Trystan Alex & Raef William DeWolf

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-14T20:55:00.006-07:00

I know...lack of blogging again! What can I say....we literally run a zoo around here! We have oh so much to be thankful for this Christmas! We will be celebrating with Deb, Joel, Dusty & Stef...we can hardly wait! Boys are growing like weeds and are a constant joy!

Here are some pics of our Christmas photo shoot. Enjoy!

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas!

Update and Camping!

2011-10-04T15:12:00.011-06:00

Time for an update...sorry about the lack of blogging lately. It has been a zoo around here...literally!
Raef has been walking since a few days after his b-day and is pretty much on the run now. He sure keeps us on our toes! He is going to be quite the comedian as he is already making us laugh constantly. Trystan is busy with his big words and sentences...which makes his Uncle Ryan very proud. He loves playing in the dirt, riding the 4-wheeler and talking with all his animals..and yes, they are all his...just ask him! It is so hard to believe that our little 3 lb miracle will be 3 in less than 2 months!
We took a little camping trip last week up to Kalispell, which was a much needed break after such a busy summer. It was so nice to get away, relax and not have to do chores for 6 days! The boys loved it and we all had a great time. Here are some pics from our getaway.

Love this one...still makes me laugh

Raef's 1 Yr Photo Shoot

2011-10-04T15:04:00.006-06:00

And the cuteness continues!!

Raef turns 1!

2011-08-05T12:35:00.006-06:00

It really is hard to believe that Raef is 1 already...seriously...where does the time go?! He has brought us so much joy. We have decided he will be the comedian in our lil family. He is so close to walking and LOVES his big bro. Trystan is learning patience and is too enjoying being the big brother. It is so fun to watch them together. Alex and I can't get over these are OUR boys and how the cuteness never ends!

Here are some pics from Raef's big day!

Hey Cowboy.....

2011-06-24T16:06:00.001-06:00

Nothin' Cuter

2011-06-24T16:01:00.002-06:00

Nothin' cuter than our puppies and our baby!

New Arrivals!

2011-06-10T15:12:00.004-06:00

Meet our new arrivals! More animals = more chores, but we love it! We got our calves when they were 3 days old and the pigs were 2 months old. Trystan loves the new additions, as does Raef. Raef thinks the pigs are hilarious, which they are.

Introducing Muddy & Buddy

Love how Lulu and Gerty overlook!

Trystan feeding Lulu

Trystan feeding the 3 little pigs

Mr. Blue Eyes & Blueberry Pancakes

2011-05-18T10:17:00.002-06:00

Everyone asks if Raef's eyes are really that blue...well here's proof they are!

First taste of blueberry pancakes...to say he was pleased would be a big understatement!

Trystan...aka Puppy Whisperer

2011-05-17T21:24:00.006-06:00

Trystan loves to help take care of the puppies and the puppies LOVE him. What a very lucky little boy to grow up with puppies!

Talkin' To Grampa

2011-04-11T16:26:00.002-06:00

Love the toes...totally gets that from his daddy!

Look Who's Trying To Crawl!

2011-04-06T12:48:00.004-06:00

Raef has started to get up on all fours and is now trying to figure out how to make it work. It's so cute watching him rock back and forth, concentrating so hard. Stop growing so fast my little man!

Sickness!

2011-04-05T16:39:00.005-06:00

Our 2 1/2 year streak of being sick free in our house is over...due to a quick trip to Seattle. Alex now jokes that we will never leave the country again! It started with a cold for Alex and then made its way all the way down to Raef. Trystan & Raef have bronchitis! I hear all these moms talk about how awful it is when your little kiddos are sick, and I didn't experience it until now. Well, I should say I this is my first experience with it at home, since we all remember the journey Trystan took in the first 2 months of his life. But you know what, I have the BEST little boys! You would never know they were sick by the smiles on their faces and the laughter that we hear. It was cute when Trystan was sick and Raef wasn't yet. Trystan would cough and then Raef would imitate him. Now when Raef coughs, he looks at you with a big grin and laughs. Now, when it comes to medicine time, it is a whole different story. Who likes to take medicine anyway?! We are so blessed to have such healthy kids, which is greatly due to the fact that I am able to stay home with them and because they have great country air out here and lots of dogs for company! I have heard that kids stay much healthier when there is a dog around..well, how about 2 little boys with 18 dogs plus numerous puppies? We'd have to agree! Anyone want to buy a puppy :o)

Raef's first tooth..and other stuff!

2011-03-04T15:29:00.003-07:00

It's official...Raef's first tooth has finally poked its way thru! I have been blessed yet again with a baby that is not too affected by the whole teething process. No fussiness...just wants to be cuddled a little more than normal, which I am very happy to oblige! Raef is talking quite a bit, is sitting up all by himself, is a rolling machine and there's no doubt that he loves his mama!

