Into Month Eight

Woohoo - I am now officially entering month numero eight! Can you believe it? I can barely believe it myself. Time seems to be flying, and I am still just counting down the days until the baby's due date. We got a message today that our baby furniture has now arrived! I am hoping I can get my hubby to humour me, and go pick it up this weekend so I can start putting our nursery together. I'm getting more and more excited each day, and on some other days starting to worry about whether I'm really going to be a good mom. Will I even know what to do once I have that baby at home? I imagine that I will eventually figure things out, but it still is a little nerve-wracking. Whenever I feel like that, I try praying about it - and that usually helps a lot. I'm sure Satan would love it if he could convince me that we will be awful parents. I won't let him succeed.

Remember how in my last post I wrote that baby announcements always come in bursts? Well, I got another call today! Another friend is prego!

My new favourite thing: Rooibus Manitoba Tea from Cornelia Bean Ltd., with Manitoba Blend Honey. If you can get your hands on this stuff - BUY it! It's so delicious!

Happiness & Heart Break

I am just so thrilled to have found out that two dear friends of mine are expecting. As some of you already know, my friend and neighbour Rebekah and her husband are expecting. As well, a good friend of mine from Regina also just let me know that she and her husband are pregnant. Wow! It always seems to come in a burst, and is so exciting. Please keep all these beautiful pregnant women in your prayers. It is such an exciting time, but also can be a little scary, and not very fun if you are really ill like these two are. I am very, very thrilled for both of you - and can't wait to watch you grow and enjoy all the wonders of pregnancy over the next few months!

On the other end of things, it has broken my heart to hear that a fellow blogger has just lost her sweet baby. Everytime I hear of another miscarriage, I am brought back to those feelings of pain - and it hurts me to think of others having to go through it. Please pray for these women and their husbands who have lost babies. It is such a sad time, and it is so hard to go from such great anticipation and joy, to the sadness and grieving of a lost little miracle.

The Halo Sleep Sack

Okay, so the latest craze in baby gear seems to be the new Halo Sleep Sack. As you can see in the picture, it's basically like a sleeping bag with arm holes and a neck hole. This latest piece of work is supposed to dramatically decrease SIDS, keep the baby the right temperature, won't cover the baby's head like a blanket, and won't slip off, etc. Is this really the God-sent invention for parents, such that they never lose another wink of sleep worrying about SIDS? Or is it simply another way for the baby gear folks to make a buck, while playing with our sensitive need to protect our children as they slumber? I'd love to get some opinions on this one. What did you do for your baby? The light draping of the blanket over top? No blanket? A tight swaddle? Let's hear it ladies... this up and coming momma wants some insight.

Looking Back, Looking Forward

Many of you have been reading my blog almost since it's conception, which is approaching a year. That means I have been pregnant for nearly a year - with the exception of the month of January 2006, during which I was "unpregnant" for the entire month, although still feeling very pregnant. To celebrate the commencement of month eight of my pregnancy, I decided to read my own blog from start to present.

It's hard to believe that I've come from there to where I am today, all in a matter of a year. Many of you have been cheering me on from the sidelines, and I just want to thank you for staying it out with me - and for helping me to get here - with my faith in tact, and a slew of new friends. Reading through my posts since last October I shed many tears, and laughed a few times, but mostly just stood in awe at how God has worked miracles in my life. My blog is evidence of answered prayers, and then there are the beautiful comments left by each of you. You lifted my spirits so many times, and were truly God sent messengers to me when I was most in need of encouragement. Thank you so much for allowing Him to speak through you, and directly to my heart and soul. You words have been precious.

I have so much in my life, I am so blessed. It is a sin for me to take anything for granted. There is not a day that goes by that I don't thank God for the wonderful gift that is being created in me. I'll admit that I am feeling tired, a little bit huge, a little uncomfortable, and even a little bit worried - but at the end of the day, when I feel that baby kicking, I just have to say "thank you Lord".

I am so in love with this little life, the next 63 days couldn't possibly go by fast enough before I get to hold that baby, and kiss it, and SEE it! Don't worry! I have been plenty warned that the last days will go by VERY slowly. Hopefully I don't go too long overdue, if at all. Ryan and I have also pretty much got our names chosen now, which I am quite excited about! I can't wait to share the name with you - or course, you will have to wait until baby arrives for that.

Anniversary

Check out my anniversary
post for Ryan here.

Prenatal Class

Ryan and I went to our first prenatal class on Thursday. I really enjoyed it - but Ryan said he found it hard not to make wise-cracks. There are about 10 couples in the class, including a few that we know. The Public Health Nurse, Laurie, did a lot of talking - basically giving a run through of pregnancy from start to finish. She also showed us some flip chart images during various stages of pregnancy that I found really cool. We also watched some short video clips. It was SO funny to hear all of the guys groan during the 3 second clip of a baby's head crowning, and then for the brief clip of the delivery of the placenta! Laurie also informed the men that they would, in fact, have to do a lot of helping out! In any case, I think it will be really informative, and actually a kind of fun thing to do as a couple. Next week we watch a full delivery from start to finish - I might have to bring a barf bag for Ryan. Haha! And yes, that is my belly in the picture. I actually did Photoshop some of the obvious stretch marks out!

My question of the week: What is your opinion on Cord Blood banking?

The 30 week photo - in the new shirt I got this weekend. I was psyched - it's not even maternity, just an XL.

My mom bought the baby this cute teddy this weekend, and our amazing friends dropped off this gift. It was full of little baby things all wrapped up in diapers.

I'm Back!

Well, what a wonderful long weekend we had. Despite rain, and very cool weather (which felt great to me) we were able to relax, and just sit back and do nothing. It felt fantastic! I also got to spend some good quality time with my hubby, which was much-needed. Good times were also had with the rest of the family, and especially our dear little godchildren Gina (3) and Billy (1).

So I've reached the 30 week mark. Wow. I am completely in awe - just 10 more weeks... or more I suppose, if baby decides to hibernate longer. I am getting really excited, and also a little bit nervous. I'm more nervous about making sure everything is perfect for baby - not so much the baby's actual arrival. I'm pretty cool still with the whole idea of labour. Ryan and I start prenatal classes this week - maybe my idea will change! In any case, I feel mostly ready for the baby to come now, and am counting down the days.

Sleep isn't exactly working very well these days either. It's fairly uncomfortable now - and when I lie on my left side (as recommended) it feels like my ribs are folding over. Ouch! I also usually have to get up to pee once a night. Oh well, just a few more weeks - I think I can manage. It does frighten me to think that in the next ten weeks this baby is really going to start gaining weight! Yikes - my tummy is already so tight, and my belly button hurts! I've also started seeing a few stretch marks - so no more bare tummy shots - unless I Photoshop them. Hahaha! Other than that, I feel really great. I still have energy, and am pretty likely in the early stages of nesting. I want that baby room done SOON! I have to wait a few more weeks for the furniture to arrive. I'm getting quite impatient to have it, so I can set everything up.

Anyway, I'll have to take some updated pics this week. I'll post them soon!

The Long Weekend

Tomorrow we are off to Fargo, North Dakota for a couple of nights, and then on to Fair Hills Resort for the long weekend. We go together with Ryan's side of the family, and it has been a tradition for over 20 years. It's really relaxing at the Resort, so I am really excited to spent the weekend with Ryan there. I cherish all of these "child free" weekends we have left together (just 11 more) - so it's nice to spend them away from home at a place like Fair Hills.

