This and That

Just in case you live under a rock and have not heard about Ebates - you definately should check it out! Go HERE ... Definately worth it!

This past Friday I was living under a rock - or taking my 6 month old baby to the doctors for her check-up and was consumed by all things baby, only to find out about the horrific events from my husband that evening. I cannot imagine the pain and suffering these parents, siblings and loved ones are going through. I pray that they are able to find some peace in the out pouring of love and support that is wrapping around this community. I held baby SUPER tight all weekend! I pray to God every single night that I never have to endure this type of pain and suffering. I pray that my child never has to endure this type of pain and suffering, to witness these types of events first hand!

I am looking forward to the Christmas season but I am also semi-sad as well. I am not going to be able to spend it with my family, and it breaks my heart that my mom and dad won't be able to witness their granddaughter open her first gifts and enjoy the magic that is Christmas! (First hand, since Skype will be on Christmas morning! :) )

Baptism planning is underway! I kept putting this event off - well not off but trying to schedule it so all those that love her can be there to experience this sacred event! I cannot wait to bless this baby girl, that we love oh so much! I will be sure to post pictures and a little re-cap! Hopefully she isnt so opinionated about who is holding her to allow Father to annoint her. She definately has her own mind and has since day one! She must get that from her father :)

I hope everyone has a wonderful, safe and joyous holiday. I may be back before then but with all that is left to do it isnt guarenteed!

So What! Wednesday

 

Head over and link up with Shannon over at Life After I "Dew", you will not regret it~

This week I am saying so what if:

• I am so ready for it to be regular days and nights (as in no holiday stuff to do). I mean I LOVE the holidays, but I feel like I am missing out on day to day stuff, and the extra baby snuggles
• I am so sad my baby is growing up. I love love love her just as she is. I know I will love her in every stage but the baby one seems to go SO fast and I am already missing the younger days.
• I bought TWO pairs of tall brown boots -
• I am pissed that I havent gotten EITHER pair (both are discontinued) GRRR... On to buy #3.
• I LOVE giving gifts, I love getting gifts (mostly). I hate to get gifts from certain people b.c I feel like they are just buying to buy and dont really BUY for me. I always buy for each person.
• I think I am one of the only few I know that enjoy wrapping:)
• I am eating like a horse! If I dont have food I feel like I would eat my own toe I get that hungry - I blame it on nursing.
• I havent gotten on a scale b.c I am sure it would upset me (I'll deal with it AFTER the holidays).
• I MISS running like a LOT but can NOT get motivated to actually RUN...
• I am pretty infactuated with my child - It's B.A.D. and I dont give care!

Head over and link up. It's definately therapeutic!

Awesome Giveaway

Put on by some great ladies right now!

Head over here to check it out yourself!

With Christmas right around the corner, you wont want to miss it. If you do, that's ok too because that gives ME a better chance to win. Kidding.

Thanksgiving 2012

Thanksgiving 2012 is one for the books, afterall it is Baby Girl's FIRST Thanksgiving. 

We spent it with my husbands side of the family. Lots of food, family and football. Doesn't get any better than that. It was so good that I didnt take my camera out once! AGAIN! I have got to start remembering. Good thing we have TWO more Thanksgiving festivities to go before we are done! Tonight and tomorrow. I will be sure to take some pictures then!

Christmas shopping has been started (online) since I am working today ;-) Course baby girl decided to come help me at work. Can you tell lots is getting done?

We will put up our Christmas decorations in the next week or so and then go hunt down a tree (we do real) the 1st or 2nd weekend in December (tradition after all). I am thinking of getting an artificial tree (gasp) for one level and doing the real tree on the other level. I LOVE lights and Christmas decor and our house needs more decorations ... Not sure yet. I may end up buying a tree AFTER Christmas for next year. We'll see! Do you do real or fake, I mean artifical? ;-)

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! We are so blessed this year, it truly was our most memorable one yet.

Birthdays, Babies and Holidays Oh My

I think 2012 is the Year of the Baby - Not only in bloggy land but all my real life friends and family as well. Both of my siblings had babies this year! Three babies born within three months of each other. Insaneness and so much fun to have these experiences to share with those I love most - my sister and sister-in-law! I cannot wait to watch all three babies grow up together!

My husband turned the big 3-0! We had a BackYard BBQ/Dirty Thirty party. It was a great succcess, everyone had a fabulous time and I forgot to take ONE single picture :( Between running around preparing, hostessing and enjoying the company, my camera or phone didnt get taken out once. I will see if I can commandeer a few photos from family and friends to post for you all. Let me tell you this, the keg was emptied (yes we had a keg at the birthday party) and lots of cocktails were made and enjoyed by everyone - except myself. I still cannot manage to get a drink down without A) Guilt and B) feeling like poo after I manage to drink it. I need to contact some mommies that have this figured out b.c I miss my wine, and margherritas!

I am slowing realizing the holidays are ON us. Where did the time go? Lists have been started, to-do's are being prepared and budgeting is in FULL effect here. This holiday season I am sure will be different and WAY more fun than ever before - I am sad they are here already though. It means time is flying right on bye and I am not ready for my bitty baby to be getting bigger!

Speaking of Christmas - NEED to get on my Christmas cards. Normally every year I am way ahead of the game. This year, not so much. Pictures havent even been taken yet. Shame on me!

Is everyone else ready for holidays? Tis the season!

So What! Wednesday



So What! If

. I am so excited I dont have to work a full 5 day work week in a month!

.The weekend is almost here. I LOVE what I do but this week has been LONG.

.I wish my almost 6 month old baby would get the memo and SLEEP! in longer than 4 hour stretches. I cannot cannot force myself to let her cry it out. But something HAS to give or maybe I should just go to bed as soon as I get home from work!

. The DST was the WORST experience ever. I blame this for our recent BAD sleeping habits! My husband is a walking zombie! He needs his sleep badly or he is a bear!

. Is it sad that I am NOT looking forward to the Thanksgiving Holiday. I LOVE LOVE LOVE holidays but recently they make me miss my family that I dont get to see regularly and we just cant make it work for Thanksgiving this year :(

. On the flip side, I cannot WAIT to celebrate these holidays with our NEWEST and cutest family member. She has some GREAT outfits to wear!

Head over and link up with Shannon. You definately will NOT regret it!

