tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29960975067971348142024-03-14T00:37:34.200-05:00Confessions of a Not So Stay at Home MomDrop in to hear a few confessions as I balance marriage, motherhood, work and community involvement. It gets a little nutty around here!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.comBlogger124125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-70410749513853694002013-04-02T20:42:00.000-05:002013-04-02T20:42:50.994-05:00Confession Number 110: The Countdown Has BegunIt is hard to believe in some ways, but the countdown to Baby Brother 2.0 is in full swing. I was 31 weeks on Saturday, which means, if things go how we think the might, we only have 6-7 weeks or so until this little guy makes his appearance! It is funny how different each and every pregnancy truly is. I'm not talking only about the physical differences. Cravings, aches and pains, etc, but also the emotional differences.<br />
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The path to get this little guy here has been tagged with stress. Stress from having nose surgery right around the time he was conceived to stress of wondering if this pregnancy was going to go the same way as Cole's did. Stress of balancing pregnancy, two kiddos, home and work. I've really had to learn to give up the stress and just live in the moment. I know I will need to remind myself of this many, many times as the next few weeks go by. <br />
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There are some BIG changes! It's been awhile since I've posted a good belly shot. Here is one from 27 weeks. It is really dark and not very good.<br />
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Here is one now, at 31 weeks.<br />
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I've had a few people ask how much longer I have to go and when I tell them they are shocked, thinking I'm about ready to pop. I'm kinda used to that. I may just carry babies in my belly, but my belly gets BIG at the end. I'm really hoping to take weekly pics from here on out so I remember this part of the journey. <br />
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In other "new" news, Mr. Wyatt is measuring big, which is no surprise. At my last appointment he averaged out to about 2-2 and a half weeks ahead of schedule, but his head was 4 and a half weeks ahead of schedule. What does this momma have to say about that?? Ouch. That's about it. We'll keep an eye on him from here on out with non stress tests and ultrasounds to keep an eye on his growth.<br />
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And the nesting has started setting in, although it is a little different this time around. On my mind are things surrounding work. How do I stay ahead with testing just in case I have to start staying at home sooner than expected? What can I do in short spurts on the computer at home? A long, hard day last Thursday that sent me into more contractions than I was comfortable with and feeling exhausted has me rethinking my work game plan just a little.<br />
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Also, I'm wanting to spend time with Dustin and Kennedy and Cole each independently before we add another little human to the mix. We had an amazing Easter weekend together and I had fun time with both of the kids by themselves. Now, for a date night! Hoping to fit that in this week. <br />
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Then there is the normal nursery, cooking, cleaning, laundry nesting that comes with the end of each pregnancy. The nursery isn't even started and I'm starting to get antsy, although it would help if I would make up my mind on what exactly I wanted. :) So, yeah, the countdown to family of five has begun!! <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-36969559280120162282013-04-01T09:21:00.001-05:002013-04-01T09:21:21.091-05:00Confession Number 109: I ForgotI sat down this morning to work on some of the pictures from Little Man's 2nd birthday and realized I never shared my Big Girl's 5th birthday. It was only 6 months ago, so I'm not THAT late. A lot has been going on since then and it just slipped my mind. Anyway, going back and looking through the pics from that day reminded me just how cute her party was and how much I love spoiling my kids on their special days. :)<br />
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Miss Kennedy and I came up with the idea to have a Cake Boss birthday party, since, at that time, that was a show she and I would watch together while Cole was napping. We both loved it! I found a vintage type <a href="https://www.etsy.com/transaction/87631295">cake shop invitation</a> from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/bnute?ref=seller_info">bnute</a>. Betsy does great work and was super easy to work with! KJ decided she wanted everyone to have aprons, chef hats and cake stands with their own cakes to decorate. I can't remember where I found the pink aprons and chef's hats online, but the price was right and they were the right color. I found some <a href="https://www.etsy.com/transaction/88684479">fabric</a> I fell in love with from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/fabricshoppe">fabricshoppe</a> on Etsy. I love Etsy, if you can't tell. I used the fabric to add ruffles to the aprons and make a super cute bunting I hung on the window. <br />
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I embroidered each girl's name on her hat. Soooo cute!!<br />
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Stemmed glassware and vintage china plates were glued together to create cake plates to hold each girl's own cake creation. I found these for pennies at various thrift and Goodwill stores. I have to say, what an easy project!!!<br />
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The girls had so much fun decorating! And I have to say, the adults helping had lots of fun, too!!</div>
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No birthday party is complete without a real birthday cake to blow out the candles on and eat! Our cakes always come from Julie Smith from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Tasty-Creations-by-Julie-Smith/101534044348">Tasty Creations</a> here in Grove. She is amazing and always impresses with her decorating skills and tasty cakes!<br />
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Looking back, we had so much fun! I can't believe we are halfway through her year and she will be six before I know it. That takes two hands to show people!! How that is possible, I just don't know, but I know I am so excited to see what type of young lady she grows into. Love ya Miss Kennedy!!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-73453157404364638392013-01-22T22:04:00.002-06:002013-01-22T22:04:27.783-06:00Confession Number 108: I Love the HolidaysI *love* bank holidays! I know they must be a pain in the rear for some of you, but the somewhat random quality time with my man is sure fun! Since being with Dustin I've learned to appreciate my President's more, heck, I'll even celebrate Columbus with vigor. This week we loved celebrating MLK Jr. Day together. Since KJ was also out of school it was a great excuse for us to spend some amazing family time together.<br />
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Monday morning we jumped in the car and headed to Tulsa. I had an appointment with the amazing Dr. Dietz to check on Baby Brother 2.0, so we stopped there first. Since both kids in a small exam room wasn't his idea of fun, Dustin waited in the car with the crazies and let them watch a movie while I ran in for my quick appointment. Baby Brother 2.0 looked great and we are excited to head back in a couple of weeks to see him on the big screen of the "good" ultrasound room. <br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Baby Brother 2.0 at 21 weeks</span></div>
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The pregnancy seems to be going well. I seem to be getting bigger and bigger everyday. He's becoming more active. Why is it they practice their acrobatics at night??? The Braxton Hicks have started, much to my dismay. They are no worry, just make Mommy a little uncomfortable. Just hoping they stay random! </div>
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After our appointment, we headed to try a new lunch place for us. On the drive down I bought a Groupon for <a href="http://thegnarleydawg.com/">The Gnarley Dawg</a>. It is a hot dog place on Mingo. Really a cool, family friendly place. The kids got plain dogs. I had a regular o' (delicious) chili cheese coney and Dustin ventured out to try a couple of their signature dogs. He even had one with mac and cheese on top! We loved it and will surely be returning! I love being able to hear about new places on Groupon! AND getting to try them out at a discount. Bonus! </div>
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The Gnarley Dawg was just a couple of blocks from our first shopping stop, Mathis Brothers. The kids were troopers as Dustin and I picked out a new couch for the living room, then added a new mattress set for Cole. Looks like he'll be moving to a big boy bed later this week! Pray for us!!</div>
