Baby Meador is a ...

GIRL!! Yes, we're having another girl. Wes came home unexpectedly from sea, so we were able to open the baby's envelope. (I had the US tech mark in a card whether the baby was a boy or girl because Wes couldn't be at the US.)

Now, the tech did say that she had a hard time telling the gender of the baby this time. We could still be having a boy, but it's pretty promising that it's a girl. At least, I kept all of Gwyn's clothes since she's been born. I only need to buy 0 to 6 months clothes in summer attire. Most of Gwyn's are wintery.

We haven't picked out names yet. In December, we are going camping (yes, at 7 months pregnant) and picking out the new baby's name. Once we figure it out, we'll let everyone know.

In three weeks, we will be moving again. We finally got a house in gov't housing on Ford Island. I like where we live now, but housing has air conditioning where I can close the windows and keep Hera from barking all the time, a gate with a guard 24 hours a day, and lots more room for all our junk and then some. I'm getting more excited every day. Unfortunately, Wes probably won't be here to help. Not his fault, his job pays the bills are allows me to stay home to raise the kids. Can't complain.

Well, that's all for now, I think. I hope everyone's having a great week so far. We look forward to anyone who wants to come for a visit, just after November and February is taken by the new little one. Best wishes to all. We love and miss you!!

Round Two

So, it has been a while since I have updated the blog. Once Wes arrived on July 23, it's been harder to post information. But, the biggest news is that we are expecting again, Feb 20th. Earlier this week, we had our 20 week ultrasound. Here are the pictures.

Right Foot

Nose and Lips (the right arm is covering the face and you can see the nose and lips in the center of the US picture)

Profile 1

Profile 2

Profile 3

Like with Gwyn, we had the US tech write in a card the gender of the baby. When Wes gets home from his sea trip, we will open it and tell everyone. The tech did say that it was a little harder to determine the gender, because the baby had his/her hands in their crotch. Nice.

Other good news is that we are moving again. We finally got a house in gov't housing on Ford Island. Due to whatever reasons, the navy is moving us again and I don't have to, all by myself - again. We are moving in the middle of November, which works out beautifully since our lease on the temporary place ends November 30th. Exciting times!!!!

Gwyn and I are doing great. I will post more pictures in a little while. She has been walking and trying to talk actual words. She turned 1 on Sept 2nd. She had a struggling time with her birthday. For whatever reason, she was sick and not feeling good at all. But, we all made it through it. Thanks to all the family that came for her birthday party.

Well, I'll post more later. I really wanted to get these pictures up so that Wes could see them. Love you all.

Guess Who's Almost Home

The navy finally released the news that the boat is arriving on July 23rd in the morning. Some of you know how exciting this is. There is going to be a huge celebration for the arrival with the Navy Band, the Hawaii Glee Club, and some cute little hula dancers (children).

Gwyn is doing great. She has been standing on her own, but not walking. She seems so proud of herself when she stands and looks at me. I wonder what she is thinking. Even though she isn't walking on her own, she likes to push around this little toy stroller I bought her. I can't wait for Wes to see her push it for a few steps and do a little dance. Her daddy is going to be so proud of her.

As for the car, the navigation is finally working. When we bought the car, it was a used car but from the dealership. They cleaned out the car, you know, before turning it over to us. Well, cleaning out the car must also include throwing away the manuals. We didn't have an owner's manual nor the one to the navigation. So, when I took the car to the dealership here, he asked me if I had reset the nav to Hawaii. Now, how would I know how to do that? It must be covered in the manual, which I don't have. Anyway, they fixed it for us. I can now drive around Oahu with less problems.

Me? I'm hanging in there. I get a few moments in the morning to myself, which gets dedicated to the dog. And, I get a few moments at night. By then, I am so tired and exhausted that nothing to the house gets done. I try to maintain decent living quarters. The only thing suffering right now is the laundry. Thank goodness I have found so many clothes that I haven't been able to wear in about two years ('07 summer was the last time - '08 summer I was greatly pregnant with Gwyn).

