So....

I'm a dope. :-) Yep...I walked around half of the day thinking today was Feb. 1st, which meant my dentist appointment. So, my appt. is actually tomorrow and my prenatal visit isn't until Wednesday, lol. Seriously, what is up with me lately? I feel like I have early onset alzheimers or something. I'm blaming it on the hormones...each baby steals more of my brain cells...if I have any more kids I might lose my mind completely...and what a scary thought that is *grin*. Anyways, hope ya'll had a great day and please say a prayer for me as I go to the dentist tomorrow and to the baby doctor on Wednesday.

The (d)evolution of Pregnancy!

WOW...how very true! *grin*

Dentists and Doctors

     Today I am heading to the dentist to have my teeth cleaned...ugh. Let me make just one thing clear; I. HATE. THE. DENTIST. I know it sounds crazy, but I would totally take going to the doctor any day...maybe it's because I'm well into my second pregnancy so being poked and prodded isn't really that big of a deal to me. But since I was a very little girl, I have despised the dentist. And apparently, it's something I'm always going to hate. But, yes, I have that on my lovely agenda today, so please pray for me...that the Lord gives me the strength I need to actually make it there and I'm not TOO tempted to call and "reschedule" haha. No, I won't do that because I'm actually looking forward to the dental plan they have set up for me. Over the next two years, I have to have my wisdom teeth removed and then I'm getting invisalign braces...YAY. I've waited so long for straight teeth and now it's actually going to happen....PRAISE THE LORD! At least this morning I have bible study to go to...it's been so long since I've been to one and I'm REAAAAALLLLLLY looking forward to it. :-)
     Tomorrow I go back for my 31 week prenatal visit. I'm really hoping they will start checking me to see if the baby is in the correct position and if I've dilated or effaced any...which I'm not really sure whether I have or not. By 30 weeks I was like 30% effaced with Noah, and I was 2 cm dilated at like 34 weeks...but that obviously never progressed into anything, lol....as I had to have a C-Section at 41 weeks with him. And still praying so hard that isn't the case this time. :-)  I will update tomorrow after my appointment (which is not until 2:45pm) to give an update on how things go.
     Oh, and please keep Noah in your prayers. We have been doing our best to give him whole milk...which he hates. Well, we found out why he won't drink it; it's been giving him stomach cramps which have been waking him up in the middle of the night. The past two night he has woken up moaning and screaming and we couldn't figure out why...then I thought about it for a while and realized the only new thing we had introduced to his diet was whole milk...soooooo, I didn't give it to him all day yesterday and he slept fine last night. Not to mention, he was back on schedule again with his naps. I'm just so thankful we figured out the problem...and we talked to his pediatrician who said 2% would be just fine to give him, which doesn't hurt his little tummy. 
     Got to go get ready...have a great day everyone!

31 Weeks Preggers

    Well, I have almost reached 31 weeks. The first 30 weeks flew by but the closer it gets to my due date, the slower time seems to go. I don't want to rush these last few weeks because I am definitely enjoying the time with my little boy....BUT, it's so hard waiting to hold her. I can't explain it...how is it possible to fall in love with something before you even see it?  But that's how I felt when I was pregnant with Noah and I feel the same way with Haleigh girl. :-)  Well, at the very most, I have 9 weeks left...that's it. And I've been praying very hard that if it's the Lord's will, she will make an appearance in 6 weeks...but, if she doesn't, that is all right. I know it's all in God's perfect plan. I pray that each of you is having an incredible weekend...and if you're in the Roanoke Valley, enjoying this gorgeous weather! 

False Labor Stinks

     Let me start off by saying I think I overdid it today. My nesting has finally kicked in and I've been going at it full force. Today alone I did four loads of laundry (two of which I folded), cleaned the entire kitchen, vacuumed, went grocery shopping, and worked out at the Y. So, after Caleb and I got home from Wal*Mart this evening, I started having some painful contractions. I'm so thankful I've been pregnant before and know how true labor feels, otherwise I'd be heading to the hospital. They are more painful than my "normal" Braxton Hicks...which STINKS!  But, they are still very inconsistent (four in the past half hour, but happening anywhere from 2-10 minutes apart) which makes me sure this is FALSE. :-)  I'm thankful for that...it just hurts reeeeaaaallllly bad. Plus, I drank some water and laid down...and now they are almost gone! But yes...please continue to pray for me and baby Hales...:-)  That God will continue to keep us both healthy and happy! 

"Everything I Need"

    "You are strength in my weakness!"

    I woke up this morning feeling totally crummy; basically overwhelmed by the tasks of motherhood and another attack from my lovely hormones. :-)  I sat in my car in front of the Y this morning crying for probably 15 minutes...doing my best to not break from all the pressure. I went in, worked out, had an amazing, uplifting talk with my best friend, Becca...(thanks for that, btw...you TOTALLY get me, and that alone raises my spirits) and headed home. On my way back, I noticed Noah Bug was falling asleep in his car seat so I knew I had some extra time on my hands...that he wouldn't be cranky or fussy since he would be sleeping...so I headed up to Starbucks and treated myself to a vanilla latte and some banana walnut bread; YUMMY! :-)  On my drive back home I turned on Spirit FM (our local Christian radio station) and heard the song "Everything I Need" by Kutless. Although I had heard the song before, I guess I had never really paid close attention to the lyrics...but it said everything I needed to hear. God spoke to me through the words and I can't explain the sense of calmness and peace that surrounded me in that moment. I know I say this often, but God is good. He was there for me this morning in my time of need, as He is always there; watching over me and guiding me through this life. Praise be to God!



