Notes from Mom

I feel like I have been so out of the loop lately. I just looked at our blog for the first time in a little while and am so pleased that you can see our housing updates!

Anna Kate and I spent the time while Jonathan was away at my parents' house in Austin. We went shopping, played with Bailey (their dog), and got to see my grandparents in town from Houston. Anna Kate did great sleeping in her new Pack N Play and adjusted to her new surroundings quickly.

Anna with her Pyne Grandparents 

Since we have been home in Waco, we got to visit with the Lairs, Robin and Jon (Jonathan's sister and her boyfriend), and my parents as they were in town for Anna Kate's dedication at church today. She looked so cute in her pretty white dress and slept peacefully through the entire service...what she does best!

Trying on the family heirloom christening dress... 

Anna dedicated to the Lord 

This week we will head to Amarillo on Southwest Airlines for Thanksgiving. Anna Kate is thrilled to have her first plane ride and possibly see her first snow! As for me, I am growing more and more confident in my role as mom. I can usually tell from her cry what she needs and have become proficient in doing most tasks one handed while I hold her. My arms are getting stronger each day as I carry her baby seat and take her stroller in and out of the trunk. What a workout! I cannot believe it has only been three weeks, as I feel like I have learned about six months' worth of things.

Our family at the end of an exciting day 

At the end of the day, I know God is teaching me so much as I rely on Him and trust Him for my precious daughter. I am thankful for the opportunity to see more of Him every day.

We've got a place!

We are so thankful to say that we have a home in San Diego!  We are so thankful that not only is it a cute house in a great neighborhood, but it is also for a very reasonable rent. Jonathan found this house about a month ago on the internet.  He called the owner last Monday to set up an appointment only to find out that it had already been leased.  The owner called Jonathan back on Friday to let him know that the lease fell through.  This was great news because all the other homes Jonathan had looked at were very expensive and in awful shape!  Needless to say, after walking in the door we just knew the place was for us!Thank you so much for praying!

Let the House Hunt Begin...

Tomorrow, I'll be heading off to San Diego for several days in search for a house for us and a single teammate that is going to live with us.  Honestly, I'm a little bit nervous about how it is all going to go.  I've set up several appointments with different property owners and have many things in place.  It will be my first time back to San Diego since this past January when we first decided to move.

Finding the right house is a really big deal to us because not only is it going to be the place where we are going to live, but it will also set us around people that we will interact with regularly and hopefully get to love on.

Would you please pray with us that we will find the right house at the right price and that we would both just "know" that it is the right place?

Below is a 2 minute video that paints a little bit of the picture of what we are believing for.  Click on the "Vision San Diego" tab for more information. 

 

At home with Anna Kate at 10 days...

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Happy One Week!

Today Anna Kate is one week old! We love having her at home and settling into a new routine. She is pretty good at sleeping at night other than waking up for feedings. During the day, she sits in her bouncy chair, naps, and gets cozy in her mom and dad's arms. She does not enjoy her bath, but she loves getting her hair washed! She is so content as Jonathan rubs her little head with shampoo. We can already tell that she is developing since her birth. She has already regained her birth weight plus some...usually this is a goal for the end of second week. So we know she is a great eater! Jonathan and I are doing good, and working together to get sleep whether it is day or night. Jonathan is such a wonderful husband and dad and I am more and more thankful for him every day. After one week with baby, here are some of my reflections on this time...Epidurals were one of the best inventions ever! Home is so sweet after two days in the hospital. It is such a blessing to have parents who stay with us and jump in to help at a moment's notice. Cuddly baby in your arms is wonderful even at 3am. I love the smell of baby shampoo! It is such a treat to sleep on my stomach after nine months of side time. Jonathan is great at cutting her finger nails, even when I am too nervous to look! We are so thankful to God for our gift of a precious, healthy little girl.

Introducing Anna Kate Lair...

We are delighted to welcome our daughter to the world.

 

Anna Kate

Friday, October 26th | 12:39 PM

7 lbs 14 oz | 18.5 inches

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Christmas Eve...but better!

Jonathan and I went to the doctor today to get a check up of Anna Kate as we finish out this 41st week of pregnancy. The doctor said everything looks good and we are set for our induction tomorrow. It feels like Christmas Eve as we look forward to meeting our baby girl in less than a day! We will go into the hospital at 5:30am and get hooked up to the IV of pitocin. Then we will settle in for a long day of labor. We anticipate her arrival around late afternoon or early evening. I doubt I will get a wink of sleep tonight! Please pray with us that she will be born healthy and happy and that labor would go very smoothly.As I look back on the past 9 months, I am filled with thankfulness at how God has taken care of us in every step. With all our travels this summer and then getting ready to move soon, our lives have been pretty crazy. All the while, God was knitting together this sweet little one inside so perfectly. What a gift she is to us! I am reminded of the verse in James that God is the giver of all good and perfect gifts...and I am so thankful.I was also thinking that my pregnancy has been so enriched by several amazing products on the market. I wish I could mail a package of all of these to every pregnant gal I know. Instead, I will just give you a list of my favorite pregnancy products and strongly encourage you to visit your nearest store to pick these up...

