So Many Deer

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little angel.  Let me start by saying 'Thank You' for last night .... you fell asleep around 9:30pm-10pm.  We placed you on a pillow on our bed between us and let you sleep for about 20 minutes.  Then, daddy moved you (while still sleeping on the pillow) to your own bed in our room.  You stayed sleeping .... by yourself .... with no crying .... until 5:30am!  Woo hoo!  I think I only woke up twice last night to use the restroom and I checked on you both times.  Daddy's alarm went off at 6:30am, so if we can get one more hour out of you that would be great!  ;-)

Today was a chilly day.  It stayed in the 40's so I made sure to bundle you up whenever we went somewhere.  Mimi saved you a trip though .... she came over to watch you as I went to Peanut's OB appointment this morning.  

Today, I am 36 weeks and 1 day gestation with your sister.  Less than a week of technically being full term (37-40 weeks).  The appointment went well.  My blood pressure was good, no protein was found in my urine, and my weight is the heaviest I have ever been .... 153.6 lbs!  Whoa!  You two are going to have to help me lose this weight once Peanut arrives.  ;-)  So far, that's a 24.6 lb weight gain for this pregnancy.  I only gained 17 pounds with you, but that was at 30 weeks.  The doctors say that a 'healthy' weight gain is between 25-30 pounds, so we're ok.  

We still haven't started dilating yet, but Peanut is in position with her head down.  She continues to move and kick .... and I feel a different sort of pressure every once in a while.  Daddy and I are still trying to weigh the options between having a VBAC or another C-section.  Both have risks.  So, we'll continue to pray and talk about it and see what's best for Peanut.  My next appointment is in another week and Mimi will help with that one as well.

After my appointment, I made a quick trip to the store since you were taken care of with Mimi.  I picked up some ink for our printer so we can print a picture of you for Penny.  Then, I picked up a few little items so we can prepare the crock pot for tomorrow.  

You and Mimi were upstairs playing when I got back.  We all looked out the window and saw eight deer in our backyard!  They blend in with the trees, so it was really hard to see them all.  Daddy and I saw a bunch this morning too before he left for work.  The deer continued to walk around and sit in our backyard until around noon.  

Mimi left around 12:30pm, and I quickly made a lunch and then packed you up.  You had an eye appointment this afternoon at 2pm.  Your last exam was a year ago and the doctor wanted to see you for a yearly check up.  Dr. Board is a DOOK fan, so he got a kick out of our UNC stroller, UNC diaper bag, and the UNC sweatshirt I was wearing (which is actually your daddy's!).  You see, DOOK just lost their last basketball game!  Ha!  

Anyway, you apparently have a very mild case of nearsightedness and astigmatism.  Both are kind of canceling each other out at this point, but I'm sure one day you'll end up like me wearing glasses.  Don't worry, it's not that bad!  ;-)  You like to grab my glasses and throw them around .... I'm surprised I can still wear them!  

Since you just have a mild case, Dr. Board is recommending another yearly check up for you.  I felt bad though because I had to hold you down while they dilated your eyes and did the examination.  I held you and kissed you once it was over and you stopped crying.  :-)

At this point, you still hadn't taken a nap all day, so you were also getting grumpy at the appointment.  You took a tiny nap in the car, but then woke up once we were home.  We rested for about 1.5 hours until we had to go downstairs to make dinner.  We made a quick and easy tortellini pasta dinner (I got it at the store earlier) and then I tried to feed you.  

You are getting so picky and stubborn with your eating!  I seems like all you want these days are cereal, yogurt, and your formula, milk, or juice.  You're not really eating your meat and veggie meals.  We'll just have to continue to work on that because the pediatrician said your underweight.  :-P

Once daddy got home and we all had dinner, we took a drive to drop off daddy's car.  It needs an oil change and new brakes.  Since we have no appointments tomorrow, daddy will take my car to work as they work on his.  We already told both sets of grandparents though, in case of an emergency, that you and I will be without a car tomorrow.  Grandpa Jim's office is just a few miles from here, so he's the closest if something happens.  

We got back to house late and you took some formula and milk with daddy as I took a shower.  Then, daddy played you some banjo and guitar.  We ended up relaxing upstairs until you fell asleep.  :-)  I hope you sleep well tonight too. 

Sleep tight!  

I love you!  :-)

~Mommy

What's In A Name

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little cutie!  We all appeared to have a better night .... you ended up noodling next to us, as usual, but you stayed pretty content all night.  And, I didn't wake up as much as the night before either.  I think I was awake about every 3 hours .... which, even if it doesn't sound like it, is a great improvement!  ;-)

This morning you actually ended up sleeping in some.  We were planning on heading to church since we missed it last week, but we couldn't get all of us ready in time.  By the time you finished your breakfast, we didn't have time for both daddy and I take showers and still get you ready.  So, we did a bunch of chores around the house.  

The living room and study downstairs got a good vacuum .... and the kitchen and dining room got swept.  You crawl all around those floors now so I need to make sure I keep up with you with cleaning those floors!  Then, we did a load of your laundry.  I rearranged some things in the bonus room to prepare for Peanut.  We moved her swing to the other side of the couch so that a glider/rocker would fit.  Daddy hung some draperies in the bonus room and then another wall hanger for an instrument.  Now, when you and Peanut get really mobile, we have three hangers on the wall that you all can't reach!  That way, we can keep a banjo, a guitar, and a mandolin out to practice with but won't be in your way.

By lunch time we were tired, so we took a break to eat and then sat down for a while and just played with you.  We put the television on and watched a little bit of Sherlock Holmes (you appeared to be getting into the mystery too!).  While we were working, we just had a CD on while you played.  ;-)

After relaxing for a little bit, we packed you up and went over to Mimi's house.  Grandpa Mike and daddy looked at daddy's car.  He needs new brake pads and an oil change.  They weren't sure if the brake pads were something they could do themselves, but after examining the car, it was decided to just take it somewhere.  

You and I stayed in the house with Mimi.  Mimi picked up some 'newborn' size diapers for Peanut, which we brought back here, and you ate some animal crackers .... err, well, you sucked on them and then threw them, but you had fun.  ;-)

We ate dinner with Mimi and Grandpa Mike and then you fell asleep in the car as daddy drove us home.  You fought a nap all day, so you were getting grumpy during dinner.  You stayed sleeping once we got home, so daddy watched you as I took a shower.  When I got out, I sat next to you and then had a sneezing attack!  Oops!  My sneezing woke you right up!  So, we played with you, you ate a little, and then we got you ready for bed in fresh pajamas and brushed your teeth.  You eventually fell asleep on daddy.  :-)

Tomorrow, we have an OB appointment with Peanut in the morning, and then you have an eye appointment in the afternoon.  Mimi is coming over in the morning to watch you as I go to the doctor.  Since we're on weekly appointments, and we don't know if something will happen, Mimi will try to watch you each time just in case.  Also, daddy and I decided on a name for little Peanut.  We've said it a few times around the house, but we never made it official.  I'll go ahead and whisper it to you .... but keep it a secret for now.  ;-)

I hope the eye appointment goes well .... last year I had to hold you while Dr. Board looked at your eyes and you were not a happy camper!  