Fail and SWW

I should have know better than to say I would post daily! Silly me. Let's try this again, I will attempt to post daily and WILL post at least once a week :) On to one of my favorite link-ups...



So What If...

- I hate the spacing on this post but want to get it up today - so well I MAY fix it later.

- Cannot wait for the holiday season. I love them and now I get to start our OWN family traditions with our nugget

- I am NOT waiting for the next phase or stage in Baby Girl's life. I am soaking in EVERY minute of this one.

- I HATE DST. I mean with a passion. I used to LOVE it, not anymore or at least not right now.

- I am not a fan of grocery shopping. My #1 most hated household chore. Vacuuming love, dishes OK, sweeping mopping dusting Great, grocery shopping HATE HATE HATE...

- So ready for another three day weekend. Oh hey - Veteran's Day (celebrated) Monday! YES!

Head over and link-up. It's super fun!

Here but not really ...

I am present in the bloggy world daily, however I am not really here. As in I dont ever have time to get posts completed and up. I read everyone else's blog posts when nursing, or on my lunch break or any other break when needed :) I just cannot get myself into a routine to post regularly. And this breaks my heart. Why? Because I want my family to have these memories written down. Something to look back on in the coming years.

My grandmother was SO good about scrapbooking - and I mean the scrapbooking for memory sake. Lots of newspaper clippings, photos with notes written next to themtickets, ribbons, whatever reminded her of the memory. I LOVE LOVE LOVE looking back through those books. Since I was fairly young when she passed, I am able to "remember" every memory that included her in our lives. I do remember her, she was a huge part of our life growing up, but I dont remember everything. Through these scrapbooks I can see the things I dont remember. I want that for my children and their children.

So - this month! I AM GOING TO blog EVERYDAY. I am going to be thankful that I can blog and do not have to spend hours cutting out newspaper clippings that have a mention of a family member in them, or time glueing pictures to a book and writing notes.

So for those that have hung around and still follow, I hope you enjoy all of the upcoming posts.

And well because I cannot get enough of this sweet girl of mine :D

October 6th

October 6th is a day I will remember forever!

Why you might ask, no it is NOT my birthday, nor my wedding anniversary, nor any day I lost someone I loved. It IS the day I found out we were expecting (again).

 It was a Thursday last year. I had returned from San Diego late Wednesday night. I slept in Thursday morning before getting up and getting ready for work. I had sent husby off to work with a sleepy kiss, not mentioning what I had anticipated doing as soon as I got up.  After seeing the instant 'PREGNANT' on the little window that was splattered with urine (gross, right?!?) I took a photo and texted it to the husband. I am not patient enough to come up with a creative ploy especially when jet lagged.

I did NOT know at the time how this would turn out, especially since my husband and I had already been through lose(s). I was optimistic - I had to be, my husband was cautious, he had to be.

October 6th was the day that I would find out we were expecting and the day that would bring us that much closer to bringing home a baby! Our baby girl to be exact. Our sweet baby C. Our lives have not been the same since that October in 2011!

Mommy and Daddy love you so much more than we could have anticipated. We love you infinity, to the moon and back times a zillion. I am sure you know - we tell you A LOT, sweet thang, A LOT! But forgive us sweet child of ours, we endured alot to be able to call you ours and we would do it again and again and again! You are a miracle and OUR miracle!

SWW

Today I am linking up with the fabulous Shannon from L.A.I.D.

So What If:

- I am more than excited to be off for FOUR days in a row. 

-I refused to stay home sick (when I was REALLY sick, b.c I cannot knowingly NOT get paid for a day AND my baby might need me to stay home when she isnt feeling well, and she is WAY more important
 - I wish my dogs did not insist on LICKING everytime they lay down, that noise drives me insane!

-I so wish I could drink more than one drink and not wake up feeling hungover, HOW DID THIS HAPPEN, oh wait no sleep, plus breastfeeding, plus not drinking for nine/ten months - Still wish it didnt happen
-This girl {me} use to LOVE all and everything weddings! Now DREADS them - AGH People should have gotten married when I was kidless and didnt have to worry about what to wear for easy access to pump and/or nurse and frett about leaving the baybay on one of the only days I get to see her all day (Saturdays). BOO..
- I just got a reminder that Old Navy is having their 40% off OUTLET sale this weekend - why to the yess... OFF we go to buy buy buy - well hopefully they arent picked through by then - we may just hit up the other close by outlets which happen to be GAP and J.Crew and Banana Republic (my FAVES!)

Head over and link up, you will NOT regret it :-)

Project Pinterest: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies!

This week I am linking up with the infamous AP from I Love You More Than Carrots for the Pinterest Monday link-up. What a great way to force me to do some of these pins I keep pinning away.  This weekend I decided I needed to BAKE something. With the cooler temperatures and fall in the air, it seemed some warm cookies were the ticket.

 I searched pinterest for oatmeal cookies and these caught my eye, you know after like 1 million pins popped up!

Source: craftytexasgirls.com via Amber Flores repinned by B

I followed the recipe on this pin exactly. I will say after one broken plastic spatula when they say use a wooden spoon use something sturdy! The cookies are yummy ...

www.wackyamazingreallife.com

You will need:

- 3/4 cupbutter, softened

• 1 cuppacked brown sugar
• 1/2 cupgranulated sugar
• 1 teaspoonbaking powder
• 1/4 teaspoonbaking soda
• 1 cup raisins (or mini chocolate chips or butterscotch chips )
  - 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoonvanilla
• 1 3/4 cupsall-purpose flour
• 2 cupsrolled oats 

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and, if desired, cinnamon and cloves. Beat until combined, scraping side of bowl occasionally. Beat in eggs and vanilla until combined. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Using a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour. Stir in rolled oats.

2. Drop dough by rounded teaspoons 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are golden. Let stand on cookie sheets for 1 minute. Transfer to wire racks and let cool. Makes about 48 cookies.

You can find variations of this recipe and other yummy things at Better Homes and Garden. 

Fall into Fall Swap

 

I linked up with Tracey from Then I Got To Thinking for the Fall into Fall Swap. I was partnered up with Shelagh (pronounced Sheila) from Brunette City Blog! She is AMAZING and has an adorable little pup named Frances (who is very fashion forward in her little fall sweaters!)

I received my package on Monday the 24th! What a wondeful surprise. I LOVE LOVE LOVE getting mail and packages are even better. I could not wait to open it. 

