The Grunwalds - Mike, Heidi, Ryan, Carter, and Delaney

Stationery card

2011-11-24T21:35:00.001-06:00

All The Happiness Christmas Card

Click here to browse our Christmas photo card designs.

View the entire collection of cards.

Delaney's Baptism

2011-08-28T15:09:00.004-05:00

Delaney got baptized on August, 21, 2011. Her Godparents are Terry Wooten and Kevin Huebert. Mike's parents were able to fly in and be the stand ins for the ceremony. It was such a special day for our baby girl!

Ryan turns 7!

2011-07-31T22:32:00.003-05:00

Our baby boy is now 7! Where has time gone? Ryan has lived in 5 states in his 7 years and has attended 6 schools. We are thankful to stay in California for 2 full school years.

We had a party for him in the backyard. The Outdoor Adventure Center rents out water slides and it was a huge hit! Our Mario fan had a Mario Kart birthday cake and loads of fun.

The Boys over the Last Year

2011-07-31T22:26:00.004-05:00

Ryan and Carter have grown so much over the last year. Carter speaks in sentences and is very stubborn. He is too smart for his own good. Ryan has finished 1st grade. He has a sweet heart and is very polite. We love our boys so much! Here are a few photos!

Welcome Delaney!

2011-07-30T19:08:00.004-05:00

Delaney Evelyn Grunwald was born o March 14, 2011. We are so happy to have her in our family. She is a swet baby and the boys love playing with her. Here are a few photos of her over the past 4 1/2 months.

It's Been a Long Time

2011-07-30T18:57:00.001-05:00

I am the world's worst blogger! I admist that. I think about the blog whenever I see that someone else has updated theirs. So, here I sit while my kids play nicely.

I need to catch you up on the last year. I posted when Mike took command in July 2010. Since then, we have move up the street to a 4 bedroom house on base. We have also welcomed Delaney into our family. Mike's parents have visited several times. My mom has come twice. My dad came right bfore Mike took command. My long-time friend, Glynn, came to see a concert and San Fran with me. My uncle and aunt from Austria came for a night. My sister just left today. We love visitors! I went to Vegas on a girl's weekend to see Celine Dion! Mike has been extremely busy with command. I keep myself occupied with all things kid related.

I will post some pictures of some of the last year, and of course- Delaney!!

Thanks for reading!
heidi

Hello Cali!

2010-11-16T15:57:00.007-06:00

Well, it has been a long time since I have posted. We have moved to California where Mike is a Squadron Commander. He is extremely busy, but he loves his job. Ryan stated First Grade. He loves school and he is doing great! Carter is 2, and every bit as terrible as a two year old can be! It is always interesting in our house!

The big news recently is that we are having a new baby next year! We are so excited to add a baby girl to our family!

Here are some recent photos for you to enjoy.

"Last"ing Impression

2010-05-30T12:35:00.004-05:00

Well, the time has come. For lasts. Two years in Texas has gone by quickly. I feel like I just got settled, and now it is time to move again. When we moved here, I was pregnant with Carter. Texas is his birth state. I digress.

Here are a list of our lasts...

We had Ryan's last birthday party in Texas at Morgan's Wonderland. It is a great Special Needs park where everyone can have fun. We rode the train and the carosel. We played in water. Ryan drove the truck around. It was so much fun to spend that time with friends.

We had his last soccer game. We lost. Big time. But it was so fun to watch the kids contiue to try their best. That is what we want for our kids when we sign them up for a sport. And they all did just that.

We went to church for the last time at Alamo Heights United Methodist Church (I know we are Catholic...) They had a great Sunday School for Ryan to enjoy and an age appropriate nursery where Carter got to explore. We loved the preacher and we loved the atmosphere. I believe we really grew there in the Lord.

The upcoming lasts-

We will visit with our friends, Nate and Sara, and their two boys, Nathan and Noah today. They have been friends of our since VA, so we know we will see them again in the future.

Ryan will play with his friend, Britt, for the last time tomorrow. Britt has helped bring and keep calmness and sanity to our home. He does Ryan's ABA and we met him at Treehouse when we fist moved here. When Treehouse closed in Dec, Britt started home therapy. We wonder if he and his family can move to California?

Ryan's last day of Kindergarten is Thursday. I will cry. There is no maybe about that. He has loved Stone Oak Elementary school and he really loves his teacher, Miss Boeck. This is another place where Ryan has grown so much. He loves having friends and learning. It is a great school. I am always amazed when you can physically see someone's heart. I feel that way about Miss Boeck.

We drive away on Sunday and again, I am amazed that the time has gone so quickly. I really have enjoyed Texas. Even though Mike was gone for about 1 out of the 2 years, I think he will miss it, too.

I saw a great bumper sticker the other day and it made me smile, "I was not born in Texas, but I got here as quickly as I could." I understand what that means. Maybe we will come back to live here one day.

As we change our chapter to the California Chapter of the Grunwalds, we hope you and your families are well. We hope to see you all soon!

Happiness

2010-03-25T09:13:00.008-05:00

Happiness is that first cup of coffee.

Happiness is having a healthy family.

Happiness is chocolate.

Happiness is getting a kite in the air without your child falling down.

Happiness is school days and a baby napping.

HAPPINESS is seeing your husband/daddy get off of his flight from Iraq safe and sound.

HAPPINESS is a family of four back together after almost 7 months.

We are so happy to have Mike home from his long deployment. I was crying before he got off of the plane. There were people waiting for flights crying right along with me! It was really great to see him!

Ryan was so excited to see him. He waved his American flag and Air Force flag for daddy. They have been best buds ever since. Carter kept telling him "bye, bye" for the first day. He is used to him now and also happy to see him.

The airport had volunteers waiting near baggage claim with a sign and flags. They thanked Mike for his service and they welcomed him home. My heart was full.

