We got our pictures done as a family and primarily to document Rachael at 1 month of life. You can check them out friends and family if you'd like to see our fun. Our friend, Susan, and new friend, Cher, did a fantastic job. We look forward to Rachael's 3, 6, 9 and 12 month pictures with an awesome full year documenting deal that the little photography studio does. If you'd like me to send you a link to the pictures then go ahead and email me and I'd be happy to send you the link. (Some of you already know where to go so you don' have to email me.) For the purpose of too much self-disclosure I chose not to post a link to the studio directly on this blog since the photography studio has it's location posted for business and I'd prefer not to be so easily narrowed in a search engine.
Hope all is going well with everyone.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Fire Retardant
Will it stand the test of fire?
I sat down at the computer tonight to play what felt like a few hundred games of solitaire while Rachael ate her second dinner. Solitaire helps to pass the time as the little one savors each drip. I often find myself at 4 or 5 in the morning stacking clubs and hearts, etc for a half hour feed. But tonight the question popped into my mind, "Is what I'm doing going to stand the test of fire?" The ultimate answer resulted in a closed solitaire window and some more exalting prayer and study work.
Matt and I had a conversation on the car ride home. A few months ago Matt and I decided to become more intentional about investing in friends' lives through our church. And since then we rejoice in having a few closer friends. No, they are not our projects. We just wanted them to be more of a part of our "outside of the church building" lives. We greatly value our friends and enjoy the last minute plans and freedoms of neighborhood walks and game nights with their families.
But tonight's car conversation revolved around growing with our friends. Our church has this dilemma of not being a relationally connected church with the "young adult" population. It's funny but there really are a few couples in our church between Matt and my ages and 50. So we had an idea and I'm really quite excited about it. We're hoping to have a weekly get-together with a few dear friends in order to share life together. We'd like to do dinner together and share a time of short devotion or Christian comedians or whatever other creative way of exhorting each other and encouraging each other's growth. Nothing too high maintenance or requiring of childcare - just an opportunity to love on each other. We're not sure how receptive others will be to the proposition. But really when it all came down to it, we'd be more than blessed to step up to foster deeper, Christ-centered friendships amongst the "young adults" of the church. So what better way than to open our home and encourage our friends to open their homes for a nomadic group of life-sharing friends.
We'll see how this all goes. But we'll never know if deeper friendships can be accomplished unless we try. But the ultimate point is not to merely share in friendship, but to spur each other on toward Christ. I really hope this can be accomplished through a casual weekly gathering. We'll see.
- May God get all the glory. -
I sat down at the computer tonight to play what felt like a few hundred games of solitaire while Rachael ate her second dinner. Solitaire helps to pass the time as the little one savors each drip. I often find myself at 4 or 5 in the morning stacking clubs and hearts, etc for a half hour feed. But tonight the question popped into my mind, "Is what I'm doing going to stand the test of fire?" The ultimate answer resulted in a closed solitaire window and some more exalting prayer and study work.
Matt and I had a conversation on the car ride home. A few months ago Matt and I decided to become more intentional about investing in friends' lives through our church. And since then we rejoice in having a few closer friends. No, they are not our projects. We just wanted them to be more of a part of our "outside of the church building" lives. We greatly value our friends and enjoy the last minute plans and freedoms of neighborhood walks and game nights with their families.
But tonight's car conversation revolved around growing with our friends. Our church has this dilemma of not being a relationally connected church with the "young adult" population. It's funny but there really are a few couples in our church between Matt and my ages and 50. So we had an idea and I'm really quite excited about it. We're hoping to have a weekly get-together with a few dear friends in order to share life together. We'd like to do dinner together and share a time of short devotion or Christian comedians or whatever other creative way of exhorting each other and encouraging each other's growth. Nothing too high maintenance or requiring of childcare - just an opportunity to love on each other. We're not sure how receptive others will be to the proposition. But really when it all came down to it, we'd be more than blessed to step up to foster deeper, Christ-centered friendships amongst the "young adults" of the church. So what better way than to open our home and encourage our friends to open their homes for a nomadic group of life-sharing friends.
We'll see how this all goes. But we'll never know if deeper friendships can be accomplished unless we try. But the ultimate point is not to merely share in friendship, but to spur each other on toward Christ. I really hope this can be accomplished through a casual weekly gathering. We'll see.
- May God get all the glory. -
Much
Yesterday at ten til 7pm our heat was turned on. And there was MUCH rejoicing.
And I report to you cyberworld that this morning I am sitting in a tshirt in the office.
Oh the marvels of heat.
As for the lowest temp reached in the house during the waiting process: 51 degrees.
As for the highest temp reached in the the house during the waiting process: 76 degrees (yay for space heaters).
So for those of you who were praying and ever so helpful in offering showers and sleeping space, we thank you all greatly for your love and hospitality. And to celebrate the slow return to normal last night, there was the most relaxing warm bath I can ever remember taking followed by a good, warm sleep in our familiar bed.
And there was MUCH rejoicing!
And I report to you cyberworld that this morning I am sitting in a tshirt in the office.
Oh the marvels of heat.
As for the lowest temp reached in the house during the waiting process: 51 degrees.
As for the highest temp reached in the the house during the waiting process: 76 degrees (yay for space heaters).
So for those of you who were praying and ever so helpful in offering showers and sleeping space, we thank you all greatly for your love and hospitality. And to celebrate the slow return to normal last night, there was the most relaxing warm bath I can ever remember taking followed by a good, warm sleep in our familiar bed.
And there was MUCH rejoicing!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Early
So one thing that I forgot to share in the small house fire incident is that after returning to the house around 8am, Rachael finally woke up - clueless of all that had happened. And she gave me the biggest, toothless smile I have ever seen. She's done some little smirks and half-smiles to other people and myself since then, but nothing yet as huge as her post-smoke smile.
As for the family, we have been staying at a church friend's house for the past three nights while our furnace flooring and all is fixed. Looks like we're going to be staying yet another night tonight but hopefully they'll be able to get the furnace back in tomorrow and we can get the heat back on. Due to God's grace, the weather this week hasn't been too bad which allows for Rachael and me to stay for a few hours each day with Dakota. So while Rachael is all bundled and napping in her carseat, I remain all layered and attempting to wash the smoke remnants out of our home. (Buy stocks in Febreeze, friends, before I return to the store.)
While life as a nomad leaves Matt and me a bit exhausted (no bed, no matter how nice, can ever compare to our routine mattress). Rachael, on the other hand, slept another 5 hour chunk last night - which she was due after having a few nights of 3-4 hour sleeps (a stuffy nose and new sleeping arrangements have affected her). Despite the continual mobility and packing of all our things each morning because we don't know if we'll return the next night, we are all working hard to remain in positive spirits and grateful.
By the way, when the furnace was removed, the workers and our church mechanical/janitorial guy (Mike) were both amazed. There lay a hole burnt straight through to the crawlspace about the size of a beach ball. Mike and the guys agreed that had the fire moved 4-5 more inches toward the carpet then "things would have gotten very bad... fast". Mike was also amazed to find God's grace in that what he thought to be the gas line pipe had some fire charring. I tell you all this not to create some drama, but to share with you the bold reminder that we were given: God was taking care of his kids on that Sunday morning. And we were surely blessed beyond measure and still remain so.
So from the polar winds of our hallway, I send you friends and family my love and wish you a good and blessed day serving our Lord. Let the exalting commence.
As for the family, we have been staying at a church friend's house for the past three nights while our furnace flooring and all is fixed. Looks like we're going to be staying yet another night tonight but hopefully they'll be able to get the furnace back in tomorrow and we can get the heat back on. Due to God's grace, the weather this week hasn't been too bad which allows for Rachael and me to stay for a few hours each day with Dakota. So while Rachael is all bundled and napping in her carseat, I remain all layered and attempting to wash the smoke remnants out of our home. (Buy stocks in Febreeze, friends, before I return to the store.)
While life as a nomad leaves Matt and me a bit exhausted (no bed, no matter how nice, can ever compare to our routine mattress). Rachael, on the other hand, slept another 5 hour chunk last night - which she was due after having a few nights of 3-4 hour sleeps (a stuffy nose and new sleeping arrangements have affected her). Despite the continual mobility and packing of all our things each morning because we don't know if we'll return the next night, we are all working hard to remain in positive spirits and grateful.
By the way, when the furnace was removed, the workers and our church mechanical/janitorial guy (Mike) were both amazed. There lay a hole burnt straight through to the crawlspace about the size of a beach ball. Mike and the guys agreed that had the fire moved 4-5 more inches toward the carpet then "things would have gotten very bad... fast". Mike was also amazed to find God's grace in that what he thought to be the gas line pipe had some fire charring. I tell you all this not to create some drama, but to share with you the bold reminder that we were given: God was taking care of his kids on that Sunday morning. And we were surely blessed beyond measure and still remain so.
So from the polar winds of our hallway, I send you friends and family my love and wish you a good and blessed day serving our Lord. Let the exalting commence.
Monday, February 09, 2009
'Now you have something to write about in your blog'
These words came from Matt's mouth yesterday morning after we were let back into our house around 8am. Let me take you back a few hours so you can understand why he said those words...
At 6:15am a strange alarm fuzzed it's way into Matt and my sleepiness. Matt got up to check it, I rolled over deciding that it was nothing. When Matt opened the door I changed my mind as I heard the fire alarm clearly for the first time. And then I heard Dakota's howling. Matt, being his brave self, went to investigate. I checked the baby.
Next thing I know Matt, being dragged by Dakota, announced as he came through some campfire-looking smoke, "Get up babe, we need to get out." I grabbed something I wasn't going to stand on the curb in the cold without(modesty runs deep friends), a sweatshirt, socks, boots, the baby and her hat. And I covered Rachael's head from the noise as I passed by the fire alarm and walked through the smoke that was beginning to "fill the house" from the furnace and water heater closet. Knowing the gas was still on as I walked by the smoke source was a bit nerve wracking, but my adrenalin was going.
After grabbing a coat, car keys (so baby could stay warm and we could have a getaway vehicle should we never return to the house), the car seat, and a few bottles on a flyby the kitchen table - we left via the garage. While I was bundling the baby for the cold, Matt was on the phone with the fire department. Four minutes after he hung up we were standing on the lawn outside of our house and the fire department arrived (talk about a quick response).
Turns out that after an hour or so later, a firefighter going into the crawlspace under our house, and a smoke sucking vacuum thing, we received the news. The source of the small, controlled fire in the back of our utilities closet was unknown. Apparently that little fire that originated behind the furnace had caught some of the sub flooring on fire for 5 feet under our house. The firefighter said we did a good job calling early and it was a good things because they were able to completely control the fire for the entire time and that the house was safe to return to. The gas, on the other hand, had been turned off to the house (a good thing so as not to produce an atomic bomb) and, therefore, we would have enough hot water for 2 quick showers and enough heat for potentially the afternoon. We suffered no real property damage (other than some charred floor boards) and the church has already arranged to have the guy who installed the furnace come inspect it. Sad thing? The furnace is only a 3 year old baby so we have no idea what could have gone wrong.
Sunday after church the heat had not survived long in our house - something about winter and leaving the windows open to ventilate smoke from the house at 6 in the morning led me to believe that the heat would not be staying long. Being as how we have a one month old baby, we sought warmth and fellowship at a nearby friend and church member's house after Matt was done preaching at the nursing home. Then last night we stayed at another friend's house - they were highly hospitable in clearing out their basement for the night so Rachael wouldn't bother anyone other than us with her morning/nighttime "feed me" announcements. I'm headed over to Ellen's for the day to keep warm and help out with a giant cooking day that Ellen has planned. And poor Dakota is spending the afternoon in her cage due to the circumstances. [That's why I'm here in the house petting and typing because I feel bad that she has had to be locked up so much. - and really I could tell that it means a lot to Matt.]
