Have any of you seen my camera cord?
Neither have I. Which is why this post is pictureless. Which is really sad, because I have so many cute pictures and even a couple videos of Hannah.
I'm enjoying Hannah so much lately. She gets more and more fun each week, and continues to be a very good baby. Her most recent achievements are finding her voice (she has the cutest coos, and has perfected her sigh), learning to use her hands to grab her toys, and sleeping all night long. Her longest stretch has been 9.5 hours, and it felt so good! Unfortunately, she doesn't sleep that well consistently...for example last night we were up every 2 hours. I suppose it'll come with time, and at least it's nice to know she's capable of such things.
The last month of our lives has been so busy. We had a bunch of Christmas festivities while my siblings were home from college. Then my sister got married on December 28th, so we had wedding stuff going on. Then we had New Years, and things calmed down for a little while until we made a quick trip over to Eastern Washington last week for my grandma's funeral. Hannah has been so good through all this, and I think I'm pretty lucky to have such an easy going baby.
Hopefully I'll be able to find my camera cord soon...Daniel cleaned the living room, and while I appreciate it a ton, I have no idea where it went. Wish me luck!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Saturday, December 18, 2010
All are welcome to attend!
We will be blessing Hannah in church on Sunday December 26th, at 9:00 am. I know it's early, but with a little girl this cute, you won't want to miss it!
This is her first smile caught on camera, and I love it.
At six weeks Hannah weighed in at 11 pounds 6 oz (90th percentile). The girl knows how to eat!
Somebody tell her to slow down, she's going to outgrow all her cute 3 month clothes before we even get a chance to enjoy them all!
Friday, December 3, 2010
more Hannah
Someday I'll post about something other than Hannah, but don't count on it for a while. She turned one month old on the first, and gave me the best gift a new mother could ask for: a smile while she was awake! It makes me think she actually likes me, and it melted my heart and made my day. I love this little girl and can't get enough of her. I weighed her on the 1st cause she doesn't have an appointment for a while, and she weighs 10 lb. now. I can't believe it...such a chunk already! Enjoy some more pictures!
mo
Friday, November 26, 2010
A Hannah update
I uploaded a bunch of pictures of Hannah to facebook a couple of days ago, but for those without facebook, here's a picture of my darling daughter!
At two weeks old, she weighed 8 pounds, which means she gained a pound in less than two weeks. It makes sense, considering how often she likes to eat. I love to see her plumping up, so I don't mind too much. It would be great however, if she would sleep on her own. She loves to be held, and I love to hold her, so we're trying to find a balance between cuddling and sleeping on her own during nap time and at night. It's still a work in progress, but she's still so new to life that I have to remember she's still just adjusting and learning.
At three weeks, she loves to lay on the floor and talk. She especially loves to talk to her Grandpa. My dad has always been so good with babies, and I can already tell Hannah is going to love him. Daniel and I left Hannah with my parents a couple of nights ago so we could run an errand, and when we got back, my dad was reading a baby book with Hannah, and she was so intent on the experience.
I don't have a lot of experience with newborns, but as far as I can tell, this one's just about perfect...(assuming she'll get night time sleeping down eventually!)
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thankful
If you're tired of reading thankful posts, you should probably skip this one, because it's about as thankful as it gets.
Today I'm thankful more than ever for so many things. At the top of my list is my family. I'm so thankful for Daniel and our sweet little baby Hannah. I'm thankful for the baby spit on my shirts, the sleep deprivation, the messy diapers, the sweet little smiles while she's sleeping, her happy sighs after feedings, I'm thankful for all of it.
A year ago, on Thanksgiving I began miscarrying my first pregnancy. It was a devastating thing for me. I felt abandoned, hopeless, and miserable. Life carried on as usual but it took me a long time to feel happy again. I would get home from work after holding back tears all day long, get in the shower and cry. Eventually time passed and I felt better each day, but I never forgot the sorrow I felt.
Now, a year later, I have a healthy, beautiful little baby girl. I'm so grateful for Hannah, I can sincerely say she's the best thing that has ever happened to me. Each day I feel like more of my selfishness is stripped away, and I become more of a mother, and more the kind of person I should be.
Of course I'm not grateful for the miscarriage, but I am grateful for the perspective it has given me. It made me look at pregnancy as a blessing. I enjoyed being pregnant with Hannah. I remember being thankful for the nausea because it meant things were going well, and each kick was reassuring. It has also made me endlessly thankful for Hannah. I feel so blessed to have a healthy baby that's thriving. I'm so grateful that that trial turned into a growth experience.
Looking back over the last year, I'm grateful for the growing and stretching I've done, both physically and spiritually. It has all lead me to this point, where I now sit with a sleepy little girl on my chest. So on this day of Thanksgiving, where we all pause to think about what we're most thankful for, I'm truly thankful for my family, and the growing we've done to get here.