Side note, I think my husband was even MORE excited than me :) He got home before me and called right away to tell me I had a package at the front door and what was it and could he open it. Once I did get home he stood right behind me and oohed and awwwed over all the wonderful items as well!

I brought my babe inside first :) and while she napped I opened the package. I was gasping with pleasure at all of the wonderful items!

Miss Shelagh can shop for me ANYTIME ;-)

Here is a picture of all of the goodies!

 

A fabulous scarf, in leapord - perfect for the fall sweaters and boots!

Essie RED nail polish - my favorite fall color

Starbucks Vanilla Ready Brew (which is delightful amd efficient)

Pumpkin Scented Candle - A fall must have

A resuable coffee cup with a cute chevron sleeve (perfect way to identify your cup in the office, well at least for me since we all have reusable cups!)

and some yummy fall candies that I had to fight my husband over

And of course she sent a beautiful card (which didn't even cross my mind as I was packaging up my swap to send, sorry!)

I had a great time participating in this Fall Swap. I will definately be doing a few more and head over to Shelagh's blog to check her out. I am sure you will be smitten.

SWW

Today I am linking up with the fabulous Shannon from L.A.I.D.

So What If:

- Today has been the very worst most horrible day!

-I knowingly drank coffee (2 times) today because of item number 1!

 - I wish I was independantly weathly

-I H.A.T.E paying bills! And is is a horrible revolving cycle that will NEVER end!

-I still have NO motivation to work out (LMAFO song STUCK in my head now, GREAT!)

-I have baby fever! How is that possible when I H.A.V.E a 4 month old. {Perhaps it is b.c she is delicious AND everyone and their brother are having MORE babies}

Head over and link up, it is very therapeutic!

Tuesday Thoughts!

This post has been in draft form for over a week(ok now make that TWO, as I had scheduled it to POST and I am just now realizing it NEVER did, FAIL)! I can never manage to get it completed. Blogging at home during dinner (which I typically turn off all electronics when I get home) to finish it, well and because the babe is sleeping and the husband is still working!

I have been doing LOTS o Brainstorming to come up with a way for me to work from home, work part-time or NOT work! Unfortunately thus far NADA. We have to get my pay, my full pay and I cannot find a way to change how I get it - YET. I am determined though :)

I am super surprised that I want to be home with the nugget ALL DAY everyday. I NEVER thought in a million years I would want to change my career, which I L.O.V.E ... But they say these baybays change you. Mine definately has and I want a million and one more ;-)

I feel like I have been ROUGH on the pups. I feel terrible, but they have to behave in the house, no if ands or buts about it. Hopefully I will make it up to them by lots of hikes and walks this fall. I do still love them like children and they do get lots of attention and playtime - just not as many snuggles :(

Speaking of pups, I have got to update my sidebar pictures. Virgil (the baby) is HUMONGOUS now. I mean like weighs more than his mommy big. He is SUCH a good pup, the only dog that is not insanely jealous of the baby. He loves her and I think that when she is crawling/walking will be the one to get lots of LOVE from her. The other two, ummm well they HIDE ;-)

I am already missing the H.O.T days. I am not one to wish away the hot weather b.c summer goes by TOO fast as it is. I love hot hot hot and am not looking forward to being freezing for the next 6 months, b.c no sweater, boot or scarf is going to keep me toasty warm, unless I wear it and sit IN the fire! I am not sure HOW this happened to me since well I am from WAY NORTH - like the average temperature in the winter is -15 degrees!

I still have a hundred and one posts ... Like her monthly updates - I mean she is turning FOUR months on Sunday! Our first vacation as a family of three, returning to work/working LONG hours and how we have adjusted, and a couple other fun day trips we have taken recently!

I find it odd that once you have ONE baby, everyone has the need to ask "when are going to have the next", or "are you ready for another"... Jeez people LET ME ENJOY THIS ONE.

I have been doing tons of link-ups, trying to EASE my way into being a more consistent blogger. I really enjoy reading a blogs, funny and informative and the woman are A.M.A.Z.I.N.G!

Speaking of blogs, I recently WON TWO items from the American Cancer Society Florida's Auction. You can find more about it here, with the lovely Kristen at First Name Smith! I was so happy to be able to help such a great cause. I wont go into too much detail but part of my profession does alot to find a cure for cancer, all kinds and really all diseases, and so many other issues. What people like Kristen do is AMAZING and SO SO SO helpful. Every little bit helps and for people to go OUT of their way to support society's and foundations astounds me! Well also so so many people donated and that is amazing as well! I didnt want to leave anyone out who helped out of the kindness of their hearts. If I had extra cash handy I would have bid on every single one of those items! They were ALL amazing. I am just tickled that I WON TWO of them. Again THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!

Lastly a few pictures of the nugget! I am partial and tend to think she is adorable! I could just eat her UP, and I just may do that...

 The playmate is so tiring!

A little after dinner snooze...

Sitting like a big girl for pictures. She kills me b.c she is actually pretty tiny but has those CHEEKS. They are perfectly nibblable :)

Project Pinterest: Zuchini Lasgana

 

Today I am linking up with the infamous AP from I Love You More Than Carrots!

for Project Pinterest Monday!

Happy to report that I "MADE" two recipes from Pinterest all b.c I "knew" this link-up was happening today! And I even managed to take pictures of the one (that NEVER happens).

I made the Zuchini Lasgana from this 'PIN' from Jo and Sue Blog.

However I did not follow it EXACTLY, mainly b.c the recipe calls for ground turkery and I am a vegetarian, as in I dont EAT ground turkey. I did make my husband this recipe and did use ground beef in his portion so really you can substitute whatever "ground meat product" you want. I also used whatever vegetables that I had in the fridge/garden to include onions, red peppers, green peppers, broccili, squash and tomatos.

This recipe made A LOT and was just as yummy the next day and really the day after that too. I am not gonna lie I enjoy cooking one night and eating for TWO DAYS :) And oh yeah this is good for you.

Head over and link-up!

Show and Tell: Baby Talk

Prior to becoming a mom, I had TONS of children experience, hello overnight camp counselor :) While I knew I was going to LOVE the childhood phases I was unsure about the baby phases. A meer 4 months in (OMG I cannot believe 4 months are GONE already) and I can say I am in H.E.A.V.E.N!

