Belcher Blog

Noah Belcher is Here!

2010-02-26T13:44:00.000-08:00

Our sweet boy is here...Noah Thomas Belcher was born on January 28th at 12:15pm. He was 9.2 lbs and 20.5 inches long. He is now almost 4 months, and I am going to do my best at recalling the highlights since his birth.

I had a much easier labor and delivery this go around. Only took 3 pushes! North Kansas City Hospital did not allow any visitors under 14 due to the H1N1 and seasonal flu. That meant Trent did not get to meet Noah until he was home. I did go visit him in the lobby a few hours after I delivered. He had no idea what was going on, but happily sung his ABC's and counted in Spanish.

Bring home Noah to meet Trent was an awesome experience! Trent was not sure what to think at first, but has adjusted well to the new addition. Trent thinks his official name is Baby Noah. Big brother gets Mama diapers and wipes and is a big helper!

I had a hard time feeding Noah after we got home from the hospital. Kathy dropped everything and came to my rescue! She came down for a day to help with breastfeeding, giving me support and rest! I can never thank her enough for that! I wish I could say that everything got easier and my breastfeeding issues were resolved. Unfortunately, after about a month we switched to formula. I do think that a happy and sane Mom is better than a sad and partially breastfeeding one!

We were happy to hear that Noah didn't have any kidney issues that Trent experienced. He is on reflux medicine, but that is very manageable. Up until recently, he has been a wake every 3 hour feeder. Thankfully, he is now giving us 4 or 5 hour stretches at night.

Noah smiled for the first time in his 3 week picture. He has an adorable dimple on his right cheek that he must have gotten from his Mimi. He really started smiling on command at about 6 weeks. Now at 3.5 months he is starting to giggle. It is really something special when you hear your little person laugh for the first time.

Noah is a chubby and solid baby. At his two month appointment he was 15 lbs and 23 inches and at his 3 month appointment he was 19.8 lbs and 25 inches.

There is so much more to add, but because it has taken me this long I am going to post this. Hopefully I will get a chance to add some more pictures and write more, but with two under two there are no guarantees!

12-16 months

2009-11-16T19:01:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Trent! We had a blast at his "Very Hungry Caterpillar" party. He got his first taste of pizza and cake- he liked the pizza and wasn't too sure about the cake (thanks to Joann who makes that best cakes on earth!)

Super Hero buddies!

Showing us that tantrums don't really start at 2 years old.... it's more like 13 months!

Helping Daddy mow the yard. He did most of the trimming afterwards.

KC Zoo- Trent likes to make all sorts of animal noises. He can do sea lion, elephant, cow, lion, sheep and dog.

See the markers in his hands as he plays on the piano with his cousins Jamila and Benjamin. This boy is obsessed with "colors" - crayons, markers or anything that makes a mark. He can correctly recognize several colors at 15 months. His favorites are yellow and purple.

Mackin Park is one of his favorites. I am going to be so sad when it gets too cold to go outside much. We go to the park 2-3 time a week and he loves the slide and swings.

Group of us went to the Omaha Zoo. We had a great time! Cannot wait to take him when he is a little older so he can really appreciate what he is seeing.

No nap at the zoo and he slept the whole way home. I just love this picture- my Trent is at the end of the rainbow!

First go at spaghetti!

Trent was recovering from a virus on Halloween, so we stayed in at the grandparent's houses. He was an adorable monkey (which is so fitting because of his love for bananas). He enjoyed running to the door when the bell rang and seeing the other children come up to the door for candy.

Trent is still growing like a weed - his 15 month appointment he was 30lbs and 34.5 inches long. These days he loves to read and color. He also loves his baseball tee and will even balance a full sized basketball to hit. Dora the Explorer is the only thing on TV he will watch, we keep it to an episode a day. He tries to lift my shirt in public to talk to the baby! Hopefully once his brother is born he will know there is no baby in there.

We recently moved him into his big boy room (aka the old office). It is a baseball themed room- guess who thought of that?! This week we are working on taking the binkie away for good- it has been rough, but we thought it was best to do it before #2 arrived. Only two more months.

Everyday is an adventure and we are so blessed to have such a sweet and loving little guy!

Weeks 39-51

2009-06-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

You could say I got a little behind on blogging.... =) I stopped doing the weekly pictures because I forgot for a couple of weeks and I just decided 38 weeks was a good stopping point. So much has happened over the last 3 months! I will do my best to keep this blog brief, considering the time I need to cover.

Trent is really in computers now days. He loves to type and control the mouse. Not only do I have to fight to get the remote from Todd, I now have to compete with Trent.

First Haircut! I am not sure how Grammie did it with Trent squirming all over the place, but it turned out great!

First Royals Game- Trent handled his first Royals game like a pro! I thought he might get upset when the crowd cheered (thankfully we went to the Royals game so there wasn't much cheering), but he seemed to like the clapping. The new Little K setup is really awesome. Trent enjoyed the playground and next time we will give the carousel a go.

Trent with his cute 2nd cousins Brooke and Amanda.

So Big!

Trent loves the water. We took him to the fountains at Zona Rosa and he had a ball. I hope that water is somewhat clean, he drank about a bottles worth.

Fo Hawk after the fountain fun. Trent playing the piano at Grandma & Grandpa Snyder's house. I liked how gentle he pushed the keys. His second time playing was a little more like how hard can I pound on these keys?

Some buddies sitting around eating some grapes.
He will agree to be outside as long as his skin is no where near the grass. I hope this faze soon will pass!

First time eating cheese- he is officially addicted!

Getting clean is hard work, but someone has to do it!

I love his many facial expressions....

John and Kristen's Wedding- The wedding was so beautiful! This shot was from their first dance. That dance got me teary eyed and after the song finished I looked around the table and there were several other ladies showing emotion. Congrats to John and Kristen!!
(my pictures didn't turn out so these are compliments of Nick and Angie)

Trent and Todd at the rehearsal dinner.