Today I'm thankful more than ever for so many things. At the top of my list is my family. I'm so thankful for Daniel and our sweet little baby Hannah. I'm thankful for the baby spit on my shirts, the sleep deprivation, the messy diapers, the sweet little smiles while she's sleeping, her happy sighs after feedings, I'm thankful for all of it.
A year ago, on Thanksgiving I began miscarrying my first pregnancy. It was a devastating thing for me. I felt abandoned, hopeless, and miserable. Life carried on as usual but it took me a long time to feel happy again. I would get home from work after holding back tears all day long, get in the shower and cry. Eventually time passed and I felt better each day, but I never forgot the sorrow I felt.
Now, a year later, I have a healthy, beautiful little baby girl. I'm so grateful for Hannah, I can sincerely say she's the best thing that has ever happened to me. Each day I feel like more of my selfishness is stripped away, and I become more of a mother, and more the kind of person I should be.
Of course I'm not grateful for the miscarriage, but I am grateful for the perspective it has given me. It made me look at pregnancy as a blessing. I enjoyed being pregnant with Hannah. I remember being thankful for the nausea because it meant things were going well, and each kick was reassuring. It has also made me endlessly thankful for Hannah. I feel so blessed to have a healthy baby that's thriving. I'm so grateful that that trial turned into a growth experience.
Looking back over the last year, I'm grateful for the growing and stretching I've done, both physically and spiritually. It has all lead me to this point, where I now sit with a sleepy little girl on my chest. So on this day of Thanksgiving, where we all pause to think about what we're most thankful for, I'm truly thankful for my family, and the growing we've done to get here.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
hiccups
Here's a video we took of Hannah with the hiccups on Wednesday. She's just about the cutest thing ever, and we love her more each day! Over the last 24 hours she has been going two and a half hours between feedings (instead of one) which has made catching up on sleep more realistic.
We took her to her first Dr's appointment yesterday and at 4 days old she was
19.75 inches long (54%),
7 pounds 2 oz (29%)
and her head is 14" (63%)
I'm so thankful to have a healthy baby girl!
Friday, November 5, 2010
A birth story
A few months ago I started keeping a pregnancy journal updating it with my own thoughts/feelings experiences as I was pregnant with Hannah. It's formatted as letters to her (someday years from now, she'll enjoy reading them). It seemed fitting to add her birth story there. I started it when she was first born, but as I've learned, mothering comes before documenting...so it has been written slowly in a few spare minutes over the last few days. I've copied it here, for those that are interested.
Dear Hannah,
Today we finally got to meet. I want to first say how much I love you, even though we've only been together such a short time.
On Sunday evening we were playing games with my parents and Kevin like we usually do, and we ended the night looking at baby pictures of me. It made me so excited to meet you. That night, when your dad and I were in bed, I prayed that you would come quickly, maybe even that very morning. We had had such a good weekend, just the two of us once more, that we felt super ready to welcome you to our home and family.
At 12:54 on November 1st, I woke with a pop and a sudden gush of warm fluid. The first thing I said was 'Daniel, we're having a baby in the next 24 hours...my water just broke'. I then wandered around our apartment gathering last minute supplies we'd need at the hospital. The contractions started almost instantly and were coming hard and fast. On the way to the hospital they were about two minutes apart, and I was really uncomfortable. Since it was after regular hours, we had to park by the emergency room and walk all the way through the hospital. We had to stop several times so I could breathe through the contractions. Once we got to the family birth center, I sat down to do some check-in paperwork (which seemed to take forever, even though I was already pre-registered). As soon as we were done with the paperwork, I stood up and there was an even bigger gush that soaked through my pad, pants and even my shoes. I apologized, feeling bad I'd leaked all over the floor, but I'm sure they get that quite regularly.
Since I was clearly in labor (the wet pants made it pretty obvious) we got to skip the initial exam, and went straight to a labor and delivery room. I changed into the hospital gown and then they checked and I was already dilated to a five. This was probably only 45 minutes after my water broke, so I knew we were making progress fast!
Your dad was so great during labor, he held my hand and helped me remember my breathing techniques, and reassured me we were doing well. They checked my cervix again after another hour or so and I was between a seven and an eight. At this point, I was pretty miserable and asked for an epidural. They had told me earlier that the anesthesiologist was in an emergency c-section so I'd have to wait an hour to get one. After that hour, they said it might be another half an hour, and I got a little worried. Thankfully it came more quickly than that. It was the completely right decision for me. It allowed me to get a little break from the pain, and also make it through the next two and a half hours. After the epidural things slowed down just a little, and we were at a ten and ready to push around 4:00 in the morning. I spent the next two hours pushing and pushing. I got so tired we had to take a break for a while.
During the half an hour break, I was able to rest up and prepare to continue pushing. The epidural didn't numb my legs completely and I was still able to feel the contractions, so it really enabled me to push effectively without as much pain. It was perfect. After spending about an hour getting you past my pubic bone, things began to happen fast. They got the warming table ready and called in your nurse. When they told me it looked like you had at least an inch of hair, I wasn't really surprised, but it made me so excited to think about how close we were. Once we got your head pushed out, your body came right after and they called out 5:58 and placed you right on my stomach. You started crying really quickly and just looked up at me with your big eyes. In that moment, it was just you and I. The rest of the room was a bustle of activity, I remember hearing that you were still attached, and they asked me to push a couple more times. I followed instructions, but I was completely wrapped up with you. Sweet little you.
