Lane Frosty Day #15
11 years ago
Monday, July 29, 2013
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Belief and Love
**I apologize for the randomness of this post, it is just simply my random thoughts on "paper"
It's been a minute since I have blogged. But for some reason I have felt the urging want or need to put my feelings in writing. Maybe so I can one day look back at my 20s and remember, maybe so one day my children can read what I went through, and understand that "I know"! Whatever the reason, here I am.
"The Bible", have you watched it? My husband and I are absolutely in love with this series. We know the stories, and grew up in church, but for some reason "seeing it" has given us all the clarity in the world. Not to mention I really LOVE connecting with my husband on a spiritual level. He challenges me, in a great way, and widens my perspective...but he can also bring me back to reality.
For whatever reason I have been going through a spiritual journey. I tend to do so every few years, something happens in my life that makes me think "Why am I here". The biggest difference about my current journey and those of the past is I find myself much more focued on "What can I do to fulfill YOUR purpose Lord". As most 20 somethings I have struggled in the past with faith, religion, beliefs etc. The biggest conclusion I have ever drawn is that anything done out of, or with Love, is never wrong.
This Easter season has hit me harder than most. I've not gotten caught up in pretty outfits, hunting plastic eggs, or pictures with this "Creep Bunny" that will be sneaking into your house to leave candy (I mean really, CREEPY) that tends to consume a parent during this time. No, I've found my mind much more occupied with Christ's journey. For the first time in my life I feel like I can relate to Jesus and His disciples. I believe it's because when I read the stories in the past I always pictured them as so much older than me. The truth is, they were the age I find myself at today, dealing with struggles in faith that many of us this age deal with. Maybe seeing it on television, and realizing hey, they're my age has helped with this!?
How powerful. Watching the Bible Sunday they depicted the last supper. To me, it always played out in my mind as this serious angelical occurence. But really it was a group of friends, who shared in belief and had true love for one another...How Powerful!! It's easy to say Jesus was the Son of God, of course He is perfect. But Jesus was also the Son of Mary, so of course He was man also. I don't believe he wanted to die, and I believe the thought of it, terrified Him. Not to mention one of his BEST FRIENDS sold him out. Could you sit and have dinner right next to the person you knew betrayed you, and still love them, forgive them? But he trusted in the Father, and He leaned on him in prayer when life was out of His control.
I've felt my love for Jesus grow tremendously over the last couple of weeks. And the love feels different, it's as strong as what I feel for Josh. I immediately understood the love that God and Jesus had for me the minute I laid eyes on my two precious gifts. All the doubt in the world of how they could love something or anyone so broken, were erased...because I GOT IT. But I am just now beginning to feel the love that I should for God and Jesus. I've always had a relationship with them, but selfishly I have been on the receiving end. I am working on that. Spending more time in my life asking "What would Jesus do, and How can I make You happy and proud of me".
It's not easy and I fail daily. That's okay, as long as I continue to learn and grown through my failures instead of justifying them. I'm not perfect, and don't believe I will ever be. But I do have a perfect love inside of me, and I do believe it is mine, and every other Christian's responsibility to share the same love that has been shown to us.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Ummm...sorry???
I am the WORST. BLOGGER. EVER!!!! I can not believe it has been about 7 months since my last post! Scratch that, yes I can! I am a stay at home mom of not one beautiful baby, but TWO beautiful babies!! Life is in full swing ladies and gents!!
I apologize completely for my absence! A lot has happened since we last chatted. You all know I had Mr. Parker, what you don't know is that by 3 months he was rolling over, and laughing, by 6/7 months he began to crawl and said dada, and is a CHAMP at eating. We can actually scoop the food onto the spoon and the child will feed himself!! Parker can also GO in the walker. I'm talking take off running and just slide! It's the funniest thing to watch! At this time he already has SIX TEETH! You read it right...6! It has been a LOOOOOONG couple of months in our house. Currently he is working on two more for a grand total of eight coming soon!!
He is the polar opposite of Lena, well except in the way they both make my heart melt! He is a sensitive little thing. Parker gets his feelings hurt extremely easy. Sissy (Lena Belle) will often find Parker playing with a toy that is CLEARLY off limits to him...aka her Ken doll. He is welcome to play with ANY ONE of her 20 barbies, but no Ken!! This usually insues in a pulling match, followed by some yelling, the likes of which I can not understand (probably better off), and ends up with an upset little boy crying on the floor. OH, but don't worry, Lena does not miss a beat. Once she has secured the Ken doll she will always find something else more suitable for Parker to play with!
All mothers say it, but I really do adore my kiddos. I am so blessed, in more ways than one! I couldn't be more thankful for how loving Lena is to her little brother. She's at a sensitive age, you know THE TWOS!!! I was terrified that once tantrums began her anger would be taken out on baby bro, but so far so good. Daddy, myself, and Allie take the brunt of the hostility!! :0)
I guess you figured out that Ms. Belle turned two! Ahh...be still my heart! Where does the time go? I am absolutely LOVING this stage of her life. Her speech is greatly improving, and her sentence structure gets us laughing everytime! For instance:
What you would say:
"May I please have a glass of juice"
The way it goes down in my house:
Lena- "Duice, dada, go-go, bye!!!"
Mom- "Lena what do you say??"
Lena- "PEEEZZE...k bye!"
She's getting there! In the meantime she keeps us entertained! We are working on potty training! It's a slow process with her, and I am afraid it's just going to be. The girl is so independent. She does things on her time...period! So that whole putting your child on the potty every 30 min or so...yeah it doesn't work here. What we end up with is a big screaming, kicking match and a mommy frustrated...while baby watches from the door in the walker! Kind of commical now that I think about it!
She has gone potty, several times in fact, and usually atleast once a day. She knows what it means, how to get on it, how to wipe, flush...so on and so forth. She just really isn't interested in doing it sometimes!! But she absolutely does not want to be in a dirty diaper. SOO with that said, since potty training she has began to come up and tell us when it's time to be changed! Another grammer lesson....
What you would say:
"Mommy I went poop/pee! Change me please"
Lena's rendition:
"Mama..poo..SHOOOOWEEE!! Mon, go!!!.....PPEEEZZEEE"
No lie, I even caught the child changing her own diaper one day! I went into Parker's room for something only to find her sprawled out naked on the floor, wipes in one hand, diaper under her booty, and a MASSIVE amount of AandD ointment in the other hand! It wasn't half bad I guess! HAHA
So you see, I have stayed pretty busy these last few months! And I won't say it's because they are such a hand full, and yes having two kids so young can be a LOT at times. But really I just enjoy being a mommy. I can't think of any other way I would rather spend my days then lost in their baby blues reading the same book over and over again, enjoying tea partys, giving ANOTHER bath for the day, chasing around the house, dancing around a musical teapot, or cuddling up to the couch with!! They are absolute perfection and have made my life something worth blogging about, but at the same time...lacking the real desire to take time away to do so! hmm funny how that works!!
I apologize completely for my absence! A lot has happened since we last chatted. You all know I had Mr. Parker, what you don't know is that by 3 months he was rolling over, and laughing, by 6/7 months he began to crawl and said dada, and is a CHAMP at eating. We can actually scoop the food onto the spoon and the child will feed himself!! Parker can also GO in the walker. I'm talking take off running and just slide! It's the funniest thing to watch! At this time he already has SIX TEETH! You read it right...6! It has been a LOOOOOONG couple of months in our house. Currently he is working on two more for a grand total of eight coming soon!!
He is the polar opposite of Lena, well except in the way they both make my heart melt! He is a sensitive little thing. Parker gets his feelings hurt extremely easy. Sissy (Lena Belle) will often find Parker playing with a toy that is CLEARLY off limits to him...aka her Ken doll. He is welcome to play with ANY ONE of her 20 barbies, but no Ken!! This usually insues in a pulling match, followed by some yelling, the likes of which I can not understand (probably better off), and ends up with an upset little boy crying on the floor. OH, but don't worry, Lena does not miss a beat. Once she has secured the Ken doll she will always find something else more suitable for Parker to play with!
All mothers say it, but I really do adore my kiddos. I am so blessed, in more ways than one! I couldn't be more thankful for how loving Lena is to her little brother. She's at a sensitive age, you know THE TWOS!!! I was terrified that once tantrums began her anger would be taken out on baby bro, but so far so good. Daddy, myself, and Allie take the brunt of the hostility!! :0)
I guess you figured out that Ms. Belle turned two! Ahh...be still my heart! Where does the time go? I am absolutely LOVING this stage of her life. Her speech is greatly improving, and her sentence structure gets us laughing everytime! For instance:
What you would say:
"May I please have a glass of juice"
The way it goes down in my house:
Lena- "Duice, dada, go-go, bye!!!"
Mom- "Lena what do you say??"
Lena- "PEEEZZE...k bye!"
