Last Sunday of 2012

Our last Sunday of 2012....and our last Sunday here on O'ahu! Both countdowns are ticking away!! I've been on an emotional roller coaster the past few days, and hours!

I'm excited, nervous, anxious. Hawaii is my home and so far Mahie's home. She doesn't know what's going to hit her. I'm having constant flashbacks of this past Christmas in Apia. Hmmm....Heavenly Father really can be humorous in his planning, was I being prepared (in a way) ???? At least we have a little sense of what we need to pack. Thank you for end of the year sales, because we were able to buy a whole bunch of big clothes for the babies to grow into while there.

Bye Target, see you in a few!

 James is just excited and ready! We were laughing at how long he's been in Hawaii. He came back in 2006?? for just a visit and ended up not returning to New Zealand...going to school, working forever at PCC, finding ME, marriage & now kids! HE....IS.....READY AS CAN BE!! James has definitely been my reassurance and strength! I'm glad I have him. It will be our new 2013 adventure, yes AN ADVENTURE! While all the world will probably fall back into their same old ways, we have something fresh to experience. Yes, different & maybe challenging, but I have no doubt we will be strengthened as a family!

2011 Christmas in Samoa flashback!

I've heard it all. EVERYONE'S opinion's and reactions....so save it! I'm happy to hear that a lot of my friends may make plans to come visit....PLEASE COME (not if i don't know you!), its just us in a big ol' house & yard.

See....we ain't gonna be in no hut! Probably better than some of the houses here in Laie :)

We're even near the temple!!

Oh, & I'm taking my closet with me.....so don't ask or hint! I can rock my Steve Madden's or Jeffrey's anywhere, K?!

And no, we're not just kicking back on a hammock drinking from coconuts! We'll be busy running my in-law's successful family business & hoping to help expand it. Who knew my four semesters of Samoan at BYUH would came in handy (yeah like I remember!). It's not all that sad, since we're already planning for me and the babies to visit in April! (You know, to keep my sanity!) At least in Samoa I don't have an Alamoana or online shopping to tempt me, therefore I'll be returning on my visits with SAVINGS!!! Yeeyah, that's something to look forward to!

Anyways, gots some cleaning & packing to do.

p.s. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY SISTAH-FROM-ANOTHER-MISTAH "LANURRR"-nea Snow! 

We "the Aspinall's & Kaahanui's" LOVE YOU TO PIECES!!

Christmas Eve & Morning '12

This month has probably been the quickest to come and go. And it is definitely sad to see the end slipping by. If you didn't know, our little family of four have been making preparations to MOVE!

On January 4th we will be heading to none other than HOT, SWEATY.....SAMOA!! No, not "American Samoa".....Samoa, SAMOA! Next Friday we will be flying to Apia! 2013 will be a big change :)

Knowing that we were moving made this month even more special and family oriented. Although we had a million things hoping to do when the holidays rolled in, I can honestly say that we didn't get around to half....isn't that usually the case though? haha. I blame Pinterest!

Christmas Eve was very special, relaxing for us and exciting for Mahie. I had the babies bathed and bundled when James got home from work. We packed up the car and off we drove "looking for lights". Mahie pointed and screamed, "Liiiiiiiiiiiights!" at every house along the way. And then we arrived! My Mom has always loved going to "Christmas lane", street where every neighbor is known to go ALL OUT. Sadly the original block we go to wasn't that good.....well good, but not breathtaking-i-need-to-grab-my-camera awesome. We didn't even get out, but Santa came to the window with candy! So off we went to our NEW "Christmas Lane", and it was definitely breathtaking. Even James and I were blown away. Mahie loved Elmo!

Our family again did a Secret Santa gift exchange, which is better now that we're all adults. But no one really cared about who they got, because all the attention went to the babies. My parents were extremely happy to be able to shop for CHILDREN again! And since it's just Mahie who's old enough to play with toys, she got spoiled big time with her own christmas tree (which had ornaments safe to mess up so she wouldn't touch Grandma's "Pier 1" tree) loaded with gifts.

Helping Grandpa read the scriptures before opening presents!

"Her" tree

Santa got her EXACTLY what she's obsessed with at the moment: A baby doll set with a stroller, crib and carseat, the "Backpack" from Dora that doesn't stop talking, Lilo & Stitch dolls, clothes for Samoa, slippers, panties....and more things galore. (Thank you Grandma & Grandpa, Aunty Ida/Tiana, Aunty Kiana/Uncle Isaac, Aunty Annie, Aunty Lanea for the goodies)

Evan's 1st Christmas!