No smoke damage ensued despite the constant scent of campfire that lingers in our house and on our clothes. Matt joked yesterday morning as he sniffed his suit, "Smells like we picked up a bad habit." And once the heat is able to be turned back on, Matt and I will begin the laundering of all our clothes, febreezing of the furniture and vacuuming of the carpets in an attempt to return to normal.
Are we blessed? I cannot tell you how blessed we are. And even though this could be seen as an inconvenience to our regular schedule, seriously let's look at the big picture here with utter gratefulness and thanksgiving to God. That small fire could have become much worse and could have been much more devastating. Sweet Rachael slept through the whole affair - I don't even think she knows what happened. And we have wonderful friends and family who are helping us stay warm. And even thought Dakota has to stay in a cold house - she's a snow dog and is doing just fine.
So yes, Matt's wit is right...
At 6:15am a strange alarm fuzzed it's way into Matt and my sleepiness. Matt got up to check it, I rolled over deciding that it was nothing. When Matt opened the door I changed my mind as I heard the fire alarm clearly for the first time. And then I heard Dakota's howling. Matt, being his brave self, went to investigate. I checked the baby.
Next thing I know Matt, being dragged by Dakota, announced as he came through some campfire-looking smoke, "Get up babe, we need to get out." I grabbed something I wasn't going to stand on the curb in the cold without(modesty runs deep friends), a sweatshirt, socks, boots, the baby and her hat. And I covered Rachael's head from the noise as I passed by the fire alarm and walked through the smoke that was beginning to "fill the house" from the furnace and water heater closet. Knowing the gas was still on as I walked by the smoke source was a bit nerve wracking, but my adrenalin was going.
After grabbing a coat, car keys (so baby could stay warm and we could have a getaway vehicle should we never return to the house), the car seat, and a few bottles on a flyby the kitchen table - we left via the garage. While I was bundling the baby for the cold, Matt was on the phone with the fire department. Four minutes after he hung up we were standing on the lawn outside of our house and the fire department arrived (talk about a quick response).
Turns out that after an hour or so later, a firefighter going into the crawlspace under our house, and a smoke sucking vacuum thing, we received the news. The source of the small, controlled fire in the back of our utilities closet was unknown. Apparently that little fire that originated behind the furnace had caught some of the sub flooring on fire for 5 feet under our house. The firefighter said we did a good job calling early and it was a good things because they were able to completely control the fire for the entire time and that the house was safe to return to. The gas, on the other hand, had been turned off to the house (a good thing so as not to produce an atomic bomb) and, therefore, we would have enough hot water for 2 quick showers and enough heat for potentially the afternoon. We suffered no real property damage (other than some charred floor boards) and the church has already arranged to have the guy who installed the furnace come inspect it. Sad thing? The furnace is only a 3 year old baby so we have no idea what could have gone wrong.
Sunday after church the heat had not survived long in our house - something about winter and leaving the windows open to ventilate smoke from the house at 6 in the morning led me to believe that the heat would not be staying long. Being as how we have a one month old baby, we sought warmth and fellowship at a nearby friend and church member's house after Matt was done preaching at the nursing home. Then last night we stayed at another friend's house - they were highly hospitable in clearing out their basement for the night so Rachael wouldn't bother anyone other than us with her morning/nighttime "feed me" announcements. I'm headed over to Ellen's for the day to keep warm and help out with a giant cooking day that Ellen has planned. And poor Dakota is spending the afternoon in her cage due to the circumstances. [That's why I'm here in the house petting and typing because I feel bad that she has had to be locked up so much. - and really I could tell that it means a lot to Matt.]
No smoke damage ensued despite the constant scent of campfire that lingers in our house and on our clothes. Matt joked yesterday morning as he sniffed his suit, "Smells like we picked up a bad habit." And once the heat is able to be turned back on, Matt and I will begin the laundering of all our clothes, febreezing of the furniture and vacuuming of the carpets in an attempt to return to normal.
Are we blessed? I cannot tell you how blessed we are. And even though this could be seen as an inconvenience to our regular schedule, seriously let's look at the big picture here with utter gratefulness and thanksgiving to God. That small fire could have become much worse and could have been much more devastating. Sweet Rachael slept through the whole affair - I don't even think she knows what happened. And we have wonderful friends and family who are helping us stay warm. And even thought Dakota has to stay in a cold house - she's a snow dog and is doing just fine.
So yes, Matt's wit is right...
Now I have something to write about in my blog.
Okay, time for Rachael and I to load up and defrost our noses at Ellen's home.
Monday, February 02, 2009
Friendly CD
On the sidebar there's a few musical selections from an old friend, Phil Wing's newly released CD in an effort to raise funds for the Wing family's adoption of an Ethiopian child. I've posted this for two reasons: I am thrilled at the family's obedicence to Jesus in the adoption and my all-time favorite Phil Wing song "You Do Great Things" is on the CD. Listen if you'd like and you will hear what I remember to be the sound of Apex Community Church (which is now Apex - "a Network of House Churches"-). It's funny how a few songs bring back a flood of memories. Also, should you want more information on the adoption and the family you can go to http://wingadoption.blogspot.com/ and the CD can be bought at http://philwing.com/ - should you be more curious. Anyway... hope you enjoy the music.
A Month
It's hard to believe that she's a month old. First off, it's really hard to remember a time without her - she's become such a huge part of Matt and my life. But then there's also the feeling that a month old sounds so big - especally for our tiny little daughter. And it has been an absolute blessing watching her grow and change over the past month. So while the baby ticker may say Rachael's a month old, she's technically not a month old until February5. Despite it all, I wanted to share a few more pictures, escpecially with those who are too far away to get the live showing. And for those of you who are curious, yes it is still an adjustment to life having a baby (I think it will always be). And while we may be late almost all the time to everything EVER, things are beginning to get more predictable when it comes to Rachael's schedule and, therefre, normalcy has made its entrance.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Rock a Baby
She has found my weakness. Mama can't put down a sick baby.
That's right. Mama will rock a sick baby until she falls asleep - even at 4 in the morning.
Because that sick baby has a hard time falling asleep when it hurts her to suck on her pacifier due to thrush. Poor thing. The sure-all sleep inducer paci is no match for painful mouth sores.
God love the poor thing. To the doctor we go - a little later today of course.
'night all.
That's right. Mama will rock a sick baby until she falls asleep - even at 4 in the morning.
Because that sick baby has a hard time falling asleep when it hurts her to suck on her pacifier due to thrush. Poor thing. The sure-all sleep inducer paci is no match for painful mouth sores.
God love the poor thing. To the doctor we go - a little later today of course.
'night all.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Twenty-Four
Hours in a day.
Hours without good sleep - oh wait, what's sleep?
Yesterday I turned 24. Yes, world I'm one step closer to the grave.
Matt mentioned over a crableg dinner (heck yes), "For a few months you will be two years older than me." He let the silence of that statement fill the air. "Cradle robber."
That's right friends, I have robbed the cradle TWICE. And I'm not giving either back.
Yesterday was a fairly uneventful 'birthday' despite a wonderful evening out alone with my husband. But the day was filled with wonderful things. Matt and I enjoyed stealing his Dad away from work for a while. We found a pair of glasses that Matt and I both like to replace Matt's 6 year old pair. Due to circumstances I attempted breastfeeding in the car (awkward, but successful). We had Rachael's 2 week weight check (9 lbs, 3 ounces of sweetness). And then came a wonderful trip to Red Lobster while my mom and dad watched our little one. I enjoyed the uneventfulness, I'm not going to lie.
I guess birthdays get like that when you get older. It's not always going to be the five year old hype of balloons and party hats. Matt asked me what I wanted for my birthday after the poor thing couldn't find what he wanted to get me within the realms of a realistic budget. It's kinda sad but I couldn't come up with a single thing I wanted all day long. I'm not really sure why that is. But Matt's ideas of presents that he revealed to me that failed to work out sounded wonderful. And I honestly couldn't think of anything else that would be a fun birthday spoiler. I mean we could have gone for the practical of replacing my seriously dying hairdryer (for the whopping twice a year that I use it to keep from getting hypothermia on a "running late" day) or replacing my running shoes that I stretched out with my swollen prego feet. But there's something about replacing items that we would have otherwise replaced that makes it not really feel like a birthday present. Maybe it's just me. Maybe I'm just psycho.
Thanks for the "Happy Birthday" Jes and Aunt Yvonne. It was quite nice not to have to prompt you both or have a tag-on 'happy birthday' after someone close to you spilled the beans in a crowd of people.
Anyway, twenty-four doesn't feel any different than twenty-three did. But it does mean one thing, while having a baby and a husband and a wonderful home I am one step closer to being responsible enough to rent a car. Oh the pride!
Alrighty, it's 4:15a and Rachael has finally decided to stop screaming. Time for a few hours of sleep before the 6am feeding. That's right friends, Rachael is learning self-soothing and not getting what she wants after she's already gotten what she needs. And I am learning to finally cave into napping during the day - despite wanting Rachael to cave into napping at night. =)
G'morning/night everyone.
Hours without good sleep - oh wait, what's sleep?
Yesterday I turned 24. Yes, world I'm one step closer to the grave.
Matt mentioned over a crableg dinner (heck yes), "For a few months you will be two years older than me." He let the silence of that statement fill the air. "Cradle robber."
That's right friends, I have robbed the cradle TWICE. And I'm not giving either back.
Yesterday was a fairly uneventful 'birthday' despite a wonderful evening out alone with my husband. But the day was filled with wonderful things. Matt and I enjoyed stealing his Dad away from work for a while. We found a pair of glasses that Matt and I both like to replace Matt's 6 year old pair. Due to circumstances I attempted breastfeeding in the car (awkward, but successful). We had Rachael's 2 week weight check (9 lbs, 3 ounces of sweetness). And then came a wonderful trip to Red Lobster while my mom and dad watched our little one. I enjoyed the uneventfulness, I'm not going to lie.
I guess birthdays get like that when you get older. It's not always going to be the five year old hype of balloons and party hats. Matt asked me what I wanted for my birthday after the poor thing couldn't find what he wanted to get me within the realms of a realistic budget. It's kinda sad but I couldn't come up with a single thing I wanted all day long. I'm not really sure why that is. But Matt's ideas of presents that he revealed to me that failed to work out sounded wonderful. And I honestly couldn't think of anything else that would be a fun birthday spoiler. I mean we could have gone for the practical of replacing my seriously dying hairdryer (for the whopping twice a year that I use it to keep from getting hypothermia on a "running late" day) or replacing my running shoes that I stretched out with my swollen prego feet. But there's something about replacing items that we would have otherwise replaced that makes it not really feel like a birthday present. Maybe it's just me. Maybe I'm just psycho.
Thanks for the "Happy Birthday" Jes and Aunt Yvonne. It was quite nice not to have to prompt you both or have a tag-on 'happy birthday' after someone close to you spilled the beans in a crowd of people.
Anyway, twenty-four doesn't feel any different than twenty-three did. But it does mean one thing, while having a baby and a husband and a wonderful home I am one step closer to being responsible enough to rent a car. Oh the pride!
Alrighty, it's 4:15a and Rachael has finally decided to stop screaming. Time for a few hours of sleep before the 6am feeding. That's right friends, Rachael is learning self-soothing and not getting what she wants after she's already gotten what she needs. And I am learning to finally cave into napping during the day - despite wanting Rachael to cave into napping at night. =)
G'morning/night everyone.
