January 31, 2010

~10 Weeks~

Yaayyyy we made it into the double digits. What will the little munchkin be up to this week?

-You are about and inch and 1/2 long and at about the size of a prune and you are growing by "leaps and bounds"!
-Your bones and cartilage are forming
-The little indentations on your legs are forming into your knobby little knees and ankles. (and your elbows are already working!)
-Your teeth are forming under your gums (I swear What to Expect has been telling me that for weeks now.. long process I guess?)
-Annndddd if you are a boy (I'm truly up for either or at this point.. I can't decide what I want you to be), your little manhood parts are already producing testosterone.

Our first real doctors appointment is coming up soon! We go to hear the heartbeat next Thursday!

We have been lazy, pathetic human beings since Thursday. We completely abused the .. ya know.. treacherous icy conditions out there wet roads from the ice melting to have an excuse to stay in and do absolutely nothing. We finally did get a little stir crazy yesterday and went out with some friends to a steakhouse. Delish! Check out these "cheese sticks" we ordered as an appetizer..
AAHHHHMAZING. I swear the picture doesn't do them justice.. biggest cheese sticks I've ever seen in my life. I pinky swear I only had 1/2 of one. I left there feeling not so hot (understatement) and I didn't even eat enough to warrant an upset stomach. I think the smells became wayyy too much for me to handle, which led to a not so fun night at home.
Anywho.. off to get ready for church. I'll be giving thanks to God for those unreal cheese sticks.

January 28, 2010

Addyson Kay

My niece, Addyson, was born at 6:04 tonight. She weighs 6lbs 3oz and is 19 inches long. Such a tiny little thing and I wish I could hold that little angel in my hands.. now! But I did get a peak at some pics thanks to her other aunt, Brittney. I took the liberty of stealing it off FB so y'all could get a sneak peak :)

There she is with daddy... trust me... lots more to come as soon as I can get my hands on them. Now off to find a cute little "I get my good looks from my auntie" onesies!

We miraculously made it through about 5 hours without power. All is well now it seems. I'm happy to have heat again. Hubs is happy to have TV.

Exciting Day!

First of all - my beautiful and amazingly strong SIL is in labor right now as we speak!!! I'm getting steady texts from my MIL updating me how she is doing. It's not easy (clearly) but mama and baby are both doing well and I'll have my first little precious niece by the end of the day! I can't wait to overwhelm you all with tons of pictures of her. I'm mostly excited to find out what her name is. Despite my many complaints, badgering, begging, and attempted trickery, they have done a great job at keeping her name a secret (I could never manage to do that) and I CANNOT WAIT to know what it is!! I've been saying lots of prayers for her today and I hope everything goes as smooth as possible!

It's storming like crazy around here today!! Right now I believe it's just rain and A TON of wind, but it doesn't look like it's far from turning into ice.. which is supposed to accumulate quite a bit. They haven't closed down post and said they were going to continue as normal today and of course that has me a nervous nelly. I have Trey there, expecting to be there all day, and the weatherman telling me that it's going to get bad and doesn't suggest any travel. Nice. Good thing hubs is pretty confident in his "bid dawg daddy" truck..... which btw I think you should all know... in it, this husband of mine at times listens to music such as Lady Gaga (he's loving her new song), Kelly Clarkson.. singing loudly.. "I want you to know.. that it doesn't matter", and best of all is when I realized last night that he knows all the words to Rihanna's new song (Hard) and we couldn't get out of the truck until it was over.... Yes, that's correct... my big strong Army, countrified husband has a secret pop music side and I find it to be the most hilarious thing in the world.

January 27, 2010

Answer Time

So maybe I'm a few days late, but better late than never right? A big ~woop woop~ to those of you that asked me the questions I know you're just dying to know the answers to! There weren't many, but that is A-OK with me.

Jaci @ Perpetual Newlyweds asked me: When I was a child, what did I want to be when I grew up? When I was little I wanted to be either a Veterinarian or a Elementary school teacher. I don't remember exactly, but being a Vet I'm sure went out the window when I learned I had to do mean things, like put animals down or something. I still might like to finish my degree in Early Childhood Development maybe, so I'm not far off from my other dream. I still wonder what I want to be when I grow up! For right now, a mommy :)