***
Now somehow, it's four days later. We've had lots of ups and downs with feeding and sleeping. You seem to be quite the night owl, enjoying meals every hour of the night instead of every two and a half like during the day. When you're eating you make the sweetest little squeaks and sighs, and when you're done, you make the most adorable faces. I know babies don't really smile at 4 days old, but some of your faces sure come close.
Hannah, I've never felt more love for anyone than I have since having you. Your dad and I are completely in love. We sit and watch you for hours, completely fascinated with all that you are! I've never seen your dad so happy. He's the best new daddy around. Even though we've had a couple struggles with feeding, It's so rewarding being able to know that I'm supporting you. As your mom, it's my job to provide what you need, and I am so willing. I will do everything I can to make sure you're healthy and happy. Hannah, I love you so much already, and I'll love you forever!
Love,
Mom.
Dear Hannah,
Today we finally got to meet. I want to first say how much I love you, even though we've only been together such a short time.
On Sunday evening we were playing games with my parents and Kevin like we usually do, and we ended the night looking at baby pictures of me. It made me so excited to meet you. That night, when your dad and I were in bed, I prayed that you would come quickly, maybe even that very morning. We had had such a good weekend, just the two of us once more, that we felt super ready to welcome you to our home and family.
At 12:54 on November 1st, I woke with a pop and a sudden gush of warm fluid. The first thing I said was 'Daniel, we're having a baby in the next 24 hours...my water just broke'. I then wandered around our apartment gathering last minute supplies we'd need at the hospital. The contractions started almost instantly and were coming hard and fast. On the way to the hospital they were about two minutes apart, and I was really uncomfortable. Since it was after regular hours, we had to park by the emergency room and walk all the way through the hospital. We had to stop several times so I could breathe through the contractions. Once we got to the family birth center, I sat down to do some check-in paperwork (which seemed to take forever, even though I was already pre-registered). As soon as we were done with the paperwork, I stood up and there was an even bigger gush that soaked through my pad, pants and even my shoes. I apologized, feeling bad I'd leaked all over the floor, but I'm sure they get that quite regularly.
Since I was clearly in labor (the wet pants made it pretty obvious) we got to skip the initial exam, and went straight to a labor and delivery room. I changed into the hospital gown and then they checked and I was already dilated to a five. This was probably only 45 minutes after my water broke, so I knew we were making progress fast!
Your dad was so great during labor, he held my hand and helped me remember my breathing techniques, and reassured me we were doing well. They checked my cervix again after another hour or so and I was between a seven and an eight. At this point, I was pretty miserable and asked for an epidural. They had told me earlier that the anesthesiologist was in an emergency c-section so I'd have to wait an hour to get one. After that hour, they said it might be another half an hour, and I got a little worried. Thankfully it came more quickly than that. It was the completely right decision for me. It allowed me to get a little break from the pain, and also make it through the next two and a half hours. After the epidural things slowed down just a little, and we were at a ten and ready to push around 4:00 in the morning. I spent the next two hours pushing and pushing. I got so tired we had to take a break for a while.
During the half an hour break, I was able to rest up and prepare to continue pushing. The epidural didn't numb my legs completely and I was still able to feel the contractions, so it really enabled me to push effectively without as much pain. It was perfect. After spending about an hour getting you past my pubic bone, things began to happen fast. They got the warming table ready and called in your nurse. When they told me it looked like you had at least an inch of hair, I wasn't really surprised, but it made me so excited to think about how close we were. Once we got your head pushed out, your body came right after and they called out 5:58 and placed you right on my stomach. You started crying really quickly and just looked up at me with your big eyes. In that moment, it was just you and I. The rest of the room was a bustle of activity, I remember hearing that you were still attached, and they asked me to push a couple more times. I followed instructions, but I was completely wrapped up with you. Sweet little you.
***
Now somehow, it's four days later. We've had lots of ups and downs with feeding and sleeping. You seem to be quite the night owl, enjoying meals every hour of the night instead of every two and a half like during the day. When you're eating you make the sweetest little squeaks and sighs, and when you're done, you make the most adorable faces. I know babies don't really smile at 4 days old, but some of your faces sure come close.
Hannah, I've never felt more love for anyone than I have since having you. Your dad and I are completely in love. We sit and watch you for hours, completely fascinated with all that you are! I've never seen your dad so happy. He's the best new daddy around. Even though we've had a couple struggles with feeding, It's so rewarding being able to know that I'm supporting you. As your mom, it's my job to provide what you need, and I am so willing. I will do everything I can to make sure you're healthy and happy. Hannah, I love you so much already, and I'll love you forever!
