What a fun day we have had! And now it is 7pm and we are at home in our sweats already. Which is funny because it is New Years Eve. As most people are out celebrating, we will be at home snuggled up under blankets, celebrating Texas time. Haha! I think we will be going to bed at about 10:00!
Which is fine considering what a fun day we have had! The thing is, today we celebrated Valentine's Day. Back on February 14th, as we drove to a last minute doctors appointment for Caleb, we decided to celebrate Valentine's Day different then everybody else. We decided that we would each choose a day throughout the year and plan a Valentine's Day date for the other. So, back in July, Caleb took me on a picnic dinner at a Journey cover band concert. And today was my turn, and it was such a fun and relaxing day.
First, we went to a marine and hunting store where we roamed and Caleb checked out all these "manly" things. He was like a kid in a candy store. And when we left, he said, "Oh that was so fun! It made me happy, happy, happy!" (Which that saying was in honor of Phil from the Duck Dynasty episodes we have been watching! haha!) Then, we went to an early showing of The Hobbit at the extra large auditorium at Cinetopia. Caleb has been wanting to see it all month, so it was fun to take him. Then we just ran errands together and got Chipotle to bring home. (Which is something I am slowly starting to handle again in this pregnancy!)
Today was just a nice, simple day. We are just thankful that we had at least got one day just to spend together, out and about, over Caleb's break. Tomorrow he is going to do some training so it is kind of like his break is over after tonight. I cannot believe these two weeks are already over......
Now on to 2013...what a year it will be!! I am so excited!!
Monday, December 31, 2012
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Christmas 2012
We have had such a great Christmas this year. Although we had the little set back with Caleb's surgery, overall it has been a very relaxing and special holiday. It has been simple and that's exactly what we love the most.
Christmas Eve was just the two of us. We talked throughout the day that, after this year, Christmas will never be the same because we will have a little one with us. How fun will that be!?!? But for now, we just enjoyed the day together. Caleb is still recovering so he took a long nap as I made a salmon dinner and cleaned to Christmas music, we played games, and then we went to the Christmas Eve service at our church. When we got home Caleb put on a slightly cheesy Christmasy chick flick for us to watch before we went to bed as I drank hot cocoa. It was a great day!
Then, on Christmas Day we headed up to Dad and Diane's. Again, it was a quiet day...and we even had some snow! It was great to see my sister, Jillene, who is in town from the Bahamas. Steph and the kids came over and also Diane's mom, Mary, came over as well. And we just ate, played Settlers of Catan and watched a documentary on Mt. Sinai. It was so nice just to have a day of rest as we celebrated Jesus' birth with loved ones. My only regret is that I didn't take pictures again! But I did snag a couple as we drove and got close to their home.
So today we started to check things off our to-do list again. We ran some errands and got some things done together. It did kind of wear Caleb out a little, considering he is still recovering from surgery. So we are now at home, under blankets, watching Lord of the Rings. He wants to see The Hobbit later this weekend so he is in a Lord of the Rings mood. We laughed as he put it on because, if I am honest, I am not a huge Lord of the Rings fan. But when we dated we watched all of them together. I just told him that I wasn't trying to trick him into thinking I liked the movies as much as him back then....I think I just loved spending time with him and loved them at that point because I was spending time with him and getting to know him! :) Actually, one of our favorite memories dating was a day we both worked later in the day, so he came over one morning and I made us a big breakfast and we watched them. So now he is snuggled up, resting, and watching them once again.
I am so glad we still have a good number of days left of Caleb's break......these days are so special! In the meantime, I may just close my eyes for a few minutes...or hour...hee hee....
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Day #1 Of Our Break: A Hospital Visit
I think it is safe to say that the only real Christmas tradition that Caleb and I have are trips to the doctors. Two years ago he was down with a bad knee and I had throat surgery...I don't know who was in worse shape that year. Last year, Caleb couldn't walk with a flare-up and start of the pseudovasculitis.
Which brings me to this year.....
Since day #1 of Caleb's new job, I have literally been crossing off the days on a calendar until his Christmas break. This calendar is on our refrigerator. We have been dreaming of two weeks off together, without any physical ailments, to just enjoy spending time with each other over the holidays.
Good news: We still get our break together. Bad news: We had a minor hiccup in our plans and we may be resting a little more than planned, but that is okay!
Caleb started feeling not so well on Monday but thought it would just go away. Then Tuesday he went to his last day of work before his two weeks off. He told me his stomach hurt but didn't want to worry me. He pushed through it that day, being it was his last day and he had a busy day. But when he got home and started describing the pain to me, I told him it didn't sound like the flu to me. Plus, he seemed fine unless we were laughing, when he would hold his stomach and moan.
So we waited til morning, day #1 of our break. But, sadly, he said it hurt worse. And when I asked him if he wanted me to take him to the doctor, he said, "maybe." And that is when I knew it was something more serious because Caleb would never consider going to the doctor unless it was. Before he even got out of bed I called the doctor, and they got him in within the hour. A half hour after that appointment he had an ultrasound, where we found out that he had appendicitis. And we were told they could either get an ambulance to take him to the ER or we could drive and they would let them know we were on our way.
Side note: I had not showered in a couple days and didn't think I would be gone all day....ugh.
We stopped by the house for some books and food before going to the hospital. We hurried to get going. But the crazy part is that we could have taken our time even though they acted like it was urgent. We ended up waiting and waiting and waiting and waiting all day for an operation room to open up. They said that they were over 200% capacity for some reason that day. We were both in great spirits, literally laughing all day. After all the things we have been through with Caleb's health, this felt like nothing in comparison. The hardest part was the thing that hurt Caleb the worst was laughing....and we couldn't stop! There was one point where I was trying not to laugh so he wouldn't and my face contorted. So I looked away. When I looked back at him he looked like he was in pain and I asked him if he was okay. His response: "I can't look at your face or I will start laughing." I was like, "Well, thanks." And we both busted out laughing, as he held his side.
So finally, at 9:30 at night they wheeled him to pre-op and was out of surgery before midnight. The hardest part was when they wheeled him away. And also when I drove home. I don't know what it is about surgery and being utterly exhausted but it makes you a little more emotional. Being we were in Clackamas, as I drove home to sleep for a few hours, I drove the route I used to drive when we were dating. And kept telling God I had no idea back then what an amazing guy He was giving me and just asked God to take care of him. That was literally only the fifth night we have had apart since we have been married.
The good news, he is doing great and we got him home at 9:30 this morning. Meaning, it was only a 25 hour inconvenience in our break together. It is a good thing he got it out. The doctor said that although he was the healthiest patient they worked on that day, his appendix was the worst by a large margin.
So today we have been in our PJs and just watched TV and taken naps. To be honest, we haven't talked much cause the only rule is "no laughing" and it seems like he thinks I am really funny these days and has been fighting the giggles. He says it is like being in church and knowing you can't laugh...it makes it worse. So it is safer not to communicate much so he isn't having to control his abs! haha!
There aren't any pictures of post-op cause they definitely are a little worse. But we have 13 days ahead together and I am sure we will have many memories made! Either way, I am just thankful to spend time with Caleb. He is my best friend and I would rather just hang out with him than do anything else anyways! And I am so thankful he is better.....
Which brings me to this year.....
Since day #1 of Caleb's new job, I have literally been crossing off the days on a calendar until his Christmas break. This calendar is on our refrigerator. We have been dreaming of two weeks off together, without any physical ailments, to just enjoy spending time with each other over the holidays.
Good news: We still get our break together. Bad news: We had a minor hiccup in our plans and we may be resting a little more than planned, but that is okay!
Caleb started feeling not so well on Monday but thought it would just go away. Then Tuesday he went to his last day of work before his two weeks off. He told me his stomach hurt but didn't want to worry me. He pushed through it that day, being it was his last day and he had a busy day. But when he got home and started describing the pain to me, I told him it didn't sound like the flu to me. Plus, he seemed fine unless we were laughing, when he would hold his stomach and moan.
So we waited til morning, day #1 of our break. But, sadly, he said it hurt worse. And when I asked him if he wanted me to take him to the doctor, he said, "maybe." And that is when I knew it was something more serious because Caleb would never consider going to the doctor unless it was. Before he even got out of bed I called the doctor, and they got him in within the hour. A half hour after that appointment he had an ultrasound, where we found out that he had appendicitis. And we were told they could either get an ambulance to take him to the ER or we could drive and they would let them know we were on our way.
Side note: I had not showered in a couple days and didn't think I would be gone all day....ugh.
We stopped by the house for some books and food before going to the hospital. We hurried to get going. But the crazy part is that we could have taken our time even though they acted like it was urgent. We ended up waiting and waiting and waiting and waiting all day for an operation room to open up. They said that they were over 200% capacity for some reason that day. We were both in great spirits, literally laughing all day. After all the things we have been through with Caleb's health, this felt like nothing in comparison. The hardest part was the thing that hurt Caleb the worst was laughing....and we couldn't stop! There was one point where I was trying not to laugh so he wouldn't and my face contorted. So I looked away. When I looked back at him he looked like he was in pain and I asked him if he was okay. His response: "I can't look at your face or I will start laughing." I was like, "Well, thanks." And we both busted out laughing, as he held his side.
So finally, at 9:30 at night they wheeled him to pre-op and was out of surgery before midnight. The hardest part was when they wheeled him away. And also when I drove home. I don't know what it is about surgery and being utterly exhausted but it makes you a little more emotional. Being we were in Clackamas, as I drove home to sleep for a few hours, I drove the route I used to drive when we were dating. And kept telling God I had no idea back then what an amazing guy He was giving me and just asked God to take care of him. That was literally only the fifth night we have had apart since we have been married.
The good news, he is doing great and we got him home at 9:30 this morning. Meaning, it was only a 25 hour inconvenience in our break together. It is a good thing he got it out. The doctor said that although he was the healthiest patient they worked on that day, his appendix was the worst by a large margin.
So today we have been in our PJs and just watched TV and taken naps. To be honest, we haven't talked much cause the only rule is "no laughing" and it seems like he thinks I am really funny these days and has been fighting the giggles. He says it is like being in church and knowing you can't laugh...it makes it worse. So it is safer not to communicate much so he isn't having to control his abs! haha!
There aren't any pictures of post-op cause they definitely are a little worse. But we have 13 days ahead together and I am sure we will have many memories made! Either way, I am just thankful to spend time with Caleb. He is my best friend and I would rather just hang out with him than do anything else anyways! And I am so thankful he is better.....