Yollie27 (I think that's what you go by!) at The Awful Truth asked how I feel about possibly delivering our baby alone if Trey is deployed. hmm.. good question and I'll try to keep this as short as possible and be honest at the same time. Honestly? It scares the absolute crap out of me. We are moving to a new post when I will be about 6 or a little over more months pregnant. Hubs unit is already deployed and we are not sure if they will send him over to join them or just keep him Rear D (stay home). Selfishly, I want him to stay. He's torn. He of course wants to be here for me and the baby. He in no way wants to miss that, but he is also anxious to meet his unit. I'm terrified. I'm scared that I'll get there and will end up going in to labor alone. I'm scared I won't be able to get to the hospital. I'm scared to go through this and not have him to help with everything when it's all said and done. I REALLY want him to be able to experience all of this. Realistically, I know other wives will step up and help out. But it's not the same as your husband being there. And I am NOT good at depending on people! On the other hand, I have pressure from my parents to go home and get an apartment there if he leaves. I know it makes sense to do that, but as of right now.. I don't want to do that. But that's a whole 'nother post in and of itself. When it comes right down to it, I depend on my faith. When we decided we we're going to start trying, I prayed every single night. Not for God to give this to us right now because we want it and what mama wants mama gets, but for Him to give us this miracle of a gift when He knew we could handle it... when His timing was right. He gave it to us right away, literally. So I KNOW whatever comes our way, we can handle it. Knowing this makes me feel so much better when I really focus on it, but it doesn't always stop the worrying, of course. Great question, and thanks for checking out my blog!

Steph @ Watching Airplanes asked me two questions. The first was what is my favorite food? Girl, I LOVE me some food so this is not simple, one answer question! Pre-food aversion self, my favorite was always Mexican (quesedillas, nachos, tacos, yum!). Pizza, I can never ever turn pizza away. Waffles and Pancakes. Ice Cream. (It's a wonder I don't weight over 300 lbs.) Cucumbers and tomatoes, cut up with salt and pepper on them (cucumbers are best when you add a little vinegar). And anything with cream cheese as an ingredient. Now.. I eat what I can. Right now I'm very into carbs it seems. Bagels and cream cheese, spaghetti, tacos (if I make them at home, I can't seem to go into a Mexican restaurant), oranges, apples, Edemame beans, and this delish salad from buffalo wild wings.
Her second question was, What is my best memory as a child? This is a very hard one to answer.. I'm not sure if I'll be able to stick to just one. I had a great childhood! Of course, family vacations to Maine stick out. We would go every year and had so much fun. It's pretty simple, but I just remember being on the beach with my family... burying my mum's feet in the sand (child labor), seeing if I can swim out as far as my dad, and riding waves with my brother and us making "meatballs" together.. duh.. what else do you make in the sand? I had a great group of neighborhood friends. We spent hours and hours together, playing house, kick the can, "school", swimming, sledding, etc. We still keep in contact to this day, one of them even being one of my best friends to this day. I'm actually in her wedding this May! We lived in a duplex with my aunt, uncle and 3 cousins next door from when I was in 3rd grade up until we moved at the end of my 7th grade year. That made for some pretty awesome memories... just spending time together and of course our yearly lobster makes every summer! That was a fun question.. thanks!

Shelze @ Shelze's World asked how I feel our life has changed now that Trey and I have become part of the Army family? Another great and thought provoking question! Our life has changed IMMENSELY! I think the main thing that I've learned is not to take each other, friends, and family for granted. I think back to our life before he left for Basic and I just have to shake my head. I don't think either one of us appreciated each other half as much as we do now. I think of the insanely stupid things we used to fight over... and I mean knock down dragging kind of fights. That just doesn't happen anymore. And not because either one of us are holding back, all that time apart (almost 7 full months) just changed us.. for the better. Not to mention, it's changed the way I look at him. I don't know the right words for it, but I'm basically in awe of him. He's my very own hero (swoon)
It's also made me appreciate friends and family more as well. Everyone knows how infatuated I am with my family and I never in a million years imagined I'd have a long distance relationship with them!! So every second we get together, every minute we have to chat, and every time I get to see their faces on Skype... cherished! Let's see, I've always been able to chat up anyone.. even a fly on the wall, so I find it pretty easy to make friends, but it's funny how these other couples that you JUST MEET become SO important to you SO fast!! They are your family away from family and that is so comforting and so very important! Lastly, it's made me appreciate everyone else that lives this lifestyle that much more. Every single other soldier and the families that stand by to them have a very very special place in my heart.

Cindy @ Army Brats and Me asked what is one positive thing I would like to do as a Military Spouse? I cannot wait to get involved! It's been hard here, just because there is no real FRG group for his training unit. I've heard rumors one was trying to get together, but so far nothing! Anyways, when we get to new post, I plan to be very active in our FRG. I want to help out with as much as I can. I'm not sure what all is exactly involved in that.. you know.. besides what I see on Army Wives, but I so badly want to be a part of it.

