35 Weeks

     I can't believe it...we are in our FINAL month of pregnancy!!! How cool is that? Haleigh has been very active but I can definitely tell she is running out of room...poor girl. :-)  Noah still doesn't "quite" understand what all this "baby sister" stuff is about, but we're hoping he isn't TOO jealous when she gets here. I'm still praying that she comes on her own so I don't have to go through with a repeat c-section, but that is all in God's hands and I trust Him 100%. Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and has enjoyed this gorgeous weather. 

House Shopping

     My take on it? Not nearly as fun as shopping for shoes....*grin*! So, yeah, Caleb and I have been on the house hunt for 2 months now and I definitely haven't fallen in love yet. :-)  There are houses that I like, and some that I've liked liked, but nothing that makes me go crazy head over heels. Today we are going to look at another house in Salem and I'm praying that I get a good feeling about it...I think I'm starting to get really nervous because Haleigh will be here in less than five weeks and our lease is up in May, soooooo, that kind of puts me on edge. I will continue to trust God and believe with my whole heart He has the perfect home for us...and daily remind myself that patience is worth having! 

Maternity Photos

    My best friend, Becca, did my maternity photos for this pregnancy...and they turned out AWESOME! She is so talented (although she would never admit it, lol) and I am blessed to have her for a friend...and now a photographer. *grin* I will be sharing a few of them on here right now, but will save the majority of them for later. Hope each of you has had an amazing day...enjoy the rest of your weeks!

 

5 Weeks to Go

     That's 35 days...WOW!!! I'm really starting to freak out...I don't even have my hospital bag packed yet...and I've still got to make room for the homemade cradle from Caleb's parents. I really shouldn't be panicking but still, it's hard not to with only several weeks left to go. Anyways...I'll try to chill, lol.
     I am currently at Starbucks enjoying a latte and some peace and quiet. Noah's grandma came over to spend a couple of hours with him this morning so I could get out of the house for a little while. :-)  And let me just say, I truly believe this is the most relaxed I have been in quite a while. God is so good! 
     I hope all of you are having a blessed day!  
    

A Day at the Park

Caleb snapped this shot...I couldn't believe how big I've gotten! :0)

Mama with her big boy.

My Sister Rebekah

Noah is looking more like his Daddy by the day.

SLIDE!!!

Can't believe we have a toddler on our hands! *GRIN*

Today was so much fun! We decided to try out a new park, called Troutville Town Park today. It was such a neat place to take Noah; they have a walking path, a caboose the kids can climb on, swings, see saws, a merry go round, and basketball and tennis courts. I couldn't believe how many different things there were to do, but we had a great time. Noah enjoyed getting to spend some time with his Aunt Becca and Grandma Johnston, so that was a great addition to the day. We also stopped at Blue Collar Joe's for some doughnuts and coffee...couldn't have imagined a more perfect day to spend with my family on hubby's day off! 

Wonder How Much This Has Happened to Me

LINK

Noah Whately 13 Months Old

He thought it was hysterical when his Daddy stood him in the washing machine!

Our busy little Noah Bug!!!

     Can you believe my baby boy is turning 13 months old tomorrow?  Sheesh...I am in shock, lol. And not only is he walking, he is RUNNING. I literally have a toddler on my hands....which is great for his development (Dr. Beazely says he has reached all the milestones for an 18 month old and half of the ones for a 24 month old). I just wish I had more energy to chase him around, lol....but, in a couple of months after I heal from having Haleigh, I will have more energy than I know what to do with, hopefully. I know that shedding these extra 15 pounds will be a huge blessing...and hopefully breastfeeding Haleigh will help drop a few pounds too. Here is another picture of our not so little boy! :-)

Almost 13 Months

Almost 34 Weeks

     I CANNOT believe we have a maximum of 5 weeks to go...and there is a small possibility she will be here in as few as 3!!! :-)  I just can't believe but me and hubby are so looking forward to seeing our beautiful baby girl soon!  Here are a few pictures for this week's belly shots!!!

A New Perspective

Caleb...For All Those Sweet Kisses!