1. Favorite Baby Names: The Husby and I disagreed greatly on this topic and actually named our sweet baby girl in the hospital only after the birth certificate people kept hounding us. Praying if we are blessed with another sweet bundle. We do NOT, I repeat do NOT have this situation repeated. It was so stressful for me NOT to know what we were going to name our baby. I wish Husby would get on board with my choices from the beginning:)
Boys: Bently and Holden are currently at the top
Girls: Elise and Greer are winning the girls race (at the moment)

2. Dream Nursery: I am posting a pic of part of baby girls nursery since well it is my dream nursery especially after not knowing if we would EVER get one! This picture was taken off my iphone, hoping to do a while post of the nursery soon!

3. How many children? How far apart? My Husby would tell you LOTS AND LOTS as close or as far as GOD would like them. I, however, will tell you THAT is not the case. If I could stay home and enjoy them each and every day, ALL day, I agree with Husby, however since I have to leave them in the care of someone else - I would like to have them a few years apart so I can cherish them one on one. I would also like to add that we "can't have children" the natural way - you know just a man and a woman and since a third party is involved and lots of cash, we'll see if we make it to two or three. Ideally I would like three however cash and time our against us.

4. Importance of parenting: I want to teach my children" to reach for the moon. Be whatever you want to be". I know this sounds cliche but my parents were amazing in letting me try/do/go whereever I wanted. I have SUCH found childhood/college memories that I want my children to be able to enjoy the same. I also would like to teach them respect! To respect themselves and the world around them...We only have ONE world and ONE body so treat each of them well!

5. Favorite Newborn Photo: This is baby C just a day old. Oh how quickly they grow, it is the most bittersweet feeling in the world.

 

6. Promises I would never do (and didnt stick to it): At the moment there aren't too many since my first is still a teeny tiny infant. I will say I was NEVER going to breastfeed and I am happy to report BIG FAT fail. The nurse in the hospital talked me into trying it out - to help the preemie and me bond and it has been a go ever since. 4 months and zero formula needed. I also said I would NEVER give my baby a pacifer - b.c at the time I didnt like the look! oh how niave, now I PRAY my baby will take one since see above, I am the human pacifer and that is NO fun :)

Head over and link-up with Becky @ From Mrs. to Mama

So What! Wednesday

So what if!

-I am so happy that last week and this week are SHORT weeks! I just want to be home with my baby...

-The Husband and I have differing opinions on what is appropriate to do with baby for a wedding (she goes with me is my opinion, I mean I am EXCLUSIVELY breastfeeding). At the moment we are agreeing to disagree :)

-I cannot wait for tomorrow to be here, since that means I am OFF for three more days come 4:30.

-I desperately need a haircut but am not making an appointment until I can get one for one of my days off. Evenings are TOO short as it is.

-I am dreading the cooler weather that comes with fall. I am a HOT sunny girl, not a cold temp girl!

- See above, but I am originally from the NORTH I mean WAY North :) I chose to move for a reason.

-I am dreading hunting season, less daddy time but really less number of arms and hands to help in the evenings :(

-I MISS my fam and they just left on Monday! Having a baby yourself makes me want my family around more.

Head over and link up.

Friday Funday

Why is it that the day before a long weekend DRAGS ... Anyway. Next week I PLAN to update this little blog. I want to get Miss Cs one, two and now THREE month posts up. It is hard to believe that she is three months old ALREADY.

I want to get her first vacation documented as well and a few other fun firsts. Oh and also the adorable announcements that we sent out, late, but hey at least they were sent :)

Hopefully I can start to blog more consistently, at least to document our baby C's life better!

I hope everyone has a WONDERFUL and safe holiday weekend!

So WHAT! Wednesday

 

Today I am linking up with Shannon for So What Wednesday!

So What If:

- All I can manage are SWW link-ups, I love them, and they are easy peasy.

- I am having lots of internal struggle about being a working mom (I NEVER thought I would say that, I absolutely LOVE my job/field) But I love my baby nugget MORE!

- All I do when I get home after 10 + hours is HOLD MY BAYBAY :) We both deserve it after a long day.

- I am starting to have riding withdrawl, more than 13 months AGH...The longest I have EVER gone without being on a horse.

- I have 2 5ks signed up for and have done ZERO running since the bambino arrived. I had better get on that ... Less than a month before the first one ACK!

- From 5AM Monday morning I am counting down til the first day I get with my baybay all day ... SAD!

- I want to do the 300/30 challenge but cannot get motivated to start b.c I KNOW I will be super sore.

- I have a million and one blog posts I WANT to write and again that motivation thing when I get home!!

Head over to link-up. You'll love it!

So What Wednesday

Today I am saying so what if...

- It is Wednesday of my 2nd week back to work and I am already wishing for Friday

-It gets HARDER everyday to leave my little nugget at daycare, I thought it was supposed to get easier!

-I am STILL eating like I am pregnant (in my defense I am down to my pre-pregnancy, post medication weight, I MUST NEED the calories ;-) or that is what I keep telling myself. (I have a LONG way to go before I am back to my regular self)

- I am confused by the 300/30 day challenge. Are we allowed to do whatever sit-up crunches we want?? Or is it a specific cycle? Am I over thinking this?? LOL

-The girl who said I could never think of my first babies as just dogs - DID a couple of times. Then I felt guilty. In my defense, my one dog would NOT STOP throwing up or pooping in the house! He has NEVER done that. Apparently he felt neglected :(

- I have 1001 things I want to blog about...then the baby wakes up :)

- I still want to get better about posting pictures, and well the baby wakes up : )

- I use the baby as an excuse alot now and I dont care!

- I spend WAY too much time on Instagram. I love seeing everyone's pictures ...

Head over and link it, its FUN!

Birth Story - The End (FINALLY)

Where did I leave off ... Oh yes the strip had in fact turned blue (as its supposed too). We were going to have a BABY! A little early but not TOO early. We made it to the "safe" zone. My triage nurse called the Dr back in disbelief to let her know we would be having a baby. They moved fairly quickly at this point and moved us to our room. When I realized we wouldnt be leaving without a baby, I started making my calls - to those that needed to know. I called work to let them know I would not be in, I called my mom, and my friend who would be taking care of the animals while we were at the hospital. All people we talked to knew exactly what was going on since I was calling at 6:30AM on a Wednesday morning, not my typical chat time.

