Zachary Alexander

Look who is One!

2009-11-27T22:30:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-26T22:29:00.000-05:00

Great Great Grandpa Obucina's Rocker

2009-11-25T22:19:00.004-05:00

This is a rocking chair that came from my Grandma and Grandpa Cook's house. My MaBa and Uncle used to ride it. Here my Uncle Jeffery shows me to ride.

Gotta love this boy.

2009-11-05T21:59:00.001-05:00

The Frog Prince

2009-10-31T21:56:00.000-04:00

Jessica's Wedding

2009-10-13T22:05:00.000-04:00

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Zach's First Trip to Park

2009-10-04T21:47:00.000-04:00

9 Months

2009-08-30T11:55:00.004-04:00

Zach saw his doctor for his 9 month visit this week. Here are the stats:

Weight 23 lbs 10 ox (90th %-ile)
Length 29 1/4 inches (90th %-ile)
Head circumference 18 3/4 inches (95th %-ile)

The pediatrician always begins the visit by asking us to brag about what Zach is doing. We told him that he loves to feed himself. Now he is able to wrap his little hands around the bottle, and even hold it in one hand. When he sees mom or dad he squeals, waves both hands in the air and bobs up and down. He did this last week when mom arrived to pick him up at day care, and she fell in love all over again! He has 6 teeth, but really does not like to eat baby food. He has a steel trap mouth with expert dodging skills. Mom asked a friend how she got her son to eat- she said, "Well we just sent the food to day care and let them figure it out!" So how is that going? The food containers return home empty. In the mean time we are experimenting with normal table food. He has had cantaloupe, watermelon, crackers and green beans. On the mobilization front Zach gets very frustrated, well aware that he want to move. He scoots. On his bottom when sitting up. Around 360 degrees. Toward an object. He can get on all fours, but as soon as he tries to lunge forward he is flat on his tummy. This is not at all bad, in fact this strategy was used to reach mom's diet pepsi this week. Mom found Zach lying in a puddle of soda, splashing his hands and giggling. We refer to it as our first crawling incident. Zach loves to stand, and is working hard to pull himself up. The doctor suggested we not pull him up anymore, allowing him to get stronger. Now Zach is very offended by this. He looks up at us, sticks out his bottom lip as to say, "Now why are you doing this to me!" Other times when he is very pleased with us he will offer a proud "High Five!" Each time he smacks our hand we shout BAM! Which always leads to a stream of giggles. Now we are working on clapping. Now we have not forgotten about our big kid, Smokey. His favorite pastime is attacking the baby bottles. It is a constant task to remember to keep them out of his reach. In the meantime Dr. Brown's is making a small fortune (at $6 per bottle!) Zach knows Smokey by the jingling of his collar. He is always looking for him after hearing the sound. Zack loves to pet Smokey, and Smokey loves to give kisses. Especially when there is milk involved!

To summarize Zachary at 9 months, he is a passive soul who delights in the smallest things. He is keenly aware of his surroundings and appears surprisingly thoughtful for his age. Zach has a sense of humor, using his words and expressions to draw in then crack up any who will catch his spell. He loves to be with mom and dad but instead of being held prefers sitting or standing close in a position to absorb the world with their protection. He loves to sleep, loves to swim, loves to dance. He is absolutely impossible to resist!

Weekend Mission

2009-08-17T21:09:00.007-04:00

It was a fine weekend. No hospital responsibilities. Mommy was on a mission with two main objectives:

1. Capture a photo of the adorable five teeth sprouting in Zach's mouth (great job Grammie you got the perfect one!)

CLOSE UP!

2. Find this kid some shoes. He wants to step by himself all of the time, and when he does he emits this deep belly laugh. He looks up with big eyes, beautiful eyelashes, and the toothy grin, utterly satisfied with himself. It won't be long before he is walking! In case you fear you missed something (like crawling) you didn't...... he's working on that too.

Big Boy Seat

2009-08-09T22:10:00.002-04:00

So we are transitioning out of the baby carrier. Little Zach is growing by leaps and bounds. I am not sure how much he weighs, but it is probably close to the 30 lb limit on his baby seat. We have the next stage car seat, but it seems enormous. Zach likes it okay. So this one is good up until 100 lbs. Someone please help me here. Won't he be like 10 years old when he weighs 100 pounds?!??

I did it!

2009-07-30T19:42:00.003-04:00

Celebrating today meeting my HUGE goal. Amazing I lost 74 pounds. Five dress sizes. Twenty inches. So maybe the 6 inches off the bust do not really count- but in my book they do! Body fat percentage minus 5%!

Eating 1300 calories a day, exercising 2-3 times per week. Just enough caffeine, just enough alcohol.

So although I am not as strong as before, I am well on my way.

Before and after photos have been requested..... we'll see.

Best Friend

2009-07-07T20:54:00.000-04:00

Is it possible to have a relationship with someone you have never met? If so then this would be the case. From the time they were the size of a poppy seed our hopes and dreams for Zach and Owen were woven together. As they grow they bring so much happiness to our lives. A special kind of joy to see two little beings, sprouting on their own trajectory, fulfill our dream: to be parents.

