How far along? 20 Weeks – I can’t believe I am halfway through!
Total Weight Gain/Loss? Stayed the same this week; however, this is the first week my belly has become quite noticeable. It’s pretty sweet.
Maternity Clothes? I’m making it through the end of the year without! Two weeks of button and zipper marks on my flesh is well worth not having to spend lots of moolah on maternity pants! Now that I know what the baby is, I’d rather spend money on them!
Stretch Marks? Nope
Sleep? “I have never taken any exercise except sleeping and resting.” -Mark Twain
Best Moment This Week? Seeing a picture of our little tot. One of the neatest moments of my life. To see a living, breathing little soul moving and grooving inside my very body was INCREDIBLE!
Food Cravings? Nothing crazy this week; however, I have been drinking approximately 3-4 juice boxes a day. I’m officially making up for the envy I had towards Brooke’s juice boxes every day at school!
Gender? Wouldn’t you like to know?!?!
What I Miss? Being tan before summer starts. I have some catching up to do and still need to figure out this swimsuit situation…
What I Look Forward To? Holding little Jorgensen in my arms. I. simply. cannot. wait.
Milestones? Seeing pictures of our little one!!! Although it looks like a teenage mutant ninja turtle, I still think it’s adorable. I kiss its picture every morning before heading to work!
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
The Best Day...
Everyone has made, or at least talked about, their top fives. Top five destinations to travel to, top five restaurants to eat at, top five most attractive people in the world, and top five goals to achieve at the start of a new year. We like to rank, to categorize, to measure our lives up against our own expectations for living.
Today, I added to a few of my own top five lists. Top five best days of my life. Top five most emotionally charged days of my life. Top five days I won't ever forget.
Today was my 20 week appointment. My ultrasound. Today, Beau and I found out the sex of our baby. We saw pictures, listened to its little heartbeat, and watched it yawn, kick its feet, and rest its little hands under its little chin. It was one of the most surreal moments of both of our lives. Although my mind has raced today more than I think it ever has before, time seemed to slow down to a peaceful halt. I knew I needed to sit down at my computer before the day was through; to sit and try to put into words the feelings of this day. So, as Beau watches TV and Jade sleeps soundly in her fur kitty bed, I write. I heard once that tears improve vision; I'm hoping my words become clearer too.
I don't think I was really expecting the absolute whirlwind of emotions this day would bring. I think it has a lot to do with the fact that none of it is in our control. Sure, my wedding day was a whirlwind of emotions, yet, it was planned so meticulously, so carefully, that I felt pretty much, in control. This is different. This takes an unbelievable amount of faith and trust in something much bigger than what is humanly possible. And when I look back on today, it is impossible not to see God's hand at work in every piece of it.
My appointment was at 10, so last night, Beau and I both looked forward to sleeping in a bit. That, however, ended up being a pipe dream. We were both up early, attempting to act cool, yet unmasking much of our mutual excitement and anxiety.
As I look back at it now, I realize there was so much of this day that I hadn't even thought about. For example, what the ultrasound room would be like. To some, it may be a sterile hospital room, complete with cords, computers, and plastic sheeting. To me, it was perfect. The lights were dimmed, the atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and a little screen that would show us our baby sat patiently in front of us like a movie theatre screen before a movie starts. Beau sat close to me and immediately rested his hand on my arm. Within seconds, we were watching live footage of our little one. It was as if 'it' was expecting us, saying, "Here I am Mom! Here I am Dad!" We saw a perfectly round head, two little feet crossed at the ankles, two little hands resting on a sweet little chin. We listened to its heartbeat and watched it pump simultaneously in complete disbelief. At this moment, I think it all became real. I immediately wanted to hold it. To feed it. To bundle it up in a blanket and snuggle with it; however, the nurse reminded us that Baby J was only about six inches long and 12 ounces. Beau decided I needed to go on an all-meat diet to 'beef' up our little one. Its arms were bony, its ribs were showing, and it looked a little skeletore-ish!
After our ultrasound, we were asked to wait in the waiting room until Dr. Hines was ready to see us. We grabbed our CD of pictures, our DVD of footage, and our endless strip of snapshots and headed to the waiting room to study our baby. There was no doubt that we were first time parents, looking at pictures of our baby for the first time. There we sat, at times, laughing hysterically, blinking through tear filled eyes, attempting to swallow the lump in our throats. I definitely thought the baby reflected Beau's personality...it wouldn't sit still at first; however, seemed to quickly grow 'bored' with us by flashing us a big yawn. Beau decided the frontal picture of the face resembled that of a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle. Its nose looks small, and its fingers look long.
Dr. Hines is awesome and exactly the kind of doctor I need. I teach both of her boys at NU, so knowing her in that light added such a personal touch to our appointment. We felt comfortable asking lots of questions, and she was extremely down-to-earth with her answers. Although I don't know who exactly will deliver Baby J, I feel confident and assured that we will be well taken care of at Covenant.
Afterwards, I was dying for a cheeseburger, so Beau and I had lunch at the Screaming Eagle. Man were our minds racing. At times we would talk at the same time, other times, it was obvious we were both deep in our thoughts, unable to put the puzzle of emotions running through our minds into complete sentences. Up until this day, life consisted of us. Now, even though we still have five more months of 'us,' we don't feel alone. I think seeing our baby today changed everything. I think knowing that we are having a son, or daughter changed everything. In October, we will welcome a beautiful little person into our lives.... and now we are in the pre-game mental warm up.
We shopped. We registered at Target, test drove strollers down the aisle, played with baby toys, and smelled precious little baby clothes. Beau went back to work and I played some more. Mostly, though, I thought. I thought about my life in five months, bringing home a newborn for the first time. I thought about my life next summer, watching a seven-month old baby sink their toes into grass for the first time. I thought about next Christmas, first birthdays, and a first day of kindergarten. I thought about car seats, jogger strollers, and baby names. I thought about closet space, baby bedding, and lullabies. I thought about life, about love, and about miracles.
Today I am thankful for my miracle. My six-inch little miracle.
Stay tuned for this weekend! Baby J's gender will be revealed to all!!!
Today, I added to a few of my own top five lists. Top five best days of my life. Top five most emotionally charged days of my life. Top five days I won't ever forget.
Today was my 20 week appointment. My ultrasound. Today, Beau and I found out the sex of our baby. We saw pictures, listened to its little heartbeat, and watched it yawn, kick its feet, and rest its little hands under its little chin. It was one of the most surreal moments of both of our lives. Although my mind has raced today more than I think it ever has before, time seemed to slow down to a peaceful halt. I knew I needed to sit down at my computer before the day was through; to sit and try to put into words the feelings of this day. So, as Beau watches TV and Jade sleeps soundly in her fur kitty bed, I write. I heard once that tears improve vision; I'm hoping my words become clearer too.