Our newest addition to the family!!- Oliver Henry Kluver 8 days old

I must say I miss the newborn stage. Oliver was content to stay in my arms all evening. He is such a cutie.

Trent is quite the ladies man.

Gladstone Pool- Trent first adventure in a public pool. It was 98 degrees outside and the pool felt wonderful! Trent had no problems jumping right in. He insisted he could walk by himself in the shallow pool, and got to taste the water.

Cheese!
If you notice his shirt- Trent is going to be a big brother in late January! We are so excited for the new addition.

Video 1- Trent taking steps

Video 2- Trent shooting a basket

Week 38 & Week 39

2009-04-19T14:37:00.000-07:00

Just had to add this picture, he looks like he is pretending to sleep!

Happy Easter everyone! Trent went to visit the Bunny at Zona Rosa and surprisingly he wasn't scared of the giant Bunny. I liked this picture, because he looks like he is a baby in those big arms.

Several people have told me that in the future Trent is going to get me for these pictures. What can I say, he looks adorable in bunny ears!

We decided not to go all out for easter this year, but he did like to suck on the plastic eggs. We got him a couple of books and stuffed animals.

Zona Rosa also had some baby chicks. Trent was in awe of these little creatures.

Grammie and Grandpa got him this hilarious duck that quacks songs. The catch to this duck is you have to figure out what song it is and move your hand to create the rhythm of the songs.

We tried some strawberries and blueberries (a no no I believe for some reason) in his mesh feeder. I am just glad I remember to put a bib on him. Very messy, but he loved his snack!

Our very generous friends sent Trent a Royal Blue Crew Membership. This includes tickets to pretty much any game, hat, backpack, VIP to get front row for kids run on Sunday's after the game, admission to the new Little K and more! Todd is very excited to get Trent out to the park sometime this year. As you can see Trent loved his gift and looks forward to being a lifelong fan of the Royals! Thank you Dunns!

We figured out that if you get tired of reading to Trent (usually about 20 books in) you can place him in his chair and he will do the flipping and narration.

We got a quick swing in before Easter dinner at the Snyder house. Below is a video of the fun.

Week 36 and Week 37

2009-04-12T18:47:00.000-07:00

These past weeks have been fun filled and busy! Now that Trent is an expert on crawling our days of setting him down without a care in the world are over. He loves to open and shut drawers, and open Grammies cabinets! He loves to be read to. He has several flip up books that he can open and turn the pages. He will literally sit through 15 books and be grabbing for more. I hope this continues, I really enjoy reading to him.

Caesar is very gentle with Trent. He lets him grab his ears and will even sit very still and will act as support for Trent as he stands. I think as they grow, they will become best buddies.

Trent was checking out the shoppers at Zona Rosa from Barnes and Noble. We picked up "Where is Baby's Belly Button" and a Clifford book.

Todd and I were driving by his home he lived in growing up (by Park Hill) and we went to the park off of 75th street. Trent had a blast, and went down the slide all by himself.

"Look Dad, no hands!"He has been drooling so much the past few days. I am convinced he has teeth coming in, but I have been saying that for about 3 months =).

You cannot see it very well in this picture, but here is his first (and maybe last) mohawk!

Video 1- Trent talking in the car

Video 2- Going down the slide by himself for the first time!

Video 3- Trapped in jail (gate)

Week 35

2009-03-30T18:01:00.001-07:00

Week 34- 8 Months- Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

2009-03-16T18:07:00.000-07:00

Don't worry, he has a diaper under the cover!

This has been quite a week for the baby book records! This week- Trent said "hi" and "bye", started crawling, waved bye-bye, and fielded and threw a ball back to Daddy! He loves his new found freedom. No longer does he fuss when a toy is out of reach, he just hops up on his knees and gets it! Now if I could just teach him that Caesar's bones and rubber squeaky toys are not to chew on- eww!

We had a little St. Patrick's Day photo shoot at home this week. He looked hilarious in his little green bow tie!

Tune in next week for videos of him crawling and playing catch with Todd!

Week 33

2009-03-08T18:50:00.000-07:00

Trent is getting closer to crawling. He can now get on all fours with ease, but is still having trouble moving the arms forward. We have lowered the crib, put covers on the outlets, removed a shelf from his changing table, and installed a gate. It seems like the baby proofing will be a long process. I am shocked by the number of areas he can reach without crawling!

We went to a "Messy Morning" class, put on by the NKC school district. He was given pudding, jello, bananas, noodles, and whipped cream. It was a blast! He did not have any trouble making a mess! The little girl across the table, Lily, was flirting with him (see video below).

We finally made it downtown to First Friday to see our favorite Art "Nerdbots"! Uncle Nick and Aunt Angie have an awesome studio displaying their playful nerdy robots. Visit their website www.nerdbots.net to learn more about the bots!

We narrowly missed seeing Trent's godparents John and Kristen at First Friday. Even thought it doesn't look like it, Trent was so happy to see them!

As I type this up, I am realizing we had a very busy day on Friday....messy morning, park, First Friday. We met up with Sarah and Rachel for a quick lunch at Mackin Park (close to Cerner). Trent got to try out the swing for the first time. He liked it as long as he wasn't going too high. Sarah and Rachel are a bunch of nervous nillies when it comes to Trent -"he is going to choke on that!" "he is going to eat the woodchips!" "he is going to fall out of the swing!" Of course none of those things happened. It is sort of cute they are so protective.

Getting ready to go to church.

