Food for Thought

4 months old

2012-01-22T21:52:00.000-06:00

I cannot believe it has been a month since I've posted! The past month has been busy and I am thoroughly enjoying this stage of motherhood!! More on that later ... for now, here's our little man's 4 month picture. Enjoy!

3 months old

2011-12-22T11:15:00.000-06:00

Week 12

2011-12-19T14:02:00.001-06:00

It's hard to believe Caleb is 12 weeks old already! On the other hand it's hard to remember what he looked like when he was tiny. Good thing we take a lot of pictures in this house!

This past week Caleb started taking fewer but longer naps during the day which have become somewhat more predictable. This has been such a blessing ... selfishly because I've
actually been able to get things done around the house and because Caleb is in such a good mood when he wakes up. It's so much nicer to be greeted with smiles and cooing rather than crying.

After 2 weeks of sleep training, which included the transition to his crib, we are starting to see progress. Last night we put Caleb in his crib at the end of our bedtime routine and he went down with one tiny protest/squeal, quietly kicked around for a while (we only know this because we spy on him with the video monitor), and was asleep until 2:00 AM. He slept from roughly 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM. After feeding him he slept like a champ until 6. Hurray Caleb for only waking up once!

I'm hoping all of this sleep progress that he's made is more permanent than the growth spurt he's going through! I noticed yesterday that his clothes are fitting a little more snugly ... and not just around the waist, which has been our main challenge ... but length wise they are getting more snug. Last time we went to the doc his weight was off the charts but not his height. I think he's making up for that now!

Josh and I are amazed at how much he grows, physically and intellectually, each week. This past week he has gotten A LOT louder, is experimenting with his voice, and loves to have your full attention. We went to lunch with an old work friend last week and it was the first time I noticed him crying just to get my attention. When he finally got my attention he would smile really big. What a stinker!

This past week we gave Caleb his Christmas present early ... a Bumbo seat! His neck and upper back has gotten so strong we were curious if he could sit in it alone and he has been doing great! In fact he loves to sit up and look around, and is becoming less content to lay down and "play." The first time we put him in his Bumbo was the first time he really acknowledged Ellie. I think it was mutual because she loves to lick him in the face when he's upright. And thankfully, with lots of practice, tummy time is getting better and I think he even enjoys the change in scenery ... even if Ellie comes and licks him in the face every now and then!

So that's been our week. We are looking forward to more adventures this week ... Christmas, traveling to see family, sleeping in a pack 'n play for the first time, being away from home for the first time (longer than 4 hours anyways).

Weeks 10-11

2011-12-11T20:57:00.001-06:00

I cannot believe our little one is 11 weeks old today! In one week Caleb will be 3 months old ... can that be right?! Wow.

This past week Caleb started noticing his right hand. He will go cross-eyed trying to get a good look at it and then shove his whole fist in his mouth. He spends most of bath time chewing on his fist, only his right one though. I wonder if he'll be right handed. Silly boy! He has also become enthralled with the Christmas tree and the lights ... but who can blame the kid, it is pretty!

Another new development is the kid can now break out of his swaddle pretty easily. We've tried the special blankets but he gets really mad if he can't wiggle a little and overheats pretty easily. So, we're in the scratches on the face phase. I always wondered why kids would have scratches on their faces and now I know why! Tiny sharp fingernails, no matter how skilled you are at trimming them, and lack of hand eye coordination.

One thing we haven't been great about practicing is the dreaded tummy time. Caleb is one of those kiddos who hates tummy time. We have tried every suggestion people were willing to give us from propping him up on a Boppy to getting down on his level to putting him on our tummies. Slowly by the end of this week we have seen some progress, as in he doesn't start screaming as soon as we flip him over. One step at a time!

This past week we also experienced our first cold. My amazingly sweet hubby got a sub for Friday so he could get up with Caleb Thursday night and take care of him on Friday so that I could get some rest. Unfortunately hubby woke up Friday morning with the same crud I was battling. Thankfully I don't think Caleb was affected any more than we were and has been a trooper. We finally tracked down a cool mist humidifier which I think has made a world of difference (cough is better, less sneezing, etc.). After a lot of rest this weekend I think we're all on the mend. Being sick with a kiddo is definitely an experience!

Here's to another exciting week with our kiddo!

Weeks 8-9

2011-12-08T15:52:00.001-06:00

Well friends I finally downloaded the blogger app so hopefully it'll make blogging one handed easier! The past few weeks have been a whirlwind to say the least!

Here's a recap from week 8 (the same week of Thanksgiving):
Caleb started smiling at the ceiling fan & chandelier, he laughed for 1st time, had gotten noticeably louder and way more vocal, started making different noises, will "talk" to you in other places besides changing table, is opening his hands a lot more and started grabbing things (like my hair) and won't let go, stated pushing up with legs when holding in standing position, wants arms free sometimes when being swaddled, can turn head side to side quickly, more neck strength, wants to look around more at things, in 3-6 month clothing. Whew!

Recap from week 9:
This week Caleb found his hands/fists to chew on (left one), working on napping in crib again, stretched feedings to every 3 hours, moved bedtime to 7:00 PM (bath at 6:30), likes to sit up assisted and look around, 2 month shots were on 11/29 and was a trooper, was fussy after a nap & gave Tylenol which really helped, has started routinely waking up to feed at 2 AM (full feeding) & 5AM (not always a full feeding), started sleeping in crib at night, had cradle cap really badly so started using Mustela foaming shampoo which worked like a charm (tried using olive oil but didn't work and was really hard to wash out of hair)!

Weeks 2-7

2011-11-15T15:58:00.001-06:00

milk coma

whistle face

thanks Aunt Allison for my A&M onesies

yup, that yellow speck is poop on the wall ... happens more than you think :)

Smelly Ellie likes to smell Caleb's diaper

Hendricks is enjoying Caleb's toys

tuckered out from a trip to Toys R Us

getting so big!

seriously ... how cute is our kid?!

started smiling at us at 6 weeks old

great card my mom sent me, so true so true

what ham ... weighed 14 lbs 3 oz at the docs at only 6 weeks old!

play time!

helpful advice

2011-11-15T15:45:00.000-06:00

Wow, it’s been a long time since I blogged last. So, hello to those of you who still read my blog! The past 7 weeks have been kind of a blur and I feel like we have been in survival mode for the first 6 of those weeks. People assured us that it would get easier after 6 weeks but one friend said it best, “6 weeks is kind of the low point and it gets better, easier from there.” I think she’s right! Towards the end of last week Caleb started sleeping for longer periods of time and going to bed before 9:00 PM. The first night he slept 5.5 hours I couldn’t believe it! I woke up after a couple of hours and had to check on him just to make sure he was okay. Thankfully another good friend talked us into a video monitor so all I had to do was flip the video feed on and I could see our little guy. It’s amazing what a 4-5 hour stretch of sleep, plus another 2-3 hours in the early morning can do for a person who has only been averaging 4-5 hours intermittently throughout the night!

The Lord has really blessed me with some incredible friends and for that I am so grateful. He has also blessed me with friends who have gone before me, ones that already have kiddos. I have been extremely grateful for their words of wisdom and advice. Some of the advice I have found most helpful has been …

- Owning a video monitor, it brings peace of mind.

- Buy a bouncy chair. It’s extremely helpful to have a place to set baby down and its light enough that you can plop it down anywhere in your house.

- Aden and Anais swaddle wraps … we honestly couldn’t live without these.

- Puddle pads for the changing table … another item we couldn’t live without. I’ve washed ours more times that I can count at this point.

- Take some time for yourself at least once a week. Leave the house and leave baby with daddy.

- If the kiddo won’t stop crying strap him/her in the stroller and go for a walk. The fresh air will do you both a world of good.

- If they won’t stop crying strap them in their car seat and go for a drive.

- Get out of the house at least once a day.

- When you and the hubby get up in the middle of the night, don't talk to each other. Otherwise you end up say not nice things.

The best and worst advice I received were one the same. Everyone told me to nap when baby naps … the only problem with that advice was that it seemed like every time I tried to lay down to take a nap Caleb would wake up, wouldn’t nap well that day, I would have a hard time falling asleep and when I just started to doze off he would wake up, etc. I would end up feeling more frustrated than rested on the days I told myself to nap when he napped. So instead I have given up the expectation that I will nap when Caleb naps, until we are on more of a set schedule, and if I can squeeze a nap in during the day it will be a delightful surprise! Personally I would tell a new mom to rest when baby naps. There are all different ways to rest without getting frustrated that you’re not sleeping during the day … you already have nights to deal with that frustration.

The other thing I have finally learned is that if you are schedule oriented like I am, since baby isn’t on a schedule, find a way to create some kind of schedule with the adults in your life. This goes for scheduling regular time off where your hubby takes your kiddo, scheduling play dates with other moms, scheduling grow up time with friends to have some adult conversation (even if you end of holding baby the whole time), when family comes to visit schedule their arrival and departure dates and let them know baby’s schedule (or the one you’re trying to implement). This has been one of the hardest things for me, not having a schedule, and now that we have one it’s taken a huge weight off my shoulders. I find that I have more patience with Caleb, my hubby, and our animals.

Someone’s up … pictures of Caleb week 2-7 are coming soon!

2 week pictures, 3 week recap

2011-10-16T13:53:00.000-05:00

Well, even though Caleb is officially 3 weeks old today (wow time has gone by quickly), these 2 week old pictures are better late than never I suppose. Needless to say this little guy has been keeping us pretty busy these days (and nights!).

To sum up the past 3 weeks, every day has been a new adventure that's for sure. Thankfully if one day and night have been rough, the next day and night is completely different and usually better. I'm now thankful for any 2 hour span of sleep I can get, and always wondered how little sleep a person can survive on, which I'm learning. I'm trying to sleep when he sleeps but sometimes he doesn't sleep, or its a choice between eating, taking a shower, or sleeping ... and in this case, blogging. Tough decision! I've been peed and pooped on more times than I care to admit, and the wall next to the changing table has taken its fair share of hits too (thank goodness for washable paint!).

Last week Caleb had his 2 week check up with our pediatrician and was circumcised. I couldn't bring myself to watch his circumcision but Josh was there with him and said he as a trooper. The pediatrician also jokingly asked us what we have been feeding Caleb because he weighed in at 10 lbs 3 oz. But then again, who's surprised?! He's got our genes that's for sure. Other funny resemblances we've noticed is that he sneezes twice, like me, and starts his smile on one side of his face (see picture above) just like Josh. He is also a pretty gassy baby (poor guy) and didn't quite know how to let go of it last week, so there was a lot of pulling up the legs and crying until he finally passed some wind. Once again, welcome to the family kiddo ... you've got your parents genes. He is also an incredibly warm baby. I always thought that babies like to be really warm, as in you'll need to put an extra blanket on them at night. Well, not our little guy. He likes to be swaddled all the time, so we don't dress him in warm clothes because he always has a blanket on him. However, I was a little concerned when he always seemed to be warm, or hot, as in ... sweaty baby hot. I asked the pediatrician about it and he said some babies are just warm/sweaty babies. Josh and I just laughed ... once again, welcome to the family Caleb!

So in short, that kind of sums up the past 3 weeks. Our house is somewhat put together (aka: doesn't look like a bomb has gone off), the laundry is done, groceries are in the fridge for this next week, animals are alive and adjusting to a newborn in the house, and we're starting to figure out life with a little one.

Thank you to everyone who helped clean our house, brought us meals, and encouraged us over the past 3 weeks!

pictures from the 1st week

2011-10-02T18:00:00.001-05:00


Saturday morning before labor

8lbs 11oz

meeting Caleb for the first time

family time after labor with just Josh, Caleb and I

Pops and Caleb (Laura's dad)

Mimi and Caleb (Josh's mom)

Grandpa Wilkerson - still working on a grandparent name (Josh's dad)

Uncle Jerry (Josh's brother)

getting ready to head home from the hospital

ready to head home

Ellie meeting Caleb

finally at home

Grammy and Caleb

hanging out with Daddy

all the cousins together (newborn, 6 months, and 2 years old)

Uncle Chris (Laura's brother)

cheering on the Braves

Daddy time

Mommy time

1 week old ... looks so tiny in his big bed

birth story

2011-09-30T18:43:00.003-05:00

The short version ...

20.5 hours of labor
Labor began Saturday, September 24th, around 9:00 PM
Caleb arrived Sunday, September 25th, at 5:32 PM
8lbs 11 oz, 21"

The long version ...

The week following up to Caleb’s arrival I was busy with my last week working in the Office of Admissions at Texas A&M University. Throughout the week I could tell my body was gearing up for labor as Caleb dropped even lower, cramping continued to become more regular, and there were several other telltale signs that I’ll spare you from. On Friday, September 23^rd, I left work for the last time and headed to my 39 week doctor appointment. I had my doctor check me since I had been having stronger and more regular cramping. However, I was a little disappointed to learn that I wasn’t dilated but my cervix was really thin.

On Saturday, September 24^th, I woke up with pre-labor contractions and a bloody show at around 7:00 AM. Excited and hopeful that today would be the day I would go into labor, I got up, ate some breakfast, and spent some time enjoying a quite morning with the Lord.

Throughout the rest of the day I had irregular contractions so we carried on like it was any other Saturday. Went to the grocery store, watched A&M loose to OSU, ordered Chinese food, and watched a movie.

Around 9:00 PM I started having regular contractions that were about 10 minutes apart so I took a warm bath, got ready for bed, and we got into bed around 10:00 PM. I tried to sleep through and in between the contractions but by midnight my contractions were around 5 minutes apart and too intense to sleep through. At that point I woke up Josh because I needed his help to work through the contractions. Moving through each contraction as they came we labored all around the house, trying every position they suggested in our Bradley class until we found one that worked. Let’s just say that I am so thankful for my birthing/exercise ball but am happy to deflate it and put it away for a while!

From midnight until around 5:00 AM we tried several different relaxation techniques, watching Friends (which was more of a distraction), laboring in a warm shower, listening to a Christian piano playlist (which played over and over and over throughout my whole labor, thankfully there were around 100 songs on the playlist), and praying, all the while focusing on each contraction as they came.

Around 5:45 AM my contractions became more intense and started to come every 3-4 minutes. At that point Josh packed the car with our bags and quickly ate some breakfast. I managed to eat some toast with peanut butter in between contractions and we got in the car to head to the hospital.

We arrived at the hospital around 6:30 AM. While walking from the car to the ER I had several contractions where I really had to focus and breathe through them. They checked us in quickly, and once in our labor and delivery room Josh went to work setting up a relaxing environment which included dimmed lights, music, and a fan to keep me cool.

