Infantino Front 2 Back Carrier

This is the greatest thing ever! Well, not ever, but I have gone from only having one hand free to two hands. Benji seems to really like it too. Today I was even able to go outside and play fetch with Dayton. He fell asleep when I was washing his bottles and I was able to get him out and put him in his bed without waking him. Bonus: I can feel a slight burn in the muscles in my thighs when I wear it. Not only is it a carrier but a work out device as well.

Joe Cool

Early Mother's Day

I have been eye balling this gem for a few months. It is the Bissel Pet Hair Eraser. oooooo......awwwww. I have been hinting to John that I wanted, have to have, this for Mother's Day. It was on sale at Target so I got to get it early! I was so excited to use it. I turned it on and Benji started screaming. hummm, I guess I will have to wait until he is asleep.

Check Up

Benjamin had his 2 month check up and vaccinations on Monday. He was 10lbs 2oz and 22 inches, he has gone from being in the 5 percentile to the 25th, which is wonderful news. He was very brave for his shots. (Much braver than his Mommy) Luckily John was there to hold down his hands down so I got to be the comforter after the shots. He maybe cried for 30 seconds, I was very proud. He did have a penile adhesion ( I would go into detail but thats what google is for). That caused him much more problems than the shots. He did have a fever this morning and slept quite a bit, other than those two things he had no other side effects from the vaccines.
I realized last night that he was probably big enough to move on to the next stage in his bath. It goes from newborn, to infant, to toddler. He loved it. I must say, I loved it too. It was much easier and more fun to watch him.

Honest Abe & Benjamin Franklin

Those little cheekies

Benji is really filling out...finally. He is also getting quite the little personality. He knows exactly what he wants and when he wants it, which is immediately.

A video John made (turn up your volume)

Two Months Old Today

My baby is two months old today.

Likes:
To be talked to
Elmo
Baths
Lights
Outside
To be set up
Being rocked and nursed to sleep
Baby milk
Music

Dislikes:
Being ignored
Getting in his face
Having his hands held down
Being woke up (a big no no in his book)
Mucus sucker (for lack of a better term)

Papa Joe

My dad has a special touch with babies. Since I was ten I have watched him put all my nieces and nephews to sleep and countless other babies. Now that I watch him do the same with my son it makes my heart smile.

It seems as though Benji has past on his sickness to me so during my rest I thought I would post some more pictures.

Apparently no one told Benji he was sick.

First Trip to the Minor Emergency

Benji has had a dry cough for a few days, and I hadn't thought much of it. Yesterday morning when I went to get him out of bed he was covered in vomit/spit-up (its looks the same to me). When I started to change him I noticed his cough now sounded productive. As the day progressed so did his cough. While I was on the phone with Jenny he started coughing she strongly suggested I take him to an after hours clinic. In the back on my mind I had wanted to all day, but thought it was maybe first time mom jitters. We went to the new Children's Minor Emergency at St Francis. It was so nice, everything was brand new. We had an appointment at 7, we waited about an hour in the waiting room. They took his vitals and weighed him (ya, now 9lbs) and we saw the doctor within a few minutes. After nose suction and chest x-rays they ruled out RSV and pneumonia. Poor little guy is fighting a virus. To my credit the doctor said you can't take any chances with little ones when it comes to congestion. So maybe I am not so paranoid : )

One Month to Live

We are starting a new series at church entitled, "One Month to Live". In small group the question went around the circle, how would you change your life if you had one month to live. After small group I realized everyone, including myself, misinterpreted and answered what you would do. For example, make sure my son, my husband, my estates are all in order and not how you would change your everyday life. So of course my wheels got to turning, how would I change my life, how would I think differently.
-I wouldn't wear make-up, take 20 minutes figuring out what I would wear, exercise to lose weight, diet, or go shopping. How could I justify that time spent away from those I love to make my" shell" look better? Every minute is precious.
-I wouldn't spend so much time making sure my house if clean before people came over or worse, not have people over because I don't want to clean my house. Seriously, do I care if people at my funeral say, "She always had such a clean house."
-I would drive to see my sister more. Gas prices and maintenance on the car would seem so trivial.
-I would be much more honest. I wouldn't say I am a liar now, but I wouldn't hold so much in. I guess I wouldn't care so much about making people feel uncomfortable, or hurting their feelings. In life some times the truth hurts.
-I would talk more about my faith. I am ashamed to say I rarely talk about God to those I love the most.
-I would answer the phone when people call, I would make the time no matter what I am doing.
-I would throw my TV to the curb. I have caught myself on more than one occasion saying, I will come to bed as soon as this show is over, or I will call them back over this show is over. DVR has helped, but now I feel like I watch even more TV. It makes me sad when I think I know everyones names on Big Brother, but not everyones name in church.

So, how would you live differently?