Happiness is paying off the van on Monday and buying a new car on Tuesday.

Since Mike returned, we are the proud new owners of a 2010 Honda Civic. It is a nice looking car and we are so excited about the gas mileage!

Happiness is losing your first tooth!!

On March 21, 2010, our 5 year old lost his first tooth! He was so proud. We cannot believe this milestone is here. When I first started talking about the tooth fairy, Ryan said he was going to "Put her in jail!" He did not understand why someone would come into his room and take his tooth. By the time she came, he was ok with the whole process. I think the fact that he got $5 helped! That amount will go down once more teeth come along, I am sure!

Enjoy!

Pictures of Mike

2010-02-14T17:04:00.003-06:00

Here are updated pictures of Mike from Iraq:

After a 10K. He recently ran a marathon by himself. That takes determination. Great job, Mike!

Mike with the General.

Thankfully, he will be home next month. We cannot wait!

Enjoy!

Where Has the Time Gone?

2010-02-14T15:41:00.012-06:00

One of my jobs since Mike has deployed is to update the blog. I have done it well, haven't I? I have done it as well as mow the lawn (I pay the neighbors) and clean the van (my father-in-law is doing that as I type.) So much has happened. In the words of my best friend, Terry, from her blog...crap.

Since I last updated we have had Halloween, Carter's first birthday, Thanksgiving and Christmas in Louisiana, my mom's visit, Carter's first steps, Ryan's success in soccer, Ryan's school closing and enrollment in a local elementary school, Mike's completion of a half and full marathon in Iraq, and my father-in-law's visit.

So, I will post some pictures, in no particular order, for you all to enjoy. These are until December. I will add more soon. I hope to do better in the months to come. I have a feeling Mike is passing the blogging torch to me.

Ryan played soccer for the YMCA in the fall. He will start again in the spring.

Ryan was not excited to take this picture with his brother.

Ryan with his teacher, Miss Anna at Treehouse Day School. She is a great teacher and we miss her!

Happy First Birthday, Carter!! We love you!!

The next three are at the Stone Oak Winter Festival.

Ryan with HEB Buddy.

Carter is not amused.Ryan is a pro with Santa. This was Carter's first picture with Santa. Let's just say that they did not get along.

Carter and Aunt Sharon.
A boy and his dog. Carter and Dusty.

Enjoy!

Woody's New Best Friend in Toy Story 3 is...Ryan!!

2009-09-30T16:42:00.003-05:00

Mike bought Woody for Ryan before he left. It is the one toy Ryan does not have to share with Carter. It is his special toy. He goes to school with us every day and sleeps with Ryan every night. This kid loves Woody!

I think they are both comfortable.

Ryan at 3 am. He had an infomercial blasting on the TV.

We are off to Florida for a quick trip. Woody is ready!

One morning before church.

Don't panic! Woody is safe in the van!

Love from Iraq

2009-09-30T16:22:00.014-05:00

We get to talk to Mike eveyday thanks to the Air Force and Skype. It is really neat to see Ryan talking to him and Carter saying "da da." Technology has improved a bit in the last 5 years since Mike was deployed.

I still have no idea what job Mike is doing right now. It is weird not talking to him about work. Anyway, he has shared a few photos with us. I hope you enjoy them!

Firing a British Sterling Maching Gun from WWII.

The view from his office. I guess they hit golf balls out there for fun.

The door going into his office with an AK-47 on the wall. That is Iraq normal...

The stairs in the office building, I think.The door going into the office.
The building he works in.His hooch, or CHU in Air Force terms.
And his bed.

Pictures While Daddy is Away

2009-09-23T19:16:00.012-05:00

I have tried to send Mike photos every day. I think there are 2 days so far I was unable to do so. Here are a few I have sent...enjoy!

Come home soon, daddy!

Vacationing in the Deserts of Iraq

2009-09-23T19:07:00.004-05:00

I think you all may know- Mike is deployed to Iraq. He left in August and will return in March. It has been 4 years since his last deployment. So, it was his time. I guess since he was gone while Ryan was a baby, Carter got the same treatment...

It is hard to explain to a 5 year old why daddy will be gone for so long. Ryan also has no concept of what 6 months means. Mike did a great job explaining it to him. He bought a map and drew a line from our town to Baghdad. Every week, we put a heart on the line. Eventually, we will be out of hearts and the biggest heart will return home. God speed, Mike!

Lt Col Mike Grunwald!

2009-09-23T18:53:00.007-05:00

Well, Mike is now a Lt Col! His ceremony was July 31, 2009. His mom, dad, sister, and niece were all here for the ceremony. We are so proud!

It's Been a Long Time!

2009-09-23T18:51:00.001-05:00

I know, I know...it has been a long time since we last blogged. I looked at the site today and saw that it was April. Basically, Mike gave up and I forgot. Well, I will catch up. I promise.

Get off of the ride, mommy!

2009-04-28T12:44:00.007-05:00

Canyon Ridge Carnival 2009

Ryan's "old" school was throwing a carnival, and everyone was invited. We went because Ryan still talks about Canyon Ridge all of the time, even though he now goes to Treehouse Day School. Mike stayed home with Carter. They missed all of the fun.

They had everything a kid could want: Rides, sugar, face painting, sugar, a gigantic inflatable slide, sugar... There were a lot of kids (I think all of Stone Oak was there), but he did great with all of the excitement.

Our first "ride" was the rock climbing wall. I think to myself- he climbs the rock wall at school all of the time. I know it is shorter and does not require a harness, but it's got to be the same. It isn't. He was a trooper and tried, but he did not get very far. I am proud of him for trying!

