The Happy Hansens

8 Months Old

2012-02-07T21:09:00.002-06:00

Can you believe Korie is 8 months old?! My sweet little girl isn't so little anymore. :( It is so fun watching her grow up, change, and learn, but I'm so sad that it's flying by so fast! Pretty soon, I will blink and she'll be a year old, then in kindergarten, then in high school and off to college. In the meantime, we are enjoying every second of her growing up! Korie is such a good, happy baby. She weighs 21 lbs, is rolling and army crawling all over the house, getting up on her hands and knees and rocking (she'll be crawling soon!), babbling constantly, including mama (although I'm not sure she always uses it correctly), clicking her tongue, and is getting ready to cut her two front bottom teeth...they are right at the surface! She loves music, books, chasing Piper, and playing with her toys. She is so tickelish, and she loves to laugh and squeal! Happy 8 Months, precious girl...we love you right up to the moon and back!

Korie's 7th Month

2012-02-01T21:11:00.006-06:00

Oops, I've been slacking with posting pictures of Korie this month...sorry! Here are some pictures from Korie's 7 month!

A Day at Livie's

2012-02-01T17:44:00.004-06:00

A couple of weeks ago, we took a trip down to Kansas for the weekend. Mommy and Daddy went to the KU vs ISU basketball game, while Korie spent the day at Livia's house. Mommy and Daddy had a great time at the game...it had been several years since Mommy's last trip to Allen Fieldhouse, and it brought back a lot of fun memories from college! Korie was kind of fussy for Uncle Roz and Aunt Lindsay, but apparently Uncle Roz is the Baby Whisperer. He got Korie to calm down and fall asleep, and the only way she would take her bottle is if Uncle Roz gave it to her while sitting in her Bumbo seat. It looks like a baby calf taking a bottle on the farm! :) Korie and Livie had a great time playing together!

Celebrating Mommy & Daddy

2012-02-01T17:35:00.004-06:00

Earlier this month, we went out to dinner to celebrate our 5th anniversary. Korie was such a good girl, as always, while Mommy and Daddy enjoyed some yummy sushi!

Picky Piggy

2012-01-19T15:46:00.002-06:00

Korie is such a good little eater...she can be quite the piggy at times! However, she is very picky. She loves avocados, and she really likes squash and sweet potatoes. The list of things she doesn't like is longer than what she does like: peas, apples, pears, and "puffs." We tried some rice puffs shortly after Christmas. She loves to play with them, but when she actually gets one into her mouth, she HATES them. She even gagged on one and threw up everwhere. Needless to say, we decided not to try them again for a while! When we have given her food she doesn't like, she will go on a hunger strike and not eat any solids for two days. I wonder where she got her stubborn streak. :) Mommy has started disguising her fruits in her rice cereal, she now she eats them just fine. I have been making her baby food, and I'm not real sure what to try next. Mommy might have to get creative!!!

Christmas Day

2012-01-06T21:29:00.007-06:00

It was so exciting and amazing to wake up in our home as a family on Christmas morning! Obviously, Korie is too young to "get" what Christmas, and Christmas morning, is all about, but she was excited to see all the presents under the tree and to explore. She loved all her toys, the bows of course, and her container of Puffs...she wouldn't let them go! After opening presents, we went to Walnut for brunch at the Tooley house, Hansen/Kixmiller Christmas in Walnut, then finished the day with Putnam/Paulsen Christmas in Council Bluffs. Korie had a wonderful first Christmas, and I can't wait to do it all over again next year!

Hansen Christmas

2012-01-06T20:53:00.006-06:00

On Christmas Eve day, we had Hansen Christmas in Walnut. As usual, this spoiled littleg irl got a lot of great presents! After lunch and opening presents, the "big kids" played our usual game of Phase 10, and Korie had a great time with her cousins Kaitlyn, Preston, and Kamryn. That evening, we headed home and to the 7:00 pm Christmas Eve candlelight service at our church. It was a beautiful atmosphere, especially since God has blessed us so richly, in so many ways! Korie was very well-behaved, and loved all the music, as always. :)

7 Months Old!

2012-01-03T22:35:00.003-06:00

Can you believe this sweet little girl is 7 months old?! I know I say it every month, but time is really flying by...it seems like each month goes by faster than the last. Korie is so sweet, smart, and funny! We love you precious!

Five Years!

2012-01-02T15:43:00.003-06:00

On December 31st, we celebrated our five year anniversary! It seems like only yesterday that we were battling the big snowstorm to get to the church. It was a very memorable day! These past five years have flown by, and our life together as a couple, and now a family, gets better and better with each passing year. Happy 5th Anniversary...here's to many more years of laughter and love!

Vote for Korie!

2011-12-28T21:10:00.001-06:00

Hey everyone! Please click the link below and vote for Korie in the Cutest Kid contest. It says you can only vote once per computer, but I'm not sure if that's per day or overall. But please, vote from as many computers and/or phones as possible! ;) Thanks!

http://creativeimagesandco.com/blog/?p=3969

Korie's First (of many) Christmas!

2011-12-23T09:05:00.004-06:00

Here are a few pictures of Korie's first Christmas celebration! We had Putnam Christmas at Mom and Dad's two weeks ago, and Korie had a great time! She got to spend lots of time with Namma and Papa, as well as her cousin Livie, and her aunts and uncles. Namma even got Liv and Korie some Christmas jammies and we did a litte "photo shoot" of the girls in them...adorable! Korie also helped open her very first Christmas presents! So excited for her first holiday season!

6 Month Stats

2011-12-17T19:49:00.006-06:00

Korie had her 6 month appointment with Dr. Loucks this past week. Dr. Loucks and her nurse were both impressed with the milestones Korie has met so far. She is able to sit on her own (without support) for extended periods of time, she transfers objects easily from one hand to the other, her pincer grasp is developing, she is army-crawling/scooting on her tummy (look out world!), and she recognizes her name. Korie loves music and singing, laughing at Mommy, Daddy, and Piper, reading books, playing, and jumping. She is getting so big: 19 lbs (92nd percentile) and 28 inches long (98th percentile)! And once again, she took her shots, including the flu shot, like a champ! We are so proud of our big, bright, beautiful baby girl!

Baby Math

2011-12-17T19:44:00.002-06:00

Baby math is pretty easy for Korie. 50% Dad + 50% Mom = 100% Me! :)

Food, glorious food!

2011-12-13T21:16:00.005-06:00

A week before Korie turned 6 months, we started solid foods! We started with rice cereal, and as you can see, Korie wasn't so sure at first. Her first couple of "bites" she made some faces and shuttered, but by the end, she really liked it! With each passing day, she loves it more and more! Mommy has decided to make Korie's baby food (yes, seriously!) and it's gone really well! Korie's first vegetable was homemade sweet potatoes, and she loved them! This week, we started avocados, and she loves them as well. Next week, will try something new again. As you can tell by the pictures, she is loving food!

Happy Holidays

2011-12-07T15:47:00.003-06:00

The Hansen family Christmas card: Coming soon to a mailbox near you! :) Happy Holidays everyone!