Sleep tight little one!

I love you very much!  :-)

~Mommy

-------------------------

Dearest Peanut~

"What's in a name? That which we call a rose

By any other name would smell as sweet."

Romeo and Juliet (II, ii, 1-2)

Hello little miracle!  I'm sure at some point in your life you'll have to read this play by William Shakespeare.  I believe I was in high school when my class read it.  It's a famous story of 'star-crossed' lovers .... Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet fall in love though their families war and feud.

In this scene, Juliet tells Romeo that his last name is artificial and meaningless to her, and that she loves him, and not the Montague name and not the Montague family.  Romeo, out of his passion and love for Juliet, then rejects his family name to be with her.

Daddy and I have been thinking a lot recently about what to name you and what your name will mean.  We've had several different ideas and suggestions given to us.  But, today, we finally decided on what your name should be.  

Today I am 36 weeks gestation with you .... 37-40 is considered full term so we're almost there!  In your brother's case, we were forced to make a decision about his name 6 weeks prior at 30 weeks!  

I've called you by your name a few times .... mostly when it's just Joshua, you, and me around the house.  We were undecided about first and middle names for a while, but as of late, the same name has been on the top of our list .... so, just like when we named your brother .... daddy and I did a pinky shake and decided on your name .... and .... you already know what it is since we told you and Joshua .... though I can't say I'll stop calling you Peanut once you're born.  It's such a cute nickname!  ;-)

Both your first and middle names have Biblical connections .... just like your brother's name.  Your name is a family name and very beautiful.  :-)  

Tonight, as daddy and Joshua fell asleep, I felt you kick all around and thought of our special relationship.  I never got to the point of really feeling your brother move all around and kick me so much.  He and I got sick so early.  This is something new for me and something that I will always cherish.  I have to admit, once you're born, I'm going to miss your kicks!  Daddy has felt them,  Joshua has felt them, and even some of my coworkers have felt your kicks!  

Little Peanut, we're so blessed to have you in our lives, and no matter how scared we are about starting this new adventure with two children .... we wouldn't trade it for anything.  You and your brother are the most important people in our lives .... know that daddy and I will always be here for you.  

I love you very much .... forever and ever!  :-)

~Mommy

Pancakes

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little miracle!  Well, since we went to bed a little early last night, I ended up waking up a little early.  I was still up and awake every 2 hours, or so, but by 7am I couldn't really stay in bed anymore.  So, I got up, checked my email, and then went downstairs to do some things and start breakfast.  I made some pancakes for daddy and I, and I ended up making a very small one for you to try.  You ate your oatmeal and drank your formula and milk, but then you kind of dismissed the pancake.  We tried several times to see if you'd like it, but you would barely even taste it!  Trust me, one day you'll ask me to make you pancakes!  ;-)

After breakfast, we came up stairs to let you play and daddy and I took  showers.  Uncle Brennan and Aunt Katie came over to see you and to watch some soccer.  As daddy was in the shower, the doorbell rang and daddy's banjo arrived!  Did I tell you daddy found a deal on a used Deering banjo online?  I believe I did because you and I had to pick up the bank check last friday.  :-P  Anyway, daddy immediately took it out, set it up, tuned it, and started playing.  

While one of the soccer games was on, daddy and I ran to Harry's to pick up my mandolin and gas up my car.  Uncle Brennan and Aunt Katie watched you as we ran our errand.  Now, I can work on the mandolin while daddy noodles on his banjo.  ;-)  You acted 'sleepy' for your aunt and uncle, but you never took a nap.  Daddy and I have seen that before!  ;-)

We swung by and picked up some lunch for us.  We brought home some Mexican and you tried some of Aunt Katie's refried beans!  Ha!  Then, you took about three bites of your own food before getting fussy.  You drank your bottle though.

After lunch, we went back upstairs and waited for the UNC basketball game.  Remember that cradle swing that we picked up for Peanut at the Kid Exchange last week?  Well, the weight limit is 25 lbs, so we put you in there for fun to see if you'd like it.  You swung around and kept looking at yourself in the mirror above you as you babbled and giggled.  It was cute!  

The UNC vs NC State basketball game came on at 2pm.  Uncle Brennan and Aunt Katie left during the first half.  I still felt congested and my ears are still clogged.  So, I rocked you right before half time and you fell asleep on me and Peanut (she kicked you by the way!).  Right when the second half was starting, I placed you on a pillow between daddy and I and then I ended up falling asleep too!  Daddy watched the whole game .... we won by 20 points!  Woo hoo!  You stayed sleeping even when the game was over, but I woke up a little after the game.

Once you woke up, it was almost dinner time, so we headed downstairs.  You ate a lot of cheerios and a cracker.  You still didn't want your chicken and veggie mix.  So, we gave you a sippy cup of formula.  We then headed to Target to get a few things.  It was after 7pm at this point to the store was pretty empty.  We were able to pop in and out relatively fast.  We got a frame for Penny that says "Nana" .... we'll put a nice picture of you in it and give it to her for your 'One Year Anniversary.'  :-)

Afterward, we relaxed in the bonus room.  Daddy and I put you in some cozy pajamas and brushed your teeth.  You played a little and then fell asleep next to daddy.  :-)

Tomorrow, we're going over to see Mimi and Grandpa Mike.  Daddy needs some work on his car, so he and Grandpa Mike are going to take a look at it.  We'll probably play with Mimi while they're working.

Sleep tight little Joshua!

I love you!

~Mommy

Sixty Seven Weeks

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little miracle!  Today you are sixty seven weeks old .... or, 15 and a half months old.  ;-)  Time has really flown by!  

Guess what we saw this morning at breakfast .... deer in our back yard again!  I was able to get some pictures this time of one relatively close to the house (we saw two).  They were so pretty!

