The Brennans

I just wanted to point out that I have a new found love for the following foods, probably thanks to pregnancy:

1. Bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwiches on white bread
2. Reduced fat oreos with cold milk
3. Christmas wreath pastry(an Ernhofer family tradition in which we partook yesterday)
4. Spaghetti
5. Tuna fish sandwiches with pickles
6. Sundried tomato salad dressing
7. 9 layer dip
8. Fresca
9. Ice water
10. Sharp cheddar cheese

I am grateful for food.

On Saturday, Gordon and I went to a baby birthing class! It was very informative (especially for Gordon). It also convinced me to try to have my baby au naturale. Epidurals have a lot of side effects and that makes me nervous, so hopefully, I can handle the pain. My mom did it, my sister did it, so I can too. My mom said its easy as long as I practice and prepare. We learned all about breathing and relaxation techniques. AND, my new favorite thing: counter pressure. My back has been hurting and when Gordon presses on my back it feels great. We also got a tour of the hospital which made me really excited to deliver. The maternity wing has been newly renovated and its so pretty and huge! The nurse giving the tour showed us the monitors that will be on my belly and asked for a volunteer to show everyone how they work. No one did at first, so I raised my hand. I lifted my shirt and sat on the bed in the room and the nurse was like "wow....no stretch marks!" and Gordon under his breath was like "thats right...:)". I guess he was proud. But yeah, the class made us very excited for the upcoming life changing events.

Since my belly is so huge, I have trouble keeping my shirts clean and Gordon finds this humerous. Yesterday, I counted 9 stains on my shirt...all from dinner. Spaghetti sauce and grape juice. Gordon took a picture. Enjoy.

I also attempted to make a homemade lemon merangue pie, however it didn't set. (Thanks a lot Alton Brown) I followed the recipe but it still didn't work. Oh well. We ate half of it.




We got our car seat and stroller in the mail last week after ordering it online! We love love love it! As you can see, we had a fun time putting them both together. It works great!

So, not much has happened since the last post, except for some severe back pain. I helped someone move from a wheelchair to a chair at work and I think it messed up my lower back. I've been taking tylenol to help and yesterday Gordon got me icy hot. I put it on and then realized I probably should have checked with the doctor first. Online, there are a lot of message boards that say its ok, but I'll probably call tomorrow just to double check. Today at church was pretty brutal- sitting for 3 hours is never a good thing, plus I forgot my usual granola bar and crackers. Silly me.

This coming week, Gordon will be working hard studying and finishing projects for school cause the last day of the semester is the 12th. (I wish that was my last day, too) He's been getting good grades up to this point, so hopefully they won't change/maybe get bumped up a little. He's also been thinking of different masters programs he'd want to take and then started thinking law school. At this point, who knows what the future will hold, but law school seems pretty ambitious. I told him that he should do it, but the thought of 3 more years of (harder) school kind of gave him a headache. We'll keep you all posted about future plans.

Christmas is coming! Surprisingly, Rexburg has not received any snow. Last year at this time, it had snowed over a foot by Halloween. (Thank you global warming) We're holding out on switching our all season tires to the studded ones...I don't know how long it'll last, but hopefully another week. We'll see. Coming up on the 13th, we'll be attending our baby class. I'm pretty excited, but Gordon was invited to go shooting that day, so its almost like i'm dragging him to it. I said that he didn't have to go and I'd find another labor coach and then he insisted on coming. I may have guilted him into it, but he'll thank me later.

