I am SO ready to have this baby, I think I might go insane! I don't remember feeling this way with Brennan at all. I am miserable. My back hurts so bad that nothing touches the pain (of course Tylenol and a hot bath are all I can do at this point anyway.) I crave chocolate 24/7. I could eat chocolate for every meal and snacks in between. I get out of breath just walking up a flight of stairs (hard to believe I ran 26.2 miles not even a year ago.) Telling myself how grateful I should be to have such "easy" pregnancies (meaning no complications or bed rests) is not working anymore. Carrying a child is the greatest blessing any woman could ask for, but it doesn't take away the pain. Not to mention I cry over almost anything. Of course, today I feel like I had legitimate reason to cry, but once I started I couldn't stop. I came home from church and was feeling so bad--my back, my side, and everything in between.
Tuesday is my next doctor appointment. Last week I had not dilated any, but since Thursday I've been having Braxton-Hicks contractions a lot more frequently and for some reason, they come about every 10 minutes in the evening time. Each day that goes by the contractions get more and more uncomfortable, but I still think they are the false contractions. Although, I did read that when the false contractions get more frequent, labor is usually right around the corner. I know that Chad gets really tired of hearing me whine, because I get tired of it, too. But, I just had to let the tears go today. I am so READY. I think.....
Not to mention I am so restless. I have been off work all last week and I'll be off this week until Thursday because my boss is on vacation. I never, ever want to be a full-time stay-at-home-mom. (But as bad as I want to go back to work, I'm worried about being uncomfortable on my feet all day--plus after my boss has been out over a week, it will be INSANE!) There's only so much cleaning and cooking and washing that can be done. I was so restless today that when I heard a commercial on the radio for people to volunteer at the Red Cross Shelters, I thought to myself I should go do that. Chad and I went on a date night Friday and did a little shopping, and I wanted to get out of the house today, but there's only so much money (and gas) we can burn and we've burned it all. Plus, it's a lose-lose situation. Walking a lot makes me uncomfortable, but sitting around makes me uncomfortable and restless. I also didn't want to get in the traffic today. Highway 49 and Interstate 55 were insane. Just gotta keep telling myself: I'm almost there. (I think I can, I think I can, I think I can......)
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Now it's time to start worrying....
But I still don't think it gives a right to gasoline companies to mess with us. Everyone is buckling down for Gustav, and I understand the concern running through everyone's mind. It seems everyone is so gun-shy after Katrina, with all rights to be. It seems like everyone affected by Katrina (even those of us this far inland) can separate their lives into two categories: Pre-Katrina and Post-Katrina. Most of us living away from the coastline would hardly be concerned about this storm right now it it weren't for what devastated us all three years ago. We all know someone affected by Katrina.
I'm especially getting concerned after being on the Coast just a month ago. I saw how people's lives are still being affected by Katrina and all the FEMA trailers and cottages in and around the town we stayed in. The people of the Coast have been in my prayers, and I'm certainly not wishing for the storm to hit ANYONE on land. But, at this point it's inevitable that someone is going to be devastated. I only pray that God's hand will be on it and that those who were MOST affected by Katrina will be least affected by Gustav. Of course, I feel like it's unfair to say that because that is only wishing it on someone else, but there are many who could stand to be spared right now.
I'm especially getting concerned after being on the Coast just a month ago. I saw how people's lives are still being affected by Katrina and all the FEMA trailers and cottages in and around the town we stayed in. The people of the Coast have been in my prayers, and I'm certainly not wishing for the storm to hit ANYONE on land. But, at this point it's inevitable that someone is going to be devastated. I only pray that God's hand will be on it and that those who were MOST affected by Katrina will be least affected by Gustav. Of course, I feel like it's unfair to say that because that is only wishing it on someone else, but there are many who could stand to be spared right now.
Ethan's nursery
These pictures are of Ethan's nursery. It is still incomplete (no pictures hanging on the wall--with the exception of the sailboat picture.) But, I think it's turning out cute so far. It will look even better once things are hanging on the wall AND with a baby in it.
(Sorry, I forgot to rotate a couple of the pictures, but I'm not going back and reloading them.... you get the idea.)
Friday, August 29, 2008
Fired Up!
I haven taken a step in the right direction: I have an application in hand to register to vote in Rankin County. Yes, I AM currently registered, but in Hinds County. I never updated my information after we moved 3 years ago.
I am registering to vote NOT because I am all for a particular candidate, but instead because there is one particular candidate whose face I do not care to see for the next four years of my life. Neither the Republican candidate nor the Democratic candidate am I totally head-over-heels about, but there is one who I'd rather see in office over the other. Right now, since they are neck and neck in popularity, it goes back to the whole Bush/Gore election: One vote CAN make a difference. After hearing so much hype and hot air from the DNC (no, I did NOT watch it-just the news) I am all fired up. I had no intentions of even caring to vote this year (I know--not very American), but after this week, sign me up!!!
