Well I had hoped to post some fun Christmas photos but we've has some sick babies in our house this past 2 weeks. Starting with Keira, then Callie and now Luke who has gotten the worst of it. Bless his little heart. :( It started with a runny nose and lots of drainage and then caused an awful cough. Callie had it pretty bad too but now is almost 100% better. Luke however got a fever starting Thursday so we made a trip to the pediatrician only to hear there's not much we can do. I was relieved to find out that it wasn't the flu and there is no ear infection (yet). So for now we have to let it run it's course. He has had 102 fever for 3 days so I'm having to keep him pumped up on Motrin. He won't take Tylenol because of the nasty flavor and even Motrin I have to sneak into his bottle. Which is really interesting since several times he gets to choking so bad on all the snot that he throws up most of what he just drank. It's been a rough week; I have been covered in snot and spit up daily and lucky to get a shower every other day! It's just not pretty y'all. To top it off, he has been teething for weeks now and I think his first 2 bottom teeth are finally about to break through!! He is not too happy most of the time that he is awake and prefers to be held and then rocked to sleep. I have a feeling once he is well, we will have some habits to break.
I was looking forward to the New Year, getting a start on many new things I hope to accomplish & instead I'm just surviving. But that's ok, I'm trying to take it slow and just be here for the little ones. School starts back Monday for Keira and Tuesday for Callie. As much as I am ready to be back in a routine, I'm going to miss the little boogers being at home. But not the fighting!!
As we speak (ahem,type) I am doing a little multi-tasking uploading over 100 pics to Shutterfly, all taken with my new camera!! Hopefully I will get a chance to post some of them here in a day or two. Let's pray Luke is on the mend!! And mama stays well!
Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Merry Christmas!!
We had a beautiful, wonderful, blessed Christmas! I tried out my new camera & hope to post a few of the photos tomorrow. But for now, here are a few from our Christmas card photo shoot.
Love the colors in the background!
He loves to stand!
Sweet girls
Loving baby brother!
There were several good ones so I was happy. Luke was trying to eat the leaves when we were in the grass and when we were on this bridge he kept going for the shiny nail heads he could see in the wood. It was too cute. Love my family!!
Merry Christmas and good night!!
Love the colors in the background!
He loves to stand!
Sweet girls
There were several good ones so I was happy. Luke was trying to eat the leaves when we were in the grass and when we were on this bridge he kept going for the shiny nail heads he could see in the wood. It was too cute. Love my family!!
Merry Christmas and good night!!
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Luke's Newborn Photos
I'm a bit overdue on posting these, to say the least, but I figure better late than never!! Time is just flying by with my precious Luke and I just can't stand it. Already I can look at these photos and look at him now, and think "Wow!" He has grown so much.
My friend Kelly came to our house to take these when Luke was about 3 weeks old. She did such a great job and we got a ton of good pictures!
Here are some of my favorites.
Our first picture as a "new" family again!
LOVE this one of my three angels!!
Love that sweet face!!
I wonder what he was dreaming about here
Peekaboo!
Love that hat!
Me and the babies!!
Crazies!
This one is for Daddy :)
Is that not the sweetest face you've ever seen!?! I'm so in love!
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Summer Smoothie
It's definitely HOT here in Texas!!! Being July and all you know. To stay cool I love to make this healthy smoothie drink for me and the girls. It's a great alternative to the normally syrupy popsicles and sno-cones we indulge in a lot during the summer months. What's great about this recipe is that the only sugar in it is that occurring naturally from the fruit or milk/juice. My girls get very excited when I tell them we are making smoothies. They love to help and they think of it as a treat while I am happy they are getting in some good nutrients! It is full of vitamin C, fiber and protein.
You can change it up however you like and we often use most of the same ingredients but alternate a few things based on what we have on hand. Here is what is usually in our smoothie:
Summer Smoothie
- 1/4 cup OJ
- 1/4 cup milk
- Small container of greek yogurt, any flavor
- Handful of ice cubes, maybe 7-8
- One banana
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen rasberries
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 4-5 strawberries
For an extra healthy boost, add:
- 1-2 TBSP of ground flax seed
For a sweeter smoothie, add:
- 2 TBSP honey
I have to admit that I don't usually measure ingredients on this, just pour the liquids til it looks right and toss in handfuls of fruit. If the consistency is too thick, add a little more milk.
Pour everything into the blender and blend for 15-20 seconds or so depending on your blender. Serve it up in a fun or colorful cup, pop in a straw and enjoy!
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Luke's Birth Story
Let me start off by saying Luke's birth story went way different than I had thought it might go, but the good part is there was a happy ending!!
I had hoped to go into labor on my own, but when I reached 39 weeks we decided to schedule an induction. I wasn't opposed to being induced since I had been through it with both of the girls. With Kevin having a work trip planned out of town only a week after Luke's due date, I really wanted to make sure we had a little recovery time together.
I went in at 6am on Wednesday April 18th and got my IV right away and the pitocin was started. I was at 3cm dilation, a little progress since my last Dr appt on Monday the 16th. I thought for sure we'd have this baby by lunch time! Keira had been born at 3:06 pm (first baby needed lots of pushing!) and Callie at 11:58 am. So I thought surely this boy would be born within that time frame!!! My Dr came in and broke my water around 8am and soon after I was ready for the epidural at 4cm.