The Final Four

John left this morning to work the final four. He is really excited, this is the biggest event he has worked. He will be gone until Tuesday, so Benji and I will be holding down the fort until then. Day one has been good, dare I say boring? Benjamin is changing daily. I put on an outfit today and he had outgrown it, I believe overnight. He let out his first little giggle today. I look forward to many more. Since starting a routine and some supplementing formula its like I have a different child. He seems so much more content. He is a happy little boy and I am a happy little momma.
School starts for me June 2. I am really looking forward to it. I decided to take Sociology this summer and to get my CNA. Sociology is necessary for my bachelors (if I choose that path) and my CNA is required for the TCC nursing program. This fall I am enrolled in Microbiology and Physiology, oddly enough I am really excited about these classes. They are going to be extremely challenging, but I am ready for some brain stimulation. I will be through with my prerequisites after those two classes and will be applying for TCC nursing program for the Spring. If I do not get in, I will continue taking prereqs for my bachelors. Apparently TCC has a bridge program with OU-Tulsa to take your first 3 years at TCC (at TCC's tuition as opposed to OU's) and finish your senior year at OU. I haven't really looked into it, but it is a possibility.

Chunky Monkey

We went to the doctor today for a weight check and Mr. Benji is 8lbs even! That is about a pound in one week. I am doing about half formula and half breast milk now. I didn't realize how emotional it would be for me to stop breastfeeding, so I started breastfeeding again too. It makes for a busy day pumping, breastfeeding, freezing milk, preparing formula bottles, but its all worth it to me. Eventually I would like to breastfeed and pump only and stop the formula. For now I am just taking it one day at a time.

Its Like Night and Day

Today I started exclusively using the bottle AND doing a routine. I hate saying schedule, but basically thats what I tried to do and partially succeeded. We did Eat, Awake, Sleep, You (me) time. The acronym EASY, I got it off Baby Whisperer. Thank you for the introduction Audrey. I must say I have always thought I was against routine or scheduling, but I am not a good reader of cues. Every cue Benji gave me I thought he was telling me he was hungry. With a schedule I know what to expect AND with actually seeing how much he ate, I do not assume he is hungry 20 minutes later when he is sucking on his hand, I KNOW he just ate 3 oz. With Benji starting out sickly, I need that reassurance of actually seeing what he is getting. I feel like a new woman today. John and I actually had dinner together at a RESTAURANT with Benji. No problems, we went during his sleep time.
For all you pro breast feeders, I haven't stopped pumping, in fact I am pumping more than I have ever been able to (2-3 oz in 5 minutes). It is amazing what relaxing can do for you.
aaaaahhhhhh.........(thats me letting out a sigh of relief)

I QUIT, I QUIT, I QUIT!!!!

I lost it today, lost it. I am so tired. My body hurts. My brain is no longer functioning. I either have postpartum depression or I am just stressed to the absolute max. I cried the majority of the day. Benji didn't sleep during the day. We went on a walk, sat outside and enjoyed the weather, sang songs, but those little peepers would not close. To make it worse he wouldn't eat either, at least not from me. And to top it off John is out of town for the first time since he has been born.
So after a tearful call to my momma, I decided to quit breastfeeding. It felt like the world had been lifted off my shoulders. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy breastfeeding but I know my limits. I can handle no more stress. I thought I would feel guilty and maybe a part of me does, but I think Benji would prefer a happy momma. So there you have it. Do I feel like a quitter? Nah. I made a decision that is best for me and Benji. I love my son.

Elmo

Benji loves his Elmo. I think it is because his eyes are as big and beautiful as his.

Little Update

I went for my 6 week postpartum appointment today and everything is good. I am actually 4lbs away from being at my pre-pregnancy weight. I sure don't feel like it though!
I decided to go by Benjamin's doctor on my home to weigh him. I just couldn't wait until Thursday. He had gained some weight, but only 2 oz. I tried so hard not to cry, but I did. The poor nurse didn't know what to do. So she went and got the doctor. I told him I would like to start supplementing. He was against it, but understood. So I am only supplementing twice a day and only 1-3 ounces and only after I breast feed. I had him check his head to see if it had gotten any bigger and it had which it good. This means he does not have failure to thrive. His blood work it due to be back tomorrow, this will rule out rare diseases that could be causing him not to gain weight. John gets to feed Benjamin tonight for the first time and he is so excited, that's one good thing about us supplementing.
I hope everyone is having a good week!

Another trip to the lab...

I get a phone call today from a number I didn't recognize so I let it go to voicemail. I listen to it and it is Benjamin's doctor asking me to call him back on his cell phone. I have come to realize when a doctor calls himself, on his own cell phone, it isn't usually good news. He said he began to get concerned last night and consulted another colleage of his who specializes in "sick babies". He has decided he wants Benajmin to come into the lab today to have more blood drawn. I would rather have a needle stuck in my eye than to have Benjamin have more blood drawn. We go to the lab. I am much pushier this time than last. I let them know I need a hot pack for his foot and I want it to stay on longer than just a few minutes. One prick of the foot...squeeze for 2 hours (not really that long, but it felt like it). Phlebotomist: "That wasn't a good prick, I will have try again." I barely refrain from grabbing a needle and jabbing it in her foot repeatedly. Seriously, you see a little baby come in, at least get the best phlebotomist to draw blood. The second stick was good.
His bilirubin came back slightly elevated over normal, a 7, which is fine, 1-6 is considered in normal range. His other test will come back sometime next week. I posted on www.kellymom.com the issues Benjamin has been having and I received a very encouraging post back. This lady had been having the no weight gain issue and she figured out she had a lot of foremilk (lowfat) and the baby wasn't getting enough hindmilk (high fat, high calorie). So she gave me a few ideas to try. I really feel like this could fix it. So pray, pray, pray for hindmilk consumption.
I am feeling better since the last post. Thanks for the prayers and comments.

