THE Classic Shot....Well, Almost

My wish came true...

Okay, so the anesthesiologist accidentally cut Mat's head out of the picture, but we have the most important part...BABY!  So happy to be able to log on (even though it took me a week) and post this "classic shot" that I so longed for! You can probably tell by my tear filled eyes that it was one amazing moment!  Truly one of the most memorable and happiest of my life. 

Charlotte Noelle was welcomed into the world at 10:01 AM on December 23, 2011 weighing 8lbs. 6oz. and measuring 20 inches in length.  Life will never be the same. 

39 Weeks

Today, our sweet girl is now 39 weeks along.  Statistics say she is 7 or more pounds by now and 20 or more inches long.  Very soon, we'll find out how accurate that is.  In five hours from now my alarm clock will sound, and I'll get up and dressed and head to the hospital to have her.  Yes, I should be sleeping right now, but I am full of excitement and nervous energy.  It feels quite different to have a "planned c-section"....to know that right now she is hiccuping in my belly and in 9 hours she should be in my arms.  It's strange, surreal, and exciting to experience it in this way. 

I find myself stumbling for the words to express my emotions accurately.  I want her to read this one day and know how much she was wished for, how awaiting her arrival was so incredibly exciting, but yet I still feel too scared to fully embrace it at times.  I'm sad to admit, but when I first learned of this pregnancy and when the due date would be, my heart almost sank.  Not because I didn't want her, not because I didn't think it was such an amazing miracle, but because the doubt and fear quickly overtook my joy and I just assumed that it was very likely that this pregnancy would end in miscarriage too, and rather than celebrating the birth of a baby, I would be mourning what would have been at what's normally such a joyous time of year.  It's no secret that many a Christmas' I longed for a baby, longed to be pregnant, and would always visualize myself having a baby by the next Christmas.  Something about the spectacular wonder of Jesus' birth certainly leaves an infertile hoping for a little miracle of her own.  ;)  Of course, after several years we were blessed with MJ, and I felt that prayer had been answered, but then after two back to back miscarriages, expecting again, and right at Christmas time almost felt like a cruel joke.  Surely God knew my heart couldn't take that ache again, and at Christmas time above all else.  Well, apparently He did know and His plan was just right because tomorrow, on December 23rd, I welcome our daughter into the world, and as fearful as I am for everything to go smooth and uncomplicated, I am trusting in His plan to continue to see me through it.  It almost seems picture perfect.  Never in a million years on all those Christmas' that I spent wishing, did I imagine I'd one day be spending Christmas Day in the hospital cuddling my new baby. 

My brother and parents arrived this week, and it feels complete to have them here.  I am so thankful for their love and support.  We celebrated Christmas today with MJ (pics to come later on one day when I am able to catch up), and it was great to be able to shower MJ with that love and attention.  I know he'll be very well taken care of, and even spoiled I'm sure, over the next few days, but it's certainly feeling sad to know I'll be spending quite a bit of time away from him the next few days. 

There's no doubt that my last birth experience has left me rather fearful.  I expected all to go well with that one and was in for quite a shock, so it's hard to not let all of those emotions and anxiety overtake me.  I am just hopeful and in prayer that this will be a much better experience and might help heal the hurt from the last time.  Everyone knows that classic picture after a c-section birth....the dad holding the baby by the mom's head.  Even though she's unable to hold the baby yet, she's smiling a big smile!  We never got that picture last time.  Our picture was Mat and I....no new baby.  That picture is a painful reminder of what was missing.  So my prayer is this:  my next post will be that "classic shot".  Our baby girl will arrive safely in the world and meet her mommy and daddy who love her so much.  That picture will be taken to capture that moment. She'll then spend her first day being cuddled close to my skin and being welcomed by her big brother, uncle, and grandparents.  There will be no NICU, no helicopters, no suspense.  Our family will be blessed as we welcome the most amazing gift there is-new life. 

Goodnight, and prayers for our baby girl, please. 

Potty Time!

At about 18 months MJ went through a very short stage where he seemed interested in potty training.  We bought him a little potty, he went on it a couple times, and then the phase was over with.  Since then, he's shown no interest.  We've bought a few books to read to him and talk about it every so often trying to hype it up, but he didn't seem to exhibit most of the signs that they say a toddler will show when they're ready for this stage.  Definitely wasn't staying dry, or anywhere close it it, at night time, didn't seem to mind being in a dirty diaper, want to be changed, etc.  When we'd mention going potty he'd usually say "no!" and even threw the potty chair down the steps once.  Nice!  It really didn't seem like he was ready, so we didn't force it. 