She's getting there! In the meantime she keeps us entertained! We are working on potty training! It's a slow process with her, and I am afraid it's just going to be. The girl is so independent. She does things on her time...period! So that whole putting your child on the potty every 30 min or so...yeah it doesn't work here. What we end up with is a big screaming, kicking match and a mommy frustrated...while baby watches from the door in the walker! Kind of commical now that I think about it!
She has gone potty, several times in fact, and usually atleast once a day. She knows what it means, how to get on it, how to wipe, flush...so on and so forth. She just really isn't interested in doing it sometimes!! But she absolutely does not want to be in a dirty diaper. SOO with that said, since potty training she has began to come up and tell us when it's time to be changed! Another grammer lesson....
What you would say:
"Mommy I went poop/pee! Change me please"
Lena's rendition:
"Mama..poo..SHOOOOWEEE!! Mon, go!!!.....PPEEEZZEEE"
No lie, I even caught the child changing her own diaper one day! I went into Parker's room for something only to find her sprawled out naked on the floor, wipes in one hand, diaper under her booty, and a MASSIVE amount of AandD ointment in the other hand! It wasn't half bad I guess! HAHA
So you see, I have stayed pretty busy these last few months! And I won't say it's because they are such a hand full, and yes having two kids so young can be a LOT at times. But really I just enjoy being a mommy. I can't think of any other way I would rather spend my days then lost in their baby blues reading the same book over and over again, enjoying tea partys, giving ANOTHER bath for the day, chasing around the house, dancing around a musical teapot, or cuddling up to the couch with!! They are absolute perfection and have made my life something worth blogging about, but at the same time...lacking the real desire to take time away to do so! hmm funny how that works!!
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Parker Scott
I can't believe Parker is almost six weeks old, and I have yet to find the time to blog about his birth, and amazing life he is living! So forgive me for my delay! Have 2 under 2 can leave you with little time to eat, much less a chance to sit down and "journal"!!
Parker Scott made his entrance at 11:52 p.m on August 18th, 2011. He weighed in at a whopping 8 pounds 15 ounces, and was a height of 22.5 inches long. I wish I could tell you that it was this perfect, amazing birth that I will look back on lovingly for the rest of my life.
I had decided that week to go ahead with an induction. I felt discouraged for "giving" into this temptation, but the fact remained that I was completely, utterly, miserable. I had been dialated about 4 centimeters for almost 2 weeks, on and off bleeing, lost my mucus plug, painful contractions that would pick up and stop, and swelling that was so painful I couldn't make a fist and was barely able to pick up Lena. Suffice to say my body was taking a MAJOR beating.
The doctor kept assuring me that he wasn't a "big" baby, but my gut was telling me something else. There was no way that I was feeling him up as high, and down as low as I was if he was just as big as his older sister. Anyways after weeks of utter pregnant misery I caved and scheduled an induction. I gave myself about another week after I scheduled one for my body to kick in on it's own....it didn't!
We arrived at the hospital around 6:30 that morning and since I had done a preregistration we were quickly taken back and set up in a delivery room. I'd been contracting all morning, but was so used to it that I didn't think much of it. They were reading about every 6 or so minutes apart, but nothing ever intensified or picked up.
They started me on the pitocin around 9:45ish. It didn't take long for the contractions to set in. About an hour or so later I started to really feel pressure. The contractions hurt, but they weren't agonizing...my mom so kindly informed me that my contractions were only reading about a 40...and they needed to get to a 100 before it was all said and done! LoL after informing her that I wasn't in a good mood and didn't need them telling me what did and did not hurt...she decided to take a walk...aka get away from my bad attitude! (and trust me, when I am in labor...or going through anything for that matter...it's better to just back off and leave me be. If I need ya, I'll tell ya!!)
I had already told them I wanted the epidural. After my last delivery I didn't want to risk any more pain than necessary. I decided to goempty my bladder before the doctor showed up with the "good meds". It took me a minute to get up, and get to the bathroom, and at this point my contractions were just a few minutes apart. I can't even describe to you the way they felt. With Lena I remember this HORRIBLE period like cramp down through my legs. This time around they were different. They were concentrated in my "woman parts" and felt like I was trying to hold a bowling ball inside...literally.
So I tell my nurse the type of pain I'm having. She wants to check me, but they are here with the epidural and we decide to wait till after my line is in place. The epidural was the hardest part. Having to sit still when all you want to do is pace around the floor...and I had been....was no fun. Not to mention once she got it in, she decided it needed to be redone. UGH!! They were absolutely wonderful and gentle with me and worked amazing around my contractions...waiting for my go ahead each time before moving to the next step.
After the "test dosage" my nurse checks me. Yup...fully dialated, and was already fully effaced when we got there..so it was go time! Basically I labored without any sort of drug, and am not sure teh pitocin really did a whole lot...maybe sped it up a bit, but hey I had already felt like I was in labor for weeks.
So an hour after starting the induction, I was ready to push. Pushing went great, until that small dose of pain medicine kicked in...it took a minute to get my groove back. About 45 minutes later his head was out...and this is where the story turns. Parker just stopped coming out...he had shoulder dystocia, aka he got stuck.
At this point all I remember is the nurse pushing mom away, my doctor jumping up out of her seat, and everyone YELLING at me to just push and don't stop. Next thing I know, Dr. Booth is literally elbows deep in me just pulling, tugging, twisting, whatever she can do to get him loose.
I can vividly remember thinking, what if they don't get him out...what are we going to do. I'm positve I prayed through the grunts, and what felt like forever later, he was out. Dr. Booth yelled for the respiratory doctor. At this point my heart stopped. "what is wrong with my baby" "please dear God let him be ok"...these kept going through my mind over and over. I don't think I had any sense of readable emotion until they told me he was okay. At that point I just broke down and cried...babyless, layed up alone on a table. When mom and Josh saw this, they were immediately at my side hugging, kissing, reassuring me.
Eventually my uncontrollable sobbing calmed down and they placed my "little dumpling" in my arms. 8 pounds, 15 ounces...he was almost 2 pounds and 2 inches bigger than his sister was...but like his sister he was absolutely perfect!!
After two scary deliveries I am blessed to have two beautiful, healthy children. Parker has completely turned my world upside down, and they both teach me something new daily, but that's an etirely different blog!
For now I will quit this memory rambling!!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
The Waiting Game....Again!!
By far the hardest part of pregnancy, for me, is waiting around for labor to begin. Lena was born EXACTLY on her due date. Well, actually she just barely made it, by arriving at about 11:52. I didn't have any sort of "warning" that labor was coming. I had been dilated 2 cm and 50 % effaced for weeks. I hadn't experienced any real contractions (well, not including the couple I got while watching a crazy Cats game) I vividly remember sitting in bed....on the computer...at midnight...when I felt my first true contraction. There was no doubt in my mind that this was "it". And sure enough they steadily came every 15-20 minutes all night. They grew more painful, and closer together, and when I saw red, I made my way to the hospital.
Parker's story, not so much. When I went for my 37 week checkup, I was already miserable. I had cleaned the entire morning, and my back was aching like no other. I didn't get my hopes up for much of anything. However, when I heard the words 3-4cm and 50-70 % effaced I thought "WHAT"!!! Dr. Croce seemed certain I would go into labor by the weekend. And while I knew that the doctor's can only make a "prediction", I was hopeful. My checkup sent my body completely out of wack. The usual spotting, cramping, contracting, followed my the loss of my plug had me extremely hopeful. Again, not so much. This misery went on for DAYS followed by days of NOTHING!!! I think I have had about 4 or 5 different instances where I thought, this is it. I kid you not, there were a couple of times my contractions hurt so bad, I couldn't get out of bed. But, alas, they eased up and still no baby!
So the waiting has been much harder this time around. Actually it's not so much the waiting part, as it is the fake out. Let me be clear....these so called "false contractions" can HURT! And I'm having them so often now, that I don't even get excited anymore. I just chalk it up to my little prankster and go about my business. Hopefully I don't sit around ignoring them and end up having a baby in the back seat of Bertha! LoL
Needless to say, I am ready. I hope Parker is too. Maybe all this pain and agony won't be a waste of time and labor will go fast. (I won't hold my breath) Did I mention that my hormones have me feeling extremely negative these days...Ugh!! :0)
Parker's story, not so much. When I went for my 37 week checkup, I was already miserable. I had cleaned the entire morning, and my back was aching like no other. I didn't get my hopes up for much of anything. However, when I heard the words 3-4cm and 50-70 % effaced I thought "WHAT"!!! Dr. Croce seemed certain I would go into labor by the weekend. And while I knew that the doctor's can only make a "prediction", I was hopeful. My checkup sent my body completely out of wack. The usual spotting, cramping, contracting, followed my the loss of my plug had me extremely hopeful. Again, not so much. This misery went on for DAYS followed by days of NOTHING!!! I think I have had about 4 or 5 different instances where I thought, this is it. I kid you not, there were a couple of times my contractions hurt so bad, I couldn't get out of bed. But, alas, they eased up and still no baby!