Sunday, December 16, 2012
My First Day Retired! :)
29 weeks tomorrow, and counting...
And this weekend is a very monumental weekend...yesterday I worked my last day at the salon, after over a decade of being a hairstylist! I don't think it will quite hit me until January, after the holidays are over. But this is definitely a dream coming true! I am thankful I will have (hopefully) two months to nest and get ready for Baby to come. (And, yes, she still is unnamed. haha!)
In the meantime we have been daydreaming of what she will look like and who she will take after. I have a feeling that she will take after her daddy. For one, when we were at the ultrasound appointment I had to laugh. The tech said, "Wow, I only have to do one photo for her feet cause I can get both feet in the same shot...she has her ankles crossed...that doesn't happen often." I just looked at Caleb and said, "She is already taking after you...all chillin' and relaxing in there the way you do!" Caleb always sits or lays down with his ankles crossed. Also, Caleb's mom has told me the story of how when Caleb was young, every single morning he would walk into the kitchen sleepy and request, "chocolate milk warmed up please" and then sit down in a chair. And, wow, have I been craving chocolate milk! So we will see soon just who this little girl takes after!
Caleb only has two more days of work until his Christmas break begins. I cannot wait to just hang out and spend time with him over the holidays! I can honestly say we never get tired of spending time with each other. He is my best friend and I just love him. And I know that we will spend some time (finally) tackling the back room that will turn into the nursery. I need his muscles to move the furniture currently back there for me. But we will also just relax and cherish the time we have, just the two of us, before our lives forever change.
But for tonight we are just in for the night. As the wind storm comes in, we are watching football...and I can just enjoy the game because I have officially made the final championship next week in our fantasy football league. Sounds like a perfect night to me! :)
And this weekend is a very monumental weekend...yesterday I worked my last day at the salon, after over a decade of being a hairstylist! I don't think it will quite hit me until January, after the holidays are over. But this is definitely a dream coming true! I am thankful I will have (hopefully) two months to nest and get ready for Baby to come. (And, yes, she still is unnamed. haha!)
In the meantime we have been daydreaming of what she will look like and who she will take after. I have a feeling that she will take after her daddy. For one, when we were at the ultrasound appointment I had to laugh. The tech said, "Wow, I only have to do one photo for her feet cause I can get both feet in the same shot...she has her ankles crossed...that doesn't happen often." I just looked at Caleb and said, "She is already taking after you...all chillin' and relaxing in there the way you do!" Caleb always sits or lays down with his ankles crossed. Also, Caleb's mom has told me the story of how when Caleb was young, every single morning he would walk into the kitchen sleepy and request, "chocolate milk warmed up please" and then sit down in a chair. And, wow, have I been craving chocolate milk! So we will see soon just who this little girl takes after!
Caleb only has two more days of work until his Christmas break begins. I cannot wait to just hang out and spend time with him over the holidays! I can honestly say we never get tired of spending time with each other. He is my best friend and I just love him. And I know that we will spend some time (finally) tackling the back room that will turn into the nursery. I need his muscles to move the furniture currently back there for me. But we will also just relax and cherish the time we have, just the two of us, before our lives forever change.
But for tonight we are just in for the night. As the wind storm comes in, we are watching football...and I can just enjoy the game because I have officially made the final championship next week in our fantasy football league. Sounds like a perfect night to me! :)
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Another Update in the Life of the Barnes'
The last couple of weeks at our house have been a whirlwind. In fact, so much so that I think I have got pretty run down and haven't felt so well the last few days. I think it is just from exhaustion trying to close up my career. There have even been a couple of days that I have felt like I may faint after standing so many hours at work. I think I have been just pushing myself a little too much. So this morning I found myself at home, to rest, as Caleb left to go to church with his buddy Jonah. You know I am pretty spent when Caleb asks me to stay home from church just have a day of rest.
I can hardly believe that I am in my third trimester! And I can hardly believe that my career is coming to an end quickly! In a way it hasn't really hit me yet. But then when our little girl moves around I quickly am reminded...and am deeply grateful. I am getting bigger and will post more pictures soon. And am thinking I will only get bigger during the upcoming months...I am hungry all the time! My recent cravings have been little Five Guys Hamburgers (must be the iron), and lean cuisine meals of all things, orange juice, and...get this...chocolate milk and yogurt! It is so crazy because I am somewhat lactose intolerant and have not had a glass of milk in over a decade! And I am totally fine drinking it while I am pregnant. So I have sent Caleb on many runs for my organic chocolate milk...I have had so much of it! Which probably means I am needing the calcium.
On a different note, a week or two ago we got some scary news. Caleb's dad, Bob, was diagnosed with larynx cancer and he also has had pre-throat cancer. This left him and the family with lots of decisions and questions. At first it looked like the main option was to have surgery and remove his larynx, leaving him without a voice. However, God has been leading him and his doctors to a new plan of attack. He will begin radiation treatment next Monday. The tricky part is he will have it everyday for about six weeks....and the cancer center is two hours away (so a total of 4 hour commute). Meaning he will have lots of driving in the upcoming weeks! Being the committed and hard working man that he is, his main concern was his work. But they have been amazing to him and have told him to do whatever he needs to do, which has freed him up a lot. But he still plans on working when he is able! For those who know Bob, that is no surprise. :) So we all are more hopefully today then we were when he first got the diagnosis. The doctors are hopeful as well. And we know that God is working in the midst of this, even in the ick of cancer. But please pray for him, Sheila, the family, the doctors, for healing, and that God is glorified. The upcoming weeks will be tough for especially Bob and Sheila. So please pray for strength physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It really puts life into perspective, that is for sure.
Lastly, today is a big day at our house. Caleb and I are playing head-to-head in our fantasy football league. :) Since we are in the playoffs, this means that one of us will knock the other person out of the running. Considering I have won my league championships the last two years, I am scared that this year Caleb will beat me and ruin my winning streak! But, I am projected to win, so we will see! It will be quite an intense day here once he is home from church. lol! :)
So now off to either take a nap, give myself a pedicure, or wrap some Christmas gifts....oh I am thankful for a day in my pajamas!
I can hardly believe that I am in my third trimester! And I can hardly believe that my career is coming to an end quickly! In a way it hasn't really hit me yet. But then when our little girl moves around I quickly am reminded...and am deeply grateful. I am getting bigger and will post more pictures soon. And am thinking I will only get bigger during the upcoming months...I am hungry all the time! My recent cravings have been little Five Guys Hamburgers (must be the iron), and lean cuisine meals of all things, orange juice, and...get this...chocolate milk and yogurt! It is so crazy because I am somewhat lactose intolerant and have not had a glass of milk in over a decade! And I am totally fine drinking it while I am pregnant. So I have sent Caleb on many runs for my organic chocolate milk...I have had so much of it! Which probably means I am needing the calcium.
On a different note, a week or two ago we got some scary news. Caleb's dad, Bob, was diagnosed with larynx cancer and he also has had pre-throat cancer. This left him and the family with lots of decisions and questions. At first it looked like the main option was to have surgery and remove his larynx, leaving him without a voice. However, God has been leading him and his doctors to a new plan of attack. He will begin radiation treatment next Monday. The tricky part is he will have it everyday for about six weeks....and the cancer center is two hours away (so a total of 4 hour commute). Meaning he will have lots of driving in the upcoming weeks! Being the committed and hard working man that he is, his main concern was his work. But they have been amazing to him and have told him to do whatever he needs to do, which has freed him up a lot. But he still plans on working when he is able! For those who know Bob, that is no surprise. :) So we all are more hopefully today then we were when he first got the diagnosis. The doctors are hopeful as well. And we know that God is working in the midst of this, even in the ick of cancer. But please pray for him, Sheila, the family, the doctors, for healing, and that God is glorified. The upcoming weeks will be tough for especially Bob and Sheila. So please pray for strength physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It really puts life into perspective, that is for sure.
Lastly, today is a big day at our house. Caleb and I are playing head-to-head in our fantasy football league. :) Since we are in the playoffs, this means that one of us will knock the other person out of the running. Considering I have won my league championships the last two years, I am scared that this year Caleb will beat me and ruin my winning streak! But, I am projected to win, so we will see! It will be quite an intense day here once he is home from church. lol! :)
So now off to either take a nap, give myself a pedicure, or wrap some Christmas gifts....oh I am thankful for a day in my pajamas!
Friday, November 23, 2012
Thanksgiving 2012
Caleb and I both had the day before Thanksgiving off work, so we celebrated our own little family Thanksgiving that day. It was so special. Actually, it was the first Thanksgiving we have had since we have been married that we were both healthy! We even got to go on a walk together when the sun sort of came out briefly. We just thanked God because, the past couple of years, Caleb has not been able to walk during the holidays. It was priceless and amazing....and much needed after our meal we ate!
Because Caleb is on a special diet, I had to get creative with what I would make as side dishes for him for his Thanksgiving meal. So, I literally made one meal for him and one meal for me (because how do you cook a turkey and not eat stuffing and mashed potatoes and gravy?!?!). :)
Another reason why I went ahead and make up a huge Thanksgiving meal was so that we could bring a true holiday meal for Caleb to eat the following day, on the actual holiday, when we went to visit family. We went up to Dad and Diane's and a bunch of the family was there, and we missed those who couldn't be there with us. I was busy either socializing, eating, or napping....so I slacked on picture taking. But here is what I ended up with....
We have had SOOOO much to be thankful for this year!!! Top of our list: That we have each other, Caleb's health, our sweet baby who we are scheduled to meet 100 days from tomorrow (I so hope she is close to her due date), God providing for us abundantly, and most importantly, the love that God has for us so deeply. We are blessed, and we absolutely know it!!
This morning I woke up at....get this....4am! I have NEVER done shopping on Black Friday before. I love my sleep enough, and plus I am always a huge bargain shopper so I have always figured I would find just as good a deal some other time on things I need. BUT, there was a sale on cloth diapers for this brand I have been looking at. It started at 4am. So I set my alarm and got up and placed an order. Good thing to, because they ended up selling out at in 45 minutes! So, I will have half of the cloth diapers I am planning on getting soon. I will be partly stocked up! However, I am planning on using disposables when she is a newborn, so I will have some time to wait for another sale to buy the other half. I also found a couple of other online deals, so over all I saved over $100!
