Well, it is New Year's Eve after all, so I thought I'd blog about my goals and thoughts for the year to come... (as expected most are weight related)
1. Lose 60 pounds by the end of 2009. I will have about 10 months to do this once I can actually get going... so we're talking around 1.5 pounds per weekly average once I start. From where I am currently, this amount lost would put me back to where I was back in Feb before we miscarried. I'm ready to get back there.
2. Go to WW meetings. If I'm cleared to do so, I'm planning to be back at meetings Feb 21st. I am shouting this for the world to see. Someone better be asking me about that one! (Theresa, I'm coming!)
3. Walk to the park at least once a week, once weather allows for such. There is no excuse for not at least going once a week. We have a double stroller now (thank you!!!!) so I can load up both boys.
4. I could joke about other work out related goals, but I would fail at them more than most likely. I would like to at least just have MORE in this category.
5. Starting in March, join an online every day challenge that my best friend is starting up. ... March will be hard for me. A friend is getting married and I'm planning a trip back home for it so it's always more difficult to stick to plan when traveling is involved. But I'm bound to do my best!
6. CLEAR OUT DEBT! We were following Dave Ramsey's plan for a while and we've strayed from it. We need to build back up our 1000 that car repairs have recently dipped into and then start the snowballing again!
7. Be more in the Word. I've really strayed lately. I need to be having a quiet time every day. I need to be having honest prayer time, and I've just flat haven't been. Stop making excuses...
Why is it that "Resolutions" seem to be ultimatums? And why is it that you feel like if you make one you're bound to fail at it? I look at this list, heavy with weight goals and wonder if I'll make or fail them... however the one that is most concerning is the last one on the list... Try and try and try to stay in the Word, to do a daily devotional, to have quiet time, to have prayer time-- why is it hard to keep doing the things that matter most? I take the time to tell my earthly husband I love him every day, so why is it I deny my heavenly one? Sorry to post such a heavy post but that's what's on my heart today... As we make our New Year Resolutions and we set goals for the year to come, are we willing-- am I willing-- to include the Lord in those plans and goals? Am I willing and ready to make more time for Him? ... I hope the answer is an honest yes.
Where the voices get to come out of my head and ramble elsewhere...
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
One week today
Mark is a week old, I thought I'd share some more photos...
I love my Christmas present!
Bright Eyes
Had to throw in a good one of Matthew!
Put him in the swing for the first time today. A week old and swinging!
Daddy with both boys last night... Matthew was driving his train on
Daddy's lap while Mark was having awake time.
I love my Christmas present!
Bright Eyes
Put him in the swing for the first time today. A week old and swinging!
Daddy with both boys last night... Matthew was driving his train onDaddy's lap while Mark was having awake time.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Mark's arrival
This is the long version, just a heads up.
Mark Edward’s Birth and Journey Home…
We arrived at the hospital to register at 6:30 Monday morning on the 22nd of December. Less than a week away from our due date, we were scheduled for an induction due to the estimated size of baby and potential strain on my previous c-section scar in the laboring process.
We had a very slow start even though we arrived so early. After 1000 questions of family health history, blood work, two IV attempts (oh my!), and then the first bag of saline solution going, we were finally underway. My water wasn’t broken until about 8:50 am and it’s from here that I’d consider “in labor”. After my water was broken – and let me tell you—I was laying at a near 45 degree angle upside down for this. Very very weird. After my water was broken, they started the pitocin drip. I started feeling intense contractions within the first hour. However sadly, at noon I was only progressed to a 2. (Some point in there my dad brought up Matthew to see me. They stayed in the waiting room until it was time for his nap and went back home) At four I was still a 2, and at five-thirty still only a 2.
This was very discouraging to my midwife and we discussed what our options were at that time since it was clear I was not progressing, even with the aid of the pitocin. And worse of all, I was having back labor. Each contraction sent me a little further over the edge of insanity as I thought my back was being clawed out… I did ten hours with no pain meds, yet at seven-thirty, I was only barely a 3. At that point I did get a small dose of something (don’t remember what!) in my IV. And painstakingly, I agreed to do the Epidural. I had to at that point, in all that pain, watch the stupid Epidural video I’d refused to watch at the start. (They can’t administer the drug without you watching the video). I have to say I didn’t hear it all as I was crying through the contractions during the video watching. Oh well. Anyhow, the Epidural was done at eight pm. I then fell into a sleepy state of stupor and have no idea what happened in the next four hours. Thank you medicine. I was then checked at a 4 and then a 5 and then BAM! (Hi, I’m Dori…) I started feeling the pains again. Each one was low in my back and worse each time. They tried to give me a second dose of meds but, my Epidural catheter had come out, they’d have to redo it. I mustered up all the strength I could and sat through the torture of the Epidural being re-administered. I remember chanting in my head “do not move. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Do not move.” Again and again so to only be stuck once, instead of what I think was three times the first Epidural try…
After that… WOOOSH! We were off! At one am I was a 6 and then an 8 and then a 9 and then we started practicing pushing. Somewhere in that time span I had to have an oxygen mask on. Baby wasn’t getting enough oxygen and the heart rate was dropping some with the contractions, trying to avoid that exact reason we went into a C-section with Matthew, they upped my oxygen levels and rolled me from one side to the other when necessary. I can say that the mask was the devil himself to me. It was so distracting and so frustrating. As if all that wasn’t enough to complain about, I also started shaking-shivering. I was so so cold after that second IV that my lips were literally shivering the whole time. They’d pile on the blankets and I’d still shiver. Ugh. Anyhow, back to pushing!!!… We practiced for an hour in two thirty minute sets. Jamie went to get my mom (Chuck, Sandy, Kimby and my mom were all in the waiting room and had been all that time). Mom came in at about 3am and took up a place in the corner, and we started pushing. I pushed for 45 mintues. My midwife had to use a vacuum, she says non-aggressively. There was a point when I remember my midwife saying "Kate it's do or die time, we've got to get the baby out or we'll have to go to surgery" (this was after he'd crowned) and buddy, I just didn't feel pain anymore. I just cried to God and repeated Phil 4:13 over and over and over and I pushed out that baby!
Jamie was able to tell me that Mark was here.
(MANNA WAS A BOY!!!)
It was beautiful... My mom was in the room with us and she cut Mark's cord. Jamie says I was smiling through my pain. I did it!
Tuesday morning, December 23rd 3:56 Mark Edward Hobbs was born!
Mark weighed 8.3 and was 19.5 inches. Matthew was 6.13 and 19 inches, so on just a half an inch of length more, there was another 1.6 pounds to look at... Mark is a chub! I love his chin rolls and chubby cheeks and thigh rolls....
Sadly though, we both ended up with a fever at delivery and Mark had to have a culture taken because of it. (More about that later) Also, though he wasn't breathing well, gulping but not taking a full breath, so he had to go straight to the NICU after only about ten minutes from arrival. After only an hour there though, he was released to the regular nursery for observation... and we finally got him back to our room 4 hours later. He was a trooper. I was in and out most of the morning and afternoon and he was so content. He started nursing well right away and knew just what to do!
We thought all was well and were expecting to go home Wed sometime. ... however (remember the fever and culture taken)... Wed morning when the pediatrician came in to let us know about the morning’s assessment, we were told that we couldn't leave until the culture results came back. Ooops. We'd forgotten about that. If it was negative, we'd go home. If it was positive, we'd have to stay. She was expecting that it was probably just a false positive or a contaminant of some kind, and that we’d be fine to go Thursday morning after the results were in, that they’d take 48 hours from the blood draw to be processed. Slightly bummed about not being able to go home FOR Christmas we made the calls to family about the potential of Mark being sick and us waiting to find out more in the morning. I was cleared to go at that point but the doc was waiting to discharge me until we found out the results.
However, later that evening, a nurse came in and said she’d need to get the baby to take him to get an IV. WHAT?!?!? They still don’t know what yet. The conclusive results wouldn’t be ready until tomorrow morning. But, it was positive. Mark was taken from us to start an IV port and he was given antibiotics. He'd have to have them every 12 hours until we knew for sure what it was or until the doc said he didn't need them anymore. A repeat culture was taken and we were again waiting on the results. All we knew was that some kind of bacteria had show up in the first culture, we didn't know what though. After being gone for two hours, he came back to uswith his whole left arm wrapped up and taped so he (or we) couldn’t move the IV port. He came back into the room with his eyes open, looking around. Content as could be. God is so good…
We did well through the night.
Thursday, Christmas day, Mom and Dad and Matthew came to see us in the morning. We had a great visit. We kept waiting and waiting for the doc to come in and tell us about the culture but when she came in, she said the lab still didn’t have the results back. (pout) She promised us that we’d know *something* today. Mom, Dad and Matthew all left so Matthew could take a nap. About 3pm my nurse came in and said that we should know something within the hour. I prepared for the worst and prayed to God Mark was okay. Just before 4pm the charge nurse in the nursery came in our room and said "I'll be taking the baby now" (MY HEART STOPPED) "to get his IV removed. The second culture came back negative" (PRAISE JESUS!) She even said they all thought we'd be staying on and that Mark would be moving to the NICU again which is what we were told could happen... that if it was positive, he'd need additional testing in the NICU... but it wasn't! Praise God for His GREATNESS!!!! What a Christmas present. We willingly and tearfully (of joy) sent Mark down the hall to the nursery yet again. As he was gone, we called the folks and started packing our bags. The nurses came and went to get all the discharge papers in order. We took Mark’s sweet pictures when he came back to us and right at six pm, we were all three in the car heading home to be rejoined with Matthew as a family of four at home on Christmas night.
