Halloween

Mike and I went to a friend's halloween party and we had to wear costumes... If you know my hubby, you know his obsession with the Joker... And as for me, well, at 39 weeks pregnant, what can I be?! I was a cat, that ate a fish bowl!

The countdown...

Well, I am 38 1/2 weeks now. It's hard to believe that I'm due next week! Part of me keeps hoping that I'll go into labor soon, just because I'm so anxious to see her. But I'll miss being pregnant. I have loved every bit of it. As S grows, she's running out of room and she kicks me and squirms and I love feeling her move. I tried capturing some belly shots today with the aid of my mirror... I feel huge! :o)

It's getting close...

I remember over 9 months ago, I was 3 days late, we had only tried to get pregnant for one month. I woke up at 6 that morning with a full bladder and couldn't sleep anymore because I knew I'd be taking a pregnancy test. I got out of bed and peed on a stick. I placed in on the sink, upside down, because I couldn't bear the thought of seeing the negative sign. We had taken a pregnancy test 4 months prior when I had been 10 days late (I am never late), and even though we had not been trying, we really thought we could've have been. But when that test came back negative, I was broken hearted. So here I was, 4 months later, we had only tried during the month of February, and I am looking at this upside down test. When I felt the appropriate time had passed, I looked at the test. I was shaking, and praying so hard. When I saw that it was positive, I wanted to scream. I couldn't even talk. Then came the difficult task, how do I tell my husband?! He was fast asleep and had no idea I was even taking the test. So I go to the bed, sit next to him and start waking him up. I have the test in my hands and he is still half asleep. Plus he's also legally blind without his glasses, so he can barely see me. lol So I show him the test. He had the most puzzled look in his face and I have a smile from ear to ear. So I finally scream, "it's positive!" He was in shock. I believe his response was "Dang, on the first try!?" That was one of the hardest secrets to keep. We didn't tell anyone for a week.

Even though that was a great day, my favorite pregnant memory was when we found out we were having a girl. I was so excited, but Mike was elated! He just knew God was going to give him his little girl, and He did. I think Mike floated out of that doctor's office.

That all feels like such a long time ago. Now we are days away from being parents. We are both anxious to meet this little girl. I can't believe God chose to bless us with the gift of parenthood. It's been an amazing 9 months. We've had our difficulties towards the end of this pregnancy, but I wouldn't trade it for anything. And although I am terrified of not being a good mom, I am so excited to start being a mom to this little girl. I still can't believe how fast time flies. It seems like yesterday when we found out we were pregnant... I'm so thankful God answered our prayers!

ultrasound

Today, at 37 weeks and 5 days, we had another ultrasound to make sure S is doing well. She is doing great! She now weighs 6.13 pounds... And has chubby cheeks. Here is a picture of her face "looking" at you.

2nd nst

I went for my second nst today. It went well. S is doing great! My doctor came in to read the print out after I was monitored for about 30 mins and said, hey you had a contraction. I was like, "oh did I?" I didn't even feel it. lol Tomorrow I go back for an ultrasound. My gestational diabetes has become a pain, but I'm managing. I've had some problems keeping my blood sugars down, but they're not as high as they were in the weekend. I just gotta keep watching those carbs! For other news, I'm about 2 1/2 weeks away from my due date. Yikes! Mike and I are on the countdown. The nursery is pretty much ready, my bags are packed... Uncle Jovan set up the car seat in the car for us. Now I just need to figure out how to get the car seat on the stroller. lol They are complicated!

The room!

Here are a few more recent pictures of S's room. There's still some stuff missing, but it's pretty much ready... There's a picture of the beautiful and comfy chair from daddy Mike! He gave it to us yesterday as a surprise! I love sitting in it.

Doctor's visit

Today I went and had my first nonstress test (nst). I got to hear Story's heartbeat. I was attached to the monitor for about 40 minutes or so and she was so wiggly. She moved around the whole time. Then we had a quick ultrasound. I got to see her face and she opening and closing her mouth, it was so cute! The doctor seemed please with everything so far. I go back for another nst on Tuesday and sonogram on Wednesday.

For other news, on Tuesday, Story was very active. She moved all day, I had a feeling I knew what she was doing, but the ultrasound confirmed it. She has changed positions! She is now head down. The doctor didn't seem bothered by it, and remains sure that I'll go to my due date. We'll see... I have the strangest feeling this kid wants to come out early, but I just hope I can get everything done before.

