More details to come....when Mommy brain has subsided a bit and I've gotten in some time to sleep.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
It's A Girl! (A Big Girl!)
Savannah Paige was born early this morning (September 30th) at 3.34am after 8 1/ 2 hours of labor. She weighs 8 lb, 13 oz and is 21 1/4 inches long.
More details to come....when Mommy brain has subsided a bit and I've gotten in some time to sleep.
More details to come....when Mommy brain has subsided a bit and I've gotten in some time to sleep.
Monday, September 28, 2009
If You're On The Fence About The Swine Flu Vaccine...
As with ALL vaccinations, but especially with new ones, please make sure you are well-informed about the pros and cons before simply taking the word of one (or even several) doctors.
This Is The Week
Tomorrow is my last and final pre-natal appointment and I admit I am growing a bit anxious. I really don't want to have to make a choice regarding how I will be induced and considering Wednesday is my cut-off date, I'm getting a little nervous.
I realize this whole thing sounds absurd to most people considering that MANY of my friends opt to be induced every time. But when you're crazy like me and you want to do things naturally and let things go on their own...and then when things don't go on their own...it gets to be a little frustrating.
As some background for those who don't know....I was induced at 41 weeks with my first baby almost 5 years ago. I was told via ultrasound that he looked to be about 6 lbs and the doctor was concerned that he might not be getting enough nutrients from the cord, so they suggested induction. Being the naive, young, first-time-mom-to-be that I was....I assumed that was my only option.
My son was born about 10 hours later, after me being constrained to my hospital bed and enduring several hours of extremely strong contractions, at a beautiful weight of 7 lbs, 6 oz. Thus began my realization that technology is not always all that it's cracked up to be.
My second child was born 14 months later and came all on her own at 41 weeks and 1 day. Her labor and delivery was beautiful! I labored in (and out of) the tub for several hours and she arrived 7 hours after I arrived at the hospital birthing center. My midwife was FANTASTIC and, regardless of the fact that my daughter's heartrate dropped slightly with each contraction, the midwives thankfully allowed me to be closely monitored and did NOT send me to c-section as many doctors would have.
My third child followed 18 months after my second. I had weeks of irregular contractions (not unlike this pregnancy), had been dilated to 5cm for several days, and finally just requested that my midwife break my water at 38 weeks and 5 days. Basically, I got impatient. The whole process lasted about 16 hours and, despite the fact that I wasn't in any pain at all until it was time to push, once we got to that stage, it was miserable. My daughter's head wasn't anterior (facing down, as it's supposed to be) or posterior (facing up), but rather it was sideways. This required my midwife to twist her a bit with each contraction for...I don't know how long. It seemed like forever. I think it was realistically a few hours. But regardless, it was terrible. I can't help but wonder if this would not have happened if I had simply let nature take its course.
So this time around, I am praying that things will happen on their own, as they were intended to do. Please join me in praying that this baby will arrive before my appointment tomorrow morning. And if God chooses for the baby NOT to arrive by then, then pray that I will have the wisdom to make a wise decision concerning Wednesday's unfoldings.
Hope you all had a great weekend!
I realize this whole thing sounds absurd to most people considering that MANY of my friends opt to be induced every time. But when you're crazy like me and you want to do things naturally and let things go on their own...and then when things don't go on their own...it gets to be a little frustrating.
As some background for those who don't know....I was induced at 41 weeks with my first baby almost 5 years ago. I was told via ultrasound that he looked to be about 6 lbs and the doctor was concerned that he might not be getting enough nutrients from the cord, so they suggested induction. Being the naive, young, first-time-mom-to-be that I was....I assumed that was my only option.
My son was born about 10 hours later, after me being constrained to my hospital bed and enduring several hours of extremely strong contractions, at a beautiful weight of 7 lbs, 6 oz. Thus began my realization that technology is not always all that it's cracked up to be.
My second child was born 14 months later and came all on her own at 41 weeks and 1 day. Her labor and delivery was beautiful! I labored in (and out of) the tub for several hours and she arrived 7 hours after I arrived at the hospital birthing center. My midwife was FANTASTIC and, regardless of the fact that my daughter's heartrate dropped slightly with each contraction, the midwives thankfully allowed me to be closely monitored and did NOT send me to c-section as many doctors would have.
My third child followed 18 months after my second. I had weeks of irregular contractions (not unlike this pregnancy), had been dilated to 5cm for several days, and finally just requested that my midwife break my water at 38 weeks and 5 days. Basically, I got impatient. The whole process lasted about 16 hours and, despite the fact that I wasn't in any pain at all until it was time to push, once we got to that stage, it was miserable. My daughter's head wasn't anterior (facing down, as it's supposed to be) or posterior (facing up), but rather it was sideways. This required my midwife to twist her a bit with each contraction for...I don't know how long. It seemed like forever. I think it was realistically a few hours. But regardless, it was terrible. I can't help but wonder if this would not have happened if I had simply let nature take its course.
So this time around, I am praying that things will happen on their own, as they were intended to do. Please join me in praying that this baby will arrive before my appointment tomorrow morning. And if God chooses for the baby NOT to arrive by then, then pray that I will have the wisdom to make a wise decision concerning Wednesday's unfoldings.
Hope you all had a great weekend!
Saturday, September 26, 2009
People Are Calling
When my phone rings more than 3 times a day, I know there must be a reason. Apparently when one is well past their due date and misses one measly day of posting on their blog, said person's phone begins to ring off the hook. With that assumption in mind, I'm going to say that several of you are interested in what's going on.
I wish I had a good answer for you, but the truth is....there is nothing going on.
I had an appointment with another non-stress test yesterday. (I think it was my fourth non-stress test in the past two weeks.) No major news to report. I have another appointment on Tuesday if baby is not here by then. Wednesday is my 42-week marker and since I'm not really comfortable going beyond that date, I think I can safely say that the baby WILL arrive in the month of September. (Sorry, Mom!)
BUT, please join with me in praying that an induction will not be necessary and that our little one will be happy to come into the world all on its own accord before that date. And puh-lease, people, trust me when I say that I WILL update this blog as soon as possible after the baby is born. :)
Have a great weekend, everybody!
I wish I had a good answer for you, but the truth is....there is nothing going on.
I had an appointment with another non-stress test yesterday. (I think it was my fourth non-stress test in the past two weeks.) No major news to report. I have another appointment on Tuesday if baby is not here by then. Wednesday is my 42-week marker and since I'm not really comfortable going beyond that date, I think I can safely say that the baby WILL arrive in the month of September. (Sorry, Mom!)
BUT, please join with me in praying that an induction will not be necessary and that our little one will be happy to come into the world all on its own accord before that date. And puh-lease, people, trust me when I say that I WILL update this blog as soon as possible after the baby is born. :)
Have a great weekend, everybody!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Renewed
I feel good today. In fact, I feel great today.
Still no baby, but for the moment, I am totally content with that.