SCH @ Uncommon Life, Uncommon Joy asked two questions as well. What do I enjoy most about Military life? There are a few things. I love the opportunity of travel that we have. Although, I do miss our families every.single.day... I'm very thankful to be able to see parts of the world that we may never have otherwise seen. Is the town we're in right now very exciting, NO not at all. But when else would I have ever gone to OKC? Or all the other little towns and places we've visited? I also love meeting new people which will be our life now. I love the fact that we meet other couples, and just being a part of this life, you have an instant connection and respect for each other. Her second question was What do I miss most about civilian life? Easy and simple answer. Being within driving distance of our families.

Kate @ Sometimes Life Is Messy asked: If I could go ANYWHERE in the world, where would it be and why? Easy one for me! Ireland!! Why? One... I have family history there. It's been said that my grandfather's family even had their own bar named McGrane's! (their last name) How cool is that? Two.. because I've just heard it's so stinking beautiful.. I'd jump at the chance to go!!

And last, but not least, Jennifer @ Crazy Shenanigans asked me what is one place I'd love to live and one place I'd never want to live. I'll base this one off of our recent post choices we were given.. or not given I guess. Two places I really really wanted to go were Fort Stewart, GA and Fort Carson, CO. Those choices were on some of our friends list but not ours. I was really hoping we'd get one of those, so I guess I can say for right now, that's where I would love to live! One of our choices was Korea and I DON'T ever want to live there! No thank you!

Thank you so much for participating in my Big 100 celebration.. I see I have a few new followers.. I'll be checking your blogs out soon :) This has already been a super long post.. I'll just finish up by letting you know 2 things: 1. There has been construction going on outside of our apartment for about a week and 1/2 now. Between their blaring radio, saws, and hammers, I am thisclose to going INSANE. 2. A blizzard is a comin' tomorrow!! We're expecting quite a mess! So if you don't hear from me for a while.. it's because our power is out and my laptop is incapable of holding battery power...

January 26, 2010

This and That

It feels like I haven't been on here in a long long time and I have a lot of catching up to do! I don't know what's been up with me, but blogging has been the LAST thing I have wanted to do lately! *I know.. shame on me*

Not much has been going on around here (part of the reason I haven't been so into blogging). I have been feeling much much better. Thanks for all of your well wishes!! Morning sickness seems to have just been a fleeting feeling *knock on wood* although there is still just a few foods I can stand to eat. Unfortunately, mainly carbs, but I have only gained just under a pound so far so I must be doing something right!

I'm in my 9th week now, but I'm going to skip my weekly report out of part laziness, part it's not really too too interesting this week so I'm going to spare you :) It is very exciting though to almost be in the double digits - as well as in my last month of my first trimester!!

I had a "group" appointment with a nurse last Friday. It was interesting and just a little disappointing. She just went over very general information. We'll go over the disappointing points first. All I know to compare myself with are my friends back home who are or recently have been pregnant. They had ultrasounds a few times throughout their pregnancy, starting as early as 8 or 9 weeks. So I'm thinking I'll be getting one at my first doctor's appointment, right? Not so much says military hospital. I'll get one. At 20 weeks. Plain ol' 2D. Enter sad, pouty face. Hubs did agree with me though, when I suggested we pay for a fun fancy 4D at our county hospital though :) Then, she informs us that it is AGAINST THE LAW to tell us the sex of the baby at that 20 week appointment. IS SHE CRAZY or what??? Has anyone ever heard of that?? I certainly never have, and decided to throw that little piece of info out the window and pretend like I never heard that! Exciting piece of info: I have my 12 week appointment with the doc on Feb 11th. I'll (hopefully we'll) get to hear the heartbeat for the first time!! I'm really hoping Trey will be able to come! Most entertaining part of the day: The nurse we saw does the pregnancy PT for the soldiers so she's like a fitness expert. She tells us that the best exercise we can do is walking and swimming. Seriously, y'all, someone yelled this question out... "that's not gonna make my baby drown?", with a very concerned look on her face. I, of course, burst out with a little giggle, thinking she was joking. Not so much. This chick was serious. Woowwwww!!

My SIL's due date was yesterday... no baby yet!! She is scheduled to be induced TOMORROW though. YAAYYYY!!! She is pretty nervous, but I am beyond excited and I really just wish I could be there.. for her and to meet my presh little niece.. my first one!! Ohhh man do I plan on spoiling her. I have the disadvantage of being the long distance auntie so I have to make up for it in other ways!

Our household is verrry boring here lately. All Trey is doing is study study study, homework, and a little more studying. So far it's paying off. He passed last weeks test (after his second chance.. eeeek) and hopefully he'll continue to do great!

I'll be answering the questions I was asked and will post those either tomorrow or Thursday (just trying to be realistic). There aren't many.. but they are good ones!

