The Weber's

Z man!

2012-01-27T05:00:00.000-05:00

His laughter.

His humor.

His silly grin.

His "cheese face."

His "grr... face."

His love for his "spicy friend."
This boy makes every day more fun. Every day more interesting. And even a little more exhausting. But I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Now that's what we call...

2012-01-09T12:59:00.003-05:00

~~classic~~ "old school" Gymboree!

For those of you that don't know, I am a Gymboree addict. Like my heart gets excited over Gymboree clothes. I used to work at Gymboree in my college days and actually managed a store before Andy and I got married.

Most people during their engagement would store up household items, things for their marriage, etc. Not this girl! I stored up baby clothes in my "hope chest." An array of sizes and things for both boys and girls. Things that striked my fancy and things that were so darn cheap I just couldn't resist. Well this is one of those sets...hat, blankie, penguin oufit and of course bib to match!

Today I don't buy nearly as much Gymboree as I would like to. Every now and then we get a piece here and a piece there. My little ones are mostly clothed in Circo (Thank you Target!), Sonoma (Gotta love Kohls!), and anything we have been blessed with by others! Funds these days aren't splurgable (I made that word up if is is not one already!) like they used to be but trust me if they were...whew! My littles would be dressed head to toe!

Now I just get overly excited when we receive Gymboree hand me downs (Stacee B...you blessed my socks off...watch out Spring weather!!) and when "old school pieces" work out and fit in the season they are supposed to! Heck, I'm one of those moms that would even love Gymboree gift certificates for my own birthday present! Sick, I know!!

Oh...Gymboree!

Friday Feelings

2012-01-06T06:00:00.002-05:00

The other day I was downloading pictures from the camera to the computer. After they were all downloaded, I went through and organized them. I put some in "Holidays," others in the "Family" folder. As I was dumping files, I came across this one that was tucked away in the wrong assigned folder. As I stared at it I started to think.

I thought about how much Madelyn has changed. How fast these last 6 months have gone by. I thought about how I miss how she could fit all snuggly in her sling. And then I thought about what made me stand in front of the mirror that day. Why did I want to remember that moment?

Did I want to remember what my days consisted of? Did I want to remember what she looked like all snuggled up? Did I want to look back and laugh at the size of her paci on her face? What was it that made me "click" at that moment?

And as I look at that picture now I am so glad I took it. Still not sure why I did. But I want to remember the moments of carrying my little ones. It makes me think I'm glad I "click" a lot of moments as I watch my little ones grow. I am glad I "click" my mommy moments with them. So this Friday, I think I will go "click" away some more...

6 months - still kinda new

2012-01-03T15:17:00.006-05:00

This month has brought many new things/changes from sleep to food to sickness to nicknames to milestones. Madelyn is getting so big!

She is in love...down right smitten with her brother and sister. They can bring a smile to her face in a instant as well as precious giggles! She is perfectly content cuddling up with Katelyn and hanging out.
Well, until she discovers that she can pull at her face and play with her hair, nose, and anything else she can reach.

Katelyn calls her "Maddy" pretty much all the time now. Daddy often refers to her as "sweet tart" and mommy calls her "sweet pea" a lot. Zachary usually calls her "sissy" the most. But no matter what she is called she always looks at us with a giant smile and knows that she is the center of attention.

Her favorite Christmas present was her baby from brother and sister. She loves to kiss it, stare at her face, talk to her, and squeeze her to death.

Madelyn is getting close to sitting up on her own without any support. Right now she sits somewhat hunched over and tends to lean a little but she is so close!

She loves being able to sit and play so I have a feeling once she is able to sit fully on her own she will love it!

This month she has discovered that when the rest of the family is eating she should be too. She likes to eat solid foods (small pieces of whatever we are eating) more so than baby food. Her favorite baby food is bananas. Pears are mommy and daddy's least favorite (although she loves them) due to diaper explosions. And peas would probably be her favorite veggie so far. She still nurses every 3 hours even if she has had food to eat though. She is a scheduled girl!

She has improved in her sleep habits this month. Again...all about the schedule. She falls asleep on her own 100% of the time. Never any rocking, nursing, or bouncing needed to get her to fall asleep. She has a favorite blankie (ALREADY!) and as long as you lay that next to her with her paci she falls right to sleep. She goes down for the night between 7-7:30 and sleeps till 3 a.m. to 5 a.m. She nurses and then goes back down till 7:30 a.m. She is up for the day at 7:30, nurses and then eats breakfast between 8:00-9:00. After breakfast goes back down for morning nap. Naps usually last a minimum of about an hour now. Sometimes she will sleep for 2 1/2 hours though. She takes 3 naps a day (9 a.m./ 12:30 p.m./ 4:00 p.m.).

She hasn't said any definitive sounds yet. I have a feeling "dada" will be coming first this time("Mama" was the first for the other two) because she babbles and it sounds pretty close to coming out.

Her tongue is a favorite this month! She loves to chew on it, blow raspberries, and babble with it.

She just got over ear infection #2...hoping we aren't going down this path again but it is definitely a "mommy gene" so time will tell.

Madelyn is the slowest to get her teeth. Nothing yet but she sure is trying!

In the mean time, lots of bubbles and drool!

At her 6 month visit, Maddy weighed 15 lb. 2.5 oz (still tracking right at 25%) and was 26.5 in. (70%).

Happy 6 months baby girl!

Smile!

2012-01-03T10:07:00.006-05:00

The downfall of always being behind the camera is I very rarely get in shots with my family. So I was very excited when a friend, Analee, said she would capture some pictures of my family. We met her at a beautiful location just 2 minutes north of our house and she captured smiles all around!

Andy and I cherish this picture! Oh how I love this man and look forward to growing old together!

Madelyn wasn't too sure of Mrs. Analee behind the camera but she would smile for us on the side. I just love those sweet cheeks!

My sweet boys!

Another favorite...

Someone please tell me when did she grow up so fast?!

This one too...

If I had to choose one word to sum up this picture it would be...BLESSED!
Thank you Lord for my beautiful family! And thank you Analee for capturing smiles for us to hold on to forever!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-21T08:23:00.001-05:00

Spotlight on Katelyn

2011-12-19T20:21:00.005-05:00

Our toothless girl is getting so big! She has now lost three teeth and is about to have a toothless smile on top as her other front tooth is getting wiggly. Her smile is changing and although it is so sweet it makes me a tad bit sad to see her getting so big!

Katelyn is officially half way through her first grade year. She enjoys school and especially loves her teacher again this year. We have truly been blessed by wonderful teachers and a great school for her. She is reading well and continues to love math.

She is a great student and is recognized by her teachers for her behavior. She was chosen by her teacher to receive the "Character Achievement Award" for caring this past track. Her teacher wrote "Katelyn is a student who is always looking out for others. Whether we are in the classroom or outside on the playground, Katelyn will make sure that other's needs are met before her own. With her sweet smile and caring heart, Katelyn makes a great friend." We couldn't be more proud of our sweet girl!

She has become quite the artist/journalist lately. She is always writing or drawing. She also loves to "teach" her brother or have a pretend classroom in her bedroom.

She started taking Gymnastics 2 months ago at a local gym (Young's Gym). She LOVES it! It is one of the highlights to her week. She is in a "Super Tots" class which consists of 5 and 6 year old girls. I am so proud at how hard she concentrates and what a great job she is doing in class. This week was parent observation and we went in and were able to watch all she has learned in her short 2 month timeframe. SO PROUD OF HER!

Here is a spotlight on her gymnastics skills that she has learned so far:

We couldn't be any more in love and proud of our biggest girl! She is a sweet girl who loves others deeply. We are so proud of her achievements but more than that we are so proud of who she is. She is becoming more inquistive about all God has for her and how much He loves her. Her heart is becoming soft to His ways and we see that she is desiring to want to follow and obey Him. We continue to pray that she will become a godly woman who fears the Lord greatly.

Wordless Wednesday- Need a Little Help Here!

2011-12-14T12:55:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-07T05:00:00.001-05:00

The Tree

2011-12-05T05:00:00.001-05:00

As I glanced at the calendar this morning with all the Christmas festivities/activities ahead of us I became excited. It kicked off last weekend for us as a family as we prepared our home together for Christmas. Decorating the tree, bringing out the nativities, hanging the stockings, pulling out the Christmas stories, and much more.

I set up our tree early last week so that over the weekend the kids could help decorate. As I stood there bending every branch, fluffing it up, and getting it ready, my favorite Christmas memory came flooding back as it does every year.

If I think back to all my Chrismas memories as a child there is one that stands out far above all the rest. It doesn't involve Santa. Not a toy. Or cookie baking. Not our annual story reading. It doesn't even involve the nativity. It involves the tree.

It brings me back to just miles from my home now. It brings me back to the days of Seminary as a kid. It takes me back to West Pine Street.

Some of the details are getting foggier as years go by. We didn't have a tree for Christmas. And I think we couldn't just go buy a real one because I am allergic to them. Our artificial tree was being stored at my grandmother's house in Maryland. So my mom made the best of the situation, as she is always so great at doing, and borrrowed one that the Seminary's doctors office behind us wasn't using.

So we had the tree but still no decorations. And mom and dad didn't want to spend money (which was already tight) to buy new ones since we did own them just miles away. We went out back and picked little red berries from the bushes. Popped some popcorn and strung them together. I remember sitting with my sister and stringing berry, popcorn, popcorn, berry. Over and over again.

(online source)

And it ended up being beautiful! Every year as I decorate my tree I remember back to the look of the popcorn and berries. But even more than the look I remember the sacrifice of my parents, the love poured into making the decorations, and the memory of doing it all as a family.

What's one of your favorite Christmas memories?

5 Months (still new)

2011-11-21T05:00:00.000-05:00

Baby Girl,

Well turning 5 months the week of Thanksgiving deserves nothing other than a fall, fancy tutu for your 5 month photo shoot! Thanks to Aunt Jenny for helping make you look fabulous! And don't worry...I didn't make you freeze your fanny off at the end of November. We had a crazy heat wave here in NC and enjoyed some warm 80 degree days last week.

You were so fun in the grass. So inquisitive. So calm.

You were not bothered by it a bit. Instead you just soaked in all that was going on around you in the beautiful fall air and watched the leaves fall. Oh, my sweet alfalfa girl! Your hair sticks up just like your sister's did. I tried to flatten it. Twice! But instead I decided this is how I want to remember you forever. And even with the crazy alfalfa look you are the cutest baby!

Oh that sweet chin and chubby cheeks! I could eat them up! Happy 5 months baby girl! How thankful I am for you!

Hello NC Fall!

2011-11-18T05:00:00.000-05:00

P-O-P!

2011-11-15T05:00:00.000-05:00

Sweet Sisters

2011-11-10T13:18:00.003-05:00

This picture melts my heart! Like literally makes me smile and say "awww" every time I see it!
Katelyn is such an A.M.A.Z.I.N.G big sister! She adores baby girl. Every day when she gets home from school the first thing she wants to do before getting her snack, playing with her favorite toys, or watching a show is pick up her girl!

She loves to hold Madelyn and now that she can do it on her own she thinks it is the coolest thing ever. They have a special bond already. Pretty much anyone can make Madelyn "light up" but she has a special look for her big sissy!

I love how much they love one another. I know the fights and sister rivalry will come soon enough but the underlying bond is what is so neat to watch as it develops even at this age.

Katelyn was beyond precious the other day. She said, "Mom, remember when you told me that we were having a baby and I wasn't super happy at first? Well, I feel really bad about that. Because (she started to tear up) Madelyn makes me so happy and I wouldn't trade her for anything!" MELT.MY.HEART!!

Sweet Sisters!

Wordless Wednesday-- What's on that cell phone?

2011-11-09T12:26:00.002-05:00

Morning Glory

2011-11-08T12:52:00.004-05:00

My dad has always joked and called my little ones "morning glories." They rise early and from the moment they wake up they are full speed. And 90% of the time they are pleasant, happy, and excited about what waits before them in the day.

Well, this little one lives up to the title as well...
She could have a rough nights sleep but no matter what she wakes content.

And for a good hour or more she will lay happily blowing bubbles, making raspberries, sucking her lip...

and talking away!

I just love my morning glories!! Well, I tend to love them more when we "spring forward" instead of "falling back!" Good morning 6 a.m!!

And just because these are too darn cute not to include...

Little Sister Mini Shoot

2011-11-07T19:49:00.004-05:00

" I see you behind there mommy!"
"Ooh, what was that?"

"rrrrrrrrrr, owwwwooooooo"

Come Rest

2011-11-04T08:59:00.009-04:00

For awhile now I have been struggling with the idea of resting. For me, as a mom/wife it is so easy to get consumed by all the things on my to-do list. You start at the top of the mountain at the beginning (of the week, month, or when there are only a few things on your to-do list) and the more that adds up the more you get pushed down into the valley only now you are unable to climb back to the top.

