Kaden Barr - birth story

It's crazy to think that my last post was two days before my life was flipped (turned upside down) haha couldn't help myself.

My sweet baby boy, Kaden Barr Kahalewaimaikalani Anderson, was born May 14th, 2015 at 11:55pm, weighing 7 lbs and measured 20.5 inches.

So, on the 13th, I had my doctor's appointment and he had told me that I was *almost* 3cm and still 80% effaced, from my last appointment. He stripped my membranes (OUCH!!) and went ahead and scheduled an induction date for the 1st of June and wanted to see me back next week. However, as I was leaving he told me "I would be really surprised if you made it to your appointment next week..." Uhh...things just got real for me right then and there...you mean I could have a baby in the next week?! AH!
After my appointment, I was having contractions...not Braxton Hicks, either. These felt different but they were not consistent at all so I brushed it off. Plus, they went away an hour later. My mother in law came over that afternoon to help me decorate the nursery and then I went to the rink. As I was there, my friends teased saying I could have a baby and they don't think they'll see me tomorrow for work (Learn to Skate). I was so sure they were wrong because it didn't feel like it was happening THIS soon....but you guys were right!

Right before bed, I noticed after I went to the bathroom that there was a lot of fluid that was different than discharge. I shrugged it off and went to bed. Well, of course I had to get up to go to the bathroom a few hours later and noticed that it was thinner and more abundant. So, as I came back to bed I said to Kaleb, "Sooo...don't freak out, but my water may have broken". He was half asleep and mumbled an "uh huh okay" and went back to sleep. Well, when he got up that morning, that changed! He was FREAKING out and kept asking me questions and became more anxious when I didn't have the answer. So, to calm his mind, I called the after hours line at my OB's office and left a message. Kaleb went off to the gym and came back and I still hadn't heard back. So, as he showered and got ready for work, I decided to call the hospital labor and delivery line, just in case. I explained to the nurse that I thought my water had broken and she told me to just come in and have that fluid tested, just to be sure. I told Kaleb and was surprisingly calm about it and even told him he didn't need to come - I was so sure it was nothing. But, he was insistent that he be there and called his boss to tell him he would not be at work that day. I took my time in getting my hospital bag and diaper bag together and didn't bother showering or putting makeup on because I figured I would be back to do all that later that day. OOPS.
So, we made our way to the hospital at 8am and my nurse was doubtful that my water had actually broken, but went ahead and did two different tests.
Side note: I was SO glad Kaleb ended up coming with me because they wanted me in a hospital gown and to stay in one of the delivery rooms.... SO DAUNTING!!
At 9am, she came back with a surprised look on her face - the fluid tested positive and that meant my water had indeed been broken!! I was having a baby today!
They quickly put the IV in and put me on pitocin since I hadn't felt any contractions yet. I knew I wanted an epidural and the nurse told me I could get it now before the contractions hit, but I was TERRIFIED. I wanted to wait as long as I could to just put it off...
Around 12:30pm, I felt one contraction and the nurse happened to be in my room and asked me what I was waiting for...did I still want the epidural? I gave her the green light and 15 minutes later, the anesthesiologist and his assistant came in. His assistant was the one who ended up doing it and I was freaking out...full on shakes all over my body! But I think some of it was from the fact that they upped my IV which made me cold.
Everyone was right...it felt like a little bee sting when they numbed the area and I was really worried for nothing. I didn't like feeling the pressure though...I could feel the catheter going up my spine, but also the assistant wasn't doing a great job and took FOREVER to get it in place, whereas when the tech came and helped him, he did it in one try and in 30 seconds haha.
My legs quickly fell asleep but I could still wiggle my toes - WEIRDEST FEELING EVER. Shortly after though, I began to feel really dizzy and tired and I tried telling my nurse but I was fading fast. I remember hearing an alarm going off and she put an oxygen mask on my face but everything at that point was really fuzzy. Kaleb had just gone to the bathroom in the room and I was worried because I couldn't see his face and that's all I wanted.
Apparently my blood pressure had dropped a lot and quickly from the epidural and they just needed to lower the amount of meds I was getting and everything leveled out. I remember feeling terrified because I felt like I was drifting away but was fighting to stay cognizant. But, as soon as everything leveled out, I felt just fine...
And then the waiting game began.
And the several refills of flavored ice chips. YUM.
My parents luckily got onto the next flight out to Salt Lake and my father in law picked them up around 6:30pm. At this point I was dilated to a 7 and was completely effaced and ready to go. At this point, I started barfing which I guess is normal when women hit 8-9 centimeters? Whatever that's what my sweet nurse said so I believe her. ;)
My parents got in around 7:30pm and I was still at a 7. My dad and FIL went to go get dinner and while they were gone, I was now measuring at a 9!
At 9:15, my doctor checked me, told me I was at a 9.5, and said he would be back in 30 minutes to start the pushing. I don't think that registered with me because I was still in disbelief that this was all happening...I was going to meet my son soon.
Well, 9:45 rolls around and 5 minutes later, I start pushing. After about an hour of pushing, they asked if I wanted a mirror. I was never interested in seeing the birth actually occurring but I figured it would give me motivation because everyone kept saying I was doing so well but didn't feel like I was progressing. It's incredible what a difference it made! I suddenly had this burst of energy and was able to push harder because I was getting so excited!
At 11:30, my doctor came in and said I was close but his poor little head was stuck under my pelvic bone and had to make his way under it and then things will start to happen fast.
He was right! I wanted to have this baby on the 14th, so another burst of energy came about and just 20 minutes later, my baby was here.
Kaden was the most beautiful thing I have ever seen and never have I ever felt such an intense amount of love for someone I had just laid eyes on.
He was so alert and his cry was so little, I was worried something was wrong. He had his umbilical cord wrapped around his neck - which was surprising to the doctor because his vitals never faltered. What a champ.
They laid him on my chest immediately and he and I just locked eyes as I was bawling my eyes out. He was here. And he was mine.
We stayed at the hospital for 2 more days, coming home Saturday afternoon. I'm so grateful for ALL the nurses I had...they were an incredible team.
Almost 2 months later and I cannot believe how incredibly blessed I am to have such an amazing baby.
There are no words to describe the love I feel for my baby boy.
Welcome to the world, Kaden!

