The Many Faces of Hayden

Hello all!

This is the last week Stephanie gets to stay home with the baby. She goes back to work Friday. She's a little anxious obviously, but I think things will be ok. While on maternity leave, she took some really neat pics of Hayden. Here are a few.

An apple a day...

Hayden needs to start eating regular food. We had a Dr. apointment today and he gave her a shot. She cried and Steph and I felt bad about it. Typical parent feelings I guess. Anyway, she has grown to 21.5 inches and is about 9 lbs. 7 oz. The doctor says she is coming along fine and wants to see her in a month for more shots. (If he hurts her, I might have to beat him up!!!)

Rich, Stephanie & Hayden

More pics

The lady holding Hayden is named Ruth. She is the mother-in-law of Rich's Aunt Peg. She was the best friend of Rich's grandma.

My how time flies!

Ok, I know it's been over a month but you can't blame me. We've been trying to get sleep in our free time. We are doing well. Stephanie and Hayden are venturing out into the world visiting places here and there. They went to the middle school this week and one of the high school football games a few weeks ago. We went to a carnival last week. So we've been busy. Bedtime is about 8:30. At least we try anyway. Hayden's a night owl. She wakes up at 10 pm or so and likes to stay up until midnite or later. Yeah, that's fun. Oh well, it does get better doesn't it? Until next time. Here's more pictures.

What a week

It's been about a week since I've last posted something. Things have been busy. Steph is adjusting really well to staying home alone with the baby. There are still some times where it can get hectic but I don't either of us would have it any other way. I decided to stay home today and not go to Illinois home opener vs. Western Illinois. I didn't feel right going and leaving Stephanie with Hayden two weeks after she had her. Although, I must admit I have the greatest wife in the world. She told me that I should go. I deserved a day out with the guys, but I said no (you can tell, I'm trying to stock up on brownie points and use them at a later date. Like the Michigan or Northwestern games, HA). Anyway, nothing else much to report here. Hayden and mom are doing well, I'm trying to adjust to life as a father. Sometimes I think I'm screwing things up and I might break her. I'll learn it though. Til next time.

Rich, Stephanie & Hayden

More pictures - See what I have to do to keep the dog busy

Survival of the fittest!

I've been asked (by many) what's taking so long as far as an update goes. As you can see from the pictures, not only have we been busy but, you'll see what we do when we do get free time. Here's the latest. I went back to work on Thursday leaving Stephanie and Hayden alone for the first time. I have to be honest, I was a little upset that I had to leave my girls alone for the first time. I called Steph later that day and she gave me a report. Here's a summary:

• no sleep


• no shower


• no eat


• HELP!!!

I tried to take baby duty when I came home. I don't know if I helped. I stayed up with Hayden until 1:00 am or so while Steph slept. We went up to bed at 9:00 or so and she fell right asleep. She had about 6 hours of sleep before waking up around 3:15-3:30 am. Friday went much better. Saturday, Hayden had her first long distance road trip to Grandma & Grandpa's in Barrington. She had a great time up there. Slept most of the time. We all had a nice visit. Stephanie's mom decided to take on the challenge of making 5 meals for us to bring home. Yum!! Stephanie's kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Reubens, came for a visit. She and her husband were impressed with Hayden. Why wouldn't they be. That's all for now. Take a good look at one of the picutres. You'll see what the weather was like the day Hayden was born. That's what I drove through to get home for some sleep. I must be nuts or stupid or both.

Rich, Stephanie, & Hayden