I have been consumed by the duties of my roles in our family (house work, mothering, etc.) and by my jobs/duties that I have taken on (working at church and photography to earn extra money). And yet I have neglected to take the time to REST which keeps me from giving my best.

And as a result, I have neglected the things that mean the most to me. My quality time with the Lord usually results in a small nugget here and there. My house is "clean" but no where near to my standards of making it a "haven" for my family. My children are taken care of but not receiving the "quality time" just quantity time. And my sweet husband gets the last of me (which is usually short in patience and not exuding any fruit of the Spirit) if there is anything left. And this isn't the way it should be.

I should not wake up in the morning already overwhelmed at what my day looks like before my feet hit the floor.

Last week I went over to a sweet friend's house and she shared a song with me that I had not heard yet and there it hit me. Like a ton of bricks. Across the head.

COME REST. This simple title rang through my ears and pierced my heart. I have been a Martha lately but I need to remember to stop and be Mary as well.

Lindsay McCaul (the author) describes the song as such:
"I wrote the song (“Come Rest”) with two of my good friends after I’d been thinking through (and being convicted by) the story of Martha & Mary in Luke 10. It struck me that maybe one of the most easily and often confused lines in the life of a believer (well…mine anyway) is that between self-reliance and setting aside the time to wait for strength from God. In the fast-paced culture we live in, taking time out of a hectic schedule to rest and spend time with God can easily be viewed as an unaffordable luxury! Subconsciously, some of us might even see it as a waste of the precious time we’ve been entrusted with. It seems so ridiculously, obviously backwards typing about it now, but I know I’ve definitely been guilty of this. We press on and push through our growing stress, anxiety and weariness, surviving on a slim weekend diet of time in the Word, all the while ignoring the invitation to trade our heavy burdens for rest for our souls (Matthew 11:28-30). Wow. I’ve subconsciously hailed and emulated Martha’s exhausting work ethic and shared in her incredulity at the Mary’s of today –the people who sit content at Jesus’ feet and unknowingly add fuel to the pride of my self-sufficiency. Man. It looks harsh now on paper, but this thought also hit me: God would never have extended an invitation that we didn’t desperately need to accept!

So, all that to say, Come Rest is my attempt at retelling Martha’s side of the story from my own perspective/experience. Hope it’s an encouragement to you today as you draw close to Jesus –His yoke is easy and His burden is so light."

Another friend wrote a beautiful post this week that was the second giant hit across the head for me as she shared about her need for rest as well. It was as if she was the fly riding my back that knew my every thought and feeling. Her words, "Nothing was set apart or sacred...time for reconnecting as husband and wife, family time, or time for renewing our intimacy with God" screamed from my inner being.

We go, go, go and yet we never stop to REST.

And so today I write for accountability that I am making some changes. Some of these changes will affect others--playdates, photography clients, and more. And I will share that later. But for now I am stopping to rest. Resting in my Lord. Making a Sabbath day. Set apart time. Asking Him for clarity in our lives. Asking for His direction. Basking in His goodness. Sitting at His feet. Content. Resting.

Watch Out...

2011-11-03T12:10:00.003-04:00

This Pirate means business!!

Wordless Wednesday- A Wet Halloween

2011-11-02T08:45:00.002-04:00

Lil' Punkin

2011-10-31T12:36:00.005-04:00

It was time...the tradition of the pumpkin costume continues.

We headed outside for the "fall photoshoot" in the costume all three kiddos have sported.
And Madelyn looked just as sweet as the other two.

She was intrigued by the grass as this was her first time playing in it. She pulled at it and tried to pick up leaves and then it happened...
Roll on...

over! Her first roll...and I caught it on camera!

Since then she was also learned the art of rolling from back to front (first time for her daddy!).

And just for fun...

The Pumpkin Comparison!

Thankful

2011-10-27T21:27:00.004-04:00

Today I am thankful for sweet friendships. Growing up I have never made a lot of close friendships because we moved so often. So I never had those friends that you made and kept all through your elementary school years till now. In fact I made friendships but kept them at arms length because you knew that after the move you wouldn't see each other or reconnect in the future (for many reasons). But I have to say that now in my adult years I have a few friendships that I know will last a lifetime. You know the cliche of "forever friends"--those are the kind I am talking about. And today I am grateful for a sweet friend who is like a sister to me.

We are so alike. We could finish each other's sentences. We know what the other is thinking. We have the same desire to love our Lord with all of our hearts and then love our family something fiercely right behind that. We long to be a helpmate to our hubbies and serve our family well. And yet we both mess up and can admit it especially to one another. We have the same sense of style. We both have a bit of OCD and are list makers. We have a little bit of a control issue especially when it comes to creating/making things. We love each others families as if they were our own.

In fact, our families love each other as if they were siblings. Our kids are the same ages (oldest are both 6, the middles are 3 1/2 and 4, and the youngest are a month apart). And they love each other to pieces. They play so well together and can't wait to see each other again even if it has only been a few days since they were together!

And we joke that one day we will be able to share photos like these at their weddings...

(Katelyn missed out on this particular afternoon because she was at school.)

Sarah, you are dear to me, sweet friend! I truly treasure you and thank the Lord for your sweet friendship. (Oh and girl, you've got some moves!)

Love,

Unprompted Storyhour

2011-10-25T05:00:00.000-04:00

It was the perfect Saturday morning. Crisp, cool fall weather, leaves covering the backyard, no hurry to wake up, nothing on the agenda for the majority of the day, big breakfast, and then to complete it all I walk in on this.

Saturday morning storytime!
The kids grabbed their library books and were reading away on my bed. I grabbed my camera to capture this quiet, sweet moment.

Love the perplexed look as she is sounding out the words...

and following along with his finger like he is in fact reading!

And then the sweet moment concluded with Zachary looking up at the camera saying, "Mom, why are you taking pictures? We are just reading!" HAHAHA!

MFW- 4 Months New

2011-10-24T13:06:00.007-04:00

Weight: 13 lbs (30%)

Height: 24.75" (40%)

HC: 39.9 cm (20%)

Sleep

She goes down for the night around 7:30-8:00 and sleeps until 1:30-2:00. She goes immediately back down and wakes between 4:30-5:00 for another feeding. But then sleeps until 8:00 in the morning after that. I wish we could break her of the 4:30-5:00 feeding but for now she is eating well, gaining weight, and since she goes back to sleep immediately it's not that bad.

She has two big naps during the day and several small in between. She had her first cold this last month so she has had a harder time staying asleep and we have had to "retrain" to lay down for sleep time. (Her congestion made it very difficult to lay flat.)

She is doing well with putting herself to sleep. As long as she has her blankie up close to her nose (which I HATE but...) she does well with cuddling up and going to sleep without needing to be bounced and rocked. However in the evenings she wants her cuddle time and will not go down without being loved on.

Feedings

13 lbs excites me! She is doing great staying right on track with her 30% gain. Our 0ther two always had a difficult time with breastfeeding and by this point we moved on to formula for different reasons for both. Their weight gain was small and was always the topic of conversation at the pediatrician visits. I am not against formula at all and know full well that breastfeeding isn't for all moms...been there, done that. But this time I wanted, no---more like determined to make it work. And the Lord has truly blessed me with the desires of my heart. Reflux hasn't interfered (like it did with Zachary) because we got it under control early. And not having to return back to work and having to pump like I did with Katelyn makes a difference. Baby girl and me are sticking it out and I am so proud of her. She is a great nurser and has been from the start. Although we did have a picky time there preferring one side over the other. But we worked through it together.

She is eating every 3 hours with the exception of her long stretch at night.

Clothing

This week we officially moved her up to 3-6 months. She could have stayed in 0-3 for waist but her arms and legs were getting way too long. She is in a size 2 diaper. Too many leaks out the sides to stay in a "1" although the waist band is pretty big in a "2" and you have to make sure it is pretty snug.

Other Milestones

Loves to coo

Makes raspberries

Drools excessively

Starting to giggle/laugh

Holds her head up

Supports weight on her legs

Recognizes mommy and daddy's voice and touch

Tracks and follows objects

SMILES in social settings

Words to sum up Madelyn this month:

Very alert, very content, bubble blower/drooler, smiley, happy go lucky

and like always

A BLESSING FROM THE LORD!

The Perfect Souvenir Made

2011-10-24T05:00:00.002-04:00

When we made the decision to visit NYC for our birthdays I immediately knew something that I wanted to do while we were there. It wasn't to visit the Statue of Liberty or other historical landmarks and read and learn about history. It wasn't to eat at all of the fabulous places that we did (although that was great). The one thing I wanted to do was to create a souvenir that would allow me to remember our 30th Birthday trip for years to come. I have been wanting to create this for our home for quite some time and I knew NYC would be the perfect place to create the project.

My goal was to find all of the letters in our last name in the great architecture around the city.

The "W" was found in the iron gate outside St. Joseph's Cathedral.

The first "E" was found in Battery Park.

The "B" was in the iron wall at the Brooklyn Bridge Subway station. (Those are the Subway tracks faded out in the background.)

The second "E" was found on a giant building in Wall Street area.

And lastly, the "R" was on a park bench in the Robert F. Wagner Jr. Park.

It was so fun walking the city looking for what we thought would make the perfect letter for each letter in our name. We took several of each not knowing at the end which ones we would use and which would be our favorite.

Here's where I have to admit that my husband is AMAZING at this! I thought I would be the one with the "photographer's eye" that could easily find the letters created in the architecture around us. Boy, was I wrong!! Andy could find letters so easily and would have to stand there and point them out patiently until I caught on. We make a great team...finder and photographer!

The morning we were leaving and headed back to pick up the kids we stopped at a GIANT IKEA! I so wish we had one of these close to us! We searched and purchased what we wanted to use to frame our pictures. We bought individual black frames for each letter and then a shelf to house them all. LOVE IT!!

And so you can see what all the letters look like together...

The Perfect Souvenir Made!

NYC Fun

2011-10-21T05:00:00.002-04:00

Divine, delicious, one of a kind!

This next stop was probably on the top of my list for a must visit.

We waited in the line wrapped around the building to get into this delectable place!

And it was SO WORTH IT! For all of you that know me well, you know I love me some sweets! I literally could have stayed in the bakery for hours just watching them go to town icing hundreds of cupcakes and smelling the yummy goodness! This tiny bakery was surreal! However they move you out rather quickly because the line is long so...I savored the smells and moved on my way.

I had heard about these amazing cupcakes from several people, tourists and locals, and couldn't wait to get my hands and mouth on one! It was totally worth $3.00!
Vanilla (yellow cake) with buttercream icing...boring choice to some but if anyone could do a simple flavor justice, it was this place!

And let me tell you--I have NEVER had a cupcake that tasted so rich, creamy, and DELICIOUS!
Totally wish I would have spend $6.00 and got another!

Next stop--An iconic toy store...

You guessed it-- FAO Schwarz! I just love how Madelyn was staring at the stuffed animal and let me tell you that the man dressed up as a soldier LOVES his job! He was the sweetest toy soldier I have ever met...well, the only one but adorable none the less!

We went to the giant toystore and enjoyed walking floor after floor seeing the giant stuffed animals and all the things that FAO Schwarz is known for. Including...

the giant piano from "Big," the 1988 movie with Tom Hanks!

And because Madelyn needs to look back on some memories from this trip (since she was the lucky one who got to come along), we made sure she played the piano as well!

And let me tell you, this little gal can get some stares! We think she is adorable but we are a little biased for sure. But a little southern gal with a big bow on her head gets more than 100+ comments a day in NYC (yes we started counting after the first 30 or so) as she was carried around on the front of us just gazing out. People would stop us to say how beautiful she was, foreigners would stop to take her picture, others would hold doors for us, give up subway seats, and were so kind wherever we went. Definitely not what you would expect in NYC! So my advice to you, take a cute baby with a big bow if you plan to visit. Works like a charm!

Our two days were packed with fun. We definitely see how you could easily spend a week visiting the massive city but if you did you would be flat broke as well. At the end of each day, our feet ached. Ok, that's an understatement...our legs, calves, hips, and feet ached. We have never done that much walking in one day! From 9 or so in the morning till 9 at night we walked, walked, walked!

So seeing this site greet us at the end of the long day was BLISS! From walking from upper Manhattan to the tip of Battery Park was exhausting and on day 2, I was elated to reach the Ferry station!

Perfect trip, perfect company, perfect way to welcome our 30's!Up next--our last NYC installment! The best souvenir ever!

More NYC

2011-10-20T05:00:00.000-04:00

Day 2 definitely consisted of good eating! Andy wanted to try what all the locals eat on their lunch break. A street vendor cart was his lunch choice for the afternoon. He chose a lamb gyro...
and enjoyed every meaty bite...just look at that spit!
We worked our way up towards Central Park to see something that Katelyn would be mesmerized over. The Americal Girl store is definitely a sight to see.
Hundreds of dolls and every accessory you could imagine was in this 3 story store. Along with every little girl whining and pleading for mom and dad to buy just one more thing to go along with their very expensive dolls. I am grateful that Target's "Our Generation" brand is plenty for our girl.

