Santa Babies

Congratulations to Jen and Keith, baby Dayton was born yesterday evening and I'm so ready to see him.
Good luck to Michelle and Dave, they are hoping Megan is going to make an appearance today.

So who does that leave? ME!!!! Come one Lucy. I feel like I'm going to explode. I only have a few days before Finley leaves on his ski trip, and Christmas is just around the corner.

... and we're still rolling....

Yesterday was a pretty interesting day. We headed to see the doc in the morning. Everyone was so excited, although Bryan and I kept emphasizing that there was a good chance we were just going to get sent home.
This little girl is so ornery. She was, yet again, transverse (sideways), but this time in the opposite direction. Even Finley found it amusing that she was able to move that much.
He pushed her a little with two fingers and "oh look, she's head down now."
"What?"
Bryan laughed.
So obviously she won't stay that way. Weird. Although she was pretty low when I went to bed. Finley said that if I go into labor she will most likely turn the right way.
So that was that. No need to go to the hospital to do a version on a baby that is just going to keep spinning.
He also moved my cut off (induction) to December 29. Yes, that's the day BETWEEN Jack's and my birthdays.
I told Finley how miserable I am, and about the contractions and show. He smiled. "The only way to feel better is to go into labor."
Yes, thank you. I know.
Anyway, so he didn't check me. He is leaving on Saturday for a week long skiing trip with his family. I don't go back again until Monday the 29th... the cut off day.
In my opinion Lucy should come out this week while her the dr is still around and be home in time for Christmas. It may be selfish but I'm going to be praying for that. It would give me all of Christmas break to recover. During that time my mother in law and Aiden will be on vacation. Everyone will already be "around", like Bryan and my dad won't be traveling.

Did I mention that my mom and brother came back very late last night from Indiana and brought my grandma with them! I am really hoping to see her today, and glad she can be here for both the holidays and Lucy's birth.

"Lord, thank you again for this time of year. Thank you for the safe travels of my family over the past few weeks. Thank you also for my doctor. I really love him and his kind nature, I know it comes from you. I pray that you will help my to relax, because I know that you already know when Lucy's first and last days will be.Also give Jen courage and peace today as she goes through labor to meet her new little son, Dayton. I know she waited a long time for him. Amen."

The name of the week

I have an iVillage pregnancy calender that gives me little trivia and facts each day. It also includes a "name of the week". I opened it up this morning and you'll never guess what the name of the week is... LUCY! It's currently number 221 on the popularity list, I want everyone to know that now in case it turns out the way Aiden and Jack did. I thought I was being so original with both of them, and about a year after each were born their names were in the top 5. I'm big on originality so I was a little ticked.
(Warning: TMI ahead)
I am going to see Finley this morning. Somewhere between on again off again contractions, diarrhea, and spotting yesterday (which generally stopped while I was sleeping) I have no idea how today is going to go. I have somewhat high hopes, but I shouldn't because I have learned that lesson in the past. We are really ready, and I think Bryan is also hoping something good is going to happen. He is going with me, and actually has the whole day off just in case she isn't head down, or if we have to head to the hospital.
Fortunately I have some things to look forward to this week if I don't get my first choice. Tomorrow I have a Christmas tea with all the ladies from my bible study group. There are a couple ladies you are seasoned knitters and I am going to see if I get find out how to make some little flowers for some of the boho hats I have been making. Also Bryan's company Christmas party is on Saturday, it was really fun last year.

"Thank you Lord for the holiday season and all the joy of being with family and friends. Please help us to remember why we celebrate. Please give my family peace and patience today. Help us to continue to be excited and happy even if we don't get what we are hoping for. Amen."

For Fun

You're It::
Here's how it works: Bold all the things that you have done in your life.

1. Started your own blog 2. Slept under the stars 3. Played in a band 4. Visited Hawaii 5. Watched a meteor shower 6. Given more than you can afford to charity 7. Been to Disneyland 8. Climbed a mountain 9. Held a praying mantis 10. Sang a solo 11. Bungee jumped 12. Visited Paris 13. Watched a lightning storm at sea 14. Taught yourself an art from scratch 15. Adopted a child 16. Had food poisoning 17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty 18. Grown your own vegetables 19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France 20. Slept on an overnight train 21. Had a pillow fight 22. Hitch hiked 23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill 24. Built a snow fort 25. Held a lamb 26. Gone skinny dipping 27. Run a Marathon 28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice 29. Seen a total eclipse 30. Watched a sunrise or sunset 31. Hit a home run 32. Been on a cruise 33. Seen Niagara Falls in person 34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors 35. Seen an Amish community 36. Taught yourself a new language 37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied 38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person 39. Gone rock climbing 40. Seen Michelangelo’s David 41. Sung karaoke 42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt 43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant 44. Visited Africa 45. Walked on a beach by moonlight 46. Been transported in an ambulance 47. Had your portrait painted 48. Gone deep sea fishing- 49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person 50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris 51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling 52. Kissed in the rain 53. Played in the mud 54. Gone to a drive-in theater 55. Been in a movie- 56. Visited the Great Wall of China 57. Started a business 58. Taken a martial arts class 59. Visited Russia 60. Served at a soup kitchen 61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies 62. Gone whale watching 63. Got flowers for no reason 64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma 65. Gone sky diving 66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp 67. Bounced a check 68. Flown in a helicopter 69. Saved a favorite childhood toy 70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial 71. Eaten Caviar 72. Pieced a quilt 73. Stood in Times Square 74. Toured the Everglades 75. Been fired from a job 76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London 77. Broken a bone 78. Been on a speeding motorcycle 79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person 80. Published a book 81. Visited the Vatican 82. Bought a brand new car 83. Walked in Jerusalem 84. Had your picture in the newspaper 85. Read the entire Bible 86. Visited the White House 87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating 88. Had chickenpox 89. Saved someone’s life 90. Sat on a jury 91. Met someone famous 92. Joined a book club 93. Lost a loved one 94. Had a baby 95. Seen the Alamo in person 96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake 97. Been involved in a law suit 98. Owned a cell phone 99. Been stung by a bee

Have you done most of these? Anything that shocks you?

Grumble Free

I'm still pregnant. I am really looking forward to my appointment tomorrow morning. Bryan is going with me, normally he doesn't get too. But there is a chance some decisions will be made tomorrow. Otherwise I am hoping she is really head down this time, and that maybe some of these contractions are paying off.
Bryan came home on Friday, he got home at 11 in the morning so the kids went with me to the airport. We usually just pick him up in the arrivals drive up, but we actually parked and went in. Kinda exciting.
Yesterday we went to the Motorcycle show at Quest. Jack went with us, but Aiden stayed home. We really struggled with that decision because we knew Aiden would love to see Valantino Rossi's motorcycle, but there was WAY too much stimulation there for him. It was $13 per adult, so we really didn't want to pay that much if we weren't going to be able to stay and enjoy ourselves.
In other news I started the ol "please Lord let the labor start soon" herbal regimen. Evening Primrose, Blue and Black Cohosh, and Raspberry leaf tea. Plus we went out for Mexican Friday, and yesterday I ate half a pineapple. I refuse to use caster oil. I tried it with the other kids and it is possibly the most disgusting thing I have ever tasted. I can't get it to go down (or stay down).
So if anyone has any other suggestions please pass them along. I would rather use natural remedies and have her soon than get induced next week.
It occurred to me yesterday that there are several other things to look forward to this month. I am trying to decide what to get Jack for his birthday. I am pretty settled on art supplies and some toddler begging (although he isn't graduating to his big boy bed yet). And for myself I will probably have a day to pamper myself once the holidays are over. I decided what I am doing for Nolan's b-day this year (in March) but I am tempted to do it sooner. I found out I was pregnant right after his birthday last year and didn't get the chance to do what I planned. I'll blog about that a little closer to when it happens, I don't want to remind anyone how strange I am right now.