Last night, I only had to get up to go to the bathroom once. ONE TIME! Can you believe it? To top that off, I actually slept the entire time from 10pm until almost 8am. I don't think I've slept like that in weeks. I know that this is nothing short of a great blessing from the Lord. There is absolutely no reason that a woman who is 41 weeks pregnant should sleep that well. Many of you have been telling me that you've been praying for me and I can really feel the prayers right now. As silly as it seems, I have not been praying for rest. I've been praying for the baby to just come. And despite the fact that the Lord has chosen for that not to happen yet, I am feeling so blessed today. So refreshed. So renewed.
As far as how things are going....progress is being made and my contractions have become increasingly strong when they do come, but they have not brought forth the child of my womb just yet. :) I have what will likely be a final appointment tomorrow, at which time my midwife and I will discuss my options for bringing this child into the world. I am still praying that that appointment will not come and that the baby will come on its own before then, BUT if God's timing is later than that, I am confident that He is in control. My midwife doesn't really like to let her patients deliver past 41 weeks, but I think I've talked her into letting me wait until Monday, which would be 41 weeks and 4 days.
I continue to covet your prayers and encouragement, but know that the Lord has been so good to me and has renewed my strength in this time of waiting!
"Those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles; They will run and not get tired; They will walk and not become weary." (Isaiah 40.31)
Still no baby, but for the moment, I am totally content with that.
Last night, I only had to get up to go to the bathroom once. ONE TIME! Can you believe it? To top that off, I actually slept the entire time from 10pm until almost 8am. I don't think I've slept like that in weeks. I know that this is nothing short of a great blessing from the Lord. There is absolutely no reason that a woman who is 41 weeks pregnant should sleep that well. Many of you have been telling me that you've been praying for me and I can really feel the prayers right now. As silly as it seems, I have not been praying for rest. I've been praying for the baby to just come. And despite the fact that the Lord has chosen for that not to happen yet, I am feeling so blessed today. So refreshed. So renewed.
As far as how things are going....progress is being made and my contractions have become increasingly strong when they do come, but they have not brought forth the child of my womb just yet. :) I have what will likely be a final appointment tomorrow, at which time my midwife and I will discuss my options for bringing this child into the world. I am still praying that that appointment will not come and that the baby will come on its own before then, BUT if God's timing is later than that, I am confident that He is in control. My midwife doesn't really like to let her patients deliver past 41 weeks, but I think I've talked her into letting me wait until Monday, which would be 41 weeks and 4 days.
I continue to covet your prayers and encouragement, but know that the Lord has been so good to me and has renewed my strength in this time of waiting!
"Those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles; They will run and not get tired; They will walk and not become weary." (Isaiah 40.31)
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
More Alive Than Ever Before
I have to be honest. I find it slightly odd that it still affects me as much as it does. I mean, I hardly even knew her.
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It's been a whole year since Caden's reunion with the Lord and I still find myself randomly bursting into tears while driving down the interstate or desperately searching for a Kleenex during the worship service.
I still vividly remember the conversation I had with Cari that morning. We had scheduled pictures to be taken of Cari and Caden the following week. They were going to be a birthday present for Andy. We talked about the location, the timing, and who I would coerce into watching my kids. She was excited. I was excited. And Caden was sick. I probably wouldn't see them the next morning at Bible study due to Caden not feeling well, but we'd see each other on Sunday.
Oh, sweet Caden.
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Even though we had attended the same church for several years, Cari and I were never really close. Not that we were intentionally distant, but our friendship just hadn't really blossomed yet.
I think I first met Cari in the nursery at church. We were both pregnant at the same time (me with Reagan and her with Caden) and we chatted about baby names, January due dates, and parenting tactics as we watched the other babies. Cari had the most adorable pregnant belly and she hated when I told her that. I knew she felt miserable, but she was still adorable.
When Caden arrived in January, she was born with a ridiculous amount of hair. I don't remember much else about her arrival, but her hair was a defining characteristic that I'll never forget.
Cari and I went to the zoo once together last spring with our kids. A bird pooped on Cari's shoulder. She took a picture with her phone and sent it to Andy. It was hilarious. And if you don't believe me, there's proof. Cari cleaned up the mess with a baby wipe and we discussed how well prepared mothers are for life's unexpected adventures. Caden was probably too little to care or even take note of where we were or what was going on, but she smiled a lot.
She was always smiling.
As Caden grew, I enjoyed working in the nursery once a month and particularly loved holding Caden. She was a cuddler, something none of my children so far have been, and I enjoyed holding a baby who was content to just sit. She usually fell asleep. I usually rocked.
One week Cari came to playgroup at Cristi's house. Cari tells the story way better than me, but let's just say we had a pretty hilarious pacifier episode involving Caden, Reagan, and an identical "missing" pacifier.
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Since I had just spoken with Cari that morning, the email came as a total shock. Not that it would have been any less shocking had I not just spoken with Cari, but the effect seemed magnified to me. I read and reread it. Several times. I just couldn't believe what I was reading. It was like someone was playing a cruel joke on me. Except nobody would joke about this. Nobody.
Daniel was in the living room watching tv and I called him over to where I was sitting at the computer. Unable to speak, I pointed to the screen. And the tears began to flow.
I don't know how many times in the past I've cried for another person's loss, but if there were many times before this one...this was the worst. I buried my face into Daniel's side and sobbed for what seemed like forever.
I just couldn't believe it.
As the next few days passed, I didn't know what I should do. I wasn't that close with Cari, so I didn't want to bother her by calling, but I wanted her to know I cared. So I left a card with the office staff for her and Andy. And I prayed for them. Constantly. I cried when I looked at my own children, not being able to even imagine mourning the loss of one of them.
At Caden's celebration service, I was trying to hold it together but was failing miserably. It just wasn't right. Caskets shouldn't even come that small. As I tried to pull my eyes away from the picture slideshow on the screen, I couldn't help but be reminded that those pictures we had planned would now never happen.
Even though I knew it was ridiculous, I felt like it was somehow my fault. I should have scheduled them earlier. It would have been such a beautiful gift for them.
I tried to choke back the tears and be strong for Cari and her family as I neared the family line. But when it was mentioned twice to me by family members that it was "too bad we wouldn't be able to get those pictures now", I couldn't hold it in any longer. By the time I reached Cari, I was a mess.
I couldn't manage to say anything and wouldn't have known what to say anyway, so I just hugged her tightly. She hugged back even tighter and then asked how I was doing.
She asked how I was doing. What is wrong with this woman? I thought.
I had to leave the ceremony with Reagan about halfway through, but what I distinctly remember what seeing Andy and Cari in the front row worshiping the Lord with all their hearts. I didn't know how they were doing it, but I thanked the Lord that they were able to do so.
After the ceremony ended, I offered to help with getting the food set up to keep my mind off of why I was really there. I didn't feel like I was close enough with the family to go to the cemetery for the burial but I wanted to stick around for a while.