I have a feeling we will be taking some naps today, since Caleb couldn't sleep after I got up.
For now he is out helping the guys from church get Christmas trees to decorate the church, and I am at home organizing and cleaning so we can put up our Christmas decorations later this weekend! Tradition...put them up Thanksgiving weekend! :) It is going to be such a special Christmas....I just know it. As I mentioned, we have so much to be thankful for.....
Because Caleb is on a special diet, I had to get creative with what I would make as side dishes for him for his Thanksgiving meal. So, I literally made one meal for him and one meal for me (because how do you cook a turkey and not eat stuffing and mashed potatoes and gravy?!?!). :)
Another reason why I went ahead and make up a huge Thanksgiving meal was so that we could bring a true holiday meal for Caleb to eat the following day, on the actual holiday, when we went to visit family. We went up to Dad and Diane's and a bunch of the family was there, and we missed those who couldn't be there with us. I was busy either socializing, eating, or napping....so I slacked on picture taking. But here is what I ended up with....
We have had SOOOO much to be thankful for this year!!! Top of our list: That we have each other, Caleb's health, our sweet baby who we are scheduled to meet 100 days from tomorrow (I so hope she is close to her due date), God providing for us abundantly, and most importantly, the love that God has for us so deeply. We are blessed, and we absolutely know it!!
This morning I woke up at....get this....4am! I have NEVER done shopping on Black Friday before. I love my sleep enough, and plus I am always a huge bargain shopper so I have always figured I would find just as good a deal some other time on things I need. BUT, there was a sale on cloth diapers for this brand I have been looking at. It started at 4am. So I set my alarm and got up and placed an order. Good thing to, because they ended up selling out at in 45 minutes! So, I will have half of the cloth diapers I am planning on getting soon. I will be partly stocked up! However, I am planning on using disposables when she is a newborn, so I will have some time to wait for another sale to buy the other half. I also found a couple of other online deals, so over all I saved over $100!
I have a feeling we will be taking some naps today, since Caleb couldn't sleep after I got up.
For now he is out helping the guys from church get Christmas trees to decorate the church, and I am at home organizing and cleaning so we can put up our Christmas decorations later this weekend! Tradition...put them up Thanksgiving weekend! :) It is going to be such a special Christmas....I just know it. As I mentioned, we have so much to be thankful for.....
Saturday, November 17, 2012
California Trip & 1st Baby Shower
This has been quite an eventful week! First, Monday morning we woke up super early to get me to the airport so I could take a quick three day trip to visit Liz and her sweet family. I was so happy to be able to go visit them, and meet her little boy, Flint, for the first time. He is so precious, and his sister has grown up so much since I saw her a year ago! Considering Liz and Mike have two kiddos under a year and a half, I got taste of what motherhood is like. We spent most of our time in our PJs, playing with, holding, feeding, etc the kids...there was constant activity. I can see that Liz has her hands full when it is just her on her own! It was so sunny and pretty there, about 70 degrees, which was a nice surprise considering we have been cloudy and rainy in Portland and it was so nice to take the kids out for a walk in the sun.
It's great that I was able to visit Liz while I was pregnant with a daughter. When I was first pregnant, but actually didn't know it yet, I had a dream that I went to visit her and I had a little girl. She was showing me the best way to swaddle a baby. And I feel like in a way part of the dream actually happened this week. It was so special!
And can I just say that Liz is so amazing!?!? She sent me home with two huge duffel bags FULL of all of Olivia's clothes she outgrew this year!!! So I feel such a sense of relief as to how much I have to buy. I doubt I will have to buy hardly any clothes for the first year!! What a blessing!!!! I don't know how I can say "thank you" enough to that girl!
And then this morning, I went to my first baby shower! It was sooo nice! We had a small group of my friends who all went together and brought me to Mother's Bistro downtown for breakfast and gifts. It was so much fun, and oh so nice of them! It was the perfect setting (it has always been one of my favorite restaurants) and I cannot wait to use all the gifts on our little girl!
This morning Caleb took this picture of me. On Monday I was officially 6 months along...so in two days I will be 25 weeks. I can't believe my third trimester is only a couple weeks away!!! Wow!
Now I am so ready for a nap.... :)
It's great that I was able to visit Liz while I was pregnant with a daughter. When I was first pregnant, but actually didn't know it yet, I had a dream that I went to visit her and I had a little girl. She was showing me the best way to swaddle a baby. And I feel like in a way part of the dream actually happened this week. It was so special!
And can I just say that Liz is so amazing!?!? She sent me home with two huge duffel bags FULL of all of Olivia's clothes she outgrew this year!!! So I feel such a sense of relief as to how much I have to buy. I doubt I will have to buy hardly any clothes for the first year!! What a blessing!!!! I don't know how I can say "thank you" enough to that girl!
And then this morning, I went to my first baby shower! It was sooo nice! We had a small group of my friends who all went together and brought me to Mother's Bistro downtown for breakfast and gifts. It was so much fun, and oh so nice of them! It was the perfect setting (it has always been one of my favorite restaurants) and I cannot wait to use all the gifts on our little girl!
This morning Caleb took this picture of me. On Monday I was officially 6 months along...so in two days I will be 25 weeks. I can't believe my third trimester is only a couple weeks away!!! Wow!
Now I am so ready for a nap.... :)
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Big Announcement For My Clients
Wow. Where do I begin? My mind and my heart are racing with what to say and where to start. So I will begin with getting right to the point.
I gave a month and a half notice today at work. This means that December 15th will be my last day working at the salon.
This decision has been a very big decision for Caleb and I, that we have not taken lightly. I have done hair for over a decade of my life, for 11 years. I love doing hair, but more importantly, I love each and every one of my clients. For those who know me well, they know I don't just see my clients as "clients." They have become my friends. And their love, hearts, stories, and perspectives have impacted my life greatly. I have been blessed to live life with so many fabulous people.
But with our little baby coming, we had a decision to make. My dream, since as early as I could remember, has been to be a stay-at-home mom. From kindergarden to even when I was getting my college degree, if I were asked what I wanted to do, I would say that I wanted to be a wife and a mom. In my eyes, it is the most admirable job there is. And there is nothing I want to do do better than to do those roles well.
So when we found out that I was pregnant, we were beyond thrilled. A life long dream of mine was coming true! But with that questions of what that would look like for my career arose. A month later, the day we saw our little girl on an ultrasound for the first time, Caleb would go in for a final interview for a job he would be offered the next day. The timing could not be more clear in our eyes that God gave him this job to provide for the baby He was giving us.
That being said, now that Caleb's football season has ended, and his health is going so great, we made a final decision that this is a good time to step away from my career.
Last year, when Caleb's health was struggling, if I am honest, I felt like it almost killed me. It was so hard for me to keep up with being caretaker for husband, and also keep up serving all my clients. So now as I go into this new role in life, I want to be able to do it not feeling the pressure to perform for everybody that needs me.
In fact, that is why I am resigning a little bit earlier than intended. First, Caleb will have two weeks off at Christmas where we plan to just enjoy our holidays together. Considering we have yet to have a Christmas where we are both healthy since we have been married, this is priceless to us. Then January and February I will take time for myself...to process through all we have been through (I have yet to slow down since Caleb was in the hospital last year), to process all that is to come (I am gonna be a mom!), and to get practical stuff done like cleaning and getting the nursery set up. Plus, I don't know if I am gonna want to stand all day those last couple months!
This all leaves me with a variety of emotions. Everything from grief to excitement. Grief because there are many people who I have seen on a very regular basis for over ten years, who I will no longer be able to see as much. To excitement....my life-long dream is coming true! So, yes, there are tears as I write this. Maybe its just the pregnancy hormones. But I feel like they are tears foreseeing the many "goodbyes" I am about to have. But also tears of thankfulness for the friendships I have experienced with so many that I love and dreams coming true.
So were do we go from here??....Good question. I am already so booked between now and December 15th! So if you have yet to schedule, please make sure you get in touch with me soon.
And I will try to remind myself that this doesn't mean it is a permanent "goodbye." This just means that we will have to be more diligent to call each other and do coffee now! I mean, after all, I want you all to meet my sweet little daughter! :)
I love you all very much. I really do, and I trust you know that. Thank you for letting me into your lives and for trusting me with the secrets, tears, and laughter we have experienced. You have truly impacted my life.....I love you and thank you.
I gave a month and a half notice today at work. This means that December 15th will be my last day working at the salon.
This decision has been a very big decision for Caleb and I, that we have not taken lightly. I have done hair for over a decade of my life, for 11 years. I love doing hair, but more importantly, I love each and every one of my clients. For those who know me well, they know I don't just see my clients as "clients." They have become my friends. And their love, hearts, stories, and perspectives have impacted my life greatly. I have been blessed to live life with so many fabulous people.
But with our little baby coming, we had a decision to make. My dream, since as early as I could remember, has been to be a stay-at-home mom. From kindergarden to even when I was getting my college degree, if I were asked what I wanted to do, I would say that I wanted to be a wife and a mom. In my eyes, it is the most admirable job there is. And there is nothing I want to do do better than to do those roles well.
So when we found out that I was pregnant, we were beyond thrilled. A life long dream of mine was coming true! But with that questions of what that would look like for my career arose. A month later, the day we saw our little girl on an ultrasound for the first time, Caleb would go in for a final interview for a job he would be offered the next day. The timing could not be more clear in our eyes that God gave him this job to provide for the baby He was giving us.
That being said, now that Caleb's football season has ended, and his health is going so great, we made a final decision that this is a good time to step away from my career.
Last year, when Caleb's health was struggling, if I am honest, I felt like it almost killed me. It was so hard for me to keep up with being caretaker for husband, and also keep up serving all my clients. So now as I go into this new role in life, I want to be able to do it not feeling the pressure to perform for everybody that needs me.
In fact, that is why I am resigning a little bit earlier than intended. First, Caleb will have two weeks off at Christmas where we plan to just enjoy our holidays together. Considering we have yet to have a Christmas where we are both healthy since we have been married, this is priceless to us. Then January and February I will take time for myself...to process through all we have been through (I have yet to slow down since Caleb was in the hospital last year), to process all that is to come (I am gonna be a mom!), and to get practical stuff done like cleaning and getting the nursery set up. Plus, I don't know if I am gonna want to stand all day those last couple months!