"Thank you Lord, this has been a really nice weekend. Thank you for bringing Bryan home safely. Please keep my family safe while they travel this weekend. Help me to be patient. Amen."

The boys

I am so happy Bryan is finally coming home today. I really do okay when he's gone. The first couple days are usually rough, but he used to be in the Coast Guard...
He has a direct flight from Newark, and because of the time difference he is scheduled to get in at 10:57, how awesome is that? I don't even have to wait all day or pick him up at night. We're going to the grocery and Super Supplements this morning and then it will be time to pick him up, all before lunch.

Moving on. So Aiden finally had a good day yesterday. It was the first day since Thanksgiving that I didn't hear from the Principal or bus driver about some difficult behavior. I was SO happy for him. He got a fresh pack of bubble gum and is going to get to pick out some juice at the grocery today (it's the little things in life). I really can't blame him for being so off lately. I have too (not in an autism way of course) but Christmas is only a couple weeks away, he's getting a new baby sister any day, and daddy has been gone. Also our slightly traumatic start to the week was a little much for him. He didn't want to get in the truck for several days for fear that the rock is still really in the tire.
He apparently has a new girlfriend. Last week he announced that he is "finished" with Alyssa (the girl who was trying to kiss him all the time). Now everything is about Evie, I guess she rides hi bus but is in a different class ??? It's going to be really interesting to see what his relationships are like when he gets older, he's emotionally so complicated (even more than your average dude) and has killer pretty boy looks.

I do realize I don't talk about Jack enough. It's not that he doesn't get enough attention, that is so far from the truth. He has become very entertaining. His new thing is, "its scawey". (scary) He does a really cute little scared face with big blue eyes. He has been talking in lots of 3-4 word sentences and loves to play "whats dat?" He has really been blossoming since Aiden has been in school. Before he pretty much wasn't getting a word in edgewise. It's also interesting to see him develop in ways that took Aiden much longer. Jumping and hopping, galloping, running on his feet instead of always tippy-toes, somersaults, hand-eye coordination. It's just different. It's nice.

So, on to the weekend. What time does WalMart open? I've been awake since 4:30 (not because of my kids this time) so I'm ready to get going.

"Lord, please protect Bryan as he travels home. Amen."

Not such a bad week after all

I did so much complaining this past week, now I have to turn around and give some praise. God has answered my prayers and met all of my needs this week. Sometimes things don't work that way, and there is more waiting involved, but not this time.
I have a new phone.
I have NEW TIRES on my truck (an early Christmas gift from mom and dad)
Lucy is head down, stuck and making me very uncomfortable (in a good way)
Bryan is coming home tomorrow morning...
and a bonus I received a Babies R Us Gift card from a friend at church so I can go do something fun today. I think Jamba Juice will also be involved.

I was also lucky enough to hang out with Jessica and Keeley yesterday. Now I really need my baby. She reminded me of what I'm waiting for. During the last weeks of pregnancy it's easy for the focus to become about "labor" and "me". It's hormones I'm sure.

Is it snowing right now? I haven't even looked outside. I have been trying to ignore the weather reports. I lived in Buffalo for 4 years, I could do with out snow. Really. But in my history of child baring I think there was only one baby who wasn't born with snow on the ground, so...

Yes, my contractions are getting worse. I am really hoping Finley is going to strip the membranes at my appointment on Monday, given that she is actually head down for once, and theses contractions are getting a little obnoxious. I had them ALL day yesterday. They either stop when I'm sleeping or they aren't enough to wake me. I double checked to make sure I have everything ready for the hospital. I am pretty experienced in packing a hospital bag. I haven't packed Bry's yet though. I will tomorrow. I always put in snacks and comfy clothes for him too (and usually a surprise or two)

"Lord thank you for helping me to recognize all the ways I am blessed. Life is full of bad days and unexpected problems. I will always try to focus on you and how you have already saved me. There are probably many things you have spared me from that I never even knew. Thank you for helping my to see what I have and not what I don't. Amen."

Ask and you shall recieve...

when what you want is God's will.
So I told you yesterday that I am going to tell you something about my bible study group at Bethany today. It's kind of a secret, they already know part of it, but I'm going to tell the rest because it's pretty cool.
I also want to mention that I woke up this morning and Lucy is heads down toward the exit sign. So let's pray she stays that way. (thank you all those who were praying for me last night)

So as you may know I was REALLY sick over the summer. By the time August rolled around I couldn't wait for bible study, MOPS and all the other school year activities to begin. I was desperate.
At our bible study we have small discussion groups we keep for the whole year. We don't choose them, we are assigned to a group with the exception of one buddy (I chose my mom). So I began praying for my future bible study group through the end of the summer. While I was doing this God placed on my heart to pray for 4 specific people. All 4 were either acquaintances or people I knew of but had not really met before. I'm going to tell you about each one and what I prayed for them"

Brook P.: Brook was a mentor mom at MOPS the past two years in a row. I knew that for a time she went to Valley Bible Church (my home church in Sumner I grew up in) and that her son was the youth leader at Bethany for a while when my brother first started going there. Brook is hilarious. I also had a hunch that she is a very Godly lady and has a lot of wisdom to share. I was sad when I knew she was no longer going to be a mentor mom, because I had been kinda hoping she might end up my mentor mom. I didn't know her at all, but you can always tell when she's in the room. So I switched to praying that she would be attending bible study and that maybe she would end up in my group.

Sarah G.: Last year in MOPS leadership we played secret sister for the whole year, Sarah was my secret sister and I spent the whole year trying to figure out what little gifts to leave her and trying not to make eye contact (I was sure she was going to know it was me) Before the secret sister game started I didn't know who Sarah was. So I really spent the whole MOPS year praying for someone I didn't really know anything about. So when the MOPS year ended and I wasn't trying to be sneaky anymore I realized I still didn't' know anything about her because I spent the whole year hiding, sure that she had some kind of telepathy or x-ray vision. So over the summer I started praying that during the upcoming year she would end up somehow in my social circle so that I could find our more about the person who I had been praying for.

Erin B.: Last year when I was a table leader in MOPS I prayed for all the girls at my table. They were all special and lovely. However the only person God was really pressing on me to pray for during the summer after MOPS was over was over was Erin. I didn't include her whole name, and I think most of the story is common knowledge, so I will share some details of what I had been praying for. Erin and her husband have an adorable little boy. They were hoping to have another baby, but were not able to get pregnant. I remember when she mentioned they weren't going to try anymore and I went home and cried because on some level I knew what empty arms feel like. So I only prayed harder. When MOPS was over I prayed also that God would somehow keep her in my social circle so that I could be there when my prayers were answered (haha).