Friday, January 16, 2009
What a Wonderful ...
Yesterday was great! Matt was off and we got to spend most of the day with my Aunt Yvonne and Mom. We enjoyed some unusual "usual routine" of showering, diapering, and other getting readying in the morning. I woke up with a headache that I chose to ignore for most of the day, but eventually got the best of me in late afternoon. Matt was his wonderful self, entertaining in my absences of feeding and pumping. We all enjoyed a trip to Walgreens to print off some pictures for my Grandma that Aunt Yvonne will get to take out to California when she boards her second plane trip on Sunday. Then we headed over to Babies R Us to grab a couple of helpfuls. Then Starbucks called the depths of my Aunt, which much to Matt and my enjoyment resulted in a couple of hot coffees, my cold banana chocolate milkshake thingy, and a happy ride home in a warm car. Dakota had some good bonding with Aunt Yvonne and then we parted our ways.
After my nap, the headache backed off just in time for dressing up and going out on the town. That's right friends, we're rebels. No, we didn't go clubbin' (surprised) but we did go out for a nice, NICE dinner at the Melting Pot with Ron, Ellen and John. We decided to dress up for the affair - afterall when you spend more than $100 in a night's meal it's cause for some more-formal wear. So with the joy of "fitting" into two non-pregnant shirts that I haven't worn in FOREVER, we prepped to leave. Matt put Rachael in a cream sleeper and the cream spring 6/9 month sized dress that Ellen and Ron got her. She looked adorable and I look forward to getting a copy of the pic of her and John (in sweater vest, dress shirt, slacks, and black dress shoes) that Ellen took at the dinner table. It was adorable, absolutely adorable, to see the two newborns all dolled up for the sheer enjoyment of their torturous parents.
Dinner was an amazing fondue pot experience that lasted a speedy 2.5 hours. It was so wonderful to just sit and chat with Ron and Ellen about life. I just love spending non-stressful, lookout for the kids time with them. They're such wonderful people. And non-distracted time is hard to come by with them so it was so wonderful. Rachael was a bit fussy, but she was bearable. John was knocked out the whole time. And the cheese ... and the steak... oh and the chocolate... heaven, friends..... whew!
And then the night ended in my all-time favorite way - just talking with Matt for a while in the dark in our bedroom. He's so nice to fall asleep with. And I just love it when he pours out his heart right before bed. And then Rachael slept for 6 hours again last night. So lovely, friends, so lovely.
"And I think to myself... what a wonderful day (and night)."
After my nap, the headache backed off just in time for dressing up and going out on the town. That's right friends, we're rebels. No, we didn't go clubbin' (surprised) but we did go out for a nice, NICE dinner at the Melting Pot with Ron, Ellen and John. We decided to dress up for the affair - afterall when you spend more than $100 in a night's meal it's cause for some more-formal wear. So with the joy of "fitting" into two non-pregnant shirts that I haven't worn in FOREVER, we prepped to leave. Matt put Rachael in a cream sleeper and the cream spring 6/9 month sized dress that Ellen and Ron got her. She looked adorable and I look forward to getting a copy of the pic of her and John (in sweater vest, dress shirt, slacks, and black dress shoes) that Ellen took at the dinner table. It was adorable, absolutely adorable, to see the two newborns all dolled up for the sheer enjoyment of their torturous parents.
Dinner was an amazing fondue pot experience that lasted a speedy 2.5 hours. It was so wonderful to just sit and chat with Ron and Ellen about life. I just love spending non-stressful, lookout for the kids time with them. They're such wonderful people. And non-distracted time is hard to come by with them so it was so wonderful. Rachael was a bit fussy, but she was bearable. John was knocked out the whole time. And the cheese ... and the steak... oh and the chocolate... heaven, friends..... whew!
And then the night ended in my all-time favorite way - just talking with Matt for a while in the dark in our bedroom. He's so nice to fall asleep with. And I just love it when he pours out his heart right before bed. And then Rachael slept for 6 hours again last night. So lovely, friends, so lovely.
"And I think to myself... what a wonderful day (and night)."
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Eleven to Five : Fifteen
That's right, we got a "full night's sleep" (according to pediatricians last night. Way to go Rachael! She was out cold with no grumblings that couldn't be curbed by self-soothing. And then to top it off she slept her usual 3 hours after a 5:15a feeding to allow a whoppin' 8.5 hours of rejuvenation for her Daddy and Mommy. Oh yes, world, we've got a good one and we're not trading!
And I also pumped a whoppin' 5.5 ounces of liquid gold last night. That's right, friends, I filled that little bottle and have six feedings stored in the fridge. Guess it's time to start asking Lydia how exactly I should freeze this stuff.
Awake times have increased, including morning and evening awake patterns for approximately an hour. Yay Rachael! And it's fun to watch her explore her world - studying faces and things.
Anyway, that's how things are going here. Just simple
and finding a good routine.
Alrighty, off to a little cleaning and breakfast for myself.
Looking forward to Jackie visiting for a while today and Aunt Yvonne visiting and Matt's day off tomorrow. Oh and then there's the Melting Pot outing with Ron and Ellen. (We will never eat so lavishly and expensively again!)
The church has also so graciously signed up to start bringing dinners by for Matt and I. Thanks again, Lydia (if you actually read this) for setting it all up with such joy and ease.
And I also pumped a whoppin' 5.5 ounces of liquid gold last night. That's right, friends, I filled that little bottle and have six feedings stored in the fridge. Guess it's time to start asking Lydia how exactly I should freeze this stuff.
Awake times have increased, including morning and evening awake patterns for approximately an hour. Yay Rachael! And it's fun to watch her explore her world - studying faces and things.
Anyway, that's how things are going here. Just simple
and finding a good routine.
Alrighty, off to a little cleaning and breakfast for myself.
Looking forward to Jackie visiting for a while today and Aunt Yvonne visiting and Matt's day off tomorrow. Oh and then there's the Melting Pot outing with Ron and Ellen. (We will never eat so lavishly and expensively again!)
The church has also so graciously signed up to start bringing dinners by for Matt and I. Thanks again, Lydia (if you actually read this) for setting it all up with such joy and ease.
Monday, January 12, 2009
It's All Yellow
Just wanted to post this picture of Rachael's first official outing to, sadly, the pediatrician's and then the Urgent Care lab for a Jaundice testing. She was less favorable of the heal stick at the urgent care than the pediatrician's visit in which she was stripped to a diaper and poked at. She did surprisingly well with the doctor's trip after Daddy held her in a bear-hug and read to her while we were waiting for the doc - she loves her Daddy so much (he has the great calming affect on her when he puts her on his chest). And for those who were counting along with us, Rachael broke her Jaundice count right on the verge of needing some home incubation. So despite the two heal sticks within the first 4 days of life, Rachael passed one of the most important tests thus far. And we all hope for her sake that her next outings will be much less traumatic.
Morning Sunshine
Waking up content is a beautiful thing. And the value of the state of awake without direct correlation to a demand feeding is also wonderful. Many wonder how kind Rachael is to Matt and me regarding sleep. Giving you the average amount of sleep for a newborn to grace their parents with I do believe will help Rachael's cause. A newborn sleeps an average of 2 hours at a time. Rachael has slept between 3-3.5 consistently (barring no extra gaseous problems) since birth. But last night after a midnight bought with "working out her diaper" she slept for 4.5 hours. To the single and married without children world, this amount of sleep may seem to feel unGodly or aweful. But to one who has been getting up every 2-3 hours to pee for the past month and a half, I rejoice and thank God for the opportunity to "oversleep." And then to top it off we had some good awake and feeding time this morning.
It's as if she woke up today and said, "I'm one week old today so that means it's time to hit some milestones in survival."
Gratefulness cannot be expressed enough.
=)
Thursday, January 08, 2009
All Home
Thank you, Lord, for bring us all home safely. Thank you for helping Rachael to make progress toward passing her jaundice. Lord, I pray that our efforts to get things cleared through her body will bring back reward at her visit today. Lord, I thank you for educated and dedicated medical staff who helped bring Rachael into this world. Lord, I thank you for your provision during the pushing stage of labor. Lord, I thank you for the amazing family and friends who so graciously offered their words of love and support. Lord, I thank you for the friends and family who eagerly looked past my exhaustion and said such kind words of encouragement and joy at the hospital bed. Lord, I thank you for the miracle of life and the reminder that you are in control.
And Lord I thank you for bringing Matt, Rachael and I home - how desperately we wanted to be at home- and I thank you that you made it all work out that both Rachael and I were released despite some medical concern for the both of us I (my blood levels and Rachael's jaundice count0. And Lord I thank you that you are healing us both with rest and recuperation. Thank you, Lord, for Dakota doing well with the adjustment and shift of attention.
Thank you, Lord, for Matt's love and compassion. I see You shining in him as he cradles Rachael and has such great patience with her learning. Lord, I thank you so much for Mom's willingness to come take care of me and support Matt and i as we learn to best take care of Rachael. Thank you, Lord, also for Daddy's humor and love that he has lavished on Matt and I through random house projects and delighting in Your work. And Lord, the list of thank you's could go on and on regarding the endless love and support and encouragement that our family has already received and will receive. Thank you, Lord for Matt and Rachael who sleep so soundly across the hall. Thank you, Lord. Thank You, Lord. Thank You.
In Jesus' name.
Amen.
-first night home-
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Sunday Night Contractions bring...
Monday morning baby.
Announcing ...
Announcing ...
Rachael Elizabeth
born Monday, January 5 at 3:33am.
She was 8 lbs and 14.9 oz. And 21.25 inches long.
She was 8 lbs and 14.9 oz. And 21.25 inches long.
She has big feet and a full head of brown hair that is very easily styled into a Mohawk.
I think she has her daddy's nose. Daddy says she has my beauty. And we're just happy as anything that she appears to have our easy-going-ness.
As of this post time she is officially over 24 hours old and going on 48 hours old. According to doctor's reports we all should be going home tomorrow "after breakfast."
As for the laboring, we went to hospital Sunday night at 6:30p after an hour of consistent 3-5 minute contractions, but very minimal pain. (I just wanted to see if we had advanced anywhere from the Monday 1 cm reading. The measure me at 1cm at the hospital and 80% effaced. After an hour of observation I measure at 1 cm and 80% effaced. But thanks to my high blood pressure spike they had to do some blood work on me before they could discharge me to go home. When the blood work came back 2 hours later they decided to check me before making the final decision of whether or not to admit me. I measured at 80% effaced, but a whoppin' 5 cm of dilation. That's right folks, I went from 1 cm to 5 cms (in what should have taken some 5-10 hours) in 2 hours. And yes, you all, I was definitely feeling the contractions at that point. I decided with little effort that I would like some kind of pain medication. They gave me Nubian (or however you spell it) to "take the edge off the contractions). After dilating to 7cms in another 2 hours I happily received an epidural and advanced to 9cm in about an hour to an hour and a half. After that I sat at 9cm for about an hour and then hit 10, was pushing, and had Rachael out in 43 minutes. So total hospital birthing time was 9hours and 3 minutes (and if my math break-down doesn't add up then take into consideration that we really were in hospital active labor for 9 hours and 3 minutes via admittance records and I just felt a bit fuzzy after the Nubian).
There were some bleeding complications with me after Rachael was pronounced as doing great, cleaned up, and introduced to me while they did an hour and a half of stitching attempts. Then I was moved to the OR where I received another hour of stitching and a thoroughly big does of epidural medicine to coax me through it. I spent 6 hours in recover - wanting to see my daughter- while Matt witnessed Rachael's bath and caught a few hours of much-needed sleep. I caught a few hours of sleep, finally was cleared to go to my family, and then Matt and I had some baby time and sleep time.
