Let it Unfold

The First of Many

2009-05-08T05:59:00.001-07:00

Little knees always seem to get in the way. Yesterday was Mandy's first cut on her knee. We were outside playing and she was running on the driveway. She slipped and fell. She didn't cry but looked shocked, looked at me, looked at her knee and pointed to it quite outraged. During that moment, as a mom, you get a glimpse of what type of person your child will become and wonder how many boo boo's she going to have in her little life. Immediately your mind starts running thinking that is the first time her skin was broken. That brand new skin born not 2 years ago. That skin that was created by our creator with a perfection. What will that little leg see and do? Will she climb mountains, jump out of a plane? Will she dance? Will she run? Will she bounce her baby on her once chubby little boo boo knee? Only time will tell and all time heals wounds.

Crinkles on the Nose

2009-05-06T07:36:00.000-07:00

Mandy has been such an incredible blessing! She is getting so big and now is acting much more like a toddler than a baby! Where has the time gone? There are many things about Mandy I love one of which is her unrelenting smile. She always has a smile on her face. She flashes her two dimples, crinkles her nose and giggles. Life is a piece of pie all the time for her. Oh to be that innocent and young! The most important things for her is her mommy, daddy, pj (her doll), her blanket and of course any sort of ball! With those life is grand and nothing can go wrong. Without them she cries bitter tears. Security is important to my crinkly smiley girl! Amen for her!

It's Been a Year!

2008-10-27T11:58:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, many have asked, what happened to your blog? I have been so busy these last few months and will try to get at this more frequently.
I cannot believe it has been a year since Amanda entered our world! Mandy is such an incredible blessing! She is now walking all over and very proud of herself. Her official first birthday party had to be postponed due to a death in the family but we will be sharing our day with our friends and family in a week or so. But of course on her day we had to have a cake. Which, by the way, she enjoyed. Her favorite gift was the horse she received from Nana. Pictured below:

She has brought such joy to our lives. Below is a video of her first steps. Taken at Uncle Gord's house:

Molly and Katie are working hard at school and blossoming into beautiful young ladies. It's amazing to me that my oldest in 3rd grade and Katie is now in preschool and knows how to write all of her letters, well, at least by copying them. :)

Medimora-Hadley State Park

2008-07-21T14:27:00.000-07:00

On June 27th we went camping at Medimrora-Hadley State Park with two other families. We were worried because the forcast called for rain and cold weather. But we were blessed tremendously. On Friday night it rained while we were sleeping but the kids slept and in the morning it wasn't raining anymore. On Saturday, we went to the beach and went fishing! The weather was great, sunny and in the 80's. Katie enjoyed playing with her two best friends, Emily and Adrienne and they all seemed to get along really well. We cooked on the fire and had roasted corn and awesome burgers! Molly's favorite moment was catching her first fish and laying on the hill at night and watching the shooting stars with Daddy. Katie caught a fish too and was very proud to show it off! Kathy held it. Yuck! It was a great time.

First Tooth: My First Experience with Brushing

2008-07-06T18:57:00.000-07:00

Mandy finally popped her two bottom teeth. She has suffered so much with them. It is hard to imagine she her little face will change when she gets all of her teeth. Maybe by Christmas she will have her two front teeth. :)

TNT-Who What When Where and How

2008-06-03T15:52:00.000-07:00

Molly wrote this essay about her birthday. I was amazed that the one gift she liked the most was a book from Nana. Click on the picture and you can read it.

Don't You Wish it Could be that Easy?

2008-05-26T18:17:00.000-07:00

The other day, as usual we were busy going about our day. The birds were chirping, I was spring cleaning and Katie was watching her favorite show "Stanley." Then all of sudden..."Poof...Bham!" The power went out. Again. This has become a almost once a month occurance. Two weeks ago it happened before. Katie has become quite use to it. She signed and walked into the kitchen where I had finished sighing myself and she said..."Mommy, the TV went boom!" I said, "No the power went out honey, that was the transmitter you heard that made that noise. " She replied ever so non-chalently, "Oh just like before day that crazy squirrel munched the wire and got fried?" I chuckled at her response and told her that may be the case. A couple of minutes later she put up her finger and said eagerly, "MOMMY! Let's call Daddy, he can fix the TV and clocks and oven. He can fix the problem!"
Don't you wish it could be that easy?

I AM SO BUSY!

2008-05-23T13:06:00.000-07:00

I took these pictures one day when Mandy really started to scoot and try to crawl. She was very smiley that day.

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Mother Daughter Girl Scout Banquet

2008-05-23T11:53:00.000-07:00

It's hard to imagine that it has been one year since we went to the last Mother/Daughter Banquet. Molly has grown so much over the year. She is much more independent. She's really getting a cute personality.

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

2008-05-08T06:10:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

For Moms

2008-04-30T12:24:00.001-07:00

Before I was a Mom:

I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom:
I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom:
I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests or give
shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom:
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put her down.
I never felt my heart break into a milli on pieces when I couldn't stop
the hurt.
I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom:
I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.
I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important
and happy.

Before I was a Mom:
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to
make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache, the
wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much, before I was a Mom.

Send this to someone who you think is a special Mom.
Including the person who thought of you today and sent it to YOU!

I never knew how wonderful it w ould be to become a mom! Now I know how
my mom felt!

Molly's Baptism

2008-03-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

On March 10th, Molly chose to be baptized as a believer. All week prior, she was nervous and scared. Even though she was nervous, she insisted that she would tell her testimony. She wrote it on the computer and it was all of her words. It was very touching and to make it even better Mark baptized her. It is wonderful knowing that as much as you guide your children to make the right decisions this one, a very important one, was hers and hers alone. Praise God!

Blue Teddy

2008-03-25T11:45:00.001-07:00

Katie has a teddy blanket similar to this one. She has 2 pink ones, a white one and a blue one. They are very well loved. When Mandy was born, Nana took her out to get a gift for her. Of course she needed to get her a teddy. She picked out this one and it had to be blue because her blue one was her favorite. For the first 2 weeks every morning Katie would bust open our bedroom door, run to the cradle and put her teddy in next to Mandy. She insisted that she needed it. I walked into the living room where Mandy was sleeping in her swing and low and behold, her blue teddy was on top of her. Katie said Mandy asked her for it and then she fell asleep.

5 Months Old!

2008-03-25T10:22:00.001-07:00

It is hard to believe it has been 5 months since Mandy has entered the world. She is showing such personality now and rolling all over. She is eager to grab toys and is interested everything around her.

Sisters and Friends

2008-03-25T09:48:00.000-07:00

Molly and Katie bicker a lot but all in all they are best friends. Katie wants to be just like Molly and Molly gets irritated that Katie does everything Molly does. In these pictures they were being silly together. There newest wild thing to do is to do each other's hair. (Pictured as well) Wow what beauty queens!

Mandy Dedicated to the Lord

2008-03-25T09:41:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, March 10th we dedicated Amanda Grace. Unfortunately all of the other pictures didn't turn out very good so this was pretty much the only one that did. Oh well.

THE THUMB!

2008-03-25T09:33:00.001-07:00

Out of all of my girls, only Mandy has sucked her thumb. Molly and Katie didn't even take a pacifier. Mandy doesn't either all she wants is THE THUMB! She intensely sucks her thumb when she is hungry or her teeth are bothering her. She soothes herself to sleep and it is just adorable. She never cries a lot, except for when she is hungry or has a messy diaper. But when she does she goes from 0 to 10 in a second flat. So all I can say is thank goodness for THE THUMB!