When the anesthesiologist came in, he went over the possible complications with an epidural and for some reason I got a bad feeling. I've never been scared of the needle because usually the pain pales in comparison to the contractions! My contractions weren't too bad yet though and I was trying to stay ahead of the pain. At first try he got the epdiural in pretty easily but just a minute later my heart started racing and I was totally freaked out! The Dr took out the line and said he had to re-do it, some of the medicine was getting into my bloodstream and that was causing my heart to race. I had never experienced this before and the feeling of your heart racing faster and not being in control of it was so scary. He tried it again and the same thing happened. I watched my heart rate go up on the monitor from around the 80's range to the 90's, 100, 110, 120, 125 then he pulled out the line and it would recover to normal. Finally on the third try he got the epidural in correctly!!! Immediately I started getting the chills and shakes. I know this is a common side effect from the epidural medicine but I had never had them with the girls. Definitely not fun!!! Eventually I got comfortable and was able to relax a bit and chat with Kevin and my mom.
The nurses checked me every now and then and I progressed to 6cm within maybe 2 hours. I was feeling pretty good about everything! But after a few checks and no progress I started to worry. The nurses called my Dr and let her know. She came over around 1:00pm and checked me and mine and the baby's monitors. She said I should have progressed beyond the 6cm by then, especially since this was my third baby. My contractions were still steady, but with each one Luke's heart rate started to drop lower and lower, sometimes to the 60's! Then it would recover up to the 120's but then go down with each contraction. This obviously was not a good sign. She checked me to make sure the cord was not wrapped around his neck and all was clear. They couldn't figure out what was causing him to become so stressed and why I was not progressing. His head was also not engaging as well and he remained up high in my abdomen. After watching and waiting for another half hour, my Dr told me she didn't like the stress it was putting on my baby,and with 4 cm still to go, it wasn't looking good for a vaginal delivery. I never had imagined a c-section would be possible after 2 successful vaginal births and Luke had been head down, ready to go! I knew I had to do what was best for him and didn't want him to be deprived of oxygen at any point or risk any further complications.
I began to cry knowing the c-section was inevitable. My husband was sweet and comforting and my mom was there as well to reassure me that everything would be ok. Within a few minutes everyone was ready to go and they wheeled me back into the OR. Kevin came in looking adorable in his scrubs and mask :) The anesthesioligist pumped up the meds and made sure I was good and numb!! That was one of my many questions, how do they know if I am numb enough or not!!?? I was asking 20 questions, being the control freak that I am and then he asked me "Are you always like this?" "Like what?" I said. "So inquisitive, asking a million questions and have to be in control!?" "Um, yes!!!" Then he asked me if I had ever had a surgery before. "No! That is why I am asking a million questions! Wouldn't you!?"
The surgery was quick, maybe 10 minutes. I was a little freaked out by the oxygen mask they put on me and had to remove it. I have a little issue with clostraphobia. Thankfully they didn't tie my hands down, just made me spread them out to my sides. Kevin was right by my head and ready for pictures. He didn't really watch much of the surgery but looked up just as they were pulling him out and snapped a photo. Luke was born at 1:56pm, red and just a wailing!! There is nothing more precious than that, seeing your baby for the first time. Meeting that little person who had lived inside you for 9 months, whose kicks & somersaults you had felt and finally seeing what they look like. Of course he was adorable!!
He weighed a healthy 8 lbs and 4 oz! A big, big boy!!! He is 2lbs over what Callie weighed and 1 and half more than Keira. I knew he would be a bigger baby but never thought he'd quite reach 8 lbs.
As she was getting ready to get him out, my Dr said she had found the source of the problem with me not progressing. Poor baby had the cord wrapped around his leg about 3 times. There was an indention where it had been that lasted a good 24 hours. His leg was stuck up high by the cord and the placenta which were on my left side near my rib cage. With every contraction the cord was squeezing him, causing his heart rate to drop and preventing him from descending down into the birth canal. I am so thankful we got him out when we did and that there was no permanent damage. My nurse told me later while in recovery that they had had a patient before who's daughter was born with the cord wrapped around her wrist. It had been that way for several weeks and the baby's hand had actually stopped growing, or died and had to be amputated. How terrible!!!! I just could not imagine.
A happy ending is what we got for sure in this beautiful baby boy. A c-section is nothing compared to the gift I received in a healthy baby! I thank God for his many blessings and for bringing us through that experience safely.
Recovery was a little more painful compared to a traditional delivery. I think having 2 kiddos already adds much more stress on you and it took several weeks for me to feel somewhat normal. Kevin had to leave 9 days after Luke's birth. It was rough but we survived. My mom stayed with us for 3 nights and then my dad and stepmom came into town. Everyone was a huge help. I had a tremendous amount of support from friends who brought so many meals. We didn't cook for almost 3 weeks!
There were definitely some rough moments and there were times I thought I was never going to feel better. Now at 10 weeks, I can look back and see how quickly it all passes and how amazing the human body is.
