope the weather is nice and the lines are not too long. Ohio here we come. Hayden better be nice to Grandma and Grandpa.

Monkey for a son

2010-06-09T18:27:00.000-07:00

Tonight I had Hayden while Kari was off visiting teaching. When ever we put Hayden down to bed, we always read him a book or two before laying him down. He likes to climb up in his rocking chair and sit in it by himself while you read the book to him, and then he gets down and runs around his room too. I always try to beat him to the rocking chair so that I can sit in it to read his book and then he plays the up down game with me while I am reading his book. So tonight he beat me to the rocking chair and I decided to sit on the floor with my back leaning up against his crib. We always leave the bar down to his crib when we get him out of it and put it up after we lay him down for bed.
I was reading his book and Hayden decided to come sit on my lap, then after about 3 seconds of that he decided that he would turn around and give me a hug. Doing so he was facing his crib next thing I know he was climbing up me by stepping on my stomach to my chest and then to my shoulder. By this point he was high enough to put one leg over the bar and straddle it then continued on to the other side and kind of fell into his crib. After laying there for about 5 seconds in his crib he wanted back out but could not do so by himself. I was able to lift him out with out getting up and after I set him back on the floor he was back on me trying to climb up again. This time I stopped him because I was one page away from finishing the book, and wanted him to start settling down so that when the next time he did get in his crib it would be to go to bed.

2010-05-27T06:29:00.000-07:00

Hayden loves Bret's cowboy hat!

This is my parents big oak tree in there back yard. Great for pictures.

Quite the little gentleman and so smart!

Hayden hanging out with Grandma VanZanten.

Cute cousins!!! Hayden wanted to hold Hannah so bad.

We love visiting Grandma Gutgsell's house! The crew included Madison, Me, Hayden, Sophia, Molly, Yasmin, Grandma and Cade.

My parents just got a new puppy named Molly. Hayden's best buddy.

Hayden loves Daddy and Puppy time!!!

We want a puppy.

Hayden and Grandpa Gutgsell. Best buddies!!!

Hayden is entertaining Mommy with his favorite instrument.

Perfect summer treat!!!

Buddies forever!!! Kari and Bret, Tyler and Desiree, Annalaura and Chris.

Sewing Project

2010-04-09T11:03:00.000-07:00

My favorite Christmas present from Bret!!!

Bret's sister Kari is getting married on June 19th this summer!!! About a month ago she asked our other sister in-law and I to be 2 of her 3 bridesmaids! As everyone knows Bridesmaid dresses are quit pricey and to find a modest one is even more difficult and more expensive. So a modest professional bridesmaid dress was between $120 -$200 and could take up to 10 weeks to get it. Bret got me a sewing machine for Christmas and I have really been itching to make something but have not had time, energy or a real reason until now!!! I offered to find matching fabric and make our 2 dresses. I made my Temple dress about 7 years ago and a few skirts, pj pants and things since. I knew it would be fun but I forgot how quick and easy it is. I found the fabric which is really close to the same color and each dress only required a couple yards of fabric. The grand total for both of our dresses including fabric, pattern, thread, zippers and lining was $50.04 and it is taking me less than a week to complete the first one.
I got the first dress cut out and the bodice all put together in a day and a half. A few days later (when Bret was free again to occupy Hayden) I sewed the skirt together then onto the bodice and finally put in the zipper. I only need to finish the bottom hem which may take 5 minutes:)
My only concern was if I could get Jackie's dress done and mailed out to her in time for her to fit it for alterations and send it back to me to make it fit properly. All my worries were wiped away when I got her measurements. We are the same height and the same measurements in the fitted areas!!!
Thanks Kari and Jackie for giving me an excuse to use my sewing machine.
It's really nice to stand back and see what one can accomplish with love and support. Bret is so sweet watching me work and helping me where he can.

This is the pattern and what it is supposed to look like.

Steps 1-6 the bodice and the most difficult sections.

Second to last step or step #13 the zipper. Thanks to my moms wisdom not very difficult when you use tape.

Done except the bottom hem :)

Boy's and Mud

2010-03-02T18:38:00.000-08:00

It has been so beautiful and warm (Ok barely in the 40's) for the last couple days that I haven't been able to resist taking Hayden out for his first walks of the year. He is such a big boy walking all by himself. Yesterday it was just him, Chloe and I and he held my finger so tight. It was great to watch him experience it all for the first time!!! Precious moments.
Today was another precious day. This week is Bret's Spring Break from Western and so we are enjoying many family hours together. Today Daddy led our family walk and he said no holding hands were necessary which means Hayden actually led the walk anywhere he wanted. We were just rounding our last corner a few doors from home when I saw a large mud puddle partly covering the sidewalk. Hayden was just far enough ahead of us that there was nothing we could do but watch him trip into the mud hands and face first.

Hayden had such a big day everything from mud puddles followed by wet splashy baths to shopping with Mommy and Daddy. We love family days!!!

Winter adventures!