Week 32

2009-03-01T14:19:00.000-08:00

Tyler had his 2nd Birthday party this weekend at Air Zone. For those who have never been, it is a giant indoor play area filled with inflated slides and obstacle courses. From the group picture above you can see Tyler is quite the popular 2 year old =). Todd and I were expecting Trent to love this place and our excitement grew all Saturday long. Once we got there, he was not himself and starting crying almost immediately. I think all the noise and people might have frightened him (you wouldn't think, because he has been to the Snyder house plenty!) He eventually warmed up to the place and had a good time.

Birthday Boy!

Madalyn knows how to eat a cupcake...icing first!

"Mom, this duck won't quack!"

Tyler was completely fearless (as usual) on all of the obstacles.

MU vs KU Game

Trent get away from the Kansas fan!!

Fuzzy family picture

Grandma Updates: We are so thankful to say that both Grandmothers are doing great! Grandma Belcher is home now and I think enjoying the fact she cannot dust for a couple of weeks! Grandma Hemerson pace maker is getting more oxygen to her brain which allows her to be more alert and have a new found clarity.

Week 31

2009-02-22T17:56:00.000-08:00

This week we visited both Grandma Belcher and Grandma Hemerson in the hospital. Unfortunately, Grandma Belcher had a heart attack last weekend. We are glad to report that after her surgery she seems to be doing great! Hopefully, she will get to come home early this week. Grandma Hemerson (my Grandma on mom's side) is also recovering quickly after her pace maker surgery. Trent is a little sad in the picture above, because he was worrying about his Grandma's.

Happy 2nd Birthday Madalyn! Madalyn had her birthday at Crayola Cafe in Crown Center. It was adorable to see all the little ones around the table. They even got to draw on the windows!!

Here is Tyler drawing behind the window. He saw Trent and said "Hey Tent!"

Cooper Philbrick writing his name 3 times! I couldn't believe how much the Philbrick boys have grown.

Madalyn had the cutest hot pink party dress on. I really need to have a girl next (or a boy that I can dress up...jk of course).

What do you mean there is no steak on the menu?

I think Carson looks so much like Cooper did at that age. They are such handsome boys!

Birthday Girl!

Trent is getting so close to crawling. He can pretty much get anywhere he wants to with rolling, so that may delay the crawling. I found him with the cell phone charger in hand, just a second from putting it in his mouth. We need to start baby proofing soon!

You now may get a naked bum picture each week. I just cannot resist. He is anxiously awaiting his bath time. He loves the water!

Week 30

2009-02-15T18:56:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day! We took Trent to get some 6 month (really 6.5) pictures. I am not sure what I was thinking taking him at nap time, but he was pretty good for the photographer and we got several cute shots.

Will you be mine?
I found out that the Huggies size 5 Jumbo box makes a perfect boat for Trent. I didn't account for Caesar, he really wanted in.

The Dunn boys came over on Saturday morning to play while their parents ran a 4 mile race for Brain Cancer downtown. In the evening we took Trent to their house while we went on a date (Valentine's). He had a blast and didn't seem to want to leave. That might be because he got to stay up until 9:30 or maybe it was the eating naked on the floor? For more cute pictures go to the Dunn blog - http://dunnsstinkers.blogspot.com/.

Where did my baby go?

Here is the peaches picture. I have missed several of the fruits, but he is loving all of them. The only food he really isn't into is peas, and who can blame him?

Reminder: When feeding biter biscuits, undress and put bib on. Bath will be necessary after!

Whoever invented the mesh feeder is a genius! We put frozen bananas and blueberries in it and he loves it. It also keeps him happy for at least 20 minutes.

How in the world did I go 29 weeks without a picture of his hiney?

Videos- 1st- Trent playing in the toy box.

2nd- Trent usually goes into his jumper for the last 10 minutes of the day before bath time. He gets all of his excess energy out and usually squeals pretty loud. It is cute when he is so tired that he laughs/cries at the same time.

Week 29

2009-02-08T18:54:00.001-08:00

I really failed with taking pictures this week! We all got sick with the flu and I started my new job working with my parents. I had to call in sick my second day, thankfully my bosses understand =). Trent is rolling around like a crazy man and is getting close to crawling. He will stay up on all fours, but needs to gain some more upper body strength to keep his belly off the ground.

This weekend we went to Todd's parents house to celebrate Tom's birthday. I bet next year he might have someone on his lap blowing out that candle!

I promise next week I will have more pictures and maybe a video!

Week 28

2009-01-31T14:31:00.001-08:00

Okay, because I only took two pictures this week it is going to be short and sweet!

We went to a Parents as Teachers class this week- Ready, Set, Walk. Basically it was a room full of babies ages 6 months - 1 year olds playing on the floor while a physical therapist talked to the parents about preparing for walking. Trent was a riot with the other little ones. The older ones would crawl over and takes his toys and he would take them right back! One little girl came over while he was doing tummy time and patted his behind =). He started laughing at something and just couldn't stop which eventually interrupted the discussion and had all the parents laughing with him.

On Saturday we took him to the park to take advantage of the 60+ degree weather. His first trip down the slide was a success! He loved it.

Here is a picture of us reading before bed. His favorites are Goodnight Moon and Sleepy Bunny.

A look back at 6 months ago. Trent was 2 weeks old and oh so tiny! I just love looking at his newborn pics!

Newborn Pictures by Courtney Dec http://www.decdoutphotography.com/

It is getting harder and harder to get a good weekly picture. Once he finds the paper he wants to eat it....

Week 27

2009-01-25T13:00:00.000-08:00

This is one of the last weeks that I will be a stay at home Mom =(. Although it is going to be very hard to leave him for 3 days a week, I am very excited to be working for my parents. Todd's Mom is going to be watching one day a week and I am pretty sure we will have someone coming over to our house for the other 2 days. I have been told the first month is going to be hard (more on me then him!), but it gets a little easier with time.

He looks a little evil in this picture! Like he is possibly planning on taking over the world.

Here are the men of my life (separated at birth apparently- darn clones!)

