Christmas & News

Family left this morning. Although it was not a traditional Christmas in Paducah, it was a good Christmas. We played games, watched TV, went shopping the day after Christmas, and ate GOOD food. It was a lot of fun being around family. Here are a few pictures:

The little miss slept through the entire service! She did great!

Sydney has really started smiling. We were lucky enough to catch this one with a camera.

As tradition, the Anderson boys cooked Christmas breakfast. It was good...eggs and bacon! Yum!

And now for the news....

Ryan and I got great news over the Christmas holiday...Chris & Laura (Ryan's brother & his wife) are pregnant!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so excited!! I'm going to be an aunt!! Now that we have had a child, we are so much more excited to hear of others having children. There really isn't anything else like it in the world! I am so excited to be an aunt, but I'm more excited that they will get to experience what we have been experiencing the last 2 months!! Congrats you two!! We love you!

The other news...my cousin Leah is pregnant!! That one competely took us by surprise! I am so tickled for them. She is such a sweet person & will make a great mother.

Both ladies are due in August. Next summer will be a fun time for both sides of our family!! I can't wait to share in this time with both families. Love you both!!

Two months!!

It is so hard to believe that she is already two months old. Yesterday was her two month birthday. What did she get to do?! Get 4 shots!! She handled it just like her momma would--kicking and screaming! But, what else would you expect from an infant?! Her momma...yeah I'm not that bad anymore. :-) I still don't like needles, but at least I don't kick and scream.

The doctor gave her a clean bill of health yesterday. That is a very good thing especially since Ryan and I have both been fighting off colds the last couple of days. We've tried to keep her occupied without picking her up and getting her close to our faces, but sometimes you just have to. So, I praise God that she has been able to stay healthy.

That is about all we have going on right now. Hope you all have a great Thursday!!

Changes and Christmas

Sydney is changing so fast. She has started cooing a little bit. It is so cute. She has also started rubbing her eyes when she's tired. I even heard her laugh in her sleep the other night. That alone melted my heart!

I had one of our ministers tell me shortly after she was born that you fall in love with your child more and more each day. I didn't have a huge bond with her at birth. I expected to be so overwhelmed. I was in ways, but not like I thought I would be. So, that day I took comfort in his words. I now agree. Each day I am with her (and probably even if I was away from her) I fall in love with her more and more. She really is the best thing that has ever happened to either one of us.

I can't believe she is 8 weeks old today! She will be 2 months in 5 days!!! Wow! Time sure does fly. Here are a few pictures of her lately.

Christmas will be here in 10 days!! I can't wait! Normally at this point I'm running around trying to finish getting presents & thinking of packing, but this year I don't have as many to buy for and family is coming to us. After going in at Thanksgiving, I am glad that family is coming here. It was GREAT seeing everyone, but it was a little stressful being in someone else's home (of course, they were my parents but still...) and having a screaming baby at night. It is one thing for her to disrupt our sleep in our home, but I hated that she was waking up my brother & parents. Plus having to pack everything she might need and enough of it was crazy! It was a lot of fun being in, but I'm glad we'll have a little time between visits.

I can't wait until family gets here. We get the chance to be with our families only a few times a year. So, the times that we do get we cherish. It will be fun to have them all here even if it is for a few days.

Christmas is my favorite time of year. I love the lights, music, and spirit that it brings. You see people being nice to others just because. Sure, there are some that aren't but as a whole our spirits are lighter and more positive of what the new year can bring. I just wish we kept this type of generosity and love throughout the year. What a much better place we would be.

To you all (since this will probably be my last post before Christmas), I wish you the best this Christmas. May these days be filled with wonderful memories to be cherished for years to come.

Seeing Santa

Friday night Ryan and I took Sydney to see Santa. She did GREAT!! I was worried she would be fussy or even worse, spit up on Santa. She didn't. She just looked up at him & looked around at all the lights. I was so happy. I know she doesn't know the difference, but it was still neat to get the picture. It was a treasured time that I'll never forget.

After visiting Santa, we headed to Bret & Summer's. Along with the Kimberlins, we listened to Christmas music, played Domino's, chatted, & got home at 2 AM!! It was a ton of fun!! Thanks Morris family for having us!! We got pics in front of their tree that I hope to post soon.

I hope you all are enjoying this holiday season!

This is a picture of the four generations. Crazy! We went in to Paducah for Thanksgiving. It took us 11 hours to get there. The drive wasn't bad at all. Sydney slept almost the whole way there & back. She would wake up when she was hungry, but that was about it.

It was so neat to be in to see our family meet Sydney for the first time. They couldn't get enough of her. I only wish she could look back on these days and see how much they adore her. I know she will know that, but I wish she could see it with my eyes. She would know how deeply she is loved by people who only get to see her every now and then. How amazing family is!

Thanksgiving is a time to look at our lives and take note of what we should be thankful for. I am most thankful for my family--immediate and extended. I am so lucky to have such loving people around me, and I am thankful that my daughter will know such wonderful people.

Sunday was Sydney's first Sunday to go to church & she did GREAT!! I was so nervous that she would start crying during Scott's sermon (since that is when she would normally be getting fed), but she didn't. She slept through the whole thing. When she woke up on our way home she quickly let us know that she was hungry, and I fed her as soon as we got home.

It was so nice to be back at church. Since being on bedrest, I've been out for a little over a month. It has made me feel so disconnected. So, it was great to see everyone again. Next Sunday Ryan has to drill, so we'll see how it goes getting both of us ready by myself!! That should be an experience!

Sydney has been doing great. The doctor deemed her normal at her last doctor's appointment. I was so excited to hear that!!! Now we're dealing with "normal". She has been sleeping for long amounts of time during the day and short amounts of time at night. She will sleep at night, but she wakes up more frequently. So, I'm battling that during the week and with Ryan's help on the weekend. I am SO thankful to have his help during the weekends. It gives me a chance to get some real rest and become a normal functioning human being again.

Today has the potential to make tonight GREAT. She has been awake since 9:15 am all but about an hour!! Hopefully it will make her sleepy for tonight. I'm keeping my fingers crossed!!

Today on Oprah there was a lady who says she knows the secret language of babies. Now, normally I would be skeptical, but every "word" she said the babies would say I have heard!! Sydney really does make those exact noises. So, we're going to test it out and see if it works. It can't hurt, that's for sure!

My loves...

My mom captured this picture while she was here. So sweet!!!

Day at the park

Sunday we spent about 30 minutes at the park. Sydney slept through most of it, but Ryan and I had a great time. :-) I thought I would share this picture with you.

Love to you all!!

She's here!!!

