2012

January.

Chris and I began our last half of School of Discipleship and later on that night, found out we were expecting again.  A few days later we began the annual Daniel Fast with our church which led to some of the most clearly conveyed instructions from God that I've ever experienced.  I developed a severe case of morning sickness that lasted all day, every day.  We began classes at our "new" co-op and made many dear friends.  My friend Kendra introduced me to The Hunger Games.  Jordan turned 6 years old.  

February.  

My uterus tore and I was put on bed rest.  We downsized and moved back into our first home.    I learned that it really is okay to ask for help.  We got a second car, thanks to my parents! We celebrated Shaun's 12th birthday.  

March.

I missed Jordan's first soccer practice due to bed rest.  The boys had an amazing combined birthday party.  Shaun sang onstage during a Kidpak service with the older members of Generation Praise.  Jordan had his first soccer game of the season.  Shaun joined a baseball team and even marched in a parade. My pregnancy progressed and we found out that our baby was a girl.

April.

We celebrated Easter.  God once again showed me just how He provides when our car broke down and our dryer quit...and we had the funds to repair both!

May.

Chris turned 34.  Boys finished up their seasons of soccer and baseball.  We began to get ready for summer.  After much debating, The Hubs and I decided that our daughter would be called Violet Victoria.

June.

We all attended Summer X-treme and grew closer to God.  My friends Kendra, Rachel, and I met Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee.  I sank into the worst bout of depression I've ever experienced.  Georgia sweated it's way through a major heat wave.  

July.

I Went up for prayer during an alter call at church and was delivered from depression once and for all in Jesus' name!  The next week really put my newfound freedom to the test when Chris lost his job.  We were humbled and learned the hard way to depend on God for everything.  The Lord continued to provide for us beyond our wildest dreams.  I was introduced to Duck Dynasty. 
The following week our hearts were broken when our Papaw passed away.  I saw my new OBGYN the day before his funeral and was sent for a 4D ultrasound.  The joy of seeing our healthy baby girl up close took a little of the sorrow away, but I still don't know how we made it through that week.  
We graduated from School of Discipleship and began to pray about what to do next.  Chris was blessed with another part time job as Chapel Pastor at Bethlehem Christian Academy.

August.
The boys and I began the new school year.  Grades 1 and 6!  We went on several "family dates" during our last days as a family of 4. My blood pressure made us worry a little.  I went to the hospital twice for pregnancy related issues. The kids and I went though the back to school prayer line at church and my pregnant stomach was blessed several times. Shaun joined the Kidpak Dancers at church.  Jordan joined Generation Praise.  It began to be a regular occurrence to be asked if I was having twins, and even triplets.  Lori, Kendra, Kelli, and Mandy threw me the most beautiful baby shower I've ever seen.  Chris and I had our 13th wedding anniversary.  Elissa came to visit.  Jordan began soccer practice for the fall season.  Violet was born. 

September.
Violet and I came home from the hospital.  Together, right on schedule.  I'm still thanking God for this.  I recovered from my c-section and we all struggled to adjust to having a baby in the house.  Shaun and Jordan fell head over heels in love with their sister, even though she cried and cried and hardly ever slept at night.  We were all loved on by our friends with meals, encouragement, prayers, and support.  
I made it to Jordan's first soccer game, just one week after having a baby.  I paid for it later-  it was too soon to be out- but it was worth it.  We had our first experience with horrible little league coaches who show favoritism.  

October.
Lots of Fall activities- hockey games, festivals, and Halloween.  I also started Weight Watchers and was able to fit into my pre-pregnancy jeans.  Shaun signed up for basketball. 

November.
Both boys were sick.  This is so rare, it sticks out in my memory.  They're hardly ever sick!  I saw both of my sons perform together for the first time with Generation Praise. My heart was heavy about the presidential election results.  Lori, Kelli, Ashley, Krista, and I attended a Twilight marathon and the premier of Breaking Dawn Part 2.  Violet was sick for the first time.  We began cloth diapering.  The boys began Christmas production rehearsals and we had our first Thanksgiving together as a family of 5.  

December.
Shaun and Jordan were in two Christmas productions.  Violet was sick again with another ear infection and croup.  I was sick, too.  The next week all 5 of us caught a stomach bug.  The week after that, Violet began her third round of antibiotics for a chronic ear infection.  Some friends and I celebrated Kendra's birthday.  The boys and I discovered our area's new community center.  We celebrated our first Christmas as a family of five .  Violet and I shared a birthday.   She turned 4 months old and I turned 32.  

Phew!  What a year it has been.  Full of ups and downs, but we've made it though with God's help.  May God continue to bless us all in 2013!