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A few other random shopping trips, including a fun trip to Toys R Us for the kiddies, and a night cap at Pei Wei and we were on our way back home. I love our little shopping trips! We had lots of fun, got some things marked off the "must do before Wyatt" list and relaxed. Something we don't do often enough. Yep. Bank holidays are awesome!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-30939567506437073492013-01-18T08:49:00.002-06:002013-01-18T08:49:23.749-06:00Confession Number 107: I've Fallen Off the WagonI've written before about how one of my saving graces when life gets busy is meal planning. It is so nice to not have to "think", at least about dinner. In the past I have meal planned a week at a time with a big grocery shopping trip once a week. Lately, I've totally and completely fallen off the wagon and that is so hard when I'm not able, or have the energy, to stop by the store at a moment's notice. It results in lots of standing in the pantry and usually ultimately ends up in pizza or our favorite local Mexican joint. After noticing that my freezer was actually over flowing with freezer meals and packages of meat I had picked up on sale, all buried under other stuff I had thrown in there on a whim, I knew it was time to do some planning and use it up before it was ruined. <br />
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This spurred me to meal plan for two weeks. I usually DREAD meal planning and often get stuck in an idea rut, but this actually went fast. It has only taken me about 30 minutes to plan and make out a grocery list this morning. Not too shabby. I started by printing out a cute little calendar. It makes me smile. I found mine here. And it's FREE. Cause I'm cheap like that! :)<br />
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I looked through my freezer and took into consideration meals I had already stashed and meats I had already purchased. Sigh. This makes me feel so. much. better. This isn't written in stone. It will switch around based on whatever trips our trigger and there will still be nights we go love on some queso at the Mexican joint, but overall this helps so much! <br />
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Do you meal plan? What's on your menu?<br />
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On the menu:<br />
Crab cakes, asparagus, roasted potatoes<br />
BBQ grilled chicken, corn on the cob, salad<br />
<a href="http://thisweekfordinner.com/2010/02/05/bistro-chicken/">Bistro chicken</a>, masked potatoes, fried okra<br />
<a href="http://www.annies-eats.com/2009/01/30/pasta-e-fagioli/">Pasta e Fagoli Soup</a> (from freezer stash)<br />
Crock pot roast, potatoes and carrots<br />
Lasagna, bread and salad (half will go into the freezer)<br />
Chili (half will go into freezer)<br />
<a href="http://www.six-cents.com/2012/06/crockpot-freezer-cooking-101.html">Savory Pepper Steak</a> with rice and salad (half will go into freezer)<br />
Ruby's chicken, corn and green beans<br />
Pasta half and half, salad and bread <br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-66621158291124567822013-01-13T08:17:00.001-06:002013-01-13T08:17:44.608-06:00Confession Number 106: Boys Are HarderI know, I know. All of you out there with a mix of boys and girls in your family will disagree with me. You all say boys are hands down easier to raise. That may be so, but in the beginning, I have to say, these boys have been harder. Harder to name. Harder to plan for. Harder to chase. <br />
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Boy names just don't have the cute little ring to them of girl names. Boy nurseries are, well, basically boring. There just aren't many new, fresh ideas with boys. It makes these first few months of decision making hard on a momma. With all of that being said, Dustin and I have recently made two BIG decisions in regards to Baby Brother 2.0. That's what I've been calling him lately. Cute, huh?? <br />
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First is his name. Going into the ultrasound we really didn't even have a boy name "short list". I don't know if we couldn't come up with anything or if we were hedging our bets that we would be seeing a hamburger rather than a hot dog on that little black and white screen, but we had nuthin'. There were several discussions with our families and one name kept coming up from Dustin.<br />
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Wyatt</div>
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If this were a girl, we had already decided that somewhere in her name would be "Claire" as a nod to my mom, Clarese. That didn't seem to work for a boy much and after a day or so my sister made a great recommendation. My mom's maiden name is Kreiger, and she suggested..</div>
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Kreig</div>
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We both liked it rather quickly and have drug it along with us since Christmas. Holding on to it for the past couple of weeks, we have started calling him Wyatt and KJ even added Baby Wyatt to her nightly prayers. We recently decided that we loved it and that it has stuck. So, this spring we will welcome our little </div>
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Wyatt Kreig</div>
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After what seems like forever looking over, what I kept thinking, were somewhat girly boy nursery themes, I found one the other night I felt was worthy enough to take to Dustin. He was immediately in love. The inspiration came from, of course, a link I found on Pinterest.</div>
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<img alt="hudson's nursery" class="attachment-large" height="919" src="http://projectnursery.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/hudsons-nursery.jpg" title="hudson's nursery" width="619" /></div>
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We love the calm, neutral colors with a few, subtle vintage OSU and sports details. It isn't obnoxiously orange. It isn't the same as Cole's sports room, but since they will be connected by the Jack and Jill bath, they will compliment each other perfectly. And what better way to celebrate a little boy named Wyatt than with a few cowboy details in his room? You can find more pictures from our inspiration room <a href="http://projectnursery.com/projects/hudsons-vintage-university-nursery/">here</a>. And follow me on Pinterest <a href="http://pinterest.com/marycharla/">here</a>.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-53572249345048024552013-01-07T07:50:00.000-06:002013-01-07T07:50:13.997-06:00Confession Number 105: I Don't Do ResolutionsNew Year's Resolutions really aren't my thing. Kind of strange when I think of it, considering I'm such a goal oriented person. However, this year, I can't help but find myself considering a few new goals for the coming months. In no particular order...drumroll please!<br />
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<strong>1- Work on my relationships.</strong> Relationships with my kids, husband, friends, God. The list goes on and on. I particularly have let my friendships slide for the most part since going back to work. When I would whine about it (as I often did) Dustin would remind me that friendship is something you have to work toward. It doesn't just happen. Sigh. So, here I am, recommitting myself to calling or texting friends out of the blue, getting together for playdates and mommy dates and making MOPS a priority. The relationships I made with women there are invaluable. This goal also includes more quiet time with God and more meaningful time with my husband and children. The time I have with them should be special and fun, not momma always spending her time marking things off on her to do list. How to find all of this time? Well, I'm still working on that, but at least I'm working on it, right?? The first step is half the battle. At least that is what I'm telling myself.<br />
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<strong>2- Be flexible.</strong> With "Baby Charli" on the way, I do believe this goal may be the key to my existence. This means not getting my tail in a knot when things don't go how I think they should. <em>Embracing being late to church.</em> At least we are there. <em>Hugging on my children even when they don't get a bath every single night.</em> A little dirt under the nails makes them healthier. <em>Leaving the house with out make up.</em> Who am I kidding? I do this frequently anyway! <em>Realizing that work is work and leaving it there.</em> Something I will *struggle* with as testing approaches this spring. <em>Going with the flow when the schedule changes unexpectedly.</em> This one sometimes throws me for a loop and can turn a good mood sour. <br />
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<strong>3- Pray for clarity.</strong> It seems each year I struggle with realizing God's plan for my life. This year is no different. Yesterday in our small group at church, our leader, Lance, asked what our prayer for the year was. So many went through my head. A strong marriage. A healthy Baby Charli. Health for my family. One kept standing out among all the others. Clarity. For God's plan. For God's will. For God to expose Himself to me in a way he never has before. <br />
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So, yeah. I guess I'm doing resolutions this year. I hate it when I'm wrong. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-53674351068844227222012-12-31T08:52:00.000-06:002012-12-31T08:52:48.344-06:00Confession Number 104: It's A Boy!!We had such a fun time the day after Christmas. We had an appointment with the great Dr. Dietz mid morning and we were so hoping that baby would cooperate so we could break the gender news to both families in person. Dustin's parents had gone with us and were with Cole in the waiting room while KJ went in to see Baby Charli on the screen herself. I was so excited for her to get to make this memory! My family waited in Enid as we were heading there straight from the appointment. <br />