 

Fits of Joy

     Also known as the name I've given to Haleigh's midnight (and 2am, 5am, etc.) kicks and punches. She is having a wonderful time playing in my belly but all I can think about is "will I make it to the bathroom before I pee my pants" as she so joyously kicks me square in the bladder. *grin*  All I can do is smile, lol...because if I don't, I will surely cry. These hormones are not being very gentle with me during this pregnancy...I'm guessing it's because of all the extra estrogen in my body. But, either way, I've only got a couple of months left to go...and I'm going to [try] to enjoy every second of it. But if any of you sees me in Wal*Mart and I'm hauling butt to the potty...and I don't quite make it, don't laugh at me! *grin*  I'd REALLY appreciate it!!! Thanks! I love you all! Have a great evening!!!
PS...Can you tell I'm getting more excited by the day knowing my Haleigh love will be here soon??!??!?

Love my Lord!!!

     So, the Lord has truly blessed us...which we already knew, of course, but today has just been...strangely fantastic. *BIG GRIN*  We already received our state and federal tax returns back but we weren't expecting them until the first week in February. What this means is that we got enough back to almost completely pay off our credit card debit...PRAISE THE LORD!!! :-)  God is so good....amazing....fantastic....wonderful; there isn't really a word good enough in this world to describe Him. 
     The day started off kind of rough but God completely turned it around. First, Caleb surprised me with a night out...we ate at this new restaurant which opened up in Salem called The Blue Apron and Red Rooster Bar. Obviously, we didn't partake in the bar, lol, but the food was phenomenal....and for a more upscale eatery, was surprisingly great on prices.  Then, when we got back home I checked our checking account and was shocked to find it was much higher than expected....praise be to God! So yes, a fairly rough afternoon quickly turned into an uplifting evening!  And tomorrow, we are going to spend time with some awesome friends which we are very much looking forward to! 
 

Comparison Photos

    I was looking back at Noah's old sono pictures earlier today. As I was browsing through I got an idea. I decided I would make comparison photos of Noah and Haleigh's ultrasound photos. I can't believe how much they look alike, lol. It makes me even more impatient for our little girl to get here...I'm just so excited to see what kind of personality she has. :-)

I think Haleigh looks a lot more like me than Noah Bug...he is definitely his Daddy made over. 

SWIMMING!!!

     Oh my goodness, I am so excited. I am going swimming this morning at the downtown Y and it's been FOREVER since I've been to a pool. It will be so nice to feel "weightless" for a little while...this little girl in my tummy has me so weighted down most of the time. *grin* Not that I don't love it...I do. Feeling her little kicks and squirms is one of the most delightful things I could experience, but it will be nice to have my belly (and body) back again, lol. Anyways, hope each of you is having an awesome week so far!!!

Thank God for Great Husbands!!!!

     Boy, have those hormones REALLY kicked in!  *sighs*  I feel like I'm in an episode of Invasion of the Body Snatchers...I've been taken over by raging hormones and trust me...I'd take the aliens any day, lol. But yes, it's been a crazy week, full of ups and downs emotionally. And let me just say this...my husband gets the Patience Award for the week because he has been absolutely incredible. For him to sit by me through the mood swings, hot flashes, and increasingly painful Braxton Hicks shows me how truly blessed I am. 
     Last night was especially difficult...I was having one of my worse hot flashes, mixed in with an ambush of tears, and he sat by my side wiping my head with a cold washcloth...just so I could calm down and get to sleep. That's not even mentioning the back rubs he gives me every night which really helps to alleviate my lower back pain caused by baby Haleigh's choice of position. :-)  I really can't thank God enough for blessing me with such an amazing spouse (who has also turned out to be an incredible Dad to our son). Who could ask for anything more?  A promise of an eternal home in Heaven, an amazing husband and son, and the chance to enjoy this each day. GOD IS GOOD!!!!

Glucose Update

    Just wanted to let everyone know I got the results back from my glucose test.....NEGATIVE FOR GESTATIONAL DIABETES!!!! Praise the Lord for that. :-)  The nurse who called me said I passed the test with flying colors, so that was definitely a relief. Thanks so much for the many prayers.

Happy First Birthday Photos!!!

CHUCK E CHEESE

JOHN DEERE

     Wow! What a day we had, lol. I can't believe how much cake Noah ate...it was hilarious. I wish every single one of you could have been there today. :-)  It's hard to imagine that I have a one year old now...and another little one who will be arriving very shortly, but I wouldn't trade this for all the riches in the world! *BIG GRIN*  I am so proud of what our little Noah has accomplished this past year, and how his little personality has grown and developed. I am so excited to see what the next year holds for us...GOD IS SO GOOD!

Reborn Dolls?