2010-02-08T15:11:00.000-08:00

Our best friends are Desiree and Tyler Neil. A couple weekends ago we went up north with them to visit with Desiree's family and their snowmobile's. Here is Hayden's 1st experience looking down from a second floor balcony. Just before we got the video camera he very slowly and cautiously approached the railing and tentatively looked over to find daddy waving hello. It was so cute to see him instinctively know that he was up high and needed to be careful. I made Bret get the camera and the video is what followed. The Woodman's are fully gutting and rebuilding the house while living in it so the ladder is the only access to the 2nd floor. Hayden had never seen a ladder before but just by watching all of us use it he was a pro by the end of our visit.
One evening half of us were relaxing in the living room while the other half were makeing dinner in the kitchen. I thought Hayden was in the kitchen with Desiree because I hadn't seen him for a little while so I went to check... He was not there! The search was on, I followed his trail of dropped toys and called his name to find him at the TOP of the ladder with the trap door closed!!! As I looked up at him in amazement and wonder, just stuck on the top ladder rung with no way down he looked back at me with those big eye saying "look what I can do!" I pulled him down and needles to say we put the ladder up when an adult was not using it.

Here is our wild child all ready for his first snowmobile ride! We love snow fun!

Hayden Walking for Grandma Colleen :)

2010-01-31T15:48:00.000-08:00

My mom asked us to post videos of Hayden walking, so we found all that we could and put them together.

Hayden started walking on his own on Thanksgiving 2009 with just a couple of steps. This first video is on the 29th of November and the 5th of December.

These clips are on the day that we celebrated Hayden's birthday. These are more of him playing with his new toys then walking. Grandma and Grandpa Anderson were watching on the web cam from Twin Falls, Idaho.

This first clip is on Christmas day, and the other ones were just a few days ago. Uncle Darren dressed Hayden in the pink duck tape and bow which came from the presents we gave him for Christmas to go along with the other tools he received.

The first part of this video is dedicated to Brady Beck. Hope you enjoy!!!

2010-01-25T09:54:00.000-08:00

Kari, Hayden, and I have just moved into a home. It is a town home with a lot more space, for all of Hayden's stuff that his grandparents keep giving him and cheaper rent. Here is some pictures of us moving and video of our new place with Hayden's favorite part of the house.

If there is one thing that I hate the most about moving people it is when they don't have anything packed so you have to not only move them but also pack up all of there stuff for them.

Kari and I started to pack our stuff up about 2 weeks before we were going to move and had no other place to put the boxes so we just started to stack them in the living room. This is the night before we started to moved, and their were a few boxes that we still had to pack that we still needed to use the next morning. Neither of us know how all of this fitted in our old apartment.

Hayden loved to get into the pots and pan cupboard, which was this one. He found the cupboard about 2 weeks before we were going to move so I never bothered to put safety locks on since we were leaving soon. As you can see he couldn't find any of his pots to play with.

I never did get around of getting a video of our old apartment, so here is the layout in case you were wondering what our place looked like.
Two-bedroom Apartment

879-927 square feet
Gas for heating , cooking & hot water included
Washer and dryer
Dishwasher
Central air conditioning
Walk-in closet
Private storage

This is our new place that we love!!! The one thing that I forgot to show in the video is our front door faces an elementary schools playground. Their is a fence in between, but their is a gate that I have seen from here to there but I have not gone over to see if their is a lock on it.

All utilities are the same as our old apartment were all we have to pay is rent and electricity!!! The only difference is the washer and dryer hookup and their is no dishwasher here.

Hayden found were we keep the pots and pans pretty quickly.

I didn't do it?!? Like father like son.

Normally it looks a lot worse then this. Like I mentioned in the video I have since put a safety lock on this cupboard.

Happy Birthday Hayden!

2009-12-21T09:05:00.000-08:00

My first time decorating a cake. I even made the frosting myself. That's big for me:) It was however a box cake.

Hayden is his fathers son and loves sports.

Chocolate cake and formula yum, yum :)

Little boys = big messes

Yaaaahoooo!!! Bath time!!!

Hayden's big day was Thursday the 17th but we celebrated with a little cake and ice cream on Saturday with some friends and family. He is getting so big and always the life of any party:) He got a sports stand and play set from my sisters family which he absolutly LOVES. It came with a bat which he carries all over the apartment. Tyler called him a little cave man and it fits perfectly so stay out of his way :) Bret and Hayden enjoy playing basketball together now. We got him an alphabet train which helps teach colors, numbers, letters and singing. He likes to push it around and chew on the alphabet blocks. We have lots of learning and teaching ahead of us... Grandma Van Zanten got him some bath toys which he played with during his cake clean up in the tub. The Betzold's gave him a couple U of M bibs. Bret was really happy.
We even had Grandma and Grandpa Anderson visit via web cam. It was funny trying to get Hayden to hold still long enough for them to get a good video of him:) Tyler was great because he became their spokesman by narrating and moving the web cam so they could kinda see what was going on. Also on the guess arrivals were Grandpa and Grandma Gregory who came down from Grand Rapids. We haven't seen them in a few months so it was fun to have dinner and play together with Hayden.
Our Relief Society lesson on Sunday was really wonderful. Each of the sisters shared a heart felt Christmas thought and then we all sang a favorite hymn to follow each thought. The spirit was really strong and I shared how grateful I am for all my many blessing from the Lord. Just before I turned 1 was when my parents discovered I had Cystic Fibrosis. The prognosis was not good. Now here I am relatively healthy and wonderfully happy married to a special, understanding and caring man with a little one year old of my own. He is very healthy and very happy all the time. I will turn 30 the day after Christmas. For me 30 is truly a blessing and here's to at least 30 more :)))

VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Hayden on the move!!!