Our next stop was this twirly, spinning ride that was sure to make me sick, er, be fun. But, Ryan wanted to ride it. So, as the temperature was falling (and all of our children were in shorts) we stood in line for longer than I care to. We finally made it to the front. Ryan wants to go inside. Oh, no he isn't going to back out! He is riding this ride after I stood in this long line! We get on the ride. I snap a couple of pictures. Ryan looks at me with his sweet face and says, "Get off of the ride, mommy." What did he say? So, I pull myself off of this little ride and secretly say thanks so I will not have to embarrass myself by throwing up after it is over. Ryan sits there and allows complete strangers to ride with him. He was all smiles the whole time!

Enjoy!

Easter

2009-04-26T09:14:00.011-05:00

Here we are again-Mike is in Germany and then Virginia, so I am taking care of the blog...

Even after threatening that he would not come, a certain bunny stopped by and left baskets for two amazing boys!

We have never dyed Easter eggs. It was a hit! Ryan really enjoyed it this year. We talked about it for days before the big event!

The boys on Easter.

We have always gone to a big Easter egg hunt, but I it was too busy leading up to Easter. We had the big hunt in the back yard. This way, Ryan did not have to compete for eggs. That is always a good thing!

Opening the eggs...candy, coins, frogs, and lizards.

We hope you all had a blessed Easter!

Ryan Practicing his Handwriting

2009-04-16T16:36:00.005-05:00

It is my turn to blog again. Mike is out of town so often, that I better get used to it. Carter is on a schedule, so I can plan to take care of the blogging when I need to. Here I go...

For the longest time, we could not get Ryan to color. He would not use crayons. Pens. Markers. Pencils. Nothing. We now realize he had a hard time using them. He gets extra help at school, so he is getting better. Now that he has started, there is no stopping him. You will notice that he is practicing a lot now!

Good job, Ryan. You have mastered the letter "t"!!!

Catching up with the Grunwalds

2009-03-22T20:18:00.004-05:00

Now that we FINALLY have our new computer, we can start plugging away on pictures. If you want to keep us with us in more real time, GET ON FACEBOOK! Heidi and I post tons of stuff there and you can get a glimpse into our crazy lives!! So, without further ado...scroll down for pictures of our brood.

Carter loves his Exersaucer...he's still a little wobbly in it (towels fix that), but he's making strides.

One of the few pictures we were able to get of Ryan's swim lessons. Lifetime Fitness doesn't allow cameras in their gym...we got this in before we found out about said rule.

Mike and Ryan built an airport on a cold, rainy weekend. We're proud to say our airport was completed on time and under budget!

Two sweet little boys!

Ryan uses shaving cream to practice his letters or just make a mess!!

The boy needs to upgrade to an Air Force Academy bib!!

I couldn't have asked for two cuter little boys! They look great together!!

We're still here

2009-03-14T20:53:00.002-05:00

No, we haven't forgotten about the blog - just been a little busy lately...that and our computer's USB ports crapped the bed and we can't upload any pictures. We were up in Mass. last month and our Dell randomly shut down and when we powered it back up...got the blue screen of death. Once we get our new computer in the next week or so, we'll get back to work posting pictures and keeping you up to speed. If you want more updates...catch us on Facebook!

-- Mike and Heidi

Super Bowl Sunday

2009-02-01T20:40:00.003-06:00

OK...this is what you do when you have kids on a Super Bowl Sunday. You relax and take pictures. Carter recently discovered his thumbs and can't seem to get enough of them.

Our littlest boy is a cutie - just like his big brother! He can't stop smiling for the camera.

Ryan took on a green cupcake yesterday. You decide who won this little contest.

Carter also recently discovered that his feet were for more than just lying around...he's getting incredibly close to rolling over now. His world will never be the same!!

Here's our two sweet boys together...we certainly are blessed to have two cute and happy children!!

Pools, Bathtime and Bedtime

2009-01-25T21:20:00.003-06:00

We enrolled in Lifetime Fitness at the end of December (they have a pool...which Ryan loves). Here's his first time in the indoor pool...the kid had a blast...and incidentally slept REALLY well that night.

Water. Pools. Bathtubs. Ryan was enjoying his bubble bath and grinning up a storm.

The of a great day - clean, happy, and almost asleep!!

Carter had a couple 'blow outs' today...this was the end result of the first one. The child needed a bath - and had a blast doing so.

Carter absolutely loves being in his diaper...we could leave him like this all day and he would be happy as could be.

A smile to melt your heart

2008-12-28T20:41:00.002-06:00

Well, he's been smiling for about a week and change now...but we FINALLY got it on the camera tonight. We couldn't decide which ones we liked best, so here they all are!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-27T15:00:00.003-06:00

Christmas Eve - Ryan opened up his stocking and was thrilled with his Christmas Bell, dinosaurs, and other tyke-type items!

After some prodding, Heidi discovered Mike had put a new 'ornament' on the tree.

Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring...

Our Family Tree continues to grow!

Ryan was the big man on campus with his new Big Wheel!!

He loves his new dinosaur (Dad loves the fact that we can terrorize the dogs with it...)

Carter getting some tummy and floor time. The gym and mirror were Christmas gifts that he seems to love so far!!

We hope you had a safe and happy Christmas wherever you spent it!

Two Brothers...Two Sweet Boys

2008-12-21T20:36:00.005-06:00

Ryan loves to get around Carter, get close to him, and say "Two brothers...two sweet boys." It's so great to see that 6 weeks into their life-long adventure, Ryan is still getting along with his baby brother!!

Carter started socially smiling this past week - while we're desperately trying to catch him in the act, you get a sense of it with the next two pictures...we love to see him interact with us!

Another end to a great day (Ryan was trying to take a picture of Carter with his fake Cars Camera).

Run up to Christmas

2008-12-21T20:26:00.004-06:00

Our Cool Cat kid in his car (it's a beater)...he loves riding around and having many an adventure. He uses a red shoe string as his "seatbelt" (or rescue rope if the need arises) and will take you anywhere you want to go in his "bus".

