More Baby Bean Stuff....

Baby Bean and I went for our 2 week check up yesterday.  Baby Bean weighed in at 8lbs 2oz and 20 1/4 inches long (2 wks ago the stats were - 7lbs 9 oz and  19 1/4 inches long).  Doc said he eats way too much,  looks great and is a very handsome baby!  I couldn't agree more with all three of her statements!

The doc must think I look tired, because she asked me how I was holding up!  :)

In Love...

I'm in love with a boy.... for the 4th time.

My baby boy is 2 weeks old today!

Baby Bean, I feel like you are the missing piece to my puzzle......

Thank you Lord for entrusting us to hold, cuddle, kiss, love and teach this precious baby boy.

Picture courtesy of Sharon.

Yummy! 1-2-3

Our very talented and gracious friend, Sharon, offered to do newborn pictures for us.  She came and spent a few hours with us on Saturday and this is just a few of the many FABULOUS shots she got.  I've never done a newborn shoot before and was thrilled that she was willing to do this for us.

Looking at these pictures reminds me of how truly blessed I am.  I think no. 3 has been the "charm" for me.  Maybe the "poo hasn't hit the fan yet", but I sure am a lot more relaxed about this one than the others.  Maybe because God has answered so many prayers.  Maybe because I've had my awesome mother here to help me everyday.  Maybe because my husband is so loving and willing to do things at home for me, help out with the boys- all while still working extra hard to finish his many assignments that are DUE!

I truly can't think of a time that I was more content with life.  Sure, I've gotten a little cabin fever, but I have so enjoyed just being at home and playing with the boys...or WATCHING them play.  Life has become really REALLY simple.  There might be dirt on the floor.  The bathrooms might need cleaning, but I've been able to let go- if even just a tiny TINY bit.  Life still goes on.  My first priority are these 3 handsome darlings.  Its hard to remember, but life will wait- these precious babes and these ages will not.

Who knows what our family size will be...... this might be it..... and if so, I want to remember this time and hold it close.  I am enjoying every.moment with my little family.  I am probably a little selfish, but our time together as a family is so priceless- I just want to savor every moment.... even the screeching and fighting moments.

Babywearing And Movement

A few weeks ago I was asked to review Chick-n-chickens for International Babywearing Week.  I was intrigued by the idea of babywearing and being able to exercise at the same time, so I happily agreed.  I didn't gain any more weight this pregnancy than the other two, but I must admit that I started this pregnancy a little heavier than I would have liked too, so I am very motivated to get some of this baby weight off and SOON!

 I received the DVD/CD set and watched it once to get an idea of what this was all about.  I liked the music and really liked the sling that the women used.  I especially liked the exercise moves that these women did- you could tell that they were working out and that it would tone up a new momma.

Once the older boys got in bed, I turned the DVD on, put Baby Bean in my Sleepy Wrap and decided to try it.  I didn't do too much since I'm really not suppose to be exercising for a while, because of the csection, but I was amazed at how even just carrying a 7lb baby was definitely a work out while doing the exercises.  I felt that the music was upbeat and kept you motivated.  I didn't have to worry about Baby Bean waking up or interrupting my "exercising" because he was already on me and happy.  Once I fully recover from the surgery I plan to sling Peanut and do this DVD.  He is almost 30lbs, so I know I'll really feel the burn with him!  Plus, it'll be a way that I can bond with just him since he really does love to be worn.

Chicks-n-Chickens Celebrate International Babywearing Week

9/25 Chicks-n-chickens on www.iwearyourshirt.com
9/25 Free class at DayOne, Walnut Creek, CA, at noon


And coming in October

10/15 Pregnancy.org Radio @ 11am

If you're interested in checking this neat and fun way of exercising with your baby, you can buy it at Barnes and Nobles.

A big thank you to the gals (or chicks) for allowing me to review this really neat product!  I can't wait to really start movin' and groovin' with my babies!

Babywearing Again....

On Monday, while Hubbie had taken Bubbie to school, I decided to get up and move a little bit.  I didn't over do it, but I did putter around the house and do little straightening things.  Since Baby Bean had eaten and spends most of his days in some type of baby invention (swing, bouncer, etc.) I decided to pull out the sling and wear him while I did my puttering.  Ahhhhh.......  Baby Bean was perfectly content and made a funny, contented sigh the whole time.  Finally fell asleep and he was OUT!  I can not tell you how glad I am that I am back to babywearing again.  Its been a long 8 months without wearing a child.  I sure did miss carrying Peanut, but I will again once I fully recover from my csection.  

Babywearing is such a wonderful thing for me and, so far, my babies.  I had my hands free to do my puttering and picking up (don't worry- not bending and picking).  Baby Bean was content and eventually fell asleep.  I wish I had known about this babywearing thing with Bubbie.  Better late than never!  

My Granny and Papa, and my parents gave us some money for a baby gift, so I've been busy trying to figure out what our next sling purchase will be.  I have been drooling over a Baby Hawk mei tai for about a year now.  I am so tempted to get one of those to use with Peanut now and then Baby Bean later.  Or I also like the Ergo baby carrier and think its a bit more manly for Hubbie to use.  Baby Bean is, of course, still an infant and small, and I plan to wear him in my Nonny and Boo sling(can't link to the site- they've closed) and my Sleepy Wrap.  Peanut is too heavy for the Sleepy Wrap- at least for me, so we definitely need one that will be flexible to use for a toddler and a baby.  Any suggestions?

Interested in Babywearing?  Check out Steph's awesome giveaway and review opportunity in honor of International Babywearing Week.  

Debt Tale....

In the winter of 2005, Bubbie was almost a year old, Hubbie got sick and lost his job because of missing work and we were up to our EYEBALLS (no exaggeration) in debt.  We borrowed money from our parents and I was still working, but because of our enormous debt, we could pay for all of our bills, but things like food and gas in our cars was gonna be a "luxury item".  Hubbie and I were at our wit's end and our marriage was falling apart.  These details have been written about NUMEROUS times on this blog, so I won't bore you with it all again.  


We did what any good American would do- turned to credit cards.  We had been using credit cards our whole marriage expecting Hubbie to get this fantasy "dream job" and then all would be okay in the world, because we'd pay off our cards.  One of our credit cards that had the highest limit was a Bank of America card.  When I received the card, the limit was so ridiculous, I just KNEW we'd never put that much money on it.  A month or two after Hubbie losing his job and then getting a job that made almost half as much as he had been making, we had maxed out that card.  When I say MAXED out, I mean, we went over.  It was one of the most defeating feelings in the world to have that much of credit card debt and just on ONE card.  Of course, our credit limit and overage fees were ridiculous.  

Fast forward four years later, we've paid off all of Hubbie's credit cards (3 or 4, I think, totaling over 3 or 4 thousand), our car (close to $25,000) and one of my cards ( again, another 3 or 4 thousand).  We still have Hubbie's stupid wonderful school loans, which, by the time we pay them off, will have become another member of our family.  We also have two small credit cards.  Slowly, but surely, those last two credit cards are becoming less and less..... they are such small amounts that its really annoying to still see the bills every month, but we just don't have the funds to pay them off in one lump sum, so little by little, we pay, every month.  