Keep reading for more news as the time approaches for Wes's arrival. Gwyn and I are really getting excited. Wednesday night, it will be very difficult to sleep.

What's Up

I know it's been a while since I posted any news on the blog. We have been busy as bees around here. I will try to sum it all up... hopefully I won't forget anything.

First, things haven't been going very well with the car. I ordered a new disk to include Hawaii maps on our Navigation. It took my a few extra days to get the disk because I was never home when they tried to deliver it. When I did get it, I put it in the car and... Voila! Just kidding. It didn't work. I apparently need a 2009 model Honda in order to have maps/diretions for Hawaii. I asked Wes if we could trade-in the pilot for a new one. No dice.

Next, I had to cancel the XM radio because there is no XM/Sirius in Hawaii. It took several phone calls to do such. The first person I talked with didn't believe me. The next person told me to buy a repeater. (No such device exists that will stretch the XM signal 2000 miles.) Finally, the last person said that I was farther than 200 miles from the West Coast, so therefore I won't have an XM signal within reach. Can we say "DUH"?

One good thing... I got a surprise phone call from Wes one morning. When I say morning, I mean at 4:45 am my time. I don't think he realized what time it was. For him, I don't mind. I didn't really care. I did wish that Gwyn was awake to make googly noises at him, but I didn't even think about trying to wake her up. BTW, Wes is doing great.

Another good, I am going to be inerviewed for a documentary on the USS Hawaii as a family member talking about my experience with the boat and our move to the island. I'm getting excited! I've never been on television (except once where I was making hand-made paper at the Institute for Paper Science and Technology in ATL). If I get copies, I will send it to whomever wants a copy.

As for Gwyn, she has been developing so fast and so much. The other day, she located the toilet and played in the bowl water. She also peed in the bath tub while I was washing her. She likes to use a red salad bowl as a hat. And, she is the most adorable when she sits on the floor and spins on her bottom only using her legs to spin her. I'm not sure how else to describe it.

As for me, I am hanging in there. With Gwyn waking up sometimes at night and Hera thinking 5:30am is wake-up time, I am losing sleep fast. I hate to, but I may have to start taking a nap during the day when Gwyn does. If there was only another way to clean the house, do laundry and take a shower....and sleep while she is napping. Any suggestions?

Anyway, I hope all of you had a great Fourth of July. We walked onto the beach and watched two different firework shows: the subase and downtown Waikiki. Lots of fun.

I wish I could stay up and write more. We love each and every one of you. Love hearing from you, too. Have a great week and good night!

Hera Has Finally Arrived

This afternoon, Hera made her way to Hawaii. My Dad took her to the airport in Atlanta this morning, which was about midnight my time. (This was the second trip to the airport. Continental Airlines was supposed to take her the day before. When Dad got her to the cargo area, the airline said that her crate was too big. This would have been nice to know before Dad drove her 2 1/2 hours to the airport, then 2 1/2 hours back home. AND, it's not like Dad and I both asked repeatedly if her crate would fit on the planes. So, we called Delta. Thank you for bringing her to Hawaii.)

I went to the airport to pick her up this afternoon. She had a quick lay-over in Salt Lake City. I was quite amazed that she did very well with the flights. I was also able to get her from the airport, not the Quarentine Facility. She passed all her tests and paperwork with flying colors. The airport people helped put her in the back of the Pilot. She fit!!

Now, we are all here minus Wes. His arrival will be a little later. It will be nice to finally be back together again as a family. Gwyn has adjusted nicely. Hera is barking at every little noise (since all the windows are open for the breeze and no air conditioning). She will settle down eventually, I hope.

We miss all of you. Wish you all a wonderful week and weekend. Please write. I miss knowing what's going on.

Our New Home, Continued

Gwyn Checking Out the Lanai

I want to post some pictures of our new place a few days ago, but I lost my connecting cord for my camera. I finally found one this afternoon while unpacking. Of course, during any move you realize that the house you just rented/bought isn't big enough for all your stuff. Mom and I have been trying to fit everything that used to fit in a 1900 sq foot home into a 1200 sq foot home. It's challenging.