Love,
Mom.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Hannah
Hannah is here! She came quickly on Monday morning and weighed 7 pounds 6 oz. I'll post more of the story later, but for now we're just loving this little girl and wanted to share a picture!
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Happy Halloween
Halloween this year has been pretty uneventful, which is good, since I do not want a baby born on Halloween. A couple of weeks ago we had the Halloween Party we go to every year. Our last minute costume attempt was to go as a pool shark and an eight ball. This was our one and only picture of our costumes, and our first successful attempt at using the self timer on our camera.
Monday, October 25, 2010
I'm ready.
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| some of the ladies from the church baby shower |
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| a beautiful baby blanket |
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| my mother-in-law and mom at my church baby shower |
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| the hair bows, onesies, and 'H' which were lovingly crafted at my baby shower |
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| the crib quilt I designed and my mom created! |
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| 38 weeks (and no signs of imminent labor) |
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the bassinet my mother-in-law decorated
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Friday, October 22, 2010
nostalgic, hormonal, thoughtful, emotional
I'm currently feeling all of the above, all at once.
This morning on my way into work, I almost started tearing up, and I'm not sure why.
We all know how much I love my job. I've been looking forward to leaving this job for a long time, and now that it's getting closer I'm still excited, don't get me wrong, but I'm having weird little surges of emotions (hormones?) that are confusing.
My current plan is to work until I'm in labor, so really I don't know when my last day will be. For all I know, it could be today, or I could still have 2-3 weeks here.
My mom had all of my siblings and me 1-3 weeks early, so I was raised hearing how the only way to get to your due date was with a baby in your arms. This has given me some expectations. Even though there's no reason for me to have this baby early, I've been hoping for/almost expecting it. Today, I'm 38 weeks, and as far as I can tell, I'm no closer to going into labor now, than I have been in the past week or two. But then, who really knows. Apparently these things can change in minutes.
Also, I can't imagine myself having a baby. It's such a foreign concept to me. I get that I'm pregnant, and each kick, or hiccup means there is in fact a baby in there, but somehow it's still so unreal. I haven't spent that much time around newborns, so I'm really hoping I'll know what to do when all of a sudden I have one of my own. Somebody please tell me it comes naturally!
At this point, I think I'm as ready as I'll ever be. I've got my hospital bag packed, tiny baby clothes washed and neatly folded, the carseat is ready, camera battery is charged, I've got my thank you cards written (need to get stamps still), I guess I'm just going to enjoy waiting somewhat patiently for the big day.
This morning on my way into work, I almost started tearing up, and I'm not sure why.
We all know how much I love my job. I've been looking forward to leaving this job for a long time, and now that it's getting closer I'm still excited, don't get me wrong, but I'm having weird little surges of emotions (hormones?) that are confusing.
My current plan is to work until I'm in labor, so really I don't know when my last day will be. For all I know, it could be today, or I could still have 2-3 weeks here.
My mom had all of my siblings and me 1-3 weeks early, so I was raised hearing how the only way to get to your due date was with a baby in your arms. This has given me some expectations. Even though there's no reason for me to have this baby early, I've been hoping for/almost expecting it. Today, I'm 38 weeks, and as far as I can tell, I'm no closer to going into labor now, than I have been in the past week or two. But then, who really knows. Apparently these things can change in minutes.
Also, I can't imagine myself having a baby. It's such a foreign concept to me. I get that I'm pregnant, and each kick, or hiccup means there is in fact a baby in there, but somehow it's still so unreal. I haven't spent that much time around newborns, so I'm really hoping I'll know what to do when all of a sudden I have one of my own. Somebody please tell me it comes naturally!
At this point, I think I'm as ready as I'll ever be. I've got my hospital bag packed, tiny baby clothes washed and neatly folded, the carseat is ready, camera battery is charged, I've got my thank you cards written (need to get stamps still), I guess I'm just going to enjoy waiting somewhat patiently for the big day.
Friday, October 15, 2010
An update of sorts
It's the middle of October. I'm not sure how, but it is. My baby count down says 21 days to go, which means we've made it full term. It's a joyous thing, being full term, just waiting for the arrival of our baby girl. It's also relatively draining.
After working all day I'm tired. I get home, and set small goals for myself.
Last night for example, I plopped down in the recliner for a brief sit, and decided I could do three things:
Even though it feels like time has stopped, there are several things which suggest that it has not.
Hope you all have a good weekend too!
After working all day I'm tired. I get home, and set small goals for myself.
Last night for example, I plopped down in the recliner for a brief sit, and decided I could do three things:
- Get out of the recliner
- Take off my ring and put it in the bedroom for safe keeping (my fingers look a bit like sausages at the end of the day)
- Grab my suitcase from our storage room outside our front door. (I have not yet packed for the hospital...this weekend perhaps?)
Even though it feels like time has stopped, there are several things which suggest that it has not.
- The milk in our refrigerator expires after my due date. I've been waiting a lot of months for this to happen.
- I go to the doctor's weekly now.
- On Monday I was already 1 cm dilated and 50% effaced. (is it too awkward to talk about my cervix on this blog?)