We are having SO much fun watching these boys interact with one another. Trystan is paying more attention to Raef and talks to him quite a bit. It is the cutest thing. Trystan is still very good at getting Raef to laugh histerically...which only adds to his sillyness as Trystan loves to be the center of attention. Hmmmmm.....wonder where he gets that from!

I have been taking Trystan out with me to do the chores at night since it has warmed up and it only goes to show that Spring can't get here soon enough. Saying that he loves to play outside is a huge understatement. He loves telling the dogs what to do, feeding the horses hay out of his wagon, jumping off the hay bales, running down our many hills as fast as he can without falling (he is getting quite good, playing with puppies ( he is very upset right now though because there are no puppies to play with...have to wait til the end of the month when Daisy has her pups), riding the 4-wheeler, and doing things that little cowboys like to do. It is going to be a fun year!

Here is Trystan's favorite picture of the week.....just ask him and he will tell you.. "This is Grampa and he's a cowboy!" If you only knew how long Grandpa has wanted to be a cowboy!!!!

Raef's 6 Month Photo Shoot

2011-02-24T15:56:00.003-07:00

Mr.Busy

2011-02-18T15:51:00.003-07:00

Raef is a very active little 6 month old. He rolled over the very first time before Christmas and now he is a rolling machine. There is no leaving this little man alone on the floor for even a second!

He is still in love with his big bro. No one can make Raef laugh like Trystan can. There is nothing sweeter than little boy laughter!

1st Haircut!

2011-02-18T15:12:00.006-07:00

The day finally came for Trystan's first haircut...little did we know it would be after his 2nd birthday! He was a trooper thru it and dad did a great job. Dad held him up to the mirror when he was done (one of Trystan's favorite activites..it's a DeWolf thing) and he said very happily..."cool dad!"

Big Boy Bed!

2011-02-18T14:37:00.005-07:00

Trystan got a big boy bed for his birthday and we finally got it put together just after Christmas. He loves that it is "his" and will only let you sleep with him if your name is Bailey & you have a coat of soft, silver hair!

Raef's First Words

2011-01-11T11:53:00.000-07:00

Daddy & His Boys

2011-01-11T11:51:00.000-07:00

Trystan & Raef

2011-01-11T11:34:00.001-07:00

In-between Thanksgiving and Christmas

2011-01-06T15:20:00.005-07:00

Here are some pics too cute not to share!

Christmas

2011-01-06T15:09:00.007-07:00

We had a wonderful Christmas. Grama Deb & Pa came to help us celebrate. We couldn't go anywhere as we had 2 litters of puppies ready to go right at Christmas time, with another litter on the way. We had lots of fun and lots of laughs. Here are some pics:

Christmas Eve morning bacon (from our pig...Porky!)

Raef's first gun!

Big Brother Trystan had to try it out too!

Catching up....Trystan's Birthday & Thanksgiving

2011-01-06T14:49:00.007-07:00

Wow..call me a big slacker on this one! I can't believe how fast time goes by. We are having a blast with our little fam of 4. Trystan loves playing with his lil bro.....just wait til Raef can play back!
Ok, to catch up..... We took a quick trip out to Portland to celebrate Trystan's birthday and Thanksgiving. We packed a lot of fun into a short time--next time we will stay longer! Here are pics from Trystan's b-day & Thanksgiving....

Raef's 3 Month Shoot

2010-12-04T15:29:00.002-07:00

Trystan's 2 year Shoot

2010-12-04T15:25:00.002-07:00

Raef Giggling

2010-11-17T15:51:00.000-07:00

Trystan on the phone

2010-11-16T09:36:00.000-07:00

Raef's Baptism

2010-10-19T15:48:00.002-06:00

Raef was baptized on October 10, 2010. It was a special, beautiful day. We were so happy that his Godparents, Dusty & Stef, were able to be there with us.

Fun at the zoo and the maze

2010-10-19T15:31:00.005-06:00

Grampa Joel, Grama Deb, Uncle Dusty & Aunt Stef came to celebrate Raef's baptism with us. On Saturday we hit the zoo and the corn maze. It was not the best weather, but we had a great time being together anyway. We love how Trystan has no fear of animals. He loved chasing the ducks and was so determined to pet the peacock too. It will be fun when Raef can enjoy the fun too, as I am sure he will follow in his big brother's shoes. He slept both thru the zoo on Grampa's chest and thru the corn maze on Grama's chest. Not sure who enjoyed it more!

In case you are wondering.......

2010-10-19T15:28:00.002-06:00

Yes, Bailey is under all those pillows!