New Business Venture

2008-03-24T08:07:00.001-07:00

As most of you know, I will do anything to earn extra cash, as long it is moral and legal. :) I have begun to sell my growth charts. I will be posting my growth charts to sell on ebay soon. It is fun and I love to paint, so what better way then to make money on things you enjoy to do. I am not sure where it will go, but I am taking the leap of faith and trying it out. If anyone needs a unique shower gift or child's gift let me know. I am also up for painting letters (for names), and switch plates.

Katie Jr.

2008-03-24T08:00:00.001-07:00

Here we are, 4 years later and we had to pull out the nebulizer! Mandy came down with RSV. She was pretty sick. Apparently she wants to follow in her sister's footsteps and become accustomed to the breathing treatments. Fortunately, she wasn't in need of it for long. She also came down with a UTI and has to take antibiotics, so they are suspecting kidney reflux like Katie. They will be doing testing the second week in April. In the meantime, we just have to laugh and say, "do you have to not only look like Katie but follow in her footsteps?"

The Party Planners

2008-03-24T07:55:00.001-07:00

My two sweeties love to make parties for Mark and me. They love to go in the basement make table cloths, napkin rings and meals to make a special party for us. They so proud! It means so much to them....it is almost as if it were real. How sweet they are!

I DON'T NEED A NAP ANYMORE!

2008-03-24T07:47:00.001-07:00

Recently we have come to the conclusion that Katie is no longer in need of naps. Mommy still is, but she really does fine without one. So our newest thing is to call it rest time. It doesn't make it easier for her because she still doesn't like to be in her room alone and rest. One day I gave her a choice to have a rest and read books in her bed or stay on the couch and read there. She chose the couch because she was "not tiered." I went about my business and tidied up the house. It got very quiet and I peaked on her and low and behold, she was asleep while reading her books. I had to take a picture. One of the sweetest things about this picture is the paint on her arm. She had a busy day....but she wasn't tiered!

MANDY

2008-02-07T07:39:00.000-08:00

Mandy is now just shy of 4 month and is a pretty hungry already. I decided to try her with her first food. We had tried rice cereal and she didn't seem to care for it too much. So we tried the alternative...sweet potatoes. She wasn't too sure of it and ended up loving it after the fourth bite.

Happy Birthday to Me!

2008-02-07T06:50:00.000-08:00

Wow another year has gone by and now I am officially in my mid thirties. It is funny how you tend to forget how old you are the older you get. I had to think about what I was turning this year with myself. Wierd. Well this is what has changed since I was 33.

1. I have a third addition to my home
2. I have made it through another pregnancy and birth
3. I have managed to loose my pregnancy weight and then some
4. My baby started 2nd grade and lost her front tooth
5. My middle baby is no longer a baby but a four year old preschooler
6. I dealt with the loss of my father and things that have been eating at me for years
7. My friendship with Christ has grown stronger
8. I love my husband more than last year (which is a lot since it was a lot last year:) )
9. I love my job
10. Life is good and rich

Overall, 33 was a great year.

New Year's Resolutions

2008-01-11T11:36:00.000-08:00

My New Year's Resolution this year is to keep my New Year's Resolutions that have built up over the years! Ie. keep my house tidier, loose the weight after the twins, by the way that was resolution 2003 and two kids and 5 pregnancies later! He he! I thought I would get those accomplished before I added more on my seemingly ever growing plate!

On a serious note...I had a great 2007! I started out with my prayers answered when I found I was pregnant with Mandy and had her 9 months later! She is my miracle and continues to amaze me every day! Molly has grown to be a little lady and has some deep philosophical talks with me and Katie made me smile every day! We have been truly blessed!

My First Gym Class!

2008-01-11T11:13:00.000-08:00

For the first time, Mandy and I were able to do a fun activity together alone. I didn't realize that was the case, that I hadn't done anything alone with her until last Wednesday. My friend Tricia and Maria went to "My Gym" and we played on the equipment and Mandy, after spitting up from stretching too much, ha, ha, had a great time! Her favorite was the swing which is pictured below. Caden, Sherri and Mandy are all one month apart. Should be fun watching them grow!

Look at Me!

2008-01-04T14:27:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe my baby is 2 1/2 months! Her personality has just started to come out. She smiles more than any of my other children. She tried out her seat and thought it was the neatest thing to be sitting upright. Her neck is getting so strong. Today Katie was watching Sesame Street and Mandy was in her bouncy seat. She strained her head around to watch Cookie Monster and smiled. She even let out a giggle.

Christmas Time

2007-12-19T10:53:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

The girls had their pictures taken for Christmas and the shot of all three of them turned out okay, after trying to get all three perfect dozens of times. On the bottom, Mandy's first/1 mo. picture turned out beautiful. Believe it or not, immediately after this was taken, she cried bitter tears.

What Cheesey Grin! Work it Baby!

2007-11-24T12:04:00.001-08:00

Mandy finally flashed her smile in full force today! Katie and I were talking to her and she started flashing her smile and I almost didn't bother getting the camera because I never believed that she would smile once she saw it. I was wrong and I am glad I was. I got this beautiful shot and about 5 others! I almost started to cry because she is so beautiful and had such a jolly face! Her personality is coming out! After all, she is already 6 weeks yesterday! Wow time flies!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2007-11-24T12:03:00.001-08:00

Welcome to the Christmas Season!

2007-11-23T19:14:00.001-08:00

We thought this was a funny picture and my mom put it together in a scrapbook page. After, she is the joy of our lives.

Welcome Princess Amanda! Princesses Forever!

2007-11-21T18:04:00.000-08:00

Molly got to feed Mandy for the first time. She thought it was such a big thing! Afterwards she made her a crown and said she was the littlest princess of the Thibault family and she deserved a crown! Welcome Princess Amanda!

Friends Forever!

2007-11-14T18:28:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, some of us went to Chuckie Cheese and had a great time. Here are some pictures of our friend time!

Ever Wonder What He Looks Like?

2007-11-07T07:29:00.001-08:00

I know you have probably talked to him....but I thought you'd might like to see what he looked like! He he!

It's Hard Work to Get my Eyes Working Mama!

2007-11-06T14:18:00.000-08:00

This was the first set of pictures I have gotten for Mandy that she was so incredibly alert! She was really trying hard to focus on the rattle that Katie had put in her bed with her. It is amazing how fast they grow!

Halloween!!

2007-11-06T13:48:00.001-08:00

Halloween 2007: Halloween ended up going well and pretty smooth considering I was only 2 1/2 weeks post pardum. Molly was a Geisha girl, Katie was Minnie Mouse, which 2 of her friends were and Little peanut Mandy was a clown. Mandy was great, she didn't cry at all and enjoyed the walk even though it was only 4 or so houses. Katie was totally interested in trick or treating but wasn't impressed at all with the haunted house down the street. Molly was thrilled and loved the haunted house. Quite a difference from last year. They all got so much candy...which is such a temptation for me, since I have been off candy for 4 or 5 months! Pray I have some will power!