- I've been having irregular contractions since my appointment on Monday. who knows if this means anything, but I guess we'll see.
- I'm in the process of training my replacement at work. She's been here for 2 weeks now, and I feel like I need a lot more time to teach her everything.
- Realistically we've got anywhere between a couple more days and a month left.
- It's Halloween time, which in and of itself is weird. Wasn't I just posting about our July activities???
- The Halloween party we go to each year is on Saturday and we're scrambling to come up with creative costume ideas for a super pregnant person. Last year we won 'Best costume', this year we'll be lucky to show up with costumes! I had seen the idea of going as two garbage bags, mine would be labeled 'I'm heafty' and Daniel's would say 'I'm Glad'...my idea has been vetoed, so now we're at a loss.
- I'm teaching Relief Society this Sunday (the last time before I have a baby!)
Hope you all have a good weekend too!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
For Nicole
One of my oldest and dearest friends, Nicole, followed her dreams and moved to Hawaii with her husband this summer. While she's enjoying life in paradise, she has requested some pregnancy pictures...
I suppose I've put it off long enough, so here you go Nicole, enjoy a bit of the progression of the belly!
Things are still going very smoothly for this pregnancy and I am so grateful! We had our last night of child birth class last night, which included a hospital tour. While we were there, we heard a brand new baby cry for the first time. It was a very surreal experience. I can't believe that in about 5 weeks, that will be us. I expected that these would be the longest 9 months of my life, and they've basically flown by. I just need somebody to assure me that the next 5 weeks will go quickly too! I'm getting so excited to hold this little baby in my arms. We've got her nursery set up, some clothes washed and folded, the car seat ready, all we're waiting for is the grand arrival of our little baby girl!
I've got a baby shower at work on Friday, and then a church baby shower on the 9th. I'll make sure to take pictures to post. Lots to look forward to in the next few weeks! I suppose I'll have to be better at updating this old blog of mine!
I suppose I've put it off long enough, so here you go Nicole, enjoy a bit of the progression of the belly!
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| 17 weeks, and convinced I was already showing! |
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| 21 weeks and actually showing! |
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| 26 weeks and still growing! |
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| 34 weeks, 5 days and not sure how much bigger I'm going to get! I think I should stick to taking pictures on Sunday instead of after a long day at work...I'm looking less than cute, and larger than ever here! |
Things are still going very smoothly for this pregnancy and I am so grateful! We had our last night of child birth class last night, which included a hospital tour. While we were there, we heard a brand new baby cry for the first time. It was a very surreal experience. I can't believe that in about 5 weeks, that will be us. I expected that these would be the longest 9 months of my life, and they've basically flown by. I just need somebody to assure me that the next 5 weeks will go quickly too! I'm getting so excited to hold this little baby in my arms. We've got her nursery set up, some clothes washed and folded, the car seat ready, all we're waiting for is the grand arrival of our little baby girl!
I've got a baby shower at work on Friday, and then a church baby shower on the 9th. I'll make sure to take pictures to post. Lots to look forward to in the next few weeks! I suppose I'll have to be better at updating this old blog of mine!
Thursday, September 2, 2010
once upon a summer evening
When we were in Idaho, Daniel and I had a chance to sneak away from the family reunion festivities and catch a double feature at the drive-in. We saw Despicable Me, and Robin Hood. We both loved Despicable me, and of course, I slept through Robin Hood, but Daniel says it was a good one. I was looking through pictures this evening and had to post this. Please excuse the double chin and grainy exposure. It was pretty dark out, but it's a fun picture to remember our date to the drive-in. With a baby coming in less than 10 weeks, I kind of doubt we'll be pulling late nights like this for a while!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
thoughts on protein, weather, and pregnancy.
- Work has been so busy for the last week, that my days have flown by. I have to say, it's a nice feeling to be productive all day and have time move quickly. I know this is a normal thing for a lot of people, but my job is the type where there is more down time than actual work required.
- Yesterday was the most beautiful rainy day. I don't like days of rain on end, but a rainy day after weeks of warm sunshine is quite refreshing.
- Daniel and I planned a month long menu of meals for September. I'm hoping this will mean less cereal for dinner and more real food...specifically protein.
- I've been noticing weird things about being pregnant. I think it's something to do with the third trimester, because up until this point, I haven't had any complaints.
- a week and a half ago I was out on a Saturday morning shopping with my mom. In the middle of a store I started getting really light headed and nauseous. We left the store and went to sit in the car, where I proceeded to pass out a couple times. This was kind of a scary experience (perhaps more for my mom than me) and I ended up in the emergency room (which for women who are more than 20 weeks pregnant is labor and delivery). I was told that I was dehydrated and needed to eat more protein. They didn't run any tests or labs, but determined protein was the answer. I'm now on a bit of a protein kick and have had to change my eating habits. Of course I'm grateful everything turned out fine, but it was a weird occurrence.
