First Smiles

Griffin's Room

Happy Halloween

Griffin's Cohort

Jon's brother Aaron and his wife Cindy just welcomed Griffin's first cousin.

Leah Sylvia Boxerman
Born October 20th at 7am
7lbs 1oz
20.5 inches

Our friends Dan and Aliza also just announced the birth of their son Raphael Snow.



Congratulations and we can't wait to meet them next month.

8 week photoshoot

Griffin's going to be entering his 8th week and Jon took some more photos. We'll see how much he weighs and measures at his doctor's appointment on Thursday and he'll also be getting his two month vaccinations. He's been sleeping and eating like a champ and has started making eye contact, cooing and playing with hanging objects like his mobile. We're having some of our friends with new babies over on Saturday for Halloween and will post costume pictures then.

Say hello again: Another video clip

Six Weeks Old

Fall is here and we spend most of our time together at home. Each day we go on a walk around the neighborhood.

Five Weeks Old

We had a visit from Grandpa Tom, Brenda and Thatcher.

Four Weeks Old

We celebrated Fin's one month birthday with Gramma B and Craig at George's, our favorite ice cream joint and the Lincoln Park Zoo.

Say hi to Grandpa video

Two weeks old

Griffin is two weeks old tomorrow and has already exceeded his birth weight. He's now 5lbs 15oz and 20in. long.

We've had a very eventful week since we first got home. First, we celebrated with John, Peggy and Ella. They came over and we had tummy time and a roast chicken dinner.



Friday we celebrated Griffin's one week birthday at our favorite breakfast joint M Henry.



We got him a knit carrot rattle as a gift on our way home.



Saturday I got contact lenses and took Griffin to the lake.


Then Saturday afternoon I got a fever. We called my midwife and they prescribed Tylenol and the fever broke during the night. Sunday I got another fever with abdominal pain and was told to go to the emergency room. Our friends Michelle and Jon helped us while we waited to see what would happen. Turned out I had a uterine infection and we were readmitted to Prentice Hospital (where we delivered Griffin) for antibiotic treatment. We were there four days and three nights, clocking in over nine days now at the hospital. They wanted me fever free for 48 hours before they would release us and it was scary, frustrating and tested our new parenting abilities since we had few comforts and couldn't leave the room. We met with our doula Lori and my friend Meghan visited twice after work to give Jon quick breaks, but we were otherwise antisocial. We returned home yesterday and are so happy to be back and establishing a routine.

Looking forward to a much happier third week!

Fin's FAQ

Today is Griffin's original due date.

It's hard to believe that exactly one week ago today at this exact time I woke up in labor and had a baby in my arms only seven hours later.

Thank you to everyone for your calls and emails of congratulations this week. It's been very healing and exciting for us both to share this huge turning point in our lives with you.

We got home from the hospital Tuesday (see picture) and haven't had a chance to reply to folks, so I created a FAQ for Fin until we're able to catch up. We're getting better at doing things one handed and with little sleep, but it may take awhile, so here are answers to some frequently asked questions. I'm sure we'll think of more and if you have any - please post them in the comments and we'll reply.

Until then, lotsa love, Jen

P.S. More photos and some videos too on their way.

GRIFFIN'S FAQ

What's the labor story?
We're still piecing it together from various sources. To make a long story short (as my dad would say), I woke up at 4am Friday Sept. 4th with contractions that were 5 minutes apart and my midwife said to come to the hospital once they were 2 to 3 minutes apart for at least 2 hours. We labored at home until our doula arrived sometime around 9am and went directly to the hospital because I went straight into transition and was feeling the urge to push. Being in transition with my legs crossed while driving down Lake Shore Drive was an experience and watching Jon direct bus and delivery vehicle traffic downtown during rush hour while I screamed "it's coming out!" was a highlight. When we arrived, we were told that the baby was breech and were given our limited options. We chose a cesarean birth and were released with pain meds and a healthy baby boy 5 days later.

Griffin Brady Boxerman?
Griffin is for my paternal biological grandmother Stephanie Griffin. Jon also likes the "f's for his paternal grandmother Florence. We're calling him Fin and his name has been most often misheard as "Christian" so far.

