40 Weeks plus 2 days

Well, I guess you can say my emotions have been up and down the past few days. When we woke up on Wednesday...I guess we just thought...TODAY IS THE DAY!!! In my heart and body I knew nothing was different but I just hoped and was anxious and ready in some ways for something to happen. But nothing did. Thursday I had my Doctor's report who verified...yes, nothing is happening! Thursday was a bit harder. I was disappointed and just felt so unsure because this is my first time. It's so close to Christmas and just a few other things are on my heart including worrying over schedules with all our family who live so close and little Levi's 3rd birthday...wondering if I can juggle it all!!!

But here's my Christmas blessings that I HAVE ENJOYED so far this year:
I made my Bucket List and here's the fun things I have checked off:

• Christmas Sleepover with Jonah and Levi
• Two Christmas Cookie Exchanges!! still enjoying these from our freezer
• Christmas Baking: Swedish Ginger Cookies, Pretzel Bark, Butter Tarts, Almond Crunch
• A Failed/Botched Sisters and Mom hang time in Summerside....I guess we can still count the 20 minutes of fellowship (It was my fault too, I forgot to bring a document and the rest of the afternoon was us driving around trying to meet Danny!!)
• Bredin Yankee Swap night-Everyone in our entire family including Bella the dog (poor Sophie  Kristi's dog...got stuck at home) but we did see her later on for a quick Siblings only hang out (minus Mike and Ally)
• Stretch Siblings Pizza Party
• Christmas Decorating and Christmas Tree set up watching Elf
• Lots of Christmas movie favorites watched already! Only need to watch a few more to feel like I got them all in including: Muppets Family Christmas and Muppets Christmas Carol and Little Women
• Christmas Shopping DONE!!! I keep thinking of a few things I "could" buy but trying to not to over do it
• Spending time with Dan's Parents *They have invited us for supper 3 Thursday nights this month!! So nice to not have to do dishes!!! plus its always nice to see them of course!! 

Best parts of (STILL) being preggo:

• I have made lists in my head and googled and researched and asked lots of questions of all the things I need. I finally feel "ready" in the STUFF department. Including a finished Bassinet that was done just in the nick of time by bedtime on our official Due Date (Weds)...
  
    This is so so so special to me. I am
• so glad it's all ready for our first family sleep over!!
• I truly do feel fine. I have no real clues that this is the week I'm supposed to have a baby. I feel heavier and trying to rest a lot. I have indulged in naps and sleeping in without (that much) guilt, and we go to bed fairly early cuz Dan's pretty tired. I feel bad cuz I usually wake up at 3 or 4 and read and sometimes wake Dan up....but he's sweet about it
• Baby is happy...kicking and I can definitely feel his/her little bum pressing against my belly and it's always reassuring to hear a nice healthy heart beat....
• So now all I do is wait...pray and keep thinking of things I need to do before baby comes!!

Merry Christmas!!

Almost a week away from Due Date!!!

I really wasn't the BEST model for these preggers shots but here they are all together: 

You can certainly see a great difference in the 6 weeks between 32 and 38...I kept meaning to take shots when I had places to go, but I'm always in a rush and as soon as I get home I put on comfy clothes. Had another visit today, but so far, nothing has changed!!! Its so surreal because my next weekly appointment is scheduled a day after my due date...WEIRD!!!

It's so very hard to believe its all coming so close to meeting our baby.

Baby's Room!! (38 Weeks)

Today I am 38 Weeks!!!! And I keep checking things off my list...these pics aren't professional by any means but I wanted to record them so I can remember all the little details...and it really is one of my favorite places now! I am very happy with it!!

I can't believe that these quilts are over 30 years old! Yowza. I was so blessed by a sweet lady one day I was subbing and she out of the blue said...do you need a baby swing?? And I did! So now I have one. And I kinda wanted a bright red or orange  barn light but was very happy and pleased with the one we got, and VERY excited when Cuz Scott installed the electrical stuff for us!

This summer I was gifted the most beautiful quilt, and immediately knew it would be perfect for our little one's room! I love how it has all the colors that I wanted to use, and just special that one of my childhood friends has given me such a special gift to use for my baby. I've been collecting kids books for years and this bookshelf was a VERY important part of the room! Oh, and when I opened up this cloud garland at my baby shower...I was PUMPED...it was exactly something I wanted but didn't know where or how to get it! I was SO happy that I got one of Hannah's crafts for my baby!!! 

