My Precious Moments!

Pooped out!

2011-07-09T19:14:00.000-07:00

I'm sooo tired, I don't know how I'm writing this, ha!

We went to Champaign for 2 days, but we did so much stuff there it was exhausting. We went to the playground, we went to the museum, we went to the pool, we grilled out, we basically didn't stop much :)
They kids were great though, a little crankiness, but not much for no naps for 2 days straight.

We then got back today, unpacked the car, and then turned around and got loaded up to go to the lake. We went out with Beth and Will and had a good time. There was great company on the boat. Aydan was a little dare devil today. He got into water (with jacket) and was doing all sorts of things. He went on the beach, up and down, sitting in sand, playing with the bucket, basically had a BLAST!
Now I'm home, both kids were asleep by 8, and I'm heading there in minutes!
Goodnight world!

2 Doctor check up's!

2011-07-07T19:36:00.000-07:00

I had Emma's 4 month appt. and Aydan's 3 year appt today. They are going soooo much! But the appt. went well, so that's great news.
Aydan: 3 years old
3'4" 31 lbs. Projected to be 6'3" !!! Whoa, taller than Mom and Dad. He's says he talks really well and will probably be an early reader. And last but not least, he told me not to be worried about the potty training, ha. We'll see.
Emma: 4 months old
2'2" 12.5 lbs. 98% for height. 40% for weight. She's doing good. She's sitting up (not on own), holding her head up nice. She cooooing and making good sounds. She's aware of Mom and people around her.

So proud of my kids and their good check ups.

4 months old!

Aydan at the park

Its been awhile

2011-07-05T19:18:00.000-07:00

Ok.... ok... sorry, it's been awhile since I have blogged. I hit a wall. Then I didn't make the time. Etc, excuse, excuse.

I lot has happened since Mother's day (my last post):
*The school ended. Yay! More time with little Emma and crazy Aydan.
*I also got my contract to teach again next year and got tenture, yay!!
*Went on an extremely fun Wine trail weekend. My husband planned an early birthday present for me. We got a limo for the day and hit the wine trails, it was so much fun!!
*Justin turned 32
*I tried 29, 1 more year until I'm 30. I had a really fun night out with teachers and a nice night with my husband for a movie and sushi.
*We celebrated our niece's birthday where she turned 1, Avalinn, and our friend's son turned 1 too, Jake. Two 1st birthdays in 1 day.
*Emma went swimming for the 1st time, she also laughed the 1st time right before the pool.
*I was in a wedding. One of my best friend, Courtney got married! yay! It was such a beautiful day. And such a fun night. I haven't had that much fun dancing in a long time!
*We went to Chicago for Justin's summer conference. Emma's 1st trip there. We got to visit with my friend Heather and meet her son Brayden. He's a preemie, and such a spirited beautiful baby. I so happy for them. We also had a nice dinner out with Cory, Albrey, and Jay.
*We had a good 4th of July, took Aydan to see Cars 2, he enjoyed himself.
*I started cereal and bananas with Emma about a week ago.
*She drooling like crazy and chewing on Sophie the giraffe

*Emma turns 4 months later this week, crazy, the time has flown. I have her doctor's appt on Thursday, along with Aydan's 3 year appt.
I'll be back soon with her 4 month details.

The wine trail trip

Laughing at mommy

1st time swimming, she laughed this night

My mini-me

Emma at 3 months

Highchair for 1st time

Chewing on many toys

Her 1st Fourth of July

Mother's Day

2011-05-13T19:00:00.000-07:00

I had the BEST mother's day. I felt very loved that day. It started out with Aydan coming in in the morning giving me a gift card for a few massages! (from daddy of course, but it was wonderful). Then Justin said we should leave early for Lauren and Drew's house and go over to the Galleria to the Cheesecake Factory for brunch, yum!! It was beautiful weather and we got a seat outside, such a nice meal. We then spent the day with family and friends! Aydan had a lot of fun playing outside, so much that he fell asleep in the car after 5 minutes. We had a nice evening at home that night. Great day in all!

Here's a picture of me with my two blessings that really made Mother's Day what its all about!

Emma's 2 month appointment

2011-05-11T19:21:00.000-07:00

Emma was 2 month last Thursday. She had her appt. on Friday. The big SHOTS day, booooo. She did really well with it actually. She had like delayed crying, but as soon as I held her hand and talked to her, she calmed down. She was a little crabby the next 24 hours, but she was sooo brave and dealt with the fever afterwords so well. yay!! Break my heart to have to have her take that pain in.

At 2 months, she is 11.1 lb, in 75th %. And almost 2 ft, the 97%. Yup, that's right we're going to have 2 crazy tall kids. Doctor said she's as healthy as can be. She's doing great holding her head up and that of course she was so beautiful! hehe.

LOVE her smile here. She sticks her tongue out when she gets excited, its pretty cute.

Getting Aydan to eat.. grrr!

2011-05-10T18:40:00.000-07:00

Well I'm ready to admit that Justin and I did a bad thing for our son already. Aydan is the slowwwwwest eater ever. And to just get the meal over with quicker we have always just spoon feed him ourselves. He's totally capable of doing it himself, but he play and chews slowly (like hr and half on his own, goo), so we hurry him along and spoon it in, remind him to keep chewing and to speed it up basically.
But now with two kids, I don't have time to sit and spoil him rotten anymore like that. So the last week and few days, I've been trying to break him of it. NO toys to the table (distractions). He gets his meal, spoon, and fork and he has to eat everything on his own. Sometimes I put a cartoon on in backround. He has to leave the table occasionally for time out. Some meals still take over an hour, but some good ones are only 30 minutes. We're getting there. We did it for so long, so it may take awhile to break it, but I'm sticking to it! He may always be a slow eater, but he'll eat on his own, or his won't eat! As his grandpa says (a doctor), he'll eat when he's hungry, he'll be just fine. :)

Emma's Sleeping habits

2011-05-09T19:24:00.000-07:00

So.... I have been blessed with two great children. Aydan was a such a good baby, slept well, hardly fussed, etc, etc, etc. Emma is not as good as that, but she is still such a good baby. She's so happy in the morning and smiles at me already, melts my heart!!!
She has been sleeping in her bed for about 2 and 1/2 weeks now. I've been back at work for over a week now, and she since the 2 day back at work, she hasn't eaten anymore during the middle of the night anymore. The 1st night I did it and she then didn't want to eat at 6/630 when I got up, so I stopped that right away, ha. The 2nd night, she made me go back in every 30-45 min to give her back her passy.. but by the 3rd night, we were in buisness!! She sleeps from around 8:30 until 6:00-6:30, yay!!! She of course has some off nights and gets gas before bed (such as last night) and then she fusses til 10 or later to fall alseep, but I still feel so LUCKY to have 2 great sleeper babies!

Emma's Baptism

2011-05-07T11:42:00.000-07:00

Emma's Baptism was last weekend. It finally stopped raining that morning for it. We had some family and close friends come for the ceremony at church... which was also a very nice service too! I proud to have my daughter baptism!!
Emma's new godparents are Will and Beth Sandusky, and I'm sure be a great guidance for her to look up to.

I don't have the church pictures of her yet. Going to get them from my sister-in-law tomorrow. But, this picture is her back at the house in her princess dress. We have people over for snacks and lunch, so she was styling for that too. I'll get a picture of baptism up eventually.

It was a great day for Emma and the beginnings of her faith to come!

Emma's sleeping is getting better

2011-04-27T20:18:00.000-07:00

Emma is now sleeping in her crib. She has been for a week now. Which is actually twice as long as Aydan got in the pack in play next to our bed. He only got 3 weeks with us, but mind you... he was perfect, did cry, make scary noises, move at night, anything. So there were no worries. Emma on the other hand, make scary squeaks all night. She got 6 weeks in our room. The last week or two before I moved her out, she went through some "fussy"ness before bed. Don't know if was belly aches or gas, but would take her much long to fall asleep. Once alseep, she slept great and long, but took awhile.
Saturday night before Easter she was a great night. Out like a light quickly and slept great. She had 4 nights like that, until tonight, as I'm typing this, ha. I screwed myself by speaking too early prob. I'm trying to be strong by letting her cry (hard), but its the way I trained Aydan into be the best little sleeper I know.
But I'm def still bragging on Emma, because she's a good girl and a good sleeper for mommy. We still get up once to eat aroun 3:30-5ish and then back to sleep til 7:30-8. That's awesome! She's only got about 3 more weeks until I'm be getting rid of the night feeding, just like I did with Aydan.
Unfortunately the whole sleeping til 8 thing is disappearing next week. Its back to work, and I'm soooooo sad about it. Can't imagine being away from her so long. I haven't let her go as much as I did with Aydan. Thankfully, only back to work for 5 weeks, and then its summmmmmmertime! Then I get 10 weeks with my baby girl again.

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T16:02:00.000-07:00

We had an excellent day today!!!
1st off, Emma gave me an Easter present... She went to bed last nightat 9pm WITHOUT fussyness or gas, slept until 4:30, ate, and then back to bed until 8!! yay!
Then we hurried to get 2 kids ready and got to church, on time! yay again!
After church we had a very nice meal at Justin's parents house with his sister and family. We visited. Did a mini egg hunt inside because it was raining outside (still). And then home to relax.
I had a great Easter day, hope it was for the kids too!!


My little bunnies

All dressed for church... took many shots to get this one :)

The family, Easter 2011

Soooo cute

Hehehehe

Aydan's 1st big boy haircut

2011-04-21T19:54:00.000-07:00

We took Aydan over to Fairview Heights today for his haircut. Thought it would be fun because they have fun cars you get to sit in and a tv that plays a movie for them to watch. Well, none of that mattered because he was mad the minute she tried to put the cape around his neck. So, he wins, we didn't use one. Then he acted like she was killing him throughout the haircut. Cried. Kicked. Tried to get away from her. I had to hold his head still at points during it.
Thankfully the lady was awesome. She moved quick! And she did a great job on him. I hope it only gets easier from here on out. We'll see.