After being hooked up the epidural...there's the magical button to up the dosage, if needed.

The Proposal...SO many good movies were playing!

How I told my family I was pregnant...

When the laundry is done, the house is clean, and the dishes have been put away...

I guess I'll blog about how I told Kaleb and our parents that I was pregnant.

So, you have to know, in October 2013(yes, two months after we got married) I told Kaleb I wanted to have a baby. This came as a shock to him because before we got married we were both very much on the same page about when we would start our family (after we were both done with school, so about two years). I was extremely baby hungry in October and it even caused a rift in our relationship because I thought it was because he didn't want a baby or start a family with me (ugh dramatic Deanna is NOT my favorite). We finally came up with a compromise - lets pray about it and go to the temple to find out if starting our family was meant to happen this soon. After weeks of praying and attending the temple, we had a very sweet moment together at the temple where we both received a very clear answer - our time would come in August. It was so comforting to know that the Lord was so mindful of us and we were both satisfied with the answer we received. So with that, here's how we found out we were pregnant!

Kaleb

So, I found out I was pregnant on September 9th. It was a Tuesday and I was supposed to start my period that previous weekend. 

Thursday the 4th rolls around (the day I'm supposed to have my period) and I bought a pregnancy test from the dollar store, just in case. Nighttime comes around and no period so I took the test and it was.....negative. The next morning I told Kaleb that I had taken a test and that it was negative and how sad I was. He told me not to worry and that it might just be too early to tell and to try again after the weekend. Well, I am super impatient, so I bought another dollar store test and tried again only to get another negative. It was at that point that I totally broke down and was mad/sad that I wasn't pregnant. All weekend I was a mess and feeling really down so I texted my friend Ali to ask if she had success with a dollar store test (and she had...which made me a little mad and a lot jealous that I wasn't receiving the same results) but she was great at just reassuring me that it might be too early and wait a couple days and try again. So I did.

Tuesday, I went to Smith's and bought the expensive kind (ugh pregnancy tests are expensive!!) on my way to the rink. My friends/coworkers were already there at the rink because we had planned on skating together before we had to begin teaching the college skating classes that day. I ran to the bathroom and quickly took the test, praying SO HARD that I would see a little + sign. After the longest 3 minutes of my life, I looked down to see the test was POSITIVE!!!

Yeah you bet I took a picture. I was in shock it was such a clear positive!!

I could hardly focus after, but I went on the ice and skated...but I was careful, only doing stroking and a few easy spins. Definitely didn't jump! I was already starting to feel paranoid ;) All day while teaching, I was thinking of ways to tell Kaleb when he texted me that he had tickets to go to a Real Salt Lake meet and greet and how we were going to that.

It was the longest event EVER. I wanted to wait and tell him when it was just us so I waited for us to get home. But, on the way home I casually mentioned that lemon poppyseed muffins sounded really good for breakfast and asked to stop at the store. He's so kind and without hesitation said "oh sure!" So, we get home from the store and I open up the muffins and sit on the couch, asking him to sit with me. I took a bite and then asked him to hold out his hand. I placed a poppyseed in his hand and he promptly threw it into his mouth. Silly kid. I placed another one in his palm and held it open and told him, "this is the size of your child right now".

He kinda smiled while looking at the poppyseed but I saw the light go off as his eyes snapped up to meet mine and asked if I was serious.

After I told him "uh, yeah!!" he immediately pulled me in for the biggest hug I think he's ever given me and we both started crying. In that moment, my heart grew and I felt a deeper love for my husband and future father of our children than I ever thought was even possible. 