I am much looking forward to doing a little bit of shopping in Fargo - particularly for some baby necessesities at Target, and some fall/winter clothes from JC Penney. The exchange rate is pretty good right now, and I did some price comparisons and buying stuff in the U.S. is actually a fair bit cheaper than here. For example, the Avent Microwave Steam Sterilizer at Toys R Us in Winnipeg costs $56 Cdn. At Target, the same sterilizer costs $42 Cdn (even with duty added) - a savings of $14! So, I might pick that up while I'm down there, as well as some crib sheets, sleepers, and a few other essentials. I'm still finding it tough to narrow it down to what I will really end up needing for the baby. Pray that I make smart and economical decisions!

Wow, this is so amazing. I try to picture this in my mind when I feel all those kicks and wiggles! No wonder it feels like a party in there all the time!

Too Big or Too Small?

It never ceases to amaze me how people are so willing to comment on the size of my tummy - especially when they ask if I'm carrying twins! I got a few more "wow, you're really big" comments this week, and it started to make me worry - even though at my appointment on Wednesday I measured perfectly, and the doctor said my progress was perfect. My worry got me into some online research about size, and I found this article that really explained things well, and gave me peace of mind. I even Googled "28 week" images to compare myself to other people! People seem to make comments based on their own pregnancy experience. Everyone's bodies are made so differently, and those differences are enhanced during pregnancy. In my case in particular, I have several factors that play into why I seem to be carrying "larger" than others might. Here are some of those factors:

1) Body weight before pregnancy. I am not a skinny person, and also had extra weight on my body from my previous pregnancy. This could make me look larger than a person who is quite slim and pregnant - but for some, this could have a totally opposite effect, and a larger person would hide their pregnant belly better than a slimmer person!

2) Narrow torso. I have a very narrow torso (the space between my chest and hips). There is not a lot of room for the uterus to expand vertically, so in my case it expands horizontally - pushing out the front!

3) Deep curvature of the back. I have a very deep curve in my back. When I lie flat on the floor, I can fit my entire arm between the floor and my back. This means that I am really pushing out the front with the baby, and that much of my internal organs are also being pushed to the front.

4) Abdominal strength. I'd be the first to admit that I don't have great abs! Not only did I not have strong abdominal muscles pre-pregnancy, but I also had already stretched them out a little bit during my first pregnancy. Both of these factors could contribute to why my tummy so readily pushes out - there is little muscle there to hold it in!

5) Heredity. My grandma, and my mom both carried "out front" and had large bellies - but only had 7-8 lb babies. I have been blessed with the exact same build as my mom's family, and will likely have a similar pregnant size - which will be big, apparently.

I am putting this on here today to encourage any other pregnant women who might be getting comments about size. Whether you are being told that you are too big, or too small, those comments can be hurtful and can cause someone to worry unnecessarily. You do have to remember that your doctor knows best, and you really only need to worry about what their opinion is. Have a happy, worry-free pregnancy, and let your doctor be the one to tell you if you have anything you need to be concerned about. If you are pregnant - I hope you feel beautiful as you carry a beautiful miracle from God!

Here it is - my tummy at 28 weeks!

New Arrival!

Our new nephew, Simon John Franklin, finally made his way into the world! Welcome to the family little man! We already love you so much, and think you are beautiful.

Born August 23, at 5:17am weighing 7lbs 13ozs., and 20.5" long

Proud parents are Steve & Angela Plett,

big sister Emily, and big brother Thomas.

We love you guys! Can't wait to meet Simon!

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

(Matthew 19:14 NIV)

Sweatin' & Stressin'

You know that commercial for Lotto 649 where it says "Let's see your million-dollar happy dance"? Well, today I'm doing one of those happy dances... to be entering into my third and final trimester! Woohoo! I'm so excited, and am glad that I am going into these last few months feeling healthy, and relatively good.

Did anyone experience some serious sweating issues when they were pregnant? Every since my body temperature has gone up, so has my perspiration! I can't stop sweating - and it's really gross to always have armpit circles. I've tried all kinds of different anti-perspirants, but none of them are able to fight off this influx of sweat. Thankfully it really doesn't smell at all. It's just kind of embarassing, and I wonder if it is normal. I have an appointment today with my obstetrician, so I'll ask her.

I have been stressing out a little bit again too. I just want this baby to have a PERFECT start, and have all the BEST stuff, and all of the RIGHT stuff. This covers things from mattress pads to baby soaps, diapers to sleep positioners, toys to car seat covers. Unfortunately, I can't do that on a budget. So, I need your advice. What were your absolute ESSENTIAL, can't-live-without baby items?

Wow, this just amazes me! It's so hard to imagine how my baby must look inside of me right now. It definately seems to be moving a lot now, and lots of family and friends have had the privilege of feeling or seeing the baby moving.

Will baby Pepe look like dad...

... or like mom? (They tried to comb what little hair I had for this pic).

Checkout Line Chatter

So, I was at Superstore (or as my hubby calls it, "Stupidstore") this morning. While going through the Express Checkout, the lady across from me starts up a conversation. It went as follows...

Lady: So, when are you due?
Me: Mid November.
Lady: Ewwww... wow. You have a long wait yet. How are you managing?
(Nin, you know how awesome it is to be reminded of how long you have left to go...)
Me: I'm managing fine! I love being pregnant, and I've been blessed with good health.
Lady: Wow, I don't think I've ever heard that before.
Me: How could I complain about a miracle?
Lady: Wow... you are so right. Thank you for that reminder.
Me: I just want to enjoy every moment of this miracle. We wanted this baby - so I am overjoyed to be carrying it.
Lady: That is an amazing attitude. Wow. I just feel very blessed to have talked to you today. No one says things like that these days. I think your baby will be better off in this world with a mom with a good attitude like that. You must already love that baby. Some babies probably just want to stay in their mom's tummy and never come out. Like me... all the yelling that surrounded me... thanks agaibn for blessing me today.
Me: Well, I feel blessed that I could bless you! I hope you have a wonderful day.
Lady: I will, thanks to you!

And as a double blessing, I found an online coupon for a free apple pie from Superstore before I went to shop. Yay for Internet!

Wow, God is GOOD!

I had written a big long post last night, and as I went to publish it - my computer froze. I was so upset, and contemplated trying to rewrite the whole thing. But I gave up. "Maybe God just didn't want me to post that", I thought. Well, I was right! God didn't want me to post that until I had read my Bible study chapter for this week. We're taking a Max Lucado book called "It's Not About Me".

Tonight I read through chapter twelve, and was suddenly reminded of something. I was reminded of a girl who walked out onto a beach in Hawaii eight months ago, and screamed out to God. She was angry, hurt, sad, and empty. Where was her God? Why was He hurting her? What had she done to deserve this pain?

"Your pain has a purpose. Your problems, struggles, heartaches, and hassles cooperate toward one end - the glory of God. 'Trust me in your times of trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory' (Psalm 50:15)". Max Lucado

I'll never forget how it felt to be angry at God like that, for taking the baby. It seemed so pointless, without any reason to mortal me. However, the more I realize that the hard times in life are the ones that matter, the more I learn to appreciate them. I pray for the strength and courage to learn how to show God's glory through those tough times. Much easier said than done, that's for sure. However, it gives me joy and peace in knowing that my past pain has not been for naught. God has already been gracious enough to show me at least one way in which the loss of our baby was part of His plan for someone else's salvation.

"What about your struggles? If there any chance, any possibility, that you have been selected to struggle for God's glory? Have you 'been granted for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but to also suffer for His sake' (Philippians 1:29)"? Max Lucado

I hope I was. I hope my struggles have been a light to someone. I hope that somehow, I have given someone a glimpse of Christ in me. I pray that I can do that every day, every hour, every second - no matter what it is that faces me, may I always reflect the face of God. 'Tis so true to say, "a season of suffering is a small assignment when compared to the reward". I pray that I can always see the reward, and look past my suffering as an opportunity to shine for God.