So the waiting has been much harder this time around. Actually it's not so much the waiting part, as it is the fake out. Let me be clear....these so called "false contractions" can HURT! And I'm having them so often now, that I don't even get excited anymore. I just chalk it up to my little prankster and go about my business. Hopefully I don't sit around ignoring them and end up having a baby in the back seat of Bertha! LoL
Needless to say, I am ready. I hope Parker is too. Maybe all this pain and agony won't be a waste of time and labor will go fast. (I won't hold my breath) Did I mention that my hormones have me feeling extremely negative these days...Ugh!! :0)
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
37 weeks!!
Sorry, I don't know what happened to week 36...it just came and went!! hmmmm....
Total weight gain/loss: holding steady!
Maternity clothes? Yes!!!
Stretch marks? Just the few!!
Sleep: I have learned to live without it
Best moment this week: Too many to list!!
Movement: Yes, but he's calmed down the last day or two!
Food cravings: Nope, just hungry!!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Oh yes! We are in our home stretch! I found out today that I am 3/4 centimeters dialated, head is at -1 ( i thin kthat's right), and between 50/70 percent effaced!! I was in utter shock to hear this news! I knew I had been feeling "different" the last few days, bursts of energy, sickness, and a LOT of heavy pressure, but I had no clue my body was doing so much work! Since my checkup I have paid more attention to my contractions! They are fairly regular, and strong, but don't exactly hurt!! Hopefully the little guy gives us some "warning" time to get down to the hospital!! Could be any day now....or next week! You just never know!!
Belly Button in or out? Out, period!!
Wedding rings on or off? Still off...I miss them! :0(
What I miss: sleep, and sleep, and sleep, and sleep....did I mention sleep!!??
What I am looking forward to: Meeting Mr. Parker!! Won't be long!!
Weekly Wisdom: You can prepare as much as you want, but you will still have a sense of "panic" when you know it's really going down!! So just relax and enjoy it all as best you can!
Milestones: Parker could be here at any moment now!! WHAAAAT!!??
Total weight gain/loss: holding steady!
Maternity clothes? Yes!!!
Stretch marks? Just the few!!
Sleep: I have learned to live without it
Best moment this week: Too many to list!!
Movement: Yes, but he's calmed down the last day or two!
Food cravings: Nope, just hungry!!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Oh yes! We are in our home stretch! I found out today that I am 3/4 centimeters dialated, head is at -1 ( i thin kthat's right), and between 50/70 percent effaced!! I was in utter shock to hear this news! I knew I had been feeling "different" the last few days, bursts of energy, sickness, and a LOT of heavy pressure, but I had no clue my body was doing so much work! Since my checkup I have paid more attention to my contractions! They are fairly regular, and strong, but don't exactly hurt!! Hopefully the little guy gives us some "warning" time to get down to the hospital!! Could be any day now....or next week! You just never know!!
Belly Button in or out? Out, period!!
Wedding rings on or off? Still off...I miss them! :0(
What I miss: sleep, and sleep, and sleep, and sleep....did I mention sleep!!??
What I am looking forward to: Meeting Mr. Parker!! Won't be long!!
Weekly Wisdom: You can prepare as much as you want, but you will still have a sense of "panic" when you know it's really going down!! So just relax and enjoy it all as best you can!
Milestones: Parker could be here at any moment now!! WHAAAAT!!??
Monday, July 25, 2011
This is it....!!!
Don't worry! No I am not currently sitting in labor and delivery awaiting the arrival of our precious Parker! But I have reached that pinnacle part of pregnancy where every ache and pain makes you want to haul hiney to triage!! My poor family! I have more aches and pains to whine about than any human being should be allowed...
I'll be honest! I really did believe that labor was starting the night before last. I had ran to the grocery to get a few things, after taking a bit of a nap. Before I left I told Josh I was a bit crampy, and thought maybe if I got up and out I'd feel a bit better. Thus an impromtu grocery run...(ps I LOVE LOVE LOVE grocery shopping, so does Joshua) Anywho, back to the real story!! While walking around I noticed my back and stomach really starting to ache. It was seriously becoming so bad that walking like a normal human being was a challenge.
After walking around the store to get the few items I came for (plus a cart full of stuff we didn't need, but looked good haha) I headed home. Josh had made some AMAZING sausage and krauts! I know to most of you that sounds gross, but it was delicious and I must say it put Schmidts to shame! Unfortunately thought it took a while for my too eat. My stomach continued this cramping nonsense...all through that night.
Nothing ever came of it (obviously) and I remember a couple of times thinking to myself "I should really get up, shower, and shave"!! hahaha I even called my mom and talked to her about it.
Ever since that night I have had a crazy persistent back ache, and some intense contractions. Again, no pattern, nothing getting worse, and no other sign of impending labor, but every time I feel my tummy tighten...I think "this is it!! Here we go...HOLY CRAP!"
I am sure it will happen the one day my house isn't picked up, Lena and I are pajama lounging, and Josh is stuck in meetings unable to get to his phone!! Don't worry, I'll let you know when it does happen!! :0)
I'll be honest! I really did believe that labor was starting the night before last. I had ran to the grocery to get a few things, after taking a bit of a nap. Before I left I told Josh I was a bit crampy, and thought maybe if I got up and out I'd feel a bit better. Thus an impromtu grocery run...(ps I LOVE LOVE LOVE grocery shopping, so does Joshua) Anywho, back to the real story!! While walking around I noticed my back and stomach really starting to ache. It was seriously becoming so bad that walking like a normal human being was a challenge.
After walking around the store to get the few items I came for (plus a cart full of stuff we didn't need, but looked good haha) I headed home. Josh had made some AMAZING sausage and krauts! I know to most of you that sounds gross, but it was delicious and I must say it put Schmidts to shame! Unfortunately thought it took a while for my too eat. My stomach continued this cramping nonsense...all through that night.
Nothing ever came of it (obviously) and I remember a couple of times thinking to myself "I should really get up, shower, and shave"!! hahaha I even called my mom and talked to her about it.
Ever since that night I have had a crazy persistent back ache, and some intense contractions. Again, no pattern, nothing getting worse, and no other sign of impending labor, but every time I feel my tummy tighten...I think "this is it!! Here we go...HOLY CRAP!"
I am sure it will happen the one day my house isn't picked up, Lena and I are pajama lounging, and Josh is stuck in meetings unable to get to his phone!! Don't worry, I'll let you know when it does happen!! :0)
Thursday, July 21, 2011
There's this thing...
Called nesting!! And boy oh boy is mama bear nesting!! I absolutely do not remember this phase at all when I was pregnant with Lena! All I ever wanted to do was lay around and nap!! I feel like I slept through that entire pregnancy!! I can seriously remember just being miserable in my last month, feeling soo ridiculously huge and disgusting, and just wanting to curl up with a box of donuts and cry!! LoL
This time around, all I can think about is cleaning!! I seriously clean...ALL THE FLIPPING TIME!!! It drives me nutso' when I vacuum, and can't see the lines in the carpet...which has resulted in vacuuming more than once a day! I'm pretty sure I've cleaned the fridge 3 times now, though I'm sure you can't tell it, organized both the kiddo's closets, scrub the bathrooms....DAILY, sweep, mop...you name it, Ima doing it!! It's ridiculous, but I can't stop! Even when I hit a wall and just need to lay down for a nap, all I can think about are the dog gone lines that have vanished from my carpet! I've even made a "cleaning to do" list for my MIL who will be staying here while I am in the hospital to help Josh out!! I'm terrified that all this nesting will go to waste when I'm not here!! Yes folks...I have officially checked in to looney town!!
On the upside, my house is clean...including all of our laundry! Did I mention I have done laundry constantly as well!! I think a lot of this has been due in part to the knowing that I have Lena now, so I know that when I come home I will have a small amount of "free time" if any!!
I might be driving my husband insane as well!! He actually looked at me the other night while I was trying to relax in a bubble bath, and asked me why I had been so hormonal lately!! LoL I laughed, looked down at the ginormous island of a belly sticking out of the water, and replied "really....you can't figure it out for yourself"!!!
Yeah, so I've just been nesting away! And when I'm not nesting, or attending to the daily things one needs to do to stay alive (ie eat and sleep) I'm consumed with lists! The to do list, grocery list, to buy list, Christmas list (no, I'm not joking)
So maybe all this craziness means that Parker will be here soon, and I can start to get a small bit of my normal mind back!! Or as close to normal as one can be with two kids under the age of two!! We shall see!!
This time around, all I can think about is cleaning!! I seriously clean...ALL THE FLIPPING TIME!!! It drives me nutso' when I vacuum, and can't see the lines in the carpet...which has resulted in vacuuming more than once a day! I'm pretty sure I've cleaned the fridge 3 times now, though I'm sure you can't tell it, organized both the kiddo's closets, scrub the bathrooms....DAILY, sweep, mop...you name it, Ima doing it!! It's ridiculous, but I can't stop! Even when I hit a wall and just need to lay down for a nap, all I can think about are the dog gone lines that have vanished from my carpet! I've even made a "cleaning to do" list for my MIL who will be staying here while I am in the hospital to help Josh out!! I'm terrified that all this nesting will go to waste when I'm not here!! Yes folks...I have officially checked in to looney town!!