Christy: I saw Christy when I visited a Sunday School class over the summer.I can't tell you why I prayed for her. I guess God just kept whispering her name in my ear ???

So, the point of this is, all these ladies "randomly" ended up in my small group. Brook also brought her daughter in law Racheal along, so I was doubly blessed with having Brook and a new friend to keep for myself.
Sarah also now my MOPS table leader, she couldn't get away from my if she wanted to. I like everything about her, her hair, her voice, and she may be THE craftiest lady I've ever met.
God blessed me so deeply with my diligence in praying for Erin. I had the privilege of being at the table the day she announced that she is expecting. No one, not even Erin, knew I had been praying for the baby God was going to give her. So I'm sure my emotional response was surprising to everyone, but I was speechless and SO elated. And Christy is still a mystery. I still don't know her. I know that she is quiet, and seems like a really tired mommy. She is often not there. So I'll just keep praying and waiting on that one :)

So always ask.

"Thank you, Lord, for my bible study group. Thank you for the blessing and joy you have provided me through them. Please bless them in return. Amen."

T.G.I... Monday? **PLUS UPDATE (NEW)

My hunch was right. (Dr)Finley used the ultrasound to discover... she's TRANSVERSE. And most of you probably know you CAN NOT deliver a transverse baby vaginally. I go back first thing next Monday to see if she is still in this position. If so Finley is going to try to turn her manually. If that doesn't work it's a C for me, asap. Lovely.
Then I went to get a patch on my tire... yeah that didn't go so well either. Tire was not replaceable. They put on my spare (which happens to be a full size tire) but when Bryan gets home we're going to have to fork out the money for all new tires. (please see the post where I vented about money, etc. last month)
"TAH-DAH!!!!"



Wow... what a weekend.
First my phone broke.
Then I got a flat tire (but made it home safely)
Then I spent some time really angry at a certain lazy member of my family that needed to make a phone call for me to get a new phone... and just couldn't seem to do it or answer when I call (but answers when Bryan calls). So still NO PHONE.
Then I woke up from a much needed nap to find Lucy lying transverse. She has since moved but I'm not sure if she's heads or tails.
On top of my stress Aiden was really nuts, and I can usually coach him to make good decisions and stay on track, but I just couldn't. It was so frustrating.
Then because of the flat tire I couldn't drive my truck to my MOPS table Christmas cookie get together. So I called Sylvia to tell her I wasn't going to make it, "well that's too bad because I made a cake for you and we put together a goodie basket in honor of you baby." Oh my goodness, I felt HORRIBLE. So I was able to borrow Cindy's (my mother in law) car and make it over to Sylvia's. I was very glad I went because I really love hanging out with the girls from my MOPS table. They are all so sweet, interesting, and talented.

I know it's crazy, but I'm really glad it's Monday. Aiden has a full day of school to go get the social time, stimulation and energy that he needs (with out sucking my will to live). I have a Dr appointment, and hopefully Lucy is really head down now. I am also looking forward to being checked. I have been having lots of little contractions that come and go. I am hoping for just a little progress. I had this with Aiden and Nolan, they were both about a week early.
After the Dr my mom is following me to go get my tire fixed. And hopefully I will be able to go get a new phone today.

This, again, was more of a rant than a real blog post. I actually have something much more interesting to write about tomorrow.

"Lord, please help me to RELAX. Today is a new day. I pray that you would open doors today and help me to accomplish what I need to accomplish, and let go of what I don't. Amen."

Hold the Phone!!

Life is such a mystery. My phone quit last night. I have a Razor, it has held up really well, and I actually didn't see it coming. Here is a short list of reasons why not having my phone is BAD right now.
1. I'm dangerously pregnant and shouldn't go anywhere alone
2. Bryan is in N.Y. and the house phone doesn't have long distance
3. Bryan is in N.Y. and T-Mobile probably won't replace the phone with out his signature
4. All my phone numbers were in the phone
5. It's almost Christmas and I wasn't planning on spending money on a new phone right now (especially since I was planning on forking out money for an upgrade after the holidays)
6. I woke up with contractions this am and I am taking the kids to a birthday party, and if something happens on the freeway Aiden will have to deliver the baby (hahahaha, probably not) Catch!

So yeah, that's my rant this morning. I attempted to make myself a peppermint mocha at home this morning. I should have just run to Starbucks. Lattes are never the same from home.

I spent the whole day cleaning and acting like a looney yesterday. I wasn't as sad about Bry being gone as I anticipated (thank you, I know several of you prayed for me). I also decided that if Lucy wants to come out this week while Bry is gone it would be okay, I'm the one who does all the work anyway :) And the other bonus is I get to watch all the chick flicks I want and I don't have to share the bed or pillows (I used 5 last night).

Adios from Crazyville.

The Drug Addict and the Shopping Addict

So I'm really posting because it is part of my effort to keep busy this morning. I just got back from dropping Bryan off at the airport :(

Anyway, so I actually have a short "Aiden Anecdote" to share from yesterday. Bryan was home so he got Aiden off the bus for me after school. When they came in the door Bryan was laughing hysterically. "Go tell your mom what you just told me," he ordered.
"What happened?" I asked Aiden. As he approached me I noticed something green all over his hands and nose.
"We had smelly markers, but they gave me a headache."
On closer inspection I noticed the inside of Aiden's nose was actually "Sour Apple Green".
I didn't laugh (until later).
We considered re-hab, but apparently he learned his lesson.

So today I am considering all kinds of ways to keep busy, most of which include some kind of therapeutic shopping.However I just took Bryan to buy some really nice new dress clothes for his trip, so I probably shouldn't, but the female shopping disease will probably win. A new sweater and some fuzzy house slippers would probably make me feel better ;)

I've been up since 4:44

I am such a wreck today. Poor Keren gets to hear me whine for a couple hours this morning. Hopefully after a latte I will be in a better mood.
In my defense I must say it is all hormones fault. I am not usually a tearful, fretful, or whiney type. But I have been having these OUTRAGEOUS mood swings. Yesterday at bible study we watched a video taught by Beth Moore, whom I really enjoy. I actually got up and left because she was yelling. If you have ever seen her teach you know what I mean. She gets really into it, I grew up in Texas so I understand her style. But yesterday I wanted to run for cover. My small group looked at me like I was CRAZY when I came back, and my only explanation was "she was yelling".
So anyway. Bryan has tomorrow off and then he takes off for the Big Apple. I am so nervous about him being gone. I'm really sick of being pregnant, but I am HORRIFIED of having the baby without him here. I think I would be damaged forever. I can't think of another person who I would let in the delivery room with me, I only want him. Let me put it this way; we've been through some "stuff" together and he is seriously like my security blanket. My Achilles heel. He always stays with me in recovery too. We even sleep in the tiny hospital bed together.
So anyway, the pressure to stay pregnant for 2 more weeks is on (that's kind of a long time)He comes back the 12th (hopefully).
((sigh)) "what's for breakfast?"

