Finding Haven...

10 months later...

2012-11-08T21:12:00.002-06:00

Hello,

It has been about 10 months since I have written on my blog. Life has been so busy with our little girl that I just lost track of where I was for a little bit. Some days I am reminded as to why I started this blog... to be a voice for those that are not ready to tell their story. That is still my focus but I have moved beyond abuse and I'm living a very happy life. Mia just turned 10 months old. I can't believe it. The months are flying by and I'm already planning her birthday. I plan to be blogging more often because its so nice to have these posts to look back on.

Jess

Mia Ann Wilborn

2012-03-13T14:36:00.001-05:00

Mia was due on December 28, 2011 and was estimated to weigh within 6 - 7 lbs. I thought maybe I would have her by Christmas but Christmas came and went. I felt like I was missing out on Christmas without having her here. I was so caught up in wanting her here that it was depressing when it passed and so did New Years. I couldn't take it anymore. I was in so much pain at night that I could not get comfortable, my back was hurting really bad and I was up more than every hour just to pee. Or sometimes I just thought I had to. Chris and I discussed with my doctor that we would wait as long as he would let us before inducing me. Days passed and we realized she wasn't going to come on her own before our set date of January 4, 2012.

Bright and early on January 4, 2012 we woke up for the last time as a family of two (and our dog). I constantly savored our last few days and naps together even though I was soooo excited for us to be a family of three. We made it to the hospital around 7:30 am and I was still feeling really good. I was exactly 41 weeks. Once we arrived we got settled into our room and I was told to put on my hospital gown. It was such a crazy feeling to know I was getting ready to have a baby and just changing into the gown was making me nervous. I hate hospitals anyways even if we were there for a joyous event. Our nurse came in and introduced herself and told me how everything was going to go. 1) Pitocin will be administered 2)Water broken 3)Epidural 4)Welcome Mia. I figured that we might have her that day but was prepared for it to take a while.

At 8:20 a.m. they started the pitocin and shortly after I started feeling like I was having menstraul cramps. Bad ones. But nothing that would make you cry or scream. A few minutes later someone came rolling into our room and a scooter looking thing. When I saw his face I couldn't believe I was looking at my doctor. He had broken his leg (riding on a scooter during Christmas) and was literally riding on a medical scooter with his leg in a cast. How was he going to deliver my baby on a scooter? This definitely brightened my morning. He was in good spirits none the less and at 8:45 a.m. he broke my water. It wasn't anything scary like I thought it would be. I felt no pain when he did it and it just felt like I was peeing myself, haha. He checked to see if I was dilated and to my surprise I was 2-3 cm. and had already started going into labor on my own. I had been at 1 cm since my 37th week.

Over the next hour and a half the cramping was getting worse. Lasting longer and more intense to where I just wanted a quiet room during them. It was easier to manage when I was relaxed. The pain was there but it wasn't to the point that I needed an epidural yet. Then the nurse came in and asked me if I wanted to get the epidural now since the anesthesiologist was on our floor and it would be best if I caught him now rather than later in case he wasn't readily available. So I said ok lets do it. This was one of the scariest parts for me. I had heard so many horror stories about it going wrong. The anesthesiologist was amazing, calmed my nerves and at 10: 30 a.m. performed it flawlessly. I could not have been happier. Next thing I know I was in complete bliss. Any cramping I had was gone and I could only feel my stomach tightening.

I used the next few hours as a chance to go on facebook, call my amazing friend Jacque, my grandmother and my in-laws. I was so happy with how things were going I just hoped that I would progress smoothly through the end. Every hour the nurse would come in and check me and soon I was at 6 cm. Once noon rolled around I thought that we might be having our daughter alot sooner than expected. Shortly thereafter I began to feel some unusual things. I guess just pressure and I thought I could feel the baby moving down. I called the nurse and asked her to check. I was so worried the baby would practically be coming out and I would have no idea because I was numb. I was 7 cm. Then by 1:30 I was at 9 cm. I couldn't believe it!