So, today the two of us were 'dead to the world' so to speak.  You woke up sounding congested with a runny nose.  I 'woke up' (if you can say that considering I didn't really sleep well to begin with) congested, having a runny nose, ears clogged, and with watery eyes.  Ugh!  I hate being sick!  We never even left the house .... except to check the mail.  We were so pitiful today!  My intention was to at least go pick up the mandolin, but I just didn't feel like packing you up and driving us across town feeling that way.  It was better to just stay here and rest.  I had some throat drops that I used during the day, but if things don't get better, I may need to take something stronger .... which I hate doing with Peanut.

The good news, is that Peanut was active today .... the most active of the three of us!  Ha!  I took my temperature at one point today since I thought I might be a little warm, but I didn't have a fever .... thank goodness.  

You took a pretty long nap this afternoon .... which I greatly appreciated because I then curled up next to you .... read a few little short stories from my book and then tried to drain my nose and nap too.  You were more active later in the afternoon, after having some thing to eat and drink .and your nose wasn't as runny after your long nap.  

Before daddy got home, we made some eggs with veggies, toast, and bacon for dinner.  Then, we played upstairs.  Daddy was a big help watching you so I could rest on the couch.  You ended up falling asleep on him kind of early, so we were in bed about an hour earlier than normal.  ;-)  

Tomorrow, we'll try to run our errands.  I hope we both feel better!  

Sleep tight little cutie!

I love you very much!

~Mommy

One Year Together

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little precious!  We had an exciting morning .... you tried to crawl off the bed again!  Ugh!  You woke up at some weird hour crying .... as usual .... and noodled into our bed.  I think you're having separation issues and need someone there in order to sleep.  Maybe, when you and Peanut are a little older, you two can be together to sleep and then daddy and I can sleep through the night!  :-P

Anyway, you scared me when you got close and hit your head on the side of the bed of the bed.  You cried and I tried to rock you and kiss your little head.  You eventually fell back to sleep next to us.  I don't even know what time this was, but I'm willing to guess this occurred around 3am.  :-P  And, I had to be at work early again today, which didn't help matters since it took me a little while to fall back asleep.  You were still sleeping when I left for work, so I rubbed the back of your little neck and said, "I love you" as I was leaving.  :-)

I was able to leave work a little early and got home around 6:20pm!  Woo hoo!  I ate lunch really late though because I got caught in a difficult surgical extraction of an upper canine, so I sat with you and daddy for dinner (I ate something later that evening when Peanut got hungry).  

Penny had something special in the kitchen when daddy and I got home .... she made brownies and had a card for us .... this week celebrates one year together for you two!  One year ago my maternity leave was over and I had to go back to work part time.  The card was so sweet and she's excited to start another year with us with the addition of Peanut!  I can't believe it's been a whole year!  Oh, and the brownies were good!  ;-)

We all played upstairs this evening in the bonus room.  I gave you a bath .... but then you ended up peeing in the tub .... daddy held you as I drained the tub so we could finish your bath and then you peed on his foot!  Whoa!  I guess we didn't time that very well, huh?  ;-)  

I was still really congested today and now my ears are clogged.  I think I may have to see an allergist once Peanut arrives if things don't get better after she's born.  We'll see what happens.

Tomorrow we get to spend the day together!  I love those kinds of days!  

Sleep tight little miracle!

I love you!  :-)

~Mommy

Sleeping When I Left

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little man!  Today you and Penny had fun while daddy and I were at work.  You all had some floor time with some walking practice.  You played 'hide and seek' with Penny and apparently loved it!  You also continued to practice stacking your blocks.  I can see improvements with your stacking when I'm playing with you, though you still love to throw things.  ;-)

I had a pretty miserable night last night .... I couldn't breathe at all and continue to have a sore throat.  I'm hoping this isn't something more than allergies, but I'm beginning to think I have a cold.  :-(  There isn't much I can take that won't harm Peanut, so I'm kind of stuck and hoping this passes quickly.  I hate being up every two hours (no exaggeration .... I actually look at the clock and see what time it is) coughing or wiping my nose.  At one point in the evening, I went into the bonus room to sit up on the couch to see if that would help me breathe.  

Plus, I had to be at work a half hour early because they've started to do 'morning meetings' and are even debating, over time, changing the clinic hours to earlier.  I wouldn't mind if that means I get to leave early too, but I don't know if that will happen.  So, I was at work at 7:30am and got home around 7pm.  :-(

I missed you all day.  You were still sleeping when I left this morning.  I rubbed your back and said 'I love you' before I left.  ;-)

Daddy made pizza for dinner and then we all watched another UNC basketball game.  We won .... barely!  We were losing during the majority of the game, but then managed to tie the game at half-time.  Then, we started to play stronger during the second half and won by a basket or two.  You and I were falling asleep at the end of the game.  :-P

I have one more day of work tomorrow, and then we can play together on friday.  Daddy said that 'Harry's Guitar Shop' called and my mandolin is ready to be picked up.  Remember we went over there about 2 weeks ago for them to look at the bridge and set up?  Well, maybe we can pick it up on friday.  We'll see.  :-)

Sleep tight little precious!

I love you!

~Mommy

Nap Time Together

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little man.  This morning wasn't too much better than the day before as far as sleeping.  :-P

3am- I woke up to use restroom and then I checked on you.  You were still sleeping by yourself in your bed

3:30am-- You woke up crying and noodled into our bed  :-P

4pm - I was still awake and congested

6am - I woke up hungry and went downstairs to eat a poptart and take a cough drop (my throat was really hurting) as you and daddy slept

6:30am - Daddy was up for work

8am - I started to get ready for the day and woke you up shortly after since we had a 9:30am OB appointment with Peanut.  You didn't finish your oatmeal, but you took your formula .... I think it was because you were still waking up  :-P

Our OB appointment for Peanut went well.  We are 35 weeks and 2 days gestation .... full term is right around the corner!  I had no protein in my urine this time and my weight was 150.8 lbs .... whoa!  Getting on up there!  ;-)  My blood pressure was normal and the MD did my Group B Streptococcus (GBS) test to see if we'll need IV antibiotics during delivery.  Almost 40% of healthy women are carriers and have the bacteria in their GI tract.  If I test positive, it'll mean I'll have antibiotics when Peanut arrives.  Generally, when babies are born early, the MD will give antibiotics too.  So, I likely had it with you through my IV since we never got tested with you to even know.  

The MD started to do pelvic exams today.  Peanut is already head first.  We haven't started dilating yet, but we're having thinning of the membrane.  The MD was happy that Peanut was going into position.  I was a little nervous since I never got this far before .... so, now I have to start thinking about my water breaking at some point and then going through labor!  Yikes!  It's definitely scary to not know what to expect!  :-P  Our next appointment in in less than a week .... next monday morning.