A few weeks ago we got the statement for that MAXED out BOA card.  I am so tickled.  The balance is FINALLY under $1000.  If you just knew what the balance was 4 years ago, you'd probably be crying and dancing with me!  Gosh!  It feels so good to be so close to getting these credit cards out of our lives for good.  I should be just as worried about the school loan as I am about these credit cards, but I'm not.  I know everything will eventually get paid, but after, almost, 4 years.... well, 4 years in January, of paying off this crap and to know that we are so close, its almost like our crazy ways are finally paying off!  


Its hard, at times, to not get the i-wanta's and to think that a little extra would help...and yes, a little extra money would be lovely, but we are proof that no matter WHAT your salary is, you CAN pay off debt.  You CAN live on a budget.  You can do it!  It is possible!  I am living my dream as a stay at home mom.  I have gone to work everyday, living on little, paying all of my paycheck to debt and leaving my beloved child.  God knows the desires of your heart- tell Him.  


For more info on our debt free path, visit Dave Ramsey's site.  

My Three Sons

take 1....

take 2.....

take 3.....

Life with three boys has yet to be boring!  It has been an adventure.  Its actually really hard to remember days without precious Baby Bean.  He is so sweet and yummy!  I am trying to remember to savor every moment and take a day at a time.  My baby is a week old.

God has been faithful and answered so many of my prayers and concerns.  God has kept our family healthy.   God has given me a really good experience at the hospital and with my 3rd csection.  God has allowed my body to heal so that if we do feel that there is a no 4 baby in our future- we can have a 4th csection.  Nursing the third time around has been the easiest.  God has allowed me to heal and move and recover from the csection a lot faster than the other two.  I could go on and on.  So many worries.  So many things that I stressed and prayed about and asked for prayers about.  He has answered them all.

Fell Head Over Heels..... In More Ways Than One

Posted this for a blogging swap about a month ago....  thought I would share it on my blog as well in honor of National Babywearing Week!

I fell head over heels in love in December 2007. Not only did we welcome our newest member to the family, Little Peanut, but also, I was introduced to baby wearing. Baby wearing was something so foreign and exciting to me. To be able to wear your baby- comfortably- and still have hands free! What an idea!

I had tried a "normal" baby carrier with my oldest son, Bubbie, but we could never get it to "fit" just right on my body. Hubbie tried it once while we were out of town and that was hilarious- those carriers are NOT made for a larger framed man! We eventually gave up trying.

Around the time I found out that I was expecting Peanut, I found Stephanie's blog over at Adventures in Babywearing and I was intrigued! I couldn't wait to do the same thing with my new baby. I researched different types of slings. I wrote Stephanie MANY emails. My sister in law, Jana, and I chatted about what type of slings we liked the look of and wished we could get our hands on some of these slings and test them out before buying them.

I was so desperate for information on this "new idea". I eventually figured out that babywearing was NOT new.... I guess I had just lived in a bubble and never seen it. It is stil very rare around our town, but becoming more and more popular.

So, from Stephanie's suggestions, I got a ring sling. I purchased a "mom made" ring sling off of Ebay and then also bought a Hotsling. Unfortunately, the Hotsling wasn't made for me. I tried and tried. I think I purchased the wrong size. I could never get Peanut in without feeling like I was suffocating him. I tried the same cradle hold in the ring sling with no success. I wrote Stephanie and asked her about other types of holds. She told me that perhaps a chest to chest hold in the ring sling would work better. We tried that and SUCCESS! Peanut loved it. I loved it. It was a beautiful bonding time. I could lean down and kiss that soft, furry head of Peanuts and still have 2 hands to help and play with Bubbie or cook!

Once we mastered the ring sling, we saw the Sleepy Wrap on a review blog. I quickly purchased it and were thrilled when it arrived. The Sleepy Wrap is very similar to the Moby Wrap. I actually don't know if anything is different about the two. The Sleepy Wrap is made out of a stretchy cotton and wraps around your body to hold your child. It is absolutely a fabulous idea and works wonders. Every time I put Peanut in it, he was absolutely the happiest and most content child. I wore that thing EVERYWHERE! I would sling Peanut in it for longer grocery trips and put Bubbie in the front of the grocery buggy. I had one child tied to me and two free hands to help the other. Even Hubbie could join in the babywearing fun with the Sleepy Wrap. It is so long that I think one-size fits all or at least the majority. Hubbie wore Peanut a lot when we went on family outings. The sleepy wrap quickly replaced my ring sling and became the sling of choice in our family.

Then, when I had thought I had seen all there was to see about slings, I won a fabulous contest and the prize was a sling! A brand new ring sling from Nonny and Boo (who have now closed down). I never knew that ring slings were so fabulous. I was able to wear Peanut in it for a few short months before I found out that I was expecting Baby Bean and no longer felt like carrying another child. The ring sling from Nonny and Boo has been a wonderful addition to my sling collection. I love the thickness of the fabric. I love that I don't have to adjust it constantly, like my other ring sling. I holds Peanut's weight- 25lbs or heavier.

So, there you have it, my baby wearing experience! I have loved the bonding that comes from baby wearing. I love the ease and convienence. I love that it isn't difficult to do. I cannot wait until I can start babywearing again with my newest son.

What We Have Been Up To....

Bubbie and Peanut came home on Friday afternoon.  Since then Hubbie and I have had our hands full, but we've been happy to have our family back under one roof.  The brothers have been attentive and very sweet to their new brother.  Bubbie has been trying to "play" with the baby and bringing Baby Bean toys.  Peanut has insisted that Baby Bean have his pacifier.  Baby Bean has NOT taken kindly to a pacifier being shoved into his mouth!

Both boys have, so far, done fabulous with accepting this newest addition.  The hardest part for me has been not being able to pick him Peanut or trying to keep his body controlled around my tummy.  My milk has come in, so that is causing difficulties.  I'm taking one day at a time.  Trying not to think about anything else than what is in front of me.

Old Navy Win!

I have always liked Old Navy.  I use to spend all my clothing money at Old Navy and Rich's before I got married, piled up a ton of debt and then started to spend VERY THRIFTY.  I loved their jeans (and still do) and their sales are GREAT!  Can't really tell you HOW MUCH money I've spent at Old Navy over the years!  I feel like in the last year or two Old Navy has taken a little more time pricing items to be a bit more affordable.  I can't say that I buy the boys clothes there though.  I tend to still stick with Target and consignment sales.  I still can't stomach a $10 pair of jeans for a baby!    Call me CHEAP!  ;)

A few weeks ago I got an email from Old Navy and I started to drool over their new Fall clothing pieces.  Remember- a few weeks ago I was VERY PREGNANT AND VERY READY to NOT BE pregnant any longer!  I longed to put a pair of pants on that actually COVERED my stomach.  Oh and belts!  And shoes that weren't flip flops because that was the only thing that was comfortable and JEANS!  I could just go on and on!  I quickly closed the web page because I knew it was gonna be several months.

Then Steph had a giveaway palooza in honor of Ivy turning a year.... guess what day?!  September 15th!  Never did I imagine a year ago, when Stephanie was twittering her home birth experience, that I would have a new baby a year later!  Anyway, one of the giveaways was a $50 Old Navy gift card and guess what?!  I won!  Woo hoo!  Can't tell you how THRILLED I am that I have a little extra to spend on some clothes once all this baby weight is history! 