I really can't describe to you the incredible joy I felt being rolled down the hallway to go see my daughter for the second time. I was bed-ridden for the rest of the day - primarily sleeping and attempting to recover. And then today at 11:30am I was cleared to pee on my own, remove the IV and shower to feel like a person again. Today has been such a wonderful day in comparison to the amount of pain and emotional stress of yesterday. But you know what? Rachael was totally worth it. TOTALLY!
Today we spent the whole day just hanging out with Rachael. And it felt like we were actually going to take her home tomorrow - and that she was ours. But there was still the newness of remembering her name during sparatic questions and all the newness of the beginning realization that we are now officially parents in a nine hour sweep of quick labor.
So thus ends the pregnancy story of Rachael.
And thus begins the greatest adventure of our lives - named Rachael Elizabeth.
I think she has her daddy's nose. Daddy says she has my beauty. And we're just happy as anything that she appears to have our easy-going-ness.
As of this post time she is officially over 24 hours old and going on 48 hours old. According to doctor's reports we all should be going home tomorrow "after breakfast."
As for the laboring, we went to hospital Sunday night at 6:30p after an hour of consistent 3-5 minute contractions, but very minimal pain. (I just wanted to see if we had advanced anywhere from the Monday 1 cm reading. The measure me at 1cm at the hospital and 80% effaced. After an hour of observation I measure at 1 cm and 80% effaced. But thanks to my high blood pressure spike they had to do some blood work on me before they could discharge me to go home. When the blood work came back 2 hours later they decided to check me before making the final decision of whether or not to admit me. I measured at 80% effaced, but a whoppin' 5 cm of dilation. That's right folks, I went from 1 cm to 5 cms (in what should have taken some 5-10 hours) in 2 hours. And yes, you all, I was definitely feeling the contractions at that point. I decided with little effort that I would like some kind of pain medication. They gave me Nubian (or however you spell it) to "take the edge off the contractions). After dilating to 7cms in another 2 hours I happily received an epidural and advanced to 9cm in about an hour to an hour and a half. After that I sat at 9cm for about an hour and then hit 10, was pushing, and had Rachael out in 43 minutes. So total hospital birthing time was 9hours and 3 minutes (and if my math break-down doesn't add up then take into consideration that we really were in hospital active labor for 9 hours and 3 minutes via admittance records and I just felt a bit fuzzy after the Nubian).
There were some bleeding complications with me after Rachael was pronounced as doing great, cleaned up, and introduced to me while they did an hour and a half of stitching attempts. Then I was moved to the OR where I received another hour of stitching and a thoroughly big does of epidural medicine to coax me through it. I spent 6 hours in recover - wanting to see my daughter- while Matt witnessed Rachael's bath and caught a few hours of much-needed sleep. I caught a few hours of sleep, finally was cleared to go to my family, and then Matt and I had some baby time and sleep time.
I really can't describe to you the incredible joy I felt being rolled down the hallway to go see my daughter for the second time. I was bed-ridden for the rest of the day - primarily sleeping and attempting to recover. And then today at 11:30am I was cleared to pee on my own, remove the IV and shower to feel like a person again. Today has been such a wonderful day in comparison to the amount of pain and emotional stress of yesterday. But you know what? Rachael was totally worth it. TOTALLY!
Today we spent the whole day just hanging out with Rachael. And it felt like we were actually going to take her home tomorrow - and that she was ours. But there was still the newness of remembering her name during sparatic questions and all the newness of the beginning realization that we are now officially parents in a nine hour sweep of quick labor.
So thus ends the pregnancy story of Rachael.
And thus begins the greatest adventure of our lives - named Rachael Elizabeth.
"hello world."
Saturday, January 03, 2009
Friday's Findings
Announcing for the first time ever the gender of our baby...
haha, fooled you. And you thought we'd actually find out.
Well, what we did find out was the following:
haha, fooled you. And you thought we'd actually find out.
Well, what we did find out was the following:
- Baby's squished in there nice and tight with minimal movement (and no showing of gender with continually squished up frog legs and fist blocking the tell-all - again modesty prevails).
- Baby's measuring at 8.5 lbs plus of minus 1 lb for error. AKA, our baby could be anywhere from 7.5-9.5lbs, but is currently averaging out at about 8.5lbs of educated guessing based upon leg, arm, stomach and head measurments. The ultrasound lady said baby's stomach is measuring a bit bigger than average babies during our current weekly status. - Whatever that means.-
- Baby's heartbeat is about 136-137 beats per minute (normal and healthy).
- My blood pressure is good (thus far).
- And any and all other results will be further discussed during our Tuesday Dr.'s appt (provided that I don't pop beforehand - which in that case the stats won't really matter).
Didn't actually see a doctor on Friday so I have no idea if I've advanced any in dilation or anything. But the ultrasound lady said baby's head's really far down there and repeated that a few times when trying to get a good picture. (In my mind the further the better. BRING IT ON!) So we just keep on trucking here on the homefront with packed bags by the door. I have started feeling much more sore than usual and a couple other more anatomical signs are popping up to notify me that soon baby will make it's debut.
I'll keep you all posted as further joys arise. Take care everyone!
Friday, January 02, 2009
the endless topic you're tired of reading about...
So I finally got around to packing a hospital bag. We were supposed to have one packed "just in case' at latest at 36 weeks. So here at 2 days shy of 39 weeks I can proudly say that my hospital bag is packed. Why is it packed? Well because today is Friday and on the very small chance that something were to happen today I don't want to show up at the hospital with only the shirt on my back. Baby's bag, on the other hand, has been packed for a few weeks - that's right... priorities.
It's still kind of weird to me to think that labor and delivery will happen quite soon (keep in mind that soon is a relative term at this point). Some of the foreign aspect of having this baby revolves around the fact that i have yet to really understand what a contraction feels like. According to others, this is a common reality. Renee and Ellen both stated, among others, that they were unaware that they were contracting until being linked to hospital monitors. It does bring to mind one question though... How will I know it's time to go to the hospital if I'm not sure what a contraction feels like? - Oh, you'll know. I've been told. Okay then! "Are you contracting yet?" Matt has frequently asked me over the past few days. "Nope," I tell him, but I'm not sure if I'm right or not. I just wouldn't classify the weird tightness in my stomach and random crampings as contractions. But again, it's the blind leading the blind. I guess I could tell him more fully that I am or am not contracting once we're holding the baby. ;-)
Almost all is in place for baby when baby comes home. We've moved the bassinet into our room (which is an odd sight during my nightly pee breaks). Odd how much that bassinet appeared to ft in the nursery, but still feels so out of place - and yet in place- at bedside. I just have to redress the guest bedroom bed and then we'll be all set for my mom to come and baby to come home. All other little details like getting a baby bathtub and changing pad we can work through later. =) Yeah, yeah, yeah... we'll be just fine.
We realised yesterday, as we were hanging out at the in-law's house, that if I were to go into labor this weekend, Matt's family would need to come home early from their vacation (if they wanted) and could potentially miss the laboring part. This weekend's Michigan Family Christmas. which Matt and I will not be embarking upon due to overly obvious reasons. We hadn't given any thought to the whole 'his family not being here' aspect of the spontaneity of labor. But I am sure it will all work out according to God's plan. Which in other words means that I am sure of nothing in this plan, but that a baby will be born at some hour during some day or night. And yet knowing nothing can bring such peace and normalcy with the knowledge that God is in control of it all.
Anyway, I better get ready for today and head off to work. I've got a few things to pack into the car before I go to work, sheets to put on the bed, trash to get out, and breakfast to eat. I'll keep you posted on today's updates regarding the ultrasound and all. Have a great day, all!
It's still kind of weird to me to think that labor and delivery will happen quite soon (keep in mind that soon is a relative term at this point). Some of the foreign aspect of having this baby revolves around the fact that i have yet to really understand what a contraction feels like. According to others, this is a common reality. Renee and Ellen both stated, among others, that they were unaware that they were contracting until being linked to hospital monitors. It does bring to mind one question though... How will I know it's time to go to the hospital if I'm not sure what a contraction feels like? - Oh, you'll know. I've been told. Okay then! "Are you contracting yet?" Matt has frequently asked me over the past few days. "Nope," I tell him, but I'm not sure if I'm right or not. I just wouldn't classify the weird tightness in my stomach and random crampings as contractions. But again, it's the blind leading the blind. I guess I could tell him more fully that I am or am not contracting once we're holding the baby. ;-)
Almost all is in place for baby when baby comes home. We've moved the bassinet into our room (which is an odd sight during my nightly pee breaks). Odd how much that bassinet appeared to ft in the nursery, but still feels so out of place - and yet in place- at bedside. I just have to redress the guest bedroom bed and then we'll be all set for my mom to come and baby to come home. All other little details like getting a baby bathtub and changing pad we can work through later. =) Yeah, yeah, yeah... we'll be just fine.
We realised yesterday, as we were hanging out at the in-law's house, that if I were to go into labor this weekend, Matt's family would need to come home early from their vacation (if they wanted) and could potentially miss the laboring part. This weekend's Michigan Family Christmas. which Matt and I will not be embarking upon due to overly obvious reasons. We hadn't given any thought to the whole 'his family not being here' aspect of the spontaneity of labor. But I am sure it will all work out according to God's plan. Which in other words means that I am sure of nothing in this plan, but that a baby will be born at some hour during some day or night. And yet knowing nothing can bring such peace and normalcy with the knowledge that God is in control of it all.
Anyway, I better get ready for today and head off to work. I've got a few things to pack into the car before I go to work, sheets to put on the bed, trash to get out, and breakfast to eat. I'll keep you posted on today's updates regarding the ultrasound and all. Have a great day, all!
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
The Beginning
Last night's doctor's visit provided the following information:
- I'm 1cm dilated (will need to get to 3-4cm before hospital admittance) - hey, progress is progress.
- Doctor was concerned about my high blood pressure, which ironically went down during the visit (maybe sheer relief that the check was over), but asked me to come in on Friday to recheck before the weekend.
- Doctor is concerned that baby is "a big baby" and has scheduled an ultrasound for Friday at 2:30p to verify size and birth-ability. - which means we'll get to find out for 'certain' baby's gender among other statistics about baby. And my biggo stomach is "all baby" according to the doctor which is crazy to think when you see my stomach.
- There's a chance that pending upon blood pressure counts and "big baby" status we'll be having baby this weekend - after being admitted into the hospital upon the ultrasound. - But again, they may let me keep going if all is "normal for delivery."
And then again there's always the chance of having baby prior to Friday depending on how quickly I advance in dilation. So in other words, all this to say... the end is quite near. And we're all excited here. =)
Monday, December 29, 2008
What We've Weathered.
I got up this morning with intention of checking the weather report prior to popping into the shower. Our room felt a bit warm and I wanted to know if it was weather related or inferno within me related. Sat down at the computer, as usual, but this time the familiar pictures captured my 6am mind. I watched the honeymoon pictures interlocked with seasonal pictures, wedding pictures, California pictures, Cheddar pictures, and so many more memories. And a flood of joy filled me.
A few weeks ago Matt and I were out on a semi-routine walk. I was feeling whale-like and inactive, Matt finding joy in the joy I received from the walk (AKA he did not want to go, but went because it made me happy and therefore was happy because I was happy). We walked along sharing the day with each other and enjoying the random silences that we also shared with each other. Then Matt piped in, "So I've been thinking and I'd like for us to plan to go out to California. I want to meet your grandma and see the beach, and the church, and the places I've seen in the photos." Could he have said 'I love you' any stronger? His heart just poured out in a few thoughtful sentences. And I must confess, that really meant the world to me that he wanted to meet my family more. "We'll have to check where we are financially," he went on "but I'm thinking if we plan far enough out then we could bring the baby to go meet your Grandma."
