Baby, Pregnancy, 31 Weeks

Today was baby appt day!!!  The little one loves these days because she gets to hear the baby's heartbeat.  It was so cute, when waiting for the Dr. to come in, she stepped up on the ledge thing for the table I was sitting on and  hugged the belly and told Avalynn to not be scared the Dr. was just going to check her out.  I mean really - love her!!! 

 

All looks good.  Still measuring 2 weeks ahead with fundal height.  And I did ask about having sharp pains and he asked if I felt like everything was going to fall out and when I agreed he said it's completely normal.  I do not remember it this early with the little one, but then again perhaps this is why there's that saying, "everything happens faster the 2nd time around." 

 

Next Monday the 7th we have a growth ultrasound scheduled.  And then I only have 6 more appts left, 2 more bi-weekly's and then the 4 weekly's.  Eeeks - it's going so fast and we have nothing done in her room yet.  The even more sad part is that almost every weekend from now until D-day is packed.  But I'm trying to still not stress, I know it will get done, just feeling some mommy guilt perhaps.  

 

Pregnancy Review:

How far along: 31 weeks.

Total weight gain/loss: 15 lbs - eeks, had my appt today and it was not a good gain, I've been a little crazy with the desserts & chocolates this past month, the funny thing is I normally can make them but hardly ever eat them, guess that's pregnancy for you.

Maternity clothes?: Definitely.

Strech marks?: No new ones.

Sleep: Getting more uncomfortable and now in the wide awake for random hours during the night.  Bleah.

Best moment this week: Hearing her beautiful heartbeat @ today's appt.

 

Movement: OOO - yes!

 

Food cravings: Sweets, Corn Dogs, Pasta's and Breads oh-my!

Gender: 110% GIRL

 

What I miss: to sleep like the dead, no sharp pains.  

Labor Signs: Not really - just some Braxton Hicks if I do too much.

Belly Button in or out? Still in, but it's getting flatter as it's being pushed out.

What I am looking forward to: finally meeting her and holding her in my arms.  It's not just the length of this preg. I've been waiting, since my first miscarriage after having the little one, so this is 2+ years and I'm so ready for her to be here.

Weekly Wisdom: That with less than 2 months left, we should really start her nursery!  I mean really - how can I say I'm so excited and then not have anything ready yet.  My only excuse is that I can't very well do it myself and with the Hubs working his 7 day weeks it's been pushed to the side. 

 

Milestones: Getting through everyday at this point.  I'm ready to be considered fullterm and to have her! 

 

Here's some pictures from today. 

 

 

And I'd also like to say thank you to everyone for the sweet comments on our name choice.  I'm still having to defend it to some family members - but am standing firm as this is what I already consider her to be and it feels like a good fit. 

Well, we made it out alive...

The final day of the Hubs 4 day long weekend and we are re-cooperating.  We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with both sides of the family.  Turns out we were able to see New Moon (it was up in the air because of the showing times) I won't gush too much, but O-EM-GEEEE compared to Twilight movie!!! 

Then Black Friday, aka BF, morning came upon us.  Unfortunately, it now seems I'm entering the wide awake at random hours in the middle of the night phase of the pregnancy.  Oh JOY - not really, since 2:55am rolled around and I just laid there until the 4am alarm clock went off to wake up Hubs.  I'm no newbie to BF shopping.  I consider myself entering into the veteran stages.  Done the complete all-nighters going to the midnight openings before and shopping through the day no problem.  But this year - I made a tragic mistake in the route I had planned for the Hubs and me to hit that morning.  Here is what I've learned:

• Never, EVER go to Walmart 1st thing!  Really, no matter what kind of deals you think you're getting, they are not worth that headache.  BUT, if you do decide to enter that mayhem remember this
  
• You do not need a cart.  I'm telling you, you really don't.  Especially if you are going to a highly traffic area, for example - toys or electronics. 
• Make a plan of attack with your shopping partner.  You have those top items on your list, split them up and take a deep breath before heading into the Jungle.  Make sure your wearing ears and eyes are open to everything, because it can get nasty in there.
  
• Do a quick scan of the shelves when looking for what you want (because really - you want to get out of that area asap) and make sure to check end caps and other random places for the really good priced deals, because that's where they will be.  Or just look for the people leaping over one another or throwing punches (yes I witnessed this on Friday).
  
• Once you are able to meet up with your partner and navigate your way through the crush of carts and people that just seem to be standing still, see they really didn't need that cart to push just one measly item in it!  Send him to the checkout area, while you grab a couple last minute items in other non crazy areas of the store, this way they can scout which lines are moving faster/less people etc.  By the time you finish grabbing stuff that's on your list, there's only 2 people ahead of you in the check out - sweet!
• As your rush out of that 1st place, you are pleased to see your doing great on time/schedule and will be able to make the next store opening with a few minutes to spare.  
• There's really no need to stand in line, unless of course you get a free gift card for the first "x" amount of people.  Couple minutes before opening time, walk to the end of the line and then you should be in and through the door within a minute - I'm telling you people, the lines move fast!  
• Continue on your route, plan and attack each store with your partner and you'll be done in no time at all.  

Perhaps it was because the 1st place we went to was so HORRIBLE but the rest of the stores seemed like cake compared to Walmart.   Hubs and me agreed - never ever again (oh yes, I'm saying the never word) will we go to an opening for Walmart on BF, not worth it at all. 

And in the end we are 3/4's of the way finished with our list.  I was pleased with the prices we got on all of our purchases, we're well within the budget I set and will still be once we finish up the last few people we need to buy for.  That feels even better!

I'm working through all of the new followers and comments I've gotten this week, should be caught up and back on track in the next day or two.  Hope everyone enjoys the end of their weekends!

Happy Thanksgiving

Ahhh - the day is finally here!!! I just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving, hope you are spending it with your loved ones and taking a moment to think about your thankful things today and enjoying all of the yummy food that will be prepared today. 