So, Julie knows that one of my dreams is to go on a hot air balloon and gave me this sweet little nite light!!! I also should add that Jules and Gregg financed our sweet little curtains too!!! Thanks so much guys! And Dan's sister Kara blew my socks off with TONS of grey polka dotted hand made things (swaddle cloth, burp cloth, drool handkerchief, stuffie...like...WHOAH!!!!) And I was so proud of myself for scoring this rad rocker from Bev before she moved and priced getting the cushions covered at a fabric store ($100 bones...no way) and found this body pillow cushion for $6...so yeah...great deal!! How special is this beautiful painting by Kit...matches perfectly!!!

I can`t wait to add more baskets and organize this closet...but at this point I don`t have enough things to fill the baskets I ALREADY have...so that will come! I couldn`t resist Christmas PJs...but I just can`t even imagine which ones will be used!!! A few months ago, Dan`s sister was sorting out her baby clothes and gave me TONS of little yellow and green sleepers..which I was so happy to have but I snuck a few red ones in too...cuz you know...boys OR girls can rock a cute little red sleeper! Thank you so much KRISTI for this beautiful Hot Air Balloon picture! It`s completely PERFECT in every way!

More hot air balloon art over change table...and a crazy polka dotted bag...not really a diaper bag, but may need a few weeks to figure out what kind of bag I will need/want/use once I actually know what baby's need/want/use!!! And was so so so happy to receive so many cute polka dots at my shower....blankets, sheets, clothes...you name it! I am so thankful for my sweet man painting and updating my bassinet that was made by the sweetest, kindest Grampie who was a carpenter. He made that bassinet for ME when I was a baby, and now my baby's Poppa Stretch and Daddy will also have part in the bassinet legacy too! So sweet. 

So...like I said...38 weeks:

Best Parts:

• Last week I worked 4 days, which basically for the last year was a RARE thing for me...I was happy to have work but pretty achy and sore by the end of the week (lucky for me there was a surprise snow day last Thursday!!!) So this week, I kinda told myself I wouldn`t book in advance...I ended up working today (Tues) but that just might be my only day, and I don`t mind at all! I have a pretty bad cold/cough/runny nose and want to get my energy and health to a good place...just in case!!!
• I told my mom tonight besides my cold that I was feeling pretty great. I feel like I can climb stairs no prob and in general (besides the achy pubic bone/pelvic area and lower back pain) I truly do feel fine! But mom told me that alot of women feel a surge of energy near the end..and in Mom's words "It's how the Lord prepares you for labour..." so...um...that kinda makes me feel like whoah this stuff is getting REAL!!!
• I am so happy that for the most part my baby's room is all done... the bassinet is very close to being done. We got our car seat safety inspected and have put our cozy carseat blanket in...but are waiting a few more days to put it in the car. 
• We got a few other things crossed off our list on Black Friday...and I just re read the "What to Pack for the Hospital" handout and feel like I have most of what I need! So just need to get that all settled and tucked away! 
• Got all my Christmas decorations up (except tree)...I can't tell you how much that means to me! I am so thankful for dear Danny who did all the climbing and grins and bears my silly sentimental decorations!!! I broke one little porcelain caroler this year...which almost brought me to tears...but even Dan said I handled it good. And this afternoon I wrapped up a few gifts. I've literally NEVER been this close to being DONE shopping this Early...cray cray! But also very relieving!
• What else...I'm going in tomorrow to see my Doctor for my first weekly visit...not sure what they are going to "do" to me to "get things started"....so honestly not looking forward to THAT....don't make me say it on my blog but it involves a different kind of "sweeping"
• I am just very excited and nervous and can hardly believe that this jumping bean inside of me will soon be here and I will get to hug and kiss this baby's face for real THIS MONTH. And if its on sched....in 2 small short weeks! YEEHAAA!!!!

Christmas is in the Air!!!

It snowed on Friday night and just sent a jolt of cheer through the air, as well as a reminder of what driving in snow and icey slush will be like for the next 5+ months! But this is neither here nor there! Pretty excited for this most special Christmas ever as I wait to see WHEN this little baby will be arriving.

Today I am 35 weeks larger than life....
Best Parts:

• This little cutie kicks all the time and reminds me that they are there inside me, hanging out with us when we watch movies, eating supper and falling asleep at night. My family (well, the ones who aren't too shy so basically Kristi and Jay, have also felt this little one kicking!)
• The baby's room is coming along so well....here's a sneak preview, but there is a few more things to do before I can do a full on REVEAL!!! 
                              
