Introducing Amelia Jane

She's here! After a long long wait, she is finally here. Born on Thursday, February 12th, she weighs 9 lbs 12 oz and is 22 inches long. 

We had a lot of friends and family come see us at the hospital, and we were so excited to introduce her. (For future reference: Grandma Annette brought the girls, then Auntie Lara came followed closely with Grammy and Papa. The girls came again later that day with Grandma and Grandpa, Elizabeth, Dean and Clara, and eventually Greg after he got done working. We also had good friends Grant and Becky with Gideon, Leah, and Miriam stop by and Heath and Missy to round out the day. We felt so loved!)

It was especially fun for the girls to meet her. We weren't sure how much they truly understood, but they knocked it out of the park. A little shy at first, it only took a minute of coaxing for them to want to hold her and kiss her nonstop. Josie lasted the longest, holding her with Grandma's help for a solid 10-15 minutes. Audrey was a typical two year old, moving on to the next thing after just a minute or two. She would often check in with her baby sister just to see how she was doing. Overall, they were both excited to see her and excited for our family to all be together again. Amen to that!

Birth story to follow soon, but for now, enjoy some pictures of her first few days.

How we're doing

It's been quite a week! We came home from the hospital on Saturday. My parents came back to town that morning and stayed with us until Monday night. What a blessing that was! I hadn't thought I'd need much help with the three girls but I couldn't have planned on my own health taking a lot longer to bounce back to normal. They just so happened to have a three day weekend, so once again, God's hand was evident in how it all worked out. 

The girls' adjustment has been fairly typical. Josie, the oldest who has gone through this once before when she was just a baby herself at sixteen months, is in love with Amelia. She wants to kiss her all the time and is constantly bringing her things (stuffed animals, blankets, pacifiers, other random toys). She often will hold her (with our help) which means we talk about the "baby rules" quite often since I could totally see her trying to hold her on her own. She is eager to help with anything related to Amelia, so often times she is helping pick out her clothes, throwing diapers away, grabbing various baby things like burp cloths or shoes, and just generally being attentive to what she is doing. I love this part! Watching that relationship begin between these two has been just a blessing to me. Having sisters is a gift to them, not just to us!

On the flip side, there is definitely a struggle with behavior and adjustment to a new family dynamic with Josie-girl. She has always been a button pusher when she's feeling put out, and there is no exception here. We are staying consistent with our parenting and already it's gotten better. She's pretty obvious when she needs some one-on-one time, so hopefully we don't end up lacking in that area at any time, either. She takes her role as the oldest sister very seriously and has really upped the bossyness with Audrey. Thankfully, Audrey doesn't seem too bothered by it and this behavior has even lessened a bit in the last few days.

Audrey, on the other hand, hardly seems affected. She is still happy to play by herself when I'm busy with Amelia, happy to play with Josie when given the chance, and happy to ask for help if she needs it. Honestly, I haven't noticed any major changes in her yet. I wouldn't be surprised if this changes, but as of now it isn't noticeable. She also is interested in what Amelia is doing, but it's in a less obvious way and doesn't last nearly as long (typical two year old behavior, jumping from one thing to the next quickly). She often asks questions that point out her noticing changes, like "Is Amelia wearing new jammas? Is Amelia eating from your tummy? Does Amelia like sleeping?" So far, there are no signs of aggression or frustration, which has made this first week a lot easier.

My recovery is still slooooowwwww. I am physically pretty tired and feel like I'm weighted down all over my arms and legs. The normal part of recovery after birth has been better since I lost most of it right away (silver lining, friends!), but now that my milk is in and the soreness from that has definitely set in, I'm a hot mess most of the time. I know it is short lived so I'm not dwelling on it too much, but I did want to note it for future reference.

