Few more photos...

Funky mountain town in the sky...

Hudson with Grandma & Grandpa

My itty bitty with Grandma. The small guy at bottom of this print.

Laid-back attitude, eclectic style and funky charm makes Asheville NC a hidden little gem. We spent the memorial weekend with my mom and stepdad in the town and at the Biltmore Estate. We all had a wonderful time but I wish I would've taken more pictures of the gardens at the Biltmore. Maybe next time.

Seems like forever...

It's hard to believe it's been a year since Dad moved on. As Greg and I spoke about Al it felt like he'd been gone longer. Perhaps when you miss someone here, time here feels like forever. Not a day passes when I don't think of him or wish I could share thoughts with him. However, on some days I feel him close. Usually when I'm driving alone on my way to work.

They set the headstone earlier this month. I'm just glad it's finally taken care of. At first, I wasn't a fan of the font and went with it because I was tired of waiting for other decisions to be made. But the more I looked at it, the more it reminds me of the font used on the trials bikes he rode. All in all, it's fitting.

I love and miss you, Dad.

Chris

hello my name is...

Paper Plate Hat 101

I knew Hudson would have artsy projects for school but this was bizzare. Tomorrow at school they have an Annual Hat Parade. They sent home the paper plate weeks ago and I just stared at it. How in the world do I turn a plate into a hat for him to wear? Let me tell you - after a trip to the craft store - I decided I'm pretty good at this hat making business! :) He'll be a little Court Jester!

Midwife Appointment

I had my first "Group" appointment today. The "group" part sounds odd, I know. There are about 8 of us due this fall and two midwives in the practice. The group appointments are a way for us to discuss issues that we all may be facing as well as other topics such as nutrition, prenatal care, newborn care, etc. It's definitely something new the hospital is doing and since very few women choose midwifery as an option, the group is small and personal. We meet monthly from 9-11am. Once I get into September I'll do the group session along with another personal appointment. Overall, the midwife experience has already exceeded my expectations. It was everything I wanted with Hudson but couldn't find.

The philosophy of nurse-midwifery is based on providing health care to women, while acknowledging and respecting their needs. They encourage patient education and active participation all as part of the individualized health care experience. As part of the commitment to nonintervention, midwives do not advocate the use of pain medication or invasive procedures during the normal birthing process. However, they do not discount them. They encourage women to actively participate in the birthing process as well as providing education, emotional and social support.

My only concern is that hospital about 1.5 hours from where Greg works. I'll probably just have to drive myself to the hospital. It won't be the first time. :)