I am sure many of you have heard that North Korea wants to launch a missle at Hawaii. I've been following the news on this, but not too closely. I don't think I want to know too much to wish I hadn't moved to Hawaii. What a fine time to move here!!!

It's getting late for me. Below are a few pictures of the house and it's surroundings. We would love to have anyone visit.

The Front of the House

A View of the Beach from the Lanai

(There is a row of houses between us and the beach.)

Our New Home

We finally get to move into our new home on Iroquois Point in Ewa Beach, HI. We have been without all our belongings since March 18th. Tomorrow will be three months to the day, June 18th. I am so excited.

I miss my bed, other furniture, my clothes, Gwyn's new high chair (which she has never been able to use until now), and so much more. There are some of you out there that know exactly how I am feeling right now. Some, not so much.

I can now say... the bed and breakfast is open for business.

Let us know when you want to come for a visit.........

Hawaii, Here We Are

We finally arrived in Hawaii on Tuesday the 9th. It was a long and gruelling trip with a 9 month old on a 9 1/2 hour flight. But, we made it. The hotel was, however, a nightmare in the beginning. The first room wasn't clean and had ants around the kitchen sink. The second room wasn't safe for Gwyn. The shower spout was all mangled and ragged. The transition piece from tile to carpet had screws sticking out. So, we settled in on our third room. It's nice, finally.

In two days, we picked up the car, found a temporary place to live, took care of Hera's trip over and went to the beach. The car was already here which made things so much easier. Now, all it needs is a bath. I am still working on that. Hera will hopefully be flying over on the 22nd. She has no idea what is about to happen to her.

Our temporary house. Well, I believe the community used to be government housing. We have a three bedroom house with a beautiful view of the beach. There is a fitness center, day care, preschool/elementary school, Nex mini-mart and gas station. It's not the most beautiful house in the world, but it puts a roof over our head and money in our pockets.

Below are a few pictures from around the island. There will be more to come.

Last Day In CONUS

In case you were wondering, CONUS stands for the CONtintental United States in government acronyms. Most of you all know that there are more acronyms than there are words in the english language - just kidding. It just feels that way sometimes in the military.

Well, Monday was Gwyn and my last day in Tennessee before heading to Hawaii. My other daugther, Hera the Great Dane, went to the groomers for a spa treatment. She was pampered and bathed. I know she doesn't appreciate the spa, but owners benefit the most from the better smell and beautiful, shiny coat. She looked wonderful!

Gwyn, Mom and I went shopping a little while Hera was being treated to luxury. I know we shouldn't have been buying more clothes. Lord knows, I have no more room in my luggage. My poor mom is using half a suitcase, while Gwyn and I have 5 and a half suitcases for this trip. I have maxed out two of the pieces and stuffed the other three to their brim. But still, I found a lovely pair of capris and a simple white skirt. Just what I needed, right?

After the shopping, we ate some lunch at home and then proceeded to finish the packing (which was started on Saturday). I kept finding more and more stuff all over the house. It's amazing how much you can spread out when you have been somewhere for three months. I know there are some things we could do without. However, I have been without all my belongings for the past three months with no end in sight as to when I will get it all back. How terrible, huh?

The best part about today was visiting with my Aunt Linda. Gwyn, by the way, is named Jane after my Aunt Linda. That's how special she is to me. Aunt Linda cooked a wonderful Southern meal that (as we say in the South) would make you slap your momma. I once again overate. And, where else can you get true southern sweet tea than at home. We had such a great time. I wish we could have stayed longer but we all needed to get home for showers/baths and sleep.

So, as you can tell, I am not sleeping. Right now, I am a little worked up over tomorrow's events. For those of you who know me, I am a planner. I have lists and reminders and so much going through my mind. I am not sure if I will go to sleep tonight. But, God will take care of everything. I am confident. Trust in the Lord, and He will provide.

