Mom! Are we there yet?

I have moved

2008-04-14T15:17:00.002-06:00

I decided to try out Wordpress blog hoster, and I love it. Please, follow me here, and change your bookmark while you're there!

Ethan's Birth Story::A Photo Post

2008-04-05T16:20:00.012-06:00

Picture One: This is the size of Ethan's first diapers. They were falling off of him! I added the pencil to the shot for reference.

Pictures Two and Three: Hospital photos.

Pictures Four and Five: One week after Ethan was born, Ronnie and I got to hold him, for the first time.

Picture Five: Aunt Jennifer with Ethan in the Kangaroo Hold.

Picture Six: Going home!

Picture Seven: Falling asleep at the table!

Picture Eight: This was such a funny stage Ethan went through. Look how huge his cheeks are as he smiles at Ronnie!

Picture Nine: Those fat cheeks again. Praise Jesus!

Picture Ten: Bath Time.

Picture Eleven: Meeting Grandma Thompson. A four-generation photo.

Picture Twelve: I made this outfit for Ethan. When the hood was on, he looked like Darth Vader!

Picture Thirteen: Ethan at a park in Fort Worth when we were there for a friends wedding.

Picture Fourteen: Ethan walking on his tippy toes. So cute!

Ethan's Birth Story (Hospital Recovery)

2008-04-04T10:05:00.004-06:00

For me, the recovery period wasn't too bad. I was on morphine for a good deal of two days or so.

My sister was there within a day or two, and on that first weekend, my good friend Colleen came to visit.

Once the feeling was back (mostly) in my legs, but I was still on the morphine drip, the nurse helped me into a wheelchair.
The nurse wheeled me so quickly to the NICU I could actually feel a breeze on my face. Jennifer nearly tripped on the IV pole, and Ronnie had to run to keep up. Crazy!
(Photo: Ronnie and Ethan)

Once at the NICU, I was able to stand, then sit in a lounge chair near Ethan.

The following day, while Jennifer was still there, the Lactation Consultants came to visit me.

"Are you planning to breastfeed?" they asked, almost fearful of my answer.

"Yes, I am."

"Whew! Good! We don't have to give our schpeel about how good breastfeeding is for premmies. In fact, if you had decided not to, the Neonatal Physicians would have come to encourage you to breastfeed."

Then came our their big gun. The Hospital Grade Medela Breast Pump. It was kind of scary to look at! And the way it was assembled was even more dramatic and scary.

And then it happened.

In front of all those assembled before me. (Ronnie, Jennifer, and two lactation nurses.)

They hooked me up to that machine.

They all stared at me. Smiling.

I stared back. Not smiling.

"What's wrong?" someone asked.

I just glared at her, as if to say, "If everyone were staring at your breasts being pumped, would you be smiling?"

I can't believe I continued to pump after that, but I did. For two long months.

"Like honey!" said the lactation nurse.

"Did you hear that? Like honey!" Jennifer smiled.

And, they were right. Colostrum looks a lot like honey.
I was told then, that the milk of premmie moms is so thick with nutrients, it is as if the mom's body knows that the baby was born too soon and begins to increase the quality of the milk.
Amazing!
That weekend, Colleen came to visit. She would make we laugh so hard, and it hurt so bad, I had to resort to laughing with my throat and not my belly. Believe me, it's harder than it sounds. (Photo: Me and Colleen)

That Saturday, five days later, I was released. We got a room at the Ronald McDonald House. It would be our home-away-from-home for two months.

Intermission

2008-04-03T07:07:00.002-06:00

All this writing about Ethan's birth has brought up a lot of emotion.
I had forgotten how traumatic it all was.

I recall such a normal life before his birth. It hasn't been the same since.

Anyway, all is well here. We had Sofia's 2 month well check. She is 10 pounds, 11 ounces. Growing well.

I've missed the past couple workout days. Seems motivating myself to get in a van full of kids and drive to the Y is more challenging that the workout! I may resort to going after Ronnie gets home each night. The Y is open until 10 pm, so that's doable.
I did make 2 miles on the treadmill on Monday night, though! Yay me! I think it's been since college that I walked 2 full miles at one time. AND, it only took about 45 minutes at a reasonable pace--nothing too fast yet.

Well, I hope you are all enjoying Ethan's birth story. He will be 9 on the 13th. Doesn't seem that long ago.

Ethan's Birth Story (Part Six)

2008-04-02T14:28:00.007-06:00

At 10:36 PM, Ethan Grant was born. Two pounds, eleven ounces. Fifteen and a half inches long.

He was swaddled and brought over to me to see and kiss, then whisked away to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, or NICU.

I was stitched and stapled and taken to recovery. While in recovery, my parents arrived.

"Daddy!" I exclaimed as they peered through the door. Dad said he would not have recognized me if I had not called out to him--I was that swollen.

On that note, if you are wondering, I had toxemia. The nurses were just thrilled to see such a text book case. I had all the symptoms and signs, and a seemingly "perfect" example of how quickly this disease can attack.

An hour or so later, I was taken to the sixth floor to the NICU to see Ethan. They pulled my bed right along side of his warming table/bassinet thing. He was under the bili=light for jaundice. I got to see him for a few minutes, then they rolled me down the hall to my postpartum room.

"I'm going to throw up!" I shouted as we entered the room.
Ronnie handed me a trash can, in which I dry heaved for a couple of minutes. That trash can would see much more of that as each time I tried to drink something, it came right back up.
At around 4 in the morning, the nice nurse suggested I have a shot of something that would take the nausea away.
"They make a shot for that?!!"
She came back in a couple of minutes and gave it to me. I fell asleep.
When breakfast came the next morning, the heaving came back. I asked the new nurse, "Could I have that shot that makes me not throw up?"
She came back after asking my doctor. Syringe in hand!

Ah, liquid nutrients!

Here are some pictures of Ethan's first days.
That's Ronnie's hand out stretched to show how long Ethan was. Ethan was on a respirator for the first 10 days, I think.

And again, Ronnie's hand beside Ethan. The white "beauty mask" was for protecting Ethan's eyes from the bright light.

Ronnie and me holding Ethan's hands. What a grip he had on my thumb! Such tiny little hands.

Ethan's Birth Story (Part Five)

2008-04-01T14:49:00.003-06:00

"Jennifer," I said tearfully, My blood pressure is really high, and I think getting upset might not be a good idea."

Immediately her tone changed from fearful to uplifting. She began pouring encouragement over me and Ethan.

While I was talking with Jennifer, a couple came in that I had never met. They introduced themselves as friends of Ronnie's. Someone had called them from ETBU, and since they knew Ronnie so well and lived near the hospital, they came right over. They stayed with me until I was taking in to surgery. They were great company and kept my spirits high.

Ronnie came in soon afterward and stayed at my side, making phone calls and answering important questions.

After an ultrasound, blood tests, and a visit from the on-duty obgyn, it was decided that Ethan would be born as soon as the operating room was ready. Ethan, being breech and 11 weeks premature, would not survive a vaginal delivery.
Dr. Shivvers agreed to let me have some ice chips, since it had been since 8am that I'd eaten, and it was already after 9pm. The nurse who had been refusing to let me have anything turned to him and said, "Fine, she can throw up all over you then!"
he followed her out the door and I don't recall seeing her after that!

At 10pm, they began prepping me for surgery.
They shaved the site for the incision. Inserted a catheter.
A nurse, a kind nurse, came in and leaned me over on her shoulder as the anesthesiologist inserted the spinal block. She breathed deeply with me. It was very calming, and I never felt the needle.

Ethan's Birth Story (Part Four)

2008-03-31T10:01:00.003-06:00

I must interject here that I am a very compliant and nice person under these kinds of circumstances. I figure, "I don't know how to fix this, they do." and I let the doctors and nurses do what must be done. This can be both good and bad, as we'll see later.

I chatted with the nurse in the ambulance all the way to Dallas. I was so excited. I remember saying, "This is a great day! I'm having my first baby, my first ambulance ride, and my first hospital stay! How exciting!"
I'm pretty sure she thought I was in shock, but she kept talking to me. I know she thought Ronnie was in shock. She said, as the ambulance pulled away from the hospital in Longview, "I think your husband is in shock. He seems too calm."
"No." I replied, "Ronnie is always like that. He never gets stressed." (If that were only true today.)

When we arrived at the hospital in Dallas, it was almost dark. The EMT's unloaded me from the ambulance. Of course, the skinny one nearly fell over from my weight-poor thing. The big guy showed him how it was done, and I was whisked in to Labor and Delivery once more.

I was in my room for barely five minutes when the telephone rang. Not believing it was for me, I had the nurse answer.

"It's for you. Do you know a 'Handsome'?"

"Yes," that's my sisters boyfriend!"

"Are you okay?" he asked in a panic, and gave me a brief lecture on scaring everyone. "Here's your sister."

No doubt she had been pacing the floor, wringing her hands. Jennifer took over his side of the conversation. She was very emotional and made me cry.

Our conversation tomorrow. Meanwhile, here's a photo of Sofia at two months:

Ethan's Birth Story (Part Three)

2008-03-30T21:44:00.002-06:00

I cried the whole 30 minute drive to Longview. Ronnie sped silently and held my hand between shifting.

At Linda's office, I was weighed, my urine was tested for protein, and my blood pressure was checked.

The results:
weight=+20 pounds in 3 weeks
urine=+4
blood pressure=203/133

Becky said, "Lay down honey. You're going to the hospital."
She told me I would go to Dallas or Shreveport, depending on what the doctor on call decided about the condition of the baby, and that he would be born in a few days.

Ronnie drove me across the street to Longview Regional Medical Center. I was rushed to Labor and Delivery. An IV was started with Magnesium Sulfate, which made me really hot all over. They inserted a catheter and gave me a steroid shot in the butt. I was told the steroids were for Ethan's lung development.

Within an hour or so, the decision was made that I would be transported via ambulance to Dallas, and I was told again that my baby would be born in the next few days.

Just as they were loading me into the ambulance, Brother Robert Massey, our pastor at the time, and a good friend, Ricky Bryan, caught up with us. The EMT's waited so patiently as they encouraged and prayed over me.

Ethan's Birth Story (Part Two)

2008-03-29T19:31:00.002-06:00

We decided on the name Ethan Grant. Both names mean strength, or strong. We didn't know that was a foreshadowing of what would come next.

April 12, 1999, Ronnie and I went for a walk around the block. We probably walked for about 30 minutes to an hour. The weather was beautiful, and I felt great, just really swollen.

April 13, 1999, I awoke with a severe headache, unlike anything I'd ever had before or have ever had since. My vision was so blurry, I could not make out the numbers on my digital alarm clock.

I had been baby sitting a little girl and, not feeling well, I called her mom to see if I could keep her at out apartment. She agreed and brought Chloe over for the day.

Just after putting Chloe down for her first nap, I called Linda's office. I explained the headache and blurred vision to her nurse Becky, who told me to come in as soon as possible to check my blood pressure. I told her it might be later that afternoon when Ronnie was home from student teaching.

Then it happened. I turned around and saw my eyes in the mirror. The whites of my eyes were so swollen, I could actually see them 'ripple' between my eyelid and the colored portion of my eye.

