ShaJoes Great Expectations

Little Miss Hannah

2008-06-27T18:50:00.000-07:00

Thanks be to God, Hannah turned two (2) on May 2, 2008. She is a beautiful little girl who loves to have her picture taken. Her mommy and daddy and her whole family are so glad she is a very special part of the family. She is already independent. What a blessing she is.

Hannah's First Tooth!!!!!

2007-01-11T17:14:00.000-08:00

Just had to log this in for the record.

Hannah just recently turned 8 months old and I discovered, when they came to visit, that she has a tooth! Not just a "milk tooth" but a real tooth. She is very active and is a strong little girl, too. She loves to stand on her own and pull up on the furniture. And, she is really clear about responding to her name and playing with the musical instruments she has. She also loves to have books read to her and she retains information to respond to questions about what was read to her.

She is a joy!

Hannah at 8 Months

2007-01-02T01:21:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday, Hannah!

Eight Months Old Today and still travelling more times than I (with your parents).

Celebrated your first Summer, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year in 2006.

Here is to more beautiful days and years to come, blessed child of God!

Hannah at 7 Months-Thanksgiving!

2006-12-19T10:20:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving has come and gone and Hannah had her first taste of family gathering and table laden down with all kinds of great food prepared and shared by my sister, Pat, and her daughter, Shelly and her children for the family.

Oh, Hannah did not get to taste the turkey or ham or sweet potatoe and corn pudding and ..... oh I'm putting on weight just thinking about that feast! Anyhow, to continue about Hannah! She is crawling all around and making every effort to pull herself up to stand. She says, "Da Da." She says, "Hi!" and waves (I think it's because so many people who see her can't resist getting close in her face and saying, "HIIIIIIII!!" with a loud pitch (as we do with infants). :-) So, Hannah has that sound and knows when to use it, too.

Christmas is around the corner (literally next door). And, Hannah is closer to being 8 months old (January 2, 2007). Her granddad, John, (Joe's father) will be here in Maryland to celebrate Christmas with Shannon, Joe, and Hannah and the rest of the family this side of the midwest!

Feel free to write. Ask Questions. Make suggestions/recommendations.

Hannah Is Musical - 6 mos.

2006-11-11T13:41:00.000-08:00

Hannah is now six months old (on Nov. 2, 2006). We babysat her Friday and what a blessing that was. She loves to stand up and now she releases one hand. She is also
taking steps. She crawls and sits up. She is very attentive and she has an ear for
music. This is what I want to share.

Last night (Friday), I sat at my piano with her on my lap and she began to play the piano. I don't mean that she banged on it in a haphazard way. It was with deliberation and squarely on black keys and white keys, in turn. She played with her right hand and her left hand. My only regret was that I had not thought to bring out my tape recorder, because this granddaughter was really unbelievable.

Hannah even rose from my lap to literally stroke the music book I had open on the piano ledge. I couldn't believe it! Than she sat back down and played the piano. She rose again for a closer look at the music book on the ledge and she even tried to turn the page. I don't mean that she slapped at the page or tried to tear it. She knew what she was doing! And, when I turned the page where her finger was, the song on that page was, "The Wind Beneath My Wings." Then she sat back down on my lap and her fingers moved so fast along the piano keyboard ---- but her fingers were hitting the notes on key! She was hitting the white keys between the black keys (while she had turned to look at my son who had come to see what was going on). And, then, to test her, I pressed a key. And she watched, waited, and pressed the key. This is not my imagination. I was there.

I know her parents do not have a piano and that was only the second time I had sat with her at the piano. The first time was when she was about one month or two months old and she surprised me by plunking the keys --- one, a couple of times.

Later, Friday, when I took her back into the den, she picked up my Bible (from among other books that I had lying on the sofa). She turned it the right way (not upside down). And I watched as she opened the Bible cover and turned the pages. She is a blessed child!

Children are blessings from God and must be protected even from the womb. Some of you may recall how we talked to and about Hannah even while she was in my daughter's womb. I had even written and recorded several lullabys and played them on the piano for Hannah (i.e., "Hannah's Lullaby," "God's Little Angel Chile' ," etc.). She already knew us.

Abortionists are wrong! A baby is a baby from conception and that baby is not "material." That baby is not just a fetus. That baby is a precious human who can feel, love, hear, speak, eat, sleep, kick, grow, speak, and KNOW GOD! That baby can speak, because in God, we do not talk with our mouths. We talk to Him with our spirit. And He hears.

"Train up a child in the way it should go and when it is old it shall not depart from it." Remember this! Little Children Can Pray, Too.

Thanks for letting me share with you.

Hannah at 6 Months!

2006-11-02T19:19:00.000-08:00

Today, Hannah Miranda Houser is 6 months old!Praise God!What a blessing.

She is a real joy to have, and you should see her with her mother and father. They make a great family picture! You can look at them and tell how much they love one another --- and you can see how proud Hannah is to be a part of the family. It is a brand new experience for all of us, despite the fact that all of Che's sibblings (our children) and our other granddaughter, KQ, are grown and on their own.

We baby sat Hannah last Sunday and, after she took a nap, while I sat beside her on the sofa, she woke up, looked at me, and sat straight up all by herself. She did not even shake or swerve from the effort. It was no effort for her whatsoever. I was surprised to see her do that.

A couple of days before that, Che' had phoned me and told me that Hannah was lying on her bed and she turned for a second to get some material. She said when she turned back towards the bed, Hannah was sitting up looking at her. That surprised her. And, a few days before that -- Che' said that Hannah had pulled herself up by Che's knees and stood up!

Hannah is 5 Mos. Today!

2006-10-02T06:01:00.000-07:00

What a blessing!

Happy 5 months to Hannah Miranda Houser!

You ought to see her. She gets more beautiful each day.
She is growing so much. Hannah is a big little baby girl.

We all thank God for Hannah.
She is greatly loved by all of her family and friends.

Hannah Is 4 Months Old!

2006-09-02T19:51:00.000-07:00

Today, Saturday, September 2, 2006, Hannah is 4 months old.