Failure

I just feel so defeated and like I am failing at the very basics of being a mother. We went back to the pediatrician and Benjamin has gained nothing. NOTHING, not even an ounce. He is not even back up to his birth weight and he will be 6 weeks next Tuesday. My milk is definetly in, he eats every 2-3 hours with an occasional 4 hour span through the night, he has normal wet and bowel movement diapers, developmentally he is right on target and is even a little ahead (he started rolling over at 4 weeks). The doctor is not worried, yet. We go back in 10 days to check to see if he has gained any weight, if not we will start running test then. One part of me wants to quit breastfeeding, another part of me knows that my milk is the best thing for Benjamin, another part of me wants to tell the doctor to run test now and not wait. The biggest part of me wants to just curl up and cry. I just don't know what to do. Keep Benjamin in your prayers. Maybe me too, for my sanity.

Family Picture Time!!

We had our first family pictures taken. It went much smoother than I thought it would, but it was exhausting.

Abram Derrick

Benjamin and I had the pleasure of being there for the birth of his new cousin Abram, also known as Lusty Boy #3, also known as Tank. I will let Jenny give everyone details, but it was quite the birth.

1 Month Old

No, he's not suprised in the second picture, he just has big, beautiful eyes : ) It feels likes longer than a month and also just like yesterday when I found out I was pregnant. I love my son, I love my husband. I am so thankful for the life God has blessed me with.

Little Dimple

Yes, I sat with the camera pointed at Benjamin for 30 minutes to get a picture of him smiling, but I got it. What else do I have to do?

True Blue Momma

Benjamin urinated on me and I was too tired to change my shirt. I slept in it and didn't think twice about it. I guess that makes me a true blue momma. I hope you enjoy the pictures.

Memories and Odd Facts

As you all know Benjamin is in the hospital. He will hopefully be going home Thursday or Friday. So, while I wait I thought I would complete the tag from Jessica and combine it with Shelly's blog on memories.

Odd Facts:

1. I look at John's ears and cannot keep from touching and picking at them. I know it drives him crazy and I really do try to keep from doing it, but I can't. I also pick at my own ears until they bleed.

2. When I am in a drive thru I must keep plenty of space between the car in front out me and my car, just in case someone try to car jack me. I also have the same rule for the intersection at Harvard and I-44.

3. When I practice singing I use a hair brush as a microphone.

4.I am a people pleaser, who does not like to please people.

5. What atracted me to John was his akwardness and the fact that he was not suave. He swept me off my feet by being John.

Favorite Memories

1. Lake Eufala, everything about it. Playing with "little people" in the creek, sleeping in the pop-up with no AC, playing 21-31, my favorite memory of Eufala was seeing my dad so happy.

2. Going to Grandma and Papa's with my brother and sister and my cousins, laying in the bed scratching each other's backs and then switching sides, then Grandma coming in the room telling us to be quiet and go to sleep.

3. Friday nights with my Mom and Dad, Star Trek and steaks.

4. Telling John I was pregnant.

5. Seeing John's face the first time he saw Benjamin.

Well, now I am getting teary eyed, so I better stop there.

Benjamin's Birthday

I was put into the hospital due to high blood pressure on Monday. The doctor decided to induce. They put gel on my cervix to soften it. I began having contractions and cramps, totally unexpected. I thought they would put the gel in, I would take a sleeping pill, and begin the petocin drip at 5 am. Wrong, I went into active labor, with constant, no break contractions. They took the "gel" pill out 2 hours later, and the contractions continued all night. I finally fell asleep around 3:30-4:00 and was awoken at 5 am for the petocin. Let real labor begin! I was dialated to a two and at 8 am they broke my water...weird stuff. I was a three, with good strong contractions. I requested my epidural, or as I llike to call it a God sent special sauce. The actual epidural was nothing, so any preggers who are nervous about that, don't be seriously. I barely even felt it. So around 11am, they check and I am only a 4...are you kidding me? So hurry up and wait, issues with the epidural, only took on one side issue resolved, so quickly. Its like the anestheseologist has wings. Ok, so around 1 pm, dialated to a 7...good stuff, moving right along, then I realized I am scared to death. I need my mom. Mom comes, calms me down...moms are so good at that. They come in about an hour later..I am a ten, and ready to push. After a few fearful tears, I go into Go Mode. John assumes his position as coach. He was so funny and so cute. He is very, very queazy around blood and we had decided he would just keep eye contact with me and not cut the cord. He changed his mind. I was in Go Mode, he was in Dad Mode. Here is his coaching style, " 1, 2, 3, ....9, 10, again, you can do this Amy, and 1, 2, 3....9, 10 and one more time..." I started laughing at one point, he was straining his voice and I realized he was pushing along with me. In the meantime, John has decided he will be cutting the cord and he will watch. So he saw little Benjamin's head come out, John's face was breathtaking and the tears rolling down his face were priceless. Delivery complete, Benj had swallowed amniotic fluid so I didn't get to hold him for 45 minutes, which was really hard, but necessary. I nursed immediatley he look at me immediatley, and I fell instantly head over heels in love with him. Benjamin was worth every ache and pain, sleepless nights, hemrroids, etc. So everything is well in the household. I am currently going on about 3 hours of sleep in the last 3-4 days combined, so excuse the gramatical errors.

