3 Weeks Old!

I can't believe it's already been three weeks! Hannah Grace changes some every day. This week, she's on a three to four hour schedule. It's closer to three hours during the day, and four at night, which is nice.  We introduced her to the swing, which she loves!  She seems to recognize our voices, and she follows sounds pretty well. As for her size, I'm not sure about a weight, but I can tell you she can wear three month clothes already. We totally skipped newborn and most 0-3. 

In other news, just in case you haven't heard, we're all coming home this weekend! I'm so excited I can hardly contain myself. I didn't decide until a couple of days that I would make the trip, but I just couldn't stand it. I've never, ever been this long without being home. And, I'm so ready for everyone to meet Hannah Grace! We'll be leaving early Thursday morning and going straight to Jackson. We'll be there through Sunday, and leave again early Monday morning. It's a quick trip, but it will be worth it! 

I'm going to leave you with a picture from this morning. Have a great day, and we'll see you soon!

2 Week Check Up

Today, my baby girl is 2 weeks old...

Time is already going by too fast and I want it to stop! She changes a little every day now, and I really just want her to stay small for a little while longer.  We went for her check up today, and of course, she's perfect! Already growing at fast pace... my girls have no aversion to food! She weighs 9 lbs. 4 oz now!  Her jaundice has completely cleared and left her with a beautiful pink complexion. Her hair, when clean, is a very light color, almost blond! I hope it stays and that she doesn't go bald like her big sister did. Right now, she still really only eats and sleeps, but yesterday she had two good times of being awake. She's more alert now when she is awake, and can follow voices. She has adjusted herself to a 3 hour feeding schedule, which is much more convenient than the two hour one. As for food, she's finishing 4 oz almost every time she eats! Like I said, no problems there!

Things here couldn't be much better. Hannah Grace has made this transition to having two girls much easier than we expected. Emma has been very good with her, and has finally gotten over her fear of holding her. It melts my heart every time she kisses her or gets upset when she hears her cry. I know that a day will come when don't coexist as easily, so I'll enjoy every moment I can where they adore each other. 

She's Here!

Yes, I know, I'm about a week late.....

But, it's been a busy week for us, so I'm sure you forgive me. 

First, her stats:

Hannah Grace Hodges was born on April 27, at 4:23 am. She weighed 8 lbs 6oz, and was 20.5 inches long. 

We are calling her Hannah Grace. We still weren't sure if we were going us the double name or not, but that's what keeps coming out when I talk to her or answer people when they ask her name. Emma tends to lean towards Hannah,  but that's her choice. I'm going to spare you of all details of the delivery, except to tell you it went well, with the exception of going way to fast and no epidural, only a spinal that didn't last very long.  Anyway... I'm fine now. A little traumatized that day, but fine now. 

The doctors let us go home on Tuesday, which I was very excited about. I didn't want to be in that hospital bed any longer, and Emma wasn't very fond of me being there either. Once we got home, she completely became the attentive big sister. She still hasn't held her yet, but she wants to do everything else. She's been really excited the whole time, especially now that both her Mimi and her Granny are here entertaining her every need. 

Speaking of the mothers... they have been a God send. I've done nothing but get to relax and enjoy Hannah Grace. They cook, clean, do laundry, and keep Miss Emma occupied at all times. I'm spoiled rotten, and I have no shame in admitting it! Right now, the three of them are out shopping with a massive grocery list and enough cooking ideas that should feed me for months. I'm trying to decide the best way to keep them from leaving. 

Here's a link to the Facebook photos Channing has posted. This is much easier for me, and you get a bigger variety to look at. Hope you enjoy!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2164283&id=26506735&op=6

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2164848&id=26506735

Any Time Now...

So we had another appointment yesterday, and I got the news I've been waiting to hear! 

Hannah Grace could be here at any time! 

I'm was so excited I didn't know what to do! Then, I got home and realized what all I had left to do, and went into panic mode. I think the whole "nesting" theory is just a nice way of saying soon-to-be mamas panic when they realize how close things are. I accomplished alot, but today I don't feel so hot because of all the work I did last night. 

But, the details... I've already dilated to 2cm. I really felt like things had started because I knew throughout the day Sunday that she had changed positions. I was right. She's dropped down to where she's supposed to be. So, once again, we wait. I could go into active labor today, or two weeks from now. I'm just glad to know that things are progressing. I honestly do feel like it will be sooner rather than later, just because the contractions are pretty constant. Even Emma seems to think her arrival is very close, because the first thing she said to me this morning was "Mama, I think Hannah's coming. She wants to see her bed." (Emma helped me put together the Pack N Play last night that Hannah will stay in for a little while.) I couldn't do anything but laugh at her and tell her that she just might be right. 