Thanks Steph!

Introducing.....

Born 9-15-09 at 8:22am.
7lbs 9oz
19 1/4 inches long


Welcome to the world Baby Bean!  

My MOPS year!

Our MOPS year began last Tuesday night with our first ever night meeting.  This night meeting idea started as a gal's vision and I am thrilled to have been able to be apart of it.  I have such a soft spot for working moms.  I think its because I know what these women are going through.  I'm not sure any mom REALLY wants to work.  Maybe, if they do, I just can't relate, but the majority of the moms WANT to be with their kids.... maybe not on a consistent basis....but you know what I'm talking about.  When I even think about considering to go back to work part time- just to make things comfortable or to help out- I shudder and KNOW I could only do it if I had to!  I'd miss my kiddos TOO much!

This past Tuesday our day MOPS mtgs started.  I, unfortunately, missed the first one.  I've known all year, pretty much, that I would miss it, but I was still a little sad to miss seeing so many friends.  I am definitely looking forward to getting back into the moving and grooving and able to go places again!

Bring on 2009-2010 MOPS year!  I think God has SO much in store for our group this year.  I've already seen so many wonderful changes.  I had my doubts in the beginning because of quite a few things, but as the Summer has passed, and I've given a few "issues" to God, I've seen His hands already in our year!

If you don't know what MOPS is, check it out here!  Stay at home moms (or even working moms)that don't have MOPS or a similar type of moms group, how do you survive?!  Its an absolute God-send!

Can't Sum It Up...

I love the power of prayer.  Two weeks ago, if you had asked me if I were excited, well, to be honest, I would have said no!  I am not a fan of pain.  Thankfully I know what to expect this time around with no 3 csection, but still, you forget some things and there is a REASON for that!  I've asked every friend and family member to be in prayer for me during this week.  I can honestly say the sense of peace and calmness that God has surrounded me with has been amazing.  God is such a faithful listener to prayers.

As I was hurrying around the house getting the boys up from their nap, dressed, fed and then packed in order to go stay with their grandparents for the "D-day", I heard this song on a blog.  It definitely fed my soul.    

The Lord is my light and my salvation—

      so why should I be afraid?

   The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger,

      so why should I tremble?

 When evil people come to devour me,

      when my enemies and foes attack me,

      they will stumble and fall.

 Though a mighty army surrounds me,

      my heart will not be afraid.

   Even if I am attacked,

      I will remain confident.

 The one thing I ask of the Lord—

      the thing I seek most—

   is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life,

      delighting in the Lord’s perfections

      and meditating in his Temple.

 For he will conceal me there when troubles come;

      he will hide me in his sanctuary.

      He will place me out of reach on a high rock.

 Then I will hold my head high

      above my enemies who surround me.

   At his sanctuary I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy,

      singing and praising the Lord with music.

 Hear me as I pray, O Lord.

      Be merciful and answer me!

 My heart has heard you say, “Come and talk with me.”

      And my heart responds, “Lord, I am coming.”

 Do not turn your back on me.

      Do not reject your servant in anger.

      You have always been my helper.

   Don’t leave me now; don’t abandon me,

      O God of my salvation!

 Even if my father and mother abandon me,

      the Lord will hold me close.

 Teach me how to live, O Lord.

      Lead me along the right path,

      for my enemies are waiting for me.

  Do not let me fall into their hands.

      For they accuse me of things I’ve never done;

      with every breath they threaten me with violence.

 Yet I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness

      while I am here in the land of the living.

 Wait patiently for the Lord.

      Be brave and courageous.

      Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.

Then and 8 Mos Later...

Feels like just yesterday we bought the boys these shirts to surprise Nana and Pops with the "news".  I'll never forget Nana's response when she figured out the shirts.... took her a second to figure out that Peanut shouldn't be wearing a "Big Brother" shirt.   Her response was- "Well, good job, Hubbie"(used his real name)!

Now, 8 mos later, I am huge enough for EVERYONE to ask me that one word question- "Twins?"

We found out a few days before the cruise(May) that we were expecting another boy.  Hubbie and I were both excited to hear that news and it was so nice to finally know what the little creature inside of me was going to be.

Bubbie is a-ok with another brother coming to live with us.  Today he told me that this was enough and that our family would be done with a 5 person family.  Peanut is....well..... he's in the 2's stage and quite the Momma's boy!  We'll see what happens, but I have realized that he will definitely need more reassurance and a lot of attention.  I read something the other day that said that Peanut-aged kiddos have no emotional connection to this new living "thing".  It will take a while for him to adjust and come to love and accept a new attention stealer brother.

Our family will go from 4 people to 5.  I hate the adjustment period and looking forward to my whole family being under our roof again and us getting use to a new normal.  I wouldn't do this if it weren't worth it.... which is why we left our family size up to God about 2 yrs ago.

Bring on baby!  Let the good times begin!

Beginning..... to Look Like?

Mr. Sun goes down a lot quicker these days- the days are getting shorter  There is talk of Fall activities around our house.  I went ahead and made my first pot of chili the other day.  Its for c-section recovery and I planned it in our meal schedule for sometime at the end of the month....in hopes that the weather would be a tad bit cooler for the yummy meal. I tend to use my crockpot a WHOLE lot more during the Fall.

Even if our days still get warm, our mornings seem to have a change to them...maybe a little less humid......maybe a slight breeze.  Not sure.  I just know that I can not wait.  When Fall starts coming to town, I have a bit more energy.  Not sure why.  Maybe its all in my head.  I open the windows, turn on music and I feel like I can accomplish anything just by doing those two things.  If its nice outside, I can sit outside and play with the boys for hours..... if its hot, its a big sacrifice- pregnant or not- to be outside!  I even enjoy raking... I know, call me odd.  I don't enjoy HOW LONG it takes to do our yard or how OFTEN we have to rake, but something about raking and getting something accomplished that you can look back and see the finished product.  I tend to think REALLY well while raking...... unfortunately it'll be about 2 months before I even TRY to rake after this baby comes out! 

We tend to do the same things every year in the Fall.  Hubbie has plans to run a few races including his 1/2 Marathon.  We will do our annual apple picking trip with family which will be extra special this year with Baby Bean joining us only a year after introducing Peanut to the apple orchard, that we've been going to since 1992.  We usually visit a pumpkin patch and will probably head back to the one we tried out last year.  And we can't forget one of our favorite things, the Greek Festival every October!  Yum!  I think, in the month of October, every single weekend has SOMETHING on the calendar.  I hope we can keep up and stay well, because, again, I LOVE THIS TIME OF THE YEAR! The sweaters!  The cup of tea to warm your hands!  The smells!  Ahhhh.......... 

I wish it could be Fall all year long.  I think I would be much more productive!  Spring doesn't affect me the way Fall does.  I like winter, but I don't LOVE it.  I like it because of my boy's birthdays and Christmas!  And I dread Summer.... the only thing that makes Summer more tolerable is the "laid back- ness".

Hurry up Fall!  Lu is READY!  

The Waiting Game...