We have adjusted pretty well so far as a family of 5. The girls are just eating him up!! We're getting into a routine and I hope to post lots of pictures of them together.
Right after I get some sleep!! :)
I had hoped to go into labor on my own, but when I reached 39 weeks we decided to schedule an induction. I wasn't opposed to being induced since I had been through it with both of the girls. With Kevin having a work trip planned out of town only a week after Luke's due date, I really wanted to make sure we had a little recovery time together.
I went in at 6am on Wednesday April 18th and got my IV right away and the pitocin was started. I was at 3cm dilation, a little progress since my last Dr appt on Monday the 16th. I thought for sure we'd have this baby by lunch time! Keira had been born at 3:06 pm (first baby needed lots of pushing!) and Callie at 11:58 am. So I thought surely this boy would be born within that time frame!!! My Dr came in and broke my water around 8am and soon after I was ready for the epidural at 4cm.
When the anesthesiologist came in, he went over the possible complications with an epidural and for some reason I got a bad feeling. I've never been scared of the needle because usually the pain pales in comparison to the contractions! My contractions weren't too bad yet though and I was trying to stay ahead of the pain. At first try he got the epdiural in pretty easily but just a minute later my heart started racing and I was totally freaked out! The Dr took out the line and said he had to re-do it, some of the medicine was getting into my bloodstream and that was causing my heart to race. I had never experienced this before and the feeling of your heart racing faster and not being in control of it was so scary. He tried it again and the same thing happened. I watched my heart rate go up on the monitor from around the 80's range to the 90's, 100, 110, 120, 125 then he pulled out the line and it would recover to normal. Finally on the third try he got the epidural in correctly!!! Immediately I started getting the chills and shakes. I know this is a common side effect from the epidural medicine but I had never had them with the girls. Definitely not fun!!! Eventually I got comfortable and was able to relax a bit and chat with Kevin and my mom.
The nurses checked me every now and then and I progressed to 6cm within maybe 2 hours. I was feeling pretty good about everything! But after a few checks and no progress I started to worry. The nurses called my Dr and let her know. She came over around 1:00pm and checked me and mine and the baby's monitors. She said I should have progressed beyond the 6cm by then, especially since this was my third baby. My contractions were still steady, but with each one Luke's heart rate started to drop lower and lower, sometimes to the 60's! Then it would recover up to the 120's but then go down with each contraction. This obviously was not a good sign. She checked me to make sure the cord was not wrapped around his neck and all was clear. They couldn't figure out what was causing him to become so stressed and why I was not progressing. His head was also not engaging as well and he remained up high in my abdomen. After watching and waiting for another half hour, my Dr told me she didn't like the stress it was putting on my baby,and with 4 cm still to go, it wasn't looking good for a vaginal delivery. I never had imagined a c-section would be possible after 2 successful vaginal births and Luke had been head down, ready to go! I knew I had to do what was best for him and didn't want him to be deprived of oxygen at any point or risk any further complications.
I began to cry knowing the c-section was inevitable. My husband was sweet and comforting and my mom was there as well to reassure me that everything would be ok. Within a few minutes everyone was ready to go and they wheeled me back into the OR. Kevin came in looking adorable in his scrubs and mask :) The anesthesioligist pumped up the meds and made sure I was good and numb!! That was one of my many questions, how do they know if I am numb enough or not!!?? I was asking 20 questions, being the control freak that I am and then he asked me "Are you always like this?" "Like what?" I said. "So inquisitive, asking a million questions and have to be in control!?" "Um, yes!!!" Then he asked me if I had ever had a surgery before. "No! That is why I am asking a million questions! Wouldn't you!?"
The surgery was quick, maybe 10 minutes. I was a little freaked out by the oxygen mask they put on me and had to remove it. I have a little issue with clostraphobia. Thankfully they didn't tie my hands down, just made me spread them out to my sides. Kevin was right by my head and ready for pictures. He didn't really watch much of the surgery but looked up just as they were pulling him out and snapped a photo. Luke was born at 1:56pm, red and just a wailing!! There is nothing more precious than that, seeing your baby for the first time. Meeting that little person who had lived inside you for 9 months, whose kicks & somersaults you had felt and finally seeing what they look like. Of course he was adorable!!
He weighed a healthy 8 lbs and 4 oz! A big, big boy!!! He is 2lbs over what Callie weighed and 1 and half more than Keira. I knew he would be a bigger baby but never thought he'd quite reach 8 lbs.
As she was getting ready to get him out, my Dr said she had found the source of the problem with me not progressing. Poor baby had the cord wrapped around his leg about 3 times. There was an indention where it had been that lasted a good 24 hours. His leg was stuck up high by the cord and the placenta which were on my left side near my rib cage. With every contraction the cord was squeezing him, causing his heart rate to drop and preventing him from descending down into the birth canal. I am so thankful we got him out when we did and that there was no permanent damage. My nurse told me later while in recovery that they had had a patient before who's daughter was born with the cord wrapped around her wrist. It had been that way for several weeks and the baby's hand had actually stopped growing, or died and had to be amputated. How terrible!!!! I just could not imagine.