So for now, I'm just hanging out, doing as much around here as I feel like I can to get everything in order. I really hope that I don't end up being one of those people who thinks she's in labor and then gets sent home though. From what I've been told though, you just know.  I'll try to keep things updated as much as possible from this point on.

Waiting...

I know, I'm still slacking on the updates. But, the truth is, there's not much to talk about except how miserable I am right now, and how crappy my patience is. So, I've decided to spare you from most of that and only write when I have something worthwhile to share.

We went for our 35 week appointment today. I've gained 5 more pounds in the last two weeks, which officially puts me in the normal weight gain range. It also means I've gained more this time than with Emma. According to my doctor, she believes Miss Hannah is already very near to 7 pounds. She says that if I do go all the way to the May 10 due date, she could easily put on another couple of pounds. I'm not sure how I feel about the possibility of delivering a 9 pound baby...

I'm really not anxious about the impending arrival. Maybe I should be, but the constant back pain, and also the fact that Emma's arrival was smooth, really has me very calm about it. I just hate the waiting. I've done pretty much everything I can to get ready, so now all I have to do is wait. Patience is not my virtue. So for now, I guess I have to tough it out; I mean, what choice do I really have. From now on, we'll be going every week, so maybe I'll have more to talk about!

Just a Quick Update

Just wanted to give everyone an update, and let you know that we're still here, eventhough you haven't heard from me in a while. Last week we were really busy with three different sets of house guests, but I must tell you, we had a blast! Emma was so happy to have some many different people around to spoil her with attention! Channing and I were so happy to have other adults in the house! We started out with Mr. Ray, Mrs. Raye, and Landon while they had Spring Break. Oh my goodness! So much fun, and so much food! I think I ate more in those four days than I have since we moved here. They came loaded with more food than clothes! Most of it was seafood that does not exist in this part of the world. Let me tell you, Emma was not the only one spoiled during their visit! And, I am not ashamed! They next weekend, we got to have Chad and Mr. Tommy Strickland for one night during their annual sheep finding trip. Again, Emma was so happy to see her Doo! We fried fish and just hung out here because they had to leave so early Saturday morning. On Saturday, our friend Austin came over. He's working here alot at the Honda plant in Marysville until the summer. We usually get to see him on the weekends he stays here. Emma thinks he's another one of her Uncles, and follows him around like a puppy. She can say his name right, but she tries to combine uncle and Austin into one word. It's really funny, and Austin doesn't mind. It's always funny to watch the two of them.  This coming weekend, my mama is coming for the first time! I can't wait! We're gonna pick her up from the airport Thursday afternoon and we get to have her until Tuesday! 

I really do love having people here. It gives me something to focus on and think about rather than dwell on the time I have left before Hannah gets here. Everything up until now has flown by so fast, and now it seems to be dragging again. I know I felt the same way with Emma, but as soon as she was born, everything flew by. That's when I wish time would slow down a little. As for the little one, everything is still the same, which is good. It's all just a waiting game at this point. Only about six weeks left!

Busy, Busy Week!

It seems like we've been going nonstop this week. Usually I try to limit my days out to two or three, but this week we've been out everyday, and still not done! Monday was grocery day, which is always an adventure with Emma. I usually don't go until Tuesday, but the promise of bad weather for Tuesday sent me out early. *** I have to give a great big shout out and "Thank You!" to Ms. Lydia here, because her recipe for a beef brisket made Monday night's dinner one of the best I've ever accomplished! Channing very willing finished off the leftovers last night, and let me tell you I thought that was an impossible task!*** 

Tuesday was my 31/32 week checkup! Everything is wonderful, and I gained several pounds in the last two weeks. I know I'm supposed to be gaining weight, and I am pleased about it, but I'm always shocked when it's more than I thought. I really do believe Miss Hannah will be bigger than her sister was.

Today was Emma's 3 year checkup. I didn't mean to wait this long to do it, but we just got sidetracked with illnesses and baby issues after her birthday that I sorta forgot. Emma is of course, growing at a rapid pace. She's 35 lbs, and 40.25 inches tall. But, I do believe this was the worst Dr. visit to date. I have never in my life seen or heard a fit like the one she threw in that exam room today. And, there were no shots involved. It was awful. I was in tears before it was over. I'll never take her to the Dr. by myself again! She has no problem with going to my doctor. She even enjoys it most of the time. But the minute they come near her, you'd think someone was being murdered. It really was that bad. 

