Christmas 2009

Well it was our first Christmas, and it was great! Kenna is getting so big. We can't believe she will be 5 months in a few days. Here are a few pictures from the holidays.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Well Kenna is 10 weeks old, and Mike and I were just talking about how much easier parenthood is from a few weeks ago. Kenna is so awesome and everyday she is doing new things. Here are a few things she is up to now...

She can hold her head up and look around for us when she hears our voices.
She sleeps in her big-girl-bed.
She tries to roll from her back to her tummy. She gets so angry when she can't do it, but it won't be long.
She likes to look around and watch people.
She stands up and her legs are getting stonger.
She smiles when she sees me.

My favorite time of day is in the morning when I get her up for work. Sometimes she is awake and other times I have to wake her. I love it because she likes to cuddle and stretch. Most of the time I just rub her cheek or head and watch as she starts to fall back asleep. She is the most precious thing in my world, and I still can't believe I'm her mommy. She reminds me of all the good things in life, and I thank God everyday for her. I hope you enjoy the pictures of our little angel...

2 Months Old

Kenna looking so cute in her new dress.
The hat, sweater and booties that Aunt Melissa knitted Kenna.

Such a cutie!

The family before Mike and I went on our first date night....

Well today our little girl is 2 months old. I can't believe how fast time is flying by. This week was also my first week back at work. We were lucky that my mom offered to use her vacation time to stay with McKenna. It has been a very tiring week, but I think this is going to be a great year. I took some new pictures of McKenna, and some of us before Mike and I went on our date night. We had a great time, but were both yawning by 8:45. That is when we realized that we are either old, parents or both. Anyway, enjoy the pictures.

7 Weeks

Well this past Saturday our little girl turned 7 weeks old. I can't believe how fast time is going and she is growing so fast. Kenna can already hold her head up for about 10 seconds on her own and she loves to look around now that she can focus better. She also stays awake more during the day and has started sleeping through the night...at least a couple of them. The thing that melts my heart the most is she recognizes me now. When I get her up in the morning or I'm changing her diaper, she will smile so big at me. I especially like it when she starts cooing at me and laughing. It is like we have our very own special language that only the two of us know. I have started to recognize her cries and I'm better at figuring out what is wrong and how to make it all better. I know that the first few weeks were tough, with her colic and all, but the last few weeks have been awesome. I think her colic has gotten better, or I just block it out better! =) Anyway, this is my last week at home with her. My mom is coming down next week to stay with her during the day. I think that will help make me feel better while at work. Then she will go to Mrs. Sandy's after that. I know she will be in good hands, so I'll be fine. I will miss her during the day, but hopefully it will make the days go by faster. Anyway, here are a few new pics of our growing girl.

Chilling out with Dad
Dad figured out a way to help me sit up...however, I don't feel too comfortable.
Such a big girl.

1 Month Old

Well McKenna is now 1 month old. It is amazing that she is growing so fast. We have had a good past few days, so things are going well. Last week I took her to the doctor and she thinks Kenna has colic. I bought some Gripe Water and have been giving that to her several times a day. It has seemed to help. We have also found out that she likes to nap on our tummies during the day. Not such a bad thing, because then if forces me to sleep also. Today I took two 1 1/2 hour naps with her. It was great! I can't believe I only have 4 weeks left before I have to go back to work. I am excited about the school year, because I hear we have some really sweet kiddos. I just get nervous about sending her to daycare, although I know Mrs. Sandy will take good care of our baby. Today is also the first time I allowed her to sleep on her stomach during nap time. She sleeps so well on me when she is laying on her tummy, but when I put her in her crib she cries after a few minutes. So, I figured since she has such a strong neck and can already hold it up, it would be safe just for nap time. Of course I have checked on her a hundred times in the past 30 minutes! =) She has also started cooing and "talking" to her stuffed animals. Every once in a while she will bust out laughing, which is the cutest thing ever. We have taken her to the mall twice and she went to Chili's with us this past weekend. She is such a good baby. We just love her so much. I take so many pictures of her, but here are a few I took last night during her bath (which she loves) and when she was hanging out with mom.

She loves when Daddy sprays her with water...even if it gets on her face...crazy girl!

Wide awake...so adorable...