So, I have gotten through the first two trimesters fine and dandy and am cruising through the third. I was extremely tired in the first, really energetic and great in the second and now back to tired (as you can probably tell by the photo...). My body needs to make up its mind.
About the gestational diabetes: all test results came back normal, so still no problems. Hooray. I was happy to hear that I didn't have diabetes, however I was feeling really grouchy and light headed the morning I had to fast. Each hour I returned to get blood drawn, the nurse would ask how I was feeling. I had the same response every time: "hungry, tired, dizzy, light headed". The nurse then said "yup, sounds about right". This exact conversation happened three times that morning, although the second time she said I could have a little water to 'hold me over' (like water holds anyone over....please, lady). I don't think Gordon liked me very much that morning because I was so grouchy. Luckily, for his sake, that didn't last long. At 11 am I had scrambled eggs, toast, and 2-6 pieces of pumpkin pie (Its unclear to me how much I had--I ate a lot of it....but am surprisingly not ashamed).
Today, I had this really weird feeling after dinner and realized it was a craving! I haven't really had any cravings until now. Lucky for Gordon it was chocolate! He was happy to oblige and bought me a big bag of peanut M&M's and caramel hershey kisses. So good! I ate so many I felt sick afterwards, but it was worth it.
Since this blog has sort of become all about me and the baby, I decided to post some photos of Gordon because he's an important part of our little family, too.

I made no-bake cookies and typically, I scoop them out small. Gordon wanted a big one, so that cookie he's eating is like 14 regular sized cookies in one.

We went out to eat for lunch at wingers and Gordon was hungry- I guess he gets hungry like pregnant women do.

Is it just me, or do I seem all of a sudden huge? Only 11 weeks to go, and believe me, I'm counting every minute of it. An interesting fact I just found out this morning about the baby- she's just like me: she likes Barry White. I was sitting on the couch checking my email on the laptop with Barry White playing. The speakers on the laptop were facing my belly and she started moving like crazy. I'm testing the theory again now, and she's moving again to "can't get enough of your love, babe". Its a good tune. MAN, this kid is going to be awesome once she pops out.

So, we went to the doctor's office today for yet another visit. I'm kind of in the groove of the prenatal care visits: weight, blood pressure, pee in a cup, listen to the heart beat. This week was a little different because I got tested for gestational diabetes, and anemia. I'm not anemic, but my glucose levels were 'elevated' which caused concern. To make sure that I have or don't have diabetes, I have to go back on Tuesday and do the same test, but I have to be fasting. So, I'll go in at 8am (fasting from midnight), get my finger pricked, drink the nasty drink, and come back every hour on the hour 3 more times to get my blood tested. So, all the tests will be done at 11am at which point I may just die of starvation. I realize that modern medicine is a great thing and I am thankful that there are tests to prevent problems in pregnancy, BUT, taking food from a pregnant woman is asking for trouble. Anyways, other then that, things are good. The baby's heart rate was right around 140, and my belly measurements are apparently right on the mark. The weird thing to think about is how much bigger she still needs to get. No idea where its all going to go because things already feel tight.

Highlight of the appointment/my life: We were talking to the doctor about procedures and policies of the hospital where I'll be delivering and I asked if Gordon would be able to cut the umbilical cord. Doctor's response: "Oh yeah...we can definitely do that. Heck if things are going well, once I have the head and the shoulders out, he could deliver the baby and put her up on your belly". Gordon's response: "uhhhh........look of fright on face changes to panic which changes to disgust.........I'll think about it?!" Its one of those moments where you wish you had a video camera because me explaining it just does not do justice. I think Gordon is thoroughly freaked out and will not be delivering the baby, but, who knows? We'll see.

Earlier in the week I signed up for some baby classes at the hospital. We'll be going mid december. On list of items to bring that they gave me were : "2 pillows, comfortable clothing, labor coach". Gordon has been downgraded to an 'item" I need to bring. I thought it was funny. He did not.

Coming up to my 30 week mark! Time flies! I love it! The faster time goes by, the sooner I get to see the baby! So exciting. Visitors welcome anytime before or after the baby comes!

To be continued about the diabetes testing....