On the upside, my house is clean...including all of our laundry! Did I mention I have done laundry constantly as well!! I think a lot of this has been due in part to the knowing that I have Lena now, so I know that when I come home I will have a small amount of "free time" if any!!
I might be driving my husband insane as well!! He actually looked at me the other night while I was trying to relax in a bubble bath, and asked me why I had been so hormonal lately!! LoL I laughed, looked down at the ginormous island of a belly sticking out of the water, and replied "really....you can't figure it out for yourself"!!!
Yeah, so I've just been nesting away! And when I'm not nesting, or attending to the daily things one needs to do to stay alive (ie eat and sleep) I'm consumed with lists! The to do list, grocery list, to buy list, Christmas list (no, I'm not joking)
So maybe all this craziness means that Parker will be here soon, and I can start to get a small bit of my normal mind back!! Or as close to normal as one can be with two kids under the age of two!! We shall see!!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
35 Weeks!!
Total weight gain/loss: I've gained about 25 pounds...eek!
Maternity clothes? Yes!!!
Stretch marks? Just the few!!
Sleep: Not so much!! Still uncomfortable....Lena is cutting one more tooth...my acid is sickening (literally makes me sick)...I pee-A LOT...just the usual, you know!
Best moment this week: Every moment is a blessing!
Movement: Yes, this baby is sooo strong, and I'm afraid he's going to be a biggen!! Dr. Croce said that I am measuring small, but he is certaintly not a small baby!! I tend to just carry low!
Food cravings: Not really...a burger sounds good, but I wouldn't say I am "craving" it!!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Some much stronger contracting going on! I had one at my appointment while Dr. Croce was measuring me- I think it caught her by surprise! haha Still a ton of pressure...it seriously feels like he could just fall out!! Still some nesting!! My house is pretty clean these days!!
Belly Button in or out? Both...in when I lay down, out when I stand up! And both when I laugh...it pops in and out! Josh finds this hillarious!!
Wedding rings on or off? Still off...I miss them! :0(
What I miss: Touching my toes!! LoL
What I am looking forward to: Meeting Mr. Parker!! Won't be long!!
Weekly Wisdom: Do what you can now....you won't have time once babe arrives!! :0)
Milestones: We are officially in our last month of pregnancy!! We now go to the Dr. every week!
Maternity clothes? Yes!!!
Stretch marks? Just the few!!
Sleep: Not so much!! Still uncomfortable....Lena is cutting one more tooth...my acid is sickening (literally makes me sick)...I pee-A LOT...just the usual, you know!
Best moment this week: Every moment is a blessing!
Movement: Yes, this baby is sooo strong, and I'm afraid he's going to be a biggen!! Dr. Croce said that I am measuring small, but he is certaintly not a small baby!! I tend to just carry low!
Food cravings: Not really...a burger sounds good, but I wouldn't say I am "craving" it!!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Some much stronger contracting going on! I had one at my appointment while Dr. Croce was measuring me- I think it caught her by surprise! haha Still a ton of pressure...it seriously feels like he could just fall out!! Still some nesting!! My house is pretty clean these days!!
Belly Button in or out? Both...in when I lay down, out when I stand up! And both when I laugh...it pops in and out! Josh finds this hillarious!!
Wedding rings on or off? Still off...I miss them! :0(
What I miss: Touching my toes!! LoL
What I am looking forward to: Meeting Mr. Parker!! Won't be long!!
Weekly Wisdom: Do what you can now....you won't have time once babe arrives!! :0)
Milestones: We are officially in our last month of pregnancy!! We now go to the Dr. every week!
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
34 Weeks!
Total weight gain/loss: Not sure! I am supposed to have an appointment this week, but rescheduled it for next Monday so Josh can help with Lena!! She's really impossible during those visits! LoL
Maternity clothes? Yes!!!
Stretch marks? Just the few!!
Sleep: Not enough! Sleep literally hurts! I just can not get comfortable....I'm tossing, turning, getting on our couch in the bedroom to prop up...nothing works!
Best moment this week: Getting some much needed cleaning and organizing done!! I also got mine and Parker's hospital bag packed!! The boy has more outfits than Lena did...I swear! My mother and I have a serious shopping problem when it comes to these babies!! LoL
Movement: Yes, sometimes they hurt!! Its reassuring to know he's so strong though! :0)
Food cravings: No...I'm hungry a lot, but just don't have enough room to eat like I would like to!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Still BH...pressure...tons of nesting...little bit of sickness!! All part of the game
Belly Button in or out? Both...in when I lay down, out when I stand up!
Wedding rings on or off? Still off, I haven't even attempted to put them on
What I miss: Letting Lena Belle sleep on my chest! She still wants, and tries to, but it's not comfy for any of us!! :0(
What I am looking forward to: Meeting my little man! I daydream constantly about what he will be like. Will he have his sister's head full of hair, and non stop independent personality, or will he be my little snuggle bunny!!!
Weekly Wisdom: Getting ready is soo overrated! LoL Lena nad I have spent the last days in our PJs...(don't worry we showered, just may have forgotten to fix our hair!!)
Milestones: Bags packed and ready to go!
Maternity clothes? Yes!!!
Stretch marks? Just the few!!
Sleep: Not enough! Sleep literally hurts! I just can not get comfortable....I'm tossing, turning, getting on our couch in the bedroom to prop up...nothing works!
Best moment this week: Getting some much needed cleaning and organizing done!! I also got mine and Parker's hospital bag packed!! The boy has more outfits than Lena did...I swear! My mother and I have a serious shopping problem when it comes to these babies!! LoL
Movement: Yes, sometimes they hurt!! Its reassuring to know he's so strong though! :0)
Food cravings: No...I'm hungry a lot, but just don't have enough room to eat like I would like to!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Still BH...pressure...tons of nesting...little bit of sickness!! All part of the game
Belly Button in or out? Both...in when I lay down, out when I stand up!
Wedding rings on or off? Still off, I haven't even attempted to put them on
What I miss: Letting Lena Belle sleep on my chest! She still wants, and tries to, but it's not comfy for any of us!! :0(
What I am looking forward to: Meeting my little man! I daydream constantly about what he will be like. Will he have his sister's head full of hair, and non stop independent personality, or will he be my little snuggle bunny!!!
Weekly Wisdom: Getting ready is soo overrated! LoL Lena nad I have spent the last days in our PJs...(don't worry we showered, just may have forgotten to fix our hair!!)
Milestones: Bags packed and ready to go!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
33 weeks!
Total weight gain/loss: I've gained about 22 pounds!!
Maternity clothes? Yuppers...and I plan on wearing them if need be until I lose weight!! I refuse to spend anymore money on clothes I can only wear for a short period of time!
Stretch marks? a few on top of the old! So whatevs!!
Sleep: Very little!! I've started needing a daily nap again! Which may or may not happen depending on Lena's sleep!
Best moment this week: Visiting my parents and brother and Katie Beth in Ohio was definitely a highlight! We had soo much fun! Lena got to go to the zoo for the first time! She absolutely loved it! I was soo proud at how she acted for it to be the hottest, most humid day ever!! I really think she enjoyed herself! So did we! I love watching her experience things for the first time! Even if I did swell up like a balloon!! (no really...it was bad, I couldn't even make a fist by the end of the day) I also have to mention that we are almost completely prepared for Mr. Parker. Well as prepared as you can be for a newborn! We went on a shopping spree with the giftcards we got from Josh's wonderful coworkers, and loaded him up on some good stuff!!
Movement: yes, but he's running out of room...and my tummy is stretched to it's limits!
Food cravings: No, not really!!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Still BH. I'm also having some crazy pressure and pains down south. I asked the Dr. to check his position last week and he confirmed (as best as he could) that he's head down, and by my symptoms dropping and engaging. He had me take my records with me on vacay just in case!! He did say that with me being as far along as I am if I did go into labor they wouldn't hold me off too long!! It's a bit nerve wrecking, but Parker and I have discussed it and he has agreed to give mommy atleast 4 more weeks to finish her to do list!! ;0)
Belly Button in or out? Both...in when I lay down, out when I stand up!
Wedding rings on or off? To my dismay...off!! I can't even get them over the nuckle now! I was so swollen this weekend that even my watch and pearl ring were too snug for comfort!! I'm not liking this, but everything looks fine (ie blood pressure, etc) and I drink water like it's nobody's business, so I guess it's just something I will have to toughen out till Dday. Did I mention that even my flip flops are a bit snug!
What I miss: Sleep, not being soo achy all the time, and just having energy in general! But it's all soo worth it!
What I am looking forward to: Finishing my to do list and feeling like I am truly prepared for Parker to be here!