She is a beautiful, good baby to babysit. You hardly know that she is in the house.
She is very observant; has an intense, serious look; loves to play with toys;
loves to hold and look at her books; and she likes to hit notes on the piano.
She doesn't bang on the piano, she strikes the keys one at the time.

Oh, and Hannah loves to talk to you and to have her picture taken. She's a doll!

On, Friday, September 1, 2006, Hannah went visiting with her parents by plane.
Joe's family made arrangements to have her christened Catholic. Dorian joined them early Saturday morning. They all went for tomorrow's service.

Joe and Shannon also took Hannah to visit his family just before she turned two months old. She loves her mother and father and whole family.

As some may know, I was present when Hannah was born and I leaned over and
blessed her and dedicated her back to the Lord, as she lay in her warmer.

Isn't God something? God also allowed me to do the exact thing with our now 21 l/2 year old granddaughter. I was present when she was born and God allowed me to bless her and dedicate her back to Him, as she lay in her warmer. Now she is grown and on her own. And she is also the Lord's sweet child. She is a beautiful young woman almost 22 years old.

Hannah at 3 Months!

2006-08-01T23:14:00.000-07:00

Note: Somehow, there was a mistake.
The date and time should be August 2, 2006, 2:27 A.M. EST

What a blessing!

Thank God for Hannah who is three (3) months old today (Wednesday).

Last night (Tuesday), Shannon and Joe were excited to convey that Hannah turned over all by herself from her back onto her stomach and she even removed her arm from underneath her. She is growing. She is very alert. She is a doll.

Hannah had her first cross country trip at one month of age and she did well. Her parents took her for a visit to her paternal grandparents' home for a visit with all the family in the midwest. They stayed there about one week and then returned home.

Harvesting Hannah!

2006-05-04T07:12:00.000-07:00

Good morning to All -- Individually and collectively,

My personal thank you for all the wonderful expressions of congratulations
you sent upon the birth of our granddaughter, Hannah Miranda Houser,
on Tuesday, May 2, 2006, at 11:26 A.M. (7.9 lbs, 18 in.)

Family and friends from near and far are elated that she is finally here.
She is a doll baby. Shannon and Joe are entering parenthood with ease.
They began training for it from before her conception.

And Hannah!

You should see her, because she is just three days old today (Thursday),
but she already searches for them with her eyes, when she hears their voices.
And her grip is steady and sure, as she grabs hold of your finger.

Please continue, with us, as we prayerfully thank the Lord for her safe
"harvesting" on this side of the River.

Thank you, again, and God's continued peace.

Praising God is my fulltime preoccupation,
Rev. L. Dowell, Five-Fold Minister and Dorian Dowell

And, on behalf of all of Shannon's relatives and friends
And, on behalf of Joe's parents and all of his relatives and friends

Countdown to Hannah!

2006-04-21T11:12:00.000-07:00

KEEP AN EYE ON THIS "Hannah Farming" SITE!

It won't be much longer now!

ONLY ONE TO TWO MORE WEEKS AND SAY, HELLO,
TO HANNAH MIRANDA HOUSER!

Thanks be to God, Hannah is getting closer.
We can hardly wait to share the biggest news ever.
One thing I know is that she is already blessed of God.
Her life has already been dedicated to the Lord.

Rev. L. Dowell

Hannah's Responses

2006-04-17T05:46:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Easter Sunday!

At dinner, Shannon shared a "must hear" story about Hannah.

Shannon said that the other day, she told Hannah (in utero) to respond
to her questions with one knock for "yes" and two knocks for "no."

Then she asked Hannah the following questions:

1. Do you like the mommy person and the daddy person?

Hannah knocked one time.

2. Are you ready to meet the mommy person and daddy person?

Hannah knocked one time.

Shannon said, Joe next asked Hannah the following question:

3. Do you think the daddy person should start chewing (tobacco) again?

Hannah knocked TWO times.

Shannon swears it is a true story and I believe her.

Have a good Easter Monday!

(signed) Grandmommy person

If anybody wants to add comments or questions, please feel free to do so.
Thank you.

Hannah's First Easter Gift

2006-04-07T14:51:00.000-07:00

Aha! I beat you to it!! Even though nobody could understand why,
I just couldn't resist. Yesterday (Thursday), I went into the
Giant food store for a few items for lunch and saw it!
Made me come to a quick stop (while walking in the front door).

What was it I saw that had me lose my mind?!
I saw a big Easter Basket that had (and this is what got me) ---
a "Poo Bear" Tea Set, cooking utensils, and a couple of dolls.
AND some small packages of candy. I guess we'll have to break into
the basket and eat the candy, because it is in a gift idea for children
from 3 years old. And Hannah isn't even here yet. I just could not let
that set get away. It might become defunct by the time she will be
able to pretend she is having a tea party. Well? ----- so there! :-)

It won't be much longer now. When we visit them, we even say good-bye
to Hannah, too!

Dedicated to Hannah Miranda Houser who is "God's Little Angel Chile."

By Hannah's Ma's Ma!
God's Little Angel Chile (c) 2005.
By Rev. Lainie Dowell. Columbia, MD.
All rights reserved worldwide.

Hannah M. Houser's Day!

2006-03-27T19:53:00.000-08:00

For those who were unable to attend because of distance and illnesses and other reasons, I want you to know your presence was felt among us Sunday (March 26th). And all of you were remembered in prayer during the Hannah Shower given for the proud parents. We had a wonderful time. Can't say enough about it. Many of their friends came from across the country both near and far. Many more gifts came with them.

Shannon and Joe were pleased with the shower, which was hosted by longtime friends, Jennifer (Buffy), her mom, Jennifer (Ginger), and Kavita.

Shannon's family and friends gathered around to ooh and ahh during the time the gifts were opened. Sha's big sister, Gail, was volunteered (happily) to record the gifts. Thank you notes are up coming ahead. Gratitude is in order for all who helped make this a very special occasion. Special thanks for Shannon's girlfriends who have been with her through ventures in high school, college, and the military. They are special, indeed. Oh, did I mention that this baby shower included females and males? Yes, Shannon's idea. It was a great one, too. Needs to happen more often out there.