  
  
• Like I said in last post, was BLESSED like crazy with tons of polka dots and loved putting the blankets around the room as well as my sweet little polka dotted sheets! Lots of sentimental things around the room...talk more about that soon!
• Bought our baby their Christmas pjs and Christmas book and on the look out for a cute little stocking for them! 
• Not much else to report. My belly's is pretty big....still have lots of clothes to wear but no warm winter jacket...but bundling up in Dan's coats when I need it. My pelvic area hurts more now that the belly's growing heavier but honestly, I can't really complain (except to Dan to get free massages). I have been VERY blessed with my pregnancy.
• Reading this book and will try to peek through the B-feeding book but not sure how much I will really "get" till I'm in it. 

                          

My take aways are to try to find a place in my head to be in control of my thoughts/fear. Try to relax and let my body do the job it was intended to do. Try to find joy and pleasure in the experience instead of my natural feeling of FEAR ANXIETY and NERVOUSness. I'm even trying not to tell people that this is how I really do feel because just having it there in my head and thoughts causes the fear to have more power than it should have. Anyways. I'm a newbie so I have NO clue what will really happen or if these "principles" will really even be able to happen but anything to help, right!!! These were recommended by my doula friend (aka Kristi's BFF Angie Stanley) and also by a random girl at one of my prenatal appointments!

• I can't wait to see how THIS will turn out too: Here's a sneak peek at the bassinet when I was a baby with my Mom and all my baby quilts:
  
  
          and here it is in progress!
• Looking forward to decorating, Christmas time with friends, baking, Family-get-togethers and Christmas movies!!!

Baby Blessings

I am 33 weeks, going on 34!!!

Well today I am just overwhelmed with all things baby. I feel kicks all the time and know that baby is on the go. I love it! I had a beautiful shower on Saturday and was blessed by so many wonderful friends and family. I always thought I'd be too emotional at my own baby shower, as I've been known to tear up at cute baby outfits at other baby showers I've attended...but my cheeks hurt from smiling!

It was a Polka Dot themed shower! I had my camera in my pocket and forgot to take pics! Luckily, I do have a few that the hostess (my sis in law, Kara) took before! Her decorations alone blew my mind, plus she got all the guests to WEAR polka dots! Such a sweet party....

and OH so many gifted polka dots too! Crib sheets, blankets, burping cloths, washcloths and a beautiful hand made polka dotted stuffie!!! I just keep going into my baby's room and sitting and looking all around! I am so close to being able to say its ALL done!!! We even hung pictures up on the wall last night! I'll wait until its all done to write a long sentimental Nursery post because believe me...this nursery is filled to the brim with sentamentality! My dear Mom has given me some baby quilts and hand knitted sweaters that I used as a baby...so we are talking a few decades of history here!!!

I just am so amazed that my baby is so loved and supported. I've been blessed so much with so many things so far and although we have spent lots of money, the things we have received for FREE or at a used price has saved us SO much!!! THANKFUL, THANKFUL, THANKFUL...that's all I can think!

Anyways, I am so blessed that I am still feeling great. I had a checkup last week and really have no complaints. I had a pain under my belly, as it must have been stretching out a few weeks back, that hurt when I walked or got out of bed...but that's doing better...a little pain by the end of the day but nothing I can't fix with a nice bath! I am getting excited to decorate for Christmas, but also not wanting to rush through these last few days. I want my baby to be healthy and come at the right time (just not LATE!!...please, not on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day).

32 weeks!!! *heading out for a Date Day with Danny!!*

30 Weeks Strong!!!

Wow! I can't believe this wee little babe is already 30 weeks old!!! In some ways I'm still getting used to the idea that our world's going to be rocked in less then 10 weeks and in other ways I still can't believe we have to wait so much longer....Christmas is going to be so so so unforgettable this
year!