37 Weeks

I hit 37 weeks on Thursday.  Something happened that I wasn't expecting.  I woke up terrified.  I was 37 weeks pregnant with Jordan when he started having issues.  If I hadn't been at the doctor's office at the right time, who knows what would have happened.  But I was, and everything turned out fine.  I know the fact that I'm 37 weeks today doesn't mean that something's going to go wrong now.  My heart knows that God has everything under control,  but like I told some of my close friends today, my head just won't stop thinking!  I asked several of my friends and family members to pray for me to have peace today.  I only have one more week to be pregnant and I want to enjoy it.  I don't want to spend it being a total neurotic basket case.  

I felt the prayers that were prayed for me that day.  I love it when that happens!  By lunchtime I was calm and collected and the boys and I enjoyed our day.  I had to take them with me to my ultrasound appointment today because all of my babysitters flaked out on me.  Ha ha!  Really, my sister (who is my number one sitter) had to take my niece to Atlanta for a doctors appointment.  My grandmother was watching her other three kids and Chris had to work.  Children are allowed at Dr Allaire's office, so I just took the boys with me.  

At first they wanted no part of it, but I bribed them with a Mellow Mushroom lunch.  After that, it was smooth sailing.

Thank goodness for the Nintendo DS.  They had something to do while we waited.

Once the ultrasound started, the first thing the tech said to me was, "Oh, look.  Baby's practicing her breathing!"

This was such a God-thing,  because one of the reasons we knew something was up with Jordan was because he wasn't breathing at all during his last ultrasound.  God knew what I needed to hear to ease my mind.  We also found out that Violet is weighing in at about 8 pounds, 6 ounces.  Woah.  She's already passed Jordan's birthweight and she's only two ounces behind Shaun's.  And her "real" due date isn't even for 3 more weeks!  I guess we don't have to worry about my high blood pressure restricting her growth!  

Shaun was really interested in the ultrasound, which was a far, FAR cry from the way he felt the last time he went with me!  He couldn't get over the size of his sister's head, which I admit did look quite large.  Thank goodness for c-sections!

Only 5 days left.  To say that we're excited is an understatement.  I'm not sure if they boys are more excited about having seeing their sister or about not having a pregnant mother anymore.  :)

I took this picture yesterday.  The kids and I went to work with Chris and I was listening to his sermon backstage.  

I'm beginning to develop an Instagram addiction.  

Second Glance

I had another ultrasound yesterday.  I posted this picture of Violet on Facebook:

My sister sent a text a few hours later asking me if I saw the other face in the picture.  I told her I didn't know what what she was talking about and she directed my attention to the space between Violet's head and her arm.  I took a second glance and saw it.  Can you?

I sent a text back that said, "OMG!  What is that?"  I was a little worried for a minute.  Could there really be 2 babies in there?  After all this time, could all the doctors have missed one?  I've since come to the conclusion that photographing babies in utero must be like photographing fires.  Sometimes the moving flames can appear to be faces.  Or in my case, sometimes movements in amniotic fluid can appear as a creepy face.   I hope.  

In other news, our appointment was great yesterday.  My blood pressure was... normal!  Can you believe it?  I was so thrilled.  If this keeps up, I will be able to carry Violet for 39 weeks.  She put on a show for her daddy and me- lots of squirms and wriggles and she was playing with her toes.  She stretched her toes apart just the way Shaun did when he was a baby.


He grinned a little when we told him.  I think he's more excited to have her here than I am!

What We Did Today

Today was one of those days where we all kind of went our separate ways.  The Hubs went to work with his dad (thank you Lord!), I had an appointment, and the boys went to morning revival service with my mom and then to a pool party.  The pool party was last minute, they were invited by some members of my parents' church.  Since we didn't know about it beforehand, I didn't send their swimming trunks.  Jordan had a pair at my mom's house already but Shaun was out of luck.  I had locked the house when I left, so he couldn't get his own.  Mama Susie came to the rescue and bought him a new pair.  They all had a good time at the party.  Shaun was able to play with some of his old friends and of course it was nice to swim since it's been so hot lately.  

I had an ultrasound this morning.  My Granny went with me.  She was hoping to get another 3D shot of Violet's face, but it didn't work out.  It seems this baby is now breech.  I had a feeling something was up by her crazy movements last night.  All we could get a clear shot of was her back, so no cute face pictures to post.  We did find out that she has hair.  A lot of hair, apparently.  I'll believe it when I see it.  Both boys were bald babies.  :)  Everything was fine with the ultrasound today... something else to be thankful for.  

After my appointment I was able to come home and take a nap since the kids were still swimming.  I really do have the best mom ever.  They were pretty wiped out when they came home, so our afternoon was spent watching Netflix on the couch.  

Chris got home from work in time for me to make it to my friend Barbara's birthday dinner.  I almost didn't go because I was so tired, but I'm glad I did.  I love that I have church friends who always make me laugh.  Laughter is so good for my soul!  

I came back home and spent some time with my family before the boys went to bed.  Now the Hubs is playing Call of Duty and I'm about to try to go to sleep.  Lori and I are going to a homeschool expo tomorrow so I need lots of rest!