Every year Stone Oak does a Winter Festival - Heidi, Ryan and Carter went while Mike was on another TDY...and Ryan thoroughly enjoyed the experience (it was 65 degrees outside). It's hard to imagine snow in San Antonio right now since we're supposed to be around 75 on Christmas Day, but our pictures give you a taste of what it COULD look like at the Winter Festival!

Both of Ryan's schools had Christmas parties before they dismissed for the break. The first picture was from his elementary school and was themed the "Night Before Christmas" (hence the PJs). After that, his church school put on a party that afternoon and made gingerbread cookies and danced the afternoon away (something Ryan truly loves!).

Silent Night

2008-11-29T22:03:00.003-06:00

We told Ryan we were setting up the tree this evening, and he couldn't stop talking about it all day long - he was so excited! He needed no explanation for the ornaments...the boxes were opened and he was on the case!

I honestly don't know where he gets this "hand in the pocket" thing...

Our little cheese...

The end of a long day - we have much to be thankful for. A wonderful 4-year old who never stops trying to help and a beautiful 3-week old...both are loved by all!

Grunwald Men

2008-11-29T21:58:00.002-06:00

This was a cameo shot of Carter and Ryan while we were trying to take their Christmas Card photo - they still like each other!!

Ryan and Dad were playing around in the kitchen having a great time!

A sweet moment in our room - Heidi and Carter were hanging out and Ryan came out of bed and we got this breat picture!

Carter in an outfit his Uncle Bryan and Aunt Julie got him.

Ryan absolutely loves to decorate his pirate ships with his flags...all fifteen of them!!

If you look carefully, you might spot our little pirate behind his ship.

Omi and Papa Grunwald Visit

2008-11-29T21:47:00.004-06:00

Omi and Papa showed up early Saturday morning and spent a week with us - a whole week for Ryan and Carter to wrap them around their little fingers...let's be real...it took less than 5 minutes for that to happen!!

Papa and Ryan played "hide and seek" in the closet...

Omi and Ryan played the day away in the kitchen...

Or spent time on the chair...

Being woken up by our 4-year old...

Playing "High Hoh Cherrios"

Making a young Jedi...

Or having the best seat in the house for the annual San Antonio Riverwalk Christmas Festival.

Anyway you slice it, they had a great visit!!

Those Grunwald Boys

2008-11-21T22:29:00.004-06:00

Two brothers. Four feet. Four hands. Two hearts. All our love.

Ryan was trying to teach Carter the finer points of Diego, but his little brother wasn't terribly interested...

Ryan has been such a great big brother to Carter. We're incredibly proud of the way he's handled this change in our family. He's eager to help (he doesn't mind throwing away the occasional used diaper...for now) and the first thing he wants to do when Daddy wakes him up in the morning is go kiss Carter and Mommy good morning.

This picture is priceless!! While we were taking these pictures, Ryan started holding Carter's hand...Carter turned towards Ryan...I prayed the camera held the focus! This one is now our background on our computer. Those cute Grunwald boys!!

Bath Time!!

2008-11-21T22:25:00.003-06:00

Well, it happened. Carter's first bath at home. Just like in the hospital, his enthusiasm for the event was south of angry and just north of absolutely ticked off. We do have to say, however, that his second bath last night went world's better...

Oh how I wish you could have heard the sounds that accompanied the picture below. Think angry. Think very, very angry.

Poor thing was now wet and cold. Tell Mom to stop taking pictures and have Dad dry me off!!

The calm after the storm (and one of the few times he'll accept a binkie...normally he wants nothing to do with them).

That cute little boy

2008-11-21T22:20:00.002-06:00

Babies have a way of changing your lives. Gone are the days of staying up until 10:30 or 11:00 at night -- we now LOVE being asleep by 9:00! Late night feedings, multiple diaper changes, slow to update the blog...

Carter had his two-week check up today and is doing great! Our little man has put on over a pound since he was born and everything is going as we would hope. He certainly is a cutie this one!!

Oma and her Grandsons

2008-11-16T20:28:00.003-06:00

Oma was so in love with her grandsons - she had a great time hanging out with the boys. We were grateful for the help when we had dueling doctor's appointments and being there for Ryan when we were in the hospital. We were sorry to see her go home yesterday (and she was too...she said more than once she missed having the little guy in her arm!!).

Here's Carter in his standard position for the past week - safely nestled in his Oma's arms. We had to strip Carter down for a few hours a day to get his billi count heading south (it is) and he checked out just fine during his 4-day appointment last week.

Ryan has done a fabulous job as a big brother - he always wants to help and hang out with his little brother. Here they are lying on the floor together (I thoroughly admit to somewhat staging these pictures).

The end of a good day. Well fed. Well clothed. Absolutely sacked out.

Carter's Fan Club, Inc.

2008-11-11T19:02:00.004-06:00

As the self-appointed Managing Director for the newly founded "Carter's Fan Club", I thought I'd share some of the notes we've received surrounding Carter's birth. Not surprisingly, most of these came from Mike's friends! I deleted the names to protect the guilty...

"Looks just like me. Seriously, he looks great. Congrats."

-- Sadly, this guy is an F-16 pilot...with three beautiful girls...no way he could have produced a boy cub after sitting behind one of the world's largest microwave ovens for hours at a time --

"Congratulations to you and the family!! Truly great news! Hope you have a favorite caffeinated beverage as I suspect sleep will be a distant memory for awhile, but soooo worth it!"

-- I actually have a Diet Mt Dew IV installed and running beautifully --

"Congrats!!!!!!! I am so glad to hear everything went well, and everyone seems happy about the new member of the family. The pictures of Ryan and Carter almost made me cry....what a joy to see them act so loving toward each other. Thanks for the pictures and please continue on the updates. When Heidi is feeling up to it put her in a picture waving to me."