Tomorrow is our Bible Study day, which we always look forward to every week. Emma gets to go with me because they have a group for the children as well. She loves it as much as I do! 

This weekend, we will have company! I'm so very excited! The Rays, as I call them, and Landon, are coming to visit for several days during Landon's spring break. They haven't been here yet, so we are really really looking forward to having them here. Emma will be thrilled when I tell her, but I'm not saying anything until they pull up in the driveway. 

***One more very important thing to note about this week... Tomorrow is our nephew William's first birthday! It's killing us that we are missing it, but we are so excited for him, and Justin and Sally! So, Happy Birthday sweet boy! We love you very very much, and miss you terribly! 

The Girls' Rooms

Here are the pictures of the girls' rooms, finally...  I waited to put these up because Emma's new stuff came in quicker than I had anticipated.  Here's a rundown of what we've done:

The daybed in the nursery was Emma's bed. We decided that we definitely needed a bed in that room because when Hannah gets here, we know we'll have a steady stream of company. Because of that, I had to rethink my crib bedding. What I had leftover from Emma was a mix of bright greens, pinks, and purples. The greens from the two beds did not match up. So, I decided to go simple. We were given the white bumper for the crib at Christmas, so I decided the best thing to do was keep the basics white, and then keep it girly with simple, but different sheets. There is a pale pink detail in the sheets, blankets, and changing pad. It matches the pink in the daybed comforter. The name and the curtains will pull it all together. It really has turned out better than I expected it too. Even Channing thought that it came together better than what we saw in our minds. It's a very, very, girly room, but that's what I wanted this time. With Emma, I shied away from frilly, overly girly things; but this time, that's all I've wanted to do in there. Knowing that I'll have two little girls, who hopefully will share a room one day, has really changed the decor I gravitate towards.  The nursery is the only room in the house, besides the living room, that will be completely decorated. 

As for Emma's room, she needed a whole new setup. The bed in her room was my bed as teenager up until I moved to Jackson after we were married. It has been down in the basement since we got here. My brother loves sleeping down there because it's cooler and quiet. He'll have to join the rest of us upstairs from now on. My mama and I went on an Internet mission to find the new bedding for Emma's room. She wanted us to make a big deal out of Emma's room too. I agree with that, even though we redid her room last year, because she has been so involved with getting ready for Hannah. She's been so excited about all of the new things we were doing, and I really didn't want her to feel left out. So, what you see in the bottom photos are Emma's new bed. It's very girly too, but I feel like it will grow with her for several years. It's got fun polka dot details, and the sheets have tiny, hot pink flowers.  Emma loves it all. It's so easy to get her excited about something new. I just hope she stays this excited when Hannah gets here.

Getting Ready for Baby

So I know I've been slacking this week, but after the events of last week, I'd say things around here have been pretty uneventful. For me, that's a good thing. The biggest thing going on this week is that we finally have the nursery together! I'm so excited, and so proud of the way it's turned out! Channing, Emma, and myself, have been shopping in Columbus for the past two weekends getting the things we needed, and this week, I've slowly but surely put things where I wanted. Channing has been the biggest help. He hasn't complained once about anything I've asked him to do, and he gives me his honest opinions about things when I ask. All we have left to do is put together the glider and hang a few things on the wall. I'll take pictures tomorrow and show you what we have going on in there.  

Emma has been involved in every step of this process so far. I'm really glad it turned out this way, because I know now that she really does understand what's going on around her. She's been to every doctors visit, and been on every shopping trip we've made. She has really enjoyed getting the room ready this week. She tells me every day, "Mommy, I'm ready for Hannah to be here. I want to see her." This makes me so excited! I know it will still be a shock when we bring her home, but she's already learning that she won't be the only one around anymore. We've made sure that she knows she's as much a part of this as we are, and  that she will be included no matter what. I can't wait to see the way she is with Hannah and how involved she gets. She talks about bottles and diapers and Hannah's bed all the time now. She knows that those are baby things for Hannah, and that she is a big girl who will get to help with all of it. 

As for me, I can say with great certainty that I am much calmer this week than I was last week. You all know my slight tendency to panic and over think things.  Let's just say the over thinking was in overdrive last week. Channing has really been the biggest help and support throughout all of this. His done everything possible to help me talk through and process what's been going on. He's done whatever he could to help me around here, whether it be putting up stuff in the nursery, or cooking dinner so I don't have to. There's no way I would have made it through this pregnancy without being able to lean on him. I feel like I'm finally ready for her to be here, and I can't to begin getting to know her. I feel like I really missed alot when Emma was a baby because I was always looking to the next step that we would reach. I was so worried about doing everything just right and at the right time, that I didn't really take time to enjoy those months of having a tiny baby. I'm so ready for that time again. Now that I know what to expect, and having been through it once before, I'm just ready for her to be here and really enjoy the small moments with her. 