My baby girl is here!! She arrived Friday at 3:56 PM weighing 7 lb. 2 oz. and was 19 1/4 in. I haven't blogged about it because the days following her birth were extremely stressful & I was not home. She had breathing problems...rapid breathing. She also had a high white blood cell count--meaning it looked like she had an infection although they could never pinpoint what the infection was. They kept her in the nursery Friday night & it looked like she had gotten better by Saturday morning. We were able to keep her in my room on Saturday. It was great spending time with her. Saturday night while feeding her I noticed her breathing became rapid again & I called the nurse. She took her to the nursery and then decided to have a NICU nurse come monitor. They decided to take her to the NICU to monitor her overnight. Overnight turned in to being admitted into the NICU. I was terrified of what was going on with this precious child...terrified of what might happen. I cried and cried. The nurse then suggested that I take an Ambien so that I could sleep. Well...the Ambien, Lortab, baby blues, and exaustion did not mix well. I definitely turned into a crazy person! Poor Ryan had to calm me to get me to sleep. We spent the next two days visiting her as they would allow. On Monday night they released her to the pediatric floor where we stayed until Thursday at noon. Thursday (6 days after her birth) we finally got to come home!!! She is doing well now & we are very thankful!!

Thanks to all for your thoughts and prayers during this time. We are grateful to everyone.

Friday's the day

We found out today that I will be induced Friday morning at 6 AM! I can't believe it. The time is almost here. There are a whole range of emotions going through my head! I'm excited, scared, nervous, anxious, ready, NOT ready, happy, elated, terrified, etc. You get the picture. Any emotion that I can possibly feel for any reason, I'm feeling it. Of course the emotions are based on all aspects of Friday. I don't look forward to the pain of labor, but I can't wait to meet my daughter. I'm thankful that family and friends will be here, but it makes me nervous & hope they will all get along. I'm ready to have her and get off this couch, but I'm terrified to come home & have us be alone to take care of her (Will I know what to do?!) I could go on and on, but those are probably the main ones. I have to say the main emotion that I'm feeling is relief. I'm so thankful that I have been able to carry her for 9 months & she is safe and healthy. I can't wait to have her in my arms & know for sure that she is healthy & well.

Please keep me and this little one in your prayers on Friday. Keep Ryan in your prayers as well. He will have a lot to deal with that day...me. Our families will be traveling, so please pray for their safety.

Thanks blogger friends for listening & praying the past 9 months!! I will post pictures as soon as we get them & I am able to.

Love you all!!

One week left!

Yesterday I went to the doctor and found out his "plan". While I was doing a test, he gave Ryan the low-down. Ryan was quite pleased with knowing before me so that he could rub it in a little bit. But I soon found out that the doctor said he would induce next Friday (20th) if I don't have her before. Yay! Only one week to go! I am so ready. I know everyone says the hard part starts after she's born & I fully believe them. I'm just so sick of being tied to this couch or bed! It gets old fast. I can't imagine having to be on bedrest for months. I had a friend that had that happen & she was so amazingly positive. I would go nuts!

Anyway, knowing that I have only one week left has started to make me quite anxious and nervous. I wasn't nervous at all until he told me that. I guess it is just reality that it is actually going to happen soon. I'm pretty good at handling things that are difficult emotionally or mentally. Physically, however, I'm not so good. I don't know anyone who enjoys pain, but I'm not a big fan. I so admire people who have had babies naturally, but that is not for me. I don't even have the desire to know how it feels! All of that to say that I am quite anxious.

So, next Friday keep me in your thoughts and prayers. Pray that I handle giving birth with grace & don't drive Ryan too crazy!! Most of all, pray that this little one has a safe arrival.

Thanks for listening!! Hope you all have a great weekend full of fun things to do! ;-)

We hit another milestone

Yesterday marked the 6th anniversary since our 1st date. That night we went to church and then to Applebee's for dinner. At that dinner, we ran into an old girlfriend of Jon's (who I quickly understood why she was an old girlfriend!). She proceeded to scoot me over so she could sit down and talk to Ryan. I was quite annoyed, but tried to play it off. Later, I found out that Ryan was pretty annoyed as well.

Ryan and I had been talking over the phone, emailing, and talking in AIM since May. So, we had been in contact quite a bit, but this was the first date. I was more nervous for this date than I had ever been! We really seemed to click. He KNEW me. He could read me better than anyone ever could and yet we weren't even really dating. That had me quite vulnerable and I was so nervous about it. Anyway, the date went perfectly. He was such a gentleman.

Now 6 years later, he is still a gentleman and can read me like a book. I no longer feel vulnerable. I feel comforted. I don't have to act like anyone else. I can be ME! I am so thankful that he asked me out 6 years ago. We are a perfect fit. Love ya, Babe!

Not much new

I haven't blogged recently because there hasn't been much to blog about. I'm still on bedrest although my blood pressure has been normal lately. So, I'm filling my days with meaningless activities like watching tv, playing online, or napping. Yesterday and today I did get a change. Summer and the girls came over for lunch and to visit for a little bit today. It was really nice to have company. Crysty came over last night and hung out. Those two better watch it or they're going to spoil me & I won't know what to do with the days I'm alone! Jk. It was nice to have both of them stop by for a visit.

Besides that, I have no new news. I'm sure my blog will be pretty silent until the little one arrives...probably even a little after. It is funny, though. You would think with all of this time on my hands I would have a ton of deep thoughts to contribute into blogworld. Huh. Well, maybe I'm just not as deep of a person as I thought. Who knows.

Aaand...she's down...

My blood pressure was back up at my doctor's appointment yesterday. The doctor sent me over to labor and delivery to have some blood tests done & to be monitored. My tests results came back fine and my blood pressure went down while I was there. If the test results had come back abnormally or if my blood pressure had not gone down, they were planning to keep me. I would either have a baby today or they would be running further tests & giving me different treatments. Thank goodness it went down! So, instead of being in the hospital I am at home on bedrest. As my mom said yesterday, I'm down for the count. If my blood pressure does not cooperate with me being on bedrest, they will induce pretty soon. If it does cooperate, they will probably induce in a couple of weeks. Instead of having 4 weeks left, it looks like I may only have 2!

Yesterday evening I was really upset about all of this. It is not at all how I wanted it to go, but who really wants to be put on bedrest?! There are several things I still have to do, but Ryan has kindly agreed to do them for me. I hate that he's having to pull all this weight by himself.

Anyway, there's the update from my last appointment. Hope you all are doing well!!!

Happy Anniversary, Baby!!!

Today is Ryan and my 5th anniversary!!!! I can't believe it has already been 5 years. Time has flown. It has been the best 5 years of my life. Even in the hard times when he was thousands of miles away, I knew it was temporary & he would be coming home. To see his love of country and love for me is amazing. He is such an amazing man. I could go on and on how great of a husband he is, but I would never be able to do him justice. So, I'll ask you to trust me. He's the best husband on the planet! I thank God that he chose me to be his wife & the mother of his child.

Over the course of our relationship I have seen God's hand. Of course His hand was obvious at our wedding. There is no way our wedding could have come off how it did without God's hand in it. After Ryan returned from Bahrain, we moved to Texas. That wasn't our 1st choice in places to move, but we went. We had faith that it was a door being opened for a reason. Looking back, it has God's fingerprints all over it. We have grown so much as a couple since we have been here. Sure, it's been hard being away from family, but it made us look to each other instead of other people. That was probably more how I grew than Ryan. It has made me turn to Ryan with our struggles (financially, or however) instead of turning to my parents. No offense to my parents! Ryan and I still turn to them for advice if we are stuck and don't know what to do. But now I turn to Ryan first.