In an ideal world, I was hoping he'd be potty trained before the baby arrived, but I wasn't overly optimistic and as her birth is getting closer and closer, I was realizing it was a very slim chance.  We recently started feeling like maybe he was ready to give it a shot, but we weren't sure if it was wise to start it right before the baby came along.  It seems like research shows that many toddlers will regress once a new baby comes home, and in all honesty as I was nearing the end of pregnancy I wasn't sure I had the energy it took.  Just when we were kind of debating what to do, MJ made his move!  Last weekend he came to me and wanted to be changed immediately after he'd had a wet diaper.  I tried putting him on the potty, we read a couple books, and he went!!  I was so excited, and made sure he knew just how proud I was with lots of love and praise.  We called Daddy to tell him the news and took pictures and Daddy even brought him home a small present (a new car, of course)!  He went potty a couple times that day, even a #2, and so off we went to buy underwear.  He picked out some Cars and Thomas the Train big boy underwear and we grabbed a bag of Pull-Ups for nap time/night time.  The next couple days were filled with some successes, but he really wanted nothing to do with wearing underwear.  Looking back, we probably should have forced it, but even getting him to wear the Pull-Ups seemed like quite a battle.  I've always heard it's best just to make the switch and go from diapers straight to underwear or the cloth training pants, but I knew he was not ready for those during sleep time, and maybe I hesitated too much.  Who knows, but then it seems like things have just digressed the last few days. He started feeling bad again, so I'm sure that hasn't helped, and he's been solely in diapers for the last few days.  He still wants to be changed right away when he's dirty, so I guess that continues to be a good sign, although he now knows how to take his pants down, take his diaper off himself, and bring it to you.  Lovely!  ;) 

Less than a week away from delivery now, and with him quite sick right now, I doubt we'll force the issue too much from here.  I figure that with winter setting in and having a new baby, we're going to be at home A LOT, so it might be the perfect time to put a greater focus on it then.  We'll need to get dedicated and set a timer and put him on the potty at regular intervals and really try to work on it.  I think he's on the brink of it, so hopefully with a little dedication on our part, it will all click soon.  Until then, a few cute pictures to share of our potty training adventure last weekend.  His pride and excitement was adorable!....

 Yay, MJ!  He went pee pee on the potty for the first time since 18 mos. 

 Waiting in line with his new underwear

Reading his books and being patient waiting for the magic to happen! 

Oh, and on a side note, I bought him the book Everyone Poops, and I must say it's quickly become his favorite book at the moment and of course the first one he's memorized.  Go figure! It's so funny and cute to listen to him read it aloud over and over and over. 

Bring On Ho-Ho!

It's official, MJ loves "Ho-Ho"!  That's what he calls Santa.  The first year went like this:  Set MJ in Santa's lap and he screamed and cried, I realized it was kind of silly to go through all of that for a picture of a screaming baby.  The second year went like this:  saw Santa two different places, MJ wanted no part of sitting in his lap so we just looked from a distance.  But this year, much to our surprise went like this:

Run up and give Ho-Ho a BIG hug!!!

It was precious!  I think the stage was set a few weeks ago when MJ saw Santa came down the 4th Street Elevator and shook MJ's hand (remember the adorable video posted??).  He's been talking about it ever since!  I think it was just enough to really impress him, and let him warm up to the idea of Santa. 

Loras College's Campus Ministry group has a Christmas party each year for kids.  It's super cute and very thoughtful.  The group has crafts, snacks, a Xmas movie, and a nice mix of a religious focus as well as an appearance by Santa.  It's pretty short and really geared at the young kiddos, not too crowded or overwhelming, etc.  This was MJ's chance to see Santa up close and personal, if he chose.  Well, wouldn't ya know it when Santa made his grand entrance into the party, he came straight to MJ and shook his hand.  It was perfect!  You would have thought it was the same Santa and he knew just want MJ wanted.  Ha!  MJ was so thrilled and told us "Ho-Ho shake MJ's hand again!"  :)  He was enjoying all his munchies though and watching one of his faves "The Reindeer Show" (the original Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer) to be bothered rushing off to the line that quickly formed to sit in Santa's lap. 

Eating yummy treats and movie watching with Daddy

So, we just took our time and when he was ready we hopped in line and waited our turn.  He didn't seem nervous at all and we began thinking maybe he'd actually be willing to do it, but didn't make too much of a fuss over it either way. 