Those words flew through my thoughts as I watched how far God has taken us. I was reminded of being nearly engaged to Matt during the last California trip. And the joy on our faces during the outside pictures after our 'I do's. We had no idea what we were getting into, and we still don't, but I've never been more sure of forever in my best friend's arms.
I can easily fall into a pattern of complaining and focusing on how much plans are not what I had imagined since I was a child regarding being a stay-at-home-mom instantly and all the other naive imaginings that will drift away as reality is born. And it's in those complaining and incontent times that I really need someone to holler, "Are you serious?! Look what you have!!!"
Selfishness is such an easy trend. "I want it all, I want it all, I want it all and I want it now," familiar commercial jingles about electronics and food come to mind. But God just caught me this morning before starting the normal routine of, "so this is life," and reminded me of the blessing.
I have never felt such joy in life as I feel today. Each day that passes is a new day to be married to my best friend. And I can honestly say that I love him more today than on our wedding day. I mean seriously, who else is going to be there to sing Celine Dion songs in the car like Jr. High protegees at the top of our lungs because we are both comfortable enough with each other that we can be silly in front of each other? Who else can help set me straight when I'm way out in left field? Who else pursues me because he wants to know me more? Who else is there to make royal mistakes with, cry with and then later laugh about the mistakes with? No, my sweet friends, Matt is not perfect - and neither am I. But I really can't put into words the absolute joy of being married to your best friend - morning breath and all. I am overjoyed with all that God has brought us - even the trials - and can't wait for the joys that God will bestow upon us in the future.
A co-worker asked me last week if Matt was my first love. "You know, I guess he is because he really defines love in the most real way I have ever experienced. I honestly can't say I experienced the depth of a true love prior to him." And the only way he can do so much and be so much to me is because of how hard he tries to be like Jesus. Because I know that Matt does not complete me, he's no where even close. But Jesus completes me and it's Christ in him that floors me as well. Matt compliments me far greater than anyone will even compliment me - after all one we have become and no man can separate that. Oh but you should see that man on fire for Jesus. Who could not want to be married to him?
-No wonder I'm head over heels for him. - 
A few weeks ago Matt and I were out on a semi-routine walk. I was feeling whale-like and inactive, Matt finding joy in the joy I received from the walk (AKA he did not want to go, but went because it made me happy and therefore was happy because I was happy). We walked along sharing the day with each other and enjoying the random silences that we also shared with each other. Then Matt piped in, "So I've been thinking and I'd like for us to plan to go out to California. I want to meet your grandma and see the beach, and the church, and the places I've seen in the photos." Could he have said 'I love you' any stronger? His heart just poured out in a few thoughtful sentences. And I must confess, that really meant the world to me that he wanted to meet my family more. "We'll have to check where we are financially," he went on "but I'm thinking if we plan far enough out then we could bring the baby to go meet your Grandma."
Those words flew through my thoughts as I watched how far God has taken us. I was reminded of being nearly engaged to Matt during the last California trip. And the joy on our faces during the outside pictures after our 'I do's. We had no idea what we were getting into, and we still don't, but I've never been more sure of forever in my best friend's arms.
I can easily fall into a pattern of complaining and focusing on how much plans are not what I had imagined since I was a child regarding being a stay-at-home-mom instantly and all the other naive imaginings that will drift away as reality is born. And it's in those complaining and incontent times that I really need someone to holler, "Are you serious?! Look what you have!!!"
Selfishness is such an easy trend. "I want it all, I want it all, I want it all and I want it now," familiar commercial jingles about electronics and food come to mind. But God just caught me this morning before starting the normal routine of, "so this is life," and reminded me of the blessing.
I have never felt such joy in life as I feel today. Each day that passes is a new day to be married to my best friend. And I can honestly say that I love him more today than on our wedding day. I mean seriously, who else is going to be there to sing Celine Dion songs in the car like Jr. High protegees at the top of our lungs because we are both comfortable enough with each other that we can be silly in front of each other? Who else can help set me straight when I'm way out in left field? Who else pursues me because he wants to know me more? Who else is there to make royal mistakes with, cry with and then later laugh about the mistakes with? No, my sweet friends, Matt is not perfect - and neither am I. But I really can't put into words the absolute joy of being married to your best friend - morning breath and all. I am overjoyed with all that God has brought us - even the trials - and can't wait for the joys that God will bestow upon us in the future.
A co-worker asked me last week if Matt was my first love. "You know, I guess he is because he really defines love in the most real way I have ever experienced. I honestly can't say I experienced the depth of a true love prior to him." And the only way he can do so much and be so much to me is because of how hard he tries to be like Jesus. Because I know that Matt does not complete me, he's no where even close. But Jesus completes me and it's Christ in him that floors me as well. Matt compliments me far greater than anyone will even compliment me - after all one we have become and no man can separate that. Oh but you should see that man on fire for Jesus. Who could not want to be married to him?
-No wonder I'm head over heels for him. -
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Prepared
Silently we sat on the couch soaking in the Sunday football game when the familiar voice broke the silence, "Start having contractions. Let's get this baby."
- we're ready.-
- we're ready.-
Friday, December 26, 2008
16 Days in Counting
Welp friends. I have dropped. Not the ball. But the baby. Breathing a bit better today, which is nice because I haven't been able to experience the joys of dropping with this wonderful cold I've had for almost a week. The good thing is that the puking only lasted for one day (last Saturday), but I really have been missing my left nostril. It's nice that it's back for at least a visit today.
Christmas was wonderful. It was such a blessing to get to wake up at your own house and just stay there. That's right, my wonderful family came to us this year - in light of current circumstances. It was nice to get the early afternoon to just hang out with Mom and Dad. Jes and Nayt showed up around 3 and we ate at 4pm. Overall, it was a really relaxing day of no-shoes, dog petting and laughing. Such wonderful memories. "Everywhere you turn there's some kind of baby toy," mom commented as she happened upon the newest set of baby bathtub toys given us by a sweet lady at church. Tis true, friends, Matt and I are baby-ready. Matt said in the car on the way home from a quick visit to his family last night, "We're ready for the baby. Well, ready as not ready can be ready." He's got a point there. We're as ready as unready can be!
Got to hold John last night at the in-law's as I watched the family open the gifts from Matt and me. John was crying in Matt's arms. "John doesn't like me," he announced to the family. Matt handed him to me and he instantly calmed down. "That's not even fair!" said Matt. "He knows she's a mom," piped in Ellen to relieve Matt's conscience. I kinda felt bad. I didn't do anything he wasn't doing. John just got quiet for me. The poor little gass-y fellow was trying to "work it all out" last night. According to Ellen this is a daily occurrence for him. He and I enjoyed some good snuggle time on the couch. He's a good snuggler that sweet little one. It was nice to have a snuggle friend after a long, but good day. - Looking forward to meeting our little one. -
I'm just taking a quick break here at work so I better get back to things here. I get to make up my own hours for today as I finish paperwork. So far I'm one of one here at the building, but afterall it's 7:30am. I got here at 5:30am after waking up at 4:30am and feeling as rested as usual. I just headed on in with hopes of getting home around the time that Matt wakes up and just in time for lunch. With a quick after-lunch nap I'll be good for the rest of the day. I thought this sounded like a good alternative to taking a vacation day that I could have otherwise taken when our baby chooses to bless us with their in-arms presence.
Alrighty, so have a good morning friends and I'm back to the "grind" here at the dead, but productive office. - Oooo, signs of life are heard down the hallway. -
Christmas was wonderful. It was such a blessing to get to wake up at your own house and just stay there. That's right, my wonderful family came to us this year - in light of current circumstances. It was nice to get the early afternoon to just hang out with Mom and Dad. Jes and Nayt showed up around 3 and we ate at 4pm. Overall, it was a really relaxing day of no-shoes, dog petting and laughing. Such wonderful memories. "Everywhere you turn there's some kind of baby toy," mom commented as she happened upon the newest set of baby bathtub toys given us by a sweet lady at church. Tis true, friends, Matt and I are baby-ready. Matt said in the car on the way home from a quick visit to his family last night, "We're ready for the baby. Well, ready as not ready can be ready." He's got a point there. We're as ready as unready can be!
Got to hold John last night at the in-law's as I watched the family open the gifts from Matt and me. John was crying in Matt's arms. "John doesn't like me," he announced to the family. Matt handed him to me and he instantly calmed down. "That's not even fair!" said Matt. "He knows she's a mom," piped in Ellen to relieve Matt's conscience. I kinda felt bad. I didn't do anything he wasn't doing. John just got quiet for me. The poor little gass-y fellow was trying to "work it all out" last night. According to Ellen this is a daily occurrence for him. He and I enjoyed some good snuggle time on the couch. He's a good snuggler that sweet little one. It was nice to have a snuggle friend after a long, but good day. - Looking forward to meeting our little one. -
I'm just taking a quick break here at work so I better get back to things here. I get to make up my own hours for today as I finish paperwork. So far I'm one of one here at the building, but afterall it's 7:30am. I got here at 5:30am after waking up at 4:30am and feeling as rested as usual. I just headed on in with hopes of getting home around the time that Matt wakes up and just in time for lunch. With a quick after-lunch nap I'll be good for the rest of the day. I thought this sounded like a good alternative to taking a vacation day that I could have otherwise taken when our baby chooses to bless us with their in-arms presence.
Alrighty, so have a good morning friends and I'm back to the "grind" here at the dead, but productive office. - Oooo, signs of life are heard down the hallway. -
Monday, December 22, 2008
Carrying Forward to the Sides
You know, I just think it's a bit funny how angle is everything. For example, compare the 9 month picture to the Christmas ones. Those pictures were taken on the same day, but it looks like the nine months picture contains much more baby. Again, angle is everything. And no one can really describe what the angle's like looking downward at your own belly - especially as it forms differing shapes throughout the day. There's the hour-glass figure, the straight pointing out, the best described as looking like a "butt" figure, the lopping to one side figure, the rounded figure and then the side-to-side figure. And it's entertaining because sometimes I wonder if there are two in there by how much space appears to be occupied by two huge bumps. My brain gets baffled at what that second huge bump is when the doctors have declared the baby to be head-down for the past 3 weeks. Maybe it's knees all crushed in there. That could explain some painful ribbed experiences. But anyway, the shapes are fun. And despite the discomfort, I do have to say that the unpredictability of the belly angle is quite fun too. Today this shirt looks like it fits, but in 20 minutes it looks like I'm cramming myself into the very shirt I plan on dressing baby in upon delivery. - Anyway, just finding small joys in the midst of this otherwise trying last countdown.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
From the Three... er... Four of Us
A few Christmas shots ...
in front of our tree.
Dakota wanted some holiday cheer.
And let's not forget her favorite toy!
"Can you get her to sit in front of you?"
"Of course, but not facing the camera."
=)
A semi-Dakota -facing-the-camera pic.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Revolving
"Four weeks" to go friends. Today marks nine months. And n one week our little one could show up at any time and be considered full term. Kinda neat, huh?
Last night Matt and I played Mary and Joseph in the live nativity. Matt dressed in about everything he could find and freezing to death - me in two shirts and a couple pair of pants with no gloves and warm as usual. Sometimes the inferno within is beneficial.