2009-11-29T18:19:00.000-08:00

For Thanksgiving this year Hayden decided to start walking all by himself. We try to get him to walk between the two of us but he is his own person with his own agenda and usually turns at the last minute for what ever toy of interest. Church today was fun with all the people, wide open spaces and stairs to climb :)

Hayden stayed a couple days with Grandma and Grandpa Gutgsell this last week so Bret and I could go to Nauvoo for a friends wedding. He learned a new laugh while there because my family is so wild and crazy with Uncle Darren and Aunt Marie to play with. Grandpa has a new little dancing buddy. :)
Here we are with lots of extended family for Thanksgiving and Hayden showing off his new skills.

On the move and going fast

2009-11-28T18:24:00.000-08:00

Hayden has been cruising along furniture and holding hands to walk for a couple months now. I knew the day would come that he would just let go and walk but I didn't know it would be so soon! Sorry, I don't have a video yet but I will post it soon. He is also climbing stairs like a pro even though he has only been exposed to them 4 times!!!
He will be a year on Dec. 17th. I can't wait to see how he attacks his birthday cake:) I think we will just have a family and friends party at our place Saturday the 19th. Everyone is welcome just let me know so I can get enough cake and ice cream!!!
Bret got out all our Christmas decorations this morning and had to put the star on our tall tree before he went to work today. We were a bit concerned Hayden would not leave the tree alone but so far so good, he has not really gone for it yet! So the Holiday spirit is alive and well in our home Christmas music and all :)
WE LOVE THIS TIME OF YEAR!!!

Trick or Treat

2009-11-20T08:07:00.000-08:00

Hayden has 4 teeth on top and 2 teeth on bottom with a handsome smile. He had long hair until I told Bret I wanted to trim it. Bret used the razor and you can see in the last picture that he took off about 2-3 inches :( At least it can grow back:)

Hayden was a very happy Tigger for Halloween and was the life of the Branch party!!!

I decided to accentuate my gray hair for the occasion. When Hayden 1st saw me with the wig he was so very confused. I wish I had gotten a picture of his expression.

Hayden's treat was his adventure in the bathroom while Bret was getting ready for Church. I leave them alone for 5 minutes and look what I get.

A couple of weeks ago Hayden found a big soft teddy bear. It is now his sleeping buddy. He gives him hugs and loves to chew on his furry hat. It's so funny because the bear is as big as Hayden and just as cuddly :)

Hello everyone

2009-10-19T14:59:00.000-07:00

We are all doing well. I am just finishing with my last infection. (I thought it would never end fever and all) Unfortunately, I shared with Hayden and then Bret but its on its way out!!! To celebrate we went out as a family to the Airzoo. It was so much fun and free.

Maybe we are raising a pilot...

Hayden liked walking through the plains.

Hayden has 6 teeth now! That's right 2 on the bottom and 4 on top. The 4 on top all came in at the same time. He is such a good boy I only knew they were coming in because I could feel him trying to bit my finger. He just turned 10 months this last weekend. I can't believe time goes so quickly. He crawls every where and gets into as much as possible before I go to check up on him. Our apartment is mostly baby proofed so I let him explore. He loves to find new treasures and check himself out in the mirror. He usually comes when we call him. (just need to teach him how to bark :) He is the best baby ever!!! He pulls himself up to everything and cruises along all the furniture. Hayden is getting so fast he may run before the year is up :) He really likes to wrestle with daddy on the floor and gives a powerful body slam!
Bret is doing well. He is busy with classes Monday, Wednesday and Friday, works almost every day and somehow still finds time to study, play with Hayden and cuddle with me. I wish I could do more for him... He is the best!!!

Watch out world here I come!!!

I got a new hair style. Thanks Kari

A little visit with aunt Kari.

Hayden's Moving

2009-09-25T19:56:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to see our little man out and about in our home. He has been walking with help for about a month now. He just skipped over crawling because he thought he was just too good for it. He cruses along the couch and dances when you hold his hands. We will post those movies latter. He also likes to roll from place to place until this week when he finally tried getting up on all 4s. Bret and I were both home and cheered him on. Before long he will be running!!!

The Rest of our Utah Trip

2009-08-30T18:59:00.000-07:00

Bret reminded me yesterday that I still have not finished our Utah trip or posted new pictures of Hayden. So I informed him that he is just as capable yet has not posted anything either... :)

Anyway, we had a wonderful vacation in Utah and Idaho!!!! Here are some pictures a bit of our fun trip story.

Grandma with Ty and Hayden getting excited for the fireworks. Hayden ended up falling asleep in my arms latter and slept through all the show.
Jeff, Jackie and Ty hanging out before the 4th of July fireworks.
Grandma Colleen, Grandpa Wayne and Daisy smiling for the camera.

