I'm still trying to get a handle on balancing life with two little boys. I'm only 3 months into it - so still very much a rookie, but I really want to love my family WELL, you know? I want my home to be a haven for Kev when he comes home from work and school. I want my friends to know that they can drop by at any moment and they will be welcomed with a hug, some tea, and a yummy snack. I want them to leave my place feeling loved and refreshed. I want to give the Lord the firstfruits of my day and be constantly and continuously falling deeper in love with Him so that I view life from His eyes, and not my own. AND I want to spend individual quality time with both of my little boys doing what THEY love to do.
For Kaden this means when Jesse is down for his naps, rather than running around like a crazy woman trying to catch up on dishes and laundry, I need to get us both a fun snack and sit and read for a half hour. Or maybe it means going outside in the blazing heat after taking time to sunscreen and bug dope him all over and catch bugs and worms in our backyard. For Jesse it means I give lots of snuggles and touches - ESPECIALLY when he's fussy and savor this time even when he's a wreck rather than wish it away, complain about my aching back, or stress about my half finished supper plans!
It means fully embracing life where I am at right now and letting everything else fall by the wayside for a season. It doesn't matter if I perpetually have bugs roaming my apartment because Kaden can't resist peaking in. It doesn't matter if my home doesn't meet up with my usual expectations of cleanliness and orderliness. It doesn't matter if I don't get showered and make-up on until noon. And it doesn't really matter if my do-list doesn't get done for months on end. It's okay. Relationships are what matter. Everything else is just details......
Progress is Being Made!
Our little guy may just be evening out. I'm still not holding my breath, but a week from now is Jesse's three month mark - right about the same time that Kaden started relaxing a little, too. We shall see. He goes down for the night without a hitch and sleeps through until about 6:30 a.m. He is beginning to soothe himself to sleep better for naps - still decent bouts of crying - but nothing in comparison to what he was doing. And he is having longer and longer moments of pleasantness periodically throughout the day, as well! :0) Good times! The naps are still wicked short, so that's the next thing I really want to start working on with him. Any suggestions?
Today was a really great day. Kev didn't start class today like he thought he did, and the weather was absolutely gorgeous, so we just packed up and went to a local State Park for the day. We all played in the river, Kev and Kaden caught a bass, Jesse slept in his swing some, and Kaden and I caught crayfish, minnows, and about twenty-five toads - no joke - it was crazy! Kaden missed his nap and fell asleep at 5:00 on our drive home, so we just popped him right into bed for the night! Jesse is now down, as well, so Kev and I are going to crash on the couch and watch a movie. I'm off!
Today was a really great day. Kev didn't start class today like he thought he did, and the weather was absolutely gorgeous, so we just packed up and went to a local State Park for the day. We all played in the river, Kev and Kaden caught a bass, Jesse slept in his swing some, and Kaden and I caught crayfish, minnows, and about twenty-five toads - no joke - it was crazy! Kaden missed his nap and fell asleep at 5:00 on our drive home, so we just popped him right into bed for the night! Jesse is now down, as well, so Kev and I are going to crash on the couch and watch a movie. I'm off!
Baby Steps
I feel like a tiny bit of progress is being made where Jesse is concerned. He continues to be quite the horrible napper and quite the professional at screaming......but, he is starting to have longer moments of happiness and contentment, as well! Jesse is starting to like his swing more, and I can leave his sight for awhile and have him still stay relatively happy. As he is becoming more aware of his surroundings, I think that he is being entertained a little bit longer at a time. The "diet" is going pretty well. He doesn't seem to be noticing too much that Mommy has been cutting his feedings in half. At times, I think it makes him grumpier - but really no more than he ever has been! He's also going down for the night around 7:30 and only wakes up once in the night - often going between 6 and 8 hour stretches. So, these are mini victories - helpful in keeping the big picture in perspective. On the other hand, I think that I'm starting to have some serious back issues due to the long periods of carrying this not-so-little guy....either that or I'm just getting old. Probably both. Ah well - it's all good!
The Homeward Stretch
Next week marks the beginning of hubby's final year here at PBU. My, how the time has flown - and it really has been quite the fun ride! Earlier this summer, we were the only couple left in our apartment complex, but now the rooms are quickly filling up once again. There is only one other couple besides us who are from the group that initially moved in. So, for this last year, there will only be two families with children. All the rest will be newlyweds and senior students. I kinda' feel bad for the newlyweds who will be living above and below us with our fussy baby, and all. Hey, it'll be good birth control if nothing else! :0)
Yup, the complex was kinda' quiet this summer. It was good for the early days of Jesse's birth, but now I'm liking the busy commotion, the crazy greetings from kids who've missed each other, and all of the U-hauls that are bringing new couples in. It makes the place come alive again!