Telling the In-Laws

We decided that we wanted to tell my in-laws that next Sunday, the 14th. It was really soon to start telling people but I'm horrible at keeping secrets and if anything were to happen, I would rather my family know rather than tell them after the fact.

The night before, we bought two books - "Guess How Much I Love You" and wrote in each of them "Please read to me May 2015!" as the method of how we would tell our parents.

Sunday, we went to my in-laws for breakfast and had a gift for them as a way to say thank you for putting together our new apartment for us while we were in Europe for a couple weeks.

Ahhh it is so fun to let people we love in on our little secret!!

Telling my parents

My parents came into town on the 18th for one of my good friend's Elise's wedding that weekend. That night, we gave them their gifts that we brought back from Europe....and one extra ;)

Next doctor's appointment is tomorrow morning!! I'm so excited to see if I have progressed anymore!!

38 Weeks

I am "almost" 2 cm and still 80% effaced as of yesterday!

There are only 2 weeks left until my official due date.

Doctor doesn't think I'll make it that long, but also thinks he's still got some cooking to do.

So, basically I'm just confused and I'll just stick to having May 22nd as my goal ;)

How far along? 38 weeks. Size of a spaghetti squash. (19-22 in, 6.5 lbs)

Total weight gain: about 23 lbs
Maternity clothes? Yes yes of course...but mostly the same ol' BYU shirts and stretchy pants!
Stretch marks? Ugh yes let's move on.
Best moment this week: Finding out that I am *almost* 2 cm! 

Miss anything? Feeling like a normal human...none of this pain in my hips or my back.
Movement: Yes! He still reacts to Kaleb's touches on my belly more than mine. Last night he wasn't moving and it kinda freaked me out so I was saying his name over and over and rubbing my belly and then he finally stuck his little tush out and it was the sweetest moment! He hasn't responded to my voice or touches quite like he does with Kaleb so that was a nice moment to have :)
Food cravings: I know it's horrible but I crave Dr. Pepper!
Anything making you queasy or sick: Nothing this week made me feel sick so thank goodness!
Gender: Boy!
Belly Button in or out? Out. 
Wedding rings on or off? On! Monday was the first time it was really difficult to get my rings off because I was so swollen! I had to hold onto an Otter Pop to get my fingers to shrink haha
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy because we are packed, ready to go! And his nursery is done. So so so happy!!
Looking forward to: I have another appointment next Wednesday... so really looking forward to seeing how much progress my body and this baby has made!

37 weeks

GUYS.

I am dilated at a 1 and 80% effaced!

That is NUTS!

I freaked out when the doctor told me and frantically asked if he thinks the baby will come early.

He reassured me that I probably have a couple more weeks - especially considering he's my first.

I guess we will see next week if I have progressed anymore!

I'm just ready to be snuggling this little boy!

(and not being pregnant anymore ;)

How far along? 37 weeks. Size of a honeydew melon. (19-22 in, 6.5 lbs)

Total weight gain: about 22 lbs
Maternity clothes? I like wearing my maternity jeans and sometimes I'll wear those "maternity" v-necks but it's mostly just exercise clothes for me! They are stretchy enough to fit over this large belly and they breathe! It's been warming up around here lately so the breathable material is definitely appreciated ;)
Stretch marks? Ugh yes on my hips blah blah 
Best moment this week: At my doctor's appointment this week, he checked my cervix (ouch...) and told me that I was dilated to a 1 and 80% effaced (WHAT!) sooo that was exciting!

Miss anything? Oh my gosh my hips and pelvis KILL. Round ligament pain is very real, my friends. Best part? When I asked my doctor what to do about it, he said, and I quote: "Absolutely nothing. Actually...you can get this baby out of you". Awesome, thanks Dr. Jones.
Movement: Mmm yes. The kicks used to be like pops, but now they are just stretches, with the occasional hiccups. I know no one likes hiccups, but I especially dislike unborn-baby-hiccups. Having your belly pulse for a good 5 minutes = not fun. I'm sure baby gets frustrated, too!
Food cravings: Otter pops, otter pops, otter pops. I bought two large bags at the store on Monday because I know I will go through them quickly...
Anything making you queasy or sick: Sometimes a particular cereal will make me feel nauseous. It's strange...baby is developing a taste for cereals already!
Gender: Boy!
Belly Button in or out? Out. Weird. Same old.
Wedding rings on or off? On!
Happy or Moody most of the time: TIRED. I really miss sleeping through the night. If I don't get a nap during the day, I am one grouchy mama! Literally.
Looking forward to: My next doc appointment is next Thursday, so I am excited to see if I have dilated anymore!

36 Weeks

You guys.

Nesting is SO REAL. 

It's only 8:30am and I've already made breakfast for me and Kaleb, made smoothies, cleaned my living room, and deep cleaned/organized my fridge. 