Mr. Trystan

2010-10-02T14:49:00.005-06:00

Trystan is one busy little man. He is nonstop from the time he wakes up until bedtime. Playing with puppies since he thinks he actually is a puppy is a big highlight of each day...drinking from the dog bowl, eating puppy food with his mouth to the floor and pointing at pheasant wings..you get the point. He rides the dogs as you would a horse...we are not sure who enjoys it more! ha He LOVES water...doesn't matter where the water is...he is in it. Anything and everything is meant to stand on...even John Deere ATV's. Here is a little taste of Trystan's adventures.......

Two Months Old!

2010-10-02T14:37:00.004-06:00

Wow--time flies when you're having fun! Raef is an absolute joy, and big brother Trystan is a great helper! We're thinking he really likes this big brother stuff cause he sure loves his baby Raef--whom he talks about quite a bit. Here are some pics to catch up from the last couple weeks.

Raef's 1st Photo Shoot

2010-09-03T16:04:00.003-06:00

Here is our newest miracle.....what an angel!

Fun at Grama & Grampa's!

2010-09-03T15:43:00.009-06:00

We had so much fun at the lake when we were in MN for Dusty & Stef's wedding. Tyrstan loved playing in the lake, fishing, driving the pontoon, Dusty's boat & bus, Grampa's 4-wheeler & JD tractor! Alex got a few ski rides in, but I did not as I am still healing :o( It will be so fun when it is time for the boys to learn. Here are some pics from the lake.....

Wedding!

2010-09-03T15:29:00.005-06:00

What a beautiful wedding! It was a great day full of fun, tears, laughter....and a lot of people! Here are some pics from the big day.....

Time at Home

2010-08-18T13:01:00.010-06:00

Time for an update! We are doing wonderful, adjusting to being a family of 4. Things are going so well and we only hope that will continue! Every day, Trystan shows his love for his little brother more and more. He is so attentive and is a big help to mommy during the day, and a big help to daddy taking care of all the chores.

Here's a whole mess of pics to catch up from the past 2 weeks! Enjoy!

Raef's first trip to the lake!

Who needs a chair when you have a dog to sit on?!

Hangin' out with Grampa Joel

Weeds!

And of course I have to taste them!

Brotherly Love

Grampa Joel & His Boys

Grama Deb & Her Boys

Love all that hair!

Introducing........

2010-08-03T21:03:00.005-06:00

Raef William DeWolf! Born August 2 @ 8:22am. 7 lbs 8 oz and 20 3/4 inches long with a full head of beautiful blonde hair. Mom and Rafe are doing great. Dad is very proud to have another DeWolf boy to carry on the family name. Trystan loves his baby brother..giving kisses and sharing his crackers and paci already. We are so blessed with our 2 miracle boys. Thank you for all the prayers!

It's almost baby time!

2010-07-28T14:09:00.004-06:00

It seems as if miracle baby #2 is going to join our family on August 2nd! I went to the dr. yesterday and found out there had been no change from last week's appointment. We are all shocked at how long I have been able to carry this baby--God is truly amazing! Time seems to be moving slow, but we are enjoying our last days of being a family of 3. Trystan is getting excited too. When we ask him where the baby is, he very gently rubs my tummy and says "baby" SO cute! We will keep you posted on the arrival!

And because it would be wrong to post without pics, here are some pics of our little cowboy...

36 weeks plus!

2010-07-13T15:21:00.003-06:00

It's a big week around here for us...I have made it to the 36 week point in this pregnancy! I had my stitches removed today--so happy that is over with! We are now just waiting for contractions to start and then will head into the hospital for a c-section. We are excited beyond belief that we have made it this far...and the anticipation of finding out the gender of this little one is driving us crazy! Time will tell and it shouldn't be long now....we'll keep everyone posted!

Here I am at 36 weeks....

Trystan's 18 month Pictures

2010-06-15T15:08:00.008-06:00

Another great shoot! Our baby boy is not a baby anymore....sniff sniff....he is now a little boy, soon to be a big brother! So fun to watch him grow daily--he is such a sweet, sweet joy in our household.

Have you heard?

2010-06-11T10:55:00.005-06:00

Our ASD funny farm is growing! Meet Porky & Pippin

Porky

Pippin

And meet Nana & LuluNana is the mama goat and Lulu is little kid. Lulu is not Nana's kid, but Nana is going to be a mom at the end of July! Nana and Lulu are milking goats. We plan to use the milk for our puppies and Alex wants to take a crack at making goat cheese and butter.

Trystan loves all of his new animals as you can see. We love that he is not afraid. He's growing up to be a great little country boy!

What's Cookin'?

2010-05-27T20:04:00.002-06:00

A sweet, sweet pot of Trystan!

Fun with Grampa Joel and Grama Deb

2010-05-27T11:16:00.002-06:00

Grampa & Grama were here this past weekend. Although the weather was not ideal, we still had a great time. Projects were completed and a lot of fun was had! Trystan showed them all of his new tricks, words, ect and showed them what a comedian he is. It is so fun to think about the next time they come visit, we will be a family of 4!

