A special Christmas message.....

From my family to yours -

Merry Christmas, Chelle!

Thank you for being such a great friend and for being here for me this past year. Alot has taken place in my life this year. It has been a tough year in some ways and yet it has been the best year of my life. I am so thankful for your friendship. Most of all thank you for being there for me when my dad had his heart attack and during my pregnancy. Thank you for every phone call, email, card and time you have invested being part of it all. I can't wait for Piercen to get here and for you to meet him!

I pray you have a blessed Christmas and a Happy New year....

love,
Chris~

Already Christmas from my couch....

YES! You got it.... I have already been having Christmas from my couch! I went to the doctor on yesterday and I get to spend the next few days *sounds better than two weeks hee hee* at home. He took me off work on Monday afternoon and I went back Thursday for a check up..... I am doing ok... bp is still somewhat elevated but it is good when I am relaxing so I choose to keep our little guy in and do Christmas from my couch! I did loose one pound of the 4 of fluid so I was proud of that. I know that what I am doing is working even though the swelling doesn't make me think so! It is so much better though! I am scheduled for our C Section on January 5th which is two weeks from today. We are so excited. I know some may say a C Section isn't the best choice because of the healing process but it has a few positives too. The most important is that Piercen is breech! He may or may not turn in two weeks.... we are excited too that we have a date set and everyone can be there. That is really important to Jeremy & I both. We have such wonderful family & friends and most of them will be there! We have prayed about it for 36 weeks now and know that our son will come the way and time God has planned. That is the blessing.....

So Christmas from my couch it is - I look at my tree and decorations and remind myself that this time in two weeks I will be the happiest mommy in the world (AND pray my bp is okay so I can lay on my moms couch on Christmas eve!). We have had some friends over already and its been entertaining ... I get to sit and do nothing -unwrap gifts and be waited on. WOW..... now I know how the children feel all over again! I had forgotten... thank you to my husband who has even had to finish up some of my last minute shopping! Lord only knows why this year I waited. I am normally done weeks before and this year I am pregnant and wasn't even close until recently. Jeremy is loving Wal-Mart since he has been there every day for me the past three days. And yes, that is a joke! A joke he is loving it, not a joke he has been there SO much!

Michelle, I know at some point you will be reading this. I just want to say I love you! You blessed me today and I am so humbled at your heart..... I realize just where God has brought us from and how he has blessed me beyond measure having a friend in you. Thank you for what you mean to me. You are a gift from him!

36 weeks Friday..

Well it is official.. I am off work and at home! I went to the doctor on Monday and I will be 36 weeks on Friday... I am on bedrest and return to see him on Thursday! My blood pressure was slightly elevated and I am retaining some fluid. Piercen is still breech so we scheduled my c section for January 5th. I have 16 days to go and I have to take it easy. I am just praying that this rest will help! I was a little discouraged as I left the office to have things stacked against me my entire pregnancy and get this far and this happen when indeed its been such a blessing! I know and trust the Lord knows exactly what he is doing.

My husband ---- WOW! He is so amazing... He is finishing my last min shopping and taking care of me. I am so blessed. You should feel the same about yours too but as I always say he is best guy in the world! We are both so excited to meet our son but want to make sure I try my best to get to 38 weeks.... pray for us! I appreciate all the emails, packages and gift for Piercen. You guys are all such a blessing to us! I hope you have a blessed Christmas. I am going to get to sit back, relax and just take it all in.

35 weeks and ECSTATIC.....

What a journey it has been... We have been married for eight years and it isn't going to be long until the birth of our son. God has been so good to us and we are thankful for every single day of this journey. Who would have ever thought ! I've dreamed of it and wondered what it would really be like but I never imagined it would be this wonderful ! I am thankful for every doctors appointment, every ultrasound, every sleepless night, every insulin shot, every bit of it!

We had our 4d ultrasound today and it was something! He has the chubbiest cheeks and looks alot like his daddy. I can honestly say I have seen several of these and most of them do really reveal alot of features of the baby. The only thing I could tell he had of mine was my lips! They said he is measuring 5 lbs and 11 oz. All in all he could be 5 lb 3 oz or as big as 6 lbs and 1 oz. I have known them to be off on a few babies who have been born recently so we will see! I still can't get over the cheeks! I was going to post a picture and Jeremy was unable to get those scanned because we ran out of time. I will try and post a few later. Piercen is breech as of right now and we hope he will turn in the next week. Everything looked good and we will see the doctor again on Monday for our weekly appointment and to see what he thinks in terms of c section or ???

Here are some pictures we had made two weeks ago. I have to say I am very proud of them! I think they will be something I will treasure forever!

33 weeks!
I love you Jeremy! You are going to be the best daddy in the whole world!
Jeremiah 1:5
This is our favorite!
We love you Piercen Kennedy!

I am still alive...

I really am! It has ben CrAzZZzY around here! Thank you for your emails and for the 'few' comments some of you have left. I am horrible lately at blogging... I am really going to try and be better. I wanted to update everyone on what has been going on and it is always so much easier from my blog rather than several emails! I hope to have my husband scan the rest of my pictures from our showers and such this week so I can get some picturs on here for everyone to see. I have had four showers and we are winding down to the last weeks before our little guys arrival.... we are ECSTATIC!

Since my last post my dad is doing really well. Thank you for the emails and most of all --- your prayers. He does have two blockages but there is blood flow and the medication is working. There isn't a need for surgery at this time. At first I was a little scared. One, I was afriad he'd have to have it done and would be recovering right at Piercen was born. Two, I was afraid if they didn't do it now and just fix the problem he may have another attack. I learned real quick that God is in control and I can't worry. He took care of him when he had his heart attack and he is taking care of him now. He is the same God as yesterday! The human in me has to remind myself of this from time to time. My mom has been such a trooper in all of this... she has taken such good care of him. Anyone who knows my dad --- knows my dad. Ha Ha! He is now exercising every day and eating right. He isn't a big guy at all and never has been but something else we have learned. Your health isn't only affected by your build and weight. You can be 5'3 and 150 and still be unhealthy. You gotta take care of yourself. With this and all the weight I have lost being pregnant I can't wait to get on the ball once Piercen is born.

It is that time of year! Christmas parties, Christmas dinners, Christmas caroling, Christmas plays, and before you know it -- Christmas eve and Christmas day! It all starts this week heavy for Jeremy & I. And did I mention Childbirth class, doctors appointments, preparing for these last few weeks befor the baby -- OH and work ... I am still working! I almost forgot about that. I will be 34 weeks on Saturday and we have our 4D ultrasound on the 13th. So you ladies who have been here and done this --- how do you please everyone? We already tried this the first time when we went to find out what the baby was. Now its the 4D and as much as I'd like to ask several to go Jeremy & I are thinking just having my mom and my dad. It is one of those things that I have thought alot about because it is such a special time. If you have any advice please send it my way... it has been a struggle for me. Honestly, the ones I felt would be by my side really haven't shared much of this time with me. Others I have grown so much closer to. It has been hard to understand at times. I am just trying to be true to myself and not regret any decisions I make. When Jeremy & I found out together on our anniversary that we were having a boy it was priceless! My mom came in as soon as we calmed down from excitement and I was happy to share that with her but you couldn't have paid me for it to be any other way.

Piercen is going to have several play mates. I have been pregnant with about 10 other people from around here and three of them we are really good friends with. Asher was born on Saturday 11/11 (here is his picture) http://www.growingfamily.com/webnursery/babypage_view.asp?URLID=9E0S9I6K7O

and Megan was born on Monday 11/13 (here is her picture)
http://www.growingfamily.com/webnursery/babypage_view.asp?URLID=8C5W0O2E1A

They won't be too far apart and birthday parties wil be lots of fun. Jeremys's sister Erin and her husband Shannon are expecting Trinity Jade any time now and Brian and Carol are having a boy in February and that is exciting too! Babies everywhere!

Hope this post finds you all doing well. I've been praying for you Veronica as I promised. Kristina I have a thank you card ready to mail to you - I didn't forget you! Promise! Thank you again for the gift. Piercen will love it.

~Happy Thanksgiving

I haven't had a lot of time to post much the past few weeks but I wanted to wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving and I pray that you will be blessed tomorrow as you spend time with your family and friends!

I have so much to be thankful for that if I began to name all of the blessings one by one I'd forget something OR there would be too many to name! God has been good to Jeremy & I this year and to our entire family as a whole. I am most thankful that God is still God, He is still on the throne! Without Him I'd be nothing and I'd have nothing! Thank you Heavenly Father for being who you are and what you mean in my life!

God bless you my friends....

In the midst of it all....

I am hanging in! I tell you ladies, I have had a rough few weeks but God never ceases to give mercy & grace! He will always give us what we need & exaclty when we need it to make it through the things we face in life.

Since my last post in October it has been a bumpy ride... my dad, brother and uncle went on a huge elk trip to Colorado and had a great time. While there they got both Elk and Cow and brought home what they call 'trophies'. They were both so proud. My dear husband didn't get to go this year with the upcoming birth of Piercen. We weren't sure at the time the trip was booked how I'd do and thank God it has been an amazing pregnancy. Jeremy is really looking foward to next year - they are already planning ahead! If you know anything about those kinds of hunts you know they are scheduled a year in advance!