This all leaves me with a variety of emotions. Everything from grief to excitement. Grief because there are many people who I have seen on a very regular basis for over ten years, who I will no longer be able to see as much. To excitement....my life-long dream is coming true! So, yes, there are tears as I write this. Maybe its just the pregnancy hormones. But I feel like they are tears foreseeing the many "goodbyes" I am about to have. But also tears of thankfulness for the friendships I have experienced with so many that I love and dreams coming true.
So were do we go from here??....Good question. I am already so booked between now and December 15th! So if you have yet to schedule, please make sure you get in touch with me soon.
And I will try to remind myself that this doesn't mean it is a permanent "goodbye." This just means that we will have to be more diligent to call each other and do coffee now! I mean, after all, I want you all to meet my sweet little daughter! :)
I love you all very much. I really do, and I trust you know that. Thank you for letting me into your lives and for trusting me with the secrets, tears, and laughter we have experienced. You have truly impacted my life.....I love you and thank you.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Another Week Down and Some Special Moments
Tomorrow marks my 22nd week of pregnancy! I have to say the the most special thing happened today....Caleb felt our little girl kick, a few times, for the first time. I felt like she was on a roll so I had him come put his hand on my tummy. Then she kicked harder than usual, his head popped up with his eyes so big, and was like, "I felt that!" And so he did it again and just laughed out of excitement each time she kicked. After that, all afternoon, he kept putting his head real close to her and telling her how beautiful she is and how much he loves her. It was so sweet. I was so excited that finally he was able to feel a little bit of what I have been feeling the past few weeks. And another thing is that, at one point when he is head was up against my tummy, he laughed. Then he said, "I can literally hear her swimming around. And it isn't like food digesting. It is like you are underwater." I told him that is one thing I will never know what it sounds like cause I can't get my ear down there, only he will know that sound. So sweet.
At my doctors appointment on Friday, my doctor says everything looks and sounds great still. We are, oh, so thankful. And when she measured me to see how big the baby is projected, she was to the millimeter exactly what is expected. It is always such a relief to hear that. Awe, I just can't wait to meet her!!!
And I started reading through the gospels this last week, out loud to her in the morning. I intended to read through all four of them last fall/winter before Christmas, but it didn't happen. So this year I am hoping to make it through all of them, but this time read out loud to our little girl. I just want her to know all about Jesus and love Him with all her heart.
On a sad note, before I get off the computer to watch a show with Caleb....I think I am losing my top spot on our fantasy football league this week. I think I am gonna lose. That is sad. Oh well....lots of weeks to make up for it. :)
At my doctors appointment on Friday, my doctor says everything looks and sounds great still. We are, oh, so thankful. And when she measured me to see how big the baby is projected, she was to the millimeter exactly what is expected. It is always such a relief to hear that. Awe, I just can't wait to meet her!!!
And I started reading through the gospels this last week, out loud to her in the morning. I intended to read through all four of them last fall/winter before Christmas, but it didn't happen. So this year I am hoping to make it through all of them, but this time read out loud to our little girl. I just want her to know all about Jesus and love Him with all her heart.
On a sad note, before I get off the computer to watch a show with Caleb....I think I am losing my top spot on our fantasy football league this week. I think I am gonna lose. That is sad. Oh well....lots of weeks to make up for it. :)
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
The End of a (Football) Season
Yesterday was Caleb's last game coaching this season. It ended on a game that's score was 0-0. But, wow, it was a great and close game the whole way through even though nobody scored. Nhu was able to come with me and experienced her first American high school football game. She cheered loudly next to me and was so cute when she would get stressed out when it was close. What a great cheerleader! And Caleb was happy too, even though they didn't win. He had a smile on his face and was proud of his boys. It's been such a fun season for him. But I have to say I am excited to have more time with my husband again! :)
Thanks, Jo Wheat, for all your photography skills. You were so great at keeping up on the photos & you are a pro at what you do!
Thanks, Jo Wheat, for all your photography skills. You were so great at keeping up on the photos & you are a pro at what you do!
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| Go Huskies! |
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| Coach Barnes with some guys on the sidelines. |
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| Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can't Loose! :) |
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| Nhu and I at the last game. |
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| My loyal co-Coach Barnes fans! :) Thanks Teresa & Delaney for coming to so many games with me!!! |
Monday, October 22, 2012
Seeing My Sister Nhu & More of Everyday Life
Life just keeps going. Even though I would love for it to just pause every once in a while, things just continue on as usual. But I am trying to find times where I am the one who pauses in the craziness of life.
So I find myself alone in our home this morning. Caleb is off to work. I already went to two different grocery stores and now, before 10am, I am sitting here with a bag of sour cream and cheddar potato chips of all things! It had been years since I had bought potato chips (other than corn chips) before I was pregnant. How things change. It seems to be the only thing to settle my stomach this morning, so I will take it!
I really should go clean the kitchen. But instead I am laying here snuggled up under the blankets, thinking back to the last couple of days.
I have been able to see my sister, Nhu, a couple times since she has come to visit. I just love that girl. She teaches me so much. I have been thankful for the time I have been able to spend with her, and most importantly, for the really special talks that we have had. They mean so much to me. So, so special.
And then Saturday night, Caleb and I went to a banquet for Remember Nhu. The goal was to raise $125,000 to build a home to house at risk boys from being put into the sex trade. It is now estimated that 20-30% of the industry is made up on young boys. So devastating. I am eager to hear how much was raised!
At the banquet, Nhu spoke of part of her story...how she was raised without knowing her parents, but how God was her Father and how she came to know and love Him. I don't know how people could hear it and not be moved. God has really worked in her life. I know that over 500 children have been saved from being put into the sex trade already because of her story, and those numbers are growing so quickly. But I have to say, I wonder how many countless thousands have been impacted in a profound way from even hearing her story! Her story is one that is a special one in history. And as I see opportunities expand, I can only imagine how many will be touched and changed. The greatest part is that she is so, so humble about it.
So as we go into the week, I am thankful. I am thankful for the nice weekend we had. I am thankful for sweatshirts and blankets and potato chips. I am thankful that this is Caleb's last week to coach football this year, as much as it has been fun! And I am thankful that, even though I don't feel well, there is a sweet little girl growing inside of me who is really loved. Now if I could only get up and get cleaning the kitchen.... hahaha!
So I find myself alone in our home this morning. Caleb is off to work. I already went to two different grocery stores and now, before 10am, I am sitting here with a bag of sour cream and cheddar potato chips of all things! It had been years since I had bought potato chips (other than corn chips) before I was pregnant. How things change. It seems to be the only thing to settle my stomach this morning, so I will take it!
I really should go clean the kitchen. But instead I am laying here snuggled up under the blankets, thinking back to the last couple of days.
I have been able to see my sister, Nhu, a couple times since she has come to visit. I just love that girl. She teaches me so much. I have been thankful for the time I have been able to spend with her, and most importantly, for the really special talks that we have had. They mean so much to me. So, so special.
And then Saturday night, Caleb and I went to a banquet for Remember Nhu. The goal was to raise $125,000 to build a home to house at risk boys from being put into the sex trade. It is now estimated that 20-30% of the industry is made up on young boys. So devastating. I am eager to hear how much was raised!
At the banquet, Nhu spoke of part of her story...how she was raised without knowing her parents, but how God was her Father and how she came to know and love Him. I don't know how people could hear it and not be moved. God has really worked in her life. I know that over 500 children have been saved from being put into the sex trade already because of her story, and those numbers are growing so quickly. But I have to say, I wonder how many countless thousands have been impacted in a profound way from even hearing her story! Her story is one that is a special one in history. And as I see opportunities expand, I can only imagine how many will be touched and changed. The greatest part is that she is so, so humble about it.
So as we go into the week, I am thankful. I am thankful for the nice weekend we had. I am thankful for sweatshirts and blankets and potato chips. I am thankful that this is Caleb's last week to coach football this year, as much as it has been fun! And I am thankful that, even though I don't feel well, there is a sweet little girl growing inside of me who is really loved. Now if I could only get up and get cleaning the kitchen.... hahaha!
Monday, October 15, 2012
Halfway There!
Today I am 20 weeks pregnant...meaning, Caleb is telling me I am at "halftime." haha! He doesn't go by the typical trimesters that most of us do. He has been going by quarters (ie., like a football game). 20 weeks! In one way I can hardly believe it. In another, it definitely seems like it has been that long.
This is a picture of me from yesterday. Everybody keeps telling me that I am tiny for being 20 weeks. Sometimes it kinda scares me, thinking that I hope the baby is developing her size okay. And then Caleb will remind me that we just had an ultrasound last week and got an email saying everything was normal. So, worries aside. And just anticipating the joy of having her here soon! I spend so much time of my day dreaming of what she will be like and who she will look like. I just want to know this sweet little gal!
One thing that has been really exciting is feeling this little lady kick! I was unsure for a couple weeks if I were feeling her move or not. But last Monday (at 19 weeks), I was laying in bed, working on my laptop and I am sure a felt a few little kicks. And I have felt the same thing everyday since. She usually stops when I say something like "What's wrong Baby?" so it doesn't last long. But it is so sweet when it happens. I wonder how it will feel when she is bigger and an elbow jab will be stronger!
Side note: I am trying not to get too excited because Caleb may be on board with the ONE name we kind of agreed on before. He actually started referring to her by this name a little bit when he talks to her. And yesterdays message at church was on the topic of the meaning of the name. So, Caleb may be getting on board. :) Hee hee.....I just don't want to wait a week after she is born to agree on a name!!! lol!
And fall is definitely here in the Northwest, as of this last weekend! The rain is back. But, wow, we have had a beautiful fall! This week I am sure it will be pretty chilly sitting through Caleb's football game. He only has a couple of weeks left until the season is done. It has been a blast for him....tons of work...but he has absolutely loved it.
And my agenda for today....I am going to cook my first batch, of the year, of Mom's lentil soup. Perfect fall meal. Hot and hearty and so good. And the hopefully get going on my book club book, considering we have book club in a few days. Oops! hahaha!
So on to a new day...
This is a picture of me from yesterday. Everybody keeps telling me that I am tiny for being 20 weeks. Sometimes it kinda scares me, thinking that I hope the baby is developing her size okay. And then Caleb will remind me that we just had an ultrasound last week and got an email saying everything was normal. So, worries aside. And just anticipating the joy of having her here soon! I spend so much time of my day dreaming of what she will be like and who she will look like. I just want to know this sweet little gal!