I don't think I was really expecting the absolute whirlwind of emotions this day would bring. I think it has a lot to do with the fact that none of it is in our control. Sure, my wedding day was a whirlwind of emotions, yet, it was planned so meticulously, so carefully, that I felt pretty much, in control. This is different. This takes an unbelievable amount of faith and trust in something much bigger than what is humanly possible. And when I look back on today, it is impossible not to see God's hand at work in every piece of it.
My appointment was at 10, so last night, Beau and I both looked forward to sleeping in a bit. That, however, ended up being a pipe dream. We were both up early, attempting to act cool, yet unmasking much of our mutual excitement and anxiety.
As I look back at it now, I realize there was so much of this day that I hadn't even thought about. For example, what the ultrasound room would be like. To some, it may be a sterile hospital room, complete with cords, computers, and plastic sheeting. To me, it was perfect. The lights were dimmed, the atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and a little screen that would show us our baby sat patiently in front of us like a movie theatre screen before a movie starts. Beau sat close to me and immediately rested his hand on my arm. Within seconds, we were watching live footage of our little one. It was as if 'it' was expecting us, saying, "Here I am Mom! Here I am Dad!" We saw a perfectly round head, two little feet crossed at the ankles, two little hands resting on a sweet little chin. We listened to its heartbeat and watched it pump simultaneously in complete disbelief. At this moment, I think it all became real. I immediately wanted to hold it. To feed it. To bundle it up in a blanket and snuggle with it; however, the nurse reminded us that Baby J was only about six inches long and 12 ounces. Beau decided I needed to go on an all-meat diet to 'beef' up our little one. Its arms were bony, its ribs were showing, and it looked a little skeletore-ish!
After our ultrasound, we were asked to wait in the waiting room until Dr. Hines was ready to see us. We grabbed our CD of pictures, our DVD of footage, and our endless strip of snapshots and headed to the waiting room to study our baby. There was no doubt that we were first time parents, looking at pictures of our baby for the first time. There we sat, at times, laughing hysterically, blinking through tear filled eyes, attempting to swallow the lump in our throats. I definitely thought the baby reflected Beau's personality...it wouldn't sit still at first; however, seemed to quickly grow 'bored' with us by flashing us a big yawn. Beau decided the frontal picture of the face resembled that of a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle. Its nose looks small, and its fingers look long.
Dr. Hines is awesome and exactly the kind of doctor I need. I teach both of her boys at NU, so knowing her in that light added such a personal touch to our appointment. We felt comfortable asking lots of questions, and she was extremely down-to-earth with her answers. Although I don't know who exactly will deliver Baby J, I feel confident and assured that we will be well taken care of at Covenant.
Afterwards, I was dying for a cheeseburger, so Beau and I had lunch at the Screaming Eagle. Man were our minds racing. At times we would talk at the same time, other times, it was obvious we were both deep in our thoughts, unable to put the puzzle of emotions running through our minds into complete sentences. Up until this day, life consisted of us. Now, even though we still have five more months of 'us,' we don't feel alone. I think seeing our baby today changed everything. I think knowing that we are having a son, or daughter changed everything. In October, we will welcome a beautiful little person into our lives.... and now we are in the pre-game mental warm up.
We shopped. We registered at Target, test drove strollers down the aisle, played with baby toys, and smelled precious little baby clothes. Beau went back to work and I played some more. Mostly, though, I thought. I thought about my life in five months, bringing home a newborn for the first time. I thought about my life next summer, watching a seven-month old baby sink their toes into grass for the first time. I thought about next Christmas, first birthdays, and a first day of kindergarten. I thought about car seats, jogger strollers, and baby names. I thought about closet space, baby bedding, and lullabies. I thought about life, about love, and about miracles.
Today I am thankful for my miracle. My six-inch little miracle.
Stay tuned for this weekend! Baby J's gender will be revealed to all!!!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Monday, May 10, 2010
Pretties
Beau delivered flowers to my classroom on Friday. For Mother's Day. Jim, my principal, brought the box (yes, the box) to the classroom and distractingly set it on the back table. I usually don't get embarrassed; however, Friday, my cheeks were a little hot. Although I persisted that I open and assemble (yes, assemble) them after class, my students proceeded to do a slow clap until I gave in. Then, as I silently read the 'Happy 1st Mother's Day' card and opened up the multi-colored swarm of roses, my students ooed, awed, and continued to throw out baby name suggestions (it's a daily endeavor). The unexpected excitement of my 15 and 16 year olds is quite fun. Thanks, Beau, for making my 'first' Mother's Day a pretty special one!
Sunday, May 9, 2010
My (soon-to-be) Mother's Day
Today, thanks to you, Baby J, I got a little spoiled. Although I don't have a baby to squeeze tight and kiss on the cheek a million times today, I have the anticipation of what is soon to be. And, yes, Mother's Day did feel a little different today. As I stare at this blank screen, I'm having some trouble putting into words what those feelings are exactly...
A little pride, perhaps, that I, too, can be part of a day that is about celebrating the universal love that is motherhood.
Excitement, for sure, as I look ahead to a year from now, with another school year almost complete, a bed of new flowers freshly planted, and a chubby seven-month old crocheted onto my hip.
And, a little anxiety, as I am two days away from seeing a black and white picture of the makings of a baby being formed inside of me. A boy, or a girl, being formed inside of me. Whew. No wonder my head is in the clouds a bit today and no wonder I found myself lying wide awake in bed for three hours last night. I'm starting to think the emotions had more to do with the insomnia than the single can of Mountain Dew I drank hours before calling it a night!
As I sat at Applebee's today, watching a first-time mommy, a first-time grandma, and a first-time great-grandma swoon over sweet little Charly, I realized how special this Mother's Day is. Definitely a new chapter for our family. A new chapter I'm pretty excited to read.
Finally...my mom. It's always difficult to write about my relationship with my mom because it's easy to sound cliche to the outside world. It's true, she's my best friend, the person I can't wait to talk to everyday and better yet, see for shopping trips, unplanned lunch dates, and kitchen table talks. It's also true that she's my rock (which sounds odd since I inherit my emotional side from her). She listens, she encourages, she supports, and she prays. A lot. She's given her life to her kids and would do anything for us. She's taught me to walk with Jesus, to walk in a life of faith and love. Most importantly...as I think back to her ways as I was growing into my own, her constant example has taught me how to be a mom....
...and for that, Baby J and I are thankful.