Had lunch yesterday with a few old and one current co-worker. Kinda funny how that helps classify me as being old. The career-jobs are the ones where the co-workers do things outside of the office for the sake of having a social life. Outside of college social lives revolve around co-workers, churches and families. And to prove myself old I was the first to show up and the only one to show up unfashionably late. I was hungry. We don't mess around with the lunch times here. =)
Today marks another obedience training class - second to last - and soon the rush from service to dog social time will be complete. I think Matt and I both are ready for it to be done. Dakota's done well and we've been given tools that we can use. We've found some united lingo and learned some of the basics that we were messing up on. But really I think we've come to a point where we're not interested in having a dog-show trained dog and the classes are leaning a bit more toward refining skills that we find unnecessary for our daily lives with our doggie. We just wanted basic training and basic training helps. And those we have received. So now obedience training is becoming a bit more of an obligation than a help. But we only have two more weeks including today so we'll be good. Never thought 8 weeks could feel so long though. Matt and I look forward to the days of non-2pm commitments on Sundays.
"Are you ready for the baby to come?" I feel like everyone I pass is asking these days and I'm sure it won't stop until I pop. I'm not exactly sure what to respond. It depends on the person I guess. Afterall, who is defining "ready?" According to the baby magazines Matt and I read in the baby Dr. waiting room to kill the time my house is far from baby-proof and sterile enough. According to other generations we have WELL more than we could ever need. (I agree with them). And yet Matt and I still have a few more things we would like to get before baby comes - a few more spoilers. If baby came home tomorrow, we would have more than enough to survive for a couple of days. But as for the nursery, we would like to get the crib up at some point and some of the odds and ends put in appropriate places prior to the greatest distraction of our attention moving in. So technically we're good. Non-technically, we'll get there. And magazine technically, we'll never be there... EVER (and we don't want to be). My house will never be a Lysol wiped fortress. Instead, a family will live here. And coffee table corners will still sting and our baby will not grow up wrapped in bubble wrap. =)
Okay, off to church. have a great Sunday all!
Last night Matt and I played Mary and Joseph in the live nativity. Matt dressed in about everything he could find and freezing to death - me in two shirts and a couple pair of pants with no gloves and warm as usual. Sometimes the inferno within is beneficial.
Had lunch yesterday with a few old and one current co-worker. Kinda funny how that helps classify me as being old. The career-jobs are the ones where the co-workers do things outside of the office for the sake of having a social life. Outside of college social lives revolve around co-workers, churches and families. And to prove myself old I was the first to show up and the only one to show up unfashionably late. I was hungry. We don't mess around with the lunch times here. =)
Today marks another obedience training class - second to last - and soon the rush from service to dog social time will be complete. I think Matt and I both are ready for it to be done. Dakota's done well and we've been given tools that we can use. We've found some united lingo and learned some of the basics that we were messing up on. But really I think we've come to a point where we're not interested in having a dog-show trained dog and the classes are leaning a bit more toward refining skills that we find unnecessary for our daily lives with our doggie. We just wanted basic training and basic training helps. And those we have received. So now obedience training is becoming a bit more of an obligation than a help. But we only have two more weeks including today so we'll be good. Never thought 8 weeks could feel so long though. Matt and I look forward to the days of non-2pm commitments on Sundays.
"Are you ready for the baby to come?" I feel like everyone I pass is asking these days and I'm sure it won't stop until I pop. I'm not exactly sure what to respond. It depends on the person I guess. Afterall, who is defining "ready?" According to the baby magazines Matt and I read in the baby Dr. waiting room to kill the time my house is far from baby-proof and sterile enough. According to other generations we have WELL more than we could ever need. (I agree with them). And yet Matt and I still have a few more things we would like to get before baby comes - a few more spoilers. If baby came home tomorrow, we would have more than enough to survive for a couple of days. But as for the nursery, we would like to get the crib up at some point and some of the odds and ends put in appropriate places prior to the greatest distraction of our attention moving in. So technically we're good. Non-technically, we'll get there. And magazine technically, we'll never be there... EVER (and we don't want to be). My house will never be a Lysol wiped fortress. Instead, a family will live here. And coffee table corners will still sting and our baby will not grow up wrapped in bubble wrap. =)
Okay, off to church. have a great Sunday all!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Announcing John Alan and such
Yesterday at 3:45pm ish our nephew came into this side of the world. John Alan weighed in at 8 lbs 6 oz. and 20.5 inches long. He came out with the umbilical cord wrapped around his neck so he was blue and had some bruising on his face. But as time progressed his skin turned more and more pink and his heartbeat was strong. Ellen is also doing well. She obviously was exhausted, but really did a fantastic job keeping her cool through the almost 12 hours of labor.
As for us here on the home front, Matt and I are playing Mary and Joseph this weekend at the church's live nativity scene outside. And we'll probably end up going to help Rodger at his work Christmas party for all the foster care kids.
When asked last night by the newest Mother in our church how I was feeling, my honesty was revealed. It's a bit less comfortable now and I look forward to sleepless nights with baby on the outside as opposed to the current arrangement. Ellen and Ron kept making comments that "this will be you soon" while Matt and I were visiting prior to labor. Yes, I can agree with them. But no I don't really want to think about it. It's like that marathon run, you really don't want to think about how much it will hurt at the end, you just know you'll push through it as it comes. If I would have thought of that time at the end of the tri-athlon when I wanted to puke on the road during the start of the last mile while training I think my motivation would have been altered. So why dwell on the means of childbirth. For pregnancy is not had for merely the roller coaster of labor, but for the joy of holding the child at the finish line.
So yeah, just trying to keep my eyes on the prize with each leg cramp, back ache, nauseous moment, exhaustion, and much etc.
But you know... being able to address our baby as a Rachael or a David and knowing that Matt and I are Mommy and Daddy - the default- for that little one will totally be worth it all.
Matt and I decided that we're going to finish our prep for the baby at the start of the year. At this exact moment we have just about everything that we need to bring home baby so we're in the clear in case baby comes a bit early. But we figured after Christmas we'd evaluate what all we still wanted before baby comes.
Dakota appears to be adjusting well to the baby things as they slowly spread about the house. She's had some time to smell things and begin to be comfortable with new things. We have 2 last dog training sessions with her before we settle in for the dive into parenthood. Matt and I go to our last childbirth class on Tuesday and we get to have a tour of the delivery/nursery/mother unit of the hospital we're planning to deliver in. I'm looking forward to the tour - labeling me a dork.
Funny story, when walking through the emergency room after last week's childbirth class the receptionist in the ER asked with this huge smile on her face, "going to the fourth floor" (Labor and Delivery). "Huh? Oh no, the car," came my response. Matt and I laughed about it in the hallway after we got out of earshot. So apparently I'm looking a bit larger lately. Or as some may say.. "a bit ripe." I'll have to ask Jenney to take a picture this weekend so I can share with Renee and Aunt Yvonne what everyone else sees on a regular basis and says won't last til January 11.
Baby's doing well with a consistently strong heartbeat. Baby's also in the head-down position, which means more pressure on my bladder, but less surprise bladder assaults. So now when anyone pats my belly they're patting baby's feet and butt. And for all the medical people I am not effaced or dilated - which is a good thing for one who doesn't want to be in labor on Christmas. =)
In conclusion - all's as well as it can be in our home.
How about you?
As for us here on the home front, Matt and I are playing Mary and Joseph this weekend at the church's live nativity scene outside. And we'll probably end up going to help Rodger at his work Christmas party for all the foster care kids.
When asked last night by the newest Mother in our church how I was feeling, my honesty was revealed. It's a bit less comfortable now and I look forward to sleepless nights with baby on the outside as opposed to the current arrangement. Ellen and Ron kept making comments that "this will be you soon" while Matt and I were visiting prior to labor. Yes, I can agree with them. But no I don't really want to think about it. It's like that marathon run, you really don't want to think about how much it will hurt at the end, you just know you'll push through it as it comes. If I would have thought of that time at the end of the tri-athlon when I wanted to puke on the road during the start of the last mile while training I think my motivation would have been altered. So why dwell on the means of childbirth. For pregnancy is not had for merely the roller coaster of labor, but for the joy of holding the child at the finish line.
So yeah, just trying to keep my eyes on the prize with each leg cramp, back ache, nauseous moment, exhaustion, and much etc.
But you know... being able to address our baby as a Rachael or a David and knowing that Matt and I are Mommy and Daddy - the default- for that little one will totally be worth it all.
Matt and I decided that we're going to finish our prep for the baby at the start of the year. At this exact moment we have just about everything that we need to bring home baby so we're in the clear in case baby comes a bit early. But we figured after Christmas we'd evaluate what all we still wanted before baby comes.
Dakota appears to be adjusting well to the baby things as they slowly spread about the house. She's had some time to smell things and begin to be comfortable with new things. We have 2 last dog training sessions with her before we settle in for the dive into parenthood. Matt and I go to our last childbirth class on Tuesday and we get to have a tour of the delivery/nursery/mother unit of the hospital we're planning to deliver in. I'm looking forward to the tour - labeling me a dork.
Funny story, when walking through the emergency room after last week's childbirth class the receptionist in the ER asked with this huge smile on her face, "going to the fourth floor" (Labor and Delivery). "Huh? Oh no, the car," came my response. Matt and I laughed about it in the hallway after we got out of earshot. So apparently I'm looking a bit larger lately. Or as some may say.. "a bit ripe." I'll have to ask Jenney to take a picture this weekend so I can share with Renee and Aunt Yvonne what everyone else sees on a regular basis and says won't last til January 11.
Baby's doing well with a consistently strong heartbeat. Baby's also in the head-down position, which means more pressure on my bladder, but less surprise bladder assaults. So now when anyone pats my belly they're patting baby's feet and butt. And for all the medical people I am not effaced or dilated - which is a good thing for one who doesn't want to be in labor on Christmas. =)
In conclusion - all's as well as it can be in our home.
How about you?
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Forum of Uneventfuls
All of my dreams last night regarded labor. Guess my brain was working out childbirth class. We're now halfway through Childbirth classes. And my dreams revolved around non-gory thoughts like the beginning hours of mild contractions filled with character and laughs (or so it's said). And in my dreams Matt and I were unprepared, yet prepared and just waiting in eager anticipation. Last night on the way home from the class we discussed getting the car seat installed in the backseat of my car soon. Just in case... And it hit me that in a few short days I'll be down to a one-handed count of the weeks left before we are due. "Wow, once we get to five weeks that's going to fly. I mean 6 weeks feels long, but something about 5 feels quick." I commented to the Popsicle riding shotgun. "It's already quick," said the 6 week-out church planner, "especially when you think of all the stuff we have planned for the next weeks." "Yeah, after Christmas we'll be two weeks out," the words fell out but the reality of that experience still foreign to me. "And Ellen's due next week (Wednesday)," his words hit the still air.
Matt's headed to a Spartan (Michigan State) basketball game with his Dad tonight and he'll return tomorrow some time. I've got another late night to put in at work, but I don't really mind it because Matt's gonna be gone. It'll also feel good to be completely caught up with work. Hopefully I won't be there too late. But thank you cards await me tonight when I get home and I'm hoping those will be enough to keep me from going completely insane from the silence. I may need to get creative tonight. =)
For Jes, Matt's t-shirts no longer fit well at all. Most of the big shirts I find myself stuffing into with hopes that the tops of my pants that automatically roll down due to my low-rider baby will not be seen due to the centimeter's hang-over of shirt to the top of my pants. In fact most shirts I am fearful of stretching out due to the "eleven pound baby" that Matt finds to be a funny joke. "Or have it your way," he said last night after his umpteen joke about us having a huge baby, "seven pounds." It's sad to watch my pregnancy clothes that used to be "so big" slowly shrink to an un-fit-able shirt. And that "winter coat" raincoat that I got in it's oversized and only $6 glory from the thrift store now has a whoppin' 2 centimeters left in it before I pop out of that one too. Bummer, man. Bummer.