Weekly Wisdom: Pregnant women deserve a foot rub...nightly!! :0)
Milestones: Parker settling into the heads down position!! He's getting ready!
Maternity clothes? Yuppers...and I plan on wearing them if need be until I lose weight!! I refuse to spend anymore money on clothes I can only wear for a short period of time!
Stretch marks? a few on top of the old! So whatevs!!
Sleep: Very little!! I've started needing a daily nap again! Which may or may not happen depending on Lena's sleep!
Best moment this week: Visiting my parents and brother and Katie Beth in Ohio was definitely a highlight! We had soo much fun! Lena got to go to the zoo for the first time! She absolutely loved it! I was soo proud at how she acted for it to be the hottest, most humid day ever!! I really think she enjoyed herself! So did we! I love watching her experience things for the first time! Even if I did swell up like a balloon!! (no really...it was bad, I couldn't even make a fist by the end of the day) I also have to mention that we are almost completely prepared for Mr. Parker. Well as prepared as you can be for a newborn! We went on a shopping spree with the giftcards we got from Josh's wonderful coworkers, and loaded him up on some good stuff!!
Movement: yes, but he's running out of room...and my tummy is stretched to it's limits!
Food cravings: No, not really!!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Still BH. I'm also having some crazy pressure and pains down south. I asked the Dr. to check his position last week and he confirmed (as best as he could) that he's head down, and by my symptoms dropping and engaging. He had me take my records with me on vacay just in case!! He did say that with me being as far along as I am if I did go into labor they wouldn't hold me off too long!! It's a bit nerve wrecking, but Parker and I have discussed it and he has agreed to give mommy atleast 4 more weeks to finish her to do list!! ;0)
Belly Button in or out? Both...in when I lay down, out when I stand up!
Wedding rings on or off? To my dismay...off!! I can't even get them over the nuckle now! I was so swollen this weekend that even my watch and pearl ring were too snug for comfort!! I'm not liking this, but everything looks fine (ie blood pressure, etc) and I drink water like it's nobody's business, so I guess it's just something I will have to toughen out till Dday. Did I mention that even my flip flops are a bit snug!
What I miss: Sleep, not being soo achy all the time, and just having energy in general! But it's all soo worth it!
What I am looking forward to: Finishing my to do list and feeling like I am truly prepared for Parker to be here!
Weekly Wisdom: Pregnant women deserve a foot rub...nightly!! :0)
Milestones: Parker settling into the heads down position!! He's getting ready!
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
32 Weeks
Total weight gain/loss: ENOUGH! LoL, I have actually put on the exact amount with Parker as I did with Lena! Granted I started a bit heavier the second time around...but I am also much more toned this pregnancy than last...so whatever right!!??
Maternity clothes? Yes, and Yes!! I finally gave in a week ago and bought some maternity shorts (actually Josh's Stepmommy got them for my bday) I had been wearing my prepreggo bottoms with a belly band, but that was getting a bit ridiculous! LoL
Stretch marks? I have a few new ones, but they are really just on top of the old ones! Josh still loves me, so it's all good! LoL
Sleep: Horrible!! I am sooo hot at night, and soo uncomfortable! Not to mention Lena's still trying to break those stinking teeth through, and has taken comfort in sleeping on Mommy and Parker!!
Best moment this week: As exhausting as company can be, it's been great having family in and out of town! I've gotten several things done I've been putting off, plus some much needed nap time has been gained!! Oh and did I mention Lena pooped in her potty!!?? I wasn't with her, Josh was, but he was soo proud, it was cute, and gross at the same time! LoL Needless to say I think we will be investing in pullups and really cracking down on our training after we go see mom and dad!! Wouldn't it be great if she was out of diapers when Parker got here LoL (I shant hold my breath)
Movement: Tons, and it can be extremely uncomfortable!
Food cravings: No, not really!!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Lots of BH still!! I've also noticed some pressure/pain in my lower body, and a tailbone that is constantly aching! I'm not sure if he is still breach or not, or if hes getting into his head down position....
Belly Button in or out? Both...in when I lay down, out when I stand up!
Wedding rings on or off? Sadly they are off!! I can still get them on, but my swelling comes and goes and I am terrified they will get stuck on me! So I just decided to take them off while it's still safe! I wear the beautiful pearl/diamond ring my parents gave me for my wedding day on that finger now!
What I miss: Sleep...like that good deep, wake up refreshed sleep!
What I am looking forward to: Visiting my parents and brother and Katie Beth!! Hopefully the doctor clears me for travel tomorrow!!
Weekly Wisdom: Listen to your body...rest if you need to, or heck just want too!
Milestones: With Lena...our potty success story! With Parker...we are just about 4/5 weeks out from full term!! WHAT!!??
Maternity clothes? Yes, and Yes!! I finally gave in a week ago and bought some maternity shorts (actually Josh's Stepmommy got them for my bday) I had been wearing my prepreggo bottoms with a belly band, but that was getting a bit ridiculous! LoL
Stretch marks? I have a few new ones, but they are really just on top of the old ones! Josh still loves me, so it's all good! LoL
Sleep: Horrible!! I am sooo hot at night, and soo uncomfortable! Not to mention Lena's still trying to break those stinking teeth through, and has taken comfort in sleeping on Mommy and Parker!!
Best moment this week: As exhausting as company can be, it's been great having family in and out of town! I've gotten several things done I've been putting off, plus some much needed nap time has been gained!! Oh and did I mention Lena pooped in her potty!!?? I wasn't with her, Josh was, but he was soo proud, it was cute, and gross at the same time! LoL Needless to say I think we will be investing in pullups and really cracking down on our training after we go see mom and dad!! Wouldn't it be great if she was out of diapers when Parker got here LoL (I shant hold my breath)
Movement: Tons, and it can be extremely uncomfortable!
Food cravings: No, not really!!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Lots of BH still!! I've also noticed some pressure/pain in my lower body, and a tailbone that is constantly aching! I'm not sure if he is still breach or not, or if hes getting into his head down position....
Belly Button in or out? Both...in when I lay down, out when I stand up!
Wedding rings on or off? Sadly they are off!! I can still get them on, but my swelling comes and goes and I am terrified they will get stuck on me! So I just decided to take them off while it's still safe! I wear the beautiful pearl/diamond ring my parents gave me for my wedding day on that finger now!
What I miss: Sleep...like that good deep, wake up refreshed sleep!
What I am looking forward to: Visiting my parents and brother and Katie Beth!! Hopefully the doctor clears me for travel tomorrow!!
Weekly Wisdom: Listen to your body...rest if you need to, or heck just want too!
Milestones: With Lena...our potty success story! With Parker...we are just about 4/5 weeks out from full term!! WHAT!!??
Monday, June 20, 2011
31 weeks!!
So I haven't done a pregnancy survey in a while!! Life has taken hold and hopefully I will have a before/after post on some of the house projects that have been consuming our time!! I am going to do a different survey this week..it's one I ran across while reading my surveys with Lena in comparing my two births....
Name: Ashley Belle
Birthdate: 06/06/1986
Current Age: 25
Height: 5'8"
Weight before pregnancy: We won't discuss!! I still had a bit of baby fat to lose with Lena!! ;0)
Current Weight: Still...it's a sore subject for me!
Partner's Name: Joshua Scott
Partner's Birthdate: 12/13/1985
Partner's Age: 25
Partner's Height: 5'10"
Partner's Weight before pregnancy: NO clue
Partner's Current Weight: No clue, but he has moved up a size in jeans since this whole marriage and kids thing!!
.
When did you find out your were pregnant? I, personally, knew about a week or so after Thanksgiving, but we didn't have a positive on the test for a few more weeks!!!
What was your reaction? Total excitement!! We hadn't really decided to "try", but were beginning to feel that we wanted our kids close in age!!
Who did you tell first about the pregnancy? Joshua!! I took the positive test outside to show him while he was working on the yard! LoL, he laughed and told me not to get my hopes up, it was still early!! I just smiled and said no, you're wrong, I am pregnant!
Date of Conception? The week or so after Thanksgiving!!
Due Date? August 22.
Was the pregnancy planned? Yes, and no, it's hard to explain.
How did your parents react? I don't really remember!! I know we told my family and Josh's dad/stepmom on skype!! I'm sure they were happy, but their reactions were not nearly as commical as they were the first time around!
How did your partner's parents react? "see above"
Did you go to the doctor yet? Yuppers.
Did you have your first ultrasound? Yes, I have had several
Do you know the sex? Boy or Girl? Baby Boy
How is the baby's movement? He moves constantly.
How is the baby's heartbeat? It was in the 140s last week!
Baby's name? Parker Scott McCombs.
Who do you think the baby will look like? I am sure he will be just as perfect as his big sister!!
Mom to be's favorite foods? Any and Everything!! I've reached that point in pregnancy where you are just hungry...period!
Mom to be's latest cravings? I don't really have any cravings!!