-Thank you for putting your kids first. It rarely mattered if the dishes were piled on the counter, or the laundry was overflowing from the hamper, Mom always made time for us. I remember her lying on her side next to a wispy haired little Taylor, patiently waiting for him to fall asleep on his white Mickey Mouse blanket in the middle of the living room floor. I remember her missing her first born like crazy after he moved off to college. I remember late nights helping me glue pictures on a piece of poster board, or asking me questions on a study guide. I remember sneaking up to her preschool room during 'restroom breaks' at school because I simply needed to talk. And, not only did she always listen, but her eyes always told me that she needed that time too.
-Thank you for always making the little things fun. Passports were never needed in our household; however, a yearly trip to the Minnesota Zoo, Metro-Dome, and Red Roof Inn felt like an exotic getaway for us. Life was simple, but so cozy. Dairy Queen trips, movie nights, and Sunday drives with the windows down were fun little excursions that I always looked forward to. That I still look forward to.
-Thank you for being my best friend. For always taking the time to talk to me, even when I call at a bad time. For setting apart days to come and shop, or eat, or better yet, just talk, because you know I need it.
-Thank you for always knowing what to say, even when I don't acknowledge it at the time. Your honesty, your encouragement, your prayers, and your undying love always provide that light at the end of life's tunnel.
Happy Mother's Day, Mom.
A little pride, perhaps, that I, too, can be part of a day that is about celebrating the universal love that is motherhood.
Excitement, for sure, as I look ahead to a year from now, with another school year almost complete, a bed of new flowers freshly planted, and a chubby seven-month old crocheted onto my hip.
And, a little anxiety, as I am two days away from seeing a black and white picture of the makings of a baby being formed inside of me. A boy, or a girl, being formed inside of me. Whew. No wonder my head is in the clouds a bit today and no wonder I found myself lying wide awake in bed for three hours last night. I'm starting to think the emotions had more to do with the insomnia than the single can of Mountain Dew I drank hours before calling it a night!
As I sat at Applebee's today, watching a first-time mommy, a first-time grandma, and a first-time great-grandma swoon over sweet little Charly, I realized how special this Mother's Day is. Definitely a new chapter for our family. A new chapter I'm pretty excited to read.
Finally...my mom. It's always difficult to write about my relationship with my mom because it's easy to sound cliche to the outside world. It's true, she's my best friend, the person I can't wait to talk to everyday and better yet, see for shopping trips, unplanned lunch dates, and kitchen table talks. It's also true that she's my rock (which sounds odd since I inherit my emotional side from her). She listens, she encourages, she supports, and she prays. A lot. She's given her life to her kids and would do anything for us. She's taught me to walk with Jesus, to walk in a life of faith and love. Most importantly...as I think back to her ways as I was growing into my own, her constant example has taught me how to be a mom....
...and for that, Baby J and I are thankful.
-Thank you for putting your kids first. It rarely mattered if the dishes were piled on the counter, or the laundry was overflowing from the hamper, Mom always made time for us. I remember her lying on her side next to a wispy haired little Taylor, patiently waiting for him to fall asleep on his white Mickey Mouse blanket in the middle of the living room floor. I remember her missing her first born like crazy after he moved off to college. I remember late nights helping me glue pictures on a piece of poster board, or asking me questions on a study guide. I remember sneaking up to her preschool room during 'restroom breaks' at school because I simply needed to talk. And, not only did she always listen, but her eyes always told me that she needed that time too.
-Thank you for always making the little things fun. Passports were never needed in our household; however, a yearly trip to the Minnesota Zoo, Metro-Dome, and Red Roof Inn felt like an exotic getaway for us. Life was simple, but so cozy. Dairy Queen trips, movie nights, and Sunday drives with the windows down were fun little excursions that I always looked forward to. That I still look forward to.
-Thank you for being my best friend. For always taking the time to talk to me, even when I call at a bad time. For setting apart days to come and shop, or eat, or better yet, just talk, because you know I need it.
-Thank you for always knowing what to say, even when I don't acknowledge it at the time. Your honesty, your encouragement, your prayers, and your undying love always provide that light at the end of life's tunnel.
Happy Mother's Day, Mom.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Dear Baby J...
Hello, baby! Today is Cinco de Mayo. That means, your father and I are sitting in the living room, wearing sombreros, completely stuffed from tacos, rice, and beans. I apologize for eating so fast at La Chiquita...I don't think I breathed the entire time I was eating! Someday, we'll take you to Mexico. We'll build sandcastles on the beach, chase the waves, and eat lots of fresh guacamole.
What else do we have in store for you???
Well...We'll take lots of trips to Chicago. We'll eat hot dogs and cheer on the Cubs at Wrigley, explore the last free admission zoo in the country at Lincoln Park, and lay on our backs on a blanket in Millennium Park and watch the fireworks from Navy Pier. We'll ride the ferris wheel, watch the sailboats on Lake Michigan, and peer through the glass at Shedd Aquarium at the thousands of underwater wonders.
We'll go on camping trips in the summertime; pack up the car with blankets and munchies and card games, and drive until we find our destination. We'll sit and tell stories by the campfire, toast marshmallows, and squish them between two grahm crackers and half a bar of chocolate. We'll cuddle up in a cozy tent and listen to the crickets sing us to sleep.
We'll spend lots of time exploring our own backyard. We'll bike through George Wyth, taking time to stop and spot deer and pick up pretty rocks and sticks. Your dad will tell you about the last known 'alligator' swamp in Cedar Falls and we'll eat ice cream cones from Four Queens. We'll have picnics and take naps under trees, read books, and teach you to play cribbage.
We'll take fishing trips with Grandpa Ray and Grandma Mary; Minnesota trips with Grandpa Curt and Grandma Kelly. You'll learn, like your mommy did, to bait your own hook and wait patiently for the first bite. You'll learn, like your daddy, to spot the best stops at the Mall of America and appreciate the talent of the Minnesota Twins. We'll jump on hotel room beds, pack the perfect pillow for the long car ride, and look forward to early morning breakfast at Perkins.
As I think about all the family memories I have, whether it be childhood vacations as a little girl, trips with Beau, or all-family outings, I can hardly wait to start new memories with you. Whether it be across the country, across the world, or across our backyard, we will make every adventure a vacation. We'll dream, we'll play, and we'll live. a lot.
A week from now, we should have a pretty good idea about you being a little girl or a little boy. Promise me one thing...if you are a girl, you will still make your Grandpa Ray proud and bait your own hook. If you're a boy, you must promise to love going on picnics, no matter what your dad says otherwise :).
Love you...Your mom.
What else do we have in store for you???
