are you full?

i started reading acts (the 5th book of the new testament) a week or so ago.  maybe i've skipped over it in the past.  i've heard stories out of it -here and there- i'm sure. 
anyway, it is an account of the happenings directly after the gospel books of jesus' life.  (fancy it was placed directly after the gospel books...)  anyway, luke wrote it and it talks a lot about being filled with the holy spirit.  it makes me question what we, as modern day non-pentecostal christians describe as being spirit-filled.  you can tell that when luke describes the filling that it is something observable and dramatic... much like the pentecostal christians ... act (?wrong word?) it. 
what are your thoughts on this???  if you don't know what i'm talking about, read some of acts.  i'm only on chapter 8-9, so you don't have to read much to figure out what i'm referring to. 

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

4 weeks post partum and 4 weeks old

Total weight gain: i  weighed myself at my mother-in-law’s house last week and I was down to my approximate pre-pregnancy weight.  that would be about 20-30 lbs over what i should be as a normal healthy 30-y-o woman .

Maternity clothes:  currently I’m finding myself in between maternity clothes and regular garb.  I haven’t changed out my wardrobe yet, so I’m still sporting around my summer maternity ware happily because I don’t get to wear it much and it doesn’t look that bad on me right now.  I think this next week I’ll do a switcheroo of my closet though because my summer maternity ware isn’t very voluptuous.   

Stretch marks:  they sure look funny now that they’re not all stretched out.  My belly is at a very jiggly stage.   I am planning on loosing approximately 20-30 pounds and wonder what it’ll look like then!!!    

Sleep:  i sure love to sleep on my back and all stretched out again!  Oh… it feels glorious!  I can sleep however I want and it is so comfortable!  I sleep from about 10pm until about 3-4-5am each night interrupted.  At about 3-4-5am I have a little whimper wake me and I gladly wake right up and feed the whimperer.      
Best moment this week:  I got my birth pictures back (via a slide show).  It was so amazing to watch the show and reminisce the birth of sweet princess buttercup.  Otter pop and I have watched it several times almost every night since we got it.  Wow.  What a great way to preserve such a miracle memory!!!!

Miss anything:  I miss my moving belly.  I love having the baby on the outside of me, but I love being pregnant and I already miss that big kicking squirming belly to rest my bowl on.  J
Movement:  the only movements I get nowadays are bowel movements.  And they’re rather regular. 
Food craving:  wow.  YES!  Peanut butter!  Peanut butter and graham crackers to be specific, but peanut butter on waffles will work, as will peanut butter and jelly sandwiches…  It’s really rather weird.  I’ve never liked peanut butter.  But I do now, and I think I might have to give it up!

Anything making you queasy or sick:  nothing abnormal.
Gender: female.
Labor Signs:  nothing.  Well, I am bleeding a little still.  But just barely and I don’t think that’s a labor sign anyway. 

Symptoms:  no more heartburn, no contractions every day (or any day), no large and heavy pregnant belly, no sore back from the large and heavy belly, no cervix pain with (or without) the contractions, no energy loss, no butt-hook, no shortness of breath, and no complete lack of motivation almost all of the time (or any of the time), no swollen ankles and feet...  nothin' worth complaining about.  In fact, nothin’ at all!!!
Belly Button in or out?  in
Wedding rings on or off? on.  Happy or Moody most of the time:  happy, but with twinges of unexpected and unpredictable grumps throughout each day.  This is one thing that HASN’T changed in the past two months.  L 
Looking forward to:  the journey of mothering 6 fine children!  So far it’s been great!

My biggest adjustment has been managing my time.  Since I was diagnosed with major butt-hook for the last 2 (at least) months of my pregnancy –getting worse and worse as the days went by--- I’m not having a hard time sitting down to nurse my babe every 4 hours.  In fact that’s been the easiest thing to do.  The thing I’ve had a hard time doing is anything else.  I just have still been in the butt-hook groove of sitting and cuddling and hanging out with my wee ones on the couch.  That is, until about a week and a half ago when I realized what kind of slump I was in and started working on it.  Now I’m trying to find the happy medium where I’m productive with the time that I’m not boob-hooked and where I don’t get so wrapped up in getting all this stuff done that I haven’t been able to do for months and realize I have several little ones around me needing guidance, training, and lovins.  And then to beat that over the head for me, the weather has also warmed up (greatly… as in the 80s) and the outside work is now calling my name too… and the outside play.  So, I’m trying to write up a list of things to-do each day and get them done AND get some play time in as well.  It just doesn’t seem like there are enough hours in my day…  crazy how things can turn around in just a month’s time.

So now onto the 4-week-old part of this post:

Buttercup lost the top part of her hair this past week.  It, literally, came out in the wash.  I was giving her a bath and swiped the washcloth over her head to wash her hair and off swiped the hair instead of whatever it was I could clean out of it (as if it even NEEDED cleaning!!!!)  I was so sad –and shocked!  I just wanted to un-swipe it back on.  Seriously.  L

Buttercup has really started sleeping even better at night and then waking up with some major happy face.  It’s so adorable.  We all love to gawk at her smilin’ face and smile back and giggle at her.  She’s a doll!  The past few nights she’s stretched her 6 hours out to 8 and even 9…  it’s nice of her and I appreciate it. 