I started crying and called Chloe's mom to come get her. I then called the Jr. High, where Ronnie was, and told him to come get me for the doctors office.

Ethan's Birth Story (Part One)

2008-03-28T10:20:00.002-06:00

Ronnie and I had been married four months when we learned of our first child. His due date was June 29, 1999, just two days after our 1 year anniversary.

Morning sickness for me was mild. Only nausea and fatigue for the first trimester. Then, like a magic switch, I felt great!

Things were sailing along. We had our first appointment with our midwife, Lynn Jett, and all systems "go." I made a trip to my parents house while Ronnie was gone to South Padre Island for Beach Reach. While I was there, my sister had a nice little conversation with my unborn, "Hey, you in there, hurry up and come out! We want to meet you!"

Looking back at the photos from that time, it was obvious that something wasn't right.

Back at ETBU, Ronnie and I were called to the deans office. Seems as 'on-campus' residents, we could not have a home birth. With that realization, and with much prayer, Ronnie and I felt God leading us to find a doctor. We asked around and found Linda Boggs, a nurse practitioner in Longview.

On April 6, 1999, we had our 28 week ultrasound. IT'S A BOY!

I would post a photo of me from that Spring Break, but I can't find it.

What more could a girl ask for?

2008-03-27T21:56:00.001-06:00

20 minutes on the treadmill.
15 minutes in the sauna.
20 minutes in the shower.
Shopping.
Chocolate.
New clothes!

I feel so good!

Y.M.C.A.

2008-03-26T09:46:00.004-06:00

Here I come!

Last night, after supper, we loaded up the family and took the long drive to the Y.

We were able to apply for financial assistance, or else we would be paying more than we can afford. The pay scale is based on 2 parents, with children and a certain income. The financial assistance takes into account the number of children you have.

For instance: A two parent household with one or more children, making $50,000 a year would pay $67 a month.
That's great if you only have 1 or 2 children, but with a family of 7, $67 makes a big dent in the budget, not to mention the amount of gas you'll be spending to get there.

So, with a recent pay cut, trying to get out of all debt/student loans, we applied for the 'scholarship'. We should know within the next two weeks if we get it or not.
In the mean time, we have a guest pass, that works just like a membership. I can do all the things a member can do, while we wait for the scholarship.

I could hardly get to sleep last night thinking about going to work out today. The locker room even has a dry sauna! Be still my heart!

I'm so excited! I can work out, sit in the sauna for a few minutes, shower, fix my hair and makeup, all while the children are safe in the Child Watch area. I'm so excited!

Did I mention I am excited?

Photo: Today, March 26, 2008

When I was thin...

2008-03-25T09:43:00.002-06:00

When I was thin you would see me in a nice dress regularly.
...you would find me wearing makeup and a big red smile.
...you would find me singing in the grocery store/department store/as I walked along the way.
...you would find me hugging people.
...you would find me.

Now, as an overweight person, you might not find me at all.
I feel awkward in my own skin.
I would rather not draw undue attention to myself, even positive attention.
I don't feel comfortable in a dress.

For some good news...
We met a woman that works at the YMCA yesterday. She told us about the sliding scale for economically challenged families. She told us about 2 hours of child care a day, while I get to work out/shower/or even read!

We'll be heading to the Y soon!

Cloth Diapers

2008-03-22T17:26:00.004-06:00

Check out BabyBestBuy.com for inexpensive pinless cloth diapers and accessories.

I just ordered some from there. I'll post a photo of Sofia in one when they come in!

Also check out DiaperSewing.com for a pattern to convert prefold diapers into fitted diapers. Super easy if you have the patience!

Soap Free Laundry Cleaner

2008-03-22T10:57:00.003-06:00

2 parts Washing Soda (same as baking soda) to 1 part borax. Mix these really well.

I would make a big batch of this.

Then use 3/4 cup per load.

For added whitening power, use 1 tablespoon lemon juice, then line dry in the sun. The sun will help that lemon juice brighten your whites.

For extra odor elimination, use 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar.

Super Easy, Inexpensive Home Made Laundry Detergent

2008-03-21T22:08:00.004-06:00

4 cups water
1 bar soap--your choice
3 gallons hot water
1 cup Arm and Hammer Washing Soda
1/2 Borax
1 five gallon bucket

In a sauce pan, heat 4 cups water just before boiling. DO NOT BOIL.
Shave your bar of soap into the sauce pan and stir until completely melted. **I found Ivory soap lightly scented with lavender.

Pour 3 gallons of hot water into your five gallon bucket. Add the 4 cups of soap water and stir for a minute or two.

Now, add the Washing Soda and stir for a minute or two.

Now, add the Borax and stir for a minute or two.

Let this bucket cool overnight. You'll end up with a gelatinous solution, slightly lighter than the bar of soap you chose. Ours is a clear-white.

Use 1 cup of this laundry soap per load of laundry.

Pads

2008-03-20T21:14:00.008-06:00

(aka: diaper inserts)
I made these for the inserts for my pads, whenever that time comes, and then realized how perfectly sized they are for inserts in a newborn cloth diaper! Dual purpose! Whenever Sofia is too big for them, I'll be able to use them for my menstrual pads.
I made them from a pattern from www.diapersewing.com.
I am quite proud that I didn't even get the slightest bit angry with the sewing machine tonight.

FYI: These pads are made from flannel receiving blankets. They are 8 inches long and 3 inches (or so) wide. You could customize them for your own personal needs. I'm planning on making some larger for the toddler boy!

I'm learning new things...

2008-03-20T18:18:00.003-06:00

After a bunch of research and a tight budget, we've decided to buy cloth diapers for Sofia and Levi, the toddler--some day he'll potty train!

Then, some more research on making my own detergent and home cleaners and I actually found a pattern for cloth pads. You got that, cloth menstrual pads. Sorry if TMI.

I just recently made the switch to organic disposable pads after Sofia was born because I got a terrible rash on the inside of my legs from the wings of the pads I normally used.

So, going cloth diapers with the kiddos, it made since to go cloth with menstrual pads.

Of course, I wont need them for almost 2 years, but, hey, I can make one a month until Aunt Flow comes back and have plenty in the cupboard!

Going natural is becoming much more fun lately!

Spring Equinox

2008-03-20T13:12:00.001-06:00

Spring has sprung!

Obviously, the children know it, because they've all decided to drive me completely mad today!

Hahahahahha! Hehehehehe! Hohoohohohoh!

Playing Dress Up

2008-03-18T09:14:00.002-06:00

The other day, Ethan came down stairs to announce, "Melody is a princess, and Levi is a prince."

Melody came down in her Easter dress from last year, which surprisingly still fit (check that off the to buy list!) and Levi was wearing a yellow ralph lauren t-shirt, complete with polo figure. The polo logo was what symbolized he was a prince! "But, he will be a knight when he gets older," said Elijah.

"We don't know what we can be." said Ethan.

"How about cowboys!" said I. (They all got western wear from family members for Christmas.)

"Yeah!" he shouted and up the stairs they all went again.

Ahhh! I'm so delighted at how well they are playing imagination games these days. What a delight it is to see my children doing the things I did as a kid. So fun!

Moments like these

2008-03-16T17:31:00.001-06:00

Don't you own a TV?

2008-03-16T12:38:00.002-06:00

Don't you know what causes that?
Boy! You're gonna be in trouble when they're teenagers!
You've got your hands full!
That's too many!
Oh my! How many are you going to have?!!
I don't know how you do it.
You're crazy!

These are just some of the rude things I've heard from people. I'm not sure they know how rude and cruel they are being.

Yes, it is hard to have a lot of kids these days. But not because the kids are hard.

It's because other people think my life is their business and they have every right to tell me, in so many words, that I'm stupid.

How rude!

What if I came up to every childless couple and asked, "Don't you ever have sex?!" in front of everyone at Wal-Mart. Wouldn't that be cruel and hurtful?

But, you see, I'd never do that. Because I know that some people choose not to have children. Some people can't have children. And others are just waiting.

So, why is it so hard for people to be nice to women with lots of kids? Why?

Frustration from a diaper

2008-03-14T11:45:00.004-06:00

I tried to make a homemade cloth diaper today.
As with all sewing projects, I ended up entirely frustrated and almost threw the sewing machine.
I was on the verge of cursing--which isn't too far off at the moment.
The kids are fighting/ playing... whatever you want to call it.
I finally got Sofia in her bassinet to sleep. She wanted to be held all morning.
Now the kids are very loud and I'm thinking about going to Wendy's for their lunch.

5 Little Cuties!

2008-03-13T07:44:00.003-06:00

Sorry for the poor resolution on some of these photos. Our digital camera is not working well these days.

Familial bullies

2008-03-12T16:33:00.001-06:00

I don't like bullies.
Never have.
Don't know anyone who likes bullies.
Even the bullies themselves.

That's why it is so disturbing to realize that there are bullies in my family.
They are not nice.
They tease my children.
They criticize them.
They bully them.

It's not nice.
Stop it!

::Extreme Sports::

2008-03-11T19:12:00.000-06:00

You gotta check out this Smack Down!

Spring Fever

2008-03-09T16:08:00.003-06:00

Well, not fever, thankfully, but close enough.

The cedar pollen has flown in from the west, and our entire household, even Sofia, is stuffy and coughing.

I sound like I swallowed a ~~horse~~ frog. And with that, the kids think it is hilarious to talk so loud that they can't hear me, which isn't too loud right now.

The in-laws were in this weekend, and Ronnie's mom called to say they were back home and she is sick. It's just allergies, but I hope she gets over it soon. However, the lack of sleep that ~~all the children~~ Ethan got is affecting his attitude. That will be remedied by tomorrow. I am certain of it. If not, he will face the wrath of a ~~horsemomma~~ horse momma!

Poor Melody

2008-03-07T19:54:00.003-06:00

I took Melody in to see her new pediatrician today. She warmed up quickly to her, which is good, because Melody is very picky when it comes to ~~new people~~ new doctors.
Nurse Keri (was her name) took a look at Melody's mole and said, "It must come off."

It's not particularly huge, and it has not grown out of proportion to her own growth, but it did this year begin to grow hair, which alarmed little miss ~~muffet~~ Melody.

So, I have to make her an appointment with a dermatologist, which will entail, numbing cream, novacaine injections, and some sort of straight jacket. I'm sending Dad in for this one!

Beautiful Smiles

2008-03-06T13:18:00.004-06:00

These photos were taken today when Ronnie was home for lunch. He was kissing her and she just kept on smiling. It was so much fun! Then, when she saw my camera phone, she stopped smiling and just kept on staring. I can never get her to smile for the camera. maybe when she's a bit older she'll develop her sister's
love for the camera!

Adorable Teenager!
My new neighbor has a 17 year old girl. She was over after school this afternoon. I forgot how teenagers know everything.

My sister, The Writer

2008-03-01T12:04:00.002-06:00

My sister is writing a great story.
It's gonna be a blog-novel, I'm sure of it. Check it out and read for fun!

The cutie pie at 1 month

2008-02-29T10:47:00.003-06:00

Sofia had a Well Check yesterday.

She weighs 9 pounds, is 21 inches, and she is beautiful!

I held her up to Melody and said, "This is how big your were when you were born!"