The surroundings were beautiful and serene and the food was plentiful and delicious. The cupcakes had "H's" on the frosting (for Hannah, of course). Quite a few of Sha's friends got to "reach out and touch" Hannah. And Shannon "showed" her the gifts and let her hear the musical ones. No, really! :-)

While Shannon and Joe opened the presents, we played the tape recording of my original musical composition that I played and dedicated to Little Miss Hannah. She has a whole lot of family and friends eager to meet her in person. The joyful occasion ended with a prayer circle led by my friend and clergy colleague, Rev. Dr. Lillian A. Davies-Joyner. A blessed time was had by all.

We can't wait to be with all of you again. And we know you can't wait to see Shannon and Joe in person, when they come to visit where you are. You are not forgotten. We want to thank you for letting us share Joe with you. He is a fine young man and all who meet him love him as much as we do.

God bless all,
Shannon and Joe's MA and Pop

The Hannah Shower Update

2006-03-12T05:37:00.000-08:00

Invitations sent out for The Hannah Shower in Columbia, MD.
Date: March 26, 2006
Time: 2 to 5 P.M.
Place: Email for directions.

The Happy Couple are registered at: BabiesRUs and Target.

Questions? Call me. 410-371-1459.

Women and Men will be there. It's a family affair!
Oh, btw, Little Miss Hannah will be there, too! :-)

Planned and Hosted by: Miss Jennifer Rawley and
Friends of Shannon and Joe.

Sumptuous Thanks -- ShaJoe

2006-03-12T05:01:00.000-08:00

What a time. What a time.

Joe and Shannon shared a sumptuous "Thank you meal" with all twelve (12) of us who could come. They hosted us at the Marrakesh Restaurant in Washington, D.C. on Saturday night. We were served a seven-course meal, as we sat around low tables. Let's see if I can remember, because we were so stuffed on our way back home. Imagine how much moreso we would have been, if we had knives and forks!:-) But the food was so tender, it just fell away from the bones. The sauces were sweet and tasty. When I say, "platters," I mean it.

The meal began with the waiter bringing out hot water w/olive oil and poured it out to wash our hands and gave w/towels for us to dry them right there at the table.

1. We started with drinks (soft - hot and cold), bread and cold vegetable salads.
2. The waiters brought out platters with chicken and eggs covered with a paper thin layer of filo dough, crushed nuts, and covered with powdered sugar.
3. Next came platters of whole chickens with olives, lemons, and almonds.

Then the lights went out, the music went up, and a belly dancer appeared.
It was all clean and tasteful (as it goes). Cultural and entertaining.

Then, the lights went back to "half mast," and --

4. Next came platters of succulent lamb w/honey sauce and beef kabobs on a stick.
5. Next came the platters of cous cous with raisins.
6. Next came bowls of various fresh fruits and walnuts, w/glasses of hot mint tea.

Last but not least came --
7. The delicious filo-dough pastry filled with tiny crushed nuts and honey! (you know what I mean).

Friends and family alike came from New Jersey and Baltimore (oh, and Columbia,MD).

Thank you, Joe and Shannon!
From all of your family and friends.

(To those who were not able to be physically present ---- you were there, too.)

Poppa Joe Is Back Home!

2006-02-25T13:14:00.000-08:00

All praises to God for taking and bringing Joe safely from his deployment.
God be glorified in all things. Today, tomorrow, and forever, we prayerfully thank God for the sacrifice of his brother, Tom, who paid the ultimate sacrifice the year before Joe went to take his place on the battlefield. Our prayers continue, also, for Shannon -- who has served her country well on the battlefields for liberty in countries abroad. We thank and praise God for Joe's and Tom's parents and relatives.

We pray God's continued blessings over the many friends and comrades who remain on the battlefield, who have been injured in battle, and for all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

Thank God for Rev. Melinda Lancaster and colleagues who keep this matter in prayer. Special prayerful blessings for Pastor Lin, who understands what it is like to have a loved one serve on the far off battlefields.

Dear Lord, may we never forget the cost of freedom. Hard fought. Hard won.
Somebody needs to appreciate that and say, Hallelujah!

Rev. L. Dowell, Five-Fold Minister
(MA!)

Joe Flies Home!

2006-02-18T11:05:00.000-08:00

JOE FLIES TOMORROW!!! Just thought I'd share. But, it may take about a week for him to get here, because that whole military travel thing....Anyway. Good night

lhk (i.e., love, hugs, kisses)
me and Hannah

Happy Valentine's Day!

2006-02-14T16:47:00.000-08:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!

Sent with Love, Hugs, and Kisses!!!!

~Shannon and Hannah

The Hannah Shower

2006-02-06T21:45:00.000-08:00

Reprint (originally posted Saturday but somehow got deleted)

Cousin took me out last night and we had a nice time. We were going to go to Mongolian Grill, but it was closed when she got here, so we went to the Kiss Cafe. It's a bar/restaurant in B-more. We were too cute for Mongolian Grill anyway. It was a nice time, because it wasn't crowded like a bar, and we sat on couches. It wasn't the flavor I was going for, but it was yummy. In fact it was so yummy that after I finished eating, Me AND Hannah fell asleep on the couch until it was time to go. Wild party animals we are. Tuckered us both out.

Please take note of those FLY Old Navy trousers, that I am wearing. (Joe took us shopping. It was like the absentee shopper, but he took us) Yes, they're maternity and they're WONDERFUL!! We got 3 pairs. Yup. We're that guy. After all, just because we're pregnant, that's NO excuse to look like "Dammit to Hell." As Pop says when I have crying fits, "Go wash your face and get dressed. It'll make you feel better. You'll at least look good." tee hee

Yes, the military tells you to drink water, FOR EVERYTHING. Even for a sucking chest wound, it's the magic alixer. Well, Pop's is, "Wash your face"." It felt really good to get out on a Friday night as opposed to being couped up in the apartment, except when I get to talk to Joe for marathon IM dates. Then it's o.k., because I can sleep easy. Well, I just thought I'd share these pics. Hannah wanted to say hi too, so you get the belly shots. The one's just a cute/funny belly shot (the one of me looking down like "HEY!! Where'd that come from!?"