Baby Violet Update

I saw my new doctor again today.  I have to admit that I like this group even better than my other doctors.  They're being very cautious and I feel like Violet and I are in good hands.  This is such a relief!

Because my blood pressure is getting high again, I'm seeing the doctor once a week and also going to a perinatologist once a week for ultrasounds.  Last week at the doctor's office  my blood pressure was significantly high.  Enter the appointments twice a week.  The next morning Chris and I went for the ultrasound.  The baby looked great.  My blood pressure isn't effecting her growth- she weighs over 4 pounds.  One thing was abnormal.  One of her kidneys was slightly enlarged.  The doctor wasn't concerned.  He said it would most likely be normal-sized by the time she's born.  If not, she may have reflux of the kidney and be prone to kidney infections.  Nothing major.  We can live with that.  After she's here, our pediatrician will follow up.  

Today, I went back to the OBGYN.  My blood pressure was a little better, but still high. I wasn't as swollen as I was last week, which is a great sign.  The doctor is watching me for pre-eclampsia.  He doesn't think I'll make it to my due date.  Last week he said we'd shoot for delivering at 38 weeks and today he said that was the goal but most likely it would be earlier.  We will know more and make firmer plans next week when the results of my urine test comes back.  Until then, I'm on restriction again.  I'm off my feet and resting as much as possible.  This is harder than it sounds because we're not ready to have a baby yet!  I thought I had 6 more weeks and now it's looking more like 4 at the most.  We will get it done, we always do.  I don't think I've ever been fully prepared when I've given birth.  Why start now?  Ha!

One more thing.  Violet passed her non-stress test with flying colors today.  The doctor says she sounds absolutely wonderful.  Thank you, Lord!

The Bright Spot

This week has been hard.  My Pawpaw passed away.  His funeral was today and I'm exhausted.  More about that later.  

I had an ultrasound yesterday and Chris and I were blessed to get to see Violet up close and personal.  Here she is!

Chris says she looks like me.  I can see Shaun in her cheeks and nose.  Everyone says he looks just like me, so maybe Chris is right.  

I can't stop staring at her picture!  I'm so thankful that God gave us this sweet glimpse of our daughter during such a difficult time. He knows what we need and when we need it!

7 Sweet Hours

I haven't been sleeping all that well for a while now.  Third trimester insomnia has kicked in, apparently.  I'm tired all day and then when it's bedtime I'm wide awake.  Maybe the fact that little Violet is a night owl has something to do with it.  She really "comes to life" after midnight.  I love feeling her move!  Then, when I finally do go to sleep, I'm just too uncomfortable to sleep for long.  My back hurts when I stay in the same position for too long, and my stomach's getting so big that it's hard to find a comfortable way to lay down, period.  Not too mention all of the nighttime bathroom breaks.  

Last night, however, I had a pleasant surprise.  It was around 2 a.m. when I fell asleep, but I slept through the night until 9 o'clock this morning!  I'm telling you, I felt like a new woman when I woke up!  

I thought all that sleep would refresh me so much that I wouldn't be tired any more until it was time to turn in for the night, but I was wrong.  I sat down to read a little bit while rest of the family played X Box, and I fell asleep reading.  I woke up an hour later and it was time for lunch.  

So weird, and so frustrating.  It's not that I just feel sleepy.  My whole body feels tired. I know.  It's normal and I'll just have to deal with it until September.  At least the Hubs is being nice about letting me rest.  He hasn't even told me not to get used to it. Ha!  

7 Months

So, I'll be 7 months pregnant tomorrow.  I haven't been blogging very much, so in case anyone doesn't know...it's a girl and her name will be Violet Victoria.  Chris and I chose Violet because really, it was the only name we could both agree on.  He actually kept suggesting Twilight names.  Isabella.  Alice.  Seriously!  I love Twilight and all, but I really didn't want to name my girl Bella.  We agreed on Victoria for a middle name because because Chris loves it and we both like the way it sounds with Violet.  Violet Victoria it is!

We chose her bedding the other day and then a few days later the boys and I picked out paint.  Violet will have a violet-colored room.  

The pregnancy is going well, finally!  Things were dramatic for a while, but they've settled down.  My blood pressure has been an issue, but it always is when I'm pregnant.  I finally gained back some of the weight I lost at the beginning.  I won't lie... it hurts to watch the numbers go up, but at least it's for a good cause!  The funny thing is that I actually weigh less now than I did a year ago.  

I really can't believe how fast this one has flown by.  I think it's because of all the doctor's appointments.  I've had a lot more of them than I did with either one of the boys.  That always helps the time go by more quickly.  I've officially graduated to bi-weekly appointments now.  I get to take the yummy glucose test on Friday, and then at my next appointment we'll set a date for the c-section.  Crazy!

Our house is starting to be filled with little dress shoes, headbands, and ruffly shirts.  We can't wait for her to join us!