All smiles waiting his turn in line

After he ran up and gave Santa that big hug, he was happy to sit in his lap for a few moments.  I'm not quite sure what he said, but I know there was something about cars (surprise, surprise), and then Santa gave MJ a present.  He got a gift box filled with cute little goodies and treats that he just loved! 

It was so sweet to see him truly enjoy this experience and see the joy and enthusiasm as he told us about it.  What a difference a year makes!  I am just loving see the excitement he has about Christmas this year.  It's the first year where he gets it, at least a little bit.  He has a little advent calendar that my parents sent him, and he knows that when all the doors are opened and the candy is gone, Santa will come.  We also have the Elf on the Shelf, that Mat's parents gave us a couple years ago, and he's really into finding his elf, and talking about him each day!  Watching all the Christmas movies and cartoons on TV has been so much fun as well.  I just love the coziness, warmth, and love that this time of year brings, and sharing it with him is just so special!

Of course, I'm trying to instill the real meaning of Christmas and exactly who and what we're celebrating.  At two years old though, I'm not quite sure how much he gets it and I can't help but laugh and wonder if he's thoroughly confused.  We talk about "Baby Jesus" a lot and how Christmas is a celebration of his birthday.  He recognizes Baby Jesus in our nativity scene, his books, decorations, etc., but then we're also talking a lot about the baby in mommy's tummy that is coming at Christmas.  I'm afraid he's going to think that we're having a baby Jesus!  lol  Don't get me wrong, this baby girl is one big blessing, but we don't want to confuse the kid that bad!  :) 

It's sure to be a special Christmas in SO many ways!...  Just working on getting MJ healthy so he can enjoy it all.  Poor little guy has been battling a cough and chest congestion for quite some time.  I took him to the doctor about 2 or 3 weeks ago and he was put on an antibiotic for a sinus infection.  I was as well, right about the same time.  We both really improved and I thought were in the clear.  Then, this past weekend we both seemed to start having symptoms again, so both scripts were refilled.  I was determined that we WOULD be healthy before this baby is born.  Luckily, I started feeling better again, but MJ seemed to just keep turning for the worse.  By last night, I was really worried about how much he was wheezing and breathing heavy, so first thing this morning we went back to the doctor.  Poor little guy has bronchitis and is now on two antibiotics and steroids trying to clear up his lungs and get him in tip top shape quickly.  This is the sickest I've seen him since his RSV a couple years ago, and of course after his birth.  Luckily, he's such a good little sick guy.  Just wants to sleep and cuddle and watch cartoons, so hopefully with lots of rest and some good meds he'll be feeling better in a couple more days and ready to enjoy Christmas and welcome his baby sister! 



38 Weeks

Baby girl is now 38 weeks.  She seems to be doing just fine as far as we can tell.  She's still quite active, and her heartbeat today was 145 bpm.  I'm still having a decent amount of Braxton Hicks contractions, but apparently nothing too real or productive because baby girl does not appear to be ready to come out naturally.  Looks like it will be another c-section for us.  In order to try for a VBAC next week, I needed to have a softening cervix, her head engaged, and starting to dilate.  Unfortunately though none of those things have happened.  She is still head down, but she's "floating" high and cervix is closed.  I'm sure I could insist on waiting it out, but we all feel safest with her being delivered at 39 weeks, based on what happened last time, and if that means having a c-section, then so be it.  I just want her here healthy and safe.  I'm a tad disappointed as I was hoping for a quicker recovery and a different experience, but in some ways it's also a bit of a relief too.  I know more what to expect, can plan for it, and don't have so much of the unknown as far as labor and a vaginal birth goes.  I'm thankful he checked me rather than tried to induce me next Friday and then I labored for hours and still ended up with c-section. 

So, as long as I don't go into labor any earlier, which looks rather doubtful, our sweet baby girl will join our family on December 23rd.  We arrive at the hospital at 6AM and surgery is set for 8AM.  I'm looking forward to what I hope is more of a standard delivery, rather than an emergency c-section.  I am praying for a healthy baby and actually seeing her afterwards, being able to bond, and spend some time with my little family. Looks like we'll most likely be spending Christmas Day in the hospital and will be discharged on Monday, December 26th.  He said if everyone was healthy and feeling really well we might be able to come home on Christmas Day, so we'll just play it by ear.  Luckily MJ is too young to realize if we celebrate Christmas on a different day.  It will be different for sure, but I'm actually looking a bit forward to it.  I think it will be really special welcoming a new baby right before Christmas and having my family together. 

One more week to go!!

