TheSimmeringStory

New Normal

2013-12-13T12:17:00.003-08:00

Well, I didn't wait as long this time. I knew I had it in me. I also have a new job, which honestly gives me a little more free time in my day. Any of you working moms out there know what I mean by this. Being at home with the kids was 24/7, non stop. At a job there are times during the day that you have a few minutes to sit back and just breathe (or blog).

So, as I just mentioned I was offered and accepted the position at NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC). I'm currently working 5 days a week on campus. It's a little different schedule than I anticipated and will change at some point but I chose to do this so that I could have shorter days vs. longer days to allow for a day or 2 at home. The campus goes to a 4 day week in May so I anticipate working 5 days a week until then. My boss is about as laid back and flexible as can be. I've arrived between 7:30 and 8:30 in the morning and he is fine with that. As long as the work is done I'm pretty free to come and go. Such a change from my previous job. I actually sent Luke a text today that said "FYI I LOVE MY JOB". It just hit me today that I made the right choice and I have noticed that I'm a happier person and a happier mommy which is the most important thing to me. Plus, the paycheck really doesn't hurt either! We plan to use this extra money to pay off our student loans. It's so exciting to know that in a year or so we will be debt free (not including our mortgage)! Debt Free! We didn't imagine we'd be saying that so early in our post grad school lives and I don't want to jinx us, but that is the plan.

I started the week of Thanksgiving so I only had a 3 day week. Perfect timing to get us all used to a new routine. My second and third weeks of work were also 3 day weeks thanks to a nice ice and snow storm that closed campus for 4 days! So all in all this has been a pretty easy transition into our new normal. I got my first paycheck today and it seemed just a little wrong to get paid considering I still haven't worked a full week!

William and Clara are adjusting wonderfully. William is excited to get up and go to school and play with his friends each morning. If you ask him what his friends names are he will tell you Elsie, Chase and Thomas. I have no clue if these people exist or if he is just telling me something to get me to stop asking :) Clara is still an incredibly easy going little lady. She gives the teacher a big smile every morning when I drop her off and has a smile ready for me when I pick her up. She still doesn't love the bottle and has days that she eats great and days that she is ready to eat non stop when we get home. I know as she gets older and we can begin supplementing with food and she gets more and more comfortable with the bottle that this will work itself out. I realize that food is till probably about 2 months off but it's definitely on my radar. Anyway, she is really making this so easy on me, and for that I am SO thankful!

Enjoy a few pictures from Clara's 3 month photo shoot :)

It's Been Awhile.....

2013-11-04T12:32:00.000-08:00

So, I lied. I said I was back and then it was a year + before I returned. Please insert an appropriate excuse here and don't judge. I hope this return is more permanent but I really shouldn't make promises right now. When I last posted we were preparing to celebrate William's 1st birthday, my oh my how things have changed in the past year! William is now 2 and has a 2 month old little sister. Let's do a quick recap of the past year and then we can move on to the real reason for my return......

1st birthday fun...

I'll summarize each month with a picture to catch us up...

October 2012 - watching Cowboy football in Ft. Smith with Becky and Jared

November 2012 - Thanksgiving in KS

December 2012 - William got to share his secret with family

January 2013 - Visiting family in KS

March 2013 - trip to Tanganika Park in Wichita with Emory and Bristyl

April 2013 - Aunt Mary and Uncle Andy get married!

May 2013 - Trip to KS for baby Elsie's birth

June 2013 - hanging out with Lauren and Bristyl at Gma and Gpa's

July 2013 - trip to Branson with the Raleigh Family

July 2013 - Family Staycation at the Simmering Ranch

August 2013 - Clara Jean Simmering makes her grand entrance into the world

September 2013 - Lots of cuddling with sister

September 2013 - William turns 2, we celebrated in Hesston with a hay rack ride and family time

October 2013 - Painted pumpkins with Jacob and Rachel and we've continued to watch sister grow and grow!

So there you have it, and quick run through of the the last year. I'll maybe get around to details about a few of the more major milestones we had during the year but I'm not sure when that will happen, so this will have to do for the time being.

Now, on to the sad truth. I didn't honestly return to start blogging again. I came to read a post I had written in December of 2011. Here's the post I wrote about returning to work when William was 10 weeks old. I've been thinking about returning to work for a LONG time now and Luke and I have come to an agreement that it may be the best decision for our family. I went back to work last spring for 2 months to help out at a CPA firm during busy season. I worked 30 hours a week and sent William to a great daycare near our house. He loved it and cried when April 15 rolled around and he didn't get to go anymore. I loved it, I got to interact with other adults on a regular basis, had a reason to shower and get dressed up each day and it gave me that accomplished feeling that I personally need from an external source.