When dad arrived home in the weeeee hours of the morning he was experiencing alot of pain in his left arm. He was visiting with friends and they just happend to check this bp. Unusual for him - high! His blood pressure is never high! My youngest brother Aaron and my mom took him to the doctor and they checked him out. The dr assured us that it was not his hear - it was a muscle and possible nerve damage. We just assumed the same because he has been on this trip, carried out his cow which weighed several hundred pounds and dad tends to have arthritis anyway. Funny thing --- his arm continued to hurt and the pain began to get really bad over the weekend. On Sunday morning the 29th my brother rushed him to the ER. He arrived while having a heart attack. Thank God the doctor was fast and they got him right in. They were able to adminster medication and get him to tests just in time. I believe with all my heart --- God is always right on time. They were able to take care of the blockage to his main artery with a stint. He was literally in surgery and out in 1 hr! He was monitored in ICU overnight and was released on Monday.

While home recovering he has been very sore and is learning he has to eat alot differently. He still has another blockage on the back side of his heart and it is 80% blocked. We go to the doctor on Tuesday of this week to find out what will happen from here. I have been praying the entire time that the medication would take care of it as alot of times it will because it isn't as serious. If the Lord chooses not to do so with medication he will be looking at another surgery. I pray that isn't the road we take but I know it is in the hands of God. Please pray for my dad - he is a pastor of our local church and he it it taking a toll on him spirtitually ... he so wants to preach. Not only that but anyone who knows him knows my dad has a heart of gold..... those people aren't just his church members -- they are family! We will know more after Tuesday how long he will not be able to preach. All I know is when it is his time to go back he will have both barrells loaded !! My mom has been the trooper I tell you --- she too has her sunday school class and does children's church so missing out is hard on her. She is taking such good care of him and making sure he is doing everything he should. She deserves a metal of honor I tell you! Jeremy has been extremely busy filling in for my dad. This is his slowest traveling time of the year especially with the holidays (Nov-Feb) and with Piercen coming! Pray for him - he isn't a pastor that is for sure but he is doing a great job and it takes a huge burden off of my dad knowing he can depend on him and not have to worry that anythign is slacking while he is unable to be there.

Being 30 weeks pregnant I have had some adventure! Stress isn't anything I like. I was just asking Amanda if I had told her lately how much I hate the devil..... I am so thankful God is always one step ahead of him. I would have to say that my pregnancy from the begining has been such a miracle. I have physically been healthier than I have ever been and being diabetic God has been so good to me. I've had several things since April to strengthen my faith and my walk with the Lord and although I haven't enjoyed the circumstances the lessons has been great blessings. If anything I needed to learn to trust HIM more and realize there may not always been something I can 'see' but I must trust. When they told us Piercen may have spinabifida as a mom I thought the worse but God whispered "Trust ME"... when I got the news dad was having a heart attack I burst into tears and my first reaction "PANIC".... I knew and believed the words "Trust ME"! I may not always know and I may not always see but he does and he does want me to trust him. My circumstances may some times overwhelm me but he knows exactly where I am and what I need. I know and beleive with all my heart he has been preparing me for the last 30 weeks for something........ motherhood. I'd never be able be the mother he would have me to be until I've learned to trust in him completely.... Jesus, I trust you. Regardless of the situation, the outcome, whether it is a good day or a bad day, a smile or a tear, a joy or a sorrow -- I trust you! Thank you for speaking to me!

Baby update -- I have gained one pound. Yes, one! You girls know how important this has been to me... I had lost 33 and gained 6 of it back in one month so I quit the eat out or atleast not every day for lunch. I have lost 5 of that so I am back on target! I am 30 weeks and starting to feel tired. Our little guy is kicking hard - he kicked a book off my tummy the other night! I felt him roll all the way over (I called it the toosie roll) on Tuesday night of this week! I don't know if its a first time mom thing but I write everything down so I can put it in my pregnancy journal. I have had 3 showers the last two weeks and we have gotten so many nice things! I hope to post pictures of them soon! The nursery is well on its way to being finished. I pick up his letters for above his bed this week and hope to get those put up. If we can find curtains we will be good to go other than waiting on more piece of furniture to come in! Once it is all finished I will post pictures! It is adorable I must say!

I wanted to add this picture of Michelle & I. This is her version of 'us' from one of my showers... she cropped it in for me and I love it! We are all smiles! Her birthday was Saturday and I wanted to say "Happy Birthday" to my dear friend. She has been so good to me! She has called me almost daily, made sure everyone knew what was going on with my dad, was a huge part in my shower for all my girlfriends and it turned out great! Yes, in October we had an LUAU! Pics to post of that as well! Michelle, I love you my friend - you bless my heart! OK OK so blogger isn't letting me post my picture! I will try it again!

Reason... Season.. Lifetime....

It seems many of us have been discussing 'friendships' on our blogs and even on emails I have received lately. I know God continues to show me daily what kind of friend I need to be and that is friend of HIS! I was sent this from one of my dearest friends Machele and it blessed me. I wanted to share it with each of you. You know I have come to learn that things to do change, people change and friendships change and it is really okay! I used to think I couldn't live if there were change but I now see change is good and when God does something it is for a reason. Whether you have a friend for a reason, a season or a lifetime there is a purpose!

I pray I will always find peace as I have now to accept it when something may not be forever!

My new philosophy is it isn't all about quantity but quality! Thank you Jesus for my friends!

PEOPLE COME INTO YOUR LIFE FOR A REASON


People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person. When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.


Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share,
grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant .

Thank you for being a part of my life, Whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.

one of the best in the world...

Aren't we lovely? Aren't we beautiful? This is Machele & I.. she is one of my dearest friends - one of the best in the
world. I've had alot of questions lately - done alot of soul
searching about what it is to really have a true friend. So many times we are concerned about quantity rather than quality! The older I get and as things change in my life, I come to realize I count myself blessed to find someone who is true, trustworthy, loyal, dependable, forgiving, available and genuine.... so many times friends are for a reason, maybe just a season and not a lifetime! God tells us in his word that to be a friend we must show ourselves friendly. This is my prayer that as I allow Christ to be a friend to me he will show me what kind of friend I should be for I long to be like him, I long to please him. Proverbs 17:17 says "A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother". God longs to be our best friend! I am thankful that when a reason has been fullfilled, a season has changed and someone is no longer in your lifetime even that too is still in his plan. No matter what changed, the sense of loss, he has a purpose and plan.
Thank you heavenly father for being my friend and for showing me how to love someone else as you'd have me to. Thank you for teaching me to be true, trustworthy, loyal, dependable, forgiving, available and genuine! There is no greater love, no greater friend than the friend of Jesus!
Chele - I love you! Your the best!

The Arkansas Traveler....

I am so glad that blogger is finally working for me tonight.....

This is my picture - one of my treasures! This is my PaPa standing beside the plane that he flew in WW 11. It was called the "Arkansas Traveler". It was a bomber - a B2 to be exact! God protected him from danger many times as he served our country.

We are so proud of him and excited to being naming Piercen after him!

Our baby boy....

WOW! It has been a while since I have had a chance to sit down & fill you in on what has been going on! There are so many mental notes I have been making trying to remember everything so hopefully I won't forget any of it. They say that comes with being pregnant -- imagine that! By the time I am finished it may turn out to be my blovel for today!

As many of you know we found out that we were expecting our first baby in May. It was the happiest time in our lives. Jeremy & I have been married for 8 years - we celebrated our 8th anniversary in September. I always believed in my heart that God would send us a baby in HIS timing as he has proven time and time again in our lives that not all things happen when or how we want them to but if it is HIS will it will come to pass. For many reasons I step back now and see the full picture --- I understand why God chose now and HIS timing is PERFECT! We've never been here before and it is everything -- PERFECT! We could never been more blessed. He is a great God and never ceases to amaze me.

As a few of you know, most of you do not but when I was 16 weeks along in my pregnancy they did all of the routine testing. For me they have been extra cautious with me being diabetic and to my doctor we are so thankful. When my tests came back I learned that I had made it to 16 weeks but needed to take insulin to insure that the baby would not be affected by me being diabetic and to try and prevent him from being so large that in the end I would be forced to have a C-Section (Prayerfully we believe this will be prevented but if needed I trust it will all turn out fine). One of my tests came back 1 in 185 % that our baby would have spina bifida..... while some say that is not very likely for a mom it is scary and for a first time mom it was something else! I realized the entire time that it was very slim being only a 1% chance but it still bothered me. Jeremy & I chose to tell a few people who we believe are prayer warriors and decided to go to Little Rock to be tested to find out for sure. With much prayer and the hand of God we found out that our baby indeed has a normal spine. Praise the Lord. I believe with all of my heart that this was a test for me... for me as a Christian, for me as a mom and for my faith. The entire process God was tugging on my heart "TRUST IN ME". As God spoke complete peace to Jeremy and gave him scripture that our baby was just fine he just kept speaking to me "TRUST IN ME". Not only does our baby boy not have any problems with his spine but his mommy has grown so much in the Lord over the past several months! I've learned that God is the ultimate physician and a test is a test... a physical test OR a spiritual test. For everything we face there is a purpose under heaven and this purpose was for my spiritual growth. And thank you for those who prayed with us!