(B)rady is for Jon's maternal grandfather Bernie Morris and paternal grandfather Bill Boxerman. It's Gaelic for spirited.

How is he doing? Eating, sleeping, etc?
He's a great baby. My milk came in 2 days post partum and we're still working on the fine art that is breastfeeding. So far it's difficult but rewarding. He takes two 3-4 hour naps a day and is otherwise awake and feisty.

Is there anything you need?
We're doing great and everyone has been so generous, so there's nothing specific we need at this time. Surprises and homemade gifts are of course always welcome.
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Who's helping you?
Jon's on a research grant, so he can make up his own work schedule. We're enjoying having this time at home together to bond as a family and realize what a unique opportunity this is. Our folks are coming out in October and our friends have been bringing us food and helping with chores. We hired a housekeeper, grocery delivery and diaper service, so we're well cared for. If you'd like to come by, we'd love to see you. Just give us a call or email.

How are you getting around without a car?
We're taking taxis and Griffin seems to love it so far. So do we. It's like having a private chauffeur 24/7.

Did you circumcise him? Are you having a bris?
Yes and no.

What's up with Jen's cell phone?
It's my work cell and needs to retire while I'm on leave (except nights and weekends) so to keep things simple, please call our home or call or text Jon's iphone (the 415 number).

How much time are you taking off?
I get 12 weeks, so I will return full time the week after Thanksgiving. Jon is the childcare plan for now and we are researching more childcare options too.

How are the cats adjusting?
Django and Olive are doing well with the baby. They keep a safe distance and are getting used to his smells and sounds. We're keeping them out of the bedroom when we sleep for now.

Crib, co-sleeper or family bed?
Co-sleeper for now not that we're getting much sleep. Crib is ready once we are.

Where did you get that rainbow hat in the photo?
I make them. For more info. visit www.muffinheads.etsy.com

Introducing our son

Griffin Brady Boxerman

Born Friday, September 4th, 2009 at 11:10am

5 pounds 14 ounces

19.5 inches

All are well and appreciate the flood of love and support that we've received.

To view more photos visit:

http://www.bellababyphotography.com

Click on "view my photos" in the top right corner
Password: 0904griffinboxerman

"I multiply and find my population
I am the wheel I am the turning
And I will lay my love around you.
I am the sea of permutation
I live beyond interpretation
I scramble all the names and the
combinations
I penetrate the walls of explanation
I am the will
I am the burning
And I will lay my love around you."


"Lay My Love"
by Brian Eno

DIY Baby

The baby's almost here and everyone's been so generous with gifts, including do it yourself (DIY) crafts that I'd like to share. This sweater and booty set was made with love by my coworker Shannon. My mom made this adorable frog themed bunting with hat and these little froggie buttons. I also made a few of my beanies that I sell at www.muffinheads.etsy.com for the first photos and bought this DIY onesie at Pitchfork. The message reminded me of the mixed CD that Jon gave me in the beginning that worked its magic on me.

Jon's mixed CD to Jen, August 2002
"Summer Solstice For My Sweet"
1. Tracy by Creeper Lagoon
2. I'll Come Running by Brian Eno
3. Born Under Punches by Talking Heads
4. Black Star by Radiohead
5. Zillionare by Garcia/Brickell
6. Fearless by Pink Floyd
7. Feed Her Your Cap by Beck
8. Gold Sounds by Pavement
9. Tangerine by Led Zeppelin
10. One by Johnny Cash
11. Dishes by Pulp
12. Logical Song by Supertramp
13. Slide Away by Verve
14. My Heart's Reflection by Yo la Tengo
15. Beautiful Jam by Grateful Dead
16. Led Zep by Blonde Redhead
17. Black Out by Pavement
18. Wonderful Love by Creeper Lagoon

Photo session on the back porch

Jon tests the light meter while I enjoy the AC




















































Olive watches from the kitchen window.

Nine Months

We'll be 36 weeks this week and only just got around to taking some photos, since our only other photos so far are the few from the Boxerman shower at 20 weeks. It's amazing how much my body has changed now that we're in the final stretch (literally). I have total cabbage patch feet because of the swelling. Jon's been great about making sure my feet are elevated properly and giving me foot massages. I gotta say I'm gonna miss being spoiled once the baby comes. I bought some PJ's that say "it's all about me" just incase he forgets. ha!

