Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Li'l Man or Li'l Mama's Boy?

While Katy attended a couple events for work last night, I was excited for some man time with Miles. I guess I was the only one...

After Miles and I got home from daycare, I started to feed him. Although he initially took the bottle, about a minute or so into it he all of a sudden burst into tears, looked at me and wailed something that sounded exactly like, "Ma! Ma!"

The initial shock of hearing my son speak, what were perhaps his first words, quickly eroded into slightly hurt feelings. Come on man; I know I'm a poor man's Ma! Ma!, but the bottle's full of breast milk and you know I can put on a hell of a puppet show...(or is the kid giving me courtesy giggles...hmm...)

"Miles," I said, and continued, "mama's not here, you're just hangin' with your papa..."

At that point, with a beet-red head, he turned away from me and shouted, "Ma! Ma!"

Monday, January 19, 2009

Miles turns 100

Miles is 100 (days old) today. That’s 14 weeks and two days… Or, about 3 ½ months… Or, about 2,400 hours and counting…


Before Parenting (BP), I always laughed at people who tracked the age of their children by weeks… Or, even worse, days…


Proud papa is guilty as charged.


Here are a couple recent shots:



Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Kyra: New Master of the Team Tepley Universe

I was upstairs with Miles on Sunday morning when a shrill scream came from the main level.

“Ahh! Eww…. Oh yuck…. Honey!!,” Katy shouted.

From past experience, I assumed there was some really gross bug scurrying across the kitchen floor. Deep down I relish opportunities like this, as they allow me to put on my big boy pants.

Feeling manly as I grabbed Miles to head downstairs and save the day, she continued, “Kyra is chasing a mouse! There is a big, ugly mouse in our house!”

A mouse! The mere thought sent shivers down my spine. I’m happy to swoop in and handle a bug of any size, but a mouse has fur, and a tail, and eyes… My big boy pants turned into a skirt as the horror of sequestering this rodent over took me. (On a side note, all fingers are crossed that this not the start of a terrible new trend.)

As I quivered in the corner trying desperately to find some semblance of manliness, Katy went on to say, “well, Kyra is hunting it down, maybe she’ll handle the situation for us…”

‘Oh yea,’ I thought to myself, ‘the cat that sleeps in hiding 25 hours* a day is going to do something noble…’ As I tried to grow a pair and finally entered the living room, where the mouse was last seen, I was shocked to see Kyra standing triumphantly by her “taken care of” hunt.

Kyra: 1; Mice: 0; Troy: -50,000,000

After I mustered up a clean-up effort, well-deserved congratulations were showered upon our new hero, Kyra.

After she patrolled the main floor one last time, she gave me a look that read, “Now that’s how you take care of business. I’ll be upstairs napping if you need me, Sally.”

*Kyra could not be found for a photograph


Wednesday, January 7, 2009

D-Day

Yesterday marked D-Day for Katy: The first day of daycare for Miles.

After looking long and hard for a good daycare provider at an affordable price, we finally found a center we’re currently enamored with merely six blocks from our house. Score.

Not only is it close, the center focuses on arts (hence the name Artisticrats), which is very cool.

My mind was at ease upon entering the place during our initial visit, as it’s practically a warm fuzzy factory.

But, as it goes for moms, as I’m beginning to discover, it wouldn’t matter if this place had a Mary Poppins per pupil. Katy, like every mom I've been talking to, dreaded this day for weeks.

I’m happy to report both Miles and mom made it through their first day apart. And, Katy only checked in on him once during the day….

Sunday, January 4, 2009

The days of our lives...

It’s Sunday morning and I’m up with Miles. He was fussy earlier, but only because he’s teething.

Yea, lucky for him (and us) he’s teething considerably early as he just turned three months old yesterday. Great… But after a feeding and some Tylenol he was pretty content so I put him down.

As Miles was catching some Z’s in his swing I was reading the paper (Ahh... a nice, quiet Sunday morning).


Eventually he gurgled, which caused me to interrupt the article I was immersed in. As I stared at him - and his ever growing body – while he stretched and cooed (super cute…), I had one of those moments of shock, Katy and I are pretty sure every first time parent has: Holy sh*t; that’s my kid; I’m a responsible parent; he’s going to be with us for a long time; he’s going to grow up, have opinions, ideas, thoughts, growing pains….

If only there was a Tylenol for all the growing pains - for him and us - to come….

Friday, December 26, 2008

Of Miles + Merriment...

