Last Preggo Update

I can't even begin to describe how crazy life has gotten lately. Let me backtrack to where I left off.

I got a spinal tap on Tuesday June 18th. After another episode of increased blurriness and brightness in my vision - my vision decreased to 20/70 in my L eye and to 20/40 in my right. They could only assume that the pressures in my brain had gone up and wanted a lumbar puncture ASAP. So, they told me they would get me in - if not my neurologist would get me in himself in the ER. Well, they couldn't get me on the schedule, so he met me at the ER and performed the spinal tap on me himself.

He said he expected pressures to be in the upper 20s, normal range is 10-20. He had to stick me twice, first needle was too small and didn't produce the fluid results. Second needle worked. Ouch. And then pressures were 12. Stumped my neuro. He drained enough cerebral spinal fluid to create a new me.  He pulled out his little black book of neurology, ordered a laundry list of lab work to check for bacterial infection. He ordered things like toxoplasmosis, cat scratch fever, all kinds of crazy stuff. 

I woke up Wednesday and went to work. Before long I couldn't sit up right without my neck stiffening, my head pounding and vomiting. I went home and rested. That day, Dean McGee Eye Institute called and wanted to set up an appointment for that day. They were able to fit me in on Thursday and I found a driver (my mom) who could take me since I still could not sit upright. 

Thursday we drove to okc. I rode in the back, of course that's not safe, but I had no other choice. Arrived and spent most of the exam laying in my side in an upright chair. The doctor there was amazing and came to the conclusion that I was losing lots of color and vision but he believed 80 percent chance it would return. He diagnosed it optic neuritis and said it was either brought on by pregnancy hormones or was auto immune that was brought out instead of suppressed by pregnancy. I continued to be miserable from headaches. 

Woke up early Friday and headed back to the ER right after shift change. They got me in right away where I requested an epidural blood patch to fix the headaches. They wavered a bit but had no other treatment options so finally agreed. An epidural blood patch is where they draw blood from your arm and the. Immediately out it in your epidural space to help "patch" the holes and normalize pressures in your brain. Immediate relief. I spent the rest of my weekend resting and gimping round. Since my back had been through a lot and I was 38 weeks pregnant I was pretty stiff and sore. 

My OB appointment was that Monday. I went in and talked to my OB, and told him everything that had gone on and how the vision issues were in fact continuing to get worse and were pregnancy related. He wanted to do an induction that night! After talking with him we managed to to arrange an induction starting Wednesday night. I went back to work and the more I thought about it, and knowing I wasn't dilated or effaced at all, and he was still way up in the rafters, I decided to just request a c section for Thursday. I mean, I had already been through do much that past week and my back was still killing me, I just wanted it to be less stress on everyone. 

I worked Tuesday and then started my leave in Wednesday. Camden and I had a special day together, he came with me to my pre op appointment at the hospital and we did east he wanted to do which was go to chicken fil a and play and go swimming. We had a good time, stayed up past nap, took a nap together and snuggled. It was fantastic. 

Little did I know the end of my week and the beginning of the next were going to be a life changer in the most unexpected way...

36 weeks: a BIG update

Preggo Update -- LOTS going on. A WHOLE LOT. This post was typed about a week ago as tons more has happened since then. Will post more when I feel up to it!

 

So, the weekend of Memorial Day Weekend, I got a bad badheadache. It started on Sunday. I had a headache that whole week, that would NOT go away. I started to get worried when Thrusday my vision changed. It didn't improve Friday so I called my OB. He prescribed something for the headache and then I woke up Saturday with no headache finally, but my vision was still messed up. And when i say messed up? Like not fun. You know how you go outside and you come back in and everything is bright and blueish while your eyes adjust to the light? It was like that. Correction: is IS like that. Still. It also had tiny blurry spots oin my tight eye. Saturday I got in to my optomitrist so I could get things checked. He could see something going on but wanted to try least restrictive first, so he started with just lubricating drops for two days. No changes. So by Monday he put me on steroid eye drops every three hours.

 

Fingers crossed that would work.

 

And it didn't. Went back to my optomistrist on Tuesday. He was worried with how things look and set me up with an appointment with an ophthalmologist. I saw him by that friday - as I happened to call and see that they had a cancellation. Luckily, they got me in, told me there was definitely swelling on my optic nerves. Consulted with my OB and sent me for an MRI that day. 

 

Yep, an MRI at 36 weeks pregnant. Not so much fun laying on your back. Then the nice lady covered me up with a blanket which would be a nice gesture to anyone UNPREGNANT but instead I was burning up.

 

So I don't hear anything from the ophthalmologist until Monday. He calls to tell me the MRI is clear. I even had them check for the Sheldon that I had a while ago. No sign of him either. So they assumed that the pressure on the opic nerves is from Idiopathic Intercranial Hypertension. Ophthalmologist wants me to see a Neurologist. Had that appointment approximately 2 weeks after my eyesight changing for the first time.

 

And the doctor spent quite a bit of time with me. He recommended a spinal tap to decrease pressure, see if vision problems resolve and then to be put on a diuretic to keep the cerebral spinal fluid from builidng up again before delivery. It sounds like if I wait until delivery to have a spinal tap (before epidural) they are worried about lasting damage to my optic nerve. I will say, I do want to see again. Doctor mentioned he had seen plenty of people with this during pregnancy, but has never seen anyone present with this so late in their pregnancy. So, who knows.

 

Going to see where a spinal tap takes me and then I will be on the diuretic for a few months to be sure that I don't have this build up again and follow up with a neuro-ophthalmologist in okc. apparently there are only three in the atate, thats where they are located. Whew, lots of doctors appointments and bills. Crazy talk!

 

I have learned lots of things through this experience. In placing my faith in God, trusting that things will work out, not letting fear creep in, and most importantly, NOT taking things for granted. I am so blessed. I sitll have a healthy baby inside, I may not see clearly, but I can still see. I can't imagine how hard it is for peole that can't.

Here's my update:

 

How far along?: 36 weeks

Maternity clothes?: yes, for sure. All over please. Brought out my big "tent" shirts.

 

Sleep: not going so smooth. I hear EVERYTHING like normal on top of waking to pee at least three times a night. I can't turn over without waking up either, I usually sleep on one side until I goes numb, then I wake up to turn.

 

Best moment of the week: Picking a final name for 2.0. Being that much closer to full term!

Movement: Yes. Less than normal though, I think he's sleeping alot.

 

Food Cravings: Nothing in particular these days. Not like before. I really wanted Mexican food one night, so I got that.

Gender:  All boy!