Just because......

2010-05-27T11:10:00.001-06:00

it is too cute not to share.

A new hiding spot

2010-05-12T16:43:00.002-06:00

27 weeks!

2010-05-12T16:11:00.004-06:00

Many have been asking to see my progress....not just hear about it, so here you go :o)

I am feeling good and am doing a good job of behaving myself. This baby is constantly on the move(doing somersaults as I type this), just as Trystan was. I have past the point where I went into labor with Trystan, and now just need to make it past 29 weeks to pass the point where he was born. The surgery I had is definitely helping to make this possible! I have been having ultrasounds every 2 weeks to watch my progress, and so far, everything looks great. I had my regular OB appointment yesterday, and they have decided to take the stitches out WHEN I hit 36 weeks....not IF, WHEN :o) And then we wait...could be hours, days or weeks. My Dr. joked about how funny it would be if I went over 40 weeks and I told her it would not be funny at all as I am in Dusty's wedding on August 28th--just 20 days after my due date!

We are just so thankful for such a gracious and loving God! It is such a scary time, knowing all we went thru with Trystan, but know that HE has a plan for this special babe too. Trystan's life is a constant testimony to us and all those who prayed so earnestly for his life. To look at him now and think there was a time that we almost lost him is almost unfathomable. God gave us our 1st miracle baby, Trystan and we are excited to meet our next lil' miracle!

A boy and his dog

2010-05-12T16:04:00.004-06:00

Remember this?

The love affair continues......

Trystan's Sandbox

2010-04-22T16:58:00.005-06:00

Grampa Joel & Grama Deb came to the rescue this past weekend when I was in the hospital, and on the agenda was a sandbox for Trystan. He LOVES it and is not afraid to get dirty...what a true country boy. Now, if we can just convince Max, our big Weimaraner, that the sandbox is not for him...he loves to lay in the warm sand and become camouflage.

Check out our country boy!

Baby Update

2010-04-22T16:39:00.002-06:00

These past 2 weeks have been a roller coaster to say the least, but all is well now and we pray it stays that way! On Saturday, I went into surgery to have my cervix stitched, as it was diminishing as it should when I am about to go into labor. They have been watching me very closely since I became pregnant and were hoping they could control the situation the conservative way..with shots and drugs. But, my body had another plan and is why my Dr.'s decided to perform the surgery. They let me go home on Sunday afternoon on very restricted activity, which is not easy for me since I am so active. I went in for another ultrasound yesterday and my cervix looks as it should so we are giving many thanks to God and my wonderful team of Dr.'s. I will go back in two weeks to see how I am progressing.
Many of our family and friends have stepped up to help us out and we couldn't be more appreciative. It will be a busy couple months ahead of us...but we will do what it takes to keep this little one in as long as possible!
Here are some pics of our little one at 23 weeks. Adorable! Can't wait (but I will be happy to wait) to touch those adorable toes!

No more duck?

2010-04-12T20:49:00.004-06:00

It was a sad day on Friday, well so we thought. Trystan poked a hole in his bath duck, and the duck is no more. Well, at least for holding water. Before I had a chance to deflate it, he drug it out into the living room and had a ball with it as you can see. He is wearing his dad's favorite shirt....Conserve Water...Drink Chocolate Milk! Alex and I several times a day look at each other and ask if it is possible for Trystan to get any cuter...and every day he does! We can't wait to see what his sibling will look like!

2010-03-21T19:09:00.005-06:00

I have to apologize to our faithful followers for my lack in blogging lately. It's been busy around here with new puppies, vet appointments, dr. appointments and a very active 16 month old! We are all doing great and have been enjoying the beautiful weather here in Montana. Trystan is such a joy and brings so much laughter into our household. He is definitely taking after his daddy in the entertaining department. He gets all the cuteness from his mommy :o) He has been walking for awhile now, and has really begun to master it. He LOVES to play outside, get dirty as all little country boys and girls should, and help Mommy & Daddy with the dogs and the chickens. We are loving this stage in his life and just thank God that we are able to enjoy it with him.

Baby #2 is doing great as well. Today is the halfway point--can't believe how fast the time is flying! My last appointment showed that this lil one is right where he/she should be at this stage in the game so we are thankful. I have been put on Progesterone shots, which I will get once a week until delivery. I had the first one on Friday night and let's just say I am glad that there are only 19 more to go! ha Nurse Alex is administering the shots and seems to be a pro at it. Must be from all the practice on the puppies! I do have to say that these shots, which are giving in my hip, are no picnic in the park as the needle is BIG and the medication is THICK, but hey, if it helps me to carry to full term, it is 200% worth it! I am a Montana cowgirl now, so I can handle just about anything, right?!

Anyone wanna buy a puppy?