The Saturday before Christmas, a snowstorm knocked out our plans to attend an out-of-town family party. While Miles’ introduction to more extended family unfortunately had to wait, it gave us a day together to share in some good old, classic American family, holiday fun.

Bundled up, we ventured downtown to Macy’s to introduce Miles to Santa. Because at 10 weeks old Katy and I knew he couldn’t wait to get placed into the lap of a big, wild white haired, funny red suit wearing stranger…

But, as Katy and I remembered how days like this turn Nicollet Mall into a life-sized holiday snow globe, I couldn’t help but feel Clark W. Griswold-like excited for some family fun.

The day didn’t disappoint, and I’m happy to report there were no Clark Griswold-like meltdowns from me, and more importantly, Miles.

With a special nod to Miles for helping to make the season more bright, it’s great to be a parent during the holidays.


Miles and Troy in line to see Santa (note Miles' excitement)


Miles first Christmas with Santa (note Miles' excitement)



Miles and Katy, lunchtime at Brit's (note Miles' excitement...)



Miles and Katy, Nicollet Mall turned winter wonderland



Saturday, December 13, 2008

Early New Year's Resolution...

It was a little after five on Wednesday when Katy called me at work on my cell.

“Hey hon, just wanted to check in to see when you think you’ll be home,” she asked innocently.

“Umm, I don’t know, it’s late work night tonight,” I state in a manner implying she obviously must of forgot, because it was obviously the late work night we talked about weeks ago.

“No; you said your late work night was the 12th.”

“Yea.”

“Today’s the 10th. I had your late work night listed, as we discussed, on the 12th in the calendar. Are you still not checking the calendar!?”

Busted. And then, as if on-cue, I hear Miles start to cry in the background.

I go on to plead imbecile as my obvious failures at simple communication come to light.

She continues, “remember, I had plans…needed you to be home…that’s why I update the calendar….”

I needed to work late; at that point in time there was nothing I could do. The crying in the background just kept getting louder.

Note to self: Keep up with the changing times. Check the damn calendar.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

A new era

This evening I posted an overdue update to the "About us" section.

Our family has changed from our original description:

Katy, Troy, Chloe, Kyra and Baby Monster

Troy: Husband, Twins fan, music lover and avid griller who typically smells nice. Katy: event planning genius, loving wife and excited soon-to-be Mom. Formerly a foodie before getting pregnant, she's now currently just a production vessel for Baby Monster. Chloe: Faithful dog, who is unsuspecting of the future and sudden demise from the high life as "only child." Kyra: cat that's around from time to time. Baby Monster: Ever growing, disruptive force who specializes in making Katy nauseous and sick.

My how you've grown...

Miles recently* had his four-week check-up. (*and by "recently," the neglectful poster means two weeks ago...)

We're happy to report Miles got an all systems go grade from the doc.

And, during his impressive four weeks of life review, we also learned he grew by a couple in both height and weight;* measuring in at 23.5-inches and 10.5-lbs.

*If Shaquille O'Neal grew at the same rate he'd go from 7'1" / 325 lbs. to 7'6" / 406 lbs. But then again, this comparison is odd and irrelevant.

Enjoy the pictures.

Miles, as seen in week one:




Miles, as seen weeks four - six:


Tuesday, November 11, 2008

A Month of Marvel

Some Mogwai-esque gurgling noises – which we’ve become very fond of – woke Katy and me up at 4 a.m. this morning. By the time I was able to wipe the sleep from my eyes, Katy and Miles had already assumed their feeding position. This was no different from what has become the norm. But, the realization of this norm is what struck me.

After all, it’s only been a month since what was once a great mystery burst on to the scene as the newest, and certainly most popular, member of the family.

Most of the time it’s still hard for me to believe we’re actually parents. But walking into the TV room to find my wife with things that look like suction cups attached to her you-know-whats to draw and store Lil Man’s food certainly helps to drive the point home. Nobody but a mom would spend a Friday night this way. Nobody but a dad would make up nonsensical songs to the beat of this machine as it rhythmically pumps away. Nobody but a newborn would stare in awe to such out of tune, idiotic foolishness.

Becoming a parent is an amazing experience. But believe the hype, as it changes life quite a bit. For instance, it took 30-plus years for me to utter a phrase like, “whoa, does someone have a big doo-doo poo-poo pants?” Within the last four weeks, I couldn’t tell you how many times I’ve said or heard such things from grown adults.

Never before have we been surrounded by so much love and joy from our friends and family… and occasional stranger at the grocery store.