The two times that Ryan was overseas I saw God more clearly than I ever have...especially this last time. I have never seen Him with such clear eyes before. He truly lifted me when I was down. He kept me strong in a city with no blood family. He gave me awesome Christian friends to be my family. And, he made Ryan and my relationship stronger through the struggles.

But most recently a friend showed me how God has worked. It is a small yet big way that I had not seen. One of our cars broke down several weeks ago. The transmission needs to be replaced! Ouch! That hurts the pocketbook! But, by the end of the same day that the car broke down, we found the money to pay for the transmission. We knew it would take a few weeks before we could start the process of getting it fixed, but at least we would be able to fix it. We fully believe that God provided that money. More than providing the money, He has made it to where Ryan has been in town when he was scheduled to be out of town. Over 10 weeks beginning at the end of August-beginning of October, Ryan was scheduled to be out of town 7 weeks. We were NOT looking forward to that! Now that we only have one car & the doctor doesn't want me out and about much Ryan has had to stay home. We've enjoyed the time together--the car rides to work and home. It has been nice. I was worried that we wouldn't get much time together as a couple before the little bambino arrives, but God has provided that time for us. AND...Ryan was supposed to be out of town today on our 5th anniversary! He is working today, but he will be home tonight. Our last anniversary as only a couple and he will be home. THANK YOU!!! We have spent enough anniversaries, birthdays, etc. apart. I'm glad that He allowed us to have this one together.

"God, you have provided me with a man who I can be so proud to call my husband, a man that my daughter can be proud to call him dad. Thank you. Thank you for being active in our marriage and in our lives. There are times that You could have left us alone & not made us stronger but You chose to strengthen us--whether by struggles or high times. You have never left our side. Thank you for being an active God who is willing to be in our lives...not just when we call but all the time. You are there even when we don't think to call out for you. You have made our marriage so much more than I could have ever asked or imagined. You have given me a partner in life who is more than I ever dreamed. May we always remember to look to you daily in our personal lives and together in our marriage. Through Christ we pray, Amen."

Baby, thank you for making the last 5 years the best of my life. I look forward to the rest of our lives together.

LOVE YOU!!!!

Today's doctor's appointment

Today's appointment didn't go so well. I've had a headache since Monday afternoon & I found out the possible reason today...high blood-pressure. It wasn't drastic, but for me it was high. The doctor has requested that I go back for a check-up on Friday. He has also told me to stay home from work for the rest of the week. So, it wasn't my most fun appointment, but I guess it could have gone worse. My blood-pressure did go down a little while I was there, so I didn't have to be monitored at the hospital. There were blessings in the day.

Please keep us in your prayers over the next few days. I have 4 1/2 weeks until my due date. I know she would most likely be ok if they needed to induce, but I really would like for her to wait until she is supposed to be here. Please pray for her safety as well as mine.

Love to you all.

Lazy day

I woke up this morning not feeling well AT ALL! I'm not really sure why. Yes, I know what hurts, but I have no idea why it is hurting. I feel like I've pulled a muscle at the top of my leg or something. And the little one has found a spot really close to it to punch! At times this morning, she has had me doubled over. I wasn't really in constant pain, it just didn't allow her to punch that spot. Anyway, those problems plus several fairly strong contractions has kept me on the couch today. I was up really early and dying to go to church, but my body said no today. So, I've played it smart and kept my behind on the couch. Maybe I did too much yesterday. Who knows.

I've been watching the Travel Channel all day. They have had pretty decent episodes on. Some of them are just interesting places, but most of them have been places I would love to go one day. While I was watching one of the shows, a commercial came on for Expedia. You can enter their contest to win a $50,000 dream vacation. I asked Ryan, "What in the world would you do on a vacation that costs $50,000?!" I have to say, my mind can't even completely wrap around that idea. I'm sure if I thought long and hard about it I could come up with something. But that is a TON of money to spend on a vacation!! Anyway, it was fun to try to figure out. It gave me something to do while I'm parked on the couch.

That's my Sunday. Not very exciting, but relaxing and...probably what the doctor would have rathered me do all weekend than what I did. Ah...one of these days I'll learn...

Sam...our current baby

Sam is obviously use to being our baby!!

I'm not really sure he's going to be ready...

to go from being the kid to being the dog!

The pictures were too cute to not post!

Wow!!

"Week 33: You have 43 days until Sunday, October 29, 2006."

That is what was emailed in a weekly email to me today! Wow!!!! I remember when it first started emailing me. It was 100 and something days! Time has really flown during this pregnancy. I can't believe it is almost here. I am totally excited and totally scared at the same time. I can't wait to hold her in my arms & see her beautiful face. I am also terrified of being responsible for another human being! The little person who sits on my shoulder ;-) is saying, "What in the world were you thinking?!" Then the person on the other shoulder says, "You'll love her & you'll pray for her daily. God will make her who He needs her to be." I have to tell you. That is comforting knowing that HE is in more control than I am. I admit, I've always been a control freak. But this is one control I will GLADLY give to Him! I will do my best & I will pray. But I am thankful that Ryan and I don't have to go this alone. How overwhelming it must be to those who don't have God in their life! I can't imagine...

43 days...I am ready.

Daycares...

Today Ryan and I went to see several daycares in the area today. I have come to the conclusion that I will not be satisfied with any! None of them are me. No matter how nice or how crummy, I will be leaving her with someone else. I haven't even met her yet & I already have problems with it. It is just hard to know that there will be days that she will see more of them than me. I would appreciate prayers from you during this process. I just pray that God will lead us to the right people for her--a place with Godly people & a place that we can afford.

Gma, Lesli, & Mom at baby shower 

Gma, Lesli, & Mom at baby shower 

Time in Paducah

We have had a great time in Paducah, but we head out in the morning. I am so thankful for every moment that we have had here. Friday night my family gave us a baby shower. The gifts were so cute! You can see pics of the shower on our website. It was so great to be able to spend time with the family that I don't normally get to see.

On Saturday morning we hung out with Mom & Dad. We did NOTHING! Mom and I hung out in the living room chatting & working on the website. The boys took an old couch of Nathan's off & went to Hanks. It was GREAT! That evening we headed over to Rita & Steve's. We spent the evening there visiting with them and Chris & Laura.

Sunday we headed to Lone Oak church, lunch with my family (relatives & church family), and back with his family for the rest of the day. It was a good day...minus the fact that my allergies were in full force!

Today Ryan spent the morning with his family while I chilled. They went to the parade (which is not on the "allowed" list from my doctor). I really wanted to be able to hang out with them this morning, but standing during a parade is not something that I am allowed to do. Anyway, Ryan had a great time. I got a chance to say good-bye to them a little later.

For the rest of the day we hung out with Mom, Dad, & Nathan. We napped, watched TV, sat out back talking & ate GREAT food!!

We really dread getting up in the morning and heading back to TX. We always hate leaving family. But, ya go where the money is, right?! Ha! That's where our jobs are, so that's where we call home.

I have tried my best this weekend to follow doctor's orders. I can't think of a time when I didn't. I have felt pretty good. The contractions are still coming, but they are FAR apart, so there are no worries. I'm hoping as long as I keep following my orders, all will be good.

For those that we were able to see, we love you & are so thankful for the time we had. For those we missed, we wish we could have seen you. For those in TX, we'll see you soon!