When everyone returned and the eating began, it was the strangest atmosphere. Everyone was laughing, talking, joking, and carrying on in good spirits. Yes, there were tears. But it truly was a celebration of Caden's life and of her homecoming with Jesus.
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For months, all I could do when I saw Cari was hug her. I never knew what to say and I honestly felt guilty for having my own children still here with me. It didn't seem fair that I had three perfectly healthy children on earth and her only child was now in heaven.
Six weeks after Caden's passing, Cari told me they had just found out she was pregnant. Six weeks pregnant. I couldn't believe it. I blabbered on about some conversation I had just had with a mutual friend and how I had wondered if she was pregnant because of a comment she had left on a blog before finally realizing that I hadn't even congratulated her! I'm such a dork sometimes. I was so happy for them, but the emotions were so mixed for everyone. Mourning the loss of a child and rejoicing over the conception of another is not something that often comes simultaneously in one's life.
Cari came along to a photo shoot shortly after that to watch my kids while I worked. I had hoped they would forget that she had previously always had a baby with her because Daniel and I simply didn't know how or if we should explain to our kids about Caden's passing. My worst nightmare came true when Cari got into the van and my son asked, "Where's your baby?" I could tell Cari was somewhat uncomfortable with the question (and rightfully so), but she very casually answered, "She went to live with Jesus." and we both cried a little. I felt like an idiot who should have duct-taped her kids' mouths closed that morning. But Cari understood. And thankfully that answer was sufficient for a 2 and 3 year old.
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The months have passed and my children have slowly begun to understand that, while Andy and Cari (and even baby Rigg) are still here on earth in their own house, Caden spends her days playing with Jesus on streets on gold. They ask about her often when I browse Cari's blog and they catch glimpses of the picture of Caden on the sidebar. It's getting easier for me to say, "Yes, Caden is with Jesus now" and they seem comfortable with that. They are now old enough to comprehend that she "got very sick" (as I tell them) and then went to live with Jesus instead of with her mommy and daddy. But that they will all see each other in heaven again someday.
Rigg was born in June and has been loved and cherished by everyone who has met him. He has very clearly helped Andy and Cari to bear the pain of losing a child, not by taking her place, but by adding joy to their lives and reassuring them that their Savior does indeed love and care for them. Even in situations we may not understand.
Cari and I have grown closer as I have shared in this pain with her over the past year. She and Andy stand as a "Christian rock" to many, but - as they should - they credit it all to the Lord. He is truly what is holding them together and He is who will sustain them in the months and years to follow.
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Just last week, Cari mentioned a quote she had recently read by D.L. Moody. I think it's absolutely beautiful and couldn't be more truthful:
“Soon you will read in the newspaper that I am dead. Don’t believe it for a moment. I will be more alive than ever before.”
Praise God that we can know that Caden now spends her every moment with our Savior in heaven! She is NOT dead. She is now more alive than ever before.
"The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord." - Job 1.21
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It's been a whole year since Caden's reunion with the Lord and I still find myself randomly bursting into tears while driving down the interstate or desperately searching for a Kleenex during the worship service.
I still vividly remember the conversation I had with Cari that morning. We had scheduled pictures to be taken of Cari and Caden the following week. They were going to be a birthday present for Andy. We talked about the location, the timing, and who I would coerce into watching my kids. She was excited. I was excited. And Caden was sick. I probably wouldn't see them the next morning at Bible study due to Caden not feeling well, but we'd see each other on Sunday.
Oh, sweet Caden.
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Even though we had attended the same church for several years, Cari and I were never really close. Not that we were intentionally distant, but our friendship just hadn't really blossomed yet.
I think I first met Cari in the nursery at church. We were both pregnant at the same time (me with Reagan and her with Caden) and we chatted about baby names, January due dates, and parenting tactics as we watched the other babies. Cari had the most adorable pregnant belly and she hated when I told her that. I knew she felt miserable, but she was still adorable.
When Caden arrived in January, she was born with a ridiculous amount of hair. I don't remember much else about her arrival, but her hair was a defining characteristic that I'll never forget.
Cari and I went to the zoo once together last spring with our kids. A bird pooped on Cari's shoulder. She took a picture with her phone and sent it to Andy. It was hilarious. And if you don't believe me, there's proof. Cari cleaned up the mess with a baby wipe and we discussed how well prepared mothers are for life's unexpected adventures. Caden was probably too little to care or even take note of where we were or what was going on, but she smiled a lot.
She was always smiling.
As Caden grew, I enjoyed working in the nursery once a month and particularly loved holding Caden. She was a cuddler, something none of my children so far have been, and I enjoyed holding a baby who was content to just sit. She usually fell asleep. I usually rocked.
One week Cari came to playgroup at Cristi's house. Cari tells the story way better than me, but let's just say we had a pretty hilarious pacifier episode involving Caden, Reagan, and an identical "missing" pacifier.
---------------------------------------------------
Since I had just spoken with Cari that morning, the email came as a total shock. Not that it would have been any less shocking had I not just spoken with Cari, but the effect seemed magnified to me. I read and reread it. Several times. I just couldn't believe what I was reading. It was like someone was playing a cruel joke on me. Except nobody would joke about this. Nobody.
Daniel was in the living room watching tv and I called him over to where I was sitting at the computer. Unable to speak, I pointed to the screen. And the tears began to flow.
I don't know how many times in the past I've cried for another person's loss, but if there were many times before this one...this was the worst. I buried my face into Daniel's side and sobbed for what seemed like forever.
I just couldn't believe it.
As the next few days passed, I didn't know what I should do. I wasn't that close with Cari, so I didn't want to bother her by calling, but I wanted her to know I cared. So I left a card with the office staff for her and Andy. And I prayed for them. Constantly. I cried when I looked at my own children, not being able to even imagine mourning the loss of one of them.
At Caden's celebration service, I was trying to hold it together but was failing miserably. It just wasn't right. Caskets shouldn't even come that small. As I tried to pull my eyes away from the picture slideshow on the screen, I couldn't help but be reminded that those pictures we had planned would now never happen.
Even though I knew it was ridiculous, I felt like it was somehow my fault. I should have scheduled them earlier. It would have been such a beautiful gift for them.
I tried to choke back the tears and be strong for Cari and her family as I neared the family line. But when it was mentioned twice to me by family members that it was "too bad we wouldn't be able to get those pictures now", I couldn't hold it in any longer. By the time I reached Cari, I was a mess.
I couldn't manage to say anything and wouldn't have known what to say anyway, so I just hugged her tightly. She hugged back even tighter and then asked how I was doing.
She asked how I was doing. What is wrong with this woman? I thought.
I had to leave the ceremony with Reagan about halfway through, but what I distinctly remember what seeing Andy and Cari in the front row worshiping the Lord with all their hearts. I didn't know how they were doing it, but I thanked the Lord that they were able to do so.