The annual Helpingstine BBQ on July 3rd, 2009.
Andrew and his son Johnathan, Dave, Trevor, Chris, Bret and our son Hayden
It was so fun to hang out with all the old group and the next generation.

Family outing to Shashone Falls near Twin Falls, Idaho. Grandpa Wayne and Hayden loved being with each other the whole vacation. They became great buddies.

Four generations of family love. Great Grandpa David Widmer, his daughter Grandma Colleen, her son Bret and his son Hayden. We had a fabulous time at the Widmer picnic in Ogden, Utah where Hayden and I were able to get to know more of Bret's fun loving family.

These are 3 of my great aunt's Sharlene, Kaye and Marva from Stockton Utah. They came up to meet Hayden and to hear how all the family in Michigan is doing. It was so very nice to see them and catch up on the Reynold's family.

Our final stop was a mini FTM Sisters reunion. Melissa, Me and Hayden, Amy, Julie and her son Heath, Kelly, and Linzi. It was really nice to see everyone and introduce the babies to eachother.

Melissa opened her families home to us that evening so we could rise early the next morning to fly home to Michigan. Thanks to everyone for your hospitality, love and friendship. You are always welcome to visit with us in Michigan.

Kari's health update

2009-07-27T07:05:00.000-07:00

Our vacation really was a lot more full and fun then just flying out to Utah. However, my health has been poor for a little while so I haven't had time to finish blogging our trip. My goal is to finish it up within the next two weeks...
The previous couple of years I have been on I.V. antibiotics at home or in the Hospital about every 3-4 months. When I was pregnant for Hayden my IV treatments were a bit more spaced out and my lung function stayed relatively good. So I am happy to say that my last antibiotic dose was right after Hayden was born and when it was done my lung function (FEV1) was about 77%. Having Hayden is such a blessing because I have been without antibiotics for about 6 months which is the longest time in a few years. He keeps me healthy by keeping me home where I can take better care of myself.
About 2 weeks before our vacation I had a scheduled CF appointment with Dr. Homnick. My cough and mucus production was increased so I knew I would be getting antibiotics. My FEV1 was about 64% so I began oral antibiotics. I went back 2 weeks later which was the day before we left for Utah. The meds were not working because my lung function had not gotten any better and all my symptoms were still increased. Dr. Homnick probably would have put me on IV's then but I told him I didn't want to take then on vacation with me. Our vacation was wonderful and just what we needed.
We flew home on Tuesday and were all really tired. Unfortunately, my symptoms got worse. That day and the next I coughed up blood with my mucus (never a good sign). I should have gone in immediately to start IV's but I didn't until the next Tuesday which is clinic day. My FEV1 was 58% and Dr. Marks admitted me to the Hospital. I told Dr. Marks that Hayden would have to stay in with me because I still nurse him and he thought that would not be a problem... So we got in and all settled and even slept through the night rather well. Everyone who saw him during our stay fell instantly in love. He is such a wonderful baby who seldom fusses and is always happy to share a big, warm smile. The first morning the charge nurse came in really early and said hospital policy states that Hayden could not stay with me alone in case my statues changes. (everyone besides him knew my statues would not change) I was kinda freaking out because I didn't want to burden other people to come and stay with us and Hayden couldn't go anywhere because he still gets nursed every 3-4 hours. It was all just a big mess and rather stressful, needless to say I did not get any rest because I had to find people to come and sit with us, I had to feed and entertain Hayden, the medical staff came in all the time, we were not at home, Bret had to hurry in everyday between work shifts, I didn't know how long I would have to stay in the Hospital with all this stress and no rest and to really compound things...I had just begun babysitting a little girl on Monday and now her dad had to quick find someone to replace me for possibly 2 weeks. It was a really big mess!!!
I think Dr. Marks got the idea because he let us go home on Friday afternoon. What a huge relief!!! I rested all weekend and went back to the CF clinic on Tuesday. My FEV1 was not any better but I was beginning to feel better so I stayed on IV's for another week. Bret helped watch the little girl all week and made sure I was doing all my breathing and IV treatments as well as taking care of Hayden. Life is so much easier at home. I go back into clinic tomorrow after 2 full weeks of IV antibiotics and hopefully my FEV1 will be back up in the 70's. I feel a lot better and look forward to another 6 months of no extra medications.

Leaving on a jet plane

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

We just returned home from a lovely trip to see LOTS of friends and family in Utah and Idaho. Hayden was a real prince even with all the traveling and messed up eat/sleep schedule. He smiled at everyone and really enjoyed all the attention he received.
Our journey began on Tuesday, June 30th. We drove to Detroit to stay overnight in a Best Western with a pool. The drive took about 2 hours but Hayden HATES his car seat so it seemed like about 5 hours. Bret and I realized how grateful we were for flying instead of driving out west. The hotel also had cable so Bret and Hayden watched ESPN together. A little father son bonding time. For dinner we went out to Chinese and it was really delicious. We don't go out to eat very much so it was a really nice treat. That night Bethany (my best gal pal from High School) and Eric came to say hello. It was a great treat since we haven't seen each other in over a year. We really enjoyed catching up on life and showing Hayden off. When we got back to our room it was still really hot so I had to go down to the front desk and request another room. The desk clerk was really nice but really busy even thought it was 11pm. She gladly gave us another room and 10% off our bill. No one slept very well because of the different environment and excitement to see Grandma and Grandpa Anderson.