- about a week after my little Saturday morning jaunt to the hospital I woke up at 2:00 in the morning with my mouth bleeding. I can't figure out what would have caused this, other than pregnancy...or maybe it's tied into the lack of protein as well. I've heard weird things happen in Pregnancy, and it seems to me like my body has saved them all for the third trimester.
- I decided to break out my cashmere polka dot scarf today. I know it's technically still summer, but after yesterdays rain and the grey sky this morning, it sounded like the right decision. Also, I'm getting bored with my seven maternity shirts, so this was a good way to mix it up.
- I'm done with work in 8 minutes and on tonight's menu is Baked Potato Soup. Can you tell I'm feeling fall?
Monday, August 16, 2010
Saturday
It was a great weekend, even if it was so busy that I've got a dryer full of whites waiting to be folded (they've been there since Thursday night).
I've been thinking however, that one of the best parts of summer is the busyness. I love having lots to do and enjoy.
We needed an oil change and tire rotation, and I had this idea that if we didn't have our car at the shop right when it opened, wouldn't be able to get anything else done that day. So I dragged Daniel out of bed at 7:45 to make it to the shop by 8:00 so I could make it to the triathlon by 8:30. We were the only ones there, but it was nice to get that out of the way.
Early Saturday morning, I helped with this years triathlon. Directing biker traffic was so, so much easier than participating. A couple of people actually asked if I was participating. I would have thought the 28 week pregnant belly would have been obvious, but perhaps not. I enjoyed cheering for all those who did participate, because it made me remember all too clearly the emotional aspect of such a race.
My busy day had a quiet interlude where I had a quick lunch and prepared my Relief Society Lesson on the Church during Christ's time.
After lunch Daniel and I did our grocery shopping (got some great produce at Fred Meyers), picked up our car from the shop, and then retreated to my parents pool. There's nothing better than swimming on a hot summer afternoon. The rest of the evening we spent enjoying the pool and their air conditioning.
We ended the trip with a second trip to Fred Meyer after a helpful tip-off from my mom that they had men's shorts on clearance for $7.00. Daniel was down to one pair, so this wasn't something to pass up. He's now got a couple more pairs and should be good for the rest of the summer.
It was 10:30 when we finally got home, and I decided a root beer float was necessary for putting the finishing touches on my lesson. It was an easy decision really. I'd been having a couple days of near constant hunger(which leads me to think this little baby is starting a growth spurt!), and who knows the next time I'll be able to justify carrot cake after dinner, and a root beer float before bed! (Thank goodness I passed my gestational diabetes test!)
I've been thinking however, that one of the best parts of summer is the busyness. I love having lots to do and enjoy.
We needed an oil change and tire rotation, and I had this idea that if we didn't have our car at the shop right when it opened, wouldn't be able to get anything else done that day. So I dragged Daniel out of bed at 7:45 to make it to the shop by 8:00 so I could make it to the triathlon by 8:30. We were the only ones there, but it was nice to get that out of the way.
Early Saturday morning, I helped with this years triathlon. Directing biker traffic was so, so much easier than participating. A couple of people actually asked if I was participating. I would have thought the 28 week pregnant belly would have been obvious, but perhaps not. I enjoyed cheering for all those who did participate, because it made me remember all too clearly the emotional aspect of such a race.
My busy day had a quiet interlude where I had a quick lunch and prepared my Relief Society Lesson on the Church during Christ's time.
After lunch Daniel and I did our grocery shopping (got some great produce at Fred Meyers), picked up our car from the shop, and then retreated to my parents pool. There's nothing better than swimming on a hot summer afternoon. The rest of the evening we spent enjoying the pool and their air conditioning.
We ended the trip with a second trip to Fred Meyer after a helpful tip-off from my mom that they had men's shorts on clearance for $7.00. Daniel was down to one pair, so this wasn't something to pass up. He's now got a couple more pairs and should be good for the rest of the summer.
It was 10:30 when we finally got home, and I decided a root beer float was necessary for putting the finishing touches on my lesson. It was an easy decision really. I'd been having a couple days of near constant hunger(which leads me to think this little baby is starting a growth spurt!), and who knows the next time I'll be able to justify carrot cake after dinner, and a root beer float before bed! (Thank goodness I passed my gestational diabetes test!)
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Camping part 1
The weekend after we got back from Idaho, we joined our good friends Joey and Brianne on a little camping trip. This was something new for Daniel and I. In the five years we've been together (our 4th wedding anniversary is coming up in a couple weeks) we'd never gone camping. I actually didn't think we'd ever go camping, as Daniel is the kind of guy that really prefers being comfortable to being outside sleeping on an air mattress.
Anyway, we couldn't turn down the invitation to try camping with our friends, and it worked out to be a really great time. I was hesitant about camping at 25 weeks, seeing as I usually have a couple trips to the bathroom in the middle of the night and at a State Park, you never know how close to the bathroom you'll be, or ow scary/sanitary the bathrooms are.
We ended up camping at Sequim Bay State Park, and had a site that was almost right across from a surprisingly clean restroom. It worked out perfectly, and I had no complaints.