Merry Christmas!
Mark Edward’s Birth and Journey Home…
We arrived at the hospital to register at 6:30 Monday morning on the 22nd of December. Less than a week away from our due date, we were scheduled for an induction due to the estimated size of baby and potential strain on my previous c-section scar in the laboring process.
We had a very slow start even though we arrived so early. After 1000 questions of family health history, blood work, two IV attempts (oh my!), and then the first bag of saline solution going, we were finally underway. My water wasn’t broken until about 8:50 am and it’s from here that I’d consider “in labor”. After my water was broken – and let me tell you—I was laying at a near 45 degree angle upside down for this. Very very weird. After my water was broken, they started the pitocin drip. I started feeling intense contractions within the first hour. However sadly, at noon I was only progressed to a 2. (Some point in there my dad brought up Matthew to see me. They stayed in the waiting room until it was time for his nap and went back home) At four I was still a 2, and at five-thirty still only a 2.
This was very discouraging to my midwife and we discussed what our options were at that time since it was clear I was not progressing, even with the aid of the pitocin. And worse of all, I was having back labor. Each contraction sent me a little further over the edge of insanity as I thought my back was being clawed out… I did ten hours with no pain meds, yet at seven-thirty, I was only barely a 3. At that point I did get a small dose of something (don’t remember what!) in my IV. And painstakingly, I agreed to do the Epidural. I had to at that point, in all that pain, watch the stupid Epidural video I’d refused to watch at the start. (They can’t administer the drug without you watching the video). I have to say I didn’t hear it all as I was crying through the contractions during the video watching. Oh well. Anyhow, the Epidural was done at eight pm. I then fell into a sleepy state of stupor and have no idea what happened in the next four hours. Thank you medicine. I was then checked at a 4 and then a 5 and then BAM! (Hi, I’m Dori…) I started feeling the pains again. Each one was low in my back and worse each time. They tried to give me a second dose of meds but, my Epidural catheter had come out, they’d have to redo it. I mustered up all the strength I could and sat through the torture of the Epidural being re-administered. I remember chanting in my head “do not move. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Do not move.” Again and again so to only be stuck once, instead of what I think was three times the first Epidural try…
After that… WOOOSH! We were off! At one am I was a 6 and then an 8 and then a 9 and then we started practicing pushing. Somewhere in that time span I had to have an oxygen mask on. Baby wasn’t getting enough oxygen and the heart rate was dropping some with the contractions, trying to avoid that exact reason we went into a C-section with Matthew, they upped my oxygen levels and rolled me from one side to the other when necessary. I can say that the mask was the devil himself to me. It was so distracting and so frustrating. As if all that wasn’t enough to complain about, I also started shaking-shivering. I was so so cold after that second IV that my lips were literally shivering the whole time. They’d pile on the blankets and I’d still shiver. Ugh. Anyhow, back to pushing!!!… We practiced for an hour in two thirty minute sets. Jamie went to get my mom (Chuck, Sandy, Kimby and my mom were all in the waiting room and had been all that time). Mom came in at about 3am and took up a place in the corner, and we started pushing. I pushed for 45 mintues. My midwife had to use a vacuum, she says non-aggressively. There was a point when I remember my midwife saying "Kate it's do or die time, we've got to get the baby out or we'll have to go to surgery" (this was after he'd crowned) and buddy, I just didn't feel pain anymore. I just cried to God and repeated Phil 4:13 over and over and over and I pushed out that baby!
Jamie was able to tell me that Mark was here.
(MANNA WAS A BOY!!!)
It was beautiful... My mom was in the room with us and she cut Mark's cord. Jamie says I was smiling through my pain. I did it!
Tuesday morning, December 23rd 3:56 Mark Edward Hobbs was born!
Mark weighed 8.3 and was 19.5 inches. Matthew was 6.13 and 19 inches, so on just a half an inch of length more, there was another 1.6 pounds to look at... Mark is a chub! I love his chin rolls and chubby cheeks and thigh rolls....
Sadly though, we both ended up with a fever at delivery and Mark had to have a culture taken because of it. (More about that later) Also, though he wasn't breathing well, gulping but not taking a full breath, so he had to go straight to the NICU after only about ten minutes from arrival. After only an hour there though, he was released to the regular nursery for observation... and we finally got him back to our room 4 hours later. He was a trooper. I was in and out most of the morning and afternoon and he was so content. He started nursing well right away and knew just what to do!
We thought all was well and were expecting to go home Wed sometime. ... however (remember the fever and culture taken)... Wed morning when the pediatrician came in to let us know about the morning’s assessment, we were told that we couldn't leave until the culture results came back. Ooops. We'd forgotten about that. If it was negative, we'd go home. If it was positive, we'd have to stay. She was expecting that it was probably just a false positive or a contaminant of some kind, and that we’d be fine to go Thursday morning after the results were in, that they’d take 48 hours from the blood draw to be processed. Slightly bummed about not being able to go home FOR Christmas we made the calls to family about the potential of Mark being sick and us waiting to find out more in the morning. I was cleared to go at that point but the doc was waiting to discharge me until we found out the results.
However, later that evening, a nurse came in and said she’d need to get the baby to take him to get an IV. WHAT?!?!? They still don’t know what yet. The conclusive results wouldn’t be ready until tomorrow morning. But, it was positive. Mark was taken from us to start an IV port and he was given antibiotics. He'd have to have them every 12 hours until we knew for sure what it was or until the doc said he didn't need them anymore. A repeat culture was taken and we were again waiting on the results. All we knew was that some kind of bacteria had show up in the first culture, we didn't know what though. After being gone for two hours, he came back to uswith his whole left arm wrapped up and taped so he (or we) couldn’t move the IV port. He came back into the room with his eyes open, looking around. Content as could be. God is so good…
We did well through the night.
Thursday, Christmas day, Mom and Dad and Matthew came to see us in the morning. We had a great visit. We kept waiting and waiting for the doc to come in and tell us about the culture but when she came in, she said the lab still didn’t have the results back. (pout) She promised us that we’d know *something* today. Mom, Dad and Matthew all left so Matthew could take a nap. About 3pm my nurse came in and said that we should know something within the hour. I prepared for the worst and prayed to God Mark was okay. Just before 4pm the charge nurse in the nursery came in our room and said "I'll be taking the baby now" (MY HEART STOPPED) "to get his IV removed. The second culture came back negative" (PRAISE JESUS!) She even said they all thought we'd be staying on and that Mark would be moving to the NICU again which is what we were told could happen... that if it was positive, he'd need additional testing in the NICU... but it wasn't! Praise God for His GREATNESS!!!! What a Christmas present. We willingly and tearfully (of joy) sent Mark down the hall to the nursery yet again. As he was gone, we called the folks and started packing our bags. The nurses came and went to get all the discharge papers in order. We took Mark’s sweet pictures when he came back to us and right at six pm, we were all three in the car heading home to be rejoined with Matthew as a family of four at home on Christmas night.
Merry Christmas!
Friday, December 26, 2008
Mark pictures
Here's a few pictures to tide you over... story still to come.
8.3 pounds of chub
Daddy holding Mark
Matthew meets Mark
Matthew holds Mark
Mark holding his soothie all on his own
A sleeping baby
8.3 pounds of chub
Daddy holding Mark
Matthew meets Mark
Matthew holds Mark
Mark holding his soothie all on his own
A sleeping baby
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Thank you
Thank you Nic for keeping my blog updated.
We are ALLLLLL home now safe and sound. (for about an hour) And exhausted. I will post a big update tomorrow if at all possible. Thank you ALL for the prayers.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We are ALLLLLL home now safe and sound. (for about an hour) And exhausted. I will post a big update tomorrow if at all possible. Thank you ALL for the prayers.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Baby Mark needs your prayers!
I just talked to Kate. Apparently, when Mark was born, both Kate & Mark had a fever. So they took cultures on them and said that final results wouldn't be available for 48 hours. But the preliminary results came back on Mark today and they were positive. We don't know what they are positive FOR, at this time, but regardless the doctors are jumping all over this. The little guy is having an IV port put in right now & will be getting IV antibiotics every 12 hours until we know more & probably beyond.
Kate is really upset. She's going to be discharged tomorrow and now it looks like Mark won't get to go home with them for Christmas. And she's scared, because she doesn't know what this might mean. I am praying it was either a false positive or a low-grade infection of some kind, because Mark has been doing awesome since he got here -- eating well, resting well, etc....
Anyway, any & all prayers & good thoughts will be much appreciated!
Kate is really upset. She's going to be discharged tomorrow and now it looks like Mark won't get to go home with them for Christmas. And she's scared, because she doesn't know what this might mean. I am praying it was either a false positive or a low-grade infection of some kind, because Mark has been doing awesome since he got here -- eating well, resting well, etc....
Anyway, any & all prayers & good thoughts will be much appreciated!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Manna is here!!!!!!!