Once we were all setup the nurse hooked me up to external fetal heart monitor which forced me to labor in bed for the next for 20 minutes. Laboring in bed was probably one of the hardest positions for me to labor in because my body seemed to be demanding movement. After 20 minutes the nurse checked me and I was 5 cm. This was a huge prayer answered because we really didn’t want to check into the hospital before I was 5 cm. This answered prayer gave me some renewed strength and encouragement to keep going!

Around 11:00 AM my contractions really became intense and started to come every 2-2.5 minutes. They checked me and I was at 8 cm which brought some relief because I knew I was in transition and even though labor was really intense Josh reminded me that the transition phase was the shortest, but hardest, phase. Josh did such an amazing job of coaching me through this stage by calling upon the Lord for strength when I thought the contractions were too intense and reminding me of the end goal: that we would get to meet our son soon.

They checked me again at 1:30 PM and I was still only 8 cm. Since my water hadn’t broken at that point they offered to break it for me hoping it would speed up my labor but warned me that it would increase my contractions. We asked to have a moment to speak about it and decided to wait a little longer. At 2:00 PM I went to the bathroom and had a contraction that made me have the urge to push. We called our nurse back in and they checked me again, I was still only 8 cm and nothing had changed. At that point, since I had been in transition for 3 hours, we decided to go ahead and have the doctor break my water to help get labor moving again.

Immediately after they broke my water my contractions became even more intense. At that point I couldn’t relax through my contractions, we tried every relaxation technique and every position we knew, and I felt like the pain was out of control. We talked to our nurse about pain options and she was really supportive, encouraging me to keep going, reminding me of our birth plan and goals, and suggested focusing on one contraction at a time for another hour.

At around 2:30 PM I couldn’t handle the pain anymore, was not progressing, and so we asked for an epidural. Again Josh was amazing. He was constantly encouraging me, telling me what an amazing job I was doing and that he was so proud of me for laboring so long naturally. At around 3:00 PM the anesthesiologist administered my epidural. The anesthesiologist himself was a prayer answered, not because of the drugs, but because of his professional yet kind demeanor. He was calm, explained things thoroughly, and didn’t overdo the drugs. He said his goal was to take off the edge of the pain but still allowing me to feel the contractions since I was so close to pushing. He did just that.

After the epidural was in place I was able to start to thinking clearly again. Josh phrased it well by saying that I came back to him then. The epidural did slow my contractions down to around 3 minutes apart so the doctor gave us the option of giving me a little Pitocin around 3:30 PM to start things moving again. She prefaced this option with saying that she didn’t want us to feel like since we gave them an inch in our birth plan, by having an epidural, that they were taking that and running with it … she just wanted to give us the option. At this point I had been in labor for 18.5 hours, was exhausted, and was still only 8 cm dilated, so we decided to go ahead and get things moving.

In about 30 minutes after the Pitocin, around 4:00 PM, I was dilated to 10 cm and started pushing. After 4 hours, the transition stage was finally over and it felt good to be able to do something productive during each contraction. If I haven’t said it enough yet, Josh once again was amazing. He coached me through each contraction, encouraging me, cheering me on when I was pushing, and giving me a status update on Caleb’s progress.

After pushing for an hour and a half Caleb was just sitting at +2 station and needed a little help so we okayed the doctor to use a vacuum, knowing she would only need to use it for 1-2 contractions. After one contraction the doctor cut a small episiotomy. With the next contraction, and help from the vacuum, Caleb made his grand arrival, lungs locked and loaded, at 5:32 PM. Josh cut the cord and followed Caleb over to the NICU nurses who had to suction out his lungs because he had swallowed some meconium in utero.

Seeing our son for the first time and the look on Josh’s face brought tears streaming down my face. A rush of emotions, too strong for words, came over me. The feeling of holding our son for the first time is something I’ll never forget. The Lord has been so good to us!

One a side note, I am so thankful for taking Bradley classes. Even though we weren’t able to have a completely natural childbirth, Bradley prepared us really well. The knowledge it brought, along with answered prayers, kept fear and anxiety at bay.

Praise for my husband:

I couldn’t have done, nor have wanted to go through labor without my husband. There were a lot of things that Josh did throughout labor that really helped. Some of those things included: timing contractions, keeping track of my emotional sign posts, physically being there for me through each contraction (constant contact, massaging, counter pressure, support to lean on, etc.), helping me focus on relaxing my body, reminding me to breathe deeply, reminding me of where we were in labor and that my body was working towards a goal, staying calm and relaxed, letting me defer to his best judgment of when we should go to the hospital, packing the car, reminding me to eat and drink and go to the bathroom regularly, setting up our hospital room so that it would be a relaxing environment (dimming the lights, setting up music and setting up a fan to keep me cool), calling on the Lord for strength when the contractions became overwhelming, and being the best cheerleader I could ask for when I started pushing. Josh was such a strong source of strength throughout the whole labor process and, if it’s possible, I am even more in love with him!

40 Weeks

2011-09-28T17:20:00.000-05:00

No belly picture this week as Caleb decided to make his appearance a little early. He is the sweetest little guy and we are definitely in love! More details on labor and delivery to follow.

Gymboree

2011-09-22T10:10:00.000-05:00

Last May my mom introduced me to Gymboree. That's where I bought baby clothes for the first time for Caleb ... on sale and with a coupon may I add! Since their boy clothes are just so stinkin cute, and its hard to find really cute boy clothes, I decided to sign up for their emails in order to receive coupons, etc. This was a dangerous idea! I'm seriously thinking of unsubscribing in order to resist the temptation!! Thankfully the grandparents and friends have stocked us up on clothes for a while, so I have no excuse. That was until today.

I received an email from Gymboree saying their "holiday" clothes are out and they have the cutest little outfits for Christmas. Little men clothes! So cute!! Look at the matching socks and little loafers.

On another note, I have to admit that I'm really looking forward to Christmas this year with a little one around. Last year while we were on a coffee/Barnes and Noble date, right after we had decided to start trying to have kiddos, we bought a children's pop-up Christmas book. I know Caleb wont really grasp the book but I'm excited to start this new phase as a family, to start our own Christmas traditions, and to teach him about Jesus!

39 Weeks Q&A

2011-09-21T07:00:00.006-05:00

How far along? 39 weeks down, ± 7 days left

Food cravings? granny smith apples and candy corn

Weird pregnancy symptoms? The other week I was drying my hair and noticed that it looked darker than normal ... and noticed a few more white hairs. So I decided to look back through some pictures of right before I was preggo to see if my hair really has gotten darker ... and you know what, I think it has! My hairdresser warned me that my hair would probably turn a shade darker after pregnancy but I think it has already started to turn. Pretty crazy huh?!

Baby movement? I feel like a broken record here but I think Caleb is officially out of room. And, thankfully my doctor thinks he has slowed down ... growing that is ... so we're just waiting for his arrival.

Something learned? Waiting on the Lord's timing can be a challenge sometimes ... but its even harder when people keep asking you what His timing is. I'm not sure that anyone can predict when their little bundle of joy will enter the world. Even if you schedule an induction or c-section I believe that the Lord is sovereign and in control ... He alone knows the time and birth date. For this I am thankful ... thankful He is in control. However, I am also challenged by this ... and continually find the need to hand over my thoughts, worries, and fears to the Lord. "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5-6).

I have also been challenged to respond to people's questions and concerns with grace. This has probably been the hardest challenge of pregnancy yet! Perhaps its because the waiting and not knowing conflicts with my scheduled oriented type A personality ... and forces me to trust in the Lord. I know people ask because they care about us and this is what I have to keep reminding myself. Looking back I wonder if I asked my pregnant friends the same questions I'm being asked. Food for thought.

Energy level? Again, I feel like a broken record here ... this is one tired pregnant lady! Since Caleb has dropped, and gotten so big, the weight of toting him around has put a strain on my back and makes sleeping difficult to say the least. Needless to say, I'm looking forward to a prenatal massage this week! Maybe a little acupressure during my massage will get things going :)

Best moment(s) from this past week? having brunch with some good friends this past weekend and talking about kiddos ... and getting to meet our Adopt an Aggie (a program through our chuch that places college students with families) Aggie!

Looking forward to ... being able to sleep on my back ... and drinking coffee in the mornings again

Psalm 121

2011-09-20T08:31:00.000-05:00

A song of ascents.

"I look up toward the hills.
From where does my help come?
My help comes from the Lord,
the Creator of heaven and earth!
May he not allow your foot to slip!
May your protector not sleep!
Look! Israel’s protector
does not sleep or slumber!
The Lord is your protector;
the Lord is the shade at your right hand.
The sun will not harm you by day,
or the moon by night.
The Lord will protect you from all harm;
he will protect your life.
The Lord will protect you in all you do,
now and forevermore."

38 Weeks Q&A

2011-09-14T07:00:00.007-05:00

How far along? 38 weeks down, ± 14 days left

Food cravings? honestly, none ... getting to the point where I'm tired of eating

Weird pregnancy symptoms? Thankfully the swelling in my ankles and feet has improved since making an effort to walk more, however, water retention has shown up in a weird place. Over the past 2 weeks I have noticed that under my stretched, hard, all baby belly, a jiggly patch of skin has shown up. Concerned with this growing "pocket" of jiggly-ness, I asked my doctor what in the world was happening ... she said it was a pocket of fluid and for some reason that is where my body is retaining water. As if pregnancy wasn't glamours enough at this stage, now I have a fat man's jiggly belly under my preggo belly. Awesome.

Baby movement? I think its official, Caleb is running out of room. I still feel him throughout the day but his movements definitely feel restricted and aren't as swift lately.

Something learned? how to install a car seat ... now we're just waiting on Caleb ... everything is ready, at least as ready as it'll ever be!

Energy level? nada ... although I have had spurts of energy, or perhaps they are just spurts of nesting ... either way its nice to be able to accomplish a few things

Best moment(s) from this past week? prenatal massage and just enjoying one of the last lazy weekends with my hubby

Looking forward to ... my face going back to its normal size, my last day in the office (September 23rd, or sooner if Caleb decides to arrive early), getting labor under way, meeting our little boy, watching my husband become a father, having my body back to myself, getting back into my pre-pregnancy clothes (I know this will take a while but I am so tired of my maternity clothes!!), and starting the journey of figuring out this motherhood thing :)

Week 38 of Pregnancy: Labor Preparation and Colostrum

2011-09-12T08:54:00.000-05:00

"Two weeks and counting (unless, of course, your baby decides to stay on for the tenth month…). Your body at 38 weeks pregnant, still a baby-making machine, is fast becoming a baby-delivering one too. Gearing up for the big day, it's going through many changes now in anticipation of labor: some you're aware of, such as your baby dropping into your pelvis (easier breathing, more pelvic pressure) and others that you probably are not aware of, such as cervical dilation and effacement.

While you're waiting for D-day to arrive, think of these last weeks as a dress rehearsal for life with baby. Sleepless nights, a little anxiety (or perhaps a lot of anxiety), leaky breasts. Huh? Leaky breasts? Yes, it's true: many pregnant women find that their breasts begin to leak colostrum sometime in the third trimester. Colostrum is a thin, yellowish fluid that is the precursor to mature breast milk. Chock-full of antibodies to protect your newborn baby, colostrum has more protein and lower fat and milk sugar (the better to digest with) than the breast milk that arrives three or four days after delivery.

Not all women experience leakage of colostrum, even though it's being produced in the breasts. If you're not doing any leaking, but you're still curious, squeezing your areola may allow you to express a few drops (but don't squeeze with a vengeance — that'll only result in sore nipples). Still can't get any? No need to fret — your baby will be able to when the time comes (if you plan to breastfeed). If you are leaking colostrum, you may want to consider wearing nursing pads in your bra to protect your clothes. And get used to it, too, since this is just a foreshadowing of increasingly leaky breasts (and wet bras, nightgowns, and shirts) to come."

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Information above was taken from http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/your-body/week-38/colostrum.aspx?xid=nl_YourDailyNewsletterfromWhattoExpect_20110912

37 Week Q&A

2011-09-07T08:21:00.000-05:00

How far along? 37 weeks down, ± 21 days left

Food cravings? sweets and baked goods

Weird pregnancy symptoms? new this past week ... swelling! Yup, its official ... if I'm on my feet too much my legs and feet start to blend into one ... cankles anyone?! And with Caleb heading south and all the additional weight pressing down, my legs and feet fall asleep more often AND (yes, I'm about to post this on the interwebs) hemorrhoids!

The good news is that getting prenatal massages are really helping my hips, back, and sciatic nerve pain. Hurray! Which means longer periods of sleep at night ... as in a 2 hour stretch instead of 30 minute stretches!!

Baby movement? rolling and swishing are the norm these days ... he was rocking out so much during our doctor's appointment last week that his heart rate was 160 (normally around the 140s)!

Something learned?
1) According to my doctor I am feeling two different "types" of contractions. The contractions I'm feeling across my upper belly are different that the cramping (think menstrual cramps) I'm feeling lower, but the lower cramps are really the only productive ones.

2) When I say the word contractions the majority of people look at me really weird or wince when I say the word. I guess I probably reacted the same way before I started learning about Braxton Hicks, pregnancy, etc. Right now they don't hurt and somehow knowing the lower cramping ones are productive make them a little more exciting. Come on Caleb!

Energy level? I know I've said this before, but this is probably the most frustrating part of pregnancy for me ... the lack of energy. Yes, probably more or equal to "morning" sickness and the lack of sleep. Its an exhaustion that's like no other and completely destroys my weekend to-do lists. Oh the other hand, my to-do list these days is selfishly mostly for me ... things I enjoy doing, projects, gardening, walking the dog, crafts, ways to relax, unwind, etc., with the occasional load of laundry :)

Best moment(s) from this past week? enjoying some free time with my hubby, going on a date to the movies, and just hanging out

scripture for labor and delivery

2011-09-06T09:00:00.001-05:00

"Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory" (Colossians 1:1-4).

With only ±22 days until baby Caleb arrives I have really been trying to focus (harder to do when pregnant, focus that is) on the Lord instead of the clock. I was joking with a colleague the other day that I feel like a ticking time bomb. Instead of focusing on the when will he come aspect, my hope and prayer is that over the next few weeks I will be able to focus on the truths of the Lord and what His Word says about Himself.

Also, in preparation for labor and delivery I have started to put together a list of scripture that I think might be helpful to focus on instead of thoughts of fear or anxiety that might try and creep into my brain. Below is the beginning of my list. Any suggestions?