6 Months Already?!

2011-12-04T22:15:00.002-06:00

Korie is 6 months old...can you believe it?! This Mommy can't! The first half of her first year has gone by so fast. She is such a big, bright, beautiful girl! Happy half birthday, my love...Daddy and I love you all the way up to the moon and back!

So Much to be Thankful For!

2011-12-03T14:10:00.006-06:00

The holiday season is here! We are so excited for Korie's first Christmas! She had a great first Thanksgiving. The four of us went to Korie's Great Grandma Paulsen's for lunch with the Putnam/Paulsen side of the family. Mommy left for work (unfortunately), and Daddy, Korie, and Piper headed to Walnut to Grandma Leta and Grandpa Donnie's for dinner with the Hansen/Kixmiller side. She had a day full of playing with cousins Livia, Kaitlyn, Preston, and Kamryn. As we look back on Thanksgiving and look forward to Christmas, we are so thankful for our big, beautiful, happy, healthy, precious baby girl Korie! We love you little turkey! :)

Busy Little 5 Month Old!

2011-11-19T22:12:00.007-06:00

Our little peanut sure is a busy little baby! Now that she is 5 months old, she is very active! She loves music, reading books, sitting up, playing with Piper, jumping in her exersaucer, mimicking sounds and faces (especially sticking out her tongue), chewing on anything she can get her hands on, and bathtime in her new duckie bathtub. We are so lucky to have such a healthy, active, beautiful perfect little girl!

Stationery card

2011-11-19T12:51:00.001-06:00

A Wonderful Year Christmas Card

Make a statement with personalized Christmas cards at Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Korie Paige is 5 months old!

2011-11-09T14:11:00.002-06:00

I know I say this every month, but where has the time gone?! Our sweet baby girl is 5 months old already! She is so big, smart, beautiful, and sweet. She loves music, laughing, playing with Piper, going for walks, jumping in her exersaucer, and reading books. She is continuing to grow...she has officially grown out of her 6 months clothes, and is now in 9 month or 6-12 month clothes. She is the light of our lives!!!

Happy Howl-o-ween

2011-11-05T22:30:00.006-05:00

Korie (and Piper) had a great Halloween! Korie wasn't too impressed with her first Halloween...she was pretty apathetic about the whole thing. But she did so well in her costume, helping Mommy answer the door for trick or treaters. We got a lot of "Oh, he's so cute!" Don't people know little girls can be monkeys too?! Woof, on the other hand, did NOT like her costume. But our little monkey and chicken sure were cute!

Korie's 4 month photo shoot

2011-11-03T09:51:00.003-05:00

Here are the pictures we ordered from Korie's 4 month photo session with Creative Images by Tammy. Korie wasn't very cooperative that day...she wouldn't smile at the camera, and it was very difficult to keep her hands out of her mouth. So we were very happy to get several good pictures! I have the rights to all these pictures, so if you want a copy made, please let me know! Enjoy!!! (Sorry to those of you who hate headbands!)

More of Korie in October

2011-11-02T22:28:00.006-05:00

Pictures from October

2011-10-26T20:34:00.005-05:00

Sneak peek!

2011-10-19T23:38:00.003-05:00

Here is a sneak peek of Korie's 4 month pictures. Can't wait to see the rest!!!

http://creativeimagesandco.com/blog/?p=3435

Best birthday ever!

2011-10-18T11:16:00.002-05:00

So, you may not think turning 32 is that exciting, and normally, I'd agree with you. However, when it's your first birthday as a Mom, and you get to spend it with these two (or three), you just can't beat it! Thank you Brent, Korie, and Piper...it was definitely my best birthday yet!

Rock Chalk Little Jayhawk!

2011-10-11T11:29:00.004-05:00

Korie made her first trip to Lawrence for game day with Mommy a couple of weeks ago. Mommy debated taking Korie to the game with her, but decided against it, so Korie spent the morning/afternoon with Grandma Lisa, Grandpa Dave, and her cousin Livia while Mommy went to the game and had fun with her friends! But, that didn't stop Mommy from getting her all dressed up in her KU finest! :) Rock Chalk Korie Paige!

4 Month Photo Shoot

2011-10-11T11:22:00.003-05:00

4 Months Old!

2011-10-08T20:17:00.003-05:00

Our sweet baby girl is 4 months old...where has the time gone?! She is growing and changing so much! At her 4 month appointment, she weighed 16 lbs 5 oz (94th percentile) and is 26.25 inches long (98th percentile), and she took her shots like a champ. She is doing all kinds of fun things now too...she is so alert and attentive! Some of the things Korie loves and is doing these days: rolling over all the time, scooting while on her tummy, reaching out and grabbing everything (Daddy's glasses, Mommy's hair, nose, and mouth, her toys, Piper), squealing and laughing at Mommy and Daddy, babbling constantly, sitting and standing up with support, chewing on her lovie, going for walks, reading books and looking at pictures, shaking her rattle, and looking at the pretty baby in the mirror. Our precious little baby is growing up!

More from Korie's 3rd month

2011-10-05T12:45:00.006-05:00

Jayhawks vs Cyclones

2011-09-28T16:35:00.004-05:00

ISU or KU? That is the question. If Mommy has it her way, Korie will be a little Jayhawk, but obviously Daddy has something to say about it! For now, she will be a fan of both. Rock Chalk Jayhawk, and Go State!

If there's one thing we can agree on, it's the Chiefs! Go KC!

Sleeping well and waking up happy!

2011-09-19T22:41:00.003-05:00

Korie has turned into such a good little sleeper. She gets her last feeding of the day around 9:00pm, and we put her down to sleep between 9:30 and 10:00. She sleeps until 8:30 or 9 pretty much every morning...there have been a few times I've had to wake her up at 9:30 to eat! And she always wakes up happy and smiling. Now that she rolls over, she never stays on her back. Mommy always finds her on her side or tummy, with an arm or leg stuck in her crib occasionally! Now if only she would start napping as well as she sleeps at night...oh well, you can't win them all! :)

Uncle Tyler and Aunt Courtney's wedding

2011-09-19T19:52:00.005-05:00

On September 4, 2011, Tyler and Courtney became the new Mr. and Mrs. Putnam! At the reception, Livia was a dancing fool, while Korie slept through most of the night. Here are a few pictures from their big day! Congrats Toogie and Court!

Daddy and his girl

2011-09-15T11:35:00.002-05:00

Found this blog on Facebook, and it brings tears to my eyes thinking about Korie and Brent! Daughters and Daddies definitely share a special relationship...I know my dad and I do, and so will my beautiful girl and wonderful husband!

http://www.fromdatestodiapers.com/50-rules-for-dads-of-daughters

And a few more...

2011-09-11T12:49:00.004-05:00

Pictures from the last month

2011-09-11T12:25:00.005-05:00

Rollin, rollin, rollin...

2011-09-09T16:27:00.001-05:00

Korie has learned how to roll over! She did it for the first time when she was exactly 12 weeks old! Prior to that, she had rolled onto her side, but never all the way over. She now consistently rolls from her back to her tummy, and tends to sleep on her side a lot. Here are some progressive pictures of the rollover! Such a big girl!