Mark Edward arrived just before 4am this morning. He was 8 lbs 3 oz & 19.5 inches long. He is absolutely adorable, I must say. Both Mom and baby are doing just fine. It was a successful VBAC, so I'm guessing they'll be home in time to spend Christmas as a new family of 4!!!!
Monday, December 22, 2008
Labor Update
The update is, there is not much of an update. Kate is still working hard to get the baby out. It has been a long day, but she's a trooper and doing as well as can be expected. Hopefully Manna will decide to make his or her grand debut soon!!!! I'll be posting here when there is news to post.
Baby Manna is on the way!!!!!!
Kate went into the hospital this morning and things looked favorable, so they broke her water at 8:54 am EST. When I talked to her about 40 minutes later, she was having some pretty good, steady contractions!!!!!
Please say some prayers for a smooth, uneventful labor and delivery --- I know Kate will appreciate them and I'll update here later!
Please say some prayers for a smooth, uneventful labor and delivery --- I know Kate will appreciate them and I'll update here later!
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Okay, Okay.
After a couple emails and some sad friends... I've changed my mind!!!
Nic CAN post the baby's gender after all. I know everyone's been anxious to know that! And I know she'll be bursting with excitement to tell anyhow, so there you go.
(and ha about that last post being the "last pg post" huh?)
It's before 6am on Saturday morning. I have seen nearly every half hour, definitely every hour... oy. Can you tell I'm a bit antsy?
Things I've been thinking about:
-hafta clean the toilets (why is this first on my list?)
-hafta finish the laundry
-hafta sweep the playroom (that requires picking UP the playroom)
-hafta iron Jamie's pants ... maybe some shirts before I'm laid up
-the car is packed... did I forget anything? (running over the packed list again and again)
-I still wanted to make another batch of fudge... do I have time for this? LOL
-ALL the Christmas gifts are wrapped, in my pregnant stupor, did I forget anyone?!
-vag or C, vag or C... what will I end up with? I think at this point I'm okay with either. I really am. ... I know I've put a lot of emphasis in desiring to try labor and attempt a "normal" birth but I really DO know that in the end it matters not HOW but THAT the baby comes out. I do know that deep down. In case anyone wasn't sure... *wink*
-Kris-- my sister-- and how she's coming to meet whomever is baby sooner than she could with Matthew!
-how hard it is living far away from family and friends in special times like this.
-how hard it will be for Nic to want to jump a plane but can't this time.
-how hard it was for me not to come swiftly when she had her son.
-how much I'm so grateful for her and her support and love
-how much I am so extremely glad my mom will be here this time--God willing!
-how much I wanted her last time.
-how wonderful my husband is...
-how much my son's life is about to change.
I'm sure there's more but that's just the things that come to mind first...
Nic CAN post the baby's gender after all. I know everyone's been anxious to know that! And I know she'll be bursting with excitement to tell anyhow, so there you go.
(and ha about that last post being the "last pg post" huh?)
It's before 6am on Saturday morning. I have seen nearly every half hour, definitely every hour... oy. Can you tell I'm a bit antsy?
Things I've been thinking about:
-hafta clean the toilets (why is this first on my list?)
-hafta finish the laundry
-hafta sweep the playroom (that requires picking UP the playroom)
-hafta iron Jamie's pants ... maybe some shirts before I'm laid up
-the car is packed... did I forget anything? (running over the packed list again and again)
-I still wanted to make another batch of fudge... do I have time for this? LOL
-ALL the Christmas gifts are wrapped, in my pregnant stupor, did I forget anyone?!
-vag or C, vag or C... what will I end up with? I think at this point I'm okay with either. I really am. ... I know I've put a lot of emphasis in desiring to try labor and attempt a "normal" birth but I really DO know that in the end it matters not HOW but THAT the baby comes out. I do know that deep down. In case anyone wasn't sure... *wink*
-Kris-- my sister-- and how she's coming to meet whomever is baby sooner than she could with Matthew!
-how hard it is living far away from family and friends in special times like this.
-how hard it will be for Nic to want to jump a plane but can't this time.
-how hard it was for me not to come swiftly when she had her son.
-how much I'm so grateful for her and her support and love
-how much I am so extremely glad my mom will be here this time--God willing!
-how much I wanted her last time.
-how wonderful my husband is...
-how much my son's life is about to change.
I'm sure there's more but that's just the things that come to mind first...
Friday, December 19, 2008
update
This very well could be the last pg update...
My MW tried to encourage some happenings today (I'll leave the TMI out of this... haha) so we're hoping that I go into labor naturally over the weekend. If not I'll either be checked and/or induced first thing Monday morning.
As things progress, I'm sure there will be updates.
If you're a regular reader-- Nic (my best friend) will be posting on here in my stead while I'm at the hospital updating. I've asked her to NOT reveal the sex. I'll try to get back on as soon as possible to give the big reveal!
Cheers!
My MW tried to encourage some happenings today (I'll leave the TMI out of this... haha) so we're hoping that I go into labor naturally over the weekend. If not I'll either be checked and/or induced first thing Monday morning.
As things progress, I'm sure there will be updates.
If you're a regular reader-- Nic (my best friend) will be posting on here in my stead while I'm at the hospital updating. I've asked her to NOT reveal the sex. I'll try to get back on as soon as possible to give the big reveal!
Cheers!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Cake balls final chapter
Hot dog! Those things are good. Jamie and I each had one after dinner. He's going to take some with him to work tomorrow so that I don't eat the rest on my own!!! SUCCESS!
Cake Balls continued...
Allow me to complete my experience with the final steps...
7. Roll in/dip in/dunk in melted chocolate and cool on wax paper and let harden and then refreeze.
*this was a bit of an issue. I felt like I was wasting chocolate...I ended up trying to dunk them, and with two spoons trying to remove access choc but for the most part under each ball is like a glob of pooled choc. Now, if this also hardens then maybe it's fine, but I'm not sure yet. The reaction from others who've done it is that this is normal.
*Also, I will say that 12 oz of choc chips melted down (I did a min in the microwave, stir, and another min in the microwave to make the melted choc) wasn't enough. I've heard diff reports of 16 oz needed or 24 oz needed. So make sure you have at least 16 oz if you're using choc chips.
8. Store in either fridge or freezer. Enjoy.
*Well currently they are still "hardening" on the parchment paper (I was out of wax) but the next step will be to freeze. :)
And that's my baking creations for today.
Thankfully my son is taking a nice long nap!
7. Roll in/dip in/dunk in melted chocolate and cool on wax paper and let harden and then refreeze.
*this was a bit of an issue. I felt like I was wasting chocolate...I ended up trying to dunk them, and with two spoons trying to remove access choc but for the most part under each ball is like a glob of pooled choc. Now, if this also hardens then maybe it's fine, but I'm not sure yet. The reaction from others who've done it is that this is normal.
*Also, I will say that 12 oz of choc chips melted down (I did a min in the microwave, stir, and another min in the microwave to make the melted choc) wasn't enough. I've heard diff reports of 16 oz needed or 24 oz needed. So make sure you have at least 16 oz if you're using choc chips.
8. Store in either fridge or freezer. Enjoy.
*Well currently they are still "hardening" on the parchment paper (I was out of wax) but the next step will be to freeze. :)
And that's my baking creations for today.
Thankfully my son is taking a nice long nap!
Cake Balls
On a message board I frequent, there has been a phenomenon of late. The Cake Balls. Every day for the past few, someone is bringing it up. There are questions after questions about this way or that way or can I do it like this or how do you do this part... and I will admit, I asked many a question myself about them. I was very intrigued. Well last night I did the first major part in making my own Cake Balls. I will say that unfinished as they are, they are SOOO GOOOOOD! Oh my word! So, I thought I'd share on here all that I know about the
Cake Balls...
Basic instructions are this:
Bake cake.
Cool.
Crumble cake, add frosting, mix well.
Make balls.
Freeze.
Dip.
Freeze again.
Allow me to break it down for you...
1. Bake a cake (any cake--as directed on box)
*easy enough
2. Let cake cool about 30 minutes
*torture while it smells so good and you want a piece
3. Take a fork and rake it through the cooled cake
*Jamie and I each had a fork and cake was a little bit flying... this was fun!
4. Mix a (small) can of frosting into your cake crumbles
*We transferred crumbles to a large bowl and added in frosting... at this point Jamie says "just so you know there is ZERO chance of me sticking my hands in there" He ended up mixing it well with a metal spoon
5. Scoop into "tablespoon size" (bite size) balls.
*Messy. Very Messy. I don't have a melon baller or a cookie scooper so I just used a normal table spoon and my hands to form the balls. Messy. Fun, but messy.
Supposed to end up with 50-60 balls. I had 46, so not bad.
6. Then cover and freeze. (let freeze at least 4 hours)
*done.
This is where I am currently, (we did that much last night)...
but the next steps are:
7. Roll in/dip in/dunk in melted chocolate and cool on wax paper and let harden and then refreeze.
8. Store in either fridge or freezer. Enjoy.
I'll have to let you know how the dipping part goes. I will say it's the part I'm most nervous about. But I will also say... undipped, they are very very good. Dangerously good. *wink wink*
Cake Balls...
Basic instructions are this:
Bake cake.
Cool.
Crumble cake, add frosting, mix well.
Make balls.
Freeze.
Dip.
Freeze again.