Hard to believe it's already/only been a month.

The Wisdom of a 4 Year Old...

2008-02-27T10:02:00.002-06:00

Melody: "Milk, water and juice make pee-pee."

Me: "Yes, they do." In full surprise that she is thinking about such things.

Melody: "And food makes poop!"

Me: "You are correct!"

Yesterday, Elijah also asked me, "What do you call a girls penis?"

In editing...

2008-02-26T11:12:00.001-06:00

So, I finished Ethan's birth story last night. It needs a bit of tweaking, so it's still not print worthy.
Hopefully, I'll get it posted sometime around his birthday, maybe sooner.

FYI: His birthday is April 13th.

Radio Silence?

2008-02-25T11:08:00.005-06:00

Why is it that if I tell a cute story about the kids, everyone comments, but when I mention "The end of the world" there is radio silence?

Has it not occurred to anyone that the government has mandated that ALL televisions and radio stations go HD by February, 2009? Why does the government care about radio frequencies and HD technologies?

Some would say that the new HD tv's will have a camera in them so the government can see what you are doing in your home and at all times. I'm not so sure about that.

I have heard that the government says that there is too much radio 'noise' and that the emergency vehicles, etc., need those radio frequencies to communicate. That makes more sense, but not much.

Remember that ID card I talked about two posts back?

Yes, the one they'll insist you take with a computer chip in it with all your personal information on it.
Well, it wont be too long before the government starts requesting everyone to get the RFID, like the one they give pets now.

What is the RF in RFID, you may ask. Well, I'll tell you:

RADIO FREQUENCY

That's right, folks. They want to wire you up so they can find you, wherever you are.

To Christians, this is no big surprise, or shouldn't be. That little ID chip will be the only way one can 'buy, sell, or trade.' Those very words are found in the book of Revelation speaking about the 'mark.' And the government will want this chip implanted in your left hand or forehead. They've already got it in place to inject into newborns in the hospital. It's called "Halo."

Now, before you all decide I'm a loon, let me give a disclaimer.

My personal belief here is that the end is near. However, "No man knows the hour or the day." We need not panic or freak out about these times. They are prophecy fulfilled.
I am not giving this information to scare anyone, just to let you know what is going on. Seems the government is doing this without any of our knowledge. The plans are already in the works. States are already complying or refusing to comply to this mandate for the national ID. Where does your state stand?

The Legality of Vaccination

2008-02-23T10:43:00.001-06:00

Avoiding vaccinations legally is easy.
The article in the above link explains how!

Manipulation made manifest

2008-02-22T15:16:00.006-06:00

Seems in today's world, many people are focussed on things like getting the new HD television upgrade, having a newer car, buying a new house, watching that new HD television.
We are ever manipulated by the internet and the fun of playing all those expensive computer games we just installed on our new computer.
We are focussed on things like which presidential candidate agrees with my moral view points on marriage, abortion and taxes. Who looks like a president, which one looks like that crazy guy from 8 years ago--that one that had white hair with the big ears?
We are focussed on why God would allow shootings in schools, or terrorists flying planes into twin towers.

Yet, we have missed something so important. We have had our time manipulated and consumed by all our 'good intentions' for the 'better good.'

What have we missed?

In 2005, a bill was made law. That law is the REAL ID Act of 2005. If you haven't heard about it, you'd better investigate. This is serious stuff, folks, and it's being done without your consent.

I would like to draw everyones attention to the bottom of the article highlighted above. It states:

Anthony Romero, the executive director of ACLU, stated: "... Real ID is an unfunded mandate that violates the Constitution's 10th Amendment on state powers, destroys states' dual sovereignty and consolidates every American's private information, leaving all of us far more vulnerable to identity thieves."

and...

On January 25, 2007, a Resolution passed overwhelmingly in the Maine Legislature that refuses implementation of the Real ID Act in that state, and demands Congress repeal the law. Many Maine lawmakers believe the law does more harm than good, that it would be a bureaucratic nightmare to enforce, is threatening to individual privacy, makes citizens increasingly vulnerable to ID theft, and would cost Maine taxpayers at least $185 million in five years because of the massive unfunded federal mandates on all the states. The Resolution vote in the Maine House was 137-4 and in the Maine Senate unanimously, 34-0.

Maine is just one of the states opposed to this new national mandate for a national id card. It is imperative that every American know their rights and fight for them. This is the real deal folks. If you know anything or remember anything from the book of Revelation, this is prophecy unfolding!

This id card is just the first step. Next comes the chip implant!

One more thing, of the presidential candidates, McCain strongly supports the REAL ID, Paul and Obama vehemently oppose it, Clinton says she needs to 'review' it, and Huckabee says, "It is a grave mistake."

cnet article

YouTube video on ID Chip

I'm busy!

2008-02-20T10:32:00.001-06:00

Hi all, I may not be posting so regularly for a few days. I;m writing out Ethan's birth story, and it's a lot longer than I thought it would be. I want to give it my full attention.

See you when I'm done!

Just wait til you meet my new neighbor!

2008-02-17T21:15:00.003-06:00

Her name is Debbie. She is Jewish. She is Greek (insert photo of 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding' here). She is a Christian!

From the moment I met her, I could feel the presence of the Lord. She and her husband Dave, along with her daughter Twila, granddaughter, and mother-in-law, moved in next to us today. In the one story.

Ronnie went over to help them unload the UHaul as I read the first chapter from 'Prince Caspian' to the boys and Levi and Melody were napping. When I had finished chapter 1, I sent the boys over to help Ronnie and the new neighbors. I joined them after feeding Sofia.

I stepped inside her home, and she greeted me from across the living room and kitchen. Her mother-in-law and husband greeted me first, then she did. She was overwhelmed with joy at the presence of Christians around her. I could see this was much needed, and she, like me, is an open book.

Debbie is not afraid to open her heart and home to anyone, and she was constantly saying, "Oh! We are so blessed! Thank you, Lord, for blessing me with such neighbors who love you!" It was beautiful. I love her already. I think I'll adopt her as a second mom!

Then, she calls Papa John's and orders pizza. For everyone! The neighbor from the house on the other side of her was there as well, with her two children. She fed everyone! 7 children and 9 adults. What a blessing. We stayed there visiting until 8:30 PM.

As we left, Debbie gave all the kids a hug, told them they are welcomed over anytime, and hugged me too! I said, "We should do this every Sunday night!"

She agreed! She said, "We'll get out the barbecue pit and barbecue!"

Oh, I do love this woman!

Two days of blessings. Isn't God good!

Six things you may not know about me...

2008-02-17T11:01:00.003-06:00

My wonderful sister tagged me while I was recovering, so I'm finally getting to the meme.

1. I have a lot of grey hair. Have since I was a teenager. With each child, the grey becomes more obvious. Consequently, I also color my hair!

2. I was once a size 5. Really! That is why it is so hard to be a size 18.

3. I would have 5 more children, if that is God's plan for us. Learning to trust and lean on Him is the difficult part.

4. I have a lot of strong opinions that I keep unvoiced because people, in my own family, tend to scoff at my views and put me down because of them. This is something I am working to overcome, and it's not easy.

5. I believe God CAN DO ANYTHING. ANYTHING!

6. I am so in love with my husband, and I believe he is equally in love with me. We have had our moments of temptation, but God has guided us through and out of them. Because we love God, it is so easy to love each other. I can't imagine my life without him. He is my covering.

To Wal Mart, to Wal Mart to get a hair cut...

2008-02-16T15:20:00.003-06:00

We dropped into Wal Mart this morning, all seven of us, and I signed in at the SmartStyle for a hair cut. It's been a while, and I really do get good cuts at Wal Mart.

So, as I'm saying goodbye to the family, an older black couple is watching us. Ronnie walks away with all five kids, and the lady says, "Do you have five kids?"

Uh oh! Here it comes! I brace myself. "Yes, I do!"

She says, "Is that all you plan to have?"

"We don't know. That's all up to God." I tell her.

Her lower jaw nearly hits the floor. She elbows her husband, turns to me and says, "OH! You are so blessed! Are you for real?!!"

I smiled, said, "Thank you. Yes, I'm for real. We feel like we shouldn't limit the Lord's blessing on our family."

"OH! I felt that! You ARE blessed!"

She goes on to tell me she was the seventh child of 13! Thirteen!

I asked if she enjoyed being part of such a large family, and she said, "I wouldn't have traded it for the world."

We spent about 20 minutes just talking and praising the Lord until it was time for my hair cut.
After my cut, she even complimented me on how pretty my hair looks down. I told her it was such a blessing to talk with her and her husband and I enjoyed it. She blessed me in return, and I went to the toy section to find Ronnie and the kids.

Now, doesn't it bless a large family mom's heart to see the joy on someone's face when viewing their family. I was truly blessed by that lady and her husband today. The Lord knew I needed that! What a great God we serve!

Post Pardum Bleck

2008-02-15T09:36:00.002-06:00

So, we are three weeks out from birth, and last night it hit me.

I am depressed.

My husband went back to work. I feel abandoned. I feel overwhelmed. I feel like I cannot possibly handle five children.

I feel like I will never lose this weight, or the feeling that I'll be fat forever. I just want to hide in a corner somewhere and escape life. I don't want to be here!

The joyful laughter of my children is obnoxious to me. Their playfulness is exhausting to me. I just want to lay down and cry. I want to run away.

So, whether these are just the blues, or true post pardum depression, I don't know. I do know it will not conquer me. I will overcome.

Help me, Jesus!

Jennifer has no kids

2008-02-14T11:11:00.002-06:00

My sister has no kids.

And that's okay!

Apart from other, well meaning, family and friends, I don't believe that Jennifer and her husband need children to fulfill their marriage, or to complete it. Jennifer and her Handsome are very capable of living a full and complete marriage without the blessing, or burden, of children! And, yes, I did say burden!

Most large families, and small, will lie and say that children are only a blessing. But, as I have learned, they do come with a burden. That burden is one of the best I could ever describe. The burden of caring for and being responsible for a life God has entrusted to our care. At times it can be overwhelming. Most of the time it is overwhelming.

So, about Jennifer. Honestly, I would love to have a niece or nephew, but I'm okay not having any. Just as Jennifer and Handsome are okay with not having their own children. They are wonderful to my children. I could not ask for more.

In fact, for this school year, they purchased the home school curriculum for my children. What a blessing they are to my family! I think every child should have a doting aunt and uncle, who are able to provide things when their parents are not able. I think to have a couple in the family with no children is a blessing to all the children in the family.

I love my sister. For reasons that do not concern me, she and Handsome have chosen not to, or are unable to have children. That is not my business, and I shudder to think of how frustrating it is for her to continually be asked when they will be having children. Just as I hate the comments of "You sure do have your hands full!" she must loathe the comments of "So, when are you gonna give us some grandkids." How annoying, and disrespectful!

I love you Jennifer! You are my favorite!

Isn't it irresponsible to have a large family because..

2008-02-12T10:26:00.000-06:00

(***the following are questions and answers from LotsofKids.com, and I thought they were excellent information to those questioning my choice to have lots of kids.***)

...no one could possibly care for that many kids?

