Engine 5 To The Rescue

Engine 5 was able to take the night off and not have to go into the station. Although he was on call and ready to go at a moments notice, he was able to stay with his family and go trick or treating.

The big night of Halloween started off with the trek to Halloween Grandma's. After all, Grandma P. is a "Halloween Baby". Grandpa made dinner while Jacob showed off his increased walking skills, even in his shoes! After dinner it was time to get Jacob and his cousins dressed and ready for the stroll through Candyland at Aunt Ab and Uncle Jer's. As the face make up was going on Sydney, Jacob was very unsure that he knew who this transforming pirate was and was ready to get away. It didn't lake long for Jacob to warm back up to her though .

The stroll started off slowly for Jacob as he was ready to just chill and didn't seem to be overly excited. He was very intensely watching each and every passerby taken all of this new holiday in. This was much different and more interesting both for Jacob and his parents as he pretty much just slept through last year's stroll. With pumpkin and stroller in hand, Jacob's mom was the driving force in getting Jacob to meet many new people as he saw many different wrappers being put into his pumpkin.
As the day turned deeper into the night, Jacob was chowed down a cereal bar. After the devouring of the bar, we were all unsure whether it was an energy bar or Jacob decided that this Halloween thing is much better than he thought. He began laughing and clapping and genuinely getting very excited about seeing and meeting people. Maybe he just caught onto what was going on... ;)! It did help that Aunt Abby and his dad were playing with him.

Back at the fire house (at least that is what we will call if for this editorial), Jacob was put in charge by grandpa to hand out the candy. He did well until a mob came and he was lost in the shuffle. He was still fired up and walked all over in the darkness.

When the ghouls and goblins ceased to come, we shut off the light and went inside to celebrate the prized goblin's birthday along with the other birthdays that fall just before and after the Hallowed day. Jacob was still fired up and took part in eating some cake and ice cream. Jacob wishes to apologize to his mother publicly for not letting her get too much, if any of her cake. He hopes that next year he will get his own piece of cake so that his mother will be able to have some too.

As Jacob became wiped out from the day, we loaded up and headed home after a wonderful evening in "Candyland"...

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Jacob Can Hear

If Jacob is ignoring us, he is either playing or just plain being stubborn. One thing we do know and have confirmed is that he can hear. Today we visited the hospital to get a few tests done. The first was actually hearing noises out of different speakers and then see if Jacob reacted or not. He reacted to all of them positively. The next was putting things in his ears, one at a time, which blew air to see if the ear drum was rigid or not. There was something behind his ears which was probably a little bit of fluid, but nothing to worry about. The last test was similar to the second, but took longer and made noises to see how the ear parts reacted. There was nothing found that would affect Jacob's hearing and all is well!!! We will be getting a report in the mail in the near future confirming the findings. Jacob did well and tolerated the task at hand.

Happy 13 Month Birthday Jacob!

Dr. Appointment - Follow-up

Today was Jacob's follow-up appointment from his one year. The follow-up visit was for part II of the flu shot and check-up on the status of Jacob's skin as well. There were also a few other things that we wanted to fill the doctor in on since we were there as well.

Jacob gained 5 ounces in the last month and now weighs in at 21 pounds, 11 ounces. Upon review of Jacob's skin, we are still having issues and the doctor has ensured us that we are doing what we should be doing and are better than most. Once again, she reaffirmed that fact that we need to continue running the vaporizer/humidifier at night, keep using regular lotion once and sometimes twice a day, plus using the greasy stuff before Jacob goes to bed. Also, if it looks like it has cleared up, keep using it, otherwise the next day his skin will be bad again. We did ask about seeing a dermatologist. The doctor said that she would recommend a dermatologist, but the only difference between what she/they have been doing and a specialist is that the other dr. would prescribed stronger steroids. We do see improvement when we stay on top of it, so we decided that we would forgo the dermatologist, at least for now.

During some discussion, Jacob did walk for the dr. while he was just in his diaper on the floor, so we filled her in on that as well as his improved pointing skills. She glad to see that he has advanced in this area and did notice it. So, up on the table he went to check out his ears. Good news, no fluid in his ears and they looked great. At this point, we discussed that Jacob isn't saying any words yet. He is saying dada and mama, but not as if he knows how to use them. We discussed how he is picking up on our conversations and commands, etc. The dr. recommended that Jacob get a hearing test to rule any issues there out. She knows that he is very vocal, but just doesn't want to overlook anything. So, we have a number to call to have this checked into.

So, Jacob basically got a good report with a couple of "homework" things to do. We need to keep exaggerating/emphasizing the pronunciation of words to help Jacob learn. One thing that Amy and I wish to know is what kind of a hearing test it is that Jacob would get. We know that he hears us and understands commands and things, but we don't know if they can tell how Jacob here's voices. Meaning, are they clear or just mumbo jumbo which is why he is not formulating words. Guess we either need to wait for the appointment or get on the good 'ol internet to find out...