Allow me to break it down for you...
1. Bake a cake (any cake--as directed on box)
*easy enough
2. Let cake cool about 30 minutes
*torture while it smells so good and you want a piece
3. Take a fork and rake it through the cooled cake
*Jamie and I each had a fork and cake was a little bit flying... this was fun!
4. Mix a (small) can of frosting into your cake crumbles
*We transferred crumbles to a large bowl and added in frosting... at this point Jamie says "just so you know there is ZERO chance of me sticking my hands in there" He ended up mixing it well with a metal spoon
5. Scoop into "tablespoon size" (bite size) balls.
*Messy. Very Messy. I don't have a melon baller or a cookie scooper so I just used a normal table spoon and my hands to form the balls. Messy. Fun, but messy.
Supposed to end up with 50-60 balls. I had 46, so not bad.
6. Then cover and freeze. (let freeze at least 4 hours)
*done.
This is where I am currently, (we did that much last night)...
but the next steps are:
7. Roll in/dip in/dunk in melted chocolate and cool on wax paper and let harden and then refreeze.
8. Store in either fridge or freezer. Enjoy.
I'll have to let you know how the dipping part goes. I will say it's the part I'm most nervous about. But I will also say... undipped, they are very very good. Dangerously good. *wink wink*
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
breathing treatment update
I'm amazed. I really am. Matthew has done marvelously each time so far now. We did another one this morning and another after lunch, before nap time and he just takes it like a pro. He gets a little annoyed with the mask part ON him before it's time to be done, but we just take off and he'll hold it there in front of his face. I keep telling him to take "another big one" and he'll breathe really big. I'm so proud of him. I was seriously prepared for a battling disaster yesterday and God is so good and has given Matthew complete calmness about this. Thank you to all who are praying. I can already tell a difference in his wheezing and cough!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
breathing treatment
A different kind of update:
So after Matthew coughing from Saturday on, and last night being awful with a wake up at 4:30 and him crying for near 20 minutes while coughing, I took him into the doctor today. We come home with a machine to do breathing treatments. He has to have 3 treatments every day for the next couple days. Oh my stars. In addition, he also has an antibiotic and a cough syrup to be taken daily....
We completed the first breathing treatment just a bit ago and oh my! He did SUCH a good job. We talked about the mask and how he was like a solider and he put on that mask and breathed in and out and was so dang good about it. I wanted to cry because he did so much better than the horror I'd concocted in my head as to how it was going to go. Jamie sat on one side of him and I on the other, on the couch and he just sat there. He got a little annoyed with it before it was finished, but I think it was a great first try!
My baby boy is so big.
Anyhow, please pray that he'll be well before our baby Manna comes. He has to be on the breathing treatments for at least three days and he has 10 days of meds to complete. Thank you for your prayers.
So after Matthew coughing from Saturday on, and last night being awful with a wake up at 4:30 and him crying for near 20 minutes while coughing, I took him into the doctor today. We come home with a machine to do breathing treatments. He has to have 3 treatments every day for the next couple days. Oh my stars. In addition, he also has an antibiotic and a cough syrup to be taken daily....
We completed the first breathing treatment just a bit ago and oh my! He did SUCH a good job. We talked about the mask and how he was like a solider and he put on that mask and breathed in and out and was so dang good about it. I wanted to cry because he did so much better than the horror I'd concocted in my head as to how it was going to go. Jamie sat on one side of him and I on the other, on the couch and he just sat there. He got a little annoyed with it before it was finished, but I think it was a great first try!
My baby boy is so big.
Anyhow, please pray that he'll be well before our baby Manna comes. He has to be on the breathing treatments for at least three days and he has 10 days of meds to complete. Thank you for your prayers.
Monday, December 15, 2008
quick update
WOOOOOOOT!!!
So this will be clearly much more positive than last week's update. I had a check up this morning and here are the basics for you: I was "soft" (not sure exactly what that means, but MW was pleased), and a ONE!!!! and she felt the head!!! (oh my!) and I've dropped and now measuring 40 weeks, not 43! And this is all GOOOOOOD NEWS! I'm so pleased. I'm going back on Friday to see if there is any more progress. If she can, she's going to see if she can stir up labor to happen naturally. If it works, we're looking at potential labor this weekend. If it doesn't, I'll go back next week and see where we are! COME ON BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So this will be clearly much more positive than last week's update. I had a check up this morning and here are the basics for you: I was "soft" (not sure exactly what that means, but MW was pleased), and a ONE!!!! and she felt the head!!! (oh my!) and I've dropped and now measuring 40 weeks, not 43! And this is all GOOOOOOD NEWS! I'm so pleased. I'm going back on Friday to see if there is any more progress. If she can, she's going to see if she can stir up labor to happen naturally. If it works, we're looking at potential labor this weekend. If it doesn't, I'll go back next week and see where we are! COME ON BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Pictures
A sweet friend took some pictures of us 2 weeks ago (at 36 weeks). I'm so pleased with how they came out. She did such an amazing job. I just got the CD from her today with more than 130 pictures on it. (If you'd like to view more than just these, please let me know via email). It's going to be hard to decide what I want to print, but I wanted to share a few on here. Thank you, Meg.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
quote.
A friend sent me some words of wisdom this morning. I'm going to just copy and paste a portion of her email ...
~*~*~
It is in God's hands and he will "deliver" you through all of this. I read a quote this morning that may help..."When you relinquish the desire to control your future; you obtain happiness".
~*~*~
I will say that after nachos and muffins and even more tears last night, I think I cried all my woes away. I'm still somewhat down this morning, but LIFE goes on. And GOD IS IN CONTROL.
Thank you all dear friends.
~*~*~
It is in God's hands and he will "deliver" you through all of this. I read a quote this morning that may help..."When you relinquish the desire to control your future; you obtain happiness".
~*~*~
I will say that after nachos and muffins and even more tears last night, I think I cried all my woes away. I'm still somewhat down this morning, but LIFE goes on. And GOD IS IN CONTROL.
Thank you all dear friends.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
appt update (the emotional version)
So I know people are awaiting the update from today's appt and frankly I just don't want to discuss it (though I'm about to)... *pout* I'm really fragile right now and don't want any "oh it will be alright" "everything will work out" comments. I know that. I know the point of having a baby is to HAVE a baby-- regardless of how it gets had, but... as mentioned I just feel fragile. I feel very defeated and I've been on and off crying since about 2:30. If someone could please shut the faucet off, I'd gladly stop the waterworks.
Good news: 1. the baby is fine. There doesn't seem to be anything that is concerning my MW about the kidney functions right now, which was our biggest concern with the previous ultrasound results. They still MAY get tested AFTER delivery, but for now, all in the clear. 2. My fluid levels are lower than where they were the previous u/s and are well within the normal range now. 3. I saw my MW today and not someone else! (last week I saw a fill in--bah).
Eh news: The baby is currently measuring at 8 pounds 9 ounces according to the u/s tech's measurements. NOW-- I do know that they can't be completly accurate. It's possible that this number could be plus or minus up to TWO pounds... so we're looking at a baby anywhere from 7-11 pounds right now, give or take. OR it could be right on at 8.9 ...
Bad news: They wont let me try to push out anything over 10 pounds... So, if I'm measuring 8.9 today, by Monday that could be 9, by Friday next week that could be 9.5, by Monday the following week that could be 10, by Christmas.... you get the point. BUT they also wont induce me if I'm not doing SOMETHING in the dialation department. For the past three appts now, it's only been a finger tip. If I can't get to a one, she can't break my water for me, and thus, I can't induce...
There's no reason to say I will or wont go into labor on my own, expect with Matthew he was induced 4 days before his due date, and I didn't go into labor... and he didn't react well to the induction. The risks are starting to outweigh the other, and I'm just wounded. I really want to prove (to myself) I can do this. That I can birth a child. That my body was designed and made perfectly -- but that's a really horrible thing to say. My mom had both my sister and me by c-section. Do I think any less of her body? no. Any less of her ability to still be a perfectly made woman? no. ...So why would I think such of myself??? I HAVE NO IDEA--- but it's tearing me up.
I just want the chance to try.
I just want the ability to say I tried.
I don't want another section. I don't want to be cut open. I don't want to be recovering for 6-8 weeks after a section-- WITH a toddler at home. I don't want to go through all the above without my family here. I don't want... *groan*
I'm such a whiner! UGH! I hate myself for feeling like this, I really do. But I just can't stop it.
As I sit here and new tears are starting to fall, Jamie just said to me "please stop making yourself cry." My poor husband. I love him so much. I truly don't know how he deals with me. And I'm so blessed by him. by his love. by his support-- the strong silent type, but still support it is. I'm so blessed by his devotion and his tenderness. I love him for keeping me focused on the prize, not on the journey.
I also love my Nic. Thankyou, friend for being the voice of sanity (and not reason) when I needed you today.
I know God is in control. I know that the ultimate goal is a HEALTHY baby. The means is not as important as the ends in this case. But my heart and my brain aren't on the same channel today.
So.
All that said to say... Nothing is happening still. Yes, I'm still pregnant. No, I'm not carrying twins... .YES I AM SURE (Ugh, if one more person asks me that, I may just start bawling in front of them) Yes, the baby is big. No I don't know when we're going go have it. NO I STILL HAVEN'T HAD IT. (no, I still don't know what it is!) ...