A happy ending is what we got for sure in this beautiful baby boy. A c-section is nothing compared to the gift I received in a healthy baby! I thank God for his many blessings and for bringing us through that experience safely.
Recovery was a little more painful compared to a traditional delivery. I think having 2 kiddos already adds much more stress on you and it took several weeks for me to feel somewhat normal. Kevin had to leave 9 days after Luke's birth. It was rough but we survived. My mom stayed with us for 3 nights and then my dad and stepmom came into town. Everyone was a huge help. I had a tremendous amount of support from friends who brought so many meals. We didn't cook for almost 3 weeks!
There were definitely some rough moments and there were times I thought I was never going to feel better. Now at 10 weeks, I can look back and see how quickly it all passes and how amazing the human body is.
We have adjusted pretty well so far as a family of 5. The girls are just eating him up!! We're getting into a routine and I hope to post lots of pictures of them together.
Right after I get some sleep!! :)
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Blogging Hiatus
Well I didn't intend to be gone so long but having a 3rd baby will definitely zap into your free time! Of course I have been enjoying my time snuggling with Luke and getting to know him. He is such a wonderful, sweet baby! I can't wait to share photos of him :)
It has taken a little time adjusting and we have also had 2 sets of grandparents visit, Callie's 3rd birthday and Kevin had a week long work trip as well. So with all of that we have been keeping very busy!!!
Tomorrow is Keira's last day of school. This school year has gone by so fast! I have so many things planned for us this summer & I just need the time to sit down and organize our calendar so we have a fun, productive one.
I miss my blogging time so I'm hoping to be back very soon to share all of our recent happenings and photos!!
It has taken a little time adjusting and we have also had 2 sets of grandparents visit, Callie's 3rd birthday and Kevin had a week long work trip as well. So with all of that we have been keeping very busy!!!
Tomorrow is Keira's last day of school. This school year has gone by so fast! I have so many things planned for us this summer & I just need the time to sit down and organize our calendar so we have a fun, productive one.
I miss my blogging time so I'm hoping to be back very soon to share all of our recent happenings and photos!!
Sunday, April 29, 2012
He's Here!!!
My precious baby boy, Luke Francis was born Wednesday, April 18th at 1:49pm. He weighed 8lbs 4 oz and was 20.5 inches long!! We have just been loving him to death. He is the best baby so far, sleeps like a dream and only cries during diaper changes or when he's really hungry. What a blessing he has been!
I had intended on posting of his arrival much sooner, but his delivery was not all roses so I've been in a sleepy, drugged up haze since his birth! Today I feel like I may have turned a corner just a tad and am looking forward to feeling a little better each day.
He's waking up from a nap now, time to eat!! But I will post his birth story as soon as I can!
Monday, April 16, 2012
Baby update- 39 weeks!
I'm anxiously waiting to meet our little boy!!! I was 39 weeks yesterday. It's hard to believe the time is just about here, but at the same time it feels like I have been pregnant forever. I can't remember what it feels like to have a normal body, or what my stomach used to look like.
Last Wednesday I had an appt with my OB and I was still at 1cm dilated, same as past 2 weeks. We started talking about possible induction for this week. I was really hoping to go into labor on my own since I have never experienced that before. I was induced with my first (Keira) at 39 weeks due to gestational diabetes, and with my second (Callie) at 38.5 weeks mostly because of convenience, having Keira in her last day of preschool. My due date is Sunday, April 22nd. So today at 39 weeks and 1 day, I'm officially more pregnant than I've ever been!! I have had several false alarms- too many crazy braxton hicks contractions and other aches and pains- that I thought for sure he was coming! But NADA.
Waiting it out wouldn't be too bad but my husband has a huge annual work conference beginning April 30th that he really needs to attend that is out of state. My mom lives close and my dad and step mom will be in town part of the time he is gone so I feel like I will be ok as long as we have a little time at home to adjust as a family.
This morning I went back to the Dr and I'm still at a "loose" 1 cm and thinned out just a tad. A little dissappointing but I think it should all go well. We decided to go ahead and schedule an induction for Wednesday morning!! Both girls will be in school and my mom can pick them up and bring them up to see the baby after he's born. If all goes well with delivery and the baby, we should be home Friday.
With just 2 days left before his arrival, I've been busy finishing up my Spring cleaning and baby to-do list. Last week I got the fridge and pantry all stocked and this weekend Kevin hung the curtains in his room. Today I washed windows on our patio, swept the garage and finished up some laundry. I should be able to finish everything up tomorrow. I'm definitely running low on the "nesting" energy!
Here are a few pictures of the room with the paint and bedding so far. The room is coming along, I bought a few wall art pieces from Etsy & have the changing table in there as well. I also have some shelves to hang. Right now it is difficult to get everything completed until we remove the double bed. This was our former guest room, and with family coming in town immediately after the birth we needed a place for them to stay. We have a bassinet in our room for him to sleep for the first month or so. Once it is all completed, I will post pictures of the whole room!
Callie was so excited to help get the crib up for baby!
The wall color is a light blue/turquoise, it's called La Fonda Mirage by Valspar from Lowe's. I'm so glad it turned out exactly like I wanted!
A more close up of the bedding.