Results

The test results came back negative! Big relief! I still have to stay on the new diet until I see the Dr. again in two weeks, but other than that, it's only good news!

Glucose Test

I had the glucose tolerance test this morning. It was long, and I had no idea it involved so many needles. I won't get any results until tomorrow morning. I'll let you know tomorrow what we find out. For now, I'm going to take it easy, eat my healthy snacks, and watch all the bruises appear.

Baby Update: 29 Weeks

Yesterday we went for our checkup. We're now at the point where I'm going every two weeks. I can't believe I only have, at most, 10 weeks left. I'm still not ready. I feel like I'm just as big now as I was the day Emma was born. Channing seems to agree.  I'm just uncomfortable at this point. The other news, and unexpected, is that my glucose screening test came back one point from being positive for gestational diabetes. I will be retested tomorrow with the longer version, the glucose tolerance test. If this one comes back positive, they will send me to Columbus to Riverside Hospital, to meet with a specialist. Regardless of a positive or negative result, my doctor has put me on a strict diet. I will be eating from here on out as if I were diabetic. I don't think it will be difficult, it's just going to take discipline and alot of getting used to. I have never in my life been told to watch what I eat. Channing has decided to take this challenge on with me, and he's going to give this new diet a couple of weeks. Hopefully, we'll develop some really good eating habits that we can continue after this baby is born. I don't know a whole lot more about this except the diet change. As far as I know, I won't need to do blood sugar monitoring or insulin injections. Most cases of g.d. are handled with a modified diet. I think I can handle that alot better than having to prick my finger ten times a day. Otherwise, everything still looks great. The baby is growing and very strong. So, hopefully I'll have the results of this test tomorrow, and will be able to update you tomorrow night. 

25 Things...

So this list of random things keeps making its rounds on Facebook. I have yet to make one, even though I've been tagged to do so many times. I figured I might as well, since I'm out of things to talk about at the moment. I'm supposed to tell you 25 random things about myself. I honestly don't know if this is possible, but I will try...

1. Michelle is no longer my legal name. My SS card says Ellen Montgomery Hodges. When I changed my name, I didn't know I needed a court order to remove my first name and use my middle name instead. So, that's on my life's to do list. Not that I dislike Ellen, it's just that no one knows that name, and I couldn't stand to let the Montgomery go. 

2. I really really really don't like to be cold. Ironic huh, since I now live in a land of snow. My mama makes me travel with a jacket or blanket at all times of the year, because she has this slight tendency to freeze me with air conditioners in her house and car.

3. I hate the cold, but I love winter clothes... I still haven't figured this one out yet... I guess because I do not tan well, and winter clothes only show your face. I love jackets, sweaters, scarves, knee boots, and of course, my jeans. I could, and sometimes do, wear jeans every day. I even like turtlenecks. I have a long, thin neck, and I feel like turtlenecks don't draw attention to it. I'm weird, I know.

4. I got married barefoot. I was so paranoid about being taller than Channing in the pictures of the ceremony, I refused to wear shoes. Why no one suggested slippers, I'm not sure. Maybe they did, I don't remember. What I do remember, is my great grandmother, sitting next to my Mama, saying loudly, "Mikki! She doesn't have her shoes on!" Priceless...

5. Speaking of being married... Channing and I have been married 3 1/2 years, and I already have a new wedding ring. My wonderful, adorable, precious child flushed my first set DOWN THE TOILET two days before we made the trip home for Christmas. She told her Daddy she did it because Mommy put her in timeout.  My three year old understands revenge...

6. I got to sing for my best friend Emily and her husband Matt's first dance. "At Last", Etta James. What Emily doesn't know, is that in the car, on the way to the reception, I had a major panic attack and forgot the words. I don't get much stage fright, but I did that night, because I knew everyone there, and this was kind of a big deal for her. Luckily, it went off without a hitch, and it is now one of my favorite memories!

7. My job in college was hosting karaoke at a bar in Starkville. Fun job, but lots of trouble...

8. I got my belly button pierced when I was 18. It was the most rebellious thing I could come up with at the time. I think it worked; Daddy wanted to strangle me...