Love to everyone.

Nerve-wracking 48 hours

For the past 48 hours I have been having contractions. I woke up to them Sunday night. Although I didn’t realize what I was feeling were contractions, they were coming quickly. After they slowed, I was able to go back to sleep. Monday morning I called my doctor’s office. The nurse sent me to Labor and Delivery where I spent 4 hours while they monitored me.

My GREAT friend Crysty took me since Ryan was in Tyler, TX (2 hours away). As Ryan was heading back to DFW, Crysty sat with me and kept me company. She really made the time pass quickly. They let me go & told me that I could go back to work as long the contractions didn’t come quickly. Since I had two contractions at the hospital on the way to the car, I felt it was best to not go to work but to go home and rest. So, I spent the night resting on the couch. My contractions lessened to once an hour or so and have stayed that way or lessened even more at times.

I went to the doctor today. He gave me the “all clear”…well, sort of. I can continue working with no bedrest. Thank goodness! AND I can go to Paducah this weekend. He wasn’t jumping up and down for our trip, but said that he didn’t think strongly enough about it to tell me to stay here. So, I’m allowed to work. I am not allowed to exercise or do any activities beyond working. Basically I have to take it easy when I’m at home & keep my feet up. That I can do! That is so much better than full-time bed rest!

Since this has happened, I will be heading to the doctor once a week so they can keep a closer eye on me. He said that we will take it week-to-week. That is ok, too. I know that I have to watch what I do & really take care of myself for Sydney’s sake. And, I will do all in my power to keep her safe.

Please keep the two of us in your prayers. Pray that she will come once it is time & she is ready. Also pray for wisdom for me to know when to stop & not do anymore.

I hope this blog finds you all doing very well & having a great week!! J

Ryan's blog

Ryan finally had a moment to update his blog. Check it out! :-)

Paducah & Pics

In two more weeks we'll be headin' to Paducah!! I am very excited to see all of our family! We will only get the long weekend in, but anything is better than nothing!! I just hope that we will be able to spend some quality time with everyone while trying to balance our schedule. It is so hard to go in and come home feeling like you didn't really get to visit with everyone OR that some felt that they did not get enough time! We always try to do our best when we go in to make sure everyone has equal time, but sometimes equal time just isn't enough. BUT...as my momma always says, "Beggers can't be choosers." Since we're all ready for this time, I guess we can't complain about it being a short amount of time or that we aren't with everyone the whole time. We will just have to be thankful that we get any time at all!

I've added some recent pictures of me. I'm 30 weeks today! Time sure has flown! I hope you all enjoy the pics!

My growing belly...again 

My growing belly 

Me at 30 weeks...only 10 to go! 

News 'bout Nathan

Congratulations, Nathan!!!

I found out last night that Nathan got a job & is moving to Nashville. When?! Monday!!! He starts his new job in 3 days! How crazy is that?! That even beats our record for quick moves. I’m happy for him though. That’s pretty exciting to get a job that quickly & to be moving to Nashville--of all places! We would LOVE to move to there…hmm…If we could only move my job to Nashville & find Ryan a job…;-) Anyway, I’m happy he’ll still be close to home & will have a steady job.

Love ya, Bud!!

Another GREAT appointment & GREAT friends

OK, I promise not to update you on every appointment from here on out! That would get quite redundant! But, I'm pretty excited about this one. At my last appointment I had gained quite a bit! I think I even shocked the nurse a little bit. But at this appointment I only gained one pound. Whoohoo!! Now, for all those concerned I ate healthy & enough to feed 2 adults! So, please don't worry that I am dieting. I just watched the nutrition side of what I was eating...probably what I should have done 6 months ago!

The rest of the appointment went well, too. Sydney is growing right on track! All looks to be going exactly the way it should!

There's no real news besides Sydney. We ran errands & Ryan worked on school work last weekend. We did get to go to the Morris' house last night for dinner & to hang out with them, the Parkers, and the Kimberlins. I LOVE hanging out with all of them. We are so fortunate to have them as friends. It is rare that you have one couple that you can hang out with much less 3! I am also thankful that they will be present when Sydney is born! Since it will be very difficult for family to be here, they will be our family at that moment. Rarely can you get people that would even attempt to fill that void! Most would bail out and not be there when you need them, but not these friends! They are awesome! God has blessed us. We have prayed and prayed to be closer to family. Although those chances have not come through, He has provided godly people in our lives to be our family when blood relatives are far away. Don't get me wrong...I still desperately miss my family!!! But, our friends come in a close second!! Thank you!!! I love you all!

That last paragraph came from a conversation that I had with Summer, Crysty, and Trica yesterday. They asked if they could come to the hospital when I'm having Sydney. They asked if they could come! I thought I would have to ask if they would come! No, not because I thought less of them, but because I wanted to make sure they were there. I was so excited! I told Ryan on the way home and he said, "Did you think they wouldn't want to be there?!" Yeah, he knew their awesomeness much more than I did. So, that is why I am gushing & so thankful for them. They are the best friends a gal could ask for!

Hopefully clearer pic of Sydney 

Sydney's face 

Pic of our baby girl's face 

Sonogram Day

Today we went to get the 3-D sonogram done. She gave us quite a scare because she was spine up. No, that isn't scary for her health, but it was quite scary that we had paid this money & wouldn't really get any pictures from it. We got there & I had followed all the directions. My bladder was full & I had drunk OJ. After several minutes & seeing that Sydney was not in the mood to move around, the lady suggested that I drink some apple juice. When that didn't work, she suggested that instead of driving back to Ft. Worth from Dallas on another day that we go to Target & walk around. She also suggested that I get a snack to eat. So we did. We got back & nothing. She had not moved at all! The sonographer then suggested that I try emptying my bladder. I did that as well as some exercise moves that my nurse had told me when Sydney was pressing on my syatic nerve. It worked!! She moved and we got some pretty cool pictures. Thank goodness!

While all of this was going on, the sonographer made the comment that she was quite ornery! Imagine that...my daughter being ornery. Ahh...it has already begun! ;-) Hopefully this will be a temporary thing & she will come and be like Ryan...laid back & happy with the world. My mom always says that "you pay for your raisin'". After thinking about that comment, in a way it doesn't make sense. Anyway, mom is quite ready for Sydney to give back to me everything that I gave to her. I expect that I won't get much sympathy from her. Oh well. From what I've been told, I can't blame her.

All in all, it was a wonderful day! It took a while for Sydney to cooperate, but she finally did. That's all that matters, right?! Hope you all enjoy the pictures.

28 weeks!!

Wow!! I can't believe I am already 28 weeks! I have 12 weeks left!! It is just amazing me how fast the time is flying. When you think 9 months, it really sounds like a long time. And...during the first trimester--when I was completely exhausted--I felt like it was going to take forever. Now that I've gotten my energy back (for the most part), the time is going faster than I can keep up. It is quite easy to start getting overwhelmed...like, what am I going to do with her when I go back to work?! I haven't found anyone or any daycares yet. I really need to get on the ball with that. Anyway, it is very easy to begin getting worried & anxious. BUT then I put it out of my mind (when there's nothing I can do about it) and just enjoy this time.