And here I am at 38 weeks. Still need to take one more photo tomorrow!
Sleeping has gotten more and more difficult, but I keep telling myself that any sleep I am getting now is more than I will get once he is here!
Last Wednesday I had an appt with my OB and I was still at 1cm dilated, same as past 2 weeks. We started talking about possible induction for this week. I was really hoping to go into labor on my own since I have never experienced that before. I was induced with my first (Keira) at 39 weeks due to gestational diabetes, and with my second (Callie) at 38.5 weeks mostly because of convenience, having Keira in her last day of preschool. My due date is Sunday, April 22nd. So today at 39 weeks and 1 day, I'm officially more pregnant than I've ever been!! I have had several false alarms- too many crazy braxton hicks contractions and other aches and pains- that I thought for sure he was coming! But NADA.
Waiting it out wouldn't be too bad but my husband has a huge annual work conference beginning April 30th that he really needs to attend that is out of state. My mom lives close and my dad and step mom will be in town part of the time he is gone so I feel like I will be ok as long as we have a little time at home to adjust as a family.
This morning I went back to the Dr and I'm still at a "loose" 1 cm and thinned out just a tad. A little dissappointing but I think it should all go well. We decided to go ahead and schedule an induction for Wednesday morning!! Both girls will be in school and my mom can pick them up and bring them up to see the baby after he's born. If all goes well with delivery and the baby, we should be home Friday.
With just 2 days left before his arrival, I've been busy finishing up my Spring cleaning and baby to-do list. Last week I got the fridge and pantry all stocked and this weekend Kevin hung the curtains in his room. Today I washed windows on our patio, swept the garage and finished up some laundry. I should be able to finish everything up tomorrow. I'm definitely running low on the "nesting" energy!
Here are a few pictures of the room with the paint and bedding so far. The room is coming along, I bought a few wall art pieces from Etsy & have the changing table in there as well. I also have some shelves to hang. Right now it is difficult to get everything completed until we remove the double bed. This was our former guest room, and with family coming in town immediately after the birth we needed a place for them to stay. We have a bassinet in our room for him to sleep for the first month or so. Once it is all completed, I will post pictures of the whole room!
Callie was so excited to help get the crib up for baby!
The wall color is a light blue/turquoise, it's called La Fonda Mirage by Valspar from Lowe's. I'm so glad it turned out exactly like I wanted!
A more close up of the bedding.
And here I am at 38 weeks. Still need to take one more photo tomorrow!
Sleeping has gotten more and more difficult, but I keep telling myself that any sleep I am getting now is more than I will get once he is here!
Saturday, March 17, 2012
We Signed up to Sponsor a Child Through Compassion International!
The thought of this is something that has been on my mind a lot lately. I'm not sure why it took me a while to finally make the leap and jump in. As a long time reader of Money Saving Mom, I have read her posts about the children she sponsors through this program and more recently how the proceeds from her first book are ALL going to support a very special program at Compassion International. In reading her more recent post detailing her trip to the Dominican Republic to meet some of the women and children she will be helping, I was moved to tears. While reading this with my 5 yr old daughter sitting nearby, I decided that God was speaking to me that now was the time to sponsor our own child. Keira is at the age where she is understanding more and more and wanting to do things to help others. I showed her some of the pictures from Crystal's trip, of the extreme living conditions and she was shocked that there are people who have to live that way.
As soon as I suggested we should sponsor our own child, she was excited to get on it right away. We went to the Compassion website where you can learn all about how to sponsor a child, the cost and what it provides for them and how to communicate with the child you are sponsoring. You also choose which child you want to sponsor by searching through the photos and information of children seeking sponsorship. We didn't want to go through narrowing down by a certain country of residence or age, but instead chose to choose a child who was designated by a red heart on their picture showing they had been waiting longer for sponsorship. We chose a 6 yr old girl who has been waiting over 196 days. Also her birthday happens to be next month so we thought it was perfect timing!
Now that we have signd up to be a sponsor, we should receive a packet in the mail in 1-2 weeks with more information on the child we chose and more details on how the sponsorship works. It doesn't take much to get started and the whole process is very quick and easy. Basic sponsorship begins at just $38.00 per month, per child.
Per the Compassion website, this amount provides so many things, including:
- The opportunity to hear the Gospel and learn about Jesus
- More Christian Training
- Education opportunities
- Supplemental Food if needed
- Health Care
- Hygiene Training
- Loving Christian environment & Guidance
Besides the monetary contribution, you are encouraged to write to your child, send photos and pray for them and their families. I can't wait to get our packet and the girls are so excited to write letters and draw pictures to send to her!! I know this is going to be an ongoing blessing to all of us as well as a teaching opportunity to our children. I'm looking forward to the journey!!
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Tuesday, February 28, 2012
How Do I Keep My Head Above Water?
As a mom, sometimes it’s one of the hardest things to admit. With all of our responsibilities and expectations, both of what others have for us and what we put on ourselves, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But we often times are the last ones to ask for help or acknowledge that we are struggling.