9. I took that same piercing out two years later. I'm so glad I didn't go the tattoo route...

10. I love big dogs. When I say big, I mean the ones that weigh more than me. Little ones just ask to get stepped on...

11.  I'm a ridiculously fast reader. It's too bad I can't apply that talent to anything practical...

12. I have the taste buds of a 3 year old when it comes to cereal. I still love my Captain Crunch! I'm trying to be more sensible though, for the sake of my unborn child; I've graduated to Honey Nut Cheerios now.

13. I crave sweet tea everyday. I took it for granted before. In Mississippi, everyone has it. In Ohio, only McDonald's has it... sad...

14.  I love the show Kitchen Nightmares. I have no idea why, because it would make any other person sick to see what this guy finds, and then make you terrified to eat out again. I can't help it though, I've even got Channing hooked now.

15. One of my favorite pleasures is a pedicure. I could go for one weekly. But, I hate manicures. One bad experience several years ago, and I'll never let someone do my fingernails again.

16. I'm not a baker, but I do like to make cupcakes from a box, and then make fun colored icing. My child, and my husband enjoy them, so why not?

17. Most strangers think my mama is my sister, and that Emma is her child. I really look forward to the day those genes kick in for me...

18.  My favorite fruit flavor is watermelon, but I can't stand a real watermelon. I think it's the texture.

19. I'm the fourth of five living generations on two different sides. I think that's pretty cool...

20. I adore my brother, even though I have scars that are his fault. He would argue against that though. He's is the funniest person I know; and Emma thinks so too.

21. I've had lots of animals over the course of my life. Not one of them has ever had the same name. I just refuse. Some have argued it didn't matter if the name was used for a different species. It matters to me.

22. I'm really running out of ideas here...

23. I still know all the songs from the old Disney movies. Emma thinks it's hilarious when I sing along with them.

24.  I do not have one favorite color. I go through cycles. Right now, I'm on green. Pink will probably be next when Hannah gets here, and blue always runs a close second.

25. This thing took the better part of the afternoon to do. I kept having to leave and come back to it cuz I kept running out of ideas. I really hope you find some of it slightly amusing, otherwise, this was pointless...

The Cure for Homesickness...

GRANDPARENTS!!!!!

My grandparents, better known as Mawmaw and Pawpaw, came for a visit! They got here last Friday, and left early today. Let me tell you, it was exactly what I needed! I've really been in a funk for a while now, and the Mawmaw can always tell. So, on Wednesday afternoon, they called to say they would be heading my way on Thursday.  I sure hope their long drive was worth it, because it was exactly the pick me up I needed! We didn't make any big plans, or really do anything special. It was just enough to have them here. Emma was so thrilled to see them too. She managed to find a way to their room every night, and of course they wouldn't hear of anything different. She taught them her special way to play hide and seek, and I think they played at least two hours a day. Mawmaw and I cooked a Valentine's dinner for the four of us; then Channing and Pawpaw fried catfish on Sunday night. Sunday afternoon, Pawpaw helped me transplant my near dead herb garden into a nice pretty box. I just hope I can keep it going now that he's got me on the right track. 

It always puts me in a special mood to be able to see Emma with them. These two amazing people have been a major and constant force throughout my entire life. It's always been a prayer and a hope that my children would get to experience them the same way that I have. No matter how old I get, Mawmaw is still going to cut my cinnamon toast into little pieces, and Pawpaw is still going to try to peel my oranges. It was so awesome to see Emma get to be in that spot. She absolutely adores them, and of course they are just as crazy about her! Channing picks on me and tells me how spoiled I am from them, and that's ok, I know. I'll never take it for granted either. I know how lucky I am to have them both still here, and to have so a wonderful, close relationship with them.

So, to Mawmaw and Pawpaw:

Thank you for everything! We had a blast, and it was just the treat that we all needed! We can't wait to see you again, and hopefully there will be another of us for you to meet, and no more cold! We love you both!

Michelle, Channing, and Emma

Birthdays and Babies

I know everyone has wanted pictures from Emma's birthday, and I still have every intention of posting them, but the computer hasn't liked me at all this week! All the pictures are on the desktop, but I'm having trouble getting them out of their files. I'm gonna have to get Channing on this ASAP. 

Emma's birthday party was great. She had a blast and so did her little friends. We had 3 little boys and their parents over for cupcakes and ice cream. They had a great time playing and eating. She was more interested in playing with them than opening her gifts. The Papa (my daddy) made the trip up here for the party too. We were all very happy to have him here, as always! Thank you to everyone who sent cards and gifts! She has had a wonderful time this week rereading all her cards and playing with all her new toys. Her surprise from us was a fish! Channing and I had discussed this and all we were gonna do was get a beta and a bowl. Low maintenance. So, the night before the party, Channing went to get the fish. He came back with a full size aquarium... and the beta. One fish, big tank....  But, it has turned out fine, and this fish, quickly named Nemo, has been hilarious to watch. Emma loves watching and feeding him,  and I even catch myself laughing at him. It was a very successful birthday.