One thing that has been really exciting is feeling this little lady kick! I was unsure for a couple weeks if I were feeling her move or not. But last Monday (at 19 weeks), I was laying in bed, working on my laptop and I am sure a felt a few little kicks. And I have felt the same thing everyday since. She usually stops when I say something like "What's wrong Baby?" so it doesn't last long. But it is so sweet when it happens. I wonder how it will feel when she is bigger and an elbow jab will be stronger!
Side note: I am trying not to get too excited because Caleb may be on board with the ONE name we kind of agreed on before. He actually started referring to her by this name a little bit when he talks to her. And yesterdays message at church was on the topic of the meaning of the name. So, Caleb may be getting on board. :) Hee hee.....I just don't want to wait a week after she is born to agree on a name!!! lol!
And fall is definitely here in the Northwest, as of this last weekend! The rain is back. But, wow, we have had a beautiful fall! This week I am sure it will be pretty chilly sitting through Caleb's football game. He only has a couple of weeks left until the season is done. It has been a blast for him....tons of work...but he has absolutely loved it.
And my agenda for today....I am going to cook my first batch, of the year, of Mom's lentil soup. Perfect fall meal. Hot and hearty and so good. And the hopefully get going on my book club book, considering we have book club in a few days. Oops! hahaha!
So on to a new day...
Friday, October 12, 2012
It's a GIRL! :)
She is already been given the nickname "Peanut" by her daddy. Today we found out that our little baby is a little GIRL! We are so beyond thrilled! Isn't she just so cute!?!?!
As we were driving home from the ultrasound appointment today, Caleb made the comment, "I think I need to do more man stuff now. Otherwise, I think I may cry more now that we are having a little girl." Hee hee. Our hearts are just melting, and it is definitely making me tear up with emotion all over again.
So now on to trying to agree on a name. Haha...this may be quite the tasks, considering we have complete opposite taste in names. I thought we had finally agreed on one last week. But, in the middle of the ultrasound appointment, when he saw her, Caleb said, "No, I don't think that is the name." I was thinking it was! LOL! So, back to the drawing board (maybe....if I can't convince him...hee hee.)
We are so thankful for the love and excitement so many are showing us with this news. God is good! And we thank Him that He loves her and is so close to her even now when we can't see her little face.
As we were driving home from the ultrasound appointment today, Caleb made the comment, "I think I need to do more man stuff now. Otherwise, I think I may cry more now that we are having a little girl." Hee hee. Our hearts are just melting, and it is definitely making me tear up with emotion all over again.
So now on to trying to agree on a name. Haha...this may be quite the tasks, considering we have complete opposite taste in names. I thought we had finally agreed on one last week. But, in the middle of the ultrasound appointment, when he saw her, Caleb said, "No, I don't think that is the name." I was thinking it was! LOL! So, back to the drawing board (maybe....if I can't convince him...hee hee.)
We are so thankful for the love and excitement so many are showing us with this news. God is good! And we thank Him that He loves her and is so close to her even now when we can't see her little face.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
19 Weeks Tomorrow....
Tomorrow I am officially 19 weeks along. Almost halfway! On the way home from church today, I looked at Caleb and said, "Doesn't it feel like this pregnancy is taking forever?!?!" He just smiled, he couldn't say that he felt that way, being as busy as he has been.
Here is a picture Caleb took of me this morning...you can definitely see my "bump". It just popped out earlier this week, what felt like overnight.
Funny story....I was telling Caleb that my client commented how she was watching me from the lobby of the salon and told me that I don't have a waistline anymore. And Caleb's response...lol..."Oh you still have a waistline. It is just getting big!!" I think this is the only time in his life he can get by saying that. :) It is definitely an amazing reason to grow!!
So we are counting down the days....First, this Friday we will find out if this little one is a boy or girl. And secondly, I cannot wait to meet our little one face-to-face! I dream of it every single day.
In the meantime, I am trying to get as much rest as I can. I am going to spend the rest of the day knitting and watching football with Caleb. He is outside throwing knives until the next game is on. Typical Sunday at the Barnes'.... :)
Here is a picture Caleb took of me this morning...you can definitely see my "bump". It just popped out earlier this week, what felt like overnight.
Funny story....I was telling Caleb that my client commented how she was watching me from the lobby of the salon and told me that I don't have a waistline anymore. And Caleb's response...lol..."Oh you still have a waistline. It is just getting big!!" I think this is the only time in his life he can get by saying that. :) It is definitely an amazing reason to grow!!
So we are counting down the days....First, this Friday we will find out if this little one is a boy or girl. And secondly, I cannot wait to meet our little one face-to-face! I dream of it every single day.
In the meantime, I am trying to get as much rest as I can. I am going to spend the rest of the day knitting and watching football with Caleb. He is outside throwing knives until the next game is on. Typical Sunday at the Barnes'.... :)
Monday, October 1, 2012
Nothing Exciting...But Thankful
Not everybody wants a play-by-play of our life these days, trust me it doesn't have anything too exciting. But, I do want to document a couple small things, just for family journaling sake.
Caleb has been working such long hours. Last week he put in literally 80 hours. Between his regular job at the school, practice, an away game that was over three hours away, homecoming week (powder puff game to do security for one night, the homecoming game another, and also the dance another)....well, he was go-go-go for six days straight. We are so thankful though! His body held up great!
And while being that busy, he also included one day of fasting in the midst. Last spring he read a book on conquering arthritis. As part of it he did a week fast and is supposed to do a 3-5 day fast during change of seasons. So, since he was so busy, he was only able to do one day. I am just impressed he was able to do that in the midst of the craziness. Regardless, we are thankful for his health and that his body is doing so well, by the grace of God.
He is actually feeling better than I am! Overall, the last couple months have been better than the first. But I still have days (like this last weekend) that I just don't feel well at all. People have said you feel better after 12 weeks, and it didn't happen. Then I heard 16, again didn't happen. And now I am at 18 and I still am struggling a bit. Hopefully I will feel better soon. But on a fun note, this is the first week that I have heard multiple times that people are seeing a little baby bump. I definitely see it a ton. I know it is nothing compared to what it will be. But in my opinion, it is hard not to notice! :) I also went to the doctor today and Baby Barnes has a strong heartbeat still! It was so amazing to hear. If it is going by old wives tales, we are having a girl....the heartbeat has been almost 160 the whole way through! Regardless, we will know a week from this Friday! We anticipate that appointment every day, and are counting down the days til we know if it is a little Caleb or little Julie. :) Awe, either way....we are just so in love!
So in the meantime, I am trying to do my best at getting the house in order. Last week I tackled my bedroom closet. And today I worked on paper management. There isn't a bill, record, or sheet of paper out of place....all filed away where it should be. Next will be attempting to purge Caleb's closet of all the things he has no idea is in there. One thing at a time....it will come together. I only have energy for a little bit at a time though.
It's just one day at a time here at our house. Nothing exciting....but we are incredibly thankful for that. Simple living and loving it.....
Caleb has been working such long hours. Last week he put in literally 80 hours. Between his regular job at the school, practice, an away game that was over three hours away, homecoming week (powder puff game to do security for one night, the homecoming game another, and also the dance another)....well, he was go-go-go for six days straight. We are so thankful though! His body held up great!
And while being that busy, he also included one day of fasting in the midst. Last spring he read a book on conquering arthritis. As part of it he did a week fast and is supposed to do a 3-5 day fast during change of seasons. So, since he was so busy, he was only able to do one day. I am just impressed he was able to do that in the midst of the craziness. Regardless, we are thankful for his health and that his body is doing so well, by the grace of God.
He is actually feeling better than I am! Overall, the last couple months have been better than the first. But I still have days (like this last weekend) that I just don't feel well at all. People have said you feel better after 12 weeks, and it didn't happen. Then I heard 16, again didn't happen. And now I am at 18 and I still am struggling a bit. Hopefully I will feel better soon. But on a fun note, this is the first week that I have heard multiple times that people are seeing a little baby bump. I definitely see it a ton. I know it is nothing compared to what it will be. But in my opinion, it is hard not to notice! :) I also went to the doctor today and Baby Barnes has a strong heartbeat still! It was so amazing to hear. If it is going by old wives tales, we are having a girl....the heartbeat has been almost 160 the whole way through! Regardless, we will know a week from this Friday! We anticipate that appointment every day, and are counting down the days til we know if it is a little Caleb or little Julie. :) Awe, either way....we are just so in love!
So in the meantime, I am trying to do my best at getting the house in order. Last week I tackled my bedroom closet. And today I worked on paper management. There isn't a bill, record, or sheet of paper out of place....all filed away where it should be. Next will be attempting to purge Caleb's closet of all the things he has no idea is in there. One thing at a time....it will come together. I only have energy for a little bit at a time though.
It's just one day at a time here at our house. Nothing exciting....but we are incredibly thankful for that. Simple living and loving it.....
Monday, September 24, 2012
3 Years Later....
Today is September 24th. Which means I have known my husband for exactly three years today! Considering all we have been through, it feels quite a bit longer to be honest. But with so much certainty, and from the depths of my heart, I am as sure as ever that I am so beyond blessed. I had no clue when I met Caleb, that day I walked into his and Jonah's apartment, what a truly humble, faithful, genuinely good guy Caleb was. He is the most loyal and authentic person that I know. What you see is what you get. Hee hee.....when I think back to that day I met him, I remember him quoting his grandpa in his sweet southern accent. The accent seems to have diminished a little, but he still is quoting the same lines today. lol! :) I love him more today than I did yesterday or the day before that.....my love literally multiplies so many times each day it seems. I am blessed.
Which brings me to a thought I have been having. I am so, so, so humbled at how God has blessed Caleb and I. We are so far from perfect, and when anybody looks at our lives the last year in particular, you know we have had our difficulties. But our relationship is so strong, by the grace of God. I know that so many dream of having a love that is safe and pure and deep. So the natural tendency is to naturally try to make that happen in our own strength. The thing is, you cannot manufacture God's blessings. See, our blessings have come hand-in-hand with the difficulties. And as God has directed our steps, we have tried to just be faithful, as He has been faithful. And as a result of that, God's blessings pour out in abundance. You cannot manufacture true blessings that are from God in your life. That only comes from walking with, trusting, obeying, and loving Him...and they come simply by His grace. And what those blessings look like are different for everybody, and in different seasons. But those blessings are so rich, so wonderful, that there is nothing you could do to just make it happen in your life by simply hard work or wishful thinking. It is by God's love and grace as we navigate through the ups and downs of life. And we are humbled to receive His blessings in our life.