January 21, 2010

Another Post about Oprah

Yesterday, I watched Monday's Oprah episode that I had DVR'd. When I saw the topic: The most dangerous thing you might be doing with your life (something along those lines) I couldn't resist. I had to know how dangerously I've been living.
It turned out to be a really sad - and informative - episode about using your cell phone.. texting particularly... while driving. I admit, I used to do this almost 100% of the time. It was no big deal to me to text away almost the whole time I was driving. I could handle it... I can practically text without looking at the phone.. right? Not so much. One night I watched Seven Pounds.. that night ended my habit. How could I ever live with myself if I did the unthinkable? If I took someones life because that text was sooooo important.
On the show yesterday, or Monday, they showed a few families who have been affected by this. One story that really stuck with me was about a 9 year old little girl who died. Her mom was driving down their street, on the way home from the doctors office, when she saw flashing police and fire truck lights on said street. Then she saw her daughter's mangled bike. Another lady had been driving down the street, texting away, she never saw the little girl. Can you even imagine??

They say that texting while driving is the equivalent of having 4 drinks and getting behind the wheel. Oprah's doing a No Phone Zone Pledge where you can pledge not to do this anymore. All you have to do is click here.

End my public service announcement of the month. Tomorrow's my group nurse appointment.. should be interesting!
Oh yeah.. and don't forget to post any questions you have for me here. I'll answer on Monday :)

January 18, 2010

Big 100 Celebration

I cannot believe that I have 100 followers... really... i'm floored. It's unreal to me that you all take the time to read about my life and take the time to actually leave me some love on this little blog. I love love love the connections I have made with some of you and consider many of you great friends. For that, I am extremely thankful! To celebrate, I'm going to follow what I've seen many of you do lately. I'm opening up to answer any questions you are just dying to ask. Ask me ANYTHING and I will answer the best I can. I'll keep this open throughout this week and will start answering next Monday!

Something else I thought was pretty neat was this fun little website I found on Amber's page. I've just started reading her blog and already love! Anyways, you can go here to Wordle and it will find the most used words on your blog and make it into a little word picture. I thought it was pretty interesting. It's very easy, so go ahead and give it a try... here is mine!


Wordle: Untitled

hmmm... I wish I knew how to make it bigger, but you get the picture! You'll be able to see your own much better.

January 17, 2010

~8 Weeks~

I googled a picture of what an 8 week fetus looks like and honestly, I thought it was a little disturbing so I decided not to include.. lol

I have had good days and bad days this past week, more good than bad looking back, but man were those bad days bad! I fight slight nausea pretty much throughout the day, but have found ways to calm that. I have A LOT of food aversions. There are not many foods I think of that can make it's way into my mouth without gagging. I found I cannot do yogurt. Eggs make me want to vomit. Chicken made at home? Forget it. Seems to be okay from a restaurant though.. strange. Crackers and cheese put me over the edge. I can't really stomach the thought of anything Mexican, which if you know me, you know I'm pretty distraught over. What have I been loving? I can't get enough apples (or any fruit really, but especially golden delicious apples)! Apple Jacks and a piece of toast every morning. Saltines. Ginger Ale. Sometimes I like a good grilled cheese sammy, but lunch is hard for me. Any form of potato I'm loving (except fries.. those not so much most of the time.. although yesterday I enjoyed them). I used to love broccoli, but now I can't eat it. I am loving edemame though!
I'm ready for a nap every day between 2 and 2:30, never fails. Very few days out of the week do I actually get to take advantage of that though, but when I do... heavenly.
I went dress shopping yesterday with a couple that we've become great friends with. Thank God she was with me because I would have had a mental breakdown. I know by looking at me, no one can tell I am pregnant, but boy do I feel it! In every single inch of my bloated, expanding body. I did not feel good in anything I tried on, except the very last one I tried on that Jess (yes, I've managed to befriend yet another Jessica) pulled off the rack.. that I would have never ever in a millions years picked out. Which also happened to be on sale. Which allowed me to get the most amazing pair of boots ever. Which were originally $110 and I got for $34 with tax. Holla. I'm pretty positive that no boys read this, if there are, I'm sorry... but hello boobs! They wouldn't fit into any of said dresses. If I went big enough to accommodate those puppies, it looked ridiculous every where else on my body. Even the winner needs a little something under to accommodate, but it works perfectly.

Enough about me... here's what our little alien will be up to this week:
  • You are still growing up a storm this week, even more so than last. You measure about 1/2 inch in length and you're about the size of a large raspberry.
  • You are looking more and more human these days (I'll have to stop calling you an alien I guess), as in your lips, nose, eyelids, legs, and back are continuing to take shape.
  • Apparently, you are moving around like crazy in there... wailing around your legs and arms. I cannot wait to actually feel that!