Tuesday was our checkup with another doctor, and I've decided she's my favorite, and I'm gonna stick with her through the end. There's no guarantee that she'll be the one to do the delivery, but I will be hoping. Everything still looks fine, and I'm still gaining weight. I had my glucose test on Thursday, and I assume it was negative, because I didn't hear anything back from it. Dr. Crockett told me they would be taking me off the meds at 34 weeks (last week of March). She said the baby's lungs will be developed enough that should she be born after that, she'll be fine. Channing and I are planning to take a tour of the hospital withing the next week or so to become acquainted with this hospital. I don't want to show up and not know where to go.  I've gotten to the stage where I'm uncomfortable in one position for more than about 15 minutes. Sleep is a little better because our mattress topper finally came in. My feet and legs are starting to swell if I'm out very long, but that hasn't been too bad yet. I'm pretty good at knowing how far to push it. It finally hit us today how much we have to do to get ready, and we haven't even started. I really want to have everything done before they take me off the meds, so I have 7 weeks to get started and done. At this point with Emma, I already had everything done but clothes washed and hung up.  

Other than all that, it's been pretty quiet around here. It was really cold this past week, but we are looking forward to a heat wave this week! All the way up to the 50s! Most of the snow is melted, and has left a muddy mess! I'm gonna keep trying with the pictures, and hopefully I'll get it worked out in the next couple of days! We hope you all have a great, warm week!

The Big Girl Haircut

I just want to cry! One haircut and I have a totally different child. There is nothing baby about her anymore! I can't believe that she'll be three tomorrow! I don't know where the years went, but I really just wish that time would slow down a little. She's so big, and what's worse, she knows it! For the first time, I've resigned myself to the fact that she really does look like me now. My family says they've seen it, but I've always seen more Channing in her. This is now almost identical to what I looked like at this age. Even her hand gestures and the way she walks looks like me now. 

Although I am very sad that my baby isn't a baby anymore, I do know that I don't have much longer until our new baby is here. But no matter how many kids we have, or how old she gets, she'll always be my baby; and she'll probably get tired of hearing it!

A Bunch of Pictures...

So here are the new snow pictures I promised. I have no idea how much we ended up with, but I do know it was over 10 inches. There was probably still 6 inches on the ground from the last snow. It still looks like this outside, but we did actually have some sun today. It didn't melt anything though because we haven't made it above 20 degrees...

These are from yesterday afternoon. I decided that for her 3rd Birthday, I should go on and cut her hair. I've been avoiding it for a while now, but it finally got to the point it wasn't worth the fight anymore.  I'll post more pictures in the next post of how cute it has been today. 

Snowed In...

So this is what we woke up to this morning:

I have no idea how much we've had, but what I do know, is that it is still coming down. It's not supposed to let up before 3 or so. Channing told me he had to dig his truck out this morning and use 4wd to get to work. The bright side to this thing, is that we didn't get the ice that has plagued the rest of the state. I'm just glad I did all my errands yesterday. Just a little while ago, I watched the huge black lab that lives across the pond come out for his morning break. The snow was all the way up to his belly, but he didn't seem to mind at all.  Anyway, have a good day, and I hope you are all able to move about freely!

Since I've Been Gone

So I know I left the last post ended with a promise with another soon to follow.... Sorry about that...

For what it's worth, I did take the snow pictures. We ended up with a foot before it quit. It finally got to the point that you really couldn't tell how much there was because everything blended together. Anyway, I did take them, and they were pretty good; then I accidentally deleted them. So typical, I know. I went through the next couple of days intending to take more pictures, but I didn't. I feel like this isn't the end of the snow, so I'll try to make up for it. 

Last Saturday, Channing and I got to out for our first date night since our anniversary. We had a great time. We ate dinner at a very nice seafood restaurant in Columbus, then we went to a rodeo in downtown Columbus. Apparently, this wasn't just any rodeo... This was reality rodeo. Yes, read it again... reality rodeo...  I had no idea there was such a thing.  It is a new series that will be airing on Spike TV called World's Toughest Cowboy.  Now, I do not claim to be an expert on rodeos. I have seen plenty throughout the span of my life, so I do know what's going on and what a good ride should look like. But I must tell you... These guys were not that impressive. It's 12 cowboys who compete in three different events: Saddle bronc riding, bare back bronc riding, and bull riding. The horses were terrible. All the guys rode them. The only good ride we saw was the one guy who got thrown back into the gate and broke his foot and ankle the first go round. He went on to ride for the next two rounds, and won the competition for the night.  I think he was the only who actually rode a bull. Our favorite part of the whole night was the monkey who rides the border collie and herds the sheep. That monkey is 22 years old now. The next best part was at the very end when they had mutton-busting. That's sheep riding for those who don't know. We were crying we laughed so hard at those little kids.  We really did have a great time though. It was just so nice to get out and spend a few hours together just the two of us. 