I took this picture of Caesar laying in the sun and it turned out pretty cool.

Cheese!

Week 26- 6 Months Old!

2009-01-19T12:37:00.001-08:00

Our sweet baby boy is 6 months old! In some ways we cannot image life before him, but in other ways the last 6 months have flashed before our very eyes! He went to the doctor for his check up and he is doing great! Developmentally he is right on track- sitting, "talking" and grabbing. He is now 25lbs and 29 inches long- off the charts!
I think Caesar was getting jealous of Trent's weekly picture. Right after I picked him up Caesar hopped up and struck a pose. Silly dog.

Week 25

2009-01-11T12:58:00.000-08:00

Well, we finally did it- Trent is sleeping in his crib! We started sleep training on Wednesday night and it has been very challenging and rewarding. I created a log to keep myself in check with the "Ferber Method". Here is the log for Wednesday night and Saturday night. Hopefully we can have a lot more nights like Saturday!

Wednesday Night
Placed in crib at 7:26.
Crying
Soothed at 7:29 for 2 minutes
Crying loud
Soothed at 7:36 for 2 minutes
Crying loud
Soothed at 7:48 for 2 minutes
Crying with periods of quite
Soothed at 8:00
Crying softly
8:06 – Asleep!
1:30- awake for binkie
2:33- awake for binkie
3:41- awake for binkie
5:00- awake for binkie
6:00- awake-Todd getting ready
6:15- same as 6:00
7:40- Awake for the day

Saturday Night
6:58pm- Down for bed
7:00- Asleep
8:10am-Awake

Trent I think you might have something on your shirt....SOOO BIG!!

This picture reminds me of Bam Bam off of the Flintstones. Watch out this is the real thing!

Here is green beans for the first time. I have noticed with each new food he tries he gives these three looks one right after the other. Once you give him a couple more bites he is much more pleasant and he really likes green beans now. See ya later Mom, I am going to Grandma and Grandpa's house!He doesn't quite get the gravity thing yet.

I had to ask Todd to take a picture of Trent and me, because I don't have very many. I guess that is the price you pay when you are the photographer in the family.

Trent was invited to go swimming with his buddy Tyler. For some reason I was a little hesitant, but he really enjoyed the pool. Tyler showed him the ropes and was an old pro in the pool. We hope to go again very soon!

I guess swimming really took it out of him. He took a 3 hour nap after =).

Week 24

2009-01-04T15:48:00.001-08:00

Trent has started getting camera shy- I love his bashful look.

We are introducing one or two new veggies a week: This is peas for the first time. NOT his favorite!

Carrots went over a lot better. Stayed tuned for next weeks green beans and or sweet potato...

On New Year's Eve day some of the Snyder's got together at Patty O'Quigley's. Trent loved being in his highchair eating with the big kids. Too bad he only got to eat his wipe container.

New Year's Eve was a quite night for us. We stayed in ordered pizza and watched "Dark Knight". Trent was down by 8 and we ended up going to bed around 12:05.

On Saturday we took advantage of the 60+ degree weather and played outside with the dog. Caesar was running around the yard like crazy, and Trent giggled hysterically! I got some of it on the video below.

Week 23- Christmas!!

2008-12-27T20:31:00.000-08:00

This week has been a little crazy and I forgot to take the weekly picture! So I had to improvise and use paint to get it accurate!

Gavin and Regan spent the night this week, unfortunately their dad had to have emergency heart surgery. Jason has been released and hopefully feeling better. Jason, we are praying for you. Gavin said they would be Trent's older brothers for the night and they did a great job!
Aunt Tiffany flew in from Colorado early this week. Trent liked to grab her face and pull her hair, and she never complained. She is the best at feeding him cereal. We somehow need to convince her that she needs to move closer!
We went to Todd's Mom side of the family Christmas in Belton on Christmas Eve. There were 5 new babies this year. Trent really enjoyed "playing" with them! The food was great and we really enjoying see everyone. One highlight was when cousin Kynzie and Elijah sang Amazing Grace together (I think they are about 4 and 5). So precious!
Christmas has always been my favorite time of the year. This being Trent's first, it was more magical and special. Trent was off his routine almost every day/night this week, and he handled it like a pro. Happy and smiling for most of the events, he slept in my arms here and there.

This picture was at 6:30 Christmas morning. Santa came early this year at the Snyder house!

Santa brought cousin Collin a white bull. Trent gave it a try, but didn't like getting bucked off.

Here is Aunt Sammy with the sleepy boy. Sam has the great honor of being the first to give Trent icing....yes I said icing and yes I gave her some grief about it =). We will know whom to blame if Trent does not eat his veggies!

Here are some of the Snyder (Kluver) beauties- Rachel, Emily and Makenna.

Differences in Christmas':
1. Belcher: 6 people
Snyder: 26 people (two families were not there)

2. Belcher- Pass out the gifts. Casually open gifts individually. Taking pictures, trying on clothing, and play with toys as we get them. Quiet, calm, and relaxed.
Snyder- Santa: Grandkids start at the top of the stairs to see if Santa had arrived. They come down once Grandpa gives the OK. Each person had a stocking laid out for them in a chair with their gifts.
Afternoon exchange: Grandkids pass out gifts. Sing Silent Night. Someone yells 1..2..3 and everyone starts. Wrapping paper starts to mound in the center of the room. As you open gifts from others, thank them by yelling across the room above the noise. Pause when you hear a squeal of joy to see one of the children open something they have "always wanted". Once the room clears out the boys like to ball up the wrapping paper and throw it at each other. Finally several garbage bags are filled up with paper and boxes.

3. Belcher- After presents we had a really nice brunch and played games. This year we played Taboo, Up and Down, Scategories, and Balderdash.

Snyder- After presents we play with our new gifts, talk, and play games. This year dinner was later in the afternoon so we left somewhat early to get Trent to bed.