For the many of you that are facing challenges today, I'm praying for you. I hope that you will be encouraged by these words, as I was, and that you know you are not alone. God is a gracious and mighty God, and He is not punishing you. He is using you for His great plan and purpose, even in times of struggle. May you be richly blessed today and always.

Poem for Baby

Little baby on the way,

Getting bigger every day,

Kicking mommy here and there,

God please listen to our prayer.

Keep our baby safe and strong,

Let his time with us be long,

Help us teach him right from wrong,

And we shall praise thee all day long.

This little one, though not yet here,

Is loved so much, has grown quite dear.

Delivery time is growing near,

That's why we pray our plea you'll hear.

Please help up Lord, we pray to Thee

With thankful heart, on bended knee,

To raise this child that he might be,

A happy child because of me.

By Tina Greenfield

Birth Date Predictions

Thanks to everyone who has already put in their predictions for baby Pepe's birth date, weight and gender! Looks like most of you think we're having a boy. Heehee! Here are the dates that have already been predicted:
November - 12 (x2), 13, 14, 15, 16 (x2), 18, 19, 20 (x2), 21, and the 22.

S.O.S.

I could swear the baby was using my belly button as a form of communicating via morse code this morning! As I stared down at my tummy while munching my peanut butter toast, and gulping down my chocolate milk, I noticed that my belly button was bouncing up at down in some type of apparent pattern. I worried that something might be wrong, and the baby was trying to tell me something. Or perhaps the baby was just expressing it's thanks for the wonderfully tasty breakfast. In any case, it sure looked funny!

26 weeks

Gender, Weight & Date

It's a dark and stormy Saturday morning today. The perfect kind of day to sleep in with the cats curled up at my feet, my hubby snoring next to me, and a big pot of hot tea. Also the perfect day to start the Gender, Weight & Date Prediction Game! Please comment with your prediction for the sex of our baby, it's birth weight, and birth date (remember, I'm due November 15th). I will try to send out a prize to the blogger with the closest guess. Have fun!

25 Weeks and Counting

Woohoo! We've made it to the 25 week mark! This week the baby weighs approximately one pound, nine ounces, and measures 22 centimeters crown-to-rump. Baby's ears are fully functional now, and he or she may even blink in reaction to a loud noise. The brain is growing rapidly. If we could look inside my uterus, we'd see a well-proportioned head and body. Baby's first meconium stool has been formed in the large intestine and will be excreted in the days following the birth. What an amazing miracle! God is so amazing - His creations are extraordinary! Isn't it something that we all started out this way? When you look around in a place like a crowded mall, its strange to think "All of these people exist because a woman somewhere had a successful pregnancy and delivery".

We are also getting really excited for the arrival of our new NEPHEW! He is due to arrive on August 17th, but we all think he is going to come sooner than that. It's too bad I can't be there for his arrival, but hopefully I will be able to get out to B.C. to see him shortly after he is born. With a niece and nephew as cute as these two, I can't wait to add another one to the list! Steve and Ang are such great parents too, and it has been so much fun to be pregnant with my sister-in-law Ang. We'll have to do it again sometime! Hahaha! We love you guys, and we are praying for the safe and successful arrival of nephew #2.

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom can be no variation, nor turning shadow. James 1:17

Baby Bjorn-O-Rama

My latest full time job has become shopping Ebay for a Baby Bjorn baby carrier. This great idea was brought to my attention by my friend Jeryn, who is in the same line of shopping that I am lately. To be honest, I'm not entirely sure what all the hype is about over these particular baby carriers (so if anyone knows, let me know), all I know is that they are "the best". They don't seem all that different than the Snugli carriers I've seen. Anyway, they retail at about $130 at Toys R Us, so I figure I have 3 1/3 months to get a fantastic deal on one on Ebay. So far the bidding has gone a little too high for my liking - around $85-90 (which doesn't always include shipping). I'm hoping to score one for about $60-70 (shipping included) - which is what they sell the higher end Snugli's for. I want one for our winter vacation, as the baby will only be about a month old. I'm not prepared to haul the entire stroller out there, and it would even be nice to have the carrier for on the plane - we have no seat for the baby. Thus, the obssessive Ebay browsing/watching/bidding continues... by the way, if you know anyone who wants to sell a Baby Bjorn carrier, let them know I'm looking!

NOTE: Man in photo is not my husband, nor any other relative. I have no way of tracking him down to give him your phone number.

Hmmm... what do you look like inside there baby? Scroll down to find out...

Heather

The moment you've all been waiting for... pictures of baby Pepe!

Heather

Baby's diaper bag, and first teddy bear from Uncle Steve, Auntie Ang, and cousins Emily & Thomas.

Heather

An excerpt out of my pregnancy journal that I got from my grandma.

Heather

Baby's onesie collection.

Heather

Baby's drawer of stuff.

Heather

Trying to hide.

Heather

Things non-preggo Heather would never do: order a veggie pizza - and then eat aforementioned veggie pizza entirely by herself.

Heather

We'll do anything to keep cool around here!

Heather

Everything's A-Okay!

What a lovely weekend we just had. It sure was HOT though, but what else is new. I guess this is the effect of global warming? Who knows.

I went to see the doctor on Friday, and had nothing but good reports. All my latest tests came back completely normal. My blood pressure was perfect, weight is good (just had a growth spurt apparently), and measured a perfect 23cm. The baby's heart was also pounding away, and was hard to keep track of it because the baby kept moving! How awesome is THAT?!

I can hardly wait for our ultrasound on Tuesday! I am sooooooo excited, and of course, I'll post pictures. Thanks every one for continuously blessing us with your thoughts and prayers. We love you!

Is this normal? My tummy is the same size as my sister-in-law's - but she is 8 months pregnant! Help!

Heather

Miracles

Can you believe that this little angel was born at 23 weeks? Amazing! I can't imagine that my little baby is already this big. The entire article about baby Rumaisa can be seen here. I am so amazed that my baby already has about a 15% chance of survival if born now. In the next week that percentage already goes up to more than 50%!

I just experienced something so miraculous this morning. I played a game with Pepe! I was laying in bed on my back, and Pepe was kicking me. I pushed on my tummy wherever I felt a kick, and the baby would kick back! It was sooooooo neat, and I just had thankful and awestruck tears flowing down my face. How awesome! If I push and poke I can tell where the baby is inside, but I can't tell what it is I am pushing on! If it kicks back, I know I've found some feet - but it could be punches, and what I'm feeling is hands. Who knows?!

I will give thanks to you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful. My soul knows that very well.

Psalm 139:14

Sixth Month Surprises

Can you believe I'm into the first week of my sixth month?! Wow! I cannot believe we're here already. It seems like just yesterday that we found out we were pregnant again. I am just so thankful that up till this point we have remained healthy and that baby is doing well.

My side pain that I was experiencing has gone away now. I have been trying to be very careful not to lift anything too heavy, and have avoided doing anything strenuous (this includes most house cleaning duties). Well, I still have to keep the house clean - but I haven't gone on any big cleaning benders. My cold is also gone now - hallelujah - and now I'm on to some new and more interesting pregnancy symptoms.

Due to my male reading audience I won't go into any great detail about the strange breast issue that happened last week. Still a mystery, I at least know how to make it go away - and that's all that counts. I'm still getting a lot of kicks, and some of them are really strong! I can't see anything from the outside yet - but the strongest kicks are always at night when I can't see anyway. I've also turned into an OVEN! I finally understand why women have been giving me sypathetic responses when they have heard I'll be pregnant through the summer. It is HOT. We don't have a/c in our church, and the last few Sundays I've had to sit during the singing because I felt faint from the heat. I am SO thankful we have a/c in our house. Usually I am freezing, and would ask Ryan to turn the a/c down in the car - but these days I want it blasting straight at me! He's enjoying this change, as he is always boiling. I can't sleep with blankets on, and I can't have the shower too hot, and I can't stand to be outside in the heat for more than 15 minutes. It's crazy! I've also developed swollen ankles. Ick. I put on a pair of cute sandals last week, looked at my feet and thought "oh my goodness - what did I do to my FEET?". It's not very serious swelling, but noticeable to me for sure. So, I've been trying to keep them elevated when I can. I've also been getting a lot of comments about how BIG I am. At first I didn't mind, but by now I am tired of hearing it, because it causes me to worry. I know I come from a family that gets really huge during pregnancy, and I also know it's NOT twins.