Well...We'll take lots of trips to Chicago. We'll eat hot dogs and cheer on the Cubs at Wrigley, explore the last free admission zoo in the country at Lincoln Park, and lay on our backs on a blanket in Millennium Park and watch the fireworks from Navy Pier. We'll ride the ferris wheel, watch the sailboats on Lake Michigan, and peer through the glass at Shedd Aquarium at the thousands of underwater wonders.
We'll go on camping trips in the summertime; pack up the car with blankets and munchies and card games, and drive until we find our destination. We'll sit and tell stories by the campfire, toast marshmallows, and squish them between two grahm crackers and half a bar of chocolate. We'll cuddle up in a cozy tent and listen to the crickets sing us to sleep.
We'll spend lots of time exploring our own backyard. We'll bike through George Wyth, taking time to stop and spot deer and pick up pretty rocks and sticks. Your dad will tell you about the last known 'alligator' swamp in Cedar Falls and we'll eat ice cream cones from Four Queens. We'll have picnics and take naps under trees, read books, and teach you to play cribbage.
We'll take fishing trips with Grandpa Ray and Grandma Mary; Minnesota trips with Grandpa Curt and Grandma Kelly. You'll learn, like your mommy did, to bait your own hook and wait patiently for the first bite. You'll learn, like your daddy, to spot the best stops at the Mall of America and appreciate the talent of the Minnesota Twins. We'll jump on hotel room beds, pack the perfect pillow for the long car ride, and look forward to early morning breakfast at Perkins.
As I think about all the family memories I have, whether it be childhood vacations as a little girl, trips with Beau, or all-family outings, I can hardly wait to start new memories with you. Whether it be across the country, across the world, or across our backyard, we will make every adventure a vacation. We'll dream, we'll play, and we'll live. a lot.
A week from now, we should have a pretty good idea about you being a little girl or a little boy. Promise me one thing...if you are a girl, you will still make your Grandpa Ray proud and bait your own hook. If you're a boy, you must promise to love going on picnics, no matter what your dad says otherwise :).
Love you...Your mom.
Happy Cinco de Mayo!
Since we can't celebrate in Mexico...
...we'll settle for the next best thing...
Mexican food!!! La Chiquita $5.99 taco buffet, sombreros, and a street dance!
19 Weeks!
How far along? 19 Weeks!Total Weight Gain/Loss? 2 pounds – a big week for growth!
Maternity Clothes? Wow…maternity clothes sure makes you look pregnant. I guess I’ve been sucking it in too long. Today I wore my first v-necked Gap maternity shirt and students were staring at my pregnant belly all day! A little self-conscious, but heck, I’m almost five months!
Stretch Marks? Nope
Sleep? Last Sunday, I got nine hours of sleep! I went to bed at 9:30 and overslept!
Best Moment This Week? Celebrating Cinco de Mayo with Beau at La Chiquita. Since I couldn’t indulge in a salty margarita, I instead stuffed myself on the four-meat taco bar…Yum Yum Yum!
Food Cravings? Fresh foods…especially now that it is getting warmer. Beau is also quite pleased with me lately…grilled grub sounds great again!
Gender? Starting to sway to the girl side of the fence. It’s a bandwagon I swear!
What I Miss? Did I mention salt-rimmed margaritas?!?!
What I Look Forward To? Tuesday is the big day! Boy ? Girl? Boy? Girl?
Weekly Wisdom? If your shirts are long enough, buttoning pants is completely optional
Milestones? Lots of baby bump growth this week! My tummy is noticeably bigger…
Monday, May 3, 2010
Refreshing Sundays
As a teacher, it's sometimes difficult to enjoy Sundays. Especially during the long months after Christmas break, where the cold, ice-capped winter begins to break into small shards of spring, I oftentimes sit at my kitchen table for long hours, commenting on an endless pile of papers, bending my mind in order to write a day's lesson plan or unit outline, and anxiously watching the last few hours of weekend disappear behind the clock as I attempt to psyche myself up for another work week. As Beau lazily watches football, or neighbors walk their dogs by our front window, I refill my cup of tea and yearn for the Sunday when I can join in on the fun. Yesterday, I joined in on the fun. I looked at my to-do list before church and made some quick fixes. Replaced 'student essays,' with 'plant flowers.' Erased 'To Kill a Mockingbird plans' and penciled in 'snoop around Target.' It was a freeing experience and I must say, as I curled up in bed last night, I felt more accomplished than I have felt on a Sunday in a really long time.
It was refreshing.
Refreshing as a cup of steamy cocoa with a dollop of whipped cream as I softly sing hymns beside my husband in church. Refreshing as a message about a desired destination and a new path on how to get there. Refreshing as an open hand to grab hold of during communion.
Refreshing as the first smell of fresh line-dried laundry. Refreshing as the perfect way the clean clothes hang in the closet. Refreshing as a basket full of clothespins and an empty hamper.
Refreshing as a new bag of soil and a driveway full of pretty flowers. Refreshing as looking outside my front windows at the sight of superbells and petunias reaching their new roots to the full sun in front of them. Refreshing as a front lawn with fresh cut grass, a root beer, and a Subway Italian BMT.
Refreshing as the first afternoon break on the deck, sipping a cherry Italian soda and watching the breeze blow new life into old t-shirts on the clothesline. Refreshing as watching Beau and Dad enjoy an afternoon beer together, and letting Mom pat my pregnant tummy.
Refreshing as the metallic taste of hose water as it drenches our newly planted flowers and bushes. Refreshing as a juicy hamburger on a hot bed of coals. Refreshing as a quick spring storm to signal a day's work done. Refreshing as a fresh pair of socks, an overtly large bowl of ice cream, and a new Pottery Barn magazine.I think I might try this lazy Sunday thing again next weekend :)
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Dear Baby...
Well, here we are...you and me...almost halfway through this pregnancy. I don't know about you, but I can't believe how fast it has went. As I keep on moving through the end of another school year, you are moving too. Baby Development 101 says you are moving your arms and legs like crazy right now, getting ready for lots of years of running around with your mom and dad. You'll keep us busy, that's for sure.
Speaking of your mom and dad, I feel it is only fair to give you a glimpse of what you can expect to be part of in the Jorgensen household; to prepare you for the uniqueness you will be part of. Last night, Beau and I watched your cousin, Charly. She had her two month shots earlier that afternoon (sorry to say you will get these too), and was worn out to say the least. So, for the first 45 minutes, she nuzzled her head into my arm and slept like the sweet baby she is (hopefully you'll follow her lead with the sleeping habits). As I snuggled up with Charly and watched 'Glee,' I felt Beau glaring at me from across the room. He had waited patiently and it was his turn to hold his niece. Soon, she woke up, happy and rested. She smiled, cooed, and watched intently as Beau and I sang several old school 80s songs to her. When I handed her over to Beau, he thought it seemed like the right time to play 'Superman.' Charly embraced this role, sticking both arms out in front of her, even clasping her tiny hands into fists. Her face was the best though. As Beau gently flew her through the air, her look was one of intensity, of a hero on a mission. She loved it, especially when her uncle proceeded to play the 'Superman' theme song on the computer. By the time Jordan and Kelli had returned home, the 'Superman' song had repeated itself multiple times. Needless to say, Charly was happy to see her mommy and daddy!