(p.s. In case you were wondering--if there was any room left to wonder--without giving away my vote, I AM a conservative 110%. Nor do I care if you have a problem with that.)
I am registering to vote NOT because I am all for a particular candidate, but instead because there is one particular candidate whose face I do not care to see for the next four years of my life. Neither the Republican candidate nor the Democratic candidate am I totally head-over-heels about, but there is one who I'd rather see in office over the other. Right now, since they are neck and neck in popularity, it goes back to the whole Bush/Gore election: One vote CAN make a difference. After hearing so much hype and hot air from the DNC (no, I did NOT watch it-just the news) I am all fired up. I had no intentions of even caring to vote this year (I know--not very American), but after this week, sign me up!!!
(p.s. In case you were wondering--if there was any room left to wonder--without giving away my vote, I AM a conservative 110%. Nor do I care if you have a problem with that.)
Thursday, August 28, 2008
The paci- fairy...
Yes, he's related to the tooth fairy. Yes, he leaves money in exchange for all the pacifiers of the world...
So, Chad and I decided to break Brennan of his nasty pacifier habit. (Chad had more to do with it than me...) Seeing as how Brennan is four and needs to give up the pacifier. But, I didn't see any harm in it. He only took it at night and neither his teeth nor his speech have been affected by it. It's not like I allowed him to walk around with it constantly. It never left his bed. But lately he's obviously been grinding his teeth and has almost chewed the rubber off. We were afraid he'd choke on it in the middle of the night. Anyway, Chad and I convinced Brennan there was a paci-fairy, and that if he was such a big boy, it was time to let the paci-fairy have his paci and he would leave Bren some money and we could go to the store and buy whatever toy he wanted. Brennan went to bed knowing he would get some money if the pacifier stayed under his pillow, and he would get to go to the store and buy a red and blue truck like he saw on tv. So Brennan woke up this morning with $2 under his pillow. (Hey, give us a break--it might as well have been $2,000 to him.) We went to Toys R Us and he picked out two cars. He even took his money out of his wallet and gave it to the lady at the register like he was all grown up. Even though both cars together cost about $13 more than he had, the plan all along was to let him think the fairy had left him enough to get whatever he wanted as long as he got rid of the pacifier. Luckily, for Chad and I, we knew our child was easy to please. Give him anything with wheels on it and he's satisfied. Now, we'll see what tonight brings when he realizes his paci really is gone forever....
So, Chad and I decided to break Brennan of his nasty pacifier habit. (Chad had more to do with it than me...) Seeing as how Brennan is four and needs to give up the pacifier. But, I didn't see any harm in it. He only took it at night and neither his teeth nor his speech have been affected by it. It's not like I allowed him to walk around with it constantly. It never left his bed. But lately he's obviously been grinding his teeth and has almost chewed the rubber off. We were afraid he'd choke on it in the middle of the night. Anyway, Chad and I convinced Brennan there was a paci-fairy, and that if he was such a big boy, it was time to let the paci-fairy have his paci and he would leave Bren some money and we could go to the store and buy whatever toy he wanted. Brennan went to bed knowing he would get some money if the pacifier stayed under his pillow, and he would get to go to the store and buy a red and blue truck like he saw on tv. So Brennan woke up this morning with $2 under his pillow. (Hey, give us a break--it might as well have been $2,000 to him.) We went to Toys R Us and he picked out two cars. He even took his money out of his wallet and gave it to the lady at the register like he was all grown up. Even though both cars together cost about $13 more than he had, the plan all along was to let him think the fairy had left him enough to get whatever he wanted as long as he got rid of the pacifier. Luckily, for Chad and I, we knew our child was easy to please. Give him anything with wheels on it and he's satisfied. Now, we'll see what tonight brings when he realizes his paci really is gone forever....
Here in the real world....
Three things: #1) I know we should be concerned about Gustav. Seriously. I do. But until we know the definite path, no one should freak out or go overboard. Including gas companies. #2) Why in the heck did my insurance premiums skyrocket?! #3) Should it be legal for EVERYTHING to be so expensive?
About subject #1. I left Florence this morning to go run some errands. When I left, every gas station on the corner of 49 in Florence had gas for about $3.36, give or take a couple of cents. I decided to go to Kroger in Richland and get it for what I THOUGHT would be cheaper. On the way I passed Mac's Gas on 49 which usually has gas for cheap(er). It was already at $3.59. I passed Texaco also on 49 and the gas was $3.41. I went on down to Kroger and-- I kid you not!-- the pumps were about 3 cars deep and the price of gas there was $3.42. Well, I decided to turn around and go back down to Texaco and get it for $3.41. In the two minutes it took me to turn around and get back to Texaco, they had upped the price there to $3.49. Talk about irritated! After I got some gas and headed back towards Jackson, I looked over at Kroger and I counted 5 cars lined up at one pump at Kroger. What the #%*&% ?! When I came back down 49 about 3 hours later all the stations had upped the pump prices about 10 cents.