So, this is it for us! Only one more year for Kev, and as of tonight I am done! Done! Done! The next big thing? Well, besides continuing to figure out the "being-Mommy-to-two" thing, I'm going to be getting trained in the Clarion Consulting ministry (like Kev was) at the end of September. We'll see what adventures spring from this undertaking!
Yup, the complex was kinda' quiet this summer. It was good for the early days of Jesse's birth, but now I'm liking the busy commotion, the crazy greetings from kids who've missed each other, and all of the U-hauls that are bringing new couples in. It makes the place come alive again!
So, this is it for us! Only one more year for Kev, and as of tonight I am done! Done! Done! The next big thing? Well, besides continuing to figure out the "being-Mommy-to-two" thing, I'm going to be getting trained in the Clarion Consulting ministry (like Kev was) at the end of September. We'll see what adventures spring from this undertaking!
Jesse Update.....
Jesse had his two month check-up last week. Just wanted to give you all a brief update on what's going on with him and us. Currently he weighs almost 18 pounds - this is the size of a typical six month old! He has gained just about a pound a week since birth! The pediatrician is not worried YET, but she says that his weight is not only off the charts, but it is now "skyrocketing." Soooo, our little guy truly is on a diet now! She said that every once in awhile she'll see this happen with a nursing baby - it's more common with formula fed babies, but it does happen. Very weird - Kaden has never had a chubby bone on his body and he nursed much more than Jesse does. Interesting.
So now, not only do I have to be really strict with the times of his feedings, I also have to cut them in half! She wants to see if this rapid weight gain is due to my milk before he has his blood tested for diabetes, metabolic issues, or whatever. We're not really worried, but it's just made it that much more fun with an already fussy baby!
And for our further enjoyment, not only does Jesse continue to be a wretched napper and a fairly crabby baby - he also gets to have his meals cut in half which makes for an even CRABBIER baby. Mommy's had a few VERY overwhelming days. Many days of perpetual crying and screaming. (Jesse....not me. :0) I'm doing okay. I know that this too, shall pass, so I'm trying to keep perspective. Although some days are REEEEEEALY long. I owe many friends and family members phone calls, but lately it's a little hard to carry on conversations amidst the hollering! It's okay, though. I'm still really trying to savor this season of babyhood. Soon enough, he'll be a little boy running all around.
On a bright note - Friday is my very last class where my very last paper is due and then I am officially GRAJITATED! That will be one thing that I can get off my plate, so I'm looking forward to that. So, this afternoon after I give Jesse his supper, I'm headed to Panera for a good five hours to work on my paper, do some devos, and have some yummy food all by my lonesome. That's only two hours away......not that I'm counting the minutes or anything! :0)
So now, not only do I have to be really strict with the times of his feedings, I also have to cut them in half! She wants to see if this rapid weight gain is due to my milk before he has his blood tested for diabetes, metabolic issues, or whatever. We're not really worried, but it's just made it that much more fun with an already fussy baby!
And for our further enjoyment, not only does Jesse continue to be a wretched napper and a fairly crabby baby - he also gets to have his meals cut in half which makes for an even CRABBIER baby. Mommy's had a few VERY overwhelming days. Many days of perpetual crying and screaming. (Jesse....not me. :0) I'm doing okay. I know that this too, shall pass, so I'm trying to keep perspective. Although some days are REEEEEEALY long. I owe many friends and family members phone calls, but lately it's a little hard to carry on conversations amidst the hollering! It's okay, though. I'm still really trying to savor this season of babyhood. Soon enough, he'll be a little boy running all around.
On a bright note - Friday is my very last class where my very last paper is due and then I am officially GRAJITATED! That will be one thing that I can get off my plate, so I'm looking forward to that. So, this afternoon after I give Jesse his supper, I'm headed to Panera for a good five hours to work on my paper, do some devos, and have some yummy food all by my lonesome. That's only two hours away......not that I'm counting the minutes or anything! :0)
Happy Birthday to Me!
And Jesse, too! He's ten weeks old today!
Me - well, I've hit the big 3-0! Crazy!!!
When we went home to Maine we realized that several of our old youth group kids got married this summer! That tells me I'm getting old. Ah well.
