Monday 10.20.09

Monday, October 20, 2008 1:28 AM, CDT

We had a terrific surprise tonight when we popped in after breast pumping at 1am and John was having his tubes, etc. changed. We got to see and kiss him while he was uncovered. Pics being loaded now!

If Ruth continues to improve the insurance co. will send us home Tuesday evening.

It is CRITICAL that we avoid exposing John to illness, so please delay visiting Ruth if you are sick or caring for someone who is.

Monday, October 20, 2008 1:31 PM, CDT

Went through the evaluation notes with the neo-natalogist today and John is doing well...he went an hour without a C-Pap breathing pump, needs no additional oxygen and has never needed a ventilator. He goes off antibtiotics tonight.

On the negative side a nurse transposed numbers and falsely told us John had gained weight. He is now 6 ounces lighter at 3 pounds 7 ounces.

Monday, October 20, 2008 6:42 PM, CDT

When visiting, a standing Ruth (nice development) was allowed to change John's diaper and check his temperature..she is now exhausted.

Monday, October 20, 2008 7:23 PM, CDT

Daddy saw John's eyes open when he sang the "Eyes of Texas"

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY!!!

The past year has been filled with amazing adventures and incredible blessings. Our little tiny preemie Bubeaner has grown into a vivacious and healthy toddler. He loves to babble and get his hands on everything. His favorite past time is imitating Momma and Dad and chasing the dogs around the house. At times we wonder if he thinks he's one of them.


Family and friends joined us to celebrate the first year of miracles and answer prayers in Bubeaner's life. We were blessed with wonderful weather despite the recent rains and cold weather. The children enjoyed the bounce house and cotton candy machine.


Bubeaner mingled amongst his new friends and cousins. We are not sure of everything he ate, but pretty much assume that if it was being consumed by someone near him, he tried it. Which might explain why he was not so excited about eating his birthday cupcake and cake. (He had a beautiful Pinocchio cake made by Bita.) Or he could have just been shy; he was taken aback when everyone formed a circle around him and sang Happy Birthday.


Bubeaner received many lovely presents. Although he did enjoy playing with the tissue paper much more. Thanks to our family and friends we also collected a basketfull of preemie clothing to donate to his old NICU. We can't think of a better way to end this wonderful year than by passing on some of the blessings to little ones just starting out their own special journeys.

UT - OU weekend

This year we won't be going to the Red River Shootout game because we are having Bubeaner's party. However, we were still able to meet the group for the traditional pizza the night before. Granted it was a smaller group since only the ones with little ones chose to eat at a much earlier time. Actually, we were done and out before we would usually get to the restaurant. And there were 8 adults and 10 children! Oh, how times change!

Bubeaner made a good friend in Anton.
They immediately took to each other.

It was good to see old friends. And pretty interesting to see Dad and his college friend with their respective boys. They both had little clones! We fear for the trouble these two will get into when they are in college. Hopefully, it will not even be close to the adventures their fathers undertook.

State Fair And Other Fun

We were delighted to take Bubeaner to his first State Fair! Everyone should experience the spectacle and taste all the unhealthy, albeit delicious, food.

Momma and Bubeaner at the State Fair
before the fun started

Momma was happy because she also got to spend the day with aunt Pau and her cousins Lina, Daniel, and Luis. Bubeaner really took to Lina probably because she would not put him down.

Can't go to the Fair without having a
Fletcher's Corny Dog!

There were a lot of people around everywhere. Bubeaner enjoyed people watching. But he particularly like trying his first Fletcher's corny dog (the absolute BEST). We did make sure that he had some "nutritious" meal of beef tacos after he also had a taste of a corn on the cob, funnel cake, fried butter (surprisingly delicious), turkey leg and tornado fries. Don't worry he only had a bite of each unlike everyone else who probably gained about 5 pounds on that day alone.

Meeting Big Tex
Bubeaner was not impressed

Bubeaner did take his regular nap in his stroller. We just put on his cover to block out the view, and he slept soundly. The cousins were surprised. Once he woke up, he was ready for more people watching and eating not once fussing.

Nothing gets in the way of Bubeaners afternoon nap
not even the Fair, rain, or even noisy kids

Dad and Momma snuck away later that night to the U2 concert. Bubeaner spent the night with aunt Pau. They had fun and Bubeaner did not even miss mom and dad.

Momma and Dad on the way to the U2 concert

Enjoying the awesome music

Pumpkin Patch 2009

Bubeaner's first trip to a pumpkin patch was scheduled long ago. It was the only weekend we were free, and, of course, it also coincided with this cold and rainy front. We were not deterred and headed out with a bundled up Bubeaner. The pumpkin patch was not too far away.