Once we got into our room, the nurse asked me 101 questions, started an IV, put all the monitors on me and was giving instructions on shift change that would be happening in just a few minutes. The Dr ordered pitocin. I hadnt really gone over my birth plan with my dr yet as it was still early. They had started the IV as they had to give me the antibiotics since my results hadnt come back yet and better safe than sorry. I wasnt THRILLED with the idea of pitocin since my body had already started on its own, but after talking with the nurse and Dr, I gave the ok. They wanted this baby healthy and in order for that she had to come out within a certain amount of time since she was over a month early and my water broke several hours before. My contractions had been happening since my water had broke, I could feel them (ya know liek from week 18 on) but they didnt bother me. My husband and I settled in, talking about how this was happening, we were in disbelief. Then we started watching a movie "Something About Mary" and just relaxing. The nurse told me if I needed to use the rest room I could just go, to unplug the IV and the monitors and walk in there. I was making NUMEROUS trips since I felt like I had to pee ALOT. Well it was mostly the water dripping. Then I noticed I was bleeding heavily, very heavily. I had never given birth before but I knew this wasnt typical. The nurse was ya know doing her job and trying to keep me calm BUT she now checked me VERY frequently, kept running out to call the dr and stayed in the room alot. All of the sudden baby started having decellerations... The nurse would nonchalantly change my position (talk about 12 pillows stacked up under one side of me, not SUPER comfortable) and give me oxygen. At this point I was breathing THROUGH the contractions... I could talk up until they started to peak and then I had to concentrate on breathing ... They were coming every 30 seconds and lasting about 2 minutes. It was probably 12 Noon at this point. The dr had checked me and said see you at dinner time about 8AM. The nurse said after she left there is NO WAY your are going to go that long. But I was anticipating laboring ALL day. At Noon after not being able to talk through contractions anymore, and just concentrating on getting through them and now there was NO break in between - b.c little did I know then, my husband told me later, they had turned the pitocin up when I was breathing through a contraction earlier. It was rough, but not unbearable. The nurse recommended an epidural to me after I had told her I wanted a natural delivery. I had no idea why she would do that and I was oh so mad at the time. I asked if I could talk to me husband in private so the nurse left for one minute - at which the entire time I had contractions so I couldnt even get anything OUT to my husband. He said he thought I should go ahead with it if the nurse was recommending it. I conceded grudgingly. The anesthiologist came in (the nurse said he was the best on staff), and I asked to make sure I wouldnt get a spinal headache (my WORST fear since I get SUPER bad migraines). He poked my back and said he was 99.9% sure I would NOT get one. He then got the epidural started. Honestly it was less painful than I had anticipated. The worst was holding still with the contractions literally picking me up they were contracting so hard.

The epidural worked in about 10 minutes. All of the sudden I got a sharp stab feeling in my left hip. I told the nurse and she said just click your epidural button. I didnt want anymore and told her I couldnt feel my legs as it was. So she came over and checked me - the expression on her face was priceless. Baby's head was visible. I was OVER completer. Her exact words as she started dailing the doctors number was "DO NOT MOVE, COUGH, LAUGH or EVEN TALK, I dont think the dr is going to make it!" GREAT! She told the dr in her calm but you better hurry voice - that I was complete and the head was visible. Thank goodness the dr office is close to the hospital. Dr. F came FLYING over - She said she was driving like a maniac trying to get there in time. She was changing her top as she ran down the hallway.

They had started setting up as soon as she got off the phone. They called NICU and they sent down a nurse. I literally just laid there trying to hold my breathe and my husband was holding my hand looking a little deer in headlights! Once the Dr sat down they said go ahead and try to push. Two pushes and they told me to stop - the head was out but the cord was wrapped twice around the neck and they couldnt get it off... After two cuts it came off and baby literally came flying out. They placed baby on my belly for about a minute but she was gray and not responsive. So they rushed her over to the warmer and started trying to get her to breathe. I kept asking "Is it a girl?" the answer was yes! After starting her on the CPAP she began to breathe on her own so she was only on it for 5 minutes or so. Apparently cord stunned her ... She finally perked up and let out a screech. The best sound I have ever heard. The entire process was amazing. At the time I was a little disappointed with getting the epidural only 45 minutes prior to her delivery but the nurse and dr both said that they didnt want to scare me but if she hadnt been born with in the hour a c-section would have been required due to all the blood I was losing. They had suspected placenta abruption. They sent my placenta off to the lab for an official diagnosis and sure enough that is exactly what had been happening. Thank goodness she came quickly and was healthy.  We love her more and more everyday!

Our Anniversary and Now C's Birth Day! Part 1

Let me start with Tuesday May 22, 2012. After my doctor's appointment on Friday (at 35.5 weeks) the doctor gave me permission to be OFF bedrest. I had a million things I wanted to get done before bambino made her appearance. Tuesday I worked all day, I felt normal - a few contractions here and there (as had been happening since like week 18!) At lunch, a few coworkers and I decided to walk to the PX (I work for/on an Army base). The PX is about a mile round trip. I wanted ice cream :) Then I worked the rest of my 9 or 10 hour day and came home. Did the regular around the house, including some cleaning and organizing in the nursery. The husby and I discussed anniversary plans for the next day. My #1 item was a NICE dinner out since I knew we wouldnt be going out for several weeks ... We had a couple NICE restaraunts in mind and then I wanted to see a movie... I went to bed happy with the the thought of one last date night :) I was dreaming my water was breaking in a public place _ I have had this fear my entire pregnancy LOL! I woke up because I was HOT and went to kick the blankets off me, low and behold my water broke at that exact moment and a huge GUSH came out ... I yelped and my husby (who normally sleeps like a rock) jumped out of bed. I stood there in disbelief. What was I supposed to do? Was I really going to be having a baby? Today? I hadnt even completely finished packing my bags ... I changed my clothes,  found my phone, called my dr and explained what happened.. Oh all this at 3AM! The dr instructed me that if it was infact my water breaking that I needed to make my way to the birthing center. So I of course was trying to change the sheets on the bed :) Wanted to take a shower. I ended up stripping the bed, packing our bags, taking the dogs for a walk, feeding the rest of the critters and THEN making my way to the birthing center. e arrived at the birthing center at 5:30AM after stopping at a 24 hour convenience store and getting a bite to eat. I get all set up in triage. The doctors office hadnt even sent over any of my paperwork yet, my Strep B culture results hadnt come in yet either. So after answering a hundred questions, they went to test to see if my water had in fact broken. I was FOR SURE it had, I did NOT pee the bed. No way no how! Well the nurse got her little strip out and put it down there and told me to cough hard. Nothing came out and the strip did NOT turn blue as it was suppsed too ... I was SO embarrassed. There is NO way I had peed the bed, but apparently that is what had happened, or so they thought! My husband and I were getting our things. The nurse went out to call the doctor and was coming back in to give us discharge instructions. I had an appointment the next day so I was to go as scheduled... As the nurse was saying all of this to me, the bed was SOPPING wet. After her speach I said "Ummm I think I am still leaking"... After a quick check she got another strip, and after a quick swab the paper was blue instaneously. Come back tomorrow for the rest of the story!