For all of those we visited, we had such a wonderful time seeing you. For those of you we missed, I am truly sorry I couldn't meet with you. It breaks my heart that I didn't get to see you, and you didn't get to meet Gwyn. But, on the bright side, you can always come to Hawaii and see us. You are always welcome at our home (that is, once we get one).

We love you all! See you in Hawaii!!
Jen and Gwyn (and Wes will see you later)

Another Trip to FL (and SC)

Gwyn has become quite the American traveler. She has been to more states in her first 9 months of life than most people in their whole life. This trip, she was able to visit South Carolina. We spent the weekend with our friends in Charleston, whom we miss very much. Our friends from CT, the Randle family, have now moved there too, which makes the city even more desireable to visit.

Waterpark Fountain in Charleston

So, Gwyn and I spent a few days in Charleston and then headed on down to Jacksonville to spend some time with her cousin, Conner. I thought we had a couple of days to spend with them before we had to pick up Daddy. But, come Wednesday afternoon, Daddy called and said he was ready to go. My dad (Pops) packed up the car for us and away we went. We ate at a little place in Cocoa Beach for dinner with Wes before we drove back up Daytona Beach to stay for a couple of days. (Thanks Mom so much for allowing us to crash at your house while you are away!!) Thursday night, we had dinner with Uncle Kirk and Aunt Dawn. Thanks so much for making us dinner and doting on our daughter!!

Gwyn at Sea World

Since we have all been in Daytona, we have visited Sea World and Typhoon Lagoon. I believe we all had a wonderful time at the parks. Gwyn had a blast at both places. On Saturday night after a day at Typhoon Lagoon, we visited our Orlando friends, Mark, Michelle, Cole, Cameron, Dave and Marie. We haven't seen any of them for two years. It's amazing how much everyone changes over time.

Today, we went to church with all our friends at Holly Hill Church of Christ. We were bombarded with hellos, hugs and smiles from all our church family there. (Bombarding from friends and family is wonderful!!) Lunch was very special with Remie, Wiley, Sheila, Mason and Alena. I love seeing them all. I hope one day they can come and visit us in Hawaii.


Since March, Gwyn and I have been trying to visit with as many friends and family as possible. I hope we are able to see everyone, but at times we may miss some. Please forgive us if you were missed. It is definitely not intentional. We love you all. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers for our journey and move. Without you, our lives would not be as joyous as it is.

Gwyn at Typhoon Lagoon in Disneyworld

Long Time, No Type

I realized that I hadn't posted in a while, so I thought I should update you all on what's the latest. Gwyn and I have been staying at my parents' house since we returned from CT on the 30th. We were able to spend a quiet Mother's Day together on Sunday. Then, on Thursday we both (Grams and I) had a massage. It was wonderful!! Of course, I was sore for quite a while afterwards, but it was worth it.

The following Saturday, we had a nice, big party for Gwyn. This time my Dad's side of the family came and ate. It was wonderful to see all my aunts and uncles with their children and grandchildren. There were so many that I hadn't seen in so long. Everyone loved Gwyn! She was the belle of the ball.

Yesterday, Gwyn, Grams and I went to Atlanta to see my very good friend, Joanne Bradshaw. This was also the first time she had met Gwyn. Catching up on all the people I knew from church and my neighbors and finding out that many of the young people I knew were now married and had children was amazing. I wish we could have stayed longer to see more people, but it was only a day trip.

We are getting closer and closer to our flights to Hawaii. I am starting to survey all the stuff I have to take with me. It's amazing sometimes all the material things you collect without noticing. I have been trying to pare down some of our stuff, but then we will go to the consignment shop or Target and I will gain so much more. I try to remind myself that I can buy things over there. But, it's just so tempting when the prices are much cheaper here than there. I am sure none of you have ever had this problem.