Now that Clara is here I struggle with this decision. There are days I can't imagine being away from her and then there are those days when I know that a few hours apart would do our relationship some good. Long story short I have an interview for a job that would be about as perfect as it can get. It's at the community college here in Bentonville and would be 3 or 4 days in the office, working for an incredibly flexible boss. The best part is that it is a 2 year position, so if I go and decide it isn't for us I can resign or ride it out for 2 years, or if I love it I can be on the look out for something more permanent during the 2 year period. I know that everyone I talk to says that guilt is just a feeling moms have to deal with and so I'm trying not to let it put a damper on my excitement. I know that many of my mommy role models were/are working moms and that really helps me with this decision. I know that each family has different situations and different needs and I think that for us as a unit it is best if I take this time for myself. I've not discussed this with may people, it's so hard to not feel judged, my parent, sisters and Luke have all been super supportive and I hope that if all goes well and I do decide to go back that I can have the support and understanding of all of my important people. Rereading my own post from 2 years ago what exactly what I needed today, it reminded me how I felt after returning to work post William and I just hope that I feel the same way this time around!

AH, that's enough on that subject for now. I really do hope to be better about writing this all down. I realized today just how therapeutic it can be to write it down and also to go back and read my thoughts on a subject!

Until next time!

I'M BACK

2012-09-20T10:36:00.001-07:00

HI! I'm back! I know, it has been 9 months and for that I'm so sorry. However, I have been a bit busy. We have made some major changes over the past 9 months and they have all worked out great and we've ended up in a great position.

Since I last wrote I've....

gone back to work, loved it. Getting to see my friends 5 days a week was AWESOME. I worked with the best group of people in the world.
got a new niece! Bristyl Kate Roulhac is PERFECT and was born Friday April 13th. 1 day before our niece Emory celebrated her 1st birthday! We are so lucky to have the 2 most beautiful little ladies in the world to call our own (or to atleast share with their parents)!
hated my new boss, learned to hate work and eventually was able to resign!!
moved to Bentonville, AR. Luke got a job with WalMart and he LOVES it!
bought a home, sold a home
went on Raleigh family vacation, a girls beach trip and have taken several trips to Hesston now that we are closer!
celebrated Luke's graduation. He is officially DR SIMMERING!!
done so many other things I can't even remember, being a stay at home mom has kept me hopping.

So as you can see I haven't had much time to keep everyone up to date. But, I'm back! William is celebrating his birthday tomorrow and I am going to do a better job of keeping you all in the loop! Now, to catch you up here are a few pictures to bridge the gap from my last post in DECEMBER!

Love, Life, Work and William

2011-12-06T16:09:00.001-08:00

Ok, it's time I sit down and right some real words, coherent sentences about mommy hood.

I feel like the past week has really given me some perspective on life. Last Wednesday I returned to work full time. This was one of the hardest, yet most rewarding things I have done in my 26 years of life.

Let's first talk about why it was hard :

I think that sums it up.

I had to leave my little man with an almost stranger for an entire day! His happiness is the most important thing to me and I worried about how this new person would handle him. Would she know to give him gripe water if he was gassy, would she even know if he was gassy. Would she know that he likes to rock for awhile before going down for a nap. How would she know if he was hungry, mad, dirty?! On and on and on.... I worried constantly about what could go wrong. You get the picture. Trusting someone else to care for my baby was hard. I had been his care provider for 10 weeks and I wasn't sure I was going to be able to share that role, let alone be away from my boy for 8 hours at a time!

And now, let's discuss why returning to work was a good thing:

Once again it's this little guy! He really does make everything better. I know that sounds crazy, how could leaving him with a sitter make my day better? William makes working so much more meaningful than it ever was before. My time seems more valuable now, my first weekend home with him was probably the best I've ever had. Each second I get to spend with him I cherish even more than I did when I was his sole care provider. I didn't realize it was possible to love my time with him more than I already did. I spent all weekend and every evening for the past week soaking up my little man. I spend 8 hours a day showing off pictures and bragging about how amazing my baby is and I really wouldn't trade our situation for anything in the world. I have lots of friends and family that choose to stay home with their little ones and I have great respect for them. I did it for 10 weeks and wouldn't give that time back for anything. However, for me returning to work gave me such a sense of pride and accomplishment. I grew up in a home with 2 working parents, and I think that I am a strong independent woman today because of the example that my mom provided for me. I want that for William. I want him to see that a woman is more than just a care taker. I want him to know that before his daddy went to work full-time it was mommy that supported the family. I want William to grow up with a strong female presence in his life, I want him to respect me and his future spouse for our hard work and determination. I want William to know that the things he has in life didn't come without a price and that I would do anything to give him the best!