3 Weeks Already!

Time sure if flying by... I keep hoping it will slow down some so I can savor these days that I am staying at home with Baby C... I just am so in love with her preciousness and dont want to think about returning to work just yet! Unfortunately staying home was never an option for our family right now so I dont ever wish I could - since I know I cannot .. But the days seem to be slipping by oh so fast. While I am attempting to get our birth story written down before I forget even one minute of it ... I will leave you with a few pictures of our angel in her first three weeks of life! Happy Three weeks Princess Mommy and Daddy love you more than words can express!!!

 Brand new baby - about an hour old ... It took some time before we could snap any pictures since someone didnt want to breathe on their own!

 Precious girl on her first day home!  That face just kills me everytime, I think my heart breaks or opens just a tiny bit more ... I cannot imagine loving anything more than I love this child!

 Skyping with Mima and showing off my big blueberry blue eyes!

 Favorite place to sleep - on Mommy's chest after a meal!

I just wanted to document - I had taken this picture at 36 weeks! And had planned on posting on the 23rd! Well little miss had other plans and decided to make her debut instead. I did want to have this picture documented for memories sake.

Now on to attempt to get the birth story written before the princess awakens!

36 Week and SUPER big SURPRISE!!!

Well my counter on the side says 37 weeks and some days left... I am here to say we received the BEST present on our 3rd Anniversary May 23, 2012.

At 36 weeks 2 days Baby W made her appearance!!! Here she is ... All 5 lbs 19 inches of her :) We could not be more in love with this sweet girl ... and I am currently just trying to soak it all in ... I will post the birth story soon but right now I am soaking in all the squeeks, snuggles and sighs that this baby has brought into our house :) We are over the moon in love ... And I am fining it hard to put her down long enough to type up the incredible birth story. But do not fret I will since I want to remember every minute of that day over and over again!!!!

35 Down 35 To Go

35 Weeks

How Far Along: 35 Weeks! I know I skipped a few... Time just goes SO fast!

Size of baby: Baby Weighs about 5 1/4 pounds and is 18 inches long (pick up a honeydew melon) per Baby Center and the bump states anywhere from 4.7 to 5.8 pounds. So who knows exactly how big they are but getting bigger for sure!!!

Maternity Clothes: Still the same here, some regular, some maternity. I think we will probably go to the end this way.

Movement: Lots of little tickles, pokes, rolls and jabs ... I laugh at my belly alot b.c it really does tickle. BW def has a mind of their own, lots of get off me's when something is poking at my belly, and lots of DON'T you dare hold another baby MOMMY ... It's is funny that BW can immediately SENSE when I pick up a baby and start kicking away! However BW doesnt seem to mind the dogs resting their heads on my belly. SO WEIRD!!!

What I miss: Nothing at the moment, well maybe my throat NOT being on fire 24 hours a day, or the vomitting immediately after I try and bend over. I wouldnt mind those things going away.

Sleep: Some good nights, some BAD nights. Last night was a bad one, lots of PAINFUL contractions and then I just keep worrying that I am not going to make it to the hospital on time :) Yes, I do time them and just as they seem to get into a pattern - they go away.

Symptoms: HEARTBURN, ACID REFLUX and Throwing up AGAIN! GAH. I wish that one would go away! oh and CONTRACTIONS CONTRACTIONS CONTRACTIONS!

Cravings: Still LOVING Ice water and COLD fruit, and an occassional ice cream. Eating has become really hard, after a few bites I am FULL and then if I try and bend over it immediately sends me to the bathroom. Snacking a little all day long seems to work MUCH better ...

Best Moments this week: Spending four glorious days at the beach doing absolutely NOTHING but relaxing. Enjoy alone time with the husby and playing in the water! And realizing 35 weeks down 35 days to go - if we make it that far!


What we are looking forward to:  Meeting BW... Any day. I have been told by my drs they will NOT stop labor again! So if I go - we will be meeting our baby! I cannot wait. Though I will admit, I have had some Am I really ready to be a mom moments? I guess we will see soon enough ;-)

8 MONTHS

32.5 Weeks! 

How Far Along: 32 weeks or more (8 Months!) Again each dr in the practice says something different and it can be off up to a week, seems weird to me :)

Size of baby: Now baby weighs about 3.75 lbs and is about 16.7 inches long (Pick up a large Jicama)!

Maternity Clothes: Some maternity some regular - everyday my belly seems to be different. It is weird!

Movement: The movement seems to be a lot during the day now, and less at 2AM. Course I am sleeping less and less so I miss the dance parties in the middle of the night!

What I miss: I feel GREAT right now, and in fact probably wouldnt even FEEL pregnant if not for the HARD contractions everytime I try and GET up to do anything :(

Sleep: Sleep is now NONEXISTENT.. Occassionally I will get two or three good hours, but that is few and far between. Nature's way of preparing me for motherhood perhaps.

Symptoms: HEARTBURN, ACID REFLUX and Throwing up AGAIN! GAH. I wish that one would go away!

Cravings: Still LOVING Ice water and COLD fruit. Eating has become really hard, after a few bites I am FULL and then if I try and bend over it immediately sends me to the bathroom. Snacking a little all day long seems to work MUCH better ...

Best Moments this week: Hearing my husby talk about BW. He is SO excited to meet this little baby! As am I, but I feel like I already "know" the baby so hearing my husby talk about it makes it even that much sweeter.


What we are looking forward to:  Finishing up the nursery, going on our Babymoon  NEXT week, to the beach! Meeting this tiny human.