Thankful Tidbits

#24 - my family putting up with my crazy pregnant moods lately and understanding everything.

#25 - That my family, our extended families & friends are all healthy and we get another year to celebrate.  It's been a rough year between my Dad's accident in March (falling 20 feet from a tree and being in the ICU for 2 months), Gramma's cancer back and her treatments, plus with the Hubs and me still having 4 sets of grandparents alive, I cherish these years even more, because I'm afraid of how many more we only have with them.

#26 - Even though I'm up much earlier than I'd like, I'm thankful for the Hubs being in bed with me this morning instead of already off to work by 5am.  And little one is still sleeping, normally she'd be hoping into bed with me about this time.



To whoever will be out with the crazies (like me and the Hubs) tomorrow between 4-5am, I hope you find the deals you want and get what you want too, even if you have to fight for it!  Lols.  :: shudders ::  We're actually going to attempt WalMart this year, I'm picturing a stampede. 

I have much blog catching up to do & promise to return the comment love and follower's etc later this week after the crazy-ness of the next 3 days. 

Friend Makin Monday

Amber is hosting this and decided to participate this week, since Thanksgiving is my 2nd favorite holiday.  If you want to join in, go click on the link and join up for the party.  Here's her questions for the week:

1. Turkey or Ham?
- Definitely Turkey!!!
2. Favorite side dish.
- My Nanny's candied sweet potatoes...can't wait for leftovers of those too!
3. Favorite dessert.
- Pumpkin Pie with some extra creamy whipped topping.
4. Black Friday: Are you going or not?
- Yes, Hubs and me will be one of those crazies out there shopping.
5. If so, what's on the top of your list?
- Tag Reader (in purple) for the little one. 
6. Going out of town or staying close to home?
- Close to home, all family is local, but will be splitting the day between my family & the hubs family.
7. Hosting or helping?
- Will help out when arrive with setting things out and clean up, but not making anything to bring along.
8. Name one family tradition at Thanksgiving.
- We go around the table and say something we are thankful for.
9. What do you do after dinner?
- We leave one place from lunch and head to the other place for dinner, this year though Little One is sleeping over at my parents, so we might see New Moon.
10. What are you most thankful for this year?
- To have a healthy family & pregnancy, for Hubs having a job, our bills are paid, food on the table, and our extended family for being there for anything and everything we might need. 






Thankful Tidbits


#23 - For Avalynn making her presence known, now instead of the just the jabs, she's starting to move around and stick her body out more, Hubs think it's the weirdest thing to see, as it looks like there's an alien moving around from the outside. And today it's felt like continuous somersaults.  

Christmas Bug - is biting a little early this year.

This is my absolute favorite holiday of all time.  I normally am patient enough to wait until after Thanksgiving/Black Friday before decorating/baking/listening to Christmas music.  That Saturday I always have the Hubs drag up all of the decor and spend the weekend decorating.  And we never start the shopping until Black Friday (where we get 90%) of it all bought for everyone on our list.  But this year, I just can't seem to help myself, perhaps it's because I've been out running around more than normal that I'm seeing all of the decorations and stores ready for the holidays. 

Yesterday little one and me packed away all of the fall decor/everyday decor and really cleaned.  This morning I started bringing up a few items from the basement and setting them out.  I feel a little bad, like I'm cheating on Thanksgiving because really, to be honest -  Thanksgiving is my favorite eating holiday of the year.  I just can't seem to help myself this year.  I'm thinking perhaps it's also having something to do with the little one, she's old enough to really start getting Christmas & Santa.  Speaking of Santa, in case you haven't heard all Macy's locations are have a Santa Letter drop-off box & the bonus, every letter they receive they will donate $1 to the Make-a-Wish foundation up to $1 Million.  How awesome is this?  Little one and me will be writing her letter next week and dropping it off the following week, hopefully to run into less traffic and shoppers. 

This past weekend the Hubs and me started our shopping too, only a little earlier than normal.  Waiting for the majority of it this Friday but since it was just the two of us, decided to get a jump start on a few things.  Plus decided to order our online items this week, to ensure they will arrive on time, items that I can't find in our local stores.  I want to share this amazing on-line company called CSN Stores that approached me to review one of their products.  I'm so excited to share it with you in the next couple weeks, the cost is great and an excellent idea for anyone on your list!  Do you need some Christmas Decorations for the inside or outside?  Really, go take the time and check this company out.  They have a big selection, great prices and many of their items have guaranteed delivery by Dec. 24th. 


Thankful Tidbits

#19 - the Hubs made it through the 1st round of layoffs on his job.

#20 - For the wonderful cuddly day I had with little one.

#21 - Date night with the hubs, long long overdue, dinner and some shopping.  Little one stayed the night with the in-laws.

#22 - Seeing the joy in little one's face when I met her for lunch today and to take her home with me. 

Great-Gramma's Never Fail Pie Crust

Yesterday, little one and me went over to Gramma's to make some pumpkin rolls & try out Great-Gramma's Pie Crust. I normally just buy the frozen or refrigerated pie crusts but this year I wanted to make my own and Gramma shared her mom's recipe with me.  So simple and fantastic that wanted to share.  Really - I expected this elaborate process, but in 5 mins the dough was made, couple mins of rolling and we were done!

"Never Fail Pie Crusts"
- Sift together 3 cups of flour, 1 tsp of salt and 1 cup of shortening.

Next:
- 1 well beaten egg, 5 tbsp of cold water, 1 tbsp of vinegar.

We then divided the dough into 3rd's.  Rolled out the 2 pie crusts for some pumpkin pie.

To take easily off the mat/table, we slid a spatula underneath it, folded it loosely in half and then picked it up into the pie plate.  Pinch up the excess dough, if any hanging over the edge just swipe that off.

