KaDeN's NeW kIcKs!

I have to admit, I am a sucker for Pumas! I have a few pairs, Justin has a couple and I only thought it was fair for Kaden to have some too. Now I know that he won't be able to wear these for long but they were just too darn cute not to buy!!

Baby's First Halloween

I think Mommy might have enjoyed Halloween a little more than Kaden did this year but we made the most of it. We started off the day with Deante's soccer game and then we decided to head out to Aunt Becky and Uncle Adam's so Colton and Kaden could enjoy their first Halloween together. Colton was a cute little dalmation and Kaden was our little monkey! We put the kiddos in their costumes and tried to head out and visit a few of Adam and Becky's neighbors but Kaden wasn't having it, he hated his little costume! After the failed attempt at trick or treating we helped with handing out candy to the trick or treaters that came to the house, we had to of had over 250 trick or treaters and they came in all shapes, sizes and scary costumes! By the end of the night Kaden was tuckered out and we had too much candy to know what to do with.

South Family Pictures

Janet's birthday was in August and we decided to hire a photographer to take family pictures for her. We picked the best possible day-the color on the trees were vibrant and leaves were falling, the weather was perfect! We met the photographers at Loose Park in the afternoon and the park was PACKED! We weren't the only ones looking for a good photo!

Here are a few pictures from Janet's camera, the photographer's pictures are still to come!

Take ONE=Kaden screaming!!
Take TWO=Kaden go bye-bye!

Trip #2 to Bentonville!

Mike, my sister's husband, was going to be out of town for awhile so Kaden and I figured we would head back down for a few days since I was still out on maternity leave. Just like last time, Kaden did a great job in the car, he slept the whole way to Carthage where Grandma met us at home for lunch.
We got down to Bentonville just in time for the kids to get home from school. They were very excited to see Kaden, they use to look forward to Aunt Kayla coming down, now I think they only care to see Kaden!!

The little ones stayed at home with Jennifer and Kaden on Tuesday, while I got to go and watch Brett play football. Brett is fairly tall for his age but if you ask me, some of these boys were taking some major steriods, they were HUGE! 6'2 and 220 is not fair for a 6th grader to go up against!

Since the kiddos still had to go to school, Jennifer and I got to get in some shopping! Kaden loved being at the outdoor mall, he loves the fresh air! Wednesday night we got a visit from Cousin Brad and Blake and I played some Sorry, which I was finally able to beat him at!!!

Thursday was a very sad day, we had to say goodbye to the kiddos as they left for school and had to pack up for our ride back to KC. We weren't looking forward to the drive but we were very happy to see Daddy when we got home!!

Louisburg Cider Mill

Although the little guy is a little too young to remember his first pumpkin patch, I couldn't miss documenting it. Since the Chiefs are a little predictable this year, we decided to head out on a Sunday afternoon with Grandma Janet, Adam and Becky, and Colton. I was completely surprised at how busy the cider mill was!

Once we arrived we got in line for the hay ride around the pumpkin fields and then we went to visit the goats. After leaving the pumpkin patch we went to the cider mill and Adam bought some cider donuts-YUM, YUM!

We are really looking forward to Halloween, check back for pictures of our cute little monkey!

Kaden's First Road Trip

Grandma Sara and Papa Tom were getting ready to leave for a week in Florida so Kaden and I thought it was time to take a trip down south to see them. We loaded up the Tahoe and I mean loaded up the Tahoe. I had no idea what we would need so I basically took everything except the kitchen sink for Kaden! After Tuesday's trip to Pittsburg I was a little worried about traveling 2 hours with him by myself because I wouldn't be able to jump in the back and settle him down if needed but to my surprise, he did great. The rain acted as a great soother for him and he slept the entire trip. On Thursday we got to watch the MU game with Papa Tom and unfortunately we were not good luck being in Carthage so for the next game we will make sure to stay in KC.

Great Grandma and Grandpa Earl came over on Friday to meet Kaden for the first time. He was such a good baby for them and was the quietest in Great Grandpa Earl's arms. Uncle Zack and Aunt Lindsey also came over to see Kaden, well Zack came over for breakfast!

After staying in Carthage for a night we header further south to Bentonville, to see Jennifer and the kiddos. The kiddos were fantastic with Kaden and were so helpful. I wish I had them around all the time!!

We are very excited to visit them again!