Here is a video of the presents being passed out at the Snyder Christmas exchange:

Week 22

2008-12-22T13:02:00.000-08:00

We gave Trent his first food this week! His first meal was oatmeal cereal. He did a great job eating and didn't even spit much out. He likes to grab the spoon and feed himself and likes to get very messy! Mom is going to have to get use to that, for I know it will only get worse!
The neighbor girls got out of school early the day it snowed and wanted Trent and Caesar to come out and play. We only lasted about 10 minutes, because it was really cold, but we had fun. Trent got to try out his new snowsuit from Grammy!
Trent likes to play in his crib, but he doesn't like to sleep in it! Yes, he is still in the bassinet next to our bed. It is probably less that he doesn't like, more like he isn't used to it. I eventually need to let go and get him into his big boy crib =). I really like having him so close at night. I can just roll over and put his binkie back in or give his belly a rub. I am giving myself a deadline- January 11th. He will be 6 months and he will be sleeping in his crib!

"Mom, where is my ball?"

Trent and I traveled to Columbia to see Rachel graduate from college. Unfortunately, they had the service at 4pm on a workday, and Todd was unable to join us. Trent was great for the trip with the exception of the ride home. He like it when the crowd would clap during the ceremony, I think he thought he did something good each time. Sarah and Andy are also graduating (Masters) this semester. Congrats to all 3 of them!

Here is a video of Trent eating his first cereal and him going crazy in the bath!

Week 21

2008-12-13T18:37:00.000-08:00

I love taking up close pictures of Trent's face. He looks he gives me, I wish I could capture them all! He was kind of sad in this one, because I took the 21 week paper he was eating away from him. He is in much better spirits now that both teeth have broken the skin (he got his second one right after the first one).

We went back to Children's Mercy this week for a follow up on his surgery. His kidney has shrunken down quite a bit and his ureter is twice as small. Both signs that the procedure worked great. We will go back for another ultrasound and to schedule his next surgery in 3 months. - Weight 22.4 lbs Length 28.5 inches

He has to keep one eye on the dog at all times!

We went to Zona Rosa to meet Santa! Trent didn't seem to mind St. Nick. I made sure I sat him on his lap facing me so he never really got a good look =). They had a nice set up there and we even got a free 5 X 7 and teddy bear.

Here is a video of Trent giving himself a bath and one of him rolling over.

Week 20

2008-12-07T14:39:00.000-08:00

Trent had a quite eventful week- he saw snow for the first time, met Santa, and got his first tooth! We didn't even realize he was teething until Thursday when I put my finger in his mouth and felt something hard on his lower gums. At least that explains the drool and fussiness recently. He has not been himself since, but I think that is pretty normal. Hopefully we will get our smiley baby back very soon!

Had to stick him on the adorable $100 rocking horse at the new Dillards. When he looks back at photos he can at least think we spoiled him =).
"Deer in the headlights" look.....

Todd's parents took us to the "Singing Christmas Tree" at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church this weekend. The show was spectacular! We were a little anxious taking Trent, but he did great and was asleep by the first song. Santa and the Misses were sweet enough to let us take a quick picture.

We had our yearly Christmas dinner with the Dunn family. Jason works at DST with Todd and actually he worked with both of us, way back when at Farmland (Marconi). We could not believe how much Gavin and Regan have grown! Gavin said the prayer before dinner and was so sweet to pray for our safe trip home from Smithville. Cyndi outdid herself (as usual) with a delicious chili dinner and cheesecake for dessert!

Week 19

2008-11-30T16:58:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!! Trent enjoyed spending time with both the Belcher and Snyder families. On Thursday we got to eat TWO Thanksgiving dinners. Trent stuck with his bottle, but don't worry Grandma and Grammy he will be ready next year!

Todd got a picture of Trent standing for the first time by himself (not really standing, just holding his own weight). He is only good for about 5-10 seconds and then he gets the wobbly legs =).

His smile and laugh are very contagious! He is such a mild mannered baby and loves to be around people.

Apparently this ball is very tasty!

Here is my brother Nick teaching Trent the basics in baby dancing....

Week 18

2008-11-23T14:46:00.001-08:00

Guess what Trent started doing this week? He is sitting up!! We cannot believe how quickly he is growing up. It happened overnight it seems. He is still very wobbly, but can sit for about 2-5 minutes.

Trent has started a new trend this week of waking in the middle of the night to eat. I think he must be going through a grow spurt (if that is possible!). He has also not been big on naps recently. I think he is getting his mother back for those 10 hours of sleep nights from weeks 7-17.

Strapped in like this you would think he is getting ready to go into space, but no it is his new highchair =).

My brother and his wife invited us to see their new place downtown. It is amazing. Very modern, with exposed brick, concrete floors, and a sliver Christmas tree! I just love it. I don't think Casear would fair well downtown, otherwise I would seriously consider moving! I am sorry that I didn't take any pictures of the place (Angie, if you are reading this you need to blog about your new place with some pics!)

I have been meaning to mention Nick and Angie's business adventure - NERDBOTS. They create the cutest Robots made out of antique parts. You can see their creations at www.nerdbots.net or they have a shop set up for First Friday downtown. I hopefully will be getting one soon.

Here is my niece Jamila posing for the camera. She is such a little model.

Here is Trent's mom...I mean Aunt...Sarah =). Here is my brother John with my nephew Benjamin.

Here is a video of Trent in the morning. He wakes up so happy!

Week 17

2008-11-17T16:31:00.000-08:00

I have been slacking in the picture department this week! Last weekend Trent's friend Tyler came over to watch some football. Most of the pictures I got were of him running out of the frame, but I got a good one of him giving some kisses. Chris, don't worry I will get rid of these before they are in high school =).
I put him in the sink while I was getting his bath ready. He found himself in the mirror and was pretty fascinated.