I also want him to know that his daddy works just as hard as mommy. He puts in more time and energy working multiple jobs, while being a full time student to provide for our family.

None of this would be possible if it wasn't for miss Allison. Luke and I have been blessed with the most amazing woman. She has opened her home to our little man. He is the only baby she keeps and he gets to spend all day being loved on by her and her 2 boys. Allison keeps me updated with texts throughout the day and I know that without her updates I would go a little crazy. I thought that trusting another person to care for William would be impossible but I've found a person that I trust, she is raising adorable little boys herself and getting to see William enjoy her and her boys each morning when we drop him off melts my heart!!

Yesterday when I dropped him off and handed him to Allison he gave her a big ole grin and I knew once again that I was doing the right thing!

Plus - she made us cookies and sent them home with William on Monday. I'm pretty sure that wasn't in our agreement but there are NO complaints from me!

Today is Wednesday, William's short day with miss Allison and since Luke is in the middle of his comprehensive exams I get to bring my little man to work with me for a few hours this afternoon and you have NO idea how excited I am to show him off!!

So, long story short. For me returning to work has been a blessing. I know it doesn't work that way for everyone and I'm sure someday when we can afford it I may even cut back my work hours, but I do feel at this moment very happy with my decision and that is more than I was asking for just a few short weeks ago!

Have a wonderful last few days of the week!

Month 2 in Pictures

2011-11-29T06:13:00.001-08:00

Because I'm going back to work tomorrow and I don't feel like doing much else but cuddling with my sweet little man I'll update you on month 2 with pictures. And, don't pretend to be hurt or offended! I know that's all you care about anyway!

cutest pumpkin ever

6 weeks old with grammy

look at those cheeks

showing off my skills - you can"t tell but he has a firm hold on the ring on the toy!

checking out uncle Phil

cheering for the Pokes with Mims

trying to keep up

we played HARD!

Williams favorite place to nap!

game time

nap time

we get lots and lots of tummy time

helping dad clean

playing with aunt Mary

favorite time of the day for the Simmering family! William takes over our bed every morning while daddy gets ready for work

trying out my table and chair from Papa

more tummy time

can't even believe it's been 2 month!!!!

1 MONTH!!

2011-10-31T11:33:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe it has been over a month since our little man was born. We celebrated with a little photo shoot :)

Enjoy!

1st month pictures

2011-10-31T11:30:00.001-07:00

Here is an assortment of pictures from Williams first month!

New Born Pictures

2011-10-31T11:30:00.000-07:00

Having a friend that is a photographer is GREAT, but having a friend that is an incredibly talented photographer is even better!! DeAnn came and took Williams newborn pictures when he was 6 days old. She is AMAZING!!! If you are in the Ruston area and want some great pictures check out DeAnn Arnold Photography, you will be SO happy that you did!

Finally Home

2011-10-31T11:24:00.000-07:00

Luke and I were ready to head home after our first night at the hospital. Needless to say you don't get much sleep when there is a nurse in your room to check your vitals every 2 hours and then a different nurse checking on baby every 2 hours. You would think that they would coordinate with each other so they interrupted your precious sleep as little as possible. It wasn't only the nurses that woke us up. There were babies crying, machines whizzing and the darn blood pressure machine has a squeaky wheel so you could hear it coming up and down the hall! Sadly we weren't able to leave with Mr. William until he was 48 hours old so we roughed it out a second night, which made it that much better when we finally arrived home.

William did GREAT at home, and we were all able to get some sleep! The next morning he got to meet his aunt Lauren and Taylor which he was very excited about. Cole even stopped by to watch a little football with him! Here are pictures from his first full day home.

cuddle time with aunt Lauren

rocking with grandma Carol

photo shoot with the aunts :)

showing off their game day gear

enjoying the OSU game with Cole

nap time with aunt Taylor

GO POKES!

Happy Birthday!

2011-09-18T14:58:00.000-07:00

Today our Princess is 2!! She hit the terrible two's about that many years ago!

She is spoiled rotten and rules the Simmering household!!

She LOVES Buddy and he puts up with her most of the time, not that he has a choice she out weighs him by about 25 lbs!