After the ceremony ended, I offered to help with getting the food set up to keep my mind off of why I was really there. I didn't feel like I was close enough with the family to go to the cemetery for the burial but I wanted to stick around for a while.
When everyone returned and the eating began, it was the strangest atmosphere. Everyone was laughing, talking, joking, and carrying on in good spirits. Yes, there were tears. But it truly was a celebration of Caden's life and of her homecoming with Jesus.
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For months, all I could do when I saw Cari was hug her. I never knew what to say and I honestly felt guilty for having my own children still here with me. It didn't seem fair that I had three perfectly healthy children on earth and her only child was now in heaven.
Six weeks after Caden's passing, Cari told me they had just found out she was pregnant. Six weeks pregnant. I couldn't believe it. I blabbered on about some conversation I had just had with a mutual friend and how I had wondered if she was pregnant because of a comment she had left on a blog before finally realizing that I hadn't even congratulated her! I'm such a dork sometimes. I was so happy for them, but the emotions were so mixed for everyone. Mourning the loss of a child and rejoicing over the conception of another is not something that often comes simultaneously in one's life.
Cari came along to a photo shoot shortly after that to watch my kids while I worked. I had hoped they would forget that she had previously always had a baby with her because Daniel and I simply didn't know how or if we should explain to our kids about Caden's passing. My worst nightmare came true when Cari got into the van and my son asked, "Where's your baby?" I could tell Cari was somewhat uncomfortable with the question (and rightfully so), but she very casually answered, "She went to live with Jesus." and we both cried a little. I felt like an idiot who should have duct-taped her kids' mouths closed that morning. But Cari understood. And thankfully that answer was sufficient for a 2 and 3 year old.
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The months have passed and my children have slowly begun to understand that, while Andy and Cari (and even baby Rigg) are still here on earth in their own house, Caden spends her days playing with Jesus on streets on gold. They ask about her often when I browse Cari's blog and they catch glimpses of the picture of Caden on the sidebar. It's getting easier for me to say, "Yes, Caden is with Jesus now" and they seem comfortable with that. They are now old enough to comprehend that she "got very sick" (as I tell them) and then went to live with Jesus instead of with her mommy and daddy. But that they will all see each other in heaven again someday.
Rigg was born in June and has been loved and cherished by everyone who has met him. He has very clearly helped Andy and Cari to bear the pain of losing a child, not by taking her place, but by adding joy to their lives and reassuring them that their Savior does indeed love and care for them. Even in situations we may not understand.
Cari and I have grown closer as I have shared in this pain with her over the past year. She and Andy stand as a "Christian rock" to many, but - as they should - they credit it all to the Lord. He is truly what is holding them together and He is who will sustain them in the months and years to follow.
---------------------------------------------------
Just last week, Cari mentioned a quote she had recently read by D.L. Moody. I think it's absolutely beautiful and couldn't be more truthful:
“Soon you will read in the newspaper that I am dead. Don’t believe it for a moment. I will be more alive than ever before.”
Praise God that we can know that Caden now spends her every moment with our Savior in heaven! She is NOT dead. She is now more alive than ever before.
"The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord." - Job 1.21
Discouraged
I admit it. I'm feeling pretty discouraged these days. As much as I know that babies DO generally come when they are ready, I'm getting fairly frustrated with this one. Last Monday, I was nearly certain I was in labor and would soon deliver my baby into my arms. Then yesterday, I was even more certain as my contractions were closer and stronger than last week and seemed to be gaining in intensity. But then, after we put the kids to bed....
*ker-SPLAT*
Gone. Done. Over. Nothing noteable to speak of.
I'm trying to be patient. I'm trying to do what's best for my baby and myself. But I'm getting tired. Oh-so-tired. I know I'm not even a week past my due date, but for some reason I thought surely a FOURTH BABY would arrive at least on time, if not early. Perhaps I just set my expectations too high.
In the meantime, I am trying. To not be so emotional. To treat my children with kindness even when they are running around the house squealing. To feed my family three meals a day. To keep my mind on things that are positive. To remember that all children are a blessing, even when they don't arrive when I want them to. To sleep. To keep up with the laundry. And to be thankful.
".....be patient with everyone...." (1 Thessalonians 5.14)
*ker-SPLAT*
Gone. Done. Over. Nothing noteable to speak of.
I'm trying to be patient. I'm trying to do what's best for my baby and myself. But I'm getting tired. Oh-so-tired. I know I'm not even a week past my due date, but for some reason I thought surely a FOURTH BABY would arrive at least on time, if not early. Perhaps I just set my expectations too high.
In the meantime, I am trying. To not be so emotional. To treat my children with kindness even when they are running around the house squealing. To feed my family three meals a day. To keep my mind on things that are positive. To remember that all children are a blessing, even when they don't arrive when I want them to. To sleep. To keep up with the laundry. And to be thankful.
".....be patient with everyone...." (1 Thessalonians 5.14)
Monday, September 21, 2009
Happy Birthday, Baby Girl!
I know there are only a few more days that you will be my baby, so I'll call you that as long as I can!
Happy Birthday, Reagan!
Happy Birthday, Reagan!
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Nope
I'm not doing it any more. I'm not even going to say, "I hope my baby comes on _____day," because, as can be noted, that obviously is not helping the situation.
It is now Saturday, the 19th. It's two days past my due date and my little one is sitting comfortably in my womb. My doctor has informed me that my womb is "just too comfortable" for him/her. I told her that I wasn't sure there was much I could do about that.
My second non-stress test went well yesterday. For some reason, I sat in that darn room w/ the monitor attached to my stomach for nearly 2 HOURS. But I didn't care. I was reading. And it was quiet. And someone else was watching my kids.
I know, I'm a horrible mother.
After my appointment, I scheduled my next non-stress test for next Wednesday and went on my merry way. My kids got a "snack lunch" today because I was exhausted and we got home right around naptime. Honeycomb and iced tea.
I know. Just pretend I never told you.
I took Reagan in to see her pediatrician this afternoon since she has been extra whiny, clingy, and sniffly lately. I suspected an ear infection and wanted to check on things before the weekend hit and (hopefully) my labor. She was fine. Teething, but fine. And for once, I was actually glad to have paid the $20 co-pay for no reason. It eased my mind and that was most important today.
As we were leaving, I had *the talk* with the nurses in the office.
"Oh my!"
"Yesterday?"
"Are they going to induce you?"
"I bet you're so ready!"
I have to admit, I'm getting tired of it. And I know that if I make it through tomorrow, I'll get it at church too. I know I should just be grateful that my little one is alive and well in there (and I am grateful), but...you know....I'm tired. With all the trips to the bathroom, nighttime contractions, my lack of ability to get comfortable with this giant....BELLY....thing, and my children waking me in the night, I'm hardly sleeping much anymore.