Next thing we know she tells Chris to hold one leg and we're going to do a couple of pushes. My legs felt asleep which I was happy I could actually feel them. I think we did about 3 pushes and then she started having the other nurses come in. Shortly after there were about 7 people in the room setting up. We did a few more pushes and I was getting so scared. All of these things were rushing through my mind. Is she going to be healthy, are all her fingers and toes going to be there, will I be able to feel it? I started crying and just then my doctor rolls in. He asked me what was wrong and said everything was going to be just fine.

After the first few pushes I think I had tunnel vision. Chris was on my right side rubbing my forehead with a wet washcloth. My nurse would tell me when there was a contraction and count. I remember one point feeling like I was losing my breath and Chris just kept putting the washcloth on me. It helped so much. I knew that if the doctor said to stop pushing that her head would be out and I was excited to get to that point. Then the doctor said that we need to turn her 90 degrees. Whatever they needed to do to get her out safely. So after a few minutes she was turned. I started worrying about the feeling of pushing out a baby. Was my epidural going instantly wear off and I'd be in pain? I had no idea. I told myself to focus on the counting and block out the thoughts. I continued to listen to my nurse coaching me and counting. I could hear some of the other nurses start to encourage me. Telling me I was doing a great job.

My doctor was beginning to take over with the coaching and so calmly was telling me to push and then he said, "Ok, big push...." everyone in the room started saying come on Jessica, push... (counting)." Next thing I knew my doctor says, "Whoa look at that hand! Ok ssstttoooppp....Very good! I knew she was almost here but I was to scared to look down. I closed my eyes and gave one more push then I heard crying. She was quickly layed on top of me while being wiped down. Her hand rubbed my left cheek and I will never forget how soft it felt. As I held her I looked at her face and thought oh my gosh! Who does she look like? I can't tell. All her fingers and toes are there and she is perfect! I looked at Chris and we were both in shock I think. I just remember saying oh my gosh! She was crying and crying! She had a headache from the forceps but was nonetheless perfect! She was born at 2:42 p.m. weighed 8 lbs. 2 oz 21 inches long. So much for the 6 lb. baby.

Mia Ann Wilborn

We are ready!!!

2012-01-02T15:39:00.000-06:00

I am officially overdue!!! Mia's due date was December 28, 2011 and that has already come and gone. We scheduled our induction for January 4, 2012 and so far it seems that that is when she will be here (or the next day). My doctor thinks that she will most likely come before we induce but so far I haven't noticed any signs of that happening. I am so excited and ready to meet her!

I also have her final nursery pics for you guys to see. We are still adding things to the walls but other than that, it's pretty much done.

December 2011

2011-12-05T19:56:00.001-06:00

Well it's that time of year.... fa la la la la la la la la....

We just put our tree up over the weekend and I love it. We originally wanted to cut our tree down at a local tree farm but it was an hour away and went for convenience. I just love the smell of a real tree but I know we won't always have a real one. Something tells me an artificial one will be easier with a little one. The wreath that's above the fireplace only cost me $16 as I bought the wreath & embellishments half price at Hobby Lobby. I love that store!

I will be 37 weeks on Wednesday & I can't believe it. Time has flown by. At my 36 week appointment I was 1 cm. dilated and hopefully this week I will have progressed even more. I have been have a lot of braxton hicks and some new pains. The pain better be there because the baby is slowly making her way out, one can only hope. Last week I did some shopping for Cyber Monday at Target and scored some really good deals.

Moby Wrap (Black) $45

Pack & Play: $88 originally $140

Snugride Carseat Base

Boppy Pillow $27

Boppy Cover $11

Since all of these items were on my registry I received an additional 10% off. You can't beat that!

I am waiting on one more item for the nursery and once it arrives I will post the final room pictures. It's all coming together. Now, I am off to pack my hospital bag. I wonder when Mia will be here...

-Jess

34 Weeks Update

2011-11-18T01:59:00.001-06:00

32 Weeks & 2 days (about 2 weeks ago)

How is everyone? It's been a few weeks and I decided maybe ya'll want a baby update?! Mia is growing beautifully and could be here anytime her due date is 12/28. I know it's every expecting woman's #1 question as to when will they have the baby. I know its mine! For now I am just focusing on school. My finals end on 12/13 so hopefully she can hold out until then.