She really is the sweetest dog I've ever met. She would be happy to cuddle up with mommy all day long if she could.

Happy Birthday Kato!!

37/38 Weeks

2011-09-18T14:48:00.000-07:00

Ok so I am a slacker, and I'm pregnant with a bad head cold so this is really late and will be a free for all instead of a nice organized recollection of the past few weeks.

37 weeks
Right now I am a little over 38 weeks. Less than 2 weeks until our due date and honestly I'm not sure I can make it that long. Please start saying your prayers, crossing your fingers, toes, eyes, anything and everything you can to help get Mr. William here is appreciated. I'm willing to try just about anything except castor oil to get him here. I blame the majority of the misery on the cold but I know there is more too it, I just hate blaming my little guy so I blame the cold.

Last week we got to spend a few hours in the labor and delivery ward at the hospital hooked up to monitors. My incredibly active little boy has begun to slow his movements down over the past few weeks but last weekend he decided to STOP moving. I really tried not to worry and to follow the directions in my "what to expect" book. After about 3 hours on Saturday we got him to give us a small wiggle with the help of incubus.

the headphones we were once able to place on my belly no longer fit so we improvised with painters tape and ear buds!

Sunday he was inactive again and long story short after not hearing a heartbeat at the Drs office we ended up on the monitors in L&D for a few hours. Mr. William is doing fine, has a very healthy heart beat but is just too darn tight to wiggle around anymore. I still feel him a few times a day which is reassuring but it is not anything more than a slight flutter! Time to get him out safe and sound!!!
At our Dr. appointment we were dilated to 1 - not as much progress as I was hoping for but, what can you do?
According to google ;) there are quite a few things you can do to induce labor. I'm not willing to try them all but I have done LOTS of walking and even jogged/waddled a few laps at Cook park this afternoon trying to rock this little boy out.
I even asked Luke to do some reflexology and acupressure on what used to be my ankles and feet to try and get him here. That didn't last long because I had a breakdown when he couldn't take it seriously! I lost it. I cried because my husband wouldn't be serious while rubbing my ankles - 4 finger widths above my non existent ankle bone.

post breakdown before I got back in the saddle and walked it off
Then I was laughing and crying and it was the end of the reflexology and back outside for more walking!

Walking with my phone, ipod and a cup of ice water! Very intense!

Ok - long story short, I'm miserable. I'm impatient and very ready to meet our little one and I'm hoping and praying for tears at our appointment on Tuesday. I hear he can't say no to a crying pregnant patient. Even better would be that labor will start naturally before our Tuesday appointment!!
Now - I'm off to walk/jog/induce labor any way possible. I'm open to suggestions!!!

36 Weeks

2011-09-02T17:59:00.000-07:00

How Far Along: 36 Weeks
4 left, that's right 4 weeks left!!!

Size of baby: crenshaw melon

about 6 lbs and 18-19 inches long

Total Weight Gain/Loss: 24 lbs

Maternity Clothes: scrubs. I wear the same pair of black scrub bottoms everyday to work. I have to wear running shoes to work and tall or compression socks so this is my only option other than jeans or sweats which I don't think would go over as well as scrubs. I would have to venture to guess I'm one of the worst dressed accountants out there these days!

Movement: he has slowed down quite a bit which I have read is very normal. I enjoy the break from the internal pummeling I was getting but I really still like to feel him. It is comforting to feel him move around even if it hurts!

What I miss: being able to tie my own shoes or put on my socks.

Cravings: Food - I'm hungry all the time.

Symptoms: very painful ribs/back. I had a gallbladder ultrasound this week because Dr. M thought it may be caused by gallstones. I haven't heard the results of the ultrasound yet so I'm assuming no news is good news!

Best Moment This Week: I had a really good day at work today. I feel as if I was able to accomplish alot and that things are moving forward. It feels so good to have that kind of a day. I've been really nervous about being gone on maternity leave so feeling comfortable with my situation will make it so much easier.

Milestones: full term in a week!!! BRING IT ON!

What I'm Looking Forward To: SHOWERS! I have a work shower on Friday and a Ruston friends shower on Saturday. I won't lie - I think the thing I'm most looking forward to is getting a little Hannah time at the Ruston shower!! I haven't seen her in WAY too long since she moved south so no matter what happens I KNOW Saturday will be the best day of the week!! I know it will be 2 days of spoiling for William and I. So thank you all in advance!!!