     I saw this on Dr. Phil and couldn't believe it. I further researched it by Googling it and found the following website; www.allreborndolls.com  It really just gives me the creeps. Grown women are "'adopting" and "creating" these dolls and spending endless hours throughout the day "taking care" of them. It's really very odd...they dress them up, change their diapers, feed them...have emotional attachments to them. I don't know, it all pretty much creeps me out. If that wasn't bad enough, then I found out that they "breathe" and have heartbeats. And not to mention...the name itself; REBORN DOLLS. It's like the lady on the video says...very cultish! Is this not totally weird?  I guess I can understand getting older in life and the need or want to still provide care for young children...but why not become a nursery worker at your church? or become a foster parent? or adopt?  There are so many options that don't include these people looking like they should be locked up in the looney bin. *sighs*  Very strange, indeed. 
    An odd post, I know. But I just had to write about it. It's an interesting topic, to say the least. 

Almost 30 Weeks

    WHICH MEANS 7-10 LEFT TO GO!!! Praise the Lord for that...I can't believe we are down in the (almost) single digits.

HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY NOAH BUG!!!

     I can't believe it but our Noah is turning 1 today. *BIG GRIN*  It's been a really good morning so far. We let him eat a cupcake and (attempt) to blow out a candle, lol. That was hilarious. Daddy had to work today so me and Noah turned on his favorite Baby Einstein DVD and cuddled up on the couch to watch it. Now, I'm off to fix my birthday boy some breakfast and enjoy the day with my BIG BOY!!!

Happy First Birthday!

Quietly

Willow Tree Angel I'm hoping to get for my "push present".  

I love you, Caleb....this is for you! *grin*

  

Our New Schedule

    So, now that Noah is off of the bottle and over being sick, Caleb and I are starting to remember what life was like before kids, lol. For the third night in a row, Noah has slept from 8pm until 7am without waking up. It's weird to go for an entire year never getting a  night of uninterrupted sleep...but then, to go back to 8 hours or more of not being woken up in the middle of the night. We are definitely excited about this milestone for sure...especially since we only have like 2 1/2 months or less before we start the sleepless nights routine all over again. *sighs*  Oh, but how I'm looking forward to it!!!! *grin*  I don't know if I mentioned this yet or not, but I've already got Haleigh's first outfit picked out for the hospital; it's a green dress with pink polka dots on it and cute little pink baby booties. Oh, and did I mention the matching pink headband? I can't wipe this huge, goofy smile off my face, lol...I just can't get over the many ways God is blessing us. :-)  

What Faith Can Do!!!

     I don't know, but it seemed quite fitting for today! God is so good! :-)

12 Months Old Picture (Close Enough)

Almost 12 months old.
Taken by our wonderful friend,, Rebecca Rothrock.

TaxMagic

     The name of the tax business my husband is starting up next year. This year, he will not be charging (since he is in the process of getting his name/business out there) but he will be accepting donations. If any of you needs help with your taxes, please feel free to contact him at cfjohnston@mail.roanoke.edu. He is very detail oriented and will provide you with the best service possible. 
     He took a tax course in college and also worked as an employee at Quick-E Tax in which he did taxes for three years. This is something that he is very interested in doing as a part time job, so please spread the word to friends and family who may need some extra help with taxes this year. 
     Thanks for listening to my little infomercial, lol. I'm just doing my wifely duties and supporting my husband's dreams and aspirations. God has been so good to us and I know that if this is in His plans, it WILL happen. Have a wonderful day!!!

75 Days Until Due Date

     I don't know why I hyperventilated when I saw that number, lol. I guess that means I'm literally down to 2 1/2 months (OR LESS!!!) to go. To me, that is just unbelievable...this pregnancy has flown by. I am just so excited...I've got Haleigh's hospital bag packed and ready (yes, she has one of her own, lol) and I'm in the process of figuring out exactly what I'll be taking to the hospital for myself. And I still have to get Noah's diaper bag ready to send with his Nana and Papa (who will be keeping him while we are in the hospital with Haleigh). But yes, I am one happy Mommy to be. I am getting more excited as the days pass and the closer it gets to my due date, the longer it seems to be taking. So it goes, I guess. But, I will take it because I know the second she gets here, it will fly by. God is so good!

Cold, Cold Go Away

     I am getting sick of this cold weather. BRRRR!!! I'm so excited for spring to get here because not only does that mean warm days and sunny skies, but our Haleigh will be here too! *grin*  I'm so looking forward to going on walks with both my babies strapped into the stroller, feeling warmth from sunshine and a mother's love. :-)  
     I can't believe I only have 3 days left until our Noah Bug turns one...sheesh, where has the time gone?  I close my eyes and it seems like yesterday Caleb was laying him in my arms for the first time. I'm just so amazed at his little personality...he definitely keeps me laughing, that's for sure. :-)  Anyways, I'm off of here to relax for a while since Noah is down for his first nap. Have a great day!!!