After three ultrasounds we finally were able to find out the sex of our baby. What kept everyone on pins and needles was that at 18 weeks we could have found out while in Little Rock and we chose not to! Yes, everyone was like "WHAT" - some even said we knew and were holding out! This was not the case. Our first attempt here was unsuccessful as the baby was on his tummy.... in Little Rock we decided to wait and then the day of CRazIneS came! We took my mom, my dad, my mother in law, my mema, my aunt and my best friend Heather with us to the ultrasound! BOY that was something! This was the day the doctor ended up having to deliver two babies and when he finally got us back I was exhausted as well as frustrated... too many people! We waited and once the doctor returned we tried again needless to say but just wasn't meant to be. We ended up at dinner with 18 other family and friends waiting to hear the news and guess what ?!?!?!?!? There was no news to tell! I just laughed! I had a feeling all day long that day it wouldn't happen! Finally September 26th on our anniversary we were able to find out what the baby is! It was only Jeremy & I ... it was precious. A moment we will never forget. My mom came in a little later and wasn't a bit surprised to learn it's a BOY! She had told us that all along she thought he was a boy! She was right!

We have chosen a name for our son... his name will be Piercen Kennedy. We think it is perfect even if it won't be found on a Christmas ornament some place (Ha Ha Michelle). You all know me, I am anything but common. I love uncommon! Unique and different makes it even more special. William Kennedy was my grandfather's name - my moms dad! No one in our family has ever been named after him. He has been gone for several years now but my memories of him are alive! I was thrilled when Jeremy & I chose this name. My "PaPa" was a great man of God. He loved the Lord, was a devoted Christian and he truly loved his neighbor as himself. I never seen a greater love expressed in anyone than the love he had for others! He enjoyed traveling and camping - the RV was his toy! He loved being outside and was very active... I remember walking the dogs with him all the time. PaPa was a successful man and a well educated man. He was a pilot and this was so amazing to me. On Sunday afternoons he would take his family flying and had awesome vacations! Jeremy & I can sit and listen to the stories for hours. He flew in WW 11 and was the airport manager here at our local airport for several years. We believe Piercen's name is strong and bold!

Since my pregnancy I have lost 31 lbs but visited the doctor last week. I have gained a total of 3. I was in shock. each visit I have lost and 4 weeks ago I had gained 6 ounces.. this visit made a total of the 3 all together. With being diabetic I have tried to eat really healthy and I am pleased. My due date is still Jan 19th but they will begin to monitor the baby at 32 weeks. I pray he won't grow so big that I can't have him naturally but I am just TRUSTING IN HIM !

We have painted our nursery, have the bed and furniture in along with all the bedding.... I hope to post pictures of it once it is all completed. We still have to hang everything on the wall, get a rocker and put up the curtains. We did however buy a HUGE giraffe for his nursery... his name is Jingles. he is amost 5 ft tall. I love him! Jeremy just had to name him for Piercen!

Testing...

Testing.....


Blogger seems to be having problems OR my site is messing up one!?!?!

The week of our Anniversary...

This isn't a picture from the day of our Anniversary but this one was taken at a church shower for a friend of ours the week of our Anniversary! We keep trying to figure out how to take ones of ourselves! Ha Ha! Jeremys cheeks are beat red from the wind in MN while on his mission trip and my hair would have to be in my face, the lighting is horrible... my hair isn't black but needless to say I still love this picture!

I had my doctors appointment with my diabetic doctor today. I am doing great! I was a little disappointed I have to admit. I have lost 31 lbs since I was 5 weeks pregnant and I am now almost 24. I had hoped to make it to the 8th month without gaining anything.... well.. I didn't do it... I have gained my first "tiny" bit of weight! YES I have... 6 ounces! The doctor says it is possible it was the bottle of water I drank before I stepped on the scale but I will know for sure in 2 weeks when I do it again. No more sugar free M & M's for me! Ha Ha! I am so serious about this....

I am going to post tonight about our little guy and a picture to share with you. I would have already done so but we keep having scanner issues. I am telling Jeremy I need that new lap top! He just got one so I need one right !?!?!

We are proud to announce...

We are having a SON! We both are so excited!

I am going to write more about our little guy but it is late and I am exhausted. Our appointment was at 4:00 and it was perfect.. when we left we went to dinner for our Anniversary and then to Dillards to shop! I couldn't help myself. Polo and Tommy happend to be on sale! I will tell you all about him and how the appointment went along with our name for him and why it was chosen 1st chance I have!

Our 8th Anniversary and all was perfect!

??? Have I told you ???

Tomorrow is our 8 year Anniversary and have I told you that I am the luckiest woman in the world ?!?!? Yes I know what some are thinking but you can't make me think anything less -- I'm so blessed, I have the greatest husband ever. You should think exactly that about your husband too! Everyone woman should. If you can't then something is wrong. God has been so wonderful to me.... words could never express what my heart feels! Tomorrow is our 8th Anniversary and they have been the greatest times of my life yet I know the sweetest is yet to come. I am so looking forward to what tomorrow holds and the next day and the day after --- forever!

I hope to get to post some pictures of us and I have our pictures back from his mission trip and some pictures of my dear friends as well. Hopefully tomorrow we will get a new picture of our baby and maybe we can scan that one and post it too! Pray for us, we go to the doctor at 4:00 and it would make for an even more special day if we were to find out what the baby is.

I spent today in much thought and all afternoon after work preparing Jeremys gift. I can't wait to give it to him! I am so excited about it. We are pretty personal and we don't like to just 'tell all' especially over the internet but maybe he won't mind if I share some of what our day tomorrow. We'll see! I gave him one hint today - he asked for one (only one) so I threw him off... I told him I wanted a new car! Should have seen the look on his face. Our cars our paid for and we are wanting to buy a home so that really threw him off guard. Needless to say I was kidding ... wonder if I will end up with a plastic one ?!?!! He has such a sense of humor - there is no telling what he'll do to get me back for that one!

I've gotten a few posts, several emails and phone calls... do NOT worry...... if we find out what the baby is I will make calls inbetween the doctors office and our Anniversary dinner and then afterwards to try and reach everyone (I know some read my blog and don't have a blogger account so this message is for YOU guys). Britt, if you are reading this.... I love you and thank you for our card! I know it was you and not Aaron my wonderful brother who mailed it. Hee Hee! Leta, thanks for remembering our special day! Your email meant alot to me. Laura, if we find out what our baby is I PROMISE to call you! Michelle, let me make it out of the office hee hee. You will be one of the first to know. Don't panic. I am not keeping it a secret AND there are not two! Promise! Believe me, if we find out at this point I won't be able to contain it! Just remember the lastest we will know is next Monday. That makes me feel better already. Last but not least, keep your fingers crossed this isn't my first appointment to have gained anything! :0) Amanda, pray!

***Blogger stinks tonight! It won't let me upload anything***

GO Razorbacks!

Well... I am so excited. I have the best boss in the whole wide world.... I was able to get my husband tickets to the game today thanks to my boss! We went to get them lastnight and Jeremy was excited. The 50 yard line! He has been able to go to two home games this season and just loves it! DID I MENTION WE WON THE GAME TODAY ? GOOD JOB HOGS!

He loves football - such a man! It is so funny to hear him and his buddies talk.... even if he is with my dad and brothers they talk the game talk. The first game all the guys went - Jeremy, my dad and both my brothers --- you would have thought they had been on the field playing the game themselves. They never every call, every move each guy made, who scored what AND who caused the team a bad play! Cracks me up. Our we as women this bad when it comes to shopping, SALES, decorating, scrapping (that one is for you Michelle) ?!?!?!?

I went shopping today for maternity clothes with my good friend Machele.... she and I work together,go to church together, do lunch together, and still spend time together on the weekends. (She doesn't have a blog but she needs one! I am trying to talk her into it!) She is precious! A jewel. One of a kinda - it is rare to find a friend such as she is and I am blessed to have her in my life. She was saved - it will be a year this October and my daddy just baptized her two weeks ago. It was such a blessing. There is nothing like seeing someone you loved get saved and have such a heart change! God always gives what we need doesn't he? I was just thinking today while talking to her that God brought her into my life in the perfect time. We have known each other a long time, we even went to church together growing up but we never knew one another. I've had the chance to really know who she is and what God is doing in her life and through her. I am thankful that even in changing her and saving her he knew we'd be the best of friends. He knew I needed this friend in my life. He always knows what he is doing! BTW, the shopping was a huge success. I ended up getting a few things. I still need more jeans/pants! Do they not know short people get pregnant too ?!?!?

Hopefully you all had a great weekend. I spent the last hour chatting my head off with Michelle. Thank you, I needed someone to vent to. Soon hubby will be here to go to dinner and I'll get to her about those Razorbacks!
Tuesday is our next big day! I am not holding my breath but we may get to find out what our baby is.... God only knows! I think we have decided it may just be Jeremy & I to go OR maybe just my mom and dad. It would be wonderful to find out on our 8th anniversary! We'll see..