We had  a baby shower this past week.  It was given to me by a dear friend who I love so much.  It was the most fun party I’ve ever gone to and it was great that I knew everyone there!!!  I love parties like that… they’re never like that though.  But this one was.  It was great also because we didn’t sit around pretending like we’re ladies and such… we all got to make sweet buttercup some onesies.  You heard me right.  We made onesies at a baby shower!  I tell you, this party-throwin’ lady is AWESOME!  Anyway I left feeling totally blessed and loved… and then the next morning it hadn’t warn off.  I just had a great big smile and a happy warm and fuzzy feeling inside of me.  It was great.

buttercup is nice and alert.  she likes to have her "awake" time although she's still sleeping for the majority of the day.  she has beautiful big, alert eyes that are starting to focus in on objects.  it's cute.  she knows who i am and finds me when i'm close enough for her to see.  i like that. 

i have had to start using two wipes on a few of buttercup's diapers... so that says a little something about her growth.  right?

And then last, but certainly not least, as buttercup hit her 4^th week birthiversary she (and we) welcomed a new member into our family: Buttercup’s little cousin was born!!!!  Yeah for cousins being born!!!  It was a special delivery 4 weeks after buttercup and nearly identical ---well, very similar I guess--- birth stats.  It’s great to see pictures of a ‘nother newborn weighing almost the same and measuring out almost the same as my not-so-newborn (comparatively at least).  We’ve seen pictures, but even better, we (buttercup, otter pop, and i) get to meet her in person in a few days.  ---I know this because I’m writing this post as we drive to see her… I just am going to post it when I should have -2 days ago.  So, I’ll make sure and get pictures galore of the two sweet cousins together.  How exciting!!!

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

3 weeks

it's been 3 little weeks since buttercup has joined us, her family, on the outside of my body.  here's what we think of her:
starboy:  she's really aweeesa.  i lub her.  she's my favorite.
boo:  i really love she and she so cute.  i hope she don't cries.  she's just my little sister and my sweetie.  shes eyes are so cute. 
jones:  she's so cute.  her feet are soooo tiny.  i wish she could grow up to play the wii.  i like to hold her because her face is so cute. 
binkins:  fine.  good.  she's so sweet.  she's an angel.
wolfie:  she's small and fragile.  she's quiet. 
me:  she's awfully sweet. 
otter pop:  i love her, she's the sweetest thing God put a nose on. 

i had to take the sweet cute little one to the dr today.  she started complaining yesterday and wanting to be held in a specific way.  she's had a little nagging pathetic baby-cough for the past week... i kinda thought she might have an ear ache...  she did and she does.  and she now weighs a whopping 9lb.7oz.  ---she's really packing on the weight!!!  (sarcasm)

her belly button still kinda looks weird, but it's an innie now, so that's nice.

her hair is growing nicely.  she's a definite fuzz head now.

she poops and pees regularly.  is healthily hydrated.  and she needs a bath...

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

E.A.S.T.E.R.

some people ditch the traditional "easter" and replace it with "resurrection day".  i don't.  but it's not because i don't believe that Jesus was resurrected.  i do!  i'm just a little more traditional, i guess. 

E is for EVERYONE.  Jesus died for everyone.  every single last one of us...
A is for ATONEMENT.  atonement means the satisfaction for a wrong.  it's like a bail out.  Jesus' death on the cross is our atonement for our sins.  He died to FORGIVE every single sin we confess and ask forgiveness for!
S is for SALVATION.  Jesus died for everyone, to forgive our sins.  we all are sinners.  not a single one of us has lived a blameless life...  through his forgiveness, we can have salvation!
T is for THANKSGIVING.  the thanks we should have for His gift of salvation is immeasurable.  He died to save us from hell.  hell is the eternal separation from God after our earthly body dies...
E is for ETERNAL LIFE.  the gift is this:  through the life, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, we are allowed eternal life...  by eternal life, i mean that after our earthly body dies, our souls can be united with God in heaven, spending the rest of eternity worshipping and praising Him, the ONE TRUE GOD. 
R is for RECEIVE.  only those who accept the gift by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ shall be given the gift.  i hope that YOU will accept HIS gift, through faith, and RECEIVE eternal life in Heaven!

do you want scriptural verses to back this poem up?  email me and i would be glad to lead your through His plan of salvation through His word, THE HOLY BIBLE. 

HAPPY EASTER! 

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

2 weeks

well, last week's "update" idea sucked.  and i didn't get any better ideas from my trusty readers... maybe i don't have any trusty readers...  :(
ok, so what is it that I WANT TO REMEMBER about the first two weeks?

hm...