Well, The weather looks beautiful, so I think we're going to take advantage of it. For those of you who don't know Joe is safe and well and will be flying home the 20th of THIS MONTH!!! So, I know you are and will, but keep your prayers and well wishes for his safe return. He'll be here on the weekends, and then come 1APR HE'S HOME FOR GOOD!!!! Hannah and I have some nice surprises for him, but shhh. He doesn't know what they are. As well, please keep 11MAR open, because I'm thinking we're going to do a Marakesh Night to thank everyone who has been here with me (and putting up with my Sh*t) during this lonely, hard time and for making it as comfortable and easy as possible. You REALLY know who your friends are during a time like this and it also draws a family closer. I like to think. I will surely let you know the confirmation of Marakesh. I think I'll make reservations today, so we have it in advance and you'll get the formal invitation to join us.

As well, my girlfriends, whom I've realized I need more than I ever thought (not that I didn't know, but a time like this confirms it), are devising a master plan...YUP!!! They've got things in the works for a little something called THE BABY SHOWER which will be dubbed "The Hannah Shower". tee hee. Well, we're looking at 25MAR, but you will receive notice from Sandrine, Buffy, Kavita, or Renita. How wonderful are my friends? Yes, yes, do tell...

O.K. Well, It'e after 0900 and we have to motivate. Have a little cleaning to do and have to get some of the fresh air.

More later
LHK
Shannon and Hannah

Note: Pictures upon request. Email Us.

Watching For Hannah Compositions

2006-02-06T21:16:00.000-08:00

Greetings to all across the (S)miles! (Written to Joe's Family and to our Friends)

I know you are as excited as I -- we are -- that little Miss Hannah is continuing to do well on her journey. As well, we are so happy that Joe is getting closer to his trip safely back home. We are proud to know him and to have him as a son.

You may know I have no musical training. I preface my message in that way to let you know the Holy Ghost inspired me to sit at the keyboard and at the piano and He gave me the compositions that are on the enclosed tape. I plan to investigate how I can technically enhance the quality and packaging of the taped sounds to share with other family members and friends. In the meanwhile, I want to share it with you and the family. I hope it blesses you, too, as we look and “Watch For Hannah.” It is all to the glory of God, as He has caused it to be; and I would not be able to play either of those compositions the same way again,(or close to it), even if my life depended on it. :-) The title of the original musical compositions are (1) Sleep Little One Sleep, (2) Watching For Hannah, (3) God's Little Angel Chile, (4) Hannah's Lullaby, and (5) Heavenly Hands (over Hannah) - Finale.

Be well and be found in Jesus, when He comes again.

Love to all,
Excited grandmother once again

(Enclosed) Taped original musical compositions Dedicated to Hannah © 2006. All rights reserved worldwide. By Rev. L. Dowell. Columbia, MD.

Shannon and Her Cinnamon Bun

2006-01-29T00:28:00.000-08:00

Oh, here's a funny one. Yesterday. I had a leftover cinnamon bun, but I just took it with me just in case. Everyone was "coveting" my roll. The one guy even picked it up. Granted it was in a container, but you just DON'T touch other people's food. Well, I made a decent enough threat and told him to stop coveting my food and told him that he ALWAYS does. So, thru the day a couple others started coveting as well. Today, they made mention of it and I just told them, "Look. I'm a true American. We DON'T negotiate with terrorists....and I DON'T give in to covetors."

That's the classic line for the century.

Clothes for Shannon and Hannah

2006-01-23T11:41:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much for coming and showing me Hannah's new outfits and blanket. She's going to be spoiled and it means a lot to me that you've taken the time to pick up the crocheting needle and do that. It's something you are good at and haven't done in FOREVER and I know that getting back into something, takes much energy and thought, because it's always "Where do I start?" Joe called and I told him about it and he's anxious to see everything.

'Nita and I went to Old Navy and I got some new outfits. Mostly pants, since I have so many tops to wear. Even better, I didn't spend nearly as much as I thought I would and I got a lot.

Well, We're going to eat a little something and relax with our feet up. I have to say "our", because I think Hannah will get upset if I make her not feel included in this little partnership.

O.K. Well, more later
Love, Hugs, Kisses
Shannon and Hannah

Adventures of Hannah Farming

2006-01-13T15:18:00.000-08:00

Hello,

O.K. I sent the pics to Joe so that he will be the first to see his little one's face. You, my family, are now the second to see Hannah's face. I know...Usually you get to see the sonos that you get to imagine what the face REALLY looks like, but...Yesterday, I had a high-risk sono. I think I told you and everything was fine. The technician has a soft spot for service members (especially those missing their children becoming people) so she did some 3D photos.

So, to you....HERE SHE IS!!!!
Hannah Miranda Houser's first 3D sonogram pictures.

I hope they're clear enough for you to see, but I think you will. Her little hands are perfect...10 fingers and 10 toes evenly distributed between 2 hands and 2 feet. Doesn't it just make you love her more? I know it does for me. Initially, being pregnant, I was of course SHOCKED, scared, angry even, happy, confused...yes, confused..."How'd this happen?" Confused....Don't answer that. I know all about sharing water glasses and toilets....Duh? 8^D. The anger, was from the fear of me and Joe not having alone "us" time, the big deployment money, unnecessarily HUGE wedding...Seeing her first sonograms with a silhouette of her face and her hands and feet and watching her move about wondering, "What the hell is my baby doing?" and "What is she thinking?", was amazing. It was stimulating.

Finding out she is "a Hannah" made me instantly fall in love with her and feel closer to her. (Yes, I wanted a girl first). BUT!!! Seeing her face in this 3D sono...I melted completely. I felt EVERY bit of love for her that I knew I would when she decides to come. I feel like I know her. It was the first time I saw her sleeping, because usually she's dancing around. Well, I love her and I know you all do, too, and are as anxious as I am to meet her. I hope that my sending you these pictures brings you closer to me and Hannah and that it helps those of you who are not near to be a part of "The Adventures of Hannah Farming."