Best things so far:

• We have been faithfully attending our pre-natal classes for 4 weeks so far. And I am so thankful to have someone walking through this information with us. We have been pretty overwhelmed with the labour videos, and I get VERY weak in the knees at anything "medical-ish" (could NEVER watch Rescue 911) so some of the vids have left me feeling a little unsure and alot SCARED. But thankfully, every time there is "THAT SHOT" of the mama and daddy holding this precious little one and I can't help but cry. Its the baby that makes it ALL worth it, right!!!!
• We were given a few sleepers from our sis who just had a baby so was weeding through her clothes and it was a relief to know that our baby will have lots of duck and pooh sleepers if they do happen to come early! They are very cute and I can't imagine what our baby will look like in them, but at the same time I'm looking forward to having gender specific sleepers as soon as we know what our baby will be!! I can't wait to hold them and finally know!
• I went to a Mom to Mom sale. I felt very grown up, and VERY overwhelmed! You should have seen the strollers and baby wearing that was going on in there. I didn't really buy much. I am thankful for the peace of buying used items through FB and Kijiji where I can look at my leisure, but I guess I don't necessarily always get what I want that way! 
• We are both thinking so much more about raising our baby and talking through lots as a result of our classes and baby books and observations from our own interactions with children (past and present). Its exciting and unnerving knowing we are so different but I read a beautiful quote from a book the other day that brought tears to my eyes: 

"To excel in parenting, protect your marriage." 

(Babywise, pg.27. Ezzo and Bucknam)

Of course we both don't know what it will be like when we have a tiny human to care for every moment of every day, but I truly long to make Dan a priority. I absolutely LOVE being a wife. I think it is the best thing I have ever been and as much as I want to be a great Mom, I feel like my number one job after Loving God is to Love Dan and show my children that he is the most important relationship. I have alot to learn. So maybe in a few years I can build more upon this when I have actual experience.

• We are still thankful for a healthy heartbeat and our appointments are now going to be every 2 weeks. I'm starting to feel more strain under my belly as it's growing lots now! My Dr. recommended to keep walking, having warm baths and trying stretching/pre-natal yoga. All of which I find helps. Dan's advice is to wear comfy shoes...this is not really easy for me as I don't really "dig" the style of sneakers, but I have to admit it is WAY comfier when I do. 
• I am getting closer and closer to having more things to set up in our nursery, but as of now...its pretty empty! 

28 Weeks Large!!!

So my little one just keeps loving kicking and moving and I say, Bring it on! I love to feel the kicks and know that this one is healthy and just stretching in there! I got back the results of the Glucose Test and breathed in relief that I passed!!! We have not made too much progress in adding anything else to the baby`s room! We did buy a used pack and play and lots and lots of LEGO at 2 different yardsales! Those are two important things, right! We got a great stroller with an infant car seat too and I am looking forward to trying it out next Spring! So hard to imagine....

Best parts so far:

• I have loved the steady movements and sometimes I can even feel the little body part briefly! 
• I love collecting little things for the baby and getting ideas of how to decorate. I found lovely material for curtains, just haven`t actually bought it yet.
• I love seeing Danny with his nephews and neices. And can't decide if I think we are having a boy or girl! 
• I love watching him play with the boys, and they just ADORE him. The first thing they say when I walk in is "Where's Danny?" We had a sleepover with Jonah and Levi last Saturday and Dan and I learned a little about our parenting styles that night....it was a little rough at times but we had a great convo on Sunday. I am already aware I may be a bit controlling and helicopter-ish and Dan tends to encourage independence and doesn't like schedules or boundaries in play time...lol! He also is encouraging me to put all the colors of Lego together in one large bin...not sure if I'm ready for that yet, but I can see his reasoning! LOL.

• But I also love seeing him play with his neices. He's so good at pretend. He gets right on the floor and pretends to be a cat. Last weekend we were at a soccer game with these girlies and one of them wanted to crawl on the field during half time looking for "Easter Eggs" and Dan joined in on the fun. I guess you could say my heart melted in a million pieces watching him play. He is so sweet and gentle with them and I know he will be such a great dad to a little girl as he has always encouraged my self confidence and deals amazingly well with all the emotions I carry inside! 

 

• Either way, we are both excited to meet our little one. I got a shock and wave of fear/anxiety last weekend when I held my little nephew Matthew for awhile. I still can't believe we are going to be parents and keeping this baby! It will not be going home to someone else after a sleepover or a night of babysitting....I can't believe that I will be a Mama and Dan will be their Daddy...Dan on the other hand was so excited and was saying how he wished we didn't have to wait so long for our baby to come! He sure looks good holding a baby! 
  
• Our little one is the size of an eggplant. I still haven't felt sick although I had a crazy cold for the last week or so. My back hurts a little each night but I get lots of back rubs, baths and use my trusty Magic Bag as needed. I have collected lots of maternity clothes from FB swap pages and kind friends and realized I had no idea what size I should be getting so some of my summer clothes weren't even used. I just got a bag of treasures from a girl and everything fits so that's great! I am enjoying subbing and have got so many well wishes from other teachers and little ones asking me if there is a baby inside my belly. So thankful for work. Honestly, it almost makes me cry sometimes when I think of how thankful and happy I am to work. I am glad I love going to work and that I am so grateful for every day I get to work. 