Holding On

2007-11-05T07:07:00.000-08:00

Do you ever want to hold your children back from growing up and you find that they are like holding a wet bar of soap? I have been doing a lot of thinking now that our family is complete at 5, that my little babies are growing so fast and their innocence is changing to realistic ideas of the world. It is sad but in the same sense, it is so encouraging how God will use them in this world to make it a better place and how comforting it is to know that their little voices are heard by our Him and He will mold them according to His will. I need not worry...they are in His hands!

Number One Doctor!

2007-11-05T06:31:00.000-08:00

This was my doctor for all of my girls! She has been through all 8 pregnancies with me and been such a great doctor! It is kinda sad that I will only going back to her to see her once a year! And not a pleasant reason either! :) She was very pleased that she had seen me through all three girls and was tickled I wanted to take her picture with Mandy. Ever need a good OB/GYN give me a call.

She's Crying Again???

2007-10-29T07:47:00.000-07:00

Life has been, shall we say, an adjustment the last two weeks. Thank God that it seems to get better everyday! We ventured out to the grocery store on Saturday and you would think we were first time parents. Mark was a little overwhelmed with both our children pushing mini-carts in the store and me paying attention to the baby and I had my overwhelming moment when I went to church with all three kids yesterday. Wow, three is a lot when you have two other children demanding your attention. Molly and Katie have been so good at adjusting, but it is obvious how much time they need with me since Mandy has been born. Both girls have been dealing with it in different ways. Katie has been clingy and wants to cuddle a lot and Molly has been withdrawn and staying out of things for the most part. She also gets very uptight when Mandy cries. We have been very blessed with friends and family that have gone out of their way to help with meals, laundry, cleaning and taking Katie for a playdate, it has made life so much easier. However, I am ready to start my life again on the normal path. Whatever "normal" is. Today I am going to the doctor and hopefully she will give me the okay to start driving again. That will be a huge relief for us! At least I can shop!!!! Which is a great way to relieve stress I have to say, but not too good on the pocket book.

Wow Already Two Weeks

2007-10-26T17:35:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that Mandy is turning two weeks tomorrow! She hasn't changed much yet. Her schedule is adjusting. She is now eating at 1 am and the last two nights she hasn't gotten up until 5 or 5:30 am for her next feeding. So we are stretching it out and I am starting to get a little more sleep. Mandy went to her doctor's appointment today and she is growing well. She is now 9 pounds 5 oz. and apparently nursing is not a problem. She is gaining and growing. Makes mommy feel better. We also, after 2 weeks found a bottle that seems to work for her at night and she is resting better after her night time feedings. Also this week, Mandy had her first sponge bath at home and didn't like it at all! You would think I was torturing her. But she did love the cuddling after. We are all enjoying her...but infants are exhausting I am fastly remembering. Katie adores her and constantly says she loves her little sister. Molly thinks she is so cute, but stays away when she cries. I don't think she is as convinced as Katie yet. Over all, the Thibaults are starting to settle in a little more everyday and by next week I think we will adjust that much more. These times do fly...I have to remember that.

SHE'S FINALLY HERE!!!

2007-10-18T09:22:00.000-07:00

On October 13th, 2007, Amanda Grace Thibault came into our lives. She weighed 8 pounds 10 oz., 21 1/2inches and apparently she was too big for mommy to deliver. She is very different than her sisters, she was in no rush to come out in this crazy world. After a crazy, long labor, we gave up and had to have a c-section. She came out with a beautiful shaped head and was crying and all pink! Mommy was given general anesthetic so she didn't see her first come out, but, Daddy had a moment all to himself to watch the Red Wing game with her and cuddle with a bottle. We have been so blessed!

ANY DAY NOW??? HMM, WE'LL SEE!

2007-10-11T05:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went to my routine doctor's appointment. And as most of you know, I have been having the worlds longest labor. I am now up to almost 4 weeks of contractions at least 10 minutes apart if not closer. Up until now, they have done nothing to change my cervix or make me closer to labor. Very frustrating and exhausting. Needless to say, yesterday I told the doctor that if he told me I was still dilated to 1 1/2 I would scream. Luckily for him and the office he triumphantly told me I was dilated to a 3 1/2! Yeah! Finally! All these crazy contractions weren't for nothing! He then told me it could be a matter of days before I had Mandy. Hmmm, I have heard that before. I mean wasn't it my doctor that told me, "oh Jen, don't worry about the size of the baby, you won't go past 37 weeks anyway," or "don't bother making an appointment more than to the end of September because you'll have to cancel it anyway," or even, "yep, you're at 1 1/2 and have been to the hospital twice pre-term, should be any day, we got you to 37 weeks!" Well, I am not too convinced when a doctor tells me, "any day now!" Once again, God has shown me how it is in His time not anyone elses! I am glad she is full term but, boy, I sure am welcoming labor now. Looks like all of you that guessed 38 or 39 weeks are in the running, but let's not rule out those funny people who claim I will go 40 weeks! Only time will tell. Week 38 people, you have today and Friday. 39 weeks starts Saturday. Sorry all of you nice people that lovingly thought I would go at 37 weeks!

Ahhh, Life is Good!

2007-10-11T05:39:00.001-07:00

Katie loves to get her picture taken. Whenever she sees a camera out, she has to jump in front of it. Yesterday, my mom bought me a new digital camera. It was the exact one I wanted and she told me..."you realize this is Mandy's camera," because Mandy has everything so my mom got us a camera instead. Of course Katie overheard this and when I was explaining to Mark where the camera came from, Katie piped in the middle of conversation and said, "no mommy, you silly, it's Amanda's camera!" Boy nothing gets past her!

She's Not a Baby Anymore!

2007-10-11T05:23:00.000-07:00

With labor fast approaching, I have remembered all of my labors and the anticipation of meeting your child for the first time. I have been especially been looking back at my pregnancy with Molly and all of the thoughts and worries I had with her. I expected her to be so different, but yet, the same as she is. It's funny how your initial ideas of their personality are changed and forgotten so quickly and acceptance of who they are overtakes any preconceived notions. Molly is not my baby by any means. She is concerned for me and my health. Every groan of every contraction I do not hide from her there is a show of concern on her little 7 1/2 year old face, which follows with, "Mommy is that baby pushing on your privates???" At that moment, I realize she is not as naive as I think she is. Then of course I wonder, where in the world did she hear that and what is her idea of pregnancy and birth? It is such a guessing game of just how much information you should give her. You don't want to give her too much because she may get worried, but not too little because she may get the wrong idea and worry about that. Hmmm, parenting isn't all that easy once they grow and get their own ideas and mind. It is very neat to watch your baby girl start growing into an empathetic little girl that is getting closer to joining the women's club.

Jen's Conversation with God

2007-09-27T17:38:00.000-07:00

God and I have had a certain conversation for many, many years now. It is only now that I am beginning to hear Him. Now mind you, I said, hear him, not necessarily listen. (Although, I am forever trying to change that.) Our conversation has been a small whisper from Him for example, He says, "No, not now...", or "Jen...you are not in control...I am." Sometimes the whisper turns into a firm statement and at times in my life it has been a desperate (as desperate as God could ever be) call to me to remember who is in control. Always has His whisper and calls been loving and steadfast, never out of anger or out of irritation. He has been forever loving, just, comforting and true. So during this pregnancy He has whispered ever so gently all nine months to me to stay quiet and listen. Our conversations go like this...