He loves his baths, but not so much when he is taken out and cold.

Can't a guy watch some football and drink coffee in peace?

4 Month Appointment: 20 lbs (>95%), 27 inches (>95%) , Head 17 inches (70%)

Week 16

2008-11-03T17:33:00.000-08:00

Well, we had a very busy week with Halloween, Trent's baptism, Mom's Birthday, and other random fun things! Trent went as a skunk for Halloween. We decided it would be fun to put him in his Bumbo chair, ring the door bell and run! The grandparents really got a kick out of this and were taking pictures like crazy. Caesar was relieved to wear his Halloween shirt instead of the dinosaur costume I got him last year.

Grandma was generous to give two Snicker bars and two bags of M&M's because she knows they are Trent's favorites! I think we were the only trick-or-treaters at the Snyder house (no one wants to walk up that scary driveway!)

With weather in the 70's on Friday, Trent enjoyed playing in the leaves.

Saturday night we celebrated Trent's baptism. He was some what crabby in church, but thankfully passed out right before the baptism. He didn't wake even when the water was poured on his head. He sleeps like his daddy. He looks so cute in his big boy clothes! Here are Trent's good looking Godparents- John and Kristen Snyder (ok soon to be Snyder!)

Todd's Grandpa was so nice to help celebrate the Baptism with a prayer and blessing.

On Sunday morning we had brunch at the Snyder house to celebrate my Mom's birthday. We were happy to have her sister Cartha in town for the baptism and her birthday. Trent continues to heal from his surgery and is yet to complain.

I took this picture right before his morning jog..

Trent rode in Grammy and Grandpa Belcher's van in his big boy car seat for the first time.

I guess I finally know what a skunk says....

Week 15 + Surgery Update

2008-10-31T10:43:00.001-07:00

**DISCLAIMER**

Below there are two pictures of Trent’s incision from his surgery. It might be TMI for some of you!

Trent had his Ureterostomy on Wednesday morning. We arrived at Children's Mercy at 6am; he mostly slept in my arms until they were ready for him. We meet with the doctor and the anesthesiologist. The nurses took him into surgery at 7:30am. Handing him over to go into surgery was very hard for Todd and me. We waited in a very nice "waiting room" with my parents and Todd's mom. He was out of surgery in two hours, but we had to wait another hour for him to wake. It seemed more like 24 hours. This is how they brought him to us in the reunion area...

He was still very groggy and doped up for most of the day.

We didn't sleep well the night before the surgery so Todd and I were happy when they sent us home that same night. We were able to catch up on our sleep in the comfort of our on bed.

The next day the doctor said we could take out the tube that was coming from his incision, which I did very carefully. I forgot to take a picture with it in, but this is what it looked like the day after surgery.

We had to go to Target to get new diapers that will cover his ureter, so we decided he needed a toy for being so brave! Meet Peter the penguin..they are getting to be good buddies!

He is recovering amazingly. He doesn't seem to be bothered by the incision at all. We are so relieved that this surgery is behind us!

This should probably go on Week 16, oh well....Happy Halloween!

Week 14 + Kidney Update

2008-10-26T16:35:00.000-07:00

Todd was playing with Trent on the floor while I was in the computer room. Todd started yelling for me to come quick, but by the time I got in there he had rolled over for the first time!! He finally showed me his new trick 3 days later. I will try to get in on video for next week.

It just started getting cool in KC this week. Trent still needs used to his new doggy hat!

On Thursday we went to Children's Mercy to get a kidney scan. The worst part was getting the IV and catheter put in. He screamed louder than I have ever heard and his face was bright red! He was strapped down on the table for the hour-long scan. He was such a champ and barely cried.

The results showed that his left kidney is not fully functioning and is not draining properly due to a blockage. Trent is having surgery this Wednesday to have a ureterostomy (tube from kidney to bladder will be moved to outside his body to drain into diaper. This will be in place until he is one and then he will need a second surgery to fix the blockage and sew the ureter back. Hopefully these surgeries will allow him to have to healthy and functioning kidneys.

Weight 19.1 lbs

13 Weeks (3 months)

2008-10-17T20:08:00.000-07:00

Sarah, Karen, Trent and I went to the Red Barn Farm in Weston this week. We picked up a couple of pumpkins and ended up having a photo shoot with Trent! It was perfect weather and Trent loved everything except for the wheelbarrow ride =).

"I'll take the pumpkin in the middle with the blue pants on."
"What are you looking at Mom?"

There are 3 videos of him this week. I know...I know, but he is just too cute to pick one. The first one is of Trent laughing (he doesn't really start until 1 m 20 sec into the video). The others are just random moments.

Week 12

2008-10-11T19:40:00.000-07:00

"I am not chunky...my diaper is just too tight!!"

We had a little party for the Mizzou VS Nebraska game on Saturday. Trent was in his MU gear cheering for the first half before he crashed! The next morning he pretty much gave me a good summary of the MU strategy....TOUCHDOWN!! The final score was 52-17- MU.

Trent and I go over to my parents house often during the week. Sometimes we get lucky and find Aunts and Uncles. Aunt Sarah thinks that he looks like a Cabbage Patch kid!

Trent is getting more and more vocal each week. Here is a video of him talking right after we sang the ABC's to him. In next week posting you will get to hear him laugh!

Week 11

2008-10-05T18:12:00.000-07:00

We went to Children's Mercy Hospital this week to get Trent's heart murmur checked out. The doctor said the murmur is fine, but found a small hole in his heart. The hole will most likely close up over time and this is pretty common with babies this age.

I love this picture of Todd reading to Trent!

If you click on the picture to view it larger, you can see that these two are making the same funny face.