well, after we got home from the hospital we realized that we really had created a sweet bundle of cuddle.  she LOVES to snuggle and it's so apparent -even in these first 2 weeks- that she loves to be touched, held, skin-to-skin.  we've had to wean her away from us, so that she'll sleep in her own bed at night.  i'm too paranoid to co-sleep, so when she demanded to be sleeping with us, it pretty much meant that she'd sleep and i'd just snooze a little off and on (in a sitting up position). 
buttercup came out of the womb ready to poop... in fact, she slipped a little out even while she was IN the womb.  but we went through a 20-pack of diapers in two days at the hospital.  they were poopy almost every single time!  just so you know, that is a lot of poopy diapers for a newborn!  since i breastfeed, i knew she wasn't really eating anything...  she was shrinking dramatically with the output and no intake!  at discharge i think they said she weighed 8lb. 10oz.
she was also very very gassy.  she'd let out these farts that could honestly clear the room if it weren't for her sweet cute face needing kissed 24/7.  when we got home, the second night she was in such pain from that rank smell eating her insides she cried for 3 hours straight.  that would have been rough even during the day, but it just so happened it was from 2 to 5 in the morning... on the night before otter pop's return to work!  it was heartbreaking.  and there wasn't anything i could do to help her...
my wonderful, awesome, sweet sister came up to help with the kiddos on the monday and tuesday after her birth.  -we were in the hospital until sunday evening.-  however, my mother-in-law decided that she wanted to keep the kiddos, so my sister came up anyway and brought all her cleaning supplies.  we got to hang out and then as i rested and recouped, she cleaned our house!  hot diggity dog i hit the jackpot when she was born!!!!!  (my sister, i'm referring to... but buttercup too.)
[insert aunT pictures here]
on wednesday, my mommy came to help, however my mother-in-law still had the kiddos... so once again, i was blessed with some great company!  we made a jont to the store and bought some items and played some games and had a gay old time... 
[insert mammy pictures here]
the kids got dropped off wednesday night and it was great to see them and for them to see us and really meet their baby sister.  they still, even now, are having a hard time calling her by her name.  they refer and introduce her as our new baby, buttercup!  it's kinda cute and i remember the same thing happening with starboy. 
boo and starboy were a bit under the weather with some nasty coughs.  boo was almost over it, but man that little starboy sounded like death had hit him as he'd get his cough attacks!  as the week progressed and the weekend drew nearer, jones and binkins also started the coughing.  my mom left on friday night and we entered the weekend ready for some fun. 
school resumed on monday and the kids were excited and ready to go back and tell everyone about their new baby sister. 
this past week has been a great one of adjusting and getting back into our routine.  the kids all have adjusted really really well to having a baby in the family again.  even little buttercup is adjusting great!  she is on a good routine with her napping and eating. 
she eats every 4 hours during the day and goes for 6 hours once during the night.  she poops and pees very very very very frequently.  she sleeps pretty much every 4 hours too.  it goes like this: eat, poop, eat, pee, look around... sleep. repeat. 
my milk came in and passed me right through engorgement very quickly.  by very quickly, i mean that i was swollen for about 24-48 hours tops.  i was given some supplements, by a friend, to help with with my supply as i have struggled to make enough milk with the others.  they definitely helped!!!  in the past few days i think i might be making a little too much as i'm feeling VERY full between feedings, or close to feeding time... 
sweet buttercup is so easy going.  she's a sweet sweet blessing to be around.  she had her blood test today where they prick her foot and fill up four circles with her blood... pku or something...  and she slept right through it!  i'm not kidding.  she didn't wake up at all.  she doesn't spit up ---first out of all of mine that hasn't.  she doesn't fuss much and when she does, it's not very loud.  she's tolerant of anyone holding her.  she's just fantastic.  she doesn't even ask for the pacifier! 

i've changed approximately 100 diapers as of tuesday...  thank the lord for saving money through cloth ones!!! 

anything else?  just ask!!!

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

1 week

i enjoyed doing my weekly pregnancy update so well that i decided to make one up for the weekly progress (hopefully with weekly photo updates) of my sweet buttercup. 
this week i copied and pasted a developmental checklist that i'll yea or nay to.  i'll try and think of some good updates, but please feel free to leave some ideas in the comments for me to add to next week's questionaire!

you can't really tell by this pic, but he's really REALLY happy and proud!  --just not very photogenic.

he had hold tight of everything precious to him... his baby sister, and his car!

how old?  1 week

• Lifts head for short periods of time - yes
• Moves head from side to side - yes
• Prefers the human face to other shapes - no
• Makes jerky, arm movements - yes
• Brings hands to face - yes
• Has strong reflex movements - no
• Can focus on items 8 to 12 inches away - no
• May turn towards familiar sounds or voices - sometimes
• Responds to loud sounds - no
• Blinks at bright lights - yes
• Smiles - yes
• Tracks objects with his eyes - no
• Makes noises other than crying - no
• May repeat vowel noises, such as "ah" or "ooh" - no
• Raises head and chest when put on tummy - no
• Lifts head up 45 degrees - no
• Kicks and straightens legs when on back - no
• Open and shuts hands - no
• Pushes down with legs when placed on a hard surface - sometimes
• Reaches for dangling objects - no
• Grasps and shakes hand toys - no
• Tracks moving objects - no
• Begins to imitate sounds - no
• Recognizes familiar objects and people, even at a distance - no
• Begins to develop a social smile - yes
• Begins to develop hand-eye coordination - no
• Brings both hands together - no
• Interested in circular and spiral patterns - no
• Sleep about six hours at night before waking (total sleep typically 14 to 17 hours) - 5-1/2, but not six
• Rolls over (usually stomach to back is first) - no
• Sits with support - no
• Lifts head up 90 degrees - no
• Can follow a moving object for a 180-degree arc - no
• Babbles and amuses self with new noises - no
• Responds to all colors and shades - no
• Explores objects with his mouth - no
• Recognizes a bottle or breast - no
• Communicates pain, fear, loneliness and discomfort through crying - just pain and hunger
• Responds to a rattle or bell - no

that was kinda lame, so why don't you help me figure out a better questionaire form!?  please???  what kinds of questions do YOU have about our sweet buttercup???