1. Crocs. These comfy shoes have kept my feet cool and happy through summer feet swellings and South American winters. 
2. Gap Maternity khaki pants and shorts. I have worn these probably 5 out of 7 days every week.
3. Burt's Bees Mama Bee Tummy Honey. Keeps the itchies out as skin stretches with baby's growth.
4. TCBY Chocolate yogurt. The employees know us by name! Plus it is 96% fat free though Jonathan always wonders what is in that other 4%.
5. ChickfilA. At any meal, this place serves up some great chicken. During my first trimester chicken aversion, I could still eat at this wonderful restaurant.

Overdue Blues

As I woke up this morning with baby still inside, I realized that I am joining the crowd of many first time moms who go past their due dates. My baby is overdue! Even this phrase is strange to me because I have such a high value in life for being on time. I would rather be early and sit in my car for ten minutes than to arrive late.

 

The only thing that comes to mind with the word overdue is bills and library books. An overdue library book is one you sheepishly bring to the counter and await the glare of the librarian as she states your fine. You have to pay some money and then it probably goes onto your permanent library file. The next time you go in to check out a book, you know there must be some kind of warning that flashes on the computer screen as they scan your card.  Watch out for this one...she is overdue! 

 

In my life, I have only experienced one overdue bill. This was not even my fault as they sent the bill to the wrong address. I can imagine though it is a horrible experience to have to many of these. Some of the results would be them turning off your electricity, water, etc. I always pay bills as soon as they come in the mail. I don't do overdue.  So as you can imagine, it is quite a surprise that we are in the overdue range for baby delivery. This is not my style, but apparently, it is not about me!

I am learning already that our lives are not our own any longer. We are willingly becoming humbled by baby's needs and schedule. Even as I write this, I know the Lord has much to teach me about this. What a journey parenthood will be!  I am so thankful for this little life inside and how she is already teaching us to be more like Jesus. Continue to pray for us as we patiently wait for our little arrival. 

The End is in Sight!

With our due date rapidly approaching this weekend, we are thrilled to know that our baby will absolutely be coming soon! At the doctor this morning, we showed a little bit of progress but pretty much the same...just waiting on some good contractions to start. The good news is that in case Anna Kate decides to stay for a while, we have set an induction date for October 26th. This will be the day after my mom's birthday, so it will be a great celebration weekend. However, we are still expectant for her to come before then. My sister put it well...now she has a deadline so she better get moving.

I am feeling great and sleeping so well. At times, I can forget I am pregnant until someone has to lift me off the couch or I try to roll out of bed on my own. We are beginning to clean out our house in preparation for the move and letting our minds drift to the packing extravaganza that will be taking place post-Thanksgiving. I am constantly amazed at the warm weather still hovering around central Texas. It seems fall is delaying her arrival this year, much like our baby. Our electricity bill this month was the tell-tale sign that I am extremely pregnant and it is unseasonally hot!

Lately, I have been intrigued by the afternoon shows on the Food Network. Starting with Semi Homemade with Sandra Leeand continuing on for southern cooking with Paula Deen, this lineup is a great way to enjoy some rest time after a busy morning. As the show goes on, I think I could really do this...until they pull out some ingredient or appliance that I have not the faintest idea where to obtain. Paula Deen claims there is nothing likebaking biscuits in a cast iron skillet, but I can honestly say I have never seen a cast iron skillet in real life...only in TV land where the ingredients are already magically chopped and measured to perfection. Wouldn't it be nice to cook in a TV show kitchen? For now, I will just stick to my "go-to" meals and be inspired by these lovely ladies on TV.

Reasons You Know You Are 9 Months Pregnant

1. You have outgrown almost all of your maternity clothes.


2. You know the location of every restroom in every store you shop at.


3. You start every phone conversation with...No, we are not in labor.


4. Your due date countdown has reached the single digits.


5. Your husband awakens at your every nighttime bathroom trip to ask...is it time?


6. You need assistance to get yourself off the couch.


7. You have trouble remembering a time when you were not pregnant.


8. Your baby's once gentle kicks have turned into a game of how far can I push my elbow/knee/heel out of your stomach?


9. Your healthy eating ideas have gone out the window...at this point, what's an extra pound or so?


10. Perfect strangers find it absolutely necessary to tell you every detail of their child's birth story.

Almost 39 Weeks...