Mom to be's latest "mom" moment? With an almost 15 month old running around, my day's are FULL of mom moments!
What was the first change you noticed in your body? This time was different! I wasn't nearly as sick...although I did have morning sickness...and my body really didn't look any different until sometime between four and five months! Then I just suddenly had this MASSIVE tummy!!
!
What was the latest change in your body? Just a big ole belly really!! I work out almost daily, and can tell a bit of firming up in my arms and buttocks...hopefully that really pays off after delivery!
What is your sleep schedule? What's sleep?? Between the regular discomforts of gaining almost 20 pounds, having to pee constantly, and a teething toddler....sleep is a foreign word in this house
What is your work schedule? Stay at home mommy's work 24/7
.
What is the last thing you bought for the baby? hmmm probably Christmas gifts...lots of toys!
What was the last thing you bought for yourself? Clothes for now, and some for after birth, earrings...mani pedi! I am definitely spoiling myself a bit more this time around!
Planned birth place? Hospital!!.
Who will be in the room with you? Joshua for sure...I hope!! He is planning on going to FL for a couple of days, and if that happens I will be in Ohio at my parents!! I'm terrified something will happen (i'll be about 34 weeks) and he won't be there!! Hopefully it all goes amazing like last time and we are able to be home, and have my mom in there with us!! If no one else is here, however, she will be taking care of Lena!
Are you going to use drugs? Probably. I know a LOT of people are really against the epidural, but I had an AMAZING delivery last time, and am crazy thankful I had the epi...esp after everything that happened after the delivery! God knows what you need! Just go into it trusting him, and the team of Dr's that you chose!!
How do you think you will react? No idea!! I was really hyper with Lena...well after the drugs kicked in!! I just ate my jello, drake my water, and talked non stop! I should have napped, but the excitement of it all was just too much to handle!! I think I will have some anxiety about not having Lena with me...I hate being away from her. And the obvious fears and praying that all will be ok...plus the excitement of my little boy arriving!! It's hard to say which emotion will take over!
How do you think your partner will react? No clue! He was really analitical with Lena! Had to know how it all worked...was right next to the Dr watching every move!! I don't know when the emotion really set in for him!! We will see what happens now that he's been through it before!
Have you started birthing classes? nope, don't plan to! I did this about a year ago, and feel pretty well educated on all of my choices, and decisions to be made! Plus I am not a shy patient...nothing is off limits to ask when it comes to doctors!! I like to be informed!!
What is the nursery theme? Antique baseball! It's super cute and I can't wait to have it done!
Are you going to breastfeed? Oh yes! I hated when I quit with Lena, but am praying things go more my way this time!! I am looking forward to that one on one time with him.
Name: Ashley Belle
Birthdate: 06/06/1986
Current Age: 25
Height: 5'8"
Weight before pregnancy: We won't discuss!! I still had a bit of baby fat to lose with Lena!! ;0)
Current Weight: Still...it's a sore subject for me!
Partner's Name: Joshua Scott
Partner's Birthdate: 12/13/1985
Partner's Age: 25
Partner's Height: 5'10"
Partner's Weight before pregnancy: NO clue
Partner's Current Weight: No clue, but he has moved up a size in jeans since this whole marriage and kids thing!!
.
When did you find out your were pregnant? I, personally, knew about a week or so after Thanksgiving, but we didn't have a positive on the test for a few more weeks!!!
What was your reaction? Total excitement!! We hadn't really decided to "try", but were beginning to feel that we wanted our kids close in age!!
Who did you tell first about the pregnancy? Joshua!! I took the positive test outside to show him while he was working on the yard! LoL, he laughed and told me not to get my hopes up, it was still early!! I just smiled and said no, you're wrong, I am pregnant!
Date of Conception? The week or so after Thanksgiving!!
Due Date? August 22.
Was the pregnancy planned? Yes, and no, it's hard to explain.
How did your parents react? I don't really remember!! I know we told my family and Josh's dad/stepmom on skype!! I'm sure they were happy, but their reactions were not nearly as commical as they were the first time around!
How did your partner's parents react? "see above"
Did you go to the doctor yet? Yuppers.
Did you have your first ultrasound? Yes, I have had several
Do you know the sex? Boy or Girl? Baby Boy
How is the baby's movement? He moves constantly.
How is the baby's heartbeat? It was in the 140s last week!
Baby's name? Parker Scott McCombs.
Who do you think the baby will look like? I am sure he will be just as perfect as his big sister!!
Mom to be's favorite foods? Any and Everything!! I've reached that point in pregnancy where you are just hungry...period!
Mom to be's latest cravings? I don't really have any cravings!!
Mom to be's latest "mom" moment? With an almost 15 month old running around, my day's are FULL of mom moments!
What was the first change you noticed in your body? This time was different! I wasn't nearly as sick...although I did have morning sickness...and my body really didn't look any different until sometime between four and five months! Then I just suddenly had this MASSIVE tummy!!
!
What was the latest change in your body? Just a big ole belly really!! I work out almost daily, and can tell a bit of firming up in my arms and buttocks...hopefully that really pays off after delivery!
What is your sleep schedule? What's sleep?? Between the regular discomforts of gaining almost 20 pounds, having to pee constantly, and a teething toddler....sleep is a foreign word in this house
What is your work schedule? Stay at home mommy's work 24/7
.
What is the last thing you bought for the baby? hmmm probably Christmas gifts...lots of toys!
What was the last thing you bought for yourself? Clothes for now, and some for after birth, earrings...mani pedi! I am definitely spoiling myself a bit more this time around!
Planned birth place? Hospital!!.
Who will be in the room with you? Joshua for sure...I hope!! He is planning on going to FL for a couple of days, and if that happens I will be in Ohio at my parents!! I'm terrified something will happen (i'll be about 34 weeks) and he won't be there!! Hopefully it all goes amazing like last time and we are able to be home, and have my mom in there with us!! If no one else is here, however, she will be taking care of Lena!
Are you going to use drugs? Probably. I know a LOT of people are really against the epidural, but I had an AMAZING delivery last time, and am crazy thankful I had the epi...esp after everything that happened after the delivery! God knows what you need! Just go into it trusting him, and the team of Dr's that you chose!!
How do you think you will react? No idea!! I was really hyper with Lena...well after the drugs kicked in!! I just ate my jello, drake my water, and talked non stop! I should have napped, but the excitement of it all was just too much to handle!! I think I will have some anxiety about not having Lena with me...I hate being away from her. And the obvious fears and praying that all will be ok...plus the excitement of my little boy arriving!! It's hard to say which emotion will take over!
How do you think your partner will react? No clue! He was really analitical with Lena! Had to know how it all worked...was right next to the Dr watching every move!! I don't know when the emotion really set in for him!! We will see what happens now that he's been through it before!
Have you started birthing classes? nope, don't plan to! I did this about a year ago, and feel pretty well educated on all of my choices, and decisions to be made! Plus I am not a shy patient...nothing is off limits to ask when it comes to doctors!! I like to be informed!!
What is the nursery theme? Antique baseball! It's super cute and I can't wait to have it done!
Are you going to breastfeed? Oh yes! I hated when I quit with Lena, but am praying things go more my way this time!! I am looking forward to that one on one time with him.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Misc..and Lena update!
I realize that since this pregnancy I haven't been keeping up with my blogging. It's one of those things I have let take a backseat to raising a toddler, and baking another one in my belly!! I find that with my down time these days I tend to go more for the shower, a nap, or nourishment!! And trust me, free time is few and far between since Lena has cut out her morning nap! I also feel that my blogging is lacking a sense of purpose. I started out to keep my family (8 hours away) informed, but to be honest we live pretty normal, boring lives! And while I find the antics of my 15 month old absolutely, ridiculously, adorable, I realize that not everyone will share in this sentiment. So I am looking at starting a new blog...I've been going back and forth with this idea for some while now, and feel that once we get all of our household "to dos" done, I am going to go for it!! I'll keep you updated....
On another note...life at this household has been pretty normal. Lena is learning and growing every single day. It's so amazing to get to stay home and watch her grow. I couldn't imagine missing anything from this first year. It also breaks my heart at the same time. Granted I'm pregnant, which calls for crying atleast once a day, but I also find myself sitting down and watching our hospital videos, or going through her picture with a sappy song in the background, tears a-flowin'! Why do I do that to myself!?
She has become so independent lately! Something I can remember desperately wanting...and now wishing I could go back. She does not like mommy and daddy to feed her. She insists on doing it herself. This usually results in more on the floor and in her hair. We have also gone potty a couple of times. We aren't really trying to train her, but since the "poop fiasco" we thought we'd give it a try and see what happens. Some days it goes well, others not so much. So we will just take it slow and see what happens!! (I will say she loves to flush her potty, it sings and daddy has recorded a nice little congratulatory message on there- I think it's creepy but she LOVES it!!)