Good News All Around

     I woke up this morning dreading today...the day of my Father In Law's memorial service. But, it turned out to be such an uplifting day. We got to the church around 11:30 am, had lunch with all of the family and then got ready for visitation at 1pm. I won't lie...I spent most of the time in the church nursery playing with Noah (he wasn't in the greatest mood today) so I didn't "visit" with people as much as my husband did. My parents got to the church and offered to watch Noah while Caleb and I went upstairs to the memorial service; which worked out great. All of the family was seated and the service I was so greatly dreading began. But, it wasn't sad like most of the funerals I've been to were...which only really celebrated the death of the individual who had passed away. Today was DIFFERENT....GOOD DIFFERENT. It didn't ritualize the death, but the life; not only the life of Chuck and all of his accomplishments, but an eternal life with Christ in Heaven.  So many people spoke about the godliness that surrounded him throughout his life...some of the words to describe him were honesty, faithfulness, loving....and the list goes on and on. 
     After the service ended, so many people came up to hug us and give us their love, prayers and support. Many of these people Caleb and I had not seen in over a year...but it truly was a happy reunion. God continues to show us each day that we are surrounded by friends...some we didn't even know we had! *smile* After all of the greeting was done and we were ready to head home, I spent a few minutes thanking God for the day. So thankful for the uplifting service, the kind words, but most especially for my salvation...knowing that one day (not so far away) I will be reunited with not only Chuck but all of my friends and family who have already joined Christ in Heaven. That reminds me of something my husband stood up and said during the service...he spoke to the crowd gathered together to remember Chuck "All of you call yourselves his friend...keep it that way!" He then went on to witness to everyone there, asking that if they hadn't received Christ into their hearts, that they do so, so that they could one day join his Dad in Heaven. It melted my heart when my husband spoke those words today...he could have said anything he wanted to about his Dad, but instead, he chose to witness in the same way his Dad had always done...absolutely beautiful! :-)
     If that wasn't enough to cheer me up, my Mom called me when we were on our way back home and said the doctors had finally figured out what was wrong with my Grandma. She has what they call and "overactive thyroid" so they are putting her on medication to fix the problem. I was so relieved....and we know for sure it's not her heart because the results of her stress test showed that her heart is fine...in perfect working order. It's just the thyroid that was causing the heart palpitations, anxiety attacks, and chest pain...along with several other issues she had been having. That just made my day knowing that she is being released from the hospital tomorrow...PRAISE THE LORD!
     After the long, exhausting day we had, we made a quick decision and decided to head out to Burlington before going home. We bought the infant car seat which matches the new double stroller we purchased...so we are ready for Haleigh to get here. And speaking of that, we have 5 weeks left to go, as of this upcoming Monday. And that's if I don't go into labor on my own...so it could be as few as 3 weeks. WOW!!! God sure has a way of lifting one's spirits after a terrifyingly long week. 
     Before I go, I would like to ask that you continue to pray for peace and healing for the family...losing a spouse, parent, friend etc. is always difficult, but God's healing hand can make it better. Also, if you don't mind, continue to pray for Haleigh and I and that we both remain healthy and make it through labor and delivery safely. Thanks to you all!!

Charles Fredric Johnston (Obituary)

Charles Fredric (Chuck) Johnston, 69, of New Castle, Va., went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on February 13, 2011. He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Patricia (Pat) Jones Johnston; children, Kelly Johnston, Will Johnston, Chip Johnston and wife, Tiffany, Caleb Johnston and wife, Raquel, and Rebekah Johnston; grandchildren, Joe, Kase, Garrett, Chloe, Noah, and Haleigh; and brother, Mark Johnston and wife, Barbara. A Memorial Service to celebrate his life will be held 2 p.m. Thursday, February 17, 2011, at Craig Valley Baptist Church with visitation to start at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Samaritan Inn, 543 Salem Ave., SW, Roanoke, Va. 24016. Arrangements by Paitsel Funeral Home. www.paitselfh.com. 
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
1 John 1:9


http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/roanoke/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=148654510

Taking the Good with the Bad

     I got a phone call from my Mom this morning...more bad news; my Granny Jones had to be admitted to the hospital during the night for severe chest pains. They are running many tests to try to determine the cause...she is waiting to be seen by the heart doctor now...so I will update as I know more.
     On a positive note, I got a call from Lewis Gale early this afternoon. It was the scheduling office calling to set up my c-section. We decided to wait until 39 weeks to give Haleigh two weeks to come on her own...so if she isn't here before, my c-section is scheduled for Wednesday March 30th, at 7:30 am. That's only 43 days away (You can bet I'm counting down the days, lol)...5 1/2 weeks! Even in the midst of so much chaos, I have to continue to look for the happy, uplifting moments. Can't believe I"m going to be holding our little girl so soon!!!