Morning came early and Bret was raring to go. We made it to the Airport in plenty of time and Hayden just had to see everything. He is such a good little boy that at home he eats at 9 and 12 with a 2 hour nap in the middle. That day he ate at 7:30 and 12 with only one 20 minute snooze and no fussing. What a trooper he just wanted to check out the world. While we were waiting to board our Branch President Rand Johnson walked up. His aunt just passed away and so he was going out to the funeral on our same flight. As soon as Hayden saw him from his stroller he gave a huge hello smile. So on the flight Hayden started with Mommy and Daddy and ended with Pres. Johnson. We didn't know how he would take it but he was happy through the whole thing.

We landed, got our luggage and headed out to get our rental... 2009 Navy Blue, Jeep Commander with sun roof and remote car starter. NICE vacation vehicle. I could tell Bret missed his mom because he was really anxious. Hayden finally took a nap in the jeep and we got to Mom's around 7 pm. Hayden woke up just before the house and as soon as he saw Grandma he gave her a huge smile. Hayden instantly fell in love with Grandpa Wayne and Grandma Colleen.

Night Rider

2009-06-23T18:58:00.000-07:00

The Sunday School President came over to our place last night so we could discuss new teachers for Sunday School. Oh, I had been released from Elders Quorum President around February and was called to be Sunday School First Counselor. He rode his speed bike over and I had to take it for a little spin. I told him that I would just take it around the apartment complex, but after I made the first turn through the complex I had to take it out for a longer ride. I didn't go far and didn't really dare open it up being my first time driving a speed bike, but it was still fun and cannot wait until I get my bike, which Kari says will be my graduation present. I am hoping that will stay true but I'm not sure right now whether I want to get a speed bike or a cruiser. Kari is telling me I have time to think.

2 Months in the Life of Hayden

2009-06-02T20:26:00.000-07:00

One month till take off

2009-05-26T17:31:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to be visiting out west the first of July. We look forward to seeing as many friends and family as possible. We are flying in and out of Salt Lake City but will be staying with family in Twin Falls, Idaho. For everyone available we will be at the Helpingstine's BBQ on July 3 in Logan. We can't wait to introduce all the babies to each other.
We will be having lunch in Ogden on the 6th with family, then will be in SLC that eveinig with no solid plans. We would love to meet up or hand out with everyone interested so comment on the blog or give us a call or send us an e-mail if your available to say hello. Our trip is only one week so our flight home is on the morning of the 7th.
Hayden, Bret and I are really REALLY looking forward to this vacation and seeing all of you!!!

Holland Michigan Tulip Festival

2009-05-19T08:07:00.000-07:00

We took a trip to Holland Michigan and had a wonderful time seeing the tulips and watching the performers. If your ever in Michigan the 1st week of May we highly recommend this splendid Festival. All the local children were in period clothing including little wooden shoes. All the clothing is hand made and must pass an inspection of authenticity in order to be warn during the town dances. Next year they are going to include a Kinder dance time for children 8-10yrs. We hope we can make it next year as well.
Hayden was so good just hanging out in his stroller all afternoon. He liked watching all the people pass and seeing all the bright colors. If you pay close attention you can see his hair is not what it used to be. We love our little man even with a bad comb over hair job.
We look forward to our visit to Utah and Idaho. Only a month and a half before we leave!!!

Family photos

2009-05-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

This was Hayden's fist visit to the Chicago Temple.
Darren and Marie joined us for a great family trip.

Hayden thought it was really funny to take daddy's
side of the bed for a nap.

Hayden loves it when Bret reads to him.

Our little man.

Hayden's First Haircut

2009-04-22T08:32:00.000-07:00

April 17th was Hayden's 4 month birthday. For his birthday we gave him his first haircut. We realized after it was done that we should have shown how long it was before we started, but you can kind of see how long it was at the beginning of the video. We were amazed at how good Hayden was during the haircut. We probably cut about 2 inches off the top and front. Some baby's don't grow any hair till they are 2 years old but not our Hayden.

It's amazing how genetics work!

2009-04-10T09:48:00.000-07:00

Mommy

Daddy

Baby

A little update

2009-03-13T07:33:00.001-07:00

Our first family portrait. Hayden was such a good little boy for all the pictures.

Hayden in his new blessing suit. He really is a Prince!

Don't mess with me I may look cute but I'm tough!

I know it's been a while... We are all doing great!!! Hayden is growing more every day. He is so wonderful and healthy. He is making so many noise's all the time. He likes to hum himself to sleep in his swing, it's so cute to watch and listen too. His neck is getting stronger everyday, he really likes to sit up and look at the world around him. He is so amazed with lights and faces. He is also learning how to satisfy himself with his fist or even his thumb when it separates from the rest of his hand.(He hasn't learned how to control anything yet) He is our little prince!! Bret blessed him on February 22 in our University Branch and it was truly inspiring. We are so very grateful for the Gospel and Eternal families.
Bret is nearly done with KVCC and will be attending Western Michigan University in the Fall. He will be continuing with his degree in Secondary Education with a focus on Math and Chemistry. I am so proud of all his hard work. I really love being a stay at home mommy!!! The house is usually clean, dinner is usually made and my guy's are great to me. We are really looking forward to visiting Utah and Idaho this July!!! Hayden is exited to meet all his family out there.