I can also really see her starting to use her imagination. My parents bought her a playhouse while they were watching her a couple of weeks ago. I love to see her go in it, shut the door, clean something off in her sink, sit at the table, talk on the phone...it's adorable! And I can just see those little wheels turning! We also are enjoying reading more. She has a pretty short attention span, so we may only get through a few pages, but hey whatever!! And she is def. my kid in that she ADORES the television. I swear she could watch Toy Story over, and over, and over. She even knows when her favorite parts are coming!! (note we only really watch any kind of tv when it's time to eat, or we are trying to nap)
Our communication is getting better also. She can't always tell you what she wants, but if you ask the right question she will let you know with a simple "yeah". This has come in handy when she needs a diaper change, but I'd really rather not stick my nose in her bum to be sure!! Have I menioned how adorable she is with babies?? I'm not sure how this came about...be it from me teaching her to be sweet to the dog and her baby dolls, or being around little ones for a few weeks in her music class. But it's almost as if she knows they are fragile. She will hug, and kiss on them, and is genuinely worried when they cry. I guess I also have to chalk it up to her nature. She can throw little fits when she's really tired, or doesn't feel well, but generally speaking she is a sweetie. I can't tell you how many times a day she walks over to me just for a hug or kiss. Or the numerous times she grabs a sippy and just comes over to cuddle in mommy's lap for a moment. That is what I live for!!
Needless to say, our baby is slowly becoming a little girl. Even her haircut is past the point of infant. She is ALL girl...we love our purses, dolls, shoes, and anything just pretty. But she has also become a bit more of a daddy's girl...living for the moment when he gets home during the day!! We are loving every second of this little life. I can not WAIT to see her and Parker grow and learn together!
I truly pray that they love and lean on one another. There is no more amazing relationship than that of a sibling. It's having a best friend that will love you and be there for you despite all of your flaws and mistakes....what a blessing!!
Friday, June 3, 2011
Failing...but I can do it!
I could feel the tears welling up inside as my face turned a bright red. We were at Target, and again Lena was not happy. Her screaming was echoing through the aisles and I could sense the glares of other shoppers. What was wrong with her...she had milk, juice, 3 different kind of snacks, toys, and a mother who was willing do ANYTHING to get her to just stop screaming. It wasn't long until I realized she wanted a bottle, the one thing I didn't pack since we are trying to completely wean her from them. So I threw a pack in the cart. It was there in the baby aisle that I called Josh at work with my meltdown.
I was basically insisting that he leave work now. I had drove 30/45 minutes to Mooresville (where his work is located) just so he could meet me after to help load the groceries in the car. What was I thinking? Of course he can't just go to his boss and explain that his overly hormonal, pregnant wife, was having a meltdown at Target and it was urgent that he left. I knew this. I think what I was needing to hear was..."it's ok, you're a great mom..."!! Instead I got..."Ashley I can't leave work, just go home"!!
GO HOME!!???
I just packed up Lena's room, got her ready, me ready, battled the 98 degree weather, and drove our butts 45 minutes across town!! I am NOT going home empty handed. So I ran through the aisles, with a semi-happy baby (she had found her yogurt snacks, but they were quickly being devoured) trying to beat the crying I knew was about to ensue.
After getting the car, pouring her milk out of sippy into the 3 dollar bottle, I sat in the car and cried. It wasn't long before the four ounces of milk were in her tummy and the screaming began again. I had tried to call my mom for some sort of reassurance, but all I got was a "I don't know what to tell you, I'm at the hospital and can't talk"!! Another fail, I'd forgotten about my Grandmother's surgery.
We drove the 45 minutes back home, both welled up with tears and utter exhaustion. "I can't do this...I have a hard enough time handling one baby when I am out, what am I going to do when that number doubles...and it's two on one" My brain was nothing short of an enemy during that long drive. I was filled with thoughts of complete failure:
"My husband doesn't like me-and for good reason, he's definitely not getting the attention a husband deserves, my house is a mess, the laundry is piled up, my roots look horrible, I haven't had a haircut in months, there's nothing to eat in the house, I forgot the milk, theres a bag of day old dirty diapers stenching up the baby room....SERIOUSLY!!!!!"
Finally making it home, I got Lena stripped, changed, and into an empty pack n play, where I gave her an organic food pouch (one of the few things I successfully got) a fresh bottle of milk, and a sippy of juice, turned on Toy Story, and cried on the couch!!
During that time Josh called, twice, the second time he was greeted with my "what do you want"!! Poor guy, why do I do that! I don't want to yell at him, I don't want to be mean, but it's like this verbal puke that I just can't control, and I HATE myself for it, which isn't helping my self imposed loathing right now- not to mention he's not one of those husbands who realizes I am a hormonal preggo, instead he takes EVERYTHING personally and what develops is an argument based on nothing!! He asks if I need anything, and I blurt out milk (forget the bread, or nourishment for ourselves, atleast our baby will survive)
So I cry, and pity myself, while Lena gladly devours her pouch and bottle, enjoying her movie (of which I am positive by now she can entirely quote) I didn't see any glimmer of light until later that evening! We were all upstairs playing in Lena's toy area...well Josh was napping (I'm pretty sure I resented him for this) when Lena brought over her babydoll highchair, reached out her hands to me, and say "peez" (please) A word I had been attempting with her for sometime now, and she had just used it, correctly. A short lived smile came across my face and I thought...I can do this! I'm not always told I am good mother, I do 90 percent of the work on my own, I don't have my mom's lap to run to and cry everytime something goes wrong (she lives 8 hours away) I am tired, irritable, irrational, unmanicured, and seriously lacking in patience, but everyday my child learns something new because of me!!
I don't get job reviews that let me know I am doing everything right, or a paycheck to measure my worth, and very few thank you's ever embrace my ears, but my days are filled with hugs, kisses, cuddles, and amazement at this life I've created!! I can TOTALLY do this!! If only I could focus more on that stuff when my hormones take rage on my thoughts!!
I was basically insisting that he leave work now. I had drove 30/45 minutes to Mooresville (where his work is located) just so he could meet me after to help load the groceries in the car. What was I thinking? Of course he can't just go to his boss and explain that his overly hormonal, pregnant wife, was having a meltdown at Target and it was urgent that he left. I knew this. I think what I was needing to hear was..."it's ok, you're a great mom..."!! Instead I got..."Ashley I can't leave work, just go home"!!
GO HOME!!???
I just packed up Lena's room, got her ready, me ready, battled the 98 degree weather, and drove our butts 45 minutes across town!! I am NOT going home empty handed. So I ran through the aisles, with a semi-happy baby (she had found her yogurt snacks, but they were quickly being devoured) trying to beat the crying I knew was about to ensue.
After getting the car, pouring her milk out of sippy into the 3 dollar bottle, I sat in the car and cried. It wasn't long before the four ounces of milk were in her tummy and the screaming began again. I had tried to call my mom for some sort of reassurance, but all I got was a "I don't know what to tell you, I'm at the hospital and can't talk"!! Another fail, I'd forgotten about my Grandmother's surgery.
We drove the 45 minutes back home, both welled up with tears and utter exhaustion. "I can't do this...I have a hard enough time handling one baby when I am out, what am I going to do when that number doubles...and it's two on one" My brain was nothing short of an enemy during that long drive. I was filled with thoughts of complete failure:
"My husband doesn't like me-and for good reason, he's definitely not getting the attention a husband deserves, my house is a mess, the laundry is piled up, my roots look horrible, I haven't had a haircut in months, there's nothing to eat in the house, I forgot the milk, theres a bag of day old dirty diapers stenching up the baby room....SERIOUSLY!!!!!"
Finally making it home, I got Lena stripped, changed, and into an empty pack n play, where I gave her an organic food pouch (one of the few things I successfully got) a fresh bottle of milk, and a sippy of juice, turned on Toy Story, and cried on the couch!!
During that time Josh called, twice, the second time he was greeted with my "what do you want"!! Poor guy, why do I do that! I don't want to yell at him, I don't want to be mean, but it's like this verbal puke that I just can't control, and I HATE myself for it, which isn't helping my self imposed loathing right now- not to mention he's not one of those husbands who realizes I am a hormonal preggo, instead he takes EVERYTHING personally and what develops is an argument based on nothing!! He asks if I need anything, and I blurt out milk (forget the bread, or nourishment for ourselves, atleast our baby will survive)
So I cry, and pity myself, while Lena gladly devours her pouch and bottle, enjoying her movie (of which I am positive by now she can entirely quote) I didn't see any glimmer of light until later that evening! We were all upstairs playing in Lena's toy area...well Josh was napping (I'm pretty sure I resented him for this) when Lena brought over her babydoll highchair, reached out her hands to me, and say "peez" (please) A word I had been attempting with her for sometime now, and she had just used it, correctly. A short lived smile came across my face and I thought...I can do this! I'm not always told I am good mother, I do 90 percent of the work on my own, I don't have my mom's lap to run to and cry everytime something goes wrong (she lives 8 hours away) I am tired, irritable, irrational, unmanicured, and seriously lacking in patience, but everyday my child learns something new because of me!!