Trent isn't fitting in the baby tub any longer, so we upgraded to the big boy tub. He really loves it! He kicks and waves his arms while screaming with joy. Unfortunately, my camera battery died before I could catch the excitement =(.

Week 10

2008-09-26T18:09:00.000-07:00

This week we went to Jamesport to check out the Amish community with Todd's parents. It was Trents first road trip. He did a fabulous job in his car seat and didn't cry at all during the hour long trip. We stopped at a little farm called Grabers with fresh produce and good apple cider. Next we went in town for lunch and then went to a few shops.

After such success with the first road trip we decided to try another! Sarah, Trent, and I went to Powell Gardens outside of Lee Summit. The gardens were beautiful and I was surprise at how much was still in bloom. Trent did not do as well on this trip. He doesn't really like his car seat and he vocalized this for most of the way home.

Here is Caesar and Trent just hanging out on the couch together. Right now neither one knows what to think about the other. Caesar sure does like the smell of his dirty diapers though!

Amanda and Kaelyn came over this week to visit. Kaelyn is a natural with babies! I will be calling her to babysit in a few years!

Trent loves his earth loving tee-shirt from Aunt Tiffany!

Trent weights 17 lbs now and is wearing size 6-9 month clothing!

Week 9

2008-09-20T17:58:00.000-07:00

Another week has pasted and it was a great one! Todd's parents threw a little party for Trent to meet all of Grandpa Tom's family. Below are cousins Eva (left) and Skye or she also goes by Hanna Montana!

Here is Great Grandma Belcher (left) and great Aunt Tricia (is that right?)

The party was a good excuse for Todd to try out his meat smoker. Below are the finished products. The pork shoulders were very tasty!

Trent continues to "coo" a lot and even yells "MAMA!" when he is mad. It gets easier each day to get him to smile. As you can see, Todd is getting to be a pro with the dirty diapers and feedings. When he gets home from work he tends to be a baby hog, and Trent loves his Daddy time.

I find it somewhat ironic that Todd was the first person to give him something he shouldn't have. Todd is always giving me a hard time for feeding Caesar human food. Todd also has said once Trent is old enough to eat he wants him to eat really healthy. What does he give him to lick....a grape popsicle! Trent gave a crazy face and immediately started licking it until he realized it was cold! Todd said "aleast it is sugarfree". Oh dear....

Here is a quick video of Trent's first look in the mirror.

Week 8

2008-09-13T09:40:00.000-07:00

Trent got to meet his Uncle Andy, Aunt Amber, and cousins Makenna, Dani and Delaney for the first time this weekend! We were at the house to celebrate John and Delaney's birthdays. I think Delaney was a little sad when we sang Happy Birthday, because she had to share with stinky old Uncle John (happy 30th John!)

"Hello....no man I wasn't sleeping"

Pass the baby!

Trent turned two months on the 11th. At his 2 month checkup he was 25.25 inches and 15 lbs 8 oz! 100 percentile for height and weight! This little man does not miss many meals.

Trent is scheduled for another kidney scan at Children's Mercy on October 23rd. Also the doctor said she still hears the heart murmur and would like a cardiologist to look at him. That will also be sometime in October. She said it was just a precautionary measure and most likely it will fix itself before he is one. Please continue to keep him in your prayers.

Here is a cute video of Daddy singing Trent his nightly ABC's!

A friend let me barrow this funny little contraption that lets babies sit up before they actually can...it is called a bumbo. I accidentally keep calling it a bimbo.

Week 7

2008-09-04T19:10:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that he is almost 2 months old already! I had fun "dressing him up" as a baseball player. It is the closest thing to dressing up until we have a girl. I happen to catch him sneezing and I thought it was a cute picture. No major milestones this week, unless you count his first booger!

We got the exersaucer for Trent to try out. He is really about a month too young for it, but he seemed to enjoy it. Caesar was very scared and confused of the toy that talked and played music.

Just some random pictures.....

Kidney update

2008-08-30T09:03:00.001-07:00

We went back to Children Mercy Hospital to get another kidney ultrasound and to speak with the Urologist. It seems we are not completely in the clear with his kidney issues. Both of his kidneys continue to dilate and they found what they believe is a blockage. He will have a test next month to test each of the kidney function levels. Please keep him in your thought and prayers.
Weight 14.1 lbs.

Week 6

2008-08-29T21:09:00.001-07:00

It is official...Trent is smiling! It is not very consistent yet, but we love it!

I figure we will have tons of pictures of Trent happy and smiling and he will not have the "newborn" cry forever so here is an example of him when is not so happy.

This is the look I get when I swaddle him before bed. I think he can hear the velcro on the blanket and he gets upset. We always swaddles him for bedtime and it really helps with keeping his hands from flailing knocking himself awake. He often tries to break out of his swaddle, I wake up to hear him grunting and growling and the bassinet swaying! Thankfully he doesn't cry just wants his arms free.

8/21/08- He slept through the night for the first time!!!! He went down at 10:30pm and didn't wake up until 6:00am. Then he went back to sleep from 6:30am-9:00! 9 hours of sleep for me! Wow I never thought I would say that ever again.

Week 5

2008-08-29T19:48:00.001-07:00

Tyler came over to play this week! Tyler is so gentle and loving with Trent. Whenever he finds a bottle or a blinkie he feels Trent really wants it...even when he is fast asleep =). I can just imagine the trouble these two are going to get into over the next couple of decades.

Here is Daddy mocking Trent as he sleeps on the bed. Trent is sleeping really well and only gets up once or twice a night to eat and usually goes right back to bed.

This week he has started to like playing on the ground. He is just now starting to grip onto toys and fingers. His head will turn when he hears a familiar voice and he loves when people sing to him.

Trent enjoys being in the sling close to Mommy. This allows me to get most of the household duties done with him in tow. As this pictures shows he usually crashes after a sling session~

Week 3 and 4

2008-08-23T23:22:00.000-07:00

Week 3

Weight 10.1 lbs and 22.5 inches long.

