3 weeks old

For my birthday I got myself one of these flashes for our camera, and it is so easy to use I was able to get that pic above. In reality Viv will be the true owner of this gift but at least I got the first taste.

MBA Hood

It took a number of miracles to get me to my Norwich University hooding ceremony last Thursday evening. Dad and Kathy were a huge huge help in making it happen and it was so nice to have them there to celebrate with me. Jerry had to talk Levi out of a total meltdown during the ceremony, which is just a representation in miniature of how he's been supporting me all along.

If you're wondering, I am not actually all the way done, but am in the middle of my final semester right now, which will end in 9 weeks, 8 assignments, and 1 thesis. Still, the end is in sight and I feel quite proud of what I have accomplished thus far. It was great to visit the beautiful campus and meet my classmates that I have been working with for so long.

Baby Pics

Here are some pics to enjoy. We're all home now and everybody seems to be doing good. Nothing much beyond that to report.

Gwen Sophronia Thomas born June 7, 2011

Welcome to the family, Gwen.  7 lbs 10 oz and 20.5 inches. Born at 6am.

Just like Levi she's just a few days on the early side, calm, and healthy. The good news is there isn't much to report. With such a sensitive process where so many things can go wrong, we're grateful that there haven't been any problems. The cord was wrapped at least twice around her neck (probably from all those in utero somersaults), but luckily it wasn't an issue. Both she and Viv are doing well and hopefully they'll get some sleep tonight.

Here is the before picture. Making labor look fun.

Here is the after picture. Ready for a nap.

Levi was excited to go visit the hospital this afternoon. I showed him some pics before we drove over and he said "She's so cute!" and then after we came back he said "I love my new baby sister." At least he has room in his heart for one little girl in this world. We'll see how it goes when Gwen comes home tomorrow.

In other news, I tried to cook for myself and Levi tonight and burned the taquitos. Yeah those premade type in the frozen food aisle. I could blame the oven with the misleading temp scale, or the lack of sleep, or maybe even feeling the weight of parenting el nino all by myself. But let's face it I'm lost without Vivian. I'm glad she's healthy and healing.