Which, one of those blessings is our little one growing as we speak. :) I have to say that some days people have said, "oh I can see the bump just a little now!" and it makes me oh so excited! And then days like yesterday I laugh cause I am still wearing some of my "normal" clothes and people said I didn't look to pregnant. But, as of today, I am officially 17 weeks. Which means, I should start feeling the baby move sometimes soon. Sometimes I think my stomach growling from my new incredible appetite will wake it up! And people are split still if they are guessing boy or girl....most say boy. But I have got more girl responses recently! We will find out on October 12th! Ahhhh, can't wait!!!!!
Here is a picture Caleb took of me yesterday. Although some say I don't look pregnant....my waist is officially 7&1/2 inches bigger than it normally is. (I go by inches cause I have not owned a scale in years....)
So now on to take my next nap of the day, since it is my day off. I went and ran a bunch of errands this morning and it wiped me out! I don't know what that "burst of energy" in the second trimester that people talk about is about. I am still waiting. :) But at least I am not as queasy, although that still comes if I haven't eaten or get too tired. So....now to take a nap....I mean, after all, its good for the baby right?!?! :)
Which brings me to a thought I have been having. I am so, so, so humbled at how God has blessed Caleb and I. We are so far from perfect, and when anybody looks at our lives the last year in particular, you know we have had our difficulties. But our relationship is so strong, by the grace of God. I know that so many dream of having a love that is safe and pure and deep. So the natural tendency is to naturally try to make that happen in our own strength. The thing is, you cannot manufacture God's blessings. See, our blessings have come hand-in-hand with the difficulties. And as God has directed our steps, we have tried to just be faithful, as He has been faithful. And as a result of that, God's blessings pour out in abundance. You cannot manufacture true blessings that are from God in your life. That only comes from walking with, trusting, obeying, and loving Him...and they come simply by His grace. And what those blessings look like are different for everybody, and in different seasons. But those blessings are so rich, so wonderful, that there is nothing you could do to just make it happen in your life by simply hard work or wishful thinking. It is by God's love and grace as we navigate through the ups and downs of life. And we are humbled to receive His blessings in our life.
Which, one of those blessings is our little one growing as we speak. :) I have to say that some days people have said, "oh I can see the bump just a little now!" and it makes me oh so excited! And then days like yesterday I laugh cause I am still wearing some of my "normal" clothes and people said I didn't look to pregnant. But, as of today, I am officially 17 weeks. Which means, I should start feeling the baby move sometimes soon. Sometimes I think my stomach growling from my new incredible appetite will wake it up! And people are split still if they are guessing boy or girl....most say boy. But I have got more girl responses recently! We will find out on October 12th! Ahhhh, can't wait!!!!!
Here is a picture Caleb took of me yesterday. Although some say I don't look pregnant....my waist is officially 7&1/2 inches bigger than it normally is. (I go by inches cause I have not owned a scale in years....)
So now on to take my next nap of the day, since it is my day off. I went and ran a bunch of errands this morning and it wiped me out! I don't know what that "burst of energy" in the second trimester that people talk about is about. I am still waiting. :) But at least I am not as queasy, although that still comes if I haven't eaten or get too tired. So....now to take a nap....I mean, after all, its good for the baby right?!?! :)
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Coach Barnes and His Team
Caleb has been loving coaching this football season. He is the head Freshman/JV coach this year. Although it takes up quite a bit of time, it is so worth every minute it of. Every day he comes home with stories and is enjoying getting to know and help out the guys. I couldn't think of anybody better for the job of guiding and mentoring these kids! And they just love Caleb, even though he has a high standard for them both on and off the field. As Tami Taylor, on Friday Night Lights, said of her coach husband, he is a "molder of men."
As for me, I love going to support and cheer on the team from bleachers. I am one proud wife.
As for me, I love going to support and cheer on the team from bleachers. I am one proud wife.
Friday, September 14, 2012
Laughter and Deep Thoughts
I really hope that I am not speaking too soon....but maybe, just maybe, the sickness I have felt with this pregnancy is starting to diminish. I feel like the last three days or so days have been a little better than they have been. Oh, I hope its true! I am still as exhausted as ever. Today, after work, I closed my eyes to take a short 15 or 20 minute nap...and didn't wake up until two hours later! I think I needed it.
We have been busy. Although I thought, as the school year started, that things were beginning to slow down, I was wrong. Caleb has only been home before 9pm one night this week. He is loving his new job, but he is definitely busy. But it is only for a season.
So as he is off doing his security duties at a football game tonight, I am able to be home and organize the house and organize my thoughts.
There are so many things I want to remember as I go throughout my day as I experience being pregnant.
One funny thing that happened. The night before last, Caleb looked at me with a huge smile on his face and said, "Oh look at you! You are starting to look a little more pregnant!" (I seemed to have "popped out" a little more quickly this week.) I responded by spinning around and asking him, "Does my back side look pregnant?" He proceeds to innocently tell me (ladies get this), "All of you just looks a little more pregnant." I quickly spun around again and exclaimed, "My bum is NOT supposed to look pregnant! Are you saying it has gotten big?!!?!" And he was like, "Oh no, that is not what I meant. I said you are looking a little pregnant. Did you hear the word 'little'?!?!?" hahaha! Poor guy. But if that weren't enough (haha), later I asked him, "How big do you think I will get?" (It was dark and I had a smile on my face that he couldn't see hahahaha!) And he quickly responded by saying, "Oh no, no, no! I am NOT going to answer that question. That is a set up and I am not going there." Smart man. He learned his lesson. LOL! :) Awe, we have fun. :)
I am starting to get a little bigger and today I put it on my shopping list that I am going to need to get some belly bands. That means I am going to truly start looking pregnant soon! (Versus like I have eaten too much pizza, which I have. haha!)
And then a really cool thing I thought of the other day that I don't want to forget....
I was driving to work and I was singing a worship song about how God works everything together for our good and how His love for us never changes. I was kinda getting teary-eyed singing it. And then it struck me, although some internet sites say it may be a few weeks before my baby hears sounds, I bet they still do to some degree. How cool is it that some of the first things that he or she hears is me worshiping the Lord. It brought tears to my eyes even more. And then I laughed to myself cause I thought it was also good that at this point they can't compare my voice to anybody else's either. :) (Lets just say I hope our baby gets Auntie Kate's vocal ability!)
I got thinking more tonight as I was cleaning. Although my baby can't see anything going on right now, I am already teaching it so many things. I was thinking how I want to teach it how much it is loved by God and Caleb and I. And I want it to respect his or her dad like I do. I want them to feel safe. And I started to ask myself....have I been doing the things I can now to make sure those things happen to the best of my ability? I thought back and thought, I don't think Caleb and I have raised our voices at each other a single time since I have been pregnant. I hope that allows the baby to feel safe and start to respect. And I began to be challenged...I think I need to start reading my Bible out loud so the baby can start hearing the Word of God. I went and got out a children's Bible that our family used when we were little...that would be fun to read aloud too. I am going to start praying for insight how I help the baby more, even in the womb.
I guess I am just realizing in a new way what a huge responsibility awaits Caleb and I! Oh, I hope we are ready! Only with God's help every step of the way, that's for sure! One day at a time....
We have been busy. Although I thought, as the school year started, that things were beginning to slow down, I was wrong. Caleb has only been home before 9pm one night this week. He is loving his new job, but he is definitely busy. But it is only for a season.
So as he is off doing his security duties at a football game tonight, I am able to be home and organize the house and organize my thoughts.
There are so many things I want to remember as I go throughout my day as I experience being pregnant.
One funny thing that happened. The night before last, Caleb looked at me with a huge smile on his face and said, "Oh look at you! You are starting to look a little more pregnant!" (I seemed to have "popped out" a little more quickly this week.) I responded by spinning around and asking him, "Does my back side look pregnant?" He proceeds to innocently tell me (ladies get this), "All of you just looks a little more pregnant." I quickly spun around again and exclaimed, "My bum is NOT supposed to look pregnant! Are you saying it has gotten big?!!?!" And he was like, "Oh no, that is not what I meant. I said you are looking a little pregnant. Did you hear the word 'little'?!?!?" hahaha! Poor guy. But if that weren't enough (haha), later I asked him, "How big do you think I will get?" (It was dark and I had a smile on my face that he couldn't see hahahaha!) And he quickly responded by saying, "Oh no, no, no! I am NOT going to answer that question. That is a set up and I am not going there." Smart man. He learned his lesson. LOL! :) Awe, we have fun. :)
I am starting to get a little bigger and today I put it on my shopping list that I am going to need to get some belly bands. That means I am going to truly start looking pregnant soon! (Versus like I have eaten too much pizza, which I have. haha!)
And then a really cool thing I thought of the other day that I don't want to forget....
I was driving to work and I was singing a worship song about how God works everything together for our good and how His love for us never changes. I was kinda getting teary-eyed singing it. And then it struck me, although some internet sites say it may be a few weeks before my baby hears sounds, I bet they still do to some degree. How cool is it that some of the first things that he or she hears is me worshiping the Lord. It brought tears to my eyes even more. And then I laughed to myself cause I thought it was also good that at this point they can't compare my voice to anybody else's either. :) (Lets just say I hope our baby gets Auntie Kate's vocal ability!)
I got thinking more tonight as I was cleaning. Although my baby can't see anything going on right now, I am already teaching it so many things. I was thinking how I want to teach it how much it is loved by God and Caleb and I. And I want it to respect his or her dad like I do. I want them to feel safe. And I started to ask myself....have I been doing the things I can now to make sure those things happen to the best of my ability? I thought back and thought, I don't think Caleb and I have raised our voices at each other a single time since I have been pregnant. I hope that allows the baby to feel safe and start to respect. And I began to be challenged...I think I need to start reading my Bible out loud so the baby can start hearing the Word of God. I went and got out a children's Bible that our family used when we were little...that would be fun to read aloud too. I am going to start praying for insight how I help the baby more, even in the womb.
I guess I am just realizing in a new way what a huge responsibility awaits Caleb and I! Oh, I hope we are ready! Only with God's help every step of the way, that's for sure! One day at a time....