A few things that I'm still needing to get together is my hospital bag, postpartum essentials, and some other baby things. We have the big things like the crib, stroller/ car seat, clothes & dresser but I still need an extra car seat base for Chris' truck and DIAPERS!!! I so far only have 2 boxes of diapers. They are a size 1- pampers. Do you think I need to go ahead and make sure I have at least one newborn pack? It's so hard trying to figure out what size she will fit into. I am not even sure what her coming home outfit will be. Most likely it will be a onesie with booties & all since it will be cold out. Target has so reeealllyy cute winter outfits but I'm trying not to buy anything new for a while. I don't see the need. Second hand works great and its less expensive.

So I am in my 34th week and just until this past week I was feeling great and not even really pregnant. But all of a sudden its back pains, and walking around campus is getting harder. It's harder to breathe. My doctor thinks she will be in the 6- 7 lbs. range. Right now he estimates her to be in the 4 lbs. area. Chris & I aren't big people so this sounds pretty accurate. I am so anxious to see what she looks like and to see ourselves in her. I can't wait & hopefully my recovery will be quick!

Here are a few things I have my eye on...

This is my kind of Diaper bag! I lurve it!!!

Trying to decide if I want to get a tree decal for the baby's room .

-Jess

Sneak Peek: Mia's Room

2011-10-09T17:57:00.000-05:00

Mia's room isn't quite done but I wanted to give you an idea of how its coming along. The walls are painted and the furniture is in with all of her clothes put away. I like to wash and fold/hang her clothes as it comes that way I'm not staying up for hours doing all of her laundry. I still have things to buy such as curtains and something for the wall that her crib is on. I don't want to do the typical name, I want to do something that's a little different. Let me know if you have any neat ideas. Once her room is complete I will show you the final outcome.

My mother in-law bought this for her room and it's perfect.

This lamp use to have a honey wood stain and brass accent.

Mia's first stuffed animal. It's from Jelly Cat, and a little expensive but I love the quality.

This brightens my day...

2011-09-21T08:25:00.001-05:00

I used this as my inspiration....

This is what it looked like before...

And here is what it looks like after...

I love how this turned out!

My husband spent a lot of hours priming and sanding this dresser

but I think it was worth it in the end! Mia's room is coming along :)

Flowers Galore

2011-09-19T20:51:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday!!!

Here is a quick DIY project I completed today for Mia's hair clips. Most of these will go on little headbands but for now this is where they will be kept. Hope you like it :)

Took a wood frame and spray painted it white.

Glued ribbon to the back.

Here is what you end up with!

-Jess

It's Coming Along...

2011-09-16T20:32:00.000-05:00

Hey EVERYONE!!!!!! I have been doing some baby shopping let me tell you. All I need now furniture wise is the crib, stroller/car seat & a glider. I have all of them picked out but I'm buying them in the next few months. However, here is a dresser I found for $75 at an antique store. It was in such great shape & decently priced. I have high hopes for it. Chris started sanding and painting it today. He noticed yellowish streaks that started to seep through so he's going to sand it some more before painting it again. I really hope it turns out well & I'll keep you posted.

Notice the detail at the bottom. Mia's crib will mimic this :)

Tonight we also painted Mia's room. I decided to go with a neutral color mostly because I'm not much of a pink person and it will save us the hassle of having to repaint a crazy colored bedroom once we move out. Unfortunately we are renting. I do have a few pictures I am using for inspiration...

As soon as we are done I will update with more pictures. So many projects in the works. I LOVE it!

Mia Mia Mia

2011-09-06T15:53:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend Chris and I went out of town to visit family and his Mom showered me with so many baby things. From clothes to diapers, to bibs... a little bit of everything. So up until this point I've just been buying clothes for her but after this weekend I decided that I was going to get her bedding this week. I have been looking for the bedding this whole time but I just never saw the right one. But last night I went to JCPenney's website and here is what I decided on....

Kate Spade Diaper Bag: $35

Bassinet: $50

Before purchasing the diaper bag I ensured it wasn't a counterfeit :) This bassinet has been on my mind lately and I finally decided I should get it before its gone. Brand new, it would have cost $150. Even though it has a blue ribbon I don't think I'm going to change it.