Love
Shannon and Hannah

[Note: Those pics are incredible. Email and we will send them along.]

News From the Hannah Farm

2006-01-13T15:05:00.000-08:00

Good day to all,

Sorry about the mass message (you may also get it again, via my aol, but I'll send the family mass on it's own.), but I had my "high risk pregnancy sono" yesterday. It was actually a boost of something good that I needed to pick me up, if only for a moment. I think the story will pick you up too...Maybe?

Everything was fine with the sono. Teddy brought me Sudafed yesterday (non-drowsy), but it didn't really help so much, so I got the Sudafed Cold, which knocked me out (well, Kquiana went for it), AND Hannah as well. She's still sleep.(this was last night after the sono). She was sleep earlier when I got the sono (first time I saw her sleep.). It was SO cute. Precious even. It made me love her more; the sono yesterday. Everything was o.k. What it was that they were looking at was a "venous link" n(maybe it's a "venous leak"? Basically, the technician said that the placenta doesn't all work (it's only a portion that does anything). A small portion of the placenta is sectioned off and either died off or just is there. She said it's such a small portion that it's nothing. I liked the technician. She said also that there were the fibroids...Someone's stirring grogally a bit as I type (I won't name names, but it sounds like Banana)...Anyway. She also said that there were the small fibroids and the one that's 2 inches. She said, that the problem with that would have been if Hannah would have implanted into that, or if it were inside the uterus, I think she said. But none of those are factors, so...We're good and Hannah looks great.

Looking at the sono was funny. Hannah was sleep, so she wasn't playing like usual and it was easier to get pictures. Her feet are up by my ribs and she was kicking the umbilical cord, like, "This place isn't big enough for the two of us." She was so sleepy. She sleeps with her hands over her face crossed. The technician confirmed again that she's a Hannah, because she got a CLEAR shot of her boo boo, which is pressed up on my belly button. That was funny to see her little butt. I just wanted to pinch it. Then, We saw her organs and bones. She's so shapely. Her Jane Fonda workouts are really doing the trick. (I say that, because in the sono at the hospital she was crisscrossing her arms and we caught her doing a drive by thumb suck. I think she knew she'd been discovered, so she quickly removed it and whistled it off.)

Well, the best part is when the technician was finished doing the checking that she needed to. (Hannah's heart beat is 140. Guess that's a wives tale WE can put stock in, huh?). Well, when the tech finished she said, "O.K. DON'T TELL ANYONE OUTSIDE THIS OFFICE. (In the waiting room), ...But now we're going to play." She has an appreciation for our service members and because I told her that I video tape or get as many pictures for Joe, she cut us a solid. We couldn't video tape, but...Well, Joe and I talked about doing the 3D sono. She did it. It was amazing and I WISH Joe were there. I wish everyone could have been there. I saw Hannah's face and it's beautiful. Kquiana was with me and was just as amazed. She was knocked out and her hands were crossed in front of her face, so the mommy person had to harass the baby for a bit. It was like she was going, "No...No pictures at this time. Please, No pictures at this time." I jiggled her saying, "Say Hi to the mommy person. Com'mon Hannah. Say hi to the mommy person." And, "Say Hi to the daddy person. He'd REALLY like you to say hi to him. Say hi..." Kquiana teased that she was going to get shaken baby syndrome. She probably got aggravated a bit and she moved her arms. Her face is perfect and precious. I think she has Joe's nose. Her eyes were closed of course and at a point, I think she pursed her lips. The technician printed out 4 pics for us and they're beautiful. There's a pic, where, you know when you take your baby for pictures and they put their hands together by the side of their face? Like they're going, "See how cute I am?" She did that. Not even on purpose, but it's adorable. It really makes a difference seeing her face and KNOWING how beautiful she is, as opposed to wondering from the fuzzy sono. I nearly blew tears. She's a real person. A REAL HANNAH. She's gone from a little Peppercorn to a Hannah.

Well, this was yet another saga in "Adventures in Hannah Growing" and you heard it first, straight from the "Hannah Farm."

I hope everyone's day is joyous.

Shannon and Hannah

Hannah's Big Jar of Blessings

2006-01-08T07:23:00.000-08:00

Leave it to Shannon!

Yesterday, Dorian and I visited Shannon. She was on the line with Joe's Aunt from Nebraska, and I got to meet her. Nice. I was also pleasantly surprised to find she had set us a fundraiser for Hannah's sake. That is, Shannon brought out a large jar from Hannah's room to show me she has started a fund for Hannah. I was immediately impressed to put some money into the jar. I also tried talking Shannon into leaving the jar out so visitors could see it. I know they would also be led to add to it. In no time, she would have to bring out another jar (and it is pretty large).

No way. Couldn't talk Shannon into placing that jar in the living room in plain view. Well, I'll just pray for her to change her mind. How about that! :-) No, really!

Sandrine Visits Che' And Hannah

2006-01-07T14:22:00.000-08:00

Thanks going out to Sandrine for visiting Che' and staying to help her and Hannah. What a long-time friend she has been to Shannon, also!

Shannon has been blessed to have gathered such a wide array of friendships at home and abroad through both her national and international travels and her friends' reciprocal visits here to see her.

Hannah is having a great time learning about the world. She is going to be saturated in different languages, cultures, lands, and musics, by the time she makes her physical appearance. And that won't be too much longer --- just a few more months now. Look out world! A long-awaited and welcomed change is a comin'! Thank you, Jesus! I guess you can tell we are all excited and eagerly await her presence!

Continuing in prayer for Che' and Joe. Joe, if you are reading this, don't worry, Shannon is in good hands --- but we'll look forward to your return. Be well. Take care.

Hannah's Clothes Closet Revealed

2006-01-06T05:47:00.000-08:00

Thought maybe you could get a kick out of this one. I've run a muck with getting SOCKS for Hannah. Socks and Mittens. Here are a couple of the little things that I've gotten for her. She has STUFF!!!! The ducky socks have matching mittens and there are a pair of pink socks like the white and pink ones. They're about the size of my pinky. The duckies were inspired from the ducky that Joe's dad sent. And the outfits are covered in WINNIE THE POOH!!!! Or characters there of.