We can't believe we've been married for a year! Time really flies! We sort of were able to celebrate...we went out to lunch...does that count? We actually had a pretty busy saturday. Gordon played football with the ward in the morning, we went out to eat, looked for baby deals, went grocery shopping, had a nap, went to the ward thanksgiving dinner, came home, made cinnamon rolls, and watched man vs. wild. The only bad thing was that Gordon bent some fingers the wrong way and now has puffy hurting fingers- so bad that he can't get his ring off. He also pulled a hamstring playing football, so he's limping around now. Other then that, a great day.

When I went to Boise for some training with work, my boss and I went out to eat a lot. One evening, we went to Cheesecake Factory and my boss ordered a White Chicken Chili. It looked really good- basically chili made with chicken and no tomatoes- it was in a creamy white sauce. So, I attempted to make my own version of this dish and Gordon just about went head over heels for it. He especially loved the leftovers for lunch today! Anyways, here is the recipe (approximately) and you all should try it because it was really really good!

1 T oil
2 T butter
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 c mushrooms, diced
1/2 - 1 lb diced chicken breast
1/4 c flour
3 chicken boullion cubes
2 1/2 c water
1/2 c milk
1/4 t chili powder
1/2 t cumin
1/4 t cayenne
1/2 t salt
1/2 t pepper
1/8 t cinnamon
1 can black beans, drained & rinsed
1 can white or kidney beans, drained & rinsed
1 c frozen corn

Cook onion and garlic in oil and butter until slightly browned. Add cubed chicken pieces and cook thoroughly. Add mushrooms and flour. Cook about 2 minutes to soften onion and cook out raw flour taste. Add in boullion cubes, all spices, and water using a whisk to avoid lumps. Sauce will thicken. Add milk in to desired consistency. Add beans and corn. Serve over rice. Some toppings that we liked include: tortilla chips, lime juice, avocado, fresh tomato, cheddar cheese, cilantro, and sour cream.

I happened to have rice pilaf in the fridge from a previous meal and that seemed to make a big difference in flavor, so here is a quick recipe to flavor rice- Instead of adding water to cold rice on the stove top, melt 1-2 T butter and cook the rice for about 3 minutes. Add in desired amount chicken stock, salt, pepper, and 2 bay leaves. (If your rice package calls for 2 cups of water, just substitute the same amount of chicken stock)

Let me know if you try it out and like it!

So, its been a while since the last time we blogged, so this is going to be another long entry updating everyone on what is going on. I think this photo is funny because you can see this line across my belly from the maternity skirt I'm wearing. Its a comfortable skirt, it just goes up really high on the belly. Haha....oh well. Gordon and I have been up to the same old daily grind of life. I recently cut back on hours at work. I work on average 6 hours a day now which is wonderful! I love it and from that extra hour of sleep, I seem to have 200% more energy. Its incredible what a little sleep will do. I really should take advantage of it while I can, or so I hear....

27 weeks and counting...


Gordon finished midterms and has been really doing a great job at raising his GPA. He is religiously looking for internships everywhere and anywhere. The last two weeks, he's had three internship interviews. I don't think he wants to take any of them (not that they've been offered to him). Some of the companies seem like they would be a good fit, but then at the interview it turns out being really lame. Oh well. We're wanting him to get one during the fall of 2009. Because of the 7 week break between summer and winter semesters, he could potentially do a 6 month internship. Hopefully, there's a company out there that will see him for his potential and want to hire him just because of that. We think something good will come our way, we just have to be patient.

We are so excited for another thanksgiving! We love turkey! David and Gisela are going to be coming to rexburg for the break, and we get time off of work and school! Also, we are totally going to hit up all the sales after thanksgiving. We are hoping to score some cheap (yet good quality) baby items, namely the 'travel system' (car seat and stroller set), crib sheets, and a rocking chair. We have specific brands and sets in mind, we just need them to go on sale! Oh, and since the last blog, I have gotten more baby clothes, so don't worry.

The house we moved into. Its at the end of a cul-de-sac. We like it!