I was going to post some outfits that I got Mia but I think I'l save that for another post. Maybe do a post on her closet once its done. Next on the to do list is to buy a crib, which is sitting in my Walmart registry so I don't forget what kind it is and then car seat/stroller. So much to buy for a baby it's crazy! But I love getting her stuff ready. I can't believe I'll be 24 weeks tomorrow :) Lately when she moves you can see it from the outside of my clothes. Sometimes if she moves and I'm in class, I almost want to laugh out loud because I feel like its noticeable to others. I love it. Tomorrow is another ultrasound so I'll update with pics soon.

-Jess

Where am I?

2011-08-31T22:02:00.000-05:00

SO it has been a few weeks since I have blogged. My classes started last week and ever since then I have had no time! My free time consists of reading, homework eating sleeping driving to school and walking in the hot a...... well u see where I am going with this. I'm really trying to focus this semester on what I need to do for myself before the baby comes. Only a few more months!!!! Less than 4 months away. I am sure by the time she is here I will be think, it was just yesterday I found out I was pregnant. So I know she will be here before I know it and that's why I'm putting forth so much effort to these classes this semester. I hope to begin blogging more regularly because I really enjoy it. Blogging is a way to express my own style, hobbies and ramblings all in one place.

That reminds me have you or are you members of Pinterest? I think that's how you spell it. I just discovered that site and I can't wait to try out some of the inspirations I'm finding. My husband recently bought a sewing machine for us and I have yet to learn how to even turn it on. Lots of stuff I need to catch up on.

I hope you are all doing well & I will be back soon!

~Jess

We're having a...

2011-08-10T20:11:00.000-05:00

Happy Wednesday!!! Wednesday is always such a good day as it marks a new week of pregnancy for me. Today I had my (20 week) ultrasound and a quick visit with the doctor.

This morning I was contemplating whether to eat before my appointment or to wait until after. I wasn't sure how eating would affect the baby. All I wanted was for the baby to cooperate. So I ate a bowl of honey nut cheerios with a banana and had half a cup of coffee. As Chris and I were headed into the doctor's office I mentioned to him, "What happens if the baby is asleep?" I hadn't felt movement yet but also knew I had been getting ready so I might not have really noticed.

As we headed to the ultrasound room I tried to relax and just stay calm. For our first ultrasound I felt so excited that I could barely remember what was said so this time I really wanted to take it all in. As soon as the tech. began I noticed the baby wasn't really moving, don't worry.... the baby decided to take a little nap. I laughed... just as I had thought. Every now and then the right arm would go up. Then we saw the mouth open and close. Finally we tried to move the baby by having me roll on my right side. Still sleeping. Lets try the left.... and it worked. Baby started moving and as I watched the baby move on the screen I could also feel it... a very neat thing! Hands, feet, heart and everything else was perfect. Baby weighs 11 ounces with a heart rate of 145. The tech. wasn't able to get a good measurement of the head so we will get another look at next months appointment. Once she began to move towards the legs I knew we were about to find out... still hadn't seen anything at this point. The tech. says "This is the femur and this right here shows that you're having a girl." I was surprised and excited but asked her if she was sure and if she could tell 100%... and she was right. In no way was there a penis.

Chris and I are so excited! I can't believe we are having a little me. I know I am going to be protective and everything to her that my mother never was to me. Our daughter is going to be loved so much and will have a healthy, happy and wonderful childhood. I am so excited to paint her little toes and to do her hair. I can't wait to meet our little Mia (spanish: mine) Ann!

-Jess

19 Weeks Update

2011-08-03T14:21:00.000-05:00

I do not have a pic. for today but might have one tomorrow. Over these past few days I've been really tired so I'm just taking it easy today. On Sunday night July 31, I felt the baby move. It was about 1:30 am and I noticed that my stomach felt different in one spot. Thinking oh its probably my uterus growing more. I pressed on it and I felt a push back. I was ecstatic!!! I did it again and felt the same thing. I was soooo happy!!! I felt so much more at ease. I was thinking thats what I've been waiting to feel for all of these weeks and it calms me to know the baby is there and doing well! Since then I am constantly feeling the baby move. Funny how all of a sudden it's so noticeable.