Will our parenting styles follow the norm? Maybe not. Will we know what we are doing all the time? You can bet not. Will we raise you to be a unique soul, who follows your own ways and makes the world your masterpiece? I sure hope so.
Will we have fun? Absolutely!!!
I love you, sweet little one. - Your mom
Speaking of your mom and dad, I feel it is only fair to give you a glimpse of what you can expect to be part of in the Jorgensen household; to prepare you for the uniqueness you will be part of. Last night, Beau and I watched your cousin, Charly. She had her two month shots earlier that afternoon (sorry to say you will get these too), and was worn out to say the least. So, for the first 45 minutes, she nuzzled her head into my arm and slept like the sweet baby she is (hopefully you'll follow her lead with the sleeping habits). As I snuggled up with Charly and watched 'Glee,' I felt Beau glaring at me from across the room. He had waited patiently and it was his turn to hold his niece. Soon, she woke up, happy and rested. She smiled, cooed, and watched intently as Beau and I sang several old school 80s songs to her. When I handed her over to Beau, he thought it seemed like the right time to play 'Superman.' Charly embraced this role, sticking both arms out in front of her, even clasping her tiny hands into fists. Her face was the best though. As Beau gently flew her through the air, her look was one of intensity, of a hero on a mission. She loved it, especially when her uncle proceeded to play the 'Superman' theme song on the computer. By the time Jordan and Kelli had returned home, the 'Superman' song had repeated itself multiple times. Needless to say, Charly was happy to see her mommy and daddy!
Will our parenting styles follow the norm? Maybe not. Will we know what we are doing all the time? You can bet not. Will we raise you to be a unique soul, who follows your own ways and makes the world your masterpiece? I sure hope so.
Will we have fun? Absolutely!!!
I love you, sweet little one. - Your mom
Our little pepper...
How far along? 18 Weeks!
Total Weight Gain/Loss?
Maternity Clothes? Still squeezing into my regular pants, although it’s getting pretty difficult. I don’t want to spend the money on maternity pants when I only have to make it through a month of school. I actually counted the ‘dress up’ days left in the school year. I think I can make 15 days!
Stretch Marks? Nope
Sleep? I thought people said the exhaustion would go away! I did talk to another teacher today, who made me feel better about my sleeping patterns. She said she used to sneak away in a co-workers office and take short naps during recess and lunchtime…she wouldn't make it through the day without them!
Best Moment This Week? Starting Baby J’s room. It’s fun to see the beginning of a work-in-progress. It makes it even easier to dream…
Food Cravings? Lots of fresh foods…lettuce salads, fresh fruit, tomatoes, and grape juice boxes!
Gender? 2 weeks! We’re getting close!
What I Miss? Energy!
What I Look Forward To? Finding out if we’re having a boy or girl! It’s driving me crazy and the 11th cannot come fast enough!
Weekly Wisdom? Pedicure…great idea! You won’t as easily make time for things like this once you have that baby…take advantage of the opportunity now!
Milestones? Our baby is the size of a bell pepper! It is also flexing its muscles; however, not enough for me to feel them yet!
Total Weight Gain/Loss?
Maternity Clothes? Still squeezing into my regular pants, although it’s getting pretty difficult. I don’t want to spend the money on maternity pants when I only have to make it through a month of school. I actually counted the ‘dress up’ days left in the school year. I think I can make 15 days!
Stretch Marks? Nope
Sleep? I thought people said the exhaustion would go away! I did talk to another teacher today, who made me feel better about my sleeping patterns. She said she used to sneak away in a co-workers office and take short naps during recess and lunchtime…she wouldn't make it through the day without them!
Best Moment This Week? Starting Baby J’s room. It’s fun to see the beginning of a work-in-progress. It makes it even easier to dream…
Food Cravings? Lots of fresh foods…lettuce salads, fresh fruit, tomatoes, and grape juice boxes!
Gender? 2 weeks! We’re getting close!
What I Miss? Energy!
What I Look Forward To? Finding out if we’re having a boy or girl! It’s driving me crazy and the 11th cannot come fast enough!
Weekly Wisdom? Pedicure…great idea! You won’t as easily make time for things like this once you have that baby…take advantage of the opportunity now!
Milestones? Our baby is the size of a bell pepper! It is also flexing its muscles; however, not enough for me to feel them yet!
Sunday, April 25, 2010
A taste of rhubarb
As I mentioned in a post last week, while grocery shopping, I happened to wander by some beautiful stems of luscious red rhubarb. I've never baked or cooked with it; however, I love the taste of it. I've considered adding rhubarb plants next to my peonies in the backyard, but thought I might try experimenting with some rhubarb recipes first. Because I didn't feel like spending hours on a pie crust, even though a strawberry rhubarb pie sounded quite delicious, I instead decided on a rhubarb cake. Today was the first below average temperature day in weeks, and the cold, cloudy, and rainy day seemed like a perfect excuse to fill the kitchen with the aromas of warm cinnamon, brown sugar, and tangy rhubarb.
I wonder how fast it would take rhubarb to grow in the backyard ;)
As I said, I've never experimented with rhubarb, so was surprised when it was really similar to celery. I chopped up two cups it and mixed with the following ingredients:
1/2 cup of butter
1 1/2 cup of sugar
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla
2 cups flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1 cup buttermilk
Then, before popping it in a 350 degree oven for 45 minutes, I sprinkled it with 1 cup brown sugar, 2 tsp. of cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of butter.
During my usual night of Desperate Housewives and Brothers and Sisters, I treated myself to a nice, plump piece of cake and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
I wonder how fast it would take rhubarb to grow in the backyard ;)Finished!
This weekend was about finishing. It started with finishing the remains of three bowls of cereal. Because they wouldn't fill an entire bowl, they've been sitting in the pantry for weeks. So, thanks to Project Pantry, I had three mini-bowls of Captain Crunch, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, and Special K. All were delicious and now I have room to purchase a new box of cereal. Always an exciting decision if you ask me ;)
Beau and I finished the night with a trip to Lowes to purchase a few odds and ends (including an air purifier), and a nice dinner at the Olive Garden. We finished two baskets of breadsticks, one bowl of OG's famous salad, but fell short of finishing our spaghetti and carbonara. Although I didn't come close to finishing our Netflix movie, Twilight, which had been sitting in our living room for weeks (Beau said he thinks the 20 minutes he watched actually made him stupider), I satisfyingly finished the night snuggled up in a bed resting on a beautiful new hardwood floor.