Cuddle Time

2009-02-04T13:01:00.000-08:00

Mommy and me time

Always ready for sports.

I wonder how big can I make this thing.

Happy Family

Look matching hair!
I love my Daddy's cuddle's!!

A little family update

2009-02-03T07:18:00.000-08:00

We are all doing wonderfully!!! Hayden is growing so big and so fast he is already over 9lb. His Hair is getting longer and more full everyday. We finally got all his medical tests back...he is only a carrier for Cystic Fibrosis!!!!! Which means no symptoms, no problems, no worries!!!!!!!!

Bret is busy working and went back to school the beginning of January. Sleep is a little challenging when Hayden wants to eat every 3 hours. But we are beginning to have hope... 2 nights ago he went almost 6 hours between feedings. (Hallelujah!!!!!)

I got Bret Pistons basketball tickets for Christmas. Gratefully, we have family close to the Palace. We were able to have our first night out on Friday the 30th. We knew Hayden was in good hands so we had a great time even though the Pistons lost to the Celtic's.

We are so happy to be his parents and hope ya'll are well.

Happy NewYear!

2009-01-05T12:07:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all from Santa Bear and his newest reindeer.

No gel required!! This cool style is all natural and designed by Daddy.

Just chillin' with my Dad!

Just 2 weeks and would you look at these gun's!!!

Our Little Early Christmas Present!!!

2008-12-22T11:27:00.000-08:00

Hayden Michael Van Zanten born at 10:25 p.m. December 17th, 5 lbs. 12 oz., and 19 in. tall. Hayden and mom are both doing great and healthy. The picture of his nursery was panoramic shot from three different corners of his room.
http://www.our365.com/NewbornPortraits/BabyDetail.aspx?birthid=52d6e38a-0b06-40ed-abdd-c6c28f5b5d80
Go to this website to see more pictures of Hayden that the hospital took of him before we left to come home.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-29T13:26:00.001-08:00

Bret and I with Jay and Staci at Bret's Dad's House on Thanksgiving.

My Sister Sherri and I at our Mom's over Thanksgiving. She is expecting their 4th child in March (their 1st boy).

Bret and I in front of our 1st full size Christmas Tree.

Christmas will come early this year!!!

2008-11-29T12:55:00.000-08:00

We went to a baby appointment on Nov. 19th with Doctor Hendrix who will be the one to deliver Hayden. She started off by saying she wanted to do an amniocentesis at 36 weeks and both Bret and I thought NO! Because it's too invasive and not necessary. They suggested one a long time ago to check if Hayden has Cystic Fibrosis and we said no then for the same reason and whether he has it or not, it won't change the pregnancy. I have known from the beginning that I will be induced, Bret and I figured it would just be a week or two early... Come to find out Dr. Hendrix wants to do the amnio at 36 weeks to confirm Hayden's lungs are mature enough for delivery. WOW is an understatement!!! This was news to us and I will forever be grateful to Bret for being able to come to this appointment with me (I have appointments every other week, and with school and work it makes it hard sometimes for Bret to make it to all the appointments). We agreed to the amnio but still felt dazed and shocked. All of a sudden, Hayden would not only beat New Years but Christmas and my Birthday which is Dec. 26th!!! She went on to describe many aspects of the delivery including an epidural (Hallelujah) and possibly vacuum assistance (not so comforting). We had a week to consider all this information before our next appointment on Nov. 26. I called anyone I could think of for advise and suggestions including a friend who is a nurse in Neonatal, my boss who is a respiratory therapist and my CF doctor as well as my mom. Bret and I offered many prayers for comfort and guidance. Our next appointment was wonderful and just what we needed. It started off with an ultrasound (which we haven't had in about a month). He is growing vary well and weighs about 4lbs 5 oz. Dr. Hendrix came in and we asked her to reiterate and clarify all she had said last week. This time we felt excited and ready. My sister in-law put it well when she said she is jealous that I won't have to push out a bigger baby and struggle through the last month of baby stretching and kicking.
So, to make my long story short...if I get an amniocentesis on the morning of December 17 then the induction will start that afternoon. If the amnio is performed in the afternoon then I will be induced on the 18. I have always loved this time of year but nothing could compare to the joy I feel now, knowing the Lord is blessing us with such a wonderful gift!!!

Well I guess we could update y'all a little...