People have been wanting to see photos of the new house we moved into a few months ago, so here it is! Its a 5 bedroom, 3 bath home in a newer development of houses off of Pioneer Road. We do share it with another couple, but we like them a lot and we really only see them on the weekends. We sort of started a tradition with Emily and Steve Gatewood (our neighbors). Basically, we alternate making Sunday dinner each week as well as playing hearts or golf afterwards. Its really fun. Emily is a nurse and Steve is still a student. Kind of similar to our situation. We live in the beautifully finished basement of this home. Down here, we have 3 bedrooms, a full bath, a huge main living room and a storage room. I was concerned at living here at first because I'm not that big of a fan of dark cold basements. However, this being a brand new home, there are full windows, bringing in a lot of light and the central heat has been keeping us warm! (And even if it doesn't, we have a little space heater that can do the trick) We also have access to a washer and dryer as well as a 3 car garage (which is what convinced me to make the move). We share the kitchen and thats pretty much it. We are really liking it here and will be sad to move out once this house sells. Until then, we are living it up. Its going to be really hard to move back into a tiny apartment after this!

Our cute kitchen with, yes, granite counter tops (which I have come to adore)

Downstairs in our huge living room- so big, it looks empty with our stuff!

The other side of our living room. The doorway to the left leads to our bedroom.

Gordon and my first year anniversary is coming up! We can't believe its been a year and we've already done so much! The worries and concerns that were bogging us down as newlyweds have passed and we have a new batch of fish to fry, and a baby on the way! Time really flies when you're having fun. We have decided that our gifts would be ring upgrades. Gordon is getting a tungsten ring and I am going to get a diamond wedding band to go with my engagement ring. We have looked around and finally found some great deals, so we don't have to feel too guilty in buying things for ourselves. I'm excited to add a little more sparkle to my finger. As my mother says: "your diamonds sparkle as much as Gordon loves you". I agree with this, and when I quoted her at the jewelery store as we were looking at prices, Gordon kind of chuckled and nodded his head. We are grateful to have been married in the temple and are especially excited to be having a little addition to our family in February. Life has been challenging, but so incredibly joyful and uplifting. If there is one thing we have learned through this year of trials and blessings, the one thing that always rings true is that the Lord will provide. We hope that as the next few holidays come, that you all are as happy as we are. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers. We love you all.

Hello everyone. I feel like its been a while since there has been an update on what is going on with us, so this should catch everyone up. Lately, Shayna (my sister) has been asking what baby stuff I had and didn't have and so everyone knows- I don't have a lot. I have a changing pad, 2 outfits, a blanket (thank you thank you, Marilyn!!) and a snuggli (that shayna got me). Don't worry...I will be purchasing more.....I am not a horrible mother.

We had a doctor's appointment earlier this week. The baby has been moving a lot and apparently that's normal. Regular everyday activities are slowly becoming increasingly uncomfortable. For instance, today I got my hair highlighted and cut. Sitting there for 3ish hours was soooooo uncomfortable. Also, I barley fit into my jeans anymore, so I may just have to give into the maternity jeans. Bending over may start becoming a hazard too because I am top heavy thanks to my ever growing daughter. Randomly, I will grab Gordon's hand to feel her kick and move. Its fun. Anyways, at the appointment, the baby's heart rate was at 157 which is normal and good. The doctor also said I've only gained 16 pounds which I was extremely happy about (considering I though I had gained 25). From this, I've calculated that I've gained .6 pounds per week. This means that if I continue on this track, I will only gain 26 pounds with the pregnancy. Time will only tell. I also found out that my blood type is O-negative. Because Gordon is A-positive, there is a chance that the baby has blood with a positive rH. If our bloods were to mix in any way, my red blood cells would attack the baby. This all basically means that I need to get rhogam shots to prevent this from happening. No big deal and even if it were, I'm pretty sure the baby is worth it. My next appointment is at the end of November, so stay tuned for new baby news.