#3) (I know I skipped #2, but I'll come back to that in a minute.) I went to Michael's craft store on County Line Road to have a picture framed for the baby's nursery. It's a fairly small picture. Nothing extravagant. I went to Michael's because they had custom framing for 40% off. I had it set in my mind that it wouldn't cost anymore than about $30 to get this picture framed. The total came to $89-and-some-odd-cents. $89. For a matte and frame. And I didn't go over the top on anything. Chad and I have had a couple of pictures framed in our house before. Pictures twice the size. One is about 3 times the size. I never paid more than $40 for them. And on one I even got the most expensive, non-glare glass. My jaw hit the floor when he told me the price. I wanted to laugh at him because I thought he was playing a dirty trick on me. Unfortunately, he was NOT. I guess cardboard and colored wood have skyrocketed, too. Again, what the #%&% ?!
#2) So, as I got home from all my shopping adventures there were two envelopes in the mail I thought looked important. ( I only open mail if I think it might be important.) One was addressed to Brennan from Blue Cross and the other was addressed to me from my insurance company. In both letters they stated that our insurance premiums would be going up effective 11/01/08. Brennan's is going up by about $20. Mine is going up $32. THIRTY TWO DOLLARS! BUT (because they are so generous), I can keep my same premium if I want to increase my deductible. No, thanks. I don't want to increase my deductible--it's already ridiculous! And no, thanks, I don't want to pay $32 more a month for my stinkin' insurance. Give the working class a break here!
How does anyone afford to live these days? Especially the ones who can't manage money properly. I look at all these gas-guzzling SUV's on the road and see all these gigantic houses being built all over the place and wonder how in the world people do it! And have 3 or 4 kids to feed on top of it all! Even doctors I think would be struggling if their malpractice insurance is as ridiculous as our health insurance. And I know one feeds off the other.... What a vicious, vicious cycle. I need a nap....
About subject #1. I left Florence this morning to go run some errands. When I left, every gas station on the corner of 49 in Florence had gas for about $3.36, give or take a couple of cents. I decided to go to Kroger in Richland and get it for what I THOUGHT would be cheaper. On the way I passed Mac's Gas on 49 which usually has gas for cheap(er). It was already at $3.59. I passed Texaco also on 49 and the gas was $3.41. I went on down to Kroger and-- I kid you not!-- the pumps were about 3 cars deep and the price of gas there was $3.42. Well, I decided to turn around and go back down to Texaco and get it for $3.41. In the two minutes it took me to turn around and get back to Texaco, they had upped the price there to $3.49. Talk about irritated! After I got some gas and headed back towards Jackson, I looked over at Kroger and I counted 5 cars lined up at one pump at Kroger. What the #%*&% ?! When I came back down 49 about 3 hours later all the stations had upped the pump prices about 10 cents.
#3) (I know I skipped #2, but I'll come back to that in a minute.) I went to Michael's craft store on County Line Road to have a picture framed for the baby's nursery. It's a fairly small picture. Nothing extravagant. I went to Michael's because they had custom framing for 40% off. I had it set in my mind that it wouldn't cost anymore than about $30 to get this picture framed. The total came to $89-and-some-odd-cents. $89. For a matte and frame. And I didn't go over the top on anything. Chad and I have had a couple of pictures framed in our house before. Pictures twice the size. One is about 3 times the size. I never paid more than $40 for them. And on one I even got the most expensive, non-glare glass. My jaw hit the floor when he told me the price. I wanted to laugh at him because I thought he was playing a dirty trick on me. Unfortunately, he was NOT. I guess cardboard and colored wood have skyrocketed, too. Again, what the #%&% ?!
#2) So, as I got home from all my shopping adventures there were two envelopes in the mail I thought looked important. ( I only open mail if I think it might be important.) One was addressed to Brennan from Blue Cross and the other was addressed to me from my insurance company. In both letters they stated that our insurance premiums would be going up effective 11/01/08. Brennan's is going up by about $20. Mine is going up $32. THIRTY TWO DOLLARS! BUT (because they are so generous), I can keep my same premium if I want to increase my deductible. No, thanks. I don't want to increase my deductible--it's already ridiculous! And no, thanks, I don't want to pay $32 more a month for my stinkin' insurance. Give the working class a break here!
How does anyone afford to live these days? Especially the ones who can't manage money properly. I look at all these gas-guzzling SUV's on the road and see all these gigantic houses being built all over the place and wonder how in the world people do it! And have 3 or 4 kids to feed on top of it all! Even doctors I think would be struggling if their malpractice insurance is as ridiculous as our health insurance. And I know one feeds off the other.... What a vicious, vicious cycle. I need a nap....
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
If I had a dollar....