1 MONTH

2011-08-29T14:46:00.000-07:00

Today is August 29th. I didn't realize this until 1/2 way through my work day. But let me tell you what, when I realized that my due date is only 1 month from today I threw a mini party in my office!!! I celebrated with 5 pieces of pizza at our lunch and learn. YIKES!!!!

I can't even express how exciting life is getting around here! One month or LESS!!!!!!!

35 Weeks

2011-08-25T18:29:00.000-07:00

How Far Along: 35 Weeks

5 to go!

Size of baby: honeydew melon

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +29 lbs

Movement: Not as frequent any more but when he does decide to reposition himself I am VERY aware!

Sleep: good and bad nights. Buddy is really struggling with allergies again so he is pretty anxious and needs constant loving so he wakes me up every now and then. I've also been trying to sleep on my right side. I've had some pretty odd swelling of my left leg and have been instructed to lay on my right to encourage my little one to change positions. Hopefully the swelling will correct itself soon so I can go back to my left. I hate waking up nauseous again, and sleeping on my left really helped with that. I would complain further but I know it is only preparing me for what is to come.

Best Moment This Week: this past week was a super productive week for me. I cleaned out closets and organized Williams room. There are a few additional pieces we're waiting on for his room but for the most part it is ready for him, this is a huge stress relief. Now I just have to get the guest room ready for the Grandma's!!! That's my plan for this weekend. That and working on the baby book.

What I'm Looking Forward To: Luke is back in the swing of fall basketball so he will be working the next few evenings. I am always so ready for him to get home after his games, but I am so much more productive in the evenings when he is working. I have a payroll coming up and lots of sorting and decluttering in the guest room, not to mention pages of scrap booking to do before William arrives. Luke being away for a few hours an evening will be just what I need to get me motivated to get something productive done!

And now - because we all need a good laugh now and then! Get a load of this BIG momma!!! William better appreciate all that I do for him.

multi-purpose gifts!

2011-08-25T06:09:00.000-07:00

so I've been told there are always multiple uses for the baby items that we received as gifts. Luke had no problem demonstrating this while driving us home from KS a few weeks ago. Thanks for the nursing/driving pillow Clint and Ashley!!!

I'm pretty sure he is awake in this picture ;) We did make it home in one piece and I didn't have to drive so no complaints from me.

Showered with Love...

2011-08-25T06:06:00.000-07:00

And it's official - this post has the cheesiest title ever! But it is so true that I just couldn't come up with something better. Luke, William, and I have literally been showered with love the past few weeks. We've been receiving gifts in the mail from friends that live much too far away. On top of the packages we've received in the mail the out pouring of love and support from our friends and family in Hesston was just amazing! For the first time in my pregnancy I feel like I'm prepared to bring a baby home. Of course there are still a few things we need to pick up but for the most part a baby could live quite comfortably with the things we have. I have 2 more showers coming up over the next few weeks and I've had friends ask what I still need and I just look at them like an idiot. I have NO idea what I need, I really do feel pretty prepared; however, being a first time mom I'm sure there is some amazing product that I don't have and/or even know about. So if you are one of the AMAZING mothers that I know what are some of your "must have" products? I would love to replace to blank stare with an intelligent response ;)
Thanks Again to those of you that have spoiled us. We really do appreciate everything you have done for us. And a super duper extra big thank you to my amazing aunts Kathy and Marda for hosting my family shower, and to the best sister-in-law and mother-in-law that a girl could ask for. Katie and Molly put together a wonderful evening with friends and family! I know I've said it a million times and I know I'll say it millions more but I really do have the best family in the world and I hope that you all know bringing William into this world would be terrifying if I didn't have you guys! The love and support from our parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc. is overwhelming and we couldn't appreciate it more.

Ok - enough of the sappy stuff, here are some pictures I've stolen from my mom, Katie, and molly.

can you see how much us Raleigh girls LOVE miss Emory! But how could you not - look at her!

what dad's do during baby showers :)

so I think my gma is the only one paying attention to me opening gifts. This picture just cracks me up :)

miss Emory and Ely. They were pretty into each other. Watch out Phil.

the aftermath! It's all been washed and put away now but it was a little intimidating at first!

34 Weeks

2011-08-19T10:58:00.000-07:00

How Far Along: 34 Weeks

6 weeks left

Size of baby: a honeydew

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +23 pounds

Movement: All the time. Yesterday was party day for William. Not sure what he was so excited about - maybe the new shelves. He didn't stop going all day long and it seems he has the same plan for today. There is a foot or something in my ribs, every now and then I can see a big bulge right between them. And just incase you were wondering it is incredibly painful. The only relief I get is from raising my right arm straight up in the air, I learned this little trick from my handy dandy yoga DVD (thanks Katie)!

