Our Story Begins...

Well, I'm finally writing a blog- per the request of some persistent people :) I suppose the best way to start is at the beginning. At least the beginning of the interesting stuff, so here goes. You'll have to forgive me if my words get away from me, I'm new at this :) My husband, Jeff, and I, met in Utah in 2006 on a blind date. His uncle Greg was in my ward and he set us up. We were both smitten :) and we got married in the Salt Lake Temple on May 10, 2007.

Three months later we picked up and moved to Columbus, Ohio where Jeff would complete his medical schooling at THE Ohio State University. So many things happened during our stay there and it was one of the best experiences we've had individually and as a couple.

We welcomed a sweet kitty into our little family within the first few months of being there. She was a cute fluffball and we named her Sophie. She brought lots of happiness and laughter into our lives and really was a cuddlebug when we first got her (You wouldn't know that know, however, as age has made her kind of a brat :).

While Jeff attended school I had the pleasure of working at Creature Comforts Animal Clinic. Every member of the staff I worked with brought knowledge and joy into my life. I could honestly go on and on about them and how wonderful they are, and perhaps sometime I will, but not now. While I did love working in the veterinary field I felt the pull of something new and decided to go back to school and become an aesthetician / nail technician. It was a great experience for me and I am so glad that I did it.

Well, the rains came and went and in June 2010 I found out that I was expecting another addition to our family. We were ecstatic! Even though I was nauseous during most of my pregnancy I really enjoyed it. I was able to spend a lot of time during my pregnancy with family in Utah and Arizona which was a great blessing. Our baby boy was due February 3, 2011, but as it so often the case, things didn't go according to plan. I went to the hospital for a routine test on January 15, 2011 and while there the baby's heart rate dropped and I was taken for an emergency c-section. Ryan Edward Aucoin was 5lb 5oz and 19 in long when he came into the world. While it wasn't planned and we weren't even close to prepared, I was overjoyed to hold my son in my arms. *Little side note here, we DID NOT name him after Edward Cullen of Twilight fame. Edward is a family name on Jeff's side.*

We brought our little boy home and with some help from our moms and dads, we took on our new roles as parents. I love my little guy with all of my heart but for the first few months I fought a battle with post pardum depression. Some may think it odd or in poor taste to talk about this but I feel it is vitally important that other moms know that they are not alone. Eventually I found the right doctor and medication and am feeling like my old chipper self again.

Ryan is a wonder. He is so full of life and happiness. He keeps me on my toes and reminds me to appreciate the little things, like how soft certain fabrics are, and how comforting just a touch can be. Seeing his smile and hearing his giggle makes my day instantly better. I love spending time with him and joy in rediscovering the world through his eyes.

Well, back to our story. In March of 2011 we found out that Jeff had been accepted to the University of North Carolina's neurosurgery residency program. It is a great place and a good program, but I must admit initially it was quite a shock and disappointment. We had heard many good things from the University of Utah (which was Jeff's first choice- based on the location as both of our families live there) and really expected to end up there, which was probably why UNC was such a shock. Anywho, we regrouped and moved to "the south" in July, which has been great so far! We are in a wonderful ward and while the weather is a bit too warm and humid for my taste it is really beautiful and I am so excited to immerse myself in the southern culture. I may even pick up an accent ;)

So, that brings us just about up to date. Jeff works at the hospital during the day and Ryan and I watch movies, go for walks, have play dates and generally have fun together until Daddy gets home. I'm going to try to be consistent about updating this blog with new adventures and, of course, lots of pictures, because lets be honest, that's all any of us care about anyway :)