Phebe Eloise

On May 20th I was big and pregnant.  My body was starting to hurt whether I stood, sat down, laid down...I was just getting miserable.  I was ready to have the baby!  I had been praying every single day that God would help me to have the baby -- SOON.  I was so ready.

I had my weekly doctor's appointment scheduled for the next day, but I was going to call and ask if there were any cancellations because I just wanted to go in, have my doctor strip my membranes, and pray it would do something for me.  I had been dilated to 4 cm and my cervix was open and ready for weeks -- just no Phebe.

I just finished taking a shower when my phone rang.  The nurse asked if I could come in that afternoon instead of waiting till the next day.  YES!  My mom and sister came with me to the appointment.  My doctor swept my membranes (there were only 2 that she swiped...hardly anything was holding Phebe up anymore at that point) and then talked to me for a little bit.  She was even shocked I was still pregnant at that point.

She did tell me, though, that she was leaving for the weekend and wouldn't be back till Tuesday.  If I wanted her to deliver the baby before she left, I would have to schedule an induction for the next morning at 6:00 a.m.  I was so disappointed.  This whole pregnancy I prayed and asked God to allow me to go into labor on my own.  I had never experienced it and I really wanted to know what it felt like since this would be my last pregnancy.  I went ahead and scheduled my induction and felt discouraged.

After my appointment we went to Walmart to get some last minute items.  While walking around I did feel like my insides were going to fall out of my body, but no contractions quite yet.  We went home and had dinner with the whole family.  Around 8:30 p.m. I started feeling some contractions.  Nothing consistent, just here and there.  I decided to go on another walk hoping to cause more, but as soon as we went walking I felt like things stopped.  I was pretty irritable at that point.  I was not going to get what I wanted.  I felt like giving up.

I ended up going to bed.  I figured I might as well try and rest some before waking up so early.  Paul knew how discouraged I was, so he decided to help me take my mind off of it...by telling me fish stories.  See, the whole time my family visited the guys went fishing every single night!  They had so much fun and had plenty of stories to tell.  It actually did help me feel a little better.

Around 2:00 a.m. I woke up because of a hard contraction.  I laid there for a little bit and ended up feeling another strong one.  I got up and went to the bathroom and tried to figure out if it was just a fluky thing...or if this was the real deal.  I went back to bed and laid there for about 30-45 minutes before I woke Paul up and said, "I think this is it."

Paul got up and woke up my parents.  I slowly got out of bed in between contractions and went to sit on the exercise ball.  It didn't take long before my contractions were 1-2 minutes apart and my dad said, "And why are we not at the hospital yet?"

Getting in the car and driving to the hospital was pretty unpleasant for me.  I was very thankful we lived at the bottom of the hill and the hospital was only a couple blocks away!  Before I knew it we were in the room and I was getting hooked up.

I don't remember what time my water actually broke, but I felt the gush and immediately wanted to cry happy tears!  In the midst of pain I remember thanking God over and over for answering my request.  It may seem silly to others, but I wanted this so bad.

I only felt gushes of water here and there with contractions.  I figured Phebe must have been cutting off the water somehow because I didn't feel the huge ocean-like gush that I was used to when they would break my water with the others.

This labor was different than my other labors.  Because I was induced with the other ones I was used to the Pitocin contractions -- extreme and on top of each other.  Going into labor naturally is so opposite of that.  There were some breaks in between contractions that I actually dozed off until the next one hit.  Because the contractions were not on top of each other like I was used to, I just knew I would be in labor all day and I did not want that.  I never wanted drugs with any of my other labors, but this time I remember telling my mom and Paul both that I needed them.  I wasn't joking.  Get me the drugs.  My mom had to tell me more than once that it was too late -- I was dilated to 8 and Phebe was coming!  I didn't comprehend what she was saying because I wasn't having as many contractions...

It wasn't long before my favorite nurse came in to do the final check and my doctor was behind her.  They knew Phebe was cutting off the rest of the water, so my doctor finished breaking the sack with her fancy little hook and I immediately felt my body start to push.  I didn't know what was going on, but I pushed 3-4 times and here came beautiful, sweet Phebe and the rest of my water following behind helping to push her out.

Phebe Eloise was born at 7:45 a.m.  She weighed 8 lbs and was 20 1/2 inches long.

I can't help but tear up when I think of the story all over again.  Giving birth is one of the most amazing things I have every experienced -- and the fact that I was able to do it on my own without being induced...I cannot even begin to tell you how grateful I feel.  I will always be thankful for the Lord answering my prayer.  