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

http://www.ivillage.com/babys-first-year-developmental-milestones/6-a-127191?p=2

41 weeks

How far along? 41 Weeks

Total weight gain: i lost 2 pounds from last week.  bringing me up to approximately 21-31 lbs gained (since the beginning of this pregnancy) and up to about 51-56lbs over what i should be as a normal healthy 30-y-o woman (that isn't pregnant). 

Maternity clothes:  these questions are silly!  so, i'll tell you what i've decided to wear today:  my olive green maternity shirt with some denim capri's.  slip on shoes. 

Stretch marks:  i believe they're coming in.  it's hard for me to tell you for sure that they're "new" stretch marks, but again this week my belly was all itchy, so i think i gained some new ones above my belly button around the front of my abdomen.  

Sleep:  i had a great night of sleep last night!  so i'd have to say, again, just fine.  i sleep.  i love our new down comforter.  it's perfect hot/cold-wise.    
Best moment this week:  i loved being able to watch my big miss perform in her drama production last saturday... 2 days after my due date.  God is good!!!!!

Miss anything:  yes, yes i miss some things.
Movement:  she had a huge moving party yesterday after quiet time.  it created QUITE uncomfortableness to me.  as in, i was groaning and moaning in pain.  i hope she didn't flip up-side-down, but it felt like she did... about 3 times, as well as 2 sets of 10 jumping jacks and 2 sets of 5 push-ups!
Food craving:  nope.  nothing.  not much of an appetite either.  but don't worry, i'm still eating.

Anything making you queasy or sick:  notta.
Gender: girl 
Labor Signs:  lots of contractions each day, but still sporadic and completely irregular.    

Symptoms:  no more heartburn, contractions every day, a large and heavy pregnant belly, sore back from the large and heavy belly, cervix pain with the contractions if i'm up on my feet, energy loss, butt-hook, shortness of breath, and complete lack of motivation almost all of the time, swollen ankles and feet some days... but nothin' worth complaining about.
Belly Button in or out?  i don't know.  i can't see it.
Wedding rings on or off? on. 

Happy or Moody most of the time:  happy, but with twinges of unexpected and unpredictable grumps throughout each day.   
Looking forward to:  meeting my little sweet growing buttercup!!!!

and here are the dr's stats:

i'm dilated to about 4cm, still 75% effaced and soft/ready.  the little one is stationed at a -2.  her heart rate was ranging from 120-150 today as they monitered me for about 10 minutes.  she guessed i'll naturally go into labor within the next couple days and as she was walking out the door informed me that she stripped my membranes.  i'm trying not to be irate, and just trust in God that He made my body well enought that even when people jerk around with me (stripping my membranes and whatnot), He'll keep preparing my body to deliver her naturally in His time and in her due time.  we'll just wait and see.   
i got to see a little sneak peek of her chubby little cheeks today.  i'll tell you what, she's no 7 pounder!  but, i'll keep whispering that she is, in my ear, to raise my confidence level in myself.  i can do it.  i CAN do it.  i CAN DO IT!!!!!!

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

how are you feeling?

lots of women complain about this question throughout their pregnancy.  up until now though, i've found an answer that truthfully tells, without letting out TMI...  because they don't really want to know too much.  the answer is "fine".  i know, i know... it's a totally obscure answer.  but it works.
lately though, it seems that people want to know more.  more than fine.  so, my recent honest answer has been "normal".  because for whatever reason, everyone thinks i should be completely miserable.  i'm not.  i feel "fine"... or, "normal".
this afternoon i've been having some hurts and pains.  maybe some contractions here and there, but mostly buttercup is shifting and moving around for some reason and she's making me uncomfortable.  we'll see if this amounts to anything or if it's just another part of my pregnancy.
<3

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

my birth plan (read on at your own risk)

what's my birth plan look like? 

well, it looks a lot like the below one with more info (such as names and stuff that was left out for our privacy).  i also cut off the top, which states our family name's birth plan, our dr's name, and both otter pop's and my name. 

We have put together a simple birth plan so that you can know our wishes in this birthing experience at [hospital of our choice].  What we’d like, is for this experience to go smooth and leave us with an awesome memory.  We would prefer to have a more natural-centered childbirth and would appreciate having our nurse support us with this goal.  I TOTALLY understand that I will need to be flexible in my wishes if something unexpected happens.

I have an issue with my heart (PSVT), that when it starts pumping, it just keeps going faster and faster until it isn’t doing anything because it’s pumping so fast.  I have been seeing [insert cardiologist's name here] this pregnancy because it has been triggered a lot.  I am currently taking .5mg of Digoxin each evening.  I met with [cardiologist] last on March 6 and she was confident that I shouldn’t have any troubles in labor or delivery.  However, she is available if we need her. 