Not so sure about the safety of the wagon.

We were pretty early (one of the advantages of an early mass) and got there before it was too crowded. This allowed us to get a good parking spot away from most of the muddy mess. Bubeaner started showing some unease about this new adventure when we placed him in one of the red wagons provided. He immediately braced against one side and held on to the other side.

Bubeaner flirted a little with some of the other visitors.

He soon was able to relax and enjoy the field littered with pumpkins and all the fun little gadgets, decorations and other "silly stuff" as described by Dad. He also enjoyed people-watching and a little flirting too. The boy will be a danger when he gets older. He even got his photograph taken by a couple of women because he looked so cute.

Our beautiful boy flashing a gorgeous smile

We took the obligatory pumpkin patch pictures and picked out two large pumpkins (Momma and Dad) and a little one (Bubeaner) and headed out. Bubeaner's patience was running out by this time probably due to the cold weather. We loved our experience at the pumpkin patch and imagine that next year it will not be as sedate once Bubeaner can walk/run around.

Bubeaner was getting a little tired

On the drive home we saw some Flying Tatanka! Ok, so they were not flying but that was only because we were watching them as Bito would have explained to us. Bubeaner was already asleep and did not get to see them. Aunt Pau and Momma made plans to take him back at a later time to see the Great Flying Tatanka. It's almost a rite of passage in our family.

Relaxing with a warm bottle watching a little football
after the busy morning.

Going Greek

It still surprises us how cold is has been lately. Today was down right chilly. The rain, though greatly appreciated, makes it feel even worse. For some reason the cold weather made us all crave Greek food. We couldn't figure out the connection. It just sounded good.

Extremely fussy Bubeaner

Bubeaner is usually great when we are out. But for some reason today he was just being a little pill. He was not happy with the food. He was not happy with the stroller. He was just not happy. And then he actually started making a scene! He cried and "talked" back (screamed) at us. Aunt Pau, Momma and Dad were stunned. He has never before thrown a tantrum in public. Hopefully, this will not be the start of a new habit.

How absolutely ADORABLE does he look?

The food was pretty delicious. And Bubeaner eventually settled enough to eat some too. Although he did continue to give us dirty looks with an occasional outburst of anger. It probably did not help his mood that we thought it only made him look cuter. He also appeared to resent the video we attempted to take of his outbursts.

These were taken a couple of days ago.
He actually left the hat on without messing with it.

Driving Duties

Dad went back to work today for half a day. Momma and Bubeaner drove Dad to and from work since it is a a long drive even without traffic. And also because we did not want Dad to over do it and try to stay later trying to catch up on things he couldn't work on from home the last 4 weeks.

Bubeaner enjoyed playing with Candy and Debbie

Bubeaner and Momma decided to stay in the area. It takes an hour one-way to get there. Dad was only staying for 4 hours. It just seemed easier to stay in the area and act like tourists. We stopped at an outdoor shopping center to walk around with Bubeaner in his new stroller. Even though it was cold and drizzling, the stroller's weather gear kept him toasty and dry. Bubeaner appeared to enjoy the people watching and even a little of the shopping. He now has a few thick sweaters to get us through the first cold/hot season changes, a couple more pants and an awesome golfer hat. Bubeaner looks adorable. Although, the hat is a size 3T-4T. There is no denying the Haltom genes.

Bubeaner eating by himself

Bubeaner enjoyed spending some time at Dad's office later in the afternoon. He sported his new hat to great reviews. And although Dad had seen no need for a chauffeur, he really appreciated it by the end of the day. He was surprised at how exhausted he was after only a few hours at the office. He appreciated sitting back and relaxing with Bubeaner rather than having to drive. Tomorrow he is going back for 6 hours. We hope he does not over do it.

Bubeaner practicing walking on his own
with a new walker-type toy

Another Tuesday

Bubeaner is getting used to his new chair. He's also learned which ways to move to reach things on the table. We have to be extremely careful with what is left within his grasp.

Momma turned to get his meal
and Bubeaner had reached for the croissant.

We switched television programing providers. Today was installation day for the new provider. The technician did an amazing job. He was very thorough making sure everything was properly done, fixing issues created by the previous provider's technicians, and explaining everything to us. The only problem was we were also adding a television with service to the nursery. This meant Bubeaner could not take his morning and afternoon naps in his crib. Bubeaner was not phased by it. He just napped in his play area.