WOOOOW

My hubby is less than 2 hrs from home and boy am I glad. A week away this time was something for me I tell ya! I am ready to have him home for a while! They had a great trip in MN and was able to minister to both the adults and the children. He and my dad were able to hand out lots and lots of bibles, preach to them and win souls! They took alot of pictures so once we have a little extra time I will scan them and post some for you to see! The Indian tribe there is very neglected, forgotten and hungry. They were able to feed them every day and help them with things they needed done around the reservation. I can't wait for them to be go back next year because several of us are going. We plan to give our groceries, feed them every day, witness to them, have church services and teach them about Jesus. I am praying about what God would have me to do now! I am so thankful the mission trip was a great success and the Lord blessed. I have come to realize we all have a mission field to reach - it may be next door, down the street or a few states away. You don't have to go oversea or to another country to tell someone who is lost about Jesus. Amanda is full proof of that. If you have a chance read her story "Exciting News" from this week. It will bless your heart - it did mine!

I hope to have a fun filled, relaxing weekend! I went today and finally got a new cell phone. I love it! Its the smallest flip phone they make! Here is the picture of it...




??????? Tiny huh ??????? It really is this small....

Now if only I can figure it out. I went to get the Pink Razor and the girl talked me out of it. She could have made an extra $150 commission but she didn't care or so she said. She said they are having a lot of problems with the Razors - reception isn't good! If you have a Razor and love it don't hate me or anything - just telling you what the lady told me. I would think she'd be 100% honest especially over a sale difference of $150 bucks! <> Writing this made me think of Amanda's post about her new cell - hope I can figure out how to use mine!

You guys pray we can find out what our precious child is on Tuesday. Its our 8 year Anniversary - it would be wonderful AND I'd really love to get my nursery started seeing as how I have two beds, two everything on hold! I also have my first shower in October. My family wanted to do my first shower and to beat the others to it they are having it early. OH and I was teasing Michelle just today - I am going to find out what this baby is and not tell for a while.. she didn't like that one bit! The Lord is teaching her patience thru my child too!

And Again.....

Isn't this fun ?!?!? I had 80 emails in my inbox wondering what the baby is! We are going a week from tomorrow on the 26th to try again..... it will be our 8th Anniversary and we just may go alone this time! Last time it was crAZy with the gang. I find myself changing my mind frequently so that might change as well but I am loving the idea of it being our 8 year Anniversary & Jeremy was thrilled when I called to tell him about that! We'll see!

BeLIEVe it OR NoT

I am sorry I am just now posting. It has been a very long day and a longer night. I am so sad! BELIEVE it or not we didn't get to find out what our baby is.

My appointment was at 4:00. We all sat for an hour before they told us my doctor was called to "Catch" a baby - it shouldn't have taken but a few minutes. Next thing I know they call me back to tell me he said to wait on him, he'd come to my ultrasound when he was finished so they took me on back. We wait and wait - at 6:00 we find out he was down there fixing to come back up and another one was ready to push. Needless to say he delivered a boy AND a girl - sure wish I knew which ours was! Hee Hee! At 6:10 he comes in and does the ultrasound to find our little one on its tummy (again) and so he finally gets the baby to move and his pager goes off.... he pauses a few and makes a call to find he is going to have to go back up to help another doctor. He continues to find the baby is moving around like crazy when he gets his page - hurry! Needless to say we are now 6:30 and still are not sure what our baby is. I was disappointed and so is Jeremy!

I am telling you guys one thing - the Lord, he is teaching me patience because being calm, no worries and stress free with patience is something I am not. I have learned so many things being pregnant. I am so much calmer knowing God is in full control. I worry and stress from time to time but realize the truth of trusting HIM! I have to call in the morning to schedule our next appointment and ultrasound. Until then we will just keep wondering if we are having a son or daughter.

Thank you to all my friends and family who came both to the ultrasound and to dinner with us. Thank you to my blogging friends for the emails and posts.... you are all the greatest! This baby is so loved by many! We are blessed! So blessed! Jeremy is leaving for a mission trip so it will be atleast a week before we can reschedule. Please pray for him & my dad as they travel this week!

There is a reason, a purpose under heaven for everything ......

~Email

I just wanted to say thank you to my friends who have emailed me this week regarding the baby. It means alot that you girls think of me and have been praying for me. Some of you check on me from time to time while others do on a weekly and yet some times daily basis. I love you guys - your the best!

Lots of email -- yes I am going to let you all know as soon as I find out and yes I am going to reveal the names! Both for a boy and a girl have sentimental meaning to Jeremy & I. Just can't wait to call our baby by his or her name!

Again thank you to my online buddies and ones I call friends - Veronica, you are priceless! I've enjoyed our talks so much and the fact we have been pregnant at the same time. You've challenged me that no matter what - just be faithful to prayer! Amanda, thanks for all the pregnancy advice and tips. Most of all for praying for me when the tests were all being ran! I've learned "Trust HIM". Your scripture you shared with me - it has stuck! I believe your a prayer warrior! Kristina, your awesome and keep my blog looking awesome! You have a heart of God! You inspire me in some many area's of being a mommy - I can't name them all. Gwen, I just love you! I admire so many things about you! Knowing you in the little time I have has made me see that there isn't any challenge as a mother too big! Your kids are so blessed to have you as mommy!

Michelle - just one more day and it won't drive you crAZy anymore not knowing what this baby is! We've been through alot together over the years and I am glad you have been here for this! I hope you will be there to share with us the day the baby is born. I believe in you and I know what is deep inside you - God will finish the work he has started. Remember Proverbs 31 ... it will grow us and lead us as wives and as a mommy. Thank you for allowing God to be the center of our friendship - it is perfect. When it seems that no one cares & life is sometimes too hard, remember I love you and I am behind you cheering you on! Keep praying... be strong... victory is yours!

Heather - You have no idea what it means to me that you have chosen to be there tomorrow & for the birth of our baby. I remember being there when you found out that Mariah was a girl AND I will never forget the day you named her after her aunt Christy... I've always dreamed of this day - being a mommy and being one for the very first time is simply amazing. I am speechless, God once again has showed his power and his glory. You are MY prayer warrior! God knit our hearts together and I know life gets busy especially when we are both going in a million different directions. It may not always be ramon noodles and ketchup at 3 am but a lifetime is not too long to live as friends. I love you! (Yeah Yeah!) Some day we will walk streets of gold together! Remember God has seen your faithfullness, your obedience and he knows your hearts. He has those prayers bottled up inside. You challenge me beyond measure as a Godly wife! A pure example of what Jesus called us to be. AND... It shall come to pass! I believe with you....

I was just telling someone the other day of what I have learned about quality of a friend is the heart of what matters not quantity.... I could write to a million others but you girls were on my heart! Thank you for being my friends and for those of you far away - we may never meet in person this side of heaven but we will some day!

Two to go....

Only two more days to go ... no phone calls of cancellation, no change in appointment, and no word from the office this time. Looks like Thursday will be just fine! Unless this little one just refuses to let us know we will finally meet our son or daughter. It is awesome being pregnant and whichever God has chosen to give us is wonderful but I know there is going to be new feelings, new emotions and an even greater joy knowing which is growing inside of me. The anticipation has finally caught up with me (my family and some of our close friends were there weeks ago!) and I am ready! Jeremy called and the revival is going great but he too is ready to be home tomorrow and to our appointment on Thursday. We will celebrate with family and a few close friends Thursday evening over dinner..... I will keep you posted. Veronica, I will call you personally! :0) Email me and tell me how late is okay to call because we may be out for a while Thursday evening! Pray now that the baby will let us know!*!*!*!

You should see....

this house! We have been working for weeks and it has finally all come together! We have literally turned this place upside down. I can't believe all the things sitting in my garage. I keep asking Jeremy where in the world it all came from !?!?! Where did we have all this stuff ?!?!? From closets to drawers and ceilings to base boards! It is all organized and we have made room for baby! Now--- the hArD part! The garage sale this coming weekend! If you live anywhere close by as some of you do you should come check it all out.... its not just our things either its a 5/6 family sale! It is actally so much that we will have to wait for some to sell to be able to sit the remainder of some of it out.

In the process of all the cleaning and new purchases we made (you know those 300 'bright white' hangers and kitchen stuff as I told you about a few posts back) one I love is a new bombay chest Jeremy got for me to put in the staircase landing. It's beautiful! I went and got a plant to put on it (fake of course so I won't kill it) and some awesome picture frames. We are praying that Thursday we will be able to find out what our baby is so we can prepare the nursery. I am so excited about that I can't stand it. Believe it or not my first shower is the first weekend in October. It's not too far away and everyone is dying to know if we are having a boy or girl. We went to register but actually not officially... Jeremy is in revival this week and will return for the ultrasound but leaves again for a mission trip this weekend. This is his last long stretch to be gone so long and so far before the baby is born. I am thankful that over the next upcoming months he will be home more and closer to come when he is away. We picked everything out together so once the sex it finally revealed it can all come together! Have you ever known someone to have to go and pick out things for either or ?!?!? I wanted to be sure he and I did it together so it is the way we did it.

I've gotten several emails regarding my post on nesting... seems to be that you all have been there. Helps me to know I am not the only SiLlY one! I've told the hanger story a million times and it just cracks people up. It won't be the last funny I am sure because I have my list of other things to get done once all of the stuff is sold and the nursery is done. The windows inside and out and the cabinets need new liner. I may have to call Merry Maids if I wear Jeremy & I out (our moms too). What will be something after all of this is if a few other things fall into place for us and we end up buying our first home before the baby is born *!*!*!*!*

Red & White

(blogger isn't letting my post my pictures! I will try later!)