This past month I have been excited to hear and see a few other girls who are also in all different stages of motherhood and looking forward to learning from so many mothers in my life, especially my own Ma. I am so glad that I have so many wonderful examples and pray that I will be exactly who the Lord wants me to be as I raise this precious little one. 

Wind and Twilight

I just love the weekends. I look forward to Friday afternoon when Dan walks in the door. I usually feel excited around that time of day but even more when I know we both won't have to work for 2 days! We had a great weekend of visiting and Dan got to play tons of vids with his best friends. We got to eat a delicious and I mean DELICIOUS FEAST! at the lobster suppers...here's what I ate: 2 fresh warm rolls, seafood chowder, mussels with butter, a few bites of potato salad, a full 1 lb lobster, and cherry pie with icecream for dessert.....um....SO SO FULL!!!!! It was so so so amazing though. I have never had such a luxurious meal. I have never gone on a cruise or been to a resort where food is served so extravagantly...sooo this was what I imagined it would have felt like if I ever had gone on one!! Yes I have had a million yummy homecooked meals, but this was just something unreal!!! Anyways, we had a good weekend...and now its Monday.

So as I sit here on a Monday evening. Here's what is happening in my home. My best friend is relaxing with a little game of his newly bought Video game. I am in the kitchen reading a bit of my Tim Keller book on Mark (Jesus the King)....and my deck sliding door is open. All I can hear is wind blowing through leaves (with a few gun shots from the game too, incidentally breaking through the peace!!) and I can't help but think that this moment is just a small breath of "fresh air" literally and metaphorically into our work week.

We are blessed and so thankful for our little, quiet life together. Sometimes I see it as a lazy life. Sometimes I see it as a busy life. But it is our life together as Erin and Danny. The presence of our baby is here (I can quite literally feel this little one pressing up against my stomach and kicking away) but for now we have a very peaceful existence. We get enough sleep each night, we can walk out the door with a moment's notice and we are even more in love then we were one year ago when we said our vows.

I pray to remember these moments. I love this guy so much it hurts. I am thankful for how God lead us together in our "old age" and when I think of how old we will be some day at our 30th or 40th anniversary...or as we joked this weekend---we hope we won't need wheel chairs to get into our children's graduations....we are truly blessed to have each other in this little life, right here. right now.

I just feel so blessed and thankful and pray that I will appreciate this stage of life even as I am quickly approaching another one in less then 3 months (EEEK!!!)

wish I could capture the sound of the wind, but this little pic will remind me of this evening. 

A beautiful morning to blog

This is the first official week of school. I have my badge, log in, and WILL to work, just haven't received THE CALL!!! I can't wait for my first day back, and looking forward to seeing all my friends from last year and meeting all the littles that are joining the troops this year!

But...today is not my day to work. I do have an important Dr. appointment and not looking forward to the GLUCOSE Diabetes drink/test today! But really excited to see and hear how the little baby is doing! I know that there's a TON of movement so that is wonderful to feel.

This was sitting on my table after my darlin' husband made lunch for me on Sunday!!

So we are now heading towards FALL! Its truly in the air, and although that is true, it didn't stop Danny and I from heading to the beach for the past 4 nights! We were safely protected with our amazing new blow up boat, which we flip over so we both fit. I think some of my favorite moments at the beach were this weekend. Just the two of us, floating and talking and enjoying the view. 

Thinking a lot about the next season in our lives...not Fall or Winter, but the one that we will be in FOREVER. To be parents. To be responsible. To be able to love and care for another little human. Its overwhelming and exciting and in some ways so hard to even comprehend what is coming for us. Yesterday Dan read a sweet little article to me that popped up called 28 Rules for Fathers of Sons and just hearing him read it made me so excited. I truly believe Dan was meant to be a Dad. I am so thankful that we are doing this together because he has so many qualities that I don't have. I think our kids will be so blessed and will adore him (as so many kids do---my nephews a PRIME example), I am so glad it is with HIM that I get to learn and grow as a parent with. 

Its amazing seeing how God changes us and leads us and is so involved in our lives. I am so blessed and am aware of the blessings I've been given. 

What a good life!!!