As we walked around we took in store after store along with the magnificent sights of the beautiful architecture. This was just one of the many cathedrals around NYC.

Next stop was something that we did actually spend money on to see. Andy agreed to do something not on the top of his list because he knew it meant so much to me. We went on the "Top of the Rock." We went up the 67 floors in 43 seconds to see all of NYC from above. It was beautiful and every photographer's dream. The sights were amazing--like the cathedral from above.

To be able to see and take it all in from above was definitely worth the money in my book.
Central Park looked so big in comparison to the map. You can see where the "Black Eyed Peas" were setting up their stage in the middle for their concert that night.
And to look down and see how the people and cars looked like ants and matchbox vehicles was so cool!

But my favorite sight was looking out across at the monumental landmark such as the Empire State Building!

And again, wrong lens to have attached when handing off your camera to someone else but you get what you get...
But my favorite picture and probably one of the most meaningful to me from this entire trip is this next one...

You see my husband is deathly afraid of heights. Like I mean white in the face, panicked look afraid. And yet he agreed to go to the "Top of the Rock" because it meant so much to me. Most of the time he stood in the middle area where you cannot see over the edge. However, at the very end, before we headed back down, he asked if I got all the pictures I wanted to get. I took about 75 pictures but there was one more that I really wanted. I said "yes" but he could tell my hesitation. I told him that I would love to have one of him with the Empire State Building behind him and he so sweetly said,"ok." He slowly backed up against the glass, not looking down and allowed me to take the shot. This was huge and meant more to me than he realized! I love that man!!!

Great memories made and it's still not over yet...my favorite souvenir made, yes made, is up next!

NYC Continued

2011-10-19T05:00:00.003-04:00

One of our top things to do in NYC was to hit some key "eats." One of which was Junior's Cheesecake! Andy LOVES cheesecake so we wanted to eat up some of the best!

So we stopped before lunch (because we could!!) and ate near Times Square & the Theater District.

We decided to split a piece and Andy got to choose...Raspberry Swirl! It was yummy! It definitely was more of a cheesy piece versus a creamy style. And most definitely it was RICH!
We planned out all the things we wanted to see and circled the map with all the key spots to stop and visit the night before at the hotel. We tried to use the Subway only as necessary since they no longer have a "day pass" and you have to pay for each ride or for a week ticket (which seemed like too much for what we needed).

We would walk to certain sites if they were within 10 blocks or so of where we were. We were pretty good with navigating the subway (growing up near D.C. and riding the subway often with my family definitely was an advantage) and mapping out our routes. However, at one point we got a little turned around.

So we decided to cut through a side, back street to save some time. It happened to be in the Theater District.

We were weaving in and out of the set-up crews and their equipment waiting to create the stages for the productions later that evening (Friday). We were reading all of the signs and show titles to see what productions, musicals, and plays were showing. I would have LOVED to go see a show while we were there but having a 3 month old with us hindered that.

We talked about which shows we would have chosen and I talked about which ones would probably have been good because of the title, actors, etc. All the while as we weaved in and out of production crews apologizing for being in the way.

One of the shows I pointed out to Andy was "The Mountaintop." I said, "I bet that is a good show because it has big names in it, Samuel L. Jackson and Angela Bassett." I had no idea what the play was about (now after looking it up--it is about the reimagining of events the night before the assassination of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.). After saying that I looked down and saw two men sitting on a fire hydrant outside the back door of the theater to which I said, "Andy, oh my goodness that is Samuel L. Jackson!" We stopped and stared (nondiscreetly of course) and Andy looked up and down at the billboard sign and then to Mr. Jackson's face. We then looked at each other in disbelief that this celebrity was sitting in a back street on a fire hydrant...just didn't seem to fit! And we agreed that we had to go ask for a picture.

We walked up to him and Andy asked, "Excuse me sir, are you Samuel L. Jackson?" He replied, "Yes." Andy said, "Do you mind if I get a picture with you?" To which he responded with the most straight face, "Why?" Andy at that point was thrown a little and said, "Because we like your work." He agreed and I snapped the shot. Andy thanked him and shook his hand and Mr. Jackson's whole demeanor changed. He smiled very big and very kindly said, "No problem!"

It was definitely a great memory and we were so excited we decided to take that back street!

As we turned the corner, we came across the part that everyone normally walks down and we found Andy's legend of a name...

Practically everyone who meets Andy for the first time and finds out his last name is Weber (but with only 1 B) asks "Is your middle name Lloyd?" HAHAHAHAHAHA! It is a running joke that everyone thinks they are the first to ask. So we thought we would at least photograph him with his famous name! (And no his middle name is Scott for those that are wondering!)

And I, of course, had to pose with one of my most favorite musicals/show...

And yes, I did sing "I will follow Him" for quite some time after that in my head!

We came to the conclusion throughout our two days that one of the most difficult things to do in NYC is breastfeed. It is very difficult to find a quiet, semi private spot to feed your little one. And when she decides that she hates nursing covers it made it even more difficult! I won't go through naming all the places I did find but this sight had to be my favorite spot. We went down to Battery Park and I fed her on a park bench with this view...

Our favorite local restaurant that we found was...

They had amazing pizza as well as other yummy Italian cuisines. We actually ate here twice. Once for lunch with every Wall street employee on their lunch break (BUSY!!!) and at dinner late at night (much quieter!).

As we walked around the Wall Street area, we worked our way around the protests that were (and still are) going on and visited the 911 Memorial site.

We were unable to actually go in and see the memorial because visitor passes are required. You either have to get them over a month or more in advance online or there are a few available each day but they are gone within the first 15-30 mins of the information center opening. So needless to say, we didn't have passes.

We did go in and see items recovered from Ground Zero as well as the plans for the memorial in the Information Center.

It was all very moving and surreal to see especially since we both saw it a few months after the attacks had happened.

This next picture is a piece of steel that one of the construction workers had cut out during the clearing stages.

After we visited the 911 Memorial Information Center, we walked to find the fire station across the street from where the Twin Towers were--Engine Co. 10, the first responders. This to me was the most moving and seemed to bring great emotion to people all around us.

The fire station is now closed and is the site of the new museum.

Although it was not as silent around this area, as it was right after attacks when we visited, this area was definitely not as "busy" as other areas around NYC.

10 years later and it was still just as powerful and moving to see. Maybe one day we will get to see the actual memorial.

Not finished yet...more NYC to come!

30th Birthday NYC Adventure

2011-10-18T10:26:00.006-04:00

At the end of September, Andy and I went on a 30th birthday adventure! We had set aside a week to go do something for our birthdays and were planning on taking a mini vacation just the two of us. (Well, and Madelyn since I am her only food source!)

Plans changed as life throws us curve balls and we ended up taking two days to get away and spent the rest of the time in Buffalo seeing his family since they haven't been able to come meet Madelyn with all the health issues going on.

But those two days in NYC were jam packed and we made great memories together!

So to sum up our trip and hundreds of pictures, I have narrowed it down to some favorites to remember our time together celebrating the BIG 3-0!

We stayed in Elizabeth, NJ just across the river and drove 20 minutes each day to catch the Staten Island Ferry. It cost us $20 between tolls and parking each day but the ferry was free and so fun to ride over and take in the sights. And it definitely saved us from having to ride the train (which ended up having mechanical issues the two days we were there) and doing the cab thing in the city!
The best part of the ferry ride was approaching one of the landmark sites of the USA! Katelyn begged me to come back with a picture for her so I made sure to push (literally) my way to the outside of the deck to capture the beautiful site of the Statue of Liberty!

The bad part of having to change lenses on a moving ferry is that you don't have time to do so before you ask someone to snap a picture for you...lesson learned--throw the point and shoot in the bag as well!) But you see it in the background...

But that zoom lens was worth it...I got the shot for my big girl! Hello, Miss. Liberty!

Andy and I have both been to NYC but Andy had not been to the busy iconic part--TIMES SQUARE!

To see his face was priceless--a memory engrained in my mind!

We made sure to hit the stores we wanted but couldn't leave without being mom and dad! We made sure to visit the Toys R Us and M& M store to see things the kids would love to.

We knew Zachary would love this in Toys R Us!

And Katelyn got a mini version of this gal for her souvenir from the M&M store.

In the middle of Times Square there was a giant screen that showed the street sights (above the Forever 21 store).

And every few minutes they would stop advertising and show LIVE images of the street.

Can you "I Spy" Andy, Pam and Madelyn?

It was fun to find things that seemed out of place. Like the police station in the middle of the street...

But we loved the Subway station in Times Square and wish every Subway station around NYC was this bold and visible!

And I learned that the best pictures are sometimes taken in the middle of the streets as you play chicken with taxi cabs!

Stop back by because there is plenty more of NYC to come!

Treasures

2011-10-14T08:28:00.010-04:00

Today, my heart is heavy for a sweet family whose 3 year old son went home to be with Jesus this week. his week. This morning they are saying goodbye to his earthly body. This afternoon, we plan to attend, along with hundreds of others, a memorial service to celebrate this little hero's life. Because after all that is what he is. He lived a short life that had more of an impact on those around him than many of us will impact over the course of our entire lives.

This week I was contacted by some friends, putting together the memorial service, and they requested a picture that I took of Paxton last fall. His mom, Christi, wants it to be shared at the service today. So I accessed the external hard drive to find the original. And as I was searching for it I went back through the "SOOC" file that is created with so many photo shoots. Straight Out of Camera (SOOC) pictures that the family NEVER sees. In my eyes I don't feel like they are "photo worthy" or the quality I would like the family to have so they never get edited. And 99.9% of the time, once the family has received their CD of pictures they get deleted off my hard drive since I just don't have the space. Well, not this time. For some reason after the Seneri's photo shoot I never went back and deleted their SOOC shots.

So I started to flip through and my eyes started to tear and my heart was full as I looked at face after face of sweet Paxton. Pictures that his mama and daddy have never seen. And then right there I knew I have another project to add to my list. To go back and edit those pictures that will be a treasure to his family.

Pictures like this...

There are many others but this next one is one of my absolute favorites.

Why? Because this is the first time that I have allowed a little one to hold my camera and capture a picture. He had my heart strings for sure! I wanted him to warm up to me and the camera and so I decided to let him be the photographer. Out of all the surroundings he could have taken a picture of he decided to take a picture of his big brother! Such sweet love!

So this is what I can the "Paxton Original Masterpiece":

Paxton was a treasure! He captured your heart in an instant. Today so many will celebrate his precious life. No more sorrow and no more pain! Today, we celebrate that he is in the arms of Jesus!

Happy 30th Birthday!

2011-10-11T05:00:00.001-04:00

There is no one else that I could imagine walking through life together with than this man...

He is my one and only.
One of a kind.
He makes me happy.
He brings me joy.
He gives me butterflies 7+ years later.
I am blessed.
Beyond blessed!

Happy 30th Birthday to the man I love waking up to every day and falling asleep next to every night! I cherish you more than words could ever say!

Mission 'Not' Accomplished

2011-10-07T12:11:00.004-04:00

Last night, I stood at her door misty eyed after I did the deed of moving our little girl from our room to her crib. She has been residing with us in our room for the last 3 1/2 months in the bassinet of the pack n play.

Well, kinda. If I was totally honest I would say she has resided in the bassinet for the first part of the night and then she got the luxury of moving to our bed. Partly because mommy was lazy after her middle of the night feedings and partly because she loves to be close to us. Can we say third child much? (We never let that fly with the first two!)

So last night she had her last feeding around 8:30p.m. and down she went into her room. And she lasted there until 3:00 a.m. AND I GAVE IN!!

She mirrors Zachary (when he was a baby) exactly when it comes to sleep habits. In the middle of the night she is done with her deep REM sleep and from 3-6 a.m. she is restless. Stirring, desiring her paci to sleep, and just plain restless. So she got her way and came in our room to snuggle and sleep on her favorite thing.

You see, there is also a culprit to this problem...the BOPPY! With her reflux she likes to sleep elevated. And who can blame her loving the soft, cushy feeling of a pillowy boppy under her head. She sleeps best when she is propped up on it. I wish I would have never started this because now it is a habit. And yes, for all you moms gasping, I know the label clearly states "Do not allow baby to sleep in this pillow." Well, I don't technically allow "in this pillow." I allow "on it."

This monster of a problem only got bigger when we went on vacation for 9 days! She got to sleep with us ALL NIGHT LONG and on the boppy sandwiched right between us. Pure luxury for this girl!

So all this to say...night 1 in her room--MISSION NOT ACCOMPLISHED!

But look at this sweet face...
How could you not want to snuggle her?

Cup Runneth Over

2011-10-06T10:14:00.005-04:00

Do they fight? Yes, they are siblings.

Do they instigate and pick at one another? Of course.

Do they always use kind words and actions towards their siblings? No, not always.

Do they play together well? Yes!

Do they care for and protect each other? You betcha!

Do they love and adore one another? ABSOLUTELY!
Moments like these when I catch all three hanging out together and loving on one another makes my heart overfill.