Saturday, we started another project, a project we've been visually planning since about January...Project Nursery. The future nursery is currently serving two very important purposes: 1) our office, complete with a desk, computer, and all of our Internet cords of life; and 2) my dressing room, complete with my color-organized closet, shoes, dresser, and full-length mirror. In order to begin the nursery, we first had to decide on a plan of action for a new wireless Internet station and more importantly, a new, Carrie Bradshaw inspired dream closet (more progress to come on that later).
Today, we finished Step 1 of Project Nursery. Gabe, Ray, and Captain Curt came to help Beau install hardwood flooring in the nursery and our bedroom. The preexisting carpet in the bedrooms was old, not to mention, as bad as my allergies were yesterday, I'm ready to have as little carpet as possible.
If only all home improvement projects were this quick. In one day, we ripped up the old carpet, pulled out the staples, and finished the flooring. Although my head felt like it was going to explode thanks to the mixture of sawdust, carpet remains, and cat fur flying through the air, I cleaned the two rooms and carefully helped Beau move furniture back in its original place.
Beau and I finished the night with a trip to Lowes to purchase a few odds and ends (including an air purifier), and a nice dinner at the Olive Garden. We finished two baskets of breadsticks, one bowl of OG's famous salad, but fell short of finishing our spaghetti and carbonara. Although I didn't come close to finishing our Netflix movie, Twilight, which had been sitting in our living room for weeks (Beau said he thinks the 20 minutes he watched actually made him stupider), I satisfyingly finished the night snuggled up in a bed resting on a beautiful new hardwood floor. Although I'm feeling pretty good about our weekend's accomplishments, I have a feeling one of Beau's favorite authors, Louis L'Amour, and his famous quote may be foreshadowing a series of events to come...
"There will come a time when you believe everything is finished. That will only be the beginning."
Saturday, April 24, 2010
There's a BUN in the OVEN!
That's right. The last couple weeks, Baby J has made its presence known with the small makings of a baby bump. It's a really strange feeling having no control over the changes my body is going through. It's an even stranger feeling knowing that I have the makings of a person hanging out with me every minute of every day. Beau is jealous because I get to "hang out with the baby all the time." Although 'it' doesn't say too much or move too much, it's the best company I've ever had ;)
Here are some photos of Beau's recent masterpiece. I'm sure the summer will bring many more to come.
I also wanted to use this post to pay homage to my husband and his all-time favorite pastime...his smoker. He knows I'm not a huge fan (as the smoke bugs my allergies), so every time I'm going to be gone, Beau buys out the Fareway meat counter and smokes an array of different meats. This week, while I was off on a much needed girls' night with April, Kelli, and Julie, Beau and Starbuck smoked turkey legs, a massive pork chop, potatoes, and two meatloaves...yes meatloaves. I'm not usually a huge fan of the smoky flavor of the food; however, that meatloaf was making my mouth water. I was convinced we would have a fridge full of leftovers; however, I was wrong. I got home from dinner to find Beau, Starbuck, Taylor, and his roommate, David, stuffed on the couch. Nice call inviting two college boys over to help devour the goods.
Here are some photos of Beau's recent masterpiece. I'm sure the summer will bring many more to come.Thursday, April 22, 2010
Happy Day
Happy Day. Happy 'Earth' Day. A day set apart to celebrate the beauty of this beautiful, God-given Earth. I celebrated by taking a quick stroll in my navy blue pointed toe heels down scented Seerley Blvd after school. For about two weeks each year, Seerley is gorgeous. I purposely drive to and from work just to admire the trees. If you've ever seen the movie, 'Pleasantville,' it reminds me of the scene where Buddy takes his girlfriend to Lover's Lane in that really cool convertible and on the way, they drive down this lane with these pretty pink flowered trees. The petals from the trees are falling like rain down into the car and since the rest of the film is in black and white, the pink petals stick out like color on a blank canvas. It would be the best place for wedding pictures. I think I may go back some early morning before the traffic hits. That is, if the trees decide to hold out a little longer.
One of my students surprised me today with a homemade blanket for my baby. A sweet, fleece, Noah's Ark blanket with a handmade card signed, 'love, Alex.' Her mom helped her purchase fabric and she was so excited to bring me the gift. Little did she know it is a gift that will always hold a special place in my heart. It will be so cool to curl up with it and tell my future son or daughter that the blankie was made by one of my high school students.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Dear Little One...
Dear little one,
Tonight, all is well. I'm inching my way to the end of a school year, we're enjoying one of the nicest springs I can remember, and Beau and I have been spending lots of time together doing what we do best: cooking. Yes, I've reacquired my love for the culinary arts. Right now, I'm taking part in Project Pantry, attempting to spend less than $45 a week on groceries while using the large array of foods I've collected in my pantry during my recent cooking aversion. So far, week one is a success! Not to mention, I'm on my third pound of strawberries in three days! They are delicious and I have a feeling there will be lots of strawberry shortcake in your future! One promise I can make you is that you will absolutely never go hungry. Your parents love to cook, take pride in our ever-growing exotic palettes, and like to try new things. Cooking together makes us feel refined. If only, however, I could dive into a tall glass of wine while I create a masterpiece though!
What else is new? Well, in the last week, you have been 'felt'... a lot. For some reason, a few of my girl students have felt it necessary to start touching my belly. It's rather adorable, actually, and I haven't been the weirded-out type to be annoyed by it. If anything, I've really appreciated their comfortableness and excitement. They ask a lot of questions, are always willing to shed advice on baby names and nursery ideas, and are the first to critique my outfits and whether I'm 'showing' or not. My 9th graders, often the most open and honest with their English teacher, are split a bit. Half of them have confirmed (to me) that I've been a lot happier since I've been pregnant and have assigned less homework, and the other half feel I've been 'moodier.' Bless their hearts for their honesty. I can't wait to see their faces come August when I'm huge, hot, and really moody :-)
I guess that's all for week 17. Know that you are loved, even by 14-16 year olds.