If I had a dollar for every time in the past 3 weeks or so that someone has asked me: a)how much longer do I have?, b)how am I feeling?, c)is it a boy or a girl?, or d)what is the name going to be?, I would have been able to pay off Chad's student loans, pay off our house, buy a new car, and pay for both of my kid's future college education. I know that people are just being polite and most are genuinely concerned and caring, but even strangers in the grocery store line quiz me about my pregnancy. I REALLY wish I did have a dollar for every time someone asked me about the pregnancy!
When people ask me about how I'm feeling at this point, I WANT to reply like this (especially when it's a man): "Well, tell me how YOU would feel with a six-and-a-half pound baby crammed between your pelvis and your rib cage squashing all internal organs, trying to consume plenty of liquids (you know, to keep things flowing right because nothing is working the way it's supposed to anymore), but in turn having to go pee every 5 minutes (literally), heartburn with one bite too much, and 'cankles', let's not forget the 'cankles'.... And that's just the front side of my body. Want to get started on the back?! Not to mention I don't know what's gotten wider: my rear-end or my hips. And of course we won't even get started on my emotional instability right now." That's how I WANT to reply.
This is what comes out of my mouth: "Great! Thanks for asking. I'm just ready", (with a light little chuckle right after.)
But, even though I'm cranky, my back hurts, and I can't go more than 30 seconds without thinking about chocolate or having to go pee, I'm grateful that so many people are concerned about me and the baby. As much as it sometimes drives me crazy, I know I would be complaining if no one ever asked me how I was feeling.
Speaking of chocolate....Fundraisers are back in session right along with school. As soon as I got to the door at church tonight I was hit up by Sunday School kids selling chocolate. I couldn't say no. By the time Chad got to church my purse was full of chocolate. No, really. It was full. But to justify it, (especially to Chad, when I opened my suitcase of a purse full of chocolate) it was to support HIS high school alumni (a place I've never been a big fan of) and I couldn't say no to my Sunday School kids. I'm a total sucker.....
When people ask me about how I'm feeling at this point, I WANT to reply like this (especially when it's a man): "Well, tell me how YOU would feel with a six-and-a-half pound baby crammed between your pelvis and your rib cage squashing all internal organs, trying to consume plenty of liquids (you know, to keep things flowing right because nothing is working the way it's supposed to anymore), but in turn having to go pee every 5 minutes (literally), heartburn with one bite too much, and 'cankles', let's not forget the 'cankles'.... And that's just the front side of my body. Want to get started on the back?! Not to mention I don't know what's gotten wider: my rear-end or my hips. And of course we won't even get started on my emotional instability right now." That's how I WANT to reply.
This is what comes out of my mouth: "Great! Thanks for asking. I'm just ready", (with a light little chuckle right after.)
But, even though I'm cranky, my back hurts, and I can't go more than 30 seconds without thinking about chocolate or having to go pee, I'm grateful that so many people are concerned about me and the baby. As much as it sometimes drives me crazy, I know I would be complaining if no one ever asked me how I was feeling.
Speaking of chocolate....Fundraisers are back in session right along with school. As soon as I got to the door at church tonight I was hit up by Sunday School kids selling chocolate. I couldn't say no. By the time Chad got to church my purse was full of chocolate. No, really. It was full. But to justify it, (especially to Chad, when I opened my suitcase of a purse full of chocolate) it was to support HIS high school alumni (a place I've never been a big fan of) and I couldn't say no to my Sunday School kids. I'm a total sucker.....
Monday, August 25, 2008
36 weeks...
Went to the doctor this morning. They did a growth sonogram. The baby weighs around 6 pounds, 4 ounces right now and everything looks good. My blood pressure is still good (it shot up with Brennan which is why they induced me last time.) I have not dilated any nor have I been having any contractions-- just the painless, harmless Braxton-Hicks contractions.
Meanwhile Chad and I have been getting the nursery ready. He hung curtains last night and got all of Brennan's old clothes down from the attic so I can wash them this week while I'm off and get everything organized. We've been getting lots of gifts. I got about 6 more yesterday at church from people who couldn't make it to my shower last week. I think I've gotten more gifts this time than I did with Brennan. We've been very lucky and blessed that we've gotten things we really need. Someone at church even gave us a $50 gift card from Wal-Mart, which I thought was very generous! As soon as the crib bedding comes in that we ordered I will take a picture of the room and post it on here. I think it's going to be a cute one!
This Thursday marks 2 weeks left of pregnancy! Almost there....
Meanwhile Chad and I have been getting the nursery ready. He hung curtains last night and got all of Brennan's old clothes down from the attic so I can wash them this week while I'm off and get everything organized. We've been getting lots of gifts. I got about 6 more yesterday at church from people who couldn't make it to my shower last week. I think I've gotten more gifts this time than I did with Brennan. We've been very lucky and blessed that we've gotten things we really need. Someone at church even gave us a $50 gift card from Wal-Mart, which I thought was very generous! As soon as the crib bedding comes in that we ordered I will take a picture of the room and post it on here. I think it's going to be a cute one!
This Thursday marks 2 weeks left of pregnancy! Almost there....
Saturday, August 23, 2008
I am a sucker....