We've been in the waiting game now for the last few weeks.  Every nudge or kick or sudden need to go potty has made me think "Is this it?"  C-section countdown has started and we're down to days and hours now- not weeks anymore.

The c-section has been scheduled.  Boys are semi-packed for "vacation".  Food has been bought, made and frozen.  Bills have been paid.  MOPS has been gracious to start planning meals for our family once we return from the hospital.  Friends have offered help and food and prayers.

The room is as done as its gonna get before Baby Bean joins our family.  I still have a few things to do, but ITS DONE!

I dread what is about to happen, just because I know the difficulties.  I've been told by some people that their third c-section was far worse than any others.  I've been told by others that their third c-section was the best yet.  No one knows!  My first was a horrible experience- I can't even go into what all was wrong with that.  My second wasn't fantastic, I mean, I didn't leap out of bed and sing and dance a jig!, but I was more mentally prepared for what was to come and I knew what to question, I knew my body better and I knew when to say "NO!".  This time around, I'm going into thinking that same mindset, its gonna difficult at times, but I've done it before and I can do it again!  I'll be honest.  I'm not looking forward to much this week, but the thing that I keep focusing on is that I have an awesome support system and have SO many people praying for me.  I have the absolute best friends and family and a wonderful prayer circle that will be lifting me and Baby Bean up in prayer!  Another thing that I keep focusing on is seeing Baby Bean's face.  I have an idea of what he's gonna look like- just a guess, of course- and looking forward to seeing him, holding him and knowing that he is safe and in my arms.

Since so many friends and family read my blog, I just wanted to ask two things, well, three really, if you know when the c-section is scheduled for and where, please keep it to yourself when commenting.  Some people know the exact hospital, time and etc and others don't.  We don't want that information out all over the internet.  :)

Also, since the local hospitals are posting rules for visitors right now with the swine flu going around town (One hospital- no one is allowed under the age of 12 and no one is allowed with a cold or flu like symptoms and another hospital- no one is allowed under the age of 18 and no one allowed with a cold or flu like symptoms), we are asking that, unless we've asked for you to come, or we've talked with you already, please call ahead before coming up to the hospital.  We are going to severely limit the number of visitors to the hospital and to our home, because of all the sickies floating around.  If you plan to bring a meal or have already signed up to bring a meal, please don't bring any children with you into the house and if you've been sick or aren't feeling great, just call and cancel the meal with us.  We'd rather keep our family germ free!  Thank you so much for your understanding, love and support!

Last thing is that we would covet your prayers right now.  Any time you bring a child into the world, whether its your first or your fifth, you're never prepared and you gotta take one day at a time.  We are so looking forward to adding another precious member to our family.  We know the difficult times will be worth it- if it wasn't, we wouldn't have left our family size up to God over two years ago, but we also know that there will be challenges.  Just pray that God keeps our family healthy and safe and that Baby Bean is okay!

So, I'll have some posts that will automatically post this week, but more than likely I'll be in the hospital getting  to know our new son, and once I have some pictures and we're settled, I'll post the BIG NEWS!

Here is ONE last picture for the whole world to see how HUGE I got with Baby no 3!

39 weeks 3 days pregnant with no. 3 baby boy!  

The Terrible Two and A New Baby?

Over the last few weeks, Hubbie and I have noticed some strange behavior from our once cuddly and always loveable Peanut.  Several days this past week he has left me quite astonished and angry from his lack of thoughtfulness.  I guess we have hit the terrible 2's.  I don't really remember Bubbie having HORRIBLE terrible 2's.  I mean, he had tantrums and episodes of screaming, etc, but for the most part, I think the 3's were MUCH worse.  Peanut has decided to NOT follow his brother and go ahead and break us in REALLY fast!

The other day Hubbie called and said that he was going to read something to me.  He read (below) and said to see if it sounded like anyone we knew!  Take one guess?!  Yes, Peanut!  This is my child summed up!  

SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• plays alongside others more than with them
• acts shy around strangers
• likes to imitate parents
• easily frustrated
• affectionate - hugs and kisses
• insists on trying to do several tasks without help
• enjoys simple make-believe like talking on phone, putting on hat
• very possessive - offers toys to other children but then wants them back
• needs considerable time to change activities
• capable of frequent tantrums, which are often a result of his inability to express himself even though he has ideas
• can show aggressive behavior and the intent to hurt others
• can be extremely demanding and persistent
• destructive to objects around him when frustrated and angry
• possessive about caregiver's attention; show feelings of jealousy
• has fears and nightmares
• has sense of humor; capable of laughter
• shows interest in dressing, brushing hair and teeth
• cannot sit still or play with a toy for more than a few minutes

Along with all that "fun" behavior, he is also cutting a few teeth! Can anyone say WELCOME NEW BABY?!

9 Day Giveaway!

Wanna win $999 for your Emergency Fund or to pay off debt?  Go here every day until the 17th and enter to win $999 from Dave Ramsey! 

Good luck!

Gotta Get This....

A lot of times I'll receive something in the mail and have no clue why.  I know its probably something I signed up for through a blog, but I guess it takes so long to get it to me, I've forgotten by the time I get it.  Well, the magazine Family Fun was one of those things.  I have no clue how I got it.  I don't pay for it, but I've gotten two issues so far!  I gotta tell you, I LOVE LOVE LOVE this magazine!  It has the best crafts.  The best ideas.  The best recipes.  I am totally in love with this magazine especially since its free!  I've taken my last two issues with me to the doctor's office and have read the magazine twice each time!  Thats how much I like it!  I want to read through it again JUST IN CASE I missed something!

Yesterday I saw on My Frugal Adventures(by the way, one of my new favorite blogs!!) that there is a deal to get a subscription for the magazine for $4.95 for a year!  Check the deal here!  Or to check out the magazine, go here! 


BTW, mainly for Bubba's knowledge, I was in no way paid or compensated to give this review! I just thought y'all might be interested! :) 

The Doc Appt From Heck!

Today was one of those days that you dread!  I had a feeling it was going to be a LONG day, but was promised by the doctor's office that it wouldn't be as bad as I anticipated!  HA!  Like Hubbie says, you'd think the doctor's office thought you LOVED spending your day with them!

I met Hubbie at the doctor's office this AM.  I asked him earlier in the week if he wanted me to find someone to watch the boys for my appointment today, but since we had been reassured that my appointment was going to be "quick and painless", he decided to come meet me and spend a few hours with the boys.  While I sat and sat and sat.... my men played at the park and had a nice lunch outing.  I sure did miss spending time with them!  I spent a hour just WAITING to be called back.  Once I got called back, I had to WAIT to see the doctor.  I was told I wouldn't even see the doctor- unless something was going on that she would be concerned about.  I was also told that I would be in and out in about 10 mins since I just needed to "sign out" with the Nurse Manager and to get some papers in order to take them to the hospital to do pre-op.  Well, that obviously wasn't true.  While the doctor examined me, the Nurse Manager went over the c-section information, got me to sign my life away, etc.  During the examine the doctor told me to lay low this weekend-  Very little activity since she will be out of town with her daughter.  I had to laugh, because she told me she'd be making several trips to a nearby college town and that she would return on Sunday.  HA!  As if I'm gonna plan for my baby to come on Sunday and not Saturday!  No dilation.  No thinning, but baby is in the birthing canal.  So, again, sounds like if I ever wanted to have a baby the natural way, then this was gonna be that one time!  Bummer, huh?!