Meeting Ted and Tosca

Last night, I went with two of my good friends to meet two of our favorite authors.  We drove to Barnes and Noble for a book signing of Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee.  To say we were excited about this book signing is an enormous understatement.  We've been reading Ted Dekker's books for years and I just finished my first "Tosca Lee" yesterday morning.  We were a little starstruck.  Thank goodness the authors were nice!

Here we are before the signing.  We were almost the first ones there, so we had good seats!

It's Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee!

Here are some shots of Kendra, Rachel, and myself with the authors.

Funny thing about this picture... I asked them to sign one of my books for Violet, since Chris had gotten autographed pictures of The Falcons for the boys a few months ago.  Tosca Lee asked who Violet was, and I told her that she wouldn't be born until September.  Ted Dekker exclaimed, "Wow, that's so awesome.  Can I just sign her?"  Ha ha.  A little awkward, but still funny.  I'll have a funny story to tell Violet when she's old enough to understand it!

Violet's autographed copy of Mortal.  As my friend Kendra said, "She'll love it in about fifteen years".  :)

On When We Found Out

From 04-05-12...


I had a doctor's appointment last week. I was expecting an ultrasound. Needing one for my peace of mind. I've been so anxious for the past few weeks. Fear had taken over. I went through this a little when I was expecting Jordan, only not quite so bad. I know I'm overreacting. Lying awake at night and imagining every little thing that could go wrong in a pregnancy is not healthy. I know this. And I know that everything is out of my hands. But I still worry. It's how I am. I hate it, but I've always struggled with worry. Lately, since I've been "off my feet", I've had lots more time to devote to worrying. This is not good. My blood pressure is up. I've been having anxiety attacks and sleepless nights.

So, at last week's appointment, I really needed an ultrasound.

I didn't get one. My tear is healed, and I'm not having any symptoms.  Dr H said he couldn't just make up a reason to give me another ultrasound, and that was that.  I scheduled my next appointment and went out to the car.  And then, my emotions took over.  I googled "Fetal Fotos" on my phone and called them up.  Asked the lady who answered the phone if she had any openings that afternoon.  She did, and I scheduled the appointment.  I realize that this was selfish of me.  Making this appointment for an ultrasound that would tell us the sex of our new baby before even finding out if my husband could get off work to go with me.  As it turned out, he couldn't get off work early.  But as usual, he was understanding of my craziness.  His exact words were, "do whatever you need to do to feel better".  


A few hours later, I was in the car with my mom and the boys.  I had no idea that Fetal Fotos is only about 10 minutes from our house.  We all went inside the office and I had the ultrasound.  I had a twenty minute "baby fix" and I can honestly say that my mind was eased.  And then the big moment came.  The ultrasound tech asked the kids what they thought the baby was- boy or girl.  Of course my children responded with an emphatic, "BOY".  My mother, on the other hand, just knew I was carrying a girl.  The tech grinned and told us that grandma was right... "there's your little girl!".


Little girl.  


Not what I was expecting at all, but such a wonderful surprise.  The world stopped for a minute while my brain registered the news.  I was thrilled.  The boys, on the other hand, were NOT.  They wanted a brother.  Things got a little dramatic.  Have I mentioned that I live in a house full of drama kings?  By the time we dropped my mom off at her house, they were starting to come around.  They still weren't happy, but at least they weren't voicing their negative opinions anymore!  I asked if they wanted to surprise their daddy by going to Wal-Mart and buying something girly for him to open.  Of course, we would also buy the big brothers something too.  They agreed to this whole-heartedly.  I told them they could each pick out one small thing for their sister(!) to wrap up for dad.  Shaun came around the corner with an armload of pink blankets and dresses.  When I gently reminded him to pick one thing he replied, "But Mom.  She will NEED all this stuff!".  That's when I knew he was going to be okay.  


We left the store with a sweet little pair of shoes (from Jordan), a set of girly onesies (from Shaun), and Alvin and the Chipmunks:  Chipwrecked (from me, to my big boys).  They chose an Incredible Hulk bag to wrap it in, and we set out for home.  Of course, The Hubs called on the way home.  I told him that we hadn't been able to determine the sex but that the baby was healthy.  He seemed fine with the news and asked me if I felt better.  He was already in the house when we made it home, so Shaun brought the bag in.  Chris opened it and a look of shock came up on his face.  "It's a girl??" he gasped.  Then his phone rang.  It was Josh from church.  Chris answered the phone and said, "Dude, I just found out that I'm having a little girl!"


Hands down, my favorite memory from that day.  


It's been eight weeks since that day.  The boys have come around and accepted the fate that is their sister.  They're actually excited.  Jordan has felt her move.  Shaun says he'd rather not... what 12 year old wants to touch his mother's stomach... but he's the first one to ask how my appointments go or if the baby's alright.  He even has a nickname picked out for her.  Violet Victoria will be " V V" to her biggest brother.  