O.K. Well, I have to get rest, because I'm not feeling so very hot. -Che'

[If anybody wants to see Hannah's closet and STUFF, email and we'll send the pics.]

A Cute Story (and response)

2005-12-31T01:17:00.000-08:00

So, I was watching Maternity Ward on Discovery Health. They showed a preemy born at 6 months gestation. The mom already was messed up on the inside, because her uterus was split in two more or less, so she kind of had two uteruses and the baby really didn't have room. So, they had to deliver him. He was So little and didn't even look like a real person. I go, "See, Hannah? That's a you. That's why you have to stay in a little while longer, because you're not finished baking." Yeah. She's in the baby oven and I had to explain that if she comes out early then she'll have to go in an artificial baby oven to finish baking." I think she understood.

MA's Response
Guess what, Che'? I saw those same programs earlier today and, at that particular segment, I was thinking the same thing. I'm glad to know how you responded to it, when you saw it. At the time, I had thought you wouldn't want to be anywhere near those programs. I was wrong.

Oh by the way, the names of those books I picked up for you today are: (1) "Infant Massage: A Handbook for Loving Parents," by Vimala Schneider McClure; (2) "Sign With Your Baby: How to communicate with your infant before they can speak," by Joseph Garcia with Forward by Dr. Burton White; (3) "My Child Won't Do As I Say," by Polly Greenberg; and (4) "Children and Their Mothers," an international pictorial by Hanns Reich.

So, on to the blog we go, MA!

Picture THIS!

2005-12-29T05:27:00.000-08:00

This is the way I described it for Joe's folks:

Here are a couple pix that I took for Joe, but I think you could use the laugh. You can see some of our lovely abode in the first picture and the GROWING POOF!!! The second picture is Hannah (w/me looking down). I noticed that she had traveled to the left mommy hemisphere for vacation so I laid on my back and decided that Joe would love this one. Then the brilliant thinker that I am....wink, I decided it would be cool to take a picture from the bottom looking up. I think that one is just funny, because I'm peering over like, "Hello...Can you see me?" I really didn't think that I was that big, but I guess I know better now.

O.K. Hope you have a great evening.
US

P.S. That picture she described is soo funny! If anybody wants to see it, just email and we'll send it along.

Hannah and Che' Write to Joe

2005-12-26T23:16:00.000-08:00

21DEC05 -- I’m in our apartment now, but it’s lonely. I’ve been by myself before and was used to it, but now it just seems lonely. The place is empty. Before I would have been SO excited to be in a place so large and by myself, but it’s like there’s much missing, starting with Joe… Then I get to imagine Hannah running around….O.K. Well, she won’t be big enough to run around there, but the thought is still cute. It’s easy to cry myself to sleep for being so lonely and for missing Joe and for wanting him to be here to see what home I’ve begun. And so that he can see me getting rounder. I know that him being here would take away from the self-consiousness and the loneliness. Well, hopefully not much longer and he‘ll be home. Just the way he left.

Oh. Here’s the stupid quote of the day:

I was getting up from a chair and I have to kind of heeve myself (because the little person likes to sit in my pelvis). Otherwise her head puts pressure on me. One of the guys (who’s prone to say stupid things and think he’s brilliant) says, “Oh, com’mon!! You’re not even big enough to have to rock yourself up, yet.” He was dead serious. I held in my offense, but it’s like, "Hey Dumbass!! Think about what comes out of your teeth before you spit it."

Here’s something pretty cute. We had a Christmas party at work. I must be pregnant, because even with two plates, I was quite bold. I put my fried chicken and roast beef on my plate with my cheese cake, sweet potato pie, and yams. AND my other food. Yeah. It all touched. Anyway. They had live music there and someone… whose name happens to be Hannah, I believe enjoyed the music. She started thumping. All I could do is sit and laugh, because I know it was triggered by the music. I can’t wait for Joe to see my belly thump, because of Hannah’s excitement. I think she’ll know when he’s home. She thumps when he calls and I’m talking to him, and she’s thumping right now. We’re going to go take a nice bath and write a letter to Joe.

Hannah's My Little Twinkie

2005-12-26T23:08:00.000-08:00

19DEC05 -- I had my doctor’s appointment today. I’m up to 124lbs. That’s a 12 lb gain from when I started. OH NO!!!! How am I going to fit my ass into normal people chairs?! (Just kidding. It’s ALL in my belly AND THE BOOBIES!!!!) Kquiana went with me and was able to video the heartbeat which is at 145 beats/minute. It was funny, because one could hear my beat in there as well. It sounded like a well-tuned rhythm station. I go, “My baby has rhythm!!” When I told Joe, of course he said, “…And she gets that from her mother.” tee hee hee.

Well, as for the sonogram taken on the 7th…. So far everything’s fine, but Misty (the midwife) said that there’s a vein that’s grown and she’d like for me to get it checked at University of Maryland or John’s Hopkins. I’m going to the U of M on the 12th of JAN. I just wish that Joe were here to go with me. I’m not worrying, BUT it would make it easier. I’m lucky though, because I have friends and family who make sure that I’m not alone. Well, I asked if it’ll make our baby retarded and Misty said no, but she wants it checked to make sure it doesn’t grow and cause trouble and that she wants to make sure nothing else needs to be done. I’m glad that she’s not the type to get a patient all worked up. I can’t handle that right now. Misty said that Hannah’s about 16 cm and she showed me on the tape measure. She said that she’s folded in half, so she’s about the size of a “twinkie”. How cute is that? My little twinkie.

'Raina Goes Home

2005-12-26T23:01:00.000-08:00

18DEC05 -- Today ‘Raina and I went to the storage to finish getting the last little bit and to close out the account. The lady there is excited about Hannah and requested that we bring her by when she comes. I will.

'Raina headed out today and called in the evening. Again, I am SO fortunate to have her.