Cravings

At 39 weeks of pregnancy, I thought I would have reached the end of the cravings. Not that I have had that many weird ones, but I have some very distinctive food choices. Lately, I have had the biggest cravings for chocolate! In the form of cookies, ice cream, or other pastry items, I cannot get enough. Last night, I fell asleep thinking about jumping out of bed to get a brownie that I had made for lifegroup. Though I realize refined sugar and cocoa are not exactly power food for babies, I think this one must love the dark stuff.

My most tempting moment was at the grocery store the other day. I was strolling past the baked goods area and saw the doughnut carousel. I tried to keep walking but those chocolate eclairs were calling both of our names (me and baby). I snagged one for the cart and made it home before chowing down (quite an accomplishment). As I polished off the last of the icing while putting the groceries away, I couldn't help but think...I wonder if this will taste as good when I am not pregnant anymore? Until that day comes, bring on the chocolate!

What we all can learn from the Dallas Cowboys...

After what can only be called an inspiring performance by the Dallas Cowboys last night, I was reflecting on some lessons learned by watching this game. Here is what I think we can all learn from the Dallas Cowboys:

1. Never, never give up. Even when you are down in the last 4 seconds of the game and your only hope is making a field goal, the game is never over until it's over.

2. A positive attitude does make a difference. Last night Tomy Romo threw a number of passes that resulted in interceptions by the other team...4 in the first half alone. But on the sidelines, all you could see were his teammates talking to him, trying to keep him in good spirits. He knew he was doing a bad job, but he kept a positive attitude to the end.

3. We all need a great team. One of the things that bothers me about professional football is that it seems to be more focused on individuals than the actual team. Yes, we hear about the Cowboys, but it is usually about Romo or T.O. When do you hear an advertisement extolling the virtues of that long, braided hair catching guy...not often. However, it is really always up to the team to win, not just the QB or star receiver. Romo recognized this in post game chat when he said we have a great bunch of guys and they pulled me out of the hole. He knew he needed his team.

4. Don't let the other team "ice" you. In my brief football watching career, I have noticed a number of instances where a time out is called right before a final field goal is kicked to intimidate the kicker. However, they call it so late that the kicker has already got the momentum and kicks the ball. So he has to do it all over again! Personal note: I think this is a horrible rule. It is mean spirited and underhanded. I think it should be overturned. But these kickers do not let it faze them. He went right back up there and kicked it again for the final points needed to win the game. Though you may be working with mean spirited people, do not let it faze you. Keep going with what you know is right.

5. Roll with the punches. For those of you on the same learning curve of football as me, you will want to know that "spiking" the ball after a play is not allowed. Even if you have made a spectacular catch and are so excited that it is bubbling up inside you, you must lay the ball down on the field, rather than throwing it down as you jump up and down. Apparently, T.O. made this mistake last night when he caught a great pass. He got a penalty for delaying the game by his excitement. However, on replay, it did not look like a spike at all. It was not as gentle as a lay down could be, but it was not a spike. He was wronged! But instead of making a big deal, he took the penalty and kept playing. I guess in his mind, 5 yards was minimal in comparison to the rest of the game. How many times should we major on the majors and minor on the minors? Like T.O. sometimes we must roll with the punches.I hope you each have had the same takeaways from the game last night.

Remember: it's not necessarily who wins or loses, but how you play the game that counts!

Happy 38 Weeks!

On Friday, we celebrated 38 weeks of Anna Kate's growing inside! We went to ChickfilA to eat breakfast (yummy chicken biscuits) and realized that maybe she did not realize that she does not have to go all the way to 40 weeks. So we had a heart to heart with our little girl and explained that 38 weeks is plenty long enough for her to be inside. Maybe that is all she needed to boost her confidence to enter the outside world.

 My family is in town this weekend, so it would make an extremely convenient time for our baby to arrive. We took a walk around the Bear Trail last night at the urging of my sisters, just in case that is what pushes me over the edge. So today we are hanging out, watching football (yes, I really am that into it), and enjoying the muggy Texas weather (did fall forget to come to the South?)

A New Day...

This is my first post on our blog--which is in a new format if you haven't noticed.  We are doing well, and yes, still awaiting our baby.  Anna Kate, thankfully, is moving right along in her process.  The Dr. told us today a couple of things today that made us feel that her premiere was imminent, including, "I'll be surprised to see you in a couple of weeks" and "well, I'm working tonight".  We are hopeful that it will be soon, but we are also savoring our moments together.  Many have told me that life completely changes when you have a baby.  I'm sure we will soon agree.  I have already decided to myself that I will endeavor to seek and enjoy every moment I have holding our baby because I know she will grow quickly.  I can't wait for her to come, but I know God's timing is best.   In the meantime, we have been planning for San Diego and working on our financial support.  God has been so faithful thus far, and we are hopeful for his complete and continued provision.  I will be going to San Diego in November and we are set to make our move in December.  My, what a busy 4th quarter of '07.