This weekend was so much fun! We shopped, ate out with friends/family, went to fish, shopped some more, went to the movies, you name it! Too bad its is over but alteast now there are only 4 days to go before the next one! My hubby got to go to the first Razorback game of the season even if they ended up loosing! He had a great time with his friends & his brother Daniel. We ran around a bit on Saturday together before the game checking out baby items for our registry. We will find out on the 14th (Lord willing) what our baby is and then my showers actually begin the 1st weekend of October. It is going to be a little early but with the holidays it is easier for everyone. Perfectly fine with us since this is our first and we are new at this!

When we came home on Saturday we came home to a door full of balloons -- Red & White galore. Razorback colors of course! Jeremy is a huge fan and we both love going to the games. We received this from some of our good friends who normally do this for Jeremy & I the opening of season! The baby also received some Razorback things that are adorable! Are your husbands like this ??? Do they have a favorite team ??? Jeremy is already excited about this coming weekend when they actually play at home again! Unusual.... He had such a busy spring & summer .. fall is busy but things really slow down some. I welcome him being home alot more!

Did you guys nest so they call it when you were pregnant ??? WOW... I didn't think such a thing was true but my is it ever. We have been from room to room, closet to closet, kitchen, you name it.. tonight is the huge closet downstairs and then the garage once we get to it. I am having a huge yard sale next weekend on Friday and Saturday. I can't believe the stuff we have! Wanna hear something cRAzzzY ??? I went thru our closets and we only use plastic hangers... I don't know what hit me but I wanted them all white and not off white either! So at 9:00 at night Jeremy is running from one WM to another buying over 300 hangers! Needless to say all of our hangers match, they are all bright white and boy did I feel silly once I was over my spell... :0) I am anal about my house and I know it... it has to be spotless but I have been so relaxed since being pg! I really have.. something has hit... they say it is the thing called ......nesting! I think Jeremy has it too... we (he) cleaned out all of the kitchen. You know how you 'collect' glasses and such over the years? Well, its all in the yard sale too! Forks bend, you loose pieces and such ??? YES ....All in the yard sale.... hopefully we now make enough to replace our expenses! I really hope some of you can relate! If not I am just soooo silly! Nesting.... so they say ?!?!

GUESS wHAt ?!?!?!

Just wanted to let everyone know that we didn't find out what our baby is (again) today! The ultrasound tech had the receptionist call and cancel my appointment. Come to find out my doctor didn't have any idea this had been done and and so here is the plan ....... My doctor himself is doing my ultrasound to let us know what this little one is on September 14th! My friends & family are going CrAZy having to wait! I was so upset when I found out it was cancelled. I was loving the anticipation of it all but so looking forward to today. I know God has something in store for this happening and as I have been told --- if it is to make sure without a doubt of what our baby is this is perfectly okay. I want to be sure because a friend of mine had to return all PINK! In all honesty, the Lord is teaching this little mommy patience! Oh, I almost forgot to report to you --- I lost another 2 lbs these past two weeks. I am so happy! Eating healthy sure pays off! I will keep you posted!

We are trying AgAiN

just a week away..... tHurSdAy !!!

Yes once again we will try to see what this little one is! Next Thursday @ 11:00 am. We are really excited. We have our names picked out for sure and I went by today to order a gift for Jeremy to give to him the morning we head over to the ultra sound!

Since being a diabetic the doctor has said the baby may be bigger... it was an inside joke between my husband and I that we'd have a "itty bitty" one because of the thought of it being bigger.... as in sumo wrestler! Ha Ha Funny thing.... everyone I know who is diabetic has had smaller babies! Jeremy now talks to the baby and calls he or she "itty bitty" so I went today and had a lady do a receiving blanket with a girraffe on it that says "Daddy's Itty Bitty"! it is going to be adorable! I also HAD to make sure to get one with a Arkansas Razorback that says "Daddy & I are HOG fans". I can't wait to give them to him!

Thanks for all your compliments to me about my weight loss... as one comment from Keri said it is kinda weird to say anything about that when your pregnant but healthy is very important to me! I have alot more to go when the baby is born. I have never set out to diet while being pregnant so don't think that!! God is just blessing me to be healthier for the baby as well as myself!

Tomorrow night is GNO (Girls Night Out) with my girlfriends and I can't wait. We are going to dinner, maybe some shopping and gotta see a CHICK FLICK! Wouldn't be GNO without it! We really have a good time and I am so blessed to be able to keep in touch with all my girlfriends - we grew up together and have known each other for years! As in 20 + years.. okay girls don't kill me... that does sound like forever ago!

Veronica, Thank you for your precious comment on my blog.... also I can't wait to find out what you are having !! Kristina, I am going to send you a pic really soon! You all have a great night. I am off to have dinner with my friend Machele.... hubby is in revival tonight! I soo miss him!

... a LoOOoP

I have to say how sorry I am to have thrown some of your for a 'loop'. My pictures "Thank Heaven for Little Boys" and "Thank Heaven for Little Girls" were just too cute... I had to post them but with the boy being on top it made some of you think we were having a BOY! I have had a few emails, phone calls and even ran into a friend today at lunch who said "you made me think you were having a BOY".... sorry!

I admit I was a disappointed on Friday when we were unable to find out what we were having. For one, we are ready to call this baby by his or her name! We are excited to reveal to family & friends the names and reason behind why we are naming our child the name we have chosen. Secondly, I am dying to get the nursery started and the furniture! BUT I must be patient.... Anyone who really knows me knows that I am not a patient person. The Lord is teaching me to be that is for sure!

I have to be honest though, it has been a blessing having not found out just yet. I never thought in a million years I would say that but it is true (Okay Michelle I know you really wanna know so you do not agree at all with that). The excitement and anticipation is something else! While I can't wait to know its been fUn, FuN, fun the past few days! People have called putting in a guess as to what they think the Lord is sending us and some of our special friends and eldery at church have just made our day! One lady told me that is all she thought about all day! I have come to realize deeply that God didn't just answer this prayer for Jeremy & I but we had people from all over praying for us --- it was a prayer God answered for many! It is so humbling to know that when some say they will pray, they will honestly seek the Lord on our behalf. God is such a great God!

You have all been a blessing to me and I thank you for checking on me. I am doing great and most of all feel so great. I have now lost 28 lbs and healthier every day. Yes, I said LOST 28 lbs. ....((( My doctor has praised me as long as they are good calories I am taking in and not empty ones!))) While moms welcome the opportunity to eat for two I have tried to be as healthy as possibe knowing I needed to AND it would be even harder to get off later. God has blessed every effort and after making these changes and feeling so good I can't say I will turn back even after the baby is born! This is just another answered prayer! My list could go on about answered prayers I am telling you and I know I will have more to report to you!

Veronica, I am praying for you today and the church situation! God will answer! Kristina, I am praying for your brother today. Sarah H, your on my heart girl --- remember your a child of the KING! He loves you!!! Michelle, your a YOUNG mom with OLD kids. You're awesome! Shannon, if you read this before GNO (Girls Night Out) Friday night --- I promise I won't post a picture to throw you for a LOOP next time! I'll call you instead!

Again....

I have tried to post again for the third time and once I am ready to save the post I get an error report and it erases my entire message to you. I will try again later!

The wait....

Well... the wait is going to be something else! Yesterday was my regular appointment with my OB doctor. I was given the great opportunity to be weighed, heard the heartbeat and .... had to cancel our 4D ultra sound for today! Good news! I have lost 28 lbs now. 9 right before I got pregnant and 19 since I my first appointment. Every two to three weeks because of me being a diabetic and at higher risk my doctor checks the heartbeat and if he can't get it really well with the doppler he will have me do a belly ultra sound.

.....Yesterday was one of those days! It was wonderful to get to see the baby and the heart rate is still 150-152 some say they can tell what it is by the heart rate --- its another 'some say' if you ask me! I did have to cancel the 4D to reveal the sex - well, I didn't have to but we chose to. She took a peek yesterday knowing we were bringing others with us the next day and she said everything is still so small AND the precious little thing was on its tummy, one arm under it and the other one --- sucking its thumb. No doubt about it -- a thumb sucker. If we would have went back today she said she would try again and maybe guess. I can't take a 'guess'. I am ordering nursery furniture, baby bedding and having someone come to paint the nursery... guessing isn't cool!



We go back on August 31st and will schedule it again then. It will be either Sept 1st or the days following labor day. I've gotten several emails so I am writing to you this way as we are fixing to walk out the door for the evening! I will respond to you all soon!

?? bOy OR gIrL ??

Your guess is as good as ours! Jeremy has said "It's a GIRL" for a really long time - actually since we have known we were expecting. Just yesterday he told me he wasn't sure! I haven't had a feeling either way. There are many reasons I think it could be a boy but just as many other reasons I think it could be a girl. So many people have told me that the mom usually has a feeling and 9 our of 10 times she is right. I just do not know!