It will be a big change.  It's so strange to have little dresses and pink sleepers in the house.  We have about 3 more months until Violet joins us.  If her movement in utero is any indicator, she will be a force to be reckoned with.  I don't remember either of the boys being so strong or active.  She'll fit right in!  I guess we'd better start getting ready.  There's a lot to do.  Cribs and bunk beds to buy, things to register for, and rooms to paint.  This pregnancy has flown by.  It's so crazy to think that we're in this season again.  I'm trying to savor every minute. 

Logic

Easter's tomorrow.  We generally don't go all out on new Easter clothes anymore.  We stopped a few years ago when I realized that we (or my mom) were basically shelling out money for outfits that would only be worn once.  We never, ever get dressed up for church anymore.  The boys like to wear Kidpak t-shirts and the last time I wore a dress, one of the three-year-olds in my class actually got under it. 
Today though, I told The Hubs that I wanted a new outfit.  Since I have lots of maternity clothes, I told him that technically our daughter would be wearing it too.  So it would kind of be like her very first Easter outfit. 
How in the world could he argue with that logic? 
In the end, he didn't buy it.  It was worth a shot!

Results

I went back to the doctor today and heard good news.  God heard our prayers...my "tear" is healing!  Last week it was 4 centimeters long and today it was down to 3 centimeters.  The doctor was even more optimistic than he was last week!
Before the ultrasound, the doctor couldn't find the baby's heart beat.  Very scary, especially since the dopplar picked it up two weeks ago.  We heard it loud and clear on the ultrasound, though.
Thank you, Lord!
I was kind of surprised.  I was actually thinking I'd get the "all clear" today, But Dr C wasn't surprised at all.  He said he wasn't expecting the tear to be completely better.  So I guess I'm on target. 
Until I am completely healed, my activity is still limited.  This is harder than I thougt it would be.  I'm so grateful for my friends and family.  They've cooked, watched my kids, and organized my house.  Don't know where we'd be without 'em!

Pelvic Action

My husband.  He "knows" my doctors because he works with them.  This can be awkward, for obvious reasons.  For example, when I went to the doctor last week and Dr C was explaining to us the conditions of being on "modified bed rest".  He actually looked at my husband and said, "Sorry, no pelvic action".
Ew.
I go back to the doctor tomorrow.  I'm nervous.  I still have my peace, but I'm nervous. 
Please pray with us for my healing and a safe baby.
Hopefully all will be back to normal soon.