Belly Button: Still popped and stretched thiiiiiiiin.

What I miss: Walking normal, turning in bed without having to wake up from my sleep, clothes fitting, working out, being thinner.

 

What I am looking forward to: Seeing again.

Weekly Wisdom: Having an MRI while 36 weeks pregnant is NOT comfortable, but can be done.

Big C Update: He still waffles between wanting to call him the other name or the ne we think we finally decided on. He prays for him on his own and will still kiss and huh him. Hope he's ready! 

33 almost 34 weeks : A Survey

How far along?: 33 weeks, 6 days according to my count. :)

Maternity clothes?: Yes, definitely yes. Please.

Sleep: Some nights good, some nights horrible! I had issues with nightmares a few times. I would wake up at three in and morning and then toss and turn for two hours until my alarm goes off. I feel horrible after a night like that. They were pretty unpleasant dreams about suicide and murders and gross stuff like that. Then like two days ago I slept all night and didn't even have to get up to pee.   

 

Best moment of the week: going to the doctor and hearing that 2.0 has turned and is head down (again!). So excited that he's facing downward.

Movement: Yes, finally a lot more now. Now that he's getting bigger and fluid levels are staying the same, I can definitely feel him more.

 

Food Cravings: Nothing really sticks out in particular. I'm not near as hungry these days (thank God - I've already packed on PLENTY of weight). It doesn't take a lot to fill me up these days, trying to enjoy that so I don't balloon up even worse.

Gender:  All boy!

Belly Button: Out on top, and stretched verrrrrry thin. In fact, I don't know that it can stretch anymore, that bad boy is shallow!

What I miss: Walking normal. Exercising without getting so winded or abdominal muscles sore. Fitting into clothes. Not having people make comments about how big I look, DAILY. Sheesh.

What I am looking forward to: Meeting this boy! I can't wait. I'm feeling so big that I can't wait to drop the weight and get moving. Let's do this!

Weekly Wisdom: Get to bed on time, cause sleeping will just get worse!

Milestones: being head down! yay!

 

Big C Update: Camden is doing great. He prays for baby brother all on his own now, he likes to kiss and hug him in my belly.  He knows what things will be for baby brother. He helped me to register at Target and Buy Buy Baby and enjoyed picking out things for baby brother. I can only hope and pray he will be a good accepting and helpful big brother!

The Family Addition::How Does the Love Grow?

Using my rearview mirror the other day I looked back at my little boy in his car seat, chattering away about the red, yellow and green lights. It struck me how big he looked. So tall, his face thinned out, I noticed there's not much baby chub left on his face. His shorter hair after a haircut made him look that much more grown, the adorable little sparkle in his eye as he talks to me and catches me sneaking a glimpse of him in the rearview. It struck me, hitting me like a ton of bricks and almost taking my breath away, that he won't be my baby much longer. It won't be too long before there is an infant seat next to him. Until he has to share his Daddy's and my affection with another human being. He will have half the attention, half our time, and I worry that half the love isn't enough.

I know that people say your love will grow. It will multiply and there will be plenty to go around. That doesn't change the fact that I worry how that's possible. It's one of those things that it's hard to believe until you experience it. I'm sure it will be fine and my fears are unfounded, but that doesn't make it seem any easier.

Things are so cozy as our family of three. We are able to take turns parenting through the tantrums and fits as needed in the evenings. We can share responsibility of bathtime and teeth brushing giving the other person a reprieve. Once Camden is down we are able to spend time together or one of us gets the evening to hit the gym. We have our routines down, our parenting styles meshed - and here we are about to change it all with the addition of a newborn that will suck the time out of both of us and the sleep out of at least one of us. ;)

Will my adorable big boy feel neglected? Will he still get all the 1:1 time with each of us that he needs and craves? I feel so busy sometimes now, I know things are going to get much, much busier. But, all for the better and in the best way possible.

But it doesn't keep me from wondering how on earth it's all going to work out. I pray God will calm my fears, expand my love and especially my patience as I help my firstborn work out his little emotions regarding his changing status in the family. I pray He will give Camden a sweet big brother's heart full of love and adoration, and that this transition would go better than I could ever imagine.

We will find out in eight weeks or less!!

Pregnancy Survey : 31 weeks.

How far along?: 31 weeks

Maternity clothes?: Pants yes. Shirts, still varies. Mostly, yes!

Sleep: Waking up once or twice to pee, but it could be worse. So far, not bad. Getting harder to get in and out of bed for sure though.

Best moment of the week: Feeling C 2.0 move. It's about time, he's a pretty lazy/quiet baby. I'm finally noticing him move a little bit more. Going back to see him again, getting his measurements.  He's officially moved back into the breech position. Actually more transverse. His head is up on my right side, his rear towards the left and his feet down low. Silly kid. He measures at about 3 lbs and 10oz, which is 49th percentile. Because he was facing my spine -  I didn't get any cool pictures of him which is my favorite part. That little stinker. Already living up to his last name - fitting right on in with the stubbornness of the family! ;) The doctor told me to "have a little talk with him" about turning. I guess he must not realize - that I already know that won't do any good. Haha. If he's anything like the rest of his family he will turn and stay put when he pleases! ;)

Movement: He still doesn't move much. Camden would have been using my bladder as a trampoline by now. This time around I'll have to lay on my back and push on him to see if he is still interested in moving! Funny I say he doesn't move much, but apparently he does if he flipped himself back to the breech position...

Food Cravings: Nothing in particular.

Gender:  Male. Gonna have me two little boys!

Belly Button: Stretched and a little pokey outtie at the top. It's weird like that.

What I miss: Sleeping all night, sleeping on my belly, walking normal. Being able to workout harder without losing my breath so easily!

What I am looking forward to: Meeting this little boy, getting through the next 9 weeks!

Weekly Wisdom: It really hit me this week that I have about 2 months until I meet this little character. I'm learning to appreciate and savor the moments of pregnancy because this is likely my last! I won't feel that kicking again in my belly that startles me when falling asleep, or being able to poke and feel something hard in my belly - we all know that afterwards when you poke it's nice and squishy!

Milestones: Down into the single digits when counting weeks. That's crazy talk!

Big C Update: He's at such a fun age. Talking and learning and growing. He talks about sharing his baby swing with baby brother and he will take the bigger swing that he calls "Daddy's swing". He talks all about sharing with Baby Brother and being a Big Brother.  I can't help but wonder how much of that he really gets though. He still wants to name baby brother "Come out" or "Candy Cane". Not sure where he gets this stuff!