On Sunday, Miss Emma came down with the stomach bug. A decent trip to the ER for some good meds and she was great. The worst part apart about was trying to explain to her why shouldn't she couldn't eat.  By Tuesday, Channing had it, and last night, I got it, on top of a sinus infection already making a problem. Needless to say, it's been a rough week.  Emma and I are much better, Channing however is not. He will be seeing a doctor in the morning.  In other news, the baby checkup last week went well. I totally forgot to update everyone on it. You will all be happy to know that everyone took very good care of me while I was at home. I gained alot of weight, which my doctor was thrilled about it.  The contractions are still there, but not as bad with the medication. She did tell me that they plan on taking me off the meds at week 35, which will be the first week of April. She said after that, the baby will be fine if born a few weeks early. April all of a sudden seems very, very close. I have alot to do to get ready for this new baby. 

Something to think about: Emma will be three next Saturday! I have no idea where three years went...

100 Things

So I found this on my cousin Suzanne's blog and I thought it looked fun. Just copy and paste to your own page, then bold the things you have done. Don't expect me to elaborate on some these...

*FYI* Snow post coming later. It's really piling up out there right now...

1. Started your own blog

2. Slept under the stars

3. Played in a band

4. Visited Hawaii

5. Watched a meteor shower

6. Given more than you can afford to charity

7. Been to Disneyland/ Disneyworld

8. Climbed a mountain

9. Held a praying mantis

10. Sang a solo

11. Bungee jumped

12. Visited Paris

13. Watched a lightning storm at sea

14. Taught yourself an art from scratch

15. Adopted a child

16. Had food poisoning

17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty

18. Grown your own vegetables

19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France

20. Slept on an overnight train

21. Had a pillow fight

22. Hitch hiked

23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill

24. Built a snow fort

25. Held a lamb

26. Gone skinny dipping

27. Run a Marathon

28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice...no, but i've been to venice!

29. Seen a total eclipse

30. Watched a sunrise or sunset

31. Hit a home run

32. Been on a cruise

33. Seen Niagara Falls in person

34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors

35. Seen an Amish community

36. Taught yourself a new language

37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied

38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person

39. Gone rock climbing

40. Seen Michelangelo’s David

41. Sung karaoke

42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt

43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant

44. Visited Africa

45. Walked on a beach by moonlight

46. Been transported in an ambulance

47. Had your portrait painted

48. Gone deep sea fishing

49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person

50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling

52. Kissed in the rain

53. Played in the mud

54. Gone to a drive-in theater

55. Been in a movie

56. Visited the Great Wall of China

57. Started a business

58. Taken a martial arts class

59. Visited Russia

60. Served at a soup kitchen

61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies

62. Gone whale watching

63. Got flowers for no reason

64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma

65. Gone sky diving

66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp

67. Bounced a check

68. Flown in a helicopter

69. Saved a favorite childhood toy

70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial

71. Eaten Caviar

72. Pieced a quilt

73. Stood in Times Square

74. Toured the Everglades

75. Been fired from a job

76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London

77. Broken a bone

78. Been on a speeding motorcycle

79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person

80. Published a book

81. Visited the Vatican

82. Bought a brand new car

83. Walked in Jerusalem

84. Had your picture in the newspaper

85. Read the entire Bible

86. Visited the White House

87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating

88. Had chickenpox

89. Saved someone’s life

90. Sat on a jury

91. Met someone famous

92. Joined a book club

93. Lost a loved one

94. Had a baby

95. Seen the Alamo in person

96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake

97. Been involved in a law suit

98. Owned a cell phone

99. Been stung by a bee

100. Read an entire book in one day

I Hate the Snow!