My Tuesday

5:00 a.m.  First alarm rings.  Hit snooze, nudge The Hubs awake and fall asleep again.
5:30 a.m.  Second alarm rings.  Really nudge The Hubs and ask if he's planning to go to work today.  Fall asleep again.
7:30 a.m.  I am unexpectedly awakened by my alarm which was set for yesterday.  I turn it off and go back to sleep.
8:30 a.m.  The real alarm goes off.  I hit snooze,  roll over, go back to sleep. 
8:35 a.m.  Alarm goes off again.  I get up and take some Zofran so maybe I'll feel like eating breakfast. 
I begin to get ready for the day.
8:43 a.m.  Miss a call from my friend Elia because I'm still in the bathroom. 
8:55 a.m.  Wish I had more of my own clothes, most of which are over at the old house.  Settle for a pair of Chris' sweats and one of his shirts, too.
9:00 a.m.  Hear the boys scurrying around.  Ask if they'd like some eggs for breakfast. 
9:05 a.m.  Boys get dressed for co-op (I had decided to skip today but Jordan really wanted to go to his science class) while I scramble some eggs.
9:15 a.m.  Boys and I sit down at the table, which was brought over last night.  We have prayer and eat our eggs without salt.  Because our salt is still at the other house.
9:30 a.m.  Shaun finishes his eggs and asks for some of last night's Shepherd's Pie.  I make a mental note to ask Wendy for the recipe.
9:45 a.m.  I load the dishwasher while the boys brush their teeth.  They then go outside to wait on their Mama Susie, who has generously offered to take them to school.
9:55 a.m.  Boys leave for school.  I get comfy on the couch.
10:00 a.m. -11:30 a.m.  Return Elia's phone call, read, pray, try to determine if the crampy feeling in my abdomen is regular pregnancy stuff or something to worry about.  Decide on the former.  Marvel at how quiet the house is.  Text a few friends, answer some emails. 
11:35 a.m.  Realize that the kids will be home soon.  They wanted hot dogs for lunch so I begin getting it ready.
11:40 a.m.  My mom calls and says the boys want to stay at school longer and will just eat lunch there.  I decide on what to have for lunch myself (WW Smart Ones-  Lasagna Florentine and some spinach)  and put it in the microwave.
11:45 a.m.  Return to the couch and begin this post while waiting for lunch to heat up.  Get caught up and forget about lunch until...
12:04 p.m.  Eat.  I realize I haven't vomited since last Thursday and say a prayer thanking God for Zofran.
12:20 p.m. Decide to move to my bed.  Get comfy.  The Hubs sends a text to check on me.  I answer it, let him know I'm fine.  Begin to panic a little about the boys' birthday party.  Its on Saturday and nothing's planned yet.  I don't even have anything to write with, so I make a mental note to tell Chris to bring all of our school supplies back from the other house this afternoon so that I can begin making making my shopping list.  Decide to read some more.
12:33 p.m.  Look up from my book and wonder what I'd see if I had a pair of binnoculars...I look straight out of my window from my bed, directly at the house across the street.  This makes me wonder what Wayne, my across the street neighbor, would see if he had binnoculars.  I decide maybe I should close my curtains.
1:00 p.m. Kids come home, show me what they did at school, and go outside to play.  I visit with my mom for a few minutes before she leaves.  Check Twitter and Facebook.  Discover that my friend Vicki is bringing a Mexican casserole for dinner tomorrow.  Look forward to seeing her.
1:30 p.m.  Jordan bursts into the door to announce that he has to poop.
1:33 p.m.  Shaun also comes inside to use the restroom.  I laugh at them.  They are quite funny.
2:30 p.m.  Take some more Zofran
2:36 p.m.  Boys ask for a snack and they want it to be a hot dog.  I decide to pick my battles and let them have one.  Then I get back on my bed.
2:45 p.m.  Miss a call from The Hubs because I'm in the bathroom. 
2:49 p.m.  My neice sends me a text,asking if the boys can come play.  Since her siblings are sick, I suggest she come play here.  I do not get a reply, which leads me to suspect that she has hijacked my sister's phone.
3:04 p.m.  Remind the boys to clean up their snack mess in the kitchen.
3:15 p.m.  Chris comes home from work.  Jordan tells me that Daddy came home with a puppy.  Thankfully, he was "just telling a joke".
3:30 p.m.  AT&T breaks the news that we are too far from the road to get UVerse. 
3:35 p.m.  My parents come over to help Chris finish up some projects.  My mom wants to know how bored I am, asks if I'd like some jigsaw puzzles, and tells a funny story about my dad from before I was born.  I move back to the couch to watch some footage of Jordan at yesterday's soccer practice. 
4:00 p.m.  The kids continue to play outside while Chris and I visit with my parents.
5:00 p.m.  It begins to rain, so the kids come unside and my parents go home. 
5:05 p.m.  I grab a handful of Cheeze-its and go back to my bed because the boys want to play X-Box in the living room.

6:30 p.m. My sweet friend Jessica comes over with tons of delicious food. It was great to talk to her! 7:00 p.m. Stuffed from dinner, I return to the couch. 7:30 p.m. Desperate to get out of the house, I drive to the other house to get some of the kids' school books and my Willow Tree figurines. 7:45 p.m. Back at home, on the couch. 8:00 p.m. Chris and the boys go back to the other house to move some more things and I read the latest issue of Entertainment Weekly. 9:00 p.m. They return home. 9:15 p.m. Chris leaves for the grocery store. 9:30 p.m. I lay down with Jordan. He wants a story about how Chris and I kissed when we got married. 9:45 p.m. Lay down with Shaun. He wants to talk about how annoying Jordan was today. I listen and then remind him that I never got along with my sister either and now that we're all grown up, we're best friends. He wanted to hear that about as much as I did when I was his age. 10:15p.m. The Hubs comes home from Kroger with everything on the list...and much more. 10:20 p.m. We begin to watch "The Help". 1:09 a.m. Movie's over. The Hubs is sacked out on the couch. Kids are sacked out in Shaun's bed. Think I'll go to bed myself. And there you have it. My Tuesday. Was that exciting or what? I've never been quite bored enough to chronicle my day. Don't be too jealous. ;)

Baby News

The Hubs and I went back to the doctor early yesterday morning. He did another ultrasound and saw a tear in my uterus. This may have been caused by my violent gut-wrenching vomiting. Or not. Sometimes it just happens. Dr C did prescribe some Zofran to help with the nausea and so far it's working. He is very optimistic that the tear will heal on it's own and wants to see me again next week. In the meantime, I'm on modified bed rest. This means pretty much staying off my feet which should be interesting considering I home school two very active boys. My mother has been a great help, as usual. I'm so blessed to have the parents that I have.

The Dr did say that I could get out some. I just don't need to be out and about for more than two hours at a time. Out to dinner is fine- which is how I managed to have birthday lunch with Shaun. Going to church is fine. I guess the doctor doesn't realize that going to church is an all day affair for us. Ha ha! I laughed a little when he said that. Long shopping trips are out- which is why Shaun and dad went shopping without me. I did, however, venture in to Lowe's to pick out new flooring. Did I mention that we're moving? Very soon? But that's a different post.

Our (growing!) baby looked great again yesterday. Heart rate in the 180s and we are able to make out little facial features. This baby likes to have it's hand up near it's face, just like Shaun and Jordan did. So precious. If you pray, please continue to pray for us. I still have my peace, but covet your prayers.