I just happened upon a radio commercial advertising the Brick Street Market in Clinton as we were on our way to Dogwood last night. Let's just say anything with the word "Market" in it, I'm a sucker for it most times. All those handmade trinkets, and jewelry I would never even wear, and walking around in a smothering crowd in 90 degree heat. Something about it just does my little heart good. I will probably come away with nothing, but I just can't help myself. It's so much fun. As soon as I can drag the other members of my family out of bed, we are there!
Anyway, last night Chad and I took what will probably be our last shopping excursion for a while. We went to Babies R Us and Target and bought the things we needed, but didn't get for our showers. We got a new stroller because we borrowed one from Chad's sister when we had Brennan. This new one is actually just a frame that the car seat we already have will snap into. We got crib sheets, mattress pads, nursing supplies, and more diapers. Now all we need is the baby.
I have the next week-and-a-half off from work and I'm not quite sure what do to with myself. I've already gone kind of stir crazy just Thursday and Friday. Short of getting the nursery ready for Ethan's arrival and washing all the baby gear, there's not much else for me to do but sit back and wait. And be tired and lazy. I should enjoy these last few days of non-strenuous activities, and rest, but I just have too much on my mind to be able to settle down. It's going to be a loooong week.
Anyway, last night Chad and I took what will probably be our last shopping excursion for a while. We went to Babies R Us and Target and bought the things we needed, but didn't get for our showers. We got a new stroller because we borrowed one from Chad's sister when we had Brennan. This new one is actually just a frame that the car seat we already have will snap into. We got crib sheets, mattress pads, nursing supplies, and more diapers. Now all we need is the baby.
I have the next week-and-a-half off from work and I'm not quite sure what do to with myself. I've already gone kind of stir crazy just Thursday and Friday. Short of getting the nursery ready for Ethan's arrival and washing all the baby gear, there's not much else for me to do but sit back and wait. And be tired and lazy. I should enjoy these last few days of non-strenuous activities, and rest, but I just have too much on my mind to be able to settle down. It's going to be a loooong week.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Counting down....
Three weeks from today is the big day. Although, it wouldn't hurt my feelings one bit if Ethan decided to move that date up a little.... I go Monday for a growth sonogram to make sure the baby is growing and developing like he should and she will also check to see if I have dilated any. (I'm keeping my fingers crossed on that one, wishing and hoping.)
My back hurts constantly and my lungs feel as though they've been squished to half their normal size and are functioning at half their capacity. Although my ankles occasionally get swollen if I've had a long day, I am thankful that my face isn't swollen like it was with Brennan. It seemed like everything expanded with Brennan. Now it's just my hips and rear. (Weight Watchers here I come.) I'll just be glad to have most of my body back to myself. I plan on nursing, so it may be awhile before I get to be totally selfish and relish in having me, myself, and I just to me.
My back hurts constantly and my lungs feel as though they've been squished to half their normal size and are functioning at half their capacity. Although my ankles occasionally get swollen if I've had a long day, I am thankful that my face isn't swollen like it was with Brennan. It seemed like everything expanded with Brennan. Now it's just my hips and rear. (Weight Watchers here I come.) I'll just be glad to have most of my body back to myself. I plan on nursing, so it may be awhile before I get to be totally selfish and relish in having me, myself, and I just to me.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Pictures from the weekend...
These are pictures of Brennan and Chad painting Ethan's room. My niece, Bayleigh. My fish cake from the baby shower, and one picture of me opening presents. For some reason there's about 35 pictures, all of me holding up a present I had just opened......
I had to come back and proofread my latest blog from last night, since it was a drug-induced entry. I took and Ambien with my vitamins thinking it would take an hour to kick in. I was trying to get stuff done around the house before I went to get ready for bed and the next think I remember is stumbling around the house like a drunken wino. I wanted to show Chad all the stuff we got, but I couldn't sit up or walk straight. I didn't really like that feeling. It was yucky. Powerful stuff, but I was just glad to get a good night's sleep. I can't remember sleeping that well in months.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
I had my third and final baby shower today. My sisters-in-law and my mother-in-law and my grandmother-in-law all helped put together a shower at my church. It was a really good turnout and we got things that we really needed. God is good. He knew we needed three basic things: money, diapers, and clothes. Well, from family and close family friends Chad and I now have enough money to put back into savings what we took out to buy our baby furniture. We got many diapers in all sizes and we received a lot of cute clothes for the fall and winter. I had saved all of Brennan's clothes, but since he was a summer baby and this will be a fall/winter baby, all of his old clothes might not work. So God definitely knew our needs and provided through my family and all my friends at church. I am excited and can't wait to be able to use these things. My sister-in-law had a cake made that matches the rug and the bedding set we will be using. Too cute.
Yesterday Chad and Brennan painted the nursery. Finally. It turned out to be a nice relaxing shade of gray. Very light gray. It looks great.