Our Rollie Pollie!

We are certainly getting good use out of the FLIP and if you don't have one, I would highly suggest getting one! They are so easy to use and you can just carry it in the diaper bag or your purse! Anyways, we have been taking some more video of Kaden and here is one where he is rolling over from his stomach to his back, he pauses once he gets to his side but he eventually finishes the roll!

In other news, Kaden is doing much better with his feedings. We believe he has acid reflux, just like his daddy, and he is now on Prevacid and it is working wonders! We have a much happier baby and he is now back to sleeping in his crib! We are still waking up every 3-4 hours but we are hoping that will turn into 4-5 hours!

Enjoy the video!

4 weeks old...

I can't believe it but our little monkey is 4 weeks old today! Kaden is growing and changing every day. His features are becoming more and more pronounced and it is starting to look like his hair is getting lighter! Could I actually get my blond hair, blue eyed boy!?

We have started having more and more belly time and he seems to LOVE it! He actually will fall asleep on his one if placed on his belly! We are also taking advantage of the lovely fall weather and taking daily walks which Kaden normally sleeps through but he loves the fresh air!

Here is our 4 week picture!!

The FIRST video of Kaden...

I am such a terrible mom. :o) Kaden will be 4 weeks old tomorrow and I haven't taken one video of him yet!

This morning we were enjoying some play time while the Chiefs game was on and I thought it was a great opportunity to get the FLIP out and record the little man. Apologies for the profanity in the background, Daddy wasn't too happy with the Chiefs!

Enjoy.

It's been awhile...

Kaden is a little over 3 weeks old! He is getting so big and changing every day. We are having a little issue with eating, his poor stomach hurts after he eats and he spits up quite a bit. We are waiting to hear back from the pediatrician to see what our next move is but hopefully soon he will be a much happier baby!

As for milestones, we were hoping to take him to his first Royals game this past Monday but the weather wasn't cooperating so Mommy and Baby stayed home while Daddy went to the game. He is following toys with his eyes and starting to reach for them. He has a really good grip and loves to hold on to your fingers.

Grandma Sara and Papa Tom are coming up this Saturday to see us and will get their first opportunity to watch Kaden while I throw a bridal shower for Jennifer and Justin attends the bachelor party for Jake, Jason and Chris. (Lots-O-Weddings coming up.)

Chris and Becky are getting married on the 3rd of October (Miss Leah's 8th Birthday) and we are very excited to get Kaden all dolled up and ready for the party! We are a little behind on the birth announcements but we are getting his pictures taken by FXStudios on the 6th! Stay tuned to see the pictures and watch your mail for his announcement!

Time is FLYING-2 weeks old!!

Kaden had his two week check up today. He is now 9lbs and 20 3/4 inches long. He has almost gained a full pound since birth and has grown a full inch. It is amazing how much he has changed since day one but he does still have his blue eyes and Mommy is keeping her fingers crossed that they don't go anywhere! Kaden got another PERFECT checkup but we already knew that he was PERFECT!

Uncle Zack and Aunt Lindsey are heading up to see us this weekend, well they are going to the Chief's home opener and we just happen to be close by!!

We have been able to work in some AWAKE time during the day which is helping us get into our daily routine! Tomorrow starts the first day of our walking adventures! Mommy has a few pounds to lose for two very important upcoming weddings!

Lots of Love-Justin, Kayla and Kaden

One Week Old!

Poopy McPooperson

Our son is quite the pooper. I didn't even imagine that we would be changing his diaper as many times as we are. I think he actually thinks it is pretty fun game to play. He have now nick-named him Poopy McPooperson!

Kaden is now 5 days old and we are starting to settle in at home. The dogs have been fabulous and have really taken a liking to Kaden.

We are also starting to figure out his personality.

1. NEVER, NEVER wake a sleeping Kaden-he will let you hear about it!
2. LOVES to eat and he is so good at it!
3. Doesn't matter when you change him, he will poop as soon as a clean diaper hits his bottom.
4. Doesn't like the bouncy seat vibrator at this point but loves the swing.
5. Hates to have his clothes changed but insists on peeing on at least 3 outfits a day.

Today, Daddy got up and took Kaden to the farmers market for his weekly trip and then came home and fixed potato soup for college game day. Justin has been looking forward to this day for some time and now that Kaden is here, it is that much sweeter for him. He can only talk about the day that he will get to take Kaden to his first MIZZOU game.
Mom leaves tomorrow, pray for us!