We had some left over dough and decided to make some sweet rolls.  Roll out the dough, spread butter, we added some homemade apple butter, and then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.  Roll it up and then slice it into pieces.  Place in a buttered/cooking spray dish @350 bake until tops are golden. 15-20 mins.

I love going over to Gramma's during November and December for pumpkin roll making and cookie baking.  And I'm glad that she shared this recipe so I can continue making it and pass down to our girls some day.

Do you have any traditions/memories with loved ones during the holiday season?



Thankful Tidbit 

#18 - To still have my Gramma around.  She just finished her 2nd bout of chemo & radiation (last month) in the past 3 years and as we get older, I'm more appreciative of the wonderful memories with her and each holiday we still get to spend with her.

Thankful Tidbits

I've gotten a little behind on these, now to catch up.

#11 - For having great & supportive friends in real life and on-line.

#12 - For mom's who look out for the other kids in play areas when some of the kids are unsupervised.

#13 - For a clean house.

#14 - For my mother-in-law tagging with me to the wedding to help me out with the little one, since Hubby had to work.

#15 - Making our professional picture appt and getting the date I wanted, last year I waited too long and we couldn't get them done.

#16 - Dove Peppermint Bark chocolates - they hit the spot yesterday after the day I had with little one.

#17 - Little one is taking a nap.  MUCH needed after the busy 4 days we've had, plus no naps, which has made a cranky little princess.


I aslo wanted to share about Free 100 Photo's from Snapfish that I've seen a few people blog about and post about in my mom group.  Is good TODAY ONLY until Midnight, with $5 purchase, enter code: FREE5 for 100 Free 4x6 prints! 

Wedding, Flower Girl and Princes...

Where oh where has the time gone? My baby girl was in her 1st wedding this past Saturday as the flower girl. She did great at her job. Loved being dressed as a "princess" and walking down the aisle with her "prince". Although she has this funny notion in her head lately that she needs to get married! I tell you, I'm not ready for that. I tell her not until she's as old as mommy. But she sometimes forgets, like the morning of she told me that Jamie was getting married and then she was going to get married. I politely reminded her, that her only job that day was to be the flower girl.  Here she is the night of the rehearsal looking so excited and happy.  Would like to say CONGRATULATIONS Mr. & Mrs. Nace, I hope your having a lovely time on your honeymoon!!!


One thing I love about weddings, and I've had my fair share over the past 2 years, with attending 8 of them, is listening to the vows again.  It's always a nice reminder for me anyways and feeling the renewed love towards the Hubs.  When your in that moment on your wedding day, everything sort-of becomes a blur, your worried about tripping up over the words etc.  But as a guest we get to really take in the meaning of those words.  In my one mom group the topic came up over the weekend about still having that "new love" feeling with our hubby's.  I know I still get that little drop in my stomach sometimes.  I asked the Hubs last night on the way home if he still did at all, curious to his answer and was pleasantly pleased when he said he did. 

Do you still get those little tingly's, pitt in your stomach, buttterflies, little moments with your significant other?  Has he done anything lately for you to have that fall in love all over again moment lately?

Share Your TTC/Fertility/Secondary Infertility Story Blog Carnival

Melissa over @ Simply Mel, posted on theBlogFrog discussion forum about wanting to do a Blog Carnival relating to people's trying to concieve, aka TTC,/Fertility/Secondary Infertility stories.  It's something not nearly talked about enough and yet so many of us go through it.  I know personally, dealing with 4 miscarriages at the time I feel all alone.  As I do not have anyone in my "IRL, in real life" circle who has gone through it, and it's much harder for someone who hasn't gone through it to really understand what you are going through and even though they mean well with some of the things they say, usually they are just hurtful.

My journey started in March 2005.  I was in college and using the pill as our birth control method.  Came home for Spring Break, went to the Dr's for a normal check-up and here I was a week late.  Yep, I was pregnant.  At the time, my high school boyfriend (now Husband) and me were beyond scared!  We had just turned 20.  This wasn't how it was supposed to happen!  I hadn't planned on returning the following year, I wasn't liking school.  So the week I returned I withdrew from all of my classes, packed up, moved back home and found a job.  Hubs proposed to me the night I moved back home.  We planned for a July wedding, wanting to get on his work benefits etc.  And we had been together 4+ years at this point, we had always planned on marrying, perhaps just not in such haste.  And then it happened.  I was almost 12 weeks along and I started to miscarry.  There were 2 horrible things I had to go through with that pregnancy:

1. Going into the dr's and seeing my baby with no heartbeat when I had just see his/her heartbeat a couple weeks prior at a regular check-up. 
2. Was getting ready to leave for work and all of a sudden the miscarriage started happening.  It was the worse 2 hours of my life, to this day, will not go into details but I do not ever wish that on anyone. 

After that I spiraled down the long dark tunnel of depression.  Even planning my wedding my mom took over the reins.  I just could not get myself out of this funk.  Not until the baby's due date of Nov. 15th passed did I finally start to come out of the fog. 

Even though that pregnancy/baby wasn't planned for, it had put the need in me to want a baby.  That's all I thought about & longed for.  We didn't have to wait long before we found out Superbowl weekend 2006 that we were in deed expecting again.  I didn't broadcast it like I did previously, and was very nervous through the whole 1st trimester.  We were blessed with our beautiful daughter Emma Rose 9.30.06. 

Mid September 2007, I wasn't feeling right so took a test and surprise, we were pregnant.  We were thrilled.  But 2 weeks later right before my daughter's 1st bday party, I ended up miscarrying.  I didn't let that miscarriage really hit me through all of that, I had too much other stuff going on that I never actually grieved fully for the loss of that baby as I should have at that time.  That baby's due date was May 23rd. 