I look at my three blessings and my cup truly runneth over!

Reach

2011-10-05T05:00:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was the first time Madelyn finally started to interact with her toys and reach to play. She would typically just coo and talk but now the real fun has begun! It is hard to believe she is just 2 weeks shy of being 4 months old.
She is full of cuddles...but who are we kidding, she is full of lots of bubbles too!

And just for a closer look...Can we say drool much?

It's so fun to watch her concentrate and play with her hands now.

Almost 4 months and SO MUCH FUN!

More Incredible Gifts

2011-09-26T05:00:00.000-04:00

The next sweet gift was from my hubby and is one I will cherish for years to come for sure. (Our big gift to one another is a trip to NYC to celebrate our 30th birthdays since we turn 30 a month apart. We are headed there at the end of the week!)

So to do something special and yet inexpensive for my special day, he compiled (and decopauged I might add) on canvas thirty things he loves about me:

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

Andy Weber,

I couldn't imagine spending life with anyone else by my side! Thank you for spending your life with me and blessing me day after day with your love!

Love,

Incredible Gifts

2011-09-23T05:00:00.000-04:00

My 30th Birthday brought incredible heartfelt gifts from friends and family. Gifts that I will treasure for years to come. Words and actions that struck deep and made me realize how blessed I am to have such dear people who love me so.

So today I share a gift from my big sister. A gift that came via email that made me laugh till I cried and cried till I sobbed...LOVE YOU, JEN-JEN!!

30 Memories in 30 Years!

#1- playing Miss America in our backyard with our shirts tucked in all sexy like ;)
#2- Space Camp under our beds
#3- Sitting on opposite couches in the townhouse and laughing at each other while Mom yelled at us for just beating the crap out of each other and making Mom even more mad.
#4- You tormenting me with worms and me tormenting you with locust shells.
#5- Us playing with Becky and Mae and James and Corrie. :)
#6- You always beat me at Super Mario and man that drove me crazy! (still does)
#7- Playing in Michael Lopera’s backyard and us sitting in skunk spray. Ugh.
#8- Throwing magnolia pods in the street and having the cops run over them in Wake Forest.
#9- Watching Father of the Bride so many times we broke the VHS and then we freaked out that Mom and Dad would kill us when they got back.
#10- Riding our bikes or walking to the gas station on the corner in Erie and getting Little Debbies.
#11- Our dance routines in the parsonage and us poking a hole in the blinds with the pointer while doing said dance routines.
#12- Buying you a Winnie The Pooh sweatshirt at the Disney Store because I had enough money from my job and I was so excited I could afford that and buy it for you.
#13- Me sleeping in your bed when Mom and Dad would go out of town because I was scared to death even though I was the big sister.
#14- Our butter knife fight in the parsonage. I bet the stain was there for years afterwards!
#15- Going with you to your hair appointment for prom while I walked the streets around the hair salon trying to put myself in labor.
#16- How excited you were when I had Abs and how nice you were to me and her even though I know it probably hurt a whole lot when I became preggers and left home. My favorite picture ever is of you and her with your shades on singing in her little microphone.
#17- Praying and praying that you would break up with Daniel and give this guy named Andy in Buffalo a chance. Cause I really like him and I still do.
#18- When you tried to call me about your proposal. We still had dial-up that blocked phone calls while you were on internet. You tried forever until you got me. I’m glad you didn’t give up cause it was so fun to hear how excited you were.
#19- Watching you walk down the aisle at your wedding. You were so happy and so pretty.
#20- When you held Adam for the first time and had Ms. Katelyn in your belly. It was so cool to see you holding my son and you getting so close to meeting the little one inside of you!
#21- When I met Katelyn for the first time. You looked so tired and so overwhelmed but I knew you would be a great Mom and you proved me right.
#22- The day you and I talked and you were on your way to a Dr. appointment. I was standing in Barnes and Nobles and you were so excited to get to hear baby Weber #2. Later that day Mom called and told me what I already somehow knew, baby Weber 2 was in Heaven waiting to meet us all someday.
#23- When you surprised me at Thanksgiving with Katelyn’s “I’m a Big Sister” shirt! I could not have been more happy for you!
#24- The texting/phone calls we had before our husbands both came home and told us our Mom had cancer.
#25- Watching you sacrifice and give up so much to help out Mom and Dad. You truly were my hero.
#26- The whole cancer experience, the waiting room, the nurses’ brownies, the telephone, Teddy, Dad and his giggles, Dad not handling the discussion of our lady bits very well. I could not have ever made it through that week without you!
#27- Not hearing God Bless the USA on the 4th of July when we came to visit. Seriously I still don’t think I am over it.
#28- Our strategy of what we should wear when we go to campfires at the property.
#29- You asking me to be in the delivery room with you was the biggest deal ever.
#30-Watching Miss M make her entrance into this world. Worrying about the two of you and wondering if she would ever come out. Being so deliriously happy for you and Andy. Being so in awe of how amazing and perfect she was. Being so incredibly grateful that my sister liked me enough to let me share such a special event in her life.

Pamela Jean Whitworth Weber, I am blessed to call you my sis. You my dear are so important to me and I couldn’t imagine any of my life without you there. I love you fiercely! You are an incredible woman and I am so, so, so, lucky to be your sister. Welcome to the 30’s! I have no doubt you will do them well! And in 30 more years when I do this again I can’t wait to look back and see what memories we have made together.

HAPPY 30th Pammy Jean!!!

All my Love,
Jen-Jen
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jen- Jen,

My life is better because you are in it! I couldn't ask for a better big sis than you! Thank you for loving me fiercely. I couldn't imagine growing up and not having all these special memories. I am blessed to have been born last...because that means I have you to look up to!

LOVE YOU ALWAYS!

Pammy Jean

Big 3-0 Continued...

2011-09-22T05:00:00.000-04:00

Can you guess where we went?
Andy surprised me by making a reservation for our whole family at the tea room for the next morning (Saturday). The kids were SO excited to get to be a part of this and go to a "real" tea party. Even Zachary wanted to sport the look--great bribery pictures in years to come!

Andy had flowers sent there to put on our table prior to our arrival. He truly thought of every detail to make the morning special.

It was a birthday celebration I will never forget. Especially since my hubby planned it all out and did something that he wouldn't typically do...like sit in a tea room!

It was a 30th birthday I will never forget. And I am so very blessed to have such a wonderful husband and beautiful family!

MFW : 3 months new

2011-09-21T05:00:00.001-04:00

Sweet Madelyn,

Happy 3 months today, baby girl! I cannot believe that you are 3 months already. Time is truly flying by and although I want you to stay little, I am loving every new stage that you go through.

You are such a happy and pleasant girl and you bring so much joy to all who meet you. Your sweet smile is contagious and lights up a room. Actually you don't even have to smile and you light up the room.

And even though your sleep patterns remain the same and we are up a couple times a night, I treasure every moment I get to hold and bond with you. After all, mommy is beyond used to the sleep deprivation.

You are still eating so well and are such a scheduled girl. I never need to look at my watch as I know when three hours has passed by.

You rarely cry unless you are hungry or sleepy and cannot get settled. Most of the time we just see lots of happy faces. You have become more dependent on your paci this last month but we are still so thankful that you don't have to have it to sleep and there is no need to search for it in the middle of the night.
I love how you know your place so well in our family and love each family member who talks to you. You love smiling at your brother and sister and they are still quite smitten with you, especially when you coo and talk! Your favorite sounds are "oooh and ohhhh."

And even though I don't get everything I need to get done throughout my days, I wouldn't trade the fact that you love to be cuddled and held!

I am absolutely addicted to kissing those perfect little lips. But I have a feeling one day that daddy is going to have to have a conversation with you about waiting to wear lipstick until your older.

And although I struck out again with all three littles getting daddy's baby blues, I am completely enamoured by the beautiful color. (And just so I remember in the future--those my girl are unedited!)
The last three months have been nothing but perfect with having you in our lives! And although I don't think I could love you any more than I do today, I am sure next month will bring a deeper meaning to the word.

Love you baby girl,
Mommy

The Big 3-0!

2011-09-20T08:20:00.000-04:00

This was probably the most anticipated birthday for me. On Sept. 9th, I turned the BIG 3-0! And let me tell ya, I have been looking forward to it.

Not really for one reason in particular but just for the fact that life just keeps getting better everyday!

My birthday started off with a favorite breakfast from McDonald's--sausage gravy and biscuits. Andy got up super early to run up the street to grab breakfast and still make it back in time to get Katelyn up for school.

I woke up to two very excited little ones ready to wish me a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY and we all enjoyed breakfast together.

The day was quiet and normal with my two littles at home and then I met Andy at work for my birthday adventure. He gave me clues as to where we were going and the first stop was to drop off the older two to a babysitter. We don't do this often so it was nice to have a night out with just hubby (and of course lil miss who depends on me for food supply).

Our next stop was a place that I have wanted to go back to for awhile now...we went to the Clay Fusion to paint pottery.

The finished product--a heart shaped candle holder

Next stop--my favorite restaurant...
We then went to Goodberry's for dessert, then to pick up kids and head home for birthday cake (another favorite--coconut cream!!).

It was a great birthday celebration and it didn't stop on my actual day...Andy carried it over the next morning. To be continued...

Wordless Wednesday- Happy Girl

2011-09-07T07:47:00.002-04:00

Teal Toes

2011-09-06T19:56:00.002-04:00

The Weber girls are sporting Teal Toes! Even down to the littlest. Why might you ask? Click HERE to find out why even our 11 week old has her toes painted!

And yes pedicures are hard work for little ones!

:head to toe

2011-09-02T05:00:00.002-04:00

from head

to toe
including that sweet little nose

i cherish this age.

i cherish these moments.

Big Green Tractor

2011-09-01T05:00:00.000-04:00

This boy is a country boy! He loves dirt, tractors, the idea of hunting, Field and Stream magazine, deer, guns, farming, and anything "John Deere."

So you can imagine his excitement when some friends of ours so generously parted with this tractor and offered it to Zachary (thanks Mr. Brad & Mrs. Danielle)!
You see every time we head to church we count how many "John Deere's" we see. Oh the excitement of living in the country!

He has played with it every day since we brought it home and it is priceless to watch him fuel it up, load his "freighter" (aka trailer), and work in the yard.

Zachary had his three year checkup this week too (so I'm a little behind) and looks great! He finally has bulked up and is average for both height and weight. He weighs 32 lbs. 3.2 oz. (50th%) and is 38 inches tall (50th%). He stood on the scale, allowed the nurse to measure him, obeyed and followed directions through the eye exam, had his BP taken (88/40), body examined, and flu mist up his nose all while cooperating and even at times with a smile! He is growing up so quickly and we are so proud at the big boy he is growing up to be!

We love our John Deere lovin' "country boy!"

Wordless Wednesday--Bubblin'

2011-08-31T05:00:00.001-04:00

2 months new

2011-08-30T05:00:00.000-04:00

Our sweet girl is now 2 months new! I don't want to think of her as growing so fast so new she will continue to be!!

Last week we took her for her 2 month well visit. She did great with her shots and the doctor said she is perfect and healthy. Although we didn't need the doctor to tell us that. We already knew she was just perfect to us!

Although her cheeks are perfectly round and kissable she still weighs in on the small side!
She is now 10 lbs. 5 oz. (30th%) and 22 3/4" long (70th%). Her head continues to be on the smaller side as well at 37.4 cm (20th%).

Our sweet Madelyn is a cuddler and a lovey girl! She loves to be held and kissed. She soaks in all the attention she gets from anyone who is willing to gaze at her. She is very verbal and will coo and vocalize almost instantly when you make eye contact with her! Her baby blues are staying blue and are getting brighter and more beautiful as the days go by...just like her brother and sister!
She is definitely on a schedule. She eats every three hours like clock work during the day and typically goes from 10-3 at night, eats and then back down to 6:30ish. She is a champ with nursing...by far the best out of the three! And although she is still little, she is steady on the charts with her weight gain progressing as she should be. She wakes up at the same time every day and generally takes her naps around the same times too (9-11 a.m. and 1-3:30ish).

She is still sporting 0-3 months (size 1 diapers) for clothes but today I noticed that we probably need to move up to 3-6 (at least for onesies) because of her length. The problem is (just as it was for all of our kids) her waist is tiny but she is long.

She L.O.V.E.S to be in the sling! But putting her in the sling typically means automatic nap time! Loves to snuggle up close and snooze away!

2 months new...absolutely perfect!

Tell Us All About It !

2011-08-29T08:43:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-24T08:10:00.001-04:00

Sisters

2011-08-18T21:46:00.005-04:00

6 years apart.

Same dress.

Same age.

8 weeks.

Sweet Sisters.

National Geographic

2011-08-18T21:46:00.004-04:00

Zachary loves animals and Zachary loves mail! Put the two together and when I saw this deal, I got excited! Get a National Geographic One-Year Subscription to National Geographic Little Kids (ages 3-6) for 57% off. That's $10 for 6 issues! Plus use the coupon code: NATGEOLK3 to take $3 off.