Longest Month of My LIFE

and its only the sixth. I consider myself a patient person, but come on. I love how all the books say the baby will make smaller movements because they are runnig out of room, apparently Benjamin did not read these books. My dad always said I was like a bull in a china cabinet. I belive my son is taking after his mommy. Unfortunatly for my uterus it is the china cabinet and my son is a giant bull. (He will probably only be six pounds and 18 inches long, but let me tell you, he feels huge to me.) He has officially droped per the doctor, her words exactly..."OH! His head it just right there." I could have told you that without the pelvic exam. My bladder has been announcing it with a bull horn.
Well, I guess let the waiting game continue, I don't really have much say so anways!

Baby Shower

My Family and Friend shower was awesome. I could not believe how many people came! The hostesses did an awesome job. The food, decorations, game, and organization made everything flow so smoothly! Benjamin received everything he needed and wanted times ten, except for his carseat/stroller combo which we were planning on getting ourselves anyways! I can't wait to see Benjamin in all his new clothes, playing with his new toys, and using everything that everyone bought. Thank you to everyone!
So, the third trimester, not really a big fan. I am tired, I can't get comfortable, I get leg cramps, and it feels as if Benjamin is trying to come out of my belly button sometimes. I can no longer get out of the bathtub by myself. John gets the pleasure of watching me look like a beached whale flopping around trying to get in a position where he can hoist me out. Benjamin is already teaching me humility. Either that or he is making me humiliated. Everyday I think I am going into labor. Was that another contaction? Did my water just break? Where's my books, I must check. Yeah, I know I still have over 4 weeks.

Church Shower and My Weekend

I had my church shower last Wednesday. We were overwhlemed with gifts! We got tons of clothes and blankets. He will surely never be naked or cold! The cake was awesome. Of course anything with sugar in it taste awesome to me! It was fun to watch John's facial expressions when I opened the gifts. He was getting so excited, ecspecially if anything had "Daddy" or "sports" on it.
John had to unexpectedly work out of town this weekend, but don't worry I didn't get lonely. I had offered to watch Jenny and Brian's boys so Jenny could go visit Brian while he was in Florida. I know that is can be hard to be away from your husband, and I have been somewhat bored, so I thought perfect timing. I had a blast with the boys. I am not saying they were perfect or I was perfect, but I did really enjoy them. If you take time to watch children they can really teach you a lot. There is no rushing in a child's world, even when it is cold outside. Walking down three steps, isn't just taking three steps. Its jumping off the side, not landing right, so you must do it again and this time add a twist while you are in the air. A two second task now takes 5 minutes. They really do make you stop and smell the roses.

I hope everyone is having a great week!

Birthing Class

BIRTHING CLASS.........................................$65.00


HOSPITAL FEES FOR LABOR AND DELIVERY.....$2500


SEEING MY HUSBAND PREGNANT....................PRICELESS

8 Weeks and Counting...

I can't beleive how fast my pregnancy has gone by. I knew by telling people so early it would drag by, but it really hasn't. I went to the doctor today for my 32 week check up and everything looks good. I am still measuring big (big baby), my blood pressure is good, his heart rate is good ,and he is in birthing position. Let the countdown begin! This weekend John and I have our Birthing Class. As you can imagine John is thrilled. I signed up for breast feeding classes too, which I couldn't talk John into going, so good ole Momma is going with me. We have our church shower Wednesday which is exciting and our family/friends shower on the 19th. Our January is getting full! This is a good thing though, I am not working (outside the home, believe me I am still working in the house) or going to school this semester. I am having a hard time adjusting without a set schedule.

Oh! I made the honor role! I never thought at 26 years of age I would still get excited about making the honor role. This semester was hard, between morning sickness and the challenging classes, I can honestly say I worked hard and earned my grades.

Hope everyone is doing well, and hope to see everyone at Benjamin's shower!

Let there be light...

And on the tenth day God said let there be light. John and I were without power for ten days, actually I was. John had no power for 4 days. He was in Vegas (on business) for two weeks. On the first day without power everyone called to see how I was. People really worry about you when you are pregnant and by yourself! John's cousin brought by a roasted chicken for me, food is very, very important to the LeMasters. John called to tell me his brother was on the way to the house to bring me firewood. I asked if he could just take me to Checotah to my in-laws. I had been without power for 12 hours, already felt a little crazy, very lonely, and cold...I knew I wouldn't last much longer. So, I stayed in Checotah until the follwing Monday. I loved Checotah. Everthing was slow paced, my in-laws spoiled me with days of shopping, wonderful food, movies, and pretty much anything my heart desired (which basically was just a lot of sweets). John flew in the following Sunday and we left fot Tulsa the next day for a doctors appointment and to check on the house. We lost a ton of limbs, giant limbs, our front porch awning was ripped off, we had punctures in our siding, some damage to the privacy fence, our shed in the back was crunched, and the wires were detatched from our house. "It could have been worse," is what I kept telling John (although I was biting my cheek to keep the tears from falling, and honestly it could have been worse, but all I can/could think off is preparing my home , our lives for our baby.) Let's see, Monday and Tuesday we stayed at my parents house so we could work on the house during the day and sleep there at night. Wednesday afternoon, I was taking a break from raking (John was at the bank) and a PSO truck drove by, I waved and smiled, he stopped, put it in reverse, and asked if I had power. "Nope." I must have looked pathetic, 30 weeks pregnant, no make-up, dirty, and worn out from raking and picking up what wood I could. Within 15 minutes we had lights! Priaise God! Glory Hallelujah! I cried.
Back to the doctor's appintment. I only have 10 weeks left. I am healthy, text book on weight gain, blood pressure, etc. He measured my belly, which he said is measuring big...YES! Moving up the due date...wrong, He is just a big boy. Oh, well, big healthy boy to take care of his momma.