Owen gives Zach kisses

Introducing little O

Our guys

You make the call

2009-07-06T08:30:00.000-04:00

So the doctor says Zach has a funny shaped head. Something about laying on his back too much. I suppose we are bad parents for letting that happen. But then nature v. nuture makes a statement. Could it be that he simply has the same noggin' as his Grandpa? Here is the evidence- you make the call.

Drool Meister

2009-07-05T20:05:00.000-04:00

We had a special discovery over the weekend, a tooth! It is a lower one in the center slightly to the left. He hasn't been fussy, but as expected tries to chew on everything. He absolutely loves the frozen teething ring. What fun.

Itai turns FIVE

2009-07-04T20:11:00.003-04:00

It is becoming a tradition. Celebrating the 4th of July in St. Louis. Itai (Yuda's American boy) was born on 7/4/2004. Last year we were all there (Zach en utero) for Itai's Golden Birthday. At the time Noa was almost one, what a difference this year as she clearly has her own personality and can really express herself. Reminiscent of birthday parties in Detroit when I was a child the kids were all together, like cousins. Fitting as Itai and Noa call me Tia- a nickname that I love.

Here are the kids- so adorable.

How about a Mom who can shrink and bake? This special baseball cake was homemade.

This mommy knows how to cuddle, can't supress the giggles.

I miss St. Louis. This is why.

A robot arm! Most perfect present EVER!

Noa (23 mos) and Zach (7 mos)

LVAD Video

2009-06-28T22:38:00.002-04:00

Work has been pretty exciting..... here is a video of what we have been up to.

Olivia is TWO!

2009-06-22T21:19:00.002-04:00

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T21:07:00.003-04:00

Dad wears shirt, "Big Guy." Baby wears shirt, "Little Guy."

Grandfather gives lots of kisses.

Grammie loves Zach.

Smiles for Mommy.

Just can't get enough of this little one.

What's For Dinner

2009-06-20T18:22:00.000-04:00

Future Nascar Racer

2009-06-14T20:18:00.002-04:00

Zach meets his Great-Grandma

2009-06-13T16:22:00.003-04:00

My Grandma and Great-Grandma drove from Missouri to visit me!

"Look at that Grandma, she's gonna swim!" exclaimed a little girl at the pool.

Here we are four generations.

Six Pack at the pool

2009-06-10T19:32:00.003-04:00

Stylin' with baby sunglasses: 2 points

Milk on the face: 2 points

Too cool for school: 2 points

Six pack from momma in the sun: SCORE!

Look what I can do Daddy!

2009-06-09T19:10:00.003-04:00

Sit UP!

After the baby goes to sleep

2009-06-02T21:34:00.004-04:00

I climb onto my commuter bicycle- a hybrid with wide tires and a smooth ride. Turn out of the driveway and down the rocky road. Navigating the pot holes my mind wanders back to childhood when long car rides to Grandma and Grandpa's house would end with waking up as the car bounced along the dirt road to their house. Turn onto Daniel Island Drive and watched the tide roll into the creek. Bike across two bridges surrounded my marsh and breathing the scent of pluff mud. Approach the pool and hear the sound of young boys splashing, a mother with soft instructions of caution from the deck. I flip my shoes, pants and shirt off. Pull my cap and goggles out of my bag, hop in feeling the warm water. The evening air is cool on my wet arms and face. The first lap is always the best. Feeling the strength of my arms, the smooth water flowing down my body, my legs strong propelling me forward. The standard black stripe down the center, an occasional surprise of a waterlogged insect or lost hair barrette lurking beneath. Losing myself in the rhythm of stroke, stroke, breathe, stroke, stroke, breath, turn, repeat. My mind visits all images from the day. Recapping the frustrations, rehearsing my comeback, pushing these thoughts away, one after another. Flipping to backstroke I am reminded that I am in a pool, outside. The flags hanging above are tattered and torn, likely from the elements as the pool is just yards from the harbor. I see the moon, a half moon rising. Turning at the wall from underwater I watch the distorted image of the palmetto tree, that comes into focus as I float to the surface. Out of the pool back on my bike there is enough sunlight to take the long way home. Around the gravel path past the boat docks, down the nature trail. A large crane is startled as I approach. As he takes off his wings spread wide, tiny legs like sticks leave ripples in the pond. By the time I arrive home my mind is filled with gratitude. So blessed to be in such a beautiful place. Fortunate to have the strength to bike and swim. Celebrating this time to myself. It is too good- I couldn't even make it up better than this.

Pierce Park Pool

Favorite Hour

2009-06-02T21:18:00.003-04:00

As a working Mom, during the week there are just a few cherished hours to spend with Zach. Nightly my mind slips away from the high stakes busy world of the hospital and into a delightful land of giggles and wet kisses. Play time too quickly becomes bedtime. Still such a delight, can you see what I mean?