3 months!

2011-09-07T20:25:00.004-05:00

Korie Paige is 3 months old! Where did the time go?! Our little girl is growing up fast! She started rolling over at 12 weeks old, and she's very proud of herself. She is so alert and attentive, and she is starting to "talk" more and is very interactive...I think we have a smart little girl on our hands!

More pictures

2011-08-17T22:10:00.005-05:00

Some more pictures from the 2nd month with our sweet girl Korie!

Prayers needed!

2011-08-15T12:55:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone. I'd like to ask you all for some help. I have a friend from high school, Joni (Carrick) Gordon, who's daughter needs your thoughts and prayers. Her little girl Livia was born three weeks ago, and she has been having some health problems. She's been in the NICU on a ventilator since she was born with heart and lung issues. She is making some small improvements but still has a ways to go before she can go home to join her parents Joni and Aaron, big sister Emma, and big brother Jaxon. Please pray for Livia to get better and for strength for her family! Her website is below if you'd like to follow Livia's progress. Thanks everyone!

caringbridge.org/visit/liviacarrickgordon

Pictures of Korie's 2nd month

2011-08-08T23:16:00.006-05:00

Here are some pictures from Korie's 2nd month. She is growing up so fast and developing such a sweet little personality! Love her sooo much!

Two months old!

2011-08-04T23:48:00.003-05:00

Korie Paige is 2 months old! My goodness, time is flying by and she is growing up too fast! Here are her 2 month stats from her doctor's appointment: 13 lbs 6 oz, 24 inches long (both 96th percentile!), head circumference 80th percentile, and 3 shots (she cried for a few minutes then was fine!). She was deemed "perfect" by Dr. Loucks...yes she is!!! Some things Korie is doing at two months old: smiling all the time, cooing and "talking", trying to mimic sounds and faces, holding up her head, trying to stand when being held up, scooting during tummy time, and sleeipng for almost 8 hours most nights. What a big girl! We love you sooo much sweetpea!

1st Trip to the Lake!

2011-07-22T10:53:00.010-05:00

Earlier this month, Korie made her first trip to the lake! We were there for three weekends in a row in July, which was fun, but kind of exhausting...there's a lot of stuff to haul back and forth for a little baby. I am so excited that Korie will spend lots of summer weekends at the lake, just like I did as a kid. And I'm sure she'll have just as much fun and fond memories as me too! Here are a some pictures from the lake:

Happy 4th of July (looking a lot like Daddy!)

1st walk in her stroller on the 4th of July

Hanging out on the deck with Grandpa and Grandma

Poor Piper still hates the water but Daddy makes her swim anyway!

Livia wanted to hold her cousin

All dressed up for Aunt Courtney's shower

The Putnam girls at Courtney's shower

Wide awake, looking out the window at the lake

Napping with Aunt Lindsay

Finally meeting Uncle Tyler and Aunt Courtney

Mommy's cuddlebug

Happy girl!

Going for a walk with Daddy (normally she loves the Baby Bjorn!)

Korie's first boatride!

Livie's new pool

Hanging with Daddy (the hat is still a little big)

Fun in Livie's old bouncy seat

Cousins! I love this picture!

Sisterly Love

2011-07-21T20:09:00.002-05:00

Here are a few pictures of our nieces Kaitlyn and Kamryn from their dance recital photo shoot. Aren't they adorable?!

More pics of Korie's 1st month

2011-07-17T23:47:00.004-05:00

A little late, but...

2011-07-14T12:27:00.001-05:00

It's a week and half late, but, Korie is one month old! Time is flying by so fast already!

Birth announcement

2011-07-05T16:36:00.001-05:00

Here is a copy of Korie's birth announcements...aren't they cute?! I just received them in the mail today, so once I get around to addressing them and getting stamps, you should all be receiving them...hopefully sooner rather than later! ;)

Korie's many admirers

2011-06-29T14:23:00.004-05:00

Here are some pictures of Korie with her many visitors so far!

Mommy's friend Jenny
Mommy's friend Alisa

Mommy's friend Nikki

Meeting Great-Grandma Kixmiller

Meeting Great-Grandma Hansen

Aunt Lindsay and cousin Livia

With Aunt Michelle and cousins Kaitlyn & Kamryn at Daddy's game

Uncle Zach

Great-Grandma Paulsen

Grandpa Dave, Grandma Lisa, and cousin Liv

Grandpa Donnie

Grandma Leta

Mommy's cousin Jason

Uncle Darrin

Mommy's best friend Lindsey

Precious Girl

2011-06-29T11:25:00.004-05:00

Here are our favorites from Korie's newborn session that we ordered. We were sooo happy with how they turned out! The photographer (Tammy Krummel at Creative Images by Tammy in Avoca) was great...she was so good with Korie and she takes amazing pictures! We have the rights to these eight pictures, so if anyone wants a copy, let me know and I can print some for you! Enjoy!

A model is born!

2011-06-17T15:25:00.002-05:00

Korie had her newborn pictures done this past Saturday, and as Grandma Paulsen put it, a model is born! ;) They were taken by Creative Images by Tammy in Avoca, and she did an AMAZING job! It's going to be difficult for us to pick which ones we want! Here is the link to her pictures. Just click on the album "Korie" and the access code is "knew." Enjoy!

http://creativeimagesbytammy.com/pc/index.php

Life As We Know It

2011-06-13T21:24:00.004-05:00

Life as we know it has changed at the Hansen house, but all for the better! We have gotten settled in at home, but it's not easy to get a "routine" down...par for the course with a newborn I'm sure. Korie definitely rules the roost; she determines when I eat, sleep, and even go to the bathroom! We have had a couple of rough days/nights, but overall, it's been absolutely amazing!!! We love this little girl so much already! Here are a few pictures from Life at Home!

Daddy and his girls:

Korie's only birthmark, stork bites on her eyelid:

Aren't they precious?!

Long legs:

First bath at home; she hated it!

Our little monster pooped in her towel after her bath:

Sleeping beauty:

1st doctor's appointment with Dr. Loucks:

Stretching out and relaxing:

Milk coma in her bouncy seat, the only place she'll sleep:

Newborn pictures

2011-06-11T00:41:00.002-05:00

The hospital does newborn pictures, which of course, are ridiculously expensive and they want you to buy, which of course, we aren't! They took them the day after Korie was born, and she was NOT a fan! The photographer only got a few pictures of her before she had a complete meltdown, but some of them turned out pretty cute! Here is the link for the pictures; the password is Hansen.

http://www.photoreflect.com/store/thumbpage.aspx?eid=1RBR027O

She's here!!!