To celebrate this grand day, Daddy and Kaden made me a yummy breakfast this morning, and then they each presented me with some lovely cards. Kaden drew some great pictures in his, and Kev presented me with some cold hard cash. My fave! Me thinks I'm going to save up for something big.....maybe a new bike!
Then, we all went to Olive Garden for lunch, and my gift from Jesse was a beautiful long nap throughout the ENTIRE meal! I actually ate everything with two hands AND while it was still hot! That's the greatest birthday gift ever!
Me - well, I've hit the big 3-0! Crazy!!!
When we went home to Maine we realized that several of our old youth group kids got married this summer! That tells me I'm getting old. Ah well.
To celebrate this grand day, Daddy and Kaden made me a yummy breakfast this morning, and then they each presented me with some lovely cards. Kaden drew some great pictures in his, and Kev presented me with some cold hard cash. My fave! Me thinks I'm going to save up for something big.....maybe a new bike!
Then, we all went to Olive Garden for lunch, and my gift from Jesse was a beautiful long nap throughout the ENTIRE meal! I actually ate everything with two hands AND while it was still hot! That's the greatest birthday gift ever!
Back Home and Deranged!!!
Well, we've arrived back at "Filthy-delphia" the city of brotherly "Shove"....home sweet home. No, just kidding. It's good to get back to our cozy little apartment. It's been a crazy few days, though. It took us about 12 hours to get back. We literally dropped all of our stuff inside, Kev took the rental car back to the agency, and I ran to class.
When I got back at 10:00, the house still looked like a cyclone had swept through it, and Kev and Jesse were crashed out in bed together. I guess Jesse cried the entire time I was in class. Good times for all......Poor boys. So, I came in and gave him some snuggles, fed him, put him in his crib, and then I attacked the place until midnight. It was totally overwhelming me!
Then, Saturday evening and all day Sunday I felt wicked sick. Still not sure what it was, but I had horrible chills (and it's 90 degrees), then I would get all sweaty, and I had a pounding headache. So, Jesse and I skipped church and then when Kev came home, I had a mini breakdown so he watched the boys for me while I slept for four hours straight! Feeling much better now. :0) I think I was getting a little burnt out perhaps. Nothing that a four hour nap couldn't solve!!!
When I got back at 10:00, the house still looked like a cyclone had swept through it, and Kev and Jesse were crashed out in bed together. I guess Jesse cried the entire time I was in class. Good times for all......Poor boys. So, I came in and gave him some snuggles, fed him, put him in his crib, and then I attacked the place until midnight. It was totally overwhelming me!
Then, Saturday evening and all day Sunday I felt wicked sick. Still not sure what it was, but I had horrible chills (and it's 90 degrees), then I would get all sweaty, and I had a pounding headache. So, Jesse and I skipped church and then when Kev came home, I had a mini breakdown so he watched the boys for me while I slept for four hours straight! Feeling much better now. :0) I think I was getting a little burnt out perhaps. Nothing that a four hour nap couldn't solve!!!
"Jesse BEAR"
We have a new nickname for our little boy: "Jesse Bear"
He has been dubbed this for two reasons. One - he is a literal TANK! But even more so, our beloved newborn is truly quite the bear! I'm reminded that Kaden was a wreck for the first three months of his life, as well, so I truly am trying to take heart.....but good heavens! This child is going to be the death of me! I am still REALLY loving being Mommy of two little boys, mind you, but I am also a wee bit near my wit's end. Any advice would be grand! This child is a screamer and is really not a happy camper most of the day and night. His saving grace is that he just started smiling and cooing these past couple of days. The good Lord knew that it was about time!
He has been dubbed this for two reasons. One - he is a literal TANK! But even more so, our beloved newborn is truly quite the bear! I'm reminded that Kaden was a wreck for the first three months of his life, as well, so I truly am trying to take heart.....but good heavens! This child is going to be the death of me! I am still REALLY loving being Mommy of two little boys, mind you, but I am also a wee bit near my wit's end. Any advice would be grand! This child is a screamer and is really not a happy camper most of the day and night. His saving grace is that he just started smiling and cooing these past couple of days. The good Lord knew that it was about time!
Random Thoughts for Lazy Days
Nothing new to post really. I'm just sitting here thinking about how much I'm enjoying my life lately. I'm really loving being a Mommy of two little guys. And I'm loving that it's summer, so we can spend most of our days outside. Jesse is a wee bit crabby a lot of the time - much like his big brother Kaden was during his first three months of life - but he really seems to be soothed by being outside. So we are outdoor campers many of our days!