My next appt is Monday morning. PRAYING for ANY kind of progression.
Good news: 1. the baby is fine. There doesn't seem to be anything that is concerning my MW about the kidney functions right now, which was our biggest concern with the previous ultrasound results. They still MAY get tested AFTER delivery, but for now, all in the clear. 2. My fluid levels are lower than where they were the previous u/s and are well within the normal range now. 3. I saw my MW today and not someone else! (last week I saw a fill in--bah).
Eh news: The baby is currently measuring at 8 pounds 9 ounces according to the u/s tech's measurements. NOW-- I do know that they can't be completly accurate. It's possible that this number could be plus or minus up to TWO pounds... so we're looking at a baby anywhere from 7-11 pounds right now, give or take. OR it could be right on at 8.9 ...
Bad news: They wont let me try to push out anything over 10 pounds... So, if I'm measuring 8.9 today, by Monday that could be 9, by Friday next week that could be 9.5, by Monday the following week that could be 10, by Christmas.... you get the point. BUT they also wont induce me if I'm not doing SOMETHING in the dialation department. For the past three appts now, it's only been a finger tip. If I can't get to a one, she can't break my water for me, and thus, I can't induce...
There's no reason to say I will or wont go into labor on my own, expect with Matthew he was induced 4 days before his due date, and I didn't go into labor... and he didn't react well to the induction. The risks are starting to outweigh the other, and I'm just wounded. I really want to prove (to myself) I can do this. That I can birth a child. That my body was designed and made perfectly -- but that's a really horrible thing to say. My mom had both my sister and me by c-section. Do I think any less of her body? no. Any less of her ability to still be a perfectly made woman? no. ...So why would I think such of myself??? I HAVE NO IDEA--- but it's tearing me up.
I just want the chance to try.
I just want the ability to say I tried.
I don't want another section. I don't want to be cut open. I don't want to be recovering for 6-8 weeks after a section-- WITH a toddler at home. I don't want to go through all the above without my family here. I don't want... *groan*
I'm such a whiner! UGH! I hate myself for feeling like this, I really do. But I just can't stop it.
As I sit here and new tears are starting to fall, Jamie just said to me "please stop making yourself cry." My poor husband. I love him so much. I truly don't know how he deals with me. And I'm so blessed by him. by his love. by his support-- the strong silent type, but still support it is. I'm so blessed by his devotion and his tenderness. I love him for keeping me focused on the prize, not on the journey.
I also love my Nic. Thankyou, friend for being the voice of sanity (and not reason) when I needed you today.
I know God is in control. I know that the ultimate goal is a HEALTHY baby. The means is not as important as the ends in this case. But my heart and my brain aren't on the same channel today.
So.
All that said to say... Nothing is happening still. Yes, I'm still pregnant. No, I'm not carrying twins... .YES I AM SURE (Ugh, if one more person asks me that, I may just start bawling in front of them) Yes, the baby is big. No I don't know when we're going go have it. NO I STILL HAVEN'T HAD IT. (no, I still don't know what it is!) ...
My next appt is Monday morning. PRAYING for ANY kind of progression.
Friday, December 5, 2008
photo update
Well folks, this is what 43 weeks looks like, though I'm sure I'm only 36... (and yes, that's one of Jamie's Tech shirts, very comfy)
Thursday, December 4, 2008
43 weeks... and counting
Last week recap I was 35 weeks and 3 days and measuring at 40 weeks...
So today I'm 36 weeks and 4 days... and I'm measuring 43 weeks. WHAT?! ... geeeez, How can I possibly get any further out there in the front? In other measuring news, I actually LOST a pound this week, so explain that. HAHA!
We scheduled an u/s for next week on Wed. We'll investigate at that point if it's still fluid levels that are high and taking up so much room or if we're looking at a big baby in there. We'll also decide what steps to take from that point forward as my belly continues to expand and the due date draws nearer.
I feel like crud today, but I will have Jamie take an update picture tomorrow so you can see what the measuring 43 weeks out belly looks like (someone hold me). I can't even roll over in bed anymore. Jamie has to help push or pull me from one side to the other. It's awful. I can't seem to get the leverage to hoist the belly from side to side.
In hand news-- I'm back to wearing my right brace now. I dropped my pen trying to write my Christmas cards last night, dropped my spoon at breakfast this morning so it's back to the braces we go. : ( I made it so far, I can't really complain. At least this time it will be for 3 weeks or so, not 3 months!
We'll see what next week holds...
So today I'm 36 weeks and 4 days... and I'm measuring 43 weeks. WHAT?! ... geeeez, How can I possibly get any further out there in the front? In other measuring news, I actually LOST a pound this week, so explain that. HAHA!
We scheduled an u/s for next week on Wed. We'll investigate at that point if it's still fluid levels that are high and taking up so much room or if we're looking at a big baby in there. We'll also decide what steps to take from that point forward as my belly continues to expand and the due date draws nearer.
I feel like crud today, but I will have Jamie take an update picture tomorrow so you can see what the measuring 43 weeks out belly looks like (someone hold me). I can't even roll over in bed anymore. Jamie has to help push or pull me from one side to the other. It's awful. I can't seem to get the leverage to hoist the belly from side to side.
In hand news-- I'm back to wearing my right brace now. I dropped my pen trying to write my Christmas cards last night, dropped my spoon at breakfast this morning so it's back to the braces we go. : ( I made it so far, I can't really complain. At least this time it will be for 3 weeks or so, not 3 months!
We'll see what next week holds...
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Rings (take two)
Well I'm glad to have made it this far, but my rings are now off again. I'm so very pleased that they were still on for my belly pictures on Sunday. However yesterday morning, I woke up with my right hand tingling and had to pry off my mom's ring from that hand. This morning about 4:30 I woke up with my left hand in pain, so I pulled off my wedding rings and moved them from my ring finger to my pinky. I'm guessing I'll be wearing them on a necklace by the end of the day. 36 weeks to still have my rings on is a good run I guess. I'm kind of sad I couldn't get to the end, but I'm so pleased at not having them off as long as they were off with Matthew.
Monday, December 1, 2008
December!!!
***
Oh my, it's December!!! Only 27 more days until the due date! ACK!
I go back for another appt Thursday and we'll see what my MW says.
But hopefully I'm having a baby THIS MONTH!
***
Oh my, it's December!!! Only 27 more days until the due date! ACK!
I go back for another appt Thursday and we'll see what my MW says.
But hopefully I'm having a baby THIS MONTH!
***
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Thanksgiving
I sit here with tears in my eyes...
Sometimes it is hard to be thankful when you feel slighted or hurt or lonely or without or lost or afraid or or or...
I feel very isolated right now. I have a great need to be with my mom, even though she was just here last week. I'm so thankful for her and for our friendship and for our relationship in general-- and from where it has come. I'm so thankful for her love and her companionship. There are days when I talk to know one else outside the house but her. There are days when I can only call her and share with her my feelings. There are days when I know she needs me as much as I need her. I love you mom.
But, I am thankful...
-for my God who loves me just because of who He is.
-for my husband who loves me more than I deserve.
-for my son, my sweet Matthew. I love his kisses and snuggles.
-for my unborn Manna, whom I can't wait to meet soon.
-for my lost child who is in Heaven with Jesus waiting for me.
-for friends who understand that kind of loss
-for the family that is close by, Jamie's parents and siblings.
-for all the family that is far, but still close in my heart.
-for Jamie's job and the provision God continues.
-for Jamie's health and his ability to hold his job.
-for the ability to stay at home and raise our children
-for the ability to have Jamie's children
-for snow-- I miss the snow...
-for memories made
-for life.
-for love.
-for Jesus Christ above all else.
Sometimes it is hard to be thankful when you feel slighted or hurt or lonely or without or lost or afraid or or or...
I feel very isolated right now. I have a great need to be with my mom, even though she was just here last week. I'm so thankful for her and for our friendship and for our relationship in general-- and from where it has come. I'm so thankful for her love and her companionship. There are days when I talk to know one else outside the house but her. There are days when I can only call her and share with her my feelings. There are days when I know she needs me as much as I need her. I love you mom.
But, I am thankful...
-for my God who loves me just because of who He is.
-for my husband who loves me more than I deserve.
-for my son, my sweet Matthew. I love his kisses and snuggles.
-for my unborn Manna, whom I can't wait to meet soon.
-for my lost child who is in Heaven with Jesus waiting for me.
-for friends who understand that kind of loss
-for the family that is close by, Jamie's parents and siblings.
-for all the family that is far, but still close in my heart.
-for Jamie's job and the provision God continues.
-for Jamie's health and his ability to hold his job.
-for the ability to stay at home and raise our children
-for the ability to have Jamie's children
-for snow-- I miss the snow...
-for memories made
-for life.
-for love.
-for Jesus Christ above all else.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
appt update
I had an appt today ... and oh my stars, I'm measuring out even further. What do you do if you measure PAST 40 weeks? Today I'm at 35 weeks and measuring 40. My MW even measured twice to be sure. She felt around on the outside and everything seems okay. (oops! I just realized that I didn't ask if we were heading down yet or not, but I guess if I wasn't she'd have told me) -- anyhow, I'll start going every week now for her to keep tabs on the growth. We'll do an u/s either next time or in two weeks to see the fluid levels and to get an estimate on the weight of baby. It's getting close to the end!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Christmas Tree
My mom was here for the week and I loved her being here helping us. In that help, she aided Jamie in getting the Christmas boxes out of the attic and we went ahead and "put up" Christmas with her here (even though it's before Thanksgiving. oh well!) So here's a little taste of Christmas so far at the Hobbs' house:
Matthew: "What is THAT?!"