I am also really excited because Ryan and I ordered our stroller/car seat and crib on Friday! It will take a few weeks for them to arrive, but I am thrilled to know they are coming. Both items were a gift from his parents, and we just feel so blessed. I can't wait to get started on setting up the baby's room.

I've also already had one "dumb mom" moment. Yesterday Ryan's cousins were at the pool with us, and I was holding baby Ryan (3 months old). He was wearing a onesie - and he was starting to get a little fussy, so his mom asked me to check his diaper. I totally blanked. How do I check his diaper when he's all dressed up? Do I hold his bum up to my face and sniff? Do I unbutton, and undiaper him to check? I felt like a complete moron. So, I just had to ask "Um, how do I check?". Thankfully, his mom was gracious, and just kindly told me to stick a finger in and look through the leg hole. Well, it was totally black in there - I couldn't see or smell anything! So, she had to come look herself (which meant she had to come out of the pool, I'm so ridiculous) - and found that he was, in fact, clean. So maybe I'm not so dumb afterall, but I sure felt dumb! I guess I have a lot to learn. She also made me feel better when she reminded me that it will all be so different when it's my own baby. Thanks Dana for not making me feel foolish.

My latest debate has been whether or not I want an epidural. I am honestly more terrified of getting an epidural than I am about the labour pain! My whole life I've been a bit paranoid of medications, and becoming addicted to them. In many cases (like with a headache) I'd rather just tough it out than take anything for it. So, I've been going back and forth on this one. I definately don't have a need to be a hero - so if I just can't take the pain any longer, I won't feel disappointed if I go for the epidural. But some people have told me I'll enjoy giving birth more if I just get it, and be more comfortable. What did you opt to do when you had your baby? And if you haven't had a baby, what do you think you would do?

The official 5 month photo.

Heather

Can't wait to see who you are baby...

Heather

Side Pain

Alright, here is a question for you veteran mothers out there. About a month ago I started to get a pain in my right side, which feels exactly like a pulled muscle. I figured I pulled it because I had been picking up my nephew a lot, and playing with him without being really careful. After they left, it went away for the most part. I still haven't been really careful about lifting things, and have probably over-worked myself a little bit, and the pain is back. It's the worst at night, as I try to lie on my side, it doesn't matter which side I lie on it feels like I am pulling that muscle. I've tried stretching it out (ouch), and propping my tummy up with a pillow, which helps a little bit. It feels best if I lie on my back and stay really still. During the day when I'm walking around it bothers me on and off. My pregnancy books say a persistant pain is something to get checked out, and while I have a doctor's appointment coming up I keep wondering if I should be more concerned? What do you think? Personally, I don't think it's serious, and maybe I should just rely on my own instincts. I think I've just really pulled a muscle - and of course, that area is already pulled as it is! However, if it could be a more serious problem, maybe I shouldn't just be waiting around. Any suggestions?

Shopping

I had a lot of fun baby shopping on Wednesday. After all of your great advice I stopped panicking, and just browsed. I ended up finding a nice diaper bag (not too big, not too small) for $19.99, and also picked up a medical set, wash cloths, and a pack of two "onesies". I felt those were reasonable buys, and a good start to some of the essentials I'll be needing. I've also started buying a pack of diapers every now and then, so when the time comes we won't be feeling like we have to buy diapers every week! I just toss them into the grocery cart, and have been storing them away. I like to think that I will be thankful I did this later on.

Ryan and I also visited E-Children, a store in Winnipeg with fairly high end nursery furniture. I was very surprised at how reasonable the prices were! In fact, some of the cribs were a fair bit cheaper than those at Toys R Us and Sears. I also liked the fact that most of their products are Canadian made. Ryan and I tend to try to support Canadian manufacturing as much as we can. Anyway, we picked out a favourite crib, seen on page 2 here. We would get it in a darker wood though, to match the room. So, we have that and the change table/dresser (seen in the background with a hutch attached) on our wish list. We also picked out a travel system from Graco, so that' s on the wish list now too. Every day it feels more and more real, and yet still totally surreal that we have a little one on the way into our lives! What an amazing gift - I just love every day that I get to enjoy it.

Overwhelmed

This morning I printed out this list, and suddenly felt overwhelmed by the amount of stuff we still need for baby. I realize it is fairly early, but I sort of thought that if I spaced out the purchasing over the next few months it wouldn't look so bad on the credit card bill! I do realize that a lot of these items are "start up costs" for all of our next children as well. Anyway, I am still overwhelmed. What do I buy first? What is most necessary? What may come as gifts? Is it rude to ask people which items they might be considering getting for us? All these questions have my mind in a whirlwind - and here I was thinking I was trying to simplify life! Ha! Ha! Ha! One of the issues is that I'm pretty sure most of our showers will happen after the baby arrives. Would it be rude to ask for a "presentation only" shower? I have no idea!

We already have baby bedding, a baby monitor, several blankets, bottles and pacifiers. Of course, we know we need a crib and a car seat/stroller - but we will wait on these, as potentially these may come as gifts. What would your next purchases be?

Some of my thoughts: baby bath tub, towels/wash cloths, Snugli (or something similar), baby car mirror, first aid/grooming kit, nursing pillow.

Baby at 21 weeks.

Heather

Desperate Pregnant Housewife

Okay, maybe not desperate! Anyway, it seems we have come to the infamous half-way point of 20 weeks. I am so thrilled to be here, and just have to praise God for it!

Life has been good, despite another ugly cold that began to brew last week. I am now "nasally incapacitated", and I have been coughing a lot. The coughing really hurts my stomach muscles, so I've been trying to take it easy, and drinking tea calms the cough. But other than that, things are going great. Apparently this week the baby's brain starts to really grow, and so Omega 3 is the nutrient to pack in. I was proud of my lunch yesterday - a salmon salad sandwich on enriched white bread (they only had white left at the store), a caesar salad light on the dressing and a big cup of milk. I thought it looked pretty darn healthy. My latest symptoms are basically just the fetal movement, a growing belly and zits! They say a baby girl "steals her mother's looks". If that is the case, then this must be a girl - because I just don't look too hot these days.

Being a full time housewife has also been great. I love having a quiet morning to do some cleaning, or the laundry, or the dishes - or whatever! Right now the sound of the running dishwasher makes me happy. I love having the radio on, and I love being followed around by our cats - though usually they are sleeping during the day, and find ways of getting in my way. It is also nice to be able to go walking in the mornings, when I am actually motivated and invigorated to do it. I've been walking with my mom, and that has been a treat. Yesterday we were invited to a BBQ for all those living on our street - our invitation had never been received, as it blew away in the wind. So, despite the late notice, I made an impromto (humungous) bowl of "Death By Chocolate" and came home with a nearly empty bowl. This could not have been accomplished had I been working - and McCain cake would have had to suffice. Not that I'm dissing the wonderfulness of McCain cake, because I LOVE it! So, I am enjoying my early maternity leave. However, seeing as I can't apply for maternity E.I. benefits for a few more months, I will be starting to do some work from home. I have my new computer all set up, so now I just have to wait for the work to roll in. I'm looking forward to working at home, and on my own time.