Enjoying My Day

I got a new perspective today as I realized that the next three weeks are my last precious days before mommyhood begins. Rather than rushing this little girl along, I should enjoy her last bit of time in the womb and take advantage of this time before her birth.

During a rough time at work a couple of years ago, my friend and I used to play the "Thankfulness Game" to remember to be thankful for all the ways we are so blessed. So here are the things I am thankful for today...
Sleeping in, Spending long and uninterrupted time with the Lord, Creating heart shaped brownies with a cookie cutter, Cravings of chicken salad, Taking a walk with my husband, Jumping in the car to go to the library with no car seat in tow, and Feelings of little baby moving around in my tummy as she reminds me of her upcoming arrival.

When Anna Kate decides on her birthday, it will be such a fun event. Until then, I am happy and content enjoying my days and being thankful.

Shopping to the Rescue!

Today I woke up on the wrong side of the bed...or wrong side of the hormones-whichever it may be. After making it through to the afternoon with only two instances of bursting into tears, I knew I needed to get out of the house. I jumped in the car with no purposeful destination and wound up in Central Texas Marketplace. Somehow I knew shopping would be key.

As I walked into Old Navy, I made two startling realizations:
1. Soon and very soon I will be wearing regular clothes again (not maternity).
2. After almost a year of sporting the latest from Motherhood Maternity, I have no clue what is in style right now.

I felt like I had been in another country as I looked at all the fall clothes. Yet it made me so excited to think I will be wearing those so soon! To celebrate these findings, I bought a non-maternity shirt (only $4...what a deal!) to wear as soon as this little girl is no longer inside me. Come on, Anna...Mommy wants to go to the Gap!

Another side note is that I found some little packages of toile Kleenexes on clearance. Have you ever even heard of toile Kleenexes? They are so cute, I almost don't want to use them! I came home in such a better mood...shopping to the rescue!

Walking and More Waiting

We will be 37 weeks this Friday...and no baby yet! After our doctor's appointment last Thursday, we felt like the baby could come any day. I am already dialated some and effaced a lot, so we were super hopeful. We cleaned the house like crazy and I packed my bag. At Target, we bought a car seat/stroller combo, so we are ready for baby transportation. But each day comes and goes...with only a few signs of impending labor.

With each contraction, I think...is this is? But then it goes away and we go on with life. Such are the things that fill my day. In the meantime, I am walking every day. I am sure I look quite a sight with my half walk, half waddle and huge tummy! I know I must be dedicated because I have never been this faithful in an exercise routine before! I am also working on creating some very cute baby announcements. I try to recognize each day as precious to spend time with my husband and with friends before my time is occupied with our little girl. However, I can't help but think...this could be Anna Kate's birthday!

Along with mood swings, back aches, and multiple trips to the bathroom at night, my body has changed in so many ways during pregnancy. For one, I think the third trimester has given me a newfound affinity for football! As Jonathan catches up on games, I find myself watching alongside him. I know some of the players on his Fantasy Football team and cheer sincerely when they make a good play. (This has not been the case for Drew Brees with his bummer of five interceptions last night!) So who knows if this football craze will continue post-partum...we can only hope.

The Waiting Game

As I sit here this afternoon, I am reminded of how our life could change at any moment. Today while eating lunch, I felt the strangest pains in my stomach and figured it was just our little girl moving around and trying to get comfortable in her home that keeps getting smaller and smaller as she grows. Then Jonathan took a look and exclaimed that something was definitely happening. We figured it was a contraction and after a couple minutes, it died down without any further to-do.

However, this got me thinking that we really could go into labor anytime. This is exciting, yet challenging as all my plans for the next few weeks are followed by the phrase...unless the baby comes early. You just never know! We will go to the doctor on Thursday so hopefully, we will know more then about whether we will see any action soon.

Until then, we just smile and wait!

Up Close...Almost in Person

Today we had an ultrasound to see baby Anna Kate one last time before we see her in person. She is definitely a girl and currently weighs 5 pounds, 5 ounces. We got to see her little face as she contentedly sucked on her fingers. Her heart is beating strong and her diaphram was moving (preparing for her lungs to start working). After seeing her sweet self, we (only half jokingly) asked the ultrasound lady if she could "accidentally" help the baby come today. But we returned home with baby still inside. Now that we are for sure that she is a she, we can take the tags off the clothes and wash them, so her wardrobe will be ready to wear as soon as she comes. On Friday, I will be 35 weeks, so we are growing closer!