Play time

2009-05-30T12:38:00.003-04:00

This one looks Yummie!

I want you touch you.

Yay!

Boo.

And swing!

Look what I found

2009-05-27T20:22:00.003-04:00

Mommy I want to tell you about the most interesting thing......

My FEET!

Six Months!

2009-05-25T17:50:00.004-04:00

Zachary had his 6 month well baby check-up.

Here are the stats:
Weight 19 lbs 7 oz
Height 27 3/4 inches

Now it's time to try some food!

Yummie. Zucchini.

And Carrots.

Oh so fun!

Mother's Day at the Beach

2009-05-10T16:12:00.004-04:00

Washington DC 2009

2009-04-19T21:01:00.012-04:00

It is Lobby Day for the American Heart Association. Mom and Zach made the big trip. Grandma came to town to take care of baby. Uncle Jeff and Uncle Tony were there, as well as Tony's family John, Jill, Matthew and Nicholas!

Uncle Tony and Nicholas playing ball

Jill and Matthew coloring

Grandma and Zach

Bouncy chair- it's a wonder Mom was abale to assemble it!

Uncle Tony and Uncle Jeff

The boys at the WWII Memorial

Uncle Jeff's APA office

Zach's first subway ride!

Fun with Mom

Yep. Traveling to DC is all right.

Easter 2009

2009-04-12T20:48:00.012-04:00

4 months

2009-03-25T18:41:00.004-04:00

Zachary had his 4 month check up this week. What a good boy- he cried for about 3 seconds after his shots.

Height: 26 inches
Weight 16 pounds

Ouchie.

Bath time goodies!

2009-03-22T21:14:00.001-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2009-03-13T18:53:00.003-04:00

Love BUMBO!

2009-03-11T21:36:00.005-04:00

Wow we love sitting in our Bumbo! Sometimes Zach sits in the chair in the middle of the table as mom and dad have dinner.

Update

2009-03-09T22:01:00.003-04:00

What a joy! Zach is growing like a sprout. He recently learned how to use his hands. So many fun things: finger sucking, toy holding, mommy caressing and very important some protection from Smokey kisses.

We are doing well, have a routine. Zack likes to sleep from 9PM to 4AM and we have no complaints! He is doing well in day care (minus 2 colds already- but better without antibiotics).

I am very busy with work, but am loving it. Brian is also busy with work, and unfortunately has had to travel a lot.

Yay Obama!

2009-01-20T14:23:00.001-05:00

Practice what you preach.

2009-01-06T20:43:00.003-05:00

I must admit. My diet was not the healthiest during this pregnancy. In my defense there was a lot going on- and eating my most primal coping mechanism. Now it is time to pay the piper. Baby weight? No not exactly- it is Ben & Jerry's, cafeteria pizza and office party cake weight.

Even before Zach was born I checked out the local Weight Watchers and picked out my meeting time.

I feel a little like a spy. For years I have been counseling patients on smoking cessation and weight loss. Now I sit in the back of the classroom and hear others share their stories. One woman finally joined after her cardiologist insisted. Within 6 months and 20 pounds she no longer needed her blood pressure or diabetes medicines. A man has lost 60 pounds and continues to lose 2-3 pounds per week. Everyone worships him- I even found myself asking, "So Joe how do you figure out what to eat when you eat at a restaurant?" No I haven't let anyone know that I am a doctor, or a cardiologist. I am enjoying the anonymity for now.

So for now it is all about the points. Keeping with the program, maintaining patience with slow steady progress.

R.I.P

2009-01-04T17:21:00.006-05:00

I announce with the smallest sorrow and swelling pride that my breast pump died.

From the squish squish squish to a squish clink squish clink and finally clink clink thud.

It was a gift from my dear friend Sarah, she used with her little ones.

The headline could read: Working moms dedicated to delivering best nutrients and antibodies to infants prove to be too much for standard breast pump.

Never fear La Leche League members. The squish squish has not been silenced. I simply called the hospital and picked up a hospital grade pump. It is a Cadillac. I am pleased.

Funny the Ameda's untimely demise offered a sort of victory:
torture device 0, determined mom 1 (a big ONE)

Zach's friends, Sophie and Olivia

2009-01-03T19:17:00.008-05:00

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T12:37:00.011-05:00

We started the day at Sullivan's....

We wrapped up 2008 at our house, with all eyes on Zach as you might expect.

Getting a little sleepy.

All smiles for Uncle Jeff.

Playing with Grandpa.

Mommy ROCKS guitar hero.

In jammies and ready for bed!

Fish again.

2008-12-26T16:16:00.004-05:00

I was a YMCA kid. Memories of my childhood include Saturday mornings at the Y. Entering the lobby greeted by the smell of chlorine, squeak of basketballs and shouts of children. In the winter I swam on the swim team. This meant that after school and before dinner 3 nights a week I was in the water. Later playing outside in the snow, hoping my wet hair would freeze before I had to go home. Later being in trouble for not drying said hair, "What is wrong with you child you will die from pneumonia!"