I even got EXACTLY what I wanted....so I kinda have an idea of who had my name :)
It's pretty hard shopping for James. When you ask him what he wants, he says nothing. The few materialistic things he own, are the only things he's interested in. He's easy to please, but that has never made it easy on my part. However, I usually pull through for birthdays and Christmas, and happy I was to get him a Ninja! He's been seriously planning to take on a healthier lifestyle (which we all should be), and so I thought a blender would be ideal! Not just a crappy one from Walmart, so after some research I saw that the basic Ninja model was on sale. I showed up at the store, and saw that the very upgraded model went on sale too, that did even more things! Plus I had a 20% coupon, AND it was the last one in store....I freeeeekin scored! I literally had the hugest smile at checkout. Not only can we blend and juice, but I'll be able to make Evan baby food in Samoa :)

Later that day, we left early to Les Miserables (with only Evan, lol). It was jam packed and very long, but we enjoyed it.

We enjoyed every moment of this holiday season, even if some days were spent cuddling on the couch or taking long drives, being with family and loved ones should always be the priority. And Grandma & Grandpa are soaking in every second of their Mahie and Evan! (No tears!!!.......yet)

Hope you all had a good one!
Love, Ashlyn, James, Mahie & Evan!

Booted from the Bed

The title is exactly what it is right now: one snoring husband and two chubby babies have taken over the bed. Lately I've felt it a waste of SPACE having a toddler bed & crib crammed into our room, when  NO ONE sleeps in it!! Speaking of said 'space wasters', it's been a battle putting those two little ones to sleep & KEEPING them THERE.

Mahie is pretty good taking naps and then later, sitting in her bed to watch a late movie or cartoon. But as soon as she senses her sleep coming on, she climbs down and sprints to our bed. Before you know it, she's climbing over one of us to sleep in the middle. James is usually too tired (or can't be bothered) to put her back on her own bed....BUT NOT ME.....I NEED MY SPACE! And that comes with a price, meaning I tuck her in, sit next to her on the ground and sing "I am a child of God" over and over again. I've since placed a little glow star on her bed rail, that lights up and projects little cartoons on the ceiling above, playing music. She loves it. It actually is very soothing to watch.

        Even I fall asleep watching this projection go round and around

Evan is slowly sleeping longer. I still have to wake up at least twice to nurse, but I guess my body has accustomed to the limited sleep. I can be soo tired and as soon as I shower, I'm wide awake in bed instagram-ing. (You know you do too!) I think Evan hates his crib. We have added so many things to make it more comfy, but we've concluded that he loves to be held or be next to someone. That is the only way we can get him into a deep sleep. If I put him in his crib, his eyeballs are wide open 2 seconds later. He is getting chunkier by the minute. After his bath tonight, I struggled getting his 0-3 months onesie on, is it really time to upgrade to 3 months and up??? Little buddha!

And James and I are doing what we (hopefully!!) do best: BEING PARENTS! We need a nap just like the kids to survive. We're looking forward to watching the following movies: The Guilt Trip, This is 40 and LES MISERABLES!!!!! (The Hobbit was good, but loooong)

Anyways we have a few things planned. I need to de-clutter and get rid of stuff, so there should be a sale soon posted online and a garage sale this weekend. Other than that, we're staying indoors to keep dry and praying no one catches a cold :)

RECAP HAPS

A little recap, as blogging hasn't been easy when two little monkeys are hungry, crying and tired at the SAME time :)

Earlier in November, Mahie went to her first Kahuku Football game, which was the OIA State Champs! She loved it and was so excited when I got her ready and even more excited when she saw the crowded stadium. It was also the first time I took Evan out without James (who I feel secure having at my side) and in my baby carrier. He did so well, so Moms get an Ergo! It was also a breeze nursing him, which I dreaded.

Thanksgiving came and went just as quickly. So quick, we didn't even take any pictures. My Dad's brother from Chicago flew in & brought my Grandpa down from Kapolei. And my Aunty Kim also drove down from Waimanalo. Grandpa B is getting old, it's crazy how fragile our bodies will turn with age. Nonetheless, I still love hearing him tell his family stories. Mahie seemed confused when she'd hear me call him Grandpa, haha. She also got a little confused when she saw my Uncle Kevin, since he looks similar to my Dad. She ran to him by accident a few times thinking it was her Grandpa :)

Then December hit! And we've tried to make a few adjustments to our daily schedule....which includes healthier meals & snacks for Mahie....playtime OUTSIDE for Mahie, since we've both been trying to catch up on naps whenever Evan knocks out......family prayer......and in the near future: potty training & toddler bed sleeping :) *As of now, Mahie has slept in her OWN bed for 3 days! Yay!