-- Everyone was happy but the dogs...they just got kicked (and by that I mean moved) down a notch on the totem pole --

"Congrats on the boy. My father once told me anyone can hang a faucet...real men install indoor plumbing"

-- From a friend with three girls --

"Congrats!! Hearing of a new child coming into the world to friends always picks you up a bit. We pass along our sincerest heartfelt welcome to Carter. We are just now starting to sleep though the night with our daughter at 6.5 months...hey, it goes by quick"

-- SIX MONTHS?!?! Last night was crazy enough!! --

Mommy & Carter Come Home!!

2008-11-10T21:24:00.002-06:00

Well, after 4 long days in the hospital, Carter & Mommy were discharged and got to come home! Heidi is still having some lingering effects from the epidural, but is recovering nicely...and the drugs aren't too bad either!

But, before we left Wilford Hall, we had to get Carter all dressed up to come home. We brought a newborn outfit and it positively swallowed him up!

Then for the first time in MONTHS, I managed to get Heidi to pose for a picture. Here she is sharing a loving moment with our youngest son before we start the Great Escape.

Mike had the 'privilege' of getting Carter into his new car seat. You can tell he reacted well to it...

But, after a while he calmed down.

And was asleep by the time we put him in the van.

It was finally around 3:30 when we got home and our little angel slept for another hour...it was another day of changes in his world!

Ryan is still incredibly sweet to his baby brother. When we got home I made the comment that Carter was cold and that's why he was fussing. Ryan ran upstairs and brought down his blankets from his bed to share. Anyone who knows Ryan (and the things Ryan likes) can really appreciate what a BIG deal this really was. Ryan was kind enough to share until bedtime...then he needed them back to fall asleep. Sibling love does, in fact, have boundaries!!

Ryan is the best biggest brother ever! Carter is a lucky little guy...

Carter Meets the Family

2008-11-08T21:03:00.004-06:00

Our little Carter turned 1 day old today. He was a little more alert - and has already learned that if you're hungry...cry. If your diaper is dirty...cry. If you're ticked off...cry. He honestly doesn't cut loose very often...but when he does...oh man, do those little lungs power that voice!

Mike got the chance to spend a quiet minute with his new son before heading out to pick up Oma, Ryan and Glynn.
This is Ryan meeting his baby brother for the first time - Oma was nice enough to give him a front row seat. Ryan exceeded our wildest expectations and was so excited to see Carter...he was super sweet and incredibly gentle. Ryan immediately wanted to hold him...and we gave him the chance.

Here they are - two brothers. It was just the sweetest moment a parent could ask for.

As if on cue, Ryan gave his new baby brother a kiss. We know they'll have differences in the future, but what a great start to their lifelong relationship!

Oma holding her new grandson for the first time. Just like when Ryan was born, she couldn't stop smiling and cooing over the lad!

Not to be outdone, Ryan came over and gave his brother a quick pep talk about life.

Glynn couldn't possibly go home without seeing Carter at least once. We can't thank him enough for his help over the past few days. With one phone call Thursday evening, he drove all the way from Houston and go to our house at around 11:15 PM...good thing too since we left the house for the hospital an hour and fifteen minutes later! Glynn is truly a great friend to drop everything to help us make this incredible experience so much easier!

Daddy and his boys. What father couldn't be more proud of two great looking man cubs?

Carter Daniel Grunwald

2008-11-07T20:41:00.002-06:00

31 months of trying. 9 months in the making. 1 second to steal your heart. This morning at 11:46 AM we welcomed our second child into our lives. Carter joins his big brother, Ryan, as the only two boys on either side of the family. Until this morning, Heidi and I always wondered if we'd be able to share our love with another child - especially after 4 1/2 years with only Ryan in our lives. As soon as we saw Carter...we understood. You don't share your love between your children, your love grows to encompass them. We are truly blessed to have two beautiful boys in our family!

Carter had no problem exercising his tiny lungs during his first bath. It was priceless!

Then it was time to get warm under the lamps...

The end result...an incredibly beautiful little boy!

Happy Halloween!!

2008-11-01T20:24:00.002-05:00

Seeing Halloween through a child's eye is always a treat (literally). Ryan was so excited to be a pirate this year - he was running around yelling "Arrrghh" and was ready to hit the streets! Earlier in the day, his pre-school held a Halloween Party - at first Ryan thought it was a birthday party...but then realized it was more about Halloween than a birthday...for once, in a group photo, Ryan was one of the few kids actually looking at the camera (the fact that his Dad was taking the picture just MIGHT have had something to do with it!!)

Now the good part!! It was time to trick or treat in the neighborhood! We had to head out a little early because we were competing against bed time (but he did great!). He couldn't wait to get out the door and find some treats. He was incredibly good with his manners and saying "Trick or Treat"...we were very proud of him!

Sadly, our house is in what Mike likes to call the "Cliff Dwellings"...big houses...bigger hills. After an hour, Ryan was pooped - he sat down by the light pole, pushed his hat back...and I couldn't resist. He did so well...he even told his Daddy he was ready to go home!

And here was the haul from the night...not too shabby for a 4-year old!!

I couldn't resist this picture - we took it during his bath on Halloween Night. Ryan was in such a good mood...splashing and playing. He even hauled up his two plastic pumpkin light things and turned the big light off (right after this picture was taken) so he could see the shadows and splash some more...it was too cute!!!

October, Pumpkin Patches & Texas

2008-10-23T19:51:00.005-05:00

Last weekend we ventured out to good ole' Cibolo TX and the Ford Family Farm to hit a pumpkin patch. We didn't want to drive too far. Heidi didn't walk too far (she's pretty far along). We didn't want spend a lot. OK...we're cheap when it comes to pumpkin patches.