Heather's Favourite "Death By Chocolate" Recipe

1 pkg. Devil's Food Cake
2 pkgs. Instant Chocolate pudding
3 cups Milk
2 lg. tubs Cool Whip
6 Skor chocolate bars
2/3 cup Kahlua (optional)

Prepare the cake as per package directions. I make mine in a big cookie sheet so it's easier to cut later. Freeze the Skor bars. Prepare the pudding with 3 cups milk and chill. Thaw the Cool Whip. Once cake is cooled, pudding is chilled and Cool Whip thawed, cut the cake into three equal parts, and then into 1" squares. Put the Skor bars in a ziplock bag, and crush fine with a rolling pin, or meat mallet. Put one layer of cake in a large bowl or trifle dish. Drizzle cake with some of the Kahlua. Top with 1/3 of the pudding, 1/3 Cool Whip and 1/3 Skor pieces. Repeat layers, ending with the Cool Whip and Skor bars on top. Keep refrigerated. Usually tastes best if it chills for 3-4 hours before serving. Enjoy!

It's A Girl!

Congratulations Myron, Tracey and big brother Elijah on the arrival of Sloane Elizabeth!

Daddy's First...

Hi everyone! I'm sorry I haven't been blogging much lately. My sister-in-law, brother-in-law and my niece and nephew have been out here visiting this week. I've been trying to see them as much as possible, so blogging has taken a back seat. I'm also frustrated with dial-up, so hopefully in the next couple of weeks I will get all set up with high speed and I will be back to my usual blogger self, as I also begin working from home. Yay!

Pregnancy has been going wonderfully the last couple of weeks - with many exciting developments! I've been feeling really good, although I seem to have pulled some muscles or ligaments on one side this week - possibly from lifting my 1 1/2 year old nephew, or maybe it's just growing pains. I hope it goes away, because it's tough enough to sleep well without a pain in my side! Anyway, I started feeling faint movements a few weeks ago, but over the last week the movements have been a lot stronger and more often. I can usually get some really good kicks if I eat and then go and lie down. Last night the baby was going nuts in my tummy after I went to bed! I ate mandarins from a can, maybe that was the trick. Anyway, the baby was going all over the place and I could feel it all from outside my tummy. I told my hubby it was his chance to feel the baby, so he lightly held his hand on my belly. Just a few seconds later Daddy got his first two baby kicks! It was so neat, I was so pumped that he got to feel it! Hopefully he will get to feel a lot more yet! The baby is actually kicking me right now as I type all this. It's just amazing, and a blessing, and incredible - I just thank God for every little kick! I've waited for this moment my whole life. Thank you Lord for the miracle of life, and all of the many experiences I get to have with it. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Forever in Our Hearts

As we near the date of Baby Plett's would-have-been due date I am reminded of a special gift that we received the day after the D & C. It was a little album given to us from my friend Heidi, who had received the same album when she miscarried with her first baby. Now a happy mother to her baby boy Kai, she wanted to pass on the gift to us, as it had been healing for her. She warned me not to even look at it until I was ready. I didn't really know at the time what she meant by that. When I first paged through the album, I thought it seemed like "too much". I didn't know that I would want to fill in all these pages about a baby I never knew, and if I wanted to put that much emphasis on it. However, after a few weeks I realized I wanted that baby to be remembered, and the next time I opened the pages they appeared like a beautiful space to record my brief memories on. If you, or anyone you know is dealing with the grief of a miscarriage, may I suggest getting this little album. It is a really special gift, and it helped me to heal as I read the pages and filled in my few little memories of our first little miracle. You can buy them online at www.quietrefuge.com for $14.99 (US).

Almost 18 weeks...

Heather

Tears & Sadness

Yesterday Ryan and I found out that dear friends of ours from B.C. lost their precious baby last week. Our hearts are aching for them, and I can't seem to keep the tears from flowing - that pain is all too real, and fresh. Despite our successful pregnancy thus far, the pain of our loss is still there and I, in particular, think of it often. I would be due in about 2 weeks. Please pray for our friends. I won't mention their names for the sake of their privacy. We know all too well how they must be feeling right now, and we wish that we could offer them better support during this time for them. It never ceases to amaze me how in life, gifts are given and taken away. Life is fleeting - live and love every moment of it as though it were your last. Blessings to you all.

"You give and take away, You give and take away, my heart is here to say 'Lord, blessed be Your name'."

The Seventeen Week Update

Hi everybody! Looks like we've made it another week - woohoo! Things are relatively the same as last week. My tummy keeps getting bigger. I saw a friend today that I hadn't seen in about a week, and she just laughed when she saw me. "Whoa, you have really blossomed in the last week!" she said. Hahaha! I just love it! After all your great thoughts, insight, advice and some prayer on my part, we decided to skip the triple screen test. I much appreciated all of your thoughts on it, and I especially liked the idea that if we were to be blessed - yes, blessed - with a child with a handicap, God would give us the strength at that time to handle it.

So, today was my first day at home. Weird! I wasn't even sure what to do with myself. I did keep quite busy though, and I'm sure once I get used to being home I'll find more and more to do (bake buns, make perogies, clean, etc.). Maybe I'll even let Ryan teach me how to use the riding mower. There are some downgrades to being at home as far as my blog goes. We are now on dial-up instead of the high speed connection I had at work. This means that photos are not as readily available to upload because they take forever. Hopefully we will know in a few months (or sooner) if we can afford to install high speed internet. For now, it's slow going for me. I also don't check my email as regularly, and already had a few people ask me today "Didn't you get my email?". Ack! I will make regular time each day to check it.

Anyway, I am getting more and more excited to meet one of my new blogger friends in person this weekend! Janelle and her daughter Kamryn will be in my hometown this Sunday! Yay!

Excellent

My appointment today went really well. When we arrived at the doctor's office, we were immediately told that we should head over to the hospital so that I could get my WinRho shot. I guess what had happened was that when I got my first shot (due to the bleeding I was having in early pregnancy) they only gave me a six week dosage, and it should have been a twelve week dosage. It's nice that someone watches for these things! So, I'm all topped off now - and don't need another shot until August. We headed back to see the Doc.

The doctor is super nice, and talks really, really fast! Her whole wall was filled with pictures of babies she had delivered. She gave me all the necessary info, and a few options to choose from for various matters. Then she measured me - a perfect measurement for 16 weeks she said! Then we listened for Pepe's heartbeat, and that was good too. A healthy 150. While we were listening to the heart, there was a little "thump" - the doctor said "That's the baby kicking you!". It happened a couple of more times while we listened. Heehee - can't wait until I can FEEL those kicks!

She offered me the triple screening test, for Spina Bifida and Down's Syndrome. Of course, we would never terminate our pregnancy - even if our child was diagnosed with a handicap. I wasn't sure what to do, so I opted to take it - knowing I could cancel it if I wanted to. I still haven't decided. Did you take it, just to find out? Or did you just skip it entirely? Or if you haven't been pregnant, what is your opinion on it?

Panic Attacks, My Last Week of Work & The Obstetrician

Yesterday I had a little bit of a scare! My doctor's secretary called and told me that the Rh Lab in Winnipeg had called, and I need to get another shot of WinRho. She seemed unsure if I needed it immediately, or if it could wait (my doctor wasn't in, so she couldn't ask her) - but she told me just to ask my obstetrician on Friday, as she new I was going to be seeing her. I hung up the phone. Two minutes later panic set in! What if I needed that shot NOW?! What if I shouldn't wait?! I called my husband, and he calmed me down, and told me to call the secretary back and ask her to ask for a doctor's opinion. I did as he told me, and although the secretary probably thought I was going nuts, she humoured me. She called back, and said the doctor on call felt it was fine to wait. Hallelujah! I mean, we're dealing with a baby's LIFE here, right?