Bassinet Bonanza!

Last week, my fearless husband Jonathan faced the task of putting together our baby's bassinet. Undaunted by those words "some assembly required", he jumped in excitedly with screwdriver in hand. A couple ties, snaps, and direction book consultations later, he put the finishing touches on this cute baby bed. This was only the first of the many changes taking place around our house as we prepare for baby d-day.

Overbooked? Call Us!

Jonathan and I flew to Dallas this weekend for a friend's wedding on Southwest Airlines. We had so much fun at the wedding and loved getting to be in Dallas with Jonathan's sister. I discovered that Ann Taylor stores now carry maternity clothes (amazing!) and Jonathan spent some time checking out the Apple store. During an afternoon snack break, I opened a bag of tortilla chips with peach salsa and found a new favorite snack. It seems Anna Kate loves chips and salsa! Lately, her movements have become so pronounced. Laying on my side, I can see her foot stick out of my stomach as she kicks. The only way to describe it is wild! Rather than growing out more, I am growing to the sides. She is spreading out, which I have heard is common for little girls.

On our way back to Amarillo, we stood in line waiting to board our airplane, when a lady came over the loudspeaker announcing the flight was overbooked. I practically ran to the counter, hoping to get a good deal out of the situation. Jonathan followed and talked it through with the lady and before we knew it, we were on a later flight...with a little extra Southwest money in our pockets. It felt so good to seemingly make money by spending it. It is kind of like finding a really good deal when you are shopping. Yes, you have to buy the item, but you are saving so much! We tried to get bumped off of our next flight, but it was only very full...not overbooked. I have a feeling from now on, we will be asking them to bump us. Maybe we will never have to pay for a flight again...not likely, but you never know.

The Three of Us

Is It Time Yet?

Jonathan and I went to the hospital in Amarillo today to visit some sweet friends who just had a baby. We had such fun with them, but I kept thinking while we were there that I am so ready for our baby to come. We kept joking about what the hospital staff would do if we said...could we have our baby now? Jonathan will have to keep me away from the hospital for the time being because I would love to just settle in and stay until our baby comes :)

In preparation for our baby coming, I ordered a prenatal pilates DVD today. Hopefully, this will keep me in shape until that time. I love pilates and I think this will be a good way to exercise and stretch a little. Does it still work if I can't see my toes when I look down?

Showering Our Baby

On Saturday, we celebrated the soon-to-be arrival of Anna Kate with a baby shower in Jonathan's hometown, Canyon. We were overwhelmed by the love shown to this little girl even before she is born. We oohed and aawed over so many precious pink outfits. With some cowboy boots, little pink tennis shoes, and a corduroy jumper (just to name a few), she will be dressed to the nines from birth. Like mother, like daughter...so they say. We were so blessed to be set up so well for her coming by our sweet friends and family here!

Home Sweet Home

Though you would never know it from our outdated blog updates, we have been home now for almost a month! Our journey home from Peru consisted of four flights which all were delayed due to plane trouble and weather. So around 2am, we rolled into Austin, weary of traveling, but thankful to be home.

We returned to Waco and hit the ground running with staff training, San Diego team training, and doctor's appointments. I passed my glucose test with an A plus (so the doctor says) and Anna Kate is just the right size for her age. After an ultrasound, the doctor determined I am not at risk for preterm labor even though I have been having lots of Braxton-Hicks (practice) contractions. It seems like we are right on track for her on time delivery at the end of October.

I spent a couple of days in Austin with my parents as Jonathan was traveling elsewhere, then we headed to Houston for my sister's wedding. It was so fun to see my relatives from Alabama and celebrate with them. Lauren and Bart's wedding went beautifully and we sent them off to their honeymoon in St. Thomas. We returned to Waco for two days and took off again for a two week trip through the Panhandle.

During this month, we are seeking people to partner with us as we move to San Diego. So in our travels, we are setting up meetings to tell people more about the next season of our lives. And tomorrow, we will have our first baby shower...in Canyon. We look forward to celebrating Anna Kate with our good friends and family here!

A Day at the Slopes

Jonathan & Suzanne at Valle Nevado
Jonathan taking off down a run.
Jonathan and our brave, little car that we nicknamed "Pepe".