Deuteronomy 8:1-10, 16
Deuteronomy 10:17, 20
Psalm 4:1, 4-5, 8 (answer my call, trust)
Psalm 18:28, 30-33 (light, refuge, rock)
Psalm 27:1, 7-8, 13-14 (hear my cry)
Psalm 30:5 (weeping – night, joy – morning)
Psalm 31:3-4, 24 (lead me, strength)
Psalm 34:4 (He answered me)
Psalm 40:1-4a (wait patiently, heard my cry)
Psalm 46 (strength, help)
Psalm 51:10-12 (steadfast spirit, sustain me)
Psalm 55:1-8 (answer me)
Psalm 61:1-4 (refuge, shelter, hear my cry)
Psalm 63:1-8 (seek You, You have been my help)
Psalm 73:25-28 (nearness of God is my good)
Psalm 121 (help comes from the Lord) **
Psalm 130 (wait, hope, cried out – heard)
Psalm 139 (God has searched and known me): 1-5, 7-12, 13-14, 24b **
Psalm 145:17-19 (nearness of God)

36 Weeks Q&A

2011-08-31T06:00:00.007-05:00

How far along? 36 weeks down, ± 28 days left

Food cravings? oreos last weekend ... just plain jane oreos, yum!

Weird pregnancy symptoms? Thankfully a massage last week helped my sciatic nerve pain tremendously! Last weekend I started having more Braxton Hick contractions, probably due to being dehydrated ... I seriously feel like I cannot drink enough water these days. I blame the heat!

Also, Caleb has really dropped this past week. My belly button seems to be migrating north as he is moving down. Lets just say that walking, getting up from a chair or sofa, and/or getting out of the car is becoming ... comical. Just imagine strapping a watermelon to your lower belly and trying to move around. Yeah, believe me its a pretty sight. Thankfully due to Caleb dropping a lot last week I haven't had acid reflux as badly and have had more room to breathe. I've read that babies start to drop 2-4 weeks before delivery ... so hopefully that means we're right on track!

Baby movement? still lots of rolling and little jabs here and there

Something learned? Caleb loves rocking out in my belly during worship on Sunday mornings! I think its his way of making a joyful noise to the Lord :)

Nursery progress? We are DONE! Yippie! You can see pictures here, http://laurawilkerson.blogspot.com/2011/08/calebs-room.html.

Energy level? nada ... zip ... zero ... zilch ... especially on Mondays

Best moment(s) from this past week?
1) Spending time with my hubby last weekend ... I am so thankful the "free" weekends we have before Caleb comes where we can soak up one-on-one time with each other.
2) Getting to have lunch with a good friend and her adorable son, both of whom I haven't seen in a long time!
3) Getting to have coffee with a good friend and chat about motherhood, challenges, joys, etc. What an encouragement to have godly women to seek advice from!
4) Church, especially worship, this past weekend. All of the college students are back and its so fun to be around them!

the news is out

2011-08-30T15:43:00.000-05:00

Well, the news is out! Effective September 23rd, or sooner if Caleb decides to grace us with his presence earlier, I will be a stay at home mom. And once we have a routine established ... stay at home mom and part-time photographer. While I will miss the friendships I have made during my time in the Office of Admissions at Texas A&M, I am so excited for this next stage of life and feel blessed to be able to stay home with Caleb!

Caleb's room

2011-08-28T13:27:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned in my previous post, Caleb's room is finished! Now we're just waiting on him to arrive. As promised, below are some pictures of his room.

35 Weeks Q&A

2011-08-24T10:01:00.001-05:00

How far along? 35 weeks down, ± 35 days left

Food cravings? cant really think of anything out of the ordinary this week

Weird pregnancy symptoms? sciatic nerve pain starting in my left lower back and shooting down my left leg, the good news ... our doctor said it should go away after Caleb is born ... the bad news, I'll just have to suck it up until then

Baby movement? still lots of rolling ... sometimes so swiftly that it takes my breath away

Something learned? I really shouldn't read pregnancy books before bed ... talk about restless sleep full of very weird and strange dreams.

Nursery progress? Well folks, we are done! DONE DONE DONE! Pictures are forthcoming.

To-Do = DONE
~~1. paint the crib~~
~~2. paint Caleb's room~~
~~3. order and hang Caleb decal with scripture~~
~~4. sand, prime, and paint the dresser/changing table~~
~~5. paint the glider and ottoman~~
~~6. buy fabric and refinish glider and ottoman cushions~~
~~7. paint the drapery rod, hang rod and drapes~~
~~8. paint and hang the floating shelf~~
~~9. organize closet~~
~~10. buy a bookshelf from Ikea, put together~~
~~11. buy supplies for math mobile, put together, hang mobile~~
~~12. put together stroller~~
~~13. finish buying necessities~~
~~14. wash clothes, sheets, bedding, etc.~~

Energy level? I am running on empty these days. Here's to only 4.5 weeks left on the job before Caleb comes (unless he decides to come early)!

Best moment from this past week? finishing the nursery ... and hearing some exciting news from some of our close friends!!

a little evening project

2011-08-22T17:00:00.001-05:00

Thanks to a new camera and an upgraded version of Photoshop the project below took 1/3 of the time it would have normally taken me. Hurray for upgraded equipment!! The project has to do with my hubby's first algebra 2 lesson that he taught today. To quote his students last year, "Mr. Wilkerson is a baller."

one of those Mondays

2011-08-22T11:06:00.000-05:00

Well, it has been one of those Monday. You know the kind ... the one with all of the unexpected distractions that cause you to be late to work and make you wonder what the rest of the week will hold.

This morning our poor puppy Ellie started throwing up at 5:30 AM, right before my hubby's alarm was supposed to go off (what a way for him to start a new school year of teaching). So while he got in the shower, I grabbed the carpet cleaner and started cleaning up her mess. Then I did the only reasonable thing and crawled back in bed for another half hour. Not long after Josh headed out the door for work, right after I sat down with my bowl of oatmeal and Bible, I noticed Ellie slinking around. I managed to barricade her in the kitchen with me, much easier to clean up than the carpet, and waited. After about 10 minutes of slinking around she threw up again, except this time it was bloody. TMI? Welcome to my Monday. So I called the vet's office, emailed my boss to let her know I would be late, finished getting ready for work, loaded myself and Ellie up in the car, dropped her off at the vet (poor puppy!), and was only 15 minutes late to work. What a morning!

I am so thankful for God's Word for the strength and peace it brings. I could have gotten bent out of shape pretty quickly at the way my morning was turning out, trust me that it crossed my mind. But in the brief time I was able to eat my breakfast and drive into the Word, I was reminded of Colossians 3:12-17.

"So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father."

What a good reminder ... whatever I do, in word or deed, that I'm to do it ALL in the name of the Lord Jesus, and I'm to do it giving thanks.

Week 34 Q&A

2011-08-17T09:15:00.000-05:00

How far along? 34 weeks down, ± 42 days left

Food cravings? ice cold watermelon and cherry limeades with extra limes

Weird pregnancy symptoms? after driving to and from Dallas last weekend there have been all sorts of weird body aches and pains ... I'm sure I'll appreciate the hormone relaxin when delivering but for now its reeking havoc on my hips

Baby movement? lots of rolling ... our doctor confirmed that he is head down, which is a good thing, and should be a good size baby (hopefully that means a good sleeper and eater!!)

Something learned? I'm done traveling until after Caleb comes (see weird pregnancy symptoms above).

Nursery progress? Last weekend my mom helped me refinish the glider and ottoman cushions and they look great! AND that was the last big project we needed to complete in Caleb's room. Over the past couple of days I have also managed to wash, fold, and put away all of Caleb's clothes, bedding, towels, etc. How in the world do you fold baby clothes anyways? They are so tiny and cute!!

I have to make a confession, I love going into Caleb's room and just sitting in there. There is a sense of peace and relaxation when I'm in there. When I look around at the things in his room I'm reminded of the prayers, and even some sweat, that went into refinishing his crib and dresser. I'm also reminded to continue to pray for the man he will become when I look at the decal above his crib that quotes Numbers 14:24. Everything in his room has been intentional, prayed about, thought about ... and I love that.

To-Do:
~~1. paint the crib~~
~~2. paint Caleb's room~~
~~3. order and hang Caleb decal with scripture~~
~~4. sand, prime, and paint the dresser/changing table~~
~~5. paint the glider and ottoman~~
~~6. buy fabric and refinish glider and ottoman cushions~~
~~7. paint the drapery rod~~, hang rod and drapes
~~8. paint and~~ hang the floating shelf
~~9. organize closet~~
~~10. buy a bookshelf from Ikea, put together~~
~~11. buy supplies for math mobile, put together,~~ hang mobile
~~12. put together stroller~~
~~13. finish buying necessities~~
~~14. wash clothes, sheets, bedding, etc.~~

Energy level? I know I've said it before, but going home over lunch and taking a quick nap has become essential to making it through the afternoon.

Best moment from this past week? Josh and I feel completely blessed by the two baby showers that were thrown for us this past week. The first one was a work baby shower and the second one was thrown by my mom's friends in Colleyville. Through both showers the Lord really blessed us by the generosity of others and helped complete all of the necessities, and non-necessities, for Caleb's room. With only 6 weeks to go, it feels like a huge weight has been taken off knowing that all we have left to do is wait for Caleb to come!

Week 33 Q&A

2011-08-10T09:01:00.000-05:00

How far along? 33 weeks down, ± 49 days left

Food cravings? ice cold watermelon

Weird pregnancy symptoms? heartburn that just wont quit and sciatic nerve pain on my left side (which makes sitting for long periods of time tough ... but at least I have my exercise ball to sit on at work!!)

Baby movement? About the same as last week. It seems like Caleb has the hiccups at least once every day, poor little guy. And as my belly is getting bigger his rolling movements can be seen really clearly from the outside. So fun!

Something learned? I have amazing and extremely encouraging friends! Thanks to everyone who encouraged me after my last "I feel like a beach ball" post!!

Nursery progress? We are officially kicking things into high gear and hope to have Caleb's room put together within the next 2 weeks. Thankfully we are almost there! This past weekend we put together Caleb's math mobile and now just need to hang it up. I also made a pile of clothes to wash for Caleb's arrival ... now to do some laundry.

To-Do:
~~1. paint the crib~~
~~2. paint Caleb's room~~
~~3. order and hang Caleb decal with scripture~~
~~4. sand, prime, and paint the dresser/changing table~~
~~5. paint the glider and ottoman~~
~~6. buy fabric &~~ refinish glider and ottoman cushions
~~7. paint the drapery rod~~
~~8. paint and hang the floating shelf~~
~~9. organize closet~~
~~10. buy a bookshelf from Ikea & put together~~
~~11. buy supplies for math mobile, put together &~~ hang mobile
~~12. put together stroller~~
13. finish buying necessities
14. wash clothes, sheets, bedding, etc.

Energy level? Last weekend I wasn't feeling so great ... I think the heat is finally catching up with me ... so I rested a lot, took a long nap each day, read some books, and caught up on some small projects. I am so thankful for that time because it has made this week go so much smoother. Maybe this should go under the something learned category but I have learned that when I over do it on the weekends, the work week is extremely taxing physically and emotionally.

Best moment from this past week? getting a prenatal massage and catching up with an old friend who I haven't seen in almost a year!

some thoughts on pregnancy

2011-08-08T11:01:00.000-05:00

Well my friends, its official ... I've hit that point in pregnancy where I'm uncomfortable all of the time, the heat is getting/has gotten to me, and I've puffed out like a beach ball (or at least my face and fingers have). Add all of that up and it makes being joyful a challenge.

Just for some icing on the cake, people say some pretty insensitive things to pregnant women. I know I've heard this before but when the hormones are raging, and they say them to you, its hard not to take them personally. Here are some of my personal favorites, and more recent comments ...

"When are you due?"
"At the end of September. Only 7 weeks left."
"Oh wow! You poor thing!"

"You look like your going to pop!"

"Aw, look how big you've gotten."

"You're HUGE!"

"Your baby is going to be a big one!"

"So when are you going to be induced." or "Have you scheduled an induction?"

"Be prepared not to sleep." or "Enjoy your sleep now."

To focus on something more positive ... I am so thankful that up until the past week I have felt pretty good, can start to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and have an amazing husband who picks up the slack for me and shows me compassion (even when I'm whining). I'm also thankful that God, in His perfect plan, made the end of pregnancy "uncomfortable" because it has lessened my anxiousness when thining about delivery and increased my excitement of meeting our little boy. These are the things I am choosing to focus on ... giving thanks to Him for His blessings!

Week 32 Q&A

2011-08-03T13:03:00.000-05:00

How far along? 32 weeks down, ± 56 days left ... we have rounded 3rd and are headed for home people!

Food cravings? nilla wafers ... especially around 2:00 PM

Weird pregnancy symptoms? So the list is about the same as last week ... heartburn, achy hips and back, and occasional nausea in the evenings. The new one for this week is stretch marks, or I like to refer to them as battle wounds. I suppose it could be worse, I have just now noticed some on my belly, and for good reason as Caleb is growing quickly these days. Some of my pregnancy books have said that he'll grow 1/3 to 1/2 of his birth weight in the next 8 weeks!

Baby movement? Hiccups ... lots of them! I can feel Caleb pretty much all the time now, which is fun ... except when he's kicking me in my bladder. Poor little guy is running out of room. I know I said this last week, but my belly feels like it is stretched out to the max! And we have 8 weeks left ... really?!

Something learned? Sitting on an exercise ball at work, instead of my desk chair, does wonders for my hips and back and allows me to sleep at night! Hurray!

Nursery progress? Last week we successfully put together the stroller and purchased supplies for a math mobile that we'll hang above Caleb's crib. Josh also put the finishing coat of paint on the floating shelf, glider, and ottoman. We only have a few things left!!

To-Do:
~~1. paint the crib~~
~~2. paint Caleb's room~~
~~3. order and hang Caleb decal with scripture~~
~~4. sand, prime, and paint the dresser/changing table~~
~~5. paint the glider and ottoman~~
~~6. buy fabric &~~ refinish glider and ottoman cushions
~~7. paint the drapery rod~~
~~8. paint and~~ hang the floating shelf
9. organize closet
~~10. buy a bookshelf from Ikea & put together~~
~~11. buy supplies for math mobile,~~ put together mobile
~~12. put together stroller~~

Energy level? Umm, energy ... what's that?! A good friend responded to my lack of sleep comment by telling me that people told her when she was pregnant to get as much sleep as she could because once the baby arrived, forget sleeping. Her response was, people should have told me to get as much sleep as I could before getting pregnant! All I have to say to that is amen! Thankfully, I have an amazing husband who has filled in and picked up my slack around the house!!

Best moment from this past week? Spending the day with my hubby this past Saturday! We drove down to Houston to pick up my new camera (another highlight!!) and had lunch at Maggiano's (yum!). I am really cherishing these alone times when we can just soak up each others company ... there are only a handful of weekends left before Caleb comes that we'll be able to just take off for the day.