Today is also my last full day of work. Crazy! I will likely still come in a little next week, but otherwise, I'm outta here! I'm a little scared about the drop in income, but otherwise I'm excited about all the rest of it. I will be working from home too, but that will be much more relaxing and I can work as much or as little as I like. Woohoo! So, those of you who send to my work email, please use my personal email eternal_13@yahoo.com. And, you can reach me at home during the day!

Anyway, I go to meet my obstetrician tomorrow morning. I am pretty excited! I don't have a clue what to talk to her about, but I guess she'll know. I am going to ask her to check the heartbeat again, if she doesn't already check it. I just love to hear that beat - it makes me relax. What do you suggest I should be asking her about, or talking to her about?

Congrats Shaun & Kyla on the birth of Soren Ronald Vincent. We can't wait to meet him!

Heather

My view from up here!

Heather

Capers & Coffee Cravings

Just thought I'd give you a little update on my latest symptoms, and lack of symptoms. I feel much, much better this week. Energy levels are coming back, and I'm not really nauseous at all anymore. Even my libido seems to have come back to life a little bit.

I was bragging to my mother-in-law yesterday that I seem to be hungry more often, but so far haven't had a bigger appetite. Well, I had to eat my words! The waitress brought out a plate of capers, because a few people at the table had never tried them. I ended up polishing the rest off on my own. After that, I finished off a large Greek salad, a couple of bread sticks, and my entire plate of cannelloni stuffed with ricotta cheese and spinach, and smothered in rose sauce! Usually I would have brought at least part of it home. In fact, as I kept eating I would stop and think "I must be full". But no! I wanted more, so I just kept eating. Then on our way home I was already craving a stop at DQ! I decided I had eaten enough, and we had ice cream at home if I still wanted it later. I also noticed yesterday that my sandals were tight on my feet - so I must be swelling a little bit now too. How exciting!

I am suspicious of a few "flutters" I've been feeling - but nothing that I can officially say was movement. I'll keep waiting for the moment that I can say "THAT was the baby". I also seem to have a little extra saliva, and a stuffy nose. But other than all of that - I feel fantastic. Some part of me wishes to go back to feeling sick - because that always reassured me that things were going well. Now that I feel fine I worry a bit more again, but I'm fighting it - with God's help, and the prayers of my family and friends. I get to meet my Obstetrician next week, so I'm excited about that. She will likely listen for the heartbeat, so that will give me peace of mind for another week or two.

This morning I also had my first desire to drink coffee since... who knows when! It tasted so good, but hopefully I can keep my coffee drinking to a minimum.

6 Random Facts

6 random facts about HEATHER - I've been TAGGED by Janelle...so here goes...

1. I am nine years younger than my husband. Most of our friends are his age, and when they find out how old I am they are always shocked and dismayed.

2. I still have two baby teeth in my mouth, and two adult teeth are permanently embedded in my upper jaw.

3. I have been on the Rosenort Chamber of Commerce for almost 3 years, my first year as Treasurer and the last two years as Secretary.

4. One of my favourite meals is egg noodles, topped with cottage cheese and ketchup. The same combo also tastes good on KD. Most people (including my husband) will not try it, and think it looks gross. My entire family loves it. I had one babysitter (Cora) who was brave enough to try it, and now she serves it to her kids!

5. I lost both my baby toenails in a wheelbarrow-jumping accident. They have since grown back, but have never been the same.

6. In my early teens I was an avid dirtbiker (owned a Honda XR80), and could keep up pretty well with the boys. I did it just to impress the boys I liked.

Eww, I think maybe I just look fat here - but really, it's my 15 week prego pic!

Heather

Successful Shopping

Jeryn and I had a fabulous time shopping in Grand Forks on Saturday. It was a beautiful day, and the sun shone brightly on the highway as we made our way across the border. It was nice to be able to speak without guilt about baby stuff! We asked each other all kinds of questions, and discussed everything under the sun. Our first stop was the mall, where we spent our time in JC Penney, Victoria Secret and of course, Bath & Body Works! We both had a lot of luck at JC Penney, and the clothes were really cute (and a size smaller than here in Winnipeg, so it makes you feel good about yourself). We both took out a pretty good haul there, including some cute baby clothes that we all on sale. Plus, we got another 10% off at the till! We had a nice Subway lunch in the food court, and then it was more shopping. We headed off to Gordman's, with our 20% coupons in hand. Unfortunately, they had no maternity clothes in. I ended up finding a neat stone angel lawn ornament, and Jeryn found some goodies too. From there we headed to Super Target. Wow, I could have seriously maxed out the credit card there! I was finding things I liked left, right and center - including baby furniture! I remained in control of myself, and just picked up a few little things, and some treats for Ryan. Old Navy was last, but not least, on our list. We actually had a lot of good finds there too, and we both found some clothes for our hubbies. We finished off our trip with supper at Arby's, and made the trek home to unpack all our great stuff. My find of the day had to be the camouflage capris I found at JC Penney. I love them, and they are so comfortable (see pic)! Thanks for all the good advice we got girls - we definately heeded your warnings, and tried not to buy too much stuff all at once.

Whew, that tummy is BIG! Sorry about the awful picture, it's taken with my webcam. Hubby's got the camera on his fishing trip this weekend.

Heather

This Is It!

Well, guess what everyone?! If I make it to tomorrow (which I suspect I will), I will officially have come farther in this pregnancy than the last one! PRAISE GOD! I am so excited, mostly because things are going so well, and I've started to feel much better in the last week. I am not nearly as tired, and the nausea is pretty much completely gone. Some days it still feels like I am expecting something to go badly, but most days now I am positive and looking forward to the future with this new little life. My tummy is definately showing now - I'll have to take a picture soon.

Just five months ago, at this point in my pregnancy, I called the doctor because I was having some strange symptoms. I just thought it would be some kind of infection, and she's put me on some meds and I'd be good to go. She examined me, and felt there was a serious problem. I was given an immediate ultrasound appointment, which Ryan and I went to that evening. The news was grim. We watched little Baby Plett's motionless body on the screen, and then the technician confirmed, "I'm sorry, but it looks like the baby has died some time ago". I'll never forget that horrible feeling that washed over me. My throat ached as I held back my sobs. The technician left us alone, and the tears flowed.

Looking back, I'd have to say that was the most heart-wrenching time of my life. I was so hurt, so angry, and all I wanted was to have that baby back. It amazes me how God has used that experience to get me to the point where I am now. Just five short months, and I think I am changed, hopefully for the better. How amazing that He took care of us, even when we were cursing Him for allowing our baby to be taken. How incredible, that even through great loss comes great gain. What a miracle, that He has blessed us again with a new life. God is good. I pray His blessings on each of you today, no matter what you are going through - I promise you that you can get through it if you rely on God. All you have to do is ask Him, and He'll carry your load. You can leave all your baggage at the foot of the Cross. He'll take it for you. Don't try to carry it all on your own - you were never intended or created to carry such burdens.

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7 (NIV)

SHOPPING!

I'm very excited because my friend Jeryn and I are going to make a trip to Grand Forks on Saturday to shop! It will be so fun! Jeryn is also prego, and we'll both want to find maternity summer clothes. Does anybody have any suggestions on where to go, or what to look for? I don't know how much I should get, or what to get, especially because I'm prego throughout the summer, but also into the fall and early winter. I've already got the top shown on the left. We've found a few online coupons for Gordman's too, so that will help out a little. I can't wait to hit Bath & Body Works - one of my faves!

Tomorrow! Tomorrow!

I luv ya, tomorrow! You're only a day away!