Camping part 2, our excursion to visit the Dungeness Spit coming soon!
Anyway, we couldn't turn down the invitation to try camping with our friends, and it worked out to be a really great time. I was hesitant about camping at 25 weeks, seeing as I usually have a couple trips to the bathroom in the middle of the night and at a State Park, you never know how close to the bathroom you'll be, or ow scary/sanitary the bathrooms are.
We ended up camping at Sequim Bay State Park, and had a site that was almost right across from a surprisingly clean restroom. It worked out perfectly, and I had no complaints.
I'd never been to Sequim before but I'd heard it was the driest spot in all of Washington. When we got there, it looked more like we were in California, and it was perfectly sunny and warm without a cloud in the sky. I can definitely see going back there maybe in the winter, for a break from all the rain we get! Here are some pictures from the first part of our adventure!
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The view along Hwy 101 on the way up the Peninsula |
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| Apparently Sequim is known for its lavender fields. This was a lavender farm we stopped at. |
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| Yes, we tried Lavender Ice Cream...it tasted good going down, but burping lavender essence hours later wasn't so great. |
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| There was a wedding going on at the farm. It was such a nice day and a beautiful backdrop. |
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| I don't have anything to say about this picture, except I was camping...not my most glamorous moment (and still feeling frumpy)! |
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| Daniel was putting his Eagle Scout skills to use monitoring the fire...ha! |
Camping part 2, our excursion to visit the Dungeness Spit coming soon!
Friday, July 30, 2010
July activities part 1
Did I mention that Daniel and I went on a road trip a couple weeks ago? No? How clumsy of me.
Anyway very early a couple Wednesday mornings ago, we got all loaded up and drove with my two younger brothers to Driggs, ID. Our route looked a lot like this...and took about 14 hours.
Even though we made good time, and had no traffic it was still a long day! When we pulled our tired bodies into Grandma Green's driveway in Driggs, it was such a relief to be there. My Grandma Green is the sweetest little lady, and it had been three years since I'd seen her last. One of her traditions is to make a quilt for each of her grand children that get married. There were several weddings in 2006, and she had just finished our quilt in time for us to take it home with us.
This quilt is so beautiful and I know how much time Grandma puts into a quilt. I'm pretty sure I'll always love it!
The next happening on our road trip was when Daniel and I ventured to Rexburg. I should explain that we moved from Rexburg 3 years ago, and it took me all three years before I was ready to go back, even for a visit. One of my best friends and former roommates still lives there, and was kind enough to take some time off work to hang out with us. When we moved from Rexburg, they hadn't completed the Temple, so I knew it was going to have to be one of the first things we checked out.
After checking out the temple, we gave my little brother a quick tour of BYU-I, where he is thinking of attending in a couple years. There have been so many changes on campus that I hardly recognized a couple of the buildings. It was neat to be back, and I remember why I loved going to school there.
We finished our little trip to Rexburg with all you can eat pizza at Craigos. It was to die for. I have missed that pizza more than anything else about that town. I had way too many pieces, so if you think I look pregnant in the pictures above, I'm sure it was exemplified after stuffing myself with lunch. We also picked up Sonic happy hour drinks on the way back to Driggs. I love that place. We got three huge drinks for $2.69.
Clearly the high points of my trip involved more food than should be consumed in one afternoon. I had to pack it all in though, because we don't have either a sonic or craigos in Olympia, and it's hard to justify a 14 hour road trip just for pizza.
The next couple of days were spent at a huge Green Family Reunion in Teton Valley, and because I'm not the greatest blogger ever, I didn't take a single picture and don't have much to say about it. It was very fun to see cousins that I haven't seen in years, and I got an awesome farmers tan. I think it comes with the location.
I'll have another vacation post of last weekends activities coming up soon, so stay tuned for a camping trip at 25 weeks pregnant!
a lesson learned
Don't you just love it when things work out?
On Monday evening, I had my first moment of panic about becoming a mother. I'm not sure what set it off, but I was momentarily terrified and anxious. I know that six and a half months into a pregnancy isn't the time to start second guessing ones decision to start a family, but I was nervous. Daniel, calm as always, pointed out that nobody is ever really ready for a baby, and you make it work ready or not. As true as his words were, they didn't help too much, and I still felt worried about all the prep work that hadn't been done.
I was overwhelmed thinking about all the options and decisions that need to be made. What will she sleep in, where will we put her, the list went on and on, eventually spiraling down to my potential ability (or lack thereof) to mother. In my prayers that night I specifically asked to be blessed as I try to prepare to be a mother and that things will work out.
The next day I felt guilty about these negative thoughts, like somehow our baby would know that for one night, I was worried, that I questioned whether we had made the right decision. It left me feeling shaken most of that day. Like I was living in a fog. I didn't like it.
On Tuesday, I set out to do what I do best when feeling unsettled. I whipped out an excel spreadsheet and made a list of what I had determined to be baby essentials and their cost both new and used. (Something about that excel page just puts my mind at ease...)