Why? Good question. 

I just started cleaning up after making smoothies and I couldn't stop! Also, we rearranged the nursery yesterday and started organizing clothes, blankets, etc. and made a list of things we still need. I am obsessed with getting everything perfect and ready - especially considering my due date is less than 4 weeks away! I am such a planner and I just want everything ready to go.

How far along? 36 weeks. Size of a large cantaloupe. (19-22 in, 6 lbs)

Total weight gain: about 22 lbs
Maternity clothes? Yes...I should buy more but I'm cheap and don't want to buy too many clothes that won't fit after a few months. So, I wear a ton of my old BYU shirts that used to fit big but now fit juuuuust right. Also, lots of exercise clothes...stretchy = the best. 
Stretch marks? Yup, on my hips. I cried the first time I noticed them. Now, I know that this is just a sign that I'm earning my stripes as a mom. And, even though I have days where I'm weaker and it ultimately gets to me, my precious baby will kick and remind me that he is so much more important than some marks on my body. Plus, Kaleb is a champion and makes me feel beautiful. I have such wonderful boys to keep me sane ;)
Best moment this week: Oh my gosh, where do I begin?! I had a doctor's appointment (c'mon, those are the best because I get to hear his cute little heartbeat), my parents came into town for the weekend, I graduated college, I had a baby shower...a weekend of best moments, that I can't pick just one.

Miss anything? Sleeping through the night! Also putting socks/shoes on without feeling like I just ran a marathon. No pain in my hips. You know, the usual. 
Movement: All the time! Doctor said that he is head down with his bum under my ribs on the left and his feet at my ribs on my right side, so he is in a cramped C position...and I definitely feel it! His stretches and kicks feel like he is going to stretch through my skin. Not an exaggeration. 
Food cravings: Anything sweet - fruity sweet. I haven't had very many cravings lately, but fruits ALWAYS sound good.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Eggs still :( I tried them for the first time in months and I still can't do it!
Gender: Boy
Belly Button in or out? Out. It's like a button...it looks so weird.
Wedding rings on or off? On!
Happy or Moody most of the time: HAPPY!! I can't believe we are so close to meeting him! Also, can I still make tired an option? 
Looking forward to: Meeting this baby boy! Only 3-4 more weeks!

32 weeks

8 months.

32 weeks.

Holy cow.

Is this even real life? Are you telling me that I get to meet this little guy in just two months?!

I absolutely cannot believe it.

How far along? 32 weeks. Size of a head of lettuce (19 in, 3.7 lbs)

Total weight gain: about 16 lbs
Maternity clothes? Yeah, sometimes. I mostly have been wearing my exercise pants because I teach skating so often but occasionally I'll whip out my maternity jeans or a stretchy skirt...especially since it's getting so warm!
Stretch marks? A couple showed up on my hips :( But they aren't long...they're like dots. It's weird.
Best moment this week: My doctor's appointment! I now have them every two weeks instead of every 4 and once I hit 36 weeks, I have them every week. I love getting updates about this little babe as well as getting to hear his heartbeat <3

Miss anything? Just being comfortable. His kicks are HUGE now so when he's awake, he is AWAKE and moving around like crazy. It can get uncomfortable.
Movement: Haha see above.
Food cravings: Fruits! All kinds. Oranges are still my number 1. If I eat one, I have to immediately have at least 2-3 more to satisfy my craving.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Nothing in particular...
Have you started to show yet: I feel like I should just delete this question haha
Gender: Boy boy boy
Belly Button in or out? Out. Still weird...
Wedding rings on or off? On!
Happy or Moody most of the time: TIRED. Can that be an option?
Looking forward to: The fact that I only have a month until I graduate!!!

30 weeks + baby shower

Well, I'm officially 7.5 months! Time has flown by, yet stood absolutely still. I can't believe this pregnancy is in the home stretch, yet I feel as if I've been pregnant FOREVER. 

This last weekend, I got to fly home for the weekend! What a crazy busy weekend we had! I flew in Friday afternoon and flew out Sunday morning, with a baby shower on Saturday. It was incredibly fun to see everyone and especially nice to see my family - their first time seeing me pregnant in person! Mom teared up a bit...but are we really surprised? ;) haha love you mom!