The first few days at home with Amelia consisted with me feeding her almost nonstop and holding her if she wasn't eating. She would fuss when anyone else held her and was always eating her hands and smacking her lips if she wasn't feeding. She would not sleep unless she was being held so I pretty much didn't sleep at all at night. It was a bit exhausting. Then, my milk came in, and just like I hoped, she switched over to a happy, full bellied baby. Now she doesn't mind being held by anybody else and she isn't eating all the time, instead stretching it out to the normal 2-3 hour increments that are recommended. She has a lot of solid wake time, which I feel like we are getting earlier than normal because of how overdue she was. Her facial expressions are hilarious and we all enjoy those moments when we get to connect with her by making eye contact. I did buy a pacifier to try at night, but since she's going to bed with a full belly she hasn't needed it.

We are so blessed to have friends bringing us meals for the next few weeks. It makes life so much easier with all of these changes! I cannot stress enough to those who have friends having babies soon - bring them a meal! It is the best gift you can give. 

We are staying at home for the next few days but will hopefully be resuming regular life activities soon. I am not scared to be out and about with all three girls by myself, but I do want to feel back to my old self or better beforehand. It's been great to be able to bend over, sit down and get up without struggle, and have a bit more energy now that I'm not pregnant. Oh yeah, and enjoying that baby on the outside has been pretty great too.

Annual pancake feed

Since the last few weeks have been a huge waiting game for this baby girl who's too comfy to come out, we've been awkwardly filling time "last minute" to keep us from going stir crazy. Every year, we go to the Kiwanis Pancake feed with hubby's family. This year, we assumed we'd either be bringing a newborn or skip it since we'd be at the hospital, but she had other plans. :)

Each year, it gets more fun! There is a huge play area with the blow up jumpy games and Josie, Audrey, and cousin Dean are all at great ages to participate. I think they spent a solid 45 minutes or more over there burning off energy. This year was also fun because the kids generally stuck around and didn't get impatient with waiting in line. There are plus sides to two and three year olds, you just have to look for them (behind the whining and tantrum throwing, right?).

The picture below doesn't seem like much, but it represents the sweetest sister moment. I brought the girls to the bathroom in between eating and playing, and on the way back I told them that they had to find daddy before we could go to the play area. Josie took Audrey's hand and they dutifully walked back to our table holding hands the entire way. It was so unlike them and so adorable. No fighting! No pulling away! No complaining! Glorious. I just trailed behind...

Audrey, who ate her entire plate and then some. Girl loves her carbs, although it's hit or miss lately since her growth spurt of late has seemed to slow down.

My niece, Clara.

My nephew, Dean.

Josie girl, who loved her pancakes but just couldn't eat a whole plate. Maybe next year. Her appetite has greatly diminished with age.

Annual family photo! No more selfies. We've grown too large to fit in that kind of picture! And next year we'll have an almost one year old to squeeze in.

Baby #3 - 40 weeks DUE DATE!

How far along: 40 weeks

How big is baby: size of a small pumpkin, about 7 1/2 lbs and 20 inches long

Weight gain/loss: Not sure, averaging about a lb a week at each appointment and definitely hit the 40 lb mark. Not the best, but also not the worst.

Maternity clothes: I'm basically wearing 4 outfits on repeat. I am soooo ready to wear the maternity clothes I outgrew for post baby. Some of them hardly got any use so I never got sick of them (wrong season, mostly) and some of them work great for transition pieces even though they are technically maternity. 

Stretch marks: no new ones, thankfully.

Sleep: It's been okay. I nap most days, and sometimes go to bed early (on the couch... I just can't keep my eyes open some nights) but thankfully the sleep has been relatively good and I wake up feeling pretty good.

Diet/Cravings/Aversions: Not much appetite. I usually just eat the three meals a day with a lot of ice water and maybe a snack at night (chocolate, oranges, nachos if hubby makes them.... so going to miss those when I'm not pregnant as they don't necessarily help the waistline).

Exercise: I went for a few walks this week and my body is not loving that! I can't wait to be able to move without feeling it in the most uncomfortable places. 

Gender: another sweet baby girl.