We went to the pharmacy right after to get some nasal decongestant and cough drops .... ugh!  I hate feeling sick and my throat is scratchy.  I hope I'm not coming down with anything.  Once we came home, you played a little as I cooked pasta to prepare for the crock pot .... we're making mac and cheese for dinner.  ;-)

We ate some lunch together.  You had your yogurt (you would not eat your own mac and cheese from the other day!) and then had some juice in a sippy cup.  I did some laundry as we played upstairs.

You started to get hungry a little after, so I gave you a full bottle of 5 ounces of formula and 3 ounces of whole milk.  You fell right asleep on me and I continued to hold you.  Usually, I try to hold you for a little and then put you down on a pillow to do chores .... laundry, cook, organize, use the restroom, eat, etc .... today, I just held you and didn't let you go .... I started to read while you snored next to me and then I put the book down and took an hour nap with you!  Haven't napped with you in a while.  It was nice to enjoy the moment and hold you while Peanut kicked .... what a blessing.  I'm going to miss these times that the three of us have together like that.  You like to put your hand on my belly, whether you know Peanut's there or not.  

Also, since I was sitting on the couch with a pillow behind me and my feet up on the ottoman, I was able to breathe ok to nap.  I kind of created my own chaise with the ottoman.  :-)  I eventually had to put you down on a pillow so I could start the crock pot, use the restroom, and move the laundry over.  You woke up shortly afterward.  :-)

I folded laundry next to you and then we played.  Daddy got home a little early and we all ate dinner together.  You listened to him play the banjo as I took a shower.

This evening we all played in the bonus room.  Tomorrow I have to be at work at 7:30am so I hope you sleep better.  :-P  It may be a long day.  :-P  Penny will be here to watch you.  Save some kisses and smiles for me!  I miss you every time I leave, but Peanut continues to keep me company.  ;-)

Sleep tight little precious!

I love you so much!  :-)

~Mommy

Three Baby Steps

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little night owl.  So, you fell asleep at a reasonable time last night, though you weren't successful in staying asleep by yourself like the night before.  Here's roughly how the night went:

9:45pm last night- you fell asleep

After 10pm- daddy placed you in your own bed on a pillow (since it worked before we thought we would try it again

1:35am- I woke up to use the restroom .... you were still sleeping by yourself and I checked on you

2am- I still could not sleep because of my congestion .... got up to walk around and blow my nose

3:22am- you woke up crying and ended back up in our bed

4am- I'm still awake and end up checking my email .... insomnia is not my friend

6am- I woke up to use the restroom .... not uncommon to wake up twice in the middle of the night for this thanks to Peanut  ;-)

6:30am- alarm goes off for daddy for work

6:30am-7:30am- I'm in and out of sleep as daddy gets ready .... you are curled up next to me

8:30am- I'm waking up more

9:40am - You're finally awake all bright eyed

Needless to say .... I don't sleep very well even if you don't wake up crying .... so, if you'd learn to sleep by yourself that would be greatly appreciated!  Plus, when you curl up next to us to sleep, you tend to kick and head bump daddy and I.  :-P  So, if you see me look a little groggy while you're playing at times, that's just the lack of sleep showing .... I'm not trying to ignore you.  :-P

After I changed you, we went downstairs for breakfast .... though it was closer to 'brunch time' by then!  You ate 4 tablespoons of oatmeal and then 5 ounces of formula.  You played in the living room as I updated the fridge calendar, ran your bottles, and straightened a few things.  We now have Peanut's due date on the calendar .... I squished it in there .... so it's right around the corner!  

We went upstairs so I could fold laundry and put your clothes away.  By the time I finished, we had a little time to play .... and then it was already your physical therapy appointment time! 

Eliza and I worked with you on standing, walking, and continued your neck exercises.  You hate the neck exercises, but they need to get done.  But, here's the big news .... Eliza distracted you with some blocks while you were standing .... once she let go of you .... you continued to stand and bang the blocks together and then took three very baby steps!  We don't think you actually knew what you were doing since you were focused on the blocks, but it was so exciting!  Also, you're getting a lot better at stacking toys.  :-)

Once she left, it was around 1:30pm and you ate a whole container of yogurt.  I took you upstairs and then you drank 5 ounces of formula and 3 ounces of whole milk!  I had to quickly move them into a bottle because the sippy cup was leaking for some reason .... and then I spilled the milk.   Ugh! After the bottle, you fell asleep on me.  I held you for about 30 minutes as you snored .... then, I placed you on a pillow in the crib and you immediately woke up crying!  Ugh .... again!  So, we went back into the play room and you crawled around me with your toys.  :-P  We basically played around in there until 5pm.

Then, we went back downstairs and I followed you as you crawled all around the living room.  We were having leftovers for dinner, so we didn't need to cook anything.  You're getting better at pulling yourself up on furniture, cabinets, and shelves.  :-P  Also, you like to play with the door stoppers on the baseboards!

Oh, I almost forgot, you love to play with the television remote control!  It's so funny because you'll pick it up and point it to the television and then smile at daddy and I .... hummm, are we teaching you bad habits already?  ;-)

After daddy got home and we ate dinner, daddy gave you a nice bath.  Then, we played in the bonus room.  Daddy tried to get you to take a few steps for him, but you ended up just kind of leaning in towards him.  :-P

Tomorrow we have an OB appointment for Peanut.  Continue to pray that everything goes well!

Sleep tight little angel!

I love you!  :-)

~Mommy

Saw Both Uncles

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little precious!  For some reason, you did not go to bed until 11pm last night!  Why so late?  Once you fell asleep, we put you on a pillow on our bed.  We let you sleep for a few minutes and then moved you (still sleeping on the pillow) to your own bed in our room (a pack and play that's set up against a wall).  You stayed sleeping there .... by yourself .... until almost 6:45am!  Then, you started crying!  That was the longest you've slept outside our bed in about 2.5 months!  We'll eventually transition you into the crib if this works.  I woke up about every 2.5 hours and checked on you while you were sleeping. 