That's all for now. I imagine I'll be blogging quite a bit if for no other reason than sheer boredom. Ha!

Peace

The Hubs and I spent a few hours in the E.R. tonight. Right before leaving for church I began cramping and bleeding. The doctor's office was about to close, so they sent us to the hospital.

Of course, I was crying and freaking out. Because that's me. It's what I do. But somehow, between our house and and the restroom at the hospital my heart experienced peace.

Remember that verse of "I've Got The Joy Down In My Heart" that goes "I've got peace that passes understanding down in my heart"? Well, for the first time in my life I think I really understood what that verse is talking about. The really cool part is that this peace came before we knew everything was okay. In fact, I was positive that we were losing our baby. I had been crying since we left our house and sniffling the whole time we'd been at the hospital. Then, as I was changing for my ultrasound, it happened. I swear that God Himself came into that restroom with me, wrapped me in His arms and gave to me a peace I didn't know was possible. At that moment, whatever the outcome of that ultrasound, I knew I'd be alright. It really was unbelievable.

So I had the ultrasound. The good thing and the bad thing about having a husband who works at your hospital is that everyone knows him. There were lots of introductions and awkward bouts of small talk. The ultra sound tech joked around with us and then told Chris to sit at my head so that he couldn't see the screen while she was working. After it was over I was able to relay my epiphany to Chris. The relief on his face made me cry a little more. And then we were sent back to my room to wait on the doctor.

And wait we did. For like an hour. While we were waiting, a nurse came in and started fluids. And we waited and waited. And I knew... just knew that we had lost our baby and I was being prepared for a D and C. And that was okay. I still had peace. I had been in contact with a few close friends through texting. One of them sent a text at that time asking how things were going. I told her that I was okay with whatever the outcome was. Then finally the PA came in and the first thing she said was, "Great news. Heart's beating 183 beats a minute".

Now, I must admit that I don't know the first thing about fetal heart rates, so I asked her if that was good. And she assured me it was. My hormone levels and blood work were also good. I was told that our baby is okay for now but that I was at risk of miscarrying because of the bleeding. And that I was to be on bed rest until 8:30 tomorrow morning when the doctor's office opens.

So here I am. It's 12:35 and I can't sleep. I'm feeling much, much better. Just not tired at all. And still very, very peaceful. Am I nervous about the appointment tomorrow? Of course. But in my heart, I know He has a plan for me and I'm at peace with whatever that plan may be.

If you pray, please be in prayer for us in the morning. Pray that our baby is safe and healthy and that I never lose this peace in my heart.

Sick

Here are some of the places I've thrown up in lately:

* Church- main campus.

*Church- north campus.

*Papa's Pizza.

*The kids' co-op.

*Target.

*The Georgia Aquarium.

*My own bathroom.

*My mother's bathroom.

*My friend Vicki's bathroom.

*My Granny's bathroom.

*McDonald's.

*Kroger

*Any other place I've visited, with the exception of Chick Fil A.

I am so, so thankful for this pregnancy but ready for some relief from this constant sickness. This is my third time around with this, but the morning sickness... um... Noontime sickness? Night sickness? The sick-all-the-time thing is new to me. Even Jordan has been telling people, "Did you know that I'm going to be a big brother? My mom throws up all the time now". Nice. I'm getting ready to try Sea Bands and some ginger root tea tomorrow. I'm also open to any and all helpful suggestions. Or even un-helpful suggestions. Something's gotta give, right?

Some people have speculated that the reason this pregnancy is different is because I'm having a girl this time. Not sure if I believe that...I dreamed I had a boy just the other night. He was really cute and had lots of curly hair, if anyone's interested. Some say I just have more hormones this time. Maybe. I am behaving like an emotionally unstable crying freak all the time. Would that constitute an influx of hormones? It's funny, really. The things I freak out about lately. Like the other night when The Hubs went to the store for milk and made the sad mistake of bringing home whole milk instead of skim. That night was special. I'm so glad he hasn't made a run for the hills yet.

But back to the sick thing. Seriously, I need some help. I'm willing to try anything. If anything has worked for you, your sister, or even your great-aunt back in the olden days- please share the wisdom. I'll be eternally grateful.

meeting the peanut

I had my first official OB appointment today, and Chris and I were so blessed to be able to "meet" our new little peanut. Chris calls the baby a peanut. So I guess I will, too.

The appointment went well. One funny thing was that we were asked by several nurses if this was our first baby. They all seemed so surprised when we announced that this was indeed our third baby because, and I quote, "You both look too young to have three children". I took that as a definite compliment, even though I think we look every bit- if not more- as old as we actually are.