Movement: She's slowed down a lot, and just when I start to worry she reassures me with a little nudge. It does wonders to my mental stage. I've had to stop and pray numerous times this week when my anxiousness gets ridiculous. I know that no matter what, God has a plan for this baby, but I also just want to see her, feel her, and get to know her... I know she's pretty safe in there but I still find myself worrying when I shouldn't be. It's been a good exercise in trusting God for me. She still does have marathon moving times where my stomach morphs all over or hiccups that seem to go on forever. 

The belly: She's as low as she can go without coming out! She does stretch out and kick me in the ribs often, but I simply have to move her with my palm and she settles back into a little ball. It's crazy that I can do that! I feel like we are fighting over that space sometimes. She generally stays pretty curled up so when she does choose to stretch out, I feel it!

What I'm loving: Knowing that this is most likely the last week of being pregnant, picturing what she might look like, hearing the girls' excitement as they know she's coming soon too.

What I miss: The occasional beer, regular exercise, being able to jump off the couch, all the regular movements...

Symptoms: All of them! Except no heartburn, thankfully.

The nursery: My part is done! Hubby is working on a few bookshelves and then we are truly done. I can't wait to share it with you. It's come a long way from the dump room/guest room it used to be.

What's different/the same this time: I had one day of a really bad attitude last week, but thankfully was able to work through it (haha, no, I prayed through it and God blessed me with a change of heart. Can't take credit for that). The rest of the week went smoothly. I'm definitely not as hard on myself as I was with Josie and I know I had a pretty good attitude when I was overdue with Audrey. It's such a mental game this time since I know that I am 10 days overdue from the original due date but also know that I'm only "just" 40 weeks with the adjusted date. I'm guessing that it will be 40w3d which is Thursday or 40w5d which is Saturday. That would be 13 days overdue or 15 days overdue from the original due date. Who knows?

Last appointment details: Blood pressure was a tad bit high but she wasn't concerned. She does want to strip my membranes this week, when I'll be 40w3d. I'm fine with that. She didn't check me upon my request since I didn't want to get my hopes up. All is well. Baby is measuring a week behind, just like Audrey did and just like she has this whole pregnancy.

Next appointment: Thursday, 3 days from now.

40 weeks with baby #3, 41 weeks with Audrey, and 39 weeks with Josie

Rainboots, recoveries, and more nesting

Last week, we battled a cold and fever with Josie that just didn't want to go away. I had the cold part too and I was terrified that I'd go into labor with sinus congestion and a bad cough. Can you imagine?? Thankfully, we are both fully recovered. And I'll probably still be pregnant for another solid week and half. 

I'm due next Monday, 5 days from now. I fully expect to go past that date, as always. We'll be celebrating the Superbowl by staying at home and eating pizza with my parents and sister. Chances are good that I'll fall asleep during the game. Any bets on what time?

My attitude lately has been questionable. I am trying so very hard to not have the late pregnancy blues, but each day feels like 10 days and the thought of being this large and pregnant for another 8-? days makes me want to hang my head and cry. Monday was particularly awful, so I prayed extra hard (seriously) and woke up with a much better attitude on Tuesday. I cleaned out the fridge (which for some crazy reason is actually one of my favorite/most satisfying chores even though I don't do it often enough) and did some moving of utensils and counter clutter to get it as cleaned off as possible. The joy that brings me is just insane. Walking into a kitchen with clean, clutter-free counters keeps me sane just a little bit. It's like my happy place, opposed to the opposite where it is the place that brings me closest to losing it. Does that even make sense? Regardless, after much work and time, our kitchen is functioning better and looks a whole lot better. It's still hopelessly outdated and all that fun stuff, but at least it's cleaner.

Remember last January? When we were stuck inside for the second month of real witner not even knowing that we'd be stuck inside for almost three months more? It's still fresh in my mind because of the scars it left, but this January has very much redeemed itself. On Monday, we walked to Grandma's house (there and back) with jackets, light gloves, and rainboots. Unheard of. The kids couldn't believe it when I pulled out their rainboots and told them to go ahead and jump. It was probably their favorite day of this new year. I love when the little things make them so happy. Probably one of the best parts of staying home with them all day.