After doing that lovely final exam, I had to get over to the hospital that I will be delivery at.  I got over there, signed in and looked around the waiting room for pre-op admissions.  I had never seen so many people.  Gosh golly!  I had already called Hubbie and told him that today's visit was gonna take a while.... but after seeing that long list of names before mine on the sign in sheet, I knew my day was doomed!  Did I mention by this time it was noon and I hadn't eaten lunch yet?!  So, I sat my pregnant butt down and waited and waited and waited.  Finally, my name was called and I got to go through the procedure yet again!  Ugh!  Such a boring process.  Yes.  No.  Yes.  No.  Social Security No.  Yes.  Sign.  No.  Husband.  Cell.  No.  Yes.  Oh good, we're done!  Not quite... then I got to make the trip to Day Surgery, sign in and WAIT!  Finally.... let me see, a little before 2pm (appt was at 10) I was called back.  Peed in a cup AGAIN.  Gave blood.  They took my temp, blood pressure and weight and then again, got asked A MILLION TRILLION questions!  Finally I got to see the anesthesiologist, they asked if I had any questions....  ya know?  By c-section no 3, I don't have any questions.... the only questions I have are questions they can't answer for me.  1) Will the spinal actually work this time?!  Compared to no. 1 c-section where bottle tops were flying everywhere and I felt EVERYTHING for a few seconds!  2) Can you guarantee me that this will be the easiest recovery?  3) Will there be any complications since this is no. 3 c-section?  Ha!  You get the picture?!  So, I had no questions for her.  After that, I was finally FREE!

Funniest thing that happened today was my baby boy, since he has decided to make his way down the birthing canal, that he is resting right smack dab on my bladder.  I know I've written that I feel like my water is breaking or that I have to pee every 5 mins.  Well, today was no exception.  I got at the doctor's office and since I assumed that I would be in and out, I didn't worry that I was starting to get the urge to pee.  After about 30 mins though, I couldn't take it anymore and asked to get my cup to pee in.   Once I did that, I knew I'd be okay until I was called.  Fat chance!  This child did a huge flip and landed right on my bladder.  Over and over and over again.  You'd think that he has a personal vendetta against my bladder!  People!  I just KNEW I was gonna pee on myself.  Gosh golly!  I was trying to stay calm, but I knew if I moved or coughed or sneezed, I was in trouble and gonna have to go home and change my clothes!  I was so annoyed!  I had JUST gone!  Thankfully the nurse called me back, I was able to relieve myself and they took all the vitals necessary.  Wanna hear the sad thing?  It happened AGAIN.  I went to the potty 4 times in about 2 hours time at that doctor's office.  And I probably could have gone AT LEAST twice more.....  This child had better not complain about my pottying habits after this.... I think he's permanently damaged my bladder for life!

So, maybe third time is a charm!  I've gone through this pre op procedure three times now and NEVER made it to Day Surgery!  We'll see if Baby Bean stays put for a few more days until the scheduled day!  In the mean time, I'm gonna putter around the house, get some things done and most importantly, spend some time with my men!

Last One....

Whew!  Almost there people!  Last doctor's appointment today.  After that quick appointment I will run over to the hospital and sit and wait and fill out tons of paper work for my scheduled day surgery.  I will do all my pre op for day surgery and then be done!  I've done this process twice now.... and have YET to make it to the actual day surgery appointment!  I always end up having the baby before, so we'll see if I actually made it to "D-Day".  Hubbie says no.  Mom thinks yes.  I remember asking God, early on in the pregnancy, to make this be a normal, boring pregnancy and that I would make it to my scheduled c-section, so maybe that is the plan.  We will see. 

Pregnancy aches and pains still there..... I feel like my water is breaking all the time.  Quite annoying.  I think a lot of the aches and pains that I'm having are all probably quite normal, but since I've never gone this far in a pregnancy, I don't know about all this lovely stuff.  I now have a LOT of sympathy for people that go to 40 weeks or further!  Bless you! 

I still do not have my bags packed for the hospital.  I have been quite laid back about a lot of things in this pregnancy.  The room is still not finished.... the other two boys- their rooms were done at least a month before baby's scheduled appearance!  My bags have always been packed a good month in advance.  The car seat just got put into the van on Monday- less than 2 weeks before scheduled c-section!  I guess, by number 3, even an anal and hyper momma like myself just knows that it'll all get done.  I have been QUITE anal about the house though.  Trying to get things cleaned and straightened and organized......  I wish I had more mobility and energy to pick up and move and clean.  I need a cleaning lady!  :) 

So, anyway.....  last appointment...... good to get this one over with and under way.  Once today is over I will REALLY be counting down!  Thankfully I'm keeping busy with the boys and the first MOPS mtg preparations for Tuesday and the house and clothes and ya know.... life! 

Finding Joy

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance."      James 1:2-3


Today has been one difficult day.  I went to bed expecting to get things done today and to give God my day and my "to-do" list.  Then we woke up late.  Thankfully, it doesn't take us too terribly long to get ready, but it was picture day for Bubbie, so we quickly ate breakfast, got our things together and off we went to drop off the Bubbie.  I knew that when I got home, I was going to work on MOPS stuff.  The things that I needed to do were things that I really should have done last night, but once I got home from the MOPS mtg, I was just done doing stuff for other people.  (I know that sounds horrible, but I hadn't stopped all day and everything in my day revolves around someone else.)  So, I slacked by watching 18 Kids and Coutning and eating a bowl of popcorn... the whole time thinking about the MOPS work left undone.

Once I got home, I decided to get a few things done around the house.  I put some clothes away and just piddled while Peanut played.  After a few minutes I remembered that I was going to call Wal Greens about the seasonal flu shots.  I spent probably 30 mins calling Wal Greens and our insurance co- trying to decide where to go to get our family the shots.  Anyway. I finally made the appointment and was going to get started on MOPS work and then I remembered that I had heard Peanut playing with my keys in the kitchen.  I knew I had better go find them and put them up before it was time to leave again.  I went into the kitchen and they were NO where to be found.  I got annoyed, but I knew they were someone funny.  If there is a hole, my kid thinks its begging for a key to be put in it... so again, didn't really worry.  Two hours later....  I was so ticked off.  I was worried.  I only have one van key and I couldn't go pick up Bubbie or get the flu shot... Ugh!  So I called and canceled the shot.  The keys were finally found- only after I had called Ashley asking her to pick Bubbie up and only after calling the school telling them that Ashley was going to pick up Bubbie.  So, I had to call the school and Ashley back and say "never mind" and then off we went to pick up Bubbie.