The following spring/summer in 2008 had two more miscarriages almost back to back.  The first one's due date would have been December 29th and the second's due date would have been March 17th.  That is when it happened the fall of 2008, I fell into a very bad place I'd never gone before.  Even having my daughter was not filling this void that I felt.  How could I have conceived and carried her no problems and now 3 miscarriages after her birth I seem to have no problem getting pregnant but I can't keep the babies growing inside of me.  I felt like a failure as a woman.  It finally got to the point where I seeked out medical intervention with an anti-depressant pill.  It was like I was in the grieving stages and could not move forward.  I wasn't able to work through what I needed to.  Finally, after several tries I found one that worked for me and life started looking better.

I got to the point in my life where I was ok with Emma being our only child.  Really 5 pregnancies is hard on a body in as little as 4 years.  What health issues will arise if I continue on this path and hurting myself and my body.  Hubby and me were in aggreance.

But as it would happen, God has other plans.  Memorial Weekend this year, 2009, I had a positive pregnancy test, again we were not TTC.  We told no one, not even our mom's for the 1st few weeks.  I decided to be pro-active and demand my Dr see me immediately to check-up on things.  My levels were great.  The 1st ultrasound though alls we saw was a sac.  My heart sank at first but I continued to stay positive and hope that my dates were off, came back the following week and there was my little fighter, her beautiful heart fluttering away.  I went on progesterone supplements as a pre-caution and just took it easy that 1st trimester.  Every couple weeks went back for ultrasounds and she kept on growing right on track.  We had one scare of spotting during that 1st trimester but as it turned out, I was finally one of those women who spotted and nothing be wrong, unlike the previous 4 times, where I saw that spotting and the pregnancies would end in miscarriage. 

Beyond thrilled to say that I'm 28 +1 weeks pregnant.  We are expecting our beautiful baby girl, Avalynn Grace, Feb. 2, 2010.  I really want a 3rd baby, most of our families think we should just stop based on our past.  I'm leaving it in god's hands because only he knows what is right is for us and what we can handle. 

For my birthday this year I went for my 1st tattoo.  I wanted something to remember my angel babies by and got this set of angel wings. The 4 tiny loops, 2 on each side represent each baby to me.  It's on the inside of my right ankle and it now puts a smile on my face every time I see it because these babies will never be forgotten.

3rd Trimester

How far along: 28 weeks.

Total weight gain/loss: 10 lbs

Maternity clothes?: Everyday, there's no getting around it.

Strech marks?: No new ones.

Sleep: is so uncomfortable.  

Best moment this week: Being in the 3rd trimester now!

 

Movement: Several times throughout the day, they are just now starting to really move the belly.  And she loves to really get active when trying to go to sleep.

 

Food cravings: CORN DOGS!  That's all I want...

Gender: 110% GIRL

 

What I miss: being able to get right up from bed, instead of it taking me 3 minutes. Sleeping soundly through the night.  Walking normally.

 

Milestones: Having less than 12 weeks, you know I feel like the 1st trimester dragged, the 2nd has flown by, and I know the 3rd is going to go even faster with the holidays/birthdays we have going on.  

 

 

Thankful Tidbits

 

#10 - My gramma.  She always knows exactly what I need without me even saying it.  Emma and me had a great visit with her today.  And are looking forward to some holiday baking with her in the very near future.   

 

 

Tomorrow I'll be linking up to Melissa's @ Simply Mel "Share your TTC Story" Carnival. Make sure to check it out!!! 

Perfect shadows align behind us...

The two winners for the Yoplait Give-a-way, picked by Emma out of a hat are...

Pineapple Princess @ The Love Shack 

& 

SaraLou @ The Harriger Family WEB Blog.

Congrats Ladies! I just need you to email me your addresses so I can forward them on to the sponsor.  Thank you to everyone who participated.

Thankful Tidbits

#7 - For Hubs OT pay, which is now enabling us to get caught up and pay things off.  The layoff over the summer really hurt us.  And it feels good to not have that money burden so heavy on our shoulders. 

#8 - For Emma making me laugh throughout the day. As challenging as these 3's are turning out to be, she can definitely have me cracking up at the drop of a hat.  Just like her Daddy, there's not staying mad around those two.

#9 -   The beautiful weather we've had the past 4 days.  It's been in the high 60's and we've actually been able to go outside and play and burn off some energy without our fingers freezing within the first 15 minutes or play time.

Another weekend past and starting the new week. It was a pretty low-key weekend for Emma and me with Hubby working.

Although, last week when watching one of her channels for the life of me I can't remember which one & haven't seen it on again they did some turkey hand cookies. We rolled out the sugar dough. Cut around her hand imprint, but the worse part was getting them from the table to the cookie sheet. After they cooled off Hubby and her decorated them. For the 1st time they didn't turn out too bad.

The BUG has hit again....

When in my frenzy to unpack last month, one of the main things I couldn't wait to do was unpack the basement, but most importantly my craft area.  Once it was all done I just let a big sigh out, it felt like home again.  For months it all had been packed and I was itching badly to do something creative.

Mom plans on throwing me a "Sprinkle Shower" and I found great wording for an invite so decided to try out making a card.  I pulled out the Cricut and my Graphically Speaking cartridge, I have to say this is the most amazing cartridge I think they've ever come out with for the Bug.  It felt so good looking through my paper stash, hearing the Bug "chirp, chirp" away as it was cutting.  This is just the example one I did based off of the helpful book in the cartridge box, I'm thinking different background pattern and perhaps colors.  But so happy with how it turned out and love delicate details in the lace frame and stroller.

Now as we are entering into the holidays during my blog hopping, I'm seeing tons of great gift ideas to make for family and friends.  Edie over @ lifeingrace is having a 12 days of {handmade} Christmas Party, Nov 1st-12th.  Really if you love making gifts for loved ones or heck just making things you need to go check out some of the amazing tutorials these ladies are showing.  Drooling over here and can't wait to pick up some supplies to try some of these out!