Well, the hubby is out again floating through the water somewhere. We are hoping to see him soon for a visit before we all head over to Hawaii in separate ways. He's going by boat and I by plane. We miss him dearly but he has a job to do. I am proud of him for what he does and who he is. I could have never asked for a better husband than Wes.

We wish you all happy days this summer. As soon as we get a house established, the bed and breakfast will be open for business. Have a great weekend. We look forward to seeing some of you very soon (this weekend and next week)!!

To All the Mommies

Happy Mother's Day to all the new and seasoned mommies out there. This will be my first year as a new mommy. And, to make it extra special, I will be spending it with my mom and Gwyn (and my dad, too). Wes is unfortunately still in Ct.

Today we are having a little gathering with my mom's side of the family. Since we have been in CT for almost all of Gwyn's life, most of the family has not met her. So, we are throwing a little party for Gwyn. Next Saturday, we will be doing this all over again for my dad's side of the family. I'll try to post some pictures (if I remember to take any).

On a sad note, I am requesting prayers for a sailor's family and for the crew of the USS Hawaii. I can't say much. We had a sailor pass away unexpectedly yesterday morning. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and all the members on the boat. And yes, this is Wes's boat. (He is doing fine all of this.)

We hope all of you are doing well this weekend. If you have good weather, please enjoy it for us. It's raining and dreary here. Hopefully, the rain will subside and the sun will shine soon. We love you all and miss you.

Gwyn Visits Her First Boyfriend

Tuesday night, we all went to visit our friends, the Tanksleys. Really, Gwyn had to spend some time with her boyfriend, Rad, before flying off to Hawaii for a few years. Rad shared some of his toys with Gwyn. She checked out all his bling to make sure he was able to provide for her in the future. He had all the essentials a girl could ever need - a cute smile, great parents, and lots of stuff.

While Rad was sleeping off some dinner, Gwyn decided to excercise a little to keep up her girlish figure. She found the coffee table and did some pull-ups. Here is one of them to show off.

(I'm still trying to get a video to upload. I'll try again soon. Sorry!)

Unfortunately, Gwyn and Rad will be apart for quite a while. They will be busy growing up and becoming beautiful, little persons. (I look forward to watching Rad blossom into a Christian gentleman that his parents will teach him to be.)

Thursday, we had to say "goodbye" to Daddy. It's always disappointing to do such things, especially when it's Daddy. He was able to get off work in time to take us to the airport and help us with all our luggage. We all stood together in the line for security. We said our farewells and headed through the security. We miss him already.

I hope none of you ever have to spend weeks or even months from your loved ones. Before I was married, I never thought I would ever feel this way toward another person that I do toward Wes. And now, I cherish each moment I have with Wes because I know I may not have the time later. But I do know I will see him again soon. No matter how long I have to wait, we will always be together. I will always love him.

Daddy and Me

It's been about five weeks since Gwyn and Wes were together. She has definitely missed her daddy. She's been saying "da da da da" all the time. We arrived in CT on Thursday afternoon, and Wes was able to pick us up from the airport.

Since the weather has been very nice here (in the 80's most days), we all decided to go for a walk in downtown Mystic for one last time. The riverwalk was a great place to stroll and take in the salty air. Then, we headed to a restaurant on Holmes street that had some very good food. Gwyn even sat in her highchair and ate some dinner herself.

Sunday after church, we all headed to the park for a hike (a nap for Gwyn). There is a nice hiking trail at Bluff Point that is about 3 miles long. We hiked to the point and back, which I think was about 2.5 miles, but who knows. Gwyn rode/slept in her cool, red stroller. Afterwards, Gwyn wanted to take a walk in the Atlantic Ocean. She really likes to stand and walk.

Wes and I really missed our puppy when we were walking. Although, at the beginning of the hike, we met a beautiful Great Dane female. She was fawn and sweet. Then, on the return, we met a cute, little Great Dane puppy. He looked a lot like Zeus, for those of you who know him. There were so many dogs on the trail.

Thursday, Gwyn and I must travel back to Tennessee. I want to spend some time with my puppy, but I would also rather stay longer with Wes. I'm torn.