I have done a little 'poll' to put into my journal just for fun... MANY people say girl. Infact, most of our close friends and family say girl but my mom thinks it is a boy and two other friends do. Veronica, I have your guess written down (boy). It is so funny at how people will try to guess by how you carry the baby or whether or not you have been sick. I have even had someone ask my if my belly has itched alot.... silly little things but I wonder just how true any of them really are! I know each woman is different and each pregnancy is different. I can honestly say -- it doesn't matter to Jeremy & I.

What is your guess ?

MORE

Friday is the big day for us! We are having our ultra sound to find out what this little baby is. Jeremy & I are excited and counting the days. I tell you, this pregnancy has honestly just flown. It hit me the other day that on the 19th I am half way finished. I can't ever go back and experience this perfect time in my life again... this has been the greatest experience in our lives! I would have never really known what love at first sight meant without having been blessed with this little life.

For many of you who know me know Jeremy & I have prayed for a baby for a while. While we didn't make it an 'obsession' to have one it was always on our prayer list. For a long time I longed for the day and my heart ached at the thought of never doing so. There would be times I would think "God are you ever going to bless us with a baby"? Some days I would even get kinda down and I would say "Jeremy, is it never going to be" ? He would always reply with "It will happen, it is in Gods timing, not ours". When I stop and look back over our lives in the past eight years I realize all along he had a perfect plan and now I can see that his timing was PERFECT --for only now. If God has taught me a million things he has taught me one thing a million times ---- TRUST HIM!

With me being diabetic I have prayed for a long time to have a healthy pregnancy. Honestly, with the exception of having to be put on insulin this pregnancy has been healthy. Today I weigh 27 1/2 lbs less than I did before it all began from eating healthy and having the desire to be healthy. I have been blessed to have been able to be put on the insulin, not to be sick doing so and to feel great. So many times I struggle with the mentality that I don't want to be daibetic... and the question.... why me?. God gently reminds me I must trust in HIM and he will see me to the end. I am also reminded that we all have a cross we have to bear. There is something in all of our lives whether it be physical, spiritual or whatever the cause may be.... it is in bearing our cross that we trust in HIM.

My whole pregnancy I have been full of great JOY! A joy I have never known before. My heart has overflown at the thought of the mercy and grace our God has shown to me. Just when I thought I was blessed I had no idea just how blessed God has really made me.... I could go on and on about this but to sum it all up for you one morning while on my way to work I heard a song and it has been in my heart every since. Every word of it! It is one of those songs that you really feel deep down minister to you. It is called MORE by Lauren Talley. If you have a chance please click on the link and it is under the tracking list of songs to listen to. It blesses me each time I hear it again. (It is actually part of the song, I couldn't find the entirety of the song on the net but you may be able to). God has honestly blessed me with so much more, more than I could ever ask him for. More than I had dreamed he had in store for me.... More than my hearts desire.... how could he possibly give more....

I can't wait!!!!

Well I have to share the news! We go next Friday on the 18th to find out whether we are having a boy or a girl. Jeremy & I are both so excited we can hardly stand it. We didn't think it would be til the 28th but I talked to the nurse today and asked for a 'favor'... I am looking forward to actually knowing what our baby is and being able to call him or her by name.

After next week we will be able to order our nursery furniture. We are going to decide on the color depending on the sex of the baby. Here is what we have picked out for a baby boy and this is the furniture we have decided for a baby girl. What do you think ??? We go tomorrow to check out the final swatches for the bedding. We have been undecided for both because the ones we really liked from pictures on the internet didn't look the same in person. I want to go more elegant and not so cute. I figure this will be the only time I have a say in what the room is decorated in. I just pray I never have to do Barney! :)

Hope you are all having a good week. Dad did a message lastnight and it was on the fruits of the spirit. I was really a good message. I hope to gather my thoughts and share it with you soon!

---Now '30 Something'

Well yesterday was another day for most people. For me, a little hard I should say. I know, I know, it shouldn't be that big of a deal but for some reason it was. I am no longer '30' but now '30 something'..... I turned 31 yesterday and it hit me! 30 wasn't a big deal to me but this birthday was. I guess I just feel I am getting OLD as Michelle said! Ha Ha!

I had a wonderful birthday... I celebrated this past weekend with family and friends. Yesterday I had lunch with Heather & Michelle and then lastnight my husband took my out. I always look forward to my birthday and this year was just as special I guess its just the age thing. Jeremy bought me the most beautiful necklace. I wish I had a picture to post. The one thing on our immediate list --- a digital camera and recorder! They are both a must really soon! I went to Dillards and spent all of my gift certificates and every dime my parents gave me! :0) If you haven't smelled Polo Blue check it out. I love it! Anyone who knows me knows I love flowers... I got roses from Jeremy and fresh flowers from Michelle. I honestly felt spoiled. Needless to say - I was blessed! Now to get over the fact I am no longer just 30!

Baby update! We went to the doctor on Monday. We had another ultra sound and NO we don't know what it is. The doctor has kept a close eye on me with me being diabetic but like everyone else I have to wait 18-20 weeks to find out what he or she is. We are dying to know! Heart beat was good, baby still as active as ever and sucking that little thumb. Great news! I have been going every 2 weeks and now I don't go back for 3. Thank you Lord for that! God is really helping me with the sugar control. He is such a great God! My next appointment is the 17th and that is when we will schedule to find out what this baby is. We have our nursery picked out for either a he or she so we will order furniture and bedding soon as we know. I'll keep you posted.

Did I tell you I know 14 people who are expecting! If you aren't one do not drink the water Ha Ha! Have a great weekend.

We serve such a great God!

I just wanted to take some time to write and let everyone know how things are going. This past week I have been another ---- bad blogger. For two weeks we had two people out of the office and that made for some craziness! This past week I had to attend meettings for work in OKC and it was a looong drawn out process! I was mentally exhausted. I am not sure if it happens to anyone else but since being pregnant it takes thought to even think! By the end of the day I can't even think, period. I had someone tell me if I feel stupid and like my brain has literally left me - it is a girl. Who knows! I have found one thing to be true, pregnancy is different in each individual and I have heard alot of silly things.

I feel so blessed. Many of you know I am not on insulin while I complete our pregnancy. I was really dreading it. Not because of the medicine but because it was a huge accomplishment for me to get my sugars under good control. I set pride aside and turned it over the God and he once again has blessed! I do not feel tired, sick, or really any symptoms. I realize that as the baby grows the more I will lack what both I and the baby needs to the dose will increase but I am encouraged. I understand this thing is very common and it is okay. Thanks to those of you who have sent stories about others you have known who are diabetic - it is my cross to take up and I am going to do it with a smile.

Reading Amanda's story on blessings galore it made me think of just how blessed I really am. In February and March we began to pray about me taking this job of mine. It is for a man in our church and they are a good Chrisian family.... I wanted to take it for all the right reasons yet being home and traveling full time with Jeremy far our weighed anything I could measure. I remember the day Jeremy and I decided we wouldn't do anything - not make any move period until we received the answer. You know one of those times that this could have been an answer but then it could have been the devil dangling something in front of you!?! I am sure we have all been there. So we did just that. We prayed day after day and waited. I would ask Jeremy "You heard our answer yet?" and He would ask me "Have you, feel anything in your spirit?" and nothing.... finally about two weeks later he calls me right after a service he had been in doing a revival. He says to me "You have to take it". All day long I knew he was going to call and give me an answer. Thing is, it wasn't the answer I wanted to hear. In all honesty, I didn't want to take the job - period. I didn't want to give up being on the road and being at home. Jeremy went on to explain to me in his prayer time why. He as the head of our home has always been an encouragement to me to seek Gods will for my life, for our life but at the same time feels he is accountable to God for what goes on in our family and the decisions we make. That is one thing I love most about him ! So many times I will let flesh try and tell me this or that and I some times get in the way. Not that we haven't ever taken the wrong path because I believe we have at times but I know in his heart he does all he can to make sure its a God thing. To make this short (Ha Ha) Jeremy felt the Lord say to him 'She needs to take the job' and he told me why....

God is so good at keeping his word. Even at times when we fail him he gently reminds us that he is in control and works all thing for our good. Exactly five weeks after starting my job we were expecting. We had no health nsurance or any benefits before I began working. God completed the work he started and he did exactly what he said he would do. He gave me this job to make a way for us to have this baby and it makes all the more sense to me now. We have been married for eight years in September and he knew all along the place in time and laid it all before us. Thank you Amanda for sharing your story this week because I haven't shared our story much at all and I realized from reading yours how God puts things in our path and sets it all up. Just as he knew you would need maternity clothes, groceries and other things he knew we needed health insurance because he knew the cost would be too great for us. We serve such a great God!

I am now 15 weeks pregnant and we expect to find out what this little one is in about three weeks! My next appintment is Monday and the ultra sound will be scheduled then. We can't wait!

A meme...

I don't do these often and they take some time but I thought this one was kinda cute...


A If you were an ANIMAL, what would you be? I would be a puppy, So hopefully I could stay inside all the time Ha Ha Especially during HOT days like we have been having!

B BOOKS: What’s on your reading list? The Bible, books by Elizabeth George, Beth Moore

C COMPULSIVE about anything? I can NOT stand a messy house! Everything has to have a place or its in the trash! I have to have a clean house…. Weekly!

D DREAMS - Do you … remember your dreams? keep a dream journal? I am keeping a pregnancy journal but nothing about dreams… I wish I’d dream if it was a boy or girl and maybe get a ‘hint’… ha ha.