29 weeks: A Survey

How far along?: 29 weeks.

Maternity clothes?: Pants yes. Tops, still a mixture but mostly yes.

Sleep: yes please! I'm always tired. Some nights waking up to pee, other nights waking up before my alarm having to pee so bad it hurts. 

 

Best moment of the week: Going to the doctor at 28 weeks, 3 days. Finding out that 2.0 has flipped and is no longer breech. Finding out that the intense pain in my left side is no big deal, and to deal with it. That means it's of no concern, so that's good! Hearing that I start coming for appointments every two weeks. ALREADY? We don't have a name picked out!!! Seeing 2.0's adorable little face on the u/s. Lordy he's cute, if I do say so myself.

Movement: Yes. I swear he flipped the night before my appointment because my kicks were still realllllly low the entire previous day.

 

Food Cravings: Nothing in particular these days. Not like before.

Gender:  Doctor said, "He definitely has a penis".

Belly Button: Still popped out a little at the top.

What I miss: Walking normal, turning in bed without having to wake up from my sleep, clothes fitting, not weighing this much in general.

What I am looking forward to: Hearing results of glucose test, seeing 2.0 again in two weeks, and meeting this character!

Weekly Wisdom: It can be really stressful switching insurances with 10 weeks to go in pregnancy. Just sayin'.  As of May everything will have changed, since Husband is switching jobs. It's a LOT of work!

Milestones: Glucose test, THIRD TRIMESTER!!

 

Big C Update: He's so cute. Sharing toys with baby brother, insisting on giving him hugs and overall just being sweet. I hope it's not such a shock when he really does arrive. Sometimes I wonder if he thinks baby brother is going to stay inside forever! I do have a cute video where I asked him if he wanted to say anything to baby brother and he said "come out!". We read his "I'm going to be a big brother book" the other night and he insisted on sleeping with it. We had to go back in after he was asleep and put it up so he wouldn't wake up with a dent in his forehead. 

My 28 week belly, courtesy of Husband. :)

26 Weeks and the survey says...

**a little late in posting this seeing as how I am almost 27 already!!**


How far along?: 26 weeks

Maternity clothes?: Pants, definitely yes. Tops, occasionally. My non pregnancy clothes are getting a little too short - so it won't be long before it's a permanent thing.

Sleep: Getting up occasionally to pee. Otherwise not bad. Sometimes that means I have trouble getting back to sleep. I've just started noticing that it's getting hard to turn.

Best moment of the week: Going to my doctor's appointment. Stubborn little baby weighs in at about 1lb and 15 ounces. Doctor tried to get a picture, but his arm was over his face. He's also floating way up high, breech. The doctor showed me my pelvis - it was a dark gaping spot. He said "that's where his head should be". Well that explains the very low kicks then! To find his head he had to go way up past my belly button. It was weird. I guess that explains why my belly button already seems to be sticking so far out - instead of tiny feet being up there - it's a big ol' head! (also according to some further research my uterus is now 2 and a half inches above my belly button. Sure seems to go fast!

Movement: Definitely. And like I said, very low.

Food Cravings: Guacamole. Last week I HAD to have biscuits and gravy. So much so that I went to the store that night and bought sausage and biscuits and made my very own homemade gravy courtesy of the Pioneer Woman. It didn't disappoint!

Gender: boy!

Belly Button: Like I said, sticking way out and the top of it popped out with about 8 weeks to go last time. The top of my belly button has been popped this time for weeks. Silly stubborn boy!

What I miss: Walking normal, not being out of breath when doing stairs, sleeping on my belly.

What I am looking forward to: I go back to my doctor in three weeks. I hoping baby will be more cooperative and I can get a darn picture! I also will have my glucose test.

Weekly Wisdom: Protonix. It is the best thing since sliced bread! For weeks I was uncomfortable with horrible reflux and not being able to sleep because of it. Doctor told me to try OTC stuff, no avail. I called back and they said this reflux med helps decrease stomach acid and is completely safe. Praise God! And the relief is AMAZING.

Milestones: Glucose test coming up, almost to third trimester. Doctor measured baby boy and said that he is measuring a few days ahead. I'm sure they'll keep an eye on that as they go!

Big C Update: He wants to name baby brother Candy Cane or Cupcake. He's fitting in with the C theme at least. He prays for baby brother every night and knows that he's growing in my belly. The other day he came up to me with two toys and all on his own gave me one and said "that's for baby brother and this one is for me". I died right there. Sharing with baby brother already? Soooo sweet!!

22 weeks.

How far along?: 22 Weeks 

Total weight gain/loss: I think this question is just funny. Loss? Really? Who does that? Jerks. I'm up like 18. I think. I never remember to weigh in the morning which is when I originally weighed. Pretty sure that's it.

Maternity clothes?: Yes, for pants. Tops are still mostly non maternity - which is good, Mommy needs her sweaters to fit for a few more weeks!

Sleep: I can't complain in this department. I mostly sleep on my side now, and can kinda do my stomach if I'm angled. I haven't had to get up to pee as often which is a total blessing. I just need to be able to get into bed at a decent hour! Heartburn is starting to rear it's head, ignoring it the best I can.

Best moment of the week: Seeing 2.0 on the Ultrasound. Looking good, all organs are accounted for and appropriately sized, right amount of chambers for the heart, and the placenta is high and in a good place.

Movement: Yes, especially at night when I'm trying to sleep. Honestly, sometimes I forget I'm pregnant. I have so much going on and so much to do, that those little baby kicks will often zero me back in to reality. OH yes, there is a reason why my belly sticks out, I'm growing a human!

Food Cravings: Guacamole and cereal, and smoothies. I had just Guacamole for dinner a few nights this past week. And cereal on the other nights. And? I love it. Husband isn't so thrilled since he would prefer that I cook, but I'm not craving much else! Does water count? I really go through a LOT of it in a day.

Gender:  Boy FOR SURE! I saw the goods at my appointment this last week, and you could see clear as a whistle it was a boy! He showed me the face, but I sure didn't see that as well as I saw the parts!

Belly Button: Still innie and will stay that way like last time, I'm sure.

What I miss: Not being so winded or dizzy when I move quickly. Also I have been doing really well at going to the gym, but when I come home my ab muscles literally HURT. I don't know if I am unconsciously trying to hold them in the entire work out so they are sore after I leave, or if the bouncing of the belly is too much. I don't remember this from last time, but I'm just being careful about it.