I hope everyone is doing well!

Growing Up and Holidays

With each passing year the Holiday season keeps changing. The child inside of me misses the Thanksgivng where everyone came to my parent's house. It was mass chaos, too many people in a small area, there was wasted food, wasted pop, belly aches from eating too much food, loud talkers, and football on the TV blaring. But all my brothers and sisters were there, all my family was there, I didn't realize it at the time, but they are what made my Thanksgiving so great. I know my family is not perfect and I am sure there was drama at each holiday, but for some reason I don't remember those things.
We now have to make specific times for family to "fit" everyone in. We no longer make time for the ones we love, we schedule time. My holidays consist of watching the clock and watching people's feelings. I miss the Christmas with Jody in his stocking hat, Marla slowly moving around, barely awake, Jenny running into my room, "You have to see what Santa brought you", and Jonathan soon to follow with stocking in hand. I can remember one Christmas present I received, the trampoline. But I have numerous memories of Christmas time with my family that I wouldn't trade for a million presents. The greatest present I received as a child was being born in to the Richardson/Hendricks family.
I do enjoy my holidays now too, they are just changing. I have two of everything; now my little family is making thier own traditions, but it is hard letting go of past traditions. I love my family, all of my family, and I hope we continue to grow.

Happy Holidays

Last Tuesday night I got a call from my mother in law asking if I would be able to sing at a funeral Friday. A friend of her's husband had died and she had heard me sing at Pat's father's funeral and wanted me to sing at her husband's funeral. I was really flattered but I had Chemistry on Friday. I figured out a way to leave chemistry lecture early and come back a little late to chemistry lab and still be able to sing at the funeral. I spent a good part of the day on Wednesday finding the requested music. I really dislike singing to tracks, but I didn't know if they would have an accompanist or not. By the end of the day I was freaking out because I couldn't find a track for one of the songs they wanted, O Danny Boy--yes, not the typical funeral song, but it was the mans favorite song and honestly a song I really like. I finally was able to find it, but it was in a book and I had to buy the CD to go along with it. I ended up spending a little over $40 on music. Yikes. But I was still really honored that someone outside the family, someone I didn't even know, wanted me to sing! Did I mention this was a Catholic funeral? Wednesday night, three music stores later, I get a call from the music director from the church where the funeral was to be held. A few Catholic rules you may be unaware of, (1) You are to sing to live music, no tracks allowed.(I was able to take all the music back at least) (2) They are picky about what songs are allowed to be sung, NO Danny Boy allowed. (3) The music director must sing th majority of the music (she has a contract). Interesting. I am to meet with the accompanist that they provide, 45 minutes before the funeral and I will be singing Amazing Grace and In the Garden. WHAT! I am a perfectionist, I like to practice days in advance. Friday, I wake up a little nervous, which is strange for me, usually the day that I am to sing, I eat pepto and imodium like it is candy. I pray I don't get nervous, that the songs are comforting to the family, and that my voice is comforting as well. I stand up to sing, no nerves, no shaky voice, no sweaty, cold hands, and best of all no nervous stomach cramps. The power of God is an amazing thing. He truly rewarded me in the best way, for doing his will and using my gift to show God's comfort and empathy during trying times.
Today, I go to get the mail and there is a Thank You card from the woman. I open it up and a $100 check falls out. Are you kidding me?!? I get paid for it too!

Exhausting Weekend

John's parents came down Saturday to help John and I move furniture around. We finally got doors up on our master bedroom. We decided to use the doors I found in the attic, which were origianl to the house and it was a great decision. The look really good! We now have a nursey. It looks enormous! All we have in there is Benjamin's crib and a Norman Rockwell painting of baseball game of course. The house seems so much more functional now. Just a few additional things we did this weekend, cleaned out two closets, cleaned all the carpet in the house, changed shower heads, CLEANED, painted, hung cabinet doors, moved furniture, laundered all the bedding in the house, and stared at Benjamin's crib coming to the realization that in 18 short weeks there will lay a little perfect baby boy. I am not for sure if my father in law will ever come in town for a visit again, I really put him to work! It was really nice to have them here, what would have taken John and I days to accomplish took only 5 hours. I am starting my next "to-do" list, so watch out Mom and Dad!
School is going well. I am becoming more and more abscentminded which is frustrating. I am glad I am taking next semester off. Choir, although very challening, is really coming together. Our first performance is November the 18th for Thanksgiving, and our next is for Christmas December 16--mark your calendars, both are during the AM service.
My camera is broken so, no new pictures. I am getting rounder by the day and am really enjoying the pregnancy now. No morning sickness...YEAH!