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Days Keep Flying By....
We have felt as though this last month has flown by...where did August go?!?!
The later part of August, Caleb and I felt like we never saw each other. He was busy training for his new job as Director of Security. Plus, since he is the head Freshman football coach at the High School, they had daily doubles, and practices went late or they had coaches meetings. So poor guy was going, going, going. He would leave before 6:30 in the morning and get home after 9pm every night.
Then this last week was the first official week with school in session. It has actually felt like a more reasonable schedule considering practices are done earlier and he is home about 6:30. He is loving his job. And he is excited about being able to impact the kid's lives. Every day he seems to come home with some story and telling me he wants to adopt one of them.
Here he is early morning, on the first day of school. Mr. Barnes...
Me, on the other hand....well, it has been up and down for me. I don't feel quite as sick as I did for the first month or so after I found out I was pregnant. However, I have to say I still don't have nearly as much energy and I still get waves of nausea. Thankfully, I have been able to keep working. But that is about all I have in me.
This was me the very first day of my second trimester. Week 14. People say you can't see a bump. However, my waist was 5 inches bigger than usual when that picture was taken. I think that shirt is the most flattering for my figure right now, so maybe that is why people can't see the bump. The baby is definitely growing!
So as for today....well I love Saturday and days off. I cleaned the kitchen and put in some new Scensy wax and tried to get up and moving. Well, the spotless kitchen inspired me to do some cooking. Plus, my body was really needing some protein. So I made us breakfast for lunch today, to eat after Caleb got home from his ministry training group.
Menu: Flax pancakes, uncured/nitrate free turkey bacon, peppered eggs (cooked in the bacon grease, hee hee), fruit salad of raspberries, strawberries, grapes, kiwi, and banana. Yummmm. I think this means I am starting to slooooowly feel myself again. Cause Caleb hasn't been getting meals like this as often as he normally does the last couple months.
So now on to re-cleaning my kitchen and get a little caught up on my book club reading. P.S. I am still in my PJ's... Did I say I love days off?!??!! :)
The later part of August, Caleb and I felt like we never saw each other. He was busy training for his new job as Director of Security. Plus, since he is the head Freshman football coach at the High School, they had daily doubles, and practices went late or they had coaches meetings. So poor guy was going, going, going. He would leave before 6:30 in the morning and get home after 9pm every night.
Then this last week was the first official week with school in session. It has actually felt like a more reasonable schedule considering practices are done earlier and he is home about 6:30. He is loving his job. And he is excited about being able to impact the kid's lives. Every day he seems to come home with some story and telling me he wants to adopt one of them.
Here he is early morning, on the first day of school. Mr. Barnes...
Me, on the other hand....well, it has been up and down for me. I don't feel quite as sick as I did for the first month or so after I found out I was pregnant. However, I have to say I still don't have nearly as much energy and I still get waves of nausea. Thankfully, I have been able to keep working. But that is about all I have in me.
This was me the very first day of my second trimester. Week 14. People say you can't see a bump. However, my waist was 5 inches bigger than usual when that picture was taken. I think that shirt is the most flattering for my figure right now, so maybe that is why people can't see the bump. The baby is definitely growing!
So as for today....well I love Saturday and days off. I cleaned the kitchen and put in some new Scensy wax and tried to get up and moving. Well, the spotless kitchen inspired me to do some cooking. Plus, my body was really needing some protein. So I made us breakfast for lunch today, to eat after Caleb got home from his ministry training group.
Menu: Flax pancakes, uncured/nitrate free turkey bacon, peppered eggs (cooked in the bacon grease, hee hee), fruit salad of raspberries, strawberries, grapes, kiwi, and banana. Yummmm. I think this means I am starting to slooooowly feel myself again. Cause Caleb hasn't been getting meals like this as often as he normally does the last couple months.
So now on to re-cleaning my kitchen and get a little caught up on my book club reading. P.S. I am still in my PJ's... Did I say I love days off?!??!! :)
Saturday, August 18, 2012
First Trimester Memories
I think the best way to explain how I have felt for the last number of weeks is constantly carsick. Only somebody who gets motion sickness like I do will understand what I mean by that. Sometimes it has been better than others, but regardless, it has just kinda been constant all day long. I know it could be worse, I haven't thrown up. But it still hasn't been easy.
When I think back to these last few months, I have had a lot of food aversions. Greek yogurt, cucumber/dill dip (eek!!) are at the top. But the craziest of all....I haven't been able to stomach CHIPOTLE! I could eat at Chipotle almost every day if I wanted to before this pregnancy. Now I can't even really look at it. It is the WEIRDEST thing!
Foods I have craved: 5 Guys hamburgers, nectarines, cold peaches, salads with herb dressing, grapefruit, grapefruit juice, Hawaiian pizza, hot chicken sandwiches with pepperchinis, and toast. One day only I craved pickles. Another day I craved teriyaki chicken and rice. It is the craziest thing to try to explain to somebody how your body reacts to the thought of foods while pregnant! I am normally very self controlled with what I eat. But these days who knows what I will be able to stomach or not!
My house, well, it isn't so clean and tidy right now. The moment I get home from work, I just want to crash and take a nap. I normally am not a napper at all. Until recently. I love naps these days!
Caleb has been so helpful. He regularly loads and unloads the dishwasher. And he also regularly seems to be going to the store to pick up some random thing I am craving. He is taking care of me (and little Baby). He is such a good husband, and will be such a great dad!
Something that I was not prepared for was how crazy and vivid my dreams are. They are so clear and detailed, and they just feel so real. In fact, this morning Caleb came in to wake me up. I almost said to him, "One sec, let me finish up this phone call..." cause I was dreaming I was on the phone with somebody I know! Also, the night before, I had a dream that my face was utterly deformed. It's pretty crazy.
I have asked a couple friends if they found there were worse at driving when they were pregnant....they said "no". However, for me, I don't know if it is the nausea, exhaustion, or less oxygen to my brain....but I have found that I am not as good at driving as I normally am. When I say I am not feeling well, Caleb now says, "Well, drive safe! Be careful."
Another thing about this pregnancy.....I can't listen to or sing worship songs without getting teary! Maybe its just the hormones. Maybe I am just so thankful. Or tired. But worship songs have got to me! God is just so good. And He is so real and near. I love Him.
All to say, I am hoping what they say is true....that with the second trimester comes feeling energetic and "yourself" again.
In the meantime, we are so excited our little one is growing. It is quite the miracle. Caleb has been talking to him or her and this morning was even singing to it. I keep thinking I am showing, until everybody around me tells me I am not. hahaha!
So this Monday I will be 12 weeks. I can hardly believe it. How are we going to wait another two months to find out if it is a boy or girl!?!?! I have to add that 95% of people think it is a boy. Maybe two or three people have said girl. Multiple people (my dad, sister, and brother-in-law) all call it "him" on accident. I keep saying she is going to have identity issues if it is a girl. We will see!
Regardless, we are just thankful. Boy or girl, it doesn't matter. We are just praying for a healthy baby.
We are blessed. And we are oh so excited!!!.....
When I think back to these last few months, I have had a lot of food aversions. Greek yogurt, cucumber/dill dip (eek!!) are at the top. But the craziest of all....I haven't been able to stomach CHIPOTLE! I could eat at Chipotle almost every day if I wanted to before this pregnancy. Now I can't even really look at it. It is the WEIRDEST thing!
Foods I have craved: 5 Guys hamburgers, nectarines, cold peaches, salads with herb dressing, grapefruit, grapefruit juice, Hawaiian pizza, hot chicken sandwiches with pepperchinis, and toast. One day only I craved pickles. Another day I craved teriyaki chicken and rice. It is the craziest thing to try to explain to somebody how your body reacts to the thought of foods while pregnant! I am normally very self controlled with what I eat. But these days who knows what I will be able to stomach or not!
My house, well, it isn't so clean and tidy right now. The moment I get home from work, I just want to crash and take a nap. I normally am not a napper at all. Until recently. I love naps these days!
Caleb has been so helpful. He regularly loads and unloads the dishwasher. And he also regularly seems to be going to the store to pick up some random thing I am craving. He is taking care of me (and little Baby). He is such a good husband, and will be such a great dad!
Something that I was not prepared for was how crazy and vivid my dreams are. They are so clear and detailed, and they just feel so real. In fact, this morning Caleb came in to wake me up. I almost said to him, "One sec, let me finish up this phone call..." cause I was dreaming I was on the phone with somebody I know! Also, the night before, I had a dream that my face was utterly deformed. It's pretty crazy.
I have asked a couple friends if they found there were worse at driving when they were pregnant....they said "no". However, for me, I don't know if it is the nausea, exhaustion, or less oxygen to my brain....but I have found that I am not as good at driving as I normally am. When I say I am not feeling well, Caleb now says, "Well, drive safe! Be careful."
Another thing about this pregnancy.....I can't listen to or sing worship songs without getting teary! Maybe its just the hormones. Maybe I am just so thankful. Or tired. But worship songs have got to me! God is just so good. And He is so real and near. I love Him.
All to say, I am hoping what they say is true....that with the second trimester comes feeling energetic and "yourself" again.
In the meantime, we are so excited our little one is growing. It is quite the miracle. Caleb has been talking to him or her and this morning was even singing to it. I keep thinking I am showing, until everybody around me tells me I am not. hahaha!
So this Monday I will be 12 weeks. I can hardly believe it. How are we going to wait another two months to find out if it is a boy or girl!?!?! I have to add that 95% of people think it is a boy. Maybe two or three people have said girl. Multiple people (my dad, sister, and brother-in-law) all call it "him" on accident. I keep saying she is going to have identity issues if it is a girl. We will see!
Regardless, we are just thankful. Boy or girl, it doesn't matter. We are just praying for a healthy baby.
We are blessed. And we are oh so excited!!!.....
Monday, August 13, 2012
First Day at the New Job
I feel like it was the first day of school today...although that won't come until the first week in September. But this morning we just got Caleb off for his first day at his new job. Although his previous job was very good to him during the last year, we are on to a new and exciting opportunity ahead of us!
Caleb is now the Director of Security at a local school district about 20 miles from where we are at. He is also the head Freshman football coach. When I step back to think about it, it is such a perfect job for him. The main reason is that he will be able to impact the lives of the kids he works with. I couldn't think of anybody better to do that!