We hope all of you are having a great time wherever you are and the weather is as great as it can be. Hope to see more of you before we head to Hawaii.

Heading To Tennessee

Gywn and I have been traveling all over Florida this past week and a half. We started at my brother's house for a few days. Then, we moved on to Daytona Beach to spend some time with Wes's family. We were able to see several people at Holly Hill and enjoy a nice Easter Sunday lunch as a family. Afterwards, we headed on down to see Wes's dad and Dan, then on to Cape Coral. I know I have said all of this in previous posts. It's just been a whorl-wind of a trip for Gywn and I. I haven't been outside of Connecticut for a year and a half. So, it's been wonderful to travel and see friends and family.

We left Cape Coral on Saturday and drove up I-75 and Hwy 301. On the way, we stopped at a small-town Strawberry festival. They had some of the most amazing strawberries I have ever seen. I only bought a few to bring back with me. I wish I could take some to Wes, but they would never make the whole trip. I did buy Gwyn a small pearl bracelet, which she will wear a few years from now.

Tomorrow we will get in the car for one more trip. We are returning to Tennessee to relax, do laundry, play with Hera, and pack for the next trip. Gwyn and I are flying to see him this week. I know he must be very excited. When we were at Hope's house, I pointed out Wes's picture on the wall. She just went crazy looking at her daddy. She has been saying "da da da da da" so much. I am really looking forward to Wes hearing her for the first time. (She hasn't said it on the phone yet to him.)

Today has been a trying day for me, at least as an Ombudsman. I have a sailor that needs your prayers. I can't say why, but he and his family could really use some uplifting prayers. I have spent most of the day tending to their needs and hoping that some good news will come soon. I appreciate all the sailors on board who took time out of their day to donate money to the family. My heart goes out to this family. He has a long recovery ahead.

I don't want to leave on a sad note. So, I shall tell you that I am very proud of my daughter. Saturday night after we arrived at Aaron and Celia's house, she was lying on the floor. My mom looked over at her as she sat up all by herself. (Of course, she hasn't done it again with me watching; typical.) But, she is the light of my life. And, Wes is my rock. My world and my life is wonderful. I am sure this is the happiest I have ever been.

I wish you all a safe and happy week. We miss each and every one of you. Hopefully we will see you (or hear from you) all soon.

Love, Jen.

Guess Who's Standing!

We have finally hit a milestone! Take a look at Miss Gwyn standing in her "crib" at Uncle Mike and Aunt Hope's house. Like her crib she slept in at home in CT, this crib has the bed at about 8 to 10 inches from the top. While I was cleaning up my room a little, I turned around to look at Gwyn. She had grabbed the side rails of the crib and pulled herself up!!!




Of course she looks like she is doing a strange push-up in this picture. I didn't get the camera in time to catch the really good shot. I will keep snapping pictures like a proud parent should.

Traveling in the South

Gwyn and I have been making our rounds to see all the family and friends we can. After we returned from Hawaii, we headed down to Florida to see everyone. We first stopped at my brother's house in Jacksonville. Gwyn had a wonderful time visiting with her cousin Conner. He is two and fiesty! I will have to add a picture of them together later because neither wanted to have their picture taken together. Aunt Celia bought Gwyn the most beautiful Easter dress for church on Sunday. Gwyn looked absolutely adorable in it.

Next, we traveled down to Daytona Beach to visit Grandma. Luckily, Uncle Mike, Aunt Hope, Cousin Ethan, Uncle Kirk and Aunt Dawn were there also. Gwyn and I were able to go to church on Sunday with everyone and show off her gorgeous dress. And, little Ethan dressed up in his cute little Easter outfit (which was also provided by Aunt Celia). We had the two, cutest little ones in church. Of course, Gwyn fell asleep in the car on the way and then slept in my arms half-way through service. Below are Gwyn and Ethan in their Easter outfits.