I hope everyone is doing well, I am off to Anatomy!

Schedules for the Family Reunion

Mom has been stressed out so I offered to make a food list for the family reunion next weekend. I tried to make it as easy as possible for everyone.

Friday Night--Hot Dogs and Frito Chili Pie

Every family brings their own dogs, buns, and drinks.
Amy--chili
Mom--shredded cheese
Jessica--diced onions
Jenny--two bags of Fritos

Saturday Morning--BREAKFAST!

Mom--biscuits
Jessica--two dozen eggs
Amy--gravy and 2 lbs of sausage
Jenny--2 lbs of baccon

Saturday Night--Hamburgers

Every family brings there own patties, buns, and drinks.
Amy-baked beans
Jessica--potato salad
Jenny--three bags of chips
Mom--sliced tomatoes, onions, and dip

Friday and Saturday Night--DESSERT! SMORES!

Jessica--marshmellows
Jenny--chocolate
Amy--graham crackers

If you can think of anything I have forgotten, something you would like to add, or anything else, just let me know. Also, I didn't know if we all wanted to bring our own paper plates and untensils, or if we wanted to all pitch in and share. Keep in mind when purchasing food it will be for 8 adults and 5 kids. I thought it would be easiest if every family did there own lunches since our breakfast it so late. Let me know if you think the quanities are big enough. And, mom will have condiments.

I know Mom gets stressed out when it comes to cleaning up after each meal. She frightens me when she turns into Sybil, so I took the liberty of making a cleaning schedule as well.

Friday Night

Jenny--clean dishes
Brian--dry dishes
Kids--pick up trash with Papa Joe's help
Amy/John--gather dishes
Mom--put dishes/food up

Saturday Morning

Jessica--clean dishes
Jonathan--dry dishes
Kids--pick up trash with Papa Joe's help
Jenny/Brain--gather dishes
Mom--put dishes/food up

Saturday Night

Amy--clean dishes
John--dry dishes
Kids--pick up trash with Papa Joe's help
Jonathan/Jessica--gather all dishes
Mom--put food dishes up

I hope this helps everyone and isn't annoying. Let me know if I have forgotten anything!

And the Baby is...

I went to the doctor today for my 3rd appointment. I have only gained 5 lbs (a total of 8 lbs), which is great. My blood pressure is normal and the baby's heart rate is 145. Oh, did I mention its a BOY!!! We had a suprise ultrasound. My doctor said it is his favorite part of the job. So, I can stop saying baby and say, Benjamin Price LeMasters.

John has started a T-ball league for 2012 for anyone ready to sign there child up : )

Changes are coming...

I am officially the choir director for Sandusky Avenue Christian Church. For now the position will be a volunteer position, but they plan on making it a paid position in 2008. I was a little nervous about working at the hospital, going to school full time, a new baby on the way, and taking a voluteer position. I told John about my hesitation and my wonderful husband said, "If this is what you want to do, I think you should quit your job." It was like music to my ears.
School is going well, very challenging, and time consuming, but interesting.
John got a promotion at work, which he is adjusting too slowly, but is excited about. I tell him he is my old man; he is not one for change.
I am now 17 weeks pregnant and only had one bout of morning sickness this week! Glory Hallelujah! I can feel the baby move now, which made 11 weeks of vomitting everday well worth it. John and I will be finding out the baby's gender soon. We can't wait!

Life is Good!

Pray, Pray, Pray for Me!

I received an e-mail from John and I's preacher a few days ago. He asked if I would like to sit down informally and discuss me taking a position at the Church as the Choir Director. Are you kidding me!?! That would be awesome! We are to meet sometime next week to discuss the ins and outs. So please pray that this position is perfect for John and I and if it isn't, I won't be devastated. I will let everyone know when I know more details.

Appointment #2

John and I went to our second OB appointment today. Everything looks good. I have gained three pounds, which is good considering how much I have been vomitting. We got to hear the baby's heart beat, 165 beats per minute. My blood pressure is good and that pretty much sums up the appointment, short and sweet.
School started this week. I am taking Chemistry, Anatomy and Nutrition. I am really excited about these classes. They will be challenging, but they bring me that much closer to the nursing program.

I hope everyone is doing well!

John calls it OUR stomach...

Yes, I am showing. And yes, I am only 12 weeks.

Sad Story

Working in the ICU has really been an expirience. The stories that come through there are more bizarre than the story lines in Grey's Anatomy and ER; which leads me to my sad story.
We had an mid-elderly lady be admitted to the ICU from the ER on Friday while I was working. She was a "no report" patient, which means we are not allowed to tell anyone, including family how she is doing or even confirm that she is there. This is the patients decision or power of attorneys decision. Before she came to the ICU we had a young man come and ask if she was there, all I could say is that we do not have a patient by that name. When she arrived to ICU I got her chart to do orders and noticed she was an intentional overdose of morphine. Come to find out her husband had been in the ICU the folowing week and had passed away. Today was his funeral. After the funeral the family informed her she would be going to a nursing home. The young man that had come by earlier was one of her grandchildren. The grandchildren were now cleaning out their grandparent's house of things they thought she no longer needed. I guess he had come by to see how much time he had. She had five daughters and not one of them offered to house her or take care of her instead of moving her into a nursing home. I do understand many time there are underlying issues, but this just broke my heart. I hope I am never put in a situation where I am forced to put my parents or grandparents or any family member in a nursing home. Hopefully by becoming a nurse I will always be abe to take care of the ones I love.