Not long after Phebe was born people realized just how tired they were so one by one they left to go back to bed.  Paul and I crashed as well and slept for hours.  My other babies were not able to meet their new sister as soon as she was born because there was a ban at the hospital and no one under the age of 18 was allowed in the maternity section.  After everyone got some rest, though, we did sneak out of the maternity ward and down the hall so our little ones could say hello.  Thanks to my favorite nurse who will remain unnamed. :-)

Phebe is now 12 days old and is still adored by all.  She is the easiest baby...  She gets mauled all the time by her siblings showering her with sloppy, wet kisses and big, bear hugs.  She doesn't mind. :-)  She is so beautiful...  I look forward to the day when she is older and she wears matching outfits with Zoe -- but until that day comes, I will enjoy each and everyday I have left with a newborn in the house.  It's bittersweet to think about her being our last baby!

Easter

We don't take family pictures very often - and I haven't been taking pictures of my growing belly at all - so I thought I would share this picture that was taken yesterday at church.  At this point in my pregnancy I would rather not see myself, but I love seeing my kids dressed so snazzy in their Easter Sunday best!  Even my handsome husband looks extra handsome, doesn't he?

We had a great service in the morning, a potluck dinner with ham, chicken, mashed potatoes, German potatoes, green beans, mac-n-cheese, biscuits, and tons of different desserts!  I have a feeling I'm forgetting some things that were there - but you get the idea.  It was delicious!  After such a filling meal I could tell all the adults were ready for a Sunday afternoon nap, but the kids were very anxious to go outside and hunt for some eggs.

I love watching kids hunt for Easter eggs!  They get so excited running around with their cute little baskets.  I think this may have been Titus' first year hunting.  He picked up one egg and realized he could open it - and that there was candy inside so he sat himself down and enjoyed the treats in his one egg.  He couldn't care less about filling his basket with anything else.  It was too cute!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter with family and friends!  I am so thankful for a day to celebrate the life of Jesus Christ!  So, so thankful!

Please and Thank You

 

I read this quote the other day and have talked about it to more than one person.  Are you tired of me talking about it yet?  Well hold on!  I'm not done yet!

 

I really like this quote for a couple reasons:

 

1. I love Fred Astaire!
2. It's just really, really good!

 

One of my devotions had this to say this morning as well:

 

"We will be much more influential in the lives of our children if we practice what we preach. Why? Because our kids know when we're being hypocritical! When we complain that they do not treat us with respect, we need to be willing to ask ourselves if our actions and attitudes are worthy of their respect."


Talk about an eye opener.

You know, we always do our best to be on our best behavior while out in public.  But how we treat our husband and children when no one is looking is the real lesson your children will learn from!  Especially when we're having a bad day and we walk into a room we just cleaned.  ::clears throat::

OK.  I'm done. 

If you want children to keep their feet on the ground, put some responsibility on their shoulders.

I read this quote a few months ago and it has been stuck with me ever since!  I think it is a great reminder and I try to remind myself of it often -- especially when I'm feeling impatient and I know I could do it A LOT faster...

 

 

Now that Zoe has a "princess bed" she is more excited about making it everyday.  I think it is so cute to watch.  It may not be perfect, but I think she does a great job!

 

I also have Zoe try to teach Max how to make his bed.  He doesn't quite get it (understandably so) but he will eventually!

 

Titus has finally discovered how to army crawl FORWARD.  It's very exciting...but it's also more work for me! :-)  I vacuum daily and he still grazes on random things found on the floor.  Ugh  Now that he is army crawling he is more involved in Zoe and Max's play time.  They play with toys, read books, watch shows.. I love watching all 3 of my babies together!

 

I'm sure Paul will love this picture. ;-)  Zoe is teaching Max how to take care of babies.  How to hold them with their heads UP, how to change diapers, etc.  It was very sweet!

 

The babies and I walked to Story Time yesterday.  We learned about dirt, worms, and even mud tacos!  Afterward we all went outside and they enjoyed "dirt cups" on the lawn!  A perfect treat for a summer day!

 

Yesterday I was very busy.  I was on my feet all.day.long.  Woe is me, right? ;-)  When the kids finally went to bed I enjoyed an iced coffee (at 10:00 pm. Shame.) and even gave myself a quick pedicure!  I love Bath & Body Works' sugar scrubs!  They feel great!

 

So far this morning we have had breakfast, the kids are ready for the day, and...I'm still in my PJ's. :-)  Oh well.  Not everyday is perfect!

March 21

 

One year ago today, on March 21, 2012, World Down Syndrome Day was established by the United Nations. One year later, still over 90% of children diagnosed with Down Syndrome are aborted.

 

When my brothers, sisters and I were younger, we loved going to McDonald's in Walmart.  But it wasn't neccessarily to eat there.  We loved getting hugs from Tina.  She was a lady who had Down Syndrome that cleared the tables and mopped the floors.  When she saw us running she would drop andything and everything she had in her hands and give each of us the biggest, warmest, most loving hugs.  You immediately felt better after receiving one of Tina's famous hugs.