Words Just Don't Do It Justice

It's hard to even put into words just how much I love this little boy.  Not only is MJ in a really cute, and sometimes ornery, stage right now, but as I'm quickly approaching the birth of our second child I find myself reflecting on my love for MJ, his growth and development over the last 2 1/2 years, and am just amazed by him-simply put.  There is no doubt that God designed this child to fit my heart's mold.  I mean, seriously, just look at this face...

Mat and I completely melted when we got this picture.  We got a notice from his preschool that they were taking school pictures.  I basically laughed it off wondering how in the world they'd take a class photo as well as individual shots of a bunch of two year olds.  I ordered the cheapest package possible because I imagined a milk mustache, boogie nose, and maybe even some tears.  My little charmer rocked it though!  I'll treasure this photo forever!  It's when I realized "my baby" was no longer a baby, officialy. 

I know I'm not alone in feeling this way because I've heard many an expecting mommy say it before, but as excited as I am to welcome our baby girl into this family, I am also experiencing a bit of guilt and sadness knowing that MJ won't be my one and only anymore.  I just adore him so incredibly much that it's hard to imagine that I can feel this way about another child.  I know in my head that my heart will expand and I will love this child, and any more that we may be blessed with, just as much, but I guess it's hard to fully comprehend.  This guilt or nervousness, for lack of a better word, is making me fully appreciate these last couple weeks with just him.  In the midst of my tiredness, holiday prepping, house projects, and illnesses, I am trying my best to savor each and every "Mommy and MJ" moment.  We've had some fun around the house just playing, doing lots of baking together, and getting in the holiday spirit...







MJ loves to help me make cookies, and we've been making LOTS that I've been freezing in prep for Christmas.

Of course, we've eaten plenty, too!  Warm cookies and milk make for a happy toddler!

Just hanging out playing cars in MJ's room.

 Fingerpainting at home with mom and dad.



I am beyond thankful to have been blessed with his life.  He brings about emotions in me that no one else can.  I can look at him and just tear up in awe, I can watch him sleep and feel like all is perfect in the world, he can fall and get a bloody lip and my heart sinks, he can pout and make his lip quiver and I have to use all my strength not to cave in.  This little one shook me to my core from the moment he was born.  As much as I love him, don't get me wrong-he challenges me daily and I often count the minutes for nap time or bed time, but each and every night I am sure to count my blessing, my biggest blessing thus far, and know just how lucky I am to be his mommy.

Thank you God, for blessing me with this child, and thank you MJ for being the loving, sweet, playful, and sensitive little one that you are.  May you always know how much you are loved...

Officially Ready!

Baby girl's room is officially ready for her.  Chances are she won't sleep in there all that much the first couple months anyways, but it's nice to finally have the room put together, organized, and finished!  It really took a backseat as we were working on the bathroom.  Just a few weeks ago it looked like this...

It was so dirty, full of sawdust, and seemed like we had such a looooong way to go.  I did loads of laundry, tons of cleaning, scrubbing, and wiping down of everything, and then Mat moved in and worked his magic!  He did such a great job painting it just like I had envisioned it.  I'm so happy with the way it turned out. 

We spent very little money on this room.  My dear friend, Shannon, loaned me all the bedding and matching accessories.  The furniture was all of MJ's previous nursery furniture, and the curtains I had on hand.  We purchased an area rug, some baskets, and a few decorative touches.  I made the tissue poofs hanging above her crib and am working on a restored old window that will hang above her changing table and have her name on it.  I still have a couple things left to do like add a cushion to the rocking chair, and use some ribbon to tie dress up the curtains a bit.  They may or may not happen before she's born, but we're both just ecstatic with the final outcome and look forward to seeing our baby girl in here soon. 

Baby girl's crib:  Cocalo Bella Baby bedding (loaned to me by Shannon) and my DIY tissue poofs

View into her room from the doorway.  Curtains still to be finalized, and I have an old window that I'm restoring that will hang above her changing table and have her name on it. 

The rocking chair my mother rocked me in, a table I got from my parent's basement that they were going to get rid of, coordinating lamp, and Mary Englebreit artwork I've been hanging onto for years.

Mat's great painting work, bookshelf, etc.

Ballerina cross-stitch that my mom made for my room as a little girl.  It's needs a new mat, but so special to have it hanging in my daughter's room!

Her special mementos, books, toys, and cloth diapers ready to go!

Took me forever to find a rug that matched and that I liked.  Yay for Super Target! 

We hope you love it, sweet baby girl! 

Full Term!

Baby girl is officially full term now that we've hit 37 weeks, today!  It's funny how we obviously know this baby is coming very soon now and I'm obviously very pregnant, but somehow yet it's hard to believe we're about to have another baby!