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It took a little while to get Charli to cooperate. He was literally sitting criss cross applesauce in my tummy, but after some coaxing, just like his older brother, he was more than happy to share the goods! <br />
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The first words out of Kennedy's mouth were, "well, maybe the next one will be a girl!". I'm not so sure about that, but we'll see! Dustin's parents, were, of course, ecstatic and we had fun sharing the news with my family. I called my oldest sister Cindy and told her, she then made a cake and later that night we shared the news with everyone. Weezie did the honors of cutting into the cake. This will make grandbaby #11 for her! </div>
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I have to say, Weezie called this one early on in my pregnancy. She actually has predicted the gender of all of my kids within the first 8 weeks of each of the pregnancies. Come to think of it, she always knows I'm pregnant before I tell her, too. Creepy. Mom intuition, I guess!</div>
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So, now we are on to room planning, name discussing and wondering how in the world we will manage two Cole's. :) I mean, really, he's a full time job as it is!! But now he will have a buddy to play with! Yay!!!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-14924071574637911092012-12-24T10:07:00.001-06:002012-12-24T20:52:06.907-06:00 Confession Number 103: I Love This Time of Year<br />
Merry Christmas Eve friends! I have to say, for a few days, it seemed as if this holiday season was going to be characterized with a big, black cloud of grief, shock and fear. In addition to the soul rocking shooting at Sandy Hook elementary, there were other various events around us that just brought us down. Then, Saturday night, as my church, the bestest church ever, COS, celebrated Christmas Eve, Eve, Eve our pastor said no matter what has gone on throughout the year, this season gives us a chance to end the year in utter celebration. What on earth could be better than to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ!!! I have to say, it turned my bah humbug attitude right around. No matter how dark our world may seem at times, the only thing that matters is that God sent us The Light to break the darkness! May we celebrate His Light throughout the year!!<br />
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The last day or so with Kennedy has been very special. She is so into everything this Christmas season, it is truly awesome to create so many memories and traditions with both of the kids. This is our first Christmas morning to spend in our own home, and we are all so excited. Now, if the weather will just cooperate for us to travel after the big day. Speaking of the day after, stay tuned for a great big announcement! In addition to all of the Christmas hoopla, we are hoping to find out the gender of Baby #3 on Wednesday. We have big plans in sharing the news, so you won't want the miss the big reveal. To think this time next year we will have another crawler in the house is a little overwhelming, but exciting. Until then, here is a belly shot to get you by. Oh! And Merry Christmas!<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Baby Number 3 at 17 weeks</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-67279374020960462872012-11-25T15:55:00.000-06:002012-11-25T16:37:21.936-06:00Confession Number 102: I StruggledAs a lot of you know, our family is about to grow by two more little feet. Matthews Baby Number Three, or Charli, as Kennedy's calls it, is due sometime in May. We are excited and nervous and a tinsy bit scared, but oh, so happy! I mean who isn't happy when you aren't sick, your bump is tiny and cute and your boobs are getting bigger by the day!! <br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Baby "Charli" at 13 weeks</span></div>
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We are enjoying day dreaming about boy and girl names, nursery themes and living through the occasional "how the heck are we going to do this?!?". I have to say, it took me awhile to get there, though. I struggled with the acceptance of this pregnancy...a lot. After I did the whole psychoanalysis on myself (oh the joys of being a counselor), I realized my struggles were growing roots right in the evil of simple fear. None of those fears, however, were that I didn't think we could handle three kids under the age of six. Although, now that I've typed that......sheesh!!!! I could control that. I could change the way our family runs and incorporate a third little one with just a little hard work. No, my fears were centered on things I couldn't control and those of you who know me personally know I'm kinda sorta, in a big way, a control freak.<br />
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We hadn't necessarily planned this pregnancy. That was another sticking point with me. I thought God and I were on the same page. I thought we understood where the other stood. A third baby was going to be great. In another year or so AND not due during testing at school. Humph. I guess God showed me just how much my opinion counted. :) Surprises are often the best gifts. I was a surprise. And I'm a dang good gift!!! I came around to God's way of thinking rather quickly. <br />
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The other fears? It took me a little longer to get to the place where I knew I needed to be the entire time. Two major fears plagued the first few weeks of this pregnancy. The first was, this baby was conceived right around the time I broke my nose. That means that very early on this baby could have been exposed to anesthesia, morphine, antibiotics and tons of other drugs. The second fear is what I like to call the "Cole Factor". To say that my pregnancy with Cole was complicated is an understatement. If you are new to these parts, you can catch yourself up by reading the story <a href="http://www.charlasconfessions.com/2011/02/confession-number-87-considering-name.html">here,</a> <a href="http://www.charlasconfessions.com/2011/02/confession-number-88-god-dishes-out.html">here</a> and<a href="http://www.charlasconfessions.com/2011/02/confession-number-89-we-didnt-know.html"> here</a>. The story ends with a very healthy, almost 9 pound baby boy being born at 37 weeks, but getting there was a trial, to say the least. During that ordeal, God covered me with a peace. A peace of knowing He was in total control. Not me. I have to say, that peace returned about a month ago. God has plans for us. For this little life in my belly. He says in Jeremiah 29:11,<em> </em><br />
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<em>"For I know the plans<sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19647A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup> I have for you,” declares the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, “plans to prosper<sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19647B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup> you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."</em></div>
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So, here I am, living in God's plan and I'm hoping to find time to share it with you here more. I don't have many stories or pictures from either of my other pregnancies, so I hope to change that this time around. I hope you'll join me in reading and in praying for "Charli's" health.</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-66637240292406376082012-09-16T22:09:00.000-05:002012-09-16T22:09:49.185-05:00Confession Number 101: I'm 6 Months Late- Little Man Birthday BashConsidering most of my readers are mothers, I know you will understand my tardiness. I know you also have hundreds of pictures hanging out in virtual space that you have taken and done nothing with. I know you do. Don't you? Once again, I turn to you to validate my motherly short comings. Now, almost 6 months late, I finally find myself going through the pictures from Cole's Little Man 1st Birthday party. It was an awesome party, if I do say so myself. It is always fun to experience those 1 year ago discussions in the days leading up to my kid's birthdays. I must say, with all of the drama in getting him here safe and sound, those days were even more special. With no further delay, here is a sneak peak into my little man's special day!<br />
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From his entry into this big world, people have said Cole just looks like a little old man. I think it is his hair. He may have set a record for hair cuts in the first year at 8!!! With that being a common statement about him, we decided to have a Little Man Birthday Bash, complete with mustaches and neckties!<br />
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This was our center table. All of my printables came from Gretchen at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/3LittleMonkeysStudio">Three Little Monkeys Studio</a>. She was wonderful to work with! We served pulled pork and ribs from the Mayor of Grove himself, Marty Follis. It was scrumptous, as usual! We also had fresh fruits and veggies and chips and dip.<br />