The before picture. Love it.

Half way down. The sides have been shaved.

Almost done here. Here's one of his locks from the ground.

The finished product!!!

A day out shopping

2011-04-19T14:51:00.000-07:00

This is a little late to blog, but still worth a laugh I think. So, a few days ago we went to Evansville to run some errands and do a little shopping. Day was starting out ok, except the spitting rain that wouldn't quit it. But... then we got to the first store, Toys r Us. I had feed Emma in the car before we went in and couldn't get a burp from her. So as Aydan is playing at the Thomas train table, Emma throws up, rainbow style, onto the table from her carseat. Gross! It was so not fun to change her and clean up in a cart right there in store. But, I have to laugh about it now. She was fine the rest of the day. The rain, sleet, wind, etc was no good the rest of the day though. Made for interesting trying to get 2 kids in and out of stores quickly. ha.
We then went to a wedding reception that evening... with no nap for Aydan... and he was good until about 8:30, until he broke down crying telling me he wanted to go home. It was so cute actually! So, then we headed home.
Good family day for sure.

My class meets Emma

2011-04-11T18:09:00.000-07:00

I took Emma into school while it was in session today. I had promised to bring her in for the class to meet her, so I had to hold up to the bargain. They were shocked and surprised to see both of us. Crazy, how I miss them but still not ready to go back yet... because then would miss Emma tooo much. It'll be nice to spend the last month of school with them though.
They said they missed me and that the baby was very cute.
It was a nice day!

1st Cardinals game of the season

2011-04-10T15:52:00.000-07:00

We took the whole family out to a Cardinals game last week. I was nervous about taking 2 kids under the age 3 to a game, ha. Aydan was a good boy. Didn't watch a ton of the game, but he did watch some. He was really excited on the metro, right when we got into the park, and when we got popcorn! He had no fits while there, so that was good! Emma slept almost the whole game, until I changed her diaper and it woke her up. People around us were very impressed with how the kids were acting, esp Emma, who they said didn't even realize there was a baby there until the end when I got up with her. Justin even got a haircut at the park too, for gentlemen's day!!

My big boy Aydan!


The fam

It was a very nice family day in the end, and I think Aydan had fun.

My nieces 2nd birthday

2011-04-09T06:55:00.000-07:00

Smiling girl

Emma passed out before the cake was cut.. hehe

You want me to do what with those candles?

Hurry mom, I'm ready to dig in

The baby basket we got her and she put her cat in : )

So... 2 of my nieces turned 2 a couple weeks ago. But 1 of them lives too far away to attend her birthday party, so I missed Olivia party. I did however get to celebrate and sing Happy Birthday to my niece Vivian. Funny thing is both their moms got them a Dora cake, the same one!

Hope both of them had a good birthday!

Emma Jane is 1 month old

2011-04-08T17:37:00.000-07:00

My little baby girl is 1 month old! I can't believe it, time has flown : ( tear.

She had a healthly check up. She weighed 9 lb. 8 oz, which is in the 80% and was 22 1/2 in long, which was in the 98%. She was able to follow the doctor moving and impressed him with her super human baby powers to hold her head up! All in all, he said she was a very healthly looking baby. He started her on vitamin drops to make up for some that she losing with only being breastfeed.. they smell gross, but she took her 1st one like a pro.

Next month when she goes back, it'll be time for shots, booo. Mom will have to cry again I'm sure.

Emma next to her big bunny, eventually she'll be bigger than her bunny.

Emma is crying, Aydan got jealous and wanted to be int he picture and her smiled great.

A up close and personal picture. Sooo cute at 1 month. She does smile sometimes, but not on command yet, so no smile here.

Bridal shower

2011-04-07T06:57:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends is getting married in about 2 months. Her sister threw her a lovely shower last weekend that I went up for. Had a great time. Hadn't seen some of my friends since Kristie's wedding actually, so the visit was nice. It was a nice day, little windy! The food was good, too good, for someone trying to lose baby weight, hehe. Courtney made it really cute opening up her gifts with such excitement... it makes the wedding time really start to feel close.. I'm sure even closer for her : )
That night, I got out for my 1st adventure away from Emma for almost 2 hours. Of course, was worried about her the whole time, like any other new mother, but I had a GREAT time getting drinks and catching up with two of my friends.

The beautiful bride to be...

P.S. have been away from blogging for a couple weeks, so I have some catch up to do.. I'll have a new post every day here for next week, trying to catch up. : )

Happy Anniversary to US!

2011-03-22T06:41:00.000-07:00

Today is our 3 year anniversary! Its been a crazy fun 3 years. We've moved into our 1st house, Justin won the State's Att election and moved home, we had our son Aydan, we had our daughter Emma, took many trips (1 being our 1st drive to FL).... but most of all we've had a wonderful 3 years of our marriage! I look forward to what we have in store for us in the years to come!

March 22, 2008

Photo Shoot Day

2011-03-19T14:08:00.001-07:00

Emma had her 1st photo shoot today. She was a trooper with all the different posses and outfits I brought for her. Bethany had the studio nice and warm when we got there. She didn't sleep through it as much as I thought she would.. but that's ok, we got to see her big eyes in most of them.

So... of course we did...
*the knit cocoon and hat outfit, laying in a long bowl
*just the diaper on her yellow blanket with her name on it
*tried some close ups of her holding my finger, me clasping my hands around her feet, and my feet and her feet together
*her in a cute little dress outfit
*close up of her wearing sunglasses and a passy that said Supermodel, ha... it should be cute, and prob a little too diva, ha
*little pink outfit with big pink bow in hair
*naked wrapped in a bowl with a pink blankie

The 2 hr session was a blast. With 2 feedings in that time to try to get her to sleep.
I can't wait to see the pictures. Beth posted 2 of them already on facebook for a preview for me.. and they look amazing! In a couple weeks, I get to see the rest of them.

Emma is 9 days old already!

2011-03-16T19:11:00.000-07:00

Emma Jane is 9 days old already! That's why I haven't blogged much lately. My new life has consisted of feeding her and trying to sleep when I can... which to be honest is not much, but that's ok.. still love my little girl to death.
She is a very sweet little girl. She is a good baby and hardly cries... except when hungry : )
She has a lot of features from me... yay! My chin, my color, hair color, and face. She has her daddy's nose, just like her brother. She also looks a little like her brother when she has a hat on that completely covers her hair.
Its def been fun dressing her.. girl clothes are so much more fun! We went shopping today (our 1st outing) and I got her Easter dress... oh how cute.

Had to add this! Caught he smiling while sleeping, it was sooo cute!

She was sleep (of course), waiting to go to the hospital to re-take her hearing test.. which she passed, thankfully!

Big brother on the ground laying on the edge, so far.. he's a great big brother!

Our sweet little girl!

2011-03-10T12:59:00.000-08:00

We took Aydan home yesterday from the hositpal. We had a good 1st night with her last night. She squeaks a little big and moves a lot while sleeping, but stays asleep. We got up twice to eat, the 2nd time once a great feeding, but overall I think she was such a good girl last night!!

My last picture pregnant with Emma

Emma Jane Hood

The 1st day she had a mohawk!

Hanging with her daddy.... snuggling

1st time Aydan sees Emma!!! What a moment! : )

My little princess getting ready to go home!

That's its for today... pretty tired still!

Emma is here!!

2011-03-08T19:01:00.001-08:00

Emma Jane Hood was born on March 7, 2011 at 7:42 am. She weighed 8 lbs, 7 oz, and 19 1/2 in long. She has a full head of hair and it stood up like a mohawk the 1st day. She's the sweetest thing ever, and we all love her to pieces!
Aydan is a proud big brother. He smiled really big when he saw her! We'll see if that changes when she comes home with us!
I'll post more and some pictures when I go home tomorrow or Thursday.

Less than 15 hours!

2011-03-06T15:04:00.000-08:00

Well in less than 15 hours we will have our little new bundle of joy! We're very excited... as is the rest of the family!
I will get a few pictures up as soon as I get home later in the week. My husband doesn't know how to use this thing and the hospital doens't have internet.

I hope everyone has a good week and I'll be seeing you later!!
(Sorry, have a lot more to do tonight before going to bed early!)

Love, the Hoods (to be family of 4!)

2 days!!

2011-03-05T18:48:00.000-08:00

We're down to 2 days now!!

We had a nice family day. We went to the pancake breaksfast at the high school in town. We then took Aydan to see the new movie Rango. He didn't like it as much as we thought he might.. but he did like going to the "movies" and getting to get popcorn. We then went to dinner with Justins parents. We had an excellent steak dinner and some excellent strawberry cheesecake for dessert!!

Have some last minute things to do tomorrow before we go to the hosptial on Monday!

3 days!!!!

2011-03-04T19:12:00.000-08:00

Well really.. only 2 days, because today is almost over.. and then 3 nights. We go in Monday morning at 5 am to start getting prepped for surgery.. which won't be until 7:30 am.

Today was a long day. I had to pre-cert reg at the hosptial today. I had to go through admitting, blood work, meet with the anestheisa doctor, and go through all the info/paper work with the maternity ward.
Then it was back to work (late because the hosptial took so long) for the afternoon. We got our very long art project I started done and I meet with my maternity leave teacher to go over late minute things.

We plan on relaxing and having some 3 person family time this week... until Monday when we become a 4 person family!

38 weeks and 1 day = last doctor's appt.

2011-02-28T19:32:00.000-08:00

I had my last appt today. The doctor said the heart beat was great and that everything else looked good. Basically I just have to hang in there until next Monday, unless things start to really pick up, contraction wise.
I think she's going to stay in there stubborn, just like her brother, until she is ripped out, ha. I must be a really good incubator!!

I will keep everyone posted on the next week and if anything changes!

A great pick-me-up for a Pregnant lady

2011-02-26T14:03:00.000-08:00

Today I had a GREAT pick-me-up. I got some beautiful flowers from one of my good friends! It was a good surprise, a very sweet note on the card.... and seriously made my day! Thanks to Courtney and Nate for being so thoughtful!
Here is a picture of my kitchen window now: My favorite is the pink vase and the white lily in front with splashes of pink on it!!