Next, we drove to Grandpa's house to see him for awhile. This is the first time Grandpa has seen little Gwyn. She just loved her Grandpa and sat in his lap. Mr. Dan had a great time visiting with her, too. We didn't get to stay long because we had to drive on to Cape Coral where Uncle Mike and Aunt Hope live. Poor little Gwyn had a long car day, today.

Gwyn and I are still traveling. We are staying in FL for a short while longer. We're heading to Ct to see daddy very soon. I know Gwyn just misses her daddy. She has been saying "Da da da da da" all the time. I can't wait for him to hear her. Also, she has been doing a little walking. She will pull herself up when she holds my fingers. We will take a few steps everytime she tries. Gwyn isn't interested in crawling. She might be getting there, but I think she would rather just wait and walk. As soon as she starts, you will all know because I will post pictures.

We hope you are all doing well. Please feel free to post comments or send us an email anytime. We miss all our friends and family. We love you all and hope to see (most of) you soon.

No Green Beans for Me!

I have been so proud of Gwyn and her eating habits. So far, she has liked everything that I have put in front of her - at least until yesterday. At the grocery store, I thought I would continue to expand her foods to more vegetables. I bought her some green beans. Mommy loves them; daddy hates them.

Judging from the picture, can you tell if she likes them OR NOT? The first bite was okay. The second resulted in a little gagging. The third, she kept her mouth open, wanting me to scrape out all the green beans. "Me no like green beans." Like father, like daughter.

YUCK!!!

Back in the States

Jen and Gwyn in Hawaii

Well, we are actually back in the continental United States now. We arrived in Tennessee last night at about 10pm. We left Hawaii at about 5am eastern (11pm Hawaiian time). It was a very long trip home. Gwyn slept most of the first flight from Honolulu to Phoenix. The plane was packed full with no room to lay her down in the seat. That made sleeping for me alomst impossible. To add to the discomfort, the plane was an hour and a half late getting to Phoenix, where we almost missed our connection to Kansas City.

After arriving in Kansas City, I waited and waited for the stroller to be brought up to the gang way. The agent finally came up with no stroller. It never made it on the plane in Phoenix. US Airways was wonderful by providing a loaner stroller for Gwyn. From Kansas City, we went to Charlotte. I just want to say Thanks! to the people at the USO for being so wonderful. I am grateful for the USO who allowed us to hang out and let Gwyn play.

The last and final flight was from Charlotte to Chattanooga. I was so happy to get off that plane and see my parents waiting for us just outside security. I was also amazed when both our bags popped out at baggage claim. I just knew with the tight connection in Phoenix that neither would make it. AND, Wednesday morning, the stroller was FedEx-ed to the house.

I know I promised some pictures of us in Hawaii. So, here they are:

Gwyn on the plane to Honolulu

Gwyn at the Beach

Gwyn at the Pool

I hope you all enjoy the pictures. We love you all and miss you very much!!

Hawaii House Hunting

Gwyn and I have finally arrived in Hawaii, and it's beautiful here. We landed on the island of Oahu on Wednesday evening, exhausted and longing for sleep and food. After getting all our luggage and rental car, we headed out on the H1 to find the hotel. A few wrong turns later, we found the hotel and was checked in.

This was Gwyn's first plane ride. She amazed me. I was expencting her to have troubles with the altitude changes or time differences. What a trooper!! She slept some, played some, cooed at other passengers, and even nursed with no problems.

The moment I have been waiting for quite a while has finally arrived - our housing appointment. I was very impressed with how well the appointment went. We chose to be on the waiting list for one of the government housing subdivisions in Hawaii. I am very excited. I cannot wait until we get the house and know the address. (I will let everyone know our new address via email.)

Considering I am using a goverment terminal right now, I think I will keep it short. I want to post some pictures of Gwyn on the plane and in Hawaii. I may have to wait until I get home to do so. Everyone should start planning their second honeymoons/vacations in Hawai. The Meador's Bed and Breakfast will open shortly!! Get your name on the schedule soon.