Some of our December Happs so far:

Me, the kids and my Family drove down for the Honolulu City Lights Christmas Lighting and parade. We've done this since I was little like Mahie & Evan. I still get excited thinking of the parade and the lights around downtown. As children, my Mom would get us ready, pack us up in our station wagon and we'd drive to town early to meet my Dad who worked near Iolani Palace at an architectural firm. Even though our parents didn't buy us any of those expensive glow lights and street food, we did have good seats right on the curb in those days...not so much now :) And I bet it was just as fun for Mahie this year. Double plus because "Grandpa Kent" bought malasadas :) We then made a stop at Likelike drive-thru for a late dinner.

Evan James Kaohi'ai was blessed by his wonderful Dad! I'm so grateful to be married to a worthy priesthood holder. It was a beautiful blessing, as all baby blessings are :) Ida even visited from Kailua and we had lunch in Kaneohe after. *My good friends Kaui & Toa also blessed their daughter Wailani the same day!

I got my 6 weeks postpartum clearance!!! I like how I couldn't wait to exercise, and now that I can, ugh NO MOTIVATION! Good thing I'm breastfeeding, that will at least buy me sometime hopefully :) I think I still have 20lbs to go, but it's more toning than poundage loss for me. Don't want to be lighter but still flabby, hello!

We've done a secret santa selection for the family, took Mahie to see Santa at the Mall, play in "fake bubble snow", taking turns baking yummy cakes, muffins and cookies....and going on long drives. It not only soothes Evan and puts Mahie to sleep, but it gives James and I time to ourselves in a way.

We also have 3 Pandora Christmas Playlists on replay: Mariah Carey (duh!), Rudolph the Rednose Reindeer, and of course The Carpentars........and randomly without James' approval, our secret 4th: Justin Beiber!! *Shout out to Lanea!

1 Month Baby Boy

Our little boy has made it past his 1 MONTH mark! It still feels like I JUST popped him out the other day. Maybe because I still look pregnant and I'm still struggling with 3am & 5am feedings....but also he's still so fragile, I can't wait until he rollie-pollie's up. Speaking of which, he EATS NONSTOP!


His last check up was on November 14th, in which he weighed in at 9lbs, 4oz. I'm pretty sure he has gained something since. This time around, I am almost exclusively breastfeeding..."almost" because sometimes when we're away from home, he'll get EXTRA hungry and we give him a Similac ready-to-feed bottle in addition to nursing him. Yes he's an eater! At home though, he has an endless access to Mom's refrigerator supply :)

I've gotten passed the "soreness" part, and enjoy breastfeeding, even though it is VERY tiring at times. I'm glad that I'm surrounded by friends who are great examples of mothers and who let me ask them a billion questions about breastfeeding tips. And now that I am comfortable with myself, I have no problem when Evan gets hungry out in public. It's funny how everyone will stare at you when your hungry baby is screaming his head off, but as soon as you put your nursing cover/blanket on, the ENTIRE mall avoids you. Haha. I try my best to be as discreet and conscious of those around me, but whatever. I guess only in America do people feel uncomfortable while everywhere else it is naturally accepted as normal. (I felt the same way before becoming a mom)

Slowly James and I are getting our sleep back. We take turns and even Mahie helps out by finding the nearest blanket and covering Evan. We have to keep any eye on that girl, because although she thinks she is helping by kissing, patting or hugging Evan when he cries....she's pretty rough. Cute, but rough! I've caught her a few times sticking her hands in the crib to calm Evan down by patting his arm, but when he doesn't stop crying, she'll get mad and pinch him!

Evan is still pretty fair. Compared to everyone on my side of the family, he is white. Compared to James' family, he could be close to Sharon haha. Maybe it's the German side. Or maybe he's just holding off until his first beach day. His smile is slowly coming through. He doesn't like to be left in his crib, but to be held while walking. He enjoys movement, which will put him to sleep in a second. Maybe it's because I walked a lot while pregnant. He loves car rides too.

And his name?