What I am looking forward to: Well last \week I was looking forward to my appointment. Making sure it was a boy! I got a special treat and due to weather related conditions I picked up Camden early and took him with me to reduce my driving. He was a little angel baby at the appointment, playing on my phone and obeying everything I said. He sat in the chair and played on the phone, looked up when I told him to look for baby brother, and instantly perked up when the doctor loudly played the heartbeat. It was pretty cute. And he was even cuter to me walking out. When the doctor first came in the room he brought him a sucker. Camden was excited for it and said thank you with a little prompting. On the way out, WITHOUT prompting - we walked by a man in scrubs (who was not my doctor - but it was still adorable nevertheless) and he said "thank you for sucker" and my heart. melted. right. there. What a thoughtful little boy!

Weekly Wisdom: heartburn strikes again right around 20 weeks. Awesome. Or not. Don't use pepcid cause it doesn't work.

Milestones: Past halfway! Whee!

Big C Update: He's adorable. He can tell me now that baby brother is in Mommy's belly. He knows it's not in Daddy's belly, and not in his belly. We pray for baby brother every night to grow big and strong. He's loving books and reading, still addicted to Mickey Mouse and astounding us with how smart he is on a daily basis. He still requires time outs to control himself, but he's progressing with learning how to get himself under control - unless he's super tired. He's doing well at obeying and he is honestly just such a joy. Love that kid.

these are pics at 21 weeks. Holy big belly!!

Curse of the Hormones

Husband and I were putting Camden to bed the other night and little C was having issues with wanting to lay down. We were trying to get him covered, to say our prayers and to get our evening kisses. Of course, Pearl decided she needed to be on the bed, and things got all discombobulated so to be sure that C knew it was bedtime Husband had me to turn off the light while we finish tucking him in.

Next thing I knew, I forgot to get my goodnight kiss. Oh well, I thought. I'll get some more in the morning. We leave and start making our lunches for the next day.

But then Camden is fussing in his room, Husband goes in to settle him and he comes back and tells me "He wanted a kiss".

And then I can feel the hormone surge, but can't do anything about it.

Before I know it I'm standing in the kitchen making the next days peanut butter and jelly sandwich crying through tears about how "he doens't even need me". My husband, not realizing I'm tearing up, adds salt to the wound by shrugging and saying "He's a Daddy's boy". Before I know it tears are falling and I'm wailing out loud about how "he doesn't need me anymore". Husband turns around shocked, looks at me incredulously and asks "are you crying?" and then busts out laughing.

I realize how ridiculous the tears are and what it's over, but I can't make it stop. I continue to cry and pout and say "too bad 2.0 isn't a girl cause then I would have someone need me", which after it leaves my mouth I realize how utterly ridiculous I sound. Really, Courtney?

Before I know it, I'm laughing so hard I can't see through my tears and I have to take a bathroom break. Husband is still loudly cackling in the kitchen at me, and when I return he reminds me that "they will always need you". He then lovingly points out that he feels like he "always went to my mom more" and that everything will be okay - all while sneaking in one last snicker to make me want to punch him in the arm.

Curse the horomones.


******

I go to bed on Monday night knowing that the local Chick Fil A's are having free breakfast Tuesdays in the month of February. I look at the picture I have of the banner that has the dates and the line up of free food, as well as the times, 6:30 to 10AM. Perfect, I think to myself. If we get out of the house early we can stop by and get a free breakfast and I can be just a few minutes late to work. I set my alarm earlier than normal.

When the next morning comes I bust through my routine with ChickFilA on my mind, knowing that timing is everything to be able to stop and get breakfast at 630, drop off the dog and then C to daycare and then to get clocked in on time. We arrived at ChickFilA at 6:32 after a bit of a morning to get little C out of the door on time. I realized it had to be today or never, because today was a free kid-friendly breakfast; it was chicken minis whereas the other weeks are chicken biscuits or things that he wouldn't really have any interest in.

I pull up and the parking lot is incredibly full for being two minutes after opening. I get up to the drive through and ask the girl about the free breakfast. She states "Oh, that doesn't start at this location until 7AM".

Wait, what?!?

I knew I had a picture of the sign for THAT location. I contemplate ordering anyway, but look at the line of cars in the drive through that are 4 deep and realize I have no other choice but to drive off and leave, as I can still make it to work on time if I hustle.

Camden starts fussing in the backseat as we leave, "I wanna go back" and crying about wanting to play. That's when I start to tear up, I'm thinking "I promised my kid something and couldn't deliver" and "they lied to me".

Ridiculousness - I know, but I was frustrated. I busted my rear to get my 2.5 year old kid and I ready so that we could do this and they completely deflated my bubble.

I have Husband check to make sure I was in fact at the right ChickFilA. He's gets on the website and says that even the website says 630-10 at the particular location I was at. This of course, frustrates me more, but there's nothing I can do about it at this point.


Again...another run in with the hormones. At least Husband wasn't around this time to make fun of me! I hadn't noticed a big issue with hormones until these two recent incidents. Pregnancy hormones make it that much easier to cry, that's for sure!


*And note to self, double check Chick Fil A's advertising, as they apparently can be contradictory. Who knew?? I felt that was very out of character for them!

Survey Says!!! Almost 18 weeks...

How far along?: 17 weeks and 6 days or so

Total weight gain/loss: I haven't weighed lately. Which is nice. I think I may be up 12 or so. Trying to be good so that I can fit into my bridesmaids dress for my besties wedding at the end of April!!!

Maternity clothes?: Definitely pants. Most shirts are still non maternity since maternity is still too long. I don't really look hugely pregnant yet, mostly like I ate some big meals and need to hit the gym to work off some el-bees.

Sleep: I can still sleep on my belly if I angle my hips enough, and so that's good, since I sleep the best on my stomach. Waking up about once a night to pee. Could be even more restful if I didn't have crazy dreams!

Best moment of the week: I have already hit the gym 3x this week and it's not halfway over. Hopefully I can make it at least once more, 4x a week is ideal! Finding time to do arm exercises as well. I feel accomplished when I still get a workout in and still feel a little sore. Now if I could just walk past the free doughnuts at work....

Movement: I think I have felt some movement, but not really for sure yet. It was very slight if that's what it was.

Food Cravings: Yes! Okra, Guacamole, Ice Cream.

Belly Button: Still there. Probably will remain flat and an innie like last time.

What I miss: I miss being able to walk up stairs without getting winded, being able to do push ups when I work out - they now strain the muscles in my belly and make it hurt. Also, I was watching Friends at the gym the other day and Rachel had a glass of white wine. It looked so good, and I'm not even a big drinker!