So between all my wonderful showers we have everything we could possibly need. Unless someone want to open up a college savings fund for us.... LOL. We have gift cards, money, diapers, wipes, and clothes for the cooler season that will be upon us soon.
As I'm typing this I think my Ambien has kicked in. Faster than expected. It's all running together.... The doctor had to write me a prescription when I went on Friday so that I could sleep. I had a slight emotional breakdown at my visit on Friday. Mainly due to lack of sleep.
But, I'm thankful at how good God is to us. He has blessed us in many, many ways.
Ready for a dive in the hot bath and clean sheets. GOODNITE.
Yesterday Chad and Brennan painted the nursery. Finally. It turned out to be a nice relaxing shade of gray. Very light gray. It looks great.
So between all my wonderful showers we have everything we could possibly need. Unless someone want to open up a college savings fund for us.... LOL. We have gift cards, money, diapers, wipes, and clothes for the cooler season that will be upon us soon.
As I'm typing this I think my Ambien has kicked in. Faster than expected. It's all running together.... The doctor had to write me a prescription when I went on Friday so that I could sleep. I had a slight emotional breakdown at my visit on Friday. Mainly due to lack of sleep.
But, I'm thankful at how good God is to us. He has blessed us in many, many ways.
Ready for a dive in the hot bath and clean sheets. GOODNITE.
Friday, August 15, 2008
This entry in my blog is in no way meant to offend anyone. Earlier this week someone I know got very offended at something I said I believed in. This person now refuses to have anything to do with me. I've prayed for peace over the situation because it really bothers me that someone could share their views with me, but get offended when I share my views with them. That person will probably never see this blog, but I'm going to say what's on my mind and heart anyway and I don't really care what anyone thinks about my beliefs. If I do offend anyone it's not intentional, just the things that I value and take to heart and they are the same beliefs and values I want my children to have.
First and foremost, I believe that this nation was founded under Christian laws and values. Yet, I believe in freedom of speech and freedom of religion. As long as no one gets hurt.
I believe there is no right religion, but there is one God. One Creator. One Judge. The God I worship is the same God that is worshiped by Methodists, Catholics, and Presbyterians and many other religions. You can choose to worship whatever god you want as long as you don't get offended by the God I choose to worship.
I am pro-life, but I believe in capital punishment. How can someone justify thinking it is inhumane to kill a cold-blooded murderer (who was innocent until proven guilty by a court of law), but yet think it is okay for a woman to choose death for an innocent baby. I believe from the moment of conception, before that little heart even begins to beat for the first time, it was God's will and God's plan. It is, however, a choice made by a woman and/or a man to do what they want. I don't necessarily believe a woman should have a choice to "dispose of" what God has created. But, I can't change the world or their beliefs, so for those that think otherwise, it is not my job to judge. I will not refuse to be your friend, nor will I look down on you for what you believe.
I believe in the institution of marriage the way that God designed it to be. Because you live a lifestyle that may be different than what I believe doesn't mean I will not speak to you or show ignorance to you. I have friends and acquaintances whom I adore but have chosen a different lifestyle for themselves. I have never looked down on them or judged them for that, nor do I intend to.
I believe in the right to bear arms. No one ever has a right to come in and take what I have worked so hard for. It is mine. If you ask and respect me and my things I will gladly share. It is nobody's right to do harm to me because they want something I have. Get a job.
I believe the welfare system is backwards, upside down, and everywhere but where it should be. Too many people in this country are taking advantage of those of us who work hard for the things we have. I believe every able bodied, able soul should, again, get a job.
I believe, as I said earlier, in freedom of speech. But if you want to get angry and tell me your opinion and views on issues, don't be disrespectful when I share mine with you. I tolerated your opinion. I respected you when you talked and I listened, now you should do the same for me. If we don't agree on something, let's just agree to disagree and move on.
I believe my job as a Christian is to be the best example I can be in the life I live. I have made decisions in my life that have had painful, traumatic consequences. The only person who should judge me is God Himself. By living a life as a Christian I don't always make the choices I should make, nor do I set the example I should set. But I do learn from the choices and mistakes I have made and then I go from there in my walk with God.
Ultimately I do believe that this nation is falling away from the core values and principles it was founded on. I will never cram my opinions or religion down anyone's throat, but I will pray for this country and the shape it is in. I believe a leader who prays to God-- THE God-- daily and seeks guidance and wisdom from Him would be the best choice this nation could make. However, there are many, MANY people who feel otherwise. I can't change that. I just have to realize that my God will grant peace and wisdom to those of us at the bottom who still believe.
First and foremost, I believe that this nation was founded under Christian laws and values. Yet, I believe in freedom of speech and freedom of religion. As long as no one gets hurt.
I believe there is no right religion, but there is one God. One Creator. One Judge. The God I worship is the same God that is worshiped by Methodists, Catholics, and Presbyterians and many other religions. You can choose to worship whatever god you want as long as you don't get offended by the God I choose to worship.