Evan: We just agreed on it, haha, for reals.

James: I originally was thinking of a Hawaiian middle name after I gave birth, but instead I wanted to name him after James, just incase we only have one boy. Plus, it sounds good too, haha. And no, you CAN'T call him Junior!

Kaohi'ai: "The searcher for food, the provider, will never go without sustenance" A family name given to all the boys, as a tradition passed down through my Grandma Ashlyn's side, her father and my Great-Granfather's Ka'onohi line. All of my brother's carry it, my boy cousins (the Casey's in Punalu'u for example), my Dad and my uncles, my Great-Grandpa and so on. Now my son will be tied to all that history, and like all the patriarchs before him, will provide for his own family.

We love you baby Evan =]

Queen Croup and her Cold Minions

Like my title? It's so true that it's ANNOYING. Finally we have all caught and passed on the cold bug. It began with Mahie, which sadly turned into a mild case of Croup. (That ugly deep seal-like cough) Good thing she caught it right when she had an appointment scheduled for shots, which we held off on.    Having Croup is miserable for both baby and parents, and it sounds scary/heartbreaking. Well, almost a week later she is fully recovered and back to her normal kolohe self. ONLY AFTER giving it to the rest of us...including baby Evan. We took him in late last night to the Kahuku E.R., just to make sure things were ok, especially his breathing. I swear, every time I've gone to that E.R., I've always been seen by an awesome doctor. Why can't they just open their own practice nearby?! Evan was breathing ok, and we needed to just let the cold pass. Very sad seeing him cough and sneeze. Mahie never got a cold this early on. I'm hoping the breastfeeding will help him out somehow, but all faith has been restored when James gave him a priesthood blessing last night.

We celebrated Hillary birthday on Sunday. All my siblings drove down from Kalihi, Hill's friend came over....and we even had visits from Ida & Tiana, and my friends.

Happy 22nd Birthday Hills!

Above is the yummy cake I made her. Bunt pans make things that much fancier, lol. I really need to go back to taking better quality pictures with my Canon. Iphones really are convenient for mommies ;)

It's funny how my little sister went from a shy Momma's girl, to now, where my Mom has to be the one to call her to see how she's doing. Currently she's living the town life scene & taking graphic design classes, pretty much she's living it up and barely comes down to "boring" Laie...but when she does, we love it. I actually love it when any of my siblings drive down to visit, even if it's just a few hours. Awww...we are all so grown! haha. *Side note, Mahie's toddler habits remind me more of Hillary at that age. Always pulls her hair out when I fix it. Would rather run around in a diaper only. Love the outdoors....I named her well after my sis.

I hear Evan crying....time to sign out!

2 Weeks Down

I am 2 weeks and 4 days postpartum, and doing/feeling great. Recovery has been really smooth, although I've gotten a few reminders to still take things slow. So here's a quick family update while both babies are sound asleep:

Mahalo: Chelsea Scanlan Photography

Me: I've almost gotten the hang of breastfeeding. I only breastfed Mahie for almost 3 months, after which my milk supply disappeared and Similac took over from there. However, looking back I realized that I was just doing a lot of things wrong, as in not breastfeeding & pumping often, giving in to the Similac Ready-to-feed bottles from the hospital because it was easier, basically I just wasn't putting in the work......AND IT SURE IS HARD WORK this time around. I mentioned to my friend that I didn't realize how tough breastfeeding is, so, good on all you nursing mommies out there who last the whole first year!! (My inspirational goal) I think what's been very important with my so far success this time around, is having a great support group = husband (especially those early morning feeds), mother, and breastfeeding PROFESSIONAL friends who are just a text message/Facebook comment away w/tips. And yes, I survived with having to nurse Evan a couple of times in public so far, including a time when Mahie thought she was being cute and tried to pull my nursing cover off! Weight and belly have dropped quicker than last pregnancy, yet I'm not sure whether to credit that to breastfeeding or my Belly Bandit.