I got a new super cool double jogger stroller where the seats are front to back as opposed to side by side. Kaden sits up high while Jesse lays down below him. Once Jesse gets a little bit bigger, the stroller converts to a two-seater. It's quite glorious. We walk every morning, and it's been quite sweaty (not to mention back-breaking) wearing him in a Snugli. So, I feel like a princess now!
Kaden also has a really fun kiddie pool that he loves to swim in, so we spend many of our moments in our backyard with Kaden swimming and Jesse hanging out on his Boppy. I love lazy summer days where the only agenda is to play outside until afternoon naps.
I love that I only have one class left, and then I don't have to think about school at all for awhile. I love that Jesse is taking a really long nap today and that I was able to take a really long nap yesterday. I love that we're coming home soon to see all of our friends and family....and I love lots of other things, but my not-so-wee one is calling for me as I type!
I got a new super cool double jogger stroller where the seats are front to back as opposed to side by side. Kaden sits up high while Jesse lays down below him. Once Jesse gets a little bit bigger, the stroller converts to a two-seater. It's quite glorious. We walk every morning, and it's been quite sweaty (not to mention back-breaking) wearing him in a Snugli. So, I feel like a princess now!
Kaden also has a really fun kiddie pool that he loves to swim in, so we spend many of our moments in our backyard with Kaden swimming and Jesse hanging out on his Boppy. I love lazy summer days where the only agenda is to play outside until afternoon naps.
I love that I only have one class left, and then I don't have to think about school at all for awhile. I love that Jesse is taking a really long nap today and that I was able to take a really long nap yesterday. I love that we're coming home soon to see all of our friends and family....and I love lots of other things, but my not-so-wee one is calling for me as I type!
Behold Our Buddah Baby!!!
So, our littlest one had his five week wellness check-up yesterday at the pediatrician's. Now, I don't normally give much thought to the whole percentile thing, but....get this: his head circumference is in the 50%, (okay, average, right?) his length is in the 50%-90%, (so he's pretty long).....but......get this......his weight is OFF THE CHARTS!!! Meaning....our baby TRULY is a chunk! At five weeks, this child weighs 14 1/2 pounds! He is in size two diapers and is already busting out of 3-6 month clothing! Jesse's pediatrician says she isn't worried at all, but she wants me to try and put him on a strict three hour feeding schedule! Kev says, "Our baby's on a diet!!" I sometimes forget that he is still a newborn because he's so big!
Unplanned Road Trips
So, in a matter of three days I have managed to get myself royally lost on these Pennsylvania highways. Man alive - I used to think that I was pretty decent at reading directions and maps, but you will never hear me say that again. I have been sufficiently humbled.
On my way to my baby shower, I drove thirty miles round trip in the wrong direction and made myself thirty minutes late. (This is a route that we have taken every Sunday for two years, mind you). And then tonight, I had to drop Kev off at our Pastor's place because he flies out for three days at 4:30 in the morning tomorrow, and I took a wrong exit yet again. Upon realizing my mistake, I figured - no problem; I'll just get off at the next exit and turn around. Well, the next exit wasn't for another twenty miles. So, yet again, I drove almost forty miles round trip out of the way of my destination. Poor little boys -what should have been a forty minute drive home for them ended up being an hour and a half road trip in the pouring rain.
Good times! A great way to start a three day week-end as a single Mom of two!
I tell you what - you can take the girl out of the country...........
On my way to my baby shower, I drove thirty miles round trip in the wrong direction and made myself thirty minutes late. (This is a route that we have taken every Sunday for two years, mind you). And then tonight, I had to drop Kev off at our Pastor's place because he flies out for three days at 4:30 in the morning tomorrow, and I took a wrong exit yet again. Upon realizing my mistake, I figured - no problem; I'll just get off at the next exit and turn around. Well, the next exit wasn't for another twenty miles. So, yet again, I drove almost forty miles round trip out of the way of my destination. Poor little boys -what should have been a forty minute drive home for them ended up being an hour and a half road trip in the pouring rain.
Good times! A great way to start a three day week-end as a single Mom of two!
I tell you what - you can take the girl out of the country...........
Terms of Endearment!
I'm compiling a list of names that have already been given to our (not so) little Jesse:
My favorite: "Sir Chubs-A-Lot"
Daddy's fave: "Chubby Wonder"
And Kaden's: "Sweety Pie" - (The nicest one by far! :0))
Because of all of his gruntings and crazy noises that he makes, he has also been termed:
"A grumpy little puppy" by Daddy, and
"A little bear" by Mommy.
Hmmm, not so "baby-ish" of names....but they do suit him!