James 1:19-25

2011-08-02T10:13:00.000-05:00

"This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God. Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does" (James 1:19-25).

in need of new subjects

2011-07-31T20:41:00.000-05:00

Houston we have a problem ... I have a new camera! Which means there's not enough time to play around and get everything else done ... and our poor animals are getting harassed once again. I have a feeling Caleb is doomed too :)

Farther Along by Josh Garrels

2011-07-29T13:41:00.000-05:00

Farther Along

Farther along we’ll know all about it
Farther along we’ll understand why
Cheer up my brothers, live in the sunshine
We’ll understand this, all by and by

Tempted and tried, I wondered why
The good man died, the bad man thrives
And Jesus cries because he loves em’ both
We’re all cast-aways in need of ropes
Hangin’ on by the last threads of our hope
In a house of mirrors full of smoke
Confusing illusions I’ve seen

Where did I go wrong, I sang along
To every chorus of the song
That the devil wrote like a piper at the gates
Leading mice and men down to their fates
But some will courageously escape
The seductive voice with a heart of faith
While walkin’ that line back home

So much more to life than we’ve been told
It’s full of beauty that will unfold
And shine like you struck gold my wayward son
That deadweight burden weighs a ton
Go down into the river and let it run
And wash away all the things you’ve done
Forgiveness alright

Chorus

Still I get hard pressed on every side
Between the rock and a compromise
Like the truth and pack of lies fightin’ for my soul
And I’ve got no place left go
Cause I got changed by what I’ve been shown
More glory than the world has known
Keeps me ramblin’ on

Skipping like a calf loosed from its stall
I’m free to love once and for all
And even when I fall I’ll get back up
For the joy that overflows my cup
Heaven filled me with more than enough
Broke down my levee and my bluff
Let the flood wash me

And one day when the sky rolls back on us
Some rejoice and the others fuss
Cause every knee must bow and tongue confess
That the son of god is forever blessed
His is the kingdom, we’re the guests
So put your voice up to the test
Sing Lord, come soon

Chorus

creditsfrom Love & War & The Sea In Between, released 15 June 2011
Vocals, Guitar, Organ, Piano, Dobro, Electric Guitar, and Drum Sequencing by Josh Garrels
BGV by Annalisa Nutt
Accordion and Bass by Jay Kirkpatrick
Electric Guitar 2 by Scott Frantz

Week 31 Q&A

2011-07-27T08:25:00.000-05:00

Sorry folks for not posting a Q&A for week 30. I was in Austin spending some much needed girl time with these lovely ladies! What a treat it was to spend a couple of days with good college girlfriends!!

How far along? 31 weeks down ... only 63 days left

Food cravings? I'm tired of eating ... ever feel like that? Where nothing sounds appealing? Probably has something to do with heartburn :)

Weird pregnancy symptoms? heartburn (from just about everything), achy hips, braxton hicks contractions, and occasional nausea in the evenings (who knew it could come back?!) ... I'm finally at the point where I'm uncomfortable most of the time. On the bright side, it has taken 31 weeks to get to this point and we're on the home stretch!

Baby movement? Caleb isn't punching so violently anymore but I do feel him rolling around more often throughout the day. I think he had a growth spurt over the past two weeks and is running out of room! My belly feels like it is stretched out to the max!!

Something learned? Austin drivers are crazy! and riding in the car for longer than 2 hours at a time is rough on this pregnant body!

Nursery progress? Lots! We are so close to being finished and I couldn't be happier with how his room has turned out!!

To-Do:
~~1. paint the crib~~
~~2. paint Caleb's room~~
~~3. order and hang Caleb decal with scripture~~
~~4. sand, prime, and paint the dresser/changing table~~
~~5. paint the glider and ottoman~~
6. ~~buy fabric &~~ refinish glider and ottoman cushions
~~7. paint the drapery rod~~
~~8. paint~~ and hang the floating shelf
9. organize closet
~~10. buy a bookshelf from Ikea & put together~~

Energy level? Well, the 2-3:00 PM sleepies are now accompanied by the cant wake up in the morning sleepies. Now I know why pregnant ladies talk about taking 2 naps sometimes ... too bad work gets in the way!

Best moment(s) from this past week? Where do I begin?! There have been a lot of great things that happened over the past week. I had another prenatal massage, spent some time with my sister-in-law just hanging out and being girls, saw my nieces, hugged my brother, got a pedi, spent 3 days with my old college girlfriends in Austin for a girls getaway and caught up on life, went shopping, ordered room service, ate cupcakes, got a mani, laughed a lot!!!, turned 28 [sigh], husband made me a birthday cake [yum], took a couple of long naps, and just enjoyed some free time (I've been told to soak up "free" time now while I still can ... so I'm doing just that!).

update on decorating Caleb's room (progress!)

2011-07-18T14:57:00.000-05:00

In some ways I cant believe its been 2 months since we started brainstorming ideas for Caleb's room and purchased his crib off Craigslist.

About a month ago we finally picked out the paint color and painted Caleb's room. Last week Josh put the final coat of paint on the dresser. Hurray, progress!

With the huge help of my in-laws, we crossed off a ton of things from our to-do list this past weekend ... including moving the crib and dresser into Caleb's room, hanging up the wall decal, putting the first coat of paint on the glider and ottoman, and painting the kitchen. Whew! What a productive weekend!

Last night and this morning I just went and sat, on the floor, in Caleb's room. It feels peaceful in there to me ... a place to be quite and pray for this next stage of life ... and more real now that things are almost pulled together.

We cant wait to meet our son!

pregnancy cartoon

2011-07-14T13:31:00.000-05:00

... this cartoon just about sums it up ... good thing I have a hubby who will either make me laugh or give me a hug just when I need it the most!

Week 29 Q&A

2011-07-13T08:27:00.000-05:00

How far along? 29 weeks down, 11 weeks left ... cant wait to meet our sweet baby boy!

Food cravings? sweets

Weird pregnancy symptoms? leg cramps (I had my first one on Monday night ... woke me up from a dead sleep!), and the heartburn continues

Baby movement? Caleb is getting stronger every day! Thankfully he hasn't woken me up at night yet but occasionally he will be rolling around so much that it makes it hard to fall asleep. I guess he's just getting me ready for when he makes his debut!

Something learned? prenatal massages are the best! no seriously ... I had my first one last week and its hard to even express how much better my achy body felt after

Nursery progress? yeah ... not so much. This has been a crazy couple of weeks and last night we had planned on finishing the crib and dresser but instead we dealt with one of our cars not starting and having to have it towed. So hopefully by this weekend we'll have the furniture finished so that Josh's folks can help us move it into Caleb's room! Cant wait!

To-Do:
~~1. paint the crib~~
~~2. paint Caleb's room~~
3. ~~order~~ and hang Caleb decal with scripture
4. ~~sand, prime,~~ and paint the dresser/changing table
5. paint the glider and ottoman
6. ~~buy fabric~~ & refinish glider and ottoman cushions
7. paint the drapery rod
8. paint the floating shelf
9. organize closet

Energy level? Energy ... what's that? My hubby keenly noticed that it takes me a couple of days to recuperate when we go out of town, have company over, or just have a lot planned in one weekend. I would have to say that this is the only thing that drives me nuts about pregnancy ... maybe even more than morning sickness did.

Best moment from this past week? Hands down it was getting to see our good friends and family this past weekend! Thank you to everyone for making it such a special weekend and to Chris and Allison for being wonderful hosts and friends!!!

baby shower

2011-07-11T10:17:00.000-05:00

It seems that in life every once and a while you come across a really good friend. The kind that, should you be separated for some amount of time, you can pick up right where you left off. The kind that will laugh with you, cry with you, rejoice with you, and mourn with you. The kind that you want to seek their advice and guidance because you respect and admire their character, and their walk with the Lord. And the kind that will sincerely pray for you and with you. For some reason the Lord has blessed me with several of these friends and I could not be more grateful!

This past weekend our good friends threw us an amazing baby shower! Every detail was thought through! Our hosts even asked guests to bring a book to help us start a library for Caleb. It was fun to see the type of books that people brought because it showed how well our friends know us ... baby books with math, tushie books, books about poo, books about the beach, and even Josh's favorite childhood book. What a fun weekend of getting to see old friends, family, and just laughing ... a lot!

Thank you everyone for celebrating with us!

... and last but certainly not least, our hosts and our really good friends, Chris and Allison Pailes (and their sweet puppy Farley) ....

Week 28 Q&A

2011-07-06T20:44:00.001-05:00

How far along? 28 weeks ... or 12 weeks left ... we're on the homestretch now, the 3rd trimester has officially begun!!

Food cravings? ice cold watermelon still tastes great

Weird pregnancy symptoms? achy hips and back ... oh yes, and headaches ... probably a result of spending too much time looking at my computer screen during the day, the heat, and the humidity!

Baby movement? Caleb is definitely more of a roller than a kicker

Something learned? going to bed early is a good thing, who cares if its still light outside at 9:00!

Nursery progress? We have made some progress on Caleb's room but have been nesting more in the rest of our house. We did sand and prime the dresser/changing table two weekends ago, and ordered a decal off of Etsy to put up in his room. Last weekend my mom also helped me pick out fabric to refinish the glider cushions. So we are slowly crossing off things from our to-do list. The carpets were cleaned today, so we're ready to move furniture into Caleb's room once its finished. I cant wait!

To-Do:
~~1. paint the crib~~
~~2. paint Caleb's room~~
3. ~~order~~ and hang Caleb decal with scripture
4. ~~sand, prime,~~ and paint the dresser/changing table
5. paint the glider and ottoman
6. refinish the gilder and ottoman cushions - ~~buy fabric to refinish cushions~~
7. paint the drapery rod
8. paint the floating shelf
9. organize closet

Energy level? taking a 20-30 minute power nap during lunch is becoming critical, good thing I only live 10 minutes from work!

Best moment from this past week? Hanging out, playing games, eating good food, watching the dogs play, and being lazy with family over the 4th.

nesting progress

2011-07-06T16:10:00.000-05:00

Just about a year ago we purchased our first home. We closed on a Friday at 4:00 PM and moved into our house that evening because we had to be out of our sublease the next day. On top of that we were both starting new jobs ... it was a whirlwind. Over the past year we really haven't done anything to our house, except work on the yard and paint the guest bathroom. Other than that our house has remained pretty bare. With baby Caleb on the way, both Josh and I have felt the nesting urge and have kicked things into high gear.

Two weekends ago we painted the living room and hallways in our house. Its amazing what a coat of paint can do for a room! As my hubby put it, our house no longer feels like a big apartment but an actual house. I couldn't have said it better. The sterile white walls are gone and have been replaced by a warm tan color. The difference isn't huge but makes our house feel like a home. Last week we hung picture frames, a wall decal, mirror, painted a lamp base, and rearranged our furniture.

Below are some before (when we purchased the house) and after pictures. I don't feel like the pictures accurately capture the differences but nevertheless here they are!

And the beginning of Caleb's room ...

Week 27 Q&A

2011-06-30T09:01:00.000-05:00

How far along? 27 weeks ... only 13 weeks, 90 days, left

Food cravings? sweet breads

Weird pregnancy symptoms? achy hips, sinus headaches, and heartburn baby!

Baby movement? Yes, oh yes. Caleb is rockin and rolling and I can now feel him move all around my belly, not in just one centralized location.

Something learned? Its way too easy to over do it! I don't like to ask others to do things for me or feel helpless! And I need to be more patient with myself ... there is a human growing inside of me!

How did I learn all of this ... well, we painted our living room and hallways last Sunday and I helped tape and edge. While we were working I didn't feel achy or exhausted, however, later that evening when I tried to get up from dinner, my whole body hurt in a way I haven't felt before ... especially my hips! It has taken me 4 days to recuperate too. I think I've learned my lesson!

Nursery progress? Well, this probably contributed to overdoing it last weekend ... but we sanded the dresser/changing table for Caleb's room last Friday night. Then on Saturday morning we applied the first coat of primer. Not wanting a repeat of last weekend I have a feeling the dresser is going to have to wait to be painted. It will all get done eventually, right?!

Energy level? Talk about a decline! This pregnant lady is exhausted these days. Here's to hoping its because of last weekend and not that the next 3 months will feel like this!!

Best moment from this past week? There were several this past week ... the majority of them include spending time with my hubby. I am so thankful to be married to a godly man who cares about and serves me in a way that displays the love of Jesus. I am blessed!

Waiting

2011-06-29T16:46:00.003-05:00

"Waiting on God isn't about the suspension of meaning and purpose. It's part of the meaning and purpose that God has brought into my life. Waiting on God isn't to be viewed as an obstruction in the way of the plan. Waiting is an essential part of the plan. For the child of God, waiting isn't simply about what I'll receive at the end of my wait. No, waiting is much more purposeful, efficient, and practical than that. Waiting is fundamentally about what I'll become as I wait. God is using the wait to do in and through me exactly what he's promised. Through the wait he's changing me. By means of the wait he's altering the fabric of my thoughts and desires. Through the wait he's causing me to see and experience new things about him and his kingdom. And all of this sharpens me, enabling me to be a more useful tool in his redemptive hands" (Paul Tripp).

Week 26 Q&A

2011-06-23T16:59:00.001-05:00

Its time for this weeks Q&A!

How far along? 26 weeks ... almost to our third trimester!!

Food cravings? chicken salad salad from McAlister's, s'mores

Weird pregnancy symptoms? you do not want to know ... seriously, pregnancy does some really weird stuff to your body!

Baby movement? Caleb has really started to kick with gusto! Early last week Josh and I both felt him roll over ... that was an interested feeling. And during church last Sunday he was kicking so hard that my belly was moving all over the place. At one point I wondered if the people next to us noticed the little alien baby making my belly jiggle. It really is incredible to think that a little baby is moving, growing, and rolling around inside of me!

Something learned? cherry limeades make Caleb move ... a lot

Nursery progress? We painted Caleb's room last week and it looks great! I'm so happy with the paint color we selected (pictures to come). And dont worry, my hubby did most of the painting and my brother-in-law came over to help paint the second coat.

Energy level? about the same as last week ... 3:30-5:00 is the hardest part of the day when the afternoon sleepies attack!

Best moment from this past week? celebrating 5 years of marriage to my best friend

wedding anniversary

2011-06-17T10:05:00.000-05:00

5 years ago I married my love and my best friend.

I would never have guessed the crazy adventures that we would go through together, nor could I have predicted where the Lord would take us ... but here we are 5 years later and I could not be more thankful to be walking through life with my hubby.

Joshua, I love you and am truly blessed to be your wife!

update on decorating Caleb's room

2011-06-16T07:00:00.001-05:00

Almost a month ago I blogged about decorating Caleb's room, lack of time, and feeling a little stressed. The next day a sweet friend came over and helped me finish painting our crib and we painted 3 paint samples on the nursery wall. Later that week my hubby and I painted another 2 paint samples on the nursery wall.