Almost 38 weeks.....

2011-02-25T18:03:00.000-08:00

I'm almost 38 weeks.. but I don't know that I'm going to do another picture this Sunday... we'll see. I just got my maternity pictures today in the mail... and I love them! I took a couple pictures of 2 of my favorites, minus the one I already put up with the blocks.

Ok, tried turning them about a billion times, and its not working.. for some reason when load into blogspot they turn, don't know why.. aren't like that are my hardrive. Anyways, you get the idea is turn your head as to what they look like.

Here's also 1 of the many projects I did this week: (well over last 2 weeks, it took awhile with all the sickness around my house.
Inspired by my sister, who loves potta dots!

Other than that.. Justin is doing better. Aydan is off and on.. seems better and then throws up again! gooo

But its 10 days until my c-section... and really hopes he's back to normal by the time the baby comes.

Please God, can everyone in my family be healthy when I have this baby?

2011-02-24T07:27:00.000-08:00

So... it's happening all over again with everyone being sick... just one month later and right before I'm having a baby. THANKFULLY this time, I haven't gotten it yet! Fingers crossed because I really don't want to have to go into the hospital early to get an IV because I'm throwing up.
It started with Aydan on Monday. Grandma, Aydan, and I were supposed to go shopping on Monday but Aydan keeping throwing up anything, even juice! gooo. He was fine all evening, but again up in the middle of the night sick. He spent the day home with Grandma on Tuesday, not too bad of a day for him. But by Wednesday morning, Justin is now sick. : (
Aydan is better now, for the most part, still having trouble eating and not having gagging problems (which then would be maybe throwing up from that). And Justin is in recovery still, weak of course.
I wish both of my babies healthiness in the next week, so we are all ready when the baby comes!!

11 more days until the c-section!

Edit: Oh, did I mention Mowgly (the dog) is sick too. Took him to the vest today and he injuried his back somehow. He had to have 2 shots and get antibotics.... gezzzz.

37 weeks and 1 day

2011-02-21T17:37:00.000-08:00

I'm 37 weeks and 1 day today... whewwww. I'm tired. Tired of carrying around this belly. And the pains are now fairly uncomfortable. I'm way more uncomfortable at this stage with Emma, than I was with Aydan. gooo.

Baby news: The lungs are now fully developed enough so that she could survive outside my womb. The baby weighs about 6 and 1/2 lbs and around 19 in. Braxton Hicks contractions will be much more frequent now.

14 days.... almost about to be 13 days until the c-section.

Underpants!

2011-02-18T19:56:00.000-08:00

So.... I decided to bite the bullet yesterday and start Aydan in underpants. He has been using the potty for monthssssss now (with some breaks) but a bunch of people said just to put them in them and try it and they swear it works.
Thursday was his 1st day.. which was Grandma day. He had 2 accidents in the morning, dry for nap and then peed after nap. He was dry for me most of the evening, until the evening and then had 2 more accidents.. by then I was sooo tired, I just put him in his diaper.
Of course, dry through the night.. (which he almost always is).
Today.. he only had 1 accidents in the morning. Got wet during nap. And then good almost all night. I put a diaper on his because we were driving 30 min to out of town and then to dinner. He peed in diaper during dinner and he did it, looked up like a light bulb, and told me "oh ooo, I peed." Which is nice because he realized he did it and wasn't supposed to. Before he was only saying "oh oooo" to pooping in the diaper. Sooo maybe we're heading somewhere in the right direction.
Let's see how the next week goes!

Oh, and I must saw that he looks SO CUTE in his little underpants... Handy Manny and Thomas the Train!

In baby news: I have 17 days until my c-section date!!! My contractions are defintely much more and I have had a couple that felt more like labor pains.... so who knows how many more days it'll be. With my luck, I'll go into labor like 5 hours before my actually surgery, ha.

Valentine's Day- Date Night

2011-02-16T20:02:00.000-08:00

We had our Valentine's Date night tonight. The grandparents watched Aydan and Justin took me to see Just Do It with Jen Aniston and Adam Sandler. It was funny and I had a good time. I had some feets or arms in my right rib cage, which was uncomfortable, but still had a good time. We then grabbed some quick fast food and ran into Walmart for a couple things and headed home early to pick up our lil man.
All in all, I had a great Valentine's Day and got some beautiful flowers from Justin and Aydan on Monday!!

I choose a chocolate heart because that's all Emma is craving now : )

Enjoying the beautiful So. IL weather, oh and 36 weeks!

2011-02-13T15:02:00.000-08:00

We got some nice weather here this weekend. It was around 40 on Saturday and 50 on Sunday, with the sun shinig.
Saturday: I got up early and drove over to St. Louis (not easy to do this large) to meet Justin, who had rode with a friend the night before for a Blues game. We went out to the Mills mall and I went to Carter's (of course) and exchange some stuff and bought many new needed items for the baby and Aydan. We then got back over to IL side and Justin drove me to 2 craft stores!! so I could get some stuff I had been needing for projects! yay! These are some errands I had been wanting to do before the baby came, but didn't know if I would have time, so Saturday was nice.
Sunday: We went to church. Then came home and went outside. Justin and I cleaned out our cars and washed them, Aydan got to play outside for a couple hours, which resulting in a niccce long nap.... cabin fever had def been setting in here. We also blew leaves out of garage, Justin cleaned his grill, and I trimmed my grasses in the flower areas outside. Wore-out now!! But def nice getting to be outside and getting some stuff done.

22 days until c-day!

Couldn't remember if I posted my Emma letters once they got up.

Aydan playing outside.

Driving around in his car.

He decided to get down and walk in the water from washing our cars.

Wet, and going down the slide.

My 26 weeks picture.. hopefully my last picture : )

Cooking mess-up

2011-02-09T18:46:00.000-08:00

So, I caught an espisode of "Everyday Food" this past weekend (by accident) but it looked good and I decided I would try it. Got all the ingredients on Monday when I was in Mt Vernon for my Doc Appt. Was all excited to cook it tonight... but all did not go as planned. Got it all ready and then put it in the oven. As I'm pulling it out, I realize I didn't put the water in... and it has uncooked pasta and potatoes in it... so you can probably tell that they didn't cook : (
Dinner was RUINED! boo. I was just so distracted and forgot the water. Maybe next time I can try it again and get to actually taste it.
I tried.

Doctor's Appt- All good.

2011-02-07T18:18:00.000-08:00

Had a great check up today. It was my 35 week appointment. Heart beat was nice, size, etc was good too. I'm not down to an appointment every week, yay.. because that means I'm close.. but boo because I have to drive over to Mt. Vernon every week for it.

4 weeks from today/28 days or less until we're going to meet our little girl!

Aydan watched a Pingu espisode tonight about Pingu getting a baby sister named Pinga. He really watched and I think he understood some of it. Going to show him it some more and continue to talk to him about having a baby sister.

35 weeks.

2011-02-06T06:41:00.000-08:00

This was a long week... probably because we had a full week of school and no snow days, ha!
Weekly update: The baby is about the size of a honeydew melon... whatever that looks like. Most of basic physical development is done. She'll just spend the next weeks putting on weight (great huh). By the end of the week, should weigh around 6 pounds.

On my end, sleep is just not much fun. I'm tired, but still struggle through it. Between the going to the bathroom, getting up with Aydan, the crazy dreams, etc... I forgot what its like to sleep a full night. Someday though.

Yesterday, I did get maternity pictures taken. I'm pretty excited about it. I had wanted to do it this go around, something for myself to look back at and remember. I bought Aydan with me, so I could get a picture of him kissing the belly/aka his baby sister. And she shot some other good ones. I already got a sneek peek at one I really like.

Aydan helped with the blocks ;)

Random Thursday

2011-02-03T19:58:00.000-08:00

So, I have a few things I want to blog about but haven't taken pictures of, sooo today is just very Random!

*I have 32 days until my c-section date.
*Everytime I use the stairs, or do a lot of things that involve walking, but stomach contracts! gessshhh, let's see if this little one stays in until the 7th.
*I have finally started on Aydan's scrapbook of his first year.. got 1 pages done, but no the less, I have FINALLY started!
*The "Emma" letter are finally hung in her room, so the room is complete, just ready for her to get here.
*I have the baby bag packed and ready to go for the hospital, just need to pack mine now : )
*Everyone got a lot of snow this week, and we for once did not, yay!! We don't have to use any of our snow days at school this time. Plus I have about a billon things to get done in next month, before leave school for 2 months.
*Getting maternity pictures done on Saturday... with just me, Aydan, and my belly, hehe.. should be fun.

34 weeks... getting there.

2011-01-30T17:35:00.000-08:00

I'm 34 weeks. I have 5 weeks until my scheduled c-section and its starting to sound really close now.

Weekly update: Her central nervous system is maturing and her lungs are continuing to mature too. The babies space is not much, because it over 5 lbs and around 18 in long. The kidneys are fully developed now and can make some waste now (yuck!). Babies born after 34 weeks may have to spend some time in neo- to continue growing, but usually at this point you can deliver eariler and have no health issues.

I'm still doing well. Getting harder and harder to move around and putting on my socks are a mission, ha. Just going down the stairs and up makes my belly contract and become, as I call it hard as a rock! Its not comfy, I'll say that.

My newest beautiful picture! And I'm doing maternity pictures with Aydan and I next weekend... Just want a few of myself and one of Aydan kissing the belly/aka his baby sister!

Potty Training is NO FUN!

2011-01-29T20:47:00.000-08:00

We started potty training when Aydan was about 22 months old. Didn't push it, and he would potty sometimes when we put him on. He wasn't quite ready, so we let it go the summer he turned 2. Have started back up on it shortly after school started, but I think never pushed hard enough... he def able to do it, but still has had no motivation to tell us when he needs to go.
So.. in last few weeks (now that sooo close to another one in diapers) I have been pushing it. Tried some pull-ups, tried bugging him every 30 minutes asking him if he needs to go...
Now, in last 3 days.. I'm trying something new along with getting off my (very tired) bottom and putting him on it all the time and trying to catch the right times... trying the chart, sticker incentives. We have a chart on the wall, and everytime he potties he gets a sticker on the wall. After 10 stickers he gets a prize. Been doing it for 2 days and he has 7 stickers so he's close to 1st prize. I'll report back in a couple weeks and let you know how its going.