They can and they do. Quite well, too. Now, it does take some work, and wouldn't be considered the easiest job, but it's certainly not an impossibility. Feeding a crew simply means making more food and setting out more plates. Bath time just takes a bit longer and is in shifts. Reading a story to a group of your children is just as easy as reading it to one. Sure, you have less time to devote to each one daily, but you find quality time, and your children learn how to deal with less serious matters by themselves. While there may be a limit on time, despite misconceptions, there is not a limit on love. There are enough hugs for everyone.

There are many parents with 2 kids who have a hard time keeping up and caring for their children. In many ways it really isn't about how many kids you have, but how you parent, how you organize your time, and other factors. Another thing to consider is that large families were not uncommon 50 years ago. 50 years ago they had t.v., had telephones, and lived life very much like we do now. It was possible for people to care for 12 kids back then. With our advances and technology, theorhetically, it should be easier now. Of course, things moved at a slower pace back then, but that really doesn't change the fact that from a physical point of view, humans are very capable of caring for many young.

...they are a drain on society and the government?

There is a grave misconception that large families sit on welfare rolls, shelling out children to get more money. This is far from the truth. Large families are just like small families. True, there are some large families who receive government assistance, just like there are small families who are on welfare. For the vast majority, that is not the case. Large families have working parents, contribute to charity, and purchase goods with their own money. In fact, most large families are very efficient, and due to lack of support from society, tend to take on and do more for themselves. In general, they tend to ask for help less often.

That said, there is nothing inherently wrong if a large family is forced to go onto welfare for a while. Good people have found themselves in a position where they have needed to depend on assistance in order to get back on their feet. Just because a family has lots of children does not mean they are less entitled to this. It is unfair to view a small family that needs assistance as warranting compassion and pity, whereas if a large family goes on welfare it is presumed they caused their own problems and are sucking off the system. Unemployment and hard times can hit anyone, regardless of family size.

...the world is overpopulated and you are worsening the problem.

This is actually a myth. Many countries are struggling with a shortage of births and are offering incentives for people to have children. Granted, the United States is not in this situation...yet. Currently, we are at 0 population growth, meaning we are having enough births to replace those dying. However, birthrates have been declining for years, so it is conceivable that we will be in the negative birthrate soon and will be faced with problems in a few generations where there will not be enough young people to care for and support the elderly. This is not even to mention the problems it will cause for the already struggling U.S. Social Security system, which depends on the young paying in to support the benefits for the old. For some actual statistics on this issue, and to refute the idea large families are a serious threat to overall population, check out this LOK article.

...you are a drain on natural resources?

There is a strong argument that the greatest natural resource is the human mind. Many of the apparent shortages of the past were dealt with and eliminated by the advancement of technology, as individuals tackled and created solutions to looming problems. Large families simply expand on what every parent hopes and dreams for: that our children will contribute and help make the world a better place. It's much easier for a group of people to tackle a project than one person alone. Having lots of children gives the world a bigger pool of knowledge to help address those issues.

From a more immediate viewpoint, charging that large families are a drain is again a misconception. Most large families are very frugal. There is little waste, simply because less has to go a longer way. Food has to be stretched farther. Clothing is usually recycled through several children. Many cannot simply afford to use paper products, and thus cloth-diaper, use real napkins, etc. Some even supplement by growing their own food. If you were to compile 2 separate families of 4 and compare them with a single family of 8, in many cases you'd be surprised just how much less the family of 8 consumes as opposed to the 2 smaller families.

...because people should be in charge of their reproductive systems?

In an age where choice is touted, this question is one of the most curious. It is also one of the most presumptuous. Being in charge of your fertility is not exclusive to using artificial birth control. Many large families use one means or another to space pregnancies. Having a large family is a well-discussed, planned, and conscious choice, not simply a lack or failure of birth control. While it is true that some families do not do anything to impede fertility, there are many who use fertility charting and natural family planning, as well as those who use artificial means like the Pill or condoms. There are also parents who have taken measures to permanently prevent future pregnancies, but only after having made the choice to have 6 (or even 10) children. To say that most large families are not in charge of their fertility, and suggest that large families are the result of a series of unplanned pregnancies, is totally untrue and unfair. If one truly prides themselves on choice and freedom, it is absurd to criticize one for exercising their right and choice not to limit their family size.

...your children will not receive the attention they need from you, and they will be neglected?

The term neglected is pretty harsh. It is true that children in large families oftentimes do not get the one-on-one time their small family counterparts do. That hardly means they are being neglected. Again, this is yet another issue that is attached to large families, when it is actually an individual problem. Having a small family does not guarantee success. There are many parents who brag about how they provide for their children, yet in the pursuit of career and wealth, spend little time with their kids. From the outside, it may appear that that child and his one sibling are in a perfectly size family, yet the reality is they are receiving less attention than a child in a large family.

Another aspect that has to be considered is that not all attention need come from a parent. Certainly, a mother and father need to be involved and interactive with their children, but siblings play a big part in a large family dynamic. In fact, there are times when our own children do not want us around and would rather be with their sisters and brothers. The majority of children in large families are provided with loving homes, their basic needs, and parents who make every effort to spend time with them, even if it's not as much as a child in a small family would get. Children in large families learn that everything has value, including time, and they get a sense of how truly special it is when their parents take that time to spend with them.

Do you really think it's wrong that I limit my family size so I can give my children nice things?

There is nothing wrong with giving your children nice things. Though, it has been documented that overindulging your children could have negative affects on them. That said, I'm assuming you're a conscientious parent and don't do that. So, from a purely straightforward standpoint, no, you have the right to limit your family for whatever reason you feel fit. The problem is when people criticize large families because they do not feel material things are as important. There is the misguided belief that a child who has more stuff is happier and more well-adjusted. That is just not true. If you feel its best that your children have the best of everything, while I may not agree with that, I accept that as your decision.

I understand not overindulging your kids, but isn't it wrong to deprive them of some fun and things that normal children should have?

I am continually amazed by how much most large families are able to provide their children with. Video games, toys, nice clothing, outings, vacations, and more. The difference is, most large families view these luxuries as extras. Giving your children toys to play with is something all parents feel is important, but does a child truly need a whole room full? Do they honestly need so many clothes that they grow out of some before wearing them? Isn't it true that in many ways, camping can be just as exciting as spending a week in a nice hotel?

One of the points of contention between large and small families is what constitutes an adequate lifestyle. For one person, having their own room filled with video games, electronic equipment, and toys is a child's right. Others feel that providing food, shelter, comfort, emotional support, and an abundance of love is all that a child truly needs, with the rest being optional.

It is a proven fact that children who are given everything they want, without limitations, have a very difficult time in life. It is not wrong to want to give your children nice things, but many large families understand that not everything that is beneficial costs money. Having siblings to play with and form relationships with is a very important thing. Teaching a child that things cost money and need to be earned helps build their character and integrity. I do not think most large families feel their kids should do without fun stuff. They are simply more aware that when child has to do without a luxury, they learn to appreciate what they have a bit more.

So, you think it's okay that people have a lot of kids when they can't afford or don't have the time to take care of them?

Again, this is an issue that is directed at and made to look like a large family issue when it's more of a general question. It is not our place to judge who is fit or unfit to have a family. However, having children is definitely an important thing and one that should not be taken lightly. It is certainly adviseable that if a family truly cannot care for more children that they consider holding off on becoming pregnant. On the other hand, financial situations, such as most things in life, are subject to change. It is wrong to say a family should never have more children just because they can't afford it now. Just as it is equally wrong to judge someone as irresponsible for having a large family when in the past they did have adequate means, but perhaps suffered a job loss or other tragedy that put them in an adverse position.

All families, irregardless of size, should be mindful of their limitations when adding a family member. But, again, not being able to afford a child is subjective. Feeding, clothing, educating, and providing adequate love for a child is really all that is necessary. Many people would be amazed how affordable raising a large family can be if they looked at it from what is needed, as opposed to the wants and luxuries which can be costly but are not required to raise children.

The Mormons on PBS

2008-02-12T09:51:00.001-06:00

I was watching a very informative special on PBS last night, since all the other TV stations have reruns, on The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints--The Mormons.

It was very educational, and expounded on many issues I've not understood before. I sure do now. Although, they didn't finish the expose', it can be found on their website at www.pbs.org.

I'm actually looking forward to learning more about The Mormon faith, so next time they knock on my door I'll be prepared!

Someone had told me once that they just want to know you are a Christian and they will leave you alone. Not true! At least not around here.

A couple of "sisters" came to my door, no doubt sent by the neighbors we had met the Saturday before, and proceeded to question why I didn't want anything to do with the Mormon faith. Oh, but now, I have ammunition, and I will be prepared to fire next time. I may make a list and keep it handy at the door. For them and the Jehovah's Witnesses!

Got her!!!

2008-02-11T10:34:00.001-06:00

Melody was so super excited to hold Sofia, and immediately said, "Take a picture of me, Mom!"

Perty Girl

2008-02-10T13:03:00.000-06:00

We took a trip to Babies 'R' Us yesterday and bought 4 little premmie gowns for Sofia. She is much smaller than I had expected. I really thought she would be over 8 pounds.
So, the gowns will only fit for a week or two, but at least now she wont look like her clothes are swallowing her!

Sofia : 2 Weeks : Slide Show

2008-02-08T17:42:00.000-06:00

One of these days, I'll actually get Melody to hold her. She was holding her and posing for a photo yesterday when Sofia filled her diaper. The child freaked! End of photo session.

Sofia Slide Show : Birth

2008-02-06T21:23:00.001-06:00

The Ultimate Remedy for Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (aka: Pre-Eclampsia, Toxemia)

2008-02-04T18:13:00.000-06:00

Okay, so my bp was up. Yesterday morning, the reading was 149/101. Yikes! Especially considering it was perfect when I checked out of the hospital. 119/72.

So, I scoured the internet, hoping for a home remedy. I found myself at Ronnie Falcoa's Midwifery site, and found a simple recipe to lower bp by 20/10 in the first day.

I was skeptical, but the ingredients were cheap enough, so I sent Ronnie out in search of them.

After mixing the three super easy ingredients, and drinking the stuff, I thought, "This is awful, but if it works, who cares!"
I had lunch, then went upstairs for a nap.

During my nap I sweated majorly--a good sign!

I took my bp at 6pm that evening, and to my surprise, it was 129/82. Marvelous! Just what had been promised!

So, what is this home remedy? I'll share it with you, and if you have PIH, Pre-Eclampsia, or Toxemia, please try it and tell me your results!

PIH Home Remedy Recipe
2 tsp Cream of Tartar
the juice of 1/2 lemon
2 ounces of water

Mix all three ingredients, and drink once a day for three days. Skip one day, then repeat for three days.

Sofia : 8 Days

2008-02-02T17:05:00.001-06:00

Feeling better

2008-02-02T08:59:00.000-06:00

Once again, I am amazed by the strength of homeopathy. In just a few days, the strep is gone.

I had my staples removed yesterday, and my bp was up. 149/102 at the first reading. It didn't drop much after that. So, my ob took labs for PIH. It wouldn't surprise me, since my bp was starting to creep up at the end of my pregnancy, and was a bit high in the hospital, but nothing alarming.