Click here to snag this great deal! I can't wait to surprise our little man with this treat in the mailbox!

Wordless Wednesday- Southern Beauty in Training

2011-08-10T07:41:00.001-04:00

Great Big Thanks!

2011-08-05T11:19:00.003-04:00

Today we received our last meal given to us by dear sweet friends after Madelyn's birth! We have been overly blessed to receive three meals a week for the last month! Each meal came with such love! Some of the meals were accompanied by little notes, sweet baby gifts, and written words of encouragement. But all were accompanied by sweet time of visitations and hours spent by loving hands who worked so hard to prepare delicious recipes.

And just to make sure a thank you note didn't get missed, we wanted to say thank you for taking the time to love on our family as we have celebrated Madelyn's entrance into this world! We are beyond blessed to have such wonderful friends in our lives. Thank you for the delicious meals you have given and more than that, thank you for your friendship!

Much Love,
The Weber's

Six

2011-08-03T05:00:00.002-04:00

Six years ago we welcomed our first baby girl into the family and our lives changed for the better!
For the last 6 years she has brought has more joy than we could ever express! She is our loving, passionate, dramatic, joyful, happy, compassionate, and caring little girl! She is a blessing beyond words and makes everyday brighter!

Happy 6th Birthday, Katelyn Grace!! We love you so much!

Wordless Wednesday- Down Right Smitten

2011-07-27T09:35:00.003-04:00

A Gentle Push

2011-07-25T07:41:00.006-04:00

I wanted to snap a shot of our sweet girl as she slept so soundly to hang in her nursery. I was thinking browns to match her decor and this is what I came up with.

I immediately fell in love with the look as I was putting it all together and then as I snapped and looked down at the camera, I was pleased. And then I looked up at our baby girl and I was overfilled with emotion. My devotional that I had read came flooding back into my mind as I imagined Moses' mother's feelings as she placed her son in a reed basket and set him in the river.

How must she have felt? Grief. Heartache. Knowing that she was parting with her baby boy. Not knowing what God would do with the circumstances. But trusting Him.

How hard it must have been to watch him cry as she pushed the basket away. How she might have hesitated at the final moment of the "push" but she had to do it, she had to let him go. She trusted it was the best thing for Him.

And as a result of obedience, God blessed. He knew all along the plan for Moses. He had great things in store. It was just a matter of her letting go and trusting God with his life. Because after all Moses' life was in God's hands from the very beginning. Not his mothers.

And it was at that moment as I looked at the basket

I was reminded once again that she is a gift. She belongs to her creator and He has great things in store for her life. And along the way I have to remember that my hands must not hinder His plans for her life but instead help mold her and shape her into what He wants her to be.

The life lessons of a basket--thank you Lord for gentle pushes!

One Month Old !

2011-07-22T05:00:00.003-04:00

I have to admit that I had a hard time creating a folder for pictures yesterday that was named "one month." Because after all she can't possibly be a month old already. The days continue to fly by way too fast. And to be quite honest I don't like it one stinkin bit!!

As the days fly by, her personality continues to shine more and more, her looks continue to change, and we develop a little more of a schedule.

(I have decided to document what she is doing at each stage so that I can keep up with journaling her growth. With that said- I may share more "personal" details than you care to read about our sweet girl but it is mostly more for my own memory than to share with our friends and family. If you do care to read personal details of Miss. Madelyn's growth and schedule, keep reading!!)

Feeding:
She is now eating every three hours. Sometimes we get a little off and she wants to eat before the three hour mark but for the most part she is on a 3 hr. feeding schedule. She now eats a little longer but can still finish her meal within 20 or so minutes. I think putting her on Zantac for the reflux has really helped with this. She no longer pulls off and on but continuously sucks and eats quickly. Breastfeeding is going great!! (Much better than the other two, for sure!) We try to start our morning feedings roughly at the same time everyday which helps with forming a daily schedule.

The bad part about the reflux still is the amount of times that the poor girl gets the hiccups a day! OH MY! After each feeding, we will get a good burp which then usually results in the hiccups which she hates!

Sleep:
She has started to get on a schedule with sleeping as well (as least a little during the day). She wakes for the day between 6:30-7:00 a.m., eats, has some awake time, and then goes back down for a long nap between 8:00-11:00. (Most of the time it falls around 8:30-10:30.) She then has awake time, more feedings, and then will go back down after lunch (12:30-1:00). Sometimes she stays awake a little longer which then pushes nap into carpool time which I love because she doesn't like sitting still in the carpool line if she is awake. At night she usually falls asleep around 7:30-8:00 p.m. and I will do a final feeding at 9:30 p.m-10:00 p.m. She then goes back down for the night and typically wakes again at 1:30 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. to eat. This past week she has given the blessing of not waking till about 2:30-3:00 a.m. WOOHOO! And of course between all of this we have lots of little catnaps.

When she first came home she slept in her carseat for bedtime. She had an issue with the reflux and would gag and choke in her sleep. As soon as we put her upright to sleep she would snooze away. Three nights after she was put on the Zantac we were able to finally lay her flat. And now she sleeps soundly in her bassinet each night.

We have discovered that she likes to be WARM to sleep. I mean like sweaty warm. She loves to be bundled up in her footy pjs and then swaddled tight with a fleece blankie. Anytime she is super sleepy and can't fall asleep she usually zonks out if Andy holds her and gets her hot and snuggly. She loves to be swaddled but gracious, oh my--DO NOT put the girl's hands down in the swaddled blanket. She has to have those hands by her face to sleep or you will hear some temper flaring. She loves to be propped up on her side to sleep (wedged between a sleep wedge) and she prefers to be laying on her left side. It dawned on me the other day when I discovered this that this was the exact position she was always in on all of our ultrasounds.
Other random notes:

- She is a grunter/noise maker! For the first three weeks of her life she would wake up every morning around 4 a.m. and continuously grunt and growl until around 7 a.m. Let's just say there was no sleeping going on from 4 a.m. on...

- Baby acne came on at week 2 and is still hanging strong.

- Her umbilical cord fell off two days before she turned a month old.

- She loves the noise of her sister and brother and is not phased by them at all.

- Her eyes are turning more and more blue. I think I struck out and ended up with all three being blued eyed beauties. None of momma's green shining through.

- She will only take a paci on her terms and most of the time to get her to start sucking you have to place a finger in the end of it and hold the side of her face as you wiggle it on her lips.

- We haven't officially started calling her by a nickname but every once in awhile she gets a "Maddy" from her daddy. The kids prefer that she be called 'Madelyn' though.

- She has facial features of both of her siblings but definitely favors Zachary's looks. She is a blessing from the Lord and although I hate that a month has already gone by I truly love learning more about her everyday and watching her grow!

Big Brother Love

2011-07-21T05:00:00.000-04:00

Lost

2011-07-20T16:11:00.002-04:00

The Weber kids are losing all sorts of body parts this week--from umblicial cords to first teeth!

Katelyn came home from school today with her first tooth missing! She was so excited! Her principal (our dear friend), Mrs. Lambert, actually pulled it today for her. Katelyn said she went to the office and asked her to do it and boy I am SO glad she did. (Mommy has a weak stomach when it comes to pulling teeth!)

She asked if the tooth fairy was coming to visit and I said "yes" but then she followed the question up with, "Mommy, is the tooth fairy for real?" To which I responded with "well, what do you think?" She said "no, but can we still pretend she is and have her come?" And of course she got an "absolutely!"

My girls are growing up way too fast!

A First for "M"

2011-07-20T05:00:00.001-04:00

Sweet baby girl,

Last night was a big night at our house. Mommy went to undress you and was so very excited to discover that your cord had fallen off in your outfit! She yelled to daddy for him to come see and we immediately knew what was to come when big sis/brother went to bed--BATHTIME!

We have been eagerly waiting over the last four weeks to bathe you and get everything really clean from your nose to your toes.

We weren't exactly sure on what to expect as your big sister and brother were never fans of their first bath but you...you were so different!

You never made a peep and seem to enjoy the warm water.
You stared at yourself quite intently in the mirror and wouldn't take your eyes off that sweet baby staring back at you.

Until daddy got your attention with the water dripping on your tummy. Which you loved! Unfortunately mommy turned away and missed your big smiles on the camera.

You were so content the entire time and I think mommy and daddy enjoyed bath time as much as you did.

You would have been happy to stay in the water much longer but your little hands started to get cold so we bundled you up in your bear towel. You weren't a big fan of that and I think you preferred being in the warm water.
I think bath time is going to be a new favorite addition to the week.

And something that continues to puzzle us is where you got your blond beauty from. After we wash your hair (and it is no longer oily) it looks so super light! It looks almost reddish in the pictures because your little scalp is so red but in person it is quite the dirty blond shade.

It's not from mommy, that's for sure...

and not from daddy...hmmmm....

We can't wait to see what becomes of it and we look forward to many more fun baths complete with rubber duckies and bubbles in the future!

Love,

Mommy

Madelyn's Birth Story

2011-07-19T05:00:00.000-04:00

Abbreviated version--
The phone rang at 6:28 a.m. and the L/D nurse at Rex told us they were ready for us to come. I asked what time she wanted us there and she said, “How long does it take you to get here?” Knowing it took 40 mins. or more with traffic we quickly got ready and headed out. Before I hung up with the nurse, she said, “Oh, and Sandra will be your nurse today!” I was overwhelmed with excitement! We had been hoping and praying that God would orchestrate a way for us to be able to have Sandra as our labor and delivery nurse. She is a dear friend from church and we were overjoyed to know that she would be helping us welcome our little girl into the world!

We grabbed breakfast in the drive-thru on the way and walked calmly into the birthing center. It was a very surreal experience already. It was strange to be walking without any contractions or having to stop to breathe. We walked in casually laughing, joking as if we were just going somewhere to hang out! When we arrived we were welcomed by a smiling face and we were so excited to hug Sandra’s neck and thank her for asking to come in on her day off to be with us!

I was admitted, asked the normal history questions, and hooked up to an IV (with three attempts—OUCH!) and was given Pitocin at 9:20 a.m. Labor officially began at 10:00 a.m. I started having contractions and things were progressing quite well. We talked, watched “Cake Boss”, and waited for the intense stuff to start. Around noon I was laboring on my own and Sandra cut back the pitocin. I received my epidural around 1 p.m. but unfortunately it would not take on my left side. I had a hot spot that was feeling all the pain. They kept administering an additional push into my IV to get it to work but it was doing nothing for the hotspot but numbing my legs completely. Dr. C didn’t want to break my water because Madelyn was still too high and he didn’t want the cord to prolapse. I teased my sister and Andy that I wanted Madelyn to come by 3:30 p.m. I was ready to meet our baby girl! 3:30 p.m. came and went and no Madelyn! She wouldn’t drop and I was 8 cm dilated. I started to have flashbacks of Zachary’s birth and kept praying to myself that we wouldn’t have a placenta abruption again when she did drop. (He wouldn't drop either.) I started to feel intense pressure of needing to push. I told Sandra and she pulled back the sheet to check me. And then with a surprised face she said, “Oh…Andy why don’t you and Jenny step out for a moment?” We all looked a little nervous to which she replied…”everything is ok…I have just never seen this before!” My water bag came out completely intact and was lying on the table. Madelyn’s head was resting just behind it. She called Dr. Campbell in and he said, “hmmm…let’s get this party rolling.” He touched the bag and it immediately broke and then the pressure of her sweet head was there and I was ready to push. Andy and Jenny came back in the room. I pushed for 9 minutes and Madelyn came flying out. 3:54 p.m!! Dr. Campbell literally caught her and for the first time I got to experience the joy of having a healthy baby placed on my chest. I was startled by the sight and overwhelmed with emotion all at the same time. Since our other two were rushed off to NICU to be checked I never got to experience this beautiful moment with them. She was just beautiful and I cried just soaking in the blessing of an amazing birth and a sweet baby girl!

I was able to feed her immediately following and enjoyed every second of holding her close to me. And then we got to see her personality rise up during her weight check and bath across the room!Madelyn's birth was by far the best and most enjoyable out of our three kiddos--an answer to prayer for sure!

First Grade !

2011-07-18T08:20:00.004-04:00

Today is the first day of 1st GRADE!! It is so hard to believe that our little girl is not so little anymore and she is off to enjoy the adventures that 1st grade will bring. She was super excited this morning to put on her new backpack, grab her new Hello Kitty lunchbox, sport her new tennis shoes and go be with her friends and new teacher, Miss Schaefer. She has frequented a first grade classroom numerous times before today but the last time she did she was more like this size...

when mommy was the teacher! Oh first grade...the fun that will come!

We look forward to hearing about her first day of 1st grade. And of course more pictures to follow!

Photojournal: 3 weeks

2011-07-15T05:00:00.000-04:00

1, 2, 3! Special as can be!

2011-07-12T13:53:00.002-04:00

Super Dad!