Once we picked you up at 6:45am and moved you, you continued to sleep for another 1.5-2 hours.  We then all ate breakfast together and then spent the morning cleaning.  Daddy cleaned the study and living room downstairs.  He hung pictures and vacuumed both rooms.  I cleaned and organized the bonus room while you played next to me.  I went through all the stuffed animals that use to be at Gigi's house .... ones that Uncle James and I played with when we were young .... I kept a toy chest full for you and Peanut and also created 3 bags to donate to other children.  I vacuumed the play room and moved Peanut's new swing to the side and created a little area for her for toy and tummy time.  You'll have to show her how tummy time is done now that you're big and strong!  ;-)

Gigi and Uncle James came over for lunch.  We showed them the work we've done on the house and then we all went to a burger place down the road.  You've been there a few times before, Andy's Burgers.  :-)

Afterward, daddy and I continued to clean until mid-afternoon .... by then, we were both tired and needed a break!  Plus, you started to take a nap around 4pm.  Daddy read and I relaxed on the couch and rested my eyes while holding you.  ;-)

Daddy and I felt bad because we actually had to wake you to get you ready .... we were suppose to be at Mimi's house for dinner at 6pm, and you were still snoring on me at 5:30pm.  :-P  So, we gently picked you up and you slowly woke up as we changed you.

Mimi had homemade baked spaghetti, salad, bread, and dessert all there for us!  Grandpa Mike and Uncle Brennan were there too and played with you.  

We got home around 8:30pm, so we changed you, brushed your teeth, and got you ready for bed.  You were still a little active, so we played with you in the bonus room until you fell asleep next to daddy.  I wonder how well you'll sleep tonight.  ;-)

Tomorrow Eliza is coming over for your physical therapy.  So, you'd better get some rest before then!  

Sleep tight little one!

I love you!

~Mommy

Putting Your Room Together

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little precious!  We had a late start to the day .... we managed to sleep in a little .... though that was after you noodled into our bed.  :-P  Once we were up and moving, you had some breakfast and then played downstairs as daddy and I cleaned.  I also did some extra cooking and prepared the crock pot for another lasagna .... we needed to cook some of the food in the fridge or it would have gone bad, so I browned up some ground beef and veggies .... added some sauce .... and then layered it in the crock pot with the lasagna noodles and cheese.  Now, we have dinner already made .... well, it'll be done in a couple of hours at least.  :-P

The rest of the morning was spent putting your room together .... we moved things out of the back bedroom so we could place the new rug down. Then, we positioned the crib, changing table, and dresser.  Daddy hung pictures on the wall .... it looks good!  Now, we have to get you to sleep in there!  :-P

Since we had a later breakfast, daddy and I weren't too hungry for lunch, so we went to the grocery store but stopped in a Starbucks to give you a bottle and yogurt.  Daddy got a coffee.  We also met up with our townhouse renter agent .... two new renters are moving into our old townhouse so we needed to sign a new contract.  I hope we can just sell it in another year or two.  

This afternoon we were all tired from the cleaning and rearranging from this morning.  So, we relaxed and took it easy.  We played with you in the bonus room and had our lasagna for dinner.  You tried some mac and cheese for dinner, but it didn't go so well.  :-P  We'll keep trying!  You actually didn't eat a lot during the day, but you weren't fussy for food either.  We washed all the new sippy cups and gave you formula in them and not the bottles .... I don't think you noticed a difference since these sippy cups have the soft tops like the soft nipples on the bottles.  We'll keep using these then until you get use to the harder tops.  

I'm continuing to have pain in my back, so every time daddy picks you up to help out it's greatly appreciated.  And, I'm getting a little more congested these days.  :-P  Tomorrow we'll be 35 weeks gestation with Peanut, so really, anything could happen at this time.  She would still be 'early' at this point (anything less than 37 weeks is early), but she's getting close to full term.  :-)

Sleep tight little miracle!

I love you!

~Mommy

Sixty Six Weeks

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little precious!  Today you are sixty six weeks old .... you're really getting on up there little man!  ;-)

This morning, after we ate breakfast, you and I headed over to the state fairgrounds for the Kid Exchange.  This is one of the biggest consignment sales for used children items in the area.  They hold it two or three times a year and this is our first time checking it out.  It started at 9am, and we got there around 10am.  I walked around with you on my back in your carrier.  I was looking for some things in particular, like a double stroller, infant cradle swing for Peanut, sippy cups with rubber tops (you don't appear to like the hard tops), some extra shoes for you, and possibly a glider with ottoman.  

Well, I got a swing as soon as we walked in.  Then, we walked around to the strollers.  They didn't have a lot to choose from, and the ones that were there appeared too pricey .... so, we headed over to the second building and found sippy cups and shoes for you.  There were so many people .... and so much clothes and so many toys there!  It was unbelievable!  You really needed hours to spend there, but it was just the two of us, so we didn't have a lot of time.  The next sale date is in July, so maybe we'll be more organized and can spend more time there looking for clothes for you and Peanut  then .... or to donate some of our stuff and make a few dollars ourselves! 

Anyway, we got a few things off our list, so I still consider it a success.  I can still find used double strollers online, so I'm not worried about it.  

After we picked up the swing and loaded it into our car, we headed over to the bank to make a deposit.  We also had to pick up a certified check for daddy .... he found a deal on a used Deering banjo and we needed to pick up a check to mail to the seller.  Daddy said this banjo is apparently loud, so we'll have to see how you and Peanut react to it.  :-P  When you first heard the banjo, you cried.  Of course, you've never cried with the mandolin.  ;-)

We were both hungry after the bank, so we called Grandpa Jim to see if we could stop in his office for a restroom break .... I didn't have a stroller with me since I needed all the room I could get in my car for the Kid Exchange, and I thought I would be buying a stroller there .... so I didn't have anything to put you in if I needed to use the restroom!  Oops!  Turns out, Grandpa Jim wasn't there .... he was picking up our rugs from the carpet place!  So, I stopped in a little BBQ place near Target where I knew they had changing tables in the stalls.  I changed your diaper, and then strapped you in there, kept one hand on you, and then used the bathroom!  I'm sure I won't get 'mother of the year' for that, but we were desperate and by ourselves.  :-P  Then, I walked around with you to eat there and every table and chair was being used!  Ugh!  I was so hungry, and so were you!  So, again, I had another stellar mommy moment and fed you a bottle in the car in the parking lot of a BBQ place .... at least you were able to eat and it was warm in there!

By this time it was around 1pm, so we ran through Target in no time .... I strapped you in the cart since I, again, had no stroller, and my back was getting tired from this morning .... we picked up your diapers (we were getting dangerously low), some milk and cereal (we had nothing for tomorrow), and then I picked up some bagel bites for me for lunch .... we were back home by 1:35pm and I gobbled up the bagels! 