When I got home, Mike had a surprise for Story and I. He bought us a rocking chair for her nursery! It's so pretty. And he put the stroller together and set up the diaper champ! What a sweet daddy. Her room is almost ready. Pictures soon to come!

Baby shower#4

Today we had our last baby shower! It was so much fun. We were surrounded by family and friends and really felt so loved! They really spoiled S and we appreciate all they've done for us. Mike's mom threw a great shower, and we are so grateful she took the time to do something special for us!

Cake that Renea made

Another quick update

I appreciate your prayers so much! God has been so good, the prayers are working! I've been able to manage my blood sugar and keep it under 120 for the past 3 days. Sometimes I come really close, but other times I'm in the 90's and it's great! I've been pretty much eating whatever I want, just counting the carbs. I am still avoiding sweets and sodas... Which has been really hard because for the past few days I've been dying for some coke and a root beer float. :o) Oh well!

My doctor's office called me yesterday. I am scheduled for a NST once a week until the baby comes. I also have a sonogram in 2 weeks. So we'll see. My doctor said I've reached the point that if she came now, everything would be fine, so that's comforting.

Today I am at 36 weeks! Wow... I can't believe I'm at the end. I have loved being pregnant, and will miss it, but Mike and I are getting anxious to meet our daughter. Sometimes we go into the nursery and just look at everything with anticipation to see a little girl in it. :o) We are nervous, because as first time parents, we're clueless, but yesterday Mike told me that God gave us this baby now for a reason, so I know we'll be ready! I can't wait to hold my little princess.

Thank you so much for your prayers and support. It means so much to us!

Just a quick one

Today I saw my ob/gyn and he was ok with my blood sugar. I had some high ones this past week, but I think I"m getting the hand of it now, and he knows I'm trying. He was also happy with my blood pressure, which was normal. Thank God! I had nightmares all night that I went to see him and my blood pressure was through the roof, but that was not the case. So we're both doing great for now! Thank you for your prayers. Next week I'll see the doctor and have what is called a stress test. They will strap a monitor to my belly for about an hour and monitor S heartbeat, movement, amniotic fluid and some other stuff. He said it's common to do in a diabetic pregnancy. He was very optimistic with everything. I even asked if most gestational diabetic moms make it to 40 weeks and he said yes. That was good to hear. Although, with the way I'm feeling most of the time, if she came a week or so early, there would be no complaints. lol But I do want her to be healthy and strong! Again thank you for your prayers! You have no idea how I appreciate it!

Diabetes update

Ok, so I went to my diabetes/ nutrition class today. First we met with a diabetes nurse who told us everything that can happen to the baby and mom at birth. The baby can have low blood sugar, jaundice or be bigger in weight. My biggest concern is that I have a chance of preeclampsia which is not good for me or the baby. So we're just praying none of that happens... There's a lot more that can happen, but I had to start ignoring it all or it would depress me. Those are just the major ones. She also told us that with gestational diabetes, our blood sugar should be at or lower than 120 2 hours after eating. That's when I'm supposed to check my blood sugar, 2 hours after each meal. It's been in the 130's-140's range. This morning after breakfast it was 148, the highest for me. After lunch, I felt a bit sick and have been since. I was able to eat dinner, although I ended up forcing myself to finish. Since lunch my blood sugar has stayed between 93-97. I think that's good, but for some reason, I just don't feel good at all..

Anyways, in the class we also met with the dietician who helped us understand how to plan our meals. Basically, I have to read food labels and count carbs. I can only eat 15-30 carbs at breakfast, so that's like 1 piece of toast, 1 scrambled egg and 8 oz of milk.. That's just one example... I have a list of suggestions... We're also supposed to have a snack between each meal. And then each meal is a different amount of carbs. Lunch can be 55 carbs... So now I have to figure out exactly what has how many carbs. Kind of a big pain, but whatever... I have to stay away from starch and sugar... She said not to drink soda (way too much sugar) and fruit juices. So I'm pretty much stuck with water and crystal light. Tomorrow I'll go to the grocery store so that I can finally have some food to eat. lol

Well that's my update, sorry it was long. It's not been fun to test my blood sugar 4 times a day, in fact my fingers are sore. lol But I figured out I was using the higher setting of the needle and making myself bleed more, which is unnecessary. So I changed it to a lower setting...