Thankful Tidbits
#5 - I'm thankful for my mom.  She's one of my best friends.  A little on the quirky side.  Always has great advice, even though I might not take it all.  Love that we have weekly dinners.  She comes up with festive holiday crafts for her and Emma to do.  She's there to lend help, even when I'm too stubborn to ask for it, she gives it anyways just knowing that it is needed.

#6 - That my regular prenatal check-up went well today.  Nothing horrible or fantastic to report.   Baby Avalynn seems to be on the right track.  And we get a surprise ultrasound for December 7th to check-up on her.  One more month before I get to see her again and then the final 1+ months to see her out in the world.  Am so ready for that day!

Reminder - Click here to enter in Yoplait Giveaway.  Ends Sunday, Nov 8th @ 7pm Est.

Yoplait Review - Giveaway

Thanks to MyBlogSpark I was offered the opportunity to try out Yoplait Kids Yogurt and we got a More Fun prize pack with it.  Little one and me headed to the store and I let her pick out which one she wanted.  They have a variety of flavors between their yogurt drinks & yogurt such as, strawberry-banana, vanilla, peach, mixed berry etc.  She picked the strawberry-banana/peach combo pack.  We came home and she had that for her snack.  We both tried it and both thought they were really yummy!  

Here's some info from the company.  Yoplait Kids yogurt is the perfect solution with 25% less sugar than the leading kids' yogurt.  With its thick and creamy texture that will hug your little one's spoon, you won't have to worry about a sticky mess to clean up afterwards.  It also contains no artificial sweeteners or flavors, so you can feel good about serving it to your kids. 

In addition, Yoplait Kids is a good source of vitamin D and, according to two new studies that provide the first national assessment of the crucial nutrient in young Americans, millions of U.S. children have disturbingly low vitamin D levels, possibly increasing their risk for a variety of health concerns, including bone problems. About 7.6 million children, adolescents, and young adults have vitamin D levels so low they could be considered deficient. It can be challenging for growing kids to get enough vitamin D because this nutrient is only found naturally in very few foods; however Yoplait Kids makes it a little easier to incorporate a delicious source of vitamin D and calcium in your child’s diet. 

I get to giveaway 2 prize packs to my readers.  You'll recieve a coupon for a Yoplait Kids yogurt, a travel cooler (to take your yogurt on-the-go), a fun spoon that changes colors in warm water, a reusable place mat with games to keep the kids happy while snacking, and a fuzzy tangle  puzzle for some after-snack fun.

To ENTER for your chance to win - leave a comment about how you make snack time fun for your kids or some of your favorite snacks when you were a kid.  If you don't have a blog, please leave your email address so I can contact you if you are a winner.   


The winner will be chosen Sunday, November 8th, @ 7pm eastern time.

Halloween Festivites

Last Thursday little one and me went to the grocery store to pick up a couple pumpkins.  Call me crazy - but I just couldn't believe they were completely out of bigger sized pumpkins.  Alls they had were about 5 small/medium sized ones and then a bunch of the small sized ones for pie making (at least that's what the sticker on them said).  A while ago I picked up these Mr. Pumpkin Head pieces, that's what I call them.  We grouped them all together and then she'd pick out what set of eyes, nose, mouth, ears etc she wanted.  It was fun and something we can re-use!  Here's the combo that she came up with.  They are just too cute!

Later that night was our TorT night.  Feels like the rest of the country had it on actual Halloween, but anyways.  Hubby came home and quickly changed and we took our beautiful Snow White princess around a block or two.  I think my favorite costume was some little boys dressed in elephant costumes.  What were some of your favorites that you saw?

She got quite the haul of candy and goodies and suprisingly I think she's forgotten about it because she hasn't asked for any the past couple days.

Just a REMINDER - Yoplait Giveaway is set for tomorrow.  Make sure to check back and enter for your chance to win!

Thankful Tidbit

#4 - I'm thankful for my sisters boyfriend coming over this morning to mow our yard and do the trimming, especially since our yard is such a pain with 3 tiers and you have to use ramps to move the mower from one to the next.  It's been needed done, but b/c the Hubs doesn't get home until dark there was no way it was going to be getting done by him.  

Finally - Have a computer again.

So - I've been without a working computer for almost 2 weeks!  Had to take the desktop to Geek Squad because it decided to be wonky after a power outage and wouldn't load the start-up screen.  I was able to use our lovely tempermental laptop, mostly for emails though, so it could have been a stronger computer withdraw, then what I went through.

Hubby started his OT schedule last Monday.  Didn't realize how lonely it would be with him working everyday.  He comes home, we eat dinner, get about 30 mins time with Emma and then he crashes.  Counting down to Thanksgiving since that will be his first day off.

Speaking of Hubby's OT schedule - Miss Emma decided to really push her limits last week.  Whew - I do NOT know what happened to my sweet little girl.  Thankfully, MIL & FIL offered to take her overnight Friday and most of Saturday.  It was a much needed and grateful mental break for me!  I'm glad to say she seems to be back to her normal self the past 3 days.  She had a blast Trick-or-Treating.  Will post pics later this week.

Today I've reached a milestone.  I'm officially in the 3rd Trimester!!!  It feels like it's taken forever and flown by all at the same time.  I'm just beyond glad that I can actually say I'm in the 3rd trimester after previous losses, it's such a great feeling! 

Also - This THURSDAY will be having a Yoplait Review & Giveaway!  More details Thursday!

And since we are in November I wanted to do a little thing of what I'm thankful everyday until Thanksgiving.  I saw through my blogroll that Amanda @ Serenity Now is having a Thankful Party.  Go check it out if you want to participate.

Since I'm a little late am going to do my first 3 things here.

#1 - I'm thankful for Hubby having a job.  Construction work through the union has been non-existant it seems lately.  He was laid off for a little over 4 months this past spring/summer.  This has been the longest layoff we've seen.  And I'm beyond thankful that he is working at the job he has now and for the steady income.