On the upside, I read an entire 550-page book in 4 days this week. I don't think that's happened since, like....ever. I credit most of that to several hours at the doctor's office and my husband's graciousness in allowing me some extra sitting time while he takes care of the kids in the evening. And if you've never read "The Oath" by Frank Peretti, I recommend it. I read it way back in middle school but it was nice to read it again.
But back to the baby....
Your continued prayers are appreciated. (Even coveted, I might add.) And, as always....I will keep you posted.
It is now Saturday, the 19th. It's two days past my due date and my little one is sitting comfortably in my womb. My doctor has informed me that my womb is "just too comfortable" for him/her. I told her that I wasn't sure there was much I could do about that.
My second non-stress test went well yesterday. For some reason, I sat in that darn room w/ the monitor attached to my stomach for nearly 2 HOURS. But I didn't care. I was reading. And it was quiet. And someone else was watching my kids.
I know, I'm a horrible mother.
After my appointment, I scheduled my next non-stress test for next Wednesday and went on my merry way. My kids got a "snack lunch" today because I was exhausted and we got home right around naptime. Honeycomb and iced tea.
I know. Just pretend I never told you.
I took Reagan in to see her pediatrician this afternoon since she has been extra whiny, clingy, and sniffly lately. I suspected an ear infection and wanted to check on things before the weekend hit and (hopefully) my labor. She was fine. Teething, but fine. And for once, I was actually glad to have paid the $20 co-pay for no reason. It eased my mind and that was most important today.
As we were leaving, I had *the talk* with the nurses in the office.
"Oh my!"
"Yesterday?"
"Are they going to induce you?"
"I bet you're so ready!"
I have to admit, I'm getting tired of it. And I know that if I make it through tomorrow, I'll get it at church too. I know I should just be grateful that my little one is alive and well in there (and I am grateful), but...you know....I'm tired. With all the trips to the bathroom, nighttime contractions, my lack of ability to get comfortable with this giant....BELLY....thing, and my children waking me in the night, I'm hardly sleeping much anymore.
On the upside, I read an entire 550-page book in 4 days this week. I don't think that's happened since, like....ever. I credit most of that to several hours at the doctor's office and my husband's graciousness in allowing me some extra sitting time while he takes care of the kids in the evening. And if you've never read "The Oath" by Frank Peretti, I recommend it. I read it way back in middle school but it was nice to read it again.
But back to the baby....
Your continued prayers are appreciated. (Even coveted, I might add.) And, as always....I will keep you posted.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Finally Friday...
My sister-in-law called yesterday afternoon to "check in" on me since I hadn't posted a blog entry yesterday. Well, rest assured, everyone. There is no baby yet. But you all will be the first to know when there is.
Well okay....you'll probably be like....the 20th to know. But whatever. Quit whining.
I can't remember if I mentioned this last week or not, but....I've always gone into labor on a Friday. I know I'm getting restless. And I know that the fact that I've always labored on Fridays has absolutely NO bearing whatsoever on when this child will arrive, BUT....
I sure do hope it's today.
Happy Friday, everyone!
Well okay....you'll probably be like....the 20th to know. But whatever. Quit whining.
I can't remember if I mentioned this last week or not, but....I've always gone into labor on a Friday. I know I'm getting restless. And I know that the fact that I've always labored on Fridays has absolutely NO bearing whatsoever on when this child will arrive, BUT....
I sure do hope it's today.
Happy Friday, everyone!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
My Goodness, Has It Really Been Six Days??
Sorry for the lack of updates. There is still no baby on this end and I've basically been an emotional basketcase for days now. I'm not really sleeping anymore (up every 30-45 minutes) and am therefore completely exhausted. I have no motivation to cook, clean, or do much of anything else. It's probably just an attitude problem that I should take care of, but I also know that I'm physically and emotionally tired and I don't want to wear myself out.
I never really expected to make it to 40 weeks with my FOURTH pregnancy, but here I am....39 weeks and 6 days. And still no baby. I have an appointment today for a non-stress test as well as an ultrasound to check on things. After I scheduled my appointment, I thought to myself....I probably should have just declined the ultrasound. At 40 weeks of pregnancy, ultrasounds are EXTREMELY inaccurate, specifically when determining the size of the baby. Large weight estimates are oftentimes a reason to urge labor induction (regardless of the fact that ultrasounds usually estimate weight incorrectly and can be up to THREE POUNDS off) and considering I was measuring a bit large a few weeks ago, I'm sure that would add to any "large estimates" via ultrasound, if that happened. So I'm praying that the ultrasound tech will be wise in her estimate, that my doctor and midwife will continue to be supportive of waiting things out if a large weight estimate becomes the only indication of "concern", and that I will be wise in discussing my options with them.
If all goes well, I plan to continue waiting on baby's timing (really, the Lord's timing) and attempting to be patient in the process.
Thank you to those of you who have been praying for me and thinking of me these past few weeks. I appreciate it!
I never really expected to make it to 40 weeks with my FOURTH pregnancy, but here I am....39 weeks and 6 days. And still no baby. I have an appointment today for a non-stress test as well as an ultrasound to check on things. After I scheduled my appointment, I thought to myself....I probably should have just declined the ultrasound. At 40 weeks of pregnancy, ultrasounds are EXTREMELY inaccurate, specifically when determining the size of the baby. Large weight estimates are oftentimes a reason to urge labor induction (regardless of the fact that ultrasounds usually estimate weight incorrectly and can be up to THREE POUNDS off) and considering I was measuring a bit large a few weeks ago, I'm sure that would add to any "large estimates" via ultrasound, if that happened. So I'm praying that the ultrasound tech will be wise in her estimate, that my doctor and midwife will continue to be supportive of waiting things out if a large weight estimate becomes the only indication of "concern", and that I will be wise in discussing my options with them.
If all goes well, I plan to continue waiting on baby's timing (really, the Lord's timing) and attempting to be patient in the process.
Thank you to those of you who have been praying for me and thinking of me these past few weeks. I appreciate it!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Get Your Finances In Line In 2009: August Recap
Well, lots of things have conspired since my last update. Or so it seems. I'm currently EXCEEDINGLY pregnant and feeling very exhausted.
Cooking has been on the back-burner as of late since my energy level has dropped through the floor, it seems. In fact, I bought about 6 boxes of cereal while I was out running errands this weekend and informed my husband that we could just live on that until the baby comes. He seems skeptical and I can't figure out why.
Seriously though, we've been getting take-out more often than usual and my grocery trips have been far less organized (and coupon-involved) lately, so our food budget was a bit higher than normal last month.
Also, we just found out that my cousin is getting married in March! I'm SO excited to make a trip down to Texas as I haven't been there since I was a child! My cousin also requested that 3 of our 4 children be in the wedding. While we anticipate that that will be an interesting added bit of work, my parents will be there as well so I'm sure we can manage all the wedding festivities and kiddos with their help. Since Texas is a 2-day trip each direction with our munchkins, we're looking at some hotel stays and lots of meals on the road, so our trip savings is starting now. We're so grateful that the Lord has allowed us to reach so many of our financial goals in the past few years so we are able to plan and save up for this trip.