A New Walker

Baby steps have been happening onesie twosie for a few weeks, but last week Jacob began putting many more together. He would only walk when he wasn't thinking about it or when there was only one person around. This meant that his mother would be the only one to catch him... That little stinker... Brings back memories of Amy saying the baby is moving and grab my hand and put it to her belly only for Jacob to stop.

Jacob is walking more often now and has been putting many more steps together. He is fairly solid when he does move, so it appears he is just being cautious and making on the best steps... heehee! Time for mommy and daddy to strap up those laces and be ready to go running after Jacob here, there and everywhere!!! LOL!

Pointing - A New Found Talent

Jacob has found his finger and how to point within a day or two. We could definitely tell he has been pointing with his fingers and has become much more prevalent lately. It is pretty entertaining as he grunts and points at item, but at the same time a little frustrating because we don’t understand why. He is and has been pretty interested in ceilings and lights on them. We do know of at least a couple of other children that have this infatuation, so it could be normal... Anyway, back to the new finding, Jacob is now using a single finger to point things out and he seems to be pretty happy about it. We started really working with him, showing him how we point. It took a little bit, but all of a sudden you could see his fingers being folded a little more all of the time. He has now perfected it when he remembers how to do it. There are other movements that are becoming more “grown up” as well as time goes on. Just little things like bending in places that bending didn’t happen before, etc.

Jacob Loves His Donuts

With it being a fall Sunday, Amy thought it would be good for all four of us to get out and go to a cider mill today. We have been talking about going to one of the bigger ones that have more to offer in regard to playing, etc. However, we didn't think Jacob would be old enough to enjoy himself to make the expediture worthwhile. So, we ventured off to a cider mill with limited stuff to do, but still way more than last week. Last weekend we went to the Franklin Cider Mill and this weekend we settled for Yates Cider Mill.Upon arrival after once again fighting the stop and go traffic, we parked and walked in. We noticed a huge line, so I decided to head off a different way so that we could stop by the petting zoo. Amy went and got some goat grub and fed the goats while the lamas ventured around. Jacob was kinda okay with petting the goat once or twice, but wasn't sure about seeing the goat only inches from his face chowing down on the food. It didn't take long for the goats to devour the grain filled ice cream cone.

The line still looked long that we were able to see, so we headed over to let Jacob see the ponies. It wasn't long before we decided that we should try letting Jacob ride a pony. We were a little unsure about if he would want to do it or not because he didn't get much of a nap and he certainly was acting somewhat like he still needed it. We got in line and Amy held him while he took his first pony ride. He wasn't overly excited about the ride, but he did get to feeling a little more comfortable with them as time went on. About half way through the ride he found out what the horn on the saddle was.

Now for the big line... Well, actually, we found a shorter "express" line which basically meant that you didn't see the apples get squashed... We have all been there, done that so the faster, well sort of, line was fine with us. Before long, Amy had her cider, donuts and of course a caramel apple for Anyssa and herself.

Jacob had fun walking back and forth along the fence while grunting and pointing at the animals in the fence and the dogs as they went by. He even opted to go after the biggest dog he could find in the whole place. Emma was a very nice St. Bernard that allowed (more or less ignored) Jacob. He was pretty excited about it and the dog's owner was very nice and offered for Jacob to pet him.


When Jacob was done playing with all of the animals, we offered him a donut. It wasn't long before you could find Jacob devouring it. Eating one-handed didn't suffice, so he pulled the donut into two pieces and started eating two-fisted. You could really tell he was enjoying his donut. He might not be into eat a ton of different foods yet, but so far it seems we can count on him eating donuts.

Halloween Party - 2008

It was a cold dark blustery day as we loaded up the truck to venture off in the darkness of the night to grandma's house... Okay, so not really, but I was trying to set a Halloween mood... Did it work? So, the girls were off shopping while Jacob and I hung out for a while and then met up with the crew at grandma's house for a night of festivities.

The first item on the agenda was to get there, hang out and grab some grub while everyone got there. The weather was cool, but not windy or anything. It was actually a pretty nice night with a 3/4 moon shining down.

Everyone fed? Time to dive into a pumpkin of your choice to clean out and carve up. No one was in a real hurry and especially the little ones. Jacob didn't really want anything to do with the carving or the cleaning out the insides. Mom took the liberties of cleaning the pumpkin out and then Anyssa pitched in and did the carving for Jacob. Of course, she practiced on her own first.