Also.. Grandma bought him some underwear (Handy Manny and Thomas). I have pulled out one tonight and showed him it.. he REALLY wanted to wear them.. but told him he had to be a big boy and start keeping dry during the day to wear them (he's already good at staying dry at night)... so hopefully this will help too.

???'s and Thoughts of a pregnant women...

2011-01-26T19:02:00.000-08:00

*Trying to stay comfortable and yet at the same time enjoy these last weeks being pregnant... because it will mostly likely be the last time I'm EVER pregnant in my lifetime. That's hard to do. Enjoy something that is so uncomfortable... I find it easiest to do when I'm stressed out and I look down at my belly and its moving on it own... I can't help but smile and laugh because it cute/weird and funny at the same time.

*What will the baby look like? Will Aydan be a mini-Justin and Emma a mini-me... : )

*How will my sweet little boy (momma's boy) deal with the new baby once she's here?

*Will she be as good of a baby and sleeper that Aydan was/is?

*I also think about how it go and run in the hospital this time. Stupid I know. But I can't help but think about it all and play it out in my head. And of course think about it when I'm trying to sleep, booo.

and finally of course....

*When will I sleep a full night with NO wake ups again?? hahaha, someday I know : )

40 days until the c-section!

In Need of a Massage!

2011-01-25T17:18:00.000-08:00

I am in need of a massage! I got a gift card for one from my friend Beth for Christmas, yay!! I've saved it for a day like now... when its much needed and I'm very uncomfortable and sore. I called today and I go next week for one, double yay!! Thanks Beth! I'm super excited!

33 weeks

2011-01-24T14:19:00.000-08:00

I had my check up today. The doctor said everything looked and sounded great. The baby's heartbeat is slowing down a little bit.. sounds more normal now :) In the early weeks the baby's heartbeat is super sonic fast, ha. I go back in 2 week and then I'm down to the last month, so its appts every week. :)
This week: Again, the skeleton is hardening, except the skull, because its still preparing for child birth and so can fit through the birth canal. Baby now weighs about 4 3/4 lbs., about like a cantaloupe. And is around 17.5 in long. She is getting more "rounder" everyday with the fattening. And the skin is now much smoother than ever.

I am tired more than ever lately and the nights are beginning to be very restless sleeps... between having to pee, her kicking and moving, Aydan occ waking up, and not being able to turn off my brain thinking about baby things to come.. I don't sleep much. Oh well, she's preparing me for when she comes.. then its not much sleep at all :)

48 days until due date. 42 days until c-section.

Visit from my Sis!

2011-01-23T15:27:00.000-08:00

My sister, Nikki, came to visit yesterday, and I had a lot of fun!!
We spent the day hanging out in Mt. Vernon... went to a re-sale kid shop (where we both found some cute new bows for Vivian and Emma), saw a movie.. No Strings Attached (super cute to anyone thinking about seeing it!), went to dinner, and played in Walmart for a bit. My sister said I'm a super fast Walmart shopping! That she had to go stand in one spot and look because I was making her dizzy running around... I told her that's how you shop with a 2 year old.. you make it quick and they don't get bored or restless!
Overall I really had a good time!! Wish she lived closer so we could do that once a week. It really was a treat because not too many people come down to the Mactown to visit!

"No matter how far apart we are, you are always with me Sis"

More Snow Days

2011-01-20T19:13:00.000-08:00

We had our 6th snow day today and we'll be having our 7th one tomorrow. So, we're offically teaching into June, boooo. Oh well I guess. 2 of them I was sick and I needed them. And the other ones have been nice days with Aydan and relaxing... since I'm getting more and more uncomfortable.
Hopefully tomorrow I won't be as tired and can get some stuff done.

52 days until my due date. 46 days until the c-section date. Its getting close!!

Today's Survery

2011-01-18T14:03:00.000-08:00

How far along: 32 weeks

Size of baby: Around 4-4.5 lbs

Total weight gain: Ha, did you think I was really going to tell you this! jk. At 32 weeks, I have gained 28 lbs.

Maternity clothes: def! In my bigger stuff. I have had to buy a winter coat this time around. I'm in my bigger stage at different seasons this time.. so don't have much. But trying not to buy much more this time.

Gender: Girl of course!

Movement: Yes, plenty! She holds her feet and slides them down into my slide all day long.

Sleep: Some nights, its good... some nights its bad. Hard to get comfortable and hard to re-position in the middle of the night.

What I miss: My normal body and the clothes I used to fit in! Walking normal, instead of waddling. A glass of wine :) Sleeping a full night without having to get up and pee.

Cravings: Chocolate... its came on the last month and won't leave.. goo..

Best Moment of the week: We took 3 family naps this weekend, Sat, Sun, and on our Mon off! Oh, and Aydan learning how to catch!

32 weeks... definite growth :)

2011-01-16T17:34:00.000-08:00

When Emma has definitely grown, ha. You can tell from the picture. Again she should be around 4 lbs by now, maybe bigger. She could be up to 16-17 in long already. She has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (as we saw in the sono!). Her skin is becoming soft, as she loses the wrinkly look.
Today I saw my belly moving on its own during church.. ha, its so funny to watch. It made me smile. (and kinda alien like too :)
7 weeks until the C-Day (section day). Great, because its already getting hard to put socks on, move, sleep comfy, sit and move at school (my kids are great, if i drop something, they get it in a hurry, they understand that bending over is not easy), etc. Still getting around ok though and staying positive about the big belly :)

Yup, she's growing, bigger than the last 2 week pic

Up close

Another onesize I made. So cute, gotta keep this one for me and my girl

10 things I learned this pregnancy vs. the last one!

2011-01-14T14:20:00.000-08:00

1. They tell you every pregnancy is different.. yes, but really no. Soooo much of this one is just like the last one. I had no sickness in the beginning hardly. I'm tired throughout the whole thing pretty much. And I'm uncomfortable the last 3-4 months, ha!

2. Girl baby kick way more than boy babies! At least for me!

3. Both my babies like to hang out with their heads in my belly button/ribs. 2 breech babies, yay! (unless little girl moves in next few weeks)

4. I am hiding a lot of my "baby weight" in my legs/butt this time. I heard this is because the weight stinks faster the 2nd time, ha. I'm going to have a lot of stairs to climb after the baby to rid the weight, ha.

5. Being pregnant while having a kid at home is way more tiring, than without a kid at home. Espically a
toddler!!! You're always chasing around the little more, while having another little one swimming in your belly.

6. I am somehow bothered this time by all the people saying, "wow, you grown lately." This is not a compliment to a pregnant women... why not just say, "wow, you're gotten fat!"

7. I prefer to be in sweatpants and a t-shirt all day long, everyday!! Didn't mind dress clothes the 1st go around, this time... comfort is a MUST!

8. Last time went sooo fast. I didn't find out until I was 4 mon pregnant. Then we got married.. had 2 months to get everything.. then moved into a new house.. then had 1 1/2 to set up house and then baby was here.. it flew by!! This time, found out at 1 month... nothing huge going on this time.. so now at almost 8 months, it feels like an eternity.

9. I am some days scared about missing being pregnant.. because this is going to be our last one. But some days.. can't wait for her to come out and meet us. Such mixed emotions. gooo.

10. It doesn't matter how many kids I have.... I will always be scared of having the baby again. I will always fear getting the spinal in my back. And I'm sure I'm cry this time again :(

31 weeks and 2 days.

2011-01-11T08:59:00.000-08:00

Well this is a day late, but I had some complacations last night. I was sick, boo. I felt uncomfortable all day yesterday. My belly was sore and she was moving enough to make me in a lot of pain. Then we got to our doctor's appointment and we had to wait a long time. We were used to it with our doctor at his old office, but at this new office, I've never had to wait longer than 10-15 min to get it. Yesterday we waited an hour and a half. The lights were off when we came out of sono. Niccce, real nice huh. And the 5 people who came in after us somehow were gone already. We then went to Walmart to food shop. By the time we got our of there, I was going downhill. Got home, had the achy feeling, temp.. and was sick an hour later. Temp of 103. Not cool for a women almost 8 months pregnant.
Feeling a little better today. We're out for a snow day. And I had to send my baby to his babysitter so not to get him sick. Didn't really get to see him yesterday, so I miss him already.

Doctor's Appointment: Things checked out ok. Heartbeat was good. She did not want to cooperate for the 4-D sono though. She was holding her feet in her hands up by her face.. so getting a good picture didn't really happen. She is breech, just like Aydan was at this point. She also opened her mouth a couple times and had her hands on her forehead. Nurse says she probably around 4 lbs.

If you look closely you can see her arm holding her foot up : )

We tentively have a date for the c-section. March 7th!!! Doctor said we should be able to set the date offically at our next appointment.

Also, we picked up the rug yesterday, yay! I like it.. little more yellow than expected, the picture online showed it as more yellow/white, but its still nice.

Aydan hit a growth spurt

2011-01-09T17:47:00.000-08:00

Aydan tells me last Tuesday, "Mommy, shirt too small!" lol. And yes, it was getting quite tight. The next day the long sleeve t-shirt I put on him was short on his arms. So... it was time to take Aydan on a mini shopping spree to get through the rest of the cold weather this winter.
Grandma, Aydan, and I hit St. Louis up for the day. Aydan of course was a good boy.. even for a "on the move" 2 year old, he's a good shopper! :) The day was a success and he got some new clothes and got his 1st real experience of getting new shoes.. they measured his foot and everything! He got a ballon for it, he was pretty excited!
(His little sister on the way, even got some new cute outfits!)