 

We never had heart-to-heart talks with Tina, actually, I don't think we talked at all.  We just got hugs and shared I love you's.  But I know I speak for all of my siblings when I say that we will remember Tina for the rest of our lives because of those hugs!

 

When I grow up, I want to give hugs like Tina and make them feel loved and special.

"Give me 5 minutes, Mom"

I had just asked Zoe to put her stuffed animals away, and this is the response I get --- "Give me 5 minutes, Mom."  My kids crack me up!  Want to know what I sound like and what words I use to express myself?  Hold a conversation with Zoe and Max and you'll know.  The other day while in the car Zoe said, "Oh no!  I forgot my phone at home!  Shoot!"  They repeat everything and I love it!  They are also teaching me to use my words wisely. =) 

 

 

 

I absolutely love the stages that all three of my children are in right now.  Zoe says the funniest things, and Max repeats the best he can!  They chase each other all day and I love to hear the laughter that ensues!  They have the best personalities and I am so thankful for that!  I thank the Lord everyday that I have happy children.

 

It won't be long now till Titus is right in the middle of all the action.  He discovered rolling over yesterday and has literally taken off!  He does not stay in one place anymore.  I am slowly getting to one of the fun stages where it doesn't seem like work all the time.

 

Board games are being played, as well as imagination games like tea parties, "house", grocery store, etc.  Hide-n-seek is a new game that they love to play if anyone is willing.

 

It still amazes me when I think of our "plan" as far as waiting till after Paul graduated college before starting a family.  God sent us a surprise that changed our lives in so many ways.  Our first baby may be in Heaven, but that sweet little baby made Paul and I realize we couldn't wait four years before we had little ones.  Did we expect to have so many so soon?  No, but we sure are happy that it ended up that way!

 

Hurley is howling because he just woke up and has to use the outdoor facilities so I guess I better go. =)  Happy Wednesday!

My first Pinterest Project

I'm really excited about what I found on Pinterest this morning!  But first, I have to share this video with you.  Have you heard of Vine?  It's an app for recording videos.  I caught Zoe and Max fighting this morning, and normally as soon as they start swatting at each other I nip it in the bud.  But I saw some video opportunity that I may want to see when they're older. ;)

 

 

Crazy kids. :)  I laughed so hard I was crying!  I don't know why, but I just thought it was funny.

 

Anyways, yes, I have my first Pinterest Project!  Look at the picture below.

 

This is a toddler bed that is made out of pallets!  I don't know why, but it seems like pallet furniture is really popular right now.  Some pieces look really cool while others don't.  When I saw this I immediately saw Zoe!  We could even paint it a prettier color.  And notice the "shelving" under the bed?  Perfect for storing books, right?!  I am super excited about this project.  Paul has pallets at work so this is going to work out perfect!

 

I just hope we can do it soon...

And just like that..

After texting, messaging, blogging, and googling..

 

 

I think I have figured out how to post pictures on my Blog again!  Yay me!

 

Here is the latest picture of my three beautiful kids!  Max was so excited to hold baby Titus!  I think the minor jealousy he felt towards Titus is now gone!  Thank you Jesus!

 

Here is a little update on the family:

 

Paul

The poor guy is still working 12 hour shifts Monday through Saturday.  He has been working this crazy shift, alone, since August of last year!  Thankfully he now has two part-timers that started yesterday!  No more loneliness for my man!  God is good!

 

Grace

I am doing my best to lose baby weight by watching calories and, when I can, working out by using a DVD, YouTube, or apps on my phone.  I have lost a lb a week so I'm slowly getting to where I want to be!  Thank you Jesus!

 

Zoe

I try to do school with Zoe for an hour everyday.  When I say school I mean flash cards, board games, etc.  She is getting so smart and she is such a comedian -- just like her Dad!  She is my daily entertainment!  She is also the perfect mother hen!  Don't mess with her bubbas!

 

Maximus

Max is currently trying to push out more teeth so he has kind of been a monster.  This boy has the worst temper ever -- yet he can be the happiest little fella too!  He absolutely adores Zoe and they follow each other around the house all day.  I have also noticed he is watching over Zoe's shoulder and learning a lot from the flash cards too!  He's a genius.

 

Titus

It looks like Titus is slowly losing his beautiful dark hair.  It also looks like he will be a blondie like his brother and sister.  It was fun while it lasted I guess!  He is so observant.  He'll just sit and watch you -- and he has the best smiles!  Just so happy and content with life.

 

As you can see we are doing great!  I'm so glad I figured out how to post pictures again!  More to come!