Home Sweet Home!

After a short stay in the hospital we were able to bring Kaden home Wednesday morning. His snip, snip went very well and as soon as his observation was over, we checked out and headed home.

Once at home, we started settling in. We introduced the dogs to Kaden and that went better than anticipated. Both Stoli and Brodi are very curious but more so when he cries but they still do a great job while around him. It is only day one but we started off well. Mom got her nap, Dad got a few Xbox games in and we had a few visitors. Angela came by to see Mr. Kaden and to get another feel for what she is in for again in 8 weeks. Grandma Janet stopped by after school and Becky brought Colton over to meet his new cousin for the first time.

 

These late night feedings are certainly something we are going to have to get use to because now that Kaden is back asleep, I am wide awake! Oh and a big thanks to my mom-she is up here staying with us until Sunday and helping out with anything and everything. We are very lucky to have the extra help during this crazy transition in our lives!

A Tough Life...

Eat, Sleep, Poop...what a tough life!

Today Kaden got to meet a lot of his family and our closest friends for the first time. Papa Tom, Great Grandpa Hartley, Aunt Jennifer, Uncle Zack and Aunt Lindsey all came up from Carthage to see the little man and spend a little time with him. Papa Tom and Great Grandpa Hartley believe that Kaden is the biggest 'Hartley' to date, not sure how that can be considering he was 8lbs 2oz, guess I had one too many chili cheese dogs from Sonic!!

Kaden also received visits from Jake and Jennifer, Emily, Sarah, Adam, Justin and Tugce, Dawn, and Scott and Korie today. Tiffany and Jason came the night Kaden was born but unfortunately he was in observation so they had to peek through the nursery windows at him. Grandma Sara popped in and out all day while she held down the fort at home for us and Grandma Janet stopped by after a long day at school! He was such a good boy for everyone, so content and happy. He mostly slept but there were times he would open his eyes and look to see who was talking to him.

He has had lots of poopy diapers (Daddy has still yet to change one) and has been eating very well for such a little guy! It will certainly take a few more days to start settling into a routine but we are certainly enjoying getting to know our little monkey. He might be only a day old but I couldn't imagine not having him here with us. Crazy to think that less than 48 hours he was in my belly and we had no idea what he looked liked. Moms have told me that it doesn't take long and you won't even hardly remember what his kicks felt like or the feeling of hiccups and boy were they right! Amazing how something so precious and so perfect was tucked away hidden for 40 weeks.

Tomorrow, Kaden is set to have a minor snip and cut (his circumcision) and then hopefully will be discharged around noon if all goes well. We are looking forward to settling in at home as well as introducing Kaden to the doggies tomorrow. Mommy is looking forward to sleeping in her own bed, Daddy is looking forward to teaching Kaden how to play XBOX and getting to watch the Royals with their newest and littlest fan!

Thanks to everyone for their thoughts and prayers! He is perfect!! Stay tuned for more updates!!

Happy Birthday

Kaden Oliver South has arrived.

He made his debut into the world at 5:04 pm on Monday, August 31st. He weighed 8lbs. 2 oz. and was 19 3/4 inches long. Kaden has lots of black hair and baby blue eyes, but will he keep his blue eyes like me or will they go darker like his daddy?!?!

We hope to bring him home on Wednesday to introduce him to the rest of his family, Stoli and Brodi! We will keep you all posted on his first few days in this crazy world. Here is a picture of Kaden and daddy, hours after he was born.

Sock Monkeys

Meet Kaden and Colton's sock monkeys! These were created by a dear co-worker, Katrina. She started creating these for burn victims at a local hospital. When the children go back and forth for treatments they can take these little buddies for company. I asked that Katrina create one for Kaden and one for Colton and then identical ones to be given to a couple little boys who need a buddy. Hopefully, Kaden and Colton will cherish their sock monkey and realize that someone else has a matching monkey that helps get them through their days and will recognize at an early age what it means to give back.

Thank you Katrina, these are precious!

There is light at the end of the tunnel...

We had our 38 week appointment today and unfortunately there has been no change in our progression since last week but we knew that was a possibility. We did, however, schedule our induction date, so if Kaden doesn't come on his own in the next 12 days, we will force him out on the 31st. Our doctor offered to induce next week but that was like in 5 days, are we really ready for this. I figured a few more days wouldn't hurt anything!