I'm still going to yoga and water aerobics once a week and also spent the weekend keeping cool at the public pool and the lake. I just finished the first two Sookie Stackhouse books that inspired the True Blood TV series and just started reading the Chronicles of Narnia for the first time (in plot sequence, not order they were written). I'm loving my summer of trash reading and I'm really enjoying Narnia so far. I can't believe I've never read them before.

I'm still commuting on my bike with my physician's permission and despite mourning my old bike seat that was stolen a few weeks ago, it's still far superior to walking with my swollen feet and severe waddle.

My work is throwing us a shower during lunch hour on Tuesday. I was told almost 30 people rsvp'd, including some of my clients and vendors and we're both looking forward to it. I'm taking the day off to commute in with Jon for the shower and then go to our 36 week midwife appointment when we'll go over labor and delivery. The baby's considered full term at 37 weeks, but our 9/11 due date is at 40 weeks and you could go til 42 before we have to evict it, so it's anyone's guess really.

Our 6th and final childbirth class is this Thursday when we'll discuss newborn care and finally get a chance to socialize with a potluck. We managed to make friends with a couple who shares our due date, but it wasn't because there was time in class to bond. We took the hospital tour last Saturday with Peggy and John, ran into this other couple there and all went to brunch together. It's been great meeting other newbies to share these experiences with.

32 weeks

Hope you all had a happy 4th of July. I had some kind of freak hormone surge. Inbetween bouts of crying and nausea, we went to a parade in Evanston where Jon's campus is located. It was raining and there were some great community entrants, so it was worth it and I felt much better once distracted. Two words: nutella croissant.

Last weekend we nested a bit more by cleaning out our closets, generated 4 bags of donation items and finished up the nursery for now, or at least 'til Yoshimi is mobile and starts being a menace. Prenatal yoga is going well and water aerobics is AWESOME. It's like the dance of the hippos from Fantasia with a soundtrack and everything. We get to use water weenies, floating weights and then we have free swim after. Feels sooo good to be weightless especially now that I'm 32 weeks and counting. Jon took this photo tonight and I think it looks more like a beer gut than a baby. Guinness Boxerman? Had another midwife appointment today and she says the baby's in a good position already aka. head first. That explains why I feel like I'm being kicked in the ribs.

We started our childbirth class last Thursday. There are a LOT of couples and so far we've just watched scary videos, played ice breakers and drew our "picture of labor" to share with the group. Jon drew me with lots of water droplets flying 'cause his picture of labor is "fluids." Mine was of me puking while Jon comforts me and a gang of medical residents take notes on clipboards. We're now discussing the choices for our "birth plan." I've already started having practice contractions called Braxton Hicks. It's all pretty surreal.

We signed up for a cloth diaper service and the first delivery is Aug. 30 just incase Yoshimi comes early. I've found some pretty cute cloth diaper covers that eliminate the need for pins or clips like these ones.

Met with HR at my work, confirmed my 12 week maternity leave plan and submitted the forms. If the baby's on time, then I'll return just after Thanksgiving. Crazy!

This weekend is Pitchfork - our annual indie music festival tradition and we've got lots of fun stuff planned with folks in from out of town. I've got a weekend pass and I'll be the one in the support stockings with the folding chair and battery operated fan (while waiting in line for the portapotty of course). The line-up is pretty sick. Yoshimi is of course most excited for The Flaming Lips. Will let you know how it goes.