Anyway, as soon as I can figure out how to post a slide show, I'll have more photos up. But here is one of Ronnie and Levi playing with PhotoBooth.

Check out this link for photos of Sofia's first week.

Feelings of Wellness

2008-01-31T09:38:00.000-06:00

I do not feel well.
Despite having the baby in my arms and out of my tummy--that's all good. The itching is gone. My exhaustion, nearly gone--at least for a while.

But, I got strep throat this week. Yay me! My friend Misty brought me the remedy for strep, since it was her fault I was exposed to the darn virus in the first place. Anyway, I'm feeling better this morning. Yesterday, I awoke from a nap with the feeling of cotton in the back of my throat. I took a look. Yep. Little white dots, abundant! Swollen tonsils, glands and uvula, check.

So, after the fist dose, I could eat some sherbet. I took another dose, and the white dots were nearly completely gone. Another dose this morning, and I'm feeling a bit better. We shall see how long the recovery takes.

Other than that, I am sore! I feel like someone took a Louisville Slugger to my abdomen...a few times. My right hip feels like it's out of socket, and I can barely walk without pain killers. Hmmm.....

This too shall pass. At least I have help for the rest of this week and next.

Sigh

Baby pictures

2008-01-30T09:15:00.000-06:00

To see the pictures taken in the hospital by their photographer, go to www.Our365.com .
Click on the Customer Number tab, and enter: 89751225577119.
You will be asked for a password and the first four letters of my last name.
Password: Hallelujah
Last Name: Jone

Ain't she perty!

I'm home!

2008-01-29T09:24:00.000-06:00

Thank you, Jennifer, for managing my blog while I was having the most beautiful baby ever!

I am recovering well at home since yesterday. A bit overwhelmed with the four big kids, I retired upstairs for much needed rest. This morning, I have found some rest and strength to come say hello to the world of the blog-o-sphere.
I will compile a photo album later and link to it from here for you all to see, but in the mean time, here's the update:

The kids are loving their new sister.
Ethan, being the oldest, has taken a special affinity to Sofia. I hadn't realized until last night that he felt responsible for the pain I was in. He didn't understand why I was hurting so much, and he just wanted to help. I wrote him a letter last night. A letter to tell him how proud I am of him and how thankful I am that God gave him to us for a son. He had mentioned to Ronnie a few weeks ago that he didn't want Sofia to be born 'too soon' like him, and he expressed some burden of guilt for his prematurity. What a sensitive child. His name, meaning "Strength" was given to us by God, the week before he was born at 29 weeks. He has the most gentle strength. Just like his daddy.
Elijah hasn't been around me much, but did cuddle up to me and Sofia on the sofa yesterday before I retired upstairs. He mostly just smiled at me. He keeps asking if I'm alright. I keep assuring him that I am feeling better every day as I get more and more rest. He is being especially attentive to Levi this week and being a great big brother. I plan on writing him a letter of encouragement tonight.
Melody could not be happier that her sister is finally here. Sofia looks like her, and she knows it. Her lips, nose and eyes are much like Melody when she was born. She is very gentle with her and takes extra special pride in introducing visitors to her new baby.
Levi woke at 4 this morning, while Sofia was crying during a diaper change. He rattled the door knob, "Let me in! I need to see the baby!" Ronnie gave her to me and let Levi in. I was lying on my right side, nursing Sofia, and Levi was propped up on my left side, peeking over at her. It was so cute. I wanted a picture, but it was 4 in the morning. He kissed her and me and went back to bed.

So, the children are smitten with their baby Sofia Grace. Nanna is here helping this week, and Ronnie is on vacation for two whole weeks! Praise the Lord! I'm so glad she came a few days earlier than planned!

Sleeping Beauty

2008-01-26T11:17:00.001-06:00

She's Here!

2008-01-25T16:11:00.000-06:00

With much joy, we welcome
Sofia Grace
Friday, January 25, 2008
6:38 PM
7 pounds 7 ounces
19 1/2 inches

Momma and baby are doing great. Leah says that Sofia took to nursing really well.

Maybe today?

2008-01-24T08:59:00.000-06:00

I had contractions for most of the night. They were mild and painless, but persistently 4-6 minutes apart.

I was hoping for a mucous plug or for my water to break as a positive sign to head to the hospital, but no such luck.

At 5 AM, I couldn't sleep and headed for the shower. After my shower, the contractions waned, and I slept for another couple of hours.

When I awoke around 8 AM, I was having contractions once again. Only they were about 10 minutes apart and a bit longer in nature. They also seemed a bit more serious.

So, here I sit, waiting for each contraction--there's one now--and hoping, praying, for a sign to head to the hospital.

Posting my current photo here, just in case I'm not here tomorrow! I'm 39 weeks tomorrow.

Homeopathy to the Rescue

2008-01-23T09:23:00.001-06:00

Okay, I know my few faithful readers may be tired of hearing about my success with homeopathy, but...

Last night I thought I was going to claw right through my legs, and tummy, and arms. I used some of the calendula cream (homeopathic remedy) and it calmed it a bit better than the hydrocortisone cream.
Then I remembered a specific remedy for uncontrollable, anguishing itching. It is called Cantharis. So I took some. I feel better, with a slightly dull sensation beneath the skin, which is much better than yesterday. I took another dose of it this morning, as the itch is beginning to re-emerge in places. So far so good. I'll let you know if it continues to alleviate the itch, or if it fails and I call the doctor in a frantic.

And so it continues...

2008-01-22T09:58:00.000-06:00

Still here. Still itching.

At times, it gets better. Last night I actually slept through most of the night. I guess the trick was soaking in a warm bath, then applying hydrocortisone cream to my legs and tummy before drying off. It seemed to help it soak in, and I slept until about 6 am without needing to reapply the cream.
At that time, I had Ronnie reapply the cream, but it didn't seem as effective as it had been last night.

Now, I have a rash all down my calves, on my tummy, on my breasts. Argh! It ITCHES!

This is torture.

Oops. Test results came back in the normal range--whatever that means.

Honoring Dr. King

2008-01-21T09:05:00.000-06:00

I submit to you that if a man hasn't discovered something he will die for, he isn't fit to live.--Martin Luther King, Jr.--

Update: Was feeling better yesterday, but am itching again this morning. Praying God will start labor, or the lab will call with results soon!

Still itchy

2008-01-19T10:40:00.001-06:00

Today, I am still itching, but in localized places. Namely behind my knees and on my neck and upper chest. My skin is red in those places from scratching so much, and it is painful.
Thankfully, I discovered some remedies that at least alleviate the itching and pain for a while, and cause no side effects. However, I still itch!
I researched the medication, Zantac, that the doctor prescribed me for acid reflux. The darn thing can cause something called Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy, or ICP for short.
ICP has a prominent symptom of ITCHING! Severe itching. There are other symptoms that I have that relate to ICP as well. Unfortunately, the lab tests will not be known until Monday. So, if I itch all weekend long, and end up with ICP, chances are, I'll be in the hospital for that emergency cesarean, instead of the planned one.
ICP can be dangerous for mother and baby.
I have, of course, stopped taking the Zantac, but so far, the itching has continued. I'll keep you all informed as to if and when the itching stops. Hopefully it will end soon. It hurts!

38 Weeks...

2008-01-18T09:36:00.000-06:00

10 more days until the cesarean. I'm itching all over, with no other symptoms. I have an appointment this morning. Maybe we'll have an early baby! (Probably not.) :(

Update:
The doctor drew some blood for labs, all concerning my liver function. The itching thing. She just wants to make sure nothing else is going on. May just be a phenomenon of pregnancy. Oh joy!
My prayer is that IF something is wrong the lab will call me right away and send me to the hospital for delivery. That would be great. I just haven't felt well, and I want this pregnancy over.
So. That's were I stand. Waiting on labs.

Sick AND Tired

2008-01-16T10:21:00.000-06:00

Okay, you know that great party I had on Sunday? Yeah, the one that exhausted me. Well, it made me sick.

Not that the food or fun made me sick, but the exhaustion lowered my immune system enough to catch the flu. Yup.
They call it "The Crud" around here, and I've got it. I'm much better today, hence the blogging, but yesterday I was miserable.

I awoke with a terrible headache, I thought my head would explode. So, my sweet Ronnie came home to take care of the kids, and hopefully he's gonna make it home today as well, as I'm not quite up to par.
Anyway, my whole body hurt, I was sleepy, weepy and couldn't catch my breath in a simple conversation. So, I turned to my homeopathic remedy kit!

I took a few doses of Arnica, but that didn't help the headache much, so I turned to what I knew, Tylenol. Once I had some bearing on my brain again, I realized I should have taken Mag. Phos. instead of the Arnica.
So, last night, when I started feeling hot, but was not running fever, intermittent with chills, I took good old faithful Gelsemium--which is specifically for the flu! In 15 minutes, I was washing a load of clothes and organizing Sofia's chest of drawers.
Maybe I over did it, cause this morning I'm feeling yucky again, though not nearly as severe. So, I think I've saved myself a long flu duration. I think I may have actually cut it down to a couple of days, instead of a full week.
I'll keep you posted.

A fun and exhausting day

2008-01-14T13:24:00.000-06:00

Sunday was my Baby Shower. From the amount of people who RSVP'd, we thought there wouldn't be a big turn out. Boy were we surprised! Pleasantly!

So, I've got lots of clothes for baby Sofia. Pretty pink, lavender, red, green, adorable clothes.
We got a portable swing, a bouncer (which had already been sent a few months ago), baby body wash, a really cool diaper bag, and lots of other great things too.

There were probably about 15 to 18 guests in all. They filled every chair in my house! It was great! I do LOVE a party.

Of course, as Lori used to say, "Every party has a pooper, that's why I invited you, party pooper, party pooper!"
That honor can go to one of two people who didn't act like they were having much fun until I opened the gifts they brought. Then, after oohing and aahing over their gifts, they were happy. Amazing!

Anyway. It was fun. I had a good time, and I am certain that those who were there for me and Sofia will reap great rewards in heaven!

I'll post pictures when I get them.

Saturday Morning Dreams...

2008-01-12T12:38:00.000-06:00

Yes. Again. But not me! Ronnie.
So here's how it went, in his words:

First, I was in a Suburban-driving through a parking lot, when several teenagers (young people/college students?) came at me, trying to get in. I was a little scared and drove away.
Next, I met my wife (peace) who was expecting some big celebrity (queen) coming to what seemed to be the hallway or entrance to a banquet.
We, me specifically, greeted them (celebrity/queen) as she and her party arrived, building great rapport.
Me and my wife got away in a plane. I told her about me being a little scared and she said, "I like to get away sometimes when I'm afraid. Sometimes I call my dad when you're not available."
We flew the plane up and down, left and right, while seeing several other planes in the sky. Also, we seemed to fly very close to other planes and trees, but we were not afraid, or we didn't fear hitting anyone.