So I was all excited about taking pictures of our six inches of snow this morning. I was ready to share them all with you. Then I got the forecast for tomorrow. I've decided to wait. Tomorrow, we will experience our very first Alberta Clipper. I have no idea what the significance of that is, except that we are expecting 3+ inches between the hours of 4 am and 1 pm. Oh joy! I actually have to be out in the mess tomorrow. I really thought I was doing well, being out and about today. I'll have to let you know how I do tomorrow, but I don't expect it to be good. Not only will we be getting more snow, we will begin to experience a "Polar plunge" in temperatures. On Thursday, our high is 8. Low 0. I'm preparing to become a hermit. Feel free to call and check on me, I'm sure I'll be inside. 

While I Have a Few Minutes....

I thought I'd fill you in on the new book obsession. It looks like I have a full day devoted to laundry and football.... Yay for me!  

At the end of the last post, I told you that I had started a new book series. Well, if you are one of the very few like me who hasn't already read it, I'm gonna tell you why I started. I've now read the first two books of the Twilight series, by Stephanie Meyers. I assumed it was just another fad like the Harry Potter books, but for a little bit older crowd. It got to the point that every time I got on the computer, more and more adults were reading these things too. Then I was at home, and I found out my aunt and my cousin were reading them together. When E told me she liked them, that did it for me. She and I have similar tastes in books and authors. I knew that I couldn't hold out any longer. My biggest problem is knowing that if I like one book, I will become obsessed until I finish them all. Knowing that there were already four of them, I was really hesitant to begin. I'm also not very fond of things that Hollywood gets involved in. I can not name one movie based on a book that was as good as the book. I can come up with a couple that were close, but no movie can capture all the emotions and detail that an author can convey. I have come to that same conclusion about Twilight, but we'll get to that in a moment.

First, I got the first book, Twilight, still skeptical on how I would respond. Now, I do love vampire stories. I was interested to see how someone could write a good vampire book for a younger crowd. I must say I was impressed. Meyers took a legend as old as time and adapted it beautifully for a new age group in a very new time. This book is a wonderful, first-love, story without the inappropriate issues. Very clean, and as innocent as possible when a vampire is involved.  I finished in less that 24 hours. Sometimes I hate how fast I read. I immediately had to have the rest. However, when I got to Barnes and Noble the next day, they only had the second one, New Moon, in paper back. I got it, but I knew it would take me about the same amount of time to finish that one, and I'm not really a very patient person. It did actually take me two days because of the packing and traveling. I'm not going to say much about this one, except that it is, to me, better than the first, and dives more into the complex emotions of the main character. It's more suspenseful than the first, with a much more interesting plot line, and leaves you hanging at the end. I can not wait to find the next two. 

As for the movie, I think I will see it, but I'll wait until DVD release. I just cannot imagine any way that a movie could capture the emotional turmoil that constantly exists in the thoughts of the main character. But, so many people are raving about the movie as much as the book, so I'll reserve judgement until I actually see it. 

If you've read these, seen the movie, or plan to do both, let me know what you think. I love comparing the different perceptions. 

We're Back!

So we're back, and honestly, we kinda wish we weren't. We got home yesterday afternoon, and were welcomed by about 4 inches of snow with it still coming down. The projected highs for Thursday and Friday are somewhere around 11 degrees with a low of 0. Fun stuff.  I'm just absolutely thrilled. Anyway, it is good to be back in our place. It was great to unpack all the bags and put things up for the first time in over three weeks. Emma seems glad to be back too. She has fallen back into her sleep schedule, but we are going to have a time getting her accustomed to doing what we want her to do again. Three weeks with grandparents spoiled her just a little....

The trip itself, was wonderful. It was so great to be home and relax. We did a lot of bouncing around between families, but I honestly didn't mind. I told more than one person that I relaxed more the entire time I was home than I have since I moved here. We ate so much amazing food, that my scale today is hitting a number I didn't expect to see quite yet. I bet my doctor will be thrilled when she sees me on Tuesday.  Channing and I didn't do any of the eating out when had planned on because everyone made sure that they had all our favorite meals every time we sat down at the table. I think we were really spoiled too. 

Even Hannah Grace had a party while we were there. Channing's family surprised with sweet little girl gifts and a beautiful cake. Santa himself came to see the rest of the kids at the end of the night. It was a great night all around. 

The time went by much too quickly. Neither of us was ready to leave, but we were ready to unpack. We took way too much stuff with us, and came back with about three times what we took. We had to rent a U-Haul to come home. I am definitely not kidding.  The food wasn't the only thing they spoiled us with.  

I'll post later about the books I read while gone, and the enlightenment we had about Miss Emma's understanding of complex concepts. Here's a clue to both: Twilight and Revenge....

All I'll say now is that I bought into the madness, and my child is far more advanced than we thought.....  Some of the family is already familiar with the latter issue, so for the rest of you, stay tuned; it's worth the wait!