Grammie Brown

Unfortunately, JB's Grandma (Grammie Brown) passed away, which meant we were in Elkhart for the funeral last week. It was very emotional for JB since he was so close with Grammie and has such loving memories of her.

She was a wonderful role model to her family and lived a full 91 years of life. Her death was not unexpected, but that does not make the loss any easier. I remember the first time I met Grammie - JB told her that he was going to marry me. Her response was simply "We should be so lucky." What a smart lady. ;)

We are thankful that she is in heaven and blessed that she touched so many during her lifetime.

32 Weeks and Counting

On January 6th, we had our 32rd week Dr.'s apt. This was merely a check-up to make sure that everything is going well with Baby Brown. We are happy to report that both the baby and I are doing well.

It is amazing how the time has flown by during this pregnancy. Even Dr. Clinton started our apt. by commenting on this being our 32nd week and how quickly Baby Brown will be here. I cannot believe that Baby Brown will be here in just eight short weeks if all goes according to plan. I am thankfully crossing things off my checklist and hope to have all items checked by the end of this month. This may be wishful thinking, but I am thinking positive. ;)

At this appointment, Dr. Clinton also clarified for JB where to park when we come to the hospital for delivery. I had to laugh, but know this information reassured JB. So, we can either valet or park in the parking garage across the street depending on the intensity of contractions, labor, etc.

Fetal Echo Ultrasound

This is merely an update - our final fetal echo ultrasound was on January 5th. We are happy to report that Baby Brown's heart is normal and healthy. In addition to the ultrasound, we were able to hear Brown's heart beat, which is always exciting.

New Year

Happy New Year to you all!!! Sorry for the lack in posting, but with the holidays the time has really gotten away from me.

We hope that you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year!! We had a wonderful time with the Ortiz family Christmas morning and into the early afternoon. It was so fun watching the kids open presents and see their reactions. I just loved my niece Zoey's face when she opened the Barbie bathtub set JB and I got her and immediately said, "I love it Aunt Leslie. This is great!!!" Kennedy and Carson were just as fun as they opened up their gifts. Of course my parents went overboard and even Baby Brown had a few presents under the tree.

Here is one of the toys baby Brown received. Thanks Mom and Dad.

We then headed over to JB's parent's house Christmas evening for more family fun. Thank goodness our parents only live ten mins. from each other.

JB's family started a tradition about two years ago where everyone would spend the night at his parent's house. It is a great time for us all to spend time together.

We made dinner, opened presents and watched movies. Of course the kids could not wait until we were done with dinner so they could open their gifts. The basement was such a whirlwind of opening gifts, paper flying and excitement as each one opened their gift. JB's mom was very generous with her grandchildren and once they opened their gifts they were ready to play their games. I believe both Jon and Cora tried the Tony Hawk Wii game. All the kids couldn't believe that Jon and Cora tried to skateboard. Later that night the kids were telling us that their Paw Paw had mad skills on the board. ;)

All in all it was a great time with family. We also headed back to Elkhart for New Year's Eve. My Uncle Junior and Aunt Cindy were hosting a New Year's Eve party. JB and I made the drive in after I got off to work so that we could visit with the Ortiz side of the family. It had been too long and was a great opportunity to see most of the family at one time. The food was great, the drinks were flowing and the company was even better. If you can believe it, I made it until 3:00 a.m. Although I must say it is very different being at an Ortiz party sober. ;) Thank you again Junior and Cindy for a great party! We enjoyed ringing in 2010 with you all.

As 2010 begins, JB and I say thank you to our family and friends. We are truly blessed to have you in our lives. We hope that 2010 brings you love, happiness and laughter.