Also, I'm 31 weeks today, yay! I'll up date more tomorrow after my doctor's appointment!

The room is defintely coming together

2011-01-07T19:48:00.000-08:00

Grandpa came over yesterday and got most of the things on the walls in the baby's room. The only thing missing is the wooden letters spelling her name. We have it all ready now.. and some time in the next week the hooks for those will go up too. The rug has came in too, just haven't picked it up, doing that Monday after my appt. I'm pretty happy with the way the room is turning out. Acutally, shortly after I took the pictures I put Aydan's old mobile up on the bed, so all the room is missing is the baby, lol.

This is the storage cubes and the hats/jacket rack. And Aydan's old basket for stuffed animals.

Here is the new toy basket next to chair (I like that!). The curtains will be different soon, just tan colored.

Love my floating shelves. Just need a couple frames to put up and those will be set!

My bow/hair assc holder, I'm pretty proud of this.. the picture doesn't do it justice!

The crib of course! And all the soft blankets mommy's has gotten for ther. :) Also love the mirror. The EMMA wooden letter will go to the left of the mirror.

Oh, and 65 days left. I'm 31 weeks on Sunday, and my 3-D Sono on Monday, yay!

Meanwhile Aydan likes to try and climb up on the crib.. only 1 spot to put his feet and it just barely lets his head peak over the crib.. and he looks in, its pretty cute. Plus I think he likes to look at the next music/picture screen in her bed!

My new Sewing Machine!

2011-01-04T17:38:00.000-08:00

I got a new sewing machine from my Hood parents... and I'm loving getting to learn how to use it. It's defintely a learning process, but I think I'll be a pro in no time, hehe! I got to spend some time Sunday morning working with it.... with a couple mess ups due to me and due to Aydan crawling under my chair.. I managed to get a couple projects finished.

1st I got a bag done and a bib (the theme is Cardinals, they're fans too) for a shower gift. (Note: the letters were not embroided on, they were iron-ons.. so I did that and then sewed them on so won't come off during wash). In the end, I was super happy with it.

This one is a onesize I made for Emma (our baby girl on the way).

I have quite a few others ones I have either started or ready to start... just need to buy some black thread! More fun projects on the way.

The family goes to see the new SIUC stadium

2011-01-03T18:12:00.000-08:00

They re-did the basketball stadium last year, but we didn't get to any games. This season I def wanted to get there. Saturday, New Years Day, was the perfect day for an afternoon game! We took Aydan to the game, and to be honest he really wasn't into that day, he was having more fun doing up and down the seats because we we're in a less busy area. He did watch a little bit and did dance a bit (we were trying to get him on the jumbo tron... didn't work).
For my other SIUC alumi.. the stadium is really really nice. It feels more like a college stadium, instead of high school basketball gym now. New seats! New 4-sided jumbo tron! New "team store" for SIU clothing! You get the point, all new stuff, looks really good.. I was impressed.

Watching the game

The big shot view

Crying.. of course

Better now, cause Mom is there

You can't tell in this picture, but he's laying across seat and watching game.. cute, my little future Saluki

30 week mark...

2011-01-02T14:23:00.000-08:00

The 30 week mark is here. Feeling good. Can def feel the "getting big" feelings, ha. Harder to move around and get into tight little spots that I used to be able to do.
Baby progress: Eyesight continues to improve, not great yet and after she's born she open her eyes gradually so that they can adjust to the light. (When born babies can only see things a few in. from face until eyesight improves over time). The baby should def be growing to over 3 lbs this week. And she can turn her head from side to side. : ) They also say the Braxton Hicks could start now and the tightening of the muscles, ha.. I've had that for weeks! (nothing alarming though yet, thankfully)
I go in for my 3-D sono next week, so we'll get to see her 1 more time on the tv screen befroe she's born and they can measure weight so far.

My lovely 30 week picture (right after a nap, so extra beautiful!).

Family night at the Blues game, take 2

2010-12-29T19:44:00.000-08:00

As you may have read before that we went to a Blues hockey game last month and my phone was lost/stolen. So, we had take 2 at it last night again. We had an excellent dinner at Shogun, yummy sushi!!! Then we went to the Blues game. Aydan had a blast! And so did Mommy and Daddy. The Blues won, which is always an added bonus! (esp against the Blackhawks) No phone were taken.. we even came out with everything I went in with.. including a new shirt for Mom and a new hat for Aydan!!
Fun Family night out!

Aydan is very into the game... he loves going to see the Blues... he says "Go Blues!"

And of course you can't go see the game and no get Popcorn!

74 DAYS until my due date.

29 weeks

2010-12-26T18:48:00.000-08:00

I'm 29 weeks today and feeling good. I had a fun filled shopping day with Mama Hood today. Aydan was a trooper and we got some things needed checked off my list, yay!
Baby update: It says this week its important to start getting more iron, calcium, and protein. Its important to start paying attention to kicks and let doctor know if anything changes a lot. It said the baby could be around 15 and a half in long now and weighs around 3 lbs.
I also have my doctor's appointment tomorrow! My 3-D sono in 2 weeks from tomorrow, double yay!

Merry Christmas to All!! and Aydan's 3rd Christmas

2010-12-25T19:49:00.000-08:00

This was a fun year for Chrismtas! Aydan really got into it all and can now open his own presents! yay, mom and dad don't have to anymore! He really did have a good time this year and enjoyed all the lights, decorations, presents, trees, etc. Which in turn, made it fun for Mom and Dad this year.
We had some friends over Christmas Eve morning. Followed by a good nap. Then we went over to Grandma and Grandpa Hoods for Christmas Eve. We did presents, went to communion, had a excellent dinner, and then did more presents. Aydan was worn out when we got home and sleep good! Christmas day we went over to grandparents again for brunch, yummy and some relaxing time. Then followed by a great family nap! yay! What a great Christmas.
Next year we will have our whole family with us... Aydan and our new baby girl on the way.

Aydan in his adorable Christmas sweater.

Aydan opening Plato!

Christmas morning! Santa time.

Opening his stocking! Thomas time.

Aydan's New Big Boy Room!!

2010-12-22T19:40:00.000-08:00

Aydan big boy bed came today!!! He was excited. (wasn't happy he couldn't play with his trains while they were setting up, but yet still happy). Once it was put up he got on it and started jumping. He doesn't care about the dresser, but what 2 year old would. I love how both of them look now that they're in there and I think he really really likes his bed.

Here's some of my many pictures I took to mark this big event!

His last picture in his bed playing

He didn't want to get out. He didn't know what was happening.

His new toy, Alphie. Let him open it while they were setting it up to distract him.

The bed up!

Bed is up and all made.. ready to go for Aydan.

The room all together. Its a little tight, but its just fine with Aydan.

Playing tools in his new bed... how could anyone sleep when there's playing to do.

All tucked in.. night night big boy!

Christmas Sweater Party

2010-12-21T19:19:00.000-08:00

Well the 2nd annual Christmas party was a success. The ones who came last year, had better ones this year. The new-bees didn't quite get it yet. Next year should bring in some interesting sweaters. I hoping to see someone have one that plays music or have lights on it. yes!! That would be an instant win! It was a good time with good friends.
We also did our family Christmas with the Suchomski's/Pyle's this weekend. My neice, Vivian, came to play with Aydan... which I think he really enjoyed. He keeps saying "find Vivian." My sister, Dad, Nancy (his new wife) and 2 of my new step-brothers came too. It was a good weekend. I wish I could have seen all my family this year or that they lived closer... maybe in years to come!

My sis and I at the party.

Almost all the participating contestants in Ugly Sweaters!

Aydan and Vivian playing trains!

In Baby world. She's really wearing out mama. On days like today at school, where I had to be on my feet a lot! My tummy was sore and rock hard by the time I got home. Had some R and R with Aydan when I got home, which was nice. OH, and 82 until my due date.

28 weeks!! Some days feel like 20, some like 40, ha

2010-12-19T15:32:00.000-08:00

Hello 3rd Trimester!!
Of course, I'm tired... but I've been tired already, so now its just more tiredness, ha. She preparing me for the non-sleep that will happen once she's born. I am also now down to my 2 week appt. So I go back right after Christmas. Then go back again the 2nd week in Jan for my 3-D sono. The doctor I saw last also said we could probably schedule my c-section at 32 weeks, so we'll see.
This week: She is developing billion of neurons in her brain and adding more body fat (aka baby fat) in preparation for life in the outside world! The Baby nows weighs about 2 1/2, like a butternut squash :) And around 15 in long. Her head is also growing, to make more room for the developing brain.
She'll still kicking a lot. She's a mover. She actually managed to keep me up most of the night Friday night. gooo. We did just finish a family nap, which was awesome.. and much needed after not much sleep this weekend. I have just 2 days of sleep this week before our 1 and a half Christmas break.

Here's my newest picture. Our light in our room is broken, so did it in the other babies room. You can see Aydan new mattress in front for his new bed that's on the way.

Aydan came in for some belly hits while trying to do this. ha. Had to put it up.

Some of my Projects.

2010-12-14T14:30:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of finished projects for the babies room.

1st the picture I painted. I was going to show it after hung it, but waiting on the proper backing to hang it.. and since was taking pictures of other things... decided just to take this picture too! Its just laying on the bed right now. Its a water lily.. minus the water.. but I like how it turned out!

2nd the... bow/hair ties/hat holder. Its cork board I painted white. So there are hooks at the bottom and its cork to pin anything else on I want. There is also pink ribbon around the edges. I really like how this turned out.. its simple and yet going to useful.. I'm sure it'll look fuller when can actually hang it.

Here are some of the headbands I got online. I'm not big on the big bows.. but definitely do like something pretty for them. I was super impressed with this set I got too. They are Super super soft and not tight on the head.. so should be comfy for her.

And lastly. Something else I didn't make, but that's ok. Its pretty! Its a burp cloth.

Oh, and 89 days til my due date.

27 weeks and 1 day.