Today we took an adventure to the ski slopes at Valle Nevado. Halfway up the mountain, the roads got icy, so these two Texans had to figure out how to get chains on our little car's tires. We are not your typical winter weather goers, therefore, the third time was the charm for us. We made it to the slopes and Jonathan took to the mountain quickly. I stayed in the lodge and enjoyed the warmth and a book. We had such a great time on our mountain adventure! As we left this afternoon, it began to snow. What a perfect day!

Peru and Chile

The past three weeks Jonathan and I have spent in South America. We stayed with a missionary family in a small village in Peru outside Cusco for two and a half weeks. We were with another family that will move to San Diego with us from Waco who are dear friends, so it was fun to share this experience. We got to minister to many people in various villages. Jonathan preached in Spanish just like it was his first language!

Then we began a little trip on our own last Wednesday. We spent a day in Lima, Peru and then took off for Santiago, Chile. We are calling this trip our "babymoon"...our last vacation on our own before the baby comes. We have had a wonderful and exciting time exploring this new city. We rented a little car we affectionately call Pepe and Jonathan has been driving all around with our little stick shift vehicle. I have been doing my best to navigate, but it is not always easy when you don't recognize the names of any streets on the map!

We have been all around Santiago and took a day trip to the coast called Vina del Mar. That was my favorite part so far although it was not exactly beach weather (highs in the 50s). Tomorrow we will hit the slopes for Jonathan to do a little skiing. It has been so nice to be in colder weather, though I know we will be in for a shock when we return to Texas. We fly back to Peru on Tuesday and will return home on Wednesday night.

Baby Anna Kate is growing so much! She has been so active and surprises me often with her big movements. Last Friday I was 28 weeks (aka 6 months), so I have officially started my third trimester. I am so looking forward to the day when this little baby comes. It will be fun to go home and really get her nursery together.

We will post some pictures of our trip when we get home. Until then, we hope you are enjoying your summer! See you soon!

Little Update

I feel like summer is flying by! It seems June just started and here we are approaching July. The past few weeks have been busy ones for us as we spent some time in Austin celebrating my sister's birthday and floating the river. We hosted 18 girls here last weekend for my other sister's bachelorette party. Upon hearing of this party to come, Jonathan left town and went to Dallas to spend some time with friends. We celebrated Jonathan's first Father's Day on Sunday! Anna Kate and I got him a chipping net for him to set up outside. This week we have been preparing for a US church planting conference that Jonathan's office hosts next week in Portland. We head up there on Monday for a week, and are looking forward to escaping the Texas heat even for a bit.

Anna Kate and I went to the doctor today for another checkup. She is 23 weeks and doing great! We got the all clear for our travels next week and then to Peru in two weeks. With a growing belly, this typical stomach sleeper has had a harder time falling asleep at night. My doctor assures me this will only get harder as baby continues to grow! Another development is my rising sense of temperature. I used to be very cold natured, but now get warm so easily. Someone recently described it as being a little incubator. I could not agree more!

That is all from us for now. Please pray for us as we travel to the Northwest next week!

My Kind of Girl

I just know Anna Kate is my kind of girl! Tonight Jonathan and I went to Target to register for all sorts of fun baby items. My sweet husband patiently waded through the car seats, bouncers, and cute pink shoes to make sure we had everything selected. (Plus he got to use the scanner!) Once we got home, I looked online to see if all our items went through. As soon as I started looking at the items, Anna Kate started kicking so hard and repeatedly...more than I have ever felt before. I am pretty sure that she wanted to make sure she ended up with some very cute baby items. I reassured her that I would pick only the best and cutest for her. Now her kicking has subsided and she is peaceful again. I just knew my daughter would love shopping as much as I do :)

Active Little Girl

I felt Anna Kate move! On Friday afternoon, I was laying down taking a rest and I felt something so strongly on my right side. I waited then felt it again. It felt like someone gently pushing on my side...but from the inside. Since then, I have felt her move many times. Usually, it is while I am sitting or laying down. It is so funny to feel her poke or push. I know she will keep getting stronger and bigger, so there will be lots of movement to come. But these first little kicks will always be precious to me!

Weekend in Canyon, Pictures of Anna Kate

The past few days we have been in Jonathan's hometown, Canyon, Texas. It has been great to see good friends and also to celebrate Jonathan's mom's birthday. Here is pregnant Suzanne bringing a very yummy birthday cheesecake for mom's birthday.
Also, another big development is that we are going to name our little girl Anna Kate! We are believing that she will walk out in the very same heritage as Anna from the Bible (see Luke 2:36) who ushered in the coming of the King. Below are a few pictures of Anna Kate:




We are thrilled about having a girl and can't wait to see all that God has in store for her precious life. Thank you, Jesus!