Ryan loved playing in the hay yard and trying to balance on the telephone pole. He only fell off once - and still managed to have a great time. Even better than that, he actually played with the other kids there - a little bit of progress every day!!

I love this one below - he was pretending that his little pumpkins were eyeglasses. It was too cute!!

Fire Station Part II and Part I

2008-10-12T14:36:00.021-05:00

First, I have to say that Mike is going to be very surprised that I figured out this blogging thing, and that I actually blogged. I guess with him out of town all of the time (he is currently in Las Vegas,) I might need to keep it up at times. So here it goes...Heidi's very first blog...

Ryan's preschool class went to the Fire Station today for Fire Safety month. The kids all seemed to have a good time until Firefighter John starting putting on all of the gear. The kids ran for cover to all of the mommies waiting. It is kind of menacing when you think about how they look in all of the gear. Thankfully, they are on our side when they are fighting a fire, or just helping in general.

You might think this is an actual firefighter, but it is not. After asking for a volunteer from the teachers and the mommies, Ryan's teacher, Mrs. Tonder, volunteered to get into the gear. I made sure to remind everyone that my belly would not fit at this time! She was a good sport, and I got a ton of pictures and a video to bribe, I mean, give to her.

You might be wondering why I went from Part II to Part I for the title. Well, here is the story of the morning...

Ryan and I got up at 5:30am, as usual. I got him dressed and then let the dogs go in the backyard. His school bus arrived around 6:30. When we walked out of the front door, a very strong odor of garlic slapped me in the face. I went back into the house to let the dogs back in. Dusty was wet and was shaking his head. I wondered what he got into, so I went into the backyard with a flashlight to investigate. I did not see anything. I brought Dusty upstairs and gave him a bath. he was acting strange, so then I started getting worried that he got into a gas leak. I put him back downstairs and I looked online for what a garlic smell might be. It did say potential gas leak, so then my head started spinning. I thought, "Who can I call this early?" Of course as I stated earlier, Mike is TDY. I called a neighbor and his phone went to voicemail. That is when I wanted to panic. I decided that if my house was going to blow up from a gas leak, I might need the fire department...and this is why there are 2 parts to the story. I called 911 and asked for the Fire Department. They sent a truck over to investigate. They got out of the truck and came over to me in the driveway. I told them I think I have a gas leak. They paused and one of them looked at me and informed me- that is not a leak- it is a skunk. A SKUNK??? Why did he have yellow on his fur? Oh, he got a direct hit! Where does the garlic smell come in? Well, with pregnancy and congestion, I guess that is how it smelled to me, and me alone. They were kind enough to go inside and open a window and put Dusty back in the back yard for me. Poor Dusty had to sleep in the backyard until the mobile pet washers (yes, they exist in some cities) came and bathed him (again) for me. He is now sulking. I know he thinks he must have been in big trouble to sleep outside all night long!

So, after all of the excitement died down, I asked one of the firefighters if they were from the Evans Road Fire Department. Why, yes, they were. Oh, I told him that my son's preschool would be there in the afternoon... He told me their shift ended at 9:00am. Thank God for small miracles and no more embarrassment.

Thank you San Antonio Fire Department for keeping our community safe from fires...and SKUNKS!

A Concert Starring M. Ryan Grunwald

2008-10-01T19:45:00.004-05:00

OK...so it's been a while...a long while. Between all the TDYs, doctor's appointments, school days, and long work days blogs tend to go by the wayside.

Ryan has taken to playing his instruments outside - drums, harmonica, saxophone, xylophone...whatever. We try to keep him from performing at 6 AM (but he has tried this once already). These pictures were from two weeks ago when he was playing his harmonica for the airplanes (we sit right under the approach for the airport).

School Days

2008-09-07T17:13:00.005-05:00

Ryan started school at the end of August. He goes to two schools here - and his day is busy! He goes to a local elementary school every day for 3 hours as part of a pre-school program. Mon, Weds, and Friday he goes to a local church for another program. Each is doing wonders for his ability to communicate (his sentence structure is world's away from where it was a few short weeks ago) and interact with other kids his age.

Below are a couple pictures from his first day at the elementary school. He seemed pretty excited at first - he had been to the school once and seemed to like it. Heidi took him there his first official day to get him settled, and he quickly went from cute to fed up with the concept of being there. It was tough going at first, but we (bribed him) gave him an incentive for being good, and he does great at school now - and is the proud owner of a Virginia flag (the boy LOVES flags and will work hard for them).

Our happy child at school!!

Ryan gets really excited in the morning waiting for the bus - and boy does it come early (6:30 AM)!! Some days he needs a little coaching to head out there, but we're working on it...read, we're bribing him with the Germany flag.

Hanging out in the Texas heat

2008-09-07T17:00:00.003-05:00

Wow - we thought Alabama was hot...hello Texas! It's been a while since we posted pictures, so we thought we'd give you a taste of what we've been up to during the long, hot summer.

Ryan, as always, wants to play outside - because of the weather, he only gets to play in the morning and late in the afternoon when the sun moves around and give some shade to the backyard. He loves playing on his playground set and is forever asking to "let the dogs out"...and then he proceeds to squeeze in a quick 5-minute playtime before Mom & Dad get the wiser!

When Mike came home from his DC TDY for the Labor Day Weekend (he called it his 52-hour furlough), we put Ryan in his booster seat. We moved him to the other side of the van - where the "big boys" sit - to make room for the infant car seat where he used to sit. I wished we had got pictures from his first day in the seat...this is from his second day. He absolutely loved his booster seat! He already knows how to unbuckle himself (and we have to move quick to catch him coming out of the van). Our little man is growing up so fast!

Below are a few random pictures of Ryan - hanging out on the couch (probably watching Diego) and then playing in his new tent we got from IKEA on Saturday. What a store!! Who knew the Swedes made such good stuff?!?! We went there to get a new chair, for what will be Carter's room, and ended up getting a few more things than we planned. Good thing pay day had come and gone or we would have caused a lot of damage!!