My dear friend Denise re-introduced me to the YMCA when inviting me to exercise with her on a guest pass. The St. Louis South City YMCA later became the place where I found and learned balance for my life. I am certain that I would not have been able to complete my cardiology fellowship without that pool. With each stroke I was able to beat out frustration and under water the silence helped me to hear my voice of determination.

I guess it is because of the emotion and reflection experienced between the flip turns that my memories of certain swims are so vivid. After my wrist surgery- cleared to remove the hard brace and find the strength of my wrist. After hip surgery- negotiating the deck on crutches then making my way down the stairs to weightlessness. Walking then running in the water.

My decision to join faculty at MUSC; this interesting plan to take my first job, move across country and have a baby in six months- was not made without consideration of the proximity of my new office to the Wellness Center pool. All of the way into my third trimester I waddled into that water. Interesting observations of normal physiologic changes of pregnancy. Hmmmm..... a bit more buoyant around the middle, definitely decreased respiratory capacity, oh my goodness whose feet are those?!!?

So today I was again, back in the water. Returning the the Wellness center, re-entering the world of fit hard bodied happy people. Note to self bring different suit, one left in locker is a bit too stretchy and, well shabby. Swimming without Zach was strange. The whole time I was thinking of him, about how this swim required planning and felt like stealing time. It was good though, I felt like each stroke really counted. An opportunity to take inventory, clear the cob webs from the mind and get moving again.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T14:50:00.011-05:00

Zach meets his family

2008-12-21T20:07:00.008-05:00

Uncle arrives in time to deliver "boost".

Grandma and Grandpa are ready to play!

Grammie has lots of songs to teach you.

Grandfather tells a story.

Auntie will make sure you don't become a UVA fan.

He is a party Animal

2008-12-13T11:56:00.014-05:00

Okay, well maybe not a party animal..... considering that he slept the entire time. We were invited to a Oyster Roast, hosted by one of my partners at his home. It was a amazing party with a live band, great food and drinks- it was an Ikon Holiday 2008. It was fun to see everyone from work- it seems like I have been gone for months. Little 3 week old Zach was a hit- which comes as no surprise.

"Just look at him!" - Melanie

The Bride and Groom to be..... Jim and Amanda

Jack and Walt digging into steamin' Oysters
Benny and Sharon
It was a beautiful night, chilly but clear. Here we are conspiring to send John on sabbatical next summer so that we may "house sit" by the pool.
Jen, Benny and Melanie
Pam and Pete seeing Zach now remember how tiny Charlie was as a newborn, and are excited for #2's arrival.
Aunt Kathy meets Zach.... the rare moment that he was awake- although eyes are still closed in this picture.

A love affair

2008-12-12T08:50:00.007-05:00

It all started circa 1982 in a small three bedroom ranch in the suburbs of Detroit. Breakfast would linger on into early afternoon sitting around my Grandma and Grandpa Cook's kitchen table. Sometimes my father would be engaged in heated discussion with Grandpa about the economy, the Lions, or the best way to drive from Westland to Cherry Hill. Other times my cousins would join me for what now is remembered as treasured moments with Grandpa.

Have you ever seen a percolator? The type of coffee maker that the grounds go in the top and the water is boiled in the bottom? It makes the best bubbling sound as it brews. The entire house would smell of coffee, and as little ones my cousins and I would pull up our chairs for a cup. As we waited we would spoon scoops of sugar and a half cup of cream into our mugs. Then Grandma would come with the coffee, serving each of our little bodies as if we were grown ups. Then Grandpa would start the conversation with a probing question such as, "So what type of lunch do they serve you in school?", or "What did you see on the trip to the zoo?" As we sipped our coffee we would share the details of our lives.

Despite the precocious introduction to coffee I did not become a regular drinker until college. (This was pre- Starbucks era). Then I had one of those 4-cup jobbies that held a prominent position in my dorm room. The peak was in med school just as java hit the mainstream. The day could not start without a Venti and at times I needed a Grande in the afternoon to keep the caffeine withdrawal monster at bay. By the time I interviewed for fellowship I had plenty of company in my coffee obsession, as often the hospital tour would include the location of the coffee cart.

It was quite disturbing when I became pregnant and developed a strong aversion to coffee. I can remember one morning walking into the Lab and passing the kitchen. I stopped in my tracks when assaulted by the worst smell. I feared that a mouse had escaped and died... but upon further investigation I realized it was the smell of fresh brewed coffee! This cannot be. Not a big deal since I could not have too much caffeine anyway- but I still missed my moments with the hot cup, rich smell and smooth taste.

When we moved into our house we realized that the coffee maker has not been used in months. In fact after Zach was born we actually discovered we forgot how to use it- preposterous because it really is not that complicated. We have a perfectly evolved set up- the grinder with removable canister, BUNN coffeemaker (fresh pot in 90 seconds) with bulk supply of special filters and fresh beans in the freezer. As you can see I am back in business, and am in my element as I type away with mug of coffee in hand.