Two Girls in One

Even if I did not know our baby was a girl yet, I would have figured it out today. I am definitely experiencing the emotions of two girls in one. As we were traveling today, I was driving and Jonathan was taking a little nap. I wanted to keep on driving through, but I got so hungry I knew I needed to stop. I passed a couple fruit stands and almost cried because I wanted a peach so badly.

Eventually, we got into a little town, so I pulled into a gas station. I left Jonathan in the car and ran into to grab a snack. The woman in front of me in line was pregnant too and I smiled as she bought Fritos, cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and a burrito (the gross kind under hot lights all day). Obviously, we have not been reading the same books! I purchased my yogurt (sadly, AllSups does not carry organic) and orange juice. I walked out to the car and Jonathan offered to drive so I could eat my yogurt. We climbed in the car and I burst into tears. Jonathan tried to understand what happened and I tried to explain that actually it was nothing. He was so sweet and caring and I just cried and cried. I think it was hunger and emotions rolled into one. Now, I cannot believe I cried over nothing, but at the time, it was so real. Leave it to me to become even more emotional. Our little one will definitely take after her mom on that end!

It's a Girl!

The ultrasound technician gave us the exciting news this morning...it's a girl! Jonathan and I are thrilled to have a little girl and also just to know. Every little finger, toe, and eyelash is in place and we are so thankful that God has given us this sweet gift. After such an exciting morning, we need some rest, but we will post some pictures soon. Thanks for your prayers and support!

One More Day!

Tomorrow we will find out whether our baby is a boy or girl! The anticipation is so big. I feel like knowing the gender will really define more of the person-hood of this baby. Right now, I have to remind myself that there really is a baby in there and I am not just getting randomly fatter. I am also still waiting to feel the baby kick. I thought maybe I felt it this weekend, but it turned out to be growing pains.

So today I am keeping busy as to not think about the doctor's appointment tomorrow. By this time tomorrow, we will know! The bad news about ultrasounds is that you have to drink so much water before you go in, and you cannot go to the bathroom until after the procedure (more than an hour later)! Trust me, this will be a challenge...but well worth it to see every little toe and finger and four chambered heart.

In other news, an angry swarm of bees got loose about 10 blocks from our house yesterday. I saw it on the news and luckily, not in person. It seems that they got aggravated and started stinging everyone in sight. Today they were removed from the area, so no more bees. If we could only say the same for mosquitoes! I read they love biting pregnant women because we have more blood circulating. I can verify this is true as I got more than 10 bites in less than 2 minutes last night. They can spot me from a mile away!

Well check back here tomorrow for our big news...and hopefully a pic or two!

What to Eat While Expecting

I read a book this week called "What to Eat When You are Expecting". The premise of the book was great as it set out some guidelines of what nutrients your baby needs and the foods that are best to get them from. The slightly overwhelming portion was the recommendation that you cut out all sugar from your diet. The sad thing is that in our pantry shelves, sugar lurks everywhere. The whole wheat, lots of fiber cereal that I eat in the morning with strawberries and organic milk holds 10 grams of sugar per serving! Not to mention every white bread product that I love. Checking labels can be informative, but also quite daunting.

Before I completely overhauled my diet, I realized that moderation is the best way to start anything. So I made three changes that I think will prove beneficial for this little one on the way.
1. Wheat germ. This is the kernel of the wheat that is typically removed from most white bread products. I sprinkle it on bread items to bring back that whole wheat goodness. I also added it to a coffee cake that I made yesterday. Jonathan did not even know the difference. I also have gotten other wheat bread products to replace my some of my formerly all white bread.
2. Fruit juice and club soda. I love this combination for a great fruit serving with no caffeine or corn syrup. It tastes like a soda but with lots of 100% fruit juice nutrients.
3. Eggs and low fat cottage cheese. I am attempting to add these in as they are on the book's "shelf of honor". If I can eat one or the other every day, I will be doing well on that end.

So that is my story of nutritional education. Hope it is beneficial for you as well. Also next Friday we will have our ultrasound to discover if our baby is a boy or girl!

Graduation

Way to go, new graduates! May seems to mark the end of school for many people. We celebrated my sister and her fiance's completion of undergrad and graduate school in College Station this weekend.
Here they are cutting their graduation cake...practicing their form for their big day. We got to see lots of relatives from Texas and abroad as well as enjoy the high life of the Bryan/College Station area (namely Double Dave's Pizza and Blue Baker). Catherine, Lauren, and Suzanne in anticipation for the A&M Graduation Night.