And other comments from friends and family:
Jess: "Good Maine Stock!"
Rachel D.: "Sweet Chubby Little Monkey!"
Amber: "Looks like you're feeding him REALLY well!"
Yep - this one is only four weeks old, and he's already busting out of his 0-3 month clothing! If those cheeks get any pudgier, they'll be sitting on his shoulders! Very squeezable and oh so yummy, however! He's delish! Loving it!!!
My favorite: "Sir Chubs-A-Lot"
Daddy's fave: "Chubby Wonder"
And Kaden's: "Sweety Pie" - (The nicest one by far! :0))
Because of all of his gruntings and crazy noises that he makes, he has also been termed:
"A grumpy little puppy" by Daddy, and
"A little bear" by Mommy.
Hmmm, not so "baby-ish" of names....but they do suit him!
And other comments from friends and family:
Jess: "Good Maine Stock!"
Rachel D.: "Sweet Chubby Little Monkey!"
Amber: "Looks like you're feeding him REALLY well!"
Yep - this one is only four weeks old, and he's already busting out of his 0-3 month clothing! If those cheeks get any pudgier, they'll be sitting on his shoulders! Very squeezable and oh so yummy, however! He's delish! Loving it!!!
It's Been Awhile!
Hmmm, it has been some time since I last updated. Jesse turned four weeks old today - so that makes my last posting three weeks ago! My, how time flies! So, I sent a couple of pics out to some of you. What do you all think of our little "Chubs-A-Lot?" He's quite the bruiser, eh? So yummy and kissable...quite delicious!
Well, since I last posted, my Mom has come and gone, we had Jesse dedicated in church, and my church down here threw me a glorious baby shower! I am feeling abundantly blessed and taken care of! My Mom outdid herself while she was here. She took care of Kaden every morning so that we could sleep in, she cooked, she cleaned, she bought groceries, she took us out to eat, she gave Kaden quality Grammy time, she scrubbed my tub.....she even cleaned the upholtery on my chairs!!!! Unbelievable!
Then, my church gave me the sweetest shower this past Saturday. These ladies blessed me like you wouldn't imagine! I was expecting a tiny, very simple shower with maybe ten or fifteen ladies...which would have been totally fine, by the way. However, there were over forty women, the church was decorated beautifully, the food was DELISH, and they just overwhelmed me with gifts! (They bought me my dream double jogger stroller!!!!) Their love and generosity literally brought me to tears. The Lord truly does give "exceedingly and abundantly above and beyond all that we can EVER ask or imagine!"
So, one month into my mothering journey of "two," I am feeling very happy and content. I have had much help and support, Kaden is in LOVE with his little brother, and so far - I'm not feeling too overwhelmed! We're taking life pretty slowly and just relaxing and enjoying each other. Kev goes away for three days this week-end for his internship, so you can ask me on Monday if I'm STILL feeling relaxed and not too overwhelmed! :0) More updates to come......
Well, since I last posted, my Mom has come and gone, we had Jesse dedicated in church, and my church down here threw me a glorious baby shower! I am feeling abundantly blessed and taken care of! My Mom outdid herself while she was here. She took care of Kaden every morning so that we could sleep in, she cooked, she cleaned, she bought groceries, she took us out to eat, she gave Kaden quality Grammy time, she scrubbed my tub.....she even cleaned the upholtery on my chairs!!!! Unbelievable!
Then, my church gave me the sweetest shower this past Saturday. These ladies blessed me like you wouldn't imagine! I was expecting a tiny, very simple shower with maybe ten or fifteen ladies...which would have been totally fine, by the way. However, there were over forty women, the church was decorated beautifully, the food was DELISH, and they just overwhelmed me with gifts! (They bought me my dream double jogger stroller!!!!) Their love and generosity literally brought me to tears. The Lord truly does give "exceedingly and abundantly above and beyond all that we can EVER ask or imagine!"
So, one month into my mothering journey of "two," I am feeling very happy and content. I have had much help and support, Kaden is in LOVE with his little brother, and so far - I'm not feeling too overwhelmed! We're taking life pretty slowly and just relaxing and enjoying each other. Kev goes away for three days this week-end for his internship, so you can ask me on Monday if I'm STILL feeling relaxed and not too overwhelmed! :0) More updates to come......
Happy Birthday, Little Man!
Hard to believe that our little Jesse Micah is already over a week old. Crazy how time flies! Kaden is still just as enamored with his little brother. He is always wanting to kiss, squeeze, and snuggle; and he really is such a big help to both Kev and I. He loves to get out the diapers and wipes, and he loves to put lotion on his baby! Super cute!