So What Wednesday!

Today I am linking up with Shannon over at L.A.I.D for So What Wednesday!

So What If I ...

- Have been being pretty insane the last couple of days. These pregnancy hormones must have taken over my body. It has been B.A.D! The husband had to comfort me for a long time before he or I could leave the house.

- Am so jealous of all the wonderfully spring.summer clothing options. I am ready to be wearing them again!

- Am scared to death I will never FIT into my regular clothes

- Have been super crazy to the Husband. I see myself doing this and cannot stop myself.

- Have an unhealthy fear of post partem depression - I am hoping the doctors can cure me of this or at least help me prepare for it in case it does happen. I have definately been reading TOO much :)

- Am ready for the weekend, sleeping in (or rather sleeping at all) and preparing the house for baby's arrival.

- Miss the thought of just the two of us and it is still just the two of us. I keep having these, WHAT DID WE GET OURSELVES INTO thoughts! I tell you I am crazy this week!

Head over and link up! With Shannon!

So What Wednesday

Today I am linking up with Shannon over at L.A.I.D for SO WHAT WEDNESDAY!

This week I am So What If :

• I am SICK of trying to find a baby name BOTH of us love - I just want what I want!
• I am DYING for the weather to stay warmer than 80 degrees during the day ...
• I wish I KNEW when the bambino would arrive, it would make my life SO much easier - well work wise :)
• I cannot wait to get an ice cold adult beverage (wine, beer, mixed drink) ... Everyone seems to be enjoying them now that the weather is nice and I miss it!
• I am so pissed at my dogs, this is new, I have NEVER been pissed at them before! Well not this long...OVER a WEEK and everyone of them is testing me, grrr ..
• I refuse to cook anymore, food it NOT appetizing, the husby and I eat completely differently and I am done with it ... I just want my water and fruit!
• The weeks cannot go fast enough but the days need to slow down - that makes sense right??

What are you saying so what too?? Head over to Life After I "Dew" and Link Up

Weeks 30 - 31 or maybe even 32

Sticking to the original 31.5 weeks

How Far Along: 31 weeks ir 32 weeks depending on what day it is and what dr I see:) They all seem to have a different opinion on my due date!

Size of baby: Like the size of FOUR navel oranges - about 16 inches and 3.3 pounds - That seems HUGE already ;-)

Maternity Clothes: Some, mostly regular still. I think I will be needing MORE maternity tops to for length soon

Movement: Still lots of movement, mostly at very specific times. I love being reassured BW is ok in there... Active most often EARLY AM, lunchtime and about 10PM on the dot. Course NOW 2AM there is a dance party in my belly :)

What I miss: I feel GREAT right now, and in fact probably wouldnt even FEEL pregnant if not for the HARD contractions everytime I try and GET up to do anything :(

Sleep: Sleep is now NONEXISTENT.. and apparently now I wake up the Husby and the dogs. I think the dogs are grumpier about it than the husby is though!

Symptoms: HEARTBURN, ACID REFLUX and more heartburn. Plus I feel like a run a marathon everytime I do any sort of walking exspecially UP stairs.

Cravings: Still LOVING Ice water and COLD fruit, with some frozen yogurt thrown in for good luck.

Best Moments this week: My baby shower. Everyone was so sweet to shower BW with so much love. We are so blessed to have so many wonderful family and friends!

What we are looking forward to:  Finishing up the nursery, going on our Babymoon in a few weeks - to the beach! and enjoying these last couple of months weeks as just the two of us! It is hard to wrap our heads around the fact that after 10 years it is going to be not just us anymore. We are EXCITED and super duper NERVOUS! I have a dr appt on Friday so I will be curious if I dialated anymore and if BW is head down and if they will estimate how big BW is at the moment. I like LOTS of details!

Thursday Randoms

• I woke up one day over the weekend and watched this AMAZING sunrise as I was walking the pups. Normally I am up and gone before the sun starts rising so this was amazing to watch!
• I feel like my life right now is all sunshine and roses :) Oh we have bumps in the road but for some reason they are NOT derailing me right now. Hey I am not going to complain - I just feel AMAZINGLY happy. Perhaps it could be pregnancy hormones - or the fact that I am LOVING this experience :)
• We are getting SUPER close to the date the drs will take me OFF my contraction control meds and let me tell you I am SO excited ... The possibility of meeting this sweet baby sooner than later is so EXCITING to me.
• I am in FULL research mode in regards to the whole birthing process. Not gonna lie, I have been birthing "things" my entire life - horses, cows, goats, pigs etc ... I HAVE NEVER GONE THROUGH IT - but I am fairly calm about it. Perhaps this will change.
• I have a shower this weekend, my 2nd one - I feel so blessed to have so many people love on baby W already!
• Making me lists and checking them twice, oh and packing my bags too!
• I am nervous about ONE thing - leaving my animals. I know they will be in good hands, but I feel like they are going to have their worlds shifted as I leave their normal mommy and come home with a strange being ... I hope they adjust well and aren't too shell shocked by the process. I am trying to work with them so the adjustment is easy, but the oldest (bulldog) has been my baby for SO long I think it will hit him hardest! and that makes me want to cry!

I will try and do my weekly update tomorrow! CRAZY how fast the weeks so by!!!

Flying By, Already 29 Weeks!

 

 

How Far Along: 29 ish weeks  (sorry for the bad iPhone pics, the only way I am consistent about adding them to the posts and I definately want to keep track of this adventure)

 

Size of baby: Like a butternut squash (according to Babycenter) about 15 inches and almost 2 1/2 pounds! That seems amazing to me, that a baby that big is in my belly and only going to get bigger and bigger!

Maternity Clothes: Some, mostly regular still. Sometime with belly band sometime without. The outfit above is regular Gap skirt, Target tank and a cardy ...

Movement: Still lots of movement, mostly at very specific times. I love being reassured BW is ok in there... Active most often EARLY AM, lunchtime and about 10PM on the dot. Course NOW 2AM there is a dance party in my belly :)

What I miss: I feel GREAT right now, and in fact probably wouldnt even FEEL pregnant if not for the HARD contractions everytime I try and GET up to do anything :(

Sleep: Sleep has gone DOWNHILL again, mostly due to being WOKEN up now by the dance party in my belly ... Which I LOVE.