The highlight was most likely the actual graduation ceremony. As sweet, prepared people that they are, my parents arrived to the arena 2 hours before the graduation to save seats for our extended family. As last minute, right on time people that we are, we arrived at 7pm as the graduates were walking onto the floor. Sadly, my parents had to fight off hungry seat hunters for our prime spots, so they called us as we pulled up in the parking lot, urging us to run for it. My youngest sister and her boyfriend took off at a brisk pace, but Jonathan and I took off as the power walkers we are through the parking lot. About halfway there, my sister started yelling...Go, Preggers, go! And her boyfriend urged her to hurry up, noting...the pregnant one is beating us! Eventually, we made it into the coveted seats and settled in for the ceremony noting the "Howdy"s and "Whoop"s coming from the speakers on stage and the audience around us. Folks, this isn't Bear Country anymore.

On a lighter note, I have rediscovered my passion for scrapbooking today. This wave appears every now and then resulting in pulling out lots of pictures, paper, and stickers and a creation of something truly magnificent...a scrapbook. Then the supplies go back in the closet until the urging emerges again. Currently, I am in a whirlwind of wedding pictures and memorabilia. I realized once this baby is born we will have our hands full cataloging his or her every move, so I had better get this year of marriage in the book first. We will see how long this wave lasts!

I wish I had some baby updates to share, but things seem relatively quiet on this front. Often, I sit very still hoping to feel him or her, but to no avail. I know it will happen soon, but I am getting so impatient. Oh well...maybe in my next post.

Rachel Ray and other Doctor's Office Fun

This morning we headed over to our doctor's office to get a check up on the baby. One of the best parts (or worst parts if you are Jonathan) of these visits is the time spent in the waiting room. There are all sorts of pregnancy magazines and usually some exciting show on a large TV in the corner. Today it was Rachel Ray...by the way, she is now more than just 30 Minute Meals. Rachel entertains guest stars at a table in her TV studio kitchen, interacts constantly with the large studio audience, and throws an incredible meal together towards the end of her hour slot. If you think of a woman who seemingly does it all, this is her! It's like Oprah and Emeril put together...BAM! If I was ever going to remodel my kitchen, I would make it into a TV studio kicthen. You know the kind where you put a roast in the oven and then it is ready right after the commercial break. Also all your ingredients come already chopped and prepared in those cute little ceramic prep bowls. That would be the way to cook! Anyway, I settled into my wait to enjoy a little Rachel and Jonathan began to grow bored. Luckily, they called our name quickly and we went back to enjoy the other facets of the doctor's office.

Inside the exam room, we heard the baby's heartbeat and it is so strong. We were so excited because last time they had a hard time finding it due to the baby's size and position. The doctor gave us a rundown of some other things for this stage and then turned it over to me for questions. Usually, I get so starstruck by hearing all these things about the baby that all my questions fly out the window, but today I managed to keep my head. I am a firm believer in "Don't believe everything you read" so I like to check with her as I read different things in "What to Expect When You are Expecting". Therefore, my list of questions began with...can I go to the dentist while pregnant? WTEWYAE says yes, but I wanted a go ahead from the professional. Also because I don't like going to the dentist.

In other news, we will find out the baby's gender in 2-3 weeks. I hoped it would be sooner, but good things come to those who wait. So we are waiting patiently...or not so patiently. All in all, the doctor's visit was anticlimactic (aside from watching Rachel Ray), but I guess it is better that way.

Growing Baby

You know your baby is growing when you have dreams about eating...and then wake up in the middle of the night with a growling stomach. I read that in the next several weeks, our baby will double in size! That means lots of eating for me and lots of sleeping. Those seem to be two things I cannot get enough of...food and sleep. Even Jonathan is astonished with my daily food intake. He laughs when he discovers that even after 10 hours of sleep at night, I managed to squeeze in a nap in the afternoon!

We will go to the doctor on Wednesday morning, where they will schedule us another appointment to find out whether it's a boy or girl. At first, we really thought it was a boy. But lately, I am leaning towards a girl. It is so exciting to think about finding out so soon! I already have crib bedding picked out for either, so I feel fairly prepared on that end. If it's a girl, I love this pink toile (http://www.beyond-bedding.com/pink-french-toile-baby-bedding.html). If it's a boy, I love the Baby Boats collection at Pottery Barn Kids.

Clothingwise, I am officially in maternity clothes. Even my one size too big pants are getting too tight. With the baby growing so much, I feel like my stomach will grow even more soon. Time to play...what still fits? I am so thankful for this little one inside and I look forward to feeling him or her start moving around. I will keep you posted!

Beginning of a Blog...

The Lairs are having a blog! In order to keep our friends and family updated with the progress of our growing little one, we decided to start a little weblog with our thoughts, news, and cravings of the day. Most of all, we are so thankful for you as you think about us and pray for us in this changing stage of life. As you read our updates, please take a moment to pray for our family and this little one on the way. Let the blogging begin!