2010-03-02T20:58:00.006-07:00

Snow Day

2010-01-30T11:06:00.003-07:00

Fun in the snow with Dad's shades before it melts. Am I cool or what?? I can't wait until I am big so I can sled down the big hills with Dad.

In case you haven't heard........

2010-01-14T10:53:00.003-07:00

Trystan is going to be a BIG brother! Our due date is August 8th, which is Uncle Ryan's birthday, and just 20 days before Dusty & Stef's wedding!

This is considered a high risk pregnancy, since Trystan came so early. I have a wonderful team of doctors that will be watching us very closely to help this lil one stay in as long as possible, which is extremely comforting to us. We are praying for a long, healthy, boring pregnancy---something you really pray for when you have been down the road we have been.
I am battling morning sickness this time around too--all day long. It is not as easy to deal with when you have a little one to take care of. But you know what--I keep reminding myself that it is all worth it and hopefully will be over soon!

I had my first appt on January 6th, where I was just over 9 weeks and got to see our baby! He/she looks like a lil puppy--how fitting! We are not going to find out what we are having, just as we did with Trystan--which only prolongs the excitement. We couldn't imagine it any other way!

Moosechievous

2010-01-14T10:44:00.004-07:00

Moosechievous is a term that we use a lot to describe Trystan. He is into everything, and thinks of course he is so funny.....hmmm...wonder where he gets that from! Plus he loves moose--must get that from his aunt Laura! We have several built-in shelves, which he loves to organize and reorganize for me. Look at that grin!

"uh-oh, I've been caught!"

"Maybe if I give mom a big smile, I won't get in trouble. Who can resist my grin?!"

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

2010-01-04T12:56:00.007-07:00

We had a wonderful Christmas AT HOME! In case you don't remember, we spent last Christmas in the NICU with Trystan.

Although we were very thankful he was doing so well, it was way better having him home with us. The Billings Gazette did an article about Trystan and Christmas in the NICU, which was really special to us. The Gazette had asked the NICU doctors and nurses who they could contact for a special story, and they all said Trystan. He sure has made a lasting impression in so many lives. Here's the link in case you missed it: http://billingsgazette.com/news/local/article_cc87d7d8-f0f2-11de
-85bd-001cc4c03286.html

We spent Christmas morning with just the three of us...sleeping in, a little sledding and a special trip to the shed, where Santa left some presents. Trystan had a blast with the presents--ok more so with the paper, bows and boxes.

We then heading into Grama Ruth's house, where we had a wonderful time with her, along with Jared & Brynde. We never leave there hungry!

Saturday after Christmas, we patiently waited for Grampa Joel and Grama Deb, as they trucked their way thru the horrible storm that hit MN, ND and parts of MT. Thankfully, they made it safe and sound Saturday night. Trystan was very happy to see them and gave them a big smile on their way in. We really enjoyed our days with them and another Christmas. Trystan's biggest moment was when he got a JD 4-wheeler from Grampa Joel and Grama Deb, along with numerous other JD toys. He already loves the green paint, but are we really surprised??!!

We have so much to be thankful for and are so excited to what 2010 has in store for us! Happy New Year!

4 Generations

2009-12-15T12:19:00.003-07:00

What a precious memory!

MN Birthday Bash!

2009-12-15T12:13:00.004-07:00

Trystan is one lucky boy--he got to have 2 birthday parties! It was such a fun day, especially to have so many family members celebrate with us. He had a very cool cowboy boot cake, which I am not sure if he or his dad enjoyed it more! Enjoy these pics!

Josiah & Jill's Wedding

2009-12-15T12:06:00.004-07:00

What a beautiful wedding! We were so happy that we were able to go to MN to be a part of it, although it was COLD! We had a wonderful time and are happy to have Jill in our family. Trystan partied with us until the very end--he was so good and apparently did not want to miss anything--especially his dad's crazy dance moves! Here are some pics from the wedding....

Trystan's 1 Year Pictures

2009-12-09T16:01:00.005-07:00

No words needed........

Trystan's 3rd Flight!

2009-12-09T15:03:00.004-07:00

We were able to fly to MN for my cousin Josiah's wedding last week, which was beautiful by the way! We are happy to have Jill in our family.

Trystan took his 3rd flight and was a parent's dream on the flight! In case you don't remember, he flew in a private jet at 1 week old and again at a month old. This flight was much more enjoyable for all of us! He slept quite a bit, and of course was a hit when he was awake, especially with the pretty flight attendant and 2 lady pilots! Here are some pics from his 3rd flight!

Trystan's 1st Birthday Bash!

2009-11-29T17:42:00.007-07:00

Trystan is a BIG boy now, as he is 1! It is purely a miracle that he made it to celebrate his 1st birthday and we are so thankful!

Trystan spent his birthday with mom, dad, Grampa Fred & Grama Shirley and his Godparents, Jarrett & Ashley. It was an emotional day, packed full of fun. Trystan even got to watch the guys shoot off his very own shotgun that we bought him the day he was born. He squealed with delight--made his dad proud!