How far along? 30 weeks. He's the size of a butternut squash this week! (17 in, 3.1 lbs) 

Total weight gain: about 14.5 lbs
Maternity clothes? Yeah, sometimes. I can still wear some of my "normal" (lol) clothes which is great!
Stretch marks? None on my belly! yaaaaayy
Best moment this week: Going back to the best state in the country and also seeing my family :)

Miss anything? Being able to put my shoes on without it feeling like an ab workout
Movement: Oh yes!! When I got home on Sunday, Kaleb was bonding with baby boy and every time he would put his hand on a specific part of my belly, he would start kicking me there. It was one of the sweetest moments we have had yet this pregnancy. Baby loves his daddy so much already! 
Food cravings: Still oranges and grapes and strawberries...I guess I should just say fruit. Also, the days leading up to going home, I was craving pho HARDCORE. My craving was satisfied Saturday evening after my baby shower. We have a staple pho restaurant that we would ALWAYS go to growing up and they have the best wonton noodle soup. I was in heaven - so was baby. I swear he started doing somersaults in there after I was finished eating.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Certain things at different times. Like this morning I was making breakfast and was chopping up mushrooms and gagged several times. I don't like mushrooms anyways, but the smell has never made me nauseous so that was fun.
Have you started to show yet: Uh yeah 
Gender: Bouncing baby boy!
Belly Button in or out? Definitely out. Still weird to me.
Wedding rings on or off? On!
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy/Moody ;)
Looking forward to: The fact that on Monday (today) and Wednesday, my early morning class is canceled which means I get to have my morning to just relax!

So, the baby shower was adorable. My mother did an AMAZING job with the decorating and the food!

It was so good to see everyone - I'm glad you could all come! This baby is so loved, it blows my mind <3

Best friend did all the games and they were FANTASTIC - thank you for helping so much! 

Thank you mom for putting so much time and effort into this shower - you're the best and I can never adequately express how grateful I am for you! You're going to be the best grandma :) Love you!

So...I'm pregnant. 28 weeks

Oh hi there.

I remember when I used to post updates...and then I'm not sure what happened.

Oh yeah, I got pregnant.

Hello baby bump!

I have been obsessed with reading mommy blogs and birth stories...mostly because I'm anxious for my own delivery and so any information I can get now is great for me!

I've noticed that a lot of mommy blogs post weekly updates on their progress throughout their pregnancy. Even though I'm in the third trimester and pretty much almost done, I thought it would be awesome to look back and see my various stats during this home stretch.

So go ahead and read it. Or don't.

here we go:

How far along? 28 weeks (as of last Friday...I'm 29 weeks now haha oops. I'll post another update...maybe)

Total weight gain: about 13 lbs
Maternity clothes? I actually just bought my first pair of maternity jeans last weekend! I have been okay with just wearing leggings and exercise pants for the last 7 months, but I really started to miss wearing jeans and feeling...not pregnant haha. So I bought some jeans and OMG they are the most comfortable thing EVER. I'm grateful I haven't needed to buy maternity clothes for this long, but man have I been missing out! I also bought some cute v-neck shirts that are technically maternity tops but they don't cinch at the side, they're just wider and longer so they cover the bump. Again - THE BEST.
Stretch marks? Not on my belly! My chest on the other hand... #poorboobs
Best moment this week: Had a doctors appointment and everything is going great! He is measuring normal and his heartbeat is strong :)

Miss anything? Haha not having any pain in my back? That is the WORST, especially when I'm sitting in class for a long period of time.
Movement: ALL THE TIME!!
Food cravings: Grapes!
Anything making you queasy or sick: Eggs and I still aren't friends yet. I haven't been able to eat eggs since the first trimester.
Have you started to show yet: Ummm yes. I no longer get the looks people give of "is she pregnant or just kinda fat?" ;) I am carrying him more outward than round so you can definitely tell!
Gender: Boy!
Belly Button in or out? Definitely out! As someone who has always had an "in-y", this is especially weird for me.
Wedding rings on or off? On!
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy, but lately I've been emotional. I've heard this comes back around during the third trimester. Awesome.
Looking forward to: I'm going to California this weekend for my baby shower! I'm so excited to be going home! It'll be the first time I'll be away from Kaleb since we got married so it'll be a little weird, I think :)

Thankful for teamwork

Guys. I love my life.

And I especially love my husband.

He is so patient with me.

And so loving.

And so thoughtful.

The list goes on.

But, now that Thanksgiving has come and gone, I still have so much to be thankful for...and I can't hold it in any longer! (yeah sorry this is a mushy post)

I am especially thankful as of late for the situation Kaleb and I are in. I mean, we are newlyweds, I'm a full time student and working at the rink, Kaleb works full time and is enrolled in a class this semester, we have the CUTEST little house, we both have cars, we have Alani - the cutest little kitty! Again...the list goes on. We have SO much to be thankful for! 

But as weird as it sounds, I am most thankful for the hard times we have...with school, car problems, financially, THE SNOW. Ugh the snow...

But, these are the times when Kaleb and I thrive as a team. We work so well together to overcome the various obstacles we face. I have no doubts that we can take on the world together...and win.

He is my rock.

He is the love of my life.

He is my eternal companion.

And I am eternally thankful for him :)

finally, MY ENGAGEMENT STORY!

Remember when I used to blog like . . . all the time?

Me too.

Life got a little crazy.

like getting married.

But there's so much that happened before that.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We got engaged on May 11th

i look crazed. but it's okay. i'm engaged.

and it was MAGICAL. and i was completely surprised. kaleb did really well because i HATE surprises and he HATES keeping surprises from me.