2010-12-13T12:47:00.000-08:00

I had my appointment today. I did my glucose test. It went well. The babies heartbeat was good and strong. Everything checked out good with the baby and me!
As for the baby: She around 2 lbs. or more by now. Comparable to a Chinese Caggage, ha. And somewhere around 14-15 in long. The baby's brain is very active now. A lot of rhythmic movement could now just be the hiccups. (I think I just feel her kicking and doing summer-salts more than anything!) She can aslso now blink her eyes, which have eyelashes. She may even be able to see the light that filters through the womb now.
Here's the technical picture of what's going on. hehe. :)

Aydan visits Santa and our 1st snow

2010-12-12T07:44:00.000-08:00

Aydan went to see Santa yesterday morning! They had a fundrasier here in town at the Union Hall, called "Karing for Kids." You go eat breakfast and see Santa. All money goes to taking children to go get clothes and things they need.
Since Aydan cried last year and wouldn't sit on Santa's lap, I didn't know what would happen this year. He did much better this year. We hung out, ate, let him watch numerous other kids go and see Santa to get used to it. When came his turn.. he walked up with me, and starting walking slower when a few feet away. I had to pick him up and put him on Santa's lap. Santa came him a candy cane, which then allowed us to get a picture. Oh, and he also told Santa he wanted Handy Manny for Christmas, yay!

It is also snowing right now here for the 1st time this year. It took until December 12th for it to snow, but its really coming down today. There must be 1-2 inches out there already, and still a little more to come. Probably try and get Aydan out to play in it today!

Also in baby news. 91 days left, yay! And I'm 27 weeks today. Baby update tomorrow after my doc appt.

Daddy's 1st baby girl shopping trip

2010-12-10T18:47:00.000-08:00

Justin was in Chicago for his State's Att. Conference this week. He knows I love Carter's for baby clothes and now anytime he goes shopping without me, he always goes in there to get stuff for Aydan, and now the baby girl on the way.
I must say after he said he bought the little girl some clothes I was very interested to see what he would pick out. I'd say it was a success and I was proud of him!

1st pick:

A pink and brown cheetah print sleeper. This is adorable! Also, very adorable because its one of the two things I picked out from there when I stopped in a month ago. We think alike! Unfotuntely we bought the same size, so I'm going to take it back and get the next size up!

2nd pick:

This outfit set is the cute pants (of course, that's why featured in pic), also came with short sl onesize and long sl onesize. Cute.. it'll be one of the 1st purple things for her!

3rd pick:

This is a pj set. Its cute. Not my favorite. Only problem is the size will have this set for the summer time. So we'll just exchange the size for her to wear it in the fall instead of the summer.

Over all, this little girl's daddy did GOOD! Before we know it, he'll be putting pony tails in and bow on top! :)

Aydan's Christmas Outfit

2010-12-09T14:13:00.000-08:00

Aydan had the cutest Christmas outfit last year from Grandma from Janie and Jack with penguins on it. So... this year Grandma found it again!!! Its a penguin with a top hat! Aydan will look just adorable this year. Pictures to come after Christmas of course.

Aydan goes to Candy Cane Lane w Grandma and Mommy!

2010-12-07T18:53:00.000-08:00

Tonight we took Aydan to see Candy Cane Lane in Wet Frankfort and he had a blast! The characters he saw and recognized and said their name out loud: Mickey Mouse, Star Wars, Head (which is potato head), Lighting McQueen, Mator (tamator from Cars), Santa, Buzz Lightyear, Snoopy, and many others. He kept saying "Mama, More!" every time the car moved on to see more. And when we were done, he just kept saying "More, More, More." So, I'd say he had a good time tonight... too bad the lane doesn't last longer! There's always next year!

The pictures are kinda crummy, but I forgot my camera and this was the best I could do in a moving car.

26 weeks...

2010-12-05T19:06:00.000-08:00

I'm now 26 weeks. New baby developments this week. She can now not only hear me, but hear Justins voice too.. and hear our conversations. She will be reaching 2 lbs very soon (or I believe her to be 2 lbs already, a little ahead of the game). She is now sleeping and waking in intervals, could be sucking her thumb, and opening and closing her eyes.
I am 98 days from my due date!

I made a lot of progress on my painting this weekend. The flower is done, just have the lily pad and water to do. Also got some other items in... the lid for the hamper (had a problem when the hamper came, no lid :( and the piggy bank (looks just like Aydan's, only in blue), and the cork boards to make a hair ribbon/bow holder! Lots more projects to do!

This is my newest belly pictues..

Delayed Thanksgiving pictures

2010-12-04T08:40:00.000-08:00

Aydan thinking his a baby again. We brought his over for his 6 month old cousin.. and he climbed in, ha.

Aydan showing Avalinn how his trains work

Mom and Dad eating dinner

Aydan and Avalinn eating breakfast

Posing Aydan and Avalinn in front of tree for a Christmas picture

Baby Survery time.

2010-11-29T18:29:00.000-08:00

I found a cute baby survery... deciding to finally do one. If anyone has any other cute ones... let me know (aka probably Heather, why did you find your format?)
I also added a baby countdown ticker... 104 days left to go. When said like that it said huge! ha.

About the mommy:
Name: Marcy
Age: 28
Is this the first child?: Nope. I have a beautiful little boy, named Aydan

About the daddy:
Name: Justin
Age: 31
Is this the first child?: See my answer above :)

About the pregnancy:
When is your due date?: March 13th
How far along are you right now?: 25 weeks
Have you had an ultra sound?: Yes, 2 of them.
Have you heard the heartbeat?: Yes, at every appointment! Its so special every time.
Sex of the baby: Girl!!
What do you want. Boy or Girl?: A girl, wanted one of each, and we are very lucky to get that.
Are you happy with what you are having?: Definitely. I wanted one of each. I think Justin is more happy with it as time goes. He's happy that I'm happy and that I won't bug him for another one. :)

About the birth:
Who is going to be with you?: Just Justin and the other 6 doctors/nurses, ha.

Are you going to video tape it?: Nope. Even if I wanted to its not allowed.

Do you think you will have a c-section?: Yup. Aydan was, so we will be having one this time too. So that means the spinal again, cath, etc.... yuck yuck. But she'll have a perfect shaped head!

Do you think you will cry when you first hold your baby?: Most likely. I was sooo tired when I finally got Aydan and had cried during most of surgery getting him out, so I was good once held him.. I believe the same will happen. It's just too hard to sleep the night before having a baby.

Do you know what you will say to the baby when you first hold her?: I love you!

Are you scared about the labor?: Nope. Scared of the spinal. And scared I will go into labor before go to planned c-section and then will have emg one.

Names:
Do you have a name picked out?: We have one... I'd say we're 99% sure. I'm ready to start putting the name of stuff, so probably going to be 100% sure very soon. Emma Jane Hood!

Is your baby going to be named after anyone?: Nope, that's the way I like it. It fits Justin and I and that's it.

Did the daddy help pick the name?: Yes, he picked the middle name.

Other random questions:
Have you felt the baby move?: Oh, my goodness yes.... lots lots.

What was your first symptom?: No period.

Will you have godparents?: Yes

What is the baby's room theme?: Yellow, pink, white, and brushed nickel... No theme exactly.

Are you ready to be a mommy?: Yes. I think Aydan would say I'm a pretty good one. Am I ready to be taking care of 2! eeekkk. haha. jk. Of course I am. I believe I can handle it.

What do you think the baby will be a "daddys girl/boy" or a "mommys girl/boy"?: Well Aydan is a Mommy's boy as of now. We'll see... of course I hope a mommy's girl :)

25 weeks...about 65% of the way there.

2010-11-28T07:51:00.000-08:00

25 weeks there. Not much to update on the baby. Just that the baby is around 14 in long this week and the weight is a little more than a lb and a half. She's also going a lot of hair this week.

Aydan meanwhile is repeating every word you say! If he can sound it out, he'll say it! So mommy and daddy are watching what they say and watch on tv in front of him. It's really cool to see his vocab skyrocket though.. he's so smart.

I'm also going to being working on a painting a picture of a flower on a canvas this week for the baby's room. Picture to come as soon as I'm done!

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-26T19:38:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was great!! Justin and I have a lot to be thankful for this year: eachother, Aydan, our baby girl on the way, our wonderful families and friends, and all the good food we ate that day! Oh, and p.s. the fact that I could still fit in my pre-pregnancy jeans (granted they were buttoned w a hair-tie, but that's just details) to wear that day, yay... cause not much longer will that happen.
I hope everyone else had a great Thanksgiving!!

Lauren got some cute pictures of Aydan with his cousin Avalinn, once she gets them to me.. I'll post one.

Other baby updates: she growing, growing, and growing. Oh, and moving all the time! Especially when I eat! Got her some goodies on Black Friday: an idock for her music, a lamp, and some cute clothes!

This break has been nice to have some days with Aydan!!!! Hope everyone else is enjoying them too.

24 weeks!

2010-11-21T17:52:00.000-08:00

It feels like yesterday we saw our little girl for the first time and they told me I was 7 weeks along. The last 17 weeks have gone by fairly fast. And in less than 16 weeks we will get to meet her, yay!!
This week I have continued to sort through Aydan's clothes, wash stuff, hang some, and store some back that we won't need for awhile. Aydan's bed rail for his new bed came, its cute and he keep trying to play with it and store his tools in it. The office is coming along towards being an office/guest bedroom. Grandpa got the bookcase out and painted the wall behind it. yay! Huge relief. I had parent teacher conferences this weeks so didn't get much else done.

Baby progress: The baby is now anywhere from 13-15 in long. And weighs about 1 1/2 lbs (the weight is compared to a rubtabaga, which is a yellow Sweedish turnip). This week the brain is continuing to grow quickly and taste buds are continuing too. The lungs are developing branches of the respiratory lines, as well as the cells that help the air sacs inflate once she's out in the world. Her skin is still thin and translucent, but it will start to change soon too. She will also start turning the lean little body in for some baby fat!