Yes, world, there is more to my life than pregnancy - for those of you who are getting tired of reading prego posts. But you must know that in the "real world" I don't talk too much about pregnancy and, therefore, you all get this wonderful forum of uneventful events. Oh lucky you!
Okay, off to work now.
Take care, all.
Matt's headed to a Spartan (Michigan State) basketball game with his Dad tonight and he'll return tomorrow some time. I've got another late night to put in at work, but I don't really mind it because Matt's gonna be gone. It'll also feel good to be completely caught up with work. Hopefully I won't be there too late. But thank you cards await me tonight when I get home and I'm hoping those will be enough to keep me from going completely insane from the silence. I may need to get creative tonight. =)
For Jes, Matt's t-shirts no longer fit well at all. Most of the big shirts I find myself stuffing into with hopes that the tops of my pants that automatically roll down due to my low-rider baby will not be seen due to the centimeter's hang-over of shirt to the top of my pants. In fact most shirts I am fearful of stretching out due to the "eleven pound baby" that Matt finds to be a funny joke. "Or have it your way," he said last night after his umpteen joke about us having a huge baby, "seven pounds." It's sad to watch my pregnancy clothes that used to be "so big" slowly shrink to an un-fit-able shirt. And that "winter coat" raincoat that I got in it's oversized and only $6 glory from the thrift store now has a whoppin' 2 centimeters left in it before I pop out of that one too. Bummer, man. Bummer.
Yes, world, there is more to my life than pregnancy - for those of you who are getting tired of reading prego posts. But you must know that in the "real world" I don't talk too much about pregnancy and, therefore, you all get this wonderful forum of uneventful events. Oh lucky you!
Okay, off to work now.
Take care, all.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Engulfed
Yesterday night I stood on the curb and watched a church woman's house burn. The flames engulfed the house, flaring out of control and destroying everything. Smoke could be smelled for miles as it poured from the house. And the sermon of gratitude from the morning took new shape as this woman stood in utter shock. I had nothing to offer this woman but prayer. She repeated for a while that the last thing she was doing in the house before going to the evening church service was cross-stitching Christmas presents for her grandchildren. "I don't even have my medicines or cold creme." Then she explained to the fire marshal, "It's like my brain's just gone. I'm not even making sense."
Thanksgiving is a season not of turkeys and cranberry sauce, but of gratitude for all that we have. There was a horrible loss of all possessions, "I only have the clothes on my back," the poor woman said regarding the next few days stay in a hotel. A friend quickly ran to her house to gather extra pajamas and Pastor reassured that anything she needs will be paid for by her church family. "I lived there for 30 years," came an unreal-to-me realization that past memories were gone. And nothing that could have been said on that curb would have changed the fact that everything was gone. Everything was gone.
So does this woman have nothing to be thankful for this Thanksgiving? Everything is gone. Value is held in all kinds of things and I have absolutely no idea what it would feel like to watch so many blessings that were given instantly taken away. Yes, this woman has friends and family to hold her through her loss (Thank you, God). But I really can't imagine what it would feel like to be put through such a test of gratitude.
It was amazing to witness the Body of Christ working last night, embracing a sister in the midst of tragedy. It was awesome to see the Body of Christ doing what the Body of Christ should... praying and standing beside this sister when all the neighbors had gone inside and the flames were but rubble. And as can be told through the rambling of thoughts and the smell of smoke in my hair, I am still at a loss for complete thoughts and well-poised words regarding the magnitude of thankfulness required even in utter tragedy. How can one produce such gratitude in the midst of loss? Only through the blood of Jesus.
So please take a second to say a prayer for this fellow sister in Christ as she comes out of her shock and lets go of what has been taken. Please pray that she is able to continue to be surrounded by those who love her as she takes healing steps. Please pray that she is able to embrace a greater gratitude for Jesus Christ despite the difficulty and how easy it is to doubt God in all this. Please pray. Prayer has an even greater impact than we will ever know.
thank you.
Thanksgiving is a season not of turkeys and cranberry sauce, but of gratitude for all that we have. There was a horrible loss of all possessions, "I only have the clothes on my back," the poor woman said regarding the next few days stay in a hotel. A friend quickly ran to her house to gather extra pajamas and Pastor reassured that anything she needs will be paid for by her church family. "I lived there for 30 years," came an unreal-to-me realization that past memories were gone. And nothing that could have been said on that curb would have changed the fact that everything was gone. Everything was gone.
So does this woman have nothing to be thankful for this Thanksgiving? Everything is gone. Value is held in all kinds of things and I have absolutely no idea what it would feel like to watch so many blessings that were given instantly taken away. Yes, this woman has friends and family to hold her through her loss (Thank you, God). But I really can't imagine what it would feel like to be put through such a test of gratitude.
It was amazing to witness the Body of Christ working last night, embracing a sister in the midst of tragedy. It was awesome to see the Body of Christ doing what the Body of Christ should... praying and standing beside this sister when all the neighbors had gone inside and the flames were but rubble. And as can be told through the rambling of thoughts and the smell of smoke in my hair, I am still at a loss for complete thoughts and well-poised words regarding the magnitude of thankfulness required even in utter tragedy. How can one produce such gratitude in the midst of loss? Only through the blood of Jesus.
So please take a second to say a prayer for this fellow sister in Christ as she comes out of her shock and lets go of what has been taken. Please pray that she is able to continue to be surrounded by those who love her as she takes healing steps. Please pray that she is able to embrace a greater gratitude for Jesus Christ despite the difficulty and how easy it is to doubt God in all this. Please pray. Prayer has an even greater impact than we will ever know.
thank you.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Accomplished
Tomorrow's 7 weeks until due date.
And I'm still able to get up off of the floor...
awkwardly, but that's still an accomplishment!
Not sure when it happened, but no I can't see my feet when standing.
(thanks mom for asking. hehe.)
Take care, all!
Friday, November 21, 2008
just another friday
It feels like years have passed since the alarm went off at 4:30 this morning. Dakota's road-kill with eyes open position spoke volumes to my inner core. Surprisingly despite the time, I was able to find some productivity stored in the depths of my character that outpoured through group note after group note from 6-7:30 this morning. At 10 my body decided it was time for lunch. And now at 12:30 my body has decided it's time for a nap. So with a jolt of a froo-froo coffee drink from downstairs (the last of my allowance money) I find myself once again trying to spur on to productivity. Only this time my rebellion kicks in. So Sara Groves is helping to refocus and put me back in the zone I found myself in this morning. Blessed am I, my first intake no-showed. Now hopefully my second intake will no-show and I can find myself homeward bound after only putting in 9 hours of work. What was once a personal attempt to complete "all my outstanding paperwork" has melted into a realistic goal that is being played out differently than the initial attempt. Another quiet Friday, me and the janitor competing for the longevity award (only he appears to have more life than this carcass) and the regular 3 dedicated individuals in the office - 2 newly hired. How everyone else appears to pull off their workload and a 40+ hour Monday through Friday shift without being in existence on Fridays still remains a mystery to me. But alas... back to the repetitious soul-sucking of the office - brightened a bit by Sara Groves' melodies that cut through thick Friday drag and ironically sing out about, "freedom..."
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Baby, Youth, Danielle, and Alien
We got a new (to us) swing last night for baby. Twas fun to go pick it up and promptly put it in the living room upon getting home. This weekend we'll get a crib. YEAH! It's white and free. And that is overwhelmingly awesome!
Matt and I have just been recouping from this weekend. Wonderful weekend, but man I tell you it was tiring. I think I got 11 hours of sleep over the youth weekend part, which is semi-doable without another live to attempt to sustain. The youth appeared to enjoy the weekend, be challenged in their faith, and desire change in their walks with God. So it was a highly successful weekend.
I got to hold Danielle again on Sunday. Funny but holding that little 5 week old is so precious on two levels... 1. she's absolutely adorable and 2. it still blows my mind that someone so small is inside of me.
Alien movements have been quite the normalcy. You should see my stomach go crazy at different times in the day. It's hilarious! And Matt appears to be enjoying all the activity. Though I must admit, the hip and back assaults can be sometimes painful.
So yeah.. that's us. We're doing great. 8 weeks to go! So how are you? What's new?
Matt and I have just been recouping from this weekend. Wonderful weekend, but man I tell you it was tiring. I think I got 11 hours of sleep over the youth weekend part, which is semi-doable without another live to attempt to sustain. The youth appeared to enjoy the weekend, be challenged in their faith, and desire change in their walks with God. So it was a highly successful weekend.
I got to hold Danielle again on Sunday. Funny but holding that little 5 week old is so precious on two levels... 1. she's absolutely adorable and 2. it still blows my mind that someone so small is inside of me.
Alien movements have been quite the normalcy. You should see my stomach go crazy at different times in the day. It's hilarious! And Matt appears to be enjoying all the activity. Though I must admit, the hip and back assaults can be sometimes painful.
So yeah.. that's us. We're doing great. 8 weeks to go! So how are you? What's new?
Friday, November 14, 2008
Sports Car
Driving home from an errand last night I heard the sounds of a wholed muffler and gas-eating engine passing my car. I turned and looked out the window, giving the other driver the attention they desired when they "altered" their car. And I found great enjoyment as a 4 door sedan with glowing track light under the car and new barrel exhaust pipe passed me filled with four teenage boys. I mean come on man, almost 8 months pregnant, Chevy Cavalier with Celine Dion blaring me was more of a sports car than them.
=)
People entertain me. Especially as the child wasted half the gas tank by revving the engine at the stoplight. Clearly if the child had paid for his own gas for more than the last two weeks conservation would have quieted that engine a little. =)
I love it.
=)
People entertain me. Especially as the child wasted half the gas tank by revving the engine at the stoplight. Clearly if the child had paid for his own gas for more than the last two weeks conservation would have quieted that engine a little. =)
I love it.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Kitchen Delight
Now that it is more predictable and more felt from the outside world, here's Jes enjoying a good kicking. This is the first time she felt her new niece or nephew moving.
(Thanks again for the picture Mom.)
Check out her face. I love seeing that delight.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Crossing the Threshhold
Wanna know something cool?
9 weeks to go. And looking at the calender this afternoon I realized the following things are happening before the baby comes:
9 weeks to go. And looking at the calender this afternoon I realized the following things are happening before the baby comes:
- This weekend (Nov 14-16) youth retreat - Discipleship Now
- Following weekend (Nov 22) - hang out with mom and jes and make Christmas decorations
- Nov 23 - church baby shower
- Nov 25 - childbirth classes begin
- Then - Thanksgiving in Michigan and NFL hall of fame
- Next weekend (Dec 6) - celebrate Mom's b-day and Cinci baby shower
- Wednesday Dec 10 - welcome our nephew to the world.
- Next weekend (Dec 12-13) - live nativity scene
- Dec 16 - Childbirth classes end
- Next weekend (Dec 20) - FREE!
- Dec 21 - last dog training class.
- Next weekend - Christmas
- New Years - no work (we probably won't even stay up til midnight on the Eve)
- Next weekend (Jan 3) - FREE!
- Next weekend (Jan 9-11) - my due date.
That's right, friends, totally cool! And just think how quickly that all will fly and yet how much joy and laughter will be had over the next 9 weeks prior to the start of parenthood for Matt and me. Granted, baby could pop up any time to add to the festivities, but we're hoping to make it to January (or at least I'm hoping because Matt thought it'd be cool to have a Christmas baby). But for once, little one, don't listen to your father.
Alrighty, back to what I do best...
eating a snack.