"Oh my gosh, I am pregnant, God, I can't take another miscarriage! Please spare me!" Jen pleaded
"My dear child...don't you know by now I will get you through anything?" God replied.
"But God, I have to try to remain calm because I am going to keep this baby, you wouldn't let me loose again, it must be part of Your plan."
"Wait...you'll see. I am in control." God said
"Lord Jesus, please help me not to worry, I am on my knees and my heart is beating faster as I wait to get a glimpse of your creation on this ultrasound screen. Please, please Lord I will not be able to loose again. I am not strong enough. Please let there be a hearbeat."
"It's okay....I am in control. I can and will get you through anything. Don't you know that by now."
"Oh Jesus please help me to trust your promises of strength to endure all things through You." I begged. "Why do I have to have placenta previa....I always have to have something. Can't I just have a normal pregnancy?"
"Shhhh, it's okay. I am here and always will be."
"God today my perfect pregnancy is over. I have gestational diabetes and now I may not deliver in the natural birthing center. This is not the way I planned it Lord."
"Jennifer, don't you know what I have planned for you? Trust me."
"Oh God, please don't let me have this baby early. I can't handle another thing. I shouldn't be contracting at 33 weeks. I didn't plan it this way. I can't have this baby until at least 34!"
"Jen, just wait."
"Praise God, I have made it to 36 weeks! Now I can have this baby as I have planned in the natural birthing center and I am ready to go now Lord. Any day now!"
"Shhh...listen...it is my plan."
"Oh Lord I am not ready for this pain. I have been having 5 days of contractions and I am off to the hospital. This is it! Lord help me get through this, and thank you for helping get what I wanted...to get to 36 weeks!"
"Oh my gosh! What do they mean, Lord that I haven't progressed. After all those contractions, I just want to have this baby safe in my arms Lord. We have waited so long!"
"Jen...wait. In my time she will be here. She is safe."
"Okay God, I get it. It has been 4 days since I was in the hospital and apparently all of these contractions aren't doing a hoot to get things going. I am almost 37 weeks and I am not progressing since Sunday. Wouldn't you know it, we are so prepared for her arrival. I've left work on maternity, her room is ready, my bags are packed...Lord what's the hold up?"
"Shhh, Jen, I have created her, I have created you. I know your life and how it will go and hers too. Enjoy your pregnancy you have so desired. I am giving this child to you. She will arrive when I say she will. Do you understand now that I am in control? You don't have anything to do with it. It is a blessing for all women to carry My creation close to their hearts. So please enjoy it."

Fooled Ya!

2007-09-25T07:09:00.001-07:00

On Sunday the 23rd. , after 3 days of contractions, 5 minutes apart, we headed to the hospital and were sent home. Apparently, Mandy is playing games. They did an ultrasound and she looks great but she is not ready to make her grand entrance into the world yet. That is fine with mommy and daddy, she's not quite term yet. We'll keep you posted. By the way, make sure you take our latest poll to the right.

Update on Mandy

2007-09-20T09:02:00.001-07:00

The latest news on Mandy. I went to the doctor yesterday and she checked me and I am progressing. I am only dilated to 1 1/2 but she said I am pretty soft. Basically she said to prepare for next week. The contractions have subsided a little but last night they were pretty intense, but were not in a pattern. My doctor keeps saying I am going to go early, but ya know, I wonder. This will be the time that I go 4o weeks. Please just hope and pray that Mandy doesn't make an appearance until after Sunday night of this week. Monday would be good. I will be into my 36 week. Otherwise anytime after that is fine too. We are very excited that it is getting close. It is amazing that it has gone so fast. Soon there will be a little baby in the Thibault household.

Katie and Mommy

2007-09-20T08:57:00.000-07:00

My mom took this picture of me and Katie. It was taken at the spree fireworks.

Our Downtown Trip Before School Starts!

2007-09-14T17:27:00.001-07:00

MOMMY AND KATIE TIME; KATIE IS SILLY!!!

2007-09-08T09:17:00.000-07:00

MOLLY'S FIRST DAY OF SECOND GRADE

2007-09-08T09:12:00.000-07:00

Boy Am I Nesting!

2007-09-05T14:25:00.001-07:00

They aren't kidding when they say you hit your 3rd trimester and start nesting. I don't think I nested quite as crazy as I have this time. This a picture of the junk we have thrown out from our house. This, by the way, is the 5th garbage day since I have started throwing stuff away. Did we really need all this stuff??? Nope....don't think so. I feel so free now!

School's Next Week!

2007-08-31T06:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Molly found out who her teacher would be. We happy to see that it was the one teacher we have been praying she would get. Mr. Risko. She also has one of her good friends in her class. She is thrilled, although disapointed that her best friend is not in there with her. We are so looking forward to this school year. I have heard he is energetic and enthusiastic and that he is excellent with the kids. Yeah! So thanks to everyone who has been praying along with us.

POLL RESULTS IN!!!!

2007-08-29T06:16:00.000-07:00

The poll results are in! After 2 weeks at the polls people seem to think that Mandy will be between 7 lbs 9 oz to 8 lbs. Bless you all that voted for that! He he! 44% voted that way, and second was 7 lbs to 7lbs 8 oz at 33% and in last place, thank goodness was at 22% of voters was 8 lbs to 9lbs. Thanks for voting but I think I will pray with the 44%!

What is going on with some people????

2007-08-23T10:05:00.000-07:00

Okay, as much as I love my OB office sometimes I wonder what communication is going on there. Today was the first time I saw my doctor since I found out I have gest. diabetes. She asked me why my endocrinologist tested me for what they usually test full fledge diabetics. I told her because they said I had diabetes cuz that is what the nurse told me from the OB office. She said, "no...you are just intollerant, only 1 out of your 3 tests came back abnormal! She went on to say that they were just cautious now with people that are borderline and I needed to test every 4 hours and watch my diet. Ultimately she said she wasn't overly concerned and my numbers looked good. I am very relieved but I am irritated that the nurse at the OB said I was diabetic, and I specifically asked. Hmmm? What was she thinking?

I Have Proof!

2007-08-21T06:18:00.001-07:00

You know the saying, when a husband comes home and says, "Honey I caught a BIG one!" and the wife replies, "Sure honey, that's nice." Meanwhile thinking that men always exagerate on size! Anyway, Mark, his brother and father went fishing on Houghton Lake and Mark was lucky and caught a big 19 inch bass. Here is proudly pictured with his new friend. Unfortunitely in the same trip his sliced his had after catching the fish and had to have 12 stiches so there was no time for gutting and fileting the fish so we weren't able to eat it. Bummer!

I FEEL OLD

2007-08-21T05:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I felt so old. I felt like I had a 55 year medical history when I only have a 33. I didn't realize how much medically I had been through in my short life until I went to a new endocronologist and laid out my history in detail. Wow! It makes you think eh? I also went to the dietian and nurse regarding my gestational diabetes and that was "fun." I love poking my finger! It's a little nerve racking and I am worried that I will end up with either a ceseran or having to be induced, both of which I have been praying not to have to do. But...I just want Mandy to be healthy that's the most important thing, not how she comes out. The good news is that my blood sugar came back great all day, except for the McDonalds I had to get on the way inbetween appointments. Just a word of advice, McDonalds really shoots up your blood sugar!!!! Wow! All of you should see the documentary on HBO called, "Super Sized." It is very true! And I just had what the dietian said I could did not have a big meal!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MOMMY AND DADDY!