Once Bubbie was picked up, all Peanut wanted to do was waller and fuss.... so off to bed he went.  I knew he was tired and it was almost nap time.  Then I got Bubbie situated with a snack and I decided it was finally time to sit down and eat lunch.  While eating lunch I decided to watch a show I had taped last night.  I guess the show I had taped didn't come on, because something else had been taped.  Well, the show was something about multiple births on TLC, so I figured I'd watch it.  It was the absolutely sadest thing ever to watch a week before having your baby.  This couple had to make a decision to carry their 4 babies to term knowing that one of them wouldn't make it and then would result in preterm (or even more preterm than normal quads birth) labor so that they could deliver the still born baby.  It was so sad.  Gosh!  Talk about emotions and a blubbering fool!  So, I tried to compose myself and figured it was as good time as any to FINALLY start on MOPS.  I felt bad for only just getting to it, but the keys became the priority of the day!  Worked on MOPS while the kids napped.  Peanut, of course, woke up early and, again, all he wanted to do was waller.  He would screech to get up in my lap, so I'd pick him up and all he wanted to do was jump or get back down.  Over and over again.  So I asked if the boys wanted a snack... of course Peanut wanted a snack, but he only wanted fruit snacks.  He had already had fruit snacks, so he insisted on throwing a fit.  All he wants lately is fruit snacks.  He has a cold, but geesh! the yucky cold feeling should be getting better BY NOW!  Gosh golly!  Not sure how he and I survived the day.  I don't complain often about my kids on the blog... but today, Peanut was a doozy!  So, the rest of the afternoon didn't get much better.  Peanut insisted he get into everything.  If I stopped working, he'd continue to be a little rugrat.  The straw that broke the camel's back was when he decided to dump the entire trashcan of dirty cloth diapers!  I was done!  I called it a day on MOPS and just sat down, at Peanut's beck and call.  Not sure what is wrong with that child, but praying tomorrow is a better day! 

The verse above is a Scripture that we memorized growing up.  I have a feeling that it is gonna become a "favorite" verse of mine the next few months and that I'm gonna be saying it to myself A LOT.  I am going ahead and planning on a rough 6 mos to a year.  Not sure why, but I just foresee a lot of struggling.......  I even joke with Hubbie that I should go ahead and ask the doc for a Prozac prescription! The only thing I kept thinking today was that if this was a normal day in a few weeks, I'd be adding sleepless nights and a nursing newborn to this crazy day!

Ahhhhhhh...........   trying to find the joy today!

A Book Review- Fearless by Max Lucado

Buy		Read

I received an email from Thomas Nelson publishing about a month ago offering me a chance to read and review Max Lucado's newest book Fearless.  I was very excited to read something by Max Lucado.  Its been years since I had picked up one of his books and was eager to read his thoughts on being fearless.  I did feel a little pressure on this book review since it is  suppose to be posted on my blog on the 8th of September.  I just KNEW the baby would come before I was able to finish the book or the review!  Thankfully, I was able to finish the book in plenty of time. 

My initial thought on this book is that it was a good sized book and it was self "helpy".... which to me means that its gonna take me longer to read.  I am not a very fast reader....not super slow.....but when it comes to self help type books, I read even slower, but once I got into this book, it was very good.  It kept my interest and it was FULL of wonderful reminders of how much God loves us and how the Bible is packed FULL of reminders that we should not be afraid or fearful for our lives or about "what ifs".  This book came to me at a wonderful time as I sit here, day by day, waiting and dreading and being fearful of the "what ifs" while bringing a new baby into the world.  Our world is so full of unknowns and what ifs.  Will this baby be healthy?  Will the c-section recovery be worse than last time?  Will my family get the flu and my baby be harmed?  On and on..... What Max Lucado did so beautifully in this book was take the truths from the Bible and put it in a very easy reading and entertaining book that will remind us that God is bigger than any thing that we fear and face.    I told my mother today that I could go page by page, the book is full of pages that I have ear marked with my favorite thoughts or Scripture reminders, and list off my favorite parts.... that would be a boring book review, but if you'll just humor me for a second, here are a few of the things that really made an impact on me. 

In one of the first chapers, Max Lucado reminds us of a truth found in one of my favorite Bible verses found in Psalms 139:15 - you were "fearfully and wonderfully made".  Max continues- "He can't stop thinking about you!"  How awesome is that thought?  "We were His idea, his Masterpiece".  In the doctors office, I had to close the book and think about that page.....  Me, Lu, I was FEARFULLY and WONDERFULLY made... by the Master's hands?  Think about a project you do around your house....weren't you proud once you finished it?  Even with me, if there are mistakes, I am still proud that I FINISHED it.   Usually with me its something that has taken a lot of time and wasn't easy.....  I smile.  I am giddy.  I am so glad I'm done with it and can look back and say that I did it.  Maybe God was the same way.  As he took great detail on each and every one of us.  Can you imagine getting to chose the eye color and face shape and how this person was going to look as they smiled?  I bet God had a blast.  We are HIS creation and He enjoyed making us.  How can you not LOVE this person that went to great detail about us?  Doesn't that fill your heart and make you want to smile and dance and sing that you know the LOVE of that Creator?

Towards the middle of the book, Max Lucado begins to dig deep into worry and how a simple "fretful" thought becomes, in his words, a "toxic panic".  He also reminds us that "Jesus doesn't condemn legitimate concerns for responsibilities, but rather the continuous mind set that dismisses God's presence."   This is the best part- "  Destructive anxiety subtracts God from the future, faces uncertainities with no faith, tallies up the challenges of the day without entering God into the equation."  Did that hurt?  Man!  It definitely convicted me.  When I worry, I'm totally losing sight on God and His faithfulness.  Last year in BSF, we studied the life of Moses..... if you ever wanna learn about the destructiveness of worry, you gotta read those few books of the Bible..... and we learned that worrying was a SIN.  Why didn't we learn that in Sunday School growing up?  Why wasn't that a popular topic in the pulpit each Sunday morning sermon?  Worry is apart of our EVERY DAY life, right?  We worry about being late.  We worry about what we eat or what we wear or just constantly something.  Like I said earlier in the post, I worry about every little detail of every day....  Worry shouldn't be something so significant in my day.  I should bring my concerns to God and LEAVE them at His feet.

A lot of the book focused or made reference to the economic situation that we are faced with right now.  With job loss on the rise and the economic outlook being so grim, you could tell that Max Lucado was definitely trying to answer some questions and put people's fears to ease.  I love this statement in Chapter 7- "As followers of God, you and I have a huge asset.  We know everything is going to turn out all right.  Christ hasn't budged from His throne and Romans 8:28 hasn't evaporated from the Bible."  If we choose to truth our Father, then even the worst case scenario is death, right?  And we go to live with Him, right?  Hard to swallow and I don't think I'm that far in my walk with Christ to be able to say that I can do this easily.

This book was PACKED full of reminders and reassurances of why God is worthy of our trust and love.  He is faithful and Max Lucado did an absolutely fantastic job of picking stories and Scriptures to help make this book such a wonderful addition to anyone's library.  I have already offered this book to several people and hope that its an encouragement to others like it was to me.  Self help books aren't "fun" reads for me, but this one has quickly become one of my favorite books.  I think I could read it again and still be able to find other parts that stick out to me, that I missed the first go around.





And a big thanks to Thomas Nelson for allowing me to review this book!  

Labor Day and No Baby!

Well folks!  No baby yet.  I thought my water had broke last night... well..... I thought perhaps it was or was going to..... but I think the baby just officially dropped and right, smack on my bladder!  No accidents- just strange, strange things!  I followed the advise from a website and laid down for 30 mins and then checked to see if my water had broken.  No luck peeps!  I went back to bed and woke up in a dry bed.