What I am looking forward to: This weekend when I can hopefully sleep in a little on Saturday, and continue to get the house picked up and purged of things we don't need. It's an ongoing battle, that's for sure! Tossing names around with Husband. Hopefully we can make time for that soon, it seems to be a little on the back burner.

Weekly Wisdom: Go to bed early. I have had two nights in a row of crazy dreams. The first night was about people thinking Camden needed to go to a psych ward for his 'bad' behavior and the next night was about people breaking into the house and me trying to hide and keep the dog quiet so I could call the police. Both nights I had to completely wake myself up to end them. No fun.

Milestones: Not that I can think of. We know the gender, so that's exciting and a huge milestone. We want to be definite before we decide on names since the doctor was "pretty sure" he saw the proper anantomy. Wait I take that back. For the first time this week a patient asked me if I had a "bun in the oven". If others have noticed previously they didn't say anything OR they didn't have enough cognitive capacity to ask. The patient that happened to notice this week is very Axis 2 and Borderline and brags a lot about how rich and smart she is. So, props to her I guess!!

Big C Update: He is doing so well! He asked to nap in his new room and in his new bed last Sunday. So then we put him to bed there. And now he's been going to bed there every night! It's crazy, but he's doing really well. I hope it sticks. There have been a few nights where I have heard him fuss, which is what I was worried about - not being able to hear. Was it because of crazy dreams that I was sleeping light? I don't know, but I went in there the other night and he just wanted to be covered up. Once I tucked him back in and gave him a kiss he was good to go. I want to finish setting up his room so that he really feels like he lives in there. Right now we sleep him in his new room, and after he's up he goes into his old room to get ready. That routine isn't going to stick when there's a baby, and once we get his closet and clothes in the dresser moved over. The hard part though is he still uses the changing table. Kid is still in diapers and apparently proud of it as he has announced it quite a bit lately -- "I wear diapers!". No matter how many times I point out that Goofy and Daddy wear big boy underwear, it doesn't seem to phase him. What a mess he is!

And a picture for kicks... Taken at about 17.5 weeks. Also pardon the haircut that NEEDS to happen!!

Book of Faces..

This is the picture I posted on Facebook and I was stunned with the amount of likes and comments encouraging our sweet family and its growth.

Pretty amazing huh??

What's in a Dream?

What is in a dream?

Last night I had some WEIRD dreams, so it was a restless night for me. I dreamed that my parents thought Camden needed to be committed because of all of his fit throwing. I spent most of the night arguing in my head about how he's only two, and they don't ever set limits but I do - so that's where they don't see the difference.

It was weird. Crazy hormones!

In other news, guess who has slept in his big boy bed the past two nights? So proud of him and I hope it sticks! His big boy sheets and comforter is due in soon and I know he will just love them. I'm so excited!!!

That's all for now!!

Last one, then all caught up!!

January 3rd, 2013

The holidays have finally passed. Things have been so busy around here. Husband was off for most of the Christmas/New Years Days, but he was off working around the house or helping his dad around his house. Our main goal was to paint Camden's new room and put up crown moulding. Mission accomplished! We are still in the process of needing to clean out the closet in that room, just thinking about that gives me anxiety. Where are we going to put all the stuff we had in there? Oh, to have a bigger house. Maybe one day!

We managed to paint, cut in, Husband and his dad put up the crown moulding and I helped do more cutting in and taping and painting. We finally finished and were able to get the mattress out of the hall and get some stuff set up in his new room. He loves to go in there and play, and was very excited to have a bed in there. He woke up one morning when we were both at home and the first words we heard from his room? "I play Camden's new room". He calls the bed, "Camden's new bed" but will still request help climbing up at times. I don't think he understands that he will get to sleep there soon. We are still debating on sheets/comforters/quilts. I found a set I just LOVE at Pottery Barn Kids. But have you seen the prices there? DANG. I don't know for sure if we can afford that. We already went to ALL of the local stores and shopped online as well. We are still discussing - I mean how many times will we buy him a new comforter/bedding like that? I mean we will buy sheets I'm sure, but the big stuff I am trying to get Husband to see as an investment. Because it is.

Today I am 13.5 weeks or so. I still feel sleepy as all get out and have been going to bed early. I have been doing a little better at going to the gym, I hate going in January though because of all the Resolutioners. I am craving cheeseburgers, fried chicken with waffles and okra. I have not succeeded in any of these desires. I did just find out that Cheddars and IHOP have fried chicken and waffles. Who knew?!? Maybe I'll eventually get it. Also trail mix sounds really good and I'm considering making my own. That just sounds like a lot of effort though, so may not happen.

I am off this coming Friday because I work the weekend. I am excited for a day to sleep in, I am just so tired. I have a lazy day planned with C, he needs his rest as well. I went to pick him up from daycare yesterday and there was kid puking in the corner. Flu season and the sickies are just that bad. I want him to have a few days at home to rest, fingers crossed he doesn't catch any of it.

I am counting down the days until the big gender reveal. 11 days from today I have my next appointment when we should be able to see. I can hardly stand the wait! Sleep is going okay, I am pretty restless in the middle of the night and don't remember waking so often in the past. I can still sleep on my stomach so I better soak that up while I can. I still have to wake early to pee though, can't get around that.

Other than that, all things are focused on "Camden's New Room" and getting him to love that room, parenting our two year old that can have his moments and eventually planning to take down Christmas stuff. Lots on the 'to do' list!

Secret baby blogging, continued.

December 20th, 2012


I had another appointment on Monday at 11w and 2d. Baby looked good, was measuring two days ahead. (for fun: if you are doing the math that means July 4th!) I finally got to meet the doctor, and he's awesome. Like super incredibly nice. I was kinda wondering why I didn't switch sooner he was so stinkin' nice. Also I got there - paid a co-pay, had an ultrasound, labwork, met with the finanial lady and was back to pick up little C within like 45 minutes. Super efficient, which is what I like. The doctor said, "I'll admit, we do more ultrasounds than necessary, but that's really just for fun". Hey, who can argue with that? It's pretty cool really. At this office you get one every visit. Super cool! The office is nice and huge and all of the staff members have been super personable. Me likey.

The doctor said he had a guess on what the gender was, but wouldn't tell me. He said "it would just be a guess". We should get to find out in a month! Crazy that he'll tell me so early, I'm super excited. Husband thinks it's going to be a girl. I think it's going to be a boy. Husband wants a boy. I want a girl. Kind of messed up thinking a little, no? One of us is going to be right! Honestly, I'd be good either way. Now that I have a boy I can only envision myself as a boy mom, unless something were to change - I'm sure of course that I would adapt. Only time will tell!