2008-11-11T11:20:00.000-08:00

I was released as University Branch Relief Society President about 2 weeks ago and gratefully passed the mantel onto Annalaura!!!! Stake Conference is this Sunday at which time I will be sustained for my new calling... There is always much the Lord would have us do. However, the last couple weeks of little church responsibility has been very refreshing. Bret is still Elders Quorum President for the next 18 months at which time we will have to move to a family ward so Hayden can go to nursery.
Speaking of Hayden. He is a real mover and shaker!!! I feel him a lot more frequently. Sometimes when Bret and I are watching TV on the couch Bret will get a big smile on his face and then reach for my belly because he just saw Hayden move. I love those precious moments. We already know which parent will be the nice guy and mean mom... So I tell Bret to remind Hayden that he can be Daddy's boy but Mommy loves him too. We had our last ultrasound on October 23 and the doctors all said he is right on track. He weighed 2lb and 14oz which I thought was big but they said that's average. Bret and I are guessing he will be between 7-8lb's when he is born. I really hope he fits through my birth canal...
My health has been good. I have a bit of a sinus thing starting because the weather in Michigan keeps changing but so far so good. I am resting lots and keeping the apartment in order. I finally finished reading all the Twilight books and I look forward to seeing the move with some girlfriends soon.

I had a wonderful baby shower two weeks ago at the Miles home. (They are the family I nanny for) Where Hayden got the most handsome outfits and fun goodies. The shower had a great turn out of people. I loved it and everyone had a good time. Bret really liked going through everything when he got home from work that night. We didn't want to buy anything till after the shower but now we have most everything Hayden will need for his first few months of life. Bret had Wednesday off from work so we went shopping for a dresser for all of Hayden's cloths (We won't need to buy him any till he is 6 months because of all his grandma's and the shower)!!! We think he may have more outfits then Bret and I put together. He will be the cutest baby ever!!! Anyway, we spent all day trying to find a simple non expensive dresser but even a cheep one at Wal-Mart was about $300. Finally, I suggested we try at Art Van Clearance center just to drool. Miracles do happen...we found a fun blue bedroom set (dresser, night stand, wall mirror and twin bed headboard) for $300. Even with taxes the set was cheaper and more sturdy then any single dresser we had looked at all day long. We were exited to say the least, I could hardly contain myself!!! We got it home and into Hayden's room just in time to leave for our baby basics parenting class. It was the funnest class we have been to because I must have gotten Hayden exited about his new bedroom set also...He would not stop moving all night and it wasn't just little twitches...he was jumping, kicking, punching, waving and having a good old time. It's a good thing Bret and I already know how to change diapers because we had a hard time paying attention to the teacher with our little entertainer doing tricks.
We are so happy and truly blessed. Life is full of adventures so treasure all you can.

Daddy's can be so cute!!

2008-10-17T12:17:00.001-07:00

I have been wanting to go window shopping for baby stuff for about a month. Bret had time before work today so we finally went. He likes shopping as much as I do but we have lots of family and friends who can't wait to spoil baby Hayden with stuff and we are grateful for their generosity. So this trip was only to look and think for a future spending date. Just as we were walking into the first store Bret told me "lets not buy anything till after the baby shower" and I agreed... This first store was a second hand childhood shop and it was great!! Everything was in good repair from cloths to swings to wall decorations to cribs to diaper bags and lots more. I was getting really exited for that future spending day!! Next, thing I know we see this really cute framed poster about toddlers and how everything is theirs. We really liked it and the price was right so, I picked it up. Then, Bret spotted a variety of mobiles and quickly headed straight for them. When I caught up to him he turned around with a Tigger rocking horse in his arm and a big grin on his face. He is the biggest sucker for Tigger and again the price was right. We headed for the check out before we saw anything else with the right price.
We then drove to Babies R Us. I've never been in there before and assumed the prices would not be just right so I was content with just looking... It was a nice store and the prices were not as bad as I expected. We looked at baby monitors, furniture, strollers and baby bibs. If you ever want a good laugh read the baby bib wall at Babies R Us... Bret couldn't resist getting a couple! Now remember, this trip was my idea and he said we shouldn't buy anything even before we entered the first store. The bibs he had to get said "chicks dig me" and "If you think I'm cute, you should see my dad". I'm telling you sometimes Daddy's can have as much, if not more fun then Mommy's. We left before he could pick out Hayden's first University of Michigan jogging suit.

Pregnant and Lovin it

2008-10-08T14:13:00.000-07:00

Baby Hayden is now 27 weeks along or about 6 months gestation. I feel him kick often and even Bret gets to experience his strength sometimes. At our last appointment, the doctor said something I have never heard before about myself and it really surprised me...She said" Kari everything looks normal". With my health and character, "normal" has never been used to describe me before but it was so nice to hear that this pregnancy is going as expected.
Because I have Cystic Fibrosis this is a high risk pregnancy. We chose not to have Bret genetically tested to see if he was a CF carrier. Though we could pass CF on to our child we feel the Lords blessing upon us as our baby grows within me. We will not know until he is delivered and either way he is ours and we are his for Eternity.