Sleep: I LOVE it - can't get enough! My 7am work time has been slowly pushed back to sprinting in the door at 7:30am. I'm just hoping that I can continue to make it in by 7:30 for the next 6 weeks.

What I miss: Just the obvious things like: ankles, my wedding ring, bending over to dry off after a shower, putting on my own shoes and socks, etc. But honestly I wouldn't trade in a single one if it meant that I wouldn't be a mommy to William in a few short weeks. I really think I could do just about anything right now and not be upset about it as long as it meant that my little man was happy, and healthy!

Cravings: I eat alot of cheese. I guess I crave it. String cheese and nectarines are my favorite snack and I have atleast one of each when I get home from work each evening. I also eat alot of yogurt and granola - I keep it at work as a handy breakfast and mid day snack. Peanut butter and jelly was also a staple until we ran out of jelly and I can never seem to remember it when we are grocery shopping. In fact the last pb&j I had was from mom and dads house. I should have just stolen their jelly!

Symptoms: again, just the usually pregnancy symptoms. Fatigue, heartburn, swollen everything (I blame the humidity). None of it is too unbearable and I can handle it all for the next 6 weeks!!

Best Moment This Week: hearing that William is head down and starting to prepare for his departure. We have one more 2 week appt and then we begin the weekly Dr. visit. It just seems so crazy/exciting that we are really at that point!

Milestones: Baby can recognize and react to simple songs...time to start practicing your lullabies! In fact, baby will recognize frequently sung tunes after birth and probably find them soothing. Less cute news; he now urinates about one pint per day. Get the diapers ready!

What I'm Looking Forward To: I have a shower at work on the 26th and a shower with Ruston friends on the 3rd. I still just can't believe how many people love this little guy!!

He did it Again!

2011-08-17T16:41:00.000-07:00

As you all know I'm slightly spoiled. In fact my brother - in - law made the comment while we were in Hawaii that I owe Luke a new set of golf clubs or something along those lines for putting up with me. I would like to think that was a hint to Lauren that he is wanting her to buy him something for all the crap he puts up with but I'm pretty sure I would be lying to myself if I did that. I.AM.SPOILED. There, I said it. I've been spoiled for awhile now, but ever since William came along it has gotten a little out of hand. I wouldn't have it any other way. Well, he did it again. I've been complaining about lack of storage at home for awhile now and even more so since we got home from our showers this past weekend. Today - I came home to new shelves in the laundry room!

These cell phone pictures don't even begin to do them justice! There is SO much space just waiting for a little organization!! I already have a plan in my head for them. I need to make a trip to get some storage bins and containers for loose parts, but hopefully by the end of the weekend I'll have cleaned out the hall closet and moved it all to the laundry room so that baby overflow can be housed in the hall closet! I'm off to browse Pinterest for ideas!!!!

Playing Catch Up.......

2011-08-15T17:44:00.000-07:00

I can't remember exactly where we left off last time and as you can tell I haven't taken the time to look :) Let't not call it lazy, we'll go with easily distracted. As you may recall way back when we had our ultrasounds Dr. M moved our due date up to September 29th. Since then I've continued to use the original October 5 due date but I just can't seem to continue. I am due on September 29th, Dr. M has made comments about having this little boy here by the end of September. I've committed myself to this date and now I just pray that I don't go past it or I'll be kicking myself for ever straying from the original, safe October date.

With all that said I'm now 33 weeks and finally feeling Great!

I'll get back to the weekly updates when we hit 34 weeks as long as I'm not being distracted ;)

We had an amazing weekend in Hesston, celebrating with family and friends the impending arrival of our little William. We traveled home with TONS of new baby gear that will require a post all its own. I've been slowly going through it and trying to organize and reorganize his room to find the perfect spot for all of this great stuff! Luke is on "break" for the next 3 weeks which means he will have even more projects around the house to fit in around his dissertation and golf digest work. Tomorrow he will be building a shelving unit for the laundry room, and installing new blinds/shades in Williams room. I haven't even begun to dream of all the little projects but I know they will probably all be related to creative storage solutions. Pinterest will be my friend as I search for DIY storage ideas and he may hate it by the end of this little break but I just blame it on William and he can't say no!!

I promise a catch up post on showers and life at 33+ weeks pregnant! Until then enjoy our materity pictures by the talented DeAnn Arnold.

Access Code: 2db780ad

In order to view the pictures you must first create an account. When you go to the website, click the Access Gallery link and enter in the access code.