Before delivery, and during my laboring, I would really like a lot of freedom.  I would like to try and think that I could possibly be comfortable in my labor.  Purposely I am going to stay at home for as much of my labor process as possible because I don’t want to be tied to my bed.  Whether the freedom is me snacking, or walking around, or dancing, or whatever, I would appreciate being given this freedom.  I would like to use oil and warm compresses in the vaginal area before birth, to help soften and ready the tissues.  Hopefully that might decrease my need for an episiotomy.

I would prefer that my labor NOT be forced, nor “improved”, nor speeded up by the use of Pitocin.  Also, I would ask that my membranes be left alone.  Please refrain from artificially rupturing of the membranes at any time during my pregnancy.  I believe they will rupture when they’re ready to and that that process will help assist in a quicker delivery.  Instead, I would rather use natural methods to assist (nipple stimulation, pressure points, massage, etc.).  Along those lines, I would like to avoid using pain medication and an epidural.  IF the decision is changed and I am given an epidural, I would appreciate the consideration of NOT being given a precautionary dose of Ephedra just in case my blood pressure drops.  It triggers my heart to start pumping… and then we’ll have another issue! 

I would like to use whatever position that I find most comfortable to give birth in (on my side, squatting, on my hands and knees, etc.) and would also like my husband the opportunity to assist in the delivery, if the situation is right.  He would like to cut the umbilical cord.

We are so excited to meet this little girl!!!!!!  Directly after the delivery, I would love to have my daughter laid directly on my skin so that we can bond, first off, and so that she can be warmed with my skin to her skin.  I would love to hold her and snuggle her and have some bonding time before she is taken to have her stats charted.  Please inform us of any procedure that is needed for our baby. 

Lastly, we have a photographer [insert photographer's name here] that is scheduled to come document this sweet baby girl’s entrance into this world.  She plans on being unnoticed and as out-of-the-way as possible, but I really want her to be able to document as much as she can.  Please let her know if she is in the way and where she can be so that she’s not in your way but still able to take part in this amazing miracle. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this and consider my wishes.

Physician Reviewed______________________________________________  Date__________

my dr is great enough to allow me the birth that i wish.  she has been practicing long enough that she WANTS her patients to have a happy memory and is willing (unlike a slew of other ob's) to release the amount of control she could have... to help her patients be happy. 

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

on with my lists...

what's in HER bag?  (in no particular order)

i packed her bag as i would pack a diaper bag minus a ton of diapers and plus a ton of clothes.  here's what i keep in our diaper bag: 

here's my new diaper bag that i picked up for free at a clothing swap! 
it's cuddled nicely in our new car seat that i also got for swapping some clothes... 
i love people who think like me!!!!

1. clothes.  i packed the bag shortly after the kidney stone / delivery scare, and i was at 36 weeks... so i was optimistic enough to think that she MIGHT fit into some newborn clothes.  and i haven't taken them out, but i did add a 0-3mo. outfit or two...  usually i carry around one extra outfit.
2. a pacifier.
3. wipes.  we don't use them at home, but we sure do in the diaper bag!!!
4. meds.  (gas drops, tylenol, ibuprofen.  we obviously won't be using them on such a little tot... but they're always in my bag!)
5. burp rag.
6. diapers (about 5) and 1-2 covers.
7. a plastic bag to wrap the wet or soiled diaper in.
8. a changing pad.
9. nursing cover.
10. an extra nursing bra. 
11. nursing pads.
12. an extra shirt for me in case i leak on my shirt.
13. some safety pins.
14. an extra diaper clip.
15. fingernail snippers.
16. baby/toddler entertainment.
17. a little pad of paper.
18. the nose-sucker-outer-thingy.
19. diaper cream.
20. nipple ointment... which also works on diaper rash, and dry skin, and lots of other things!
21. baby blanket (i actually still have to dig these out and pack some!)

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

the beginning of my lists

list numero uno:
what's in my hospital bag?  (in NO particular order)

1. dum dum suckers.  my doula -last time- said that some mom's find a pressure point at the roof of their mouth that when they suck on dum dum suckers in a certain way, that pressure point is pressed and relief is felt.  we bought a bunch of dum dums for jones' valentine cards, so i thought it wouldn't hurt to try.  ---i won't think of them as "desserts" though!  ;)
2. hard candy = lemon drops.  in case my mouth gets dry.  lemon will surely pucker it back up and i LOVE lemon drops.  ---again, not as a dessert though!
3. lavendar oil.  it's supposed to be a calming and relaxing scent.
4. laptop.  to update friends and family with news and pictures sooner than after i leave the hospital.  ...since we don't have a phone that's any smarter than a phone.
5. birth plan.  i didn't mention march 29th in it, but that's also in my plan. 
6. some soft cozy socks and some not-skid slippers.
7. warm robe or sweater (still haven't packed)
8. lip balm.  i've always packed this because everyone recommends it.  i've never used it... yet.
9. pen and paper (still not packed.  unsure that i will.  but i do have a pad of paper and pen in my purse... and i'll most likely have that with me.)
10. camera, batteries, and cord.  (i'm going to try my darnedest to get that out the door with me, but i CAN'T put it out there already!)
11. shampoo and conditioner.  thank goodness my honey just took a trip so i have some convenient travel sized containers to pack!
12. a book.  heaven is for real.  just in case...  when i was in the hospital with starboy there was the swine flu (H1N1 virus) going around.  the hospitals had completely changed their rules for NO KIDS to visit and only IMMEDIATE adult family members.  it was a lonely stay.  i could've used a book!
13. rolling pin or tennis balls or rice pack.  i went with the rice pack.  and i MADE myself a cute new one out of some old dinosaur jammies of jones.  it says "bad attitude" on it.  :)  ---the hand rails at the hospital all are a PERFECT height for my lower back, so no rolling pin needed!  and the only tennis balls we have have dog drool all over them and i won't touch them with anything other than my shoe. 
14. an orange. 

conveniently my hospital bag was tipped over in the back of "the thingamajigger" (our van),
so you can see its contents fairly well this way! 