37 Weeks, 17 days to go...

2008-01-11T10:32:00.000-06:00

Sorry for the pajamas, but I'm not feeling so good today.After two busy days, I'm drained. Wednesday, I was just tired of being in the house, and made a lunch trip to Ronnie's office. Then yesterday I had an ob visit. Gained a whole pound, to which my doctor said, "I'm not gonna bug you about it anymore. The ultrasound shows the baby growing fine."
I'd say, she was estimated at 6 pounds, 5 ounces last week!
She reminded me, should I go into labor, to head to the hospital immediately and call on the way. Yeah, right--I've been down this road before. You get to the hospital, 2 centimeters dilated, then twelve hours later, you are still only 2 centimeters. "Cesarean!" They shout with glee. Must have something to do with hooking up that IV full of money.

Anyway, no plans, of course, for a vaginal birth, but if it should so happen that way, I wont complain!

And, no offense to those who've had difficult labors, but don't tell me I'm lucky to not have to go through labor. Having 4 cesareans is no picnic! It is major abdominal surgery. The only good that comes from it is that sweet little child in my arms. Recovery is a pain. Literally.

Update::About that dream a few nights ago, the one with the car accident. The accident meaning a life change or upset==Ronnie was informed yesterday that his bosses are putting his job up for application. Meaning, they are giving his position to someone else.
Now, this doesn't mean he's losing his job. Far from it, he is the best salesman in the region, and they would be, for lack of a better term, stupid to fire him.
After our dream and it's interpretation, we realize that God prepared us for this. Looks like he'll be getting that much needed rest he so desperately needs. (His dream of the rest area was about being called to lead people to cleanse and repent, while he is in a time of rest!)
I love when God speaks to couples simultaneously. He was having dreams again last night, but Levi kept waking in pain, right in the middle of his dreams. He told me about them, but I was so exhausted I don't remember what they were.

Scary quotes...

2008-01-10T11:41:00.000-06:00

"...you and I together will work to remake this country and rebuild the world."

--Barak Obama

Dreams, Dreams, and more Dreams...

2008-01-10T09:00:00.000-06:00

The night after my dream a couple of posts ago, Ronnie had a dream.
He dreamed that we had a puppy in our house. The four kids and I were all in the master bedroom with the puppy, and when he came home, we asked if we could keep it.
Ronnie told the kids, "No, I'm not ready for that yet," (or something to that effect), and put the puppy out on the porch in the rain.

Then, this morning he has a dream that somewhat relates to my previous dream.
He is at, what seems like a camp ground (like a youth camp). His first thought is to not stay in the sun too long, or he'll get a sunburn.
People then begin coming to him, asking him where the bathroom is. He kindly takes them to the restroom. At this point, he realizes that he is most likely at a highway rest area, because the bathrooms are so big.
He even escorts one woman to the mens room. She ends up not using the bathroom, but continues asking Ronnie questions about scripture. Ronnie is happy to explain the scriptures she is inquiring about.

I must interject here, that we have been praying--rather vigorously--about where God is leading us as a family, and where He is leading Ronnie in his career. These dreams seem to be pointing somewhere, we are just at a stand still. It's so frustrating, yet exciting that God would bring us dreams after such a long 'dream silence.'

About Dream Interpretation

2008-01-08T09:07:00.000-06:00

I know some of you may be hesitant about the dream interpretation thing. Honestly, I know that it can be used by Satan. However, Satan tries to distort everything that God created. There is nothing new under the sun.

I you remember, the first mention of dream interpretation is in the Bible. The website that I used in the previous post felt safe to me. It did not seem to have any evil forces attached to it, that is the only reason I used it. Other websites, even ones labeled as Christian, felt demonic to me.

Not that I feel the need to explain myself, but the dream interpreted in the previous post just confirmed what our family has been going through.

More strange dreams...

2008-01-07T08:46:00.001-06:00

So, last night I had a dream. A very strange dream.

It all began as I walked out, what was apparently, our back door. I saw a snake on its back slithering away from the house, past the children--on its back! Weird. Well, I got an ax and began to chase the snake. It slithered away too quickly, even on its back, belly exposed, so I didn't get it.
I turned around to see a cat. A vicious looking cat that was white with gray rings around its body. It was pacing back and forth, much like a lion, and it seemed to taunt me. It had an angry look in its eyes and it glared at me in an even stare.
I took the ax I had in my hand, and swung it at the cat. I struck it behind the head, but did not cut the head off. The ax blade was so dull, I had to chop, chop, chop the poor cat's head off. Yet in my dream, I knew I had to do this to protect my family.
I went back inside the house, and it was night time. Everyone was asleep. Ronnie was in a room with Levi and 2 boys (teenagers) that I did not know. Ronnie showed me to the bathroom, and when I went in, it was strangely large for the house.
I, of course, had to wipe off the toilet seat. So, I then begin to prepare a bath, and I get a video message on my phone from Ronnie (neither of us have this capability on our phones currently) that he is in a car race. He has wrecked and his car is facing in the direction of the oncoming cars. He is near a cliff.
The teenage boys, mentioned earlier, take me to the race track and help Ronnie get his car turned around. The truck that Ronnie collided with falls from the cliff. I don't know about the other driver. [I must interject here, that Ronnie was driving a tan sedan-like car, while all the other cars were actual race cars with all their fabulous colors.] I get in the car with Ronnie, and we start home. I asked him what kind of race track this was, and he says it is for cars, but it looks like it is more for dirt bikes to me.

So, at 5 this morning, I awaken Ronnie with this strange dream. I assume it is because I had been studying Lechesis, a remedy made from buckmaster snake venom, the night before. Later this morning, Ronnie comes to my bedside and tells me to read Psalm 91. "It's about your dream," he says.

You shall tread upon the lion and adder; the young lion and the serpent shall you trample underfoot. Psalm 91:13

So, my only thought is that this pertains to the first part of my dream. The pacing cat is the lion, which I killed. I don't know what that means about the snake, or the toilet seat, or the car accident.

I can tell you that I have sat on too many wet toilet seats--with two boys (ages 8&7), and Ronnie works in a field where he drives a lot. Snake dreams, I know mean stress, but what about upside down snakes? Anyway, strange dreams!

Update::
I went to a dream dictionary and found that most of the elements of my dream are about anxiety, but more importantly about defeating an enemy and change. Looks like things are going to be changing around here. The website I went to was www.petrix.com/dreams.

This is the list of things I looked up, and their apparent meanings:
House--Financial security. Happiness within the family. Honor and dignity. Being.
Backdoor--Changes in life. Family arguments. Approaching money.
Upside down--overturned. confusion. great disorder. you want to straighten something out.
Snake--a snake ready to strike means treachery from one you least expect; killing it means victory over enemies.
Children--Innocence. The new self seeking to develop. Part of self nature is child-like.
Ax (weapon)--Violence. Conflict. Defense. Aggression. Seeking more power or fear of it.
Cat--a feminine aspect. Cats attacking you represent the enemies; if you succeed in banishing them, you will overcome great obstacles and rise in fortune and fame.
Night--Darkness. Mystery. Unconscious contents. There is a mystery that you want to penetrate.
Husband--partner. commitment.
Son--descendant. youth. projection of self. There is something that has been denied to you.
Boy (teenagers)--young power developing. Increase in the family.
Bath--cleansing. release. anxiety.
Cleaning--Restoration of order. Purification. Maintenance. Everlasting friendship.
Photograph (Video message)--Image. Record. Past. The way you see the world.
Tan (brown car)--freedom, success, money, and happy and long lasting union.
Car--personal power. ego.
Race--Speed. Rush. Missing something by being in a hurry.
Accident--Unexpected change. Upset. Life being threatened.
Cliff--Conclusion of affairs. Challenge. Aspirations.
Dirt (race track)--if negative, unclean; if positive, fertility. Discovery of lost valuables.
Driving (car)--work on energy and power. Looking for the desired destination.
Question--Call for reply. Controversy. Uncertainty. Expression of some doubts about something.
Talking--Conversation. Communication. Seeking for a way to express something.

Anyone interested?

2008-01-06T10:47:00.000-06:00

I am posting in a new blog these days. I just created it as an answer to those who wonder why tongues and healing are not prevalent in their own churches. Hopefully, I can address some of these questions. Please feel free to comment and ask questions. You can find this new blog here: Healing Tongues.

So please join me, this could get interesting!

Must share Home school banter::

2008-01-05T17:02:00.001-06:00

Go here and click on "A Homeschool Family."

I laughed out loud! Thanks Michawn!

Coming May 16, 2008...

2008-01-04T13:07:00.000-06:00

The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian

I am so excited about this second movie. It looks like another great story. I'm going to reread the book before going to see it, probably out loud to the children! What fun!

Check out the trailer here.

36 Weeks!

2008-01-04T08:46:00.001-06:00

Honestly, this picture doesn't look much different from my photo 4 weeks ago. Amazing! Usually by this time, I have such a big belly that EVERYONE is wondering why I'm still around. This has been a very different pregnancy all around though.
This week, I had another ultrasound. The doctor chastised me for not gaining weight. Trust me, if you knew my weight like some of you do, you would be laughing...hysterically!
So, I've got 3 weeks and 3 days left before that wonderful cesarean is scheduled. That's only 24 days! Can you tell I'm ready? Oh, so ready. The thought of jumping jacks and medicinal herbs has crossed my mind. But I'd rather have a healthy baby that an early delivery.

So, we wait. Wait for the passage of time. Wait for 24 days. Wait for Sofia.
The good thing is, however that in the mean time, I have appointments, homeschool and a baby shower to occupy my time. AND, the baby shower is at my place. I suppose I should do a bit of cleaning before everyone comes in, what do you think?

Nothing gained, nothing lost!

2008-01-02T09:44:00.000-06:00

So. Not a pound gained this week. Not a pound lost either.
The ultrasound this morning verified we ARE having a girl! Whew! All that pink stuff!

So, the midwife that I saw at the office this morning encouraged me to make a milk shake with Soy protein, ice cream and fruit. Even though the baby is gaining at a wonderful clip, and everything else looks great. Crazy doctors...and midwives.
I'm not going to eat crap just to gain weight and make the doctors happy. That would be stupid.

Anyway, as I told Tallahassee Lassie, it would be different if I only weight 150 pounds, but I weigh wayyyyy more than that.

Anyway, the midwife told me she would tell my doctor that we talked about it, and that I would eat.

Eat!!! I am eating. Crazy doctors!

27 Days to go!

2008-01-01T11:25:00.000-06:00

A wonderful neighborhood

2008-01-01T11:21:00.000-06:00

We live in this great neighborhood that has fireworks down to an art form. It must be competition or something, but every fourth of July and New Year's Eve, we enjoy the sights and sounds of fireworks. Right out our bedroom window!

We wake the kids and let them peer out at the beautiful colors of fire in the sky. They love it. it makes living in this home such a pleasure. We never have to travel far for a good fireworks display...just up the stairs!

HAPPY NEW YEAR, Y'ALL!

It all comes down to One

2007-12-31T08:50:00.000-06:00

So many people ask, "Are they all yours?" or "Don't you have a television?" or "Aren't you done, yet?"

After reading Michawn's blog this morning, I wanted to post my own column on this subject.

Baby five is on her way. When we told our families this, they were not excited. Well, at least not my folks.
Most grand parents are thrilled at one or two grand children. But then came three. Everyone hoped for a girl, and that's what we got! But then came four. The questions began, and the excitement of birth seemed to wane.
Guess how everyone, at least in my family, behaved when we announced number 5.