Trystan's cake was a very amateurish cowboy hat, which he was able to devour all by himself. He had a great time, but was quite concerned when dad stuck his finger in for a taste (see pics below)

We ended his party with a wonderful dinner at Montana's Rib & Chop House---a must if you ever come to Billings. He had a whole mess of new foods, which we paid for the next day haha.

What a fun day we had, one that we will always remember. Now we look forward to his next party on Saturday in MN. From what we have heard, Grama Deb has quite the party planned!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-03T19:15:00.004-07:00

We had a busy day full of puppy clients and kennel building, so we didn't get out to trick or treat, but we had fun anyway! Thanks to Grama Shirley and Grampa Fred for my shirt and hat. You did pretty good on the sizes, considering you bought it for me before I was even born!
Only 17 days until my birthday!

Tomorrow (November 4th) is the anniversary of a day that we will never forget. It's the day we went in for a routine ultrasound, only to find out I had to be admitted to the hospital immediately as it was evident Trystan was coming early. I think back on that day, and can still remember it as if it was yesterday. We know now it was all a part of God's perfect plan to bring Trystan into this world kicking and screaming, at only 29 weeks. I have to say that all that magnesium, those 3 painful steroid shots to help develop his lungs, numerous iv's, medications, monitors, not as many showers as I would have liked, the inactivity, and the 20+ dr's and nurses in the delivery room for Trystan's arrival was all worth it! We have so much to be thankful for.

Update

2009-10-27T15:02:00.007-06:00

Wow--has it really been over a month since our last post?! We have been really busy around here with puppies, clients, more puppies, more clients, kennel building projects, and oh yeah.....Trystan crawling around like it's nobody's business!! And I thought my life was busy before! Ha He is changing right before our eyes and we love what each new day brings. He definitely has his dad's humor, as he loves to hear himself talk and laughs at himself constantly! He has already learned that he can feed the dogs while he is eating in his highchair--he loves to share. He loves his new puppy, Gizella, and she loves him. He loves to wear daddy's hats. Saying that he loves bath time would be the understatement of the year. He has outgrown his infant tub, so Alex found him an inflatable duck, which he loves. It even quacks.

We have a busy couple months ahead of us as well. A BIG birthday for our little miracle boy, a visit from his Grampa Fred and Grama Shirley, and a trip to MN for a cousin's wedding where Trystan will take his 3rd airplane ride and will have another birthday party! Fun, fun and more fun will be had!

Here are some pics from the past month...........

9 month Pictures

2009-09-23T14:27:00.003-06:00

We had a blast once again at Trystan's 9 month photo shoot back in August. We are blessed to have a great photographer, although it does help to have the cutest little miracle boy there ever was! Here are just a few shots of our little heart breaker in the making..........

Fun with Grampa Joel and Grama Deb

2009-09-23T14:10:00.005-06:00

Grama and Grampa C. came to visit this past weekend and we had a blast! Time always flies when they come to visit. This time mom and dad did not make them work too hard so they could spend more time with me! Grampa still got to play in the dirt with a big tractor..I can't wait until I am big enough to play on a tractor. Right now I will have to settle for playing with my John Deere's that are just my size.

Look at the fun we had!

Look what I can do...

2009-09-13T17:21:00.001-06:00

Looks like Daddy needs to add the top rail on my crib considering I am not actually standing in any of these pics!

First Dip in the Musselshell River

2009-08-26T20:41:00.001-06:00

Too bad I don't live closer to Grampa Joel and Grama Deb because as you can see, I LOVE the water! Mom and dad took me for a swim in the river where the dogs love to swim. Yukon, Jill and Shynuk got to come along and swim with me. We had so much fun!

Puppy Love

2009-08-21T10:29:00.000-06:00

9 months!

2009-08-21T10:18:00.000-06:00

So hard to believe Trystan is 9 months old! Seriously, where does the time go? He is doing great and growing like a weed. He is up to 16 lbs now and just over 27 1/2 inches long. His Dr is amazed at his development, since Trystan is doing what most 9 month olds are doing. He really should only be doing what a 6 month old would be doing, so we are grateful! They told us he would catch up by about the time he was 2 or 3, but he seems to be beating those odds too. What can we say....we truly do have a miracle boy!

Trystan has been busy eating fruits and veggies. And do you know what his favorite is? Zucchini, which is a great thing, since my garden is exploding with them! I have been busy making baby food from veggies in our garden, so Trystan too can savor the Rocky Top goodness! Yum Yum

His new favorite toy is his farm, which is only fitting! Here are some fun shots of him playing Farmer T.

Mommy says I am growing up too fast.....

2009-08-07T08:49:00.001-06:00

Look what I learned to do in the past two weeks........