At 37 weeks, she is supposedly in the 6 1/2 pound range in weight and 19 inch range in length (just the standards, not her specifics).  Her lungs are now mature enough hopefully that if she were born, she could do well without extra breathing assistance.  I've gained a total of 26 pounds so far.  Somehow I actually managed to lose a tiny bit this past week.  Given my crazy sweet tooth, I have no idea how that's possible, but it's just been so nice to not be gaining all the water weight at the end like I did with MJ.  This girl seriously likes her sweets though!!  Cookies and cake do not usually tempt me, but I crave sweets every single night.  It's insane! 

I am feeling SO much better.  So glad I went to the doctor last week and got the antibiotics.  Now it just feels like a lingering cold, but I definitely feel much better than this time last week.  Just really sleepy during the days as I don't sleep well at night, but that's just par for the course. 

This past week I've been thinking more and more about VBAC versus C-section, doing a little reading, and preparing a list of questions for my doctor.  We had our 37 week appointment with him today, and he really spent a lot of time answering all our questions and making us feel really comfortable with it all.  As of right now, I am a good VBAC candidate, but we are going to need to wait until our 38 week appointment to find out for sure how we'll proceed, assuming of course I don't go into labor before then. He encourages VBAC whenever they are possible, which I do appreciate.  He said his own wife gave birth via c-section first, and then two VBAC's later, so to me that means if he'd put his own wife in that situation, he must feel confident. 

 Next week he will check me and if the cervix is soft and open, and I've begun to slightly dilate and the baby's head is engaged, then it's a good sign that we could have a successful VBAC.  He said about 80% of VBACS are successful.  If those things are not in place, then it's a pretty good sign that that chances are we're not going to successfully deliver vaginally, and we'll stick with the c-section plan.  The C-section is still scheduled for Dec. 23rd.  If we are able to go the VBAC route, he recommends we deliver at 39 weeks, based on what happened with my body and MJ's birth waiting until 40 weeks.  So, his recommendation would be to induce me at 39 weeks, and he'd do it on a day he's on call.  So, most likely on Dec. 23rd we'll either be having a c-section or being induced for a VBAC. 

It sounds like with a VBAC we'd be monitored very closely.  If the baby were to go into distress or any problems hinting at uterine rupture creeped up, I'd go into c-section right away.  I'd have to have an epidural (umm, yes please) because you have to have one in place in case they have to end up doing a c-section.  He said anytime there's a VBAC the doctor is there the entire time.  I guess with typical deliveries, they often check you, and come back hours later, but with VBACS, the doctors are required to stay around and keep a close eye on things.  I definitely felt reassured and like we'd have good communication and be in good hands. 

One way or the other doesn't seem to clearly stick out to me as the best option. There are pros and cons either way. If we choose c-section, I feel like I'll probably be a bit more at ease nerves wise, but don't look forward to the recovery time now that I have a toddler at home and LOTS of stairs!  Of course it's not the end of the world, and plenty of women do it, but if I could choose a quicker recovery without major surgery it seems like a better option. 

On the other hand, a vbac can be a very long process (like any labor), and may or may not end up in a c-section anyways.  I'd like the idea of giving birth in that way, holding my baby immediately, and a quicker recovery, but there are no guarantees in any of that of course. 

So, I feel like right now the best thing is to listen to my body and take those clues in order to make my decision.  If we go to the appointment at 38 weeks and all those factors are aligned that need to be, then we'll at least try for the VBAC and see what happens.  If the baby's not engaged and my body doesn't seem to be preparing, then I'll take it as a sign that the c-section is what's safest and meant for baby and I.  Soooo, decision to come this time next week, assuming nothing happens before then.  :) 

Still Baking!

Today's ultrasound went as well as we could have possibly hoped for.  We learned that the baby is indeed a girl, which is a good thing since we just finished painting lots of pink!  We learned that she is head down and in the correct position.  I honestly never expected this to happen and now have some thinking to do regarding VBAC or repeat C-Section.  Ahh!  But, most importantly we learned that her fluid levels were wonderful.  A normal range is 5-25.  Anything below 5 and she would have been delivered today, but she was at 18!!  The doctor was so impressed that he said there's no need to recheck them next week.  They also do a scale, almost kind of similar to Apgar at birth, where the baby receives 0-2 points on each:  heart rate, breathing, movement/position, and fluid level and she received a full 8 points.  Amazing results and a wonderful blessing!!!  As excited as I am getting to meet her, I was so relieved that her birthday would not be today. 