At the beginning of my pregnancy I felt weird because so many women would tell me that it is the most magical, memorable, wonderful time. I didn't see it. Sure, I thought it was neat that I was pregnant, but I really hadn't connected with the thought I guess. Recently she has begun to really move! My belly at times looks like a rodent is loose & trying to get out! Ok...don't ever tell my daughter that I compared her to a rodent! It is neat. It is neat to feel her move and to begin to feel body parts press against my skin. Tonight Ryan even got to feel her little toosh or head. One or the other was definitely pushing against my belly. He thought I was nuts when I said it was one or the other until he felt it. I think that's one of the coolest things. When he feels her his face just lights up. There aren't really words to describe the face he makes, but it is the most wonderful thing I've seen. He's going to make an awesome dad! Sydney is lucky to have him!

So, we have 2 days until we go back to see the 3-D pictures of her. These pictures should show us a little better of what she looks like...not that it matters really. But I'm excited to get a peak at her. Watch this blog in 2 days to see pics of our girl!!! Can ya tell I'm a proud momma already?!

Update on our little one

I had a doctor's appointment today. They did a diabetes test on me. FUN!! It really wasn't as bad as everyone made it out to be. They said I would have to drink some nasty stuff, wait an hour and have my blood taken. I did have my blood taken, but the stuff I drank wasn't really that nasty. It compared to the fruit drinks that my mom use to get when I was little. Do you remember the drinks that came in a plasic container shaped like a barrel? That's what it tasted like. I described it to Ryan as a watered down Hawaiian Punch. Could have been better, but definitely not horrible. Anyway, I will find out the results in a few days but am fairly confident that all will go well. I did all of the rest of the normal stuff: weighing, blood pressure, seeing the baby's heart rate. It was 149, so completely normal. It is SO relieving to get a positive result. We have been blessed to have her be healthy. I just pray it stays this way. It is really hard when it is completely out of your control. Well, I guess some things are in my control...like how much weight I gain. Oops...this time was a little too much!! Oh well. I'll just watch it from now on. It's hard though when you have both sets of parents come in the same month. We ate out A LOT!! That was definitely my downfall!! But, no more fast food for me! I am horrible about dieting or exercising, so I don't want to put too much on. I will hate trying to get it off. From what I hear, it is not that easy to get off in the first place. Anyway, the doctor didn't say anything, but I definitely knew that I had gained more than I really needed to gain.

All in all it was a great appointment! We got a positive result on our little one! She is healthy and developing right on schedule!! That's my girl! I'll start going every 2 weeks now. I can't believe that time is already here. Time flies!

We go next Tuesday for the 3-D sonogram. I can't wait!!! It will be a lot of fun to see what she's starting to look like. Only 13 more weeks and I'll see her in person!! Wow! I remember when I was counting down when Ryan came home from Kuwait. By the time we got to 13 weeks the rest of the time flew by!

We have plane tickets and will be in Paducah for Labor Day weekend. I'm really looking forward to seeing our family. It looks like everyone will be in except for Jon. We'll miss not seeing him!! I'm thankful everyone else will be able to be in then though. I can't wait to see them!

In Dallas outside the Sixth Floor Museum. Thank goodness it wasn't that hot!! 

Me at 26 weeks. 14 weeks to go!! 

Got it!!

I just got my new laptop!!! It retails for $1600 and we got it for $390 on Ebay!!!! How fun?! I walked in the door this afternoon & could tell from Ryan's face that something was up. Then I saw that there were TWO laptops in the dining room (aka our computer desk)!!! I'm so excited. Just thought I would share the excitement!

Great weekend

Ryan’s parents have come and gone. It was a good visit. They got here on Friday afternoon & left this morning. We ate well, got GREAT shopping deals, went to the Sixth Floor Museum, and hopefully solved some of our heat issues in our apartment. It was a really good & busy time.

So, this afternoon I’m headed home to get a much needed nap!! I am totally & completely exhausted. I wouldn’t change a minute of their trip, but I do need my rest today. I’m very thankful that my ½ day at work falls on Mondays! Since being pregnant, they have come at the time that I have needed rest the most! And, Ryan is usually working so I don’t feel guilty about taking a nap instead of spending time with him. He never really cares, but I usually feel guilty.

My plan for the afternoon is to strip the sheets, pick up the house, and catch a nap. Sounds like the perfect afternoon…productive & peaceful!!! I can’t wait!!

Parents are coming!! :-)

Ryan’s parents are headed to Dallas as we speak! They’re stopping to spend the night tonight, but will be here early afternoon tomorrow! I can’t wait to see them. It has only been 3 months, but it feels like it has been so much longer! Anyway, they will be here for the weekend.

Ryan has been so awesome getting the apartment ready for their visit. I’ve been helping, but he has done the majority of the work! I love that I have a husband who will help out (without being asked!) when he knows I need help!! There are few men who are willing to not only pay attention and notice when help is needed, but to go on and help! I love him!! And…when he helps, he does not help in a way that I have to go back and redo what he did. In other words, he doesn’t just barely clean. Maybe it is the Navy I have to thank for that, but he really knows what needs to be done & just gets in there and does it. He’s awesome. Ok, I’ll quit.

So, the in-laws are coming & my home is almost clean! Yay!!

Email

I received this in an email this morning. I thought it was funny after my last post!

Expectant Mom Mantra
Repeat after me: I am not fat, I am growing a baby. After a lifetime of watching your weight, it can be unnerving (and sometimes depressing) to watch it go up, up, up. Whenever you feel bummed about your expanding girth (and your expanding bum), remind yourself that there's a beautiful reason your body is changing. To fuel that baby growth, you need to keep your growth going, too, so dieting's never an option when you're expecting. Instead, eat as healthy as you can (remember, you share every bite with your baby), and eat as much as you need to in order to gain at the right rate. (One more time, with feeling: I am not fat, I am growing a baby!)

Hope you all have a great weekend!!

Dreams and Fears

Ever since I can remember, I have been a dreamer. The big thinker, goal-oriented, gonna travel the world person…uh, no. That’s not me. The person who wakes up every morning and says, “I had the strangest dream!” Yeah, that one is me. Over the last few years, the dreams have been sparse. They come every now and then, but aren’t even close to the detail and weirdness that they use to be…until I got pregnant. They’re back!! The detail in the dreams is amazing! The colors and crispness is just like I’m watching a movie, except I’m in the movie.

Anyway, I had a dream last night that I was in a forest running from a wizard (no, I didn’t say all of the dreams made sense). The dream wasn’t scary. It was more like a game of hide ‘n seek. The funny thing was after I woke up (for the second time) to go to the restroom. When I went back to sleep, I had a dream that I was at my mom’s school with several other teachers. We were there for some sort of program that was getting ready to start (just for the teachers and families). While we were all sitting around talking, I told them about my crazy dreams. I even told them about the dream I had just had—the real dream! I told them all about the forest & the wizard. It is so strange that I incorporated one dream into the next.