We started painting Camden's new room. We picked a khaki color for three walls and a nice shade of blue for an accent wall. It looks good, and Camden is thrilled with his blue wall. He's so fun these days, I love listening to him tell stories. He always has such an inflection in his voice, always goes higher at the end of a sentence "Daddy paint-ing, and Momma paint-ing!" He loves to jabber and talk and talk, he comes up with new stuff all the time. The other day I sneezed and he said "Bless you Mommy" and I had no idea he knew how to do that. It was so sweet!

When you ask him if he wants a brother or a sister he says, "no brother, no sister either" while adamantly shaking his head. Haha! Smart kid. Too bad he doesn't have a choice in the matter! He identifies the room we are painting as "Camden's new room" and he likes to go in there to play while we are painting and prepping, but he still see's his old room as his room. Baby steps I suppose! He's so used to his current room that it will definitely be a change. Good thing we have time. We are talking about setting it all up and moving toys in there so he plays and gets more comfortable. I usually don't do toys in the bedroom because I want him to associate his bedroom with sleep, but I think I might need a different strategy for this one. We shall see.

Christmas stuff is in full swing. Baking, preparing, wrapping presents and of course last minute shopping. I can't believe it's already here and almost time for a new year! So much to do, so many people to see. I have a love/hate relationship with the holidays. It's cold, present shopping is stressful and there is SO much to do. I love getting to see and catch up with family. Maybe that is why my favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. All the fun of Christmas but less shopping/stress.

More to come!

Continued baby blogging

It's gonna be post heavy around here for a few days so I can catch up. Enjoy!!


December 11th

Been staying busy again around these parts. Camden had RSV end of last week and of course he shared that nasty head cold with me, so I have been clogged up/feeling horrible for the past 4 days or so. Hopefully it will pass soon, as I have had about enough of this! Plus, there's still Christmas shopping to do! I feel tired, of course being pregnant and having nasty sinus stuff is probably the main culprit for that. I'm hungrier in the mornings, that is definitely changing. I used to wait to eat breakfast, that just ain't happening now!

Camden is starting to feel better and Chris is starting to feel sick. :( We have a very busy weekend planned this weekend. Not only do I work all weekend but we have Lifegroup on Friday and Saturday is Chris' work party and we will probably go to that after we hit up church. Busy, busy. When are we going to get that Christmas shopping done?

Services at church have been amazing. I love Christmastime and the songs. So good! We are going to multiple Christmas services. Why not? We are going to volunteer at some too.

I'm thinking I should start telling people at work soon that I'm pregnant. Maybe in a couple weeks.

That's really all I can think of for now. Here's a survey I did to pass some time. :)


How far along?: 10 weeks 3 days or something.

Total weight gain/loss: I don't know. I haven't really been keeping track, but up a few pounds so far.

Maternity clothes?: Not yet. Just making do with tighter pants for now, or rigging with a hair tie.

Sleep: Fine, just waking up some nights to pee. Can't complain though. At least, not yet.

Best moment of the week: Realizing I go to the doctor next week, hopefully I'll get to meet the new guy this time!

Movement: Not yet.

Food Cravings: Salty foods. Chili pies. Hot dogs. A cheeseburger sounds soooo good right now!

Gender: No idea.

Belly Button: Still there!

What I miss: nothing really. Maybe my pants fitting comfortably? But that's inevitable.

What I am looking forward to: My next appointment. Finding out the gender in two appointments!

Weekly Wisdom: Don't eat too many beans. It was just really painful on my stomach.

Milestones: None really. Unless you count that I already had my first appointment!

Big C Update: We asked him again the other day if he wanted a brother. He said "not a brother" so we asked him if he wanted a sister. He said "not sister either!". So, it's going swimmingly. :) I think he'll start to get it later. We can only hope!

Finished up with a hair tie rigging picture for my dignity! ;)

More baby blog posts

Wednesday December 5th.

So far I suppose I am about 9 1/2 weeks now. Things are going fine, but boy am I hungrier. I started eating breakfast again - oatmeal at work to help with my hunger. Usually I'm not hungry until about ten when I snack on some fruit. I've been noticing if I don't eat and try to "wait it out" I find junk around work to eat. Doughnuts, snack foods, not healthy stuff. So, oatmeal it is. Now I need to cut down on my afternoon snacking, my biggest challenge. Ugh.

Things are going well, always get super tired around 1030 at work. Like whoa. I am so tired at night but then I can't seem to get myself into bed at a decent hour. So much going on that it just seems impossible. Maybe tonight I'll have better luck.

We kind of gave up on telling Camden about the baby for now. I mean, he kinda gets it, but I think he'll get it even better when there is a belly. He's been so much fun lately despite random sickies and coughs and tantrums. This age really is exciting!

My pants are still tight but I'm trying to work out and hope that nothing shows for a bit longer. I think a lot of my weight is in my boobs, those things are ridiculous to take along to workout again.

We went to Lowes this past weekend to look at paint colors. Camden of course says he likes "this color" but then later picks like 4 other totally different colors. We are trying to decide which wall we will paint an accent color, and what color the rest of the walls will be. We keep showing Camden the guest room and call it his "new room" and he will still point to his current room and correct us that is his room. Chris is planning on doing crown moulding in there to finish it off, which will be a nice addition since only Camden's current room has the crown moulding. Sounds like a nice little winter project, cleaning out the guest room, purging of things we don't need (OH MY GOODNESS - WHERE AM I GOING TO PUT MY SADDLE? For clarification purposes I will NOT be getting rid of that), and then rearranging his room, and setting it up to his liking. I think we should be able to get it all figured out. Hopefully. Hopefully Camden can transition to the room springtimeish. Of course, that's really all up in the air and we want him to be ready for that.

Alright, this tired momma feels like she has typed enough for now. Don't go back to the doctor until the 17th, so that's still almost two weeks away. Can't wait to see little bit again!!

Oops apparently I skipped this week...

Another in the series... this is from the week prior to my last post!