2011-07-09T05:00:00.000-04:00

Know what makes a super dad?

A dad who takes the time to make each evening exciting by playing, creating new games, and using his imagination with the kiddos as he spends special time with them.

A dad who goes above and beyond to love on each kiddo and make sure they feel special during new transitions in the home especially when a new baby sister arrives!

We have a super dad in our house!

He created a mega fort in the living room...
and told stories as they hid out together!

And boy did they love EVERY.MINUTE.OF IT!!!

Daddy, we think you are the cream of the crop! You are a super dad! One of kind!

2 weeks old

2011-07-08T12:47:00.007-04:00

I cannot believe that 2 weeks have gone by. It feels like just literally yesterday I gave birth to our newest sweet girl. We are all madly in love with Madelyn and the days are just going faster than we would like. This is one of my favorite ages and I hate that the days are whizzing by.

Things have been going great at the Weber house. The kids are transitioning well, we are figuring out Madelyn's personality and what her likes and dislikes are, and routine/schedules are in the process of being established.

Madelyn had her 2 week checkup on Wednesday. She looks perfect! For the first time, I am PROUD to report that one of my babies finally surpassed their birthweight at their 2 week visit. Madelyn weighs 7 lbs. 10 oz. (25%) and is 21 inches long (75%). (She was 7lb. 8oz. and 20" at birth.)

Things to remember about Madelyn at 2 weeks:
Sleep: Right now she sleeps A LOT during the day (we are working on more awake time) and we force her (oh the fun of the evening hours) to stay awake from 6-9:30 p.m. so that she will sleep during the night. A good night looks like: 9ish bedtime feeding/wake up to eat at 1 a.m./back to sleep till 3:30-4 a.m. then feeding/ back to sleep till 6 a.m.

Feedings: During the day she is eating every 2-3 hours. She is doing great with breastfeeding and has been my easiest baby to feed yet to which I am so excited about. She does give us signs that she is having the same GI issues as her sister and brother (Katelyn--COLICKY!! and Zachary--reflux). She gets hiccups more times than we can count and has just started to spit up in her mouth, gulp and swallow as she makes faces. She is extremely gassy and this usually results in some evening woes of crying. We are figuring out what helps (thanks to past experience with two other GI issue babies) and things are looking up with this.
Growing big and oh so fast, still can't believe 2 weeks have past!

Flying Solo

2011-07-07T19:30:00.005-04:00

We have been very spoiled here over the last two weeks to have someone with us around the clock--mostly entertaining the two big kids as mommy focused on Madelyn. Gramby was here for the first week, Poppy joined her for some of the second week, and Daddy took off a few days of work after they left to be with us.

But today everyone is gone...except for me and these three!
And although the morning started with a newborn having a massive poopy explosion all over our bed, the three year old waking up grumpy because daddy is gone, and the oldest asking "so what fun things are we going to do today, mom?," I look forward to flying solo as a mommy of three today. Plus, last night I got a 4 hr. stretch of sleep...now that's a good way to start a solo day!

I am in the process of putting together lots of posts--birth story, 2 week check-up, transitions, and all the fun stuff in between! Thanks for being patient...I promise they are coming!

Wordless Wednesday-- Happy 1 Week!

2011-06-29T05:00:00.000-04:00

No Time for Words

2011-06-25T18:57:00.004-04:00

But pictures share enough how much we love having Madelyn here!

2011-06-24T14:39:00.007-04:00

"For I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of Him." 1 Samuel 1:27

She's Here!

2011-06-22T20:49:00.003-04:00

We gladly introduce you to our precious baby girl, Madelyn Faith Weber! She came after 6 hours of labor (induction) on Tuesday, June 21, 2011. She weighs 7 lbs. 8 oz. and is 20" long.

Another little one with a head full of hair but this time much lighter (with blondish highlights) than big sister and brother when they were born.

It was by far our most relaxing and enjoyable delivery and recovery and we truly thank God for answered prayers!

We look forward to sharing her birth story with you in just a couple of days after we get home and get adjusted to being a family of 5!

Thankful

2011-06-19T21:30:00.000-04:00

Today I am thankful for these two men in my life! One that brought me into the world and taught me more about what it means to love, live, and have faith than I could ever express into a few simple words on a blog. My dad is the most godly, loving, passionate, and amazing man. He makes me smile, laugh, and most importantly continually desire to be more in love with my Savior because of his great example. And to be quite honest, I found someone who follows in his footsteps to be the love of my life.

The other man here is an inspiration to me. An inspiration to be a better wife and mother. He is my joy in the morning, a strength to me throughout my days, and my comfort every night. I thank the Lord daily for allowing me to marry my best friend. I thank the Lord for the gift of my husband and blessing us with three beautiful children!

And today, I am thankful, grateful, honored to have these two men in my life!

Happy Father's Day to you both!

And...

Happy 7th Anniversary to my very best friend!

7 years ago today I thought we loved one another deeply but every day my love for you continues to grow deeper and deeper. You make me the happiest woman in the world and spending every day with you, raising our family and growing old together is pure joy!

This is truly a special week as I get to tell you how much I love you for being my husband, for being an amazing dad and as we get to welcome our third child into this world!

Four - Almost No More

2011-06-16T10:15:00.004-04:00

Track out (end of the year) couldn't have come at a better time. Katelyn was officially done Kindergarten last Friday and has been enjoying her first week off. It has been such a nice week with just the "two of them" before our family dynamics change forever.

I have enjoyed doing special things individually with them throughout the days as well as doing some special things (splurges) that we wouldn't normally do together. Daddy has enjoyed having one on one dates as well as taking them both out together on a lake adventure one night this week. It has been a great week enjoying our two!

And even the two of them have enjoyed just being together. I ran and grabbed the point and shoot as fast as I could when I saw them watching a show together like this. These moments are precious and they truly love and adore being around one another. I so look forward to seeing the dynamics of three!

It's been a fun week as a family of four!

And now as it comes to an end and next week brings much excitement and change, we welcome it with open arms!

Photojournal:Kindergarten Graduation

2011-06-15T05:00:00.001-04:00

The Countdown Is On!

2011-06-14T13:42:00.007-04:00

(or less if Madelyn decides to come before the induction date!)

We were able to schedule our induction for next Tuesday, June 21st with our favorite doctor~ Dr. C!

We have never been induced so it has always been a waiting game of when will the little ones arrive. So this time around it is kind of odd to know that we will have no longer than a week to wait to meet our baby girl.

38 weeks

2011-06-13T22:05:00.005-04:00

At last week's appt. we had our growth ultrasound and biophysical profile on Madelyn. She weighs approximately 6 lbs. 11 0z. according to ultrasound. She scored an 8 out of 8 on her BPP and everything checked out great. This week we have two NST's scheduled--the FINAL two!! Woohoo!

We also schedule the induction date for next week at tomorrow's appointment. It's like Christmas Eve and the anticipation is so exciting! We have a date picked in our minds that would be perfect (to us) as it would be with my FAVORITE doctor. However, we know God's timing is best so I am praying that I trust in His timing as I hear the date that is available and know that He may even decide she needs to come early and not meet the induction date.

Week 38, Madelyn is about the length of a leek (more than 19 1/2 inches) head to heel.

38 Week Pregnancy Highlights:

Total Weight Gain: Find out tomorrow at my NST

Maternity Clothes: Packed my favorite outfit in the hospital bag! ☺

Gender: GIRL! Madelyn Faith will make her debut within the week! WHAT?!?!? Can it be true?

Movement: I feel as if I have a bruised rib due to little Miss. kicking up
in my rib cage constantly.

What I miss: The lack of intense pressure as she head butts a nerve in the southern region!

Cravings: Nothing

Symptoms: Pressure, pressure, pressure!

Best Moment this Week: Scheduling my induction, finishing the packing of the hospital bags, and doing the final load of baby wash!

The kids are so excited that she is almost here. They talk NON STOP about her arrival, how many more DAYS, when will family arrive, and what she will be able to do and look like when she gets here. Everyday is a series of non stop questions about Madelyn! Gramby arrives Saturday (18th) to be with them as mommy and daddy head to the hospital sometime next week. And Aunt Jenny will come up the night before the induction for the special day!

We have asked my sister to be in the labor/delivery room with us when I give birth to Madelyn. Awhile back (years) she mentioned how much she would love to be on the "receiving end" of the birth process and see a birth. I stored this information away and thought it would be neat to surprise her and ask her if she would be apart of Madelyn's birthday! Andy and I are honored that she would love to be a part of her niece's entrance into this world. Sharing this day with her brings me great joy as I LOVE my big sister and thank God for our relationship! So we surprised her with the question of whether or not she would like to join us Memorial Day weekend. She was immediately brought to tears and yelled "YES!" So Mommy, Daddy, and Aunt Jenny look forward to welcoming Madelyn first very soon!!

Tomorrow we "might" (depending on God's timing) narrow down the window of time of when we will see her sweet face!

Wordless Wednesday-- Wild West Style

2011-06-08T05:00:00.001-04:00

37 weeks

2011-06-06T05:00:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I look at the calendar week that I have packed full of things to do, places to go, and I wonder what was I thinking! This week is no different. Everyday has something on the calendar, some days have 3-4 places where I need to be, some overlapping.

However, I think to myself as I complete each task this week, many having to do with Kindergarten wrap-up/graduation, that these moments are about to come to an end.

In just two weeks, I will be holding a sweet baby girl in my arms and the whole world will freeze. Time will feel as if it is standing still and I couldn't be more excited!

The car seat is installed, the clothes are washed, and the hospital bags are packed. I am 37 weeks 2 days. The NST's are about to come to an end...only 4 more to go. This week, we get to see little Miss. on ultrasound again as they do a biophysical profile. And next week, I schedule my induction...can it really only be 2 weeks away?! WOOHOO!!

37 Week Pregnancy Highlights:

Total Weight Gain: 18 lbs (lost weight at my last appt)
Maternity Clothes: Getting tired of the same shirts and wishing I would have bought more tank tops as it is getting HOT!
Gender: GIRL! Madelyn Faith will make her debut in about 2 weeks!
Movement: Best moment was Katelyn's face yesterday in church. She reached over and put her hand on my belly just as Madelyn started to roll. Her eyes and shocked smile were priceless.
What I miss: Energy
Cravings: Anything I don't have to cook!
Symptoms: Joint Pain, calf pain, and swollen feet--I can be on my feet for 15 minutes and my legs ache. I didn't have this with the other two and it is definitely a nuisance with a busy schedule and being a mom of two.
Best Moment this Week: Only having to do one NST because the doctors allowed me to cancel the second one due to a dr. shortage/emergency. Having a calm, relaxing weekend all about the family and preparing for Madelyn!

One Week

2011-06-03T08:39:00.002-04:00

One week...that's all that is left before my big girl is no longer a Kindergartner!

Oh my, where has the year gone?
It feels as if she was just hopping out of the car for her very first day of school so ready for the excitement of all that was about to come.

We are so proud of how far she has come this year! Her confidence has soared, her academics have been strong, and she has made tons of new friends.

Next week is Kindergarten Graduation and then we track out for 5 short weeks before we start the First Grade world. She repeatedly makes known that she does not want to go to First Grade. Simply because she does not want to leave her Kindergarten teachers. They have been wonderful and we were totally blessed to have them this year.

One week...

Photojournal: 3rd Birthday Party

2011-06-01T08:04:00.010-04:00

Partying "How to Train a Dragon" style

Birthday cake

Daddy with the Lil' Viking

Enjoying birthday fun with big sis

Z's view when entering the kitchen

So excited about his cake

Listening to everyone sing

Mommy and Daddy with the Birthday Boy

Cousins

Happy 3rd Birthday Little Man!

2011-06-01T05:00:00.001-04:00

3 years ago today we welcomed you into the world at 8:31 p.m. You brought immediate joy into our lives as we looked at your sweet little face with a head full of hair. Your sister was thrilled to have a baby brother and she thought the world of you immediately.

It is hard to believe that you are already three and in just days you will be the one welcoming a baby sister into the world as well. You continue to bring us joy with your spunky, curious, ornery, adventuresome, and strong willed little personality! There are days when you challenge us as parents but we couldn't be more blessed to be your mommy and daddy!
We love your passion for all things boy...swords, dragons, guns, hunting, race cars and so much more! We look forward to seeing how God is going to use your smart, inquistive, strong willed personality and mind to make a difference for Him! You are a bright little man that makes each of our days brighter just because you are apart of them.

Happy 3rd Birthday, Zachary! Mommy, Daddy, and Sissy love you bunches and bunches!

My Favorite

2011-05-23T21:04:00.005-04:00

After photographing many different areas of life, I definitely have to say that newborn photography is my favorite. There is something special about capturing those first days of life that I cannot explain. Something about seeing a parent's joy as they view the pictures for the first time...a sense of pride, happiness, bliss.

This last newborn shoot that I did was so fun because it was my first female shoot. She had an adorable, precious face. So dainty, so sweet.
And I have to say that after photographing this sweetheart, I immediately started thinking of the outfits, the bows, the frills, the curls for our own newborn photo shoot in just a few weeks!