I then woke up for another bathroom trot. When I went back to sleep that time, I was leaving my mom’s school & walking down the road to Jackson Purchase’s office. A friend of mine’s mom works there & I was going to say hello (although in real life the office is not just down the road!). When I got there, my friend was there waiting on her mom to go to lunch. So, I said hello. She didn’t even recognize me! I told her who I was and explained that I was pregnant & that’s why I look different. We stood and talked until her mom was available. When her mom came around the corner, my friend had to introduce me because she did not recognize me. (This family was my 2nd family growing up. I practically lived there at times!) Guess this dream is trying to tell me that I’m a little concerned about the weight I’ve gained!! And, I am a little. I’m not stressing about it or not eating. I’m eating…probably too much. But, it is hard to see the scale keep moving up. I’ve now gained 16 pounds & have 16 weeks to go. If I gain a pound a week like they want you to, I will put on 32 lbs by the time the baby comes!!! Yikes! Now, that’s the part that freaks me out. How in the world will I lose all the weight after the baby?! I HATE dieting & I HATE exercising!! Doesn’t look good…

Ok, now you’ve heard my weirdness by my dreams & my fears of weight gain with the pregnancy. Hope your dreams are more normal & your weight is not being affected by a baby…and if it is, I hope you’re better at handling it!!

Love you all!!

Update to website

Ryan has updated our website & added pics. Be sure to check it out!

Registering

Yesterday Ryan and I decided to hit one of the places we planned to register. Our plan is to register at Target, Babies r Us and maybe Wal-Mart. So, I offered for us to go to Target first since it would be one of the smaller ones. Now, normally we wouldn't register this early, but with Ryan's Navy schedule, parents coming to visit, and our trip to Paducah we only have 3 weekends until the end of September to register! I figured he would not want to spend one entire weekend registering (which he confirmed), so we decided to split them up & do one a weekend. We both had fun, but it was exhausting! Who knew?! Part of the problem was after we finished Target's registry Ryan suggested we go to Babies r Us. I was blown away that he was willing to do more & figured I should go ahead since he was in the mood to be doing this. We finished Babies r Us just 3 1/2 hours after we started Target. Not bad!! Although I figured it wold take much longer, we were still exhausted with the time it did take. Maybe we didn't wear the right shoes to be standing/walking, who knows the reason!! Anyway, we have the two out of the way & I'm thankful. Now when family comes to visit, we can actually take them and show them what we have registered for. Only a few more months and Sydney Kate will actually be using this stuff!!! Hard to believe!

Your Birthdate: March 31

You're a pretty traditional person. If it's lasted, it's probably good.You seek stability - both in your career and your romantic relationship.In return, you're very loyal and predictable. Which is usually a good thing.Without a partner, you feel lost. Being with someone is very important to you. Your strength: Your dependability Your weakness: You hate being alone Your power color: Midnight blue Your power symbol: Shell Your power month: April

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

Figures

Yesterday and today I have felt MISERABLE!!! Yesterday Ryan and I were suppose to go to Fort Worth to visit with some friends for dinner & go to the base for fireworks. Well...my body had other plans for me! My allergies were in full force. I was miserable the whole day. Then today I was on the verge of a migraine and a few other female/baby things going on. It has not been fun. The funny thing is that while my parents were here and we were just hanging out watching TV and movies I felt fine. When I had plans to go out of the house & needed to go to work, I felt miserable. Murphy's Law...I guess. Oh well. What can I do.

I did have a doctor's appointment today. Everything looks good, thank goodness!! It is always so reassuring to get a good report from the doc!

Hope everyone had a great 4th!!

Happenings...

I am so exited to have my parents here this weekend!! The anticipation has been building since April when I left. It is SO nice to have families that we both get along with. It is a HUGE blessing!! My mom had surgery almost a month ago & I am pregnant, so I don’t foresee long days of outings, but it will still be fun to just hang out with them. I have obviously really missed them.

The only thing that will be a downer is that my brother isn’t able to come with them this time (he has a good excuse). I’m not mad that he’s not coming. I’m just disappointed that I won’t be able to hang out with him. Sam will miss him, too. Hopefully we’ll be able to see him in September when we head to Paducah.

Speaking of our September trip to Paducah, it is getting very complicated to work out. Ryan will be in Korea with the Navy for part of August & we’re trying to plan the trip to Paducah right after he returns. But since he will not be going back to work, they may not let him have that much time off. We were really hoping to be able to be in Paducah together for about a week, but now it looks like it is just going to be part of a weekend and a few days the following week. It is definitely not ideal by any means! We’re trying to work it the best we can because I know if we wait until later, the risk is greater that the doctor will say I can’t go. AND…we have to figure out what to do with Sam since somebody (read: Nathan) moved from Abilene to KY! Oh well. I guess we couldn’t mooch off him forever! :-)

Now you have heard my excitements and dilemmas! That’s about all I have to tell. Life here has been a bit on the boring side besides our little one--that I have really felt kicking lately!! She has not been kicking to where Ryan can feel yet. I have felt it with my hand a couple of times, but of course she won’t do it again so that he can feel. We just may have a stubborn one on our hands. I can’t imagine where that would come from! ;-) It does tend to run in both sides of my family, so I guess she comes by it naturally. It will be neat to see if she keeps it up & if we’re reading her right or if she’ll have Ryan’s laidback personality. The anticipation is growing there, too!! I’m 22 weeks so only 18 to go!!

Ryan's blog

Ryan now has a blog!! Ryan's Blog I'm not sure how often he will be updating it since he is going to school & working! He barely has time to eat and sleep. But feel free to check it out sometime when you get a chance.

Love you, Baby!!

It's...

It's a girl!!!!

We found out today that we are having a girl!! We're so excited. Can you tell?! Now we just have to figure out her name. We have 4 more months, so I'm not really worried about it. I'm just thankful that we have a healthy baby girl on the way.

Thank you, Summer!!

Summer and I went to Babies 'R Us and Target this morning. She showed me things that I would need to register for when the time comes. I was SO relieved to have her go with me today. Ryan and I went to Babies 'R Us a few weeks ago, and frankly I was overwhelmed!! I had NO idea what the difference is in so many things. "Are they just brand differences, or are they really different?!" To have so many questions answered has me completely relieved about it all. That may sound strange, but it is completely unlike registering for a wedding!! You KNOW what you want and need there. Here, I had no idea. Obviously we will need bottles, but which?! Questions like that were keeping me quite anxious. So, to have most of those questions answered makes me feel so, so much better! THANK YOU, Summer!!!

3 days & hopefully we will know the sex of the baby!!! Yay! I just pray he/she cooperates this time! It will be fun to do either way.

While Summer and I were at Babies 'R Us, we ran into this lady that is 35 & having her 2nd child with her now boyfriend. Her 1st child is 15 years old. She was quite overwhelmed with knowing this child is coming & struck up a conversation with Summer and me. We all talked for about 10-15 minutes. It was quite evident in the conversation that she does not go to church. Does she believe in God? I don't know, but she was so lost. I don't mean that all people who don't go to church are lost and depressed. I know several that aren't. BUT this lady was. She was short of having a nervous breakdown or just flat crying. She never teared up, but she did spill her guts to two complete strangers. That just reminded Summer and me of how many babies come into this world in very stressful situations. It is sad really. It makes my heart break that she can't be excited about this miracle. I pray that God will heal her heart and work in her life. I'm sure He is already, but I just request a special prayer for this lady who really needs someone to lean on.