The best part is that Miles is happy and healthy; and normally a splendor to be with. When he’s not eating or sleeping, he’s spent the good part of his first month meeting friends and family, and bonding with his mom and dad.

It appears his goal for next month is to master the art of lifting his head, as he’s already made great strides in this regard. Already, it makes us think: wow, how quickly he’s grown….

Sunday, November 9, 2008

Easy Like Sunday Morning


Another typical Sunday finds me reading the paper and drinking coffee with Miles by my side in his swing.

He likes SportsCenter.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Yes we can!



It's truly a historic time. A healthy and happy new son has given our family a new direction. And, we believe the election of Obama to President will bring a new, happy and healthy direction to our country.

We couldn't be more thrilled to be a part of such historic events.

Sunday, October 19, 2008

With one week…

…of life under his belt, we’re happy to report Miles is doing well.


Current likes:

Eating

Sleeping

Pooping

Visitors

Determining the perfect arch for maximum distance peeing during diaper changes


Current dislikes:

Bright lights

Wet wipes

Socks


Debatable:

When we (try to) sing him to sleep; particularly when it’s ‘80s hair metal

Mom and Dad are enjoying the incredible adjustment to parenthood.

Excellent. Things are going as planned...

Sunday, October 12, 2008

And all of sudden...

All,

It's my pleasure to humbly introduce to you the newest member of our family, Miles Patrick Tepley.

Born October 11, 2008 at 2:20 a.m, he entered the world as an 8 lb. 1 oz., 21.5" bundle of joy.







Monday, October 6, 2008

There is nothing to see here. Step away from the pregnant woman.

Katy's due date was last Friday, October 3. As you can imagine, she's showing a wee bit.

I feel for this woman. Her birthday was last Monday and we celebrated by enjoying take out at home and watching movies. Even though the take out was from our favorite, the 112 Eatery, dining out of plastic containers lacks that certain je ne se qua of going out to celebrate in a nice restaurant. But, according to my wife, sometimes being the spectacle in a room can get old and she just didn't want to deal with it.

I've witnessed this first hand on many occasions. The other weekend as we went for take-out (notice a theme here?), Katy decided to walk into the restaurant with me. Upon entering, jaws and forks dropped simultaneously. Big Foot and the Loch Ness Monster could have made it through the restaurant in a sleigh being pulled by unicorns and no one would've noticed as all eyes were glued to my very pregnant wife.

Don't get me wrong, as a man I've made more than my fair share of stupid statements around and toward pregnant women. But spending the past month with my wife makes me want to get a bullhorn and state the following as we walk in public together:
"Stop staring at the pregnant woman. There is nothing to see here, being pregnant is completely natural. Have no fear, a baby will not instantly sploosh out of her at any time, ruining your breakfast. Step away from the pregnant woman. Keep moving. There is nothing to see here. She is not a Buddha with hair; you may not touch her belly for good luck. And, to answer your question Captain Obvious, yes she is due any day now. Thank you. Move along. There is nothing to see here....."

For the love of your mom Lil' Man, any day now, please...

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

The summer of ’08 happened and all we got was a doughnut…

A cool chill woke me up as it breezed through our bedroom this morning. And then, as I stood without a jacket, I shivered for the first time in a long time as I waited for the train. It’s official. Summer is over and all Katy and I got to show for it was a doughnut.

Well technically, Katy had two doughnuts, but I’m only counting because I can’t believe summer passed with such little summertime fun.

Between work and preparation for Lil’ Man, Katy and I took a total of one extended weekend vacation together this summer. One. Not to mention, we spent it with her family at their annual camping trip in Devil’s Lake outside Wisconsin Dells.

Don’t get me wrong, nothing beats bonding by the campfire, but sleeping in a tent on an air mattress, surrounded by extended family does little to scratch the “we time” itch.

Then again, this summer was all worth it. The doughnuts at Paul Bunyan’s in the Dells can’t be beat. That, and we got to enjoy the thrill of preparing for what will be one of the newest arrivals around next year’s campfire circle.


Don’t worry Lil’ Man, there’ll be plenty of room around the fire and doughnuts to go around for many years to come - with hopefully some more summer fun mixed in too...


Thursday, September 25, 2008

Your call is important to Li'l' Man...

I recently called our phone company to change our service. I was on hold for what felt like forever.


My on-hold experience included some looping background music that was only interrupted by a reassuring voice that informed me, “(my) your call is important to us, one of our service representatives will be with you as soon as possible….”