James: He has officially been named the early morning feeder. His shift starts at midnight and ends at 6am, haha. So if Evan wakes up around that time, James has him all to himself. If I'm not too tired or feel sorry for him, I'll wake up and help out....but lately he's let me sleep in since I barely sleep during the day. He has planned twice to have just a day to himself to do whatever his man heart desires, but twice me and the babies have crashed his fun day. As in today, we just got back from the 007 Skyfall movie. Evan nursed and slept the entire movie, while Mahie lasted until the last 40 minutes. He really is a wonderful husband and picked me up a new Macbook plus took me to Sephora PLUS wanted to listen to Christmas music on the drive home after stopping at Starbucks :)

Cried to wear my Mom's fresh flower lei, only to shred it a minute later

Mahie: She is her own person now......kolohe!!! We have to bribe her to do things, make sure she is entertained constantly, scold her for running to her Grandpa when we say NO, force feed her healthy food when she wants sweets, chase her around the house to stop making a mess, tell her to be nice to Evan. Then on the flip side she melts our hearts. While at Alamoana she climbed on the wall next to the  fish pond and started to sing to them. Later at home she hugged Evan and again started to sing....mind you, it's only "bah, bahhhh, bahh". She is rough at home, but in public she is very sweet to other children. Lastly, we are glad she is finally getting over being sick with Croup. Worst experience ever!

Doctor said we needed to keep her hydrated, including Sponge Bob-sicles!

Evan: Eating for days....he tires me out! He loves to be held and will sleep longer in your arms rather in his crib. No pacifiers for this baby! (Which can be a pain at times) He is finally starting to fill out, more in his face. He still is very light skinned. Now that his features are starting to appear, he's looking more like James. Last week he had a photo shoot with Chelsea Scanlan, and we are so excited to view his pictures. Today he was added on to my WIC, so now we get 3x more yummy groceries because I'm breastfeeding him + Mahie. Tomorrow is his 2 week appointment, so it's time to hit the sack!!

Goodnight, sleep tight everyone!

All Natural Momma

 Evan's Birth Story

 (proofs done by the hospital)

Since the beginning, this second pregnancy has been a very different experience from Mahie's (my firstborn). When I found out I was expecting Evan, I had already been almost 4 months along. I was finishing my last semester at BYU-Hawaii, including a rigorous 6a.m. jogging class that I NEEDED to pass. I felt no side affects, which with Mahie, I had to take off from work the first few weeks, I threw up every morning, slept all day in between classes (I even fell asleep sitting under a  coconut tree waiting for class)...and found out I was pregnant at 8 weeks. I guess I anticipated it more with Mahie because James and I were newlyweds and I was pregnant for the FIRST time! However, this time around, my thinking was pretty laid back...and look what happened, I didn't even know I was pregnant, HELLO!

I'm glad that I found out late, because it made my months of pregnancy go by fast. I didn't really enjoy the 'pregnant' part of last time, because I came across so many health issues and bad experiences. I guess you could say it dampened my attitude towards pregnancy altogether, which YES is very selfish & dumb, so I was constantly thinking the worst this time around....and the worse never came! I should've enjoyed this pregnancy more, it was perfect.

I carried low from the beginning, which someone had said it was a sign I was having a boy. At 36 weeks I started to dilate, which surprised the Midwife at Castle, and thus we were advised to have our hospital bags packed in case baby came early. At 38 weeks, I dilated to a 4 and baby Evan was already positioned head down and super low. That was Monday, we were told to come back on Friday. However, until Friday I was strongly encouraged to exercise, eat spicy food, etc. to break my water. But I never did, HAHA. Ask James, my family....I just didn't "FEEL" like giving birth. Honestly, I feared labor! (Another bad experience from last time) And most importantly, I DREADED the recovery (WORST experience of my life).

At our 39weeks appointment, I was dilated to 5cm, baby's head was apparently RIGHT THERE, and I was already having 3-5minute contractions....basically I was in "silent" labor and didn't know it. Tina Doyle (Midwife) kept asking me if I could feel the pain, and I was like no. (Most women at 5cm are screaming for drugs) After monitoring me and speaking with the head of their department, they decided to call the Birth Center to prepare to admit me. I then told her I was hungry and wanted some Burger King, haha. She quietly let us go since I felt no pain, and so off James, Mahie & I went to eat.

At 11:30am I was admitted, around 12:30pm-ish they broke my water.....and I stunned the entire Birthing Center staff for the next 5 hours NOT FEELING ANY PAIN!! They couldn't believe it as I was at 7cm and still walking around the hospital talking to my Mom, sister & even playing with Mahie in my ugly patient's robe. Tina Doyle kept asking what my birth plan was (Drugs or no Drugs) and I kept saying I don't know. However, she strongly encouraged me to go natural. *The epidural didn't work on me last pregnancy, my spine/back area kept clotting, but I still felt the side affects after.