-Your Mom
P.S. Beau forgot that I'm doing my best to avoid caffeine throughout pregnancy and made an inviting jug of sun tea. I indulged in a glass during supper. Let's just say, my cat, Jade's ears have been back the remainder of the night ;)
Tonight, all is well. I'm inching my way to the end of a school year, we're enjoying one of the nicest springs I can remember, and Beau and I have been spending lots of time together doing what we do best: cooking. Yes, I've reacquired my love for the culinary arts. Right now, I'm taking part in Project Pantry, attempting to spend less than $45 a week on groceries while using the large array of foods I've collected in my pantry during my recent cooking aversion. So far, week one is a success! Not to mention, I'm on my third pound of strawberries in three days! They are delicious and I have a feeling there will be lots of strawberry shortcake in your future! One promise I can make you is that you will absolutely never go hungry. Your parents love to cook, take pride in our ever-growing exotic palettes, and like to try new things. Cooking together makes us feel refined. If only, however, I could dive into a tall glass of wine while I create a masterpiece though!
What else is new? Well, in the last week, you have been 'felt'... a lot. For some reason, a few of my girl students have felt it necessary to start touching my belly. It's rather adorable, actually, and I haven't been the weirded-out type to be annoyed by it. If anything, I've really appreciated their comfortableness and excitement. They ask a lot of questions, are always willing to shed advice on baby names and nursery ideas, and are the first to critique my outfits and whether I'm 'showing' or not. My 9th graders, often the most open and honest with their English teacher, are split a bit. Half of them have confirmed (to me) that I've been a lot happier since I've been pregnant and have assigned less homework, and the other half feel I've been 'moodier.' Bless their hearts for their honesty. I can't wait to see their faces come August when I'm huge, hot, and really moody :-)
I guess that's all for week 17. Know that you are loved, even by 14-16 year olds.
-Your Mom
P.S. Beau forgot that I'm doing my best to avoid caffeine throughout pregnancy and made an inviting jug of sun tea. I indulged in a glass during supper. Let's just say, my cat, Jade's ears have been back the remainder of the night ;)
Seventeen Bliss
How far along? 17 Weeks!
Total Weight Gain/Loss? up a pound
Maternity Clothes? Last Friday, I rocked my first pair of maternity capris. Do I necessarily need them? No. Did they look wonderfully, utterly attractive? No. Did they provide comfort and much needed room to move while I decorated for the Junior/Senior Prom? YES!
Stretch Marks? Nope
Sleep? I’m afraid it’s only the beginning. For the rest of my life, I will be tired come 9:00 at night. I couldn’t be more disappointed in myself that I can’t even stay up for 24, our favorite TV show. Good thing we have DVR…
Best Moment This Week? My love of cooking and meal planning has come back in full swing. On Sunday, like old times, I made a meal plan for the week and got the groceries I needed. I cut up 3 pounds of perfect, plump strawberries, grilled salmon, and Beau and I cooked chicken and pasta last night. We’ve eaten at the table together 3 nights this week! Now, I’m itching to make a rubarb pie…
Food Cravings? The strawberries I purchased took on a whole new meaning for me this week. I’m not sure if it’s the pregnancy, but they were the juiciest, fruitiest strawberries I’ve ever had. I had them straight out of the carton, over a bowl of vanilla ice cream, and mowed the rest down at work. I even told the check-out lady at Hy-Vee that she should really purchase some!
Gender? 3 weeks until our Gender Reveal Party! How fun!
What I Miss? Making it through all my morning classes without having to pee three times. The overactive bladder has officially begun this week!
What I Look Forward To? 3 weeks until boy or girl; 5 weeks until summer break!
Weekly Wisdom? Give that daddy-to-be of yours lots of loving. He’s the greatest. He helps you interview for an upcoming job for an hour and a half, then after lots of pep talks, tells you he is so very proud of you. Make sure he hears it back.
Milestones? Did I mention the bladder???
Total Weight Gain/Loss? up a pound
Maternity Clothes? Last Friday, I rocked my first pair of maternity capris. Do I necessarily need them? No. Did they look wonderfully, utterly attractive? No. Did they provide comfort and much needed room to move while I decorated for the Junior/Senior Prom? YES!
Stretch Marks? Nope
Sleep? I’m afraid it’s only the beginning. For the rest of my life, I will be tired come 9:00 at night. I couldn’t be more disappointed in myself that I can’t even stay up for 24, our favorite TV show. Good thing we have DVR…
Best Moment This Week? My love of cooking and meal planning has come back in full swing. On Sunday, like old times, I made a meal plan for the week and got the groceries I needed. I cut up 3 pounds of perfect, plump strawberries, grilled salmon, and Beau and I cooked chicken and pasta last night. We’ve eaten at the table together 3 nights this week! Now, I’m itching to make a rubarb pie…
Food Cravings? The strawberries I purchased took on a whole new meaning for me this week. I’m not sure if it’s the pregnancy, but they were the juiciest, fruitiest strawberries I’ve ever had. I had them straight out of the carton, over a bowl of vanilla ice cream, and mowed the rest down at work. I even told the check-out lady at Hy-Vee that she should really purchase some!
Gender? 3 weeks until our Gender Reveal Party! How fun!
What I Miss? Making it through all my morning classes without having to pee three times. The overactive bladder has officially begun this week!
What I Look Forward To? 3 weeks until boy or girl; 5 weeks until summer break!
Weekly Wisdom? Give that daddy-to-be of yours lots of loving. He’s the greatest. He helps you interview for an upcoming job for an hour and a half, then after lots of pep talks, tells you he is so very proud of you. Make sure he hears it back.
Milestones? Did I mention the bladder???
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Happiness Project...A Wish List
This week, my Happiness Project continues; however, I'm veering a little off subject. Instead of writing about the things that bring a smile to my face on a daily basis, lately, I've been smiling a lot thinking about all the things I'm looking forward to about summer. I have begun a new list...a list of delightful little plans I have that will allow me to embrace the sun and relax a bit before a new school year approaches and our lives change forever with the arrival of Baby J. 32. the library. Ever since my mom got her job at the Allison Library, I've been dreaming of the chance to explore the shelves, thumb through the pages of the current best-sellers, and check out books to read FOR FUN. See, as an English teacher, I'm always reading. Reading students' papers, reading professional literature on current methodology and practice, and reading classic and contemporary young adult literature as possible texts in my classes. All of these different reading experiences share one thing: they are all done for a purpose. This summer, I want to read for no other purpose than to enjoy and get lost in a good book. I want to quietly stroll through a cozy lit library and experience that excitement that goes along with checking out a book. I want to sit on my deck, sip a glass of lemonade, and read.
33. pie-making. Last summer, I embarked on a journey to learn the art of pie-making. This year, it's about perfecting. For the first time I've noticed, Hy-Vee currently sells long, luscious legs of rubarb. I've been eyeing it the last few times I've been grocery shopping. It may turn into a crisp or a coffee cake, but I assure you, I will experiment with rubarb before it clears the shelves for the season.