We love you all!!!

Where are we now?

I have been meaning to post for a few days now, but life hasn't permitted computer time. The packers and movers have come in like a storm and taken away all our belongings. To put it simply, we are homeless now. Wes is living either in the barracks or on the boat. Gwyn and I have loaded up a small Uhaul and headed to Tennessee for some much needed time with the family. This Southern girl has longed for some Southern hospitality and charm that can only be found in the South.

It took us 12 hours to reach Virginia where my cousin, Lori, lives. I appreciate her allowing us to crash at her house and get some rest. Then, we drove another 13 hours to my parent's home in Cleveland, TN. It sure is nice to be back in the South. Gwyn had a nice trip in the car, with one exception. At about Bristol, TN, she had a HUGE blowout with her diaper. And when I say blowout, I mean diaper, clothes, car seat and all needed cleaning. Thank goodness there was a Walmart at the exit.

Gwyn is enjoying her time in Cleveland. She went to Sunday school for the first time at my home congregation. She handled it much better than I had expected - no separation anxiety. I am so proud of her. Hera, on the other hand, is having a difficult time with the transition. I wish she could settle down and enjoy her time here. Any suggestions for a dog that is too afraid to walk within a four-foot opening? She will eventually calm down and start acting more like herself.

Well, Gwyn and I will be heading to Hawaii on Wednesday to set up our housing. We will be there for five days, enjoying the beautiful, sunny weather. I can't wait to take her to the beach. Keep watching for some pictures of her in Hawaii. I will post as soon as I can.

After the storm...

Well, we are finally recovering from the snow storm this past Monday. I guess we needed a final "blow" of snow before we moved from here. There is nothing like 12 inches of snow to increase your desires for warmer weather, like Hawaii. I do know that Hera enjoys the "free ice" when she can. So, it was nice that she was able to play one last time in the snow before she starts basking in sun.

Gwyn turned six months old on Monday! I believe she is starting to cut some teeth. At least she is acting like it - irritable, drooling and chewing on everything. This young lady has been quite the trooper this week. She had some tests run at Yale (everything is fine and normal). Then, Tuesday she had her 6-mo checkup. (Since I forgot her shot record...) She had her 6-mo shots on Wednesday. I am so proud of her - she cried only a little when the nurse gave her the shots, but calmed down fast and gave us all a smile. That's my little girl.

Wes will be heading out soon. Don't know when, but that's the Navy. He has been working very hard lately (and so has all the guys on the boat). I know it will be nice to finally get out to sea for some rest and sense of normalcy. I will miss him, but we will reunite in beautiful Hawaii, hopefully with a furnished house and full refrigerator.

Anyway, our prayers are going out to Hope that she recovers from her surgery quickly. Congratulations to our wonderful friends Ethan and Tricky on the birth of their bouncing baby boy, Rad. We wish you all the wonderful, happy moments that parenthood brings.

Gwyn Doing Laundry

I just have to share these photos of Gwyn. When I was doing laundry, I put her in the basket to keep her in one place. I thought she was absolutely too cute for words, so I took her picture (actually several of them). She is really starting to love the camera. I hope you all enjoy these pictures as much as I do.

In the Beginning...

I have been trying the think of a great way to share pictures with family and friends without having everyone subscribe to some website. This idea came from my great and wonderful friend, Laurie. Thanks Laurie. I love your blogspot.

Believe it or not, we are only two weeks away from moving to Hawaii. Wes and I are very excited, but also overwhelmed at all the work and planning that needs to be done. For most of you, we (Gwyn and I) will be visiting you this spring and summer before we actually go to Hawaii permanently. We are looking forward to seeing all of you and spending time in wonderful Southern cities.

I hope to post often so you all know what's going on with us. Since this is my first attempt at anything like this, please cut me a little slack. I guess also be nice to me since I do have a 6-mo old. (She's actually sitting on my lap while I type this.)

Love you all and read you later.

Jen and Gwyn (oh, yes, and Wes)