Tomorrow marks my fourteenth week of pregnancy, and come Saturday, we will have passed the mark at which we found out the previous baby had died. I'm quite excited, because everything is going really great! I'm starting to feel a little better now, although still a little nauseous in the mornings (I gag when I brush my teeth). I'm still usually pretty exhausted at the end of the day, but even that is getting better now too. My tummy is slowly expanding, and I have to be careful now when I sit and get up, or roll over in bed, because the muscles have been pretty angry at all the stretching!

I may not even be at work much longer. We found someone to fill my position, and he is ready to come right away. It was somewhat unexpected, but why wait? So, I may start training him as early as the end of the month, and be out of work by June! I don't think I'll just take the summer off though. I may be able to do some work from home, or I may go get a part time job - maybe at a greenhouse or something, because that would be so fun!

All's Well

Well, of course everything went just fine at the Doc's yesterday. She checked me out, and said that everything looked good. I potentially have the start of a mild infection, but as long as it is not giving me discomfort I'm not to worry about it. Ahhhhhhhhhh... another sigh of relief. Maybe this time I can go at least a week without a problem! She also picked up the heartbeat again, and it was loud and strong and a healthy rate of 140. The muscles in my sides are starting to pull now as my tummy continues to grow to give Pepe room to move in. Now I'm just counting down the weeks until I can start to dream about feeling a kick!

Going to see the Doc

So I've made myself an appointment with my doctor for tomorrow afternoon. Just making the appointment already makes me feel better, so I'm glad I just sucked it up and did it.

I was talking on the phone to a friend yesterday, and she was asking me why I was so hesitant to just go see my doctor if I was worried. It was a good question, and after talking about it for some time I admitted to her that it was fear holding me back. Fear that this appointment, (which sort of feels like a similar scenario to when I went in when we found out the baby had died), will end up the same way. We both found it interesting that without my conscious knowledge, my body was fearful of the pain that could potentially come from bad news, and was making me hesitant to go see the doctor. And here I just thought I was being unreasonable! Anyway, she talked me through it, and I built up the courage to call and make the appointment.

I prayed about it last night, and I already feel some peace about it all. I'm thankful for that. I'm pretty sure everything will be fine. I've just got to have faith!

WARNING: Girl's Only Post (or read at your own discretion)

Just a question for all you previously pregnant gals out there. All the books/websites say that a normal pregnancy discharge is just milky and white. What if you have a little bit of yellow, but no odor and no itching/burning? With the previous pregnancy I went to the doctor exactly because of such a discharge. This is slightly different than that one was, so I'm not in panic mode yet - just want some opinions. Should I run to the doc's, or just wait it out a little bit?

Proof of Life

If you would ask me how I'm doing today, my answer would be FANTASTIC! Ryan and I went to a doctor's appointment yesterday, and it was my dream to hear a heartbeat. I had already mentally prepared myself to not hear it, because 12 weeks is still fairly early. While the doctor was weighing me (I have gained 3 lbs. - woohoo - never gained anything in the last pregnancy), she asked if I wanted to try to hear the heartbeat. I said I did, and she warned me that we may not hear anything, and if I would be alright with that. I think she knows me better than I know myself! She probably knew that on the outside I would appear really strong, and cool as a cucumber, but on the inside I would be panicking if we didn't hear anything. Well, she conceded to try - and so I hopped up on her table to get ready. She moved the doppler around for a while, but couldn't hear anything, and was just about to give up. In my head I was saying "Lord, it would be so cool to hear it...". Just then, the doctor said, "There it is!".

thump, thump, thump, thump, thump, thump...

Tears immediately started flowing down my cheeks, but I said nothing, and I was holding my breath - I didn't want to miss one beat! She said, "It gets quieter and louder because your baby is moving all over the place!". We were all stoked - what a blessing! A heartbeat at 12 weeks. Wow. I was just praising God, and saying "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" in my head. It was amazing. I have tears pouring down my cheeks as I type this, because... it was just amazing. I finally feel like I can get excited now, and totally fall in love with this little baby. Thank you everyone, for your continued prayers and support.

Bad Things I Want to Happen to Me - Part II

Remember that post I wrote a while back (January 5, 2006)? It was a list of all the bad things I wanted to happen to me in my next pregnancy. Well, I got some of my wishes come true!

1. The achiest, sorest boobs EVER!
Yup, I definately have achy, sore boobs! For the last week they have also been ITCHY like crazy! I've tried lotion and Vaseline, but so far nothing is working. In my last pregnancy I only had sore boobs for about a month - which timewise seems to correspond with the date they feel the baby actually died. So, I'm loving my sore boobs. No complaints.

2. Constipation (again, but maybe worse this time)
Yes, I've definately been constipated again. I don't think it's worse than last time though. About the same, I'd say. I poop about once a week.

3. Bleeding - seems odd right, but I want some mega implantation bleeding.
Well, as you may have read, I even got this wish come true. It wasn't implantation bleeding, but it did lead to a couple of early ultrasounds, which was good. And, it isn't anything serious.

4. Vomit and crazy nausea
Okay, I've had a lot of nausea, and lately I'm nauseated mostly by my OWN cooking! How weird is that?! I puked once, but I think that was just a fluke because of my cold. The biggest thing that makes me nauseous is meat. I like to eat it, but just thinking about it... gross.

5. Heartburn
No sign of any heartburn as of yet.

6. Breast secretions
No secretions yet, but I expect it is yet to come.

7. I want to be dead tired
Can I take this one back?! Man, have I EVER been tired. I feel like I could sleep and sleep. I get home from work, take a nap, and I'm ready for bed at 9:00. I've just been dragging myself around for the last couple of months. Thankfully, I think my energy levels are getting better.

8. Darkening areolas
Not that I've noticed. I don't know that mine will change until later, if at all? Does everyone's change?

9. Cravings for the worst foods ever
This is a definate yes! I've been totally anti-fruit and vegetable. All I want is chocolate, chips, candy (Nerds), cookies and anything else sweet or salty. I had cravings last time, but this time it's nuts! Oh, and I have every kind of Cheerios on hand - can't stop eatting them. Good thing those are relatively healthy. I've also craved Arby's, Spicy Seafood Penne from Earl's, and marble cheese.

Relief

Man, am I relieved to have finally been able to tell all of you our great news! I was dying there for a few months, just wanting to spill the beans, but my hubby kept saying, "not yet, not yet". Then, just last week, the news leaked from one of my (many) secret-keepers, and before we knew what was going on we were being congratulated left, right and center. So, out came the news! A little early, but I'm totally fine with that.

My sister-in-law, Ang, is also pregnant, with their third baby. I am trailing her by a mere 13 weeks or so. It will be so fun to have cousins so close in age! I just wish they could live closer together to be able to grow up together, and go to school together. Well, maybe that wish will come true.

One of Ryan's cousins also recently had a baby. Congrats to Adam, Margaret and Keira on the arrival of a new little boy - Lance!

Lance was born in April, Ang is due in August, and I am due in November - and we are all booked on a flight to leave for Hawaii together in December! That means there will be a 1 month old, a 4 month old, an 8 month old, a 2 year old, a 5 year old, and a 7 year old all in business class! This also means that the hotel will need to provide at least 4 cribs, and 4-5 strollers. This also requires that as a family we would need 6 car seats, and in the off chance that we all go out to eat together, we would need at least 3 high chairs. It is going to be NUTS! Can you imagine how many diapers we're going to go through? But I can't wait!

FINALLY - The Big, Fat Blog Post

So, here goes... I'm going to recap the events from the last month.

This was my post on March 6, where I've since left you hanging:
Last night I called my good friend Terrilee for advice. She told me that I could possibly have done the test too early - especially if my cycle is still somewhat obscure, or if my hormones are still out of whack. So, based on her (experienced) advice I will do the following: wait another week, and if I still have not had a period I'll do another test. If the test is positive - YAY! If it's still negative, then I will probably go see my doctor. So, the wait begins... but at least I'm feeling a little more upbeat.