One of my favorite recipes...

I wanted to share one of my favorite recipes. I hope you all enjoy.


INGREDIENTS
2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1/2 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
2 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth
1 cup frozen corn kernels (I use fresh corn on the cob and boil it first.)
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (I use a 1 tsp)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup chunky salsa
8 ounces corn tortilla chips
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)



DIRECTIONS
In a large pot over medium heat, saute the chicken in the oil for 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cumin and mix well. Then add the broth, corn, onion, chili powder, lemon juice and salsa. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20 to 30 minutes.
Break up some tortilla chips into individual bowls and pour soup over chips. Top with the Monterey Jack cheese and a little sour cream.

**I boil the chichen instead of pan frying it. It is much easier, and I think makes the chicken juicier. When it is done, I pull it apart in small strips and follow the recipe from there.

First Doctors Appointment

John and I had our first doctors appointment on Wednesday morning. Before leaving the house John had the priveledge of holding my hair back as I vomitted. We usually do not get up at the same time, so this was his first to see it in person. Did I mention he was brushing his teeth while I was leaning over the toilet? When we went back to the exam room they asked tons of questions and I shot a few back to them. Then came the pelvic exam. As much as I tried to prepare John for this, there really isn't enough preparation in the world to watch certain "tools" enter your wife. I looked healthy and everything looked great. So next was the ultrasound. I was not prepared for a transvaginal ultrasound, but apparently abdominal ultrasounds create too much electronic waves for such a tiny baby. When we first saw the baby and it's tiny heart beating was the most surreal moment in my life. It was so quiet in the room, I could feel tears fill my eyes, then I hear John say, "there really is something in there." Which was strange, it was the same thing I was thinking! We could see the babies little arm and leg buds, its head, and little body.
When we left doctor John immediatley started calling people, pacing back and forth, and holding on to the ultrasound pictures like they were the baby. He is going to be a wonderful father. Seeing John as a proud father-to-be has made my love for him grow even stronger.
I had my fianls for summer school on Wednesday too. I think I did well in the class and am so glad it is over. I am enrolled for school in the fall. I changed some of my classes around due to finances. I am taking Anatomy, Chemistry, and Nutrition. I will apply for the nursing program at Rogers State next fall. I am two classes shy of having every prerequisites filled for their nursing program. I am torn if I want to try and a least take one class next spring. 9 months pregnant, newborn, and microbiology or physiology, I do not know...that might be too much.


I almost forgot, The Due Date is........February 29th, a leap year baby!

Our First Doctors Appointment

Morning Sickness Last All Day!?!

I am so nauseated and with each week it seems to intensify. I was excused from class today after getting up for the fourth time to run to the bathroom. I was not soaking much information in anyways. I went home and slept till about 2 in the afternoon. I think I over did it this past week. I had studied for two test, gone to class for twelve hours, worked 38 hours at the hospital, and of course my normal jobs around the house. I never knew how exhausting it is too be pregnant, and not doing things myself is not my style at all. I would rather cut off my finger than ask for help, then I normally feel guilty for not doing it myself. BUT, I am starting to realize eveything I do to my body, not only affects me, but the baby too. SO, I am trying to slow down, which I know must frustrate John, which of course makes me feel bad. AND then to top it off, I seem to be surrounded by super women who apparently did 90 hours a week at work, won the Nobel Prize, and found the cure to AIDS all while being pregnant and keeping a perfectly clean house. I hate women like this, well maybe hate is too strong of a word, how about strongly dislike. I am not that woman, and God did not supply me with that much energy. As you can tell the hormones have kicked in : )
Our first appointment is in one week and 2 days. I am so excited. We will frist see the OB at 8:15, then have an ultrasound at 9:15. Our vacation will be the week to follow. I don't think John and I have spent an entire week together since our honeymoon!

I hope everyone is doing well!

I think everyone already knows....

That I am PREGNANT!! In case you can't tell I am very excited and very suprised. I am barely pregnant (I just found out Monday) and was hesistant on telling everyone until I was further along, but I just couldn't wait. I couldn't even wait for John to get home from work. I called him at work!! After multiple stammers and studders and telling ME congratulations, he ended with, "Well, I guess I am going to be a Daddy." Definetley, so far, my favorite words to come out of his mouth.
I went off birth control in May (yes only a month ago) and John and I were going to officially start "trying" in August. God had different plans, and I believe his are better!
My first appointment is July 25th, right before John and I's vacations.

Keep us in your prayers that we will have a healthy baby and that I will have a smooth pregnancy. (That still sounds weird!)