4 weeks later there are still 5 paint samples on the wall and I keep going back and forth between colors. Sigh. Is it me or is it harder to pick out paint colors when you're pregnant?!

Anyways ... we are 3.5 months away from d-day and after looking at the few "free" weekends we have left this summer I'm starting to feel the heat (okay, that might also be because its 100 degrees!). But hey, at least his crib is painted and we have a plan of attack!

Nursery To Do:
~~1. paint the crib~~
2. paint Caleb's room
3. paint the dresser/changing table
4. paint the glider and ottoman
5. refinish the gilder and ottoman cushions
6. paint the drapery rod
7. paint the floating shelf

7:38 p.m.

2011-06-15T19:39:00.000-05:00

Week 25 Q&A

2011-06-15T07:00:00.001-05:00

How far along? 25 weeks

Food cravings? ice cold watermelon, Whoppers (who knew?!), and cheese pizza

Weird pregnancy symptoms? heartburn baby! I feel like I could breathe fire if I tried

Baby movement? yes sir! felt a hand or foot poking out for the first time and when I pressed on where he was poking me, he moved! so cool!

Something learned? how to write a birth plan (Bradley homework for this next week)

Nursery progress? we puchased a glider and ottoman last week that we plan to refinish

Energy level? I cant tell if my energy level is declining due to my schedule still being off from vacation, or if this is the beginning of the decline of my energy level that will continue through my third trimester

Best moment from this past week? spending some quality time with my hubby this past weekend in Houston ... trying to soak up our one-on-one time before Caleb arrives

it's hot outside!

2011-06-14T16:57:00.000-05:00

What a summer to be pregnant! Look at the those high temperatures. Yikes!

making the most of our time

2011-06-14T10:39:00.000-05:00

This past weekend the Braves played the Astros in Houston and since tickets were so cheap, probably due to the Astros being so terrible this year (sorry but its true!), we decided to head to Houston to cheer on our beloved Braves. Thankfully the Braves won, the game was relaxing and exciting at the same time, the stadium was air conditioned, and we had a blast just being together.

We also decided to stay in Houston, since we wont have these types of opportunities to just get out of town whenever we want once Caleb arrives. So we Pricelined our hotel and our bid was picked up by the Inn at the Ballpark which was right across the street from the stadium. Win! They also had great room service and a fantastic breakfast buffet. Win win!

After a big breakfast on Saturday we headed over to the Houston Camera Exchange to buy a new lens and talk to someone about a new camera body. I have to give a plug to the Houston Camera Exchange because not only were they super helpful, but their prices are extremely competitive and they aren't jacking up their prices on Canon customers to benefit from the earthquake in Japan. I noticed that the prices of Canon products had risen over the past few months but didn't put two and two together that Canon's production rate would be affected. Supply and demand!

Anyways, the gal that helped us at the Camera Exchange was super helpful! And after talking over my frustrations with my current camera body and my desires in a new camera body I finally decided between two great cameras. Since there is a waiting list on Canon cameras (if you don't want to overpay) we put down a deposit on the Canon 7D which should hopefully arrive within the next month. Ready or not, here we go!

Baseball, specifically the Braves, and cameras ... all in all, I'd say it was a great weekend!

Week 24, Month 6

2011-06-14T08:32:00.000-05:00

Week 24/Month 6, a little late but better than never!

From this point onward our "fruit/veggie" pictures will slow down to one per month. Baby Caleb will be gaining most of his weight (approx. 6 ounces per week) in baby fat as well as growing organs, bones, and muscles through the rest of pregnancy. It's still amazing to me that everything is formed, internal organs and all, and he will just be gaining those cute pudgy baby rolls from this point forward.

We had another sonogram last week and its official ... we are going to have a big boy! I guess that's what you get when the parents are 5'10" and 6'3." Caleb is measuring approximately 2 weeks ahead of schedule and is weighing in around 2 pounds give or take a little. No wonder my belly feels huge! Here's to 3.5 months left!

babymoon

2011-06-09T16:55:00.000-05:00

Last week we traveled to Santa Barbara, California, for the ACMS (Association of Christians in the Mathematical Sciences) conference and combined babymoon. Josh thoroughly enjoyed the conference, I thoroughly enjoyed sitting on the beach each morning, and we enjoyed a relaxing time of just being with one another in a beautiful place.

Throughout the week I kept coming back to Psalm 104 regarding the Lord's care over all His works. How powerful it was to sit and read this psalm while sitting in front of the vast ocean knowing that the Lord is still bigger yet, still stronger yet, still more vast and majestic.

Psalm 104 (NASB)

1 Bless the LORD, O my soul!
O LORD my God, You are very great;
You are clothed with splendor and majesty,
2 Covering Yourself with light as with a cloak,
Stretching out heaven like a tent curtain.
3 He lays the beams of His upper chambers in the waters;
He makes the clouds His chariot;
He walks upon the wings of the wind;
4 He makes the winds His messengers,
Flaming fire His ministers.

5 He established the earth upon its foundations,
So that it will not totter forever and ever.
6 You covered it with the deep as with a garment;
The waters were standing above the mountains.
7 At Your rebuke they fled,
At the sound of Your thunder they hurried away.
8 The mountains rose; the valleys sank down
To the place which You established for them.
9 You set a boundary that they may not pass over,
So that they will not return to cover the earth.

10 He sends forth springs in the valleys;
They flow between the mountains;
11 They give drink to every beast of the field;
The wild donkeys quench their thirst.
12 Beside them the birds of the heavens dwell;
They lift up their voices among the branches.
13 He waters the mountains from His upper chambers;
The earth is satisfied with the fruit of His works.

14 He causes the grass to grow for the cattle,
And vegetation for the labor of man,
So that he may bring forth food from the earth,
15 And wine which makes man’s heart glad,
So that he may make his face glisten with oil,
And food which sustains man’s heart.
16 The trees of the LORD drink their fill,
The cedars of Lebanon which He planted,
17 Where the birds build their nests,
And the stork, whose home is the fir trees.

18 The high mountains are for the wild goats;
The cliffs are a refuge for the shephanim.
19 He made the moon for the seasons;
The sun knows the place of its setting.
20 You appoint darkness and it becomes night,
In which all the beasts of the forest prowl about.
21 The young lions roar after their prey
And seek their food from God.
22 When the sun rises they withdraw
And lie down in their dens.
23 Man goes forth to his work
And to his labor until evening.

24 O LORD, how many are Your works!
In wisdom You have made them all;
The earth is full of Your possessions.
25 There is the sea, great and broad,
In which are swarms without number,
Animals both small and great.
26 There the ships move along,
And Leviathan, which You have formed to sport in it.

27 They all wait for You
To give them their food in due season.
28 You give to them, they gather it up;
You open Your hand, they are satisfied with good.
29 You hide Your face, they are dismayed;
You take away their spirit, they expire
And return to their dust.
30 You send forth Your Spirit, they are created;
And You renew the face of the ground.

31 Let the glory of the LORD endure forever;
Let the LORD be glad in His works;
32 He looks at the earth, and it trembles;
He touches the mountains, and they smoke.
33 I will sing to the LORD as long as I live;
I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.
34 Let my meditation be pleasing to Him;
As for me, I shall be glad in the LORD.
35 Let sinners be consumed from the earth
And let the wicked be no more.
Bless the LORD, O my soul.
Praise the LORD!

decorating Caleb's room

2011-05-20T13:08:00.000-05:00

As I look at our calendar and all of the fun activities, trips, vacations, etc., we have planned this summer ... I've started to notice our time slipping away and we haven't done a single thing to the nursery, except move the study into the guest room. Yikes!

So this weekend, with the help of a friend, I plan on finishing the crib we bought a couple of months ago on Craigslist and hopefully pick out a wall color. Below is a sneak peak of what we have in store for Caleb's room.

Week 21

2011-05-18T15:43:00.000-05:00

Your Baby in Week 21 of Pregnancy
How big is your baby? About the size of a large banana — and speaking of bananas, if you eat one this week, there's a good chance your baby will get a taste, too. That's because he swallows a bit of amniotic fluid each day (for nutrition, hydration, and to practice digesting), so he eats whatever's on your menu — and gets to put those developing taste buds to good use. So go ahead and nosh on those nachos (or crunch those crudités): Your baby may develop a taste for them when he’s older.

Week 21 Pregnancy Symptoms (I find it amusing to post these)
Fetal movement: By now you may be able to feel your baby twisting, turning, and kicking in the womb (though many new expectant moms mistake the feeling for gas). Enjoy these first gentle love taps — soon enough your growing baby’s kicks will get more aggressive.

Hearty appetite: Are you always in the mood to eat? Carry healthy snacks with you (such as nuts, raisins, trail mix, or granola bars) so that you’ll have nutritious fuel to keep you and your baby-to-be nourished even when you’re on the go.

Flatulence: The increasing pressure your uterus is placing on your rectum can mean that you’re having a hard time containing yourself (your gas, that is). Drink plenty of water and eat fiber-rich foods to avoid becoming constipated, which can make gassiness worse.

Varicose veins: The extra blood volume and weight you’re carrying around can put pressure on your circulatory system and lead to the swollen blood vessels called varicose veins. Do your best to keep your weight gain to a healthy minimum to avoid putting undue stress on your circulatory system.

Backaches: Not only is your center of gravity shifting and putting extra strain on your back, but the hormone relaxin is also causing your ligaments and joints to stretch and loosen, which means additional achiness in your back. If you can, splurge for a prenatal massage from a trained professional.

Bleeding gums: If your inflamed, bleeding gums are turning your toothbrush pink, avoid eating sticky candies, especially when you can’t brush afterward. The sweet stuff increases bacteria in your mouth and further irritates your gums.

Skin, hair, and nail changes: Have you noticed that your hair and nails are growing at record speed? Pregnancy hormones are partly the cause — as is the increased circulation in your body, bringing extra nutrients to your hair and nails (and to your baby, of course).

Information above can be found on the What to Expect website at http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week-21.aspx

Week 20

2011-05-11T20:10:00.000-05:00

Your Baby in Week 20 of Pregnancy
Curious about whether that melon-sized belly contains a boy or a girl? Now's your chance to take a peek! Your second trimester ultrasound, scheduled for anytime between 18 and 22 weeks, gives your practitioner a chance to see how things are going in there. And, wow, are they going! If you're having a girl, her uterus is now fully formed and her ovaries are holding about seven million primitive eggs. If you're having a boy, his testicles have begun their descent from the abdomen to their ultimate destination — the scrotum. And while your baby is definitely getting bigger (weighing in at about ten ounces and measuring six and a half inches), there's still plenty of growing room in there, which allows him to twist and turn (and allows you to feel his acrobatics!).

Your Body in Week 20 of Pregnancy
Now that you’re at the midpoint of your pregnancy (20 weeks down, 20 more to go!), that little cantaloupe (aka baby) you have in your belly is becoming more of a reality as you feel his movements and draw smiles from passersby who see your baby bump. You might also be noticing that your nails are stronger (though they could also turn dry and brittle) and your hair (all over your body) is thicker and fuller than usual — all thanks to pregnancy hormones and increased circulation, which furnish extra nutrients to hair and nail cells. But while the hair on your head may be lovelier than ever, you might not be digging those sprouts on your chin. This situation is indeed temporary, but feel free to tweeze!

Week 20 Pregnancy Tip: Appetite
Are you in the Hunger Zone? With weeks of nausea and food aversions behind you, you may be more than ready to make up for lost eating time (move over crackers, hello four-course meals!). But before you dig into that all-you-can-eat buffet at lunchtime, here's something you might want to consider. The grazing approach that was your mealtime MO during those queasy months is still the best way to feed yourself and your baby now that food's no longer a four-letter word. Not only does it help fend off pesky second-trimester tummy troubles (like the heartburn and indigestion that's sure to set in by your second trip to the buffet), but it also ensures that baby's getting a steady supply of calories when he needs it the most. In fact, studies show that moms who eat at least five or six small meals and snacks a day are more likely to carry to term. So bring on the grub when pregnancy hunger hits, and lots of it — just bring it on a little at a time.

Week 20 Pregnancy Symptoms
Heartburn or indigestion: If you’re looking for a simple heartburn fix, try chewing a piece of sugarless gum after meals. The increased saliva it produces neutralizes gastric acids and helps force fluids back into the stomach.
Increased vaginal discharge: As your pregnancy progresses, you’ll notice an increase in vaginal discharge. While it can be uncomfortable, this discharge actually helps protect the birth canal from infection and maintains a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina.
Occasional headaches: Do you find that your headaches crop up when you’re overheated, in windowless, stuffy spaces, or under fluorescent lighting? Be sure to take fresh-air breaks outside a few times a day, and dress in layers to avoid getting too hot, which could trigger a headache.
Occasional faintness or dizziness: Stuffy, hot rooms can be the cause of light-headedness (not just headaches), especially when your body is already generating lots of heat with that little bun you’re cooking in your oven. Stay cool by taking frequent breaks for fresh air and wearing loose-fitting clothes.
Leg cramps: Experts aren’t clear on what causes leg cramps during pregnancy, but one theory is that they are caused by compressed blood vessels in the legs (a consequence of extra weight and swelling). Help the blood circulate throughout your body more easily — and minimize cramping — by putting your feet up when you can and drinking plenty of fluids.
Mild swelling of ankles and feet: If water retention in your ankles and feet is causing you pain, be sure to wear comfy (not tight!) shoes while you’re out, and switch into slippers when you get home. Also, avoid tight socks or pantyhose that can cut off blood flow — you want to keep fluids flowing freely to minimize swelling in your lower extremities.
Protruding navel: Your cute little innie belly button may suddenly morph into an outie as your uterus pushes your abdomen forward. If you don’t like the new look, don’t worry — your navel will go back to being an innie after delivery.

Information above can be found on the What to Expect website at http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/20-weeks-pregnant.aspx

one year ago

2011-05-10T10:36:00.000-05:00

I cant help but keep looking at the calendar and smiling. Last weekend DTS celebrated another Commencement. For three years I worked and helped plan the DTS Commencement activities. I loved the rush of activity in the office leading up to Commencement, the excitement of the graduates, and general sense of joy and accomplishment across campus for those completing their degrees. And as crazy as it sounds, a part of me missed being a part of the hustle and bustle this year.

A year ago my hubby graduated from DTS and I couldn't have been more proud of him as he walked across that stage to receive his diploma. Last year feels like such a long time ago and I'm amazed at the Lord's provision through the many unknowns that this past year has held. From new jobs, to moving (3 times), to buying our first house, to adopting a puppy, to getting pregnant ... it has been a year full of change.