2011-06-10T23:16:00.007-05:00

Welcome to the world Korie Paige Hansen! Our beautiful little miracle arrived on Friday June 3rd at 5:37 pm, 8 lbs 11 oz, 21 inches long. She is healthy, beautiful, and perfect!!! As of today, she is one week old, and we are soooo in love with her! Here are a few pictures, and I will try to post more when Little Miss allows me to! ;)

4 More Weeks...or less!

2011-05-10T21:30:00.004-05:00

36 weeks! That means 4 weeks to go...or does it?! I had my 36 week appointment today, which includes the first "cervix check"...boy are those fun! I am happy to report that we have made some progress already. I am currently dilated 1 cm and 70% effaced, which I'm told is pretty good for a first time Mom! My doctor said, as thin as my cervix is, I will probably go early, and my labor could be fast! That would be nice; I've been hoping that since I've been so sick through most of my pregnancy that God would even it out for me and let me have a halfway decent labor! Another piece of good news: Baby Girl doesn't seem to be huge! While she is growing, she is measuring 1 week behind...glad to know she isn't bigger than she should be! I may look and feel huge, but apparently I'm not, which is nice to know. So, to sum it up, it could be any day now, or it could be several more weeks! I guess that's up to God and BGH! ;) Good thing we have the room ready...now we just need to prepare mentally! Here are a few pictures of the 36 week belly and Baby Girl's room!

34 weeks

2011-04-29T00:06:00.002-05:00

Here are a few pictures from this week: 34 weeks! I'm feeling pretty huge these days, and it's only going to get worse. But it's all worth it! According to my doctor, I'm measuring right on schedule, so here's hoping BGH isn't huge! ;) A little over a month and we get to meet this precious little miracle...I can't wait!!!

Showers galore!

2011-04-28T23:48:00.004-05:00

We are so lucky to have such amazing friends and family. Everyone was so excited that we are finally having a baby that so many people wanted to throw us a shower! We had five showers, given by: my best friend Lindsey, Brent's friend from high school Dina, my awesome co-worker/friend Nikki, my sister Lindsay, and Brent's sister Michelle. Thanks to everyone who came to one (or more) of the showers and all the gifts for Baby Girl Hansen...she's not even here yet and she is so loved already! Here are a few pictures:

Shower #2 in Walnut at 32 weeks (Thanks Dina!)

Shower #3 with my awesome co-workers at 33 weeks (thanks Nikki!)

Shower #4 in Lawrence with friends and family (thanks Lindsay and Roz!)

Shower #5 in Walnut with the Hansens at 34 weeks (thanks Michelle and Kaitlyn!)

Getting ready

2011-04-18T00:06:00.001-05:00

June 7th will be here before we know it! We are hard at work getting the house ready and trying to get Baby Girl's room ready and organized...it is VERY overwhelming! So much to do, so little time! However, her crib is ready (even though the rest of her room isn't yet)! And here are a couple of bare belly pictures from almost two weeks ago...hope they don't scare anyone! :)

Shake that Belly...

2011-04-05T00:02:00.002-05:00

...like a bowl full of jelly! This little girl does that constantly for me! She is so active. I can sit and watch/feel my belly move, bouncing and shifting, all day and smile! It is literally the most amazing feeling in the world, and I will miss it once she is born. Here is a video I took of my belly moving last week (30 and a half weeks):

Saturday night (two days ago), I felt and saw a HUGE shift in my belly...I wish I would've been recording it! It was almost painful, but so cool to see! Prior to the shift, Baby Girl was lying in a transverse position (sideways, with her head on my right side and her butt on my left). After the shift, my doctor confirmed today that she is now head down, ready to make her descent into the world! Let's just hope she holds off for a least another 6 weeks or longer! ;)

Showered with love!

2011-04-03T13:04:00.004-05:00

Last weekend, I had my first ever baby shower! It was thrown by my best friend Lindsey at Whispering Hills Vineyard. The theme was nesting/birds, and it was adorable! It was great to see so many wonderful family and friends, and Baby Girl is already so spoiled! Thanks to you all, especially my BFF Lindsey! For so long, I wondered if I would ever be lucky enough to experience this...and now, it's really happening. 30 weeks and counting. I am feeling so blessed!!!

Hello 3rd Trimester!

2011-03-07T13:22:00.002-06:00

27 weeks: that means 3rd trimester! Uncharted territory! Two thirds of the way there...we are on the downhill slide now! Can't wait for June to get here so we can meet this busy, active little girl!

"Babymoon" in Mexico

2011-02-22T20:14:00.006-06:00

Brent and I made our annual trip to Mexico recently...our last vacation before Baby Girl Hansen arrives! We stayed at Marival Resort, the site of our timeshare in Puerto Vallarta. The weather was beautiful, the food was great (especially the desserts!), and we had a nice relaxing time! We had fun, but it was great to come home too. We're hoping to take Baby Girl for her first trip to Mexico about two years from now; Marival is very kid-friendly, which is great! Here are a few pictures from the trip!

Headed out for dinner:

24 and a half weeks:

Last full day on the beach:

Relaxing:

Cabanas for beachside massages:

Virgin Margarita for the not-so-virgin Mama:

Beautiful sunset:

Another day at the beach:

Sierra Madre mountains:

One of three pools:

Does "Bump" still apply?!

2011-02-18T00:12:00.005-06:00

Here are a couple of pictures of the "baby bump" from last week before leaving for Mexico (almost 24 weeks). I think in the week that has elapsed, the term "bump" is no longer applicable...I'm feeling pretty big these days!!! Baby Girl and I got a another great report at our 24 week appointment last week, which I just can't get enough of! Another positive (or negative): I've only gained 7 lbs so far. Most likely due to the nausea/vomiting of the first almost 20 weeks of my pregnancy and my food aversions. I was worried Baby wasn't getting enough nutrients, but Dr. Weidner said she is just the right size, so I feel better. I always imagined I would gain about 50 lbs when I was pregnant, but I guess there's still a long way to go! ;)

Mexico pictures coming soon! We had a great time, but it's great to be home!!!

Those crazy kids!

2011-02-07T23:12:00.003-06:00

Here are a few recent pictures of our nieces and nephew. When I look at these four adorable kids, I can't help but wonder what (or should I say who?) Baby Girl Hansen will look like. Will she look like the Tooley girls, or maybe like Livie?! Can't wait to find out!

Livie helping Grandpa Dave with his computer...so helpful!

Future soccer star?!

Preston playing basketball

Hanging with Kaitlyn and Kamryn at the game

Grieving and Believing

2011-01-29T21:38:00.007-06:00

I know I'm no expert on grief and loss, but I have had my share of loss in my life. In times of grief and loss, I am left devastated, hopeless, and angry with God. Why do terrible things have to happen to good people? Why would God put someone through something so horrible? It's something I'm not sure I'll ever understand. Several events have happened recently to remind me how powerful devastating loss can be, and how uplifting prayers and faith can be.

Last Friday, a brave young man lost his battle with cancer. Mark Strong from Oakland graduated with my brother Zach (meaning he was only 27), and he had been battling cancer for several years. I didn't know Mark well, but his struggle and his loss has touched me. He was a kind and brave person who didn't deserve to die, and didn't deserve to suffer in pain for so many years.