Dating my Hubby and Valentine's Day Fun

    So, I got to go on a date today with my hubbbbbyyyyy! *grin*  It felt like it did before we were married; carefree with no responsibilities, lol. :-)  Noah got to spend the day with his grandparents and he had such an awesome time. Hubby took me out to eat at one of our favorite places; Fork in the Alley and afterwards took me by Bubblecake for a cupcake. Afterwards we drove around looking for houses for sale and rent, since we are moving out in May! Praise the Lord for that. We found a few that we liked (both for sale and for rent) but we will keep looking until we find one we fall in love with. Basically, I'm looking for a 3 BR, 2 BA, on a basement with a fenced in backyard. Not too specific, huh? It was so much fun...now that we actually have the option of buying a house that we love, instead of settling for something small and not as nice as we would like. 
    Oh, and earlier this morning we went to the Y and got in an awesome workout. Well, we signed Noah up for the Valentine's Parents Night Out (normally $13) and we got a discount, so it only ended up being $7.50...for 4 hours!!!  I was super excited....and so now we are planning a fun evening out together for that day. I am just in such a wonderful mood...knowing that our little boy is back to his old self...happy, smiling and laughing. That, along with my date, has really lifted my spirits. It's nice to not feel so down in the dumps anymore...God is so good and I am thankful for everything He is doing in our lives. :-)

Getting My Positive Back

     So, Noah has officially went 24 hours without a fever....AND, he slept from 8 last night until 6 this morning and didn't wake up. *happy sigh*  I am just so thankful my little boy is back to his old self again. *grin* It made me so happy to wake up to his whining this morning knowing that he had finally gotten some good rest. Caleb's parents are coming over later this afternoon to watch Noah so Caleb and I can have some "us time"...which we both desperately need after the week we've had. I was really looking forward to spending this four day weekend with him, but caring for a sick baby kind of drained our energy and our want to do anything. But, today, since he is back to his old self, I think we are going to go to the Y for a workout, grab lunch somewhere and then go to the movies to see Black Swan. :-)  I'm just so excited to spend this day with my hubby.
     Well, it's off of here to clean up a bit and play with Noah for a while before his first nap of the day.

On the Mend

     Today will mark day five of Noah being sick. When he woke up he still felt terrible...whining constantly, but praise the Lord no fever. He took a nap and when he woke up...still feeling pretty bad. So, we decided to take him out for ice cream...which he loved. Even with that, though, he just wouldn't perk up. Well, someone told me to give him grape juice (which would make him go to the bathroom, since he hasn't went since Thursday)...and IT TOTALLY WORKED!  Let me just say, the kid filled up TWO DIAPERS...and it was an instant change. He was smiling and laughing (still pretty exhausted) but more like his "old self".  I am praying that he continues to improve and feel better...but thank you all so much for the prayers. We couldn't have gotten through this without them. 
     Well, it's off of here now to relax for a little while with the hubby during Noah's nap. It's pretty difficult trying to be a wife when I am on full time Mommy duty, lol. :-)  But, when my baby is sick, it makes it so hard to balance time with the love of my life. I'm so thankful I have such a loving and supportive partner...he is such an amazing father. 

Photoshop Fun

     I thought I would do something to get back into good spirits...something just for me. Well, anyone who knows me knows I LOVE to photoshop; pretty much I love doing anything that has to do with photography! *grin*  I do have to admit it got me back into good spirits...not to mention, I finally broke down and gave Noah Benadryl tonight so he is sleeping much better. I can only hope he is able to sleep through most of the night...we all need the sleep. But, here are my photos! :-)

Down in the Dumps

     So, we had to take Noah back to the doctor again this morning. He woke up screaming and wouldn't stop...no matter what we did. Turns out, he has an extremely bad sore throat (but praise the Lord it's not strep) so we are doing what we can to get him to eat and get him to feeling back to his old self. I'm just so absolutely exhausted, worried, and stressed. I am so thankful my Mom came over to help out today...and Caleb watched Noah (who slept for 3 hours) while Mom and I did grocery shopping. It was nice getting out of the house for a while to somewhere other than a doctor's office. *sighs*  I am just really hoping and praying life gets back to normal soon. This will be the fourth night in a row we haven't gotten any sleep, I'm having more contractions by the day, and I'm just so completely not myself. I'm so ready for Haleigh to be here and I've still got 2-3 months to go...I feel like just breaking down, but I feel so obligated to stay strong for my family. :-(  I always try to keep my blog posts positive but I just can't today...I can't put a positive spin on this no matter how hard I try. I'm sad, worried, down and until my sweet little boy feels better and I get some adequate sleep, I'm going to have trouble continuing to stay positive. Please say a prayer for us if you think of it...we all really need it right now. God bless you all.

Glucose Test

     Oh my goodness...it was absolutely horrible. The entire time I had to keep repeating to myself "this is for Haleigh...this is for Haleigh!"  That's the only thing that got me through it. I had been fasting since 7 last night (and I normally get sick when I don't eat, so this was really rough). Then, I had to drink that horrible glucose drink...not pleasant at all. First, I got sick to my stomach and had to keep running to the bathroom because I thought I was going to puke...God was the only reason I didn't....HE ANSWERS PRAYERS!!! Well, then, as the sugar started rushing through my body I felt drunk...then extremely sleepy...but the entire time extremely nauseous. BLEH!  I am so thankful that it's over with and that my body is finally starting to feel "normal" again.
    Enough about that....little Noah didn't sleep very well at all last night so he has been feeling terrible for most of the day. Caleb watched him this morning while I went to my appointment and it was SO hard leaving him while he was feeling bad. *sighs*  I'm really hoping and praying he starts to feel much better soon. Anyways, I will probably get off of here so I can get some rest before heading out to my grandparents later today. Hope everyone is having a blessed end to their weeks.

Heck to the Yes!!!!