So today is a day of meetings with the football coaches, the superintendent, and a board meeting later tonight. I may go down there and help him set up his office in between and bring him lunch. The next couple weeks will be training for the security job and doing more of the coaching aspect of his job. Then, come Sept 6th, school will be in session!
This job really came at such a wonderful time. He will have a school schedule for the most part (ie, Christmas' off, summers, etc....and spring break is only a couple weeks after my due date!). God is taking care of us. And we are trusting that He is going to continue to as we embark on this new endeavor.
So we are praying that Caleb is able to be a sponge and soak up all the info that he needs, that he will have wisdom and discernment to be able to do his job well, that he is will have eyes to see what is really going on with the kids and know how to love and help them, and that his health will continue to improve daily so he can do his job well. All of these things we are dependent on God for. And we know He is faithful.
On a side note, it was so fun to see my handsome husband all dressed up for work. He has been wearing shorts and a t-shirt to work the last couple years. This morning he looked so sharp and handsome. We prayed together before he took off. And as he walked away I was just so proud of who he is.
I got a good one. :)
Caleb is now the Director of Security at a local school district about 20 miles from where we are at. He is also the head Freshman football coach. When I step back to think about it, it is such a perfect job for him. The main reason is that he will be able to impact the lives of the kids he works with. I couldn't think of anybody better to do that!
So today is a day of meetings with the football coaches, the superintendent, and a board meeting later tonight. I may go down there and help him set up his office in between and bring him lunch. The next couple weeks will be training for the security job and doing more of the coaching aspect of his job. Then, come Sept 6th, school will be in session!
This job really came at such a wonderful time. He will have a school schedule for the most part (ie, Christmas' off, summers, etc....and spring break is only a couple weeks after my due date!). God is taking care of us. And we are trusting that He is going to continue to as we embark on this new endeavor.
So we are praying that Caleb is able to be a sponge and soak up all the info that he needs, that he will have wisdom and discernment to be able to do his job well, that he is will have eyes to see what is really going on with the kids and know how to love and help them, and that his health will continue to improve daily so he can do his job well. All of these things we are dependent on God for. And we know He is faithful.
On a side note, it was so fun to see my handsome husband all dressed up for work. He has been wearing shorts and a t-shirt to work the last couple years. This morning he looked so sharp and handsome. We prayed together before he took off. And as he walked away I was just so proud of who he is.
I got a good one. :)
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Our Family's Time of Blessing
I sit here as Caleb works late tonight and try to collect my thoughts. How do I put words to the emotions I am feeling right now? They are so important that I just want to have them documented.
The last 24 hours for our family have been priceless, so precious and personal, that there just don't seem to be words to express them.
Yesterday at 4:45 we walked into the doctor's office, and about 15 minutes later we got to see our new little baby for the very first time! It took our breath away, and we are soooo in love. As Caleb held my hand, he said, "Wow! Look at him (and I interrupted and said "or her") move!" The doctor commented on how much of a mover and shaker this baby was...oh my, I wonder if that is an indicator of our future! haha! And she said the heartbeat was great and strong. She said although I am only 9 &1/2 weeks, that she is confident I have less than 5% chance of miscarriage. So we are telling people a little early, before I am fully done with my first trimester! The due date is March 4th.
Then, after the ultrasound, Caleb gave me a kiss and jetted out for a final interview as I finished up the doctors appointment. We have really been praying for this job cause it would free us up so much financially as we prepare to add to our little family. Well, today at about 2:00, Caleb got the call that he was offered the job and he accepted!
Every single thing about all that is happening in our family is 100% completely from the hand of God Himself!
To think where we were just six months ago to today, is unbelievable.
From where Caleb's health was...to now his thriving body and me carrying life in my own! To him getting a job that he is not as qualified for as the other people he was up against (although it is the perfect job for him, and I am so confident that he will excel at it)....it is all just a miracle!
I feel like our season of joy has come. I called my sister crying tonight (both of joy and the hormones I am sure hahaha) just saying how amazed I am. Humbled. Awestruck.
The crazy part. When I think back to this last year, I am thankful. I am thankful because of how it strengthened Caleb and my relationship...it made us bonded together in a profound way. I saw God provide, when we had no resources ourselves. I saw God heal my husband...it is a miracle he still has feet...and they even said it could take his life. To see how his body is thriving now and how incredibly he has come back...I know it has been God who has healed. And it has made me deeply appreciate these blessings He is now giving us. What a contrast!
But God has been the same through it all. He has been good, He is good, and He will always remain good.
So we are going into a season of blessings. But we are blessed so we can be a blessing. We want to bless those in our lives. And we want to bless this little one with a home where their parents love them, each other, and most importantly Jesus.
God has given us, on loan, this little life...ahhhh...how amazing is that?!!? We will need His help as we do our best to raise them. But how cool of God to give us a little reminder right off the bat that He is the one whose baby it really is! He is providing us with a means to provide for the baby, who He loves so much. How amazing that He trusts Caleb and I with it!
My heart is full. Tears are flowing. Worship is rising.
I am just thankful. Simply thankful.
The last 24 hours for our family have been priceless, so precious and personal, that there just don't seem to be words to express them.
Yesterday at 4:45 we walked into the doctor's office, and about 15 minutes later we got to see our new little baby for the very first time! It took our breath away, and we are soooo in love. As Caleb held my hand, he said, "Wow! Look at him (and I interrupted and said "or her") move!" The doctor commented on how much of a mover and shaker this baby was...oh my, I wonder if that is an indicator of our future! haha! And she said the heartbeat was great and strong. She said although I am only 9 &1/2 weeks, that she is confident I have less than 5% chance of miscarriage. So we are telling people a little early, before I am fully done with my first trimester! The due date is March 4th.
Then, after the ultrasound, Caleb gave me a kiss and jetted out for a final interview as I finished up the doctors appointment. We have really been praying for this job cause it would free us up so much financially as we prepare to add to our little family. Well, today at about 2:00, Caleb got the call that he was offered the job and he accepted!
Every single thing about all that is happening in our family is 100% completely from the hand of God Himself!
To think where we were just six months ago to today, is unbelievable.
From where Caleb's health was...to now his thriving body and me carrying life in my own! To him getting a job that he is not as qualified for as the other people he was up against (although it is the perfect job for him, and I am so confident that he will excel at it)....it is all just a miracle!
I feel like our season of joy has come. I called my sister crying tonight (both of joy and the hormones I am sure hahaha) just saying how amazed I am. Humbled. Awestruck.
The crazy part. When I think back to this last year, I am thankful. I am thankful because of how it strengthened Caleb and my relationship...it made us bonded together in a profound way. I saw God provide, when we had no resources ourselves. I saw God heal my husband...it is a miracle he still has feet...and they even said it could take his life. To see how his body is thriving now and how incredibly he has come back...I know it has been God who has healed. And it has made me deeply appreciate these blessings He is now giving us. What a contrast!
But God has been the same through it all. He has been good, He is good, and He will always remain good.
So we are going into a season of blessings. But we are blessed so we can be a blessing. We want to bless those in our lives. And we want to bless this little one with a home where their parents love them, each other, and most importantly Jesus.
God has given us, on loan, this little life...ahhhh...how amazing is that?!!? We will need His help as we do our best to raise them. But how cool of God to give us a little reminder right off the bat that He is the one whose baby it really is! He is providing us with a means to provide for the baby, who He loves so much. How amazing that He trusts Caleb and I with it!
My heart is full. Tears are flowing. Worship is rising.
I am just thankful. Simply thankful.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Caleb's Parents Visit Oregon
Last week was such a great week! Caleb's parents came for a visit for the week. It was the perfect excuse to take a week off of work. :) And, boy, did we have fun acting as tour guides!
The first day we went to the Colombia Rive Gorge. We went up the Washington state side first, so that we could have a picnic at my favorite spot. But first we pulled over at Cape Horn for a great view.
Then on to one of my most favorite places, Beacon Rock. :) The most beautiful place ever.
Then we were on our way to the Oregon side to visit Bonneville Dam, which I hadn't been to since a field trip in 5th grade. But Caleb wanted to see the 450 lb/70 yr old sturgeon, who is over 10 feet long. :)
Our final stop that day was Multnomah Falls. I don't think you can ever go there too many times or get tired of it! In the picture below, Bob and Sheila are on the far right of the bridge. :)
We ended up just hanging out in town the next day and relaxing. But the day after that, we took them to Cannon Beach...and loved it! It was a perfect day! Lunch at Mo's (oh, gotta love the clam chowder!), a walk on the beach, and then drove up to Ecola State Park for a good view. And we stopped by a fruit stand on the way home to get some fresh marionberries and Logan berry jam! yumm!
The next day, Caleb took off with his dad and I took Sheila to Powell's Books. Being the book lover that she is, she said it was better than Disneyland...and I know she meant it! Next time she is here, I think we will need to take her there again, and make it an all day event. And then, after Powell's, we had a fabulous lunch together.
It was such a great week of catching up and enjoying one another! Hopefully we can plan another visit really soon! We have such a great family.....
The first day we went to the Colombia Rive Gorge. We went up the Washington state side first, so that we could have a picnic at my favorite spot. But first we pulled over at Cape Horn for a great view.
Then on to one of my most favorite places, Beacon Rock. :) The most beautiful place ever.
Then we were on our way to the Oregon side to visit Bonneville Dam, which I hadn't been to since a field trip in 5th grade. But Caleb wanted to see the 450 lb/70 yr old sturgeon, who is over 10 feet long. :)
Our final stop that day was Multnomah Falls. I don't think you can ever go there too many times or get tired of it! In the picture below, Bob and Sheila are on the far right of the bridge. :)
We ended up just hanging out in town the next day and relaxing. But the day after that, we took them to Cannon Beach...and loved it! It was a perfect day! Lunch at Mo's (oh, gotta love the clam chowder!), a walk on the beach, and then drove up to Ecola State Park for a good view. And we stopped by a fruit stand on the way home to get some fresh marionberries and Logan berry jam! yumm!
The next day, Caleb took off with his dad and I took Sheila to Powell's Books. Being the book lover that she is, she said it was better than Disneyland...and I know she meant it! Next time she is here, I think we will need to take her there again, and make it an all day event. And then, after Powell's, we had a fabulous lunch together.
It was such a great week of catching up and enjoying one another! Hopefully we can plan another visit really soon! We have such a great family.....
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