I am really looking forward now to relaxing a bit, enjoying this special time with MJ and Mat, and slowly completing my last few tasks without feeling stressed like it's a mad dash.  It feels pretty good in fact to know that my house is clean and in order for the most part and I have no huge projects hanging over my head.  Everything left to do seems more manageable now and hopefully can be spread out over the next couple weeks, and I can focus on resting a bit more and taking care of myself and baby girl. 

I admitted to my doctor that I really don't remember feeling this tired and worn out at this point with my pregnancy with MJ.  I was teaching full time then and was in no rush to deliver him at all, but honestly right now I am feeling quite tired and way more physically worn down.  I get so out of breath just going up and down the stairs, seem to have a harder time sleeping, and generally just feel lethargic. Taking a shower and drying my hair feels like a total body workout!  He chalked it up to being sick with a sinus infection and it really affecting energy levels of a pregnant person and being much harder to bounce back from.  I have another round of antibiotics to start next week if need be, but we'll see.  I'd like baby girl to stay put and develop as long as possible, but I am wondering if I won't begin to feel much better until after I deliver.  I guess time will tell. 

Maybe?...But Hopefully Not

Well, tomorrow morning is our ultrasound to check fluid levels.  I have no reason to think anything won't be a-okay, but we have to be prepared that she could need to be delivered tomorrow depending upon the results. 

Hospital bags are kinda-sorta packed, baby's room is mostly ready, and house is mostly clean, mom is on stand-by, and babysitter is in place in case we need her.  "Mostly" being the key word on all of this.  There is much more I'd like to get done, and I would certainly like her to bake a while longer, but at least if it does happen, we're kinda-sorta ready. 

Unfortunately, this past week both MJ and I came down with sinus infections.  I was hoping I could avoid his germs, but it got me.  He was at the doctor on Monday, and then on Tuesday it was my turn.  We're both on antibiotics, but I must admit he's more resilient than I.  I am not liking this dejavu feeling of being sick and worn down towards the end of my pregnancy.  Just hoping I can get healthy, enjoy some holiday festivities, and then deliver baby girl closer to the end of the month. 

I'm feeling like a bit of a bad mommy lately.  MJ has been quite full of energy, despite getting sick, and in full toddler mode.  My energy and patience are both wearing low, and I know it's not fair to him.  I'm trying to do my best with books, puzzles, Christmas movies, and playing cars.  He'd certainly appreciate it I'm sure if I was more into running and chasing him and playing outdoors.  I'm sure it's par for the course, and I won't scar him for life, but it's definitely different this time and wearing me down a bit more quickly I think. 

Hopefully we'll have great news to share tomorrow!  Trusting in God's plan for everything...

A Thanksgiving to Remember

Since Mat and I married we have had the opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving in many different ways.  From visits to our parents and grandparents, to cooking my first Thanksgiving meal and eating outdoors on our patio in Key West, to visiting and eating with friends in FL, traveling from FL to St. Louis, hosting in Lakeland for my family, and hosting in Dubuque for either Mat's family or my family.  LOTS of great memories made so far!  This year was definitely quite different, but also definitely quite special and one I'm sure that we'll always remember.  It was spent at home just the three of us.  Because both our families plan to visit soon when the baby arrives, no one came to Dubuque, and because we're quite far along in the pungency, we weren't traveling anywhere.  It seemed quite perfect though.  I know I was desperately in need of some quiet low key family time, and that's exactly what we had.  I even took the easy way out and ordered our Thanksgiving meal.  I don't know if it's because I didn't have to cook it or because I'm 8 1/2 months pregnant and always hungry, but it was one of the best Thanksgiving meals ever!!!  Hy-Vee did a good job.  :)  I made macaroni and cheese and pumpkin cake and Hy-Vee made the rest:  turkey breast, gravy, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, rolls, and stuffing.  Mmmm  mmm!  

Our family time was spread out over several days though and began with MJ's first big show.  We took him to see Sesame Street Live!  Unfortunately, he was a little under the weather, but he still did quite well.  He was in awe of Elmo especially and anytime Elmo left the stage, he'd ask "Elmo??"  I have vague, but fun memories of attending SSL as a kid myself and had been looking forward to sharing this with MJ! 

Watching the characters take the stage!

On Thanksgiving morning we woke up and made cinnamon rolls and watched the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.  Watching the parade is by far my favorite childhood Thanksgiving memory.  I love that MJ is now able to watch it and gets excited seeing the big floats on TV. 