There is a Silver Lining

     I didn't think it was possible for so many things to go wrong in the span of 2 days...but they have. As most of you know, Caleb's Dad passed away yesterday morning...a total shock to us all. We've been dealing with and grieving over that...not really knowing how to handle it; at least not me. I wish I could explain my feelings in this but all I can do is praise God for providing me with a shield...I have had an inner strength I didn't know was possible. There have been moments when I've wanted (and probably needed) to break down and cry...just cry out everything I've been feeling (and I've done this a few times already) but then I will look into my little boy's face, with that amazing smile, and somehow, things/life seems ok. It's so strange to think that life can change so quickly...in the blink of an eye, but knowing that I have the Lord to go to during these moments...that is the reason for this strength, and hope that things will be ok again. 
     After yesterday, I didn't think things could get much worse, but I got a phone call from my Mom this afternoon around 4:30...right after my prenatal appointment. She told me there was a fire burning on CC Mountain across from their house, and they might be evacuated. I've seen the news and read the many comments on Facebook...over 200 acres are burning in Craig right now. Flames that threaten the homes of my parents, grandparents, and aunt and uncle. Fire that could in a split second destroy every piece of childhood memorabilia that exists for me...and then, the guilt which comes with those thoughts. Those are material things...my family is safe and in knowing that, how can I fret?  My  husband lost his Father yesterday, my Mother in Law lost her husband, and I'm worried about MATERIAL ITEMS?  I am completely and hopelessly spent...exhausted from two days worth of tears and worry. I don't know how I'll be able to keep this up much longer and I'm so worried I will send myself into preterm labor. I have to keep reminding myself to trust and obey my Savior...even though that's a very difficult thing to do right now.
    But, in the midst of all these horrible things, God provided some relief. I went to my 33 week OB/GYN appointment today and Haleigh is doing wonderful. Her heartbeat was 131 bpm and she was measuring perfectly. We went ahead and decided to schedule a c-section for 39 weeks...so if she doesn't come on her own, she will be here no later than March 30th. I can't wait to hold my little girl...because if Noah gives me this much strength by simply smiling, I can't imagine how strong I will be when I have the smiles of two angels. GOD IS GOOD! 

33 Weeks Today

  
   And I am heading to the doctor for my prenatal appointment at 3:15. I had originally thought about rescheduling it due to everything going on this week, but I'm trying to maintain as normal of a routine as possible. I will try to repost later this evening with an update of how it went.
    Please continue to pray for Caleb and his family.

Remembering Chuck

Chuck,
     You have always been an inspiration to me...your amazing love for Christ, and the joy it gave you to pass that knowledge down to your children, let me know you were an amazing person from the moment I met you. We didn't always get along, and had our fair share of disagreements, but what family doesn't? As we celebrate your life this week and the memories you've left behind for us to cherish, I know that you will be looking down from Heaven smiling; not wanting us to be sad or lonely. But, as humans, we unfortunately are forced to face human emotions...we are sad and miss you with a heart wrenching pain already. 
     You have left behind a legacy in your children and I am so blessed the Lord chose one of them to become my husband. Caleb is by far more than I could have ever imagined a husband would be...he takes care of me with a love that can only be described as Godly. His love for our children, Noah and little baby girl Haleigh, overwhelms me at times. He was always scared about becoming a Daddy, but he thrives at it.  He would not be that husband or father today if you had not shown him how. 
     God's love surrounds us each day and we can see it, feel it, experience it, in every moment; many times without trying to. God is good and even in the midst of this pain I feel in being separated from you, I also have joy in knowing that we will spend an eternity in Heaven together. God has promised us that and what a glorious promise that is! Thank you for your love, your laughter, your many, many lectures, but most importantly, for being so willing to share the Love of Christ to everyone you met. You will be greatly missed but forever remembered as a loving husband, dad, friend, and disciple of Christ. 
Love,
Raquel

Happy Valentine's Day

My Dearest Caleb,
     I couldn't sleep after you left...my mind is all over the place this morning. I wanted to tell you I LOVE YOU! I can't imagine going through life without you in it...even in the face of loss and heart wrenching sadness, you remain glowing with God's strength. This has given me a peace which I cannot begin to thank you enough for. I am so thankful God brought us together so that each year on this special day, YOU can be my Valentine! God is so good and in His perfect plan, we will thrive...even in the midst of sadness. Today will be hard, and I imagine many days to follow will as well...but with us clinging to the Love of the Lord, and to each other, we will make it through this. Happy Valentine's Day, best friend. I love you.

Love,

Mrs. Johnston (for all eternity)

Aches and Pains

     I think the Lord blesses us with the ability to have "pregnancy amnesia" otherwise, I don't think many women would choose to get pregnant for a second time. I really don't remember having contractions that hurt this bad when I was carrying Noah in my belly...but Caleb says I complained about the contractions quite often towards the end of the pregnancy. I've definitely decided that this is a God-Thing...allowing us to forget what the last few weeks of being preggers is like...and I couldn't thank Him enough for that! *smile*  I feel so overwhelmed somedays...completely and totally ready to have Haleigh here with us so I can work on getting back into good enough shape to chase after these little ones. Sweet little Noah already keeps me running, and even though I love every second of it, it sure is exhausting! :-)  
    It's been a couple of days since I've written so I just wanted to do a quick update. I go back to the doctor on Monday for my 33 week checkup and I'm getting so excited about that visit. I can't wait to hear little girl's heartbeat again...it makes my day. I'll also probably find out whether she is head down or not (and I'm guessing she is because I am pretty sure that he little feet is what keeps kicking at my ribs constantly). Caleb and I have also discussed delivery options/plans. We are hoping for a VBAC but I have to go into labor on my own for that...absolutely NO inductions my Dr. says...which is fine. So, we are giving her until 39 weeks to come on her own, and if she isn't here by then, we will be scheduling a c-section at my 39 week checkup. So, please keep us in your prayers and that if it be God's will, He will allow Hales to come on her own. Hope each of you is having a fantastic week!