That same night, Lisa Robinson died suddenly and unexpectedly of an apparent heart attack. Lisa Robinson is the mother of Kansas basketball player Thomas Robinson. Thomas, 19 years old and a college sophomore, has endured more loss in the last month than anyone I've known. His maternal grandmother died in late December, his maternal grandfather died two weeks ago, and he lost his mother (who was only 43) unexpectedly a week ago. T-Rob heard the news of his mother's death by phone call from his 7 year old sister in Washington DC. These two young people lost the three people who have raised them in less than a month.

Both of these tragedies have touched me, evoked many tears, and weighed on my mind for the last week (and not just because I'm an emotional, pregnant basketcase). The amount of grief and loss that Mark's friends and family, as well as Thomas and Jayla Robinson, are feeling must be unreal. How could God allow someone so young and good to suffer from such a horrible disease, and be taken from the world far too soon? How could God allow Thomas and his sister to lose the three most important people in their lives, at such a young age and in such a short time? How can they possibly get through such devastation, hopelessness, and loss? Faith. Family. Friends. Mark had so many people who loved him, and I hope all his friends and family can lean on each other and their faith in God to get through this difficult time. Thomas is a part of wonderful and supportive extended family at KU, and the outpouring of support from the community and university has been overwhelming.

At times like these, I don't understand. When I lost my three babies, I didn't understand. I may never understand, but maybe I'm not meant to understand. Faith is believing in God, believing in something we can't see, something bigger than ourselves. Faith and God's will have gotten me to this point in my life, and in June we will finally (God willing) welcome a healthy baby of our own. While I will never understand and never forget, I have found peace. I hope and pray that faith will carry Mark's family and friends and Thomas and Jayla Robinson through this difficult time. May God's grace and the power of prayer lift them up, and in time I hope they too will find peace.

Room to Grow!

2011-01-25T15:31:00.004-06:00

One of the most fun things about being pregnant: buying a bunch of new maternity clothes! They are definitely becoming "a must"...this growing belly can no longer be contained! ;) It took me the longest time to find some things that I like, but I finally did. I've been having fun picking things out and waiting for them to arrive in the mail...it's like a kid waiting for Christmas! My inspiration for a lot of the clothes is our upcoming trip to Mexico; I can't wait! We leave on the 10th, just a little over 2 weeks from now!!! I now have a new cute maternity swimsuit, a bunch of cute dresses, and a whole lot more. My favorite stores: Motherhood, Gap, Old Navy, and Target of course. Can't wait to wear them all...and luckily, there is still room to grow!

Baby Girl Hansen in action

2011-01-15T00:48:00.002-06:00

Here is the ultrasound video of Baby Girl Hansen! You can all see for yourselves how active this little peanut is. Notice how she keeps her right hand up by her face, and at one point looks like she's trying to suck on her thumb! You can also see her heartbeat fluttering, which is amazing. A little over a minute into it, you catch a glimpse of her long legs and her feet, which are almost constantly kicking her mama! ;) Hope you all enjoy it (and can distinguish what you're looking at...Brent had trouble at times!) and find it as amazing as we do!

Pink or Blue?

2011-01-14T22:42:00.006-06:00

That is the question! And today, we got our answer....pink it is! We are having a baby girl!!! This was a bit of surprise to most of us (Brent, me, my sister, my mom, etc)...we all thought it was a boy. Baby Girl Hansen looks wonderful and healthy, and we couldn't be happier or more relieved! Knowing what I know in my profession, I couldn't be more relieved that she looks healthy: normal sized head, normal spinal cord, normal heart, four limbs...thank you God! Baby Girl is measuring right on target, 19 weeks 5 days, putting our due date at June 7th. Can't wait to meet her! Poor Brent will be severely outnumbered with me, Piper, and Baby Girl! ;)

Our little sweet pea looked so amazing on ultrasound. She is very very active; the official report of the baby's position during the ultrasound was "variable", if that tells you anything! She was moving around like crazy, which she always does! She likes to keep her right hand up by her beautiful face, and she looked like she was trying to suck on her thumb. We were also told she has long legs...wonder which side of the family that comes from! ;) Her feet looked big to me too, which explains why I can feel her kicking me right now! Speaking of which, Brent got to feel her kick for the first time last night...another amazing milestone!

Here are a few pictures of our sweet baby girl! (Sorry they aren't the best quality...I took pictures of them with my phone until I get them scanned.) I will try to get our ultrasound video posted as well so you can all see her in action! Feeling very blessed!!!

19 weeks:

Her girly parts:

Her face, looking straight ahead:

Big hand

Big feet (the better to kick her mama with!):

Our beautiful girl's face:

Almost 20 weeks; excited for a healthy baby girl:

Progress, finally!

2011-01-09T00:02:00.005-06:00

I am now entering week 19 of my pregnancy, and in a few ways, I feel like we are FINALLY making some progress! In the last week, my "bump" has really started to pop out. It's nice that I'm finally starting to look pregnant and not just chubby! :) I also think I'm finally making progress health-wise. I hope I'm not jinxing myself, but after a couple of weeks of feeling very sick and puking quite frequently, I haven't thrown up in a week! And I'm feeling better than I've felt in weeks or months! So let's hope I'm finally turning the corner. Last but not least, Baby Hansen is growing just as surely as his/her mama! I am starting to feel the baby move a lot more, and more often. It is such an amazing feeling and, of course, reassuring. And the icing on the cake: finding out the sex of the baby this coming Friday...can't wait! I feel like we're finally getting to the fun part of the pregnancy!!! I'm feeling very blessed and grateful these days.

Since so many people have asked, here is a picture of the "bump", taken at 18 weeks!

Pitter patter of tiny feet

2010-12-28T13:23:00.003-06:00

Well, Christmas has come and gone...what a relief! I've been a little bit of scrooge this year. I think it's because I had to work all Christmas weekend, and I still have very little energy to spare. But, before I had to work Friday thru Sunday, I was able to celebrate with my family and Brent's family, which was wonderful. Baby Hansen isn't even here yet, and he/she is already so spoiled...we got so many presents for him/her! Our little one is very lucky! Now that Christmas is over, our anniversary is Friday. It's been four amazingly wonderful, difficult, and rewarding years of marriage, and the next one will be even better as we finally add to our family! I love you with all my heart honey!

So far, things are still going great with the pregnancy: 17 weeks and counting! I'm still exhausted and throwing up occasionally (shouldn't all that stuff be over by now?!), but otherwise everything is perfect. I listen to the baby's heartbeat about once a week at work with the doppler, which is always reassuring for me. (I'll always be paraoid, but can you blame me?) The latest news is I have been feeling the baby move the last few days; what an absolutely amazing experience! The pitter patter of tiny feet (or hands, elbows, legs, whatever!) in my uterus is so surreal and wonderful...I could just lay here all day with my hand on my stomach, feeling that occasional little wave of movement. We are so blessed!!!