FRIDAY, JULY 17

8:40 (A)Built to Spill

7:20 (C)The Jesus Lizard

6:10 (A)Yo La Tengo

5:00 (C)Tortoise

SATURDAY, JULY 18

8:40 (A)The National

8:30 (B)The Black Lips

7:30 (B)Matt and Kim

7:25 (C)Beirut

6:30 (B)Lindstrøm

6:15 (A)Doom

5:30 (B)Wavves

5:15 (C)Yeasayer

4:30 (B)Ponytail

4:15 (A)Final Fantasy

3:35 (B)Bowerbirds

3:20 (C)The Pains of Being Pure at Heart

2:40 (B)The Antlers

2:30 (A)Fucked Up

1:45 (C)Plants and Animals

1:45 (B)The Dutchess & The Duke

1:00 (A)Cymbals Eat Guitars

1:00 (B)Disappears

SUNDAY, JULY 19

8:40 (A)The Flaming Lips

8:30 (B)The Very Best

7:30 (B)Mew

7:25 (C)Grizzly Bear

6:30 (B)Vivian Girls

6:15 (A)M83

5:30 (B)Japandroids

5:15 (C)The Walkmen

4:30 (B)DJ/Rupture

4:15 (A)The Thermals

3:35 (B)Women

3:20 (C)Pharoahe Monch

2:40 (B)The Killer Whales

2:30 (A)Blitzen Trapper

1:45 (C)Frightened Rabbit

1:45 (B)Dianogah

1:00 (A)The Mae Shi

1:00 (B)Michael Columbia

A=Aluminum Stage, B=Balance Stage, C=Connector Stage

Nesting

Over the weekend we did some nesting and built the changing table Jon's parents got us.

We found a glider rocking chair on Craigslist Saturday that happens to match the crib and it was easy to pick-up 'cause it was just down the street.



Our new friends Peggy and John that are expecting a few weeks after us gave us a baby bathtub, so we put it in the changing table to protect the pad from cats for the meantime.

The crib has become a handy storage area for baby stuff and my exercise ball.



Had another doctor's appointment today, got a clean bill of health and permission to start a new prenatal swim class on Monday. It means I'll have to start going to yoga on the weekends now, but i've only got 10+ weeks to go so why not.

We also start our childbirth class next week, so that's 3 days a week scheduled for baby and it's not even here yet!

Can't wait for the 3 day weekend. Hope everyone has a very happy 4th of July.

Our little butternut squash

Every week I get emails from Baby Center about my pregnancy progress and they always use a food to describe the baby's size. Our baby has been a pea, grape, apricot, peach - you name it and now apparently it's a butternut squash! We're 29 weeks now and officially in the third trimester. Supposedly it's 3 pounds and 15 in. already.

Things are going really well thus far and we're starting to prepare for the arrival, expecially now that we're being showered with baby stuff. No weird cravings - I just like things I didn't before like grapefruit juice, balsamic vinegar and mustard. I also dislike chicken which is very strange for me, but I've found plenty of other things to eat like buffalo mozzarella. Sooo good. My feet are beyond swollen, my hair and nails are awesome and I'm more clumsy than usual. What else? Oh, there's Hemmy - but that's a story for another time.

We took an infant safety class this week (our first baby class) that covered cpr, carseats and sids. In 2 weeks we start a 6 week childbirth class that we're looking forward to - mainly to meet more friends. I've been going to a prenatal yoga class that's been great for my sore hips and in 2 weeks I start a 12 week prenatal water aerobics class - though I'll be due 10 weeks from then so I may not be able to finish.

I'm just looking forward to being in a pool because it's been SO hot. Like 100 degrees hot. Summer is definitely here and we celebrated the solstice last weekend at Lincoln Park at PeaceFest followed by dinner salad bar at RJ Grunts. We also celebrated by turning on our ceiling fans and air conditioning unit for the first time and last night I wrangled my neighbor into moving my futon from the office, so I can now sleep directly in front of the AC. I baked him a pie to thank him which wasn't the best idea in this heat, but I know he'll appreciate the gesture.

We're looking forward to 4th of July which is insane here because everyone sets off fireworks and to Pitchfork Music Fest when I'll have a 4 day weekend vacation with friends from out of town and lots of bands I love.

Yoshimi (still the nickname of choice for the unborn) is most excited for The Flaming Lips Sunday night of course.

P.S. Some folks have asked us where we're registered, so the links are below.

http://www.target.com/registry/baby/KEW6IYHDJHXV


http://www.giggle.com/registry_detail.aspx?id=22635

http://www.rei.com/GiftRegistryDetails/GR1942750

P.P.S. We're also getting ready for www.wrockstock.com

Pics from our baby shower at Eleanor's 6/14

Double blind baby food taste test.

Soap sculptures

Paint yer own onesie

Pics from our baby shower at the Boxerman's 5/31