Alright, so....jibber jabber....here's the new, updated version of our goals:
Goal #1: Save up and pay CASH for our 5-day vacation to Mackinac Island in June! :) ---- 100% completed ----
REVISED GOAL #1: Save up and pay CASH for our trip to Texas next March. ---- This goal is brand spanking new and we plan to start stashing away for this in September. ----
Goal #2: Fully fund our 6 month emergency fund and put into a money market account to be left UNTOUCHED unless there is an actual emergency. ---- 56.2% completed!! Not a huge gain from last month, but September is an extra check month for my husband, so we're hoping to make it to 70% by the end of this month! We'll see how things go with the new baby.... ----
Goal #3: Save for my husband to get a "new" (that means used) car. ---- After some adjustments by my husband last month, the car is currently running well, so this is not high on the priority list right now. ----
Goal #4: Raise retirement contributions to 12% (with a 4% match).
Goal #5: Open a money market account for each of our children.
Goal #6: Begin paying extra principal on our mortgage.
Goal #7: Establish a will and testament. ---- Still thinking about working on this... ----
Goal #8: Get disability insurance for both my husband and me. ---- I really meant to have my husband do this paperwork over Labor Day Weekend. But then I forgot. Shame on me. ----
We're so excited to be reaching our financial goals for the glory of Christ and are glad so many of you enjoy hearing our story. We hope you find it to be encouraging and motivating in your own lives!
Cooking has been on the back-burner as of late since my energy level has dropped through the floor, it seems. In fact, I bought about 6 boxes of cereal while I was out running errands this weekend and informed my husband that we could just live on that until the baby comes. He seems skeptical and I can't figure out why.
Seriously though, we've been getting take-out more often than usual and my grocery trips have been far less organized (and coupon-involved) lately, so our food budget was a bit higher than normal last month.
Also, we just found out that my cousin is getting married in March! I'm SO excited to make a trip down to Texas as I haven't been there since I was a child! My cousin also requested that 3 of our 4 children be in the wedding. While we anticipate that that will be an interesting added bit of work, my parents will be there as well so I'm sure we can manage all the wedding festivities and kiddos with their help. Since Texas is a 2-day trip each direction with our munchkins, we're looking at some hotel stays and lots of meals on the road, so our trip savings is starting now. We're so grateful that the Lord has allowed us to reach so many of our financial goals in the past few years so we are able to plan and save up for this trip.
Alright, so....jibber jabber....here's the new, updated version of our goals:
Goal #1: Save up and pay CASH for our 5-day vacation to Mackinac Island in June! :) ---- 100% completed ----
REVISED GOAL #1: Save up and pay CASH for our trip to Texas next March. ---- This goal is brand spanking new and we plan to start stashing away for this in September. ----
Goal #2: Fully fund our 6 month emergency fund and put into a money market account to be left UNTOUCHED unless there is an actual emergency. ---- 56.2% completed!! Not a huge gain from last month, but September is an extra check month for my husband, so we're hoping to make it to 70% by the end of this month! We'll see how things go with the new baby.... ----
Goal #3: Save for my husband to get a "new" (that means used) car. ---- After some adjustments by my husband last month, the car is currently running well, so this is not high on the priority list right now. ----
Goal #4: Raise retirement contributions to 12% (with a 4% match).
Goal #5: Open a money market account for each of our children.
Goal #6: Begin paying extra principal on our mortgage.
Goal #7: Establish a will and testament. ---- Still thinking about working on this... ----
Goal #8: Get disability insurance for both my husband and me. ---- I really meant to have my husband do this paperwork over Labor Day Weekend. But then I forgot. Shame on me. ----
We're so excited to be reaching our financial goals for the glory of Christ and are glad so many of you enjoy hearing our story. We hope you find it to be encouraging and motivating in your own lives!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
A Very Un-Laboring Labor Day
Yes, it's true. I did no laboring on Labor Day.
With the exception of my husband being home from work, yesterday was a pretty average day around here. I did my normal Monday laundry and cleaning. The kids had oatmeal for breakfast and leftovers for lunch. My husband and I took turns napping (since we both appreciate a bit of extra sleep these days!) and I contemplated the upcoming arrival of our new little one.
Chick-Fil-A was offering a free chicken sandwich to anyone who wore their favorite sports team apparel, so we threw on our Colts t-shirts and headed over there for dinner. The kids played in the play place and then I grabbed a few groceries and miscellaneous items at Meijer on the way home.
Like I said, fairly average. And definitely no labor involved. At least, not the kind of labor I was hoping for.
I had read online that fresh pineapple can induce contractions (although I'm pretty skeptical of all natural induction methods and truly believe that babies come when they are good and ready), so I grabbed a pineapple while I was at the store. After we put the kids to bed, I chopped it up and grabbed myself a plate. I got through about 3 pieces of it before my tongue was on fire. I think it was probably due more to the limeade I had drank just before the consumption of the pineapple than the pineapple itself, but either way...I was done at 3 pieces.
Obviously I have nothing to report this morning, so my guess is that either:
1) pineapple must be consumed in LARGE quantities, or
2) pineapple works just as well as every other natural induction method (i.e. not at all).
Tomorrow is my last and final "scheduled delivery date" (tentatively scheduled by me and for me). I guess having a baby on 09/09/09 would be kind of cool. Maybe I would actually be able to remember this one's birthday when asked! Then again, I'll have four children within 5 years of each other, so.....I probably still wouldn't remember.
Daniel said that 9/11 could be another day to add to the "scheduled delivery date" calendar, but I just can't imagine my poor child having to share that holiday with such a terrible tragic anniversary of our nation's history. I think he mostly just meant that it would be memorable, much like 09/09/09, but I'd prefer to skip over that day altogether.
But we'll see.
As far as preparing for the baby in general, Daniel and I both still feel like the whole thing is kind of surreal. I imagine it will seem more real once the baby actually arrives. At least, I hope so! :) I've been remembering random odds and ends that we need and have been picking those up as I'm out running around. I'm sure there's something I'm forgetting, but for the most part, I think we finally have everything that I've been meaning to get: baby Tylenol, gas drops, diaper rash cream, lanolin, etc. You know.....all those little things that tend to fall between the cracks while preparing for baby but suddenly seem desperately important once the baby arrives. At least, that's how it is for me.
In case you're wondering, I'm still planning to blog about how I made my own nursing pads and how we redid our kids' bedrooms on a budget. It's just...taking longer than anticipated. But sit tight. It is coming! Eventually....
I hope you all had a great (extra-long) weekend!
With the exception of my husband being home from work, yesterday was a pretty average day around here. I did my normal Monday laundry and cleaning. The kids had oatmeal for breakfast and leftovers for lunch. My husband and I took turns napping (since we both appreciate a bit of extra sleep these days!) and I contemplated the upcoming arrival of our new little one.