Once I ate, I cleaned up a little and then we headed upstairs to rest.  We played in the bonus room and then you started to take a little nap next to me.  You were still napping when daddy called to let us know he was leaving the office a few minutes early.  Once daddy got home, you had some dinner and Uncle Brennan and Aunt Katie came over to see you.  We all went around the corner to a little Mexican place for dinner, and then we headed back home.  Uncle Brennan helped bring the rugs upstairs before we left, so after dinner daddy and I set up the front bedroom with the rug.  It looks good!  We'll do the back bedroom tomorrow. 

We continued to play in the bonus room this evening until you fell asleep.  Tomorrow, we'll go grocery shopping and probably do more things around the house to get things done before Peanut gets here.

Sleep tight little man!

I love you!

~Mommy

Up Early And Up Late

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little precious!  Today I was up early and up late .... so I was tired by the end of the day.  :-P  The good news is you weren't the one who kept me up .... the pregnancy, however, did.  

I woke up at 4:47am with another calf cramp!  I had them when pregnant with you, so I was scared I would get them again.  It was pretty bad, but I didn't wake you or daddy up this time.  Last time, daddy ended up waking up because he heard me crying.  This time, you two kept sleeping.  It had been a while since my last leg cramp.  :-P  I was awake for a while after that and couldn't go back to sleep.  I ended up curling up next to you .... you noodled yourself into our bed last night .... again .... you were on your back so I moved your head to the left and held it there for a while as I listened to you snore.  You didn't wake up so I kissed you.  :-)

You had fun with Penny today and you didn't throw up!  You had oatmeal, yogurt, spaghetti, and your bottles today.  

At 4pm, Mimi came over to relieve Penny.  Daddy had a late soccer meeting tonight, so we needed someone to come and watch you before I could get home.  I got home around 7pm and we all visited until around 7:30pm when Mimi had to leave.  She brought over some clothes for you and Peanut!  The outfits are so cute!  :-)

So, I decided to have a few pictures taken while pregnant with Peanut .... I don't really have many photos while pregnant with you .... and I know if I didn't have any pictures taken I would regret it later.  So, now you get to see me all overweight.  ;-)  The belly is your little sister .... Peanut.  :-)

I took the picture myself in front of a mirror.  :-)  I also had daddy take a picture of me while holding you .... that way, you, me, and Peanut now have a picture together.  ;-)

This evening we played up stairs until daddy got home.  He got home around 9:30pm and then we got you ready for bed. 

Tomorrow we have lots of errands to run, so I hope we all get some sleep.  We're going to the Kid Exchange in the morning, then the bank, and then to Target. 

Sleep tight little man!

I love you!  :-)

~Mommy

Baby Shower

Dearest Joshua David~

Well, we both had an interesting day today.  You did something that you normally don't do.  We're trying to increase your solid food.  So, we had some extra food out for Penny to use.  You had your oatmeal breakfast, then some apple and cinnamon mixture, a few bites of a scrambled egg, a few cheerios, half a cookie, some yogurt, juice, and your three bottles .... but at one point in the morning, you threw up!  Ew!  You continued playing right after and didn't act sick or have a fever.  But, for some reason, you just didn't like something that you ate and then threw up.  :-P  

You had fun with Penny too, despite the throw up incident.  You two had floor time, music time, and continued to practice your walking and standing.  You also took a morning and evening nap for Penny.

I got home late, which I always hate doing.  Daddy had dinner made .... steak and leftover stuffing.  It was good!  :-)

My interesting thing today involves Peanut .... we had a staff meeting and 'Lunch and Learn' scheduled today .... I knew about them since they were on the schedule last week.  So, before lunch, I was in my office writing notes, and then two of my co-workers came in to let me know that we should head downstairs for the meeting.  I grabbed my lunch and a pen for the meeting and followed them downstairs to the break room.  Once we entered, I saw a room decorated with ribbons, balloons, gifts, and lots of food .... it was a surprise baby shower!!  I was so shocked!  We got clothes, toys, and diapers for little Peanut!  And, of course, people were asking about you and if you knew you were about to have a little sister!  I don't think you understand what's going on .... even when you fall asleep on me and Peanut kicks you!  ;-)  It will be interesting to see how you all react to each other the first few days.  :-)

Anyway, this evening, we played upstairs in the bonus room.  My back has been hurting a little more these days .... I can't figure out if it's a pinched nerve, just from pregnancy, or a little of both.  :-P  So, I tried to lay down a little while daddy sat with you to play. 

Tomorrow's another day of work and hopefully I won't get home late again.  I love spending time with you and Peanut!  I hope your tummy does better tomorrow.  

Sleep tight little man!

I love you!

~Mommy

Saw Dr. Rush

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little miracle.  Today we had a busy day.  

First, we had an OB appointment for little Peanut.  We are 34 weeks and two days!  Woo hoo!  Each day is a blessing!  My weight was 150.8 lbs (a pregnancy weight gain of 21 lbs thus far which is on track for a healthy weight gain of 25 lbs total).  My blood pressure was 110/70.  The uterus height is 34 cm, which matches the weeks pregnant we are (which is good .... means Peanut is growing nicely).  My iron level was awesome .... 13.2! 

There was a trace amount of protein in my urine, but since my blood pressure has remained constant the MD wasn't concerned.  I have a trace amount of swelling as well, which I knew since my rings have gotten tight, but again, it's very minor swelling and of no immediate concern right now.  However, because of my history, Dr. Rush has changed me to weekly appointments and not 2 weeks.  So, our next appointment is a week from today at 9:30am and I'll probably continue to have them every tuesday for now on.  Also, Peanut continues to pass her 'kick test' everyday.  :-)

On a side note, Dr. Rush was the one who we saw at 30 weeks when I was pregnant with you and caught our pre-eclampsia and sent us to the hospital .... she was happy to see you and I thanked her for saving your life and catching the pre-eclampsia and HELLP syndrome in time.  She had a student following her around this morning, so we got to share our story with her as well.  :-) 

Once our appointment was over, we headed over to our MOPS small group play date.  Our small group leader was hosting it and she doesn't live that far from us.  There were so many kids there once we all arrived .... I'm guessing there were around 15.  Most of the kids were between 2 and 4 years old age, so you were one of the youngest.  Also, there were mostly girls there, but you appeared to have fun crawling all around!  We were there for almost two hours and then made it back home for lunch.  :-)

We got a call that our rugs were finished from Bell's Carpets.  Remember how we went back there about 2 weeks ago for a remnant piece of carpet for the two smaller bedrooms?  Well, Grandpa Jim said he could help pick them up in his truck later in the week.  So, by this weekend we should be able to put these rooms back together a little better.  :-)

You took a nap after lunch.  I did four loads of laundry as you slept and even after you woke up.   Then, I made dinner (a quick pizza) and then fed you.  You had four tablespoons of oatmeal and a container of yogurt before taking your bottle.  After dinner, I gave you a bath and then we all got in our pajamas for the UNC game.