 

Tuesday November 20

 

I went to my first appointment yesterday on November 19th. I arrived rather quickly at my new doctor, surprised at how easy the commute was when you pick a doctor close to your workplace. The secretary was so sweet and chatty that I felt right at home, immediately. The office was big and nice and welcoming, and was about 10 times bigger than my doctor with C. The nurse was a total sweetheart, and I already knew that from when I called with my sinus infection two weeks prior. I head into the room and they tell me that they will do ultrasounds at most appointments and that the doctor would be in shortly. Of course, there was a wrench in the plans, the nurse comes back in shortly after I peed in my cup to tell me that "he just got called to go to the hospital to deliver a baby". They give me the option to stay and see the PA or to reschedule. I am not a fan of rescheduling and I'm honestly not concerned. I will have PLENTY more appointments to meet him. I wait around for the PA to come in, they return to tell me that the OTHER doctor also got called to deliver a baby, so the PA was swamped. It really wasn't too long of a wait, before I knew it she came right in, was super sweet and I got to see the little blip on the screen. It was really there! I mean I guess I knew it was, but until you get to actually see it it doesn't really set in. Fetal heart rate was 145, measuring right on track for a due date of July 6th or so.

 

I texted Chris to tell him everything and his first question was, BOY or GIRL? haha. Patience, dear Husband.

 

On the way out they handed me a big sack full of information, tons of prenatal vitamins to try and even a book "What to Expect When You're Expecting". I already had the book but thought that was a super nice gesture!!  I was happy with the visit and the place, and I'm sure I'll be just as happy with my doctor too.

 

Upon picking up Camden, I placed my name on the waiting list. Number 31! Crazy, since they have at least ten immediate openings now. It shouldn't be a problem, but it was just weird. I asked Camden when I picked him up if he wanted a sister or a brother. He said, "NOT SISTER!" and made a sad face every time I said sister, but nodded when I said brother. I guess the boy knows what he wants.  Only time will tell! I'm excited because I should get some sort of "idea" a bit earlier with this doctor than the last one. Like a month earlier. That's pretty cool.

 

Overall I am feeling great. Smells are strong again, I swear the smell of eggs at work is just disgusting. But other than that, doing well. Still trying to workout as often as possible, trying to watch my eating and not let things get out of control. Because lets face it, things DID get out of control last time on top of the amount of water I retained it was just disgusting. Better luck this time! As much as I wasn't a fan of being pregnant and gaining weight and not feeling like myself and the heartburn, I am SUPER SUPER stoked about this time. And nervous as all get out. We mesh so well as a family of three right now, why change that? Too late, because we are!

More Secret Baby Blogging..

Wednesday, November 28th

I'm feeling tired. Maybe it has to do with the fact that I am working ten days in a row with my two days off NOT being next to each other and one of those days being the business that was Thanksgiving. Even though I am so tired, I don't feel like I am AS tired as last time. I think it has to do with the fact that I simply cannot allow myself to nap or give in to the tired. I am too busy and just have too much to do. With a toddler I don't feel that I have the choice. Plus it's Christmas time, there is so much for Camden to see and experience this year! So there's that. I am feeling fine, just sleepy.

My pants started doing the "I don't want to fit" thing, and I had to geri rig some of the smaller ones with a hair tie. It seems so soon to be having to do that, but I guess they say with the muscle memory the second time around it is almost "easier" for your body to fill out. Great. I'm trying to console myself with the fact that these pants never fit that great in the first place, and 5 months after I had Camden I was convinced I might never get back into these work khakis and I'd have to go buy new ones, and then eventually I did. Darn hips. I'm cheap, so luckily they worked. Finding work khakis is probably my least favorite thing to do anyway.

My niece was born two days ago and Camden got to go and love on her and it was adorable. If you ask him how you hold a baby, he holds his with the palms up, touching each other and bent at the elbows with his hands pretty close to his face. Its smiliar to how he holds his hands up to "catch" a football. It's pretty cute. He kept kissing her on the head when we asked and he was able to say her name "Maddie" and tell her not to cry. It was pretty sweet. He was very gentle, I'm looking forward to seeing him take on his role as big brother. I think he'll do just fine!

I sent my boss an email this week saying I was pregnant so she could start making coverage arrangements to find someone to help the other two girls while I am out. They did it alone last time and I'm pretty sure that could never happen again. It was crazy busy. She said "congrats" and that she would talk to the CEO about it. I guess my work there is done, now it's waiting to see what becomes of it. Hopefully they will find someone to sub while I'm out, it's a lot of slack to pick up for three months! ;)

Chris and I are talking about when we want to transition Camden to his new room and how that's gonna work. We definitely will have to clean it out after Christmas and rearrange some furniture. Things are going to have to move to the attic or they are gonna have to be donated. Just not enough room for it all! It's crazy to think he'll be moving to a big queen sized bed soon. He's such a big boy! I'm excited to paint and decorate a new room for him. I think he will really enjoy it!

Nothing else exciting is going on here. Craving salty things so I have been making chili and throwing a few fritos and sour cream in. Yummy.

I go back to the doctor in mid December. Sounds SO far away. I'm looking forward to seeing and hearing the little blip, and hopefully meeitng the doctor this time!

Secret baby blog

I wrote some stuff out as I found out we were pregnant and went to my first doctors' appointment. Here are a few of the posts I have written and saved...

Friday, November 16th...

I have known for a couple weeks know that I am pregnant. I knew I was supposed to start before Halloween, and it never came. I didn't officially take a pregnancy test that looked right (you know how all those plusses and things are) until our anniversary on November 4th. (I know, cue the awwwws). I had to work that day, so I left out the test and a little note for Husband to find when he woke up telling him that I was pretty sure "this was a yes". He knew it was coming anyway, but still.

It's been hard to keep it a secret, sometimes I just want to blurt it out. At work, to people at daycare, to family. But I'm being patient!

I have a doctors appointment on Monday the 19th. If all goes well there then we will plan how and when we want to tell families. At that point I will probably tell daycare so I can get on the waiting list to get #2 in the same awesome Daycare as C. Fingers crossed they will have a spot!

I'm feeling fine so far. Very thirsty, peeing a lot, and already forgetting to take my vitamin. (FAIL). Of course I'm very tired, and naps are amazing. I am keeping my fingers crossed that I can nap some this weekend when C naps, in between picture taking and church. I mean it's a free weekend, doesn't a nap just sound glorious?

I have switched doctors, and chose someone that seems to be a little closer to work, so that I can go for appointments without having much of an issue. This doctor also delivers at the hospital I had C at, which is what I prefer. Close to home and smaller - I really enjoyed that people could come visit and not get lost on the way. A girl at work sees the same doctor I picked and she LOVES him, so I suppose that is a good sign.

Because of all of this early pregnancy thing, when I had that nasty sinus infection/allergy/cold thing going on - I couldn't take ANYTHING to knock it out. It was tough. Finally I saw that I could take some Robitussin DM - thankfully because I spent an entire weekend of not sleeping. It was horrible. I have people handing me samples of Mucinex and people giving me cough syrup with codeine(mom!), that I couldn't do anything with but "pretend" to take it. You never know, I mean you just want to be sure.