The big day...again

The 20th is yet again the big day!

Last Friday I had to go to the doctor for some problems I was having. They did an ultrasound, but couldn’t find the sex of the baby because the he/she was keeping it’s legs together & the umbilical cord was also in the way! So frustrating!! We were so excited to get to find out early and then couldn’t. Well…that definitely shows it’s a child of mine!!! J Oh well.

BUT I scheduled an ultrasound with a place that does them just for fun. It is basically to get the pictures & to find out the sex of the baby. Since Ryan’s boss originally gave him the day off to be with me & go to the doctor, I scheduled this appointment for the same day. Hopefully my child will be less stubborn than me, and we will find out that day. I’ll keep you posted!!

Playing

I've been playing and have a myspace account. If you would like to check it out, it's www.myspace.com/ryanandlesli. Enjoy!

Starting to look pregnant

Thank goodness I'm finally starting to look pregnant. For the past few months I have just looked like I ate too much. But now, I look like I'm pregnant. I really feel the pics make me look like I'm showing more than I am...maybe it is the dress or the camera. Ryan says it looks about the same, but it doesn't look like what I see in the mirror. Anyway, I'm very happy to be in this stage! I have felt fat up until now...not that I don't still have those days. But now I know that people look at me and realize that I am pregnant. I had a lady tell me today at church that I got pregnant overnight because I wasn't showing at all when she saw me last week. For the most part, that's true. I really have changed in the last week. What I wear also plays a part. In some clothes I'm still able to hide it a bit. In other clothes, like this dress, I'm not at all! There are occassions and moods for both. Some days I want to shout it to the world and really show and other days I just want to look as skinny as possible without showing. Moods...

I thought I would share the pics with you. We finally found a camera that we could upload to the computer...still haven't found the good one yet. Oh well. We will.

Hope you've all had a great weekend!

Me at the apartment. I feel like the picture makes me look like I'm showing more than I really am. Ryan says it doesn't. Who knows!  

Me at 19 weeks...starting to show!  

Me and Sam 

NOT a pic of our baby, but cute

This is NOT a picture of our baby, we won't see him/her for another 2 1/2 weeks. I was sent this link in an email this morning and just had to share it. It is at 18 weeks, where I am now. So cute!!! It makes me anticipate our next appointment so much more! I've said that we won't pay for the 3-D sonogram, but seeing how clear this is...it really makes me wish we would.

Hope you all have a GREAT Friday!!!

Pics

I have been asking Ryan to help me find the camera so that we can take a picture of my belly, but so far we haven't had any luck. I am really starting to show now. I'm not huge, but it's starting to look obvious that I'm pregnant & didn't just eat too much. My mom got me a scrapbook for my pregnancy, but so far I only have one picture to put in it!! You really can't make a scrapbook without pics! Hopefully soon I will be able to take some soon. I will post them when I do.

I was told when I got pregnant how much weight I should gain over the 9 months. It definitely isn't easy to watch that scale go higher and higher. So, I've decided not to watch the scale at all. I honestly have no idea where it is at the moment & would love to keep it that way. I'm staying in check by my doctor's visits, but I don't plan to watch it more than that. Looking in the mirror is definitely hard enough without watching those numbers climb! Since I haven't been watching the scale, my attitude has been much better about the weight gain. So, I must be doing something right. :-)

Those are my random thoughts for the evening. Sorry I don't have anything deeper to say. I can think of a few topic, but honestly don't want to think enough to put them down in writing. It's 8:42 PM and I'm heading to bed in 18 minutes!!!

Hope you all are having a great week!! (2 1/2 weeks until we find out the sex of the baby!!! whoohoo!!)

Love you all!

Busy end of the week

The beginning of the week went SLOW for me. I didn't feel well at all. Since I was home I felt like the the days were dragging on forever. Wednesday afternoon I headed back to work. Ever since I have been racing against the clock with not enough time. Isn't it funny how in just a day my perception of time changed!!

Anyway I promise to post again soon. Sorry for the delay. Hope you all are having a GREAT week & have a GREAT Memorial Day weekend!!

LOVE YA All!!

The big day...

June 20th is the day!! We will found out then if we are having a boy or a girl…well, as long as the baby cooperates! Ryan can’t wait to hear the words, “It’s a boy!” I just can’t wait to know. I know you all will laugh at me for this, but it is kind of like getting an awesome Christmas present. You know you’re getting something you’re going to like; you just aren’t sure exactly what it is. The anticipation…I love it! I think it is more fun watching Ryan. He REALLY wants the baby to be a boy. Not so much to do guy things with, but more because he’s terrified of raising a girl! It is so cute. I kind of like watching him squirm. I know that’s mean, but when you just don’t care, its fun to watch someone who does. Anyway, look for a post on June 20th!

Hope you all are doing well. Love to you all.

We're in!

We are finally in our new apartment!! :) It was a HUGE ordeal getting us moved in. We went last Thursday to sign the lease and get the keys. After doing so, we stopped by the apartment. To our surprise it did not look like the apartment that we saw when we put down the deposit. Needless to say, we were quite upset. After much encouragement from family and friends, we went the next morning to the office and told them of our frustrations. Luckily we did not have to put up much of a fight. They had another apartment that had been renovated & looked like what we preferred. So, now we are in and happy! I am so thankful this whole process is over.

Today is Mother's Day, so all you mammas out there, "Happy Mother's Day!!"

Baby talk

We have five weeks until we will hopefully find out if we’re having a boy or a girl, and I have to admit that I haven’t been this excited about anything in a long time!! I can’t wait! I honestly couldn’t care less which it is. I just want to know. We have some friends at our church that waited until she gave birth to find out. Now that’s some patience! The good Lord knows that I have not developed that kind of patience nor do I want to at this moment.

We’ve been trying to come up with baby names, but nothing has really struck us. We both find things we sort of like, but there has not been anything that we both really like. Hopefully once we find out what we’re having, we’ll be able to focus better and find the perfect name. We’ve both looked online and at books, but haven’t found the one that suits us…and hopefully the baby! J

It has taken me a while to get excited about the baby. I wasn’t upset by any means. I just haven’t been overly excited. Truthfully, it’s not really in my nature to be ecstatic about anything. I guess I’m my momma’s daughter that way. Now that we’re moving Friday, getting the car, washer & dryer, kitchen table, and new furniture I feel like it is all coming together. My other stressors are almost over and I can focus on this little one. I guess I’m back to “I can’t wait to find out!” Oh well, full circle with this blog.

On another note, a friend of mine emailed me today and said that her two sisters are having complications with their pregnancies. Their names are Bethany and Brooke. I would really appreciate your prayers on these two girls’ behalf. Bethany has two weeks until her due date. Brook has 7 ½ and has recently been put into the hospital for the remainder of her pregnancy. My heart goes out to these two girls & I know they would really be thankful for your talks to God for them.

Love you all & am so thankful that I can bring these requests to you!!

Looking ahead

This weekend looks to be exciting & an escape from packing! Whoohoo!! We’re getting the Morris kids at noon on Friday & keeping them at their house until Bret and Summer come home on Saturday. I am looking forward to the change of scenery (stacked boxes!). We always love being with their family & will really enjoy this time.