Looking ahead to the arrival of our son, Caleb, and whatever the future holds ... its a comfort to know that the Lord is in control, cares, and provides for our needs. Praise Him for that!

childbirth classes

2011-05-04T10:33:00.000-05:00

So, I posted something on Facebook the other day about going to our first Bradley class and received some interesting comments. A couple of people even mentioned the word "intense."

I have been told that when you're pregnant people will give you their unsolicited advice and that people are very opinionated when it comes to pregnancy and childbirth. For the most part people have been very kind and have waited for me to say something, ask questions, etc. This could be because I haven't been strongly convicted that there is one right way concerning pregnancy or childbirth ... besides my obvious need for daily dependence upon God.

The only two things that have really struck me about people's response to our pregnancy is gender guessing (some people were so sure they knew the gender before we did), and childbirth classes. Over the past several months I have been reading childbirth books, articles, websites, and watching documentaries regarding childbirth. From this information I have gleaned that there are two sides, natural or drugs, with no room in between ... no gray ... no neutral territory. Even when people say they are neutral ... its hard to not see between the lines. Perhaps this is because childbirth is such a personal, emotional, and life changing event in a person's life. I respect that.

Going into pregnancy I had heard the two sides, have had friends share their childbirth experiences with me, which have all been different and unique, but I have remained on the fence. Natural? Drugs?

But I digress ... back to my original point, The Bradly Method. Yes, 12 weeks at 2 hours a week is a big commitment. Yes, there is homework. Yes, the husband has to be involved, hence the husband-coached natural childbirth methodology. And yes, they teach from a natural childbirth perspective. Being an information gatherer, and my hubby being the academic and always enjoying a good class, we decided to go the Bradly route for our childbirth classes. Are we sold on having a natural childbirth? Not really. It seems there are benefits both ways. So here I sit, on the childbirth fence almost halfway though pregnancy ... and I think I'm okay with that.

Week 19

2011-05-04T09:51:00.000-05:00

Your Baby in Week 19 of Pregnancy Have you ever seen a mango dipped in cheese? Well, that's what your baby looks like this week due to a little growth spurt (she's about a half pound in weight and six inches long) and a substance called vernix caseosa. This greasy white stuff covers your baby's skin, protecting it from the surrounding amniotic fluid. (Without it, she'd look totally wrinkled as she entered the world.) The vernix sheds as delivery approaches, though some babies still sport a bit of the coating at birth.

Your Body in Week 19 of Pregnancy
One minute you're lying peacefully in bed and the next your calf muscle feels like it's about to explode. Leg cramps during pregnancy are pretty common (no one knows exactly what causes them, but muscle fatigue or compressed blood vessels are the likeliest culprits) and tend to strike at night. You might also be wondering about tingling and numbness in your fingers and toes about now. It's a weird sensation but totally normal, probably a result of your body's swelling tissues pressing on nerves.

Week 19 Pregnancy Tip: Feeling Baby Kick
Your sister said she felt her baby kick by this point in her pregnancy — and so did your best friend — but so far, you haven't felt a thing. Except those gas bubbles this morning…those were gas, weren't they? Maybe, maybe not. Those first tiny kicks can be felt many different ways — anytime, on average, between week 18 and week 22 — as the merest flutter or the most insistent slug. Or as gas bubbles that aren't gas at all (that's how I felt it that first time — and for days I was sure it was just all the dried fruit I'd been eating). Some of it has to do with your size (the thinner you are, the more likely you are to feel movements earlier), some of it has to do with your muscle tone (the laxer the uterine muscles, the easier it is to feel those kicks — which is why second-timers generally feel them sooner), some has to do with the baby's position (when the baby kicks facing in, it's more difficult to perceive the movements). Also, an inaccurate due date can have you doubting whether that was your baby’s momentous first kick. Don't worry — there's no mistaking the real thing once your baby gets that technique down — and gets big enough to pack a serious punch.

Week 19 Pregnancy Symptoms
Hearty appetite: Having a hard time staying away from the fridge (and cupboards and pantry)? Keep tempting junk foods out of the house, and instead fill your kitchen with nutritious goodies — but do occasionally allow yourself to indulge in sinful treats so that you don’t end up bingeing on them.

Constipation: If you can’t seem to get regular, take a look at your supplements and medications; some of them, such as iron, can make constipation worse. Ask your practitioner to help you come up with some alternatives until your digestive system gets back on track.

Occasional faintness or dizziness: Your growing uterus may put pressure on your blood vessels (among other parts of your body), reducing blood flow to your brain and causing you to feel light-headed. Even though dizziness is common, don’t ignore it — take it easy and sit or lie down as soon as you start to feel woozy so that you don’t hurt yourself or the baby.

Possible nasal congestion: Is the swelling in your nasal passages making it hard for you to breathe? Here’s how to blow your nose without damaging nasal membranes and causing a nosebleed: Use your thumb to close one nostril, and blow gently out the other side.

Lower abdominal achiness: The ligaments that support your uterus are getting stretched as your uterus expands — which can cause lower abdominal achiness (or round ligament pain). Try to make yourself as comfortable as possible — and avoid changing positions suddenly because this can trigger pain.

Backaches: As your uterus grows, you may find your center of gravity shifting forward, putting extra pressure on your lower back. Avoid straining your back further by letting others lift heavy loads for you. If you absolutely must lift something, stabilize yourself by assuming a wide stance, bend at the knees (not at the waist), and slowly lift with your arms and legs, not your back.

Stretch marks: About 90 percent of women develop stretch marks during pregnancy, so you’re not alone. While there is no proven cure, moisturizers such as cocoa butter can help ease the dryness and itching associated with stretched skin.

Information above can be found on the What to Expect website at http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week-19.aspx

to quote a friend ...

2011-05-02T13:41:00.000-05:00

A friend posted this on her blog today ... some more food for thought.

"bin Laden was no more in need of Grace than I am.

And, on the most basic, human level, he is a man who died without knowing Christ.

It seems strange to celebrate that."

John 13:12-17

2011-05-02T10:59:00.000-05:00

"So when Jesus had washed their feet and put his outer clothing back on, he took his place at the table again and said to them, “Do you understand what I have done for you? You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and do so correctly, for that is what I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you too ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example – you should do just as I have done for you. I tell you the solemn truth, the slave is not greater than his master, nor is the one who is sent as a messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you understand these things, you will be blessed if you do them."

Food for thought.

Week 18

2011-04-27T20:42:00.000-05:00

At 18 weeks pregnant, your baby is hitting the height chart at five and a half inches long (remember, that's crown to rump) and weighs about five ounces (the weight of that boneless chicken breast you're making for dinner).

And now for the skill of the week (drum roll please…): The art of the yawn has been mastered by your baby (someone's sleepy!). In fact, you might catch a glimpse of that adorable yawn if you're getting an ultrasound this month. You'll also catch a glimpse of all the fetal movement your baby's doing — twists, rolls, kicks, and punches. And would you believe your baby is finally big enough for you to start feeling those movements now (or anytime in the next few weeks). So get ready!

Something you won't see on the ultrasound, but you'll know is in working order, is your baby's nervous system, which is maturing rapidly at this time. Nerves, now covered with a substance called myelin (which speeds messages from nerve cell to nerve cell), are forming more complex connections. And those in the brain are further specializing into the ones that serve the senses of touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing. Talking about hearing, your baby's is growing more acute, making your little one more conscious of sounds that come from inside your body (which means you could both be listening to each other hiccup — a skill that your baby has by now).

Information above can be found on the What to Expect website at http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/your-baby/week-18/nerves.aspx

baby Caleb

2011-04-26T10:21:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was another milestone in our pregnancy as we were able to see the little life growing inside of me again. I am truly amazed by God's creation! Not only were we able to see all of the baby's arms, legs, hands, feet, and even the heart pumping ... but we found out that we're having a little boy! In some ways it feels more real knowing the gender and being able to call him by name ... Caleb Buchanan Wilkerson. We're going to have a son. Wow!

"But My servant Caleb, because he has had a different spirit and has followed Me fully, I will bring into the land which he entered, and his descendants shall take possession of it" (Numbers 14:24).

Death in Vain Forbids Him Rise

2011-04-24T13:00:00.010-05:00

"Listen to these words: Jesus the Nazarene, a man attested to you by God with miracles and wonders and signs which God performed through Him in your midst, just as you yourselves know– this Man, delivered over by the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God, you nailed to a cross by the hands of godless men and put Him to death. But God raised Him up again, putting an end to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in its power" (Acts 2:22-24).

There is love that came for us

Humbled to a sinner’s cross

You broke my shame and sinfulness

You rose again victorious

You are stronger! You are stronger!

Sin is broken

You have saved me

It is written

Christ is risen

Jesus You are Lord of all!

So let Your name be lifted higher!

[The post above was taken from from my hubby's blog, http://godandmath.com/2011/04/24/christ-is-stronger]/

Week 17

2011-04-20T08:22:00.000-05:00

How big is your baby at 17 weeks pregnant? About five inches long and more than three and a half ounces — the size of your open hand. (Open the other one too and imagine your baby cradled in both your arms right after delivery!) Body fat (baby's, that is) is beginning to form and will continue to accumulate through the end of your pregnancy. By the time your baby is born, body fat will make up about two-thirds of his or her weight (and will make all those chubby parts especially yummy).

Your baby is almost certainly listening up by now. In fact, loud noises — the dog barking, the doorbell ringing — will actually startle your baby (and also get him or her used to such noises; for instance, fetuses who regularly hear a dog barking will become babies who sleep right through Fido's outbursts). Your baby's eyes (which have fortunately finished their migration to the front of his or her head) are making small side-to-side movements and can even perceive some light, though the eyelids are still sealed. And since practice makes perfect, your baby is sharpening his or her sucking and swallowing skills in preparation for that first (and second…and third) suckle at your breast or bottle. In fact, most of the survival reflexes that your baby will have at birth are being perfected in utero right now.

And here's some proof that your baby is truly one of a kind (as if you needed any!). Within the next week or so, the pads on your baby's fingertips and toes will become adorned with completely individual swirls and creases (aka fingerprints).

Information above can be found on the What to Expect website at http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/your-baby/week-17/rehearsal-dinner.aspx

light switches

2011-04-14T10:36:00.000-05:00

Every house seems to have its quirks and ours is no different. One of the things we first noticed about our house was the weird placement of light switches. For example, the bathroom light switches are in the most inconvenient places. The one for the master bath is in our bedroom, outside of our bathroom. The one in the guest bathroom is behind the door. The two bathroom switches I have gotten use to, however, the light switch in the front entry way drives me nuts! It is a decorators nightmare ... and no I'm not exaggerating. The light switch is smack dab in the middle of the wall where a mirror or picture frame would fit perfectly. The weird things is, there is a ton of wall space they could have chosen to put this switch, but no, they chose the middle of the wall.

So I have been avoiding the front entryway because frankly I'm out of ideas ... that was until last week. Last week I received a mysterious package from a good friend with three super cute wall tiles. They made me laugh because I was actually with her when we saw them hanging up in the DTS bookstore. What a sweet surprise for them to show up in the mail on what was a hectic week at work!

I wanted to hang them up immediately and thankfully I knew just the place ... the front entryway above the annoying light switch. Now the light switch isn't so annoying because of the fun tiles. The picture below doesn't do them justice and they should pop a lot more once we paint the walls.

Thanks to my sweet friend for thinking of me! You made my day ... and made our front entryway look pretty!

Week 16

2011-04-13T20:12:00.000-05:00

Your baby now weighs in at a whopping three to five ounces, and he's four to five inches in length. The bones that are now in place in his ears means he can probably hear your voice as you talk to your partner and pals and sing in the car. While he’s getting used to your voice, the tiny muscles in his body, especially the ones in his back, are gaining strength, so he can straighten out a little more. And thanks to his developing facial muscles, your baby is capable of making a few expressive frowns and squints, even at this early stage. (Don’t worry, those frowns have nothing to do with the sound of your voice!) And his eyes are finally working, making small side-to-side movements and perceiving light (although the eyelids are still sealed). Peekaboo!

Information above can be found on the What to Expect website at http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week-16.aspx

the life of a dog

2011-04-07T08:48:00.000-05:00

Every day when my hubby gets home he throws the frisbee to our pup until she looks like she cant pant any harder. We jokingly say that if we didn't stop she would probably play until she died. Unfortunately this "joke" probably does carry some truth. At any rate, this dog loves frisbee!

The other day I decided to take a quick snapshot of her "intent to chase" look. If dogs could talk I know she would be saying, "throw the frisbee, throw the frisbee, throw the frisbee ..." Ah, the life of a dog!

Week 15 bump

2011-04-06T09:17:00.000-05:00

Okay okay ... the long awaited baby bump picture is here. Hello 15 weeks! Last weekend when I was trying to weed our flower beds, I kept coming into contact with my bump. What a funny feeling to bend over and realize you cant bend quite as far as you use to because there is a baby there. I know I'll probably laugh at that comment when I'm further along, but for now its such a weird and fun feeling.

yardwork

2011-04-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

The past two weekends have not only been beautiful, but my "morning" sickness has eased and my energy level has started to come back. Thanks mom for the second trimester feel better genes! Therefore, for the past two weekends we have been working on our yard. While our yard seems to be a never ending project, it feels really good to take ownership of our home by completing simple landscaping projects.

Two weekends ago we went to a free home landscaping class at America's Country Store (side note: we love that place!) and received some great advice. After the class we spent the rest of that Saturday prepping our yard (i.e. digging up old tree stumps, digging out plants and shrubs, spraying weeds, etc.) for the following Saturday's tasks.

Last Saturday we managed to mow, edge, fertilize and water our yard, expand a flower bed (geeze was that a lot of work!), weed all of the flower beds (even more work!!), and lay down mulch. Whew! That made for one tired pregnant lady on Sunday.

Here are some before/after pictures to capture the fruit of our labor ...

BEFORE (we bought the house): look at those overgrown bushes and trees!

BEFORE (we bought the house): a closeup of the front flower bed

AFTER (weekend project #1): we pulled out the bushes in the front that were planted right next to the foundation and were choking out the crepe myrtle tree

AFTER (weekend project #1): My hubby told those bushes! They were stubborn and didn't want to go! We still cant believe there were so many bushes crammed into such a small space.

BEFORE (weekend project #2): the original flower bed stopped just short of the trunk of the tree instead of expanding all the way to the flower bed on the right ... so we expanded the flower bed (p.s. killing and digging up grass is a pain in the ... well, you get my point)

AFTER (weekend project #2): These pictures dont do the flower bed justice! Now all we have to do is plant new plants, but we're still not sure what they should be ... any suggestions?