E EATING - what’s your usual snack? They are usually pretty healthy… I love yogurt!

F A Few of your FAVORITE Things – my wedding ring, my bible, my family and friends, AND all my scrapbooks!

G GIGGLES! What (or who) makes you laugh? Do you have a good sense of humor? I think I have a great sense of humor! I love to laugh – I’d pick it over crying any day of the week. My husband cracks me up and our family – we have some of the best laughs at each other!

H major HOT Button: Wow… a good one! Right not HOT isn’t really what I get as far as temper but I have been HOT, HOT, HOT the past few days with the temps!

I I am ______________ a daughter of the King, Wife, Mother to be, Daughter, Sister, Friend and I love being me!

There wasn't a J ???

K Also KNOWN As… Aliases? Screen names? Those who are close to me call me Chris and a very select special few call me punkin’

L I LOVE … My Husband, Our baby, My family, My Friends, I love Life!.

M How do you feel about MEETING people? Do it all the time? Rarely? I meet new people often with traveling with my husband, I love it and I love making new friends!

N What’s the story of your NAME? were you named after anyone? Do you go by a nickname? Any aliases? I was named by my parents and my middle name is after my grandmother…. My nickname is Chris

O OBSERVANT - What’s around you right now? What do you see? Computer, Home Phone, Cell Phone, Water, Speakers, Bible

P Who are the special PEOPLE in your life? My husband, our baby, my parents, brothers, family and many friends

Q Any Little QUIRKs About Yourself: I worry , I am anal about my house!

R What do you like to do for RECREATION? Spend time with family and friends, lots of church functions, scrapbook, take pictures, shop… shop.. shop…

S Do You SING in the Shower? In the car? For your friends? If the mood strikes…

T What’s at the Top of your TO DO list?: Find out what this baby is :0)

U Any UNUSUAL Experiences: I’d have to think about this one a while…

V VEGAS,Vienna,Venice,Vladivostok… How far have you traveled? What’s your favorite City? I have traveled to many places.. lots of miles on the road… I want to see NYC and its on hold again !

W WINTER, Spring, Summer, Fall… What’s your favorite season? What makes it special? Fall because of the weather, football games, and the holidays are approaching!

X EXes - Things You Don’t Do Anymore (but did, once (would you, again?)) Eat out all the time

Y Any secret/deep YEARNINGS? To have our family complete with our new baby… to win someone to Jesus!

Z ZERO to ZENITH - Where are you in your life? Still growing? On an upward (or downward) curve? Just skating along? I think life is a journey, something new every day… its all about what is inbetween that matters… I always want to grow esepcially spiritually...

Seven people you want to tag...

1. Kristina
2. Veronica
3. Gwen
4. My eleven
5. Amanda
6. Stephanie
7. Kellie

A great week...

I just wanted to drop a few lines and say hello to everyone. I have been such a horrible blogger the past several weeks. I love blogging and I love all the friends I have made - I just have been so busy.

Last week I worked all week and there was a lady out of the office. I had a little more on my plate than usual and then we have Vacation Bible School each evening. I am so pleased with VBS. We had such a great turn out and God really blessed us. The kids were wonderful, we had one saved and they all said they learned from the lessons and had a good time. Several from church put alot of hard work into everything that was done - if your reading my blog... THANK YOU! God never ceases to amaze me at his goodness. He met with us each night and he blessed our socks off even in crafts! Thank you Jesus for the precious kids we were able to minister to. I know seeds were planted and now you will water!

We are doing well. I went back to my OB Dr today and ... I have lost 3 more lbs. I am up to 17 1/2. I know , some of you are saying "what" ??? It is okay for me to loose because I am diabetic and I am eating very healthy. I do have a drs appointment on Wednesday with the endocrinologist and from there she and my ob dr will decide if I need to take insulin. My blood sugars have been running between 120-145 in the mornings and they need to be 70-100. This isn't 'horrible' but long term.... I do not wish to have a 10 lb baby! Bet you all would agree! Ha Ha! Just pray for me, I have taken medicine before and infact was on it before I became pg. I was hoping to be able to go all the way without insulin but being diabetic.. its rare! God has blessed us abundantly and I am so greatful. Thank you all for your emails.. I have gotten several and thank you from the bottom of my heart for thinking of me! Like I said, I have been so busy.. I have been a horrible blogger. I am sorry and I appreciate you so much!

I've had a chance to catch up on a few reads... you guys have had some awesome stories to tell lately. Gwen, Kristina and Amanda -- you have blessed my heart. When I read there is so much I want to say, so much that tries to come out! It is amazing that we all have a story to tell and how someone else can share and it minister in some way whether big or small.

I love you ladies - all of you out there are such a blessing to me!

Hey Ladies!

Just wanted to drop in and say Hello! Its a busy week for me (sigh). Work is really busy this week and we have VBS. Jeremy & I have been working on VBS for a while now and Jeremy wrote all the lessons. Our theme is "Adventures in Bethlehem" . Tonight we finished up our props and some last minute decorating! I am praying its a huge success and many little lives are changed! We have had such great help and its going to be a great week!

Thank you all so much for your comments on my blog. All the little words of encouragement and advice from you "mommies" is special. You all sound like such wonderful parents and I just know you are! Your kids adore you and God smiles upon you for your love, devotion and sacrifices you make. I was just thinking about the impact that we make on our babies. WOW! I have such deep thoughts going on in this head of mine. So many times we talk about being pregnant and all the joys that come with it --- its really hit me! Hit me hard! We have a huge and I mean huge responsibility coming our way... I just want to make every single moment count AND I so desire for my little one to know Jesus.Thank you Lord for placing it on our hearts now to read your word , pray and talk to our baby about you! Even now I know we can impact this little one you have blessed us with!

Okay, so I am emotional.. this comes with it too right?!?!?! So they say... good thing or I wouldn't be 'normal' right now. Ha Ha ! You guys all have a great week. I am exhausted and am going to get some rest! Thanks for being such great buddies!

WHEW.....

It might be over! I tell you - I have had some crazy few weeks. I haven't been able to do much of anything and that includes resting. Week before last my cousin passed away along with her unborn child. The funeral was last Thursday and then while at the church working on some painting for Vacation Bible School props we got the call that my 99 year old great mema passed away. Because of the holiday we had a time getting the funeral arranged and getting our family here on time. They ended up not getting flights until Tuesday and didn't get to do the funeral until Wednesday. Everyone is home and resting! Please remember my mema when you pray. She was the who did everything for my great mema and so she will miss her greatly. I hope to get a picture of her posted soon - I am so proud of her and the legacy she left behind. She was a Godly woman and she loved the Lord with all her heart!

We had our first sonogram on Monday. We were so excited. This little one gave us a time. HE or SHE was all over the place. We laughed AND cried! Dr. Bell was doing the sonogram and the baby wouldn't stay in one place so he kept trying to get pictures. In one picture the baby does a flip flop and we have it ! We cracked up. He or she was moving his/her arms and legs all around. I really had no idea we would get so much detail at less than 12 weeks. We did and it was just amazing. There is nothing like the first time we saw this baby. I can't even put it into words how I felt. God is so good! Another picture we have is a little round face AND he or she sucking his or her thumb. I think this comes from mommy because I did as a child! :) We are in love with this little one! My due date has been moved up to Jan. 19th!

I go back to the dr on the 17th of this month to check my sugar once again. I have been keeping a log and they look really good but he changed a few things about me monitoring them and wants some different readings. He really staying on top of things. I am pleased with that. We want to do a 3D ultra sound - some say its really neat and others have told me they didn't really like it as well. If you have had one or even both let me know what you think. We are trying to make a decision. We will find out in August what it is! It can't come too soon!

Thank you all for your emails, comments you have left for me and your prayers! I appreciate you. I hope to be back to the blogging world more now as things slow down.

It has been a loooong week..

Sorry I haven't been blogging and reading others as I always do. We had the funeral for my cousin Andrea and her unborn child on Thursday. The family seems to be doing as well as possible. Her daughter Brianna is 11 and and her son John Michael is 5 to remember them espeically when you pray! I can not imagine loosing my mother. The thought is overwhelming! I just keep reminding myself that God knows exactly what he is doing even when some times we might not understand.

My great grandmother went home to be with the Lord lastnight at 9:05 p.m. This is something that wasn't easy to take but I know where she is and how long she has waited to go! She was blessed with 99 precious years to live her life and did she ever leave a legacy behind. She will be missed greatly. I am not sure at this point when her funeral will be because it is the weekend and a holiday weekend at that. We have family to fly in and flights are 12 hrs behind schedule because of the holiday on Tuesday.

We have a doctors appointment on Monday to hear this little ones heart beat. Jeremy & I are so excited! I will update once everything slows down a bit for us. I appreciate all the prayers and the emails and posts of encouragement. I know I have said it before but I will say it again - prayer changes everything! It makes it a little easier in situations like these this week when you have people praying. Thank you!

Happy 4th of July and God bless you and your family!

Please pray for me ....