We do not have too many pictures or memory of what we did in week 3 and 4! Todd went back to work this week so I am guessing that I why I didn’t have the camera out more. Grandma Barb came over on Monday and held Trent for a couple of hours while I clean house and took a nap. What a life saver! Grandma Karen has brought over dinner several times the past few weeks. We hope she knows she doesn’t have to cook every time she wants to see her grandbaby =).

Trent got to meet his Aunty Tiffany from Colorado this week! She loves to hold her nephew. She was so nice to babysit while I ran errands. Tiffany also took our other "child" Caesar out for a walk while she was here. We miss you already Tiffany!

The Dunn Family came over this week to visit. Gavin was so adorable holding Trent. He held him for a good 15 minutes! They brought several gifts for Trent-a Royals outfit, his first football, and another outfit for when he is a little older.

Week 4

7 days have passed since we have taken a picture of Trent! We are officially bad parents!

Friday- Leaving Trent for the first time
We decided we needed a date night so we left Trent with Granny and Grandpa Belcher. We went to dinner at Jason’s Deli and went to a movie. We only called to check up on him 3 times! It was so nice to have a night out!

Week 2

2008-08-23T22:13:00.001-07:00

Weight 9.2 lbs 22.5 inches long

Saturday
First Pool Party
Today we went to Donnie Dec’s 30th Birthday Party. Trent slept for most of the party, but he loved seeing his best buddies Cooper, Carson, Tyler, and Madalyn!

Sunday- Poop! Warning Too Much Information!!
After 7 days of waiting he finally pooped! I was feeding him in the nursery when it happened. He had been tricking us several times a day with his gas so I just stuck my finger in his diaper to make sure it wasn't the real thing and I got a surprise. I called Todd in to help me celebrate his dirty diaper (he had been uncomfortable for a couple of days). We jumped the gun on changing him and ending up going through at least 3 diapers! Another funny diaper story was when Todd was changing him another time and he looked away for just a second and then says "how did Trent get all that water on his face?" I looked in horror to see that Trent had given himself a little yellow shower...yuck!

Tuesday
Finally his umbilical cord fell off so we can give him a real bath!

Thursday
Today we went to the Riverside Park to help celebrate Benjamin’s 2nd birthday! The kids had a blast playing at the park and the food was delicious!

Week 1

2008-08-23T13:31:00.000-07:00

Friday - Trent was born at 09:02 pm weighing 9 lbs and 2 ounces and 22 inches tall. Labor was long, about 20 hours, but it was not very painful (thank goodness for my epidural!) Todd was very involved with the labor process and was an awesome pushing coach, counting and offering encouragement when I needed it. The doctor placed him right on my chest once he was born. Todd cut the umbilical cord. We were so overwhelmed with emotion…he was perfect in every way. Several people were waiting in the lobby for hours waiting the news of Trent's arrival. I remember thinking how big he was and no wonder his kicks had hurt so much! Everyone got a chance to visit but left soon after because it was already 10:30pm.

Trent slept in a rolling bassinet next to my bed. Todd was stuck on a long skinny couch (they ran out of cots) that was not comfortable! Trent slept fairly well the first night allowing us to get a couple of hours of much needed sleep.

Saturday
Today was the day of visitors. Visitors included both sets of Grandparents, Great-Grandma and Grandpa Belcher, Great-Grandma Hemerson, Aunt Rachel, Sarah, Tricia, Vusala, Kristen, Uncle Tony, Jim, John, Chris, Mike, and William. The Coffins- Angie, Chris and Tyler, the Decs-Donnie, Courtney, and Madalyn and the Philbricks- Rusty, Ashley, Cooper and Carson also visited!

Sunday
Today we brought the little guy home. I sat in the back seat and Todd drove slower than a 90 year old granny on the way home. I am afraid to say that we were not ready to go home. There were no nurses to take the baby to the nursery at night, no doctors to ask a million questions, no food brought to my bedside! Trent did a fabulous job his first night home and let us sleep at least two hours at a time.

Wednesday- After a couple of high level ultrasounds during my pregnancy they told us that your left kidney had several cysts and that it was not functioning. Well, we got wonderful news today...the doctor said you did not need surgery to remove your kidney and that in fact your left kidney was now working! This is truly a miracle!

Thursday - First Trip Out of the House (beside doctor’s appointments)
We decided to get out of the house and go to the Zona Rosa shopping center. We arrived at Barnes and Noble and 2 minutes into our trip Trent started screaming. Todd knew what book he wanted so he ran up and got it. Several women looked at me with sympathetic eyes as his newborn cries filled the whole store (it seemed). By the time we checked out Trent was fast asleep, but we decided to go home because we were afraid you would wake up!

Friday- New Parents mistake
This evening around 11pm Trent was crying non-stop and we didn't know what to do. He hadn't had a BM since he left the hospital so we were convinced that his digestive system was broken. We called the nurse line and they suggested we bring him to the hospital. Our first visit to Children's Mercy North! The doctor told us it was normal for breast feed babies to not have a BM for up to 10 days and basically said to wait it out. Thankfully a couple of days later he had a dirty diaper!! Don't worry there will be more detail on that in the next blog =)

Weight at end of week is 8.6 lbs.

And Baby Makes Three!

2008-08-23T12:56:00.000-07:00

Amazingly it has already been over a month since our little Trent was born! We wanted to start documenting all the exciting things going on in our lives so we can share with friends and family. I am not too sure how this blogging works, but I will give it a shot.

This week Trent has started smiling! The first time was something special when he looked up at me with his big blue eyes and recognized me with a smile. It truly melted my heart! Here is a pic from when he was 18 days old. I don't think he realized he was smiling, but it is my only one on camera. I am sure there will be many more to come.