When my whole house has clean floors (well the top floor, anyways), fresh sheets and blowy wind coming in through every window....thats one of my favorite feelings!!!

It's a little dreary out today, but I keep hoping to have one more swim! I bet the waves are terrific!! Saturday mornings are my fave. We usually have a yummy breakfast, and take turns making it for the other! Today I cooked up some bacon, eggs and peanut butter toast! I got to read in my bed, which is another one of my favorite feelings!!! I am so happy and at peace right now...except that one moment Dan dropped a small pile of dirt on the floor! LOL! I handled it pretty good though, and he quickly cleaned it up!!

Today my bebe is 26 weeks old!

Dan made some major progress last weekend on their room, and mama is on the lookout at all times for adorable little things to add! Here's the progress so far:

This room was the UGLIEST room of the house by far! It had a bit of mold in the corner, these NASTY blue curtains and insanely gross flooring! Last March I primed and painted it during the break and we got an INSANE sale on the flooring a few weeks ago!  Dan worked hard and did it all by himself in 2 afternoons! It looks so so good! I'll put up more pics once we get the furniture and finishing touches put in!! Can't wait to see this little baby's face in their own room!

September!!!

Ooooh! Everyone is so excited to write in a fresh month! I love all the happy first day posts today! I am even more excited to have the whole day with Dan even though we are both busy doing other things, I love having him home! I have had a leisurely morning, one that I have wanted for a long time! I got to read my new book that arrived in the mail this week:Jesus the King

Dan and I have a few new challenges for the Fall. We are going to be small group leaders together! Our church is going to study Mark and learn more about making the Gospel real and evident--- in our lives, in our friendships and relationships with all people. I was a bit nervous to make the commitment, knowing that December will bring us our little one, but there is another couple that is going to take over/help out during the last few months! I am so excited to see Dan in this role, like most things, he's not nervous or anxious at all, as compared to me! I don't always like the commitment of attending every week nor have I ever lead a small group before. I'm usually the girl that gets super passionate, riled up and bothered in the group, so I have already been praying for a quiet, listening heart to learn and allow the Holy Spirit to do HIS work in our group. My greatest prayer is that it will be a time that people look forward to and sense that Jesus is lifted up. I don't like going to small group when it feels like people aren't centered around GOD, the WORD and Truth. But this is my own issue. I know that God is big and GOOD and look forward to the Work that will happen in my own heart! 

Looking Back, its hard to say goodbye to such a precious summer. I have spent every work day with these kids:

I can honestly say that as I drove to work every day, I prayed to be an "effective teacher who is gentle, patient and kind"...but this was really hard! Teenagers are....well.....not my forte! But I was SO grateful for work! I know they learned and they were my first class to give me flowers, a card and a Starbucks giftcard! WOW! sweeties! 

 

Fall Renos are all up in here! I can`t wait to get this little room all set up for our cutie! Thankful for a man who knows how to do stuff! I am proud of him! 

I`ve done this before during Christmas time, but saw this posted on FB the other day! Looking forward to get my ``Grateful`` on in this season of thankfulness that will be upon us before we even know it! 

Today`s: 3 Gifts of Summer

• My blow up boat that I only got to use twice so far! I love relaxing in it at my fave beach Canoe Cove
• Work, so glad I got to go to work every day and help contribute to our family this way
• Cow`s Icecream...probably indulged in this too much, but LOVE Messy Bessy (chocolate icecream with SKOR and OREO and homemade caramel sauce)

6 Months Large

I'm a little shy about putting lots of pictures of my belly up, but when I saw this picture I could def tell I was chunking out!!! hahah I can still squeeze in some of my comfy clothes but I could barely squeeze on my bathing suit last night! LOL! Dan had to help pull it up! I am glad I didn't have to buy a new one for this summer though, and Dan told me I can spoil myself with a new one next summer when I get my beach bod back.....hahah (YEAH RIGHT)!

Best Parts so far:

• As always, I love hearing that strong little heart beat (Aug. 11th) and since Dan couldn't make it to the appointment, my SWEET nurse practitioner had the precious idea to call him and let him hear the heartbeat while he was at work. This time I didn't cry the whole way home, I was VERY VERY happy and smiley after hearing the great report!
• Dan and I both felt the baby's movement on the outside the same night a few weeks back, but I have been feeling lots of moving for the past couple weeks. I love putting my hands and pressing and feeling a little kick! 
• We welcomed our little nephew last week and knowing that he has arrived just reminds me that my time is coming soon...which kinda scares me (A LOT!!!) but we have got a lot to do before that....We have got our flooring bought and paint to redo our bassinet...My Grampie MacLean made this for ME when I was born....and there are a few repairs and repaint it as well as making it a bit higher as I am sure my back will not feel like bending so far down to the ground to put the babes in...plus we need to find a mattress this size! This will be the BEFORE pic...I'll post later when we get it all done!
  