At around 5pm-ish....that's when the pain came full force! So back to my hospital room I went. I could still handle them, but it totally sucked. Just before 6pm they INTENSIFIED and my back hurt from laying on the hospital bed. Yup, I told James, "GET ME THE EPIDURAL! NOW!"....however, my Midwife sly persuaded me to hold off a little since I was "...almost there!" Yah right, almost there seemed like almost never! But, she won me over with the jacuzzi. The nurses helped me into the jacuzzi, and I was in heaven! *So all you future Mama's get in that bubbly warm water instead of lying on the hard bed.

Well, jacuzzi heaven lasted only 10 or 15 minutes (Castle doesn't do water births) and out they pulled me because I was ready to push. I still had a little cervix, which made pushing even harder! And you know it, I screamed for that epidural....but through tears, groans, screams....my little Evan popped out at 6:36pm, and I officially joined the ALL NATURAL Labor Club.

I still can't believe I went natural. Even though I didn't feel that intense pain until the last hour, that pain was REAL! It's also amazing how your body kicks into gear and knows exactly what to do. And the recovery? As soon as they cleaned me up and I fed Evan....I was literally up and about. TOTALLY the opposite of how crappy and drugged I felt with Mahie. I loved it & was surprised at my recovery from deciding to go Natural.

Evan is such a perfect baby. A little white baby so far...he is much lighter than all of us. Passed all his tests, loved skin to skin contact, latched well, didn't cry a lot through the first night. We are again blessed with another little spirit.

And Mahie? Sometimes she notices he's there, and sometimes she's too into watching Tangled or Princess in the Frog. One time he cried too loud and she climbed down from the bed, walked over and kissed the side of Evan's crib. But then pointed her finger and scolded him.

Now we are a family of 4!

A family of 4

....finally finding some time for a quick blogging update. If you didn't know, our little Evan is a week old, arriving last Friday, October 26th at 6:36 p.m. I'll include a separate post about his birth story, which was TOTALLY different than when I had Mahie. WAYYY DIFFERENT!

Evan James Kaohiai Aspinall

8lbs, 4.5oz, 21inches

Recovery has been great! Which I totally did not expect and actually dreaded. I was ready to go home the following morning, but was advised to stay by the hospital staff. Good thing we did because later that night came the tsunami warning, and we didn't have to evacuate Castle Hospital. I am so thankful for Heavenly Father watching over and inspiring us to do things because we had decided last minute to just have Mahie sleepover with us. Our little family was safe & together.....and relaxing in a.c. w/food. I'm also glad my parents and siblings were also safe.

We got home Sunday Afternoon. James and I couldn't believe we had TWO car seats in the back. Crazy. Then before we knew it Halloween was here! So glad I finished Mahie's pirate costume before I gave birth. She knew something out of the ordinary was going down that night and got very excited, it was cute. As soon as my Mom got home from work, Mahie followed her around to help set up outside for the trick-o-treaters. I'm surprised she cooperated with me that evening. Usually she is a grump around the evenings, but she woke up calmly from a nap and had a bath....and calmly stood there while I dressed her in her costume. When we were done, it looked like she was very proud of her pirate transformation and would run to my parents or anyone to show them her costume. Now that Evan is here, Mahie looks more like a little girl.

When she first got outside, she put her bucket down and started dancing to my Mom's Halloween music. It was hilarious and cute.

Eating her Grandma's candy while waiting to leave. Surprised she kept that patch on the entire night.

All I have are iphone photo's! She stayed out all night helping her Grandparents and just feeding off the excitement of seeing all the kids come. Evan and I stayed inside, I was kinda bummed that I didn't get to pass out candy, or to tag along as my Dad took Mahie trick-or-treating. But she had her night of fun & sweets, so thats all that matters. 

Every parent of a newborn should get a gold star after the first week. hahaha, I honestly hate the around the clock feeding schedule, but it's all for a sweet little baby! I have learned and re-learned a lot of things this week. How delicate a newborn is, breastfeeding, skin to skin contact, non-stop diaper changing, sleep when bab(ies) sleep, and especially being grateful for a supportive and loving husband who is a HUGE help!

