JarJar

A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, a young boy was born...JarJar, Jarhead, J-Dawg...to those reading...Jared. Here is your birth story...

I was set to be induced early on July 29th, 2002, a week before my due date. Because my first baby was a monster in size, the Drs thought it would be best that I not go full term. Minus a constant migraine during the entire first trimester, my pregnancy had been uneventful. My hopes for an uneventful delivery were slim, though. The horrors of Tyler's birth flooded me. I was a bit nervous, but so ready to get this baby out of me. Being pregnant in the middle of a hot, hot summer...no fun!

My Mom came down to help out and so did my sister-in-law, Tara. I was all set to go at 6 am, but they had me hold off until 8. When we arrived, I was quickly hooked up and pitocen was pumped in me. I was feeling good. Then they broke my water--gets me every time. Almost immediately I felt contractions, so the epidural was ordered. I received it about 10:30. However, it didn't seem to take too well and I felt lots and lots of pressure. This was NOT how it felt last time! At 12:00, the nurse "checked" me and said I was ready to push. Already?? I had no clue, it go this fast. Tara had planned on being there, but she'd taken Tyler home for a nap--I honestly thought I'd be sitting around at least until dinner time! No time to fix the epidural...My words to the nurse, "I'm not ready yet!"

Only a few pushes and Jared Daniel Kunz was born at 12:26 pm. He weighed in at a feather weight of 8 lbs 8 oz and stretched to 20". One of the sweetest moments in my life was when the Dr handed him to me and he just stared at me for the longest time. I really felt like our spirits connected during that moment. (This is my favorite part of his birth story that I like to share with him--it's our little bond.) I noticed his dark hair and crazy cowlicks. He also had a small birthmark on his left cheek. He looked nothing like Tyler when he was born. We joked that there was no way he could have been switched at the hospital--he had too many identifying features! So crazy, but so Jared--right from the beginning!
Here are a few scanned pictures (pre-digital, ugh.):

Such a sweet and peaceful baby.

Our first family picture

I love this picture of my Great Grandma holding Jared.

Jared was the BEST baby!! We were able to bring him home to a fun nursery that Rob had put together!! Submarines...how appropriate! You never cried. We thought something may have been wrong with you. At your two week well child, you had an ear infection--I never would have known! Until you started teething, we barely heard a peep! You had such a calming effect on me, which I needed because your brother was giving me a run for my money!

Love those big blue eyes! Jared at 9 months

Jared, you may be my crazy child, the one who I'll always be worried about, the one who will constantly keep me on my toes, but you are also the one who I know truly cares about the people around him. You are so sensitive and kind. You look out for the people you love. I know I can turn to you for a hug and a smile. You amaze me daily with your wit and charm. You have the cutest devilish look--my sweet and spicy all wrapped into one!

Always looking out for his baby sister.Always with a look of "I'm up to something!"

Our family would not be the same without you. I hope all of your Galactic dreams come true! I love you, Jared!