You got that right, "Another one?"

As if it were a curse. It is an extreme shame the way people look down on large families these days. "Children are an heritage of the Lord," says the Bible. "Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them." Why would I want anything other than a full quiver?

I suppose the answer to all these questions is about trust. Do you trust God? Do I trust God? Can I really rely on him to control every aspect of my life? It involves complete surrender...something we Americans do not like at all. Surrender?! I'll go down fighting, never mind any consequences from the battles.

As Michawn states in her post today, there are two sides to this camp. Maybe more.
One says trust God in ALL things, even fertility. Do nothing to interfere with God's plan for your life.
Another says you must act responsibly with your child bearing. Only have what you can handle, and cut it off when you've had enough (usually 2, 3 at the most).

I lean toward that first group. I once said I didn't want to have any more. Especially after having toxemia with the first two. I was done. Then God changed my heart. Now, I ask you, what would I have done if I had had a tubal ligation after number 2? I would have missed out on my little girl, then another boy, then this baby girl on the way. I would have voided God's plan. I would have cancelled the blessing he had in store.

Do I know for sure I want to stop my fertility here? No I don't. I have that sense of, "I'm done," but my heart says, "What if God wants us to have more?" What if I miss the mark here? What if taking fertility into your own hands has the same effect as taking your life into your own hands?
All Christians know that we live as God leads, not as we choose. To be led, means we must be willing to consult our God and follow Him. AT. ALL. COSTS.
But how do we do that? Especially in a society that shuns large families, for the most part.
The answer is: We are not our own. We must weigh the balance of serving and trusting God, with listening to godly advice. Honestly, I don't think there is any Godly advice out there that God can't give me himself. So the real answer here is: One.

It all comes down to One.

More strange dreams::

2007-12-29T08:50:00.000-06:00

Early this morning, I dreamed I was walking by a church building.
I heard praise music coming from within. I cannot recall the song, it was something I'd never heard before, but it was a 'war' song.
By 'war' song, I mean a song you would sing when going into a holy battle. A spiritual fight.

I went inside, only to find I had entered the choir loft. There was a young man singing the verses, and then the choir would echo. I somehow knew the song, and sang full voice.

When the song was over, I took a seat in the congregation, but alone, instead of with the people. I was kind of at a table by myself, instead of in the rows with the others.

The "adults" in the room where dismissed, but I stayed with this (what looked like) College and Career group.

Then I woke up.

Beloved says my dreams make total sense to him. Some kind of spiritual warfare I am going through. Seems that's what this pregnancy and this year has been about.

I pray that the dawn of the New Year brings victory over this battle!

35 weeks and all its glory!

2007-12-28T12:48:00.000-06:00

Well, here I am at 35 weeks. I only have 1 month (31 days!) until my scheduled cesarean.
This week I've been having strange dreams. The first was that at my ultrasound next week, I saw boy parts. I screamed in my dream. I cannot imagine how I would be able to return every thing and get all new boy stuff before the baby is born. Luckily, so far, that was only a dream.
Then, last night, I had a dream that I delivered at home, without any assistance. I verified that the baby was a girl, and she smiled at me when she first saw me. Ahhh, the crazy dreams of pregnancy!

2008 Resolution List

2007-12-27T17:33:00.000-06:00

1. Stop caring if people are interested in me. The only ones that matter are God, my husband, and my children.
2. Reclaim my health. That means beginning to lose the 100 pounds I need to lose. That means doing my own research on health and wellness. That means taking time for myself to pray and meditate.
3. Laugh more.
4. Enjoy my children every day.
5. Not let people look down on me because of my youth.
6. Get back on the Praise Team and sing my heart out!

Our beautiful Christmas

2007-12-26T08:42:00.000-06:00

Our children have never been the ones to wake us at 4 AM to open gifts from Santa, since we don't do the Santa thing.
So, here is how our day unfolded:

Ronnie and I woke around 7 AM. We headed down stairs, all the children still sleeping.
I began to prepare the pumpkin pie, and Ronnie prepared our cinnamon rolls for breakfast.
When all the kids were awake and downstairs, around 7:30, Ronnie served the cinnamon rolls.
We had prayer and thanked Jesus for being the first gift of Christmas.
The cinnamon rolls hot and yummy!

After breakfast, we all gathered around the tree. The children got to open the gifts tucked in their stockings first. Melody got hair stuff, the boys all got hot wheels.
Then for the other two presents from Mom and Dad:
Melody loved her Little Peoples Camping set, Levi was just as excited with his Mega Bloks Firetruck, Elijah was happy with his Crayola Color Wonder Set, and Ethan was thrilled with an Origami Desk Calander.
Then for their second, and most anticipated present:
Ethan and Elijah both got the K'nex I had purchased at a garage sale this summer. I think these topped the list of best gifts ever!
Melody got a fairy dressup costume, and
Levi got a toy screw driver, hammer and bolts and screws to go with it.

The children then got to play with their new toys for a couple of hours while Ronnie and I prepared for our guests to arrive.
At 11:30, my parents came with the food stuffs they had prepared. Too many pies to list, potato salad, brisket, and candied yams. I had already been reheating the baked beans I had prepared the night before (because they are always better the next day).
At about 12:15, my sister and brother-in-law showed up. I cannot believe the amount of weight my bil has lost in the past year. He looks so much like Charlie from Numb3rs!
Anyway, they just brought gifts, not a problems since we were loaded on food already.
Then just after that, my Uncle Robert, Aunt Kim, and cousin Amy came in. More pie!

Oh boy, so we had nearly everything ready, and at about 1 PM lunch was served. First to the children, who ate rather quickly and were mostly gone from the table before the adults had their plates ready.
We all had great conversation over lunch and when lunch was over, another round of gift giving and receiving began.

I wont bore you with the details, but much fun was had by all. The children continue to play with their new gifts, and the adults sat in conversation for a few hours in the living room. All the while watching home videos of Christmases past from Ronnie's youth. Quite a crazy bunch he was raised with!

It was a great day with laughter and family. I couldn't have planned a better day.

Merry Christmas, Y'all!

A note on Homeopathy

2007-12-24T11:19:00.000-06:00

Well, Saturday evening, I went to HEB to pick up a few items for our Christmas lunch that we needed.
During my shopping, I felt Sofia do a flip of some sort. Nothing painful at all.
When I got into the truck to leave, however, I must have squished her, because what followed had me crying before I made it home.

Just as I drove out of the parking lot, Sofia kicked me hard, right in the right hip--you know, right in my sciatic nerve!
"Ahhhhhhhh!" I screamed, as if a hammer had been plunged into my hip.
Again. She did it again! and again!
By the time I was half way home, I had my fist balled up between Sofia's feet and my hip, trying in desperation to limit the force in which she was kicking.
Ronnie called just about 5 minutes before I got home. I answered in tears, and let him go so I could put that fist back in my hip.

When I finally got home, I laid down on the sofa and tried in desperation to get her to turn, all to no avail. I did take some back pain remedy that Maria had given me, and it helped a bit with the back pain I was experiencing at the same time.

That evening before bed, I recalled what I had read about a transverse breech baby and Pulsatilla. I had some by my bed, and thought, "It's worth a try." So, I took a capful of the remedy and went to bed.

At 5 am on Sunday morning, I was awakened with violent movement. I couldn't sleep and got up to take a shower.
After my shower, I took another capful of the Pulsatilla, just to be on the safe side if it was working.

By 7 am, Sofia's feet were at the top of my uterus, and I had no pain. Absolutely no pain! Not in my back, not in my hip, not anywhere in my body. I felt better Sunday than I have the entire pregnancy. I had energy, and just felt wonderful.

I still feel that good today. I am not angry with my children, and in general high spirits. Sofia is still moving a lot, and once I feel her begin to get into a cradled position, I just take some more Pulsatilla, and she is back where she belongs in minutes.

So, the proof of homeopathy is in the specificity of each remedy. I was taking 'remedies' that weren't remedies for me. I needed Pulsatilla. So, now that I see the effectiveness of homeopathy, I will be sticking with it on a first aid basis.

Praise God he made such wonderful things to cure us, if only we will just research them.

Week 34

2007-12-20T19:50:00.000-06:00

Only 5 weeks and a couple of days left. I can't believe we are so close, and I still wish it were closer. The realization of how closer we are came to me when I made my next ob appointment. She said, "Two more weeks is January 2nd."
Wow! Already? "I'm just not past Christmas yet. When you have kids, the next big thing is all you're looking at!" I said.

Not too much to report this week.
I started taking Zantac for my acid reflux a couple of weeks ago. It has definately helped me sleep without being awakened by coughing from the reflux. I may need to take it twice a day to keep from getting the AR just before supper. ARRRRR...

Anyway, I'm feeling much better since I stopped the homeopathic 'remedies.' Actually, I've been researching things on my own and found that my friend was prescribing them all wrong. Of course, to her credit, it's hard for someone to get inside you head and really know how you are feeling, especially if they don't know you very well.
All that to say, I may begin taking a few remedies as symptoms appear during my pregnancy, and when it comes delivery time. There are remedies perfect for cesarean section recovery, and I want to recover quickly.

That's all I have for now. Hoping this Christmas is as blessed for you as it will be for us.

For Steph...

2007-12-19T21:24:00.001-06:00

Steph asked for a picture of me and Beloved, so here it is.

Lost one pound

2007-12-19T17:12:00.000-06:00

My obgyn is going nuts! She is concerned that after gaining 7 pounds at my last visit, that the one pound I lost in the past two weeks is going to negatively affect the baby.
So, in that light, I'll have another ultrasound. Reason: Poor Weight Gain!
I mean, if you've seen the scales when I weigh in each visit, you'd know that one pound aint enough to disturb the sanctuary that Sofia is enjoying.
One pound. Amusing.

So anyway, in two weeks, January 2nd, I'll have that ultrasound and see the nurse midwife that works in my ob's office. After that visit, I'll be going once a week. Yay! The end is coming!

Jolly Old Saint Nicolas, some of you will not like this post!

2007-12-18T17:26:00.000-06:00

Oh my, the glory given to a fat man in a red suit. Saint Nicolas himself may roll over in his grave.
We have turned this great Christian man into an idol.

"He sees you when you're sleeping,
He knows when you're awake.
He knows if you've been bad or good,
So be good for goodness sake."

I'm sorry, I thought, other than those in your household, only God could see you when you are sleeping, and know when you are awake. On the subject of bad or good, heck, there wouldn't be a Christmas if anyone was good!
The whole purpose of the very first, most important Christmas gift was because this world was so bad. We needed a Savior. And in His immeasurable love and kindness, God sent His only son as the very first Christmas gift.

Saint Nicolas knew this. He was a kind man that lived long ago. He gave gifts to the poor, without expectation of anything in return. The people found out and began giving gifts at Christmas time in his honor.
However, Nicolas gave his gifts in Christ's honor.

Doesn't the REAL reason for the season deserve our attention and affection this year?

Teaching our children that Santa is bringing them their favorite gifts, only if they are good, is a lie! It's and out and out lie, folks! On that note, God wants you to know that He gave you a good gift...even in your sin. Shouldn't we teach our children the same? As loving parents, we give good gifts to our children...even in their sin. Why? Because we love them, just as God loved us.