34. flower-hunting. Last year, Mom and I ventured an hour and a half away to a lovely greenhouse owned by a sweet Mennonite family. Their flowers are the best...it's not even worth it to spend a penny on the flowers that are so tempting at Hy-Vee or Wal-Mart. They have everything known to man. The drive in the car gives Mom and I a great excuse to spend much needed time in conversation, and we always leave with a car full of plump, colorful, and exotic flowers. 35. Outdoor exploration with Beau. Three years ago, Beau and I purchased a couple of fishing licenses and spent ample time knee deep in the surrounding waters of the Cedar Valley. We anxiously awaited fish; however, focused much more on 'catching' up with each other. Then, Beau and I decided to demolish and reconstruct a kitchen which took up the majority of our summer. After that project, our little fishing excursions became a thing of the past. This summer, we are bound and determined to bring fishing back to our lives. We've already scoped out spots, and Beau's gracious colleague Phil has offered us use of his canoe whenever we want.
36. Baseball. Whether it be a Cubs game at Wrigley, a Twins game at the new Target Field, or a $1 Buck Night at River Front Stadium, baseball is not only America's favorite pastime, but one of my favorite pastimes. The combination of fresh air, raw sun, and salty peanuts and popcorn screams carefree summertime. I will miss watching Taylor play ball, but hope we can find more time for W'loo Bucks games and maybe even a few IA Cubs (especially on fireworks nights).My summer list is sure to lengthen, but for now, I'm content with my five summer goals. If I make it to the end of summer with a thick bed of flowers, a good book, a suntan, and a full stomach from yummy pie, I'll be one happy girl!
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Today I pulled weeds...
Today, with clenched fists and gritted teeth, I pulled weeds. Spring has arrived and with all the beauty that it entails, my life has been overtaken by weeds. Hopeless, useless, and pointless weeds that overcrowd and disguise all the pretty parts of my flower bed life. And, as we know, if not taken care of every now and then, weeds multiply and spread, eventually taking over our flower beds, killing the flowers and seeds so carefully planted. So...today was it. Today was a day for weeding.My 'weeding' involved a soft blanket, a glass of ice water, and a book. As I laid in my front yard, staring at the cloudless sky, my head felt like a top, balancing on an elevated spot of the ground, spinning madly out of control. I fought back tears, which made my eyes burn behind my thick rimmed sunglasses. Then, as I turned over on my stomach, I noticed two eyes staring at me intensly behind my glass door. There stood my cat, patiently waiting for her escape too. I let Jade out and watched her explore her surroundings, taking in every bird chirp, child laugh, and blade of grass blowing in the breeze. I followed Jade's lead and decided to listen.
I want to notice things. I want to see, and taste, and bask in the small things that writers write about and singers sing about. I want to notice things.
Soon, I started 'seeing.' I tasted the cool breeze and admired the softness of the grass that Beau had worked so diligently on last summer. I heard the grass crackle like Rice Krispies as I laid my ear against the fleece blanket. I tasted summer nights when I was a kid, dancing barefoot in the backyard, sucking on the petals of purple clover growing in the field behind our house. I studied our untamed landscaping and wild weeds and dreamed of summers of flower picking and planting. And eventually, I started feeling better.I went to Hy-Vee and pretended I was at a fresh outdoor market, purchasing only fresh foods and hearty meat to grill. I bought strawberries and rhubarb, tomatoes and greens. I listened to Ron and Pat on 1650 on the drive home, a sound that is synonymous with summer and baseball at Wrigley. Maybe we won't sell those tickets after all...
And, as Beau came home and we walked hand in hand in our neighborhood, I felt better. The 'weeding' I did today helped. My flowerbed life was a bit clearer. And soon...very soon...I'll have time to plant something new to grow. Today I pulled weeds.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Dear Baby...
Hi little one,
Well...here I sit, all wrapped up baby world again. I just returned from my 16-week appointment and can't get over how surreal all of this is. For years, I went to my yearly check-ups and watched as young women with fat tummies came in and out of the doctor's office. I always dreamed about doing the same, and wondered how it must feel to be carrying a child. Now, thanks to you, I get to experience the miracle that it is. This last month went by really fast and four weeks from now is an exciting one. My first ultrasound. My first glimpse of you.
My appointment went great. In and out. I only gained a 1/2 pound, which is quite surprising due to the large amounts of food I seem to be inhaling lately. My blood pressure was good and your heartbeat was ready and waiting, right on cue. Just one heartbeat, that is, meaning you probably aren't concealing any surprise brothers or sisters in there. Dr. Weno said we'd probably know by now if there were twins.
On the drive home, with sunglasses on and the sunroof open (another above average, beautiful day), I couldn't help but picture life with you next summer. When I got home, your dad was mowing the lawn and I couldn't help but picture your little body crawling through the grass or laying in the shade on a blanket. Our world is going to be so much fun with you in it.
I also couldn't help but wonder who you will be and who you will take after.
Will you inherit your mommy's stringy, but soft dark curls and big brown eyes?
Whatever you will be or whoever you will take after, you will be just right to us. We already love you so much.
Well...here I sit, all wrapped up baby world again. I just returned from my 16-week appointment and can't get over how surreal all of this is. For years, I went to my yearly check-ups and watched as young women with fat tummies came in and out of the doctor's office. I always dreamed about doing the same, and wondered how it must feel to be carrying a child. Now, thanks to you, I get to experience the miracle that it is. This last month went by really fast and four weeks from now is an exciting one. My first ultrasound. My first glimpse of you.
My appointment went great. In and out. I only gained a 1/2 pound, which is quite surprising due to the large amounts of food I seem to be inhaling lately. My blood pressure was good and your heartbeat was ready and waiting, right on cue. Just one heartbeat, that is, meaning you probably aren't concealing any surprise brothers or sisters in there. Dr. Weno said we'd probably know by now if there were twins.
On the drive home, with sunglasses on and the sunroof open (another above average, beautiful day), I couldn't help but picture life with you next summer. When I got home, your dad was mowing the lawn and I couldn't help but picture your little body crawling through the grass or laying in the shade on a blanket. Our world is going to be so much fun with you in it.
I also couldn't help but wonder who you will be and who you will take after.
Will you inherit your mommy's stringy, but soft dark curls and big brown eyes?
Or will you get your dad's white blond hair and sparkly baby blues?
Will you take after my timid, but sweet mannerisms?
Or will you be a brave, reckless, little toughy like your dad?
Whatever you will be or whoever you will take after, you will be just right to us. We already love you so much.
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