This Friday I go for a group appointment with the nurse. She;ll tell me all about the due date, birthing options, etc. I don't really know what to expect at this one. All I know is that when I leave there, I'll know the date that I'll finally meet with the doctor and hear this little heartbeat. CANNOT WAIT.

January 14, 2010

Just Another Reason....

.... I love love love my husband. If you'd like to be re-visit my other ode to hubby posts go here and here :)

Ugghhhh yesterday was just NOT a good day for me. If there is any truth in that pregnancy glow, it sure wasn't with me yesterday. More like pregnancy green. As in I'm quite sure my face was green all day. After my traumatic shower experience, it just didn't get much better. I'll spare you from details.
Hubs is going through some pretty strenuous training and hardly gets a moment to himself. Clearly he's gone learning Army stuff all day long with a very short lunch break, but then comes home and is doing homework/studying/paper writing with just a break for dinner, then goes to bed. So imagine my guilt, when yesterday I could barely pull myself together to relieve my ever insistent bladder, never mind cook dinner.
Not only does he not complain a bit about any of this... but yesterday he stops by the store to pick me up all kinds of sick girl goodies. You know... ginger ale, saltines, lemon heads (I heard sucking on a lemon flavored hard candy helps). Then came home and heated up (there's gotta be a better way to say that...grrrr) leftover lasagna from the night before, and even kissed my disgusting self! Plus, he refuses to let me feel a second of guilt, reassuring me of how hard I'm working.
Love. That. Man. And one day, when this nauseousness eases up, he will eat like a king again :)

I swear I'm not looking for sympathy comments, so please don't feel like you have to leave them. Really, there's just nothing else going on in my life at them moment, sooooo guess what you get to here about :) And I really do look forward to blogging about more positive aspects... promise!

January 13, 2010

Random Tidbits

There hasn't been much going on in my world except baby makin' ... definitely not enough to form a full blog post at least. It's sad, but here's a few note-worthy points from the last few days...

My mum bought her own copy of What To Expect so she can follow along herself with where me and baby are. I thought that was the cutest and sweetest thing ever.

I FINALLY made it to the gym. I walked 2 miles and called it a day, but I did go! I felt very dizzy afterwards so I wonder what that was about. I'm eating enough and brought a bottle of water with me.

After trying to fight off The Bachelor for 2 weeks, I gave in yesterday and am all caught up now and loving it more than ever. My favorite is Ali. I know who wins because of Spoiler Steve. I won't ruin it for anyone unless you want me to... email me.

I learned this morning that it is NOT okay to shower before breakfast. The hot water + an empty stomach will cause a pregnant woman to damn near black out and dry heave for a very uncomfortable amount of time. I'm still disgustingly nauseous 45 minutes later.

I have a social coming up and a cocktail party, both for Trey's unit. What does one wear to a social at 11:00 in the morning? I'm thinking regular ol' every day clothes, but correct me if I'm wrong. Clearly I'm not talking about a long-sleeved tshirt and sweats or anything.

I think that's all for now. I've gotten 2 awards this week, and didn't want you girls to think I forgot about them. I promise I'll get to them soon! For now, it seems I can't even form a decent paragraph!

January 10, 2010

7 Weeks

Our little alien in 7 weeks today! I feel like everyday that goes by is a huge accomplishment, but I really love these weekly updates. I get so excited to read what's going on in there! So what's happening in my belly this week?

  • You are growing so fast! You are 10,000 times bigger today then you were at conception. You're now about the size of a blueberry :)
  • New brain cells are being generated at the rate of 100 cells per minute.
  • You're mouth and tongue will be forming this week.
  • So will your arm and leg buds, that look like paddle-like appendages and they will start dividing into hand, arm, shoulder, leg, knee and foot segments.
  • You're kidneys are now in place and are beginning to start working. As What To Expect When You're Expecting pointed out, at least I'm not having to change the diapers yet!

Busy week! Honestly, I have not been to the gym even ONCE. I go to bed so determined that I'll go in the morning and it didn't happen at all last week. It's extremely important to me to continue exercising during my pregnancy, but I'm just SOOOOOO exhausted. I feel like a walking zombie almost constantly. I know my body is busy and I have reason to be tired, but a lot of girls exercise the whole time, so I know I can do it!! I'm going to set short goals and I plan to go 3 times this week. IT'S GOING TO HAPPEN. I don't care if I fall asleep on the treadmill :)

As a couple side notes: 1) Can I get an Amen for that Alabama win on Thursday?? 2) The Patriots are playing in the playoffs right now against The Ravens. It hasn't been looking so good so far (we're almost in the 4th quarter), but I did pray for a win in church this morning. God, were you listening? 3) I don't know what is going on, but I'm getting daily Japanese/Chinese/Vietnamese (sorry.. don't know how to tell the difference) comments on just one of my older blogs. I find this so strange. Clearly, I have no clue what in the world they are saying. Has this happened to anyone else?