My Birthday Weekend

My birthday weekend began Friday evening after work. (I pushed for birthday week and month, but John wasn't having it this year.) We went to Carrabas (sp?), one of my favorite restaurants. I always get the same thing, Chicken Bryan and John got the Veal. I had eaten about three-fouths of the chicken and the last bite I had taken just didn't taste right. I looked down and saw raw chicken. I immediately felt nauseas. All I could think of is I am going to get salmanila (sp?) poisoning on my birthday. I was hesitant to tell the waiter, but I did. I believe he was more upset than me. Our dinner was paid for and my stomach didn't get too upset.
Saturday morning I slept in and John went to work early for a few hours and got his hair cut. For my birthyday present John took me shopping. I was hesitant to accept. John is generally not that fun to go shopping with. He acts like we are on a serious mission. He has a go and conquer attitude. I like to walk around, people watch, and go in every store. He lasted for four hours! I was very impressed. He hardly complained at all. We went to Outback for dinner (I promise we usually never eat out, but I just couldn't cook on my birthday weekend!) and went to the movies afterwards. We saw Knocked Up. Funny, funny movie. The language was awful, it took away from the movie. It could have made a sailor blush. Despite that, I don't think I have ever laughed that hard at a movie.
Sunday we went to church, then met my parents, grandparents, Lita, and Blake, Shelly, and Wilder at Mazzios. Grandma made me a cobbler with EXTRA crust, my favorite. It was delicious. I went to Garden Ridge when we got home (I let John sit out on this one) and got a few more frames. We had hamburgers with home grown tomatoes, onions, and corn for dinner.
It has been a great birthday. I never realize how much I miss John when he gone until I get to spend an entire day with him. I am a lucky lady.
Thank you for giving me a special Birthday.

I lost my keys.

Yesterday morning I woke up early so I could get to school early to put a little last minute studying in before the test. I get completely ready, have my book bag on my back, then I think I better make the bed so when John gets home from Kentucky he can take a nap. I make the bed, go to grab my keys off the key hook, and nothing. AHHHH!! I go to all the usuall places I may have laid my keys, couch cushions, kitchen table, mantle, and ottoman. Nothing. So, I try all the unusual places, refrigerator, freezer, bathroom, closet, under the couch, washing machine...still nothing. At this point its 8:10, and there is no way I am making class at 8:30. I call a girl in class to let her know whats going on and to please pass in on to the teacher. Then John calls, who happens to have the other set of keys, in Dallas. He wont be home until close to 1100. So I wait, lab starts at 1220 so I can at least make it to that. Later that night John went to bed early and what does he find underneath his pillow? My KEYS.

I am turning into my mother.

Weekend

First, John is home. Yeah! This week seemed extrmeley long for both of us. He is home until Saturday, but will be back Monday. He is growing out a mustache for his "Guys Weekend" in July. There theme is mustaches. Gotta love John's friends. I enrolled for the fall semester this weekend. My schedule consists of Anatomy, Chemistry, and Sociology. This is 11 hours, so I need one more class to be considered full time. I would like to take an easy relaxing class, possibley a Phys Ed class.
The summer semester is going well. I have my first test Wednesday, and I feel fairly confident about it.

I know short, and sweet, but at least I am updating more frequently!

I hope everyone is doing well!

Work, School, and Travel

Someone, no names...Lita, gave me a gentle reminder that maybe its time to write a new blog.

Summer school started Monday and I must say this go around I think I will like Biology. This teacher is so interesting and overall just a cool guy. There is no comparison between he and the she devil I attempted to take it from last semester. I had no idea a teacher could have such an impact on a class. I thought Biology was Biology and all teachers want you to succeed. I was wrong. The books are even different! Which is somewhat bad, I had to buy two new books, which I was not expecting to spend $200 more. I tried to sell back my last book back and they do not need anymore. So if anyone needs a Biology book from hell, just let me know. I believe an A in this class is feesible, which is very exciting!

Work is going well. At first it was very stressful and I was concerned if I had made the right decision. Everything is coming together now, and is making sense now. I only thought my other jobs were fast paced. I had no idea! I am glad I took medical terminology last semester, if not I would be hurtin'. The twelve hour shifts are becoming not as shocking to my body. I actually like the twelve hours now.

John's 10 year reunion was last weekend. He really enjoyed it and was thankful I forced him to go. For me it was funny to see how some people had changed physically and others looked exactly the same, clothes and all.

John had been gone basically the whole month of May and is gone this week and every weekend untl my birthday, so its been a lonely month. John and I's one year anniversary is coming up quickly, I can't believe is has already been a year!

I hope everyone is doing well, I will try to blog more!

What's Going On

Here are a few updates since I last blogged.

I got a new job. I will be working at the ICCU at St Johns as a Unit Clerk. I am really excited and think I will learn a lot before entering the nursing program.

I took my last two finals today. I had the 2nd highest test score in Psychology and think I did pretty well in my government class. In Medical Terminology I got an 88% and I am still waiting for my results in my english class.

John is in Kentucky until next Sunday for the Kentucky Derby. The one year I deicide not to go and the Queen of England will be there.

John and I have planned our summer vacation. We are going to Lido Beach Resort in Florida. It is a little island off of Sarasota. I am so excited! We were able to fly free with John's frequent flyer miles and get a free rental car through John's work. We are going July 30 thru Aug 4.

I start summer school June 4, so I have the month of May off school.

Dayton is doing great, you would think he was born with only 3 legs. We went to the lake last weekend and he went straight to the water and swam and not in circles how John had anticipated.

That is all I know for now! Talk to you all soon!