"Lord help me to have more courage. I know that I should be enjoying so many blessings right now, but instead I am full of doubt. Help me to meet this test with belief instead of unbelief. You already know what the next step should be. PLEASE protect my husband. I ask this every morning when he leaves for work, and I will probably never stop doing this, but please let it be because I trust you with his life and not because I think I need to remind you about him. Please fill this day with unexpected blessings for my family, and my friends. Amen."

Family Picture

I'm editing this picture for our Christmas cards, but I'm only committing to sending cards to family this year because I sorta have enough going on as is. So here it is, we just had my mom take a couple pics on Thanksgiving. I still need to take some nice pics of the boys. Anyway, I think it turned out pretty well other than Aiden's cheese face. I've always had a hard time getting him to understand how to smile when we take a picture.

Speaking of Aiden, I am so glad he is heading back to school today. Not because I didn't love having him around last week, but the change in his routine made him CRAZY! He wasn't really functioning very well the past couple days. So getting back to school is just what he needs today.

I on the other hand have several things I want/need to do today, and I am worried the big belly is going to slow me down. Last time I went to our storage unit to find something I think I made the manager so nervous. He kept walking by to make sure I was okay. But at this point I'm like "hey, what's the worst that could happen, I go into labor?" So yeah, wish me luck. I'm trying to find some of the Christmas decorations. Yikes.

My other plan for the day is to go to the Super Mall. I haven't been there in a while.

Does anyone know anything about the new GoBebe store in Sumner/Puyallup off Main? I drove past it the other day. I don't want to waste my time if it's one of those "we'll design your expensive nursery for you" stores.

I did the Black Friday shopping thing yesterday. My mom and I went to Target and waited in line for it to open. I didn't mind it at all, because I did most of my shopping online, and Target was the only place I wanted to go. I still have to go get some gift cards from a few other places, but I won't do that this week. I did leave with a lot of stuff, and a pretty bad case of "Buyer's Remorse". I'm always like that, I hate being responsible for paying the bills and doing the shopping, ew.

I am so happy Bryan is home this weekend. He is leaving the end of the week, so I am just soaking it up. He has finally consented to help me put together Lucy's new bed for our room. I'm excited to see it all put together. I am so ready to not be pregnant, but I don't want anything to happen until after Bryan gets back from NY. This is my last week off of doctor's appointments. Starting next Monday I will be there every week.

This is going to be a busy week and I am going to try very hard not to think about Bryan leaving on Friday (or maybe Thursday). I'm having a little stress about his review when he gets back. It will set his contract, probably for the next year. He really needs a raise or some benefits of some kind in order for us to move out soon. So I'm really trying to relax, when really I keep crunching the numbers over and over in my mind.

Also, I'm really praying that Lucy has adapted to a head down position. She is floating quite a bit and never seems to stay in the same position. Last ultrasound back at 29 weeks she was breach. I can't really tell what's what at this point. ???

"Lord, thank you for this weekend of family time and rest. I am enjoying it so much. Please help me to remember that you have already gone before me in this week and that I don't need to worry about what is ahead. Help me to enjoy this season, my kids, my husband, and the rest that I am getting now. Amen."

Where'd the belly go?

So the good news of the morning is that it seems, and it may not stay this way, that Lucy is quite a bit farther down that she was yesterday. I woke up with searing intestinal pain, probably because my intestines were peeling away from my ribs and diaphragm, where they have been for several months. The good news... more room for turkey tomorrow! But I'm not banking on her staying this way, she dropped a little last weekend only to float right back up, and slide into some transverse-cock-eyed position.
I am sooo ready for Thanksgiving tomorrow, and for us, Friday too. Partly the food, also the time with family, and the traditions and memory making. We are taking pictures as a family and of the kids for our Christmas cards, etc. The next time we get pics done it will be in January to mark all the kids birthdays (since January is in between).
After Friday I will officially allow myself to get peppermint mochas at Starbucks, listen to my Celtic Christmas cd, and wear Christmas socks! I have strict rules about those things until after Christmas.

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving tomorrow. Enjoy your families and love them no matter how frustrating they are every other day of the year. Eat lots of good food, and try to find a warm place to cuddle up for the evening. Oh, and don't drink too much cider, I'm sure we've all learned that the hard way at least once :)

Don't forget to check out the new Jon Foreman song on my myspace, I'm so loving it. I think it is a great song for Thanksgiving, but really for my whole year.
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=112297444

Mandi's movie review

So I finally saw "Twilight" last night. You may remember I mentioned the book a while back. I had a feeling I was going to feel this way about the movie, and sure enough...
When you read a book you can know what characters are thinking, feeling, and experiencing. Books can make you feel like you are "there". Movies... not usually. Yes. Edward is a babe, but in the movie he was just sad and pathetic. You can't feel the charm and allure that he had over girls. In the book he smiles and is so charming. In the movie he does just a little too much brooding. Some brooding is hot, but I just can't feel attracted to a guy who's just depressing.
Anyway, I knew it would be impossible for the movie to capture the chemistry between Bella and Edward. I'm not going to say it was horrible or anything, but the book blows it away.
The thing that struck me most about this movie was how long ago high school was. I graduated in 2001, so it's been like 8 years. I kept seeing the "kids" in the movie and thinking things like "where are there parents?" "that is just inappropriate" or "a minor can't just drive across the country alone!". So, the teenager antics and behavior were really stark in the movie (not to mention Jen and I were the only non-teen and non-mom-of-a-teen in the theater) Because the book kinda puts you in Bella's shoes you kinda forget how young she is. By the end of the movie I was convinced that there was no way a 17 year old could really be in "real love" and know what being with someone "forever means" (note: I started dating Bryan when I was 17, and I am still "totally and irrevocably in love"). Of course I believe Edward because he's like 200 years old or something, but I believe most things he says.
So, here is my final take on the movie:
The book is way better, it offers no moral or Christian values, but it's super romantic with out being "gross". The movie is only worth seeing if A) you're a teenager B) you've read the book C) you're a big fan of hot vampires. That sorta narrows it down doesn't it?


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Update from the womb

So here's the update on all things pregnancy.
I'm miserable. Super stink'n miserable. I'm 35 weeks this week. I have contractions off and on, but not the kind that indicate labor anytime soon, just the annoying ones. I have basically experienced the return of morning sickness, but only at night. I have on more than one occasion experienced horrible swelling (the Dr isn't worried about my blood pressure). I guess something about having been pregnant FOUR TIMES happens to wear the body down a bit.
I went to see (Dr) Finley today. We are planning on having this "going" one way or the other by December 27th. We will try some natural techniques to get things moving before scheduling an induction, which he informed me I would have to go to T.G. instead of St. Joe's in the case of medical induction. Bummer.
But I have to be honest with ya'll, and you know I always am, this kid ain't hang'n around in here that long anyway. Call it instinct, call it hormones, but whatever it is something "changed" this past week. I always have certain symptoms the last 2-3 weeks when my hormones start to change and build. I get a weird tunnel vision, intestinal problems, and usually loose a couple pounds. So ya, she just needs to stay in until Bryan gets back from NY on the 12th.
That would be the update.