Next up was nothing but good 'ol fashioned bobbing for apples. I'll spare you the gory details and that portion of the video, but those that were there know what I am talking about. After getting cold and wet it was time to eat donuts off of a string. This seemed to be close to impossible for Colton, but with a little help from grandpa he was able to handle the task. The donuts were no match for Anyssa as she got hers with lightning speed (the judges are still wondering if she cheated... ;)! ). If the food and donuts weren't enough already, it was time to decorate your favorite Halloween cookie for dessert and/or take home.

The evening was topped off with laughs and giggles from the youngest Halloween goblin. He was happy for it to be just his grandpa, grandma, Aunt Ab, Syd, etc. It was Jacob's time to shine before he decided to wither away in the night. It was a great time for all that attended.

Sunday In The Park

With little coersion, even though the Lion's were actually keeping the football game close, Amy, Jacob and I ventured off to Franklin, MI to enjoy the weather and get some cider and donuts. It was difficult to find a parking spot as the roads were lined with cars and we kept seeing people walking all over. We finally got over the hill and could see a park full of people and long lines at the cider mill. After a little debate, we decided to find a parking spot and venture through all of the people.
Amy was a little disappointed because she was expecting there to be bales of hay for Jacob to climb and a pumpkin patch to wander through and pick out a pumpkin. We waited in line to see the press, but there wasn't much to see. We still think Jacob like seeing it because there were a couple of guys moving the pulp out, etc. and he also liked the smell. So, it was up to Amy to get some cider and donuts. After that we walked around what little there was to see and then headed back to the park to taste our findings.

Jacob just LOVED the donuts as he almost ate a whole donut all by his Big Boy self (finished one by himself for breakfast). Jacob played around in the park pushing his stroller all around and crawling to meet other people...

WARNING: The following video is rate B for boring. However, it is our little boy enjoying eating his first cider and donuts...

Let's Go Tech!!

Who would have thought that wewould have been able to get a sun burn while watching Michigan Tech play football in October? On many occasions, I have seen snow and cold weather at this point of the season. Today was a great day to travel to the University of Findlay and watch the Huskies.

On the way to the game we dropped Jacob off at Grandpa & Grandma's house and were then escorted with door to gate service for the game. Findlay shares their stadium with the local high school and parking is limited once you are able to find the stadium. It is in a residential area with no parking per say.

The quantity of Tech fans rivaled the quantity for the home team and maybe even surpassed them. There was an impressive showing for the away team who was 12 hours from home. An Oiler fan even made a comment to us at half time.

The game was a good and close as the lead went back and forth. Tech had a few big plays and Findlay had one with the help of the refs. It was 3rd and short and the Oilers ran a short run which did not give them a first down, but the refs gave about a yard or two (yeah, literally! it was just crazy the whole day!!). The next play was a reverse pass for a 25 yard touchdown. Tech went ahead ahead 30-28 with about 6 minutes left in the game and missed the extra point. This definitely gave the Oilers a shot at going ahead with a field goal. Possession went back and forth and Findlay was pushing the ball up the field for a field goal. With about a minute left in the game, Tech intercepted for the first turnover of the whole game. At this point, the Huskies only needed to kneel down and the game was over.

Amy and I were happy to take Jacob to his grandparent's house and be able to see a good game regardless of who was playing... (well, that might be pushing it a bit). It was great weather and a great game.
After the game, we made the call to get picked up from the game. It was pretty funny because it brought back memories for Amy when one of her parent's would have to pick her up after an event.

Jacob is definitely feeling better, but still not himself completely. He slept the whole two hours there and then the whole two hours back. We were concerned that he would not want to go back to bed until after midnight, but he is already fast asleep and playing around a little while after we got home. His appetite is also beginning to come back. We'll have to wait and see what tomorrow brings...

Roseola Virus

Jacob has now gone to see a medical professional for the third time this week. What started off being diagnosed as one virus has now either turned into another one or is just a continuance of the first one… (a little unclear) The first and second diagnosis was for more of just a cold virus, but it has now turned into/is the roseloa virus. We noticed that Jacob’s skin was breaking out more than normal and was different yesterday. It was much worse this morning, so Amy called the doctor at 7:30 am and they said to get him in there at 8:15 am. He hasn’t had a fever in a couple of days and we were thinking we were out of the woods, or so we thought.

Upon arrival and a few questions, the doctor immediately new what virus Jacob has. The breaking out/rash is a symptom or the course of the roseola virus. The name stems from the fact that the child’s skin is rosy. Since the fever has subsided, he is in the mildly contagious stage and should be back to normal in one to five days. He is definitely in the later stages of the virus, which is good news for us. Jacob displayed many, if not all of the symptoms, but the timing of everything is off, some longer, some shorter, etc.