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His cakes were adorable! All of our cakes are done by Julie Smith at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Tasty-Creations-by-Julie-Smith/101534044348">Tasty Creations by Julie</a>. She is spectacular! </div>
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It was so much fun to put together Cole's first year in photos. Bless him, he truly is a second child. I just don't have the mass quantity of pictures of him that I do when KJ was this age. I must say, the garland was one of my favorite parts of his party! And when you are born in mid-March you will pretty much always celebrate your birthday with March Madness in the background. Luckily, I don't think he will mind!</div>
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He found his favorite present pretty early.</div>
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Sadly, that little orange football recently died at the teeth of Bella, our puppy. Baaaad Bella......</div>
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He didn't really understand why everyone was singing at him. Poor guy!</div>
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He got over it pretty quickly though!!</div>
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All done!!!</div>
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Happy Birthday, Little Man!</div>
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We love you!!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-63404065681824432392012-03-02T10:25:00.000-06:002012-03-02T10:25:38.971-06:00Disney World Day TwoDay Two in the World of Disney was a little crazy. We had a semi-plan, but nothing concrete and that didn't really work in our favor. Everyone was starting to get tired and cranky. It took us most of this day to figure out that KJ couldn't walk everywhere Mommy and Daddy did without getting completely and totally worn out. That was a smart parenting moment. :) <br />
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We started our day off with breakfast with some of the Disney Junior characters in Hollywood Studios. Looking back through the pictures, this could be named "Character Day". We got a lot of autographs and hugs!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-arEWPoJjosw/T1DRrvxO8UI/AAAAAAAABsU/51haZckTi7w/s1600/IMG_7939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-arEWPoJjosw/T1DRrvxO8UI/AAAAAAAABsU/51haZckTi7w/s320/IMG_7939.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> One of Kennedy's absolute favorites, June from Little Einsteins. She's a ballerina and loved KJ's shirt! Jake from the Neverland Pirates was there, too, but I didn't get a great picture of him. If you are thinking of a trip to DW, I highly recommend doing a character meal or two. It is really the only way to prevent standing in line to see them for hours. <br />
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Dustin had read that Hollywood Studios is where quite a few of the characters hang out, so after breakfast we stalked where we thought Minnie would be in a few minutes. It paid off! Kennedy was first in line!<br />
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I love this picture! I think it is going in Kennedy's room.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HwoOuIEwr7k/T1DbMYrFroI/AAAAAAAABss/nys9ha6OttY/s1600/IMG_7964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HwoOuIEwr7k/T1DbMYrFroI/AAAAAAAABss/nys9ha6OttY/s320/IMG_7964.JPG" width="243" /></a></div>We also had fun with Donald and Daisy before we left the park.<br />
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After watching a couple of shows in Hollywood Studios, we had lunch and headed back to our hotel for a little rest. At this point Cole was refusing to sleep in the stroller, so our only chance at getting him to nap was in the room. Once we got up we decided to end our night at Animal Kingdom. We didn't even think about getting there after dark and not being able to see many (any) animals.<br />
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This is where Dustin finally got smart and rented KJ a stroller. It never even crossed my mind. Whew! What a lifesaver!! <br />
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At Animal Kingdom we watched the Lion King show then waited in line for about 45 minutes to see the big guy. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4VJBOGQjm4c/T1Dwx8LkYxI/AAAAAAAABs8/nSI_-PJDbHk/s1600/IMG_7978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4VJBOGQjm4c/T1Dwx8LkYxI/AAAAAAAABs8/nSI_-PJDbHk/s320/IMG_7978.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Cole wasn't too impressed.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qKm2qxHuMLM/T1DxSBy7RqI/AAAAAAAABtE/twOvVnxCmwQ/s1600/IMG_7979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qKm2qxHuMLM/T1DxSBy7RqI/AAAAAAAABtE/twOvVnxCmwQ/s320/IMG_7979.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7KWWF1PO-Iw/T1DyBcoY1OI/AAAAAAAABtM/tcTKPYY1vdQ/s1600/IMG_7980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7KWWF1PO-Iw/T1DyBcoY1OI/AAAAAAAABtM/tcTKPYY1vdQ/s320/IMG_7980.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I'm sure Mickey is used to it. Cole warmed up to him a little bit.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was such a fun day meeting new friends! We all couldn't wait to see what Day Three had in store!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-86904799478003813872012-02-27T21:12:00.000-06:002012-02-27T21:12:52.261-06:00Disney World Day OneSo, is that really true? It's been almost six months since my last post?? Wow. I guess the new face of this blog is going to be in keeping up to date with the biggest things going on around here. One of the latest happenings of the Matthews family was a much needed family vacation to Disney World. I had wanted to take Kennedy for a few months and right around Christmas we pulled the trigger and booked it. We were there for three full days, so I'm going to break down the updates that way. So, grandmas, this one is for you.......<br />
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Our day started off with a trip to Magic Kingdom to see Cinderella's Castle. After wandering around a bit, we found a couple of fairy friends to meet. Welcome Terrance and Vida, part of Tinkerbell's gang!<br />
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Terrance was asking her if she had enough fairy dust to fly back to Oklahoma.<br />
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Vidia asked if her baby brother was annoying like Tinkerbell. She said no. What a good big sister!<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">Watching Mickey's Castle Party with the best seat in the house. Love this!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ryzxx8tQZd8/T0waufTJSsI/AAAAAAAABq8/GMEuHBRdqF8/s1600/IMG_7817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ryzxx8tQZd8/T0waufTJSsI/AAAAAAAABq8/GMEuHBRdqF8/s320/IMG_7817.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
Cole wasn't quite sure what to think about Mickey's party...<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The highlight of Day One was KJ's visit to the Bippity Boppity Boutique. Here she received the "Royal Treatment". She was very good at waiting patiently.....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oFbJ-LAndhs/T0wvs0gRFmI/AAAAAAAABrM/_cxweJcrsLs/s1600/IMG_7830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oFbJ-LAndhs/T0wvs0gRFmI/AAAAAAAABrM/_cxweJcrsLs/s320/IMG_7830.JPG" width="212" /></a></div> She finally got some one on one time with her Fairy Godmother in Training, Ursala. Yes. That is her real name. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M526DGfww_E/T0wv4DBcnuI/AAAAAAAABrU/qx5McZOlTlw/s1600/IMG_7834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M526DGfww_E/T0wv4DBcnuI/AAAAAAAABrU/qx5McZOlTlw/s320/IMG_7834.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div> Let me tell you a little something about Ursala. She had been working in the Bippity Boppity Boutique for 25 years. You read that right, TWENTY FIVE YEARS of doing little girl hair and nails. She stood on her feet 8+ hours a day and was wonderful! What a sweet, nice lady! If you go sometime in the next 5 years, see if you can get Ms. Ursala. She said her magic wand is going into retirement after that. :)<br />
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Here she is doing KJ's makeup......<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And hair.....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AQUKACuaqOk/T0w9CSwaa2I/AAAAAAAABrs/FcfqcpKL_5c/s1600/IMG_7874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AQUKACuaqOk/T0w9CSwaa2I/AAAAAAAABrs/FcfqcpKL_5c/s320/IMG_7874.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <br />
And finally the finished product! Love you Ms. Ursala!!!! The whole process was well over an hour. Incredible transformation into Princess Aurora!<br />
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We capped off the night with a trip back to the Magic Kingdom for the Magical Light Parade and Fireworks Show. Her reactions were priceless! Just watching the smile on her face was enough to make this momma happy. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-psVLmzn1ucY/T0w99sOTfkI/AAAAAAAABr8/gaCAv7YGYA0/s1600/IMG_7908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-psVLmzn1ucY/T0w99sOTfkI/AAAAAAAABr8/gaCAv7YGYA0/s320/IMG_7908.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That is Day One in a nutshell. Days Two and Three to come........</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-36662971753451619512011-08-29T09:12:00.000-05:002011-08-29T09:12:03.745-05:00Confession Number 100: Big Changes are UnderwayWow! Confession Number 100!!! I can't believe it, really. You've been with me through building our home, a complicated pregnancy, the trials of raising a three year old, being snowed in, the sleepless days and nights that come with an infant. You've even stuck with me through the conversations on poop. I guess it is very fitting that on this, my 100th confession, I am able to announce some big changes in our life!<br />