We played better tonight and won.  :-)  We won't have another game for about a week, so I hope you don't go through basketball withdrawal.  ;-)

Tomorrow I head back to work, but Penny will be there to play and take care of you.  Save a smile and kiss for me .... I hate being apart from you, though I have Peanut close to me to keep me company.  ;-)

Sleep tight!

I love you very much!  :-)

~Mommy

Bat Boy

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little man!  Boy did you give us a run for our money this morning.  :-P

So, I put you in your crib last night after you fell asleep, and you continued to sleep as we went to bed.  I woke up at 2:47am to use the restroom (which isn't an uncommon time for me to be awake these days with Peanut pushing around everywhere).  I checked on you and you were snoring away in your crib all cute.  You've been waking up around 2am, so I thought we were in the clear tonight!  However, right around 3am, you woke up and started crying.  Daddy and I let you cry for a while to see if you would 'self soothe' yourself, but that didn't work.  Finally, I picked you up at 4:22am!  You calmed down when you were in my arms and I wiped away your little tears.  I walked around with you, but you didn't fall back asleep.  When I got back in bed I had you curl up to me, and you eventually started to sleep around 4:45am.  Of course, daddy's work alarm went off at 6:30am .... needless to say we were exhausted the rest of the day.  I stayed in bed until a little after 7am, then I started to get things together for the day.  I had to wake you up at 8am so I could change you, feed you, and pack you up for your pediatrician appointment this morning at 9:30am!

Overall your appointment went well.  You had three shots .... two in your right leg and one in your left leg.  In my rush and lack of sleep state this morning I had forgotten to bring your immunization card with me!  But, your doctor's office keeps a record of everything and we can update it at your next appointment.  :-P

Your doctor said you were a little underweight .... which is what the neonatologist was saying last month.  I swear we feed you!  Your weight was 19 lbs 7 ozs and your length is 30 inches.  Our goal is to increase your solid foods and to get you onto the sippy cup more vs the bottle.  She even suggested that increasing your solid foods may help you sleep better.  Of course, she also stated that some children get 'night terrors' that wake them up.  I'm hoping that's not what's happening with you.  :-(  We'll see if the increased food will help.  

She asked me when I was due, and I told her the end of February.  Your next appointment will be your 18 month check up in April, so we'll technically see her again before then for Peanut's newborn appointments!  These next few months are going to be busy busy with your upcoming surgery, Peanut's arrival, all the pediatrician appointments, your physical therapy appointments, your eye exam, my follow up appointments after having Peanut .... whew!  We're going to need a vacation after all this!  Maybe by summer time things will slow down a little.  :-P

After your appointment, we made a quick trip to the bank to make a deposit.  The banks are closed today for Martin Luther King Day, but we could use the outside ATM with no problem.  Then, we headed to Gigi's house.

Gigi had off from work, and Uncle James was there too.  Your Grandpa Jim popped in for a few minutes during lunch time and got to play with you.  Gigi now calls you a vampire .... since you bite and are always awake at night!  Your Uncle James calls you 'Bat Boy' for the same reasons.  :-P  You're getting a reputation, so you'd better start sleeping through the night soon!  

You had a container of sweet potatoes and then a bottle there.  We'll need to get more sippy cups for you so we can make the transition.  You only like sippy cups with a soft nipple top and not the hard ones, so I'll look for those the next time we're out.  

I was tired, so I made some tea as you played with Gigi.  Uncle James tried to think of names for little Peanut .... and before I knew it .... you and Gigi were taking a nap on the recliner!  How come you always get to take the nap and not me?  :-P

Once you woke up, I packed you up and we headed back home to make dinner.  Daddy actually got home a little earlier than usual, so we timed it just right.  We made chicken with stuffing, and while that was staying warm, I gave you dinner.  You ate a container of yogurt, some cheerios, and then a bottle.  Daddy walked in the door as you were eating.  :-)

We all played upstairs this evening.  You got to watch us play the Wii.  Daddy and I both won a game of bowling, and then daddy played some basketball.  After a while, I rocked you, and you fell asleep.  Daddy and I read as you continued to sleep in your crib.  I hope you sleep better tonight.  :-P

Tomorrow, we have an OB visit for Peanut in the morning, and then a MOPS play date right after.  This will be our first play date, so I hope you get a long with all the other children.  ;-)

Sleep tight!

I love you very much!  :-)

~Mommy

Norman Rockwell

Dearest Joshua David~

Hey little man!  Today we are 34 weeks gestation with Peanut .... each day she has passed her kick test and our next appointment is this coming tuesday.  I'm hopeful everything will be fine.  :-)

Well, just as I mentioned yesterday, today we went to the North Carolina Museum of Art to see the Norman Rockwell art exhibit.  We met Mimi, Grandpa Mike, Aunt Katie, and Uncle Brennan there.  There were signs that strollers were not allowed, so we carried you everywhere in the exhibit.  Meanwhile, we saw at least five strollers in there!  Ugh!  How frustrating!  I had the carrier in the car, but I was trying to resist that since I would be on my feet for so long .... it would have been hard to carry two kids for that long.  ;-)

The exhibit was really crowded and we were even in the first group to go in.  But, we all managed to see everything.  I like Norman Rockwell paintings .... I have my Nana's big, hardback book of Norman Rockwell paintings in our study.  :-) 

We stayed at the museum for lunch and you ate a container of yogurt with your bottle.  When we left, you fell asleep in the car while we drove home.  You continued to nap as daddy and I cleaned the kitchen and the downstairs.  

Once you woke up, we played upstairs.  Daddy and I put the television on as you played and we all relaxed.  For dinner, daddy and I had leftovers as you had pears and a bottle.  After dinner, I gave you a bath and then daddy played the banjo for you as I took a shower.  

After we were all settled, we watched the UNC basketball game.  We lost and it was so pitiful!  Despite it being painful to watch, we saw it all and now we're praying we play better on tuesday!  :-P

After the game, I held you and you eventually fell asleep on me.  I put you in your crib and you stayed sleeping!  Hopefully you'll sleep through the night!  

Tomorrow you have your 15 month check up at the pediatrician.  Then, we may swing by Gigi's house since she has off for Martin Luther King Day.  

Sleep tight little man!

I love you!  :-)

~Mommy

Good Dinner

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little miracle!  Boy did you sleep in .... of course, you didn't go to bed until about 11pm last night!  