Happy Birthday Grandpa!

2008-12-11T09:13:00.003-05:00

I'll be ready when you come to teach me how to throw the football. But if I'm like my daddy I will be really fast- receiver perhaps?

He loves to sleep.....

2008-12-10T19:22:00.002-05:00

My friends have been amazed (and possibly a little jealous) to learn that Zach loves to sleep. Now meal time (q2 hours) is a team effort to undress, massage, tickle and awaken the little guy in order to eat. You hear about the absolute adoration that comes from breast feeding- where as you stare into the newborn's eyes and make a special connection. Let's just say to this point I have bonded with the backs of his eyelids. They are very cute eyelids, however. Here is a photo of all 3 of my boys catching a nap together.

Trip to the Beach

2008-12-09T16:05:00.010-05:00

For those of you out there still wondering why we moved back to South Carolina, allow me to submit in explanation,

December 9th, 75 degrees.....

Not bad for a Tuesday morning. A special treat to hang out with my favorite boys. And handling the camera is as much fun as handling a coronary catheter, well almost.

Bath time Home Edition

2008-12-07T12:50:00.006-05:00

Skypin' with the G's

2008-12-02T13:32:00.004-05:00

Skypin'- v. process of using web cam and internet to visit in real time with others

G's- n. affectionate hip reference to second generation parents, includes grandma, grandpa, grammie, grandfather, etc. (Likewise the P's for those baby boomer parents)

Adventures in Parenting v.1

2008-11-29T09:33:00.007-05:00

You hear about new parents. Obsessing about the care for their baby. Excited by even the smallest developments, "Come here honey and see this.... he pooped!" So many details to attend to, the infant is so fragile and helpless. Heavy with the responsibility- a perfect creature and keeping him that way in your hands alone.

So much for the dramatic- this is after all a natural process. Babies have been born and raised for thousands and thousands of years- to humans and many other species. The majority sans published research studies, promoted parenting strategies and "What to expect" literature.

Somewhere between blind confidence and detail obsession there must be a happy place. Bringing Zach home from the hospital took us through the paces, to each extreme undulating nearly hour by hour.

Newborn jaundice- fairly run of the mill condition. A physiologic process really with a simple remedy. I could see right away the morning after his birth that we had little yellow man on our hands. Trans-cutaneous bilirubin was okay. We received the standard instructions- feed him when he cries, make sure he is soiling his diapers, don't shake him.

Thirty-six hours later run of the mill no more! Zach was super sleepy, not interested in nursing and the jaundice worse. I could see yellow in his eyes and gums. Worried I called the doctor. Is he peeing? Yes. Is he pooping? Yes. So don't worry. Okay.

Twenty-four more hours and we had a inconsolable crier, no pee and no poop! I was basically worried beyond reason. I called the doctor. We packed up the little one and returned to the hospital. Serum bilirubin was high, but not too high. We were instructed to give an extra ounce of milk with each feeding.

Then began the insanity. Every 2 hour feeding. Tired baby requiring 60 min to nurse. Tired mom then pumping for 20 min. Take a quick breather and start again! Exhausted. At that point we were anxiously counting the wet diapers, and waiting for a poop. And let me tell you- when the poop arrived we could not have been more goofy about it. Forget simply announcing it aloud, we wanted to call friends and relatives!

When we saw the doctor Monday AM at that point Zach was looking much better and caught up on hydration. His weight loss was dramatic, from 8lbs 2 oz to 7 lbs 0 oz just 4 days later. So supplements continued on, and the weary worried parents returned home. Glad to be on the right track, concerned and bewildered. Zachary so precious but also fragile.

Zach's First Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T14:29:00.016-05:00

He was three days old, and ready to celebrate. Or at least dreaming of celebrating.

Early morning relaxing with Smokey.

The weather was beautiful- about 70 degrees and sunny. We headed outside for our first walk.

Down to the dock.

Out little jaundiced- yellow man soaking in a little MD ordered sunlight.

Dad is preparing the turkey and sweet potatoes.

Into the oven....

All dressed for dinner, with dad outside on the deck.

Adorable in outfit from Aunt Tiffany

And back asleep in time for dinner.

Homecoming

2008-11-27T12:53:00.021-05:00

After two nights in the hospital it was time to head home. But first time to get dressed......

Then a lesson from Linda on how to carry the baby.

Practice in the car seat, strap one (check), strap two (check), buckle one (check), buckle two (check).

After eating and a nap.........

We're off!!!

In the car.

Daddy is driving with precious cargo.

Out of the car......

Special delivery, home at last.

Huh, grrrr, mmmmmm, ahhhhhh.......

Smokey assumes his position guarding the new little one.

All is well in the Peura house.

LeRoy Blinn

2008-11-25T21:48:00.004-05:00

We received very sad news this afternoon. My grandfather passed away. He had been ill for several months, and died peacefully under Hospice Care with family at his bedside. I am really going to miss him.