I just wanted to log on for a few minutes and post instead of sending out so many different emails. I hope that if you read my blog that you will say a prayer for me. I have had a horrible day! My cousin who is 34 and she was pg (in her fourth month) died today. They think it was her heart but have sent to find out for sure. I also found out my great grandmother is very bad and they have called hospice in. I am a worrier - I worry alot! It is something I fight daily and am trying to gain victory over! I don't deal well with stress NOT being pg so being pg makes it worse. I really do not believe I will be able to handle a funeral and that makes me feel even worse! My mom says I have a baby to think about and if I can't it is okay.... please pray for me and please pray for our family. My cousin leaves behind two children and Terry her husband not only lost his wife but his unborn baby. I KNOW God knows - I know there is a purpose but may I see it.

Nine weeks

It is hard to believe I am nine weeks pg today! The past four weeks have flown by so fast. Everyone keeps telling my to enjoy every moment because it will be gone before I know it. This is exactly how I feel since finding out. It seems like yesterday but indeed it has been a month! I had Jeremy take my first picture today - I hope it turns out well.

I've been pretty busy planning our VBS at the church and it is all coming together. Basically we have props to paint and decorating to do the week of and it is all coming together. I am excited about it - Jeremy has put alot of hard work into the theme and lessons for this year. I know God will bless!

Have a question for you all - Amanda, you may be able to help me out - I was told getting my nails done and getting my hair foild while being pg was fine. I made my appointment for the 30th to have my hair done and then today I was told by a friend that I needed to wait til after my first trimester was over to foil my hair. I don't use bleach on my hair, no blonde but she said its the chemicals ? If anyone knows anything about this please let me know. My nurse told me foiling my hair was fine. This girl just can't stand her nails and hair not being done. I however will wait if its not good for our baby. :)

Work is going well and my boss it the greatest. I have become really close to one of my co-workers and she has turned out to be one of the greatest friends I have ever had. Honestly, I know me going to work there was God and I believe one reason was her friendship. I have needed a friend like her in my life for a very long time. Just one more thing to praise God about! I praise him for many things but I have to admit, when I pray and I see something before your eyes come to pass ---- it increases my faith so much!

Again, thank you all for emailing and posting on my blog. I have learned alot from all you moms out there!

This & That

Hey everyone! Hope this post finds you all doing well. Jeremy and I are doing great - baby is wonderful! I will be nine weeks pregnant on Tuesday. It is hard to believe that as of tomorrow we have known for 4 weeks! Time is flying and I just can't believe it. I just praise the Lord for all the wonderful things - my sugar is better than it has ever been. I am so thankful. It is my prayer that I won't have to take one insulin shot while carrying our baby.

I haven't been sick really much all - til this week! I haven't gotten sick if you know what I mean but I have been super quEEeezzZZY ! At first it was just from time to time and drinking something would cause it to pass. Now its alot of the day and I have questioned if it was here to stay a while. My mom was the type of person who when pregnant she couldn't raise her head out of bed in the mornings without crackers. Oooohhhhh I hope that won't be me. However, I have already told the Lord I prayed for this, it is a desire deep in my heart and I will not complain --- regardless! Don't laugh but something else different this week....... I can cry at the drop of a hat! Watching a movie, a commercial, something someone says to me, you name it! Is that normal ??? I'm still tired but not as much.

Jeremy was in Ohio this week for revival. They had a great crowd and had 11 saved. 11 more precious souls the devil doesn't have! I miss him when he is gone without me but I tell you to me there is just nothing like someone accepting Jesus! My heart is overflowing tonight.

I've not been doing well the past week keeping up with the online bible study but I hope to catch up and be able to keep up better. We have VBS coming up in July and I have been coordinating all of it and so I have been extra busy on top of ministry and working. Thank you all so much for your emails and comments on my blog. I love talking to moms because with this being my first pregnancy I have lots of questions and you all have so much wisdom and insight. I know we are all different and what is true for some may not be the exact for others but just knowing someone has been where I am helps me to know things that don't seem 'normal' after 30 years really are 'normal' being pg ! :) Like my nurse said "Christy, if its opposite of what it was - regardless of what it is, its normal being pg". Believe it or not, for the most part, it has been the case with me. :)

Just one question for all of you - when you were pg did ya have a hard time not buying things ? ? ? ? ? ? I can't shop without getting something every single time. I did it today for the 1st time and I am in denial. Ha Ha!

I'm going to catch up on my reads and I hope you guys have a great weekend. Happy Fathers Day to all the daddies! My husband has been reading Psalms to our baby every night and its a special time. I think he is going to be make an incredible daddy!

---- A new look

I love my blog! Kristina did such a great job. Thank you Kristina! I think it is adorable.....

Today hubby is flying out for Ohio for a week. I am going to miss him SO much! He has this one and one other trip between now and the end of August which calls for him to be gone an extended period of time and everything else is close enough to home he won't be gone as much between now and the end of summer. Anyone who knows me knows I go cRaAaZy when it is a loooong trip! I am praying for this revival, they always have an outstanding one and last year more than 20 people were saved. That is what it is all about.

My friend Paula and I are going over to the baby fair today. I am excited. I have been to a bridal fair but never to something like this. They say there are several vendors and lots to see. I couldn't help myself, I had to buy a few sleepers and a few other goodies! They are adorable. My excuse was thay they were on sale so I couldn't help but get them --- really I just had to!

Hope you guys are having a great weekend! The weather here is already really HOT! I'll be staying indoors! :)

I've been tagged with a few meme's so I will get those done soon!

Home....

We are finally home and I am so glad! I had a great time with Jeremy in AL but I am glad to be sleeping in my own bed. Honestly, before being pregnant it never bothered me in the least but now there isn't anything more comfortable than my own!

We had really good services and the preaching was out of this world! I heard a message this week that I will never forget.... it was titled "When the birds sing". So many times we are beaten down by the cares and troubles of this world - one thing after another goes wrong and the devil tries to keep our joy but we just need to hear the birds sing one more time! There is nothing like the sweetness of the song - and nothing compares to the stiring of the song in your heart! It came from the Song of Solomon chapter 2 verses 8-14. If you have a chance to read it do and let it bless your heart! I don't know if you like Southern Gospel but I was able to hear the Greene's (my favorite because of how they really worship) and the Whisnants (they sing Nail it to the Cross/New Day Dawing). They all did a great job in following the leadership of the Holy Spirit. There is nothing like being with a crowd of people who love the Lord, who will worship with all they have and not be afraid to! Being with our good friends --- made me think it was just a little bit of what heaven will be like!

I am doing good and feeling pretty well. This week I have to admit it, I have loved not working but its a must! My boss is wonderful, my friend Machele is such a joy to work with and I am blessed. The Lord has been so good to us with insurance and all the added! God knew exactly what he was doing and he was just on time! It humbles me in amazement. I still stant in Ahhhhh at him for our baby. Those of you who have prayed and really cried unto the Lord for something and he answered you know exacly what I am talking about! The best part of it is he keeps showing me that HIS timing in my life is SO perfect! I have been feeling a tad bit sick at my stomach from time to time but I just thank him for it! I've told Jeremy I want to go my whole pregnancy and have joy down in my heart - never a complaint because I have waited for this!

I've been catching up on my reads and am glad to know everyone is doing well. Gwen, you have been on my heart and I am praying for you! Veronica, I know you have been experiencing alot with the Lord and I hope you find your relationship with him just gets sweeter. Kristina, thanks for always been a constant encouragement to me. You are always such a positive and I need that! Amanda, your honesty will always set you free! There is always a fourth man walking in the fire! Becky, enjoy your summer! You deserve it! I love you guys! I've not meant to leave anyone out these things were just on my mind!

PS... my sugar is still running great! :)

Hey everyone...

Sorry I haven't been blogging much lately. I know some of you have left comments and emailed me and I hope I have responded to everyone. I have been super exhausted! I do not have a stressful job at all priase the Lord but I am adjusting to not being a night owl since being pregnant. I never dreamed I could sleep so much! I am not one to need alot of sleep. I could go to bed at midnight and get up at 6:45 and be good to go. Not anymore! I have been coming home either at lunch OR right after work and vegging out. Normally atleast two nights a week besides Wednesdays we are doing something with either family or friends when Jeremy is home. This is a huge adjustment for me but I know I need to rest.

HUGE PRAISE ITEM! I must confess.... I am diabetic and I haven't taken too good care of myself. Infact, my sugars weren't running well at all. Since learning of the baby I have been doing great. I have been taking such good care of myself AND eating as I should. I am off my diabetic medication and in one week my sugars are down and running better being PG than when they did not PG and on medication. Praise God! I have lost 6 lbs. I am not sick. I am just eating so healthy and watching everything I do. Some say not to loose, some say its ok. I am just doing what I need to do to eat right and its is all falling into place. I tell you, when God does something he does it RIGHT. EXACTLY right! I never want to fail to praise him.

My husband has been a huge help to me. I wish I could tell you everything that has taken place and how this little miracle has already change our life so. I'd be here writing forever. I would like to encourage you if you and your family do not have prayer time together --- try it. It is the most precious time ever. We have always prayed together but to hear him pray over our child is amazing. I can't put into words how my heart feels. I am so full of joy..... I hope you are all having a blessed week. I've been reading Galatians and enjoying it. I actually finished it lastnight. I hope you all have gotten a blessing out of it and I look forward to what God will lead Amanda to do next!

Again thanks for all your love, prayers, emails and phone calls... we are all doing great!