Chick-Fil-A was offering a free chicken sandwich to anyone who wore their favorite sports team apparel, so we threw on our Colts t-shirts and headed over there for dinner. The kids played in the play place and then I grabbed a few groceries and miscellaneous items at Meijer on the way home.
Like I said, fairly average. And definitely no labor involved. At least, not the kind of labor I was hoping for.
I had read online that fresh pineapple can induce contractions (although I'm pretty skeptical of all natural induction methods and truly believe that babies come when they are good and ready), so I grabbed a pineapple while I was at the store. After we put the kids to bed, I chopped it up and grabbed myself a plate. I got through about 3 pieces of it before my tongue was on fire. I think it was probably due more to the limeade I had drank just before the consumption of the pineapple than the pineapple itself, but either way...I was done at 3 pieces.
Obviously I have nothing to report this morning, so my guess is that either:
1) pineapple must be consumed in LARGE quantities, or
2) pineapple works just as well as every other natural induction method (i.e. not at all).
Tomorrow is my last and final "scheduled delivery date" (tentatively scheduled by me and for me). I guess having a baby on 09/09/09 would be kind of cool. Maybe I would actually be able to remember this one's birthday when asked! Then again, I'll have four children within 5 years of each other, so.....I probably still wouldn't remember.
Daniel said that 9/11 could be another day to add to the "scheduled delivery date" calendar, but I just can't imagine my poor child having to share that holiday with such a terrible tragic anniversary of our nation's history. I think he mostly just meant that it would be memorable, much like 09/09/09, but I'd prefer to skip over that day altogether.
But we'll see.
As far as preparing for the baby in general, Daniel and I both still feel like the whole thing is kind of surreal. I imagine it will seem more real once the baby actually arrives. At least, I hope so! :) I've been remembering random odds and ends that we need and have been picking those up as I'm out running around. I'm sure there's something I'm forgetting, but for the most part, I think we finally have everything that I've been meaning to get: baby Tylenol, gas drops, diaper rash cream, lanolin, etc. You know.....all those little things that tend to fall between the cracks while preparing for baby but suddenly seem desperately important once the baby arrives. At least, that's how it is for me.
In case you're wondering, I'm still planning to blog about how I made my own nursing pads and how we redid our kids' bedrooms on a budget. It's just...taking longer than anticipated. But sit tight. It is coming! Eventually....
I hope you all had a great (extra-long) weekend!
Sunday, September 6, 2009
It's Sunday
I don't generally blog on Sunday, but today, since my family is outdoors playing in the sunshine and I'm exhausted due to my busy weekend thus far....I'm indoors and I'm blogging.
Get over it.
Yesterday felt like a crazy day for me even though I barely left the house. I was awakened shortly after 6.30am (thank you, girls) and suddenly felt the need to do TONS of laundry and clean all the bathrooms. (As a sidenote, I absolutely REFUSE to clean the bathrooms in this house one more time before this baby comes.) So I did just that. I did washed, dried, folded, and put away four loads of laundry. And cleaned the bathrooms. All while my husband napped. (He had worked an early morning shift.)
I had planned to go out and run some errands in the afternoon when my husband reminded me that we had a "End of Summer" party to attend. I decided to take a short nap instead. Well, that nap ended up being about an hour and a half and it was lovely.
Around 4.30p, we drove the 3-mile trek to my brother- and sister-in-law's house and enjoyed some very tasty food which was NOT prepared by me. It was great. We headed home a few hours later, sweaty kids in tow and headed for the tub. All three kids were washed, dried, dressed, brushed, and in bed by 8.30p. Whew!
Daniel and I sat down to watch I, Robot while he gave me a foot massage. I ate chocolate chips.
Hey...you know you do it too.
We both managed to make it through the whole movie and went to bed around 10.30p.
I have no idea what was going on with our children last night, but it seemed like nobody was sleeping. I don't recall them having much sugar at the party, but they must have had something because it seemed like there was a child in our room every 30 minutes for a good portion of the night. Of course, it's normal for me to be up that often....but definitely not normal for them. Eventually everyone got back to sleep and surprisingly slept until nearly 7.30a this morning.
I squeezed in a shower while Daniel made breakfast downstairs and we got to church -- *gasp* -- early.
I know. We're amazed too.
I only had to use the restroom twice in the 2 1/2 hours we were there, which was a miracle in and of itself. We had driven two vehicles so that after church I could run some errands.
I hate running errands. I was really ONLY running them for the SOLE purpose of "walking the baby out". Well, that and Daniel said we were out of eggs. So I made my way around the mall, Motherhood Maternity, Bed Bath and Beyond, Kohl's, JoAnn, Walmart and Meijer before I headed home late this afternoon.
Still no baby.
I decided that we could live on cereal until the baby comes, so I bought 3 large bags and 2 boxes of cereal as well as a few gallons of milk! Ok, I also bought a few other things (like eggs), but mainly I bought cereal.
I'm sorry. But cooking completely wears me out these days.
And speaking of cooking....it's now nearing 5.30p and I have no thoughts on dinner whatsoever. None.
We have two chicken breasts in the fridge that I'm sure will turn into something magically delicious (if my husband has anything to do with it), but I'm just not sure what exactly. Guess I should get on that....
Hope you all are enjoying a great long weekend! I'm looking forward to Daniel being home an extra day this weekend, although to be honest, I'm really hoping to have this baby soon.
But I'm sure you already knew I was going to say that. :)
Get over it.
Yesterday felt like a crazy day for me even though I barely left the house. I was awakened shortly after 6.30am (thank you, girls) and suddenly felt the need to do TONS of laundry and clean all the bathrooms. (As a sidenote, I absolutely REFUSE to clean the bathrooms in this house one more time before this baby comes.) So I did just that. I did washed, dried, folded, and put away four loads of laundry. And cleaned the bathrooms. All while my husband napped. (He had worked an early morning shift.)
I had planned to go out and run some errands in the afternoon when my husband reminded me that we had a "End of Summer" party to attend. I decided to take a short nap instead. Well, that nap ended up being about an hour and a half and it was lovely.
Around 4.30p, we drove the 3-mile trek to my brother- and sister-in-law's house and enjoyed some very tasty food which was NOT prepared by me. It was great. We headed home a few hours later, sweaty kids in tow and headed for the tub. All three kids were washed, dried, dressed, brushed, and in bed by 8.30p. Whew!
Daniel and I sat down to watch I, Robot while he gave me a foot massage. I ate chocolate chips.
Hey...you know you do it too.
We both managed to make it through the whole movie and went to bed around 10.30p.
I have no idea what was going on with our children last night, but it seemed like nobody was sleeping. I don't recall them having much sugar at the party, but they must have had something because it seemed like there was a child in our room every 30 minutes for a good portion of the night. Of course, it's normal for me to be up that often....but definitely not normal for them. Eventually everyone got back to sleep and surprisingly slept until nearly 7.30a this morning.