We had been talking about going to the Tulip Festival for months and the week before we went he nonchalantly asked if I wanted to go because "we haven't been on a 'nice' date in a while". 

sure. okay. i won't say no to a "nice" date.

and the week before, i went and got my nails done on a lady date with my old roommate Elise. sly dog.

~i'm going to interrupt for a funny story that will make sense later~

Kaleb and I had been recently reminiscing about the day he finally held my hand. i told him how nervous i was because i thought my hand would be sweaty. ew. (don't worry, it wasn't) and he is proud to say that his hands don't get sweaty. i was way jealous because my hands get sweaty ALL the time. its gross.

~back to engagement story~

So, we go to Thanksgiving Point gardens and I'm stoked out of my mind because I've heard nothing but GREAT things about this tulip festival. We step outside and I already know this is true. It is just GORGEOUS. The colors, the scenery. It's all so perfect. 

We start walking around and look at a map and I point out the various gardens I would like to go check out. He agrees with all my choices and tells me that the "Secret Garden" looks way cool and should head that way. Okay. Cool. Sounds good.

I'm so distracted by all the colors and pretty flowers that I don't notice Kaleb freaking out. (At least that's what he told me.) I kept stopping, wanting to take pictures and go to these other gardens and he is being so amazingly patient with me and even humoring me and jumping into the pictures I wanted to take.

But i didn't mind too much because Kaleb was on his phone almost THE ENTIRE TIME. I was getting annoyed but right when I would say something, he would put his phone away. Sneaky man.

such a good sport.

We finally made it to the secret garden and I noticed that Kaleb's hand was SO sweaty. (remember my story earlier???) I commented on it and he just told me it was hot...which it was. it was REALLY warm that day.

This garden is beautiful! there's an archway for you to enter before you get to the actual garden where there's a fountain and beautiful trees and flowers. There were people in the garden, especially around the fountain. There was a little boy playing with the water so a lot of the bench surrounding the fountain was wet. We sat down at the fountain and took some pictures. We were sitting right in the sun and I was getting too hot, so I suggested that we get up and move to a different corner of the fountain, in the shade. and so we did.

I should have noticed how the garden was filled with people and then suddenly they were gone. but i didn't.

Kaleb rested his head on my shoulder and whispered "I really love you" in a low, shaky voice to which I replied "I love you too!" in a happy, chipper voice. Should have caught on to that. oops.

He then lifted his head up and said "Deanna, I love you. But, sometimes words fail to express how I feel."

cue Kaleb suddenly on one knee in front of me.

"but, Deanna, right now the only words I can say are will you marry me?"

While he was proposing to me, I asked him "ARE YOU PROPOSING TO ME?!?!"  not only once. but twice. i slapped my hand over my mouth in shock and whispered "Yes!"

at that point, Nik, Josh, Joey, and Schuyler all popped out of random places within the garden. They got it all on video! And the people that were in the garden was ushered out by the boys and came back in to applaud and congratulate us. I am a crying wreck and hide my face in Kaleb's chest, trying to figure out if this was all really happening. 

and it was.

PS, Kaleb was on the phone with the boys telling them our location. don't worry, he's not a jerk and on his phone when he's with me ;)

and here's the video of our engagement!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTggoaG4XYM

thanks again, boys!

and i'm now married to the man of my dreams!

my life is magical.

*post about the wedding coming soon!* 

twelvetwelvetwelve

12-12-12.

This is happening right now.

Unfortunately, I'm the loser that didn't screenshot my phone at 12:12pm on 12-12-12.

I'm really broken up about it.

(not really)

But, this is really cool.

And won't happen again until 1-1-2101

Which I will obviously be alive long enough to see.

So, I don't know why people are making such a big deal about today.

Psh.

:)

Happy 12-12-12!!

So much to be thankful for

Thanksgiving has come and gone.

But, I have so much to be thankful for.

Like Pacific Coast Sectionals happening at my rink in Provo. And seeing all my dearest friends compete again. I have missed SWP skating SO much. I love you guys and I'm thankful for the impact you all have had in my life. I'm thankful for skating and the discipline it's taught me. Skating is such a magical sport. I mean, who else can say that they can defy gravity? Not many. I love it. I love it. I love it.

Or the time China flew up to Utah.

Those three days you were here meant more than you know. I love my best friend and I love her visits! Thanks for seeing Breaking Dawn at midnight (ahem, 10pm) with me when no one else would ;) Thanks for making the drive back to California that much more enjoyable. I'm thankful for the friendship you've given me. No one understands me quite like you do and no one laughs at the same stupid things we do ;) I'm thankful for your loving patience when I call you in a panic about dumb things. You've always been there for me and I appreciate that more than you will ever know. You've been such a positive influence in my life and I'm so blessed to have the privilege of calling you my best friend. I love you, dneirf doog <3

I'm thankful for my family. Immediate and extended. And for being able to spend an entire week with them in the best state in the country. They are the best. I'm thankful for all the support they have given me the past 20 years. I'm thankful to have had them when I went through hard times this summer. I'm thankful for their prayers and unconditional love - I definitely feel it, even being 650 miles away :) I have missed my family! I love you guys so much!