Since Saturday afternoon I have had swollen ankles and pain in my hips and legs.  I keep trying to figure out what I did so horribly wrong on Saturday.  We took the kids to the park and I guess the walk from the car to the park and then back was TOO much for this body.  The pain in my legs is from sciatic nerve pain or piriformis pain.  I know because I've had it with every child so far.  When you're this stinkin' big, you can't exactly do the exercises to strengthen and stretch that area, so all I can do it lie down and try to get in a comfy spot.  Thankfully, I woke up Sunday feeling better.... then we got a lovely surprise!  All of my family has a nasty cold bug.  Peanut's nose is the nastiest.  Bubbie has this annoying and dry cough.  Hubbie, well, he's a husband..... he doesn't show any SIGNS of being sick, but says he feels horrible and HAS to go to bed!  God love him!!!  ;)  So, the day didn't go like I wanted it to go.  I did feel well enough to get a few meals frozen.  I made shepherd's pie "innards", spaghetti meat sauce, vegetable beef soup and chili. I am so glad I was able to get that much done.  I'm gonna try to get potato soup and chicken pot pie made before the baby makes his appearance!  I am taking is slow since, I guess, when he "dropped" or changed positions, I've had the worse back labor... so we'll see what gets done!

So, this is just me whining, on LABOR DAY of all days!  God has been good.  Several times I thought I was surely gonna have this baby.  All I wanted to do was make it to 38 weeks and I have.... 38 weeks and 3 days!  Now, if he comes, I'm fine!  Just hoping that he comes during the day and not another night time run to the hospital- like the last two!  Just pray that either all these aches and pains stop or we have a baby!  Not sure I can handle this pain and still function with two kiddos for over a week until the c-section date!

We Have A Winner!

Folks!  We have a winner!  Dana has won the giveaway for the ReliOn Touch Thermometer!

Congrats Dana!  A brand new thermometer is on its way to your home!

Thanks to all that entered and be sure to watch for more fun giveaways!

And a special thank you to MomSelect for the opportunity to host this giveaway!  

Pregnancy... Don't Read If You're Tired Of My Pregnant Self!

Since this pregnancy is almost over, I had better hurry up and "capture" the moment while I can still think straight.......

I have NEVER had so many women touch my belly.  If I love you, I don't mind you touching me, but if you're just a friend....not a true blue, love ya kind of friend, stand back!  :)  If you aren't sure WHAT you are, you'd better ask!!!!  ;) 

Its DAILY that I get a comment from a stranger and HAVE gotten comments since the beginning of July.  Shortly after we got back from the beach, I've gotten a comment EVERY.SINGLE.DAY from strangers that think its their business to tell me how incredibly big I look!  Thank you very much!

I can tell I'm towards the end of my pregnancy, because people are getting on my nerves!  BAD!  Ha!  Don't worry.... if you've gotten on my nerves, I've ranted about it with someone else and gotten over it!  'Nough said! 

I think Chick-fil-A sells crack!  Well, not loose.... in their chicken minis!  My lovely neighbor and I stopped through CFA on our way to yard sales a few months ago and she got me hooked.  OH.MY.GOODNESS.  I think there are seriously something baked into those.  I am VERY good and only get it once a week- its my "treat" for the week- on days when both boys are at school and I can sit and savor each bite! 

Oh and I think crushed ice is awesome!  I can't tell how how much I dream about drinks with crushed ice.  Heavenly! 

I'm secretly envious of anyone having their baby before me.... well..... not so secret any more.  HA!  If you're due AFTER me and have your baby BEFORE me- I dislike you immensly.  I'll forgive you once I see your adorable baby, of course, but until then.... you're on my BAD list! 

Speaking of "bad" list..... I got an EOB yesterday for my rhogam shot.  You might remember.... this is that LITTLE shot that the doc office ALMOST forgot that I MUST have in order to not "REJECT" my baby.  Blood type stuff.  I've had it with all 3, of course, since its the same Daddy.  I've only needed the second shot twice.  Anyway, I got the EOB for that yesterday.  Guess how much JUST THAT TINY LITTLE SHOT COSTS?  Not the injection.  Not the blood work.  Not the follow up.  JUST THE SHOT?  $1050.  Yup!  You read right.  Over $1000.  HA!  I about lost my lunch.... good news?!  Not really any, well, except that my body will now NOT reject my baby!  Only good news I can see is that I have now met my deductible.....  nawwwhhhhh....... still doesn't soften the blow!  

I gotta tell you, my husband, he's a rock star!  He's gonna crack up because I called him that!  We have the stupidest humor together, but it makes us laugh.  (We do- "thats what she said"- on a nightly basis while we he does the dishes!) He works hard all day, comes home, takes over the kids without complaint and does whatever household things need to get done.  Once he's done with doing all MY "woman" stuff(another one of our stupid jokes), he then goes out and trains for his 1/2 marathon coming up in less than 2 mos.  Then he crashes in bed and does the whole thing over again the next day!  I love him immensly for tolerating me and my aching pregnant body and for loving us enough to do all these things without complaint.  He is a rock star!  ;) 

This child, I know I've said it before, moves like there is no tomorrow.  In my sidebar I have a pregnancy ticker.... this weeks "statement" has been that this child will start becoming less active now that "its" getting prepared for labor.  I find this quite hilarious.  No one has told Baby Bean this news yet!  He is always twisting and turning and oh, lately, he's discovered a new "hiding spot"!  Right where my c-section scar is!  Yeah!  Pleasant sounding, huh?!  It hurts like the dickens!  I find it so sweet that if the boys have been gone and they run into room and start talking, Baby Bean immediately starts moving.  He knows his brothers!  So precious!  If Peanut "burbles" my belly, Baby Bean moves like crazy.  If Bubba rubs and pats my belly while talking to Bean, Bean moves and kicks!  I love it!  I can.not.wait to see these 3 boys grow up together!  I'm so excited to be having three boys! 

The weekend is completely free of "hafta do's".... no where to go- first weekend in FOREVER like this.  I'm so excited.  No football will not be on our tv.  Sorry.  Yes, we're lame!  I have 2 little sticky notes just starring at me with lots of "need to do's" before baby arrives.  I've got the carseat all situated- thanks to Jana's best friend- and ready to be placed in the van.  The boy's bag for Nana's have been packed.  Baby Bean's diaper bag is packed and ready to go to the hospital.  My bag?  Has not been touched.....  I guess thats the first thing I'll do!  I've been stocking up on magazines.  Its been hard not read them as they've come in the mail....but I will wait!  I know I'll want them in a week or two when I need something to distract me from life!

So, you have it.....  all my thoughts on my pregnancy thus far!  :)  The remaining to-do list consists of some cleaning, doing laundry, finishing Peanut's and Bean's room, working on the last of the sewing projects, cleaning the van, Hubbie working on the yard- again!- making some meals to freeze and I think that might be it!  :)  

If Ever In Doubt

This year has been filled with craziness.  We've been all over the place- highs and lows.  We study the "wheel of change" last week at our MOPS Steering retreat and while reading the lesson, I wanted to scream, "THIS HAS BEEN MY LIFE!"  Gosh!  I wanna get off the wheel of change!  HA!  Too many things have changed this year.  I don't like the stages of change and definitely don't like the fact that my life has about 5 different wheels going 'round and 'round right now!  God is definitely molding US.  I've felt God's molding and making before, but usually its within me- molding me!  This time He's molding more than just me- He's molding a whole family.....mainly the heads of that family- Hubbie and myself.