Feeling ok this week. Only one bad evening. Little girl decided she would kick me/move around every 15 seconds or so Thursday night, when I had 4 hours of parent conference. So... by the time I got done I felt like I was going to throw up. When I got home and laid down Justin came over to feel her move.. felt around 20 strong kicks and replied "She is punting your stomach!"... I said, I know!

Same profile I've done every week.

Did this one with shirt over the belly, because I think you can see the roundness my belly is doing with shirt over it a little more. Wearing a pre-baby tank top. Yup, she's a growing.

And here's Aydan all tucked in bed while I was taking pictures.. watch Dora of course!

My newest wall design

2010-11-19T19:37:00.000-08:00

I have wanted to put something up on the wall in our living room for awhile now. I found this one awhile ago too, but never ordered it. Once we found out we were having another baby I never I would want a saying for her room. So I ordered them both together. This one is in our living room and I thought the saying was so fitting because its our sitting, playing, and hanging out area all in one. I am so happy with it now that its up and love IT!!

Staying busy busy busy

2010-11-17T18:39:00.000-08:00

I had my 6 month appt (23 weeks tech) on Monday. Everything checked out ok and the baby is doing good. She moving a LOT! I go back in 4 weeks for my sugar test, yummy.. its a really nasty orange drink.

I've been continuing to go through Aydan's clothing.. a HUGE project in itself! But I feel as if I'm making head way in the crates downstairs finally.

I got the Christmas tree put up.. yes I know, its EARLY, but we are staging it to take a family picture next to it on Saturday for our Christmas cards. I even wrapped presents to put under in for the picture. We all have nice new sweaters (except Mowgly) and its going to look great!

I ordered Aydan new bedding and bed rail for his new twin bed. Pictures to come when his bed comes in. My little man is growing up into a Big Boy Bed, its crazy.

Lots more to do in next few weeks, espically before Christmas... goo, I better get moving!

Daddy's 1st kicks!!

2010-11-14T06:40:00.000-08:00

Last night baby girl was moving and kicking like crazy when I got into bed, like usual. I put my hand on my stomach and decided I thought I was fianlly feeling it on the outside too. So I put Justin's hand on my belly and sure enough he could feel it and strong too! He got to feel about 10 good movements before she calmed down and lay still. He was so excited and so was I!! It was a good night!!

Other good news I'm 23 weeks today! Last month of the 2nd trimester. She is contining to hear sounds from the "outside" world now! Loud noises become familar.. such as me teaching loud so my kids can hear me over the fans and vent, Mowgly barking, and Aydan banging on stuff! She's probably just a little more than a pound now! And about 1 foot long, they compare her to an ear of corn this week.. hummm. :)

Play day with Aydan

2010-11-11T16:45:00.000-08:00

Well we had today off because of the great work our Vets do... so we decided to spend the day playing with Aydan.
1st we spent most of the morning with Aydan throwing all his balls down the stairs and Justin throwing them back up to him. He enjoyed it greatly!
2nd we took Aydan to see the new kid movie, MegaMind

Aydan enjoyed himself. Ate some popcorn. And was pretty tired on the way home!

He naped and then 3rd got to play outside. He enjoyed a plastic set of bowling balls he got from his birthday party. Of course he didn't want to come inside for dinner because he had tooooo much fun today!!

It was a good family day!

My Dad's wedding

2010-11-10T12:49:00.000-08:00

My dad got re-married this weekend to a very lovely lady named Nancy. We went to Champaign for the wedding. It was a fun weekend! I got to visit with my Dad's brothers and sister and tell them all about the new baby to come and they got to see Aydan again, which was good. (the yearly re-union isn't often enough). The ceremony was nice and my dad's best friend gave a nice speech about what a great person my dad is!!

I got to see my sister Carmen a lot which is always nice because she lives so far away. I also got to see my mother that weekend, which I haven't seen in over a year, which is nice too. I really enjoyed my visits this weekend!!! I was tired when I got home, but it was all worth it.

Also, on the way home, I stopped in the Carter's at Tuscola... here's 1 goodie I found on sale.... super cute!! A little mini-dress!

22 weeks and 1 day!

2010-11-08T17:58:00.000-08:00

I am a couple weeks past the half way point which feels nice! My back however does not! boo.. I don't have to do much and my lower back kills and pinches like heck. This week the pancreas is developing nicely. The eyes have formed, but still lack pigment. The baby is still about 1 pound big, maybe more and around 11 in long. About the size of a mango! This little girl is also moving like crazy lately! She definitely a mover!
Here's my newest picture.

My uppercase living for the baby's room and the living room came in. Here is the new addition for the baby's room! Whatca think?

And on my way home from Champaign this weekend I popped into Carter's and picked out some soft adorable blankets for our little bundle! Can't wait to snuggle her in them!!
Note- picture kinda makes them look like towels.. they're not. I'll post some new outfits I got too this week!

Cookies, Cookies, and more Cookies

2010-11-04T19:56:00.000-07:00

I got a wild hair to make my mom's famous sugar cookies. Thought right before I go see my family up north I'd make them and bring some up. I made some for people here in Mcleansboro, mainly my friend Beth.. who loves them and its her bday on Sat! I'm bringing up plenty for my dad's rehershal dinner too.
As you can see from the picture, I made a lot. I always double the recipe and it makes a lot! Which is nice, because they are good!

Here comes Thomas the Train... choo choo

2010-11-03T19:27:00.000-07:00

Aydan has been sick, as I've mentioned, so he finally got to go trick or treating tonight. He was Thomas the Train for Halloween. He got to go to Grandma and Grandpa Hoods house. Then he went to the Grays. He of course always has a good time playing there and so he really didn't want to go home.
I am proud of him because he kept on his costume for the walk up to both houses and had a smile on his face on doing it. He got some cool treats, what a lucky boy!!

21 weeks and Water Painting

2010-10-31T17:21:00.000-07:00

The baby is now the size of a carrot and working its way up to a whole pound. The baby's eyelids and eyebrows are now present and her "who who" is know forming.
I'm feeling movement all the time now, and Justin is now anxious to start feeling her move now too!! A few more weeks at least unfortuntely.
As she works to 22 weeks old... she will now start looking like a "minature newborn" soon. Lips and tiny tooth buds below the gums are forming.
Moving along. She's a growing and moving a lot!

We also got her, her 1st outfit this week. We got her a pink Cardinals onesize, super cute! We got a couple pink gift outfits too, they're hanging in her closet already. I'm also working on a painting for her room, got the canvas painting. Pictures to come when finished.

1st outfit from Mom and Dad

Aydan painted last night.. he's getting a little bit of cabin fever being sick

Him being super cute!

Another ear infection.. booo (literally, because its Halloween)

2010-10-30T11:56:00.000-07:00

Aydan went a year without getting an ear infection, then in his 2nd year he only got 1 or 2. Now since he's been 2, he's had 2 already now, boooo. I picked my poor baby up from daycare on Friday afternoon with a temp of 103.5. He has an ear infection in his left ear and he has a red sore throat. i feel so bad for him because I can't help him except hugs and love.
He's been in good spirits though.. but he's still puny and the meds only keep his temp down to 100 or so. It'll all be gone soon, but its bad timing. Trick or Treating is tonight, so it looks like Aydan will be doing his treating in a couple days.
After we stick something in his ear to look, this is the face we get.... well, once the tears stop.

Let the nesting begin!

2010-10-27T19:06:00.000-07:00

Tonight I conquered one of my big projects. I cleaned out office downstairs! We are moving out the big shelves we have in there and putting them in our storage room. Eventually I will then organize the storage area of downstairs and go through all the crates of Aydan's stuff. Then around Christmas time after Aydan's new bed and dresser come, we will move our guest bed down into the office! Just a chain circle of getting ready for the new baby to come!
I will get back to you when the storage area gets done.

20 weeks (5 months) and a half along.

20 weeks and 1 day!

2010-10-25T17:13:00.000-07:00

Today I'm 20 weeks and 1 day. I'm excited to be past the half way point, but also want to enjoy these last weeks being pregnant, and want to enjoy my time with Aydan before our daughter comes along.
At my 19 week check-up: Was doing good. Had only gained 8 lbs so far... Aydan is def keeping me moving around and on my feet. In this 2nd portion of the pregnacy I really do need to walk when I can make time. He said the heartbeat was good and strong.
Now at 20 weeks, I'm feeling tons of movement, usually while we're in the car, which can make it a little uncomforable already. The baby is the size of a banana already.
We've also started to talk about names. I believe we have come to a final decision on the 1st name... Emma! We have a couple middle names we are pondering, but i think we will finalize something in the next few weeks for sure. This mom is ready to start some nesting soon, aka, decorating some fun girl stuff and need the names to help with that too :)

Definitely some changes happening!

Family night gone bad....

2010-10-24T18:54:00.000-07:00

The evening was mostly awesome! It started out with a fun time at the Blues hockey game. Aydan really enjoyed himself. He got spoiled and got to have popcorn too. There were some exciting moments in the game too, even some small fights.
But then during the 3rd period I went to the bathroom with Aydan, left my phone in there, came back 5 minutes later, and it was gone!! And this dis-honest person took it and didn't turn it in or try to return it. This is pretty much what I did when all this happened....

Had to go through a long process on Sat trying to sign up with new phone company and shuting down old one. Now have a crappy loaner phone til mid week, when my new phone comes in. It just all stinks, lost pictures of Aydan and lists of things in my memo that I needed. Oh well, I guess. I will have to learn to be better with my things I guess. Kids on the brain can do crazy things too though.

All and all, the game was fun and Aydan really enjoyed himself!!

Our baby girl's 2nd picture.

2010-10-21T15:41:00.000-07:00

Here is our fridge's newest picture!! I know its kinda small, but it's one I had on my phone. I have felt a lot more movement in the last couple days, its crazy to feel all that again... but a good crazy.
The top picture is a side profile one and the bottom is the face and arm all bunched up.

We have been talking to Aydan about him having a sister the last few days. I know he doesn't quite understand, and may not until she gets here, but its good for him to here about it.
On other note, he's still enjoying his train table, a lot!
We have also been working on colors and lot with him lately and he's getting really good. Give it another month and he'll be able to say them all and recognize them! I'm so proud of him all the time!