Well, I waited another week (less a day), and did another test first thing in the morning. I was SO afraid, but I sat on the toilet lid and prayed and waited. I looked at the test, and... nothing. Dejected, I sat there for a few minutes crying, and just asked God what I was supposed to do next. I picked up the test to toss it, and then noticed...


... an incredibly faint, barely there pink line had developed on the test! WHAT?! My hands were shaking, I just could not believe my eyes - let alone the test. I tried to convince myself that such a faint line probably meant nothing. Maybe that was an "evaporation" line. But no, ANY line on a pregnancy test indicated a positive result. I was PUMPED!

Ryan was upstairs, and I went to the bottom of the stairs and yelled up at him, "Honey, I'm pregnant again!". Silence. "Honey, we're going to have a baby!". Silence. Finally, "Really? Are you sure?". "YES! I'm SURE!".

He took one look at that faint, faint line and decided he wouldn't believe it until the word came from the doctor's mouth that we were, in fact, carrying another new little life inside. I already had an appointment booked, because whether it was a yes or no, I was going to go see her anyway.

Sure enough, she confirmed that we were prego again, and we could finally rejoice together!

The first few weeks were relatively uneventful, but all of a sudden I started to feel gross. I felt pukey all day and all night, didn't want to eat, and was grumpy as ****. I was THRILLED! I never had any strong symptoms like that in my first pregnancy. Something was definately different, and something was definately working!

At week 7 I started to get some weird pains in my sides, and had some slight spotting. I freaked out, and went immediately to my doctor. She decided we should test for an ectopic (tubal) pregnancy - so I did some blood tests to measure my level of hormone production, and went in for an early ultrasound. We couldn't see much at the ultrasound, because the baby was so microscopic at that point. All the baby was was a blink on the screen! There was some bleeding of the yolk sack detected, but was told it was nothing to worry about - it would likely heal on it's own. They did ask me to come back in two weeks so they could see more.

So, I went back on week 9 and had another ultrasound. We saw baby - and baby had a beating heart and appeared to be fine. The bleeding had also looked to have stopped! Hallelujah! We were soooooooooo happy! The very next day I saw my regular doctor, and she said my blood tests showed a perfect doubling of my hormones, and so that was totally normal. Another hallelujah! We did discover, however, that because I am Rh Negative I would need a WinRho shot because of the yolk sack bleed. So, we did that. Now I have to get shots every 12 weeks, just in case the bleeding would continue.

Since then, things have been going well. I still feel exhausted, moody, and occasionally nauseous - but I've only puked once, and that was because I had a cold and it triggered something in my stomach. My tummy is bulging, I've gained 3 pounds, I have major cravings (Arby's, Arby's and more Arby's, and Cheerios), and at the moment I can't stand the thought of vegetables or fruits. My complexion is hideous, and my hair is dull - but I am just praising God!

The fears have not faded, however. I am very nervous, and anxious, and as week 14 (the week we found out we'd lost Baby Plett) approaches, I keep looking to God to strengthen me, and make be brave. So, we're 11 1/2 weeks prego - and due in November. God is awesome!

Thank you Lord, for answering our prayers. Thank you for your healing hand, and for blessing us once again. Protect our little angel, and protect all the little angels of all the other pregnant women who are reading this right now... and those that aren't. You are so good to us. Thank you. Amen.

Blog Scavenger Hunt

I've added something new to my blog! See if you can find it!

A Reminder to Myself

"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2 Corinthians 4:17

So true. Our lifetime to God is like a snapshot - just one microscopic moment. Our everyday afflictions will be but a grain of sand in comparison to the eternal life we have to look forward to. It may not make it easier to go through the tough times, but it sure puts it in perspective and gives us something to look forward to in the meantime!

God Can Use A Blog

I was reflecting this morning on why I had originally started this blog. It was started just prior to me finding out I was pregnant, and it was supposed to be this lovely journey through my perfect pregnancy, and the birth of our first beautiful baby. How interesting as I look back now and see what it has become. I could never have known that it would become this forum of hope and miracles. Only God could have known that, and made this blog into what it has become to me. When I write here, I am opening up a part of me that I haven't shared in a long time - my faith - and how it empowers me, and gives me peace and hope even when I don't think I have any strength left to find it.

I never knew things would happen this way, but because of it I have made new friends, found depth in my beliefs and my faith in my loving God and Saviour. I have grown more in love with my husband, and learned to cherish people more than anything else on the earth. I believe I am stronger, and I believe I can get through anything with Christ. I don't fear the future as much as I used to. In fact, I'm really looking forward to it!

I know that this blog is going to have a happy ending, and one day I will be able to record all about the beautiful babies that my husband and I will have. However, right now I am thankful that it started out this way. Yes, truly thankful. I am so glad all of you have been following along with me on this difficult journey, and I hope you've been learning things with me. It's amazing, but God can use a blog.

Don't Hate Me!

I'm sorry I'm going to do this to you, but I'm going to hold off on that "big, fat blog post" for just a bit - upon request. It will all make sense once I explain everything, but for now you will just have to be patient with me! I have other people's feelings to consider in this matter, and I have to respect that, so I'll just have to wait.

I guess I'm just a really open person, and I don't mind sharing deep feelings and some personal information openly in a public forum such as this. However, I have family members that do not share this same openness, and they are uncomfortable with it. I see their point, and I will take their advice about not just "putting everything out there" for the world to see. I suppose there is something to be said for privacy.

However, please keep praying for us - your prayers are working miracles! Love you all!

Good News

Yesterday's appointment went really, really well! Yay! We got some good news, and that is a huge sigh of relief for us. Today I see my regular doctor, and then I will have everything I need in order to write a big, fat blog post on Monday.

Until then, have a blessed Easter. May God richly bless you this Easter season, as you celebrate His amazing sacrifice for us. Praise God!

More Appointments

Well, tomorrow is my next appointment - and it will be a fairly important one. If you were lacking things to pray about, throw this one onto your list. I'm crossing my fingers that after tomorrow I will have a clear understanding of everything, and I will be able to share here what's been going on. Then, the following day, I have an appointment with my regular doctor, so hopefully she will have some results for me from some tests, etc. It's going to be a busy week...

Fragility of Life

It's not a new concept. We've all been told a thousand times before, "life is fragile", "live every day like it's your last", "no one lives forever". However, it has really only become real to me this past year with the death of our precious baby. Our days here on earth are numbered. All of us have the same fate - no one will be here forever.

Now, more than ever before, I want to be surrounded by family and friends at all times. My heart aches to have my brother and sister-in-law, niece and nephew living far away. These years go by so quickly, and it's so easy to take them for granted. Occasionally this has overwhelmed me lately, as I want to make sure that my every last breath is used so that others will say when I'm gone "she made a difference in my life". Those are some tough shoes to fill.

These days, the little bit of dust on the windowsill doesn't bother me so much. The laughter of children playing in the spring run-off is refreshing. My husband walking through the door after work is heaven. Everything is more precious, everything is more beautiful.

To think that God blessed me, a wretched sinner, with all of these earthly blessings. Why me? I definately don't deserve it. I also realize, more than ever, the importance of having my family and friends following Christ. I want them to share my eternal home with me. How can I tell them how important this is without turning them away forever? Or will my tear-stained cheeks, and pleading eyes impart to them the value of my words, and the truth of my actions? Or maybe a simple hug will plant a seed deep in their hearts that Christ Himself will water, and I will see all of those wonderful faces when we walk hand-in-hand through that glorious Gate someday.

These are probably fairly deep and scary thoughts for a Tuesday morning, but it was on my heart. I pray for each of you daily, that my words posted here will bless you, encourage you, and give you peace. May God richly bless you today. May everything good in your life seem extra sweet!