The only other thing I have to add today is an Aiden anecdote. He got in trouble on the bus home from school today for, and I quote, "spitting on his hands and kissing the windows". HUH?

I have a prayer request...

As most of you know, we have been hoping/planning to move out and get our own place after the first of the year. We have been making lots of progress in reaching our financial recovery goals over the past few months. However, I am feeling a little down today, because some new challanges have been added, all at once!
I got a bill from Children's Hospital (Autism/neuro clinic), another from St Joseph's (ultrasound from before my deductible was met, ouch!), and another from the city of Cheektowaga NY (pertaining to the closing on the short sale of our house), I also found out how much it is going to cost for Bryan's prescription he got yesterday (he has been trying to quit chewing tobacco and it has been making him REALLY SICK), and he has an "operation" scheduled for January (which our insurance doesn't really pay for).
WHY!!!??? I hate money. Really.
I haven't totaled it up, but it is going to be a couple thousand dollars in the end.
So the reason I had to come vent and ask for prayer isn't because I want miraculous financial healing (which would rock), but because most of all I want to have a heart of contentment and patience. I want our own place SO BAD! Let's face it, I'm nesting, and there is no better way to ruffle a mother hen's feathers than put her somewhere where there is no place for her new baby to sleep! (poor Mary, seriously, at least we're not dealing with a stable here)
So, please friends, pray for my family. We are, as always, a three ring circus. I love my life, full of joy and sorrow, because I know God has created a masterpiece for His glory (eventhough it looks like "modern art" to me). But I am in real need of a little extra peace. Also pray for wisdom in dealing with all these situations, including whether or not we are going to be able to move out after the first of the year.

"Lord, thank you for teaching me that material things have no fulfillment. Thank you also for taking care of my children, they have always had a warm place to sleep, even when it wasn't what I hoped it would be. Please remind me to be THANKFUL, especially this next week, instead of trying to come up with a way to get more. Please also help all the other families around me in need. I recognize that we are not the only ones who struggle. I know I have several friends out there who have needs right now, please show them mercy and surprise them with Your blessings.
This is the part where I trust You with the rest.
Amen."

"...it's only a flesh wound." -Monty Python in Search of the Holy Grail

Lucy Clover's Baby Sprinkle Pictures

My baby sprinkle was so wonderful! I had such a great time seeing everyone. Everything was glowing pink, literally!

Random thoughts are the best I can do today

I can't believe I still haven't posted the baby shower pics! They are on my mom's computer, so next time I go over there I will be sure to upload them.

Anyway, can you believe it's almost Thanksgiving?! Aiden starts his break on Tuesday (a week from today) He has been doing so well lately, we have been so impressed at the changes he has been making. He still has tough days, but nothing too crazy. I know he will probably have some rough patches, especially over Christmas break, but I am just thankful for the progress.

I took him to Tyler's 4th birthday party Sunday, and he managed himself the whole time. He didn't even through a tantrum when it was time to leave. He wasn't able to stay in the room when all the other kids were playing games, but he found himself a quiet place to play and defused on his own, no help from me! We stayed an hour, which is a record for us. After the party we went to his grandpa's for dinner, and had no problems there either! I was amazed.

He also brought home an award for reading excellence last week, complete with the Principal's signature and a certificate for Pizza Hut!He also got a hair cut on Saturday, I will be sure to add some new pics of both the boys later (he's not home right now). Have I ever mentioned that Aiden gets hives? Oh my, when he's mad, tired, around pets, in the sun or too hot, and when he gets a hair cut. He had hives all afternoon after that hair cut. I gave him benadryl but they didn't' really go away until the next day. Poor guy, but he still didn't loose his cool. When we were at Kid Kuts there was a little girl (about 2) who was crying during her quick trim, Aiden looked at her and said "that girl is crying, I don't cry when I get my hair cut." I shot him the "don't be rude" look (which he never picks up on) and said "yeah, when you were her age we wouldn't have been able to bring you here, you were so much worse!" The little girl's mom and dad looked at me appreciatively.

So that's the up-to-date report on Aiden. I haven't been writing about him much lately because "no news is good news". Here are a couple of fun Aiden anecdotes for everyone who enjoys his extensive vocabulary.



Aiden: "Alyssa tried to kiss me on the playground."

me: "You better be careful because you know kissing is against the rules and you will probably get in trouble."

Aiden: "I know, I'm just gonna have to break her little heart."





(while sitting on a footstool at his grandpa's house)

Aiden: "I'm sitting on my tuffet."



"Lord, thank you for making Aiden so different. You have always known what a fan I am of different."

November 15th is a good day to be born!

Wow, two of my friends may be having their babies right now! My friend Jen called me while I was at the grocery last night. She was about to go back to the hospital. She was there last week and they gave her medication to stop her labor. She's only about 35 weeks, but they haven't put her on bed rest or anything. So she was going back last night because the contractions had returned! I haven't heard an update, but I'm hoping to hear something before lunch. It's possible they stopped her labor again and she is home resting.

Also, Jessica sent out a text at about 3:00am to let everyone know she was 5cm and resting comfortably with her epidural. I am hoping to get a picture of baby Keeley and minute!

I was already wishing the end would hurry up and get here, but now my pregnant friends aren't going to be pregnant anymore!! Hang in there Michelle, I don't want to be the only one!

Can you put children in the dishwasher?

So I just thought I would share a little bit of the weirdness going on in my brain this morning.
My first thoughts upon waking up centered around my desire to go grocery shopping. ? Today is grocery day for us, but because Bry is sick and I drove him to work this morning I am going to wait until he is home. So then I started cleaning like I'm on the clock or something. You could eat off any surface in our bathroom. I put half the kids tub toys in the dishwasher and ran it at "high heat" and threw the other half away (they smelled funny). The wash machine has also been working really hard this morning. I have pretty much washed anything I can find.
I balanced our budget for the next two weeks, cut coupons, swept, made all the beds, etc.
I have officially lost my mind. I had promised myself I wasn't going to start "nesting frenzy" until after Thanksgiving (36weeks), but this week I already washed and organized all of Lucy's clothes. I still haven't messed with any of her big items (bed, swing, bouncy seat, etc) so hopefully those things really will wait.
Did I mention that the other day I made jalapeno poppers and ate them swamped in raspberry jam?

"Dear Lord, thank you for my family and the home we live in. There are so many times when all I can think about is what I want or what I think will make me happy. How foolish I am. I know that you have blessed me beyond my needs in so many ways, and I have to stop looking at my life through worldly eyes. Thank you for my husband, and thank you that after over 8 years together we are so in love. Thank you for my two awesome sons, and thank you for the surprise gift you have given us with our daughter. Thank you . Amen."

I won! (Warning: PG-13)

I had such a great weekend. Saturday I went on a trip to Downtown Seattle with my mom. It was a benefit for Children's Hospital. I was also the lucky winner of a raffle on the trip. I won a huge basket of organic non-toxic home cleaning products. I was soooo happy because it was full of things we already use. Also , I don't know if I have mentioned before that Aiden likes to do a lot of cleaning. He uses the "GreenWorks" products by Clorox. So I knew he was going to be thrilled. It was really cool because I NEVER win things, and in this case I felt like I was probably the person who would appreciate the prize most.
Sunday afternoon was my baby sprinkle. I LOVED it!! I will be talking more about that when I get the pics uploaded!