Oh, and I almost forgot......I am getting my 2 bottom teeth! Mommy keeps trying to
get a picture of them, but I am not cooperating right now and think it is pretty funny!

Just a few more shots...

2009-07-30T10:51:00.001-06:00

because we love to show off our little man.....

Getting Bigger...

2009-07-30T10:47:00.000-06:00

Remember this picture?And this?

Well, look at me now!

Where does the time go! It is a HUGE reminder of the miracle Trystan is! God is so Good!

Trystan and Nerissa

2009-07-30T10:43:00.000-06:00

Trystan met his newest cousin, Nerissa. Even though there are 7 months in-between them, they are not much different in weight! Trystan liked to hold her hand and love on her. They will have fun when they get bigger too! Here are some fun pics of them....

Trystan and Tanner

2009-07-30T10:38:00.000-06:00

Trystan and Tanner had so much fun together! Tanner was a big help in watching Trystan, and he can't wait until Trystan gets bigger so they can have more fun. There will be a lot of John Deere talk, we are sure! Here are some fun pics of them......

First Trip Out West!

2009-07-30T10:13:00.000-06:00

Trystan made his first trip out to the beautiful Northwest! It was a fun trip, but very, very busy. So many new people to meet and lots of work that needed to be done!

We spent the weekend in Portland with Grampa Fred and Grama Shirley, along with aunts, uncle and cousins, Tanner and Nerissa. I really had fun with them, especially Tanner. I also met Shirley's mom, Donna and sister, Dee. More family to love on me!

We then headed up to Seattle to pack up Bestemor to move out to Montana with us. It was a big job, but was done with a lot of help from family and friends. Trystan was able to spend some time with the Sumi's----not sure who enjoyed it more! He also spent some time with Great Grandma Margaret, another prayer warrior in his life!

Here are some pics from out trip......sorry, no pictures of the packing as there was no time!

Update

2009-07-13T16:39:00.000-06:00

It's been a while since an update....hence the numerous entries today! We have been so busy around here, but are loving our summer....especially with our little guy. We had a very important appointment with Trystan's cardiologist today and received some great news! Trystan had an issue with his heart 6 months ago where the blood was flowing the wrong way in one artery. His Dr. wanted to wait 6 months before doing anything to see if it would possibly fix itself, or if he would need to perform surgery. Well, with many prayers answered, it has fixed itself, which means no surgery and no more appointments with the cardiologist! Yah!

He is a very busy growing boy. He is now 15 lbs and just over 27 inches---he grew an inch and a half in a month!! Dad is very happy..and so is mom. I wonder how long it will take for him to catch up to me!
We will be leaving on Friday to go visit family in Portland and Seattle and then will be moving Bestemor (Grandma Marie) to Montana! We will have a lot of pictures to share when we get back!

Thank you for your continued prayers for Trystan... It is so evident that God is working in him!

Sporting my new John Deere jacket from Grampa Joel and Grama Deb!

Driving....and more driving

2009-07-13T16:35:00.001-06:00

We have been busy delivering puppies the past week to their new families all across Montana and even to South Dakota. Guess what..... Daddy let me drive! Now don't panic......we were stopped in a construction zone so the car was not moving. I didn't care---it was fun as you can see!

Just for Grampa Joel

2009-07-13T16:32:00.001-06:00

Grampa..... I have the popcorn.....now all I need is you to share it with!

My First Trip to Minnesota!

2009-06-22T20:45:00.001-06:00

We recently made it home from our quick trip to Minnesota. Trystan's first of many to come. You will see that he got to meet some of his generation of cousins, Ethan and Cooper among many others. A weekend full of firsts, first boat ride, first cowboy hat, first 4-wheeler ride and the first time watching dad play golf on a Wii. He finally got to meet his great-grandma Betty who has been his prayer warrior for over a year now. She got lots of nap time with her little Montana cowboy. The time went too fast as it always does, but I'm sure grandma and grandpa won't be able to stay away for too long.

Me and my cousins Ethan and Cooper

Me, Mommy and Great-Grama Betty

Sleeping on Grampa with my pickle

My first boat ride

Grampa even let me drive!

My First 4-Wheeler ride

Check out my new cowboy hat from Grama Deb & Grampa Joel!

Learning how to "hoe down"!

Blue Montana Sky!

Almost forgot.......

2009-06-10T06:58:00.000-06:00

A moment caught by our photographer---is this a committed dad or what?? Puppy in pocket and a pacifier clip! Love it!

6 Month Photo Shoot!

2009-06-10T06:46:00.000-06:00

Trystan had his 6 month photo shoot a couple weeks ago, and we now have the pictures to prove it! I wish I had room to post them all, as they are all great! Of course, look who the main subject is :o) We LOVE our photographer, and she loves taking pics of Trystan, who has become quite famous in her studio. She took so many great shots of him with his dad. Of course when it was my turn, he was done! Oh well, Mommy gets to go first next time! Enjoy our sweet miracle boy!