Well, I gave my final senior power point presentation for my book last night! Does that ever feel good to have done and out of the way! The whole fam came with me. Kev watched the boys while I presentated, and then I kept Jesse with me for the rest of the class. I'm not ready to pump yet, and my professor was totally cool with me having him, so we just sat in the back of the class while everyone else gave their presentations. Jesse was a model student - he slept through the entire class with just a few minor baby noises! Now I just have to take a five night Counseling class in July and August and I am completely home free! GRAJITATED!!! Yay! I am ready to just solely and completely focus on mothering my two little men without any distractions of classes and papers.
Mom is on her way out for a little visit. Kev has just gone to the airport to pick her up. So, it will really be nice to have her around to help with the boys and to especially give Kaden a lot of TLC and one on one attention. This will also get Kev off the hook of having to play "Mr. Mom," although he has done fabulously this week! He's done a bunch of little projects for me, he's kept up with the laundry and the dishes, he has taken Kaden away on a bunch of little Daddy-Son dates, and he's just really served and loved me. Can't ask for more than that!!!
Well, I gave my final senior power point presentation for my book last night! Does that ever feel good to have done and out of the way! The whole fam came with me. Kev watched the boys while I presentated, and then I kept Jesse with me for the rest of the class. I'm not ready to pump yet, and my professor was totally cool with me having him, so we just sat in the back of the class while everyone else gave their presentations. Jesse was a model student - he slept through the entire class with just a few minor baby noises! Now I just have to take a five night Counseling class in July and August and I am completely home free! GRAJITATED!!! Yay! I am ready to just solely and completely focus on mothering my two little men without any distractions of classes and papers.
Mom is on her way out for a little visit. Kev has just gone to the airport to pick her up. So, it will really be nice to have her around to help with the boys and to especially give Kaden a lot of TLC and one on one attention. This will also get Kev off the hook of having to play "Mr. Mom," although he has done fabulously this week! He's done a bunch of little projects for me, he's kept up with the laundry and the dishes, he has taken Kaden away on a bunch of little Daddy-Son dates, and he's just really served and loved me. Can't ask for more than that!!!
We Welcome With Love.....
BABY JESSE MICAH!!!!
After two days of total bedrest, and after cynically "knowing for sure" that our second birth experience would be the same as our first - traumatic, stressful, and induced - the Lord granted my FERVENT prayer request and allowed us to go completely naturally and on our own this time.
At 1:00 a.m. Sunday morning, a week before my due date, I woke up feeling yucky. I took a shower and tried to assess the situation. By 2:30 I knew that THIS WAS IT! Kev woke up and we started counting contractions. Within minutes they were less than 5 minutes apart and very intense, so he called the midwife. I wasn't overly impressed, because I wanted to be home for as much of the labor as possible. But, with the hospital 45 minutes away and with my history of fast deliveries, my midwife told us to hit the road. Good thing - because my water broke in the car and twenty minutes after arriving at the hospital, baby Jesse Micah was born!!!
We are so in love with this little baby, and Kaden is so completely proud and pleased to "have a new baby brother of my VERY own!" Jesse weighed in at 8 pounds, 14 ounces (my very first words when I saw him were, "He's a CHUNK!"). He's 21 inches long, and he has just a little bit of brown hair. At birth, he was VERY red, but he is becoming more dark with each day, like Kaden did. Soooo adorable!!!
Anyway, just wanted to share the news with everyone. He's waking up, so we must be off!
After two days of total bedrest, and after cynically "knowing for sure" that our second birth experience would be the same as our first - traumatic, stressful, and induced - the Lord granted my FERVENT prayer request and allowed us to go completely naturally and on our own this time.
At 1:00 a.m. Sunday morning, a week before my due date, I woke up feeling yucky. I took a shower and tried to assess the situation. By 2:30 I knew that THIS WAS IT! Kev woke up and we started counting contractions. Within minutes they were less than 5 minutes apart and very intense, so he called the midwife. I wasn't overly impressed, because I wanted to be home for as much of the labor as possible. But, with the hospital 45 minutes away and with my history of fast deliveries, my midwife told us to hit the road. Good thing - because my water broke in the car and twenty minutes after arriving at the hospital, baby Jesse Micah was born!!!
We are so in love with this little baby, and Kaden is so completely proud and pleased to "have a new baby brother of my VERY own!" Jesse weighed in at 8 pounds, 14 ounces (my very first words when I saw him were, "He's a CHUNK!"). He's 21 inches long, and he has just a little bit of brown hair. At birth, he was VERY red, but he is becoming more dark with each day, like Kaden did. Soooo adorable!!!