#2 - That Emma has stayed in her room for "quiet/nap time" the past two days, working on the 3rd right now, and has actually taken a nap.  Which she didn't at all last week.  And that she is listening to me this week.

#3 - Gramma has finished her chemo & radiation treatments. She had her bloodwork checked and met with her Dr. this past Friday.  The Dr. said everything looks good and she has high hopes that the treatments worked.  We won't find out to what degree until January, Gramma doesn't wants to enjoy the holidays, and if it's bad news then that would put a damper on things.

Fall is in the air & Finally my house too!

What can I say something about the oranges, reds and browns of fall just suck me into it's comfy-ness.  Love finding new things at the end of the season and it's a surprise when I go to open up the box of decor the following year. 

The DIY Show Off is having a Fall Festival - click on the button below to check out other great blogs!

Here's how I've added some fall touches around our home.

Half of these are new this year and I love how it all came together.  But my favorite item so far is the black lantern peice.  My mom got it at a yard sale for $.50 (Can we say a STEAL!!!), so I cleaned her up and used some old silk flowers and pinecones I actually bought for my christmas garland this year and a couple tiny pumpkins.  I love all of the oranges, bronze, & yellows. 

Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Day

It's always amazing to me how quickly October 15th seems to come upon me.  I have had 4 miscarriages, all in different times of the 1st trimester.  I always say no one knows what you're going through unless they've been there through it to, but sometimes you get those people that you don't really know who can really say some of the dumbest things that just hurt you and make you mad.  I always tell people who ask for advice when someone they know has lost a pregnancy or baby is to just be there and listen if the person wants to talk.  Do not say those classic phrases "It was meant to be", "At least you have xxx, this child already", drawing a blank on others.

In 1988, Ronald Regan stated that October would be Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month.  On October 15th, everyone is invited to light a candle @ 7pm for a personal loss or that of a friends, for an hours time.  The idea is that with the varying timezones there will be a continuous light across the United States/World.  This day has spread to Canada and across the World.

For more information check out www.october15th.com or http://pregnancyloss.info/

I will always remember you my 4 angel babies! In part of my healing process, I got the angel wings tattoo, which you can see on my right sidebar.  I feel like a part of each of them is with me all the time now after getting this. 

There is this beauitful song by Gerrit Hofsink called "Still".  Here are the lyrics: 

I've been waiting for you for such a long time
You're always on my mind
And I'm laying awake most of the night
Waiting to hold you tight
Now that I do, and look at you
MY heart is breaking, this can't be true

Lost you before I found you
Gone before you came
But I love you just the same
Missed you before I met you
On Earth we never can, but in heaven we'll meet again

Close to my soul, close to my heart
Right from the start
Lost in time, lost in space
Can't wait to see your face

Now that I do, and look at you
MY heart is breaking, this can't be true

Lost you before I found you
Gone before you came
But I love you just the same
Missed you before I met you
On Earth we never can, but in heaven we'll meet again

Sometimes I find myself wondering what to do
With this pain that I'm going through
But I know one day, God will take me away
And I'm coming home to you

And when I do, and look at you
My heart is healing, I know it's true

Lost you before I found you
Gone before you came
But I love you just the same
Missed you before I met you
On Earth we never can, but in heaven we'll meet again
In heaven we'll meet again

*New* house gone bad...but not SAD!

Whew - what a very draining week this has turned out to be!  Between house drama, sister drama, and gramma drama - I'm beyond ready for next week to start!

So, Monday night after the Hubs called his Uncle to clarify something & his Uncle flipped out on us, we decided to back out of the deal.  We don't need things to keep changing and really do not want to do business with someone who reacts the way he did.  Especially Tuesday, very nasty messages on our machine and the in-laws, plus stopping at the family members houses and just going off screaming and hollering.  Really it was NUTS!!!

I was more than happy to call our crappy realtor and tell her we were taking our house off the market. Felt so good to pull that For Sale sign out of our yard!  I really do love our home, we were just moving as it was a great opportunity with a bigger house for a great price. 

So, needless to say, I dug right into unpacking our stuff, I can say finally that the 1st floor is completely cleaned, unpacked, re-organized, and decorated.  And it feels GOOD not to be living with boxes all over my house.  Although it's definitely taken me 3 x's as long as I need to take several breaks throughout, especially when moving the extra boxes to the basement or 2nd floor.  But I can say it's all done as of about 2 hours ago. 

Next weeks agenda entails tackling the 2nd floor.  Switching little one's baby furniture for her big girl furniture, emptying out the spare room for the baby's furniture, and packing away spring/summer clothes for the Hubs and me, as we've been using the spare room as our extra clothing space. 

Later next week I'll be having a review & giveaway so make sure to check back.  And will also be posting some pictures of the fall decor we have going on here.  I enjoy decorating for fall almost as much as for Christmas!

And I'm so glad to announce that my Gramma had her last cancer treatment this past Friday.  It's been a very long & tough 4 months of treatments, but she's been amazing through it all.  She will not be going for the tests to see how the treatments helped her until after the holidays as she wants to enjoy them.  So, we still have a long 3 months ahead of waiting for that tidbit, but I'm so glad she is done with treatments.

Now to end with a pregnacy update and little survey thing I've been seeing pop-up on a couple other mom's who are expecting blogs.

Friday I had my 6 month check-up.  Which I must say went remarkably better than last months.  Actually down 2 lbs, woo-hoo!  They dropped my glucose testings from 4 times a day, to only 2 times a day, and will not have to be put on insulin since my #'s are great. Avalynn's HB was about 150, although it took the Dr a few times to get it, as she is very active and wouldn't stay still long enough for him to cont.  He didn't have to tell me she's active, I definitely feel her all the time.  And I'm measuring approx. 2 weeks ahead, but I measured bigger with E's pregnancy too, so I guess it just means am meant to have bigger babies.

How far along: 1 day away from being 24 weeks - woohoo!