2007-08-14T10:05:00.000-07:00

Today was Mark and my anniversary! Molly and Katie made a surprise for us. They decorated the coffee table with paperplates, homemade napkin holders, and umbrella drinks. The main course was Fiber One and for desert, marshmellows! It was all put neatly into coffee filters and we were asked to make a picture with the cereal and the marshmellows on the paperplate. We had a party and watched Scooby Doo! They were very inventive, unfortunitely Katie ate Marks meal! :(

Here we go....

2007-08-14T09:47:00.000-07:00

Okay so I pretty much knew that life was going pretty smoothly when, "boom," a little bump in the road. After my 3 hour glucose tolerance test they called me 2 days later and told me that I in fact had gestational diabetes! Oh joy! In the whole grand scheme of things, it really isn't bad. The baby is safe and I am borderline so I don't have to be on insulin at this point. I am going to meet with a nurse and a dietitian on Monday the 20th and I should have some clear answers on how to deal with this. I am concerned because the Mandy is already fairly big for her age....but I am sure it will be controlled and she won't grow too excessively.

On a good note, Mark's last day is tomorrow and he will be starting his new job on the 20th. We are all really excited to be getting back into a normal schedule (8-5) instead of night shifts, day shifts etc... Life will start to get a little calmer at least until Mandy arrives!

MARK GOT THE JOB!!!

2007-08-07T12:47:00.000-07:00

Mark just signed his offer agreement with the property management company downtown. What a blessing so far! They seem to be a fair and a professional company. Today I arrived home to find a man knocking on my door with a gift basket of goodies from the company! The card stated: "Changing jobs can be difficult, we are glad you chose us! Welcome!" I couldn't believe the amount of respect and generosity has shown us already. Most companies wouldn't ever send a gift to welcome you. We are thrilled, Mark has needed this for a long time. He is excited about starting his new job and working downtown. We have been very blessed!

SILLY MOLLY

2007-08-06T14:33:00.001-07:00

Molly asked me, of course at 11pm how she was different than Katie, other than brown eyes and brown hair. Why do those in depth conversations always occur when it is hours past their bedtime? As tiered as I was last night I unfortunately didn't take the opportunity to tell her how special she was and uniquely different and told her we would talk about it tomorrow. It made me think after I left the room just how different she is. Molly is a type of kid that has to understand the world. The world needs to be fair and if it is not she wants to change it either by voicing her ideas to change it or protesting that it shouldn't be that way. Molly is kind. When a friend is hurting she will feel for them and try to comfort them. Molly is determined with certain friends to help them understand who Jesus is and sticks to it even if she doesn't mention it to them anymore by asking them to VBS or church. Molly is in tuned with who God is and why He is important, an envy of every adult, she has a childlike faith. My biggest prayer for Molly is that people see her through God's eyes and sees the uniquely beautiful little lady He is beginning to form and that she will always keep her faith. How is she different than Katie? It is hard to say since Katie has not formed her personality completely yet being so much younger than her. Molly has a lot more energy than Katie, she is very outgoing while Katie takes a different approach. Katie has more of a quiet demeanor while Molly is very much in the front of everyone and isn't afraid to show herself. Molly is sensitive but doesn't take on others feelings where as Katie does. All these unique qualities will hopefully make her a strong person and feel good about herself. I have heard more experienced moms say that you love your children all differently and I never realized that until recently. I love them both equally, but definitely differently. They are both joys.

SILLY KATIE

2007-08-06T12:51:00.000-07:00

My newest pursuit to earn some money, while having fun is painting growth charts. Yes, my friend Sally has me "almost" convinced to sell my charts on ebay. We'll see. They are fun to make though I must say. So, while I was taking a picture of one of my growth charts of course Katie had to take a picture and she really hammed it up! Katie has been so hilarious lately, she has been such a joy to be around. Everything is silly and exciting and she beams her winning smile for no other reason but because you may have looked her direction. Last week, Katie slipped on the bottom step and hit her head on the corner of the wall. 1 trip to the ER and 1 staple later, she proved herself to be a trooper. She barely cried and even though she was scared to death of the CAT scan, she pretended she was a astronaut on a spaceship. This last Friday she had her staple removed and cried very little. What strong little lady she is becoming.

Baby Face.....Mandy's Latest

2007-08-02T17:32:00.001-07:00

Mandy is showing her face! At almost 29 weeks I went for my ultrasound today. Mandy looked like a little baby! It is amazing the difference 10 weeks make. In the picture to the left the tech got a great face shot. You can almost see her chubby cheeks. Mandy is not lacking in growth. At 29 weeks she is estimated to weigh 3.5 pounds! Lord help me, she will be a big baby! They checked my placenta and praise the Lord it has moved to safe position! There is no problem with the position, I can have a normal delivery. Molly and Katie were there to see the ultrasound and they thought it was so great! When I asked Katie what she liked she said she liked the "bump, bump" (the heart and the heartbeat) and her head. Molly thought her face was soooo cute and she can't wait to be a big sister for the 2nd time. Katie is intrigued that she will not only be a little sister but a big sister too. We did double check and there is no doubt she is definitely a Mandy (girl). It was pretty obvious. Sorry Mark! Nah, Mark is thrilled to have 3 beautiful daughters. Life has been pretty blessed lately for our family. New job prospects for Mark, and a unbelievable healthy, uneventful pregnancy! We couldn't ask for anything more.

Where is God?

2007-07-19T11:03:00.000-07:00

Katie and I were have a discussion about God the other day. She asked where God lived. I told her that He lived most of the time in heaven but He is so special that He can be anywhere He wants at the same time. She said, "Molly has God in her heart. " I said, "she sure does." Then Katie replied, "God isn't in my heart." I asked where He was? She said, "Mommy he is just above my belly button.

Having Fun in the Pool

2007-07-19T10:56:00.001-07:00

July 4th, 2007 We had our family from Ireland over to celebrate with us. The girls swam. It was kinda chilly but, hey, whoever said that kids feel the cold, especially when it's swimming! Molly has finally got back her skills that she had last year in swimming and Katie has really taken to the water. As you can see in this picture, she is thouroughly enjoying herself. Mark and I were hesitant at first about getting a pool, but we are so glad that we did it. We have gotten so much enjoyment out it. We just wish it would warm up again.

I know, I know, It's Been a Long Time....

2007-07-15T08:31:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for caring so much about reading my blog. I have been told by many that they have missed it and one friend even told me I was on "blog alert!" So I am taking myself off alert and getting back in the saddle. I have been extremely busy the last month. Molly and Katie both have had busy summers with swimming and gymnastics camps and work has kept me busy, which I like. Recently I had my cousins from Ireland come to visit and that was a treat. They were a delight and it was a much needed time to hang out with family. It is neat to see the distance in our cultures and the similarities. I think sometimes I just assume that everyone has the same things around the world because it is so familiar to us. My digital camera broke and I am lost without it. I had so many cute pictures I would like to have put on here. But I can't wait any longer, I need to at least write something on this blog. I have added a new link on the left....prayer requests. If you could take some time and read them it would be greatly appreciated. They are prayer requests for my family, myself and my friends. If you have anything you would like to add to the list please make comment or email me and I will pray for you and/or add you to my list. I will post again in the next day or so.

2007-06-11T10:55:00.000-07:00

Let your heart feel for the afflictions
and distress of everyone, and let your hand
give in proportion to your purse.
(George Washington)

BUSY MOM SYNDROME

2007-06-09T07:46:00.000-07:00

I thought this was really funny and very true.  Mark will come home 
some days and ask me what I have done and this has been all too many 
times my thoughts.   But I just tell him....I really don't know.


