Baby 5

We are excited to announce that we have a new baby coming in April of 2013!  Choosing to have another child is difficult.  I was ready for number one, okay when number two came, shocked that number 3 snuck in, frustrated that 4 had such perceived bad timing-and then this time.  This little number 5 has been the hardest.  Coming off of birth control was the hardest decision I've made at this point-I cried before and after my Drs appointment.    3 of my 4 are in school.  Vinny is an easy kid who still takes naps.  I felt a glimpse of freedom that had been only on the horizon for so long. And yet, the nagging didn't stop.  I couldn't find the peace I searched for. So, the decision was made and here we are.
I'm so excited and overwhelmed.  I wish I was in better shape, weighed less, and was younger.  But hey, I'm a mother of four, and here I find myself.  I've been pretty sick and don't enjoy that, but it will hopefully pass within a few weeks.
We are pretty sure it is another boy.  I thought for sure Ammon was a girl, and Vinny-so maybe I'm just changing tactics ;)
Probably no one would ever believe me if I told them I wanted a boy.  But honestly, I am so in love with each of my boys and each one is so different-that another boy would be wonderful.  And honestly, a very comfortable idea for me.  My gut is saying it is a boy for what that is worth.
We are also setting a record in the surgical residency program for the most children ever by a surgeon resident here at the Marshfield Clinic.  We had been tied at 4.

First Day of School!

Dear Ammon,   

You are so excited to be in Kindergarten.  You have at least two friends in your class, and wanted to play as soon as you came in the door.  I tried to get you to give me a hug, but you didn't want to.  You gave me a high-five!  You are very smart and I am looking forward to you having a good year.  I will miss having you at home and playing with Vinny.  You have been a wonderful good brother.  Love, Mom

Dear Ivan, 

You are starting 2nd grade.  You are so upset that there are just girls at your table!  In fact, you wouldn't even go to your table!  I'm sure by high-school your thoughts will change!  For now, you wanted me to stay.  I hope your day is getting better!  You are smart, and athletic-great at the skateboard, rip-stick and basketball.  I am so glad you are my little boy.

Love, Mom

Dear Orlando, 

You are now in third grade!  I am so proud of what a great student you are!  You are smart and nice.  It is hard to be the oldest, but you do a great job.  You are more responsible all the time.  You are crazy about your Lego's and like Frisbee Golf.  You help with Vinny, and  are working on earning your Wolf for Cub-Scouts.  I am so proud of you and hope you have a great 3rd grade year!

Love, Mom