Thanks for your continual prayer. We really appreciate it! Oh and tomorrow I'll see my ob/gyn and discuss the gestational diabetes, I haven't seen him since I found out. Mike wants to discuss how all this will affect labor and stuff...

Some new pictures!

Here I am at 35 weeks! I can't believe how fast time has gone. My little girl will be here soon and I can't wait to hold her in my arms..

Baby shower #3

My work threw me a baby shower, it was great! We got lots of goodies!
I can't believe she'll be here in a month. It's so wild to think about!
Here are some pictures of the shower.

5 years

Five years ago today I started dating my wonderful hubby! He was my first boyfriend, my one true love! I cannot believe 5 years have gone by. I look back at that day and think about where we were. Our relationship began at the Duke Garden (a beautiful place). I remember when he left NC to go back home, I was miserable. Would a long distance relationship really work? He was 500 miles away from me. We talked on the phone daily, which helped me improve my communication skills, I hate talking! lol But it's all we had. We talked about getting married, having children, our hopes and dreams... And now here we are 5 years later, married, with a baby on the way. 5 years ago, this all seemed so far away, and now I look back, and that seems so far away. Where does time go?

I have enjoyed every minute of the past 5 years. God truly blessed me with Mike. He really is my prince charming and I'm so thankful for him. He is my rock, my encourager... I don't know what I'd do without his support and strength. I love our life together and I look forward to so many more years to come. I love him more today than I did 5 years ago!!!

Honey, I love you more than words can express and I love what we share. I cannot wait to see you holding our little girl!

Bad news

I went to my ob/gyn last week and he was worried my blood sugar level was too high. I took the 3 hour glucose test (for the 2nd time) and got the dreaded phone call with the results today. I have gestational diabetes. It has been a hard day for me, I have all sorts of emotions. I am upset and angry about this. I know that there's nothing I could do to prevent this from happening, but I keep thinking it's my fault and I'm a bad mother. I know God is in control, I'm just freaking out! I went online and read up on GD and Story and I are at a risk of having type 2 diabetes in the future, among many other things... I'm just frustrated and don't understand why this is happening. I have 5 weeks to go and now I have this problem to deal with. I have to monitor my blood sugar at home, and take a dietary class next week. I have to change my diet and avoid all the sweets and stuff. I'm fine with doing all that, if it means S will be healthy and her delivery will go smoothly. So many thoughts are running through my mind, and I"m trying to just thank God for this and that it's not something worse. Mike and I are coming up with a healthier eating plan, and exercise. For now and later. I will miss my chocolate and coffee, but it's worth giving up for the health of my baby. Please pray for me, that I can get through these next weeks and manage my blood sugar. And most importantly that S will be born healthy and free of any health issues because of this.
Thank you!

Smile award!

I was just awarded the smile award by my wonderful sister! Well, obviously I've known her my whole life, we're twins! We didn't always get along when we were young, but once we became adults, we've become inseparable. Our friendship has gotten deeper and deeper with each passing year. We've been able to share so much, she's been a wonderful support through my pregnancy and I look forward to sharing motherhood with her. I know she'll be able to offer me great advice, because she's such a wonderful mommy to my handsome nephew, Owen. I love my sister, and I"m so thankful God gave me a best friend to grow up with.


Now, the recipients I choose for this award are:

Aimee I've known Aimee for what seems like forever! We met in High School and I had never met anyone like her before. She was so hyper and loved the color neon green. I loved getting to know her, and now we're grown ups, we're both married, and have children. She and I are both expecting girls due in about 5-7 weeks. Aimee was a bridesmaid in my wedding, and I in hers. We have shared a lot, and she's always been there for me!

Caitlin-I met Caitlin when I moved to NC, she was mine and Cindy's roomate. She is so awesome! What can I say, I have always had a hard time trusting people and opening up, but not with Caitlin. She became and instant friend and she always listened. I knew she was someone that I could go go to and not be judged. And she always made me laugh! She has the most beautiful little girl that I wish I could meet! I miss Caitlin so much and I'm so thankful we get to keep up via internet!

Courtney- I've also known Courtney since High School. We also got to share college up in NC. It was so fun to have a friend when I lived up there. I remember our Summer Harris class, boy we never slept for about 2 weeks. It was so intense, but so fun! I enjoyed spending time with her and her family, they always made me feel welcome. She was also a bridesmaid in my wedding!