     We FINALLY got our car back today! PRAISE THE LORD!!!! It's been in the shop for repairs for a month now so when they called I was like, "Oh my gosh, are you like, serious?"  The girl started laughing and said yes...I think she thought I was weird, but that's ok...BECAUSE I HAVE MY CAR BACK. And let me just say...it never looked so good. 
     I know it sounds odd to get so excited about getting a vehicle back...I mean, it's just a material item. But when you have to squeeze a child's car seat into a very small, cramped vehicle (as nice as it was) it just sucks. I mean, the sheer convenience of not having to bend over (while simultaneously accidentally knocking my child's head against the top of the car) while buckling it in is awesome!  *grin*  Happy, happy, oh so happy....one extremely ecstatic Mommy INDEED!!!! 
     Update on Noah Bug....he has definitely not been himself today. He is still running a fever, even with Tylenol (although Motrin seems to help a lot more) and is very whiny and clingy. I've pretty much just cuddled him all day because he feels so bad...and I hate it more than anything when Noah is sick. :-(  It makes me sad because I am so used to my happy little boy running around and giggling...not one who doesn't have the strength to pick himself up off the floor. I am just praying, praying, praying so hard that he feels better soon. And I know that the Lord answers prayers!
     Update on Me:  I am going in for my 3 hour glucose test tomorrow morning at 8:30. I don't think it's going to be that bad; just more boring than anything. Even though Caleb has the day off, I refuse to make him and Noah sit there the whole time...so they are going to have some "guy time" together. YAY!  I am thinking about reading a book or even taking my laptop and watching a movie....still haven't quite decided yet, lol. The worst part is, is that I can't eat anything until noon tomorrow...bleh. And can you believe I have been craving oreos for the last hour?  Whaaaaaaaa....*whine* It's ok, though, because Caleb promised me he would take me out to eat where ever I wanted tomorrow after my test...*grin*  I am so blessed. 
     Anyways, I guess I better get off of here for now. I'm absolutely exhausted after today...caring for a sick little one has that effect, lol. I will try to write at some point tomorrow about the results of my test and update you all on Noah. I am very  much looking forward to this four day weekend with my hubby. Goodnight.

I Was Wrong

    What I swore was an ear infection is actually an upper respiratory infection!  Dr. says to "flush it with food!"  As long as Noah stays hydrated and well fed (and we keep his fever down with Tylenol and Motrin). Anyways, little man still isn't feeling well so I'm off of here to play nurse...oh the many hats us Mommies wear.

    I am worried that Noah Bug might have another ear infection. He has been tugging at his ear all day and he has had a ton of drainage. :-(  So, we set up a doctor's appointment in the morning for 9:40 with Dr. Beazely. Hopefully that's all it is and he will go ahead and start him on an antibiotic. At least then I know it will only be a couple days of misery for him. Well, I'm going to get off of here so I can help Caleb put Noah to bed...and pray hard that we get a decent night's sleep tonight. Please continue to pray for little Noah Bug and that the Lord will heal him from this, but in the meantime, let him sleep well at night. Because sleep makes everything better. 

Noah Bug is Sick

     He was doing great this morning when he woke up...even slept from 9 last night until 7:15 this morning. I am just so proud of the little guy. So, we played for a while this morning and I put him down for his first nap around 9:30...he woke up at 11 and just wasn't himself. I fed him spaghetti for lunch (one of his favorites) and he barely touched it. :-(  It was then I started to think something was wrong. Well, I went to pick him up and he was hot to the touch so I took his temperature and sure enough, 102. BLEH. Don't know exactly what it is but I'm just praying that he gets better soon. For my faithful readers out there, please pray that the Lord will heal Noah from this soon! Thanks so much!

Got Me Thinking...

    One of my friends wrote a very interesting blog post today. It really got me to thinking about how so many people in this world are the biggest hypocrites imaginable. UGH. But, anyways, I don't feel too much like ranting, and Erica did a pretty good job of doing that for me, lol...so, hope you enjoy her post; and her blog!

http://eclecticandeccentric.blogspot.com/

10 Days to Go...

...until my baby turns 1!  *grin*  I am so excited and have been looking forward to this day for a while, but in the same sense, I sort of dread it. Just the fact that I'm old enough to have a 1 year old is scary...it feels like yesterday I was meeting Caleb for the first time and realizing the meaning of true love. It just doesn't seem right that I graduated from high school 6 years ago, and it's been almost 2 since receiving my B.A. from Roanoke College. Time has a way of slipping up on us and making a year feel more like a week. For those of you who don't have children, let me just reassure you time flies by even quicker when that first little one arrives. I can just see him now, coming home and telling me he's "in love", driving his first car, graduating from high school, college...getting married. And as far away as that seems sometimes, it's not. Life is going to fly by and before I know it, my sweet little baby boy is going to be having kiddos of his own. It's such a bittersweet feeling...spending the rest of my life wanting him to be happy, but in the same moment, knowing that one day I'm going to have to give him up...hopefully to a sweet, God fearing girl who cherishes him with her whole heart. That will make me the happiest Mom on the planet, I do believe! But God is good and even when I think I won't be strong enough to let my little boy go, He will give me the strength I need in that moment. 
     And another thing that has changed...I used to spend everyday dreaming of what could be. Would I marry Caleb? What flowers should be the centerpiece for the wedding ceremony? Can we really graduate college? Are we going to be able to afford to buy a house soon?  But now, I just enjoy each day as it comes. And sure, I have dreams, but the most important things to me in this life don't require dreams...I know that I will one day spend eternity with my Savior in Heaven, that I am married to the most amazing man on this Earth who loves me unconditionally, and have the two most beautiful children I could have ever asked for. I don't care what the future holds, because I know WHO holds my future. Thanks be to God for each moment He has chosen to bless me with...there is no way I could thank Him enough for this life or for my salvation. I do pray that each of you has a blessed day and if you don't mind, please continue to pray for Haleigh and I...that the glucose test won't indicate I have gestational diabetes. Thanks so much!