Hanging out with mom...probably about to eat...=)

New pics of our girl

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2 Weeks Old

Well I know I have fallen behind on posting, but my time is spent with McKenna and trying to rest so my incision will heal. I can't believe Kenna is already 2 weeks and 2 days old. She is growing so fast, and she isn't the same little girl we brought home from the hospital. Her cheeks are getting bigger, and I think she has gotten a lot longer. We have had a couple of rough days, but I think it is due to my diet. I sometimes forget that what I eat can hurt her little belly. Mom has to do a better job on this from now on. Other than that she is great. Mike is still loving every minute of her, and we with he could stay home with us also. My mom ended up staying a few more days, because I had another hematoma develop under my incision. That was quite an adventure last week. As of today, it is much better and the hematoma drained out so it looks much better. I have a doctors appointment today with Dr. Smith. I think she is going to be very happy with how well it looks now. I know it feels good to see things returning to normal.

We went to Kaufman on Friday for a short visit. I wanted to take her up before the students and germs returned. We had a nice visit, but it was cut short because Kenna was getting fussy. We hope to go to Daddy's work soon, but we are going to have to wait until Mommy can drive. I think I can try soon, but I'm not pushing it. It has been so nice having my mom here to keep me company during the day, and she lets me rest when Kenna is sleeping. However, my mom has been doing way too much. I think all the laundry, cleaning and mowing is done and she is still asking what can she do next. It will be different next week when she isn't here....tears...but I know that eventually I was going to be here with Kenna. It is just a little scary as a new mom...Well hope everyone has a great week. I will post more pictures soon. Promise!

McKenna Renee Welch

Aunt Day with Baby Kenna

Daddy Mike adores her....

Mommy meets her little girl...

Mike and I in the recovery room... Daddy Mike showing off our little angel, McKenna Renee

Well I know this is late, but McKenna Renee Welch entered our world on Saturday, August 8th at 12:13 a.m. We were called into the hospital on Thursday around 10:30 p.m. to start the Cervidil. Friday morning Dr. Smith came in and broke my water around 8:00 a.m. and I got my epidural. Most of Friday I was pain free, and I think I once said, "This is easier than I thought." I ate those words quickly after that. By Friday evening the epidural was wearing off and my cervix was not dialating fast enough. I had a band of scar tissue that the nurses were trying to break, but after 24 hours of labor my doctor came in and suggested a c-section. The only other choice we had was to turn off the Pitocin, try to rest through the night and start the Pitocin again Saturday morning. By this time I was exhausted and the contractions were wearing me down quick. After talking with Mike we decided to go with the c-section. I was really upset and felt like I was letting Mike down, so I cried for awhile, but he reassured me that we gave it our best shot.

They got us ready for the c-section about 10:30 p.m. but we were bumped, because an emergency c-section came in through the ER. So around midnight I was rolled into the operating room, and by 12:13 a.m. our little girl was here. I got to see her for a brief second, but Mike taped Dr. Smith getting her out of me. Then Mike brought her over to me before he carried her to the nursery. After that I was stitched up and sent to the recovery room. They would only allow one person back at a time, so Deborah came back first. She said that Kenna was perfect and that I did a great job. My mom came back next and we sat and watched the time pass by. I was so ready to hold my baby girl. Finally, about 2:30 a.m. my nurse Robin rolled me to my room and Mike put my girl in my arms. It was love at first sight. We had a room filled of visitors, and everyone wanted to hold her. All together my parents, Nee Nee and Huey, Aunt Day, Aunt Niki and Uncle Aaron, Tricia and Stacie all got to see our precious angel. Around 3:15 a.m. everyone left except Mike and Deborah. I finally got to breastfeed my little girl, which was the one thing I wanted to do no matter what. We got very little sleep that night before the visitors started rolling in on Saturday.

Now we are home and Kenna is already a week and a day old. She has changed so much since she was born. She isn't as chubby, and she makes the cutest facial expressions. Mike and I spend a lot of our time just staring at her. Deborah was here for the week, and had to leave on Sunday to go back to work. My mom is going to come down and spend the week with me, since Mike has to go back to work too. I think she is ready for some Oma time with her little girl. I hope you all enjoy some of the pics I posted. I have a total of 681 right now, but I figure that is too many to post...=) Thanks for all of the thoughts and prayers during our special time. Love you all and God bless!

Due date comes and goes...

Today is our due date..it is crazy to think that 10 months ago we just found out we were having a baby. My friend Tricia took me to the hospital today to have my blood work done for the induction on Friday. We sat there almost an hour to find out that blood work is only good for 72 hours, and I have to go back on Thursday. Priceless. However, I did go ahead and sign all of my paper work, so all I have to do on Thursday is go straight to the lab. Also, I am going to be admitted on Thursday at 5 p.m. to start the Cervidil. Hopefully this will start opening my cervix so that Friday morning they can start inducing me. It is hard to believe that by the end of the week McKenna will be here...one way or another.

Trying to sleep anymore seems pointless to me, since every time I lay down I feel like I can't breathe. Last night I went to sleep on the couch so I could prop myself up. It wasn't the most comfortable thing, but I felt my tossing and turning was keeping Mike up. Later did I find out that he didn't even remember the conversation we had when I moved to the couch, so I guess I wasn't keeping him awake. =) I slept from about 2:00 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. and then I moved back to the bed until 8:00. Not a lot of good sleep, but I guess I can't be picky right now.

Well I will have my laptop at the hospital and I will try to update my blog as soon as I can. I know we have a lot of people coming in from Elgin that are ready to meet her. Plus, the amount of people here in Houston that are patiently waiting her arrival...it should be a crowded room. I just feel great that so many people are as excited as we are. Keep checking back this weekend for any updates...Happy Tuesday!

New News!

Well yesterday I was at home and Dr. Smith called. We had yet another visit to the ER on Thursday, because I have been feeling sick for the last week. Dr. Smith was concerned that I might have the swine flu and wanted me to get checked out. Don't worry, I don't have the Pig Flu! I was having constant headaches and feeling achy all day for about a week, so she was just being careful.
She called back yesterday and said that she doesn't think my cervix is going to open without some help, so she wants to start the induction either Tuesday or Wednesday evening. I will go in at 5 p.m. and they will place some type of induction medication on my cervix and then we wait for 12 hours. At 5 a.m. they will check my cervix again and see if I have started dialating. If I have they will start pitocin and hopefully things will get rolling. If not, we will sit through another 12 hours and check it again. So, we are praying for the first scenario to occur. So, McKenna could arrive anytime between Wednesday or Thursday of next week. I did ask Dr. Smith if she really felt like this could happen naturally, and she said she wouldn't call a c-section unless I wanted one or it was an emergency.
So please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. It might be a long labor and I am asking God to grant me the patience and energy to do the best I can. I am also asking also that He grant Mike the patience for putting up with me! =) We will let you all know when she gets here and post pictures as soon as possible. Thanks for hanging in here with us through the last 10 months!

39 long weeks

Well here I am at 39 weeks. McKenna is a big girl now, and my stomach feels like it can't get any bigger. McKenna is still moving a lot and it looks and feels really weird now. Many times her kicks and jabs hurt so bad! I have almost given up trying to sleep at night. Last night I had a hard time catching my breath and I felt like my heart was racing. I finally gave up and sat up in bed and I guess she moved away from my lungs. I still can't believe that our due date is next Tuesday, but I am also relieved. I am ready for her to make her debut into the world, and see what our little girl looks like. I will post more next week after our 40 week appointment. I am not seeing my doctor this week, because she isn't in the office. She is still in town, but working at the hospital most of the week. However, I don't see McKenna coming this week, so I didn't stress out over it. If everything works out, McKenna will be here by the end of next week...ready or not....

38 Weeks

Well Mike and I went back to the doctor yesterday, and I was so sure that I had started to dialate. In fact, when Dr. Smith walked in she was her happy, joking self, but after checking me I saw the seriousness wash over her face. I still haven't started dialating, and she thinks the scar tissue on my cervix is the reason. I knew going into this pregnancy that my cervix had scar tissue from my surgery in 2007, but I tried to keep a positive outlook on everything. Well, now that it is coming down to the end, my cervix isn't wanting to work with me. We talked about inducing now, but she said that it would only end in a c-section. It didn't take long for me to say no to that idea. So, here is what we came up with. I go back to her August 5th, and if I still haven't started dialating she will induce on either the 6th or the 7th. We aren't sure if she will try and induce, or just schedule a c-section. If my cervix is still completely closed, I have a feeling she might want to do a c-section. As much as I am wanting to have her normally, I don't want to go through hours and hours of labor just to find out my cervix isn't opening. So we have a lot to think about, but we still have 2 weeks to figure it out.

So, keep us in your prayers that things will work out like they should. We know that God knows McKenna's birthday, and He will bring her into this world when he sees fit. We will let you all know when something happens. Have a great weekend...Mike and I are celebrating our 1 year anniversary this Sunday. I can't believe a year ago I married my very best friend ever...I am such a lucky girl.....Love you to the moon and back Mike!

Oma's 60th Birthday

Well this past Saturday the 18th, we celebrated my mom's (Oma's) birthday. Deborah and I surprised her by driving into Elgin on Friday and shocking her as we walked into her party at work. I didn't have my doctor's permission to do this, but since there was no change at the last visit, I figured I would be okay. We spent 2 quick hours in Elgin and then drove back to Spring. It was a long and exhausting day for me, and I quickly realized why traveling this close to giving birth is crazy. I was so ready to get out of the car, and my poor toes were the size of watermelons.

On Saturday morning, my parents came to Spring and we spent the day at our house. My dad brought BBQ and all the fixins', and they brought us fajitas from Elgin for breakfast. It was a great day. Mike and I went swimming for a while and had some excitement. We were just lounging and Mike was pushing us from one side of the pool to the other. We did this several times, but then suddenly the side of the pool collapsed. I went down first backwards, which scared me to death. I didn't realize what had happened, and when I hit the ground I looked up to see Mike headed my way. He was able to stop himself from falling on me or my tummy, and he pulled the wall back up. I was dazed for several minutes. My mom and sister were out in the yard and ran over to check on us. Mike kinda started to laugh, but I started to cry. I didn't really hurt myself, I was just worried that the fall hurt McKenna. However, the water did help to soften our fall, and besides a few bruises and a scratch on my shoulder I was okay. Later that day I was able to laugh about the fall, but for a while I was very shaken up. I guess McKenna had her first wild water rapid...

I go back to the doctor on Wednesday, and I'm praying there is a change. I really want to have her naturally without inducing, but I will do whatever is best for her. I'll keep everyone posted. I wish now I had a picture of the pool incident to share, but believe me I'm sure it was a sight...have a great week.

37 Weeks....full term

Well we have made it full term! For so long we thought we might not make it to this day, but now McKenna seems very comfortable inside her momma. We went back to visit Dr. Smith today and she was excited that this day has come. However, after checking my cervix we found out that my cervix hasn't progressed any. This was a little upsetting for me, because I just knew that I was at least 1 centimeter, but not this week. I will admit when she was checking me I was in a lot of pain, she kept saying, "You might feel a little pressure..." Whatever! She said she was trying to get me started....wow, it was painful. So, she suggested walking as much as I can and spending some time with Mike...isn't that what got us in this situation to begin with???

We also spoke with her about how long she thinks we still might have. She feels McKenna will be here at about 39 weeks, but we will see. If she isn't here by 40 weeks, and my cervix still isn't progressing she will induce. She would start by trying to soften my cervix and see if it will open and then she would start pitocin. So, we have about 3 weeks to figure things out and see if McKenna will come on her own. Since I did have the surgery on my cervix back in 2007, the scar tissue is possibly the reason my cervix isn't wanting to work with us. However, Dr. Smith also feels that the scar tissue might be what kept my cervix closed, which didn't send me into preterm labor...so she said it might have been a good thing at that time.

Well I'll keep you all posted. We go back for our 38th week visit next Wednesday, so hopefully something will happen. Fingers crossed!

36 Weeks

Well today we are 36 weeks, and as you can see McKenna is a growing girl. I miss seeing my feet and being able to tie my shoes, but I can't wait to meet her. We went to the doctor yesterday and there were no changes in my cervix. Dr. Smith will check me again next week. I wasn't upset with the news, I just wish there was some kind of change. McKenna is facing down and I think her foot is in my ribs. It hurts pretty much 24 hours a day, unless I can get my fingers between her foot and my ribs. However, I don't think she likes that because she pushes back. I'm still walking between 1 to 2 miles per day for some exercise. My doctor was surprised to hear that, but after staying inside all day I have to get out. It isn't like I'm training for a marathon!
Good news, our pool pump should be in today, so I'll get to go swimming again. I have missed my little pond in the backyard. Also, we got a lot of rain this morning, which is great. I think the grass is already greener...
Have a great week...I'll update any changes as soon as I know something. We go back next Wednesday for our 37 week visit.

Daddy Mike

Macie and Callie going for a ride in McKenna's stroller.


Mike showing off his hard work...

Putting the stroller together.

Mike didn't like that I kept taking his picture.

He looks so happy that he is spending his day putting baby things together...but he did so well.

Mike was an awesome daddy and put together McKenna's stroller and swing for her. It took him half of the time it would have taken me. I know he is going to be a great daddy and McKenna is one lucky little girl. Thank you Mike, we love you!

Enough already...

I'm tired of being pregnant and feeling like my insides are no longer there. I even think McKenna is ready to come out. She really doesn't have much room left and every movement she makes hurts. I am just ready to see the little girl that has called my uterus home for the past 9 months. We had to reschedule our doctor's appointment to Monday at 4:00, but I doubt we will find out anything new. I was at the hospital on Wednesday with contractions, but they sent me home because my cervix was still closed. So I continue to have contractions which only makes my mood worse.

Besides being uncomfortable, apparently my nesting has set in more than ever. Mike and Deborah were making fun of me today, because I was ordering them around. I just wanted to get several things done today, and I needed their help. However, the carpets are now steamed cleaned and I feel much better. Tomorrow I'm going to work on the bathrooms and moping the tile. Right now I think I'm going to take a nap, and try to stop complaining for a few minutes. Have a safe and fun 4th of July.

Momma's new ride and our first pickles!

Well our cucumbers finally came through and now we have officially pickled our first batch! Yes they are upside down at the moment, because that is what the recipe said to do...they should be ready in 2 weeks and we have many more growing. Mike and I are excited to see how they will turn out. I'll let you know as soon as we bite into one.

This is the new ride I'm sportin'. I found this on Friday and had to jump on the deal. It is a used '09 Pathfinder (I've been waiting 5 years to get one) and the price and mileage was awesome. The only thing I had to have was leather and a sunroof, and a decent monthly payment and Nissan made it happen. I can't believe I'm paying the same that I was for my Altima, they must really need to sell cars. They even paid off my lease of my Altima! When I first showed it to Mike he wasn't crazy about the color, but I think it will grow on him. By the way it is Brick Red NOT Maroon! I would never drive a Maroon car, and my Texas Exes sticker will soon be on the back window! I was shocked actually that I liked the color, but it is different. So, now McKenna will be stylin' in a new car when she goes to Sandy's.

34 weeks

Well today we are 34 weeks! I went to the doctor and she officially took me off the contraction medicine. She said that this time if I start having contractions that she isn't going to stop them. I was surprised she didn't give me any other restrictions, but I am also happy about that. However, she did say I can't travel to Elgin this weekend, so I think our days are numbered to the house. I am swelling quite a bit especially in my hands. At night they really start to hurt and most of the time when I wake up they are both asleep. She says that is normal, and that the swelling will go away once McKenna comes. So now it is a waiting game. She can come whenever she wants to at this point. There are days that I really want her to come, but I know she should stay in a little longer. If she isn't here by 38 weeks, Dr. Smith said she will consider inducing me. Mike and I are going to talk more about that. If my cervix is ready I would be okay with it, but if it isn't I think we will wait. I don't want to be in labor for hours if she isn't ready to come. Dr. Smith did say that she wouldn't consider inducing unless my cervix was ready, which is a good thing. I have heard of doctors that induce to work around their schedule, but she isn't the type. Well I will keep you all posted. For now I'm trying to stay inside as much as possible since it is so hot. I am just thankful I can stay home and I'm not working right now...that would be too much. =)

Elgin Baby Shower

Make a Smilebox photobook

32 Weeks

Well I went back to the doctor on Monday for my 32 week check-up. Everything is going well, and my cervix is still sealed shut. Dr. Smith decided to keep me on my medicine until 34 weeks an than she will take me off of it. She says that McKenna can come any time after that. She did monitor me for about 40 minutes and then she came in and told me she was sending me to the hospital for observation. Apparently McKenna's heart rate dipped twice and she was worried. So she told me to go home, eat dinner and drink something cold to wake her up. I met Mike at home and he already had food ready. We got to the hospital and after a few minutes it was obvious that she was fine. My appointment was at 4:00 and I ate lunch at 12:30 with my aunt and uncle. I guess I should have eaten a snack before I went to the doctor, but I didn't think I would be there that long. They think that she was maybe hungry, which caused her to be sluggish. Anyway all is fine, and we were sent home with a clean bill of health. I never thought there was a problem with her anyway. So, things are good, and we are headed to Elgin this Saturday for my baby shower. Luckily my preterm labor test came back negative again, so Dr. Smith feels it is safe for me to travel. I have her cell number just in case! Anyway, I posted two pics. One of Mike and his girls and one of Mike and I on Sunday. I'll post a belly shot later...have a good day!

Yet another visit to the ER

Well I guess I was supposed to update this earlier today, because several friends from work were checking to see an update. This morning I got to work and I knew I wasn't feeling very well. However, we have so much going on at school that I felt if I just get there I would eventually feel better. Well I got there and started getting abdominal pains. I had a few last night, and went to bed early but they kept coming back. So I called my doctor's office and they suggested I go to the hospital and be observed. I left school and called Mike to tell him I was headed to the hospital. He met me at the house and we drove down there together.

Once we got there I was actually the only person in the ER...that never happens! I was quickly taken up to Labor and Delivery and hooked up to the monitors. At first my contractions were 7 minutes apart and then changed to 6 minutes. When the contractions got to about 4 1/2 minutes apart, the nurse called my doctor. She gave me a series of 3 shots to stop the contractions, and now I'm take a pill every 6 hours to keep the contractions from coming back. She did check my cervix twice and it is still hard and not dilated. Also, my test for preterm labor came back negative, so that is great news. So although I lost my mucous plug and had contractions, I feel fine. I am going to finish work next week, and sit as much as possible. Thank you for all of your concerns and prayers. I am determined to keep Miss McKenna baking for a few more weeks, so hopefully the contractions are gone.

30 Weeks

Well we went for our 30 week visit yesterday. When the nurse asked me if there were any concerns and I said, "I think I might have lost my mucus plug," she said, "I'll get the doctor." Sure enough most of it is gone, but after checking out my cervix it is still sealed shut. She did do a test that will tell her if I'm going into preterm labor. She mentioned that it is a little early to have this happen, but we aren't going to stress yet. However, we really need her to stay in there for at least 6 more weeks. I want her as well done as possible! I spoke to my nurse this morning and she said she would call if the test comes back positive. That pretty much means I won't be going to work next week, and I'll have a lot of restrictions. On the flip side, if she doesn't call that means I'm not going into preterm labor and I can finish up school. That is what we are praying for right now.

She did have me hooked to a monitor that records McKenna's heartbeat, kicks and any contractions I am having. Apparently during the 20 minutes I was on the monitor I had one contraction. My doctor didn't seem too worried about that. I think her main focus is getting the results from the test and seeing what we need to do to stop it. So, please keep us in your prayers. Although we are excited about seeing our baby girl, it isn't the right time yet. My goal is to have our girl and bring her home from the hospital. I'll post pictures later and I'll keep you updated. Right now I'm just praying I don't hear from my doctor!

First blanket I knitted for my girl

Well I finally finished knitting McKenna's baby blanket. I started it before we knew she was a girl, so it is green and yellow. It is hard to see, but there is a cute pattern that goes through the entire blanket. It was supposed to be larger, but I figure I'll make her one later on as she grows up. I am proud that I finished it and I hope she likes it. I plan to take it to the hospital so she can have her own blanket. Right now Mike is covering his arms with it, because he is so proud that it is complete. Now I need to finish my Christmas skirt, Mike's stocking and McKenna's stocking...it is going to be a long summer!

8 more days!

Oh my goodness, only 8 more days of work, but 8 more days of work! For those that don't teach you might find it hard to understand that statement, however there is a reason we have summer vacation. The teachers need a break! It is that time of year where we are slowly closing down shop, and the students are acting crazy. Thank goodness for the 3-day weekend. The slideshow I made was my first, and apparently since I only added 11 pictures, it keeps going through 20. I'll do better next time. For all the teachers out there, hang in there...there is a light at the end of this tunnel....

Kaufman Baby Shower

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Here is a slideshow from the Kaufman Baby Shower. We got so much stuff, and Mike and I are so grateful. McKenna is going to have enough clothes, stuffed animals, and blankets to last her a while. Thanks to everyone who hosted and came to honor us. I do appreciate all of you!

29 weeks!

Well we made it another week. It is getting a little harder each day, because by lunch my feet hurt so bad. However, we have 11 days of school left, so I know I can make it. It is hard to believe that in 77ish days Miss McKenna will be here. Mike and I are still shocked by how time is flying by. It seems like yesterday we just got the news.

This past weekend was Relay for Life and Mike and I made it until 3:15 a.m. I wasn't planning on staying that long, but I felt bad since I was one of the team captains. I didn't get that great of sleep that morning, but Saturday night I went to bed at 7:20 and woke up at 9:20 Sunday morning. Fourteen hours later and still I needed a nap later that day. I guess I was more tired than I thought. Now I'm looking forward to the 3-day weekend. Also, this Thursday my 4th grade team is throwing me a shower at work. I'm very excited! My mom and sister are coming down for it and will be staying until Saturday.

McKenna has become even more active lately. She moves around constantly and it has started to hurt at times. The other day I swore she had her leg stretched out, because I couldn't bend over at all without being in pain. I think her foot was in my rib cage. However, I know she is cramped and might need to stretch out. I think she recognizes our voices more also. When I talk to her, especially when I'm teaching she moves, and when she hears Mike's voice she jumps. I go back to the doctor next Tuesday for my 30 week visit, but I don't know when she will schedule my last ultrasound. Hopefully soon! Well not a lot has happened this week, but I wanted to keep everyone updated. I'll post some pictures from my shower after this week. Take care!

28 Weeks!

Well today we went for our 28 week visit. Dr. Smith said that everything looks good, and I'll be visiting her every 2 weeks now. I've gained another 2 pounds, so I should be around 15 pounds now. I don't look much different from 24 weeks, except it looks like my tummy has filled out at the bottom some. Mike and I were sad because we didn't get to do an ultrasound. I think Dr. Smith spoiled us at the beginning and now we get upset when we don't get to see her. I know I will have one more ultrasound in the next few weeks, but it isn't as good as the 4D at the doctor's office. I guess we might just have to wait and see her. Anyway, I said I would post and update and I did...have a great rest of the week...

Mother's Day

Well this weekend I celebrated my first Mother's Day. My parents and sister came to Spring on Saturday morning and left today. We had a very relaxing weekend, and my mom took me shopping. She bought me a pair of shorts and a cross picture frame for McKenna's room. She also bought McKenna two new dresses. This morning Mike and I woke up and cooked breakfast for my mom, and then they all headed back home. After a two hour nap, Mike and I went swimming and I got some more sun on my arms. It feels so good to lay in the sun. We decided that was our Mother/Father's Day gifts to each other this year. It was well worth it. Well I have my 28 week visit tomorrow with Dr. Smith, so I'll have to update more tomorrow. My sister took the pictures above outside by the flower bed we finished up last weekend. It looks much better than it did. Happy Mother's Day to all the mommies out there!

Pool pictures

Our beautiful backyard! I love all of the flowers and plants!
Macie and I relaxing in the sunshine. She loves the water!

Well I hope you like the pictures. We spent the afternoon in the pool again, and I got some sun. I love it! McKenna likes it when I put my tummy in the cold water. I think she is trying to swim away from the cold! Poor little girl!

Updates...

Well I have a few updates, but you will have to wait until tomorrow to see pictures. First off, we got in McKenna's dresser combo Friday. It fit perfectly where I imagined it going, so now we just need to have a baby to fill the room. I already washed some of her clothes, burp towels and bibs and put them in the drawer. I also took a box of wipes and diapers and placed them on one side also. I guess my nesting has kind of hit.

More exciting news, Mike and I decided to get an above ground pool. It is 4 feet deep and 14 feet wide. It isn't an underground pool, but believe me it felt great sitting in it this afternoon. We were working in the backyard on the flower beds and it was pretty hot. Don't worry, I took plenty of breaks and drank plenty of water. Plus, Macie, Callie and I tried to kill a little snake. It kept poking its head out of the bricks and I was trying to get the dogs to kill it. We found one last weekend in the front yard, so Mike thinks there is a nest somewhere. I just think we have grass snakes, but I don't care for them to be in my yard. I almost forgot, Macie loves the pool. She stands on a boogie board and floats around. However, she got brave and started jumping off and going underwater. Her eyes would bug out until she reached the top again. She is a pretty good swimmer. Callie on the other hand is a princess and tries to keep her feet out of the water. She would rather sit and watch, than participate in water games. We had to buy some puppy fences to put around the pool to keep Macie out. We were afraid she would scratch on the pool and pop a hole in it. Knowing her she will try to climb the ladder soon. I'll post some pictures of the furniture and pool soon.

The Crib is here!

Well Mike went by Babies R' Us today after work and picked up McKenna's crib. We haven't put it together, but I can tell already we aren't going to have enough room in the nursery for all the furniture. We only bought the crib and a combo dresser/changing pad, because Mike already had a large dresser and nightstand. Well our spare bedrooms aren't large enough for all that furniture, so we are going to need to rearrange some things. We thought about changing the nursery to the other spare bedroom, but ever since I walked into our house I have imagined the smaller room being a nursery. The second spare bedroom has a 10 foot ceiling, and we would have to repaint it. Not something I really want to take on right now. Anyway, I think we are going to move the large dresser and nightstand into the second spare bedroom, and just have the crib and combo dresser in the nursery. I'm not the type of person who likes ton of furniture stuffed into a room, so I think it will be fine. Plus, I don't think McKenna will someday look around and ask, "Where is all the furniture?" Also, the next time my parents come down they are bringing my toy box from our childhood. I plan to have that in the room also. It used to be puke green, but my mom varnished it a few years ago, and it will look great in her room. Plus, I like having items in our house from our childhood or family. So as soon as we get the bed together and the combo dresser comes in I'll add some pictures. Right now the room is just a mess....I guess my nesting hasn't started yet....

Ultrasound at 25 weeks

Well we made it back from the ultrasound, and we found out that my placenta has moved up! Good news! We also saw McKenna and she is face down and 1 pound and 12 oz. Wow, she sure is growing! She was sucking her thumb again and had one leg up by her face. It was really hard to get a clear picture of her face, but we saw her eyes and her sweet little nose and mouth. She was very alert and moving like crazy. I do have a good picture of her foot and there is another one of her girly parts. The only reason I'm going to post it is because you can see her little back side. So cute! So we had a good visit and hopefully we will hear from the doctor soon. So enjoy the pictures and thanks for keeping us in your thoughts.

Ultrasound

Well today at 6:00 Mike and I get to see our little girl again. I have an appointment at the hospital to get another ultrasound to check my placenta. Fingers crossed things are looking better! However, as long as McKenna is okay then I can't ask for anything more. Yesterday Mike and I went to Babies R' Us and bought her nursery furniture. It is really nice, and we should have it in soon. We saved over $300 dollars, because I clip coupons! =) Plus we picked up some extra diapers and wipes. It is hard to believe that in a little over 100 days she will be here. That doesn't seem like long at all. I am just ready to get this school year over with so I can rest some. Plus, I want to work on getting the house and her nursery set up. Well keep me in your prayers today. I don't know if I'll have any news about my placenta this evening, but I will have some new pictures. We just love the days we get to see her!

Rain, rain, go away!

Well after months of hard work and preparations, the Relay for Life was cancelled. We had a crazy storm blow through this afternoon, and I had a feeling it was going to be called off. However, Jill and I were hopeful that the skies would part and the sun would dry up all the rain. Wishful thinking! So, instead a couple of us decided to go eat at Lupe Tortillas. It was good, except I kept looking outside to the beautiful, rainless sky. On the way home it did start clouding up again, so I guess it was all for the best. Maybe next year we will have a beautiful night to walk. Thanks to all of you who sent in donations for the relay. Your money will still be put to good use. I guess I'm sleeping late tomorrow, and right now that doesn't sound so bad....

24 Weeks

Well here it is! A 24 week belly. I don't know how much longer I'll do the naked belly shots, but for now I still feel okay with sharing with all. We went to the doctor today and McKenna's heartbeat was 140 bpm. We didn't get to see her on the ultrasound, but we are scheduling an ultrasound at the hospital next week. So I won't find out about my placenta until after the ultrasound. I'll have to post some of the new pictures of McKenna as soon as I get some!

My friends Erin and Sarah came to visit me when I was visiting my family. We all met at UT and graduated from the College of Communication. There is only one of us missing and that is Annette. She lives in Corpus and sadly we haven't seen her since we graduated. Erin (in the middle) has a little girl named JoJo and lives near Dallas. Sarah (on the right) has a little girl named Avery and a baby on the way. She is due about 3 weeks before I am. And no we didn't all plan to wear white shirts that day.

Here is a picture of all the girls. Sarah and Erin used to come to Elgin with me and my dad would BBQ for us. It was our college road trips all the way from Austin. My mom is holding Avery, Sarah's daughter, and my sister Deborah is to the left of my mom. Both of my dogs are in the picture too! It was a great day!