This is how it manifests:      

I decide to water my lawn.

As I turn on the hose in the driveway, I look over at my car and
decide my car needs washing.

As I start toward the garage, I notice that there is mail
on the porch table that I brought up from the mail box earlier.

I decide to go through the mail before I wash the car.

I lay my car keys down on the table, put the junk mail
in the garbage canunder the table, and notice that the
can is full.

So, I decide to put the bills back on the table and
take out the garbage first.

But then I think, since I'm going to be near the
mailbox when I take out the garbage anyway, I may as
well pay the bills first.

I take my check book off the table, and see that
there is only one check left.

My extra checks are in my desk in the study, so I go
inside the house to my desk where I find the can of Coke that
I had been drinking.

I'm going to look for my checks, but first I need to
push the Coke aside so that I don't accidentally knock it over.

I see that the Coke is getting warm, and I decide I should
put it in the refrigerator to keep it cold.

As I head toward the kitchen with the Coke a vase of
flowers on the counter catches my eye - they need to be watered.

I set the Coke down on the counter, and I discover my
reading glasses that I've been searching for all morning.

I decide I better put them back on my desk, but first I'm going
to water the flowers.

I set the glasses back down on the counter, fill a container
with water and suddenly I spot the TV remote.

Someone left it on the kitchen table.

I realize that tonight when we go to watch TV, I will be looking
for the remote, but I won't remember that it's on the kitchen
table, so I decide to put it back in the living room where it belongs,
but first I'll water the flowers.

I pour some water in the flowers, but quite a bit of it spills
on the floor.



So, I set the remote back down on the table, get some towels
and wipe up the spill.

Then I head down the hall trying to remember what I was planning to do.



At the end of the day -

the lawn isn't watered, the car isn't washed, the bills
aren't paid, there is a warm can of Coke sitting on
the counter, the flowers don't have enough water, there
is still only one check in my check book, I can't find
the remote, I can't find my glasses, I don't remember
what I did with the car keys, and my neighbor called to
tell me he turned off the hose that was flooding the driveway. 
Then when I try to figure out why nothing got done today,
I'm really baffled because I know I was busy all day long,
and I'm really tired. I realize this is a serious problem,
and I'll try to get some help for it, but first I'll check
my e-mail.

Author unknown

MOMMY THE CARPET IS MOVING!

2007-06-01T06:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Katie became aware of what it was really like to be dizzy! It was the cutest revelation I have ever seen! I had music playing and she was, as usual, dancing in circles. She was spinning faster and faster then all of sudden when she stopped she jumped back and got really scared and tried to stumble (due to dizziness) in my arms. I asked her what was wrong. She said it was scary. I asked what was scary and she said. Mommy! I can't dance anymore on there! I asked her where she couldn't dance and she replied, I can't dance on the carpet anymore it is moving see! I had to chuckle at her revelation and sat down with her and asked her to let me know when the carpet stopped. When it did I tried to explain to her in three year old terms what happens when we get dizzy etc... That seemed to satisfy her and she proudly danced again. I asked her if she was going to spin and she said "yeah, but not fast mommy!"

Wave Has Subsided

2007-05-30T12:45:00.000-07:00

All I have to say is thank God for my doctor! She is so what I need! I had an appointment today and she walked in and said, "whatever you heard the 25th disregard!" She proceeded to tell me that her colleagues were more conservative than she is and felt there was no reason for me to be on bedrest any longer. She put a few restrictions still but all very small. My doctor seems to think that I have 90% chance of the placenta rising and not causing any problem. Mandy sounded great and Katie was there to hear the heartbeat...boy did she think that was neat! What a relief! So I am now feeling less stressed and am insisting that I enjoy this pregnancy! I need to not deprive myself of feeling the joy that God has blessed us with.

A NEW WAVE

2007-05-29T06:55:00.000-07:00

Our house hold has experienced a tiny wave in the past couple of days. I have found out I have placenta previa and they want me on bedrest. It has taken our wind out of our sails a bit because I have been feeling so great I really didn't want to stop and take a rest. But, apparently I have to, which can be rather frustrating. I am talking to my doctor tomorrow and will find out how long term this will be. I have talked to various people that have had placenta previa and they have had comforting words and have been an encouragement. It's nice to know that someone else has been through it and has been successful. It's just another bump in the road which I am optimistic we will weather.

MORE PICTURES

2007-05-24T17:50:00.001-07:00

Amanda was constantly going back to playing peek-a-boo with her hands across her face, it was very cute. In the other picture of course she was showing off her little foot. Her video tape had a great picture of both of them next to one another neatly. We are very excited about her arrival but we are patiently waiting.

IT'S OFFICIAL PEANUT'S IDENITY HAS BEEN REVEALED

2007-05-24T16:41:00.001-07:00

After a long wait Peanut's idenity has been revealed! Peanut will forever be known as Amanda! Yes it is true...the Thibaults are having another girl! Looks like the winners of our poll are Nana, the Mama, and Uncle Gord! Amanda, "Mandy" is absolutely beautiful! She was a stinker...it wasn't until 3 minutes before we left that she revealed her idenity but I had a good talking to her when I walked to get her moving! Her heart was strong and we could see the four chambers. All of her parts were there and she is measuring exactly where she is supose to be! We are relieved and excited about our new little girl! More pictures to come....but I thought I wouldn't keep you all waiting for any longer.

What an Emotional Week So Far!

2007-05-22T12:30:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that I am 18 1/2 weeks pregnant. It doesn't seem real to me but in the same sense it does. I think after five miscariages I have learned defense mechanisms. It is hard to not believe anymore because it is apparent their is something kicking me lately and it is not my husband while we are sleeping. Peanut has been very active the last couple of days and whenever I have a moment where I think there is something wrong he/she will wiggle and kick. What an incredible blessing! You would think that this is my first pregnancy! I cry over everything! The baby hiccuped for the first time yesterday and I got teary eyed because it will not be the last time he will hiccup. Soon he will hiccup air and have an absolutely adorable sound while he/she will be doing it. I cry when I read on a website I frequent, that he/she is 6 inches long, is starting grow hair and is swallowing. I think of all the pavement he/she's little legs will travel and what kinds of foods he/she will be swallowing. The funniest yet was today my friend Cathy came over and brought the baby swing I was buying from her and I looked at it in my living room and got teary eyed just imagining a small little baby rocking in that swing and I couldn't imagine that I could have third different personality in my children. Every little step feels new and I cannot wait to stop calling peanut he/she. I am excited for my ultrasound but a little anxious about the health of the baby. I have to put that aside and remember to trust. I am grateful for the opportunity God has given me to have a feeling of innocence of pregnancy instead of constant worry....which I could have easily done. I am grateful that after all we have been through he has blessed us abundantly over and over.

TOOTHLESS WONDER!

2007-05-22T12:20:00.001-07:00

It finally came out! Praise God! For the last month Molly has had a wiggly front tooth and the last couple of weeks it was rather deformed. Finally at school, her friend told her she should just twist and pull! She came home and proudly showed off her little baby tooth. I could not help but remember when that little tooth came in! I was so excited and noticed quickly how it changed her face and smile! Now we are in the next stage of big teeth for a tiny head. She'll be so cute! I can't wait for her grown up smile. But I have to admitt....it is bittersweet that she has a tooth coming that will be with her for a long time!