January 7, 2010

Big Night!

I take a break from the as of late Pregnancy Brain to say this....

Rollllll Tide!!!!!

We'll be heading over a friends house to watch the game with a few other couples. At least until 1/2 time that is. Please, as long as you are not a die hard longhorn fan, please please please send some good Roll Tide juju our way. My husband's favorite team is playing for the National Title. To say his every hope and dream coming true is dependent on tonight would be downplaying how he really feels. Let's just say this - for Bama to win the National Title and for his first child to be born in the same year - he will FOREVER be a content man.

Now imagine his reaction if they lose. Ever seen a grown man cry? (ya know.. besides Tebow?) Sorry, sorry, I had to go there...

January 6, 2010

How we told our families

After taking two pregnancy tests out of pure hope the 2 weeks prior to our vacation (really, I had no business even taking them.. crazy girl), I decided I wasn't going to buy anymore tests until after(if) I was actually late. Of course it was hard to stick to that rule, but the day before Christmas Eve I decided I definitely wasn't going to because I even felt a little crampy.. like I was getting ready to start. I just couldn't stop thinking about it though, and when my mum sent me out to buy some Christmas cookie platters on Christmas Eve, I just couldn't help myself. Especially with the $2 off coupons I had that expired on the 31st burning a whole in my wallet. Besides, if I was, I wanted to know by Christmas so we could tell our parents in a cutesy way!

I took the test as soon as I got back to my parents house, fully expecting to only see one lonely little line. When that 2nd line came up... I don't even know how to explain how I felt! Shock. Disbelief. An adrenaline rush maybe? I was shaking and had the hugest smile ever on my face when I called Trey to come upstairs. He knew right away from the way I said his name. We did the happy dance and hugged for a bit then went back downstairs and acted like everything was normal for an ENTIRE DAY. How.. I'm not really sure. It was actually kind of fun to have that secret to ourselves for a bit though. We spent the entire day at his parents house and said nothing.

When we got home late that night, my mum was rushing me to put all of my wrapped gifts under the tree so she could bring the Santa gifts out. I made cards for both her and my dad and wrapped them up in a box. The card had a poem on it. I forget exactly what it said, but on the front, the last line said, "blah blah blah... but I hope you can say..." Then they opened the card and it said in big letters all across, "you're happiest to know you have a GRANDCHILD on the way!" and I'm pretty sure I added a smiley face. I had them open this at the same time and made sure they were right on key together. To say they were excited doesn't do their reactions justice.. especially mom's. I believe her first words were, "are you serious???" ( to that, my sarcastic side so badly wanted to respond with "nope.. just kidding.. merry Christmas) followed closely by, "I have to get on Facebook", which I immediately shot down. She then hugged Trey and told him... get this... that she was so glad he had such strong swimmers. Nice mum :) Ohhhhh gotta love her. My dad was a little less vocal, but gave me a huge hug and shook Trey's hand. He later in the day was playing Wii and got a high score with something, darts I believe, and put his name in as Grampy <3 Since my mom was not allowed to tell anyone yet, she told the refrigerator repair man (becuase the it broke in the middle of the night Christmas EVE), the 17 year old male Walmart cashier, and the Walmart greeter. And her sisters without permission ;) I can't blame her.

The next day we went to his parents house. We printed out a picture of my beautiful positive test and put it in a Xmas bag covered with tissue paper. We set it on their kitchen table and waited for them to notice it. I told them Santa must have gotten confused because he left them a gift under our Christmas tree. They opened it together and his step mom (she's more like a plain ol' mom so I'm leaving step out in the future) was a little confused as to what the picture was. His dad said, "I think that's their way of letting us know we have another grandchild on the way". There was more excitement, hugs, and squeals going on there and before I could say anything she had her whole family on the phone as well! It's going to be an interesting Christmas at their house next year, if we get to go, that's for sure! Trey's sister is due in just a few weeks so there will be 2 babies next year! Hopefully and boy and a girl (she's having a girl) :)

Thank you all SO SO much for all of your supportive comments yesterday. Each and every one put a great big smile on my face! I can't wait to share this journey with you!

January 5, 2010

The Day I Made My Big Announcement

I have been bursting at the seams to come out with this news to you all for a couple weeks now and I CANNOT hold it in any longer. Ready? Are you sure??

















That’s right… I am 6 weeks (and today.. 2 days) pregnant!! I know, I know, it’s so early to make an announcement like this, but Trey and I are just sooo soo soooooooooo excited. Most of our family knows along with most of our friends *ALTHOUGH NO ONE IS ALLOWED TO TALK ABOUT IT ON FACEBOOK* and because I use this blog as my journal, clearly I’m going to want to look back on this. Yes, I guess I could just write in one for only myself to see, but what fun is that??? I do know the risks that go along with telling people so early, but I refuse to think about that. I’m staying very positive. Plus, if anything did happen, I wouldn’t be able to hide that on here anyways.