Morning nap amongst his toys

The best thing about napping in the play area?
You can go back to playing right after you wake up!

We placed the Pack-N-Play mattress in the play area for the afternoon nap.
We thought it would be more comfortable.
Bubeaner preferred the foam mats.

Manic Monday

We woke up to a beautiful, though a little humid, morning. We took a nice leisurely walk around the neighborhood with Dad. Ok, it would have been leisurely if the dogs had cooperated. We still managed to enjoy it. We are going to miss going on morning walks with Dad once he goes back to work later this week. We are trying not to focus on that at the moment.

"Why won't Momma stop taking pictures

and get me my food."

Both Dad and Bubeaner are morning people and require a solid breakfast. A family breakfast has also become a daily ritual since Dad's been home. For Bubeaner it entails a (ADULT) portion of oatmeal (NOT baby cereal) with some type of buttered bread and a juice. Sometimes we add fruit. Although, mainly he finishes everything and then demands a portion of Momma's oatmeal too. Bubeaner really is a little piggy which is why we were so surprised he was not heavier. Bita did remind us he may have inherited his Bito and uncle Ivan's metabolism. Oh, lucky boy!

"I love my juice."

We all headed off to see Bruce, Dad's barber for the last 9 years, in the late morning. He also took care of Grandpa John while he lived with us. Bruce will give Bubeaner his first haircut once he finally needs one. Bubeaner enjoyed the little visit. He was intrigued by what Bruce was doing to Dad. He also felt comfortable enough to walk around while holding on to Momma. Dad envisions "boys time" in the future when they will both go get their hair cut and probably have lunch on their own.

Playing with the fountains at uncle Jeff's office.

We then had lunch with uncle Jeff and then stopped by his office since we were in that part of town. Bubeaner really enjoyed the water fountains in the lobby. We will have to keep an eye on him when he is older near the fountains but for now he enjoyed just watching the water.

"Momma don't make me work.

I am to young to be working in the office."

Late in the evening, before Bubeaner's dinner and bedtime, we headed off to the store with aunt Pau to look for an outfit. He did not appear to mind to much shopping with the girls.

"Oh brother! Another picture.
Does Momma not get tired of taking them?"

Eating at Home

One of the many errands from yesterday was getting Bubeaner a big boy stroller and high chair.  He had been using his Bumb0 for meal times.  And it has worked great until now since it can be placed anywhere.  However, Bubeaner is getting older, and we believe meal times are important family bonding times.  So he now has his own chair at the dining room table.  

Enjoying some cheeri0s 

while Momma assembles his highchair.

This by itself is a huge step for our family since most family meals are shared while catching up on the latest news and TV shows in our living room.  But we have made a commitment to actually use our table every time we eat together.  (Now, we may also need a commitment to actually eat every meal at home too, but we are taking small steps.)

First time using his new high chair.

Hmm, this does not bode well for meal times. 

We worried a little since Bubeaner did not enjoy sitting in his chair the first time.  In fact, he screamed and cried and fussed.  However, he soon calmed down.  There are few Bubeaner problems that food does not resolve or at least make better. 

And maybe it was the excitement of trying new things out but Bubeaner refused to take his afternoon nap.  This made for an entertaining dinner time.  He struggled and fought to stay awake while he ate.  He was unsuccessful.  And it was hilarious!  His head would sway from side to side; he would actually fall asleep while he was chewing; and, at one point, he nodded off into a spoon full of mashed veggies.  And, unfortunately for Bubeaner, it's all on tape!  Family dinner time is already a bonding experience.

Sleepy boy waiting for dinner.

Nodding off while still trying to eat.

What happened the moment we got up to clear the table.

Partying Bubeaner

We had quite an eventful day today.  It started early in the morning.  As we were getting ready we heard a "bump, bump, bump" sound coming from the kitchen.  Bubeaner discovered how to open and close the kitchen cabinets.  He was amused by the movement.  He could not reach anything in the cabinets.  He was not pleased when Momma removed him from the kitchen and denied him further access.  

"This doesn't look that interesting.

Why does Momma keep opening this cabinet?

There is no food here."

We spent the early afternoon running errands with Dad.  The rainy cold weather made added a degree of difficulty to our schedule.  We were so busy Bubeaner had to take his afternoon nap in his car seat.  We are so blessed that he will take naps in his car seat!  And he really needed to take his nap because he had a party today: his first ever party!  His friend Wyatt was celebrating his 1st birthday.  