LeRoy Blinn served in WWII and was a proud Veteran. He worked as a drafter for Massey Furgeson in Detriot Michigan. He was an active member of the Masons, and he loved his Masonic friends and participating in chapter events. He grew to be a jolly old man, and when he was still active had a regular routine of places he would stop and visit with folks in his hometown. My husband asked me what I will miss- my answer was his smile. The way he laughed and grinned when talking to you- as if he had been waiting the whole day just to learn that news, hear that story or spend time with you.

The first bath

2008-11-25T20:53:00.010-05:00

We are fortunate to have a special nurse, Linda. She is a doula, lactation teacher and nursery nurse. She was at our side during the labor and delivery.

Linda also teaches us special tricks..... for one after Zach was born they did the Apgar scores (9 and 9 by the way) and handed him to me. He stayed on my chest for the next 2 hours. With delayed antibiotic eye ointment he was able to see me, and his dad. He was able to nurse (with a lot of help from Linda) it was so amazing to feed this little creature. He was so close to me it was hard to take him all in at once. The natural instinct was to examine every inch, but as he nursed in my arms it was a gradual study. Eyes, forehead, ears, nose, chin, fingers.

He did not have a bath right away, Linda explained that when the dried amniotic fluid coats the skin the scent will affect my hormones to promote nursing. So the full survey came this morning when we gave him his first bath. With Linda at our side, of course.

Here are pictures of Zach 12 hours old. His first bath.

Linda & Zach

Family Photos

Welcome to the world little one

2008-11-25T17:53:00.006-05:00

Zachary Alexander Peura
November 24, 2008
1021 PM
8 lbs 2 oz
20.2 inches

Happy Zero-th Birthday!

2008-11-23T20:26:00.009-05:00

We have a date with a pitocin drip in the morning. It is customary for expecting parents to be excited and crazed with anticipation as the due date approaches. We are fortunate I suppose, to know that our wait is almost over!

So how to pass the time? We spent the day relaxing, napping, watching Season 6 of 24, taking walks around the block- and tonight celebrating!

The final belly picture..... 39 weeks. Do you think it is a 50 pound baby?

It will be a big day tomorrow- there is a reason they call it labor I suppose.

I feel grateful that the testing on Thursday suggests a healthy baby. Grateful I was able to work until the end. Grateful for the last two weeks of rest.

A new beginning for a little person whose name will be Zachary Alexander- a new life. What an amazing birthday gift!

Ready for the little one.

2008-11-23T18:27:00.013-05:00

The nursery is prepared for his arrival.

Smokey is standing gaurd.

The father to be is charging the video camera batteries!

Sailing along

2008-05-16T17:28:00.000-04:00

Weeks are going by quickly now. Overall I am feeling better. Because of my busy travel schedule looking for a new job- I have to miss my 12 week doctor's visit. I got a little worried, wanting some reassurance that you are growing well. I decided to take matters into my own hands. It is common for doctors to do this, something about our training. Anyway I stopped into the ECHO lab one night last week after work. I used the ultrasound machine that we use to do heart exams. The first few moments were exciting. I saw the uterus immediately. Now keep in mind I have NO baby ultrasound experience. Then I was able to see your heartbeat- very cool. Later I manipulated the probe where I could see you from head to toe! And the little hands and toes were waving! So that was the very first time I laid eyes on you. Amazing to me that you are inside my belly, moving around and growing day by day. Last night as I was falling asleep I was thinking of how cool it is to carry you with me, everywhere.

Peanut

2008-05-05T14:40:00.000-04:00

Both days last weekend your Dad and I stayed in bed a little longer after waking up in the morning. We put our hands on my belly and thought about you. Dreaming about you growing. Dreaming about you being part of our family. Dreaming about holding, feeding and soothing you. Thinking about a name, we excluded several possibilities. No real one yet, although we did decide to call you peanut for the time- being.

My body the epicenter

2008-04-27T22:54:00.000-04:00

Since the big reveal- loving family members all want to know what is going on with the baby. How are you feeling? Are you nauseous? Do you feel tired? Does your belly seem different?

They are all so excited, and the new life will change each of theirs in such a wonderful way. All joy. It is just strange to be at the epicenter of this anticipated event. In case it was not obvious yet- this is much bigger than myself. I feel a bit like a vessel, or an artist given a very important commission.

I continue to contemplate the life within me- and my connection to it, the impact the baby has had on the anticipating grandparents acts as a mirror. Through their eyes and smiles I see beauty and wonder. They know, from the memory of the birth of their children what is to come.

Baby- the awakening

2008-04-25T09:55:00.000-04:00

It really was a process. On the ultrasound day we had such great news! Everything looked perfect, could not have asked for more. That afternoon I felt a bit in a fog. It was strange letting it all sink in, yet being at work where being pregnant is very much a secret.