Next up: finding out the sex of Baby Hansen! We have our 20 week ultrasound on Jan 14th, and I can't wait...it cannot come fast enough! Most people are think it's a girl, but a few are thinking boy. My personal gut feeling is it's a boy, but we will find out soon enough! Any guesses anyone?! We will also know if our little one is healthy, and I keep praying for an intact spinal cord, four chambers of the heart, etc. I will keep you all updated! Hope you all have a safe and healthy New Year!

Happy Holidays

2010-12-16T14:28:00.002-06:00

Happy Holidays from our growing family to yours! May all your dreams come true!

Our Little (or BIG) Miracle!

2010-12-09T18:39:00.006-06:00

Hey everyone! I know it's been a while since I've updated, but this is well worth the wait! We are thrilled to announce that after 3+ years and 3 miscarriges, we are FINALLY expecting a little miracle!!! Baby Hansen is due to arrive on June 7th! Brent and I literally couldn't be happier! I'm 14 and a half weeks along, and everything is going great so far. It is such a relief to FINALLY make it into the 2nd trimester! More than 1/3 done!

Due to my history, I have had doctor's appointments every two weeks, so we've been lucky enough to see our little peanut many times. A few highlights: the heartbeat has been nice and strong with each visit; at 8 weeks, Baby was trying to suck on his/her toes; at 10 weeks, Baby was moving his/her arms and legs so much, it looked like he/she was dancing; and at 14 weeks, we heard the heartbeat for the first time! It is so amazing to know that it is really happening this time! I've been nervous of course, but the farther along we get, the more comfortable I feel. Now if only the exhaustion and the nausea/vomiting would start to improve! But it's all worth it!!!!

Below is a picture of Baby Hansen at 10 weeks. Sorry, I know the picture is not very recent, but our last few pictures have been blurry. Thanks to all our family and friends who have been praying for us...I know it helped us get to this point! We should know in the next 2 or 4 weeks if it's a boy or a girl, so stay tuned!!!

They grow up fast!

2010-11-06T21:46:00.006-05:00

It seems like only yesterday that I came into the Hansen family, but in reality, it was 7 years ago! Kaitlyn and Preston were so young then, and Kamryn wasn't even a twinkle in her parents' eyes yet! Well, now Kaitlyn is in junior high (and ALMOST a teenager), Preston is playing tackle football, and Kamryn is a year away from kindergarten! Here are a few pictures of Kamryn playing soccer (which is hilarious, to watch a bunch of 4 and 5 year olds), Preston playing football, and Kaitlyn's dress for her first junior high dance! They grow up so fast!!!

Livia's 1st Birthday

2010-10-31T22:25:00.005-05:00

Wow, time flies! Livia Paige Roesler celebrated her 1st birthday on October 13th. Where did the last year go?! I remember visiting Lindsay and newborn Liv in the hospital like it was yesterday! Our little baby is growing up fast! Here are a few pictures of Livie's birthday party! Happy Birthday little cupcake...you are so loved!

Livie Time!

2010-09-30T21:43:00.002-05:00

While in Lawrence for the KU game last weekend, I got to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon with my Livie! (As you can tell, since she's still in her jammies!) She is getting so big and has such a sweet little personality. I cannot believe she will be a year old in less than two weeks! Here are few pictures of Livia Paige:

Cutest little smile!!!

Clapping for the Chiefs (3-0 baby!)

Sweet girl laying on her mommy

Hip Hip Hooray for Football!

2010-09-29T17:23:00.004-05:00

Football season is finally upon us, and I for one could not be more excited! It is my favorite time of year...football, tailgating with family and friends, beautiful weather! We (Brent more so than me, because of my work schedule) have been busy going to games since the season started, with many more to come! Here are a few pictures from the 2010 season so far:

First game of the year in Ames (Brent finally got to use his "beer belt"):

In KC at Arrowhead for the ISU/K-State game (aka Farmaggedon):

My first KU game of the year in Lawrence with friends:

Don't stick your nose where it doesn't belong!

2010-09-17T13:48:00.003-05:00

This is what happens when you are a busy little puppy who gets into things! Poor Woofie seems to have burned her nose on the still-hot grill after dinner one night. :( It had a scab on it, and she came in from playing in the backyard and it was open and raw. Poor baby! But, in true Piper form, it doesn't seem to bother her...happy as always!!!

So long Summer!

2010-09-14T01:32:00.007-05:00

Summer 2010 is officially history! Brent and I had a lot of fun this summer, mixed in with some disappointment and devastation with our fertility struggles and the loss of another baby. Needless to say, we are ready for fall...the cooler weather and football season are two of the biggest reasons! But before we welcome fall with open arms, here are some pictures from the last few weeks of summer for the Hansens. Enjoy!

Last weekend of summer at the lake with the family:
A few more pictures from our trip to Colorado:

An evening at the Tooleys' house for our niece Kaitlyn's 12th birthday!

Kaitlyn, Preston, and Kamryn in STL before Scott's wedding:

Brent's last baseball weekend of the summer; the Red Sox won the Harvest Tourney (thanks in part to Brent's 2nd homerun of the season)! Great season Sox!

A fun night at the Better Than Ezra concert with friends at Whiskey Roadhouse:

Brent in the Phillippines with his team:

Weddings and Travel

2010-08-30T00:14:00.006-05:00

What a busy wedding season! We've attended six weddings since May, and that's not including two we couldn't make it to! In August alone, we've travelled to St. Louis for Brent's cousin Scott's wedding, and to Keystone CO for my friend Kate's wedding. We had a great time with the Hansen family in STL, and a lot of fun with some of my friends from college in CO! And of course sightseeing on both trips! Congrats to the newlyweds Scott & Clara Hansen and Brandon & Kate Haynes! Here are a few pictures from the trips!

I wish wishing was enough...

2010-08-29T23:36:00.002-05:00

It is no secret that Brent and I have had our troubles conceiving a child. We've tried for three years, both on our own and with the help of a fertility specialist. But once again, luck wasn't on our side. After another round of fertility treatment, we lost another baby four weeks ago. It was early, but that doesn't make it any easier. This is our third miscarriage, and needless to say, we are very devastated, disappointed, and discouraged. It has been a long and difficult road for us with no end in sight. If wishing, hoping, and praying were enough, we'd have a beautiful healthy child. We would appreciate everyone's prayers as we recover from this and try to add to our family, because we aren't giving up!

Wedding season is halfway over!

2010-08-04T03:42:00.004-05:00

Summer is unofficially "Wedding Season", and boy, is it in full bloom for us! On July 17th, both my cousin Leah and my friend Molly got married. Both brides looked absolutely radiant, and the receptions were fun for catching up with family and having a blast with friends, respectively. Next up on the schedule to wind down the season: Brent's cousin Scott's wedding in St. Louis on August 14th, and my friend Kate's wedding in Keystone, CO on August 21st (and that's not counting the two weddings we won't make it to this Saturday). Here are some photos from the weddings of Brent & Leah Biggs and Scott & Molly Nedved!

Summertime Fun

2010-07-27T00:00:00.009-05:00

Here are some random pictures from the summer so far!

Brent and Darrin playing bocci ball:

Weekends at the lake with the family:

Livie loves her maracas!