Gordon has a job! He works for the university at night cleaning carpets and upholstered furniture. He took a job so we could have more money, but also so I could cut back on work. The hours are really tiring me out, so this was our solution. This job could potential lead to a supervisory position which has a higher hourly wage as well as insurance. We are keeping our fingers crossed, but no matter what happens, we know the lord will provide.

Just tonight, Shayna, Tony and their kids came over to make Halloween spider cookies. We took sugar cookie dough, rolled it in chocolate sprinkles, added mini M&M's for eyes and pretzel sticks for legs and then baked them. They were really fun to make and really good. After a while, Shayna and Gordon got creative and tried to bake spiders that were actually standing on their pretzel legs. We baked them and it didn't quite work...but they were still tasty! Anyways, I think that's all for now. Of course there will be more to come in the near future. Keep reading and blogging-we love reading up on our family and friends!

After much debate, we are happy to announce that there is a little baby girl growing in Lauren's belly. We are so thrilled and excited. Here are a few photos from yesterday's visit. The doctor said that according to all the measurements, the baby looks wonderful and so far there are no problems. Lauren got some blood drawn for a quad scan (which tests for trisomy 18, downs syndrome, etc.) We should be getting the results from that in a week, but so far so good.

Here's the infamous crotch shot in all of its glory. Its definitely a girl.

Here's a profile of the little one. You can see her hand that is close to her mouth like she's about to suck her thumb. She will take after her dad.

You can see the long spine across this photo and the femur at the base of the spine.

Since Shayna and I live in Rexburg, and our family is hundreds of miles away, they decided to come visit us and drive from Ottawa! We had a pretty awesome time while they were here! We went out to eat, we travelled to mesa falls, we learned new card games, and had one huge birthday party for Gordon, my mom, Shayna, Tony, Keegan, and Zoe. Lots of birthdays in the summer months! We definately were sad to see them go. Hopefully, my permanent residency will be completely processed by the time Christmas rolls around so we can travel to Ottawa to visit everyone there before I have the baby. We'll see! Cross your fingers.









Mesa Falls

Gordon and I attended his family reunion in Oregon and I am finally getting some photos up from that. It was great seeing relatives I've never met before! They all knew who I was, but I had no idea who they were, although, by the end of the weekend, the names were coming to me. There was a huge family tree with everyone's pictures on it and that helped a lot. Also, to break the news that I was pregnant, we just taped the ultrasound photo to the family tree. No one really noticed it at first, but when one person knew, EVERYONE knew. We are sneaky! Anyways, we had a lot of fun and look forward to the next Brennan family reunion, hopefully in California! (cross your fingers!)

From left to right, Lauren (who married Gordon), Gisela (who married David), Emily, Tammy (who married Mark), Tamara. We are all Brennans, or previously Brennans.



Eating leftovers from the past 3 days....gotta love pizza, enchiladas, pasta, grilled chicken, salad, and a whole lot of soda pop.





I helped Rylan get suited up for the beach. What a cutie.

Saige, Ambria and Rylan in the back of Mark's Honda before we went to the beach. Cute girls!

* We would have taken more photos, except for the fact that we forgot our camera 2 of 3 days...haha...whoops!

Yes, the title is true! Gordon and I are going to be having a baby. We found out about 2 1/2 weeks ago and only went to the doctor's office today for the 1st ultrasound. From what they can tell, everything is going swimmingly. I am almost 8 weeks and my due date is February 8th. If it is born on my Dad's birthday then the middle name will be Bruce, no matter if its a boy or girl. Surprised? Just as I thought. Anyways, the Women's Clinic is pretty nice and they gave us a DVD of the ultrasound which I thought was pretty cool. I couldn't get the actual DVD on here, so I took video of the video (if that makes sense). I go back at the end of July for my 13 1/2 week visit and I'll hear the heartbeat! Exciting!