Sugar High!

   I got the results back from my glucose test and turns out my levels were elevated. What does this mean for me?  I get to go back on Friday for a 3 hour test, in which they take my blood (and urine samples) five times during the test. I am not a fan of needles, but 5 times in 3 hours is just really going to suck. :-(  I'm praying that everything turns out for the best and I'm really praying I don't have gestational diabetes. There are just so many health risks for the baby and I can't stand the thought of that.
     What really gets to me is that I didn't care about gaining weight at all with Noah Bug...I counted my pregnancy as a license to eat whatever I wanted....BAD IDEA. The 45 pounds I gained was terrible for me (as was my lack of care to exercise)...but even after all of that I didn't have elevated levels on my first glucose test. Now, with this pregnancy, I watch what I eat, I exercise EVERY DAY, and I have only gained 6 pounds. If I have gestational diabetes this is going to be one of the most bizarre things I could imagine...but, so it goes. This is in the Lord's hands and I know His will be done. Even when we don't understand His reasons for things, each one is perfect...we just have to trust and obey!  :-)  But, if you wouldn't mind, please say a prayer for me and Haleigh...that this test will be negative and Haleigh will continue to be healthy. 

My Thoughts Exactly

You're Gonna Be
By Reba McEntire

     As I not so patiently wait on the arrival of my daughter, I am overwhelmed with so many thoughts and emotions. I stumbled upon this song recently (can't believe I've never heard it before) and I loved how it said everything I was thinking and feeling. :-)  Hope you enjoy.

And here is another one called, "Capri" by Colbie Caillat. But, for my own revised version, when I sing it, I replace "capri" with "haleigh"! :-)



But my favorite of all...The Thing's We've Handed Down by one of my favorite artist, Marc Cohen.




I SAW GOD TODAY!

Bladder Infection and Bed Rest

     So, I woke up this morning with horrible pelvic pain (tmi, I know) and lower back pain. As the day progressed it got worse, and by about 4:00 this evening, I was unable to walk. The pain was just so severe so I called the on-call doctor who told me it sounded like a severe bladder infection. He called me in some antibiotics which I went ahead and started. BUT, he also told me not to lift anything heavy and to stay off my feet tomorrow. He is concerned that the bladder infection could cause pre-term labor and wants the antibiotic to have time to get into my system...soooo, for the next 24-48 hours, that means bed rest. UGH. How does he expect me to do this with an 11 month old to chase after?  *sighs*   Anyways, apparently he thinks my bladder is inflamed and the position of the baby could be pushing against the already infected area, which is the reason he gave for "being too painful to walk."  

    Apparently there are many side effects this severe of a bladder infection could cause, so I'm thankful he started me on an antibiotic. Anything I can do to protect Haleigh, I will. (http://www.remedy-bladder-infection.com/pregnancy.html) Please say a prayer for me and little girl in my belly...that the Lord will heal me of this and keep her healthy

28 Weeks

28 Weeks
Weight Gain = 6 lbs

 

HE SAID IT!!!!

     NOAH SAID MAMA TODAY!  It was the very first time he has ever said it...I was like "Caleb...did he just say Mama?"  Caleb confirmed it and I started jumping up and down, yelling hooray, and blubbering like a baby. I know...blame it on the hormones but the kid has been saying Dada since he was six months old...MY BABY FINALLY SAID MAMA!!!! *grin*  That was definitely more than enough to make up for my rotten day, lol. Thanking God for perfect timing and the most precious little boy in the world!!!
YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY!!!

Praise God for Good Friends!

     Thanking and praising God for best friends who would stick by me through anything. I honestly don't know how I could make it through this life without them.



     God is good and I am so thankful to Him for His love, this life he has blessed me with, and a great network of family and friends!

Death by Hormones...

     For one of my stocking stuffers, my parents gave me coupons to Bubblecake...only the YUMMIEST cupcake place on Earth! *grin*  I've had a rough day, filled with raging hormones and plenty of tears to match, so Caleb said he would drive us out there this evening. There is nothing better I can think of than sitting down and sharing some delicious cupcakes with my hubby and little boy. Then, we are heading to finish up buying Noah's birthday decorations...so hopefully the latter part of the day will be better than the first part of the day.
     Grant it, I did wake up feeling totally crummy (yet again due to surging hormones) and my friend texted and asked if I wanted to work out. I said no at first, but then rethought it, and called her back. We ended up going and her wonderful company and my workout did raise my spirits quite a bit. The day went downhill from there for several reasons which I won't go into but still...I know if I wasn't pregnant, things wouldn't get to me so bad. Thinking back on my day, it really wasn't THAT bad, but somehow I seem to be crying over "spilt milk" a lot these days. I know that this too shall pass, I just have to be patient and keep my eyes on God. :-)  
     Anyways, I am going to get off of here and get Noah up from his nap...he has been asleep for almost 2 1/2 hours (WOW)  and I'm going to feed him some dinner before we head out again this evening. Hope everyone is having a great start to their new year! 