Then, it was time to start doing the little cooking I needed to do.  MJ helped me make the pumpkin cake.  He loves to help mommy cook!  I realize I look quite large and quite scary (pre shower), but this pic of him helping me was too cute not to share.  ;)



Then, it was time for MJ to help me set the table.  He had fun scattering leaves all over the table...also known as throwing them everywhere and making a big mess (he's getting quite good at this skill)!



All cleaned up and ready to celebrate Thanksgiving with my boys.  35 weeks pregnant with the ultimate blessing!



After our Thanksgiving lunch, MJ took a nap and Mat cleaned up the entire kitchen while I rested on the couch and then even took a little nap myself.  Ahhh, pure bliss! 

I wish there were more holidays like Thanksgiving.  It often gets overlooked in the hustle and bustle from Halloween to Christmas, but there's just something so special about taking the time to pause and truly recognize the things in your life you're so thankful for.  I think having the quiet time at home made this even easier this year.  I wasn't as worried about if my house was clean or how my food turned out, but truly focused in on the upcoming miracle we are expecting, our healthy growing toddler, a husband who loves me and MJ, our incredible families, and great circle of friends. 



On Thanksgiving night we went to the drive through light display in Dubuque.  MJ LOVED it this year!!  The last couple years he hasn't seemed too impressed by it one way or the other but this year he was very vocal.  "More lights, more lights" he says constantly.  We even drove around trying to find some homes decorated already and he would get so excited with each and every one. 

I couldn't help but share this one because we were dying laughing when we saw it.  It looked like it was straight out of Clark Griswold's yard from National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation...

After lights it was home for bath time and then we snuggled in bed together and watched Charlie Brown's Thanksgiving.  Not sure why I thought it would be a good idea to give MJ a big bowl of popcorn in my bed.  Hellllllo salt in my sheets!!!  It was cute watching him enjoy it though.  









The day after Thanksgiving, Dubuque has a cute event downtown just a short ways from our house.  The sidewalks are all lit with luminaries and Santa and Mrs. Claus descend down the 4th Street Elevator (basically like a little street car) and make their grand appearance in Dubuque.  MJ's reaction was absolutely priceless and totally worth it!  We hadn't been to this event before, but last year MJ was completely terrified of Santa.  This year he still says "noooo" when we ask if he wants to sit on Santa's lap, but seeing and touching Santa seem to be a-okay with him this year. 



Daddy and MJ waiting for Santa to make his big appearance

Not the best picture, but the light up the hill right before Santa comes down.  He rides down in the elevator.  For those of you that haven't been to Dubuqe before, the 4th street elevator is in the heart of Dubuque's "Cable Car Square" shopping area.  It's an attraction for tourists to ride up and down the hill.  Gotta love small town attractions!  :)

Santa makes his way through the crowd then and greets some of the children.  He made his way right by MJ and reached out his gloved hand to shake MJ's.  Not sure I've ever seen the kid so excited.  He kept telling us "Ho Ho shake MJ hand!"  Adorable!! 

Once we got in the car, I got him to tell us what happened.  Might be my favorite video ever...



Such a great weekend, and it's not even over yet.  Oh, and one other big highlight?!  The nursery has been painted and mostly all put together!  Woo hoo!! 



I Might Be in Trouble...

Our first couple winters here, I haven't had to worry much about playing in the snow.  If we've done so, it's pretty much been on our terms because we basically forced MJ to get outside and experience the snow.  But, I think things are going to be different this winter!

A couple weeks ago we had our first snow of the season.  It wasn't much and most of it melted within the morning, but MJ was absolutely mesmerized...

Standing on a chair to peek out and watch the snow in the backyard

Standing on his tipy-toes in the window sill watching the snow in the front of the house

He was all about wanting to get outside and play in it.  Luckily he settled for homemade chocolate chip pancakes and a visit from our PAT (Parents as Teachers) friend, and then after nap time the snow was gone.  Something tells me I better get this kid ready though with snow pants and boots and I'd better suck it up because I have a feeling he's going to want to play, play, play.  O boy!  Oh, and did I mention that every time we need to go somewhere he says "no coat," "no hat," etc.  Let the fun of wintertime begin!

The Final Stretch

Well, we are 34 1/2 weeks pregnant, and assuming we make it to Dec. 23rd, that means a little over 4 weeks left.  Ahh!  So many emotions run through my body as I even type those words....such love and excitement to meet my little girl, such anxiety over her birth and my hopes and prayers that it all goes so much more smoothly than last time, and pressure to finish up everything around the home and be prepared for the holidays!