Momma: "It's a big box. It holds our Christmas tree. Do you want to help momma with the Christmas tree?"
Matthew: "Right!"
So, Matthew helped throw the branches into piles and helped me "fluff" each branch and hand it to Daddy. He helped inspect Daddy's work of putting the pole up before we could add the branches. "That's a tall tower!" he said at the empty pole. :) It was so fun watching him be a part of helping get it all together. And every morning so far he's ran to the playroom and has been so happy that his Christmas tree is still there! Today this was his response, when seeing it and I flicked the lights on: "Momma! It's the Chris-sas Tree! It is!" Like, you never know, it might have walked off in the middle of the night. Good thing it's still standing where we left it. haha.
So question-- how do you explain to him AFTER Christmas is over that we have to put it BACK in the box??
Matthew: "What is THAT?!"
Momma: "It's a big box. It holds our Christmas tree. Do you want to help momma with the Christmas tree?"
Matthew: "Right!"
So, Matthew helped throw the branches into piles and helped me "fluff" each branch and hand it to Daddy. He helped inspect Daddy's work of putting the pole up before we could add the branches. "That's a tall tower!" he said at the empty pole. :) It was so fun watching him be a part of helping get it all together. And every morning so far he's ran to the playroom and has been so happy that his Christmas tree is still there! Today this was his response, when seeing it and I flicked the lights on: "Momma! It's the Chris-sas Tree! It is!" Like, you never know, it might have walked off in the middle of the night. Good thing it's still standing where we left it. haha.
So question-- how do you explain to him AFTER Christmas is over that we have to put it BACK in the box??
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
One More
for the "general public" posting the other day...
So today, cashier at walmart (why can't these gals just shut their traps?!) goes "So you got two in there?" I say, "no just one" (oh and this is after she asked what I was having and we did that song and dance) and she goes "oh my, well, you're huge"
THANKS.
THANKS A LOT.
Seriously, I took the cart handle and pushed it away without comment, leaving my mom standing there to pay her. LOL ! UGH!
So today, cashier at walmart (why can't these gals just shut their traps?!) goes "So you got two in there?" I say, "no just one" (oh and this is after she asked what I was having and we did that song and dance) and she goes "oh my, well, you're huge"
THANKS.
THANKS A LOT.
Seriously, I took the cart handle and pushed it away without comment, leaving my mom standing there to pay her. LOL ! UGH!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
The General Public
My word. .... Yes. I know I'm pregnant. Thank you.
Couple stupid "here's your sign" stories from the general public from this weekend:
1. Dude at gas station has to help me cuz the machine is whacked out and wouldn't take my rewards card. Anyhow, he goes "Woah, girl, you're really pregnant, aren't you?" ...um... here's your sign? I replied "Yes, sir. I am." But I wanted to scream at him... "No. I thought I'd just swallow a freaking watermelon this morning and see what it did to me." Duh.
2. Walmart checker goes "So it's a girl, right?" I'm like "I donno" she goes, "Oh, so it's a boy." ...here's your sign?? ... I say "no, I don't know. I don't know either way" She looked at me like I'm nuts and said "well it's a baby right?" ... No... no, it's an alien, a bowling ball, a head of lettuce, YES it's a baby. I just don't know what the sex is you moron. I just stared at her and said "Yup, it sure is." ...Here's your second sign???
3. Lady today passing by said "Aww, you're really out there" (thanks) "So, what are you having?" I said, "um, a baby, we don't know yet who it is" She said, "oh you don't have your names picked out or you aren't sharing them?" I said, "no, we have names, I just don't know which one yet" She goes, "oh so what is it?" ... um.... I'm like "I donno" She says (and a little frusterated I think) "You just don't know yet?" (with her eyebrows raised at me like I'm lying as she takes inventory of how far out my tummy is...) I say, "No, we aren't finding out. I don't want to know" (now my own frustration starting to kick in. Give it up lady) she simply says, "Oh well that's foolish. Why wouldn't you want to know? How can you know what to name it?" ... well, I don't, which is why I have a name either way you flapjack!... and I simply said "well we have two options, one either way." And she says "well I'd make them tell you at your next appt." ....did you miss the part where I said I didn't want to know?!?!!? UGH!
WHY is it the general public's need to know what/who is in MY tummy? And why can't people just accept it when I tell them I don't know. That I don't want to know. That I'm anxiously awaiting the greatest gift ever given and I don't want to peak. You'd think after you say "I don't know" that would be enough, but my word, people need reasons.
How can you possibly be measuring 38 weeks pregnant, sticking out as far as China and NOT know the sex of the ONE (I had two "it's twins right?" comments this weekend) baby in your belly?!? ... Becuase I'm the momma and I can. ...
I remember this being an issue when I was pg with Matthew but seriously, the comments get better and better...
Couple stupid "here's your sign" stories from the general public from this weekend:
1. Dude at gas station has to help me cuz the machine is whacked out and wouldn't take my rewards card. Anyhow, he goes "Woah, girl, you're really pregnant, aren't you?" ...um... here's your sign? I replied "Yes, sir. I am." But I wanted to scream at him... "No. I thought I'd just swallow a freaking watermelon this morning and see what it did to me." Duh.
2. Walmart checker goes "So it's a girl, right?" I'm like "I donno" she goes, "Oh, so it's a boy." ...here's your sign?? ... I say "no, I don't know. I don't know either way" She looked at me like I'm nuts and said "well it's a baby right?" ... No... no, it's an alien, a bowling ball, a head of lettuce, YES it's a baby. I just don't know what the sex is you moron. I just stared at her and said "Yup, it sure is." ...Here's your second sign???
3. Lady today passing by said "Aww, you're really out there" (thanks) "So, what are you having?" I said, "um, a baby, we don't know yet who it is" She said, "oh you don't have your names picked out or you aren't sharing them?" I said, "no, we have names, I just don't know which one yet" She goes, "oh so what is it?" ... um.... I'm like "I donno" She says (and a little frusterated I think) "You just don't know yet?" (with her eyebrows raised at me like I'm lying as she takes inventory of how far out my tummy is...) I say, "No, we aren't finding out. I don't want to know" (now my own frustration starting to kick in. Give it up lady) she simply says, "Oh well that's foolish. Why wouldn't you want to know? How can you know what to name it?" ... well, I don't, which is why I have a name either way you flapjack!... and I simply said "well we have two options, one either way." And she says "well I'd make them tell you at your next appt." ....did you miss the part where I said I didn't want to know?!?!!? UGH!
WHY is it the general public's need to know what/who is in MY tummy? And why can't people just accept it when I tell them I don't know. That I don't want to know. That I'm anxiously awaiting the greatest gift ever given and I don't want to peak. You'd think after you say "I don't know" that would be enough, but my word, people need reasons.
How can you possibly be measuring 38 weeks pregnant, sticking out as far as China and NOT know the sex of the ONE (I had two "it's twins right?" comments this weekend) baby in your belly?!? ... Becuase I'm the momma and I can. ...
I remember this being an issue when I was pg with Matthew but seriously, the comments get better and better...
Friday, November 14, 2008
Appt update
Just a quick update to say we're still growing. Belly is now measuring 2 more weeks ahead. (I really don't think I can measure any further out--it is just all belly now)! Blood pressure fine, baby's heart rate is fine and we go back in two weeks to do the same. Two more weeks after that, we'll do another u/s to double check the fluid levels and see the baby's size. I am so anxious to see it again.
Sorry for the short note, but there really isn't anything lengthy to comment on, so I wont keep rambling. Cheers.
Sorry for the short note, but there really isn't anything lengthy to comment on, so I wont keep rambling. Cheers.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Yet another belly shot
It's been a month since the last belly picture. If you wanna see the difference -- look for Oct 5th in the archives. We're having a class party tonight with our Sunday School class, so I actually look half decent instead of like the walking dead. It's crazy to think we're under 50 days now. Less than two months to go. We have another Ob check up appt this coming Friday. I'm sure I'll update after that.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Story time
There are things in this world that continue to take my breath away. Story time with Daddy is one of those things. I love watching my men interact with each other. When Jamie has such little precious time with his son, it's so very neat to step back and watch them enjoy each other. When you tally up the time that daddies aren't working and babies aren't sleeping, it isn't a lot of time together. I wish you could hear Matthew's sweet voice, "Read it my Daddy, read it." How can a daddy argue with that?
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Pony
Matthew on the pony ready to ride!