So there you have it. I wanted to let it out about 50 times in my 2009 survey I did yesterday. We are so excited to start this new chapter in our lives. Our due date is August 29th and we can’t wait to me him/her.

As a disclaimer, this blog will in all likeliness turn into pregnancy and baby talk for the majority of the next 8 months... who am I kidding.. And for the rest of my child’s life. I hope you don’t mind and hope I don’t lose any readers, but the fact is… this is all that’s on my mind for now!

January 4, 2010

A Look Back

2009!!

1. What did you do in 2009 that you’d never done before? Let's see where do I even begin? Became an Army Wife for one.. that's new. Took road trips by myself. Checked into and stayed at a hotel by myself. Organized a move. Lived alone. Moved far away from family. Volunteered. It was a big year for me!
2. Did you keep your New Year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year? I'm pretty sure my resolution was to lose weight and that I did. I'm not making any this year. I'm on resolution strike.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth? One of my best friends did and many more will soon!
4. Did anyone close to you die? Unfortunately yes, my grandmother who I was very very close to passed away in August.
5. What places did you visit? Columbus, GA - Charleston, SC - my home town in Massachusetts - OKC - back home to Columbia, SC for the holidays
6. What would you like to have in 2010 that you lacked in 2009? stability. but with an upcoming move I don't see that happening.. eehhh.. what's the fun in stability anyways right?
7. What dates from 2009 will remain etched upon your memory, and why? May 2nd.. being reunited with my husband after the months of basic training. 4th of July... visiting him at Ft Benning and watching the fireworks together. August 27th... seeing him graduate OCS and attempting to pin his 2LT bar on him. I don't remember the date, but my "first" last day at the office (those people mean more to me than they probably should and it was very hard to leave.. but then they kept bringing me back so we got used to the goodbyes) and finally Sept 26th.. the day I moved away from my family. Traumatic to say the least.
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year? I would have to say driving from SC to OK by myself and making it there with no horror stories.
9. What was your biggest failure? hmm.. there are a few. I slipped a couple times while trying to figure out this new life. But who doesn't. What matters is that I picked myself back up.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury? No, actually I think it was the healthiest year I've had in a long time.
11. What was the best thing you bought? Nothing is coming to mind! Our new couch?
12. Whose behavior merited celebration? Trey's. I've seen him grow so much this year. And volunteering to fight for your country.. that deserves a little celebration I think!
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed? I don't have an answer for this one. Only my own behavior would be able to depress me.
14. Where did most of your money go? Sadly.. probably food and entertainment.
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?Seeing Trey for the first time after his BCT was through.
16. What song will always remind you of 2009? Halo by Beyonce. Say what you will.. I LOVED that song.
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:a) happier or sadder? Ohh much much happier!! I was just getting ready to go through a million changes this time last year. Now I've been through them and am enjoying the outcome. b) thinner or fatter? Bad question to ask right now, but thinner thankfully! c) richer or poorer? Richer definitely! I didn't even realize how close we were to dreadfully poor!
18. What do you wish you’d done more of? I wish I'd spent more time with my family when I needed to.
19. What do you wish you’d done less of? Worrying!!!
20. How did you spend Christmas in 2009? In SC visiting family and friends
21. Did you fall in love in 2009? As cliche and corny as it sounds - even more so.
22. What was your favorite TV program? hard to chose just one but either Army Wives or Desperate Housewives.
23. What did you do for your birthday in 2009? I was husbandless for my birthday so my wonderful girlfriends came over and we had dinner and watched movies.
24. What was the best book you read? Handle with Care by Jodi Picoult
25. What did you want and get? a single cup coffee maker and *boooyyaaaa* got it for Christmas. Also one other thing.
26. What did you want and not get? to be stationed at Ft. Stewart.
27. What was your favorite film of this year? There aren't even any contenders with this one... The Blind Side. Law Abiding Citizens was pretty cool too but doesn't even compare.
28. Did you make some new friends this year? Thankfully I did meet some great girls out here! I would have been a big ball of depression without them and will be sad to split up this spring/summer.
29.What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying? wine?? Just kidding.. kind of.
30. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2009? Ha.. non existent? I mean I do well for myself but I'm definitely comfortable at all times!
31. What kept you sane? my parents and Bethie and work believe it or not
32. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most? Ellen.. love that woman
33. What political issue stirred you the most? it takes a lot to rattle me but I'm going with the Ft. Hood incident (I hate using the word incident for this.. it's so much more.. but couldn't think of what I was trying to say) I don't know if that can be considered a political issue, but that day just really got to me.
34. Who did you miss? My family and friends in SC
35. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2009. hmmm.. don't lose focus on the things that matter. Don't worry about things you can't control. Remember that God knows what he's doing with you. Trust Him.