Uraina Comes to Town

2005-12-26T22:53:00.000-08:00

17DEC05 -- Uraina drove down this morning. Am I EVER so fortunate to have friends like her. She drove down from Philly just to help me get things in order. The minute she walked in, she asked, “What do you need me to do?” I expected that she would help me hang clothes and that, but she arranged my living room, did laundry, and took boxes to the dumpster. She also organized the BIG trunks in the den so that I could get to what I need to and so that it’s neat. As well, she made it so that we could go thru each tub and get out what I needed. This included bedding and kitchen/cookware. AND SHE WAS STILL READY FOR MORE!! She encouraged me to sit and put my feet up, but I’m hard headed and by the end of the day, my legs swelled and I had to sleep with my feet up. We had dinner at the Kawasaki Restaurant in Fells Point, then went grocery shopping on the way home. She carried in about 9/10ths of the groceries. What would I do without her? Now the place is nice and comfortable and there are only the small things that need to be done. Joe’s bathroom also has appeal to it. He’ll be happy to see what his home looks like. SO WILL HANNAH!! Joe had called shortly after ‘Raina got here. I had previously warned her that when she meets him, he will thank her numerous times. I put her on the phone with him and sure enough she was finger counting how many times he thanked her. It was about 3 in the space of less than a minute. I love him and she could tell how genuine he is. Oh yeah. ‘Raina even made my high heel shoe chairs work in the living room. Is that magic OR WHAT!!??

Che's Moving Day Recap

2005-12-26T22:47:00.000-08:00

16DEC05 -- Today I moved into our new apartment. It’s BEAUTIFUL!! It’s a two bedroom, two bathroom, with den. O.K. The den is more like a storage for now, but it’s all right. Later it will be an office or an extra guest room. Hannah even has a room. WITH STUFF!! I think she’s excited about that. She has clothes in her closet and other little things. Winnie the Pooh rulz!! Kquiana helped me pack things last night AND BOY WHAT A HELP. She wouldn’t let me touch anything. Well, Clarissa came and sat with me while the movers did their thing. They started at 1700 and were finished at 0100. They were late, because of their boss’ inability to schedule, but…they were quick and very nice and gave well wishes to me and Joe and Hannah. Unfortunately, the busy bee that I am, I learned a hard lesson. Even though I am quite little, all of my extra weight is in my belly. Well, I was on my feet all day and night trying to get work out of the way so I wouldn’t look at it later going, “What am I suppose to do with this?!” Well, it took its toll to the point that I couldn’t walk too well. I got pain in the abdomen, the back, and the legs…It was treacherous, but I couldn’t stop. I want everything perfect for when Joe’s home.

Moving Day Is Done

2005-12-17T17:21:00.000-08:00

Shannon and Little Miss Hannah moved into their new place on Friday, December 16, 2005. She had the help of a professional mover and great friends who came over and helped her where they left off. She has received loving encouragement from Joe. And she is doing all she can to help him to be a part of the "pregnant pause," while he is deployed. Che' told me Joe said some of the men whose wives are expecting also are having girls. And they are all just as excited about the upcoming births.

Of course, we had hoped she would wait a little while longer before she moved but once she makes up her mind to do something, you can be sure she is going to follow through to get it done.

(Here's an example about how goal oriented Che' is) --
When Che' was about four years old or so, she started a coin jar and pasted a label on it that it was her college fund. She also wrote that nobody was to take anything out of it, because she was going to count it every week (and she did, too). Well, she did grow up and go on to graduate from college. Thing is ---- I still have that jar with the label still pasted on it --- and it is heavy, too.

Whenever you set your sights on a goal, make them high, because you have already taken a flying leap of faith and God knows He is standing by to get it done.

Moving On. . .

2005-12-12T18:35:00.000-08:00

I'll be moving in Wednesday and the phone will be on (at our new place). I have some friends who are coming to help set things up. One of them is coming from Philly (Hopefully, she'll be able to come. I haven't seen her in a couple years.) Though I'll be in the place by myself, I won't really be. I'll probably have to unplug the phone for everyone calling to check, if we're all right.

So, here's a cute story to add to the e-mail. I guess it's cute, but in the same light wierd. So....Last night, I was lying on my back watching T.V. I noticed that the left side of my belly was lopsided. There was a big knot so I felt it. Someone...who will remain nameless less I cause embarrassment, was balled up. I guess the little person decided to travel to that side of the mommy hemisphere and got tuckered out and fell asleep. It was like a little grapefruit that I just cupped into my hand. Hopefully, I'll be able to entice the little one, by rubbing, to stay there or the right side as oppose to on my sciatic nerve as was the case all weekend. As well, I think someone is highly light sensitive. I'll feel little kicks and punches and I'll put my hand on it, because it feels funny. Well, I'll lift my waist band so that I can see my belly jump, BUT the little jokester, knows I'm watching, because the light comes in and STOPS!!!! WHO DOES THAT!!?? Then when I replace my waistband...THE THUMPING RESUMES!! Like, "I'm SO SORRY for interrupting your games!! I'm a BAD Mommy!" O.K. We have an appointment Monday the 19th, and I'm sure there will be more stories to tell... Shannon.

In Her Own Language

2005-12-11T12:21:00.000-08:00

My daughter's response to my last blog post follows:

That's nice. I like how you drew the suspense. That's cute.

I must add though so all the info is correct...

It's "Che'"

[I knew that, but I wasn't sure she wanted me to disclose it, so I shortened her real name instead of her nickname --- to be used only by certain selected people.]

[Che' continues with her comments to me, as follows,]

(and I wasn't the one who couldn't wait to open the envelop, because I didn't want to.) I REALLY didn't want to. I couldn't. But, Joe (and the guys he's deployed with) HAD to know. He even suggested that I give it to some stranger to open and e-mail to him, OR for me to send it to him so he could tell me. I would have been happy to just go ahead calling the baby "Her" until told otherwise all the way til the birthday.