Love my toes!

2009-05-24T21:10:00.000-06:00

Look at the 2 things I just discovered--my toes and my tongue!

2009-05-22T07:51:00.000-06:00

6 months old!

2009-05-20T21:37:00.000-06:00

Is it really possible that Trystan is 6 months old already? The first two months of his life felt like an eternity, as we prayed for him to get better so he could come home to Rocky Top, and the next 4 months flew right by! So many have told us that babies change so fast, and they are right! He seems to be changing before our eyes. Trystan is a very happy boy, just be sure that bottle is ready when he is hungry (a true DeWolf). He is very good at smiling, and every once in awhile we hear the cutest laugh there ever was, that comes from deep within his tummy! So cute! Occasionally we will hear a very high pitch girly squeal, in which you will hear his dad say in the deepest voice possible, "Lower your voice son!" He loves to be moving, which means we hold him and walk.....heaven help you if you want to sit and relax! He also loves to lay in his crib, kick his feet and wind up his arms. We really do have a little cowboy on our hands, as he has a severe case of rodeo arm (arm swings up and down as the bull riders do for those of you who do not know what rodeo arm is).
You can see below that we just put Trystan's highchair together, and he seems to like it...a lot. Just wait until he knows what happens when he sits in it! He did ask where the cheerios were that were supposed to be on his tray! We have his next Dr's appointment on June 2nd, where we will know where we stand on introducing food to him. The Dr's are being very cautious not to rush things with him, considering he was born 2 1/2 months early. Developmentally speaking, he is ahead of the game, which is great. They base everything on his actual due date, not the date he was born, which gets confusing at times! We are so anxious to hear what his weight gain is!

Happy 6 month Birthday Trystan! We can't wait to see what the next 6 will bring!

Best Birthday Ever!

2009-05-19T22:32:00.001-06:00

I had a great day today--so much to celebrate! I am constantly reminded of how God has so richly blessed my life each time I look into my son's eyes. I knew that becoming a mom was going to be very special, but I had no idea just how special!

The day was spent with my boys, and of course our dogs and puppies too! We worked on our garden, while enjoying the 85 degree weather! Alex cooked me a steak dinner that was to die for! Thank you Alex and Trystan for a wonderful day! I look forward to all that God has planned for us in the next year! I love you!

Clarification

2009-05-19T22:30:00.001-06:00

Many of you have asked why Alex is holding Trystan out from him in the baptism pics, so I thought we'd better let you know why. He is not wet, or stinky, as many of you may think or have thought. Alex was telling everyone that Trystan was to be the center of attention, and that is why he held him out :o)

Trystan's Baptism

2009-05-13T11:11:00.000-06:00

Trystan was baptized on Mother's Day! What a special way to spend my first Mother's Day! It was a very emotional, blessed day, full of reminders of how Trystan is truly a gift from God. A little boy who literally was so close to death, is here living a perfectly healthy life as a child of God! To know that God could have called Trystan home to Him, but instead is giving us this great opportunity to bring Trystan up in a loving Christian home is beyond comprehension. Many tears have been shed over our sweet boy, tears in fear for the unknown in the very first days and weeks of his arrival, and now happy, thankful tears for a healthy, happy boy! God is so Great, isn't he!

New pics with mom and dad!

2009-05-03T16:30:00.001-06:00

Some much requested video of me!

2009-05-02T10:34:00.000-06:00

More Bumbo pics!

2009-05-02T09:26:00.000-06:00

We've had a long, cold week which included snow, so I stayed inside where it was warm and played on my Bumbo. Can you see how much fun I have? Don't you just love my big navy blue eyes and my cute nose? Did you see the picture where I even got a kiss on my feet from Max, one of my Weimaraners? I can't wait until I get big and can play with him. Dad says Max likes to wrestle, which I have heard is fun for little boys AND big boys.

Have you heard I have a very exciting week coming up? I am going to be baptized on Mother's Day! Mom and Dad have been telling me all about Jesus. Did you know that He loves me so much and that He helped me to get better, as I was a very little, very sick boy when I was born? I can't wait to meet Him one day! I also will be having a lot of visitors this week. My Grama and Grampa Christenson are coming, my Uncle Dusty and Stef are coming, and my Grama Marie is coming! Grama Marie has not seen me since the day I flew to Denver and has never held me, so we are really looking forward to that! Uncle Dusty came to see me and hold me when I was in Denver, but that was a long time ago. He won't believe how big I am. And Stef has never met me, but I have heard she is so excited to come and love on me too!

Well, I gotta go. The sun is shining and Mom says we are going outside to see what my dad is up to. I am sure he is busy working on the dog kennels. I can't wait until I am big enough to help him!

Thanks for checking in on me!