Putnam Family Night at our house:

All about Livia!

At the Goo Goo Dolls concert at Stir Cove with Lindsey and Rhett:

A select few from Brent's baseball games, including his home run at Westphalia!

At the lake with my two loves:

Zara's Summertime Visit!

2010-07-26T23:18:00.006-05:00

We had another visit from Zara this summer! It is always such a great time when she is here, but it's always so sad to say goodbye again! We miss her so much, and she misses us too. She always says she wants to stay and not go back to Oregon! We had a great time with her, spending a weekend at the lake, going to dinner for Brent's birthday, and spending time with the Tooley kids (including a sleepover at our house with Zara, her brother Leighton, and the Tooleys...what a night)! There has been talk that they might move back to Omaha...that would make us so happy! We will have to wait and see I guess. We love you and miss you Zara Marie!

A weekend at the lake:

At dinner at Kobe Steakhouse for Brent's birthday:

The evening/night we had a picnic in the park, then the sleepover at our house!

So Long Rosenblatt! :(

2010-07-07T23:54:00.005-05:00

Another College World Series has come and gone! But unlike years before, this was the last CWS at Rosenblatt Stadium. :( Brent and I have gone to the CWS every year since we've lived in Omaha, and I know we will miss Rosenblatt! I'm sure the new stadium downtown will be beautiful and state-of-the-art, but Rosenblatt holds so much history! It will truly be missed! Thanks for the memories Rosenblatt!!!

On The Move!

2010-06-17T22:03:00.003-05:00

Look out world! Liv is on the move!

We spent last weekend at the lake with the family, and Livia is officially all over the place! She crawls at breakneck speed and is pulling herself up. She is even trying to stand up from her crawling position. It won't be long before she's cruising with help from furniture and then walking! She's growing up so fast!

Dog Days of Summer

2010-06-17T21:29:00.007-05:00

Summer rolls on! With so many hot and humid days lately, we have been spending more time inside and running the AC day and night! Summer is such a tough time to try to keep Piper busy. It's no fun being outside playing with her, and it has gotten too hot and humid for me to run with her outside, but we make sure we get a walk in everyday! I'm still keeping up with my running, but I've been going to the gym instead of running outside. I'm not a huge fan of treadmills, but you can't beat running in air conditioning when it's hot out! Plus I've started lifting weights again, so hoping I keep getting myself into better shape!

This past weekend, the whole family was at the lake to celebrate my dad. It was a celebration of his birthday, Fathers Day, and his cancer remission. It was so much fun to have the whole family together...we were just missing Roz (but I think he hates us anyway). The weather wasn't the best, but we still had a great time! And I got in a lot of Livie time of course!

We have some fun weekends coming up in the next few weeks. This weekend kicks of the College World Series, which is always a great time for Omaha residents! Brent and I always make it to a couple of games, and we have friends who come in from out of town for the festivities. I'm sad it's the last year at Rosenblatt, but we will make the most of it!

Zara arrives for a visit on Monday! We are so excited to see her and spend time with her...she will be here for almost a whole month! We are planning to take her up the lake next weekend, and spend a lot of time with Brent's family. Kaitlyn, Preston, and Kamryn love Zara so much...when the four of them get together, it's like she never left...they don't miss a beat!

July should keep us busy as well! We will be at the lake for the weekend of the 4th, which is always a good time! Then we have the weddings of my cousin Leah and my friend Molly...unfortunately they are on the same day, at the same time, in different cities. So we will go to Leah's wedding in Griswold, then head to Des Moines for the middle/end of Molly's reception.

Baseball is going well for Brent. The Massena Red Sox are currently 5-1 on the season! Brent has pitched well and has been hitting well, as always. It helps that they have quite a few young guys who have been interested and shown a lot of promise this season! And it's always a good time to hang out with all the baseball guys...they are so much fun!!!

Hope everyone is staying cool and having a great summer!

The Many Faces of Livia

2010-06-04T00:21:00.005-05:00

Here is a small sample of some pictures I took of Livie at the lake last week...I seriously took more than 50 pictures of her in a 30 minute period. :) These pictures just show you how many funny faces this kid makes! Hope you all enjoy the many faces of Livia!

Summer is here!

2010-06-03T00:09:00.006-05:00

Now that Memorial Day has come and gone, summer is officially here! I had to work Saturday through Monday of Memorial Day weekend (the joys of being a nurse!), so we were at the lake Thursday and Friday. I literally can't remember the last time we were at the lake for Memorial Day weekend and had such beautiful weather! It was in the upper 80s and sunny the whole time we were there...perfect! We are excited to spend as much time as we can at the lake this summer!

'Tis the Season!

2010-05-24T16:30:00.005-05:00

Wow, it definitely feels like summer! The weather is warm, windy, and humid. Wedding season has begun. Baseball season is in full swing. Memorial Day is a week away. Summer has begun!

My cousin Trevor is a married man! He and Krissy tied the knot on May 15th. The weather was perfect, the bride was beautiful, and it was a great day and night to spend with family! Their wedding kicks off "wedding season" for us...in addition to their wedding, we have 5 more weddings to attend this summer! 'Tis the season!

Brent's baseball season has begun! The Massena Red Sox opened their season with a 13-1 win over Stanton on May 16th! Brent pitched the win and went 2 for 4 with a couple of RBIs. The Sox also won their second game of the season, a 5-4 victory against Neola. Brent was 3 for 4 with a double and a couple of singles! So far the young guys that have started playing the last year or two are playing really well, which is exactly what they need to have a successful season. Here's hoping it's a great season for the Red Sox! 'Tis the season!

Yesterday, I "competed" in the Council Bluffs 5K run. It was definitely an experience! My friends Lindsey, Joni, and Paula also ran the 5K. It was great to have their support! The weather was warm and humid, even for 7:00 in the morning; that made it tough! I didn't do as well as I hoped to, but I finished, and that's what counts! My main goal has been to get into better physical shape, and I have. I'm running three times farther than I could before I started, and that's a start! The 5K was just a means to an end: training for it is getting me where I want to be...I'm not quite there yet, but I will be. I'm going to keep running, improving, and getting healthier! With summer now here, 'tis the season!

God bless Livia Paige

2010-05-13T00:47:00.006-05:00

This past weekend, we celebrated the baptism of my beautiful niece Livia Paige Roesler. It was a great weekend, bringing together the Putnam and Roesler families for the first time since Lindsay and Roz's wedding four years ago. We had a great time spending time together, with Livie as the center of attention of course!

Liv is getting so big...I can't believe she's already 7 months old! Time really flies. She has such a cute little personality. Half the time she is a very serious baby, but she is also very outgoing, happy, and loud! She loves to yell at the top of her lungs for no reason at all! Uncle Brent and I enjoyed spending time with her!

Livia looked so adorable in her little baptism dress. She behaved very well in church; not a peep out of her! She was surrounded by all of those who love her at her baptism. We then celebrated with a family brunch. It was a great weekend, with a beautiful little girl at the center!

Another one bites the dust!