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

prep prep prep

so i guess i need to start making preparations for this little one's arrival.  you know, now that she's due to come any minute...
last week i packed my hospital bag and her new little diaper bag i got. 
i have her car seat ready.
i'm making a phone list... if you want to be on it, email me your name and number and i'll call you sometime after she's born.

also, i need to write down a good agenda or "what we do" planner, so that my kids can stay in their routine as much as possible and hopefully nothing gets overlooked (like picking up jones from school each day!)

i never got around to getting to the grocery store peeled my butt off the couch and went grocery shopping this week.  but i was thinking, "man, if i have this baby and someone comes over to take care of the kiddos... they're not going to have any idea what to feed the poor starving children." 
so... on to my next "prep" step.  tonight i'm going to take my menu for the week, go shopping to double most items, hope that i'm able to make them all, and get some food in the freezer.  in case i don't (make it 'till next week), i'm going to post my menu WITH the recipes printed out right next to them for my kid-watch-helper-person.  how's that sound???
now... if that sounds a little too controlling, i need another plan for the next week's menu / grocery run.  what do you suggest?!  i'd love to be able to just completely stock my refrigerator and freezer and pantry... but we live on a budget.  our pantry is stock-able (and usually is stocked fairly well), but what about perishable food?!  whenever i buy just "stuff"... things go to waste and i HATE to waste food!  i need ideas people...

and then, what else?  what else am i forgetting to plan???

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

40 weeks

How far along? 40 Weeks

Total weight gain: i'm now up 5 pounds from last visit and that just doesn't make sense because i'm eating less and less...  but whatever.  my appointment was an hour later than usual and i had a big sweatshirt on.  those are the only variables that i can think of.  so, that brings me up to 23-33 lbs gained and up to about 53-57lbs over what i should be as a normal healthy 30-y-o woman (that isn't pregnant). 

Maternity clothes:  still yes and it seems like i'm hanging out of them, but they don't fit right.  they are kinda big up top... and then not quite long enough (somehow).  i guess she's hangin' low...  and as for the pants, they just won't stay up for the life of me!!! 
Stretch marks:  i think i spotted a new one on the side, but now i can't find it again.   Sleep:  fine.  i sleep.  we got some new bedding and i like the comforter.  it's all comfortable.    
Best moment this week:  getting the sneak peak at my maternity photos.  well... the photo session was really awesome too.  i guess maybe it was a tie.  it was RAD that i got to see the pictures just hours after taking them...  i mean, do you know ANYONE ELSE that has had that speed?!   
Miss anything:  gumption.  i had some on tuesday and it was SO NICE to not have my butt glued to the couch all day.  i need to find some more.
Movement:  she moves when she wants to.  she rests when she wants to.  i just love this little bun in my oven and can't wait to meet her!   
Food craving:  just desserts and i'm pretty sure that's 'cause i'm fasting from them.
Anything making you queasy or sick:  not a thing. 
Gender: girl
Labor Signs:  several contractions each day, but sporadic and completely irregular.    Symptoms: no more heartburn, some contractions every day, a large and heavy pregnant belly, sore back from the large and heavy belly, cervix pain with the contractions if i'm up on my feet, energy loss, butt-hook, shortness of breath, and complete lack of motivation... but nothin' worth complaining about.
Belly Button in or out?  did you see any of my maternity photos???  it's out!
Wedding rings on or off? on. 
Happy or Moody most of the time:  moody this week.  the girls ask me each night to sleep well so i'm not so grouchy tomorrow.  :( 
Looking forward to:  make it through another week to prepare my body and mind for this delivery that's coming up.  i'm SOOOOOOOO looking forward to meeting my little growing buttercup!!!!

and here are the dr's stats:

i'm dilated to about 3cm, still 75% effaced and soft/ready.  the little one is stationed at a -3.  her heart rate was at 145 today.  she guessed i'll naturally go into labor within the next week... we'll just wait and see though. 

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

39 weeks

How far along? 39 Weeks

Total weight gain: down one more pound from last visit (two weeks ago).  that brings me up approximately 17-27lbs from my pre-pregnancy weight, and up to about 47-52lbs over what i should be as a normal healthy 30-y-o woman (that isn't pregnant). 