Anyway, just wanted to share the news with everyone. He's waking up, so we must be off!
One Last Hurrah!
So, I figure things could happen any day now, and one final thing that I really wanted to do before baby #2 arrives is go to the ocean for a day and really be able to play with Kaden before I'm kind of occupied with a newborn. It was roasty toasty today, so we loaded up and just drove about an hour away to the nearest beach in Jersey - Ocean Grove. Oh my - it was so very glorious! We swam, we caught sand crabs, we ate outside at a little sandwich shop, and - in the words of Kaden, it was just "super fun!" I was a good girl and rested for awhile on a blanket while Kev and Kaden played, and now I plan to be good for the rest of the night. My blood pressure is up a wee bit because of our day.....but mister man....it was worth it! From here on out, though, I do solemnly swear to be obedient to the orders of my midwife.
Here's the Deal-io...
So, I'm 38 weeks on Sunday - the time where I was induced with Kaden three years ago, and my body seems to REALLY be wanting to repeat that same scenario. However, this girl is fighting it! All of my tests are right in the elevated zone - just a smidgen below the "danger" zone. As long as I can keep squeaking by, my midwives are fine to let my body just go. I'm on "modified" bed rest - laying down on my left side one hour in the morning, one hour in the afternoon, and then anytime that I am resting - (What? When does that take place during the day?). I need to take my blood pressure three times as day, as well. As long as I can keep it in a certain range - I'm golden. As soon as it goes ABOVE a certain range - to the hospital I go to be induced. So....it's kind of a day by day induction wait! Good times.
Only Three More Days Until......
Well, I had my 36 week appointment yesterday. This is about the time when I was pregnant with Kaden when all you-know-what broke loose with my preclampia (or however you spell that dumb word). Anyway, I'll be 37 weeks on Sunday, and my midwife says that anytime after that, she is fine should I deliver. At this appointment yesterday, first the first time ever in this pregnancy, my blood pressure was elevated. Not in the danger zone yet, but not where she wants it, either. So, we're going to watch it for a week and see what happens. It's a bit frustrating because I feel like I've done everything I could with this pregnancy to do what's right - including drinking a VERY pricey supplement that supposedly helps most women. However, she said that some women are just predisposed to this condition, no matter what. So, if you would, please pray that all stays okay until the end. I would truly love to be able to let my body go completely naturally this time and not have to be induced with all that junk. I would really love to be able to stay home for a long time this time, too, but the Lord knows, and either way we'll have our baby soon - and his or her health is what is most important. So, I'm just trying to be positive and content.
In three more days, I plan to run a marathon and get this show on the road! Just kidding....kinda.
In three more days, I plan to run a marathon and get this show on the road! Just kidding....kinda.
Funny Story.....Kinda'
For those of you who know us, you know that we do not drink. We actually don't have issues with it, we just have not chosen to partake ourselves for various reasons......until yesterday......by complete accident!
Kev and Kaden took me to Olive Garden for Mother's Day, and at the conclusion of our meal, we decided to get the yummy "Frozen Tiramisu" which was available with or without "spirits." When our waitress came by, Kev asked her if it tasted the same either way, and she said, "Oh yes, some people just like it with the alcohol, but it tastes exactly the same." Thinking she would understand that we wanted a non-alcoholic version, seeing an OBVIOUSLY pregnant wife and three year old little boy, Kev merely said, "O.k., we'll all split one to go."
Well, somehow there was a breakdown in communication, and here is where it happened. The waitress said, "Oh, we're really not supposed to make them to go." (Because they don't want people drinking and driving, I guess). I was thinking of how it would be much easier to just drink it in the restaurant anyway, so I simply said, "Oh, that's fine. We'll just drink it here." A couple of minutes later she brings us our bill AND the drink in a to go cup with a parting comment, "I just put it in a to go cup anyway, even though I wasn't supposed to."
THAT should have clued us in. But, nope, the naive Bookers sat happily in the middle of the restaurant sucking back on our yummy alcoholic Tiramisu. At first Kaden kept saying, "Oh! This is a yummy special treat!" But, the further he got to the bottom, he began saying, "OOOh! I don't like this - it's toooo strong!" I agreed with him and said that I didn't particularly like the flavor either, so we let Kev finish off the last little bit.