I rarely, if ever, question God.  A lot of things make me wonder, but I don't usually scream out and ask God why, but this year I have.  I've asked "Why?!" A LOT.  Probably a lot more than I should, but I did.  It was in my heart and I've been "burdened" with so much this year, I just wanna know- "Whatcha doing, God?!"  I wish I had answers, but I've been a Christian, and around Godly people, long enough to know, bad or difficult things do happen to people that love the Lord.  He uses them for His glory.  That fact alone scares me.  I wish my God would prevent anything bad ever happening to me and my family. 

I can remember, as a child, praying we would not die in a fire or that a bad man would not harm us.  Every night I prayed the same thing.  I was always so concerned about fire and a break in.  Once I prayed that prayer, I could go to sleep.  If I tried to fall asleep without saying it, I felt like THAT NIGHT would be the one night that something would happen.

God is so good and so very perfect.  If I ever start to question or wonder "what in the world are you doing God?" I just have to look back and read this post.  I don't read that post because we got something for free or that we won something, but because of God's provision and perfectness.  I mean, seriously, can you not believe in prayer after reading that post?  God heard my prayers.  He heard my mother's prayers.  He knew that is what our marriage needed for the rest of the crazy year.

We talk a lot about that cruise.  I think we are still in shock that we were ever able to go....maybe not shock, but like it was a distant dream.  I did have doubts about leaving my children.  I knew they'd be okay, but that was just one of the many lessons God has taught me this year...... or is TEACHING ME.  "To be still and know that I am God."  To me, the food wasn't that fantastic.  To me, the rooming wasn't superb.  To me, the best part was being away with my husband with nothing we HAD to do..... no one we HAD to take care of.  And it was all free!  The second best part was being able to worship all day long.  I don't know how many times I had to fight back tears.  Tears of thankfulness.  Tears of knowing that my God is faithful.  Tears from being in His presence ALL THE TIME. 

I know God doesn't always answer prayers like that and it kinda made me nervous to know that He did answers ours like that..... was He molding our faith for something big that would happen next?  Maybe so that we wouldn't doubt when things started to fall apart?  Not sure.  But, no matter what has happened since March, I can safely that God has carried us through it all. 

Blame It On..... the Giveaway!

So, I'm gonna blame this on the adorable little life inside of me, I forgot to put a deadline on this giveaway.  I didn't realize it until Hubbie mentioned something yesterday!  Oops!  How 'bout we end the giveaway for the ReliOn Temple Touch Thermometer  on Saturday evening?!  I'll announce the winner late Saturday night/ early Sunday morning....and I'm sure this is just ASSUMED, but if baby comes, we'll announce the winner once we're back home!

So, go enter the contest!  :)  And have a great weekend!

Baby Bean Update!

Today I did the unthinkable..... I took both boys to the doctor's office.  I know, I'm insane!  Its a long story, so I won't bother going into it, but God was gracious and answered all my pleadings.  The boys did well and it helped that the appointment was a short and early appointment.  We were in and out within a hour- a true God send if you've ever read how normally long the appointments are- 3 hrs!  Fruit snacks, books, and suckers worked like a charm!  Yes, I can admit that I bribed my kids with food and it worked quite well for the littlest one!

Baby Bean is good.  No progress.  No dropping.  Head still down.  Hoping that if he's gonna come before the scheduled c-section day, he'll go ahead and make his appearance NOW rather than a day or two before the scheduled date.  My blood pressure was THROUGH the ROOF today..... I laughed, pointed to the boys and said, "No way?!"  The doctor even said that she wasn't surprised.   

After the quick and painless doctor's appointment, we went to the park connected to the doctor's office and a hospital.  The boys had a blast and we played there for the rest of the morning.  The weather here has been absolutely gorgeous... breezy, low temperatures, low humidity..... just Heavenly.  I can actually tolerate being outside with the boys.  For the last month or two, unless we're at the pool, I have only gone outside out of necessity!

Speaking of Heaven, today as we passed a Jewish synagogue, Bubbie said, "Momma, that building isn't Heaven."  I said, "No, you're right."  Bubbie continued, "Cause Heaven is up in the sky, far, far away, right?"  I agreed and laughingly said, "Yes, Heaven is a little prettier than that building!"  Bubbie finished the conversation by saying, "Yeah, God has decorated Heaven with decorations!"

Where in the heck is he coming up with this stuff?!  

A few days ago, also in the car, he told me that you go to Heaven once you're old and nasty- like around 100 yrs old, because that is what Nana said!!!!

I'll be 38 weeks tomorrow and feeling quite emotional and ready to not be pregnant any more.  I have been so extremely sore and its very difficult to move or stand for long periods of time.  I cannot WAIT to be able to move "freely" and to not ache and moan while trying to get up and down!  I think I've pretty much decided against bending down and usually try to get someone else to do it!!!!  In the same way that I'm ready to NOT be pregnant any longer, I'm also not quite ready for the changes that a newborn brings. I dread another c-section and the recovery.  I dread the adjustment period.  Mama Mia!  Not ready!!!  Wish I could go back and start the pregnancy all over again- in that sense, but I know God is gracious and just gotta take a day at a time!  I know I can do it, but just dreading it all......  

Cool Beans! A Giveaway!

On Friday I received a ReliOn Temple Touch Thermometer to review and one to giveaway from MomSelect.  I was very eager to test this little thermometer out.  I had registered for one similar to this while doing my baby registry for Baby Bean.  I was thrilled to get it at my baby shower!  So, when I knew I could review this nifty one, that is very similar to our new one, I wanted to compare!  

I definitely like the size of this one and it seems a little quicker to use.  Our newer "touch" thermometer is suppose to be used on the forehead, whereas this one is to be used on your temple.  I noticed that when doing the comparison with Peanut, he was still for the temple one longer than our newer thermometer, the one that you place on the forehead. 

Also, the one we registered for was almost $30.  The ReliOn Temple Touch Thermometer is selling for under $10!   Can't beat a cheaper price!


I would definitely recommend this thermometer to anyone.  I wish I had always had this thermometer and it will definitely come in handy with a newborn! 

So far, no issues......  Well.... we did have ONE issue!  Nothing to do with the product!  When we received these in the mail, I quickly opened my review thermometer and tested it out on the boys.  Then, when Hubbie got home, he opened the OTHER one that I was given to giveaway on the blog to "test it out"!  ARGH!  I cannot tell you how frustrated I was.  I fussed!  I fumed!  I was so upset!  Then I quickly sent an email to MomSelect and explained the situation.  They were so kind and forgiving (!) and are still allowing me to do the giveaway!  The representative for giveaways told me to keep BOTH theremometers and they would send out a brand new one to the winner of this giveaway!

So if you'd like to win, simply comment.  For an extra entry, follow me or twitter about the giveaway.  If you do the extra entries, be sure to come back and comment telling me that what you did and post the link.