Friday, November 07, 2008
G'mornin' Ya'll
Well, dear friends, this morning is another fabulous Friday. And why are Fridays fabulous? Because they seem to come quicker and quicker lately. It's been surprising to me how quickly these past few weeks and months have flown. And I must be honest here... I'm really enjoying that aspect. See, when you're waiting in excitement and anticipation for a baby (just ask Matt, he can testify), the waiting can be fun, but so can be the receiving. As the days pass and I pass by the nursery I wonder about baby. Will she be a she or he be a he? What color eyes and hair? Will baby have Matt's nose, my nose or a combo of both? Cone head? (Hey, our niece pulled it off and she's a cutie now). Will baby be a smiler? A clinger? As active as baby has been inside?
Obedience training is going well with Dakota. Sometimes she is a selective learner, but she is trying and I'm sure she's enjoying the fruit of her labor. (Do you want a treat?) We've gotten a greater distinction between speak, sit and lay down. Though sometimes she decides to sit and lay down with vocals (which is not atypical for a husky). I think the biggest improvement is the consistency and intentionality of training her from Matt and I. She's a good girl and I'm looking forward to obedience class on Sunday.
Tonight Robin and I get to hang out. I'm looking forward to trashing our kitchen tonight as we attempt to make an edible-looking birthday cake for Jes' birthday celebration tomorrow. I told Robin to be prepared to get dirty because I'm a messy baker. "I know," came her instant I've-lived-with-you-for-a-year-and-know-all-too-well-your-baking-habits response. "We only have one apron so you're going to be out of luck," I told her. "What are you talking about? You should be the one who's afraid." So apparently she is already planning her tactics to acquire my apron. Hehe. This should be quite fun!
Matt's 10-page "short" paper is due Monday for his class. This is the first and last of his semester papers here in the first semester of his seminary degree. Matt is really looking forward to the semester's end as we both count down tests, exams, and paper. That 6 week break will be well-deserved for Matt and highly enjoyed by all. (Let alone the normal joy of the holidays and the new joy of our soon-arriving baby).
So yeah, things are humming along with life and all. Work helps me look all the more forward to a 2 month break devoted solely to family. Church is going well. I'm still looking for my spot to serve and grow at church, but I'm confident that some day I'll find it. Until then, I keep popping around the church and being involved in various ministries. i was thinking how quickly this past year flew by in reference to Matt and my first year of marriage. Odd to think of celebrating 2 years of marriage in 10 months from now. Odd in a cool way, not in a "I didn't think we'd make it this far" way. Looking forward to the arrival of our nephew in 33 days. Really looking forward to Thanksgiving in Michigan and going to the NFL Hall of Fame around Cleveland-ish with Matt "on the way back" after Michigan. Looking forward to finding out if our fireplace can burn wood, Saturday afternoon with the family, seeing Iowa at church on Sunday, tonight with Robin, snuggling with Dakota (when she's cooperative), and that feeling of freedom as one leaves the Friday parking lot in pursuit of the weekend.
So g'mornin' ya'll and I hope things are going well with you. Hopefully you have found life's little joys to enjoy. Have a good one!
Obedience training is going well with Dakota. Sometimes she is a selective learner, but she is trying and I'm sure she's enjoying the fruit of her labor. (Do you want a treat?) We've gotten a greater distinction between speak, sit and lay down. Though sometimes she decides to sit and lay down with vocals (which is not atypical for a husky). I think the biggest improvement is the consistency and intentionality of training her from Matt and I. She's a good girl and I'm looking forward to obedience class on Sunday.
Tonight Robin and I get to hang out. I'm looking forward to trashing our kitchen tonight as we attempt to make an edible-looking birthday cake for Jes' birthday celebration tomorrow. I told Robin to be prepared to get dirty because I'm a messy baker. "I know," came her instant I've-lived-with-you-for-a-year-and-know-all-too-well-your-baking-habits response. "We only have one apron so you're going to be out of luck," I told her. "What are you talking about? You should be the one who's afraid." So apparently she is already planning her tactics to acquire my apron. Hehe. This should be quite fun!
Matt's 10-page "short" paper is due Monday for his class. This is the first and last of his semester papers here in the first semester of his seminary degree. Matt is really looking forward to the semester's end as we both count down tests, exams, and paper. That 6 week break will be well-deserved for Matt and highly enjoyed by all. (Let alone the normal joy of the holidays and the new joy of our soon-arriving baby).
So yeah, things are humming along with life and all. Work helps me look all the more forward to a 2 month break devoted solely to family. Church is going well. I'm still looking for my spot to serve and grow at church, but I'm confident that some day I'll find it. Until then, I keep popping around the church and being involved in various ministries. i was thinking how quickly this past year flew by in reference to Matt and my first year of marriage. Odd to think of celebrating 2 years of marriage in 10 months from now. Odd in a cool way, not in a "I didn't think we'd make it this far" way. Looking forward to the arrival of our nephew in 33 days. Really looking forward to Thanksgiving in Michigan and going to the NFL Hall of Fame around Cleveland-ish with Matt "on the way back" after Michigan. Looking forward to finding out if our fireplace can burn wood, Saturday afternoon with the family, seeing Iowa at church on Sunday, tonight with Robin, snuggling with Dakota (when she's cooperative), and that feeling of freedom as one leaves the Friday parking lot in pursuit of the weekend.
So g'mornin' ya'll and I hope things are going well with you. Hopefully you have found life's little joys to enjoy. Have a good one!
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
A Slice of Something...
Well, this should make things very interesting, very fast. We should expect to see some change... yes friends, change like we never saw it before. But I have a feeling we're going to miss the America that was which has been exchanged for an American in which such a small portion of the liberal population believes. I certainly will confess that I am not desiring of such changes that have been declared as "good" from our soon-to-be President and I wonder how many others, beyond the Christians I have spoken to recently, will be added to that same category. It is quite disappointing that so many claiming "Christians" could ever vote for things that are so far from the Truth. It'll be very interesting over the next four years to find out just what slice of something has been elected. But I'm not thinking it's the slice of heaven that the media portrays. (Then again why should we expect a media who has continually lied in the past to be telling the truth now?)
Guess Christ-followers are going to learn a big lesson in respecting authority while politely and devoutly disagreeing with each decision. Wonder where that'll put true Christians in this country?
On the bright side... Christianity has always grown in oppression. So when we all have prayed for growth of the Christian church and the true believers of the Lord, God's answer was through an increasingly struggling country. So be it... all for the Glory of God.
Guess Christ-followers are going to learn a big lesson in respecting authority while politely and devoutly disagreeing with each decision. Wonder where that'll put true Christians in this country?
On the bright side... Christianity has always grown in oppression. So when we all have prayed for growth of the Christian church and the true believers of the Lord, God's answer was through an increasingly struggling country. So be it... all for the Glory of God.
Sunday, November 02, 2008
Flyin' Fall
Good morning all. It's so nice to wake up in the "fall back" as opposed to the "spring forward." Yeah, one more hour of sleep is quite nice. It's given me a bit of extra time this morning to come to a couple of realizations and looking forward to a couple of things today.
1. We're starting obedience training class with Dakota today at 2pm. I'm looking forward to spending some time investing in our dog's character and also helping her to be less psycho on the lead. This is an 8-week training class teaching the basics with some other beginner and non-puppy dogs. I'm actually looking forward most to spending time with Matt in working with our doggie that he loves so much (not to imply that I don't love her, but just that she' totally Matt's dog due to the way she has adopted him).
2. I was looking through my calender today and realized that today marks week 30 of pregnancy (as you can see from the baby ticker above) but in other terms that marks 10 weeks until the baby's due date. That blew my mind. 10 weeks out, friends! Wow. That's coming quite fast. Not a bad fast. Just whew! Fast! I remember counting down the wedding. And now my planner has the baby countdown going. It's crazy to see the things we plan for and have planned for come and go with such speed. Before you know it the youth weekend will be here and then the baby shower and then Thanksgiving and then child birthing classes start and then the baby shower with mom and then Christmas and then baby's right around the corner. It absolutely blows my mind. And crammed into all that we get to welcome our nephew into the world on December 10th (Ellen's being induced). And there's the live nativity scene. And so much more to look forward to as the days go by.
Yesterday as Matt and i walked through the mall I said, "You know hunny, it's kind of crazy to think that in just a couple of months we're going to be carting a baby around." "Yeah," Matt said, "Only we probably won't be at the mall." (Typical rational thinker.)
Matt's getting excited and it comes in his tone of voice, his eyes and his incorporation of baby in his sermons. Baby is on his mind. And he's excited. And it's really neat to see and hear.
3. Iowa's coming to Ohio next weekend. I'm so thrilled! It feels like years ago that Renee moved to Iowa, when it's only been months, but I look forward to giving her a hug and seeing her with my own two eyes next weekend. it's an absolutely wonderful joy to have ended our last conversation with, "Welp, see ya next weekend." We should totally end more conversations like that. =) It's funny how much Renee has become a normal part of my thoughts that passing her old house randomly on a short-cut brings back memories of going for a walk about the neighborhood with Ivan, Emmett and Renee. We were talking about life as it was handed to us. And it's just so fun to think of what life has handed to us since that day. - Look forward to seeing my friend.
Well, Matt's up and I'd like to make him breakfast when he gets out of the shower so I better go. I hope this post finds you all doing well.
Thanks for caring to read my rambles and I look forward to reading yours. =)
Take care.
1. We're starting obedience training class with Dakota today at 2pm. I'm looking forward to spending some time investing in our dog's character and also helping her to be less psycho on the lead. This is an 8-week training class teaching the basics with some other beginner and non-puppy dogs. I'm actually looking forward most to spending time with Matt in working with our doggie that he loves so much (not to imply that I don't love her, but just that she' totally Matt's dog due to the way she has adopted him).
2. I was looking through my calender today and realized that today marks week 30 of pregnancy (as you can see from the baby ticker above) but in other terms that marks 10 weeks until the baby's due date. That blew my mind. 10 weeks out, friends! Wow. That's coming quite fast. Not a bad fast. Just whew! Fast! I remember counting down the wedding. And now my planner has the baby countdown going. It's crazy to see the things we plan for and have planned for come and go with such speed. Before you know it the youth weekend will be here and then the baby shower and then Thanksgiving and then child birthing classes start and then the baby shower with mom and then Christmas and then baby's right around the corner. It absolutely blows my mind. And crammed into all that we get to welcome our nephew into the world on December 10th (Ellen's being induced). And there's the live nativity scene. And so much more to look forward to as the days go by.
Yesterday as Matt and i walked through the mall I said, "You know hunny, it's kind of crazy to think that in just a couple of months we're going to be carting a baby around." "Yeah," Matt said, "Only we probably won't be at the mall." (Typical rational thinker.)
Matt's getting excited and it comes in his tone of voice, his eyes and his incorporation of baby in his sermons. Baby is on his mind. And he's excited. And it's really neat to see and hear.
3. Iowa's coming to Ohio next weekend. I'm so thrilled! It feels like years ago that Renee moved to Iowa, when it's only been months, but I look forward to giving her a hug and seeing her with my own two eyes next weekend. it's an absolutely wonderful joy to have ended our last conversation with, "Welp, see ya next weekend." We should totally end more conversations like that. =) It's funny how much Renee has become a normal part of my thoughts that passing her old house randomly on a short-cut brings back memories of going for a walk about the neighborhood with Ivan, Emmett and Renee. We were talking about life as it was handed to us. And it's just so fun to think of what life has handed to us since that day. - Look forward to seeing my friend.
Well, Matt's up and I'd like to make him breakfast when he gets out of the shower so I better go. I hope this post finds you all doing well.
Thanks for caring to read my rambles and I look forward to reading yours. =)
Take care.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)