Also, let's mention that my maternity coat still fits, even this far along, but I haven't been wearing it because light sweaters with mittens and a scarf have been enough for me. That's a small miracle in itself. 

I plan on doing at least one more pregnancy update post, but need to take pictures first and am in no place to do that right now (haven't even gotten dressed or brushed my teeth. Rough morning, apparently). On the bright side, I was just thinking how my hair was not working out with this current outgrown hair style, and how I wouldn't get to cut it again for a month or more with a newborn and no appointment date in sight, when lo' and behold, my hairstylist posted on FB that she had a cancellation for today during the girls' nap times. Yes please! So excited for a fresh cut, right when I'm feeling not so lovely. It will be a great pick-me-up. :)

Happy Wednesday, friends.

(some pictures of the last few weeks)

Make someone's day

Have you ever found yourself in a long checkout line and there's that one person ahead of you that doesn't have a coupon or smartphone?

Today I found myself in that exact situation. I felt so bad for this lady. She's buying over $100 with no coupons. She may or may not have even known what a smartphone was and was therefore missing out on a good deal. She seemed flustered; I jumped in and asked if she could use mine. . She ended up saving over $20! It was a simple thing for me to do for her.

Make somebody's day today! It's easier than you think.

a Good Place

Just two weeks shy of my third due date, I've really been feeling like I'm in the parenting groove. Reflecting over the last six months or so, I just have had such a better time as a parent. I attribute it to a few things. 

First, that I've learned to back off. No more "control freak" parenting, I'm simply not in control of every little thing and I've finally figured that out. The stress on my shoulders has definitely lifted. The pressure I have put on myself is a lot less. God's been working on me in this area.

Second, I truly enjoy the girls so much! They make me laugh all the time, and now that they both are talking, the conversations around here are amazing. One of my favorite parts of the day is meal time. (It's also one of my least favorite parts because hello, silliness.) We have the best conversations when we are all sitting together at the table. They are listening closely and asking questions. We laugh and just interact. The same thing often happens when we are in the car. The conversations are completely random and often lead to great questions and topics that we wouldn't have thought of at home.

Third, I've got a bit of experience under my wing! Three and a half years is no small thing (ask me again in fifty years if I still think that). I've seen the cycle of craziness to calm and then back to craziness. I know that things come and go, that each child is different, and that God has given them to us for a reason. We fit together. It's pretty amazing.

So, soon, we'll throw another baby into the mix. Another girl to add to the daily drama. Life will be crazy again and I'll probably feel in over my head. I hope I can look back on this post and remember how things even out and we get a good routine. 

Even if today we are all sick and feeling like we were run over. See? Growth. I'm pretty okay with us doing nothing at all today, because I know that we'll be healthy again soon and that we'll be back to productivity.

Baby #3 - 37 weeks

How far along: 37 weeks

How big is baby: 6.3-8.5 lbs, 19-21 inches, the size of a watermelon

Weight gain/loss: Gained another 5 lbs this month. Yikes! Can't wait to see that scale go the other direction soon.

Maternity clothes: All the time, rotating about a week's worth of clothes and that's juuuuust fine. Soon enough I'll be able to wear the rest of the maternity stuff that I've outgrown... as postpartum clothes. :)

Stretch marks: No new ones.

Sleep: Surprisingly good! Considering that I was pretty whiny about it in the last update, I can't complain this time. If I do have time for a nap, I sleep very hard for longer, usually an hour+. I am sleeping pretty hard at night as well and have no trouble falling asleep again after numerous bathroom trips. I have had just a few nights of insomnia where I am starving and can't sleep until 1:00 or 2:00 AM, but thankfully naps the next day catch me right up.

Diet/Cravings/Aversions: Food is so bleh right now. I've been loving apples and oranges, ice water (always), cereal, and toast. Large variety over here.

Exercise: Just daily life stuff. I brought up some of the baby gear from the basement (multiple trips running up and down the stairs) which got my heartrate up, and oh did I love it! I can't wait to start working out again. I know it'll be hard right away, but I'm in the "daydream about post baby" stage and movement is so desirable.

