What a year...

A year ago today was one of the saddest days of my life and my families lives. We lost my step-dad Steve after a short, but very hard illness. We have been through so much in this year. I remember going to my Mom's house and praying that I wouldn't go into labor. Now, I have a bouncing little boy who is walking, but am also missing 2 of the best guys I knew. My grandpa Clynn also died the night before Ryker was born (November 4th). Here's what I remember about these 2 great men:

Steve
You were always smiling. Hunting was your thing (you would be proud- Dustin's trying to get his BBD *big buck down*) We think about you a lot when Dustin uses your elk call to get Ryker excited, or when he puts on your camo.
I remember that you told me I have a lot of dads and that you will always be there for me and it is true, but I miss you a lot and wish you were here. You sent me Ryker and I see a lot of you in him (mesmerized by those elk and loves the outdoors!)
We spent a lot of time together in the months before you passed. You were so so positive and give me so much inspiration to get through my trials. I walked into the specialty hospital for the first time last week- where we spent lots of time and where we got the news. I thought it would be hard, and it was, but I was comforted knowing that you aren't in pain anymore and that you did meet Ryker.
Thanks for being a great dad to me and for always being such a fun, loving person. Miss you and love you lots!

Grandpa Clynn
I remember the first time I layed eyes on you...what a sad day but you made me so comfortable (little back story- I met him at my Dad's funeral and had never met that part of my family before). Your love for me was always there, even though I wasn't there.
You were also such a fun person. I loved d the time we spent talking. You made me feel so welcome into the family and I never once doubted that you loved me. You also were a great example of strength in hard times.
Although I only got to know you for a short while, I really love you. You overnighted Ryker straight to us and I can just see you smiling as you sent me this fun, crazy boy and said "good luck! He's going to be a fun little handful!" Love you and miss you!

Since I couldn't let myself end this post while crying- I thought I would give some happy news.
RYKER IS WALKING! Yay horray! He is so brave and stands up and takes 4-5 steps, falls down and right back up he gets! He has also taken a liking to bringing me things. This morning it was graham crackers that he wanted opened and this afternoon- every book he owns. He also has become even more lovey and gives big open mouth kisses that leave me with slobber all over and a big grin on my face. Thanks Steve and Grandpa Clynn for sending me my fun little guy!

One Week to Go!

Hey everyone,
So we made it through the weekend and didn't have the baby! Now I'm ready to get this show on the road. I can't wait to meet him and he just isn't cooperating. I went to the doctor this morning and she said I haven't got much going on but hopefully this week I'll just go into labor. If I don't, it'll be a long wait for my induction on November 13th! Wish me luck!
In other news, my step-dad's funeral went well. Hard day but it was beautiful. Thanks to all those who showed support.
I am no longer a hunting widow. Dustin has returned from his elk and deer hunting expeditions empty handed :( That's alright with me because we really wouldn't have eaten the meat. I am so grateful that he's home to help and be supportive.
Hope that I'll be blogging about being in labor!
Love,
Ashley, Dustin and Baby Nielsen

In Loving Memory...

"To know you was to love you".

Yesterday my step-dad Steve Thalman passed away following a short illness. Steve had been in my life for about 12 years and had been like a father to me.
We had so many fun times, especially in the past few weeks. We joked and laughed a lot and had a good time talking about everything. He was so fun and always had a great attitude. Dustin and Steve were also close. They went on a few fishing trips recently and Dustin came back with many fun memories and times. He really loved Steve too and we will both miss him dearly.
Steve was so excited to meet our new little guy. Steve just couldn't wait so he went up to spend some time with him before he comes. Steve will for sure teach him how to fish and hunt- I bet we'll have quite the outdoorsman! We're hoping the baby waits to come for at least a week so that he can spend more time with Steve and also so we can get through this hard time before we welcome the joy of a new baby.
I just wanted to write a little to commemorate this great man that we will all miss. We love you!
Love,
Ashley, Dustin and Baby Nielsen