I squeezed in a shower while Daniel made breakfast downstairs and we got to church -- *gasp* -- early.
I know. We're amazed too.
I only had to use the restroom twice in the 2 1/2 hours we were there, which was a miracle in and of itself. We had driven two vehicles so that after church I could run some errands.
I hate running errands. I was really ONLY running them for the SOLE purpose of "walking the baby out". Well, that and Daniel said we were out of eggs. So I made my way around the mall, Motherhood Maternity, Bed Bath and Beyond, Kohl's, JoAnn, Walmart and Meijer before I headed home late this afternoon.
Still no baby.
I decided that we could live on cereal until the baby comes, so I bought 3 large bags and 2 boxes of cereal as well as a few gallons of milk! Ok, I also bought a few other things (like eggs), but mainly I bought cereal.
I'm sorry. But cooking completely wears me out these days.
And speaking of cooking....it's now nearing 5.30p and I have no thoughts on dinner whatsoever. None.
We have two chicken breasts in the fridge that I'm sure will turn into something magically delicious (if my husband has anything to do with it), but I'm just not sure what exactly. Guess I should get on that....
Hope you all are enjoying a great long weekend! I'm looking forward to Daniel being home an extra day this weekend, although to be honest, I'm really hoping to have this baby soon.
But I'm sure you already knew I was going to say that. :)
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Do The Duggars Have Too Many Children?
I'm sure most of you have heard by now that the Duggars have announced that they are now pregnant with their 19th child!
While I could sum up my thoughts on this on my own, I found that this recent post by MckMama did a pretty good job for me. So go read it. It's a good read, I promise.
And you know, if you want to, feel free to come back here and comment. But that's optional. :)
While I could sum up my thoughts on this on my own, I found that this recent post by MckMama did a pretty good job for me. So go read it. It's a good read, I promise.
And you know, if you want to, feel free to come back here and comment. But that's optional. :)
Friday, September 4, 2009
What's The Deal?
Surely you've noticed the lack of any sort of real blogging this week. No, I haven't had the baby. But let me catch you up on our life....
Monday you heard from me. I thought I might have been in labor when I had contractions 2-3 minutes apart for about an hour. But after that hour turned into 2 hours and then 3 and 4 with no sign of increasing strength or intensity in sight....I gave up timing and went to bed.
Lame.
Tuesday. I don't remember Tuesday at all. But I'm pretty sure it happened, because I remember Wednesday.
Wednesday we dropped off some peanut butter bars at a friends' house and went to visit Gretchen. Our kids ran around screaming and playing and we talked about water breaking, my birth plan, and how peach crisp is WAY better with ice cream. I left my water bottle at her house and nearly died.
I'm a little attached to my water bottle.
Eh hem.
After dinner our family took a walk. We pulled the girls in the wagon while Keaton rode his bike. Everyone had a meltdown about 3/4 of the way through. It was pretty exciting.
Thursday morning the kids and I went to playgroup. The weather this week has been perfect, but that has nothing to do with playgroup. We enjoyed snacking and I enjoyed eating food that somebody else made. The kids and I found a petrified, flattened frog outside our van door. Sienna lost one of Reagan's shoes, but Nicole found it. (Thanks, Nicole, even though you don't read my blog.) Gretchen returned my water bottle to me (and my son's shoes). I love Gretchen.
In the evening, we took another walk after dinner. Keaton and Sienna both rode bikes and I pushed Reagan in the stroller. There were no breakdowns to speak of, thankfully. We saw two cats who appeared to be ready to fight and one dog without a leash, but the kids remained relatively calm.
Today is Friday. I had an appointment with my midwife this morning. She informed me that I'm barely dilated (which was actually good news, since it means I don't have to be so worried about rushing to the hospital if I ever actually go into labor). I picked up my kids, we visited my husband for lunch, and came home to have a rather eventful naptime. I got a phone call from my old youth pastor and we chatted for about half an hour. I routinely call and harass them via telephone messages but rarely hear back, so it was nice to catch up.
While catching up, I completely spaced dinner and am now rushing that so we can finish up before we leave for game night.
Whew!
In between all those times, I've been trying to think about things other than going into labor. I'm not very good at that, but I'm trying.
Hope you all have a great Labor Day Weekend! I'm hoping it will truly be a laboring weekend for me! :)
Monday you heard from me. I thought I might have been in labor when I had contractions 2-3 minutes apart for about an hour. But after that hour turned into 2 hours and then 3 and 4 with no sign of increasing strength or intensity in sight....I gave up timing and went to bed.
Lame.
Tuesday. I don't remember Tuesday at all. But I'm pretty sure it happened, because I remember Wednesday.
Wednesday we dropped off some peanut butter bars at a friends' house and went to visit Gretchen. Our kids ran around screaming and playing and we talked about water breaking, my birth plan, and how peach crisp is WAY better with ice cream. I left my water bottle at her house and nearly died.
I'm a little attached to my water bottle.
Eh hem.
After dinner our family took a walk. We pulled the girls in the wagon while Keaton rode his bike. Everyone had a meltdown about 3/4 of the way through. It was pretty exciting.
Thursday morning the kids and I went to playgroup. The weather this week has been perfect, but that has nothing to do with playgroup. We enjoyed snacking and I enjoyed eating food that somebody else made. The kids and I found a petrified, flattened frog outside our van door. Sienna lost one of Reagan's shoes, but Nicole found it. (Thanks, Nicole, even though you don't read my blog.) Gretchen returned my water bottle to me (and my son's shoes). I love Gretchen.
In the evening, we took another walk after dinner. Keaton and Sienna both rode bikes and I pushed Reagan in the stroller. There were no breakdowns to speak of, thankfully. We saw two cats who appeared to be ready to fight and one dog without a leash, but the kids remained relatively calm.
Today is Friday. I had an appointment with my midwife this morning. She informed me that I'm barely dilated (which was actually good news, since it means I don't have to be so worried about rushing to the hospital if I ever actually go into labor). I picked up my kids, we visited my husband for lunch, and came home to have a rather eventful naptime. I got a phone call from my old youth pastor and we chatted for about half an hour. I routinely call and harass them via telephone messages but rarely hear back, so it was nice to catch up.
While catching up, I completely spaced dinner and am now rushing that so we can finish up before we leave for game night.
Whew!
In between all those times, I've been trying to think about things other than going into labor. I'm not very good at that, but I'm trying.
Hope you all have a great Labor Day Weekend! I'm hoping it will truly be a laboring weekend for me! :)
Foto Friday!
This picture was taken while my husband was getting all of our baby things out of the garage attic last weekend. Reagan still thinks she's the baby and decided she was going to hang out in the infant seat. My favorite part about the picture is the knee pads. Sienna put them on her and said, "She needs to wear these because I'm going to drive."
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
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