Heidi's family is doing great!

2008-09-04T17:56:00.003-05:00

Thanks to everyone that called and wrote to check up on Heidi's family - we really appreciate the support. They got drenched by over a foot of rain, but the only apparent damage the next day were tree limbs down in their yards. The lasting impact is that they've been without power since the storm blew through. The power company told them it could be as long as two weeks...but the Governer disagreed with that assessment. Hey - good news! As I'm typing, we just found out they got their power back on!! Living in the South w/out air conditioning is something less than comfortable - we're glad this storm is behind them.

Say a little prayer tonight

2008-08-31T15:08:00.007-05:00

Hey everyone - I finally got back from DC and was going to post pictures of Ryan and my trip, but I decided instead to ask everyone to say a prayer tonight for all of our family and friends that live along the Gulf Coast. Most of Heidi's family lives in Central Louisiana - and is right under where they project Hurricane Gustav to pass on Monday/Tuesday...and still be a strong Category I storm. Our thoughts and prayers will be with them. If need be, we're going to head out - after I get back from my second trip to DC on Thurs - and help out anyway we can with Heidi's family.

Observations on our Nation's Capitol

2008-08-10T20:09:00.003-05:00

I've been in DC for almost a week now and it's been a great experience - I've had the chance to see old friends again (some I haven't seen since 2002) and tour just a little bit of our great nation's capitol. Today I got out to the National Air and Space Museum annex near Dulles Airport - it's listed as a free museum (it is part of the Smithsonian) but the $12 parking fee reminded me of that FreeCreditReport.com commercial..."Free museum admission implies enrollment in our daily parking plan..." I digress. The museum was spectacular - I spent about 3 hours there walking around and gaping at all the exhibits. The one thing I was struck by was just how SMALL the Space Shuttle really is...I guess I always thought it was bigger than it really was...must be the camera angles they use in space...definitely the angles.

Last week, I was walking home from the Metro Station to my hotel (after a grueling day in the Pentagon) and was amused to see a couple 5 or 6 Greenpeace activists on a corner, passing out flyers, and decrying America's sins against the environment. Oddly enough, they all turned away from me when I walked by them and they didn't offer me a flyer or an enrollment application. The nerve. The next day I walked by the same area, and you guessed it...more do gooders trying to do good things. This time the issue was our banking system and how they were raising interest rates to bankrupt our society. Interestingly enough, it was the same group of people from the day before. Different Day. Different Issue. Same People. The idealism of youth...changing the world one street corner at a time. I wonder what they'll protest on Monday...too bad I changed hotels this weekend.

Deep in the Rainforest of...San Antonio?!?!

2008-08-03T21:07:00.006-05:00

Tonight we all went down to the River Walk and ate at the Rainforest Cafe - the food wasn't terribly different than what you'd find at Outback...but it really wasn't about the food (for the grown-ups at least) but more about the location. Ryan is really into Diego lately, and that entails rainforests...could it get any better?!?! Our food was good and it was a plus that the kids' menu items are cheap...Ryan was too busy looking at everything going on and not so much on his meal. The fact that we also got him a giant icee in the souvenir cup MAY have had something to do with his lack of appetite for the more solid culinary offerings tonight...just maybe...

It was hard to get Ryan to turn around to take this picture. He loves waterfalls, fountains, and rainbows. This had all three.

Ryan loved the entrance area -- snakes on the ceiling, a crocodile, and a macaw were all there for him to gaze at. The Mommy Macaw is a character on Diego, so he latched onto that real quick.

I was amazed I could get a good picture of him here. He wanted NOTHING to do with the Tiger (up close at least). In his defense, it did look a little scary...

It was a good experience. Every 30 minutes a 'thunderstorm' happens and all the robotic animals go crazy. The kids love it! Every 10 or so minutes each animal comes to life - and can distract your kids from eating...but hey...isn't that what this whole thing is about...the experience. Ryan already wants to go back, so we know we have a winner here!!

Afterwards we walked along the River Walk for a few minutes and I can already see another trip down there to go on the boats...Ryan was excited about them and I think he just might enjoy it.

The Wit and Witticism of Ryan Grunwald

2008-08-03T10:54:00.002-05:00

It's official. The child knows how to manipulate situations to his advantage. Yesterday, Heidi and Ryan were out in the van while Mike was inside Home Depot. Ryan and Heidi had a conversation that went something like this:

R: "Mommy, my tummy hurts. I have to throw up in the toilet."
H: "Do you have to throw up now?"
R: "Yes."

-- Heidi put Ryan outside the car and told him he'd have to puke there. He stood there for a minute and told her he didn't have to throw up anymore. Heidi put him back in the car and put his seat belt on. --

R: "Mommy, I want to put my coins in my pocket."
H: "Ryan, you're in your seat and I'm not unbuckling you just so you can put your coins in your pocket."

-- A 30 second pause ensued --

R: "Mommy, my tummy hurts. I need to throw up."
H: "OK, baby, I'll get you out."

-- Heidi takes him out of the van and puts him on the ground --

R: "My tummy feels better. I put my coins in my pocket." (Said with an impish grin on his face)

Two Little Feet

2008-07-30T20:46:00.004-05:00

Heidi told Ryan that she was going to the doctor yesterday to have a check-up for the baby. Ryan got really excited and started saying, "The doctor is going to help get Carter out!!". Heidi had to explain to him that we were only having pictures taken and he seemed to accept that...although he is SO excited about being a big brother and meeting his baby brother. We can only hope (and pray) that his excitement continues after we bring Carter into the house and Ryan's 4 1/2 year reign as sole child comes to an end...