Bubeaner and Wyatt Playing

We had been trying unsuccessfully to get these boys together for an entire year.  And they hit it off.  Bubeaner usually does not enjoy being around other children.  At Gymb0ree, he deals with other babies but does not interact with any of the kids.  Wyatt was different.  They were playing with the same toys without any problems.  And, not only were they sharing toys, but Bubeaner started following Wyatt's lead.  Wyatt is walking, and suddenly, Bubeaner decided to stand by himself without holding on to anything!  It only lasted 15-20 seconds but it was great.  And when he needed support, he held on to Wyatt.  It was adorable.  

All toys underwent a thorough inspection 

by our dedicated team of investigators

The only drawback to attending the party was that Bubeaner was too excited to sleep.  We did make an exception and allowed him to stay up a little longer.  

Exercising and Attitude

We are getting close to Dad returning to work at the office.  He spends most of this day working in his home office, but it's nice knowing he's at home.  And Bubeaner enjoys interrupting him by slamming his walker into the door to open it.  He has grown so close to his father.  He wants to be around him at all times doing what he's doing.  He will trail him up and down the hallway whenever Dad steps out of the office.  Bubeaner is going to really miss all this time together.

Giving Momma some 'tude.

This has become more common in recent days.

  We believe it's called "spoiled."

The new Bubeaner's gated play area (now know as Bubeaner's Corner) is working out great.  He enjoys spending time playing with his toys alone.  This allows Momma time to run around and clean/cook/fold laundry and all the many other things moms do during the day.  Momma and Dad do spend time in Bubeaner's Corner too playing with him and  working on crawling, walking and even learning our colors.  However, we have discovered, through careful observation, that most of the progress has occurred during his alone play time.  This is probably because no one is there to "help" him out so he has to figure out how to do it himself.  Watching him learn and discover new things fills us with wonder.  We can spend all day just observing him playing, sleeping, eating.  It's our favorite past time, next to loving on him.

Bubeaner standing up to reach the desired toy.

One of his favorite activities in his play area is to stand up on his own.  This is great, however, he does not have great balance control so he has had a few falls.  Thankfully, the foam is soft.  But we are going to have to cover the walls too since he has fallen forward a few times too.  He'll soon have his own padded room.  Oh, the things we do to our children.

"Why is the toy I want always at the bottom?"

Thursdays at Play

Bubeaner and Momma left a little later than usual to pick up aunt Raquel and cousin Nathanael for church group this morning.  It's harder to get up and going on time in the mornings now that Dad's at home.  He still gets up early, but not as early as when he leaves for the office.  In any case, group was a little trying today.  Bubeaner, though mobile in his walker and comfortable with all the ladies, wanted  Momma close at arm's reach, literally.  Momma spent a good deal of the morning on the floor where Bubeaner could reach out and touch her.  It was unclear why he was so needy, but Momma did not complain since Bubeaner requested hugs (he extends his arms out) several times.  Momma is a sucker for Bubeaner hugs.  

"How did Momma get the cheeri0s in here?"

And we had potluck lunch afterwards with all the grandmothers.  Even Bubeaner appreciated the long table set up with all kinds of delicious dishes and casseroles.  The grandmothers were thrilled that Bubeaner was also able to partake of the meal.  Of course, this led to a competition to see what the precious (and spoiled) baby chose to eat.  Momma stressed out a little not wanting to insult anyone; but Bubeaner graciously played up to the extra attention he was receiving and charmed everyone.  In the end, no hurt feelings and very happy tummies.

"Momma, you know you can't resist this face."

One of the latest challenges is how to keep Bubeaner entertained with educational/stimulating activities.  While Dad napped Momma gave Bubeaner several several plastic containers in different sizes with cheeri0s.  He enjoyed hearing the sounds made by the cheeri0s and liked watching them move as he moved the container.  He was also forced to exercise his finger dexterity while trying to open them.  Momma was pretty proud of finding this activity until she remembered watching zoologist doing similar things with polar bears to keep them entertained!  We are still determining if this a positive thing or not.

Climbing Mt. Dadsuvius.

Dad's not allowed to pick him up, but they have found other ways to play.

Bubeaner is too heavy, and too active, for Dad to safely pick him up and hold him during play time.  However, he discovered he can lay on the floor in Bubeaner's corner (the new gated play area) and interact with him without hurting himself or worrying about Bubeaner.  Bubeaner enjoyed climbing up and down Dad as well as showing Dad all his toys.  Dad also took this opportunity to show him the fist bump.  Apparently, it's a must-know for boys.