A co-worker at work told me about the new study that they just came out with a few days ago. The one where they checked with moms to see if they ever had a fever while they were sick, and found that if you did in fact have a fever you were more likely to have a child with autisim or something along those lines. Crazy thinking, right? It's kinda made me a little paranoid about getting sick.

Very Excited!!

Year End Wrap Up

2012 brought about lots of happenings in our household.

In January I wrote out a list of goals to accomplish in the new year. I wanted to be more present in my daily activities as I felt like Camden was growing up way too fast. I feel that this was accomplished rather well, as evidenced by my lack of blogging it goes to show that I am stepping away from the computer and enjoying my free seconds. As a working mom, that is something that has to be done. I spent as much time away as I do with him, so it's important that I soak it up. I also had a goal of maintaining a healthy workout routine. I'd go as far to say that is still a work in progress. I'll continue to work at that. My other goal was to read the bible in a year, and as of 12-26 I did just that! Woot! This was the month where I also struggled with learning how to discipline Camden and what would be the right steps for us as a family. I also videoed Camden running to me when I pick him up at daycare. I'm happy to report that he still runs when he sees me and yells "mamma mamma" the whole way over. I love it, and will be so sad when it stops!!

February brought about buidling a playhouse for the backyard, first swim lessons and first Bounce U party. This was also the month that we helped launch a new campus at church, and it was one of the most rewarding and best things we have done. We got more invovled in church, volunteering on the Host Team and meeting people weekly. It has really been a blessing.

March brought about the beginning of molar teething, Camden graduated diaper dolphins and we continued on in the next round of swim for another eight weeks to bring us right up to swim season. We were plagued with fevers and while teething and getting kicked out of school because of it, but still staying strong!

April we took a mini vacation to Great Wolf Lodge and had a blast. On Easter, Camden actually understood that he had to pick up the eggs. Until he found out that there were things INSIDE the eggs. I did my first Pinot's Palette painting party with friends and for my birthday my brother let me shoot his guns. I can now say I have shot a gun!

May brought about more teething and biitng for Camden, and he graduated rooms at daycare. We spent some time with the cousin's helping them build a fence and had a great time there. We dedicated Camden at church, and gave him the life verse of Zephaniah 3:17. It was such a special time, and I love that we get to take him to such a great place to learn and grow in Jesus.

June brought about fun stuff. We transitioned Camden to a toddler bed after continual climbing out of bed in the wee hours of the morning. We rode bikes and ate sno cones and played in the sprinklers. I took maternity pictures for my bestie Jennie and I think they turned out simply amazing, it was work I was truly proud of, one of my first real sessions! My bestie Tiffany and I threw a baby shower for Jennie at my house.

July brought about At the Movies series at Church. It is simply amazing, and we love going to visit nearby campuses and helping set up ours. It's always a fantastic series, so much to look forward to! We watched fireworks that Camden seemed to enjoy before requesting to watch Mickey Mouse. We swam lots. Pearl got really sick and we were all really worried about her, took her to the vet and after an arm and a leg later - she was on the up and up. We swam some more.

August came so quickly, and with it came Camden's second birthday. We planned a joint birthday party with his cousin and rented a big water slide. For me, the big thing that sticks out about August was finding out about my "spot" Sheldon. I had no idea what kind of spot he was, or what he was doing in my brain. It was a stressful time, not knowing what was going on. Thankful that I signed up for volunteer MRIs to learn more about it and maybe catch something early. I was called and told about this the day before Camden's birthday. It was stressful and scary when I was trying to focus on the happy time that was Camden's birthday.

September was here so fast. We visit the zoo, went to friends birthday parties and snuggled together, all of us. Camden moved again to another new room at daycare. Camden got sick with the vomits, and it was pathetic. The actual date of Camden's birthday party fell on Sept 1, as it was the first free weekend. It was so much fun, the kids LOVED the water slide, and we stayed late and played as a family after everyone left. It was great! It also served as a great distractor while I waited to hear back about my spot, "Sheldon".

October was another fun month. We visited the pumpkin patch and Camden got to go on his first pony ride. I'll never forget how excited he was to ride the ponies - he even remembered the name of his pony, Cherokee, months later after riding. Camden and I had a solo trip to the zoo, where he loved getting to run around and play. I took my sister in law's maternity photos, Camden started saying "I you Momma" (I love you momma) repeatedly, Husband and I went to Homecoming walkarounds at our Alma Mater and I threw a baby shower for my sister in law. Halloween flew by us, we trick or treated with the cousins and Camden just LOVES spending time with them. He was the same thing he was last year (a lion), because he could still fit and the kid wasn't about to wear anything on his head anyway.

November brought about our 6th anniversary, and on this date it was when I took a pregnancy test confirming what I had already suspected by Halloween. I worked that day, but left the evidence and a note out for Husband. Camden started becoming a little chatty cathy this month, talking all the time. We had an amazing Thanksgiving, announcing to our family that Camden was getting a promotion - to big brother! It was an exciting holiday and we were thrilled to share our news. I also had my first doctors appointment with my new doctor, and got to see the the little baby C.

December crept up on us quickly. We had holiday gatherings, work parties and events going on like whoa. Baking and being thankful and seeing Christmas lights. I had my second appointment with my doctor. We started new Christmas traditions like Elf on a Shelf and visited the Christmas Train for the first time. Christmas was good to us and we were blessed beyond measure. By Christmas I was officially 3 months pregnant and things were looking good. Even today, on the last day of the year we are taking Camden to his first OSU basketball game. Excited for the memories, and you can't beat free tickets! Thanks Heather!

Looking back on this year, we have been incredibly blessed. We have had our ups and downs, our questioning moments and our trials. But God always prevails, he never gives up on us, and he is faithful. He has brought us so much good out of such trying and scary times, that I can't help but tear up when thinking of all I DO have. We were so blessed by this pregnancy and that its timing fits perfectly into what needs to be done with further brain scans. I feel completely at ease with everything and know it's all in His hands.


By the way - We haven't announced on fb about our news and don't plan to yet, so those that are friends IRL (in real life), heads up!

Looking on to the next year my goals are simple: I want to continue to be the best mom to Camden, wife to Husband I can be. I want to be able to deliver a healthy baby and carry it healthy as well, spoil Camden in his last months as only child, and continue to learn and grow as a wife, mother, child of God. I started another year long reading plan, and other than that? My goals aren't too super ambitious. Just to take care of things. To take pictures. To love on my kid(s).

Happy New Year, friends!