Also, as the weeks pass I do feel more anxious as to what's happening to my body. It's such a change to be the same weight for so long and then to now be gaining weight. I have been walking a lot which I know is good but lately my lower stomach has been hurting. Like it aches. So when that happens I just take it easy. We find out the sex in one week from today and I can't wait. We can't wait!!!!! Also, school starts in a few weeks so pretty soon my weeks are really going to be flying by.

Here are a few pics from throughout the week...

-Jess

18 Weeks

2011-07-28T19:34:00.000-05:00

Yesterday marked the start of my 18th week!!! I feel like the weeks are going by so fast and there are only 2 more weeks until we find out the sex. Before we know it the baby will be here.... eeeee! I'm excited and nervous at the same time.

18 Weeks

Passed out after his walk :)

-Jess

Friday Inspiration

2011-07-22T11:00:00.000-05:00

-Jess

17 Weeks

2011-07-21T20:00:00.001-05:00

Lately, this is who I've had to wake up next to...

He is 9 months now :)

17 weeks

I finally had my doctor's appt. yesterday and everything is going very well. I just had my weight and blood pressure checked as well as the baby's heartbeat. So far I've gained 7 lbs. and let me tell you, every time I look at the scale it's a different number.
I try not to stress over it. Oh I almost forgot to mention that in 3 weeks we find out if it's a boy or a girl. (I think it's a boy) We have no preference, all we want is a healthy baby.

Go Green

2011-07-21T16:15:00.000-05:00

As part of the house pics I've been showing ya'll, I decided to show our backyard. I love how green it is and may or may not plant flowers. Right now the only flowers are the one's that are on the trees. I wish I knew what kind of trees they were but I don't. If you happen to know, please tell me!

Haven't decided if I want to put plants here.
We always use our garage.

I can't wait for fall. We plan on putting out wicker sofa & chairs
along with a fire pit of some sort. Add some smores & we're set.

This tree blooms with lavender little flowers.

The tree to the far left blooms with magenta flowers.

Wonderful Weekend

2011-07-18T22:09:00.000-05:00

This weekend Chris & I went to this new restaurant and they have so many owl paintings inside. This little guy was waiting for us at our table.

Seeing how cute all the paintings were made me think that if we have a girl, I might try to incorporate that into the nursery. Here are some other pics taken throughout the weekend. Stayed tuned for an OOTD on Wednesday :)

Please don't judge me fore the broken cookie.

I feel like the baby is really growing this week :)

Oh Baby!!!

2011-07-09T12:00:00.002-05:00

Happy Weekend!!! Hopefully everyone is enjoying their Saturday, I am working but still enjoying it. We finally were able to have an ultrasound at 13 weeks. It was very unexpected & the doctor was so accommodating. I'm very happy with him. The baby was just kicking and moving around all over the place. His/her heart rate was at 153. Everything has been running smoothly, so far. I hope that doesn't change. I'm pretty much don't with morning sickness & it only lasted about 3 weeks. The last picture is current and at 15 weeks. I have a little bump & can't wait for it to actually be noticeable. I'd love to know which of my readers are either currently expecting or mommy's already. Enjoy your weekend & talk to you soon!

House Update

2011-07-08T15:01:00.001-05:00

Hey guys!!!!!! It has been so long since my last blog post and I am sorry. Due to the move and internet connection it has taken me this long to write a new post. So, I have a lot to update you on but one post would be too long so this will be the first of many more to come.

Before we moved into our house, the owners sent us pictures so you will see a before and after of some of the rooms. I still plan on showing you more pics of the house so stay tuned & I hope you enjoy!

Office- Before

Office- After

Master Bedroom- Before

Master Bedroom- After

Most of you saw the post about the desk and how Chris & I refinished it. If not you can see it here. I absolutely love how it turned out! This is the first pic of our bedroom that I've shown. We ended up only painting one wall the blue color and the other 3 walls are a cream color. I am tired of painting and until the baby comes I'm not painting anything else. By the way, the baby and I are doing well. I can't believe I'm already 15 weeks pregnant. More news on the baby soon & thanks for stopping by.