Facebook Divorce Stats

2011-04-05T09:40:00.002-05:00

The article below came across my email this morning courtesy of Crosswalk.com's marriage newsletter. I found it an interestingly sad perspective of technology and social networking today. There are so many different and easy ways for satan to try and drag our marriages into the sin and destruction these days. As followers of Jesus we should seek to live in the light and live above reproach because we are called for something greater!

"But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may proclaim the virtues of the one who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. You once were not a people, but now you are God’s people. You were shown no mercy, but now you have received mercy. Dear friends, I urge you as foreigners and exiles to keep away from fleshly desires that do battle against the soul, and maintain good conduct among the non-Christians, so that though they now malign you as wrongdoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God when he appears" (1 Peter 2:9-12).

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Facebook Divorce Stats: Couples 'Be Wise,' Experts Say
by: Michael Foust

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)--Surveys that show Facebook being cited more and more in divorce cases should make spouses think twice before "friending" someone of the opposite sex, experts say.

A 2010 survey by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers showed that 81 percent of "the nation's top divorce attorneys" reported an increase in social networking websites being used as evidence in divorce cases. Facebook is the leader, being cited in 66 percent of cases that involve online evidence.

"We're coming across it more and more," clinical psychologist Steven Kimmons of Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood, Ill., said in a news release. "One spouse connects online with someone they knew from high school. The person is emotionally available and they start communicating through Facebook. Within a short amount of time, the sharing of personal stories can lead to a deepened sense of intimacy, which in turn can point the couple in the direction of physical contact."

The Facebook-divorce link has been discussed widely in the social media realm lately thanks to a survey from the United Kingdom supposedly showing Facebook being at least partially blamed for one in five of all divorces. The data is from a U.K. online divorce service that found the word "Facebook" appearing in 989 of the company's 5,000 divorce petitions, all of which were uncontested, The Wall Street Journal reported. The company's managing director called the survey "unscientific."

Whether or not Facebook is a reason for one in five divorces, it is becoming an increasing problem in marriages, Kimmons and other marriage experts say.

Couples should take common sense safeguards on Facebook, said Michael Martin, vice president for academic affairs and professor of New Testament studies at Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary in Mill Valley, Calif.

"People need to manage the beginning of the relationship," Martin told Baptist Press. "If somebody contacts you from your past and wants to strike up a friendship -- somebody that you dated once or somebody that you knew in high school or college, there's nothing necessarily wrong with entering into that relationship. Just do it along with your spouse. Include your spouse into the conversation. If you're willing to do that openly, then it's likely there's nothing at all wrong with the Facebook relationship. If you are being invited into a conversation that you are uncomfortable including your spouse in, then you should not start the relationship."

There "absolutely" are times when a husband or wife should decline a Facebook friend invitation from someone of the opposite sex, Martin said.

Thomas White, vice president for student services and communications at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, said "unhealthy marriages, unguarded partners and fallen humanity" -- not technology -- are the problem. White, who also is an associate professor of theology, offered four tips for spouses who are on Facebook:

-- Give your spouse the password and the "freedom to check your Facebook at any time."
-- Disable Facebook's chat function. "It provides a way to communicate without any record and can lead to a false sense of safety similar to the woman in Proverbs 7 whose husband was away," White said.
-- Set all Facebook messages to forward to someone else's email address who can serve as an accountability partner. An additional layer of accountability, White said, would be to have the messages forwarded to your spouse's email. White said his messages are forwarded to his work e-mail which his assistants view.
-- Don't accept a past romantic interest's friend request -- or send a request -- until discussing it with your spouse.

"Facebook is not evil, but as with all forms of technology, we have to be wise in how we use them," White said.

Ease of communication has opened the door to all sorts of possibilities -- good and bad -- White and Martin said. Prior to the Internet and Facebook, a person would have had to spend days, weeks or even months to try to find someone they knew years ago.

"An out-of-the-blue phone call would have been a much bolder action," White said.

Now, though, a person can do that in seconds, "simply by just going on Facebook or any other social networking site and doing a search for that person," Martin said.

"It can almost be done on a whim, and that's part of the problem," Martin said. "A thing done on a whim can evolve into a secret relationship that evolves into an emotional attachment that then leads to a divorce. There are some early warning signs that a person should note in order to avoid that kind of thing happening."

Facebook relationships, Martin said, are "real relationships."

"It's not a game. It's not a fantasy. These are real relationships.... People can form powerful, genuinely emotional attachments as a result of an exchange that is initially nothing more than an online exchange," Martin said. "Because these relationships are real and relationships shape our lives, we need to manage the beginning of a relationship with an eye toward the possible outcomes of that relationship. In other words, you don't toy with a dangerous animal. If there is something that a person would not do in terms of a face-to-face relationship -- an intimate discussion or a private discussion -- they should not do it on Facebook. Otherwise, they are starting down a path which can have extremely negative consequences."

(c) 2011 Baptist Press. All rights reserved. Used with permission.
Michael Foust is associate editor of Baptist Press.

Craigslist success!

2011-03-31T09:12:00.000-05:00

Over the past few weeks I have been scanning Craigslist daily for a crib in the Bryan/College Station area. Due to B/CS being a small town, our options were extremely limited. When I expanded our search to Houston and Austin I was disappointed to find that the price range expanded upwards too. As in, expanded upwards of $300 for a used crib!! So we have been patiently waiting for the right crib to come along and I'm glad we did.

On Monday I found a crib on Craigslist for $50! Last night we went to look at the crib and were extremely pleased to find it was in great shape and extremely solid. It also turned out that the couple goes to our church and the wife teaches math at A&M. Talk about a small world!

So last night we brought home our first piece of baby furniture ... actually it is our first baby purchase. This weekend I have grand plans of sanding and painting our crib white (pictures to follow). Let the nesting begin!

loading ... please wait

2011-03-30T11:27:00.000-05:00

Last week my hubby sent me a link to the maternity t-shirt on the left. He also made the comment that everyone else's pregnancies seem to be going by so quickly and ours is going by so slowly. I guess you could say someone is excited to meet his kiddo!

I would have to agree with him that this first trimester has crawled along. My guess is the constant "morning" sickness, nausea, waiting to reveal the news to our family and friends, etc., has made the time move slower. But as I look at the calendar I realize that the days are actually flying by pretty quickly! Today I'm officially 14 weeks ... 1/3 of the way there. Wow. And in 25 days, or 3.5 weeks we will find out if we're having a little boy or girl. Double wow!

It all still feels surreal. Besides the lingering nausea and my rounded belly (week 14 bump picture coming soon), sometimes I have to remind myself that I'm carrying a little life inside of me. And then I have to remind myself that God is in control ... in control of forming every single detail, every hair on this little one's head. Now that's pretty amazing!

week 14 (hello second trimester!)

2011-03-30T11:08:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the second trimester! With any luck, your energy level is making a comeback. More good news on the horizon: less morning sickness and fewer trips to the potty to pee. You might find yourself feeling pregnancy aches on the lower sides of your abdomen about now as the muscles and ligaments that support your growing uterus stretch. And though it might be a pain in the — well, lower abdomen — it's pain with a gain and a sign that it won't be long now until your body finally starts to show that you're expecting.

Now the size of your clenched fist, your baby is more fluid-like in his movements, so he’s no longer doing the jerk every time he repositions his arms and legs. Other developments this week include a roof of his own (inside his mouth, that is) as well as intestinal activity: His intestines are producing meconium (which is the waste that will make up his first bowel movement after birth). He is also sporting a downy coating of hair (lanugo) that keeps him nice and warm. Not to worry — you won't give birth to a monkey; baby fat will accumulate over the next few months and take over the function of keeping your baby warm and toasty —allowing most of that hair to shed.

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Information above can be found on the What to Expect website at http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week-14.aspx

Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head

2011-03-28T15:44:00.000-05:00

So my boss is pretty awesome. Since the nickname Spud has caught on like wildfire, my boss mentioned a couple of weeks ago that it would be funny to give me a Mr. Potato head. This morning she did just that ... she gave me a Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head! Too funny!! Since I spend most of my waking hours at work, I think I'll leave them in my office for a while to enjoy. Plus, they make me smile!

the story behind the nickname Spud

2011-03-24T07:00:00.041-05:00

Several weeks ago I had a conversation with a sweet co-worker who had just heard the news about our little one. She asked if I had been craving anything, which I haven't, however I have noticed that potatoes seem to curb my "morning" sickness. As in, we've been roughly going through a 5 pound bag of potatoes each week. I have never been one to crave potatoes, french fires, etc. ... not until little baby Wilkerson came along.

My co-worker also asked me if I think our baby is a boy or a girl. Again, I'm neutral on this one ... however I have noticed that Josh keeps refering to our baby by saying "she" or "her." When I asked him about this he told me it was because it was better than calling our baby "it," which I had apparently been doing.

To make a long story short, my co-worker said we should call our baby Spud or Tater ... due to my large consumption of potatoes. The name Tater reminds me of Ron White (from Jeff Foxworthy) saying, "They call me tater salad." Needless to say Tater is off the list. My boss thought that was hilarous and said she will be buying me a Mr. Potato Head for our kiddo too. Too funny!

So that's the scoop behind the nickname. Cant wait to meet our little Spud! :)

Week 13

2011-03-23T07:30:00.000-05:00

Your baby is about three inches long and the size of a peach at 13 weeks pregnant. But don't compare your baby with the baby next door. Starting about now, babies begin growing at different paces, some faster than others, some more slowly, though they all follow the same developmental path. Growing at a universally breakneck speed now is your baby's body as it tries to catch up to the head in terms of size. Though your baby's head is about half the size of its body now, by the time your baby is ready to make his or her entrance into the world, the head will be only one-fourth as large as the body.

Your baby's intestines are also in for some big changes right now. Up till this point, they've been growing in a cavity inside the umbilical cord; but now they're moving to their permanent (and more conveniently located) address, in your baby's abdomen. And to serve your growing baby's needs, the placenta is also growing. It weighs about an ounce now and will weigh one to two pounds at birth (something else you'll soon be able to blame your weight gain on!).

Also developing this week: your baby's vocal chords. Because sound can't travel through your uterus (your baby's current habitat), you won't be able to hear any sounds or cries just yet, but oh boy (or girl) — those vocal chords will get a good workout once that baby is born.

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Information above can be found on the What to Expect website at http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/your-baby/week-13/different-growths.aspx?xid=nl_YourDailyNewsletterfromWhattoExpect_20110322

our fur children

2011-03-22T11:33:00.000-05:00

Its amazing to think that our animals went from this ...

... to this ...

... in only 6 months. If they only knew whats coming next. They're not going to know what hit them when baby Wilkerson arrives!

the smell of coffee

2011-03-17T09:41:00.000-05:00

Ask any of my college roommates, or my husband for that matter, and they would all tell you, "Don't talk to Laura before she's had her coffee in the morning." It almost became a joke because it was so true. That is until several months ago.

When Josh and I first started trying to have a kiddo I slowly started decreasing my caffeine intake. To my delight, all of the reasearch I had found said that a small cup of coffee once a day was okay during pregnancy which meant I didn't have to cut out coffee completely. Then the unthinkable happened (okay, maybe that's a little dramatic, but if you've ever lived with me you'd think it was unthinkable) ... at about 7-8 weeks pregnant my usual black cup of coffee didn't taste good anymore. That anomaly, along with some other minor complications I was experiencing and advice from my doctor, I cut out coffee and caffeine completely. A couple of people have asked if it was a hard decision ... and surprisingly it wasn't. It was really easy.

It didn't really hit me how weird it was until last weekend when some good friends came to visit and I didn't have any coffee in the house! It hadn't even crossed my mind to buy some for our friends. I had even cleaned my old espresso maker and was getting ready to put it away for a while. Me?! Put my espresso maker away?!? How very strange.

This past week I ventured to Starbucks to pick up a juice and muffin on my way to work. For the first time in a while the smell of coffee actually smelled good again. But not black coffee, which would normally be my drink of choice, but I craved something sweet. So I ordered a tall iced soy half-caf white mocha ... and my friends, it tasted so good, and was so familiar.

The smell of Starbucks coffee was familiar. That particlular location was familar, as it was the one I frequented as a college student. And this sense of smell reminded me of my last year of college when I would get a cup of coffee, sit on the balcony in my apartment, and spend 30 mins to an hour with God each morning. What a sweet time that was.

Between daylight savings and pregnancy exhaustion ... I've had way too many excuses to press the snooze button through my time with God. Lately, prayer without being in His Word has felt empty and hollow and I'm amazed at His ways of drawing us back to Him. I'm amazed that the smell of something like coffee reminded me of Him and am thankful for this gentle reminder of how much I miss spending time with Him in His Word.

Week 12

2011-03-16T07:30:00.003-05:00

Your Baby in Week 12 of Pregnancy

This week marks a turning point for your baby. At 12 weeks pregnant, the herculean task of developing new bodily structures is nearing an end as most of your baby's systems are fully formed. Now comes the maintenance phase, during which your fetus' systems continue to mature for the next 28 weeks and the organs get to work.

Your little fetus weighs as much as half an ounce now, and the crown-to-rump length is about two and a half inches (the size of a large plum — busily working his or her way through the whole produce department). It's hard to believe (especially from the outside, since you're probably barely showing at this point), but your baby has more than doubled in size during the past three weeks. And that's just on the outside — there's plenty going on inside too. The fetal digestive system is beginning to flex its digestive muscle — literally — as it starts practicing contraction movements, a skill your baby will need after birth to push food through the digestive tract. The pituitary gland (at the base of the brain) has started producing the hormones that'll enable him (or her) to make babies of his (or her) own in a couple of decades or so. And the bone marrow is making white blood cells, which will one day help your baby fight infection (including all those germs passed around the snot-nosed playgroup).

Your Body in Week 12 of Pregnancy

If all those changes in your baby sound dizzying, that may just be you dealing with yet another problematic pregnancy symptom: Lots of women experience occasional dizziness and/or feel faint due to progesterone, which causes increased blood flow to your baby by relaxing your own blood vessels. The decrease in blood flow to your body and brain, along with typically lower blood-sugar levels during pregnancy, can set your world a-spinning. Do your part to keep your equilibrium by eating regularly, getting adequate rest, and standing up slowly.
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Information above can be found on the What to Expect website at http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week-12.aspx

weekend fun

2011-03-14T11:58:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, even with the cursed time change and pregnancy nausea, it was such a fun weekend! Our really good friends, the Pailes, came down to visit and hang out in Aggieland. Saturday consisted of pedicures for the girls, math talk for the guys, an Aggie baseball game with blue skies, a cool breeze, and 83 degree weather. I am so thankful for weekends like this past one because before long we will have a little one in tow which will make weekend outings a little bit more tricky. I am also incredibly thankful for the amazing friendships the Lord has placed in our life!

Thanks Pailes for making it a great weekend!