I have these days from time to time and honestly feel a little guilty. Guilty that maybe I am not loving my children to the fullest or giving them the attention they need. Guilty that I should be getting X, Y & Z done, and why can’t I seem to accomplish simple daily activities. Guilty that I do not always find pleasure in the sometimes tedious tasks of making lunches, folding laundry, helping with homework, volunteering for school functions, special school assignments, menu planning, making dinner. On top of other household responsibilities like grocery shopping, paying bills, scheduling repair men, scheduling Dr visits, care of the pet, decorating the home, gardening etc. Oh and lest we not forget CLEANING! It’s a never ending cycle. Once I finish one task, it seems things just multiply in its place! I’m really struggling with finding the perfect balance. Don't get me wrong, I love my family to death and I know that God has trusted me with these wonderful blessings called children. Sometimes, it's just really hard.
In addition I have two part time jobs, am a member of a MOPS goup (which I love), school PTA, do Bible study and am a member of my local Junior League. All of which I enjoy, for the most part. At this current stage in my life, I have 2 children and another on the way, due in April. At 32 weeks pregnant, I find my patience is sorely lacking. I can blame some of it on the pregnancy and some of it on the fact that maybe I am not managing my time well? Maybe I am expecting too much from myself or have very unrealistic expectations? All of this has been weighing heavily on me lately and the thought of adding another child to the mix fills me with anxiety. I have gotten better at "saying no" and know my limits as far as my volunteerism goes with these other organizations. I do feel I need the time away from home from time to time and I really look forward to the bonding time with other moms that these other outlets provide. But perhaps something has got to give.
What I am coming to realize is, I CAN’T DO IT ALL. And I think, maybe that’s ok. I do know that giving myself some grace and trusting in God to lead the way is the best I can do. It's going to be a constant battle but I hope I can find some peace in my heart and the right balance for me and my family. Definitely a work in progress!
I would love to hear from other parents who are struggling with these feelings and how do you deal with it? How are you keeping it all together??
P.S. I’m participating in a blogging event through Blogelina , an online blogging resource for a wealth of information with all things blogging! Check her out!
Friday, February 24, 2012
A Peek into our Week
This past week we had gorgeous weather, 70's & even 80 yesterday! We had some fun outdoors getting the garden ready for Spring planting and the girls played in their sandbox, blew bubbles, went to the park with friends & just enjoyed the sunshine!
Here is a cute shot I got of them in our backyard blowing bubbles. I love the sunshine streaming right down on them.
Remember the sunflower & watermelon seeds the girls and I planted almost 2 weeks ago? Well we placed them in our laundry room which gets a good bit of daily sunlight. The girls anxiously checked on them every day. At the end of week one, Callie's watermelon seeds had some growth!
I was actually surprised that the first one to sprout was the watermelon. I thought for some reason it would be the sunflower seeds as they must be easier to grow. Keira was dissappointed her seeds had not sprouted yet and we had started to give up hope. But we still checked daily, as Callie would say "Wet's go see sissy's pwant".
And, after several more days, success!
We planted 4 seeds in each pot and got 3 sprouts from the watermelon and just one from the sunflower. Now if we can only find a good place to transplant them and keep them alive!
Yesterday I went to a huge moving sale with a friend and Callie. I found several baby boy outfits while Callie entertained herself playing with all of their children's toys for sale. When it was time to pay and go, Callie said "wait, i see something" as she was looking in a box of small misc toys. I said "Ok well it's time to leave" and she insisted so I went to see what she was looking at. I saw a little "Nemo" fish and thought that was what she was wanting. But then I saw a tiny little Woody figure and knew that was it. I got it out for her and asked how much and the owner said she could have it. I'm sure she is just glad to be getting rid of toys! He is literally like 2.5 inches tall & Callie was so pleased to get him.
Now I have to tell you the back story on why this Woody means so much:) Last week we ran out of Callie's kid toothpaste and she refuses to use the same kind as sister. So we made a drug store run and picked her up a new kind with Toy Story characters on the tube. Who knew she would get so attached to a tube of toothpaste!! She was so happy and began talking to Woody and carrying this toothpaste with her everywhere for 2 days. She read Woody stories, put Woody down for nap, swang him in the swing outside, and even took him to bed with her. It was hilarious!! I wish I had gotten a picture of her in action. So then I told Kevin, I have got to get her a little Woody doll so she will stop carrying this toothpaste everywhere! Even when we went to the garage sale, she had it with her in the car and almost took him with her but I got her to leave him behind. I didn't want her to lose it and also figured I would get a strange look or questions about why she is carrying her toothpaste around!! So, as you can see, finding this tiny little Woody figure at the bottom of a toy box was the highlight of our day!!
Callie with Woody 1 and 2
It's so fun to see how something so small and simple can make her so happy! She has been carrying Woody (#2) with her everywhere and to bed at night. I am not looking forward to the day where he inevitably gets lost, but until then we are making fun memories!
Here is a cute shot I got of them in our backyard blowing bubbles. I love the sunshine streaming right down on them.
Remember the sunflower & watermelon seeds the girls and I planted almost 2 weeks ago? Well we placed them in our laundry room which gets a good bit of daily sunlight. The girls anxiously checked on them every day. At the end of week one, Callie's watermelon seeds had some growth!