So there is one other story I wanted to take time to share today, but beware... it's mushy. You probably all know I am not one of those mushy love people, I have a bubble. But I think it's really important to brag about our husbands once in a while so they will know how much we really appreciate them. If Bryan does something and it impresses me enough to tell my friends, then he really feels proud.
Monday night, I was feeling so miserable. My gallbladder has been bothering me, plus every time I lay down my stomach tries to empty itself. Ugh. Bryan had been moping because I had been gone doing fun things all weekend and he hadn't received any attention from me. (Warning:TMI ahead) And as many of you know or can guess, pregnancy isn't the best time for "intimacy". So he was really moping. But I felt absolutely miserable. I knew this made him even more disappointed, all I wanted to do was go to sleep.
I tried to lay down in bed to sleep, but I couldn't. I felt so sick. He noticed I was sitting up and asked me what was wrong. I told him how I was feeling, and mentioned that having a Lazy Boy or a recliner of some kind would have been awesome. Well, we don't have a recliner. He must have genuinely felt sorry for my condition, because despite the fact that he was going to have to get up at 4:30 in the morning to go to work, he sat up in bed with a couple pillows behind him and let me lean against him, like a real lazy boy. I fell asleep that way, but I don't think he was very comfortable. But he toughed it out until I was ready to lay on my side at about 3 in the morning. When I woke up in the morning I was so in love. I felt like he had rescued me. I do try to appreciate him on a daily basis, and let him know that I notice how hard he works. He is my favorite person. He is the reason why I love my kids so much! I probably shouldn't tell you, but... I think he was feeling pretty appreciated the next day ;)

Aiden, the alien

I have no idea how long it has been since I posted. Monday, I think. This week was so busy, mostly in a good way (with some low spots).
The highlight of the week is something I have been looking forward to sharing, I just had to wait for a time when I could sit down and think enough to form sentences.
So here goes:
Aiden is a funny guy. Often we don't really know what is going on in his head. He is random. His teacher sends home his school work every week, and it is a good way to check his progress. However his level of function changes regularly and it is reflected in his school work.
Anyway, we have been told he did well on his most recent letter and word identification assessments, although we can't get him to talk to us about it at home. I read to him every night, and have since he was born. Last Christmas we received a box of BOB books as a gift. They have been waiting with much of the learning materials I have because when I have attempted to work on reading with him at home he has been very resistant.
I found the box of BOB books the other day, unopened, unread. I got out the first two books in the series and I figured if I start reading them to him he will eventually identify all the words in the book. So we sat down to read and I read the title of the first book, "Mat". That's it. That's all I read, because Aiden proceeded to read the rest of the book to me. As well as the next two books. I didn't pressure him to keep going when he wanted to be done,because I felt like I was somehow going to jinx it and whatever had just happened was going to turn out to be a fluke. That night he read a few of the books to Bryan before bed. I dunno, we were both just speechless. We never know what is going on in that kid's head. My little 5 year old is a reader! This morning he showed me on a map where Washington State is, and then he told me there are lots of aliens here, over 100 of the. What?

So about the rest of my week. I had a great time at Valley MOPS on Tuesday, and Bethany MOPS on Thursday. Aiden was in school Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Wednesday Jack went to my mom's for some special time with Nana. I went to my friend Amy Eller's where I had some rock'n homemade "Baked Potato Soup". I really enjoy hanging out with her :)

This weekend is going to be so fun. I'm going to Seattle with my mom tomorrow for the whole day. We are taking a nice charter bus up to downtown in the morning and it is bringing us back in the evening. We went last year also, it was soooo fun. I am trying to decided where to eat. I am thinking about Wild Ginger. I would normally say Purple, undoubtedly. However I don't think it's an option this year (thanks alot Lucy!) Then on Sunday I am heading to my mom's for Lucy Clover's "Baby Sprinkle". I am ready to see all my friends!

Ok, that was long. I have more stories, but I'll save them in hopes I will post more often!

Trick or Teeth

We had a fun Halloween. The kids did great and brought home lots of candy.

What made it a really special day was actually something I didn't expect. Before heading over to my mom and dad's (Nana and Poppa's) for dinner and trick or treat, Aiden casually mentioned to me that one of his teeth was "wobbly". It really was. I'm not sure how long his tooth had been loose, but it was really loose.I made sure everyone left it alone, I knew Bryan would try to convince him to tie it to a door knob or something.
Anyway, so after our long walk around the neighborhood we went back to my parents with our loot. Aiden who is not only smart but funny, decided if he ate the just the right candy it would make his tooth come right out.
So he dumped a box of nerds in his mouth. He was crunching them like a cat. Then after what seemed like an unreasonably long amount of time to chew had gone by, the expression on his face changed. My mom and I both jumped at him calling "spit it out! spit it out!". And there it was, not a nerd, but a little white tooth. Probably the first tooth that had ever popped through his gums.

He was so proud. He told everyone he saw on Saturday about is tooth and the "two dollar bills" the tooth fairy and left him.

So that was all fun and wonderful, but there was a downside to the evening. Apparently with all the good pregnancy hormones I have going on right now, one of the side effects can be VERY loose hip joints. I honestly think my right leg was out of the socket by the time I got home. I was so close to heading to the E.R. I couldn't move it and it was excruciatingly painful. However Tylenol and a couple days off my feet seem to have healed it. I'm just going to be more careful from now on. Too much walking, I guess.

"Thank you Lord for my children and all the joyful experiences they bring!"

Should we choose a date?

We took Aiden to his school Halloween carnival last night. We were proud that he was able to wait in the line to get in the door and we were able to stay for about 30 minutes (that's pretty good for him). Bryan and I were also proud of ourselves that we were able to identify when he was reaching his max and leave BEFORE a melt down. All in all it made for a pretty good evening.

So here's a little summary of something I have been thinking about, and I would like some feedback:
As you may know my due date is Jan 2. The problem we are encountering is 1)Bryan has a business trip scheduled for the first week in January, and it would be very beneficial if he can go (it's necessary really) 2) Aiden's Christmas break ends Jan 2, someone will have to get him too and from school after that 3) My doctor, Finley, is going to leave for his annual ski trip on Jan 2.
So my point is, Bryan and I are considering an elective induction at 39 weeks. It's not something I would normally consider, I feel like a woman's body knows what to do on it's own. But I just don't know how else to get around all these other things. On top of it we really would like it if she doesn't have to share a birthday with Jesus, Jack, me, or new years. (25th, 28th, 30th, 1st)
I would like to hear some induction stories. I am pretty wise in the way of childbirth. I would only agree to attempt an induction if it is agreed not to break my water until active labor is reached, and if it isn't working I go home. No cutting. I have had 3 kids vaginally and I'm not trying to mix it up now.
Anyway, it's something we have to start thinking about. It's already almost November!

My confession

After many days and many delays Bryan finally made it home yesterday afternoon. (he was supposed to be home on Saturday) I am soooo happy to have him back. As they say "absence makes the heart grow fonder."