Cindy- Cindy and I met here, but I don't think we got close until we both moved to NC and became roomates. It was really nice to be able to live with someone I knew. She loved making dinner, and going off on adventures... She taught me what a farmer's market was. :o) And we loved having breakfast for dinner! She was also one of the sneaky people that knew what Mike's "intentions" were with me. :o) She's always been there for me and I enjoyed being her roomate, until she abandoned me... lol

My Mom-What can I say about my mom?! After I got out of the "my mom doesn't know what she's talking about" stage, she became a good friend. I think we got really close after she got sick and I've enjoyed our friendship. She is a great mom. She is also a terrific crafter and has really gotten the hang of crochet. She is great at it! She does all this stuff for animal charities.


Characteristics for the Smile Award:
1. Must display a cheerful attitude.
2. Must love one another.
3. Must make mistakes.
4. Must learn from others.
5. Must be a positive contributor to blog world.
6. Must love life.
7. Must love kids.

These are the rules for The Smile Award:
1. The recipient must link back the the award’s creator
2. You must post these rules if you receive the award.
3. You must chose 5 people to receive the award after receiving it yourself.
4. You must fit the characteristics of the recipient of the award, as posted by Mere
5. You must post the characteristics of a recipient.
6. You must create a post sharing your win with others.
7. You must thank your giver.

September 24th 2005

I decided to do this post one day early because I wasn't sure if I would have time tomorrow.
So what's so important about that date? Well, 3 years ago, Mike and I got married. I can't believe it's been 3 years. It already feels like a lifetime. I remember all the plans we made for our life when we were engaged, and I assure you that most of our dreams and plans have not come true. Thank God for that! Life has not been what we had thought it would be, it is not like a fairy tale, "and they lived happily ever after" but in a way it is. We have had many ups and downs, but I wouldn't trade anything for the world. I love our life together. I love that we have experienced the happy and sad, side by side. We have gone through "for bad, for worse, for richer for poorer" and we've survived! And I can say, the only reason I've stayed sane, and trusting in the Lord, is because of the wonderful partner I've had to encourage me, to cry with me, to make me laugh. I love my husband so much. Sometimes, I look at him, at those beautiful blue eyes of his that makes me melt, and I wonder why him, why God picked him to be my life partner. I don't know why. But I'm thankful that I trusted God and waited for the man He chose. Mike is indeed my prince charming and I am so thankful that he is the one I get to share my life with. I feel so blessed that he's my husband. He is so patient with me, so kind and gentle. He is a wonderful leader and I trust his leadership of our family 100%.
Honey, I just want to say that I love you and happy 3 years! I can't wait to see what else God has in store for us.

Baby Shower

This past weekend my sister and mom threw a great baby shower for us. I was so happy to see old friends and celebrate with them. It was also fun to get great presents, they are a great help in getting ready for this little girl's arrival! Thank you to all my friends for my sweet gifts! Thank you to my sister for all the hard work she put into giving me a great shower!
The pretty Cake Viv got for me!

Presents!!!

New pictures!

32 weeks is here! We are getting ready for S's arrival. We've got her furniture set up, and baby showers are starting. We're so excited to meet our little girl! Please keep her in your prayers, we've got 8 more weeks to go and I want her to stay in there as long as possible growing big and strong. :o)

Guess who?!

Can you guess who this cute baby is?

31 Weeks!

All right, here's an updated photo of what I currently look like. I feel huge! But I am loving every minute of it. Despite the sleepless nights, backpains, and hunger, I love it! I am excited to meet my baby girl, but dreading having to share her. :o) My prayers is that she'll stay in there and grow big and strong until her due date. I love feeling her kick. She has been more and more active lately and it's so great! Sometimes in the middle of the night, I'll wake up to go to the bathroom, lay back down, and she will be so hyper. I just stay awake (like she lets me sleep) and touch my belly and talk to her. I also smile b/c I love being reminded that she's there. I'll miss the moments when she kicked and stuff. But in about 2 months, I'll get to cuddle with her.

Ode to my husband!

Today is my husband's birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY HONEY!!!
I am so thankful for my wonderful hubby and that we get to celebrate another birthday together. I'm so thankful for the great hubby I have. He is so selfless and such a hardworker. He never complains, and works hard to provide for his family. He also always makes me laugh! I love being married to him! Thank you for being so great!
There will be more pictures to come! We are celebrating all week.
I love you Honey!!!

Mike at his birthday last year!