I was actually surprised that the first one to sprout was the watermelon. I thought for some reason it would be the sunflower seeds as they must be easier to grow. Keira was dissappointed her seeds had not sprouted yet and we had started to give up hope. But we still checked daily, as Callie would say "Wet's go see sissy's pwant".
And, after several more days, success!
We planted 4 seeds in each pot and got 3 sprouts from the watermelon and just one from the sunflower. Now if we can only find a good place to transplant them and keep them alive!
Yesterday I went to a huge moving sale with a friend and Callie. I found several baby boy outfits while Callie entertained herself playing with all of their children's toys for sale. When it was time to pay and go, Callie said "wait, i see something" as she was looking in a box of small misc toys. I said "Ok well it's time to leave" and she insisted so I went to see what she was looking at. I saw a little "Nemo" fish and thought that was what she was wanting. But then I saw a tiny little Woody figure and knew that was it. I got it out for her and asked how much and the owner said she could have it. I'm sure she is just glad to be getting rid of toys! He is literally like 2.5 inches tall & Callie was so pleased to get him.
Now I have to tell you the back story on why this Woody means so much:) Last week we ran out of Callie's kid toothpaste and she refuses to use the same kind as sister. So we made a drug store run and picked her up a new kind with Toy Story characters on the tube. Who knew she would get so attached to a tube of toothpaste!! She was so happy and began talking to Woody and carrying this toothpaste with her everywhere for 2 days. She read Woody stories, put Woody down for nap, swang him in the swing outside, and even took him to bed with her. It was hilarious!! I wish I had gotten a picture of her in action. So then I told Kevin, I have got to get her a little Woody doll so she will stop carrying this toothpaste everywhere! Even when we went to the garage sale, she had it with her in the car and almost took him with her but I got her to leave him behind. I didn't want her to lose it and also figured I would get a strange look or questions about why she is carrying her toothpaste around!! So, as you can see, finding this tiny little Woody figure at the bottom of a toy box was the highlight of our day!!
Callie with Woody 1 and 2
It's so fun to see how something so small and simple can make her so happy! She has been carrying Woody (#2) with her everywhere and to bed at night. I am not looking forward to the day where he inevitably gets lost, but until then we are making fun memories!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Happy Valentine's Day!
This morning Callie and I met Keira at school for her "Bananas about You" brunch for Valentine's Day. All of the Kindergarten & 1st grade students gathered in the cafeteria for waffles, fruit and yogurt and parents were invited to share in this with their children. Keira always loves it when she has a school visitor! She is also having an afternoon classroom party but sadly we have to miss it since it is during Callie's nap time. Last night she finished all of her princess Valentine's cards and couldn't wait to give them out today!
My sweet girls!
Friday night her school had a Valentine Dance and she took Daddy as her date. She thought she might be a little embarassed to dance with him but I think she quickly got over it! He said they had a great time and she loved seeing & dancing with her friends. They also had limo rides that took them around the school which she thought was so cool!
A little blurry action shot.
Tonight we are planning to eat in & miss the crowds! I'm making Seafood Gumbo for Kevin and I but still deciding on what to make for the girls. Then I thought maybe I will take them out for ice cream as a treat. Yum! But I have to be honest, it's probably just as much for me since I have been craving ice cream so much lately!!!
Have a great Valentine's Day! Hope your day is special and spent with those you love!
Friday night her school had a Valentine Dance and she took Daddy as her date. She thought she might be a little embarassed to dance with him but I think she quickly got over it! He said they had a great time and she loved seeing & dancing with her friends. They also had limo rides that took them around the school which she thought was so cool!
Tonight we are planning to eat in & miss the crowds! I'm making Seafood Gumbo for Kevin and I but still deciding on what to make for the girls. Then I thought maybe I will take them out for ice cream as a treat. Yum! But I have to be honest, it's probably just as much for me since I have been craving ice cream so much lately!!!
Have a great Valentine's Day! Hope your day is special and spent with those you love!
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Itching for Spring! (My trip to Lowe's)
One of the many things I did this past week was make a trip to Lowe's to browse the garden goodies and also get some paint samples for baby boy's room and get some materials for a shelving project.
Even though it is still February (and was below freezing this morning!) I am already anxious to get my Spring garden planted. Last year was my first year with my vegetable garden and it was a lot of fun and was successful for the most part! In Texas (Zone 8) we can start earlier than many other states but still have to wait until the last frost. I'm hoping to have everything planted by the end of March, first of April before this baby arrives!!!
I still have a little work to do to prepare the beds. I need to turn the soil and add a top layer of compost to it. This weekend it was way too cold for that so I am hoping one day this week to get that accomplished. Many of the root vegetables can be planted now as seeds, like carrots and also potatoes, along with onions, lettuce, spinach. My sweet neighbor gave me several of her potato roots and leftover carrot and beet seeds to get started. I can't wait to plant them!! In a few weeks I can plan out the rest of my garden and what I want to plant when, based on their growing season. More on a separate post!
Of course I had to bring something home to get my Spring Fever fix, so I bought this little Begonia plant to brighten up my kitchen island until the weather warms up. Isn't she cute?