Thank you "W family" for welcoming me into your home and allowing me to capture your sweet girl's first days on camera.

35 weeks

2011-05-19T22:32:00.004-04:00

It's hard to believe that I have 4 weeks left until I will be induced. 4 weeks!!!! The countdown is on and the list is made of the final things we need to buy and do. I do have to say that thankfully the list is dwindling down and that's a good feeling! Anxiousness and excitement has set in for the whole family.

Today is another NST day. I am thankful that they are uneventful visits even though they are time consuming and feel somewhat wasteful since Madelyn passes within the first few minutes each time. I am excited today to see my favorite doctor though. That makes today's visit a little more fun!

(And please excuse the bags under my eyes--wowza! I guess they are only going to get worse but still, WOWZA!)

35 Week Pregnancy Highlights:

Total Weight Gain: 19 lbs
Maternity Clothes: More yoga shorts and tank tops are my favorites right now
Gender: GIRL! Madelyn Faith will make her debut in about 4weeks!
Movement: The whole family has lots of fun watching her roll and move. Sometimes I can tell that she is moving by watching by belly instead of feeling it internally because the space is getting tighter.
What I miss: Being able to sit "indian style" on my bed and milkshakes
Cravings: Back to pink lemonade and strawberry yogurt burst cheerios have been a favorite this week
Symptoms: Braxton Hicks--timeable and painful. I don't remember having them this strong with the other two and I have a feeling I will definitely be having back labor this time around. (Fasting sugars now in the 60's with meds--yay!)
Best Moment this Week: Ordering Big Brother/Big Sister shirts, doing another load of laundry with that sweet smell of baby detergent, completing her painting, and crossing off things to do for my maternity leave!

Thankful Thursday

2011-05-19T11:19:00.004-04:00

Today, I am thankful that I married this man...

He blesses my heart beyond words. He makes me happier than I could ever express or that I ever imagined would be possible. He brings new joys to everyday. And waking up next to him everyday is a blessing.

I am thankful that he loves his family as much as he does.

I am thankful that he works so hard for us.

I am thankful that he always puts other first before himself.

I am thankful that he teaches our children the meaning of selfless giving and unconditional love.

I am thankful that he is willing to rub a lower back, aching legs, or just cuddle up to make pregnancy discomfort disappear.

And I am thankful that he appreciates the fact that bringing a little one into this world is not all sunshine and roses. Sometimes it feels more like storm clouds and lightning.

I am thankful that he surprises me with sweet gifts, like last night's roses, to show how much he loves me and appreciates his wife.

I am thankful that he knows that he will only be giving me 10 of that dozen because he loves his littles enough to brighten their day and share with them too!

I am thankful that he is just as excited as I am to be holding his youngest in just a few weeks.

I am thankful he picked me. I am thankful God gave me him!

This Thursday I am thankful for the gift of my hubby!

Painting Complete

2011-05-17T09:57:00.003-04:00

Type A, OCD, and a painting project = something I am likely not to take on again. (Well, maybe...now the oldest is begging for one for her room.) But it is finished! Overall, I am very pleased with how Madelyn's wall art turned out. And it really stands out and looks cute on the focal (khaki) wall.
Her room is almost complete with the final decorations. Remember the wedding extravangza last weekend? Well before it, my sister and I decided to take on a couple hours of shopping. I hit up Hobby Lobby (so wish we had one locally but counting my blessings and dollars that we don't) and found some other cute things for her walls as well as the best hair accessories E.V.E.R!! Oh, how I can't wait until she gets here. Only 5 more weeks!

Today is round 2 of the NST. I really dread these long, ridiculous trips down to the doctor's office and all the prep work of childcare for Z, travel time, and carpool accomodations for K. But 5 weeks...that's it!! Woohoo!!!

Weekend Recap

2011-05-16T07:31:00.002-04:00

This weekend was a whirlwind of a weekend to say the least! We travelled to SC and back in 24 hours. At 34 weeks pregnant, I took on a photography assignment of the largest magnitude to date! A family friend's daughter was getting married and asked if I would shoot my first wedding! I agreed to it early on in my pregnancy and this weekend was the big event.

It was beautiful and so fun to be a part of this special day! I can see why wedding photographer's love their job! I had the opportunity to step out of my box, do something I have NEVER done before, and enjoy being a part of someone's happiest moments in life.

My sister was amazing to say the least as she took on the role of videographer/my assistant. She held lens', made sure I was hydrated (yes, Jen I drank the water!! HA!), and filled in every detail needed. It was so fun to do this together.

Saturday night (on the car trip home) and Sunday morning, I have never felt pain in my calves, feet, and hips like I did this weekend! OH.MY.GOODNESS!! 34 weeks pregnant and shooting a wedding may not have been the wisest idea but it sure was fun! I had contractions all morning as I walked the halls as preschool coordinator and I am sure I had an attractive waddle to boot!

But as I look back through the 1300+ pictures of the day, it is safe to say I think I would do it all over again. Preferably not in my third trimester of pregnancy but definitely again.

Joys of Learning

2011-05-13T13:22:00.002-04:00

(If you cannot view the player below, click refresh on your web browser.)

Field Trip Fun

2011-05-11T08:45:00.003-04:00

Katelyn's class went to the Museum of Life and Science in Durham yesterday. It was very hard not to go with her as I have done everything else this school year with her--first field trip, room mom, lunch mom, parties, and much more. But I had to realize my boundaries and I decided that it was not necessarily a smart move for this 8 mos. pregnant mama to be walking around chaperoning Kindergarteners on this trip. And then I ended up having to schedule appointments for Madelyn so it worked out well that I didn't sign up.

I thought she would be disappointed when I told her I wasn't going. Her face did drop a little when she first heard the news but then picked right back up when I told her she would be in a dear friends group! Both of her sweet best buds were with her and one of their mommies (which we know from church--LOVE them!) was able to be a chaperone so it worked out perfectly!

And Mrs. Mayhew is a lady after my own heart!! She even sent an email full of pictures that she captured while they were on the trip!

Growth Ultrasound at 33 weeks

2011-05-10T19:04:00.003-04:00

Today was Madelyn's first growth ultrasound due to being put on meds for the gestational diabetes. They measured her head, stomach, limbs, and the amniotic fluid around her. Everything looks great and our little girl appears to be healthy!

She is weighing approx. 4 lbs. 10 oz. which is on target for 34 weeks (avg. size at 34 weeks= 4lbs. 12 oz.). Her heart rate was 153bpm. The fluid around her was at 11.9 which the ultrasound tech was very pleased with. The tech was fabulous and so informative. She shared all the fine details of what she was looking at. Madelyn's bladder is functioning well because the way it was full. Her kidneys looked great and her heart was functioning perfectly. I am 33 weeks 3 days today but she measured closer to 34/35 weeks for all of her measurements. Dr. F said that my stomach was measuring at 34 as well. We have never been sure of a due date because we have nothing to base it off of due to the fact I was on meds to even possibly become pregnant down the road. So she is God's little miracle in HIS TIMING! So we shall see if an induction is needed (at 39 weeks) or if Madelyn will make her debut on her own (we are praying on her own) a little earlier than we all have been anticipating. Of course we know HIS TIMING is perfect and not our own!
She is still head down (same exact position at our 3d ultrasound a couple of weeks ago) with her face turned out to my right side. The ultrasound tech loved getting pictures of her face because she kept opening and closing her mouth and puckering her lips. It was absolutely precious to watch!

We are so excited that everything looks good and that she is happily growing! Friday is our first official NST (non stress test) but there is no doubt in my mind that this active little girl will do just great!

A Shower for Madelyn

2011-05-10T05:00:00.001-04:00

Friday night we were blessed by sweet friends! Two special ladies, Jamie and Teri, put together a shower for Madelyn. It was a special time catching up with friends, old co-workers, co-workers of Andy's, and even my sweet neighbor. We were showered with love and received lots of sweet gifts for Madelyn!
I was so excited to receive new outfits for Madelyn since everything else she owns are hand-me-downs from sissy and another dear friend of mine! I could immediately think of all the special pictures I can't wait to take in each outfit!
This frilly outfit is a photographer's dream--newborn photo shoot here I come!

Jamie (and her hubby, Ed) made an adorable diaper cake complete with Madelyn's nursery colors.
And now we also have lots of goods to help with those many upcoming diaper changes.

Thank you to all of our sweet friends who came to love on Madelyn! I can't wait to introduce you to her!

(And I had to add this one of proud big brother! He helped me move all of Madelyn's new things to her room. Zachary is so excited about Madelyn's arrival and asks everyday if he will get to help with changing her bottom (I think he will quickly change his mind), feeding her, helping her get to sleep, and quieting her with her paci.)

Monday Project

2011-05-09T11:55:00.003-04:00

We had a wonderful weekend celebrating Mother's Day! And to say I am blessed would be an understatement. Not only do I have a beautiful and amazing mom, I have the joy of being the mommy to 2 (almost 3) precious littles!

We celebrated Mother's Day on Saturday with dinner at Texas Roadhouse (I have to say I am loving the fact that my hubby is concerned about my low iron levels!) and then we did some shopping for our upcoming, exciting, life changing event--meeting Madelyn in just 6 short weeks!

We went and bought some things on our "want" list and "need" list and then did some shopping for mommy too! I picked up my "hospital pj's" and a few other necessities that I would need when Madelyn arrives. I still can't believe it is only 6 weeks away. The kids repeatedly told me how much they loved me, made homemade cards and signs, decorated the kitchen, and bought me a potted plant. It was the perfect Mother's day!

And now today is a day with nothing on the calendar! LOVE these days! A great way to extend a wonderful Mother's Day weekend. And although I have way too much I could be doing to get ready for maternity leave, VBS, a photo shoot, editing pics, etc., I decided to enjoy decorating and getting ready for our sweet baby girl!

Her room has been ready, bed has been decorated ...
and all set up for her!

And so I started working on a project to help complete the walls. I saw something I loved and decided it would be way cheaper to attempt it myself. So I drew it out on canvas and today's Monday project consists of painting wall art...

and the first coat is done...

But I am realizing it may take a little longer than I anticipated. Good thing I have 6 weeks (I'm hoping)!

Sugar and Spice

2011-05-05T16:22:00.005-04:00

This is why I love taking pictures...
because it doesn't get sweeter than that!

And to think I will have my own sweet baby girl to hold and take pictures of in just 7 short weeks!!

"W" family--thank you for giving me the opportunity to love on your little one and take her first pictures. Hope you enjoy your sneak peek! She is a beauty!

32 Weeks

2011-05-04T13:01:00.001-04:00

This week Madelyn weighs as much as a jicama...Again, who comes up with these foods? Well, I have never seen, eaten, or heard (for that matter) of a jicama but she is roughly 3.75 lbs. She is about 16 3/4 inches long as well.

This week's doctor's visit rates as my least favorite for this pregnancy. I received the news I knew was coming about my glucose levels. They have continued to rise and even fasting numbers were now too high. So I was prescribed insulin pills, labeled as "at-risk diabetic" for insurance and clinical purposes, was told I now have to go 2x a week for non-stress tests, and will be induced at 39 weeks. I sat there on the table listening to the doctor tell me all this and my heart sank. I kept thinking a) cost of the extra tests and ultrasounds b) gas money c) scheduling with babysitters for Zachary d) Andy missing time off of work to help with visits e) busy month ahead with VBS and other things already scheduled, etc. etc. etc... I was bummed! It had been a hard enough week with all that has been going on with Andy's dad and now this pregnancy officially at that moment became a stress to me as well.

I left feeling overwhelmed and frustrated at myself. I had to do some self-reality checks to get my heart in the right place knowing that nothing takes God by surprise, Madelyn is worth every penny, every test, every thing I need to do for her well being, and that it wasn't my fault in how I have been taking care of her or my body.

So, starting Tuesday I now go to the doctors every Tuesday and Friday for non-stress tests and will have routine and frequent ultrasounds (although there are more cons than pros to this...at least I get to see my baby girl more!).

And now the countdown has changed...no longer 8 weeks but 7 to go!

32 Week Pregnancy Highlights:

Total Weight Gain: 15 lbs (lost a pound since 30 weeks)

Maternity Clothes: If you were to show up at my door unannounced you would see me living in my yoga/gaucho shorts and gray tank top!

Gender: GIRL! Madelyn Faith will make her debut in about 7 weeks!

Movement: Lots of movement (kicks) on my high right side. She is constantly rolling and sticking out a body part!

What I miss: Being able to lay on my belly to write/read, etc.

Cravings: Coconut...anything with a coconut flavor=HEAVENLY! I just have to watch what and how many tastes I can get at a time.

Symptoms: Braxton Hicks--and lots of them!!!

Best Moment this week: Surviving the week!