Let's see .... I came downstairs and ate breakfast, prepared your breakfast, set up the crock pot for dinner, unloaded the dish washer, reloaded the dish washer, washed pots and pans that couldn't go into the dish washer, cleaned your play area .... came back upstairs .... you were still snoring.  :-P  So, I traded with daddy so he could eat breakfast and I watched you as you slept .... I had to watch you because you were on our bed again and we didn't want you rolling off.  :-P  We've noticed that you've started to roll onto your back at times, so we might have you start sleeping in your helmet so that your flat spot doesn't regress.  

Anyway, once you woke up and had breakfast, daddy and I got ourselves ready and then we headed out for the day.  We went to Harry's Guitar Shop .... you've been there before but I'm sure you don't remember.  When daddy was a teenager, he took guitar lessons there and Uncle Brennan took bass lessons.  When I wanted to start on the mandolin, daddy recommended it so that's where I took lessons for a while too .... and today you got to meet my teacher, Steve!  He's never seen you, but was impressed at how big you were and was happy to see Peanut doing well.

So, we went there to drop off the electric mandolin for them to look at.  The nut is a little off, so the repair guy, Terry, is going to take it out and make a new one to adjust the intonation.  I told daddy that it was fine for our purposes, but he insisted that we take it because he wants it to be right .... what a good daddy you have.  :-)  Oh wait, maybe he just wanted to look at all the new guitars there?  Come to think of it, he kept playing a banjo while there .... hummm.    ;-)

When we left, it was around lunch time so we took you back to Cooper's BBQ!  You had crackers, cheerios, and a bottle .... then promptly fell asleep on my shoulder.  :-P  We took a quick trip to look at curtain rods too, but didn't get anything because we forgot the size rings that we had.  Oh well!

This afternoon we played around in the bonus room.  You're getting braver with the cat and keep trying to mess with him when he's near you.  :-)  Daddy played the banjo for you because he's working through a DVD now.  I tuned an acoustic mandolin that I have and practiced with the scales very briefly before taking a shower.  You mostly heard the banjo though.  

Dinner turned out pretty good!  It was a lasagna that I made/prepared yesterday and then cooked in the crock pot today.  I tried to give you some chicken and veggies, but you only took a few bites.  :-P

This evening we all just relaxed.  Daddy and I looked at the new baby gates for the stairs, but we're going to have to drill into our banisters no matter what we do.  :-(  So, we're getting Grandpa Mike to help us out to figure out what our best options are.  We need to go ahead and get these up soon though!  :-P

Tomorrow we'll be 34 weeks gestation with Peanut!  At '34 weeks' you were already a month old, so I guess you think Peanut is late!  ;-)

Get some sleep tonight .... tomorrow we head to the Art Museum to see the Norman Rockwell exhibit!  

Sleep tight!

I love you!  :-)

~Mommy

Sixty Five Weeks

Dearest Joshua David~

Hello little man!  You are now sixty five weeks old!  Does it seem that long to you since you were born?  ;-)

Well, you and I slept in a little this morning, which was much needed from the past few nights.  I woke up when daddy's work alarm went off, but then went back to sleep for a little once daddy left.  You continued sleeping even after I had gotten up.  

We had some things to do today, so once you ate breakfast we got ourselves together.  You had your usual breakfast, though you didn't have any milk in your bottle since you ran out.  So, once we were dressed, we went to Target for some groceries and things for the house.  We needed some curtain rods for some draperies downstairs .... daddy has been hanging draperies for us since I'm not allowed on ladders .... plus, he's so much quicker than I am and knows where to measure!  Oh, they had some Christmas/Winter pajamas on clearance .... you're growing out of some of your pajamas now, so I went ahead and got some 18 month sets since they were so inexpensive.  Next week, there's a 'Kid Exchange' in downtown Raleigh that I want to go to .... they have it twice a year and there's always lots of used clothes and items there.  I want to find some clothes for you and Peanut, possibly a swing for Peanut, and a double stroller.  It'll depend on the condition and the price, but I hopeful I'll be able to find these things .... and you never know .... we may find some other things there too!   ;-) 

Oh, usually when we go out, I have you in the carrier on my back, or I push you in the stroller.  Since it was just you and me, and we needed some bigger and heavier things, you got to sit in the front of the cart for the first time.  :-)  I put a little covering over the metal since you like to bite things and I'm sure it wasn't clean .... but you did well and even got a sticker from the check out guy because you were buckled it so well!  :-)  I took a picture and sent it to daddy while he was at work.

You fell asleep in the car as I was driving home from Target.  So, once we got home, I placed you down to continue napping, put all the food away, and then made a quick lunch.  Once you woke up, you finished a container of yogurt and almost finished your container of spaghetti from yesterday before taking your bottle. 

Then, we went upstairs and played for a while.  I put the UNC game on from yesterday, though you kept looking at me like, "Hey, didn't we just see this?"  :-)  

Peanut keeps passing her 'kick test' each day.  Some times, when I'm holding you and you fall asleep on me (or next to me) she'll start to kick.  Then, I'll whisper in your ear, "Your sister is kicking you!" but you don't seem to mind .... yet!  I hope you two get along, though I know there will be the typical 'sibling rivalry' that always occurs.  

You took a little nap on me, though you woke up when I put you down to start dinner.  We made a simple dinner of bacon and eggs, but also prepared the crock pot for tomorrow's dinner .... a lasagna!  Yummm!  We even got some special bread at the store today for dinner tomorrow.  I went ahead and cooked all the meat, cut the veggies, and layered everything together with the cheese in the pot.  That way, in the morning, we can just plug it in!  

Daddy had to work late tonight.  He didn't get home until almost 6:30pm.  You finished your spaghetti and ate some chicken and veggies for dinner.  

Oh, guess what came in the mail today .... we ordered a case to put the new mandolin in since one company was having a sale .... it came today plus a banjo DVD that we got for daddy.  :-)  The case is nice and the mandolin fits well inside.  We're going to take it to a guitar shop that we like to show to one of the guys there tomorrow.  We're going to see if he can adjust the nut more for us so the intonation is closer, though daddy did a really good job as is.  I think he should make more instruments!  :-)

We got to play in the bonus room with daddy this evening.  At one point, I was feeling a little sick, but then figured out that it was Peanut rolling around in there and pushing against some organs!  Sometimes, I think she's pushing up against my diaphragm and pushing my lungs making it hard to breathe.  :-P  But, I would rather have that and her being healthy, than an early delivery with complications.  We are so blessed to have the two of you!  God is so good!  :-)

Sleep tight little miracle!

I love you so much!  :-)

~Mommy