So here is my confession of the week:

I have really been enjoying the bible study I have been involved in at BBC. Embarrassingly, I had to show up to study this morning with my last weeks homework unfinished. The reason... a book called "Twilight". Yes, I replaced bible study with vampires. I really didn't mean too. I have so little time to sit and read with out the kids interrupting me.

I found the book on the bedside table when I stayed the night at my mom's house Friday night. I put it in my bag and brought it home thinking I would just try it (I have so many friends who liked it) and I got SUCKED IN.

Anyway, so it shouldn't have replaced bible study time. I am going to buy the next book in the series under the condition that I do my bible study FIRST, and limit the vampires to my free time at night.

So having that said, have any of you read this book (no it isn't exactly a Christian book)? Probably the most romantic thing I have read all year. And those who know me know that I am not into that mushy love stuff. It also takes place in Forks, WA. I am now trying to convince Bryan to take me there for our anniversary ;)

Mandi's top 25 prego must-haves

This is my list of top 25 pregnancy must-haves. From baby stuff, places to shop, and the things that basically keep me alive.
Warning: this is very honest. All boys should stop reading now or you won't ever want to have children.

25)Chap stick. Between the hormones making my skin dry and all the mouth breathing because my nose is swollen, I go through a ridiculous amount of chap stick.

24) Granny panties. Just put those thongs somewhere you can't see them. Your butt will thank you.

23) A good hair cut. You have to do a little maintenance each trimester. But don't let your hormones take it too far. Pregnancy is not always a good time to cut it all off. You may end up crying for days.

22)Pregnant celebrities. I don't know why. Maybe it makes you feel like you are in good company ???

21)MOPS. So you can sit around and talk to other mommies about stuff that makes your husband cringe.

20) 3 pillows. I need 3 pillows all to myself at night. One under my head. one under my belly. and one between my knees.

19) Promethegan (rectal suppository). I vomited up half my brain in the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. I would have vomited out the other half if it weren't for this prescription life saver.

18)Low rise jeans. I just started wearing low rise jeans before I go pregnant this time. I was too heavy to wear them before. They also made it possible to wear my regular jeans for the first 20+ weeks.

17) Target. They have everything. I love the pharmacy (where I filled my prescription for promethegan). It's were I buy most of my maternity clothes. And it's where I'm registered. Oh, and they have Starbucks.

16)Cotton dresses. That's all I wore all summer. breezy, cool, and no waste band.

15) Breath mints. Is it just me or does pregnancy cause halitosis? I brush my teeth about 5 times a day, and it still doesn't take care of it. The mints also helped a little with the morning sickness.

14) Subway. Why is it that I only want their sandwiches, and the ones I make here at home just "aren't the same"? I actually went there 10 times in 2 weeks when I was sick.

13) The "Enfamil Baby Bag". They hand these out at the doctors office around 30 weeks. They are full of coupons, free formula, and this time I got a "Intuition" razor.

12) My new Schick Intuition razor (see above). I was about to give up on shaving my legs when I got this. No shaving cream or accuracy needed. It really cut down on the amount of time spent hunched over not breathing. And I'm sure it is a safety plus.

11) ivillage.com. I have used ivillage pregnancy calendar and message boards with all four of my kids. it's just fun.

10) Once Upon a Child. This consignment shop is full of baby stuff for super prices. I bought a practically brand new portacrib/co-sleeper there for only $45. The same bed was still being sold at Babies R Us, and it's so pretty! Plus they have tons of clothes, boppy's, carrier covers, strollers, and any other items you cold need. I have also taken the boys old clothes there to exchange it for the baby stuff I needed.

9) Really warm socks. My feet are always freezing!

8)Poise pads. I sneeze, I pee. I cough, I pee. I laugh, I pee. A person is sitting on my bladder.

7)Pregnancy books. I have sooooo many. I still read them. Yes, even the 4th time around, I still read them.

6) Preparation H, in the tube.

5) Preparation H, the wipes.

4) The shower. Aqua therapy is so wonderful. I have never wondered why women like to have their babies in water. I'm not planning to do that, but it sure does help with all the aches and pains of pregnancy. When I was pregnant with Aiden I took an average of 3 baths per day. No joke.

3)Sugar Babies. My favorite baby store. Boutique meets consignment. You can buy a $35 designer hat, and a used outfit for $8. I just love everything there. I bought Jack a Baby Dior outfit there when he was born for only $20 (apparently it was originally around $150.

2)Christmas. I have been pregnant over Christmas with every single pregnancy. I realize it doesn't work this way for everyone. But it always gives me something other that getting the baby out to look forward too. It's just special. (Thanksgiving is up there too, the food...)

1)CareNet. Free pregnancy test (when you're freaking because you had 6 positives at home and still don't believe it) and free ultrasound to help reassure you that everything is going to be okay, and that you really are only 8 weeks and not 12.

I read on comcast today that two small planes collided over Colorado. One plane was transporting several inmates to another prison. As you probably know mid air plan collisions are most always fatal to all who are involved. Well, not this time. Everyone, all the inmates included, survived. If God can save a criminal from in mid air plane collision, what more proof do we need that he has a plan for everyone?
This story could sound unfair when we look at our own lives and think about all the injustice around us. At least, that was my first reaction. But the more I thought about it the more I realized it is a good example of God's mercy, and also shows he just. He spared their lives, also guaranteeing they will be able to serve out the remainder of their sentences. Maybe they deserved a second chance, maybe they didn't deserve to be spared from the rest of their lives. Hmmm. Interesting story. Check it out on comcast.net.

Arrg!

I am scheduled to do my blood glucose test this morning. I have to drink the weird juice at 6:50 and be at Quest by 7:50. I have been fasting since last night.
So this morning when I made Jack his oatmeal I did what I always do and took a big bite to make sure it wasn't too hot. As soon as I swallowed I realized what I had just done. Is this going to ruin the test? I don't know what I should do. I really don't want to reschedule all over one bite of oatmeal when I have been fasting for 12 hours! I took the bite of blueberry oatmeal at about 6:15. That's only and hour and 35 minutes before my blood draw. Oh, this is soooo aggravating.

So today is my parent teacher conference with Aiden's teacher. The intervention specialist is going to be there as well. I am looking forward to it for the most part.

Valley Bible Church MOPS starts today!

I am so happy that my friends over at Valley are getting their very own MOPS group. There has been a baby boom going on their for several years. Anyone who knows me knows that my favorite ministry is reaching young moms. Motherhood is such a roller coaster!
So everybody say a prayer for all the moms who are going to be attending today that they will get the refreshment they need, and that all the ladies who have put so much effort into making this happen will be able to sit back and enjoy it! Oh, and for all the little moppets... that they will stay in their classes and behave like good little moppets.

"Lord, I pray for your hand on all the sisters going to the new MOPS group at your Valley Bible Church today. Bless this ministry and our time together. You can see where we are all coming from this morning and what our needs are, please touch everyone.
Also for my sisters at the Bethany Ladies Bible Study this morning, bless their time spent learning about you. I will be missing them!
Amen."

My computer works!!