Appointment Update

     Yesterday I went for my 27 week appointment and it went wonderful. I'm still waiting to hear back on the results of my glucose test, so I'm praying that comes back with good results. My doctor, Dr. Clapp, is amazing!!! If any of you still need an OB/GYN, she is the perfect person for the job...she is so sweet and caring and you can tell she truly cares for her patients. 
     The nurse weighed me and I was shocked...I had gained a lot less than I had thought I did. The Dr. came in and reviewed my chart with me and said I had only gained 6 pounds in 27 weeks....HECK YES! She even asked me if I was becoming "the regular health nut". I said, yes, I actually was...I can' t stand eating fatty or greasy food and I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE working out. She just smiled and said I was the "perfect patient". Because I'm doing so well I don't have to start coming every 2 weeks, but can wait another month for my next appointment. Sooooo, I go back February 2nd for my 31 week....ahhhh, the joys of pregnancy. 
     Oh, and I have been so excited about one of our insurance's incentives programs. I enrolled in the Future Mom's Program which is amazing. While enrolled, you do an initial over the phone "interview" and then again at 28 weeks. They send you a book, a ton of coupons for different "pregnancy related items" and the best part of it all???!!?!.....we get our hospital deductible waived. The only other thing I have to do is have my teeth cleaned at some point during my pregnancy (which I am going for on February 1st) and then bam...no DEDUCTIBLE!!! So yeah, we are feeling very blessed and I can't believe the ways God is working in our lives. Well, it's off of here for now. We are heading to a friend's house for a play date! *grin*  

God is Good, All the Time

     I have my reasons for posting this but I won't go too much into detail. Just that prayers (many, many prayers sent up for this) have finally been answered. We are so blessed to have such a loving Savior. :-)  
     On a different note, I go back to the doctor today for my 27 week prenatal visit; and have to do the yucky glucose test. They told me not to eat for a couple of hours before I went so now I'm absolutely starving. Bleh. It's ok, though, because my grandparents gave me money to go and grab dinner afterwards....they are the absolute sweetest people you could ever meet! 
     I am so thankful today, for many things.  Although our lives may not go exactly how we have them planned, and things may go wrong, at the end of this life, if we have Christ, none of it will matter. Him, and only Him...for all eternity, that's what we are striving towards. So, if you have hit a rough patch in your life, just clear your mind and allow God to work it out for you...because, my friends, I promise that He will! 
BLESSINGS TO YOU ALL!

Becoming an Early Bird

     Does that mean I get the worm?  *grin*  Whatever that means, haha. But yes, we have officially weaned Noah from his bottle and I couldn't be happier. This means uninterrupted sleep but an earlier wake up time. I'm fine with that...I've actually had a lot more time in the mornings to get stuff done before we start our days. This will also mean getting to the Y earlier which is a huge deal. It takes so much effort to go now anyway, just because I am getting so big in the belly and just getting Noah dressed and ready to go is a workout in itself. He is such a strong little guy I can't believe it sometimes. But, as I've said in the past, I absolutely LOVE the YMCA and am so blessed to have it as part of my life. I gained so much weight when I was pregnant with Noah, but I'm only up to 7 lbs weight gain this pregnancy...I couldn't be prouder. It's not always easy or the most "fun" thing to do...dragging you and your child out into the cold weather, but once you walk through those gym doors and everyone is so welcoming, it makes you feel like you've made a good decision by being there. *grin*  Plus, I've got a couple of really great workout partners who keep me motivated, lol. 
     Anyways, I guess I'm off to the grocery store here in a few minutes. I'm actually looking forward to it because we've run out of pretty much everything. PLUS, I get to pick out decorations for Noah's party today...YAY!  

Back Home, Safe and Sound

     We had an awesome time in Richmond today but I am pretty happy to be home. There's nothing like driving back into Salem after being gone for a while...a feeling I can't quite put into words. Caleb performed magic this morning and then we headed out to grab some lunch...and guess where it was?!?!?!  We love the show, Man vs. Food on the Travel Channel so we decided to look up where he had eaten at for his trip to Richmond. We found this awesome BBQ joint and decided to eat there. It was pretty awesome visiting a place we had only seen on TV...plus, the food was AMAZING. I'm already having a craving for it, lol. After that, we headed up to the Capitol and looked around there for a while...it was a really nice part of town. Our final stop was the Science Museum of Richmond, which we both loved. Compared to Roanoke's Science Museum....well, let's just say it didn't compare. The one is Richmond was huge and filled with awesome exhibits...I actually felt like I learned a few things. :-)  And that always makes me happy.
     I'm waiting on my friend Becca to bring Noah back home. It sounds like he had an awesome time today playing with his friends...it's great to know I have someone so trustworthy I can leave him with. *grin* Many people aren't blessed in this way. I did miss him like ca-razy though, lol...it will be nice to get some Noah snuggles soon! :-)  Well, I'm off to clean some stuff up before he gets home and then it's off to bed early. Ohhhhh, speaking of that, I completely forgot to brag on Noah Bug. This was his 3rd night in a row without a bottle, BUT, last night was different. It was the first time he has slept through an entire night, without a bottle, without waking up. I couldn't believe it....but I'm definitely looking forward to this new milestone. It means uninterrupted sleep (even if it's just until Haleigh gets here) and that thought alone keeps a smile on my face. I hope everyone has had a wonderful and blessed day! 