Our Creation

2008-10-06T19:31:00.000-07:00

We decided to try for a baby back in December while watching the LDS Christmas devotional on my hospital bed. I was just coming to the end of a weeks stay in the Hospital for a bad lung infection. Keep in mind it was my first inpatient stay in about 11 years. I usually just do IV antibiotics at home with rest but this time my doctor put his foot down and I had to go along with it.
I had been thinking about a baby for some time but didn't want to persuade Bret into anything. So when he leaned over to me and said he wanted a baby I used all the self control my body contained to not jump out of bed and dance around the hospital room.
One early May morning I woke up to use the rest room and contemplated using our last pregnancy test...Bret was sleeping so peacefully until I quietly crawled back into bed and gently woke him by saying " Honey, I know its Sunday but could we go to the store and buy another pregnancy test". (Quietly...she came running in and pounced on me) His eyes got really big and said "What!! Really!!" We then quickly went to the store. Upon our return and another trip to the bathroom our hopes became a reality!!!
I told Bret I wanted to wait to tell everyone but all of our 4 sets of parents knew before the day was up. Everyone else knew before 2 weeks had passed.
We had our first Baby Doctor appointment at 6 weeks and was able to have an ultrasound to confirm the babies gestational age. It was absolutely amazing to see our little peanut. I have by weekly baby appointments and they usually include an ultrasound. One time Bret said "I'm glad your pregnancy is High risk so we can see our baby so often." I just smiled and gave him a big kiss. I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes at about 13 weeks and it is under control with insulin and diet. I have not had any amount of morning sickness or any other complications. So far this pregnancy has been a lot better then I expected.
At our 15 week appointment the ultrasound technician asked if we wanted to know the babies sex (Bret wanted a boy so bad and I just wanted a healthy baby) we both said yes. Bret got exactly what he wanted...there was no mistaking our little man for a little girl. When I looked over at Bret I could feel the delight in his soul and see the excitement in his eyes. It was perfect!!

Health

2008-10-06T13:04:00.000-07:00

To all who do or do not know my younger brother Darren and I have Cystic Fibrosis. Basically, it is a genetic disease which affects the respiratory and digestive systems. Everyone who has it is affected differently. Our biological parents had 4 kids, Aaron, me, Sherri and Darren. Aaron and Sherri are both married with all healthy children even though one of them is a carrier for the genetic disease. A carrier is someone who genetically contains the mutation but not any of the symptoms. Because CF is a recessive disease both parents need to be at least carriers to give the child the disease.
I was diagnosed at about 11 months of age and my parents had no idea what CF was let alone that they were carriers. Once I was diagnosed and began treatments I was relatively healthy. I have only been hospitalized about 3 times that I can remember. Darren however, has always been a lot worse. He got a double lung transplant about 2 weeks after we found out we were expecting a baby. His recovery is going amazingly well and my health though the pregnancy is very good also.

Our History

2008-10-06T11:19:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!!
I guess I'll begin by saying you don't have to move to Utah to meet the man of your dreams... Bret moved to Michigan to live with his father and stepmother in December of 2006. His plans were to go to school and see what the Michiganders were like. I was living with 2 roommates, attending Western Michigan University and working at the time.
On one cold mid December evening my 2 roommate (Desiree and Annalaura), Bret, Tyler and Jessy decided to meet and go ice skating here in Kalamazoo. After ice skating they all returned to our apartment for hot chocolate. I got home from work to find some fun new handsome faces in our apartment. Everyone was chatting and getting to know eachother while the TV remote was being passed around for entertainment. When, all of a sudden, I realized the TV had stopped on a FSU Football game!!! I mean who in there right mind would watch college football at a girls apartment... gross!!!!! I jokingly (loudly) made my point...and found Bret with the remote. He was very good looking and all decked out like he should be on his way to go snowboarding (I was wearing a beanie and a long sleeve shirt). I tried not to pay too much attention because I was sure he was much younger then I and maybe he had not even served a church mission yet. But he was Hot!!!
About one month later Desiree and Tyler started dating and then quickly engaged. Tyler had just returned home from his mission and he knew what he wanted. Desiree was preparing for a mission and thought she knew what she wanted....Long story short. They are our best friends and live just one apartment building over form us.
I found out he was not as young as he looked and had been home from his mission in Jamaica for a while. I realized I really liked Bret during a trip to the Detroit Temple on March 3, 2007. That night a group of us watched a movie at "the girls apartment" and Bret showed me lots of interest but I didn't want to get my hopes up. The next evening was a CES Broadcast at the stake center. I came in late and found the seat next to him empty so I filled it quickly. When he leaned forward, I really tried to resist the temptation to rub his back but I didn't resist too long...when he leaned back again he put his hand on my knee which really shocked me and I didn't need to hope anylonger. We have been together ever since.
He suprised me by proposing out front of the Detroit Temple the last weekend of April. The next week Annalaura, my brother Darren, Bret and I traveled to Desiree and Tyler's wedding in Nauvoo. Darren, Bret and I then continued onto Utah to see friends and meet family. I knew if I wanted a modest Wedding Dress I had to get it while I was in Utah so Julie Tew (one of my favoite missionary companions) took me shopping and it worked out perfectly. So did meeting his family. It is such a blessing when all the in-laws like each other.
We got married on August 25, 2007 in the Detroit Temple. We spent our honeymoon in Lava Spring, ID, visiting family, and had a wonderful time. The day after we got home to Kalamazoo, Michigan, we both went back to school and work. I finished my bachelor's degree in Organizational Communication and Travel and Tourism in April 2008. We found out we were expecting a baby in May and we were so very happy. They say the first year of marriage is the hardest but I have to disagree because we get along so well this has been the easiest time of my life!!!