Maternity clothes? mostly long sleeved t-shirts and jeans, but yes... from the maternity section.  also trying --as weather permits-- to wear slip-on shoes! 
Stretch marks? perhaps.  i can't see the bottom half of my belly AT ALL.  even in the mirror i have to lean WAY back to see the underside and even then i can't see very well because i'm bent backwards.  i wore some pants the other day that i thought i'd have to have someone help me do up because even though they were maternity, they weren't pull-up elastic-type.  i made sure and didn't un-do them in the bathroom though because it really was difficult for me to get them done up!(and then today i actually DID have to have help getting some pants done-up because of 4 stupid do-hickeys -2 buttons PLUS 2 hook-and-eye clasps!-  they had as to clasp them shut!)
Sleep:  still rather mediocre.  since my husband has been gone for the last 4 nights ( i usually miss him like crazy in bed because i LOVE to co-sleep), i've found that having the WHOLE bed and ALL the pillows for my perusal has been rather nice.  i still miss him like crazy... but not so much at night.   
Best moment this week: meeting our birth photographer and getting ready for a maternity session with her too.  i am SO SO SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO excited!  all of that has been such a blessing for us especially since our camera broke! 
Miss Anything? stamina.
Movement: in the past few days she's been resting way more than she normally did.  there will be times when i'll start rubbing around on my belly to make sure she's still doing alright in there.  i'm sure she's smartly resting for her big show she's featuring in here in the next month or so.   
Food craving:  nope.  although i think i could eat salt and vinegar almonds any time of day or night and be happy about it.  i'm not CRAVING them, but they're always a good snack. 
Anything making you queasy or sick:  not a thing.  well, ok, wait.  i head a story about a dog that got mastitis and developed a golf-ball sized lump on one of her teats that was full of puss.  it was red and swollen and starting to get oozy.  and that made me queasy!  in fact, i almost barfed. 
Gender: girl
Labor Signs:  a few contractions this week since my labor coach was away.  sharp and painful, but sporadic and completely irregular.    
Symptoms: a little heartburn (not much at all), a few contractions every day, a large and heavy pregnant belly, a very sore hip every morning and is starting to continue throughout the day, crotch pain -off and on-, cervix pain every once in a while, a little swollen feet (barely), sore achy back, energy loss, shortness of breath if i'm up and about a lot, no desire to bend down, lack of motivation... but nothin' worth complaining about. 
Belly Button in or out? hmmm.  it's a close call.  NOT.  out.
Wedding rings on or off? on. 
Happy or Moody most of the time:  happy, but i'm starting to see the seas a-changing.  in the past day or so, i've starting to see myself get edgy with the kids when normally i wouldn't...
Looking forward to:  getting completely ready for this sweet little girl's arrival through the studying and practicing of the Bradley method and exercises.  also, REALLY looking forward to my maternity session this sunday evening!  also, REALLY REALLY looking forward to my hubby-dubs coming home tonight!!!

 

and here are the two-week-awaited stats you've been looking forward to:

i'm dilated another full cm for sure, up to 2-2.5.  75% effaced.  she's still head down -for sure- and down further than last time (last time remember she's still pretty "floaty" or something like that?)... this time she said when she pushed on the head it didn't float back up but stayed put down low.  i'm not surprised at this since it seems like my belly has gotten very heavy this past week (creating much more back pain)!  i'm measuring right at 39 weeks and her guess at the baby's size was about 7-7.5 pounds.  ---i told her to just keep telling me that.  i can believe her.  she does this ALL DAY EVERY DAY!  ---even though that's what she said with starboy just about a week or less before he was born (at a healthy 9lb 14oz).  when i looked at her doubtfully, she said with him,  "maybe 8lb... but nothin' bigger than that!!!"  but don't worry... that doesn't make me doubt her this time.  i'm SURE she's right this time!!!  7-7.5lb.  that's fine.  i can do that!!!

 

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

38 weeks

How far along? 38 Weeks

Total weight gain: i have no idea.  i held of on writing this post so i could have some info after my appointment this morning.  however, i have a kiddo who's face is lost due to coughing it off all night and morning, so i had to cancel my appointment.   
Maternity clothes? all the time.  day and night. 
Stretch marks? i think so.  i think i have 4-6  (yes, that's FOUR to SIX) new ones above my belly button.  she hasn't been stretching me out so much, so i don't know why they appeared... i have a sweet little 4-y-o that LOVES to spread belly butter all over my belly and feel for buttercup to stick her butt out at her.  it's so precious, buttercup loves it (i think that's why she sticks her but out so far) and so does boo (i know she does)!  apparently the belly butter doesn't help the stretch marks not appear.  i had a really itchy evening and then i noticed them the next day.  it's completely possible they're not new...
Sleep:  mediocre.  i've had sick kids for the past 3-4 nights, so even if i was sleeping well, it's been interrupted by little ones coughs and needs. 
Best moment this week: i dunno.  it hasn't been a great week...  nothing comes to mind.
Miss Anything? we're missing quite a few library books.
Movement: oh yeah.  still LOTS of movement!  she's slowing down just a little, but still LOTS of movement in me. 
Food cravingacts:  i gave up desserts for the 40 days of lent.  i REALLY would love something soft, sweet, and gooey.  ANYTIME!  cookies.  cakes/breads.  candy.  ANYthing...  it's weird because i usually am not a sweet-cravin' gal.  i don't care too much for sweets.  i'm not saying i don't ever eat them, but it's not hard for me to resist.  i've cut sweets (not just desserts) out of my diet several times without shock or too much trouble.  well, apparently during pregnancy, it's a big deal!  when's lent over anyway???
Anything making you queasy or sick:  nope.
Gender: girl
Labor Signs: no.  
Symptoms: a little heartburn (it's easing up), a few small contractions every day, stretched out belly that is COMPLETELY full of a movin' little baby, a very hurt hip every morning and is starting to continue throughout the day, crotch pain -off and on-, a little swollen feet (barely)... but nothin' worth complaining about.  (except maybe the hip pain...)
Belly Button in or out? out ALL the way.  my belly is so stretched out that the belly button is stretched flat now too.
Wedding rings on or off? on.  :)
Happy or Moody most of the time:  happy.
Looking forward to:  figuring out a name for this sweet baby girl.