31 Weeks

2011-08-03T17:31:00.000-07:00

How Far Along: 31 Weeks

Size of baby: a squash

Total Weight Gain/Loss: 22 lbs

Maternity Clothes: yes. Living in LA and being pregnant I bought only 1 pair of pants and a pair of jeans. Now that my feet are swollen beyond recognition I need to wear shoes and tube socks most days. I am wearing the crap out of my 1 pair of linen pants and suffering through huge feet on the days that I wear my capri pants and dresses. So take it from me if you are pregnant in the heat - it is still a good idea to get a few pairs of pants and don't rely only on dresses and crops they look ridiculous with compression socks :)!!

Gender: BOY BOY BOY - So ready to meet William

Movement: It's slowing down but when he does start going it is pretty intense! He has a foot/elbow/fists or something in my right rib and it is so very very painful!

Sleep: pretty good - I just can't seem to get enough of it.

What I miss: my mobility. I can't move like I'm used to, bending to put on shoes, rolling over in bed, playing with the dogs are all becoming a bit more difficult. This growing boy is getting in the way!

Cravings: I seem to be getting a bit of my appetite back but I am pretty picky and not a whole lot sounds good yet.

Symptoms: Edema - it sounds so much more interesting than saying I'm swollen. Feet, ankles, legs and fingers.

Best Moment This Week: Oh wow, this has been quite a week. The best moment has been the foot rub I received from my amazing husband last night. He really is the best thing that has ever happened to me!!!

Milestones: This week, your baby measures over 16 inches long. He weighs about 3.3 pounds and is heading into a growth spurt. He can turn his head from side to side, and his arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath his skin. He's probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby's kicks and somersaults keep you up. Take comfort: All this moving is a sign that your baby is active and healthy.

What I'm Looking Forward To: heading home to Hesston on the 12th! We haven't been home since my sisters wedding and I miss my family! Being pregnant and 10 hours from them is not easy so this flying trip home is the light at the end of the tunnel. I just wish we had more time with them.

30 Weeks

2011-07-28T06:21:00.000-07:00

How Far Along: 30 Weeks

Size of baby: a squash

Total Weight Gain/Loss: 18 big ones

Maternity Clothes: yes - all the time!

Gender: BOY!

Movement: YES! stronger and stronger all the time.

Sleep: pretty good most nights

What I miss: being able to do things with ease. putting on socks, shoes, cuddle with the puppies, and ankles!

Cravings: none really. Trying to eat as much protein as possible. Helps with the nausea and swelling.

Symptoms: swelling, nausea, fatigue

Best Moment This Week: Pampers, Pizza, and Poker Shower hosted by DeAnn and the I/O Psych program at Tech! We brought home over 700 diapers and other goodies. We had a blast and knowing that our baby is loved is AMAZING!

Milestones: Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and he weighs almost 3 pounds. A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds him, but that volume will decrease as he gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. His eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after he's born, he'll keep his eyes closed for a good part of the day. When he does open them, he'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means he can only make out objects a few inches from his face. (Normal adult vision is 20/20.)

What I'm Looking Forward To: the last 10 weeks of pregnancy!! We have a busy but exciting few weeks ahead of us. My job will be interesting over the next couple of weeks. As of midnight on 8/1 I will no longer be a HealthSouth employee and will be working for LifeCare. The transition seems to be going pretty smoothly so far but, nothing has really happened yet. I plan to pretty much live at the hospital the next 2-3 weeks making sure things roll from one company to the other as smoothly as possible. I just hope William is up for the long hours.

Our 3rd Wedding anniversary is also coming up in a few weeks. I don't think there will be a huge celebration since I'll be in the middle of the transition at work but I know that we will celebrate with a nice dinner and time together, which is all I really want! Maybe I'll even get a foot massage - if Luke asks you can let him know that is all I need/want!

We have LOTS of Dr. appointments on the book as well. We have officially begun the twice a month appointments and I really look forward to getting to see Dr. M. At our appointment yesterday he just sat right down and spent about 15 min talking with Luke about his article in Golf Digest. He refers to William by name and seems to really care. He asks us questions and talks about his family like we have known each other for years! We feel so very lucky to have found him. I can't imagine trusting anyone else the way I trust him. I know that William and I are in the best possible hands!