Update

2011-05-03T20:18:00.001-04:00

The surgery lasted for 18 hours with no complications and they believe surgery was successful. Andy's dad will be in ICU for several days and in the hospital for several weeks. Please pray for his recovery, his strength, for God's healing hand, and strength for his mom. Thank you so much for your love and prayers! To God be the glory!!!

Long Distance Heart

2011-05-02T05:00:00.001-04:00

I am here. Physically I am here. Emotionally and mentally I am miles and miles away. Yesterday, I had to conduct a VBS training meeting in front of 20+ preschool teachers and I could not for the life of me tell you what I said, what I covered, and if I did all I needed to do as the preschool director. Because my heart is somewhere else right now. 600 miles away to be exact.

I long to be with my hubby right now and support him. Comfort him. Stand by him. I want to be holding his hand and sitting next to him as he sits and waits in the surgery waiting room. I want to be able to tell him that I understand what he is feeling as he sits and waits for the news of his parent as they under-go an intense procedure to remove all the cancer. I want to be able to bow my head before our Sovereign God together and throw our requests at His feet!

But today my heart is long distance. He is there and I am here. So I sit and pray that the Lord will wrap His arms around my husband and hold him close. And even more than that I pray for the Lord to give wisdom to the doctors, for the Lord's healing hand, for His comfort and peace that only He can give to all who sit and wait.

Andy's dad's (David) surgery is at 10:00 a.m. and will last most of the day. If you think of it throughout the day, please join us in praying for him.

Rain Boots

2011-04-28T05:00:00.001-04:00

Do you ever wonder why God allows bad things to happen in your life or in your loved ones lives in what seems to be a repetitive fashion? Over and over and over again.

Not one, not two, but now three of our closest family members have been hit with the ugly word that keeps rearing its head. Cancer. I despise that word. I long to find the cure to help make it go away. I am tired of seeing our loved ones endure physical and emotional pain and hardship. I am ready for it to go away. I am ready for there to be no more pain. No more sorrow. No more tears. I am ready for the Lord to call us HOME!

First, it was my mom. Ovarian cancer. Praise the Lord for His healing hand and the fact that she is now in remission. PRAISE HIM! Then Andy's brother. Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. He is still in treatment and we are praying every day that he can beat it. A young dad (almost 33) to three small boys. And now praying for the Lord's healing hand once again. For Andy's dad. As if it wasn't hard enough on his family to currently be watching his brother fight the disease, his dad now has to begin his own battle. Bile Duct Cancer. A rare form of cancer affecting the liver.

During my mom's fight, I watched a woman that I love more than anything endure more and fight harder than I ever could imagine anyone dealing with. I remember taking my squimish self and putting on my "big girl panties" to see and help with things that I never thought I could handle. To hold back tears and be a rock and support because that it what was needed at the time. To make accomodations in my family to help love, support, and honor my parents because that's what family does and that's what the Bible teaches.

And now we do it all over again. I watch my husband, who loves, honors, and puts his family before himself, having to jump in the role I played as a daughter. And my heart BREAKS for him. I watch his strength and know that it comes from the Lord. My heart yearns to be his helpmate and do whatever is needed to support him, his dad, his family. I long to take the burden off of his shoulders. I want to be his giant umbrella and shield him from the rain that hurts and stings so badly but I know I can't be. The rain still comes in at all sides. So instead I put on my rain boots and walk alongside of him.

It's not fair. And it does hurt to see and have these bad things happen over and over! But have you ever seen how God uses these bad things to strengthen you, stretch your faith, allow you to grow in ways that might seem unimaginable? During the struggle, during the fight, it seems so easy to throw in the towel. To want to just give up and surrender. But looking back after the battles, you see just how much the Lord has moved in your life and what He is capable of pulling you through. You see how much you draw closer to Him and to one another during the rough patches of life. During the cancer.

So I pray now not only for healing but I pray for us to see His blessings through it all. Because what if the trials of this life are His mercies in disguise?

Wordless Wednesday- Easter Sunday

2011-04-27T05:00:00.000-04:00

Spring Break Fun Turned Scary

2011-04-25T15:41:00.009-04:00

Saturday, April 16th will be a day that we will never forget. My sister's family had just arrived into town the night before to begin their Spring Break adventure! They were starting at our house and then heading north to make a couple of stops to continue the fun.

On Saturday morning, we all woke up, enjoyed a big breakfast together, hung out around the house, and then left right after lunch to head to Marbles Kids Museum in downtown Raleigh. The kids didn't know where we were headed and we were off to make memories together and enjoy the day.

Memories were made. No doubt about that!

We got to Marbles around 1 p.m. and the kids immediately took off to have some fun. Aunt Jenny and Zachary played in the new vet clinic.
The girls plus Zachary enjoyed the "Fashion table." They created dresses for each one of their girls. (Zachary colored a dog.)

Aunt Jenny got on her fashion diva sense and helped Katelyn create a stylish outfit. Katelyn loved working alongside of her.

Adam enjoyed all things boy...racing the cars, making paper airplanes, playing hockey, and doing a little surfing.

Fun was had by all including these two jungle animals!

It was a great fun and time passed by quickly. We left the museum around 3:45. As we were headed out the lightning and thunder were rolling in the sky and we commented that we should get to the van quick before we got poured on. We made it to the parking deck just in time as it started to rain.

My sister and I rode together with all the younger kids. Andy and Chris followed behind us in our car with Abby. As we pulled out of the deck, my sister commented about the unusual lightning patterns in the sky (not your typical straight down bolts). We made it two blocks before we heard the DJ on WQDR announce that a tornado had touched down in downtown Raleigh (we later found out by Shaw University--5 blocks from where we were) and if you were on the road to seek shelter immediately. We contacted the boys and all decided to high tail it out of the city as fast as we could because there was no shelter around that was opened (with the exception of Krispy Kreme donuts which is all glass).

We headed north on Capital Blvd. and the power went out all around us (traffic lights, buildings, everything). The wind was picking up, the sky was black, the rain was every which direction and we knew we were running out of time and needed to find shelter. We pulled into the Burlington Coat Factory parking lot. I parked in front of the building and at this point boxes, debris, leaves, and branches were flying around and hitting the van. Jenny jumped out to go bang on the doors (they had locked everything down due to the power outage). Once I saw they had opened the doors for her, I opened the van door and told the kids to run to her as fast as they could. They all got inside, Jenny came back to scoop up Zachary and everyone made it into the store. I threw the van in park and went to the door as well, banging on it for them to let me in.

All the kids were screaming and sobbing and we immediately ran to the middle of the store while every one wondered what was wrong with the pregnant lady, the other crazy woman, and screaming children since they had no clue they were in the middle of a tornado. They all seemed to think it was just a power outage. We asked the manager if he knew that there was a tornado close by and he said "yes" but still allowed all of the customers to be at the glass windows of the store. A few minutes later the daddies made it to the door and began banging on it as well. Jenny had to go tell the employees that they were with us because they would not let them in. (Let's just say Burlington Coat Factory made me very angry because of their poor response to care for people. There were people outside of the building screaming and crying to get in and they would not allow them in. On a side note--I did send a letter to Corporate.) Once they were inside, we were relieved that everyone was together!!! So we waited out the tornado in the mens wear department eating m&m's and fruit snacks (from the bottom of my purse) and playing hide and seek. We found out later when we got home that the tornado touched down a mile to the west, picked up over the shopping center area we were huddled in, and then touched down again a mile to the east. It was blocks from us the entire time we were trying to outrun it and find protection.

We praise God for His protection and watching over our family during this storm. It breaks my heart to see the destruction of those in the area. Some of which lost everything.

Our children definitely learned the importance of seeking shelter in a storm and the power and destruction a tornado brings. They have learned the importance of prayer as they all quietly prayed to themselves in the back of the van and then later realized just how much God answered their prayers. They have had compassion on the families who lost everything as we have showed them the collapsed homes around us, purchased supplies needed, and prayed for a specific family at church who lost everything.

I praise the Lord for these teachable moments in both my life and my children's lives. I have to say that this was the first time that I was terrified for my family's life but had to hold it together enough to protect. I praise Him for His strength and power! And I praise the Lord for being together with my big sister when it all happened although I think she wishes her Spring break might have started a little differently!

Good Friday Sneak Peek

2011-04-25T05:00:00.001-04:00

We planned this special day over 3 months ago and had the appointment on our calendar. We went back and forth, back and forth on whether not to take the kids to the appointment but in the end decided not only to take our two but to invite my sister's family as well (they were stopping back through from their Spring Break trip).

And I am so glad we did. We were so excited to share this special day with our family and get to have a little glimpse of what Madelyn may look like when she makes her debut in just 9 short weeks.

I was unsure of how well we would get to see her because of her breech presentation but much to our surprise we found out she flipped Thursday night (I do not want to feel that pressure again!!). She is head down now!

The ultrasound tech immediately found her in 2D view and we saw her sweet profile, arms, legs, and confirmed once again she is a GIRL!

And then when she flipped the monitor to 3D, I was overwhelmed to say the least. Her beautiful little face appeared and the details were so neat to see.

Everyone loved seeing these glimpses of her face but especially Katelyn. She was so excited to be a part of this and get to "see" her sister!
She was scrunched up nice and tight and loved, loved, loved to put her hands up next to her face. The ultrasound tech kept tapping my belly to get her to move her arms/hands so we could really see her face. We all kept commenting how much we think she looks like Zachary. She definitely has her brother's nose (daddy's). As we kept talking about how much she looked like Zachary, Katelyn made a comment about her wanting Madelyn to look like her. Then Andy made the joke, "she will...from the waist down." Immediately, Madelyn smiled! She must like the fact that her daddy is a jokester already!

We're not sure if she is a thumb sucker but by the looks of this, she just might be...

More sweet grins made mama's heart melt immediately!

She continually crossed her hands and ankles throughout the session. Aunt Jenny teased that she is a proper Southern girl already and now she just has to add the big bows!

The ultrasound tech believes she has hair (which would be just like her brother and sister at delivery). We are just hoping it lays flat like Zachary's did and doesn't do the mohawk look like her big sis. What a special day it was to see our baby girl for the "first time."

Sweet Cheeks

2011-04-22T05:00:00.002-04:00

The last time we saw Madelyn she was 18 weeks (in utero) and she looked like this:

Today we get to see her (thanks to technology) in 3D/4D! I can't wait to see her facial features, fingers and toes! We never did this with the other two so we decided it would be something special to do with #3!

I showed Katelyn the difference on the computer of what she looked like the last time. I then prepared and showed her what kind of pictures we would see today. And to say that she is super duper excited would be an understatement. She beamed with a big ol' smile and then had a puzzled face which went along with, "But we won't get to see the color of her eyes!" I told her that she was correct and those are things that are surprises and we get to find out when she comes out of mommy's belly. She gave her opinion (which I agree 110%) that she hopes Madelyn has green eyes like mommy since Zachary and her have blue eyes like daddy.

I can't wait to get a little glimpse of Madelyn's sweet face today and only 9 weeks left till I get to stroke her little cheeks!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-20T05:00:00.000-04:00

(Thanks, Aunt Jenny!)

30 Weeks

2011-04-19T14:02:00.003-04:00

10 Weeks to go! We have moved from a Chinese cabbage to a large cabbage this week in size. Ugh--I really don't like cabbage! I had my 30 week appt this morning. It was uneventful but good. Those are always good visits. I gained a pound in the last two weeks. My BP was still good at 107/72 and Madelyn's heart rate was STRONG! The doctor I had today agreed with Dr. C. She is breech. She is almost certain she is head up, feet down. She felt her head and said "yup, definitely breech" and then she listened for her heartbeat. She had this puzzled look and said, "but her heartbeat is low in position for her to be breech?" So she felt for her head again (UNCOMFORTABLE--I might add!) She then followed up by saying, "No, I am 100% certain that is her head and she is head up...she must have a really strong heartbeat. Let's take it again and see if we can pick it up in a different spot." And she did! Her heart was beating strong everywhere she took it. So...I have 6 weeks to see if she will flip and then at 36 weeks, I get the option of a C-Section or for them to flip her externally/manually.

My blood sugars continue to rise. I have two weeks to get them down or I will be put on meds. Never had to take insulin with Zachary and I really don't want to with Madelyn...so we are power walking each night and I now have to be super strict like I was with Z with my diet! I have been somewhat more lax this time around sneaking a few sweets here and there if I had low numbers but now that's not an option--gotta lower those blood sugars.

Total Weight Gain: 16 lbs
Maternity Clothes: Realizing that I need to go buy some comfy shorts. I hate to buy stuff with only 10 weeks left but this stay at home momma needs comfy shorts and it is getting warmer outside!
Gender: GIRL! Madelyn Faith will make her debut in about 10 weeks!
Movement: Kicking and moving low which results in sudden bathroom runs--this breech thing has almost caused some embarassing moments. With her little feet being down, it's not always pretty!
What I miss: Being able to turn over in bed without sharp shooting pains
Cravings: No big ones right now... food in general is great!
Symptoms: Swollen feet
Best Moment this week: 3D ultrasound later in the week!