Santa has no place in our house this Christmas, or any Christmas for that matter. I pray you will reconsider how you celebrate this good man who never meant to become an idol.

Sorry, no pics...

2007-12-15T10:20:00.000-06:00

I didn't take any pictures of them 'opening their rooms,' but oh the joy of seeing the excitement on their faces as they ripped the wrapping paper off their bedroom doors and saw what Mom had done while they were gone.

Levi was first. He was exhausted and half asleep. He smiled at the 'Little Big Trucks' but was clingy and wanted to go to bed.

Melody was next. She ran right in, excited more about her toys arranged perfectly than the paint on the wall. Later I laid down with her, and she said, "I like the brown walls, Mom. Later you will make them pink." So much for her seeing the mauve color.

Ethan and Elijah waited patiently in the hall while Ronnie tucked Levi in bed. They were super patient. They tore through the door, turned the light on and said, "Yea!" Ethan gave me a big, big hug (his love language is giving) and Elijah just complimented everything in the room (his love language is words).

So, goal accomplished. They love their rooms, and while Melody may not be so excited about hers just yet, she will come to love that dusty rose color. I know it's not "little girly" but she wont be a little girl forever.

Aside from the events that took place last night at midnight, Levi fell out of his bed around 4 AM. Ronnie ran to his room, and found him in the middle of the floor, wailing.
He brought him to me, and I held him for a moment while he cried. He seemed so inconsolable. Then I saw him wipe his nose, I thought it was running.
To my surprise, he had fallen face first and busted his nose and lip. He was bleeding all over me. I sat him up and got him and me cleaned up, then he slept in the bed with me for the rest of the night. At around 6, Ronnie got kicked out to Melody's bed.
When the sun rose, so did Levi. He's had one bloody nose since, but I'm gonna really force him to down the chlorophyll. That will help the clotting, and give him a happy attitude!
We'll see!

This Week 'In The News'

2007-12-14T09:09:00.000-06:00

Okay, the moment you've all (all two of you!) been waiting for! First, a picture of what the walls in each room looked like before I painted. Let me just say, I've been living in this colorless house for over a year now. I am now inspired and thinking I can change the mood of the entire house if I just paint color on the walls! Now I am ready to paint the whole house, but first I need a break from my hard work.

Ethan and Elijah's room looks so great. Red on top, navy on bottom, it is a combination of their favorite colors. I will eventually put a great sports border between the two colors, but for now it looks great. Also note the coordinating bedding! I just hadn't put their blankets on yet.

Melody's Room is prettier than this picture lets on. It is a beautiful Dusty Pink Rose color. Beloved even likes it! (and he HATES pink) I can't wait until she gets home and sees her beautiful room. She's gonna love it!

This is the final product of Levi's room. So cute. The top half is a nice buttery yellow, the bottom is a royal blue, and in the middle is this great border I found at WalMart.com. It's called "Little Big Trucks." So cute!

Finally, here is my 33 week profile. She's getting bigger. Everything is starting to feel tight around my middle. I love this part of pregnancy, people really know you are pregnant, and not just fat or something!

So, things I've noticed this week, especially while the kiddos are gone:
more energy
better sleep
no aches or pains
slight tenderness in my right hip, that little Sofia has decided is her pillow
and, I am remembering to take frequent rest periods.

I began taking flax seed oil and chlorophyl this week. I also quit taking those homeopathic remedies when my friend said she would not tell me what is in them. "Isn't that why I don't take pharmecueticals?" I thought. I mean, doctors and drug manufacturers don't tell you all the ingredients that are in their drugs, and a homeopath is trying to get me to take her 'drugs' but doesn't want to tell me what is in them? I mean really!
Anyway. I feel much better, that may be do to the kiddos being gone, but I'm not achy like I was before. I'm going to work on getting more rest and more exercise. This week of painting has been refreshing and energizing. Forgot how actually moving out of one place can help you feel better!

End in sight

2007-12-10T22:53:00.000-06:00

Today I got a call from my doctors office from the lady who schedules the cesareans.
It is done. Marked on my calendar in BOLD RED INK :: SOFIA'S BIRTHDAY.

January 28th. Only 7 weeks from today.

Hallelujah. I see the finish line.

Exhaustion hits again

2007-12-07T14:47:00.000-06:00

So, after a vibrant week of cleaning and going, I'm tired.

Took a short nap on the sofa only to be interrupted by the UPS man. I really don't like UPS, they take too long to deliver packages.

Anyway. The kids leave tonight on vacation, and 6:00 can not come soon enough.

Week 32, 8 weeks to go!

2007-12-06T08:29:00.001-06:00

So we are down to 8 weeks. If you all remember (my few and faithful) I'll be having a cesarean around week 39, so really I've only got 7 weeks.

7 weeks! Yay!
This week, I noticed:
a bruise on my backbone that wont seem to go away.
colostrum
nasal stuffiness
a bit more energy (thanks for your prayers)
beginning of the nesting instinct (I got all the laundry done yesterday AND sorted out the kids clothes AND organized Sofia's hospital bag!)

Overall, I'm feeling more like myself this week. My confidence as a mom is returning, and I'm making supper again. That's most likely due to Ronnie's low check last week, but hey, whatever motivates, right? I don't feel out of control like I did a few weeks back. The kids are leaving on vacation Friday night, and I get a whole week to myself (part of the reason I did all the laundry).

At my appointment yesterday, I learned I had gained 7 pounds. In TWO WEEKS!
Yikes!
But, my dr is thrilled. "That's a total of 12 pounds!" She said with a chipper grin.
I don't like to gain weight, and if I could sustain this pregnancy without gaining a pound, I'd do it!

Another Anatomy Scan

2007-12-06T08:24:00.001-06:00

...or ultrasound, as we well know it. At the first "Anatomy Scan" Sofia was in a cradle position. The ultrasonographer could not get good photos or measurements of her brain or the bottom of her spinal cord.

So, we go back for the second scan today. Me and Sofia that is. Ronnie's coming home to keep the kids while I'm gone, then he's back to work.

I'll try to post a photo or two from the ultrasound this afternoon. Perhaps we'll get a good one of her face! I love those cute little face photos!

On that note, I'm NOT getting that 3D or 4D ultrasound. Have you seen those pictures?!!! They are scary. Sometimes half the baby's head looks as if it's disappeared, and the 'image' is hollow. Freaky!

Anyway, more this afternoon.

Update:
She didn't give me any photos! But, baby Sofia is probably going to be the biggest one yet. She is already over 4 pounds! Oh! My! Gosh!
That's bigger than Ethan was when he finally came home!

In search of a Dachshund

2007-12-05T08:10:00.000-06:00

Just this weekend, my Dad was awakened by a very real dream. All too real. His dream was that his beloved Dachshund, Shultze, was dead.
He awoke to a morbid scene, only to find Shultze still alive-barely.
He let the dog out, cleaned up the mess, but found him dead outside between his house and his neighbors.

No one is quite sure what happened. Shultze wasn't too old. Only 7 years, born in July of 2000. But for some unknown reason, he died. He was the last surviving of a pretty large litter. All the others had died from unknown causes, and Shultze is no different.

So now the search has begun. The search for a new puppy for my parents.
They had vowed not to get another dog for a while, but both of them are pretty shaken over the ordeal. They miss their miniature dachshund, and want another.

I always find it very interesting the type of dogs people fall in love with. My parents have this peculiar affinity for the miniature dachshund breed. Strange.
I, myself, am partial to mid-sized to large dogs. Perhaps that's due to my mid-sized to large family!

Lord, please help my parents find their new puppy soon. Amen.

The Romance Novel I'm reading

2007-12-03T08:24:00.000-06:00

Okay, so I really don't read romance novels. I've got a great one all my own.

However, I am reading my friend's blog, Michawn's Meanderings. She tells the story of how she and her husband got together.
It is amazing, and she is on Part 14 of the story. So, if you'd like a good romance, check out her blog. Be sure to go to Part 1. It is truly amazing and God-directed.

Meal Deal Monday

2007-12-02T14:30:00.000-06:00

The HEB grocery list:
Buy:
Natural Angus Beef Roast
Get Free:
Pillsbury Golden Homestyle Biscuits (assorted varieties)
HEB Gravy Mix (assorted varieties)
Fleishmann's Margarine 11.8-16 oz. tub or sticks (assorted varieties)
Fresh Express Spinach 9 oz.
HEB Soft Drink 2 L bottle (assorted varieties)
Ranch Style Beans 15 oz.

For our family of 6, we double this list. It saves us so much to shop at HEB, since all we need to buy is the roast. This is also an excellent dish for Sunday's, since you can put the roast in the crock pot Sunday morning or Saturday night and "cook" while you're out!

So, how do I throw this all together?

I will be putting both roasts into a roasting pan, which my mom bought me a couple of Christmases ago (Thanks Mom), with the gravy and water to cover most of the roast. I leave just the very top part of the roast showing above the water, then salt and pepper the top so its nicely seasoned when its done.
The Ranch Style beans will be heated and served as a side dish, and I will most likely make mashed potatoes (from the box) as a second side dish--not to mention they'll be great with that gravy!
The spinach will be tossed in some kind of dressing and served with the bread on the table for anyone who wants them.
And the soft drink will most likely be Dr. B, HEB's generic 'Dr. Pepper.'

There will be much enjoyment of this meal for my family, and I am certain they will all request seconds!

Let me know if you are shopping at HEB, and how you prepare this meal for your family!

Viewers Beware

2007-12-01T11:04:00.000-06:00

The Golden Compass is not what you may think. Please, please investigate this movie and its writer before you take your children to see the film at the theatre.
The press isn't telling you the truth about this film.
The author of the series, "His Dark Materials", cannot decide if he is atheist or agnostic. But in the end of this trilogy, God dies.
You can read the review at the Baptist Press here.

Week 31!

2007-11-29T17:41:00.000-06:00

Wow! Only 9 weeks to go. But if you consider I'll be having a cesarean, it's only 8 weeks. Woohoo! I'm so ready for delivery.
Although, lately, I've been able to feel exactly where her little rump is. She gets into this cradle position with her head in my right hip, and her bottom in my left side. She then extends her legs as hard as she can so as to kick me in my diaphram.
Sweet little girl, just like Melody!

Weekly dinner menu?

2007-11-29T17:01:00.000-06:00

So, I'm thinking about posting a weekly menu from the HEB meal deal of the week.

For any Texans out there reading this blog, you are familiar with HEB and the weekly meal deal. This week it's buy a roast (or something) and get lots of free stuff.
So, I thought about posting weekly for the meal deal, telling how I double everything for the family of 6, and letting you all enjoy the meal with me.
Some weeks, HEB has more than one meal deal. On those weeks, I'll make two dinner menus. That will give you plenty of ideas to mull over, and if you don't have an HEB, I'll be sure to list all the goodies that go into the meal deal for you.

So. Whatcha think?

Employees

2007-11-29T10:43:00.001-06:00

I was just bummed that we wont be able to get the kids very much this Christmas. Then I remembered that we need to buy gifts for all my Beloved's employees. Oh joy!
So, they may be getting some homemade brownies or something. Cause they'll be cuttin' into the kids gifts this year.