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This blog started as an outlet for me to connect with family and friends that we left behind when we moved to Grand Lake, but it was also a creative way for me to use my brain....something I craved once I started staying home full time with, then, our only child. A lot has happened since the first few days of this site. We survived 9 months in an 800 square foot apartment, we added Baby Brother and now there is one more big transition coming for us. <strong><u>I am returning to work!</u></strong> <br />
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It is only a part time gig, but it is just about exactly what I dreamed of. Dustin and I have known since those first few months of me being at home that my professional life was something that was important to me and even though I have absolutely loved my time at home with Kennedy and Cole, there was still a hole that could only be filled with working to improve the lives of other children through education. Quite a few months ago I started praying that God would help resolve this tug of war inside me between spending time with my own children and returning to work. With the encouragement of Dustin and some close friends I emailed the Superintendent here in Grove, Mrs. Harper, to volunteer my services in the field of testing analysis and school improvement. I told her I wasn't looking for a job, but that God was laying it heavy on my heart that I was to reach out to our local school system with the talents He had given me. <br />
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Within 30 minutes I had a reply. Long story short, in a couple of weeks I will begin working three days a week as the counselor at the Early Childhood Center and as a testing data analyst. Yes, you read correctly, the ECC. I will be working with 4, 5 and 6 year olds. Start praying now! :) This is a huge change from the 17 year olds I'm used to working with, but the way this all fell in place, I just KNOW this is His plan for me, for our family, right now. <br />
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So, yeah. There are some big changes for us right now. Getting out the door by 7:30 in the mornings, Cole going to Ms. Terry's a few days a week, Kennedy having longer days at school to accommodate our new schedule. I keep reminding myself that millions of families do this everyday and we used to do it perfectly, too. Finding that balance in life during this transition period I know won't be easy, but by Thanksgiving we'll have it down pat!<br />
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I'm so excited about this opportunity professionally. I'm excited to get in there, get my hands dirty and help make Grove Public Schools the best in the state! I know we have the leadership and vision to do it and I'm pumped to be on the inside working hand in hand with our administrators to get us there. I'm even excited to work with the little ones some. Scared, but excited. Who knew the thought of 25 five year olds in one room would send me into cold chills like the thought of going through another 3 hour glucose test?! It is a good scared, though. I know that I'm there to make their lives better and to help those little guys who can't quite help themselves, yet. I've changed a lot staying at home with Kennedy and Cole and that is what gives me the ability to do this job well. <br />
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So, pray for me. Pray for our family. Pray for the kids that I will be working with and that I can be an element of change and success that our schools need. <br />
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And pray about a new name for the blog. Seriously, this one just doesn't work anymore. :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-77639090486262498852011-08-12T10:19:00.000-05:002011-08-12T10:19:32.759-05:00Confession Number 99: I Have GoalsI've always been a goal setter. Since I was a teen I had a clear idea of where I wanted to go and what I wanted to do once I got there. It has always worked for me to have something to work toward, to strive for. <br />
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This weekend is really no different. Dustin is headed south for the weekend to spend some time with his folks. He could use a break and I think he and his dad have plans to do all things golf. So, while Daddy is away the kids and I are going to enjoy a great weekend. Here are some of the things I hope to get accomplished the next few days....<br />
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1. Make it to the pool. Three days in a row. <br />
2. Eat foods Dustin doesn't like. Meatloaf and Chicken Spaghetti are already on the menu. <br />
3. KJ and I are having a Mommy Date Night. Early bedtime for Cole, Rio via pay per view, and popcorn with M&Ms. Can't think of anything better!<br />
4. Planning the finishing touches for her big upcoming birthday. I see yards of tulle and mermaid skirts in my future.<br />
5. Invest a little in myself by reading my first book on my iPad. I bought "The Help" this morning. Hoping to have it read by Monday evening so I can go see the movie with the girlfriends. We'll see how I like this whole flipping virtual pages thing. <br />
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So, this is what I'm up to this weekend. What are your plans? Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-91735027494207653192011-08-10T12:08:00.000-05:002011-08-10T12:08:21.026-05:00Confession Number 98: I'm Not Sure What to DoSummer vacation has officially come to an end in the Matthews household. Kennedy's first day of Pre K at the Academy is today. She was so stinkin' excited! It was after 11 before she finally gave it up and fell asleep. <br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">We are so excited for her to be able to return for one more year with Ms. Judy and Ms. Cheryl at The Academy. It gives her some consistency, but opens the doors for tons of fun opportunities. She is going four days a week this year while she only went two, then three days a week last year. She will start reading and will have more "homework" which is pretty amazing. It is incredible how much our little girl has grown up in the past year. Here she was on the first day of preschool last August...</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PedBHsVxDq4/TkK3dwL7NcI/AAAAAAAABo4/zYnONeC1ENk/s1600/IMG_5384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" naa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PedBHsVxDq4/TkK3dwL7NcI/AAAAAAAABo4/zYnONeC1ENk/s320/IMG_5384.JPG" width="251px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">And here is how our big girl looked as she took off for her first day today...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RO8VBgWkn70/TkK36gDN-AI/AAAAAAAABo8/LhuuBi1jQxQ/s1600/IMG_7083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" naa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RO8VBgWkn70/TkK36gDN-AI/AAAAAAAABo8/LhuuBi1jQxQ/s320/IMG_7083.JPG" width="198px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What a difference a year makes!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Not only is it a big day for Kennedy, but it is a big day for momma, too. I have found myself fumbling around the house this morning, not quite sure what to do. Oh, I <em>have</em> plenty to do, I just haven't quite gotten it in gear enough to actually do much. I've thrown in a load of laundry here and there, Cole and I have played and read and he enjoyed a bottle and a couple of cat naps, I've even made a to-do list! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I just can't seem to get over the quiet! Right now all I hear is the hum of the computer and the waves crashing sound from Cole's swing. God has even sent us a slow, steady little rain. Ahh. So, for now I'm going to sit back and enjoy the quiet...and the rain. I might get something accomplished today, I might not. 3 o'clock will be here before I know it and I'll be so excited to hear all about her first day of Pre-K!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'll worry about getting things accomplished tomorrow.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-88686130130010920412011-06-20T11:24:00.000-05:002011-06-20T11:24:32.095-05:00Confession Number 97: I Love Our Small TownOver the last two years, I have come to absolutely love our small town life. Summertime is an amazing time to experience Grove and Grand Lake at it's best. There are about a million reasons why I love it here, but here are just a few I've captured in the last week or so.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9OKAKR6fwsI/Tf9ur2_ySVI/AAAAAAAABn4/twkgIXLVgYo/s1600/IMG_6794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213px" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9OKAKR6fwsI/Tf9ur2_ySVI/AAAAAAAABn4/twkgIXLVgYo/s320/IMG_6794.JPG" width="320px" /></a></div>I have a hair lady who doesn't think I'm crazy when I say I need my three month old's hair cut. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-exBlGRalAfk/Tf9uGO_kIjI/AAAAAAAABn0/Eq42oZHRdHA/s1600/IMG_6797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314px" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-exBlGRalAfk/Tf9uGO_kIjI/AAAAAAAABn0/Eq42oZHRdHA/s320/IMG_6797.JPG" width="320px" /></a></div>She loves my kids and they pretty much think she rocks! I think you rock, too, Tanya!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QJeSqCJ0wmA/Tf9txkF3mcI/AAAAAAAABnw/HZVlyfX2DHI/s1600/IMG_6812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213px" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QJeSqCJ0wmA/Tf9txkF3mcI/AAAAAAAABnw/HZVlyfX2DHI/s320/IMG_6812.JPG" width="320px" /></a></div>There is a lady who delivers farm fresh eggs to the bank each week. They are shades of tan and brown and they are beautiful inside and out! Some are even speckled. I'm in love. With an egg. Kinda sad, huh?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ajxDzz1lfN8/Tf9tPmpBo5I/AAAAAAAABns/Nf4uweIvvsQ/s1600/IMG_6799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258px" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ajxDzz1lfN8/Tf9tPmpBo5I/AAAAAAAABns/Nf4uweIvvsQ/s320/IMG_6799.JPG" width="320px" /></a></div>We have this incredible public pool! This picture of Kennedy in her swim class doesn't even do it justice. There are two huge slides and a shallow part with a splash structure for little kids and two incredible diving boards. I hadn't gone until this past weekend and now KJ is taking two weeks of swimming lessons there. I'm totally hooked!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cJD7Gkt2P4I/Tf9tBaVc07I/AAAAAAAABno/PlOJVIrjyqM/s1600/IMG_6789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213px" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cJD7Gkt2P4I/Tf9tBaVc07I/AAAAAAAABno/PlOJVIrjyqM/s320/IMG_6789.JPG" width="320px" /></a></div>We have some pretty amazing friends. Dustin, KJ and I all have individual friends, then there are family friends. Friends with kids, friends without kids. Friends to play with, friends to talk to. Friends, friends, friends! They are really what makes this town great! This is one of KJ's BFF's, Hannah. They were playing at Rotary Park which is right next to the splash pad. So much fun!<br />
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I could go on and on. A brand new state of the art hospital, doctors that rival the care we received in the big city, a library that puts some metro systems to shame, beautiful lake views, a great mix of the young and old. I can't even begin to list all of the great things about Grove here. Seriously? One of the best small towns in the country! <br />
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Now if we only had a Chick Fil A......Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-43341594229162945612011-06-17T09:21:00.000-05:002011-06-17T09:21:00.422-05:00Confession Number 96: Unintended Intentional SummerA few weeks ago my friend Megan over at <a href="http://sortacrunchy.typepad.com/sortacrunchy/">Sorta Crunchy</a> wrote about the c<a href="http://www.sortacrunchy.net/sortacrunchy/2011/05/a-gentle-parents-survival-guide-to-six.html">hallenges and joys of parenting her six year old</a> and shared some insight from Allison at <a href="http://www.gentlechristianmothers.com/community/index.php">Gentle Christian Mamas</a>. While my girl isn't six, but only three, I saw a LOT of similarities, and as I read this Survival Guide to Six I knew that there were some ideas I could use to turn my summer of Almost Four into a fun one, not a stressful one. <br />
<br />
I know that Kennedy loves a schedule. Sort of. Dustin and I are VERY easy going parents. I'll drag my kids just about anywhere. We made a decision while I was pregnant with KJ that our kids were going to fit into our exsisting lives as much as possible, and they have, for the most part. My kids are well practiced at napping on the go, being pushed around town in the stroller and both are really quite flexible. I *know*, however, that KJ really thrives when we have a plan for the day and she knows what is coming next. <br />
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I thought more about this when Megan wrote about their <a href="http://www.sortacrunchy.net/sortacrunchy/2011/06/creating-summer-our-daily-routine.html">summer schedule</a>. While I am not really a schedule person, I knew I had to have some goals for the summer, or we would both be bored and would slowly go crazy over the three month break. So here is how we are spending each day intentionally. Each day with some purpose. I decided we would spend some time each day doing something that fits into these areas:<br />
<br />
1. Being Active- Sometimes this is swimming, sometimes it is chasing bubbles, sometimes it is walking around our neighborhood. Whatever strikes us for the day. Kennedy would spend all day, everyday, inside if I would let her. I have to make it a point to have some active, outdoor time each day. Besides, my summer tan is in need of some serious help.<br />
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2. Creativity- Kennedy loves being creative! On some days this is sidewalk chalk, on others it is baking. We are currently doing a scrapbook together of her year in preschool and she loves looking at the pictures of her friends! It's nothing crazy good, but it is special to us.<br />
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3. Educational- From practicing letters to reading library books, we are "practicing school" a little bit each and every day.<br />
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So, maybe this isn't a schedule. It is a plan. Each day at breakfast we talk about what we are going to do that day. I have realized that if that particular day includes a nap, she is much better about doing it if she knows in advance! She knows what is coming next and it is giving her some sort of aspect on time without being tied to a clock. Today is: TV time, getting ready, picking up the house, lunch, swimming at the pool, snack, reading and/or quiet time. Then it is a night with the sitter because Mom and Dad are having a much needed night out!! What? No creative time? Well, maybe she can do some drawing and stickers while I get things together for the sitter. See? We are nothing if we aren't flexible!<br />
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So, what are you doing on a daily basis this summer?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-41689129915679922362011-05-26T10:47:00.000-05:002011-05-26T10:47:01.896-05:00Confession Number 95: I'm GoingThis past Tuesday afternoon I got a phone call from Mom and Lynn.<br />
<br />
"Charli, there is a large tornado a mile west of Piedmont." <br />
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I ran to the computer and found the live stream from an OKC television station. It wasn't "large", it was HUGE and it was baring down on our previous home. <br />
I panicked. <br />
I yelled prayers to God.<br />
I cried.<br />
I called Dustin at work. <br />
I hit refresh on the radar.<br />
I cried some more.<br />
When I thought it was clear I started making calls. No answers.<br />
I panicked again, but I knew communications must be compromised.<br />
Finally I got through and started making the way down my list.<br />
Scott and Shelli? Safe, no damage.<br />
Matt and Nicci? Saw it face to face, but safe with no damage.<br />
Marcie? Safe, no damage.<br />
I also got from those I talked to who else was okay. <br />
The Glasgows? Fine.<br />
Dustin was working his phone, too.<br />
The Samarripases? Fine.<br />
The Wyatts? Fine.<br />
Then finally he got a text from the ones we couldn't get in touch with. <br />
The Caldwells. "We are safe, but lost EVERYTHING."<br />
The Johnsons, same story,<br />
Their homes are completely gone with only a few bags of things that may or may not be salvagable. <br />
I'm headed home to Piedmont this weekend to help. If you are in the Grove area and would like to help fill my truck, here are some things I'm looking to take:<br />
<br />
Boys clothes size 3T <br />
Boys shirts size XL<br />
Boys pants size 8 slim<br />
Boys toys for 3 year old and 7 year old<br />
Girls clothes sizes 4 and 8<br />
New towels and washcloths<br />
New kitchen items<br />
Bottled water<br />
Snacks<br />
Work gloves<br />
Trash bags<br />
Ice chest<br />
Gift cards<br />
<br />
There has been tragedy all around us this spring. What a great time for us to come together and lift each other. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-83872866737951858272011-05-18T12:31:00.000-05:002011-05-18T12:31:31.534-05:00Confession Number 94: She's PassionateTo say that Kennedy is a passionate soul may be putting it lightly. She loves what she loves with her whole heart and when she doesn't love something, well, she does that with her whole heart, too. We have really been struggling with keeping our passion in check at our house. I know part of it is the hardship of being almost four, but holy smokes, this child tests our patience sometimes! <br />
<br />
We set distinct boundaries. "Kennedy, you can play on the computer for 10 minutes" as I set the timer on my phone. That seems to work a few times then, out of the blue, nuclear meltdown occurs. Screaming, crying, clawing, hitting, it is all fair game when one of these fits begin in Kennedy's mind. <br />