Living the Life

     Woke up this morning feeling refreshed and surprising energetic which I think has something to do with my AMAZING hubby getting up with Noah yesterday morning; I got to sleep in until 8:30!!!! That hasn't happened since...well, I can't remember, lol. *grin*  So, anyways, I woke up bright and early this morning, fed me and Noah breakfast and headed to the Y. I got in a great workout, which raised my spirits even more. Then, I headed back home to put Noah Bug down for his first nap of the day and the kid slept for 2 1/2 hours...let me just say this Mommy was more than thrilled! We had out lunch and I watched the weather...which said it was supposed to be in the 50s today...ummmm, yeah, I don't think so. Anyways, I decided to take Noah to the park to play and it was FREEZING cold....brrr. But, we had an awesome time anyways. :-)  I chased him around the playground, and then he chased me. We "played" Tic Tac Toe but Noah was more interested in messing up my perfect lines of OOOs, lol! The kid cracks me up...I couldn't thank God enough for my wonderful little boy...who is growing up WAY too fast in my opinion. 
     Now, we are back at home, waiting on Dada and fixing dinner....roasted chicken and mashed potatoes...currently debating on whether or not to fix gravy to go with it. Guess I'll see how I feel in a couple of hours when the bird comes out of the oven, lol. Anyways, I hope each of you is having an amazing, blessed day! Off of here to cuddle up on the couch and watch a Baby Einstein DVD with my Noah.

VIA Baby Gaga

MY SWEET ANGEL BOY!

It's hard to believe how quickly he is growing up. What a wonderful blessing he is!

Almost 32 Weeks

   I seriously have NO idea how I'm going to make it through these last few weeks. :-(  I feel incredibly huge, tired, worn out...and little girl isn't even here yet. *sighs*  But, God is so very good and I know that with His help, I CAN and WILL make it through the next one to two months. :-)  Can't wait for Haleigh Marie to get here SOON!!!

Exhausted Beyond Belief

    I was up half the night with growing pains in my belly...this little girl is getting BIG and I'm feeling it! Not to mention, my little Noah has been up at 6am every morning. I'm exhausted beyond belief and I can't wait until Hales graces us with her presence.  Please say a prayer that the Lord will restore my energy!

60 Days Until Due Date

That's 8 WEEKS!!!! Oh my goodness...I"m seriously starting to flip out, lol..in a good way of course. I'm SO excited and these last 2 months couldn't go by quickly enough. I'm actually starting to get tired of being pregnant...I just want Haleigh here in my arms and out of my tummy! *smile* And I keep praying that God brings her to us WITHOUT major surgery this time. I have faith that He can do ALL things and if this is in His will, it WILL happen. :-)  Well, I've got a fussy little boy ready for some Mommy snuggles so it's off of here to spend the day with my baby boy. Have a blessed day.

Appointment Went Well

     So, the doctor says me and Hales are doing wonderfully. He checked out my c-section scar to make sure there weren't any signs of tearing...and there isn't...PRAISE GOD. :-)  My blood pressure was great, Haleigh's heartbeat was right on track for where it needs to be, and my weight was good...11 pounds so far in 31 weeks. I'm pretty proud of that! Then, we discussed VBAC vs. c-section again...basically, if I haven't went into labor on my own by 39 weeks, I have the option of scheduling a c-section (that being the doctor's number 1 suggestion). Basically, because my reason for having a c-section with Noah was failure to progress (I only made it to 3 1/2 cm) they are concerned that may happen again with Haleigh. And there could be major complications if I go into labor on my own this time versus just going ahead and scheduling to have another c-section. I'm still leaning towards a VBAC, so I guess we will see. Please pray that the Lord answers our prayers and we will be able to have this little girl without me having to have major surgery. Thanks to all.

31 Week Checkup

     Today I'm heading to the doctor for my 31 week prenatal visit. WOW!!! I can't believe we are so close to holding our beautiful little Haleigh. :-)  As the day of her arrival approaches, I'm getting overwhelmed by so many thoughts and emotions. Mainly just thrilled to hold her for the first time, but also wondering how I will manage a newborn and a toddler. But, this is in the Lord's hands and I know He will see us through it. Anyways, I will try to write later about my visit...praying that my doctor will check me today to see if I'm effacing and also check the position of the baby...but we shall see. So. Very. Excited.