It's a girl!!

2010-10-18T17:31:00.000-07:00

So... we found out the big new today and its a girl!! We're pretty excited. I have the best boy ever and now I'm sure we'll have the best girl ever to complete our family! She's doing good and healthy so far! She weighs about 11 oz right now and was showing us all sides of her beautiful face.
Other fun facts going on this week that I found online: The senses are developing and booming off. About the size of a large tomato. Kindneys are functioning.

Very good day!

Aydan's new train table!!

2010-10-14T19:38:00.000-07:00

Aydan's birthday train table came and grandpa put it together today!! Aydan has been in train heaven all day. He hasn't left his room much. He loves his train and loves the track that Dad set up on it to play with. Here are just a few shots from today. On the floor he was setting up some road signs.
I have a feeling that this is going to be something his will always love and have a blast playing with!

Also, the "wall art" in the back is the Where the Wild Things Are stickers.... he loves them.. he just "Max!"

Kristie and Jr's wedding

2010-10-12T14:09:00.000-07:00

Well the weekend was totally tiring... but totally worth it because it was a lot of fun. Friday rehearsal went well. Aydan did as asked there (and only there, ha). Dinner at Biaggi's that night was really good! And there was touching speeches from everyone.
Saturday started early with hair... and then onto pictures at the club and some of the best chicken salad sandwich. The photographer was awesome!! Kenny Kim was a great guy to work with. Then of course off to the wedding. Krisite looked beautiful in her beautiful dress!!!! Aydan didn't do his job that day, but everyone got a kick out of him and thought he was cute though. The wedding went well and the reception was a blast. I did probably way too much dancing, but it was worth it. All and all the day was a lot of fun and I wish my friends a happy married life. Some pictures from the day below.

There's defintely a baby in there... 18 weeks!!

2010-10-10T18:30:00.000-07:00

I definitely feel my stomach moving outwards and the jeans are snug and snugger. Definitely lots of changes in the last couple weeks. I'm still waiting for this 2nd trimester energy that people talk about.. the one I had with Aydan that let me put together his crib and changing table by myself in one night, ha. I only get energy about 1 day a week. I also feel a lot of pressure on the lower belly.. and a couple times that may have been kicking. I think I'll definitely start feeling the flutter stronger in the next 2 weeks.
This week: The baby will grow to about 5 1/2-6 in.. and around 7 1/2-8 1/2 oz big. Some doctors say the baby can start hearing your voice this week... how exciting!

We find out the gender in 8 days!!!

Busy weekend ahead

2010-10-08T10:24:00.000-07:00

To the world of blogging. I'm out and I'll be back in a few days! I'm headed off to one of my best friends weddings. I'm super excited to be part of her big day! and Aydan too (the ring bearer). I'll be back with pictures!! Everyone enjoy the weekend of beautiful weather in October.

Oh, and we find out the gender in 10 days!! :)

Update.. 17 and a half weeks

2010-10-06T15:36:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy day. Got a lot done at school today.
But now have a lot of cleaning to finish tonight and lots of school work to do! (grading/grade entering)
So not much time to blog tonight.

But the baby update.
The baby is now about 5 in long and 6 oz big. Movement of arms and legs is more frequent now. The ears are now in their final position. Blood vessels are now visable through the think skin.
For me, the pants are now snug and I have feel a lot more pressure on the lower belly. Things are defintely a changing. Oh and we find out the gender in 12 days!! :)

And here's the totally creepy website pic of the baby at this stage!

First dry night

2010-10-05T15:06:00.000-07:00

Aydan was dry this morning.... dry for 9 hours straight then peed on the potty this morning! Good job buddy. He's staying dryer longer all the time. He still pees in diaper a lot. We're missing that step of him telling me he has to go. He either tells me right after or he gets distracting with what he's doing and then remembers. I have seen big improvements the last 2 days though. He's been going into the bathroom to go poop. Yes, he's standing next to the toilet and doing it in his diaper, but he's starting to realize that's where we're supposed to do it at. :)

I really feel like he will be potty trained by the time this next baby comes. Keep it up baby!!

Long Boring Sunday

2010-10-04T17:57:00.000-07:00

Sunday was long and boring day.
But we probably needed it after a big full Saturday. We got up early and had professtional pictures done of our whole family... the grandparents, Justin's sister and her family, and our family. The couple we've seen turned out great. Then we went out to lunch. And that evening we went to the foundation dinner at the high school.
Anyways, Sunday was full of grading, cleaning around the house, and moving stuff around in Aydan room. I moved his changing table out and into the guest room (soon to be new baby's room) and slid his dresser over.. basically making room for his train table that came in. Its in St. Louis right now, but I'll put pictures up when its all up and he's playing with it.
I helped him through this boring day by getting out toys he hadn't seen in awhile and he got pretty entertained with that. One thing I got out was his soft blocks. Here is a video of him playing with them. (well can't get it work, I'll work on it.
Here are some pictures too, until there.

Stacking away

Look how high I can build

Ahhh.. I'm so pooped from building.. Ohh, and I'm bored again Mom. :)

Sweet pregnancy treat

2010-10-01T17:38:00.000-07:00

I decided since I haven't made one in a long while and I should treat myself for all the wonderful things I do (hehe)... that I would make my famous Strawberry Cheesecake!! Made it when I came home from school today. Might dig into tonight, but going to try and wait until tomorrow to really start enjoying numerous pieces. Here is the finished product, "finishing" in the fridge.

Its ok to be licking your lips right now.... yummy

Knock, Knock... Can Aydan come out and play?

2010-09-30T19:50:00.000-07:00

We have some sweet older kids that live next door and they have been coming over lately when Aydan and I are outside to hang out. They love to see Mowgly too. They played with Aydan plastic play set of golf clubs and balls for a long time. It even wore Aydan out tonight.
Anyways... Aydan was tired so I told them he needed to go inside for dinner. And they asked if he could come back out and play after dinner? How cute! My 2 year old is getting invited to come out and play already. He must be a fun kid!

Eating like a big boy!

2010-09-29T17:58:00.000-07:00

My big boy now officially eats his meals on his own and with utencils. He is a picky eating so we struggled with it. Also, we skipped the easier version of using his hands and shoving everything in his mouth. Unless finger foods only, we have always feed him using a spoon or fork and have worked with him to use it too. I am proud of him and he is eating more new stuff too. I can't blame him for being picky, because I am :) but working on him to get better with it.

I should have taken a picture of him eating his spagetti tonight all on his own, but didn't. I will try to get one here soon. Instead I this one of a boy eating what he ate. The difference is he stayed pretty clean. Little bit on the face and a couple pieces on his shirt and that's it.

16 week and 1 day!

2010-09-27T17:29:00.000-07:00

4 month down, about 5 and a half to go!!!
Had my 4 month appt today. It went well. The baby's heartbeat was good, strong, 153 beats a minute (I think). They said I'm doing well and to keep doing whatever I'm doing. I should start feeling the movement in the next month, so yay! Annnnnd... we find out the gender in 3 weeks!! Oct 18th! I'm pretty excited and nervous to find out.. but I'm sure it'll all work out.

Don't look much different from the 14 week picture. But I took this picture yesterday, on 16 weeks, and I swear I woke up bigger.. so the 18 week picture will be different for sure. Aydan even make a cam-e-o in this month's picture.

Best shopping day with Aydan

2010-09-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Aydan and I had a shopping/fun day. He was a trooper. No complaints from him and we took our sweet time running around Carbondale and Marion.
We hit the Book store and he successfully convinced me to get him some Thomas the Train books.
We went to the Saluki t-shirt store and got some new SIUC appareal. He had a blast running up and down the cubes of t-shirts. We were the only ones in there and he took full advantage of it to act like we own the place.
We went to 2 halloween stores to try and find a shark costume or something else I liked for him. He ran into a ghost and it set it off.. which of course made him cry and run to me and not let go until we left. In the end, no costume yet.
We went to the mall, where I had to get a $5 stroller for 30 minutes because I forgot to bring mine. This one had a steering wheel on it though.
We then went to Target for some maternity pants.. all theres are too short. Aydan did get some popcorn to get as I did all this and that made it all worth while for him. And of course, like any other Target trip.. I came out with a lot of stuff, nothing I went in for.
Toys r Us, of course, where we couldn't find a duck, which is what he wanted. Apparently plastic ducks on a string aren't made anymore. And his daycare has 2 of them, that he loves! He got a "Super Why" wand that does letters and words, etc.
Lastly, we went to Walmart for a "smaller" grocery trip. I did find a new diaper bag. I wanted a black one that is bigger than what I have now. With 2 kids.. need a bigger one. This one holds are current one, with room to spare. perfect!
The day ended with going to the Farm in Mcleansboro. He rode down all the slides, even the big one! He got a couple mini-pumpkins. And basically ran around all the fun play sets, houses, etc they have there to play on. He cried when we had to leave and was asleep by the 5 min drive home.. Asleep in my arms, as I was taking off his clothes to bathe him. And of course, slept really well after this long day.

Aydan in the Saluki shopping store. After running laps for 10 mins, he took a rest.. and posed real cute for me.

Big stuff on the slide!

New shark bath towel

2010-09-23T18:31:00.000-07:00

Aydan's new shark bath towel came today!! It's super cute. He used it tonight after his bath and was staring up at the teeth on the head of the shark. Its from pottery barn and he got his name put on it. Yes, sad because this was one of my highlights of the day.. but its super cute.
Da, Da, Da, Da... da, da... lol

Holy cow am I tired today...

2010-09-22T18:12:00.000-07:00

I am tired today.... oh my goodness.
My back and shoulders hurt.
I've been yawning most of the day since noon.
I'm dragging butt.
I've had to pee a lot today, way more than normal.. even for this stage.
My head hurts and my eyes are tired.......

Theirs my pitiful complaining for the day. Tomorrow will be better, I just know I'll be on the energy train. Now off to grade Math tests.