-Jess

"A baby will make love stronger, days shorter, nights longer, bankroll smaller, home happier, clothes shabbier, the past forgotten, and the future worth living for."

2011-05-29T19:37:00.000-05:00

Exciting News!!!

We're going to have little Wilborn!!!
(Our first baby)

I found out I was pregnant around week 4 and I am now 9 wks. & 4 days pregnant. My husband & I couldn't be happier. Around 4 1/2 to 5 weeks the morning sickness began. Thank goodness I wasn't throwing up but I was nauseas all day. By week 7 it began to go away. Now, I am rarely nauseas. It's also hard to enjoy a meal. Most meals I eat gross me out but it's starting to get a little bit better as the weeks go on. Since everything is going well I haven't had an ultrasound yet but I am really looking forward to it.

We are finally moving in the next few days & I can't wait to start decorating the new house.
It will make the time go by faster which is something I need because since I found out I was pregnant, I feel like the weeks have been dragging.

I hope for those of you that are Mom's, you are able to give me insight and advice along the way.
Stay tuned for more posts and some before & after's of the new house :)

Sigma Contest Winner

2011-05-16T20:38:00.000-05:00

Congratulations

Sandra G. (*Sam*) is the winner of the Sigma E-25 Contest.

I'm so happy that so many people participated. I hope you had fun & hopefully I will have another contest very soon. Thank you guys!!!

Winner of Sigma Contest has been chosen...

2011-05-16T19:59:00.000-05:00

Winner!!!

The winner for the Sigma Contest has been notified via email. Check your email followers! Once I hear back from the winner I will post his/her name on the blog. If I don't hear back from the winner by Friday, I will select a new one. Thanks for entering in my first contest, I loved being able to do it for all of you!

-Jess

Reminder: Sigma Contest

2011-05-04T13:45:00.000-05:00

Followers,

Last day to enter the Sigma Contest is May 15th.... hurry up and enter!
Hopefully you're the winner :)

To receive the extra entry, one of the options was to retweet about this giveaway...

Copy & paste:
Hurry up & enter for a chance to win the Sigma E-25 http://findinghaven.blogspot.com from @Jessann729

-Jess

Sigma Contest

2011-05-01T12:05:00.005-05:00

Contest is Closed

Happy Sunday!!!

I received this E-25 (travel) blending brush in the mail this week from Sigma. They asked me if I wanted to do a giveaway & I immediately jumped at the opportunity. Sigma will be mailing the winner the exact same brush that I received. Below is a picture of the full size. The one you will receive is a little bit shorter and silver. The makeup brushes that I use all came from the Sonia Kashuk collection. Once I tried this blending brush I could instantly feel how much nicer the bristles were, soft! Not stiff and rough like the brush I have now. If this is something you want to try please see the rules below. Good Luck!

E-25 Blending Brush

(Click to view product on website)

Description: Oval-shaped brush with gently chiseled sides. Blends and softens the look of powder or cream shadows. Ideal to apply eye shadow primer, base eye shadow colors, and blend harsh lines.

To win the E-25 (travel) blending brush....

Mandatory

1. Follow this blog via Google Friend Connect (in sidebar on the right)

2. "Like" JessAnn729 Facebook Fan Page (click to go to page)

3. Once 1 & 2 are completed, leave me a comment stating so along with your email address so that I may contact you if you are the winner.

If you have not completed all 3, your entry will not count!

Optional (will earn you one extra entry each day)

1. Follow me on Twitter @Jessann729

2. Re-tweet about this giveaway (once a day only)

Copy & paste:

Hurry up & enter for a chance to win the Sigma E-25 http://findinghaven.blogspot.com from @Jessann729

3. Leave a comment (in blogger) to this post stating you have followed me through twitter, that you re-tweeted this giveaway & include your email address so that I may contact you if you are the winner.

May 15, 2011 is the last day to enter for a chance to win.

Winner will be chosen at random & contacted the week of May 16, 2011.

If you need clarification on the rules please email me at JessAnn729@gmail.com

Good Luck!