The ultrasound went great - Carter's size and organs are right on track. The tech was able to verify (easily) that he is, in fact, still a boy. Good thing since we've started to buy clothes for the little man.

Below is a picture of his feet. During the ultrasound we found out that Carter is head down and likes to fully stretch out...which explains why Heidi sometimes feels like a foot is sticking into her rib cage...

This one you have to use your imagination just a little bit. Carter is facing directly into the camera - and almost looks like he has a small grin on his face. The small blob under his chin is his hand. His belly is on the left side of the image.

I Have the Coolest Job in the World

2008-07-30T20:18:00.014-05:00

I have the coolest job in the world - and I don't mean what I do for the Air Force. Being a Dad is quite possibly the best, hardest, and coolest job. I love it when I come home and Ryan screams "Daaaaadddddyyyyyy" and comes running at me to give me a hug and immediately wants to play or follow me around the house. On the weekends, after he gets dressed, he wants to put "water on" his belly - he saw me putting cologne on one day and thinks that what every boy is supposed to do. He'll run into the bathroom, slide to a stop, grin and say, "Daddy I'm dressed, I need water on my belly!!"

Today we went to the pediatrician at Wilford Hall and after the doctor was done examining Ryan, he turned to her, patted her on the shoulder and said, "Good job doctor!" Apparently he thought highly of her! The doctor commented they rarely get positive feedback from patients...and especially not from 4 year olds!

Last night, we were reading books and I was lying on the floor and Ryan sidled up right next to me and we managed to get through (almost) two books before general mayhem ensued. He's trying so hard to be a big kid - and we absolutely love these moments in life.

Bailey's Bad Day

2008-07-27T13:20:00.010-05:00

Our poor Dachshund Bailey had a rough Saturday (and so did our pocketbook). We came home from running errands and heard Bailey crying - it sounded painful and pitiful. He couldn't move without yelping (loudly) and was obviously in a lot of pain. We knew Dachshunds have a hard time with their backs, and our house in the "Cliff Dwellings" has a LOT of stairs. So, after watching him for a bit it was obvious he needed help and couldn't wait until Monday. One trip to the Emergency Vet, and $372 later, Bailey was diagnosed with a pinched nerve and put on "crate rest" for the next 3-4 weeks.

3-4 weeks of having food and water brought to his hotel room. 3-4 weeks of being carried everywhere he needs to go. 3-4 weeks of limited walking. 3-4 weeks of non-diet food to help him heal faster. No more walking on stairs. No more jumping on furniture. No more long walks...I actually think this is EXACTLY what he wanted anyway...he could have just told us and saved us money and Heidi a lot of emotional distress!! Heidi has had Bailey since he was 4-weeks old (he turns 11 in Nov) and he is like a member of the family (a whining, begging member) so I didn't have a whole lot of options open to me!

Doesn't he look just pitiful?!?!

If there was one good thing to come out of this whole ordeal, it was that Ryan finally showed empathy. Ryan kept saying "Bailey's all done with the vet!!!" - that's his way of expressing his unhappiness about something about to happen. He tried so hard to comfort Heidi - even tried to wipe her tears away. He kept telling her it would be okay (he was right) and tried to "kiss Bailey's back" to make it better. He cried like the best of them when I took Bailey to the vet - and was absolutely thrilled when I brought him back home that evening. He really was a sweetheart though all of it.

Happy Times in San Antonio

2008-07-27T13:10:00.008-05:00

I swear we have one of the sweetest kids on the planet! Our boy loves to snuggle, tickle, smile, laugh, wrestle, and give/receive kisses. He also doesn't mind hamming for the camera... We were randomly sitting on the bed after I got home from work this past week and Ryan crawled right up and tried to tickle me. Heidi managed to get a couple real nice pictures of us (it's rare that I'm caught in front of the camera...and rarer still that I'm in a picture I actually like).

Did I mention Ryan likes to ham it up for the camera?!?!

Since we don't have a pool close by to our house (at least not one that we can use), Ryan makes the most of bathtime. He pretends like he's swimming and insists on staying in the tub until all the water is out so "I can get wrinkles!!" Too bad he won't be so excited about those wrinkle things in 40-50 years...the innocence of youth!! :)

Papa Comes to Visit!!

2008-07-20T21:08:00.010-05:00

Ryan and Daddy went to the airport today to pick up Papa. We were originally going to drive up, snatch him, and off we go...but Ryan made it pretty clear he wanted to go inside the airport. When Ryan saw his Papa, he ran up with a big grin on his face and gave him a hug. Well worth the walk through the Texas heat. Ryan latched on to Papa from that point on - Ryan wanted to sit on his lap when he got a free chance.

Papa was granted the high honor of reading to the 4-year old before bed time. They had fun reading "Where the Wild Things Are" and "Goodnight Train".

Ryan's thoughts on moving

2008-07-16T21:51:00.005-05:00

Moving is a different experience when you look at it from a kid's point of view! Ryan was convinced all the paper was there for his enjoyment and he made the most of it.

We're finally dug out of the mess and the last part of our shipment showed up today (his playground set). It was an okay move overall - not our best to date - but nothing was broken that can't be easily replaced.

Down time in Louisiana

2008-07-16T21:46:00.010-05:00

Heidi & Ryan got some well deserved time with friends in Louisiana during our move to Texas. Heidi's best friend, Terry, and her kids - Josh, Ellie Kate and Cooper - met up to enjoy a day at the Alligator Farm. The kids had a great time feeding the animals and watching the gators!

Ryan really enjoys playing - like any 4-year old! He was enjoying some play time at the local Alexandria, LA, mall.

This kid is cute!!

2008-07-16T21:24:00.005-05:00

If there's one thing Ryan loves, it's the water. We got these great shots when we were visiting our friends in Tampa, FL. The joy on Ryan's face is totally evident - he had such a great time at the splash park in the Mock's community pool area!