Gender: Another girl!

Movement: Yes, of course, but she has slowed down since she can't move as much. When she is awake, the movements are very visible and often cause me to reposition as she makes it known how she wants to be positioned. She wins most of the time, although I can now grab her feet a little and push her to the side or down a little if she's pushing hard in the rib area. Most of the time, it's just off to my right side.

The belly: A few weeks ago, she flipped over and dropped down a ton. It was very obvious that it happened... weird alien like body movement. A few days later, she dropped down even more and suddenly, my whole life improved greatly! I have never been as comfortable, especially this far into a pregnancy, and it's just fabulous. I have more energy and just don't get as worn down as I did in the past. She's sitting lower too, of course, which you can see visually. My midwife kind of brushed me off when I told her that had happened, but when she went to measure her, she couldn't because she was so far down. I have no idea what size she is going to be at this point. I'm guessing about the same as Audrey, around 8 lb 6 oz.

What I'm loving: See above! I feel as though I could be pregnant for a few more months. Of course, I don't prefer that, but I feel so good that these last few weeks don't feel so long. I'm also loving that the nursery is coming along. We really are mostly ready.

What I miss: I've been missing wine a little bit and definitely physical exercise/feeling good in my skin.

Symptoms: My feet are a bit swollen but nothing too uncomfortable.

The nursery: Prints are all up on the wall, sheets are done, chair cushions should be coming soon, baby clothes are in place. Now we are waiting on shelves that hubby will build for a little reading area, the crib skirt that I'm still working on, another changing table cover, and the chair cushions to come. I got out the bassinet, car seat, and we are borrowing a friend's baby swing, so there really isn't much else to do.

What's different/the same this time: The girls are so excited. We talk about baby _____(name) all the time and they have a great grasp on what will be happening. Josie keeps telling me that the baby will be coming in a few weeks and that she and Audrey will go stay with Grandma and Grandpa. She gets that Mommy will be at the hospital with the baby for a few days and that daddy will come and get them so she'll get to visit us. Audrey is always so go-with-the-flow with everything, but I do think she gets it for the most part. Her biggest concern was about going to stay with Grandma and Grandpa. When I explained it to them, she looked at me with her big serious blue eyes and said, "but I'm going to go with you." I tried not to laugh and explained that she would come home when we came home from the hospital and that it would be so.much.fun to be at Grandma and Grandpa's. She was fine after that. Love that girl!

Best moment of the week: See above. Explaining what will be happening to the girls was fun. Also, they "rubbed" the baby the other day while we sang every nursery rhyme that we knew. They were mostly avoiding naps, but I indulged them a bit and it ended up being a sweet moment.

Last appointment details: Everything looks good. I think I am Strep B positive again, which is frustrating because I don't want to have to be at the hospital early on in labor just to have the IV hooked up for the 4+ hours it takes. I so hoped I could labor at home a lot more, but who knows how it will go this time around. My midwife did agree to not have another appointment for two more weeks, and then it will be weekly. My original due date is just a week and a half away! I fully expect to see that date come and go, plus another week and half or so. I schedule out past the adjusted due date but I would be a bit surprised if I haven't had baby girl by that point. That would put me 13 days overdue from the original due date. It's possible, I mean that is when the other two girls came, but I hope she comes a little earlier!

Next appointment: Next week, Thursday.One day before the original due date, a week and half before adjusted due date.

Definitely looking full-term nowadays!

37 weeks with Baby #3, Audrey, and 38 weeks with Josie

I remember thinking that I looked decent for 38 weeks with Josie (I did look fine) but that this picture wasn't accurate, too flattering. I know I was swollen and large at this point, but I don't mind a picture that keeps me looking back fondly. :) Audrey still looks pointy, and I'd say that you can tell how low baby girl #3 is by this picture, although she really is even lower than it looks. It's hard to explain... trust me though. She's low, and beautifully head down.