SUMMER HAS BEGUN!

2007-05-22T12:10:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday night we had our first fire of the summer/spring. Katie had her first smore and decided she didn't like the marshmallows. (even though you can see that she didn't mind them enough that it was in her mouth) The girls were very good about sitting on the swing and not getting up without asking due to us sitting close to the fire. Fire saftey was number one according to Molly! Molly of course thought the highlight of the evening was the endless smores she thought she was going to have and Katie liked just the chocolate and crackers! Mommy liked all of them very much! Hmmm! Mommy loves to be pregnant sometimes!

A LOVE/IRRITATE THING

2007-05-22T12:02:00.001-07:00

Molly and Katie don't always get a long. With their ages being spread appart it makes it difficult. Molly doesn't always understand a three year old and their instability and impulsiveness and Katie wants to do whatever Molly wants to do. So they conflict. Yet, if I seperate them...oh boy watch out....here come the tears! They hate to be appart. Often I find them giggling away like I did in these pictures on our back swing. Then I see a light and realize just how wonderful it is be sisters!

MY VERY OWN BALANCE BEAM!

2007-05-22T11:51:00.001-07:00

When I was a little girl I always wanted my dad to build me a beam! I loved gymnastics and I swore if I had a daughter if my husband wouldn't build it I would! I luckly was blessed with a very handy hubby! He had been saying for a year he wanted to build Molly and Katie their beam. Finally he came home from Home Depot one day and built it with Molly! She helped with the whole thing! Of course we had to try it out immediately after. Molly tried cartwheels and Katie attempted her moves as well! They spent close to an hour on it. It's a little hard for sommersaults though. Look out Olympics 2016 and 2020 the Thibaults are on their way!

THE BEST MOTHER'S DAY GIFT!

2007-05-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

For Mother's Day I had the best gift given! The girls brought me breakfast in bed and three flower points with seeds to plant, very cool! Of course Katie got me a springy snowman that was really hers but mine for the day. LOL. Mark said he would thoroughly weed my gardens, since I am pregnant. If any of you know my yard and garden's it's not exactly small. He stayed out there for close to four hours and did a tremendous job! Yeah for Mark! It was the best Mother's Day ever. I hated seeing all of those weeds overtaking my garden. Woo Hoo!

COUNT DOWN....WHO WILL PEANUT BE! 3 MORE DAYS!

2007-05-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

WHO IS PEANUT??? TAKE OUR POLL!

2007-05-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

The anticipation and joy
Is really fun to share
We only know one thing
That Peanut's not a pair.
So as the week goes by
As excitement grows and grows
We need to have some guesses
Because God only knows.
So add to the comments
If it's a girl or boy
And we will post after 24th

And share with you our joy!

What a Week

2007-05-11T07:23:00.000-07:00

This week turned out to be busy and quite interesting. As most of you know, Katie has been suffering again with asthma. She has also been breaking out in hives. Needless to say, we think she might have a food alergy. Tuesday we had scheduled a skin test for allergies and after our doctor scared my daughter to death she refused the test. I was irritated with the doctor because he didn't need to explain everything to my three year old. So we took some blood to test what we thought might be the allergy. We will see sometime next week what the outcome is with that. Molly will be taking 2 days a week of gymnastics in the summer to see how she does. She is close to moving up to Pre-team she just needs to mature a little...we know she is not quite ready for that committment. The baby seems to be okay. I am a little nervous because I am not feeling significant, consistant movement so it's a little unnerving but my ultrasound is scheduled for May 24th so we will see who "Peanut" is.

I am Just Like Daddy!

2007-05-11T07:14:00.000-07:00

Mark and I were talking and in walked Katie in Daddy's coat and work boots. She was very proud of herself. She said she was just like Daddy and she was off to work!

"Would you Like Fries With That?"

2007-05-11T07:07:00.000-07:00

Katie and Daddy played for hours in the backyard with the McDonalds playhouse and all of the old Fisher Price Little People. Katie was the worker and Daddy was the costumer.

"Oh What a Night"

2007-05-11T06:58:00.000-07:00

Molly and I went to the Mother/Daughter Banquet for her Brownie Troop. In the picture here she is dancing away with her friend. They were dancing to her favorite song, which everyone seems to be lately. We had chicken, mashed potatoes, corn and of course brownies for desert. We danced together, which was interesting considering I have little energy, but it was a lot of fun. It was really neat seeing Molly act like a young lady instead of my baby. She was a miniture me dancing with her friends and screaming whenever a song she liked came on. What a grown up girl. While she was dancing one of her friends bumped her in the chin and knocked out her loose tooth. Molly was hurt, she was excited. She said it wss the best night of her life! Cause she lost her tooth. That night she left her tooth out for the tooth fairy and she proudly woke up at 6:30 am and showed me her .50!

Why Won't It Catch?

2007-05-10T06:03:00.000-07:00

Katie was insistant that the tree should play ball with her. She kept talking to it but...no such luck. She did like the shade though.

Molly's a Star!

2007-05-01T17:00:00.000-07:00

Last night Molly had her first concert at school. She was so proud that she was going to sing and couldn't wait for me to be there. Some of the songs they sang were B-I-N-G-O, Aardvark, Hip Hop Bunny, Happy Hippopodomus, and Chimpanzee. All of the first grade classes sung so well and they were all so proud. Molly remembered all of the words and motions. How fun.

Update on Peanut

2007-05-01T09:34:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went to the OB and had my visit. She checked the heartbeat and it was strong. I am now 15 weeks and 4 days. I cannot believe I am as far along as that. In two and a half weeks from now we will no longer need to call peanut peanut. It will have a name....we can't wait!

Innocence is Lost

2007-04-30T14:03:00.000-07:00

Today Katie once again was at the doctor's. She had another 100 temp. When we arrived at the doctor he took one listen to her lungs and she needed to be back on Albuterol, she was weezing. My heart sank and thanked God for the fever that was unrelated and thought to myself..."back to the drawing board." As discouraging as it was to hear that she was once again having asthmatic symptoms I also had such hope and happiness in my heart that God has made Katie a fighter. She had to not only give a urine sample, which she found to be quite cool that her 'pee pee' was in a jar, but she had to get blood work done. When the doctor told me he wanted blood work done to see why she still had a fever, a sweat started to overcome me. I thought, "oh my gosh, here goes her ignorance of going to the doctor." I never realized how much I couldn't stand my children getting 'poked' until now. I begged the doctor to give me a recommendation of a lab that dealt well with children and he really didn't have one. Once we walked into the lab she knew something was wrong. She immediately clung to me and I sat her on my lap. As I anticipated the worst such as a kicking screaming child Katie sat there stoically and cried softly as they poked her. Unfortunately they missed a vein and had to poke her again. By the second poke she cried a little louder but did not fight. While they were changing vials she quieted and watched, she actually found it a little interesting that that was her blood. After they were done she said firmly she wanted a sticker and a sucker and her request was fulfilled. Of course mother like, I did everything I could think of to sooth her, cuddle her, bribe her, tell her she could have lunch out and a treat at home for being a brave girl but none of it phased her, she was fine. I asked her what she thought of the ordeal and she said, "it was bad very bad. I didn't like my blood mommy, but I was brave." It amazed me that Mark and I were the ones standing there fretting about her first blood work but she was not ignorant I think we were. We have a fighter and a strong little girl that has been through so much medically in her three years. We count our blessings everyday that she is as healthy as she is and I love every moment when God uses our children to show us just how strong He can make them and how we can learn from them.