I'm thankful for Kaleb, who flew down to California to spend Thanksgiving with me and my family.

 And for making the 9 hour car ride back to Provo with me. That drive is not easy, but he made it bearable and enjoyable. I'm thankful for his continuous patience - we all know I need someone who can be patient with me. ;) I'm thankful for his unconditional love and support in all that I do. I'm thankful for the kindness of his heart and for not putting up with my crap...in a loving way ;) I don't know how I landed such a magnificent guy, but I'm counting my blessings everyday I'm with him. Thank you for loving me! I love you!

I'm also grateful for these girls.

They make my day. Always. I'm grateful I chose to live in freakin' expensive Helaman Halls freshman year. I feel so blessed to call these girls my friends. They've got my back no matter the situation. They bring so much joy to my life. I know I am a better person because I know them and they bring out the absolute best in me. Amy, Caroline, Caitlin, Ali, Elise, Christelle, Heather, Erynn - you girls are THE BEST and I don't think you will ever understand how much you mean to me. Thank you for your friendship and unconditional love! I LOVE YOU SLUS SO MUCH.

Tis the season.
Happy Holidays and Happy Finals!

Wake me up when...October ends?

October is over.

It's November.

Whaaaaaa?

SO MUCH HAS HAPPENED. 

It's funny because I started blog posts for these events that have already happened . . .

But I never finished them.

Ladies and gentlemen, here is a post of all my unfinished blog posts.

Oct. 19 - Halloween parties galore! Or, just two. Went to Scott's place to bake and decorate Halloween cupcakes and then to my coworker Keri's place for a bit. But, the night is not over yet! Kaleb then took me to Nickel City after my crazy Halloween filled night for our first date.

Oct. 20 - BYU v. Notre Dame away game. We bought our Lil Caesars and settled into our living room for this game. Such a good game! Our boys fought a good fight. Went and threw the ol' pig skin around with Caitlin, Elise, Summer, and Kaleb and then Kaleb took me to see "Perks of Being a Wallflower" with some Cocoa Bean at Rock Canyon after the movie. Delish.

Oct. 26 - Corn maze! For the past 2 years, we have gone to a corn maze around Halloween time and this year was going to be no different. We usually go to Corn Belly's but our poor college student wallets couldnt handle it this year. So, Ali, Amy, Summer, Kaleb, Colton, Danny, and I went to a corn maze in Provo. Not nearly as fun but at least we made it to one to keep the tradition alive :)

also Kaleb and I became "official" that night :)

Oct. 27 - The night of the Halloween Show we had been working so hard on! My kids did FANTASTIC. I had a Purple People Eater, Jack Skellington, pirates, and a "wicked" pair of witches. I have never felt so proud! To end the show, my coworkers and I choreographed our own routine to perform. Such a success!! The ward Halloween party was that night so after the show, we quickly made the drive up to Alpine. Success.

Oct. 31 - Halloween this year consisted of watching Newsies, tie dying our Disneyland shirts, and watching Donnie Darko. Not your typical Halloween, but it was nice to stay in and relax this time!

Nov. 1 - finally made it to November! Deadtooth performed at Awful Waffle so Kaleb, Summer, and I went and supported our boys. AND THEN IT WAS OFF TO CALIFORNIA FOR ELISE, CAITLIN, KALEB AND I. We left around 11:30pm and got in around 7:30am -ish.

Nov. 2 - Beach beach beach! Oh, how I have missed the beautiful ocean! And, west coast sushi. Yesss. Bryce's senior night for football was later that evening and they won, 43-41!! I could have cried. So proud of all he has accomplished this season and I know this injury will not keep him down for long.

Nov. 3 - DISNEYLAND!!!! Happiest place on earth just got a little happier because WE HAVE ARRIVED. Pure Disney magic from 9:30am-12am? Yes please.

Nov. 4 - Dad's birthday! Went to sacrament meeting and then had to take off back to Provo. That drive back is always TERRIBLE. My weekend at home was GLORIOUS but way too fast. Good thing I'll be home again 7 days!!

Pacific Coast Sectionals are happening this weekend and I could not be more excited to watch some fantastic skating and see all my favorite skaters from back home. 

Oh, and China flies into Utah in 4 days.

I'm a little excited.

Happy November!

Magical weekends are the best kind of weekends

Why you may ask?
Oh, well let me just tell you.

On Thursday, Elise, Amy, Ali, and I all went to go see Pitch Perfect - a movie we've been dying to see for FOREVER. (not really). It exceeded ALL expectations. I have not laughed so hard in a movie in a loooong time. So so so good.