I also could not pass up these fun little seed starter kits for the girls. One is sunflowers and the other one is for watermelon. I have never grown either of these before so I'm curious to see how they do. It will take about 7 days to germinate. Once they sprout we can plant them in the garden.
They were so excited to help place the seeds in and water them. Goofy picture-Callie was saying "cheese" very enthusiastically!
Now Keira has been checking on hers every day, patiently waiting to see the first signs of green life peeking out. It is so fun to watch them and see how they are learning how plants grow and what they need to survive.
After our garden purchase I picked up several paint samples for baby boy's room and also some wood for a shelving project for his room. I found this easy project from Knock Off Decor that I can't wait to try! I will keep you posted!
Even though it is still February (and was below freezing this morning!) I am already anxious to get my Spring garden planted. Last year was my first year with my vegetable garden and it was a lot of fun and was successful for the most part! In Texas (Zone 8) we can start earlier than many other states but still have to wait until the last frost. I'm hoping to have everything planted by the end of March, first of April before this baby arrives!!!
I still have a little work to do to prepare the beds. I need to turn the soil and add a top layer of compost to it. This weekend it was way too cold for that so I am hoping one day this week to get that accomplished. Many of the root vegetables can be planted now as seeds, like carrots and also potatoes, along with onions, lettuce, spinach. My sweet neighbor gave me several of her potato roots and leftover carrot and beet seeds to get started. I can't wait to plant them!! In a few weeks I can plan out the rest of my garden and what I want to plant when, based on their growing season. More on a separate post!
Of course I had to bring something home to get my Spring Fever fix, so I bought this little Begonia plant to brighten up my kitchen island until the weather warms up. Isn't she cute?
I also could not pass up these fun little seed starter kits for the girls. One is sunflowers and the other one is for watermelon. I have never grown either of these before so I'm curious to see how they do. It will take about 7 days to germinate. Once they sprout we can plant them in the garden.
They were so excited to help place the seeds in and water them. Goofy picture-Callie was saying "cheese" very enthusiastically!
Now Keira has been checking on hers every day, patiently waiting to see the first signs of green life peeking out. It is so fun to watch them and see how they are learning how plants grow and what they need to survive.
After our garden purchase I picked up several paint samples for baby boy's room and also some wood for a shelving project for his room. I found this easy project from Knock Off Decor that I can't wait to try! I will keep you posted!
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Stock Show Fun!
This past weekend my husband and I took the girls to the FW Stock Show & Rodeo. We had been before but not since Callie was born. Sunday turned out to be gorgeous and was a perfect day for being outdoors. They had so much fun!
Here are some pictures we took.
They have a free petting zoo which Keira loves to get up close and feed the animals. Callie wanted no part of it so she watched with daddy.
There was a small pony, a lamma, several goats, chickens, rabbits and a kangaroo!
We walked through several of the buildings that were housing the cattle. Most of the horses were gone already. They were getting ready for a heifer show and so many of them were being groomed. There were so many beautiful animals!
Saw this one cow who had this sign over its stall and had to take a picture, the mother was named Caroline :)
They had an entire room full of rabbits who were being shown by young teenagers who had been breeding and raising them. So many I had never seen before. These were the only animals Callie was comfortable getting close to!
We also went through a few shopping areas and then headed on over to the carnival rides & games.
Callie was too small to ride most of the rides but was able to if Kevin went with her.
Keira rode mostly "big kid" rides but still loves the Carousel!
This one she was so proud to ride by herself!
After several rides they gorged themselves on pink cotton candy!! We stayed til about 4pm & Callie did so well missing her nap time. They were both pretty tired on the way home. Even all of that sugar did not keep Callie from falling asleep in the car! She was out just minutes after we left the parking garage. I wish I had a picture of that!
I'm glad we were able to do this with them before the baby arrives. I have a feeling we won't be going a whole lot of places at first with 3 kiddos! It's going to take a while to get the hang of it!
Here are some pictures we took.
They have a free petting zoo which Keira loves to get up close and feed the animals. Callie wanted no part of it so she watched with daddy.
There was a small pony, a lamma, several goats, chickens, rabbits and a kangaroo!
We walked through several of the buildings that were housing the cattle. Most of the horses were gone already. They were getting ready for a heifer show and so many of them were being groomed. There were so many beautiful animals!
Saw this one cow who had this sign over its stall and had to take a picture, the mother was named Caroline :)
They had an entire room full of rabbits who were being shown by young teenagers who had been breeding and raising them. So many I had never seen before. These were the only animals Callie was comfortable getting close to!
We also went through a few shopping areas and then headed on over to the carnival rides & games.
Callie was too small to ride most of the rides but was able to if Kevin went with her.
Keira rode mostly "big kid" rides but still loves the Carousel!
This one she was so proud to ride by herself!
After several rides they gorged themselves on pink cotton candy!! We stayed til about 4pm & Callie did so well missing her nap time. They were both pretty tired on the way home. Even all of that sugar did not keep Callie from falling asleep in the car! She was out just minutes after we left the parking garage. I wish I had a picture of that!
I'm glad we were able to do this with them before the baby arrives. I have a feeling we won't be going a whole lot of places at first with 3 kiddos! It's going to take a while to get the hang of it!
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