Proud Gift

2007-04-30T13:52:00.000-07:00

While I was at the doctors today Katie stayed with Nana. When she was over there Nana and Katie went exploring in the garden, Nana told her about the plants and Katie sprinkled some bird food in the feeder. Of course she had to pick one of the lilacs for me. When I picked her up she immediately ran to get it and grabbed it smushed in her fist and proudly handed it to me. I just found it refreshing to see such a love for the little things that we, as adults seem to forget.

This Week....

2007-04-27T14:56:00.000-07:00

This week started out interesting. On Sunday morning Katie woke up with a 101 temp. Then she kept that all day. Then at night Molly began to develop a fever as well and sore throat. Needless to say I took them to the doctors and they both had strep. They were misserable, they were very cranky and were at each other. Luckly it was a short lived illness and by Wednesday they were on the mend. The picture on the left is from Easter. The girls slept in sponge rollers and did very well as they are very uncomfortable. I remember all too well sleeping in those. I guess it is a taste of how it can be uncomfortable to be a girl. I am now 15 weeks preganant and starting to gain some energy back. I have been feeling a little bit of movement and definitely look pregnant now, there is no mistaking it. I have gotten over my Walmart experience, however they did not have 2 of Katie's letters so I have to go back. Maybe I will sucker Sally into going for me. I may even pay her. LOL!

Where Am I The Jerry Springer Show?

2007-04-20T18:20:00.000-07:00

Today I attended MOPS as I do every 1st and 3rd Fridays of the month and we had a great craft to do. We were making block letters for our children's rooms. As I was happily crafting away I had an idea to make not only my child's inital but their whole name. Unfortunitely they were bought at Walmart. And for those of you that know me very well....I do not shop there. Don't get me wrong, I am not a Walmart hater but I do believe my convictions when it comes to their business practices which make my blood run cold at times. However, I am not blogging my dislike of Walmart but to say I ventured out to Walmart after a two year boycott and had an interesting time. Not only did the noise and the tin sounding intercom annoy me but many people rudely pushed buy without a care in the world and like most times I blow it off because people just don't realize what they do sometimes. Then Molly was wandering looking at toys down an aisle and a woman bumped into her and then proceeded to give her a dirty look. "Hmmm," I thought..."that wasn't too nice." As I continued down the aisles I begrugandly had thoughts of I wished I hadn't gone there, I knew there was reason why I didn't like Walmart and man I wish I liked Walmart because they do have good prices. Did you know you can actually get Kraft Mac and Cheese for $.60 and doritos for 3.00 (not the regular size but the family!!!) I gave myself a mental kick and said, "Jen, get over it...it's not because it's Walmart." So I got in line to check out and low and behold there stood the woman who clipped off my daughters heels and gave her a nasty look. I said a quick prayer to help me from not giving her a dirty look and started to unpack my cart when in the distance I heard yelling. I looked up to see two woman yelling at each other in the next check out line next to me. They were in each other's face and two of the woman were in nurses scrubs and obviously had a mentally handicapped person with them. (Apparently, the handicapped person was the bone of contention.) So as I covered my daughters ears from their vulgar language and I had to then cover their eyes because they started to shove each other. I thought to myself, "Where in the world am I, the Jerry Springer Show?"
Finally, the two nurses backed off and the lady causing the trouble shouted, " She stepped in front of me you big fat @#*!$%. At that moment I saw the woman she called the name's face and it broke my heart. Her face dropped and stood there in disbelief as the security took the nasty lady away, which by the way had a child about Molly's age with her. Now understand, I am sensitive to episodes like that anyway but add pregnancy to the picture...then we are talking pure tears. It just makes me sad that my child has to grow up in this type of world. It wasn't Walmart's fault but...our society. People just seem to be on the muscle and get angry at a drop of a hat. Molly said something as we drove home. I asked her what she thought of what had happened and she said it was like they were kids. Hmmmm, out of the mouths of babes. So that was my experience of Walmart after a two year boycott. Will I be back????? It's going to be hard with those dog on prices....and if they have craft stuff for less???? Nah. I'll keep trying. Now it's become a challenge to see how long I can boycott. I just had a momentary lapse. So if you venture out to Walmart that's fine save money, good for you, just make sure you have earplugs for your child's ears and strong shoes for thier feet. Oh and don't forget to pray that you won't stoop to some people's level.

Peanut

2007-04-18T13:40:00.000-07:00

This our baby #3's first photograph. It is very hard to tell because it looks like a peanut but that is our baby. He/she was 9 weeks 4 days in this picture. Peanut is now 13 weeks 5 days, is 4 inches long, is the size a clenched fist, has fingernails and starting to get eyebrows. He/she is also learning to smile and suck it's thumb. Amazing, and only a little less then 14 weeks. As most of you know it has been a trying couple years for us. We have been pregnant 4 times in the last year and have miscarried 3 and had 1 ectopic pregnancy. We thought we were done. Guess what? Surprise!!! I am due October 20th and at this point it is unanimous, if it is a girl it will be Amanda and if it is a boy it will be Jack. Middle names are up in the air. Jen's doctors want her to take it easy this pregnancy and Mark has been a great, understanding husband/father of three to be. Jen's ultrasounds and exams over the last couple weeks have been not only encouraging but joyous. We have to decided to find out who peanut will be a he or a she. So we will keep you updated. News to come in May.

Katie

2007-04-18T13:18:00.000-07:00

Katie just turned 3 January 1st. She is no longer a baby. She speaks very well and even though she doesn't recgonize all of her letters she knows the sounds pretty well. As you can tell in her picture she loves Mickey Mouse. We have watched thousands upon thousands of "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" episodes until we can no longer sing the theme song anymore. She had suffered with asthma for the first two years of her life and kidney reflux but amazingly she has been asthma free for a year now and her kidney reflux has improved to almost normal. She is very particular and has to have order in her life. She is my neat kid and doesn't like messy things especially herself. Katie is a joy and prays for organges, apples, teddy and thanks God for her "neck." (I guess that is an important body part). Katie is in gymnastics and loves it. She has no fear so either gymnastics is going to save her life so when she is a daredevil she is safe or give her more confidence to do more daring things. We shall see.

Welcome to our blog!!!

2007-04-18T13:02:00.000-07:00

Molly started first grade this year and is growing by leaps and bounds. It is hard to believe that she has almost finished the school year. She is now reading chapter books and her favorite subject is science. Molly loves to ask questions and cannot stand it if it doesn't make sense. If she cannot figure out why she will have a theory of her own. Hmm, sound like anyone???? She takes ballet with my long time friend Jennifer (she is her teacher) and enjoys it. She will have her first dance recital in June. She loves her costume, she says it is so "cool" and very sparkly. She is in gymnastics and is loving it but frustrated she doesn't get it right away. She had her first meet in March she did well and got a trophy which proudly sits on her dresser. Molly is very excited that she is going to be a big sister for the second time. I quote, "I prayed and I prayed that we would have a baby and finally God said yes!" Molly's favorite things are; trees, "they're her friends," church, playing princess and dressing up with makeup, gymnastics, ballet and science experiments. She prays often that God will give her a "secret" lab.