On my list I had:
Bassinet/co-sleeper/cradle
Crib
Swing
Changing Table
Dresser
The next step in my plan was to take that list and try to visit some yard sales this weekend and see if anything came about, when my mom called me at work this morning. She and my dad, (both work for the public schools and have summers off) had been out at a yard sale and found a crib, changing table and dresser all for $35 and they were in good condition and pretty new. Even my used, low cost estimate for these items was at least four times that much.
After a couple cellphone pictures and phone calls exchanged Daniel and I made a quick decision that this is going to be the best deal we'll find, and that we'd be crazy not to snatch it up. Yes, the crib set is white, and we'd been looking at a cherry/espresso finish, but that doesn't really matter. Heavenly Father knew I was worried about being prepared, about finding a good deal, about getting these little details figured out, and he prepared a way.
I'm trying to be better about acknowledging His hand in my life. Seeing that He actively guides me and watches out for me, and this was a perfect example of that. I'm grateful for this experience and grateful that my parents were in the right place at the right time looking out for me.
I love it when things work out.
On Monday evening, I had my first moment of panic about becoming a mother. I'm not sure what set it off, but I was momentarily terrified and anxious. I know that six and a half months into a pregnancy isn't the time to start second guessing ones decision to start a family, but I was nervous. Daniel, calm as always, pointed out that nobody is ever really ready for a baby, and you make it work ready or not. As true as his words were, they didn't help too much, and I still felt worried about all the prep work that hadn't been done.
I was overwhelmed thinking about all the options and decisions that need to be made. What will she sleep in, where will we put her, the list went on and on, eventually spiraling down to my potential ability (or lack thereof) to mother. In my prayers that night I specifically asked to be blessed as I try to prepare to be a mother and that things will work out.
The next day I felt guilty about these negative thoughts, like somehow our baby would know that for one night, I was worried, that I questioned whether we had made the right decision. It left me feeling shaken most of that day. Like I was living in a fog. I didn't like it.
On Tuesday, I set out to do what I do best when feeling unsettled. I whipped out an excel spreadsheet and made a list of what I had determined to be baby essentials and their cost both new and used. (Something about that excel page just puts my mind at ease...)
On my list I had:
Bassinet/co-sleeper/cradle
Crib
Swing
Changing Table
Dresser
The next step in my plan was to take that list and try to visit some yard sales this weekend and see if anything came about, when my mom called me at work this morning. She and my dad, (both work for the public schools and have summers off) had been out at a yard sale and found a crib, changing table and dresser all for $35 and they were in good condition and pretty new. Even my used, low cost estimate for these items was at least four times that much.
After a couple cellphone pictures and phone calls exchanged Daniel and I made a quick decision that this is going to be the best deal we'll find, and that we'd be crazy not to snatch it up. Yes, the crib set is white, and we'd been looking at a cherry/espresso finish, but that doesn't really matter. Heavenly Father knew I was worried about being prepared, about finding a good deal, about getting these little details figured out, and he prepared a way.
I'm trying to be better about acknowledging His hand in my life. Seeing that He actively guides me and watches out for me, and this was a perfect example of that. I'm grateful for this experience and grateful that my parents were in the right place at the right time looking out for me.
I love it when things work out.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
my plan of attack
For the first time all summer, it has been hot! I love summer, and I don't want to complain about the sunshine or heat. So I've been creating a plan of attack for surviving the long hours stuck at my desk
For those who don't remember, I work in an old brick building and when the sun comes out, it's a lot like an oven. On these warm summer days, it's hard to stay cool at work. Yesterday I tried my luck with an icee from Target. It was good, but melted really quickly, and wasn't quite what I was looking for. Today on my lunch break, I had to get gas, and since the Costco closest to my work, is conveniently close to Jamba Juice, and I had a $1 off coupon, and a gift card I couldn't resist. I didn't even mind waiting in line for Gas at Costco, as I got to enjoy the air conditioning a little longer. I'm also looking forward to a meeting in an air conditioned building in an hour.
More than any of that however, I'm looking forward to 5:00, when I can get off work and go swim at my parents pool. I went last night for an hour and a half and it was quite refreshing.
Here's to hoping the sunshine sticks around for the weekend for more swimming!
For those who don't remember, I work in an old brick building and when the sun comes out, it's a lot like an oven. On these warm summer days, it's hard to stay cool at work. Yesterday I tried my luck with an icee from Target. It was good, but melted really quickly, and wasn't quite what I was looking for. Today on my lunch break, I had to get gas, and since the Costco closest to my work, is conveniently close to Jamba Juice, and I had a $1 off coupon, and a gift card I couldn't resist. I didn't even mind waiting in line for Gas at Costco, as I got to enjoy the air conditioning a little longer. I'm also looking forward to a meeting in an air conditioned building in an hour.
More than any of that however, I'm looking forward to 5:00, when I can get off work and go swim at my parents pool. I went last night for an hour and a half and it was quite refreshing.
Here's to hoping the sunshine sticks around for the weekend for more swimming!
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