LHK [that is her way of saying, "Love, Hugs, and Kisses"]
/Me

[Then Che' sent me another followup response -- I sure hope I'm not letting too much out of the bag. But, if I am, I KNOW she will tell me. Until then, we got a whole lotta bloggin' goin' on. Read on for the first announcement of the baby's name. ] /MA!
~PUBLICLY ANNOUNCING OUR BABY'S NAME~
Here's the message I sent to everyone:

No questions. IT'S A GIRL!!! O.K. I know I'm pretty sick with all of these e-mails, but...Cousin opened the envelop and e-mailed it to Joe. BUT as soon as she hit the send button, the phone rang and it was him, so she told him on the phone. He then told me. So... On or about 07MAY06 . . . who should be joining us?
Little Miss Hannah Miranda Houser
This message is shorter than the last, I figure I'll spare you the pain of the continued reading, but...That was definitely one to share....
[Be sure you mark that date.]

As always, Best wishes!
/Shannon

And the Envelope Pulleeze!

2005-12-11T01:27:00.000-08:00

After Sha's sonogram last Friday evening, she asked the sonographer to place in a sealed envelope what she thought the baby's gender is. With envelope in hand that Sha marked, "The Magic Moment," she headed for home content to wait until after Joe came home. Well, Saturday afternoon, Sha couldn't wait any longer. So she had her cousin, Jennifer, unseal the answer and to email it to Joe ---- of course, by now, Sha also knew. So --- Ladies and Gentlemen, and children of all ages ---

The Envelope, Pulleeze!

No, I don't think I want to let you in on it.
Well, o.k.

The answer IS ------- (drum roll, please).

They are EXPECTING!
o.k. -- o.k. I'll tell you.

Later on.

Are you still here? o.k.

Sha is carrying A Little GIRL!

She said, Joe told her, "Now I have two little princesses. I guess I have to buy a shotgun (to keep away the boys)."

Womb Update!

2005-12-07T23:10:00.000-08:00

Below is the e-mail that I (SHA) sent out to let everyone know about the little new person. Joe's mom actually sent a really nice e-mail response. Gotta keep everyone up to date on the adventures of growing a new person.

I messed up and found out what we're having. I just couldn't help but notice. We're having a little Black Panther. I say this, because when the technician first got a view, her arm was up and aparently she likes to keep it by her head. I thought maybe she's a thumb sucker, but she wasn't at the time. Well, later I said, "Is that your little hand?" The technician said that it is and that she was making a fist by her head. I'm waiting to hear Joe go, "Power to the People!"

Our baby is 10 oz. now, but I forgot to ask how long. Confirmed 19 weeks (as we already knew). Our little one made little punches while getting the pics (and after I finished our red, white, and blue icee pop). Notice I refer to our little one as "she" still until I find out otherwise. Anyway. The growing new person has all 10 fingers and 10 toes and little ears like ours. The nose has a wonderful little slope like Joe and I both have. The technician said her legs were crossed, so of course I said, "It must be a girl." It's funny, because the new person was flouncing about and I was right. The head is down. I've felt the little golf ball head and she likes to hang out REALLY low. Don't know why.

I couldn't video the sonogram, because they don't allow it (legal reasons). I was SO destroyed, but the technician made sure to print TONS of pictures for us. So I have a couple that I'll send to Joe, because she did them in two's. Once I get into our new apartment this month, I'll scan pics and send them out via e-mail.

We got pictures of the little foot and a front and a profile of the face. It's funny, because she got a great picture of the bottom of the foot. I WISH SO MUCH THAT JOE WAS THERE...I could just laugh. The little hands and feet are about as big as my thumb nail.

She has a perfect little face, which it's suprising that one can tell. She has little ears like me and Joe, and a slope nose. AND A BIG BWAIN!!!! SHE'S GONNA BE A THINKER!!!!

Well, I'm sorry I had to mass mail this one; but, as you see it was a lot to write, so I just took all the addresses I have and dropped you a line.

O.K. Well, I hope that everyone is well,and Our little new person says HUH-WOAH!!!

(signed)/Us

P.S. Don't be bashful. comment. Tell us what you think. Thanks.

Pregnancy-Chicken Pox

2005-12-02T19:18:00.000-08:00

ALERT! ALERT!

Pregnant women be alert to others with whom you associate during your pregnancy -- especially during the first weeks of gestation. Chicken pox is still around. And it remains a danger to expectant mothers and their babies. Even newborns ought not be exposed to this infection. If you find yourself in such a situation, get in touch with your doctor(s) to seek their medical opinion. Conduct an online search to read for yourself as much information as you can. I like to search via http://www.google.com . You do not have to use this link but follow through immediately. It is just that important!

My faith-filled prayers are joining with yours. God bless you and yours.

Thanksgiving 2005!

2005-11-24T09:54:00.000-08:00

I am truly thankful to God for giving to each and every one from out of His great treasures.

May this be the start of a great beginning for you all both now and in the days and years to come, if the Lord tarries! For, in Him, we are never alone. And, through Him, we have a great big pile of leaves to jump into and a warm, crackling fire to heat you. Thank you for joining us.

In this time of Thanksgiving, we support all of our troops and our Commander in Chief.

Sending much love to all in this, our time of Thanksgiving.

How Excited Am I?

2005-11-22T21:34:00.000-08:00

Very, but don't expect me to get too personal here. After all, this is going to be about my reflections on the birth watch of our second grandchild. This will be the first for this daughter and her beloved Joe.

I just noticed that on today's date, my oldest daughter was celebrating her third birthday, as we watched the televised programming of the state funeral of President John F. Kennedy, complete with the salute by John John and seeing all the national and international dignitaries who had come to pay their respects to Mrs. Kennedy and the Kennedy family.

We have a granddaughter who, in about a week, will be 21 years old. Hers was also an excited birth watch. When we stop to consider, then I believe anyone would be hardpressed to believe that life/birth does not begin at conception. It is a proven fact that many women and men are deceived. Life is life at whatever stage we detect it. To any who might give thought to terminating that life (aka abort), I am here to tell you that, if you do, in the years to come, you will regret it and mourn that loss of what would, should, could have been. Don't do it.

May God give you strength and peace.

We Begin~ Come on!

2005-11-22T21:05:00.000-08:00

What a journey! Well, here we go, and we want to invite you to come along as we give you a first-hand tour of the trip. Hopefully, you will be able to keep up. To do that, you'll have to keep coming back to follow up with what is new. Thanks for coming. See you again soon.

Let's get started!