OH GOSH

    I just looked at my countdown clock and it said we only have 89 days left to go. WOW!  That's seriously like less than 3 months....:-)  I am getting so excited. Just watching the number of days drop is awesome...can't believe we are down to less than 12 weeks to go. I'm just praying that the Lord works everything out and that maybe we will have the opportunity to avoid a c-section. I really, really don't want another one. I'm so worried that I won't be able to keep up with Noah and Haleigh after Caleb goes back to work...because at best, it's going to take at least 2 weeks for me to heal. Anyways, just keep praying for us. :-)

Richmond Bound

    Caleb and I are heading to Richmond bright and early tomorrow morning. We're getting up at 5 a.m. and dropping Noah Bug off with friends and then continuing on our way. I am so very excited...even though this is for Caleb's job (magic), it's still going to be fun getting away with the hubby. We are definitely looking forward to having some "us" time for a while. Anyways, just wanted to ask that everyone pray for safe travel and that things go well with Caleb's magic show...he is pretty nervous but I know he is going to do a great job! :-)  He always does. *grin*  Have a blessed night and I will be back with you soon.

Yaaaawwwwwnnnnn!

     Yep, that pretty much sums it up for the day. :-)  Noah went a second night in a row without a bottle...PRAISE THE LORD!!! (I may even be inclined to do my victory dance later, lol..I'm really that proud of him). The down side to this is a new sleep schedule. Before, he was waking up at 4am for a bottle and then sleeping until 8 or 8:30 am. Now, he wakes up at 4 wanting a bottle, but we just walk with him and put him back down to sleep...and then, he decides he is ready to be up at 6 or 6:30 every morning. This is fine and I gladly welcome the challenge of adjusting my schedule but I'm very sleep deprived which is causing me to have migraines. And basically, my migraines render me useless. Before I had Noah Bug, I popped an Excedrin, shut myself up in a dark room, no noise, with a washcloth on my eyes...and it normally only dulled the pain. Now, as you can probably guess, life has changed a bit. Farewell to the days of darkened bliss...now it's lights on, toys blaring, and chasing around a toddler. It's ok...I enjoy the life the Lord has given me and I will gladly take the bad days with the good!  :-)

The Love Dare

    I am so excited because Caleb and I are finally starting the book tonight. We were supposed to start on January 1, but because of crazy schedules and everything, we pushed everything until the start of the week. I already feel like Caleb and I have such a loving marriage, but I want to continue to put God at the center of it. I know that with this journey we are about to embark on, it will bring us close not only to each other, but also to the Lord. Please pray for us as we make this special attempt at continuing to serve and love God and growing our love for  each other. Good night everyone!

SUCCESS!

"singing* "We did it, we did  it...we really, really did it!"  That's right peoples....NOAH WENT THE ENTIRE NIGHT WITHOUT A BOTTLE!!! *grin*  Grant it, I have been up with him since 4:30 a.m rocking him and comforting him since he was upset about not having a bottle. But, he didn't throw any tantrums...just pretty much whined and whimpered for a couple of hours. This is such a big deal for us because this is the first night since we was born that he didn't have a bottle, and the first time that he has made it through an entire 24 hours without one. *grin*  Even though I feel like a complete zombie this morning I can't stop smiling. I am so proud of our little boy. And I know that even though he made it through last night without one, it's still going to be several more days before we get back into a regular sleep routine. But, God is good and He will give us the patience and strength we need to get through it. Have a blessed day!

Guilty Indulgence

    Ok, ok, I did it...I ate ice cream. *bows head in shame*  *GRIN*  Actually, it's not that big of a deal, but I swore off ice cream at the beginning of this pregnancy because that was my number one craving when I was pregnant with Noah...after I ate it once, I couldn't stop, thus resulting in a 45 pound weight gain. So, in the past 6 months, I have only eaten the yummy frozen treat twice, but oh my goodness, it was OH SO GOOD! :-)  It was nice to indulge even if it did make me feel a bit guilty afterwards. I made up for it by telling myself the walk we took before I ate it had put my metabolism into overdrive...*smile* Either way, I end the night grinning and happy with the taste of "heaven in a bowl* on my tongue. This was a strange post but as I have never claimed to be "normal", I think it works. :-)  Have a wonderful evening friends!

Noah's First Year

     Caleb and I created a video to play at Noah's first birthday party. It's a slideshow set to music of our collection of pictures over this past year...I can't believe how much he has changed! *grin*

Bringing in the New Year with a Tantrum

     So, I've decided weaning Noah from his night bottle is going to kill me and Caleb both. The kid screams and throws a horrible tantrum...the ONLY time he has ever done that. :-(  I am seriously considering waiting another month and then trying again; I keep telling myself he just isn't ready to have that one last bottle taken away. If you think of it, please say a prayer for us...we are all sleep deprived and don't feel the best. This is the second night in a row it's been this way. I feel like a terrible Mom for not listening to my pediatrician (who wants him off the bottle completely by age 1) but at the same time, I am NOT going to let him cry himself to the point of vomiting...to me, that's torture. :-(  Anyways, I pray that each of you has a fantastic first day of 2011 and that God may continue to bless you all this year.