I was worried about this appointment. I had prepared myself for every possible scenario that could have went down today. In fact, when the ultrasound began I had my eyes closed until I heard a heart beat. It was music to my ears. I know living in fear is no way to go through a pregnancy, or life for that matter. My faith is really lacking in this area. I've had two NICU babies, and I just always expect the worst. I would appreciate any prayers for this. I want to be able to expect the best, not the worst. Hopefully I'll get there soon.

Like I said, the appointment was good. I love my doctor and feel comfortable that he'll take good care of us. He did such a good job with Jordan. I'll have to write about his birth story soon. There are some extremely funny parts to it!

We were kind of surprised today because the ultrasound revealed that I'm not as pregnant as I thought I was. Previously, my due date was September 4, which put me at 7 1/2 weeks. Today my due date was changed to September 13, which means I'm only 6 weeks and 1 day pregnant. So, I was only 4 weeks pregnant when I took my first test. No wonder I was acting hormonal! Apparently I ovulated later than I thought. Those ovaries of mine are always causing confusion!

I can't end this post without mentioning that Shaun requested prayer for me at co-op yesterday. Unprompted and in front of everyone he announced that his mother was pregnant and that he was praying for everyone to be healthy. I love him, and I love that he has such a tender heart.

our number 3

Yup, I'm pregnant.

It's so strange to see those words. I think I'm still in shock! We found out almost two weeks ago. We were going to keep the news to ourselves until the second trimester, but when have I ever been able to keep big news to myself? I know a lot could happen between now and then and, honestly, I'd love to have everyone praying for us.

Here's how it happened. Well, not exactly how it happened, but you know what I mean...

In November I realized that I was about to turn 31 years old. Something about that number made me sad... I've never wanted any more children but 31 is close to 35 and I'd always heard that women who have babies after they're 35 are considered "high risk". So I began entertaining the idea of maybe possibly wanting another one before it was too late. Honestly, I didn't think it would happen. Getting Jordan was a journey. I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. After a few months of trying for Jordan my doctor gave me this diagnosis and told me that if I wanted another baby we needed to make it happen by the time I turned 25. Apparently symptoms worsen with age. I began taking medication and, after 8 months of heartbreaking letdowns, we found out we were expecting.

Jordan was born, and we were good. I never, ever thought I'd want another one. Ditto for Chris. That was six years ago. I continued to have POS. After I turned 30 I really thought that I couldn't get pregnant again. Maybe that's why it was so easy for us to admit that maybe we wanted another one? I'm still trying to figure that out. Anyway, in November I began to toy with the idea of trying to conceive again. I brought up the idea to Chris and was so surprised that he felt the same way I did. We "officially" began trying for another one around Thanksgiving, fully expecting to still be trying months and months from then.

My cycle had been regular to the day for the past three months. On my birthday I told Chris I was a few days late. He just laughed and reminded me that I had always gotten my hopes up in the past only to have them crushed with a negative test. I decided he was right. And besides, none of the pregnancy tests were on sale at Rite Aid. So I let it go.

On January 2nd our classes at School of Discipleship started back up. Let me tell you, I was a beast that day. I'd been really tired since Christmas and that day, I'd never been more exhausted. I actually took a four hour nap that afternoon. We were at the mall before classes and I was so grouchy! At one point I looked at Chris and said, "Look, I know I'm being unreasonable, but I can't seem to stop. So I'm just going to walk away from you for a while." The Hubs claims to have known the truth at that exact moment. Ha ha!

After class we stopped at Kroger, and low and behold: pregnancy tests were on sale. So I bought one. And Chris made fun of me and warned me not to be disappointed if the results weren't what I wanted. I was annoyed at the time, but it was really sweet of him. He had to deal with me each time I took a negative test six years ago and I never thought much about how that was for him.

The kids and Chris had a "slumber party" in the living room that night. They watched a movie and I cleaned the kitchen. I went to take the test fully expecting it to be negative. And at first it was. I shrugged and began to brush my teeth. When I was done there was definitely a big red plus sign on that test. "Um... Chris...?" And then he called back, "Are you serious? That's so cool!"

I sent this picture to my mom, sister, and a few friends:
This resulted in many hysterical phone calls and texts of congratulations. Except from Kendra, who didn't notice she had a text from me until the next afternoon when I sent her another text asking if she'd gotten my previous text. To which she replied "no". And then five minutes later came the phone call. Love her!

We told the kids the other night. Shaun rolled his eyes in typical pre-teen drama and said, "Are you serious?". But now he's the one who can't stop telling people.

My favorite response so far has been from my friend Joanne. She said, "Woah. I guess God healed your ovaries!"

Yes, I guess He did!

I went to the doctor last week. He confirmed the pregnancy, gave me a due date of September 4, and told me to come back next Friday for an ultrasound.

I've been sick this time, more so than I was with the others. The tiredness is what's really getting to me.

I know its so early, but like I said, I would rather have people praying for us than keep this to ourselves. So if you pray, please agree with us for a boring, drama-free pregnancy and a healthy, happy child in late August!