I am pro-life, but I believe in capital punishment. How can someone justify thinking it is inhumane to kill a cold-blooded murderer (who was innocent until proven guilty by a court of law), but yet think it is okay for a woman to choose death for an innocent baby. I believe from the moment of conception, before that little heart even begins to beat for the first time, it was God's will and God's plan. It is, however, a choice made by a woman and/or a man to do what they want. I don't necessarily believe a woman should have a choice to "dispose of" what God has created. But, I can't change the world or their beliefs, so for those that think otherwise, it is not my job to judge. I will not refuse to be your friend, nor will I look down on you for what you believe.
I believe in the institution of marriage the way that God designed it to be. Because you live a lifestyle that may be different than what I believe doesn't mean I will not speak to you or show ignorance to you. I have friends and acquaintances whom I adore but have chosen a different lifestyle for themselves. I have never looked down on them or judged them for that, nor do I intend to.
I believe in the right to bear arms. No one ever has a right to come in and take what I have worked so hard for. It is mine. If you ask and respect me and my things I will gladly share. It is nobody's right to do harm to me because they want something I have. Get a job.
I believe the welfare system is backwards, upside down, and everywhere but where it should be. Too many people in this country are taking advantage of those of us who work hard for the things we have. I believe every able bodied, able soul should, again, get a job.
I believe, as I said earlier, in freedom of speech. But if you want to get angry and tell me your opinion and views on issues, don't be disrespectful when I share mine with you. I tolerated your opinion. I respected you when you talked and I listened, now you should do the same for me. If we don't agree on something, let's just agree to disagree and move on.
I believe my job as a Christian is to be the best example I can be in the life I live. I have made decisions in my life that have had painful, traumatic consequences. The only person who should judge me is God Himself. By living a life as a Christian I don't always make the choices I should make, nor do I set the example I should set. But I do learn from the choices and mistakes I have made and then I go from there in my walk with God.
Ultimately I do believe that this nation is falling away from the core values and principles it was founded on. I will never cram my opinions or religion down anyone's throat, but I will pray for this country and the shape it is in. I believe a leader who prays to God-- THE God-- daily and seeks guidance and wisdom from Him would be the best choice this nation could make. However, there are many, MANY people who feel otherwise. I can't change that. I just have to realize that my God will grant peace and wisdom to those of us at the bottom who still believe.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Book Review
I just finished "Nineteen Minutes" by Jodi Picoult. One word: Excellent. It was a page-turner from the start and it had a very surprising twist at the end. It's about a school shooting and it is very true to life. Something that could happen at any school at anytime. Scary, but realistic. What I love about Jodi Picoult is that all of her books that I've read are on very controversial subjects, but she writes about things without taking sides. You are able to see things from all of the characters viewpoints without it being offensive to someone with different viewpoints. Next up: "Plain Truth" by the same author. It's a slightly older book, but looks to be another page-turner.
I know that people are probably sick of the rain, especially when the grass is knee-high and there doesn't look to be any sign of drying out soon, but something I was thinking about as I was falling asleep last night: Maybe this was God's answer to so many peoples prayers. After all these complaints (including myself) of the utility bills rising to almost unjustifiable amounts, God cooled it off just long enough to give our air conditioners a break. It was so nice yesterday to not have to hear the air run constantly. Every time it turns on lately I feel like I may as well be shredding dollar bills through our paper shredder.
Meanwhile, I decided to try (for a hundredth time) to go purse shopping last night. It is true what they say: It is definitely harder to spend cold, hard cash than it is to use plastic. Most of the time I use my debit card. Well, actually all the time. I never carry cash. It's easier to swipe that card than to think about the cash being pulled directly from my hand. But I had gotten some cash for my birthday last week and decided it was time for a new purse. It's been almost a year since I bought the last one and I've been using that same one since. It was MY money to do whatever I wanted to do with it. I'm a bargain shopper, although these days I'm beginning to think I'm losing my touch. I like to get the most for my money, and it really hurt my feelings to pay almost $30 for a purse. It was on sale and I also had a $10 off coupon, and it still cost $30. I winced just a little as the money was taken out of my hands-- not to mention it has taken me over 2 weeks and several shopping excursions to finally bite the bullet and fork over the money. Sadly there was no feeling of excitement over this new purse like I was hoping for. It's just another purse to carry more junk in. I bought another book last night (another Jodi Picoult) with some of my birthday money and I felt more excited about the book than my new shiny, red purse. What is wrong with me?