 

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

37 weeks

How far along? 37 Weeks

Total weight gain: i LOST 4 pounds since the last appointment (LAST WEEK!).  so, part of it was my shoes... but the rest... yeah, i'm all skinny now.  ;) 
Maternity clothes? i guess i could start trying them on... 
Stretch marks? not any new ones that i've noticed.
Sleep:  it's on and off.  half the week i slept like an angel.  the other half of the week i didn't sleep.  i really need lots of pillows... that's the deciding factor.  if i loose my pillows during the night... my sleep is woken.
Best moment this week: well, weirdly enough... it was probably passing my kidney stone.
Miss Anything? hm.  what do i miss this week?  my sister.
Movement: oh yeah.  still LOTS of movement!    
Food cravingacts:  i would like a bowl of ice cream each night.  but i've been declining.  yogart is my replacement. 
Anything making you queasy or sick:  the pain of a kidney stone...
Gender: Girl
Labor Signs: not much.  i guess the "contractions" from last week, were kidney ouches.  
Symptoms: a little heartburn, a few small contractions every day, lots of pain from her movin' body, a little lower back and crotch and hips pain (mostly after sitting for a while.  or laying), a little swolen feet (barely)... but nothin' worth complaining about. 
Belly Button in or out? out
Wedding rings on or off? off
Happy or Moody most of the time: happy.
Looking forward to: each day.  

picture courtesy boo.  (i'm glad i reminded her to make sure my face was showing)

 

her heartrate was about 135-140 today.  she was totally snoozin'.  i was measuring right at 37 weeks.  1-1.5cm dialated. 
Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

4 years ago today...

i've recently posted about my birthing story with my boo.  it was a "BOO!" story!!!  :( 

this was the day after boo was born.  binkins came to meet her.

so, i'll tell you a little about my recent 4-year-old.

boo today, in her birthday dress.

1. she's gorgeous!  
2. she's super sweet.  sweet smile.  sweet disposition.  and sweet tooth!
3. she LOVES to laugh.  she has a very unique sense of humor, especially for a 3/4-year-old.  she has the absolute most adorable laugh ever too!
4. she messes up her r-sounds.  but we're sure working haRd on it!
5. she likes hot dogs, corn dogs, and maccaroni and cheese.
6. she also likes fruit and candy and snack foods.  when i asked what she wanted for her birthday dinner, after about an hour of brainstorming, all she could think of was cake (link to the cake recipe i'm making), candybars, suckers, and frosting.  FINALLY today i got her to list out some "healthy" things too.  we get to have raisins, watermelon, strawberries, chocolate flavored berries (???  yeah, not havin' those for dinner), with mac 'n' cheese. 
7. she LOVES to wear dresses!  she'll deal with skirts, but only with a happy face if they're full of lace and toole. 
8. her favorite color is purple and pink.
9. her favorite animals are cats, but she also likes alligators.

and now, a life-pictorial of her:

boo with her aunt, that lived with us at that time.

boo with her little sweet family (minus mom)

boo with her eldest sibling

boo with her other two adoring siblings

boo at 1-year-old

boo at 2-years-old

 boo at 3-years-old

now, i'll end with a fun test that i've given to 2 other 4-y-o's and enjoyed.  it can be found on facebook, but this one i'll post here:

a test with my 4-year-old 2/8/12

1. What is something I always say to you?
birthday bash

2. What makes me happy?
loving

3. What makes me sad?
killing

4. How do I make you laugh?
um, um, you say funny jokes

5. What do you think I was like as a child?
you will laugh, and you will pet a cat.  i love you so much.

6. How old am I?
50 pounds

7. How tall am I?
(she holds up her two fingers like you would if someone asked you how big an inch is)

8. What is my favorite thing to do?
like to help

9. What do I do when you're not around?
i'm the birthday girl and you love me.

10. If I become famous, what will it be for?
it will be for, um, um, a cat.

11. What am I really good at?
doing the dishes

 12. What am I not really good at?
fighting the devil

13. What is my job?
combing my hair and like to brush my teeth.  and brush your teeth.

14. What is my favorite food?
salad

 15. What makes you proud of me?
proud of kissing.

16. If I were a cartoon character, who would I be?
in a movie.  a cartoon movie. 

17. What do you and I do together?
the dishes. 

18. How are we the same?
like eachother.  we love eachother.

19. How are you and I different?
like to do, because we love eachother.

20. How do you know that I love you?
i love you so much.  we hug each other.

 21. Where is my favorite place to go?
the zoo.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BOO!  I DO LOVE YOU!!!!!

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."