We also have 3 more baby showers!! A family shower thrown by my aunts and a couples shower thrown by Molly and Katie. Luke gets to be involved in this one which I know he will really enjoy. Plus it will be a great chance to catch up with friends we haven't seen in far too long! Katie and Molly and planning a relaxing evening at Camp Simmering and I can't wait! I wish we had more time to be in Hesston but I know there will be more trips once William arrives. Can you believe all the people that want to love on little William, he is a very lucky little boy!

And Since you made it to the bottom I'll reward you with a peak and my latest project for William. This little sign will ensure that we always know which room is his. :)

Summer Vacations 2011

2011-07-22T16:06:00.000-07:00

Notice that I titled this post vacations. Plural because Luke and I went on separate vacations this summer, it was a little odd to explain to people so let me try here. When we found out we were expecting John (Luke's dad) booked a boys trip for them to go fishing in Alaska! Luke has been wanting to make a trip to Alaska since his sister Mary lived up there in 2007 but our funds have been limited so it was always out of the picture. But, thanks to John he got to experience the trip of a life time as he has since explained it to me. I ended up in Hawaii the same weekend with my family which was a complete coincidence. We went with American Family Insurance, my dad is an agent and had qualified for this trip and it just so happened that it was the same week as the Alaska "boys" trip. I of course wasn't going to say no to an expenses paid trip to Hawaii and the same went for Luke and the Alaska trip so we decided to divide and conquer. We both had a blast and while we missed each other it was well worth it to get to take these last trips before William gets here!

Caution: picture overload below!

Alaska

this guy decided to go fishing with them!

Can you imagine watching him fish from a few feet away! AMAZING

tractors taking the boat to the water :)

HAWAII

Family Picture

Mom and Dad

typical mom and dad ;)

on our snorkel trip

a little love for William

I'm being brave and showing you this just because I didn't put a different 28 week picture up. Please be kind :)

kissing my new friend :)

mom and sisters - aren't they cuties!

best sisters a girl could ask for!

on the zip line trip, I stayed back at the resort and soaked up some rays

Dinner - usually my favorite part of the day ;)

on the waterfall tour - I got car sick and had to be taken back to the resort so I didn't get to see any waterfall :(

2011-07-21T06:23:00.000-07:00

How Far Along: 29 Weeks

just pretend I look cute please. Thanks!

Size of baby: a squash

Total Weight Gain/Loss: this one scares me. I'll get on the scale again at some point but I honestly don't even think about it terribly often.

Maternity Clothes: yes

Gender: BOY!

Movement: Yes, it is much stronger the past few days and very visible on the outside. My entire stomach area will wiggle when he really gets going.

Sleep: I've slept pretty good but I'm still just on a weird schedule. I can't seem to fall asleep at night and my alarm seems way to early in the morning. I blame it on a week in Hawaii and it makes it easier to accept.

What I miss: non swollen feet, and being able to bend over. My ankles and feet are swollen all the time and I struggle to find the right position to be able to bend over and put my socks or shoes on each morning.

Cravings: none really. I am really not all that hungry and often have to make myself eat a meal. Lots of foods sound good and then after a bite or two I'm stuffed. There just isn't room for a big meal in there anymore.

Symptoms: swelling and nausea. I've dealt with the nausea for 29 weeks now which makes the 11 I have left to go seem bearable!

Best Moment This Week: I had a GREAT week. I spent a week in Hawaii with my family and then got to come home to my hubby and fur babies which is always so much fun. I don't think I could pick just one moment - there were far too many to choose from.

Milestones: Baby's energy is surging, thanks to white fat depositing beneath his skin. And since he's growing so fast (weight will triple by birth), things are getting kind of cramped in the womb. What all this means for you: Get ready for some more kicks and jabs to the ribs.

What I'm Looking Forward To: We have a lot to look forward to but I am most excited about a weekend at home with NOTHING to do. I feel like I have been running from one thing to another since getting off the plane in Monroe on Monday. We have a few house projects lined up for the weekend but nothing stressful and if they don't get done then we will finish them at a later time. I love weekend like this one coming up. Plenty of time to relax and unwind from a crazy week or two.

Back to the Real World

2011-07-20T06:54:00.000-07:00

Holy Crap people, I'm 29 week pregnant today! When did this happen! 11 weeks (or less) to go! I'll work on a 28/29 week post and a recap of my Hawaii trip when I have a second to breathe. I'm also waiting on pictures from Hawaii from my sister Lauren so go bug her and maybe she will remember to get them to me!

He Made It!

2011-07-10T17:47:00.000-07:00

Luke made it safely to Alaska! YIPPEE!!!

Now I just hope he doesn't love it too much, we need him to get on that plane next Saturday and come back to Louisiana!