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Taking a page from my friend Angie's parenting book, I decided to take pictures of said fit throwing, making it fun and threatening to send to Mimi and Weezie. Well, okay, maybe posting on the world wide web will be enough embarassment.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cDJexcZ9Yx8/TdPm78a9uMI/AAAAAAAABnE/9HuXoc864oo/s1600/IMG_6523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cDJexcZ9Yx8/TdPm78a9uMI/AAAAAAAABnE/9HuXoc864oo/s320/IMG_6523.JPG" width="228px" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c34T2_OhNcI/TdPnNvZAIvI/AAAAAAAABnI/GVr0b_Tcqck/s1600/IMG_6524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c34T2_OhNcI/TdPnNvZAIvI/AAAAAAAABnI/GVr0b_Tcqck/s320/IMG_6524.JPG" width="276px" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j0PxEUc1mnU/TdPnh0Hn1WI/AAAAAAAABnM/DiLNTLFTC5k/s1600/IMG_6525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j0PxEUc1mnU/TdPnh0Hn1WI/AAAAAAAABnM/DiLNTLFTC5k/s320/IMG_6525.JPG" width="213px" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-seYEIVkpb8M/TdPnsGoSG7I/AAAAAAAABnQ/Qo-EaaW4uR8/s1600/IMG_6527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-seYEIVkpb8M/TdPnsGoSG7I/AAAAAAAABnQ/Qo-EaaW4uR8/s320/IMG_6527.JPG" width="208px" /></a></div>It didn't work. So, here I am, asking for help once again. How do I help teach my daughter to keep her highly passionate emotions at a reasonable level?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-83263122039984276172011-05-10T14:39:00.000-05:002011-05-10T14:39:13.372-05:00Confession Number 93: He's A Pretty Lucky FellaI love Mother's Day. It's just one of those 'warm your heart make you feel good' kinda days. I love snuggling up with my kids and not really doing anything in particular but celebrating our little family. Of course the pampering that comes with the day isn't too bad, either. One of the sweetest gifts this year was when Dustin decided he would get up with Cole during the night. He normally does a good job helping out anyway, but, ahhh, sleep. So good!!<br />
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I cherish those little handmade projects from Kennedy, and now that she can write, I love that she can sign her own name (and Cole's) to her card. Dustin is a great gift giver. Always has been. He's passing his skills on to his daughter, and even though I can't wait for the time that she gets to go pick out her own gift for Mommy, I absolutely love seeing what Dustin comes up with next. A new truck, an iPad, diamond earrings, a special KJ and mommy video and gift certificates to my favorite shoe store are all highlights of gifts past. My heart goes out to those of you whose husbands don't possess the same "skillz". The very small materialistic side of me loves this about my husband....along with about a bazillion other things. :-) <br />
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This year they really went over the top. I got three cards. The first was from Kennedy. It was a princess card with crown stickers for us both to wear, signed in her perfect little almost four year old handwriting. Tucked inside were two tickets to Game 5, Thunder vs. Grizzlies in OKC for Wednesday night. Eeekkk! Sooo excited! Next was Cole's card, claiming I was an amazing mommy (duh!) and inviting me to dinner at my fav OKC restaurant, Cattleman's. This boy sure knows the way to his mommy's heart! Finally I opened a card from my fellow zoo keeper, Dustin. Out fell a night's stay at the Embassy Suites in Norman after the game. <br />
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I was literally ecstatic with my gift! I made the comment that this was the 'best Mother's Day ever'! Later in the day Dustin smiled and said, "What a lucky guy I am to have a wife that thinks NBA playoff tickets make the best Mother's Day ever." <br />
Yep. <br />
Your one lucky fella. <br />
Better not forget it. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-6626053745391720892011-04-26T17:20:00.000-05:002011-04-26T17:20:20.649-05:00Confession Number 92: I Need A New PurseLast weekend Dustin and I ventured out on a shopping trip with both kiddos in tow for the first time. Now I've hit Wal-Mart and the grocery store with both Kennedy and Cole in hand, but this wasn't a short trip into town. We packed up Momma's new Kitty Caddy (our recent vehicle purchase was an Escalade) and headed to Tulsa with a 'not as happy a baby as his sister was' one month old and an 'I have found my voice and love to use it loudly' three year old. It took guts, but over two months of being confined to Grove, America had us desperate for things of grander. You know, like clothing stores that don't also sell fishing bait and fancy chain restaurants with drink menus. <br />
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The day was going well and we decided to make a stop by Utica Square so I could shop at Gap. On the way there KJ had fallen asleep and Cole was wide awake, so we decided to carry Cole and put Sleeping Kennedy in the stroller so Dustin wasn't confined to the car while I shopped. It was a great idea and I got some great bargains for both KJ and myself. As I bent down to get my purse from the bottom of the stroller I noticed it was wet. My purse was soaked and upon further investigation I found the cargo compartment of the stroller to have tons of water. I figured something in my purse had leaked. I quickly paid for our purchase, found Dustin and we decided to head back to the car to find the culprit. <br />
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Hmmm. Interesting. There wasn't a water bottle in my purse. Or anything liquid really. While Dustin was trying to save things from my purse I started putting kids back in their carseats. I lift a very heavy, Sleeping Kennedy to put her in the car, only to find that she is soaked. Evidently the two cups of fruit punch at lunch weren't such a good idea before naptime. That explains the standing liquid in the bottom of the stroller and the absolutely sopping purse. A quick trip back into Gap to purchase my three year old a $14 package of panties, a change into a new outfit and we were good to go. The purse...and most of its contents...found the trashcan. This is why I don't buy Coach. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-79910104315907015152011-04-14T10:31:00.000-05:002011-04-14T10:31:27.602-05:00Confession Number 91: She's Pretty Good<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Dang! I didn't realize how long it had been since I had posted until I logged in today. Hopefully things are getting a little settled around here. While it hasn't been as hard as we thought it might be, getting into the groove of chasing, holding, feeding, bathing two kiddos has taken some time. We are working on getting Cole into a routine this week with his sleeping and eating and working on keeping everything else as normal as possible. While there have been a few challenges and those moments where you question what you are doing and if it is best, the second time around has been a lot easier. There aren't as many moments when we question our decisions or worry about whether or not he eats every 2 hours or 3 hours is going to have lifelong effects on his health. We are more relaxed this go around and that fits our lifestyle so much better!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">One thing I have always regretted with Kennedy was that we weren't with it enough in those early days to think about getting some cute newborn pictures done. Later we made up for it by having them done at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months, but I always wished we had some cute naked baby pics to complete the package. So, having these cute little reminders of how tiny and cuddly Cole is was a priority of mine.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">A lot of you know I'm pretty partial to our picture taking buddy, Shannon Gurney in OKC. Shannon has done our annual family photo session for the past three years and we LOVE HER. She does awesome work and if you are within driving distance of OKC, I highly recommend you check her out. She's actually getting Mom and Lynn in front of her camera in early summer and that is a feat all of it's own! While we worship Shannon, she is um, well, three hours away AND her business has taken off so much she recently quit doing newborn photo sessions (much to the dismay of our OKC friends who also just had babies). I think the sessions gave her too much baby fever because she is now expecting her third. Congrats, friend!! </div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Since moving to Grove I have come to know my amazing friend, Stacy Clark. Stacy, like a lot of modern day photographers, is self taught and captured my heart when I found out that she loves natural light photography. She started taking photos after becoming a stay at home mom with her first. Since then she has built her business and does a fantastic job! We met at her house, and even with some very finicky sunlight, she got some absolutely beautiful shots of our little man. I'll cherish them forever and I'm thinking we'll keep her pretty busy over the next year or so. I hope she has lots of good ideas!!!!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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Isn't she pretty good?? If you are in the Grove area, you will be kicking yourself if you don't get some Stacy Clark Portraiture love for your own family. Check her out <a href="http://www.clarksportraiture.com/">here</a>. You'll be happy you did! Or, if you are an OKC reader, you must let Miss Shannon get some amazing shots of your family. See her latest work <a href="http://www.shannongurneyphoto.com/blog/">here</a>. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-66867192742456596932011-03-03T08:40:00.000-06:002011-03-03T08:40:32.243-06:00Confession Number 90: She's My Girl<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">KJ got her hair cut yesterday......</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KIgdLSap7jI/TW-nTIeR-7I/AAAAAAAABkw/uOSNVc2K9Ok/s1600/IMG_6178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KIgdLSap7jI/TW-nTIeR-7I/AAAAAAAABkw/uOSNVc2K9Ok/s320/IMG_6178.JPG" width="206" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">It had gotten super long, and while it was beautiful when we really fixed it, it had just gotten to be a hassle. She asked to have it cut and I didn't object. Her hair is like mine and grows pretty quickly, so, without any more cuts, it is likely to be halfway down her back by the end of the summer, anyway. Today she is rockin' her new style at school with a little barrette. We haven't been able to get by with that in ages. Oh! And just what do you think of those pink cowgirl boots? She's the rootinist tootinist girl in all of Grove today! Thanks Papa Lynn!!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-89144336956241169612011-02-28T13:01:00.000-06:002011-02-28T13:01:02.941-06:00Confession Number 89: We Didn't Know, Update on Baby ColeAfter a very long last week the Matthews' family was able to settle in for a quiet weekend at home. Friday we returned to our local hospital for some monitoring and to meet with our doctor. Thankfully, Friday was a better day than the last few. While I am still contracting, somewhat regularly, Cole's heart rate is doing well and he is tolerating the contractions much better than he was earlier last week. In fact, my doctor was so pleased with my progress, that we don't have to go back until Tuesday! Praise God!!<br />
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I have to say, we did find out that the situation we were facing on Wednesday was a little more serious than Dustin and I originally knew. We knew that Cole wasn't doing well and we knew that they wanted us quickly moved to Tulsa in case an early delivery was necessary, hence the whole helicopter thing. :-) What we didn't know was how close we were to having a baby on Wednesday. Evidently there was some discussion between the doctors to do an emergency c-section in Grove on Wednesday, then transporting Cole to Tulsa once he was stable. Once they decided to transport us it took a couple of hours to get everything in line for us to leave. One of the issues was that the hospital in Tulsa was full and didn't have a room available for us. I am thankful that one became available when it did, because I truly believe had we been waiting much longer we would have a baby right now. Dustin and I never had a clue things were that bad. Thank goodness! I probably would have melted down! <br />
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The weekend has been quiet and I'm feeling great, however, I don't think that is an adequate assessment on how things are going, since I never felt really any different through the whole ordeal. I am still having some disturbance and contracting, but I feel like they have lessened since last week. I guess we'll find out tomorrow when we go for our appointment. <br />
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I have to say, this whole bed rest thing is eating on me a bit. I know I'm getting grouchy, even though Dustin lets me get up periodically throughout the day. As you learned during the snow storm, I don't do cooped up well, much less when I can't even shower, get dressed, and fix my hair and makeup before being told to lay down and take it easy. I'm trying *really* hard to be a good patient. Sometimes I think being in the hospital would be easier because I wouldn't be tempted to get up and do the load of white laundry that has been staring me in the face all morning. I know deep down it wouldn't, but I'm sure you get my drift. <br />
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Dustin and I really want to thank all of you for your thoughts, calls, texts, emails and, especially your prayers. We know without your support and lifting us up that the story would be much different right now. Praying for one more week!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996097506797134814.post-5840549122804746252011-02-24T20:56:00.000-06:002011-02-24T20:56:51.762-06:00Confession Number 88: God Dishes Out InterruptionsMy mom has been going to a lady's Bible study at her church where they are discussing the little interruptions God sometimes sends to our lives. She and I have talked candidly about her study the last few weeks, but we got a real-life lesson in these interruptions the last few days. <br />
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As you all know, I'm very pregnant with our second baby, Baby Brother Cole and the pregnancy has been great. A tad different from the one I experienced with Miss KJ, but it has been relatively easy and I haven't had much to complain about. Minus a scare with gestational diabetes that I wrote about <a href="http://www.charlasconfessions.com/2011/01/confession-number-75-ive-turned-it-over.html">here</a>, there really haven't been any issues. I did, however, start having Braxton Hicks contractions rather early this time around, about 22 weeks. My doctor wasn't overly concerned about them as long as there was no consistency, which there hadn't been until my <a href="http://www.charlasconfessions.com/2011/02/confession-number-87-considering-name.html">regular appointment on Tuesday</a>.<br />
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I know a lot of you have been keeping up with bits and pieces of our story since then on Facebook, but that is about all I had time to post, bits and pieces. I wanted to make sure you had the whole story, so here it goes. <br />
Wednesday started off very well. I enjoyed a relaxing morning watching Disney Junior with KJ in our bed until I needed to get around to head back to the hospital for a second round of monitoring and the second steroid shot just in case Cole decided he wasn't satisfied with the accommodations of Hotel Mommy. The monitoring went great and the nurse came in to tell us that we were free to go home, she just needed to complete our discharge papers just as I had a contraction. After not returning for about 15 minutes, she called to let us know that during that contraction Cole's heart rate had dropped below their comfort level and that she was waiting for a call back from my Dr., but that they were going to monitor us for awhile longer. About 30 more minutes, another contraction and another heart dip later my Dr. was in my room to let us know that we would be staying for a few days. She hoped it would only last 3 or 4 days, but told us to prepare for a week or so of hospital bed rest. She ordered a whole slew of tests and kept me constantly on the fetal monitor.<br />
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3:30 rolled around and she returned. I had had roughly six contractions during this time (not horrible), but in five of them Cole's heart rate had dropped. He obviously wasn't tolerating the contractions well and with no NICU in our rural hospital she suggested we transfer to St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa, where, if needed, they could handle a preemie born at 33 weeks. Unfortunately, this meant getting me there as quickly as possible, which was by chopper. Dustin, KJ and my mom hopped into their vehicles and got a head start and shortly thereafter I was in the air with EagleMed, on my way. Talk about traveling in style!<br />
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Upon our arrival at St. Francis, they reviewed my test results from Grove and ordered more tests. At this point I had been poked and prodded about all I could stand in one day. While my contractions were actually more frequent once we got there, Cole's heart rate had stabilized and he was tolerating them much better. By 11:00 they were pretty pleased with what they were seeing, gave me the most amazing sleeping pill ever, and let us finally rest. By 9am this morning we were dismissed to come back home, where I once again find myself confined to my own, comfy, fluffy bed. <br />
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We aren't out of the woods, yet. We still have a long way to go, but the fear of a C-section and having a 33 week old preemie is behind us, we think. Tomorrow I will return to Grove General for another non-stress test and will, hopefully, be able to return to my own comfy bed. Although, I have to say, knowing that Cole's heart rate is stable with each and every contraction by being hooked up to the monitor is somewhat comforting. We are thankful for each day that Cole continues his stay with Hotel Mommy, but we are really hoping to get to 35 weeks, which is 11 more days. <br />
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To say that we have been overwhelmed by all of your well wishes and prayers is the understatement of the year. I know, without a doubt, that we are literally being prayed for by hundreds of people and those prayers are what made our little boy make a turn for the better last night. Please, please continue to pray for us and his safe delivery once he is ready. While going through this "interruption" or little trial, has been stressful, we have felt immense blessings. Thank you all so much! We wouldn't have gotten this far without all of you. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11059554107552160674noreply@blogger.com5