We had to stop a few times, the guide wanted both of Matthew's hands on the saddle horn and Matthew wanted to hold on to Daddy!Matthew got to ride a pony last night at a fall festival we went to. He loved it. We waited in line for over a half hour and for the most part he didn't complain or get antsy; he was ready and willing to ride a pony. Jamie thinks I had a better time with Matthew though just watching him and getting excited about him being excited. We don't have much time left with just Matthew and I'm glad to do special things with him right now. Also, we decorated a cookie. Ha ha, so here's our masterpiece before Mommy ate it. Matthew enjoyed picking the sprinkles off to eat those, but he ended up just eating a plain cookie without any icing.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Rings
I took this picture myself so it may seem a little funny, but I am so amazed that I still have my rings on my finger. I'm at 31 weeks now and when I was pregnant with Matthew I had to have Jamie pry them off long before 30 weeks. And I do mean pry them off, I was so afraid we were going to have to have them cut off, but he got them. So, there you go. There's the belly and the rings. I can't believe it! I hope I can keep them on the whole time this time. Wouldn't that be wonderful!?
Monday, October 27, 2008
OB check
*****T.M.I. DISCLAIMER*****
Okay I had my check up this morning and right now we're okay. I have a bladder infection still and my mw says that it's not uncommon to bleed or spot with that (oh the joys) so she wants to get this infection cleared up and then see if I'm still spotting or bleeding after that. She was really calm about it though so that was helpful. (This was part of my problem sleeping last night/this morning because I was doing all the "what if"s about the spotting)...
Since I was bleeding, she did an internal check to make sure... and we're closed up tight! She said before she went in that I'd better not be dilated, and I wasn't. So that's good. She said the cervix is soft but it's closed up, the baby was high, so she's pleased with that. Also I'm not measuring any further out than I was last time (so even though I'm at 31 weeks, I'm measuring 34 but since that was what I was measuring at 28 she's not concerned of any increased fluids this time!)
SOOOO, I'll go back in two weeks assuming nothing else happens between then and now. AND she wants to do another u/s regardless at 37 weeks to determine size and double check on the fluid levels again.
Thanks all.
Okay I had my check up this morning and right now we're okay. I have a bladder infection still and my mw says that it's not uncommon to bleed or spot with that (oh the joys) so she wants to get this infection cleared up and then see if I'm still spotting or bleeding after that. She was really calm about it though so that was helpful. (This was part of my problem sleeping last night/this morning because I was doing all the "what if"s about the spotting)...
Since I was bleeding, she did an internal check to make sure... and we're closed up tight! She said before she went in that I'd better not be dilated, and I wasn't. So that's good. She said the cervix is soft but it's closed up, the baby was high, so she's pleased with that. Also I'm not measuring any further out than I was last time (so even though I'm at 31 weeks, I'm measuring 34 but since that was what I was measuring at 28 she's not concerned of any increased fluids this time!)
SOOOO, I'll go back in two weeks assuming nothing else happens between then and now. AND she wants to do another u/s regardless at 37 weeks to determine size and double check on the fluid levels again.
Thanks all.
Pregnancy Insomnia
Okay... well I've been up for near an hour now. And I had trouble falling asleep when I did go to bed. Why is it when you neeeeeeed sleep and you neeeeeeed rest, your mind is active and can't stop? I've been spinning my wheels like crazy over things that can not be resolved tonight. I thought maybe if I got them written down the spinning would cease for tonight and I could find a few more hours before the house stirs. This post is really to no one but myself, just writing because I'm awake really. 9 more weeks. 9 more weeks...
On a side note, I find it very funny that the gender voting is tied even steven. Every time one gets slightly ahead, the other side catches up. Seems like it's a complete toss up as to who's in here.
On a side note, I find it very funny that the gender voting is tied even steven. Every time one gets slightly ahead, the other side catches up. Seems like it's a complete toss up as to who's in here.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Websites for you!
So excited!!!
Jamie and I have been working on a new website that we’d like so much for you to check out! It's called Songs for you! Can you believe it!? We’re in our own business! I’ve been singing my whole life and now, with this website, I’m hoping to be able to reach people all over with the gift God’s given me. I pray that this site will be used to His glory, according to His will. I’d be so grateful for you to come and check it out and pass it on. If you have a moment, please forward this link to anyone who you think might be interested! I am giving God all the glory for this opportunity! And special thanks to my friend Jessica for starting her own website and inspiring me to do the same.
Here’s our website Songs for you
When you do visit the site, please sign the guestbook!
If I’ve had the pleasure of singing for you in the past please shoot me an email and I’d love to add your experiences to the “What say you” page!
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
I wanted to pass on Jessica’s website for her as well since she really gave me the courage to put myself out there! She is an amazingly talented artist and I’ve been very blessed to receive a masterpiece of hers as a gift, take another moment to view her page and you’ll be pleased I’m sure Scripture2picture
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Some
Just some updating for all to see.1. This weekend we got a futon from a friend, so instead of the large bins that hold our toys, I now have "lost" the bins and everything is in baskets or buckets on the bookshelf. This is what it looked like after Jamie and I cleaned it up this morning. And surprisingly so far it still is like that, though Matthew had little playing time today since we were out most of the day. We'll see how long it stays that way when h
e's had at it. Ha ha.2. Jamie does pull ups. If you've been to our house, you know there is a pull up bar in one of the main door ways. Matthew typically asks for a turn and we lift him up to "get strong"... well today something new happened. Jamie grabbed Matthew with his legs and swung him. So Jamie's got his hands on a bar, and neither of their feet are touching the floor. They had a great time. Jamie got a good workout though, because Matthew kept asking "again?!" Next time you're doing pull ups, add thirty pounds to your feet and see how many you can do! We were all laughing hard! It was so funny!
3. Last weekend we went to the wedding of one of Jamie's cousins. Here are some shots from that. I love the one of the three Hobbs men walking hand in hand to the wedding. So cute. The wedding was really nice. After the pastor did the final prayer and said "amen" before announcing Mr and Mrs... Matthew added his own "AMEN" Loudly. oh well. :) It was a nice night and fun party.
4. I go back next Monday for another OB appt. I'm praying that I wont be any further in measurements than what my MW wants to see. I've got to get through the next week. I'm still praying daily for the baby's kidneys. That they are working properly and functioning well and there wont be any issues with them before or after birth. Thank you for your continued prayers on that.
5. In big boy bed news; Matthew has done great great great. I couldn't be more pleased. He's had one day since starting that was just awful. Up and down the whole time, eventually no nap came of it but since then, it's been back to normal and he's done so well. I tell him each time I put him down to "stay in his bed" and he (except that one day) does. It's amazing. When he wakes up, he calls out "Momma, I stayed the bed. I need the help. Momma, I stayed the bed!" It so cute. And I love that he's disciplined enough TO ACTUALLY stay in the bed and wait for me to come get him. I know eventually he'll just get up and we'll face a new battle, but for now, he's doing so good!
I think that's all the news I have.
OH!
6. MY SISTER IS AMAZING. She is done done done with her classes for her vet program. She has a ceremony tomorrow and I'm sad we wont be able to be there with her. Tomorrow she gets her white coat! Then next week she starts orientations and clinicals! A year and a half to go and we'll have a Doctor on our hands. I'm so proud of you, Kris.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
3D baby
I've been pondering on whether to share this with the world or not but I think I will...If you would have asked me "are you all going to do 3D pictures?" I would have probably said "uh, no." And in my head I'd ask 'don't you need money to do those at a special session?'
Well, at the last appt with all the fluid measuring going on, the u/s tech asked if she could "play with something" I was totally unsure to what she was referring, but said "sure." And this was the result. She gave me a 3D picture to take home... She said there was more but she couldn't give me but the one for free. They were checking the 3D stuff out anyhow, I just didn't know it. So getting a free 3D shot at 28 weeks is pretty amazing. It's hard to think about this creature inside me now as anything less than a fully put together child, knit by the Master. Would I have paid for a 3D session or bought a 3D video? Still probably not... Would I trade this picture? Nope. It takes my breath away every time I look at it. I simply can not get over how formed he or she truly is. I love that little nose already. What a difference the reg u/s picture is compared to this 3D one. How much more connected to my Manna baby I feel now that I've seen "more" of him or her. God's love, God's mercy, God's miracle of life is truly amazing.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
The bed
Just wanted to show off my son's big bed. Much different looking from the first shot of it empty and unused, huh? He has done amazingly well in the big bed. He's gone down without a fuss or fight. He's stayed in the bed all but one time (including NAPS!) and is truly amazing me. He basically is weaning himself off the crib. I was ready to keep doing naps in the crib but just try the big bed at night... Nope! He wont have it. I'm surprised the sitter today got him asleep in the packNplay while I was teaching. I didn't voice it to her but wondered how that would go, since he hadn't been behind bars in a few days now! But he did fine there too. My son is such a big boy. I can't stand it!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
The Big Bed!!!
Holy Big Bed Batman!!!
I might have spoke too soon...
Matthew stayed the whole night in his big bed last night!
I have a big boy!
I might have spoke too soon...
Matthew stayed the whole night in his big bed last night!
I have a big boy!
Monday, October 6, 2008
baby update
Nothing like a whirlwind of emotions to start your day...
I had a rough appt for sure. I gained *ahem* 15 pounds in four weeks. (Oh holy crapola!) and am measuring 6 weeks ahead. (Last OB appt we were measuring 4 weeks ahead) so needless to say my MW was a little on the concerned side. She said she wanted to do an u/s today to see what the fluid levels were surrounding the baby and to see if we needed to check the kidneys of baby, if the fluid levels were in danger zones... SOOOO I was a mess emotionally as my thoughts went all over the "what if's" while I sat in the waiting room to be "squeezed in" to an u/s appt. THEN having to wait some more afterward while the u/s tech got the results ready for my MW to call me back in and tell me them...