After work Brian and I went out for dinner- it was my birthday. We went to Cafe Natasha's a Persian Restaurant near our house. It was a beautiful evening, the temperature was in the 70's with a light breeze. Pleasant well until sunset, we sat outside in the sidewalk cafe. When we returned home we got on the telephone to share the good news. Grandma was first. She was very surprised, and apparently happy.

"I am so happy for you, I am so happy for Brian, I am so happy for ME!"

Her response was very cute. Grammie next then Great-Grandma and Grandpa Blinn. Finally Jeff- who was so happy he was speachless. If you know your Uncle Jeff you know that does not happen often.

All of these people anxiously awaiting your arrival. We love you already. Especially your Dad- who now looks at me in a special way. Preparing for a trip out of town, this morning he said, "Now you two travel carefully."

In quiet moments I think back to the heartbeat we saw on the ultrasound. Your heart is beating inside of me. A concept that still blows my mind. Weakened by constant nausea, fatigue and tightened waistline I am still struggling a little. It is time for celebration- pausing in the wonder of the life that is changing my body. Feeling the spiritual alignment of those who even at the first thought of you welcome their role in your life. Grandmother, grandfather, uncle, father.

Responses to Ultrasound photo

2008-04-25T09:51:00.000-04:00

GRANDMA
Ultrasound‏
From: Sue Cook (suecook@live.com)
Sent: Thu 4/24/08 11:25 PM
To: Jennifer Peura (jenpeura@msn.com)

Thanks for sending first baby picture to us. Dad and I really enjoyed looking at our grandchild. Although we were not sure what was what, we were confident that the child is beautiful, brilliant and athletic. Have fun visiting Jeff and Peura's. Tell Kristin I was so glad she called. Take good care of yourself. Love, Mom

Grammie
RE: A 1 cm Peura!‏
From: Kristin Peura (kristin@peura.com)
Sent: Wed 4/23/08 4:54 PM
To: 'Jennifer Peura' (jenpeura@msn.com)

Dear Jen,
WOW!!!! Very impressive. I am so happy for you. Please keep us in the loop on everything.

Love, Mom

Auntie Sarah
Subject: RE: pic
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2008 18:29:17 -0500
From: sarah-hartz@uiowa.edu
To: jenpeura@msn.com

I think he looks like me….

(Your Auntie Sarah had an immediate hunch you would be a boy. I think the chance is still 50/50, but if a boy- she called it first!)

8 weeks and a heart beat

2008-04-22T12:25:00.000-04:00

Today we went to the Drs office. We saw you for the first time by ultrasound. We found your heart beat. Your dad was so moved, he said he felt like he could cry. Gladys and Denise were very excited for us. This visit was all good news, much better than our first ultrasound last time. Funny my heart still aches about my first pregnancy worried we will have bad news again. And motherhood still seems like something for other women. It almost feels like I am on the outside, watching all of this happen from a distance.

A circle

2008-04-20T22:06:00.000-04:00

It is hard to wait for my first pre-natal visit with Gladys. Last time I was pregnant I looked forward to it in happy anticipation. I had secretly hoped to find twins, but when the news was bad it was terribly sad. My dear friend Denise was there too, it is not usual for a patient to have two doctors, two friends at the bedside when hearing such bad news. I remember that day. So sad about the loss, but also a feeling of agony, anticipating the long wait until I would be expecting a baby again. Never in my wildest dreams would have I imagined a broken arm and hip surgery would come before another baby.

Whew!

2008-04-17T17:54:00.000-04:00

Boy am I tired. I have to keep going at work. If I slow down, I am down for the count. And hungry. Constantly hungry. And thirsty. Wicked thirsty. There is a noticeable difference between last week and this one. Recovering from hip surgery I am familiar with this type of fatigue. Just need to rest more, and be patient with myself. Not likely there will be too many exciting evening outings in the weeks to come.

Half an Inch!

2008-04-14T21:33:00.000-04:00

Today begins week 7. Last week I was very excited about the heart growing, but this week even better..... little arms and legs. Arms that you will use wave hello and goodbye, write your name, pet Smokey. Legs that will you will use to play soccer with your dad, jump up and down and stand tall. How exciting.

My Little Secret

2008-04-10T22:15:00.000-04:00

This week has been a big one for my career. Big discussions to determine my future as a physician. Previous plans changed. A lot of uncertainty, which is unusual for someone who has had every year planned out, in four year increments since 1996. It could be a horrible situation. Instead I am quiet. A new role for me, one that will mean more than any patient, experiment or assignment ever could. My baby is growing, and it is my little happiness, my little secret.

Tired

2008-04-08T15:03:00.000-04:00

Today has been my toughest so far. I could not sleep last night, and stayed awake until 3AM. I got up today at 8AM. I have felt nauseous all day, and of course tired. Amy thinks it is my hormones changing that makes it difficult to sleep. That could be. I think it is also the worrying about my job in the lab, the unknown path for my career and the little one growing in my belly. Yesterday and today I was able to go for a walk. Smokey and I went into the park, about 1 mile. He loves to walk, and really likes to see the squirrels. He only wishes he could chase them- but not allowed on the leash. Now in the back yard- the furry creatures are fair game.