I have also learned a lot from Mahie....that I constantly need to remind myself that she is still a baby too, and I need to be patient with her. That she needs just as much attention and cuddles. It sucks being on a 6-week postnatal recovery where you can't do any workouts or heavy lifting....especially when you put your newborn down to sleep in their crib and turn around to see your toddler holding out her arms, waiting for her turn to be picked up and rocked to sleep....it breaks my heart so I have to ask someone to place her in my arms when I sit, or help her climb up on the bed next to me. The doctor strongly warned me not to lift her after I clotted really bad at the hospital. Having another baby has made me love and appreciate Mahie even more.

I'm not going to lie, having two is tough so far. Hats off to my friends who have 2+ kids, and some who have to raise them on their own. James was gone majority of the day and usually someone in my family is also home....but today it was just me and the babies, and I struggled. Limited sleep, constant feedings, still trying to get nursing down, Mahie demanding attention....it was a lot, but somehow James came home and found all three of us napping. 

Anyways, this turned into a looooong post, but that's how things are! Oh & just in....Mahie just busted her lower lip from running around the house, again! The other day she fell off the bed from jumping. Accident prone!

Goodnight from the Zombie Aspinalls

anytime

Today I thought was almost the day, but somehow I knew it wasn't....."Mother's Intuition". So James and I drove out to our regular check up at 39 weeks. We were told last week that I may be getting induced today, depending on how far I had dilated since 2 weeks ago at 1cm. We packed our hospital bag, left Mahie home with my Dad w/her packed bag, and off to Castle we went. For some reason, I just knew today wasn't the BIG day, didn't feel it, hahaha. There were no emotions, nerves, etc....in fact I remembered a lot of things I had forgotten back at home.

Our check-up took almost an hour because of waiting, waiting. And then finally Tina (the midwife) checked me and was shocked I was only 3cm! However, after a little more examination her disappointment left as she mentioned, "The baby is RIGHT THERE! Basically it's just the water bag holding it up." So no inducing for us, they suggested I allow my body to go naturally which will for sure happen any time this week. If not, we are scheduled Friday morning to break my water. We were sent home with a LIST of recommendations to get baby movin'......but for some reason I don't feel like going into labor RIGHT NOW, I know selfish.....whatever happens, will happen!

Yesterday after church!

Definitely wasn't looking like this with Mahie. I may have been twice the size & for sure wouldn't have fit into this pre-pregnancy dress. (Obviously very stretchy!)

My pre-labor tradition: getting a pedi at the mall this past Saturday :)

Maybe next post will be from the hospital??!!

Kinda nervous now about the pains & recovery flashbacks....but excited that I'll be holding A NEW BABY!! What the heck!!

Baby Brother's Shower

Thank you to my Parents, Sister, Sister-in-law Ida & Tiana for such a fun "HALLOWEEN THEMED" baby shower for my son....and for all the friends and family who came out to eat, play & laugh. It was a really enjoyable evening. James and I appreciate all the gifts we were showered with, it has definitely been a big help :)

My "Thank You" to my guests was a candy bar: cupcakes w/skeleton bones sprinkles, chocolate licorice, candy corn + salty peanut mix, granola bars wrapped as mummy's, gumballs...and my fave, caramel apple lollipops!

*I suggest checking out the food section at Ross during the holidays....so many spices, candies, etc. are super cheap & one of a kind.

 

Doesn't this look REAL? & kinda gross....I never played this game before

Some of everyone who came!

All I can say is that baby shower gifts have truly stepped up with creativity! 

If you follow me on Instagram, you can see more detailed pictures of the cute Halloween decor :)

Mahalo again to everyone! It's always weird for me to be the center of attention...i love throwing parties for others, just hate it when its ME. I never know how to act. Good thing I was able to talk story with everyone who came out :)

Boys clothes.....such a transition!

Mahie is driving us nuts!

We've got a handful of updates that have occurred ONE after the OTHER here in the "Aspinall Grass Shack". Things have just been crazy and life never takes a step back to help you catch up...but we are surviving and doing good.

READ ON TO THE LONGEST UPDATE EVER!

First off- On October 5th, I worked my  LAST day at the Polynesian Cultural Center's Marketing Department. That was surreal in itself. Going from an everyday work schedule, nonstop phone calls, emails, work events, etc., etc., for a WHOLE year....to being able to sleep in, was weird. Hahaha, I'm not going to lie, I didn't know what to do with myself that first week off. And by the second day, I managed to irritate everyone in my home & was told I needed to develop a hobby or go back to work! I was told I was "Too bossy", however my reply was, "Well if I wasn't THIS MUCH pregnant I'd DO IT MYSELF!".