I don't get job reviews that let me know I am doing everything right, or a paycheck to measure my worth, and very few thank you's ever embrace my ears, but my days are filled with hugs, kisses, cuddles, and amazement at this life I've created!! I can TOTALLY do this!! If only I could focus more on that stuff when my hormones take rage on my thoughts!!
Monday, May 23, 2011
27 Weeks!!!
Total weight gain/loss: Between 10/15 pounds...not sure! Some days it's up due to some swelling and all that fun stuff!! And I've worked out like CRAZY this time around, so I'm going to call alot of that muscle...lol if just for my own sake!
Maternity clothes? Yup, still wearing prepreggo shorts though thanks to my beband!!
Stretch marks? A couple, but they are where all my old ones were...and none in a "noticeable" spot!
Sleep: HORRIBLE...I can not get comfortable, and by the time I do I have to pee, or my leg cramps up, or my arms fall asleep!!
Best moment this week: Taking the leap and going on a vacation, just me and Josh!! It was really hard to leave Lena, I mean it hurt...bad!! But I know she had an amazing time with my parents, and they love love LOVED having her all to themselves! It was really great to see and spend some time with them too!!
Movement: All the time
Food cravings: No, not really!!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Still going through those lovely Braxton Hicks! They actually did an ultrasound at my last appointment to make sure I'm not dialating! Seriously...I have them EVERY DAY...and some of them are so uncomfy I have to stop and catch my breath! It's crazy!!
Belly Button in or out? In, and out!! I think I'm going to have an outie this time!! Esp by the way my belly is growing!
Wedding rings on or off? Both on...for the most part! It was really hot/humid at the beach this weekend and I did swell quite a bit and wasn't able to get them on one day!! Guess that's what I've got to look forward to this summer
What I miss: hmmm...being able to just stand up without it being this big scene! LoL...I wish we had recorded me trying to get up and down in our beach chairs!!
What I am looking forward to: We are buidling a deck, and finally getting started on Parker's room this next month! We've got everything pretty much bought, now it's time to start cracking down on the paint!!
Weekly Wisdom: Remember you are still a "couple", not just parents!! Take that time out to enjoy and reconnect with one another!! It's well worth it, and your baby won't be nearly as upset about your leaving as you are...promise!! :0)
Milestones: This is my last week in the second trimester! Can you believe it?? Josh and I were talking about how fast this pregnancy has flown by this time!! I've got maybe 3 more appointments before I am full term....say what!!??
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Praying for Keegan
It's not very often that a story/person comes along and touches your heart in such a way, that you know they will forever be a part of your life, wether in thought and prayer, or a weekly lunch. I've had the amazing experience of "getting to know" Beth and Mr. Keegan through blogging. I can't remember how I cam across her blog, or if she first read mine, but I can very vividly remember sitting by myself, pregnant, reading their story with tears streaming down my face. I can also remember the blessing felt when there was good news to report on their homefront.
Beth was even so kind to send me a sweet book for Lena a few months back! I have it put away, for fear she will eat and destroy it, in hopes that one day we can sit down together and read this book and I can tell her this amazing story of how it came to be hers.
I'm simply writing this blog to ask you all for prayers for this amazing family. Keegan was diagnosed with cancer a year ago, and after a long battle was doing AMAZING!! This week news hit that he had gone in for his one year MRI and a growth had shown up. I don't have the full details, and won't even attempt to write it all down. I urge you to all visit Beth's blog and learn more about their story:
And to pray for this sweet little boy who has been more of a blessing in my life than he will ever know!
Beth was even so kind to send me a sweet book for Lena a few months back! I have it put away, for fear she will eat and destroy it, in hopes that one day we can sit down together and read this book and I can tell her this amazing story of how it came to be hers.
I'm simply writing this blog to ask you all for prayers for this amazing family. Keegan was diagnosed with cancer a year ago, and after a long battle was doing AMAZING!! This week news hit that he had gone in for his one year MRI and a growth had shown up. I don't have the full details, and won't even attempt to write it all down. I urge you to all visit Beth's blog and learn more about their story:
And to pray for this sweet little boy who has been more of a blessing in my life than he will ever know!
Monday, May 16, 2011
26 weeks
Total weight gain/loss: Ugh...I feel HUGE! My belly has really pooched out, and the swelling...plus the added bloating due to that nice pregnancy irregularity has taken it's toll!
Maternity clothes? Yuppers, finally found a bathing suit that doesn't make me want to lock myself inside all summer!!
Stretch marks? A couple, but they are where all my old ones were...and none in a "noticeable" spot!
Sleep: on and off, I'm so sluggish lately that I feel I could sleep all day, but the more I sleep, the worse I feel...
Best moment this week: hmm there are several, but my favorite will have to be our very first yard sale! It was a definite success...and even though it was hard work, it felt like a big adult milestone had just been crossed!! LoL
Movement: All the time
Food cravings: No, not really!!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Still lots of Braxton Hicks. They are soo much more intense this time around too!
Belly Button in or out? In, and out!! I think I'm going to have an outie this time!! Esp by the way my belly is growing!
Wedding rings on or off? Both on
What I miss: Being comfortable...and I still have 3 months to go!!
What I am looking forward to: Some much needed rest and relaxation for me and hubby this weekend! I am having panick attacks at the thought of leaving Lena, and even Josh is dreading it, but I really don't want my first night away from her to be me in the hospital!! Plus she needs that time with the Grandparents, and I know how excited they are to have her all to themselves...even if I will be calling every 5 minutes!
Weekly Wisdom: It's okay to want to sleep and cuddle with your baby! Sometimes you need them just as much as they need you!! :0)
Milestones: hmm does getting a bathing suit help? And I've still kept up a workout routine, even if pregnancy masks all of the hard work!!
Maternity clothes? Yuppers, finally found a bathing suit that doesn't make me want to lock myself inside all summer!!
Stretch marks? A couple, but they are where all my old ones were...and none in a "noticeable" spot!
Sleep: on and off, I'm so sluggish lately that I feel I could sleep all day, but the more I sleep, the worse I feel...
Best moment this week: hmm there are several, but my favorite will have to be our very first yard sale! It was a definite success...and even though it was hard work, it felt like a big adult milestone had just been crossed!! LoL
Movement: All the time
Food cravings: No, not really!!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Still lots of Braxton Hicks. They are soo much more intense this time around too!
Belly Button in or out? In, and out!! I think I'm going to have an outie this time!! Esp by the way my belly is growing!
Wedding rings on or off? Both on
What I miss: Being comfortable...and I still have 3 months to go!!
What I am looking forward to: Some much needed rest and relaxation for me and hubby this weekend! I am having panick attacks at the thought of leaving Lena, and even Josh is dreading it, but I really don't want my first night away from her to be me in the hospital!! Plus she needs that time with the Grandparents, and I know how excited they are to have her all to themselves...even if I will be calling every 5 minutes!
Weekly Wisdom: It's okay to want to sleep and cuddle with your baby! Sometimes you need them just as much as they need you!! :0)
Milestones: hmm does getting a bathing suit help? And I've still kept up a workout routine, even if pregnancy masks all of the hard work!!
Monday, May 9, 2011
25 Weeks
Total weight gain/loss: No clue! Not too much, other than the belly!!! :0)
Maternity clothes? Yuppers
Stretch marks? No new ones! Yet!
Sleep: Depends on how Lena is feeling at night...
Best moment this week: Celebrating my second mother's day!!
Movement: Tons!! He seems to be awak more during the day now!
Food cravings: No, not really!!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Braxton Hicks, and the occasional cramp.
Belly Button in or out? In, but odd looking!
Wedding rings on or off? Both on
What I miss: Right now...laying out! It's completely horrrible and selfish, but ever since I had to have the skin cancer cut out of the neck, all I can think about is getting my tan on!! I know, I said it was horrible!
What I am looking forward to: Some vacation time with my hubby next week, and getting to see my mom and dad!
Weekly Wisdom: I don't think I have any wisdom for you today!!
Milestones: Settling on a nursery
Maternity clothes? Yuppers
Stretch marks? No new ones! Yet!
Sleep: Depends on how Lena is feeling at night...
Best moment this week: Celebrating my second mother's day!!
Movement: Tons!! He seems to be awak more during the day now!
Food cravings: No, not really!!
Gender: Baby Boy! Parker Scott..
Labor Signs: Braxton Hicks, and the occasional cramp.
Belly Button in or out? In, but odd looking!
Wedding rings on or off? Both on
What I miss: Right now...laying out! It's completely horrrible and selfish, but ever since I had to have the skin cancer cut out of the neck, all I can think about is getting my tan on!! I know, I said it was horrible!
What I am looking forward to: Some vacation time with my hubby next week, and getting to see my mom and dad!
Weekly Wisdom: I don't think I have any wisdom for you today!!
Milestones: Settling on a nursery
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