Now a heart!

2008-04-07T21:07:00.000-04:00

Six weeks today. Seems pretty fast since the first two weeks are a freebie. Your heart begins to develop this week. I can remember in medical school when we learned about the folding and twisting of the heart. Changing from a long tube into a complex organ with four chambers. The heart is a beautiful organ, my work is dedicated to it. I listen to the heart, look at it by ultrasound and x-ray. The idea of now two hearts in my body, it is pretty cool indeed.

Exciting Week

2008-04-06T17:35:00.000-04:00

It has been an exciting week back at home. Dr. Tse (I call her Gladys because we went to med school together) ordered a blood test to measure my hcg. Wednesday it was 500, Friday it was 1200. This is a very good sign that you are growing normally. I told your Aunt Sarah- and she was so excited that she called me back 3 times to ask more questions. Your Aunt Amy is pregnant with her little baby. When I told her she cried. It will be fun for us to grow babies together.

Happy Birthday Smokey!

2008-04-02T10:36:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was Smokey's birthday. He turned two, 14 in dog years. Your dad brought Smokey when he picked me up at work. I had come from the airplane so needed a ride home. When I stepped out the back door of the building dad let him off the leash and he bolted toward me. Ears flapping in the wind. He saw me, and he missed me. I shouted, Happy Birthday Good Boy! We love this dog so much, he makes our life so happy.

Fourteen days plus some

2008-04-01T14:55:00.000-04:00

Fourteen days turned into 21, into 36. Three pregnancy tests were negative. ALL THREE. I was very sad. Last weekend I traveled to Chicago. Wondering if, on the smallest chance, I thought about stopping at Walgreen's to buy another test. I told myself that I was being silly- so I did not. Last night when walking in the rain, I slipped on the sidewalk. My left leg went out from under me, and down I went on my right knee. It was had to walk, so I took a taxi back to the hotel. In order to clean my skinned knee I went to the drug store to buy bandages, neosporine and some motrin anticipating pain from the accident.

Just because I had not given up hope. Just because I did not want to take medicine and hurt my little baby. I bought another pregnancy test.

Just because I felt sorry for myself I bought a pint of Ben & Jerry's Half Baked ice cream. Eating ice cream for dinner I called your father and told him about my fall. He was really worried and wished I was home.

Later, before bed I took the pregnancy test. As it developed I had to blink my eyes several times, I could not believe there was a plus sign! After three negatives, a plus!

Clutching it close I crawled into bed and called your dad. He chatted about how he and Smokey are getting ready to go to sleep, and how Smokey is attached to a new toy. I could hear the funny squeaks of the hedge hound in the background. Then I told him that the test was positive, that I was pregnant. Really?!!?!! Now I really wish you were home, he said. I was still so surprised I had to keep looking at the result. At one point while we shared tender words over the phone I started to cry. Happy tears.

The next morning I got up early to fly back to St. Louis. I carried the positive pregnancy test in my carry-on bag. As if I was returning with an award- and so that I could keep peeking- to reassure my self that my eyes were not playing tricks on me!

Easter Sunday

2008-03-24T00:40:00.000-04:00

Today we drove to Southern Illinois to visit your Great-Grandma and Great-Grandpa. This year was special because Aunt Judy and cousin Beth Ann now live there too. We had a nice dinner. At Great-Grandma's request the special cheese potatoes your Grandma always makes for holidays were made. Beth Ann doesn't like them. She said you only people who are older than 30 like them. I guess in a few years when she gets older we will see if she changes her mind!

I was glad to see everyone because I missed the special birthday party a few weeks ago. Baby Brennah turned one year old. Her mom Beth Ann had a big party. Your Grandma and Grandpa were there at the party. They love Brennah. Singing and reading to her make them happy. Grandma especially loves to teach her things, and Grandpa loves to play puzzles. I imagine these are things they will do with you some day. This is a picture of Brennah when she visited your mom while I was recovering from hip surgery.

Maybe, maybe not, hopefully so

2008-03-22T19:48:00.001-04:00

Dad has been excited about the prospect of a little baby. Today he encouraged me to take a pregnancy test. It was negative. I was sad, but dad tried to take my mind off of it by changing the subject. He took me out to lunch, to the movie and then to a musical. He is good like that.

This afternoon I studied my spreadsheet. Since I am a scientist it is one of the things I enjoy doing. I have been keeping track of all of the signs my body might make to suggest that you are on the way. By my review I figure there is still a chance you might come this month. One more week until we know for sure. It is a bit unusual (but special) that your mother figures like this. It is because I am a doctor, and my work is the human body.

I feel anxious about finding out if our wait is over, or if we will need to wait longer for you to arrive. I have been working to prepare for your arrival, so much love is waiting for you. When I look in the mirror I see a glow in my face. I figure that must be a good sign. You will recognize the glow some day. It will be around the smile you see as I watch you do all of the amazing things your little soul will love to do.