Psalm 139

2011-03-10T07:30:00.002-06:00

God's Word never ceases to amaze me, and for that I am thankful! It seems like with every new stage of life His Word is ever changing yet somehow remains the same. Take Psalm 139 for example, when I was a college student I read Psalm 139 and found comfort when I would struggle with self-image. As an adult I have read Psalm 139 and taken comfort in the fact that my future is in God's hands and that He wrote all of my days in His book even before I was born. Now, as an expectant mother, Psalm 139 has come alive again.

There are days when the enemy temps me with thoughts of things I cannot control. But I am thankful to serve a God who is in control! One who is in control of forming this little life inside of me! One who has already written all of her/his days in His book! One who already knows our little one!

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

"Certainly you made my mind and heart; you wove me together in my mother’s womb. I will give you thanks because your deeds are awesome and amazing. You knew me thoroughly; my bones were not hidden from you, when I was made in secret and sewed together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw me when I was inside the womb. All the days ordained for me were recorded in your scroll before one of them came into existence" (Ps 139:13-16).

sonogram pictures

2011-03-09T09:47:00.000-06:00

It was so fun on Monday to have another sonogram and get to see baby Wilkerson swimming around inside of me. And when I say swimming, I literally mean swimming! My doctor had a hard time getting a good picture because this little one is so active already! At one point I saw a foot come in contact with my uterus and the baby disappeared. My doctor said the baby had pushed off away from the sonogram. Apparently he/she didn't want to have its picture taken. How wild is that?!?! Its still too early for me to feel baby Wilkerson, so it was pretty wild to see our child moving around so much and to know that baby is inside of me. My heartstrings were definitely tugged on between seeing the sonogram and hearing the heartbeat!

The second picture below my doctor thought was a good butt picture, which just made me laugh. Can you see the butt, legs, and feet? Pretty cool huh?! We wont know the gender until our next sonogram on April 25th (yes we are finding out). People keep asking me if I think its a boy or a girl, and to be totally honest, as long as the baby is healthy ... that's all that really matters to me.

week 11

2011-03-07T11:52:00.000-06:00

Josh and I both have a pregnancy app (What to Expect) on our phones (yes, I have an awesome husband who keeps up with this whole pregnancy thing) and yesterday he read me week 11's rundown. As he was reading I kept say, "Check!" Its nice to know I'm not going crazy and my body is doing all of the "normal" pregnancy things. Nice to know ... but not so nice when putting my clothes on that use to fit like a glove. I want to yell at the top of my lungs, "I'm pregnant! It's not the doughnuts!" (see quote below).

To put it in perspective, here's part of the week 11 article ...

"At 11 weeks pregnant, your lower abdomen is probably just starting to protrude a bit now (though you likely still look less like you're pregnant and more like you've been overdoing the doughnuts). But even if it's still flat as a board (all women start to show at different times — and as you'll find out, all show differently), you're probably finding your jeans aren't buttoning without a struggle. You can blame the pregnancy hormone progesterone for that tight squeeze (actually, when you're pregnant, you can blame the hormone progesterone for just about everything)."

So yeah, week 11 is almost over and Wednesday starts week 12. Time just seems to be flying by! I'm praying that I have my mom's genes and the nausea, etc., will lessen as we enter the second trimester!

the news is out!

2011-03-02T14:07:00.000-06:00

Well, the news is out! We are expecting a little one at the end of September!!

Last weekend we made the trip up to Colleyville/Grapevine to tell our parents the news and needless to say, it was a super fun weekend!

We surprised my parents with a sculptural metal family tree that has small picture frames hanging from each branch. After they got a good look at the tree I unwrapped one more frame for them to hang that said, "Baby Wilkerson 9/28/11." My mom said, "Your pregnant!?!?!" and then there were some laughs, hugs, and congratulations. And to top it off, my grandma also happened to be in town from Illinois so she was there to share in the excitement with us! So fun!

Since Josh's folks are tried and true Aggie fans, we decided to give them Aggie grandparent car decals. Josh's mom was the first to look at the stickers and squealed with excitement. Josh's dad was looking on and just thought we gave her a really neat decal until he took a closer look at his own Aggie grandpa sticker. They were also really excited! After what was a really hard week for them, with their good friend and pastor suddenly passing away, it was really nice to bring them some joyful news!

So after a two month hiatus from blogging ... this is where were are in life. Its pretty wild to think that God has been forming this little life inside of me for 10 weeks now. I am so thankful for His grace and provision. Pregnancy has been pretty wild so far, and through all of the ups and downs I want to remember that He is the sovereign controller of my life. Praise Him for that!

tea time

2011-01-10T14:30:00.027-06:00

Well, its 2:30 on a Monday and I cant help but think back to those days when I worked at DTS. Around 2:30 or 3:00 I would have tea time with my good friend, SJ. We would chat about life, work, school, or nothing in particular, and enjoy a small break from our days. I miss that!

I think I'll go drink some tea (White Christmas by Harney & Sons to be exact) and reminisce. :)

pumpkin scones

2011-01-10T10:02:00.000-06:00

Hi, my name is Laura, and I'm a Starbucks pumpkin scone addict. [This is where you say, "Hi Laura"]

Its true. I love those sugary scones full of goodness ... especially with a good cup of coffee. I'm not sure why, but making scones has been a black hole in my baking world ... I love to eat them but have stayed away from making. Since, in my opinion, Starbucks should be called five-bucks (because its so expensive!), I decided to go out on a limb and attempt to make scones. After surfing the interwebs for a recipe I came across one that looked promising and oh geeze ... I'm in trouble. I think I could have eaten the whole batch! Yum!

P.S. Making scones isn't as scary as I thought it would be. It was actually an easy process and quite enjoyable ... especially the part where you eat them! :)

P.P.S. I am somewhat impressed by my iPhone's quality of pictures (see picture above).

Adventures in Aggieland

2011-01-07T13:13:00.001-06:00

Howdy! and happy New Year!

I still cannot believe that 2011 is here and that one year ago on January 9, 2010, we participated in a 2009 burn party with some of our really good friends who also had a rough 2009. Wow. Praise God for protection and healing in 2010.

As I'm still thinking about "resolutions" for 2011, and accomplished resolutions from 2010, I am excited about what God has in store for us this year. As I mentioned in a previous post, now that L.wilkerson Photography is up and running, I am going to make this blog private (password is aggies) starting January 14. Why keep up with both you ask ... for one reason, I want to share life with others. I realize that electronic communication can be shallow at times but I have to say, personally I love following friends and families blogs. And not just follow, but email about, comment about, and to stay connected (especially with our friends that now live far away!).

So here's to 2011 my friends and the start of another year!

L.wilkerson Photography on Facebook

2011-01-04T09:01:00.000-06:00

L.wilkerson Photography's Facebook page in also now up and running!

L.wilkerson photography is live!

2011-01-02T19:04:00.001-06:00

2 days behind my original due date ...however I am proud to announce that L.wilkerson photography has gone live! Visit my website at http://www.lwilkerson.com/.

This site is a work in progress but I am so thankful to have the shell of my new website put together. Over the next couple of weeks I will be back-posting from previous sessions, so stay tuned.

Enjoy!

its called vacation

2010-12-31T13:00:00.000-06:00

So, as you might have noticed, I have taken some time off of blogging. Its called vacation :) The past two weeks have been a wonderful break from "normal" life. Here's just a sneak peak of what we've been up to ...

[vacation at Lakeway Resort and Spa in Austin, TX]

[cookie baking for Christmas]

[Christmas at the Bonser's]

[brunch with good friends at Breadwinners, yum!]

thankfulness (day 37)

2010-12-17T08:15:00.002-06:00

that my Christmas break starts at noon today!!

thankfulness (day 36)

2010-12-16T08:27:00.002-06:00

for 2 weeks off of work over Christmas!

thankfulness (day 35)

2010-12-15T09:17:00.000-06:00

that He has called us out of darkness and into the light (and for BibleGateway.com and their daily advent devotionals, see today's below)!

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Opening prayer
Through him he has called us out of darkness into the light, out of ignorance into the knowledge of his glory, so that we might hope, Lord, in your name, for it is the foundation of all creation. --Clement of Rome

Scripture reading: Isaiah 35:1-10
(read on Bible Gateway)
1 The desert and the parched land will be glad;
the wilderness will rejoice and blossom.
Like the crocus, 2 it will burst into bloom;
it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy.
The glory of Lebanon will be given to it,
the splendor of Carmel and Sharon;
they will see the glory of the LORD,
the splendor of our God.

3 Strengthen the feeble hands,
steady the knees that give way;
4 say to those with fearful hearts,
"Be strong, do not fear;
your God will come,
he will come with vengeance;
with divine retribution
he will come to save you."

5 Then will the eyes of the blind be opened
and the ears of the deaf unstopped.
6 Then will the lame leap like a deer,
and the mute tongue shout for joy.
Water will gush forth in the wilderness
and streams in the desert.
7 The burning sand will become a pool,
the thirsty ground bubbling springs.
In the haunts where jackals once lay,
grass and reeds and papyrus will grow.

8 And a highway will be there;
it will be called the Way of Holiness;
it will be for those who walk on that Way.
The unclean will not journey on it;
wicked fools will not go about on it.
9 No lion will be there,
nor any ravenous beast;
they will not be found there.
But only the redeemed will walk there,
10 and those the LORD has rescued will return.
They will enter Zion with singing;
everlasting joy will crown their heads.
Gladness and joy will overtake them,
and sorrow and sighing will flee away.

Reflections from the church fathers:
The Soul That Is Parched (Gregory of Nyssa): For it is clear that it is not without soul or sense that he proclaims the good tidings of joy, but he speaks, by the figure of the desert, of the soul that is parched and unadorned. On the Baptism of Christ.

The Lord (Cyril of Alexandria): Observe how he names him Lord and calls him God, seeing that he speaks in the Spirit; note that he knew the Emmanuel would not be simply a man bearing God nor, of a truth, as one assumed as an agent. But he knew that he was truly God and incarnate. Letter 1.31.

An Extreme Humility (Augustine): Christ, you see, was going to come in the flesh, not anyone at all, not an angel, not an ambassador, but "he himself will come and save you." Sermon 293.8.

The Strides of the Interior Life (Chromatius of Aquileia): Whoever has gone astray from the way of righteousness or from the way of truth is altogether lame, even if his feet and legs are healthy, since he limps with his mind and soul. For the journey of faith and truth is traveled not with bodily steps but with strides of the interior life. Sermon 1.3-4.

Toil and Groaning (Augustine): Certainly hope is very necessary for us in our exile. It is what consoles us on the journey. When the traveler, after all, finds it wearisome walking along, he puts up with the fatique precisely because he hopes to arrive. Rob him of any hope of arriving, and immediately his strength for walking is broken. So the hope also which we have here is part and parcel of the justice of our exile and our journey. Sermon 158.8.

Closing prayer:
We ask you, almighty God, let our souls enjoy this their desire, to be enkindled by your Spirit, that being filled as lamps by your divine gift, we may shine like burning lights before the presence of your Son Christ at his coming; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. --The Gelasian Sacramentary

Today's Advent reading is from Ancient Christian Devotional, edited by Oden and Crosby.

thankfulness (day 34)

2010-12-14T08:18:00.000-06:00

that amongst this busy time of year, that there is need of only one thing ... to sit at the feet of Jesus and listen

"Now while they were on their way, it occurred that Jesus entered a certain village, and a woman named Martha received and welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister named Mary, who seated herself at the Lord's feet and was listening to His teaching. But Martha [overly occupied and too busy] was distracted with much serving; and she came up to Him and said, Lord, is it nothing to You that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me [to lend a hand and do her part along with me]! But the Lord replied to her by saying, Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; There is need of only one or but a few things. Mary has chosen the good portion [that which is to her advantage], which shall not be taken away from her" (Luke 10:38-42, Amplified Bible).

thankfulness (day 33)

2010-12-13T09:42:00.000-06:00

for God's Word

thankfulness (day 32)

2010-12-12T16:10:00.002-06:00

for wrapping Christmas gifts

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While the act of wrapping gifts itself isn't all that exciting ... its the meaning behind the gifts we give at Christmas that means the most. While wrapping gifts this year I was reminded of the joy that I feel when watching a loved one open a gift. I was also reminded of the joy I feel when I unwrap a thoughtful gift from a loved one.

Last Christmas I forgot about the most important gift of all time. Due to life circumstances my joy was depleted ... and I had forgotten about Jesus. I know that may sound silly, but its true. He was everywhere, yet I couldn't see Him. I had forgotten about God's gift to us, baby Jesus, the Son of God in human flesh. I had forgotten that Christmas wasn't the end ... that Easter came and the gift of Jesus became the most eternally significant gift.

This year, through all of the gift giving, I want to remember that it is just a taste of the joy I feel when "unwrapping" the gift of Jesus.

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"For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us;
And the government will rest on His shoulders;
And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace,
On the throne of David and over his kingdom,
To establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness
From then on and forevermore
The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this" (Isaiah 9:6-7).

thankfulness (day 31)

2010-12-11T08:57:00.000-06:00

for only 4.5 more business days until Christmas vacation!

thankfulness (day 30)

2010-12-10T20:00:00.000-06:00

for great coworkers who pick up the slack when you're sick

Christmas card picture & letter = stuck

2010-12-09T09:51:00.000-06:00

The title of this post should tell you everything. While we have a lot to report for 2010 ... and while we are soooo thankful that 2010 was not a repeat of 2009 ... I'm finding that we are having a severe lack of motivation and procrastination has set in regarding our Christmas card letter and picture. We have attempted a couple of pictures with the children (aka Hendricks and Ellie), however, not a single picture has made the cut. Its hard to photograph yourself and two squirming fur children! Maybe my expectations are too high ... who knows?!

I think this just about sums it up ...

thankfulness (day 29)

2010-12-09T08:43:00.000-06:00

for good doctors in B/CS

(I'm amazed at the difference between doctors in Dallas and B/CS ... its not the quality so much as the bedside manner that amazes me. I cannot remember a time when a doctor actually saw me at/on my appointment time, in Dallas it was usually a 30 minute to an hour wait. That hasn't been the case here, I haven't had to pay for parking, and the doctors actually sit, listen, and take their time with you. Wow! I love living in a small town!)

Straighter No Chaser, 12 Days of Christmas

2010-12-08T16:15:00.000-06:00

thankfulness (day 28)

2010-12-08T12:55:00.000-06:00

that Ellie graduated from puppy kindergarten last night (yay! she didn't get kicked out!!) ... pictures of "graduation" coming soon :)

thankfulness (day 27)

2010-12-07T08:26:00.000-06:00

for friends that send me mail just to catch up and say "hi" ... whether its an email, facebook message, or snail mail ... it reminds me how blessed I am to have such wonderful friends