First Night Away

Over the weekend Benson experienced his first night away from home (the hospital doesn't count).  My parents have a place on Camano Island and we thought it would be the perfect opportunity to get lots of fresh air.  It was a great experience for all of us! He also met his cousin Dexter.  Dexter is Aunt Kassie's English Mastiff.

cousin dexter

KING 5 Children's HealthLink

Recently KING 5 interviewed me about my time with Benson in the NICU.  I was just informed that it will begin to air tomorrow.  Below is the information I received from the media department.  I haven't seen what will air.  I felt comfortable when they filmed me and Benson interacting and then the nerves set in when I was placed directly in front of the camera.  We'll see if that shows. :)

Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with the KING 5 reporter! I wanted to let you know that the Children’s HealthLink will air Tuesday.

 

HealthLinks air throughout one week and below are the times to look for the segment. They debut early Tuesday morning and repeat through Saturday according to schedule and on the channels below (All times are approximate and may be adjusted for breaking news). Please let me know if you have any questions.

 

Tuesday on KING 5 TV (early am):

• Tuesday in 5am news, close to 5:15am.
• Once later in Tuesday’s 7am news, close to 7:15am.
• (It also runs Tuesday on KONG sometime between 7am and 9am).

 

One other day TBD, KING 5 TV (Noon news hour):

After Tuesday morning, it will repeat once during KING 5’s 12pm news sometime during that hour, at producer's choice of day and airtime.

 

Friday on NWCN TV:

• At about 6:20am, with repeats at 6:50am, 7:20am and 7:50am.
• Then again at 10:20am, with repeats at 10:50am, 11:20am, 11:50am, 12:20pm, 12:50pm, 1:20pm and 1:50pm.

 

Saturday on KING 5 TV (early am):

• Once on Saturday in 8am morning news, sometime between 8:15-8:30am.

 

Online:

Look for the story online after it first airs Tuesday, on KING TV’s website. It may take a day before it posts online. See www.king5.com, click on the HealthLink tab at the top and scroll down the HealthLink page to see Children's HealthLink.

 

Eight Month Pictures

A few pictures as an eight month old.  

Mother's Day

Dear Benson,
As I celebrate my first Mother's Day I am overwhelmed with emotions.  You came into this world sooner and smaller than anyone expected.  Your progress makes me one proud momma. I am thrilled you have made it known you are here to stay.  You have already made a huge impact on so many lives.  The love you have brought to your dad and me is one that we will treasure forever.  Thank you for making EVERY day very special just by being in this world.  Nothing makes me happier than spending my days with you and your dad!

Dear Mom,
You have always been an excellent role model and a person I admire.  Once again you have blown me away with your love and patience.  These last eight months you were available whenever I needed you and were even there when I did not think I needed you.  You know your daughters in a way that no one else does and Kass and I love you for that quality.

My beautiful mother inside and out! And yes drinks in our hands is quite representative ;)

Dear Betty, 

Thank you for creating and raising Erik.  He is my perfect partner.  You are a loving grandmother to Benson and Hudson.  We are blessed to have you in our lives!  

I want to dearly thank ALL the women who have supported me over the last eight months! Your love and care helped me be a better mother to Benson.  

Love, Bre

firsts

Over the last two weeks Benson has experienced some "firsts."  Starting with something that meant a lot to Erik and me.  A group of friends participated in the March of Dimes walk in honor of Benson.  My Serene Lake family has been a wonderful support system throughout Benson's journey.  Having them walk for Benson was icing on the cake.

Erik and I left Benson at home so we could have a date night.  My mom, dad and sister all came over and enjoyed his company while we went out to dinner.  I think everyone had a great time.

Last but certaintly not least Benson met his cousin Hudson for the first time.  Erik's sister and her husband celebrated the birth of their child on 11/1/11.  Erik made a trip to Portland soon after and met his nephew.  However, Benson and I were never able to make a trip for obvious reasons.  We enjoyed having the boys meet for the first time in Edmonds.  Erik's parents made a surprise visit as well - this was a very special time to have the whole family together.

Future Best Friends

Today Benson celebrated his eighth month birthday!  Pictures to follow soon.  

A year ago today

A year ago today Erik and I announced to my mom, dad and sister that I was pregnant.  I wrote them cards thanking them for a loving and supportive childhood.  I just looked at those pictures and it brought back tears.  I found my mom's card worth noting.  I thanked her for the relationship she encouraged me to have with God.
Love, Bre