Meanwhile, I decided to try (for a hundredth time) to go purse shopping last night. It is true what they say: It is definitely harder to spend cold, hard cash than it is to use plastic. Most of the time I use my debit card. Well, actually all the time. I never carry cash. It's easier to swipe that card than to think about the cash being pulled directly from my hand. But I had gotten some cash for my birthday last week and decided it was time for a new purse. It's been almost a year since I bought the last one and I've been using that same one since. It was MY money to do whatever I wanted to do with it. I'm a bargain shopper, although these days I'm beginning to think I'm losing my touch. I like to get the most for my money, and it really hurt my feelings to pay almost $30 for a purse. It was on sale and I also had a $10 off coupon, and it still cost $30. I winced just a little as the money was taken out of my hands-- not to mention it has taken me over 2 weeks and several shopping excursions to finally bite the bullet and fork over the money. Sadly there was no feeling of excitement over this new purse like I was hoping for. It's just another purse to carry more junk in. I bought another book last night (another Jodi Picoult) with some of my birthday money and I felt more excited about the book than my new shiny, red purse. What is wrong with me?
Monday, August 11, 2008
A baby shower!
My work threw me my second shower for Baby Ethan. It was so much fun and I got such cute things!
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Time for bed....
Back from vacation! I've never been more ready to get home.... Remind me never to go on a hot, summer vacation when 8 months pregnant. Don't get me wrong, I had a good time, but I am TIRED! Not to mention we had some bad news from home the first day of vacation: my aunt died from complications related to Lupus. Ultimately it was her heart that gave out while she was out of state visiting her son and daughter-in-law and new grandchild. Her two children found her. She was 40 years old.
Will post more later. Including pictures. For now it is time to go curl up in my own bed and continue with the book I can't seem to put down (Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult--two thumbs WAY up).
Will post more later. Including pictures. For now it is time to go curl up in my own bed and continue with the book I can't seem to put down (Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult--two thumbs WAY up).
Sunday, August 3, 2008
A tragic day in the Miller household...
As I was visiting the WAPT website to check the weather, I saw the horrible, horrible news that a possible tropical depression is forming in the Gulf of Mexico. It has the possibility of increasing in strength over the next 24 to 48 hours. It is located currently about 150 miles SW of Pensacola. This is the worst news EVER!!! I think I might start a prayer chain for the next 24 hours......
Friday, August 1, 2008
This is getting serious!
One more thing about my trip to the doctor this morning... This is just how flighty I have become in recent weeks:
The clinic I go to is on the 4th floor of the Colonnades building. As we were leaving I let Brennan push the down button. When we got in the elevator he jumped in (literally). I told him what number button to push. The elevator wouldn't go anywhere. The number would light up for one second and the door would try to close, but then it would open back up. I told him to push the button harder. He did. So finally, after several tries, we got out of the elevator, let the door close, waited a few seconds, and tried to start the process over again. We pushed the down button, the same elevator opened up. We got BACK on, and pushed the same number button AGAIN. So then I started thinking Brennan messed up the elevator by jumping on instead of walking in. (Come on, he only weighs 36 pounds.) I told him not to jump on the elevator anymore because now it was stuck. Finally someone rounds the corner to get on the elevator and I let Brennan push the down button. I was going to act totally oblivious if the elevator still didn't work. Instead, another elevator FINALLY opens up, and it is only then that I realize I was on the 4th floor and we were pushing the 4th floor button. Repeatedly. What has happened to my brain?! Duh.
The clinic I go to is on the 4th floor of the Colonnades building. As we were leaving I let Brennan push the down button. When we got in the elevator he jumped in (literally). I told him what number button to push. The elevator wouldn't go anywhere. The number would light up for one second and the door would try to close, but then it would open back up. I told him to push the button harder. He did. So finally, after several tries, we got out of the elevator, let the door close, waited a few seconds, and tried to start the process over again. We pushed the down button, the same elevator opened up. We got BACK on, and pushed the same number button AGAIN. So then I started thinking Brennan messed up the elevator by jumping on instead of walking in. (Come on, he only weighs 36 pounds.) I told him not to jump on the elevator anymore because now it was stuck. Finally someone rounds the corner to get on the elevator and I let Brennan push the down button. I was going to act totally oblivious if the elevator still didn't work. Instead, another elevator FINALLY opens up, and it is only then that I realize I was on the 4th floor and we were pushing the 4th floor button. Repeatedly. What has happened to my brain?! Duh.
33 weeks
Had my 33 week check-up first thing this morning. Everything is still going well. I've gained just the right amount of weight, and my blood pressure is good. Even though I'm a lot smaller this time around, I feel really, really big. A lot bigger than I remember feeling at 33 weeks with Brennan. But, my weight isn't near what it was with Brennan, thank goodness.
Six weeks from yesterday will be the big day. Unless he decides to come before then. And we haven't even picked out a paint color for the nursery.....
Monday night when I get off of work we are leaving for the beach. I am so excited! Especially since the parents are helping pay our way. We are riding with my parents down there and they said we won't even have to chip in for gas!!! I'm ready for a vacation.
Six weeks from yesterday will be the big day. Unless he decides to come before then. And we haven't even picked out a paint color for the nursery.....
Monday night when I get off of work we are leaving for the beach. I am so excited! Especially since the parents are helping pay our way. We are riding with my parents down there and they said we won't even have to chip in for gas!!! I'm ready for a vacation.
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