Symptoms: HEARTBURN, ACID REFLUX and more heartburn. My sickies have FINALLY gone away! Super happy about that. All the water must have washed them out.

Cravings: Still LOVING Ice water and COLD fruit, pineapple and applesauce this week. Oh and ICE CREAM :) and cookies - That could be bad!

Best Moments this week: The nursery coming together, and realizing BW is going to make an arrival before we know it. I cannot wait to get the bedding I ordered, have to LOVE etsy. Debating on ordering a few more items I have found off etsy, that place is addicting. Husby putting the dresser together last night - it all looks so GREAT. Cannot wait to get some prints on the walls.

What we are looking forward to:  Finishing up the nursery, going on our Babymoon in a few weeks, and enjoying these last couple of months as just the two of us! It is hard to wrap our heads around the fact that after 10 years it is going to be not just us anymore. We are EXCITED and super duper NERVOUS! Update on my dr appt - The drs informed us that an arrival at ANY point from now on is a realization! We are doing EVERYTHING in our power to keep BW IN the belly for as long as possible. However my belly does NOT want to cooperate. So now we are preparing - in case BW makes an early appearance!

 

28 Weeks already!

28 Weeks 3 days

 

 

How Far Along: 28 ish weeks

 

 

Size of baby: Like a Chinese cabbage (according to Babycenter) about 14.8 inches and almost 2 1/4 pounds!

Maternity Clothes: Some, mostly regular still. Sometime with belly band sometime without. The outfit above is regular AE cargo pants, and a med top from Target I got on the clearance rack a few weeks ago.

Movement: Still lots of movement, mostly at very specific times. I love being reassured BW is ok in there... Active most often EARLY AM, lunchtime and about 10PM on the dot.


What I miss: I am feeling ok, still LOTS and LOTS of contractions and now a LOVELY cold that has turned into a sinus infection! YUCKO. Drinking lots and lots of water, almost feel like I am turning INTO a river with the amount that goes in and comes out on a regular basis. Trying to drink MORE to clear the sickness away and stop the contractions ...


Sleep: This last week, I have been sleeping in better increments - like 2 hour stretches and then I am WIDE awake for a bit.


Symptoms: HEARTBURN, ACID REFLUX and more heartburn. Eating and breathing at the same time seem to be a problem this week, I think most of it stems from the sickies though, so hopefully that goes away soon.


Cravings: Still LOVING Ice water and COLD fruit, pineapple and applesauce this week. Oh and ICE CREAM :)

Best Moments this week: The nursery coming together, and realizing BW is going to make an arrival before we know it. I cannot wait to get the bedding I ordered, have to LOVE etsy. Debating on ordering a few more items I have found off etsy, that place is addicting.


What we are looking forward to:  Finishing up the nursery, going on our Babymoon in a few weeks, and enjoying these last couple of months as just the two of us! It is hard to wrap our heads around the fact that after 10 years it is going to be not just us anymore. We are EXCITED and super duper NERVOUS! My dr appt tomorrow - to make sure she is NOT going to come in the next couple of weeks ...

Some of the Fam! Vol 1

Since I know have an iPhone and can more easily download pics to the computer (mostly when I am working), I thought I would introduce you to some of the "clan" of Wacky Amazing Real Life! The first up our newest and youngest members Claude and Marlin ...

These two came to be part of our gang - when I had read an ad on Craigslist of all places "selling" baby pigs less than 2 weeks old. Not OK and definately NOT healthy. Without diverging TOO many details about what I do, this was a HUGE no no. Appropriate people were contacted and the litter was rescued, the people put out of business. Well I got to be the adoptive Mommy, to get them healthy and find them new homes. Well a new home was found, I knew almost from the moment I touched them, with US! So here they are now full sized at a whopping 10 lbs and 8 lbs, mini Potbelly pigs (however they really would NOT have been "mini" had they been cared for appropriately since birth).

Claude - coming to CHECK out the weird thing being held in his face - He is the snugglier of the two and the smallest!

Marlin - enjoying a stroll in the gorgeous weather! This little guy LOVES the dogs! Gets SO happy when they come out to play with him, his little tail goes 100 miles an hour.

It makes me so happy to be able to give animals like this a LOVING permanent home. I fully encourage animal adoption. Any animal you are looking to aquire, there is an adoption foundation/program out there for it, from rodents, to snakes, farm animals, and of couse cats and dogs! They all need a loving home :)

Baby Bump at 27 Weeks!

Sorry for the BAD photo (taken in the bathroom at work this morning), but here I am at 27ish weeks.

How Far Along: 27 ish weeks

Size of baby: A head of Califlower (according to Babycenter) about 14.5 inches and almost 2 pounds!


Maternity Clothes: Some, mostly regular still. Sometime with belly band sometime without.

Movement: Still lots of movement, mostly at very specific times. I love being reassured BW is ok in there...


What I miss: I am feeling ok, still LOTS and LOTS of contractions and now a LOVELY cold! YUCKO. Drinking lots and lots of water, almost feel like I am turning INTO a river with the amount that goes in and comes out on a regular basis.


Sleep: Is OUT the window again. I think I sleep for MAYBE 20 minutes at a time and then I am WIDE awake for an hour or so. I just want a FULL nights sleep again and I dont think that will happen for say 10 years.  I will say, I NEVER have to get up and pee in the middle of the night, so that isnt a reason I am awake.



Symptoms: HEARTBURN, ACID REFLUX and more heartburn. Now I am having the vomiting coming back. 



Cravings: Still LOVING Ice water and COLD fruit, apples and oranges now as well.

Best Moments this week: The nursery coming together, and realizing BW is going to make an arrival before we know it. I cannot wait to get the bedding I ordered, have to LOVE etsy.


What we are looking forward to:  Finishing up the nursery, going on our Babymoon in a few weeks, and enjoying these last couple of months as just the two of us! It is hard to wrap our heads around the fact that after 10 years it is going to be not just us anymore. We are EXCITED and super duper NERVOUS!

As the Belly Grows!

I thought I was HUGE here! If you only know then what you know now. Disregard the clothes on the bed!

Three Months

Month 5! I seem to have lost month 4 somewhere.



A little OVER 6 months! Baby is GROWING as is Mommy :) Actually closer to 6.5 months!


Now let's see if I can keep up with the bump photos. On a side note, I have joined the new age and gotten an iPhone. I am hoping then I will at least be able to post those pics more regularly.