A week & a day!! By next Friday night we will be in our new apartment. I am SO excited! The last 2 times we’ve moved they have been quick. This time, we have taken what seems like forever!! Seeing an apartment full of boxes is tolerable for a while, but several weeks?! No, I can’t handle all of the clutter & chaos. I cannot wait until next week when the boxes are in & I can start unpacking and decorating. Hopefully by the end of this month it will be how I want it & all of this is behind us. I forget just how much I hate moving until I start boxing up again!! Hopefully this will be our last move for a few years.

The weather here has been gorgeous! We’ve had several days of rain, but for the most part it has been in the low to mid 80s. Ryan and I have tried to take advantage of it by walking in the afternoons. This area definitely is perfect for walking. The other day I REALLY wanted a hamburger. So we walked to a nearby restaurant. It was about 2 miles roundtrip. It made me feel better about the calories I was getting ready to eat! And…it was a delicious hamburger!

That’s about all I know for now. Hope you all are doing well!

Eyes Opened

Over the past few weeks, it has not taken much to make me cry: a card from the worship team given to me for Administrative Professionals Day, a song sung in church, or just looking at cards in Target. Anything can set me off…& it is annoying. Being a person who doesn’t really cry much, it is weird. Mostly because looking at random cards in Target wouldn’t make the normal person cry. I guess it just comes with the territory.

Being pregnant has opened a new world for me. It has given me a different perspective on others (i.e. others who cry easily). It has also opened my eyes to what others have gone through being pregnant. Others have made being pregnant look so easy & fun. Yes, it is an exciting time of wonder & anticipation, but fun? I’m not so sure about that. I’m not saying this to scare others! By no means has my pregnancy so far been hard or so bad that I didn’t want to be pregnant, but there were times that I wish people would have told me the truth instead of sugarcoating it so that I wouldn’t be afraid to have children. Then, maybe I wouldn’t have been so scared the first few months when things were changing!

I’ve talked to another person at our church that feels the same way. She also was shocked at the beginning by all of the “normal” things that we were never told about. Maybe you forget…hopefully you forget. I’m not saying things should change & I’m not upset with anyone for not telling me more. I’m just saying, my eyes have been opened…

Awesome friends!

I honestly have the best friends in the world! Tricia, Crysty, and Summer are coming over to my apartment tonight to help me pack!! They are also helping us move along with my dad and brother. I have NO idea what I would do without them. They come without being called. They are friends no matter what you are going through. I've never had friends like these & am overwhelmed by their love and selflessness. God has definitely been using them in a powerful way in my life. They don't realize their impact on me, which makes it even sweeter. They are so humble. Each girl is such a blessing to me.

So, "Thank you girls!" You have been such a huge influence in my life. You have been my strength, my joy, my comfort and safety. I have heard many times in life that friendships come and go. I pray that there is never a day that I wake up and say, "I really miss her. I wish we still kept in touch." Whether we span the US or the globe eventually, I pray that we will stay as much apart of each other's walk as we are today. Love you girls!

(And...if you could see me typing this, you would definitely know that I am pregnant...I'm crying! I don't cry at things like these. Motherhood...changing me already. LY!)

Sick

Well, I have definitely picked the wrong time to be sick!! I've been sick for the past two days. It started Sunday night late & is finally starting to get better. I have had a SPLITTING headache, chills, and sick at my stomach. NOT FUN! So, while I lay around wishing I was at work, I'm looking at all of the things that need to be done before we move in 2 weeks!! I had so many plans for Monday afternoon! I typically get off at noon on Mondays and I had planned to pack & sort things that I want to put in the yard sale.

Speaking of a yard sale, guess what it is supposed to do on Saturday...RAIN! That is the only day we have available for a yard sale. I have no idea what we're going to do if it rains because we have no desire to move all of the things we're planning on selling. So, I'm praying for rain on Friday and Sunday, but not Saturday!

I'm sure you've been thrilled to log on and read this blog of my vented frustrations! Sorry. Today, that's about all I've got. Hopefully I'm on the mend and can be back at work tomorrow. Ryan is planning on packing a little tonight. I am so thankful to have him as a husband!! He really helps out when needed. Love you, Baby!!

Hope you all are having a much better week than I am!! Love you all!

We heard it!

Yesterday was my 2nd doctor's appointment. I am now 12 weeks. At this appointment we were able to hear the baby's heartbeat. It was REALLY cool. The doctor said we would find out the sex of the baby in 8 more weeks! I can't wait.

Our moving plans are coming along well. We will move the 12th of May. I cannot wait to be in the new apartment and settled!! It will be another month before I am anywhere close to that, but I can't wait.

This weekend is Fort Worth's annual Arts & Music Festival. We always try to attend if we are in town. It is one of the coolest things in the DFW area. They block off Main Street for about 10 blocks & set up tents with vendors all down the middle of the road. Ryan is drilling this weekend, but we are hoping to get by there for a few hours at least!

That's about all I know for now. I hope you all are doing well!!

Wonderful Easter Weekend!!

Our weekend started out on a GREAT note. We found an apartment!!! I am so excited & relieved! It is a 2 br/1 bath apartment with a sunroom. The closets are HUGE & the rent is only $31 more than we pay now. Plus, the complex has 6 pools & a fitness center! It should only take me 25 minutes or so to get to work & there's no difference for Ryan. I am so, so happy to have this behind us. Wanna know the best part?! We have hook-ups for our washer & dryer!! Now I can do laundry without having to leave the apartment. Now to figure out how to get the washer and dryer to Texas...hmmm...not sure how that one's going to happen. Too bad we don't have the "beam me up Scotty" working yet! ;-) My dad is driving our car here, so he can't bring it. I'm not sure how we will get it here, but hopefully it will work out close to the time we move in so that we don't have to go to the laundry mat! Anyway, washer/dryer complications aside we are ready to move in!!

Saturday we went to the Dallas Arboretum with the Morris & Kimberlin families. It was a lot of fun. The Parkers were supposed to go with us, but Tricia decided to get food poisoning! Just kidding! Tricia we are glad you're feeling better & wish you all could have joined us! The day was BEAUTIFUL!!! It was the perfect day to be outdoors.

From the Arboretum we headed to run errands. After we were finished I talked Ryan into going to IKEA. I think we set a record for the fastest time in and out! We went in to look for a few specific things. When we were finished looking at them, we left. I contribute my pregnancy to that! I'm sure Ryan wishes it was always that way. Being tired all of the time, I had NO desire to walk the whole store & showroom! We did get some ideas for the new apartment.

Yesterday's worship was great. After church we went to Bret & Summer's for some delicious food!! Man can Summer cook!! It was delicious. After we ate, we all just sat around and talked. Then the girls got the idea to do this quarter test on me to see if I'm having a boy or girl. Summer has had it done on her & it has turned out the same every time by different people's hand. So, the result...a girl. We'll have to wait a few months to see if it is correct. I am very interested to see if this thing works. Don't worry...we'll let you know as soon as we find out.

I hope you all had a great Easter!! Enjoy the pics below.

the girls...Tricia we missed you!!! We'll have to get another pic with all four of us! 

Kimberlins--the greatest youth ministers in the world!! 

John & Crysty Kimberlin