Fortunately I didn't have to wait too long for the u/s. In fact, I didn't even get to call Jamie to tell him in between. But I did have a little bit of a wait after that while they got the results ready. That was hard. BUT it was beautiful seeing my little Manna again. And while I was waiting the second time, I was staring at his or her sweet face, curtisy of the u/s tech who gave me a pic to take home.
After all the waiting, the good news is we ARE okay. The levels of fluid are HIGH but they aren't ABNORMAL. So, my MW says we'll just keep watching. She said if I'm still measuring this far ahead next time or further (oh my word, I can't possibly measure even further out can I?!), then we'll do another u/s to double double check and make sure that the fluid levels don't increase into danger levels. If that happens THEN we'll have to monitor and test the kidneys but for now we didn't have to. WHEW!
So, we ruled out two of the three options that were potential scenarios for today from last appt.
1. There is only ONE baby. The u/s tech even did a 3D shot to make double double sure. The possibility of twins is ruled firmly out. (God help us if they are wrong come December!)
2. The baby measured only a week ahead for his or her personal growth. I'm 28 weeks and 1 day today, and baby measured at 29 weeks and 3 days. Roughly about 3 pounds. So THUS FAR, we aren't looking at a large baby...
MW just said that because of all the fluid, my uterus is providing an penthouse suite instead of a measly apartment for living space. LOL
Anyhow, I'll appreciate all healthy thoughts and prayers for my baby and his/her kidneys as we progress along in the pregnancy. Thank you.
I had a rough appt for sure. I gained *ahem* 15 pounds in four weeks. (Oh holy crapola!) and am measuring 6 weeks ahead. (Last OB appt we were measuring 4 weeks ahead) so needless to say my MW was a little on the concerned side. She said she wanted to do an u/s today to see what the fluid levels were surrounding the baby and to see if we needed to check the kidneys of baby, if the fluid levels were in danger zones... SOOOO I was a mess emotionally as my thoughts went all over the "what if's" while I sat in the waiting room to be "squeezed in" to an u/s appt. THEN having to wait some more afterward while the u/s tech got the results ready for my MW to call me back in and tell me them...
Fortunately I didn't have to wait too long for the u/s. In fact, I didn't even get to call Jamie to tell him in between. But I did have a little bit of a wait after that while they got the results ready. That was hard. BUT it was beautiful seeing my little Manna again. And while I was waiting the second time, I was staring at his or her sweet face, curtisy of the u/s tech who gave me a pic to take home.
After all the waiting, the good news is we ARE okay. The levels of fluid are HIGH but they aren't ABNORMAL. So, my MW says we'll just keep watching. She said if I'm still measuring this far ahead next time or further (oh my word, I can't possibly measure even further out can I?!), then we'll do another u/s to double double check and make sure that the fluid levels don't increase into danger levels. If that happens THEN we'll have to monitor and test the kidneys but for now we didn't have to. WHEW!
So, we ruled out two of the three options that were potential scenarios for today from last appt.
1. There is only ONE baby. The u/s tech even did a 3D shot to make double double sure. The possibility of twins is ruled firmly out. (God help us if they are wrong come December!)
2. The baby measured only a week ahead for his or her personal growth. I'm 28 weeks and 1 day today, and baby measured at 29 weeks and 3 days. Roughly about 3 pounds. So THUS FAR, we aren't looking at a large baby...
MW just said that because of all the fluid, my uterus is providing an penthouse suite instead of a measly apartment for living space. LOL
Anyhow, I'll appreciate all healthy thoughts and prayers for my baby and his/her kidneys as we progress along in the pregnancy. Thank you.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
three things
Thoughts on three things...
1. Relay for Life went great this past Friday night. I had surpassed my personal goal of 250 dollars by about 60 dollars! Our team raised nearly 3500 dollars to fight cancer! I'm so proud to be a part of it and look forward to doing it again next year and raising even more money in the name of a CURE! One of the things that is the most moving (emotionally) at Relay is the luminaries that line the track. Luminary are lit in honor or memory of those who are battling or have battled cancer. Hundreds of them lined the track on both sides. Hundreds. Looking at each name on each bag as you walk past chokes you up thinking about every name belonging to another person. When I found my dad's bag I literally almost cried out loud. There he was. There was his name. I walked and raised all this money for him. I pray that as he battles the cancer this time, it will really be the end of it. I'm so thankful for my dad and for his life... I took a picture of his bag with his candle glowing for HOPE...
2. Recently we made up Matthew's big boy bed. Just thought I'd share a pic about that too. He hasn't yet slept in it. Though we've been having story time on it in the afternoons before nap and sometimes before bed. I'm hoping when we do transition it will go smoothly. I'll update on that as it happens. For now it is just harboring a gathering of stuffed animals. He was so cute about it the night we set it up, which this shot was taken.
3. And lastly, here's the most recent belly picture for you. Today's the 5th, if you go back in the blog world to September 5th, to see the difference, it's pretty great. Today is 28 weeks, the start of the third trimester! I'm so glad. Though, I can't believe it's already here! And the baby will be here before we know it. :) I have an ob check up tomorrow. We'll see what is said about the size of the belly then and I'll update accordingly. Cheers.
.
1. Relay for Life went great this past Friday night. I had surpassed my personal goal of 250 dollars by about 60 dollars! Our team raised nearly 3500 dollars to fight cancer! I'm so proud to be a part of it and look forward to doing it again next year and raising even more money in the name of a CURE! One of the things that is the most moving (emotionally) at Relay is the luminaries that line the track. Luminary are lit in honor or memory of those who are battling or have battled cancer. Hundreds of them lined the track on both sides. Hundreds. Looking at each name on each bag as you walk past chokes you up thinking about every name belonging to another person. When I found my dad's bag I literally almost cried out loud. There he was. There was his name. I walked and raised all this money for him. I pray that as he battles the cancer this time, it will really be the end of it. I'm so thankful for my dad and for his life... I took a picture of his bag with his candle glowing for HOPE...
2. Recently we made up Matthew's big boy bed. Just thought I'd share a pic about that too. He hasn't yet slept in it. Though we've been having story time on it in the afternoons before nap and sometimes before bed. I'm hoping when we do transition it will go smoothly. I'll update on that as it happens. For now it is just harboring a gathering of stuffed animals. He was so cute about it the night we set it up, which this shot was taken.
3. And lastly, here's the most recent belly picture for you. Today's the 5th, if you go back in the blog world to September 5th, to see the difference, it's pretty great. Today is 28 weeks, the start of the third trimester! I'm so glad. Though, I can't believe it's already here! And the baby will be here before we know it. :) I have an ob check up tomorrow. We'll see what is said about the size of the belly then and I'll update accordingly. Cheers.
.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Four years
I'm not much of a poet, and sadly it doesn't rhyme all the way through, but oh well...
Four years ago yesterday I married my best friend.
I became a help-meet for a man who God had designed for me.
Four years ago yesterday my life stopped being my own.
I'm now part of a unity instead of living just for me.
Four years ago I never knew just how much my life would change.
I had no idea what it would mean to belong to someone else.
Four years ago I never knew just how much love would come my way.
I had no idea what it would mean to carry and birth his children.
No one had told me that my heart could break and be glued back together larger.
No one had told me that my love for him would keep getting stronger.
I'm so blessed beyond my wildest dreams.
I love you Jamie. I love being yours.
♥
Four years ago yesterday I married my best friend.
I became a help-meet for a man who God had designed for me.
Four years ago yesterday my life stopped being my own.
I'm now part of a unity instead of living just for me.
Four years ago I never knew just how much my life would change.
I had no idea what it would mean to belong to someone else.
Four years ago I never knew just how much love would come my way.
I had no idea what it would mean to carry and birth his children.
No one had told me that my heart could break and be glued back together larger.
No one had told me that my love for him would keep getting stronger.
I'm so blessed beyond my wildest dreams.
I love you Jamie. I love being yours.
♥
Monday, September 29, 2008
Voting... on here
I'm so curious as to who's voting which way. I like the poll, it's neat to see, but I'm totally nosy and wonder who voted girl and who voted boy. I've got 90 days to wonder who's in there, I guess I can keep on wondering about other things too.
If you haven't voted, cast your vote. As of today, the boys are only up by one. Before Friday though they were up by three so there have been some girl votes over the weekend.
...if anything it's something to keep me busy. :)
If you haven't voted, cast your vote. As of today, the boys are only up by one. Before Friday though they were up by three so there have been some girl votes over the weekend.
...if anything it's something to keep me busy. :)
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Home again
Obviously we are home again if I'm blogging... (that can only mean I'm procrastinating!)
We spent 3 days in STL, and just over 48 hours in KC. It was a short trip but well worth it. Saw my best friend from High School get married, Matthew got a (wooden) horsey and rode on a "real" train for the first time, and spent much needed time with family!
Here is just a sampling for you...
We spent 3 days in STL, and just over 48 hours in KC. It was a short trip but well worth it. Saw my best friend from High School get married, Matthew got a (wooden) horsey and rode on a "real" train for the first time, and spent much needed time with family!
Here is just a sampling for you...
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