Introducing... (finally)

 

Titus Colin was born October 26th at around 1:20 p.m.  He was 7 lbs 10 oz and was 20 1/2 inches long.  We all are very, very happy he is finally here!

 

He is such a good baby.  He fusses only when there's something bothering him; dirty diaper, hungry, he needs to burp.  He is such a little snuggler!  He'll snuggle up and just sleep on your chest and he has the cutest little boy coos you've ever  heard.

 

Zoe and Max absolutely adore their new brother.  Zoe fell in love with Titus right away, but it took Max a couple weeks to even realize there was a third kid around.  Ha!  Thankfully he is very loving and will give Titus kisses and rub his head.

 

Speaking of his head...

 

Did you notice the hair?!

 

We all were very surprised to see all of that hair -- and how dark it is!  It still blows me away whenever I see it and I can't help but chuckle.  There always has to be an odd one in the family. ;)

 

It seems like so much has happened in the past three weeks.  I don't even know where to start!

 

Titus was born.  Duh. =)

 

While my family was here they helped me potty train Zoe.  She is doing AMAZING!  I am so proud of her!  She wears panties all day while we're home except for when she's asleep.  We are slowly having less and less accidents.  Maybe 1-2 a day.  She is really getting the hang of it.  She cracks me up, though, cause whenever she goes in the toilet she immediately says, "I'm so proud of you Mom!"  Silly girl.

 

Max can pretty much walk.  He just chooses not to.  I have no idea why!  He would rather crawl around and keep getting his clothes and the top of his socks dirty than walk like a big boy, even though he is encouraged by everyone -- especially Zoe.  Oh well.  The light bulb will come on one day and he'll walk all the time and I'll wish he wasn't so mobile. =)

 

I quit my job!  I am now a full-time mother and I LOVE it.  Working even a part-time job was absolutely impossible with three babies under the age of 3.  It was kind of stressful making the decision to quit, but I'm thankful God made a way for me to quit and we still be ok financially.  It feels good to worry only about my husband, my kids, our home, the laundry, cooking, etc.  I now have time to enjoy each of my children and not have stress and feel frazzled 24/7.

 

Life. Is. Good.  That's all I can say.  I feel so incredibly wonderful and I'm so, so thankful for the blessings that God showers on my family and I.  I'm probably the biggest nerd ever, but it makes me giddy writing up chore lists, daily schedules, menu planning, etc. because it means I'm more involved in my family!  I can do crafts and enjoy spontaneous outings because I'm a free woman doing what God wants me to do -- love my children.  I thank Him daily for this opportunity.

 

Until next time....

(Who know when that will be?! Ha!)

 

Springtime fun.

The weather was absolutely perfect this past weekend!  The kids and I took advantage of it and played outside.  Here are a few pictures of our day:

Zoe discovered ants and ladybugs for the first time.  She could watch them for hours!  On Sundays we normally are at church an hour ahead of time so Paul has time to prepare for the service.  I brought some toys and books, but I don't think Zoe looked at them once!  She was too busy holding ladybugs.  At one time she had seven ladybugs all over her dress and arms.  She was so giddy and excited!

After dinner we took a walk around the neighborhood as a family.  Paul brought his fancy camera and got some adorable shots of the kids!  He was too busy writing a paper for one of his classes to upload them, but as soon as he does I will make sure to share.  I might be a little biased, but our kids are absolutely beautiful!  And photogenic!

Right now I am sipping an iced coffee while my front door is wide open soaking up the warm and sunshine.  The kids are playing on the floor next to me -- I think they're even in better moods because of the weather!  After chores and work I think we will definitely have to go outside to play again!  I love this time of year.

Happy Monday!

Affection

I love affection.

It means the world to me when Paul grabs for my hand, kisses my head, or simply puts his arm around me.

Affection is something I crave!

I also love being affectionate to my kids.

We snuggle up together and I shower them both with kisses.

It makes me feel so good to see my kids be affectionate to one another.

How beautiful are these pictures?

I pray everyday that God will help me to show my children love.

I want my children to love Jesus with their whole heart.

I want my children to love their parents with their whole heart.

I want my children to love each other with their whole heart.

I want my children to love others as much as they love themselves.

Who is going to teach them?  I am.  They will learn it from their parents.

Have a wonderful weekend!  Hug your kids!

Blessed.

It is such a blessing to watch my babies interract with each other.  They love each other so much, and already are so protective of one another.  I'm so thankful I was able to capture this loving hug from big sister.  It melts my heart!

I hope and pray they always love each other the way they do now.  I hope they always have a bond that cannot be broken by anyone or anything.  I hope and pray they stand up for one another, and never let the other feel unloved or unwanted.

It makes me wish my own siblings lived closer.  I would love to spend time with my brothers and sisters today!