On our way out to the car, as we got to thinking about it, Kev said, "You know, I'm just going to run back inside to check with her and make sure that she made it without alcohol." Sure enough - she made it the regular way! Kev assured her it wasn't really a big deal, but he just wanted to know because his 8 month pregnant wife and three old little boy drank just as much as he did! She was horrified and felt so bad! We just about died laughing. No big deal really, but not the ideal after dinner treat for a prego and a little boy! Goodness knows, he's already been introduced to coffee and is addicted at a VERY young age - he needs no other vice! :0)
Well, what can I say? Hey - if we're going to try alcohol for the first time we might as well make it a family occasion! Good grief! Only us........
Kev and Kaden took me to Olive Garden for Mother's Day, and at the conclusion of our meal, we decided to get the yummy "Frozen Tiramisu" which was available with or without "spirits." When our waitress came by, Kev asked her if it tasted the same either way, and she said, "Oh yes, some people just like it with the alcohol, but it tastes exactly the same." Thinking she would understand that we wanted a non-alcoholic version, seeing an OBVIOUSLY pregnant wife and three year old little boy, Kev merely said, "O.k., we'll all split one to go."
Well, somehow there was a breakdown in communication, and here is where it happened. The waitress said, "Oh, we're really not supposed to make them to go." (Because they don't want people drinking and driving, I guess). I was thinking of how it would be much easier to just drink it in the restaurant anyway, so I simply said, "Oh, that's fine. We'll just drink it here." A couple of minutes later she brings us our bill AND the drink in a to go cup with a parting comment, "I just put it in a to go cup anyway, even though I wasn't supposed to."
THAT should have clued us in. But, nope, the naive Bookers sat happily in the middle of the restaurant sucking back on our yummy alcoholic Tiramisu. At first Kaden kept saying, "Oh! This is a yummy special treat!" But, the further he got to the bottom, he began saying, "OOOh! I don't like this - it's toooo strong!" I agreed with him and said that I didn't particularly like the flavor either, so we let Kev finish off the last little bit.
On our way out to the car, as we got to thinking about it, Kev said, "You know, I'm just going to run back inside to check with her and make sure that she made it without alcohol." Sure enough - she made it the regular way! Kev assured her it wasn't really a big deal, but he just wanted to know because his 8 month pregnant wife and three old little boy drank just as much as he did! She was horrified and felt so bad! We just about died laughing. No big deal really, but not the ideal after dinner treat for a prego and a little boy! Goodness knows, he's already been introduced to coffee and is addicted at a VERY young age - he needs no other vice! :0)
Well, what can I say? Hey - if we're going to try alcohol for the first time we might as well make it a family occasion! Good grief! Only us........
Home Again
Oh man - what an awesome time we had on our little family camping trip! I don't think I've EVER had a more relaxing family vacation. We went with some dear friends who have a new baby, Kaden doesn't remember the last time he's been camping, and I am eight months pregnant, so we really had NO expectations for how this trip would go. We all just wanted a little R & R in God's creation away from the buses, trains, airplanes, yelling, and occasional gun shots!! And man oh man - did we ever get it!
Aside from it getting down below freezing our first night there, we could not have asked for better weather. The men caught fish, Kaden caught bugs, peed in the woods, played in the water, slept in a tent, had an awesome third birthday party, stayed up late, got to eat icecream, and had Mommy and Daddy's undivided attention for three days. He was in his element!
Hubby literally did ALL of the setup and take down work. The only things that I did the entire time that could even remotely be classified as work was wash the dishes on two different occasions. Other than that, I vegged, soaked in the sun, played with Kaden, visited with my friend, filled my face, and just relaxed to the MAX!!!
It was a glorious, fabulous, wonderful, last hurrah before the arrival of sweet baby #2! SUCH a fun family vacation, and a much needed step away from the hubbub of life! Now for the joy of the unpacking and cleanup....
Aside from it getting down below freezing our first night there, we could not have asked for better weather. The men caught fish, Kaden caught bugs, peed in the woods, played in the water, slept in a tent, had an awesome third birthday party, stayed up late, got to eat icecream, and had Mommy and Daddy's undivided attention for three days. He was in his element!
Hubby literally did ALL of the setup and take down work. The only things that I did the entire time that could even remotely be classified as work was wash the dishes on two different occasions. Other than that, I vegged, soaked in the sun, played with Kaden, visited with my friend, filled my face, and just relaxed to the MAX!!!
It was a glorious, fabulous, wonderful, last hurrah before the arrival of sweet baby #2! SUCH a fun family vacation, and a much needed step away from the hubbub of life! Now for the joy of the unpacking and cleanup....
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)