Total weight gain/loss: 3 lbs

Maternity clothes?:Yes please!  I only have a few pieces, as the Hubs just went back to work a month ago, they are/were not in the budget.  Once he starts OT the end of this month, I'll def. be picking up a few more, a girl can only live off of 2 pairs of pants for so long, can we say laundry every day!

Strech marks?: No new ones.

Sleep: This week, I'm just exhausted and sleep straight through the night without ever moving.  I will say though that I've found I need pillows all around, sleep with one behind my back, inbetween my legs, and my regular pillow, plus even though we're in the 50's poor Hubby has to suffer through me wanting the fan on, b/c I'm so warm.

Best moment this week: Hearing her HB at the Dr's appt.

 

Movement: Yes, several times throughout the day and she must think my bladder is a soccer ball or something, b/c she loves kicking on it constantly.

 

Food cravings: Thanksgiving dinner - the next month can't come fast enough! Otherwise, homemade mac 'n' cheese and hush puppies.

Gender: 110% GIRL

 

What I miss: sleeping on my stomach completely

 

Milestones: Hmmm...can't really think of anything right now. 

Goodbye for Now

I've been meaning to pop on here the past week - I won't be posting at all until we are moved/unpacked/situated.  So, beginning of November.  Currently we are in the packing stages, 1 1/2 weeks until his Uncle will be out of the house, then a week of cleaning/painting, following week getting the carpets cleaned and then moved.  The week after we move Hubs starts this crazy Overtime schedule so I hope to be back full swing in November, with lots of DIY'er projects to share - am creating a list. 

Also - thank you all for the sweet comments for Avalynn's name.  We're definitely sticking with it.  :o) 

Must get to packing now that the little one is down for nap. Speaking of - Happy 3rd Birthday sweet baby girl!

Emma, Ultrasounds, & Baby Names - oh my!

To keep the little one out of trouble - I have her help me with the daily chores.  Now if only I could muster this much enthusiasm for laundry!  Wouldn't life be so much brighter!

She's looking like such a big girl lately - I just can't get over how fast time is flying by!

Here are some ultrasound pictures.  My favorite is the last one as you can see the whole front of her - face, ribs/stomach, and her adorable little legs.

Now on to baby names.  Really - I think this is one of the worse pressures of being pregnant.  Picking just the right name.  All of the decisions!  When naming our oldest daughter I failed to even think of looking at the Top 10 or 100 baby name lists.  If I had I would have picked something entirely different.  As - I hate that her name is so common, has been #1 for the past few years.  But after being at the park and noticing when I call out "Emma", many other Emma's look at me, I vow to definitely look at name lists more closely for our next one. 

In the beginning, we really liked Chloe - but the more I think about it, I keep hearing more and more of them around.  I just can't do that again.  So, I turned to a good internet mommy friend who is really good with coming up with baby name lists.  And she didn't disappoint with a list for me and few that I definitely wouldn't have thought of.  Immediately - I fell in love with one.  Couldn't wait for the hubs to get home - because at that moment I wanted a decision made.  He agreed that he liked it too, so am happy to announce that the decision has finally been made.  Our youngest will be named - Avalynn Grace.  Can't wait for her arrival!!!

Just another Monday

If you'd like to participate head over to Amber's blog and join in the fun!

Welcome back to another week of Friend Makin Mondays!!
Since fall is {almost} in full swing,you know what that means! Season premiere week is right around the corner!!


What are some of your favorite fall shows?

Bones, Biggest Loser, So You Think You Can Dance, Chuck, Grey's Anatomy, Greek, and Army Wives

 

I wanted to thank you all on the baby gender congrats!  I planned on posting more this weekend, but at my appt on Friday I got a lecture on drinking too many calories.  Which has led me to have to cut out iced tea, milk, and juice.  Can we say caffiene withdraw anyone?  So - I slept a good amount this weekend.  Bleah!  

 

And it seems that my gestational diabetes is back.  Joy - Joy!   

 

But today is already a much better day!  Little one and me just have some preschool lessons to go over and later on making some homemade meatballs for spaghetti dinner tonight.  The hubs is definitely going to enjoy these!  Yummy!  

 

 

The results are in &....

we are having another baby GIRL!

I officially have some SWANK & other good news.

The Fabulous Bitch awarded me with this lovely "Your Blog is so SWANK" award this past weekend.  I forget where or how I stumbled across her blog but it is such a great & funny read!  Go ahead and check her out, you won't regret it!

She said this about my little blog:  measuring my life in l-o-v-e (Kat)
I just love the name of this blog! And Kat is doing her blog’s name justice. If you expected a sweet loving blogger, then you won’t be disappointed.
Let's just say it was a great way to end the weekend reading these words.  Thank you again!!!




Now to pass on this lovely gem to two ladies blogs I love to visit and read.  In no particular order:

Michaela over at Mama Michie's Musings
Trudy over at Third Time's a Charm



Have some good news to share -

I am 19 weeks along in this pregnancy today.  :: sigh ::  I can't believe that this pregnancy is half over!!!!  We go this Friday 9.11.09 for the BIG u/s!  I'm nervous and excited, personally I just hope that this baby shows us the money shot since our daughter never gave us a 100% clear shot. Below are a few shots I took today.

Also, not sure if I blogged about it, but the Hubs did get the job he was going for testing for last week!  Well he didn't get the job he tested for but he got another job at that place.  And personally am, A'OK with that, since the job is at Three Mile Island, aka TMI, and that job was dealing with radiation, this new position will be working on the cooling towers.  And we knew there'd be overtime hours but he got the word today.  End of October until at least the New Year he'll be working 7 days a week 10-12 hour days.  Am just trying to prep myself for all of that extra work that will be on me without his help, but if he can do those hours and work then I know I'll be able to do what needs to be done.