After 24 hours of mysteriously not being able to log onto the Internet I am finally cured. (Thank you comcast lady!!!) I am telling you guys, I tried everything (and I am usually able to fix most of our computer problems). I even called Bryan in Milwaukee several times and screamed in his ear.

Everything is going to be okay... but I'm scared to check my email.

Pink and Blue Ribbon

I didn't post yesterday. There was something I have been debating on posting in honor of pregnancy loss awareness month (October), I just haven't felt like doing it.

Thank you Keren for your post yesterday for October 15. http://seahawkfanforlife.blogspot.com/2008/10/october-15.html

I didn't feel like writing about what this time of year means to me... it is soooo complicated. I will talk about it in March.

Instead I will just leave everyone with this....

You're in a better place, I've heard a thousand times

And at least a thousand times I've rejoiced for you

But the reason why I'm broken, the reason why I cry

Is how long must I wait to be with you

I close my eyes and I see your face

If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place

Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

I've never been more homesick than now

Help me Lord cause I don't understand your ways

The reason why I wonder if I'll ever know

But, even if you showed me, the hurt would be the same

Cause I'm still here so far away from home

I close my eyes and I see your face

If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place

Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

I've never been more homesick than now

In Christ, there are no goodbyes

And in Christ, there is no end

So I'll hold onto Jesus with all that I have

To see you again

To see you again

And I close my eyes and I see your face

If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place

Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

Won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

Won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

I've never been more homesick than now

Nasal showers and baby showers

Finally everyone is healthy (aside from seasonal allergies)! I got the cure for my ongoing congestion problem yesterday, part from Jessica, and part from my mom. Jessica suggested that I get real sudafed at the pharmacy instead of that weak substitute they put on the shelf. Before I even got home from Target I could hear and breathe! Then my mom brought me this crazy sinus rinse kit. Seriously, it sounds ridiculous/gross, but it WORKED. It is the kind where you sprinkle the little packet into the weird bottle and then spray it in your nose until it comes out the other side. It sounds uncomfortable... but it's not! I woke up this morning with no congestion. ((sigh)) Finally!!
Last night was Jessica's baby shower. She got lots of cute stuff. It was nice to see everyone from Valley. It got me psyched for MOPS to start next week. It sounds like there are several things we still need to pray for for that ministry. I am so hopeful that things are going to go well because I know there are soooo many moms/babies in that church. Mom's need to be ministered to! But I have a lot of confidence that God will put the pieces together.
I am also pretty amped for my own baby sprinkle! My mom and I are going to sit down and do a little planning for that tomorrow. I hope it's not selfish to have a "baby shower" for each baby, even if it's the 4th. In some ways I do have quite a few needs because Jack hasn't finished with some of his things, and everything we have is boy stuff. I don't want everyone to go overboard, but I do want to celebrate! I have several fun ideas for my shower, and I want to make it really enjoyable for anyone who comes (I don't want it to be all about me).
On that note, if I don't have your email and you want to come hang out Sunday November 9th, make sure I get it asap!
I'm off to bible study this morning, and REALLY looking forward to it as usual. I am soooo blessed with my discussion table. I like not choosing where I sit, that way I am guaranteed to get put with the right people ;) There were a few ladies I was secretly praying would be at my table because I really want to get to know them. Yay yay yay!

"Lord, bless this day with both productivity and rest. Help my boys to be calm, kind and obedient. Thank you for this season of contentment in my life, even though so many things remain unseen. Thank you for everything I am learning from Apostle Paul and the letter to the Philipians, your Word is so complete. Open doors today. Amen."

-I forgot to mention, the ultrasound went great!

My Punkins

We had a very short trip to the pumpkin patch yesterday. We were all very excited to go, but Aiden had a really hard time. We were only there for about 10 minutes before he had a total melt down. There were so many people and his expectations were way too high. That's pretty typical for him at a public place though. You can't imagine what our last trip to the Pacific Science Center was like... 3 minutes... no joke. But I did get to snap a few pictures and maybe they will help me prep him because we are going back on Wednesday.

I have an ultrasound tomorrow! I'm between 28 and 29 weeks, so that should be fun. This week is looking pretty busy, but I like that.

Unfortunately Bryan is going on another trip for work next week. He's going to Milwaukee to deliver boat #4. I think he is excited because Milwaukee seems to be an ideal vacation spot for men. He's planning on hitting the Harley Davidson Museum and Factory and the Miller Brewing Company. Ha. He has a cool job.

Back to the pregnancy stuff. I weighed myself this morning. I shouldn't have. I know that I am healthy and the gain is good for Lucy, but nobody likes watching the number on the scale go up...up...up. I had a pretty substantial gain this week. I knew I would because I have been sooo hungry, although I have been eating pretty healthy. Several pounds in one week just feels scary. My pants are tighter now too. Bummer. Waa-waa, I know.

So, yes I should normally be getting ready for church right now, but Jack has green boogies this morning and isn't acting like himself. So I am going to spare other families from any possible illness we may have and hope we are all healthy before bible study on Tuesday (both my kids have really bad allergy problems this time of year).

The date has been set!!

The Baby Sprinkle for Lucy Clover will be Sunday November 9th! I will be sending out evites so make sure I have your email. Remember, this is a sprinkle... not a shower! I really just want to get together and celebrate with my friends. The plan is that the party will be at my mom's house (she is hosting). I gave her my input on what I would like, but she is in charge. So if anyone wants to be involved or has questions you'll have to call her. The evites will go out in a week or two.
On the subject of babies, I am making the transition to appointments every 2 weeks instead of once a month. I can't believe I am already to this point. This time my appointment is actually 3 weeks apart because it evens it out and I have an ultrasound, glucose test, and Rh test before the next appointment. Eeek! That means I get my Rogam shot at my next appointment, ouch! That is probably the biggest needle I have ever been stuck with. I think it's just to prep me for the IV and epidural (I luuuuuv my epidural).
Also on the subject of babies, my Jack isn't sleeping very well. He never has been a good sleeper, but things aren't getting better. He had colic when he was little, and has never established good sleeping patterns (yes I tried babywise). The past couple weeks he has been waking at about 4am and can't go back to sleep. I have been officially getting up for the day at about 4:45, that's too early for pregnant me! I am starting to really wonder if he may have acid reflux. Does anyone know any natural remedies for this (before I let the Dr try to drug him)? I'm nervous to let him sleep with a pillow yet, he isn't even 2. Any advice would be appreciated!

"Lord, thank you for this laid back morning. Thank you that both my kids are being so calm this morning. Help me to bask in all the anticipation and joy of this season. I feel so blessed today. Amen."

I got tagged

I got tagged by Jessica and Keren to give a list of my darling hubby's top 10 favorite things. Seriously, this is kinda tough (Bryan is easily impressed). I'll tag a few people at the end to give it a try. I like to read these, it's cute.

10. Doritos and Mountain Dew

9. Football (not to be confused with a game they play with a brown pig skin ball)

8. Motorcycles

7. Guns

6. Backpacking/hiking/camping

5. Video Games

4. his tattoos

3. his job

2. his kids

1. me :)

Tag: Jen (you're married now.. you can do this!), Amanda, Amy E., Amy W., Amy C. (ha, that made it easy!), and Candy (you know you want to!)