• I have had the best summer, and I am so thankful I haven't had to miss any work for feeling sick, in pain or nauseous at all. There was one day I kinda wanted to stay home, but I was tough and made it through. I am so glad that I have pretty much felt physically capable of everything. I do notice I am very emo/moody and as much as I notice, my darlin husband notices it more, but he treats me like a champ and is so good to me. I can't wait to see him as a Daddy. 

Wonderful August

There is a very short season of hot weather here on PEI. So when that weather comes...all we can think to do is drive straight to the beach! We have gone to some pretty BEAUTIFUL places this summer.

Canoe Cove (10 min drive away)

near "Camp Seggie" beach with the littles!

Canoe Cove, again!! with Turner and Ally

North Rustico during Hurricane Arthur with Hebbs *for about 2 minutes, until we got sand blasted*

Brackley Beach, with my students

The BEAUTIFUL AMAZING BASINHEAD, about 1hr. 30 min. drive!! But we camped beside it so it was basically a 1 minute drive!!!

Camping in Nova Scotia at Laurie Provincial Park

MAN! I am so  blessed to live to close to so much beauty. Summer has been wonderful. I am thankful---although some days my students drive me nuts by falling asleep and constantly sneaking their phones under the desk!!!---for a job. I pray every day to be an effective teacher...I wrote out this verse and its basically what I strive for in life....3 qualities I want---Patience, Gentleness and Kindness----2 Timothy 2:24-24.

I am now 21 weeks preggers!!!

The best things so far:

• BY FAR....the ultrasound on Aug 1. We got to see all the sweet parts from the head to the hands to the toes...but did not identify a gender!!! We are excited to find that out on December 17th!! I really hope this babe is on time, cuz I want to bring them home for Christmas!!!
• I kinda feel movement but nothing that I could really for sure say "it's a kick!!" but yesterday I was really wondering! I know its the baby inside moving and that feels wonderful, but it's not really consistent or obvious yet. 
• We still haven't bought much for this little ones room, but a few little treasures here and there. It's overwhelming thinking of what to get first, but thankfully we still have a few months to budget and prepare. 
• I'm def noticing my belly's growing larger!!! I still wear lots of comfy clothes and got to go shopping a bit in Halifax for some new matern stuff, but mostly getting it off FB/Value Village! I am thankful for all the clothes that fit me, are long enough and don't hurt my belly at this moment! 
• Love seeing Danny's reaction watching the ultrasound. He is going to be an amazing Dad. I love hearing him talk about names and he already claimed bedtime routines with the littles! We have been trying to find names, but a lot of my favorites are used by people already but we have a girl and a boy up our sleeves that we like so far!!! 

So far so GOOD!!!

Summer has been so wonderful. I worked up until the last day of school.....got a half day in one of my fave kindergarten classes on Weds. June 25th....so until July 7th....I was on VACATION!!! ( although I did do a morning at Study Abroad) I just lived it up so much those days because I knew I would have work this summer. There is something about just enjoying days off and having a REAL relaxing time off! Danny even took one of the days off with me, and that day turned out to be one of the SUNNIEST BEST days! Here's some of my highlights:

Took Levi to town while Kristi was away. We had the best time looking at Toys in every store and made a few purchases at the Dollar store. He was such a good boy! We wished Jonah could have come, but he wasn't feeling good. 

Jules came to visit, and we had a great time too at Boom Burger, North Rustico, and she was a real sport and went to our Stretch Fam BBQ/Campfire for most of Saturday night! I just loved having time with her!

Took Jonah to the beach (while Levi was napping) and we had the BEST time together too! The waves were the best and warmest so far this summer and he was brave and was swimming with his tube so much! 

We went out to North Rustico to check on the waves from Hurricane Arthur! It was beautiful, but we stepped outside and got sand blasted...not so much fun...but we had a great night *didn't lose our power, thankfully* and once we got some of the sand out settled in for a cozy night at home with the howling winds outside!

We went to a Triple Header at the Drive In, but the power went off so we got free tickets to go anytime we want this summer!! (SWEET)

Dan found this BEAUTIFUL picture at Winners and we hadn't hung anything in our room, so this makes me feel so happy when I see it! 

Finally got my clothesline up and a friend gave me SO many matern clothes which is a HUGE blessing and encouragement! 

But the GREATEST thing about my summer so far is of course, my BABY!!! Yesterday I heard the heartbeat again, and couldn't help but just cry and cry because I am so relieved and thankful and overwhelmed that there is a little soul tucked inside just moving and with a strong heartbeat...although I haven't felt any movements yet, it was a relief to know that so far our little one is safe and sound in there. 

Best things so far: 18 weeks

• hearing the heartbeat again
• we found a crib and changing table on KIJIJI and its our first big purchase for the babe's room. We want to redo the flooring at some point this summer, so I can't wait to pick that out. Thankfully I already seam filled and painted over the March Break and the closet and ceiling are all repainted too!
• getting alot of advice from friends and family, especially on baby gear. Dan's sister and bro in law let us tag along to Toys R Us because they are also expecting their second child this summer and got lots of advice on strollers, car seats, baby tubs, etc. I've been so overwhelmed with the kindness of people and even offers of lending me clothes, giving me baby books to read, and just being excited with us as we anticipate this HUGE adventure
• So far I fit in normal clothes, but I am collecting longer shirts and putting away shorts/pants that hurt my waist! Loving wearing my comfy black pants, and pretty much change into my summer pj's if I know I'm staying home for the night!

Guess what!!!!

Dan and I are having a baby. 

I'm 16 weeks today!

I know this won't be too surprising for my 3 readers, since you are all close friends...but I wanted to blog a momentous event in my life. It's still very surreal for me.

I am not sick but I do have a few symptoms so far:

• not liking coffee too much in the mornings, except Starbucks!!! ( I treat myself to a few sometimes, but not going nuts!!!)
• a little moody *Dan may put a different adjective instead of (little) but he's been a champ at loving me and encouraging me. I am so thankful for this guy. He already rubs my feet without me asking all the time and is so kind and loving to me. But he rarely treats me like a baby, he's tough and gentle at the same time with me!! I feel so blessed that I get a husband like him.
• lots of bathroom breaks, especially around 3 or 4 at night, and feel a little hungry in the night too...but nothing too serious. I am usually too tired to worry about it till the morning. But I eat breakfast more faithfully now! Trying not to forget my pre-natal vitamin every morning!
• I feel a bit chubby, but so far fit into most of my clothes. I put a few things away cuz they were a bit tight but I am not wearing maternity stuff yet....I am on the search for some cute things though! I got a sweet little dress at target, but so far my maternity wardrobe is 2 pairs of jeans from value village and 1 shirt. Luckily most of my wardrobe has always been for comfort so alot of my clothes will fit me for awhile I think!! 
• A little tired, but not too bad. I fell asleep in Star Wars a few times, and we usually go to bed at a decent time anyways, but there have been a few days that I felt totally zonked and slept in and then even had another nap. But for the most part I feel normal. 

Best parts so far:

• I will never forget Danny's reaction to finding out he was going to be a Daddy. He is very excited and although we know we aren't prepared/ready/have ANY sweet clues about this...he always maintains a very confident and relaxed and happy attitude about becoming parents. For THIS....I am thankful...because I feel WAY nervous, scared, excited, terrified.....etc...
• Hearing our little lemon's heartbeat on June 17. I haven't "felt" pregnant at all, but this was such an amazing thing to hear. I can't even describe how it feels to know there is a little person inside me who can suck their thumb and even is growing toenails....Today they are the size of a pear!!!
• The amazing, unbelievably ENCOURAGING support we have received from our family and friends. It was very odd to tell people we were pregnant, but the momentum just kept building. After we had held the secret between us for 3 months, it was exciting to share the news with the people we love. I was just so encouraged by all the friends and acquaintances who sent support through wack ol' FB too. I was a little nervous to post it there, but in the end it was nice to tell people that we otherwise may not have run into personally, but still care about us. 

So my life is changing. I'm resisting some of the changes. I have loved the time that Danny and I have shared, especially in our first year of marriage. In some ways it feels soooo quick to already be pregnant, but I am beyond thankful and overwhelmed with joy that God has blessed us this way. I know that this is a miracle and I pray hard that our baby will be healthy, happy and will arrive safe. I still can hardly believe I found Danny, and this new miracle is just blowing my mind.