Also - we have an official MOVING DAY!  Damn it's taken a long ass while - considering we were supposed to be in there this past July 4th.  But, his uncle will be out of there by the 12th of October, so that gives us a couple weeks to clean/paint and get all moved in before the Hubs overtime hours start.  Yeah - life is definitely going to be crazy the next few months.

And my last bit of good news, that will hopefully turn into AMAZING news is that we have a repeat showing scheduled for tomorrow.  We lowered our house price a week in a half ago and this couple had looked at the house before the price drop and were interested but not for that price.  Fingers and toes are crossed - this will be such a stress reliever when the house is sold and not having to deal with any of it anymore!!!

I just need to say that after months of a down time in the roller coaster of life, I'm so glad to be climbing back up that big hill and for these better times that are coming. 

After Pregnancy...

your body will never go back to how it was before. This has never bothered me, it's part of the passage of motherhood and worth it for the life we are able to bring into the world.

Last night, mother in law invited us over for dinner, we had 3 showings yesterday I wasn't about to turn down a meal that I don't have to clean up, and she invited the hubs uncle. Afterwards, we were all sitting around chatting and he was talking about his neighbors (our soon to be neighbors in 1 1/2 months as we are buying his house), and how the wife was very beautiful but she hasn't been able to lose all of the baby weight, since having her son earlier this year. And then he turns to me, no offense. Um, wtf?, I lost all of my "pregnancy" weight with Emma, yeah my body shape might be a little different but honestly? You're going to talk to me about my weight? He who has for 40 some years been extremely overweight and just in the past year and a half loss a massive amount 130+lbs. Perhaps it's just me, but just because you've finally had your wake up call and done something about it doesn't mean you can judge.

Some men seem to only see the Hollywood version of moms who go right back to how they previously looked and have this idea that is how it really is. Puh-leaze! Your bodies change just as much as ours over the years but for some reason it's ok for you, and yet you don't go through carrying children, your only excuse is age and gravity.

Pregnacy hormones are running very strong - as I didn't express any of this to him, the hubs had to be subjected to my steam let off, some of the ride home. Thank you honey for being understanding and just listening, I swear I will be back to me in a few months and not so RAWR'ing at people as much.

Friday Fill-Ins

1. I feel happy & content.

2. Laughing with my family is always fun.

3. Right now, I can hear these things: a car going by, the radio, the keys tapping.

4. The baby is really moving right now and I'm glad to make it this far in the pregnancy and be able to feel all of this.

5. The last time I slept through the night was 1 1/2 weeks ago.

6. We're going to be too busy this Labor day weekend.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to dinner and shopping with my mother-in-law, tomorrow my plans include cleaning for a showing & visiting family and Sunday, I want to relax and stay home!

An Open Letter... or perhaps 2

Dear Emma Rose,

Things have been a roller coaster with you lately but we were finally starting to break through and have good days regarding your behavior. Somehow, with Daddy going back to work this week this has all gone down the toilet. I know that we got spoiled with having him around so much with his lay off & him and me fell into him being the disciplinarian role more than me, but this does NOT mean that rules are out the window with him going back to work.

Between the sass and you not sleeping, you literally had me dragging so I could have fallen asleep anywhere today.

So, here's a reminder for you of some things we follow in this house:

1. 3 am is not play time with me! If you don't see the sun up this means you should keep your cute little butt right in your bed and close those eyes! I do not function before the sun rises.
   
2. When you do get up for the day, come straight to me in bed. Do not sneak through our bedroom and downstairs looking for Daddy who has already left for work. You're going to give me a heart attack.
   
3. We are done playing games at nap time, you still need a nap, and you seem to think that you don't need any sleep, but my dear you definitely do for all of our sakes! So, we are done with warnings, if you can not stay in your toddler bed form, then I have no problem putting the crib front back on to keep you in there. You are going to see that this is non-negotiable.
   
4. Saying "please" and talking to someone, instead of demanding and yelling gets you much further in life, it'd just be easier if you learned this now, because I just do not seem to hear you when you talk any other way.
   
5. When someone is talking to you and you don't like what they are telling you, do not sass or yell back. You only end up punishing yourself with an automatic time out.
   
6. I understand that you are curious, but could we please move away from the land of "But why?" a little? I give you reasons and answers and they just seem to go in one ear and out the other without hitting your brain to register. Take a moment and actually listen.
7. For some reason the past couple weeks you have become very non-dependent. Saying "I can't" for many things that you are quite capable of doing. I do not know where this thinking came from, but you are capable of doing many things for yourself, so please start saying "I can" and not "I can't".
   
8. Lastly - You have been daytime potty trained for over two months, in the past two weeks you have started peeing in your pants, or you will go in the bathroom, and stand right in front of the toilet and pee on the floor, and you find this humorous at the time but remorseful after the fact. You are a big girl, so let's stop with this.
   

You are such an amazing intelligent little girl who is greatly loved by many. No matter punishments are a stern talking to that you receive, that fact is never changing.

Love,
Mommy



Dear Hubby,

The other night after you felt the baby kick for the 1st time in the pregnancy I could not fall asleep thinking of how blessed we are and I am to have you in my life.

The past few months have been very trying between you being laid off for almost 4 months, our house on the market and us waiting to move into the new one. But we never let it get us done, we kept our heads up and stood by each others sides throughout it all. I feel like we have finally reached a new level in our marriage.

I also want to thank you for being so helpful with things around here lately. For carrying all of the loads of laundry, making the extra trips to the car to carry in the groceries up a flight of stairs instead of both of us, cleaning without me asking, giving me a break from Emma when I need one. Not only the big things but the little thoughtful things you do all the time. I do notice them even if I do not comment on them all.

I know your are not that ecstatic about the new job location you are at, but we both know that it's a paycheck and I thank you for doing it anyways. I hope that in the coming weeks you begin to like it more.

Lastly, I just want to thank you for being you, for standing by my side these 8+ years. Our love and marriage has grown so much. I am proud to be your wife & best friend.

Love,
Me