Grandma Earl said that tomorrow night (20th) is a NEW moon and that I need to stay close to the hospital because there is something about a new moon and babies being born. We could only be so lucky.

We finally decided on a middle name but we are keeping it a secret until he decides to make an appearance. Check back for more updates over the next few weeks. We will post pictures as soon as we have any available.

Love to all-

Kaden is still holding out....

Well today is August 14th and we are about 2 1/2 weeks out and I was hoping Kaden might want to make an appearance today. Today is Grandpa Hartley's birthday and if he was born today, we were going to name him Kaden Milo after grandpa since his middle name is Milo. But Kaden is letting us all know that he is the boss and we are on his schedule now!!

About a month ago, I went back to FXStudios, they did our wedding pictures, and had some belly pictures done to document the past nine months. We plan on taking a few of these and hanging them above his crib and adding his newborn pictures as soon as we get them done.

We are very anxious for the next couple of weeks and really look forward to meeting Kaden. We will try to update this over the next few weeks with any type of change in his arrival. As of now we have a little bit of progress but we all know we could be at this point for multiple weeks. Kaden is due September 1st and if he doesn't come on his own before then, he is coming out on the 2nd! Looking forward to sharing him with each of you!!

Down to the last few weeks....

Well, we are anxiously awaiting Kaden's arrival. We have everything ready to go, at least we feel like we have everything ready. I guess that isn't completely true, we are having a very had time figuring out a middle name for the little tyke!! I have a few picked out which I like but Dad isn't liking them...who will win this one!?!?

We had our birthing class on Sunday and learned a LOT, not to mention saw a few things we could have lived without! And lucky for us we live 2 blocks, both right hand turns, from the hospital so getting there shouldn't be an issue.

My mom and Justin's mom came over a few weeks back and worked all weekend long on the little guy's room while I supervised! They did a great job and it surpassed my expectations. Uncle Adam came over last week and added the chair rail around the room (not pictured-but will post soon).

We hope all is well for everyone and we look forward to introducing you to our little monkey!

Love-Justin, Kayla and Kaden

Introducing Colton David South

Adam and Becky (Justin's brother and his wife) had a little baby boy on Monday, May 11th at 10:58, he weighed 6lbs 13oz and was 19 inches long! They brought him home only a few days later and are settling in perfectly. Becky says he loves to SLEEP and that he has already developed quite the personality. We are very excited for our little one to make an appearance and meet his cousin, they are destined to become best buddies from the start!

As for updates on our baby, he is GROWING and moving a lot! 11 weeks and counting till he is here! The nursery is coming together and I will post pictures as soon as it is painted and ready to go. Check back on Sunday for new baby pictures-we are having a 3D ultrasound done on Saturday and will post those pictures as soon as possible.

Love-Justin, Kayla and Kaden (we are trying this name out to see if it fits!)

DRUM ROLL.....IT's a BOY!

There is no mistake about it, BOY all the way! Here is the first picture of our little guy. We don't have any concrete names picked out just yet but we are throwing a few around that we like. If you have any suggestions please feel free to send them our way!

Justin and I couldn't be more excited to be having a little boy. We are looking forward to play days in the mud, critters being brought home in jars, bruises from climbing and everything else little boys do! Justin is very excited to take the little guy to his first Royals game and even more excited to have a little man to watch all the MIZZOU games with! I guess we will have to try for number 2 down the road and cross our fingers it is a girl so I can have a shopping buddy!

Although we are very excited about having a boy, not everyone was-Little Blakers, wanted a girl! He just knew it was a girl and had the perfect name picked out, Angelina Ballerina! Sorry Blake, maybe next time!

April 13th is the BIG DAY! Will it be a BOY or a GIRL?? We will be having our first sonogram around 3 and hopefully this little tyke will be cooperative so that we can find out what we are having! Check back on the 13th for the big reveal and the first pictures of the baby.

The South Family Blog

Welcome-

Justin and I decided that we would create a blog so that you can check in on our growing family whenever you would like. Our goal is to add updates as we move along with the pregnancy and then all of the baby's first...meeting the world, first bath, first smile and so forth! We will try to keep this as updated as possible but that might be easier to do before the baby arrives so please hang in there with us.