Last week we had our 34 week appointment.  We go back at 36 weeks, and then every week from there on out.  Everything was fine at 34 weeks.  It was a quick appointment-blood pressure, urine, weight, heart tones, and belly measurement check and that was about it.  I can tell you that this little girl is still sideways, so it's still looking like a c-section as of now, and she is still quite active!  Her movements are more like thrashes in my opinion.  I just picture her coming out and me swaddling her and her kicking and flailing and having no part of that.  Hahah!  Don't get me wrong, I looooove feeling her move about and that is by far my favorite thing about pregnancy, but she seems much more wild and crazy than I remember MJ feeling!  I've gained 24 pounds so far.  I definitely gained more than that with MJ, but I remember gaining a lot in the end-lots of swelling and water weight.  So far so good in that department, but I know it can happen quickly at the end.  I think not working on my feet all day though and not being in hot, humid FL is making a difference.  I'm not really having any swelling at all yet, am still able to wear my rings (umm, yea-who remembers me losing my wedding ring when pregnant with MJ?!?), all my shoes, etc.  I am SO thankful that it's November and not August, because I am HOT!  I can't even imagine having a summer baby.  Being really pregnant this time of year is good with me, thank you very much! 

At our next appointment, 36 weeks, they will do an ultrasound to check the amniotic fluid levels.  This is due to my previous history and baby being in distress with low fluid levels.  If the level were to be below 5, the baby would have to come out right away.  If there is still plenty of fluid, then it probably won't be checked again at all.  If it's borderline, then they'll check it again the following week.  I am really praying that the fluid levels will be good, baby and I will stay healthy, and she can stay in as long as possible.  BUT, I am feeling like I need to be prepared for her arrival in less than 2 weeks just in case they tell us otherwise at our appointment.  This means packing a bag, finishing her room, lining up child care for MJ, etc. etc. all just as a precaution.  Yes, these are the things I lie awake thinking about!  ;) 

We look forward to sharing the final part of our pregnancy journey with you over the next month and can't wait to welcome our Christmas miracle into the world before long. 

Bathroom Reveal!

When we purchased our home a couple years ago, the main bathroom was by far the part that was most desperately in need of a makeover!  The layout was horrible, the tub and shower were gross, there was very little storage, the vanity was falling apart, and the baseboards/molding truly were molding!  Yuck!  It had gotten to the point that no matter how much bleach and scrubbing was used, I hardly felt comfortable bathing MJ in the tub. 

Well, thank goodness for a handy husband, father-in-law, and an uncle with free ceramic tile!  We never would have been able to afford to pay someone to do this for us, but between Mat's uncle donating us all the free tile we needed, almost a week long visit from my very handy in-laws, and Mat's hard work as well, we now have a brand new bathroom!  I'm talking brand spanking new!  This sucker was demolished right down to the studs!  The only thing that went back into this bathroom was the toilet. 

Don't ask me why I didn't think to take before or during pictures.  :( 

But, here's the important part...the AFTER!  Take my word for it if you hadn't seen our previous bathroom, this one is WAY better!  They totally reconfigured the layout.  The window had to be covered up, but it was worth it.  We were able to move the shower to a much more logical spot, add a linen cabinet, a much bigger vanity and create some open space.  This bathroom is shared by all our bedrooms, so it's important for it to be functional.  It's still small, but functional and so much more organized. 

Helllllo new bathroom!  View from the doorway

New vanity-a nice tall one that I no longer have to stoop over to

A linen cabinet for storage!  woo hoo

Soon in the pic frames will be black and white bath time pics of MJ (and eventually baby girl)

Fun little canisters on top of linen cabinet to store cotton, qtips, and some decor

Towels hanging on hooks and a shelf for storage baskets

Inside our new tub and shower-pretty gray ceramic tile along with some decorative accent we picked out.  Yes, Mark and Bobi tiled this whole shower for us! 

Considering I really had no part in any physical labor, I can't complain too much, but it was a much bigger project than I think anyone had expected.  As always, things seem to be harder than you think they'll be and one problem just seems to lead to another.  It created a way bigger mess than I'd expected, and although the worst is definitely gone, we're still dealing with the clean up.  Holy dust, batman!  I about cried one day when I walked in and saw all the cleaning that awaited me.  I definitely wouldn't taking on a big project when pregnant in the future, but it is what it is, and it's finally done!  Despite a tense week or two, a little bickering, and a whole lot of cleaning, I'm very happy to now have a clean, organized, and functional space.  Who knew a bathroom could make such a big difference! 

We thought we'd remodel the downstairs bathroom before baby girl arrived, too.  What were we thinking?!  Maybe before the third child.  ;)