January 3, 2010

No Place Like Home -Part 2-

The second half of our trip was spent much like the first.. spending as much time possible with as many people as we could.
The day after Christmas we went to a baby shower for our friends Brandon and Emily (you were introduced to them yesterday). They are having a little girl whose name will be Reece and are due on March 17th.. St. Patty's Day! It was a fun night.. very relaxed... the majority of our friends all together again.. and lots of pizza. All factors add up to a good time!

On the 31st, we left to come back home. It was hard leaving my family again. I was already crying as we were driving away, but as we were passing the house, I looked over and saw my dad and brother waving out the window which made the tears flow even more so! It's just not easy at all for me to be away from them! I do have to say though, as we got closer to our home away from home (back here) I got more and more excited. It was good to be back. It felt great to be back in our apartment and sleep in our bed again, and it'll be good to get back in a routine. And I SO have been enjoying our new coffee maker <3 This weekend was full of spending time with our friends here which has helped immensely. I cannot express how much my friends mean to me... on both sides of the country!

Trey and I didn't get to see the ball drop this year, as we were sound asleep 2 hours before. Life is changing.. all for the better! I'm excited about this new year and new decade. I'm not making any resolutions for once. I just plan on taking a lot of time to reflect on the changes I want to make within myself and to carry those changes out. Nothing physical, although I do want to be healthier...not so I can fit into those size 4 jeans... so I can feel wonderful about myself.

January 2, 2010

No Place Like Home

Why oh why does time have to go by so quickly?? I had such a great time over the past 2 weeks, but it sure did feel like it only lasted 5 minutes! Needless to say we enjoyed every minute of our time back home with family and friends. I'll sum it up the best I can without making this a 10 page post.. it's a pretty daunting task coming back after being away for so long...

We left in the very weeee hours on Sat. the 19th. They didn't let us leave at midnight after all, but could sign out at 5. So that's exactly what we did and drove straight through.. and didn't get home until a little after midnight. Will NEVER do that again no matter how anxious I am. It's a wonder I didn't throw myself out of the car and out onto the highway. But the welcome of my family after they stayed up waiting for us - made it MORE than worth it.

We got up verrry late Sunday morning and started preparations for the 1:00 Patriots game. Our friends Brandon and Emily came over to watch with us. We feasted on my mum's own little rendition of one of Olive Garden's soups (the one with the crumbled sausage and potatoes.. I forget the name) and some sloppy joes.

My dad, Brandon, and Trey. And of course Cayce hanging out with the boysThe next couple of days went by in a big *wonderful* blur. Monday was a full day with my SIL. We did some shopping, eating, pampering, and I went with her to one of her now weekly doctors appointments until the baby is due. Monday night was dinner at Za's with some of my favorite girls from work. It was great catching up with them. Tuesday, I had lunch with my old bosses from work which held plenty of laughs. They are a mess.. I don't really know what else to say about them! Trey's grandfather came in so he spent the day with him and his dad. Tuesday night we met with our good good friends Chris and Julianne. It was the first time I got to meet Mr. Mason, they're alllmost 3 month old little boy!There he is! This is NOT mama, but it's the only picture I snapped of him. I really didn't take too many pictures. Was too busy soaking up every minute!

Wednesday I saw everyone at my old office for lunch (see a theme here? food?) then went home to bake cookies with mum all day. We did pretty dern good for ourselves and I must say I think I'm the best cookies baking assistant there ever was. I don't know how she manages without me ;) Christmas Eve was spent with Trey's family. A nice laid back day and I'll just let the pictures speak for themselves: My very pregnant SIL and MIL

Trey with his crazy grandfather.
We spent Christmas Day at my parents house. We got up early, opened presents (I'm soo happy that Santa thought I was a good enough girl to give me our single cup coffee maker.. it's already been put to great use), and very unhealthy egg sandwiches that may or may not have been cooked in bacon grease :\ and played lots of Wii darts and shuffleboard. I'll just say my dad and I are a power house and are an unbeatable team. I didn't take many pictures at all...

Cayce sniffs out her gift every year!

I am about picture uploaded out so I think I'll save the rest for tomorrow. Plus, if I sit around in my PJ's while Trey is being over-productive, I'll start to feel really bad.

I've been reading through every one's posts all this time and it sounds like everyone had a great Christmas and New Years! I'll get back to commenting soon. I will say we had a very calm, great New Years Eve. I'm very excited for what this new year has in store for us!!