 My CAREER WOMAN IDOL: Larie Manutai & I

I've learned so soo much at my internship turned job. I feel more confident communicating through writing & speaking, especially in a more professional manner. I have no problem taking leads for projects and planning, keeping an eye for detail, being unafraid to basically get any task completed thoroughly. I've gotten more organized & maybe also a little more IMPATIENT at expecting others around me to do the same. I definitely have been trying to work on patience & charity. This past year has opened my eyes on what I'd like to accomplish as a career. I hope to gain more experience after baby boy is born, but right now Heavenly Father is telling me to kick back and enjoy the moment with my hubby and kids (which I'm struggling with a little?!). My body is telling me to rest & my mind is thinking about Grad School, more internships, etc. But that's a whole other blog post :)

 Red Velvet from Diamond Head Grill

My department threw me a party, Larie even drove down from her new Waikiki office. Good food as always. I will miss all the memories I made at that job and the people I've worked with and met. I mentioned to Larie that I didn't think anyone really knew me outside of our Marketing cubicle, until emails came in thanking and well wishing me on the baby. Some people who never smile said they enjoyed working with me, wow did I feel special, haha. This job totally stressed me out at times, but in the end I felt very sad as I clocked out for the last time :)

Second- NO MORE PACIFIERS aka "Dummies" "Bubba's" and what ever else it's nickname was. It was probably a week and a half ago that my parents lost Mahie's pacifier, so we decided PERFECT WE'LL START OPERATION NO PACIFIER! And that was a trip to hell! I'm serious, haha. Our daughter LOVES her pacifier, which is only a particular kind too. Over the last few months, we knew she started to always want it 24/7 and not just for sleeping. We planned on 'easing her in' at first, but since it was lost....we did it 'cold turkey' style. OMG so many tears and tantrums the first 3 days. We also probably sang EVERY LDS Primary song there is. During the day was ok, but nighttime was a headache. By the fourth day, she was good, and I guess forgot about it. We were VERY surprised. No one was allowed to say the "P" word. She did however, struggle to get used to putting herself to sleep when she was overtired, which we helped by singing, being in a quiet cool area and patting her back. We are happy for this milestone, but it seems that Mahie has gotten crazy active since. She is all over the place and independent. At this point in my pregnancy I just let her do whatever & I tell everyone that too. Lol. Sadly this has made James go nuts & he has probably shed some pounds chasing her everywhere.

Miss Kolohe getting caught pinching the family dog, Cooper

Third- Mahie's pacifier addiction has been replaced with a "Tangled Ever After" addiction. She can watch that friggin' movie OVER and OVER again. And since we only have the itunes version, she will cry and whine when she sees our laptop. We give in when we need to get things done around the house. But when we need to LEAVE the house and take her....boy is it a pain. She will cling onto the laptop for dear life, wiggle from our grip and run back to the laptop.....ANYTHING for Tangled, lol. We have since downloaded to all other Apple devices for easy travel.

Pretty much she hogs the laptop & no one can break her concentration

Fourth- No More Movie Theaters! Mahie at 18months has pushed us to our limits. She does not stay put at the movie theaters, even when we plan on a movie during her nap time. She stands up, waives and says HI to everyone behind us. Whines when we hold her firmly. Tries to push her stroller, climb the side stairs, walk around....and when James tried to hold her on the side aisle, she'll scream Mama! Mama!! Hooooly Moly! So we put our foot down, because lately we've been leaving the movies early....and I told James it feels like we're basically just donating to the theaters.

Alone at Laie Theaters watching Hotel Transylvania

Lastly- I am almost 38 weeks and I really feel like this baby will be here soon. I didn't feel this way with Mahie. I've actually started to dilate two weeks ago, now that my appointments are every week. I haven't been able to sleep, which is annoying. I stayed up until 4am one night watching documentaries on Netflix. I feel those lower cramping and pains even more now....but then I freak out and drink tons of water to get rid of them. My baby shower is this Tuesday, so my Mom says I have to keep him up there until then! Since I've recently ended work, I feel like I'm cramming to prepare for our son's arrival. I was ready months in advance with Mahie....so I hope I don't go into labor this week ( I had Mahie at 38 1/2 weeks) because I don't feel ready. And also, my head hasn't wrapped around the idea of LABOR!!!!!!!

Until the next blog post!

-Ashlyn, James, Mahie & Baby Brother!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY 

ISAAC

(far left in black)

We LOVE You!!