1 + 1 = 2, Not 3

I was informed this evening after being home for many, many hours... ;)! that Jacob took one step and then two and then he was at his books. I wasn't here to see them, but I'll bet he didn't know what he was doing or did as if he would have known, he probably would have fell towards the books and not taken any steps.

Still Muddling Along

Jacob is still with his back against the ropes. His virus is still very much with him, but at least the fever has been back since Tuesday evening. He was pretty fussy all day today and still hasn't been eating or drinking very much. His skin has also been an issue more so. After the doctor visit on Monday, he starting breaking out more with what we think is a rash. Jacob's temperature spike Tuesday night pretty suddenly and after not having a fever since earlier the day before. We took him to pediatric urgent care just to get him checked out and also because his skin seemed to be getting worse as well. The urgent care doctor basically checked a few things on Jacob and confirmed it was still the virus and didn't notice the skin.

We don't know if Jacob is allergic to anything, but did choose to stop giving him the children's benadryl type stuff to see if that will help alleviate the rash. We are all missing Jacob's giggles, smiles and laughs and hope that he gets better soon. Even after another very rough day, Jacob did get a few giggles in right before bed. We are hopeful that Jacob will be better tomorrow as we would like to road trip to Ohio to see MTU play football. Guess it will be a game time decision, no pun intended, as to whether we are able to or not...

Oh This Baby Is Suffering

When I leaned over to kiss the little guy good bye for the workday, he was HOT HOT HOT!!! He literally felt like a burner on high. I said to Amy, whoa, he's hot!! He was eating his bottle quite nicely, so Amy let Jacob finish his bottle and then tried taking his temperature. It didn't work too well under the arm, but the time that the thermometer spent under his arm, his temp was 100.3, but probably warmer. So, Amy gave him some Motrin.

After waiting 'til 7:30 or so, Amy tried calling the doctor figuring the she would just have to leave a message. To her surprise, some one answered. She noted that Jacob was sick and they started noting time to bring Jacob in during the late morning and afternoon and then Jacob's temp was noted and they said, well we have an opening at 8:30. So, of course, Amy took that one. Jacob was also breaking out more and we had already discussed the potential of calling the doctor anyway.

At first sight of Jacob, the doctor said, "Oh this baby is suffering, we need to find out what his making him sick." We did find that Jacob actually gained 5 ounces since last Tuesday, so that is good as he is getting a bigger appetite. Anyway, Jacob's ears were clear of fluid and didn't have any infection. His throat was VERY red, so they did a throat culture in the lab. Jacob wasn't the trooper he was at the prior visit as things were put in his mouth/throat. Fortunately, the cultures came back negative, so he doesn't have strep. Jacob basically has a virus that needs to take its course. We are giving him children's benadryl and motrin as needed.

Amy and Jacob needed to get his prescription for his skin at Costco today. So, they went and all the while everyone was saying that that baby certainly doesn't look like he is feeling well. When I got home from work, that is the first thing I said as well. Amy said it was the best he had looked all day, even though he still didn't look very well. He ended up eating a good dinner and then got a bath as the doctor said luke warm baths would really help Jacob. He definitely felt better after the bath, but you could still tell that he just wasn't himself. We just hung out until bedtime which was a little later because Dancing With The Stars was on and he loves dancing to the music.

Today was a rough day for Jacob, but with some TLC and a close eye he should be getting better as time goes on...

Jacob Is Training For The Trails

Jacob and I put together Jacob's 4-wheeler this morning. He was all about the wiring and getting on that seat. He knew exactly where to go and was sure he was ready for the challenge. There has been a lot of pre-training and practicing what to do when he gets stuck. This isn't by choice as we have to let the battery charge for at least 18 hours the first time. This means we could be awaken at 3:00 am to get the bike on the trails. We won't need to set the alarm as Jacob is usually up at this time anyway.

After secretly practicing, we may challenge the twins as they have the inside scoop to riding as their dad was more than just a riding enthusiasts. Look out Zach and Hannah, Jacob is attempting to hang tough...

One Year Photos

Here are Jacob's one year photos:

Jacob Eats More People Food

Now that Jacob has been post partum for over a year, we are now feeding him more regular food and less formula and baby food. This is partly due to him not being as interested in the bottle. Yesterday, Jacob had more plain spaghetti and decided that wearing it can be just as fun as eating it.
Jacob can now eat eggs since he has reached the year mark, yolks and whites. The threat of allergies has now become less. He started devouring the eggs like they were candy for several bites. Then it was time to throw the eggs all over the place and become fussy. The mommy report was that Jacob was pretty fussy today. I'm sure part of it was because his cold is still dragging on and mommy isn't as fun as she usually is. She is somewhat under the weather too and trying to hold off getting a full blown cold.