This was followed by more of the same background music, interrupted by the same statement every minute or so; repeat: loop….


This is what the last month of my wife’s pregnancy has been like. Day after day of people saying, “so, when are you going to have that baby?" And, I’m not even the one with the prego belly.


If everyone, including myself, feels like this pregnancy thing is taking forever, I can't imagine what it's like for Katy.


This makes me think that mother nature truly does move in well-intentioned, mysterious ways.


We've been bursting at the seams (literally for my wife) for the answer at the other end of the line for what feels like forever. I think it's all part of a grand plan to ensure we'll be as excited and ready as we possibly can be for this bundle of big change and responsibility.


Moms, particularly mother nature, are smart. But, being on hold gets old after awhile…. Answer the call Li'l' Man! We're waiting... Oh yea, time to get the car seat installed I suppose.




Sunday, September 7, 2008

Good things in four

We celebrated our fourth wedding anniversary on Saturday. Our actual anniversary, Sept. 3, fell on Wednesday, but my wife was in the middle of overseeing one or three of the 12 RNC events she’s been planning for months.

We’ve both been busy with work and transforming the house this summer, but booking, planning, coordinating and executing 12 RNC events in four days has definitely been the giant elephant in the room.

Naturally, everything went well and in the past few days, my wife has finally got the rest she richly deserves.

In honor of our anniversary, Saturday was one of the first entire days we spent together just relaxing and having fun in what has felt like… an entire summer.

Even Lil’ Man decided to throw a party. Reports, sightings and tummy touch confirmations indicated that he danced around the womb almost all day long.

Summer is over; we’re down to the final four weeks of pregnancy and no more elephants. It’s nice to have time to enjoy the excitement and anticipation of what we hear is one of life’s biggest changes.



Saturday, August 16, 2008

Katy: Dutch for pretty, flowery rock

Going through Katy’s pregnancy together has given me a new level of respect and admiration for this woman. Having a front row seat to the miracle of birth and its toll on women is nothing short of truly amazing.

Not that I haven’t been a completely wonderful and supportive husband…. I just can’t refer to it as, ‘our pregnancy’. While it is something we are going through, referring to it as, ‘our pregnancy,’ just makes me feel like a poser.

Besides a pint of ice cream every other night or so, I have no idea what my cute transformer is going through. Particularly what her body is going through.

I’m sure she thinks the occasional backrubs and the extra trips to the grocery store are nice, but until I work a nine hour day on my feet with a five-pound, foot-long rib kicker in my belly, I’ve really got nothing.

But, for how rough the first trimester was, the second and third trimesters have treated her quite well - minus having a five-pound, foot-long rib kicker in her belly.


I can tell its getting a bit old for her, but she carries on with almost no complaints. She’s got the glowing pregnant woman look thing down and beyond needing a little more rest than usual, she’s been solid as a rock…I mean…a pretty, flowery rock* of course.

*From: Katy TepleySent: Friday, August 08, 2008 10:35 AM
To: briddle; B Riddle; Troy Tepley; Michael Riddle
Subject: 32 weeks

32 weeks
The baby is about 17 inches long and weighs about 4.5 lbs.
The baby's toenails and fingernails are completely formed.
The baby's lungs are continuing to mature but will not reach full maturity for several more weeks.
The baby's skeleton has completely formed, but his/her bones are very soft and pliable.
The baby has now developed sensitivity to temperature.
The baby will gain one third to one half of his/her birth weight during the next weeks.

From: Michael Riddle
Sent: Friday, August 08, 2008 11:02 AM
Subject: RE: 32 weeks

Cool!! Hope Mama’s hangin’ in there.

On Aug 8, 2008, at 11:05 AM, Tepley, Troy wrote:


She’s like a rock.
I mean, a very pretty, flowery kind of solid rock…

Me, on the other hand…

We recently told Katy's dad that we had our delivery room walk-through during our last birthing class. He looked at me with a grin and gave this sage advice: “get ready to feel like a screen door on a submarine.”


At first I was a little surprised, because I felt he usually has something more insightful to offer.

Not like I didn’t feel virtually useless already. Then I got it. Thanks Mike. It's nice to know I'm not the only father-to-be who's felt like lipstick on a pig.



Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Paradigm Shift

Pregnancy and the expected arrival of a baby has changed many things. Here's one recent example I found kind of funny:

The "Fire Alarm" in the office as it hung for the past three years:






The new Fire+ Alarm in the new nursery, aka, "old office":