Friday: Elise and I drove up to SLC to pick up JPotts! (Jacob Potter for the unfortunate few that do not know who he is) We went to The Gateway mall for breakfast at Starbucks and then headed back to Provo. One of my favorite Corner boys was making cider at his home in Alpine so some of the roommates and I went up with another one of our favorite members of Corner house to partake of this liquid gold. Absolutely delicious with our grilled hot dogs and halloween cakes ;) We watched this awful movie called Mars Attack that was funny and unsettling at the same time . . . at least Cait and I laughed throughout the movie at parts that weren't supposed to be funny. (Frahnk?)

Saturday was . . . interesting. The coworkers and I got to the rink early to work on our coaches' routine for the upcoming Halloween show which is going to be AMAZING . . . if I do say so myself. (so, make sure you all come . . . Oct. 27th at 7pm)

BYU V OREGON ST! I was really excited for this game because it was a BLACKOUT! It was so SICK. The stadium looked amazing and the atmosphere was fantastic. Our boys were doing SO WELL up until the last few minutes of the game. :( I was sad, but super proud of our boys. They played their hearts out.

In honor of Christelle and Caroline's birthdays, we went to the Spaghetti Factory for dinner and after, Caitlin, Kaleb, and I went to go see Pitch Perfect . . . again. Not even mad about it.

Sunday was CRAZY busy. Right after church, Elise and I drove to SLC again to pick up JPotts and bring him back to Provo. When we got home, some of our friends came over to watch the Les Mis 25th anniversary concert . . . something that Cox 22 is shamelessly obsessed with. We finally finished off the night with Wall-e at Corner house; a great ending to a fantastic, crazy busy weekend.

Here's to more weekends like this one.

Wake me up when September ends

It's October?!

Where did the time go?

Guess it's time for another update in Indy's life . . .
On September 22, some of the lovely ladies of Cox 22 went on a group date. We carved watermelons and played fugitive. You better believe me and Victor's watermelon looked the best.

 The amazing Brigham City Temple Dedication was Sept. 23rd and we had the privilege of watching the broadcast from the Marriott Center. Amazing.
On September 25th, I found out that my dad and brother were officially coming to Utah for the weekend! You can say I was a little excited . . . I also met up with a friend from my ward last year at Slab Pizza. If you have never gone, go RIGHT now. I have am a Slab believer. Holy cow. SO good. Oh yeah, and it was good to see Andrew, too. Hahaha ;)
SEPTEMBER 27TH - AKA THE DAY MY BOYS FLEW IN. Best. Day. Ever. Took them to Happy Sumo after I picked them up . . . they weren't impressed. They are too spoiled with the FRESH fish living in Southern California . . . haha.
Friday the 28th, we went to the Skyroom with the Dean of students. Delicious. I had to work later that afternoon/evening so I dropped the boys off at the tailgate. They had a terrific time at their first BYU football game! Go Cougs! 47-0 against Hawaii! :) We finished the night off with some Brick Oven with Preston and then headed back to Orem. Successful day, indeed.
Saturday, I had work in the morning but then took the boys to J-Dawg's - their first! They LOVED IT. Another success. But, how can you NOT love it?! Answer - you can't.
After lunch, we headed to the bookstore so they could buy some more BYU apparel and then headed over to Miller Park to watch the BYU alumni baseball game. Dad even got to meet one of my best friends, Des! Didn't get to see him pitch, but it was SO nice to see the kid. Then, we finally made our way to Hokulia . . . dad had been waiting two days for this. And it was so worth it. Now, you have to remember that he grew up in Hawaii with Matsumotos - the best shaved ice. And, he said Hokulia was even BETTER. Like, what?
Yup. He absolutely loved it. He even said they were going back for more after dinner, haha. Dinner rolled around and we ate at Costa Vida where we quickly ate so he could go back to Hokulia, hahaha. They headed back to Orem to rest and watch some football and I stayed in Provo to watch some of my favorite boys perform with their band Deadtooth at a party. SURPRISE - we weren't actually invited to this BIRTHDAY party. Talk about awkward. But, unfortunately, after only 3 songs, they got shut down by the police due to a noise complaint. Watch a band get shut down by the cops? Checked off the bucket list.
Sunday, the sad day. The day I had to take them to the airport. We stopped at Cabelas on our way to SLC to walk around - one of dad's favorite things to do - and then again at Temple Square.
That goodbye was so difficult. This weekend was so amazing and wonderful and way too quick. I cried all the way back to Provo.
I am so thankful for the WONDERFUL men in my family. I got to bond with my little brother again, something I missed terribly and I was able to finally hug my dad. I missed my mama and my Brandon this weekend, but I know they'll make a trip out here, soon :)
Now, enjoy some pictures from my magical weekend.
Happy October!

Skyroom :)

 Football!

 Alumni baseball game

We love Hokulia :)

My Baki

My daddy :)