2010-05-10T19:10:00.004-05:00

My friend Lynelle became the latest of my friends to bite the dust and turn 30! Her husband Mark threw her a surprise birthday party at Whispering Hills vineyard outside of Carson. Her actual birthday was April 28th, but the party was on May 7th, so I think that helped throw her off the scent! It was great to hang out with friends for a night, especially two of my best friends, Lynelle and Lindsey! Even Brent got to hang out with two old friends, Jake Branan and Andy Hensley. Life is good!

A family weekend...or two or three!

2010-05-07T16:57:00.003-05:00

Hey all! Brent and I have a lot of weekends ahead with the Putnam family! This past weekend, we had visitors in town. My brother Tyler, his girlfriend Courtney, and their dog Scout were in town to visit. While Ty and Courtney were at the Berkshire Hathaway event, I dogsat Scout. Piper loves have another dog to play with! And instead of one shadow following me everywhere, I had two! ;) Once Scout got warmed up to Piper again, they played really well together! We topped off the weekend by having dinner with Tyler, Courtney, my other brother Zach, and his girlfriend Kris!
The next two weekends will also be spent with the Putnam family. We are heading to Lawrence this weekend for my niece Livia's baptism. She is almost 7 months old already...where did the time go?! I'm so excited to spend time with her and see all the new milestones she has reached! Next weekend is my cousin Trevor's wedding here in Omaha. Jason and Trevor are almost like brothers to us, so it should be very emotional and fun day! I am excited to spend a lot of time with my family in the next two weeks!

It's a little early in the season...

2010-04-29T00:05:00.003-05:00

...for stitches! Brent was playing softball Monday night, and took a grounder to the face. His laceration was full thickness (all the way through to the inside of his mouth) and took 7 stitches to close! Although it's not as bad as the ball he took the nose 5 or 6 years ago playing baseball, causing a concussion and requiring stitches on the bridge of his nose. Could be a long season!!!

More Mexico pics!

2010-04-28T23:38:00.004-05:00

Here are a few more pictures from Mexico, including pics from our amazing suite! And of course Brent with some of the Cowboys cheerleaders...made his day!

Viva la Mexico!

2010-04-26T12:31:00.008-05:00

Hello all! Brent and I returned from our vacation in Mexico last week, and it was just what we needed! We had a great time, relaxing in the sun and spending time together. We stayed at the Marival Resort in Nuevo Vallarta, just outside Puerto Vallarta. It was a beautiful resort! But, while we were there, we upgraded to their new "luxury" addition, the Marival Residence. It was absolutely amazing! The room was wonderful, the resort was beautiful, and the food was fantastic. And as an added bonus for Brent, the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders were at our resort, shooting their 2011 calendar spread. It's quite a hit to the self esteem to be in your swimsuit around those girls! While we were there, they had the resort's grand opening party, which was quite the soire! We had a great time! It was difficult to leave, but it was great to come home to Piper...I missed her so much!

Brent and I will be making sure we have time for traveling from now on. While at the resort, we attended a "timeshare" presentation. And we ended up signing up! We aren't sure if we got suckered in or not, but it seems like a great deal! So not only do we have a "timeshare" at this resort, we also get bargain discounts at tons of hotels and resorts, as well as flights and events. I also think it'll be a great opportunity to take vacations with our families and friends. So, we think it will be a good thing for us!

Brent has been busy at work since we returned. For him, it's difficult to go on vacation and come back to a huge pile of work and a million emails! (Luckily I don't have that problem!) Since the restructuring at his company, he now has employees in the Phillippines, and he's been informed he may have to go there. I'm not very excited about that, but duty calls I guess!

My 5K run is now exactly a month away! I don't know that I'm ready yet! My training program has me running 3 days a week, but I don't think that's enough. My endurance isn't improving like it should. So I think it's time to ditch the training program and step it up a little bit!

Summer will be here before we know it! I'm sure it will be another busy summer for us, what with Brent's softball and baseball schedules, work, sand volleyball for me, and trips to the lake! It will also be a busy summer for weddings! Starting in May, we have 6 weddings to attend this summer, including ones in St. Louis and Colorado! Should be a fun summer...can't wait! Hope is all is well with everyone!

Spring has FINALLY sprung!

2010-04-04T22:51:00.010-05:00

Spring is finally here! All the snow is melted, temps have already reached 80 this year, and grass is getting green! After a long, bitterly cold winter, I have never looked forward to spring more. And it has been a busy spring so far for the Hansens! Highlights of Spring 2010: Zara's visit to Omaha, the annual Walnut Alumni Tournament weekend, and Easter with the families!

Little miss Zara Marie was back for two weeks to visit her Grandma Rhonda and us. The time she is back always goes by much too quickly, and this visit was no exception. She flew back to Oregon yesterday, and we miss her already! While she was here, we got to spend time with her, as well as the Hansen and Tooley family. Zara and the Tooley kids don't miss a beat when they get together...it's as if she never left! We had a great time with her, and we can't wait until this summer when she comes back for another visit!

Last weekend we wrapped up another successful year for the annual Dale Lynch Memorial Tournament in Walnut. For the last 7 years, an alumni tournament has been held in Walnut to raise money for scholarships for graduating seniors and the school. The men play basketball, and the women play volleyball. Brent and his team have played every year (and have won the most titles!) and I have played since the 2nd year. Brent's team the Crushers were victorious again, winning the tourney for the 2nd straight year. Even though they are the oldest team in the competitive bracket, they are still the best! I play on a volleyball team with a bunch of Brent's former classmates; we were defending champs this year, but Team "Serves You Right" fell short of repeating. We won the Silver bracket, taking 4th place. We had a great time, as always!

This Easter weekend was all about family! Brent and I headed to Lawrence on Friday to stay at Lindsay and Roz's house. Mom, Dad, Zach, and Tyler were in town as well. We had a great time getting to spend lots of quality time with Livia, as well as the whole Putnam family! We even squeezed in a little time to see some friends while in town. Livie had a great first Easter, and looked absolutely adorable in her little Easter dress! She is growing up so fast! After church, we jumped in the car and made our way back to Walnut for our niece Kamryn's 4th birthday party and Easter with the Hansens. We had a great weekend, but are now exhausted!

With spring finally here and warmer weather on a daily basis, Piper has been able to spend more time outside playing! We are finally able to play fetch and go for runs on a regular basis. The weather does have a drawback though; we are both suffering from terrible allergies right now! I am training to run a 5K in Council Bluffs in May; I'm on Week 5 of an eight week training program. It looks easy on paper, but it's actually been difficult! I'm sticking to it, and I'm on schedule to be ready to run in May! Also on the horizon is our trip to Puerto Vallarta! We leave on the 15th and we are soooo ready! It'll be nice to have a relaxing week with sand, sea, drinks and food! Hope everyone had a great Easter! Adios for now!

My favorite Livie pictures

2010-03-14T03:39:00.009-05:00

Here are some of my favorite pictures of Livia (in reverse chronological order). She is now 5 months old, and growing and changing so fast! Here is Aunt Leslie's little sweetheart: