Hospital Life

Alright, for those of you who don't know, after I got home with the baby I was having weird issues with my blood pressure. Long story short, I ended back up in the hospital...twice. I have post partumn pre-eclampsia that needs to get under control. Apparently, I have no control over it myself.
You'd think that would be enough...but...my two older ones are sick with the stomach flu, and now Stephen has it as well. I totally hate hospitals, and he's been staying with me every night. Now, he can't. Thankfully, I am blessed with great friends (Lindsey and Cindy) who came and sat with me while Stephen ran errands...AND now, that Stephen is sick, Linds. will spend the night (YES, Christmas night) with me in the hospital. How cool is that?! THANK YOU LINDSEY!!!!
The wing I'm on is so quiet. I am the only patient, as well that is down here (there are other wings that have other people on it). That makes it kind of depressing.
I missed Christmas with my family, and that was pretty horrid...I'm not allowed to walk around by myself because of the medication that I'm on....TV is limited...and there isn't many staff members around because of the holiday....SO...it pretty much sucks....
Please pray for me...I know that I ask for that a lot...but please...I am asking...again....here is what I am asking for prayer for....
1) Healing...healing....healing....
2) That Stephen and the kids would get better...and protection over Colton that he wouldn't get sick, too....
3) Peace that I can rest...(I'm still a bit nervous about falling asleep, etc....being on my own...)

What We've Been Waiting For!

Announcing the Arrival of :

Samuel Colton Bock

Born 12/19/08

7 lbs. 7 ozs. 19 3/4''

Samuel "God hears and is faithful"

Colton "Bringing light to the dark town"

After everything that this pregnancy has brought us, we are praising God for the healthy arrival of our new little boy!

Here is a story of the journey!

We arrived at the hospital on Friday morning (9:00am). I was scheduled for a ECV (external version to turn a breech baby) with a possible C-section. Because the possibility of an emergency C-section I was placed on that floor close to the ER. I received an operating room dose of an epidural (where my blood pressure dipped up and down with waves of nausea...totally gross btw...). When I was totally numb, the doctor came in and gave me a dose of another med. that would relax my uterus (and make my heart race...bringing on more nausea...yuck). The ultrasound was used to locate the head and rear of the baby, and he began turning the baby by maneuvering him from the outside. He'd stop every few moments to check the baby's heart rate and tolerance. After a few minutes, the baby turned head down and stayed there with a very strong heart rate! PRAISE GOD! The staff was actually surprised, as apparently these maneuvers aren't usually successful. God hears and is faithful!

After that, we were moved to labor and delivery. My epidural wore off, and I received med. to induce labor. That all began at 2:oo in the afternoon. Seven hours later, I was ready to bring this baby into the world. The doctor was called, and the baby came shortly after his arrival (2 pushes for those who care...).

When I heard his cries I was crying. I concentrated on the pediatric nurse working on him, trying to read her expression. I wanted someone to tell me that he was totally fine and "normal". Finally, Stephen walked over to let me know that all was great. I broke down into tears that I have been holding onto for six months. God hears and is faithful!

Needless to say, we are praising God for our miracle, and we thank all of those who have traveled this journey with us. We obviously named him accordingly (plus, his initials are the same as Stephen's). We will be calling him Colton, and we are praising God for him every moment!

My Wise Man

My oldest had his first speaking part in a play yesterday. I was so proud, touched, and emotional (probably preggo hormones)! He played one of the wise men in the Christmas Story of Jesus at school, and this video is just a clip of it all. If you don't know, he's the one closest to the audience.

Baby Poll

Alrighty, lets have some fun with this baby thing! I'm taking a poll...leave a comment with your guess on the following:

Gender of Baby Bock:

Birth Time/Date of Baby Bock:

Weight of Baby Bock:

Length of Baby Bock:

Means of Delivery (C-section or "naturally"):

Maybe the winner will be rewarded with a gift card (?)....Lets see how ya'll do!

Baby, Get Ready!

Well, we now have a plan! Friday, December 19, 2008, we'll will check into the hospital for the doctor to try the ECV (turning the baby). Prayerfully, he'll be successful, and I will be induced at that point. If not, the c-section that I've been trying to avoid will come into play! One way or another, Baby Bock will make his/her debut. Then everyone gets to find out whether or not we've been carrying around a baby girl or boy.....stay tuned!

Worth Celebrating

Thank you for all of your prayers lately!

Plus, thank you God for blessing us so quickly!

Today, December 13, 2008....

Our little a/c was resurrected from the depths!

(Did you think that I had a baby?)

Three leaks were located, sealed, and had caps replaced to

prevent future problems!

It has been said that this week may reach the 80's here,

and now I can endure it without completely melting!

It doesn't take much to make a pregnant

lady happy, does it?

By the way, I am 37 weeks and 3 days!

Monday I will be right back at the doctor's office,

and I will be blogging with further updates soon!

Now, lets cheer on baby Bock to

TURN BABY TURN!!!

Healing need....

No, I am not joking. For three months, our a/c unit has been slowly fizzling out. Living in Florida the weather is just simply unpredictable. One day it is sixty degrees, and the next day it can reach eighty! I am naturally hot natured, and I love the cold. Being hot and sticky puts me in a horrid mood and demeanor!

A new baby is coming in a week or so; illness is running ramped in our home (one person or the other has been sick under this roof for the last four weeks); now the a/c has a leak somewhere. That means it could be a simple fix (costing less) or an ordeal that could last days (and costing a bundle). We will find that out (hopefully) tomorrow. If our family friend can't help us, we'll have to let go of our purse strings a little and bring in a professional. Merry Christmas!

So, as trivial as this all sounds, I'm asking for prayer, please! We'd like to get this all over with by next Friday (when I may go in the hospital). Also, it would be really difficult to spend a lot, right now...so we're praying that God "heals" (for lack of a better word) our a/c issue with incredible ease (problems are easy to find, fix, and prevent) and cheaply! Plus, you can throw in a prayer for our family to finally get 100% before we bring a new little one home....thank you friends and family for your support, help, and healing!

Good News or Bad News?

Do you want the good news or the bad news first?

Bad news: Baby Bock has not yet turned into the correct position for delivery at almost 37 weeks gestation.

Good news: I don't have a c-section scheduled, yet. Plus, there is no sign of a physical problem with the baby causing him/her not to turn.

Here is our game plan. Monday (Dec. 15) I will pay another visit to the doctor to see if my body is making any process towards delivery. If so, I will be scheduled to check into the hospital to try to move the baby. If the doctor is successful, I will be induced that day. If there isn't any change, I will have a c-section (scheduled or otherwise).

December is HERE!

Yeah, December is here! My favorite time of year! I love the lights, smells, sounds, and feel of this month! This weekend we'll kick it off by going to a town parade, visit Santa Claus, and bake some yummy cookies!

I finished my shopping in early November; but this year, the best present will be, adding a new baby to our family! What a precious gift! Not to mention, the wonderful family and friends we are blessed with throughout the year!

Don't forget, we'll be going to see the specialist Dec. 8th to find out if this little one has settled into the correct position. If not, we could be celebrating his/her birthday by Dec. 12 !

I've been keeping a secret....

I must confess a secret. There hasn't been many moments since June that I've been confident in this pregnancy. Ever since getting news that there could be a problem, I've held my breath. Every time a test comes and goes a part of me won't let go of the worry.

Now another hurdle? I know that it isn't super uncommon for a baby to be breech, but there are studies that show there could be potential neurological problems associated with breech babies; that worries me. Could this be why my initial tests came back problematic? (A question that is nagging at me.)

I didn't realize how I've suppressed my worry since our last tests came back favorable, but apparently, they're still hiding within. Maybe that is why I have been trying everything so aggressively to make this baby turn, but with every day that passes...it gets harder. I just need to know that this baby is OK, and the only way to do that is to have him/her here.

I am praying in these last weeks that God restores His peace within me, and that our baby will be born (with out surgery) healthy, healthy, healthy.... if you can join me, please do!

Sunny Side Up

Well, we went to the doctor yesterday for a routine ultrasound and found out that our baby is now breech. This baby had been head down from the very beginning. Imagine our surprise (and disappointment) when we saw the head near my rib cage. Now I wait. In two weeks, we go back to the specialist to see what baby Bock decided to do. We are praying for a flip (just one) by 36 weeks. I do not want to have surgery and the recovery that goes along with it right at Christmas time. So join me once again, please, prayer people....!

My Little One

Okay, I know that I have been pretty hard on my little girl lately. She HAS gotten into mischief, though. However, I realized that she'd been under the weather, lately. For some reason, that multiplies mischief about ten times. It also causes her voice to be extra whiny and pulling that limp spaghetti limb tactic that all children inherently know. Yes, it weighs on my patience, tends to annoy me, and proves to be too much for my short temper, at times; yet, I am grateful that when the fever breaks and the sneezes subside, my little angle emerges once again reminding me of the little blessing in front of me that will too soon outgrow this nest.
Even still, there will be moments where I will be frustrated, again...with both/all of my children, and I will vent on any listening ear (or screen) that presents itself. That helps me feel better about my place on this planet and validated. I also find relief in quotes such as these:

"The quickest way for a parent to get a child's attention is to sit down and look comfortable." ~ Lane Olinhouse

"The reason grandchildren and grandparents get along so well is because they have a common enemy." ~ Author Unknown

"If evolution really works, how come mothers only have two hands?" ~ Milton Berle

"Children are a great comfort in your old age -- and they help you reach it faster, too." - Lionel Kauffman

"I take my children everywhere, but they always find their way back home." - Robert Orben

"Having kids is like being pecked to death by a chicken." - seen in Mr. Dora craft shops

Encouragement....

Meredith Andrews: You're Not Alone....

I search for love, when the night came,
And it closed in, I was alone,
But you found me, where I was hiding,
And now I'll never ever be the same,
It was the sweetest voice,
That called my name saying

You're not alone, For I am here,
Let me wipe away your every fear,
My love I've never left your side,
I have seen you through the darkest night,
And I'm the one who's loved you all your life,
All of your life

You cry your self to sleep, cause the hurt is real,
And the pain cuts deep, all hope seems lost,
With heartache your closest friend,
And everyone else long gone,
You've had to face the music on your own,
But there is a sweeter song that calls you home saying

You're not alone, For I am here,
Let me wipe away your every tear,
My love I've never left your side,
I have seen you through the darkest night,
And I'm the one who's loved you all your life,
All your life

Faithful and true, Forever,
Oh my love will carry you

You're not alone, For I, I am here,
Let me wipe away your every fear
Oh yeah, My love I've never left your side,
I have seen you through the darkest night,
Your darkest night,
And I'm the one who's loved you all your life,
All of your life

God uses music to speak to me, a lot. Maybe this can encourage you if you need it....

Against the rules.....

I am not going vent my political views on you, but I am going to share how cute my five year old is. When he woke up this morning, he wanted to know who won the election. I told him that Obama won, and then I tried to explain that he had a vice-president that goes along with him as a "helper" in Washington.

The conversation went something like this:

son - "Well, what is his helper's name?"

me - "Joe Biden..."

son - "Joy Bi-yun"

me - "No, J O E...BI-Den".... this went on for a moment....

me - "Ok, think of Joe from Blue's Clues...as in 'Hey Joe'...and now think of him bittin'....Joe Biden"....

son (with perplexed look)- "Joe wouldn't bite anyone; it is against the rules."

Yes, well now every time I ask him who is Obama's helper, he remembers!

Will it always be like this?

Sugar and spice...everything nice? YA RIGHT!
This is how my day started. I know that two year olds are going to challenge you in every way, but this is taking it to a whole other level. I have never in my life been SO livid (especially when I scrubbed the wall and began to take the paint off but not the marker...).
This little cherub climbed a dresser to get markers that were put out of reach (arms length anyway), and she proceeded to draw ALL over herself and the wall (I KNEW it was too quiet)...
Even though she knew that this was the wrong thing to do, sinful nature took over...and she went to town with crayola....I've heard that I'll look back on these times and laugh....

She'll grow out of this, right? RIGHT?

Whoa...

Ok, last night I had a crazy dream that I went into labor. It felt so real, and I woke up sore this morning. I think that my sub-conscious was tapped into labor and everything that it brings because of conversation at dinner last night. It's crazy how the mind works, isn't it?

Only in FL

Today I sat outside under a beach umbrella, and I watched my kids play in the pool. Yup, it is like 80 right now with a cool breeze. Then it occurred to me that it is the first day of November. After a small chuckle to myself, I gathered the kids to go inside for lunch and noticed, as I stripped off their bathing suits for the laundry, their new tan lines....only in FL....

The Sex of the Baby IS....

Take the poll and tell me what you think it is....

Selfish...

I was talking about this earlier...I was BLOG inspired...

Why parents can't be selfish:

1) YOUR sleep schedule becomes THEIR sleep schedule from the beginning

2) Changing diapers must be done correctly and thoroughly...enough said

3) Kids grow out of clothes faster than you will (hopefully)...that means no new duds for a while

4) After the child learns to eat solids and walk you will NEVER have a snack or drink to yourself, again...

5) There are no breaks, free time, days off, sicks days, and you are always "on call"

6) You find yourself putting your Christmas wish list aside to fulfill theirs...

7) Most of the time, the meals that you fix aren't your favorite, but you know your kids will eat it

8) If #7 isn't applied the meal you prepared can go completely untouched and snubbed

9) Kids aren't clean beings...you are constantly picking up someone else's mess

10) READERS fill THIS one IN with YOUR thoughts....

Fall is Fun

It is that time of year when the pumpkins are out, and people are beginning to make their Thanksgiving plans. That is followed by Christmas shopping and singing carols 24/7 at my house.
I love this time of year. Unfortunately, this would be the time of year I'd head north for a week and soak in cool weather, apple butter, and mountain views. Instead, I am watching the news for weather reports (it will be 65 tomorrow, yeah!), turning my thermostat down, and searching for leaves that turn another color other than brown. Here are some of my favorite things about this season (not in order...) :

1) Apple Cider - the smell, taste and warmth of it

2) Making my Thanksgiving Menu

3) Pulling out my nice china to eat on

4) Carving a pumpkin and smooshing the insides

5) Pulling out sweatshirts and light sweaters

6) Dressing up the kids in their costumes

7) Sneaking some of the kids good candy (shhhh...don't tell)

8) Finding holiday tunes way too early and blaring them whenever I want

9) Lighting candles that smell like the holidays

10) Finishing my Christmas shopping earlier than anyone I know and hiding them in the house

Ego Blow....

Did you ever think that you were meant to do great things in life? Maybe change people lives, make a mark on this earth, or help bring change to something? Yes, I use to feel this way too. Then I became a stay at home mom. Now I am bringing change to diapers, folding laundry, making dinners, washing dishes, juggling bills, keeping people healthy, and everything else that people take for granted growing up (again, another reminder to call your mother and thank her).
There is no greater thankless job on this planet, but yet, the most rewarding; plus, people still volunteer and desire to do this over and over for years and years. There must be something to it.
Yet tonight when sitting on the couch with my husband my ego was lowered just a bit more. It went something like this:
Kelli: "We have to keep you healthy because I want to keep you around for a very long time. I can't make it without you here."
Stephen: "Yes, and the same for you. I mean, I could survive without you, but I don't want to."

Ouch....like the market, my stock (and ego) just plummeted....

Throw me a Bone here.....

Today I have been feeling more stressed out than usual. I don't know if it is me just being pregnant that heightens my irritability, or if my emotions are justified in accordance to things going on around me....Here 's what has been going on:
1) Sleeping has been limited...One child goes to bed later than the other, but other child gets up earlier only to wake the sleeping child (and mother)
2) I have been going to the doctor every other week now for a while, and it is taking a toll on my patience....I'm just sick and tired of it....
3) My wonderful husband was in an accident yesterday....that may not sound like a big deal, but being a driver for a living...you never know what these little mishaps can bring up...it makes me stressed over his job security during a hard economic time with a baby on the way
4) My daughter now communicates by screaming rather than using words to express happiness, anger, or disgust
5) Potty training is a good thing...HOWEVER...a two year old running to the potty 5 times within 10 minutes (not even joking) wears on a person's patience when it is EVERY DAY.....
6) Just went to the mail...our A.R.M. is going up due to the sinking economy....so our payments will increase 90 dollars....ok, now I'm feeling crapped on....
7) Did I mention that I am 29 weeks prego?

Alright, so now I am just exhausted from listing these things and that is merely a glimpse of my reality.....

I'm Listening, now what

Is God trying to tell me something?

1) Last night I dreamt that my family was moving to "Dale, NC" (I actually don't know if this town exists, but I will google it later. Just don't ask why my brain picked that name...I don't get it, either)

2) My neighbor's house that had been for sale forever finally sold and a new family moved in

3) 3 People have asked me lately about our potential of moving without prompting from me

Don't get me wrong, I've been wanting to move (on and off) for a little while now. However, the economy is horrible (selling a home, job transfers, yada yada yada) and there is NO way that we could handle TWO house payments, family, and a new baby all at once, financially.

Any ideas out there of how to fulfill this desire (coherent or not) but not break the bank right now?

It's Potty Time

Yes, it is that time for my two year old. Let me start off by saying to those reading...stop and call or just plain appreciate what your mother went through with you when you were a little toddler! It's true; potty training is as bad as it sounds. Here are a few thoughts on the subject....

1) Gag reflex is real

2) Underwear IS optional but only if you are a fast runner

3) I must really love my children to go through this

4) This is one of my last hurdles of toddler hood

5) If I give up, I'll have to start at the beginning again the next time

6) It DOES get better...This too shall pass....(too much of a pun?)

Approach With Caution....

Today while I was out by myself with my children, my two year old had a breakdown. Because she was disobedient, I put her back in the stroller while the meltdown continued. Imagine this sweet little angle screaming, thrashing about with a red face and an arched back like a mad cat. Yes, what a lovely picture this paints.
This wasn't the first time (terrible two's are in full force), and I know that restraining her (in her stroller/car seat away from home or in her room alone at home) is the best/safest way to let her cry it out, regain control, and calm down. After the storm passes, I am able to talk to her on her level.
HOWEVER, not all parents act in the same manor. I will not say that my way is the only way, but I know what works best for my children. So, other mothers are apparently appalled that I am not picking her up (which is not physically safe for her or me when she has no self control....plus, I feel it rewards her bad behavior with attention due to negative behavior) and soothing her.
So much so, that another parent decided to come up to me (mid tantrum) and ask if she could please hold my daughter because she just wanted to get out of her stroller and be comforted. With one eyebrow raised, I politely (maybe a bit sarcastically) declined; then, another lady came up and took it upon herself to try to "distract" my screaming child with comments on her appearance, REALLY? I stood there with a smug grin as my child screamed in her face. Internally, I was boiling...
I would NEVER have the audacity to walk up to a parent/stranger and try to help them co-parent their child. Unless the child is being physically man-handled or abused in some way...let the parent, parent....Have sympathy for the adult, not the kid....hello?
Maybe this is the reason why so many of "kids today" run a muck and can't behave. Maybe their parents decided to give in and coddle them instead of sticking to their punishment? Perhaps not because of their children, but from the disgust from peers around them?....just a thought....I know that I am a good ten years younger sometimes than other parents around me, but that doesn't mean that I don't know what I'm doing. Worry about your own children running around that you can't control and leave me and mine alone.....approach with caution....I may be the one who needs restraint...

Terrible....Just Terrible

We've officially crossed over into the terrible two stage. How does this little girl with such an angel face turn on a dime and throw such a fit and reach scream octaves that only dogs can hear? What a challenge to deal with a small person screaming in your face for no logical reason. The beast lies beneath, and you don't know when or what will make it surface. For now, I send her to her room, close the door, and I wait until the quiet resumes. If people didn't think that I had self control before this little girl came along...spend a day in my shoes and see how hard it is to not lose it during these times. I know that this one day will pass...be consistent...and NEVER GIVE IN!

Lookin' Good

It is a tradition where my husband comes from for a family to dress from the same material during a wedding. So, in honor of Cwidi and Keri getting married, Barb and Denny had these made for the family, and we wore them for the rehersal dinner. Vive L'Afrique!

From the Mouth of Babes

On the ride home from school today my five year old was sitting in the back seat looking out the window. Sprinkles of rain hit our windshield and then it began to rain harder. While driving I heard a little voice from the backseat....

"Mommy, I think that I know why it is raining. Maybe there are baby clouds, and they are jumping up and down on their Mommy and Daddy clouds. That's why its raining their water is coming out."

I responded with, "That sounds pretty good..."

Later on in the day, I had gotten something back from the tailor. I tried it on, and came out to model it for the family. My five year old smiled from ear to ear and said,

"Oh Mommy, you look very distinguish....Daddy you should tell her the same thing."

My sweet little man....his little voice and ideas always bring smiles to my face...

sigh....

So much blog...so little comments....=(

Things I know about me

Things that I know for sure about myself. The Good, Bad, and just plain Ugly.

1) I am an organized person in thought and execution, but not housework

2) Thinking a lot and trying to organize makes me tired

3) Un-organization apparently annoys me because I don't understand it

4) I love when school is in session; it gives me more of a purpose and activity

5) People who can't drive in the rain aggravate me in a way that is surely unhealthy

6) I must unload my thoughts good/bad on whoever will listen and nod

7) I lack tolerance and patience more than I thought

8) I'm super stubborn regardless if it is logical to others or not

9) I try to make things work when its needed

10) I cherish my friends and time spent with them

11) Time has no bounds or effect on my friendships, either. I pick up where we left off, usually.

12) I care more than I think that I do about things....apparently, when I believe in or about something I am passionate about it

13) I need people to agree with me...even if they don't...just don't let me know about it

14) When my mind is on something...it will be done right away or I can't function

(Stephen added that one)

15) I just can't keep my opinion to myself if it starts to slip out....its like a leak in the dam...it can start off small, but turn into a massive wave and flood

16) I am a realist....not by nature but by life...

17) My family is important to me...and I want to be important to them

18) I am more sensitive than I thought or want to own up to

19) I think about the legacy I'll leave behind one day....and I hope that the stories told about me after I'm gone won't entail the negative things on this list

Go Away.....

The pitter patter of rain drops on my roof keep putting me in a sleepy mood. My foggy windows and cool house leaves me groggy. Fay has brought many things, but it definitely is a cure for my insomnia, lately. However, it keeps me tired throughout the entire day. I want to snuggle up under warm covers in my bed and cat nap all day long. Yet, with everyday life buzzing around me it isn't possible. Instead, I yawn. I yawn all day long, and I cause other people to catch it, too. So, take a moment with me to have a nice stretch, a good yawn, and an image of curling up in a nice cozy bed. OK, moment over....get back to reality...go go go!

I'm Not Lying!

Every time that I go to the doctor, I feel as though I am trying to pass an impossible test. Whether it be my blood pressure, weight, or blood work of some kind I sense an underlying expectancy that I must adhere to. Talk about pressure.

Obviously, today I went to my doctor. My blood pressure was 130/80. I was actually quite proud of that, seeing that it was 144/94 at one point. However, when in the exam room my doctor questions me about high blood pressure symptoms at home. People, I have said that my pressure goes up at the doctor's office. I have told him about it. Yet, every single time it is as though he thinks that I am lying to his face, or something. Actually, my reading at home is usually 117/74! I am NOT lying?

What would I benefit from lying to my health care professional? I know that consequences of hypertension, preeclampsia, and toxemia. I am a medical junkie! I also know unhealthy cheating ways to get my pressure down, but I don't wish to sink that low and possible harm my baby.

Already, he has hinted at the fact I'll be put on bed rest at the end of this pregnancy. Plus, they will monitor the baby every four weeks by ultra sound. Did I mention that I am only 20 weeks, and I have to see my doctor every 2 weeks....both of them (specialist and OBGYN)....yes, that's right and I don't have anything medically wrong with me, as of yet.

Now ask me why I hate going to doctors, getting tested for anything, and having any symptoms of illness. One more thing, my sister is expecting in a different part of the country. She has had more weight gain, higher pressure than mine at times, sugar in her samples, and is 7 1/2 years older than me....never once has her doctor made a big deal about any of these things... rest assured, if I had even one of these issues I'd probably be typing this blog from a bed at Winnie Palmer Hospital.

Why is this so hard...

Yesterday, we took the kids to the doctor for their "well visits." Everything went well and we were told that Iveigh had to get one shot, but Hunter needed four. The Dr. asked me if I wanted to do Hunter's in two's....two that day and two another day. I declined, thinking that it would be hard to come back in. They both were brave, and tears were few.

I never gave this a second thought until we were out today. Hunter had soccer tryouts, and we had to walk a distance from a gym to the car afterwards. We cooled off in the car, and I began the drive home. Looking in the review mirror, I saw Hunter looking quite sickly. He said that he was hot, and he had a headache "because of the sun."

I hate when he gets headaches; it bugs me, and it makes me so uneasy/anxious internally (Yes, I am a bit obsessive compulsive...plus I've had two friends with brain tumors within the last year...and that doesn't help things...). We stopped to get a drink, but he didn't feel better. At home, he told me that he was fine, but I could tell that something wasn't right. He didn't want to tell me that he had a headache, but I knew.

I debated calling the doctor, on a Saturday, and risk being the over reacting parent, but decided to hold off. Hunter felt hot to me, and I took his temperature, 101.7....Alright, now I am calling the doctor.

Right away, I spoke with him. He let me know that he was probably having a reaction the vaccinations. He wasn't concerned about the headache, either. I let him know that he's had them before, and I didn't know when to be concerned about that. The doctor said that as long as he wasn't vomiting with them, not to worry about them. That made me feel better.

After being reassured that he'd survive and wasn't suffering from horrible disease, I gathered my mom wits about me. I put him in a cool bath ( to bring down the high fever) and gave him Tylenol.

Right now, he is napping....he fever and headache are gone....Thank you God....but this is just a taste of motherhood. Iveigh can't vocalize if she's feeling bad, and the new baby can't either. I don't know what's worse, not knowing what is wrong or knowing and having my imagination run wild. It shows me how powerless I really am to fix problems that they may have. I have to put my trust in God and rely on His power and wisdom, for they belong to Him any way. Oh, that's hard.....Today I'm saying a prayer for those families who are dealing with sick children...those who know that Tylenol can't take away their child's pain or illness. And, thank you Lord, that I have been so blessed with the littlest ones in my life.....

What I'm Really Craving

Pregnancy brings on strange things, but here is what I've REALLY been craving:

1) Watching My Kids Chase Lightening Bugs

2) Sitting in a Rocking Chair on a Deck Overlooking Mountains while Sipping Iced Tea

3) Driving Down Crooked Roads Listening to Country Music

4) Exploring Small Town Antique Stores

5) Wearing a Sweater at Night

6) Listening to Frogs and Crickets Near the Pond at Dusk

7) Playing Card Games Around the Kitchen Table at Night Before Bedtime

8) Watching Old Movies the Other Nights in a Dim Room

9) Taking a Picnic Lunch of Melva's Fried Chicken and Homemade Potato Salad to the Creek in the Mountains

10) Hiking Up the Peaks Trail to the Top and Overlook the City of Bedford, VA

August is Coming!

August is coming, and in the Bock house that means a ton of activity, planning, spending, and running around. Before Stephen and I were married, August was uneventful; oh, how things have changed!
I'll give you a peek at our upcoming calendar:

August 8: Kelli Doctor in the a.m.; Hunter and Iveigh Doctor in the p.m.
August 9: Hunter Soccer "Tryout" (in the a.m.); Birthday party to be at by 1:00
August 14: Kelli Doctor
August 17: Iveigh Turns 2
August 19: Grand Bocks Should Arrive From Overseas
August 21: Hunter's First Day of School
August 23: SYSCO Day at Sea World (if Stephen is working instead, I attend a shower)
August 24: 6 Year Wedding Anniversary
August 29: Hunter turns 5

That is a sneak peek....now sit back a breathe for me....

Pregnancy From My Perspective....

You Know You're Pregnant When.....

1) You pass up yummy frozen drinks at the beach

2) Your "skinny" jeans involve a four inch waist band

3) Your allergies are acting up and you are unable to pop a pill

4) You cry at sappy Publix commercials

5) Being stuck with needles at the OBGYN multiple times become routine

6) While gaining weight you actually want rigorous exercise but can't

7) You think that your feet are the sexiest thing on your body

8) You read every label and have your doctor on speed dial

9) You feel justified for eating anything at anytime and anywhere

10) You pop your belly out at the hopes that people notice you're pregnant and not just oddly proportioned

Great News!

Today I got great news from the doctor. The baby does not have any chromosomal defects! Hurray! Our prayers have been answered. I can finally breathe, again. What a wonderful early birthday present!

This has been the hardest obstacle that I personally had to overcome to date. I am sure that this won't be the last hurdle in my path, but with every experience like this I grow. I've tried to "count it all joy" and to "trust in the Lord" (some times better than other times....but hey, I'm human). Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Please, celebrate with me....!!!!!

Taking it "easy"

I know that most people would enjoy the excuse of not being able to do anything, but it does get old after a while. It is Saturday, almost noon, and I'm ready to be back to my normal way of things. Yesterday, I started anticipating a call back from the doctor's office that should come in on Monday. That will be able to give me some initial results from the amnio. The full report takes about two weeks.

I try to imagine what the nurse will say, and what my reaction will be. This has definitely been the hardest and bumpiest road that I've personally traveled to date. Its also hard when you feel that others around you don't understand or appreciate the severity or the weight of it. It is hard to explain and defend my emotions, but I don't exactly know if I need to, either. For I know that if others experienced this same dilemma, their reactions and feelings would want to be warranted and sympathized by others. Regardless of the outcome, my feelings aren't going to change. I pray for good results.

Trying to Breathe

"Trust in the Lord with all of your heart...."
I have heard, read, and memorized this verse so many times throughout the years, and it is one that I struggle with so much. Sometimes, anxiety rushes over me, and I feel disappointed in myself that I have let it invade my mind, again. Other people try to remind me to cling to this verse, but that makes me feel worse knowing that I have these words from God and I still struggle. It isn't like I don't want to "let go and let God." It is that I pray and rely, but emotions still linger within my heart.

Is that wrong? Can someone, totally, give up a burden mind, body and soul? To feel absolutely no anxiety at all? Wow....maybe I am not that spiritually advanced....

Whatever the case, I am waiting on results from the amnio. The doctor may call tomorrow with initial results about two "defects." You already know that I am struggling, but I don't want to admit it. Consider this me being transparent and confessing before God and everyone else.....

Yuck, I know!

Ok people! Today I got my stitches out from my mole-ectomy (I'm not sure that is even a word but it's a fun word). All went well and now I have a tiny hole that needs to heal up. Remember, when it comes to marks on your skin...."When in doubt, get it checked out!"....Oh! Please, pray for us tomorrow...(btw)...I am having the amniocentesis and will be on bed rest for 2 days after. Please, pray for great results and safety during the procedure....THANKS!

Amnio. Update

Today Stephen and I went in to see our doctor for the amniocentesis. Let me start off by listing these key words: long needle, no numbing meds., ultra sound, iodine, contractions, ouch. Now I am resting at my parent's house while writing my blog to you wonderful people. Prayerfully, I will be fine and there will be no complications with me or the baby. Updates to come....thanks for praying....

Missing Freddie

I miss Freddie....=(

Could My Emotions Have A VaCa...please!

Today was another emotional day for the Bock family. Geesh....Before leaving for church, a neighbor approached Stephen to complain about our dogs being outside and left alone and not being friendly. We know that they deserve better care, but we haven't been able to give them lately with everything else going on around here. They have a pretty good set up in the back yard. It is shady, with their water and food bowls with plenty of room to walk around with space to lounge and relax.

Yet, due to the fireworks, it spooked the dogs into running away. Our neighbor apparently returned them without our knowledge. All of these event led up to Stephen taking them to the SPCA to be adopted out to families that can care for them better. We both cried over our K9 babies leaving, but we knew that it was the best option for them.

An hour after his return, an animal services person knocked on our door answering a complaint about the dogs. Apparently, a neighbor called them out. How annoying! With all the junk that goes on around us (wandering cats, obnoxious fireworks, junk in the backyards, etc....) and I have never called or complained to them about it....OK its on.....

Thought?

Thoughts that Have Crossed My Mind Today

1) Five Days Until My Amniocentesis

2) Could my new neighbors be any more annoying

(Shooting Off Last Nights Extra Fireworks at 10 in the am)?

3) Why does my dog escape to sit on the front porch?

4) Do I really have to clean up this entire house myself?

5) How much is a maid service, really...

6) Could there be something wrong with my baby?

7) How hard is it for a four year old to put away puzzle pieces

(the first time he's asked)?

8) Why do kid shows make me feel so comfy and nice?

9) My stitches are itching me like mad.

(Is that normal?)

10) I wish that I had some other good news about the baby....

So there are my thoughts.....random....but on a Saturday, that's all I've got! Please continue to pray for our family; I know that it has been a long road, and thank you for enduring it with us!

Update About the Baby

Sorry that this blog is getting out a little late, but we just got home. We went to our appointment today prepared to get an amniocentesis, but that didn't happen.

First, I signed my consent and readied myself for it. Next, we went in the ultrasound room and held our breath to see a heart beat and a moving baby, and that is what we saw (praise God!)...the lady admin. the ultrasound was taking measurements and said "I can almost guarantee that this baby does not have trisomy 18..." PHEW! Thank you Lord! After she took all the pictures and measurements that she could they were reviewed by the doctor

Thirty minutes later, he came in. He let us know that there was a higher risk of complications (due to the amnio) than there was of us having a baby with a defect. So, we have to wait a week (I will be passed the 15week gest. and the risks with the amnio. are less)...That is the only diagnostic test that will let us know for certain if anything is wrong.

Yet, we did leave this visit feeling encouraged. We saw the heartbeat....we saw the baby wiggling and moving....and all of the measurements go along with a healthy baby. Next week (July 10) I will be having the amnio. and will be on bed rest for two days after. It will take about a week for the results to come in.

Our walk out of the woods isn't yet over. We thank you for your continued prayers and will be sending more updates...

I Need More Prayer...My Storm Continues

Yes, personal struggles sometime make you vulnerable and expose emotion and thoughts when you try your best to suppress them (ask our waitress tonight at the Outback). Lately, I find myself tearing up every time I try to talk about anything to do with a baby. I yearn for the days past when my biggest concern was whether it is a boy or a girl. But my reality is that won't be the case for at least another 3 weeks or perhaps during the duration of this pregnancy. I need prayer for the upcoming appointment and results. I am being selfish and just asking for a completely healthy baby.

Some tell me not to worry or stress over it all, but I can't do that. I have found that this could seriously be the hardest thing I have had to deal with in my lifetime. I've had family members terminally ill; my husband had cancer, and my life has been sprinkled with mundane drama that we all experience. Yet, when it comes to your child....and it is a serious life and death matter....everything is thrown into the air and you are left trying to gather it all up again, put things back into place, but you know that nothing can or will ever be the same again. Even if everything turns out to be fine, I will carry this pain and these thoughts with me throughout my life and reflect on them from time to time. Yes, I will be praising God for the outcome (if all does prove to be fine), but I know that my outlook and view point is forever changed.

That's alright, though. That is how we grow and mature in this life...through trials. Thank you, Lord, for trials. Hard to say it, even harder to mean it. I ask you, please, to continue to pray for our family, for me (peace and joy), for this baby (health), and for the upcoming appointment(s) (for fast test results...and good test results).....There isn't enough words for the thanks I have for those who are carrying this burden with me and are praying for us....

I need good news....

I thought that this was all over; it is not. Today wasn't another doctor day, and it wasn't a great experience. I was informed that I will be going to a specialist to have further testing on our baby. It seems that there could already be a problem for the doctor couldn't find the heart beat today. I was afraid of the rug being pulled from beneath me at this visit, and it was. Please pray for us while we are waiting to see this new doctor and go through more testing.

Honest and Update

Over the last week I have been on an emotional roller coaster. Stephen and I were faced with a potential problem with our unborn child. We were not prepared for this type of news. I was actually ready handle something being wrong with my health, but when the thought of our child being sick came into the picture I didn't know how to handle it. Let me tell you, everything you thought you knew about yourself goes out the window. How you picture yourself handling this kind of news isn't how you end up handling it. I became so detached from everyone, including my baby. I distanced myself from anything to do with babies. No one could snap me out of this.

Even when we went in to see our baby on ultrasound, so that they could investigate further, I wasn't able to own this child. That sounds horrible, I know. This is me being honest. While my husband was smiling and overjoyed seeing a beating heart and kicking legs, I cried. I sobbed, actually. Already, I was mourning. Perhaps, I was preparing myself for the worst possible scenario, or putting up a wall so that I didn't have to deal with a potential harsh reality.

In any case, this isn't how I pictured myself handling a situation like this. All I could do is have people pray for the baby, for me. I clung to the thought that people were lifting us up while I was struggling for a sense of normalcy. I couldn't function. I bought a puzzle....1000 pieces to keep my mind off of the "what if" and my own worst enemy, my imagination. I cried a lot. Sometimes, I would try to sneak off to the bathroom, run the bath water, and just cry until I could breathe. My heart ached and nothing soothed it. The days crawled by....

Today, I anticipated the doctor's office calling me with the results from Friday. Again, I prepared myself for the worst possible thing. I've noticed how often that I do that. My mind always races to the worst end of things, and I try to work my way back from there. It's hard to work your way back, by the way.

I picked up my son from VBS as we were getting back into the car, the nurse called. I stopped still and held my breath. They read the results and found the baby to be fine. (Breathe out, Kelli). The measurements were right on, and the nuchal translucency testing came back with a 2mm (they investigate further if it measures 3mm). She also informed me that other tests didn't seem necessary. I cried and laughed at the same time. The nurse, Dawn, has no idea what an impact she has made on my life. I thanked her, hung up, and got behind the wheel of the car.
Finally it sank in; I could see myself holding a healthy baby...I thought about a new stroller. All of these things that I had blocked off came rushing back into play. My baby is fine....thank you Jesus! I stopped and screamed in delight while thanking God for helping me and our family.

Hopefully, this will be the last bump in the pregnancy road. If you'd be willing, I am still asking for prayer....I am coming up from a low and down from a high at once, and I am still a little hesitant celebrating thinking that perhaps I may have to have further testing. I don't want to feel the blow of something like this again, so I will remain guarded until I can hold this little bundle in my arms!

Thank you for praying. God is faithful....and today, my baby is fine!

Oddly Enough

Oddly enough, my last blog was an entry on how God had answered prayer. Now, my family needs prayer for our unborn baby. I won't go into details or explanations. I am just asking for prayer. Another test will be given on Friday and results won't be explained until Monday. God answers prayer and is faithful. We are asking for peace, wisdom, healthy baby/mom, and great test results. Thanks.

YES, He's listening!

The Following e-mail was sent to my mother from our good family friend Wendy. She was going in for surgery Wednesday for breast cancer that had come back after ten years of being in remission...PRAISE GOD FOR THIS MIRACLE!

"Lynne...just wanted to update you..I had a great experience..just a miracle...I went to the hospital Wed morning around 5:00 to have surgery..got hooked up to the IV and rolled to the Mammography room to have the needles inserted into the breast so the surgeon would know where the tissue was that needed to be removed and they could NOT find anything in the mammogram....the 2 areas had disappeared and were not visible any more...they kept taking pictures and comparing the new with the ones I had that were abnormal..and could not explain why or where they went...I know it was miraculous and lots of prayers were answered..so they canceled my surgery and I went home...wasn't that a big blessing...I wanted to do flips down the hall..it was such a relief and I was smiling all the way home...hahaha...Thank you very much for your thoughts and prayers....they are powerful and they do work...I do so appreciate it ...with God and all my family and friends prayingfor me...I was able to walk out of the hospital with ease....I send congratulations to Kelli and Kimberly and do hope they are feeling great and will soon have wonderful bundles of joy to present to your family...I'm going to make an extra effort to come and see you guys one day soon....and please do come here anytime...you will not recognize Fayetteville...there have been so many changes and all good....yet it's still HOT...but you're use to that anyway...stay well and tell all hello..thanks again..love you guys, Wendy"

Another Doctor Day!

Let me start by saying that today went better than I anticipated. Stephen was with me throughout the entire day. I went to my OBGYN and my blood pressure was still super high; however, in the parking lot....it was a lot lower. I am now diagnosing myself with white coat syndrome! BUT...my other tests (1) Good Kidney Function 2) No Diabetes, yet!) came back and were totally fine. PLUS, we heard our baby's heart beat. It didn't take the doctor very long to find it, either! The heartbeat is strong and sounds great! I guess that makes it truly real!!!!
Afterwards, we made our way over to our dermatologist. You may know that Stephen had a melanoma a few years ago; now, we go every year for check ups. This time, they decided to biopsy two moles of mine and one of Stephen's. If there is anything suspicious about them they will call us by Tuesday. SO, please be praying that they aren't cancerous and that no surgery will be needed.
OK, there is my update...go call or hug a family member and be grateful to God that you have that ability!

Raw Emotions

A truer statement has never been spoken. No other word stirs up the same emotion within me. The word that took my grandmother, tried to steal my husband, and has crept into so many other lives that touch mine. Like Satan, it comes in many forms; randomly slithering silently in and out of families breaking them down to a bare core of hope and raw emotions. I despise the name.

Lately, this disease has effected many around me. I will be praying for these people and their families...please join me whether you know them or not.

Carla, Vicki, Wendy, Betty-Sue, Matt, Lora, Delores, Lynn

For my Granny:

I love you and miss you so very much. My family visits your resting spot as often as we can; although, I know that you are not there. I try to pick flowers and colors that you'd like. I missed you at my graduation, wedding, and during the birth of your great grandchildren. I know that you would have loved them so much. I'm sorry for not being there during the end when you were in so much pain. Mom thought it would be best that way, and I know that you didn't want us to see you that way. I regret it, though. If I ever disappointed you, forgive me. I love you and cry to you often. There are so many other things that I want to say to you, but it falls upon deaf ears. One day, I will be able to sit and chat with you about it all.....until then, Granny, thanks for the meals, go fish, night time comforts, and love that I hope you felt, too. I love you.

Is this thing on?

Hello, is my computer working? Am I somehow living in a parallel universe where life seems to be going on around me; however, life has really ceased to exist, and the only way I am going to find this out is through blogspot? Is anyone still out there? This kind of feels like a plot from a low budget sci-fi movie...huh...

11 Reasons Why Today Was Weird

1) Three Different Men Came to My House Before 8:30 in the Morning in Ten Minute Increments...Randomly

2) I Saw a Miniature Burro Being Pulled in a Lawn Maintenance Trailer

3) My Blood Pressure Raised Twenty Points in Less than Twenty Minutes (from the parking lot to the doctor's office)

4) My Blood Pressure then Dropped Ten Points in Less than Ten Minutes

5) I Think My Doctor Reasoned My Low Blood Pressure at Home to "Resting All Day" After I Told Him that I Stay At Home with My Children....and Also Considered My Being at His Office as "Out and About Activity".....?

6) The Doctor Drew My Blood Today (because the nurse was busy?)

7) I FELL on the Doctor's Office Floor...In Front of the Doctor...

8) I Think that He May Have Blamed My Falling Because of My Flip Flops While He was Cleaning Up a Wet Spot on the Floor....?

9) The Drive Through Window Worker at McD's Told a Man that He Didn't Understand Because He was White While Looking at Me and Handing Me My Food....awkward....

10) At Arby's I asked For a "Turk-N Bake-IE" Instead of a Turkey Bacon with a Pepsi

11) I Honked my Horn on Accident in the Drive Through Line and Made the Manager Mad...and I Think I got a Trainee Into Trouble....

Some days are easier than others. Today was an easy day, and I thank God for these days. Stephen was home, and he took the kids to the splash zone; I shopped and did errands all by myself!

For those of you who do not have children, animals, or some other living being that you are responsible for, relish in the moments that you have by yourself to do...well...whatever it is that you want! I never appreciated being alone before being married and having kids. Now I thrive on alone (or just with my friends) "me" time!

OK, sorry for that bunny trail. We wrapped up the day with a family bike ride, an awesome dinner (meat, green beans, fresh shucked corn, cantaloupe), and a Disney movie. Ahhh....

Also, we transferred our little 21 month old to a big girl bed. It was a little tough at first, but I know that with patience, stubbornness, and consistency it will work out. I actually cried when we took the rails off of the crib. My little girl isn't a baby, and I feel as though I missed it somehow. Seriously, I am/was fully present and coherent at all times; however, my baby girl that I thought that I would never have is sleeping in a toddler bed with pull ups on instead of a "diaper." So, I did what every mother has the right to do. I cried. I am crying now thinking of it. I think that is all this blog needs tonight....so I'll end it here....crying like a girl....

Anne of yawn.....

Is it a crime against femininity to not fully enjoy The Anne of Green Gables series? It isn't like I despise them; it is just the amount of time you must forfeit in order to watch them all. I probably would have issues if I were to put in my favorite movie and watch it continuously for hours on end. Isn't that a form of torture? I guess that people now know what would push me over the edge.
Apparently when watching it recently with friends, I did not hide my feelings very well (and I really thought that I did). It is just that 3 1/2 hours into it, I merely snapped. I am weak. However, in my defense, one person went to another room to sleep, one remained on her laptop, and the other two played scrabble (you know who you are). Where did that leave me? The only actually fully paying attention to the screen.

I guess that the only way you can fully enjoy the Anne series is to not watch it at all; instead, preoccupy yourself with something more exciting while running it in the background. Ouch, the truth hurts ladies...but I will be silenced NO LONGER!

Bad Doctor Day...

Today was my first visit to my doctor for the baby, and I knew that things were not going to go my way when I almost walked into the wrong office. Upon my arrival I was the only patient in the waiting room, and then the nurse called me back. She did a short interview with me then weighed me. Next, something that I have been dreading since I made the doctor's appointment, she took my blood pressure! For some reason, whenever I go to any doctor's office at any time my blood pressure shoots up. I can't control it (even when I hold my breath to slow down my heart rate)....so that was hurdle number one
Next, she lead me to my exam room where she would also draw some blood. First, she attempted my arm. Apparently, she got the vein OK but it stop producing soon after; that made her decide to go for my hand, instead. YUCK!? She kind of got the same result and stated, "Your blood is so thick."
That's the first. I have yet to have heard that one. OK. Now the doctor enters (physical exam....etc.) after which he wants to check my blood pressure, again. Excuse me? I think that the physical exam part puts no one "at rest" when we are talking about blood pressure, right?
That led to a little speech about me needing to come back in next week to check out my kidney function, gestational diabetes, and blood pressure.
Let me also refresh your memory that I am only 7 weeks 5 days along and should be pregnant for 40 weeks. This is going to be a long road, and I will need prayer apparently......so if you would be so kind......
Until the next time

Is this for real?

Ok, so it has been a little while since the last time that I was pregnant, but is it possible to forget what it "feels" like? I think that I have. Right now I am around 6 weeks along (maybe more?). I just don't "feel" pregnant. There isn't the stretching feeling, no morning sickness, nothing really but a blank area on my calendar and a positive pregnancy test (or four).

I kind of remember going through this the last time. It just builds up my anxiety a little bit. I want to know that everything is moving along fine, and I need confirmation from my doctor. I have until May 19 to kick these thoughts around. Oh what the imagination can create inside my mind!

Chinese Nirvana?

Why is Chinese take out so good? I just enjoyed mandarin chicken and chow mien with a vegetable spring roll. Is it really the flavor that is so enticing, or is it merely the fact that I didn't have to cook a single thing? Perhaps, the draw is knowing that there will be no dishes to hand wash. Whatever the reason, it surely filled my internal void and pregnancy "yuckies". Let me leave you with my fortune from the dainty packaged cookie:
"A light heart carries you through the hard times."
By the way, your lucky numbers are 6, 13, 14, 23, 26, 37

I first wrote the blog above last night around 9:00pm. Ignorance was bliss. By 5:00am I was bowing before the porcelain throne submitting my "offerings". Therefore, cleaning up dishes, cooking for yourself and everything else I said was so wonderful about Chinese takeout was utter crud! It is worth the minor labor if it means avoiding the horrible aftermath.
I am still sitting on the couch recovering. Again, not worth it!

Police, Cars, and Bullet Holes!

Ok, so God does work in mysterious ways. While my friends window being shot was being investigated by police and handled by an insurance company I was distracted and was going to stick around until it was settled....
Meanwhile at my home there were police rushing down my street, a helicopter hovering and an armed man running around the woods behind our neighbor's house. He was captured (after someone was possible shot) and taken into custody.
This is where God's plan I spoke about earlier is evident. If I wasn't earlier distracted by the ongoings about my friends car...then I would have been pulling up to my home right in the middle of all of this madness. I believe that I was being protected from something that may have happened.
So that you God for your protection...and thank you Cindy for having your car there...dealing with your insurance company and helpful policemen for my safety AND playing your part in God's plan of protection. =)

SOMETIMES

• Sometimes there isn't words for the frustration.
• Sometimes you should keep your mouth shut.
• Sometimes you shouldn't.
• Sometimes you feel as though you will burst with insanity if you hold on to it any longer.
• Sometimes your frustration is spewed onto the wrong person.
• Sometimes you need to pray about it.
• Sometimes you get annoyed when people tell you things that you already know.
• Sometimes you wish you could get out how you really feel without repercussions.
• Sometimes you just have to blog it.
• Sometimes you can't because you never know who's reading it.
• Sometimes there is nothing left to say or do.

The name game

I am convinced that the first challenging job of a parent is to name the baby. Naming another human being is a huge responsibility! I am sure the Ragina's and Poindexter's of the world would agree with this blog.
Stephen and I were kicking around names for the new baby today. It seems that when we feel secure with one, someone either takes it or tells us how much they hate it! That led me to sending out a mass e-mail today asking for other people's favorite names.
In the past we've read books, read polls, and even researched personalities assumptions that people make when hearing names when naming our kids. We have also raided the family tree (even if you don't have kids you should try it for a good laugh).
Certain names are cute now, but what will people think of a 50 year old woman name Trixie or something? It just doesn't have the same effect. Plus, I don't think that the name Trixie can compare to the name Alexandra on a resume.
Thoughts?

The Me Questionaire

What was i doing ten years ago?
I was seventeen years old on the verge of graduating, and I was about to be shipped off to an university that I hated!
5 things on my "to-do" list...
1) Fold Laundry 2) Clean out car
3) Grow Baby in Utero 4) Feed and Clothe Everyone Daily
5) To spot clean at least 30 min. daily
Snacks I enjoy
Nutella, Golden Apples, Ice Pop, and Baguette
Five things I'd do if i were a billionaire...
1) Pay of Debts 2) Buy/Build dream home 3) Give & Donate to missions/churches 4) De-burden parents financially 5) Extend our family further by adoption
5 bad habits...
1) Being too blunt 2) Remembering Everything
3) Worrying/Anxiety 4) Biting my nails
5) Obsessing
Places I've lived...
Fayetteville, NC
Casselberry, FL
Cullowhee, NC
Oviedo, FL
Orlando, FL
Sanford, FL
Five jobs I've had...
1) Compliance Clerk w/ Sears 2) Donations Services @ CCC 3) Starbucks Barista
4) Cheerleading Coach 5) Substitute Teacher
Who's Next?
Cindy Harle
Danielle (formerly Dahl)
ummm....anyone else that hasn't been mentioned from Jen's blog???????

Meaty Madness!

It is almost one o'clock in the morning and...WHAM...my first pregnancy craving has hit me!
STEAK!
I am not an avid red meat eater, nor do I store steak in my refrigerator unless a super special occasion is approaching.
Yet, like a runaway freight train this craving is uncontrollable. My mouth salivates like a dog, and I have dragged myself out of my warm cozy bed to the quiet frigid kitchen.
As a substitute, I have located beef in the fridge (meant for tomorrows dinner). Yes, I now have actually pulled out my frying pan and without second thought, have whipped it up for my consumption.
Readers, do not be filled with dismay and total disgust. I am proud to announce that this beef was 100% organic (no hormones, additives, etc. AND the animal was raised on a complete vegetarian diet). Plus, I have pulled out the all natural chicken for dinner....everyone wins and everyone is fed!
OH, and by the way...IT IS Sooooooooooooo WORTH IT!

Finally, a conclusion

OK, so the debate has been thrown around in several circles about Africans clapping on the offbeat rather that the "even" beats. I know that this sounds confusing (and a little dumb), but for some reason it has been eating away at me!
Stephen (Africa native since birth) and family (parents still reside overseas) have clapped the same as me throughout and have joked about the apparent clapping impaired that plagues our churches and people (all in good fun).
SO, when the idea came up that we were not clapping/keeping the beat the "African" way you can see our disgust with the very idea!
That got me digging....I researched many songs, sites, stories, and anything else that could help me reach a conclusion (right or wrong).....and what I found was surprising.
When Africans are singing traditional "African" songs or have arranged music they do tend to clap on the off beat. However, when adapting an "English" song they tend to clap on the even beats!
Both sides are right! The actual answer and problem were simply lost in translation!
You can be assured that I am breathing a sigh of relief as this inner turmoil can finally be extinguished.

The Bock Expansion Project

Last week, I was driving home from having dinner with some friends. Stephen asked me to get some ice cream on my way home, and while I was in the Walgreens it occurred to me that I may need to pick up a pregnancy test. I didn't "feel" pregnant, and I actually thought that it was a silly idea that I didn't need to follow through on. But, they were on sale. I went home and performed the test (I'll spare you the details...). Minutes later I was shocked to see a plus sign in the results window.

I walked out to see Stephen and told him to close his eyes (he had no idea a test was purchased and administrated). I simply asked, "Are you ready for this?" Stephen nervously, "What?" With that I handed him the test and told him to open his eyes and said, "To be a father again." Stephen got over the initial shock of the plus sign and digested the information. He hugged me and said "Of coarse!"

Wow, God's timing. Three other tests later (I'm a bit of a skeptic), I conceded to the fact that I am indeed pregnant. My first doctor's appointment is May 19, and I am approximately 5 weeks along (super beginning stages). Pray that everything progresses smoothly, please; and you know that I'll be keeping you updated!!!

Is it really me...or?

Am I really cocky? Am I really intimidating?
I have been told this by a few different people. Weird, but I never thought of myself in that way.
Is it my body language? Is it the way I approach conversation?
Is it that I don't seek out people immediately; that I wait for people to come to me?
What is it? Thoughts?

Are you Kidding me?

Late this afternoon my family ventured out to the mall. There is a play area in the center where we are able to sit and watch them play with other kids. While sitting in the food court with my children (very visible and sitting at the table) two guys walk bye. One of the two dropped the "f" bomb right there in his conversation. You would think that would be enough, but this obviously classy guy decided to enunciate the word in a louder than normal voice while walking right by my 4 1/2 year old.
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
I decided to speak in my own loud tone and said
"Son (to my child), NEVER use that word" -ME
"What word mommy?" -4 1/2yr old
"The word that came out of that man's mouth. He wasn't using his SMART words, and it isn't ever OK to say." -ME
A part of me really wanted to go over to him and bop in upside his head. (Tonight on eyewitness news....mother of two arrested for assault in a mall)....The other part of me was just to dumbfounded and livid to do anything.
People have to be aware of those around them. They may not be offended by certain things, but they are not the only ones walking the planet. And by the way random guy at the mall....
MIND YOUR MOUTH....DO YOU KISS YOUR MOTHER WITH THAT MOUTH?

Tonight was a Green Tea Night

I love green tea. It calms me, makes me feel as though I am being healthy, and is cheaper than coffee. Don't get me wrong, I still my "Joe" but the green tea maybe moving its way into my heart.
A lot of people don't like green tea. I don't know why. With the perfect amount of honey and a raw sugar packet I am just moments away from seeping into a relaxed state of mind. Its great.

Giggly Girls

I was taken back to silly school girl giggling tonight, and it was fun. I would publish more quotes, but I need to save that ammo for another time. Plus, everyone else that wasn't around may not appreciate them in their raw state.
Let me just say, that my husband is the best...letting his wife go out two times in three days to just be silly with the girls! How awesome is that? He get the kids to bed and everything, and he never complains about it....not even a sarcastic remark! That's a winner, and one reason I married him. Truly, a wonderful man that wants happiness for me!
I also love my friends! How great to basically invite yourself over to someone's house and hang out on their sofa for three hours...interrupting their nightly TV rituals with side bar comments followed by snickers and giggles. Linds...you're pretty cool, and your dogs are super cute! Cindy, no bitterness, no walls, and a mind like yours is a terrible thing to waste. I know that you enjoy sitting by me (for so many reasons...I can think of two right now).....Ok...so the quotes I said I wouldn't post...they are was too good to waste...so here are a few from tonight (some edited for content j/k)
1) "10 things I hate about you" "YEAH, SPEAKING ABOUT THAT...."
2) "Don't catch his puke"
3) "I love me some sugar"
4) "You aren't good enough to catch my vomit"
5) "Jealous?"

W_ _ _ Y_ _ M_ _ _ I_

Had to Be there Moments

These are 20 conversational moments I've had with friends from all walks of life...you may recognize one or two...If you have no idea what this is all about....sorry this won't be a normal occurrence...

1) "...they tied him up...." Response, "Ohh...that's scary....at least he is saved..."

2) "I never thought I'd be friends with you..."

3) "No that wasn't pouting....that was mad" (sub. alternate word here)

4) "What's next...a hanging?"

5) "I'm sitting on 1000 and I don't want to farckle"

6) "I'm sitting at my pooter"

7) "He doesn't have a very high GQ"

8) "I'm so happy I'm on cloud 8"

9) "This pig is hogging all of the room"

10) "Shhhhh.....stop guessing, I'm trying to think" - While playing catch phrase

11) "Here's another brick for that wall"

12) "Can you have a non-judgement table at Denny's?"

13) "Life changes those things...you know...those things..."

14) "Is that a mouse in your pocket...."

15) "HEY...Look what this guy here is buying to look at.....!"

16) "Who dare disturb my slumber....NOT IT"

17) "They all look the same to me"

18) "HEY MR MONEY BAGS!" - followed by the death look...

19) "You don't like me very much, do you Aaron" "No, not so much."

20) "What's that?" "Oh man, give me the pen and paper...."